NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-When you think of prom in the North Platte area, there is definitely one name that comes to mind, Hirschfeld's.

The Downtown North Platte staple, which was once strictly a men's clothing store, has expanded to become one of the premier prom and pageant shops in the region.

With the coronavirus pandemic stealing everyone's prom date this year, Hirschfeld's immediately announced that they would host a prom for area high school students once restrictions were lifted and people could again host larger gatherings.

On Wednesday, Hirschfeld's announced that they had set the dates for the events.

Hirschfeld's issued the following statement on their Facebook page:

We are excited to finally have some firm dates set for our Community Proms. At this time we are hoping that this date will be a prom like normal, but we have to await the directed health measures for July. If in July dances are still prohibited, we intend to still hold an “alternative prom”. Our alternative prom plans could mean things like pictures, Grand March, dinner, fun games, prize giveaways, special entertainment, and more. While this would not be the ideal situation, we truly want to give students the opportunity to get dressed up, spend time together, have a great day and make fun memories before the end of the summer. Odds are things are not going to be the perfect prom-like kids knew before, but we feel something to look forward to is better than nothing. . Our website:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gotoprom2020.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0MduU7j4o8vg7Hr0zeGV7CDE4TF67dZ5rPLN_9IP87qz0HZoXh39P0s_0&amp;h=AT0BWSMvdDXzgRTE7p1femhqWhqiQyO0rxvX0YHAYeTj_gjDB4MOcpW67OOVyTFiU5cSDjnQTazz24TJDTj3eo-BL861lKIWluvzxfCQYplOGGNwbCDaeEiCk6Dg_c6_oI8jIs-82GaEV8uO9Pujf8g7-xU5BFJD8FZqvIuJxKHDR3uh1uGaWBJUTaj5-MEisSpY7mZ-HGra5zzVRUbs9PFHxa43xOkcPiW2U-DF2YkJO2smKg6Uf8aihVAroqLR5EJ2YZD8CXSbQ8mKvIVwmQlJvNHePDDAj6fUVIDKSqv0GzIPVzTbBcLdQoll341YV7RSQl9vnq3IM9179YkpOcxtY6EGRv6ysH0m9w0EAYfkNJ42BeWRMwgWYHXeBU6FYSNfcBaa4DLgM1_yIJdJJWCXLGKOMW5pvCwxeofWfu5pPNOH-5PMMWG_8OiqjZ1K2c3RAAjhz2a6AaHR6hfEwlQfKhHqF8-W9In8WWFwtUGS95JxDoPOW7guDNrj_1vy7h4CliAUywVNEnYTffWOhYn2WiepkhEYOZzVyrRg_TMkRpXtB7J10cXIQPH4_ZClDQ99svi9vbwJwV9YghzuDgJF338VZNesL6spspuqZGMHyFs2Wx0vpYUr" target="_blank">www.gotoprom2020.com</a>&nbsp;will be your best avenue for all information related to the Community Proms. Firm details, including start and end times, are still being worked out with each Community Prom Committee. As those details develop, the corresponding Community Prom pages on our website will be updated. We encourage you to check the website often throughout June. Right now getting a preliminary attendance count for each prom is important. If you plan to attend your community prom - please get on the website and submit the form on your Community Prom page. If you don’t see your community/school on our list that is because we are not involved in hosting that particular prom event. The proms on our list are happening through the organization and execution by parent groups for each event. We respect and 100% understand that some communities were not comfortable being involved in this type of event yet. We hope that those students will also respect and understand those tough decisions as well. . We also want to make it very clear to the community as a whole that we will diligently follow all directed health measures. Please know we have informed the West Central Health District of our prom plans and they have given support to move forward. All our event details will be provided to them for review to make sure we are creating a safe and fun environment for our guests. We are excited to work with each community and we love the ideas and excitement for each prom, even if we cannot have a traditional dance. Together we need to take steps to move forward in providing kids safe, but still memorable activities. We hope that these Community Proms can act as guide in the right direction. . Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any more questions about our Community Proms. Again visiting our website is a great source of information - and the place where students can let us know if they plan to attend.&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gotoprom2020.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1GuVfFoeJ6uTuADmzsCiFOERUXN7iCJlDFxmZuRZPwws46Xj9RLVu_ZI4&amp;h=AT0Fp_7uAFA7mt8Ytr_vNb-rozc2_sh3oXP6zOL4k8j0DkNRxlvGZEnmXOUbgpohIimoc1TnEkPFZ1CQoYI3RhVfMGH7cKTE0Exzza51njcqslzMl_F4j8Pa7djv7io2XdtVnmV3Rg2byTJIiiWbbsYKFdTRuWDmxbZZj92F6weemIJeB79jbUX_BzXK6rgNV3CWOUKwu5zLzZxwCdk5p6nXl60u1zo2N3pcGvTbjZfQ3pQd6Vgg070aFqH4X8BNHNBsm9t-806fOrmumL5Q-h75O_6bIRzU4Lp5h5ySgrV6b5bvL4btH2a5mq4JqpJpGAtH_oGxIx9ibBSsD-SwEQ2T3hKXZ8qEBb8MA_yYHwLEOT-uafSIEF8DQFLy11zIDNUHe5KFTcEbwrj-W-biOjrO6JyggYReAcWSlbRxSW9Eg-fBtTK1zf8y1Pm478IZL9nnt2KiiOe-yPvK-nfkh8vquuLzoS0Z59ZkPCP4bhrtOQeWotXVjrTe0kq6ptW9fCDDDfDU-sWBSUtDckyRk9tc4UbHsMGHvTgBtIbjCU3VhMS9P6c6xzTt6_GHt9zKI3j3IpZCX-BXaUW8IBRfqHUJlU8CT8gfP4ErTWI7TYnxnZTftoFfdiqD" target="_blank">www.gotoprom2020.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591219353504.png" alt="Photo: Hirschfeld's Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Hirschfeld's Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-When you think of prom in the North Platte area, there is definitely one name that comes to mind, Hirschfeld's.The Downtown North Platte staple, which was once strictly a men's clothing store, has expanded to become one of the premier prom and pageant shops in the region.With the coronavirus pandemic stealing everyone's prom date this year, Hirschfeld's immediately announced that they would host a prom for area high school students once restrictions were lifted and people could again host larger gatherings.On Wednesday, Hirschfeld's announced that they had set the dates for the events.Hirschfeld's issued the following statement on their Facebook page:We are excited to finally have some firm dates set for our Community Proms. At this time we are hoping that this date will be a prom like normal, but we have to await the directed health measures for July. If in July dances are still prohibited, we intend to still hold an “alternative prom”. Our alternative prom plans could mean things like pictures, Grand March, dinner, fun games, prize giveaways, special entertainment, and more. While this would not be the ideal situation, we truly want to give students the opportunity to get dressed up, spend time together, have a great day and make fun memories before the end of the summer. Odds are things are not going to be the perfect prom-like kids knew before, but we feel something to look forward to is better than nothing. . Our website:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gotoprom2020.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0MduU7j4o8vg7Hr0zeGV7CDE4TF67dZ5rPLN_9IP87qz0HZoXh39P0s_0&amp;h=AT0BWSMvdDXzgRTE7p1femhqWhqiQyO0rxvX0YHAYeTj_gjDB4MOcpW67OOVyTFiU5cSDjnQTazz24TJDTj3eo-BL861lKIWluvzxfCQYplOGGNwbCDaeEiCk6Dg_c6_oI8jIs-82GaEV8uO9Pujf8g7-xU5BFJD8FZqvIuJxKHDR3uh1uGaWBJUTaj5-MEisSpY7mZ-HGra5zzVRUbs9PFHxa43xOkcPiW2U-DF2YkJO2smKg6Uf8aihVAroqLR5EJ2YZD8CXSbQ8mKvIVwmQlJvNHePDDAj6fUVIDKSqv0GzIPVzTbBcLdQoll341YV7RSQl9vnq3IM9179YkpOcxtY6EGRv6ysH0m9w0EAYfkNJ42BeWRMwgWYHXeBU6FYSNfcBaa4DLgM1_yIJdJJWCXLGKOMW5pvCwxeofWfu5pPNOH-5PMMWG_8OiqjZ1K2c3RAAjhz2a6AaHR6hfEwlQfKhHqF8-W9In8WWFwtUGS95JxDoPOW7guDNrj_1vy7h4CliAUywVNEnYTffWOhYn2WiepkhEYOZzVyrRg_TMkRpXtB7J10cXIQPH4_ZClDQ99svi9vbwJwV9YghzuDgJF338VZNesL6spspuqZGMHyFs2Wx0vpYUr" target="_blank">www.gotoprom2020.com</a>&nbsp;will be your best avenue for all information related to the Community Proms. Firm details, including start and end times, are still being worked out with each Community Prom Committee. As those details develop, the corresponding Community Prom pages on our website will be updated. We encourage you to check the website often throughout June. Right now getting a preliminary attendance count for each prom is important. If you plan to attend your community prom - please get on the website and submit the form on your Community Prom page. If you don’t see your community/school on our list that is because we are not involved in hosting that particular prom event. The proms on our list are happening through the organization and execution by parent groups for each event. We respect and 100% understand that some communities were not comfortable being involved in this type of event yet. We hope that those students will also respect and understand those tough decisions as well. . We also want to make it very clear to the community as a whole that we will diligently follow all directed health measures. Please know we have informed the West Central Health District of our prom plans and they have given support to move forward. All our event details will be provided to them for review to make sure we are creating a safe and fun environment for our guests. We are excited to work with each community and we love the ideas and excitement for each prom, even if we cannot have a traditional dance. Together we need to take steps to move forward in providing kids safe, but still memorable activities. We hope that these Community Proms can act as guide in the right direction. . Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any more questions about our Community Proms. Again visiting our website is a great source of information - and the place where students can let us know if they plan to attend.&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gotoprom2020.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1GuVfFoeJ6uTuADmzsCiFOERUXN7iCJlDFxmZuRZPwws46Xj9RLVu_ZI4&amp;h=AT0Fp_7uAFA7mt8Ytr_vNb-rozc2_sh3oXP6zOL4k8j0DkNRxlvGZEnmXOUbgpohIimoc1TnEkPFZ1CQoYI3RhVfMGH7cKTE0Exzza51njcqslzMl_F4j8Pa7djv7io2XdtVnmV3Rg2byTJIiiWbbsYKFdTRuWDmxbZZj92F6weemIJeB79jbUX_BzXK6rgNV3CWOUKwu5zLzZxwCdk5p6nXl60u1zo2N3pcGvTbjZfQ3pQd6Vgg070aFqH4X8BNHNBsm9t-806fOrmumL5Q-h75O_6bIRzU4Lp5h5ySgrV6b5bvL4btH2a5mq4JqpJpGAtH_oGxIx9ibBSsD-SwEQ2T3hKXZ8qEBb8MA_yYHwLEOT-uafSIEF8DQFLy11zIDNUHe5KFTcEbwrj-W-biOjrO6JyggYReAcWSlbRxSW9Eg-fBtTK1zf8y1Pm478IZL9nnt2KiiOe-yPvK-nfkh8vquuLzoS0Z59ZkPCP4bhrtOQeWotXVjrTe0kq6ptW9fCDDDfDU-sWBSUtDckyRk9tc4UbHsMGHvTgBtIbjCU3VhMS9P6c6xzTt6_GHt9zKI3j3IpZCX-BXaUW8IBRfqHUJlU8CT8gfP4ErTWI7TYnxnZTftoFfdiqD" target="_blank">www.gotoprom2020.com</a>

Hirschfeld's announces dates for 'Community Prom' events

Scotty C and Rob Mitchell discuss some changes to this Sunday's Peace Walk in North Platte and about the events of yesterday played out.

Scotty C and Rob Mitchell discuss some changes to this Sunday's Peace Walk in North Platte and about the events of yesterday played out.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/834015931&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/local-issues-6-4-20-peace-walk-follow-up" title="Post Podcast: Peace Walk: New location, same peace" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Post Podcast: Peace Walk: New location, same peace</a></div></div>

🎧 Post Podcast: North Platte Peace Walk-New location, same peace

"On behalf of the owner and management of Platte River Mall, we apologize for the miscommunication regarding the PEACEFUL assembly that was planned to begin at the mall. The reaction was based on business obligations, insurance limitations, and tenant concerns. We have since spoken to Chief Hudson with the North Platte Police Department in an attempt to COMMUNICATE and clear up misunderstanding, express our RESPECT for the right of Americans to peacefully protest, and express our TRUST in him and North Platte law enforcement to facilitate harmony in the community. We are blessed to have a community of peace and we hope the relocated event brings out the best in all North Platte citizens."

Note: In the original story, the Peace Walk was to begin in the Platte River Mall parking lot. After the story was published, organizers were contacted by mall representatives, via the North Platte Police Department, and told they could not begin their protest in their parking lot. Organizers have stressed that the protest will be peaceful. The walk will now begin in the parking lot of Harvest Christian Fellowship, 1501 South Dewey. We have reached out to Platte River Mall representatives for comment.

Scotty C. and Rob Mitchell discuss the Peace Walk coming up in North Platte on Sunday, June 7. The walk will start at 2:30 pm in the Harvest Christian Fellowship parking lot.

<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/834015931&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/local-issues-6-4-20-peace-walk-follow-up" title="Post Podcast: Peace Walk: New location, same peace" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Post Podcast: Peace Walk: New location, same peace</a></div></div>UPDATE 6/3/20 3:15 pmStatement from the Platte River Mall:"On behalf of the owner and management of Platte River Mall, we apologize for the miscommunication regarding the PEACEFUL assembly that was planned to begin at the mall. The reaction was based on business obligations, insurance limitations, and tenant concerns. We have since spoken to Chief Hudson with the North Platte Police Department in an attempt to COMMUNICATE and clear up misunderstanding, express our RESPECT for the right of Americans to peacefully protest, and express our TRUST in him and North Platte law enforcement to facilitate harmony in the community. We are blessed to have a community of peace and we hope the relocated event brings out the best in all North Platte citizens."Note: In the original story, the Peace Walk was to begin in the Platte River Mall parking lot. After the story was published, organizers were contacted by mall representatives, via the North Platte Police Department, and told they could not begin their protest in their parking lot. Organizers have stressed that the protest will be peaceful. The walk will now begin in the parking lot of Harvest Christian Fellowship, 1501 South Dewey. We have reached out to Platte River Mall representatives for comment.Scotty C. and Rob Mitchell discuss the Peace Walk coming up in North Platte on Sunday, June 7. The walk will start at 2:30 pm in the Harvest Christian Fellowship parking lot.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/833375605&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/local-issues-6-3-20-rob-mitchell-peace-walk" title="Post Podcast: Protesting Peacefully in North Platte" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Post Podcast: Protesting Peacefully in North Platte</a></div></div>

🎧 Post Podcast: Protesting peacefully in North Platte

Scotty C and Holly Carlini talk about the new 15-foot art obelisk that is nearing completion at the Prairie Arts Center.

Scotty C and Holly Carlini talk about the new 15-foot art obelisk that is nearing completion at the Prairie Arts Center.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/829794727&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/post-podcast-prairie-art-centers-new-obelisk-tower" title="Post Podcast: Prairie Art Center&#x27;s new Obelisk Tower" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Post Podcast: Prairie Art Center&#x27;s new Obelisk Tower</a></div></div>

🎧 Post Podcast: Prairie Art Center's new 15-foot Obelisk Tower

<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/825748894&color=%232a1bd9&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/521-marshall-robinson-for-youth-baseball" title="5.21 Marshall Robinson For Youth Baseball" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">5.21 Marshall Robinson For Youth Baseball</a></div></div>

Post Podcast: Marshall Robinson says "Lets play" for youth baseball NP

Scotty C talks with Great Plains Health President and CEO Mel McNea about the hospital's current situation with COVID-19, reopening and the staff at Great Plains Health.

Scotty C talks with Great Plains Health President and CEO Mel McNea about the hospital's current situation with COVID-19, reopening and the staff at Great Plains Health.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/825133024&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/local-issues-5-21-20-mel-mcnea-great-plains-health" title="Post Podcast: Great Plains Health CEO Mel McNea" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Post Podcast: Great Plains Health CEO Mel McNea</a></div></div>

🎧 Post Podcast: Great Plains Health CEO Mel McNea

Scotty C visits with the new City Administrator for North Platte Matthew Kibbon who replaced Jim Hawks who is retiring. Get to know Matt and learn a little bit about his vision for North Platte.

Scotty C visits with the new City Administrator for North Platte Matthew Kibbon who replaced Jim Hawks who is retiring. Get to know Matt and learn a little bit about his vision for North Platte.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/825122578&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/local-issues-5-21-20-matt-kibbon-city-admin" title="Post Podcast: North Platte&#x27;s new City Administrator" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Post Podcast: North Platte&#x27;s new City Administrator</a></div></div>

🎧 Post Podcast: North Platte's new City Administrator Matt Kibbon

News Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591305464685.png" alt="6-4-2020-rec-rd-lake-mcconaughy.png" />
 <figcaption>6-4-2020-rec-rd-lake-mcconaughy.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

Work to begin on Rec. Road 51 at Lake McConaughy

The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/blood-donor-app.html" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.redcrossblood.org/" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30% after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.

News ReleaseThe American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthy individuals who are feeling well are asked to make an appointment to donate in the weeks and months ahead by downloading the free&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/blood-donor-app.html" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.redcrossblood.org/" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30% after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.

Red Cross has urgent need for blood donations

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Fewer people filed new claims for unemployment in Nebraska last week, but the number is still higher than it was before the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Thursday.

The U.S. Department of Labor reported 5,135 new claims during the week that ended May 30, which is 677 less than the number filed the previous week.

The figures are still more than five times higher than they had been in early March, before the pandemic prompted state officials to impose social-distancing restrictions that forced many businesses to close.

Natoinally, 1.9 million people filed for unemployment last week.

Nebraska never imposed an official stay-at-home order, but many businesses were still forced to close because of state-mandated social distancing restrictions. Some of those restrictions have since been eased, and even more were relaxed on June 1.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Fewer people filed new claims for unemployment in Nebraska last week, but the number is still higher than it was before the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Thursday.The U.S. Department of Labor reported 5,135 new claims during the week that ended May 30, which is 677 less than the number filed the previous week.The figures are still more than five times higher than they had been in early March, before the pandemic prompted state officials to impose social-distancing restrictions that forced many businesses to close.Natoinally, 1.9 million people filed for unemployment last week.Nebraska never imposed an official stay-at-home order, but many businesses were still forced to close because of state-mandated social distancing restrictions. Some of those restrictions have since been eased, and even more were relaxed on June 1.

Nebraska sees fewer new jobless claims, but still high

OMAHA-Omaha Performing Arts is excited to announce this year’s award-winning students to be honored at the 7th&nbsp;annual Nebraska High School Theater Academy Showcase via Omaha Performing Arts Facebook and YouTube on Saturday, June 13th&nbsp;at 6:00 pm! Broadway performer and Omaha native, Q. Smith will host the online showcase featuring middle and high school students from 85 schools across Nebraska!&nbsp; &nbsp;

We can’t wait to virtually celebrate all the incredible achievements by you and your students at our first ever digital NHSTA Showcase. The Showcase is free and open to the public, so no matter where you are, you can watch the opening and closing musical selections and cheer on your students and fellow teachers.&nbsp;

Thank you so much to everyone who participated in the program this year. Your talents and dedication are truly inspiring!

Abby Schneckloth,&nbsp;Grand Island Northwest High School&nbsp;– Tracy Turnblad,&nbsp;Hairspray&nbsp;

Al Griffin,&nbsp;Omaha South&nbsp;Magnet High&nbsp;School&nbsp;– Leaf&nbsp;Coneybear,&nbsp;The 25th&nbsp;Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee&nbsp;

Aubrey&nbsp;Aldag,&nbsp;Lincoln Southwest High School&nbsp;–&nbsp;Medda&nbsp;Larkin,&nbsp;Newsies&nbsp;

Benjamin&nbsp;Hastreiter,&nbsp;Elkhorn High School&nbsp;–&nbsp;Harold Hill,&nbsp;The Music Man&nbsp;

Darian Draft,&nbsp;Bellevue West High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Audrey,&nbsp;Little Shop of Horrors&nbsp;

Elliott&nbsp;Purdy, North Platte High School - Tony,&nbsp;West&nbsp;Side Story&nbsp;

Jill Stark,&nbsp;Westside High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Roz Keith,&nbsp;9 to 5 the Musical&nbsp;&nbsp;

John Greisen,&nbsp;Lincoln Southwest High School&nbsp;–&nbsp;Crutchie,&nbsp;Newsies&nbsp;

McKenna Cottone,&nbsp;Millard North High School&nbsp;– The Witch,&nbsp;Into&nbsp;the&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;

Wayne Hudson II,&nbsp;Millard North High School&nbsp;– The Wolf and Cinderella’s Prince,&nbsp;Into&nbsp;the&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;

SENIOR OF THE YEAR AWARD&nbsp;&nbsp;

Massimo Saitta,&nbsp;Omaha South&nbsp;Magnet High&nbsp;School&nbsp;

Becca Jackson-York, Daniel J. Gross Catholic High School

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN DESIGN&nbsp;

Abigail Forsman,&nbsp;Millard West High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Projection Design

Jazlyn Adams,&nbsp;Scottsbluff High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Makeup Design&nbsp;

OUSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN STAGE MANAGEMENT&nbsp;

Tessa Masek, Bishop Neumann High School

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591303445481.png" alt="Ellott Purdy" />
 <figcaption>Ellott Purdy</figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseOMAHA-Omaha Performing Arts is excited to announce this year’s award-winning students to be honored at the 7th&nbsp;annual Nebraska High School Theater Academy Showcase via Omaha Performing Arts Facebook and YouTube on Saturday, June 13th&nbsp;at 6:00 pm! Broadway performer and Omaha native, Q. Smith will host the online showcase featuring middle and high school students from 85 schools across Nebraska!&nbsp; &nbsp;We can’t wait to virtually celebrate all the incredible achievements by you and your students at our first ever digital NHSTA Showcase. The Showcase is free and open to the public, so no matter where you are, you can watch the opening and closing musical selections and cheer on your students and fellow teachers.&nbsp;Thank you so much to everyone who participated in the program this year. Your talents and dedication are truly inspiring!The winners (in alphabetical order) are:STATE FINALISTSAbby Schneckloth,&nbsp;Grand Island Northwest High School&nbsp;– Tracy Turnblad,&nbsp;Hairspray&nbsp;Al Griffin,&nbsp;Omaha South&nbsp;Magnet High&nbsp;School&nbsp;– Leaf&nbsp;Coneybear,&nbsp;The 25th&nbsp;Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee&nbsp;Aubrey&nbsp;Aldag,&nbsp;Lincoln Southwest High School&nbsp;–&nbsp;Medda&nbsp;Larkin,&nbsp;Newsies&nbsp;Benjamin&nbsp;Hastreiter,&nbsp;Elkhorn High School&nbsp;–&nbsp;Harold Hill,&nbsp;The Music Man&nbsp;Darian Draft,&nbsp;Bellevue West High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Audrey,&nbsp;Little Shop of Horrors&nbsp;Elliott&nbsp;Purdy, North Platte High School - Tony,&nbsp;West&nbsp;Side Story&nbsp;Jill Stark,&nbsp;Westside High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Roz Keith,&nbsp;9 to 5 the Musical&nbsp;&nbsp;John Greisen,&nbsp;Lincoln Southwest High School&nbsp;–&nbsp;Crutchie,&nbsp;Newsies&nbsp;McKenna Cottone,&nbsp;Millard North High School&nbsp;– The Witch,&nbsp;Into&nbsp;the&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;Wayne Hudson II,&nbsp;Millard North High School&nbsp;– The Wolf and Cinderella’s Prince,&nbsp;Into&nbsp;the&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;SENIOR OF THE YEAR AWARD&nbsp;&nbsp;Massimo Saitta,&nbsp;Omaha South&nbsp;Magnet High&nbsp;School&nbsp;OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AWARD&nbsp;Becca Jackson-York, Daniel J. Gross Catholic High SchoolOUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN DESIGN&nbsp;Abigail Forsman,&nbsp;Millard West High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Projection DesignJazlyn Adams,&nbsp;Scottsbluff High School&nbsp;-&nbsp;Makeup Design&nbsp;OUSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN STAGE MANAGEMENT&nbsp;Tessa Masek, Bishop Neumann High School

NPHS senior among Omaha Performing Arts State Finalists

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Six more people have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and state officials have confirmed 255 new cases, according to the state's online tracking portal.

The number of known cases rose to 14,866 and the number of deaths has reached 187 as of Wednesday night. More than 112,400 people have been tested.

Hospital capacity is relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 46% of intensive care unit beds and 75% of ventilators available for use.

Gov. Pete Ricketts had been scheduled to answer media questions about the coronavirus on Thursday but canceled it, saying he was doing so out of respect for the nationally televised memorial service of George Floyd, the black man whose death in Minneapolis police custody has triggered national protests.

For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Six more people have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and state officials have confirmed 255 new cases, according to the state's online tracking portal.The number of known cases rose to 14,866 and the number of deaths has reached 187 as of Wednesday night. More than 112,400 people have been tested.Hospital capacity is relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 46% of intensive care unit beds and 75% of ventilators available for use.Gov. Pete Ricketts had been scheduled to answer media questions about the coronavirus on Thursday but canceled it, saying he was doing so out of respect for the nationally televised memorial service of George Floyd, the black man whose death in Minneapolis police custody has triggered national protests.For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

6 more virus deaths, 255 new cases reported in Nebraska

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Sign up for the North Platte Morning News Update

Eagle
 Communications announced this week that Olivia Hasenauer has been named
 regional manager, overseeing the Alliance, Chadron and North Platte 
markets.&nbsp;

Hasenauer began her career with Eagle in 2011 as a marketing consultant and was promoted to sales manager in June 2014. She has received numerous awards with Eagle Communications,
 including the 2014 Individual Performance Award, given annually to an 
employee-owner who exhibits exemplary leadership and job performance.&nbsp;

Hasenauer
 helped lead the Eagle Radio of Alliance and Chadron team to earning top
 honors at the annual Eagle Radio sales convention in February of this 
year. The team was presented with the Eagle Spirit Award, which is 
awarded to the market that consistently achieves goals and demonstrates 
resiliency.&nbsp;

“This is an exciting time for our Nebraska region and Eagle Communications. I'm excited to take on this new role and the challenges that come with it,” Hasenauer said. “The opportunities are endless for Nebraska and our partnering businesses. Separately, our teams, markets and stations are good, but with this new collaboration and everyone working together as a region, the possibilities and new opportunities for Eagle Communications, our employee-owners and our clients are great.”&nbsp;

“I am excited for Eagle and our Nebraska region,” said Kurt David, Eagle president and CEO. “The North Platte, Alliance and Chadron markets cover the Panhandle and central parts of the state. Our Post sites — North Platte Post and Panhandle Post — have online audiences extending even farther. We at Eagle are committed to being the leader in local news, information and entertainment. Under Olivia’s leadership and the experience of Lewys Carlini, who stays with Eagle in the role of North Platte sales manager, we will create even better experiences for our clients, listeners, viewers and communities.”&nbsp;

Eagle Radio of Alliance/Chadron operates KAAQ 105.9FM, KCNB 94.7FM, KCOW 1400AM/92.5FM, KQSK 97.5FM, and <a href="http://salinapost.com/" target="_blank">PanhandlePost.com</a>. Eagle Radio of North Platte operates KELN 97.1FM, KNPQ 107.3FM, KOOQ 1410AM/98.1FM, and <a href="http://www.northplattepost.com" target="_blank">NorthPlattePost.com</a>.&nbsp;

Founded
 in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with
 over 165 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in 
Kansas, Nebraska
 and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online 
solutions, web development, video production, and creative services. 
Eagle is the parent company of the Post News Network. For more, visit <a href="http://www.eagleradio.net" target="_blank">eagleradio.net</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591289680415.jpeg" alt="Olivia Hasenauer" />
 <figcaption>Olivia Hasenauer</figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle
 Communications announced this week that Olivia Hasenauer has been named
 regional manager, overseeing the Alliance, Chadron and North Platte 
markets.&nbsp;Hasenauer began her career with Eagle in 2011 as a marketing consultant and was promoted to sales manager in June 2014. She has received numerous awards with Eagle Communications,
 including the 2014 Individual Performance Award, given annually to an 
employee-owner who exhibits exemplary leadership and job performance.&nbsp;Hasenauer
 helped lead the Eagle Radio of Alliance and Chadron team to earning top
 honors at the annual Eagle Radio sales convention in February of this 
year. The team was presented with the Eagle Spirit Award, which is 
awarded to the market that consistently achieves goals and demonstrates 
resiliency.&nbsp;“This is an exciting time for our Nebraska region and Eagle Communications. I'm excited to take on this new role and the challenges that come with it,” Hasenauer said. “The opportunities are endless for Nebraska and our partnering businesses. Separately, our teams, markets and stations are good, but with this new collaboration and everyone working together as a region, the possibilities and new opportunities for Eagle Communications, our employee-owners and our clients are great.”&nbsp;“I am excited for Eagle and our Nebraska region,” said Kurt David, Eagle president and CEO. “The North Platte, Alliance and Chadron markets cover the Panhandle and central parts of the state. Our Post sites — North Platte Post and Panhandle Post — have online audiences extending even farther. We at Eagle are committed to being the leader in local news, information and entertainment. Under Olivia’s leadership and the experience of Lewys Carlini, who stays with Eagle in the role of North Platte sales manager, we will create even better experiences for our clients, listeners, viewers and communities.”&nbsp;Eagle Radio of Alliance/Chadron operates KAAQ 105.9FM, KCNB 94.7FM, KCOW 1400AM/92.5FM, KQSK 97.5FM, and <a href="http://salinapost.com/" target="_blank">PanhandlePost.com</a>. Eagle Radio of North Platte operates KELN 97.1FM, KNPQ 107.3FM, KOOQ 1410AM/98.1FM, and <a href="http://www.northplattepost.com" target="_blank">NorthPlattePost.com</a>.&nbsp;Founded
 in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with
 over 165 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in 
Kansas, Nebraska
 and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online 
solutions, web development, video production, and creative services. 
Eagle is the parent company of the Post News Network. For more, visit <a href="http://www.eagleradio.net" target="_blank">eagleradio.net</a>&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587646217274.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hasenauer named regional manager of Eagle's Nebraska markets

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591284941276.png" alt="police activity june 3 to june 4 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>police activity june 3 to june 4 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte Police Call Log (June 3-4, 2020)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591269093470.png" alt="Pierce Ryan Stewart: Disturbing the Peace" />
 <figcaption>Pierce Ryan Stewart: Disturbing the Peace</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591269125639.png" alt="Destenye Lyn Hewitt: Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Destenye Lyn Hewitt: Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2>
This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to
admin@northplattepost.com.



</div>

The Hot Sheets (6.4.20): Do as We Say Not as We Do

NEW YORK (AP) — If Major League Baseball and its players take the field for a coronanvirus-delayed 2020 season, it will be after acrimonious negotiations that resemble their labor war of a generation ago.

MLB rejected the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/37af758bdd54bbfba85ed359dfd85df4">players’ proposal for a 114-game regular season&nbsp;</a>with no additional salary cuts, and will turn its attention to a shortened slate of perhaps 50 games or fewer. Owners last week proposed an 82-game schedule starting in early July.

“We do not have any reason to believe that a negotiated solution for an 82-game season is possible,” Deputy Commissioner Dan Halem wrote in a letter Wednesday to chief union negotiator Bruce Meyer that was obtained by The Associated Press.

MLB’s plan included&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8" target="_blank">a sliding scale of pay decreases</a>&nbsp;that would leave players at the $563,500 minimum with 47% of their original salaries and top stars Mike Trout and Gerrit Cole at less than 22% of the $36 million they had been set to earn.

Players insisted they receive the prorated salaries agreed to in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dd87bcc774d608e53624594fe56fab0c">March 26 deal</a>, which would give them 70% pay at 114 games. That agreement called for the sides to “discuss in good faith the economic feasibility of playing games in the absence of spectators.” The union has said no additional cuts are acceptable.

There has not been a schedule averaging fewer than 82 games per team since 1879.

“Despite what it sounds like with some of the Twitter bickering back and forth and some of the posturing back and forth, I am optimistic that we are going to play baseball this year,” Milwaukee president of baseball operations David Stearns said. “I’m optimistic that both sides genuinely want to play baseball this year, that there’s a path to doing so, even if it’s a shorter season, even if it’s 50 games.”

Ballparks without fans appear certain due to the pandemic. MLB&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/75087708a030c20637c5ea25b5c99c40">claims large losses</a>&nbsp;due to the virus, which the union disputes, and teams want additional salary reductions. Halem said 27 of the 30 teams would lose money with each additional game.

A 50-game schedule would result in players receiving about 30% of their full salaries under the March 26 deal.

“You confirmed for us on Sunday that players are unified in their view that they will not accept less than 100% of their prorated salaries, and we have no choice but to accept that representation,” Halem wrote.

“Nonetheless, the commissioner is committed to playing baseball in 2020,” Halem added. “He has started discussions with ownership about staging a shorter season without fans.”

Halem ended his letter by telling Meyer “we stand ready to discuss any ideas you may have that might lead to an agreement on resuming play without regular fan access in our stadiums.”

MLB wants to start the season in early July, and Halem wrote an agreement would have had to be reached by June 1 in order to reopen training camps by June 10. That would leave three to four weeks of preparation, which Halem said is the “wide consensus.”

“We are opposed to rushing to begin the season and then subjecting players to a grueling schedule,” he said.

Players made their proposal Sunday, five days after management’s initial economic plan. Opening day would be June 30 and the regular season would end Oct. 31, nearly five weeks after the Sept. 27 conclusion that MLB’s proposal stuck to from the season’s original schedule.

MLB does not want to play past October because it fears a second wave of the coronavirus could disrupt the postseason and jeopardize $787 million in broadcast revenue. Halem cited MLB’s infectious disease consultant, Dr. Ali Khan, Dean of the College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska.

“It is not in the collective interest of clubs or players to begin a 2020 season and subsequently be forced to suspend or cancel it before the completion of the postseason,” Halem wrote.

“Dr. Khan and his team have advised us that to minimize the risk of a subsequent delay or cancellation of the 2020 season we should endeavor to complete the season and postseason as early in the fall as possible,” he wrote. “In addition, your proposal ignores the realities of the weather in many parts of the country during the second half of October. If we schedule a full slate of games in late October, we will be plagued by cancellations.”

As part of the March 26 deal, players got $170 million in salary advances —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e3d88c5118e378cebed94bbb08d772d8">ranging from $16,500 to $286,500</a>&nbsp;— and a guarantee that if the season is scrapped each player would get 2020 service time matching what the player accrued in 2019.

MLB’s proposal on May 26 would lower 2020 salaries from about $4 billion to approximately $1.2 billion, not including signing bonuses, termination pay or option buyouts. There would be a $200 million bonus if the postseason is completed.

The union’s offer would have salaries total about $2.8 billion, leaving each player with about 70% of his original salary.

Halem said coronavirus testing would cost the teams $40 million to $50 million. He claimed “clubs would fare even worse economically if we were to play a significant number of doubleheaders, as your counter-proposal contemplates.”

Players proposed that $100 million in salaries be deferred to 2021 and 2022 if the postseason is canceled.

“Deferring salaries, with interest, is the economic equivalent of assuming more debt,” Halem said. “Clubs already have assumed $2 billion in additional debt that must be serviced and do not have the financial capacity to push more 2020 financial obligations into future years without impacting their financial stability.”

Both sides have proposed expanding the playoffs from 10 teams to 14, and the union has offered to guarantee the expansion through 2021. Both sides also are willing to widen use of the designated hitter to all games this year.

The union proposed high-risk players, or players who live with a high-risk individual, be able to opt out of playing, and MLB has said it is willing to discuss the topic. MLB, however, says other players who opt out would get neither salary nor service time, which is key to eligibility for free agency and arbitration. The union proposed that group not get paid but receive service time.

AP Sports Writer Steve Megargee contributed to this report.

By RONALD BLUM - Associated PressNEW YORK (AP) — If Major League Baseball and its players take the field for a coronanvirus-delayed 2020 season, it will be after acrimonious negotiations that resemble their labor war of a generation ago.MLB rejected the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/37af758bdd54bbfba85ed359dfd85df4">players’ proposal for a 114-game regular season&nbsp;</a>with no additional salary cuts, and will turn its attention to a shortened slate of perhaps 50 games or fewer. Owners last week proposed an 82-game schedule starting in early July.“We do not have any reason to believe that a negotiated solution for an 82-game season is possible,” Deputy Commissioner Dan Halem wrote in a letter Wednesday to chief union negotiator Bruce Meyer that was obtained by The Associated Press.MLB’s plan included&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8" target="_blank">a sliding scale of pay decreases</a>&nbsp;that would leave players at the $563,500 minimum with 47% of their original salaries and top stars Mike Trout and Gerrit Cole at less than 22% of the $36 million they had been set to earn.Players insisted they receive the prorated salaries agreed to in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dd87bcc774d608e53624594fe56fab0c">March 26 deal</a>, which would give them 70% pay at 114 games. That agreement called for the sides to “discuss in good faith the economic feasibility of playing games in the absence of spectators.” The union has said no additional cuts are acceptable.There has not been a schedule averaging fewer than 82 games per team since 1879.“Despite what it sounds like with some of the Twitter bickering back and forth and some of the posturing back and forth, I am optimistic that we are going to play baseball this year,” Milwaukee president of baseball operations David Stearns said. “I’m optimistic that both sides genuinely want to play baseball this year, that there’s a path to doing so, even if it’s a shorter season, even if it’s 50 games.”Ballparks without fans appear certain due to the pandemic. MLB&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/75087708a030c20637c5ea25b5c99c40">claims large losses</a>&nbsp;due to the virus, which the union disputes, and teams want additional salary reductions. Halem said 27 of the 30 teams would lose money with each additional game.A 50-game schedule would result in players receiving about 30% of their full salaries under the March 26 deal.“You confirmed for us on Sunday that players are unified in their view that they will not accept less than 100% of their prorated salaries, and we have no choice but to accept that representation,” Halem wrote.“Nonetheless, the commissioner is committed to playing baseball in 2020,” Halem added. “He has started discussions with ownership about staging a shorter season without fans.”Halem ended his letter by telling Meyer “we stand ready to discuss any ideas you may have that might lead to an agreement on resuming play without regular fan access in our stadiums.”MLB wants to start the season in early July, and Halem wrote an agreement would have had to be reached by June 1 in order to reopen training camps by June 10. That would leave three to four weeks of preparation, which Halem said is the “wide consensus.”“We are opposed to rushing to begin the season and then subjecting players to a grueling schedule,” he said.Players made their proposal Sunday, five days after management’s initial economic plan. Opening day would be June 30 and the regular season would end Oct. 31, nearly five weeks after the Sept. 27 conclusion that MLB’s proposal stuck to from the season’s original schedule.MLB does not want to play past October because it fears a second wave of the coronavirus could disrupt the postseason and jeopardize $787 million in broadcast revenue. Halem cited MLB’s infectious disease consultant, Dr. Ali Khan, Dean of the College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska.“It is not in the collective interest of clubs or players to begin a 2020 season and subsequently be forced to suspend or cancel it before the completion of the postseason,” Halem wrote.“Dr. Khan and his team have advised us that to minimize the risk of a subsequent delay or cancellation of the 2020 season we should endeavor to complete the season and postseason as early in the fall as possible,” he wrote. “In addition, your proposal ignores the realities of the weather in many parts of the country during the second half of October. If we schedule a full slate of games in late October, we will be plagued by cancellations.”As part of the March 26 deal, players got $170 million in salary advances —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e3d88c5118e378cebed94bbb08d772d8">ranging from $16,500 to $286,500</a>&nbsp;— and a guarantee that if the season is scrapped each player would get 2020 service time matching what the player accrued in 2019.MLB’s proposal on May 26 would lower 2020 salaries from about $4 billion to approximately $1.2 billion, not including signing bonuses, termination pay or option buyouts. There would be a $200 million bonus if the postseason is completed.The union’s offer would have salaries total about $2.8 billion, leaving each player with about 70% of his original salary.Halem said coronavirus testing would cost the teams $40 million to $50 million. He claimed “clubs would fare even worse economically if we were to play a significant number of doubleheaders, as your counter-proposal contemplates.”Players proposed that $100 million in salaries be deferred to 2021 and 2022 if the postseason is canceled.“Deferring salaries, with interest, is the economic equivalent of assuming more debt,” Halem said. “Clubs already have assumed $2 billion in additional debt that must be serviced and do not have the financial capacity to push more 2020 financial obligations into future years without impacting their financial stability.”Both sides have proposed expanding the playoffs from 10 teams to 14, and the union has offered to guarantee the expansion through 2021. Both sides also are willing to widen use of the designated hitter to all games this year.The union proposed high-risk players, or players who live with a high-risk individual, be able to opt out of playing, and MLB has said it is willing to discuss the topic. MLB, however, says other players who opt out would get neither salary nor service time, which is key to eligibility for free agency and arbitration. The union proposed that group not get paid but receive service time.___AP Sports Writer Steve Megargee contributed to this report.

MLB rejects 114-game schedule, threatens plan of about 50

All 32 NFL teams have been told by Commissioner Roger Goodell to hold training camps at their home facilities this summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Most NFL teams stay at their training complexes year-round, but Dallas, Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Buffalo, Indianapolis, Carolina, Washington and the Los Angeles Rams are among those that stage portions of training camp elsewhere.

“The league’s decision was made based on the medical assessment of current risk factors and in consideration for the health and safety of players and football staffs,” the Colts said in a release.

Goodell also ordered no joint practices for teams, something that had become increasing popular in recent summers.

“We believe that each of these steps will enhance our ability to protect the health and safety of players and your football staffs and are consistent with a sound approach to risk management in the current environment,” Goodell said in the memo sent to teams.

The Cowboys and Steelers are scheduled for the Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 6 and will be the first two teams to report in late July. Dallas usually trains in Oxnard, California, and Pittsburgh in nearby Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

The Cowboys have never held their entire preseason at home. The Steelers have trained at St. Vincent College in Latrobe for more than a half-century.

The league has canceled all in-person workouts at team facilities, which only in the past two weeks have begun opening on a limited basis. No coaches nor players other than those undergoing medical treatment and rehabilitation have been allowed in those facilities.

Soon, the NFL is hopeful of having club complexes fully open, but under strict medical guidelines including social distancing protocols.

One team in something of a limbo: the Raiders. Their move to Las Vegas has been complicated by the pandemic, of course. They had been working out of their Oakland-area complex in Alameda, and had been planning to hold training camp as usual in Napa, about one hour north of the Bay Area. But they could decide to move it to their new facility in Henderson, Nevada.

The Bills have gone to St. John Fisher College outside of Rochester, New York, since 2000, though they have decreased the time they’ve spent away for camp in recent years under coach Sean McDermott.

The Bills have expanded practice facilities at and around their headquarters, and last year unveiled a new training facility/weight room featuring state-of-the-art equipment and costing about $18 million as an addition to their headquarters.

Carolina has spent all 25 previous training camps at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, about 90 minutes from Charlotte. Wofford was former owner Jerry Richardson’s alma mater.

One team that usually traveled for training camp, the Bears, previously announced they would not be going to Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, where they spent the past 18 years.

By BARRY WILNER - Associated PressAll 32 NFL teams have been told by Commissioner Roger Goodell to hold training camps at their home facilities this summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic.Most NFL teams stay at their training complexes year-round, but Dallas, Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Buffalo, Indianapolis, Carolina, Washington and the Los Angeles Rams are among those that stage portions of training camp elsewhere.“The league’s decision was made based on the medical assessment of current risk factors and in consideration for the health and safety of players and football staffs,” the Colts said in a release.Goodell also ordered no joint practices for teams, something that had become increasing popular in recent summers.“We believe that each of these steps will enhance our ability to protect the health and safety of players and your football staffs and are consistent with a sound approach to risk management in the current environment,” Goodell said in the memo sent to teams.The Cowboys and Steelers are scheduled for the Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 6 and will be the first two teams to report in late July. Dallas usually trains in Oxnard, California, and Pittsburgh in nearby Latrobe, Pennsylvania.The Cowboys have never held their entire preseason at home. The Steelers have trained at St. Vincent College in Latrobe for more than a half-century.The league has canceled all in-person workouts at team facilities, which only in the past two weeks have begun opening on a limited basis. No coaches nor players other than those undergoing medical treatment and rehabilitation have been allowed in those facilities.Soon, the NFL is hopeful of having club complexes fully open, but under strict medical guidelines including social distancing protocols.One team in something of a limbo: the Raiders. Their move to Las Vegas has been complicated by the pandemic, of course. They had been working out of their Oakland-area complex in Alameda, and had been planning to hold training camp as usual in Napa, about one hour north of the Bay Area. But they could decide to move it to their new facility in Henderson, Nevada.The Bills have gone to St. John Fisher College outside of Rochester, New York, since 2000, though they have decreased the time they’ve spent away for camp in recent years under coach Sean McDermott.The Bills have expanded practice facilities at and around their headquarters, and last year unveiled a new training facility/weight room featuring state-of-the-art equipment and costing about $18 million as an addition to their headquarters.Carolina has spent all 25 previous training camps at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, about 90 minutes from Charlotte. Wofford was former owner Jerry Richardson’s alma mater.One team that usually traveled for training camp, the Bears, previously announced they would not be going to Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, where they spent the past 18 years.

NFL tells teams they must hold training camps at home

The recent tragedies in this country are unacceptable.The senseless deaths that have occurred are inexcusable. We should all stand up against racism of any kind. It should have no place in this world.

I am hurting for our communities, our state, and our country. I am hurting for the Black community and the Black members of our team and our coaching staff.

We all respond to pain and grief in different ways. I have been raised to turn to faith and prayer.

I pray for peace on our streets tonight and for peace on our streets moving forward.

I pray that God shows us all how to be caring for and accepting of one another.

I pray that Gods shows us all how to be agents for change.

I humbly pray for the wisdom and strength to continue to lead our program in a positive way.

I pray for love instead of anger and for equality instead of injustice.

We are all God's children! Please be save, Nebraska.

The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you,

The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

The recent tragedies in this country are unacceptable.The senseless deaths that have occurred are inexcusable. We should all stand up against racism of any kind. It should have no place in this world.I am hurting for our communities, our state, and our country. I am hurting for the Black community and the Black members of our team and our coaching staff.We all respond to pain and grief in different ways. I have been raised to turn to faith and prayer.I pray for peace on our streets tonight and for peace on our streets moving forward.I pray that God shows us all how to be caring for and accepting of one another.I pray that Gods shows us all how to be agents for change.I humbly pray for the wisdom and strength to continue to lead our program in a positive way.I pray for love instead of anger and for equality instead of injustice.We are all God's children! Please be save, Nebraska.This Lord bless you and keep you,The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you,The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.Numbers 6:24-26

Coach Scott Frost statement on the riots

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The college football season opener between Notre Dame and Navy has been moved out of Ireland because of the cornavirus pandemic.

The Irish and Midshipmen were scheduled to meet in Dublin on Aug. 29, but instead will seek to play at the Naval Academy during the Labor Day weekend. The decision to move the venue came after discussions between the Irish government, medical authorities and the leadership teams at Navy and Notre Dame.

“Our priority must be ensuring the health and safety of all involved,” Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuk said. “I am expecting that we will still be able to play Notre Dame as our season opener, but there is still much to be determined by health officials and those that govern college football at large.”

Notre Dame and Navy planned to stage the 94th consecutive installment of the longest continuous intersectional rivalry in the United States at Aviva Stadium in Ireland. Instead, the schools will strive to play at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland, on Sept. 5 or 6. This will be the first time the Fighting Irish will play at Navy’s 34,000-seat stadium. The game is usually played at a larger alternative site when the Midshipmen host.

“College football is one of the greatest spectacles in world sport and we had been thoroughly looking forward to welcoming Navy and Notre Dame here this summer,” said Leo Varadkar, the Prime Minister of Ireland. “Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, that is now not possible. But we hope to see both universities return to Aviva Stadium in the coming years.”

The Navy-Notre Dame game at Aviva Stadium in 2012 attracted more than 35,000 fans from the United States. An estimated 40,000 people were expected to travel overseas this year’s matchup.

“Our student-athletes have had great experiences competing in Ireland and are very disappointed not to be returning to Dublin in 2020,” Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick said. “The change of venue has been a very difficult decision for our colleagues at the Naval Academy, but we are in full support of their choice. We look forward to going back to Ireland for a game in the not too distant future.”

By The Associated PressANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The college football season opener between Notre Dame and Navy has been moved out of Ireland because of the cornavirus pandemic.The Irish and Midshipmen were scheduled to meet in Dublin on Aug. 29, but instead will seek to play at the Naval Academy during the Labor Day weekend. The decision to move the venue came after discussions between the Irish government, medical authorities and the leadership teams at Navy and Notre Dame.“Our priority must be ensuring the health and safety of all involved,” Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuk said. “I am expecting that we will still be able to play Notre Dame as our season opener, but there is still much to be determined by health officials and those that govern college football at large.”Notre Dame and Navy planned to stage the 94th consecutive installment of the longest continuous intersectional rivalry in the United States at Aviva Stadium in Ireland. Instead, the schools will strive to play at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland, on Sept. 5 or 6. This will be the first time the Fighting Irish will play at Navy’s 34,000-seat stadium. The game is usually played at a larger alternative site when the Midshipmen host.“College football is one of the greatest spectacles in world sport and we had been thoroughly looking forward to welcoming Navy and Notre Dame here this summer,” said Leo Varadkar, the Prime Minister of Ireland. “Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, that is now not possible. But we hope to see both universities return to Aviva Stadium in the coming years.”The Navy-Notre Dame game at Aviva Stadium in 2012 attracted more than 35,000 fans from the United States. An estimated 40,000 people were expected to travel overseas this year’s matchup.“Our student-athletes have had great experiences competing in Ireland and are very disappointed not to be returning to Dublin in 2020,” Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick said. “The change of venue has been a very difficult decision for our colleagues at the Naval Academy, but we are in full support of their choice. We look forward to going back to Ireland for a game in the not too distant future.”

Notre Dame-Navy football opener moved from Ireland to U.S.

NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball players ignored claims by clubs that they need to take additional pay cuts, instead proposing they receive a far higher percentage of salaries and a commit to a longer schedule as part of a counteroffer to start the coronavirus-delayed season.

Players proposed a 114-game regular season Sunday, up from 82 in management’s offer, a person familiar with the plan told The Associated Press. Done that way, the World Series could extend past Thanksgiving.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because no details were announced.

Opening day would be June 30 and the regular season would end Oct. 31, nearly five weeks after the Sept. 27 conclusion that MLB’s proposal stuck to from the season’s original schedule. The union offered scheduling flexibility to include more doubleheaders as baseball crams the games into 123 days, leaving little room for days off.

MLB’s proposal Tuesday would lower 2020 salaries from about $4 billion to approximately $1.2 billion. The union’s offer would have salaries total about $2.8 billion.

The plan was given to MLB during an 80-minute digital meeting among Commissioner Rob Manfred, deputy commissioner Dan Halem, union head Tony Clark and union chief negotiator Bruce Meyer. The meeting was contentious, a person familiar with it said.

Like MLB, the union would increase postseason teams from 10 to 14. But unlike MLB, the players’ proposal would extend the postseason about a month past its usual end. MLB has said it is worried about a second wave of the coronavirus in the autumn.

While management proposed an expanded postseason for 2020 only, the union offered it for this year and next.

Players proposed new events that could increase revenue, such as a postseason or offseason All-Star Game and/or Home Run Derby, to wear broadcast microphones on the field and participate in television programming away from ballparks.

They also asked for $100 million more in salary to be advanced during the resumption of spring training.

A player would receive about 70% of his salary, or 114/162nds, under the union plan.

The union and MLB agreed March 26 that players would receive prorated shares of salaries, part of the deal in which if the season is scrapped each player was guaranteed service time for 2020 matching what the player earned in 2019. The union also was guaranteed $170 million in salary advances.

While the union says salaries were dealt with then, that agreement covered only games in regular-season ballparks and with fans. The deal called for “good faith” negotiations for games without fans or at neutral sites.

MLB told the union that players would get 89% of revenue in an 82-game schedule with prorated salaries and clubs would combine to lose $640,000 for each additional game. The union has questioned the accounting.

MLB’s offer called for spring training to resume in mid-June and for the season to start around the Fourth of July. The club proposal would take the prorated salaries and reduce them again in a sliding scale. Those at the $563,500 minimum would get about 47% and those at the top -- led by Mike Trout and Gerrit Cole at $36 million -- would receive less than 23%. Management proposed $200 million of salaries would be contingent on the postseason’s completion.

All players would have the right to opt out of the season under the union plan. Those who meet qualifications for high risk or reside with a person who qualifies as high risk would receive salary and major league service. Others who opt out would receive major league service time but no salary.

If the postseason is not held because of a second wave, the union plan calls for $100 million in salary to be deferred with interest, payable in November 2021 and November 2022. Only players whose original 2020 salaries were $10 million or more would be subject to having money deferred.

The union estimates high-payroll teams would have up to $7 million in payroll relief, the person said.

By RONALD BLUM - Associated PressNEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball players ignored claims by clubs that they need to take additional pay cuts, instead proposing they receive a far higher percentage of salaries and a commit to a longer schedule as part of a counteroffer to start the coronavirus-delayed season.Players proposed a 114-game regular season Sunday, up from 82 in management’s offer, a person familiar with the plan told The Associated Press. Done that way, the World Series could extend past Thanksgiving.The person spoke on condition of anonymity because no details were announced.Opening day would be June 30 and the regular season would end Oct. 31, nearly five weeks after the Sept. 27 conclusion that MLB’s proposal stuck to from the season’s original schedule. The union offered scheduling flexibility to include more doubleheaders as baseball crams the games into 123 days, leaving little room for days off.MLB’s proposal Tuesday would lower 2020 salaries from about $4 billion to approximately $1.2 billion. The union’s offer would have salaries total about $2.8 billion.The plan was given to MLB during an 80-minute digital meeting among Commissioner Rob Manfred, deputy commissioner Dan Halem, union head Tony Clark and union chief negotiator Bruce Meyer. The meeting was contentious, a person familiar with it said.Like MLB, the union would increase postseason teams from 10 to 14. But unlike MLB, the players’ proposal would extend the postseason about a month past its usual end. MLB has said it is worried about a second wave of the coronavirus in the autumn.While management proposed an expanded postseason for 2020 only, the union offered it for this year and next.Players proposed new events that could increase revenue, such as a postseason or offseason All-Star Game and/or Home Run Derby, to wear broadcast microphones on the field and participate in television programming away from ballparks.They also asked for $100 million more in salary to be advanced during the resumption of spring training.A player would receive about 70% of his salary, or 114/162nds, under the union plan.The union and MLB agreed March 26 that players would receive prorated shares of salaries, part of the deal in which if the season is scrapped each player was guaranteed service time for 2020 matching what the player earned in 2019. The union also was guaranteed $170 million in salary advances.While the union says salaries were dealt with then, that agreement covered only games in regular-season ballparks and with fans. The deal called for “good faith” negotiations for games without fans or at neutral sites.MLB told the union that players would get 89% of revenue in an 82-game schedule with prorated salaries and clubs would combine to lose $640,000 for each additional game. The union has questioned the accounting.MLB’s offer called for spring training to resume in mid-June and for the season to start around the Fourth of July. The club proposal would take the prorated salaries and reduce them again in a sliding scale. Those at the $563,500 minimum would get about 47% and those at the top -- led by Mike Trout and Gerrit Cole at $36 million -- would receive less than 23%. Management proposed $200 million of salaries would be contingent on the postseason’s completion.All players would have the right to opt out of the season under the union plan. Those who meet qualifications for high risk or reside with a person who qualifies as high risk would receive salary and major league service. Others who opt out would receive major league service time but no salary.If the postseason is not held because of a second wave, the union plan calls for $100 million in salary to be deferred with interest, payable in November 2021 and November 2022. Only players whose original 2020 salaries were $10 million or more would be subject to having money deferred.The union estimates high-payroll teams would have up to $7 million in payroll relief, the person said.

AP source: MLB players offer 114-game season, no more $ cuts

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The jersey-wearing camaraderie. The scent of sizzling sausages. The buzz before a big game.

The distinctive atmosphere of live sports, that feeling in the air, will return in time as pandemic restrictions are eased. But will that very air be safe in a closed arena with other fans in attendance?

The billions of dollars spent on state-of-the-art sports facilities over the last quarter-century have made high-efficiency air filtration systems more common, thanks in part to the pursuit of green and healthy building certifications. Upgrades will likely increase in the post-coronavirus era, too.

The problem is that even the cleanest of air can’t keep this particular virus from spreading; if someone coughs or sneezes, those droplets are in the air. That means outdoor ballparks have high contaminant potential, too.

“Most of the real risk is going to be short-distance transmission, people sitting within two, three or four seats of each other,” said Ryan Demmer, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health. “It’s not really about the virus spreading up, getting into the ventilation system and then getting blown out to the entire stadium because this virus doesn’t seem to transmit that way. It doesn’t aerosolize that well.”

The three hours spent in proximity to thousands of others is part of the fan experience. It’s also why major sports leagues have been discussing plans to reopen in empty venues, for now. High-touch areas with the potential to spread the virus — called fomite transmission — are plentiful at the ballgame, of course. Door handles. Stair rails. Restroom fixtures. Concession stands.

Hand washing by now has become a societal norm, but disinfectant arsenals need to be brought up to speed, too.

“I can’t really find good hand sanitizer easily in stores. So think about trying to scale that up, so everybody who comes into U.S. Bank Stadium gets a little bottle of Purel. Things like that can be modestly helpful,” Demmer said.

There is much work to be done. Vigilant sanitizing of the frequent-touch surfaces will be a must. Ramped-up rapid testing capability during pre-entry screening could become common for fans. Minimizing concourse and entry bottlenecks, and maintaining space between non-familial attendees, could be mandatory. Mask-wearing requirements? Maybe.

Most experts, including those at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, believe the primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is close person-to-person contact through breathing, coughing or sneezing but there’s no consensus on some of the details.

“There’s still widespread disagreement between experts on which mode of transmission dominates for influenza. So the likelihood of us figuring this out soon for this virus is low,” said Joe Allen, director of the Healthy Buildings Program and an assistant professor at Harvard’s School of Public Health. “We may never figure it out, but I also think it’s irrelevant because it’s a pandemic and we should be guarding against all of them.”

The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers designed the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) scale to measure a filtration system’s effectiveness (from 1-16) at capturing microscopic airborne particles that can make people sick. Not just viruses, but dust, pollen, mold and bacteria. Most experts recommend a MERV rating of 13 or higher, the minimum standard for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

An emerging technology in this area is called bipolar ionization. Connecticut-based AtmosAir has a bipolar ionization air treatment system in about 40 sports venues. Staples Center in Los Angeles was one of the first major sports customers. TD Garden in Boston and Bridgestone Arena in Nashville are among the others who’ve signed on.

The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority approved last year a 10-year contract for a little more than $1 million with AtmosAir to install its system in U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the Vikings and the first indoor NFL stadium to use it. The building, which measures 1.8 million square feet, has 53 air handling units with AtmosAir tubes installed, including 30 in the seating bowl.

The ions act like fresh air, reducing the amount of outside air needed to be introduced for the cleansing process. The protein spikes in the coronavirus particles make them easier to catch and kill, said Philip Tierno, a New York University School of Medicine professor of microbiology and pathology.

Said AtmosAir founder and CEO Steve Levine: “We’re never going to create a mountaintop, but we’re going to put in maybe three to four times the ions over the ambient air and then let those ions attack different pollutants in the air. The ions grab onto particles and spores and make them bigger and heavier, so they’re much easier to filter out of the air.”

The next time fans do pass through the turnstiles, in a few weeks or a few months, in most cases they will probably encounter an unprecedented level of cleanliness.

“There will be some controls that are visible, extra cleaning and disinfection, but some of it will be invisible, like for what’s happening in the air handling system,” said Allen, the Harvard professor. “The consumers will decide when they feel comfortable going back, and that’s going to depend on what strategies are put in place in these venues and stadiums and arenas and, most importantly, how well these organizations communicate that to the paying public.”

By DAVE CAMPBELL - Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The jersey-wearing camaraderie. The scent of sizzling sausages. The buzz before a big game.The distinctive atmosphere of live sports, that feeling in the air, will return in time as pandemic restrictions are eased. But will that very air be safe in a closed arena with other fans in attendance?The billions of dollars spent on state-of-the-art sports facilities over the last quarter-century have made high-efficiency air filtration systems more common, thanks in part to the pursuit of green and healthy building certifications. Upgrades will likely increase in the post-coronavirus era, too.The problem is that even the cleanest of air can’t keep this particular virus from spreading; if someone coughs or sneezes, those droplets are in the air. That means outdoor ballparks have high contaminant potential, too.“Most of the real risk is going to be short-distance transmission, people sitting within two, three or four seats of each other,” said Ryan Demmer, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health. “It’s not really about the virus spreading up, getting into the ventilation system and then getting blown out to the entire stadium because this virus doesn’t seem to transmit that way. It doesn’t aerosolize that well.”The three hours spent in proximity to thousands of others is part of the fan experience. It’s also why major sports leagues have been discussing plans to reopen in empty venues, for now. High-touch areas with the potential to spread the virus — called fomite transmission — are plentiful at the ballgame, of course. Door handles. Stair rails. Restroom fixtures. Concession stands.Hand washing by now has become a societal norm, but disinfectant arsenals need to be brought up to speed, too.“I can’t really find good hand sanitizer easily in stores. So think about trying to scale that up, so everybody who comes into U.S. Bank Stadium gets a little bottle of Purel. Things like that can be modestly helpful,” Demmer said.There is much work to be done. Vigilant sanitizing of the frequent-touch surfaces will be a must. Ramped-up rapid testing capability during pre-entry screening could become common for fans. Minimizing concourse and entry bottlenecks, and maintaining space between non-familial attendees, could be mandatory. Mask-wearing requirements? Maybe.Most experts, including those at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, believe the primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is close person-to-person contact through breathing, coughing or sneezing but there’s no consensus on some of the details.“There’s still widespread disagreement between experts on which mode of transmission dominates for influenza. So the likelihood of us figuring this out soon for this virus is low,” said Joe Allen, director of the Healthy Buildings Program and an assistant professor at Harvard’s School of Public Health. “We may never figure it out, but I also think it’s irrelevant because it’s a pandemic and we should be guarding against all of them.”Including, of course, the air.The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers designed the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) scale to measure a filtration system’s effectiveness (from 1-16) at capturing microscopic airborne particles that can make people sick. Not just viruses, but dust, pollen, mold and bacteria. Most experts recommend a MERV rating of 13 or higher, the minimum standard for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.An emerging technology in this area is called bipolar ionization. Connecticut-based AtmosAir has a bipolar ionization air treatment system in about 40 sports venues. Staples Center in Los Angeles was one of the first major sports customers. TD Garden in Boston and Bridgestone Arena in Nashville are among the others who’ve signed on.The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority approved last year a 10-year contract for a little more than $1 million with AtmosAir to install its system in U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the Vikings and the first indoor NFL stadium to use it. The building, which measures 1.8 million square feet, has 53 air handling units with AtmosAir tubes installed, including 30 in the seating bowl.The ions act like fresh air, reducing the amount of outside air needed to be introduced for the cleansing process. The protein spikes in the coronavirus particles make them easier to catch and kill, said Philip Tierno, a New York University School of Medicine professor of microbiology and pathology.Said AtmosAir founder and CEO Steve Levine: “We’re never going to create a mountaintop, but we’re going to put in maybe three to four times the ions over the ambient air and then let those ions attack different pollutants in the air. The ions grab onto particles and spores and make them bigger and heavier, so they’re much easier to filter out of the air.”The next time fans do pass through the turnstiles, in a few weeks or a few months, in most cases they will probably encounter an unprecedented level of cleanliness.“There will be some controls that are visible, extra cleaning and disinfection, but some of it will be invisible, like for what’s happening in the air handling system,” said Allen, the Harvard professor. “The consumers will decide when they feel comfortable going back, and that’s going to depend on what strategies are put in place in these venues and stadiums and arenas and, most importantly, how well these organizations communicate that to the paying public.”

Virus-proofing sports facilities presents a big challenge

BLAIR, Neb. (AP) - The teenage driver of an SUV that crashed last summer in eastern Nebraska, killing a passenger, was sentenced Wednesday to 3 1/2 years of probation.

Dylan Maguire, who was 14 at the time of the crash, appeared in court for a hearing before Washington County Juvenile Judge Francis W. Barron III. Maguire was sentenced for motor vehicle homicide reckless driving, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/crime/washington-county-teen-gets-nearly-3-years-of-probation-in-connection-with-girls-death/article_fd48c1b7-6d1c-52eb-910c-b063b3bbd943.html" target="_blank">the Omaha World-Herald</a>.

The length of probation coincides with Maguire's 19th birthday. Barron also ordered the teen to perform 200 hours of community service and write a letter of apology to the family of the teen who died.

Prosecutors dismissed three counts of second-degree assault, according to court documents.

The crash in Washington County killed 14-year-old Heidy Martinez on July 5, 2019.

Officials said the Chevrolet SUV was going south when the driver lost control of the vehicle, which then entered a cornfield on the east side of the road and rolled.

BLAIR, Neb. (AP) - The teenage driver of an SUV that crashed last summer in eastern Nebraska, killing a passenger, was sentenced Wednesday to 3 1/2 years of probation.Dylan Maguire, who was 14 at the time of the crash, appeared in court for a hearing before Washington County Juvenile Judge Francis W. Barron III. Maguire was sentenced for motor vehicle homicide reckless driving, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/crime/washington-county-teen-gets-nearly-3-years-of-probation-in-connection-with-girls-death/article_fd48c1b7-6d1c-52eb-910c-b063b3bbd943.html" target="_blank">the Omaha World-Herald</a>.The length of probation coincides with Maguire's 19th birthday. Barron also ordered the teen to perform 200 hours of community service and write a letter of apology to the family of the teen who died.Prosecutors dismissed three counts of second-degree assault, according to court documents.The crash in Washington County killed 14-year-old Heidy Martinez on July 5, 2019.Officials said the Chevrolet SUV was going south when the driver lost control of the vehicle, which then entered a cornfield on the east side of the road and rolled.

Nebraska teen gets probation for crash that killed girl

JEWELL, Kan. (AP) - A Nebraska truck driver has been killed in a crash in north-central Kansas, authorities there said.

JEWELL, Kan. (AP) - A Nebraska truck driver has been killed in a crash in north-central Kansas, authorities there said.The crash happened around noon Wednesday on K-14 Highway in rural Jewell County, killing Scott Sell, 50, of Hastings, Nebraska, Salina radio station KSAL-AM&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksal.com/nebraska-man-killed-in-kansas-crash/" target="_blank">reported</a>.The Kansas Highway Patrol said its investigation showed that the southbound semitrailer Sell was driving veered onto the highway shoulder, overcorrected and went into the opposite ditch. The truck overturned in a pasture, and Sell was pronounced dead at the scene.

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