The coronavirus pandemic has been a long journey, but through it all Nebraskans have pulled together to keep people healthy.&nbsp; On March 6, 2020, Nebraska reported its first positive case of the coronavirus.&nbsp; Over the last 15 months, Nebraskans have made many sacrifices.&nbsp; We have spent time apart from each other, figured out how to manage schools and businesses, and worked hard to slow the spread of the virus to protect our hospitals.&nbsp;

As our state grappled with the new virus, Nebraskans stepped up and did the right thing.&nbsp; Schools, churches, and businesses adjusted their operations to slow the spread.&nbsp; Families prioritized the health of loved ones at greater risk from the virus.&nbsp; In communities large and small, Nebraskans took care of their neighbors.&nbsp;

These actions helped us successfully preserve our hospital capacity throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; Nebraskans have had access to hospital beds, ICU beds, or ventilators whenever they needed care.&nbsp; We’re now down to 74 coronavirus hospitalizations in Nebraska, which represents less than 2% of our hospital capacity.&nbsp; Coronavirus hospitalizations are at their lowest point since we began tracking them statewide over a year ago in April 2020.&nbsp; More than 915,000 Nebraskans have now received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; To date, we’ve administered over 1.65 million vaccine doses.

As vaccinations rise and hospitalizations fall, Nebraska is returning to normalcy.&nbsp; On Monday, I held my last coronavirus briefing, and we ended all remaining Directed Health Measures—including quarantine requirements.&nbsp; I also signed an executive order to rescind many of the emergency executive orders that I had issued during the pandemic.&nbsp; At the State, we’re discontinuing our temporary remote work arrangements and getting all of our State teammates back into the office.&nbsp; I am urging all organizations, public and private, to drop pandemic restrictions, including mask requirements.

Nebraska’s approach to the pandemic has helped our state achieve great public health and economic outcomes.&nbsp; The Kaiser Family Foundation finds that Nebraska has one of the lowest coronavirus fatality rates in the nation.&nbsp; Nebraska had the sixth-highest rate of kids in schools during the 2020-2021 academic year.&nbsp; And our state has achieved the lowest unemployment rate in the United States.&nbsp; We’ve been able to keep people healthy while also helping keep people working and our kids in school along the way.

As life returns to normal, it’s time to reconnect with one another to make sure we don’t lose the things that make Nebraska great.&nbsp; For generations, our strength as a state has come from Nebraskans who are involved in their churches, communities, and schools.&nbsp; Let’s reengage with the people, places, and activities that were disrupted by the coronavirus as we emerge from the pandemic. &nbsp;Take the time to consider how you can reconnect with the people you love and the organizations you’ve served over the years.&nbsp; Nebraska Impact has assembled a list of nearly 150 organizations in search of volunteers at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nevolunteers.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669810590%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=dc1X%2FgDD8mk5EBPM%2BeO%2FGJzXiGaMmv7r6HjZQR43WP8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nevolunteers.com</a>.&nbsp; I invite you to view the available opportunities and find a way to contribute your time and talents. &nbsp;Now is also a great opportunity to visit loved ones at nursing homes and assisted-living communities as visitation policies become less restrictive.

As life returns to normal, there are lots of exciting places to explore and events to visit this summer in Nebraska. &nbsp;The College World Series will be back at 100% capacity, and Omaha will also welcome fans to the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials in June.&nbsp; The Big Rodeo in Burwell is celebrating its 100th&nbsp;anniversary July 28th-31st, and Lincoln is hosting the Nebraska High School Finals Rodeo from July 18th-24th.&nbsp; Festivals, fairs, and fireworks—such as Seward’s Fourth of July celebration—will be back in full swing.&nbsp; Across the state, businesses have resumed normal operations, and they’re welcoming back customers.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to support our restaurants, parks, farmer’s markets, museums, and bed and breakfasts this summer.&nbsp;

The Nebraska Tourism Commission is once again sponsoring its popular Nebraska Passport Program. &nbsp;It kicked off on May 1st&nbsp;and runs through the end of September.&nbsp; Last year 1,188 people stamped their passport at all 70 stops! &nbsp;I invite you to join in the fun and to submit your stamped passport to win prizes.&nbsp; You can order a passport and learn more about this year’s participating locations at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskapassport.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669810590%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=OQI9c2SSAGobKBBZmGC79cyzEiaeQFJvew6DN7BnahU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraskapassport.com</a>.&nbsp; As you travel the state, you can dine on the best Nebraska beef through the Good Life Great Steaks Beef Passport Program.&nbsp; To get a passport and view a list of restaurants taking part in the program, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgoodlifegreatsteaks.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669820547%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=YmNaFUIQrFI7kXIqZgewX7DvJE6f%2B7Ha2CpNB%2FbzRGA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">goodlifegreatsteaks.org</a>.&nbsp;

Nebraska’s people make our state the best place in the world to live, work, and raise a family.&nbsp; Let’s reconnect with one another in the coming weeks to celebrate the Good Life as we put the pandemic behind us. &nbsp;As you plan your summer adventures, check out places to go and things to do in the Cornhusker State at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvisitnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669820547%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=9hi8r3YZu6O53MzVsRG5Owir1u6pSnarNxqWV7S%2FgVk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">visitnebraska.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669830507%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=T29WvGtULQX3QkG6orib6BUiYcQoHoyOWSnhUsCT0qI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org</a>.&nbsp; If you have any questions about traveling in Nebraska, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

<figure>
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 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsThe coronavirus pandemic has been a long journey, but through it all Nebraskans have pulled together to keep people healthy.&nbsp; On March 6, 2020, Nebraska reported its first positive case of the coronavirus.&nbsp; Over the last 15 months, Nebraskans have made many sacrifices.&nbsp; We have spent time apart from each other, figured out how to manage schools and businesses, and worked hard to slow the spread of the virus to protect our hospitals.&nbsp;As our state grappled with the new virus, Nebraskans stepped up and did the right thing.&nbsp; Schools, churches, and businesses adjusted their operations to slow the spread.&nbsp; Families prioritized the health of loved ones at greater risk from the virus.&nbsp; In communities large and small, Nebraskans took care of their neighbors.&nbsp;These actions helped us successfully preserve our hospital capacity throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; Nebraskans have had access to hospital beds, ICU beds, or ventilators whenever they needed care.&nbsp; We’re now down to 74 coronavirus hospitalizations in Nebraska, which represents less than 2% of our hospital capacity.&nbsp; Coronavirus hospitalizations are at their lowest point since we began tracking them statewide over a year ago in April 2020.&nbsp; More than 915,000 Nebraskans have now received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; To date, we’ve administered over 1.65 million vaccine doses.As vaccinations rise and hospitalizations fall, Nebraska is returning to normalcy.&nbsp; On Monday, I held my last coronavirus briefing, and we ended all remaining Directed Health Measures—including quarantine requirements.&nbsp; I also signed an executive order to rescind many of the emergency executive orders that I had issued during the pandemic.&nbsp; At the State, we’re discontinuing our temporary remote work arrangements and getting all of our State teammates back into the office.&nbsp; I am urging all organizations, public and private, to drop pandemic restrictions, including mask requirements.Nebraska’s approach to the pandemic has helped our state achieve great public health and economic outcomes.&nbsp; The Kaiser Family Foundation finds that Nebraska has one of the lowest coronavirus fatality rates in the nation.&nbsp; Nebraska had the sixth-highest rate of kids in schools during the 2020-2021 academic year.&nbsp; And our state has achieved the lowest unemployment rate in the United States.&nbsp; We’ve been able to keep people healthy while also helping keep people working and our kids in school along the way.As life returns to normal, it’s time to reconnect with one another to make sure we don’t lose the things that make Nebraska great.&nbsp; For generations, our strength as a state has come from Nebraskans who are involved in their churches, communities, and schools.&nbsp; Let’s reengage with the people, places, and activities that were disrupted by the coronavirus as we emerge from the pandemic. &nbsp;Take the time to consider how you can reconnect with the people you love and the organizations you’ve served over the years.&nbsp; Nebraska Impact has assembled a list of nearly 150 organizations in search of volunteers at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nevolunteers.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669810590%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=dc1X%2FgDD8mk5EBPM%2BeO%2FGJzXiGaMmv7r6HjZQR43WP8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nevolunteers.com</a>.&nbsp; I invite you to view the available opportunities and find a way to contribute your time and talents. &nbsp;Now is also a great opportunity to visit loved ones at nursing homes and assisted-living communities as visitation policies become less restrictive.As life returns to normal, there are lots of exciting places to explore and events to visit this summer in Nebraska. &nbsp;The College World Series will be back at 100% capacity, and Omaha will also welcome fans to the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials in June.&nbsp; The Big Rodeo in Burwell is celebrating its 100th&nbsp;anniversary July 28th-31st, and Lincoln is hosting the Nebraska High School Finals Rodeo from July 18th-24th.&nbsp; Festivals, fairs, and fireworks—such as Seward’s Fourth of July celebration—will be back in full swing.&nbsp; Across the state, businesses have resumed normal operations, and they’re welcoming back customers.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to support our restaurants, parks, farmer’s markets, museums, and bed and breakfasts this summer.&nbsp;The Nebraska Tourism Commission is once again sponsoring its popular Nebraska Passport Program. &nbsp;It kicked off on May 1st&nbsp;and runs through the end of September.&nbsp; Last year 1,188 people stamped their passport at all 70 stops! &nbsp;I invite you to join in the fun and to submit your stamped passport to win prizes.&nbsp; You can order a passport and learn more about this year’s participating locations at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskapassport.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669810590%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=OQI9c2SSAGobKBBZmGC79cyzEiaeQFJvew6DN7BnahU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraskapassport.com</a>.&nbsp; As you travel the state, you can dine on the best Nebraska beef through the Good Life Great Steaks Beef Passport Program.&nbsp; To get a passport and view a list of restaurants taking part in the program, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgoodlifegreatsteaks.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669820547%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=YmNaFUIQrFI7kXIqZgewX7DvJE6f%2B7Ha2CpNB%2FbzRGA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">goodlifegreatsteaks.org</a>.&nbsp;Nebraska’s people make our state the best place in the world to live, work, and raise a family.&nbsp; Let’s reconnect with one another in the coming weeks to celebrate the Good Life as we put the pandemic behind us. &nbsp;As you plan your summer adventures, check out places to go and things to do in the Cornhusker State at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvisitnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669820547%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=9hi8r3YZu6O53MzVsRG5Owir1u6pSnarNxqWV7S%2FgVk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">visitnebraska.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb33d09f4a4884671aad508d91fb9b1dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637575704669830507%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=T29WvGtULQX3QkG6orib6BUiYcQoHoyOWSnhUsCT0qI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org</a>.&nbsp; If you have any questions about traveling in Nebraska, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

Ricketts: Reconnecting Nebraska

News Release Mid-Plains Community College

A total of 131 students qualified for the President’s List during the 2021 spring semester at Mid-Plains Community College.

To make the list, each student had to complete 12 or more applicable credit hours in college-level courses and maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.9 or greater on a 4.0 scale. The qualifiers include:

Big Springs - Alicia Brown, Matthew McClung

Gothenburg - Mark Boson, Tarina Beenblossom

Hershey - Raychel Banks, Benjamin Fischer

Maxwell - Levi DeStefano, Abigail Jurjens, Janie Sommer

McCook - Deanne Crocker, Terasa Emmons, Colton Molcyk, Audrey Paisley, Kaylie Puckett, Hope Wade

North Platte - Beckett Allen, Alexa Beltran, Katelyn Bowers, Lauren Brott, Graesyn Buttler, Montannia Courtney, Cade Davis, Nicolas Davis, Brittney Douglass, Ashley Dye, Elizabeth Empfield, Georgia Flanders, Steven Garcia, Isaac Goff, Kali Griesfeller, Kaden Hanner, Madison Heinzen, Rainah Holm, Caleb Horne, Stephanie Johnson, McKynzie Kelsey, Jonathon Keneipp, Jenny Lim, Hallie Malsbury, Breah Matuszczak, Maxwell McIntosh, Duane Miller, Gage Miller, Kody Miller, Michael Mitchell, Scott Mustion, John Patterson, Jeffrey Pearson, Ignacio Perez, Thomas Ramsey, Michael Richey, Jori Rogers, Kilee Sauer, Emmalee Schanou, Robert Siegmann, Julie Slattery, Cooper Sponie, Samuel Stacy, Jason Sullivan, Jason Taylor, Roy Wagner, Daniel Wardyn, Riley Wiese, Dylan Woody

Ogallala - Katelyn Keeten, Ethan LeGrande

Trenton - Remington Hodges, Kyleigh Scott

Wauneta - Alejandra Almanza, Haylee Sandman

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 </figure>News Release Mid-Plains Community CollegeA total of 131 students qualified for the President’s List during the 2021 spring semester at Mid-Plains Community College.To make the list, each student had to complete 12 or more applicable credit hours in college-level courses and maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.9 or greater on a 4.0 scale. The qualifiers include:NebraskaArapahoe - Skyler WebsterBenkelman - Christina CollierBig Springs - Alicia Brown, Matthew McClungBrady - Kate Axthelm, Teagan RossmanBrule - Josiah SpencerCody - Sara FordCozad - Tatiana OrozcoElwood - Carina AtterberryGothenburg - Mark Boson, Tarina BeenblossomGrand Island - Grant KohlesHayes Center - Avery JohnsonHershey - Raychel Banks, Benjamin FischerHoldrege - Trinity RaburnHumphrey - Allie SchneiderKearney - Molly WalkerKeystone - Debra ClevelandLexington - Selegna HarveyMaxwell - Levi DeStefano, Abigail Jurjens, Janie SommerMcCook - Deanne Crocker, Terasa Emmons, Colton Molcyk, Audrey Paisley, Kaylie Puckett, Hope WadeMitchell - Kenneth HartlineMullen - Jade Lovitt, Courtney RiceNorth Platte - Beckett Allen, Alexa Beltran, Katelyn Bowers, Lauren Brott, Graesyn Buttler, Montannia Courtney, Cade Davis, Nicolas Davis, Brittney Douglass, Ashley Dye, Elizabeth Empfield, Georgia Flanders, Steven Garcia, Isaac Goff, Kali Griesfeller, Kaden Hanner, Madison Heinzen, Rainah Holm, Caleb Horne, Stephanie Johnson, McKynzie Kelsey, Jonathon Keneipp, Jenny Lim, Hallie Malsbury, Breah Matuszczak, Maxwell McIntosh, Duane Miller, Gage Miller, Kody Miller, Michael Mitchell, Scott Mustion, John Patterson, Jeffrey Pearson, Ignacio Perez, Thomas Ramsey, Michael Richey, Jori Rogers, Kilee Sauer, Emmalee Schanou, Robert Siegmann, Julie Slattery, Cooper Sponie, Samuel Stacy, Jason Sullivan, Jason Taylor, Roy Wagner, Daniel Wardyn, Riley Wiese, Dylan WoodyOgallala - Katelyn Keeten, Ethan LeGrandeOverton - Morgan OlmsteadPalisade - Lilith MinerScottsbluff - Rianda BoundsSidney - Janay Brauer, Sarah WamsleyStratton - Elianna SandbergSutherland - Erica HoppingThedford - Connor BurnsTrenton - Remington Hodges, Kyleigh ScottTryon - Faith CorrellValentine - Sheyenne HammondWakefield - Jacob DorceyWauneta - Alejandra Almanza, Haylee SandmanWellfleet - John BlackmonCaliforniaRedlands - Alex NelsonRoseville - Ryan FinnertyColoradoByers - Ashland BacaJulesburg - Zachary KlineMilliken - Morganne BrownPaoli - Emily TrejoSnyder - Amber WoleverWeldona - Ruby ValleYuma - Tania MoralesIowaMarion - Rae VanMilliganWest Branch - Taylor TheinMinnesotaUlen - Brooklyn SpencerOklahomaOklahoma City - Destiny DavisOregonBeaverton - Hunter GillisSouth DakotaElkton - Kayla EngwichtTexasFort Worth - Kyleigh SullivanMesquite - Kayla Pope, Jalyn ReagansUtahRichfield - Kristen Mogan, Jordyn MoonSpanish Fork - Genevieve HopkinsonUkraineKyiv - Slavomyr MarchenkoSpainSant Joan Despi - Maite Lara GarciaSerbiaUzice - Martin PoznanovicPolandWloclawek - Przemyslaw ZygmunciakItalyCondove - Alice MidiriGermanyKoblenz - Deniz SariDominican RepublicSanto Domingo - Persio Quezada VilorioCanadaVictoria, British Columbia - Sophia KissBosnia and HerzegovinaSarajevo - Timur KrupalijaBoliviaCochabamba - Maria Canedo

Mid-Plains Community College announces spring President’s List

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

Severe thunderstorms are likely this afternoon across the area. Very large hail, damaging winds and a few tornadoes are possible with the strongest storms.

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteSevere thunderstorms are likely this afternoon across the area. Very large hail, damaging winds and a few tornadoes are possible with the strongest storms.<figure>
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Severe weather likely for North Platte area Wednesday

City of North Platte Planning Commission meeting from City Hall on May 25, 2021.

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 </figure>City of North Platte Planning Commission meeting from City Hall on May 25, 2021.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IQs84TpYk08" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

WATCH North Platte Planning Commission Meeting (May 25, 2021)

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Military retirees who stay in Nebraska after their service ends won’t have to pay state taxes on their retirement income under a new state law. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts signed into law a full tax exemption that will go into effect in 2022. 

Ricketts approved it outside the governor’s residence, surrounded by state lawmakers and advocates for veterans. 

The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Tom Brewer, of Gordon, says the measure will help Nebraska keep its military retirees, who are often highly educated and have security clearances that make them attractive to military contractors.

<figure>
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 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Military retirees who stay in Nebraska after their service ends won’t have to pay state taxes on their retirement income under a new state law. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed into law a full tax exemption that will go into effect in 2022. Ricketts approved it outside the governor’s residence, surrounded by state lawmakers and advocates for veterans. The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Tom Brewer, of Gordon, says the measure will help Nebraska keep its military retirees, who are often highly educated and have security clearances that make them attractive to military contractors.

Nebraska to offer full tax exemption to military retirees

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is urging Nebraska lawmakers to uphold his veto of a bill that would let more residents collect food-assistance benefits, arguing that it would slow the state’s recovery from the pandemic. 

The Republican governor says in his veto letter that the measure would create a disincentive for recipients to seek better-paying jobs at a time when many businesses are desperate for workers. 

The veto issued Monday drew swift condemnation from advocates for the poor, who argue that many recipients are working families with children who are still struggling because of the pandemic. They also point out that the expansion would be paid with existing money and have no impact on the state budget.

<figure>
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 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is urging Nebraska lawmakers to uphold his veto of a bill that would let more residents collect food-assistance benefits, arguing that it would slow the state’s recovery from the pandemic. The Republican governor says in his veto letter that the measure would create a disincentive for recipients to seek better-paying jobs at a time when many businesses are desperate for workers. The veto issued Monday drew swift condemnation from advocates for the poor, who argue that many recipients are working families with children who are still struggling because of the pandemic. They also point out that the expansion would be paid with existing money and have no impact on the state budget.

Ricketts urges lawmakers to uphold SNAP expansion veto

SCOTTSBLUFF ― As a continued commitment to providing quality emergency medical needs for Garden County and the surrounding area, Regional West Garden County is pleased to announce plans for the acquisition of two new ambulances.

Within the partnership between Regional West Garden County and Regional West Medical Center, Regional West Garden County purchased both ambulances, while Regional West Medical Center holds and maintains the ambulance licenses and runs the EMS (Emergency Medical Service) system.

“Providing a strong, efficient Emergency Medical Service system is a complex endeavor,” said Randy Meininger, Regional West EMS manager. “It is a pleasure to work in a system that recognizes the importance of the strong partnership that exists between Regional West Garden County and Regional West Medical Center. Providing exceptional healthcare and service to our patients is our highest priority.”

The first ambulance to be put into service is a Chevy G4500 Type III, which is a traditional ‘box’ ambulance configuration. It will be used primarily in the 911 system. Meininger said that current plans are to have it operational by early summer.

The second ambulance is a Dodge Promaster Type II Crossover, a van-based ambulance that will primarily be used for inter facility transports. When needed, it can be used for 911 calls. Meininger said it should be in service this fall.

Both ambulances will meet the newest safety standards and feature new hydraulic cots to assist our ambulance crews with lifting.&nbsp;

“Having reliable, up-to-date ambulances in Garden County is critical to providing highly responsive and high quality service,” said Regional West Health Services President and CEO John Mentgen, FACHE. “The new ambulances will allow Regional West Garden County to continue providing reliable emergency services for many years to come.”

Regional West Garden County, Oshkosh, Neb., is a nonprofit health care organization consisting of a 10-bed Critical Access Hospital, a 40-bed nursing home, a rural health clinic, and a specialty clinic. An affiliate of Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., Regional West Garden County provides quality health care services to residents of Garden County, Neb., and surrounding communities.

SCOTTSBLUFF ― As a continued commitment to providing quality emergency medical needs for Garden County and the surrounding area, Regional West Garden County is pleased to announce plans for the acquisition of two new ambulances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621901638561.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Within the partnership between Regional West Garden County and Regional West Medical Center, Regional West Garden County purchased both ambulances, while Regional West Medical Center holds and maintains the ambulance licenses and runs the EMS (Emergency Medical Service) system.“Providing a strong, efficient Emergency Medical Service system is a complex endeavor,” said Randy Meininger, Regional West EMS manager. “It is a pleasure to work in a system that recognizes the importance of the strong partnership that exists between Regional West Garden County and Regional West Medical Center. Providing exceptional healthcare and service to our patients is our highest priority.”The first ambulance to be put into service is a Chevy G4500 Type III, which is a traditional ‘box’ ambulance configuration. It will be used primarily in the 911 system. Meininger said that current plans are to have it operational by early summer.The second ambulance is a Dodge Promaster Type II Crossover, a van-based ambulance that will primarily be used for inter facility transports. When needed, it can be used for 911 calls. Meininger said it should be in service this fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621901672466.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Both ambulances will meet the newest safety standards and feature new hydraulic cots to assist our ambulance crews with lifting.&nbsp;“Having reliable, up-to-date ambulances in Garden County is critical to providing highly responsive and high quality service,” said Regional West Health Services President and CEO John Mentgen, FACHE. “The new ambulances will allow Regional West Garden County to continue providing reliable emergency services for many years to come.”Regional West Garden County, Oshkosh, Neb., is a nonprofit health care organization consisting of a 10-bed Critical Access Hospital, a 40-bed nursing home, a rural health clinic, and a specialty clinic. An affiliate of Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., Regional West Garden County provides quality health care services to residents of Garden County, Neb., and surrounding communities.

Regional West Garden County to debut 2 new ambulances

Lincoln — Attorney General Doug Peterson is joining a coalition of 47 Attorneys General in urging congressional leaders to support the Fraud and Scam Reduction Act. 

The act, comprised of the Stop Senior Scam Act and Seniors Fraud Prevention Act of 2021, will assist stakeholders in training employees to recognize the warning signs of elder fraud and to prevent irreversible damage to elderly victims.&nbsp;

The act, H.R. 1215, is bipartisan legislation that will provide innovative ways to combat the financial exploitation of senior citizens. The legislation will establish the Senior Scams Prevention Advisory Group that is accountable to the Federal Trade Commission. The group will collect data generated by stakeholders such as retailers, financial services, and wire-transfer companies to help educate employees on how to identify and prevent scams that target seniors. The group will develop training and educational materials for those employees best suited to identify the warning signs of elder fraud.&nbsp;

The act also establishes the Office for the Prevention of Fraud Targeting Seniors—housed in the Bureau of Consumer Protection of the FTC. The Office will complement the efforts of the Senior Scams Prevention Advisory Group by:&nbsp;

The FTC will also work with the U.S. Attorney General’s Office to log and track complaints from victims and relay the information to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;

Lincoln — Attorney General Doug Peterson is joining a coalition of 47 Attorneys General in urging congressional leaders to support the Fraud and Scam Reduction Act. The act, comprised of the Stop Senior Scam Act and Seniors Fraud Prevention Act of 2021, will assist stakeholders in training employees to recognize the warning signs of elder fraud and to prevent irreversible damage to elderly victims.&nbsp;The act, H.R. 1215, is bipartisan legislation that will provide innovative ways to combat the financial exploitation of senior citizens. The legislation will establish the Senior Scams Prevention Advisory Group that is accountable to the Federal Trade Commission. The group will collect data generated by stakeholders such as retailers, financial services, and wire-transfer companies to help educate employees on how to identify and prevent scams that target seniors. The group will develop training and educational materials for those employees best suited to identify the warning signs of elder fraud.&nbsp;The act also establishes the Office for the Prevention of Fraud Targeting Seniors—housed in the Bureau of Consumer Protection of the FTC. The Office will complement the efforts of the Senior Scams Prevention Advisory Group by:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Monitoring emerging scams that target seniors through the internet, mail, robocalls, telemarketing, and television;</li><li>Disseminating information on common fraud schemes; and</li><li>Sharing information on how to report suspected senior fraud scams to a national fraud hotline and the FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The FTC will also work with the U.S. Attorney General’s Office to log and track complaints from victims and relay the information to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;

AG Peterson urges congressional support for fraud and scam reduction act

Mid-Plains Community College has a new rodeo team coach.

Wyatt Clark, of McCook, has been hired to lead the timed events, joining roughstock coach Aukai Kaai. Clark takes over the role of former MPCC rodeo team coach Garrett Nokes who passed away in February.

“I’m excited for the opportunity,” Clark said. “It’s a big gap to fill, but I’m going to do my best for the college, the kids and the community to keep the winning traditions going forward.”

Those at the college are looking forward to having Clark on board as well.

“We have been blessed with amazing coaches, athletes and community support for the MPCC Rodeo Team,” said Mike Steele, MPCC area vice president of administrative services. “The accomplishments of the team these past seven years have set a standard and an expectation that Aukai and Wyatt are ready to continue and build on to take us to the next level. We are glad to have another talented Southwest Nebraska cowboy join our team to help mold and mentor the next generation of rodeo champions and leaders.”

Originally from Wellfleet, Clark has spent more than 20 years competing in the rodeo arena. The sport, itself, has been part of his life for as long as he can remember - some might say it’s in his blood.

“Rodeo has paved a course in my family’s lives since birth,” Clark said. “It’s helped us develop our careers and compete at the professional level, and has helped me, specifically, go on to earn three degrees, including a master’s. It allowed me to build a network of good friends across the country, helped develop me as an athlete and gave me drive, purpose and the ambition to take on any challenge.”

His family’s rodeo tradition began with his grandfather, Dell Clark, a calf roper, team roper and bareback rider at the state level.

It continued with Wyatt’s father, J.R., who competed at the high school, college and professional levels and secured the reserve National High School Rodeo Association all-around title. J.R. was also a National Little Britches Rodeo World Champion all-around cowboy in the ’70s.

J.R.’s wife, Julie, was a barrel racer at the high school level, and together, she and J.R. passed their love of rodeo onto their children: Wyatt, Jaden, and Madison.

Like his father before him, Wyatt went on to become student president of the NHSRA and Jaden served as vice president.

Wyatt competed in calf roping, team roping and bareback riding in high school – earning the state championship in bareback riding as well as a National Little Britches Rodeo All-Around Cowboy title.

After high school, in 2009, Wyatt headed to Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, Wyo. where his uncle, Jake Clark, is the rodeo team coach. It was there that Wyatt added saddle bronc riding to his list of events.

He qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in bareback riding in 2010 as a freshman then was temporarily sidelined because of a shoulder injury.

After three years at EWC, Wyatt transferred to the University of Wyoming, in Laramie, Wyo. He returned to the CNFR in the bareback riding in 2013 and finished fourth in the nation.

Wyatt made a final trip to the collegiate finals in bareback riding in 2014 – that time representing Chadron State College, in Chadron, where he was pursuing a master’s degree in Organizational Management. Wyatt went on to spend two years as the assistant rodeo team coach at CSC.

He got his Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association permit in 2009 and his card in 2015. In 2014, Wyatt qualified for the PRCA Permit Holder of the Year Challenge, finishing fourth in the bareback riding. He also ended up fourth in the bareback riding at the Chisholm Trail Ram Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo that same year.

While he continues to team rope at jackpots, Wyatt has left most of the professional competitions behind. He currently works as a vice president at First Central Bank McCook but stays involved with the rodeo world as a judge for the PRCA, National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, Mid-States Rodeo Association - and now as a coach for the MPCC Rodeo Team.

“Garrett [Nokes] helped me as a young athlete,” Wyatt said. “Growing up, I got to spend a lot of time with him, and he was a positive influence as I started my career and later on as I competed alongside of him. When we lost Garrett, there was a big hole in world of rodeo, in the community and at the college. I felt like I had a calling to step up and use the skills, involvement and connections I’ve developed over the years to help fill that gap and coach students through their academic and athletic careers. I want to help MPCC students have positive and successful experiences in the rodeo arena, the classroom and in our communities.”

To do that, Wyatt plans to draw on the influence of his college coaches. Those include his uncle Jake at EWC, George Howard at UW and Dustin Luper from CSC.

“I think combining the positives from each of those programs will help me develop into a great leader at MPCC,” Wyatt said. “I’m looking forward to working alongside Aukai. I think with our talents, skills and knowledge that we have a strong coaching base. The programs and facilities at Mid-Plains are top-notch, and the community support is amazing. I will work hard to give the students the best possible opportunities, to honor Garrett and his legacy and to continue to bring home championships.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621967621780.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCMid-Plains Community College has a new rodeo team coach.Wyatt Clark, of McCook, has been hired to lead the timed events, joining roughstock coach Aukai Kaai. Clark takes over the role of former MPCC rodeo team coach Garrett Nokes who passed away in February.“I’m excited for the opportunity,” Clark said. “It’s a big gap to fill, but I’m going to do my best for the college, the kids and the community to keep the winning traditions going forward.”Those at the college are looking forward to having Clark on board as well.“We have been blessed with amazing coaches, athletes and community support for the MPCC Rodeo Team,” said Mike Steele, MPCC area vice president of administrative services. “The accomplishments of the team these past seven years have set a standard and an expectation that Aukai and Wyatt are ready to continue and build on to take us to the next level. We are glad to have another talented Southwest Nebraska cowboy join our team to help mold and mentor the next generation of rodeo champions and leaders.”A lifetime of rodeoOriginally from Wellfleet, Clark has spent more than 20 years competing in the rodeo arena. The sport, itself, has been part of his life for as long as he can remember - some might say it’s in his blood.“Rodeo has paved a course in my family’s lives since birth,” Clark said. “It’s helped us develop our careers and compete at the professional level, and has helped me, specifically, go on to earn three degrees, including a master’s. It allowed me to build a network of good friends across the country, helped develop me as an athlete and gave me drive, purpose and the ambition to take on any challenge.”His family’s rodeo tradition began with his grandfather, Dell Clark, a calf roper, team roper and bareback rider at the state level.It continued with Wyatt’s father, J.R., who competed at the high school, college and professional levels and secured the reserve National High School Rodeo Association all-around title. J.R. was also a National Little Britches Rodeo World Champion all-around cowboy in the ’70s.J.R.’s wife, Julie, was a barrel racer at the high school level, and together, she and J.R. passed their love of rodeo onto their children: Wyatt, Jaden, and Madison.Like his father before him, Wyatt went on to become student president of the NHSRA and Jaden served as vice president.Wyatt competed in calf roping, team roping and bareback riding in high school – earning the state championship in bareback riding as well as a National Little Britches Rodeo All-Around Cowboy title.After high school, in 2009, Wyatt headed to Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, Wyo. where his uncle, Jake Clark, is the rodeo team coach. It was there that Wyatt added saddle bronc riding to his list of events.He qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in bareback riding in 2010 as a freshman then was temporarily sidelined because of a shoulder injury.After three years at EWC, Wyatt transferred to the University of Wyoming, in Laramie, Wyo. He returned to the CNFR in the bareback riding in 2013 and finished fourth in the nation.Wyatt made a final trip to the collegiate finals in bareback riding in 2014 – that time representing Chadron State College, in Chadron, where he was pursuing a master’s degree in Organizational Management. Wyatt went on to spend two years as the assistant rodeo team coach at CSC.He got his Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association permit in 2009 and his card in 2015. In 2014, Wyatt qualified for the PRCA Permit Holder of the Year Challenge, finishing fourth in the bareback riding. He also ended up fourth in the bareback riding at the Chisholm Trail Ram Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo that same year.Looking aheadWhile he continues to team rope at jackpots, Wyatt has left most of the professional competitions behind. He currently works as a vice president at First Central Bank McCook but stays involved with the rodeo world as a judge for the PRCA, National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, Mid-States Rodeo Association - and now as a coach for the MPCC Rodeo Team.“Garrett [Nokes] helped me as a young athlete,” Wyatt said. “Growing up, I got to spend a lot of time with him, and he was a positive influence as I started my career and later on as I competed alongside of him. When we lost Garrett, there was a big hole in world of rodeo, in the community and at the college. I felt like I had a calling to step up and use the skills, involvement and connections I’ve developed over the years to help fill that gap and coach students through their academic and athletic careers. I want to help MPCC students have positive and successful experiences in the rodeo arena, the classroom and in our communities.”To do that, Wyatt plans to draw on the influence of his college coaches. Those include his uncle Jake at EWC, George Howard at UW and Dustin Luper from CSC.“I think combining the positives from each of those programs will help me develop into a great leader at MPCC,” Wyatt said. “I’m looking forward to working alongside Aukai. I think with our talents, skills and knowledge that we have a strong coaching base. The programs and facilities at Mid-Plains are top-notch, and the community support is amazing. I will work hard to give the students the best possible opportunities, to honor Garrett and his legacy and to continue to bring home championships.”

Clark named Mid-Plains Community College rodeo team coach

HOLDREGE, Neb. (AP) — A Holdrege man charged in shootings that killed two men and seriously injured another will undergo a fourth mental evaluation. 

The Kearney Hub reports that a judge on Monday approved a motion by prosecutors seeking the psychiatric evaluation of 48-year-old Manuel Gomez. 

The motion followed Gomez’s April filing indicating he intends to rely on an insanity defense at trial. 

Authorities say Gomez shot and killed 65-year-old Raymond Burton and 54-year-old David Rogers in February 2019 at the Sunrise View Apartments in Holdrege. Prosecutors say he also shot and wounded his attorney at the time, Doyle Morse. 

In the past two years, Gomez has been found mentally unfit to stand trial, then deemed restored to competency and ordered to stand trial for first-degree murder and other counts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621961827519.png" alt="Gomez" />
 <figcaption>Gomez</figcaption>
 </figure>HOLDREGE, Neb. (AP) — A Holdrege man charged in shootings that killed two men and seriously injured another will undergo a fourth mental evaluation. The Kearney Hub reports that a judge on Monday approved a motion by prosecutors seeking the psychiatric evaluation of 48-year-old Manuel Gomez. The motion followed Gomez’s April filing indicating he intends to rely on an insanity defense at trial. Authorities say Gomez shot and killed 65-year-old Raymond Burton and 54-year-old David Rogers in February 2019 at the Sunrise View Apartments in Holdrege. Prosecutors say he also shot and wounded his attorney at the time, Doyle Morse. In the past two years, Gomez has been found mentally unfit to stand trial, then deemed restored to competency and ordered to stand trial for first-degree murder and other counts.

Holdrege man charged in killings to undergo mental test

LINCOLN, Neb.-Rod Jauken of Funk is the fifth winner of a 2021 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew Flex Fuel truck in the 26th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game.

Jauken purchased his winning Truck$ &amp; Buck$ ticket at Pump &amp; Pantry #23 at 916 Fourth Street in Holdrege.

Nebraska Lottery officials presented Jauken with his truck on Monday, May 24 at Pump &amp; Pantry. Jauken said his winning ticket was one of the first he purchased this year.

While on his way to Hastings to pick up a load of fertilizer, he heard about the most recent Truck$ &amp; Buck$ truck winner in Columbus and decided to buy a few tickets. He brought them with him to scratch on the way to a wedding on May 15.

He scratched off the ticket, checked it to make sure he’d actually won and had his friends turn around so he could take the ticket home to put it in a safe place.

“I put it in my freezer,” Jauken said. “Because I figured if anything happened, like a fire or anything, it would still be there.”

Dozens of friends, family and well-wishers from Holdrege and the surrounding area showed up at Monday’s event to congratulate Jauken. When they’d ask him what his secret was, Jauken said, “It’s dumb luck, that’s all I can tell you.”

Jauken’s current truck is nearly 20 years old and has over 200,000 miles on it, he said, so this win came at a perfect time.

“I’ve been looking for a pickup and now I have one,” he said. “Honest to gosh, it’s a blessing, I’m telling you.”

The 26th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s popular $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game features the 2021 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew Flex Fuel truck as its top prize. Players have the opportunity to win one of seven Ford F-150 trucks as well as cash and Ethanol-enriched fuel prizes. The truck prize is valued at $56,600, which includes $1,199 for costs associated with ownership and state and federal withholding paid by the Nebraska Lottery of $2,830 and $13,584, respectively. The odds of winning the top prize in Truck$ &amp; Buck$ are 1 in 300,000, while the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 3.74.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $818 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621960484222.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska LotteryLINCOLN, Neb.-Rod Jauken of Funk is the fifth winner of a 2021 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew Flex Fuel truck in the 26th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game.Jauken purchased his winning Truck$ &amp; Buck$ ticket at Pump &amp; Pantry #23 at 916 Fourth Street in Holdrege.Nebraska Lottery officials presented Jauken with his truck on Monday, May 24 at Pump &amp; Pantry. Jauken said his winning ticket was one of the first he purchased this year.While on his way to Hastings to pick up a load of fertilizer, he heard about the most recent Truck$ &amp; Buck$ truck winner in Columbus and decided to buy a few tickets. He brought them with him to scratch on the way to a wedding on May 15.He scratched off the ticket, checked it to make sure he’d actually won and had his friends turn around so he could take the ticket home to put it in a safe place.“I put it in my freezer,” Jauken said. “Because I figured if anything happened, like a fire or anything, it would still be there.”Dozens of friends, family and well-wishers from Holdrege and the surrounding area showed up at Monday’s event to congratulate Jauken. When they’d ask him what his secret was, Jauken said, “It’s dumb luck, that’s all I can tell you.”Jauken’s current truck is nearly 20 years old and has over 200,000 miles on it, he said, so this win came at a perfect time.“I’ve been looking for a pickup and now I have one,” he said. “Honest to gosh, it’s a blessing, I’m telling you.”The 26th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s popular $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game features the 2021 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew Flex Fuel truck as its top prize. Players have the opportunity to win one of seven Ford F-150 trucks as well as cash and Ethanol-enriched fuel prizes. The truck prize is valued at $56,600, which includes $1,199 for costs associated with ownership and state and federal withholding paid by the Nebraska Lottery of $2,830 and $13,584, respectively. The odds of winning the top prize in Truck$ &amp; Buck$ are 1 in 300,000, while the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 3.74.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $818 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds

Funk man claims 5th Nebraska Lottery Truck$ & Buck$ truck

By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-If there's anyone who knows about school spirit, it's the North Platte High School cheerleaders and Pacers.

The teams want to help boost your school spirit by painting a Dawg pawprint on your sidewalk or driveway.

The paintings are three feet by three and a half feet and are, of course, Bulldog blue and gold. The cost is $20.

If interested, contact Pacers coach Audri Pelton at apelton@nppsd.org or cheer coach Jenna Campbell at jcampbell@nppsd.org. You can also contact any member of the cheer team or Pacers.

Originally, the order cut-off date was May 19, but the teams are ready and willing to keep going.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621958368902.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-If there's anyone who knows about school spirit, it's the North Platte High School cheerleaders and Pacers.The teams want to help boost your school spirit by painting a Dawg pawprint on your sidewalk or driveway.The paintings are three feet by three and a half feet and are, of course, Bulldog blue and gold. The cost is $20.If interested, contact Pacers coach Audri Pelton at apelton@nppsd.org or cheer coach Jenna Campbell at jcampbell@nppsd.org. You can also contact any member of the cheer team or Pacers.Originally, the order cut-off date was May 19, but the teams are ready and willing to keep going.

North Platte High cheerleaders, Pacers want to Dawg-up your driveway

LINCOLN, Neb.-Be a good neighbor and buckle up. State transportation and law enforcement agencies from Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming are coming together to remind travelers to fasten their seat belts. The&nbsp;State2State. Buckle Up&nbsp;campaign wants both drivers and passengers to stay buckled up no matter what state they are in or how far they are traveling.

The campaign coincides with the start of the national&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;seat belt enforcement period, which starts today. During&nbsp;Click It or Ticket,&nbsp;troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime throughout Nebraska to keep Nebraska roads safe.

“As the summer travel season begins and road trips are on the horizon, we want all travelers to be safe on the road,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “This partnership of states is important to share the message from state to state that seat belts save lives.”

The&nbsp;State2State. Buckle Up&nbsp;campaign focuses on a communication partnership throughout the participating states, sharing similar safety messages with drivers as they pass from state to state.

In 2019, 63 percent of the people who died on Nebraska roads were not wearing their seat belt at the time of the crash. National statistics show that, when used, seat belts reduce the risk of fatalities by 45 percent for front-seat passenger car occupants and by 60 percent for light truck occupants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621950919384.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Be a good neighbor and buckle up. State transportation and law enforcement agencies from Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming are coming together to remind travelers to fasten their seat belts. The&nbsp;State2State. Buckle Up&nbsp;campaign wants both drivers and passengers to stay buckled up no matter what state they are in or how far they are traveling.The campaign coincides with the start of the national&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;seat belt enforcement period, which starts today. During&nbsp;Click It or Ticket,&nbsp;troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime throughout Nebraska to keep Nebraska roads safe.“As the summer travel season begins and road trips are on the horizon, we want all travelers to be safe on the road,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “This partnership of states is important to share the message from state to state that seat belts save lives.”The&nbsp;State2State. Buckle Up&nbsp;campaign focuses on a communication partnership throughout the participating states, sharing similar safety messages with drivers as they pass from state to state.In 2019, 63 percent of the people who died on Nebraska roads were not wearing their seat belt at the time of the crash. National statistics show that, when used, seat belts reduce the risk of fatalities by 45 percent for front-seat passenger car occupants and by 60 percent for light truck occupants.

Nebraska State Patrol to participate in State2State Buckle Up campaign


North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity will be accepting applications
for the homeowner program June 1st through June 30th.


North
Platte area residents interested in applying are encouraged to attend
one of two information sessions being held 6:00 pm Thursday, June 3rd
or 10:00 am Saturday, June 5th. The sessions will be held
in the auditorium at the West Central Research, Extension and
Education Center on West State Farm Road. At the information session
attendees will learn where Habitat is currently building, the
eligibility criteria, how to apply and responsibilities of a Habitat
homeowner. 


Dalene
Skates, Executive Director for NPAHFH said the Habitat for Humanity
program allows people who might not otherwise have an opportunity the
chance to become a homeowner. 

“Habitat works alongside qualified
families to build safe, decent, affordable houses then sells it to
the family with a 0 percent interest mortgage,” said Skates.

Skates
said providing stability, security and homeownership for families is
what makes the work Habitat does so important.

“Each family pours
so much of themselves into the building process through the Sweat
Equity aspect of the program. To be able to say they helped build
their own house for their family is such an accomplishment. It is
life changing really. Not just for the family but for the volunteers
associated with the program as well,” Skates said.

North
Platte Area Habitat for Humanity is a Christian-based organization
seeking to put God’s love into action by bringing folks together to
build homes, communities and hope. To date, NPAHFH has completed 59
houses with two currently under construction.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621602087070.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Habitat for Humanity
North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity will be accepting applications
for the homeowner program June 1st through June 30th.
North
Platte area residents interested in applying are encouraged to attend
one of two information sessions being held 6:00 pm Thursday, June 3rd
or 10:00 am Saturday, June 5th. The sessions will be held
in the auditorium at the West Central Research, Extension and
Education Center on West State Farm Road. At the information session
attendees will learn where Habitat is currently building, the
eligibility criteria, how to apply and responsibilities of a Habitat
homeowner. 
Dalene
Skates, Executive Director for NPAHFH said the Habitat for Humanity
program allows people who might not otherwise have an opportunity the
chance to become a homeowner. “Habitat works alongside qualified
families to build safe, decent, affordable houses then sells it to
the family with a 0 percent interest mortgage,” said Skates.Skates
said providing stability, security and homeownership for families is
what makes the work Habitat does so important.“Each family pours
so much of themselves into the building process through the Sweat
Equity aspect of the program. To be able to say they helped build
their own house for their family is such an accomplishment. It is
life changing really. Not just for the family but for the volunteers
associated with the program as well,” Skates said.North
Platte Area Habitat for Humanity is a Christian-based organization
seeking to put God’s love into action by bringing folks together to
build homes, communities and hope. To date, NPAHFH has completed 59
houses with two currently under construction.

North Platte Habitat for Humanity accepting applications next month

An enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms is forecast for Wednesday afternoon/Wednesday night. 

Large hail, damaging winds and isolated tornadoes are possible.&nbsp;

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteAn enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms is forecast for Wednesday afternoon/Wednesday night. Large hail, damaging winds and isolated tornadoes are possible.&nbsp;<figure>
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Enhanced risk of severe weather for southwest Nebraska Wednesday

OGALLALA, Neb.-School may be out, but learning doesn’t have to stop.

The Mid-Plains Community College Ogallala Campus is offering area youth the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs this summer.

The campus will start up its annual Try-It-Out-Thursday program June 3 and continue it every Thursday through the end of July.

There will be two sessions to choose from, 1-3 p.m. or 3-5 p.m., for all but three of the classes. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required to reserve a spot as class sizes are limited.

“We’ve been offering a summer youth program for more than a decade, and it has been extremely popular,” said Mary Pierce, MPCC Ogallala Campus administrator. “That’s thanks to the ingenuity of our instructors who provide fun classes with a learning component. We love being able to offer that type of programming for local youth.”

All classes will be at the MPCC Ogallala Campus, 512 E. B St. S., in Ogallala.

Registration can be done online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/bce" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/bce</a>, by calling (308) 284-9830 or by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:piercem@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">piercem@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:berolg@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">berolg@mpcc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621890692655.png" alt="A bicycle maintenance class and rodeo will be part of the Try-It-Out-Thursday program offered at the MPCC Ogallala Campus this summer." />
 <figcaption>A bicycle maintenance class and rodeo will be part of the Try-It-Out-Thursday program offered at the MPCC Ogallala Campus this summer.</figcaption>
 </figure>OGALLALA, Neb.-School may be out, but learning doesn’t have to stop.The Mid-Plains Community College Ogallala Campus is offering area youth the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs this summer.The campus will start up its annual Try-It-Out-Thursday program June 3 and continue it every Thursday through the end of July.There will be two sessions to choose from, 1-3 p.m. or 3-5 p.m., for all but three of the classes. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required to reserve a spot as class sizes are limited.“We’ve been offering a summer youth program for more than a decade, and it has been extremely popular,” said Mary Pierce, MPCC Ogallala Campus administrator. “That’s thanks to the ingenuity of our instructors who provide fun classes with a learning component. We love being able to offer that type of programming for local youth.”The following classes are available.<ul>
 <li>June 3 - Bicycle Maintenance and Rodeo&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – The basics of bicycle upkeep and safe riding habits will be explained, after which participants will cruise their bikes through a course set up in the campus parking lot. The fee is $10. Participants must provide their own bikes and helmets.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>June 10 - Pick and Paint Your Project&nbsp;(Open to all ages) – Students will choose a wood project, such as began bag toss, yard dice, birdhouse, cornhole board or garden box and sign, to create and paint. It’s recommended that painting clothes be worn. The fee is $20.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>June 17 - Branching Out&nbsp;(Open to all ages) – Those who sign up for this class will discover and play with tree roots, leaves and seeds. Instruction will be given on how to properly plant a provided tree. The fee is $10.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>June 24 - Cast Iron and Campfires&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – The class will provide an introduction to outdoor cooking, campfire style. Participants will learn how to safely cook cobbler, s’mores and other goodies, in addition to other cooking basics. The fee is $15.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 1 – Healthy Habits Camp&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – Students will discover nutritious food that is good for the body and delicious. They will dive into each of the food groups, learn about healthy eating and physical activity and make several recipes. The fee is $10.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 8 – Mad Science&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – Students will conduct wacky experiments while learning how fun science can be. The fee is $15.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 8 – Kindness is Cool&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – Only one session, 1-3 p.m., is available for this class. Students will be asked to think creatively to make a variety of “thank you” projects to show their appreciation for others. The fee is $20.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 8 – Totally Tie-Dyed&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) - Only one session, 3-5 p.m., is available. Participants are asked to take a pair of white canvas shoes that can be transformed into art. Among other things, they will learn how to tie-dye with permanent markers. The fee is $15.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 15 – It’s in the Bag&nbsp;(Open to all ages) – Attendees will be encouraged to spend time outside this summer. They will make a picnic mat, along with other fun items, for a memorable picnic. The fee is $15.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 22 – Introduction to Theater&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – This class will provide an introduction to the world of live theater, including discussion and physical activities. Students will learn basic ideas and skills for both on stage and behind the scenes. The fee is $15.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 29 – Investigating Insects&nbsp;(Open to ages 8 and older) – Participants will become insect investigators. Among other things, they will examine the life cycle of a praying mantis and use a powerful magnifying glass to inspect a butterfly. The fee is $10.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 29 – Simple CPR/First Aid&nbsp;– (Open to ages 8 and older) – Only one session, 9-11 a.m., is available. The basics of hands-on CPR and first aid will be taught. Students will learn what steps to take and how to remain calm during an emergency. They will also make a first-aid kit. This is a non-certified class. The fee is $10.</li>
 </ul>All classes will be at the MPCC Ogallala Campus, 512 E. B St. S., in Ogallala.Registration can be done online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/bce" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/bce</a>, by calling (308) 284-9830 or by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:piercem@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">piercem@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:berolg@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">berolg@mpcc.edu</a>.

Try-It-Out-Thursdays planned at MPCC Ogallala Campus

CENTRAL CITY, Neb.-A Central City family is asking for the public's help in locating their missing loved one.

On Facebook, Marella McCarthy says her daughter Reilly Shakin, 24, who has lived in North Platte, has been missing since May 12. She has still not been heard from.

McCarthy says Reilly is considered an at-risk adult and a missing persons report has been filed.

Reilly is 5'3", weighs 150 pounds, and has blonde or strawberry hair with hazel eyes.

If you have any information on Reilly's whereabouts, contact the Central City Police Department at 308-946-3003.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621247882637.png" alt="Reilly Shakin" />
 <figcaption>Reilly Shakin</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostCENTRAL CITY, Neb.-A Central City family is asking for the public's help in locating their missing loved one.On Facebook, Marella McCarthy says her daughter Reilly Shakin, 24, who has lived in North Platte, has been missing since May 12. She has still not been heard from.McCarthy says Reilly is considered an at-risk adult and a missing persons report has been filed.Reilly is 5'3", weighs 150 pounds, and has blonde or strawberry hair with hazel eyes.If you have any information on Reilly's whereabouts, contact the Central City Police Department at 308-946-3003.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621247847361.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Former North Platte woman still missing

WELLFLEET, Neb.-Severe storms brought damaging winds, torrential rains, large hail, and dangerous lightning to the area on Sunday according to reports, but it packed more of a punch at Bethel Bible Camp near Wellfleet.

The National Weather Service has not confirmed if it was a microburst, straight-line winds, or a tornado that caused damage at the camp.

Numerous buildings sustained significant damage, but volunteers were already at work making repairs on Monday.

Hail up to three inches was reported in southwest Nebraska with the storms that produced significant damage in Colorado, spawning at least eight tornadoes in the eastern part of the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621905621936.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostWELLFLEET, Neb.-Severe storms brought damaging winds, torrential rains, large hail, and dangerous lightning to the area on Sunday according to reports, but it packed more of a punch at Bethel Bible Camp near Wellfleet.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621905461348.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service has not confirmed if it was a microburst, straight-line winds, or a tornado that caused damage at the camp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621905580090.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Numerous buildings sustained significant damage, but volunteers were already at work making repairs on Monday.No injuries have been reported.Hail up to three inches was reported in southwest Nebraska with the storms that produced significant damage in Colorado, spawning at least eight tornadoes in the eastern part of the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621905601847.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Storm causes damage at Bible camp near Wellfleet

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department has released the schedule of their upcoming COVID-19 vaccination clinics.

WCDHD is administering the Moderna, Pfizer, and Johson &amp; Johnson vaccines.

By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department has released the schedule of their upcoming COVID-19 vaccination clinics.WCDHD is administering the Moderna, Pfizer, and Johson &amp; Johnson vaccines.<h2>Clinics and locations</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621890003394.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621890021327.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621890038983.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

WCDHD announces upcoming COVID vaccine clinics

Dunkin’ invites&nbsp;North Platte&nbsp;to enjoy a Dunkin’ Iced Coffee while giving back to the community during this coming Iced Coffee Day. On May 26, $0.50 from all Iced Coffees sold at participating Dunkin’ in North Platte&nbsp;will benefit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.joyinchildhoodfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation</a>&nbsp;and its mission to bring joy to kids battling hunger or illness.&nbsp;

Since 2006, the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation has granted more than $30 million and will grant $7 million this year.&nbsp;

“There so much for Iced Coffee fans to celebrate next week with this special day benefitting a good cause at our Dunkin’ restaurants throughout&nbsp;North Platte,” said Heather Morin, Field Marketing Manager, Dunkin’. “A donation to the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation and the wonderful work they do for children is the perfect way to celebrate Iced Coffee Day, and we hope our guests will join in on the celebration on May 26 with their favorite iced coffee beverage.”&nbsp;

Guests can customize their Dunkin’ Iced Coffee just the way they like it, with a variety of dairy and non-dairy, sweetener, and flavor options. Dunkin’ is the market leader in the Iced Coffee category, delivering freshly brewed Iced Coffee to guests every day, with a smooth, delicious taste.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To learn more about the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bringjoy.org/" target="_blank">www.bringjoy.org</a>&nbsp;and follow us on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/JoyInChildhoodFoundation" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/joyinchildhood/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621888655055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Dunkin'Dunkin’ invites&nbsp;North Platte&nbsp;to enjoy a Dunkin’ Iced Coffee while giving back to the community during this coming Iced Coffee Day. On May 26, $0.50 from all Iced Coffees sold at participating Dunkin’ in North Platte&nbsp;will benefit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.joyinchildhoodfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation</a>&nbsp;and its mission to bring joy to kids battling hunger or illness.&nbsp;Since 2006, the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation has granted more than $30 million and will grant $7 million this year.&nbsp;“There so much for Iced Coffee fans to celebrate next week with this special day benefitting a good cause at our Dunkin’ restaurants throughout&nbsp;North Platte,” said Heather Morin, Field Marketing Manager, Dunkin’. “A donation to the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation and the wonderful work they do for children is the perfect way to celebrate Iced Coffee Day, and we hope our guests will join in on the celebration on May 26 with their favorite iced coffee beverage.”&nbsp;Guests can customize their Dunkin’ Iced Coffee just the way they like it, with a variety of dairy and non-dairy, sweetener, and flavor options. Dunkin’ is the market leader in the Iced Coffee category, delivering freshly brewed Iced Coffee to guests every day, with a smooth, delicious taste.&nbsp;&nbsp;To learn more about the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bringjoy.org/" target="_blank">www.bringjoy.org</a>&nbsp;and follow us on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/JoyInChildhoodFoundation" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/joyinchildhood/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.&nbsp;

Wednesday is Iced Coffee Day at Dunkin' North Platte

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore launched an initiative to “Reconnect Nebraska” with relationships, activities, and service opportunities as the pandemic ends and life returns to normal.&nbsp; They were joined by Nebraska Tourism Commission Executive Director John Ricks who encouraged Nebraskans to get out and enjoy the state’s beautiful places and the exciting events happening across Nebraska this summer.&nbsp;

“For generations, our strength as a state has come from Nebraskans who are devoted to their neighborhoods and communities,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “As life returns to normal, it’s time to reconnect with one another to make sure we don’t lose the things that make Nebraska great.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to reengage with the relationships and activities that have been disrupted by the coronavirus.&nbsp; Whether it’s your place of worship, recreation, or volunteerism, reflect on how you can reconnect with the people you love and the organizations you’ve served over the years. &nbsp;Together, we can continue to grow the Good Life as we put the pandemic behind us.”

At this morning’s event, First Lady Susanne Shore announced the launch of “Nebraska Reflects,” an online platform where Nebraskans can honor those who stepped up to serve others during the pandemic.&nbsp; Nebraskans can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimpact.org%2Freflects&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135852524%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=BOpFLB1MX5HEl8O1303ba%2BawqVs9Bu1KoJnYoWr1mcs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.neimpact.org/reflects</a>&nbsp;to pay tribute to the people whose leadership, encouragement, and support made a difference as the state dealt with the virus.&nbsp; The First Lady also asked Nebraskans to look for ways to volunteer their time and talents to strengthen their communities.&nbsp; Volunteer opportunities with around 150 organizations are posted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nevolunteers.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135862484%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=lFrbkIiEnB1wxmUZ3PtTZTD8i2hnFxo9ggMKG3dcUGg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nevolunteers.com</a>.

“This is a great day for Nebraska—one we have been looking forward to for more than a year,” said First Lady Shore.&nbsp; “I want to thank all of the amazing health care providers, public health officials, state and local leaders, non-profit organizations, and so many others for their unwavering work to bring our state through this pandemic.&nbsp; Thousands of caring, compassionate Nebraskans have stepped up in big and small ways to help others.&nbsp; We’ve been through so much, and the true spirit of our amazing state has shone brightly.”

Nebraska Tourism Commission Executive Director John Ricks invited Nebraskans to take part in the 2021 Nebraska Passport Program.&nbsp; It kicked off on May 1 and runs through the end of September.&nbsp; This year, participants can get their passport stamped at 70 stops throughout the state.&nbsp; Stamped passports can then be submitted for prizes.&nbsp; To order a passport and learn more about this year’s program, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskapassport.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135862484%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=64StxBU0xdbEZiNgTQV%2FoOpIQBm3w4%2FgBJtZX19rPkI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraskapassport.com</a>.

“Reconnect Nebraska fits in perfectly with the excitement we’re seeing build for travel in Nebraska this summer.&nbsp; It’s a great way for Nebraskans to reconnect with people and places across the state.&nbsp; And there’s no shortage of ways to do just that—including the Nebraska Passport Program.&nbsp; The Nebraska Passport is a great way to support local Nebraska businesses and the communities they are in.&nbsp; With 30,000 Passport booklets requested and almost 16,000 digital stamps collected already, we’re hopeful it will be another record-breaking year.”

During the press conference, Governor Ricketts announced that the State of Nebraska is discontinuing its Directed Health Measures, effective at midnight tonight.&nbsp; Gov. Ricketts is also rescinding several executive orders that he had issued during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; They will be rescinded on June 1, 2021 and include&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-06.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-06</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-09.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-09</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-13.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-13</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-14.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-14</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-19.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-19</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-21.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-21</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-22.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-22</a>.&nbsp; Additionally, he issued a new executive order (EO 21-05) to prohibit masks from being mandated in State of Nebraska code agency office buildings.&nbsp; Under this order, State teammates who had been working remotely because of the pandemic will return to in-person work arrangements. &nbsp;Full text of EO 21-05 is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fv2emfk7hfut4esu%2FEO%2520No.%252021-05%2520-%2520Return%2520to%2520Work.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135872437%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=SNBAsvjcq%2FiZO8528bjpnGboljPfM1Ra3G9ZvhO%2F1jc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Video from today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovernorPeteRicketts%2Fvideos%2F491228182213000&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135882396%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=yNG7nuX7zuzc1O3UV%2F4IxjwumVdcZkCzr4JKcWyLDrE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;This was Governor Ricketts’ final coronavirus briefing.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore launched an initiative to “Reconnect Nebraska” with relationships, activities, and service opportunities as the pandemic ends and life returns to normal.&nbsp; They were joined by Nebraska Tourism Commission Executive Director John Ricks who encouraged Nebraskans to get out and enjoy the state’s beautiful places and the exciting events happening across Nebraska this summer.&nbsp;“For generations, our strength as a state has come from Nebraskans who are devoted to their neighborhoods and communities,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “As life returns to normal, it’s time to reconnect with one another to make sure we don’t lose the things that make Nebraska great.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to reengage with the relationships and activities that have been disrupted by the coronavirus.&nbsp; Whether it’s your place of worship, recreation, or volunteerism, reflect on how you can reconnect with the people you love and the organizations you’ve served over the years. &nbsp;Together, we can continue to grow the Good Life as we put the pandemic behind us.”At this morning’s event, First Lady Susanne Shore announced the launch of “Nebraska Reflects,” an online platform where Nebraskans can honor those who stepped up to serve others during the pandemic.&nbsp; Nebraskans can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimpact.org%2Freflects&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135852524%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=BOpFLB1MX5HEl8O1303ba%2BawqVs9Bu1KoJnYoWr1mcs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.neimpact.org/reflects</a>&nbsp;to pay tribute to the people whose leadership, encouragement, and support made a difference as the state dealt with the virus.&nbsp; The First Lady also asked Nebraskans to look for ways to volunteer their time and talents to strengthen their communities.&nbsp; Volunteer opportunities with around 150 organizations are posted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nevolunteers.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135862484%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=lFrbkIiEnB1wxmUZ3PtTZTD8i2hnFxo9ggMKG3dcUGg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nevolunteers.com</a>.“This is a great day for Nebraska—one we have been looking forward to for more than a year,” said First Lady Shore.&nbsp; “I want to thank all of the amazing health care providers, public health officials, state and local leaders, non-profit organizations, and so many others for their unwavering work to bring our state through this pandemic.&nbsp; Thousands of caring, compassionate Nebraskans have stepped up in big and small ways to help others.&nbsp; We’ve been through so much, and the true spirit of our amazing state has shone brightly.”Nebraska Tourism Commission Executive Director John Ricks invited Nebraskans to take part in the 2021 Nebraska Passport Program.&nbsp; It kicked off on May 1 and runs through the end of September.&nbsp; This year, participants can get their passport stamped at 70 stops throughout the state.&nbsp; Stamped passports can then be submitted for prizes.&nbsp; To order a passport and learn more about this year’s program, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskapassport.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135862484%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=64StxBU0xdbEZiNgTQV%2FoOpIQBm3w4%2FgBJtZX19rPkI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraskapassport.com</a>.“Reconnect Nebraska fits in perfectly with the excitement we’re seeing build for travel in Nebraska this summer.&nbsp; It’s a great way for Nebraskans to reconnect with people and places across the state.&nbsp; And there’s no shortage of ways to do just that—including the Nebraska Passport Program.&nbsp; The Nebraska Passport is a great way to support local Nebraska businesses and the communities they are in.&nbsp; With 30,000 Passport booklets requested and almost 16,000 digital stamps collected already, we’re hopeful it will be another record-breaking year.”During the press conference, Governor Ricketts announced that the State of Nebraska is discontinuing its Directed Health Measures, effective at midnight tonight.&nbsp; Gov. Ricketts is also rescinding several executive orders that he had issued during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; They will be rescinded on June 1, 2021 and include&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-06.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-06</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-09.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-09</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-13.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-13</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-14.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-14</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-19.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-19</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-21.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-21</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://govdocs.nebraska.gov/docs/pilot/pubs/eofiles/20-22.pdf" target="_blank">EO 20-22</a>.&nbsp; Additionally, he issued a new executive order (EO 21-05) to prohibit masks from being mandated in State of Nebraska code agency office buildings.&nbsp; Under this order, State teammates who had been working remotely because of the pandemic will return to in-person work arrangements. &nbsp;Full text of EO 21-05 is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fv2emfk7hfut4esu%2FEO%2520No.%252021-05%2520-%2520Return%2520to%2520Work.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135872437%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=SNBAsvjcq%2FiZO8528bjpnGboljPfM1Ra3G9ZvhO%2F1jc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Video from today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovernorPeteRicketts%2Fvideos%2F491228182213000&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cbc47243a7b9c42b376ff08d91ed3c3dc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637574717135882396%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=yNG7nuX7zuzc1O3UV%2F4IxjwumVdcZkCzr4JKcWyLDrE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;This was Governor Ricketts’ final coronavirus briefing.

Ricketts, Shore launch Initiative to 'Reconnect Nebraska'   

Scott Carlson sits down with Prairie Arts Center Executive Director Holly Carlini to discuss two great events coming up at PAC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582239655657.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scott Carlson sits down with Prairie Arts Center Executive Director Holly Carlini to discuss two great events coming up at PAC.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Two great events coming up at the Prairie Arts Center" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=4uhcg-10422c2-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=6&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div>

Post Podcast: 2 great events coming up at the Prairie Arts Center

News Release Nebraska Department of Labor

&nbsp;Nebraska will no longer participate in federal pandemic unemployment programs effective June 19.&nbsp; The State has notified the US Department of Labor of its intent to withdraw&nbsp;from the following:

Notwithstanding the termination, the Continued Assistance Act (CAA) and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 created additional benefit eligibility for some workers. Claimants should continue to file weekly claims at NEworks.nebraska.gov to receive all benefits for which they are eligible, or file a new claim if they have not yet applied.

All claims for federal benefits covering weeks of unemployment through June 19 will continue to be processed. The last payable week under each program may vary. Nebraska will continue to pay regular unemployment claims for those who qualify.

Unemployment claimants in Nebraska have been required to complete weekly job searches since July 12, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;NDOL job centers across the state are helping Nebraskans return to the workforce, and a variety of programs are available, including on-the-job training.

As federal pandemic unemployment programs end in Nebraska, the State encourages claimants to search for work at NEworks.nebraska.gov, which currently has nearly 40,000 active job postings of all skill levels in many different industries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565694644520.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Department of Labor&nbsp;Nebraska will no longer participate in federal pandemic unemployment programs effective June 19.&nbsp; The State has notified the US Department of Labor of its intent to withdraw&nbsp;from the following:<ul>
 <li><a>Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC)</a>, which provides an additional $300 weekly payment to all recipients of state or federal unemployment benefits.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), which provides benefits for those who would not usually qualify, such as the self-employed and gig workers.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), which provides for an extension of benefits once regular benefits have been exhausted</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Mixed Earner Unemployment Compensation (MEUC), which provides an additional $100 benefit to certain people with earnings from both self-employment and wages.</li>
 </ul>Notwithstanding the termination, the Continued Assistance Act (CAA) and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 created additional benefit eligibility for some workers. Claimants should continue to file weekly claims at NEworks.nebraska.gov to receive all benefits for which they are eligible, or file a new claim if they have not yet applied.All claims for federal benefits covering weeks of unemployment through June 19 will continue to be processed. The last payable week under each program may vary. Nebraska will continue to pay regular unemployment claims for those who qualify.Unemployment claimants in Nebraska have been required to complete weekly job searches since July 12, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;NDOL job centers across the state are helping Nebraskans return to the workforce, and a variety of programs are available, including on-the-job training.As federal pandemic unemployment programs end in Nebraska, the State encourages claimants to search for work at NEworks.nebraska.gov, which currently has nearly 40,000 active job postings of all skill levels in many different industries.

Nebraska to end participation in federal pandemic unemployment programs

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is looking for the next class of State Troopers to help patrol The Good Life. Applications are now open for NSP Camp 66.

“The journey to becoming a Nebraska State Trooper starts with an application, and we’re looking for men and women who are ready to take that first step,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Filling out that application opens the door to a world of opportunity and a fulfilling career spent serving the people of Nebraska.”

Nebraska State Troopers serve Nebraska in a wide variety of capacities. Career paths include patrolling Nebraska’s roadways, investigating crime throughout the state, handling a K-9, connecting with the public through education and safety programs, operating on the SWAT Team, piloting with the Air Wing, negotiating during crisis situations, and many more.

Camp 66 begins training in January 2022 and will conclude with the graduation of a new class of State Troopers in June 2022. The Nebraska State Patrol offers a starting salary of $47,944 upon graduation, along with benefits including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. During a 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy, recruits will earn $21.00 per hour.

“All of the future troopers selected to be a part of Camp 66 will receive extensive training from our expert staff at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy,” said Colonel Bolduc. “The recruits bring the drive and attitude of service, and our staff will develop the skills they need to serve with professionalism, honor, and compassion as Nebraska State Troopers.”

Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by June 17, 2022, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the application and selection process, including physical requirements, can be found at the&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/become-trooper" target="_blank">Become A Trooper</a>&nbsp;section of the NSP website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621869122134.png" alt="Photo: NSP" />
 <figcaption>Photo: NSP</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska State Patrol is looking for the next class of State Troopers to help patrol The Good Life. Applications are now open for NSP Camp 66.“The journey to becoming a Nebraska State Trooper starts with an application, and we’re looking for men and women who are ready to take that first step,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Filling out that application opens the door to a world of opportunity and a fulfilling career spent serving the people of Nebraska.”Nebraska State Troopers serve Nebraska in a wide variety of capacities. Career paths include patrolling Nebraska’s roadways, investigating crime throughout the state, handling a K-9, connecting with the public through education and safety programs, operating on the SWAT Team, piloting with the Air Wing, negotiating during crisis situations, and many more.Camp 66 begins training in January 2022 and will conclude with the graduation of a new class of State Troopers in June 2022. The Nebraska State Patrol offers a starting salary of $47,944 upon graduation, along with benefits including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. During a 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy, recruits will earn $21.00 per hour.“All of the future troopers selected to be a part of Camp 66 will receive extensive training from our expert staff at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy,” said Colonel Bolduc. “The recruits bring the drive and attitude of service, and our staff will develop the skills they need to serve with professionalism, honor, and compassion as Nebraska State Troopers.”Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by June 17, 2022, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the application and selection process, including physical requirements, can be found at the&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/become-trooper" target="_blank">Become A Trooper</a>&nbsp;section of the NSP website.

Nebraska State Patrol begins search for next class of troopers

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge will allow a Native American tribe to join legal arguments opposing South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s efforts to put on a July Fourth fireworks display at Mount Rushmore. 

The Republican governor has sued the Department of the Interior after the National Park Service denied the state a permit to hold a fireworks display at the monument. 

Chief Judge Roberto Lange ruled the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe can join the case.

 Lange granted the tribe’s request in part because the Park Service cited concerns from local Native American tribes for denying the state’s application.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge will allow a Native American tribe to join legal arguments opposing South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s efforts to put on a July Fourth fireworks display at Mount Rushmore. The Republican governor has sued the Department of the Interior after the National Park Service denied the state a permit to hold a fireworks display at the monument. Chief Judge Roberto Lange ruled the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe can join the case. Lange granted the tribe’s request in part because the Park Service cited concerns from local Native American tribes for denying the state’s application.

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