Mid-Plains
Community College students received resume assistance from Amy Sabatka, 
career placement coordinator, Thursday morning in MPCC’s Learning 
Commons in North Platte.


The
college’s Career Services department offered a similar free resume workshop in McCook to assist students and members of the public in the 
job search process.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680204471398.png" alt="Pictured from left MPCC students Gaby Dowling and Lily Zheng, both of North Platte, and Amy Sabatka." />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left MPCC students Gaby Dowling and Lily Zheng, both of North Platte, and Amy Sabatka.</figcaption>
 </figure>MPCCMid-Plains
Community College students received resume assistance from Amy Sabatka, 
career placement coordinator, Thursday morning in MPCC’s Learning 
Commons in North Platte.
The
college’s Career Services department offered a similar free resume workshop in McCook to assist students and members of the public in the 
job search process.

Mid-Plains CC Career Services hosts resume workshops

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY JAILNo New Arrests***KEITH COUNTY JAILNo New Arrests***BUFFALO COUN TY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677411132090.jpeg" alt="Haylee Swearingen - Disorderly Conduct" />
 <figcaption>Haylee Swearingen - Disorderly Conduct</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680430711125.png" alt="Ruben Morin Jr - Domestic Assault 3rd Degree, Assault by Strangulation or Suffocation" />
 <figcaption>Ruben Morin Jr - Domestic Assault 3rd Degree, Assault by Strangulation or Suffocation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680430734230.png" alt="Vincent Lopez Tidmore - Theft by Shoplifting $0-$500, Theft by Unlawful Taking $501-$1,499, Unauthorized use financial transaction device $1,500-$5,000" />
 <figcaption>Vincent Lopez Tidmore - Theft by Shoplifting $0-$500, Theft by Unlawful Taking $501-$1,499, Unauthorized use financial transaction device $1,500-$5,000</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680430748940.png" alt="Monica Martha Allen - Unauthorized Use Financial Transaction Device Under $500, Unauthorized Use Financial Transaction Device $1,500-$5,000, Possession of Controlled Substance, False Reporting, Fugitive from Justice (x2)" />
 <figcaption>Monica Martha Allen - Unauthorized Use Financial Transaction Device Under $500, Unauthorized Use Financial Transaction Device $1,500-$5,000, Possession of Controlled Substance, False Reporting, Fugitive from Justice (x2)</figcaption>
 </figure>***<div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2> 

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to admin@northplattepost.com. </div>

The Hot Sheets: April 2, 2023

Illicit drugs are harming and killing Nebraskans in communities across our state'

KEARNEY — As drug trends change and overdose incidents increase across the country, law enforcement partners continue working to counter the threat to Nebraska communities through enforcement and education. That ongoing partnership was on display for law enforcement agencies and county attorneys during this week’s second annual Nebraska Drug Forum, held in Kearney.

Last year, methamphetamine was the primary focus of the Nebraska Drug Forum. This year, attendees received additional training on a broad range of drug-related topics. More than 150 investigators, prosecutors, and representatives from law enforcement agencies attended the two-day forum.

“Illicit drugs are harming and killing Nebraskans in communities across our state. Having&nbsp;our local, state, and federal agencies&nbsp;work together and share resources is a critical part of the strategic response.&nbsp;This year’s forum—with record-setting attendance that brought together police departments, sheriffs, county attorneys, postal inspectors, the state patrol, the FBI, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the DEA—was an important step in our coordinated effort to keep Nebraskans safe,”&nbsp;stated Attorney General Mike Hilgers.

Recent DEA laboratory testing reveals that 6 out of 10 fentanyl-laced pills now contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl. That is an increase over the rate of 4 out of 10 that tested positive for potentially lethal doses last year.&nbsp;

“Fentanyl and methamphetamine are the top two drug threats facing Nebraskans,” DEA Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Justin C. King said. “Through the collaborative efforts of our state, local, federal, and tribal partners, we’re raising awareness to the dangers of these substances and working together to remove the individuals responsible for bringing these potentially lethal substances into our communities.”

“The FBI is dedicated to working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Nebraska to disrupt and dismantle criminal drug trafficking organizations.&nbsp;

The trafficking of illegal drugs is not a victimless crime. We&nbsp;remain committed to&nbsp;leveraging our task forces to&nbsp;target the most prolific traffickers, and tracing back the source of supply to identify where the drugs are coming from. Like all of our partners, we will not stand idly by and watch our neighborhoods suffer from the influx of drugs and the violence that comes with it,"&nbsp;said FBI Special Agent in Charge Gene Kowel.

“The Nebraska Informational Analysis Center has an important role to play in connecting the dots between agencies,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our NIAC crime analysts are able to review information from a local narcotics case&nbsp;and potentially make connections that may lead to larger investigations, including our federal law enforcement partners.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680122530887.jpeg" alt="Nebraska Attorney General Hilgers" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Attorney General Hilgers</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Illicit drugs are harming and killing Nebraskans in communities across our state'</h2>Office of the Attorney GeneralKEARNEY — As drug trends change and overdose incidents increase across the country, law enforcement partners continue working to counter the threat to Nebraska communities through enforcement and education. That ongoing partnership was on display for law enforcement agencies and county attorneys during this week’s second annual Nebraska Drug Forum, held in Kearney.Last year, methamphetamine was the primary focus of the Nebraska Drug Forum. This year, attendees received additional training on a broad range of drug-related topics. More than 150 investigators, prosecutors, and representatives from law enforcement agencies attended the two-day forum.“Illicit drugs are harming and killing Nebraskans in communities across our state. Having&nbsp;our local, state, and federal agencies&nbsp;work together and share resources is a critical part of the strategic response.&nbsp;This year’s forum—with record-setting attendance that brought together police departments, sheriffs, county attorneys, postal inspectors, the state patrol, the FBI, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the DEA—was an important step in our coordinated effort to keep Nebraskans safe,”&nbsp;stated Attorney General Mike Hilgers.Recent DEA laboratory testing reveals that 6 out of 10 fentanyl-laced pills now contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl. That is an increase over the rate of 4 out of 10 that tested positive for potentially lethal doses last year.&nbsp;“Fentanyl and methamphetamine are the top two drug threats facing Nebraskans,” DEA Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Justin C. King said. “Through the collaborative efforts of our state, local, federal, and tribal partners, we’re raising awareness to the dangers of these substances and working together to remove the individuals responsible for bringing these potentially lethal substances into our communities.”“The FBI is dedicated to working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Nebraska to disrupt and dismantle criminal drug trafficking organizations.&nbsp;The trafficking of illegal drugs is not a victimless crime. We&nbsp;remain committed to&nbsp;leveraging our task forces to&nbsp;target the most prolific traffickers, and tracing back the source of supply to identify where the drugs are coming from. Like all of our partners, we will not stand idly by and watch our neighborhoods suffer from the influx of drugs and the violence that comes with it,"&nbsp;said FBI Special Agent in Charge Gene Kowel.“The Nebraska Informational Analysis Center has an important role to play in connecting the dots between agencies,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our NIAC crime analysts are able to review information from a local narcotics case&nbsp;and potentially make connections that may lead to larger investigations, including our federal law enforcement partners.”

Neb. law enforcement partners host second annual Nebraska Drug Forum

Area businesses will have the opportunity this spring to learn how to use Handshake to find prospective employees.&nbsp;

Mid-Plains Community College will offer a free Handshake 101 for Employers class at all of its campus locations beginning in April.

Handshake is the official early talent recruiting platform where employers, early talent and colleges connect in one place. Handshake employer partners can proactively search and engage with over six million students and recent alumni whose profiles have been verified by their college career centers.

“Handshake’s mission is to help every student find a great job, no matter who they are or where they go to school,” said Amy Sabatka, MPCC career placement coordinator. “It does that by building a network connecting colleges and employers from across the country on a single network. Employers can now easily post jobs to multiple schools, instead of being constrained by time and resources to only recruit from a small pool of elite universities.”

Sabatka will serve as the instructor for the classes MPCC is offering. Among other things, she will explain what sets Handshake apart from other job sites such as Indeed and LinkedIn.

“Our career office is partnered directly with Handshake, meaning we can use Handshake not only for job postings but also career events, appointments and more,” Sabatka said. “We have access to tools and data to help guide students through a better experience on Handshake.”

Classes are scheduled at the following times and locations:

MPCC Imperial Campus – 10:30-11:30 a.m. (MDT) April 25 MPCC Ogallala Campus – noon to 1 p.m. (MDT) May 2 MPCC Broken Bow Campus – noon to 1 p.m. (CDT) May 10 North Platte Community College North Campus, Room 202, W.W. Wood Building – noon to 1 p.m. (CDT) May 17 MPCC Valentine Campus – noon to 1 p.m. (CDT) May 24 McCook Community College, Room 213, McMillen Hall – noon to 1 p.m., May 3&nbsp;

Participants are asked to bring their own computers to the class. Lunch will be provided at each location.

Registration is required by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:smeltzerj@mpcc.edu">smeltzerj@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or contacting any community campus coordinator.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680022302376.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER JOHNSON MPCCArea businesses will have the opportunity this spring to learn how to use Handshake to find prospective employees.&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College will offer a free Handshake 101 for Employers class at all of its campus locations beginning in April.Handshake is the official early talent recruiting platform where employers, early talent and colleges connect in one place. Handshake employer partners can proactively search and engage with over six million students and recent alumni whose profiles have been verified by their college career centers.“Handshake’s mission is to help every student find a great job, no matter who they are or where they go to school,” said Amy Sabatka, MPCC career placement coordinator. “It does that by building a network connecting colleges and employers from across the country on a single network. Employers can now easily post jobs to multiple schools, instead of being constrained by time and resources to only recruit from a small pool of elite universities.”Sabatka will serve as the instructor for the classes MPCC is offering. Among other things, she will explain what sets Handshake apart from other job sites such as Indeed and LinkedIn.“Our career office is partnered directly with Handshake, meaning we can use Handshake not only for job postings but also career events, appointments and more,” Sabatka said. “We have access to tools and data to help guide students through a better experience on Handshake.”Classes are scheduled at the following times and locations:MPCC Imperial Campus – 10:30-11:30 a.m. (MDT) April 25 MPCC Ogallala Campus – noon to 1 p.m. (MDT) May 2 MPCC Broken Bow Campus – noon to 1 p.m. (CDT) May 10 North Platte Community College North Campus, Room 202, W.W. Wood Building – noon to 1 p.m. (CDT) May 17 MPCC Valentine Campus – noon to 1 p.m. (CDT) May 24 McCook Community College, Room 213, McMillen Hall – noon to 1 p.m., May 3&nbsp;Participants are asked to bring their own computers to the class. Lunch will be provided at each location.Registration is required by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:smeltzerj@mpcc.edu">smeltzerj@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or contacting any community campus coordinator.

MPCC to offer Handshake classes for area businesses

Patrick Michael Way, 41, North Platte and Tina Jean Holm, 48, North Platte

Jayden James Annable, 18, Ogallala and Cienna Valerie Thode, 17, Otis Colorado

Austin Carl Hanson, 24, North Platte and Makayla Elizabeth Harwager, 21, North Platte

Tyler Jay Staats, 24, North Platte and Samantha Renae Fhuere, 26, North Platte

Grant Lee Woods Jr, 49, North Platte and Elizabeth Meliva Hutches, 46, Holyoke Colorado

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629547311305.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patrick Michael Way, 41, North Platte and Tina Jean Holm, 48, North PlatteJayden James Annable, 18, Ogallala and Cienna Valerie Thode, 17, Otis ColoradoAustin Carl Hanson, 24, North Platte and Makayla Elizabeth Harwager, 21, North PlatteTyler Jay Staats, 24, North Platte and Samantha Renae Fhuere, 26, North PlatteGrant Lee Woods Jr, 49, North Platte and Elizabeth Meliva Hutches, 46, Holyoke Colorado

Lincoln County marriage licenses

NPPS Mobile Food Pantry Tuesday, April 11th North Platte High School, 1220 W. Second 1 p.m. until food is distributed

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679937555654.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NPPS Mobile Food Pantry Tuesday, April 11th North Platte High School, 1220 W. Second 1 p.m. until food is distributed

North Platte schools host mobile food pantry this week

LINCOLN Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Milford woman following a hit-and-run crash on Interstate 80 overnight.

Just before midnight Saturday, NSP was notified of a hit-and-run crash that had occurred on Interstate 80 near mile marker 391. The incident reportedly involved a sedan driving eastbound in the westbound lanes, causing a collision between a Ford Eco Sport and a semi. Minutes later, a trooper located two additional vehicles that appeared to have been involved in a crash near mile marker 397.&nbsp;

The trooper identified one those vehicles, a Kia Spectra, as the vehicle reportedly involved in the previous crash. The trooper also observed the driver to be impaired. The driver was placed in custody as troopers investigated both crashes, with assistance from Seward and Lancaster County Sheriff’s deputies.

The driver of the Kia and the driver of the Ford involved in the first crash were both transported to Bryan Health Center West Campus with minor injuries. While at the hospital, the driver of the Kia, identified as Heather Teschendorf, 34, of Milford, spit on a trooper’s face and was physically combative.

Following medical clearance, Teschendorf, was lodged in Lancaster County Jail for driving under the influence, willful reckless driving, leaving the scene of a crash, assault on a public safety officer with bodily fluid, failure to submit to a pretest, and resisting arrest.

NSPLINCOLN Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Milford woman following a hit-and-run crash on Interstate 80 overnight.Just before midnight Saturday, NSP was notified of a hit-and-run crash that had occurred on Interstate 80 near mile marker 391. The incident reportedly involved a sedan driving eastbound in the westbound lanes, causing a collision between a Ford Eco Sport and a semi. Minutes later, a trooper located two additional vehicles that appeared to have been involved in a crash near mile marker 397.&nbsp;The trooper identified one those vehicles, a Kia Spectra, as the vehicle reportedly involved in the previous crash. The trooper also observed the driver to be impaired. The driver was placed in custody as troopers investigated both crashes, with assistance from Seward and Lancaster County Sheriff’s deputies.The driver of the Kia and the driver of the Ford involved in the first crash were both transported to Bryan Health Center West Campus with minor injuries. While at the hospital, the driver of the Kia, identified as Heather Teschendorf, 34, of Milford, spit on a trooper’s face and was physically combative.Following medical clearance, Teschendorf, was lodged in Lancaster County Jail for driving under the influence, willful reckless driving, leaving the scene of a crash, assault on a public safety officer with bodily fluid, failure to submit to a pretest, and resisting arrest.

Milford woman arrested after alleged hit-and-run, spitting on trooper

This week, I gave my U.S. Senate Maiden Speech –&nbsp;a long-held tradition for freshman senators to highlight their priorities in an inaugural speech on the Senate floor. The first time I entered the U.S. Senate chamber, I got chills. The chamber and the&nbsp;Capitol building represent the values we’ve held for nearly two and a half centuries.&nbsp;They&nbsp;represent how exceptional our Republic is.

We must not lose sight of what makes America so exceptional. Our founders threw off the tyranny of a king with an idea;&nbsp;that our rights come to us directly from God – not from a king. Governments are instituted to protect those rights.

Even today, after 246 years, our founding principles are every bit as true. These values – like rule of law, checks and balances, and federalism – are critical to our republic. They've created the greatest nation the world has ever seen. We’re strongest when we follow them. We’re never weaker than when we stray from them.

Our American system unleashes the power of individuals to achieve their full potential. In our country, it doesn't matter where you start. With enough grit and hard work, you can go anywhere. That's why the world wants to come here. That’s why nearly every major innovation and breakthrough comes from America.

The framers of the Constitution also believed that government closest to the people is best able to serve them. It's common sense. What works in New York may not work in Nebraska.&nbsp;Our state has shown America what's possible when the federal government gets out of the way and allows states to lead.

During my time as Governor, we kept the size and scope of government small. We empowered people. We ran government more like a business. We dramatically improved the level of service provided to Nebraska families. We got help to people in need faster than ever before. We made it easier for citizens and businesses to work with the state. We provided billions of dollars in tax relief – including for veterans and seniors by phasing out taxes on their retirement income and Social Security. We attracted new investments and jobs for communities big and small. We employed a record-number of Nebraskans while our state’s unemployment rate reached a historic low.

We made government work better. We proved that we can do a better job of providing services while still controlling our costs. We also proved that we can respect people’s liberty and freedoms while protecting their safety. During the pandemic, we kept kids in school, people at work, and government open.&nbsp;As a result, we were rated the number one best pandemic response state.

All of this reflects Nebraska’s conservative values. In Nebraska, we respect people’s freedom. We value strong communities, faith, and family. We honor our law enforcement and military. We expect a limited, accountable government. We believe in personal responsibility and the boundless potential of the individual.

Nebraska is what America is supposed to be.

But nationally, we’ve strayed from those values.&nbsp;Too many now take our freedoms for granted. Too often we hear resentment rather than reverence for the very principles that make this country great. Too many have forgotten the old adage that a government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.

As your Senator, I will strive to make the federal government work better for the people. I will reject every effort to restrict our liberties and undermine our values. I will work to restore transparency and faith in the federal government. I will work to control spending, curb unnecessary regulation, and limit the size and scope of government. I will work to secure our borders and provide the resources to defend against our enemies. I will work to assure that we have a well-trained, well-led, and&nbsp;well-equipped military to defend us. I will hold this and future administrations accountable to the American people.&nbsp;More importantly,&nbsp;I will always fight for the best interests and freedoms of&nbsp;you,&nbsp;the Nebraskans I serve.

Throughout our history, we have risen to meet every challenge. With our founding values as our guide, we will again rise to meet the challenge of this moment.

&nbsp; Along with my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you.&nbsp;Contact my team and I anytime&nbsp;by phone at 202-224-4224, on my website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov</a>, or via email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:contactricke@ricketts.senate.gov" target="_blank">contactricke@ricketts.senate.gov</a>.&nbsp;I am honored to serve our great state and will continue&nbsp;to&nbsp;work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

By Office of Gov. Pete RickettsThis week, I gave my U.S. Senate Maiden Speech –&nbsp;a long-held tradition for freshman senators to highlight their priorities in an inaugural speech on the Senate floor. The first time I entered the U.S. Senate chamber, I got chills. The chamber and the&nbsp;Capitol building represent the values we’ve held for nearly two and a half centuries.&nbsp;They&nbsp;represent how exceptional our Republic is.We must not lose sight of what makes America so exceptional. Our founders threw off the tyranny of a king with an idea;&nbsp;that our rights come to us directly from God – not from a king. Governments are instituted to protect those rights.Even today, after 246 years, our founding principles are every bit as true. These values – like rule of law, checks and balances, and federalism – are critical to our republic. They've created the greatest nation the world has ever seen. We’re strongest when we follow them. We’re never weaker than when we stray from them.Our American system unleashes the power of individuals to achieve their full potential. In our country, it doesn't matter where you start. With enough grit and hard work, you can go anywhere. That's why the world wants to come here. That’s why nearly every major innovation and breakthrough comes from America.The framers of the Constitution also believed that government closest to the people is best able to serve them. It's common sense. What works in New York may not work in Nebraska.&nbsp;Our state has shown America what's possible when the federal government gets out of the way and allows states to lead.During my time as Governor, we kept the size and scope of government small. We empowered people. We ran government more like a business. We dramatically improved the level of service provided to Nebraska families. We got help to people in need faster than ever before. We made it easier for citizens and businesses to work with the state. We provided billions of dollars in tax relief – including for veterans and seniors by phasing out taxes on their retirement income and Social Security. We attracted new investments and jobs for communities big and small. We employed a record-number of Nebraskans while our state’s unemployment rate reached a historic low.We made government work better. We proved that we can do a better job of providing services while still controlling our costs. We also proved that we can respect people’s liberty and freedoms while protecting their safety. During the pandemic, we kept kids in school, people at work, and government open.&nbsp;As a result, we were rated the number one best pandemic response state.All of this reflects Nebraska’s conservative values. In Nebraska, we respect people’s freedom. We value strong communities, faith, and family. We honor our law enforcement and military. We expect a limited, accountable government. We believe in personal responsibility and the boundless potential of the individual.Nebraska is what America is supposed to be.But nationally, we’ve strayed from those values.&nbsp;Too many now take our freedoms for granted. Too often we hear resentment rather than reverence for the very principles that make this country great. Too many have forgotten the old adage that a government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.As your Senator, I will strive to make the federal government work better for the people. I will reject every effort to restrict our liberties and undermine our values. I will work to restore transparency and faith in the federal government. I will work to control spending, curb unnecessary regulation, and limit the size and scope of government. I will work to secure our borders and provide the resources to defend against our enemies. I will work to assure that we have a well-trained, well-led, and&nbsp;well-equipped military to defend us. I will hold this and future administrations accountable to the American people.&nbsp;More importantly,&nbsp;I will always fight for the best interests and freedoms of&nbsp;you,&nbsp;the Nebraskans I serve.Throughout our history, we have risen to meet every challenge. With our founding values as our guide, we will again rise to meet the challenge of this moment.&nbsp; Along with my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you.&nbsp;Contact my team and I anytime&nbsp;by phone at 202-224-4224, on my website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov</a>, or via email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:contactricke@ricketts.senate.gov" target="_blank">contactricke@ricketts.senate.gov</a>.&nbsp;I am honored to serve our great state and will continue&nbsp;to&nbsp;work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

Sen. Ricketts: Nebraska is what America is supposed to be

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A former high school journalist and the Nebraska High School Press Association sued Friday over a school district's shutdown of the school newspaper after it published an LGBTQ-focused edition.

The federal lawsuit claims Grand Island Northwest Public Schools and its superintendent violated the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment in May when it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gender-identity-nebraska-gay-rights-newspapers-censorship-229d12b873a51cfe5f6eb3a4b9b715f5">closed</a>&nbsp;the Viking Saga newspaper at Grand Island Northwest High School, which has about 700 students. The district later agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-nebraska-gay-rights-newspapers-grand-island-c40f420ba8bf9a6a93a7f5fb1f2499ae">bring the newspaper back</a>&nbsp;in digital form.

“It is hard to find words for what it felt like watching people who were supposed to be supporting our education instead silence us for covering issues impacting our lives,” Marcus Pennell, the former student suing the district, said in a statement. “I was crushed."

An email message left with the school district's superintendent, Jeffrey Edwards, was not immediately returned. Edwards last year called the shutdown “an administrative decision."

Saga newspaper staff were informed of the newspaper’s elimination three days after printing of the June edition, which included an article titled, “Pride and prejudice: LGBTQIA+,” on the origins of Pride Month and the history of homophobia. It also included an editorial opposing a Florida law, dubbed by critics as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-lifestyle-education-florida-ron-desantis-322e0a40da909f48954b8b1bd9190750">“Don’t Say Gay,"</a>&nbsp;that bans some lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity and

A May 22 email from a school employee canceling the paper’s printing services said it was “because the school board and superintendent are unhappy with the last issue’s editorial content.” Some school board members publicly stated their objection to the Saga’s LGBTQ content.

The lawsuit also states that Pennell, who is transgender, was told in March 2022 that he and others could use only names assigned to them at birth in their bylines and that they could not list their pronouns.

The lawsuit seeks a declaration that the district violated the law as well as unspecified damages. Grand Island is a city of about 52,300 residents about 150 miles (241 kilometers) west of Omaha.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680278465498.jpeg" alt="Former Viking Saga student newspaper staff members Marcus Pennell, left, and Emma Smith display a pride flag outside of Northwest High School in Grand Island, Neb., July 20, 2022. A former high school journalist is suing the Nebraska school district that last year shut down the school newspaper after it published an LGBTQ-focused edition. The federal lawsuit filed Friday, March 31, 2023, names Grand Island Northwest Public Schools and its superintendent. It claims the shutdown of the student paper at Northwest High School was unconstitutional. (McKenna Lamoree/The Independent via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>Former Viking Saga student newspaper staff members Marcus Pennell, left, and Emma Smith display a pride flag outside of Northwest High School in Grand Island, Neb., July 20, 2022. A former high school journalist is suing the Nebraska school district that last year shut down the school newspaper after it published an LGBTQ-focused edition. The federal lawsuit filed Friday, March 31, 2023, names Grand Island Northwest Public Schools and its superintendent. It claims the shutdown of the student paper at Northwest High School was unconstitutional. (McKenna Lamoree/The Independent via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A former high school journalist and the Nebraska High School Press Association sued Friday over a school district's shutdown of the school newspaper after it published an LGBTQ-focused edition.The federal lawsuit claims Grand Island Northwest Public Schools and its superintendent violated the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment in May when it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gender-identity-nebraska-gay-rights-newspapers-censorship-229d12b873a51cfe5f6eb3a4b9b715f5">closed</a>&nbsp;the Viking Saga newspaper at Grand Island Northwest High School, which has about 700 students. The district later agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-nebraska-gay-rights-newspapers-grand-island-c40f420ba8bf9a6a93a7f5fb1f2499ae">bring the newspaper back</a>&nbsp;in digital form.“It is hard to find words for what it felt like watching people who were supposed to be supporting our education instead silence us for covering issues impacting our lives,” Marcus Pennell, the former student suing the district, said in a statement. “I was crushed."An email message left with the school district's superintendent, Jeffrey Edwards, was not immediately returned. Edwards last year called the shutdown “an administrative decision."Saga newspaper staff were informed of the newspaper’s elimination three days after printing of the June edition, which included an article titled, “Pride and prejudice: LGBTQIA+,” on the origins of Pride Month and the history of homophobia. It also included an editorial opposing a Florida law, dubbed by critics as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-lifestyle-education-florida-ron-desantis-322e0a40da909f48954b8b1bd9190750">“Don’t Say Gay,"</a>&nbsp;that bans some lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity andA May 22 email from a school employee canceling the paper’s printing services said it was “because the school board and superintendent are unhappy with the last issue’s editorial content.” Some school board members publicly stated their objection to the Saga’s LGBTQ content.The lawsuit also states that Pennell, who is transgender, was told in March 2022 that he and others could use only names assigned to them at birth in their bylines and that they could not list their pronouns.The lawsuit seeks a declaration that the district violated the law as well as unspecified damages. Grand Island is a city of about 52,300 residents about 150 miles (241 kilometers) west of Omaha.

District sued over axing of student paper after LGBTQ issue

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345274044.png" alt="Rolan Gene Brouillette - Disturbing the Peace, Terroristic Threats" />
 <figcaption>Rolan Gene Brouillette - Disturbing the Peace, Terroristic Threats</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345288759.png" alt="Shawn Edward Hobbs - Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Reckless Driving, DUI Liquor (3rd) Over .15" />
 <figcaption>Shawn Edward Hobbs - Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Reckless Driving, DUI Liquor (3rd) Over .15</figcaption>
 </figure>***KEITH COUNTY JAILNo New Arrests***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345361456.png" alt="Brandi Jo Lehman -&nbsp;DEL/DSP/DST/MAN/POS Exceptionally Hazardous Drug" />
 <figcaption>Brandi Jo Lehman -&nbsp;DEL/DSP/DST/MAN/POS Exceptionally Hazardous Drug</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345387381.png" alt="Ricky Laurin Olexo - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Ricky Laurin Olexo - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345403470.png" alt="Melissa Jo Wamsley - DUI .08 (3rd offense)" />
 <figcaption>Melissa Jo Wamsley - DUI .08 (3rd offense)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345416935.png" alt="Morgan D Rapp - Attempt of a Class 1 Misdemeanor" />
 <figcaption>Morgan D Rapp - Attempt of a Class 1 Misdemeanor</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345437484.png" alt="Derek Joseph Standlea - 2nd Degree Assault, 3rd Degree Assault" />
 <figcaption>Derek Joseph Standlea - 2nd Degree Assault, 3rd Degree Assault</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345451774.png" alt="Cole Adam Malone - Probation Sanction" />
 <figcaption>Cole Adam Malone - Probation Sanction</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345468850.png" alt="Chandler Patrick Fletcher - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Chandler Patrick Fletcher - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345483454.png" alt="Andre Antonio Borjon-Marquez - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Andre Antonio Borjon-Marquez - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345497776.png" alt="Blake Edward Nelsen - Contribute to the Delinquency of a Child" />
 <figcaption>Blake Edward Nelsen - Contribute to the Delinquency of a Child</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345511642.png" alt="Payton Michael Reisbeck - Minor in Possession (under 19/1st off)" />
 <figcaption>Payton Michael Reisbeck - Minor in Possession (under 19/1st off)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680345528779.png" alt="Tanner Fabian Lewis - DUI Alcohol (1st offense)" />
 <figcaption>Tanner Fabian Lewis - DUI Alcohol (1st offense)</figcaption>
 </figure>***<div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2> 

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to admin@northplattepost.com. </div>

The Hot Sheets: April 1, 2023

NORTH PLATTE — The North Platte Plainsmen are getting ready to embark on their second season of summer collegiate baseball at historic Bill Wood Field. Chuck and Mayra were in the Post studio last week and visited with Derek Beck about some of the big game days for 2023 and also host families for the summer.&nbsp; 

If you are interested in becoming a host family or wish to learn more about hosting a player, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mayra@northplatteplainsmen.com">mayra@northplatteplainsmen.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Enjoy the Post Podcast brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.npkubota.com/" target="_blank">North Platte Kubota</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="http://www.npkubota.com">Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="http://www.npkubota.com">Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE — The North Platte Plainsmen are getting ready to embark on their second season of summer collegiate baseball at historic Bill Wood Field. Chuck and Mayra were in the Post studio last week and visited with Derek Beck about some of the big game days for 2023 and also host families for the summer.&nbsp; If you are interested in becoming a host family or wish to learn more about hosting a player, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mayra@northplatteplainsmen.com">mayra@northplatteplainsmen.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp; Enjoy the Post Podcast brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.npkubota.com/" target="_blank">North Platte Kubota</a>.<div><iframe title="Plainsmen getting ready for second season in North Platte" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=g6xt7-13cb808-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680044967531.png" alt="Plainsmen 2023 Schedule" />
 <figcaption>Plainsmen 2023 Schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎤 ⚾️ Plainsmen getting ready for second season in North Platte

OGALLALA — The Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department will have the Target Your Health community health fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 13 at 418 Spruce, Ste. A, Ogallala.

For more information or to register for a 15-minute slot, call (308) 345-4223. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680014887306.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OGALLALA — The Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department will have the Target Your Health community health fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 13 at 418 Spruce, Ste. A, Ogallala.For more information or to register for a 15-minute slot, call (308) 345-4223. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Target Your Health community health fair in Ogallala in April

The Keith County Chamber will present the 19th annual Drover Golf Tournament June 3 at Crandall Creek Golf Club in Ogallala and June 4 at Bayside Golf Club in Brule.

The event beings at 11 a.m. June 3 at Crandall Creek, and 9 a.m. June 4 at Bayside.

Registration is limited to 60 teams. For more information or to register, email <a href="mailto:info@explorekeithcounty.com">info@explorekeithcounty.com</a> or call (308) 284-4066.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680014922430.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Keith County Chamber will present the 19th annual Drover Golf Tournament June 3 at Crandall Creek Golf Club in Ogallala and June 4 at Bayside Golf Club in Brule.The event beings at 11 a.m. June 3 at Crandall Creek, and 9 a.m. June 4 at Bayside.Registration is limited to 60 teams. For more information or to register, email <a href="mailto:info@explorekeithcounty.com">info@explorekeithcounty.com</a> or call (308) 284-4066.

19th annual Drover golf tourney scheduled for early June

MCCOOK — Weather permitting, an asphalt overlay project will begin April 3 on
N-25, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.


State maintenance forces will be performing the asphalt overlay at various locations between reference
post 1 to reference post 10, beginning one mile north of the Nebraska/Kansas state line. 

Traffic will be
maintained with a pilot car and flaggers. The work is anticipated to take 10 days to complete.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676658203368.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NDOTMCCOOK — Weather permitting, an asphalt overlay project will begin April 3 on
N-25, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
State maintenance forces will be performing the asphalt overlay at various locations between reference
post 1 to reference post 10, beginning one mile north of the Nebraska/Kansas state line. Traffic will be
maintained with a pilot car and flaggers. The work is anticipated to take 10 days to complete.

Work set to begin on N-25 near Nebraska/Kansas state line

By JOSH FUNK Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. — Americans are renewing their focus on railroad 
safety after a string of recent derailments, especially two fiery ones 
involving hazardous chemicals in <a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">Ohio</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-train-derailment-evacuation-ethanol-fire-73cc3e80f616070806f8f8b35191a616">Minnesota</a> that prompted evacuations.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-transportation-pete-buttigieg-ohio-pennsylvania-f1cd9d79cdd66b1f45d1dcdf1e53ff58">Federal regulators</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">members of Congress</a> are urging railroads to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/derailment-ohio-safety-senate-legislation-brown-vance-82c55dc95aca9524d6ae8e6d01336dbe">do more</a>
 to prevent derailments. They want standards for the trackside detectors
 used to help identify equipment problems, more notice to states about 
hazardous chemicals they are hauling, and at least two people at the 
helm of freight trains.

A Senate bill would toughen the penalty 
for safety violations to up to 1% of a railroad's annual operating 
income and set standards for the maximum length and weight of freight 
trains, which have grown significantly in recent years. Trains now 
routinely stretch beyond two miles (3 kilometers) long.

The <a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-ohio-derailment-hazardous-materials-74d7aec638500c52d1eb9fda0acf9f26">railroads themselves</a>
 say they will take steps that include installing roughly 1,000 more 
trackside detectors. But the industry has a long history of resisting 
new regulations. The Association of American Railroads trade group has 
already spoken out against the crew size rule and requiring 
electronically-controlled brakes.

Railroads are generally regarded as the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">safest way</a>
 to transport hazardous chemicals across land, and statistics show that 
99.9% of those shipments arrive safely. Most derailments don't cause 
major problems, but there are still nearly three a day somewhere in the 
country. Just one derailment involving hazardous chemicals can be 
disastrous.

Regulators established a 
set of safety rules for trains hauling large amounts of crude oil, 
ethanol or other flammable liquids in 2015 after several fiery 
derailments, including one of the worst disasters in railroad history.

In
 2013, the brakes failed on a parked crude oil train in the hills above 
the Canadian town of Lac Megantic. The unmanned train rolled downhill 
and derailed, killing 47 people and causing millions of dollars in 
damage.

Other crude oil crashes, like one that created a massive 
fireball outside the town of Casselton, North Dakota, in 2013, alarmed 
regulators because the number of crude oil shipments had skyrocketed as 
more oil was being produced in areas without many pipelines, like North 
Dakota.

The 2015 rules require railroads to notify states about 
how many flammable liquid trains they expect to transport each week and 
to find the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wv-state-wire-us-news-ap-top-news-montana-international-news-17ff7868111b4ecd9455e42e48ba101a">safest route possible</a> for them. They also establish a maximum speed limit of 50 mph (80 kph).

Neither
 the Ohio or Minnesota trains that derailed were covered by these rules.
 To be considered a high-hazardous flammable train, a train must have 
either a block of 20 or more flammable liquid cars or at least 35 
flammable liquid cars in all.

Lawmakers and regulators have discussed expanding the definition, so more trains would be covered.

Federal
 regulators originally proposed that any high-hazardous flammable train 
would need upgraded electronically-controlled brakes that can stop 
trains more quickly by applying all cars' brakes simultaneously. 
Conventional systems apply air brakes sequentially. But they dropped 
that proposal in 2018 after Congress required them to conduct a detailed
 cost-benefit analysis.

Mike Rush, a senior vice president of 
safety and operations with the AAR trade group, told Federal Railroad 
Administration officials this week that considering electronic brakes 
now would be “a complete waste of time.”

He said the major freight
 railroads spent a decade testing electronic brakes and found only 
limited benefits. Electronic brakes also were prone to breaking down, he
 said.

Since 2015, it has become much more common for railroads to
 use multiple locomotives spread throughout a train. That helps stop 
trains more quickly because the locomotives can send a braking signal at
 once — though likely not as quickly as electronic brakes would.

One
 thing in the 2015 rules was a requirement to upgrade DOT-111 tank cars 
used to haul crude oil and ethanol to make them less likely to leak in a
 derailment. The tank cars involved in Thursday's BNSF derailment in 
Minnesota were upgraded triple-hulled DOT-117 cars, but they still 
ruptured and caught fire.

Since 2015, nearly 48,000 of the newer 
tank cars have been built, and some 41,000 older tank cars have been 
upgraded to meet a 2029 deadline set by Congress. Another 35,000 older 
tank cars need to be upgraded or replaced.

Transportation 
Secretary Pete Buttigieg suggested speeding up those upgrades to 
complete them by 2025 after the Ohio derailment. But the Railway Supply 
Institute, which represents big tank car manufacturers that own most of 
the nation’s tank cars, says that’s not possible because of current 
labor and supply chain shortages.

The ethanol that spilled and caught fire in the Minnesota derailment is less of a concern than the vinyl chloride that was <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">released after the Ohio derailment</a>
 or other toxic chemicals railroads routinely carry, like chlorine gas 
that was released during a 2005 derailment in Graniteville, South 
Carolina, killing nine people and injuring more than 250.

Ethanol is relatively clean burning, but contaminated soil in the area will have to be removed.

The vinyl chloride released from tank cars in Ohio out of fear it might explode is associated with <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-dioxins-environment-0e1b8e6632fe7e0a310eeee965cfd6d1">increased risk of certain cancers</a>. Officials warned when they burned it that <a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-evacuations-ohio-health-climate-and-environment-3f84663f0b97837cc74a8ce9a50ef6c7">two concerning gases</a> — hydrogen chloride and phosgene, which was used as a weapon in World War I — might be released in the process.

That's why so many East Palestine residents <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-contamination-fears-brockovich-fc68b402096a4f5f8598a657f7e399f8">remain concerned</a>
 about potential long-term health impacts even though state and federal 
officials insist they haven't found alarming levels of chemicals in the 
air or water. Norfolk Southern has also been ordered to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-dioxins-environment-0e1b8e6632fe7e0a310eeee965cfd6d1">test for dioxins</a>, which may have been released during the February incineration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678459913884.jpeg" alt="A view of the scene Feb. 24 f of a Norfolk Southern freight train derailment that happened n East Palestine, Ohio. (AP Photo/Matt Freed, file)" />
 <figcaption>A view of the scene Feb. 24 f of a Norfolk Southern freight train derailment that happened n East Palestine, Ohio. (AP Photo/Matt Freed, file)</figcaption>
 </figure> By JOSH FUNK Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. — Americans are renewing their focus on railroad 
safety after a string of recent derailments, especially two fiery ones 
involving hazardous chemicals in <a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">Ohio</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-train-derailment-evacuation-ethanol-fire-73cc3e80f616070806f8f8b35191a616">Minnesota</a> that prompted evacuations.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-transportation-pete-buttigieg-ohio-pennsylvania-f1cd9d79cdd66b1f45d1dcdf1e53ff58">Federal regulators</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">members of Congress</a> are urging railroads to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/derailment-ohio-safety-senate-legislation-brown-vance-82c55dc95aca9524d6ae8e6d01336dbe">do more</a>
 to prevent derailments. They want standards for the trackside detectors
 used to help identify equipment problems, more notice to states about 
hazardous chemicals they are hauling, and at least two people at the 
helm of freight trains.A Senate bill would toughen the penalty 
for safety violations to up to 1% of a railroad's annual operating 
income and set standards for the maximum length and weight of freight 
trains, which have grown significantly in recent years. Trains now 
routinely stretch beyond two miles (3 kilometers) long.The <a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-ohio-derailment-hazardous-materials-74d7aec638500c52d1eb9fda0acf9f26">railroads themselves</a>
 say they will take steps that include installing roughly 1,000 more 
trackside detectors. But the industry has a long history of resisting 
new regulations. The Association of American Railroads trade group has 
already spoken out against the crew size rule and requiring 
electronically-controlled brakes.Railroads are generally regarded as the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">safest way</a>
 to transport hazardous chemicals across land, and statistics show that 
99.9% of those shipments arrive safely. Most derailments don't cause 
major problems, but there are still nearly three a day somewhere in the 
country. Just one derailment involving hazardous chemicals can be 
disastrous.FLAMMABLE TRAIN RULESRegulators established a 
set of safety rules for trains hauling large amounts of crude oil, 
ethanol or other flammable liquids in 2015 after several fiery 
derailments, including one of the worst disasters in railroad history.In
 2013, the brakes failed on a parked crude oil train in the hills above 
the Canadian town of Lac Megantic. The unmanned train rolled downhill 
and derailed, killing 47 people and causing millions of dollars in 
damage.Other crude oil crashes, like one that created a massive 
fireball outside the town of Casselton, North Dakota, in 2013, alarmed 
regulators because the number of crude oil shipments had skyrocketed as 
more oil was being produced in areas without many pipelines, like North 
Dakota.The 2015 rules require railroads to notify states about 
how many flammable liquid trains they expect to transport each week and 
to find the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wv-state-wire-us-news-ap-top-news-montana-international-news-17ff7868111b4ecd9455e42e48ba101a">safest route possible</a> for them. They also establish a maximum speed limit of 50 mph (80 kph).Neither
 the Ohio or Minnesota trains that derailed were covered by these rules.
 To be considered a high-hazardous flammable train, a train must have 
either a block of 20 or more flammable liquid cars or at least 35 
flammable liquid cars in all.Lawmakers and regulators have discussed expanding the definition, so more trains would be covered.ELECTRONIC BRAKESFederal
 regulators originally proposed that any high-hazardous flammable train 
would need upgraded electronically-controlled brakes that can stop 
trains more quickly by applying all cars' brakes simultaneously. 
Conventional systems apply air brakes sequentially. But they dropped 
that proposal in 2018 after Congress required them to conduct a detailed
 cost-benefit analysis.Mike Rush, a senior vice president of 
safety and operations with the AAR trade group, told Federal Railroad 
Administration officials this week that considering electronic brakes 
now would be “a complete waste of time.”He said the major freight
 railroads spent a decade testing electronic brakes and found only 
limited benefits. Electronic brakes also were prone to breaking down, he
 said.Since 2015, it has become much more common for railroads to
 use multiple locomotives spread throughout a train. That helps stop 
trains more quickly because the locomotives can send a braking signal at
 once — though likely not as quickly as electronic brakes would.TANK CAR UPGRADESOne
 thing in the 2015 rules was a requirement to upgrade DOT-111 tank cars 
used to haul crude oil and ethanol to make them less likely to leak in a
 derailment. The tank cars involved in Thursday's BNSF derailment in 
Minnesota were upgraded triple-hulled DOT-117 cars, but they still 
ruptured and caught fire.Since 2015, nearly 48,000 of the newer 
tank cars have been built, and some 41,000 older tank cars have been 
upgraded to meet a 2029 deadline set by Congress. Another 35,000 older 
tank cars need to be upgraded or replaced.Transportation 
Secretary Pete Buttigieg suggested speeding up those upgrades to 
complete them by 2025 after the Ohio derailment. But the Railway Supply 
Institute, which represents big tank car manufacturers that own most of 
the nation’s tank cars, says that’s not possible because of current 
labor and supply chain shortages.CHEMICAL CONCERNSThe ethanol that spilled and caught fire in the Minnesota derailment is less of a concern than the vinyl chloride that was <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">released after the Ohio derailment</a>
 or other toxic chemicals railroads routinely carry, like chlorine gas 
that was released during a 2005 derailment in Graniteville, South 
Carolina, killing nine people and injuring more than 250.Ethanol is relatively clean burning, but contaminated soil in the area will have to be removed.The vinyl chloride released from tank cars in Ohio out of fear it might explode is associated with <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-dioxins-environment-0e1b8e6632fe7e0a310eeee965cfd6d1">increased risk of certain cancers</a>. Officials warned when they burned it that <a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-evacuations-ohio-health-climate-and-environment-3f84663f0b97837cc74a8ce9a50ef6c7">two concerning gases</a> — hydrogen chloride and phosgene, which was used as a weapon in World War I — might be released in the process.That's why so many East Palestine residents <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-contamination-fears-brockovich-fc68b402096a4f5f8598a657f7e399f8">remain concerned</a>
 about potential long-term health impacts even though state and federal 
officials insist they haven't found alarming levels of chemicals in the 
air or water. Norfolk Southern has also been ordered to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-dioxins-environment-0e1b8e6632fe7e0a310eeee965cfd6d1">test for dioxins</a>, which may have been released during the February incineration.

Fiery derailments renew Americans' focus on railroad safety

At Great Plains Health, we live and work by a
single mission: to inspire health and healing by putting the patient first – always. Our
vision is to be the region’s most trusted healthcare community, and it is our privilege to
serve Greater Nebraska as a leader in healthcare and driver of our community’s growth
and workforce. Data from 2022 provides a snapshot into the meaningful impact of Great
Plains Health on the North Platte region.


More information about Great Plains Health’s community giving and grant process is
found on the web <a href="https://www.gphealth.org/about-us/community-impact/great-plains-gives/">HERE</a>.

Beyond financial support, Great Plains Health employees give more than 16,500 hours
to volunteer causes across the region, with organizations that include Community
Connections, Rape and Domestic Abuse Program (RDAP), Guardians of the Children,
Fur the Love of Paws, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity and numerous other
organizations, schools and churches.


As a nonprofit organization, Great Plains Health’s greatest objective is to serve our
community and maintain the independence of healthcare in the region. Great Plains
Health prides itself on local leadership that considers local patient needs and
community insights, which otherwise might not be considered if operated by a larger
healthcare system based in another state.


Great Plains Health is purposeful in making strategic decisions that align with our
Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). As part of the Affordable Care Act, tax-
exempt hospitals are required to complete a CHNA once every three years to identify
the greatest health needs in our community. More information about the current CHNA
report is found on the web <a href="https://www.gphealth.org/about-us/community-impact/great-plains-gives/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679933041640.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Plains HealthAt Great Plains Health, we live and work by a
single mission: to inspire health and healing by putting the patient first – always. Our
vision is to be the region’s most trusted healthcare community, and it is our privilege to
serve Greater Nebraska as a leader in healthcare and driver of our community’s growth
and workforce. Data from 2022 provides a snapshot into the meaningful impact of Great
Plains Health on the North Platte region.
In 2022, Great Plains Health:
<ul>
 <li>Provided nearly $18.1 million in free, uncompensated care to patients.

						</li><li>Contributed more than $2 million to the local economy in utility expenses at its
facilities.

						</li><li>Paid more than $129 million in wages to roughly 1,200 employees who live
and shop in our region.
In the past five years, Great Plains Health has provided $152.7 million in total free care.
Uncompensated care is the amount that a hospital does not get reimbursed due to a
patient not having insurance or the ability to pay for the cost of care. Likewise, Great
Plains Health provided $1.2 million in medication assistance for patients in 2022. More
information about Great Plains Health’s financial assistance program is found on the
web here.
As a non-profit organization, Great Plains Health has a long tradition of improving the
health and well-being of the communities we serve. Whether through partnerships with
local organizations, financial resources or the many hours each year that our employees
and physicians give through volunteering, we strongly believe that we have a corporate
responsibility to help ensure the continued success of the North Platte region. Great
Plains Health has contributed to key local projects in recent years, including:

						</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>500,000 to North Platte Community College’s Health and Science Center

						</li><li>$500,000 toward the Shot in the Arm Housing Incentive

						</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Approximately $120,000 annually to other community causes including the Platte
River Fitness Series, North Platte Trails Network, Mid-Plains United Way, Town
Hall Lecture Series, North Platte Community Playhouse, Prairie Arts Center and
more.
</li>
 </ul>More information about Great Plains Health’s community giving and grant process is
found on the web <a href="https://www.gphealth.org/about-us/community-impact/great-plains-gives/">HERE</a>.
Beyond financial support, Great Plains Health employees give more than 16,500 hours
to volunteer causes across the region, with organizations that include Community
Connections, Rape and Domestic Abuse Program (RDAP), Guardians of the Children,
Fur the Love of Paws, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity and numerous other
organizations, schools and churches.
As a nonprofit organization, Great Plains Health’s greatest objective is to serve our
community and maintain the independence of healthcare in the region. Great Plains
Health prides itself on local leadership that considers local patient needs and
community insights, which otherwise might not be considered if operated by a larger
healthcare system based in another state.
Great Plains Health is purposeful in making strategic decisions that align with our
Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). As part of the Affordable Care Act, tax-
exempt hospitals are required to complete a CHNA once every three years to identify
the greatest health needs in our community. More information about the current CHNA
report is found on the web <a href="https://www.gphealth.org/about-us/community-impact/great-plains-gives/">HERE</a>.

Great Plains Health provides $18.1M in free care in 2022

CURTIS — For over&nbsp; 60 years, the Curtis Easter Pageant has been a annual event held at Medicine Valley High School in Curtis on Palm Sunday. Curtis is Nebraska's official Easter City after all, a designation in 1981 from the Nebraska legislature and then Nebraska Governor Charles Throne. The Living Picture Easter Pageant is this Sunday at 3pm at Medicine Valley High School gymnasium.

The first community Easter Pageant in Curtis was presented on April 4, 1958, at the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis, under the director of the Rev. Frank Hainey and Mrs. Anne Nicklas. It was similar to Passion Plays in Germany and South Dakota.

In 1961 the format was changed to its present form of "Living Pictures." A narration was added to establish the mood and background of each scene and its accompanying choral numbers.

Children were added in 1971 to an additional scene that shows Jesus surrounded by children.

In 1997 three new metal crosses were erected to replace the original wooden cross that had stood on a hill south of Curtis for many years. The center cross is lighted each night during the Christmas and Easter seasons. It is visible for many miles. the crosses are a tribute to the Living Christ and a symbol of Christianity to all that see them.

The Pageant includes 17 scenes of familiar events, famous paintings and statuary. These include The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, Peter Paul Reubens’ Descent From The Cross and The Pieta by Michelangelo.

        The crown of thorns used in the production comes from an original Crown of Thorns plant in Mexico. The helmet, chest plate and leather protector portion of the Roman Soldier uniforms were acquired from MGM Productions and were used in the movies Ben Hur, Julius Caesar and Quo Vadis.

All Scenes have been constructed and painted by local artists. The song "Kyrie" was written by David Cole while he was a student at Medicine Valley High School.

<a href="https://curtiseasterpagean.wixsite.com/website">Read more about the pageant here</a>.

North Platte Post /Curtis Easter PageantCURTIS — For over&nbsp; 60 years, the Curtis Easter Pageant has been a annual event held at Medicine Valley High School in Curtis on Palm Sunday. Curtis is Nebraska's official Easter City after all, a designation in 1981 from the Nebraska legislature and then Nebraska Governor Charles Throne. The Living Picture Easter Pageant is this Sunday at 3pm at Medicine Valley High School gymnasium.(Below is a photo of practice from 2022)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FEasterPageant%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0BuTDv6rCJcurbFctN6eq27WN2zoBHgMJZ16NJRg92gThnsXhkZNANoqPgvdfqkE6l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="486" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The first community Easter Pageant in Curtis was presented on April 4, 1958, at the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis, under the director of the Rev. Frank Hainey and Mrs. Anne Nicklas. It was similar to Passion Plays in Germany and South Dakota.In 1961 the format was changed to its present form of "Living Pictures." A narration was added to establish the mood and background of each scene and its accompanying choral numbers.Children were added in 1971 to an additional scene that shows Jesus surrounded by children.In 1997 three new metal crosses were erected to replace the original wooden cross that had stood on a hill south of Curtis for many years. The center cross is lighted each night during the Christmas and Easter seasons. It is visible for many miles. the crosses are a tribute to the Living Christ and a symbol of Christianity to all that see them.The Pageant includes 17 scenes of familiar events, famous paintings and statuary. These include The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, Peter Paul Reubens’ Descent From The Cross and The Pieta by Michelangelo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680276654973.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> The crown of thorns used in the production comes from an original Crown of Thorns plant in Mexico. The helmet, chest plate and leather protector portion of the Roman Soldier uniforms were acquired from MGM Productions and were used in the movies Ben Hur, Julius Caesar and Quo Vadis.All Scenes have been constructed and painted by local artists. The song "Kyrie" was written by David Cole while he was a student at Medicine Valley High School.<a href="https://curtiseasterpagean.wixsite.com/website">Read more about the pageant here</a>.

Annual Curtis Easter Pageant is Sunday at 3pm

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY JAILNo New Arrests***KEITH COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680257748774.png" alt="Beau Dean Fills Pipe - Terroristic Threats, Tampering with a Publicly Exhibited Contest, Obstructing Government Operations, State Park Regulation, DUI Liquor" />
 <figcaption>Beau Dean Fills Pipe - Terroristic Threats, Tampering with a Publicly Exhibited Contest, Obstructing Government Operations, State Park Regulation, DUI Liquor</figcaption>
 </figure>***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680257799766.png" alt="Brett Allan Osborne - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Brett Allan Osborne - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680257831073.png" alt="Charles William Ray Trew - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Charles William Ray Trew - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680257847167.png" alt="Conrad Originald Brown 2nd - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Conrad Originald Brown 2nd - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680257862799.png" alt="Deontae Edward Brown - Criminal Mischief $0-$500&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Deontae Edward Brown - Criminal Mischief $0-$500&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680257880605.png" alt="Steven Dale Schmidt Jr - Fugitive from Justice, Sexual Assault/Minor-1st degree, Sexual Assault-1st Degree (x2)" />
 <figcaption>Steven Dale Schmidt Jr - Fugitive from Justice, Sexual Assault/Minor-1st degree, Sexual Assault-1st Degree (x2)</figcaption>
 </figure>***<div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2> 

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to admin@northplattepost.com. </div>

The Hot Sheets: March 31, 2023

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p4fEi-BuxTE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho.

🎤 Forward Ever: USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho

North Platte, Ne - Plan to bring your preschool age children to North Platte on Saturday, April 1. North Platte's Communities for Kids program is sponsoring the day long event. It starts in the morning at Madison Middle School with "The String Beans" concert at 10:30am, then ramps up with downtown North Platte blocked off from 1-3pm Saturday afternoon. (See events below) Diane Livingston was in the Post studio earlier this week to talk about the fun that's planned for Saturday. Listen below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="http://www.npkubota.com">Post Podcast sponsored by North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="http://www.npkubota.com">Post Podcast sponsored by North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostNorth Platte, Ne - Plan to bring your preschool age children to North Platte on Saturday, April 1. North Platte's Communities for Kids program is sponsoring the day long event. It starts in the morning at Madison Middle School with "The String Beans" concert at 10:30am, then ramps up with downtown North Platte blocked off from 1-3pm Saturday afternoon. (See events below) Diane Livingston was in the Post studio earlier this week to talk about the fun that's planned for Saturday. Listen below.<div><iframe title="Kids On The Bricks Saturday, a free event for preschool age children" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ufdyz-13cf879-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680282085574.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

🎙️ Kids on The Bricks, free event for preschool age children Saturday in North Platte

LINCOLN — The Nebraska Lottery recently distributed among its beneficiary funds $14,679,553, derived from a share of Scratch and Lotto ticket sales for the previous three months.

A total of $923,596,712 has been distributed in quarterly transfers since the Nebraska Lottery began operation on September 11, 1993. The latest transfer, made the week of March 31, was distributed among beneficiaries in the following manner:

• Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $6,532,401; • Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $6,532,401; • Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $1,467,955; and • Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $146,796.

Amendment 4 passed by Nebraska voters in November 2004 established the following distribution formula: Education as directed by the Legislature (44.5 percent) - currently distributed to the Nebraska Education Improvement Fund; Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund (44.5 percent); Nebraska State Fair (10 percent); and the Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund (1 percent, plus the first $500,000 in fund proceeds each fiscal year).

The funds' respective totals to date are:

• Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $139,154,478; • Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $395,845,800; • Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $69,412,149; and • Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $20,570,971.

Prior to July 1, 2016, the Education Innovation Fund received proceeds totaling $174,222,842, and the Nebraska Opportunity Grant Fund received proceeds totaling $100,929,476.

Prior to July 1, 1997, the Solid Waste Landfill Closure Assistance Fund received proceeds totaling $18,460,996. In 2004, the Legislature directed that a one-time transfer of $5 million be made to the State General Fund.

Criteria for proceeds distribution are established by the beneficiary funds in accordance with legislative mandates. Every county in Nebraska has received service through grants funded with Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

The Nebraska Lottery marked $3.5 billion in total sales (since 1993) in December 2021.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $923 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Nebraska Lottery&nbsp;LINCOLN — The Nebraska Lottery recently distributed among its beneficiary funds $14,679,553, derived from a share of Scratch and Lotto ticket sales for the previous three months.A total of $923,596,712 has been distributed in quarterly transfers since the Nebraska Lottery began operation on September 11, 1993. The latest transfer, made the week of March 31, was distributed among beneficiaries in the following manner:• Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $6,532,401; • Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $6,532,401; • Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $1,467,955; and • Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $146,796.Amendment 4 passed by Nebraska voters in November 2004 established the following distribution formula: Education as directed by the Legislature (44.5 percent) - currently distributed to the Nebraska Education Improvement Fund; Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund (44.5 percent); Nebraska State Fair (10 percent); and the Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund (1 percent, plus the first $500,000 in fund proceeds each fiscal year).The funds' respective totals to date are:• Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $139,154,478; • Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $395,845,800; • Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $69,412,149; and • Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $20,570,971.Prior to July 1, 2016, the Education Innovation Fund received proceeds totaling $174,222,842, and the Nebraska Opportunity Grant Fund received proceeds totaling $100,929,476.Prior to July 1, 1997, the Solid Waste Landfill Closure Assistance Fund received proceeds totaling $18,460,996. In 2004, the Legislature directed that a one-time transfer of $5 million be made to the State General Fund.Criteria for proceeds distribution are established by the beneficiary funds in accordance with legislative mandates. Every county in Nebraska has received service through grants funded with Nebraska Lottery proceeds.The Nebraska Lottery marked $3.5 billion in total sales (since 1993) in December 2021.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $923 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

$14.6M in proceeds raised for Nebraska Lottery beneficiaries

Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;As severe weather season approaches, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) reminds customers to be aware of the dangers of downed powerlines.

Tornadoes can bring down transmission lines typically located in rural areas, but trees damaged by tornadoes or high wind conditions can come down on local distribution lines, creating a power outage to residents in the area. In addition to any power outages these storms may cause, it’s important that customers are aware of the dangers downed powerlines can pose.

"A powerline lying on the ground or over a roadway can charge the ground around it with electricity, potentially causing a fatal situation for anyone getting too close to that line," said NPPD T&amp;D Construction &amp; Maintenance Manager Scott Walz. "It's important to stress that if you see or hear of a downed powerline, to avoid the area and call the local power utility or 911."&nbsp;

If you are in a car and a powerline or power pole has fallen on it,&nbsp;stay in the car&nbsp;until public power utility personnel arrive on the scene. If remaining in the car is not an option due to a fire or other unsafe conditions,&nbsp;jump&nbsp;clear of the vehicle so that you land upright with your feet touching the ground together, and then&nbsp;shuffle away from the area.

Tips on safety precautions during a power outage are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety" target="_blank">https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety</a>.

By NPPDColumbus, Neb. –&nbsp;As severe weather season approaches, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) reminds customers to be aware of the dangers of downed powerlines.Tornadoes can bring down transmission lines typically located in rural areas, but trees damaged by tornadoes or high wind conditions can come down on local distribution lines, creating a power outage to residents in the area. In addition to any power outages these storms may cause, it’s important that customers are aware of the dangers downed powerlines can pose."A powerline lying on the ground or over a roadway can charge the ground around it with electricity, potentially causing a fatal situation for anyone getting too close to that line," said NPPD T&amp;D Construction &amp; Maintenance Manager Scott Walz. "It's important to stress that if you see or hear of a downed powerline, to avoid the area and call the local power utility or 911."&nbsp;If you are in a car and a powerline or power pole has fallen on it,&nbsp;stay in the car&nbsp;until public power utility personnel arrive on the scene. If remaining in the car is not an option due to a fire or other unsafe conditions,&nbsp;jump&nbsp;clear of the vehicle so that you land upright with your feet touching the ground together, and then&nbsp;shuffle away from the area.Tips on safety precautions during a power outage are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety" target="_blank">https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety</a>.

NPPD: Stay clear of downed powerlines during severe weather

The first youth summer sign-up day is scheduled from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. April 11 at the North Platte Recreation Center, 1300 McDonald Road.

There will be approximately 20 organizations at the event to answer questions about summer youth programs.

The event is sponsored by&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College, North Platte Public Schools Foundation, the North Platte Telegraph and the North Platte Recreation Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679940764328.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The first youth summer sign-up day is scheduled from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. April 11 at the North Platte Recreation Center, 1300 McDonald Road.There will be approximately 20 organizations at the event to answer questions about summer youth programs.The event is sponsored by&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College, North Platte Public Schools Foundation, the North Platte Telegraph and the North Platte Recreation Center.

North Platte youth summer sign-up day scheduled in April

GRAND ISLAND&nbsp; — Fourteen troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have been cross-trained by the Nebraska Forest Service as part of the Nebraska Wildland Fire Academy. These troopers are drone pilots stationed throughout the state, many of whom responded to assist at wildfires in 2022.&nbsp;

“As our NSP drone program grew last year, it became a valuable public safety resource at many wildfire responses across the state,” said Captain Jason Scott, Commander of NSP Special Operations. “Adding basic wildland firefighter training for our drone operators adds an important level of safety to their operation. We want to thank the Nebraska Forest Service for providing the training and additional knowledge to our troopers.”

These 14 troopers received Red Card Wildland Fire Training earlier this month. The Nebraska Forest Service offers several levels of training for wildfire response. More information can be found at the&nbsp;<a href="https://nfs.unl.edu/NWFA">Nebraska Forest Service website.</a>

“The Nebraska State Patrol provides a much-needed resource for wildfire suppression in Nebraska,” said State Forester John Erixson. “The information collected by the drones is invaluable for understanding what is happening with the wildfires. Having State Troopers trained in basic wildland firefighting will help keep everyone safe. Folks taught in these classes learn critical skills, including wildfire behavior, firefighting techniques, and how to be safe in a high-risk environment.”

In 2022, NSP troopers flew drone missions in response to wildfires in many parts of Nebraska. In total, troopers flew missions at ten wildfires, often with multiple drone pilots working on different areas of the fire. The drones were able to provide a real-time view of fire activity for firefighters battling the blaze on the ground. NSP also coordinated with the Nebraska National Guard in multiple responses, using drones to pinpoint hotspots which were then doused with a water drop from an aircraft.

As the spring and summer months arrive, NSP and the Nebraska Forest Service remind all Nebraskans to be cognizant of fire danger and the potential for wildfires in dry conditions.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663263228019.png" alt="Smoke rises from a wildfire sparked in 2022 by lightning south of Gering, in Nebraska’s Panhandle. (Courtesy Nebraska State Patrol)" />
 <figcaption>Smoke rises from a wildfire sparked in 2022 by lightning south of Gering, in Nebraska’s Panhandle. (Courtesy Nebraska State Patrol)</figcaption>
 </figure>NSPGRAND ISLAND&nbsp; — Fourteen troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have been cross-trained by the Nebraska Forest Service as part of the Nebraska Wildland Fire Academy. These troopers are drone pilots stationed throughout the state, many of whom responded to assist at wildfires in 2022.&nbsp;“As our NSP drone program grew last year, it became a valuable public safety resource at many wildfire responses across the state,” said Captain Jason Scott, Commander of NSP Special Operations. “Adding basic wildland firefighter training for our drone operators adds an important level of safety to their operation. We want to thank the Nebraska Forest Service for providing the training and additional knowledge to our troopers.”These 14 troopers received Red Card Wildland Fire Training earlier this month. The Nebraska Forest Service offers several levels of training for wildfire response. More information can be found at the&nbsp;<a href="https://nfs.unl.edu/NWFA">Nebraska Forest Service website.</a>“The Nebraska State Patrol provides a much-needed resource for wildfire suppression in Nebraska,” said State Forester John Erixson. “The information collected by the drones is invaluable for understanding what is happening with the wildfires. Having State Troopers trained in basic wildland firefighting will help keep everyone safe. Folks taught in these classes learn critical skills, including wildfire behavior, firefighting techniques, and how to be safe in a high-risk environment.”In 2022, NSP troopers flew drone missions in response to wildfires in many parts of Nebraska. In total, troopers flew missions at ten wildfires, often with multiple drone pilots working on different areas of the fire. The drones were able to provide a real-time view of fire activity for firefighters battling the blaze on the ground. NSP also coordinated with the Nebraska National Guard in multiple responses, using drones to pinpoint hotspots which were then doused with a water drop from an aircraft.As the spring and summer months arrive, NSP and the Nebraska Forest Service remind all Nebraskans to be cognizant of fire danger and the potential for wildfires in dry conditions.&nbsp;

Neb. troopers cross-trained in wildland firefighting

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after voting to end the federal emergency declaration for the COVID-19 pandemic currently in effect under the National Emergencies Act (NEA):

“It makes absolutely no sense that the Biden administration still needs these emergency powers when&nbsp;President Biden himself declared the ‘pandemic is over’&nbsp;last year. When I was Governor,&nbsp;we trusted our people, kept schools and businesses open, and were named the nation’s best state for pandemic response.&nbsp;In Nebraska, we ended our state emergency nearly two years ago. It’s time the Biden administration&nbsp;does&nbsp;the same.”

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after voting to end the federal emergency declaration for the COVID-19 pandemic currently in effect under the National Emergencies Act (NEA):“It makes absolutely no sense that the Biden administration still needs these emergency powers when&nbsp;President Biden himself declared the ‘pandemic is over’&nbsp;last year. When I was Governor,&nbsp;we trusted our people, kept schools and businesses open, and were named the nation’s best state for pandemic response.&nbsp;In Nebraska, we ended our state emergency nearly two years ago. It’s time the Biden administration&nbsp;does&nbsp;the same.”

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