A North Platte man was arrested last week after he allegedly led police on a pursuit.

According to North Platte police, on February 25, at around 7:45 p.m., officers responded to the area of the 2300 Block of Burlington Avenue on the report of a suspicious vehicle.  It was reported a silver Dodge Durango was driving through yards in this area. 

Police say officers arrived in the area but were unable to locate the vehicle. However, a few hours later, at around 10:45 p.m., an officer was in the area of 2300 East 6th Street when they observed a silver Dodge Durango driving with no license plates. 

Police say the officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop but the vehicle fled and a pursuit was initiated.  The pursuit went on for a few minutes until the vehicle struck a parked car and wooden fence in the 2300 Block of East Philip. 

According to police, the driver, later identified as Terry Barthel Jr., fled on foot after the accident.  Barthel Jr was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.

Police say officers also located a large fixed blade knife on Barthel's person. As a convicted felon, Barthel Jr. is prohibited from possessing the knife. 

 Barthel Jr. was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of driving under suspension, willful reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person. 

 The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office assisted with this incident.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614619373972.jpeg" alt="Barthel, Jr." />
 <figcaption>Barthel, Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostA North Platte man was arrested last week after he allegedly led police on a pursuit.According to North Platte police, on February 25, at around 7:45 p.m., officers responded to the area of the 2300 Block of Burlington Avenue on the report of a suspicious vehicle. It was reported a silver Dodge Durango was driving through yards in this area. Police say officers arrived in the area but were unable to locate the vehicle. However, a few hours later, at around 10:45 p.m., an officer was in the area of 2300 East 6th Street when they observed a silver Dodge Durango driving with no license plates. Police say the officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop but the vehicle fled and a pursuit was initiated. The pursuit went on for a few minutes until the vehicle struck a parked car and wooden fence in the 2300 Block of East Philip. According to police, the driver, later identified as Terry Barthel Jr., fled on foot after the accident. Barthel Jr was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.Police say officers also located a large fixed blade knife on Barthel's person. As a convicted felon, Barthel Jr. is prohibited from possessing the knife. Barthel Jr. was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of driving under suspension, willful reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person. The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office assisted with this incident.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte man arrested with knife following pursuit

The team at Great Plains Health has found great success with the medicine, Bamlanivimab (BAM) in the fight against COVID-19. Scotty C talks with GPH BAM Administrator Heather Jensen about the drug and the success her team is having with it.

The team at Great Plains Health has found great success with the medicine, Bamlanivimab (BAM) in the fight against COVID-19. Scotty C talks with GPH BAM Administrator Heather Jensen about the drug and the success her team is having with it.<div><iframe title="🎙Post Podcast: Great Plains Health finding success with COVID antibody treatement" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/a6e8s-fc3e59?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

🎙Post Podcast: Great Plains Health finding success with COVID antibody treatment

The NPPS Mobile Food Pantry is tomorrow, March 2nd beginning at 1:00 p.m. and will go until all of the food has been distributed.

The NPPS Mobile Food Pantry is tomorrow, March 2nd beginning at 1:00 p.m. and will go until all of the food has been distributed.Location - North Platte High School<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614609695622.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NPPS Mobile Food Pantry at NPHS tomorrow

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Republicans reprimanded U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse for his work in Washington, D.C., but stopped short of censuring him Saturday for his outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump.

Sasse was one of just seven Republicans who voted last month to convict Trump at his impeachment trial, and he has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2dbe1d8a1e01461e8e4c9975a91f449f" target="_blank">openly critical</a>&nbsp;of Trump, drawing criticism from some Nebraska Republicans who wanted him to be loyal to party candidates.

The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/nebraska-gop-rebukes-sen-ben-sasse-stops-short-of-censure/article_74bd1db0-75ed-11eb-beee-0fd210fd52f8.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported&nbsp;</a>the state GOP's Central Committee approved a resolution Saturday that expresses "deep disappointment and sadness" about Sasse's approach to the job he was just reelected to in November and urges him to represent "the people of Nebraska to Washington and not Washington to the people of Nebraska."

The committee had censured Sasse once before, in March 2016, after he leveled other criticism against then-candidate Trump.

Sasse dismissed the resolution in a statement after the vote.

"There are lots of good people involved in party activism, and I care about them. But most Nebraskans don't think politics should be about the weird worship of one dude," Sasse said.

Several other U.S. senators have also faced criticism from rank-and-file Republicans after last month's impeachment vote. North Carolina Sen. Richard Burr, Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy and Pennsylvania Sen. Pat Toomey have all been rebuked by their respective state parties.

Sasse has said that Nebraska party activists were "hacked off" that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-nebraska-ben-sasse-united-states-b70c84333111797967e21d44e5d6798b" target="_blank">condemned&nbsp;</a>Trump's statements to a crowd just before the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. He also defended his voting record in the Senate as one of the most conservative over the past six years.

In 2019, Sasse toned down his criticism of Trump when he was running for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f13d665b8390496a84f98157748ec223" target="_blank">reelection&nbsp;</a>against a pro-Trump primary challenger. Trump later endorsed Sasse, saying he had done a "wonderful job" representing Nebraska. But a year later, he called on Republicans to replace the senator after Sasse criticized him again.

Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen told his fellow Republicans Saturday that he believes the resolution will be hard for Sasse to brush off and could make it hard for him to run again in the state.

"I don't want this guy living rent-free in my head anymore. Put him in the rear-view mirror," Evnen said.

But others at the state party meeting said they would have preferred a formal censure of Sasse instead of the critical resolution. Carol Friesen, chairwoman of the Lincoln County GOP, said she thinks Republicans in western Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District will be unhappy the state party didn't formally censure Sasse this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564937419455.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Republicans reprimanded U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse for his work in Washington, D.C., but stopped short of censuring him Saturday for his outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump.Sasse was one of just seven Republicans who voted last month to convict Trump at his impeachment trial, and he has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2dbe1d8a1e01461e8e4c9975a91f449f" target="_blank">openly critical</a>&nbsp;of Trump, drawing criticism from some Nebraska Republicans who wanted him to be loyal to party candidates.The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/nebraska-gop-rebukes-sen-ben-sasse-stops-short-of-censure/article_74bd1db0-75ed-11eb-beee-0fd210fd52f8.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported&nbsp;</a>the state GOP's Central Committee approved a resolution Saturday that expresses "deep disappointment and sadness" about Sasse's approach to the job he was just reelected to in November and urges him to represent "the people of Nebraska to Washington and not Washington to the people of Nebraska."The committee had censured Sasse once before, in March 2016, after he leveled other criticism against then-candidate Trump.Sasse dismissed the resolution in a statement after the vote."There are lots of good people involved in party activism, and I care about them. But most Nebraskans don't think politics should be about the weird worship of one dude," Sasse said.Several other U.S. senators have also faced criticism from rank-and-file Republicans after last month's impeachment vote. North Carolina Sen. Richard Burr, Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy and Pennsylvania Sen. Pat Toomey have all been rebuked by their respective state parties.Sasse has said that Nebraska party activists were "hacked off" that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-nebraska-ben-sasse-united-states-b70c84333111797967e21d44e5d6798b" target="_blank">condemned&nbsp;</a>Trump's statements to a crowd just before the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. He also defended his voting record in the Senate as one of the most conservative over the past six years.In 2019, Sasse toned down his criticism of Trump when he was running for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f13d665b8390496a84f98157748ec223" target="_blank">reelection&nbsp;</a>against a pro-Trump primary challenger. Trump later endorsed Sasse, saying he had done a "wonderful job" representing Nebraska. But a year later, he called on Republicans to replace the senator after Sasse criticized him again.Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen told his fellow Republicans Saturday that he believes the resolution will be hard for Sasse to brush off and could make it hard for him to run again in the state."I don't want this guy living rent-free in my head anymore. Put him in the rear-view mirror," Evnen said.But others at the state party meeting said they would have preferred a formal censure of Sasse instead of the critical resolution. Carol Friesen, chairwoman of the Lincoln County GOP, said she thinks Republicans in western Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District will be unhappy the state party didn't formally censure Sasse this time.

Nebraska Sen. Sasse rebuked by state's Republican committee

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — With the floodgates set to open on another round of unemployment aid, states are being hammered with a new wave of fraud as they scramble to update security systems and block scammers who already have siphoned billions of dollars from pandemic-related jobless programs.

The fraud is fleecing taxpayers, delaying legitimate payments and turning thousands of Americans into unwitting identity theft victims. Many states have failed to adequately safeguard their systems, and a review by The Associated Press finds that some will not even publicly acknowledge the extent of the problem.

The massive sham springs from prior identity theft from banks, credit rating agencies, health care systems and retailers. Fraud perpetrators, sometimes in China, Nigeria or Russia, buy stolen personal identifying information on the dark web and use it to flood state unemployment systems with bogus claims.

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating unemployment fraud by “transnational criminal organizations, sophisticated domestic actors, and individuals across the United States,” said Joshua Stueve, a spokesman for the department’s criminal division.

The Labor Department inspector general’s office estimates that more than $63 billion has been paid out improperly through fraud or errors — roughly 10% of the total amount paid under coronavirus pandemic-related unemployment programs since March.

“We’re all learning that there is an epidemic of fraud,” said U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the ranking Republican on the House’s powerful Ways and Means Committee. Brady said the $63 billion estimate “is larger than the entire budget of the Department of Homeland Security.”

“These are frightening levels of fraud,” he said.

California has been the biggest target, with an estimated $11 billion in fraudulent payments and an additional $19 billion in suspect accounts. Colorado has paid out nearly as much to scammers — an estimated $6.5 billion — as it has to people who filed legitimate unemployment claims.

Other estimates, according to AP reporting across the states, range from several hundred thousand dollars in smaller states such as Alaska and Wyoming to hundreds of millions in more populous states such as Massachusetts and Ohio.

The nationwide fraud has fed on twin vulnerabilities: a flood of jobless benefit applications since the pandemic began that has overwhelmed state unemployment agencies and antiquated benefit systems that are easy prey for crafty and persistent criminals.

In Ohio, weekly first-time unemployment claims have ranged from 17,000 to more than 40,000 during the pandemic. But since late last month, those claims have topped more than 140,000 some weeks, with many of them believed to be fraudulent. The state has paid at least $330 million in fraudulent pandemic unemployment benefit claims.

Trying to catch so many bogus claims delays payouts to Ohioans who are legitimately in need of help. In the Columbus suburb of Upper Arlington, Cynthia Sbertoli was receiving $228 a week after she was laid off in March from her job with a nonprofit that runs high school student exchange programs.

Her benefits were put on hold in January after she informed the state that someone had tried to use her identity in a scam to claim benefits. She thought the problem was resolved but has yet to see a renewal of her benefit checks, which she and her husband use to help pay for a son’s vision and auditory therapy.

“It’s just not a good way to take care of people,” said Sbertoli, 49.

In Indiana, Kentucky and Maryland, officials have said that for certain weeks in the new year at least two-thirds of the claims they received were classified as suspicious due to problems verifying identities. It’s not the first brush with serious fraud for Maryland. In July, officials said they’d discovered a massive criminal enterprise that had stolen more than $500 million in unemployment benefits.

Among states that have been hardest hit are those participating in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program adopted by Congress last year. It has been a lifeline for out-of-work freelancers and gig workers who normally don’t qualify for unemployment insurance, but it’s also been a boon for criminals who use stolen identities to make claims. Nearly 800,000 of the 1.4 million claims Ohio has received through this program have been tagged for potential fraud.

Scams have been so widespread that the U.S. Department of Justice is setting aside money to hire more prosecutors. In New York alone, the Department of Labor says it has referred “hundreds of thousands of fraud cases” to federal prosecutors. The state says it has blocked $5.5 billion in fraudulent claims, while New Jersey says it’s prevented $2.5 billion from flowing into the hands of criminals.

Despite those efforts, a government watchdog agency says not enough states are taking the necessary steps to prevent fraud.

In its memo this past week, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General said that by the end of last year, 22 of the 54 state and territorial workforce agencies were still not following its repeated recommendation to join a data exchange run by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.

That system is designed to check Social Security numbers used in claims to see if they are being used in multiple states, or are linked to dead people or other scam methods. The office said it had found $5.4 billion in fraudulent payments from March through October.

The biggest chunk of that, $3.5 billion, came through claims that used the same Social Security numbers in multiple states. One number was used on claims in 40 states. Twenty-nine of the states paid those claims, totaling more than $220,000.

“The Department needs to take immediate action and increase its efforts to ensure (states) implement effective controls to mitigate fraud in these high risk areas,” the inspector general warned Labor officials.

The people whose identities are used to claim improper benefits often don’t find out until they receive their tax statements.

Andrew Heidtke received a letter in September from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development notifying him that unemployment claims he never applied for were being processed.

“I had no idea what was happening,” said Heidtke, who works as an administrative assistant for an engineering lobbying organization. “I kind of just thought it was spam at first.”

Another victim was 99-year-old Harry Hollingsworth of Strongsville, Ohio. The retired elevator car factory worker received a form in late January showing he had received $3,156 in benefits. Hollingsworth died recently, and his son, Jim Hollingsworth, said the bogus claim created a big hassle.

“It looks like the state, they dropped the ball on this completely,” he said.

In its own survey of state governments, the AP found that many are not publicly disclosing the level of fraud. Some officials expressed concern that providing any information, no matter how general, could provide criminals an opening to exploit their systems further.

President Joe Biden’s administration is pledging to cut down on unemployment fraud even as it tries to extend benefits through September. As part of previous legislation, the administration is sending states $200 million to fight it.

That would be welcome in Virginia, where House Minority Leader Todd Gilbert, a Republican, said the Legislature’s watchdog agency should investigate how the state allowed $40 million in bogus payments through prison inmate-related scams.

“How many desperate people, laid off through no fault of their own, could have been helped with that money?” he asked. “It’s maddening.”

Mulvihill reported from Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

Associated Press writers Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia; Todd Richmond in Madison, Wisconsin; and Casey Smith in Indianapolis contributed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561209733269.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — With the floodgates set to open on another round of unemployment aid, states are being hammered with a new wave of fraud as they scramble to update security systems and block scammers who already have siphoned billions of dollars from pandemic-related jobless programs.The fraud is fleecing taxpayers, delaying legitimate payments and turning thousands of Americans into unwitting identity theft victims. Many states have failed to adequately safeguard their systems, and a review by The Associated Press finds that some will not even publicly acknowledge the extent of the problem.The massive sham springs from prior identity theft from banks, credit rating agencies, health care systems and retailers. Fraud perpetrators, sometimes in China, Nigeria or Russia, buy stolen personal identifying information on the dark web and use it to flood state unemployment systems with bogus claims.The U.S. Justice Department is investigating unemployment fraud by “transnational criminal organizations, sophisticated domestic actors, and individuals across the United States,” said Joshua Stueve, a spokesman for the department’s criminal division.The Labor Department inspector general’s office estimates that more than $63 billion has been paid out improperly through fraud or errors — roughly 10% of the total amount paid under coronavirus pandemic-related unemployment programs since March.“We’re all learning that there is an epidemic of fraud,” said U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the ranking Republican on the House’s powerful Ways and Means Committee. Brady said the $63 billion estimate “is larger than the entire budget of the Department of Homeland Security.”“These are frightening levels of fraud,” he said.California has been the biggest target, with an estimated $11 billion in fraudulent payments and an additional $19 billion in suspect accounts. Colorado has paid out nearly as much to scammers — an estimated $6.5 billion — as it has to people who filed legitimate unemployment claims.Other estimates, according to AP reporting across the states, range from several hundred thousand dollars in smaller states such as Alaska and Wyoming to hundreds of millions in more populous states such as Massachusetts and Ohio.The nationwide fraud has fed on twin vulnerabilities: a flood of jobless benefit applications since the pandemic began that has overwhelmed state unemployment agencies and antiquated benefit systems that are easy prey for crafty and persistent criminals.In Ohio, weekly first-time unemployment claims have ranged from 17,000 to more than 40,000 during the pandemic. But since late last month, those claims have topped more than 140,000 some weeks, with many of them believed to be fraudulent. The state has paid at least $330 million in fraudulent pandemic unemployment benefit claims.Trying to catch so many bogus claims delays payouts to Ohioans who are legitimately in need of help. In the Columbus suburb of Upper Arlington, Cynthia Sbertoli was receiving $228 a week after she was laid off in March from her job with a nonprofit that runs high school student exchange programs.Her benefits were put on hold in January after she informed the state that someone had tried to use her identity in a scam to claim benefits. She thought the problem was resolved but has yet to see a renewal of her benefit checks, which she and her husband use to help pay for a son’s vision and auditory therapy.“It’s just not a good way to take care of people,” said Sbertoli, 49.In Indiana, Kentucky and Maryland, officials have said that for certain weeks in the new year at least two-thirds of the claims they received were classified as suspicious due to problems verifying identities. It’s not the first brush with serious fraud for Maryland. In July, officials said they’d discovered a massive criminal enterprise that had stolen more than $500 million in unemployment benefits.Among states that have been hardest hit are those participating in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program adopted by Congress last year. It has been a lifeline for out-of-work freelancers and gig workers who normally don’t qualify for unemployment insurance, but it’s also been a boon for criminals who use stolen identities to make claims. Nearly 800,000 of the 1.4 million claims Ohio has received through this program have been tagged for potential fraud.Scams have been so widespread that the U.S. Department of Justice is setting aside money to hire more prosecutors. In New York alone, the Department of Labor says it has referred “hundreds of thousands of fraud cases” to federal prosecutors. The state says it has blocked $5.5 billion in fraudulent claims, while New Jersey says it’s prevented $2.5 billion from flowing into the hands of criminals.Despite those efforts, a government watchdog agency says not enough states are taking the necessary steps to prevent fraud.In its memo this past week, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General said that by the end of last year, 22 of the 54 state and territorial workforce agencies were still not following its repeated recommendation to join a data exchange run by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.That system is designed to check Social Security numbers used in claims to see if they are being used in multiple states, or are linked to dead people or other scam methods. The office said it had found $5.4 billion in fraudulent payments from March through October.The biggest chunk of that, $3.5 billion, came through claims that used the same Social Security numbers in multiple states. One number was used on claims in 40 states. Twenty-nine of the states paid those claims, totaling more than $220,000.“The Department needs to take immediate action and increase its efforts to ensure (states) implement effective controls to mitigate fraud in these high risk areas,” the inspector general warned Labor officials.The people whose identities are used to claim improper benefits often don’t find out until they receive their tax statements.Andrew Heidtke received a letter in September from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development notifying him that unemployment claims he never applied for were being processed.“I had no idea what was happening,” said Heidtke, who works as an administrative assistant for an engineering lobbying organization. “I kind of just thought it was spam at first.”Another victim was 99-year-old Harry Hollingsworth of Strongsville, Ohio. The retired elevator car factory worker received a form in late January showing he had received $3,156 in benefits. Hollingsworth died recently, and his son, Jim Hollingsworth, said the bogus claim created a big hassle.“It looks like the state, they dropped the ball on this completely,” he said.In its own survey of state governments, the AP found that many are not publicly disclosing the level of fraud. Some officials expressed concern that providing any information, no matter how general, could provide criminals an opening to exploit their systems further.President Joe Biden’s administration is pledging to cut down on unemployment fraud even as it tries to extend benefits through September. As part of previous legislation, the administration is sending states $200 million to fight it.That would be welcome in Virginia, where House Minority Leader Todd Gilbert, a Republican, said the Legislature’s watchdog agency should investigate how the state allowed $40 million in bogus payments through prison inmate-related scams.“How many desperate people, laid off through no fault of their own, could have been helped with that money?” he asked. “It’s maddening.”____Mulvihill reported from Cherry Hill, New Jersey.___Associated Press writers Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia; Todd Richmond in Madison, Wisconsin; and Casey Smith in Indianapolis contributed.

Fraud overwhelms pandemic-related unemployment programs

CUSTER, S.D. (AP) — A compound in South Dakota’s Black Hills that was owned by a secretive polygamous cult has been sold at auction to three former members who broke with the sect years ago. 

Blue Mountain Ranch LLC, representing Patrick Pipkin, Seth Cooke and Andrew Chatwin, paid $750,000 for the Fundamentalist Church of Latter-Day Saints’ sprawling compound at a Custer County sheriff’s auction Thursday. 

The Rapid City Journal reports that Pipkin said he left FLDS about 15 years ago and no longer believes in its teachings. 

He, Cooke and Chatwin successfully sued the FLDS after alleging they were illegally jailed in Arizona by local authorities who were handpicked by the sect, which they say conspired to illegally arrest and prosecute non-members.

CUSTER, S.D. (AP) — A compound in South Dakota’s Black Hills that was owned by a secretive polygamous cult has been sold at auction to three former members who broke with the sect years ago. Blue Mountain Ranch LLC, representing Patrick Pipkin, Seth Cooke and Andrew Chatwin, paid $750,000 for the Fundamentalist Church of Latter-Day Saints’ sprawling compound at a Custer County sheriff’s auction Thursday. The Rapid City Journal reports that Pipkin said he left FLDS about 15 years ago and no longer believes in its teachings. He, Cooke and Chatwin successfully sued the FLDS after alleging they were illegally jailed in Arizona by local authorities who were handpicked by the sect, which they say conspired to illegally arrest and prosecute non-members.

Members who broke with polygamous cult buy former Black Hills compound

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured after an accident while ice fishing in northwest Kansas.

On Saturday, two ice fisherman were fishing together on Keith Sebelius Reservoir near Norton, according to a social media report from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Game Wardens.

 One man fell through the ice near a pressure ridge and could not get up. He stayed afloat by holding on to his sled while help arrived. His partner called 911 and friends for help. 

A Game Warden with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism and two friends of the fisherman arrived on scene. Through their efforts and quick action, the man was safely rescued from poor ice conditions. 

EMS was on scene and transported the man to the Norton County Hospital. 

Wardens&nbsp; thanked those who responded, including Game Warden, Park Manager, and Park Ranger from KDWPT; Norton County EMS; Norton County Sheriff’s Department; and multiple friends and sportsman who dropped what they were doing and helped.

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured after an accident while ice fishing in northwest Kansas.On Saturday, two ice fisherman were fishing together on Keith Sebelius Reservoir near Norton, according to a social media report from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Game Wardens. One man fell through the ice near a pressure ridge and could not get up. He stayed afloat by holding on to his sled while help arrived. His partner called 911 and friends for help. A Game Warden with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism and two friends of the fisherman arrived on scene. Through their efforts and quick action, the man was safely rescued from poor ice conditions. EMS was on scene and transported the man to the Norton County Hospital. Wardens&nbsp; thanked those who responded, including Game Warden, Park Manager, and Park Ranger from KDWPT; Norton County EMS; Norton County Sheriff’s Department; and multiple friends and sportsman who dropped what they were doing and helped.

Kansas game warden helps rescue ice fisherman 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska health officials said Saturday they have found the first known cases in the state of a California variant of COVID-19.

The Department of Health and Human Services said in a news release that the variant has been identified by the Nebraska Public Health Lab in 13 cases in four different jurisdictions of the state.

Nine cases were identified in Douglas County, two in the Public Health Solutions district (which includes Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline and Thayer counties), one in the East Central district (Boone, Colfax, Nance and Platte counties), and one in Lancaster County.

This particular variant strain was first identified in California and more recently has spread to multiple states, health officials said. Less is known about the California variant than other variants, but it is likely more easily transmitted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612437418456.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska health officials said Saturday they have found the first known cases in the state of a California variant of COVID-19.The Department of Health and Human Services said in a news release that the variant has been identified by the Nebraska Public Health Lab in 13 cases in four different jurisdictions of the state.Nine cases were identified in Douglas County, two in the Public Health Solutions district (which includes Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline and Thayer counties), one in the East Central district (Boone, Colfax, Nance and Platte counties), and one in Lancaster County.This particular variant strain was first identified in California and more recently has spread to multiple states, health officials said. Less is known about the California variant than other variants, but it is likely more easily transmitted.

First known cases of California variant found in Nebraska

The Nebraska School Activities Association has released the brackets for the 2021 Girl's State Basketball Tournament.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610735253363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Nebraska School Activities Association has released the brackets for the 2021 Girl's State Basketball Tournament.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614453247525.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NSAA releases Girl's State Basketball brackets; Lady Dawgs face Fremont in first round

2.27.2021 DISTRICT Basketball NPHS Boys @ Lincoln North Star - LIVESTREAM

News Release NP Area Habitat for Humanity


For all those creative builders out there North Platte Area Habitat
for Humanity encourages you to gather your building blocks and get
ready for the second annual Habitat Build Competition. The idea
behind the competition is to get families together to create, or
build, a house using building blocks.

Those
interested in competing are encouraged to submit up to four photos of
their family and their build creation to the Habitat offices for the
chance at one of three amazing prizes.

First,
second and third place winners will be able to select from one of
three family-oriented prizes from North Platte businesses. Dusty
Trails is donating a family trail ride or tanking trip. The Vault is
contributing a family escape room experience
and Game on Games has provided a
Jurassic World Lego set. Prize sponsors will also serve as judges for
this unique competition. 


The
timing of the event is meant to provide a little relief from the
winter doldrums and give families a great opportunity spend time
together on a fun project. 


“Based
on last year’s competition the judges will really have their work
cut out for them,” said Dalene Skates, Executive Director for North
Platte Area Habitat for Humanity. The reason we decided to host a
second competition is because of the level of creativity we saw last
year. We are really looking forward to seeing this year’s entries.”

If
you’d like to participate in the North Platte Area Habitat for
Humanity Build Contest head over to their Facebook page at
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/npahfh">www.facebook.com/npahfh</a>
for all the rules then get building! Entries will be taken beginning
March 1st through March 15th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614376189767.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release NP Area Habitat for Humanity
For all those creative builders out there North Platte Area Habitat
for Humanity encourages you to gather your building blocks and get
ready for the second annual Habitat Build Competition. The idea
behind the competition is to get families together to create, or
build, a house using building blocks.Those
interested in competing are encouraged to submit up to four photos of
their family and their build creation to the Habitat offices for the
chance at one of three amazing prizes.First,
second and third place winners will be able to select from one of
three family-oriented prizes from North Platte businesses. Dusty
Trails is donating a family trail ride or tanking trip. The Vault is
contributing a family escape room experience
and Game on Games has provided a
Jurassic World Lego set. Prize sponsors will also serve as judges for
this unique competition. 
The
timing of the event is meant to provide a little relief from the
winter doldrums and give families a great opportunity spend time
together on a fun project. 
“Based
on last year’s competition the judges will really have their work
cut out for them,” said Dalene Skates, Executive Director for North
Platte Area Habitat for Humanity. The reason we decided to host a
second competition is because of the level of creativity we saw last
year. We are really looking forward to seeing this year’s entries.”If
you’d like to participate in the North Platte Area Habitat for
Humanity Build Contest head over to their Facebook page at
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/npahfh">www.facebook.com/npahfh</a>
for all the rules then get building! Entries will be taken beginning
March 1st through March 15th.

Habitat for Humanity hosting 2nd annual 'Build Competition'

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is now expected to collect an additional $204 million in the current fiscal year, according to new projections approved Friday.

The Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board estimated that state revenue will come in roughly 4% higher than previous projections.

The board also raised its revenue forecast by $165 million for the next fiscal year that starts July 1 and $93 million for the following fiscal year. The board's decisions determines how much money is available to state lawmakers.

In a statement, Gov. Pete Ricketts said the increased forecast gives the state the opportunity to reduce property taxes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608825634004.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is now expected to collect an additional $204 million in the current fiscal year, according to new projections approved Friday.The Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board estimated that state revenue will come in roughly 4% higher than previous projections.The board also raised its revenue forecast by $165 million for the next fiscal year that starts July 1 and $93 million for the following fiscal year. The board's decisions determines how much money is available to state lawmakers.In a statement, Gov. Pete Ricketts said the increased forecast gives the state the opportunity to reduce property taxes.

Nebraska forecasting board raises revenue projections

SMITH COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Smith County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Ardath Nix, 64, Phillipsburg, was southbound on Kansas 8 five miles north of Athol.

The pickup left the roadway, entered the west ditch and struck a large tree.&nbsp;

Nix was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Olliff-Boevie Memorial Chapel. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the. KHP.

SMITH COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Smith County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Ardath Nix, 64, Phillipsburg, was southbound on Kansas 8 five miles north of Athol.The pickup left the roadway, entered the west ditch and struck a large tree.&nbsp;Nix was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Olliff-Boevie Memorial Chapel. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the. KHP.

Phillipsburg man dies after pickup strikes a tree

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed the first known case of the U.K. variant of COVID-19, known as B.1.1.7 (B-117) in the state. The individual is a woman in her 20s and is a resident of Douglas County.&nbsp;

Dr. Gary Anthone Chief Medical Officer said, “The state has long stated that we suspected these new variants of this virus were circulating in Nebraska and we have been vigilant in our genomic sequencing efforts to quickly identify new variants to slow the spread. Masking, distancing, and getting vaccinated remain our best defenses against these new variants"

This particular variant has been found in 45 other states and is more easily transmitted, but both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have shown effective against it. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine which is expected to be approved soon has also been proven effective against B-117.

Case investigation and contact tracing began within 24 hours of the positive laboratory test and is ongoing.

Nebraska's top goal remains protecting hospital capacity.&nbsp;The efforts undertaken by the state over the course of the emergency have resulted in significantly lower hospitalizations as compared to the last several months.&nbsp;

As of Feb.25 over 222,000 Nebraskans have registered to receive the vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="https://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;Those interested in registering will need to provide name and contact information, date of birth and answer health questions used to help determine priority group eligibility. Any information entered is strictly confidential and used solely for this purpose. Friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to assist others with vaccine sign-up if needed. The DHHS Information line can assist those with limited technology, language or Internet access, and is available by calling 531-249-1873 or 833-998-2275.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582725655069.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska DHHSThe Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed the first known case of the U.K. variant of COVID-19, known as B.1.1.7 (B-117) in the state. The individual is a woman in her 20s and is a resident of Douglas County.&nbsp;Dr. Gary Anthone Chief Medical Officer said, “The state has long stated that we suspected these new variants of this virus were circulating in Nebraska and we have been vigilant in our genomic sequencing efforts to quickly identify new variants to slow the spread. Masking, distancing, and getting vaccinated remain our best defenses against these new variants"This particular variant has been found in 45 other states and is more easily transmitted, but both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have shown effective against it. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine which is expected to be approved soon has also been proven effective against B-117.Case investigation and contact tracing began within 24 hours of the positive laboratory test and is ongoing.Nebraska's top goal remains protecting hospital capacity.&nbsp;The efforts undertaken by the state over the course of the emergency have resulted in significantly lower hospitalizations as compared to the last several months.&nbsp;As of Feb.25 over 222,000 Nebraskans have registered to receive the vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="https://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;Those interested in registering will need to provide name and contact information, date of birth and answer health questions used to help determine priority group eligibility. Any information entered is strictly confidential and used solely for this purpose. Friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to assist others with vaccine sign-up if needed. The DHHS Information line can assist those with limited technology, language or Internet access, and is available by calling 531-249-1873 or 833-998-2275.

First case of UK variant of COVID-19 identified in Nebraska

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials expect to release a plan in the next two weeks for vaccinating residents with underlying health conditions after they were removed from the high-priority group of senior citizens that are eligible for a coronavirus vaccine right now, the state's chief medical officer said Friday.

Dr. Gary Anthone said the plan will likely give priority to people on dialysis, who have lung problems or whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients and recent organ transplant recipients.

"Those are the top three that we're considering right now," Anthone said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "Obviously, there's a lot more than in that, but those are the ones we'd probably focus on first."

Ricketts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-2668c4173fcc9185dcdfe42b4a1badae" target="_blank">faced criticism</a>&nbsp;after state officials changed their vaccination plan to exclude people with underlying conditions from the current phase of eligibility so they could focus on residents who are at least 65 years old.

He has defended the decision, noting that people who are 65 and older account for a large majority of coronavirus deaths in Nebraska and many of them also have health conditions. As of Thursday night, that group made up 1,727 of the state's 2,078 COVID-19 deaths, or more than 83% of them.

Anthone said state officials need a few weeks to determine how to prioritize and contact patients, and where they'll be able to get vaccinated.

He said he doesn't know when people with underlying health conditions will actually qualify because health providers are still working their way through the current group of older residents. State officials have predicted that vaccinations might be available to the general public by late April or May.

The state has ordered public health districts and retail pharmacies to give at least 90% of their doses to the 65-and-older group, while leaving 10% up to local discretion. The first vaccination phase that focused on health care workers ended several weeks ago.

Nebraska has confirmed 200,403 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal. The number of people hospitalized with the virus has continued to decline since the record highs of mid-November, with 166 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of Thursday evening.

Anthone said hospitalizations are likely dropping for a combination of reasons, including that some people have been vaccinated and more people have developed natural resistance after recovering from the disease.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568903138747.png" alt="CREDIT STEVEN DEPOLO / FLICKR--CC" />
 <figcaption>CREDIT STEVEN DEPOLO / FLICKR--CC</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials expect to release a plan in the next two weeks for vaccinating residents with underlying health conditions after they were removed from the high-priority group of senior citizens that are eligible for a coronavirus vaccine right now, the state's chief medical officer said Friday.Dr. Gary Anthone said the plan will likely give priority to people on dialysis, who have lung problems or whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients and recent organ transplant recipients."Those are the top three that we're considering right now," Anthone said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "Obviously, there's a lot more than in that, but those are the ones we'd probably focus on first."Ricketts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-2668c4173fcc9185dcdfe42b4a1badae" target="_blank">faced criticism</a>&nbsp;after state officials changed their vaccination plan to exclude people with underlying conditions from the current phase of eligibility so they could focus on residents who are at least 65 years old.He has defended the decision, noting that people who are 65 and older account for a large majority of coronavirus deaths in Nebraska and many of them also have health conditions. As of Thursday night, that group made up 1,727 of the state's 2,078 COVID-19 deaths, or more than 83% of them.Anthone said state officials need a few weeks to determine how to prioritize and contact patients, and where they'll be able to get vaccinated.He said he doesn't know when people with underlying health conditions will actually qualify because health providers are still working their way through the current group of older residents. State officials have predicted that vaccinations might be available to the general public by late April or May.The state has ordered public health districts and retail pharmacies to give at least 90% of their doses to the 65-and-older group, while leaving 10% up to local discretion. The first vaccination phase that focused on health care workers ended several weeks ago.Nebraska has confirmed 200,403 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal. The number of people hospitalized with the virus has continued to decline since the record highs of mid-November, with 166 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of Thursday evening.Anthone said hospitalizations are likely dropping for a combination of reasons, including that some people have been vaccinated and more people have developed natural resistance after recovering from the disease.

Nebraska vaccine plan to prioritize certain ailments

Matthew Dustin Keady, 27, North Platte and Kelsey Corin Hanson, 28, North Platte

Dallas Charles Wilson, 35, North Platte and Kelsey Marie, Benzel, 28, North Platte

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610804551420.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Published February 26, 2021Matthew Dustin Keady, 27, North Platte and Kelsey Corin Hanson, 28, North PlatteDallas Charles Wilson, 35, North Platte and Kelsey Marie, Benzel, 28, North Platte

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A group that advocates for low-income residents said Friday that it has asked a judge to strike down Nebraska's two-tiered Medicaid expansion system that imposes extra requirements to qualify for dental, vision, and over-the-counter drug coverage.

Nebraska Appleseed filed the lawsuit Thursday against the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and its top administrators.

The lawsuit alleges that agency officials exceeded their legal authority when they created a two-tiered system comprised of a "basic" plan that covers physical and behavioral health care services and a "prime" plan that also includes dental, vision and over-the-counter drug coverage. The two-tiered system only applies to people who qualify for expanded coverage, not those who received benefits through the traditional Medicaid program.

"Medicaid expansion must include access to crucial health care services like dental, vision, and over-the-counter drug coverage for all enrollees without barriers," said Sarah Maresh, an attorney for the group.

To qualify for prime coverage, recipients must meet work or volunteer requirements or participate in educational or job-training programs. They also have to meet with a health care provider for a wellness assessment.

Voters expanded Medicaid through a 2018 ballot measure, but state officials have been slower than other expansion states to implement its requirements. Activists placed it on the ballot after years of failed attempts to expand Medicaid in the Republican-dominated Legislature and strong opposition from the state's GOP governors.

The ballot measure extended coverage to able-bodied, working-age adults who earn too much to qualify for regular Medicaid but too little to be eligible for tax credits to help them buy health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.

Officials with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services didn't immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

The lawsuit was filed the same day that state officials said that their plans to offer prime benefits starting April 1 had been put on hold because federal officials tasked with reviewing them raised concerns.

Officials under Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts had planned to require that recipients meet "wellness and personal responsibility" goals to qualify for those benefits.

State Medicaid Director Kevin Bagley told a legislative committee Thursday that President Joe Biden's administration objected to the plan and wasn't likely to approve it in time for the rollout.

"The reality is, any direction we take at this point probably adds months to the implementation," Bagley testified before the Legislature's Appropriations Committee.

In a news release, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said it had submitted all the necessary information for federal approval and blamed the delay on federal officials. Supporters of Medicaid expansion have countered that the process wouldn't have been slowed down if state officials had simply approved the expansion without imposing additional requirements on recipients.

Some pro-expansion advocates contend that state officials have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ad6a5d4d307d4459849be1b2166dc5e6" target="_blank">dragging their feet</a>&nbsp;on the expansion effort because Ricketts vehemently opposes it. State officials have disputed that assertion, saying they wanted to take the time to launch the program without any hiccups.

Expanded Medicaid recipients will still qualify for basic coverage, including check-ups and behavioral health services.

Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614375172943.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A group that advocates for low-income residents said Friday that it has asked a judge to strike down Nebraska's two-tiered Medicaid expansion system that imposes extra requirements to qualify for dental, vision, and over-the-counter drug coverage.Nebraska Appleseed filed the lawsuit Thursday against the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and its top administrators.The lawsuit alleges that agency officials exceeded their legal authority when they created a two-tiered system comprised of a "basic" plan that covers physical and behavioral health care services and a "prime" plan that also includes dental, vision and over-the-counter drug coverage. The two-tiered system only applies to people who qualify for expanded coverage, not those who received benefits through the traditional Medicaid program."Medicaid expansion must include access to crucial health care services like dental, vision, and over-the-counter drug coverage for all enrollees without barriers," said Sarah Maresh, an attorney for the group.To qualify for prime coverage, recipients must meet work or volunteer requirements or participate in educational or job-training programs. They also have to meet with a health care provider for a wellness assessment.Voters expanded Medicaid through a 2018 ballot measure, but state officials have been slower than other expansion states to implement its requirements. Activists placed it on the ballot after years of failed attempts to expand Medicaid in the Republican-dominated Legislature and strong opposition from the state's GOP governors.The ballot measure extended coverage to able-bodied, working-age adults who earn too much to qualify for regular Medicaid but too little to be eligible for tax credits to help them buy health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.Officials with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services didn't immediately respond to a message seeking comment.The lawsuit was filed the same day that state officials said that their plans to offer prime benefits starting April 1 had been put on hold because federal officials tasked with reviewing them raised concerns.Officials under Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts had planned to require that recipients meet "wellness and personal responsibility" goals to qualify for those benefits.State Medicaid Director Kevin Bagley told a legislative committee Thursday that President Joe Biden's administration objected to the plan and wasn't likely to approve it in time for the rollout."The reality is, any direction we take at this point probably adds months to the implementation," Bagley testified before the Legislature's Appropriations Committee.In a news release, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said it had submitted all the necessary information for federal approval and blamed the delay on federal officials. Supporters of Medicaid expansion have countered that the process wouldn't have been slowed down if state officials had simply approved the expansion without imposing additional requirements on recipients.Some pro-expansion advocates contend that state officials have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ad6a5d4d307d4459849be1b2166dc5e6" target="_blank">dragging their feet</a>&nbsp;on the expansion effort because Ricketts vehemently opposes it. State officials have disputed that assertion, saying they wanted to take the time to launch the program without any hiccups.Expanded Medicaid recipients will still qualify for basic coverage, including check-ups and behavioral health services.___Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte</a>

Advocacy group sues Nebraska over two-tiered Medicaid plan


On
February 26, 2021 at approximately 12:07 a.m., officers of the
Kearney Police Department, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, and
Good Samaritan EMS responded to a car / train collision in the area
of West Railroad Street and 9th Avenue in Central Kearney. Responding
Officers located a stopped eastbound Union Pacific train and a
passenger car with extensive damage. The driver of the vehicle was
identified as twenty-one-year-old Gonzalo Ornelas-Calderon of
Kearney. 

A preliminary investigation indicated Ornelas-Calderon was
southbound on 9th Avenue, crossed West Railroad Street, drove the
vehicle through the intersection onto Union Pacific restricted
property and high centered the vehicle on the railroad tracks
becoming stuck. 

Ornelas-Calderon exited the vehicle prior to the
eastbound train hitting the vehicle. There were no injuries reported
as a result of the crash. Ornelas-Calderon was arrested and booked
into Buffalo County Jail for DUI after submitting to a breath test
revealing a blood alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit.


“We
are once again reminded of the danger involved with Driving While
Intoxicated and entering restricted railroad property. We are
thankful no one was injured to include Union Pacific Railroad staff
and engineers operating the train,” said Bryan D. Waugh, Chief of
Police.


Union
Pacific Railroad Police are assisting with further investigation
related to property damage and trespassing on railroad property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565131813378.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Kearney Police
On
February 26, 2021 at approximately 12:07 a.m., officers of the
Kearney Police Department, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, and
Good Samaritan EMS responded to a car / train collision in the area
of West Railroad Street and 9th Avenue in Central Kearney. Responding
Officers located a stopped eastbound Union Pacific train and a
passenger car with extensive damage. The driver of the vehicle was
identified as twenty-one-year-old Gonzalo Ornelas-Calderon of
Kearney. A preliminary investigation indicated Ornelas-Calderon was
southbound on 9th Avenue, crossed West Railroad Street, drove the
vehicle through the intersection onto Union Pacific restricted
property and high centered the vehicle on the railroad tracks
becoming stuck. Ornelas-Calderon exited the vehicle prior to the
eastbound train hitting the vehicle. There were no injuries reported
as a result of the crash. Ornelas-Calderon was arrested and booked
into Buffalo County Jail for DUI after submitting to a breath test
revealing a blood alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit.
“We
are once again reminded of the danger involved with Driving While
Intoxicated and entering restricted railroad property. We are
thankful no one was injured to include Union Pacific Railroad staff
and engineers operating the train,” said Bryan D. Waugh, Chief of
Police.
Union
Pacific Railroad Police are assisting with further investigation
related to property damage and trespassing on railroad property.

Kearney police investigate car-train collision, alcohol suspected

McCOOK, Neb. (AP) - A caseworker has been arrested on suspicion of having unauthorized contact with an inmate at the Nebraska Work Ethic Camp in McCook, state prisons officials said.

Kerstan Slater, 29, was arrested Thursday by the Nebraska State Patrol, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release. Slater, who has worked for the department since 2018, resigned her position upon being arrested, the release said. Details of the alleged unauthorized contact were not released.

Slater's is the latest in a slew of prison staffer arrests in recent weeks for similar charges. Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes expressed frustration with the arrests.

"From the moment staff members are brought on board NDCS, we warn them of the need to maintain professional boundaries," Frakes said in a written statement. "This is not frivolous advice. It is imperative for their own personal safety, not to mention the impact these types of actions can have on their careers."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579101364118.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>McCOOK, Neb. (AP) - A caseworker has been arrested on suspicion of having unauthorized contact with an inmate at the Nebraska Work Ethic Camp in McCook, state prisons officials said.Kerstan Slater, 29, was arrested Thursday by the Nebraska State Patrol, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release. Slater, who has worked for the department since 2018, resigned her position upon being arrested, the release said. Details of the alleged unauthorized contact were not released.Slater's is the latest in a slew of prison staffer arrests in recent weeks for similar charges. Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes expressed frustration with the arrests."From the moment staff members are brought on board NDCS, we warn them of the need to maintain professional boundaries," Frakes said in a written statement. "This is not frivolous advice. It is imperative for their own personal safety, not to mention the impact these types of actions can have on their careers."

Nebraska caseworker arrested, accused of inmate contact

There has been a lot of buzz around town about the most recent episode of the I Love Public Schools documentary "The Mind Inside" that features several North Platte Public Schools employees.

The North Platte Public Schools Foundation and I Love Public Schools will be hosting an online Watch Party of the documentary, which features Student Services Director Brandy Buscher and School Resource Officer Jeremiah Johnson,&nbsp; this Sunday, February 28, from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm.

There will be no charge for the screening, but those wishing to attend are asked to <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-mind-inside-episode-3-north-platte-community-film-screening-registration-141062673253?mc_eid=UNIQID&amp;mc_cid=3de3022e48">RSVP</a>. Donations to the North Platte Public Schools Foundation will also be accepted.

In addition to screening the film, the crew and cast of the film will be chatting live with attendees.

Episode 3, which features Buscher and Johnson, follows them as they "advocate for vulnerable children and families, offering hope for the future."

The filmmakers say the&nbsp;documentary reveals how inherited trauma, generational poverty, drug abuse, neglect, and other home dynamics complicate the path to academic success and impact the greater community.

The episode is streaming now on the <a href="https://iloveps.org/films/the-mind-inside-episode-three">I Love Public Schools Website </a>for free.

By Scott Carlson-NP PostThere has been a lot of buzz around town about the most recent episode of the I Love Public Schools documentary "The Mind Inside" that features several North Platte Public Schools employees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614358891644.png" alt="Officer Jeremiah Johnson (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Officer Jeremiah Johnson (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>The North Platte Public Schools Foundation and I Love Public Schools will be hosting an online Watch Party of the documentary, which features Student Services Director Brandy Buscher and School Resource Officer Jeremiah Johnson,&nbsp; this Sunday, February 28, from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm.There will be no charge for the screening, but those wishing to attend are asked to <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-mind-inside-episode-3-north-platte-community-film-screening-registration-141062673253?mc_eid=UNIQID&amp;mc_cid=3de3022e48">RSVP</a>. Donations to the North Platte Public Schools Foundation will also be accepted.In addition to screening the film, the crew and cast of the film will be chatting live with attendees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614358914841.png" alt="Brandy Buscher (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Brandy Buscher (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Episode 3, which features Buscher and Johnson, follows them as they "advocate for vulnerable children and families, offering hope for the future."The filmmakers say the&nbsp;documentary reveals how inherited trauma, generational poverty, drug abuse, neglect, and other home dynamics complicate the path to academic success and impact the greater community.The episode is streaming now on the <a href="https://iloveps.org/films/the-mind-inside-episode-three">I Love Public Schools Website </a>for free.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614359253905.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Watch Party planned for film featuring North Platte Public Schools employees

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraskans who qualify for Medicaid under the expansion measure approved by voters in 2018 won't be getting vision, dental or over-the-counter medication benefits anytime soon.

State officials said Thursday that their plans to offer those benefits starting April 1 have been put on hold after federal officials tasked with reviewing them raised concerns.

State Medicaid Director Kevin Bagley told a legislative committee Thursday that President Joe Biden's administration objected to the plan and isn't likely to approve it in time for the rollout.

"The reality is, any direction we take at this point probably adds months to the implementation," Bagley said in testimony to the Legislature's Appropriations Committee.

In a press release, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said it has submitted all the necessary information for federal approval and blamed the delay on federal officials. Supporters of Medicaid expansion have countered that the process wouldn't have been slowed down if state officials had simply approved the expansion without imposing additional requirements on recipients.

Some pro-expansion advocates have said state officials are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ad6a5d4d307d4459849be1b2166dc5e6" target="_blank">dragging their feet</a>&nbsp;on the expansion effort because Ricketts vehemently opposed it. State officials have disputed that criticism, saying they wanted to take the time to launch the program without any hiccups.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561317918072.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraskans who qualify for Medicaid under the expansion measure approved by voters in 2018 won't be getting vision, dental or over-the-counter medication benefits anytime soon.State officials said Thursday that their plans to offer those benefits starting April 1 have been put on hold after federal officials tasked with reviewing them raised concerns.Officials under Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts had planned to require that recipients meet "wellness and personal responsibility" goals to qualify for those benefits.State Medicaid Director Kevin Bagley told a legislative committee Thursday that President Joe Biden's administration objected to the plan and isn't likely to approve it in time for the rollout."The reality is, any direction we take at this point probably adds months to the implementation," Bagley said in testimony to the Legislature's Appropriations Committee.In a press release, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said it has submitted all the necessary information for federal approval and blamed the delay on federal officials. Supporters of Medicaid expansion have countered that the process wouldn't have been slowed down if state officials had simply approved the expansion without imposing additional requirements on recipients.Some pro-expansion advocates have said state officials are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ad6a5d4d307d4459849be1b2166dc5e6" target="_blank">dragging their feet</a>&nbsp;on the expansion effort because Ricketts vehemently opposed it. State officials have disputed that criticism, saying they wanted to take the time to launch the program without any hiccups.Expanded Medicaid recipients will still qualify for basic coverage, including check-ups and behavioral health services.

Some Nebraska Medicaid expansion benefits put on hold

Lincoln – For an initial group of inmates at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP), it is moving day. Around one dozen men are relocating to a newly built 100-bed dormitory. In addition to sleeping quarters and a large day area, the minimum-security unit also boasts additional rooms to provide clinical treatment and other programs. Eventually, additional occupants will move in.&nbsp;

“This building will not increase the number of inmates that we accommodate at the penitentiary, but it will allow us to free up space in other housing units,” said Scott R. Frakes, director, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS).

“The addition of this housing unit provides us with a space that is ADA design compliant and equipped with the latest technology for staff members to work in and where inmates live,” added NSP Warden, Michele Wilhelm.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

It has been more than 20 years since housing has been expanded at NSP.&nbsp; Two 100-bed dormitory units were added back in 1998.&nbsp; Funding for the new housing unit was covered, in part, from savings realized during the construction of the 160-bed female living unit at the Community Corrections Center-Lincoln (CCC-L).

“The potential for further expansion on the penitentiary campus is limited,” stated Dir. Frakes. “That is part of the reason for putting forth the proposal to build a new, multi-custody level corrections facility. It will be challenging for NSP to attain five more years of use as a high-security facility. We can spend nearly $200 million to completely renovate NSP or repurpose it, in conjunction with building a newer facility.”

Lincoln – For an initial group of inmates at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP), it is moving day. Around one dozen men are relocating to a newly built 100-bed dormitory. In addition to sleeping quarters and a large day area, the minimum-security unit also boasts additional rooms to provide clinical treatment and other programs. Eventually, additional occupants will move in.&nbsp;“This building will not increase the number of inmates that we accommodate at the penitentiary, but it will allow us to free up space in other housing units,” said Scott R. Frakes, director, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS).“The addition of this housing unit provides us with a space that is ADA design compliant and equipped with the latest technology for staff members to work in and where inmates live,” added NSP Warden, Michele Wilhelm.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It has been more than 20 years since housing has been expanded at NSP.&nbsp; Two 100-bed dormitory units were added back in 1998.&nbsp; Funding for the new housing unit was covered, in part, from savings realized during the construction of the 160-bed female living unit at the Community Corrections Center-Lincoln (CCC-L).“The potential for further expansion on the penitentiary campus is limited,” stated Dir. Frakes. “That is part of the reason for putting forth the proposal to build a new, multi-custody level corrections facility. It will be challenging for NSP to attain five more years of use as a high-security facility. We can spend nearly $200 million to completely renovate NSP or repurpose it, in conjunction with building a newer facility.”

New 100-bed minimum-security dorm opens at NSP

The second round of eight-week spring classes will begin March 8 at Mid-Plains Community College. Students are encouraged to sign up early for any they are planning to take.

On-site, online, distance learning and Sunday College formats are all available. Mid-Plains also has a dual credit program that allows high school students to take classes that count toward both high school and college credits at the same time. A list of available courses can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/course-schedules" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/course-schedules</a>.

First time students can submit an admissions application online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/become-a-student/admissions" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/become-a-student/admissions</a>. It’s also recommended that those interested in registering make an appointment with an advisor first by calling (308) 535-3701 in North Platte or (308) 345-8110 in McCook.

MPCC provides numerous scholarships, grants and loans to qualified students. More information about financial assistance is available at (308) 535-3705 in North Platte, or (308) 345-8111 in McCook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614350520625.png" alt="Students participate in a distance learning class through Mid-Plains Community College. MPCC’s second round of spring classes will begin March 8." />
 <figcaption>Students participate in a distance learning class through Mid-Plains Community College. MPCC’s second round of spring classes will begin March 8.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCThe second round of eight-week spring classes will begin March 8 at Mid-Plains Community College. Students are encouraged to sign up early for any they are planning to take.On-site, online, distance learning and Sunday College formats are all available. Mid-Plains also has a dual credit program that allows high school students to take classes that count toward both high school and college credits at the same time. A list of available courses can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/course-schedules" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/course-schedules</a>.First time students can submit an admissions application online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/become-a-student/admissions" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/become-a-student/admissions</a>. It’s also recommended that those interested in registering make an appointment with an advisor first by calling (308) 535-3701 in North Platte or (308) 345-8110 in McCook.MPCC provides numerous scholarships, grants and loans to qualified students. More information about financial assistance is available at (308) 535-3705 in North Platte, or (308) 345-8111 in McCook.

Second round of MPCC spring classes begins March 8

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Members of the South Dakota House and Senate took turns deflating marijuana supporters on the same day. 

One body on Thursday approved a plan to delay implementation of medical cannabis and the other killed a bill that would have decriminalized the drug. 

The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports that the House pushed forward on Gov. Kristi Noem’s idea to give the Department of Health additional time to work on a medical marijuana strategy and create a working group of lawmakers to help lay out the program. 

The Senate defeated a bill that would have changed existing statute so people who possess small amounts of cannabis are no longer arrested in South Dakota.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Members of the South Dakota House and Senate took turns deflating marijuana supporters on the same day. One body on Thursday approved a plan to delay implementation of medical cannabis and the other killed a bill that would have decriminalized the drug. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports that the House pushed forward on Gov. Kristi Noem’s idea to give the Department of Health additional time to work on a medical marijuana strategy and create a working group of lawmakers to help lay out the program. Noem wanted a year delay. The House settled on six months. The Senate defeated a bill that would have changed existing statute so people who possess small amounts of cannabis are no longer arrested in South Dakota.

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