Everyday Heroes: Yrkoski Honored

Assistant Clerk, Kathy Yrkoski, relocated to Boone and Nance Counties in 2021 from Platte County. While fulfilling her courtroom duties, she embraced the challenge of assuming Assistant Clerk responsibilities in both County Court and District Court, effectively dividing her time between the two counties. Her unwavering dedication, coupled with her cheerful demeanor and positive outlook, made the integration of District Court responsibilities more manageable.

Probation Management Above and Beyond Award: Erin Sliva

Probation’s Above and Beyond Award has been presented to Erin Sliva, Juvenile Justice Resource Supervisor, from District 2 during the Probation Management Meeting in April 2023.

Probation Above and Beyond award recipients consistently embody probation’s vision and mission with exceptional leadership qualities. Award winners routinely build relationships, use a team approach to complex problems and make data-driven decisions. Recipients identify opportunities to take initiative and lead by example.

Nebraska Judicial Branch to Announce Probation Supervision Week

The Supreme Court will hold a proclamation ceremony announcing Nebraska Probation Supervision Week on behalf of the State Judicial Branch on Monday, July 17, at 2 pm. The ceremony will be streamed live from the courtroom in the State Capitol.

Recognizing that July 16-22, 2023, is nationally identified as Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, Justice Jeffrey Funke will host the Court’s ceremony announcing the recognition of Nebraska’s probation system, urging all citizens – particularly those within the legal community – to take note of the occasion.

Everyday Heroes: Allen & Haney Honored

Grant County Clerk Magistrate Catherine Allen worked alongside Ex Officio Clerk of the District Court Christee Haney to create an engaging court experience for the visiting justices and staff members on the Chief Justice’s summer tour in August 2022. Haney and Allen then arranged a luncheon at the stop in Hyannis; a nice chance to rest and reflect during the long trip. Allen was generous enough to not only assist in Grant County but also later that week in Sheridan County.

Probation Management Rising Star Award: Michelle Pfortmiller

Probation’s Rising Star Award has been presented to Michelle Pfortmiller, Employment Specialist, from District 4A during the Probation Management Meeting in April 2023.

A Rising Star is relatively new to their probation position and exhibits burgeoning leadership qualities and characteristics. Award recipients offer a fresh perspective on existing programs and seek opportunities to grow professionally while actively striving to make a positive impact to move the system forward.

Chief Justice Summer Tour 2023

The 2023 Summer Tour will take the Chief Justice, key court staff, and select judges and justices to the northeastern portion of the state from August 14 to 18. Every summer, the Chief Justice and members of the Court travel outside of Lincoln to meet with judges, court and probation staff, and observe local programs and services.

Probation Management Rising Star Award: Norma Barragan

Probation’s Rising Star Award has been presented to Norma Barragan, Juvenile Justice Resource Supervisor, out of District 6 during the Probation Management Meeting in April 2023.

A Rising Star is relatively new to their probation position and exhibits burgeoning leadership qualities and characteristics. Award recipients offer a fresh perspective on existing programs and seek opportunities to grow professionally while actively striving to make a positive impact to move the system forward.

Everyday Heroes: Judge Carson Honored

Judge Ryan Carson of Hall County District Court organized and directed a tour of the VA Medical Center for administration, staff, and judges on the Chief Justice’s 2022 summer tour. Following the facility walkthrough, guests and community members packed the courthouse to discuss problem-solving courts with area judges.  Their enthusiasm was a demonstration of extraordinary support for the program.

Judge Carson, Thank you for your dedication to Nebraska’s problem-solving courts and all you do for Nebraska’s veterans.

Everyday Heroes: Duncan Honored

Darren Duncan, the Chief Probation Officer of District 12, accompanied the Chief Justice's summer tour group during their comprehensive visit to various courts within the 12th Judicial District in mid-August 2022. Duncan assumed the responsibility of accompanying and guiding the group, facilitating their interactions with local community members and leaders. His firsthand knowledge and expertise provided the tour group with invaluable insights into the operations and intricacies of the region's courts.