By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The crowning of the first-ever national champion avocado launcher will be delayed a bit.

Organizers of the National Avocado Launching Championship that had been scheduled for May 21 in North Platte has been postponed due to "unforeseen circumstances."

The event is being organized by the North Platte Visitor Bureau and their Board of Directors will meet on May 25 to establish a new date and time.

Organizers said all participants are being notified and will have the option to attend on the new date or be refunded.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651072216290.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The crowning of the first-ever national champion avocado launcher will be delayed a bit.Organizers of the National Avocado Launching Championship that had been scheduled for May 21 in North Platte has been postponed due to "unforeseen circumstances."The event is being organized by the North Platte Visitor Bureau and their Board of Directors will meet on May 25 to establish a new date and time.Organizers said all participants are being notified and will have the option to attend on the new date or be refunded.&nbsp;

National Avocado Launching Championship in North Platte postponed

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is teaming up with neighboring state patrols and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a special effort this Mother’s Day weekend. The&nbsp;Slow Down Move Over&nbsp;partnership reminds all drivers to obey the speed limit and to move over for emergency vehicles.

“Speeding is a major factor in many of the serious and fatal crashes we see on roadways in Nebraska and our neighboring states,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “In 2020 alone, 787 lives in our region were lost in speeding-related crashes. That’s why we’re reminding drivers to stay alert and follow the posted speed limits. Let’s work together and make sure everyone makes it home to mom safely this Mother’s Day.”

Nationally in 2020, 30% of all crash fatalities were related to speeding. According to NHTSA, a crash on a road with a speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than twice as likely to be fatal than a crash on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph and nearly five times as likely on a road with a speed limit of 40 mph or below.

This weekend’s partnership includes troopers from the Arkansas State Police, Iowa State Patrol, Kansas Highway Patrol, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Nebraska State Patrol. Those states comprise Region 7 of NHTSA.

“As our troopers and partners work across the region, we ask the public to help keep them safe by following&nbsp;Move Over&nbsp;laws,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Those laws help protect law enforcement, other emergency responders, and tow operators while they perform their jobs on the road. Please help them also get home safely to their families by always moving over when you come upon an emergency vehicle working roadside.”

This Mother’s Day as you get behind the wheel, please remember to slow down and move over. For more information on speeding prevention, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding" target="_blank">www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651784009471.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA STATE PATROLLINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is teaming up with neighboring state patrols and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a special effort this Mother’s Day weekend. The&nbsp;Slow Down Move Over&nbsp;partnership reminds all drivers to obey the speed limit and to move over for emergency vehicles.“Speeding is a major factor in many of the serious and fatal crashes we see on roadways in Nebraska and our neighboring states,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “In 2020 alone, 787 lives in our region were lost in speeding-related crashes. That’s why we’re reminding drivers to stay alert and follow the posted speed limits. Let’s work together and make sure everyone makes it home to mom safely this Mother’s Day.”Nationally in 2020, 30% of all crash fatalities were related to speeding. According to NHTSA, a crash on a road with a speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than twice as likely to be fatal than a crash on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph and nearly five times as likely on a road with a speed limit of 40 mph or below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651784032887.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>This weekend’s partnership includes troopers from the Arkansas State Police, Iowa State Patrol, Kansas Highway Patrol, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Nebraska State Patrol. Those states comprise Region 7 of NHTSA.“As our troopers and partners work across the region, we ask the public to help keep them safe by following&nbsp;Move Over&nbsp;laws,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Those laws help protect law enforcement, other emergency responders, and tow operators while they perform their jobs on the road. Please help them also get home safely to their families by always moving over when you come upon an emergency vehicle working roadside.”This Mother’s Day as you get behind the wheel, please remember to slow down and move over. For more information on speeding prevention, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding" target="_blank">www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding</a>.

Neb. State Patrol joins 5-state traffic safety effort for Mother's Day weekend

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The Nebraskaland Days Celebration is a little over a month away, but it's time to get in the spirit.

"Dress Western Friday is our little way of getting people ready for the festival which is just around the corner," said Executive Director David Fudge. "Wear three articles of western closing, Nebraskaland Days pins, memorabilia, hats, whatever it is, just a way to kind of get in the spirit and let everybody know you're getting ready for the festival."

The Nebraskaland Days Board of Directors will also be out and about on Friday in the infamous North Platte Ambassador Fire Truck distributing brochures around town.

Tickets and information can be found <a href="https://nebraskalanddays.com/">HERE</a>.

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

Do you know of a good story of a person, business, or organization working to make Greater Nebraska better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero?

Share your stories on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whats-the-Good-Word-Greater-Nebraska-100942099193470">"What's the Good Word Greater Nebraska" Facebook</a> page. You can also email your ideas to <a href="http://scott.carlson@eagleradio.net/">scott.carlson@eagleradio.net</a>.

Share the positivity with North Platte Post!

Eagle Communications reserves all rights on the selection of stories submitted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651771685874.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The Nebraskaland Days Celebration is a little over a month away, but it's time to get in the spirit.The first Dress Western Friday is May 6."Dress Western Friday is our little way of getting people ready for the festival which is just around the corner," said Executive Director David Fudge. "Wear three articles of western closing, Nebraskaland Days pins, memorabilia, hats, whatever it is, just a way to kind of get in the spirit and let everybody know you're getting ready for the festival."The Nebraskaland Days Board of Directors will also be out and about on Friday in the infamous North Platte Ambassador Fire Truck distributing brochures around town.This year's celebration is June 15-25.Tickets and information can be found <a href="https://nebraskalanddays.com/">HERE</a>.<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://lh4.googleusercontent.com/e8X58HMHlmd95rqyhjw635Qcz5FkX4LD5s1QfLt5dIK4-kiFi4t5zyIzRIzqRDrGTxgwyGWFvGNKddGQuegny2dyKb9OlCYdnefYvTjJ0UrxNmqcAipjMMLIUIu3Palh22mpWYe39n55O6DLWw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Lk-JHxzJAA3j8s05OjxNBu6uamX3heU-ZWJ3ug_f5qcMzB6KrYfQfb9cLXUzhdAzPEkKhD39fWaaHBzOa-tu0M9jbTJ_w35sGs3chpTUr-gic8sm7LsPt3jminjhKGCxY81DTUeRj2njrOdWxw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Do you know of a good story of a person, business, or organization working to make Greater Nebraska better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero?Share your stories on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whats-the-Good-Word-Greater-Nebraska-100942099193470">"What's the Good Word Greater Nebraska" Facebook</a> page. You can also email your ideas to <a href="http://scott.carlson@eagleradio.net/">scott.carlson@eagleradio.net</a>.Share the positivity with North Platte Post!Eagle Communications reserves all rights on the selection of stories submitted.

First Nebraskaland Days 'Dress Western Friday' tomorrow

COLUMBUS, Neb.-Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is encouraging
farmers to look up and look out for powerlines heading into the spring planting
season. 

As farmers make their way back out to the field for
planting season, NPPD is asking equipment operators to be aware of any
powerlines located along the fields they are working in to ensure they can complete
their work safely. “Planting season is a busy time for many of our customers in
the ag community and it’s important that we remind operators the importance of
working safely around powerlines,” says NPPD Transmission and Distribution
Construction and Maintenance Manager Scott Walz. “Many pieces of equipment have
large booms or can sit tall enough to get near powerlines. If equipment gets
close, or contacts a powerline, it can cause serious or fatal injury, and can
also result in power outages and damage to equipment as well as vehicle electronics.”

If a vehicle or piece
of equipment is in contact with a powerline, call 911 or your local power
provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and deenergize the
powerline. When a powerline is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the
vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit
the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet,
and shuffling as far away from the area as possible.

NPPD recommends farmers
review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin
harvest operations. Find more information on farm safety at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety">NPPD.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635505029644.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA PUBLIC POWER DISTRICTCOLUMBUS, Neb.-Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is encouraging
farmers to look up and look out for powerlines heading into the spring planting
season. As farmers make their way back out to the field for
planting season, NPPD is asking equipment operators to be aware of any
powerlines located along the fields they are working in to ensure they can complete
their work safely. “Planting season is a busy time for many of our customers in
the ag community and it’s important that we remind operators the importance of
working safely around powerlines,” says NPPD Transmission and Distribution
Construction and Maintenance Manager Scott Walz. “Many pieces of equipment have
large booms or can sit tall enough to get near powerlines. If equipment gets
close, or contacts a powerline, it can cause serious or fatal injury, and can
also result in power outages and damage to equipment as well as vehicle electronics.”If a vehicle or piece
of equipment is in contact with a powerline, call 911 or your local power
provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and deenergize the
powerline. When a powerline is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the
vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit
the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet,
and shuffling as far away from the area as possible.NPPD recommends farmers
review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin
harvest operations. Find more information on farm safety at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety">NPPD.com</a>.<ul>
 <li>Each day, review
 all farm activities and work practices that will take place around
 powerlines and remind all workers to take precautions.</li><li>Know the location
 of powerlines and when setting up the farm equipment, be at least 20 feet
 away from them. Contact your local public power provider if you feel this
 distance cannot be achieved.</li><li>Use caution when
 raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult
 to estimate distance, and sometimes a powerline is closer than it looks.
 For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe
 distance from the line.</li><li>Always adjust
 portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level – under 14
 feet – before transporting them. Variables like wind, uneven ground, or
 shifting weight can cause unexpected results.</li>
 </ul><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://lh4.googleusercontent.com/e8X58HMHlmd95rqyhjw635Qcz5FkX4LD5s1QfLt5dIK4-kiFi4t5zyIzRIzqRDrGTxgwyGWFvGNKddGQuegny2dyKb9OlCYdnefYvTjJ0UrxNmqcAipjMMLIUIu3Palh22mpWYe39n55O6DLWw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NPPD: Look up, look out for powerlines during spring planting

OGALLALA, Neb.-Officials with the City of Ogallala are taking a proactive approach to the wildfire season, canceling their public fireworks display and banning the discharge of fireworks within the city limits.

Officials announced this morning that the public fireworks display slated for July 4 will not take place.&nbsp;

Officials also said that the discharge of fireworks within the city limits will not be allowed. Typically, residents are allowed to discharge fireworks from June 25 to July 4.

Residents who made donations to the public fireworks display can request a refund in writing at:&nbsp;

City of Ogallala Jane Skinner &nbsp;411 East 2nd Street &nbsp;Ogallala, NE 69153

Donations made will carryover to the next public fireworks display if refunds are not requested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651760963239.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostOGALLALA, Neb.-Officials with the City of Ogallala are taking a proactive approach to the wildfire season, canceling their public fireworks display and banning the discharge of fireworks within the city limits.Officials announced this morning that the public fireworks display slated for July 4 will not take place.&nbsp;Officials also said that the discharge of fireworks within the city limits will not be allowed. Typically, residents are allowed to discharge fireworks from June 25 to July 4.Residents who made donations to the public fireworks display can request a refund in writing at:&nbsp;City of Ogallala Jane Skinner &nbsp;411 East 2nd Street &nbsp;Ogallala, NE 69153Donations made will carryover to the next public fireworks display if refunds are not requested.

Ogallala cancels public fireworks display, prohibits discharge in city limits

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

There is a Marginal Risk for severe thunderstorms across central and western Nebraska this weekend.

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteThere is a Marginal Risk for severe thunderstorms across central and western Nebraska this weekend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651760396923.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Central, western Neb. to see marginal risk for severe weather this weekend

News Release First Presbyterian Church North Platte

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-First
Presbyterian Church (USA) in North Platte is gearing up for this summer’s
premier event. Vacation Bible
School, “Meet us at the Baobab tree!,”
is slated for May 23-27
at the church, 1901 West Leota Street.

“We are ready to meet everyone
at the Baobab tree and explore the safari in a wild and fun-filled week! We are really excited about VBS here at First Presbyterian!”
Pastor Emily McCreery said. “We are looking
at this as not only VBS, but a time for our church and the community
of North Platte to come together, learn about God’s
creation and gifts
and celebrate God’s
love.

“We hope youth and adults join us for the week and then relax with fellowship, food, and water slides at a great cookout and party
on May 27.”

This is an intergenerational event. Each day will begin
with a meal at 5:30 p.m., followed
by singing, devotion, and prayer from 6-6:20 p.m., learning and activities from 6:20-7:40, and then gather back together for singing and prayer 7:40-8 p.m. Each day is centralized around water
through different stories of the Bible.

There
will also be an adult Bible study from 6:20-7:40 each night. We will begin and
end each session together, youth and
adults.

On the final night, May 27 beginning at 5:30, we will host a program where VBS kids
and leaders will sing and produce
a skit, followed by a family cookout
and gigantic water slide.

“This is a complete
family event,” McCreery
said. “There will be learning
for not only youth, but parents and grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors. All are welcome
no matter the denomination or church membership.”

Prior registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcomed. Downloadable registration forms are available at <a href="http://www.fpcnp.org/">www.fpcnp.org.</a>

For more information,
contact the church at 308-532-1083, check out @fpcnp on Facebook, or visit <a href="http://www.fpcnp.org/">www.fpcnp.org.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651751933993.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release First Presbyterian Church North PlatteNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-First
Presbyterian Church (USA) in North Platte is gearing up for this summer’s
premier event. Vacation Bible
School, “Meet us at the Baobab tree!,”
is slated for May 23-27
at the church, 1901 West Leota Street.“We are ready to meet everyone
at the Baobab tree and explore the safari in a wild and fun-filled week! We are really excited about VBS here at First Presbyterian!”
Pastor Emily McCreery said. “We are looking
at this as not only VBS, but a time for our church and the community
of North Platte to come together, learn about God’s
creation and gifts
and celebrate God’s
love.“We hope youth and adults join us for the week and then relax with fellowship, food, and water slides at a great cookout and party
on May 27.”This is an intergenerational event. Each day will begin
with a meal at 5:30 p.m., followed
by singing, devotion, and prayer from 6-6:20 p.m., learning and activities from 6:20-7:40, and then gather back together for singing and prayer 7:40-8 p.m. Each day is centralized around water
through different stories of the Bible.There
will also be an adult Bible study from 6:20-7:40 each night. We will begin and
end each session together, youth and
adults.On the final night, May 27 beginning at 5:30, we will host a program where VBS kids
and leaders will sing and produce
a skit, followed by a family cookout
and gigantic water slide.“This is a complete
family event,” McCreery
said. “There will be learning
for not only youth, but parents and grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors. All are welcome
no matter the denomination or church membership.”Prior registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcomed. Downloadable registration forms are available at <a href="http://www.fpcnp.org/">www.fpcnp.org.</a>For more information,
contact the church at 308-532-1083, check out @fpcnp on Facebook, or visit <a href="http://www.fpcnp.org/">www.fpcnp.org.</a><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://lh4.googleusercontent.com/e8X58HMHlmd95rqyhjw635Qcz5FkX4LD5s1QfLt5dIK4-kiFi4t5zyIzRIzqRDrGTxgwyGWFvGNKddGQuegny2dyKb9OlCYdnefYvTjJ0UrxNmqcAipjMMLIUIu3Palh22mpWYe39n55O6DLWw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Lk-JHxzJAA3j8s05OjxNBu6uamX3heU-ZWJ3ug_f5qcMzB6KrYfQfb9cLXUzhdAzPEkKhD39fWaaHBzOa-tu0M9jbTJ_w35sGs3chpTUr-gic8sm7LsPt3jminjhKGCxY81DTUeRj2njrOdWxw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Do you know of a good story of a person, business, or organization working to make Greater Nebraska better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero?Share your stories on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whats-the-Good-Word-Greater-Nebraska-100942099193470">"What's the Good Word Greater Nebraska" Facebook</a> page. You can also email your ideas to <a href="http://scott.carlson@eagleradio.net/">scott.carlson@eagleradio.net</a>.Share the positivity with North Platte Post!Eagle Communications reserves all rights on the selection of stories submitted.

North Platte First Presbyterian Church to host vacation Bible school

By DR. LARRY GOSSEN NCTA Dean's Message

CURTIS, Neb. (May 4, 2022) The NCTA Class of 2022 has much to celebrate. So does the Class of 2023 as their freshmen year at NCTA also draws to a close this week.

I am proud to be affiliated with these two groups of students. I joined the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in the summer of 2020 as the new dean on campus, just as our current graduates were preparing to begin their college careers in Curtis.

Commencement for the Class of 2022 is Thursday, May 5th. Here are some highlights from this year’s class of 80 candidates.

These Aggies represent nine states with 64 of the 80 from Nebraska. Other states represented are Alaska, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Wyoming with one each; South Dakota with three, and Kansas with seven Aggies.

They have earned credits in coursework during their three years, two years or one year at NCTA to receive an Associate of Applied Science degree, an Associate of Science degree (transfer program to a 4-year institution), or an academic certificate.

Programs in APS include animal science, livestock management, agriculture education, equine management, agricultural mechanics, precision agriculture, agronomy, and more.

Currently, 15 students have earned double majors or added a certificate or two to their portfolio.

At this writing, final exams are yet underway. Class rankings for Grade Point Averages (GPA) are being tallied. Thirteen Aggies are members of Phi Beta Kappa, the academic honorary.

Academic honors including Class Valedictorian and Class Salutatorian will be awarded Wednesday evening. The public is invited to the 7 p.m. ceremony at the Nebraska Agriculture Industry Education Center.

People often ask about students who intend to continue their educational path. We know of 16 who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, with two who started at UNL in January.

We welcome the many friends and family who will be traveling to Curtis for commencement. The ceremony begins at 1:30 p.m. in the Curtis Memorial Community Center, 201 Garlick Avenue.

I recommend arriving early to get a seat and, please, enjoy the reception immediately after. Although we were hopeful to graduation outdoors, forecasts for rain and wind prompted caution to set up and decorate inside on Wednesday.

University of Nebraska Chairman of the Board of Regents Bob Phares will deliver a welcome. NU Vice President Mike Boehm will confer the 101 associate degrees and certificates.

We are honored to be joined by Nebraska’s 3rd&nbsp;District Congressman Adrian M. Smith of Gering for the keynote address.&nbsp;Prior to his election to Congress in 2006, Mr. Smith worked as an educator, real estate agent, and served his hometown as a member of the Gering City Council.

Next, he represented District 48 for eight years in the Nebraska Unicameral. Since 2010, he has served on the Ways and Means Committee of the House of Representatives. He is the lead Republican of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee and a member of the Subcommittee on Health.

He and his wife, Andrea, reside in Gering with their two young children.&nbsp; Welcome back to NCTA and Curtis, Congressman!

I hope to see many community residents join our students, faculty, and staff in recognizing our NCTA Aggies. Also, we wish a hearty&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;to ALL graduates in the Class of 2022!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651751569165.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DR. LARRY GOSSEN NCTA Dean's MessageCURTIS, Neb. (May 4, 2022) The NCTA Class of 2022 has much to celebrate. So does the Class of 2023 as their freshmen year at NCTA also draws to a close this week.I am proud to be affiliated with these two groups of students. I joined the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in the summer of 2020 as the new dean on campus, just as our current graduates were preparing to begin their college careers in Curtis.Commencement for the Class of 2022 is Thursday, May 5th. Here are some highlights from this year’s class of 80 candidates.These Aggies represent nine states with 64 of the 80 from Nebraska. Other states represented are Alaska, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Wyoming with one each; South Dakota with three, and Kansas with seven Aggies.They have earned credits in coursework during their three years, two years or one year at NCTA to receive an Associate of Applied Science degree, an Associate of Science degree (transfer program to a 4-year institution), or an academic certificate.The AAS and AS degrees are awarded in:<ul>
 <li>Agribusiness Management Systems (8 students)</li><li>Agricultural Production Systems (50)</li><li>Veterinary Technology (25)</li>
 </ul>Programs in APS include animal science, livestock management, agriculture education, equine management, agricultural mechanics, precision agriculture, agronomy, and more.Currently, 15 students have earned double majors or added a certificate or two to their portfolio.Certificates will be conferred in:<ul>
 <li>Agricultural Welding</li><li>Agriculture Production Systems</li><li>Equine Training</li><li>Irrigation Technology</li><li>Animal Health Care</li>
 </ul>At this writing, final exams are yet underway. Class rankings for Grade Point Averages (GPA) are being tallied. Thirteen Aggies are members of Phi Beta Kappa, the academic honorary.Academic honors including Class Valedictorian and Class Salutatorian will be awarded Wednesday evening. The public is invited to the 7 p.m. ceremony at the Nebraska Agriculture Industry Education Center.People often ask about students who intend to continue their educational path. We know of 16 who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, with two who started at UNL in January.Indoor graduationWe welcome the many friends and family who will be traveling to Curtis for commencement. The ceremony begins at 1:30 p.m. in the Curtis Memorial Community Center, 201 Garlick Avenue.I recommend arriving early to get a seat and, please, enjoy the reception immediately after. Although we were hopeful to graduation outdoors, forecasts for rain and wind prompted caution to set up and decorate inside on Wednesday.University of Nebraska Chairman of the Board of Regents Bob Phares will deliver a welcome. NU Vice President Mike Boehm will confer the 101 associate degrees and certificates.We are honored to be joined by Nebraska’s 3rd&nbsp;District Congressman Adrian M. Smith of Gering for the keynote address.&nbsp;Prior to his election to Congress in 2006, Mr. Smith worked as an educator, real estate agent, and served his hometown as a member of the Gering City Council.Next, he represented District 48 for eight years in the Nebraska Unicameral. Since 2010, he has served on the Ways and Means Committee of the House of Representatives. He is the lead Republican of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee and a member of the Subcommittee on Health.He and his wife, Andrea, reside in Gering with their two young children.&nbsp; Welcome back to NCTA and Curtis, Congressman!I hope to see many community residents join our students, faculty, and staff in recognizing our NCTA Aggies. Also, we wish a hearty&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;to ALL graduates in the Class of 2022!<figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Lk-JHxzJAA3j8s05OjxNBu6uamX3heU-ZWJ3ug_f5qcMzB6KrYfQfb9cLXUzhdAzPEkKhD39fWaaHBzOa-tu0M9jbTJ_w35sGs3chpTUr-gic8sm7LsPt3jminjhKGCxY81DTUeRj2njrOdWxw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Do you know of a good story of a person, business, or organization working to make Greater Nebraska better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero?Share your stories on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whats-the-Good-Word-Greater-Nebraska-100942099193470">"What's the Good Word Greater Nebraska" Facebook</a> page. You can also email your ideas to <a href="http://scott.carlson@eagleradio.net/">scott.carlson@eagleradio.net</a>.Share the positivity with North Platte Post!Eagle Communications reserves all rights on the selection of stories submitted.<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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NCTA Dean celebrates Class of 2022

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man has been arrested after he allegedly assaulted a juvenile during an argument.

Police said on April 30, at around 5:57 p.m., officers responded to the 1500 block of W. 14th St. where a disturbance involving a juvenile was reported.

Officers arrived and learned the juvenile involved had left the area on foot.

Officers located the juvenile and observed injuries to her face.&nbsp;

Police said officers investigated further and learned that the juvenile had been involved in an argument with Clark Brown, 40.

Police said during the argument, Brown held the juvenile down by her throat and punched her in the face.

The juvenile was transported to Great Plains Health and treated for her injuries.

Police said probable cause was established to arrest Brown and, on May 3, he was taken into custody on suspicion of assault, strangulation and child abuse.

Brown was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651694824090.png" alt="Brown" />
 <figcaption>Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man has been arrested after he allegedly assaulted a juvenile during an argument.Police said on April 30, at around 5:57 p.m., officers responded to the 1500 block of W. 14th St. where a disturbance involving a juvenile was reported.Officers arrived and learned the juvenile involved had left the area on foot.Officers located the juvenile and observed injuries to her face.&nbsp;Police said officers investigated further and learned that the juvenile had been involved in an argument with Clark Brown, 40.Police said during the argument, Brown held the juvenile down by her throat and punched her in the face.The juvenile was transported to Great Plains Health and treated for her injuries.Police said probable cause was established to arrest Brown and, on May 3, he was taken into custody on suspicion of assault, strangulation and child abuse.Brown was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

North Platte man accused of choking, punching juvenile during argument

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man is in jail after a police officer was injured while arresting him on domestic violence allegations.

According to police, on May 2 at around 9:21 a.m., officers responded to the report of an assault in the 600 block of E. 4th St.

Officers arrived and met with a victim who reported they had been assaulted by Jonathan Alsip, 34.

The victim told officers they had been attacked by Alsip who approached them from behind and struck them several times in the face and neck. Police said officers observed redness in the area that corroborated the victim's account.

Officers attempted to locate Alsip but were unable to.

On May 3, at around 3:48 p.m., officers responded to the report of a suspicious person in the 400 block of E. 6th St.

Officers arrived and found Alsip in the area.

As officers attempted to take him into custody on the domestic violence allegations, police said Alsip fled and officers pursued him.

Police said Alsip continued to struggle with officers who deployed a Taser. Alsip was then taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of domestic assault, assault on a police officer, and resisting arrest.

Police said one of the arresting officers suffered minor injuries during the altercation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651659213230.png" alt="Alsip" />
 <figcaption>Alsip</figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man is in jail after a police officer was injured while arresting him on domestic violence allegations.According to police, on May 2 at around 9:21 a.m., officers responded to the report of an assault in the 600 block of E. 4th St.Officers arrived and met with a victim who reported they had been assaulted by Jonathan Alsip, 34.The victim told officers they had been attacked by Alsip who approached them from behind and struck them several times in the face and neck. Police said officers observed redness in the area that corroborated the victim's account.Officers attempted to locate Alsip but were unable to.On May 3, at around 3:48 p.m., officers responded to the report of a suspicious person in the 400 block of E. 6th St.Officers arrived and found Alsip in the area.As officers attempted to take him into custody on the domestic violence allegations, police said Alsip fled and officers pursued him.Police said Alsip continued to struggle with officers who deployed a Taser. Alsip was then taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of domestic assault, assault on a police officer, and resisting arrest.Police said one of the arresting officers suffered minor injuries during the altercation.

North Platte officer injured arresting domestic violence suspect

CHADRON – Chadron State College undergraduate and graduate candidates will be honored in a combined ceremony Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Chicoine Center. Nebraska State College System Chancellor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12675" target="_blank">Dr. Paul D. Turman</a>&nbsp;will be the speaker for the event. It will also be broadcast online at&nbsp;<a href="https://rmacnetwork.com/chadronstate/" target="_blank">CSC Live</a>.

Following is the list of candidates by degree, beginning with graduate students. Home addresses are provided by the students.

Undergraduate candidates who have earned academic honors are designated as: ***Summa cum laude, 3.9-4.0 GPA, **Magna cum laude, 3.75-3.89 GPA, *Cum laude, 3.6-3.74 GPA

Scottsbluff: Amanda Hadenfeldt, Tiandra Lozoya

Delma Richard Church Jr., Hamptonville, N.C.

Master of Science in Organizational Management

Allen: Nathan Bausch*, Autumn Hoff, Rachel Schoeneman

Chadron: Zachary Carattini, Ricki Hickstein***, Denita Julius, Denise Marcoe**, Aubree Noble**, Clark Riesen**

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College undergraduate and graduate candidates will be honored in a combined ceremony Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Chicoine Center. Nebraska State College System Chancellor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12675" target="_blank">Dr. Paul D. Turman</a>&nbsp;will be the speaker for the event. It will also be broadcast online at&nbsp;<a href="https://rmacnetwork.com/chadronstate/" target="_blank">CSC Live</a>.Following is the list of candidates by degree, beginning with graduate students. Home addresses are provided by the students.Undergraduate candidates who have earned academic honors are designated as: ***Summa cum laude, 3.9-4.0 GPA, **Magna cum laude, 3.75-3.89 GPA, *Cum laude, 3.6-3.74 GPAMaster of Arts in EducationNebraskaAlliance: Christine Jelinek, Julie WeemsChadron: Eric CalkinsDavid City: Kiley McGillElmwood: Heather BornemeierHastings: Courtney BenscoterNebraska City: Sarah KnutsonNewman Grove: Angie FlinnNorth Bend: Elizabeth WessOgallala: Makayla CrawfordOrchard: Cierra MortenPierce: Alissa HoffmannScottsbluff: Amanda Hadenfeldt, Tiandra LozoyaWyomingGillette: Clifford TooleNewcastle: Channing JonsRock Springs: Kaylee TuttleSaratoga: Heather OxfordSheridan: Donald ClabaughTorrington: James BedientWheatland: Kara SandlianOther States and CountriesMichael Welge, Anchorage, AlaskaKristin Decker, Denver, Colo.Kinsley Mason, Loveland, Colo.Delma Richard Church Jr., Hamptonville, N.C.Andrew Jensen, Wakonda, S.D.Darren Benson, Vancouver, Wash.Joshua Hudson, Stafford, UKMaster of Business AdministrationNebraskaAlliance: Jordan MakChadron: Dana Muenchau, Darla ReedChadron: Kaci WaughGordon: Kris BoardmanPapillion: Thomas TownsendOther States and CountriesBimal Sah, Medford, Mass.Katharine Impellizzeri, Ann Arbor, Mich.Uchechukwu Enefazu-Ossai, Lagos, NigeriaStephen Murdock, Erie, Pa.Brandi Ferguson, Hill City, S.D.Leslie tenBensel, Piedmont, S.D.Swaranga Fernando, Colombo, Sri LankaAnastasia Hoogland, Austin, TexasJustin Williamson, New Braunfels, TexasTucker Allison, Moorcroft, Wyo.Master of EducationNebraskaBroken Bow: Karly MackCarleton: Garrett ZouchaElsie: Cherie McClintockFremont: Alexandria GillHarrisburg: Karen ValdesOsceola: Jenna MattoxScottsbluff: Megan RustSidney: Jeffery Lee Maddox IIWallace: Jolene ChristnerOther States and CountriesTimmi Keisel, Sterling, Colo.Patricia Miller, Newcastle, Wyo.Alondra Munoz, Newcastle, Wyo.Master of Science in Organizational ManagementNebraskaMallory Morrell, Arthur, Neb.Alexandria Nobiling, Chadron, Neb.Joseph Ritzen, Chadron, Neb.Nicholas Bibb, Gering, Neb.Amy Nelson, Kimball, Neb.Other States and CountriesAllison Curtis, Longmont, Colo.Travis Wilson, Fresno, Calif.Carolyn Ferguson, Rockaway, N.J.Zoe Anderson, Hot Springs, S.D.Bachelor of Applied ScienceEva Oliver, Merriman, Neb.Rebekah Rodriguez***, Albuquerque, N.M.Christopher Greco, Berwick, Pa.Marissa Hassinger, Jersey Shore, Pa.Julie Kesner, Rapid City, S.D.Jeremiah Luna, San Diego, TexasBachelor of ArtsNebraskaAllen: Nathan Bausch*, Autumn Hoff, Rachel SchoenemanAuburn: Johnnie GillBayard: Jakob Huck***Beaver City: Ana Salinas MunizBig Springs: Caprice BrownBridgeport: Kassandra MarxBroadwater: Mariah MulveyBroken Bow: Caleb SmithBurwell: Tyler GideonChadron: Zachary Carattini, Ricki Hickstein***, Denita Julius, Denise Marcoe**, Aubree Noble**, Clark Riesen**Crawford: Aydin GarvinDalton: Janessa Carley***Elwood: Ethan WoehrleEwing: Jamie Koenig***Gordon: Jarrod PaulGrand Island: Ruth Mencia**Hay Springs: Robert Deaver*, Wesley TlustosHemingford: Ethan SkinnerHyannis: Alyssa HamptonImperial: Amber StumpffMcCook: Cassiddy Beeby*, Kaleb TaylorMinatare: Gilbert Rodriguez II**Minden: Rylie ColeMitchell: Emily Garl, Jori Peters***Mullen: Shayna Stichka***North Bend: Ashley WegnerNorth Platte: Kelsey Dailey, Tacie Lucas***Omaha: Harrison Perchal**, Hannah Rodgers, Sarah RodgersOrchard: Jessica Shaver**Paxton: Rebecca WhitePlattsmouth: Christina HansonRockville: Kimberly BarentRushville: Amanda HotzScottsbluff: Trevor Brunner***, Cynthia Clark, Nicholas Foote, Mason RamigSidney: Carissa RadtkeStratton: Natalie Boyd***Thedford: Mackenzie Dahlberg***Valentine: Amos UtechtWilcox: Paige Twohig*CaliforniaBakersfield: Miranda VasquezFresno: Bobby PeeleGardena: Alexander RossInglewood: Estabon BozemanLos Angeles: Richard Lee Harbor III, Loran MaldonadoOceanside: Gabrielle RussellTemecula: Cole CondonColoradoAurora: Nicolle Baquet, Donovan Modisett-Staats, Maurice WyattBrighton: Emma BolyardBrush: Erica Dardanes*, Estefanie Estupinan VegaColorado Springs: Laura Clay***, CJ Jennings, Damien ZunigaDenver: Tyreek Bryant, Kendal Johnson**, Juan SanchezElizabeth: Lena Aslan***Fort Morgan: Kandice KnappGlenwood Springs: Tatum Peterson*Greeley: Aracely HernandezHighlands Ranch: Tayven BrayJohnstown: Brock VothJulesburg: Brennan EhmkeLakewood: Peyton ProppParachute: Kayla FredrichSterling: Jessica PetersonYuma: Avery WhiteheadSouth DakotaBlack Hawk: Skyler Eisenbraun***Box Elder: Andrew CorbineFort Pierre: Nathan Cronin***Hermosa: Seth Shorb**Hot Springs: Samuel LaRive, Alex MerchenKadoka: Patrick BrownMitchell: Allison MillerPorcupine: Clancy CliffordRapid City: Jacob Larson**, Kalli QuickeSpearfish: Keithan Funk, Reece WalnoSummerset: Jessica PekronWessington Springs: Sierra Brodkorb*WyomingCasper: Kelly Thomas***Cheyenne: Mia MacDonald**, Rebecca Monahan***Gillete: Madison Carter**, Aimee Conner**, Amanda WoodLander: William AtnipLusk: Miranda GilkeyMountain View: Bailey LupherNewcastle: Arianna Anderson*, Teigen Marchant, Melody Norris***Pine Bluffs: Ishmael DePaulitteOther States and CountriesIsna Patel**, Huntsville, Ala.Kathryn Clark, Munford, Ala.Jahani Wright, Miami Gardens, Fla.Laura Otter***, Lincoln, Ill.Tia Kohl**, Wichita, Kan.John Cumper***, Atlanta, Mich.Kincaid Strain, Elk River, Minn.Semiah Reed, Newark, N.J.Justin Calderon, Levittown, N.Y.Crystal Protsman, Van Wert, OhioNicholas Minich, Wilkes Barre, Pa.Steven Demetrius Allen II, Koxville, Tenn.Kassidee Lind, Bow, Wash.Meron Ameha**, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaElham Zeinuddin, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaImran Ayele*, Dessie, EthiopiaMohannad Alhusaini, Amman, JordanBachelor of ScienceNebraskaAlliance: Hannah KorteBassett: Megan Erickson**Chadron: Drew Jersild**, Renee Redfern, Kylee Skinner***Chambers: Kenade TomjackCrawford: Kristin Van Beek*Dix: Jaden Mohr*Gering: Brandon WallaceGrand Island: Rebekah Pobanz***Hebron: Brendan Fangmeier*Hebron: Justin Gress**Imperial: Scott Wheeler*Juniata: Abigail Klammer***Kenesaw: Teya Sidders*Lincoln: Sydney SettlesOgallala: Jordan OrrPlattsmouth: Josslyn Linse*Randolph: McKinna Faulkenberry**Valentine: Chad McPeak**, Grace Robison**Wausa: Thea Rosberg*Wisner: Alexis Heller***Other States and CountriesKael Juelfs**, Kingman, Ariz.Hayden McGinnis***, Buena Vista, Colo.Camryn Klein*, Highlands Ranch, Colo.Allison Keisel***, Sterling, Colo.Timothy May, Rapid City, S.D.Stran Holben**, Spearfish, S.D.Riley Hill**, Greybull, Wyo.Andrea Pfeil, Moorcroft, Wyo.Isioma Akwanamnye*, Lagos, NigeriaBachelor of Science in EducationNebraskaAlliance: Kaitlin FailorAshby: Ashley Anderson***Bayard: Shania Bozzetto***, Sarah Reish***Beaver City: Beth Fisher***Brady: Rebecca Stearns***Burwell: Faith Simon**Chadron: Katarina Rischling***Chappell: Dane McConnellFairbury: Trent Grizzle*Gering: Kaylee Bohnsack***Grant: Andrea Lee***Hastings: Daria Dart***Lisco: Megan Dormann***Maxwell: Tallyn SimpsonMcCool Junction: William Hall**Mitchell: Olivia Trimble*Morrill: Kaitlin HowellNiobrara: Penny ReynoldsNorth Platte: Juwan OrtizOdell: Paige VitoshOmaha: Cody Madrigal**Osmond: Catherine WilliamsSaint Paul: Megan LuchtScottsbluff: Rebecca DeWitt, Kyeisha Garza, Kaitlyn Hayhurst***, Blake NikontTecumseh: Emily RetchlessValentine: Kara BrashearsSouth DakotaBox Elder: Cassie HamerCuster: Julianne Thomsen*Edgemont: Jessica Tubbs**Rapid City: George Johnson*, Shayna Kintigh***WyomingHulett: Devin Hodges**Kemmerer: Angela Smith**Lovell: Trysa Flood***Midwest: Hannah Chapman*Newcastle: Rachel Henkle**Sheridan: Ashlyn Duncan**, Destiny Park***Sundance: Gabrielle Velder*Torrington: Stacy BakerOther States and CountriesCody Paul, La Palma, Calif.Dylan Koretko*, Milliken, Colo.Jordyn Brann, Wellington, Colo.Amanda Wells***, Mulvane, Kan.Andrea Swenson***, Broadus, Mont.

Chadron State College Commencement set for Saturday

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is looking to provide additional hunting and fishing opportunities on private lands through its Open Fields and Waters Program.

Landowners willing to allow public, walk-in access for hunting or fishing can receive annual, per-acre payments through the program. Participating landowners are afforded liability protection through the Nebraska Recreational Liability Act. Additional financial incentives often are available for habitat improvements, such as Conservation Reserve Program enrollment or management upgrades.

Game and Parks primarily is seeking to add the following types of enrollments, but all properties offering high-quality hunting or fishing opportunities will be considered:

Conservation Reserve Program –&nbsp;CRP fields provide excellent hunting opportunities for upland game birds and acres in any part of the state will be considered. Landowners can receive up to $10 per acre for CRP, depending upon location and habitat quality.

Wetland Reserve Program easements –&nbsp;Landowners who have Wetland Reserve Program easements can earn up to $15 per acre for accessible portions of WRP easements with suitable habitats.

Grasslands –&nbsp;High-quality grassland habitat that provides mixed-bag hunting opportunities for upland game birds and big game species are being sought statewide. Properties in the Sandhills supporting prairie grouse, mule deer and/or antelope are a priority, along with sites in south-central and southeastern Nebraska that offer quail and/or white-tailed deer hunting opportunities.

Woodlands –&nbsp;Heavily timbered areas along riparian corridors and those with canyon-like topography are being pursued in many areas. Rates for high-quality woodlands range from $5 to $15 per acre, depending on habitat quality and location.

Fishing access –&nbsp;Ponds, lakes, warm-water streams or rivers and cool-water streams with trout are potential targets. Payment rates are per surface acre on lakes and ponds and per stream mile on streams or rivers.

For more information about Open Fields and Waters, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDMuNTczNTU4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvT0ZXIn0.xodzawKrFp9M2h2G5thHh3Kvc8Qtybe770hsUZgv8jk/s/1372948182/br/130743888303-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/OFW</a>. Interested landowners should contact a biologist at their nearest Game and Parks district office or service center (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDMuNTczNTU4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvTG9jYXRpb25zIn0.Kkcphi5jex5RbRQpg8iqCjzjfaA7-dEMI-4W-DVOVbo/s/1372948182/br/130743888303-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/Locations</a>).

Since 2016, more than 147,000 acres have been added to Open Fields and Waters and current statewide enrollment is at an all-time high. More than 850 private landowners participated in the program in 2021-22. Those landowners provided walk-in hunting and fishing opportunities across 381,000-plus land acres, more than 500 acres of ponds and lakes and more than 42 stream miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Funding for the Open Fields and Waters Program primarily is provided by a grant obtained through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Voluntary Public Access – Habitat Incentive Program and Pittman-Robertson funds (Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration Act). In addition, Game and Parks uses funds from Habitat Stamp and hunting license sales, and contributions from partners to fund the program and increase opportunities for hunting, trapping and fishing on Nebraska’s private lands.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651673023393.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKSThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is looking to provide additional hunting and fishing opportunities on private lands through its Open Fields and Waters Program.Landowners willing to allow public, walk-in access for hunting or fishing can receive annual, per-acre payments through the program. Participating landowners are afforded liability protection through the Nebraska Recreational Liability Act. Additional financial incentives often are available for habitat improvements, such as Conservation Reserve Program enrollment or management upgrades.Game and Parks primarily is seeking to add the following types of enrollments, but all properties offering high-quality hunting or fishing opportunities will be considered:Conservation Reserve Program –&nbsp;CRP fields provide excellent hunting opportunities for upland game birds and acres in any part of the state will be considered. Landowners can receive up to $10 per acre for CRP, depending upon location and habitat quality.Wetland Reserve Program easements –&nbsp;Landowners who have Wetland Reserve Program easements can earn up to $15 per acre for accessible portions of WRP easements with suitable habitats.Grasslands –&nbsp;High-quality grassland habitat that provides mixed-bag hunting opportunities for upland game birds and big game species are being sought statewide. Properties in the Sandhills supporting prairie grouse, mule deer and/or antelope are a priority, along with sites in south-central and southeastern Nebraska that offer quail and/or white-tailed deer hunting opportunities.Woodlands –&nbsp;Heavily timbered areas along riparian corridors and those with canyon-like topography are being pursued in many areas. Rates for high-quality woodlands range from $5 to $15 per acre, depending on habitat quality and location.Fishing access –&nbsp;Ponds, lakes, warm-water streams or rivers and cool-water streams with trout are potential targets. Payment rates are per surface acre on lakes and ponds and per stream mile on streams or rivers.For more information about Open Fields and Waters, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDMuNTczNTU4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvT0ZXIn0.xodzawKrFp9M2h2G5thHh3Kvc8Qtybe770hsUZgv8jk/s/1372948182/br/130743888303-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/OFW</a>. Interested landowners should contact a biologist at their nearest Game and Parks district office or service center (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDMuNTczNTU4ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvTG9jYXRpb25zIn0.Kkcphi5jex5RbRQpg8iqCjzjfaA7-dEMI-4W-DVOVbo/s/1372948182/br/130743888303-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/Locations</a>).Since 2016, more than 147,000 acres have been added to Open Fields and Waters and current statewide enrollment is at an all-time high. More than 850 private landowners participated in the program in 2021-22. Those landowners provided walk-in hunting and fishing opportunities across 381,000-plus land acres, more than 500 acres of ponds and lakes and more than 42 stream miles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Funding for the Open Fields and Waters Program primarily is provided by a grant obtained through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Voluntary Public Access – Habitat Incentive Program and Pittman-Robertson funds (Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration Act). In addition, Game and Parks uses funds from Habitat Stamp and hunting license sales, and contributions from partners to fund the program and increase opportunities for hunting, trapping and fishing on Nebraska’s private lands.

Neb. Open Fields and Waters Program seeking new enrollments

It is natural for some people who see a young wild animal apparently abandoned by its mother to want to rescue it. The correct course of action is to leave it alone.

Here are some rules of thumb from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regarding wildlife babies:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651672915034.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKSIt is natural for some people who see a young wild animal apparently abandoned by its mother to want to rescue it. The correct course of action is to leave it alone.Here are some rules of thumb from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regarding wildlife babies:<ul>
 <li>A lone fawn, or other young bird or mammal, may appear to be abandoned or injured, but the mother frequently is off feeding or drinking. Do not move it. The longer the fawn is separated from its mother, the slimmer the chance that it will be reunited with her. In some cases, other deer will adopt an orphaned fawn.</li><li>It is normal for a doe to leave its fawn to keep it from being detected by predators. Predators can see the doe as it feeds, so she leaves the fawn hidden and leaves the area to draw attention away from the fawn's location.</li><li>Do not try to raise wildlife babies as pets. As animals mature, they become more independent and follow natural instincts to leave and establish their own territories. Rescued animals are poorly prepared for life in the wild.</li><li>Most wildlife babies are protected by state or federal law and it is illegal to possess them.</li>
 </ul>

Public urged to leave wildlife babies alone

By GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS Governor's Weekly Column

Nebraskans have long been strong supporters of the right to keep and bear arms.&nbsp; Nearly 85 years after it was enshrined in the Second Amendment at the federal level, Nebraska’s leaders chose to make our stance on gun rights crystal clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article I of the Nebraska Constitution proclaims that “the right to keep and bear arms for security or defense of self, family, home, and others, and for lawful common defense, hunting, recreational use, and all other lawful purposes...shall not be denied or infringed by the state or any subdivision thereof.” &nbsp;This should serve as the exclamation point on where Nebraska stands in its commitment to constitutional gun rights.

But we can do better for Nebraskans. &nbsp;Right now, law-abiding citizens must jump through burdensome hoops to carry a concealed firearm.&nbsp; Our Nebraska State Patrol has done a phenomenal job streamlining the permitting process.&nbsp; But statutory hurdles remain.&nbsp; Existing state law requires individuals wishing to carry their legally owned firearm to first complete a handgun training and safety course; fill out a concealed handgun permit application; and then travel to the nearest Nebraska State Patrol Troop Headquarters to submit the application and undergo fingerprinting and a background check.&nbsp; Then, they must wait until the application is processed and the permit is issued.&nbsp; At best, these steps are a nuisance to law-abiding citizens looking to exercise their Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; At worst, they are a barrier to those looking to protect themselves, such as victims of stalking or harassment.&nbsp; Under constitutional carry, law-abiding Nebraskans who have already undergone the background check needed to purchase a handgun would not have to wait for a permit to carry concealed.

Nebraska can join the growing number of states who’ve taken action to get rid of these restrictions.&nbsp; Alabama, Georgia, Ohio, and Indiana all enacted constitutional or permitless carry legislation in 2022.&nbsp; Nebraska’s neighboring states of Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, South Dakota, and Wyoming are also among the 25 states with constitutional or permitless carry laws.&nbsp; Over 120 million Americans live under these laws, with more states looking to enact them.&nbsp; Just last week, Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference to call on Florida’s legislature to pass constitutional carry legislation.

This year, Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon introduced and prioritized LB 773 in an effort to bring constitutional carry to Nebraska.&nbsp; A solid majority of senators supported the bill, but it fell just two votes short of the 33 needed to overcome a filibuster.&nbsp; The final vote that failed to advance the bill was 31-9.&nbsp; All nine opponents were Democrats.

The typical arguments against constitutional carry simply don’t hold water.&nbsp; For example, concealed carry laws don’t decrease safety.&nbsp; The&nbsp;U.S. News and World Report&nbsp;has published public safety rankings for each state based on the FBI’s latest available data.&nbsp; The top three states for public safety are Maine, New Hampshire, and Idaho.&nbsp; All three are constitutional carry states.

Furthermore, constitutional carry legislation doesn’t mean abandoning common sense restrictions that prevent dangerous criminals from carrying guns.&nbsp; The legislation only seeks to eliminate regulations that require a&nbsp;law-abiding&nbsp;citizen&nbsp;to carry a permit while carrying their concealed firearm.&nbsp;

At the end of the day, constitutional carry is about rights.&nbsp; A citizen authorized by law to possess a firearm shouldn’t have to pay a fee and ask permission from the government to exercise their Second Amendment rights.

I’m confident it’s only a matter of time before constitutional carry comes to Nebraska.&nbsp; But it won’t happen without the determined activism of Second Amendment advocates in our state.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to see how their senator voted on LB 773 by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2Fbills%2Fview_votes.php%3FKeyID%3D8166&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hYtxDsCrtOkzQfgTOqW%2FSkfqd8HUYOTIbNNF6sE2cf0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

The National Rifle Association also grades political candidates based on their support for Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; You can view those grades by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nrapvf.org%2Fgrades%2Fnebraska%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=25C7GNm5pmrKRBlvK%2FnRN4A6laODeelscoYii0LhEvM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

While we work on constitutional carry legislation in Nebraska, we also need to be forward thinking.&nbsp; To preserve our right to bear arms, we must individually pass on our love for and understanding of the Second Amendment to the next generation.&nbsp; The “Take ‘em Hunting” program offered by Nebraska Game and Parks is a great way to do this.&nbsp; The program encourages veteran hunters to take a beginner with them and pass their knowledge on.&nbsp; Hunters can submit a picture and story of their experience online to be entered in a drawing for prizes (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Ftakeemhunting&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TnQShCOZssJTSFSwD5SH4KAXtXzBprRIGE%2BMa8bc0UU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/takeemhunting</a>). &nbsp;This program has been hugely successful. &nbsp;In just its third year, it’s already introduced more than 2,000 Nebraskans to hunting.&nbsp; This year, “Take ’em Hunting” will run through the end of the spring turkey season on May 31, 2022.&nbsp; So, when you go out to hunt this month, I encourage you to share your passion by taking someone with you.&nbsp;

Our freedom to keep and bear arms is rooted in the recognition that our rights are given to us by God, not by the government.&nbsp; These rights, declared in both our federal and state constitutions, shouldn’t be costly and time-consuming to exercise.&nbsp; Together, let’s work to end the lengthy delay and cost in order to conceal carry in Nebraska.

If you have questions about my support for Second Amendment rights, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GOVERNOR PETE RICKETTS Governor's Weekly ColumnNebraskans have long been strong supporters of the right to keep and bear arms.&nbsp; Nearly 85 years after it was enshrined in the Second Amendment at the federal level, Nebraska’s leaders chose to make our stance on gun rights crystal clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article I of the Nebraska Constitution proclaims that “the right to keep and bear arms for security or defense of self, family, home, and others, and for lawful common defense, hunting, recreational use, and all other lawful purposes...shall not be denied or infringed by the state or any subdivision thereof.” &nbsp;This should serve as the exclamation point on where Nebraska stands in its commitment to constitutional gun rights.But we can do better for Nebraskans. &nbsp;Right now, law-abiding citizens must jump through burdensome hoops to carry a concealed firearm.&nbsp; Our Nebraska State Patrol has done a phenomenal job streamlining the permitting process.&nbsp; But statutory hurdles remain.&nbsp; Existing state law requires individuals wishing to carry their legally owned firearm to first complete a handgun training and safety course; fill out a concealed handgun permit application; and then travel to the nearest Nebraska State Patrol Troop Headquarters to submit the application and undergo fingerprinting and a background check.&nbsp; Then, they must wait until the application is processed and the permit is issued.&nbsp; At best, these steps are a nuisance to law-abiding citizens looking to exercise their Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; At worst, they are a barrier to those looking to protect themselves, such as victims of stalking or harassment.&nbsp; Under constitutional carry, law-abiding Nebraskans who have already undergone the background check needed to purchase a handgun would not have to wait for a permit to carry concealed.Nebraska can join the growing number of states who’ve taken action to get rid of these restrictions.&nbsp; Alabama, Georgia, Ohio, and Indiana all enacted constitutional or permitless carry legislation in 2022.&nbsp; Nebraska’s neighboring states of Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, South Dakota, and Wyoming are also among the 25 states with constitutional or permitless carry laws.&nbsp; Over 120 million Americans live under these laws, with more states looking to enact them.&nbsp; Just last week, Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference to call on Florida’s legislature to pass constitutional carry legislation.This year, Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon introduced and prioritized LB 773 in an effort to bring constitutional carry to Nebraska.&nbsp; A solid majority of senators supported the bill, but it fell just two votes short of the 33 needed to overcome a filibuster.&nbsp; The final vote that failed to advance the bill was 31-9.&nbsp; All nine opponents were Democrats.The typical arguments against constitutional carry simply don’t hold water.&nbsp; For example, concealed carry laws don’t decrease safety.&nbsp; The&nbsp;U.S. News and World Report&nbsp;has published public safety rankings for each state based on the FBI’s latest available data.&nbsp; The top three states for public safety are Maine, New Hampshire, and Idaho.&nbsp; All three are constitutional carry states.Furthermore, constitutional carry legislation doesn’t mean abandoning common sense restrictions that prevent dangerous criminals from carrying guns.&nbsp; The legislation only seeks to eliminate regulations that require a&nbsp;law-abiding&nbsp;citizen&nbsp;to carry a permit while carrying their concealed firearm.&nbsp;At the end of the day, constitutional carry is about rights.&nbsp; A citizen authorized by law to possess a firearm shouldn’t have to pay a fee and ask permission from the government to exercise their Second Amendment rights.I’m confident it’s only a matter of time before constitutional carry comes to Nebraska.&nbsp; But it won’t happen without the determined activism of Second Amendment advocates in our state.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to see how their senator voted on LB 773 by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2Fbills%2Fview_votes.php%3FKeyID%3D8166&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hYtxDsCrtOkzQfgTOqW%2FSkfqd8HUYOTIbNNF6sE2cf0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;The National Rifle Association also grades political candidates based on their support for Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; You can view those grades by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nrapvf.org%2Fgrades%2Fnebraska%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=25C7GNm5pmrKRBlvK%2FnRN4A6laODeelscoYii0LhEvM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.While we work on constitutional carry legislation in Nebraska, we also need to be forward thinking.&nbsp; To preserve our right to bear arms, we must individually pass on our love for and understanding of the Second Amendment to the next generation.&nbsp; The “Take ‘em Hunting” program offered by Nebraska Game and Parks is a great way to do this.&nbsp; The program encourages veteran hunters to take a beginner with them and pass their knowledge on.&nbsp; Hunters can submit a picture and story of their experience online to be entered in a drawing for prizes (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Ftakeemhunting&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TnQShCOZssJTSFSwD5SH4KAXtXzBprRIGE%2BMa8bc0UU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/takeemhunting</a>). &nbsp;This program has been hugely successful. &nbsp;In just its third year, it’s already introduced more than 2,000 Nebraskans to hunting.&nbsp; This year, “Take ’em Hunting” will run through the end of the spring turkey season on May 31, 2022.&nbsp; So, when you go out to hunt this month, I encourage you to share your passion by taking someone with you.&nbsp;Our freedom to keep and bear arms is rooted in the recognition that our rights are given to us by God, not by the government.&nbsp; These rights, declared in both our federal and state constitutions, shouldn’t be costly and time-consuming to exercise.&nbsp; Together, let’s work to end the lengthy delay and cost in order to conceal carry in Nebraska.If you have questions about my support for Second Amendment rights, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&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://lh4.googleusercontent.com/e8X58HMHlmd95rqyhjw635Qcz5FkX4LD5s1QfLt5dIK4-kiFi4t5zyIzRIzqRDrGTxgwyGWFvGNKddGQuegny2dyKb9OlCYdnefYvTjJ0UrxNmqcAipjMMLIUIu3Palh22mpWYe39n55O6DLWw" alt="" />
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Gov. Ricketts: Enhancing Nebraska’s commitment to protecting 2nd Amendment rights

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One of the first signs in North Platte that Summer is just around the corner...ice cream and other goodies at Cody Park.

Cody Park Concessions opened last week and they are currently open during the week from 5:00-9:00 p.m.

Officials said the rides are expected to open for the season on May 27.

Cody Park Rides and Concessions have provided Summer entertainment and scrumptious treats for over 50 years.

Group, non-profit, must request in writing 5 days in advance of the date needed to Public Service Director. If approved, these can only be used on non-holiday weekdays. Groups must purchase a minimum of 250 tickets and they must be used within 7 days of the date of purchase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651612648078.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One of the first signs in North Platte that Summer is just around the corner...ice cream and other goodies at Cody Park.Cody Park Concessions opened last week and they are currently open during the week from 5:00-9:00 p.m.Officials said the rides are expected to open for the season on May 27.Cody Park Rides and Concessions have provided Summer entertainment and scrumptious treats for over 50 years.Kiddie RidesPer single ticket purchase	$0.75Per ticket purchase	4 for $2.00Ticket price per group	10 for $3.00Group, non-profit, must request in writing 5 days in advance of the date needed to Public Service Director. If approved, these can only be used on non-holiday weekdays. Groups must purchase a minimum of 250 tickets and they must be used within 7 days of the date of purchase.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651612624359.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/KgpR_CM3If06Zku_D0nzsaPrueiFxhz1sEZ4Mu_CqwCXh6VU77o1yiZygNt8s-WCbn0R0QzZX8oGX0tA3hFQZ0CkS3kc8IGx-9SW5ljpQul6C83pFqm3Nkl4TjGOT1iRqVtdgeG0" alt="" />
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 </figure>Do you know of a good story of a person, business, or organization working to make Greater Nebraska better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero?Share your stories on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whats-the-Good-Word-Greater-Nebraska-100942099193470">"What's the Good Word Greater Nebraska" Facebook</a> page. You can also email your ideas to <a href="http://scott.carlson@eagleradio.net/">scott.carlson@eagleradio.net</a>.Share the positivity with North Platte Post!Eagle Communications reserves all rights on the selection of stories submitted.<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/OouzxwDURKvyvMVuPpnPpjT4NyDfMrMU8SbAYH_rzoghEpSmar-3iuFagSe8Xy5crQYHobDFKwGUIN1FfOJlYSmINBjXeH3KphroGmJyUCtPea3VYY9xuobmGA00oDneeV06L0hE" alt="" />
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Cody Park Concessions open, rides opening soon

News Release North Platte Area Sports Commission

The Nebraska School Activities Association, North Platte Area Sports Commission, and Lake Maloney Golf Course need volunteer help from golf enthusiasts!

The Boys Class D State Golf Tournament will be held May&nbsp;24 and 25.

It takes a small army of volunteers to host a championship event for these boys! 

Volunteering involves a five to eight-hour job where you will be assisting the participants with recording their strokes, watching tee shots, looking for lost balls, communicating scores, and more.

Lunch will be provided along with a complimentary NSAA jacket.

The deadline to sign up is May 6. You can register to help <a href="https://form.jotform.com/193605204701146">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651599371036.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release North Platte Area Sports CommissionThe Nebraska School Activities Association, North Platte Area Sports Commission, and Lake Maloney Golf Course need volunteer help from golf enthusiasts!The Boys Class D State Golf Tournament will be held May&nbsp;24 and 25.It takes a small army of volunteers to host a championship event for these boys! Volunteering involves a five to eight-hour job where you will be assisting the participants with recording their strokes, watching tee shots, looking for lost balls, communicating scores, and more.Lunch will be provided along with a complimentary NSAA jacket. The deadline to sign up is May 6. You can register to help <a href="https://form.jotform.com/193605204701146">HERE</a>.

Volunteers sought for Boys Class D State Golf in North Platte

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A spokeswoman for Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says the Republican governor likely won’t decide whether to call a special legislative session focused on abortion until the U.S. Supreme Court releases its official opinion on the issue. 

Ricketts has said Nebraska needs to be ready to outlaw abortion, and he strongly supported a bill this year that would have automatically done so if the high court gives states that option. 

The bill ultimately failed, however, after opponents blocked it with a filibuster, and it’s questionable whether a special session held this year at extra taxpayer expense would produce a different outcome.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651595960613.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A spokeswoman for Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says the Republican governor likely won’t decide whether to call a special legislative session focused on abortion until the U.S. Supreme Court releases its official opinion on the issue. Ricketts has said Nebraska needs to be ready to outlaw abortion, and he strongly supported a bill this year that would have automatically done so if the high court gives states that option. The bill ultimately failed, however, after opponents blocked it with a filibuster, and it’s questionable whether a special session held this year at extra taxpayer expense would produce a different outcome.

Nebraska likely to wait for final ruling in abortion case

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest Nebraska

My stomach is flat, the ‘L’ is just silent.

Dear weather, stop showing off. We get it, you’re hot.

Anyone visiting Crawford in the last three-plus decades has probably had a chuckle thanks to the Staab’s Drive-Inn sign. But the attention-getting quotes are just a preface to the real reason locals and visitors alike keep returning to the Northwest Nebraska institution.

“Right away we put in the broasters and the broasted chicken,” Renee Staab said of purchasing the diner along Highway 20 with her husband Roger. “We thought it would be a good addition to the area.”

The couple, originally from Iowa, brought broasted chicken to Northwest Nebraska from their native state. They also added curly fries, broasted potatoes and fresh, hand-made hamburger patties rather than the frozen pre-made variety. Later they added flurries and new combinations of ice cream sundaes, Renee said.

Constructed in the 1950s by John Wickstrom, Staab’s began as a Dairy Queen before eventually changing its name to Daisy Queen. In 1981, the Staabs purchased the business and within a few years changed the name again. Even before the name change, however, the couple revamped the menu, adding the broasted chicken for which Staab’s has become famous.

The Staabs have since retired, selling the business in 2018 to Jason and Taylor Hauser. The name remains in honor of the couple’s nearly 37 years of ownership and their mentorship to the Hausers, Jason said.

A certain symmetry led both the Staabs and the Hausers into the business. Roger was working for Gillette and familiar with the business through his route. It was suggested they purchase the Daisy Queen during one of Roger’s Fourth of July deliveries to the business. Decades later, Hauser was doing right-of-way work in the area for the state when someone suggested he buy the business.

When Hauser reached out to the Staabs, they encouraged him to work at the drive-in first, and he did so in 2016 and 2017 before finalizing the sale in 2018.

“We wanted to see it go into good hands,” Renee said. “We put a lot of blood, sweat and tears in it.”

For Hauser, it was the culmination of a life-long dream.

“Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to own my own business,” he said. “What Staab’s has offered me and my family has been huge.”

Staab’s is still known for its broasted chicken. Hauser credits the long-standing tradition of using fresh, never frozen chicken, the 48-hour marinade and the daily hand-breading process for the home-cooked taste.

“People travel quite a way for our broasted chicken,” Hauser said. “Like Roger always says, ‘You won’t get a better piece of chicken unless you’re a rooster.’”

The business gave Staabs the opportunity to raise their family in a small community, employed their children during high school and allowed them to meet a variety of people from across the country, some who remain close friends today, Renee said.

With a typical staff of eight, Staab’s continues to employ a lot of high school kids during the summer, and Hauser tries to mentor them in business practices and a general attitude of success. Working with them and interacting with the customers is by far the most rewarding aspect, he said. He enjoys meeting the travelers who come from all over the country and the world, but also is deeply appreciative of the support from local residents.

“The cornerstone of (Staab’s) is definitely the locals,” he said, offering thanks to both his employees and the community for making the business a success.

“We definitely wouldn’t be where we are without those two ingredients.”

The Hausers have continued many of the traditions built by the Staabs, including the sayings on the signs. Roger was meticulous the business’s appearance, and Renee said they started using the funny quotes to grab the attention of passers-by. It worked, and over the years, many people have snapped photos in front of the sign.

“Sometimes it just pops in your head,” Hauser said of what to put up on the sign. Other times they go searching the internet and tweak it to the business or the region.

The newest addition to Staab’s, however, was one added by the Hausers – Big Ern. The overgrown iron chicken was something the Staabs had always hoped to find, but it took two years into ownership by the Hausers before it became a reality. Taylor saw the chicken along the highway while they were driving through the Black Hills. The unpainted chicken was exactly what they had been searching for.

Their first trip to bring him home was a bust because he was frozen to the ground, but he eventually made it to Northwest Nebraska. Crawford’s Creighton and April Grant painted him in preparation for a chicken walk in May 2020, where they rolled him through Crawford’s streets to his final nesting place underneath the business sign.

“He’s heavy. He’s a pretty stout chicken,” Jason said.

Staab’s Drive-Inn is open March through November each year and hosts an annual Retro Night in June.

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651590943121.jpeg" alt="Taylor and Jason Hauser, here with their son Jackson, pose with Big Ern at Staab's Drive-Inn, which they purchased in 2018. Photo by Kerri Rempp/Discover Northwest Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>Taylor and Jason Hauser, here with their son Jackson, pose with Big Ern at Staab's Drive-Inn, which they purchased in 2018. Photo by Kerri Rempp/Discover Northwest Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>My stomach is flat, the ‘L’ is just silent.Dear weather, stop showing off. We get it, you’re hot.Anyone visiting Crawford in the last three-plus decades has probably had a chuckle thanks to the Staab’s Drive-Inn sign. But the attention-getting quotes are just a preface to the real reason locals and visitors alike keep returning to the Northwest Nebraska institution.“Right away we put in the broasters and the broasted chicken,” Renee Staab said of purchasing the diner along Highway 20 with her husband Roger. “We thought it would be a good addition to the area.”The couple, originally from Iowa, brought broasted chicken to Northwest Nebraska from their native state. They also added curly fries, broasted potatoes and fresh, hand-made hamburger patties rather than the frozen pre-made variety. Later they added flurries and new combinations of ice cream sundaes, Renee said.Constructed in the 1950s by John Wickstrom, Staab’s began as a Dairy Queen before eventually changing its name to Daisy Queen. In 1981, the Staabs purchased the business and within a few years changed the name again. Even before the name change, however, the couple revamped the menu, adding the broasted chicken for which Staab’s has become famous.The Staabs have since retired, selling the business in 2018 to Jason and Taylor Hauser. The name remains in honor of the couple’s nearly 37 years of ownership and their mentorship to the Hausers, Jason said.A certain symmetry led both the Staabs and the Hausers into the business. Roger was working for Gillette and familiar with the business through his route. It was suggested they purchase the Daisy Queen during one of Roger’s Fourth of July deliveries to the business. Decades later, Hauser was doing right-of-way work in the area for the state when someone suggested he buy the business.When Hauser reached out to the Staabs, they encouraged him to work at the drive-in first, and he did so in 2016 and 2017 before finalizing the sale in 2018.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651590998719.jpeg" alt="Clever sayings on the Staab's sign keep people entertained and draw them in to the local establishment. Photo by Kerri Rempp/Discover Northwest Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>Clever sayings on the Staab's sign keep people entertained and draw them in to the local establishment. Photo by Kerri Rempp/Discover Northwest Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>“We wanted to see it go into good hands,” Renee said. “We put a lot of blood, sweat and tears in it.”For Hauser, it was the culmination of a life-long dream.“Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to own my own business,” he said. “What Staab’s has offered me and my family has been huge.”Staab’s is still known for its broasted chicken. Hauser credits the long-standing tradition of using fresh, never frozen chicken, the 48-hour marinade and the daily hand-breading process for the home-cooked taste.“People travel quite a way for our broasted chicken,” Hauser said. “Like Roger always says, ‘You won’t get a better piece of chicken unless you’re a rooster.’”The business gave Staabs the opportunity to raise their family in a small community, employed their children during high school and allowed them to meet a variety of people from across the country, some who remain close friends today, Renee said.“We really did enjoy it,” she said.With a typical staff of eight, Staab’s continues to employ a lot of high school kids during the summer, and Hauser tries to mentor them in business practices and a general attitude of success. Working with them and interacting with the customers is by far the most rewarding aspect, he said. He enjoys meeting the travelers who come from all over the country and the world, but also is deeply appreciative of the support from local residents.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651591041395.jpeg" alt="Staab's Drive-Inn is an institution in Northwest Nebraska, serving up broasted chicken, burgers and ice cream. Photo by Kerri Rempp/Discover Northwest Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>Staab's Drive-Inn is an institution in Northwest Nebraska, serving up broasted chicken, burgers and ice cream. Photo by Kerri Rempp/Discover Northwest Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>“The cornerstone of (Staab’s) is definitely the locals,” he said, offering thanks to both his employees and the community for making the business a success.“We definitely wouldn’t be where we are without those two ingredients.”The Hausers have continued many of the traditions built by the Staabs, including the sayings on the signs. Roger was meticulous the business’s appearance, and Renee said they started using the funny quotes to grab the attention of passers-by. It worked, and over the years, many people have snapped photos in front of the sign.“Sometimes it just pops in your head,” Hauser said of what to put up on the sign. Other times they go searching the internet and tweak it to the business or the region.The newest addition to Staab’s, however, was one added by the Hausers – Big Ern. The overgrown iron chicken was something the Staabs had always hoped to find, but it took two years into ownership by the Hausers before it became a reality. Taylor saw the chicken along the highway while they were driving through the Black Hills. The unpainted chicken was exactly what they had been searching for.Their first trip to bring him home was a bust because he was frozen to the ground, but he eventually made it to Northwest Nebraska. Crawford’s Creighton and April Grant painted him in preparation for a chicken walk in May 2020, where they rolled him through Crawford’s streets to his final nesting place underneath the business sign.“He’s heavy. He’s a pretty stout chicken,” Jason said.Staab’s Drive-Inn is open March through November each year and hosts an annual Retro Night in June.

Beloved local Crawford drive-in thrives across decades

By&nbsp;Becky Herian, CCC Scholarship Chair

The Cattle Capital Cattlemen affiliate of Nebraska Cattlemen, who represents the beef industry in the Central Panhandle, annually awards scholarships to outstanding future agricultural leaders. The Scholarship Fund was established in 2004 and is endowed through the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation. Thanks to the foresight of CCC members, funds are available as set by Foundation rules. Additional funds were available thanks to a $1000. anonymous donation last year. The Committee generally awards as much as we have available. For anyone interested in giving to the Scholarship Fund, it is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, contact committee member Becky Herian.

These scholarships are awarded to students pursing higher and extended educational opportunities benefitting the beef industry. CCC thank the nine outstanding applicants who applied for the scholarship this year and wish them the best in their future education. We encourage them to apply for the 2023-2024 CCC Scholarship as well as the Nebraska Foundation scholarships that can be found at nebraskacattlemen.org

Cattle Capital Cattlemen President Jerry Underwood is pleased to announce three outstanding 2022 Alliance High School graduates as recipients of the 2022-23 Cattle Capital Cattlemen Foundation Scholarships. Wade Sanders, son of Tom and Teresa Sanders of rural Alliance received a scholarship in the amount of $1250.00. Wyatt Walker, son of Lee and Kim Walker of rural Alliance was the recipient of a $1000.00 and Braelyn Shrewsbury of Alliance was awarded a $750.00 scholarship.

Wade, awarded a $1250.00 scholarship, will attend Texas Tech University in Lubbock TX majoring in Animal Science, Ag Business and Meat Science. After earning his undergraduate degree, he plans to obtain a master’s degree in the areas mentioned above. Wade is passionate about the beef industry and its sustainability which he plans to make major contributions to. He wants to make a difference not only on the family ranch but also to the beef industry at large.

Wyatt, recipient of $1000.00 scholarship will attend Dickenson State University in Dickenson, North Dakota to obtain an associate degree in Agriculture Production. Areas he’ll study include ag business, ag sales and services, range management and animal science which will give him insights into almost every aspect of the family ranch of which he plans to return to and operate as the fifth generation to do so.

Braelyn, awarded $750.00 to further her education will attend Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, NE majoring in Veterinary Technology. She’s well on her way to accomplishing that goal because as a FFA member she has a supervised agricultural experience at Alliance Animal Clinic of which she plans to return to after obtaining her degree. Braelyn also has plans to continue working on her family ranch with hopes of building her own cattle herd.

By&nbsp;Becky Herian, CCC Scholarship ChairThe Cattle Capital Cattlemen affiliate of Nebraska Cattlemen, who represents the beef industry in the Central Panhandle, annually awards scholarships to outstanding future agricultural leaders. The Scholarship Fund was established in 2004 and is endowed through the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation. Thanks to the foresight of CCC members, funds are available as set by Foundation rules. Additional funds were available thanks to a $1000. anonymous donation last year. The Committee generally awards as much as we have available. For anyone interested in giving to the Scholarship Fund, it is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, contact committee member Becky Herian.These scholarships are awarded to students pursing higher and extended educational opportunities benefitting the beef industry. CCC thank the nine outstanding applicants who applied for the scholarship this year and wish them the best in their future education. We encourage them to apply for the 2023-2024 CCC Scholarship as well as the Nebraska Foundation scholarships that can be found at nebraskacattlemen.org<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651589858104.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cattle Capital Cattlemen President Jerry Underwood is pleased to announce three outstanding 2022 Alliance High School graduates as recipients of the 2022-23 Cattle Capital Cattlemen Foundation Scholarships. Wade Sanders, son of Tom and Teresa Sanders of rural Alliance received a scholarship in the amount of $1250.00. Wyatt Walker, son of Lee and Kim Walker of rural Alliance was the recipient of a $1000.00 and Braelyn Shrewsbury of Alliance was awarded a $750.00 scholarship.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651589786044.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wade, awarded a $1250.00 scholarship, will attend Texas Tech University in Lubbock TX majoring in Animal Science, Ag Business and Meat Science. After earning his undergraduate degree, he plans to obtain a master’s degree in the areas mentioned above. Wade is passionate about the beef industry and its sustainability which he plans to make major contributions to. He wants to make a difference not only on the family ranch but also to the beef industry at large.Wyatt, recipient of $1000.00 scholarship will attend Dickenson State University in Dickenson, North Dakota to obtain an associate degree in Agriculture Production. Areas he’ll study include ag business, ag sales and services, range management and animal science which will give him insights into almost every aspect of the family ranch of which he plans to return to and operate as the fifth generation to do so.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651589813986.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Braelyn, awarded $750.00 to further her education will attend Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, NE majoring in Veterinary Technology. She’s well on her way to accomplishing that goal because as a FFA member she has a supervised agricultural experience at Alliance Animal Clinic of which she plans to return to after obtaining her degree. Braelyn also has plans to continue working on her family ranch with hopes of building her own cattle herd.

Cattle Capital Cattlemen awards 3 Scholarships

By HEATHER JOHNSON Mid-Plains Community College

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College will award 339 blue and gold honor cords to area high school seniors to wear at their graduation ceremonies this spring.

The cords are used to recognize students who have taken the initiative to pursue college credit while still in high school. To earn one, a student must have successfully completed 12 or more credit hours through MPCC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651585787658.png" alt="Rudi Anderson, a senior at Ogallala High School, wears the Mid-Plains Community College honor cord she received during her school’s Academic Awards Night April 25. To earn an honor cord, students must have successfully completed 12 or more credit hours through MPCC." />
 <figcaption>Rudi Anderson, a senior at Ogallala High School, wears the Mid-Plains Community College honor cord she received during her school’s Academic Awards Night April 25. To earn an honor cord, students must have successfully completed 12 or more credit hours through MPCC.</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER JOHNSON Mid-Plains Community CollegeNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College will award 339 blue and gold honor cords to area high school seniors to wear at their graduation ceremonies this spring.The cords are used to recognize students who have taken the initiative to pursue college credit while still in high school. To earn one, a student must have successfully completed 12 or more credit hours through MPCC.“The high number of students taking 12 or more credit hours is a testament to how well area high schools and MPCC have partnered to provide opportunities for high school students,” said Paul Knopick, area director of Early Entry and Program Development. “It also shows how area families have seen the importance of dual credit and the benefits that it provides. These 300-plus students were able to experience higher education classes in a setting they are already familiar with – helping to alleviate any concerns they might have regarding their next steps after high school and putting them one step closer to a college degree.”The following students will receive honor cords this year. Those who choose to continue their education at MPCC will also be eligible for increased financial assistance in the form of scholarships.Anselmo-Merna High School&nbsp;– Sebastian YounesArnold High School&nbsp;– Faith Bierman, Carly GraceyArthur County High School&nbsp;– Bryce Hanna, Kinley Helmer, Hailey Jageler, Emma Ohm, Catherine Vasa, Mary WorthingBrady High School&nbsp;– Ava McGown, Triston StearnsBroken Bow High School&nbsp;– Keifer Anderson, Paul Batchelder, Keegan Baxter, Kylen Borders, Joscelyn Coleman, Emery Custer, Carsten Fox, Kennedy Garcia, Austin Harvey, Zackery Holloway, Riese Kahnk, Anna Lindstrom, Kenna McCaslin, Kaden McKean, Hannah Nichols, Brianna Quinn, Brody Ridder, Jonathan Schaaf, Chad Schmidt, Kya Scott, Kailyn Scott, Elissa Simmons, Rayelee Smith, Molly Staples, Daine Wardyn, Gerald Waterhouse, Cyrus Wells, Callie White, Ava Williams, Breanna WilsonCallaway High School&nbsp;– Lila Bloomer, Heidi Donegan, Sophia Doyle, Emalee Glendy, Bryant Leeper, Irelyn Rosfeld, Isabelle Stallbaumer, Mya WeverkaChase County High School&nbsp;– Shelby Baird, Ryan Bernhardt, Kendra Burke, Brittany Chavez, LaReina Colton, Chloe Dillan, Jordan Jablonski, Jesse Krausnick, Caelyn Long, Jerzee Milner, Ella O’Neil, Morgan Peterson, Kendall Prior, Nickolas Rau, Jolee Schoenholz, Lucy Spady, Markenna Terryberry, Brice Vitosh, Matalie Wallin, Remington Yaw, Emmitt ZuegeCozad High School –&nbsp;Karissa JacksonCreek Valley High School&nbsp;– Rhonda Liddick, Grace TimmDundy County-Stratton High School&nbsp;– Taylor Bailey, Therran Bernard, Lillian WieseHershey High School&nbsp;– Jonathan Burklund, Landon Hart, Kate Vaughn, Shayda VaughnHitchcock County&nbsp;– Riley Bortner, Katie Hrnchir, Braydn Hutto, Kylee McLain, Aimee Merrill, Lindsey RippenMaxwell High School –&nbsp;Jagger Baird, Joree Cumming, Myah Essman, Harley Kuenning, Ellery SimpsonMcCook Senior High School&nbsp;– Amalia Almanza, Aiden Barger, Trenton Brooks, Grace Cappel, Brenna Carner, Andres Cushman Cabrera, Gwyneth Davis, Emma Dutton, Logan&nbsp; Foster, Rocco Giacalone, Tucker Gillespie, Ethan Graff, Joslyn Hammond, Xander Hazen, Isaac Hinze, Adam Kain, Sierra Kotschwar, Chesney Latta, Parker O'Toole, Carley Peters, Matthew Pochop, Addison Randel, Nathan Renner, Kailynn Rodewald, Karragan Shaw, Jonas Sommerville, Jenicca&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Spencer, Katie Taylor, Ainsley Taylor, Alexis Tucker, Addyson Uerling, Jarett Walter, Kaedin&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Waugh, Maxwell WeimerMullen High School&nbsp;– Callie Coble, Alli Loughran, Hailey Phipps, Sean SimonsonNorth Platte High School&nbsp;– Kirstyn Ablard, Beckett Allen, Paige Anthony, Treyce Barker, Sydney Barner, Evelyn Blaesi, Isabella Bonomo, Jaylee Bonta, Katelyn Bowers, Memphis Brown, Jack Bunger, Graesyn Buttler, Drew Carlson, Mason Carter, Jerome Caudillo, Courtney Coates, Emmalee Connell, Andrew Connelly, Nicolas Davis, Cade Davis, Emma Dewey, Olivia Eckel, Audrey Eisenrich, Lauren Ellett, Kaitlyn Evans, Elleigh Fisher, Emma Flanders, Adam Freeze, Brookelyn Griffiths, Reagan Hagen, Isabella Hardy, Madison Hatch, Sedina Hayes, Jaycee Hipwell, Alexis Hoatson, Joshua Hodges, Jonathan Hodges, Olivia Huff, Gabriel Hulquist Tate Janas, Ryan Kaminski, Josiah Kautz, Jonathon Keneipp, Andrew Kittle, Donte Koif, Torie Laubenstein, Dylan LaVante, Kaitlyn Lee, Karisa Lower, Kohltyn Majer, Breah Matuszczak, Dawson McGahan, Minnie McKenney, Isaac Mercer, Macy Nolda, Katherine O’Dell, MacGregor O’Brien, Jack Oettinger, Juliana Ortiz, Trey Pierson, Olivia Prieto, Alaina Pucylowski, Thomas Ramsey, Angela Rhoades, Kendal Roberson, Jenessa Rodriguez, Ainsley Schroder, Kortney Shannon, Christian Short, Devlin Simon, Hannah Sims, Kaymbree Smith, Traiton Snyder, Andrew Solon, Connor&nbsp; Songster, Cali Soper, Joseph Stone, Sydnee Sudbeck, Damita Torrez, Marcus Trotta, Carson Uehling, Joseph Vak, Roy Wagner, Jada-Mae Wheeler, Angelina Whitaker, Chloe Wiegand, Emily Winkler, Jayli ZirnigNorth Platte St. Pat’s&nbsp;- Teya Carlini, Macie Ebmeier, Jayla&nbsp; Fleck, Ashton Guo, Connor Hasenauer, Jack Heiss, Jenna Kimberling, Jordan Lech, Caleb Munson, Elise O’Neill, Kate Roberg, Justin Schroll, Kate Stienike, Kathryn WrennOgallala High School&nbsp;– Rudi Anderson, Tegan Brown, Gabriella Caskey, Alexandra Coffman, Michael DeVries, Daniel Dickinson, Max Doherty, Jessica Folchert, Derek Fosbinder, Lauren Franklin, Ashley Glazebrook, Trevor Godina, Aydan Halligan, Bailey Hemphill, Jillian Kelly, Makayla Kirchner, Lexi Montgomery, Sydney Ribera, Brooklyne Schmer, Keara Sutherland, Gracen Tuttle, Grace VanBorkumParkview Christian School&nbsp;– Greta BologniniPaxton High School&nbsp;– Sierra Hicks, Caden Holm, Allyson Jay, Damin Luedke, Emma VasquezPerkins County High School&nbsp;– Autumn Anderson, Brook Barnes, Meghan Bishop, Kayton Brueggeman, Hallie Fisher, Madelyn Ingold, Juels Lyon, Austin Meyer, Jordan Mireles, Samantha Patrick, Kayla Reichenberg, Emmerald Sims, Kylie TuckerSandhills High School&nbsp;– Lindsay Cody, Miriam Ganoung, Courtney Swisher, Reece ZutavernSargent High School&nbsp;– Kade Bottorf, Shasta Handley, Nolan Osborn, Vivian SlagleSelinsgrove Area High School&nbsp;– Spencer BaxterSouthwest High School&nbsp;– Nathan Lytle, Isabella Townsend, Kassidy WilcoxStapleton Public School&nbsp;– Megan Amos, Chloe Bassett, Samantha Carlson, Keali Florea, Ryan Shepherd, Anastasia TurnerSutherland High School&nbsp;– Matthew Bruns, Mekenna Fisher, Ashtyn Gunderson, Paige Hoelting, Molly Kammerer, Serena Martinez, Olivia Miller, Maverick Naughtin, Jon Peterka, Taigen Ruff, Jackson Sinsel, Faith Stewart, Bailey ZonaThedford High School&nbsp;– Trae Hickman, Cylee Jameson, Summar Schaefer, Seth ScrantonValentine High School&nbsp;– Fayth From, Gunnar Battershaw, Lindsey Boes, Benjamin Butcher, Sarah Butler, Renee Fisbeck, Conner Fowler, Steven Fullerton, Matthew Gibson, Hayes Hammond, Sophia Jordan, Cameron Jordan, Grace Kelber, Dakota Krogman, Tessa Krolikowski, MaKenzie Long, Becca McGinley, Cody Miller, Courtny Morgan, Holden Mundorf, Madelyn Pilakowski, Emma Richards, Mya Shelbourn, Sean Springer, Kaylee Wenig, Nicole WilliamsWallace High School&nbsp;– Denay Pelster, Ainsley StrawderWauneta-Palisade High School&nbsp;– Robert Hanna, Ruel Malcolm, Alexa Sandman, Grant WalkerMore information about MPCC’s&nbsp;Early Entry&nbsp;program is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/admissions/early-entry-high-school-students.php" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/admissions/early-entry-high-school-students.php</a>.<figure>
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 </figure>Do you know of a good story of a person, business, or organization working to make Greater Nebraska better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero?Share your stories on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whats-the-Good-Word-Greater-Nebraska-100942099193470">"What's the Good Word Greater Nebraska" Facebook</a> page. You can also email your ideas to <a href="http://scott.carlson@eagleradio.net/">scott.carlson@eagleradio.net</a>.Share the positivity with North Platte Post!Eagle Communications reserves all rights on the selection of stories submitted.<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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