Listen to Eagle Media "Reindeer Radio" all holiday season!

Kyle Lewis Mull, 23, North Platte and Jordan Anne Leal, 22, North Platte

Caleb Leroy Smith, 32, North Platte and April Nicole Rossetti, 32, North Platte

Kyle Lewis Mull, 23, North Platte and Jordan Anne Leal, 22, North PlatteCaleb Leroy Smith, 32, North Platte and April Nicole Rossetti, 32, North Platte

Marriage Licenses For Lincoln County (Week of December 2nd)

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHdGjLPMx3O-wSu3T3aMWlg">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHdGjLPMx3O-wSu3T3aMWlg</a>

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to enter closed session at any time as necessary to discuss the agenda item currently before the board.

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to take agenda items out of order for the convenience of the involved parties.

Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on December 9, 2024, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:00 A.M.

Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on December 9, 2024, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:15 A.M.

Recess as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization.

Adjourn or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.

6.	9:30 A.M.	Discuss and consider approval of the 2025-2030 Lincoln County Comprehensive Youth Service Plan

	Discuss and consider approval of the Lincoln County Community-Based Juvenile Services Aid 2025/2026 grant

7.	9:45 A.M.	Discuss and consider acceptance of bid for 4 (four) pickup trucks for the&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Lincon County Sheriff’s Office

8.	9:55 A.M.	Discuss and consider ARPA funds granted to local non-profits that have a remaining balance

	Discuss and consider authorizing the County Attorney’s office to send a certified letter

	to the Episcopal Church with respect to unspent ARPA funds

	Discuss and consider remaining Lincoln County ARPA fund account balance

9.	10:00 A.M.	Discuss and consider Resolution No. 2024-19 to establish and declare the intent of Lincoln County with respect to the future public works infrastructure usage of property located 18610 US Highway 30, Hershey, NE

Closed session to discuss strategy with respect to pending or imminent litigation, real estate purchase, deployment of security personnel and devices or evaluation of job performance as to prevent needless injury to reputation (if necessary)

Hear concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, or their representative.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHdGjLPMx3O-wSu3T3aMWlg">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHdGjLPMx3O-wSu3T3aMWlg</a>The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to enter closed session at any time as necessary to discuss the agenda item currently before the board.The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to take agenda items out of order for the convenience of the involved parties.Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on December 9, 2024, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:00 A.M.Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on December 9, 2024, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:15 A.M.<ol>
 <li>Open with prayer</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Swearing In of Lincoln County Sheriff Deputies: Dwayne Wilson, Wesley Throckmorton and Nathaniel Hutton&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Approve minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting		&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>held on December 2, 2024<ol>
 <li>Consider the following:</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Claims &amp; Treasurer’s Receipts</li><li>Reappointment of Todd Herndon as a management representative to the Lincoln County Safety Committee for a three year term to end June 2027</li><li>Reappointment of Penny Ball and Tammy White as employee representatives to the Lincon County Safety Committee for a two year term to end June 2026</li><li>Authorize the Chairman to sign Form 35K – Annual County Lottery report</li><li>Receive and order filed the fee report submitted by County Clerk</li>
 </ul>Recess as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization.<ol>
 <li>9:15 A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Approve minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Equalization meeting</li>
 </ul>held on December 2, 2024<ul>
 <li>Certificates of correction and refund as submitted by the County Assessor</li>
 </ul>Adjourn or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.6.	9:30 A.M.	Discuss and consider approval of the 2025-2030 Lincoln County Comprehensive Youth Service Plan	Discuss and consider approval of the Lincoln County Community-Based Juvenile Services Aid 2025/2026 grant7.	9:45 A.M.	Discuss and consider acceptance of bid for 4 (four) pickup trucks for the&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Lincon County Sheriff’s Office8.	9:55 A.M.	Discuss and consider ARPA funds granted to local non-profits that have a remaining balance	Discuss and consider authorizing the County Attorney’s office to send a certified letter	to the Episcopal Church with respect to unspent ARPA funds	Discuss and consider remaining Lincoln County ARPA fund account balance9.	10:00 A.M.	Discuss and consider Resolution No. 2024-19 to establish and declare the intent of Lincoln County with respect to the future public works infrastructure usage of property located 18610 US Highway 30, Hershey, NEClosed session to discuss strategy with respect to pending or imminent litigation, real estate purchase, deployment of security personnel and devices or evaluation of job performance as to prevent needless injury to reputation (if necessary)Hear concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, or their representative.

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners 12-09 Agenda

The holiday season is underway, and the Mid-Plains United Way reminds listeners that the giving tree is at FNBO at the downtown location. The tree started off with around 45 gift ideas but around 15 remain. Also, the united way will be at this year's Ladies Night Out on December 19th.&nbsp;

Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Haven Smith from the Mid-Plains United Way about everything that is going on. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;The holiday season is underway, and the Mid-Plains United Way reminds listeners that the giving tree is at FNBO at the downtown location. The tree started off with around 45 gift ideas but around 15 remain. Also, the united way will be at this year's Ladies Night Out on December 19th.&nbsp;Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Haven Smith from the Mid-Plains United Way about everything that is going on. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Mid-Plains United Way: Giving Tree, year end giving campaign, and more" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=tggmn-175f91d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

(Audio) Mid-Plains United Way: Giving Tree, year end giving campaign, and more

(North Platte, Nebraska, December 5, 2024) – Each year the Nebraska Tourism Commission hosts the&nbsp; Nebraska Tourism Conference to help professionals in the tourism industry learn how to get the most&nbsp; out of their business while gaining the latest industry knowledge, hearing fresh marketing ideas, finding greater financial opportunities, and networking with potential partners. The 2025 Nebraska Tourism Conference is scheduled for February 11th-13th at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp;

Visit North Platte believes strongly in the tourism industry in North Platte and the surrounding&nbsp; communities. As part of our commitment to helping local tourism grow, we are offering three scholarships in the amount of $500 each to help defray the cost for area entrepreneurs interested in attending this conference.&nbsp;

Reimbursable expenses include Conference Registration, lodging (not to exceed two nights), meals not&nbsp; included in the conference registration, and mileage to and from the conference. The scholarship is a&nbsp; stipend and is not intended to cover all costs associated with attending the conference.&nbsp;

Any interested persons must submit an application and a typed essay responding to the following:&nbsp;

2. The number of years you have previously attended the Nebraska Tourism Conference. 3. Statement explaining your existing or future tourism organization/business. 4. Statement explaining how attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference will benefit you and/or&nbsp; your organization/business.&nbsp;

In addition, applicants must agree to submit a written summary to Visit North Platte detailing what they&nbsp; learned after attending the conference and how their tourism business/organization will benefit. Completed applications must be postmarked back to the Visit North Platte office by January 15th.&nbsp;

For all information and application, go to https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/industry/scholarships/. If&nbsp; you have questions, please call 308-532-4729 or email hjones@VisitNorthPlatte.com.&nbsp;

Conference registration and information can be found at: https://visitnebraska.com/nebraska-tourism conference.&nbsp;

Visit North Platte(North Platte, Nebraska, December 5, 2024) – Each year the Nebraska Tourism Commission hosts the&nbsp; Nebraska Tourism Conference to help professionals in the tourism industry learn how to get the most&nbsp; out of their business while gaining the latest industry knowledge, hearing fresh marketing ideas, finding greater financial opportunities, and networking with potential partners. The 2025 Nebraska Tourism Conference is scheduled for February 11th-13th at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp;Visit North Platte believes strongly in the tourism industry in North Platte and the surrounding&nbsp; communities. As part of our commitment to helping local tourism grow, we are offering three scholarships in the amount of $500 each to help defray the cost for area entrepreneurs interested in attending this conference.&nbsp;Reimbursable expenses include Conference Registration, lodging (not to exceed two nights), meals not&nbsp; included in the conference registration, and mileage to and from the conference. The scholarship is a&nbsp; stipend and is not intended to cover all costs associated with attending the conference.&nbsp;Any interested persons must submit an application and a typed essay responding to the following:&nbsp;1. Statement of financial need.&nbsp;2. The number of years you have previously attended the Nebraska Tourism Conference. 3. Statement explaining your existing or future tourism organization/business. 4. Statement explaining how attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference will benefit you and/or&nbsp; your organization/business.&nbsp;In addition, applicants must agree to submit a written summary to Visit North Platte detailing what they&nbsp; learned after attending the conference and how their tourism business/organization will benefit. Completed applications must be postmarked back to the Visit North Platte office by January 15th.&nbsp;For all information and application, go to https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/industry/scholarships/. If&nbsp; you have questions, please call 308-532-4729 or email hjones@VisitNorthPlatte.com.&nbsp;Conference registration and information can be found at: https://visitnebraska.com/nebraska-tourism conference.&nbsp;

Nebraska Tourism Conference Scholarships Offered 

<a>December 5, 2024 (OGALLALA, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>—&nbsp;Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol conducted alcohol compliance checks Wednesday afternoon and evening in Keith, Hayes, and Lincoln counties.

In total, 10 businesses were checked. All the businesses checked the minors ID. None of the businesses sold alcohol to a minor for a 100% compliance rate.

The businesses checked included Convenience Stores, Restaurants, Bars, and Liquor Stores.

Businesses that sell alcohol to a minor are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Clerks who sell alcohol to a minor are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

This project is funded 100% by the Region II Human Services SUPTBG ($427,899.00, 6B08TIO85820-01M002) through SAMHSA, contracted through the NDHHS, Division of Behavioral Health.

Mikayla HallNebraska State Patrol<a>December 5, 2024 (OGALLALA, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>—&nbsp;Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol conducted alcohol compliance checks Wednesday afternoon and evening in Keith, Hayes, and Lincoln counties.In total, 10 businesses were checked. All the businesses checked the minors ID. None of the businesses sold alcohol to a minor for a 100% compliance rate.The businesses checked included Convenience Stores, Restaurants, Bars, and Liquor Stores.Businesses that sell alcohol to a minor are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Clerks who sell alcohol to a minor are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.This project is funded 100% by the Region II Human Services SUPTBG ($427,899.00, 6B08TIO85820-01M002) through SAMHSA, contracted through the NDHHS, Division of Behavioral Health.

Alcohol Compliance Checks Held in Keith, Hayes, and Lincoln Counties

Lewellen, Neb. -&nbsp; The Garden Count Sheriff's Office is requesting the public's assistance with providing any information that might help us identify who is responsible for shooting a metal silhouette located at the Ash Hollow Cemetery. If you have any information, you can contact the Garden County Sheriff's Office at 308-772-3540.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733430929435.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Garden County Sheriff's OfficeLewellen, Neb. -&nbsp; The Garden Count Sheriff's Office is requesting the public's assistance with providing any information that might help us identify who is responsible for shooting a metal silhouette located at the Ash Hollow Cemetery. If you have any information, you can contact the Garden County Sheriff's Office at 308-772-3540.

Garden County Sheriff's Office seeking public assistance for an incident at Ash Hollow Cemetary

The Prairie Arts Center in North Platte is hosting Christmas at the Pac this Saturday with tons of different activities for everyone to enjoy. The event kicks off at 11:00am and runs until 4:00pm however brunch with Santa starts at 10:00am. Tickets for brunch with Santa are limited but are $10 and <a href="https://www.prairieartscenter.org/event-details/christmas-at-the-pac">can be purchased here</a>.&nbsp;

Saturday is shaping to be a beautiful day in North Platte and enjoy it at the PAC for holiday fun. Live artist demos from around the state, a chainsaw demo, face painting and so much more going on. During the week, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Holly Carlini from the Prairie Arts Center to talk about all the fun coming on Saturday. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;The Prairie Arts Center in North Platte is hosting Christmas at the Pac this Saturday with tons of different activities for everyone to enjoy. The event kicks off at 11:00am and runs until 4:00pm however brunch with Santa starts at 10:00am. Tickets for brunch with Santa are limited but are $10 and <a href="https://www.prairieartscenter.org/event-details/christmas-at-the-pac">can be purchased here</a>.&nbsp;Saturday is shaping to be a beautiful day in North Platte and enjoy it at the PAC for holiday fun. Live artist demos from around the state, a chainsaw demo, face painting and so much more going on. During the week, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Holly Carlini from the Prairie Arts Center to talk about all the fun coming on Saturday. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Prairie Arts Center preparing for Christmas at the Pac this Saturday" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=eh666-175f895-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

(Audio) Prairie Arts Center preparing for Christmas at the Pac this Saturday

For the calendar quarter beginning on&nbsp;April 1, 2025,&nbsp;the local sales and use tax changes will be:

There are no changes in county lodging tax rates for April 1, 2025.&nbsp;

As a reminder for the upcoming calendar quarter beginning on January 1, 2025, the city of&nbsp;Minatare&nbsp;will impose a new 1% local sales and use tax rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There were no changes in county lodging tax rates for January 1, 2025.&nbsp;

Nebraska Department of RevenueFor the calendar quarter beginning on&nbsp;April 1, 2025,&nbsp;the local sales and use tax changes will be:<ul>
 <li>Rulo, Shickley, and&nbsp;Thedford&nbsp;will each impose a new tax at a 1% rate;</li><li>Curtis&nbsp;and&nbsp;Eustis&nbsp;will each increase their rate from 1% to 1.5%;</li><li>Friend, Mullen&nbsp;and&nbsp;Norfolk&nbsp;will each increase their rate from 1.5% to 2%</li>
 </ul>There are no changes in county lodging tax rates for April 1, 2025.&nbsp;As a reminder for the upcoming calendar quarter beginning on January 1, 2025, the city of&nbsp;Minatare&nbsp;will impose a new 1% local sales and use tax rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;There were no changes in county lodging tax rates for January 1, 2025.&nbsp;

Local sales and Use Tax Rates beginning on April 1st for part of the coverage area

Madrid, Ne - The community of Madrid is celebrating the season with their 2nd annual "Christmas In Madrid" day this Thursday, December 5. Events will run from 9am-7pm throughout the village, with many events happening at Country Load Trailer Sales, just off of highway 23 on the west side of Madrid. Z 93.5 Country &amp; Flatrock 100.7 willl be on location at Country Load Trailer Sales in Madrid this Thursday evening from 4:30pm to 6:30pm Mountain time to help celebrate.

9am-6:30pm – Free Coffee &amp; Cinnamon Rolls at the Madrid General Store&nbsp;

11am-6pm – Free Brick Oven Pizza at Country Load Trailer Sales, and craft and vendor show in their shop&nbsp;

9am – 6pm – Free Popcorn and cookies all day at Regier Equipment&nbsp;

Noon Hour – Free Taco Lunch at Eastern Sky&nbsp;

Noon Hour – Hot Roast Beef at Country Kitchen&nbsp;

4pm – 6pm – Tractor and Hay Rack Rides to see Christmas Lights (at Country Load Trailer Sales)&nbsp;

5pm – Steak Dinner at Bootleg Bar&nbsp;

6pm – Santa is giving out 100 Free Toys&nbsp;courtesy&nbsp;of Regier Equipment at Country Load Trailer Sales&nbsp;

--Free Gift Wrapping and Hot Cocoa at AB&amp;T during the day&nbsp;

Multiple Vendors set up all day inside the Country Load Trailer Sales Shop area, AND at 6:30 - Country Load Trailer Sales is giving away a BRAND NEW Diamond C Trailer. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN! So join us on location at Country Load Trailer Sales This Thursday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm Mountain Time on the radio, or come and spend the day.

Madrid, Ne - The community of Madrid is celebrating the season with their 2nd annual "Christmas In Madrid" day this Thursday, December 5. Events will run from 9am-7pm throughout the village, with many events happening at Country Load Trailer Sales, just off of highway 23 on the west side of Madrid. Z 93.5 Country &amp; Flatrock 100.7 willl be on location at Country Load Trailer Sales in Madrid this Thursday evening from 4:30pm to 6:30pm Mountain time to help celebrate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733262161437.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>9am-6:30pm – Free Coffee &amp; Cinnamon Rolls at the Madrid General Store&nbsp;11am-6pm – Free Brick Oven Pizza at Country Load Trailer Sales, and craft and vendor show in their shop&nbsp;9am – 6pm – Free Popcorn and cookies all day at Regier Equipment&nbsp;Noon Hour – Free Taco Lunch at Eastern Sky&nbsp;Noon Hour – Hot Roast Beef at Country Kitchen&nbsp;4pm – 6pm – Tractor and Hay Rack Rides to see Christmas Lights (at Country Load Trailer Sales)&nbsp;5pm – Steak Dinner at Bootleg Bar&nbsp;6pm – Santa is giving out 100 Free Toys&nbsp;courtesy&nbsp;of Regier Equipment at Country Load Trailer Sales&nbsp;--Free Gift Wrapping and Hot Cocoa at AB&amp;T during the day&nbsp;Multiple Vendors set up all day inside the Country Load Trailer Sales Shop area, AND at 6:30 - Country Load Trailer Sales is giving away a BRAND NEW Diamond C Trailer. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN! So join us on location at Country Load Trailer Sales This Thursday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm Mountain Time on the radio, or come and spend the day.

2nd Annual Christmas in Madrid is tonight

Nebraska Extension will host Farm and Ranch Transition planning workshops in Oshkosh, and Alliance Nebraska Extension will host Transition Planning workshops for farmers and ranchers in Oshkosh and Alliance.&nbsp;

Nebraska Extension Educator, Jessica Groskopf will offer tools and strategies to plan, start effectively, and complete estate plans, offer background on common mistakes during the process, and highlight essential considerations for creating and carrying out estate and succession plans.

Following Groskopf’s presentation, Bridgeport Attorney, Katie Samples Dean, who focuses on estate and business planning for farmers and ranchers across Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado, will discuss the basics of estate planning in Nebraska, laws and other considerations in the transition; and where to go once you leave this presentation.

“The common mistake is that most know that they need a transition plan to pass their farm or ranch to the next generation, but never get around to putting a plan into a legal document,” Groskopf said. “Over several years, at the end of the workshop, the most common comment is that the participants wished that they had started learning the steps to start and complete a plan sooner.”

The program is free to attend, thanks to support from Big Iron Auctions. Registration is encouraged.&nbsp;

By Nebraska ExtensionNebraska Extension will host Farm and Ranch Transition planning workshops in Oshkosh, and Alliance Nebraska Extension will host Transition Planning workshops for farmers and ranchers in Oshkosh and Alliance.&nbsp;Nebraska Extension Educator, Jessica Groskopf will offer tools and strategies to plan, start effectively, and complete estate plans, offer background on common mistakes during the process, and highlight essential considerations for creating and carrying out estate and succession plans.Following Groskopf’s presentation, Bridgeport Attorney, Katie Samples Dean, who focuses on estate and business planning for farmers and ranchers across Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado, will discuss the basics of estate planning in Nebraska, laws and other considerations in the transition; and where to go once you leave this presentation.“The common mistake is that most know that they need a transition plan to pass their farm or ranch to the next generation, but never get around to putting a plan into a legal document,” Groskopf said. “Over several years, at the end of the workshop, the most common comment is that the participants wished that they had started learning the steps to start and complete a plan sooner.”<ul>
 <li>Dec. 11, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. in Chappell at the Berea Lutheran Church 2874 Hwy 27, Chappell, NE (between Oshkosh and Chappell). To register call the Garden County Extension Office at 308-772-3311.</li><li>Dec. 12, 9 a.m. – Noon in Alliance at the Box Butte County Extension Office, 415 Black Hills Avenue. To register call the Box Butte County Extension Office 308-762-5616.</li>
 </ul>The program is free to attend, thanks to support from Big Iron Auctions. Registration is encouraged.&nbsp;

Farm/Ranch Transition planning workshops offered in Oshkosh, Alliance

Preliminary results from the 2024 Nebraska November firearm deer season show statewide harvest was down 2% from 2023 and down 24% from the 2019-2023 average.

This was more successful than expected for the Nov. 16-24 season as November Firearm permit quotas were reduced 13% from 2023 in response to declining deer populations.

Mule deer buck harvest increased 9% from 2023, while whitetail buck harvest fell 2%. Antlerless mule deer harvest declined 10% from 2023, while antlerless whitetail increased 2%. All harvest levels are down significantly from the five-year average. Total deer harvest for the firearm season has declined each year since 2019.

“Nebraska Game and Parks significantly reduced permit quotas, intending to reduce harvest this year, due to lower numbers of deer,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. Deer populations in Nebraska have been declining in recent years due to drought conditions, severe winters and increased permit quotas in 2019 and 2020.

“Despite those lower deer populations and permit quotas, many Nebraska hunters found success and created great memories in the field this season,” he said.

Overall, November Firearm permit success was 2% higher at 40% this year, compared to 38% in 2023.

Final harvest results will be available following the close of all deer seasons. Archery season closes Dec. 31, while muzzleloader season is Dec. 1-31. The late antlerless season is Jan. 1-15, while the River Antlerless late season is Jan. 1-15.

Hunters are invited to learn more about the 2024 season, big game research, management and more at the big game public meetings scheduled in person and online beginning Dec. 9. Find a meeting at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcalendar.outdoornebraska.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019393b7d94f-cd1c9c63-8633-4410-914a-5f2565adf2af-000000/f3XB0P4ThV5fwZqLs24D3hCElk2G1WPZ34Xia3gHwxg=382" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

Find additional information about deer management, harvest success and other hunting opportunities at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhunt%2Fgame%2Fdeer%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019393b7d94f-cd1c9c63-8633-4410-914a-5f2565adf2af-000000/phTHqB-I6gLcrrkpOKO5eIlVSK6cVvc-NZ2g76yqCMI=382" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Hunters wishing to donate venison through the Deer Exchange or Hunters Helping the Hungry programs can also find more details there.

By Nebraska Game and ParksPreliminary results from the 2024 Nebraska November firearm deer season show statewide harvest was down 2% from 2023 and down 24% from the 2019-2023 average.This was more successful than expected for the Nov. 16-24 season as November Firearm permit quotas were reduced 13% from 2023 in response to declining deer populations.Mule deer buck harvest increased 9% from 2023, while whitetail buck harvest fell 2%. Antlerless mule deer harvest declined 10% from 2023, while antlerless whitetail increased 2%. All harvest levels are down significantly from the five-year average. Total deer harvest for the firearm season has declined each year since 2019.“Nebraska Game and Parks significantly reduced permit quotas, intending to reduce harvest this year, due to lower numbers of deer,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. Deer populations in Nebraska have been declining in recent years due to drought conditions, severe winters and increased permit quotas in 2019 and 2020.“Despite those lower deer populations and permit quotas, many Nebraska hunters found success and created great memories in the field this season,” he said.Overall, November Firearm permit success was 2% higher at 40% this year, compared to 38% in 2023.Final harvest results will be available following the close of all deer seasons. Archery season closes Dec. 31, while muzzleloader season is Dec. 1-31. The late antlerless season is Jan. 1-15, while the River Antlerless late season is Jan. 1-15.Hunters are invited to learn more about the 2024 season, big game research, management and more at the big game public meetings scheduled in person and online beginning Dec. 9. Find a meeting at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcalendar.outdoornebraska.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019393b7d94f-cd1c9c63-8633-4410-914a-5f2565adf2af-000000/f3XB0P4ThV5fwZqLs24D3hCElk2G1WPZ34Xia3gHwxg=382" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.Find additional information about deer management, harvest success and other hunting opportunities at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhunt%2Fgame%2Fdeer%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019393b7d94f-cd1c9c63-8633-4410-914a-5f2565adf2af-000000/phTHqB-I6gLcrrkpOKO5eIlVSK6cVvc-NZ2g76yqCMI=382" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Hunters wishing to donate venison through the Deer Exchange or Hunters Helping the Hungry programs can also find more details there.

Firearm deer harvest down 2% statewide

North Platte Community College’s STEM Club and Alpha Beta Theta, the college’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, are hosting Angel Trees to help children in need.

It’s part of a campaign by The Salvation Army of North Platte to provide gifts to the less fortunate during the holidays. Trees are located outside the welcome centers on the college’s north and south campuses.&nbsp;

Each tree is decorated with paper ornaments including basic information about the children as well as gifts they wish to receive.

People are encouraged to take an ornament, purchase a gift listed on the tag and then return the unwrapped item in a bag, with the tag attached, by Dec. 17 to The Salvation Army, 1020 N. Adams Ave.

Gifts can also be dropped off with math and physics instructor Jared Daily, in Room 217 of the Health and Science Center, or with history instructor Dr. Glynn Wolar in Room 145A of the McDonald-Belton Building.

Salvation Army volunteers will wrap the presents and distribute them to the participating children in time for Christmas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733346721596.jpeg" alt="North Platte Community College PTK co-presidents Andrew Tejral (left) and Kaitlyn Evans decorate the Angel Tree located in the entrance of McDonald Belton Building on NPCC South Campus. Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to participate in the annual event providing gifts to those in need this holiday season." />
 <figcaption>North Platte Community College PTK co-presidents Andrew Tejral (left) and Kaitlyn Evans decorate the Angel Tree located in the entrance of McDonald Belton Building on NPCC South Campus. Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to participate in the annual event providing gifts to those in need this holiday season.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jennifer FullerNPCCNorth Platte Community College’s STEM Club and Alpha Beta Theta, the college’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, are hosting Angel Trees to help children in need.It’s part of a campaign by The Salvation Army of North Platte to provide gifts to the less fortunate during the holidays. Trees are located outside the welcome centers on the college’s north and south campuses.&nbsp;Each tree is decorated with paper ornaments including basic information about the children as well as gifts they wish to receive.People are encouraged to take an ornament, purchase a gift listed on the tag and then return the unwrapped item in a bag, with the tag attached, by Dec. 17 to The Salvation Army, 1020 N. Adams Ave.Gifts can also be dropped off with math and physics instructor Jared Daily, in Room 217 of the Health and Science Center, or with history instructor Dr. Glynn Wolar in Room 145A of the McDonald-Belton Building.Salvation Army volunteers will wrap the presents and distribute them to the participating children in time for Christmas.

NPCC student organizations host Angel Trees

When seconds matter, having the most up-to-date information is critical. Now, those serviced by the North Platte 911 Center, can connect with first responders through a new tool to help keep responders up to speed as they respond to calls for service.

It’s called “Prepared 911”, a cloud-based tool, used by first responders, when necessary, upon the 911 callers’ consent. The system will ensure the adequate response is given by deploying resources more efficiently.

Callers can send live video, photo, text, and GPS, and that information can subsequently be shared with first responders. “Prepared 911” allows telecommunicators to respond to those who are not able to connect for services by confirming if help is needed via text.&nbsp; “Prepared 911” also reduces language barriers with real-time, AI-powered transcription, translation and insights.

“Prepared 911” enables 911 telecommunicators to initiate live stream video with on scene callers and better connect with community members by translating in more than 140 languages and providing access to deaf and hard of hearing residents.

The feature was released internally a few weeks ago and is now accessible to the North Platte 911 Center community when a 911 call is placed.

The ability to see what is occurring before arrival provides significant safety benefits to the first responder and can facilitate decision-making in advance of being on scene.

For additional information, visit https://www.prepared911.com/.

North Platte Police DepartmentWhen seconds matter, having the most up-to-date information is critical. Now, those serviced by the North Platte 911 Center, can connect with first responders through a new tool to help keep responders up to speed as they respond to calls for service.It’s called “Prepared 911”, a cloud-based tool, used by first responders, when necessary, upon the 911 callers’ consent. The system will ensure the adequate response is given by deploying resources more efficiently.Callers can send live video, photo, text, and GPS, and that information can subsequently be shared with first responders. “Prepared 911” allows telecommunicators to respond to those who are not able to connect for services by confirming if help is needed via text.&nbsp; “Prepared 911” also reduces language barriers with real-time, AI-powered transcription, translation and insights.“Prepared 911” enables 911 telecommunicators to initiate live stream video with on scene callers and better connect with community members by translating in more than 140 languages and providing access to deaf and hard of hearing residents.The feature was released internally a few weeks ago and is now accessible to the North Platte 911 Center community when a 911 call is placed.The ability to see what is occurring before arrival provides significant safety benefits to the first responder and can facilitate decision-making in advance of being on scene.For additional information, visit https://www.prepared911.com/.

North Platte Police announces residents can use a new tool called "Prepared 911"

North Platte Post/Sandhills Post&nbsp;

Hershey, Neb. - It's been nearly 9 months since an early March snowstorm caused a partial collapse of the roof of a popular western store, KJ's Boots and Western Wear in Hershey. &nbsp;

The exciting news is that progress is now underway to demolish the current building and start the process of building the new building for the store with the hopes of having it operational in late spring of 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We're thinking maybe by the end of the week we'll have the metal stripped off of it, and we're hoping by starting next week or so, we'll have maybe pushed it over and then hopefully start cleaning up by the end of next week," said Anthony Kuhlmann, KJ's Boots and Western Wear spokesperson. "So have it [property] probably emptied out tail end of next week to the start of the next, and hopefully by Christmas we'll actually have a pad on the ground so that way we can start construction back up."&nbsp;

When construction starts on the new building, customers may notice that the exterior of the structure might have a bit of a different look but the footprint of the interior of the building is going to look very similar.&nbsp; &nbsp;

KJ's Boots and Western Wear has two parts of the building with the South side being built in 1993 and the North side being built in 1996. The partial collapse occurred on the south end of the building. After clearing out the inventory and having a chance to inspect the building, the Kuhlmann family found out how much damage there was.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"So, at the start we knew the south end was a total loss, the north end; we knew there was going to be some damage to it. As the demo has started, we're starting to see that it was probably a little bit worse than what we had anticipated to begin with and it was probably a good idea that we went ahead and we're going to demo the entire building," said Kuhlmann.&nbsp;

A local crew is overseeing tear down of the building while Vap Construction from Atwood, Kansas will&nbsp; reconstruct the new building.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KJ's Boots and Western Wear was damaged March 7 and 8 when a record amount of snowfall for much of the listening area including Hershey.

 In an article published by the POST back in March, co-owner Kevin Kuhlmann had been clearing snow all day and that Friday afternoon was set to clear snow from KJ's parking lot since the store was closed due to the weather. Kuhlmann went inside and saw the southeast side of the building had partially collapsed due to the snow. That's when calls went out for help and a Facebook post was made asking people to come help.&nbsp;

"That was quite the blur when it happened. It started out with just the family up here starting to move things out. We knew we needed to move fast. The next thing I know it was just one person showing up, we didn't know who they were, and then another person showed up and next thing you know," said Kuhlmann. "I would say we easily had a hundred people show up from the community to help us out. The support we got from the community, it was amazing. We couldn't ask for more, a better place to be."&nbsp;

KJ's Boots and Western Wear has been open since June at their second location in North Platte at 601 East Francis Street. The store is open Monday - Saturday from 9:00am - 6:00pm and on Sunday from 1:00pm - 5:00pm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733341250463.jpeg" alt="Front of KJ's Boots and Western Wear store off the Hershey exit (POST/Canon Rath)" />
 <figcaption>Front of KJ's Boots and Western Wear store off the Hershey exit (POST/Canon Rath)</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post/Sandhills Post&nbsp;Hershey, Neb. - It's been nearly 9 months since an early March snowstorm caused a partial collapse of the roof of a popular western store, KJ's Boots and Western Wear in Hershey. &nbsp;The exciting news is that progress is now underway to demolish the current building and start the process of building the new building for the store with the hopes of having it operational in late spring of 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We're thinking maybe by the end of the week we'll have the metal stripped off of it, and we're hoping by starting next week or so, we'll have maybe pushed it over and then hopefully start cleaning up by the end of next week," said Anthony Kuhlmann, KJ's Boots and Western Wear spokesperson. "So have it [property] probably emptied out tail end of next week to the start of the next, and hopefully by Christmas we'll actually have a pad on the ground so that way we can start construction back up."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733345222791.jpeg" alt="Back of KJ's Boots and Western Wear (POST/Canon Rath)" />
 <figcaption>Back of KJ's Boots and Western Wear (POST/Canon Rath)</figcaption>
 </figure>When construction starts on the new building, customers may notice that the exterior of the structure might have a bit of a different look but the footprint of the interior of the building is going to look very similar.&nbsp; &nbsp;KJ's Boots and Western Wear has two parts of the building with the South side being built in 1993 and the North side being built in 1996. The partial collapse occurred on the south end of the building. After clearing out the inventory and having a chance to inspect the building, the Kuhlmann family found out how much damage there was.&nbsp;&nbsp;"So, at the start we knew the south end was a total loss, the north end; we knew there was going to be some damage to it. As the demo has started, we're starting to see that it was probably a little bit worse than what we had anticipated to begin with and it was probably a good idea that we went ahead and we're going to demo the entire building," said Kuhlmann.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733345305248.jpeg" alt="Inside KJ's Boots and Western Wear looking towards the South (POST/Canon Rath)" />
 <figcaption>Inside KJ's Boots and Western Wear looking towards the South (POST/Canon Rath)</figcaption>
 </figure>A local crew is overseeing tear down of the building while Vap Construction from Atwood, Kansas will&nbsp; reconstruct the new building.&nbsp;&nbsp;KJ's Boots and Western Wear was damaged March 7 and 8 when a record amount of snowfall for much of the listening area including Hershey. In an article published by the POST back in March, co-owner Kevin Kuhlmann had been clearing snow all day and that Friday afternoon was set to clear snow from KJ's parking lot since the store was closed due to the weather. Kuhlmann went inside and saw the southeast side of the building had partially collapsed due to the snow. That's when calls went out for help and a Facebook post was made asking people to come help.&nbsp;"That was quite the blur when it happened. It started out with just the family up here starting to move things out. We knew we needed to move fast. The next thing I know it was just one person showing up, we didn't know who they were, and then another person showed up and next thing you know," said Kuhlmann. "I would say we easily had a hundred people show up from the community to help us out. The support we got from the community, it was amazing. We couldn't ask for more, a better place to be."&nbsp;KJ's Boots and Western Wear has been open since June at their second location in North Platte at 601 East Francis Street. The store is open Monday - Saturday from 9:00am - 6:00pm and on Sunday from 1:00pm - 5:00pm.&nbsp;

KJ's Boots and Western Wear preparing to build new building 

Ogallala, Neb. - High School basketball is officially back in the state of Nebraska and Sandhills Post and Flatrock 100.7 will have LIVE Ogallala games this week and throughout the season on Flatrock 100.7 with award winning, veteran sports broadcaster Derek Beck. Ogallala basketball broadcast this season can be heard on Flatrock 100.7, or the<a href="https://flatrock1007.com/"> online stream.</a>&nbsp;This week schedule:

Ogallala High School Girls &amp; Boys Basketball vs. Lexington from the Prairie View Gym in Ogallala. Kwik Stop pregame starts at 5:15pm Mountain time with tipoff at 5:30 PM Mountain time on Flatrock 100.7, Listen Online at SandhillsPost.com.

Saturday, Dec 7: Ogallala High School Girls &amp; Boys Basketball @ Minden. Kwik Stop pregame starts at 3:15 PM Mountain Time with tipoff at 3:30 PM Mountain Time on Flatrock 100.7, Listen Online at SandhillsPost.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733339707590.jpeg" alt="Ogallala girls basketball at GINW 2023 (POST/Canon Rath)" />
 <figcaption>Ogallala girls basketball at GINW 2023 (POST/Canon Rath)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sandhills PostOgallala, Neb. - High School basketball is officially back in the state of Nebraska and Sandhills Post and Flatrock 100.7 will have LIVE Ogallala games this week and throughout the season on Flatrock 100.7 with award winning, veteran sports broadcaster Derek Beck. Ogallala basketball broadcast this season can be heard on Flatrock 100.7, or the<a href="https://flatrock1007.com/"> online stream.</a>&nbsp;This week schedule:Friday, December 6Ogallala High School Girls &amp; Boys Basketball vs. Lexington from the Prairie View Gym in Ogallala. Kwik Stop pregame starts at 5:15pm Mountain time with tipoff at 5:30 PM Mountain time on Flatrock 100.7, Listen Online at SandhillsPost.com.Saturday, December 7Saturday, Dec 7: Ogallala High School Girls &amp; Boys Basketball @ Minden. Kwik Stop pregame starts at 3:15 PM Mountain Time with tipoff at 3:30 PM Mountain Time on Flatrock 100.7, Listen Online at SandhillsPost.com.

(Radio Coverage) Ogallala Hoops for week of 12/01/2024

North Platte, Neb. - The North Platte Police Department participated in the “And Then It Clicked” High Visibility traffic enforcement campaign from November 23rd through December 1st.&nbsp; Department wide, 110 traffic contacts were made. &nbsp; 

Four people were arrested for DUI alcohol.&nbsp; Four fugitive warrants were served.&nbsp; One juvenile was arrested for Minor in Possession of Alcohol. One person was arrested for Flight to Avoid Arrest.&nbsp; Two people were arrested for Driving Under Suspension, one being a Felony. Eight citations were issued for speeding.&nbsp; 

Six citations were issued for careless/reckless driving and four people were cited for traffic signal violations.&nbsp; One citation was issued for seatbelt violations.&nbsp; The Pre-enforcement seat belt observation conducted on 11-18-24 showed a 52% seatbelt usage rate.&nbsp; 

The Post-enforcement seat belt observation conducted on 12-02-24 showed a 53% seatbelt usage rate.&nbsp;

North Platte Police DepartmentNorth Platte, Neb. - The North Platte Police Department participated in the “And Then It Clicked” High Visibility traffic enforcement campaign from November 23rd through December 1st.&nbsp; Department wide, 110 traffic contacts were made. &nbsp; Four people were arrested for DUI alcohol.&nbsp; Four fugitive warrants were served.&nbsp; One juvenile was arrested for Minor in Possession of Alcohol. One person was arrested for Flight to Avoid Arrest.&nbsp; Two people were arrested for Driving Under Suspension, one being a Felony. Eight citations were issued for speeding.&nbsp; Six citations were issued for careless/reckless driving and four people were cited for traffic signal violations.&nbsp; One citation was issued for seatbelt violations.&nbsp; The Pre-enforcement seat belt observation conducted on 11-18-24 showed a 52% seatbelt usage rate.&nbsp; The Post-enforcement seat belt observation conducted on 12-02-24 showed a 53% seatbelt usage rate.&nbsp;

North Platte Police release final statistics from "And Then It Click" campaign

As the holiday season is quickly approaching, there are many fun activities this week for everyone to enjoy in Keith County. Check out all the fun holiday activities taking place this week in Keith County.&nbsp;

A local favorite, the annual parade of lights will be taking place on N. Spruce St. in downtown from 5:30pm - 6:30pm. The POST will be live on location announcing this year's parade and will also be livestreaming the event on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sandhillspost" target="_blank">Sandhills Post Facebook page</a>. The event is sponsored by the Keith County Chamber.&nbsp;

Residents are invited to tour decorated homes and to visit the Mansion on the Hill Museum for The Holiday Home Tour – Keith County Historical Society. Tickets are on sale for $25 and tickets can be purchased at the Keith County Chamber, MaKenzi's Boutique and Pinnacle Bank. The event is sponsored by the Keith County Historical Society.&nbsp;

Also on Saturday, tickets go on sale at 9:00am for the Polar Express Tour. Tickets can be purchased at the&nbsp;Ogallala Firehall. The event is sponsored by the Ogallala Optimist Club.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733330881210.jpeg" alt="Ogallala parade of lights 2023 (POST/Derek Beck)" />
 <figcaption>Ogallala parade of lights 2023 (POST/Derek Beck)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sandhills Post&nbsp;As the holiday season is quickly approaching, there are many fun activities this week for everyone to enjoy in Keith County. Check out all the fun holiday activities taking place this week in Keith County.&nbsp;Thursday, December 5&nbsp;A local favorite, the annual parade of lights will be taking place on N. Spruce St. in downtown from 5:30pm - 6:30pm. The POST will be live on location announcing this year's parade and will also be livestreaming the event on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sandhillspost" target="_blank">Sandhills Post Facebook page</a>. The event is sponsored by the Keith County Chamber.&nbsp;Saturday, December 7&nbsp;Residents are invited to tour decorated homes and to visit the Mansion on the Hill Museum for The Holiday Home Tour – Keith County Historical Society. Tickets are on sale for $25 and tickets can be purchased at the Keith County Chamber, MaKenzi's Boutique and Pinnacle Bank. The event is sponsored by the Keith County Historical Society.&nbsp;Also on Saturday, tickets go on sale at 9:00am for the Polar Express Tour. Tickets can be purchased at the&nbsp;Ogallala Firehall. The event is sponsored by the Ogallala Optimist Club.&nbsp;

Holiday activities scheduled this week in Keith County

December 4, 2024 (Lexington, Neb.) – Dawson PPD Safety and Loss Prevention Coordinator Dean Kunkee was awarded the Nebraska Rural Electric Association (NREA) Jack McEnerney Award. The award is given annually to “an individual whose outstanding efforts in safety and training best exemplify the example set by Jack McEnerney.”

He was nominated by Dawson PPD General Manager Gwen Kautz, who wrote, “Dean exemplifies the qualities sought for the Jack McEnerney Award through his unwavering commitment to safety and his proactive efforts in advancing the safety program at NREA.”

Kunkee is responsible for Dawson PPD’s Safety Program and serves as Chair of the NREA Job Training and Safety Committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733325160516.jpeg" alt="Dean Kunkee Jack McEnerney Award 2024 photo caption: NREA Job Training and Safety Coordinator Larry Oetken, left, presents the Jack McEnerney Award to Dawson PPD Safety and Loss Prevention Coordinator Dean Kunkee. (Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>Dean Kunkee Jack McEnerney Award 2024 photo caption: NREA Job Training and Safety Coordinator Larry Oetken, left, presents the Jack McEnerney Award to Dawson PPD Safety and Loss Prevention Coordinator Dean Kunkee. (Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Dawson Public Power DistrictDecember 4, 2024 (Lexington, Neb.) – Dawson PPD Safety and Loss Prevention Coordinator Dean Kunkee was awarded the Nebraska Rural Electric Association (NREA) Jack McEnerney Award. The award is given annually to “an individual whose outstanding efforts in safety and training best exemplify the example set by Jack McEnerney.”He was nominated by Dawson PPD General Manager Gwen Kautz, who wrote, “Dean exemplifies the qualities sought for the Jack McEnerney Award through his unwavering commitment to safety and his proactive efforts in advancing the safety program at NREA.”Kunkee is responsible for Dawson PPD’s Safety Program and serves as Chair of the NREA Job Training and Safety Committee.

Dawson PPD Safety and Loss Prevention Coordinator Dean Kunkee Recognized for Excellence in Safety and Training

(North Platte, Nebraska) – With the holiday season upon us, the Tourism Advisory Council (TAC) of North Platte has decided to continue our tradition of gifting two employees of a tourism driven business a basket of goodies to help them put together their holiday feasts! Each business that is a member of TAC puts in the name of one employee or volunteer from their organization that they would like to gift a meal to. 

These names are drawn, and one Thanksgiving basket is given, and one Christmas basket is given. TAC provides the turkey for the Thanksgiving basket and the ham for the Christmas basket, and the side dishes are donated by TAC members. This year the recipient of the Thanksgiving basket is a volunteer of the North Platte Pow Wow, and they received their meal the week of Thanksgiving. The recipient of the Christmas basket is an employee of Axes and Aces, and their basket will be delivered the week of Christmas.&nbsp;

The purpose of the Tourism Advisory Council is to advance the tourism industry in the City of North Platte/Lincoln County. We raise the standard and upgrade the economy of the tourism/lodging industry and maintain a front-line training program for all front-line employees because they all have a direct influence on tourism traffic. We also encourage and maintain truthfulness and fair play in advertising and general business practices, and we try to bring about a better public understanding of the aims and benefits of the tourism industry. We are continually working to establish a forum where ideas, information, and experience regarding the tourism industry can be exchanged to help better us all.&nbsp;

When we all work together to increase tourism within our community and to educate people about the benefits that tourism has on our community, we are more successful. It takes a lot of hard-working individuals to keep every business of TAC not only running but succeeding. That is why it is important to us that we recognize one of these individuals by gifting them this holiday basket. We would like to wish happy holidays to not only the recipient of this gift, but to everyone involved in this community. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without all of you!&nbsp;

Anyone interested in learning more about TAC or becoming a member is encouraged to reach out to Amanda Connick at aconnick@VisitNorthPlatte.com or 308-532-4729.&nbsp;

Visit North Platte(North Platte, Nebraska) – With the holiday season upon us, the Tourism Advisory Council (TAC) of North Platte has decided to continue our tradition of gifting two employees of a tourism driven business a basket of goodies to help them put together their holiday feasts! Each business that is a member of TAC puts in the name of one employee or volunteer from their organization that they would like to gift a meal to. These names are drawn, and one Thanksgiving basket is given, and one Christmas basket is given. TAC provides the turkey for the Thanksgiving basket and the ham for the Christmas basket, and the side dishes are donated by TAC members. This year the recipient of the Thanksgiving basket is a volunteer of the North Platte Pow Wow, and they received their meal the week of Thanksgiving. The recipient of the Christmas basket is an employee of Axes and Aces, and their basket will be delivered the week of Christmas.&nbsp;The purpose of the Tourism Advisory Council is to advance the tourism industry in the City of North Platte/Lincoln County. We raise the standard and upgrade the economy of the tourism/lodging industry and maintain a front-line training program for all front-line employees because they all have a direct influence on tourism traffic. We also encourage and maintain truthfulness and fair play in advertising and general business practices, and we try to bring about a better public understanding of the aims and benefits of the tourism industry. We are continually working to establish a forum where ideas, information, and experience regarding the tourism industry can be exchanged to help better us all.&nbsp;When we all work together to increase tourism within our community and to educate people about the benefits that tourism has on our community, we are more successful. It takes a lot of hard-working individuals to keep every business of TAC not only running but succeeding. That is why it is important to us that we recognize one of these individuals by gifting them this holiday basket. We would like to wish happy holidays to not only the recipient of this gift, but to everyone involved in this community. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without all of you!&nbsp;Anyone interested in learning more about TAC or becoming a member is encouraged to reach out to Amanda Connick at aconnick@VisitNorthPlatte.com or 308-532-4729.&nbsp;

Tourism Advisory Council Holiday Baskets 

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (December 3, 2024) — A leading healthcare accreditation&nbsp; organization has recognized Great Plains Health for excellence in overall hospital care&nbsp; and two specialty programs. The Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ)&nbsp; awarded the hospital:&nbsp;

• Primary Stroke Center certification&nbsp;

• Joint Replacement Center certification&nbsp;

During an on-site evaluation Oct. 15, CIHQ surveyors reviewed medical records,&nbsp; observed patient care and interviewed staff across all departments, focusing on safety&nbsp; measures, patient care standards and healthcare outcomes.&nbsp;

"This accreditation touches every corner of our hospital," said Barb Petersen, chief&nbsp; quality officer. "From our environmental services team to our surgeons, everyone played&nbsp; a part in meeting these national standards. It confirms what I see every day — our&nbsp; team's total commitment to quality care."&nbsp;

The hospital's Primary Stroke Center certification validates its ability to provide rapid&nbsp; response and advanced care for stroke patients, while the Joint Replacement Center&nbsp; certification recognizes excellence in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation services.&nbsp; These specialized certifications highlight Great Plains Health's expanding role as a&nbsp; regional healthcare leader.&nbsp;

"CIHQ's goal is to partner with hospitals to improve the care provided in our&nbsp; communities," said Richard Curtis, chief executive officer of CIHQ. "CIHQ is proud to&nbsp; recognize Great Plains Health for achieving accreditation."&nbsp;

The accreditation and certifications demonstrate Great Plains Health's compliance with&nbsp; national healthcare standards and Medicare requirements and ensures the community&nbsp; has access to quality care that meets the highest national standards.

Great Plains HealthNORTH PLATTE, Neb. (December 3, 2024) — A leading healthcare accreditation&nbsp; organization has recognized Great Plains Health for excellence in overall hospital care&nbsp; and two specialty programs. The Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ)&nbsp; awarded the hospital:&nbsp;• Full hospital accreditation&nbsp;• Primary Stroke Center certification&nbsp;• Joint Replacement Center certification&nbsp;During an on-site evaluation Oct. 15, CIHQ surveyors reviewed medical records,&nbsp; observed patient care and interviewed staff across all departments, focusing on safety&nbsp; measures, patient care standards and healthcare outcomes.&nbsp;"This accreditation touches every corner of our hospital," said Barb Petersen, chief&nbsp; quality officer. "From our environmental services team to our surgeons, everyone played&nbsp; a part in meeting these national standards. It confirms what I see every day — our&nbsp; team's total commitment to quality care."&nbsp;The hospital's Primary Stroke Center certification validates its ability to provide rapid&nbsp; response and advanced care for stroke patients, while the Joint Replacement Center&nbsp; certification recognizes excellence in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation services.&nbsp; These specialized certifications highlight Great Plains Health's expanding role as a&nbsp; regional healthcare leader.&nbsp;"CIHQ's goal is to partner with hospitals to improve the care provided in our&nbsp; communities," said Richard Curtis, chief executive officer of CIHQ. "CIHQ is proud to&nbsp; recognize Great Plains Health for achieving accreditation."&nbsp;The accreditation and certifications demonstrate Great Plains Health's compliance with&nbsp; national healthcare standards and Medicare requirements and ensures the community&nbsp; has access to quality care that meets the highest national standards.

Great Plains Health Earns Top Healthcare Quality Awards, Including Stroke and  Joint Replacement Recognition 

North Platte, Neb. –&nbsp; This holiday season, the North Platte Community College athletic department will be hosting a winter coat drive.

People are encouraged to donate lightly used coats of all sizes and colors. Donations can be placed in the big box located in the concession stand area of the McDonald-Belton Building.

The coat drive will conclude Dec. 10, following the women’s and men’s basketball games beginning at 5:30 p.m. All donated coats will be distributed to The Connection Homeless Shelter and the Rape/Domestic Abuse Program of North Platte.

Questions pertaining to the coat drive can be directed to Jeff Thurman by calling (308) 535-3756.

Daniel StinmanNPCCNorth Platte, Neb. –&nbsp; This holiday season, the North Platte Community College athletic department will be hosting a winter coat drive.People are encouraged to donate lightly used coats of all sizes and colors. Donations can be placed in the big box located in the concession stand area of the McDonald-Belton Building.The coat drive will conclude Dec. 10, following the women’s and men’s basketball games beginning at 5:30 p.m. All donated coats will be distributed to The Connection Homeless Shelter and the Rape/Domestic Abuse Program of North Platte.Questions pertaining to the coat drive can be directed to Jeff Thurman by calling (308) 535-3756.

NPCC athletic department launches coat drive

KEARNEY – University of Nebraska at Kearney senior Abbygail Marshall sat down at a piano inside the Fine Arts Building on campus.

“I’m your metronome, so listen to me,” she told a dozen young musicians gathered in the rehearsal space.

UNK junior Noah Reimer stood beside her, ready to guide the elementary students through a performance of “Five Note Fiddler.”

“1, 2. 1, 2. Beginning. Go,” Marshall said before the small ensemble started to play.

With Reimer co-leading on the violin, Marshall provided feedback and instructions as the group worked through the piece.

“We have a wide variety of personalities and different skill levels in this room,” Marshall said. “That’s something I really enjoy. It’s fun to create a class where you have to mesh those personalities and skill levels together and find a middle ground that works for everybody. It’s just challenging in that way, the teaching aspect of it.”

Marshall, Reimer and two other undergraduate students are teachers for the UNK String Project, which provides high-quality, low-cost music instruction for Kearney-area youths in grades 3-12.

Part of the National String Project Consortium, which includes about 40 institutions across the country, the UNK program was launched in 2008 to improve access to music education in central Nebraska and inspire a lifelong passion for music among participants. About 30 students, most in elementary or middle school, are taking classes this semester.

“Music education is important because it teaches kids about a different aspect of life and gives them something to work toward that’s not regular schoolwork or sports. It makes them more well-rounded as they grow up,” Reimer said. “Even if they don’t pursue music professionally, it’s still a good thing to have in your life.”

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/music/index.php">music performance major</a>&nbsp;from Bellevue, Reimer started taking lessons at age 3, learning alongside his mother. Now, he plays the violin and cello, teaches private lessons at Yandas Music in downtown Kearney and performs with the Kearney Symphony Orchestra, Kearney Chamber Orchestra, Hastings Symphony Orchestra and Thornton String Quartet, a select UNK student ensemble.

He’s been part of the UNK String Project since 2022.

“I started teaching private lessons when I was in high school, and I enjoyed that. When I came here, Dr. Rogoff asked about teaching in the classroom, which I’d never done before, so I wanted that experience,” said Reimer, who won the UNK Concerto/Aria Competition in 2023. “I just want to be able to share music with as many people as I can.”

The UNK String Project offers beginning, intermediate and advanced instruction in viola, bass, cello and violin, with classes meeting twice a week on campus. The cost is just $50 per semester – and instruments can be rented from UNK if a student doesn’t own one – so it’s an affordable option for most families.

“That’s been important to us,” said UNK music professor Noah Rogoff. “Musical talent is not limited to any particular group of people. It exists in everybody, everywhere. In order to maximize the potential of that talent, we want to make it as accessible as possible.”

As director of the UNK String Project, Rogoff teaches classes and mentors the UNK student instructors, who receive a stipend for their work. He also organizes the end-of-semester concerts showcasing program participants and plans an end-of-the-year party.

“My favorite part is the joy and energy and excitement that the students bring every single day when we see them,” said Rogoff, who served as chair of the National String Project Consortium Board the past two years. “They always have a way to surprise you and make you feel the same joy that they feel. It’s really a virtuous circle where we inspire each other.”

In addition to inspiring and training young musicians, the UNK String Project supports the next generation of music educators. Although teaching positions are available for any UNK student with a background in string instruments, most of them are studying either music education or music performance.

“There’s nothing else like this in terms of giving undergraduates a chance to do hands-on teaching as early as their freshman year,” Rogoff said. “By the time they’re student teaching or going out into the profession, they feel really comfortable in the classroom and they feel comfortable directing an ensemble in a concert because they’ve had those experiences for a number of years already.”

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/music/undergraduate-programs/music-education-k-12.php">music education major</a>, Marshall is in her fourth year as an instructor for the UNK String Project and third year as the head teacher. She calls it her “pre-experience,” an opportunity to work directly with students and gain valuable insights before her professional career begins.

“I think it’s really fun, too,” she said. “I enjoy the kids and getting to teach them the instruments that I play.”

The North Platte native has always loved music. She began playing the piano at age 7 and violin at age 10. Orchestra and band were “always the best part of the day,” according to Marshall, who decided to pursue music education so she could share that passion with others.

“Music can be an emotional outlet for students or an escape from their everyday routine,” she said. “It also opens the door to the world. We study different cultures and different historical eras through music without even realizing that we’re doing it.”

Marshall has been part of the Thornton String Quartet, Symphonic Band and Kearney Symphony Orchestra during her time at UNK, and she’s currently student teaching at Kearney Public Schools. She’ll start her professional career as an elementary music teacher at KPS next fall.

“I hope to lead generations of children into having a love and appreciation for music in all aspects,” Marshall said. “I hope to open doors to things that they did not know were possible, whether that be other cultures, future career paths or just a deep emotional connection to music.

“Music is for everyone; they don’t need to master an instrument to be part of it.”

For more information on the UNK String Project, contact Rogoff at 308-865-8619 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rogoffnt@unk.edu">rogoffnt@unk.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733256111706.jpeg" alt="NK students Abbygail Marshall and Noah Reimer lead a UNK String Project class in the Fine Arts Building on campus. The program provides high-quality, low-cost music instruction for Kearney-area youths. (Photos by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)" />
 <figcaption>NK students Abbygail Marshall and Noah Reimer lead a UNK String Project class in the Fine Arts Building on campus. The program provides high-quality, low-cost music instruction for Kearney-area youths. (Photos by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK CommunicationsKEARNEY – University of Nebraska at Kearney senior Abbygail Marshall sat down at a piano inside the Fine Arts Building on campus.“I’m your metronome, so listen to me,” she told a dozen young musicians gathered in the rehearsal space.UNK junior Noah Reimer stood beside her, ready to guide the elementary students through a performance of “Five Note Fiddler.”“1, 2. 1, 2. Beginning. Go,” Marshall said before the small ensemble started to play.With Reimer co-leading on the violin, Marshall provided feedback and instructions as the group worked through the piece.“We have a wide variety of personalities and different skill levels in this room,” Marshall said. “That’s something I really enjoy. It’s fun to create a class where you have to mesh those personalities and skill levels together and find a middle ground that works for everybody. It’s just challenging in that way, the teaching aspect of it.”Marshall, Reimer and two other undergraduate students are teachers for the UNK String Project, which provides high-quality, low-cost music instruction for Kearney-area youths in grades 3-12.Part of the National String Project Consortium, which includes about 40 institutions across the country, the UNK program was launched in 2008 to improve access to music education in central Nebraska and inspire a lifelong passion for music among participants. About 30 students, most in elementary or middle school, are taking classes this semester.“Music education is important because it teaches kids about a different aspect of life and gives them something to work toward that’s not regular schoolwork or sports. It makes them more well-rounded as they grow up,” Reimer said. “Even if they don’t pursue music professionally, it’s still a good thing to have in your life.”<h2>SHARING JOY</h2>A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/music/index.php">music performance major</a>&nbsp;from Bellevue, Reimer started taking lessons at age 3, learning alongside his mother. Now, he plays the violin and cello, teaches private lessons at Yandas Music in downtown Kearney and performs with the Kearney Symphony Orchestra, Kearney Chamber Orchestra, Hastings Symphony Orchestra and Thornton String Quartet, a select UNK student ensemble.He’s been part of the UNK String Project since 2022.“I started teaching private lessons when I was in high school, and I enjoyed that. When I came here, Dr. Rogoff asked about teaching in the classroom, which I’d never done before, so I wanted that experience,” said Reimer, who won the UNK Concerto/Aria Competition in 2023. “I just want to be able to share music with as many people as I can.”The UNK String Project offers beginning, intermediate and advanced instruction in viola, bass, cello and violin, with classes meeting twice a week on campus. The cost is just $50 per semester – and instruments can be rented from UNK if a student doesn’t own one – so it’s an affordable option for most families.“That’s been important to us,” said UNK music professor Noah Rogoff. “Musical talent is not limited to any particular group of people. It exists in everybody, everywhere. In order to maximize the potential of that talent, we want to make it as accessible as possible.”As director of the UNK String Project, Rogoff teaches classes and mentors the UNK student instructors, who receive a stipend for their work. He also organizes the end-of-semester concerts showcasing program participants and plans an end-of-the-year party.“My favorite part is the joy and energy and excitement that the students bring every single day when we see them,” said Rogoff, who served as chair of the National String Project Consortium Board the past two years. “They always have a way to surprise you and make you feel the same joy that they feel. It’s really a virtuous circle where we inspire each other.”<h2>OPENING DOORS</h2>In addition to inspiring and training young musicians, the UNK String Project supports the next generation of music educators. Although teaching positions are available for any UNK student with a background in string instruments, most of them are studying either music education or music performance.“There’s nothing else like this in terms of giving undergraduates a chance to do hands-on teaching as early as their freshman year,” Rogoff said. “By the time they’re student teaching or going out into the profession, they feel really comfortable in the classroom and they feel comfortable directing an ensemble in a concert because they’ve had those experiences for a number of years already.”A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/music/undergraduate-programs/music-education-k-12.php">music education major</a>, Marshall is in her fourth year as an instructor for the UNK String Project and third year as the head teacher. She calls it her “pre-experience,” an opportunity to work directly with students and gain valuable insights before her professional career begins.“I think it’s really fun, too,” she said. “I enjoy the kids and getting to teach them the instruments that I play.”The North Platte native has always loved music. She began playing the piano at age 7 and violin at age 10. Orchestra and band were “always the best part of the day,” according to Marshall, who decided to pursue music education so she could share that passion with others.“Music can be an emotional outlet for students or an escape from their everyday routine,” she said. “It also opens the door to the world. We study different cultures and different historical eras through music without even realizing that we’re doing it.”Marshall has been part of the Thornton String Quartet, Symphonic Band and Kearney Symphony Orchestra during her time at UNK, and she’s currently student teaching at Kearney Public Schools. She’ll start her professional career as an elementary music teacher at KPS next fall.“I hope to lead generations of children into having a love and appreciation for music in all aspects,” Marshall said. “I hope to open doors to things that they did not know were possible, whether that be other cultures, future career paths or just a deep emotional connection to music.“Music is for everyone; they don’t need to master an instrument to be part of it.”For more information on the UNK String Project, contact Rogoff at 308-865-8619 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rogoffnt@unk.edu">rogoffnt@unk.edu</a>.

‘Music is for everyone’: UNK String Project inspires young performers, future teachers

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department’s&nbsp;Walk to Health&nbsp;program is offering the “Holiday Hop America” Challenge starting December 2nd through December 30th. This free walking program is open to residents of all ages in the SWNPHD nine-county health district.

“Our Holiday Hop Challenge is a good opportunity for people to get inspired to get their steps in to increase their physical activity,” states Sarah Minnick, Program Manager at Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD). “Walking is a fun and beneficial way to spend time with family and friends.”

Through a grant provided by Community Hospital of McCook, Walk to Health participants track their steps with&nbsp;Be Well&nbsp;- a fun and easy-to-use wellness platform. Participants can use the web or mobile app to create an account and connect a device for tracking, recognition, and encouragement. Paper step-tracking forms are also available.

Southwest Nebraska Public Health DepartmentSouthwest Nebraska Public Health Department’s&nbsp;Walk to Health&nbsp;program is offering the “Holiday Hop America” Challenge starting December 2nd through December 30th. This free walking program is open to residents of all ages in the SWNPHD nine-county health district.“Our Holiday Hop Challenge is a good opportunity for people to get inspired to get their steps in to increase their physical activity,” states Sarah Minnick, Program Manager at Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD). “Walking is a fun and beneficial way to spend time with family and friends.”Through a grant provided by Community Hospital of McCook, Walk to Health participants track their steps with&nbsp;Be Well&nbsp;- a fun and easy-to-use wellness platform. Participants can use the web or mobile app to create an account and connect a device for tracking, recognition, and encouragement. Paper step-tracking forms are also available.To register for the challenge, type&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://walktohealth.thrives.app/">walktohealth.thrives</a>.app&nbsp;into a browser.&nbsp; Log in to your account or Create an Account.&nbsp; You may also download the Be Well Health App from the App Store or Google Play. Create an account online and join the “Holiday Hop” challenge. You will be able to connect your fitness device to track activity automatically, or you can manually enter your daily steps into the app or on the paper step journal. Instructions are available on the SWNPHD website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.swhealth.ne.gov/">swhealth.ne.gov</a>.“Everyone who completes the challenge can receive a free gift from Dundy County Hospital” explains Minnick. “We are grateful for their partnership that is benefiting the community by encouraging physical activity to reduce chronic disease among residents of southwest Nebraska.”If you do not want to use internet access, you may register for the challenge by stopping in at Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department, 404 West 10th&nbsp;Street (1 block north of Arby’s) in McCook or 418 N Spruce in Ogallala. You can also email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@swhealth.ne.gov">info@swhealth.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or find information by following SWNPHD on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. SWNPHD serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties.