The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has reported another drop on the COVID-19 Community Risk Dial.


The risk dial moved from a 2.69 down to a 2.54, which remains in the
elevated risk level. There were changes in the following variables
that contributed to movement in the dial:

WCDHD reported a decrease in the following: 


WCDHD reported an increase in the following: 


The COVID-19 Risk Dial contains
recommended guidance to help prevent and control the spread of
COVID-19.

While in the Elevated Risk category, WCDHD reccomends a physical distance of 6 feet or greater, wearing face coverings when
outside the home, frequent handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer),
staying home if you are having flu-like or COVID-like symptoms,
disinfecting high touch surfaces, and having at-risk and vulnerable
people remain home are recommended as the greatest tools in reducing
the spread of COVID-19. For more information on recommendations for
the various risk categories of the WCDHD Community Risk Dial, please
visit the COVID-19 Risk Dial page on our website.

There have been 44 cases of COVID-19
for the time period of February 17-23, 2021. 

As a reminder, WCDHD
will be posting a COVID-19 case number update every Thursday with the
risk dial update. 


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614343070998.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostThe West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has reported another drop on the COVID-19 Community Risk Dial.
The risk dial moved from a 2.69 down to a 2.54, which remains in the
elevated risk level. There were changes in the following variables
that contributed to movement in the dial:WCDHD reported a decrease in the following: 
<ul>
 <li>Measure ID R1: Positivity Rate
	(Weekly)
	</li><li>Measure ID R4: Average Daily
	Hospitalizations
	</li><li>Measure ID R11: Individuals
	Affected
</li>
 </ul>WCDHD reported an increase in the following: 
<ul>
 <li>Measure ID R12: Medical &amp;
	Surgical Beds
</li>
 </ul>The COVID-19 Risk Dial contains
recommended guidance to help prevent and control the spread of
COVID-19.While in the Elevated Risk category, WCDHD reccomends a physical distance of 6 feet or greater, wearing face coverings when
outside the home, frequent handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer),
staying home if you are having flu-like or COVID-like symptoms,
disinfecting high touch surfaces, and having at-risk and vulnerable
people remain home are recommended as the greatest tools in reducing
the spread of COVID-19. For more information on recommendations for
the various risk categories of the WCDHD Community Risk Dial, please
visit the COVID-19 Risk Dial page on our website.There have been 44 cases of COVID-19
for the time period of February 17-23, 2021. As a reminder, WCDHD
will be posting a COVID-19 case number update every Thursday with the
risk dial update. 
View the Community Risk Dial HEREView the WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard HERE

WCDHD Community Risk Dial drops again, remains Elevated 

News Release Governor Ricketts Office

Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement urging President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to heighten transparency for international education partnerships.&nbsp; Governor Ricketts’ statement follows recent news that the Biden Administration has withdrawn a rule requiring educational institutions to disclose foreign ties.

“Nebraska has taken proactive steps to ensure that foreign governments do not exert undue influence on our education system,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Former President Trump put in place important new requirements to ensure that colleges and universities disclosed relationships with Confucius Institutes, which have a history of promoting Chinese Communist Party propaganda.&nbsp; It is critical the Biden Administration provide clarity around their position on such partnerships, and reinstate transparency measures and critical protections.”

The measure rescinded by the Biden Administration was titled “Establishing Requirement for Student and Exchange Visitor Program Certified Schools to Disclose Agreements with Confucius Institutes and Classrooms.”&nbsp; More information about the rule can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reginfo.gov%2Fpublic%2Fdo%2FeoDetails%3Frrid%3D131811&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cae9338bb7e2742a8f0a308d8d9b28bb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637498708161937219%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gb7bbQ%2Fj8%2FmIe%2Bi%2BJGLNsjfLV86iBNfi%2Fn18j2AEQqk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569431760353.gif" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor Ricketts OfficeGovernor Pete Ricketts issued a statement urging President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to heighten transparency for international education partnerships.&nbsp; Governor Ricketts’ statement follows recent news that the Biden Administration has withdrawn a rule requiring educational institutions to disclose foreign ties.“Nebraska has taken proactive steps to ensure that foreign governments do not exert undue influence on our education system,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Former President Trump put in place important new requirements to ensure that colleges and universities disclosed relationships with Confucius Institutes, which have a history of promoting Chinese Communist Party propaganda.&nbsp; It is critical the Biden Administration provide clarity around their position on such partnerships, and reinstate transparency measures and critical protections.”The measure rescinded by the Biden Administration was titled “Establishing Requirement for Student and Exchange Visitor Program Certified Schools to Disclose Agreements with Confucius Institutes and Classrooms.”&nbsp; More information about the rule can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reginfo.gov%2Fpublic%2Fdo%2FeoDetails%3Frrid%3D131811&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cae9338bb7e2742a8f0a308d8d9b28bb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637498708161937219%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gb7bbQ%2Fj8%2FmIe%2Bi%2BJGLNsjfLV86iBNfi%2Fn18j2AEQqk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts urges transparency for international education partnerships

News Release Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation

We are excited to announce that registration is now open for local nonprofit organizations to participate in North Platte Giving Day! Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/sprf9pe" target="_blank">www.NorthPlatteGivingDay.org</a>&nbsp;and register to participate.&nbsp; The deadline to register is Monday, March 1.&nbsp; After reviewing registration information, if your organization qualifies we will send an email advising that your organization has been approved to participate. Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in good standing with the IRS may register to participate in North Platte Giving Day if it is located and provides services other than religion in North Platte or Lincoln County. &nbsp; The email advising of approval to participate will contain instructions and a link to your organization’s page so that you can complete the profile of your nonprofit as well as add content for the Giving Day website.&nbsp; This will be an opportunity to use words, photos and YouTube videos to tell the world about the important things that your nonprofit is doing. North Platte Giving Day will be a 24-hour fundraising event on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, during which donors specify which participating local nonprofits to help and how much to give.&nbsp; Donors will be able to make contributions on-line or at local Giving Sites. &nbsp; Participating nonprofits will receive the full value of each donation.&nbsp; Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation and an anonymous donor will cover all transaction and credit card fees. North Platte Giving Day is a way for nonprofit organizations to attract needed donations gain new donors, win cash prizes as well as inform people about their causes. &nbsp; Neon Giving Days formerly known as CiviCore, is based in Denver Colorado and again will assist Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation North Platte Giving Day platform on the May 5 Giving Day. &nbsp; Neon Giving Days mission is to make a social impact through technology solutions that improve the use of information in nonprofits, foundations, and public agencies. &nbsp;Neon/CiviCore has powered some of the largest Gives Days in the country for over ten years, such as Colorado Gives, Omaha Gives, and much more. &nbsp;

Deadline for Scholarships is March 3, 2021

Approximately 200 scholarships are&nbsp;awarded each year from funds administered by Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation. &nbsp;Some of these scholarships are targeted for applicants meeting very specific criteria. &nbsp;We are pleased to announce that application forms are available for the following targeted scholarships. &nbsp; <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/8hsf9pe" target="_blank">JOE AND DOROTHY CONGER “HANDY-ONE” SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be going into the second semester or second year of studying building and/or home maintenance vocational skills at North Platte Community College. &nbsp;One scholarship of $1,200 will be awarded this fall.&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/oatf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/42tf9pe" target="_blank">JOE AND DOROTHY CONGER SINGLE MOM SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be a single mother caring for one or more of her minor children. One scholarship of $1,400 will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/kvuf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/0nvf9pe" target="_blank">AMERICAN LEGION POST 163 SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be a veteran of the armed forces or a member of the armed forces reserves or a member of the&nbsp;National Guard or who has been honorably discharged from such armed service and who intends to pursue&nbsp;post-secondary education. &nbsp;One scholarship of $1,050 will be awarded for the coming school year. &nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/ggwf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/w8wf9pe" target="_blank">EAGLES CLUB – BOB SPADY SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicant must be a graduating senior from any high school in Lincoln County and&nbsp;must intend to pursue a career in the automotive industry. &nbsp;One $600 scholarship will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/c1xf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/styf9pe" target="_blank">NORTH PLATTE KIWANIS NEBRASKA COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP</a> Graduate of North Platte High School or St. Patrick High School, both in North Platte, who will be a college sophomore, junior or senior in coming school year. &nbsp;Applicant must have maintained passing grades and&nbsp;must demonstrate a record of volunteer activities. &nbsp;Three $500 scholarships will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/8lzf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/oe0f9pe" target="_blank">RILEY DOLAN EMT &amp; FIREFIGHTING SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must intend to study to be an EMT or firefighter in a volunteer or employed capacity. &nbsp;One $500 scholarship is available to be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;View application form for details. &nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/460f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/kz1f9pe" target="_blank">SUTHERLAND NEW HOPE VILLAGE SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicant must be at least a college&nbsp;junior, senior or graduate student in the coming school year and majoring in special education of mentally or physically handicapped children, or speech therapy, or seeking an endorsement in these areas. &nbsp;One or two scholarship awards totaling $1,100 will be available for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/0r2f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/gk3f9pe" target="_blank">JOHN AND JERRY WING ALEXANDER COMMUNICATIONS SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be entering a field of communications, such as broadcasting, journalism, public relations, advertising, computer communications fields or other communication fields as they develop and must demonstrate financial need. &nbsp;Several scholarships will be awarded.&nbsp; Each scholarship typically is approximately $1,000. &nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/wc4f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/c54f9pe" target="_blank">CATTLEWOMEN BEEF LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP</a> Students must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and&nbsp;must demonstrate experience working with cattle, including 4-H, FFA or similar activities. &nbsp;Applicants must plan to have a career in a beef-related field and&nbsp;must plan to study in a college or university beef-related program. &nbsp;One $1,500 scholarship is available to be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/sx5f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/8p6f9pe" target="_blank">RAY AND MARGARET CAROTHERS GRIFFITH SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicant must be a&nbsp;prior graduate of North Platte High School and&nbsp;completed at least one semester of college. &nbsp;Applicant must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in college. &nbsp;One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/oi7f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details</a>.&nbsp; <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/4a8f9pe" target="_blank">BRAD TROYER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be a graduating seniors of a high school located in Lincoln County or high school graduates who reside in Lincoln County and&nbsp;must intend to study welding. &nbsp;One $1,000 scholarship is available to be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/k38f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/0v9f9pe" target="_blank">NEBRASKALAND FAMILY &amp; CONSUMER SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIP</a> Must be a resident of Lincoln County, Nebraska. &nbsp;Applicant must be majoring in or intending to major in family and consumer science. &nbsp; One scholarship award of $500 will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/goag9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614287502933.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Mid-Nebraska Community FoundationWe are excited to announce that registration is now open for local nonprofit organizations to participate in North Platte Giving Day! Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/sprf9pe" target="_blank">www.NorthPlatteGivingDay.org</a>&nbsp;and register to participate.&nbsp; The deadline to register is Monday, March 1.&nbsp; After reviewing registration information, if your organization qualifies we will send an email advising that your organization has been approved to participate. Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in good standing with the IRS may register to participate in North Platte Giving Day if it is located and provides services other than religion in North Platte or Lincoln County. &nbsp; The email advising of approval to participate will contain instructions and a link to your organization’s page so that you can complete the profile of your nonprofit as well as add content for the Giving Day website.&nbsp; This will be an opportunity to use words, photos and YouTube videos to tell the world about the important things that your nonprofit is doing. North Platte Giving Day will be a 24-hour fundraising event on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, during which donors specify which participating local nonprofits to help and how much to give.&nbsp; Donors will be able to make contributions on-line or at local Giving Sites. &nbsp; Participating nonprofits will receive the full value of each donation.&nbsp; Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation and an anonymous donor will cover all transaction and credit card fees. North Platte Giving Day is a way for nonprofit organizations to attract needed donations gain new donors, win cash prizes as well as inform people about their causes. &nbsp; Neon Giving Days formerly known as CiviCore, is based in Denver Colorado and again will assist Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation North Platte Giving Day platform on the May 5 Giving Day. &nbsp; Neon Giving Days mission is to make a social impact through technology solutions that improve the use of information in nonprofits, foundations, and public agencies. &nbsp;Neon/CiviCore has powered some of the largest Gives Days in the country for over ten years, such as Colorado Gives, Omaha Gives, and much more. &nbsp; <h2>Deadline for Scholarships is March 3, 2021</h2> Approximately 200 scholarships are&nbsp;awarded each year from funds administered by Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation. &nbsp;Some of these scholarships are targeted for applicants meeting very specific criteria. &nbsp;We are pleased to announce that application forms are available for the following targeted scholarships. &nbsp; <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/8hsf9pe" target="_blank">JOE AND DOROTHY CONGER “HANDY-ONE” SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be going into the second semester or second year of studying building and/or home maintenance vocational skills at North Platte Community College. &nbsp;One scholarship of $1,200 will be awarded this fall.&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/oatf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/42tf9pe" target="_blank">JOE AND DOROTHY CONGER SINGLE MOM SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be a single mother caring for one or more of her minor children. One scholarship of $1,400 will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/kvuf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/0nvf9pe" target="_blank">AMERICAN LEGION POST 163 SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be a veteran of the armed forces or a member of the armed forces reserves or a member of the&nbsp;National Guard or who has been honorably discharged from such armed service and who intends to pursue&nbsp;post-secondary education. &nbsp;One scholarship of $1,050 will be awarded for the coming school year. &nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/ggwf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/w8wf9pe" target="_blank">EAGLES CLUB – BOB SPADY SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicant must be a graduating senior from any high school in Lincoln County and&nbsp;must intend to pursue a career in the automotive industry. &nbsp;One $600 scholarship will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/c1xf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/styf9pe" target="_blank">NORTH PLATTE KIWANIS NEBRASKA COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP</a> Graduate of North Platte High School or St. Patrick High School, both in North Platte, who will be a college sophomore, junior or senior in coming school year. &nbsp;Applicant must have maintained passing grades and&nbsp;must demonstrate a record of volunteer activities. &nbsp;Three $500 scholarships will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/8lzf9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/oe0f9pe" target="_blank">RILEY DOLAN EMT &amp; FIREFIGHTING SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must intend to study to be an EMT or firefighter in a volunteer or employed capacity. &nbsp;One $500 scholarship is available to be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;View application form for details. &nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/460f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/kz1f9pe" target="_blank">SUTHERLAND NEW HOPE VILLAGE SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicant must be at least a college&nbsp;junior, senior or graduate student in the coming school year and majoring in special education of mentally or physically handicapped children, or speech therapy, or seeking an endorsement in these areas. &nbsp;One or two scholarship awards totaling $1,100 will be available for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/0r2f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/gk3f9pe" target="_blank">JOHN AND JERRY WING ALEXANDER COMMUNICATIONS SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be entering a field of communications, such as broadcasting, journalism, public relations, advertising, computer communications fields or other communication fields as they develop and must demonstrate financial need. &nbsp;Several scholarships will be awarded.&nbsp; Each scholarship typically is approximately $1,000. &nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/wc4f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/c54f9pe" target="_blank">CATTLEWOMEN BEEF LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP</a> Students must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and&nbsp;must demonstrate experience working with cattle, including 4-H, FFA or similar activities. &nbsp;Applicants must plan to have a career in a beef-related field and&nbsp;must plan to study in a college or university beef-related program. &nbsp;One $1,500 scholarship is available to be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/sx5f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/8p6f9pe" target="_blank">RAY AND MARGARET CAROTHERS GRIFFITH SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicant must be a&nbsp;prior graduate of North Platte High School and&nbsp;completed at least one semester of college. &nbsp;Applicant must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in college. &nbsp;One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/oi7f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details</a>.&nbsp; <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/4a8f9pe" target="_blank">BRAD TROYER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP</a> Applicants must be a graduating seniors of a high school located in Lincoln County or high school graduates who reside in Lincoln County and&nbsp;must intend to study welding. &nbsp;One $1,000 scholarship is available to be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/k38f9pe" target="_blank">View application for details</a> <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/0v9f9pe" target="_blank">NEBRASKALAND FAMILY &amp; CONSUMER SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIP</a> Must be a resident of Lincoln County, Nebraska. &nbsp;Applicant must be majoring in or intending to major in family and consumer science. &nbsp; One scholarship award of $500 will be awarded for the coming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/oap8sdb/wwrvk2c/goag9pe" target="_blank">View application for details.</a>

Registration open for North Platte Giving Day; deadline for scholarships approaching

DENVER (AP) - A man tied to the killing of a Colorado woman nearly 40 years ago through DNA evidence was arrested earlier this month in Nebraska, authorities announced Thursday.

David Dwayne Anderson, 62, was arrested Feb. 10 in the killing of Sylvia Quayle, 35, in her home in Cherry Hills Village in August 1981, police in the Denver suburb said. According to court records, Anderson later appeared in court in Dawson County and waived his right to fight extradition to Colorado,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.9news.com/article/news/crime/cold-case-arrest-1981-murder-syliva-quayle/73-2f8d2e22-aac6-4d0b-a9b2-eb2948cd1228" target="_blank">KUSA-TV,</a>&nbsp;which first reported the arrest, said.

The public defender representing him in Nebraska did not return a telephone call seeking comment.

Police began working with Denver's Metro Crime Stoppers and forensic science computing company United Data Connect in January 2020 on the case. To identify a person of interest, genetic sequencing was done on DNA evidence from the case and then compared with information shared on public genealogical websites, United Data Connect co-founder and former Denver district attorney Mitch Morrissey said.

Police chief Michelle Tovrea said her thoughts were with Sylvia's family, including her sister and brother-in-law, and the pain and loss they have suffered.

"I am pleased there is a path moving forward to seek justice in her death," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614286855042.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) - A man tied to the killing of a Colorado woman nearly 40 years ago through DNA evidence was arrested earlier this month in Nebraska, authorities announced Thursday.David Dwayne Anderson, 62, was arrested Feb. 10 in the killing of Sylvia Quayle, 35, in her home in Cherry Hills Village in August 1981, police in the Denver suburb said. According to court records, Anderson later appeared in court in Dawson County and waived his right to fight extradition to Colorado,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.9news.com/article/news/crime/cold-case-arrest-1981-murder-syliva-quayle/73-2f8d2e22-aac6-4d0b-a9b2-eb2948cd1228" target="_blank">KUSA-TV,</a>&nbsp;which first reported the arrest, said.The public defender representing him in Nebraska did not return a telephone call seeking comment.Police began working with Denver's Metro Crime Stoppers and forensic science computing company United Data Connect in January 2020 on the case. To identify a person of interest, genetic sequencing was done on DNA evidence from the case and then compared with information shared on public genealogical websites, United Data Connect co-founder and former Denver district attorney Mitch Morrissey said.Police chief Michelle Tovrea said her thoughts were with Sylvia's family, including her sister and brother-in-law, and the pain and loss they have suffered."I am pleased there is a path moving forward to seek justice in her death," she said.

Man arrested in Dawson County in Colorado cold case slaying

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A judge has sentenced a Scottsbluff man to prison after he was convicted of stealing money from an online campaign that claimed it would help the children of a woman killed in a crash.

The Scottsbluff Star-Herald reports the judge sentenced Febronio Plasencio Jr., 37, on Feb. 12 to a year in prison after he was convicted of theft by taking, a misdemeanor. He'd previously been charged with the felony of theft by deception but agreed to a plea deal that included the lesser charge and a requirement he pays more than $5,400 in restitution and writes an apology letter.

Plasencio was arrested after Gering police began investigating a GoFundMe fundraiser for the three young children of Holly Heath. She died Dec. 5, 2019, after being injured in a crash.

Someone contacted police because of concerns the money wasn't going toward the children, who were being cared for by Heath's parents. An investigation showed Plasencio had been withdrawing money from the account and not giving it to the Heath family.

Plasencio should be eligible for release after serving about half his sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574122756866.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A judge has sentenced a Scottsbluff man to prison after he was convicted of stealing money from an online campaign that claimed it would help the children of a woman killed in a crash.The Scottsbluff Star-Herald reports the judge sentenced Febronio Plasencio Jr., 37, on Feb. 12 to a year in prison after he was convicted of theft by taking, a misdemeanor. He'd previously been charged with the felony of theft by deception but agreed to a plea deal that included the lesser charge and a requirement he pays more than $5,400 in restitution and writes an apology letter.Plasencio was arrested after Gering police began investigating a GoFundMe fundraiser for the three young children of Holly Heath. She died Dec. 5, 2019, after being injured in a crash.Someone contacted police because of concerns the money wasn't going toward the children, who were being cared for by Heath's parents. An investigation showed Plasencio had been withdrawing money from the account and not giving it to the Heath family.Plasencio should be eligible for release after serving about half his sentence.

Scottsbluff man sentenced after conviction for stealing from fundraiser

Scams have become a way of life, unfortunately, and it seems scammers are getting more creative every day.

The T.O. Haas Tire store in Ogallala is warning residents of a local scam.

T.O. Haas Tire has reported that customers are receiving phone calls from an entity claiming to be T.O Haas Tire - soliciting tires and auto service. 

The information that may come up on caller ID could show "T.O. Hass Tire". 

Company officials ask residents to please be aware that T.O. Hass Tire does not call and solicit services of any kind.

Contact local law enforcement to report suspected scams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605633726074.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostScams have become a way of life, unfortunately, and it seems scammers are getting more creative every day.The T.O. Haas Tire store in Ogallala is warning residents of a local scam.T.O. Haas Tire has reported that customers are receiving phone calls from an entity claiming to be T.O Haas Tire - soliciting tires and auto service. The information that may come up on caller ID could show "T.O. Hass Tire". Company officials ask residents to please be aware that T.O. Hass Tire does not call and solicit services of any kind.Contact local law enforcement to report suspected scams.

Ogallala T.O. Haas warns of local scam

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A bill that would impose harsher penalties on protesters who loot, riot or commit other crimes got a chilly reception Wednesday from a Nebraska legislative committee, with some lawmakers saying it would infringe on free-speech rights and punish those who gather peacefully.

The measure was modeled after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f465062c6eb6ab38c8df99b40f687fe4" target="_blank">recently passed Tennessee law&nbsp;</a>and introduced in response to last year's Black Lives Matter protests in Omaha and Lincoln that led to property damage and one death. It would create felony charges for people who damage or spray-paint law enforcement property, throw bodily fluids or aim laser pointers at officers, or knowingly participate in a riot where someone is seriously hurt, among other actions.

"This is simply not acceptable, and we must make this type of behavior as unattractive as possible," said Sen. Joni Albrecht, of Thurston, who sponsored the proposal.

The measure won support last year from a coalition of conservative lawmakers, but it was met with loud criticism from protesters who disrupted their public announcement outside the Capitol. Its prospects in the Legislature's Judiciary Committee are unclear.

Sen. Terrell McKinney, who participated in some of the Black Lives Matter protests in Omaha, said law enforcement officers should also be held accountable for their actions during the protests.

McKinney, of Omaha, said he was tear-gassed at one point and witnessed officers provoking protesters during the conflict. He said the bill would undermine the rights of people who want to protest injustices such as the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody.

"I just feel like there is more effort to protect law enforcement than there is to make sure a Black man or woman isn't killed by police," said McKinney, who is Black.

Sen. Steve Lathrop, an Omaha attorney and chairman of the Judiciary Committee, said it's difficult for lawmakers to pass such a measure without running afoul of protesters' constitutional right to assemble peacefully. As the proposal is currently written, opponents said prosecutors would be able to charge anyone who was present at a riot with crimes that took place during it.

Spike Eickholt, a lobbyist for the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska and the state's criminal defense attorneys, said many of the offenses listed in the proposal are already illegal and can be prosecuted under current laws. He said the bill was an overly broad attempt to retaliate against the sometimes-violent protests and the damage they caused.

"You have a right to protest that can't be thwarted if somebody shows up and throws a rock," Eickholt said.

Eickholt said many aspects of the proposal could have unintended consequences. He pointed to the stiffer proposed punishments for vandalizing public property, saying they could be applied to students writing their names on a school sidewalk.

But Sen. Suzanne Geist, of Lincoln, alluded to the fact that Omaha and Lincoln were under city-ordered curfews that many of the protesters ignored.

"I'm just trying to walk the line between where does criminal activity begin and where does peaceful protest end," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591199953588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A bill that would impose harsher penalties on protesters who loot, riot or commit other crimes got a chilly reception Wednesday from a Nebraska legislative committee, with some lawmakers saying it would infringe on free-speech rights and punish those who gather peacefully.The measure was modeled after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f465062c6eb6ab38c8df99b40f687fe4" target="_blank">recently passed Tennessee law&nbsp;</a>and introduced in response to last year's Black Lives Matter protests in Omaha and Lincoln that led to property damage and one death. It would create felony charges for people who damage or spray-paint law enforcement property, throw bodily fluids or aim laser pointers at officers, or knowingly participate in a riot where someone is seriously hurt, among other actions."This is simply not acceptable, and we must make this type of behavior as unattractive as possible," said Sen. Joni Albrecht, of Thurston, who sponsored the proposal.The measure won support last year from a coalition of conservative lawmakers, but it was met with loud criticism from protesters who disrupted their public announcement outside the Capitol. Its prospects in the Legislature's Judiciary Committee are unclear.Sen. Terrell McKinney, who participated in some of the Black Lives Matter protests in Omaha, said law enforcement officers should also be held accountable for their actions during the protests.McKinney, of Omaha, said he was tear-gassed at one point and witnessed officers provoking protesters during the conflict. He said the bill would undermine the rights of people who want to protest injustices such as the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody."I just feel like there is more effort to protect law enforcement than there is to make sure a Black man or woman isn't killed by police," said McKinney, who is Black.Sen. Steve Lathrop, an Omaha attorney and chairman of the Judiciary Committee, said it's difficult for lawmakers to pass such a measure without running afoul of protesters' constitutional right to assemble peacefully. As the proposal is currently written, opponents said prosecutors would be able to charge anyone who was present at a riot with crimes that took place during it.Spike Eickholt, a lobbyist for the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska and the state's criminal defense attorneys, said many of the offenses listed in the proposal are already illegal and can be prosecuted under current laws. He said the bill was an overly broad attempt to retaliate against the sometimes-violent protests and the damage they caused."You have a right to protest that can't be thwarted if somebody shows up and throws a rock," Eickholt said.Eickholt said many aspects of the proposal could have unintended consequences. He pointed to the stiffer proposed punishments for vandalizing public property, saying they could be applied to students writing their names on a school sidewalk.But Sen. Suzanne Geist, of Lincoln, alluded to the fact that Omaha and Lincoln were under city-ordered curfews that many of the protesters ignored."I'm just trying to walk the line between where does criminal activity begin and where does peaceful protest end," she said.

Nebraska bill targeting protesters gets chilly reception

A man and woman are in jail after a landlord/tenant dispute at a North Platte RV park led to the discovery of narcotics.

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, for the last couple of months, the owners of the Lincoln Highway RV Park have been in a dispute with one of the subjects who rented a camping space from them. 

LCSO says the subject sued the RV Park owners, believing they were not able to evict them under the Landlord-Tenant Act. 

According to LCSO, the subjects had stopped paying rent and utilities to the RV Park owners many months ago. Investigators say the owners of the RV Park patiently waited and did not evict the subject, although they could have under the law, until the court case was concluded.

LCSO says on February 17, the court ruled that RV Parks do not fall under the Landlord-Tenant act as campers are not permanent “dwelling units or buildings”. However, even after losing his court case, the subject did not remove his camper nor did he pay the back camper rent or utilities. 

 On February 23, at around 10:30 am, deputies arrived at the subject’s camper to remove him from the property and arrest him for theft of services.

 Deputies met with 45-year-old Kevin Taylor and his girlfriend 20-year-old Andrea Flores, both were previously from California. 

 Upon meeting both subjects, LCSO says deputies immediately smelled the odor of burnt and raw marijuana coming out of the camper. 

Taylor was arrested for the felony theft of services and transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center. 

Investigators say Flores was detained as Deputies deployed the Sheriff’s Office K-9 around the trailer.  The K-9 did indicate there were narcotics inside the trailer.

LCSO says a search warrant for the trailer was written and signed by a County Court Judge. Upon execution of the warrant, deputies searched the trailer and found numerous items of drug paraphernalia, about one ounce of Marijuana, about an ounce and half of suspected methamphetamine, and a large amount of cash. 

Flores and Taylor were both arrested on suspicion of distribution of a controlled substance-methamphetamine and possession of marijuana. 

  Both were placed in the Lincoln County Detention Center. 

 The investigation in this matter continues and additional charges may be forthcoming, according to LCSO. 

LCSO says all of this could have been avoided by paying the fees to the RV Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614205166061.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostA man and woman are in jail after a landlord/tenant dispute at a North Platte RV park led to the discovery of narcotics.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614206010497.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, for the last couple of months, the owners of the Lincoln Highway RV Park have been in a dispute with one of the subjects who rented a camping space from them. LCSO says the subject sued the RV Park owners, believing they were not able to evict them under the Landlord-Tenant Act. According to LCSO, the subjects had stopped paying rent and utilities to the RV Park owners many months ago. Investigators say the owners of the RV Park patiently waited and did not evict the subject, although they could have under the law, until the court case was concluded.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614205211744.jpeg" alt="Andrea Flores" />
 <figcaption>Andrea Flores</figcaption>
 </figure>LCSO says on February 17, the court ruled that RV Parks do not fall under the Landlord-Tenant act as campers are not permanent “dwelling units or buildings”. However, even after losing his court case, the subject did not remove his camper nor did he pay the back camper rent or utilities. On February 23, at around 10:30 am, deputies arrived at the subject’s camper to remove him from the property and arrest him for theft of services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614206033791.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Deputies met with 45-year-old Kevin Taylor and his girlfriend 20-year-old Andrea Flores, both were previously from California. Upon meeting both subjects, LCSO says deputies immediately smelled the odor of burnt and raw marijuana coming out of the camper. Taylor was arrested for the felony theft of services and transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center. Investigators say Flores was detained as Deputies deployed the Sheriff’s Office K-9 around the trailer. The K-9 did indicate there were narcotics inside the trailer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614206091032.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LCSO says a search warrant for the trailer was written and signed by a County Court Judge. Upon execution of the warrant, deputies searched the trailer and found numerous items of drug paraphernalia, about one ounce of Marijuana, about an ounce and half of suspected methamphetamine, and a large amount of cash. Flores and Taylor were both arrested on suspicion of distribution of a controlled substance-methamphetamine and possession of marijuana. Both were placed in the Lincoln County Detention Center. The investigation in this matter continues and additional charges may be forthcoming, according to LCSO. LCSO says all of this could have been avoided by paying the fees to the RV Park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614206171412.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Dispute at North Platte RV park leads to theft, narcotics charges

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NPCC)-A large donation from Great Plains Health will provide a major boost in expanding North Platte Community College’s Health and Science Center. Representatives from GPH presented a $500,000 check to NPCC officials Wednesday in support of the project.

<a>“We are very proud to partner with North Platte Community College on the expansion of its Health and Science Center,”&nbsp;</a>said Mel McNea, Great Plains Health chief executive officer. “Our nation already faced a shortage of healthcare workers and the pandemic only deepened the demand. It is crucial that we continue to support education and training programs for students interested in health sciences. Timing is critical, and we are excited about the opportunity this expansion brings to our community. Our investment in this project is one way for us to show our commitment to continuing to provide access to quality care in our region.”

Ryan Purdy, Mid-Plains Community College president, said the college is grateful for the support.

“The continued support of our health occupations programs from Great Plains Health has allowed for the continuous improvement and expansion of educational opportunities in our region,” Purdy said.&nbsp;“This latest investment will assist MPCC in creating space&nbsp;for the North Platte Community College South Campus Health and Science Center&nbsp;to expand the number of graduates to fill the shortage of nurses and other health occupations in our area and further improve the learning opportunities for our students in these health occupation programs.”

The Health and Science Center is located on NPCC’s South Campus. Constructed in 2012, it is home to the college’s nursing, medical laboratory technician, emergency medical services, paramedic, dental assisting, math, biology, physics and engineering programs.

As the demand for more nurses and health care professionals has increased throughout the college’s 18-county service area and beyond, so has the need for more space to train those professionals.

The planned expansion of the building will include additional classrooms to accommodate increased enrollment in nursing courses, lab space for nursing and emergency services and an office area for new faculty.

Conference rooms, a classroom with flexible table and chair arrangements, private workspaces for students and a virtual innovation lab will also be constructed to complement existing programming and enhance learning experiences.

Construction could start as early as this fall.

The total cost of the project is expected to be nearly $4 million.

“The support of this project from our local communities has been outstanding,” said Bonnie Kruse, area director of Institutional Advancement. “We will continue to reach out to our partners locally and throughout the state to secure additional funding.”

Those interested in contributing to the project can contact Kruse at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kruseb@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">kruseb@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (308) 535-3754.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614195473313.png" alt="Mel McNea, Great Plains Health chief executive officer, presents a check for $500,000 to MPCC President Ryan Purdy on Wednesday. The commitment from GPH will be used to expand the college’s Health and Science Center." />
 <figcaption>Mel McNea, Great Plains Health chief executive officer, presents a check for $500,000 to MPCC President Ryan Purdy on Wednesday. The commitment from GPH will be used to expand the college’s Health and Science Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NPCC)-A large donation from Great Plains Health will provide a major boost in expanding North Platte Community College’s Health and Science Center. Representatives from GPH presented a $500,000 check to NPCC officials Wednesday in support of the project.<a>“We are very proud to partner with North Platte Community College on the expansion of its Health and Science Center,”&nbsp;</a>said Mel McNea, Great Plains Health chief executive officer. “Our nation already faced a shortage of healthcare workers and the pandemic only deepened the demand. It is crucial that we continue to support education and training programs for students interested in health sciences. Timing is critical, and we are excited about the opportunity this expansion brings to our community. Our investment in this project is one way for us to show our commitment to continuing to provide access to quality care in our region.”Ryan Purdy, Mid-Plains Community College president, said the college is grateful for the support.“The continued support of our health occupations programs from Great Plains Health has allowed for the continuous improvement and expansion of educational opportunities in our region,” Purdy said.&nbsp;“This latest investment will assist MPCC in creating space&nbsp;for the North Platte Community College South Campus Health and Science Center&nbsp;to expand the number of graduates to fill the shortage of nurses and other health occupations in our area and further improve the learning opportunities for our students in these health occupation programs.”Meeting a needThe Health and Science Center is located on NPCC’s South Campus. Constructed in 2012, it is home to the college’s nursing, medical laboratory technician, emergency medical services, paramedic, dental assisting, math, biology, physics and engineering programs.As the demand for more nurses and health care professionals has increased throughout the college’s 18-county service area and beyond, so has the need for more space to train those professionals.The planned expansion of the building will include additional classrooms to accommodate increased enrollment in nursing courses, lab space for nursing and emergency services and an office area for new faculty.Conference rooms, a classroom with flexible table and chair arrangements, private workspaces for students and a virtual innovation lab will also be constructed to complement existing programming and enhance learning experiences.Construction could start as early as this fall.The total cost of the project is expected to be nearly $4 million.“The support of this project from our local communities has been outstanding,” said Bonnie Kruse, area director of Institutional Advancement. “We will continue to reach out to our partners locally and throughout the state to secure additional funding.”Those interested in contributing to the project can contact Kruse at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kruseb@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">kruseb@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (308) 535-3754.

Great Plains Health donates $500K to NPCC Health and Science Center

The Endangered Missing Advisory activated to determine the whereabouts of Jade Nicole Sides, has been cancelled. The alert has been cancelled due to Located safely in Iowa **************

An Endangered Missing Advisory has been activated to determine the whereabouts of Jade Nicole Sides. The Burt County Sheriff's office is attempting to locate Jade Nicole Sides, a 20-month-old white female. Sides is 33" 25 pounds with Brown hair and Blue eyes wearing pink striped long sleeve top and pants. Sides was taken by Justin William Sides, White Male 6' 150 pounds, brown hair. Justin Sides was wearing Green camo jacket, black pants and brown boots. He may be driving a Blue 2005 Toyota Corolla 4dr NE 31 G319. Nicole Sides may be in danger. If you know the whereabouts of Nicole or Justin Sides please call 911 or the Burt County Sheriff's office at 402-374-2900. This advisory is for the following State Patrol Troop Areas: Troop A, Troop B, Troop C, Troop D, Troop E, Troop H&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614195235136.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Nebraska State PatrolThe Endangered Missing Advisory activated to determine the whereabouts of Jade Nicole Sides, has been cancelled. The alert has been cancelled due to Located safely in Iowa **************An Endangered Missing Advisory has been activated to determine the whereabouts of Jade Nicole Sides. The Burt County Sheriff's office is attempting to locate Jade Nicole Sides, a 20-month-old white female. Sides is 33" 25 pounds with Brown hair and Blue eyes wearing pink striped long sleeve top and pants. Sides was taken by Justin William Sides, White Male 6' 150 pounds, brown hair. Justin Sides was wearing Green camo jacket, black pants and brown boots. He may be driving a Blue 2005 Toyota Corolla 4dr NE 31 G319. Nicole Sides may be in danger. If you know the whereabouts of Nicole or Justin Sides please call 911 or the Burt County Sheriff's office at 402-374-2900. This advisory is for the following State Patrol Troop Areas: Troop A, Troop B, Troop C, Troop D, Troop E, Troop H&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATED Missing/Endangered Advisory issued for 20-month-old Nebraska girl

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An appeals court has rejected the Trump administration's decision to drop a proposal requiring freight trains to have at least two crew members that was drafted after several fiery crude oil train derailments. 

Tuesday's ruling from the 9th U.S. Court of Appeals will likely make it harder for the railroad industry to reduce the number of crew members, and it opens the door for states to require two man crews on freight trains that carry crude oil, ethanol and other hazardous commodities.

 The decision was praised by rail labor groups that argue one-person crews are more dangerous.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An appeals court has rejected the Trump administration's decision to drop a proposal requiring freight trains to have at least two crew members that was drafted after several fiery crude oil train derailments. Tuesday's ruling from the 9th U.S. Court of Appeals will likely make it harder for the railroad industry to reduce the number of crew members, and it opens the door for states to require two man crews on freight trains that carry crude oil, ethanol and other hazardous commodities. The decision was praised by rail labor groups that argue one-person crews are more dangerous.

Court ruling may make it harder to cut train crew sizes to 1

Almost any child in North Platte, or that has grown up in North Platte for the last several decades, knows and loves Story Time at the North Platte Public Library (NPPL).

After COVID-19 forced Story Time to go virtual for almost a year, the NPPL announced that in-person Story Time is returning.

Starting next Tuesday, March 2, Story Time will be held in-person every Tuesday at either 10:30 am or 1:30 pm. Virtual Story Times will also continue for those who do not wish to attend in-person. Children will have the opportunity to hear stories from the NPPL children's room staff and more fun.

Story Time is an interactive storytelling and activity program for children ages 3-Kindergarten.

For more information, contact the NPPL at 308-535-8036 Ext. 3318.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571932881079.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostAlmost any child in North Platte, or that has grown up in North Platte for the last several decades, knows and loves Story Time at the North Platte Public Library (NPPL).After COVID-19 forced Story Time to go virtual for almost a year, the NPPL announced that in-person Story Time is returning.Starting next Tuesday, March 2, Story Time will be held in-person every Tuesday at either 10:30 am or 1:30 pm. Virtual Story Times will also continue for those who do not wish to attend in-person. Children will have the opportunity to hear stories from the NPPL children's room staff and more fun.Story Time is an interactive storytelling and activity program for children ages 3-Kindergarten.For more information, contact the NPPL at 308-535-8036 Ext. 3318.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNorthPlattePL%2Fvideos%2F239289320958261%2F&show_text=true&width=560" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

In-person 'Story Time' returning to North Platte Public Library

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month so Scotty C sat down with Amber from the North Platte Rape and Domestic Abuse Program to talk about exactly what is teen dating violence and some of the resources RDAP offers. For more information visit the <a href="https://nprdap.org/">RDAP website</a>.

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month so Scotty C sat down with Amber from the North Platte Rape and Domestic Abuse Program to talk about exactly what is teen dating violence and some of the resources RDAP offers. For more information visit the <a href="https://nprdap.org/">RDAP website</a>.<div><iframe title="🎙Post Podcast: Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/968ja-fbbef4?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: Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month with RDAP

The marijuana industry, which is now partially owned by Big Tobacco, has its eye on&nbsp;Nebraska as a new place to turn a profit.&nbsp; Previously, they hid this moneymaking motive under the guise of “medical” marijuana. &nbsp;Now they are just pushing for full legalization.

Nebraskans have common sense and instinctively understand how this dangerous drug could harm our youth, our communities, and our economy. &nbsp;We don’t have to guess at the steep social costs of marijuana legalization—they have already played out tragically all over the country.

States that legalize marijuana outright or incrementally (that is, through “medical marijuana”) have seen a human toll.&nbsp; This has included devastating effects on kids, tragic accidents, decreased participation in the workforce, and horrible mental health outcomes.

While popular media has tried to reframe how the public thinks about marijuana, it’s important to understand the health consequences and dangers of this drug.&nbsp; There are good reasons why the federal government classifies marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug, which means it has no medical value and high potential for abuse.&nbsp; Other Schedule 1 drugs include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marijuana has a profoundly harmful effect on teens and young adults.&nbsp; THC (the psychoactive component of marijuana) impacts the developing adolescent brain severely and in many cases permanently.&nbsp; Actual physical changes in the grey matter of the brain in young marijuana users are documented.&nbsp; Frequent marijuana use is associated with learning impairment and poor academic performance.&nbsp; Additionally, increased marijuana use is correlated with greater risk of depression and suicidal thoughts for adolescents.

In states that have legalized marijuana, use of the drug has escalated among youth.&nbsp; For these states, usage climbed 3.5% from 2016-2017 to 2017-2018.&nbsp; Earlier this month, a study in&nbsp;the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs&nbsp;showed that marijuana use among teens is up 23% in California since the state fully legalized marijuana in 2016.&nbsp;

Marijuana triggers psychotic episodes that can end in tragedy.&nbsp; Levi Pongi, age 19, died after consuming a marijuana cookie and jumping off a balcony.&nbsp; Marijuana use also increases depression, thoughts of suicide, and suicidal behaviors among young adults.&nbsp; Marc Bullard, age 23, committed suicide after he began using a concentrated form of marijuana.&nbsp; He had no previous history of depression.&nbsp; These examples, both from our neighboring state of Colorado, show the potential of the drug to ruin young lives.

While putting youth at risk, marijuana use also increases the likelihood of on-the-job accidents and decreases worker productivity.&nbsp; States that have normalized marijuana use have experienced a sharp increase in workforce positivity rates since legalization.&nbsp; Examples include Oregon, Nevada, and Colorado where the rate of workers testing positive for marijuana have increased 63%, 55%, and 47% respectively.&nbsp; Overall,&nbsp;the rate of people testing positive in the workplace went up about 17% from 2014 to 2018.&nbsp; Alarmingly, there was an increase of about 24% in the rate of workers testing positive whose job performance has an impact on public safety, such as airplane pilots and workers in nuclear power plants.

Along with these workforce issues, marijuana also endangers public safety on the roads.&nbsp; For instance, in Washington, the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes testing positive for THC has doubled since the state legalized marijuana in 2012.&nbsp;

Aside from its particularly harmful influence on youth and in workplaces, marijuana is bad for health, especially mental health.&nbsp; Marijuana poses risks to brain development and cognitive functioning.&nbsp; The National Academy of Medicine, the nonprofit group that advises the federal government on health and medicine, released a report in 2017.&nbsp; It shows that “Cannabis use is likely to increase the risk of schizophrenia and other psychoses.”&nbsp; According to NAM, the higher the use is, the greater the risk is.

The American Psychiatric Association’s statement on marijuana says, “there is no current scientific evidence that cannabis is in any way beneficial for the treatment of any psychiatric disorder.&nbsp; In contrast, current evidence supports, at minimum, a strong association of cannabis use with the onset of psychiatric disorders.&nbsp;&nbsp;Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to harm, given the effects of cannabis on neurological development.”

California partially legalized marijuana in 1996 and fully legalized it in 2016.&nbsp; The State saw a rise in marijuana-related emergency department visits of 976% from 2005 to 2019!&nbsp; Colorado legalized marijuana in 2012 for adults age 21 and older.&nbsp; A study by the University of Colorado School of Medicine reported a threefold increase in ER visits related to marijuana from 2012 to 2016.&nbsp;

No wonder the American Medical Association (AMA) warns the public not to smoke marijuana and opposes its legalization. &nbsp;The AMA’s policy statement on “Cannabis Legalization for Recreational Use” says “cannabis is a dangerous drug and as such is a serious public health concern,” and “cannabis for adult use should not be legalized.”&nbsp;

The multi-billion dollar marijuana industry will continue to say anything to get the drug legalized and avoid regulation for public safety.&nbsp; I urge Nebraskans to be steadfast in resisting their tactics.&nbsp; As the Legislature debates bills related to marijuana this session, contact your State Senator to&nbsp;remind them of the dangers of bringing marijuana legalization to your community.&nbsp; You can find their contact information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cf5f5b156aea04f1fbb3d08d8d851d983%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637497193351531396%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=0CYW2%2BjLlDHfLH5DqBLEQjnG%2B3A7m9LuRM%2BurCSfEqo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nebraskalegislature.gov</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions on other topics, please contact my office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244.

Governor's Weekly Column<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Governor Pete RickettsThe marijuana industry, which is now partially owned by Big Tobacco, has its eye on&nbsp;Nebraska as a new place to turn a profit.&nbsp; Previously, they hid this moneymaking motive under the guise of “medical” marijuana. &nbsp;Now they are just pushing for full legalization.Nebraskans have common sense and instinctively understand how this dangerous drug could harm our youth, our communities, and our economy. &nbsp;We don’t have to guess at the steep social costs of marijuana legalization—they have already played out tragically all over the country.States that legalize marijuana outright or incrementally (that is, through “medical marijuana”) have seen a human toll.&nbsp; This has included devastating effects on kids, tragic accidents, decreased participation in the workforce, and horrible mental health outcomes.While popular media has tried to reframe how the public thinks about marijuana, it’s important to understand the health consequences and dangers of this drug.&nbsp; There are good reasons why the federal government classifies marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug, which means it has no medical value and high potential for abuse.&nbsp; Other Schedule 1 drugs include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marijuana has a profoundly harmful effect on teens and young adults.&nbsp; THC (the psychoactive component of marijuana) impacts the developing adolescent brain severely and in many cases permanently.&nbsp; Actual physical changes in the grey matter of the brain in young marijuana users are documented.&nbsp; Frequent marijuana use is associated with learning impairment and poor academic performance.&nbsp; Additionally, increased marijuana use is correlated with greater risk of depression and suicidal thoughts for adolescents.In states that have legalized marijuana, use of the drug has escalated among youth.&nbsp; For these states, usage climbed 3.5% from 2016-2017 to 2017-2018.&nbsp; Earlier this month, a study in&nbsp;the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs&nbsp;showed that marijuana use among teens is up 23% in California since the state fully legalized marijuana in 2016.&nbsp;Marijuana triggers psychotic episodes that can end in tragedy.&nbsp; Levi Pongi, age 19, died after consuming a marijuana cookie and jumping off a balcony.&nbsp; Marijuana use also increases depression, thoughts of suicide, and suicidal behaviors among young adults.&nbsp; Marc Bullard, age 23, committed suicide after he began using a concentrated form of marijuana.&nbsp; He had no previous history of depression.&nbsp; These examples, both from our neighboring state of Colorado, show the potential of the drug to ruin young lives.While putting youth at risk, marijuana use also increases the likelihood of on-the-job accidents and decreases worker productivity.&nbsp; States that have normalized marijuana use have experienced a sharp increase in workforce positivity rates since legalization.&nbsp; Examples include Oregon, Nevada, and Colorado where the rate of workers testing positive for marijuana have increased 63%, 55%, and 47% respectively.&nbsp; Overall,&nbsp;the rate of people testing positive in the workplace went up about 17% from 2014 to 2018.&nbsp; Alarmingly, there was an increase of about 24% in the rate of workers testing positive whose job performance has an impact on public safety, such as airplane pilots and workers in nuclear power plants.Along with these workforce issues, marijuana also endangers public safety on the roads.&nbsp; For instance, in Washington, the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes testing positive for THC has doubled since the state legalized marijuana in 2012.&nbsp;Aside from its particularly harmful influence on youth and in workplaces, marijuana is bad for health, especially mental health.&nbsp; Marijuana poses risks to brain development and cognitive functioning.&nbsp; The National Academy of Medicine, the nonprofit group that advises the federal government on health and medicine, released a report in 2017.&nbsp; It shows that “Cannabis use is likely to increase the risk of schizophrenia and other psychoses.”&nbsp; According to NAM, the higher the use is, the greater the risk is.The American Psychiatric Association’s statement on marijuana says, “there is no current scientific evidence that cannabis is in any way beneficial for the treatment of any psychiatric disorder.&nbsp; In contrast, current evidence supports, at minimum, a strong association of cannabis use with the onset of psychiatric disorders.&nbsp;&nbsp;Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to harm, given the effects of cannabis on neurological development.”California partially legalized marijuana in 1996 and fully legalized it in 2016.&nbsp; The State saw a rise in marijuana-related emergency department visits of 976% from 2005 to 2019!&nbsp; Colorado legalized marijuana in 2012 for adults age 21 and older.&nbsp; A study by the University of Colorado School of Medicine reported a threefold increase in ER visits related to marijuana from 2012 to 2016.&nbsp;No wonder the American Medical Association (AMA) warns the public not to smoke marijuana and opposes its legalization. &nbsp;The AMA’s policy statement on “Cannabis Legalization for Recreational Use” says “cannabis is a dangerous drug and as such is a serious public health concern,” and “cannabis for adult use should not be legalized.”&nbsp;The multi-billion dollar marijuana industry will continue to say anything to get the drug legalized and avoid regulation for public safety.&nbsp; I urge Nebraskans to be steadfast in resisting their tactics.&nbsp; As the Legislature debates bills related to marijuana this session, contact your State Senator to&nbsp;remind them of the dangers of bringing marijuana legalization to your community.&nbsp; You can find their contact information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cf5f5b156aea04f1fbb3d08d8d851d983%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637497193351531396%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=0CYW2%2BjLlDHfLH5DqBLEQjnG%2B3A7m9LuRM%2BurCSfEqo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nebraskalegislature.gov</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions on other topics, please contact my office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244.

Ricketts: Marijuana-A clear and present danger

News Release Nebraska Families for Medical Cannabis&nbsp;

LINCOLN — Still disappointed by last year’s decision by the Nebraska Supreme Court to remove medical cannabis from the 2020 ballot, parents of children with serious health conditions and other advocates called on Nebraska lawmakers to establish a compassionate medical cannabis program for patients and pass measures designed to improve the state’s ballot initiative process.&nbsp;

Crista Eggers of Gretna, whose son suffers from intractable epilepsy, collected hundreds of signatures last year for the medical marijuana ballot initiative. Eggers called on lawmakers to have compassion for families like hers:

“We collected over 196,000 signatures and did everything the right way. But in the end, the Nebraska Supreme Court just erased all of that hard work. There’s no question that voters would have approved the medical cannabis initiative, which would have helped my son and thousands of other patients who need relief in our state. If they have any conscience, our lawmakers will pass a compassionate law this session and reform what is clearly a broken ballot initiative system.”

Nebraska Families for Medical Cannabis said they are supporting three bills, each introduced by state Senator Anna Wishart:

Many other directly-affected families and patient advocates attended the press conference, including Dominic Gillen, another Nebraskan parent whose child struggles with frequent seizures. Mr. Gillen said:

“My family has been fighting for this for eight years. Last year we proved that the people of Nebraska are overwhelmingly on our side, but we were unfairly denied access to the ballot. Five justices decided voters shouldn’t be able to decide this issue, and now, just a handful of senators in this Capitol building are preventing my son from having a better quality of life. This is wrong. We need our lawmakers, who are supposed to represent us, to act now.”

In July last year, backers of the medical cannabis initiative submitted over 196,000 signatures from Nebraskans to qualify the constitutional amendment for the ballot. Secretary of State Bob Evnen certified the measure, but the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled in favor of an opponent who filed a lawsuit claiming the initiative violated the state’s single subject rule for ballot referenda.

In December 2020, the committee that supported the 2020 medical cannabis effort, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, filed a new petition to legalize medical cannabis through the 2022 ballot.&nbsp;

Nebraska Families for Medical Cannabis is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to educate the public about the benefits of policies that allow for safe, legal access to medical cannabis for patients with serious health conditions. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUVraw9EETuL9D74-2FMOQUBEIPj3QNd1wrjwox4ZT3KEnYfory_fuR9JFio7W6cp4kNiRkGh1k-2FmpsIhZUxxJbweMbS6t4o4OCzKG6D2YgDDSADf1JlPWpn99Ec7NDKIdrh0XrWIzBa0LfdWuiapqVXRnePRa-2BKUWLT29Iuep5RcGBoqCXUKj1c3v4A1ZHV2MCdLXoHEHHxf3uDIRMOP4o9LN-2BWXK-2BLIAS47ZCD-2BgbTwrW6WC6BUsTzgwqw95XMdKhGfbOTIKdim-2FTGYzQp0C66EB5VN2RUNPjYTXMv6GPCW7AZmIaDoZfK6mMcFYcRQxcTdWs-2BvTtg6WV1lvgFJT2d-2BRj4-2BkAgKVm6lTkrExQ8W5kLSDSjZyX-2BAJ3q-2F4Yxfobz0RN-2FxOEwoSsbhxU4qwMizAQoIv0-3D" target="_blank">https://nebraskafamilies.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614131299888.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Families for Medical Cannabis&nbsp;LINCOLN — Still disappointed by last year’s decision by the Nebraska Supreme Court to remove medical cannabis from the 2020 ballot, parents of children with serious health conditions and other advocates called on Nebraska lawmakers to establish a compassionate medical cannabis program for patients and pass measures designed to improve the state’s ballot initiative process.&nbsp;Crista Eggers of Gretna, whose son suffers from intractable epilepsy, collected hundreds of signatures last year for the medical marijuana ballot initiative. Eggers called on lawmakers to have compassion for families like hers:“We collected over 196,000 signatures and did everything the right way. But in the end, the Nebraska Supreme Court just erased all of that hard work. There’s no question that voters would have approved the medical cannabis initiative, which would have helped my son and thousands of other patients who need relief in our state. If they have any conscience, our lawmakers will pass a compassionate law this session and reform what is clearly a broken ballot initiative system.”Nebraska Families for Medical Cannabis said they are supporting three bills, each introduced by state Senator Anna Wishart:<ul>
 <li>LB 474 would establish a program that allows patients with qualifying health conditions to safely and legally access medical cannabis with approval from their health care practitioner.&nbsp;</li><li>LB 475 would require the Attorney General to issue an opinion with respect to whether an initiative measure contains more than one subject before petition circulators begin collecting&nbsp;signatures.&nbsp;</li><li>LR 24CA would place a constitutional initiative on the 2022 ballot to amend the Nebraska Constitution’s “single-subject rule” to allow for broader and more lenient interpretation.</li>
 </ul>Many other directly-affected families and patient advocates attended the press conference, including Dominic Gillen, another Nebraskan parent whose child struggles with frequent seizures. Mr. Gillen said:“My family has been fighting for this for eight years. Last year we proved that the people of Nebraska are overwhelmingly on our side, but we were unfairly denied access to the ballot. Five justices decided voters shouldn’t be able to decide this issue, and now, just a handful of senators in this Capitol building are preventing my son from having a better quality of life. This is wrong. We need our lawmakers, who are supposed to represent us, to act now.”In July last year, backers of the medical cannabis initiative submitted over 196,000 signatures from Nebraskans to qualify the constitutional amendment for the ballot. Secretary of State Bob Evnen certified the measure, but the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled in favor of an opponent who filed a lawsuit claiming the initiative violated the state’s single subject rule for ballot referenda.In December 2020, the committee that supported the 2020 medical cannabis effort, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, filed a new petition to legalize medical cannabis through the 2022 ballot.&nbsp;Nebraska Families for Medical Cannabis is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to educate the public about the benefits of policies that allow for safe, legal access to medical cannabis for patients with serious health conditions. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUVraw9EETuL9D74-2FMOQUBEIPj3QNd1wrjwox4ZT3KEnYfory_fuR9JFio7W6cp4kNiRkGh1k-2FmpsIhZUxxJbweMbS6t4o4OCzKG6D2YgDDSADf1JlPWpn99Ec7NDKIdrh0XrWIzBa0LfdWuiapqVXRnePRa-2BKUWLT29Iuep5RcGBoqCXUKj1c3v4A1ZHV2MCdLXoHEHHxf3uDIRMOP4o9LN-2BWXK-2BLIAS47ZCD-2BgbTwrW6WC6BUsTzgwqw95XMdKhGfbOTIKdim-2FTGYzQp0C66EB5VN2RUNPjYTXMv6GPCW7AZmIaDoZfK6mMcFYcRQxcTdWs-2BvTtg6WV1lvgFJT2d-2BRj4-2BkAgKVm6lTkrExQ8W5kLSDSjZyX-2BAJ3q-2F4Yxfobz0RN-2FxOEwoSsbhxU4qwMizAQoIv0-3D" target="_blank">https://nebraskafamilies.org/</a>.

Nebraska pro-medical marijuana group calls on lawmakers to establish program, pass measures

After shipping delays due to weather prompted warnings of potential vaccine appointment cancellations, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) announced that their shipment did indeed arrive.


On February 22, 2021, WCDHD received a shipment of 1400
doses of the Moderna Vaccine. The shipment was for the weeks of
February 14, 2021 and February 21, 2021. 

“We are elated that we
have received our vaccine shipment and there are no cancellations
expected in the near future,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Executive
Director of West Central District Health Department. 


WCDHD says 200 of the 1400 doses received will be allocated to USave Pharmacy for distribution to
individuals who have already registered for the vaccine. 

The
remaining doses are allocated for first and second dose COVID-19
vaccine clinics scheduled by WCDHD through March 5, 2021. 

 In
addition, North Platte’s Walmart Pharmacy will receive 200 doses
this week from the Federal Pharmacy Program. Both USave Pharmacy and
Walmart will vaccinate those who have already registered with WCDHD.


According to officials, individuals who are registered with WCDHD, and within the current
priority groups, will receive an email with a link to choose
location, date and time for vaccine. Location sites will include
WCDHD, Walmart Pharmacy, and USave Pharmacy. Scheduling is based
on priority group and order of registration receipt. 


As a reminder, please refrain from
canceling COVID-19 vaccine appointments unless absolutely necessary.
Currently, WCDHD is booked through the end of March, so officials say to expect a
rescheduled appointment to be in April or later. 

WCDHD says for second dose
appointments needing to be rescheduled, there is a potential the appointment will not be rescheduled within the timeframe of 28 days
for Moderna and 21 days for Pfizer.  


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608677701818.png" alt="A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 on Dec. 14. Truman Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 on Dec. 14. Truman Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostAfter shipping delays due to weather prompted warnings of potential vaccine appointment cancellations, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) announced that their shipment did indeed arrive.
On February 22, 2021, WCDHD received a shipment of 1400
doses of the Moderna Vaccine. The shipment was for the weeks of
February 14, 2021 and February 21, 2021. “We are elated that we
have received our vaccine shipment and there are no cancellations
expected in the near future,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Executive
Director of West Central District Health Department. 
WCDHD says 200 of the 1400 doses received will be allocated to USave Pharmacy for distribution to
individuals who have already registered for the vaccine. The
remaining doses are allocated for first and second dose COVID-19
vaccine clinics scheduled by WCDHD through March 5, 2021. In
addition, North Platte’s Walmart Pharmacy will receive 200 doses
this week from the Federal Pharmacy Program. Both USave Pharmacy and
Walmart will vaccinate those who have already registered with WCDHD.
According to officials, individuals who are registered with WCDHD, and within the current
priority groups, will receive an email with a link to choose
location, date and time for vaccine. Location sites will include
WCDHD, Walmart Pharmacy, and USave Pharmacy. Scheduling is based
on priority group and order of registration receipt. 
As a reminder, please refrain from
canceling COVID-19 vaccine appointments unless absolutely necessary.
Currently, WCDHD is booked through the end of March, so officials say to expect a
rescheduled appointment to be in April or later. WCDHD says for second dose
appointments needing to be rescheduled, there is a potential the appointment will not be rescheduled within the timeframe of 28 days
for Moderna and 21 days for Pfizer.

WCDHD receives vaccine shipments, avoids many appointment cancellations

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The risk of flooding generally remains low across most of Nebraska and Iowa because the snow across both states is expected to melt gradually in the coming days.

But the amount of ice on some rivers, particularly the Platte River in eastern Nebraska, remains a concern because chunks of ice can create flooding as the it melts by creating ice jams that block the channel of the river. So officials will be watching how the ice melts closely.

National Weather Service hydrologist Dave Pearson said the threat of flooding in the area is never totally eliminated until all the ice on the rivers has melted. Even then, spring flooding is still possible in areas if heavy thunderstorms develop.

But this week's forecast for temperatures somewhat above freezing during the days and below freezing at night should allow the snow to melt gradually without causing too many problems, said meteorologist Allan Curtis with the Weather Service's Des Moines office.

Tuesday is expected to be the warmest day this week with highs in the 40s and 50s across much of both states. After that, the high temperatures aren't expected to be quite as warm in the next few days.

And no significant precipitation is expected for the rest of the week either.

The melting snow could also help ease drought conditions in some areas, and the dry soil should help absorb the water as the ground thaws out over the next couple weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611951126063.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The risk of flooding generally remains low across most of Nebraska and Iowa because the snow across both states is expected to melt gradually in the coming days.But the amount of ice on some rivers, particularly the Platte River in eastern Nebraska, remains a concern because chunks of ice can create flooding as the it melts by creating ice jams that block the channel of the river. So officials will be watching how the ice melts closely.National Weather Service hydrologist Dave Pearson said the threat of flooding in the area is never totally eliminated until all the ice on the rivers has melted. Even then, spring flooding is still possible in areas if heavy thunderstorms develop.But this week's forecast for temperatures somewhat above freezing during the days and below freezing at night should allow the snow to melt gradually without causing too many problems, said meteorologist Allan Curtis with the Weather Service's Des Moines office.Tuesday is expected to be the warmest day this week with highs in the 40s and 50s across much of both states. After that, the high temperatures aren't expected to be quite as warm in the next few days.And no significant precipitation is expected for the rest of the week either.The melting snow could also help ease drought conditions in some areas, and the dry soil should help absorb the water as the ground thaws out over the next couple weeks.

Flood risk appears low as snow is expected to melt gradually

By Larry Pape Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – Ice on Nebraska lakes is typical through February, but by the middle of March, cattails should be sprouting along shorelines and fish should be moving into warming shallow water. Beautiful spring days, perfect for fishing, could occur with little notice.

Be prepared to take advantage by having fishing gear at the ready. You could be rewarded with some of the year’s best fishing opportunities.

Spring means rainbow trout. Unlike many states with closed seasons for trout, those in Nebraska can angle for these year-round. Rainbows are stocked across Nebraska in the fall and then again in March to improve catch opportunities.

Nothing will solve your cabin fever better than an hour spent trout fishing on a spring day. A meal of freshly caught trout will be your reward. Make a plan on where to go and have rod and tackle in your vehicle. Stocking dates and locations will be posted in March at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMjMuMzU3NTYzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.dQ9vT_Z5z_n_FFodSvN4tcu3CcknC1kXJW5HiKxYCUo/s/1372948182/br/98213320884-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Soak up the sunshine. When the sun feels warm for you, it is also likely the same for fish. On warming spring days, bluegill and bass will move into shallow bays to bask and feed. Take advantage of city park ponds for last-minute angling trips. Plan for a quick lunch-break or on-the-way-home-from-work angling adventure. If a warm weekend is forecast, plan a little longer trip to a state park or wildlife management area lake. A small jig or fly that is fished shallow and slowly under a bobber are convenient tackle to have at the ready. Fly fishing gear and techniques are particularly well suited for bluegills in shallow water.

The key to taking advantage of warm spring days is to plan ahead. Dig your fishing gear out and clean and restring it now. Pack a small tackle kit with the basic essentials: a few hooks, bobbers, weights, a couple of small, flashy lures and non-perishable bait. Include a small cooler, because bluegill or trout from cold spring water are delicious. Put this all in your vehicle now.

Devise a plan by picking locations and times that will work when the sun finally peeks out. The 2021 Fishing Guide, online or paper edition, lists several hundred Public Fishing Areas. The Game and Parks website has a variety of maps with different fishing options.

Don’t forget your fishing permit, Fishing Guide, Fishing Forecast and fish identification book. Get these now while you are thinking about it. Persons 16 and older are required to have a fishing permit, which can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMjMuMzU3NTYzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.McTMfZE813l_zgUHhHFtVFWSoPYjALrWYILR0V7kNkk/s/1372948182/br/98213320884-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or at participating permits vendors. Permits can be displayed as a paper copy or on a mobile electronic device.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614098399610.png" alt="Dennis Ahl of Fairbury fly fishes the trout lake at Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Douglas County on a March day in 2017. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Ahl of Fairbury fly fishes the trout lake at Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Douglas County on a March day in 2017. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Larry Pape Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionLINCOLN, Neb. – Ice on Nebraska lakes is typical through February, but by the middle of March, cattails should be sprouting along shorelines and fish should be moving into warming shallow water. Beautiful spring days, perfect for fishing, could occur with little notice.Be prepared to take advantage by having fishing gear at the ready. You could be rewarded with some of the year’s best fishing opportunities.Spring means rainbow trout. Unlike many states with closed seasons for trout, those in Nebraska can angle for these year-round. Rainbows are stocked across Nebraska in the fall and then again in March to improve catch opportunities.Nothing will solve your cabin fever better than an hour spent trout fishing on a spring day. A meal of freshly caught trout will be your reward. Make a plan on where to go and have rod and tackle in your vehicle. Stocking dates and locations will be posted in March at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMjMuMzU3NTYzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.dQ9vT_Z5z_n_FFodSvN4tcu3CcknC1kXJW5HiKxYCUo/s/1372948182/br/98213320884-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.Soak up the sunshine. When the sun feels warm for you, it is also likely the same for fish. On warming spring days, bluegill and bass will move into shallow bays to bask and feed. Take advantage of city park ponds for last-minute angling trips. Plan for a quick lunch-break or on-the-way-home-from-work angling adventure. If a warm weekend is forecast, plan a little longer trip to a state park or wildlife management area lake. A small jig or fly that is fished shallow and slowly under a bobber are convenient tackle to have at the ready. Fly fishing gear and techniques are particularly well suited for bluegills in shallow water.The key to taking advantage of warm spring days is to plan ahead. Dig your fishing gear out and clean and restring it now. Pack a small tackle kit with the basic essentials: a few hooks, bobbers, weights, a couple of small, flashy lures and non-perishable bait. Include a small cooler, because bluegill or trout from cold spring water are delicious. Put this all in your vehicle now.Devise a plan by picking locations and times that will work when the sun finally peeks out. The 2021 Fishing Guide, online or paper edition, lists several hundred Public Fishing Areas. The Game and Parks website has a variety of maps with different fishing options.Don’t forget your fishing permit, Fishing Guide, Fishing Forecast and fish identification book. Get these now while you are thinking about it. Persons 16 and older are required to have a fishing permit, which can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMjMuMzU3NTYzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.McTMfZE813l_zgUHhHFtVFWSoPYjALrWYILR0V7kNkk/s/1372948182/br/98213320884-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or at participating permits vendors. Permits can be displayed as a paper copy or on a mobile electronic device.

Get ready now for spring trout fishing

News Release Nebraska State Patrol

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) arrested a California man and seized more than 25 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop in Dawson County.

At approximately 6:15 p.m., Friday, February 19, a trooper observed a Hyundai Azera fail to stop at a stop sign after exiting Interstate 80 at the Overton interchange, at mile marker 248. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.&nbsp;

A search of the vehicle revealed 26 packages inside a duffel bag in the trunk. 25 of the packages contained methamphetamine, with a total weight of 26 pounds. The final package contained .3 pounds of pills, suspected to contain fentanyl.

The driver, Octavio Padilla-Garcia, 35, of Los Angeles, California, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and no drug tax stamp. Padilla-Garcia was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614101987327.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska State PatrolNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) arrested a California man and seized more than 25 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop in Dawson County.At approximately 6:15 p.m., Friday, February 19, a trooper observed a Hyundai Azera fail to stop at a stop sign after exiting Interstate 80 at the Overton interchange, at mile marker 248. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.&nbsp;A search of the vehicle revealed 26 packages inside a duffel bag in the trunk. 25 of the packages contained methamphetamine, with a total weight of 26 pounds. The final package contained .3 pounds of pills, suspected to contain fentanyl.The driver, Octavio Padilla-Garcia, 35, of Los Angeles, California, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and no drug tax stamp. Padilla-Garcia was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

Troopers seize 26 pounds of meth, fentanyl in Dawson County stop

Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement regarding Executive Order 14008, also known as the “Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.” &nbsp;It was signed by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. on January 27, 2021.

“Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers are our state’s original conservationists.&nbsp; They work day in and day out to cultivate the land and manage water they’ve known for generations in a way that helps grow our state.&nbsp; With a new administration taking office, Nebraskans should be on the lookout in their communities for attempts by federal agencies and their partners to regulate land and water use.&nbsp; We are already seeing big changes in how the federal government is approaching energy, climate, and conservation issues.”

“From canceling the presidential permit for the Keystone XL pipeline to rejoining the Paris Agreement, the Biden Administration has taken a number of actions that harm our national security, energy independence, and working American families.&nbsp; I am especially troubled by President Biden’s recent executive order on climate.&nbsp; The executive order blocks significant amounts of oil and gas development and outlines far-reaching plans to lock away staggering portions of our nation’s land and natural resources.”

“In particular, I want to draw the attention of Nebraskans to the executive order’s goal of restricting ‘at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030.’&nbsp; Federal interventions that purport to aim at conservation or that regulate land and natural resource uses are only likely to hurt agriculture and to hinder growth in our economy.&nbsp; Nebraska will stand up against federal government overreach to protect our family farms and our way of life.&nbsp; Just as we defeated President Obama’s Waters of the U.S. regulation, we will work together to stop new federal overreach.”

In response to President Biden’s recent Executive Order, Governor Ricketts has signed a letter along with 16 other Governors.&nbsp; A copy of the letter can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fsh%2Fwve7i4k08u3a1u1%2FAAAUtG_b-W6ULnD1I5W4aDfSa%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6f22d735c1ae42edaf4e08d8d78974bb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637496332654374672%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=iRXQgS0RhBBP8J0beb2csY5RqaHH8l6nX9a9uQu0u2I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="Governor Ricketts" />
 <figcaption>Governor Ricketts</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor Ricketts OfficeGovernor Pete Ricketts issued a statement regarding Executive Order 14008, also known as the “Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.” &nbsp;It was signed by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. on January 27, 2021.“Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers are our state’s original conservationists.&nbsp; They work day in and day out to cultivate the land and manage water they’ve known for generations in a way that helps grow our state.&nbsp; With a new administration taking office, Nebraskans should be on the lookout in their communities for attempts by federal agencies and their partners to regulate land and water use.&nbsp; We are already seeing big changes in how the federal government is approaching energy, climate, and conservation issues.”“From canceling the presidential permit for the Keystone XL pipeline to rejoining the Paris Agreement, the Biden Administration has taken a number of actions that harm our national security, energy independence, and working American families.&nbsp; I am especially troubled by President Biden’s recent executive order on climate.&nbsp; The executive order blocks significant amounts of oil and gas development and outlines far-reaching plans to lock away staggering portions of our nation’s land and natural resources.”“In particular, I want to draw the attention of Nebraskans to the executive order’s goal of restricting ‘at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030.’&nbsp; Federal interventions that purport to aim at conservation or that regulate land and natural resource uses are only likely to hurt agriculture and to hinder growth in our economy.&nbsp; Nebraska will stand up against federal government overreach to protect our family farms and our way of life.&nbsp; Just as we defeated President Obama’s Waters of the U.S. regulation, we will work together to stop new federal overreach.”In response to President Biden’s recent Executive Order, Governor Ricketts has signed a letter along with 16 other Governors.&nbsp; A copy of the letter can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fsh%2Fwve7i4k08u3a1u1%2FAAAUtG_b-W6ULnD1I5W4aDfSa%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6f22d735c1ae42edaf4e08d8d78974bb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637496332654374672%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=iRXQgS0RhBBP8J0beb2csY5RqaHH8l6nX9a9uQu0u2I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts warns against federal overreach on energy, climate issues

A new North Platte Community College Foundation Auction House went up for bid Monday.

Students in the college’s Building Construction, Electrical and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) Technology programs build a house from the ground up every year to gain hands-on, real-world experience.

The homes are then sold via silent auction, and proceeds are used to fund scholarships for students in the building trades.

This year’s three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home was custom-made to conform to high performance standards. It measures out at 1,886-square-feet and features an open concept design throughout the living room, dining room and kitchen.

Pella Proline windows offer exceptional energy efficiency as does the R46/R38 insulation in the ceilings and R21 insulation in the 6-inch sidewalls.

Energy saving LED lighting is installed throughout the house, and the LP SmartSide siding, which is resistant to rot, termites and mold, comes with a 30-year finish warranty. There is also a 30-year warranty on the shingles.

Some of the aesthetic highlights include:

The home is wired for cable and telephones. The buyer will be responsible for appliances, the electrical meter, main service disconnect, water heater, furnace and any heat or energy recovery ventilation systems.

The house is located on NPCC’s North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte. Tours can be scheduled through the North Campus Welcome Center by calling (308) 535-3601.

The minimum bid will be set at $147,500. The highest bid will be posted online throughout the duration of the auction.

Bids can be called in to (308) 535-3672 or emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:empfieldo@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">empfieldo@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;until noon April 1. Bids submitted after that time must be dropped off in-person to Room 203 of the W.W. Wood Building on NPCC’s North Campus. Bidding will close completely at 2 p.m. April 1.

Bid forms are available at all Mid-Plains Community College Campus Welcome Center locations, including those in McCook, Broken Bow, Imperial and Valentine. They can also be accessed online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/community/house-auction" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/community/house-auction</a>.

More information about the bidding process is available through Oksana Empfield, (308) 535-3672 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:empfieldo@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">empfieldo@mpcc.edu</a>.

Those interested in more information about the construction of the house can contact Roger Fattig, building construction instructor, at (308) 535-3646, or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fattigr@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">fattigr@mpcc.edu</a>.

The final payment on the house must be received by 2 p.m. Aug. 2, and the house must be removed from college property by 5 p.m. Aug. 2. Further details regarding the house, the auction and other processes can be found on the college’s website at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/community/house-auction" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/community/house-auction</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614050963131.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCA new North Platte Community College Foundation Auction House went up for bid Monday.Students in the college’s Building Construction, Electrical and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) Technology programs build a house from the ground up every year to gain hands-on, real-world experience.The homes are then sold via silent auction, and proceeds are used to fund scholarships for students in the building trades.House Features:This year’s three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home was custom-made to conform to high performance standards. It measures out at 1,886-square-feet and features an open concept design throughout the living room, dining room and kitchen.Pella Proline windows offer exceptional energy efficiency as does the R46/R38 insulation in the ceilings and R21 insulation in the 6-inch sidewalls.Energy saving LED lighting is installed throughout the house, and the LP SmartSide siding, which is resistant to rot, termites and mold, comes with a 30-year finish warranty. There is also a 30-year warranty on the shingles.Some of the aesthetic highlights include:<ul>
 <li>A Versetta Stone accent on front</li><li>Rollex aluminum soffit and fascia</li><li>Arch windows above the front triple casement window and rear French door</li><li>Entrance and slide lights with Craftsman pattern glass</li><li>A cathedral ceiling in the living room and dining room</li><li>Solid hardwood 3/4-inch flooring in the kitchen, living and dining areas and hallways</li><li>Raised-panel tawny hickory cabinets</li><li>Granite countertops</li><li>Two pantries</li><li>A large peninsula with snack area</li><li>An outside-vented range hood</li><li>Stained oak trim throughout</li><li>Three panel oak interior doors</li><li>Carpeted bedrooms</li><li>A large walk-in closet in the master bedroom</li><li>A spacious master shower with full ceramic tile enclosure</li><li>A mudroom with laundry space and a powder room next to an optional garage</li>
 </ul>The home is wired for cable and telephones. The buyer will be responsible for appliances, the electrical meter, main service disconnect, water heater, furnace and any heat or energy recovery ventilation systems.The house is located on NPCC’s North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte. Tours can be scheduled through the North Campus Welcome Center by calling (308) 535-3601.The minimum bid will be set at $147,500. The highest bid will be posted online throughout the duration of the auction.Bids can be called in to (308) 535-3672 or emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:empfieldo@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">empfieldo@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;until noon April 1. Bids submitted after that time must be dropped off in-person to Room 203 of the W.W. Wood Building on NPCC’s North Campus. Bidding will close completely at 2 p.m. April 1.Bid forms are available at all Mid-Plains Community College Campus Welcome Center locations, including those in McCook, Broken Bow, Imperial and Valentine. They can also be accessed online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/community/house-auction" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/community/house-auction</a>.More information about the bidding process is available through Oksana Empfield, (308) 535-3672 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:empfieldo@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">empfieldo@mpcc.edu</a>.Those interested in more information about the construction of the house can contact Roger Fattig, building construction instructor, at (308) 535-3646, or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fattigr@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">fattigr@mpcc.edu</a>.The final payment on the house must be received by 2 p.m. Aug. 2, and the house must be removed from college property by 5 p.m. Aug. 2. Further details regarding the house, the auction and other processes can be found on the college’s website at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/community/house-auction" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/community/house-auction</a>.

Bids open on NPCC Foundation Auction House

News Release Drug Enforcement Agency

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614099499921.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Drug Enforcement Agency
Marijuana
and methamphetamine were the top two drugs seized by Drug
Enforcement
Administration (DEA) investigators in Nebraska in 2020, with 2.5
kilograms of fentanyl, or the equivalent of one-and-a-half million
lethal doses, also making its presence known across the state.
Methamphetamine
seizures jumped 68 percent in 2020, while marijuana seizures were
more than six times higher than what was found in 2019. Last year,
agents from the DEA Omaha Division Office seized 421 pounds of
methamphetamine and 4,644 pounds of marijuana. Combined, these drugs
have a street value of approximately $13.3 million.
Multi-pound
methamphetamine seizures have become more common in Nebraska as
demand for the highly potent Mexican product continues to rise. In
2020, DEA took off 38 pounds of methamphetamine in one event, six
pounds more than the single seizure high of 2019, of 32 pounds.
“Last
year’s drug trends were interesting to follow as drug trafficking
organizations adjusted to the COVID pandemic by changing prices and
finding new ways to push their dangerous products into Nebraska,”
Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Justin C. King said.
In
addition to marijuana and methamphetamine, agents seized
approximately 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl last year with an additional
1,000 fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills also collected by agents.
Fentanyl is up to100 times more potent than morphine. A lethal dose
of fentanyl is two milligrams, or the equivalent of a few grains of
salt.
“We’ve
seen a jump in fentanyl and counterfeit pills across our five state
Division,” SAC King said. “We want to make people aware of the
fact that pills purchased off of the street should be considered
incredibly dangerous and potentially lethal. The makers of
counterfeit pills are not careful or precise in their measurements.
One pill may have 1 milligram of fentanyl, while another from the
same batch may have 3 milligrams, or enough to kill a person. The
only prescription medication people should be taking is one that
comes directly from a pharmacy or licensed physician.”
Cocaine
was the third most commonly seized drug in Nebraska, although numbers
dropped slightly from 2019 to 2020.
The
DEA Omaha Division is a five state territory that includes Iowa,
Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota as well as
counties along the western border of Illinois and Wisconsin.

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