A North Platte man is in jail after he was allegedly involved in a string of thefts in Lincoln County.

According to North Platte police, on November 22, officers responded to the 800 Block of North Jeffers for a theft. 

 Upon arrival, officers spoke with the owner who advised a male subject, identified as 21-year-old Tietyss Dieter, had broken into a gaming machine and taken approximately $30 from the machine. 

Police say officers were able to watch security footage and identify Dieter as the suspect. 

 According to police, the video showed Dieter using a tool to pry open the machine and take the money out.  Dieter caused significant damage to the machine during the incident. 

 On November 30, 2020, Officers received a call from a business owner in the 1800 Block of West A, in regards to an employee theft. 

Police say officers spoke with the owner, who reported that several money deposits were missing and were never deposited at the bank.  

During the investigation, police say officers were able to determine that over $6,000 was missing, and probable cause was established to arrest Dieter, an employee. 

 On December 1, 2020, officers responded to the 900 Block of South Bryan for a theft from a vehicle. 

 Officers learned that sometime overnight, a vehicle had been gone through and a credit card was stolen.  The victim indicated that she received a notification that the stolen card had been declined at a business in the 1400 Block of Rodeo Road, earlier this morning. 

Police say officers were able to review security footage from the business, and Dieter was, again, identified as the suspect attempting to use the stolen credit card. 

 On December 1, 2020, Officers executed a search warrant at a residence, in the 600 Block of North Miles, where Dieter was taken into custody without incident. 

 Dieter was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of theft by unlawful taking over $5,000, theft by unlawful taking $0-$500, criminal mischief $0-$500, and unauthorized use of a financial transaction device.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606965672309.jpeg" alt="Tietyss Dieter" />
 <figcaption>Tietyss Dieter</figcaption>
 </figure>A North Platte man is in jail after he was allegedly involved in a string of thefts in Lincoln County.According to North Platte police, on November 22, officers responded to the 800 Block of North Jeffers for a theft. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the owner who advised a male subject, identified as 21-year-old Tietyss Dieter, had broken into a gaming machine and taken approximately $30 from the machine. Police say officers were able to watch security footage and identify Dieter as the suspect. According to police, the video showed Dieter using a tool to pry open the machine and take the money out. Dieter caused significant damage to the machine during the incident. On November 30, 2020, Officers received a call from a business owner in the 1800 Block of West A, in regards to an employee theft. Police say officers spoke with the owner, who reported that several money deposits were missing and were never deposited at the bank. During the investigation, police say officers were able to determine that over $6,000 was missing, and probable cause was established to arrest Dieter, an employee. On December 1, 2020, officers responded to the 900 Block of South Bryan for a theft from a vehicle. Officers learned that sometime overnight, a vehicle had been gone through and a credit card was stolen. The victim indicated that she received a notification that the stolen card had been declined at a business in the 1400 Block of Rodeo Road, earlier this morning. Police say officers were able to review security footage from the business, and Dieter was, again, identified as the suspect attempting to use the stolen credit card. On December 1, 2020, Officers executed a search warrant at a residence, in the 600 Block of North Miles, where Dieter was taken into custody without incident. Dieter was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of theft by unlawful taking over $5,000, theft by unlawful taking $0-$500, criminal mischief $0-$500, and unauthorized use of a financial transaction device.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte man accused of multiple thefts

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - U.S. hospitals slammed with COVID-19 patients are trying to lure nurses and doctors out of retirement, recruiting students and new graduates who have yet to earn their licenses and offering eye-popping salaries in a desperate bid to ease staffing shortages.

With the virus surging from coast to coast, the number of patients in the hospital with the virus has more than doubled over the past month to a record high of nearly 100,000, pushing medical centers and health care workers to the breaking point. Nurses are increasingly burned out and getting sick on the job, and the stress on the nation's medical system prompted a dire warning from the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"The reality is December and January and February are going to be rough times. I actually believe they are going to be the most difficult time in the public health history of this nation," Dr. Robert Redfield said.

Governors in hard-hit states like Wisconsin and Nebraska are making it easier for retired nurses to come back, including by waiving licensing requirements and fees, though it can be a tough sell for older nurses, who would be in more danger than many of their colleagues if they contracted the virus.

Some are taking jobs that don't involve working directly with patients to free up front-line nurses, McMillan said.

Iowa is allowing temporary, emergency licenses for new nurses who have met the state's educational requirements but haven't yet taken the state licensing exam. Some Minnesota hospitals are offering winter internships to nursing students to boost their staffs. The internships are typically offered in the summer but were canceled this year because of COVID-19.

Methodist Hospital in Minneapolis will place 25 interns for one to two months to work with COVID-19 patients, though certain tasks will remain off-limits, such as inserting IVs or urinary catheters, said Tina Kvalheim, a nurse who runs the program.

"They'll be fully supported in their roles so that our patients receive the best possible, safe care," Kvalheim said..

Landon Brown, 21, of Des Moines, Iowa, a senior nursing student at Minnesota State University, Mankato, recently accepted an internship at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato. He was assigned to the pediatric unit's medical-surgical area but said he might come across patients with the coronavirus.

Brown's resolve to help patients as a nurse was reaffirmed after his 90-year-old grandfather contracted the virus and died over the weekend.

"The staff that he had were great, and they really took a lot of pressure off of my folks and my family," he said. "I think that if I can be that for another family, that would be great."

The University of Iowa's College of Nursing is also trying to get graduates into the workforce quickly. It worked to fast-track students' transcripts to the Iowa Board of Nursing so they could get licensed sooner upon graduating, said Anita Nicholson, associate dean for undergraduate programs.

Nicholson said the college also scheduled senior internships earlier than normal and created a program that allows students to gain hospital experience under a nurse's supervision. Those students aren't caring for coronavirus patients, but their work frees up nurses to do so, Nicholson said.

"The sooner we can get our graduates out and into the workforce, the better," she said.

Wausau, Wisconsin-based Aspirus Health Care is offering signing bonuses of up to $15,000 for nurses with a year of experience.

Hospitals also are turning to nurses who travel from state to state. But that's expensive, because hospitals around the country are competing for them, driving salaries as high as $6,200 per week, according to postings for travel nursing jobs.

April Hansen, executive vice president at San Diego-based Aya Healthcare, said there are now 31,000 openings for travel nurses, more than twice the number being sought when the pandemic surged in the spring.

"It is crazy," Hansen said. "It doesn't matter if you are rural or urban, if you are an Indian health facility or an academic medical center or anything in between. ... All facilities are experiencing increased demand right now."

Nurses who work in intensive care and on medical-surgical floors are the most in demand. Employers also are willing to pay extra for nurses who can show up on short notice and work 48 or 60 hours per week instead of the standard 36.

Laura Cutolo, a 32-year-old emergency room and ICU nurse from Gilbert, Arizona, began travel nursing when the pandemic began, landing in New York during the deadliest stretch of the U.S. outbreak last spring. She is now working in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and soon will return to New York.

She said she hopes her work will be an example to her children, now 2 and 5, when the crisis passes into history and they read about it someday.

"If they ask me, 'Where were you?' I can be proud of where I was and what I did," Cutolo said.

"I don't even practice anymore, and I've gotten lots of emails asking me to travel across the country to work in ERs," said Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association.

The outbreak in the U.S. is blamed for more than 270,000 deaths and 13.8 million confirmed infections. New cases are running at over 160,000 a day on average, and deaths are up to more than 1,500 a day, a level seen back in May, during the crisis in the New York City area. Several states reported huge numbers of new cases Wednesday, including a combined 40,000 in California, Illinois and Florida alone.

States are seeing record-breaking surges in deaths, including Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky in the middle of the country. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the virus is "spreading like wildfire."

A COVID-19 vaccine is expected to become available in a few weeks, and health care workers are likely to be given priority for the first shots. That could make it easier for hospitals to recruit help.

To make room for the sickest, hard-hit institutions are sending home some COVID-19 patients who otherwise would have been kept in the hospital. They are also canceling elective surgeries or sending adult non-COVID-19 patients to pediatric hospitals.

A hospital system in Idaho is sending some COVID-19 patients home with iPads, supplemental oxygen, blood pressure cuffs and oxygen monitors so they can finish recovering in their own beds. The computer tablets enable nurses to check in with them, and the oxygen monitors automatically send back vital information.

Across the U.S., hospitals are converting cafeterias, waiting rooms, even a parking garage to patient treatment areas. Some states are opening field hospitals.

But that does nothing to ease the staffing shortage, especially in rural areas where officials say many people aren't taking basic precautions against the virus.

Dr. Eli Perencevich, an epidemiology and internal medicine professor at the University of Iowa, said health care workers are paying the price for other people's refusal to wear masks.

"It's sending everyone to war, really," he said. "We've decided as a society that we're going to take all the people in our health care system and pummel them because we have some insane idea about what freedom really is."

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - U.S. hospitals slammed with COVID-19 patients are trying to lure nurses and doctors out of retirement, recruiting students and new graduates who have yet to earn their licenses and offering eye-popping salaries in a desperate bid to ease staffing shortages.With the virus surging from coast to coast, the number of patients in the hospital with the virus has more than doubled over the past month to a record high of nearly 100,000, pushing medical centers and health care workers to the breaking point. Nurses are increasingly burned out and getting sick on the job, and the stress on the nation's medical system prompted a dire warning from the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention."The reality is December and January and February are going to be rough times. I actually believe they are going to be the most difficult time in the public health history of this nation," Dr. Robert Redfield said.Governors in hard-hit states like Wisconsin and Nebraska are making it easier for retired nurses to come back, including by waiving licensing requirements and fees, though it can be a tough sell for older nurses, who would be in more danger than many of their colleagues if they contracted the virus.Some are taking jobs that don't involve working directly with patients to free up front-line nurses, McMillan said.Iowa is allowing temporary, emergency licenses for new nurses who have met the state's educational requirements but haven't yet taken the state licensing exam. Some Minnesota hospitals are offering winter internships to nursing students to boost their staffs. The internships are typically offered in the summer but were canceled this year because of COVID-19.Methodist Hospital in Minneapolis will place 25 interns for one to two months to work with COVID-19 patients, though certain tasks will remain off-limits, such as inserting IVs or urinary catheters, said Tina Kvalheim, a nurse who runs the program."They'll be fully supported in their roles so that our patients receive the best possible, safe care," Kvalheim said..Landon Brown, 21, of Des Moines, Iowa, a senior nursing student at Minnesota State University, Mankato, recently accepted an internship at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato. He was assigned to the pediatric unit's medical-surgical area but said he might come across patients with the coronavirus.Brown's resolve to help patients as a nurse was reaffirmed after his 90-year-old grandfather contracted the virus and died over the weekend."The staff that he had were great, and they really took a lot of pressure off of my folks and my family," he said. "I think that if I can be that for another family, that would be great."The University of Iowa's College of Nursing is also trying to get graduates into the workforce quickly. It worked to fast-track students' transcripts to the Iowa Board of Nursing so they could get licensed sooner upon graduating, said Anita Nicholson, associate dean for undergraduate programs.Nicholson said the college also scheduled senior internships earlier than normal and created a program that allows students to gain hospital experience under a nurse's supervision. Those students aren't caring for coronavirus patients, but their work frees up nurses to do so, Nicholson said."The sooner we can get our graduates out and into the workforce, the better," she said.Wausau, Wisconsin-based Aspirus Health Care is offering signing bonuses of up to $15,000 for nurses with a year of experience.Hospitals also are turning to nurses who travel from state to state. But that's expensive, because hospitals around the country are competing for them, driving salaries as high as $6,200 per week, according to postings for travel nursing jobs.April Hansen, executive vice president at San Diego-based Aya Healthcare, said there are now 31,000 openings for travel nurses, more than twice the number being sought when the pandemic surged in the spring."It is crazy," Hansen said. "It doesn't matter if you are rural or urban, if you are an Indian health facility or an academic medical center or anything in between. ... All facilities are experiencing increased demand right now."Nurses who work in intensive care and on medical-surgical floors are the most in demand. Employers also are willing to pay extra for nurses who can show up on short notice and work 48 or 60 hours per week instead of the standard 36.Laura Cutolo, a 32-year-old emergency room and ICU nurse from Gilbert, Arizona, began travel nursing when the pandemic began, landing in New York during the deadliest stretch of the U.S. outbreak last spring. She is now working in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and soon will return to New York.She said she hopes her work will be an example to her children, now 2 and 5, when the crisis passes into history and they read about it someday."If they ask me, 'Where were you?' I can be proud of where I was and what I did," Cutolo said.Doctors are in demand, too."I don't even practice anymore, and I've gotten lots of emails asking me to travel across the country to work in ERs," said Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association.The outbreak in the U.S. is blamed for more than 270,000 deaths and 13.8 million confirmed infections. New cases are running at over 160,000 a day on average, and deaths are up to more than 1,500 a day, a level seen back in May, during the crisis in the New York City area. Several states reported huge numbers of new cases Wednesday, including a combined 40,000 in California, Illinois and Florida alone.States are seeing record-breaking surges in deaths, including Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky in the middle of the country. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the virus is "spreading like wildfire."A COVID-19 vaccine is expected to become available in a few weeks, and health care workers are likely to be given priority for the first shots. That could make it easier for hospitals to recruit help.To make room for the sickest, hard-hit institutions are sending home some COVID-19 patients who otherwise would have been kept in the hospital. They are also canceling elective surgeries or sending adult non-COVID-19 patients to pediatric hospitals.A hospital system in Idaho is sending some COVID-19 patients home with iPads, supplemental oxygen, blood pressure cuffs and oxygen monitors so they can finish recovering in their own beds. The computer tablets enable nurses to check in with them, and the oxygen monitors automatically send back vital information.Across the U.S., hospitals are converting cafeterias, waiting rooms, even a parking garage to patient treatment areas. Some states are opening field hospitals.But that does nothing to ease the staffing shortage, especially in rural areas where officials say many people aren't taking basic precautions against the virus.Dr. Eli Perencevich, an epidemiology and internal medicine professor at the University of Iowa, said health care workers are paying the price for other people's refusal to wear masks."It's sending everyone to war, really," he said. "We've decided as a society that we're going to take all the people in our health care system and pummel them because we have some insane idea about what freedom really is."

Nurses wanted: Swamped hospitals scramble for pandemic help

A Lincoln County man is in jail, accused of kidnapping and several other charges.

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, on December 2 at 3:40 a.m. an adult female called the Lincoln County 911 Center to advise she was abducted earlier in the evening at gunpoint and was now free. 

Deputies responded to the female’s location and spoke with her. The female alleged her ex-boyfriend forty-four-year old Robert Smith hid in the back seat of her car while she was at a friend’s house.  When the female got into her car Smith pulled a gun on her and told her to drive out to rural Lincoln County. 

 Mr. Smith eventually took the female out of Lincoln County for a couple of hours and then returned her back to his vehicle, which was parked near a friend's house. 

LCSO says the female victim was treated at Great Plains Health for non-life threating injuries.  

At around 9:30 a.m. a warrant for Smith’s arrest was issued for Kidnapping and Use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony. 

 LCSO says Smith’s vehicle was found empty in Hayes Center by the Nebraska State Patrol. 

According to LCSO, Smith was contacted via phone and eventually captured in Hayes Center by troopers at around 2:50 p.m. 

 Smith was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center. 

LCSO says the investigation in this matter is ongoing and additional charges are pending.

&nbsp;Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have brought a standoff of more than six hours to a safe conclusion in Hayes Center.

The situation began this morning when the Hayes County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible kidnapping that had occurred in Lincoln County during the evening hours of Tuesday, December 1. The suspect was believed to be in Hayes Center. NSP was notified just after 6:00 a.m. today and troopers proceeded to the area to assist.

Prior to NSP’s involvement, the victim was safely located, but the suspect, identified as Robert Smith, 44, of Hershey, Nebraska, remained at large. Just after 8:00 a.m., troopers identified the suspect’s believed location to be 315 Hayes Avenue in Hayes Center. The suspect was believed to be armed.

NSP SWAT was activated and responded to the scene. Authorities coordinated with Hayes Center Public Schools to ensure that those at the school were safe, given the location of the situation, approximately three blocks from the school.

After repeated communication with NSP negotiators for hours, Smith voluntarily exited the home at 2:45 p.m. and was taken into custody without incident. Smith was arrested for kidnapping and use of a weapon to commit a felony. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606965222763.jpeg" alt="Robert Smith" />
 <figcaption>Robert Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>A Lincoln County man is in jail, accused of kidnapping and several other charges.According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, on December 2 at 3:40 a.m. an adult female called the Lincoln County 911 Center to advise she was abducted earlier in the evening at gunpoint and was now free. Deputies responded to the female’s location and spoke with her. The female alleged her ex-boyfriend forty-four-year old Robert Smith hid in the back seat of her car while she was at a friend’s house. When the female got into her car Smith pulled a gun on her and told her to drive out to rural Lincoln County. Mr. Smith eventually took the female out of Lincoln County for a couple of hours and then returned her back to his vehicle, which was parked near a friend's house. LCSO says the female victim was treated at Great Plains Health for non-life threating injuries. At around 9:30 a.m. a warrant for Smith’s arrest was issued for Kidnapping and Use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony. LCSO says Smith’s vehicle was found empty in Hayes Center by the Nebraska State Patrol. According to LCSO, Smith was contacted via phone and eventually captured in Hayes Center by troopers at around 2:50 p.m. Smith was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center. LCSO says the investigation in this matter is ongoing and additional charges are pending.From the Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have brought a standoff of more than six hours to a safe conclusion in Hayes Center.The situation began this morning when the Hayes County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible kidnapping that had occurred in Lincoln County during the evening hours of Tuesday, December 1. The suspect was believed to be in Hayes Center. NSP was notified just after 6:00 a.m. today and troopers proceeded to the area to assist.Prior to NSP’s involvement, the victim was safely located, but the suspect, identified as Robert Smith, 44, of Hershey, Nebraska, remained at large. Just after 8:00 a.m., troopers identified the suspect’s believed location to be 315 Hayes Avenue in Hayes Center. The suspect was believed to be armed.NSP SWAT was activated and responded to the scene. Authorities coordinated with Hayes Center Public Schools to ensure that those at the school were safe, given the location of the situation, approximately three blocks from the school.After repeated communication with NSP negotiators for hours, Smith voluntarily exited the home at 2:45 p.m. and was taken into custody without incident. Smith was arrested for kidnapping and use of a weapon to commit a felony. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

Lincoln County man accused of kidnappng ex-girlfriend

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A civil liberties group is dropping its lawsuit accusing the Nebraska prison system of fostering inhumane conditions, but it says it will continue to fight against overcrowding and perpetual understaffing of the state's lockups.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska and attorneys for the state this week filed a joint motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit. The move came after a judge in June denied the ACLU's request to certify the lawsuit as a class action.

The ACLU&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/318147ef69004fd0a55f4e1cf09707ec" target="_blank">filed the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;in 2017 on behalf of 11 prisoners against the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, its director, Scott Frakes, and various prison system officials. Class-action status would have extended the suit to include more than 5,000 inmates in the prison system.

The lawsuit alleged that the state's prison system violated inmates' constitutional rights through the excessive use of solitary confinement and through gross negligence of their medical and mental health issues. It also took issue with the system's persistent inmate overcrowding and "dangerous" understaffing.

David Fathi, the ACLU's lead attorney on the case and director of the group's national prison project, said Tuesday that the court agreed there were serious issues in Nebraska's prison system, but that its order denying class action certification forced a change in strategy.

"The work doesn't end here," Fathi said. "It takes a new direction. Until Nebraska gets serious about reducing overcrowding, problems will continue to plague the prison system."

Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts called the dismissal a win for taxpayers.

"It is a defeat for anti-public safety interests who have been seeking a mass release of inmates for years," Ricketts said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606928179709.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A civil liberties group is dropping its lawsuit accusing the Nebraska prison system of fostering inhumane conditions, but it says it will continue to fight against overcrowding and perpetual understaffing of the state's lockups.The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska and attorneys for the state this week filed a joint motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit. The move came after a judge in June denied the ACLU's request to certify the lawsuit as a class action.The ACLU&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/318147ef69004fd0a55f4e1cf09707ec" target="_blank">filed the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;in 2017 on behalf of 11 prisoners against the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, its director, Scott Frakes, and various prison system officials. Class-action status would have extended the suit to include more than 5,000 inmates in the prison system.The lawsuit alleged that the state's prison system violated inmates' constitutional rights through the excessive use of solitary confinement and through gross negligence of their medical and mental health issues. It also took issue with the system's persistent inmate overcrowding and "dangerous" understaffing.David Fathi, the ACLU's lead attorney on the case and director of the group's national prison project, said Tuesday that the court agreed there were serious issues in Nebraska's prison system, but that its order denying class action certification forced a change in strategy."The work doesn't end here," Fathi said. "It takes a new direction. Until Nebraska gets serious about reducing overcrowding, problems will continue to plague the prison system."Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts called the dismissal a win for taxpayers."It is a defeat for anti-public safety interests who have been seeking a mass release of inmates for years," Ricketts said.

ACLU agrees to drop lawsuit against Nebraska's prison system

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The number of deaths linked to the coronavirus jumped 62 in Nebraska on Tuesday as the state reported nearly 2,000 more cases of COVID-19.

The state reported 1,080 deaths and 1,787 new virus cases Tuesday to give Nebraska a total of 130,194 cases of the virus since the pandemic began.

The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Tuesday to 869 from the previous day's 907. That total is now more than 100 people lower than the record of 987 that was set on Nov. 20, but it remains nearly four times higher than the level it was at two months ago when 232 people were hospitalized.

Nebraska continued to have the sixth-highest rate of infection in the nation on Tuesday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 2,292.86 new cases per day on Nov. 17 to 1,783.71 new cases per day on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606926973513.png" alt="Photo: pixabay.com" />
 <figcaption>Photo: pixabay.com</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The number of deaths linked to the coronavirus jumped 62 in Nebraska on Tuesday as the state reported nearly 2,000 more cases of COVID-19.The state reported 1,080 deaths and 1,787 new virus cases Tuesday to give Nebraska a total of 130,194 cases of the virus since the pandemic began.The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Tuesday to 869 from the previous day's 907. That total is now more than 100 people lower than the record of 987 that was set on Nov. 20, but it remains nearly four times higher than the level it was at two months ago when 232 people were hospitalized.Nebraska continued to have the sixth-highest rate of infection in the nation on Tuesday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 2,292.86 new cases per day on Nov. 17 to 1,783.71 new cases per day on Tuesday.

Nebraska reports 62 new deaths and 1,787 virus cases Tuesday

Students at North Platte Community College are benefitting from a donation of about $50,000 worth of equipment from ASC Capacitors in Ogallala.&nbsp;

The equipment includes hydraulic pipe benders, hydraulic presses, an industrial hot water pressure washer, fuses and breakers, motor control pieces and parts, bearing punches, conduit and wire among many other things.&nbsp;

"If I were to buy some of these items, it would definitely eat into my budget," said Jake Elmshaeuser, NPCC electrical technology instructor. "Looking at the bigger picture – ASC's generosity is a plus for taxpayers because it saved a lot of expense for the college as a whole."&nbsp;

Electrical wasn't the only department to benefit from the donation. The college's automotive, auto body and heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration departments will use the equipment as well.&nbsp;

Chris Heilman took over as the president and chief operating officer of ASC in July. He said the donation was the result of a housecleaning project the company is working on. Much of the equipment has been in storage up to this point and is no longer needed by ASC.&nbsp;

"Instead of selling the items on eBay, we decided to reach out and see if the college could use some of it," Heilman said. "We're really happy to be able to do something for the community. We want to give back to those who have helped and supported us for so long, and we will continue to look for other opportunities to do that."&nbsp;

The management of ASC has a soft spot for community colleges. The company has partnered with NPCC for training in the past, and Rick Dupin, ASC's operations manager, is a community college alum.&nbsp;

"I think having NPCC in this region is absolutely critical," Dupin said. "We've had employees utilize it to brush up on both technical and leadership skills. Having an opportunity for higher education close by that's affordable is good for business and good for the community. Anything we can do to help control those costs is something we would want to do."&nbsp;

ASC (American Shizuki Corporation) has been the leading manufacturer of custom film and foil capacitors for over 70 years. Today, ASC capacitors are used in numerous applications worldwide, including wind and solar power conversion, variable speed motor drives, electronics, military and power conditioning.&nbsp;

More information about the company can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ascapacitor.com/home.html" target="_blank">ascapacitor.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606918982048.png" alt="Electrical Technology student Daniel Wardyn, of North Platte, puts together a conduit bender Tuesday at North Platte Community College. The equipment is part of a large donation by ASC Capacitors in Ogallala." />
 <figcaption>Electrical Technology student Daniel Wardyn, of North Platte, puts together a conduit bender Tuesday at North Platte Community College. The equipment is part of a large donation by ASC Capacitors in Ogallala.</figcaption>
 </figure>Students at North Platte Community College are benefitting from a donation of about $50,000 worth of equipment from ASC Capacitors in Ogallala.&nbsp;The equipment includes hydraulic pipe benders, hydraulic presses, an industrial hot water pressure washer, fuses and breakers, motor control pieces and parts, bearing punches, conduit and wire among many other things.&nbsp;"If I were to buy some of these items, it would definitely eat into my budget," said Jake Elmshaeuser, NPCC electrical technology instructor. "Looking at the bigger picture – ASC's generosity is a plus for taxpayers because it saved a lot of expense for the college as a whole."&nbsp;Electrical wasn't the only department to benefit from the donation. The college's automotive, auto body and heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration departments will use the equipment as well.&nbsp;Chris Heilman took over as the president and chief operating officer of ASC in July. He said the donation was the result of a housecleaning project the company is working on. Much of the equipment has been in storage up to this point and is no longer needed by ASC.&nbsp;"Instead of selling the items on eBay, we decided to reach out and see if the college could use some of it," Heilman said. "We're really happy to be able to do something for the community. We want to give back to those who have helped and supported us for so long, and we will continue to look for other opportunities to do that."&nbsp;The management of ASC has a soft spot for community colleges. The company has partnered with NPCC for training in the past, and Rick Dupin, ASC's operations manager, is a community college alum.&nbsp;"I think having NPCC in this region is absolutely critical," Dupin said. "We've had employees utilize it to brush up on both technical and leadership skills. Having an opportunity for higher education close by that's affordable is good for business and good for the community. Anything we can do to help control those costs is something we would want to do."&nbsp;ASC (American Shizuki Corporation) has been the leading manufacturer of custom film and foil capacitors for over 70 years. Today, ASC capacitors are used in numerous applications worldwide, including wind and solar power conversion, variable speed motor drives, electronics, military and power conditioning.&nbsp;More information about the company can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ascapacitor.com/home.html" target="_blank">ascapacitor.com</a>.

Ogallala business donates to North Platte Community College

There is an old saying, “it’s always darkest before the dawn.”&nbsp; It has two meanings. &nbsp;The first is that, despite difficulties, there is hope on the horizon.&nbsp; The second meaning is that circumstances can be at their very worst right before things get better.&nbsp; As we enter December, there are reasons to hope an effective vaccine will become available soon—on a limited basis even this month.&nbsp; At the same time, we may be entering the toughest stretch of the pandemic this winter as people head indoors. &nbsp;It’s time for all of us to put our trademark Nebraska grit and determination to work as we buckle up for the coming months of the pandemic.

On May 15, 2020 the Trump Administration announced Operation Warp Speed to rapidly develop a coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; The program appears to be making remarkable progress.&nbsp; Two vaccines, one from Pfizer and one from Moderna, have proven to be highly effective in clinical trials. &nbsp;Both of the vaccines are being reviewed by regulatory agencies.&nbsp; It’s likely each of them will be authorized for emergency use by mid-December.&nbsp; Manufacturers have already produced millions of doses.&nbsp; Perhaps as many as 40 million doses will be available this month.&nbsp;

Initially, vaccinations will be limited to priority groups, such as healthcare workers at hospitals and long-term care facilities.&nbsp; As manufacturing ramps up in 2021, availability will expand to more groups.&nbsp; Vaccines are expected to be widely available to the public by late spring.&nbsp; The State of Nebraska has posted its vaccination plan on the Department of Health and Human services website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf</a>.

While the vaccine development offers hope, it’s not time to relax our guard.&nbsp; The coronavirus is still spreading throughout our communities.&nbsp; In fact, December could be a very challenging month. &nbsp;As the weather gets colder, Nebraskans will be spending more time indoors.&nbsp; Typically, viruses spread more easily this time of year as people stay inside.&nbsp; Over the next several weeks, it will be extremely important to avoid the “Three Cs”.&nbsp; This means avoiding crowded places, close contacts, and confined spaces.

Christmas season is usually a time to shop for gifts, host parties, and travel to be with family. &nbsp;Churches and synagogues have special services. &nbsp;Friends go ice skating or caroling together.&nbsp; Folks go to the movies to see newly released blockbusters.&nbsp;

We’ll need to adjust our holiday traditions in 2020 in light of the pandemic.&nbsp; Consider postponing holiday parties at work or inviting over fewer friends.&nbsp; Be thoughtful about family get-togethers to protect at-risk family members.

As Nebraskans shop Main Street to support local retailers during the holiday season, it will be especially important to use tools to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp; When you go out, wear a mask.&nbsp; Shop alone instead of taking the kids with you.&nbsp; Follow the six-foot rule when shopping.&nbsp; When possible, shop online.&nbsp; &nbsp;

This isn’t the year to fight through a cold or cough while keeping with your usual routine.&nbsp; Stay home when sick. &nbsp;Quarantine immediately if you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive or shown symptoms of the coronavirus.&nbsp; Take advantage of the opportunity for free testing.&nbsp; Test Nebraska will be in operation during the holiday season.&nbsp; Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C673586ef7d7a49f2217b08d896303995%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637424481157721050%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=rNCfLGNtjKk8Jv%2FJG%2F65kTNl9velDX38lgAcwJgRboU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to fill out a short health assessment and schedule a time to get tested.&nbsp; In November, Test Nebraska delivered results 24-48 hours after the initial swab.

Nebraska’s coronavirus hospitalizations have stabilized over the past week, but our hospitals continue to care for high numbers of patients. &nbsp;It’s important that we all take responsibility for slowing the spread of the virus to protect our healthcare system and support our healthcare workers.&nbsp; As I’ve announced, if Nebraska reaches 25% of staffed hospital beds with coronavirus patients in them, we’ll move into the “red” phase of our pandemic response plan.&nbsp; If this happens, additional restrictions will take effect to help protect our hospital capacity.&nbsp; These restrictions include, but are not limited to...

Nebraskans should prepare for the possibility of these restrictions taking effect before the end of the year if hospitalizations grow.

If you have questions about Nebraska’s coronavirus phases or vaccination plan, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Progress on the vaccines is reason to hope, but I want to remind everyone that it will still be several months before widespread vaccination can take place.&nbsp; Until then, it’s critically important for all of us to stay focused on doing what’s right to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579024294426.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsThere is an old saying, “it’s always darkest before the dawn.”&nbsp; It has two meanings. &nbsp;The first is that, despite difficulties, there is hope on the horizon.&nbsp; The second meaning is that circumstances can be at their very worst right before things get better.&nbsp; As we enter December, there are reasons to hope an effective vaccine will become available soon—on a limited basis even this month.&nbsp; At the same time, we may be entering the toughest stretch of the pandemic this winter as people head indoors. &nbsp;It’s time for all of us to put our trademark Nebraska grit and determination to work as we buckle up for the coming months of the pandemic.On May 15, 2020 the Trump Administration announced Operation Warp Speed to rapidly develop a coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; The program appears to be making remarkable progress.&nbsp; Two vaccines, one from Pfizer and one from Moderna, have proven to be highly effective in clinical trials. &nbsp;Both of the vaccines are being reviewed by regulatory agencies.&nbsp; It’s likely each of them will be authorized for emergency use by mid-December.&nbsp; Manufacturers have already produced millions of doses.&nbsp; Perhaps as many as 40 million doses will be available this month.&nbsp;Initially, vaccinations will be limited to priority groups, such as healthcare workers at hospitals and long-term care facilities.&nbsp; As manufacturing ramps up in 2021, availability will expand to more groups.&nbsp; Vaccines are expected to be widely available to the public by late spring.&nbsp; The State of Nebraska has posted its vaccination plan on the Department of Health and Human services website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf</a>.While the vaccine development offers hope, it’s not time to relax our guard.&nbsp; The coronavirus is still spreading throughout our communities.&nbsp; In fact, December could be a very challenging month. &nbsp;As the weather gets colder, Nebraskans will be spending more time indoors.&nbsp; Typically, viruses spread more easily this time of year as people stay inside.&nbsp; Over the next several weeks, it will be extremely important to avoid the “Three Cs”.&nbsp; This means avoiding crowded places, close contacts, and confined spaces.Christmas season is usually a time to shop for gifts, host parties, and travel to be with family. &nbsp;Churches and synagogues have special services. &nbsp;Friends go ice skating or caroling together.&nbsp; Folks go to the movies to see newly released blockbusters.&nbsp;We’ll need to adjust our holiday traditions in 2020 in light of the pandemic.&nbsp; Consider postponing holiday parties at work or inviting over fewer friends.&nbsp; Be thoughtful about family get-togethers to protect at-risk family members.As Nebraskans shop Main Street to support local retailers during the holiday season, it will be especially important to use tools to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp; When you go out, wear a mask.&nbsp; Shop alone instead of taking the kids with you.&nbsp; Follow the six-foot rule when shopping.&nbsp; When possible, shop online.&nbsp; &nbsp;This isn’t the year to fight through a cold or cough while keeping with your usual routine.&nbsp; Stay home when sick. &nbsp;Quarantine immediately if you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive or shown symptoms of the coronavirus.&nbsp; Take advantage of the opportunity for free testing.&nbsp; Test Nebraska will be in operation during the holiday season.&nbsp; Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C673586ef7d7a49f2217b08d896303995%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637424481157721050%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=rNCfLGNtjKk8Jv%2FJG%2F65kTNl9velDX38lgAcwJgRboU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to fill out a short health assessment and schedule a time to get tested.&nbsp; In November, Test Nebraska delivered results 24-48 hours after the initial swab.Nebraska’s coronavirus hospitalizations have stabilized over the past week, but our hospitals continue to care for high numbers of patients. &nbsp;It’s important that we all take responsibility for slowing the spread of the virus to protect our healthcare system and support our healthcare workers.&nbsp; As I’ve announced, if Nebraska reaches 25% of staffed hospital beds with coronavirus patients in them, we’ll move into the “red” phase of our pandemic response plan.&nbsp; If this happens, additional restrictions will take effect to help protect our hospital capacity.&nbsp; These restrictions include, but are not limited to...<ul>
 <li>Returning to the 10-person rule for indoor gatherings and wedding/funeral receptions.</li><li>Limiting outdoor gatherings to 25 people.</li><li>Bars moving to carry-out, delivery, and drive-thru only.</li><li>Only licensed restaurants offering dine-in services with restricted hours.</li>
 </ul>Nebraskans should prepare for the possibility of these restrictions taking effect before the end of the year if hospitalizations grow.If you have questions about Nebraska’s coronavirus phases or vaccination plan, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Progress on the vaccines is reason to hope, but I want to remind everyone that it will still be several months before widespread vaccination can take place.&nbsp; Until then, it’s critically important for all of us to stay focused on doing what’s right to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.

COLUMN Gov. Ricketts: Staying healthy for the Holidays

NEW YORK (AP) — Shoppers on Walmart.com who pay a $98-a-year membership fee will get free shipping on orders of any size starting Friday.

Walmart announced the membership perk on Wednesday, doing away with a previous requirement that orders amount to at least $35 to qualify for free shipping.

The perk comes two months after Walmart launched its membership service called Walmart+, which it hopes will compete with Amazon’s Prime membership program.

Walmart+ members will receive free next-day and two-day shipping on non-perishable items shipped by Walmart, no matter the purchase amount. The move builds on the retailer’s pledge to continue adding benefits to its membership program, which also includes unlimited free grocery deliveries and fuel discounts.

However, delivery directly from Walmart’s brick-and-mortar stores on basic items like fresh groceries will still carry a $35 minimum and can come as soon as the same day.

Walmart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, has a ways to go to catch up with Amazon Prime. Launched in 2005, Prime has more than 150 million members worldwide who pay $119 a year, or $12.99 a month, for faster shipping and other perks, such as discounts at Amazon’s Whole Foods supermarkets.

Janey Whiteside, Walmart’s chief customer officer, declined to provide a membership number for Walmart+, but said that removing the $35 threshold was something customers wanted.

“The pandemic hasn’t gone away,” Whiteside told The Associated Press. “And we felt it was the right time to do it. "

Walmart’s online sales are soaring as more people have turned to the company to order groceries online and pick them up at a store as a way to stay safe during the pandemic. But the world’s biggest retailer is still a distant second online to Amazon.

Walmart should take 6% of all online sales in the U.S. this year, compared to Amazon’s 38%, according to market research firm eMarketer.

NEW YORK (AP) — Shoppers on Walmart.com who pay a $98-a-year membership fee will get free shipping on orders of any size starting Friday.Walmart announced the membership perk on Wednesday, doing away with a previous requirement that orders amount to at least $35 to qualify for free shipping.The perk comes two months after Walmart launched its membership service called Walmart+, which it hopes will compete with Amazon’s Prime membership program.Walmart+ members will receive free next-day and two-day shipping on non-perishable items shipped by Walmart, no matter the purchase amount. The move builds on the retailer’s pledge to continue adding benefits to its membership program, which also includes unlimited free grocery deliveries and fuel discounts.However, delivery directly from Walmart’s brick-and-mortar stores on basic items like fresh groceries will still carry a $35 minimum and can come as soon as the same day.Walmart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, has a ways to go to catch up with Amazon Prime. Launched in 2005, Prime has more than 150 million members worldwide who pay $119 a year, or $12.99 a month, for faster shipping and other perks, such as discounts at Amazon’s Whole Foods supermarkets.Janey Whiteside, Walmart’s chief customer officer, declined to provide a membership number for Walmart+, but said that removing the $35 threshold was something customers wanted.“The pandemic hasn’t gone away,” Whiteside told The Associated Press. “And we felt it was the right time to do it. "Walmart’s online sales are soaring as more people have turned to the company to order groceries online and pick them up at a store as a way to stay safe during the pandemic. But the world’s biggest retailer is still a distant second online to Amazon.Walmart should take 6% of all online sales in the U.S. this year, compared to Amazon’s 38%, according to market research firm eMarketer.

Walmart drops $35 minimum for its members' online orders

LINCOLN, Neb. (DHHS)-For the first time in more than a century, Nebraskans will grapple with celebrating Thanksgiving and December holidays (including Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa) during a global pandemic. It's natural to want to gather in-person for the holidays – and realizing that might not be possible can be emotionally tough for adults and kids alike.

“This year's celebrations will certainly look different than those in years past, but with a little creativity, holiday celebrations can still be meaningful this year," said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “Consider using a video conference service such as Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime to carry out your traditions, like singing holiday songs, wrapping presents, baking cookies, or having a special dinner together virtually. And remember that this time won't last forever. Stay in the moment, but by supporting each other in new ways."

Steps to Help Provide Stability and Support to Children During the Holidays

Tips to Help Adults Deal With Emotions During the Holidays

Other strategies for staying safe over the holidays:

Need to talk or get immediate help in a crisis?

LINCOLN, Neb. (DHHS)-For the first time in more than a century, Nebraskans will grapple with celebrating Thanksgiving and December holidays (including Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa) during a global pandemic. It's natural to want to gather in-person for the holidays – and realizing that might not be possible can be emotionally tough for adults and kids alike.“This year's celebrations will certainly look different than those in years past, but with a little creativity, holiday celebrations can still be meaningful this year," said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “Consider using a video conference service such as Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime to carry out your traditions, like singing holiday songs, wrapping presents, baking cookies, or having a special dinner together virtually. And remember that this time won't last forever. Stay in the moment, but by supporting each other in new ways."Steps to Help Provide Stability and Support to Children During the Holidays<ul>
 <li>Reach out to friends and family via phone or video chats. Help children to write cards or letters to family members they may not be able to visit.</li><li>Talk, listen, and encourage expression.</li><li>Give honest and&nbsp;accurate information.</li><li>Teach simple steps to stay healthy.</li><li>Be alert for any change in behavior.</li><li>Reassure children about their safety and well-being.</li>
 </ul>Tips to Help Adults Deal With Emotions During the Holidays<ul>
 <li>Allow people to feel their feelings, rather than urging them to be in a celebratory mood. Don't inadvertently fault them for how they feel.</li><li>Consider a virtual celebration via Skype or Zoom.</li><li>Be realistic. This year's holidays will be different; avoid judgment or unrealistic expectations.</li><li>Set time aside for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.</li><li>Avoid tobacco, alcohol, drugs and overeating.</li>
 </ul>Other strategies for staying safe over the holidays:<ul>
 <li>Celebrate with people in your household.</li><li>Wear a mask with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19. Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin and make sure the mask fits snugly against the sides of your face.</li><li>Stay at least 6 feet away from others who do not live with you. Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread COVID-19 or flu. Keeping 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.</li><li>Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.</li><li>Keep hand sanitizer with you and use it when you are unable to wash your hands.&nbsp; Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. </li>
 </ul>Need to talk or get immediate help in a crisis?<ul>
 <li>Nebraska Family Helpline, (888) 866-8660</li><li>Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258</li><li>Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (press 2 for Spanish), or text TalkWithUs for English or o envíenos un mensaje de texto con “Hablanos" para español al 66746</li><li>National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for English, 1-888-628-9454 for Spanish.</li><li>National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522</li><li>National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453</li><li>National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)</li><li>The Eldercare Locator:&nbsp;1-800-677-1116 &nbsp;</li><li>Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)</li>
 </ul>

DHHS provides tips for making merry during a pandemic

LINCOLN, Neb. (NP)-Troopers from the Nebraska State Patrol and Iowa State Patrol have completed a cooperative effort on two high-travel dates during the Thanksgiving weekend. The campaign included high-visibility enforcement on major highways in both states.

“The Iowa State Patrol values our partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol,” said Colonel Nathan Fulk, Iowa State Patrol. “Through our cooperation, we will remain focused on reducing traffic-related injuries and preventable deaths in the Midwest.”

“Public safety is a team effort,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Nebraska State Patrol. “This teamwork between NSP and ISP is tremendous, but we also encourage the motoring public to join the effort by driving safely no matter where you are.”

During the campaign, which included the high-traffic dates of Wednesday, November 25, and Sunday, November 29, troopers patrolled roadways in northwest Iowa and northeast Nebraska. In total, troopers made more than 300 contacts with motorists, including 12 motorist assists and 2 crash responses.

Troopers in both states issued 104 citations for speeding and 11 citations for seat belt violations. Troopers also arrested three people for driving under the influence.

NSP and ISP plan additional campaigns around high-volume travel periods. Motorists can reach the Highway Helpline in either state by calling *55 from a cell phone or 800-525-5555 from any phone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605544845192.jpeg" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (NP)-Troopers from the Nebraska State Patrol and Iowa State Patrol have completed a cooperative effort on two high-travel dates during the Thanksgiving weekend. The campaign included high-visibility enforcement on major highways in both states.“The Iowa State Patrol values our partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol,” said Colonel Nathan Fulk, Iowa State Patrol. “Through our cooperation, we will remain focused on reducing traffic-related injuries and preventable deaths in the Midwest.”“Public safety is a team effort,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Nebraska State Patrol. “This teamwork between NSP and ISP is tremendous, but we also encourage the motoring public to join the effort by driving safely no matter where you are.”During the campaign, which included the high-traffic dates of Wednesday, November 25, and Sunday, November 29, troopers patrolled roadways in northwest Iowa and northeast Nebraska. In total, troopers made more than 300 contacts with motorists, including 12 motorist assists and 2 crash responses.Troopers in both states issued 104 citations for speeding and 11 citations for seat belt violations. Troopers also arrested three people for driving under the influence.NSP and ISP plan additional campaigns around high-volume travel periods. Motorists can reach the Highway Helpline in either state by calling *55 from a cell phone or 800-525-5555 from any phone.

NSP, ISP complete Thanksgiving traffic safety campaign

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.(NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP), working with the McCook Police Department and Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, have arrested a North Platte man following a standoff of more than four and a half hours south of McCook.

The incident began Monday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m. when McCook Police Officers twice pursued the same vehicle, a Jaguar, on Highway 83 in McCook. During the second pursuit, the vehicle entered the ditch and stopped. The driver then fled on foot toward several trailer homes. At approximately 8:40 p.m., troopers and sheriff’s deputies set up a perimeter around the area and witnesses identified which home the suspect had entered.

The suspect was identified as Merrill Johnston III, 36, of North Platte. Johnston was wanted on a warrant from the United States Marshals Service and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for drug and weapon charges. The NSP SWAT Team was activated and responded to the scene.

Troopers made repeated commands for Johnston to exit the home, but he refused for several hours. At approximately 2:15 a.m. Tuesday, Johnston exited the home and was immediately taken into custody. He was lodged in Red Willow County Jail for the active warrant. Additional charges are pending concerning the incidents prior to the standoff.

Nobody was injured during the operation. Law enforcement was assisted by the Red Willow Western Rural Fire Departmen

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.(NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP), working with the McCook Police Department and Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, have arrested a North Platte man following a standoff of more than four and a half hours south of McCook.The incident began Monday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m. when McCook Police Officers twice pursued the same vehicle, a Jaguar, on Highway 83 in McCook. During the second pursuit, the vehicle entered the ditch and stopped. The driver then fled on foot toward several trailer homes. At approximately 8:40 p.m., troopers and sheriff’s deputies set up a perimeter around the area and witnesses identified which home the suspect had entered.The suspect was identified as Merrill Johnston III, 36, of North Platte. Johnston was wanted on a warrant from the United States Marshals Service and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for drug and weapon charges. The NSP SWAT Team was activated and responded to the scene.Troopers made repeated commands for Johnston to exit the home, but he refused for several hours. At approximately 2:15 a.m. Tuesday, Johnston exited the home and was immediately taken into custody. He was lodged in Red Willow County Jail for the active warrant. Additional charges are pending concerning the incidents prior to the standoff.Nobody was injured during the operation. Law enforcement was assisted by the Red Willow Western Rural Fire Departmen

Standoff near McCook lasts over 4 hours, ends with North Platte man's arrest

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Capitol won't be hosting all of its usual holiday celebrations this year to try to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, officials said Tuesday.

The annual tuba and horn concerts normally scheduled in December won't be held this year. The Capitol tree-lighting ceremony has been canceled this year as well.

Instead, the Office of the Capitol Commission said it plans to illuminate two large fir trees at the base of the Capitol's outdoor north plaza.

The Capitol will remain open for tours except on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. The commission may limit tour group sizes to 10 people.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Capitol won't be hosting all of its usual holiday celebrations this year to try to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, officials said Tuesday.The annual tuba and horn concerts normally scheduled in December won't be held this year. The Capitol tree-lighting ceremony has been canceled this year as well.Instead, the Office of the Capitol Commission said it plans to illuminate two large fir trees at the base of the Capitol's outdoor north plaza.The Capitol will remain open for tours except on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. The commission may limit tour group sizes to 10 people.

Virus nixes some Nebraska Capitol holiday plans this year

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A Scottsbluff man has been charged with second-degree murder in the stabbing death of a man inside an apartment last week.

Gregory Scott Moore, 54, was arrested last week after police on Nov. 25 found the body of 23-year-old Fernando Camacho-McBride inside Moore's apartment, the Scottsbluff Star-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://starherald.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/affidavit-scottsbluff-man-died-after-being-stabbed/article_630649eb-c243-5388-be9a-b04e5fdeff26.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>.

An arrest affidavit filed by police says officers were sent to the apartment on a report of disturbance that had lasted hours. Moore answered the door when officers arrived, cracking the door only slightly, the affidavit said. Even so, officers reported they could see he was covered in blood.

Police said that when they asked him to open the door wider, they could see what appeared to be a man dead on the floor lying in a pool of blood. Police said the body was that of Camacho-McBride and that he had suffered several stab wounds. Police reported that they recovered a bloody knife at the scene. Furniture had been knocked over, and it appeared a struggle had taken place in the apartment, police said.

Moore appeared in court on Monday on the murder count and a felony weapons count. He is being held on $2 million bail.

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A Scottsbluff man has been charged with second-degree murder in the stabbing death of a man inside an apartment last week.Gregory Scott Moore, 54, was arrested last week after police on Nov. 25 found the body of 23-year-old Fernando Camacho-McBride inside Moore's apartment, the Scottsbluff Star-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://starherald.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/affidavit-scottsbluff-man-died-after-being-stabbed/article_630649eb-c243-5388-be9a-b04e5fdeff26.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>.An arrest affidavit filed by police says officers were sent to the apartment on a report of disturbance that had lasted hours. Moore answered the door when officers arrived, cracking the door only slightly, the affidavit said. Even so, officers reported they could see he was covered in blood.Police said that when they asked him to open the door wider, they could see what appeared to be a man dead on the floor lying in a pool of blood. Police said the body was that of Camacho-McBride and that he had suffered several stab wounds. Police reported that they recovered a bloody knife at the scene. Furniture had been knocked over, and it appeared a struggle had taken place in the apartment, police said.Moore appeared in court on Monday on the murder count and a felony weapons count. He is being held on $2 million bail.

Man charged with 2nd-degree murder in Scottsbluff killing

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office completed the “National Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign that ran from November 16 through 29, 2020 thanks to a five thousand dollar grant provided by the Nebraska Department of Highway Safety. 

During the grant period, Deputies conducted one hundred-forty traffic stops and seventeen motorist assists. 

 Deputies issued citations for the following offenses; thirty-five for speeding, five for no registration, three for no proof of insurance, two for no seatbelt, one for exhibition of acceleration and one for no operator’s license. 

Additional citations were issued for; seven for possession of marijuana, six for possession of drug paraphernalia, three for possession of a controlled substance and one for leaving the scene of an accident.  One driver was arrested for driving under the influence and driving under suspension. Also, two subjects were arrested for possessing an illegal firearm and carrying a concealed weapon as well as drug charges. 

 Finally, Deputies arrested four subjects on outstanding warrants.  This was a very successful enforcement campaign and clearly, the extra patrol made the area safer for everyone.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office completed the “National Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign that ran from November 16 through 29, 2020 thanks to a five thousand dollar grant provided by the Nebraska Department of Highway Safety. During the grant period, Deputies conducted one hundred-forty traffic stops and seventeen motorist assists. Deputies issued citations for the following offenses; thirty-five for speeding, five for no registration, three for no proof of insurance, two for no seatbelt, one for exhibition of acceleration and one for no operator’s license. Additional citations were issued for; seven for possession of marijuana, six for possession of drug paraphernalia, three for possession of a controlled substance and one for leaving the scene of an accident. One driver was arrested for driving under the influence and driving under suspension. Also, two subjects were arrested for possessing an illegal firearm and carrying a concealed weapon as well as drug charges. Finally, Deputies arrested four subjects on outstanding warrants. This was a very successful enforcement campaign and clearly, the extra patrol made the area safer for everyone.

LCSO releases stats from 'Click It or Ticket' campaign

Alysen Daniels, of Mullen, fills out a holiday card in North Platte Community College’s Learning Commons on Tuesday. Students can send the cards to family members or designate them for residents of local nursing homes. The cards will be mailed Dec. 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606841571997.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alysen Daniels, of Mullen, fills out a holiday card in North Platte Community College’s Learning Commons on Tuesday. Students can send the cards to family members or designate them for residents of local nursing homes. The cards will be mailed Dec. 14.

 NPCC students send holiday cheer to local rest homes

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A new monthly survey of business leaders in nine Midwest and Plains states suggests faltering confidence in the region's economy as a new surge of the coronavirus outbreak sweeps the country.

After climbing every month since bottoming out in April, the overall index of the Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions survey fell to 69.0 in November from October's 70.2.

Any score above 50 on the survey's indexes suggests growth, while a score below 50 suggests recession.

The monthly survey results have mirrored national manufacturing survey results, which indicate the sector has been expanding at a steady pace since sinking to a post-2008 recession low in April, according to Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey.

"Even so, current output in the regional and U.S. manufacturing sectors remains below pre-COVID-19 levels," Goss said.

Meanwhile, the survey's confidence index looking ahead six months plummeted 20 points to 50.0 this month from October's 70.4.

"A sharp upturn in COVID-19 infections, along with more economic lockdowns, weighted on November's economic outlook," Goss said.

The survey's employment index fell to 63.1 from 66.7 in October. More than half of manufacturers surveyed this month indicated they had hired back all COVID-19 furloughed workers, while nearly 30% reported rehiring a portion of furloughed workers. Nearly 18% reported no furloughs. About 6% expect to furlough additional workers, Goss said.

The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

Here are the state-by-state results for November:

Arkansas: The overall index for Arkansas fell to 62.2 from October's 64.4. Components from the November survey were: new orders at 73.7, production or sales at 73.9, delivery lead time at 52.3, inventories at 48.9, and employment at 62.3. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods producers are expanding at a solid pace while nondurable goods manufacturers continue to experience flat business conditions," Goss said.

Iowa: Iowa's overall index remained above growth-neutral but declined to 74.6 from 78.7 in October. Components of the overall index were: new orders at 77.8, production. or sales at 79.2, delivery lead time at 78.7, employment at 62.5, and inventories at 87.2. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods manufacturers are expanding at a solid pace," Goss said.

Kansas: The Kansas overall index decreased to 60.1 from 68.7 in October. Components were: new orders at 73.3, production or sales at 81.3, delivery lead time at 50.9, employment at 50.7, and inventories at 45.2. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods producers are experiencing slow growth," Goss said.

Minnesota: The overall index for Minnesota declined to 73.2 from 82.7 in October. Components were: new orders at 79.5, production or sales at 80.9, delivery lead time at 72.5, inventories at 66.2, and employment at 66.9. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods manufacturers are expanding at a solid pace," Goss said.

Missouri: The overall index for Missouri dropped to 75.6 from October's 78.0. Components were: new orders at 82.6, production or sales at 78.2, delivery lead time at 78.8, inventories at 82.6, and employment at 61.2. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers continue to expand at a solid pace, and nondurable goods producers are experiencing slow to no growth," Goss said.

Nebraska: Nebraska's overall index fell to 66.8 from 71.4 in October. Components of the index were: new orders at 75.6, production or sales at 76.2, delivery lead time at 58.9, inventories at 66.7, and employment at 56.7. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods manufacturers are expanding at a solid pace," Goss said.

North Dakota: The overall index for North Dakota slumped to 57.2 from 59.0 in October. Components were: new orders at 73.2, production or sales at 73.3, delivery lead time at 50.5, employment at 50.4, and inventories at 38.9. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers and nondurable goods producers continue to experience slow to no growth," Goss said.

Oklahoma: Oklahoma's overall index sank below growth-neutral in November, to 49.4 from October's strong 61.1. Components were: new orders at 70.7, production or sales at 70.2, delivery lead time at 41.7, inventories at 20.6, and employment at 43.8. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers are experiencing slow to no growth, while nondurable goods producers continue to experience solid growth," Goss said.

South Dakota: The overall index for South Dakota climbed to 71.7 from 71.2 in October. Components were: new orders at 77.0, production or sales at 77.9, delivery lead time at 63.7, inventories at 79.5, and employment at 60.3. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers are experiencing slow to no growth, while nondurable goods producers continue to experience solid growth," Goss said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A new monthly survey of business leaders in nine Midwest and Plains states suggests faltering confidence in the region's economy as a new surge of the coronavirus outbreak sweeps the country.After climbing every month since bottoming out in April, the overall index of the Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions survey fell to 69.0 in November from October's 70.2.Any score above 50 on the survey's indexes suggests growth, while a score below 50 suggests recession.The monthly survey results have mirrored national manufacturing survey results, which indicate the sector has been expanding at a steady pace since sinking to a post-2008 recession low in April, according to Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey."Even so, current output in the regional and U.S. manufacturing sectors remains below pre-COVID-19 levels," Goss said.Meanwhile, the survey's confidence index looking ahead six months plummeted 20 points to 50.0 this month from October's 70.4."A sharp upturn in COVID-19 infections, along with more economic lockdowns, weighted on November's economic outlook," Goss said.The survey's employment index fell to 63.1 from 66.7 in October. More than half of manufacturers surveyed this month indicated they had hired back all COVID-19 furloughed workers, while nearly 30% reported rehiring a portion of furloughed workers. Nearly 18% reported no furloughs. About 6% expect to furlough additional workers, Goss said.The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.Here are the state-by-state results for November:Arkansas: The overall index for Arkansas fell to 62.2 from October's 64.4. Components from the November survey were: new orders at 73.7, production or sales at 73.9, delivery lead time at 52.3, inventories at 48.9, and employment at 62.3. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods producers are expanding at a solid pace while nondurable goods manufacturers continue to experience flat business conditions," Goss said.Iowa: Iowa's overall index remained above growth-neutral but declined to 74.6 from 78.7 in October. Components of the overall index were: new orders at 77.8, production. or sales at 79.2, delivery lead time at 78.7, employment at 62.5, and inventories at 87.2. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods manufacturers are expanding at a solid pace," Goss said.Kansas: The Kansas overall index decreased to 60.1 from 68.7 in October. Components were: new orders at 73.3, production or sales at 81.3, delivery lead time at 50.9, employment at 50.7, and inventories at 45.2. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods producers are experiencing slow growth," Goss said.Minnesota: The overall index for Minnesota declined to 73.2 from 82.7 in October. Components were: new orders at 79.5, production or sales at 80.9, delivery lead time at 72.5, inventories at 66.2, and employment at 66.9. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods manufacturers are expanding at a solid pace," Goss said.Missouri: The overall index for Missouri dropped to 75.6 from October's 78.0. Components were: new orders at 82.6, production or sales at 78.2, delivery lead time at 78.8, inventories at 82.6, and employment at 61.2. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers continue to expand at a solid pace, and nondurable goods producers are experiencing slow to no growth," Goss said.Nebraska: Nebraska's overall index fell to 66.8 from 71.4 in October. Components of the index were: new orders at 75.6, production or sales at 76.2, delivery lead time at 58.9, inventories at 66.7, and employment at 56.7. "Recent surveys indicate that both durable and nondurable goods manufacturers are expanding at a solid pace," Goss said.North Dakota: The overall index for North Dakota slumped to 57.2 from 59.0 in October. Components were: new orders at 73.2, production or sales at 73.3, delivery lead time at 50.5, employment at 50.4, and inventories at 38.9. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers and nondurable goods producers continue to experience slow to no growth," Goss said.Oklahoma: Oklahoma's overall index sank below growth-neutral in November, to 49.4 from October's strong 61.1. Components were: new orders at 70.7, production or sales at 70.2, delivery lead time at 41.7, inventories at 20.6, and employment at 43.8. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers are experiencing slow to no growth, while nondurable goods producers continue to experience solid growth," Goss said.South Dakota: The overall index for South Dakota climbed to 71.7 from 71.2 in October. Components were: new orders at 77.0, production or sales at 77.9, delivery lead time at 63.7, inventories at 79.5, and employment at 60.3. "Recent surveys indicate that durable goods manufacturers are experiencing slow to no growth, while nondurable goods producers continue to experience solid growth," Goss said.

Confidence in Midwest economic future plummets in survey

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has passed the grim milestone of 1,000 deaths linked to the coronavirus, and the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 remains high in the state.

Officials reported 29 new deaths Monday to give the state 1,018 total since the pandemic began. The state also reported 1,941 new cases of the virus to push the total up to 128,407.

The number of people being treated for the virus in hospitals grew Monday to 907 from the previous day's 896. That remains below the record of 987 that was set on Nov. 20, but the total is four times higher than it was two months ago.

The state said COVID-19 patients are filling 23% of Nebraska's hospital beds. If that number reaches 25%, additional social distancing restrictions will be imposed across the state.

Nebraska continued to have the sixth-highest rate of infections in the nation on Monday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska declined over the past two weeks, going from 2,027.43 new cases per day on Nov. 16 to 1,772.14 new cases per day on Monday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has passed the grim milestone of 1,000 deaths linked to the coronavirus, and the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 remains high in the state.Officials reported 29 new deaths Monday to give the state 1,018 total since the pandemic began. The state also reported 1,941 new cases of the virus to push the total up to 128,407.The number of people being treated for the virus in hospitals grew Monday to 907 from the previous day's 896. That remains below the record of 987 that was set on Nov. 20, but the total is four times higher than it was two months ago.The state said COVID-19 patients are filling 23% of Nebraska's hospital beds. If that number reaches 25%, additional social distancing restrictions will be imposed across the state.Nebraska continued to have the sixth-highest rate of infections in the nation on Monday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska declined over the past two weeks, going from 2,027.43 new cases per day on Nov. 16 to 1,772.14 new cases per day on Monday.

Nebraska reports 29 new virus deaths to top 1,000 total

One lucky player who bought a Nebraska Pick 5 ticket for the Monday, November 30 drawing is holding a ticket worth $140,000.

The Nebraska Lottery has confirmed that one ticket sold for Monday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw matched all five winning numbers for the $140,000 jackpot. The ticket was sold at Harsh Mercantile, 100 Main St, in Purdum. The winning numbers from Monday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw were 08, 24, 27, 29, 33. Players are encouraged to check their tickets at any Nebraska Lottery retailer, online at nelottery.com, or by calling the Lottery office at 402-471-6100.

Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed in person at Lottery headquarters in Lincoln. Additional information about claiming prizes can be found at the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, or by calling 800-587-5200.

Nebraska Pick 5 is Nebraska's unique Lottery game: all the proceeds from Nebraska Pick 5 stay in Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in Nebraska at Nebraska Lottery Lotto game retailers.

The odds of winning the Nebraska Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that it is not won, are 1 in 501,942. The overall odds of winning any Nebraska Pick 5 prize which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $793 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561728158071.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>One lucky player who bought a Nebraska Pick 5 ticket for the Monday, November 30 drawing is holding a ticket worth $140,000.The Nebraska Lottery has confirmed that one ticket sold for Monday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw matched all five winning numbers for the $140,000 jackpot. The ticket was sold at Harsh Mercantile, 100 Main St, in Purdum. The winning numbers from Monday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw were 08, 24, 27, 29, 33. Players are encouraged to check their tickets at any Nebraska Lottery retailer, online at nelottery.com, or by calling the Lottery office at 402-471-6100.Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed in person at Lottery headquarters in Lincoln. Additional information about claiming prizes can be found at the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, or by calling 800-587-5200.Nebraska Pick 5 is Nebraska's unique Lottery game: all the proceeds from Nebraska Pick 5 stay in Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in Nebraska at Nebraska Lottery Lotto game retailers.The odds of winning the Nebraska Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that it is not won, are 1 in 501,942. The overall odds of winning any Nebraska Pick 5 prize which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $793 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

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