LINCOLN, NEB. – This week Nebraska’s State FFA Convention brought hundreds of FFA students and their advisors from across the state to Lincoln. Each year the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation selects two recipients for their FFA Advisor of the Year award. This award honors FFA advisors for outstanding work in their local communities.

David Gibbens from West Holt Public Schools and Kris Rut from Arthur County Public Schools were honored at the Nebraska State FFA Convention on Thursday, April 4, in Lincoln. The winning advisors received a plaque and a $1,000 donation to their FFA chapter.

The teachers were nominated by their students and chosen based upon their school and community involvement, leadership development in their classroom, and their ability to keep their students involved in agriculture.

“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is proud to support these exceptional educators. They go above and beyond for their students and the industry they love, and the future of Nebraska agriculture is bright thanks to their work,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation.

Gibbens is the FFA Advisor for the West Holt FFA Chapter. The West Holt community describes Gibbens as “the guy on top of things.” Gibbens strives to help students find success in and out of the classroom. He has helped students created five school-based businesses, led countless career development event teams to states and nationals, and has helped grow chapter membership to the highest it has been in 30 years. Gibbens commitment to developing students into capable leaders in order to better the community is unmatched.

“'I am humbled to be named the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Advisor of the year. FFA Advisors across the state put in countless hours and work&nbsp;to develop members into future leaders of our communities and state. I am honored to receive&nbsp;this honor when so many are deserving,” said Gibbens.

Rut is the FFA Advisor for the Arthur FFA Chapter. Rut is incredibly integrated into her FFA chapter and community. She pushes her students to serve others through community outreach and stretch themselves professionally by trying new opportunities. While Rut has led many career development event teams to success, her students truly value that she defines success in unique ways: when they correctly dissect a calf, or decorate a Christmas tree for veterans, or restoring a community Mother-of-the-Year garden. Her commitment to bettering her students and community is evident.

“I am incredibly honored to be nominated by the Arthur County FFA members and recognized for this award. I am grateful to work in a field where exposing students to the diversity of agriculture and the traditional and non-traditional ways to be involved in the industry are top priorities. This is possible thanks to support from administrators, communities, and organizations who recognize the significance of Agriculture Education and FFA in our schools.

I am blessed to have awesome students and grateful for the many wonderful FFA Advisors throughout Nebraska! I appreciate the Farm Bureau’s investment in our students and programs by sponsoring this award and other programs, such as the Connecting Chapters Program and Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom,” said Rut.

The mission of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is to engage youth, educators, and the general public to promote an understanding of the vital importance of agriculture in the lives of all Nebraskans. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information about the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefbfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.nefbfoundation.org</a>.&nbsp;

Nebraska Farm Bureau&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB. – This week Nebraska’s State FFA Convention brought hundreds of FFA students and their advisors from across the state to Lincoln. Each year the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation selects two recipients for their FFA Advisor of the Year award. This award honors FFA advisors for outstanding work in their local communities.David Gibbens from West Holt Public Schools and Kris Rut from Arthur County Public Schools were honored at the Nebraska State FFA Convention on Thursday, April 4, in Lincoln. The winning advisors received a plaque and a $1,000 donation to their FFA chapter.The teachers were nominated by their students and chosen based upon their school and community involvement, leadership development in their classroom, and their ability to keep their students involved in agriculture.“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is proud to support these exceptional educators. They go above and beyond for their students and the industry they love, and the future of Nebraska agriculture is bright thanks to their work,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation.Gibbens is the FFA Advisor for the West Holt FFA Chapter. The West Holt community describes Gibbens as “the guy on top of things.” Gibbens strives to help students find success in and out of the classroom. He has helped students created five school-based businesses, led countless career development event teams to states and nationals, and has helped grow chapter membership to the highest it has been in 30 years. Gibbens commitment to developing students into capable leaders in order to better the community is unmatched.“'I am humbled to be named the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Advisor of the year. FFA Advisors across the state put in countless hours and work&nbsp;to develop members into future leaders of our communities and state. I am honored to receive&nbsp;this honor when so many are deserving,” said Gibbens.Rut is the FFA Advisor for the Arthur FFA Chapter. Rut is incredibly integrated into her FFA chapter and community. She pushes her students to serve others through community outreach and stretch themselves professionally by trying new opportunities. While Rut has led many career development event teams to success, her students truly value that she defines success in unique ways: when they correctly dissect a calf, or decorate a Christmas tree for veterans, or restoring a community Mother-of-the-Year garden. Her commitment to bettering her students and community is evident.“I am incredibly honored to be nominated by the Arthur County FFA members and recognized for this award. I am grateful to work in a field where exposing students to the diversity of agriculture and the traditional and non-traditional ways to be involved in the industry are top priorities. This is possible thanks to support from administrators, communities, and organizations who recognize the significance of Agriculture Education and FFA in our schools.I am blessed to have awesome students and grateful for the many wonderful FFA Advisors throughout Nebraska! I appreciate the Farm Bureau’s investment in our students and programs by sponsoring this award and other programs, such as the Connecting Chapters Program and Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom,” said Rut.The mission of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is to engage youth, educators, and the general public to promote an understanding of the vital importance of agriculture in the lives of all Nebraskans. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information about the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefbfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.nefbfoundation.org</a>.&nbsp;

Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation Announces  2024 FFA Advisors of the Year

Nebraska Attorney General's Office

The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office is issuing a Consumer Alert regarding an increase in Family Emergency Scams in Nebraska.

The Family Emergency, or Grandparents Scam, involves scammers reaching out to Nebraskans by phone and text with emotionally gripping stories and an urgent need for money. Scammers know you are more likely to give money to someone you trust, so they pose as family members in crisis.

These scams are a form of Imposter Scams. According to the FTC, Imposter Scams were the top reported fraud category last year, with more than 850,00 reports from consumers, and 21% of these reported a dollar loss.

Scammers may also pose as authority figures, like a bail bondsman, hospital representative, attorney, or police officer, requesting money on behalf of your family member.

If you receive a call or text like this, here are four things you can do:

For more, visit our consumer website at ProtectTheGoodLife.Nebraska.gov or call our Consumer Affairs Response Team at 402-471-2682.

Nebraska Attorney General's OfficeThe Nebraska Attorney General’s Office is issuing a Consumer Alert regarding an increase in Family Emergency Scams in Nebraska.The Family Emergency, or Grandparents Scam, involves scammers reaching out to Nebraskans by phone and text with emotionally gripping stories and an urgent need for money. Scammers know you are more likely to give money to someone you trust, so they pose as family members in crisis.These scams are a form of Imposter Scams. According to the FTC, Imposter Scams were the top reported fraud category last year, with more than 850,00 reports from consumers, and 21% of these reported a dollar loss.Scammers may also pose as authority figures, like a bail bondsman, hospital representative, attorney, or police officer, requesting money on behalf of your family member.If you receive a call or text like this, here are four things you can do:<ul>
 <li>Hang up. Even if the scammer tells you to keep it a secret, call the family member in question on a number you know is theirs. Contact other family members to confirm the story.</li><li>Verify the identity&nbsp;of anyone claiming to be an authority figure. If a scammer claims to be from a certain agency, hang up and contact the agency directly.</li><li>Don't send money.&nbsp;Scammers ask for payment methods like cash, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or mobile payment apps.</li><li>Stay calm.&nbsp;Scammers want to upset you. They know they have a bigger chance of stealing your money when your judgment is impaired.</li>
 </ul>For more, visit our consumer website at ProtectTheGoodLife.Nebraska.gov or call our Consumer Affairs Response Team at 402-471-2682.

Nebraska Attorney General's Office Issues Consumer Alert Regarding Family Emergency Scams

APRIL 4, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— There’s still time to become a Nebraska Trooper in 2024! Applications for Camp 70 close at 11:59 p.m. CT on Sunday, April 7 at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com</a>. Camp 70 begins this July and recruits will earn their badge in December 2024.

“We’re looking for the next generation of men and women to devote themselves to the noble cause of keeping Nebraska safe,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “There’s no limit to where you can take your career as a Trooper, and the best part is that you’ll be serving the people of Nebraska alongside an elite team of professionals who’ve dedicated their lives to the same mission.”

Troopers enjoy great benefits, numerous career paths, and the ability to serve in every corner of the state. Some of the benefits include:

$65,520 starting Trooper salary&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Free college tuition for you, dependents

$27.46 per hour pay during Camp&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4-day work week

2.5% bilingual pay incentive&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Take home patrol vehicle

Vacation, sick leave, holiday pay&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Retire at 50 with 25-years of service

Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $100 monthly expense allowance

Nebraska Troopers serve in communities throughout the state, in a variety of ways, including:

Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Recruiting&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Criminal Investigations&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Drone Operator&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

SWAT Team&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

K9 Handler&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Crash Reconstruction&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Narcotics Investigator&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Executive Protection&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Bomb Squad&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Husker Football Detail&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Helicopter/Plane Pilot&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by graduation, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the hiring process, benefits, opportunities, and recruiter contacts can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712237162585.jpeg" alt="NSP Cruiser (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>NSP Cruiser (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolAPRIL 4, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— There’s still time to become a Nebraska Trooper in 2024! Applications for Camp 70 close at 11:59 p.m. CT on Sunday, April 7 at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com</a>. Camp 70 begins this July and recruits will earn their badge in December 2024.“We’re looking for the next generation of men and women to devote themselves to the noble cause of keeping Nebraska safe,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “There’s no limit to where you can take your career as a Trooper, and the best part is that you’ll be serving the people of Nebraska alongside an elite team of professionals who’ve dedicated their lives to the same mission.”Troopers enjoy great benefits, numerous career paths, and the ability to serve in every corner of the state. Some of the benefits include:$65,520 starting Trooper salary&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Free college tuition for you, dependents$27.46 per hour pay during Camp&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4-day work week2.5% bilingual pay incentive&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Take home patrol vehicleVacation, sick leave, holiday pay&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Retire at 50 with 25-years of serviceHealth, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $100 monthly expense allowanceNebraska Troopers serve in communities throughout the state, in a variety of ways, including:Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Recruiting&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Carrier EnforcementCriminal Investigations&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Drone Operator&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Training AcademySWAT Team&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; K9 Handler&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mobile Field ForceCrash Reconstruction&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Narcotics Investigator&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Crisis NegotiatorExecutive Protection&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bomb Squad&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; LeadershipHusker Football Detail&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Helicopter/Plane Pilot&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And More!Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by graduation, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the hiring process, benefits, opportunities, and recruiter contacts can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com.</a>

Application Deadline to Become a Trooper in 2024 is Sunday, April 7

By Panhandle Public Health District

University of Nebraska Medical Center College (UNMC) College of Dentistry students, accompanied by dental residents and faculty members, will be in Gordon and Sidney on May 31 and June 1 for Dental Days. This is an opportunity for children ages 3 to 21 with little or no dental insurance to receive care at no cost. Children will be seen at Gordon Memorial Hospital and Life Smiles in Sidney.

“This will be the 20th year Dental Days has been offered in the Panhandle and providing important care for area kiddos. There are several partners that bring this event to fruition including local dentists, school nurses, hospitals, community volunteers, Open Plains Transit, and UNMC,” said Janelle Visser of Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD). Visser is one of the coordinators behind the annual event.

&nbsp;If you are interested in getting an appointment for your child at the Gordon location, contact Ashlei Tausan at 605-786-6147.

· If you are interested in getting an appointment for your child at the Sidney location, a prescreening must be conducted by May 10 at one of the following dental offices:

Transportation for Dental Days is available at no cost. This can be set up by calling Open Plains Transit 308-761-8747 by May 17.

For additional information about dental health or Dental Days, visit www.pphd.ne.gov. 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.ne.gov.

By Panhandle Public Health DistrictUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center College (UNMC) College of Dentistry students, accompanied by dental residents and faculty members, will be in Gordon and Sidney on May 31 and June 1 for Dental Days. This is an opportunity for children ages 3 to 21 with little or no dental insurance to receive care at no cost. Children will be seen at Gordon Memorial Hospital and Life Smiles in Sidney.“This will be the 20th year Dental Days has been offered in the Panhandle and providing important care for area kiddos. There are several partners that bring this event to fruition including local dentists, school nurses, hospitals, community volunteers, Open Plains Transit, and UNMC,” said Janelle Visser of Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD). Visser is one of the coordinators behind the annual event.&nbsp;If you are interested in getting an appointment for your child at the Gordon location, contact Ashlei Tausan at 605-786-6147.· If you are interested in getting an appointment for your child at the Sidney location, a prescreening must be conducted by May 10 at one of the following dental offices:· Bridgeport - Dr. Iske· Chappell - Dr. Dickey· Sidney - Dr. DornbierTransportation for Dental Days is available at no cost. This can be set up by calling Open Plains Transit 308-761-8747 by May 17.For additional information about dental health or Dental Days, visit www.pphd.ne.gov. 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.ne.gov.

Gordon and Sidney children eligible for free Dental care

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The Nebraska School Activities Association on Thursday voted 6-2 in favor of offering Jennifer Schwartz a 2-year contract to remain as Executive Director of NSAA.

&nbsp; On July 1. 2023, Schwartz took over as Interim Executive Director for Jay Bellar following his retirement from the position.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Nebraska School Activities Association on Thursday voted 6-2 in favor of offering Jennifer Schwartz a 2-year contract to remain as Executive Director of NSAA.&nbsp; On July 1. 2023, Schwartz took over as Interim Executive Director for Jay Bellar following his retirement from the position.

 Schwartz gets two year-contract to remain NSAA Director

OMAHA, Neb., April 4, 2024&nbsp;– Caramel popcorn, apples, and candies don’t get to have all the fun on National Caramel Day. Scooter’s Coffee is celebrating the occasion with a special offer on our signature Caramelicious drink.

On Friday, April 5, 2024, customers can use the Scooter’s Coffee mobile app to redeem an offer for $2 off any size Caramelicious beverage. Our signature drink combines our world-class espresso with milk and the rich flavor of velvety caramel. The drink is topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for the finishing touch.

The offer applies to any size of Caramelicious drink whether you order it hot, iced, or blended. The offer must be redeemed only on Friday, April 5, 2024, by using the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.TZ663KbgBa-2FTTklgYFe0HAcnSqM7brWEPZrDw3-2FnZSsgy6EjV4O5BCvxRgTV6IFfkmqGlkC272L1oiGFI4NQrw-3D-3D4OSZ_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtFwRbSsOR-2BccTRSiF15eQTyDA0EttF5IBJrGGJ2afHbUQmo3xzj2gJ5Y0-2FIk-2BSSVWMQ1osYNEZU-2F2Kd9lQLtq7gy2-2F-2F4ktlT0hPnsgdSOnukW6UvHnNyXj7duRbCX-2BLHUaU6kJ8GDMtOa-2F9KuwEQU4XKDLJTdwfH2HvDd7AUSGLXm7lUcy5gAslhLHtUYSs7MFu9Z3ORqmpl-2BJ0pyzcgZ7TZRt4D5bmbYd-2F5lTozCXDaiv14ICNWcuooRw7140Ye-2BH96Jn-2BpH3Csm5F6qo-2B0iJ-2BZ5PM0-2FLzIhRICLNlIT9TixfkJ8vFo09WFfpAhopisR3Qx7SRZfrB1stjJFIzB-2FpQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Scooter’s Coffee mobile app</a>&nbsp;available for iOS and Android devices. Customers can redeem the offer in the app by activating the reward and then either having their QR code scanned at the window or by placing a mobile order in advance.

The legendary Caramelicious drinks can be perfectly paired with our Caramelicious cake bite. Our decadent cake bites are oozing with sweet and rich caramel, from the cake to the creamy caramel sauce-filled center. The Caramelicious muffin brings the buttery caramel goodness through a freshly baked soft pastry infused with caramel flavor and topped with caramel drizzle.

Download the Scooter’s Coffee app and Scoot on Around™ to your local&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.TZ663KbgBa-2FTTklgYFe0HAcnSqM7brWEPZrDw3-2FnZSsNi85CpIbvSb2W4jr-2F1PYd2gBFpGd93JFvG4rySYlQBw-3D-3DLldW_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtFwRbSsOR-2BccTRSiF15eQTyDA0EttF5IBJrGGJ2afHbUQmo3xzj2gJ5Y0-2FIk-2BSSVWMQ1osYNEZU-2F2Kd9lQLtq7gy2-2F-2F4ktlT0hPnsgdSOnukW6UvHnNyXj7duRbCX-2BLHUaU6kJ8GDMtOa-2F9KuwEQU4XKDLJTdwfH2HvDd7AUSGLXuEFESxkvFwVqiviKHWXSzlfoVG5GUKLAprYHX9e-2Ffkt9cRo4Cv32y8mVQI1PoC-2BkQ-2F3Fc6pwISV6Ltc85vJrCHoystUk-2FARufpy-2FvLoduosEvia2N3CIth1MO-2FvVo44tocMbgaMBI1q8z4edirHQEukxl9fD2y7T6NMs51XviUQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Scooter’s Coffee location</a>&nbsp;to celebrate National Caramel Day on Friday, April 5.

Scooter's CoffeeOMAHA, Neb., April 4, 2024&nbsp;– Caramel popcorn, apples, and candies don’t get to have all the fun on National Caramel Day. Scooter’s Coffee is celebrating the occasion with a special offer on our signature Caramelicious drink.On Friday, April 5, 2024, customers can use the Scooter’s Coffee mobile app to redeem an offer for $2 off any size Caramelicious beverage. Our signature drink combines our world-class espresso with milk and the rich flavor of velvety caramel. The drink is topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for the finishing touch.The offer applies to any size of Caramelicious drink whether you order it hot, iced, or blended. The offer must be redeemed only on Friday, April 5, 2024, by using the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.TZ663KbgBa-2FTTklgYFe0HAcnSqM7brWEPZrDw3-2FnZSsgy6EjV4O5BCvxRgTV6IFfkmqGlkC272L1oiGFI4NQrw-3D-3D4OSZ_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtFwRbSsOR-2BccTRSiF15eQTyDA0EttF5IBJrGGJ2afHbUQmo3xzj2gJ5Y0-2FIk-2BSSVWMQ1osYNEZU-2F2Kd9lQLtq7gy2-2F-2F4ktlT0hPnsgdSOnukW6UvHnNyXj7duRbCX-2BLHUaU6kJ8GDMtOa-2F9KuwEQU4XKDLJTdwfH2HvDd7AUSGLXm7lUcy5gAslhLHtUYSs7MFu9Z3ORqmpl-2BJ0pyzcgZ7TZRt4D5bmbYd-2F5lTozCXDaiv14ICNWcuooRw7140Ye-2BH96Jn-2BpH3Csm5F6qo-2B0iJ-2BZ5PM0-2FLzIhRICLNlIT9TixfkJ8vFo09WFfpAhopisR3Qx7SRZfrB1stjJFIzB-2FpQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Scooter’s Coffee mobile app</a>&nbsp;available for iOS and Android devices. Customers can redeem the offer in the app by activating the reward and then either having their QR code scanned at the window or by placing a mobile order in advance.The legendary Caramelicious drinks can be perfectly paired with our Caramelicious cake bite. Our decadent cake bites are oozing with sweet and rich caramel, from the cake to the creamy caramel sauce-filled center. The Caramelicious muffin brings the buttery caramel goodness through a freshly baked soft pastry infused with caramel flavor and topped with caramel drizzle.Download the Scooter’s Coffee app and Scoot on Around™ to your local&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.TZ663KbgBa-2FTTklgYFe0HAcnSqM7brWEPZrDw3-2FnZSsNi85CpIbvSb2W4jr-2F1PYd2gBFpGd93JFvG4rySYlQBw-3D-3DLldW_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtFwRbSsOR-2BccTRSiF15eQTyDA0EttF5IBJrGGJ2afHbUQmo3xzj2gJ5Y0-2FIk-2BSSVWMQ1osYNEZU-2F2Kd9lQLtq7gy2-2F-2F4ktlT0hPnsgdSOnukW6UvHnNyXj7duRbCX-2BLHUaU6kJ8GDMtOa-2F9KuwEQU4XKDLJTdwfH2HvDd7AUSGLXuEFESxkvFwVqiviKHWXSzlfoVG5GUKLAprYHX9e-2Ffkt9cRo4Cv32y8mVQI1PoC-2BkQ-2F3Fc6pwISV6Ltc85vJrCHoystUk-2FARufpy-2FvLoduosEvia2N3CIth1MO-2FvVo44tocMbgaMBI1q8z4edirHQEukxl9fD2y7T6NMs51XviUQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Scooter’s Coffee location</a>&nbsp;to celebrate National Caramel Day on Friday, April 5.

Scooter’s Coffee® to Celebrate National Caramel Day with Caramelicious® Drink Deals

(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is reminding all drivers to keep their focus where it matters during Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Keep your eyes on the road and off your phone while you’re behind the wheel.

To kick off April, which is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, troopers, deputies, and officers are participating in a national mobilization focused on safe driving. The campaign began on Monday, April 1, and runs through Sunday, April 8.

“Through education and enforcement, our troopers are constantly working to keep Nebraska roads safe,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “When you’re behind the wheel, your primary focus should be driving. Help keep yourself and others safe by eliminating distractions by putting your phone down.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 3,000 people were killed in crashes involving distracted driving in 2022, accounting for 8% of all roadway fatalities across the country.

NSP’s portion of the&nbsp;U Drive. U Text. U Pay.&nbsp;campaign is made possible thanks to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is reminding all drivers to keep their focus where it matters during Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Keep your eyes on the road and off your phone while you’re behind the wheel.To kick off April, which is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, troopers, deputies, and officers are participating in a national mobilization focused on safe driving. The campaign began on Monday, April 1, and runs through Sunday, April 8.“Through education and enforcement, our troopers are constantly working to keep Nebraska roads safe,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “When you’re behind the wheel, your primary focus should be driving. Help keep yourself and others safe by eliminating distractions by putting your phone down.”According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 3,000 people were killed in crashes involving distracted driving in 2022, accounting for 8% of all roadway fatalities across the country.NSP’s portion of the&nbsp;U Drive. U Text. U Pay.&nbsp;campaign is made possible thanks to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

NSP Urges Focus During Distracted Driving Awareness Month

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

Gering Police are in search of a man who is a suspect in an assault with a hammer.&nbsp;

Panhandle Post is told that the man is described as a 5'8 Hispanic man who Police say drove away from the 1800 block of 20th street in Gering NE on Wednesday before a 911 call was made at the residence.

Any residents in the area of 20th and R street in Gering, NE that may have video footage they are willing to share, or information about the incident, and are asked to contact the Gering Police Dept at 308 436 5089.

&nbsp;Scottsbluff Journalist Timothy Mendez contributed to this article.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post Gering Police are in search of a man who is a suspect in an assault with a hammer.&nbsp;Panhandle Post is told that the man is described as a 5'8 Hispanic man who Police say drove away from the 1800 block of 20th street in Gering NE on Wednesday before a 911 call was made at the residence.Any residents in the area of 20th and R street in Gering, NE that may have video footage they are willing to share, or information about the incident, and are asked to contact the Gering Police Dept at 308 436 5089.&nbsp;Scottsbluff Journalist Timothy Mendez contributed to this article.

Gering Police searching for male suspect in hammer assault

Mid-Plains Community College will recognize its Medical Laboratory Technician graduates with a pinning ceremony May 10. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

It will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Room 213 of the Health and Science Center on the college’s South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd., in North Platte.

The following students will be recognized: Annah Wareham, of Hershey, Millie Foley, of Gothenburg and Olivia Davis and Teana Thompson, both of North Platte.

The pinning ceremony will be followed by commencement at 3 p.m. in the McDonald-Belton Building, also on the NPCC South Campus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712158371644.jpeg" alt="Olivia Davis and Annah Wareham, Medical Laboratory Technician students at Mid-Plains Community College, analyze a specimen during a lab. Both women will be part of the MLT graduating class this year. " />
 <figcaption>Olivia Davis and Annah Wareham, Medical Laboratory Technician students at Mid-Plains Community College, analyze a specimen during a lab. Both women will be part of the MLT graduating class this year. </figcaption>
 </figure>Heather JohnsonMPCCMid-Plains Community College will recognize its Medical Laboratory Technician graduates with a pinning ceremony May 10. The ceremony is free and open to the public.It will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Room 213 of the Health and Science Center on the college’s South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd., in North Platte.The following students will be recognized: Annah Wareham, of Hershey, Millie Foley, of Gothenburg and Olivia Davis and Teana Thompson, both of North Platte.The pinning ceremony will be followed by commencement at 3 p.m. in the McDonald-Belton Building, also on the NPCC South Campus.

 MLT grads to be recognized with pinning ceremony

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/02/steps-to-mitigate-deluge-of-sand-into-remote-trout-stream-doesnt-include-fine/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A Sandhills rancher and Cherry County won’t be fined for unleashing a deluge of sand into a remote trout stream, but they will have to take several steps to prevent further damage.

In April 2020, as heavy rains flooded pastures in Cherry County, rancher Dick Minor with the help of county crews dug a 2½-mile-long drainage ditch to the Snake River south of Merriman.

Rains followed, carving a chasm into the fragile soil and washing an estimated 1.6 million tons of sand and debris into the Snake, in violation of the Clean Water Act.

It turned a narrow, deep stream that sustained trout into a flat, sandy waterway similar to the Platte River 3 miles downstream.

Last week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved a work plan submitted by Minor and the county to avoid further damage.

The EPA said that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/06/06/epa-violation-filed-over-slow-response-to-mitigate-damage-to-sandhills-stream/">Minor and Cherry County had “multiple delays”</a>&nbsp;in submitting a work plan after agreeing to submit one in June 2021, shortly after the damage was done. The plan was finalized on Feb. 22.

The work, which is expected to take a year, includes:

No fines were assessed, according to a spokesman for the EPA’s Kansas City district office.

Allowing ‘natural forces’ to restore stream

Ben Washburn, the spokesman, said no mitigation work is being planned on the river itself after it was determined that letting “natural forces” restore the stream would prevent further damage.

“The Snake River has already started recovering through the formation of low flow channels through the deposited material,” Washburn said in response to questions from the Examiner.

“Massive excavation of the fill would cause substantial disturbance, additional local and downstream impacts, and set back the recovery period by several years,” he added. “It is expected that the river will continue its recovery over time.”

The Snake River is a 126-mile-long tributary of the Niobrara River, which flows through the Sandhills from Sheridan County to where it is dammed to form Merritt Reservoir southwest of Valentine.

The Snake is one of the few trout streams in the state and is a challenging river for kayaks and canoes.

The stretch of the Snake below Merritt Reservoir is considered the best trout water in Nebraska, though access is all via private land. The state’s largest waterfall by volume, Snake River Falls, is also in that stretch.

Washburn said that aquatic life in the river was undoubtedly damaged by the sand erosion, but it was hard to quantify because data was not collected prior to the damage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712153768019.jpeg" alt=" More than a million tons of sand washed into Nebraska’s Snake River (running left to right in the foreground) when a rancher, without authorization, dug a channel (center) to drain a flooded pasture. (Courtesy of John Sidle)" />
 <figcaption> More than a million tons of sand washed into Nebraska’s Snake River (running left to right in the foreground) when a rancher, without authorization, dug a channel (center) to drain a flooded pasture. (Courtesy of John Sidle)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/02/steps-to-mitigate-deluge-of-sand-into-remote-trout-stream-doesnt-include-fine/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A Sandhills rancher and Cherry County won’t be fined for unleashing a deluge of sand into a remote trout stream, but they will have to take several steps to prevent further damage.In April 2020, as heavy rains flooded pastures in Cherry County, rancher Dick Minor with the help of county crews dug a 2½-mile-long drainage ditch to the Snake River south of Merriman.Rains followed, carving a chasm into the fragile soil and washing an estimated 1.6 million tons of sand and debris into the Snake, in violation of the Clean Water Act.It turned a narrow, deep stream that sustained trout into a flat, sandy waterway similar to the Platte River 3 miles downstream.Last week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved a work plan submitted by Minor and the county to avoid further damage.The EPA said that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/06/06/epa-violation-filed-over-slow-response-to-mitigate-damage-to-sandhills-stream/">Minor and Cherry County had “multiple delays”</a>&nbsp;in submitting a work plan after agreeing to submit one in June 2021, shortly after the damage was done. The plan was finalized on Feb. 22.The work, which is expected to take a year, includes:<ul>
 <li>Place downed trees and woody debris to construct sediment traps along the ditch.</li><li>Build earthen berms to prevent excessive flow of water and sediment down the ditch.</li><li>Place a series of woody debris fences and log structures along the ditch to trap sediment and create wildlife habitat.</li><li>Install a riparian corridor, consisting of native species, along sections of the Snake River.</li>
 </ul>No fines were assessed, according to a spokesman for the EPA’s Kansas City district office.<h2>Allowing ‘natural forces’ to restore stream</h2>Ben Washburn, the spokesman, said no mitigation work is being planned on the river itself after it was determined that letting “natural forces” restore the stream would prevent further damage.“The Snake River has already started recovering through the formation of low flow channels through the deposited material,” Washburn said in response to questions from the Examiner.“Massive excavation of the fill would cause substantial disturbance, additional local and downstream impacts, and set back the recovery period by several years,” he added. “It is expected that the river will continue its recovery over time.”<h2>One of state’s few trout streams</h2>The Snake River is a 126-mile-long tributary of the Niobrara River, which flows through the Sandhills from Sheridan County to where it is dammed to form Merritt Reservoir southwest of Valentine.The Snake is one of the few trout streams in the state and is a challenging river for kayaks and canoes.The stretch of the Snake below Merritt Reservoir is considered the best trout water in Nebraska, though access is all via private land. The state’s largest waterfall by volume, Snake River Falls, is also in that stretch.Washburn said that aquatic life in the river was undoubtedly damaged by the sand erosion, but it was hard to quantify because data was not collected prior to the damage.

Steps to mitigate deluge of sand into remote trout stream doesn’t include fine

The play, put on by NPCC’s theater department, opens tonight in the McDonald-Belton Theater. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. every evening through Saturday.

The play is adapted from the science fiction horror film of the same name from the 1950s. The plot focuses on aliens seeking to stop humanity from creating a doomsday weapon that could destroy the universe.

Admission is $5 per person and is payable at the door. The college’s students, faculty and staff will be admitted free with an ID.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712158295418.jpeg" alt="North Platte Community College students Lauren Franklin, portraying Paula Trent, and Daniel Manning, portraying Jeff Trent, act out a scene from “Plan 9 from Outer Space” during a dress rehearsal Tuesday evening." />
 <figcaption>North Platte Community College students Lauren Franklin, portraying Paula Trent, and Daniel Manning, portraying Jeff Trent, act out a scene from “Plan 9 from Outer Space” during a dress rehearsal Tuesday evening.</figcaption>
 </figure>Heather JohnsonNPCCThe play, put on by NPCC’s theater department, opens tonight in the McDonald-Belton Theater. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. every evening through Saturday.The play is adapted from the science fiction horror film of the same name from the 1950s. The plot focuses on aliens seeking to stop humanity from creating a doomsday weapon that could destroy the universe.Admission is $5 per person and is payable at the door. The college’s students, faculty and staff will be admitted free with an ID.The cast and crew list is as follows:Actors:<ul>
 <li>Jeff Trent/A Drunk&nbsp;- Daniel Manning</li><li>Lt. Harper/A Man&nbsp;- Lisselle Lucas</li><li>Eros/Mourner #3 - Cadence Brown</li><li>Paula Trent/Gravedigger #1- Lauren Franklin</li><li>Col. Tim Edwards/Gravedigger #2&nbsp;- Ryan Herzog</li><li>Tanna/Mourner #1-&nbsp;Bella Harwager</li><li>Larry/A Farmer&nbsp;- Angel Chua</li><li>A Widower/Gen. Roberts&nbsp;- Dominic Hatch</li><li>The Widower’s Wife&nbsp;- Wendi Galvan</li><li>Inspector Clay -&nbsp;Trenton Emmons</li><li>Officer Kelton/ A Preacher&nbsp;- Gianna Tejral</li><li>Danny/An Army Guy/Mourner #2&nbsp;- Makana Ronquillio</li><li>Alien Ruler/Edith/A Woman&nbsp;- Emme Lucas</li><li>Criswell&nbsp;- William Lewis</li><li>Radio Tower Operator&nbsp;- Joshia Wriedt</li><li>An Alien Voice&nbsp;- Ariadne Nester-Terry</li>
 </ul>Crew:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Direction and Design&nbsp;- Ritch Galvan, NPCC theater instructor</li><li>Production Stage Manager&nbsp;- Anja Tejral</li><li>Assistant Stage Manager&nbsp;- Sophia Perez</li><li>Rehearsal Assistant&nbsp;- Josiah Wriedt, of Norfolk</li>
 </ul>

“Plan 9 from Outer Space” opens tonight at NPCC

Thomas County Sheriff's Department

Thedford, Neb. - A collision between a vehicle and semi-truck over the weekend near Thedford left two dead and two injured according to officials.&nbsp;

Around 12:40 PM Saturday, March 30th, a Jeep Cherokee occupied by two adults and two minors was traveling east on Highway 2 near mile marker 211 east of Thedford, NE when it collided head on with a westbound tractor trailer.

Front seat occupants Justin Sprague, age 42 of Thedford, and Amy Mckillip, age 42 of Beatrice were pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. One minor passenger was transported by ground with serious life-threatening injuries to Great Plains Health in North Platte and then UNMC. 

The other minor passenger was transported by ground with serious but non-life threatening injuries to Great Plains Health and then Children's Hospital.&nbsp; The driver of the tractor trailer was assessed by EMS personnel and released at the scene.&nbsp;The extent of injuries is unknown at this time.

The accident remains under investigation by the Thomas County Sheriff's Office with assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol.

Accident response was a multi-agency effort consisting of Thedford Fire &amp; Rescue, Mullen Rescue, the Hooker County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Thomas County Sheriff's Office.

Thomas County Sheriff's DepartmentThedford, Neb. - A collision between a vehicle and semi-truck over the weekend near Thedford left two dead and two injured according to officials.&nbsp;Around 12:40 PM Saturday, March 30th, a Jeep Cherokee occupied by two adults and two minors was traveling east on Highway 2 near mile marker 211 east of Thedford, NE when it collided head on with a westbound tractor trailer.Front seat occupants Justin Sprague, age 42 of Thedford, and Amy Mckillip, age 42 of Beatrice were pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. One minor passenger was transported by ground with serious life-threatening injuries to Great Plains Health in North Platte and then UNMC. The other minor passenger was transported by ground with serious but non-life threatening injuries to Great Plains Health and then Children's Hospital.&nbsp; The driver of the tractor trailer was assessed by EMS personnel and released at the scene.&nbsp;The extent of injuries is unknown at this time.The accident remains under investigation by the Thomas County Sheriff's Office with assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol.Accident response was a multi-agency effort consisting of Thedford Fire &amp; Rescue, Mullen Rescue, the Hooker County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Thomas County Sheriff's Office.

Fatal accident over the weekend near Thedford according to officials

The North Platte Community College music department will offer a Summer Strings Camp in July. It’s the first time for the event July 8-14 and July 15-29.

The camp will consist of separate group sessions for beginners and intermediates as well as an orchestra ensemble. Seats, which are limited to the first 10 paid registrations in each class, are expected to fill up fast. The cost of each session is $100.

“I am excited to provide students with something we’ve never done before,” said Kristin Simpson, music instructor. “String programs are a very important part of any music department, and we have a strong need for them in West Central Nebraska. I thought this would be a fabulous opportunity to reach as many students as possible. This camp will also support the string program already present at North Platte Public Schools by offering not only lessons, but also a string orchestra.”

Simpson has years of experience with string programs. She received a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and taught as a string specialist in the Lincoln Public Schools before earning a master’s degree in violin performance from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

One of her teaching assistant responsibilities in Omaha was to teach a string skills class for education majors pursuing a music education degree.

The following is a lineup of the classes she will offer during the camp in North Platte.

The beginner group lessons will focus on the basics of playing and caring for the violin, viola, cello and bass. Students are expected to practice at home as well.&nbsp;

The violin and viola session will be from 9-9:45 a.m. each day and will be followed by the cello and bass workshop from 10-10:45 a.m.

Students in the intermediate group lessons will continue their study of playing in a group setting. No auditions are necessary, but the required playing ability is similar to what would be expected of seventh grade music students.

Participants must already know C, G (two octaves) and D majors. As with the beginner lessons, students are expected to review study material at home.

The violin and viola class will be every day from 11-11:45 a.m., and the cello and bass session will be from noon to 12:45 p.m.

The orchestra ensemble is for late-intermediate to advanced string players. Students will rehearse and perform in a group setting.

Playing ability is similar to that required for ninth grade and higher music abilities. No auditions are necessary for the orchestra, however, participants must have already learned all the beginner scales plus A major (two octaves), F major, the B-flat major scale (two octaves) and natural minor scales E, A, B, D and G.

The orchestra will practice from 1:30-2:30 p.m. daily.

Those interested in signing up for the camp can do so online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bceregister.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">bceregister.mpcc.edu</a>, by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:smeltzerj@mpcc.edu">smeltzerj@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or by calling (308) 535-3678.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712081982435.jpeg" alt="North Platte Community College student Breanna Lundgreen, of North Platte, plays the violin during a performance at the college earlier in the semester. The NPCC music department will offer a Summer Strings Camp in July." />
 <figcaption>North Platte Community College student Breanna Lundgreen, of North Platte, plays the violin during a performance at the college earlier in the semester. The NPCC music department will offer a Summer Strings Camp in July.</figcaption>
 </figure>Heather JohnsonNPCCThe North Platte Community College music department will offer a Summer Strings Camp in July. It’s the first time for the event July 8-14 and July 15-29.The camp will consist of separate group sessions for beginners and intermediates as well as an orchestra ensemble. Seats, which are limited to the first 10 paid registrations in each class, are expected to fill up fast. The cost of each session is $100.“I am excited to provide students with something we’ve never done before,” said Kristin Simpson, music instructor. “String programs are a very important part of any music department, and we have a strong need for them in West Central Nebraska. I thought this would be a fabulous opportunity to reach as many students as possible. This camp will also support the string program already present at North Platte Public Schools by offering not only lessons, but also a string orchestra.”Simpson has years of experience with string programs. She received a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and taught as a string specialist in the Lincoln Public Schools before earning a master’s degree in violin performance from the University of Nebraska Omaha.One of her teaching assistant responsibilities in Omaha was to teach a string skills class for education majors pursuing a music education degree.The following is a lineup of the classes she will offer during the camp in North Platte.Beginner group lessonsThe beginner group lessons will focus on the basics of playing and caring for the violin, viola, cello and bass. Students are expected to practice at home as well.&nbsp;The violin and viola session will be from 9-9:45 a.m. each day and will be followed by the cello and bass workshop from 10-10:45 a.m.Intermediate group lessonsStudents in the intermediate group lessons will continue their study of playing in a group setting. No auditions are necessary, but the required playing ability is similar to what would be expected of seventh grade music students.Participants must already know C, G (two octaves) and D majors. As with the beginner lessons, students are expected to review study material at home.The violin and viola class will be every day from 11-11:45 a.m., and the cello and bass session will be from noon to 12:45 p.m.Orchestra EnsembleThe orchestra ensemble is for late-intermediate to advanced string players. Students will rehearse and perform in a group setting.Playing ability is similar to that required for ninth grade and higher music abilities. No auditions are necessary for the orchestra, however, participants must have already learned all the beginner scales plus A major (two octaves), F major, the B-flat major scale (two octaves) and natural minor scales E, A, B, D and G.The orchestra will practice from 1:30-2:30 p.m. daily.Those interested in signing up for the camp can do so online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bceregister.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">bceregister.mpcc.edu</a>, by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:smeltzerj@mpcc.edu">smeltzerj@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or by calling (308) 535-3678.

NPCC music department announces Summer Strings Camp   

LINCOLN, NEB.–&nbsp;The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation awarded the Ron Hanson Collegiate Leader Scholarship to three members of Collegiate Farm Bureau at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) who are pursuing degrees from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR).

Emily Eilers, a senior from Wayne, Abygail Streff, a junior from Pierce, and Caleb Burnside, a freshman from Stapleton, each received a $1,500 scholarship.

Dr. Ron Hanson, professor emeritus at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, established the scholarship to reward students who prioritize leadership building activities while on campus.

“Dr. Hanson chose to continue his legacy of service through this scholarship, and we are so proud to steward his generous gift,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation. “Dr. Hanson is a longtime Farm Bureau member who recognizes the value of getting involved to make a difference, and this scholarship encourages the next generation of leaders who will make their voices heard and better their communities.”

This year’s recipients rose to the top of a strong candidate pool. Applicants were judged based on their involvement with UNL Collegiate Farm Bureau, volunteer and leadership activities, and their goals for the future.

Eilers is pursuing a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Studies Communications with minors in Agricultural Leadership and Grazing. She is involved in volunteer organizations including UNL Collegiate Farm Bureau, where she served as the vice president of communications and public relations, 4-H, where she helps youth learn concepts they can apply to their 4-H project, and FFA, where she assists with the Agricultural Communications Career Development Event at State FFA Convention. After graduation, Eilers plans to pursue a position in agriculture communications, working with farmers and ranchers to share their story with consumers in a purposeful way.

Streff is earning a degree in agricultural economics. Currently serving as president of UNL’s Collegiate Farm Bureau, Streff has immersed herself in all things Farm Bureau and agricultural advocacy. In addition to her education, Streff is currently serving as an intern for Governor Pillen’s office and recently represented Nebraska Farm Bureau at the American Farm Bureau Collegiate Discussion Meet. Upon her graduation, Streff plans to pursue a career that allows her to advocate for agriculture, sharing her passion for the industry.

Burnside is studying agribusiness during his time at UNL. While only a freshman, Burnside has been involved in&nbsp;the UNL&nbsp;Collegiate Farm Bureau; attending conferences and meetings to expand his network and knowledge. Burnside is actively involved&nbsp;in various&nbsp;agricultural organizations on campus&nbsp;including&nbsp;Alpha Gamma Sigma, Nebraska Agriculture Youth Council,&nbsp;and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program. After Burnside earns his degree, he plans to return to the family farm as the fourth generation to work the land.

“My congratulations to Emily, Abygail,&nbsp;and Caleb as recipients of the 2024&nbsp;Ron Hanson Collegiate Leader Scholarship. It is my privilege to help recognize their outstanding leadership contributions and campus involvement to the Nebraska Farm Bureau and its collegiate chapter.&nbsp; I applaud their efforts and goals as young agriculture&nbsp;leaders to be difference makers for the future of agriculture,” said Schafer.

The mission of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is to engage youth, educators, and the general public to promote an understanding of the vital importance of agriculture in the lives of all Nebraskans. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information about the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefbfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.nefbfoundation.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm Bureau&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB.–&nbsp;The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation awarded the Ron Hanson Collegiate Leader Scholarship to three members of Collegiate Farm Bureau at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) who are pursuing degrees from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR).Emily Eilers, a senior from Wayne, Abygail Streff, a junior from Pierce, and Caleb Burnside, a freshman from Stapleton, each received a $1,500 scholarship.Dr. Ron Hanson, professor emeritus at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, established the scholarship to reward students who prioritize leadership building activities while on campus.“Dr. Hanson chose to continue his legacy of service through this scholarship, and we are so proud to steward his generous gift,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation. “Dr. Hanson is a longtime Farm Bureau member who recognizes the value of getting involved to make a difference, and this scholarship encourages the next generation of leaders who will make their voices heard and better their communities.”This year’s recipients rose to the top of a strong candidate pool. Applicants were judged based on their involvement with UNL Collegiate Farm Bureau, volunteer and leadership activities, and their goals for the future.Eilers is pursuing a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Studies Communications with minors in Agricultural Leadership and Grazing. She is involved in volunteer organizations including UNL Collegiate Farm Bureau, where she served as the vice president of communications and public relations, 4-H, where she helps youth learn concepts they can apply to their 4-H project, and FFA, where she assists with the Agricultural Communications Career Development Event at State FFA Convention. After graduation, Eilers plans to pursue a position in agriculture communications, working with farmers and ranchers to share their story with consumers in a purposeful way.Streff is earning a degree in agricultural economics. Currently serving as president of UNL’s Collegiate Farm Bureau, Streff has immersed herself in all things Farm Bureau and agricultural advocacy. In addition to her education, Streff is currently serving as an intern for Governor Pillen’s office and recently represented Nebraska Farm Bureau at the American Farm Bureau Collegiate Discussion Meet. Upon her graduation, Streff plans to pursue a career that allows her to advocate for agriculture, sharing her passion for the industry.Burnside is studying agribusiness during his time at UNL. While only a freshman, Burnside has been involved in&nbsp;the UNL&nbsp;Collegiate Farm Bureau; attending conferences and meetings to expand his network and knowledge. Burnside is actively involved&nbsp;in various&nbsp;agricultural organizations on campus&nbsp;including&nbsp;Alpha Gamma Sigma, Nebraska Agriculture Youth Council,&nbsp;and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program. After Burnside earns his degree, he plans to return to the family farm as the fourth generation to work the land.“My congratulations to Emily, Abygail,&nbsp;and Caleb as recipients of the 2024&nbsp;Ron Hanson Collegiate Leader Scholarship. It is my privilege to help recognize their outstanding leadership contributions and campus involvement to the Nebraska Farm Bureau and its collegiate chapter.&nbsp; I applaud their efforts and goals as young agriculture&nbsp;leaders to be difference makers for the future of agriculture,” said Schafer.The mission of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is to engage youth, educators, and the general public to promote an understanding of the vital importance of agriculture in the lives of all Nebraskans. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information about the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefbfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.nefbfoundation.org</a>.

Collegiate Farm Bureau Leaders Receive Ron Hanson Scholarship

New articulation agreements between Mid-Plains Community College and Clarkson College will provide a clear pathway for students either pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing or planning to become a physical therapist assistant. The partnership will begin in the fall of 2024.

“This partnership has a special meaning for me because I started my nursing education at MPCC and finished my terminal degree at Clarkson College,” said MPCC Director of Nursing Dr. Kathy Harrison. “I know the quality education that students obtain from both institutions. I am excited that our nursing students are going to have this additional option for pursuing a bachelor’s degree, and I think that the Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree program will help fill a need for PTAs in our area.”&nbsp;

Under the RN to BSN agreement, students who complete the approved Associate Degree Nursing program at MPCC will be guaranteed general admission into the corresponding Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing program at Clarkson College.

By transferring 70 credit hours from Mid-Plains, nursing students may be able to complete the bachelor’s degree in as few as three semesters. They must have an active and unencumbered license prior to acceptance at Clarkson College.

Similarly, students who have an associate degree or higher or who have earned at least 35 credit hours, including 15 hours of prerequisite courses, from MPCC will be automatically admitted into the Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree program at Clarkson College.

They will complete three semesters of coursework via distance learning accompanied by four on-campus skills weekends, Fridays and Saturdays, per semester. That will be followed by a final semester of clinical experiences for a total of 16 months.

“It is imperative that educators work together to decrease the cost of health care professional education by removing barriers to assist students directly into their next level of education,” stated Dr. Andreia Nebel, Clarkson College President. “This agreement puts us one step closer to helping solve the health care workforce shortage facing our communities. We are proud to partner with Mid-Plains Community College and look forward to working together to help students achieve their goals for many years to come.”

Per the agreement, MPCC students will also have the opportunity to receive up to $8,000 worth of scholarships to attend Clarkson full-time.

More information about the Associate Degree Nursing program at Mid-Plains is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mpcc.edu/academics/programs/associate-degree-nursing.php" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/academics/programs/associate-degree-nursing.php</a>.

Information about the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Clarkson can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clarksoncollege.edu/physical-therapist-assistant/" target="_blank">clarksoncollege.edu/physical-therapist-assistant/</a>.

Heather JohnsonMPCCNew articulation agreements between Mid-Plains Community College and Clarkson College will provide a clear pathway for students either pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing or planning to become a physical therapist assistant. The partnership will begin in the fall of 2024.“This partnership has a special meaning for me because I started my nursing education at MPCC and finished my terminal degree at Clarkson College,” said MPCC Director of Nursing Dr. Kathy Harrison. “I know the quality education that students obtain from both institutions. I am excited that our nursing students are going to have this additional option for pursuing a bachelor’s degree, and I think that the Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree program will help fill a need for PTAs in our area.”&nbsp;Under the RN to BSN agreement, students who complete the approved Associate Degree Nursing program at MPCC will be guaranteed general admission into the corresponding Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing program at Clarkson College.By transferring 70 credit hours from Mid-Plains, nursing students may be able to complete the bachelor’s degree in as few as three semesters. They must have an active and unencumbered license prior to acceptance at Clarkson College.Similarly, students who have an associate degree or higher or who have earned at least 35 credit hours, including 15 hours of prerequisite courses, from MPCC will be automatically admitted into the Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree program at Clarkson College.They will complete three semesters of coursework via distance learning accompanied by four on-campus skills weekends, Fridays and Saturdays, per semester. That will be followed by a final semester of clinical experiences for a total of 16 months.“It is imperative that educators work together to decrease the cost of health care professional education by removing barriers to assist students directly into their next level of education,” stated Dr. Andreia Nebel, Clarkson College President. “This agreement puts us one step closer to helping solve the health care workforce shortage facing our communities. We are proud to partner with Mid-Plains Community College and look forward to working together to help students achieve their goals for many years to come.”Per the agreement, MPCC students will also have the opportunity to receive up to $8,000 worth of scholarships to attend Clarkson full-time.More information about the Associate Degree Nursing program at Mid-Plains is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mpcc.edu/academics/programs/associate-degree-nursing.php" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/academics/programs/associate-degree-nursing.php</a>.Information about the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Clarkson can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clarksoncollege.edu/physical-therapist-assistant/" target="_blank">clarksoncollege.edu/physical-therapist-assistant/</a>.

 MPCC/Clarkson College sign nursing, physical therapist assistant agreements

APRIL 2, 2024&nbsp;— This It is springtime. In the Midwest, that means increase chances of severe weather.

Extreme weather has increased in frequency and intensity. The Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters now compared to a decade ago. Spring weather can lead to severe&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FPLitkQZfFgrhuGymdh4dGym1Fs4G-2FvFuSS5vZ8IwOqZ2rhoAWLGGcjqvqf6VruS6A-3D-3D7lg-_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCOEzmRJAKar8zZCu0wOdmb6VSlAGWKJPCuqGjYt3KRVicCnhwwn-2FGtFkcMcoVxcZtWQYCHHb2pC6ZTCJvc3lh8-2BahaY520KR2QxEfsC2cToEXwiCdYd3Kx3wjc6X7BHix0vrK1tB4qE3Z6Agdd4T7YQ-3D" target="_blank">thunderstorms</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FPLitkQZfFgrhuGymdh4dGysEnobz9j6ARQAwGmuqgKlvfJVPMYZhMGSVCeXK1vC-2FQ-3D-3DhNr9_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCOR2-2BpoqoqryKEk3-2B9UgjjFDMkN82CdPVo54UDKBjeoMJ4TgAuCZXZNIRR0nVH-2BYLa6Ovop1N-2F0bGIXhZaWBRC4dzb9p2J8N6sQuXhfy4M3ECkoWhlejbtKUlbm0cbf0c9GRjtvrAKg7xyKi3xiYIBU-3D" target="_blank">tornadoes</a>, damaging winds and&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FPLitkQZfFgrhuGymdh4dGyaa-2Ffk-2FrLh9LGl-2FGt4KTvHKgcI3BWm-2Bc3BYwv-2Byy541w-3D-3Dk7Ri_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCNgkNEvF3RdOLBCnnZp0WoZneZHFH4yvGflQO-2Fp7WM-2BL-2F0WKnGgxzGnaZ3LXo6rqjWfpZOCfbDvgkCz-2BYVLpAa0oKbkF-2BhxAV82T2bSo5Gv4JkA1CfdR0OB4I-2FH6s5FsCv3JljwXEvYh4aXxqhDrja4-3D" target="_blank">flooding</a>. Planning is key to being ready for an emergency.

Being prepared is easy ─ just three short steps away:

1.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FL-2FSoxnWzD2xae6zNCtlhXNTp2KuOwVixybsTM6f7F59e4k-2FR7cqajnVgn8AGs8Zmg-3D-3DUgd7_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCNJup-2Fm0Wo2S7ICQrMPbnFoSriym1tJsNB-2FsR2hC7Rj-2F9-2BZVByQz7kFx04rB6TSgZopaANsbFeyTDxuo5w4gSL0V0G95EvQ18-2BBmwlUtWP5439W4V28d-2BtJUBf8o9IYs4IkIrBUXFy58ePmZU2ews0c-3D" target="_blank">Get a kit.</a>&nbsp;Get your emergency preparedness kit ready. You should include:

2.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FKGp4D7yUbn8P-2BVrL90LTmPkLYEvPcwkIuhLrKwGOEOMQdhw_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCDvKrHfWnQkH22jrg6K2ifNXiQxoYntZ-2FKU0ueOa35yHd9M4oHJXNpE1a1bH15Y2TSGmNlgiJEIe1klkg4Fqg82gQwxItJv9RZdk3CnEyRfRysB5QSViDH8ZN4jiVJ6pF7vhNV6IZKswFIPMy-2B9G22k-3D" target="_blank">Make a plan</a>.&nbsp;Talk with household members about what you would do during emergencies. Plan what to do in case you are separated — choose two places to meet — one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

3.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FLYRdWpRRtgS-2BI6DD5KXgHlq72QYepBkicnYZVUGFNzwoTWY_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCH10hzK8tYrcQZDYc7-2B6VWC2KU68SGI4ZW6GXZL7FMAPeqw06Wtadkj9Dhw4ajhTkY-2BweJseGoeIv87OyHDqdj-2Bvvn0Z3cj7kvwx8azApJQ0Y9NLFLKG2t8X6uWbqdFqCqLOXeLrpBHtzXUYVtJr4QQ-3D" target="_blank">Be informed.</a>&nbsp;Know the risks where you live, work, learn and play.

DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS&nbsp;Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUw2unPH0BgTRXhzM0BAoutj4OcaHS3nfRnW3eR9DrPs8g-3D-3Dc3jh_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCPmTiOVv-2FT-2B1qrmvPp5mtt4eaucymHypvOfaNRwN1K3fgkesOFWW5fRTOzK25t9AGwjR-2FUoejf7ItZhv9VQmWuR0g-2FGz2Vi1A9KrR18DIl1NmQ7IAdCuuSZQrc4ejsqNNmQOgJM5rm2AwsPeFn9w-2BTk-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/apps.</a>

About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3DUdeU_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCB3aoHmuLT5Bsv-2BI1-2B-2BgjPCVhu1UsfQMPRB6xsCKeL3MWTQJLiJIERDXj6sE0Z-2BMHJxemjeSz1RHYASZNOInJsgSZhrrbC87-2B-2FnEKKIN5PmxYOa24HZEb4r7BIXdMNchKaFYvav7I6TMT-2F07Is5mbrg-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdUZQJeB8xy1xrvGHkLBeWxCtE-2Fkovzq6moaPT7XK4Qc-2FHrf3_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCIVtr7Ekmn0Eef8BvEf7epwqV6cnHpKXJMX0u6HTQadRG2UIBrgzw4RZltlg0VvMhpJLP-2FjrqIGPik0uNzGRA0SOP0-2FEdrIiqzX-2BzZO6cg-2FFAGqvaPm9IrUoUAKQreEAd0k7w98arPSGRJAD7fVWWFg-3D" target="_blank">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

American Red CrossAPRIL 2, 2024&nbsp;— This It is springtime. In the Midwest, that means increase chances of severe weather.Extreme weather has increased in frequency and intensity. The Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters now compared to a decade ago. Spring weather can lead to severe&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FPLitkQZfFgrhuGymdh4dGym1Fs4G-2FvFuSS5vZ8IwOqZ2rhoAWLGGcjqvqf6VruS6A-3D-3D7lg-_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCOEzmRJAKar8zZCu0wOdmb6VSlAGWKJPCuqGjYt3KRVicCnhwwn-2FGtFkcMcoVxcZtWQYCHHb2pC6ZTCJvc3lh8-2BahaY520KR2QxEfsC2cToEXwiCdYd3Kx3wjc6X7BHix0vrK1tB4qE3Z6Agdd4T7YQ-3D" target="_blank">thunderstorms</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FPLitkQZfFgrhuGymdh4dGysEnobz9j6ARQAwGmuqgKlvfJVPMYZhMGSVCeXK1vC-2FQ-3D-3DhNr9_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCOR2-2BpoqoqryKEk3-2B9UgjjFDMkN82CdPVo54UDKBjeoMJ4TgAuCZXZNIRR0nVH-2BYLa6Ovop1N-2F0bGIXhZaWBRC4dzb9p2J8N6sQuXhfy4M3ECkoWhlejbtKUlbm0cbf0c9GRjtvrAKg7xyKi3xiYIBU-3D" target="_blank">tornadoes</a>, damaging winds and&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FPLitkQZfFgrhuGymdh4dGyaa-2Ffk-2FrLh9LGl-2FGt4KTvHKgcI3BWm-2Bc3BYwv-2Byy541w-3D-3Dk7Ri_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCNgkNEvF3RdOLBCnnZp0WoZneZHFH4yvGflQO-2Fp7WM-2BL-2F0WKnGgxzGnaZ3LXo6rqjWfpZOCfbDvgkCz-2BYVLpAa0oKbkF-2BhxAV82T2bSo5Gv4JkA1CfdR0OB4I-2FH6s5FsCv3JljwXEvYh4aXxqhDrja4-3D" target="_blank">flooding</a>. Planning is key to being ready for an emergency.Being prepared is easy ─ just three short steps away:1.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FL-2FSoxnWzD2xae6zNCtlhXNTp2KuOwVixybsTM6f7F59e4k-2FR7cqajnVgn8AGs8Zmg-3D-3DUgd7_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCNJup-2Fm0Wo2S7ICQrMPbnFoSriym1tJsNB-2FsR2hC7Rj-2F9-2BZVByQz7kFx04rB6TSgZopaANsbFeyTDxuo5w4gSL0V0G95EvQ18-2BBmwlUtWP5439W4V28d-2BtJUBf8o9IYs4IkIrBUXFy58ePmZU2ews0c-3D" target="_blank">Get a kit.</a>&nbsp;Get your emergency preparedness kit ready. You should include:<ul>
 <li>Three-day supply of non-perishable food and water — one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes</li><li>Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)</li><li>Flashlight and extra batteries</li><li>First aid kit, medications and medical items</li><li>Copies of all important documents (proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)</li><li>Extra cash</li>
 </ul>2.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FKGp4D7yUbn8P-2BVrL90LTmPkLYEvPcwkIuhLrKwGOEOMQdhw_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCDvKrHfWnQkH22jrg6K2ifNXiQxoYntZ-2FKU0ueOa35yHd9M4oHJXNpE1a1bH15Y2TSGmNlgiJEIe1klkg4Fqg82gQwxItJv9RZdk3CnEyRfRysB5QSViDH8ZN4jiVJ6pF7vhNV6IZKswFIPMy-2B9G22k-3D" target="_blank">Make a plan</a>.&nbsp;Talk with household members about what you would do during emergencies. Plan what to do in case you are separated — choose two places to meet — one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.<ul>
 <li>Choose a contact person from out of the area and make sure all household members have this person’s phone number and email address. It may be easier to call long distance or text if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service.</li><li>Tell everyone in the household where emergency information and supplies are kept.</li><li>Practice evacuating your home. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are impassable.</li><li>Don’t forget your pets. If you must evacuate, make arrangements for your animals. Keep a phone list of “pet friendly” motels/hotels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes.</li>
 </ul>3.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdig4u53DF-2FrBc-2FcLAlaa-2BKOEJAekK5cVYojRE4YkXQ16-2FLYRdWpRRtgS-2BI6DD5KXgHlq72QYepBkicnYZVUGFNzwoTWY_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCH10hzK8tYrcQZDYc7-2B6VWC2KU68SGI4ZW6GXZL7FMAPeqw06Wtadkj9Dhw4ajhTkY-2BweJseGoeIv87OyHDqdj-2Bvvn0Z3cj7kvwx8azApJQ0Y9NLFLKG2t8X6uWbqdFqCqLOXeLrpBHtzXUYVtJr4QQ-3D" target="_blank">Be informed.</a>&nbsp;Know the risks where you live, work, learn and play.<ul>
 <li>Arm yourself with information about what to do in case an emergency occurs. Remember that emergencies like fires and blackouts can happen anywhere, so everyone should be prepared for them.</li><li>Find out how you would receive information from local officials in the event of an emergency.</li><li>Learn first aid and CPR/AED so that you have the skills to respond in an emergency before help arrives, especially during a disaster when emergency responders may not be as available. A variety of online, in-classroom and blended (part online and part in the classroom) training courses are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUx5H0UHE0CbYNbh-2FCnwgI2Lsh2I_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCLW0HcInCdnLql-2BmgvgyDthW6TvXPGWV-2BWjsSJ41kPkyY8yVa28-2F48HTgOtUhspGGxbVJMX6hGYzxssQ4KTLeQxqahFub31OTK2BJSo9tuwAFb3VeoUFdJhHYtftFbfDi5fYIVEiJNkQA6JR-2FRXF-2FL4-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/takeaclass</a>.</li>
 </ul>DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS&nbsp;Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUw2unPH0BgTRXhzM0BAoutj4OcaHS3nfRnW3eR9DrPs8g-3D-3Dc3jh_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCPmTiOVv-2FT-2B1qrmvPp5mtt4eaucymHypvOfaNRwN1K3fgkesOFWW5fRTOzK25t9AGwjR-2FUoejf7ItZhv9VQmWuR0g-2FGz2Vi1A9KrR18DIl1NmQ7IAdCuuSZQrc4ejsqNNmQOgJM5rm2AwsPeFn9w-2BTk-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/apps.</a>About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3DUdeU_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCB3aoHmuLT5Bsv-2BI1-2B-2BgjPCVhu1UsfQMPRB6xsCKeL3MWTQJLiJIERDXj6sE0Z-2BMHJxemjeSz1RHYASZNOInJsgSZhrrbC87-2B-2FnEKKIN5PmxYOa24HZEb4r7BIXdMNchKaFYvav7I6TMT-2F07Is5mbrg-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdUZQJeB8xy1xrvGHkLBeWxCtE-2Fkovzq6moaPT7XK4Qc-2FHrf3_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5I-2BNAg4k-2FF-2BM5-2Bxw9cXJITo0NsLlAXMGWG2OcfA-2B4TqfIKnIS-2F40aZ-2B1jaiDDCXH5iOM9iXZgxuEZZiCu2RZqCIVtr7Ekmn0Eef8BvEf7epwqV6cnHpKXJMX0u6HTQadRG2UIBrgzw4RZltlg0VvMhpJLP-2FjrqIGPik0uNzGRA0SOP0-2FEdrIiqzX-2BzZO6cg-2FFAGqvaPm9IrUoUAKQreEAd0k7w98arPSGRJAD7fVWWFg-3D" target="_blank">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

Red Cross: Prepare for Spring Storms

Major freight railroads will have to maintain two-person crews on most routes under a new federal rule that was finalized Tuesday in a milestone in organized labor’s long fight to preserve the practice.

The Transportation Department's Federal Railroad Administration released the details of the rule Tuesday morning after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/588d6f7829c4836b9d2feff5c21a5097">working on</a>&nbsp;it for two years. Out of more than 13,000 comments on the rule, about 60 opposed it.

There has been intense focus on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;since a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-pete-buttigieg-evacuations-ohio-explosions-64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">fiery February 2023 derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio, but few significant changes have been made apart from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailment-east-palestine-norfolk-southern-bef9b47b5200f033d2f045c850745e94">steps the railroads</a>&nbsp;pledged to take themselves and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/labor-unions-kansas-city-southern-strikes-business-6e66b66a99415e12c2c1fa642d6a842f">agreements</a>&nbsp;they made to provide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-paid-sick-time-negotiations-norfolk-southern-70327831f881dcf86a43e05d22a5bdd5">paid sick time</a>&nbsp;to nearly all workers. Such changes include adding hundreds more trackside detectors and tweaking how to respond to alerts from them. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/derailment-ohio-safety-senate-legislation-brown-vance-82c55dc95aca9524d6ae8e6d01336dbe">railroad safety bill</a>&nbsp;proposed in response to the derailment has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/east-palestine-train-derailment-safety-regulations-railroad-4db52c68daf68da05425b5b70363fb0a">stalled in Congress</a>.

Rail unions have long opposed one-person crews because of safety and job concerns. Labor agreements requiring two-person crews have been in place for roughly 30 years at major railroads, although many short-line railroads already operate with one-person crews without problems. The unions say that conductors are crucial in helping operate the train and keeping engineers alert, and that they serve as a first responder.

“As trains — many carrying hazardous material — have grown longer, crews should not be getting smaller,” said Eddie Hall, the president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union. He praised the FRA for taking the step President Joe Biden promised. Hall said keeping two people in the cab of a locomotive is crucial now that railroads rely on longer trains that routinely stretch for miles.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said that America shouldn't accept the current average of nearly three derailments a day, and that regulators will keep fighting to improve that record over the objections of railroad lobbyists.

“When good safety rules have been put in place over the years, especially after high-profile incidents, we see derailments come down on mainline tracks. But as attention faded on those incidents, the railroad industry lobby was consistently able to weaken or delay important safety provisions,” Buttigieg said at a news conference.

Railroads have a history of resisting new regulations as they sought the discretion to operate trains with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d6ca21953111e4d7b457bac02e5b6813">only one person</a>&nbsp;and move conductors to ground-based jobs in places with automatic braking systems. Conductors in a truck would respond to train problems and derailments in a certain territory. It has been a key issue in contract talks for years, though the railroads abandoned the proposal just as the 2022 negotiations&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">approached a strike.</a>

The railroads argue that the size of train crews should be determined by contract talks, not regulators or lawmakers, because they maintain there isn't enough data to show that two-person crews are safer. The norm on major railroads is two-person crews, so current safety statistics reflect that reality. The industry pointed out that the FRA abandoned a similar rule during the administration of former President Donald Trump, with the agency saying in 2019 that there wasn't enough evidence to support it.

“FRA is doubling down on an unfounded and unnecessary regulation that has no proven connection to rail safety,” said Ian Jefferies, president and CEO of the Association of American Railroads trade group.

The East Palestine, Ohio, derailment put a national spotlight on rail safety because of the consequences of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">hazardous chemicals</a>&nbsp;that spilled and caught fire, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate and causing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-contamination-fears-brockovich-fc68b402096a4f5f8598a657f7e399f8">lingering health concerns.</a>

Investigators haven't suggested the crew on that train did anything wrong. It actually included three people because there was a trainee aboard. The National Transportation Safety Board has said the derailment was likely caused by an overheating wheel bearing that wasn't caught in time by sensors.

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat, said it’s still important to pass a rail safety bill he cosponsored along with several Republicans because it would ensure future administrations couldn’t drop the crew-size rule and would make other meaningful improvements, including standards for trackside detectors and railcar inspections. Brown said he wants to ensure “no community ever has to suffer like East Palestine did.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a1244f2e17ba4a61b4a128ca92df0f15">worst railroad disaster</a>&nbsp;in recent history involved a one-man crew. In 2013, the brakes failed on a train parked in the hills above the Canadian town of Lac-Megantic. The train rolled downhill and derailed, killing 47 people and causing millions of dollars in damage.

Another&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/707da58c97b742369022db304099d78c">fiery derailment</a>&nbsp;outside Casselton, North Dakota, in 2013 demonstrated some of the benefit of having a conductor aboard the train. The conductor helped separate undamaged tank cars filled with crude oil from the rest of the train so they could be pulled away from the fire.

At least 11 states have already approved rules requiring two-person crews.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroads-freight-safety-derailment-state-laws-42fa5ddae7486e44c7383def082d31a3">States frustrated</a>&nbsp;with the federal government’s reluctance to pass new regulations on railroads have also tried to pass restrictions on train length and blocked crossings.

The industry&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-safety-ohio-crew-size-derailment-lawsuit-429df55468cc112d7057d4dd1dcf5322">often challenges</a>&nbsp;the state rules in court, though with this new federal rule it’s not clear whether the railroads will resort to that tactic. The railroads generally argue in their state lawsuits that the federal government should be the only one to regulate the industry to ensure a uniform set of rules, and they wouldn’t be able to make that argument in a challenge to the federal rule.

Josh FunkAssociated PressMajor freight railroads will have to maintain two-person crews on most routes under a new federal rule that was finalized Tuesday in a milestone in organized labor’s long fight to preserve the practice.The Transportation Department's Federal Railroad Administration released the details of the rule Tuesday morning after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/588d6f7829c4836b9d2feff5c21a5097">working on</a>&nbsp;it for two years. Out of more than 13,000 comments on the rule, about 60 opposed it.There has been intense focus on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;since a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-pete-buttigieg-evacuations-ohio-explosions-64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">fiery February 2023 derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio, but few significant changes have been made apart from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailment-east-palestine-norfolk-southern-bef9b47b5200f033d2f045c850745e94">steps the railroads</a>&nbsp;pledged to take themselves and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/labor-unions-kansas-city-southern-strikes-business-6e66b66a99415e12c2c1fa642d6a842f">agreements</a>&nbsp;they made to provide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-paid-sick-time-negotiations-norfolk-southern-70327831f881dcf86a43e05d22a5bdd5">paid sick time</a>&nbsp;to nearly all workers. Such changes include adding hundreds more trackside detectors and tweaking how to respond to alerts from them. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/derailment-ohio-safety-senate-legislation-brown-vance-82c55dc95aca9524d6ae8e6d01336dbe">railroad safety bill</a>&nbsp;proposed in response to the derailment has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/east-palestine-train-derailment-safety-regulations-railroad-4db52c68daf68da05425b5b70363fb0a">stalled in Congress</a>.Rail unions have long opposed one-person crews because of safety and job concerns. Labor agreements requiring two-person crews have been in place for roughly 30 years at major railroads, although many short-line railroads already operate with one-person crews without problems. The unions say that conductors are crucial in helping operate the train and keeping engineers alert, and that they serve as a first responder.“As trains — many carrying hazardous material — have grown longer, crews should not be getting smaller,” said Eddie Hall, the president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union. He praised the FRA for taking the step President Joe Biden promised. Hall said keeping two people in the cab of a locomotive is crucial now that railroads rely on longer trains that routinely stretch for miles.Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said that America shouldn't accept the current average of nearly three derailments a day, and that regulators will keep fighting to improve that record over the objections of railroad lobbyists.“When good safety rules have been put in place over the years, especially after high-profile incidents, we see derailments come down on mainline tracks. But as attention faded on those incidents, the railroad industry lobby was consistently able to weaken or delay important safety provisions,” Buttigieg said at a news conference.Railroads have a history of resisting new regulations as they sought the discretion to operate trains with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d6ca21953111e4d7b457bac02e5b6813">only one person</a>&nbsp;and move conductors to ground-based jobs in places with automatic braking systems. Conductors in a truck would respond to train problems and derailments in a certain territory. It has been a key issue in contract talks for years, though the railroads abandoned the proposal just as the 2022 negotiations&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">approached a strike.</a>The railroads argue that the size of train crews should be determined by contract talks, not regulators or lawmakers, because they maintain there isn't enough data to show that two-person crews are safer. The norm on major railroads is two-person crews, so current safety statistics reflect that reality. The industry pointed out that the FRA abandoned a similar rule during the administration of former President Donald Trump, with the agency saying in 2019 that there wasn't enough evidence to support it.“FRA is doubling down on an unfounded and unnecessary regulation that has no proven connection to rail safety,” said Ian Jefferies, president and CEO of the Association of American Railroads trade group.The East Palestine, Ohio, derailment put a national spotlight on rail safety because of the consequences of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">hazardous chemicals</a>&nbsp;that spilled and caught fire, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate and causing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-contamination-fears-brockovich-fc68b402096a4f5f8598a657f7e399f8">lingering health concerns.</a>Investigators haven't suggested the crew on that train did anything wrong. It actually included three people because there was a trainee aboard. The National Transportation Safety Board has said the derailment was likely caused by an overheating wheel bearing that wasn't caught in time by sensors.U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat, said it’s still important to pass a rail safety bill he cosponsored along with several Republicans because it would ensure future administrations couldn’t drop the crew-size rule and would make other meaningful improvements, including standards for trackside detectors and railcar inspections. Brown said he wants to ensure “no community ever has to suffer like East Palestine did.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a1244f2e17ba4a61b4a128ca92df0f15">worst railroad disaster</a>&nbsp;in recent history involved a one-man crew. In 2013, the brakes failed on a train parked in the hills above the Canadian town of Lac-Megantic. The train rolled downhill and derailed, killing 47 people and causing millions of dollars in damage.Another&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/707da58c97b742369022db304099d78c">fiery derailment</a>&nbsp;outside Casselton, North Dakota, in 2013 demonstrated some of the benefit of having a conductor aboard the train. The conductor helped separate undamaged tank cars filled with crude oil from the rest of the train so they could be pulled away from the fire.At least 11 states have already approved rules requiring two-person crews.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroads-freight-safety-derailment-state-laws-42fa5ddae7486e44c7383def082d31a3">States frustrated</a>&nbsp;with the federal government’s reluctance to pass new regulations on railroads have also tried to pass restrictions on train length and blocked crossings.The industry&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-safety-ohio-crew-size-derailment-lawsuit-429df55468cc112d7057d4dd1dcf5322">often challenges</a>&nbsp;the state rules in court, though with this new federal rule it’s not clear whether the railroads will resort to that tactic. The railroads generally argue in their state lawsuits that the federal government should be the only one to regulate the industry to ensure a uniform set of rules, and they wouldn’t be able to make that argument in a challenge to the federal rule.

Freight railroads must keep 2-person crews, according to new federal rule 2 years in the making

BNSF confirmed to Panhandle Post on Tuesday that there was a train derailment Tuesday morning near Sidney, NE.

BNSF Spokeswoman Kendall Sloan says that at approximately 3:24 a.m, two rail cars derailed between Dalton and Huntsman. BNSF reports that there were no injuries to the crews, and as of Tuesday afternoon crews were still working to clear the incident.

BNSF says the cause is under investigation.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostBNSF confirmed to Panhandle Post on Tuesday that there was a train derailment Tuesday morning near Sidney, NE.BNSF Spokeswoman Kendall Sloan says that at approximately 3:24 a.m, two rail cars derailed between Dalton and Huntsman. BNSF reports that there were no injuries to the crews, and as of Tuesday afternoon crews were still working to clear the incident.BNSF says the cause is under investigation.

BNSF confirms train derailment near Sidney

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) joins Tobacco-Free Nebraska to encourage kids to Take Down Tobacco on April 1, 2024. This event, sponsored by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, empowers people to stand up and speak out against the tobacco industry. The Take Down Tobacco program is a 365 day a year effort that culminates every spring with the Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action. On this day, youth advocates and their communities come together to stand up to Big Tobacco, expose the tricks this industry uses to lure kids into addiction, and call for change.

Flavored vapes have fueled the youth e-cigarette epidemic, which is reversing decades of progress to reduce tobacco use in the US. The tobacco industry has a long history of targeting youth with flavored products like flavored e-cigarettes, menthol flavored tobacco and flavored cigars.&nbsp; We are on the cusp of ending the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars, which is a huge step in addressing health inequity and stopping the tobacco industry’s targeting of kids and Black Americans. We must continue the fight because Big Tobacco will not back down.

“Our health district has a high cancer rate as well as the highest rate of smokeless tobacco users in the state,” explains Diana Garcia, Program Manager at SWNPHD. “Tobacco is still the number one cause of preventable cancer in the US. Avoiding tobacco will lower the cancer rates and protect our youth from the dangers of tobacco.”

On April 1, 2024, the Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action, SWNPHD encourages youth activists, educators, parents, health advocates and concerned citizens to come together and share their commitment to:

SWNPHD and Tobacco Free Nebraska are working to help people quit tobacco, eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke, and protect youth by keeping them from using tobacco. Learn more and get involved at https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Tobacco-Free-Nebraska.aspx. For help quitting, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline is available at Quitnow.ne.gov, 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), and in Spanish at 1-855-DÉJELO-YA (1-855-335-3569). Youth cessation services offered by Tobacco Free Nebraska can be accessed by testing “START MY QUIT” to 36072 or by visiting ne.mylifemyquit.com.

Southwest Nebraska Public Health DepartmentSouthwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) joins Tobacco-Free Nebraska to encourage kids to Take Down Tobacco on April 1, 2024. This event, sponsored by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, empowers people to stand up and speak out against the tobacco industry. The Take Down Tobacco program is a 365 day a year effort that culminates every spring with the Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action. On this day, youth advocates and their communities come together to stand up to Big Tobacco, expose the tricks this industry uses to lure kids into addiction, and call for change.Flavored vapes have fueled the youth e-cigarette epidemic, which is reversing decades of progress to reduce tobacco use in the US. The tobacco industry has a long history of targeting youth with flavored products like flavored e-cigarettes, menthol flavored tobacco and flavored cigars.&nbsp; We are on the cusp of ending the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars, which is a huge step in addressing health inequity and stopping the tobacco industry’s targeting of kids and Black Americans. We must continue the fight because Big Tobacco will not back down.“Our health district has a high cancer rate as well as the highest rate of smokeless tobacco users in the state,” explains Diana Garcia, Program Manager at SWNPHD. “Tobacco is still the number one cause of preventable cancer in the US. Avoiding tobacco will lower the cancer rates and protect our youth from the dangers of tobacco.”On April 1, 2024, the Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action, SWNPHD encourages youth activists, educators, parents, health advocates and concerned citizens to come together and share their commitment to:<ul>
 <li>Raise awareness of the problem of tobacco use in their community.</li><li>Encourage youth to reject the tobacco industry’s deceptive marketing and stay tobacco-free.</li><li>Urge elected officials to take action to protect kids from tobacco.</li>
 </ul>SWNPHD and Tobacco Free Nebraska are working to help people quit tobacco, eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke, and protect youth by keeping them from using tobacco. Learn more and get involved at https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Tobacco-Free-Nebraska.aspx. For help quitting, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline is available at Quitnow.ne.gov, 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), and in Spanish at 1-855-DÉJELO-YA (1-855-335-3569). Youth cessation services offered by Tobacco Free Nebraska can be accessed by testing “START MY QUIT” to 36072 or by visiting ne.mylifemyquit.com.Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties.&nbsp; You can follow us on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram or view the website at www.swhealth.ne.gov which contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, promote and protect health. Call (308) 345-4223; one number three locations, McCook, Imperial, and Ogallala.

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