LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) - An 18-year-old Nebraska man has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with Saturday's shooting death of a 15-year-old boy in Lexington.

Lexington Police Chief Tracy Wolf said Ramon Gonzalez Romero, of Lexington, turned himself in around 5:30 p.m. Saturday after he was charged in an arrest warrant with second-degree murder and a gun charge.

Police said the shooting happened early Saturday during a physical altercation between the 18-year-old and 15-year-old. After the shooting, friends took the 15-year-old to a hospital where he died.

The victim wasn't immediately identified.

Wolf said police used a search warrant to recover the weapon used during the shooting on Saturday.

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) - An 18-year-old Nebraska man has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with Saturday's shooting death of a 15-year-old boy in Lexington.Lexington Police Chief Tracy Wolf said Ramon Gonzalez Romero, of Lexington, turned himself in around 5:30 p.m. Saturday after he was charged in an arrest warrant with second-degree murder and a gun charge.Police said the shooting happened early Saturday during a physical altercation between the 18-year-old and 15-year-old. After the shooting, friends took the 15-year-old to a hospital where he died.The victim wasn't immediately identified.Wolf said police used a search warrant to recover the weapon used during the shooting on Saturday.

Lexington man charged in fatal shooting of 15-year-old

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska restaurants that were allowed to start selling carryout cocktails amid the pandemic want to continue doing so even after it wanes.

The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/restaurant-association-says-nebraska-should-extend-carryout-cocktails-to-help-businesses-survive/article_607cea2c-4ad4-11eb-b6db-bb612e8a04d0.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Nebraska Restaurant Association plans to push for the expansion during the upcoming 2021 legislative session. The waiver extends until the end of the pandemic emergency.

"This is a way for our restaurants to survive and come out the other side of this pandemic," said Zoe Olson, the executive director of the restaurant group.

Olson said the association's proposal would include a requirement for some sort of seal on carryout beverages that, if broken, would indicate that someone had opened their takeout drink in transit. The proposal would also end to-go drinks at some point, so legislators could review the policy and decide whether it should be extended.

But the idea is getting some pushback from groups that oppose binge drinking and drunken driving.

"When you increase the availability, and the ease of access to alcohol, that's when you get increased harms," said Chris Wagner, executive director of Project Extra Mile, an Omaha-based group that seeks to prevent or reduce problems associated with alcohol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609636619946.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska restaurants that were allowed to start selling carryout cocktails amid the pandemic want to continue doing so even after it wanes.The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/restaurant-association-says-nebraska-should-extend-carryout-cocktails-to-help-businesses-survive/article_607cea2c-4ad4-11eb-b6db-bb612e8a04d0.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Nebraska Restaurant Association plans to push for the expansion during the upcoming 2021 legislative session. The waiver extends until the end of the pandemic emergency."This is a way for our restaurants to survive and come out the other side of this pandemic," said Zoe Olson, the executive director of the restaurant group.Olson said the association's proposal would include a requirement for some sort of seal on carryout beverages that, if broken, would indicate that someone had opened their takeout drink in transit. The proposal would also end to-go drinks at some point, so legislators could review the policy and decide whether it should be extended.But the idea is getting some pushback from groups that oppose binge drinking and drunken driving."When you increase the availability, and the ease of access to alcohol, that's when you get increased harms," said Chris Wagner, executive director of Project Extra Mile, an Omaha-based group that seeks to prevent or reduce problems associated with alcohol.

Restaurants: Nebraska should extend carryout cocktails

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Although some teachers in Nebraska got the COVID-19 vaccine this week, state health officials said people 75 and older will get priority ahead of teachers and others in the next phase of vaccinations.

Once the state finishes vaccinating health care workers and residents and staff of long-term care homes, the elderly will be next in line for the vaccine, said Angela Ling, incident commander with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

The state updated its vaccination plan after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revised its recommendations to add people 75 and older to the next priority group, The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/nebraska-official-says-elderly-will-get-covid-vaccine-before-teachers-other-essential-workers/article_04e07b93-f2ad-5662-82d3-68e1ddf8f077.html?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_LJSNebraskaNews" target="_blank">reported.</a>

About 100 staff members in the Scottsbluff Public Schools were vaccinated this week. Kim Engel, director of the Panhandle Public Health District, said the Scottsbluff clinic was scheduled before the state revised its vaccination plan.

The state reported 166,798 confirmed COVID-19 cases Friday, an increase of 1,501 from the previous day.

Health department data shows 1,651 people have died from COVID-19 in the state, an increase of 40 from data reported Thursday. About 64% of the deaths were people 75 or older, health officials said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608291149776.png" alt="Courtesy St. Catherine Hospital" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy St. Catherine Hospital</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Although some teachers in Nebraska got the COVID-19 vaccine this week, state health officials said people 75 and older will get priority ahead of teachers and others in the next phase of vaccinations.Once the state finishes vaccinating health care workers and residents and staff of long-term care homes, the elderly will be next in line for the vaccine, said Angela Ling, incident commander with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.The state updated its vaccination plan after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revised its recommendations to add people 75 and older to the next priority group, The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/nebraska-official-says-elderly-will-get-covid-vaccine-before-teachers-other-essential-workers/article_04e07b93-f2ad-5662-82d3-68e1ddf8f077.html?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_LJSNebraskaNews" target="_blank">reported.</a>About 100 staff members in the Scottsbluff Public Schools were vaccinated this week. Kim Engel, director of the Panhandle Public Health District, said the Scottsbluff clinic was scheduled before the state revised its vaccination plan.The state reported 166,798 confirmed COVID-19 cases Friday, an increase of 1,501 from the previous day.Health department data shows 1,651 people have died from COVID-19 in the state, an increase of 40 from data reported Thursday. About 64% of the deaths were people 75 or older, health officials said.

State: Elderly to be next priority for COVID-19 vaccine

LINCOLN, Neb. (NSP)-The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) has awarded the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) its Law Enforcement Accreditation for the sixth time. NSP has been continually accredited by CALEA since 2004.

“This recognition is the result of a thorough review process by CALEA evaluators,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “CALEA accreditation demonstrates not only that NSP’s policies meet the rigorous standards held by CALEA, but also that NSP personnel are living up to those standards in their work across Nebraska.”

NSP received its reaccreditation last month following a process that included a self-assessment of NSP policies and procedures, in-depth comparison of NSP’s operations to CALEA’s internationally-recognized public safety standards, and a complete assessment by CALEA evaluators. During the process, NSP must prove compliance with approximately 500 CALEA standards for law enforcement agencies.

For this year’s CALEA assessment, NSP provided the assessors several avenues to complete their review while maintaining safe health practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. CALEA assessors were unable to travel to conduct an in-person assessment or public hearing, so NSP arranged a virtual tour of NSP facilities, one-on-one interviews with NSP team members, and a telephonic public hearing to gather feedback from the community.

CALEA serves as the international gold standard for public safety agencies. Approximately 10 percent of all law enforcement agencies in the United States hold CALEA accreditation. CALEA accreditation lasts for four years with annual assessments during that time.

LINCOLN, Neb. (NSP)-The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) has awarded the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) its Law Enforcement Accreditation for the sixth time. NSP has been continually accredited by CALEA since 2004.“This recognition is the result of a thorough review process by CALEA evaluators,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “CALEA accreditation demonstrates not only that NSP’s policies meet the rigorous standards held by CALEA, but also that NSP personnel are living up to those standards in their work across Nebraska.”NSP received its reaccreditation last month following a process that included a self-assessment of NSP policies and procedures, in-depth comparison of NSP’s operations to CALEA’s internationally-recognized public safety standards, and a complete assessment by CALEA evaluators. During the process, NSP must prove compliance with approximately 500 CALEA standards for law enforcement agencies.For this year’s CALEA assessment, NSP provided the assessors several avenues to complete their review while maintaining safe health practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. CALEA assessors were unable to travel to conduct an in-person assessment or public hearing, so NSP arranged a virtual tour of NSP facilities, one-on-one interviews with NSP team members, and a telephonic public hearing to gather feedback from the community.CALEA serves as the international gold standard for public safety agencies. Approximately 10 percent of all law enforcement agencies in the United States hold CALEA accreditation. CALEA accreditation lasts for four years with annual assessments during that time.

Nebraska State Patrol receives CALEA reaccreditation 

The North Platte Public Library is currently closed and will remain closed through January 10, 2021. The closure is due to library staff having close contact with an asymptomatic COVID positive staff member during the week of December 28-30 2020.&nbsp; Library staff are in quarantine until January 10, 2021.

It is unlikely that library patrons were exposed to the asymptomatic COVID positive staff member as all library staff members wear a facemask when in a public area, keep socially distant, and interactions are typically less than 5 minutes.

The Library plans to reopen at 9:00 AM on Monday, January 11, 2021.

Any items due from December 21, 2020, through January 11, 2021, will now be due on January 18, 2021. Fines do not accrue while the Library is closed. The book drop will remain open for those patrons who wish to return items.

The North Platte Public Library is currently closed and will remain closed through January 10, 2021. The closure is due to library staff having close contact with an asymptomatic COVID positive staff member during the week of December 28-30 2020.&nbsp; Library staff are in quarantine until January 10, 2021.It is unlikely that library patrons were exposed to the asymptomatic COVID positive staff member as all library staff members wear a facemask when in a public area, keep socially distant, and interactions are typically less than 5 minutes.The Library plans to reopen at 9:00 AM on Monday, January 11, 2021.Any items due from December 21, 2020, through January 11, 2021, will now be due on January 18, 2021. Fines do not accrue while the Library is closed. The book drop will remain open for those patrons who wish to return items.

North Platte Public Library closed temporarily

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw a sudden uptick in new coronavirus cases on Thursday, but the number is still below the record highs set last month, according to the state's tracking portal.

The state reported 1,516 new cases on Wednesday, up from 932 the previous day. The number of people hospitalized with the virus in Nebraska increased as well to 544 on Wednesday, up from 517 the previous day.

Nebraska has confirmed 165,297 coronavirus cases and 1,611 deaths since the pandemic began. About 64% of those who have died were at least 75 years old, according to the state's tracking portal.

Nebraska's hospitals still have 30% of their beds, 29% of their intensive care unit beds and 70% of their respirators available for use, according to the state tracking portal.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw a sudden uptick in new coronavirus cases on Thursday, but the number is still below the record highs set last month, according to the state's tracking portal.The state reported 1,516 new cases on Wednesday, up from 932 the previous day. The number of people hospitalized with the virus in Nebraska increased as well to 544 on Wednesday, up from 517 the previous day.Nebraska has confirmed 165,297 coronavirus cases and 1,611 deaths since the pandemic began. About 64% of those who have died were at least 75 years old, according to the state's tracking portal.Nebraska's hospitals still have 30% of their beds, 29% of their intensive care unit beds and 70% of their respirators available for use, according to the state tracking portal.

Nebraska sees sudden jump in new coronavirus cases

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - New unemployment and pandemic assistance claims in Nebraska dropped slightly last week, the state Department of Labor reported Thursday.

The department said it received 2,680 new unemployment claims and 284 pandemic unemployment assistance claims during the week that ended Saturday. Those numbers are down by a total of 65 from the previous week.

State officials said the number of continuing unemployment claims was 11,596, while the number of continuing pandemic assistance claims 5,606. Those numbers are down by a total of 636 from the prior week.

Nebraska saw a record high 26,539 new unemployment claims during the week of April 4, when the pandemic and government restrictions forced many businesses to close or scale back their operations.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - New unemployment and pandemic assistance claims in Nebraska dropped slightly last week, the state Department of Labor reported Thursday.The department said it received 2,680 new unemployment claims and 284 pandemic unemployment assistance claims during the week that ended Saturday. Those numbers are down by a total of 65 from the previous week.State officials said the number of continuing unemployment claims was 11,596, while the number of continuing pandemic assistance claims 5,606. Those numbers are down by a total of 636 from the prior week.Nebraska saw a record high 26,539 new unemployment claims during the week of April 4, when the pandemic and government restrictions forced many businesses to close or scale back their operations.

Nebraska jobless, pandemic assistance claims dip slightly

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Thanks to the government paying nearly 40% of their income, U.S. farmers are expected to end 2020 with higher profit than 2019 and the best net income in seven years, the Department of Agriculture said in its latest farm income forecast.

Farmers faced challenges throughout 2020 that included the impact of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bb54595393a14fcd867476996ef94129" target="_blank">trade dispute</a>&nbsp;s; low prices that drove down cash receipts for corn, cotton, wheat, chicken, cattle and hogs; and weather difficulties such as drought in some areas and an unusual August wind&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-iowa-chicago-storms-property-damage-e7bfc5351814eb111f90f540d605514a" target="_blank">storm</a>&nbsp;stretching from South Dakota to Ohio that centered on Iowa.

Farm cash receipts are forecast to decrease nearly 1% to $366.5 billion, the lowest in more than a decade, measured in real dollars. Direct federal government payments saved farmers' bottom line: Farmers overall saw a 107% increase in direct payments from 2019, when a third of net income came directly from the government.

The impact of the money varies from one farm to another, depending on whether a farmer owns the land, has significant capital to draw from, has manageable debt and aggressively manages wide commodity price swings.

"The payment to one farm could be a matter of life and death of that farm and for another farm maybe just makes it not quite as bad of a year as it was going to be and everywhere in between," said Mike Paustian, a farmer who raises hogs and grows soybeans and corn near Walcott in eastern Iowa. "I've described it as: If you're drowning and somebody throws you a life preserver, you're not going to argue too much about grabbing ahold of it."

Excluding USDA loans and insurance indemnity payments made by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, farmers are expected to receive $46.5 billion from the government, the largest direct-to-farm payment ever. That includes $32.4 billion in assistance through coronavirus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-financial-markets-iowa-archive-donald-trump-659457209d5ae93177ee529590f5a1b7" target="_blank">pandemic relief</a>&nbsp;food assistance and Paycheck Protection Program payments to farmers. Additional support comes from more traditional revenue loss programs due to low commodity prices, compensation for trade disruptions resulting from tariff battles and conservation programs assistance.

Federal court bankruptcy data indicates 433 U.S. farms filed for reorganization as of Sept. 30, down from 454 during the same period the previous year.

Overall, net farm income in the United States is expected to increase 43% from 2019 to $119.6 billion, the USDA estimated. Farmers will see the highest level of net farm income, a broad measure of profitability, since 2013, the agency said.

One northeast Iowa farmer said without the federal money it would have been difficult to make ends meet this year but it began to feel like the government checks were motivated by politics from a president seeking support for reelection.

"At first it did help, but then we kept getting payments and I don't know that those were warranted," said Rick Juchems, 65, who grows corn and soybeans and custom raises hogs. "The markets had already recovered quite a bit and they're recovering yet more, so it helps some but it's one of those things that the second one was more than we needed."

In a late October campaign appearance in Omaha, Nebraska, President Donald Trump said he believed farmers were better off getting government payments than relying solely on their farming receipts.

"In fact, some people say our farmers do better now than when they actually had a farm," he said.

Many top farm states voted for again for Trump in November, including Iowa, Nebraska, Texas and Kansas. Several, however, left Trump to vote for Democrat Joe Biden, including Wisconsin, Michigan and Georgia.

Bill Gordon, who with his father raises soybeans and corn in southwestern Minnesota, hopes for improved free trade agreements and a less confrontational approach under Biden in 2021.

"Volatility definitely causes volatility," he said. "And so if we can get these free trade agreements set up, that are better, and not as confrontational but still benefit both sides, that just benefits agriculture and rural America."

By DAVID PITT-Associated Press DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Thanks to the government paying nearly 40% of their income, U.S. farmers are expected to end 2020 with higher profit than 2019 and the best net income in seven years, the Department of Agriculture said in its latest farm income forecast.Farmers faced challenges throughout 2020 that included the impact of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bb54595393a14fcd867476996ef94129" target="_blank">trade dispute</a>&nbsp;s; low prices that drove down cash receipts for corn, cotton, wheat, chicken, cattle and hogs; and weather difficulties such as drought in some areas and an unusual August wind&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-iowa-chicago-storms-property-damage-e7bfc5351814eb111f90f540d605514a" target="_blank">storm</a>&nbsp;stretching from South Dakota to Ohio that centered on Iowa.Farm cash receipts are forecast to decrease nearly 1% to $366.5 billion, the lowest in more than a decade, measured in real dollars. Direct federal government payments saved farmers' bottom line: Farmers overall saw a 107% increase in direct payments from 2019, when a third of net income came directly from the government.The impact of the money varies from one farm to another, depending on whether a farmer owns the land, has significant capital to draw from, has manageable debt and aggressively manages wide commodity price swings."The payment to one farm could be a matter of life and death of that farm and for another farm maybe just makes it not quite as bad of a year as it was going to be and everywhere in between," said Mike Paustian, a farmer who raises hogs and grows soybeans and corn near Walcott in eastern Iowa. "I've described it as: If you're drowning and somebody throws you a life preserver, you're not going to argue too much about grabbing ahold of it."Excluding USDA loans and insurance indemnity payments made by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, farmers are expected to receive $46.5 billion from the government, the largest direct-to-farm payment ever. That includes $32.4 billion in assistance through coronavirus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-financial-markets-iowa-archive-donald-trump-659457209d5ae93177ee529590f5a1b7" target="_blank">pandemic relief</a>&nbsp;food assistance and Paycheck Protection Program payments to farmers. Additional support comes from more traditional revenue loss programs due to low commodity prices, compensation for trade disruptions resulting from tariff battles and conservation programs assistance.Federal court bankruptcy data indicates 433 U.S. farms filed for reorganization as of Sept. 30, down from 454 during the same period the previous year.Overall, net farm income in the United States is expected to increase 43% from 2019 to $119.6 billion, the USDA estimated. Farmers will see the highest level of net farm income, a broad measure of profitability, since 2013, the agency said.One northeast Iowa farmer said without the federal money it would have been difficult to make ends meet this year but it began to feel like the government checks were motivated by politics from a president seeking support for reelection."At first it did help, but then we kept getting payments and I don't know that those were warranted," said Rick Juchems, 65, who grows corn and soybeans and custom raises hogs. "The markets had already recovered quite a bit and they're recovering yet more, so it helps some but it's one of those things that the second one was more than we needed."In a late October campaign appearance in Omaha, Nebraska, President Donald Trump said he believed farmers were better off getting government payments than relying solely on their farming receipts."In fact, some people say our farmers do better now than when they actually had a farm," he said.Many top farm states voted for again for Trump in November, including Iowa, Nebraska, Texas and Kansas. Several, however, left Trump to vote for Democrat Joe Biden, including Wisconsin, Michigan and Georgia.Bill Gordon, who with his father raises soybeans and corn in southwestern Minnesota, hopes for improved free trade agreements and a less confrontational approach under Biden in 2021."Volatility definitely causes volatility," he said. "And so if we can get these free trade agreements set up, that are better, and not as confrontational but still benefit both sides, that just benefits agriculture and rural America."

Federal checks salvage otherwise dreadful 2020 for US farms

Alfred Lord Tennyson — 1809-1892

Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky, &nbsp; &nbsp;The flying cloud, the frosty light: &nbsp; &nbsp;The year is dying in the night; Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.

Ring out the old, ring in the new, &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring, happy bells, across the snow: &nbsp; &nbsp;The year is going, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true.

Ring out the grief that saps the mind &nbsp; &nbsp;For those that here we see no more; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the feud of rich and poor, Ring in redress to all mankind.

Ring out a slowly dying cause, &nbsp; &nbsp;And ancient forms of party strife; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring in the nobler modes of life, With sweeter manners, purer laws.

Ring out the want, the care, the sin, &nbsp; &nbsp;The faithless coldness of the times; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes But ring the fuller minstrel in.

Ring out false pride in place and blood, &nbsp; &nbsp;The civic slander and the spite; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring in the love of truth and right, Ring in the common love of good.

Ring out old shapes of foul disease; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the narrowing lust of gold; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the thousand wars of old, Ring in the thousand years of peace.

Ring in the valiant man and free, &nbsp; &nbsp;The larger heart, the kindlier hand; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the darkness of the land, Ring in the Christ that is to be.

Public domain poem / Cover image by Angela C from Pixabay

<h2>In Memoriam, (Ring out, wild bells)</h2>Alfred Lord Tennyson — 1809-1892<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609185175932.png" alt="Alfred Lord Tennyson / portrait by P. Krämer" />
 <figcaption>Alfred Lord Tennyson / portrait by P. Krämer</figcaption>
 </figure>Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky, &nbsp; &nbsp;The flying cloud, the frosty light: &nbsp; &nbsp;The year is dying in the night; Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.Ring out the old, ring in the new, &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring, happy bells, across the snow: &nbsp; &nbsp;The year is going, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true.Ring out the grief that saps the mind &nbsp; &nbsp;For those that here we see no more; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the feud of rich and poor, Ring in redress to all mankind.Ring out a slowly dying cause, &nbsp; &nbsp;And ancient forms of party strife; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring in the nobler modes of life, With sweeter manners, purer laws.Ring out the want, the care, the sin, &nbsp; &nbsp;The faithless coldness of the times; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes But ring the fuller minstrel in.Ring out false pride in place and blood, &nbsp; &nbsp;The civic slander and the spite; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring in the love of truth and right, Ring in the common love of good.Ring out old shapes of foul disease; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the narrowing lust of gold; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the thousand wars of old, Ring in the thousand years of peace.Ring in the valiant man and free, &nbsp; &nbsp;The larger heart, the kindlier hand; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ring out the darkness of the land, Ring in the Christ that is to be.Public domain poem / Cover image by Angela C from Pixabay

Happy New Year from North Platte Post and Eagle Radio

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is hosting a new, virtual series designed for preschoolers. The free Nature Tails will be at 10 a.m. CST on Tuesdays, starting Jan. 12.

Each week, Game and Parks outdoor educators from across the state will kick off nature-themed sessions by reading a children’s book tailored to the theme. Afterward, educators will lead a quick activity for children and their families. The themes are:

No pre-registration is required. To participate, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMzAuMzI2NjA5MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vYml0Lmx5L05hdHVyZVRhaWxzIn0.FhHN7fPG2TfV7r2AFZ0IeltetMpAxBmlNdiXaxBvp_g/s/1372948182/br/92523026753-l" target="_blank">bit.ly/NatureTails</a>&nbsp;to login and join the fun.

Unable to attend a live event, but still want to do the activity and hear a book? Each virtual event will be recorded and posted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Education Channel on YouTube. Search “Nebraska Game and Parks Education” on the social platform and subscribe for future videos.

Stay up-to-date with these and other educational events through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMzAuMzI2NjA5MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vTkVHYW1lYW5kUGFya3MvIn0.f9g5Hiy2RvYF48iLDZ3asKXCuOCFRA5RqwZv0knFFos/s/1372948182/br/92523026753-l" target="_blank">Facebook/NEGameandParks</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is hosting a new, virtual series designed for preschoolers. The free Nature Tails will be at 10 a.m. CST on Tuesdays, starting Jan. 12.Each week, Game and Parks outdoor educators from across the state will kick off nature-themed sessions by reading a children’s book tailored to the theme. Afterward, educators will lead a quick activity for children and their families. The themes are:<ul>
 <li>Jan. 12 – Mammals</li><li>Jan. 19 – Making Observations</li><li>Jan. 26 – Owls</li><li>Feb. 2 – Groundhogs</li><li>Feb. 9 – Seeds</li><li>Feb. 16 – Wintertime Fun</li>
 </ul>No pre-registration is required. To participate, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMzAuMzI2NjA5MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vYml0Lmx5L05hdHVyZVRhaWxzIn0.FhHN7fPG2TfV7r2AFZ0IeltetMpAxBmlNdiXaxBvp_g/s/1372948182/br/92523026753-l" target="_blank">bit.ly/NatureTails</a>&nbsp;to login and join the fun.Unable to attend a live event, but still want to do the activity and hear a book? Each virtual event will be recorded and posted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Education Channel on YouTube. Search “Nebraska Game and Parks Education” on the social platform and subscribe for future videos.Stay up-to-date with these and other educational events through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMzAuMzI2NjA5MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vTkVHYW1lYW5kUGFya3MvIn0.f9g5Hiy2RvYF48iLDZ3asKXCuOCFRA5RqwZv0knFFos/s/1372948182/br/92523026753-l" target="_blank">Facebook/NEGameandParks</a>.

Nebraska Game and Parks to host a free virtual pre-K program: Nature Tails

According to the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD), the risk dial moved from a 3.69 down to a 3.65 this week, which
remains in the severe risk level. There were changes in the following
variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:

This risk dial update serves as the
information that would have been presented on 12/24/2020. There was
no risk dial update on 12/24/2020 due to the holiday. 


The COVID-19 Risk Dial contains
recommended guidance to help prevent and control the spread of
COVID-19.

While in the Severe Risk category,
physical distance of 6 feet or greater, wearing face coverings when
outside the home, frequent handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer),
staying home if you are having flu-like or COVID-like symptoms,
disinfecting high touch surfaces, and having at-risk and vulnerable
people remain home are recommended as the greatest tools in reducing
the spread of COVID-19. For more information on recommendations for
the various risk categories of the WCDHD Community Risk Dial, please
visit the COVID-19 Risk Dial page on our website.

<a href="https://wcdhd.org/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">COVID-19 Risk Dial page</a>

For COVID-19 case number updates within
the West Central District Health Department Jurisdiction, check the
WCDHD <a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation?:language=en&amp;:display_count=y&amp;:origin=viz_share_link">Dashboard HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609382359337.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD), the risk dial moved from a 3.69 down to a 3.65 this week, which
remains in the severe risk level. There were changes in the following
variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:We had a decrease in the following: 
<ul>
 <li>Measure ID R8: Testing
	Availability
</li>
 </ul>This risk dial update serves as the
information that would have been presented on 12/24/2020. There was
no risk dial update on 12/24/2020 due to the holiday. 
The COVID-19 Risk Dial contains
recommended guidance to help prevent and control the spread of
COVID-19.While in the Severe Risk category,
physical distance of 6 feet or greater, wearing face coverings when
outside the home, frequent handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer),
staying home if you are having flu-like or COVID-like symptoms,
disinfecting high touch surfaces, and having at-risk and vulnerable
people remain home are recommended as the greatest tools in reducing
the spread of COVID-19. For more information on recommendations for
the various risk categories of the WCDHD Community Risk Dial, please
visit the COVID-19 Risk Dial page on our website.<a href="https://wcdhd.org/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">COVID-19 Risk Dial page</a>For COVID-19 case number updates within
the West Central District Health Department Jurisdiction, check the
WCDHD <a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation?:language=en&amp;:display_count=y&amp;:origin=viz_share_link">Dashboard HERE</a>.

COVID Community Risk Dial moves down slightly, remains in Red level


This year, Great Plains Health employees made history. 


<a></a>
Despite the economic challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Great
Plains Health employees raised $22,547 for Mid-Plains United Way’s
Great Plains Health workplace campaign – the largest collective
employee donation since 1999 (which is as far back as the
organization’s donation tracking system goes for the healthcare
facility).

With an
additional $5,000 match from the hospital, the total amount being
donated to Mid-Plains United Way is an impressive $27,547.

"The
Covid-19 pandemic has created numerous challenges in 2020, among them
economic hardship for many,” said Nick McKay, Great Plains Health
clinical director of cardiology and Mid-Plains United Way Trustee.
“Going into the United Way campaign, I knew this was going to be a
difficult year to raise funds.&nbsp; However, the strain put on our
community by the pandemic made it more important than ever to help
out our Partner Agencies.&nbsp; I am both humbled and proud that my
coworkers and Great Plains Health really stepped up and raised
$27,547 to donate to the United Way.&nbsp; This is another example of
how Great Plains Health continues to support our community."

Indeed,
fundraising has been difficult for Mid-Plains United Way during the
pandemic, leaving it further away from its fundraising goal than in a
typical year. And, thus, putting the organization’s promised
funding to its 16 partner nonprofits at risk.

“Partner
Agency grants are awarded prior to the funds being raised, so this is
a huge blessing that will help cover our 3rd
quarter payments to partners,” said Alisha Forbes, Mid-Plains
United Way executive director. “Our partners have been struggling
just as much as we have, so they are really relying on us to pull
through for them. This contribution pushes us over that 50% to Goal
threshold with $111,041.15 pledged.”

The
2020-2021 fundraising goal is $200,000.

“Great
Plains Health is working everyday inside and outside the hospital to
ensure the health and well-being of our community,” said Mel McNea,
Great Plains Health chief executive officer. “This year, with Nick
leading the employee pledge drive, our employees rose to the
challenge that the pandemic lay before us. We are proud to invest in
our local United Way and partner agencies to truly improve the lives
of many in our community.”

All
Mid-Plains United Way partners are local non-profit organizations
that focus on improving health, education and/or financial stability
in not only Lincoln County, but also 15 additional surrounding
counties in West-Central Nebraska. The organization is locally
funded, and all donations are invested locally.

2020-2021
Partner Agencies: Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center, Community
Action Homeless Prevention, Head Start, Lincoln County CASA, Girl
Scouts, Community Connections Mentoring, Lutheran Family Services,
West Central District Health Department Minority Health Program,
Salvation Army, Nebraska Youth Center, Community Connections
Substance Abuse Prevention, L2 for Kids, Guardians of the Children,
The Connection Homeless Shelter, North Platte Senior Center, North
Platte Kids Academy.

Donate
via website: <a href="https://www.midplainsunitedway.com/">https://www.midplainsunitedway.com/</a>

Donate
via mail: P.O. Box 172, North Platte, NE 69103

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609351730115.png" alt="Pictures left to right:&nbsp;Amy Hasemeyer, Danni Franzen, Julie Buoy, Lori Riewe, Ivan Mitchell, Alisha Forbes, Fiona Libsack, and Kathy Bourque" />
 <figcaption>Pictures left to right:&nbsp;Amy Hasemeyer, Danni Franzen, Julie Buoy, Lori Riewe, Ivan Mitchell, Alisha Forbes, Fiona Libsack, and Kathy Bourque</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Great Plains Health
This year, Great Plains Health employees made history. 
<a></a>
Despite the economic challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Great
Plains Health employees raised $22,547 for Mid-Plains United Way’s
Great Plains Health workplace campaign – the largest collective
employee donation since 1999 (which is as far back as the
organization’s donation tracking system goes for the healthcare
facility).With an
additional $5,000 match from the hospital, the total amount being
donated to Mid-Plains United Way is an impressive $27,547."The
Covid-19 pandemic has created numerous challenges in 2020, among them
economic hardship for many,” said Nick McKay, Great Plains Health
clinical director of cardiology and Mid-Plains United Way Trustee.
“Going into the United Way campaign, I knew this was going to be a
difficult year to raise funds.&nbsp; However, the strain put on our
community by the pandemic made it more important than ever to help
out our Partner Agencies.&nbsp; I am both humbled and proud that my
coworkers and Great Plains Health really stepped up and raised
$27,547 to donate to the United Way.&nbsp; This is another example of
how Great Plains Health continues to support our community."Indeed,
fundraising has been difficult for Mid-Plains United Way during the
pandemic, leaving it further away from its fundraising goal than in a
typical year. And, thus, putting the organization’s promised
funding to its 16 partner nonprofits at risk.“Partner
Agency grants are awarded prior to the funds being raised, so this is
a huge blessing that will help cover our 3rd
quarter payments to partners,” said Alisha Forbes, Mid-Plains
United Way executive director. “Our partners have been struggling
just as much as we have, so they are really relying on us to pull
through for them. This contribution pushes us over that 50% to Goal
threshold with $111,041.15 pledged.”The
2020-2021 fundraising goal is $200,000.“Great
Plains Health is working everyday inside and outside the hospital to
ensure the health and well-being of our community,” said Mel McNea,
Great Plains Health chief executive officer. “This year, with Nick
leading the employee pledge drive, our employees rose to the
challenge that the pandemic lay before us. We are proud to invest in
our local United Way and partner agencies to truly improve the lives
of many in our community.”All
Mid-Plains United Way partners are local non-profit organizations
that focus on improving health, education and/or financial stability
in not only Lincoln County, but also 15 additional surrounding
counties in West-Central Nebraska. The organization is locally
funded, and all donations are invested locally.2020-2021
Partner Agencies: Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center, Community
Action Homeless Prevention, Head Start, Lincoln County CASA, Girl
Scouts, Community Connections Mentoring, Lutheran Family Services,
West Central District Health Department Minority Health Program,
Salvation Army, Nebraska Youth Center, Community Connections
Substance Abuse Prevention, L2 for Kids, Guardians of the Children,
The Connection Homeless Shelter, North Platte Senior Center, North
Platte Kids Academy.Donate
via website: <a href="https://www.midplainsunitedway.com/">https://www.midplainsunitedway.com/</a>Donate
via mail: P.O. Box 172, North Platte, NE 69103

Great Plains Health makes historic donation to Mid Plains United Way

One of the bright spots in North Platte this holiday season, literally, was the 700 block of East Tenth Street.

The block was transformed into Holiday Road lighted Christmas display all to raise funds for local child advocacy group, the Guardians of the Children-Flat Rock Chapter.

On Wednesday, the Guardians were presented with a check for over $5,000 which were raised from free-will offerings.

The event was made possible by the residents of East Tenth Street, along with Al's Lock and Safe, Gary's Super Foods, and the Coffee Bin.

The Guardians are a non-profit organization that&nbsp;serves as advocates to provide strength and stability to families in crisis and to raise awareness of child abuse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609350980738.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>One of the bright spots in North Platte this holiday season, literally, was the 700 block of East Tenth Street.The block was transformed into Holiday Road lighted Christmas display all to raise funds for local child advocacy group, the Guardians of the Children-Flat Rock Chapter.On Wednesday, the Guardians were presented with a check for over $5,000 which were raised from free-will offerings.The event was made possible by the residents of East Tenth Street, along with Al's Lock and Safe, Gary's Super Foods, and the Coffee Bin.The Guardians are a non-profit organization that&nbsp;serves as advocates to provide strength and stability to families in crisis and to raise awareness of child abuse.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fvideos%2F694124431249702%2F&show_text=false&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

‘Holiday Road’ big success for Guardians of the Children

KEARNEY, Neb.-Kearney police say two people have been arrested following an armed robbery at a local convenience store.

According to Kearney police, on
Wednesday, December 30, at approximately 1:28 a.m., Kearney
Police were dispatched to the Kwik Stop, located at 414 2nd Avenue
South, to investigate an armed robbery. 

Police say the clerk reported a black
male threatened him with a handgun, demanding he open the cash
register. The clerk complied and the suspect left the store with an
unknown amount of cash and the clerk's cell phone. The clerk believed
the suspect departed south on 2nd Avenue in a Ford Explorer. Kearney
Police Criminal Investigators responded to assist with the
investigation and process the crime scene.

Police say Kearney
County authorities were notified of the incident and at approximately 1:49 a.m. a
Minden Police Officer located a matching vehicle southbound out of
Minden. A Franklin County Sheriff's Deputy arrived to assist with a
traffic stop and two adult occupants were contacted and detained. The
male’s clothing matched that of the suspect on surveillance video
from the Kwik Shop.&nbsp; A handgun and bag of cash was observed inside the
vehicle. KPD officers arrived on scene and placed both subjects in
custody.

Twenty-three-year-old
Jeremiah Kresser of Grand Island was arrested and booked at Buffalo
County Jail on suspicion of robbery and use of a weapon to commit a felony.
Fifty-one-year-old Angela Kresser of Grand Island was arrested and
booked at Buffalo County Jail on suspicion of robbery.


The
Kearney Police Department was assisted by members of the Buffalo
County Sheriff’s Office, Minden Police Department, and Franklin
County Sheriff’s Office on this case. We are thankful for the great
teamwork and inter-agency cooperation which resulted in the quick
clearance of this case. There were no injuries reported during the
robbery or arrest.

By Post StaffKEARNEY, Neb.-Kearney police say two people have been arrested following an armed robbery at a local convenience store.According to Kearney police, on
Wednesday, December 30, at approximately 1:28 a.m., Kearney
Police were dispatched to the Kwik Stop, located at 414 2nd Avenue
South, to investigate an armed robbery. Police say the clerk reported a black
male threatened him with a handgun, demanding he open the cash
register. The clerk complied and the suspect left the store with an
unknown amount of cash and the clerk's cell phone. The clerk believed
the suspect departed south on 2nd Avenue in a Ford Explorer. Kearney
Police Criminal Investigators responded to assist with the
investigation and process the crime scene.Police say Kearney
County authorities were notified of the incident and at approximately 1:49 a.m. a
Minden Police Officer located a matching vehicle southbound out of
Minden. A Franklin County Sheriff's Deputy arrived to assist with a
traffic stop and two adult occupants were contacted and detained. The
male’s clothing matched that of the suspect on surveillance video
from the Kwik Shop.&nbsp; A handgun and bag of cash was observed inside the
vehicle. KPD officers arrived on scene and placed both subjects in
custody.Twenty-three-year-old
Jeremiah Kresser of Grand Island was arrested and booked at Buffalo
County Jail on suspicion of robbery and use of a weapon to commit a felony.
Fifty-one-year-old Angela Kresser of Grand Island was arrested and
booked at Buffalo County Jail on suspicion of robbery.
The
Kearney Police Department was assisted by members of the Buffalo
County Sheriff’s Office, Minden Police Department, and Franklin
County Sheriff’s Office on this case. We are thankful for the great
teamwork and inter-agency cooperation which resulted in the quick
clearance of this case. There were no injuries reported during the
robbery or arrest.

2 arrested in armed robbery of Kearney Kwik Stop

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A new program starting Friday seeks to help Nebraska veterans adopt pets.

<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/new-specialty-license-plates-will-benefit-program-to-help-veterans-adopt-pets/article_35efcf9a-bf13-56ee-813b-cfabb12a25a8.html#tncms-source=login" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reports that the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs is launching its "Vets Get Pets" program to help pay animal adoption fees for veterans through the sale of special license plates.

The new license plate design is available for all Nebraska drivers to purchase. The $5 cost for the alphanumeric version or $40 cost for custom message plates will fund an adoption fee reimbursement program for veterans expected to begin in July.

Veterans Affairs Director John Hilgert said in a news release that animal companions can help veterans deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.

The specialty plates can be purchased through&nbsp;<a href="http://dmv.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dmv.nebraska.gov</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A new program starting Friday seeks to help Nebraska veterans adopt pets.<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/new-specialty-license-plates-will-benefit-program-to-help-veterans-adopt-pets/article_35efcf9a-bf13-56ee-813b-cfabb12a25a8.html#tncms-source=login" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reports that the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs is launching its "Vets Get Pets" program to help pay animal adoption fees for veterans through the sale of special license plates.The new license plate design is available for all Nebraska drivers to purchase. The $5 cost for the alphanumeric version or $40 cost for custom message plates will fund an adoption fee reimbursement program for veterans expected to begin in July.Veterans Affairs Director John Hilgert said in a news release that animal companions can help veterans deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.The specialty plates can be purchased through&nbsp;<a href="http://dmv.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dmv.nebraska.gov</a>.

Nebraska program seeks to help pair veterans with pets

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine are participating in national testing of a potential new coronavirus vaccine for adults.

The medical center plans to enroll 1,000 study participants for the clinical trial. The potential vaccine was developed by Novavax, Inc., a U.S. biotechnology company, which plans to enroll 30,000 adults in the U.S. and Mexico. People who won't be receiving the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines in the next three to six months are encouraged to consider enrolling in the trial.

The vaccine candidate is a protein-based vaccine created from the coronavirus spike protein and an added component that boosts a person's immune response to stimulate higher levels of antibodies.

Thousands of participants have been enrolled across several large studies to test possible vaccines.

Nebraska had 517 hospitalized coronavirus patients as of Tuesday evening, down from the Nov. 20 high of 987 but still higher than the total earlier in the pandemic.

The state has confirmed 163,781 virus cases and 1,603 deaths since the pandemic began. There were 932 new cases reported on Tuesday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine are participating in national testing of a potential new coronavirus vaccine for adults.The medical center plans to enroll 1,000 study participants for the clinical trial. The potential vaccine was developed by Novavax, Inc., a U.S. biotechnology company, which plans to enroll 30,000 adults in the U.S. and Mexico. People who won't be receiving the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines in the next three to six months are encouraged to consider enrolling in the trial.The vaccine candidate is a protein-based vaccine created from the coronavirus spike protein and an added component that boosts a person's immune response to stimulate higher levels of antibodies.Thousands of participants have been enrolled across several large studies to test possible vaccines.Nebraska had 517 hospitalized coronavirus patients as of Tuesday evening, down from the Nov. 20 high of 987 but still higher than the total earlier in the pandemic.The state has confirmed 163,781 virus cases and 1,603 deaths since the pandemic began. There were 932 new cases reported on Tuesday.

Nebraska participating in test of new potential vaccine

When the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Day, many are going to be glad to have 2020 in the history books.&nbsp; It’s not been easy to endure the pandemic, but I’m inspired by the way Nebraskans have pulled together to fight the virus. &nbsp;Even though it’s been a tough year, Nebraskans have shown great resilience as a state, and we’ve made vital contributions to the nation’s response to the global pandemic.

Before anyone in our state tested positive for coronavirus, Nebraskans were already stepping up to help protect our fellow Americans from the disease.&nbsp; On February 7th, Camp Ashland—an installation of the Nebraska National Guard—hosted 57 Americans who had been evacuated from the region of Wuhan, China where the virus originated.&nbsp; The quarantine operation was a success.&nbsp; All of the evacuees were cleared for release after a two-week quarantine period.&nbsp; On February 17th, UNMC took in more than a dozen Americans who had been rescued from a Diamond Princess cruise ship off the coast of Japan.&nbsp; The patients were treated and monitored in the National Quarantine Unit, and all of them were released in good health.&nbsp;

With this experience behind us, protecting Nebraska’s hospitals became the ‘north star’ guiding our strategic response to the coronavirus.&nbsp; We’ve been successful in ensuring that every Nebraskan who needs a hospital bed, ICU bed, or ventilator has access to one.&nbsp; We put together a six-part plan to help achieve this goal.

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchasing and Distributing PPE

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Setting aside space for people to quarantine

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Protecting At-Risk Populations

6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Issuing Directed Health Measures

In addition to these steps, Nebraskans have been using the tools to slow the spread of the virus such as social distancing, wearing a mask to the store, washing hands often, and staying home when sick.&nbsp; Our communities have responded as expected—by looking out for one another and doing the right thing.&nbsp;

As we’ve protected hospital capacity, we’ve also been working to help Nebraskans recover.&nbsp; The state steered federal coronavirus relief towards $411 million in grants for Nebraska’s businesses and family farms.&nbsp; This includes grants of $12,000 to 12,214 small businesses and 9,209 livestock producers with 75 or fewer employees.&nbsp; The funds also include stabilization grants to hotels and convention centers, zoos, ethanol producers, event centers and sports arenas.&nbsp; According to the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, “revenues generated in November by the state’s small businesses were the third strongest in the nation relative to January.”&nbsp;

The strength of Nebraska’s ag producers, food processors, and transportation companies have helped feed the world throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; Companies in our state have also played pivotal roles in the efforts to produce a safe and effective coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; Meridian Clinical Research in Omaha took part in the clinical trial to gather research on the Moderna vaccine, which arrived to our state last week.&nbsp; Becton Dickinson (BD) invested $70 million to expand its capacity in Nebraska in order to manufacture the needles and syringes used to administer vaccines.&nbsp; These are just a couple of examples of how Nebraska has played a leading role in the national response to the pandemic.

While battling coronavirus, we’ve kept building on our Four Pillars to keep Nebraska moving forward even in the midst of tough circumstances.&nbsp; We’ve seen new opportunities in developing our workforce, with the creation of 2,280 Career Scholarships at our state’s colleges and universities to help connect young Nebraskans to great jobs in fields with a high demand for talent.&nbsp; We’ve made it easier to do business in Nebraska by continuing to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of state government services.&nbsp; This has helped attract major investments from Camping World (Sidney), Amazon and Hormel (Papillion), Vireo (Plattsmouth), Dollar General (Blair), and Monolith Materials (Hallam)—just to name a few examples from 2020.

Throughout the pandemic, we’ve been cutting red tape to keep Nebraskans working. &nbsp;From giving licensed professions more flexibility to allowing restaurants to offer carryout alcohol, we looked for ways to grow our healthcare workforce and help small businesses survive.&nbsp; The jobs being created across our state have helped Nebraska to have the nation’s lowest unemployment rate.&nbsp; At 3.1%, our unemployment rate for November 2020 is only slightly above where it stood one year ago (3.0%)—despite the pandemic.

In August 2020, we also celebrated a giant step forward in delivering property tax relief to Nebraskans.&nbsp; The bill the Legislature passed, and I signed into law, creates a refundable income tax credit based on your property taxes paid to schools.&nbsp; Once the tax credit is phased in, the state will provide an additional $375 million in property tax relief.&nbsp;

While the coronavirus postponed the trade missions we had planned in 2020, we still saw fruit from our international engagement this year. &nbsp;In early March, Vietnamese trade officials visited Lincoln as a follow up from our fall 2019 trade mission to Hanoi.&nbsp; They committed to buy $3 billion of beef, corn, distiller’s grains, soybeans, and wheat from Nebraska in the next two to three years.&nbsp;

In spite of all the challenges, we have a lot we can be grateful for over the past year. &nbsp;We still have a ways to go before the pandemic is over, but Nebraskans can be proud of how the state has come together during this difficult time.&nbsp; If you have questions about coronavirus vaccinations or our current Directed Health Measures, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Working together, we rebuilt bigger and better after the 2019 floods.&nbsp; I’m confident we’ll also emerge from the coronavirus pandemic stronger than ever in 2021.&nbsp; Happy New Year!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609298844617.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Governor Pete RickettsWhen the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Day, many are going to be glad to have 2020 in the history books.&nbsp; It’s not been easy to endure the pandemic, but I’m inspired by the way Nebraskans have pulled together to fight the virus. &nbsp;Even though it’s been a tough year, Nebraskans have shown great resilience as a state, and we’ve made vital contributions to the nation’s response to the global pandemic.Before anyone in our state tested positive for coronavirus, Nebraskans were already stepping up to help protect our fellow Americans from the disease.&nbsp; On February 7th, Camp Ashland—an installation of the Nebraska National Guard—hosted 57 Americans who had been evacuated from the region of Wuhan, China where the virus originated.&nbsp; The quarantine operation was a success.&nbsp; All of the evacuees were cleared for release after a two-week quarantine period.&nbsp; On February 17th, UNMC took in more than a dozen Americans who had been rescued from a Diamond Princess cruise ship off the coast of Japan.&nbsp; The patients were treated and monitored in the National Quarantine Unit, and all of them were released in good health.&nbsp;With this experience behind us, protecting Nebraska’s hospitals became the ‘north star’ guiding our strategic response to the coronavirus.&nbsp; We’ve been successful in ensuring that every Nebraskan who needs a hospital bed, ICU bed, or ventilator has access to one.&nbsp; We put together a six-part plan to help achieve this goal.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Testing2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact Tracing3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchasing and Distributing PPE4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Setting aside space for people to quarantine5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Protecting At-Risk Populations6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Issuing Directed Health MeasuresIn addition to these steps, Nebraskans have been using the tools to slow the spread of the virus such as social distancing, wearing a mask to the store, washing hands often, and staying home when sick.&nbsp; Our communities have responded as expected—by looking out for one another and doing the right thing.&nbsp;As we’ve protected hospital capacity, we’ve also been working to help Nebraskans recover.&nbsp; The state steered federal coronavirus relief towards $411 million in grants for Nebraska’s businesses and family farms.&nbsp; This includes grants of $12,000 to 12,214 small businesses and 9,209 livestock producers with 75 or fewer employees.&nbsp; The funds also include stabilization grants to hotels and convention centers, zoos, ethanol producers, event centers and sports arenas.&nbsp; According to the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, “revenues generated in November by the state’s small businesses were the third strongest in the nation relative to January.”&nbsp;The strength of Nebraska’s ag producers, food processors, and transportation companies have helped feed the world throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; Companies in our state have also played pivotal roles in the efforts to produce a safe and effective coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; Meridian Clinical Research in Omaha took part in the clinical trial to gather research on the Moderna vaccine, which arrived to our state last week.&nbsp; Becton Dickinson (BD) invested $70 million to expand its capacity in Nebraska in order to manufacture the needles and syringes used to administer vaccines.&nbsp; These are just a couple of examples of how Nebraska has played a leading role in the national response to the pandemic.While battling coronavirus, we’ve kept building on our Four Pillars to keep Nebraska moving forward even in the midst of tough circumstances.&nbsp; We’ve seen new opportunities in developing our workforce, with the creation of 2,280 Career Scholarships at our state’s colleges and universities to help connect young Nebraskans to great jobs in fields with a high demand for talent.&nbsp; We’ve made it easier to do business in Nebraska by continuing to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of state government services.&nbsp; This has helped attract major investments from Camping World (Sidney), Amazon and Hormel (Papillion), Vireo (Plattsmouth), Dollar General (Blair), and Monolith Materials (Hallam)—just to name a few examples from 2020.Throughout the pandemic, we’ve been cutting red tape to keep Nebraskans working. &nbsp;From giving licensed professions more flexibility to allowing restaurants to offer carryout alcohol, we looked for ways to grow our healthcare workforce and help small businesses survive.&nbsp; The jobs being created across our state have helped Nebraska to have the nation’s lowest unemployment rate.&nbsp; At 3.1%, our unemployment rate for November 2020 is only slightly above where it stood one year ago (3.0%)—despite the pandemic.In August 2020, we also celebrated a giant step forward in delivering property tax relief to Nebraskans.&nbsp; The bill the Legislature passed, and I signed into law, creates a refundable income tax credit based on your property taxes paid to schools.&nbsp; Once the tax credit is phased in, the state will provide an additional $375 million in property tax relief.&nbsp;While the coronavirus postponed the trade missions we had planned in 2020, we still saw fruit from our international engagement this year. &nbsp;In early March, Vietnamese trade officials visited Lincoln as a follow up from our fall 2019 trade mission to Hanoi.&nbsp; They committed to buy $3 billion of beef, corn, distiller’s grains, soybeans, and wheat from Nebraska in the next two to three years.&nbsp;In spite of all the challenges, we have a lot we can be grateful for over the past year. &nbsp;We still have a ways to go before the pandemic is over, but Nebraskans can be proud of how the state has come together during this difficult time.&nbsp; If you have questions about coronavirus vaccinations or our current Directed Health Measures, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Working together, we rebuilt bigger and better after the 2019 floods.&nbsp; I’m confident we’ll also emerge from the coronavirus pandemic stronger than ever in 2021.&nbsp; Happy New Year!

Gov. Ricketts: Farewell to 2020

By Jerry Kane Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. — Staying warm and comfortable while on the ice will go a long way toward ensuring you have a fun outing ice-fishing.

The conditions will determine exactly how you will want to dress, but, regardless, you should dress in layers. The reason? You’ll want to stay warm, and you’ll need to avoid sweating.

Getting set up for fishing – or moving to new fishing areas on the ice – is where you can work up a sweat. This includes carrying or dragging your gear onto the ice, drilling holes and setting up a shelter.

Activity makes you sweat, even on frigid days on the ice. In the cold, sweat can lower your body temperature and lead to hypothermia. You should lose or loosen layers during periods of activity then put them back on when you are finished.

Wear layers of clothing that are loose-fitting and quickly can be removed. They will trap warm air against your body.

For a first layer to put on, wear a wool, synthetic or moisture-wicking base. Avoid cotton as a first layer as it holds moisture, and moisture against the skin on a cold day can lower the body temperature. Cotton or fleece can be worn as a second layer, but wool will provide warmth even when damp. An outer layer could be a waterproof, windproof parka, bib overalls or coveralls.

Thick socks and a good pair of insulated boots will keep your feet warm even though you’re standing on ice all day. It’s best that the boots not be too tight. More room in the toe will allow you a chance to wiggle your toes to keep them warm.

Wear a warm hat or cap to cover the top of your head and ears. Pair it with a fleece neck gaiter for extra protection on windy days.

Anglers need to use their bare hands at some point — to bait jigs, tie knots, or unhook fish — but always should have at least a couple of pairs of gloves or mittens. They don’t need to be tight-fitting. That way, they can be flung off quickly if a bait needs to be changed or a fish needs to be unhooked.

Dress warm, be safe and have fun on the ice this winter.

For more on ice-fishing safety, watch a video at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMjkuMzI2MDQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.gbYIPO4Qy9_LWv47UlLorPhlk969YUVkxGHJgwbocX4/s/1372948182/br/92470589268-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/howtofish</a>.

Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at virtual Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in Jan. 16 and 19. Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host the classroom clinics via Zoom. Register to attend one or both sessions by going to the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMjkuMzI2MDQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.cVa4Db3yjo-Yybtws04zAttzgJDFdgPraz3miUuBGuE/s/1372948182/br/92470589268-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609298717113.png" alt="An ice angler dressed in layers on a sunny day shows off his bluegill. A parka or jacket could be added as a layer if the temperature drops or wind picks up. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>An ice angler dressed in layers on a sunny day shows off his bluegill. A parka or jacket could be added as a layer if the temperature drops or wind picks up. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jerry Kane Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionLINCOLN, Neb. — Staying warm and comfortable while on the ice will go a long way toward ensuring you have a fun outing ice-fishing.The conditions will determine exactly how you will want to dress, but, regardless, you should dress in layers. The reason? You’ll want to stay warm, and you’ll need to avoid sweating.Getting set up for fishing – or moving to new fishing areas on the ice – is where you can work up a sweat. This includes carrying or dragging your gear onto the ice, drilling holes and setting up a shelter.Activity makes you sweat, even on frigid days on the ice. In the cold, sweat can lower your body temperature and lead to hypothermia. You should lose or loosen layers during periods of activity then put them back on when you are finished.Wear layers of clothing that are loose-fitting and quickly can be removed. They will trap warm air against your body.For a first layer to put on, wear a wool, synthetic or moisture-wicking base. Avoid cotton as a first layer as it holds moisture, and moisture against the skin on a cold day can lower the body temperature. Cotton or fleece can be worn as a second layer, but wool will provide warmth even when damp. An outer layer could be a waterproof, windproof parka, bib overalls or coveralls.Thick socks and a good pair of insulated boots will keep your feet warm even though you’re standing on ice all day. It’s best that the boots not be too tight. More room in the toe will allow you a chance to wiggle your toes to keep them warm.Wear a warm hat or cap to cover the top of your head and ears. Pair it with a fleece neck gaiter for extra protection on windy days.Anglers need to use their bare hands at some point — to bait jigs, tie knots, or unhook fish — but always should have at least a couple of pairs of gloves or mittens. They don’t need to be tight-fitting. That way, they can be flung off quickly if a bait needs to be changed or a fish needs to be unhooked.Dress warm, be safe and have fun on the ice this winter.For more on ice-fishing safety, watch a video at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMjkuMzI2MDQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.gbYIPO4Qy9_LWv47UlLorPhlk969YUVkxGHJgwbocX4/s/1372948182/br/92470589268-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/howtofish</a>.Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at virtual Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in Jan. 16 and 19. Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host the classroom clinics via Zoom. Register to attend one or both sessions by going to the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEyMjkuMzI2MDQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.cVa4Db3yjo-Yybtws04zAttzgJDFdgPraz3miUuBGuE/s/1372948182/br/92470589268-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Dress in layers to stay warm, comfortable while ice-fishing

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The railroad industry has installed an automatic braking system on nearly 58,000 miles of track where it is required ahead of a year-end deadline, federal regulators said Tuesday.

Federal Railroad Administration chief Ronald Batory said railroads worked together over the past 12 years to develop and install the long-awaited technology known as positive train control, or PTC. The roughly $15 billion braking system is aimed at reducing human error by automatically stopping trains in certain situations, such as when they’re in danger of colliding, derailing because of excessive speed, entering track under maintenance or traveling the wrong direction because of switching mistakes.

“PTC is a risk reduction system that will make a safe industry even safer, and provide a solid foundation upon which additional safety improvements will be realized,” Batory said.

The National Transportation Safety Board has said more than 150 train crashes since 1969 could have been prevented by positive train control, which was required in 2008 after a commuter train collided head-on with a freight train near Los Angeles, killing 25 and injuring more than 100. That agency had recommended positive train control for years before Congress mandated it after that crash. Then Congress extended the original 2015 deadline twice and gave railroads until the end of this year to complete the system.

Bob Chipkevich, who oversaw railroad crash investigations for several years at the NTSB, said positive train control is a significant safety improvement for the industry, particularly in areas where commuter trains operate and where hazardous gases are transported, but added that it could have been done years earlier and it is still not required on all tracks nationwide.

“When I was at NTSB, we were quite disappointed in how long it took to actually move forward with the requirements and development of the system,” Chipkevich said. “It is a disappointment that it has taken so long.”

Railroad analyst Tony Hatch said the industry had to make sure each railroad’s system would work with those installed by other railroads because trains hauling people and goods often travel across several different railroads’ tracks.

“It was an expensive, complicated and time-consuming project,” Hatch said.

The braking system uses GPS, wireless radio and computers to monitor train position and speed, and it can give engineers commands. The NTSB said the system could have prevented the December 2017 derailment of an Amtrak passenger train in Washington state that killed three passengers and injured 57 people.

Ian Jefferies, CEO of the Association of American Railroads trade group, said completing the positive train control systems is an important milestone for the industry that will “enhance safety and springboard innovation long into the future.”

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The railroad industry has installed an automatic braking system on nearly 58,000 miles of track where it is required ahead of a year-end deadline, federal regulators said Tuesday.Federal Railroad Administration chief Ronald Batory said railroads worked together over the past 12 years to develop and install the long-awaited technology known as positive train control, or PTC. The roughly $15 billion braking system is aimed at reducing human error by automatically stopping trains in certain situations, such as when they’re in danger of colliding, derailing because of excessive speed, entering track under maintenance or traveling the wrong direction because of switching mistakes.“PTC is a risk reduction system that will make a safe industry even safer, and provide a solid foundation upon which additional safety improvements will be realized,” Batory said.The National Transportation Safety Board has said more than 150 train crashes since 1969 could have been prevented by positive train control, which was required in 2008 after a commuter train collided head-on with a freight train near Los Angeles, killing 25 and injuring more than 100. That agency had recommended positive train control for years before Congress mandated it after that crash. Then Congress extended the original 2015 deadline twice and gave railroads until the end of this year to complete the system.Bob Chipkevich, who oversaw railroad crash investigations for several years at the NTSB, said positive train control is a significant safety improvement for the industry, particularly in areas where commuter trains operate and where hazardous gases are transported, but added that it could have been done years earlier and it is still not required on all tracks nationwide.“When I was at NTSB, we were quite disappointed in how long it took to actually move forward with the requirements and development of the system,” Chipkevich said. “It is a disappointment that it has taken so long.”Railroad analyst Tony Hatch said the industry had to make sure each railroad’s system would work with those installed by other railroads because trains hauling people and goods often travel across several different railroads’ tracks.“It was an expensive, complicated and time-consuming project,” Hatch said.The braking system uses GPS, wireless radio and computers to monitor train position and speed, and it can give engineers commands. The NTSB said the system could have prevented the December 2017 derailment of an Amtrak passenger train in Washington state that killed three passengers and injured 57 people.Ian Jefferies, CEO of the Association of American Railroads trade group, said completing the positive train control systems is an important milestone for the industry that will “enhance safety and springboard innovation long into the future.”

Major rail safety technology installed before deadline

LINCOLN, Neb.-Two big jackpots are up for grabs in the next Mega Millions® and Powerball® drawings. Because of these high jackpots, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to play responsibly.

A string of drawings without a jackpot winner has grown the estimated Mega Millions jackpot to its highest level since June. There have been 29 consecutive drawings since September 18 without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for Tuesday, December 29 drawing to $376 million or $287.4 million with the cash option selected.

Powerball has also seen its jackpot grow over the last few months. There have been 29 drawings since September 19 without a jackpot winner, growing the estimated jackpot for the Wednesday, December 30 drawing to $363 million or $279.2 million with the cash option selected.

The dual jackpot runs have produced some large Nebraska winners. A $100,000 Powerball Power Play winning ticket for the November 25 drawing was sold at Mega Saver, 4420 South 24th Street in Omaha; another $100,000 Powerball Power Play ticket was sold at Cubby's, 9220 Mormon Bridge Road in Omaha for the December 12 drawing; and a $20,000 Mega Millions with Megaplier winning ticket for the December 22 drawing was sold at Westco, 1120 7th Street in Crawford.

The largest Mega Millions jackpot on record occurred in October 2018 when one winner in South Carolina won a $1.537 billion jackpot. The largest Powerball jackpot on record occurred in January 2016 when three winners in California, Florida and Tennessee split a $1.586 billion jackpot.

Because of the high jackpots, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302 million, and the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=G10blhdwm5olYkcIb4bt-2B2RseNJgHQtZ8RArzCAV4QEdE2Jc9-2FevrJH0oZjxheAhCgEj_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9t4D9LWTP99krvREf42zUykodJoYUQSV-2F1k4Z8ao-2FaDJph9ZkfVXZjxwvtNcdHNFGgXf7QWLylxGpgozsIq6gO-2B3VlQPw-2FHG0cikKUtgRbVKCBd9WgJeC4cYDpjNSsyhB-2FnPx5xD4-2B3-2B3gNBLeFT-2Bse-2BCUY0t0J9exEqB-2BgkfEpRwrYaBaIzSOuF-2BaJ1uU-2BOy6h95nrhSY2Ahe4pv8KbsTVQ6AWznYRy0uh2BVXpgZV9fGziBmpDgutjNIxNqJftjjLKWKZnXCipsY-2BMcSb7GLBA3EHPHsU5urWzNYA4207JuN0oKkgiS7is0-2FkOexQugA9l6MNJ0lNp-2BHa-2B9JzsgJUmBZ0BjZSEWz-2FsxlmKpxaw-3D" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>.

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.

News Release Nebraska LotteryLINCOLN, Neb.-Two big jackpots are up for grabs in the next Mega Millions® and Powerball® drawings. Because of these high jackpots, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to play responsibly.A string of drawings without a jackpot winner has grown the estimated Mega Millions jackpot to its highest level since June. There have been 29 consecutive drawings since September 18 without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for Tuesday, December 29 drawing to $376 million or $287.4 million with the cash option selected.Powerball has also seen its jackpot grow over the last few months. There have been 29 drawings since September 19 without a jackpot winner, growing the estimated jackpot for the Wednesday, December 30 drawing to $363 million or $279.2 million with the cash option selected.The dual jackpot runs have produced some large Nebraska winners. A $100,000 Powerball Power Play winning ticket for the November 25 drawing was sold at Mega Saver, 4420 South 24th Street in Omaha; another $100,000 Powerball Power Play ticket was sold at Cubby's, 9220 Mormon Bridge Road in Omaha for the December 12 drawing; and a $20,000 Mega Millions with Megaplier winning ticket for the December 22 drawing was sold at Westco, 1120 7th Street in Crawford.The largest Mega Millions jackpot on record occurred in October 2018 when one winner in South Carolina won a $1.537 billion jackpot. The largest Powerball jackpot on record occurred in January 2016 when three winners in California, Florida and Tennessee split a $1.586 billion jackpot.Play ResponsiblyBecause of the high jackpots, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302 million, and the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=G10blhdwm5olYkcIb4bt-2B2RseNJgHQtZ8RArzCAV4QEdE2Jc9-2FevrJH0oZjxheAhCgEj_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9t4D9LWTP99krvREf42zUykodJoYUQSV-2F1k4Z8ao-2FaDJph9ZkfVXZjxwvtNcdHNFGgXf7QWLylxGpgozsIq6gO-2B3VlQPw-2FHG0cikKUtgRbVKCBd9WgJeC4cYDpjNSsyhB-2FnPx5xD4-2B3-2B3gNBLeFT-2Bse-2BCUY0t0J9exEqB-2BgkfEpRwrYaBaIzSOuF-2BaJ1uU-2BOy6h95nrhSY2Ahe4pv8KbsTVQ6AWznYRy0uh2BVXpgZV9fGziBmpDgutjNIxNqJftjjLKWKZnXCipsY-2BMcSb7GLBA3EHPHsU5urWzNYA4207JuN0oKkgiS7is0-2FkOexQugA9l6MNJ0lNp-2BHa-2B9JzsgJUmBZ0BjZSEWz-2FsxlmKpxaw-3D" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>.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.

Mega Millions® and Powerball® end 2020 with big jackpots

LINCOLN, Neb. (NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol were busy throughout the state Tuesday as a large winter storm dropped several inches of snow across much of Nebraska. Since the time the storm began late Monday, troopers have responded to more than 200 weather-related incidents.

“Our troopers show dedication to public safety in countless ways, but days like today demonstrate that work from border to border,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our team of troopers and dispatchers is always ready to help.”

Throughout the storm, troopers performed more than 170 motorist assists, which can involve stranded vehicles, slide-offs, or other non-emergency events. Troopers also responded to 28 crashes. Thankfully, there are no reports of life-threatening injuries in any of those crashes.

As the winter weather season continues, NSP urges motorists to always check forecasts before traveling. In the event of winter weather, the Nebraska 511 system provides road condition and closure information via the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;or smartphone app. Any motorist who becomes stranded while traveling can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 on a cell phone or 800-525-5555 on any phone. Call 911 in any emergency.

“We’d also like to salute the team at NDOT, local law enforcement agencies, tow truck operators, local public works crews, and many others for their work on days like today,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Those crews have been working around the clock during the storm to keep the roads as clear as possible and keep traffic moving safely.”

The Nebraska State Patrol advises motorists to keep a winter weather survival kit in each vehicle. Some basic items to include are a First Aid Kit, phone charger, ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, flashlight with extra batteries, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing and winter accessories, jumper cables, towrope, tool kit, matches, candles, red flag or bandana, high energy or dehydrated foods, and bottled water.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609298140839.png" alt="Photo: Nebraska State Patrol (Facebook)" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Nebraska State Patrol (Facebook)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol were busy throughout the state Tuesday as a large winter storm dropped several inches of snow across much of Nebraska. Since the time the storm began late Monday, troopers have responded to more than 200 weather-related incidents.“Our troopers show dedication to public safety in countless ways, but days like today demonstrate that work from border to border,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our team of troopers and dispatchers is always ready to help.”Throughout the storm, troopers performed more than 170 motorist assists, which can involve stranded vehicles, slide-offs, or other non-emergency events. Troopers also responded to 28 crashes. Thankfully, there are no reports of life-threatening injuries in any of those crashes.As the winter weather season continues, NSP urges motorists to always check forecasts before traveling. In the event of winter weather, the Nebraska 511 system provides road condition and closure information via the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;or smartphone app. Any motorist who becomes stranded while traveling can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 on a cell phone or 800-525-5555 on any phone. Call 911 in any emergency.“We’d also like to salute the team at NDOT, local law enforcement agencies, tow truck operators, local public works crews, and many others for their work on days like today,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Those crews have been working around the clock during the storm to keep the roads as clear as possible and keep traffic moving safely.”The Nebraska State Patrol advises motorists to keep a winter weather survival kit in each vehicle. Some basic items to include are a First Aid Kit, phone charger, ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, flashlight with extra batteries, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing and winter accessories, jumper cables, towrope, tool kit, matches, candles, red flag or bandana, high energy or dehydrated foods, and bottled water.

Nebraska troopers respond to over 200 weather-related incidents 

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - A strong winter storm made its way across the Upper Midwest Tuesday, creating treacherous travel conditions, spurring warnings urging people to stay off the roads and closing coronavirus testing sites.

The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for parts of Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Illinois.

Snow was so heavy in western Nebraska Tuesday morning that Interstates 80 and 76 were closed for several hours in both directions after numerous accidents, and the Nebraska Department of Transportation warned people to avoid unnecessary travel.

By 4 p.m. Tuesday, the storm had mostly moved out of Nebraska. The Nebraska State Patrol said troopers responded to more than 150 weather-related incidents, including 129 motorist assists.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609297784430.png" alt="Photo: Nebraska State Patrol (Facebook)" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Nebraska State Patrol (Facebook)</figcaption>
 </figure>DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - A strong winter storm made its way across the Upper Midwest Tuesday, creating treacherous travel conditions, spurring warnings urging people to stay off the roads and closing coronavirus testing sites.The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for parts of Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Illinois.Snow was so heavy in western Nebraska Tuesday morning that Interstates 80 and 76 were closed for several hours in both directions after numerous accidents, and the Nebraska Department of Transportation warned people to avoid unnecessary travel.By 4 p.m. Tuesday, the storm had mostly moved out of Nebraska. The Nebraska State Patrol said troopers responded to more than 150 weather-related incidents, including 129 motorist assists.Many government buildings and properties closed ahead of the storm, including COVID-19 testing sites in Norfolk, O'Neill, Nebraska City, Beatrice, Bassett and Auburn. Planned testing sites in Nebraska City, Cozad, York and Valentine will not open Wednesday. State officials urged Nebraskans to continue registering for testing, which is expected to resume Thursday.Police in Omaha reported several accidents blamed on slick roads. Unofficial snowfall amounts by afternoon included about 6.5 inches (16.5 centimeters) in Lincoln and Omaha, 7.5 inches (19 centimeters) near Nebraska City, 7 inches (18 centimeters) in Wayne and 2 inches (5 centimeters) to 5 inches (13 centimeters) in central Nebraska.Heavy snowfall of up to a foot (30 centimeters), and perhaps more in some spots, was forecast in parts of Iowa, where the state Department of Transportation urged people to delay travel plans. The department's road conditions map showed most highways in the western part of the state covered or partly covered with snow by midday Tuesday."Travel conditions are likely to go downhill all day/night," the Iowa department said on Twitter. "If you must travel in the impacted areas, buckle up, slow down and allow plenty of space between vehicles."Earlier Tuesday, snowfall was heavy, causing visibility problems for motorists and rapidly deteriorating road conditions, Iowa State Patrol spokesman Sgt. Alex Dinkla said. He added that crashes were happening across the state with heavy post-Christmas travel."All our troopers are very busy right now covering crashes all over Iowa. Road conditions are very dangerous," he said.The city of Des Moines had more than 200 employees from public works, parks and recreation, and wastewater reclamation departments on snow removal duty. Public Works Director Jonathan Gano said 100 snow plows, trucks and other equipment were activated to 24-hour operation until the snow stops."We're looking at 8 inches followed by some ice so that's going to be a wonderful complication and I think I've seen the forecast for Jan. 1 which has another 4 to 5 inches," he said.Wisconsin was also bracing for up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) of snow in some areas. The forecast called for 3 to 6 inches of snow in the Milwaukee area.AccuWeather said parts of southeast Nebraska, northeast Kansas, northern Missouri and southern Iowa could see ice accumulations of up to a quarter of an inch, which could weigh down power lines and branches and cause power outages.In Topeka, morning snow gave way to freezing rain and then rain as the temperature moved east. In the Kansas City area, light snow on Tuesday morning resulted in several accidents. Among them were several rollover wrecks on the Kansas side of the metropolitan area.The storm had mostly moved northeast out of Missouri by late Tuesday afternoon.The Missouri Department of Transportation said roads were mostly or partly covered with snow in the northern third of the state. But the department added late Tuesday afternoon that all roads in the central region of the state had been cleared.Forecasts showed the storm would move into the Southern Plains later in the week, when parts of Texas and Oklahoma could receive snow or a wintry mix Wednesday and Thursday. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday placed several state agencies on standby.

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