The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider recommendations for 2023 wild turkey hunting seasons at its June 17 meeting in Lexington.

The meeting begins at 8 a.m. Central Time at the Holiday Inn Express, 2605 Plum Creek Parkway.

Turkey populations in Nebraska have declined 45% since their peak between 2008 to 2010. Because of that, staff will recommend changes to regulations and orders that include reducing the spring season personal permit limit from three to two, lowering the fall bag limit from two to one, shortening the fall season to Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, and requiring all turkeys be checked via phone or internet beginning with the Spring 2023 season.

Staff also will recommend a mountain lion season in the Pine Ridge similar to 2022, with a maximum harvest of four cats, with a sub-limit of two females. The number of permits issued via lottery will be recommended to be lowered from 320 to 200 for the 2023 season. This change is an effort to boost hunter satisfaction by increasing the probability of a longer season. The harvest objective is to allow the mountain lion population to remain resilient and healthy, while halting growth or moderately reducing the population size. The most recent estimate for the Pine Ridge population from the 2021 genetic survey is 33 mountain lions.

The Commission also will consider approving a 2022 river otter trapping season. The proposed season would be Nov. 1, 2022, through Feb. 28, 2023, or close earlier once 125 otters have been harvested, all other checking requirements will remain the same as last year.

Additionally, the commissioners will consider changes to wildlife regulations that would:

In other business, staff will recommend changes to sportfishing regulations that would make it legal to possess and transport live grass carp and amend the list of water bodies where live baitfish may be possessed or used.

Staff also will provide a report on the Aquatic Habitat Program and an update on communications efforts in west-central Nebraska.

A complete meeting agenda can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MDguNTkxMTA0NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvcHVibGljbm90aWNlcy8ifQ.Ai8lo4Aga9azmW28_DQ0aeGrOpnoaVl2YNbYSf5P0aU/s/1372948182/br/132610890760-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/publicnotices</a>. The proposed changes to Commission regulations and orders can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MDguNTkxMTA0NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvcmVndWxhdGlvbnMifQ.M2ACGvO4E3HsUT63Ep2Jlzm7j0x0vHbwqvxGEbccC6A/s/1372948182/br/132610890760-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/regulations</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646694161264.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKSThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider recommendations for 2023 wild turkey hunting seasons at its June 17 meeting in Lexington.The meeting begins at 8 a.m. Central Time at the Holiday Inn Express, 2605 Plum Creek Parkway.Turkey populations in Nebraska have declined 45% since their peak between 2008 to 2010. Because of that, staff will recommend changes to regulations and orders that include reducing the spring season personal permit limit from three to two, lowering the fall bag limit from two to one, shortening the fall season to Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, and requiring all turkeys be checked via phone or internet beginning with the Spring 2023 season.Staff also will recommend a mountain lion season in the Pine Ridge similar to 2022, with a maximum harvest of four cats, with a sub-limit of two females. The number of permits issued via lottery will be recommended to be lowered from 320 to 200 for the 2023 season. This change is an effort to boost hunter satisfaction by increasing the probability of a longer season. The harvest objective is to allow the mountain lion population to remain resilient and healthy, while halting growth or moderately reducing the population size. The most recent estimate for the Pine Ridge population from the 2021 genetic survey is 33 mountain lions.The Commission also will consider approving a 2022 river otter trapping season. The proposed season would be Nov. 1, 2022, through Feb. 28, 2023, or close earlier once 125 otters have been harvested, all other checking requirements will remain the same as last year.Additionally, the commissioners will consider changes to wildlife regulations that would:<ul>
 <li>Allow for parcel identification numbers to be used on limited landowner hunting permits beginning January 2023.</li><li>Make it unlawful to possess night vision scopes while hunting game animals and game birds.</li><li>Clarify language to allow elk hunters to hunt with a centerfire rifle during the November firearm deer season.</li><li>Add language to make it illegal to create a baited area on lands owned or controlled by Game and Parks.</li><li>Make it mandatory to check all turkeys after Feb. 1, 2023.</li><li>Allow antelope taken during the October firearm season to be checked in via telephone or internet.</li><li>Clarify language that animals trapped must be removed when checking traps.</li><li>Add the U.S. Forest Service to federal lands where it is unlawful to set body-gripping traps with a jaw spreader larger than 5 inches, with exceptions.</li><li>Changing the Novice Hunter Education Program for upland game birds to be open to all ages and extend the dates.</li><li>Clarify language in the Hunters Helping the Hungry program on record keeping and reimbursement processes.</li>
 </ul>In other business, staff will recommend changes to sportfishing regulations that would make it legal to possess and transport live grass carp and amend the list of water bodies where live baitfish may be possessed or used.Staff also will provide a report on the Aquatic Habitat Program and an update on communications efforts in west-central Nebraska.A complete meeting agenda can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MDguNTkxMTA0NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvcHVibGljbm90aWNlcy8ifQ.Ai8lo4Aga9azmW28_DQ0aeGrOpnoaVl2YNbYSf5P0aU/s/1372948182/br/132610890760-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/publicnotices</a>. The proposed changes to Commission regulations and orders can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MDguNTkxMTA0NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvcmVndWxhdGlvbnMifQ.M2ACGvO4E3HsUT63Ep2Jlzm7j0x0vHbwqvxGEbccC6A/s/1372948182/br/132610890760-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/regulations</a>.

Neb. commissioners to consider changes to wild turkey seasons for 2023

A man was shot at Sheridan County Livestock this afternoon in Rushville.

"An adult male was shot and the victim has been transported to the hospital," said Sheridan County Sheriff's Office.

His condition is not known at this time.&nbsp;

The suspect was taken into custody.&nbsp;

No names or further information has been released at this time.&nbsp;

"We wanted to let everyone know...and assure you, there is no threat to the community," Sheridan County Sheriff's Office said.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostA man was shot at Sheridan County Livestock this afternoon in Rushville."An adult male was shot and the victim has been transported to the hospital," said Sheridan County Sheriff's Office.His condition is not known at this time.&nbsp;The suspect was taken into custody.&nbsp;No names or further information has been released at this time.&nbsp;"We wanted to let everyone know...and assure you, there is no threat to the community," Sheridan County Sheriff's Office said.&nbsp;

Man shot at Sheridan County Livestock in Rushville

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police have arrested a Rapid City man after he allegedly fired shots at construction workers along a highway. 

The Rapid City Journal reports the Pennington County Sheriff's Department responded Monday afternoon to reports of a man shooting at construction workers along State Highway 79 south of Rapid City. 

A sheriff's spokeswoman says it appears the man has no connection to the workers.

 State troopers converged on the area and arrested the 53-year-old man. No one was hurt.

By Associated PressRAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police have arrested a Rapid City man after he allegedly fired shots at construction workers along a highway. The Rapid City Journal reports the Pennington County Sheriff's Department responded Monday afternoon to reports of a man shooting at construction workers along State Highway 79 south of Rapid City. A sheriff's spokeswoman says it appears the man has no connection to the workers. State troopers converged on the area and arrested the 53-year-old man. No one was hurt.

Man arrested after shooting at construction workers near Rapid City

Story by&nbsp;North Platte Area Sports Commission

The Nebraska Baseball Academy returns to North Platte for an All-Skills Satellite Camp this summer! The North Platte camp will be held on Tuesday, June 28th, at Bill Wood Field, home of the North Platte FNBO Nationals American Legion Baseball Team and the new North Platte Plainsmen Wooden Bat League.&nbsp;The camp begins at 9am and concludes at 2:30pm.&nbsp;Lunch is provided to all participants.

Camp is open to 2nd&nbsp;graders – High School Seniors.&nbsp;Groups will be determined by age group and those attending will work on all areas of the game…. from throwing, hitting, pitching, base running, outfield work, infield work and catching. Autographs and merchandise will be available after camp!

We encourage you to visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://bigredacademy.com/" target="_blank">bigredacademy.com</a>.&nbsp;Here you will find additional information on the North Platte Satellite Camp along with a link for online registration.

If you have questions, please contact Renee Brinkmann;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:baseball@bigredacademy.com" target="_blank">baseball@bigredacademy.com</a>&nbsp;or 402-413-8881, or local event coordinator, Samantha Geisler with the North Platte Area Sports Commission; (308)221-6865 or SGeisler@PlayNorthPlatte.com

Register TODAY…..it’s a fun day at the ballpark!

Story by&nbsp;North Platte Area Sports CommissionThe Nebraska Baseball Academy returns to North Platte for an All-Skills Satellite Camp this summer! The North Platte camp will be held on Tuesday, June 28th, at Bill Wood Field, home of the North Platte FNBO Nationals American Legion Baseball Team and the new North Platte Plainsmen Wooden Bat League.&nbsp;The camp begins at 9am and concludes at 2:30pm.&nbsp;Lunch is provided to all participants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654707009834.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Camp is open to 2nd&nbsp;graders – High School Seniors.&nbsp;Groups will be determined by age group and those attending will work on all areas of the game…. from throwing, hitting, pitching, base running, outfield work, infield work and catching. Autographs and merchandise will be available after camp!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654706994271.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We encourage you to visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://bigredacademy.com/" target="_blank">bigredacademy.com</a>.&nbsp;Here you will find additional information on the North Platte Satellite Camp along with a link for online registration.If you have questions, please contact Renee Brinkmann;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:baseball@bigredacademy.com" target="_blank">baseball@bigredacademy.com</a>&nbsp;or 402-413-8881, or local event coordinator, Samantha Geisler with the North Platte Area Sports Commission; (308)221-6865 or SGeisler@PlayNorthPlatte.comRegister TODAY…..it’s a fun day at the ballpark!

The Nebraska Baseball Academy returns to North Platte for an All-Skills Satellite Camp

A previous Hemingford resident has created a challenge grant to the Hemingford community. The generous donor will provide a $10,000 grant to the Hemingford Community Foundation (HCF) if they can raise $10,000. The committee is so excited they are already over halfway to the goal.&nbsp;

“We were approached last Thursday with a challenge grant to the Foundation, and we are so excited that we’ve already raised $5,600 towards the $10,000 match! Generous organizations, businesses, and individuals are pitching in to help us reach, and ideally surpass this challenge,” said Will Mahony, HCF Board Member.

-Farmers Coop,&nbsp;$2,500 -Hemingford Telephone Company,&nbsp;$1,000 -Nebraska Bank, $500 -Raben’s Market, $500 -Mahony Commodities LLC, $500 -Will Mahony, $500 -Donnie &amp; Joni Jespersen, $250 -Lois Pfeiffer, $100 -Gina Jespersen, $50 -Taylor Jespersen, $50 -Avery Davies, $50 -Berkley Davies, $50 -Daxton Davies, $50

If you or your business is interested in donating to this exciting challenge grant to benefit Hemingford projects, complete the online form here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aplos.com/aws/give/OTCF/Hemingford-Community-Foundation" target="_blank">https://www.aplos.com/aws/give/OTCF/Hemingford-Community-Foundation</a>&nbsp;or call 308-487-5500 or stop in and visit with Joni Jespersen at Mobius/Hemingford Telephone Company.

The committee has been working hard to achieve the goals they set for 2022 after being on a hiatus for the past couple of years. They held their annual fundraiser, raising enough funds to give out three mini-grants. They are thrilled to see the completion of the “Hemingford is Home” sign with donors from the brick campaign. This recent challenge grant will seed many exciting Hemingford-specific projects in the coming months.

The board is comprised of Jessica Davies, April Delsing, Joni Jespersen, Will Mahony, Tonya Mayer, and Tabi Prochazka. They have been meeting monthly to serve the residents of Hemingford and the surrounding area by identifying and supporting the people, organizations, and projects that make Hemingford a great place to live, learn, work, and play.&nbsp;Strategic planning will occur soon, and we invite the community to reach out to any board members to discuss how the Foundation can be of service.

The Foundation is an affiliate fund of the Oregon Trail Community Foundation. Visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="https://otcf.org/hemingford-community-foundation/" target="_blank">https://otcf.org/hemingford-community-foundation/</a>. &nbsp;

By PPHDA previous Hemingford resident has created a challenge grant to the Hemingford community. The generous donor will provide a $10,000 grant to the Hemingford Community Foundation (HCF) if they can raise $10,000. The committee is so excited they are already over halfway to the goal.&nbsp;“We were approached last Thursday with a challenge grant to the Foundation, and we are so excited that we’ve already raised $5,600 towards the $10,000 match! Generous organizations, businesses, and individuals are pitching in to help us reach, and ideally surpass this challenge,” said Will Mahony, HCF Board Member.Donors so far include:-Farmers Coop,&nbsp;$2,500 -Hemingford Telephone Company,&nbsp;$1,000 -Nebraska Bank, $500 -Raben’s Market, $500 -Mahony Commodities LLC, $500 -Will Mahony, $500 -Donnie &amp; Joni Jespersen, $250 -Lois Pfeiffer, $100 -Gina Jespersen, $50 -Taylor Jespersen, $50 -Avery Davies, $50 -Berkley Davies, $50 -Daxton Davies, $50If you or your business is interested in donating to this exciting challenge grant to benefit Hemingford projects, complete the online form here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aplos.com/aws/give/OTCF/Hemingford-Community-Foundation" target="_blank">https://www.aplos.com/aws/give/OTCF/Hemingford-Community-Foundation</a>&nbsp;or call 308-487-5500 or stop in and visit with Joni Jespersen at Mobius/Hemingford Telephone Company.The committee has been working hard to achieve the goals they set for 2022 after being on a hiatus for the past couple of years. They held their annual fundraiser, raising enough funds to give out three mini-grants. They are thrilled to see the completion of the “Hemingford is Home” sign with donors from the brick campaign. This recent challenge grant will seed many exciting Hemingford-specific projects in the coming months.The board is comprised of Jessica Davies, April Delsing, Joni Jespersen, Will Mahony, Tonya Mayer, and Tabi Prochazka. They have been meeting monthly to serve the residents of Hemingford and the surrounding area by identifying and supporting the people, organizations, and projects that make Hemingford a great place to live, learn, work, and play.&nbsp;Strategic planning will occur soon, and we invite the community to reach out to any board members to discuss how the Foundation can be of service.The Foundation is an affiliate fund of the Oregon Trail Community Foundation. Visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="https://otcf.org/hemingford-community-foundation/" target="_blank">https://otcf.org/hemingford-community-foundation/</a>. &nbsp;

Anonymous donor challenges Hemingford community to match donation

New Release North Platte Police Department

The North Platte Police Department participated in
the Nebraska Click It or Ticket Mobilization, which took place from May 23rd
to June 5th, 2022. Officers from the department stepped up their
traffic enforcement during this two-week period. A total of 36 citations were issued for various
traffic-related offenses. Among the citations written include:

5 citations were written for seatbelt and child restraint
violations 14 speeding tickets 4 driving under suspension citations 1 citation for possession of Marijuana.

Twelve other citations were issued for various other
offenses, and a total of 95 traffic
stops were conducted.

Four DUI arrests were made during the grant period.
Officers working the federally funded grant assisted in the apprehension of two
persons on warrants, one for a federal violation.

Grant-funded officers also assisted in the
apprehension of two burglary suspects who, in addition to burglary, were also charged
with one count each of felon in possession of a weapon and possession of burglary tools 

<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/2022/6/1654697101401.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>New Release North Platte Police DepartmentThe North Platte Police Department participated in
the Nebraska Click It or Ticket Mobilization, which took place from May 23rd
to June 5th, 2022. Officers from the department stepped up their
traffic enforcement during this two-week period. A total of 36 citations were issued for various
traffic-related offenses. Among the citations written include: 5 citations were written for seatbelt and child restraint
violations 14 speeding tickets 4 driving under suspension citations 1 citation for possession of Marijuana.Twelve other citations were issued for various other
offenses, and a total of 95 traffic
stops were conducted.Four DUI arrests were made during the grant period.
Officers working the federally funded grant assisted in the apprehension of two
persons on warrants, one for a federal violation.Grant-funded officers also assisted in the
apprehension of two burglary suspects who, in addition to burglary, were also charged
with one count each of felon in possession of a weapon and possession of burglary tools <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://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xFobReEJFg6vBEx_UhWUDihkNErsoGqZZ3PP1mq8ITtG1dpkMFSHDrf3pBpR9d00aC4-wTVYpU8J2bJw87_6VVmsPfXgQUCHyutkXSBf2n4W98u-e1QgTmh0MVBZ9QNoRlE8tCUDTsrUggaG9w" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte police conduct 95 stops, issue 24 citations during Click It or Ticket campaign

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-After a nationwide search, Great Plains
Health is pleased to announce
a new addition to its executive
team. Summer Owen, MBA, will assume the role of chief financial officer on June
13.

Owen has 18 years
of experience in healthcare finance,
including eight years
in a chief financial officer role with LifePoint Health in Fort
Morgan, Colo.

“Summer has a true talent for driving financial
performance and process
improvement,” Ivan Mitchell, CEO, says. “She is already an asset
to our team, and we are confident in the wealth of knowledge and leadership she
brings to Great Plains Health.”

In her previous role,
Owen led financial and support operations for a 50 acute bed hospital, geriatric behavioral health
unit, home care agency, and multi-specialty physician group with multiple
outreach locations.

Owen’s specialties include operations management, budgeting, capital
planning, and cost containment.

“Joining the team at Great Plains
Health is an exciting step,” Owen says. “I am impressed by this organization’s
commitment to the health and wellbeing of Greater Nebraska. I am eager to contribute to the continued
success of Great Plains
Health and this community.”

Owen holds a master
of business administration degree in finance
and accounting from Regis University and a bachelor of
science degree in business from the University of Phoenix. She is also a member
of the American College of Healthcare Executives and Healthcare Financial
Management Association.

Owen is excited to make North Platte her home and learn more about the community.
Owen and her husband enjoy fishing, camping, and spending time with family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654696813622.png" alt="Owen" />
 <figcaption>Owen</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Great Plains HealthNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-After a nationwide search, Great Plains
Health is pleased to announce
a new addition to its executive
team. Summer Owen, MBA, will assume the role of chief financial officer on June
13.Owen has 18 years
of experience in healthcare finance,
including eight years
in a chief financial officer role with LifePoint Health in Fort
Morgan, Colo.“Summer has a true talent for driving financial
performance and process
improvement,” Ivan Mitchell, CEO, says. “She is already an asset
to our team, and we are confident in the wealth of knowledge and leadership she
brings to Great Plains Health.”In her previous role,
Owen led financial and support operations for a 50 acute bed hospital, geriatric behavioral health
unit, home care agency, and multi-specialty physician group with multiple
outreach locations.Owen’s specialties include operations management, budgeting, capital
planning, and cost containment.“Joining the team at Great Plains
Health is an exciting step,” Owen says. “I am impressed by this organization’s
commitment to the health and wellbeing of Greater Nebraska. I am eager to contribute to the continued
success of Great Plains
Health and this community.”Owen holds a master
of business administration degree in finance
and accounting from Regis University and a bachelor of
science degree in business from the University of Phoenix. She is also a member
of the American College of Healthcare Executives and Healthcare Financial
Management Association.Owen is excited to make North Platte her home and learn more about the community.
Owen and her husband enjoy fishing, camping, and spending time with family.<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://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xFobReEJFg6vBEx_UhWUDihkNErsoGqZZ3PP1mq8ITtG1dpkMFSHDrf3pBpR9d00aC4-wTVYpU8J2bJw87_6VVmsPfXgQUCHyutkXSBf2n4W98u-e1QgTmh0MVBZ9QNoRlE8tCUDTsrUggaG9w" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Plains Health announces hiring of new CFO

By GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS Governor's Weekly Column

Mental illness is a national public health issue that affects Nebraska as well.&nbsp; During my time as Governor, we’ve made mental health a priority and have rolled out several programs to identify mental illness and get Nebraska’s students, veterans, and others the care they need. &nbsp;

As a result of these efforts,&nbsp;U.S. News and World Report&nbsp;now ranks Nebraska as having the fourth-best mental health in the nation.&nbsp; However, we still have plenty of room for improvement.&nbsp; As we work to prevent mental illness across the state, we’re giving special attention to the mental health of our military members, our veterans, and our youth.&nbsp;

Prioritizing Mental Health: Service Members, Veterans, and their Families

The call to defend our country comes with a cost.&nbsp; Many of our veterans bear the physical or psychological scars of service.&nbsp;

I know from personal experience that our service members often see it as a sign of weakness to ask for help with mental health problems.&nbsp; But asking for help is a sign of wisdom, not of weakness. &nbsp;If you broke your arm, you’d go to the doctor.&nbsp; You wouldn’t try to dress the wound and put on a splint yourself.&nbsp; The same is true for mental health.&nbsp; When we have an issue, it’s important to seek immediate help from a medical professional. &nbsp;

In Nebraska, we do a fantastic job of taking care of our veterans.&nbsp; SmartAsset just ranked us as the fourth-best state in America for veterans.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) provides excellent service to the men and women who’ve put on the cloth to defend our nation, and the agency is constantly looking for ways to do even more to serve our heroes.&nbsp;

On June 6th, we took another step forward by launching the&nbsp;Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families.&nbsp; It’s part of a national effort to make mental health services more readily available.&nbsp; In Nebraska, the initiative will be led by NDVA and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Behavioral Health Division.&nbsp; It’s being spearheaded by 29 teammates and will span two years.&nbsp; This cooperative effort will involve strategic planning, setting action steps to chart the way forward, and measuring progress to hold ourselves accountable for making improvement to the care we provide our service members.

Half of all lifetime mental health illness starts by age 14, and the effects can be devastating. &nbsp;Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for Americans ages 10-14 and the third-leading cause of death for those 15-24 years old.

The pandemic has intensified the mental health challenges of our youth. &nbsp;School closures caused kids to be isolated from peers, teachers, and coaches.&nbsp; This had a profoundly negative impact not only on their education but also on their mental well-being.&nbsp; Children’s hospitals in America report that the number of self-harm and suicide cases increased 45% from 2019 to 2021 among 5-17 year-olds. &nbsp;

To address this challenge, we took major strides this legislative session to expand access to pediatric mental healthcare in Nebraska.&nbsp; The State allocated $10 million of ARPA funds toward the construction of a behavioral health center for children ages 5-18 at CHI Immanuel;&nbsp;$10 million to expand a youth mental health development day school at Boys Town; and $10 million to&nbsp;Children’s Hospital as it develops urgent care centers to address pediatric mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS is also providing an additional $1.8 million to Children’s Hospital for telehealth technology to support pediatric mental health services.&nbsp;

Additionally, the State continues to partner with nonprofits, behavioral healthcare providers, and schools to help prevent suicides.&nbsp; Here are some of our primary efforts:

We’re fully invested in preventing and treating mental illness in Nebraska. &nbsp;But the State cannot do this alone. &nbsp;It takes involvement from everyone – nonprofits, educators, medical professionals, family members, and peers – to identify signs of mental illness and to encourage those dealing with it to get the help they need. &nbsp;In the coming months, we will continue to evaluate our mental health training and services to make sure Nebraska is taking care of our own.

If you want to learn more about the State’s work to support mental health, email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="Governor Ricketts" />
 <figcaption>Governor Ricketts</figcaption>
 </figure>By GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS Governor's Weekly ColumnMental illness is a national public health issue that affects Nebraska as well.&nbsp; During my time as Governor, we’ve made mental health a priority and have rolled out several programs to identify mental illness and get Nebraska’s students, veterans, and others the care they need. &nbsp;As a result of these efforts,&nbsp;U.S. News and World Report&nbsp;now ranks Nebraska as having the fourth-best mental health in the nation.&nbsp; However, we still have plenty of room for improvement.&nbsp; As we work to prevent mental illness across the state, we’re giving special attention to the mental health of our military members, our veterans, and our youth.&nbsp;Prioritizing Mental Health: Service Members, Veterans, and their FamiliesThe call to defend our country comes with a cost.&nbsp; Many of our veterans bear the physical or psychological scars of service.&nbsp;I know from personal experience that our service members often see it as a sign of weakness to ask for help with mental health problems.&nbsp; But asking for help is a sign of wisdom, not of weakness. &nbsp;If you broke your arm, you’d go to the doctor.&nbsp; You wouldn’t try to dress the wound and put on a splint yourself.&nbsp; The same is true for mental health.&nbsp; When we have an issue, it’s important to seek immediate help from a medical professional. &nbsp;In Nebraska, we do a fantastic job of taking care of our veterans.&nbsp; SmartAsset just ranked us as the fourth-best state in America for veterans.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) provides excellent service to the men and women who’ve put on the cloth to defend our nation, and the agency is constantly looking for ways to do even more to serve our heroes.&nbsp;On June 6th, we took another step forward by launching the&nbsp;Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families.&nbsp; It’s part of a national effort to make mental health services more readily available.&nbsp; In Nebraska, the initiative will be led by NDVA and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Behavioral Health Division.&nbsp; It’s being spearheaded by 29 teammates and will span two years.&nbsp; This cooperative effort will involve strategic planning, setting action steps to chart the way forward, and measuring progress to hold ourselves accountable for making improvement to the care we provide our service members.Prioritizing Mental Health: YouthHalf of all lifetime mental health illness starts by age 14, and the effects can be devastating. &nbsp;Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for Americans ages 10-14 and the third-leading cause of death for those 15-24 years old.The pandemic has intensified the mental health challenges of our youth. &nbsp;School closures caused kids to be isolated from peers, teachers, and coaches.&nbsp; This had a profoundly negative impact not only on their education but also on their mental well-being.&nbsp; Children’s hospitals in America report that the number of self-harm and suicide cases increased 45% from 2019 to 2021 among 5-17 year-olds. &nbsp;To address this challenge, we took major strides this legislative session to expand access to pediatric mental healthcare in Nebraska.&nbsp; The State allocated $10 million of ARPA funds toward the construction of a behavioral health center for children ages 5-18 at CHI Immanuel;&nbsp;$10 million to expand a youth mental health development day school at Boys Town; and $10 million to&nbsp;Children’s Hospital as it develops urgent care centers to address pediatric mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS is also providing an additional $1.8 million to Children’s Hospital for telehealth technology to support pediatric mental health services.&nbsp;Additionally, the State continues to partner with nonprofits, behavioral healthcare providers, and schools to help prevent suicides.&nbsp; Here are some of our primary efforts:<ul>
 <li>DHHS was awarded a five-year federal grant in 2018 to build a behavioral health “system of care” to support those battling mental illness in a less restrictive setting.&nbsp; Since its launch, there have been over 1,800 youth crisis response encounters.&nbsp; Of those encounters, 75% successfully resolved the immediate crisis and supported youth and their families in the community without the need to refer them to inpatient care.&nbsp; As a result of the system of care response, the percentage of youth needing inpatient care or residential treatment dropped from 6.7% in FY2017 to 3.3% in FY2019.</li><li>DHHS has collaborated with the Nebraska Department of Education, schools, educational service units, and localized systems of care to create the Behavioral Health Resources for Schools guide. &nbsp;It serves as a mental health toolkit that identifies local protocols for accessing behavioral health services.</li><li>Nearly 30,000 Nebraskans have been trained on Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR), a suicide prevention program. &nbsp;</li><li>67,000+ educators and school personnel have received Kognito suicide prevention training and over 22,000 have been trained in Suicide Safe Schools.&nbsp;</li><li>The State provided Mental Health First Aid training to 943 people last fiscal year.&nbsp; Trainees are equipped with skills to respond to the signs of mental illness and substance use. &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>We’re fully invested in preventing and treating mental illness in Nebraska. &nbsp;But the State cannot do this alone. &nbsp;It takes involvement from everyone – nonprofits, educators, medical professionals, family members, and peers – to identify signs of mental illness and to encourage those dealing with it to get the help they need. &nbsp;In the coming months, we will continue to evaluate our mental health training and services to make sure Nebraska is taking care of our own.If you want to learn more about the State’s work to support mental health, email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

Gov. Ricketts: Keeping mental health a priority

News Release University of Nebraska Medical Center

OMAHA, Neb.-Anxiety&nbsp;among patients considering deep brain stimulation surgery is common, but now University of Nebraska Medical Center innovators are using simulation and 3D printing to both screen and prepare patients for a surgery in which they remain awake.&nbsp;

Anxiety among patients considering deep brain stimulation surgery is so common, in fact, that the UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences has neuropsychologists on staff to screen patients to determine if they are ready for the challenging procedure and work with them to overcome their trepidation.&nbsp;

The procedure is used to alleviate the symptoms of diseases such as Parkinson’s, essential tremor, dystonia and other neurological conditions.&nbsp;

It is challenging for many reasons. Patients are awake as a hole is drilled into their heads, and they often are asked by the surgeons to respond to questions or make movements as the delicate operation, which involves implanting one or more electrodes in the brain, is underway. The procedure itself lasts three to four hours.&nbsp;

“They are feeling the pressure, they’re hearing the drill,” said Erica Aflagah, PhD, a neuropsychologist in the department. “At some point, there is microelectrode testing, which causes a loud, unusual noise. The surgeons are talking them through it, and they are good at that, but there are moments where a person could panic.”&nbsp;

And for some patients, that moment arrives early – when they are fitted with a metal device known as a stereotactic head frame, which stabilizes their head during the surgery, and a plastic, box-like attachment called a fiducial localizer box, which is attached to the frame and obscures the patient’s view.&nbsp;

Dr. Aflagah and her colleague, Pamela May, PhD, have been told by neurosurgeons that the head frame can be anxiety-inducing for patients during the procedure.&nbsp;

“Part of our role is screening for anxiety that could interfere with the surgery process itself – claustrophobia, panic,” Dr. Aflagah said. “We were finding that sometimes people who were otherwise good candidates had concerns about claustrophobia and panic when dealing with the head frame and attachment.”&nbsp;

The concerns are understandable. The head frame is an intimidating device. Made of metal, it is screwed tightly into the outer surface of the skull for the surgery. The fiducial localizer box obscures the vision, and although that section is removed during the surgery itself, the head frame then is bolted to the operating table, immobilizing the patient’s head and neck.&nbsp;

It’s a tough experience for the neuropsychologists to mimic, and although they ask about claustrophobia, patients’ self-reporting is not always accurate.&nbsp;

“Everyone’s going to have anxiety, especially undergoing awake brain surgery, but the concern is, ‘Will they be able to respond to providers’ simple commands or to follow through the procedure?’” Dr. May said. “We wouldn’t want the anxiety to get in the way of their ability to react to the surgeon’s requests in time.”&nbsp;

The department of neurological sciences frequently works with the Nebraska Medicine Department of Psychology and UNMC Department of Psychiatry when dealing with patients’ pre-surgery anxieties. So Drs. May and Aflagah approached Justin Weeks, PhD, psychotherapy director of the departments’ Anxiety Subspecialty Treatment Program.&nbsp;

As Dr. Weeks tells it, the heart of any evidence-based treatment of anxiety is exposure, where patients face their fears. In cases where Dr. Weeks and his team have worked with patients who are considering deep-brain stimulation surgery, “we haven’t been able to have them engage in exposure” where the head frame and box are concerned, he said.&nbsp;

The reason? The fiducial localizer boxes are expensive – (about $30,000) – and using them for practice risks damaging them. Brainstorming with the anxiety program’s medical director, Lauren Edwards, MD, the group came up with an idea: What about a virtual reality simulation?&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the iEXCEL program right down the street, would the designers and programmers there be able to create a virtual reality scenario that could mimic wearing a head frame/box device while the patient was wearing a VR headset of some kind?&nbsp;

The short answer, said Bill Glass, iEXCEL’s artistic director, was no.&nbsp;

“The problem with the VR for this type of use is, normally with VR your focal point is a short distance in front of your eyes,” Glass said. “But the head frame and box would be much closer to your face.”&nbsp;

Still, the iEXCEL team was intrigued by the problem. Glass wondered: What about a 3D model?&nbsp;

The iEXCEL team borrowed a head frame and box from the UNMC Division of Neurosurgery, and computer 3D artist Anthony Lanza meticulously photographed, measured, researched and modeled the costly pieces of equipment, working with neurosurgery physician assistant Dennis Rieke, who provided information and feedback during the process.&nbsp;

“The devices had multiple pieces that come apart, so I photographed them in 360 degrees,” Lanza said. “Then I loaded the photos into a 3D app as a reference and started modeling it,” he said.&nbsp;

“It’s very iterative. I’d get a base, and since I had the devices at my desk, I could look at them, compare them to the 3D model. When we gave devices back, it became more challenging.”&nbsp;

Lanza, who is currently working on a project for the UNMC College of Dentistry, puts in a lot of research before creating virtual 3D models. He came to UNMC from the gaming industry as a modeling/texturing software expert, and he said he enjoys working to facilitate medical education.&nbsp;

“I like teaching and research,” he said. “Transitioning from gaming to working in higher education – I was previously at Bellevue University – was great for me. I love the projects we get here – every day it’s something new, and I feel like I’m helping my community by being part of UNMC and iEXCEL.&nbsp;

“I got to model a device to help people with their anxiety before they have to get brain surgery. To me, that’s more rewarding than, ‘Oh, there’s the bottle I modeled in the background of that video game.’”&nbsp;

Rieke, who has been involved in deep brain stimulation at UNMC since 2006, said Lanza wasn’t overstating the device’s potential impact.&nbsp;

“There’s a noticeable difference when people have gone through a procedure before as to how comfortable they are,” Rieke said. “This is a simulation, obviously, but just having a little experience goes a long way in making people feel more relaxed.”&nbsp;

Deep brain stimulation can be a life-changing surgery, Rieke said. He has seen bedbound patients able to travel again, patients able to drink from cups without lids for the first time in years. But it is an elective surgery – patients must decide they are prepared for the challenges of the procedure.&nbsp;

“Anything we can do to help them with that preparation is an advantage,” he said.&nbsp;iEXCEL doesn’t do a lot of modeling for 3D printing, Glass said. But when they brought Lanza’s virtual model to the McGoogan Library’s makerspace, the library’s Brian Maass was happy to assist.&nbsp;

“I had to adapt the model, which was in a visual format,” Maass said. “The 3D printer uses a framework of triangles that the computer sends to it. So I had to get the model into a format the system would understand.”&nbsp;

Glass said Maass’ input was invaluable.&nbsp;

“This would not have been possible without Brian’s knowledge and passion,” Glass said. “The tests and problem-solving that he worked out allowed him to produce and deliver an elegant solution.”&nbsp;

The result was a realistic looking, though somewhat lighter, replica of the head frame and box that delighted the team. Dr. Weeks’ group and the neurology department each have one. The prototypes are so realistic that Dr. Weeks thinks they may eventually become standard tools across the country for addressing pre-DBS anxiety.&nbsp;

“Previously, we’ve done things like watching videos of other people being prepped for the surgery, so patients would have some sense of what is happening, but we didn’t have anything this tangible,” Dr. Weeks said. “This is going to be helpful – because you always want to be able to engage in exposure in advance of the situation and learn to adapt to that anxiety and prepare.”&nbsp;

Drs. Aflagah, May and Weeks said they are delighted with the device – and the patients they’ve talked to are eager to try it.&nbsp;

“I’m quite pleased with how it looks from a neuropsych perspective,” Dr. Aflagah said. “It’s nice to have something concrete to show people and have them try on. It makes us better able to assess. We’re still relying on self-reporting, on how they feel they’re going to react, but the model will help patients be more objective.”&nbsp;

The duo said they are ecstatic with the results of the multidisciplinary collaboration.&nbsp;

“We are very grateful,” Dr. May said. “It was exciting to see how these other departments responded to our request and cared so much about helping our patients.”&nbsp;

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 </figure>News Release University of Nebraska Medical CenterOMAHA, Neb.-Anxiety&nbsp;among patients considering deep brain stimulation surgery is common, but now University of Nebraska Medical Center innovators are using simulation and 3D printing to both screen and prepare patients for a surgery in which they remain awake.&nbsp;Anxiety among patients considering deep brain stimulation surgery is so common, in fact, that the UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences has neuropsychologists on staff to screen patients to determine if they are ready for the challenging procedure and work with them to overcome their trepidation.&nbsp;The procedure is used to alleviate the symptoms of diseases such as Parkinson’s, essential tremor, dystonia and other neurological conditions.&nbsp;It is challenging for many reasons. Patients are awake as a hole is drilled into their heads, and they often are asked by the surgeons to respond to questions or make movements as the delicate operation, which involves implanting one or more electrodes in the brain, is underway. The procedure itself lasts three to four hours.&nbsp;“They are feeling the pressure, they’re hearing the drill,” said Erica Aflagah, PhD, a neuropsychologist in the department. “At some point, there is microelectrode testing, which causes a loud, unusual noise. The surgeons are talking them through it, and they are good at that, but there are moments where a person could panic.”&nbsp;And for some patients, that moment arrives early – when they are fitted with a metal device known as a stereotactic head frame, which stabilizes their head during the surgery, and a plastic, box-like attachment called a fiducial localizer box, which is attached to the frame and obscures the patient’s view.&nbsp;Dr. Aflagah and her colleague, Pamela May, PhD, have been told by neurosurgeons that the head frame can be anxiety-inducing for patients during the procedure.&nbsp;“Part of our role is screening for anxiety that could interfere with the surgery process itself – claustrophobia, panic,” Dr. Aflagah said. “We were finding that sometimes people who were otherwise good candidates had concerns about claustrophobia and panic when dealing with the head frame and attachment.”&nbsp;The concerns are understandable. The head frame is an intimidating device. Made of metal, it is screwed tightly into the outer surface of the skull for the surgery. The fiducial localizer box obscures the vision, and although that section is removed during the surgery itself, the head frame then is bolted to the operating table, immobilizing the patient’s head and neck.&nbsp;It’s a tough experience for the neuropsychologists to mimic, and although they ask about claustrophobia, patients’ self-reporting is not always accurate.&nbsp;“Everyone’s going to have anxiety, especially undergoing awake brain surgery, but the concern is, ‘Will they be able to respond to providers’ simple commands or to follow through the procedure?’” Dr. May said. “We wouldn’t want the anxiety to get in the way of their ability to react to the surgeon’s requests in time.”&nbsp;The department of neurological sciences frequently works with the Nebraska Medicine Department of Psychology and UNMC Department of Psychiatry when dealing with patients’ pre-surgery anxieties. So Drs. May and Aflagah approached Justin Weeks, PhD, psychotherapy director of the departments’ Anxiety Subspecialty Treatment Program.&nbsp;As Dr. Weeks tells it, the heart of any evidence-based treatment of anxiety is exposure, where patients face their fears. In cases where Dr. Weeks and his team have worked with patients who are considering deep-brain stimulation surgery, “we haven’t been able to have them engage in exposure” where the head frame and box are concerned, he said.&nbsp;The reason? The fiducial localizer boxes are expensive – (about $30,000) – and using them for practice risks damaging them. Brainstorming with the anxiety program’s medical director, Lauren Edwards, MD, the group came up with an idea: What about a virtual reality simulation?&nbsp;&nbsp;With the iEXCEL program right down the street, would the designers and programmers there be able to create a virtual reality scenario that could mimic wearing a head frame/box device while the patient was wearing a VR headset of some kind?&nbsp;The short answer, said Bill Glass, iEXCEL’s artistic director, was no.&nbsp;“The problem with the VR for this type of use is, normally with VR your focal point is a short distance in front of your eyes,” Glass said. “But the head frame and box would be much closer to your face.”&nbsp;Still, the iEXCEL team was intrigued by the problem. Glass wondered: What about a 3D model?&nbsp;The iEXCEL team borrowed a head frame and box from the UNMC Division of Neurosurgery, and computer 3D artist Anthony Lanza meticulously photographed, measured, researched and modeled the costly pieces of equipment, working with neurosurgery physician assistant Dennis Rieke, who provided information and feedback during the process.&nbsp;“The devices had multiple pieces that come apart, so I photographed them in 360 degrees,” Lanza said. “Then I loaded the photos into a 3D app as a reference and started modeling it,” he said.&nbsp;“It’s very iterative. I’d get a base, and since I had the devices at my desk, I could look at them, compare them to the 3D model. When we gave devices back, it became more challenging.”&nbsp;Lanza, who is currently working on a project for the UNMC College of Dentistry, puts in a lot of research before creating virtual 3D models. He came to UNMC from the gaming industry as a modeling/texturing software expert, and he said he enjoys working to facilitate medical education.&nbsp;“I like teaching and research,” he said. “Transitioning from gaming to working in higher education – I was previously at Bellevue University – was great for me. I love the projects we get here – every day it’s something new, and I feel like I’m helping my community by being part of UNMC and iEXCEL.&nbsp;“I got to model a device to help people with their anxiety before they have to get brain surgery. To me, that’s more rewarding than, ‘Oh, there’s the bottle I modeled in the background of that video game.’”&nbsp;Rieke, who has been involved in deep brain stimulation at UNMC since 2006, said Lanza wasn’t overstating the device’s potential impact.&nbsp;“There’s a noticeable difference when people have gone through a procedure before as to how comfortable they are,” Rieke said. “This is a simulation, obviously, but just having a little experience goes a long way in making people feel more relaxed.”&nbsp;Deep brain stimulation can be a life-changing surgery, Rieke said. He has seen bedbound patients able to travel again, patients able to drink from cups without lids for the first time in years. But it is an elective surgery – patients must decide they are prepared for the challenges of the procedure.&nbsp;“Anything we can do to help them with that preparation is an advantage,” he said.&nbsp;iEXCEL doesn’t do a lot of modeling for 3D printing, Glass said. But when they brought Lanza’s virtual model to the McGoogan Library’s makerspace, the library’s Brian Maass was happy to assist.&nbsp;“I had to adapt the model, which was in a visual format,” Maass said. “The 3D printer uses a framework of triangles that the computer sends to it. So I had to get the model into a format the system would understand.”&nbsp;Glass said Maass’ input was invaluable.&nbsp;“This would not have been possible without Brian’s knowledge and passion,” Glass said. “The tests and problem-solving that he worked out allowed him to produce and deliver an elegant solution.”&nbsp;The result was a realistic looking, though somewhat lighter, replica of the head frame and box that delighted the team. Dr. Weeks’ group and the neurology department each have one. The prototypes are so realistic that Dr. Weeks thinks they may eventually become standard tools across the country for addressing pre-DBS anxiety.&nbsp;“Previously, we’ve done things like watching videos of other people being prepped for the surgery, so patients would have some sense of what is happening, but we didn’t have anything this tangible,” Dr. Weeks said. “This is going to be helpful – because you always want to be able to engage in exposure in advance of the situation and learn to adapt to that anxiety and prepare.”&nbsp;Drs. Aflagah, May and Weeks said they are delighted with the device – and the patients they’ve talked to are eager to try it.&nbsp;“I’m quite pleased with how it looks from a neuropsych perspective,” Dr. Aflagah said. “It’s nice to have something concrete to show people and have them try on. It makes us better able to assess. We’re still relying on self-reporting, on how they feel they’re going to react, but the model will help patients be more objective.”&nbsp;The duo said they are ecstatic with the results of the multidisciplinary collaboration.&nbsp;“We are very grateful,” Dr. May said. “It was exciting to see how these other departments responded to our request and cared so much about helping our patients.”&nbsp;<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
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UNMC team invents way to alleviate anxiety for brain surgery 

News Release North Platte Area Children's Museum

The North Platte Area Children's Museum is hosting a Day Camp on June 13th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Children must bring their own lunch and are required to be able to independently use the restroom. It will be a day full of fun and activities. 

Member's price is $15 per child, and the Non-member price is $30 per child.

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 </figure>News Release North Platte Area Children's MuseumThe North Platte Area Children's Museum is hosting a Day Camp on June 13th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Children must bring their own lunch and are required to be able to independently use the restroom. It will be a day full of fun and activities. Member's price is $15 per child, and the Non-member price is $30 per child.<figure>
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North Platte Children's Museum to host day camp June 13

News Release North Platte Public Library

NEW HOURS:&nbsp;&nbsp;We are open&nbsp;Monday-Saturday, 9:00 am-6:00 pm and closed on Sunday and major holidays.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The book drop remains open 24 hours a day, but books may also be returned at the front desk.&nbsp;

Library will be closed all day on Saturday, June 18th&nbsp;because of the NebraskaLand Days Parade.

Summer 2022 Reading Program:&nbsp;&nbsp;We are doing it a little different this year, so we recommend interested families and youth stop in the library to learn how it will work.&nbsp; There are two “reading challenge” programs, according to age.&nbsp;

The Elementary students&nbsp;will log reading time on paper or in ReaderZone online.&nbsp;&nbsp; There will be prizes and an opportunity to win a grand prize bicycle.&nbsp;&nbsp; Instead of regular summer reading sessions at the library by age, there will be STEM days and craft days as well as other special events.&nbsp;

Tweens and Teens (Ages 10-18) Reading Challenge:&nbsp;&nbsp;Similar to last year, youth in this age bracket will get scratch tickets (up to 1 daily) for the books they check out to read.&nbsp; The tickets will either get them a small or medium prize, or the opportunity to register for the grand prize kayak.&nbsp;

Story Time &amp; Book Babies:&nbsp;&nbsp;Check our Facebook page and calendar for any changes to these programs this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some of our special events take the place of Story Time and are at other locations in town, so make special note of the Special Events section.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Story Time, a 30-minute program for Ages 3–5: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM

o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No Story Time in the library-see NebraskaLand Days Kids Fest information under Special Events

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Book Babies&nbsp;(formally Wee Read, a 20-minute program for ages 0-3: Wednesdays at 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM

Teens Explore (ages 12-18) meets for special Summer Reading themed sessions on Thursdays, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some events are off-site, so please check the calendar.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;This is separate from the reading challenge.&nbsp; Attend a session to learn about the special final event this summer.&nbsp;

Special Summer Reading Events for Children and Youth and their families

Read with Miss Nebraska &amp; the 2022 Candidates, Monday, June 6, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM:&nbsp;&nbsp;Read, take photos and visit with Miss Nebraska and the 2022 Miss Nebraska Scholarship Competition candidates.&nbsp; Children will receive a ticket to either a Thursday or Friday competition night.

READING PAWTNERS,&nbsp;Saturdays, June 11 and June 25, 9:30 am-10:30 am:&nbsp;&nbsp;Elementary students are welcome to come in and read with one of our four-legged friends from Rock ’N Paws.&nbsp;

Surf into STEM for ages 6-11, Wednesdays, June 1, 15, 22, and 29, (caregivers welcome to attend with youth), Each week, there is a different theme.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Surf into STEM will have events most weeks through July 20.&nbsp;

Sea Creature Crafts, Fridays at 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Family-friendly crafts for all ages, children 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult.&nbsp; Sea Creature Crafts continue through July 15th.

Crane River Theater of Kearney Presents” Page to Stage” at Cody Park Shelter, Wednesday, June 8, 1:30 PM:&nbsp;As part of our summer reading program, cast members of the theater’s production of Disney’s “High School Musical” will have an interactive and engaging hour-long workshop, bringing characters to life on stage as they read, perform, and interact with the audience.&nbsp;

Balloon Twisting with Ethan Boggs, Tuesday, June 14th, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ethan will be twisting balloons into all sorts of creatures for those attending. &nbsp;Families and teens are welcome.&nbsp; Children under twelve should be accompanied by an adult.&nbsp;

NebraskaLand Days Kids Fest, June 21st, 10 AM-2 PM, and 4 PM – 6 PM at the Wild West Arena Pavilion

Library Events Calendar:&nbsp;<a href="https://north-platte.libcal.com/" target="_blank">https://north-platte.libcal.com/</a>

Check out the calendar to see what events are happening at the library.&nbsp; These include noon speaker programs, workshops, and our regular programming. &nbsp;&nbsp;Use this site to pre-register for noon programs &amp; workshops.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can also call 308-535-8036, EXT. 3320.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last-minute attendees at noon programs are welcome but calling ahead helps us plan room set-up.

The Creation Station&nbsp;is open for equipment certification &amp; open build time throughout the week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Call 535-8036 ext. 3320 to book a time. Training sessions for most equipment last about 1 hour and are limited to 2 people.&nbsp;

Creation Station Workshops:&nbsp;Workshops give you the opportunity to have fun and see what our equipment can do.&nbsp; Check our Facebook page and library website for workshop information as they get scheduled.

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 </figure>News Release North Platte Public LibraryNEW HOURS:&nbsp;&nbsp;We are open&nbsp;Monday-Saturday, 9:00 am-6:00 pm and closed on Sunday and major holidays.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The book drop remains open 24 hours a day, but books may also be returned at the front desk.&nbsp;Library will be closed all day on Saturday, June 18th&nbsp;because of the NebraskaLand Days Parade.Summer 2022 Reading Program:&nbsp;&nbsp;We are doing it a little different this year, so we recommend interested families and youth stop in the library to learn how it will work.&nbsp; There are two “reading challenge” programs, according to age.&nbsp;The Elementary students&nbsp;will log reading time on paper or in ReaderZone online.&nbsp;&nbsp; There will be prizes and an opportunity to win a grand prize bicycle.&nbsp;&nbsp; Instead of regular summer reading sessions at the library by age, there will be STEM days and craft days as well as other special events.&nbsp;Tweens and Teens (Ages 10-18) Reading Challenge:&nbsp;&nbsp;Similar to last year, youth in this age bracket will get scratch tickets (up to 1 daily) for the books they check out to read.&nbsp; The tickets will either get them a small or medium prize, or the opportunity to register for the grand prize kayak.&nbsp;Story Time &amp; Book Babies:&nbsp;&nbsp;Check our Facebook page and calendar for any changes to these programs this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some of our special events take the place of Story Time and are at other locations in town, so make special note of the Special Events section.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Story Time, a 30-minute program for Ages 3–5: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PMo&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No Story Time in the library-see NebraskaLand Days Kids Fest information under Special Events·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Book Babies&nbsp;(formally Wee Read, a 20-minute program for ages 0-3: Wednesdays at 10:00 AM and 10:30 AMTeens Explore (ages 12-18) meets for special Summer Reading themed sessions on Thursdays, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some events are off-site, so please check the calendar.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;This is separate from the reading challenge.&nbsp; Attend a session to learn about the special final event this summer.&nbsp;Special Summer Reading Events for Children and Youth and their familiesRead with Miss Nebraska &amp; the 2022 Candidates, Monday, June 6, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM:&nbsp;&nbsp;Read, take photos and visit with Miss Nebraska and the 2022 Miss Nebraska Scholarship Competition candidates.&nbsp; Children will receive a ticket to either a Thursday or Friday competition night.READING PAWTNERS,&nbsp;Saturdays, June 11 and June 25, 9:30 am-10:30 am:&nbsp;&nbsp;Elementary students are welcome to come in and read with one of our four-legged friends from Rock ’N Paws.&nbsp;Surf into STEM for ages 6-11, Wednesdays, June 1, 15, 22, and 29, (caregivers welcome to attend with youth), Each week, there is a different theme.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Surf into STEM will have events most weeks through July 20.&nbsp;Sea Creature Crafts, Fridays at 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Family-friendly crafts for all ages, children 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult.&nbsp; Sea Creature Crafts continue through July 15th.Crane River Theater of Kearney Presents” Page to Stage” at Cody Park Shelter, Wednesday, June 8, 1:30 PM:&nbsp;As part of our summer reading program, cast members of the theater’s production of Disney’s “High School Musical” will have an interactive and engaging hour-long workshop, bringing characters to life on stage as they read, perform, and interact with the audience.&nbsp;Balloon Twisting with Ethan Boggs, Tuesday, June 14th, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ethan will be twisting balloons into all sorts of creatures for those attending. &nbsp;Families and teens are welcome.&nbsp; Children under twelve should be accompanied by an adult.&nbsp;NebraskaLand Days Kids Fest, June 21st, 10 AM-2 PM, and 4 PM – 6 PM at the Wild West Arena PavilionLibrary Events Calendar:&nbsp;<a href="https://north-platte.libcal.com/" target="_blank">https://north-platte.libcal.com/</a>Check out the calendar to see what events are happening at the library.&nbsp; These include noon speaker programs, workshops, and our regular programming. &nbsp;&nbsp;Use this site to pre-register for noon programs &amp; workshops.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can also call 308-535-8036, EXT. 3320.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last-minute attendees at noon programs are welcome but calling ahead helps us plan room set-up.The Creation Station&nbsp;is open for equipment certification &amp; open build time throughout the week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Call 535-8036 ext. 3320 to book a time. Training sessions for most equipment last about 1 hour and are limited to 2 people.&nbsp;Creation Station Workshops:&nbsp;Workshops give you the opportunity to have fun and see what our equipment can do.&nbsp; Check our Facebook page and library website for workshop information as they get scheduled.<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
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June happenings at the North Platte Public Library

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A federal grand jury has indicted three people for allegedly kidnapping an FBI victim specialist last week on the Pine Ridge Reservation.&nbsp;

Online court records indicate Juan Francisco Alvarez-Soto, Deyvin Morales and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla were indicted on May 19 on charges of kidnapping, carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. 

According to the indictment, the trio kidnapped FBI Victim Specialist Curt Lauinger while he was engaged in his official duties in Red Shirt, South Dakota on May 6. 

The indictment offers no other details on the circumstances except to say a rifle was brandished during the incident. 

U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell said through a spokeswoman that no more information on the case was available to the public.

By Associated PressSIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A federal grand jury has indicted three people for allegedly kidnapping an FBI victim specialist last week on the Pine Ridge Reservation.&nbsp;Online court records indicate Juan Francisco Alvarez-Soto, Deyvin Morales and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla were indicted on May 19 on charges of kidnapping, carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. According to the indictment, the trio kidnapped FBI Victim Specialist Curt Lauinger while he was engaged in his official duties in Red Shirt, South Dakota on May 6. The indictment offers no other details on the circumstances except to say a rifle was brandished during the incident. U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell said through a spokeswoman that no more information on the case was available to the public.

3 indicted for allegedly kidnapping FBI specialist on Pine Ridge Reservation 

On&nbsp; June 2 at approximately 7:22 p.m. Chadron Police Sergeant Swanson and officer Cloyd were called to a report of a disturbance and possible stabbing at a residence located at the trailer court of 1010 Maple Street.

The officers arrived on scene and contacted 37-year-old Joseph Little Moon Jr.

"Joseph directed the officers into the residence where a male victim was located laying on the couch with a stab wound to the upper groin area," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The victim was asked who stabbed him and the victim identified Joseph as the suspect. Sgt. Swanson spoke with Joseph who made admissions to the incident, including that he had stabbed the victim with a blade that was concealed within his walking cane."

Chadron rescue personnel arrived on scene and the male victim was transported to the Chadron Community Hospital for treatment of his injuries. 

The officers collected additional statements and photographed the scene.

Little Moon Jr. was placed into custody and transported to the Dawes County Jail where he was booked for the charges of Second Degree Assault (Class IIA Felony) and Carrying Concealed Weapons (Class I Misdemeanor). 

Bond for Little Moon Jr. was set at 10% of $50,000.

The Chadron Police Department was assisted by Chadron Fire Department.

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostOn&nbsp; June 2 at approximately 7:22 p.m. Chadron Police Sergeant Swanson and officer Cloyd were called to a report of a disturbance and possible stabbing at a residence located at the trailer court of 1010 Maple Street.The officers arrived on scene and contacted 37-year-old Joseph Little Moon Jr."Joseph directed the officers into the residence where a male victim was located laying on the couch with a stab wound to the upper groin area," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The victim was asked who stabbed him and the victim identified Joseph as the suspect. Sgt. Swanson spoke with Joseph who made admissions to the incident, including that he had stabbed the victim with a blade that was concealed within his walking cane."Chadron rescue personnel arrived on scene and the male victim was transported to the Chadron Community Hospital for treatment of his injuries. The officers collected additional statements and photographed the scene.Little Moon Jr. was placed into custody and transported to the Dawes County Jail where he was booked for the charges of Second Degree Assault (Class IIA Felony) and Carrying Concealed Weapons (Class I Misdemeanor). Bond for Little Moon Jr. was set at 10% of $50,000.The Chadron Police Department was assisted by Chadron Fire Department.

Chadron man arrested for stabbing attack, carrying concealed weapon

News Release Nebraska State Patrol

Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Trooper John Hadaway captured first place honors and Trooper Tim Baumann finished as runner-up in the Nebraska Inspector Championships held over the weekend in Grand Island.

Trooper Hadaway is a 12-year veteran of NSP, stationed in Broken Bow, and is assigned to the Carrier Enforcement Division. Trooper Baumann has served with NSP since 1996 and is stationed in Nebraska City.

The Nebraska Inspector Championships are an annual event as part of the Nebraska Truck Driving Championships. Each participant goes through a table-top exercise, various hands-on inspections, and a personal interview. The event hasn’t been held since 2019 because of COVID-19 concerns in 2020 and 2021.

Trooper Hadaway will now represent Nebraska at the North American Inspector Championships (NAIC) in Indianapolis, Indiana, from August 15-19. During the NAIC, inspectors from across North America are tested in a series of timed events, in which they demonstrate their knowledge of the North American Standard Inspection Program.

In addition to the competition, each inspector receives training on the latest safety information, technology, standards, and inspection procedures. The NAIC is held in conjunction with the American Trucking Association National Truck Driving Championships.

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 </figure>News Release Nebraska State PatrolNebraska State Patrol (NSP) Trooper John Hadaway captured first place honors and Trooper Tim Baumann finished as runner-up in the Nebraska Inspector Championships held over the weekend in Grand Island.Trooper Hadaway is a 12-year veteran of NSP, stationed in Broken Bow, and is assigned to the Carrier Enforcement Division. Trooper Baumann has served with NSP since 1996 and is stationed in Nebraska City.The Nebraska Inspector Championships are an annual event as part of the Nebraska Truck Driving Championships. Each participant goes through a table-top exercise, various hands-on inspections, and a personal interview. The event hasn’t been held since 2019 because of COVID-19 concerns in 2020 and 2021.Trooper Hadaway will now represent Nebraska at the North American Inspector Championships (NAIC) in Indianapolis, Indiana, from August 15-19. During the NAIC, inspectors from across North America are tested in a series of timed events, in which they demonstrate their knowledge of the North American Standard Inspection Program.In addition to the competition, each inspector receives training on the latest safety information, technology, standards, and inspection procedures. The NAIC is held in conjunction with the American Trucking Association National Truck Driving Championships.

Trooper Hadaway wins Nebraska Inspector Championships

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

Here is the latest information on today's severe weather potential. Also included is an update on Thursday's potential. At this time, no severe thunderstorms are expected tomorrow (Wednesday).&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteHere is the latest information on today's severe weather potential. Also included is an update on Thursday's potential. At this time, no severe thunderstorms are expected tomorrow (Wednesday).&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
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Enhanced risk of severe weather for southwest Neb. Tuesday

Governor Pete Ricketts announced Nebraska’s participation in the&nbsp;Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families.&nbsp; Nebraska is one of 35 states taking part in the initiative from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be the lead agencies on the program.&nbsp; The two-year initiative will identify gaps in care and drive enhancements to the state’s mental health services.

In discussing the initiative, the Governor highlighted the sacrifices made by service members to protect and defend America. &nbsp;In particular, he cited the time spent away from family while on deployment, frequent relocations, and the physical and psychological impact of combat. &nbsp;Gov. Ricketts credited the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs for its great work to care for veterans and their families across the state, and he noted that improving access to mental health care will further the State’s goal of becoming the best state in America for military families and veterans.

DHHS Behavioral Health Director Sheri Dawson expressed her excitement at the opportunity to coordinate veterans’ and mental health resources through the initiative. &nbsp;She discussed the State’s intent to overcome the stigma of discussing mental health and to remove obstacles for those seeking mental healthcare.

NDVA Director John Hilgert highlighted three main ways his department supports veterans in crisis: 1) emergency financial support through the Veterans Aid Fund; 2) NDVA’s state service office which does over 100 outreach events each year to help veterans get the support they’re eligible to receive; and 3) the NDVA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>, which includes a live chat option and a map to mental health resources across the state.&nbsp;

The Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number is 1-800-273-8255.&nbsp; By pressing “1” when the call connects, callers will be transferred to the Veterans Crisis Line, which offers support specifically for veterans and their loved ones.&nbsp; There’s no need to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare to make use of the service. &nbsp;

Video of today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fl5hsmunugu52xgq%2FGov.%2520Press%2520Conf%25206_6_2022.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cbb27d107608e43249a6408da480b7180%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637901511228950882%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=0N3S3nC4R1IT1OGT0i%2FleWvBF1AB2Q%2BTbhavCkZBhE0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654602476510.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (at center in blue tie), State leaders, and service members (past and present) at this morning’s news conference." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (at center in blue tie), State leaders, and service members (past and present) at this morning’s news conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor RickettsLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced Nebraska’s participation in the&nbsp;Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families.&nbsp; Nebraska is one of 35 states taking part in the initiative from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be the lead agencies on the program.&nbsp; The two-year initiative will identify gaps in care and drive enhancements to the state’s mental health services.In discussing the initiative, the Governor highlighted the sacrifices made by service members to protect and defend America. &nbsp;In particular, he cited the time spent away from family while on deployment, frequent relocations, and the physical and psychological impact of combat. &nbsp;Gov. Ricketts credited the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs for its great work to care for veterans and their families across the state, and he noted that improving access to mental health care will further the State’s goal of becoming the best state in America for military families and veterans.DHHS Behavioral Health Director Sheri Dawson expressed her excitement at the opportunity to coordinate veterans’ and mental health resources through the initiative. &nbsp;She discussed the State’s intent to overcome the stigma of discussing mental health and to remove obstacles for those seeking mental healthcare.NDVA Director John Hilgert highlighted three main ways his department supports veterans in crisis: 1) emergency financial support through the Veterans Aid Fund; 2) NDVA’s state service office which does over 100 outreach events each year to help veterans get the support they’re eligible to receive; and 3) the NDVA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>, which includes a live chat option and a map to mental health resources across the state.&nbsp;The Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number is 1-800-273-8255.&nbsp; By pressing “1” when the call connects, callers will be transferred to the Veterans Crisis Line, which offers support specifically for veterans and their loved ones.&nbsp; There’s no need to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare to make use of the service. &nbsp;Video of today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fl5hsmunugu52xgq%2FGov.%2520Press%2520Conf%25206_6_2022.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cbb27d107608e43249a6408da480b7180%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637901511228950882%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=0N3S3nC4R1IT1OGT0i%2FleWvBF1AB2Q%2BTbhavCkZBhE0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces initiative to improve mental healthcare access for military, veterans, families

The Cedar Room in North Platte's historic Canteen District has been named the "Best Steakhouse in the U.S." by the national travel magazine, Travel Awaits.

Read the entire article <a href="https://www.travelawaits.com/2768984/best-steakhouses-in-the-us-2022/?fbclid=IwAR0aG-CU5ASR1STgd5KQUlsKQMUKdrasevSDzPwxmMjx-fBTRqIcCEPj7gk">HERE</a>.

The Cedar Room is an American Fusion restaurant located downtown on the bricks with a new unique fine dining experience that is the first of its kind in North Platte, according to their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecedarrmNP">Facebook page</a>.

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 </figure>By POST STAFFThe Cedar Room in North Platte's historic Canteen District has been named the "Best Steakhouse in the U.S." by the national travel magazine, Travel Awaits.Read the entire article <a href="https://www.travelawaits.com/2768984/best-steakhouses-in-the-us-2022/?fbclid=IwAR0aG-CU5ASR1STgd5KQUlsKQMUKdrasevSDzPwxmMjx-fBTRqIcCEPj7gk">HERE</a>.The Cedar Room is an American Fusion restaurant located downtown on the bricks with a new unique fine dining experience that is the first of its kind in North Platte, according to their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecedarrmNP">Facebook page</a>. <a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
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North Platte's Cedar Room named 'Best Steakhouse in the U.S.' by travel magazine

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

SUTHERLAND, Neb.-An Ogallala man has been arrested after he allegedly made threats with a gun at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area.

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said on June 3 at around 11:00 p.m., a call came into the Lincoln County 911 center reporting a man threatening subjects with a gun at the Reservoir.

Callers said the man wandered into a group of people camping and started waving a gun around while telling them to, "be quiet," and to, "shut it down for the night."

Several deputies arrived and made contact with Roy Lunkwitz, 59. A search of Lunkwitz produced a 9 mm handgun, according to authorities.

Authorities said deputies spoke to several campers who corroborated the earlier account. At least two make campers said Lunkwitz pointed the gun at them while others, including 14 children, hid in different areas.

Lunkwitz was arrested on suspicion of terroristic threats and use of a weapon to commit a felony.

He was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

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 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostSUTHERLAND, Neb.-An Ogallala man has been arrested after he allegedly made threats with a gun at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area.The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said on June 3 at around 11:00 p.m., a call came into the Lincoln County 911 center reporting a man threatening subjects with a gun at the Reservoir.Callers said the man wandered into a group of people camping and started waving a gun around while telling them to, "be quiet," and to, "shut it down for the night."Several deputies arrived and made contact with Roy Lunkwitz, 59. A search of Lunkwitz produced a 9 mm handgun, according to authorities.Authorities said deputies spoke to several campers who corroborated the earlier account. At least two make campers said Lunkwitz pointed the gun at them while others, including 14 children, hid in different areas.Lunkwitz was arrested on suspicion of terroristic threats and use of a weapon to commit a felony.He was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

Ogallala man accused of making threats with gun at Sutherland Reservoir

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have concluded the annual&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;campaign with a busy weekend across the state.

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have concluded the annual&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;campaign with a busy weekend across the state.During the two-week initiative, troopers removed from the road 40 impaired drivers and cited 47 people for seat belt or child safety restraint violations.&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;was made possible thanks in part to a grant for $24,780 from the NDOT – Highway Safety Office.In addition to the 40 arrests made for driving under the influence, troopers also issued citations for speeding (855), open alcohol container (23), minor in possession (28), driving under suspension (69), no proof of insurance (40), no seat belt (32), and improper child restraint (15). Troopers also assisted more than 600 motorists in need of help on Nebraska roadways.The campaign closed with a busy weekend on Nebraska roadways. This weekend, troopers made 12 arrests for driving under the influence, cited 8 motorists for speeding above 100 miles per hour, and located two pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop.On Friday, a trooper conducted a traffic stop for speeding on Interstate 80 near York. During the traffic stop, a York County Sheriff’s K-9 detected the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed 2 pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 2.5 grams of dimethyltryptamine. The driver, Jason Smith, 47, of Victorville, California, was lodged in York County Jail for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, and possession of drug paraphernalia.Sunday afternoon, a trooper clocked a motorcycle traveling eastbound at 122 miles per hour near Odessa on I-80. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the rider refused to yield and continued eastbound. The trooper initiated a pursuit. The rider drove recklessly through traffic, splitting vehicles and driving on the shoulder at times. The motorcycle exited I-80 at the Kearney interchange and began fleeing southbound on Highway 44. After approximately six miles, the rider stopped voluntarily and was taken into custody without incident. The rider, Andy Peneda-Portillo, 21, was lodged in Buffalo County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and numerous traffic violations.

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