LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has declared a fish salvage for Hackberry Lake on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge south of Valentine from Dec. 18, 2020, through Sept. 30, 2021.

The lake was scheduled to have its existing fish population renovated during 2019 and 2020 as part of an Aquatic Habitat Project to eliminate common carp on the refuge. However, the renovation has been postponed multiple times due to wet conditions and unsuitable water levels. Salvages are implemented to facilitate angler use of the existing fish in the lake.

During the salvage period at Hackberry Lake:

• Length limits will be rescinded, but daily bag limits will be maintained. Those limits being rescinded are the one-fish-34-inches-or-longer restriction in the northern pike daily bag limit, the one-fish-21-inches-or-longer restriction in the largemouth bass daily bag limit, and the 15-inch minimum length limit for largemouth bass.

• Fish may be taken only by hook-and-line or archery. Game fish may be taken by archery July 1-Sept. 30 while nongame fish, such as common carp, may be taken any time.

Due to concerns for the spread of aquatic invasive species, salvaged fish cannot be sold or used for stocking into other public or private bodies of water.

The Aquatic Habitat Project is a joint effort of Game and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608228555307.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has declared a fish salvage for Hackberry Lake on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge south of Valentine from Dec. 18, 2020, through Sept. 30, 2021.The lake was scheduled to have its existing fish population renovated during 2019 and 2020 as part of an Aquatic Habitat Project to eliminate common carp on the refuge. However, the renovation has been postponed multiple times due to wet conditions and unsuitable water levels. Salvages are implemented to facilitate angler use of the existing fish in the lake.During the salvage period at Hackberry Lake:• Length limits will be rescinded, but daily bag limits will be maintained. Those limits being rescinded are the one-fish-34-inches-or-longer restriction in the northern pike daily bag limit, the one-fish-21-inches-or-longer restriction in the largemouth bass daily bag limit, and the 15-inch minimum length limit for largemouth bass.• Fish may be taken only by hook-and-line or archery. Game fish may be taken by archery July 1-Sept. 30 while nongame fish, such as common carp, may be taken any time.Due to concerns for the spread of aquatic invasive species, salvaged fish cannot be sold or used for stocking into other public or private bodies of water.The Aquatic Habitat Project is a joint effort of Game and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Fish salvage extended for Valentine NWR’s Hackberry Lake

LINCOLN, Neb.-Nebraska State Troopers will be working overtime during the holidays to keep Nebraska roads safe. The Nebraska State Patrol is teaming up with hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the country for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” effort.

The campaign runs from Friday, December 18, through Friday, January 1, and includes dozens of law enforcement agencies throughout Nebraska. Troopers will perform high-visibility patrols throughout the state, monitoring the roads for impaired drivers.

“As we close out 2020, we urge everyone on the road to work together to make these final weeks safe for those traveling,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We’ll all have some interesting memories of this year, but losing a loved one in a traffic crash is a memory nobody should take from the holiday season.”

NSP urges motorists to take advantage of many methods available to prevent impaired driving. Multiple organizations offer free rides during the holidays, in addition to options such as ride-sharing, taxi services, or designating a driver.

This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $23,000 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608228459851.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Nebraska State Troopers will be working overtime during the holidays to keep Nebraska roads safe. The Nebraska State Patrol is teaming up with hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the country for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” effort.The campaign runs from Friday, December 18, through Friday, January 1, and includes dozens of law enforcement agencies throughout Nebraska. Troopers will perform high-visibility patrols throughout the state, monitoring the roads for impaired drivers.“As we close out 2020, we urge everyone on the road to work together to make these final weeks safe for those traveling,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We’ll all have some interesting memories of this year, but losing a loved one in a traffic crash is a memory nobody should take from the holiday season.”NSP urges motorists to take advantage of many methods available to prevent impaired driving. Multiple organizations offer free rides during the holidays, in addition to options such as ride-sharing, taxi services, or designating a driver.This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $23,000 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Nebraska troopers to patrol for impaired driving during holidays

Electrical and engineering students at Mid-Plains Community College will benefit from a $10,000 donation.

The funds were raised during the annual&nbsp;<a>Wells Fargo Nebraska Open golf tournament&nbsp;</a>in Columbus in September.

The Wells Fargo Nebraska Open is endorsed and operated by the Nebraska Section of the PGA and the Nebraska Golf Association and is coordinated by the Nebraska Public Power District.&nbsp;

Proceeds from the tournament are distributed through&nbsp;the Central Community College Foundation&nbsp;to the five community colleges within NPPD’s service area.

A total of $50,000 was raised this year. MPCC’s share will be used to provide scholarships to students pursuing careers in the electrical and engineering fields.

The golf tournament has generated more than $1.7 million in scholarship money since its inception in 1992. Of that, MPCC has received $341,160.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608228308412.png" alt="MPCC President Ryan Purdy&nbsp;accepts a check for $10,000 from Bill Hoyt, member of the Nebraska Public Power District Board of Directors.The funds were raised through the Wells Fargo Nebraska Open golf tournament in Columbus in September and will be used for scholarships for electrical and engineering students." />
 <figcaption>MPCC President Ryan Purdy&nbsp;accepts a check for $10,000 from Bill Hoyt, member of the Nebraska Public Power District Board of Directors.The funds were raised through the Wells Fargo Nebraska Open golf tournament in Columbus in September and will be used for scholarships for electrical and engineering students.</figcaption>
 </figure>Electrical and engineering students at Mid-Plains Community College will benefit from a $10,000 donation. The funds were raised during the annual&nbsp;<a>Wells Fargo Nebraska Open golf tournament&nbsp;</a>in Columbus in September.The Wells Fargo Nebraska Open is endorsed and operated by the Nebraska Section of the PGA and the Nebraska Golf Association and is coordinated by the Nebraska Public Power District.&nbsp;Proceeds from the tournament are distributed through&nbsp;the Central Community College Foundation&nbsp;to the five community colleges within NPPD’s service area.A total of $50,000 was raised this year. MPCC’s share will be used to provide scholarships to students pursuing careers in the electrical and engineering fields.The golf tournament has generated more than $1.7 million in scholarship money since its inception in 1992. Of that, MPCC has received $341,160.

Golf tourney yields $10,000 for MPCC scholarships

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The economy is improving in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states, but the region continues to lag behind where it was before the coronavirus pandemic began, according to a new monthly survey of bankers.

The overall index for the region improved to 51.6 in December from November's 46.8. Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy while a score below 50 suggests a shrinking economy.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, said the region still has about 95,000 fewer jobs than it did before the pandemic began, and it will take many months of growth to erase all the job losses. The hiring index slipped to a neutral 50 score in December from November's positive reading of 53.2.

But the bankers are confident the economy will improve over the next six months because crop prices, federal farm aid and exports have all increased recently, Goss said. The confidence index jumped to 62.9 in December from November's 50.

Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The economy is improving in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states, but the region continues to lag behind where it was before the coronavirus pandemic began, according to a new monthly survey of bankers.The overall index for the region improved to 51.6 in December from November's 46.8. Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy while a score below 50 suggests a shrinking economy.Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, said the region still has about 95,000 fewer jobs than it did before the pandemic began, and it will take many months of growth to erase all the job losses. The hiring index slipped to a neutral 50 score in December from November's positive reading of 53.2.But the bankers are confident the economy will improve over the next six months because crop prices, federal farm aid and exports have all increased recently, Goss said. The confidence index jumped to 62.9 in December from November's 50.Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

Bankers say economy is improving in rural parts of 10 states

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - State officials are encouraging Nebraskans to consider getting tested for the coronavirus before the holidays if they plan to see extended family.

The state's chief medical officer, Dr. Gary Anthone, said taking a test for the virus before Christmas would add an extra layer of protection for families that plan to gather together.

"Testing appointments are available so we encourage anyone who plans to travel or who plans to see extended family to take advantage of the opportunity to be tested," Anthone said. "If you're not feeling well but think it's a cold, we want you to get tested."

Nebraska reported 1,242 new virus cases and 10 new deaths Wednesday to give the state 152,103 cases and 1,448 deaths since he pandemic began.

Over the past two weeks, the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased from 1,787.43 new cases per day on Dec. 2 to 1,179.71 new cases per day on Wednesday.

The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Wednesday to 646 from the previous day's 677. That number has been trending down since the state set a record of 987 on Nov. 20.

About 28% of Nebraska's hospital beds remain available, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online&nbsp;</a>virus tracker.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606943297876.png" alt="Samples undergo coronavirus testing at a lab that usually turns results within 24 hours. Nine months into the pandemic, dozens of Kansas nursing homes are still struggling with access to fast testing. Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption>Samples undergo coronavirus testing at a lab that usually turns results within 24 hours. Nine months into the pandemic, dozens of Kansas nursing homes are still struggling with access to fast testing. Celia Llopis-Jepsen / Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - State officials are encouraging Nebraskans to consider getting tested for the coronavirus before the holidays if they plan to see extended family.The state's chief medical officer, Dr. Gary Anthone, said taking a test for the virus before Christmas would add an extra layer of protection for families that plan to gather together."Testing appointments are available so we encourage anyone who plans to travel or who plans to see extended family to take advantage of the opportunity to be tested," Anthone said. "If you're not feeling well but think it's a cold, we want you to get tested."Nebraska reported 1,242 new virus cases and 10 new deaths Wednesday to give the state 152,103 cases and 1,448 deaths since he pandemic began.Over the past two weeks, the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased from 1,787.43 new cases per day on Dec. 2 to 1,179.71 new cases per day on Wednesday.The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Wednesday to 646 from the previous day's 677. That number has been trending down since the state set a record of 987 on Nov. 20.About 28% of Nebraska's hospital beds remain available, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online&nbsp;</a>virus tracker.

Nebraskans encouraged to get virus test before the holidays

A commencement ceremony will be held on Friday, Dec. 18, for 328 University of Nebraska Medical Center students. The link to virtual ceremonies is HERE.

&nbsp; Below is a list of students and their hometowns.&nbsp;

UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING KEARNEY DIVISION&nbsp;

Bachelor of Science in Nursing&nbsp;

Kearney -- Delaney Eckhoff&nbsp;(With High Distinction), Anna Nelson&nbsp;

Ord -- Tessa Copp&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;

UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING LINCOLN DIVISION&nbsp;

Creighton -- Randy Wilmes&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Mary Andrew&nbsp;(With High Distinction), Mackenzie Derby, Jessica Reid, Christopher Williams, Leah Wilson&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;

Pawnee City -- Michelle Wehrbein&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;

Ravenna -- Paige Lucas&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;

McKinney, TX -- Mallory Kundee&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;

Master of Science in Nursing&nbsp;

UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING OMAHA DIVISION&nbsp;

Columbus -- Summer Smejkal, Ann Smith, Chelsea White&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;

Hebron -- Michael White&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Chelsea Lintz, Lisa Novotny, Amber Vinton&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;

Omaha -- Mary Carney, Sara Cipolla, Michael Collins, Garrett Connor, Kyle Doerr, Juliann Papez Hellman, Bre Aunna James, Nicole Lathrop, Mary Lindsay, Emma Lonergan, Kira Luxon&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Kayla Mass, Rachel Mattley&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Timothy Nienhueser, Megan Ruzicka&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Kylee Sparano, Tristan Stanley, Shaun Warkentin, Claire Wilson, Brittney Zeman&nbsp;

Stanton -- Sara King&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;

Overland Park, KS -- Jamie Rickert&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;

Stafford, KS -- Maresa Sierra&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;

Gambia -- Omar Ceesay&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;

Omaha -- Zachary Beerman, Darrel Moreland III&nbsp;

Post Masters Certificate in Nursing&nbsp;

Omaha -- Jennifer Baumert, Amanda Butler, Theresa Jizba&nbsp;

UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING NORTHERN DIVISION (NORFOLK)&nbsp;

UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING WEST NEBRASKA DIVISION (SCOTTSBLUFF)&nbsp;

Wray, CO -- Danielle Lenz&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;

Lincoln -- William Hynes, Yuseph Khan&nbsp;

COLLEGE OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS&nbsp;

Bachelor of Science (Military)&nbsp;

Los Angeles, CA -- Maria Virginia Cinco Cuayzon&nbsp;

Oxnard, CA -- Stephanie Ruiz Barrientos&nbsp;

O'Fallon, IL -- Matthew Obernuefemann&nbsp;

Atlantic City, NJ -- Katrina Cooley&nbsp;

San Antonio, TX -- Catherine Johnson, John Roberts, Joshua Saniel, Jamie Virden&nbsp;

Harrisonburg, VA -- Leodegario Alonso&nbsp;

Siren, WI -- Jeffrey Alden Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging &amp; Therapeutic Science&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Drake Beckner&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;

Lyndhurst, NJ -- Katarzyna Augustyn&nbsp;

A commencement ceremony will be held on Friday, Dec. 18, for 328 University of Nebraska Medical Center students. The link to virtual ceremonies is HERE.&nbsp; Below is a list of students and their hometowns.&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING KEARNEY DIVISION&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Dalton -- Kathryn Ernest&nbsp;Kearney -- Delaney Eckhoff&nbsp;(With High Distinction), Anna Nelson&nbsp;Kenesaw -- Evan Uden&nbsp;Ord -- Tessa Copp&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;Oxford -- Megan Bergquist&nbsp;Grover Beach, CA -- Riley Hubbell&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING LINCOLN DIVISION&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Columbus -- Jocelyn Tierney&nbsp;Creighton -- Randy Wilmes&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Crete -- Kaitlyn Malone&nbsp;Hallam -- Sarah Howat&nbsp;Lincoln -- Mary Andrew&nbsp;(With High Distinction), Mackenzie Derby, Jessica Reid, Christopher Williams, Leah Wilson&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;Pawnee City -- Michelle Wehrbein&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Ravenna -- Paige Lucas&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;Granada Hills, CA -- John Schultz&nbsp;Andover, MN -- Miranda Lynch&nbsp;McKinney, TX -- Mallory Kundee&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Master of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Lincoln -- Tami Orton&nbsp;Doctor of Nursing Practice&nbsp;Rochester, MN -- Heather Nielsen&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING OMAHA DIVISION&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Bellevue -- Ralph Nadeau&nbsp;Columbus -- Summer Smejkal, Ann Smith, Chelsea White&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;Gering -- Amy Kicken&nbsp;Hadar -- Myles Sudbeck&nbsp;Hebron -- Michael White&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;Lincoln -- Chelsea Lintz, Lisa Novotny, Amber Vinton&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;North Platte -- Jennifer Cook&nbsp;Omaha -- Mary Carney, Sara Cipolla, Michael Collins, Garrett Connor, Kyle Doerr, Juliann Papez Hellman, Bre Aunna James, Nicole Lathrop, Mary Lindsay, Emma Lonergan, Kira Luxon&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Kayla Mass, Rachel Mattley&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Timothy Nienhueser, Megan Ruzicka&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Kylee Sparano, Tristan Stanley, Shaun Warkentin, Claire Wilson, Brittney Zeman&nbsp;Papillion -- Madasen Sortino&nbsp;Stanton -- Sara King&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;Wymore -- Alexandra Kujath&nbsp;Onawa, IA -- Mikayla Miller&nbsp;Overland Park, KS -- Jamie Rickert&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;Stafford, KS -- Maresa Sierra&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;Columbia, SC -- Fatema Bhagat&nbsp;Waco, TX -- Carlos Oliva&nbsp;Gambia -- Omar Ceesay&nbsp;(With Academic Excellence)&nbsp;Master of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Omaha -- Zachary Beerman, Darrel Moreland III&nbsp;Post Masters Certificate in Nursing&nbsp;Omaha -- Amanda McCormick&nbsp;Papillion -- Erica Fritz&nbsp;Doctor of Nursing Practice&nbsp;Omaha -- Jennifer Baumert, Amanda Butler, Theresa Jizba&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING NORTHERN DIVISION (NORFOLK)&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Columbus -- Christopher Bailly&nbsp;Clarkson -- Brooke Theilen&nbsp;Seward -- Kayleah Moravec&nbsp;Master of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Petersburg -- Rachell Majerus&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF NURSING WEST NEBRASKA DIVISION (SCOTTSBLUFF)&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in Nursing&nbsp;Gering -- Dakota Wademan&nbsp;Aurora, CO -- Ervin vonSeggern&nbsp;Avon, CO -- Whitney Georges&nbsp;Wray, CO -- Danielle Lenz&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Edmonds, WA -- Sidney Eck&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF MEDICINE&nbsp;Doctor of Medicine&nbsp;Lincoln -- William Hynes, Yuseph Khan&nbsp;Omaha -- Isaiah Crum&nbsp;COLLEGE OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS&nbsp;Bachelor of Science (Military)&nbsp;Los Angeles, CA -- Maria Virginia Cinco Cuayzon&nbsp;Oxnard, CA -- Stephanie Ruiz Barrientos&nbsp;Griffin, GA -- Andrew Tallman&nbsp;Grovetown, GA -- Felecia Clemons&nbsp;Altoona, IA -- Jennifer Legg&nbsp;Alton, IL -- Tamara Cardenas&nbsp;Aurora, IL -- Rony Rathod&nbsp;Naperville, IL -- Gina Maro&nbsp;O'Fallon, IL -- Matthew Obernuefemann&nbsp;Kent City, MI -- Courtney Decker&nbsp;Quincy, MI -- Joel Budd&nbsp;Statesville, NC -- Priscilla Alejo&nbsp;Atlantic City, NJ -- Katrina Cooley&nbsp;McMinnville, OR -- Jenna Doyle&nbsp;Kingwood, TX -- Lianne Blackburn&nbsp;San Antonio, TX -- Catherine Johnson, John Roberts, Joshua Saniel, Jamie Virden&nbsp;Windcrest, TX -- Jessica Gonzalez&nbsp;Harrisonburg, VA -- Leodegario Alonso&nbsp;Norfolk, VA -- Jasmine Taborn&nbsp;Springfield, VA -- Salmin Roebuck&nbsp;Siren, WI -- Jeffrey Alden Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging &amp; Therapeutic Science&nbsp;Lincoln -- Drake Beckner&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Clifton, NJ -- Ramia Hout&nbsp;Lyndhurst, NJ -- Katarzyna Augustyn&nbsp;Edmond, OK -- Sameer Hasan&nbsp;Beaumont, TX -- Hannah Mosley&nbsp;Master of Medical Nutrition&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Jessica Bollig&nbsp;Imperial -- Tapainga Kahle&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Springfield -- Raelyn Haubensak&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Colorado Springs, CO -- Mikaela Clemons&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Rock Rapids, IA -- Angel Rasmussen&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Yankton, SD -- Kristen Steiner&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Master of Perfusion Science&nbsp;Mayfield Heights, OH -- Elmir Delic&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)&nbsp;Master of Physician Assistant Studies (Military)&nbsp;Marietta, GA -- Benjamin Allumbaugh&nbsp;Muncy, PA -- Ryan Boatman&nbsp;Copperas Cove, TX -- Guy-Raphael Toussaint&nbsp;El Paso, TX -- Rashad Holley&nbsp;Harris, TX -- Karen Leal&nbsp;Houston, TX -- Bechara Rahbani&nbsp;Hubbard, TX -- Thomas Wojak&nbsp;Rosenberg, TX -- Marcus Halsey III&nbsp;Master of Physician Assistant Studies&nbsp;Alliance -- Mikenzie Nordeen&nbsp;Beatrice -- Elizabeth Georlett&nbsp;Bellevue -- Haelee Kowalski&nbsp;Chambers -- Bethany Lambert&nbsp;Columbus -- Katelyn Baumgart&nbsp;Culbertson -- Victoria Viox&nbsp;Fremont -- Jordan Eller&nbsp;Grand Island -- Alexander Bednar, Thomas Nguyen, Kathryn Palu&nbsp;Gretna -- Daina Keehn, Drew Wellenstein&nbsp;Kearney -- Haylee Gustafson&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Kenesaw -- Evan Uden&nbsp;Lincoln -- Blake Hoffmeyer, Madison Ingamells&nbsp;Omaha -- Dylan Carter&nbsp;(With Distinction), Molly Hughes, Emily Pachunka&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction), Natalie Renshaw, Margaret Rubin, Nathan Strasser, Amber Vaughan, Bridget Wickstrom&nbsp;Pender -- Chelsea Brinkman&nbsp;Spalding -- Taylor Glesinger&nbsp;Sprague -- Janelle Mitchell&nbsp;Weeping Water -- Ryan Nielsen&nbsp;West Point -- Nicole Linton&nbsp;Tucson, AZ -- Brooke Green&nbsp;Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -- Karli Koval&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;San Diego, CA -- Krystina Merlan Hernandez&nbsp;Colorado Springs, CO -- Madeline Wood Ellis&nbsp;Denver, CO -- Ilsa Knutson&nbsp;Thornton, CO -- Sophia Proano&nbsp;(With Distinction)&nbsp;Gulf Breeze, FL -- Marguerite Crozier&nbsp;Tampa, FL -- Patrick Duffy&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Cedar Rapids, IA -- Amanda Jacobsen&nbsp;Lawton, IA -- Taylor King&nbsp;Spencer, IA -- Ann Magnuson&nbsp;Boise, ID -- Josephine Ngo&nbsp;Bloomington, IL -- Parker Johnson&nbsp;Belleville, KS -- Megan Holmes&nbsp;Grinnell, KS -- Carolyn Mense&nbsp;Olathe, KS -- Isabella Baldacci&nbsp;Overland Park, KS -- Michelle Gilden&nbsp;Monroe, MI -- Jason Lee&nbsp;Menahga, MN -- Ryan Skoog&nbsp;Mendota Heights, MN -- Anthony Marchio Jr.&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Columbia, MO -- Rebekah Laupp&nbsp;Billings, MT -- Kasie DeVere Cooper&nbsp;Aloha, OR -- Amanda Osborne&nbsp;Dell Rapids, SD -- Kiley Reecy&nbsp;Kimball, SD -- Mary Kroupa&nbsp;Sioux Falls, SD -- Anne Sawyer&nbsp;Austin, TX -- Julia Lainhart&nbsp;(With High Distinction)&nbsp;Casper, WY -- Claire McGinley&nbsp;UNMC COLLEGE OF GRADUATE STUDIES&nbsp;Master of Science&nbsp;Omaha -- Elizabeth Wellsandt&nbsp;Osceola -- Landon Peterson&nbsp;Fairfield, IA -- Wyatt Andersen&nbsp;Doctor of Philosophy&nbsp;Cortland -- Jacy Hannan&nbsp;Omaha -- Jahaun Azadmanesh, Sumit Kar&nbsp;Papillion -- Natalie Mandolfo&nbsp;Wahoo -- Danielle Frodyma&nbsp;Los Angeles, CA -- Jonathan Herskovitz&nbsp;Reedley, CA -- Eileen Jimenez&nbsp;Chicago, IL -- Catherine Orzechowski&nbsp;Fairmont, MN -- Chelsea Bulock&nbsp;Sioux Falls, SD -- Scott Mulder&nbsp;Bangladesh -- Morshed Alam&nbsp;China -- Yuxiang Zhu&nbsp;Germany -- Patrick Raedler&nbsp;Ghana -- Adams Kusi Appiah&nbsp;India -- Irfana Saleem, Dhruvkumar Soni&nbsp;Saudi Arabia -- Sameer Alshehri&nbsp;Sri Lanka -- R. M. Nirosha Rathnayake&nbsp;COLLEGE OF PUBLIC HEALTH&nbsp;Certificate in Public Health&nbsp;Omaha -- Jessica Gutierrez&nbsp;Calumet City, IL -- Dominique Holmes&nbsp;Nigeria -- Judith Obodougo&nbsp;Master of Health Administration&nbsp;China -- Sha Tao&nbsp;Master of Public Health&nbsp;Broken Bow -- Jill Oatman&nbsp;Lincoln -- Alyssa Damke, Shardae Sims&nbsp;Minden -- Rachel Rutt&nbsp;Omaha -- Decature Banker, Shelby Larson, Samantha Wall&nbsp;West Point -- Adrienne Moody&nbsp;Bondurant, IA -- Cassandra Kennedy&nbsp;Rock Port, MO -- David Moran&nbsp;St. Louis, MO -- Anthony Johnson Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;Avon, OH -- Dunia&nbsp;&nbsp;Zahrieh&nbsp;Redfield, SD -- Chessa Quenzer&nbsp;Lynchburg, VA -- Katelyn Nelson&nbsp;Seattle, WA -- Andrew Fullmer&nbsp;

328 UNMC students to receive diplomas December 18 

OMAHA, Nebraska – As part of its continuing efforts to reduce drug misuse and overdose, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is launching a winter campaign urging the public to “Secure Your Meds.” The current health crisis has magnified the importance of addressing the issue of prescription-drug misuse. With Americans spending more time at home due to the pandemic, now is a good opportunity to clean out medicine cabinets and secure expired or unused medications. This one action can prevent medications from getting into the hands of children and others who may misuse them. 

The goal of the Secure Your Meds campaign is to raise awareness of the responsibility to keep prescription and other medications stored securely. Medications that are no longer used or have reached their expiration date should be secured until they can be disposed of in one of the 11,000 authorized, year-round collection sites, or until the next DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, when patients can dispose of unused medications properly at a DEA collection site.  

“Nearly 70 percent of drug overdose deaths in the United States involve opioids,” Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Richard Salter, Jr., said. “Many of these deaths could be prevented through the administration of Naloxone (Narcan) which reverses the overdose symptoms, and is available without a prescription from a doctor at most major pharmacy chains throughout the country. Naloxone can be given to an overdose victim by friends, family members or first responders. By safeguarding and properly disposing of unused medications we will save lives.” 

Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused and misused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets.  

For more information on authorized collection sites, click <a href="https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608205415049.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Nebraska – As part of its continuing efforts to reduce drug misuse and overdose, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is launching a winter campaign urging the public to “Secure Your Meds.” The current health crisis has magnified the importance of addressing the issue of prescription-drug misuse. With Americans spending more time at home due to the pandemic, now is a good opportunity to clean out medicine cabinets and secure expired or unused medications. This one action can prevent medications from getting into the hands of children and others who may misuse them. The goal of the Secure Your Meds campaign is to raise awareness of the responsibility to keep prescription and other medications stored securely. Medications that are no longer used or have reached their expiration date should be secured until they can be disposed of in one of the 11,000 authorized, year-round collection sites, or until the next DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, when patients can dispose of unused medications properly at a DEA collection site. “Nearly 70 percent of drug overdose deaths in the United States involve opioids,” Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Richard Salter, Jr., said. “Many of these deaths could be prevented through the administration of Naloxone (Narcan) which reverses the overdose symptoms, and is available without a prescription from a doctor at most major pharmacy chains throughout the country. Naloxone can be given to an overdose victim by friends, family members or first responders. By safeguarding and properly disposing of unused medications we will save lives.” Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused and misused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets. For more information on authorized collection sites, click <a href="https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1">HERE</a>.

DEA launches "Secure Your Meds" winter campaign

Mid-Plains Community College will close next week in observance of the upcoming holidays. All campuses, including those in McCook, North Platte, Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 3. Information about MPCC, its programs and resources can be found on the college’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">mpcc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608168256830.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mid-Plains Community College will close next week in observance of the upcoming holidays. All campuses, including those in McCook, North Platte, Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 3. Information about MPCC, its programs and resources can be found on the college’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">mpcc.edu</a>.

MPCC campuses to close for holiday break

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts held a press briefing at the State Capitol to provide an update on the State’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; The Governor reported that coronavirus-related hospitalizations have declined over 30% since November 20th.&nbsp; Nebraska is currently in the “yellow” phase of its pandemic response plan.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts also shared news that over 1,700 Nebraskans had already received their coronavirus vaccination as of this morning.&nbsp; The initial doses have gone to frontline healthcare workers such as critical care physicians and nurses, ER staff, and people who handle infectious materials at hospitals.&nbsp; So far, 13 hospitals have administered vaccines.&nbsp;

Angie Ling, Incident Commander for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), joined the Governor to overview the State’s COVID-19 vaccination plan and the work being done to implement it.

Rabbi Mendel Katzman, Executive Director of One Chabad in Omaha, shared a Hanukkah reflection.&nbsp; The Hanukkah celebration, known as the Festival of Lights, began on December 10th&nbsp;and continues through December 18th.

Weysan Dun, community volunteer leader with the American Red Cross, emphasized the ongoing need for blood donations.&nbsp; He also informed Nebraskans about upcoming opportunities to give blood.

Video from today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fxccsf22v8mwiue4%2FGov.%2520Press%2520Conf%252012.16.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C931a785245d84a458a8708d8a212c8fb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637437548853105096%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=y%2FYTCPZ7RvpXWdqFOtSRRkzGQjPi6yQfhnP5Z2dF4S8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608168099190.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts held a press briefing at the State Capitol to provide an update on the State’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; The Governor reported that coronavirus-related hospitalizations have declined over 30% since November 20th.&nbsp; Nebraska is currently in the “yellow” phase of its pandemic response plan.&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts also shared news that over 1,700 Nebraskans had already received their coronavirus vaccination as of this morning.&nbsp; The initial doses have gone to frontline healthcare workers such as critical care physicians and nurses, ER staff, and people who handle infectious materials at hospitals.&nbsp; So far, 13 hospitals have administered vaccines.&nbsp;Angie Ling, Incident Commander for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), joined the Governor to overview the State’s COVID-19 vaccination plan and the work being done to implement it.Rabbi Mendel Katzman, Executive Director of One Chabad in Omaha, shared a Hanukkah reflection.&nbsp; The Hanukkah celebration, known as the Festival of Lights, began on December 10th&nbsp;and continues through December 18th.Weysan Dun, community volunteer leader with the American Red Cross, emphasized the ongoing need for blood donations.&nbsp; He also informed Nebraskans about upcoming opportunities to give blood.Gov. Ricketts: Coronavirus Vaccination<ul>
 <li>Nebraska has received its first shipments of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp; As of 9:00 am this morning, 1,746 Nebraskans already have been vaccinated.</li><li>Moderna’s vaccine may be approved by the FDA as early as Friday, December 18th.&nbsp; If approved as expected, the first injections of this vaccine will begin next week.As a reminder, both vaccines require two doses, spaced a few weeks apart.</li><li>As a reminder, both vaccines require two doses, spaced a few weeks apart.</li><li>We’ve previously announced our groups prioritized for vaccination in Phase 1A:Healthcare personnel (hospitals, home health care, pharmacies, EMS, outpatient, public health)Long-term care facility residents and staff</li><li>Healthcare personnel (hospitals, home health care, pharmacies, EMS, outpatient, public health)</li><li>Long-term care facility residents and staff</li><li>As Nebraska receives more vaccine doses in the coming months, the amount of detailed planning required increases.</li><li>DHHS requested personnel to support its effort to gather information from local agencies and organizations that have workers in priority groups.</li><li>Starting this week, the Nebraska National Guard has activated 17 personnel to support DHHS.</li><li>They will collect information to help prioritize where tens of thousands of future doses go, following the plans made by DHHS for Phase 1B of our vaccination plan.This is to ensure we get the right number of vaccine doses to frontline workers and priority groups in order to have the greatest benefit throughout the state.</li><li>This is to ensure we get the right number of vaccine doses to frontline workers and priority groups in order to have the greatest benefit throughout the state.</li>
 </ul>Angie Ling: Coronavirus Vaccination<ul>
 <li>The Pfizer coronavirus vaccine arrived to Nebraska on Monday.&nbsp; By the end of today, all 15,600 doses should be in the hands of hospitals receiving the first allocation.</li><li>Federal agencies are reviewing the Moderna vaccine this week. &nbsp;If approved, Nebraska is ready to receive shipments of the Moderna vaccine early next week.32,400 doses of Moderna’s vaccine have been allocated to Nebraska for next week.&nbsp; These doses will be distributed to 112 hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and local health departments.</li><li>32,400 doses of Moderna’s vaccine have been allocated to Nebraska for next week.&nbsp; These doses will be distributed to 112 hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and local health departments.</li><li>The U.S. vaccine safety system has a rigorous process to ensure safety. &nbsp;The Pfizer vaccine endured a significant amount of scrutiny during clinical trials in which more than 40,000 individuals participated.</li><li>The Pfizer vaccine was 95% effective in a phase 3 clinical trial.&nbsp; Comparatively, the flu vaccine is usually 40-60% effective.</li><li>The COVID-19 vaccine does not contain a live virus and cannot give someone the coronavirus.</li><li>Potential side effects for the coronavirus vaccine are similar to those experienced by people who get a flu shot.Soreness at the injection site, fever, headaches, and body aches that usually go away within 24 hours.Unless symptoms worsen, there is no need to seek medical care.</li><li>Soreness at the injection site, fever, headaches, and body aches that usually go away within 24 hours.</li><li>Unless symptoms worsen, there is no need to seek medical care.</li>
 </ul>Rabbi Mendel Katzman: Hanukkah<ul>
 <li>Around the year 140 B.C.E., the story of Hanukkah occurred.A tyrant, pretending God to be non-existent, challenged those faithful people who were practicing their religion, praying, and connecting to the One above.The few godly people prevailed over the many who attacked them.</li><li>A tyrant, pretending God to be non-existent, challenged those faithful people who were practicing their religion, praying, and connecting to the One above.</li><li>The few godly people prevailed over the many who attacked them.</li><li>Hanukkah is really the only Jewish practice that takes place outdoors.&nbsp; The Seder and other practices happen inside our homes or houses of worship.</li><li>Likewise, the only time we pray outside—aside from Hanukkah—is when there’s a plague.</li><li>We’re all united as one nation under God. We pray together that...All of those affected by the coronavirus will receive healing.All of those who are healthy will remain healthy.We together will create more ways to connect with God and to be charitable to our neighbors.</li><li>All of those affected by the coronavirus will receive healing.</li><li>All of those who are healthy will remain healthy.</li><li>We together will create more ways to connect with God and to be charitable to our neighbors.</li>
 </ul>Weysan Dun: Blood Donation<ul>
 <li>This season is traditionally very challenging in terms of maintaining adequate blood supplies in our state and country.&nbsp;This is due to the holidays; winter weather; and the prevalence of cold, flu, and other seasonal illnesses in the community.</li><li>This is due to the holidays; winter weather; and the prevalence of cold, flu, and other seasonal illnesses in the community.</li><li>We’re asking Nebraskans to step up to donate blood and sponsor blood drives.</li><li>A shortage of blood may affect people who need emergency surgery, victims of accidents, and cancer patients in need of periodic transfusion.</li><li>One single blood donation can potentially save three lives.</li><li>The pandemic has caused the cancellation of many blood drives.&nbsp; In Nebraska alone, we’ve seen over 1,300 blood drives cancelled since the beginning of the pandemic, leading to the projected loss of around 35,000 units of collected blood.</li><li>Blood drives are conducted with the highest standards of safety and infection control.&nbsp; All staff and donors are subjected to health screenings, everyone wears a mask during the process, social distancing is maintained, and there’s an aggressive program of disinfection at each collection station.</li><li>The American Red Cross tests all blood donations for the presence of COVID-19 antibodies.</li><li>Individuals interested in donating blood are encouraged to go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redcross.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C931a785245d84a458a8708d8a212c8fb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637437548853095130%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=PZuVkjvAcDs3xJBDUNe%2BVAcwEdsGD3%2Bz2nGX9A6BWiU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;and make an appointment to donate.&nbsp; Appointments are required in order to maintain social distancing.&nbsp; Organizations interested in sponsoring a blood drive can also submit an application on the website.</li>
 </ul>Video from today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fxccsf22v8mwiue4%2FGov.%2520Press%2520Conf%252012.16.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C931a785245d84a458a8708d8a212c8fb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637437548853105096%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=y%2FYTCPZ7RvpXWdqFOtSRRkzGQjPi6yQfhnP5Z2dF4S8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts highlights beginning of vaccinations, encourages Nebraskans to donate blood

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A coalition of Nebraska mayors called on state officials Wednesday to finish a series of highway upgrades that were unveiled in 1988 but never completed because of a lack of funding.

The mayors sent a letter to state lawmakers, urging them to make roads a top priority in the 2021 legislative session. They also questioned why Nebraska is one of two states that don't use bonding to finance highway projects.

The mayors are pushing for the completion of the Nebraska Expressway System, which was designed to connect the state's larger cities to one another and the interstate system with four-lane highways. They note that, of the 600 miles of four-lane highways that were promised, nearly one-third are still unfinished.

"The result is more motorists are being killed every year on dangerously crowded two-lane highways and communities' economic growth opportunities are significantly limited," the mayors said in the letter.

Gov. Pete Ricketts on Wednesday reiterated his opposition to bonding for road projects, arguing that the state has always avoided that kind of debt and should continue to do so.

The letter was signed by the mayors of 21 cities, including Norfolk, Fremont and Columbus.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A coalition of Nebraska mayors called on state officials Wednesday to finish a series of highway upgrades that were unveiled in 1988 but never completed because of a lack of funding.The mayors sent a letter to state lawmakers, urging them to make roads a top priority in the 2021 legislative session. They also questioned why Nebraska is one of two states that don't use bonding to finance highway projects.The mayors are pushing for the completion of the Nebraska Expressway System, which was designed to connect the state's larger cities to one another and the interstate system with four-lane highways. They note that, of the 600 miles of four-lane highways that were promised, nearly one-third are still unfinished."The result is more motorists are being killed every year on dangerously crowded two-lane highways and communities' economic growth opportunities are significantly limited," the mayors said in the letter.Gov. Pete Ricketts on Wednesday reiterated his opposition to bonding for road projects, arguing that the state has always avoided that kind of debt and should continue to do so.The letter was signed by the mayors of 21 cities, including Norfolk, Fremont and Columbus.

Nebraska mayors call on state to finish promised roadwork


Communities for Kids
North Platte and fiscal agent Families First Partnership is excited
to announce that Diane Livingston has accepted the position as the
North Platte Communities for Kids Community Coordinator for Early Childhood in the North Platte area. 

 Diane is a native to the North
Platte area, brings years of experience related to early childhood
education programs and is passionate about fulfilling the Community for
Kids North Platte’s mission: all
children of the North Platte Community will have access and
experiences in high-quality childcare and education.




This
position was made available when Communities for Kids North Platte
was awarded a $40,000 grant through a Preschool Development Grant
from the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (Nebraska Children).
Through this federal DHHS Preschool Development Grant (PDG), there
are a&nbsp;series of early care and educational opportunities for
communities across Nebraska to receive, such as building local early
childhood infrastructure, developing community-wide plans to support
all types of child care systems, and focusing on increasing quality,
availability, and access to excellent early child care. In addition,
Communities for Kids Plus (C4K+) will help local communities build
local early childhood Communities for Kids who were awarded this
grant.

Please
contact Communities for Kids North Platte via <a href="mailto:communities4kidsnp@gmail.com">email</a> to learn how one can support or donate to this important mission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608167339003.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release
Communities for Kids
North Platte and fiscal agent Families First Partnership is excited
to announce that Diane Livingston has accepted the position as the
North Platte Communities for Kids Community Coordinator for Early Childhood in the North Platte area. Diane is a native to the North
Platte area, brings years of experience related to early childhood
education programs and is passionate about fulfilling the Community for
Kids North Platte’s mission: all
children of the North Platte Community will have access and
experiences in high-quality childcare and education.


This
position was made available when Communities for Kids North Platte
was awarded a $40,000 grant through a Preschool Development Grant
from the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (Nebraska Children).
Through this federal DHHS Preschool Development Grant (PDG), there
are a&nbsp;series of early care and educational opportunities for
communities across Nebraska to receive, such as building local early
childhood infrastructure, developing community-wide plans to support
all types of child care systems, and focusing on increasing quality,
availability, and access to excellent early child care. In addition,
Communities for Kids Plus (C4K+) will help local communities build
local early childhood Communities for Kids who were awarded this
grant.
Please
contact Communities for Kids North Platte via <a href="mailto:communities4kidsnp@gmail.com">email</a> to learn how one can support or donate to this important mission.

Livingston named early childhood coordinator for Communities for Kids 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The economic development arm of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska has created a new gaming division to manage the three casinos it hopes to open starting next year, planners said Wednesday.

Ho-Chunk, Inc., said it has launched WarHorse Gaming, LLC, to develop the casinos at three state-licensed horse-racing tracks in Omaha, Lincoln and South Sioux City. The corporation has partnered with the Nebraska Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, a horse racing industry group.

The plans are taking shape after voters passed a constitutional amendment last month to repeal Nebraska's longtime ban on casino gambling. The measure was bankrolled by Ho-Chunk, Inc., and the horsemen's group.

WarHorse managers said they hope to offer expanded gaming in some form in the latter half of 2021, with full casino operations up and running in 2022.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The economic development arm of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska has created a new gaming division to manage the three casinos it hopes to open starting next year, planners said Wednesday.Ho-Chunk, Inc., said it has launched WarHorse Gaming, LLC, to develop the casinos at three state-licensed horse-racing tracks in Omaha, Lincoln and South Sioux City. The corporation has partnered with the Nebraska Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, a horse racing industry group.The plans are taking shape after voters passed a constitutional amendment last month to repeal Nebraska's longtime ban on casino gambling. The measure was bankrolled by Ho-Chunk, Inc., and the horsemen's group.WarHorse managers said they hope to offer expanded gaming in some form in the latter half of 2021, with full casino operations up and running in 2022.

Nebraska tribal corporation creates new casino division

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More than 100 Nebraska hospitals and health facilities are expected to receive a new coronavirus vaccine next week, but the state won't be getting as many overall doses as initially projected this month because of shipping delays, state officials said Wednesday.

Officials said the state will get 32,400 doses of the vaccine from Moderna, assuming that the company's drug wins federal approval on Thursday. Those doses will go to 112 Nebraska hospitals, health centers and health departments, including many in rural areas.

"We are ready to accept those shipments," said Angie Ling, incident commander for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

The first 15,600 doses from drug manufacturer Pfizer arrived in Nebraska this week.

Ling said those vaccines have gone to 13 hospitals, and 1,746 people - primarily front-line health workers - have received the first of two doses necessary to achieve full immunity. Those recipients will get their second shots in January because the drug requires a three- to four-week waiting period between doses to be effective.

Gov. Pete Ricketts said Nebraska officials are expecting about 82,000 doses from the two companies by the end of December. State officials had originally projected 104,000 doses, but another shipment expected from Pfizer next week was postponed. It wasn't immediately clear when those shipments would arrive.

"In any new distribution process, there are logistical hiccups," Ling said in a statement after the governor's news conference. "This is especially true with such a massive and delicate operation such as this - but we expect that those minor delays will be solved shortly by Pfizer."

Ricketts said he's confident that, even with the delay, Nebraska will still be able to offer vaccinations to the general public by April as expected. The state's distribution plan calls for the first doses to go to front-line medical workers, along with teachers, meatpacking workers, first responders and other people in critical industries who are more likely to encounter the virus.

Despite the new shipments, Ricketts urged residents to continue avoiding crowds, confined spaces and close contact with other people outside their household.

"We've still got work ahead of us with regard to slowing the spread of the virus," he said.

Even so, state officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-204b27b542c53030c04992ab5f17f364" target="_blank">have relaxed some restrictions</a>. Some cities have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-omaha-51cb57ca9d631117cf05fa07c8e0d966" target="_blank">eased their rules</a>&nbsp;as well. And on Tuesday, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services announced that it will once again allow inmate visits at five of its prisons starting Dec. 23. Director Scott Frakes said family members and friends will have to register for a visit in advance, wear masks and socially distance themselves.

The number of hospitalized coronavirus patients in Nebraska continued to decline as of Tuesday after a sharp increase in November that prompted Ricketts to tighten some social distancing rules.

The state's hospitals held 677 total patients as of Tuesday evening out of 4,043 total staffed beds, according to Nebraska's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>.

The state confirmed 1,517 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, and the numbers have trended downward since reaching a single-day high of 3,443 on Nov. 16. Nebraska reported 150,861 confirmed cases and 1,438 deaths since the pandemic began.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More than 100 Nebraska hospitals and health facilities are expected to receive a new coronavirus vaccine next week, but the state won't be getting as many overall doses as initially projected this month because of shipping delays, state officials said Wednesday.Officials said the state will get 32,400 doses of the vaccine from Moderna, assuming that the company's drug wins federal approval on Thursday. Those doses will go to 112 Nebraska hospitals, health centers and health departments, including many in rural areas."We are ready to accept those shipments," said Angie Ling, incident commander for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.The first 15,600 doses from drug manufacturer Pfizer arrived in Nebraska this week.Ling said those vaccines have gone to 13 hospitals, and 1,746 people - primarily front-line health workers - have received the first of two doses necessary to achieve full immunity. Those recipients will get their second shots in January because the drug requires a three- to four-week waiting period between doses to be effective.Gov. Pete Ricketts said Nebraska officials are expecting about 82,000 doses from the two companies by the end of December. State officials had originally projected 104,000 doses, but another shipment expected from Pfizer next week was postponed. It wasn't immediately clear when those shipments would arrive."In any new distribution process, there are logistical hiccups," Ling said in a statement after the governor's news conference. "This is especially true with such a massive and delicate operation such as this - but we expect that those minor delays will be solved shortly by Pfizer."Ricketts said he's confident that, even with the delay, Nebraska will still be able to offer vaccinations to the general public by April as expected. The state's distribution plan calls for the first doses to go to front-line medical workers, along with teachers, meatpacking workers, first responders and other people in critical industries who are more likely to encounter the virus.Despite the new shipments, Ricketts urged residents to continue avoiding crowds, confined spaces and close contact with other people outside their household."We've still got work ahead of us with regard to slowing the spread of the virus," he said.Even so, state officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-204b27b542c53030c04992ab5f17f364" target="_blank">have relaxed some restrictions</a>. Some cities have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-omaha-51cb57ca9d631117cf05fa07c8e0d966" target="_blank">eased their rules</a>&nbsp;as well. And on Tuesday, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services announced that it will once again allow inmate visits at five of its prisons starting Dec. 23. Director Scott Frakes said family members and friends will have to register for a visit in advance, wear masks and socially distance themselves.The number of hospitalized coronavirus patients in Nebraska continued to decline as of Tuesday after a sharp increase in November that prompted Ricketts to tighten some social distancing rules.The state's hospitals held 677 total patients as of Tuesday evening out of 4,043 total staffed beds, according to Nebraska's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>.The state confirmed 1,517 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, and the numbers have trended downward since reaching a single-day high of 3,443 on Nov. 16. Nebraska reported 150,861 confirmed cases and 1,438 deaths since the pandemic began.

Vaccines expected at 112 Nebraska facilities next week

Frontline healthcare workers have been under the gun in the battle against COVID-19 since March. Now, frontline workers in North Platte will be protected from the virus.

Nurses, physicians and other workers who work closely with COVID-19 patients at Great Plains Health (GPH) in North Platte were administered the first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

"Fortunate" was the word used by Emergency Room Charge Nurse Mel Pendelton when asked how it felt to be one of the first to receive the vaccine.

GPH received 975 doses of the vaccine on Tuesday. Officials say 490 of those doses will go to frontline workers at the hospital while the remaining doses will be distributed by West Central District Health Department to workers in the emergency medical services field as well as those who work in local care homes and assisted living facilities.

While the Moderna vaccine will likely be approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration on Thursday, vaccinations will likely not be available to the general public until some time in mid-2021.

Despite the assurance of scientists and healthcare professionals of the effectiveness and safety of the vaccines, recent polls show that many Americans will not get the vaccine even when it's available.

"We feel that this [getting the vaccine] is important enough that we've been vaccinated and we've looked forward to this," said Dr. Jim Smith, Director of the Emergency Department, who was among those vaccinated on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Dr. Smith asked those who are thinking they don't want to get vaccinated to talk to someone who has been sick enough with COVID to come to the emergency room.

"They'll tell you that this is the worst thing that they have gone through," remarked Dr. Smith.

Those receiving the vaccine today will require another dose in 21 days to assure maximum immunity. 

GPH Pharmacy Director Jason North says the vaccines for the second dose have already been held back to assure that they are available for those who have already received the first dose. North says those doses will be shipped sometime in the next couple of weeks.

Additionally, North said the immune responses of fever, body aches and other mild side-effects are more common with the second dose. For that reason, the administration of the second dose to GPH staff and physicians will be staggered to prevent staff shortages.&nbsp;

Recipients of the vaccine will be monitored for potential side-effects, which will be reported using an app.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608141844827.jpeg" alt="Great Plains Health Pharmacy Director Jason North arrives with the first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine." />
 <figcaption>Great Plains Health Pharmacy Director Jason North arrives with the first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostFrontline healthcare workers have been under the gun in the battle against COVID-19 since March. Now, frontline workers in North Platte will be protected from the virus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608141896764.jpeg" alt="Emergency Room Charge Nurse Mel Pendelton received the first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine." />
 <figcaption>Emergency Room Charge Nurse Mel Pendelton received the first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.</figcaption>
 </figure>Nurses, physicians and other workers who work closely with COVID-19 patients at Great Plains Health (GPH) in North Platte were administered the first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine."Fortunate" was the word used by Emergency Room Charge Nurse Mel Pendelton when asked how it felt to be one of the first to receive the vaccine.GPH received 975 doses of the vaccine on Tuesday. Officials say 490 of those doses will go to frontline workers at the hospital while the remaining doses will be distributed by West Central District Health Department to workers in the emergency medical services field as well as those who work in local care homes and assisted living facilities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608141972003.jpeg" alt="Respiratory Therapist Elisha Pueppka receives the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine." />
 <figcaption>Respiratory Therapist Elisha Pueppka receives the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.</figcaption>
 </figure>While the Moderna vaccine will likely be approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration on Thursday, vaccinations will likely not be available to the general public until some time in mid-2021.Despite the assurance of scientists and healthcare professionals of the effectiveness and safety of the vaccines, recent polls show that many Americans will not get the vaccine even when it's available."We feel that this [getting the vaccine] is important enough that we've been vaccinated and we've looked forward to this," said Dr. Jim Smith, Director of the Emergency Department, who was among those vaccinated on Wednesday.&nbsp;Dr. Smith asked those who are thinking they don't want to get vaccinated to talk to someone who has been sick enough with COVID to come to the emergency room."They'll tell you that this is the worst thing that they have gone through," remarked Dr. Smith.Those receiving the vaccine today will require another dose in 21 days to assure maximum immunity. GPH Pharmacy Director Jason North says the vaccines for the second dose have already been held back to assure that they are available for those who have already received the first dose. North says those doses will be shipped sometime in the next couple of weeks.Additionally, North said the immune responses of fever, body aches and other mild side-effects are more common with the second dose. For that reason, the administration of the second dose to GPH staff and physicians will be staggered to prevent staff shortages.&nbsp;Recipients of the vaccine will be monitored for potential side-effects, which will be reported using an app.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2IHCDTXh6Cw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lZk-tmVvRnU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JL-hIVTfr68" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TccsiHJtIRA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Frontline workers at Great Plains Health receive 1st doses of COVID vaccine

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore announced that December 18-20, 2020 will be a Weekend of Remembrance and Honor for Nebraskans lost to the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov. Ricketts will also issue an official proclamation proclaiming Sunday, December 20, 2020, as a Statewide Day of Prayer.&nbsp;

A virtual memorial wall has been created at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimpact.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C4e32ae756a6e46cecf1a08d8a155f7f5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436737896829344%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gdSVbCS8%2B6XpiEPb5wpp9NeeFe%2BkuCAlUbxxhmMrwWE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.neimpact.org</a>&nbsp;to pay homage to loved ones lost due to the pandemic. &nbsp;The public is invited to submit photos, stories, poems, and other tributes memorializing loved ones lost.

As part of the weekend’s activities, the Governor and First Lady are encouraging Nebraskans to engage in acts of honor throughout the weekend, which may include volunteering or making charitable donations to organizations working to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nevolunteers.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C4e32ae756a6e46cecf1a08d8a155f7f5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436737896839285%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=9Uofaem9qRcuPNZL4xsgC7zZ5ePFj1AkZwaaegZWoik%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nevolunteers.org</a>&nbsp;to connect with volunteer opportunities or to donate to a variety of Nebraska non-profits.

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore announced that December 18-20, 2020 will be a Weekend of Remembrance and Honor for Nebraskans lost to the coronavirus pandemic.Gov. Ricketts will also issue an official proclamation proclaiming Sunday, December 20, 2020, as a Statewide Day of Prayer.&nbsp;A virtual memorial wall has been created at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimpact.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C4e32ae756a6e46cecf1a08d8a155f7f5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436737896829344%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gdSVbCS8%2B6XpiEPb5wpp9NeeFe%2BkuCAlUbxxhmMrwWE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.neimpact.org</a>&nbsp;to pay homage to loved ones lost due to the pandemic. &nbsp;The public is invited to submit photos, stories, poems, and other tributes memorializing loved ones lost.As part of the weekend’s activities, the Governor and First Lady are encouraging Nebraskans to engage in acts of honor throughout the weekend, which may include volunteering or making charitable donations to organizations working to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nevolunteers.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C4e32ae756a6e46cecf1a08d8a155f7f5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436737896839285%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=9Uofaem9qRcuPNZL4xsgC7zZ5ePFj1AkZwaaegZWoik%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nevolunteers.org</a>&nbsp;to connect with volunteer opportunities or to donate to a variety of Nebraska non-profits.

Gov. Ricketts, First Lady Shore announce 'Weekend of Remembrance and Honor' for COVID victims

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska linebacker Collin Miller has announced his retirement from football after a spinal injury ended his season last month.

Miller said Tuesday a neurologist who works with the Cornhuskers recommended he give up the game as a precaution.

The senior from Fishers, Indiana, appeared in 40 games, starting his final 16. He made 27 tackles in four games this season.

Miller suffered a spinal concussion, which is characterized by a temporary sensory impairment and motor weakness, in the Nov. 21 game against Illinois. The condition typically resolves in one to three days with no lasting effects, according to the Neural Regeneration Research journal.

He was hurt while making a tackle, was taken off the field on a stretcher and hospitalized overnight. He attended practice two days later to watch and visit with teammates.

"I talked to one neurologist doctor who is with the staff and he kind of gave me the options and put everything out on the line that he thinks it's probably not the best situation to come back and play football," Miller said. "We have great staff on this team that wants the best for me and my family and future."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608115130948.png" alt="Collin Miller" />
 <figcaption>Collin Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska linebacker Collin Miller has announced his retirement from football after a spinal injury ended his season last month.Miller said Tuesday a neurologist who works with the Cornhuskers recommended he give up the game as a precaution.The senior from Fishers, Indiana, appeared in 40 games, starting his final 16. He made 27 tackles in four games this season.Miller suffered a spinal concussion, which is characterized by a temporary sensory impairment and motor weakness, in the Nov. 21 game against Illinois. The condition typically resolves in one to three days with no lasting effects, according to the Neural Regeneration Research journal.He was hurt while making a tackle, was taken off the field on a stretcher and hospitalized overnight. He attended practice two days later to watch and visit with teammates."I talked to one neurologist doctor who is with the staff and he kind of gave me the options and put everything out on the line that he thinks it's probably not the best situation to come back and play football," Miller said. "We have great staff on this team that wants the best for me and my family and future."

Huskers LB Collin Miller retires from football after injury

This has been a hard year. &nbsp;We’ve been battling the coronavirus in our state for over nine months.&nbsp; I know many Nebraskans are weary.&nbsp; Folks are tired of the virus’ many negative impacts.&nbsp; They’re burned out from Zoom meetings.&nbsp; They’re tired of being unable to hold traditional gatherings with friends and family.&nbsp; And they’re tired of activities and celebrations being postponed.

Despite this weariness, there is hope in this season of Advent and the heart of the Christmas Story.&nbsp; In less than two weeks, we get to celebrate the Good News that came on the night Jesus was born. &nbsp;Nebraskans are also celebrating Hanukkah through December 18th, kindling a candle each night during the Festival of Lights to display hope in the Creator who sustains life. &nbsp;This holiday season, I pray you’ll find renewed hope as you reflect on the reason we celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah.

Developments in our battle with the coronavirus give additional reason for hope.&nbsp; In recent weeks, we’ve seen a sustained, downward trend in coronavirus-related hospitalizations in Nebraska.&nbsp; We’ve also received welcome news that the first coronavirus vaccine, from Pfizer, is now authorized for emergency use. &nbsp;While this is encouraging, we need everyone to stay committed to slowing the spread of the virus.&nbsp; It’s vital that we protect our hospitals until vaccines become widely available.&nbsp; It will still be several months until this happens. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the pandemic, protecting Nebraska’s hospitals has been the ‘north star’ guiding our strategic response to the coronavirus.&nbsp; On November 13th, I announced Nebraska’s phased plan to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; It’s based on the percentage of staffed hospital beds in Nebraska occupied by coronavirus patients.&nbsp; Each color-coded phase of the plan corresponds to a different set of restrictions.&nbsp;

When I first announced the plan, Nebraska was in the “orange” phase with 20-25% of staffed hospital beds taken up by coronavirus patients.&nbsp; After nearly hitting the 25% threshold during Thanksgiving week, we’ve seen coronavirus hospitalizations decline from a high of 987 on November 20th&nbsp;to 693 as of December 15th.&nbsp; Last Friday, we moved below the 20% threshold (7-day rolling average).&nbsp; As a result, we’re now in the “yellow” phase and under updated Directed Health Measures (DHMs) in keeping with our pandemic plan. &nbsp;Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and click on “Directed Health Measures” for details.

Moving from the “orange” to “yellow” phase doesn’t mean we can relax our guard.&nbsp; The virus is still present in our communities, and we all need to continue using the tools we have to slow its spread.&nbsp; I especially urge Nebraskans to be mindful of at-risk loved ones when making plans to celebrate the holidays. &nbsp;Let’s all take personal responsibility to stay healthy and keep Nebraska headed in the right direction.

As long as coronavirus hospitalizations remain between 15-20% of staffed hospital beds, we’ll stay in the “yellow” phase.&nbsp; Should we fall below this range or rise above it—on a 7-day rolling average—we’ll adjust our DHMs accordingly.&nbsp; A chart comparing the color-coded phases of the State’s pandemic response plan is available on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) website by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/DHM-Measure-Table-ENGLISH.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Nobody wants to be in quarantine or isolation over the holidays—or to spend Christmas and New Year’s Day sick in the hospital.&nbsp; Now is a good time to slow down.&nbsp; If you’re shopping, go alone.&nbsp; Don’t take the entire family.&nbsp; Don’t try to muscle through a cold this year.&nbsp; Please stay home when you are sick.&nbsp; Continue to use the tools we’ve been emphasizing to slow the spread.&nbsp; Keep six-feet of distance from others, wear a mask when you go to the store, wash your hands often, and work from home when you can. &nbsp;

I also want to remind everyone to avoid the “Three Cs”.&nbsp; They are crowded places, close contacts, and confined spaces.&nbsp; The virus spreads from one person to another, and avoiding the “Three Cs” reduces the likelihood of infection.

Test Nebraska is operating during the holiday season.&nbsp; Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2Fen&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cffbd23fc35b84c8555a808d8a122695d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436516453529121%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=B7dGpNeJw4vCM6A8XideyHbCYGuV4H6UXX%2BVTARq6fE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to take a brief health assessment and schedule a time to get tested.&nbsp; If you plan to visit family, consider getting a test. &nbsp;Viral spread can occur from asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic people.&nbsp; Taking a test can detect the virus, even if you’re not experiencing symptoms.&nbsp; This can help you avoid inadvertently passing the virus to loved ones.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the CDC approved Pfizer’s vaccine for emergency use.&nbsp; This week, hospitals in Nebraska are receiving their first shipments of the vaccine and will begin immunizing healthcare personnel who are in direct contact with patients.&nbsp; Following federal guidelines, we’re also prioritizing staff and residents of nursing homes and assisted-living facilities for vaccination.&nbsp; Nebraskans living and working in long-term care facilities will receive vaccinations through their facilities’ partnership with area pharmacies.&nbsp; This week, federal regulators are assessing clinical trial data on Moderna’s vaccine.&nbsp; It may be approved by the FDA for emergency use as early as Friday, December 18th.&nbsp;

As the first vaccines arrive to our state, I encourage Nebraskans to learn more about coronavirus immunization.&nbsp; The CDC has helpful information on its website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fvaccines%2Findex.html&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cffbd23fc35b84c8555a808d8a122695d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436516453539078%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=dzWG%2BsND2MQATIh5iCuqodRT1X5FE34bmrEEUPC1Lus%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines</a>. &nbsp;The State of Nebraska’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf</a>. &nbsp;

If you have questions about 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; Let’s continue working together to slow the spread of the virus so that Nebraskans can enjoy a healthy and happy holiday season.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592587328354.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsThis has been a hard year. &nbsp;We’ve been battling the coronavirus in our state for over nine months.&nbsp; I know many Nebraskans are weary.&nbsp; Folks are tired of the virus’ many negative impacts.&nbsp; They’re burned out from Zoom meetings.&nbsp; They’re tired of being unable to hold traditional gatherings with friends and family.&nbsp; And they’re tired of activities and celebrations being postponed.Despite this weariness, there is hope in this season of Advent and the heart of the Christmas Story.&nbsp; In less than two weeks, we get to celebrate the Good News that came on the night Jesus was born. &nbsp;Nebraskans are also celebrating Hanukkah through December 18th, kindling a candle each night during the Festival of Lights to display hope in the Creator who sustains life. &nbsp;This holiday season, I pray you’ll find renewed hope as you reflect on the reason we celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah.Developments in our battle with the coronavirus give additional reason for hope.&nbsp; In recent weeks, we’ve seen a sustained, downward trend in coronavirus-related hospitalizations in Nebraska.&nbsp; We’ve also received welcome news that the first coronavirus vaccine, from Pfizer, is now authorized for emergency use. &nbsp;While this is encouraging, we need everyone to stay committed to slowing the spread of the virus.&nbsp; It’s vital that we protect our hospitals until vaccines become widely available.&nbsp; It will still be several months until this happens. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Since the beginning of the pandemic, protecting Nebraska’s hospitals has been the ‘north star’ guiding our strategic response to the coronavirus.&nbsp; On November 13th, I announced Nebraska’s phased plan to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; It’s based on the percentage of staffed hospital beds in Nebraska occupied by coronavirus patients.&nbsp; Each color-coded phase of the plan corresponds to a different set of restrictions.&nbsp;When I first announced the plan, Nebraska was in the “orange” phase with 20-25% of staffed hospital beds taken up by coronavirus patients.&nbsp; After nearly hitting the 25% threshold during Thanksgiving week, we’ve seen coronavirus hospitalizations decline from a high of 987 on November 20th&nbsp;to 693 as of December 15th.&nbsp; Last Friday, we moved below the 20% threshold (7-day rolling average).&nbsp; As a result, we’re now in the “yellow” phase and under updated Directed Health Measures (DHMs) in keeping with our pandemic plan. &nbsp;Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and click on “Directed Health Measures” for details.Moving from the “orange” to “yellow” phase doesn’t mean we can relax our guard.&nbsp; The virus is still present in our communities, and we all need to continue using the tools we have to slow its spread.&nbsp; I especially urge Nebraskans to be mindful of at-risk loved ones when making plans to celebrate the holidays. &nbsp;Let’s all take personal responsibility to stay healthy and keep Nebraska headed in the right direction.As long as coronavirus hospitalizations remain between 15-20% of staffed hospital beds, we’ll stay in the “yellow” phase.&nbsp; Should we fall below this range or rise above it—on a 7-day rolling average—we’ll adjust our DHMs accordingly.&nbsp; A chart comparing the color-coded phases of the State’s pandemic response plan is available on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) website by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/DHM-Measure-Table-ENGLISH.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Nobody wants to be in quarantine or isolation over the holidays—or to spend Christmas and New Year’s Day sick in the hospital.&nbsp; Now is a good time to slow down.&nbsp; If you’re shopping, go alone.&nbsp; Don’t take the entire family.&nbsp; Don’t try to muscle through a cold this year.&nbsp; Please stay home when you are sick.&nbsp; Continue to use the tools we’ve been emphasizing to slow the spread.&nbsp; Keep six-feet of distance from others, wear a mask when you go to the store, wash your hands often, and work from home when you can. &nbsp;I also want to remind everyone to avoid the “Three Cs”.&nbsp; They are crowded places, close contacts, and confined spaces.&nbsp; The virus spreads from one person to another, and avoiding the “Three Cs” reduces the likelihood of infection.Test Nebraska is operating during the holiday season.&nbsp; Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2Fen&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cffbd23fc35b84c8555a808d8a122695d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436516453529121%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=B7dGpNeJw4vCM6A8XideyHbCYGuV4H6UXX%2BVTARq6fE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to take a brief health assessment and schedule a time to get tested.&nbsp; If you plan to visit family, consider getting a test. &nbsp;Viral spread can occur from asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic people.&nbsp; Taking a test can detect the virus, even if you’re not experiencing symptoms.&nbsp; This can help you avoid inadvertently passing the virus to loved ones.&nbsp;On Sunday, the CDC approved Pfizer’s vaccine for emergency use.&nbsp; This week, hospitals in Nebraska are receiving their first shipments of the vaccine and will begin immunizing healthcare personnel who are in direct contact with patients.&nbsp; Following federal guidelines, we’re also prioritizing staff and residents of nursing homes and assisted-living facilities for vaccination.&nbsp; Nebraskans living and working in long-term care facilities will receive vaccinations through their facilities’ partnership with area pharmacies.&nbsp; This week, federal regulators are assessing clinical trial data on Moderna’s vaccine.&nbsp; It may be approved by the FDA for emergency use as early as Friday, December 18th.&nbsp;As the first vaccines arrive to our state, I encourage Nebraskans to learn more about coronavirus immunization.&nbsp; The CDC has helpful information on its website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fvaccines%2Findex.html&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cffbd23fc35b84c8555a808d8a122695d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637436516453539078%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=dzWG%2BsND2MQATIh5iCuqodRT1X5FE34bmrEEUPC1Lus%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines</a>. &nbsp;The State of Nebraska’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan is available online at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions about 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; Let’s continue working together to slow the spread of the virus so that Nebraskans can enjoy a healthy and happy holiday season.&nbsp;

COLUMN Gov. Ricketts: Reasons to hope

From NDOT<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608071937044.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NDOT: 13 people died on Nebraska roadways in November

After a punishing fall that left hospitals struggling, some Midwestern states are seeing a decline in new coronavirus cases. But the signs of improvement are offset by the infection's accelerating spread on both coasts.

States including Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Nebraska have seen decreases in the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 over the past couple of weeks. All, however, are still experiencing an alarming number of deaths and hospitalizations because of the earlier surge of cases.

With winter weather driving people indoors, where the virus spreads more easily, there's no guarantee the improving dynamic can be maintained, doctors and public health officials say.

"We have a vaccine rolling out, but that doesn't change the overall picture," Dr. James Lawler with the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Global Center for Health Security told the Omaha World-Herald. "Things could still turn south pretty easily."

But he and others are encouraged by the figures. In Iowa, for example, the number of new virus cases reported daily has declined over the past two weeks from nearly 1,800 to about 1,250. In Nebraska, it has gone from about 1,800 a day to a little under 1,300.

"I am fingers crossed right now," said Dr. Stacey Marlow, an emergency room physician at UnityPoint Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. "The COVID patients that I am seeing are very, very sick. But there are ... less of them."

Deaths from the virus in Iowa have continued to rise sharply, to an average of 79 a day, up from 28 two weeks ago.

The hope, of course, is that the drop in infections will translate into a decline in deaths, but that could take a few weeks. Many of those now dying of COVID-19 may have been infected weeks ago.

Nationwide, the death toll has topped 300,000, with more than 16 million confirmed infections. On average, the U.S. is seeing about 2,400 deaths and over 215,000 new cases per day. An influential model from the University of Washington says deaths could total 502,000 by April 1, even with a vaccine.

Lawler said more Nebraska residents appear to be following warnings to limit dining out and wear masks in public. It helps that a number of Nebraska cities recently passed mask mandates, he said.

But he said it's important for Nebraskans to remain vigilant about maintaining social distancing as they wait for vaccines to become widely available in the spring.

In a call with governors this week, White House coronavirus task force member Dr. Deborah Birx said the progress in Midwestern states is being offset by a "deteriorating situation" on both coasts.

Nationwide, the number of people in the hospital with the virus has hit an all-time high of more than 110,000, according to the COVID Tracking Project.

In California, for example, the supply of beds in intensive care units is dwindling as new cases average more than 30,000 a day.

"We have reached case counts that exceed all previous records," said Van Do-Reynoso, Santa Barbara County public health director. "It is imperative that each individual take action now and stay home. We are reaching a point where we can see on the horizon our health care system being overrun."

In New York City, officials halted indoor dining at restaurants Monday as the number of infections continued to climb. State and city officials have warned that a broader shutdown might be necessary if things keep getting worse.

"We cannot let this virus keep growing, especially at a moment where we are finally getting the vaccine and can turn the corner," Mayor Bill de Blasio said.

About 370 coronavirus patients were in intensive care in the city this week, triple the number of a month ago, but a fraction of the more than 3,100 patients who filled ICUs in April.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608071469793.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By ADAM GELLER-Associated Press After a punishing fall that left hospitals struggling, some Midwestern states are seeing a decline in new coronavirus cases. But the signs of improvement are offset by the infection's accelerating spread on both coasts.States including Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Nebraska have seen decreases in the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 over the past couple of weeks. All, however, are still experiencing an alarming number of deaths and hospitalizations because of the earlier surge of cases.With winter weather driving people indoors, where the virus spreads more easily, there's no guarantee the improving dynamic can be maintained, doctors and public health officials say."We have a vaccine rolling out, but that doesn't change the overall picture," Dr. James Lawler with the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Global Center for Health Security told the Omaha World-Herald. "Things could still turn south pretty easily."But he and others are encouraged by the figures. In Iowa, for example, the number of new virus cases reported daily has declined over the past two weeks from nearly 1,800 to about 1,250. In Nebraska, it has gone from about 1,800 a day to a little under 1,300."I am fingers crossed right now," said Dr. Stacey Marlow, an emergency room physician at UnityPoint Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. "The COVID patients that I am seeing are very, very sick. But there are ... less of them."Deaths from the virus in Iowa have continued to rise sharply, to an average of 79 a day, up from 28 two weeks ago.The hope, of course, is that the drop in infections will translate into a decline in deaths, but that could take a few weeks. Many of those now dying of COVID-19 may have been infected weeks ago.Nationwide, the death toll has topped 300,000, with more than 16 million confirmed infections. On average, the U.S. is seeing about 2,400 deaths and over 215,000 new cases per day. An influential model from the University of Washington says deaths could total 502,000 by April 1, even with a vaccine.Lawler said more Nebraska residents appear to be following warnings to limit dining out and wear masks in public. It helps that a number of Nebraska cities recently passed mask mandates, he said.But he said it's important for Nebraskans to remain vigilant about maintaining social distancing as they wait for vaccines to become widely available in the spring.In a call with governors this week, White House coronavirus task force member Dr. Deborah Birx said the progress in Midwestern states is being offset by a "deteriorating situation" on both coasts.Nationwide, the number of people in the hospital with the virus has hit an all-time high of more than 110,000, according to the COVID Tracking Project.In California, for example, the supply of beds in intensive care units is dwindling as new cases average more than 30,000 a day."We have reached case counts that exceed all previous records," said Van Do-Reynoso, Santa Barbara County public health director. "It is imperative that each individual take action now and stay home. We are reaching a point where we can see on the horizon our health care system being overrun."In New York City, officials halted indoor dining at restaurants Monday as the number of infections continued to climb. State and city officials have warned that a broader shutdown might be necessary if things keep getting worse."We cannot let this virus keep growing, especially at a moment where we are finally getting the vaccine and can turn the corner," Mayor Bill de Blasio said.About 370 coronavirus patients were in intensive care in the city this week, triple the number of a month ago, but a fraction of the more than 3,100 patients who filled ICUs in April.In New Jersey, a rise in new cases from about 4,000 a day at the end of November to an average of 4,900 has raised concerns among officials and health providers. But the dynamic is very different from the crisis of last spring."People do still continue to die from the disease but certainly not in the kinds of numbers that we were seeing back then," said Dr. John Bonamo, chief medical and quality officer at RWJ Barnabas Health, a large hospital operator in the state.

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