NORFOLK, Neb. (AP) - One of Union Pacific's main unions is threatening to strike if the railroad doesn't do more to protect its employees from the coronavirus.

The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division union said the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad needs to offer its more than 30,000 employees full pay if they have to quarantine because of exposure to the virus, and it wants UP to bolster safety precautions in the workplace.

"The working conditions created by UP's COVID-19 protocols have created a work site that is immediately hazardous to the life and health of our members," Tony Caldwell, the union's general chairman, said in a letter to UP management.

Union Pacific maintains that it is taking appropriate precautions to protect workers from the virus, and it has gone to court to block the union from striking because it says the dispute should be resolved through collective bargaining. The railroad argues that a strike would unfairly harm the companies that rely on the railroad for shipping.

"We have worked hard to ensure the safety of our employees, while continuing to move the goods and products that our country needs to support current freight demands and recover from the pandemic," Union Pacific spokeswoman Elizabeth Graham said. "We implemented a robust pandemic response to ensure that our employees remain safe and are compensated if required to be off of work because of a work-related exposure to the virus."

A federal judge is set to hear arguments Wednesday over whether the union should be allowed to strike.

The union said Union Pacific employees that have to quarantine themselves because they have been exposed to the virus aren't being paid their full wages, and the railroad may not pay employees if they have to quarantine themselves multiple times, so there is an incentive to continue coming to work even when sick.

The union, which represents about 8,000 Union Pacific employees, also said the railroad should also offer coronavirus testing regularly at its work sites, screen employees' temperatures before they start work and do more to ensure social distancing.

Jed Dodd, the union's national vice president, said the group has similar concerns about virus precautions at the other major railroads, but it decided to press the issue first with Union Pacific.

Union Pacific is one of the nation's largest railroads, and it operates 32,400 miles (52,000 kilometers) of track in 23 Western states.

By JOSH FUNK-Associated Press NORFOLK, Neb. (AP) - One of Union Pacific's main unions is threatening to strike if the railroad doesn't do more to protect its employees from the coronavirus.The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division union said the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad needs to offer its more than 30,000 employees full pay if they have to quarantine because of exposure to the virus, and it wants UP to bolster safety precautions in the workplace."The working conditions created by UP's COVID-19 protocols have created a work site that is immediately hazardous to the life and health of our members," Tony Caldwell, the union's general chairman, said in a letter to UP management.Union Pacific maintains that it is taking appropriate precautions to protect workers from the virus, and it has gone to court to block the union from striking because it says the dispute should be resolved through collective bargaining. The railroad argues that a strike would unfairly harm the companies that rely on the railroad for shipping."We have worked hard to ensure the safety of our employees, while continuing to move the goods and products that our country needs to support current freight demands and recover from the pandemic," Union Pacific spokeswoman Elizabeth Graham said. "We implemented a robust pandemic response to ensure that our employees remain safe and are compensated if required to be off of work because of a work-related exposure to the virus."A federal judge is set to hear arguments Wednesday over whether the union should be allowed to strike.The union said Union Pacific employees that have to quarantine themselves because they have been exposed to the virus aren't being paid their full wages, and the railroad may not pay employees if they have to quarantine themselves multiple times, so there is an incentive to continue coming to work even when sick.The union, which represents about 8,000 Union Pacific employees, also said the railroad should also offer coronavirus testing regularly at its work sites, screen employees' temperatures before they start work and do more to ensure social distancing.Jed Dodd, the union's national vice president, said the group has similar concerns about virus precautions at the other major railroads, but it decided to press the issue first with Union Pacific.Union Pacific is one of the nation's largest railroads, and it operates 32,400 miles (52,000 kilometers) of track in 23 Western states.

Union threatens to strike over Union Pacific's virus protections

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

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Winds up to 60 mph expected in North Platte tonight

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Health officials say it's important to remain vigilant about social distancing to limit the spread of the coronavirus even though vaccines have started to be administered and the state's virus numbers have improved recently.

Douglas County Health Director Adi Pour said the arrival of vaccines this month offers hope, but it will be some time before enough people have been vaccinated to make a difference in the pandemic.

"Until 60% to 70% of the community is vaccinated, you still need to wear the mask, you still need to have social distancing, you still need to take all of those precautions," Pour said.

Over the past several weeks, the virus numbers have been improving in Nebraska. The rate of people being infected with the virus went from the fifth-highest in the nation early this month to the 29th-highest rate on Monday.&nbsp;

The state said the number of people hospitalized with the virus remained unchanged Monday at 582. That is significantly lower than the peak of 987 set on Nov. 20 although it is still more than 2.5 times higher than it was on Oct. 1.

Nebraska reported 721 new cases of the virus and 25 deaths Monday to give the state 157,103 cases and 1,511 deaths since the pandemic began

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Health officials say it's important to remain vigilant about social distancing to limit the spread of the coronavirus even though vaccines have started to be administered and the state's virus numbers have improved recently.Douglas County Health Director Adi Pour said the arrival of vaccines this month offers hope, but it will be some time before enough people have been vaccinated to make a difference in the pandemic."Until 60% to 70% of the community is vaccinated, you still need to wear the mask, you still need to have social distancing, you still need to take all of those precautions," Pour said.Over the past several weeks, the virus numbers have been improving in Nebraska. The rate of people being infected with the virus went from the fifth-highest in the nation early this month to the 29th-highest rate on Monday.&nbsp;The state said the number of people hospitalized with the virus remained unchanged Monday at 582. That is significantly lower than the peak of 987 set on Nov. 20 although it is still more than 2.5 times higher than it was on Oct. 1.Nebraska reported 721 new cases of the virus and 25 deaths Monday to give the state 157,103 cases and 1,511 deaths since the pandemic began

Officials urge Nebraskans to remain vigilant in virus fight

Christmas and New Year’s Day are welcome opportunities to slow down, connect with loved ones, and look forward to 2021.&nbsp; As we approach the year’s end, I am thankful for the many sacrifices Nebraskans have made in 2020.&nbsp; Despite many difficulties, our state’s residents have displayed inspiring strength and compassion during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Healthcare workers have done heroic work this year to keep people healthy.&nbsp; Families have adjusted their routines to protect elderly or at-risk loved ones in their households.&nbsp; Businesses have found creative ways to keep the doors open and lights on to serve customers.&nbsp; Places of worship have provided innovative opportunities for their congregations to come together during the pandemic.&nbsp; Teachers have pulled double duty, providing instruction both in-person and for remote learners.&nbsp; Child care centers have adopted rigorous health protocols to continue serving families.&nbsp; These are just a few of the ways Nebraskans have risen to the challenge in 2020.&nbsp;

Through it all, Nebraskans have been committed to slowing the spread of the virus.&nbsp; This has helped us to protect our hospitals as they care for coronavirus patients.&nbsp; Coronavirus-related hospitalizations in Nebraska continue to decline.&nbsp; They’re down more than 40% since peaking on November 20, 2020.&nbsp; We moved below 15% of staffed hospital beds with coronavirus patients on December 17th.&nbsp; If the percentage is under 15% for seven days (rolling average), we’ll move from the “yellow” to “blue” phase of our pandemic response plan.&nbsp; If this happens, we’ll adjust our DHMs again in keeping with the plan.&nbsp; A chart listing the restrictions within each color-coded phase of the plan is available through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/DHM-Measure-Table-ENGLISH.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

As we gather over the holidays to celebrate, let’s think about how to guard against the spread of the virus.&nbsp; Wear a mask when you shop.&nbsp; Limit the size of parties and gatherings.&nbsp; Keep plenty of distance between people.&nbsp; Keep good ventilation indoors, for example, by opening windows to increase air flow if you can.&nbsp; If you get sick, isolate yourself to protect loved ones.

If you plan to visit family, consider getting a test through Test Nebraska. &nbsp;Taking a test can detect the virus, even if you don’t have symptoms.&nbsp; This can help you avoid inadvertently passing the virus to loved ones.&nbsp; Test Nebraska lab services will be uninterrupted over the holidays.&nbsp; Test Nebraska test sites will close at 5:00 pm on Christmas Eve and be closed on Christmas Day.&nbsp; They will be open on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.&nbsp; Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2Fen&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6dfd8620a3e74b2f31c008d8a6050e20%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637441887924258284%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=AYy6GErCZDoD2cqvvAX9xM%2Fcca1siTv1%2BVRwwIZs6Jw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to take a brief health assessment and schedule a time to get tested.&nbsp; Test Nebraska continues to deliver results less than 48 hours after the initial swab.

The holidays won’t pause Nebraska’s vaccination efforts.&nbsp; We expect about 32,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine to arrive this week. &nbsp;We’ll use them to immunize healthcare workers in our Phase 1A priority group. &nbsp;

We’ve also prioritized long-term care residents and staff in Phase 1A to ensure they get vaccinated quickly. &nbsp;Between this week and next week, we expect 23,400 doses of Pfizer’s vaccine to arrive to Nebraska. &nbsp;These doses will be used by pharmacies to vaccinate long-term care facility residents and staff, starting the week of December 28th.&nbsp; To view the State of Nebraska’s COVID-19 vaccination plan, including the list of groups prioritized for vaccination, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf</a>.

Coronavirus vaccination has begun nationwide, and the vaccines have proven to be safe. &nbsp;This confirms data from extensive clinical trials, which also demonstrated the safety of both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. &nbsp;I encourage Nebraskans who’ve been immunized to share their experience with family, friends, and neighbors.&nbsp; It’s important for everyone to know that the vaccines are very safe and highly effective.

If you have questions about coronavirus vaccination, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; I encourage everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they can after they become eligible so that we can put an end to the pandemic. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Before I sign off, I want to wish a merry Christmas to our military servicemen and women on deployment.&nbsp; We appreciate your sacrifice and pray for your safe return home to family and friends.&nbsp; And thanks to the many healthcare workers who will spend Christmas and New Year’s Day at the hospital, faithfully caring for those who are ill.&nbsp; Let’s support these men and women on the frontlines of the pandemic by remembering to use our tools to slow the spread of the virus over the holidays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579024294426.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsChristmas and New Year’s Day are welcome opportunities to slow down, connect with loved ones, and look forward to 2021.&nbsp; As we approach the year’s end, I am thankful for the many sacrifices Nebraskans have made in 2020.&nbsp; Despite many difficulties, our state’s residents have displayed inspiring strength and compassion during the pandemic.&nbsp;Healthcare workers have done heroic work this year to keep people healthy.&nbsp; Families have adjusted their routines to protect elderly or at-risk loved ones in their households.&nbsp; Businesses have found creative ways to keep the doors open and lights on to serve customers.&nbsp; Places of worship have provided innovative opportunities for their congregations to come together during the pandemic.&nbsp; Teachers have pulled double duty, providing instruction both in-person and for remote learners.&nbsp; Child care centers have adopted rigorous health protocols to continue serving families.&nbsp; These are just a few of the ways Nebraskans have risen to the challenge in 2020.&nbsp;Through it all, Nebraskans have been committed to slowing the spread of the virus.&nbsp; This has helped us to protect our hospitals as they care for coronavirus patients.&nbsp; Coronavirus-related hospitalizations in Nebraska continue to decline.&nbsp; They’re down more than 40% since peaking on November 20, 2020.&nbsp; We moved below 15% of staffed hospital beds with coronavirus patients on December 17th.&nbsp; If the percentage is under 15% for seven days (rolling average), we’ll move from the “yellow” to “blue” phase of our pandemic response plan.&nbsp; If this happens, we’ll adjust our DHMs again in keeping with the plan.&nbsp; A chart listing the restrictions within each color-coded phase of the plan is available through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/DHM-Measure-Table-ENGLISH.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.As we gather over the holidays to celebrate, let’s think about how to guard against the spread of the virus.&nbsp; Wear a mask when you shop.&nbsp; Limit the size of parties and gatherings.&nbsp; Keep plenty of distance between people.&nbsp; Keep good ventilation indoors, for example, by opening windows to increase air flow if you can.&nbsp; If you get sick, isolate yourself to protect loved ones.If you plan to visit family, consider getting a test through Test Nebraska. &nbsp;Taking a test can detect the virus, even if you don’t have symptoms.&nbsp; This can help you avoid inadvertently passing the virus to loved ones.&nbsp; Test Nebraska lab services will be uninterrupted over the holidays.&nbsp; Test Nebraska test sites will close at 5:00 pm on Christmas Eve and be closed on Christmas Day.&nbsp; They will be open on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.&nbsp; Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2Fen&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6dfd8620a3e74b2f31c008d8a6050e20%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637441887924258284%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=AYy6GErCZDoD2cqvvAX9xM%2Fcca1siTv1%2BVRwwIZs6Jw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to take a brief health assessment and schedule a time to get tested.&nbsp; Test Nebraska continues to deliver results less than 48 hours after the initial swab.The holidays won’t pause Nebraska’s vaccination efforts.&nbsp; We expect about 32,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine to arrive this week. &nbsp;We’ll use them to immunize healthcare workers in our Phase 1A priority group. &nbsp;We’ve also prioritized long-term care residents and staff in Phase 1A to ensure they get vaccinated quickly. &nbsp;Between this week and next week, we expect 23,400 doses of Pfizer’s vaccine to arrive to Nebraska. &nbsp;These doses will be used by pharmacies to vaccinate long-term care facility residents and staff, starting the week of December 28th.&nbsp; To view the State of Nebraska’s COVID-19 vaccination plan, including the list of groups prioritized for vaccination, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf</a>.Coronavirus vaccination has begun nationwide, and the vaccines have proven to be safe. &nbsp;This confirms data from extensive clinical trials, which also demonstrated the safety of both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. &nbsp;I encourage Nebraskans who’ve been immunized to share their experience with family, friends, and neighbors.&nbsp; It’s important for everyone to know that the vaccines are very safe and highly effective.If you have questions about coronavirus vaccination, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; I encourage everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they can after they become eligible so that we can put an end to the pandemic. &nbsp;&nbsp;Before I sign off, I want to wish a merry Christmas to our military servicemen and women on deployment.&nbsp; We appreciate your sacrifice and pray for your safe return home to family and friends.&nbsp; And thanks to the many healthcare workers who will spend Christmas and New Year’s Day at the hospital, faithfully caring for those who are ill.&nbsp; Let’s support these men and women on the frontlines of the pandemic by remembering to use our tools to slow the spread of the virus over the holidays.

COLUMN Gov. Ricketts: Merry Christmas and a happy healthy New Year

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A Lincoln doctor who works for the Nebraska National Guard expressed optimism Monday that the pandemic is nearing an end as vaccine shipments arrive, but he warned that the state's situation will remain "very tenuous" until doses are widely available.

Dr. Kevin Reichmuth, a pulmonologist, made the comments as he sought to dispel myths that have circulated on social media about the new coronavirus vaccines. Reichmuth was among the first Nebraska residents to get vaccinated for the coronavirus last week.

"This has opened a light at the end of the tunnel, but we still have a long tunnel to go through," he said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We have some very tenuous times coming up here in the next several months, and all of those things up until this vaccine becoming widely available are going to be critical."

Reichmuth spoke as part of an effort to correct inaccurate claims about the new vaccines, including claims that they cause infertility, contain a microchip and trigger genetic changes in those who get them.

Ricketts said more than 8,700 people in Nebraska have received their initial doses already. The vaccinations are given in two doses, separated by three to four weeks to be fully effective. Ricketts said he asked Reichmuth to speak publicly because his office has received a lot of questions about the vaccines, which are safe and very effective.

The state's infection figures improved on Sunday, with 582 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, down from 598 the day before. That number has been steadily declining since setting a record of 987 on Nov. 20, but it remains more than 2.5 times higher than what it was on Oct. 1.

Currently, 14% of the state's hospital beds are occupied by COVID-19 patients. If the seven-day rolling average of that figure remains below 15%, the state may further relax its social distancing restrictions.

Nebraska reported 967 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and 11 new deaths on Sunday, raising its totals since the pandemic started to 156,382 cases and 1,486 deaths.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A Lincoln doctor who works for the Nebraska National Guard expressed optimism Monday that the pandemic is nearing an end as vaccine shipments arrive, but he warned that the state's situation will remain "very tenuous" until doses are widely available.Dr. Kevin Reichmuth, a pulmonologist, made the comments as he sought to dispel myths that have circulated on social media about the new coronavirus vaccines. Reichmuth was among the first Nebraska residents to get vaccinated for the coronavirus last week."This has opened a light at the end of the tunnel, but we still have a long tunnel to go through," he said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We have some very tenuous times coming up here in the next several months, and all of those things up until this vaccine becoming widely available are going to be critical."Reichmuth spoke as part of an effort to correct inaccurate claims about the new vaccines, including claims that they cause infertility, contain a microchip and trigger genetic changes in those who get them.Ricketts said more than 8,700 people in Nebraska have received their initial doses already. The vaccinations are given in two doses, separated by three to four weeks to be fully effective. Ricketts said he asked Reichmuth to speak publicly because his office has received a lot of questions about the vaccines, which are safe and very effective.The state's infection figures improved on Sunday, with 582 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, down from 598 the day before. That number has been steadily declining since setting a record of 987 on Nov. 20, but it remains more than 2.5 times higher than what it was on Oct. 1.Currently, 14% of the state's hospital beds are occupied by COVID-19 patients. If the seven-day rolling average of that figure remains below 15%, the state may further relax its social distancing restrictions.Nebraska reported 967 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and 11 new deaths on Sunday, raising its totals since the pandemic started to 156,382 cases and 1,486 deaths.

Nebraska doctor urges continued caution as vaccines roll out

Two Mid-Plains Community College instructors will be recognized at the national level for demonstrating excellence in teaching.

Jimi Cole, business instructor in North Platte, and Cathy Howard, speech and English adjunct instructor in Imperial,&nbsp;were selected to receive NISOD’s Excellence in Teaching award based on their outstanding commitment and contributions to higher education.

“Receiving the NISOD Excellence in Teaching Award is a very high honor for instructors at MPCC, and I am so pleased to be able to recognize both Jimi and Cathy for their hard work,” said Dr. Jody Tomanek, area vice president of academic affairs and NPCC. “They are two of our best instructors, who put in endless hours and are always willing to help out when we need them.”

“It’s a great honor,” Cole said. “I’m still kind of trying to believe that I was chosen. I never thought I would be in teaching, and I definitely never thought I would win an award for it.”

Cole was headed down a completely different career path up until six years ago. Originally from Arnold, Cole did a variety of jobs within the medical industry including working as an office supervisor, coding, billing and medical transcription. She also substitute taught before hiring on with MPCC as a full-time instructor in 2015.

“I felt like I could bring the industry into the classroom a bit,” Cole said. “Books can only teach so much – especially when it comes to coding and billing and dealing with patients at the front desk. I can give students real-life examples of things that can happen and explain how to handle them.”

That personal experience not only makes her relatable, it also keeps her classes engaged.

“I try to make learning as close to the real world as possible,” Cole said. “I give students case scenarios where they have to read actual physician notes, decipher codes and do the transcription and proofreading. The goal is to make them employable.”

That “Aha!” moment when students understand a concept, coupled with their appreciation for learning are what continue to keep her in the field of higher education.

“It’s the little things – like at the end of the semester when I get a heartfelt, ‘Thank you for pushing me and encouraging me to believe in myself,’ or ‘I couldn’t have done this without you,’ – those are the things that make me grateful to be where I am, doing what I do,” Cole said. “That’s what makes me proud to be a teacher.”

Howard spent her entire career teaching. Her first job was as a teaching assistant in the English department at Colorado State University. Howard also taught in Watford City, N.D., Sundance, Wyo. and Bridgeport, Neb. before moving to Imperial.

She began working at Chase County High School, in Imperial, in the fall of 1980, teaching speech and English classes and serving as the speech team coach and play director. In 2005, she also began teaching a summer speech class for MPCC.

“It wasn’t much of a change from what I had been doing,” Howard said of the move to higher education. “I was a tough teacher at the high school and had been teaching at the college, or at least precollege, level all along. I wanted students to be prepared when they took that next step.”

Howard retired from the high school in 2009 but has continued to teach for Mid-Plains ever since. Most of her students are dual credit, and she has noticed benefits to having the high school students mix with non-traditional students in a college setting.

“They get to see others who really view education as a value not a burden,” Howard said. “That’s important.”

No matter their age, Howard’s goal is always to shape her students into better communicators who look for the good in life. To encourage that, she has all of them draw the name of a classmate at the beginning of class. On the last day, they give a speech about the person whose name they drew – honoring that classmate for his or her accomplishments or for something else they think the awardee would like to be recognized for.

“Regardless of the contact they have with a person, or how long they have that contact, every bit of it should be positive,” Howard said. “I would hope that my students pass that on.”

Despite stressing recognition among her students, the NISOD recognition for her own achievements caught her off guard.

“I was kind of surprised by it,” Howard said. “I’ve never gotten any kind of award before, but I appreciate that MPCC always makes an effort to include adjuncts in the sweep of things and lets us know we’re valued. That means a lot.”

Cole and Howard will both be honored at the&nbsp;National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development’s International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence May 29 – June 1 in Austin, Texas.

News ReleaseTwo Mid-Plains Community College instructors will be recognized at the national level for demonstrating excellence in teaching.Jimi Cole, business instructor in North Platte, and Cathy Howard, speech and English adjunct instructor in Imperial,&nbsp;were selected to receive NISOD’s Excellence in Teaching award based on their outstanding commitment and contributions to higher education.“Receiving the NISOD Excellence in Teaching Award is a very high honor for instructors at MPCC, and I am so pleased to be able to recognize both Jimi and Cathy for their hard work,” said Dr. Jody Tomanek, area vice president of academic affairs and NPCC. “They are two of our best instructors, who put in endless hours and are always willing to help out when we need them.”Cole<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608603622600.png" alt="Jimi Cole, Mid-Plains Community College business instructor, prepares notes for a class. Cole has been selected to receive NISOD’s Excellence in Teaching award." />
 <figcaption>Jimi Cole, Mid-Plains Community College business instructor, prepares notes for a class. Cole has been selected to receive NISOD’s Excellence in Teaching award.</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s a great honor,” Cole said. “I’m still kind of trying to believe that I was chosen. I never thought I would be in teaching, and I definitely never thought I would win an award for it.”Cole was headed down a completely different career path up until six years ago. Originally from Arnold, Cole did a variety of jobs within the medical industry including working as an office supervisor, coding, billing and medical transcription. She also substitute taught before hiring on with MPCC as a full-time instructor in 2015.“I felt like I could bring the industry into the classroom a bit,” Cole said. “Books can only teach so much – especially when it comes to coding and billing and dealing with patients at the front desk. I can give students real-life examples of things that can happen and explain how to handle them.”That personal experience not only makes her relatable, it also keeps her classes engaged.“I try to make learning as close to the real world as possible,” Cole said. “I give students case scenarios where they have to read actual physician notes, decipher codes and do the transcription and proofreading. The goal is to make them employable.”That “Aha!” moment when students understand a concept, coupled with their appreciation for learning are what continue to keep her in the field of higher education.“It’s the little things – like at the end of the semester when I get a heartfelt, ‘Thank you for pushing me and encouraging me to believe in myself,’ or ‘I couldn’t have done this without you,’ – those are the things that make me grateful to be where I am, doing what I do,” Cole said. “That’s what makes me proud to be a teacher.”Howard<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608603653953.png" alt="Cathy Howard, Mid-Plains Community College speech and English adjunct instructor, works with a group of high school students. Howard has been selected to receive NISOD’s Excellence in Teaching award." />
 <figcaption>Cathy Howard, Mid-Plains Community College speech and English adjunct instructor, works with a group of high school students. Howard has been selected to receive NISOD’s Excellence in Teaching award.</figcaption>
 </figure>Howard spent her entire career teaching. Her first job was as a teaching assistant in the English department at Colorado State University. Howard also taught in Watford City, N.D., Sundance, Wyo. and Bridgeport, Neb. before moving to Imperial.She began working at Chase County High School, in Imperial, in the fall of 1980, teaching speech and English classes and serving as the speech team coach and play director. In 2005, she also began teaching a summer speech class for MPCC.“It wasn’t much of a change from what I had been doing,” Howard said of the move to higher education. “I was a tough teacher at the high school and had been teaching at the college, or at least precollege, level all along. I wanted students to be prepared when they took that next step.”Howard retired from the high school in 2009 but has continued to teach for Mid-Plains ever since. Most of her students are dual credit, and she has noticed benefits to having the high school students mix with non-traditional students in a college setting.“They get to see others who really view education as a value not a burden,” Howard said. “That’s important.”No matter their age, Howard’s goal is always to shape her students into better communicators who look for the good in life. To encourage that, she has all of them draw the name of a classmate at the beginning of class. On the last day, they give a speech about the person whose name they drew – honoring that classmate for his or her accomplishments or for something else they think the awardee would like to be recognized for.“Regardless of the contact they have with a person, or how long they have that contact, every bit of it should be positive,” Howard said. “I would hope that my students pass that on.”Despite stressing recognition among her students, the NISOD recognition for her own achievements caught her off guard.“I was kind of surprised by it,” Howard said. “I’ve never gotten any kind of award before, but I appreciate that MPCC always makes an effort to include adjuncts in the sweep of things and lets us know we’re valued. That means a lot.”Cole and Howard will both be honored at the&nbsp;National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development’s International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence May 29 – June 1 in Austin, Texas.

MPCC instructors to be recognized for excellence in teaching

LINCOLN, Neb. – Anglers must be aware of fishing regulation changes that take effect Jan. 1, 2021, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Smallmouth Bass –&nbsp;Big Elk Lake (WP 7) and Portal Lake (WP 6), Sarpy County reservoirs under construction in 2020, each will have a smallmouth bass daily bag limit of two fish and 12-inch maximum length limit to protect larger smallmouths and allow harvest of smaller ones.

Yellow Perch –&nbsp;Big Elk Lake (WP 7) and Portal Lake (WP 6) each will have a yellow perch daily bag limit of five fish.

Muskellunge and Tiger Muskellunge –&nbsp;Pelican Lake on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge will have a muskie and tiger muskie daily bag limit of three, including not more than one fish 34 inches or greater in length. A possession limit of three also is established for those species at Pelican Lake.

Northern Pike –&nbsp;Hershey I-80 Lake Wildlife Management Area no longer will have a 34-inch minimum length limit in place on northern pike. Statewide regulations will apply (daily bag limit of three, including not more than one fish 34 inches or greater in length).

No live baitfish –&nbsp;The following areas are added to the list of waters where no live baitfish may be used or possessed: Rock Creek Lake State Recreation Area, Dundy County; Avocet Wildlife Management Area, Grant County; Wilbur Reservoir, Saline County; Big Elk Lake (WP 7), Sarpy County; and Portal Lake (WP 6), Sarpy County.

Crane Lake –&nbsp;Fishing will be permitted at Crane Lake on Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge during daylight hours from Nov. 1 through Feb. 15.

Anglers can read the 2021 Fishing Guide when it is available in January at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMjEuMzIzNTczMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.KVtLc6vQSh9c7VCsQr1a53OINgc3uHWRBzU7SLAesN4/s/1372948182/br/92221677466-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608595436320.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Anglers must be aware of fishing regulation changes that take effect Jan. 1, 2021, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.The changes are:Smallmouth Bass –&nbsp;Big Elk Lake (WP 7) and Portal Lake (WP 6), Sarpy County reservoirs under construction in 2020, each will have a smallmouth bass daily bag limit of two fish and 12-inch maximum length limit to protect larger smallmouths and allow harvest of smaller ones.Yellow Perch –&nbsp;Big Elk Lake (WP 7) and Portal Lake (WP 6) each will have a yellow perch daily bag limit of five fish.Muskellunge and Tiger Muskellunge –&nbsp;Pelican Lake on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge will have a muskie and tiger muskie daily bag limit of three, including not more than one fish 34 inches or greater in length. A possession limit of three also is established for those species at Pelican Lake.Northern Pike –&nbsp;Hershey I-80 Lake Wildlife Management Area no longer will have a 34-inch minimum length limit in place on northern pike. Statewide regulations will apply (daily bag limit of three, including not more than one fish 34 inches or greater in length).No live baitfish –&nbsp;The following areas are added to the list of waters where no live baitfish may be used or possessed: Rock Creek Lake State Recreation Area, Dundy County; Avocet Wildlife Management Area, Grant County; Wilbur Reservoir, Saline County; Big Elk Lake (WP 7), Sarpy County; and Portal Lake (WP 6), Sarpy County.Crane Lake –&nbsp;Fishing will be permitted at Crane Lake on Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge during daylight hours from Nov. 1 through Feb. 15.Anglers can read the 2021 Fishing Guide when it is available in January at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMjEuMzIzNTczMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.KVtLc6vQSh9c7VCsQr1a53OINgc3uHWRBzU7SLAesN4/s/1372948182/br/92221677466-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Game and Parks: Anglers must be aware of fishing regulation changes for 2021

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's corrections department will propose to lawmakers a new, $230 million prison to reduce chronic overcrowding that's likely to get worse, the agency's director said Monday.

Corrections Director Scott Frakes will present the plan in the upcoming legislative session with backing from his boss, Gov. Pete Ricketts.

State officials have tried for years to ease crowding in Nebraska's prisons by expanding parole, changing some sentencing laws and creating new diversion programs.

But the population has continued to grow, and the department has struggled to fill prison jobs - especially at the prison in Tecumseh, a small town more than 50 miles away from both Omaha and Lincoln.

"Here's the reality: We need a new correctional facility," Frakes said in a briefing with reporters.

Frakes said a new prison is "truly the best construction value for our state" compared to other options that state officials explored, such as expanding current facilities.

Frakes said the new prison would have a modern design with improved safety features and lower utility costs. He said the estimated $230 million construction costs would be spread over roughly 4 1/2 years, and the facility would cost about $34 million a year to operate. The operational cost could be reduced, though, by converting the maximum-security Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln to a minimum security facility and making a similar conversion at the state's Work Ethic Camp in western Nebraska.

If lawmakers approve the plan in the 2021 session, the new prison likely wouldn't open until 2025 at the earliest. The plan could face resistance from some lawmakers, who have pushed for more changes to sentencing laws and more rehabilitative programming as the best way to reduce crowding.

The new prison would add 1,512 new prison beds to Nebraska's prison system, for a total of 6,562 in all facilities. Nebraska currently has 5,540 adult inmates in facilities that are collectively designed for about 4,050. The inmate population is expected to increase to 6,438 by the end of 2025, according to the JFA Institute, a prison research group.

Frakes said he doesn't yet know where the prison would be located, but the need for staffing and outside rehabilitation services would likely rule out small towns. He said the constant struggle to find workers who will commute to Tecumseh has "haunted" the department ever since that facility opened in 2001.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's corrections department will propose to lawmakers a new, $230 million prison to reduce chronic overcrowding that's likely to get worse, the agency's director said Monday.Corrections Director Scott Frakes will present the plan in the upcoming legislative session with backing from his boss, Gov. Pete Ricketts.State officials have tried for years to ease crowding in Nebraska's prisons by expanding parole, changing some sentencing laws and creating new diversion programs.But the population has continued to grow, and the department has struggled to fill prison jobs - especially at the prison in Tecumseh, a small town more than 50 miles away from both Omaha and Lincoln."Here's the reality: We need a new correctional facility," Frakes said in a briefing with reporters.Frakes said a new prison is "truly the best construction value for our state" compared to other options that state officials explored, such as expanding current facilities.Frakes said the new prison would have a modern design with improved safety features and lower utility costs. He said the estimated $230 million construction costs would be spread over roughly 4 1/2 years, and the facility would cost about $34 million a year to operate. The operational cost could be reduced, though, by converting the maximum-security Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln to a minimum security facility and making a similar conversion at the state's Work Ethic Camp in western Nebraska.If lawmakers approve the plan in the 2021 session, the new prison likely wouldn't open until 2025 at the earliest. The plan could face resistance from some lawmakers, who have pushed for more changes to sentencing laws and more rehabilitative programming as the best way to reduce crowding.The new prison would add 1,512 new prison beds to Nebraska's prison system, for a total of 6,562 in all facilities. Nebraska currently has 5,540 adult inmates in facilities that are collectively designed for about 4,050. The inmate population is expected to increase to 6,438 by the end of 2025, according to the JFA Institute, a prison research group.Frakes said he doesn't yet know where the prison would be located, but the need for staffing and outside rehabilitation services would likely rule out small towns. He said the constant struggle to find workers who will commute to Tecumseh has "haunted" the department ever since that facility opened in 2001.

Nebraska proposes $230 million new prison to fight crowding

Dec. 21 has been declared "Helen Iossi Day" in the City of Alliance.&nbsp;

On Monday morning, Dec. 21 Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney declared today "Helen Iossi Day". 

Dafney called into the popular Open Mic Program on AM 1400/92.5FM KCOW and read the City Proclamation. You can read it below.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostDec. 21 has been declared "Helen Iossi Day" in the City of Alliance.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608580348151.jpeg" alt="Iossi smiles at the Eagle Radio Home Show in 2018. Photo by Kalin Krohe.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Iossi smiles at the Eagle Radio Home Show in 2018. Photo by Kalin Krohe.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday morning, Dec. 21 Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney declared today "Helen Iossi Day". Dafney called into the popular Open Mic Program on AM 1400/92.5FM KCOW and read the City Proclamation. You can read it below.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608580186640.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Mayor Dafney declares Dec. 21 'Helen Iossi Day' in Alliance

That’s how Jody Hill feels about North Platte Community College. She’s somewhat of an expert. Three generations of her family have gotten their start at NPCC.

“My mother received a degree in the [Medical Laboratory Technician] program, three out of four of my siblings and I received associate degrees and three of my four sons received associate degrees through NPCC,” Hill said. “The college is important to my family.”

The tradition began with her mother, Diane Olson. Although originally from North Platte, Diane went to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, back then it was called the Nebraska State Teachers College at Kearney, right out of high school.

“Got three semesters in, married my husband Francis, finished the semester then moved back to North Platte because my husband got a job at the railroad,” Diane said. “After five children, I decided I wanted to continue on. I had always wanted to do lab work.”

Diane was taking guitar lessons at NPCC at the time. Classes were in the old post office building downtown, currently the site of the Prairie Arts Center.

It was during one of those sessions that she ran into a former classmate from Kearney. He was teaching NPCC’s med lab tech program. That connection was all Diane needed to convince her to enroll.

“It was so nice to have the college in town,” Diane said. “Instead of driving back and forth to Kearney, I could continue to live in North Platte, raise my family, have a job and still go to classes.”

Diane graduated from NPCC in 1979 with both an Associate of Applied Science degree and a Medical Laboratory Technician degree. She then went to work for Dr. Leland Lamberty doing lab work, x-rays and cardiograms among other responsibilities.

“Then in the ’90s, it was decided that a license was needed to conduct x-rays,” Diane said. “NPCC offered a nine-week limited X-ray technology program. So, I took it Friday evenings and Saturdays and got my license in that, too.”

Francis eventually ended up at NPCC as well. He was employed in the signal department at Union Pacific Railroad and took three electronics classes to increase his skills. He later took German and Swedish language classes at the college with Diane and their daughter Carol Olson.

Carol was part of the second generation to attend NPCC alongside Hill and siblings Jeff, Chris, and Melissa Olson.&nbsp;

Carol earned an Associate of Arts degree from NPCC then transferred to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln where she obtained a degree in physical therapy.

Jeff went through NPCC’s Automotive Technology program and graduated in 1981. He qualified for the national Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, now known as SkillsUSA, competition both years that he was at NPCC. After college, Jeff worked for UPRR’s car department in North Platte before relocating to Omaha about 15 years ago. He currently manages coal trains.

Chris earned credits for electronics by taking night classes at NPCC during his junior and senior years of high school. He then transferred those credits to UNL.

Similarly, Melissa took classes at NPCC for two years then transferred to Concordia University in Seward. She now works in registration in the emergency room at a hospital in Bella Vista, Ark.

NPCC was Hill’s first choice when she graduated from St. Pat’s High School in 1982. She had earned a scholarship that paid for 12 credit hours per semester for two years, which made the decision easy.

“NPCC was definitely the most affordable option, and at the time, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to go into,” Hill said. “I figured NPCC was a good place to start. I could get some of my generals out of the way while living at home and working my part-time job.”

She appreciated NPCC’s one-on-one instruction, especially with tougher classes such as chemistry, and the college’s friendly, home-like atmosphere.

“I met people during my time at NPCC that I’m still friends with to this day,” Hill said. “It was a good way to ease into college. As an introvert, I didn’t want to go directly to a big school.”

NPCC also helped her develop a vision for the future. She had a clear plan in place by the time she graduated with an Associate of Science degree in 1984.

“I liked the sciences and was familiar with the type of work my mom had done, so I decided to go down that path as well,” Hill said. “I transferred to UNL for a year then went on to the University of Nebraska Medical Center where I got a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology.”

Hill hired on with Great Plains Health in January of 1987 as a medical technologist and has been there ever since. The past seven years she has served as the hospital’s point of care coordinator.

Her career has taken her full circle as she often finds herself training students from the med lab tech program at NPCC. Some of them attended the college at the same time as her sons.

“We didn’t really save up for our kids to go to college,” Hill said. “With four children in three and a half years, saving was hard to do. NPCC was once again the logical choice because of affordability.”

Her oldest son, Andrew Hill, earned an Associate of Arts degree from NPCC and is currently studying web design at Santa Monica College, in Santa Monica, Calif.

The next in line, Kory Hill, received both Associate of Art and Associate of Science degrees from NPCC before moving on to DeVry University in Denver to pursue a degree in electronic technology. He is a test technician for Varian Medical Systems in Palo Alto, Calif.

Jody’s youngest sons, Bryan and Ben Hill, are twins. Bryan took anatomy and physiology dual credit classes through NPCC while still in high school. He transferred those credits to the University of Nebraska at Kearney where he ran track and cross country and studied Spanish education. Bryan is now a Spanish teacher.

Ben also took dual credit courses in high school before enrolling at NPCC where he spent the first year concentrating on general studies.

“By the second year, I was taking voice lessons and acting classes and becoming more involved with the music and theater programs,” Ben said. “NPCC was right for me because that’s where I found what I really wanted to get into. It was good preparation for that next step of my educational journey.”

Ben obtained an Associate of Arts degree from NPCC before following his brother to UNK and earning a bachelor’s degree in music and theater. Ben has been in numerous musicals and other theatrical productions ever since.

“I just can’t say enough good things about NPCC,” Diane said as she reflected on all of her family members who have passed through the college’s doors. “It’s such an asset to have a college in this area that allows people to stay here, work here and further their education at the same time. For our family, it’s been everything we could have ever wanted.”

By Heather Johnson-MPCCIt’s a great place to start.That’s how Jody Hill feels about North Platte Community College. She’s somewhat of an expert. Three generations of her family have gotten their start at NPCC.“My mother received a degree in the [Medical Laboratory Technician] program, three out of four of my siblings and I received associate degrees and three of my four sons received associate degrees through NPCC,” Hill said. “The college is important to my family.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608572647756.png" alt="Diane Olson" />
 <figcaption>Diane Olson</figcaption>
 </figure>The tradition began with her mother, Diane Olson. Although originally from North Platte, Diane went to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, back then it was called the Nebraska State Teachers College at Kearney, right out of high school.“Got three semesters in, married my husband Francis, finished the semester then moved back to North Platte because my husband got a job at the railroad,” Diane said. “After five children, I decided I wanted to continue on. I had always wanted to do lab work.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608572724785.png" alt="Jody Hill" />
 <figcaption>Jody Hill</figcaption>
 </figure>Diane was taking guitar lessons at NPCC at the time. Classes were in the old post office building downtown, currently the site of the Prairie Arts Center.It was during one of those sessions that she ran into a former classmate from Kearney. He was teaching NPCC’s med lab tech program. That connection was all Diane needed to convince her to enroll.“It was so nice to have the college in town,” Diane said. “Instead of driving back and forth to Kearney, I could continue to live in North Platte, raise my family, have a job and still go to classes.”Diane graduated from NPCC in 1979 with both an Associate of Applied Science degree and a Medical Laboratory Technician degree. She then went to work for Dr. Leland Lamberty doing lab work, x-rays and cardiograms among other responsibilities.“Then in the ’90s, it was decided that a license was needed to conduct x-rays,” Diane said. “NPCC offered a nine-week limited X-ray technology program. So, I took it Friday evenings and Saturdays and got my license in that, too.”Francis eventually ended up at NPCC as well. He was employed in the signal department at Union Pacific Railroad and took three electronics classes to increase his skills. He later took German and Swedish language classes at the college with Diane and their daughter Carol Olson.Carol was part of the second generation to attend NPCC alongside Hill and siblings Jeff, Chris, and Melissa Olson.&nbsp;Carol earned an Associate of Arts degree from NPCC then transferred to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln where she obtained a degree in physical therapy.Jeff went through NPCC’s Automotive Technology program and graduated in 1981. He qualified for the national Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, now known as SkillsUSA, competition both years that he was at NPCC. After college, Jeff worked for UPRR’s car department in North Platte before relocating to Omaha about 15 years ago. He currently manages coal trains.Chris earned credits for electronics by taking night classes at NPCC during his junior and senior years of high school. He then transferred those credits to UNL.Similarly, Melissa took classes at NPCC for two years then transferred to Concordia University in Seward. She now works in registration in the emergency room at a hospital in Bella Vista, Ark.NPCC was Hill’s first choice when she graduated from St. Pat’s High School in 1982. She had earned a scholarship that paid for 12 credit hours per semester for two years, which made the decision easy.“NPCC was definitely the most affordable option, and at the time, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to go into,” Hill said. “I figured NPCC was a good place to start. I could get some of my generals out of the way while living at home and working my part-time job.”She appreciated NPCC’s one-on-one instruction, especially with tougher classes such as chemistry, and the college’s friendly, home-like atmosphere.“I met people during my time at NPCC that I’m still friends with to this day,” Hill said. “It was a good way to ease into college. As an introvert, I didn’t want to go directly to a big school.”NPCC also helped her develop a vision for the future. She had a clear plan in place by the time she graduated with an Associate of Science degree in 1984.“I liked the sciences and was familiar with the type of work my mom had done, so I decided to go down that path as well,” Hill said. “I transferred to UNL for a year then went on to the University of Nebraska Medical Center where I got a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology.”Hill hired on with Great Plains Health in January of 1987 as a medical technologist and has been there ever since. The past seven years she has served as the hospital’s point of care coordinator.Her career has taken her full circle as she often finds herself training students from the med lab tech program at NPCC. Some of them attended the college at the same time as her sons.“We didn’t really save up for our kids to go to college,” Hill said. “With four children in three and a half years, saving was hard to do. NPCC was once again the logical choice because of affordability.”Her oldest son, Andrew Hill, earned an Associate of Arts degree from NPCC and is currently studying web design at Santa Monica College, in Santa Monica, Calif.The next in line, Kory Hill, received both Associate of Art and Associate of Science degrees from NPCC before moving on to DeVry University in Denver to pursue a degree in electronic technology. He is a test technician for Varian Medical Systems in Palo Alto, Calif.Jody’s youngest sons, Bryan and Ben Hill, are twins. Bryan took anatomy and physiology dual credit classes through NPCC while still in high school. He transferred those credits to the University of Nebraska at Kearney where he ran track and cross country and studied Spanish education. Bryan is now a Spanish teacher.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608572796422.png" alt="Ben Hill" />
 <figcaption>Ben Hill</figcaption>
 </figure>Ben also took dual credit courses in high school before enrolling at NPCC where he spent the first year concentrating on general studies.“By the second year, I was taking voice lessons and acting classes and becoming more involved with the music and theater programs,” Ben said. “NPCC was right for me because that’s where I found what I really wanted to get into. It was good preparation for that next step of my educational journey.”Ben obtained an Associate of Arts degree from NPCC before following his brother to UNK and earning a bachelor’s degree in music and theater. Ben has been in numerous musicals and other theatrical productions ever since.“I just can’t say enough good things about NPCC,” Diane said as she reflected on all of her family members who have passed through the college’s doors. “It’s such an asset to have a college in this area that allows people to stay here, work here and further their education at the same time. For our family, it’s been everything we could have ever wanted.”

NPCC provides a start for three generations

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NSP)-The Nebraska State Patrol Investigative Services Division is investigating a shooting that occurred in Palisade, in Hayes County, on Friday, December 18.

NSP Investigators were called in Friday after the Hayes County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene at 308 North Osborn in Palisade. A victim was located with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte and is expected to survive.

The Hayes County Sheriff’s Office has requested that the Nebraska State Patrol be the lead agency in the investigation. A preliminary investigation was completed at the scene Friday. The Hayes County Sheriff’s Office, Hitchcock County Sheriff’s Office, Palisade Fire and Rescue assisted on the scene. 

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NSP)-The Nebraska State Patrol Investigative Services Division is investigating a shooting that occurred in Palisade, in Hayes County, on Friday, December 18.NSP Investigators were called in Friday after the Hayes County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene at 308 North Osborn in Palisade. A victim was located with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte and is expected to survive.The Hayes County Sheriff’s Office has requested that the Nebraska State Patrol be the lead agency in the investigation. A preliminary investigation was completed at the scene Friday. The Hayes County Sheriff’s Office, Hitchcock County Sheriff’s Office, Palisade Fire and Rescue assisted on the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.

NSP investigating shooting in Palisade

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The latest virus numbers continued to improve in Nebraska on Sunday with the number of virus hospitalizations remaining below 600.

The state said 582 people were being treated in hospitals for COVID-19 on Sunday, which was down from 598 the day before. That number has been steadily declining since setting a record of 987 on Nov. 20, but it remains more than 2.5 times higher than what it was on Oct. 1.

Currently, 14% of the state's hospital beds are occupied by coronavirus patients. If the seven-day rolling average of that figure remains below 15%, the state may further relax its social distancing restrictions.

Nebraska reported 967 new virus cases and 11 new deaths Sunday to give the state a total of 156,382 cases and 1,486 deaths since the pandemic began.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The latest virus numbers continued to improve in Nebraska on Sunday with the number of virus hospitalizations remaining below 600.The state said 582 people were being treated in hospitals for COVID-19 on Sunday, which was down from 598 the day before. That number has been steadily declining since setting a record of 987 on Nov. 20, but it remains more than 2.5 times higher than what it was on Oct. 1.Currently, 14% of the state's hospital beds are occupied by coronavirus patients. If the seven-day rolling average of that figure remains below 15%, the state may further relax its social distancing restrictions.Nebraska reported 967 new virus cases and 11 new deaths Sunday to give the state a total of 156,382 cases and 1,486 deaths since the pandemic began.

Number of virus hospitalizations in Nebraska declines again

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska has dropped below 600 for the first time since late October.

Nebraska said 598 people across the state were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Saturday. The last time that figure was below 600 was on October 30, and that total remains well below the peak of 987 reached on Nov. 20.

The state reported 670 new cases of the virus Saturday to raise the total to 155,415 since the pandemic began. There have also been 1,475 deaths linked to the virus.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 1,751.29 new cases per day on Dec. 5 to 1,124 new cases per day on Saturday.

Also Saturday, the state Department of Correctional Services said nine more prison staff members had tested positive for the virus. Six of those work at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, two work at the Omaha Community Corrections Center and one works at the Lincoln Correctional Center.

The state said a total of 439 corrections employees have contracted the virus. Of those, 338 have recovered.

As of Friday, 855 inmates had tested positive for the virus and 6 had died. The state said most of those inmates, 720 of them, have recovered from their illnesses.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska has dropped below 600 for the first time since late October.Nebraska said 598 people across the state were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Saturday. The last time that figure was below 600 was on October 30, and that total remains well below the peak of 987 reached on Nov. 20.The state reported 670 new cases of the virus Saturday to raise the total to 155,415 since the pandemic began. There have also been 1,475 deaths linked to the virus.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 1,751.29 new cases per day on Dec. 5 to 1,124 new cases per day on Saturday.Also Saturday, the state Department of Correctional Services said nine more prison staff members had tested positive for the virus. Six of those work at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, two work at the Omaha Community Corrections Center and one works at the Lincoln Correctional Center.The state said a total of 439 corrections employees have contracted the virus. Of those, 338 have recovered.As of Friday, 855 inmates had tested positive for the virus and 6 had died. The state said most of those inmates, 720 of them, have recovered from their illnesses.

Nebraska virus hospitalizations dip below 600 over weekend


The lone occupant and driver of the fatal
crash has been identified as Valerie L. Hendricksen, age 57, of
Holdrege, NE.  The vehicle she was driving was a 2007 Chevrolet
Impala. 



The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office
is investigating a one-vehicle fatal traffic crash that occurred
sometime during the late afternoon or early evening hours of Friday,
December 18, 2020, approximately 6 miles north of Elm Creek, NE on
Highway 183.   


    
According to the preliminary
investigation, an older model Chevrolet sedan was traveling
northbound on Highway 183 when it traveled onto the shoulder of the roadway.  The vehicle rolled and the driver (lone occupant) was
ejected from the vehicle.

 The time of the crash and identity of the older female
driver has not been confirmed. Officials say the Sheriff’s Office was contacted
in regard to this vehicle being located in the ditch at approximately
8:20 PM on Friday evening.  Prior to the vehicle being located,
acquaintances had inquired about any accidents in the area.  Foul play is not suspected.     


    
Assisting deputies were members of the
Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation Team,
Kearney Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Elm Creek Volunteer
Fire and Rescue, Nebraska Department of Transportation, and the
Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.       


    
Authorities are making attempts to officially
contact and confirm next of kin at this time. 

 The Buffalo County
Attorney’s Office has ordered an autopsy.  The investigation is
continuing.     


Update
The lone occupant and driver of the fatal
crash has been identified as Valerie L. Hendricksen, age 57, of
Holdrege, NE. The vehicle she was driving was a 2007 Chevrolet
Impala. 
Next
of Kin have been notified. 

The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office
is investigating a one-vehicle fatal traffic crash that occurred
sometime during the late afternoon or early evening hours of Friday,
December 18, 2020, approximately 6 miles north of Elm Creek, NE on
Highway 183. 
 
According to the preliminary
investigation, an older model Chevrolet sedan was traveling
northbound on Highway 183 when it traveled onto the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle rolled and the driver (lone occupant) was
ejected from the vehicle. The time of the crash and identity of the older female
driver has not been confirmed. Officials say the Sheriff’s Office was contacted
in regard to this vehicle being located in the ditch at approximately
8:20 PM on Friday evening. Prior to the vehicle being located,
acquaintances had inquired about any accidents in the area. Foul play is not suspected. 
 
Assisting deputies were members of the
Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation Team,
Kearney Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Elm Creek Volunteer
Fire and Rescue, Nebraska Department of Transportation, and the
Buffalo County Attorney’s Office. 
 
Authorities are making attempts to officially
contact and confirm next of kin at this time. The Buffalo County
Attorney’s Office has ordered an autopsy. The investigation is
continuing.

Holdrege woman identified as victim of fatal crash

A familiar face will be absent from the Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors beginning in January.

Louis “Louie” Stithem, who represented District Three, officially retired from the board Wednesday, bidding farewell to an organization he was part of for more than a third of his life.

“I’m 82 and have been on the board for 32 years,” Stithem said. “That’s enough. It’s time to get some new blood in there.”

Stithem was no stranger to education when he joined the Board of Governors in 1984. He had worked in the Broken Bow Public Schools since 1961 – first as a math teacher and coach and then as a middle school principal.

Stithem was encouraged to run for the Board of Governors by Keith Wade, who had sat on the board previously. When election time rolled around, the existing District Three representative, Jeff Evans, decided he wasn’t going to refile, and Wade convinced Stithem to try for the spot.

“Broken Bow had always had one of the two seats representing District Three, and I didn’t want to see that end,” Stithem said. “Also, at that time, I was in charge of community education at the high school. I thought that by being on the board and part of Mid-Plains, I might be able to encourage some new offerings that would benefit our Broken Bow students.”

Filing, however, wasn’t as easy as it should have been.

“When I filed, we had a brand-new county clerk,” Stithem said. “She held on to those filings until the day they were due in Lincoln. So, I had to get my name on the ballot by petition. I called up and down Highway 2 to other principals and people I knew, and they circulated petitions for me. In two days, they had enough signatures.”

He was elected and reelected to the board many times over the next 30-plus years. The only time he was absent from the board was when he decided to vie for a position as Nebraska senator representing the 43rd district in 2004.

“I did that because there were a couple others running that felt community colleges should not have taxing authority,” said Stithem. “That was also the year for me to file for reelection for Mid-Plains, and you cannot not hold two elected positions at the same time.”

Stithem gave up his place on the MPCC Board of Governors but lost the legislative race to Deb Fischer. He had to wait four more years to win back his spot on the board.&nbsp;

Serving on the board allowed Stithem to stay involved with education despite his retirement from the public schools in 1997.

He held every position possible over the years - except for treasurer. That included serving as chairman and vice chairman multiple times and representing MPCC on the Nebraska Community College Association Board.

“The thing that has intrigued me most has been selling an idea to the general public,” Stithem said. “There are still a lot of misconceptions about community colleges. People think of them strictly as places for the trades, and students come out of the high schools thinking they have to go to a four-year college or university to be successful, and that’s a bunch of baloney.”

He’s been stressing the one-on-one instruction and cost-savings of community colleges for years.

“That’s been my big push,” Stithem said. “No matter what students choose to go into, they can get their first two years at a much more affordable rate by attending a community college.”

Of all the advancements he’s witnessed at MPCC over the past three decades, he lists the growth of online classes and expansion of the four campuses in Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine as the college’s greatest accomplishments.

“MPCC is a tremendous value for our service area, and much of that is because of those four campuses,” Stithem said. “They tailor their programs and training specifically to the communities they serve.”

While Stithem is stepping down from the board, he won’t be absent from Mid-Plains entirely. He still has plans to drop in on the occasional meeting – especially those in Broken Bow.

“I will definitely miss the camaraderie of the other board members,” Stithem said. “They’re all there for the same purpose, and I’ve loved listening to the different views and working with them to provide a quality education for MPCC students. It’s been a great time.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608475059119.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCA familiar face will be absent from the Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors beginning in January.Louis “Louie” Stithem, who represented District Three, officially retired from the board Wednesday, bidding farewell to an organization he was part of for more than a third of his life.“I’m 82 and have been on the board for 32 years,” Stithem said. “That’s enough. It’s time to get some new blood in there.”Stithem was no stranger to education when he joined the Board of Governors in 1984. He had worked in the Broken Bow Public Schools since 1961 – first as a math teacher and coach and then as a middle school principal.Stithem was encouraged to run for the Board of Governors by Keith Wade, who had sat on the board previously. When election time rolled around, the existing District Three representative, Jeff Evans, decided he wasn’t going to refile, and Wade convinced Stithem to try for the spot.“Broken Bow had always had one of the two seats representing District Three, and I didn’t want to see that end,” Stithem said. “Also, at that time, I was in charge of community education at the high school. I thought that by being on the board and part of Mid-Plains, I might be able to encourage some new offerings that would benefit our Broken Bow students.”Filing, however, wasn’t as easy as it should have been.“When I filed, we had a brand-new county clerk,” Stithem said. “She held on to those filings until the day they were due in Lincoln. So, I had to get my name on the ballot by petition. I called up and down Highway 2 to other principals and people I knew, and they circulated petitions for me. In two days, they had enough signatures.”He was elected and reelected to the board many times over the next 30-plus years. The only time he was absent from the board was when he decided to vie for a position as Nebraska senator representing the 43rd district in 2004.“I did that because there were a couple others running that felt community colleges should not have taxing authority,” said Stithem. “That was also the year for me to file for reelection for Mid-Plains, and you cannot not hold two elected positions at the same time.”Stithem gave up his place on the MPCC Board of Governors but lost the legislative race to Deb Fischer. He had to wait four more years to win back his spot on the board.&nbsp;Serving on the board allowed Stithem to stay involved with education despite his retirement from the public schools in 1997.He held every position possible over the years - except for treasurer. That included serving as chairman and vice chairman multiple times and representing MPCC on the Nebraska Community College Association Board.“The thing that has intrigued me most has been selling an idea to the general public,” Stithem said. “There are still a lot of misconceptions about community colleges. People think of them strictly as places for the trades, and students come out of the high schools thinking they have to go to a four-year college or university to be successful, and that’s a bunch of baloney.”He’s been stressing the one-on-one instruction and cost-savings of community colleges for years.“That’s been my big push,” Stithem said. “No matter what students choose to go into, they can get their first two years at a much more affordable rate by attending a community college.”Of all the advancements he’s witnessed at MPCC over the past three decades, he lists the growth of online classes and expansion of the four campuses in Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine as the college’s greatest accomplishments.“MPCC is a tremendous value for our service area, and much of that is because of those four campuses,” Stithem said. “They tailor their programs and training specifically to the communities they serve.”While Stithem is stepping down from the board, he won’t be absent from Mid-Plains entirely. He still has plans to drop in on the occasional meeting – especially those in Broken Bow.“I will definitely miss the camaraderie of the other board members,” Stithem said. “They’re all there for the same purpose, and I’ve loved listening to the different views and working with them to provide a quality education for MPCC students. It’s been a great time.”

Stithem retires from MPCC Board of Governors

United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that on December 18, 2020, Marcus Navejar, age 39 of Kearney Nebraska, was sentenced in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, after having pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Connection with a Drug Trafficking Crime. Senior United States District Court Judge Richard G. Kopf sentenced Marcus Navejar to 35 years imprisonment. Navejar’s sentence included a consecutive 25 year term of imprisonment as the firearm conviction was his second for possession a firearm while distributing drugs. After completing his term of imprisonment, Navejar will be required to serve a 5 year term of supervised release as there is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

On June 5, 2019, the Omaha Police Department was conducting an investigation where a cooperating witness was collecting money owed from drug debts at an Omaha hotel. Navejar delivered $8,280 he owed for a drug debt to the cooperator on that date.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

On June 7, 2019, the cooperating witness informed police that Navejar was staying at an Omaha hotel and in possession of methamphetamine and a gun. While police were obtaining a search warrant for his room, surveillance officers encountered Navejar outside and took him into custody. A search of his person revealed approximately 16 grams of methamphetamine and a handgun. During a post-arrest interview, Navejar admitted to dealing five pounds of methamphetamine with others during the previous few weeks.

This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.&nbsp;

United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that on December 18, 2020, Marcus Navejar, age 39 of Kearney Nebraska, was sentenced in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, after having pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Connection with a Drug Trafficking Crime. Senior United States District Court Judge Richard G. Kopf sentenced Marcus Navejar to 35 years imprisonment. Navejar’s sentence included a consecutive 25 year term of imprisonment as the firearm conviction was his second for possession a firearm while distributing drugs. After completing his term of imprisonment, Navejar will be required to serve a 5 year term of supervised release as there is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On June 5, 2019, the Omaha Police Department was conducting an investigation where a cooperating witness was collecting money owed from drug debts at an Omaha hotel. Navejar delivered $8,280 he owed for a drug debt to the cooperator on that date.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On June 7, 2019, the cooperating witness informed police that Navejar was staying at an Omaha hotel and in possession of methamphetamine and a gun. While police were obtaining a search warrant for his room, surveillance officers encountered Navejar outside and took him into custody. A search of his person revealed approximately 16 grams of methamphetamine and a handgun. During a post-arrest interview, Navejar admitted to dealing five pounds of methamphetamine with others during the previous few weeks.This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.&nbsp;

Kearney man gets 35 years for dealing meth

Eighteen new troopers have joined the ranks of the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP). The members of the 63rd&nbsp;Basic Recruit Class in NSP history received their badges and took the oath of office today during a ceremony at the State Capitol.

“Today is a great day for the Nebraska State Patrol,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “These 18 troopers have faced challenges and grew together as a team. The skills they’ve learned during the last six months of training will now be put to use in service to the citizens of Nebraska.”

The members of Camp 63 hail from three states and 13 different communities across Nebraska. The class completed 22 weeks of intense training at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island. The training included extensive live-action, hands-on scenarios, as well as more than 1,000 hours of academic instruction. The new troopers will now continue their training in the field, pairing with a veteran trooper for the field training process.

Recruit Jenna Riddle, of Lincoln, received the Captain Mark Williams Core Values Award, as well as the R. J. Buchholz Physical Fitness Award. Recruit Nicholas Buck, of Rochester, Minnesota, was honored with the D. R. Shearer Marksmanship Award. Recruit Matthew Brown, of Bayard, received the O. H. Witt Academic Achievement Award. Recruit Joshua Ko, of Pearl City, Hawaii, was presented the Superintendent’s Leadership Award.

Governor Pete Ricketts, Attorney General Doug Peterson, and Colonel Bolduc provided remarks during today’s graduation ceremony, held in the rotunda of the Nebraska State Capitol. Secretary of State Bob Evnen administered the oath of office. Attendance at the ceremony was limited to comply with social distancing guidelines.

“You have just completed one of the toughest law enforcement training camps in the nation,” said Governor Pete Ricketts, in his address to the class. “On behalf of all Nebraskans, I want to tell you how proud we are of the Nebraska State Patrol and how proud we are of you for making this decision to join the patrol.”&nbsp;

Camp 63 completes the best recruiting year for NSP since 2015, with 33 new troopers taking the oath of office this year. 2020 marks only the second time since 2002 that NSP has added more than 30 troopers in one calendar year. Fifteen new troopers were sworn-in last June.

The next Nebraska State Patrol Basic Recruit Class, Camp 64, will begin on January 4, 2021. NSP is currently accepting applications for Camp 65, scheduled to begin in July 2021, at&nbsp;<a>nsp.ne.gov/apply</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608388272105.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eighteen new troopers have joined the ranks of the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP). The members of the 63rd&nbsp;Basic Recruit Class in NSP history received their badges and took the oath of office today during a ceremony at the State Capitol.“Today is a great day for the Nebraska State Patrol,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “These 18 troopers have faced challenges and grew together as a team. The skills they’ve learned during the last six months of training will now be put to use in service to the citizens of Nebraska.”The members of Camp 63 hail from three states and 13 different communities across Nebraska. The class completed 22 weeks of intense training at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island. The training included extensive live-action, hands-on scenarios, as well as more than 1,000 hours of academic instruction. The new troopers will now continue their training in the field, pairing with a veteran trooper for the field training process.Recruit Jenna Riddle, of Lincoln, received the Captain Mark Williams Core Values Award, as well as the R. J. Buchholz Physical Fitness Award. Recruit Nicholas Buck, of Rochester, Minnesota, was honored with the D. R. Shearer Marksmanship Award. Recruit Matthew Brown, of Bayard, received the O. H. Witt Academic Achievement Award. Recruit Joshua Ko, of Pearl City, Hawaii, was presented the Superintendent’s Leadership Award.Governor Pete Ricketts, Attorney General Doug Peterson, and Colonel Bolduc provided remarks during today’s graduation ceremony, held in the rotunda of the Nebraska State Capitol. Secretary of State Bob Evnen administered the oath of office. Attendance at the ceremony was limited to comply with social distancing guidelines.“You have just completed one of the toughest law enforcement training camps in the nation,” said Governor Pete Ricketts, in his address to the class. “On behalf of all Nebraskans, I want to tell you how proud we are of the Nebraska State Patrol and how proud we are of you for making this decision to join the patrol.”&nbsp;The graduates of Camp 63 are:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608388155701.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Camp 63 completes the best recruiting year for NSP since 2015, with 33 new troopers taking the oath of office this year. 2020 marks only the second time since 2002 that NSP has added more than 30 troopers in one calendar year. Fifteen new troopers were sworn-in last June.The next Nebraska State Patrol Basic Recruit Class, Camp 64, will begin on January 4, 2021. NSP is currently accepting applications for Camp 65, scheduled to begin in July 2021, at&nbsp;<a>nsp.ne.gov/apply</a>.

Nebraska State Patrol graduates 63rd recruit class

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's Capitol will close on Dec. 24 now that President Donald Trump has declared Christmas Eve a federal holiday.

The Office of the Nebraska Capitol Commission said it won't be offering tours that day or Christmas Day on Dec. 25. The Capitol will reopen for tours on Dec. 26.

It will close again on Jan. 1 for New Year's Day.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's Capitol will close on Dec. 24 now that President Donald Trump has declared Christmas Eve a federal holiday.The Office of the Nebraska Capitol Commission said it won't be offering tours that day or Christmas Day on Dec. 25. The Capitol will reopen for tours on Dec. 26.It will close again on Jan. 1 for New Year's Day.

Nebraska Capitol to close, offer no tours on Christmas Eve

Wellington J Storr, 51, North Platte and Carla Stuart-Dean, 48, North Platte

Jesse J Antonmarchi, 31, South Dakota and Sarah C Ryan, 24, North Platte

Publishes December 19, 20202Wellington J Storr, 51, North Platte and Carla Stuart-Dean, 48, North PlatteJesse J Antonmarchi, 31, South Dakota and Sarah C Ryan, 24, North Platte

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