From the United States Attorney-Omaha

Federal Grand Jury indictments for June 15, 2022.

&nbsp;Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 14 unsealed Indictments charging 15 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Abas Yassin Ali, age 19, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Counts I through III charge Ali with bank fraud beginning on or about January 1, 2021 and continuing through May 25, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment for each charge.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Miguel Avalos-Diaz, age 25, and&nbsp;Jose S. Perez,&nbsp;age 26, are charged in a five-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Avalos-Diaz and Perez with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about December 10, 2021, and continuing to on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Avalos-Diaz with the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 3, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Avalos-Diaz with the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine on or about March 22, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges Avalos-Diaz and Perez with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count V charges Avalos-Diaz and Perez with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ imprisonment and up to life consecutive to Count IV, a $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Edwin Baez, age 28, of Omaha, is charged in a four-count Indictment. Count I charges Baez with the distribution of cocaine on or about March 22, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, not less than three years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Baez with the distribution of cocaine on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, not less than three years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Baez with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than a four-year and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges Baez with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years and up to life imprisonment consecutive to Count I, a $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Olegario Bernabe-Ortiz, age 49, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about June 7, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jeffrey Bowlin, age 53, of Papillion, Nebraska, is charged in an eight-count Indictment.&nbsp; Counts I through VIII charge Bowlin with theft of mail beginning on or about April 24, 2022, and continuing through on or about May 21, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment for each charge.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Joshua David Charter, age 44, is charged with escape from custody on or about May 21, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment for each charge.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Donnale C. Clay, age 39, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges Clay with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, not less than ten years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Clay with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $2,000,000 fine, not less than six years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Clay with felon in possession of a firearm on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Catarino Gonzalez, age 50, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony on or about May 17, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Demetrius Jones Spence, age 53, is charged with bank robbery on or about July 11, 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jeremy A. Kinney, age 48, of Campbell, Nebraska, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges Kinney with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to a life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Kinney with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to life imprisonment consecutive to Count I, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Kinney with felon in possession of a firearm on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marcio Remberto Padilla Villatoro, age 24, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 18, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Mark Platt a/k/a Mark Platt, age 56, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Platt with transporting a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity on or about May 14, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than 5 years’ and up to life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Platt with committing a sex offense while on the sex offender registry on or about May 14, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment consecutive, a $250,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jose Rascon-Escobar, age 36, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony on or about May 25, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Delmer Sanchez Zuniga, age 41, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony on or about June 8, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1567093537444.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the United States Attorney-OmahaFederal Grand Jury indictments for June 15, 2022.&nbsp;Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 14 unsealed Indictments charging 15 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Abas Yassin Ali, age 19, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment.&nbsp; Counts I through III charge Ali with bank fraud beginning on or about January 1, 2021 and continuing through May 25, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment for each charge.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Miguel Avalos-Diaz, age 25, and&nbsp;Jose S. Perez,&nbsp;age 26, are charged in a five-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Avalos-Diaz and Perez with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about December 10, 2021, and continuing to on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Avalos-Diaz with the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 3, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Avalos-Diaz with the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine on or about March 22, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges Avalos-Diaz and Perez with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count V charges Avalos-Diaz and Perez with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ imprisonment and up to life consecutive to Count IV, a $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about March 30, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Edwin Baez, age 28, of Omaha, is charged in a four-count Indictment. Count I charges Baez with the distribution of cocaine on or about March 22, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, not less than three years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Baez with the distribution of cocaine on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, not less than three years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Baez with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than a four-year and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges Baez with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years and up to life imprisonment consecutive to Count I, a $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Olegario Bernabe-Ortiz, age 49, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about June 7, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jeffrey Bowlin, age 53, of Papillion, Nebraska, is charged in an eight-count Indictment.&nbsp; Counts I through VIII charge Bowlin with theft of mail beginning on or about April 24, 2022, and continuing through on or about May 21, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment for each charge.&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Joshua David Charter, age 44, is charged with escape from custody on or about May 21, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment for each charge.&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Donnale C. Clay, age 39, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges Clay with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, not less than ten years and up to life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Clay with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $2,000,000 fine, not less than six years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Clay with felon in possession of a firearm on or about April 27, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Catarino Gonzalez, age 50, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony on or about May 17, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Demetrius Jones Spence, age 53, is charged with bank robbery on or about July 11, 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jeremy A. Kinney, age 48, of Campbell, Nebraska, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges Kinney with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to a life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Kinney with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to life imprisonment consecutive to Count I, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges Kinney with felon in possession of a firearm on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about May 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marcio Remberto Padilla Villatoro, age 24, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 18, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Mark Platt a/k/a Mark Platt, age 56, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Platt with transporting a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity on or about May 14, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than 5 years’ and up to life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Platt with committing a sex offense while on the sex offender registry on or about May 14, 2022.&nbsp; The penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment consecutive, a $250,000 fine, not less than 5 years and up to life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jose Rascon-Escobar, age 36, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony on or about May 25, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Delmer Sanchez Zuniga, age 41, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony on or about June 8, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZAlA0ZmZs7eAPSNvrjZ2kl8B39EzXYuRY0y8yFoiBiLdqjFRH4lKcFYkRAsKVLeO-jPrdEtNbsiRe_jQMWIW-qS1SfL2O6cw0cMJGObvtkicgZan9lBinWu6VpqcoI9VY1nh1AqJ9dBcJCQuFw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Grand Jury indictments District of Nebraska

Scotty caught up with Patrick Schnell, Superintendent of Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala, for our weekly Lake Report. Powered by the Writer Agency in Ogallala. Also, in part, by Eichner's Sales and Service, Admiral's Cove, and the Box Car all right around Lake Mac.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655374716149.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scotty caught up with Patrick Schnell, Superintendent of Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala, for our weekly Lake Report. Powered by the Writer Agency in Ogallala. Also, in part, by Eichner's Sales and Service, Admiral's Cove, and the Box Car all right around Lake Mac.<div><iframe title="Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala Weekly Update" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gej3i-1250765-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZAlA0ZmZs7eAPSNvrjZ2kl8B39EzXYuRY0y8yFoiBiLdqjFRH4lKcFYkRAsKVLeO-jPrdEtNbsiRe_jQMWIW-qS1SfL2O6cw0cMJGObvtkicgZan9lBinWu6VpqcoI9VY1nh1AqJ9dBcJCQuFw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala Weekly Update

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

A dangerous heat wave will impact southwest and central Nebraska this weekend, with temperatures reaching into the triple digits and nighttime lows only dropping into the 70s.

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteA dangerous heat wave will impact southwest and central Nebraska this weekend, with temperatures reaching into the triple digits and nighttime lows only dropping into the 70s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655372409650.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655372428763.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655372448322.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655372469328.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Dangerous heat wave to impact southwest, central Neb. this weekend

Scotty was joined on Good Morning North Platte (FM 98.1) by Amanda from the Red Cross and Marjorie from North Platte Pickleball to talk about a blood drive coming up on June 22. Listen and follow North Platte Pickleball on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scotty was joined on Good Morning North Platte (FM 98.1) by Amanda from the Red Cross and Marjorie from North Platte Pickleball to talk about a blood drive coming up on June 22. Listen and follow North Platte Pickleball on Facebook.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: North Platte Pickleball to host blood drive at Berean Church" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=iqazr-124f572-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZAlA0ZmZs7eAPSNvrjZ2kl8B39EzXYuRY0y8yFoiBiLdqjFRH4lKcFYkRAsKVLeO-jPrdEtNbsiRe_jQMWIW-qS1SfL2O6cw0cMJGObvtkicgZan9lBinWu6VpqcoI9VY1nh1AqJ9dBcJCQuFw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Post Podcast: North Platte Pickleball to host blood drive at Berean Church

Scotty was joined on Good Morning North Platte (FM 98.1) by Gary Person from the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation to talk about a new proposed housing development on the north side of North Platte.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scotty was joined on Good Morning North Platte (FM 98.1) by Gary Person from the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation to talk about a new proposed housing development on the north side of North Platte.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: New housing development proposed for North Platte’s north side" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7bi6c-124f56b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZAlA0ZmZs7eAPSNvrjZ2kl8B39EzXYuRY0y8yFoiBiLdqjFRH4lKcFYkRAsKVLeO-jPrdEtNbsiRe_jQMWIW-qS1SfL2O6cw0cMJGObvtkicgZan9lBinWu6VpqcoI9VY1nh1AqJ9dBcJCQuFw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Post Podcast: New housing development proposed for North Platte’s north side

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and his wife have tested positive for COVID-19. 

The Republican governor revealed the development in a brief statement issued Wednesday morning and said both he and his wife, Susanne Shore, “are experiencing very minor symptoms." 

The statement said both will self-isolate in accordance with guidelines issued by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

A spokesman for Ricketts did not immediately respond to questions about when the governor tested positive or how long he and his wife plan to isolate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and his wife have tested positive for COVID-19. The Republican governor revealed the development in a brief statement issued Wednesday morning and said both he and his wife, Susanne Shore, “are experiencing very minor symptoms." The statement said both will self-isolate in accordance with guidelines issued by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A spokesman for Ricketts did not immediately respond to questions about when the governor tested positive or how long he and his wife plan to isolate.

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, wife test positive for COVID

The Nebraska State Patrol can now identify the two people killed in a two-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon near Angora on Highway 385. The driver of the other vehicle has been arrested for motor vehicle homicide.

The crash occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. MT Tuesday. Preliminary investigation shows that a southbound dump truck was attempting enter a construction site on Highway 385, when the driver failed the yield the right of way to a northbound Ford F-350. The dump truck entered the northbound lane causing a collision with the F-350. The dump truck was loaded with wet cement at the time of the crash.

The driver and rear-seat passenger of the F-350 were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver has been identified as Charles Dueker, 79, and the rear-seat passenger has been identified as Linda Dueker, 78. The Duekers’ son, Bruce Dueker, 56, was the front-seat passenger in the pickup. He has been treated and released from the hospital after suffering non-life-threatening injuries. All three are from Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The driver of the dump truck, Aldo Hernandez-Meza, 31, of Mexico, was transported to Morrill County Hospital for minor injuries. Once released from the hospital, he was arrested for motor vehicle homicide and failure to yield the right of way. He has been lodged in Morrill County Jail.

The crash remains under investigation. The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617385052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA STATE PATROLThe Nebraska State Patrol can now identify the two people killed in a two-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon near Angora on Highway 385. The driver of the other vehicle has been arrested for motor vehicle homicide.The crash occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. MT Tuesday. Preliminary investigation shows that a southbound dump truck was attempting enter a construction site on Highway 385, when the driver failed the yield the right of way to a northbound Ford F-350. The dump truck entered the northbound lane causing a collision with the F-350. The dump truck was loaded with wet cement at the time of the crash.The driver and rear-seat passenger of the F-350 were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver has been identified as Charles Dueker, 79, and the rear-seat passenger has been identified as Linda Dueker, 78. The Duekers’ son, Bruce Dueker, 56, was the front-seat passenger in the pickup. He has been treated and released from the hospital after suffering non-life-threatening injuries. All three are from Albuquerque, New Mexico.The driver of the dump truck, Aldo Hernandez-Meza, 31, of Mexico, was transported to Morrill County Hospital for minor injuries. Once released from the hospital, he was arrested for motor vehicle homicide and failure to yield the right of way. He has been lodged in Morrill County Jail.The crash remains under investigation. The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.

NSP identifies 2 killed in crash near Angora

LANE COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accient just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Lane County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford SUV driven by Austin N. Handy, 18, Dighton, was southbound on North Elm.

The driver failed to yield the right of way at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at Kanas 4. The SUV struck the driver's side of southbound 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Daniel S. Maske, 41, Hill City.

EMS transported Handy to the Lane County Hospital. Maske was not injured. Handy was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LANE COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accient just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Lane County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford SUV driven by Austin N. Handy, 18, Dighton, was southbound on North Elm.The driver failed to yield the right of way at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at Kanas 4. The SUV struck the driver's side of southbound 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Daniel S. Maske, 41, Hill City.EMS transported Handy to the Lane County Hospital. Maske was not injured. Handy was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas teen hospitalized after SUV, semi crash

Watch The Kids Costume Parade from Wednesday, June 15th!

Watch The Kids Costume Parade from Wednesday, June 15th!<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZnyPhfh5Cjw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Interviews with Squark and Squarkett<div><iframe allowfullscreen width='480' height='NaN' scrolling='no' frameborder='0' style='border: none;' src='https://www.wevideo.com/embed/#2737054476' allowfullscreen></iframe></div>&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655311325730.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Kids Costume Parade for Nebraskaland Days

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Railroad contract talks remain deadlocked after more than two years of negotiations, so President Joe Biden will likely soon have to appoint a board to help settle the dispute.

The National Mediation Board determined Tuesday that mediation isn’t working in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-2669e8de879a3ffe11f8c51be045e3e1">joint talks</a>&nbsp;that cover roughly 140,000 workers in 13 unions at the biggest freight railroads. They deliver the raw materials many companies rely upon, as well as the cars, chemicals and containers full of consumer goods the companies make.

The federal law that governs the contract talks says arbitration is the next step, but both sides have to accept that and the unions have said they won’t. That means Biden is expected to appoint a Presidential Emergency Board to investigate why the two sides haven’t been able to reach a deal and make recommendations.

The unions are optimistic that a board appointed by a self-described pro-union president will be sympathetic to their side, while helping bring the two sides closer together. That board’s recommendations are likely to trigger a new round of negotiations.

But the workers are also frustrated after not getting any raises since 2019 and enduring increasingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">strict attendance policies</a>&nbsp;that BNSF and Union Pacific have imposed. They want to be compensated for keeping the railroads running during the pandemic and they want their pay to increase enough to offset inflation.

Plus, they have seen nearly one-third of the union jobs eliminated at the major freight railroads in recent years as railroads overhauled their operations.

The unions also vehemently oppose railroad proposals to cut rail crews from two people down to one.

“The railroads have still refused to make an offer remotely close to what their employees would consider ratifying,” said Dennis Pierce, the national president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.

The unions say the tough workplace rules that BNSF and Union Pacific adopted without negotiating make it difficult to take any time off.

Rutgers University professor Todd Vachon, who teaches classes about labor relations, said the railroad contract dispute predates the recent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-4895e84ab6ed4bb61e9cb8d6c0bcfad5">spate of strikes</a>, but the ongoing labor shortages may have the unions feeling more emboldened about pressing their complaints. He said it will be interesting to see what happens if the disagreement falls to Congress to resolve because “the political stakes feel much greater now” and public support for unions is higher than in the past.

“Given that the railways extend through red states and blue states and employ workers of various political persuasions, it could make for interesting bedfellows as elected leaders jockey to position themselves in a positive light,” Vachon said.

The National Carriers’ Conference Committee that represents UP, BNSF, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern and other railroads said it’s disappointed that mediation failed.

“It remains in the best interests of all parties — and the public – to settle this dispute, provide for prompt pay increases for all rail employees, and prevent rail service disruptions,” the NCCC said.

A strike, which wouldn’t be allowed unless the presidential board fails and Congress refuses to intervene in the dispute, could prove&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-texas-strikes-a234df38fb36335dab3ceac02f45c95a">disastrous</a>&nbsp;for the fragile supply chain that is still struggling to recover from the worker shortages during the pandemic.

The railroads are already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">having trouble delivering goods</a>&nbsp;on time this year largely because they can’t hire workers quickly enough to keep their trains moving on schedule as companies try to ship more. The railroads have said the main solution to their current shipping problems will be hiring and training hundreds of additional workers — something Pierce suggests would be much easier if the railroads would offer workers a better deal.

“Treating people like this, you just can’t expect people to come work for you,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655302563345.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Railroad contract talks remain deadlocked after more than two years of negotiations, so President Joe Biden will likely soon have to appoint a board to help settle the dispute.The National Mediation Board determined Tuesday that mediation isn’t working in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-2669e8de879a3ffe11f8c51be045e3e1">joint talks</a>&nbsp;that cover roughly 140,000 workers in 13 unions at the biggest freight railroads. They deliver the raw materials many companies rely upon, as well as the cars, chemicals and containers full of consumer goods the companies make.The federal law that governs the contract talks says arbitration is the next step, but both sides have to accept that and the unions have said they won’t. That means Biden is expected to appoint a Presidential Emergency Board to investigate why the two sides haven’t been able to reach a deal and make recommendations.The unions are optimistic that a board appointed by a self-described pro-union president will be sympathetic to their side, while helping bring the two sides closer together. That board’s recommendations are likely to trigger a new round of negotiations.But the workers are also frustrated after not getting any raises since 2019 and enduring increasingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">strict attendance policies</a>&nbsp;that BNSF and Union Pacific have imposed. They want to be compensated for keeping the railroads running during the pandemic and they want their pay to increase enough to offset inflation.Plus, they have seen nearly one-third of the union jobs eliminated at the major freight railroads in recent years as railroads overhauled their operations.The unions also vehemently oppose railroad proposals to cut rail crews from two people down to one.“The railroads have still refused to make an offer remotely close to what their employees would consider ratifying,” said Dennis Pierce, the national president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.The unions say the tough workplace rules that BNSF and Union Pacific adopted without negotiating make it difficult to take any time off.Rutgers University professor Todd Vachon, who teaches classes about labor relations, said the railroad contract dispute predates the recent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-4895e84ab6ed4bb61e9cb8d6c0bcfad5">spate of strikes</a>, but the ongoing labor shortages may have the unions feeling more emboldened about pressing their complaints. He said it will be interesting to see what happens if the disagreement falls to Congress to resolve because “the political stakes feel much greater now” and public support for unions is higher than in the past.“Given that the railways extend through red states and blue states and employ workers of various political persuasions, it could make for interesting bedfellows as elected leaders jockey to position themselves in a positive light,” Vachon said.The National Carriers’ Conference Committee that represents UP, BNSF, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern and other railroads said it’s disappointed that mediation failed.“It remains in the best interests of all parties — and the public – to settle this dispute, provide for prompt pay increases for all rail employees, and prevent rail service disruptions,” the NCCC said.A strike, which wouldn’t be allowed unless the presidential board fails and Congress refuses to intervene in the dispute, could prove&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-texas-strikes-a234df38fb36335dab3ceac02f45c95a">disastrous</a>&nbsp;for the fragile supply chain that is still struggling to recover from the worker shortages during the pandemic.The railroads are already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">having trouble delivering goods</a>&nbsp;on time this year largely because they can’t hire workers quickly enough to keep their trains moving on schedule as companies try to ship more. The railroads have said the main solution to their current shipping problems will be hiring and training hundreds of additional workers — something Pierce suggests would be much easier if the railroads would offer workers a better deal.“Treating people like this, you just can’t expect people to come work for you,” he said.

Railroad talks stall, so Biden likely to pick review board

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A 34-year-old Ravenna man has been arrested after he allegedly sexually assaulted a juvenile after meeting on a dating app.

North Platte Police said on June 12, officers met with a juvenile who reported they had been sexually assaulted a few hours prior.

Police said the juvenile told officers they had been communicating with Justin Coccorese through a dating app.

Police said the juvenile and Coccorese agreed to meet in North Platte.

Police said Coccorese and the juvenile met at a park in the 800 block of East C. St. at around 3:45 a.m.

The juvenile told police they spent the next several hours walking and driving in different areas of town. The juvenile told officers that during this time, they were subjected to sexual contact by Coccorese, and the two also allegedly used methamphetamine, provided by Coccorese, together.

Law enforcement began investigating and located Coccorese's vehicle, unoccupied, near Maxwell.

On June 13, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office responded to the report of a suspicious male walking around Brady. That male was identified as Coccorese.

Coccorese was transported back to North Platte to talk with investigators.

Following further investigation, police determined there was probable cause to arrest Coccorese on suspicion of 3rd-degree sexual assault of a child, exposing a child to methamphetamine, and child enticement by an electronic device.

Coccorese was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655302050931.png" alt="Coccorese" />
 <figcaption>Coccorese</figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A 34-year-old Ravenna man has been arrested after he allegedly sexually assaulted a juvenile after meeting on a dating app.North Platte Police said on June 12, officers met with a juvenile who reported they had been sexually assaulted a few hours prior.Police said the juvenile told officers they had been communicating with Justin Coccorese through a dating app.Police said the juvenile and Coccorese agreed to meet in North Platte.Police said Coccorese and the juvenile met at a park in the 800 block of East C. St. at around 3:45 a.m.The juvenile told police they spent the next several hours walking and driving in different areas of town. The juvenile told officers that during this time, they were subjected to sexual contact by Coccorese, and the two also allegedly used methamphetamine, provided by Coccorese, together.Law enforcement began investigating and located Coccorese's vehicle, unoccupied, near Maxwell.On June 13, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office responded to the report of a suspicious male walking around Brady. That male was identified as Coccorese.Coccorese was transported back to North Platte to talk with investigators.Following further investigation, police determined there was probable cause to arrest Coccorese on suspicion of 3rd-degree sexual assault of a child, exposing a child to methamphetamine, and child enticement by an electronic device.Coccorese was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

Ravenna man arrested on child enticement, sexual assault allegations in North Platte

One person has been arrested following a crash that took the lives of two people Tuesday afternoon near Angora.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The crash occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. MT Tuesday. Preliminary investigation shows that a southbound dump truck was attempting to enter a construction zone on Highway 385, when the driver failed to yield the right of way to a northbound Ford F-350. The dump truck entered the northbound lane causing a collision with the F-350. The dump truck was loaded with wet cement at the time of the crash.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The driver and rear-seat passenger of the F-350 were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their names are being withheld at this time pending notification of family. A front-seat passenger in the F-350 was transported to Morrill County Hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The driver of the dump truck, Aldo Hernandez-Meza, 31, of Mexico, was transported to Morrill County Hospital for minor injuries. Once released from the hospital, he was arrested for motor vehicle homicide and failure to yield the right of way. He has been lodged in Morrill County Jail.&nbsp;

The crash remains under investigation. The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655290279721.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA STATE PATROLOne person has been arrested following a crash that took the lives of two people Tuesday afternoon near Angora.&nbsp;&nbsp;The crash occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. MT Tuesday. Preliminary investigation shows that a southbound dump truck was attempting to enter a construction zone on Highway 385, when the driver failed to yield the right of way to a northbound Ford F-350. The dump truck entered the northbound lane causing a collision with the F-350. The dump truck was loaded with wet cement at the time of the crash.&nbsp;&nbsp;The driver and rear-seat passenger of the F-350 were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their names are being withheld at this time pending notification of family. A front-seat passenger in the F-350 was transported to Morrill County Hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The driver of the dump truck, Aldo Hernandez-Meza, 31, of Mexico, was transported to Morrill County Hospital for minor injuries. Once released from the hospital, he was arrested for motor vehicle homicide and failure to yield the right of way. He has been lodged in Morrill County Jail.&nbsp;The crash remains under investigation. The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZAlA0ZmZs7eAPSNvrjZ2kl8B39EzXYuRY0y8yFoiBiLdqjFRH4lKcFYkRAsKVLeO-jPrdEtNbsiRe_jQMWIW-qS1SfL2O6cw0cMJGObvtkicgZan9lBinWu6VpqcoI9VY1nh1AqJ9dBcJCQuFw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Driver arrested in crash that killed 2 near Angora

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A federal judge in Nebraska removed a major obstacle for activists who want to legalize medical marijuana via a ballot campaign, ruling that petition circulators no longer have to gather signatures from at least 5% of voters in 38 or more counties.

U.S. District Judge John Gerrard issued an order Monday to temporarily bar the state from enforcing the requirement, which is enshrined in the Nebraska Constitution, to guarantee at least some buy-in from rural voters before an issue can appear on a statewide ballot.

The ruling comes at a critical time for medical marijuana supporters, who have until July 7 to submit at least 87,000 valid signatures on each of two petitions to Nebraska’s secretary of state. The campaign began with strong prospects but has struggled a bit since one of its biggest donors died, forcing organizers to rely primarily on volunteers.

In a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-lawsuits-marijuana-c9fcbb909eb10bda45bdfbc0565f7c65">lawsuit</a>, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana and the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska argued that the requirement violates free speech and equal protection rights by making some voters’ signatures more valuable than others. They argued that, for signature gathering purposes, one voter in sparsely populated Arthur County is equal to 1,216 voters in Douglas County, which includes Omaha.

“The state of Nebraska is absolutely free to require a showing of statewide support for a ballot initiative — but it may not do so based on units of dramatically differing population, resulting in discrimination among voters,” Gerrard wrote in his ruling, which will remain in effect until a final decision is made.

Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen said he’ll appeal.

Nebraska’s population is heavily concentrated in its largest and medium-sized cities. The smallest of its 93 counties are among the least-populated nationally, with several having fewer than 500 residents.

Nebraska state Sen. Anna Wishart, a leader of the campaign, said she and others still intend to gather signatures in all 93 counties, but that striking the constitutional restriction is a “big win” for Nebraskans who want legal access to the drug for medicinal use.

“Nebraskans across the state support this issue because they know a loved one, friend or neighbor, who is sick and would benefit from having access to medical cannabis,” she said.

ACLU attorney Jane Seu said the ruling will help protect direct democracy in Nebraska for all residents, regardless of where they live.

The 5% requirement has faced legal challenges before, including in 2014 when a federal judge declared it unconstitutional. An appeals court later overturned the decision on a technical, procedural matter but didn’t rule on the merits of the case.

The ACLU said courts have struck down similar requirements in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming.

Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana is circulating two complementary petitions and said it has collected a combined total of more than 80,000 signatures. The group needs 87,000 valid signatures on each petition by the deadline to qualify.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655244357200.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A federal judge in Nebraska removed a major obstacle for activists who want to legalize medical marijuana via a ballot campaign, ruling that petition circulators no longer have to gather signatures from at least 5% of voters in 38 or more counties.U.S. District Judge John Gerrard issued an order Monday to temporarily bar the state from enforcing the requirement, which is enshrined in the Nebraska Constitution, to guarantee at least some buy-in from rural voters before an issue can appear on a statewide ballot.The ruling comes at a critical time for medical marijuana supporters, who have until July 7 to submit at least 87,000 valid signatures on each of two petitions to Nebraska’s secretary of state. The campaign began with strong prospects but has struggled a bit since one of its biggest donors died, forcing organizers to rely primarily on volunteers.In a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-lawsuits-marijuana-c9fcbb909eb10bda45bdfbc0565f7c65">lawsuit</a>, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana and the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska argued that the requirement violates free speech and equal protection rights by making some voters’ signatures more valuable than others. They argued that, for signature gathering purposes, one voter in sparsely populated Arthur County is equal to 1,216 voters in Douglas County, which includes Omaha.“The state of Nebraska is absolutely free to require a showing of statewide support for a ballot initiative — but it may not do so based on units of dramatically differing population, resulting in discrimination among voters,” Gerrard wrote in his ruling, which will remain in effect until a final decision is made.Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen said he’ll appeal.Nebraska’s population is heavily concentrated in its largest and medium-sized cities. The smallest of its 93 counties are among the least-populated nationally, with several having fewer than 500 residents.Nebraska state Sen. Anna Wishart, a leader of the campaign, said she and others still intend to gather signatures in all 93 counties, but that striking the constitutional restriction is a “big win” for Nebraskans who want legal access to the drug for medicinal use.“Nebraskans across the state support this issue because they know a loved one, friend or neighbor, who is sick and would benefit from having access to medical cannabis,” she said.ACLU attorney Jane Seu said the ruling will help protect direct democracy in Nebraska for all residents, regardless of where they live.The 5% requirement has faced legal challenges before, including in 2014 when a federal judge declared it unconstitutional. An appeals court later overturned the decision on a technical, procedural matter but didn’t rule on the merits of the case.The ACLU said courts have struck down similar requirements in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming.Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana is circulating two complementary petitions and said it has collected a combined total of more than 80,000 signatures. The group needs 87,000 valid signatures on each petition by the deadline to qualify.<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Rl_HrHnoJPHQVu2KpseEVBXAeYRCSmiOIYF0ibSex_Qy6OksRKdSSenal5arIkygJ9PaAwsoBdpb6i_QtLfgQ4r26xzfYVX5JZ1yMT8sli77LfcongmQsgbQgivZpi6f6GcHg81tf9Tom462aA" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Judge lifts major obstacle for Nebraska medical pot campaign

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Chappell woman following an investigation related to purchases at the Deuel County Clerk’s Office.

The case was initially referred to NSP by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office. Investigators developed information that Polly Olson, 59, who serves as the Deuel County Clerk, had purchased more than $18,000 worth of personal items from various retailers using an official Deuel County credit card.

An arrest warrant was issued for Olson on Tuesday, June 14. Troopers arrested Olson a short time later without incident. She has been lodged in Garden County Jail for theft by unlawful taking.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607969259324.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA STATE PATROLTroopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Chappell woman following an investigation related to purchases at the Deuel County Clerk’s Office.The case was initially referred to NSP by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office. Investigators developed information that Polly Olson, 59, who serves as the Deuel County Clerk, had purchased more than $18,000 worth of personal items from various retailers using an official Deuel County credit card.An arrest warrant was issued for Olson on Tuesday, June 14. Troopers arrested Olson a short time later without incident. She has been lodged in Garden County Jail for theft by unlawful taking.<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Rl_HrHnoJPHQVu2KpseEVBXAeYRCSmiOIYF0ibSex_Qy6OksRKdSSenal5arIkygJ9PaAwsoBdpb6i_QtLfgQ4r26xzfYVX5JZ1yMT8sli77LfcongmQsgbQgivZpi6f6GcHg81tf9Tom462aA" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Deuel County Clerk accused of using County card for personal purchases

Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas are fully booked from July 1-5 for overnight campgrounds, including beach campsites.

Overnight visitors interested in visiting the two western Nebraska reservoirs for the upcoming holiday are encouraged to find alternative lodging. Find local community hotels, vacation homes by rental, cabins and private campgrounds at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2lsb3ZlbGFrZW1hYy5jb20vIn0.c4n6iuX1LAWI7cG8cHyxRIuxBPh5gh8IHWHj2Vl8UDg/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">ILoveLakeMac.com</a>. Visitors should check availability at private overnight accommodations.

Day-use activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking and bird watching remain available with no capacity limits. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9MYWtlTWNDb25hdWdoeS8ifQ.MFQbphi4yV3JzCX7m8gAuyZk5n74bZiQN6ZoqYet_QA/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/LakeMcConaughy</a>.

Those visitors with overnight reservations must check-in between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. Mountain time but are encouraged to check-in before 5 p.m. to avoid long lines at points of entry.

A park entry permit is required on all vehicles entering the recreation areas, including those with advanced camping reservations. For faster entry into the park areas, visitors are encouraged to purchase one in advance online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLm9yZy8ifQ.RnUov9q1F_8iFQRoTPA5hkiCrNR63zEk9mZEcm1AyI8/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or at a permit vendor; find a local vendor at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9wZXJtaXR2ZW5kb3JzLyJ9.wBq90KtDH_dd_7keRpVANk6JgWKIpNDO4oKjVqnwAog/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org/permitvendors</a>.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds visitors that alcohol and fireworks are prohibited at the two park areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655233122367.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKSLake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas are fully booked from July 1-5 for overnight campgrounds, including beach campsites.Overnight visitors interested in visiting the two western Nebraska reservoirs for the upcoming holiday are encouraged to find alternative lodging. Find local community hotels, vacation homes by rental, cabins and private campgrounds at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2lsb3ZlbGFrZW1hYy5jb20vIn0.c4n6iuX1LAWI7cG8cHyxRIuxBPh5gh8IHWHj2Vl8UDg/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">ILoveLakeMac.com</a>. Visitors should check availability at private overnight accommodations.Day-use activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking and bird watching remain available with no capacity limits. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9MYWtlTWNDb25hdWdoeS8ifQ.MFQbphi4yV3JzCX7m8gAuyZk5n74bZiQN6ZoqYet_QA/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/LakeMcConaughy</a>.Those visitors with overnight reservations must check-in between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. Mountain time but are encouraged to check-in before 5 p.m. to avoid long lines at points of entry.A park entry permit is required on all vehicles entering the recreation areas, including those with advanced camping reservations. For faster entry into the park areas, visitors are encouraged to purchase one in advance online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLm9yZy8ifQ.RnUov9q1F_8iFQRoTPA5hkiCrNR63zEk9mZEcm1AyI8/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or at a permit vendor; find a local vendor at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MTQuNTkzNzQwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9wZXJtaXR2ZW5kb3JzLyJ9.wBq90KtDH_dd_7keRpVANk6JgWKIpNDO4oKjVqnwAog/s/1372948182/br/132933454553-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org/permitvendors</a>.The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds visitors that alcohol and fireworks are prohibited at the two park areas.<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Rl_HrHnoJPHQVu2KpseEVBXAeYRCSmiOIYF0ibSex_Qy6OksRKdSSenal5arIkygJ9PaAwsoBdpb6i_QtLfgQ4r26xzfYVX5JZ1yMT8sli77LfcongmQsgbQgivZpi6f6GcHg81tf9Tom462aA" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala fully booked for Independence Day weekend

By GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS Governor's Weekly Column

Two hundred forty-six years ago, our Founding Fathers bravely defied the most powerful nation on earth and put pen to paper to assert an eternal, self-evident truth: All men are created equal.&nbsp; We are endowed by our Creator with inalienable rights that no government can justly take away.&nbsp; This recognition is what makes our country so unique.&nbsp; What unites us as Americans is neither religion, ancestry, nor language.&nbsp; Rather, it’s our shared commitment to the truth of equal human dignity.&nbsp; Every Independence Day, we honor the men and women who started the great American experiment all those years ago.&nbsp; And we celebrate the triumph of the principles we hold dear.&nbsp; America is at its best when we honor our founding principles; our greatest suffering and division have come from neglecting them.

In addition to celebrating Independence Day, this summer is a time to rejoice in the “new birth of freedom” that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed during his Gettysburg Address in 1863.&nbsp; In that famous speech, he looked forward to an American Republic no longer stained by slavery, with renewed “dedication to the proposition that all men are created equal.”&nbsp; Seventeen months after his speech, the Union Army won the war, bringing slavery to an end.

On June 19, 1865, news of the Emancipation Proclamation and the North’s victory in the Civil War reached Galveston, Texas, sparking celebrations as enslaved Americans received word of their freedom.&nbsp; Juneteenth commemorates this day of joy and the end of slavery.

It's a day we should all celebrate. &nbsp;Slavery is the gravest blight on our nation’s history. &nbsp;Its existence was completely contrary to our cornerstone belief that all men are created equal.

As Frederick Douglass reminded Americans, “The principles contained in the Declaration of Independence are saving principles. &nbsp;Stand by those principles, be true to them on all occasions, in all places, against all foes, and at whatever cost.”

Since before we became a state, Nebraskans have bravely sacrificed to uphold our nation’s founding principle of equality. &nbsp;The First Nebraska Regiment fought valiantly in the Union Army during the Civil War, helping to win a major battle at Fort Donelson, Tennessee in 1862.&nbsp; These volunteer soldiers helped the North triumph over the Confederacy and put an end to slavery.

Our state’s courageous patriots include generations of Black Nebraskans, who have given their lives to protect our country and its noblest ideals.&nbsp; Alfonza Davis of Omaha was a Tuskegee Airman in World War II. &nbsp;He served as a military aviator, protecting American bombers and striking Nazi targets across Europe.&nbsp; He made the ultimate sacrifice in October 1944 while flying over Italy. &nbsp;Davis Middle School in Omaha is named in his honor.&nbsp;

Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French, an Omaha resident, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.&nbsp; He was aboard the USS Gregory when it was sunk by Japanese ships during the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942.&nbsp; French ended up in the water, unhurt.&nbsp; He swam among the wreckage, helping 15 wounded U.S. sailors onto a raft. &nbsp;With the tide pulling the raft toward a shore occupied by Japanese troops, French tied a rope to his waist and personally towed the raft out to sea.&nbsp; In a feat of heroic endurance, he swam more than six hours until the sailors were rescued.&nbsp; To recognize him, Congress recently passed legislation sponsored by Nebraska Representative Don Bacon (CD-2) to rename the post office at 6223 Maple Street in Omaha’s Benson neighborhood as the “Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French Post Office.”

In the Vietnam War, Black Nebraskans served with distinction.&nbsp; James Prater received a Bronze Star in 1966.&nbsp; Blaine Wilson was awarded with the Air Force Commendation Medal in 1967.&nbsp; Omaha Central grad Milton Ross made the ultimate sacrifice in 1969 at the age of 20, only one month after entering service.&nbsp; He was honored with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart.&nbsp; Porter Pittman spent 26 months in Vietnam and was awarded a Purple Heart.&nbsp; Maurice Craddock was a decorated serviceman, receiving a National Defense Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Purple Heart.&nbsp; In the midst of the civil rights tensions of the 1960s, these young Black men from Omaha courageously heeded the call of duty to serve their country.

Staff Sergeant Lillian Clamens joined the U.S. Army Reserve after graduating from Omaha Central in 1990.&nbsp; During a mortar attack in Iraq in 2007, she sacrificed her life to shield a fellow soldier from harm.&nbsp; In March, the City of Omaha renamed a street in memory of her.

This summer, let’s give thanks for our nation’s founding principles as we light off fireworks on the Fourth of July.&nbsp; On Juneteenth, let’s celebrate the triumph of our founding truths over slavery. &nbsp;Let’s also honor the many Black heroes throughout our history who have fought so these principles could endure.&nbsp;

As always, if you have any questions, please email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS Governor's Weekly ColumnTwo hundred forty-six years ago, our Founding Fathers bravely defied the most powerful nation on earth and put pen to paper to assert an eternal, self-evident truth: All men are created equal.&nbsp; We are endowed by our Creator with inalienable rights that no government can justly take away.&nbsp; This recognition is what makes our country so unique.&nbsp; What unites us as Americans is neither religion, ancestry, nor language.&nbsp; Rather, it’s our shared commitment to the truth of equal human dignity.&nbsp; Every Independence Day, we honor the men and women who started the great American experiment all those years ago.&nbsp; And we celebrate the triumph of the principles we hold dear.&nbsp; America is at its best when we honor our founding principles; our greatest suffering and division have come from neglecting them.In addition to celebrating Independence Day, this summer is a time to rejoice in the “new birth of freedom” that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed during his Gettysburg Address in 1863.&nbsp; In that famous speech, he looked forward to an American Republic no longer stained by slavery, with renewed “dedication to the proposition that all men are created equal.”&nbsp; Seventeen months after his speech, the Union Army won the war, bringing slavery to an end.On June 19, 1865, news of the Emancipation Proclamation and the North’s victory in the Civil War reached Galveston, Texas, sparking celebrations as enslaved Americans received word of their freedom.&nbsp; Juneteenth commemorates this day of joy and the end of slavery.It's a day we should all celebrate. &nbsp;Slavery is the gravest blight on our nation’s history. &nbsp;Its existence was completely contrary to our cornerstone belief that all men are created equal.As Frederick Douglass reminded Americans, “The principles contained in the Declaration of Independence are saving principles. &nbsp;Stand by those principles, be true to them on all occasions, in all places, against all foes, and at whatever cost.”Since before we became a state, Nebraskans have bravely sacrificed to uphold our nation’s founding principle of equality. &nbsp;The First Nebraska Regiment fought valiantly in the Union Army during the Civil War, helping to win a major battle at Fort Donelson, Tennessee in 1862.&nbsp; These volunteer soldiers helped the North triumph over the Confederacy and put an end to slavery.Our state’s courageous patriots include generations of Black Nebraskans, who have given their lives to protect our country and its noblest ideals.&nbsp; Alfonza Davis of Omaha was a Tuskegee Airman in World War II. &nbsp;He served as a military aviator, protecting American bombers and striking Nazi targets across Europe.&nbsp; He made the ultimate sacrifice in October 1944 while flying over Italy. &nbsp;Davis Middle School in Omaha is named in his honor.&nbsp;Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French, an Omaha resident, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.&nbsp; He was aboard the USS Gregory when it was sunk by Japanese ships during the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942.&nbsp; French ended up in the water, unhurt.&nbsp; He swam among the wreckage, helping 15 wounded U.S. sailors onto a raft. &nbsp;With the tide pulling the raft toward a shore occupied by Japanese troops, French tied a rope to his waist and personally towed the raft out to sea.&nbsp; In a feat of heroic endurance, he swam more than six hours until the sailors were rescued.&nbsp; To recognize him, Congress recently passed legislation sponsored by Nebraska Representative Don Bacon (CD-2) to rename the post office at 6223 Maple Street in Omaha’s Benson neighborhood as the “Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French Post Office.”In the Vietnam War, Black Nebraskans served with distinction.&nbsp; James Prater received a Bronze Star in 1966.&nbsp; Blaine Wilson was awarded with the Air Force Commendation Medal in 1967.&nbsp; Omaha Central grad Milton Ross made the ultimate sacrifice in 1969 at the age of 20, only one month after entering service.&nbsp; He was honored with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart.&nbsp; Porter Pittman spent 26 months in Vietnam and was awarded a Purple Heart.&nbsp; Maurice Craddock was a decorated serviceman, receiving a National Defense Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Purple Heart.&nbsp; In the midst of the civil rights tensions of the 1960s, these young Black men from Omaha courageously heeded the call of duty to serve their country.Staff Sergeant Lillian Clamens joined the U.S. Army Reserve after graduating from Omaha Central in 1990.&nbsp; During a mortar attack in Iraq in 2007, she sacrificed her life to shield a fellow soldier from harm.&nbsp; In March, the City of Omaha renamed a street in memory of her.This summer, let’s give thanks for our nation’s founding principles as we light off fireworks on the Fourth of July.&nbsp; On Juneteenth, let’s celebrate the triumph of our founding truths over slavery. &nbsp;Let’s also honor the many Black heroes throughout our history who have fought so these principles could endure.&nbsp;As always, if you have any questions, please email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

Gov. Ricketts: Celebrating American freedom together this Summer

By HEATHER JOHNSON Mid-Plains Community College

Dr. Jody Tomanek, vice president of academic affairs and North Platte Community College, accepts the Friends of Miss Rodeo Nebraska Award Monday night during the Miss Rodeo Nebraska Pageant at NPCC’s South Campus.

Mid-Plains Community College was honored during the speech portion of the competition for going “above and beyond” to support the pageant.

The recognition was based on the college’s contribution of two-year, renewable full-tuition scholarships to every Miss Rodeo Nebraska and Miss Teen Rodeo Nebraska crowned.

Additionally, MPCC donates facilities for the pageant, clinics and meetings; dorm rooms for contestants and a bus and driver to escort visiting state queens.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655213638595.png" alt="Pictured left to right are Miss Teen Rodeo Nebraska Brooke Lehr, Tomanek, and Miss Rodeo Nebraska Bailey Lehr." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Miss Teen Rodeo Nebraska Brooke Lehr, Tomanek, and Miss Rodeo Nebraska Bailey Lehr.</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER JOHNSON Mid-Plains Community CollegeDr. Jody Tomanek, vice president of academic affairs and North Platte Community College, accepts the Friends of Miss Rodeo Nebraska Award Monday night during the Miss Rodeo Nebraska Pageant at NPCC’s South Campus.Mid-Plains Community College was honored during the speech portion of the competition for going “above and beyond” to support the pageant.The recognition was based on the college’s contribution of two-year, renewable full-tuition scholarships to every Miss Rodeo Nebraska and Miss Teen Rodeo Nebraska crowned.Additionally, MPCC donates facilities for the pageant, clinics and meetings; dorm rooms for contestants and a bus and driver to escort visiting state queens.

MPCC recognized as 'Friend of Miss Rodeo Nebraska'

After
a slight hiccup for the previously scheduled date, the National Avocado
Launching Championship has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 10th, 2022,
at the Wild West Arena, in North Platte, Nebraska, also in correlation with the
Western Nebraska Craft Beer Festival at Pals Brewing Company.

Teams
of three will compete to score the most points by launching avocados at targets
using slingshots, water balloon
launchers, resistance bands,
bulging muscles — basically, any launcher that is human- powered. No air guns, potato guns, flames, laser
beams, or booster
rockets.

This is a competition of precision using a Single Elimination Bracket. Teams will be launching at upside down cattle tanks
with point values
written on the bottom. The purpose is to accumulate points. Prize Money will be awarded
to the Final 4 teams and trophies
awarded to the Champion and Runner-up.

First place team will receive $5,000.
A true 3rd and 4th place will be determined, not by launching, but by whichever team accumulated the most points during the entire competition, will be considered 3rd place.

The competition is capped at 60 Teams. Teams will be required to attend a pre-launch meeting and mechanism inspection on competition day. Competition will begin at 8 AM Saturday
morning.

An optional
free evening event will be offered to teams and their families
on Friday night to have the
opportunity to test their mechanism at the Wild West Arena before the competition. Food and music will be provided at no charge.

Why
is this a thing? Because if there’s a
wife-carrying championship, why isn’t there an avocado launching championship? So, grab your friends, build a team with
only the strongest, gnarliest, the hardest of the hardcore, and meet us in
North Platte, Nebraska.

Teams that register for the
National Avocado Launching Championship will also be offered discounted general admission to the Western
Nebraska Craft Beer Festival.

For more information visit avocadolaunching.com or facebook.com/VisitNorthPlatte.

Questions can be sent to the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau at 308-532-4729 or <a href="mailto:info@VisitNorthPlatte.com">info@VisitNorthPlatte.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655213468981.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Play North PlatteAfter
a slight hiccup for the previously scheduled date, the National Avocado
Launching Championship has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 10th, 2022,
at the Wild West Arena, in North Platte, Nebraska, also in correlation with the
Western Nebraska Craft Beer Festival at Pals Brewing Company.Teams
of three will compete to score the most points by launching avocados at targets
using slingshots, water balloon
launchers, resistance bands,
bulging muscles — basically, any launcher that is human- powered. No air guns, potato guns, flames, laser
beams, or booster
rockets.This is a competition of precision using a Single Elimination Bracket. Teams will be launching at upside down cattle tanks
with point values
written on the bottom. The purpose is to accumulate points. Prize Money will be awarded
to the Final 4 teams and trophies
awarded to the Champion and Runner-up.First place team will receive $5,000.
A true 3rd and 4th place will be determined, not by launching, but by whichever team accumulated the most points during the entire competition, will be considered 3rd place.The competition is capped at 60 Teams. Teams will be required to attend a pre-launch meeting and mechanism inspection on competition day. Competition will begin at 8 AM Saturday
morning.An optional
free evening event will be offered to teams and their families
on Friday night to have the
opportunity to test their mechanism at the Wild West Arena before the competition. Food and music will be provided at no charge.Why
is this a thing? Because if there’s a
wife-carrying championship, why isn’t there an avocado launching championship? So, grab your friends, build a team with
only the strongest, gnarliest, the hardest of the hardcore, and meet us in
North Platte, Nebraska.Teams that register for the
National Avocado Launching Championship will also be offered discounted general admission to the Western
Nebraska Craft Beer Festival.Registration opens on June 15, 2022.For more information visit avocadolaunching.com or facebook.com/VisitNorthPlatte.Questions can be sent to the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau at 308-532-4729 or <a href="mailto:info@VisitNorthPlatte.com">info@VisitNorthPlatte.com</a>.

National Avocado Launching Champtionship rescheduled for Sept. in North Platte

MAXWELL, Neb.-The Maxwell Volunteer Fire Department is holding a gun raffle to raise funds for operations.

Tickets for the raffle can be purchased from any Maxwell firefighter for $10 each. Tickets will be limited to 400.

Up for grabs are a Ruger American 204, a Savage 110 6.5 CR, and a CZ 712 12 Guage Shotgun.

Follow their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/maxwellfireandrescue">Facebook page</a> for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655212632685.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostMAXWELL, Neb.-The Maxwell Volunteer Fire Department is holding a gun raffle to raise funds for operations.Tickets for the raffle can be purchased from any Maxwell firefighter for $10 each. Tickets will be limited to 400.Up for grabs are a Ruger American 204, a Savage 110 6.5 CR, and a CZ 712 12 Guage Shotgun.Follow their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/maxwellfireandrescue">Facebook page</a> for more information.

Maxwell Fire Dept. selling tickets for gun raffle

Great Plains Health Brain &amp; Spine is
pleased to now be serving
patients in a newly remodeled clinic on the first floor of
the Great Plains Health main campus at 601 W. Leota St., North Platte.

Dr. Lee Warren,
neurosurgeon, says the new location
puts patients first.

“Our top priority is always the patients,” Dr. Warren says. “This
new clinic offers a healing, restorative environment that was designed by my
wife Lisa to put patients at ease and make patient’s visits more efficient and
less stressful. Having our office in the same building as the lab and
diagnostic imaging services will improve the patient experience and help us take better care of them. It is incredible to have this resource for our patients right here in the North
Platte area.”

The space is more than 3,200 square feet and features a remodeled
waiting and registration area, and six exam rooms. Brain
&amp; Spine patients
can access the facility at the clinic’s east entrance, an area of
campus where there is future opportunity.

“After
we built the new hospital, we wanted to make wise use of the space we had in the original building to the east,” Ivan
Mitchell, CEO, says. “This newly designed space allows patients access to world-class
neurosurgical care in a top facility led by Dr. Warren.
This is the beginning of how we will
update the space
to best serve
our patients.”

Brain &amp; Spine
patients will be able to use a temporary drop-off location in the parking
lot just to the east of the building, facing the corner of Willow and
Leota Streets. A permanent east patient drop-off is coming in the near future.

To learn more about the clinic services or to make an appointment, call 308-568-8290.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655199340975.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Great Plains HealthGreat Plains Health Brain &amp; Spine is
pleased to now be serving
patients in a newly remodeled clinic on the first floor of
the Great Plains Health main campus at 601 W. Leota St., North Platte.Dr. Lee Warren,
neurosurgeon, says the new location
puts patients first.“Our top priority is always the patients,” Dr. Warren says. “This
new clinic offers a healing, restorative environment that was designed by my
wife Lisa to put patients at ease and make patient’s visits more efficient and
less stressful. Having our office in the same building as the lab and
diagnostic imaging services will improve the patient experience and help us take better care of them. It is incredible to have this resource for our patients right here in the North
Platte area.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655199370456.png" alt="Dr. Lee Warren, M.D." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lee Warren, M.D.</figcaption>
 </figure>The space is more than 3,200 square feet and features a remodeled
waiting and registration area, and six exam rooms. Brain
&amp; Spine patients
can access the facility at the clinic’s east entrance, an area of
campus where there is future opportunity.“After
we built the new hospital, we wanted to make wise use of the space we had in the original building to the east,” Ivan
Mitchell, CEO, says. “This newly designed space allows patients access to world-class
neurosurgical care in a top facility led by Dr. Warren.
This is the beginning of how we will
update the space
to best serve
our patients.”Brain &amp; Spine
patients will be able to use a temporary drop-off location in the parking
lot just to the east of the building, facing the corner of Willow and
Leota Streets. A permanent east patient drop-off is coming in the near future.To learn more about the clinic services or to make an appointment, call 308-568-8290.

Great Plains Health Brain & Spine opens at new location

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, co-chairperson of the Republican Governors Association and a pro-gun rights and anti-abortion conservative, has canceled his planned appearance in Connecticut on Tuesday at a fundraising event for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Stefanowski.

Liz Kurantowicz, Stefanowski’s senior advisor, said Monday that Ricketts “had a scheduling conflict” and cannot attend. The event, however, will still take place at a residence in Canton without Ricketts, she said.

A message was left seeking comment with Ricketts’ media spokesperson. An official schedule shows he has a news conference on Tuesday in Nebraska to discuss the opening of a state transportation operations center and “out-of-state travel” commitments for the rest of the week.

Ricketts’ planned appearance, first announced last month, has drawn criticism from state Democrats who labeled the Nebraska governor an “extremist” and questioned why Stefanowski would want to host a governor who said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-legislature-nebraska-pete-ricketts-filibusters-354c7f9cec85d71f34d3898206fc9841">wants his state to outlaw abortion</a>&nbsp;if Roe v. Wade is overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. The planned visit prompted local Democrats to organize a “Rally for Choice and Gun Safety” at a school that’s near the fundraiser.

Katie Kenny, chair of the Canton Democratic Town Committee, said Monday the group still plans to hold its rally even though Ricketts won’t be coming.

“I believe that they thought that they could play a double game, where they’re saying that they’re moderate on these issues, but simultaneously raising money off bringing someone who is basically red meat for their base and who would fire people up and get people to donate a lot to Stefanowski,” she said. “And when they got caught, they backed out.”

Asked whether the planned protest had anything to do with Rickett’s cancellation, Kurantowicz repeated her earlier, brief statement about the governor having a scheduling conflict.

As a Republican in Connecticut, a state more politically liberal, Stefanowski has taken nuanced positions on some hot-button social issues. For example, on abortion, Stefanowski said last month he would not attempt to change existing Connecticut law — the state codified Roe in state law in 1990 — but thought the state “should consider” legislation that would impose a parental notification requirement for minors under age 16, except in cases of rape or incest.

Endorsed by the National Rifle Association in 2018 when he last ran for governor, Stefanowski this month said he’s “committed to enforce the existing Connecticut gun laws, they’re strongest in the nation.” But he noted, “I don’t think we should be talking about a lot of changes right now until we enforce what we have.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSNebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, co-chairperson of the Republican Governors Association and a pro-gun rights and anti-abortion conservative, has canceled his planned appearance in Connecticut on Tuesday at a fundraising event for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Stefanowski.Liz Kurantowicz, Stefanowski’s senior advisor, said Monday that Ricketts “had a scheduling conflict” and cannot attend. The event, however, will still take place at a residence in Canton without Ricketts, she said.A message was left seeking comment with Ricketts’ media spokesperson. An official schedule shows he has a news conference on Tuesday in Nebraska to discuss the opening of a state transportation operations center and “out-of-state travel” commitments for the rest of the week.Ricketts’ planned appearance, first announced last month, has drawn criticism from state Democrats who labeled the Nebraska governor an “extremist” and questioned why Stefanowski would want to host a governor who said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-legislature-nebraska-pete-ricketts-filibusters-354c7f9cec85d71f34d3898206fc9841">wants his state to outlaw abortion</a>&nbsp;if Roe v. Wade is overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. The planned visit prompted local Democrats to organize a “Rally for Choice and Gun Safety” at a school that’s near the fundraiser.Katie Kenny, chair of the Canton Democratic Town Committee, said Monday the group still plans to hold its rally even though Ricketts won’t be coming.“I believe that they thought that they could play a double game, where they’re saying that they’re moderate on these issues, but simultaneously raising money off bringing someone who is basically red meat for their base and who would fire people up and get people to donate a lot to Stefanowski,” she said. “And when they got caught, they backed out.”Asked whether the planned protest had anything to do with Rickett’s cancellation, Kurantowicz repeated her earlier, brief statement about the governor having a scheduling conflict.As a Republican in Connecticut, a state more politically liberal, Stefanowski has taken nuanced positions on some hot-button social issues. For example, on abortion, Stefanowski said last month he would not attempt to change existing Connecticut law — the state codified Roe in state law in 1990 — but thought the state “should consider” legislation that would impose a parental notification requirement for minors under age 16, except in cases of rape or incest.Endorsed by the National Rifle Association in 2018 when he last ran for governor, Stefanowski this month said he’s “committed to enforce the existing Connecticut gun laws, they’re strongest in the nation.” But he noted, “I don’t think we should be talking about a lot of changes right now until we enforce what we have.”<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Rl_HrHnoJPHQVu2KpseEVBXAeYRCSmiOIYF0ibSex_Qy6OksRKdSSenal5arIkygJ9PaAwsoBdpb6i_QtLfgQ4r26xzfYVX5JZ1yMT8sli77LfcongmQsgbQgivZpi6f6GcHg81tf9Tom462aA" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Nebraska governor nixes Connecticut appearance amid protests

Cody Sosebee joined Paxton. Cody Sosebee will be the barrelman and rodeo clown for the Buffalo Bill rodeo during Nebraskaland Days.

Cody Sosebee joined Paxton. Cody Sosebee will be the barrelman and rodeo clown for the Buffalo Bill rodeo during Nebraskaland Days.<div><iframe title="Buffalo Bill Rodeo Barrelman and Rodeo Clown Cody Sosebee" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=zggs3-124ccf1-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div>

Buffalo Bill Rodeo Barrelman and Rodeo Clown Cody Sosebee 

Rider Kiesner joined Paxton. Rider Kiesner will be performing the specialty act for the Buffalo Bill rodeo during Nebraskaland Days.

Rider Kiesner joined Paxton. Rider Kiesner will be performing the specialty act for the Buffalo Bill rodeo during Nebraskaland Days.<div><iframe title="Buffalo Bill Rodeo Specialty Act Rider Kiesner" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=z8hch-124cc9c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div>

Buffalo Bill Rodeo Specialty Act Rider Kiesner

OGALLALA, Neb.-If you'll be traveling to or from Ogallala at night in the near future, be aware of some continuing construction.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) said their contractor, Koss Construction of Topeka, Kansas, will resume work on Interstate 80 on June 14, west of Ogallala.

Officials said traffic will remain in the current configuration with two-lane, two-way traffic on the eastbound lanes. An 11-foot width restriction remains in place.

NDOT reminds motorists to drive cautiously in work zones, buckle up, and put their phones down.

Officials said two-way, two-lane traffic is expected to be in place until late October of 2022.

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostOGALLALA, Neb.-If you'll be traveling to or from Ogallala at night in the near future, be aware of some continuing construction.The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) said their contractor, Koss Construction of Topeka, Kansas, will resume work on Interstate 80 on June 14, west of Ogallala.Officials said traffic will remain in the current configuration with two-lane, two-way traffic on the eastbound lanes. An 11-foot width restriction remains in place.NDOT reminds motorists to drive cautiously in work zones, buckle up, and put their phones down.Officials said two-way, two-lane traffic is expected to be in place until late October of 2022.

Night work to continue on I-80 near Ogallala

News Release North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Since its inception in 2006, the Improvement Fund of the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitor’s Bureau has awarded more than $2.5 million to Lincoln County organizations for brick-and-mortar improvements and expansions to local attractions and visitor services. The Improvement Fund process is governed by the Nebraska Visitors Development Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §81-3701 through 81-3724, et seq.

Due to the overwhelming number of applicants seeking these funds, the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee has implemented an intent to apply requirement to the application process.

An “intent to apply” in the form of a letter must be sent to the NP/LCVB by July 1, 2022, stating an estimate of the amount to be requested in the grant application, the total project cost, a brief description of the proposed project and the organizations involved in the project. Organizations that do not submit an intent to apply will not be eligible for submitting an application for Improvement Funds. Qualified organizations are 501(c)3, not-for-profit, or divisions of local government.

Following a review of the intent to apply, the staff of the NP/LCVB will schedule a meeting with potential applicants to discuss the project and determine if it is eligible for funding under the guidelines of the Nebraska Visitors Development Act.

The intent to apply must be returned to the NP/LCVB office by Friday, July 1, 2022. For those projects given approval to submit a full application, the application will be made available immediately upon approval, and the due date will be September 30, 2022. Organizations that do not submit an intent to apply or miss the deadline will not be able to submit a grant application for Improvement Funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655140429636.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors BureauNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Since its inception in 2006, the Improvement Fund of the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitor’s Bureau has awarded more than $2.5 million to Lincoln County organizations for brick-and-mortar improvements and expansions to local attractions and visitor services. The Improvement Fund process is governed by the Nebraska Visitors Development Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §81-3701 through 81-3724, et seq.Due to the overwhelming number of applicants seeking these funds, the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee has implemented an intent to apply requirement to the application process.An “intent to apply” in the form of a letter must be sent to the NP/LCVB by July 1, 2022, stating an estimate of the amount to be requested in the grant application, the total project cost, a brief description of the proposed project and the organizations involved in the project. Organizations that do not submit an intent to apply will not be eligible for submitting an application for Improvement Funds. Qualified organizations are 501(c)3, not-for-profit, or divisions of local government.Following a review of the intent to apply, the staff of the NP/LCVB will schedule a meeting with potential applicants to discuss the project and determine if it is eligible for funding under the guidelines of the Nebraska Visitors Development Act.The intent to apply must be returned to the NP/LCVB office by Friday, July 1, 2022. For those projects given approval to submit a full application, the application will be made available immediately upon approval, and the due date will be September 30, 2022. Organizations that do not submit an intent to apply or miss the deadline will not be able to submit a grant application for Improvement Funds.For more information contact Lisa Burke or Amanda Connick at the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau at 101 Halligan Drive, 308.532.4729,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lburke@visitnorthplatte.com" target="_blank">lburke@visitnorthplatte.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aconnick@visitnorthplatte.com" target="_blank">aconnick@visitnorthplatte.com</a>.

Local