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.

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.

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.

 Holiday Hop Challenge Starts December 2nd

North Platte, Neb. - The Salvation Army is gearing up for the next few weeks as the group heads into their busy time of the month with Christmas quickly approaching. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers to ring at different locations throughout North Platte and if you have time this week, it is supposed to be a very nice week to get out and ring. If you would like to sign up and ring, <a href="https://www.registertoring.com/">click here.&nbsp;</a>

Last week was the Thanksgiving box distribution for families who signed up and this year the group doubled the number of boxes compared to last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We were able to give out almost 300 boxes of food. Each food box had a turkey, and it was like a full bird turkey, they had stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, you know, some cranberries, whatever, whatever you can really think of that would go on. You would see on the Thanksgiving table.  We were able to help out almost 300 families this year," said Camon Landry. "I think last year we were around 160,170ish. So yeah, pretty close to doubling what we were able to do last year."&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Camon Landry for their weekly conversation. 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;North Platte, Neb. - The Salvation Army is gearing up for the next few weeks as the group heads into their busy time of the month with Christmas quickly approaching. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers to ring at different locations throughout North Platte and if you have time this week, it is supposed to be a very nice week to get out and ring. If you would like to sign up and ring, <a href="https://www.registertoring.com/">click here.&nbsp;</a>Last week was the Thanksgiving box distribution for families who signed up and this year the group doubled the number of boxes compared to last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We were able to give out almost 300 boxes of food. Each food box had a turkey, and it was like a full bird turkey, they had stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, you know, some cranberries, whatever, whatever you can really think of that would go on. You would see on the Thanksgiving table. We were able to help out almost 300 families this year," said Camon Landry. "I think last year we were around 160,170ish. So yeah, pretty close to doubling what we were able to do last year."&nbsp;On Tuesday, Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Camon Landry for their weekly conversation. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Salvation Army: Thanksgiving box distribution recap, volunteers needed to ring 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=ifz35-175b040-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

(Audio) Salvation Army: Thanksgiving box distribution recap, volunteers needed to ring and more

Nebraska Department of Transportation

Dec. 2, 2024 (North Platte, Neb.) — Weather permitting, an overnight closure will be in place Wednesday, Dec. 4, on Francis Street at the Jeffers Street Intersection, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.   

The east and west legs of the Francis Street and Jeffers Street intersection will be closed for both eastbound and westbound traffic beginning at 6:00 p.m. and are anticipated to be open by 7:00 a.m. Motorists are advised to utilize alternate routes during this time-period. 

Paulsen, Inc. of Cozad is the contractor for this project. The closure is for installation of new traffic signals at the Francis Street and Jeffers Street intersection. Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down.

Nebraska Department of TransportationDec. 2, 2024 (North Platte, Neb.) — Weather permitting, an overnight closure will be in place Wednesday, Dec. 4, on Francis Street at the Jeffers Street Intersection, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. The east and west legs of the Francis Street and Jeffers Street intersection will be closed for both eastbound and westbound traffic beginning at 6:00 p.m. and are anticipated to be open by 7:00 a.m. Motorists are advised to utilize alternate routes during this time-period. Paulsen, Inc. of Cozad is the contractor for this project. The closure is for installation of new traffic signals at the Francis Street and Jeffers Street intersection. Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down.

Overnight Closure of Francis Street in North Platte 

North Platte, Ne - The Lincoln, Logan, McPherson County Extension Office recently announced the formation of a "First Lego Robotics League". According to Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson, the league programs and codes robots to go through obsicle courses. Jacobson said "theres a team of young people that programs and codes a robot to go through an obstacle course. Every year the state has a competition in Lincoln along with competitions around the state; but there's a different obstacle every year and you just kinda work towards as a team figuring out how to program your robot to successfully go through this obstacle course."

Nick Newland, a local 12 year old recently signed up for the team joined Jacobson in the Eagle Media Studio to talk about the new program, Nick says, "I really like doing Legos and my mom told me about 4-H and that they have a robotics class and I was really excited because I'm really into coding and doing robotics and Legos and she told me that was for Legos too, and I was really excited when she said she could sign up."

(LISTEN TO FULL INTERVIEW HERE, Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)

Many think 4H is all about arts, crafts and animals, but according to Jacobson, "our main wheel-house is about finding out what our youth are interested in and how we can essentially get them to where we want them to go, and to grow in a positive way and be able to thrive in today's world. You know there's a whole lot of jobs in that realm that haven't even been invented yet and this is a great way for you to get their toes in and be prepared when they step out post high school when they leave and they go to college or whatever they're gonna do post high school. Then they have that experience a little little bit already so they're just that much more prepared to take whatever life throws at them. A lot of people pointed out that technology is incorporated into any job that you were going into and that's really kind of where our focus is,&nbsp; just looking at the big picture and seeing how we can help prepare our youth for right now that will help them in their future".&nbsp;

For more information, reach out to Caitlyn Jacobson at&nbsp;caitlyn.jacobson@unl.edu

North Platte, Ne - The Lincoln, Logan, McPherson County Extension Office recently announced the formation of a "First Lego Robotics League". According to Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson, the league programs and codes robots to go through obsicle courses. Jacobson said "theres a team of young people that programs and codes a robot to go through an obstacle course. Every year the state has a competition in Lincoln along with competitions around the state; but there's a different obstacle every year and you just kinda work towards as a team figuring out how to program your robot to successfully go through this obstacle course."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733157608985.jpeg" alt="4H Nebraska Robotics League (photo courtesty of&nbsp; UNL Extension)" />
 <figcaption>4H Nebraska Robotics League (photo courtesty of&nbsp; UNL Extension)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nick Newland, a local 12 year old recently signed up for the team joined Jacobson in the Eagle Media Studio to talk about the new program, Nick says, "I really like doing Legos and my mom told me about 4-H and that they have a robotics class and I was really excited because I'm really into coding and doing robotics and Legos and she told me that was for Legos too, and I was really excited when she said she could sign up."(LISTEN TO FULL INTERVIEW HERE, Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)<div><iframe title="4H Extension Offering Robotics Team" 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=3ibmq-1758ea9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Many think 4H is all about arts, crafts and animals, but according to Jacobson, "our main wheel-house is about finding out what our youth are interested in and how we can essentially get them to where we want them to go, and to grow in a positive way and be able to thrive in today's world. You know there's a whole lot of jobs in that realm that haven't even been invented yet and this is a great way for you to get their toes in and be prepared when they step out post high school when they leave and they go to college or whatever they're gonna do post high school. Then they have that experience a little little bit already so they're just that much more prepared to take whatever life throws at them. A lot of people pointed out that technology is incorporated into any job that you were going into and that's really kind of where our focus is,&nbsp; just looking at the big picture and seeing how we can help prepare our youth for right now that will help them in their future".&nbsp;For more information, reach out to Caitlyn Jacobson at&nbsp;caitlyn.jacobson@unl.edu

(Podcast) 4H Extension Offering Robotics Team

Colby James Nichols, 23, Gothenburg and Savannah Ray Peterson, 23, Gothenburg

Colby James Nichols, 23, Gothenburg and Savannah Ray Peterson, 23, Gothenburg

Marriage Licenses For Lincoln County (Week of November 25th)

Stay up to date with our North Platte Kubota local podcasts, here are our recent interviews.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Stay up to date with our North Platte Kubota local podcasts, here are our recent interviews.<div><iframe title="The Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6r4r9-72e7e2-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=ff6d00&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Kubota Podcasts

&nbsp;"Reflections of the King"-The Elvis Tribute Show to be held at the Fox Theatre on Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://northplattecommunityplayhouse.com/" target="_blank">northplattecommunityplayhouse.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Playhouse from 1-5 p.m. (Monday-Friday).&nbsp; VIP tickets in the first 5 rows are $30 and remaining seating is $25.

Joseph Hall, born in 1984, has been paying tribute to the legacy of Elvis Presley since 2006.&nbsp; He starred on America's Got Talent in 2008, making 6 TV appearances, viewed by more than 90 million people and placing as one of the top 10 finalists!&nbsp; Joseph Hall has performed all over the world, from Las Vegas to Porthcawl, Wales.&nbsp; He won many awards throughout his young career including the "Spirit of Elvis" award.&nbsp;

 Joseph has worked with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Legends in Concert, and has officially been recognized as one of the top Elvis tribute artists in the world today.&nbsp; Hall completed 6 smash seasons in Branson, Missouri.&nbsp;"My goal is to capture the essence of Elvis Presley, to pay tribute to him with the utmost respect to his legacy, his music, his image and, above all else, his fans."&nbsp; Joseph Hall celebrates Elvis Presley by gyrating, swiveling his hips, and singing the king's hits from the 50's, 60's, and 70's.&nbsp; A MUST-SEE family-friendly show!&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;"Reflections of the King"-The Elvis Tribute Show to be held at the Fox Theatre on Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m.Tickets can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://northplattecommunityplayhouse.com/" target="_blank">northplattecommunityplayhouse.com</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Playhouse from 1-5 p.m. (Monday-Friday).&nbsp; VIP tickets in the first 5 rows are $30 and remaining seating is $25.Joseph Hall, born in 1984, has been paying tribute to the legacy of Elvis Presley since 2006.&nbsp; He starred on America's Got Talent in 2008, making 6 TV appearances, viewed by more than 90 million people and placing as one of the top 10 finalists!&nbsp; Joseph Hall has performed all over the world, from Las Vegas to Porthcawl, Wales.&nbsp; He won many awards throughout his young career including the "Spirit of Elvis" award.&nbsp; Joseph has worked with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Legends in Concert, and has officially been recognized as one of the top Elvis tribute artists in the world today.&nbsp; Hall completed 6 smash seasons in Branson, Missouri.&nbsp;"My goal is to capture the essence of Elvis Presley, to pay tribute to him with the utmost respect to his legacy, his music, his image and, above all else, his fans."&nbsp; Joseph Hall celebrates Elvis Presley by gyrating, swiveling his hips, and singing the king's hits from the 50's, 60's, and 70's.&nbsp; A MUST-SEE family-friendly show!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elvis Tribute Show coming to North Platte in December at the Fox Theatre

North Platte, Neb. - The 11th Guardians of the Children's Toy Drive is off to a fantastic start with the community coming together to donate toys. Over 30 drop off locations throughout North Platte for those who wish to donate a toy. Toys need to be unopened when donating. The GOC will be collecting toys until December 7th. Click here to learn where all the drop off locations are.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Tuna to give us an update on the toy drive, about upcoming events the GOC is hosting, how Tuna got involved with GOC and so much more. 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;North Platte, Neb. - The 11th Guardians of the Children's Toy Drive is off to a fantastic start with the community coming together to donate toys. Over 30 drop off locations throughout North Platte for those who wish to donate a toy. Toys need to be unopened when donating. The GOC will be collecting toys until December 7th. Click here to learn where all the drop off locations are.&nbsp;Earlier in the week, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Tuna to give us an update on the toy drive, about upcoming events the GOC is hosting, how Tuna got involved with GOC and so much more. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Guardians of the Children Toy Drive off to a fantastic start, other holiday events coming up" 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=h2rjf-1750b41-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) Guardians of the Children Toy Drive off to a fantastic start, other holiday events coming up

Omaha, Neb. - The Board of Directors of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.34 per share on the company’s common stock, payable Dec. 30, 2024, to shareholders of record Dec. 9, 2024.

Union Pacific has paid dividends on its common stock for 125 consecutive years.

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.

Union PacificOmaha, Neb. - The Board of Directors of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.34 per share on the company’s common stock, payable Dec. 30, 2024, to shareholders of record Dec. 9, 2024.Union Pacific has paid dividends on its common stock for 125 consecutive years.<h2>About Union Pacific</h2>Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.

Union Pacific Corporation Declares Fourth Quarter 2024 Dividend

North Platte, Neb. - Great Plains Health has joined the annual &nbsp;statewide effort organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) to heighten &nbsp;awareness of lifesaving lung cancer screening during November, Lung Cancer&nbsp; Awareness month.&nbsp;

Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in Nebraska for both men and women. In 2024,&nbsp; the American Cancer Society estimates 1,190 new cases and 700 deaths from lung&nbsp; cancer in Nebraska. The stage of diagnosis strongly affects outcomes. The most recent&nbsp; Nebraska data indicates that the 5-year relative survival rates for lung cancer are 63%&nbsp; for early-stage diagnoses, while rates for later-stage cases fall to 35% for regional&nbsp; diagnoses and 3% for distant diagnoses. The American Lung Association reported that&nbsp; in 2023, only 3.7% of Nebraskans at high risk for lung cancer were screened.&nbsp;

"When we detect cancer early in stage one or two, the treatment approach is completely&nbsp; different," stated Dr. Molina, Pulmonologist at Great Plains Health. "Early detection in&nbsp; the beginning stages significantly improves quality of life for our patients. Screening is&nbsp; our best tool in this fight - it's always better to prevent or catch something early rather&nbsp; than late in the game."&nbsp;

Screening for lung cancer with a yearly low-dose CT scan for those at high risk can&nbsp; reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20% by detecting tumors at early stages&nbsp; when they are more likely to be curable according to the American Lung Association&nbsp;&nbsp;

(ALA). Lung cancer screening is recommended by the CDC for people ages 50-80&nbsp; years with a 20+ pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the&nbsp; past 15 years. It is critical that we spread the word that in order to Breathe Easy,&nbsp; Nebraskans should get screened for lung cancer.&nbsp;

Based in North Platte, Nebraska, Great Plains Health is a fully accredited, 116-bed &nbsp;acute-care regional medical center serving western and central Nebraska, northern &nbsp;Kansas and southern South Dakota. With 90 physicians representing nearly 30 medical&nbsp;

specialties, the Great Plains Health system offers advanced health care, including heart &nbsp;and vascular, cancer, and orthopedic surgery services. Great Plains Health is a Level III &nbsp;trauma center, and all of its emergency department physicians are residency-trained &nbsp;and board-certified in emergency medicine. The system employs approximately 1,200 &nbsp;employees and serves a geographic area spanning more than 67,000 square miles. &nbsp;The hospital is accredited by the Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ) &nbsp;and is home to an American College of Surgeons-accredited cancer center and Level II &nbsp;bariatric surgery program. For more information, visit gphealth.org.&nbsp;

The Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) is a nonprofit organization that serves all 93&nbsp; counties in Nebraska. NC2's membership and partners include health systems,&nbsp; providers, associations, cancer survivors and individuals. Together we aspire to achieve&nbsp; our mission of connecting people and resources to strengthen cancer prevention,&nbsp; detection, and quality of life in Nebraska. NC2 works towards implementing the goals&nbsp; and objectives of our strategic plan. Our vision is to ultimately Conquer Cancer&nbsp; Together.

Great Plains HealthNorth Platte, Neb. - Great Plains Health has joined the annual &nbsp;statewide effort organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) to heighten &nbsp;awareness of lifesaving lung cancer screening during November, Lung Cancer&nbsp; Awareness month.&nbsp;Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in Nebraska for both men and women. In 2024,&nbsp; the American Cancer Society estimates 1,190 new cases and 700 deaths from lung&nbsp; cancer in Nebraska. The stage of diagnosis strongly affects outcomes. The most recent&nbsp; Nebraska data indicates that the 5-year relative survival rates for lung cancer are 63%&nbsp; for early-stage diagnoses, while rates for later-stage cases fall to 35% for regional&nbsp; diagnoses and 3% for distant diagnoses. The American Lung Association reported that&nbsp; in 2023, only 3.7% of Nebraskans at high risk for lung cancer were screened.&nbsp;"When we detect cancer early in stage one or two, the treatment approach is completely&nbsp; different," stated Dr. Molina, Pulmonologist at Great Plains Health. "Early detection in&nbsp; the beginning stages significantly improves quality of life for our patients. Screening is&nbsp; our best tool in this fight - it's always better to prevent or catch something early rather&nbsp; than late in the game."&nbsp;Screening for lung cancer with a yearly low-dose CT scan for those at high risk can&nbsp; reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20% by detecting tumors at early stages&nbsp; when they are more likely to be curable according to the American Lung Association&nbsp;&nbsp;(ALA). Lung cancer screening is recommended by the CDC for people ages 50-80&nbsp; years with a 20+ pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the&nbsp; past 15 years. It is critical that we spread the word that in order to Breathe Easy,&nbsp; Nebraskans should get screened for lung cancer.&nbsp;About Great Plains Health&nbsp;Based in North Platte, Nebraska, Great Plains Health is a fully accredited, 116-bed &nbsp;acute-care regional medical center serving western and central Nebraska, northern &nbsp;Kansas and southern South Dakota. With 90 physicians representing nearly 30 medical&nbsp;specialties, the Great Plains Health system offers advanced health care, including heart &nbsp;and vascular, cancer, and orthopedic surgery services. Great Plains Health is a Level III &nbsp;trauma center, and all of its emergency department physicians are residency-trained &nbsp;and board-certified in emergency medicine. The system employs approximately 1,200 &nbsp;employees and serves a geographic area spanning more than 67,000 square miles. &nbsp;The hospital is accredited by the Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ) &nbsp;and is home to an American College of Surgeons-accredited cancer center and Level II &nbsp;bariatric surgery program. For more information, visit gphealth.org.&nbsp;About Nebraska Cancer Coalition&nbsp;The Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) is a nonprofit organization that serves all 93&nbsp; counties in Nebraska. NC2's membership and partners include health systems,&nbsp; providers, associations, cancer survivors and individuals. Together we aspire to achieve&nbsp; our mission of connecting people and resources to strengthen cancer prevention,&nbsp; detection, and quality of life in Nebraska. NC2 works towards implementing the goals&nbsp; and objectives of our strategic plan. Our vision is to ultimately Conquer Cancer&nbsp; Together.

Great Plains Health Partners with Nebraska Cancer Coalition to Promote Life Saving Lung Cancer Screenings 

The North Platte Community College music department will ring in the holiday season with a “Holiday Concert” Dec. 4.

The Knightly Singers and the Jazzy Knights will perform an arrangement of Christmas favorites. A reception will the follow in the fireplace area.

The concert is free and open to the public. It will begin at 7 p.m. in the McDonald-Belton Theater on the NPCC South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd.

Jennifer FullerNPCCThe North Platte Community College music department will ring in the holiday season with a “Holiday Concert” Dec. 4.The Knightly Singers and the Jazzy Knights will perform an arrangement of Christmas favorites. A reception will the follow in the fireplace area.The concert is free and open to the public. It will begin at 7 p.m. in the McDonald-Belton Theater on the NPCC South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd.

Public invited to NPCC holiday concert

The 2024 North Platte Elks Hoop Shoot is back on December 8th at Adams Middle School. The event is for boys and girls ages 8-13 and students will shoot 25 free throws. Students who win each division will move the ranks to compete for a chance to go to Chicago for the finals. The girls shoot at 1:00pm and boys shoot at 2:00pm. The event is free for those who want to participate.&nbsp;

Earlier in the Week Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Lenny Hassel from the Elks lodge about the event. 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 2024 North Platte Elks Hoop Shoot is back on December 8th at Adams Middle School. The event is for boys and girls ages 8-13 and students will shoot 25 free throws. Students who win each division will move the ranks to compete for a chance to go to Chicago for the finals. The girls shoot at 1:00pm and boys shoot at 2:00pm. The event is free for those who want to participate.&nbsp;Earlier in the Week Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Lenny Hassel from the Elks lodge about the event. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) 2024 North Platte Elks Hoop Shoot taking place in Dec." 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=ubk9b-1750ac2-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) 2024 North Platte Elks Hoop Shoot taking place in December

(Lincoln, Neb.) – The Nebraska Aeronautics Commission, working alongside the Nebraska Department of Transportation-Division of Aeronautics, approved state-funded federal matching grants and state aid only grants of over $4.5 million on October 18. The federal matching grants support projects totaling over $93 million. 

This record-setting funding is a direct result of the passage of LB 727 and LB 138 by the Nebraska Legislature during the 2023 regular session.  These bills were supported by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, the Nebraska Association of Airport Officials and the Nebraska Aviation Council and will enhance Nebraska’s airports statewide, supporting the vitality of communities of all sizes. 

“The work that the Aeronautics Commission has done continues to advance the vision of One Nebraska, where our neighbors, friends and family have access to safe and reliable travel,” said Governor Pillen. “This funding helps sustain our communities with economic development, access to  medical care and agricultural uses. This is just a small example of what state funds can do to support our communities. By covering all 6 regions of the state we move forward together, because our state is better together. 

The Commission approved funding for commercial service airports, including Eppley Airfield in Omaha and Central Nebraska Regional in Grand Island along with general aviation airports like, Crete Municipal Airport, Pender Municipal and Thomas County Airport in Thedford. The historic funding is being used for airports to update both infrastructure and planning documents and expand regional airports.

  A few examples of the 36 projects funded include:

Bill G. Ray Field in Chappell – Billy G. Ray Field’s asphalt runway surface is over 30 years old and in need of rehabilitation. It is extremely important to the region, not just for economic development, but to provide essential services like healthcare, education and emergency services to rural communities.

North Platte Regional Airport – Being the only primary airport within a 14,000 square mile radius and serving 15 counties, the Regional Airport needed a modernized terminal. The new terminal will meet the airport's capacity, security, accessibility, and sustainability needs, while providing passengers with an enhanced experience including jet bridge boarding and food and beverage options.

Blair Executive Airport – In recent years the Executive Airport has made huge strides in upgrading its facility as a relief airport for Eppley Airfield in Omaha. The funding helps them become a hub for economic development by increasing corporate traffic and creates job growth for aircraft maintenance, private pilots, and corporate jet centers. 

Nebraska Department of Transportation(Lincoln, Neb.) – The Nebraska Aeronautics Commission, working alongside the Nebraska Department of Transportation-Division of Aeronautics, approved state-funded federal matching grants and state aid only grants of over $4.5 million on October 18. The federal matching grants support projects totaling over $93 million. This record-setting funding is a direct result of the passage of LB 727 and LB 138 by the Nebraska Legislature during the 2023 regular session. These bills were supported by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, the Nebraska Association of Airport Officials and the Nebraska Aviation Council and will enhance Nebraska’s airports statewide, supporting the vitality of communities of all sizes. “The work that the Aeronautics Commission has done continues to advance the vision of One Nebraska, where our neighbors, friends and family have access to safe and reliable travel,” said Governor Pillen. “This funding helps sustain our communities with economic development, access to medical care and agricultural uses. This is just a small example of what state funds can do to support our communities. By covering all 6 regions of the state we move forward together, because our state is better together. The Commission approved funding for commercial service airports, including Eppley Airfield in Omaha and Central Nebraska Regional in Grand Island along with general aviation airports like, Crete Municipal Airport, Pender Municipal and Thomas County Airport in Thedford. The historic funding is being used for airports to update both infrastructure and planning documents and expand regional airports. A few examples of the 36 projects funded include:Bill G. Ray Field in Chappell – Billy G. Ray Field’s asphalt runway surface is over 30 years old and in need of rehabilitation. It is extremely important to the region, not just for economic development, but to provide essential services like healthcare, education and emergency services to rural communities.North Platte Regional Airport – Being the only primary airport within a 14,000 square mile radius and serving 15 counties, the Regional Airport needed a modernized terminal. The new terminal will meet the airport's capacity, security, accessibility, and sustainability needs, while providing passengers with an enhanced experience including jet bridge boarding and food and beverage options.Blair Executive Airport – In recent years the Executive Airport has made huge strides in upgrading its facility as a relief airport for Eppley Airfield in Omaha. The funding helps them become a hub for economic development by increasing corporate traffic and creates job growth for aircraft maintenance, private pilots, and corporate jet centers.

Nebraska Aeronautics Commission, NDOT Aeronautics  Announces Grant Allocations

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-business-hall-of-fame-to-gain-five-new-members-including-two-former-state-lawmakers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Two former state lawmakers, an Omaha couple that founded a senior home care service and the head of a Lincoln facility that won the first-ever “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” contest are the latest inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.

The 2025 honorees: John Stinner of Gering, a two-term Nebraska legislator and a banker; Matt Williams of Gothenburg, also a banker and former two-term state senator; Paul and Lori Hogan of Home Instead, and Mike Boyle of Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. of Lincoln.

The five will officially become hall-of-famers during a&nbsp;<a href="https://web.nechamber.com/events/NebraskaBusiness%20Hall%20of%20Fame%20Banquet-666/details" target="_blank">Jan. 30 event</a>&nbsp;at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.

“This year’s honorees truly represent the entrepreneurial and innovative leadership that is so essential to Nebraska’s growth and success,” said Bryan Slone, president of the statewide chamber.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://business.unl.edu/outreach/awards/nebraska-business-hall-of-fame/" target="_blank">Nebraska Business Hall of Fame</a>&nbsp;was established in 1992 by the chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business to recognize business leaders whose contributions to the state’s economy, job opportunities and business environment are deserving of public acclaim.

Nominations are sought each year from the general business community, statewide associations and academia.&nbsp;

More than<a href="https://business.unl.edu/outreach/awards/nebraska-business-hall-of-fame/" target="_blank">&nbsp;135 business leaders&nbsp;</a>are in the hall.

“The impact this group has had on all sectors of Nebraska business is tremendous and their determination and grit are admirable,” said Kathy Farrell, dean of the UNL College of Business.

<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/ne-business-hall-of-fame-2025-honorees.html" target="_blank">The honorees</a>:

Stinner,&nbsp;of Western States Bank in Gering, is a Pennsylvania native who was a member of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s 1970 and 1971 National Championship football teams. He completed his bachelor’s degree at UNL in 1973 and two years later earned a master’s degree&nbsp; in economics.

Stinner moved to western Nebraska when he and a local group of investors opened a bank in Gering. Scotts Bluff County has been home to his family for more than 26 years, and, according to a biography provided by the chamber, the bank he started is now a major employer in the region, with more than a dozen locations in Nebraska.

He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2014 and served two terms.

Williams,&nbsp;of Flatwater Bank in Gothenburg, was born and raised in Gothenburg, where his family was involved with banking and ranching. He received his undergraduate degree and law degree from the University of Nebraska.

Williams grew the family banking business and became chair of both the Nebraska Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association. He represented central Nebraska in the Legislature for eight years, receiving the 2022 Friend of Education Award from the School Administrators Association for introducing legislation to make schools safer by creating the Safe2Help call line.

His service includes a chair position on the Board of Directors of Nebraska Innovation Campus.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Hogans&nbsp;co-founded Home Instead in 1994 and grew it into a worldwide leading provider of home care services for seniors, according to a biography provided by the chamber.

The network includes more than 1,200 independently owned and operated franchise offices across 14 countries. In 2021, the business merged with Honor Technology Inc. and continues to operate under the Home Instead banner.

Lori Hogan, a former Miss Nebraska USA and graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, has served on numerous boards including the Autism Action Partnership and Nebraska Family Alliance.&nbsp;

Paul Hogan is a member of the World Dementia Council and co-authored a USA Today bestseller, “States of Senior Care.”

Boyle,&nbsp;a UNL graduate, started at the Lincoln-based Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. as a process engineer who, among other duties, designed robot welding cells and brought new jet ski personal watercraft and motorcycles into production.&nbsp;

Promotions led to his 2022 selection as president and CEO, becoming the first non-Japanese president in the history of Kawasaki’s global operations.

The R211 subway car manufactured at the Lincoln Kawasaki plant took the win in the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/subway-car-takes-the-win-in-coolest-thing-made-in-nebraska-contest/">inaugural 2022 “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska”&nbsp;</a>competition, which is sponsored by the chamber and has become an increasingly popular annual contest.

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-business-hall-of-fame-to-gain-five-new-members-including-two-former-state-lawmakers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Two former state lawmakers, an Omaha couple that founded a senior home care service and the head of a Lincoln facility that won the first-ever “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” contest are the latest inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.The 2025 honorees: John Stinner of Gering, a two-term Nebraska legislator and a banker; Matt Williams of Gothenburg, also a banker and former two-term state senator; Paul and Lori Hogan of Home Instead, and Mike Boyle of Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. of Lincoln.The five will officially become hall-of-famers during a&nbsp;<a href="https://web.nechamber.com/events/NebraskaBusiness%20Hall%20of%20Fame%20Banquet-666/details" target="_blank">Jan. 30 event</a>&nbsp;at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.“This year’s honorees truly represent the entrepreneurial and innovative leadership that is so essential to Nebraska’s growth and success,” said Bryan Slone, president of the statewide chamber.The&nbsp;<a href="https://business.unl.edu/outreach/awards/nebraska-business-hall-of-fame/" target="_blank">Nebraska Business Hall of Fame</a>&nbsp;was established in 1992 by the chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business to recognize business leaders whose contributions to the state’s economy, job opportunities and business environment are deserving of public acclaim.Nominations are sought each year from the general business community, statewide associations and academia.&nbsp;More than<a href="https://business.unl.edu/outreach/awards/nebraska-business-hall-of-fame/" target="_blank">&nbsp;135 business leaders&nbsp;</a>are in the hall.“The impact this group has had on all sectors of Nebraska business is tremendous and their determination and grit are admirable,” said Kathy Farrell, dean of the UNL College of Business.<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/ne-business-hall-of-fame-2025-honorees.html" target="_blank">The honorees</a>:Stinner,&nbsp;of Western States Bank in Gering, is a Pennsylvania native who was a member of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s 1970 and 1971 National Championship football teams. He completed his bachelor’s degree at UNL in 1973 and two years later earned a master’s degree&nbsp; in economics.Stinner moved to western Nebraska when he and a local group of investors opened a bank in Gering. Scotts Bluff County has been home to his family for more than 26 years, and, according to a biography provided by the chamber, the bank he started is now a major employer in the region, with more than a dozen locations in Nebraska.He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2014 and served two terms.Williams,&nbsp;of Flatwater Bank in Gothenburg, was born and raised in Gothenburg, where his family was involved with banking and ranching. He received his undergraduate degree and law degree from the University of Nebraska.Williams grew the family banking business and became chair of both the Nebraska Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association. He represented central Nebraska in the Legislature for eight years, receiving the 2022 Friend of Education Award from the School Administrators Association for introducing legislation to make schools safer by creating the Safe2Help call line.His service includes a chair position on the Board of Directors of Nebraska Innovation Campus.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Hogans&nbsp;co-founded Home Instead in 1994 and grew it into a worldwide leading provider of home care services for seniors, according to a biography provided by the chamber.The network includes more than 1,200 independently owned and operated franchise offices across 14 countries. In 2021, the business merged with Honor Technology Inc. and continues to operate under the Home Instead banner.Lori Hogan, a former Miss Nebraska USA and graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, has served on numerous boards including the Autism Action Partnership and Nebraska Family Alliance.&nbsp;Paul Hogan is a member of the World Dementia Council and co-authored a USA Today bestseller, “States of Senior Care.”Boyle,&nbsp;a UNL graduate, started at the Lincoln-based Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. as a process engineer who, among other duties, designed robot welding cells and brought new jet ski personal watercraft and motorcycles into production.&nbsp;Promotions led to his 2022 selection as president and CEO, becoming the first non-Japanese president in the history of Kawasaki’s global operations.The R211 subway car manufactured at the Lincoln Kawasaki plant took the win in the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/subway-car-takes-the-win-in-coolest-thing-made-in-nebraska-contest/">inaugural 2022 “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska”&nbsp;</a>competition, which is sponsored by the chamber and has become an increasingly popular annual contest.

Nebraska Business Hall of Fame to gain five new members, including two former state lawmakers

The Salvation Army has been busy with the Holiday season underway. On Tuesday, Thanksgiving boxes were distributed to those who signed up. Volunteers are needed for ringing the bells and so much more. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Camon and Chaslyn Landry from the Salvation Army 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 Salvation Army has been busy with the Holiday season underway. On Tuesday, Thanksgiving boxes were distributed to those who signed up. Volunteers are needed for ringing the bells and so much more. &nbsp;On Tuesday, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Camon and Chaslyn Landry from the Salvation Army about everything that is going on. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Salvation Army: Ringing Volunteers needed, recap Kettle kickoff event 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=b5tmm-1750a91-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) Salvation Army: Ringing Volunteers needed, recap Kettle kickoff event and more!

North Platte, Neb., November 26, 2024 – Great Plains Health patients who hold a Medicare Advantage Plan can now easily switch to Traditional Medicare, thanks to a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and guaranteed issue rights granted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and confirmed by the <a href="https://doi.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/NR191124.pdf">Nebraska Department of Insurance</a>.

The SEP applies to Medicare Advantage plan holders receiving care at Great Plains Health from the following insurers:

This SEP includes guaranteed issue rights for a Medigap plan, allowing plan holders to disenroll from their Medicare Advantage plan and enroll in Traditional Medicare (also referred to as Original Medicare) without penalty or medical underwriting.

Key details about the SEP are as follows:

The SEP is specific to Medicare Advantage plan holders. The standard Medicare Open Enrollment period, which ends on December 7, 2024, still applies to those not enrolled in Medicare Advantage.

As first shared in May, the Great Plains Health Innovation Network (GPHIN), the clinically-integrated network that includes GPHealth clinics and many independent practices in the area, will no longer be in-network for any Medicare Advantage plan, including the three plans that are currently accepted at Great Plains Health, effective January 1, 2025. This transition is largely because of concerns with delays and denials in care.&nbsp;

“We believe it is in the best interest of our community to no longer accept Medicare Advantage plans. Our Chief Nursing Officer’s parents had the option to be on a Medicare Advantage plan. She met with an independent insurance agent and helped her parents enroll in Traditional Medicare. As a nurse, she has firsthand knowledge of the delays and denials of care with Medicare Advantage. This change saved her parents money and provides peace of mind. We are treating our family members the same way we want our community to be treated,” said Dr. Narayana Koduri, Chief Medical Officer, Great Plains Health; Ivan Mitchell, CEO, Great Plains Health; and Lindsay Pedersen, Chairman, Great Plains Health Board of Directors.

Railroad retirees have a specific option for coverage – <a href="https://yourtracktohealth.com/Common/PDFViewer.aspx?fileName=/PDF_Files/Retirement/RME-Medicare_and_GA-23111PlanF.pdf#zoom=100">GA-23111 PLAN F</a> – an employer-sponsored Medicare supplement offered by Iron Road Healthcare and UnitedHealthcare. This plan will be accepted at Great Plains Health in 2025, with open enrollment running from November 1 to December 31, 2024. Note that GA-23111 PLAN F is not a shoppable plan.

Emergency care will always be available to all patients, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. In 2025, Great Plains Health will remain in-network with two D-SNP plans: Molina D-SNP and Nebraska Total Care WellCare D-SNP.

Great Plains Health recommends Traditional Medicare and GA-23111 PLAN F for railroad retirees. Traditional Medicare is always accepted at Great Plains Health and other facilities across Nebraska and the United States.

For more information, including FAQs and resources, visit <a href="about:blank">gphealth.org/yourlocalcare</a>.

Great Plains HealthNorth Platte, Neb., November 26, 2024 – Great Plains Health patients who hold a Medicare Advantage Plan can now easily switch to Traditional Medicare, thanks to a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and guaranteed issue rights granted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and confirmed by the <a href="https://doi.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/NR191124.pdf">Nebraska Department of Insurance</a>.The SEP applies to Medicare Advantage plan holders receiving care at Great Plains Health from the following insurers:<ul>
 <li>Aetna</li><li>Centene Health/Nebraska Total Care</li><li>Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Nebraska</li>
 </ul>This SEP includes guaranteed issue rights for a Medigap plan, allowing plan holders to disenroll from their Medicare Advantage plan and enroll in Traditional Medicare (also referred to as Original Medicare) without penalty or medical underwriting.Key details about the SEP are as follows:<ul>
 <li>The SEP applies to patients assigned to, currently receiving care from, or who have received care in the past three months from a Great Plains Health provider or clinic.</li><li>Most affected plan holders have until January 31, 2025, to make the switch.</li><li>Those wishing to explore their options should contact their local insurance agent, Medicare at 1.800.MEDICARE, or the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 1.877.839.2675 as soon as possible to make their switch.</li>
 </ul>The SEP is specific to Medicare Advantage plan holders. The standard Medicare Open Enrollment period, which ends on December 7, 2024, still applies to those not enrolled in Medicare Advantage.As first shared in May, the Great Plains Health Innovation Network (GPHIN), the clinically-integrated network that includes GPHealth clinics and many independent practices in the area, will no longer be in-network for any Medicare Advantage plan, including the three plans that are currently accepted at Great Plains Health, effective January 1, 2025. This transition is largely because of concerns with delays and denials in care.&nbsp;“We believe it is in the best interest of our community to no longer accept Medicare Advantage plans. Our Chief Nursing Officer’s parents had the option to be on a Medicare Advantage plan. She met with an independent insurance agent and helped her parents enroll in Traditional Medicare. As a nurse, she has firsthand knowledge of the delays and denials of care with Medicare Advantage. This change saved her parents money and provides peace of mind. We are treating our family members the same way we want our community to be treated,” said Dr. Narayana Koduri, Chief Medical Officer, Great Plains Health; Ivan Mitchell, CEO, Great Plains Health; and Lindsay Pedersen, Chairman, Great Plains Health Board of Directors.Railroad retirees have a specific option for coverage – <a href="https://yourtracktohealth.com/Common/PDFViewer.aspx?fileName=/PDF_Files/Retirement/RME-Medicare_and_GA-23111PlanF.pdf#zoom=100">GA-23111 PLAN F</a> – an employer-sponsored Medicare supplement offered by Iron Road Healthcare and UnitedHealthcare. This plan will be accepted at Great Plains Health in 2025, with open enrollment running from November 1 to December 31, 2024. Note that GA-23111 PLAN F is not a shoppable plan.Emergency care will always be available to all patients, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. In 2025, Great Plains Health will remain in-network with two D-SNP plans: Molina D-SNP and Nebraska Total Care WellCare D-SNP.Great Plains Health recommends Traditional Medicare and GA-23111 PLAN F for railroad retirees. Traditional Medicare is always accepted at Great Plains Health and other facilities across Nebraska and the United States.For more information, including FAQs and resources, visit <a href="about:blank">gphealth.org/yourlocalcare</a>.

Medicare Advantage plan holders at Great Plains Health granted Special Enrollment Period and guaranteed issue to switch to Traditional Medicare 

Lincoln, NE - The federal government has recently sent this information to the&nbsp; Department of Insurance with regard to Great Plains Hospital no longer taking Medicare Advantage&nbsp; plans.&nbsp;

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) provided the Nebraska Department of Insurance&nbsp; with this letter:&nbsp;

"In response to your inquiry regarding the termination of Great Plains Health as a contracted provider&nbsp; with the following Medicare Advantage (MA) health plans in Nebraska: Aetna, Centene Health, and Blue&nbsp; Cross/Blue Shield of Nebraska, CMS has determined that the provider terminations constitute a&nbsp; significant provider network change. Consequently, the MA plans are required, pursuant to 42 CFR.&nbsp; 422.62(b)(23)(iii), to notify affected beneficiaries of their right to a special enrollment period (SEP),&nbsp; including guaranteed issue rights to a Medigap plan, which would allow disenrollment from their plan&nbsp; and enrollment in another MA plan or Original Medicare. CMS provides model language for the plan to&nbsp; use in the letter to affected beneficiaries regarding the SEP and Medigap guaranteed issue rights.&nbsp;

The SEP is available to enrollees who are assigned to, currently receiving care from, or who have&nbsp; received care within the past three months from a provider or facility being terminated from the MA&nbsp; organization's (or MA-PD) plan’s provider network. The SEP begins the month enrollees are notified of&nbsp; eligibility for the SEP and ends two calendar months after the month in which enrollees are notified of&nbsp; their eligibility.&nbsp;

If an affected beneficiary utilizes the SEP and decides to enroll into Original Medicare, they would have&nbsp; a guaranteed issue right to enroll into Medigap plans A, B, C, D, G, F, K, and L unless they turn 65 after&nbsp; January 1, 2020, and are prohibited from purchasing plans C and F. Please note that beneficiaries who do&nbsp; not meet the MACRA “Newly Eligible Medicare Beneficiary” definition who are exercising guaranteed&nbsp; issue rights under section 1882(s)(3)(B)(ii) are precluded from enrollment in Medigap plans D or G.&nbsp;

OFFICE 402-471-2201 FAX 402-471-4610&nbsp; doi.nebraska.gov&nbsp;

With respect to your question about CMS’ authority to grant an SEP and guaranteed issue rights to a&nbsp; Medigap plan, section 1882(s)(3)(B)(ii) of the Social Security Act outlines guaranteed issuance&nbsp; rights provided to MA enrollees under certain circumstances. In turn, Section 1851(e)(4)(D) outlines&nbsp; the authority of the HHS Secretary to establish MA SEPs that coincide with those GI rights. The&nbsp; SEPs are cited at 42 CFR 422.62(b).&nbsp;

Please contact Derrick Claggett at derrick.claggett@cms.hhs.gov if you have any further questions."

Luke Stara&nbsp;Department of InsuranceLincoln, NE - The federal government has recently sent this information to the&nbsp; Department of Insurance with regard to Great Plains Hospital no longer taking Medicare Advantage&nbsp; plans.&nbsp;The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) provided the Nebraska Department of Insurance&nbsp; with this letter:&nbsp;"In response to your inquiry regarding the termination of Great Plains Health as a contracted provider&nbsp; with the following Medicare Advantage (MA) health plans in Nebraska: Aetna, Centene Health, and Blue&nbsp; Cross/Blue Shield of Nebraska, CMS has determined that the provider terminations constitute a&nbsp; significant provider network change. Consequently, the MA plans are required, pursuant to 42 CFR.&nbsp; 422.62(b)(23)(iii), to notify affected beneficiaries of their right to a special enrollment period (SEP),&nbsp; including guaranteed issue rights to a Medigap plan, which would allow disenrollment from their plan&nbsp; and enrollment in another MA plan or Original Medicare. CMS provides model language for the plan to&nbsp; use in the letter to affected beneficiaries regarding the SEP and Medigap guaranteed issue rights.&nbsp;The SEP is available to enrollees who are assigned to, currently receiving care from, or who have&nbsp; received care within the past three months from a provider or facility being terminated from the MA&nbsp; organization's (or MA-PD) plan’s provider network. The SEP begins the month enrollees are notified of&nbsp; eligibility for the SEP and ends two calendar months after the month in which enrollees are notified of&nbsp; their eligibility.&nbsp;If an affected beneficiary utilizes the SEP and decides to enroll into Original Medicare, they would have&nbsp; a guaranteed issue right to enroll into Medigap plans A, B, C, D, G, F, K, and L unless they turn 65 after&nbsp; January 1, 2020, and are prohibited from purchasing plans C and F. Please note that beneficiaries who do&nbsp; not meet the MACRA “Newly Eligible Medicare Beneficiary” definition who are exercising guaranteed&nbsp; issue rights under section 1882(s)(3)(B)(ii) are precluded from enrollment in Medigap plans D or G.&nbsp;Eric Dunning, Director&nbsp;&nbsp;Department of Insurance&nbsp;&nbsp;1526 K Street, Suite 200&nbsp;PO Box 95087&nbsp;&nbsp;Lincoln, Nebraska 68509-5087&nbsp;&nbsp;OFFICE 402-471-2201 FAX 402-471-4610&nbsp; doi.nebraska.gov&nbsp;With respect to your question about CMS’ authority to grant an SEP and guaranteed issue rights to a&nbsp; Medigap plan, section 1882(s)(3)(B)(ii) of the Social Security Act outlines guaranteed issuance&nbsp; rights provided to MA enrollees under certain circumstances. In turn, Section 1851(e)(4)(D) outlines&nbsp; the authority of the HHS Secretary to establish MA SEPs that coincide with those GI rights. The&nbsp; SEPs are cited at 42 CFR 422.62(b).&nbsp;Please contact Derrick Claggett at derrick.claggett@cms.hhs.gov if you have any further questions."

Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries Eligible for Special Enrollment, Medigap  Coverage 

November 26, 2024 (North Platte, Neb.) –&nbsp;Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested two people over weekend after finding nearly 30 pounds of marijuana in a traffic stop in Keith County.

At approximately 11:04 p.m. MT Saturday, a trooper preformed a traffic stop on a Jeep Compass for a speeding violation. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected an odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle revealed 29 pounds of marijuana located in a large black duffle bag. The driver, Anthony Lewis, 27, of Lincoln, and the passenger, Demitrius Perkins, 31, of Lincoln, was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to deliver and possession of marijuana (more than one pound). Both individuals were lodged in Keith County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732455049453.jpeg" alt="Anthony Lewis Sr (Keith County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Lewis Sr (Keith County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>Mikayla HallNebraska State PatrolNovember 26, 2024 (North Platte, Neb.) –&nbsp;Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested two people over weekend after finding nearly 30 pounds of marijuana in a traffic stop in Keith County.At approximately 11:04 p.m. MT Saturday, a trooper preformed a traffic stop on a Jeep Compass for a speeding violation. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected an odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732455061372.jpeg" alt="Demitrius Perkins&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Demitrius Perkins&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A search of the vehicle revealed 29 pounds of marijuana located in a large black duffle bag. The driver, Anthony Lewis, 27, of Lincoln, and the passenger, Demitrius Perkins, 31, of Lincoln, was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to deliver and possession of marijuana (more than one pound). Both individuals were lodged in Keith County Jail.

Troopers Find Nearly 30 Pounds of Marijuana in Traffic Stop In Keith County

&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting today, November 26th.&nbsp;Below is tonight's agenda for the meeting:

Sandhills Post&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting today, November 26th.&nbsp;Below is tonight's agenda for the meeting:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732296005748.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732296019610.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>

11/26 Ogallala City Council Meeting Agenda

Imperial, Ne -&nbsp;Monday afternoon (November 25), at about 3:00 pm. Chase County Communications received a 911 call regarding a motor vehicle accident on Highway 61 near 744 RD. It was reported that a pickup had run into the back of a tractor. Imperial Police Department Officer Chris Bustillos had happened upon the accident on his way to other official business and he been relaying information to dispatch prior to arrival of other first responders. Sergeant Justin Mueller arrived on scene first and IPD Officer Bustillos filled in Sgt. Mueller.

The accident had blocked both lanes of Highway 61. Sgt. Mueller contacted a male standing at the front passenger door of the pickup and a female passenger still seated in the vehicle. The male was identified as Michael Kuskie, 36, of Ogallala, NE the driver of the pickup and the female passenger was identified as Victoria Willard, 30, also of Ogallala. Sgt. Mueller stayed with the occupants, instructing them on first aid until Chase County EMS and Imperial Volunteer Fire Department arrived on scene and took over for the injured parties. Sgt. Mueller also contacted the driver of the tractor, Nicholas Day, 40, of Madrid, NE. All parties were evaluated by EMS with Kuskie and Willard being transported to Chase County Community Hospital, and Day being released uninjured. 

 During the investigation of the accident, it was discovered that the pickup, a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche, was travelling South on Highway 61. The Avalanche approached the New Holland TV145 tractor, also travelling south, from the rear and struck the back of the New Holland at highway speeds with no signs of braking prior to impact.

Highway 61 remained closed for approximately an hour while crews worked to separate the two vehicles and clear the roadway. Kuskie was issued a citation for Driving Under Suspension, since he was still in the hospital. Willard was transferred with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and Day was uninjured. No parties were wearing seatbelts. The investigation remains ongoing and further charges may be filed.



Imperial, Ne -&nbsp;Monday afternoon (November 25), at about 3:00 pm. Chase County Communications received a 911 call regarding a motor vehicle accident on Highway 61 near 744 RD. It was reported that a pickup had run into the back of a tractor. Imperial Police Department Officer Chris Bustillos had happened upon the accident on his way to other official business and he been relaying information to dispatch prior to arrival of other first responders. Sergeant Justin Mueller arrived on scene first and IPD Officer Bustillos filled in Sgt. Mueller.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732625234839.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Chase County Sheriff's Department showing tractor that was rear ended from behind on Highway 61 on Monday Nov 25, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Chase County Sheriff's Department showing tractor that was rear ended from behind on Highway 61 on Monday Nov 25, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>The accident had blocked both lanes of Highway 61. Sgt. Mueller contacted a male standing at the front passenger door of the pickup and a female passenger still seated in the vehicle. The male was identified as Michael Kuskie, 36, of Ogallala, NE the driver of the pickup and the female passenger was identified as Victoria Willard, 30, also of Ogallala. Sgt. Mueller stayed with the occupants, instructing them on first aid until Chase County EMS and Imperial Volunteer Fire Department arrived on scene and took over for the injured parties. Sgt. Mueller also contacted the driver of the tractor, Nicholas Day, 40, of Madrid, NE. All parties were evaluated by EMS with Kuskie and Willard being transported to Chase County Community Hospital, and Day being released uninjured. During the investigation of the accident, it was discovered that the pickup, a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche, was travelling South on Highway 61. The Avalanche approached the New Holland TV145 tractor, also travelling south, from the rear and struck the back of the New Holland at highway speeds with no signs of braking prior to impact.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fchasecountysheriffoffice%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0zFTHxPuQ4DHahtRQkb7RM9xUVc7B3sXxdhN6GWa3YvVajMdc5Z8zdGau6Q4Mj6QKl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="494" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Highway 61 remained closed for approximately an hour while crews worked to separate the two vehicles and clear the roadway. Kuskie was issued a citation for Driving Under Suspension, since he was still in the hospital. Willard was transferred with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and Day was uninjured. No parties were wearing seatbelts. The investigation remains ongoing and further charges may be filed.

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