I am disappointed and disgusted by Sen. Ben Sasse’s graduation speech to the Fremont High School Class of 2020. Sasse disparaged the graduates, their teachers, attacked mental health professionals, and promoted racism. Instead of building our graduates up, he promoted divisiveness and disrespect.

In his speech, Sasse implied the 2020 graduates are lazy and out of shape (the senator might check the Fremont High track and field records for girls. Nearly every record has been set in the past four years.). He belittled the accomplishments of graduates and rather than inspire, injected international politics into his rambling speech.

I believe Sasse owes an apology to Fremont and all 2020 graduates, educators and mental health professionals.

On behalf of the 28,000 educator members of the Nebraska State Education Association, I congratulate Nebraska’s 2020 graduates. This is a proud moment for you. Your teachers share in your excitement and celebrate accomplishments. We recognize and applaud you for the unique challenges your graduating class has faced. The Class of 2020 has earned an “A” for tenacity in overcoming the unique challenges created by the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Sasse receives an “F” for a graduation speech that will long be remembered for all the wrong reasons.

President, Nebraska State Education Association

<a href="mailto:Jenni.Benson@nsea.org" target="_blank">Jenni.Benson@nsea.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583891298960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Editor,I am disappointed and disgusted by Sen. Ben Sasse’s graduation speech to the Fremont High School Class of 2020. Sasse disparaged the graduates, their teachers, attacked mental health professionals, and promoted racism. Instead of building our graduates up, he promoted divisiveness and disrespect.In his speech, Sasse implied the 2020 graduates are lazy and out of shape (the senator might check the Fremont High track and field records for girls. Nearly every record has been set in the past four years.). He belittled the accomplishments of graduates and rather than inspire, injected international politics into his rambling speech.I believe Sasse owes an apology to Fremont and all 2020 graduates, educators and mental health professionals.On behalf of the 28,000 educator members of the Nebraska State Education Association, I congratulate Nebraska’s 2020 graduates. This is a proud moment for you. Your teachers share in your excitement and celebrate accomplishments. We recognize and applaud you for the unique challenges your graduating class has faced. The Class of 2020 has earned an “A” for tenacity in overcoming the unique challenges created by the pandemic.Meanwhile, Sasse receives an “F” for a graduation speech that will long be remembered for all the wrong reasons.Jenni BensonPresident, Nebraska State Education Association605 S. 14 St.Lincoln, NE 68508<a href="mailto:Jenni.Benson@nsea.org" target="_blank">Jenni.Benson@nsea.org</a>

Letters to the Post: Graduates Get an “A” - Sasse Gets an “F”

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that COVID-19 testing will come to several new communities this week.&nbsp; Test Nebraska will&nbsp;continue in Lincoln and Omaha, and other Test Nebraska mobile sites will open in North Platte, Scottsbluff, Thedford, West Point, and Dakota City.&nbsp; Additionally, the National Guard will conduct testing in David City, Fremont, Omaha, and Wahoo in conjunction with the State’s public health lab.

At this afternoon’s press conference, the Governor also designated May 17-23, 2020 as Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week in Nebraska.&nbsp; Dr. James E. Smith, emergency medicine physician at Great Plains Health and chair of the State’s EMS Board, accepted the official proclamation on behalf of the state’s EMS professionals.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the month of May, we are reminding people to follow our Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home.&nbsp; Do not take unnecessary trips outside the home.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limit.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Socially distance your work. &nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Shop alone and only shop once a week. &nbsp;Do not take family with you.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Help kids follow social distancing. &nbsp;Play at home. &nbsp;No group sports and no playgrounds.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. &nbsp;Do not visit long-term care facilities.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7Cddcdd8dd72ba4ed3d06a08d7fb720738%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637254339478551843&amp;sdata=G7rSDG%2BSnlIgbxdi8HCh4ioAttG0midTnFOq9WHHRvU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This week we are deploying testing in the following communities:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;National Guard: Wahoo, Omaha, Fremont, and David City

o&nbsp;&nbsp;National Guard with Test Nebraska: Omaha, Lincoln, North Platte, Scottsbluff, Thedford, West Point, and Dakota City.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emergency rooms and Emergency Medical Services professionals across the state have been helping to deliver outstanding care throughout the pandemic.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I want to thank every professional and volunteer who is helping take care of people during this very difficult time.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They have some of the hardest jobs in the state.&nbsp; They take care of people in tough situations when their health is on the line.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To honor their work, I am signing a proclamation declaring Emergency Medical Services Week in Nebraska.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Nebraskans call 9-1-1, a host of people spring into action to provide help.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;A dispatcher quickly gathers critical information to determine which assets to deploy to the situation.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;A law enforcement officer may be the first to arrive on the scene, rendering life-saving treatment such as CPR, defibrillation, or stopping active bleeding while EMS personnel are on the way.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS providers then arrive.&nbsp; They may be first responders, EMTs, paramedics, or nurses. &nbsp;Firefighters also assist in giving care while helping to extricate the victim.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;The patient is then rapidly transported to an emergency department, while treatment is administered in a moving vehicle or in the back of a helicopter.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;At the emergency department, hospital staff seek to treat and stabilize patients. &nbsp;In some cases, EMS personnel must again transport critically injured patients to a higher level of care.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dedicated maintenance personnel keep ambulances and aircrafts at a mission-ready status. &nbsp;Drivers and pilots have the difficult task of providing timely and safe transportation.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-clinical staff in offices, hospitals, EMS bases, fire agencies, and government agencies give much-needed support to the system.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Training agencies work tirelessly to equip EMS staff to the best of their abilities.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the end of the day, someone has to make the conscious decision to answer the call for help.&nbsp; This call requires them to put their lives and well-being on the line.&nbsp; This has been especially true during the pandemic.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lastly, there’s always someone left behind—a spouse, child, parent, or friend—who watches their loved one walk out the door to answer the call and who prays for their safety.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Currently, the EMS community is supporting those affected by the crisis while also responding to the everyday emergencies that continue to occur.&nbsp; During the pandemic, they’ve faced challenges such as limited personal protective equipment (PPE) or having teammates stricken by the virus.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now more than ever, it is important that we honor and celebrate our EMS professionals as they support the health and wellbeing of our state and our nation.

Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/yvn48f11f0xpq7r/Press%20Conf%205.18.2020.mp4?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589884349223.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium, and the chair of the State’s EMS Board,&nbsp;Dr. James E. Smith (standing on far left, at today’s briefing." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium, and the chair of the State’s EMS Board,&nbsp;Dr. James E. Smith (standing on far left, at today’s briefing.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that COVID-19 testing will come to several new communities this week.&nbsp; Test Nebraska will&nbsp;continue in Lincoln and Omaha, and other Test Nebraska mobile sites will open in North Platte, Scottsbluff, Thedford, West Point, and Dakota City.&nbsp; Additionally, the National Guard will conduct testing in David City, Fremont, Omaha, and Wahoo in conjunction with the State’s public health lab.At this afternoon’s press conference, the Governor also designated May 17-23, 2020 as Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week in Nebraska.&nbsp; Dr. James E. Smith, emergency medicine physician at Great Plains Health and chair of the State’s EMS Board, accepted the official proclamation on behalf of the state’s EMS professionals.Gov. Ricketts: Six Rules Reminder·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the month of May, we are reminding people to follow our Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home.&nbsp; Do not take unnecessary trips outside the home.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limit.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Socially distance your work. &nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Shop alone and only shop once a week. &nbsp;Do not take family with you.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Help kids follow social distancing. &nbsp;Play at home. &nbsp;No group sports and no playgrounds.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. &nbsp;Do not visit long-term care facilities.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7Cddcdd8dd72ba4ed3d06a08d7fb720738%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637254339478551843&amp;sdata=G7rSDG%2BSnlIgbxdi8HCh4ioAttG0midTnFOq9WHHRvU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This week we are deploying testing in the following communities:o&nbsp;&nbsp;National Guard: Wahoo, Omaha, Fremont, and David Cityo&nbsp;&nbsp;National Guard with Test Nebraska: Omaha, Lincoln, North Platte, Scottsbluff, Thedford, West Point, and Dakota City.Gov. Ricketts: EMS Week·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emergency rooms and Emergency Medical Services professionals across the state have been helping to deliver outstanding care throughout the pandemic.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I want to thank every professional and volunteer who is helping take care of people during this very difficult time.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They have some of the hardest jobs in the state.&nbsp; They take care of people in tough situations when their health is on the line.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To honor their work, I am signing a proclamation declaring Emergency Medical Services Week in Nebraska.Dr. Jim Smith: EMS Week·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Nebraskans call 9-1-1, a host of people spring into action to provide help.o&nbsp;&nbsp;A dispatcher quickly gathers critical information to determine which assets to deploy to the situation.o&nbsp;&nbsp;A law enforcement officer may be the first to arrive on the scene, rendering life-saving treatment such as CPR, defibrillation, or stopping active bleeding while EMS personnel are on the way.o&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS providers then arrive.&nbsp; They may be first responders, EMTs, paramedics, or nurses. &nbsp;Firefighters also assist in giving care while helping to extricate the victim.o&nbsp;&nbsp;The patient is then rapidly transported to an emergency department, while treatment is administered in a moving vehicle or in the back of a helicopter.o&nbsp;&nbsp;At the emergency department, hospital staff seek to treat and stabilize patients. &nbsp;In some cases, EMS personnel must again transport critically injured patients to a higher level of care.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dedicated maintenance personnel keep ambulances and aircrafts at a mission-ready status. &nbsp;Drivers and pilots have the difficult task of providing timely and safe transportation.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-clinical staff in offices, hospitals, EMS bases, fire agencies, and government agencies give much-needed support to the system.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Training agencies work tirelessly to equip EMS staff to the best of their abilities.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the end of the day, someone has to make the conscious decision to answer the call for help.&nbsp; This call requires them to put their lives and well-being on the line.&nbsp; This has been especially true during the pandemic.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lastly, there’s always someone left behind—a spouse, child, parent, or friend—who watches their loved one walk out the door to answer the call and who prays for their safety.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Currently, the EMS community is supporting those affected by the crisis while also responding to the everyday emergencies that continue to occur.&nbsp; During the pandemic, they’ve faced challenges such as limited personal protective equipment (PPE) or having teammates stricken by the virus.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now more than ever, it is important that we honor and celebrate our EMS professionals as they support the health and wellbeing of our state and our nation.Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/yvn48f11f0xpq7r/Press%20Conf%205.18.2020.mp4?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces new COVID-19 testing sites, proclaims 'EMS Week' in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. – The 2020 Nebraska Big Game Guide is available in digital format at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MTguMjE2OTM4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.UJkR3uf48ejWAe-jAa0orJQzAdTx96MmK8aXnQvjzis/br/78798869571-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.

The publication is a summary of regulations, laws and orders pertaining to the hunting of deer, antelope, elk and bighorn sheep in Nebraska. It includes unit maps, as well as information on season dates, permits and bag limits. The guide soon will be available in hard copy wherever hunting permits are sold.

To view the guide online, click on Guides on the menu at the top of the home page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588938775407.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – The 2020 Nebraska Big Game Guide is available in digital format at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MTguMjE2OTM4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.UJkR3uf48ejWAe-jAa0orJQzAdTx96MmK8aXnQvjzis/br/78798869571-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.The publication is a summary of regulations, laws and orders pertaining to the hunting of deer, antelope, elk and bighorn sheep in Nebraska. It includes unit maps, as well as information on season dates, permits and bag limits. The guide soon will be available in hard copy wherever hunting permits are sold.To view the guide online, click on Guides on the menu at the top of the home page.

2020 Nebraska Big Game Guide available online

(AAA)-Pump prices continue to increase across the country with nearly every state’s average pushing more expensive on the week, on average by four cents. At the start of the Memorial Day work week, the national gas price average is $1.87.

The last time the national gas price average leading into the holiday was under $2/gallon was 17 years ago in 2003. That year motorists paid, on average, $1.50 to fill-up. Gas prices this year won’t be as cheap as 2003, but today’s national average is a dollar cheaper than one year ago.

Despite inexpensive gas prices, AAA anticipates this year’s holiday will likely set a record low for travel volume.

For the first time in 20 years, AAA will not issue a Memorial Day travel forecast due to COVID-19 impacts on the underlying economic data used to create the forecast.

Americans can expect gas prices to continue to push more expensive, possibly hitting $2/gallon in the next few weeks. This is mostly due to demand increasing as states re-open.

The nation’s largest weekly gas price increases can be found for a second week in the Great Lakes and Central States region. Five states from the region land on the top 10 list for largest jumps, though this week’s increases are less than a dime: Wisconsin (+7 cents, Iowa (+7 cents, Kansas (+7 cents, Nebraska (+5 cents) and Minnesota (+5 cents).

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that regional gasoline stocks have decreased for six straight weeks in the Great Lakes and Central States region, bringing total stock levels down to the lowest measurement of the year at 54 million bbl. However, stocks remain above the year-ago level of 49.5 million barrels and the five-year average of 52.6 million barrels.

News Release(AAA)-Pump prices continue to increase across the country with nearly every state’s average pushing more expensive on the week, on average by four cents. At the start of the Memorial Day work week, the national gas price average is $1.87.The last time the national gas price average leading into the holiday was under $2/gallon was 17 years ago in 2003. That year motorists paid, on average, $1.50 to fill-up. Gas prices this year won’t be as cheap as 2003, but today’s national average is a dollar cheaper than one year ago.Despite inexpensive gas prices, AAA anticipates this year’s holiday will likely set a record low for travel volume.For the first time in 20 years, AAA will not issue a Memorial Day travel forecast due to COVID-19 impacts on the underlying economic data used to create the forecast.Americans can expect gas prices to continue to push more expensive, possibly hitting $2/gallon in the next few weeks. This is mostly due to demand increasing as states re-open.The nation’s largest weekly gas price increases can be found for a second week in the Great Lakes and Central States region. Five states from the region land on the top 10 list for largest jumps, though this week’s increases are less than a dime: Wisconsin (+7 cents, Iowa (+7 cents, Kansas (+7 cents, Nebraska (+5 cents) and Minnesota (+5 cents).The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that regional gasoline stocks have decreased for six straight weeks in the Great Lakes and Central States region, bringing total stock levels down to the lowest measurement of the year at 54 million bbl. However, stocks remain above the year-ago level of 49.5 million barrels and the five-year average of 52.6 million barrels.

Motorists to see cheapest Memorial Day pump prices in nearly two decades

Five area high school students graduated with associate degrees from Mid-Plains Community College this month before receiving their high school diplomas.

The students are: Bonita Naughtin, of Sutherland; Anna Huffman, of Ogallala and Brittany Kava, Tatum Lange and Elliott Purdy of North Platte.

If the ceremonies hadn’t been altered because of coronavirus concerns, Naughtin would have walked at the college’s commencement in North Platte on May 8 and at her high school graduation May 9.

“I’m proud of all I accomplished,” Naughtin said. “I found out that I can do a lot more than I thought I could, and I learned a lot of useful skills such as time management. I’m really excited to have a start on a science career thanks to the classes I took at MPCC. The path I’m pursuing will take a while, and it’s nice to have some of it behind me so that it’s not so daunting.”

Naughtin plans to transfer her credits from MPCC to the University of Nebraska at Kearney where she will major in biology with an emphasis in health care.

Instead of going the dual credit route, she chose to take a full course load of high school classes alongside a full course load of college classes.

“I took my first MPCC class the summer after my freshman year of high school,” Naughtin said. “It was so convenient to be close to Mid-Plains and wonderful that the college offered so many online options. I got to work with some excellent instructors. Because there were only 20 students in my high school graduating class, MPCC offered a gradual transition into a university system.”

Naughtin’s goal is to obtain a bachelor’s degree from UNK then enter a medical program. She hopes to one day become a practicing physician in a rural area.

Huffman recently moved to Lincoln so that she can begin radiology technology classes at Southeast Community College.

“I will only have to take three prerequisites before entering the radiology program because of all the dual credit courses I took through MPCC,” said Huffman. “That puts me almost a full year ahead.”

She took her first dual credit classes the second semester of her freshman year of high school.

“I had a friend who said she was going to take them, so it became kind of a competitive thing,” Huffman said. “I became determined to take some, too. I visited with my guidance counselor, who had an overload of information. I signed up for the classes he recommended that would best put me on the path to my degree.”

Huffman took courses both online and in her high school classrooms.

“Although still challenging, the college classes were easier than I thought they would be,” Huffman said. “The feeling at the end, the accomplishment, is more than I could have ever imagined. Dual credit put me so far ahead that the benefits are extravagant. Every dollar I saved per credit hour, adds up.”

Huffman earned an Associate of Science Degree from MPCC. She plans to practice in a rural area after her radiology program is over.&nbsp;

Kava’s graduation from North Platte High School would have been May 17 – more than a week after obtaining an associate degree from MPCC.

Her first dual credit class was Anatomy and Physiology her junior year.

“I took a total of three dual credit classes that year, but by my senior year, all of my classes were dual credit except for one,” Kava said. “I also took two online classes through Mid-Plains.”

While she found the college classes to be a bit more advanced than she was used to, it was nothing she couldn’t handle.

“It was completely worth it – especially since I already knew what I wanted to go into in college,” Kava said. “It cut down on the time I will need for my overall studies, helped me get a better understanding of what college will be like and saved me money. The classes and books were much less expensive through MPCC than through a university.”

Kava plans to transfer to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln where she will major in biochemistry. After that, she hopes to be accepted into medical school and become a doctor.

“Right now, I’m thinking obstetrics,” Kava said. “I really like babies, so I’m trying to decide between that and becoming a pediatrician in a children’s hospital. Because I won’t have as heavy of a course load at UNL as other students, I will have more time to job shadow and research the fields I’m considering.”

Lange’s experience with dual credit was so positive that she now wants to become a dual credit instructor, herself.

“I don’t think I would have thought about that otherwise,” said Lange.

Like Kava, Lange attended North Platte High School. She took her first MPCC class her sophomore year.

“It was a weight class with Scott Mollring, who was my track coach at the time,” Lange said. “That same year, I started taking my ‘core classes’ at the high school, like math, science and English through dual credit. Over the next couple of years, I continued taking dual credit courses, and last fall, also added two online classes through MPCC.”

That will make Lange a junior when she enrolls at Black Hills State University.

“With the degree I’m pursuing, students can go into classrooms and start observing as juniors,” Lange said. “So, I will have the option of doing that much earlier than if I had not opted for dual credit courses. I’m grateful to the advisors at MPCC who helped me figure out what classes to take and when.”

She’s also appreciative of the cost-savings.

“The financial aspect was a really big deal,” Lange said. “I won’t have to pay full price for the same classes at the university.”

Lange earned an Associate of Science Degree from MPCC. Her goal is to one day teach health science or the advanced sciences.

“I’ve always been really involved with science and have always like labs,” said Lange. “This year, especially, the teachers I had were a big part of my life. I want to be that for someone else.”

Purdy began taking dual credit and online classes through MPCC the fall of his sophomore year at North Platte High School.

“From that point on, probably 75 percent of my classes were dual credit,” Purdy said.

He received guidance on what classes to take from his mother, Leah Purdy, who teaches Music Appreciation in a dual credit format for MPCC, and his father, Ryan Purdy, who is MPCC’s president.

“As for the classes, themselves, my instructors were super helpful,” Elliott said. “They all had the best interest of their students in mind.”

The head start he received through MPCC will allow Elliott to enter the University of Nebraska – Lincoln as a junior this fall. He plans to double major in architecture and construction management.

“Having my generals out of the way will allow me to jump straight into career development,” Elliott said. “I will be able to get both bachelor’s degrees in two years, and then in two more years will be able to get my Master of Business Administration degree.”

Elliott’s goal is to eventually own a construction business. He’s that much closer to the dream thanks to an Associate of Science Degree from MPCC.

“If current students are even considering taking dual credit classes, I would absolutely encourage them to do it,” Elliott said. “It’s basically taking two classes at once. For example, it doesn’t make sense to take a high-level math class in high school then do it all over again in college. Dual credit is the way to go.”

More information about MPCC’s dual credit offerings can be found online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">mpcc.edu</a>.

Five area high school students graduated with associate degrees from Mid-Plains Community College this month before receiving their high school diplomas.The students are: Bonita Naughtin, of Sutherland; Anna Huffman, of Ogallala and Brittany Kava, Tatum Lange and Elliott Purdy of North Platte.<a>Bonita Naughtin</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589848062323.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If the ceremonies hadn’t been altered because of coronavirus concerns, Naughtin would have walked at the college’s commencement in North Platte on May 8 and at her high school graduation May 9.“I’m proud of all I accomplished,” Naughtin said. “I found out that I can do a lot more than I thought I could, and I learned a lot of useful skills such as time management. I’m really excited to have a start on a science career thanks to the classes I took at MPCC. The path I’m pursuing will take a while, and it’s nice to have some of it behind me so that it’s not so daunting.”Naughtin plans to transfer her credits from MPCC to the University of Nebraska at Kearney where she will major in biology with an emphasis in health care.Instead of going the dual credit route, she chose to take a full course load of high school classes alongside a full course load of college classes.“I took my first MPCC class the summer after my freshman year of high school,” Naughtin said. “It was so convenient to be close to Mid-Plains and wonderful that the college offered so many online options. I got to work with some excellent instructors. Because there were only 20 students in my high school graduating class, MPCC offered a gradual transition into a university system.”Naughtin’s goal is to obtain a bachelor’s degree from UNK then enter a medical program. She hopes to one day become a practicing physician in a rural area.<a>Anna Huffman</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589848080816.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Huffman recently moved to Lincoln so that she can begin radiology technology classes at Southeast Community College.“I will only have to take three prerequisites before entering the radiology program because of all the dual credit courses I took through MPCC,” said Huffman. “That puts me almost a full year ahead.”She took her first dual credit classes the second semester of her freshman year of high school.“I had a friend who said she was going to take them, so it became kind of a competitive thing,” Huffman said. “I became determined to take some, too. I visited with my guidance counselor, who had an overload of information. I signed up for the classes he recommended that would best put me on the path to my degree.”Huffman took courses both online and in her high school classrooms.“Although still challenging, the college classes were easier than I thought they would be,” Huffman said. “The feeling at the end, the accomplishment, is more than I could have ever imagined. Dual credit put me so far ahead that the benefits are extravagant. Every dollar I saved per credit hour, adds up.”Huffman earned an Associate of Science Degree from MPCC. She plans to practice in a rural area after her radiology program is over.&nbsp;Brittany Kava<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589848112025.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kava’s graduation from North Platte High School would have been May 17 – more than a week after obtaining an associate degree from MPCC.Her first dual credit class was Anatomy and Physiology her junior year.“I took a total of three dual credit classes that year, but by my senior year, all of my classes were dual credit except for one,” Kava said. “I also took two online classes through Mid-Plains.”While she found the college classes to be a bit more advanced than she was used to, it was nothing she couldn’t handle.“It was completely worth it – especially since I already knew what I wanted to go into in college,” Kava said. “It cut down on the time I will need for my overall studies, helped me get a better understanding of what college will be like and saved me money. The classes and books were much less expensive through MPCC than through a university.”Kava plans to transfer to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln where she will major in biochemistry. After that, she hopes to be accepted into medical school and become a doctor.“Right now, I’m thinking obstetrics,” Kava said. “I really like babies, so I’m trying to decide between that and becoming a pediatrician in a children’s hospital. Because I won’t have as heavy of a course load at UNL as other students, I will have more time to job shadow and research the fields I’m considering.”<a>Tatum Lange</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589848130083.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lange’s experience with dual credit was so positive that she now wants to become a dual credit instructor, herself.“I don’t think I would have thought about that otherwise,” said Lange.Like Kava, Lange attended North Platte High School. She took her first MPCC class her sophomore year.“It was a weight class with Scott Mollring, who was my track coach at the time,” Lange said. “That same year, I started taking my ‘core classes’ at the high school, like math, science and English through dual credit. Over the next couple of years, I continued taking dual credit courses, and last fall, also added two online classes through MPCC.”That will make Lange a junior when she enrolls at Black Hills State University.“With the degree I’m pursuing, students can go into classrooms and start observing as juniors,” Lange said. “So, I will have the option of doing that much earlier than if I had not opted for dual credit courses. I’m grateful to the advisors at MPCC who helped me figure out what classes to take and when.”She’s also appreciative of the cost-savings.“The financial aspect was a really big deal,” Lange said. “I won’t have to pay full price for the same classes at the university.”Lange earned an Associate of Science Degree from MPCC. Her goal is to one day teach health science or the advanced sciences.“I’ve always been really involved with science and have always like labs,” said Lange. “This year, especially, the teachers I had were a big part of my life. I want to be that for someone else.”<a>Elliott Purdy</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589848147016.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Purdy began taking dual credit and online classes through MPCC the fall of his sophomore year at North Platte High School.“From that point on, probably 75 percent of my classes were dual credit,” Purdy said.He received guidance on what classes to take from his mother, Leah Purdy, who teaches Music Appreciation in a dual credit format for MPCC, and his father, Ryan Purdy, who is MPCC’s president.“As for the classes, themselves, my instructors were super helpful,” Elliott said. “They all had the best interest of their students in mind.”The head start he received through MPCC will allow Elliott to enter the University of Nebraska – Lincoln as a junior this fall. He plans to double major in architecture and construction management.“Having my generals out of the way will allow me to jump straight into career development,” Elliott said. “I will be able to get both bachelor’s degrees in two years, and then in two more years will be able to get my Master of Business Administration degree.”Elliott’s goal is to eventually own a construction business. He’s that much closer to the dream thanks to an Associate of Science Degree from MPCC.“If current students are even considering taking dual credit classes, I would absolutely encourage them to do it,” Elliott said. “It’s basically taking two classes at once. For example, it doesn’t make sense to take a high-level math class in high school then do it all over again in college. Dual credit is the way to go.”More information about MPCC’s dual credit offerings can be found online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">mpcc.edu</a>.

Five high school students earn associate degrees from MPCC

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska farmers have planted most of the expected corn crop and are making good progress on soybean planting, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Monday.

The USDA said farmers had planted 91% of the corn crop as of Sunday, putting them far ahead of the 63% that had been planted by this time last year. The five-year average for this date is 78%.

Farmers had planted 78% of expected soybeans, more than doubling the 34% from last year. The five-year average is 42%.

They were helped by good weather that made for 5.2 days suitable for field work.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska farmers have planted most of the expected corn crop and are making good progress on soybean planting, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Monday.The USDA said farmers had planted 91% of the corn crop as of Sunday, putting them far ahead of the 63% that had been planted by this time last year. The five-year average for this date is 78%.Farmers had planted 78% of expected soybeans, more than doubling the 34% from last year. The five-year average is 42%.They were helped by good weather that made for 5.2 days suitable for field work.

Nebraska farmers making progress on corn, soybean planting

Public Health Command Center daily update from North Platte on May 18, 2020.

Public Health Command Center daily update from North Platte on May 18, 2020.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F171091727641471%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥 Public Health Command Center Update from North Platte (May 18, 2020)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts warned Monday that the coronavirus pandemic will likely lead to state budget cuts and force lawmakers to water down two of his biggest priorities - a property tax bill for farmers and homeowners, and a new business incentive package.

His comments came after lawmakers announced plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4776b62ffd7032ce635ef2d667b1e36f" target="_blank">resume their regular session</a>&nbsp;on July 20.

It's not clear whether the property tax or business incentive measures had enough support to pass even before the pandemic. But the economic damage caused by business closures and social distancing has already led to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f1ce8cdc3106229ff0344d3608e17746" target="_blank">sharp downturn</a>&nbsp;in state revenue, making it much harder to approve either proposal.

"We are going to need to tighten our belts," Ricketts said at his weekday coronavirus news conference. "At this point we just don't know what all that is going to entail."

Ricketts said he still hopes lawmakers can address those priorities, but he acknowledged that people will need to "adjust expectations" for what can be done this year.

The property tax plan floated by key lawmakers seeks to lower property taxes by boosting state aid for K-12 schools but impose new restrictions on their taxing power, which school groups oppose. The business tax incentive package would replace the state's largest tax credit program for businesses, which is set to expire this year.

Nebraska has seen a few hopeful signs over the last few days, as the number of new, confirmed COVID-19 cases appeared to be trending downward. The state reported 576 new confirmed cases over the weekend, which was down from 743 the previous weekend. No news deaths were reported Sunday.

Even so, Ricketts said he wanted more caseload data before he decides whether to further ease social-distancing restrictions in June.

Meanwhile, more COVID-19 cases were confirmed at a western Omaha nursing home that reported scores of them last week, health officials said.

Two more residents and five more staff members at the Life Care Center of Elkhorn have tested positive in recent days, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/five-more-staffers-at-elkhorn-nursing-home-test-positive-for-coronavirus/article_f604513d-4a41-5e1d-8c49-dadabd3b745d.html#1" target="_blank">reported</a>. The new cases were reported Sunday. The center's executive director, Michelle Yosick, said residents who have tested positive have been isolated and are receiving care.

Last week, officials reported that 68 cases of the virus had been confirmed among residents and staff at the nursing facility in Omaha's Elkhorn community.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts warned Monday that the coronavirus pandemic will likely lead to state budget cuts and force lawmakers to water down two of his biggest priorities - a property tax bill for farmers and homeowners, and a new business incentive package.His comments came after lawmakers announced plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4776b62ffd7032ce635ef2d667b1e36f" target="_blank">resume their regular session</a>&nbsp;on July 20.It's not clear whether the property tax or business incentive measures had enough support to pass even before the pandemic. But the economic damage caused by business closures and social distancing has already led to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f1ce8cdc3106229ff0344d3608e17746" target="_blank">sharp downturn</a>&nbsp;in state revenue, making it much harder to approve either proposal."We are going to need to tighten our belts," Ricketts said at his weekday coronavirus news conference. "At this point we just don't know what all that is going to entail."Ricketts said he still hopes lawmakers can address those priorities, but he acknowledged that people will need to "adjust expectations" for what can be done this year.The property tax plan floated by key lawmakers seeks to lower property taxes by boosting state aid for K-12 schools but impose new restrictions on their taxing power, which school groups oppose. The business tax incentive package would replace the state's largest tax credit program for businesses, which is set to expire this year.Nebraska has seen a few hopeful signs over the last few days, as the number of new, confirmed COVID-19 cases appeared to be trending downward. The state reported 576 new confirmed cases over the weekend, which was down from 743 the previous weekend. No news deaths were reported Sunday.Even so, Ricketts said he wanted more caseload data before he decides whether to further ease social-distancing restrictions in June.Meanwhile, more COVID-19 cases were confirmed at a western Omaha nursing home that reported scores of them last week, health officials said.Two more residents and five more staff members at the Life Care Center of Elkhorn have tested positive in recent days, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/five-more-staffers-at-elkhorn-nursing-home-test-positive-for-coronavirus/article_f604513d-4a41-5e1d-8c49-dadabd3b745d.html#1" target="_blank">reported</a>. The new cases were reported Sunday. The center's executive director, Michelle Yosick, said residents who have tested positive have been isolated and are receiving care.Last week, officials reported that 68 cases of the virus had been confirmed among residents and staff at the nursing facility in Omaha's Elkhorn community.

Ricketts: Virus will force belt-tightening in state budget

LINCOLN, Neb.— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol made several arrests during incidents this weekend across the state.

On Friday at approximately 8:30 p.m. CT, a trooper was notified that a stolen Chevrolet Express van was traveling southbound on Highway 77 between Lincoln and Beatrice. The trooper was able to locate the vehicle near Adams and performed a traffic stop. The driver was found to be impaired and in possession of cocaine.

The driver, Danyaal Reid, 26, of Lincoln, was arrested for theft, driving under the influence of alcohol, open container, no operator’s license, and possession of a controlled substance. Reid was lodged in Gage County Jail.

On Saturday at approximately 12:00 p.m. MT, a trooper observed an eastbound Chevrolet Malibu speeding on Interstate 76 near the Interstate 80 interchange. The trooper conducted a traffic stop and detected clandestine activity. Troopers searched the vehicle and discovered 12 pounds of marijuana, 2 ounces of hash, and more than $7,000 cash.

The driver, Allison Hoban, 22, of Austin, Minnesota, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of money during a drug violation, and no drug tax stamp. Hoban was lodged in Deuel County Jail.

On Saturday at approximately 11:45 p.m., a trooper observed a Hyundai Elantra speeding near 30th&nbsp;and State Street in Omaha. The vehicle was clocked traveling at 78 miles per hour in a 35 miles per hour zone. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit, which traveled to 36th&nbsp;and King Street. The Elantra then struck a Dodge pickup and came to a stop. No parties were injured in the crash and the two occupants of the Elantra were immediately taken into custody.

The driver, a 17-year-old juvenile, was arrested for operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and traffic violations. He was lodged in the Douglas County Youth Center. The 16-year-old juvenile passenger was released to his mother.

LINCOLN, Neb.— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol made several arrests during incidents this weekend across the state.On Friday at approximately 8:30 p.m. CT, a trooper was notified that a stolen Chevrolet Express van was traveling southbound on Highway 77 between Lincoln and Beatrice. The trooper was able to locate the vehicle near Adams and performed a traffic stop. The driver was found to be impaired and in possession of cocaine.The driver, Danyaal Reid, 26, of Lincoln, was arrested for theft, driving under the influence of alcohol, open container, no operator’s license, and possession of a controlled substance. Reid was lodged in Gage County Jail.On Saturday at approximately 12:00 p.m. MT, a trooper observed an eastbound Chevrolet Malibu speeding on Interstate 76 near the Interstate 80 interchange. The trooper conducted a traffic stop and detected clandestine activity. Troopers searched the vehicle and discovered 12 pounds of marijuana, 2 ounces of hash, and more than $7,000 cash.The driver, Allison Hoban, 22, of Austin, Minnesota, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of money during a drug violation, and no drug tax stamp. Hoban was lodged in Deuel County Jail.On Saturday at approximately 11:45 p.m., a trooper observed a Hyundai Elantra speeding near 30th&nbsp;and State Street in Omaha. The vehicle was clocked traveling at 78 miles per hour in a 35 miles per hour zone. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit, which traveled to 36th&nbsp;and King Street. The Elantra then struck a Dodge pickup and came to a stop. No parties were injured in the crash and the two occupants of the Elantra were immediately taken into custody.The driver, a 17-year-old juvenile, was arrested for operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and traffic violations. He was lodged in the Douglas County Youth Center. The 16-year-old juvenile passenger was released to his mother.

Nebraska troopers have busy weekend

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraskans will enjoy this summer boating on waters across the state. To mark National Safe Boating Week, May 16-22, 2020, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging boaters to keep safety the top priority.

Boaters and paddlers should not take safety for granted. Game and Parks suggests ways boaters may reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

Before Launching – Ensure your boat is in good running condition. Get the boat registered and, if a nonresident, purchase an Aquatic Invasive Species sticker on the commission’s website. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Paddlers of kayaks or canoes should physically inspect their planned take-out point to make sure it is accessible.

Legal Operators – Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1985, who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course. Anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must be at least 14 years of age. For more information about boating regulations, view the 2020 Nebraska Boating Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MTguMjE2OTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.Xvro1a2ZwE22-v_GHG6nQv9e7fYDO4X1So_xpdAeoQI/br/78800857046-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.

Wear a Life Jacket – Children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a United States Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. People being towed by a boat on skis, a tube, or other similar devices also must wear a life jacket. Every vessel, except sailboards, must carry a flotation device for each person on board.

Avoid Alcohol – Boat operators can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence is a criminal violation and is enforced actively.

Have All Required Safety Equipment – Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats.

Be Wary of Surroundings – Look around for other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock. If padding a kayak or canoe, be aware of possible debris below the surface or under bridges.

Watch the Weather – Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary.

Avoid Hypothermia – Even though temperatures are rising, the water still can be cold. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold weather or water. Take caution to prevent hypothermia.

Go Fishing – Fishing is heating up across the state. Get your fishing permit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MTguMjE2OTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.q_YZmxd_SwVgUvPLVjlm2w8zzTsNldGFnwAs6ajvCOg/br/78800857046-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;and head to your favorite lake.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraskans will enjoy this summer boating on waters across the state. To mark National Safe Boating Week, May 16-22, 2020, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging boaters to keep safety the top priority.Boaters and paddlers should not take safety for granted. Game and Parks suggests ways boaters may reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.Before Launching – Ensure your boat is in good running condition. Get the boat registered and, if a nonresident, purchase an Aquatic Invasive Species sticker on the commission’s website. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Paddlers of kayaks or canoes should physically inspect their planned take-out point to make sure it is accessible.Legal Operators – Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1985, who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course. Anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must be at least 14 years of age. For more information about boating regulations, view the 2020 Nebraska Boating Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MTguMjE2OTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.Xvro1a2ZwE22-v_GHG6nQv9e7fYDO4X1So_xpdAeoQI/br/78800857046-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.Wear a Life Jacket – Children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a United States Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. People being towed by a boat on skis, a tube, or other similar devices also must wear a life jacket. Every vessel, except sailboards, must carry a flotation device for each person on board.Avoid Alcohol – Boat operators can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence is a criminal violation and is enforced actively.Have All Required Safety Equipment – Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats.Be Wary of Surroundings – Look around for other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock. If padding a kayak or canoe, be aware of possible debris below the surface or under bridges.Watch the Weather – Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary.Avoid Hypothermia – Even though temperatures are rising, the water still can be cold. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold weather or water. Take caution to prevent hypothermia.Go Fishing – Fishing is heating up across the state. Get your fishing permit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MTguMjE2OTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.q_YZmxd_SwVgUvPLVjlm2w8zzTsNldGFnwAs6ajvCOg/br/78800857046-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;and head to your favorite lake.

Nebraska Game and Parks urges safety while boating

North Platte Community College will not raffle a car this year – for the first time since the program was started in 2004.

Typically, students in NPCC’s Automotive and Auto Body Technology programs restore a classic car that tours the state and then is raffled to raise money for scholarships for the college’s transportation division and to help offset the cost of producing the next raffle car. The winning ticket is drawn during&nbsp;Colonel Cody’s Cruise Show and Shine in North Platte in the fall.

This year, however, the hands-on classes in which students would have worked on the car, were moved online as a precaution against COVID-19.

“The circumstances are unfortunate, but for the safety of our students, employees and the general public it’s best not to have a raffle car this year,” said Harwood. “We will be back in 2021, and I think everyone will like what we’ve been working on.”

The 2020 raffle car would have been the 16th restored by NPCC transportation students. Over $150,000 has been raised from the vehicles over the years.

More information about the college and its Automotive and Auto Body Technology programs can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/transportation" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/transportation</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589831183408.png" alt="Rudolph Zinsser, of Wheatland, Wyo., paints a raffle car in the Auto Body Technology department at North Platte Community College. NPCC will not raffle a car this year." />
 <figcaption>Rudolph Zinsser, of Wheatland, Wyo., paints a raffle car in the Auto Body Technology department at North Platte Community College. NPCC will not raffle a car this year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCNorth Platte Community College will not raffle a car this year – for the first time since the program was started in 2004.Typically, students in NPCC’s Automotive and Auto Body Technology programs restore a classic car that tours the state and then is raffled to raise money for scholarships for the college’s transportation division and to help offset the cost of producing the next raffle car. The winning ticket is drawn during&nbsp;Colonel Cody’s Cruise Show and Shine in North Platte in the fall.This year, however, the hands-on classes in which students would have worked on the car, were moved online as a precaution against COVID-19.“The circumstances are unfortunate, but for the safety of our students, employees and the general public it’s best not to have a raffle car this year,” said Harwood. “We will be back in 2021, and I think everyone will like what we’ve been working on.”The 2020 raffle car would have been the 16th restored by NPCC transportation students. Over $150,000 has been raised from the vehicles over the years.More information about the college and its Automotive and Auto Body Technology programs can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/transportation" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/transportation</a>.

Coronavirus affects plans for NPCC raffle car

The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) and many other law enforcement agencies across the state are teaming up to encourage seat belt use during the annual spring “Click It or Ticket” campaign.

“Travel patterns and road-trip vacations have certainly been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s still important for everyone on the road to drive safely and buckle up,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our troopers continue to patrol Nebraska’s roadways and will be working hard all summer to keep Nebraska safe.”

The campaign runs from May 18-May 31, which includes Memorial Day Weekend. The effort coincides with the mission of the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office (NDOT-HSO) to continue the increase of seat belt use in Nebraska.

Troopers will perform high-visibility patrols throughout the campaign. This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $25,000 from NDOT-HSO.

The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) and many other law enforcement agencies across the state are teaming up to encourage seat belt use during the annual spring “Click It or Ticket” campaign.“Travel patterns and road-trip vacations have certainly been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s still important for everyone on the road to drive safely and buckle up,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our troopers continue to patrol Nebraska’s roadways and will be working hard all summer to keep Nebraska safe.”The campaign runs from May 18-May 31, which includes Memorial Day Weekend. The effort coincides with the mission of the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office (NDOT-HSO) to continue the increase of seat belt use in Nebraska.Troopers will perform high-visibility patrols throughout the campaign. This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $25,000 from NDOT-HSO.

NSP 'Click It or Ticket' campaign begins

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers will resume their regular session on July 20, four months after they last met to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8f72fd5f1e549b3faed0fcc7b3ad695" target="_blank">approve emergency coronavirus</a>&nbsp;funding, officials said Monday.

The new schedule calls for lawmakers to meet every weekday until Aug. 13, except for Aug. 7 and Aug. 10.

Lawmakers abruptly postponed their session in late March amid fears that close contact would help spread the coronavirus. They have 17 days remaining in this year's 60-day session.

It's unclear how the virus and the economic damage that followed will affect bills that were pending. On Friday, the Nebraska Department of Revenue reported&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f1ce8cdc3106229ff0344d3608e17746" target="_blank">a sharp decline</a>&nbsp;in state tax collections last month. Revenue had previously been ahead of projections for the current fiscal year, but now it's roughly in line with what had been predicted.

Among the measures still pending is a bill that seeks to lower property taxes and a tax incentive program to attract businesses.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers will resume their regular session on July 20, four months after they last met to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8f72fd5f1e549b3faed0fcc7b3ad695" target="_blank">approve emergency coronavirus</a>&nbsp;funding, officials said Monday.The new schedule calls for lawmakers to meet every weekday until Aug. 13, except for Aug. 7 and Aug. 10.Lawmakers abruptly postponed their session in late March amid fears that close contact would help spread the coronavirus. They have 17 days remaining in this year's 60-day session.It's unclear how the virus and the economic damage that followed will affect bills that were pending. On Friday, the Nebraska Department of Revenue reported&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f1ce8cdc3106229ff0344d3608e17746" target="_blank">a sharp decline</a>&nbsp;in state tax collections last month. Revenue had previously been ahead of projections for the current fiscal year, but now it's roughly in line with what had been predicted.Among the measures still pending is a bill that seeks to lower property taxes and a tax incentive program to attract businesses.

Nebraska lawmakers to return to session on July 20

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Monday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Lincoln Towncar driven by Shawn M. White, 45, Cuba, Mo., was westbound on interstate 70 nine miles west of Hays.

The driver made an aggressive avoidance maneuver to avoid hitting another vehicle. 

The driver then over corrected. The car entered the north ditch and rolled one time.

EMS transported a passenger Chayce R. Hammock, 3, Cuba,&nbsp; to Hays Medical Center. White was not injured. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Monday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Lincoln Towncar driven by Shawn M. White, 45, Cuba, Mo., was westbound on interstate 70 nine miles west of Hays.The driver made an aggressive avoidance maneuver to avoid hitting another vehicle. The driver then over corrected. The car entered the north ditch and rolled one time.EMS transported a passenger Chayce R. Hammock, 3, Cuba,&nbsp; to Hays Medical Center. White was not injured. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

3-year-old hospitalized after car rolls on I-70

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Harnessing today's technology to the task of fighting the coronavirus pandemic is turning out to be more complicated than it first appeared. 

The first U.S. state-adopted smartphone apps for tracing the contacts of COVID-19 patients are running into technical glitches and so far have only been downloaded by a tiny fraction of residents. 

A second wave of tech-assisted pandemic surveillance tools backed by tech giants Apple and Google have other problems. 

All technology-based approaches for tracking the disease face major privacy issues, say groups like the ACLU, which has a new white paper on the danger of building a new surveillance state in the name of public health.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Harnessing today's technology to the task of fighting the coronavirus pandemic is turning out to be more complicated than it first appeared. The first U.S. state-adopted smartphone apps for tracing the contacts of COVID-19 patients are running into technical glitches and so far have only been downloaded by a tiny fraction of residents. A second wave of tech-assisted pandemic surveillance tools backed by tech giants Apple and Google have other problems. All technology-based approaches for tracking the disease face major privacy issues, say groups like the ACLU, which has a new white paper on the danger of building a new surveillance state in the name of public health.

Tech-assisted COVID-19 tracking is having some issues

ROCKERVILLE, S.D. (AP) — Seven canine teams from Colorado, Montana and Wyoming will be in South Dakota for a four-day search of a missing 9-year-old girl.

 Serenity Dennard was last seen in February of 2019 near the Black Hills Children's Home in Rockerville. 

The search changed from a rescue to a recovery effort not long after Serenity went missing.

 Authorities said Serenity likely wouldn’t have survived if she was outside in subzero temperatures. 

The canine teams will be in South Dakota from Saturday through Tuesday looking for Serenity.

 They will also search for 66-year-old Larry Genzlinger, of Howard. Genzlinger was last seen in October while elk hunting with his nephew.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582647623129.jpeg" alt="-Serenity Dennard" />
 <figcaption>-Serenity Dennard</figcaption>
 </figure>ROCKERVILLE, S.D. (AP) — Seven canine teams from Colorado, Montana and Wyoming will be in South Dakota for a four-day search of a missing 9-year-old girl. Serenity Dennard was last seen in February of 2019 near the Black Hills Children's Home in Rockerville. The search changed from a rescue to a recovery effort not long after Serenity went missing. Authorities said Serenity likely wouldn’t have survived if she was outside in subzero temperatures. The canine teams will be in South Dakota from Saturday through Tuesday looking for Serenity. They will also search for 66-year-old Larry Genzlinger, of Howard. Genzlinger was last seen in October while elk hunting with his nephew.&nbsp;

7 canine teams conduct 4-day search for Serenity Dennard in SD

The Nebraska National Guard planned on flying over Nebraska healthcare facilities to show their gratitude during a scheduled training exercise. However, due to weather, the exercise was postponed until Monday, May 18. Here is the planned schedule:

The Nebraska National Guard planned on flying over Nebraska healthcare facilities to show their gratitude during a scheduled training exercise. However, due to weather, the exercise was postponed until Monday, May 18. Here is the planned schedule:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589632849515.jpeg" alt="\" />
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National Guard to fly over Nebraska healthcare facilities on Monday

For the general public, CDC recommends wearing gloves when you are cleaning or caring for someone who is sick. Outside of these instances (for example, when using a shopping cart or using an ATM) will not necessarily protect you from getting COVID-19 and may still lead to the spread of germs.

The best way to protect yourself from germs when running errands and after going out is to regularly wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Unified Command confirms four new cases of COVID-19. A Cheyenne County male in his 40s and three female Scotts Bluff County residents, one in her 30s, one in her 40s, and one in her 90s. All cases are close contacts of a previously positive case.

The investigation is complete, all close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. There are no community exposure sites identified. Exposure is defined as at least 10 minutes, less than six feet apart.

The case count for Dawes County on the state map has been corrected and remains at one case.

• Cheyenne County: 10 cases (3 active, 7 recovered)

• Kimball County: 10 Cases (10 recovered)

• Morrill County: 10 Cases (6 active, 4 recovered)

• Scotts Bluff County: 54 Cases (22 active, 32 recovered)

Throughout the month of May, we are reminding people to respect the following to keep Nebraska healthy:

· Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and sanitize when available.

· Monitor your symptoms. If you experience a cough, fever, shortness of breath, headache, sore throat, chills, muscle pain, or loss of taste or smell call your doctor, clinic, or our 24/7 line at 308-262-5764 before going.

· Socially distance in public and at work. Use the six-foot rule as much as possible.

By PPHDFor the general public, CDC recommends wearing gloves when you are cleaning or caring for someone who is sick. Outside of these instances (for example, when using a shopping cart or using an ATM) will not necessarily protect you from getting COVID-19 and may still lead to the spread of germs.The best way to protect yourself from germs when running errands and after going out is to regularly wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.Unified Command confirms four new cases of COVID-19. A Cheyenne County male in his 40s and three female Scotts Bluff County residents, one in her 30s, one in her 40s, and one in her 90s. All cases are close contacts of a previously positive case.The investigation is complete, all close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. There are no community exposure sites identified. Exposure is defined as at least 10 minutes, less than six feet apart.The case count for Dawes County on the state map has been corrected and remains at one case.March 2-May 17, 2020Positive: 86Deaths: 0Recovered: 54Active cases: 32• Box Butte County: 1 case (recovered)• Cheyenne County: 10 cases (3 active, 7 recovered)• Dawes County: 1 case (active)• Kimball County: 10 Cases (10 recovered)• Morrill County: 10 Cases (6 active, 4 recovered)• Scotts Bluff County: 54 Cases (22 active, 32 recovered)Throughout the month of May, we are reminding people to respect the following to keep Nebraska healthy:· Wear a mask when possible.· Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and sanitize when available.· Monitor your symptoms. If you experience a cough, fever, shortness of breath, headache, sore throat, chills, muscle pain, or loss of taste or smell call your doctor, clinic, or our 24/7 line at 308-262-5764 before going.· Socially distance in public and at work. Use the six-foot rule as much as possible.· Only sit with people from your household when at church. Stay six feet from other households.· Stay home. Do not take unnecessary trips outside the home. Respect the ten-person limit. Non-essential out-of-state travel is discouraged.· Shop alone and only shop once a week. Do not take family with you.· Help kids follow social distancing. Play at home. No group sports. And no playgrounds.· Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. Do not visit long-term care facilities.· Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

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