COLUMBUS, Neb. — News Channel Nebraska is excited to announce Emerson Elementary in Columbus as the next winner of our Small Towns Matter promotion.

As the winner, the school will receive one bicycle helmet for every student, in addition to a cash donation of $2,500. Launched in 2019, Small Towns Matter is managed in partnership with Medica and the Aksarben Foundation. The program recognizes and supports Nebraska’s rural schools through safety and education-focused initiatives.

“At News Channel Nebraska, the Small Towns Matter program embodies our commitment to serving local communities,” NCN CEO Andy Ruback said. “We’re grateful to partner with Medica and the Aksarben Foundation to help this program continue making a difference.”

NCN encouraged viewers to visit the station website to nominate an elementary school for the award. Emerson Elementary was selected at random as the winner.

“We are deeply touched to receive this award, especially knowing it came from someone who thought so highly of Emerson Elementary,” Principal Angie Luebbe said. “It means so much to be recognized in this way, and it speaks to the warmth, dedication, and sense of community that make Emerson such a wonderful place. I’m so grateful to be part of a school that inspires others and makes such a positive difference.”

The sponsoring organizations have donated a total of $26,000 to nine rural schools over the history of the Small Towns Matter program.

“Few things are more important than the safety and education of our children,” said Patrick Bourne, Nebraska Market President for Medica. “We are honored to help fund this program and be a part of these children’s and families’ lives in all of the moments that matter.”

“At the Aksarben Foundation, we take great pride in supporting programs like Small Towns Matter that celebrate the strength and spirit of Nebraska’s rural communities,” said Sandra Reading, Aksarben Foundation President. “By investing in education and opportunity, we are empowering the next generation to build a stronger future for our state.”

NCN will visit the school on Dec. 5 to present the helmets to each student and a ceremonial check. The presentation will be broadcast live on TV and streamed to NCN social media pages.