LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol removed from the road 12 impaired drivers as part of a special enforcement effort around St. Patrick’s Day. The campaign, which ran from March 16 through March 18, included numerous law enforcement agencies across the state and entire country.

In total, troopers arrested 12 motorists for driving under the influence. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (144), open alcohol container (9), minor in possession of alcohol (7), driving under suspension (8), no seat belt (3), and improper child restraint (2). Troopers also performed 98 motorist assists during the grant period.

NSP’s effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

As spring arrives and busier travel seasons approach, NSP reminds all motorists to help keep Nebraska roads safe. Always drive sober, follow posted speed limits and traffic safety laws, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt. Troopers will participate in many additional traffic safety initiatives throughout the spring and summer months.&nbsp;

NSPLINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol removed from the road 12 impaired drivers as part of a special enforcement effort around St. Patrick’s Day. The campaign, which ran from March 16 through March 18, included numerous law enforcement agencies across the state and entire country.In total, troopers arrested 12 motorists for driving under the influence. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (144), open alcohol container (9), minor in possession of alcohol (7), driving under suspension (8), no seat belt (3), and improper child restraint (2). Troopers also performed 98 motorist assists during the grant period.NSP’s effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.As spring arrives and busier travel seasons approach, NSP reminds all motorists to help keep Nebraska roads safe. Always drive sober, follow posted speed limits and traffic safety laws, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt. Troopers will participate in many additional traffic safety initiatives throughout the spring and summer months.&nbsp;

Troopers arrest 12 impaired drivers in St. Patrick’s Day Campaign

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers and the Gering Police Department responded to the occurrence of a mountain lion on a security video twice recently.

A mountain lion was recorded on a video in south Gering on March 9, then in a different part of town at 3 a.m. Sunday. It is not known if the animal seen on both videos is the same.

Gering police officers and Game and Parks officers searched the area of Sunday’s incident but could not locate the mountain lion.

According to Game and Parks’ Mountain Lion Response Plan, a mountain lion that is within the limits of a municipality will be killed if it can safely be done, to ensure public safety.

Anyone who observes a mountain lion in person or on video should contact the local police department or Game and Parks immediately.

Game and Parks reminds people that mountain lion attacks are rare. Find more information about Nebraska mountain lions, including the response plan, at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODEzNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YifQ.-zLbox399ui1wMEL0GjolHwGsdtzwcr7_bLuwtzQ1jM/s/497221906/br/156448152617-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

By NGPCNebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers and the Gering Police Department responded to the occurrence of a mountain lion on a security video twice recently.A mountain lion was recorded on a video in south Gering on March 9, then in a different part of town at 3 a.m. Sunday. It is not known if the animal seen on both videos is the same.Gering police officers and Game and Parks officers searched the area of Sunday’s incident but could not locate the mountain lion.According to Game and Parks’ Mountain Lion Response Plan, a mountain lion that is within the limits of a municipality will be killed if it can safely be done, to ensure public safety.Anyone who observes a mountain lion in person or on video should contact the local police department or Game and Parks immediately.Game and Parks reminds people that mountain lion attacks are rare. Find more information about Nebraska mountain lions, including the response plan, at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODEzNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YifQ.-zLbox399ui1wMEL0GjolHwGsdtzwcr7_bLuwtzQ1jM/s/497221906/br/156448152617-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

Game and Parks, Gering PD, respond to mountain lion on video

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post

ALLIANCE — At
 approximately noon Sunday, the Nebraska State Patrol was called 
to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 385 between Chadron and Hemingford. 

"Upon
 arrival, a trooper discovered several bystanders attempting to assist 
those involved in the crash," Nebraska State Patrol Spokesman Cody 
Thomas said. "Preliminary investigation shows that a northbound Pontiac 
Grand Prix lost control while passing another vehicle, overcorrected, 
and struck a southbound GMC Sierra. The driver of the GMC was ejected 
from the vehicle. The driver of the Pontiac was trapped inside the 
vehicle."

Both drivers were transported to Chadron Community Hospital. 

The
 driver of the Pontiac, Autumn Elsen, 19, Gering, was pronounced 
deceased at the hospital. The driver of the GMC, Ross Grant, 47, Alliance, was flown to Regional West Hospital in Scottsbluff for 
additional treatment. 

Seatbelts were not in use in either vehicle, according to reports.

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostALLIANCE — At
 approximately noon Sunday, the Nebraska State Patrol was called 
to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 385 between Chadron and Hemingford. "Upon
 arrival, a trooper discovered several bystanders attempting to assist 
those involved in the crash," Nebraska State Patrol Spokesman Cody 
Thomas said. "Preliminary investigation shows that a northbound Pontiac 
Grand Prix lost control while passing another vehicle, overcorrected, 
and struck a southbound GMC Sierra. The driver of the GMC was ejected 
from the vehicle. The driver of the Pontiac was trapped inside the 
vehicle."Both drivers were transported to Chadron Community Hospital. The
 driver of the Pontiac, Autumn Elsen, 19, Gering, was pronounced 
deceased at the hospital. The driver of the GMC, Ross Grant, 47, Alliance, was flown to Regional West Hospital in Scottsbluff for 
additional treatment. Seatbelts were not in use in either vehicle, according to reports.The crash investigation is ongoing.

Teenager dead after Highway 385 crash in northwest Nebraska

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A new week... and a new lineup for our storm spotter talk! Find out more about what&#39;s covered and see the remainder of this spring&#39;s schedule at <a href="https://t.co/WtnoyMsdBP">https://t.co/WtnoyMsdBP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/newx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#newx</a> <a href="https://t.co/fP3sqxNIci">pic.twitter.com/fP3sqxNIci</a>&mdash; NWS North Platte (@NWSNorthPlatte) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSNorthPlatte/status/1637495395701112832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639597790938.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Storm spotter training will be Tuesday in North Platte

Holyoke, Col - On Sunday, March 19 at approximately 12:23 AM, Officers of the Holyoke Police Department received a request for an agency assist from deputies of the Perkins County Sheriff’s Office who were in a high-speed pursuit entering Colorado. The deputies were chasing a confirmed stolen vehicle out of Commerce City, Colorado and were driving towards the City of Holyoke. 

Officers were able to intercept the suspect vehicle at Highway 23 and County Road 41. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, it fled westbound towards US Highway 385 at approximately 74 miles per hour. During the pursuit, the vehicle was swerving in and out of the opposite lane of travel. Due to the previous reports of high speeds and reckless driving, it was determined that a Tactical Vehicle Intervention maneuver would be employed to bring the pursuit to a safe conclusion before the vehicle could reach the city and endanger the community. As the vehicle approached the intersection of Highway 23 and US Highway 385, it slowed to a safe speed, at which time an officer executed the TVI maneuver causing the vehicle to come to a controlled stop in a field on the west side of US 385. 

Officers were able to apprehend a male party and a female party who are from Fort Lupton, Colorado. As a precaution, both parties were evaluated by Holyoke EMS on scene. The male party was transported to Melissa Memorial Hospital for further evaluation due a pre-existing medical condition. The male party was released without incident at the hospital after it was learned that he was not involved in the theft of the vehicle. The female driver, Christian Quintana, was arrested for 1st Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft, Vehicular Eluding, and Reckless Driving. She is currently being held at the Logan County Jail without bond until she is advised by the courts. She was also charged with additional offenses in Perkins County, Nebraska where the incident originated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Holyoke Police DepartmentHolyoke, Col - On Sunday, March 19 at approximately 12:23 AM, Officers of the Holyoke Police Department received a request for an agency assist from deputies of the Perkins County Sheriff’s Office who were in a high-speed pursuit entering Colorado. The deputies were chasing a confirmed stolen vehicle out of Commerce City, Colorado and were driving towards the City of Holyoke. Officers were able to intercept the suspect vehicle at Highway 23 and County Road 41. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, it fled westbound towards US Highway 385 at approximately 74 miles per hour. During the pursuit, the vehicle was swerving in and out of the opposite lane of travel. Due to the previous reports of high speeds and reckless driving, it was determined that a Tactical Vehicle Intervention maneuver would be employed to bring the pursuit to a safe conclusion before the vehicle could reach the city and endanger the community. As the vehicle approached the intersection of Highway 23 and US Highway 385, it slowed to a safe speed, at which time an officer executed the TVI maneuver causing the vehicle to come to a controlled stop in a field on the west side of US 385. Officers were able to apprehend a male party and a female party who are from Fort Lupton, Colorado. As a precaution, both parties were evaluated by Holyoke EMS on scene. The male party was transported to Melissa Memorial Hospital for further evaluation due a pre-existing medical condition. The male party was released without incident at the hospital after it was learned that he was not involved in the theft of the vehicle. The female driver, Christian Quintana, was arrested for 1st Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft, Vehicular Eluding, and Reckless Driving. She is currently being held at the Logan County Jail without bond until she is advised by the courts. She was also charged with additional offenses in Perkins County, Nebraska where the incident originated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Perkins County high speed pursuit ends in arrest near Holyoke

After a mild Monday, the National Weather Service in North Platte is warning of the potential for a wintry mix to arrive Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

The high Monday is expected to be in the mid-50s, with an overnight low dipping below the freezing point. There is a 20 percent chance of freezing rain before 10 a.m. Tuesday, changing to rain as the mercury rises.

The NWS said the freezing rain could lead to slick road conditions, mostly north of Interstate 80.

Another chance of a rain-snow mix is possible beginning Wednesday afternoon and lasting through Wednesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679320357079.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostAfter a mild Monday, the National Weather Service in North Platte is warning of the potential for a wintry mix to arrive Tuesday morning.&nbsp;The high Monday is expected to be in the mid-50s, with an overnight low dipping below the freezing point. There is a 20 percent chance of freezing rain before 10 a.m. Tuesday, changing to rain as the mercury rises.The NWS said the freezing rain could lead to slick road conditions, mostly north of Interstate 80.Another chance of a rain-snow mix is possible beginning Wednesday afternoon and lasting through Wednesday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wintry precip is possible tonight into tomorrow, starting as freezing rain/drizzle before changing to rain or a rain/snow mix. A glaze of ice is possible, primarily along/north of I-80. Elevated and untreated surfaces may become slick before temps warm in the afternoon. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/uygW9I6SVv">pic.twitter.com/uygW9I6SVv</a>&mdash; NWS North Platte (@NWSNorthPlatte) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSNorthPlatte/status/1637770961532461060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Chance of freezing rain, slick roads on Tuesday in North Platte area

<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/2023/3/1679308133661.png" alt="Thomas Franklin Burger III - Driving Under Revocation" />
 <figcaption>Thomas Franklin Burger III - Driving Under Revocation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679308146928.png" alt="Gavin Adonai Sierks - Contempt of Court (x3)" />
 <figcaption>Gavin Adonai Sierks - Contempt of Court (x3)</figcaption>
 </figure>***KEITH COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679308184315.png" alt="Kenneth Lee Jewell - DUI Liquor (1st offense), Unlawful entry without Park Permit" />
 <figcaption>Kenneth Lee Jewell - DUI Liquor (1st offense), Unlawful entry without Park Permit</figcaption>
 </figure>***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679308301377.png" alt="Alfonzo Ramirez - DUI .15+ or refusal (3 prior conv), Possession/Consumption open alcohol container, city code violation (x2)" />
 <figcaption>Alfonzo Ramirez - DUI .15+ or refusal (3 prior conv), Possession/Consumption open alcohol container, city code violation (x2)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679308318099.png" alt="Micah Daniel Pilgrim - Accessory to a Class 3 or 3A Felony&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Micah Daniel Pilgrim - Accessory to a Class 3 or 3A Felony&nbsp;</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 20, 2023

North Platte Community College students are getting as much out of a local mentoring program as the youth they are serving.

A group of NPCC students have been working with the North Platte Public Schools’ Helping Hands program since last fall.

Through the part-time, paid positions they are responsible for serving as positive role models for elementary students identified through NPPS as having behavioral health needs.

They provide support in the classroom, keep the students on task, assist with coping skills and follow and implement behavior improvement plans. The mentorship is done in the classroom as well as at lunch, recess, physical education periods and after school.

Brandy Buscher, NPPS student services director, and Maggie Butler, NPPS student services coordinator, came up with the idea for Helping Hands after seeing data released by the University of Nebraska Medical Center regarding the shortage of mental health professionals in rural Nebraska.

According to a UNMC report, 88 of Nebraska’s 93 counties are designated as federal mental health professional shortage areas (HPSAs). Eighty counties have a ratio of psychiatrist-to-population that is below the federal HPSA ration of one per 30,000, and 78 counties have no practicing psychiatrists.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“With Helping Hands, we are really trying to ‘grow our own’,” Buscher said. “The thought was that if we could recruit students from the college and make them fall in love with our NPPS family, that hopefully they would keep working with youth and behavioral health needs. We understand that they will probably go on and pursue a higher degree, but hopefully someday they will consider coming back and working for us or at least within the community.”

NPCC psychology instructor Courtney Johnston is in charge of referring college students for Helping Hands. All referrals have to go through a formal hiring process with NPPS that includes submitting an application, an interview and a background check.

Johnston said she’s noticed a huge difference in those selected to be mentors.&nbsp;

“Helping Hands is a great program,” Johnston said. “The college students I have spoken with say being a mentor has been life-changing for them. Not only have they been able to gain work experience that will look great for future employment, but the opportunity has shaped the direction of their lives – from educational interests to career goals.”

Matthew Wright, of North Platte, is an example of that. After graduating from Sutherland High School in 2021, he joined the Army National Guard with intentions of pursuing a career in the military. His plans changed when an illness deferred his deployment.

“I had always heard great things about NPCC, so I decided to enroll there,” Wright said. “I started out studying criminal justice and had made up my mind to transfer to the University of Nebraska Omaha for pre-med when I started taking psychology classes with Courtney. She suggested I apply for the Helping Hands program, and I’m so glad I did.”

He now spends every weekday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. working for NPPS – both through Helping Hands and as part of the Kids Klub after-school program.

“With Helping Hands, I help high-risk students develop coping skills,” Wright said. “Some students are very high energy, so that often means I walk with them in the hallways or do activities to use up some of that energy so they can focus when reimplemented into the classroom. Other times, I sit with them in the classroom to keep them on task.”

Wright serves as a mentor to 12 students. Some he sees multiple times a week, and others, who don’t need as much support, he works with a couple times per week.

“Because I assist children with behavioral issues, the best part has been seeing them graduate out of the program and succeed in everyday life,” Wright said. “It’s such a wonderful feeling. I can’t even explain it.”

It has made a huge difference in what he wants to do with his own life.

“Helping Hands has definitely changed my perspective,” said Wright. “I know it’s a cliché, but the program made me realize that kids are 100 percent of our future. You never meet the same one twice, and when you see them in such different conditions – you want to love them all and support them in every way possible.”

Since joining Helping Hands, Wright has decided to change his focus to developmental psychology and social work. His goal is to obtain bachelor’s and master’s degrees in those fields.

“My ultimate goal is to earn a doctorate then come back and work for North Platte Public Schools,” Wright said. “Hopefully, one day I can achieve a professorship.”

More information about Helping Hands and the opportunities it offers can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppsd.org/">nppsd.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679087436187.jpeg" alt="North Platte Community College student Matthew Wright helps Kids Klub members Sophia Moreno and Serenity Schade build a project with magnets Wednesday during Mega Day at Jefferson Elementary. Wright works for both Kids Klub and Helping Hands." />
 <figcaption>North Platte Community College student Matthew Wright helps Kids Klub members Sophia Moreno and Serenity Schade build a project with magnets Wednesday during Mega Day at Jefferson Elementary. Wright works for both Kids Klub and Helping Hands.</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER JOHNSON MPCCNorth Platte Community College students are getting as much out of a local mentoring program as the youth they are serving.A group of NPCC students have been working with the North Platte Public Schools’ Helping Hands program since last fall.Through the part-time, paid positions they are responsible for serving as positive role models for elementary students identified through NPPS as having behavioral health needs.They provide support in the classroom, keep the students on task, assist with coping skills and follow and implement behavior improvement plans. The mentorship is done in the classroom as well as at lunch, recess, physical education periods and after school.Brandy Buscher, NPPS student services director, and Maggie Butler, NPPS student services coordinator, came up with the idea for Helping Hands after seeing data released by the University of Nebraska Medical Center regarding the shortage of mental health professionals in rural Nebraska.According to a UNMC report, 88 of Nebraska’s 93 counties are designated as federal mental health professional shortage areas (HPSAs). Eighty counties have a ratio of psychiatrist-to-population that is below the federal HPSA ration of one per 30,000, and 78 counties have no practicing psychiatrists.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“With Helping Hands, we are really trying to ‘grow our own’,” Buscher said. “The thought was that if we could recruit students from the college and make them fall in love with our NPPS family, that hopefully they would keep working with youth and behavioral health needs. We understand that they will probably go on and pursue a higher degree, but hopefully someday they will consider coming back and working for us or at least within the community.”NPCC psychology instructor Courtney Johnston is in charge of referring college students for Helping Hands. All referrals have to go through a formal hiring process with NPPS that includes submitting an application, an interview and a background check.Johnston said she’s noticed a huge difference in those selected to be mentors.&nbsp;“Helping Hands is a great program,” Johnston said. “The college students I have spoken with say being a mentor has been life-changing for them. Not only have they been able to gain work experience that will look great for future employment, but the opportunity has shaped the direction of their lives – from educational interests to career goals.”Matthew Wright, of North Platte, is an example of that. After graduating from Sutherland High School in 2021, he joined the Army National Guard with intentions of pursuing a career in the military. His plans changed when an illness deferred his deployment.“I had always heard great things about NPCC, so I decided to enroll there,” Wright said. “I started out studying criminal justice and had made up my mind to transfer to the University of Nebraska Omaha for pre-med when I started taking psychology classes with Courtney. She suggested I apply for the Helping Hands program, and I’m so glad I did.”He now spends every weekday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. working for NPPS – both through Helping Hands and as part of the Kids Klub after-school program.“With Helping Hands, I help high-risk students develop coping skills,” Wright said. “Some students are very high energy, so that often means I walk with them in the hallways or do activities to use up some of that energy so they can focus when reimplemented into the classroom. Other times, I sit with them in the classroom to keep them on task.”Wright serves as a mentor to 12 students. Some he sees multiple times a week, and others, who don’t need as much support, he works with a couple times per week.“Because I assist children with behavioral issues, the best part has been seeing them graduate out of the program and succeed in everyday life,” Wright said. “It’s such a wonderful feeling. I can’t even explain it.”It has made a huge difference in what he wants to do with his own life.“Helping Hands has definitely changed my perspective,” said Wright. “I know it’s a cliché, but the program made me realize that kids are 100 percent of our future. You never meet the same one twice, and when you see them in such different conditions – you want to love them all and support them in every way possible.”Since joining Helping Hands, Wright has decided to change his focus to developmental psychology and social work. His goal is to obtain bachelor’s and master’s degrees in those fields.“My ultimate goal is to earn a doctorate then come back and work for North Platte Public Schools,” Wright said. “Hopefully, one day I can achieve a professorship.”More information about Helping Hands and the opportunities it offers can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppsd.org/">nppsd.org</a>.

North Platte CC students give back through Helping Hands program

By TARA MCCARTHY <a href="https://usacycling.org/article/inaugural-usa-cycling-gravel-national-championship-heads-to-nebraska">USA&nbsp; Cycling</a>

The first 2023 USA Cycling Gravel 
National Championships will take place in Gering on Sept. 
9. The event will have a $60,000 prize purse and serve as an automatic 
qualifier for the UCI Gravel World Championships.

USA
 Cycling has announced that the inaugural Gravel National 
Championships will take place September 9, 2023 in Gering with a 
$60,000 prize purse. The event will remain in Gering for 2024.

“Over
 the last five years, the explosive growth of gravel has energized 
American cycling. Our involvement in the past 18 months has mainly 
focused on the support of gravel event organizers through sanctioning 
events such as the Grasshopper Adventure Series and the Rule of Three. 
We’re now proud to join the list of ever-growing gravel events in the 
United States,” said USA Cycling CEO, Brendan Quirk.

USA Cycling 
is offering a $60,000 prize purse for the Elite races, with an equal pay
 out for Men and Women. This marks the largest single-day cash prize in 
the history of American gravel.

"While this event is a benefit to 
our members and a long-awaited addition to the national championship 
calendar, we’re not using a cent of membership dues to fund the prize 
purse, nor are we diverting funds from grassroots racing programs. 100% 
of the prizes will be funded by entry fees and sponsorship,” said Quirk.

The best names in off-road racing will be gathering in Nebraska, including 2022 LifeTime Grand Prix Champion Keegan Swenson.

“I
 am really looking forward to the USA Cycling Gravel National 
Championships,” said Swenson. “I think gravel has quickly become some of
 the most competitive racing in the U.S., and I cannot wait to give it 
my all in Gering, Neb. in the fight for the first gravel stars and 
stripes jersey.”

With the new addition of the UCI Gravel World 
Championships, the Gravel National Championship will classify as a 
qualifier for the 2023 event held in Venetia, Italy, Oct. 7 and 8. The top
 three in the Elite Men’s and Women’s events will automatically qualify 
for the World Championships and will be supported by USA Cycling. The 
finalized World Championship Elite selection criteria will be published 
in coming weeks. Additionally, age group race winners will automatically
 qualify for their respective categories for the 2023 UCI Gravel World 
Championships.

Last year, Lauren De Crescenzo finished top 20 at 
the inaugural Gravel World Championship, and is now looking forward to 
competing for the National title. 

Gravel racers from around the country will be treated to countless 
miles of dirt roads in Nebraska’s Landmark Country, passing famous rock 
formations such as Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock that 
once served as landmarks for Native Americans and settlers traveling 
west on the Oregon Trail. Racers will experience the area’s beauty as 
they compete on courses with over 90% gravel and they will continue to 
add to local history by racing in the inaugural Gravel National 
Championship.

“On behalf of the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau 
and Scotts Bluff County, we welcome USA Cycling to Gering. This once in a
 lifetime opportunity to host an inaugural Gravel National Championship 
event is a dream come true for our vibrant Western Nebraska community. 
We look forward to building a memorable race that will create strong 
relations with athletes and stakeholders in our sports market. We are 
eager to team up with USA Cycling in 2023-2024,” stated Brenda Leisy, 
Director of the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau.

In addition to 
the support from Scotts Bluff County and Visitors Bureau, Aaron Raines, 
organizer of the Robidoux Rendezvous, will be assisting in yet again 
creating another incredible gravel race in Landmark Country.

“The 
Gering Visitors Bureau and the City of Gering enthusiastically welcome 
the 2023 Gravel National Championships to Gering and Western Nebraska in
 partnership with USA Cycling. Gravel riders and guests will experience a
 welcoming city with an energetic vibe and a rich-historic cycling 
culture. Natural scenic beauty and historic landmarks backdrop the 
challenging gravel courses that come together in a community dedicated 
to hospitality and service to ensure the USA Cycling inaugural event is 
an adventure and a memorable success," said Karla Niedan-Streeks from 
the Gering Visitors Bureau.

To learn more about eligibility and race details, visit <a href="http://gravelnats.usacycling.org/">http://gravelnats.usacycling.org/</a>.

Riders must be USA Cycling members with a domestic racing license to register. Registration will open on Friday, July 14th at 10am MT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679080725129.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TARA MCCARTHY <a href="https://usacycling.org/article/inaugural-usa-cycling-gravel-national-championship-heads-to-nebraska">USA&nbsp; Cycling</a>The first 2023 USA Cycling Gravel 
National Championships will take place in Gering on Sept. 
9. The event will have a $60,000 prize purse and serve as an automatic 
qualifier for the UCI Gravel World Championships.USA
 Cycling has announced that the inaugural Gravel National 
Championships will take place September 9, 2023 in Gering with a 
$60,000 prize purse. The event will remain in Gering for 2024.“Over
 the last five years, the explosive growth of gravel has energized 
American cycling. Our involvement in the past 18 months has mainly 
focused on the support of gravel event organizers through sanctioning 
events such as the Grasshopper Adventure Series and the Rule of Three. 
We’re now proud to join the list of ever-growing gravel events in the 
United States,” said USA Cycling CEO, Brendan Quirk.USA Cycling 
is offering a $60,000 prize purse for the Elite races, with an equal pay
 out for Men and Women. This marks the largest single-day cash prize in 
the history of American gravel."While this event is a benefit to 
our members and a long-awaited addition to the national championship 
calendar, we’re not using a cent of membership dues to fund the prize 
purse, nor are we diverting funds from grassroots racing programs. 100% 
of the prizes will be funded by entry fees and sponsorship,” said Quirk.The best names in off-road racing will be gathering in Nebraska, including 2022 LifeTime Grand Prix Champion Keegan Swenson.“I
 am really looking forward to the USA Cycling Gravel National 
Championships,” said Swenson. “I think gravel has quickly become some of
 the most competitive racing in the U.S., and I cannot wait to give it 
my all in Gering, Neb. in the fight for the first gravel stars and 
stripes jersey.”With the new addition of the UCI Gravel World 
Championships, the Gravel National Championship will classify as a 
qualifier for the 2023 event held in Venetia, Italy, Oct. 7 and 8. The top
 three in the Elite Men’s and Women’s events will automatically qualify 
for the World Championships and will be supported by USA Cycling. The 
finalized World Championship Elite selection criteria will be published 
in coming weeks. Additionally, age group race winners will automatically
 qualify for their respective categories for the 2023 UCI Gravel World 
Championships.Last year, Lauren De Crescenzo finished top 20 at 
the inaugural Gravel World Championship, and is now looking forward to 
competing for the National title. Gravel racers from around the country will be treated to countless 
miles of dirt roads in Nebraska’s Landmark Country, passing famous rock 
formations such as Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock that 
once served as landmarks for Native Americans and settlers traveling 
west on the Oregon Trail. Racers will experience the area’s beauty as 
they compete on courses with over 90% gravel and they will continue to 
add to local history by racing in the inaugural Gravel National 
Championship.“On behalf of the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau 
and Scotts Bluff County, we welcome USA Cycling to Gering. This once in a
 lifetime opportunity to host an inaugural Gravel National Championship 
event is a dream come true for our vibrant Western Nebraska community. 
We look forward to building a memorable race that will create strong 
relations with athletes and stakeholders in our sports market. We are 
eager to team up with USA Cycling in 2023-2024,” stated Brenda Leisy, 
Director of the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau.In addition to 
the support from Scotts Bluff County and Visitors Bureau, Aaron Raines, 
organizer of the Robidoux Rendezvous, will be assisting in yet again 
creating another incredible gravel race in Landmark Country.“The 
Gering Visitors Bureau and the City of Gering enthusiastically welcome 
the 2023 Gravel National Championships to Gering and Western Nebraska in
 partnership with USA Cycling. Gravel riders and guests will experience a
 welcoming city with an energetic vibe and a rich-historic cycling 
culture. Natural scenic beauty and historic landmarks backdrop the 
challenging gravel courses that come together in a community dedicated 
to hospitality and service to ensure the USA Cycling inaugural event is 
an adventure and a memorable success," said Karla Niedan-Streeks from 
the Gering Visitors Bureau.To learn more about eligibility and race details, visit <a href="http://gravelnats.usacycling.org/">http://gravelnats.usacycling.org/</a>.Riders must be USA Cycling members with a domestic racing license to register. Registration will open on Friday, July 14th at 10am MT.

Inaugural Gravel National Championship pedals to Gering

At Tuesday's meeting, the North Platte City Council will consider appointing a new public service director.

After candidate interviews, Mayor Brandon Kelliher has recommended appointing Steve Mentzer to the position. He would replace Layne Groseth, who recently accepted the city administrator position.

The council will also consider realigning the parks and cemetery departments with the recreation and senior center departments. The shift would create the North Platte Parks &amp; Recreation Department.

Kelliher also will recommend Lyle Minshull be appointed to head up the new department.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall. The live stream of the meeting can be found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC8LPJOuQr6A3atE9Wr1bBg/videos?view=2&amp;live_view=502">HERE</a> and the complete agenda <a href="https://www.ci.north-platte.ne.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/03-21-23-Agenda-Book.pdf">HERE</a>.

North Platte PostAt Tuesday's meeting, the North Platte City Council will consider appointing a new public service director.After candidate interviews, Mayor Brandon Kelliher has recommended appointing Steve Mentzer to the position. He would replace Layne Groseth, who recently accepted the city administrator position.The council will also consider realigning the parks and cemetery departments with the recreation and senior center departments. The shift would create the North Platte Parks &amp; Recreation Department.Kelliher also will recommend Lyle Minshull be appointed to head up the new department.The meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall. The live stream of the meeting can be found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC8LPJOuQr6A3atE9Wr1bBg/videos?view=2&amp;live_view=502">HERE</a> and the complete agenda <a href="https://www.ci.north-platte.ne.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/03-21-23-Agenda-Book.pdf">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568208023300.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Public services director, new parks department on NP council agenda

Weather permitting, work will resume Monday on N-97, from
reference post 56+87 to reference post 66+96, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.


Paulsen Inc. of Cozad is the contractor for this project. Work includes constructing asphaltic
curb, concrete flumes, earth shoulder construction, erosion control, and seeding. 

In Mullen, the asphalt
surfacing will be removed and replaced from the junction of N-97 and N-2 to the south for approximately
1,200 feet. Traffic will be maintained with lane closures, a pilot car, and flaggers. A 10-foot width
restriction will be in effect. Anticipated completion is May 2023.


NDOTWeather permitting, work will resume Monday on N-97, from
reference post 56+87 to reference post 66+96, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
Paulsen Inc. of Cozad is the contractor for this project. Work includes constructing asphaltic
curb, concrete flumes, earth shoulder construction, erosion control, and seeding. In Mullen, the asphalt
surfacing will be removed and replaced from the junction of N-97 and N-2 to the south for approximately
1,200 feet. Traffic will be maintained with lane closures, a pilot car, and flaggers. A 10-foot width
restriction will be in effect. Anticipated completion is May 2023.

NDOT: N-97 work to resume south of Mullen this week

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon has signed into law the nation's first explicit ban on abortion pills since they became the predominant choice for abortion in the U.S. in recent years.

Gordon, a Republican, signed the bill Friday night while allowing a separate measure restricting abortion to become law without his signature.

The pills are already banned in 13 states that have blanket bans on all forms of abortion, and 15 states already have limited access to abortion pills. Until now, however, no state had passed a law specifically prohibiting such pills, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights.

A group seeking to open an abortion and women's health clinic in Casper said it was evaluating legal options.

“We are dismayed and outraged that these laws would eradicate access to basic health care, including safe, effective medication abortion,” Wellspring Health Access President Julie Burkhart said in a statement Saturday.

The clinic, which a firebombing prevented from opening last year, is one of two nonprofits suing to block an earlier Wyoming abortion ban. No arrests have been made, and organizers say the clinic is tentatively scheduled to open in April, depending on abortion's legal status in Wyoming then.

The Republican governor’s decision on the two measures comes after the issue of access to abortion pills&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-pill-texas-fda-roe-wade-5306714113f3be4233a9e11a84a992aa">took center stage</a>&nbsp;this week in a Texas court. A federal judge there raised questions about a Christian group’s effort to overturn the decades-old U.S. approval of a leading abortion drug, mifepristone.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">Medication abortions</a>&nbsp;became the preferred method for ending pregnancy in the U.S. even before the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade,</a>&nbsp;the ruling that protected the right to abortion for nearly five decades. A two-pill combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">mifepristone and another drug</a>&nbsp;is the most common form of abortion in the U.S.

Wyoming’s ban on abortion pills would take effect in July, pending any legal action that could potentially delay that. The implementation date of the sweeping legislation banning all abortions that Gordon allowed to go into law is not specified in the bill.

With the earlier ban tied up in court, abortion currently remains legal in the state up to viability, or when the fetus could survive outside the womb.

In a statement, Gordon expressed concern that the latter law, dubbed the Life is a Human Right Act would result in a lawsuit that will “delay any resolution to the constitutionality of the abortion ban in Wyoming.”

He noted that earlier in the day, plaintiffs in an ongoing lawsuit filed a challenge to the new law in the event he did not issue a veto.

“I believe this question needs to be decided as soon as possible so that the issue of abortion in Wyoming can be finally resolved, and that is best done with a vote of the people,” Gordon said in a statement.

In a statement, Wyoming ACLU advocacy director Antonio Serrano criticized Gordon’s decision to sign the ban on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-pill-texas-fda-roe-wade-5306714113f3be4233a9e11a84a992aa">abortion pills</a>.

“A person’s health, not politics, should guide important medical decisions — including the decision to have an abortion,” Serrano said.

Of the 15 states that have limited access to the pills, six require an in-person physician visit. Those laws could withstand court challenges; states have long had authority over how physicians, pharmacists and other providers practice medicine.

States also set the rules for telemedicine consultations used to prescribe medications. Generally, that means health providers in states with restrictions on abortion pills could face penalties, such as fines or license suspension, for trying to send pills through the mail.

Women have already been traveling across state lines to places where abortion pill access is easier. That trend is expected to increase.

Since the reversal of Roe in June, abortion restrictions have been up to states, and the landscape has shifted quickly. Thirteen states now enforce bans on abortion at any point in pregnancy, and another, Georgia, bans it once cardiac activity can be detected, or at about six weeks’ gestation.

Courts have put on hold enforcement of abortion bans or deep restrictions in Arizona, Indiana, Montana, Ohio, South Carolina, Utah and Wyoming. Idaho courts have forced the state to allow abortions during medical emergencies.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679271740950.jpeg" alt="Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon gives the State of the State address to the Wyoming Legislature on March 2, 2021, inside the state Capitol in Cheyenne, Wy. Late Friday, March 17, 2023, Gordon signed a bill prohibiting abortion pills in the state and also allowed a separate measure restricting abortion to become law without his signature. (Michael Cummo/The Wyoming Tribune Eagle via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon gives the State of the State address to the Wyoming Legislature on March 2, 2021, inside the state Capitol in Cheyenne, Wy. Late Friday, March 17, 2023, Gordon signed a bill prohibiting abortion pills in the state and also allowed a separate measure restricting abortion to become law without his signature. (Michael Cummo/The Wyoming Tribune Eagle via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon has signed into law the nation's first explicit ban on abortion pills since they became the predominant choice for abortion in the U.S. in recent years.Gordon, a Republican, signed the bill Friday night while allowing a separate measure restricting abortion to become law without his signature.The pills are already banned in 13 states that have blanket bans on all forms of abortion, and 15 states already have limited access to abortion pills. Until now, however, no state had passed a law specifically prohibiting such pills, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights.A group seeking to open an abortion and women's health clinic in Casper said it was evaluating legal options.“We are dismayed and outraged that these laws would eradicate access to basic health care, including safe, effective medication abortion,” Wellspring Health Access President Julie Burkhart said in a statement Saturday.The clinic, which a firebombing prevented from opening last year, is one of two nonprofits suing to block an earlier Wyoming abortion ban. No arrests have been made, and organizers say the clinic is tentatively scheduled to open in April, depending on abortion's legal status in Wyoming then.The Republican governor’s decision on the two measures comes after the issue of access to abortion pills&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-pill-texas-fda-roe-wade-5306714113f3be4233a9e11a84a992aa">took center stage</a>&nbsp;this week in a Texas court. A federal judge there raised questions about a Christian group’s effort to overturn the decades-old U.S. approval of a leading abortion drug, mifepristone.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">Medication abortions</a>&nbsp;became the preferred method for ending pregnancy in the U.S. even before the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade,</a>&nbsp;the ruling that protected the right to abortion for nearly five decades. A two-pill combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">mifepristone and another drug</a>&nbsp;is the most common form of abortion in the U.S.Wyoming’s ban on abortion pills would take effect in July, pending any legal action that could potentially delay that. The implementation date of the sweeping legislation banning all abortions that Gordon allowed to go into law is not specified in the bill.With the earlier ban tied up in court, abortion currently remains legal in the state up to viability, or when the fetus could survive outside the womb.In a statement, Gordon expressed concern that the latter law, dubbed the Life is a Human Right Act would result in a lawsuit that will “delay any resolution to the constitutionality of the abortion ban in Wyoming.”He noted that earlier in the day, plaintiffs in an ongoing lawsuit filed a challenge to the new law in the event he did not issue a veto.“I believe this question needs to be decided as soon as possible so that the issue of abortion in Wyoming can be finally resolved, and that is best done with a vote of the people,” Gordon said in a statement.In a statement, Wyoming ACLU advocacy director Antonio Serrano criticized Gordon’s decision to sign the ban on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-pill-texas-fda-roe-wade-5306714113f3be4233a9e11a84a992aa">abortion pills</a>.“A person’s health, not politics, should guide important medical decisions — including the decision to have an abortion,” Serrano said.Of the 15 states that have limited access to the pills, six require an in-person physician visit. Those laws could withstand court challenges; states have long had authority over how physicians, pharmacists and other providers practice medicine.States also set the rules for telemedicine consultations used to prescribe medications. Generally, that means health providers in states with restrictions on abortion pills could face penalties, such as fines or license suspension, for trying to send pills through the mail.Women have already been traveling across state lines to places where abortion pill access is easier. That trend is expected to increase.Since the reversal of Roe in June, abortion restrictions have been up to states, and the landscape has shifted quickly. Thirteen states now enforce bans on abortion at any point in pregnancy, and another, Georgia, bans it once cardiac activity can be detected, or at about six weeks’ gestation.Courts have put on hold enforcement of abortion bans or deep restrictions in Arizona, Indiana, Montana, Ohio, South Carolina, Utah and Wyoming. Idaho courts have forced the state to allow abortions during medical emergencies.

Wyoming governor signs measure prohibiting abortion pills

<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/2023/3/1679222720408.png" alt="Elijah J Emery - Possession of Amphetamine, Trespassing" />
 <figcaption>Elijah J Emery - Possession of Amphetamine, Trespassing</figcaption>
 </figure>***KEITH COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679222762041.png" alt="Marcus A Buford - Disturbing the Peace, Strangulation, 2nd degree assault, stolen firearm" />
 <figcaption>Marcus A Buford - Disturbing the Peace, Strangulation, 2nd degree assault, stolen firearm</figcaption>
 </figure>***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679222799817.png" alt="Jessie J Murphy - Obstruction of a Peace Officer" />
 <figcaption>Jessie J Murphy - Obstruction of a Peace Officer</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679222812098.png" alt="Shali Danielle Chavez&nbsp; - Possession of a Controlled Substance" />
 <figcaption>Shali Danielle Chavez&nbsp; - Possession of a Controlled Substance</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679222826133.png" alt="Christopher Lynn Beason - Resisting Arrest (1st offense), Possession of a Controlled Substance, Obstruction of a Peace Officer" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Lynn Beason - Resisting Arrest (1st offense), Possession of a Controlled Substance, Obstruction of a Peace Officer</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 19, 2023

A total of 342 middle school girls representing 17 area schools registered for the 2023 Expanding Your Horizons Conference at North Platte Community College on Thursday.

Marilyn McGahan opened the activities with a keynote address about opportunities and choices.

“Don’t limit yourself, and don’t let anyone else limit you,” McGahan said. “Take advantage of the opportunities that are presented. It’s your choice but be prepared to bear the consequences of those decisions. The choices you make say a good deal about you. Before you can make choices about a career, you better know something about yourself.”

The students spent the rest of the morning rotating around to workshops — listening to presentations and participating in hands-on activities intended to introduce them to a variety of career fields.&nbsp;

Aviation, banking, chiropractic, computer coding, funeral directing and embalming, horticulture, entomology, law enforcement, and drone flying were just some of the many professions the students could learn about.&nbsp;

Sessions were led by volunteers from 32 businesses, and most of the presenters were women.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678993195810.jpeg" alt="Sarah Mundt, a student at Hershey Public Schools, holds a snake during the 2023 Expanding Your Horizons conference at North Platte Community College on Thursday." />
 <figcaption>Sarah Mundt, a student at Hershey Public Schools, holds a snake during the 2023 Expanding Your Horizons conference at North Platte Community College on Thursday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER JOHNSON MPCCA total of 342 middle school girls representing 17 area schools registered for the 2023 Expanding Your Horizons Conference at North Platte Community College on Thursday.Marilyn McGahan opened the activities with a keynote address about opportunities and choices.“Don’t limit yourself, and don’t let anyone else limit you,” McGahan said. “Take advantage of the opportunities that are presented. It’s your choice but be prepared to bear the consequences of those decisions. The choices you make say a good deal about you. Before you can make choices about a career, you better know something about yourself.”The students spent the rest of the morning rotating around to workshops — listening to presentations and participating in hands-on activities intended to introduce them to a variety of career fields.&nbsp;Aviation, banking, chiropractic, computer coding, funeral directing and embalming, horticulture, entomology, law enforcement, and drone flying were just some of the many professions the students could learn about.&nbsp;Sessions were led by volunteers from 32 businesses, and most of the presenters were women.

Expanding Your Horizons Conference introduces girls to variety of careers

March 2023 Survey Results at a Glance


· For a
After
 hovering around growth neutral for three straight months, the region’s 
overall economic reading slumped below the threshold to its lowest 
reading since October of last year.


· Farmland prices have now advanced for 30 straight months.


· After advancing by over 9% for 2022, bank CEOs expect farmland prices to expand by only 1% over the next 12 months.


· Only 13.6% of bankers tightened credit standards for farm loans this year.&nbsp;



· Approximately
 87% of bankers recommend a Federal Reserve rate hike at its next 
meetings, March 21-22, with almost one-third supporting a 0.50% 
increase.



· Bank savings deposits rose to a record level.


OMAHA —&nbsp;After
 three straight months of readings slightly above growth neutral, the 
Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index fell below the growth 
neutral threshold, 50.0, according to the latest monthly survey of bank 
CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent
 on agriculture and/or energy.

Overall:
The region’s overall reading in March sank below the growth neutral threshold.
The March index slumped to 45.6 from 50.1 in February. The index 
ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth 
neutral.&nbsp;

“The Rural Mainstreet economy continues to experience slow, to no, to negative economic growth.
Less than 1% of bankers 
reported improving economic conditions for the month with 92% indicating
 no change in economic conditions from February’s slow growth,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics
 at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.


Farming and ranching:
<a></a><a>The region’s farmland price index decreased to 63.0 from February’s 63.5.
</a><a>This was the 30th straight month</a>
 that the index has advanced above 50.0.&nbsp;

Across the region, farmland prices advanced by approximately
 9% over the past 12 months.&nbsp; However, bankers, on average, expect only 1% growth over the next 12 months.


Farm equipment sales: As a result
 of solid farm financial conditions, the farm equipment-sales index climbed to 59.5 from 52.1 in February.
The index has risen above growth neutral for 26 of the last 28 months.

Banking:
The March loan volume index rose to a strong 63.0 from 48.1 in February and was up from 61.9 in March 2022.
The checking-deposit index increased to 40.9 from February’s 38.5, 
while the index for certificates of deposit and other savings 
instruments expanded to a record high of 75.0&nbsp; from February’s solid 
57.7.

Bank
 CEOs were asked what interest rate action the Federal Reserve should 
undertake at their March 21-22 meetings. Approximately 56.5% recommended
 a 0.25% rate increase; 30.5%
 supported a 0.50% boost; and 13% advocated no rate change. However, 
most survey responses were completed prior to recent bank failures.&nbsp;&nbsp;


According
 to Jeffrey Gerhart, former Chair of the Independent Community Bankers 
of America, “It’s too bad that the Fed waited so long to raise interest 
rates. They could have
 begun raising interest rates sooner than they did and would not have 
had to raise them as fast as they’ve done.”&nbsp; Gerhart applauds the Fed 
for raising interest rates and its willingness to stay the course to get
 a handle on inflation.


Hiring: The new hiring index for March sank to 45.5 from 48.1 in March. Labor shortages continue to
 be a significant issue constraining growth for Rural Mainstreet businesses.

Confidence:
The slowing economy, higher
 borrowing costs and labor shortages continued to constrain the business
 confidence index to a weak 39.1 from 44.4 in February. “Over the past 12 months, the regional confidence index has fallen to levels
 indicating a very negative outlook,” said Goss.

Home and retail sales:
 The home-sales index sank to a very weak 36.4 from February’s 37.0. 
“This is
 the tenth straight month that the home-sales index has fallen below 
growth neutral. An almost doubling of the 30-year mortgage rate over the
 past year and low inventory levels slowed home sales in the region over
 that time period,” said Goss.

The retail-sales index for March dropped to 41.3 from February’s 50.0. “Bankers were pessimistic regarding the economic outlook with downward pressure
 on retail sales for the first quarter of 2023,” said Goss.

The
 survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural 
agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural 
Mainstreet Index is a unique index covering
 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities 
with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current
 real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and Bill McQuillan, 
former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks
 of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in 
January 2006.

Below are reports from Nebraska and surrounding states:

Colorado: Colorado’s Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) for March fell to 50.3 from 60.6 in February. The
 farmland- and ranchland-price index advanced to 64.3 from 62.6 in February. The state’s new hiring index was 47.8 for March.
USDA
 data for the top five exported agriculture products for Colorado 
indicate that for the first quarter of fiscal 2023, the state exported 
$496.3 million. This represented
 $1.01 per $1,000 of state GDP.

Kansas: The Kansas RMI for March dropped to 43.6 from February’s 53.5. The state’s farmland-price
 index declined to 61.4 from February’s 70.1. The new-hiring index for Kansas plummeted to 44.3 from 50.2 in February.
USDA data for the top five 
exported agriculture products for Kansas indicate that for the first 
quarter of fiscal 2023, the state exported $942 million. This 
represented $4.43 per $1,000 of state GDP.

Missouri:
 The state’s March RMI dropped to 44.5 from 49.8 in February. The 
farmland-price index fell
 to 61.8 from February’s 63.2. The state’s new hiring gauge shrank to 
44.8 from 48.2 in February. USDA data for the top five exported 
agriculture products for Missouri indicate that for the first quarter of
 fiscal 2023, the state exported $477.6 million. This
 represented $1.22 per $1,000 of state GDP.

Nebraska:
 The Nebraska RMI sank below growth neutral to 48.3 from 53.1 in 
February. The state’s farmland-price
 index for March decreased to 63.4 from February’s 64.6.&nbsp; Nebraska’s 
March new-hiring index slumped to 46.8 from 49.9 in February.
USDA data for the top five
 exported agriculture products for Nebraska indicate that for the first 
quarter of fiscal 2023, the state exported $868.8 million. This 
represented $5.30 per $1,000 of state GDP.

South Dakota:
 The March RMI for South Dakota increased to 47.2 from 44.8 in February.
 The state’s
 farmland-price index decreased to 58.8 from February’s 59.6. South 
Dakota’s March new hiring index fell to 41.0 from 43.7 in February. USDA
 data for the top five exported agriculture products for South Dakota 
indicate that for the first quarter of fiscal 2023,
 the state exported $355.4 million. This represented $5.20 per $1,000 of
 state GDP.

Wyoming:
 The March RMI for Wyoming slumped to 41.7 from 42.8 in February. The 
March farmland- and
 ranchland-price index increased to 60.6 from 60.2 in February. 
Wyoming’s new-hiring index sank to 43.3 from February’s 44.5. USDA data 
for the top five exported agriculture products for Wyoming indicate that
 for the first quarter of fiscal 2023, the state
 exported $700 thousand. This represented $0.01 per $1,000 of state GDP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622642233344.jpeg" alt="Creighton Professor Ernie Goss" />
 <figcaption>Creighton Professor Ernie Goss</figcaption>
 </figure>Creighton UniversityMarch 2023 Survey Results at a Glance
· For a
After
 hovering around growth neutral for three straight months, the region’s 
overall economic reading slumped below the threshold to its lowest 
reading since October of last year.
· Farmland prices have now advanced for 30 straight months.
· After advancing by over 9% for 2022, bank CEOs expect farmland prices to expand by only 1% over the next 12 months.
· Only 13.6% of bankers tightened credit standards for farm loans this year.&nbsp;

· Approximately
 87% of bankers recommend a Federal Reserve rate hike at its next 
meetings, March 21-22, with almost one-third supporting a 0.50% 
increase.

· Bank savings deposits rose to a record level.
OMAHA —&nbsp;After
 three straight months of readings slightly above growth neutral, the 
Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index fell below the growth 
neutral threshold, 50.0, according to the latest monthly survey of bank 
CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent
 on agriculture and/or energy.Overall:
The region’s overall reading in March sank below the growth neutral threshold.
The March index slumped to 45.6 from 50.1 in February. The index 
ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth 
neutral.&nbsp;
“The Rural Mainstreet economy continues to experience slow, to no, to negative economic growth.
Less than 1% of bankers 
reported improving economic conditions for the month with 92% indicating
 no change in economic conditions from February’s slow growth,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics
 at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.
Farming and ranching:
<a></a><a>The region’s farmland price index decreased to 63.0 from February’s 63.5.
</a><a>This was the 30th straight month</a>
 that the index has advanced above 50.0.&nbsp; Across the region, farmland prices advanced by approximately
 9% over the past 12 months.&nbsp; However, bankers, on average, expect only 1% growth over the next 12 months.
Farm equipment sales: As a result
 of solid farm financial conditions, the farm equipment-sales index climbed to 59.5 from 52.1 in February.
The index has risen above growth neutral for 26 of the last 28 months.
Banking:
The March loan volume index rose to a strong 63.0 from 48.1 in February and was up from 61.9 in March 2022.
The checking-deposit index increased to 40.9 from February’s 38.5, 
while the index for certificates of deposit and other savings 
instruments expanded to a record high of 75.0&nbsp; from February’s solid 
57.7.Bank
 CEOs were asked what interest rate action the Federal Reserve should 
undertake at their March 21-22 meetings. Approximately 56.5% recommended
 a 0.25% rate increase; 30.5%
 supported a 0.50% boost; and 13% advocated no rate change. However, 
most survey responses were completed prior to recent bank failures.&nbsp;&nbsp;
According
 to Jeffrey Gerhart, former Chair of the Independent Community Bankers 
of America, “It’s too bad that the Fed waited so long to raise interest 
rates. They could have
 begun raising interest rates sooner than they did and would not have 
had to raise them as fast as they’ve done.”&nbsp; Gerhart applauds the Fed 
for raising interest rates and its willingness to stay the course to get
 a handle on inflation.
Hiring: The new hiring index for March sank to 45.5 from 48.1 in March. Labor shortages continue to
 be a significant issue constraining growth for Rural Mainstreet businesses. 
Confidence:
The slowing economy, higher
 borrowing costs and labor shortages continued to constrain the business
 confidence index to a weak 39.1 from 44.4 in February. “Over the past 12 months, the regional confidence index has fallen to levels
 indicating a very negative outlook,” said Goss.Home and retail sales:
 The home-sales index sank to a very weak 36.4 from February’s 37.0. 
“This is
 the tenth straight month that the home-sales index has fallen below 
growth neutral. An almost doubling of the 30-year mortgage rate over the
 past year and low inventory levels slowed home sales in the region over
 that time period,” said Goss.The retail-sales index for March dropped to 41.3 from February’s 50.0. “Bankers were pessimistic regarding the economic outlook with downward pressure
 on retail sales for the first quarter of 2023,” said Goss.The
 survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural 
agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural 
Mainstreet Index is a unique index covering
 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities 
with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current
 real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and Bill McQuillan, 
former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks
 of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in 
January 2006.Below are reports from Nebraska and surrounding states:Colorado: Colorado’s Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) for March fell to 50.3 from 60.6 in February. The
 farmland- and ranchland-price index advanced to 64.3 from 62.6 in February. The state’s new hiring index was 47.8 for March.
USDA
 data for the top five exported agriculture products for Colorado 
indicate that for the first quarter of fiscal 2023, the state exported 
$496.3 million. This represented
 $1.01 per $1,000 of state GDP. Kansas: The Kansas RMI for March dropped to 43.6 from February’s 53.5. The state’s farmland-price
 index declined to 61.4 from February’s 70.1. The new-hiring index for Kansas plummeted to 44.3 from 50.2 in February.
USDA data for the top five 
exported agriculture products for Kansas indicate that for the first 
quarter of fiscal 2023, the state exported $942 million. This 
represented $4.43 per $1,000 of state GDP.Missouri:
 The state’s March RMI dropped to 44.5 from 49.8 in February. The 
farmland-price index fell
 to 61.8 from February’s 63.2. The state’s new hiring gauge shrank to 
44.8 from 48.2 in February. USDA data for the top five exported 
agriculture products for Missouri indicate that for the first quarter of
 fiscal 2023, the state exported $477.6 million. This
 represented $1.22 per $1,000 of state GDP.Nebraska:
 The Nebraska RMI sank below growth neutral to 48.3 from 53.1 in 
February. The state’s farmland-price
 index for March decreased to 63.4 from February’s 64.6.&nbsp; Nebraska’s 
March new-hiring index slumped to 46.8 from 49.9 in February.
USDA data for the top five
 exported agriculture products for Nebraska indicate that for the first 
quarter of fiscal 2023, the state exported $868.8 million. This 
represented $5.30 per $1,000 of state GDP.South Dakota:
 The March RMI for South Dakota increased to 47.2 from 44.8 in February.
 The state’s
 farmland-price index decreased to 58.8 from February’s 59.6. South 
Dakota’s March new hiring index fell to 41.0 from 43.7 in February. USDA
 data for the top five exported agriculture products for South Dakota 
indicate that for the first quarter of fiscal 2023,
 the state exported $355.4 million. This represented $5.20 per $1,000 of
 state GDP.Wyoming:
 The March RMI for Wyoming slumped to 41.7 from 42.8 in February. The 
March farmland- and
 ranchland-price index increased to 60.6 from 60.2 in February. 
Wyoming’s new-hiring index sank to 43.3 from February’s 44.5. USDA data 
for the top five exported agriculture products for Wyoming indicate that
 for the first quarter of fiscal 2023, the state
 exported $700 thousand. This represented $0.01 per $1,000 of state GDP.

GOSS: Rural Mainstreet economy goes negative for March

Mid-Plains Community College is offering free resume workshops in McCook and North
                              Platte to help members of the public as well as students create and build resumes
                              and gain traction in the job-hunting process.

These workshops are set for Thursday, March 30 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at both McCook
                              and North Platte. In McCook, it will be at the Learning Commons in von Riesen Library
                              and in North Platte at the Learning Commons.

MPCC staff will help give tips on how to create resume and cover letters as well
                              as edit any current ones. The workshop will also offer help with job interview skills.

Students and community members can make an appointment either by contacting Learning
                              Commons staff, or logging onto Handshake and making the appointment through that application.

To make an appointment in McCook, contact Area Career Coach Jacob Brandl at 308-345-8128
                              or email at brandlj@mpcc.edu

In North Platte, contact Career Placement Coordinator Amy Sabatka at 308-535-3619 or
 email <a href="mailto:sabatkaa@mpcc.edu">sabatkaa@mpcc.edu</a>

MPCCMid-Plains Community College is offering free resume workshops in McCook and North
 Platte to help members of the public as well as students create and build resumes
 and gain traction in the job-hunting process.These workshops are set for Thursday, March 30 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at both McCook
 and North Platte. In McCook, it will be at the Learning Commons in von Riesen Library
 and in North Platte at the Learning Commons.MPCC staff will help give tips on how to create resume and cover letters as well
 as edit any current ones. The workshop will also offer help with job interview skills.Students and community members can make an appointment either by contacting Learning
 Commons staff, or logging onto Handshake and making the appointment through that application.To make an appointment in McCook, contact Area Career Coach Jacob Brandl at 308-345-8128
 or email at brandlj@mpcc.eduIn North Platte, contact Career Placement Coordinator Amy Sabatka at 308-535-3619 or
 email <a href="mailto:sabatkaa@mpcc.edu">sabatkaa@mpcc.edu</a>

Public resume workshops scheduled in North Platte, McCook

<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/2023/3/1679135788975.png" alt="Kyle Steven Gillett - Fugitive From Justice Sarpy County" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Steven Gillett - Fugitive From Justice Sarpy County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679135819609.png" alt="Neil Thomas Gray - Custodial Sanction" />
 <figcaption>Neil Thomas Gray - Custodial Sanction</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679135857857.png" alt="Isreal Eric Zegiel - False Imprisonment, Theft by Unlawful Taking $0 - $500" />
 <figcaption>Isreal Eric Zegiel - False Imprisonment, Theft by Unlawful Taking $0 - $500</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679135904999.png" alt="Denise Forsha Little - Domestic Assault" />
 <figcaption>Denise Forsha Little - Domestic Assault</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679135922340.png" alt="Alicia Lee Macias - Theft by Unlawful Taking $0-$500 (3rd 0ffense), Shoplifting, Theft of Services" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Lee Macias - Theft by Unlawful Taking $0-$500 (3rd 0ffense), Shoplifting, Theft of Services</figcaption>
 </figure>***KEITH COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136198007.png" alt="Forres Grant - Possession of Narcotic Equipment, Possession of a Controlled Substance" />
 <figcaption>Forres Grant - Possession of Narcotic Equipment, Possession of a Controlled Substance</figcaption>
 </figure>***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136258394.png" alt="Brandi Jo Lehman - Probation Sanction" />
 <figcaption>Brandi Jo Lehman - Probation Sanction</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136293776.png" alt="David R Klingelhoefer - Theft-Receiving Stolen Property $1500-$5000, Possession of Burglary Tools" />
 <figcaption>David R Klingelhoefer - Theft-Receiving Stolen Property $1500-$5000, Possession of Burglary Tools</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136360561.png" alt="Christopher Michael Strecker - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Michael Strecker - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136389330.png" alt="James L Weber Jr - Refuse to Submit to Test w/ 2 prior convictions" />
 <figcaption>James L Weber Jr - Refuse to Submit to Test w/ 2 prior convictions</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136406419.png" alt="Derek Joseph Standlea - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Derek Joseph Standlea - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136421256.png" alt="Travis C Thompson - Violate Protection Order" />
 <figcaption>Travis C Thompson - Violate Protection Order</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136435709.png" alt="Carlos Abram Torres-Morales - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Carlos Abram Torres-Morales - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136452534.png" alt="Dominick Joseph Blea - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Dominick Joseph Blea - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136468237.png" alt="Chasyn Eugene Hasbrouck - Theft by Deception $501-$1499, Criminal Mischief $0-$500, Theft by Unlawful Taking $5000+" />
 <figcaption>Chasyn Eugene Hasbrouck - Theft by Deception $501-$1499, Criminal Mischief $0-$500, Theft by Unlawful Taking $5000+</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679136481737.png" alt="Jermaine A Robinson - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Jermaine A Robinson - Contempt of Court</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 18, 2023

Mid-Plains Community College will offer a series of Registration Days beginning in April and continuing through the summer.

The events are scheduled for Tuesdays, April 25, May 23, June 27 and July 18 in North Platte and Thursdays, April 27, May 25, June 29 and July 20 in McCook.

Registration Days provide prospective students with an opportunity to sign up for classes, meet with staff from student services and receive the information needed to begin coursework in the fall.&nbsp;

Students will be able to take placement tests and representatives will be on hand to answer questions about:

“Students and parents will be guided through the enrollment process in a fun and informative way, making sure they leave feeling prepared for success,” said Mindy Hope, director of recruiting and admissions. “Free hoodies will be given to the first 100 students who attend an event.”

Those interested in attending a Registration Day are asked to RSVP at<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/admissions/registration-days.php">http://www.mpcc.edu/admissions/registration-days.php</a>. More information is available by calling (800) 658-4308, Ext. 3783.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678742076741.jpeg" alt="Mid-Plains Community College students peruse a welcome packet in North Platte. MPCC will offer a series of Registration Days beginning in April and continuing through the summer." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Plains Community College students peruse a welcome packet in North Platte. MPCC will offer a series of Registration Days beginning in April and continuing through the summer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER JOHNSON MPCCMid-Plains Community College will offer a series of Registration Days beginning in April and continuing through the summer.The events are scheduled for Tuesdays, April 25, May 23, June 27 and July 18 in North Platte and Thursdays, April 27, May 25, June 29 and July 20 in McCook.Registration Days provide prospective students with an opportunity to sign up for classes, meet with staff from student services and receive the information needed to begin coursework in the fall.&nbsp;Students will be able to take placement tests and representatives will be on hand to answer questions about:<ul>
 <li>Class scheduling</li><li>Financial aid</li><li>Payment expectations</li><li>Bookstores</li><li>Career services</li><li>Advising</li><li>Library services</li><li>Student Success/tutors</li><li>Disability services</li><li>Student life</li><li>Student organizations</li><li>Campus housing</li>
 </ul>“Students and parents will be guided through the enrollment process in a fun and informative way, making sure they leave feeling prepared for success,” said Mindy Hope, director of recruiting and admissions. “Free hoodies will be given to the first 100 students who attend an event.”Those interested in attending a Registration Day are asked to RSVP at<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/admissions/registration-days.php">http://www.mpcc.edu/admissions/registration-days.php</a>. More information is available by calling (800) 658-4308, Ext. 3783.

Mid-Plains CC announces 2023 registration days

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners will meet at 9 a.m. March 20 at the Lincoln County Courthouse.

Among the agenda items is the proposed rezoning of property from Transitional Agricultural use to Rural Residential Acreage use.

The request, made by 97 Ranch LLC (Adam Steffes) would involve&nbsp; property at 4944 North Splinter Road in Lincoln County.

The board will also discuss and consider a possible moratorium on development of commercial or utility-grade wind energy construction systems and the issuance of conditional-use permits.

The complete agenda is below. The meeting can be seen via YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHdGjLPMx3O-wSu3T3aMWlg">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677879357038.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners will meet at 9 a.m. March 20 at the Lincoln County Courthouse.Among the agenda items is the proposed rezoning of property from Transitional Agricultural use to Rural Residential Acreage use.The request, made by 97 Ranch LLC (Adam Steffes) would involve&nbsp; property at 4944 North Splinter Road in Lincoln County.The board will also discuss and consider a possible moratorium on development of commercial or utility-grade wind energy construction systems and the issuance of conditional-use permits.The complete agenda is below. The meeting can be seen via YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHdGjLPMx3O-wSu3T3aMWlg">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679086857272.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679086870723.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
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 </figure><figure>
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679086907636.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Lincoln County commissioners set to meet Monday

SCOTTSBLUFF — The Western Community College Area Board of Governors has approved the recommendation
                              of three finalists for the position of president by the Presidential Search Advisory
                              Committee at Western Nebraska Community College.

The three finalists, in alphabetical order are Dr. Samuel (Todd) Brand, chief academic
                              officer at Ashland Community &amp; Technical College; Mr. Greg Dart, chief campus administrator
                              at Utah State University Eastern; and Dr. George McNulty, president at Gogebic Community
                              College. 

The WCCA Board of Governors voted to approve the finalists at the March Board of Governors
                              meeting. 

Dr. Brand is the current chief academic officer at Ashland Community &amp; Technical College
                              in Ashland, Kentucky. Prior to his position at Ashland, he was the arts/communications
                              division chair from 2006-2019 at Meridian Community College in Mississippi, where
                              he also served as the arts &amp; letters series director from 2014-2019. 

Brand holds a Ph.D. from Mississippi State University, a Master of Science in Communications,
                              and a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi College. 

Mr. Dart has been the chief campus administrator at Utah State University Eastern
                              in Price, Utah since 2018. Prior to that, he served as the vice chancellor of student
                              affairs &amp; enrollment management from 2014-2018, and the director of enrollment services
                              from 2012-2013. Dart has also held roles as the vice president for student services
                              at Zane State college in Ohio; the director of admissions, scholarships, and communications,
                              and associate professor of communications, both at Snow College in Utah. 

Dart is finalizing his doctorate of education at Northeastern University, with all
                              but his dissertation complete. He also has a Master of Education in Instructional
                              Technology from Utah State University, a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Public
                              Communications from the University of Alaska-Anchorage, and an Associate of Science
                              from Snow College. 

Dr. McNulty has been the president of Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, Michigan
                              since 2019. He previously served as the vice president of student affairs at Colby
                              Community College in Kansas for six years, as well as the college's acting Title IX
                              coordinator during the same time. He has held a variety of roles at higher education
                              institutions including positions as an interim director of financial assistance, coordinator
                              of retentions, student-athlete advisor, Phi Theta Kappa co-advisor, and academic advisor,
                              among others. He also served in the U.S. Army, active duty from 1988-1991 and inactive
                              duty from 1991-1996. 

McNulty holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and a Master of Arts in Counseling
                              and Educational Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno, a Bachelor of Arts
                              in Physical Education from California State University, Chico, and two associate's
                              degrees from Feather River College. 

The Board will conduct in-person interviews and campus visits with the finalists in
                              the first two weeks of April. Each candidate will have an open forum on the Scottsbluff
                              Campus and meet and greets on the Alliance and Sidney campuses where they will have
                              the opportunity to meet with WNCC students, employees, and community members. The
                              public is encouraged to attend the forums and the meet and greets. Livestream options
                              are also available for the Scottsbluff Campus open forums. 

The open forum with Dr. McNulty will be held Monday, April 3, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m
 in the John N. Harms Center. The open forum is also available via livestream at <a href="https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april3" target="_blank">https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april3</a>. Dr. McNulty's meet and greet on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will be on Tuesday,
 April 4, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m, respectively.

The open forum with Mr. Dart will be held Wednesday, April 5, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m
 in the John N. Harms Center. The open forum is also available via livestream at <a href="https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april5" target="_blank">https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april5</a>. Mr. Dart's meet and greet on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will be on Thursday,
 April 6, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m, respectively.

The final open forum with Dr. Brand will be held Thursday, April 13, from 4:30 – 5:30
 p.m in the John N. Harms Center. The open forum is also available via livestream at
 <a href="https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april13" target="_blank">https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april13</a>. Dr. Brand's meet and greet on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will be on Friday,
 April 14, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m, respectively.

After all three finalists have interviewed with the Board and visited WNCC campuses,
                              the board will announce their selection at a special board meeting on April 19. 

For more information about the search, visit wncc.edu/about-wncc/presidentialsearch.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678984824487.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WCCSCOTTSBLUFF — The Western Community College Area Board of Governors has approved the recommendation
 of three finalists for the position of president by the Presidential Search Advisory
 Committee at Western Nebraska Community College.The three finalists, in alphabetical order are Dr. Samuel (Todd) Brand, chief academic
 officer at Ashland Community &amp; Technical College; Mr. Greg Dart, chief campus administrator
 at Utah State University Eastern; and Dr. George McNulty, president at Gogebic Community
 College. The WCCA Board of Governors voted to approve the finalists at the March Board of Governors
 meeting. Dr. Brand is the current chief academic officer at Ashland Community &amp; Technical College
 in Ashland, Kentucky. Prior to his position at Ashland, he was the arts/communications
 division chair from 2006-2019 at Meridian Community College in Mississippi, where
 he also served as the arts &amp; letters series director from 2014-2019. Brand holds a Ph.D. from Mississippi State University, a Master of Science in Communications,
 and a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi College. Mr. Dart has been the chief campus administrator at Utah State University Eastern
 in Price, Utah since 2018. Prior to that, he served as the vice chancellor of student
 affairs &amp; enrollment management from 2014-2018, and the director of enrollment services
 from 2012-2013. Dart has also held roles as the vice president for student services
 at Zane State college in Ohio; the director of admissions, scholarships, and communications,
 and associate professor of communications, both at Snow College in Utah. Dart is finalizing his doctorate of education at Northeastern University, with all
 but his dissertation complete. He also has a Master of Education in Instructional
 Technology from Utah State University, a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Public
 Communications from the University of Alaska-Anchorage, and an Associate of Science
 from Snow College. Dr. McNulty has been the president of Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, Michigan
 since 2019. He previously served as the vice president of student affairs at Colby
 Community College in Kansas for six years, as well as the college's acting Title IX
 coordinator during the same time. He has held a variety of roles at higher education
 institutions including positions as an interim director of financial assistance, coordinator
 of retentions, student-athlete advisor, Phi Theta Kappa co-advisor, and academic advisor,
 among others. He also served in the U.S. Army, active duty from 1988-1991 and inactive
 duty from 1991-1996. McNulty holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and a Master of Arts in Counseling
 and Educational Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno, a Bachelor of Arts
 in Physical Education from California State University, Chico, and two associate's
 degrees from Feather River College. The Board will conduct in-person interviews and campus visits with the finalists in
 the first two weeks of April. Each candidate will have an open forum on the Scottsbluff
 Campus and meet and greets on the Alliance and Sidney campuses where they will have
 the opportunity to meet with WNCC students, employees, and community members. The
 public is encouraged to attend the forums and the meet and greets. Livestream options
 are also available for the Scottsbluff Campus open forums. The open forum with Dr. McNulty will be held Monday, April 3, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m
 in the John N. Harms Center. The open forum is also available via livestream at <a href="https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april3" target="_blank">https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april3</a>. Dr. McNulty's meet and greet on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will be on Tuesday,
 April 4, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m, respectively.The open forum with Mr. Dart will be held Wednesday, April 5, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m
 in the John N. Harms Center. The open forum is also available via livestream at <a href="https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april5" target="_blank">https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april5</a>. Mr. Dart's meet and greet on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will be on Thursday,
 April 6, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m, respectively.The final open forum with Dr. Brand will be held Thursday, April 13, from 4:30 – 5:30
 p.m in the John N. Harms Center. The open forum is also available via livestream at
 <a href="https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april13" target="_blank">https://livestream.com/wncc/forum-april13</a>. Dr. Brand's meet and greet on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will be on Friday,
 April 14, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m, respectively.After all three finalists have interviewed with the Board and visited WNCC campuses,
 the board will announce their selection at a special board meeting on April 19. For more information about the search, visit wncc.edu/about-wncc/presidentialsearch.

Finalists named for Western Nebraska CC president

United States Attorney 
Steven Russell announced that George Lesley Weaver Jr., 37, of Lincoln entered a guilty plea today to one count of conspiracy to 
distribute and possess with intent to distribute
 five kilograms, (11 pounds), or more of a mixture or substance 
containing a detectable amount of cocaine, 400 grams, (approximately 14 
ounces), or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl and 50 
kilograms, (110 pounds), or more of marijuana in Lincoln
 and southeast Nebraska between June and September of 2021.&nbsp; 
Co-defendant, Anna Idigima, 37, of Lincoln, pleaded guilty to the same 
charge on February 14, 2023.&nbsp;


Beginning in about June
 of 2021, Idigima, at that time employed as a Nebraska State Patrol 
stored evidence room employee in Lincoln, began stealing drugs held as 
evidence in completed cases which were awaiting
 destruction orders.&nbsp; She provided these drugs to her boyfriend, Weaver,
 who then sold them in Lincoln.&nbsp; An audit of the State Patrol storage 
areas where Idigima had access showed the following approximate totals 
of drugs were missing:&nbsp; marijuana - 154 pounds;
 cocaine - 9 pounds; fentanyl - 6 pounds; heroin - 10 pounds; 
methamphetamine - 3 pounds; THC - 32 pounds; along with numerous THC 
vape cartridges and assorted prescription drugs.&nbsp; In August of 2021, 
investigators found drug-related conversations and a photo
 of several large bags of marijuana in Weaver’s SnapChat Account.&nbsp; One 
of the bags had a piece of red evidence tape on it which matched 
evidence tape used by the State Patrol.&nbsp; A Lincoln apartment rented by 
Weaver was also searched, resulting in the finding
 of residue containing cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana.

Investigators were able
 to link overdoses suffered by three persons to cocaine and fentanyl 
stolen from the State Patrol by Idigima and sold to others by Weaver.&nbsp; 
All three victims required the administration
 of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan.&nbsp; Two required CPR, and all three
 were hospitalized. A physician specializing in emergency room medicine 
and toxicology found all three would have been at substantial risk of 
dying from the use of cocaine laced with fentanyl
 if they had not received the Narcan.&nbsp; The victims told investigators 
they bought what they believed to be cocaine just prior to their 
respective overdoses and provided the names of the persons they bought 
the drugs from.&nbsp; Those persons were arrested and told
 investigators they bought the drugs from Weaver.&nbsp; Information provided 
to law enforcement indicated Weaver sold large quantities of cocaine, 
marijuana, and other drugs in the summer of 2021, and Idigima was 
directly involved in the sale of pills.

Idigima is scheduled to
 be sentenced on May 25, 2023, and Weaver is scheduled for sentencing on
 June 16, 2023.&nbsp; Both face mandatory minimum prison sentences of 20 
years in prison with a maximum of life.&nbsp; There
 is no parole in the federal system.

This matter was 
investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force, the 
Nebraska State Patrol, the Nebraska City Police Department, the Saline 
County Sheriff’s Department, and the Phelps County
 Sheriff’s Department.

U.S. Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney 
Steven Russell announced that George Lesley Weaver Jr., 37, of Lincoln entered a guilty plea today to one count of conspiracy to 
distribute and possess with intent to distribute
 five kilograms, (11 pounds), or more of a mixture or substance 
containing a detectable amount of cocaine, 400 grams, (approximately 14 
ounces), or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl and 50 
kilograms, (110 pounds), or more of marijuana in Lincoln
 and southeast Nebraska between June and September of 2021.&nbsp; 
Co-defendant, Anna Idigima, 37, of Lincoln, pleaded guilty to the same 
charge on February 14, 2023.&nbsp;
Beginning in about June
 of 2021, Idigima, at that time employed as a Nebraska State Patrol 
stored evidence room employee in Lincoln, began stealing drugs held as 
evidence in completed cases which were awaiting
 destruction orders.&nbsp; She provided these drugs to her boyfriend, Weaver,
 who then sold them in Lincoln.&nbsp; An audit of the State Patrol storage 
areas where Idigima had access showed the following approximate totals 
of drugs were missing:&nbsp; marijuana - 154 pounds;
 cocaine - 9 pounds; fentanyl - 6 pounds; heroin - 10 pounds; 
methamphetamine - 3 pounds; THC - 32 pounds; along with numerous THC 
vape cartridges and assorted prescription drugs.&nbsp; In August of 2021, 
investigators found drug-related conversations and a photo
 of several large bags of marijuana in Weaver’s SnapChat Account.&nbsp; One 
of the bags had a piece of red evidence tape on it which matched 
evidence tape used by the State Patrol.&nbsp; A Lincoln apartment rented by 
Weaver was also searched, resulting in the finding
 of residue containing cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana.Investigators were able
 to link overdoses suffered by three persons to cocaine and fentanyl 
stolen from the State Patrol by Idigima and sold to others by Weaver.&nbsp; 
All three victims required the administration
 of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan.&nbsp; Two required CPR, and all three
 were hospitalized. A physician specializing in emergency room medicine 
and toxicology found all three would have been at substantial risk of 
dying from the use of cocaine laced with fentanyl
 if they had not received the Narcan.&nbsp; The victims told investigators 
they bought what they believed to be cocaine just prior to their 
respective overdoses and provided the names of the persons they bought 
the drugs from.&nbsp; Those persons were arrested and told
 investigators they bought the drugs from Weaver.&nbsp; Information provided 
to law enforcement indicated Weaver sold large quantities of cocaine, 
marijuana, and other drugs in the summer of 2021, and Idigima was 
directly involved in the sale of pills.Idigima is scheduled to
 be sentenced on May 25, 2023, and Weaver is scheduled for sentencing on
 June 16, 2023.&nbsp; Both face mandatory minimum prison sentences of 20 
years in prison with a maximum of life.&nbsp; There
 is no parole in the federal system.This matter was 
investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force, the 
Nebraska State Patrol, the Nebraska City Police Department, the Saline 
County Sheriff’s Department, and the Phelps County
 Sheriff’s Department.

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