OMAHA-U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly today announced that $3,911,611 in Department of Justice grants has been awarded to fight and prevent violent crime in the District of Nebraska. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of more than $458 million in funding to support state, local and tribal law enforcement efforts to combat violent crime in jurisdictions across the United States.

The funding announced today continues the Trump Administration’s commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety. In the two years before President Trump took office, America had experienced a precipitous rise in crime, particularly in serious violent crime. The President elevated community safety to the top of his domestic agenda and crime rates have fallen steadily since. Recent data from the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics for 2019 show a drop in crime and serious victimization for the third year in a row. However, a number of cities are experiencing conspicuous countertrends. Today’s grants will bolster crime-fighting efforts in those communities and in jurisdictions throughout the United States.

“Violence has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “Working with officials across the Trump Administration and with thousands of state, local and tribal crime-fighters across the country, the Department of Justice is leading the response to this urgent challenge. OJP is pleased to make these resources available to support innovative, tested and diverse solutions to violent crime.”

“Nebraska is receiving nearly $4 million in grant funding to address various aspects of the violent crime problem,” said Joe Kelly. “This funding will complement and enhance the many effective programs and initiatives currently in place.”

Of the more than $458 million awarded nationwide, OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance made 1,094 grants totaling more than $369 million to support a broad range of initiatives, including&nbsp;efforts in enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, detention and rehabilitation.

OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention awarded more than $10 million across 24 jurisdictions to intervene in and suppress youth gang&nbsp;activity as well as $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to continue operating the National Gang Center. OJP’s National Institute of Justice awarded $7.8 million to fund research and evaluation on the prevention and reduction of violent crime. OJP’s Bureau of Justice Statistics provided more than $69 million to strengthen the quality and accessibility of records within the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

The following organizations received funding:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Board of Parole &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $974,000

BJA Justice Reinvestment Initiative JRI provides funding for innovative and research-based responses that address a range of problems within the criminal justice system. The Justice Reinvestment approach recognizes that every justice agency has a role to play in preventing crime, apprehending and prosecuting perpetrators, ensuring efficient and effective court and pretrial decision-making, facilitating appropriate sentencing and treatment and protecting community security.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $732,037

National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act Record Improvement Program (NARIP).&nbsp; NARIP provides financial and technical assistance to states and tribes to improve the completeness, automation and transmittal of records to state and federal systems used by the NICS.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $2,205,574

National Criminal History Improvement Program.&nbsp; NCHIP enhances the quality, completeness, and accessibility of criminal history record information to state, territory and federal systems used by the NICS and ensures the nationwide

implementation of criminal justice and noncriminal justice background check systems.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/fightviolentcrimefactsheet.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. More information about OJP and its components can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ojp.gov/" target="_blank">www.ojp.gov</a>.

OMAHA-U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly today announced that $3,911,611 in Department of Justice grants has been awarded to fight and prevent violent crime in the District of Nebraska. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of more than $458 million in funding to support state, local and tribal law enforcement efforts to combat violent crime in jurisdictions across the United States.The funding announced today continues the Trump Administration’s commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety. In the two years before President Trump took office, America had experienced a precipitous rise in crime, particularly in serious violent crime. The President elevated community safety to the top of his domestic agenda and crime rates have fallen steadily since. Recent data from the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics for 2019 show a drop in crime and serious victimization for the third year in a row. However, a number of cities are experiencing conspicuous countertrends. Today’s grants will bolster crime-fighting efforts in those communities and in jurisdictions throughout the United States.“Violence has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “Working with officials across the Trump Administration and with thousands of state, local and tribal crime-fighters across the country, the Department of Justice is leading the response to this urgent challenge. OJP is pleased to make these resources available to support innovative, tested and diverse solutions to violent crime.”“Nebraska is receiving nearly $4 million in grant funding to address various aspects of the violent crime problem,” said Joe Kelly. “This funding will complement and enhance the many effective programs and initiatives currently in place.”Of the more than $458 million awarded nationwide, OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance made 1,094 grants totaling more than $369 million to support a broad range of initiatives, including&nbsp;efforts in enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, detention and rehabilitation.OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention awarded more than $10 million across 24 jurisdictions to intervene in and suppress youth gang&nbsp;activity as well as $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to continue operating the National Gang Center. OJP’s National Institute of Justice awarded $7.8 million to fund research and evaluation on the prevention and reduction of violent crime. OJP’s Bureau of Justice Statistics provided more than $69 million to strengthen the quality and accessibility of records within the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.The following organizations received funding:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Board of Parole &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $974,000BJA Justice Reinvestment Initiative JRI provides funding for innovative and research-based responses that address a range of problems within the criminal justice system. The Justice Reinvestment approach recognizes that every justice agency has a role to play in preventing crime, apprehending and prosecuting perpetrators, ensuring efficient and effective court and pretrial decision-making, facilitating appropriate sentencing and treatment and protecting community security.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $732,037National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act Record Improvement Program (NARIP).&nbsp; NARIP provides financial and technical assistance to states and tribes to improve the completeness, automation and transmittal of records to state and federal systems used by the NICS.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $2,205,574National Criminal History Improvement Program.&nbsp; NCHIP enhances the quality, completeness, and accessibility of criminal history record information to state, territory and federal systems used by the NICS and ensures the nationwideimplementation of criminal justice and noncriminal justice background check systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/fightviolentcrimefactsheet.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. More information about OJP and its components can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ojp.gov/" target="_blank">www.ojp.gov</a>.

More than $4 million awarded to Nebraska agencies to combat violent crime

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The surge in COVID-19 cases in Nebraska has led to record-high hospitalizations that are straining the state's health care system, officials said Monday.

The number of people hospitalized in the state with the coronavirus set another record on Sunday, with 613, which was one more than the previous day. Hospitalizations from COVID-19 have surged over the last month, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>.

"We have seen a doubling of COVID positive patients in the last several weeks. No doubt if this trend continues - not just at our hospitals - but every hospital in the state could be at capacity in a very short period of time," Dr. Cary Ward, chief medical officer for CHI Health's network of 14 hospitals across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, said during a video call with reporters.

Nebraska's largest hospitals have started limiting elective surgeries as they work to cope with the increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, which is expected to continue because cases of the virus are still rising, said Dr. Bill Lydiatt, the chief medical officer for Methodist Health System's two hospitals in Omaha. The number of confirmed cases increased by 934 on Sunday in Nebraska, which has the seventh-highest rate of new cases in the nation.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska increased over the past two weeks from about 778 new cases per day on Oct. 18 to roughly 1,074 new cases per day on Sunday.

Ensuring that hospitals have enough nurses and doctors to care for the COVID patients is key. Nebraska hospitals are working to bring in nurses from other parts of the country to help.

"We can manage a significant surge in COVID-19 patients. However we cannot produce unlimited hospital capacity," Lydiatt said.

Also Monday, state officials said Nebraska's nursing homes and other long-term care facilities will get a temporary financial boost to help cover the cost of dealing with the pandemic.

The state will increase its Medicaid reimbursement for care facilities by an extra $20 per day for each eligible resident, using a combination of $25 million in federal money and $15 million from the state. The cost of caring for long-term care residents varies widely throughout Nebraska, but the average is around $200, so the extra money would amount to about a 10% increase, health officials said.

Nebraska's long-term care facilities have been hit especially hard by the pandemic, with residents accounting for about 36% of the state's overall virus deaths. The virus has infected 1,774 long-term care residents and 1,832 staff members since the pandemic began, and 238 residents have died, according to state health officials.

"This financial aid could not have come at a better time," said Heath Boddy, president and CEO of the Nebraska Health Care Association.

Boddy said care facilities will likely use the money to cover earlier pandemic-related expenses, and possibly offer retention and recruitment bonuses to help with staffing shortages. The assistance will apply retroactively to costs incurred from May 1 and will continue until the end of this year.

Nebraska has had 71,666 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 654 deaths from the disease since the pandemic began.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The surge in COVID-19 cases in Nebraska has led to record-high hospitalizations that are straining the state's health care system, officials said Monday.The number of people hospitalized in the state with the coronavirus set another record on Sunday, with 613, which was one more than the previous day. Hospitalizations from COVID-19 have surged over the last month, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>."We have seen a doubling of COVID positive patients in the last several weeks. No doubt if this trend continues - not just at our hospitals - but every hospital in the state could be at capacity in a very short period of time," Dr. Cary Ward, chief medical officer for CHI Health's network of 14 hospitals across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, said during a video call with reporters.Nebraska's largest hospitals have started limiting elective surgeries as they work to cope with the increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, which is expected to continue because cases of the virus are still rising, said Dr. Bill Lydiatt, the chief medical officer for Methodist Health System's two hospitals in Omaha. The number of confirmed cases increased by 934 on Sunday in Nebraska, which has the seventh-highest rate of new cases in the nation.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska increased over the past two weeks from about 778 new cases per day on Oct. 18 to roughly 1,074 new cases per day on Sunday.Ensuring that hospitals have enough nurses and doctors to care for the COVID patients is key. Nebraska hospitals are working to bring in nurses from other parts of the country to help."We can manage a significant surge in COVID-19 patients. However we cannot produce unlimited hospital capacity," Lydiatt said.Also Monday, state officials said Nebraska's nursing homes and other long-term care facilities will get a temporary financial boost to help cover the cost of dealing with the pandemic.The state will increase its Medicaid reimbursement for care facilities by an extra $20 per day for each eligible resident, using a combination of $25 million in federal money and $15 million from the state. The cost of caring for long-term care residents varies widely throughout Nebraska, but the average is around $200, so the extra money would amount to about a 10% increase, health officials said.Nebraska's long-term care facilities have been hit especially hard by the pandemic, with residents accounting for about 36% of the state's overall virus deaths. The virus has infected 1,774 long-term care residents and 1,832 staff members since the pandemic began, and 238 residents have died, according to state health officials."This financial aid could not have come at a better time," said Heath Boddy, president and CEO of the Nebraska Health Care Association.Boddy said care facilities will likely use the money to cover earlier pandemic-related expenses, and possibly offer retention and recruitment bonuses to help with staffing shortages. The assistance will apply retroactively to costs incurred from May 1 and will continue until the end of this year.Nebraska has had 71,666 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 654 deaths from the disease since the pandemic began.

Surge in coronavirus cases straining Nebraska hospitals

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested over the weekend, accused of sexually assaulting a vulnerable adult.

According to North Platte police, on October 29, officers responded to a residence in the 900 block of west Philip in reference to a prior sexual assault that occurred in August of 2020. 

Investigator John Deal says officers met with a 51-year-old female victim and her guardian. 

Police say it was reported that the victim lives at the residence with Fred Vieyra.  Fred reportedly laid down by the victim and fondled her and sexually penetrated her, according to police. 

Investigator Deal says the victim is lower functioning mentally and was unable to give consent. 

Following further investigation, Vieyra was contacted and arrested without incident on suspicion of abuse of a vulnerable adult and sexual assault.

Vieyra was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604353705318.jpeg" alt="Fred Vieyra" />
 <figcaption>Fred Vieyra</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested over the weekend, accused of sexually assaulting a vulnerable adult.According to North Platte police, on October 29, officers responded to a residence in the 900 block of west Philip in reference to a prior sexual assault that occurred in August of 2020. Investigator John Deal says officers met with a 51-year-old female victim and her guardian. Police say it was reported that the victim lives at the residence with Fred Vieyra. Fred reportedly laid down by the victim and fondled her and sexually penetrated her, according to police. Investigator Deal says the victim is lower functioning mentally and was unable to give consent. Following further investigation, Vieyra was contacted and arrested without incident on suspicion of abuse of a vulnerable adult and sexual assault.Vieyra was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

North Platte man accused of sexually assaulting vulnerable adult

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's nursing homes and other long-term care facilities will get a temporary financial boost from the state to help cover the cost of dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, state officials said Monday as the number of virus-related hospitalizations hit a new record.

The state will increase its Medicaid reimbursement for care facilities by an extra $20 per day for each eligible resident, using a combination of federal and state money. The cost of caring for long-term care residents varies widely throughout Nebraska, but the average is around $200, so the extra money would amount to about a 10% increase, health officials said.

Boddy said care facilities will likely use the money to cover earlier pandemic-related expenses, and possibly offer retention and recruitment bonuses to help with staffing shortages.

The assistance will apply retroactively to costs incurred from May 1 and will continue until the end of this year. The additional aid will cost $40 million, with $25 million coming from the federal government and $15 million from the state, said Jeremy Brunssen, interim director of Nebraska's Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care.

"It really has been a team effort with regard to keeping our seniors safe in long-term care facilities," Gov. Pete Ricketts said at a news conference announcing the increase.

The announcement came as Nebraska's hospitals saw a record number of coronavirus patients on Sunday.

State public health officials reported 613 active hospitalizations on Sunday, up slightly from 612 the day before. The numbers have surged over the last month, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>. Overall, 3,050 people in Nebraska have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.

The number of new cases fell to 934 on Sunday, down from 1,087 the previous day.

Nebraska has seen 71,666 known coronavirus cases since the pandemic began, including 654 deaths. So far, 44,773 are listed as recovered.

Nebraska still has 32% of its hospital beds available, as well as 37% of its intensive care unit beds and 77% of its ventilators.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566593255414.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's nursing homes and other long-term care facilities will get a temporary financial boost from the state to help cover the cost of dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, state officials said Monday as the number of virus-related hospitalizations hit a new record.The state will increase its Medicaid reimbursement for care facilities by an extra $20 per day for each eligible resident, using a combination of federal and state money. The cost of caring for long-term care residents varies widely throughout Nebraska, but the average is around $200, so the extra money would amount to about a 10% increase, health officials said.Nebraska's long-term care facilities have been hit especially hard by the pandemic, with residents accounting for about 36% of the state's overall virus deaths. The virus has infected 1,774 long-term care residents and 1,832 staff members since the pandemic began, and 238 residents have died, according to state health officials."This financial aid could not have come at a better time," said Heath Boddy, president and CEO of the Nebraska Health Care Association.Boddy said care facilities will likely use the money to cover earlier pandemic-related expenses, and possibly offer retention and recruitment bonuses to help with staffing shortages.The assistance will apply retroactively to costs incurred from May 1 and will continue until the end of this year. The additional aid will cost $40 million, with $25 million coming from the federal government and $15 million from the state, said Jeremy Brunssen, interim director of Nebraska's Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care."It really has been a team effort with regard to keeping our seniors safe in long-term care facilities," Gov. Pete Ricketts said at a news conference announcing the increase.The announcement came as Nebraska's hospitals saw a record number of coronavirus patients on Sunday.State public health officials reported 613 active hospitalizations on Sunday, up slightly from 612 the day before. The numbers have surged over the last month, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>. Overall, 3,050 people in Nebraska have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.The number of new cases fell to 934 on Sunday, down from 1,087 the previous day.Nebraska has seen 71,666 known coronavirus cases since the pandemic began, including 654 deaths. So far, 44,773 are listed as recovered.Nebraska still has 32% of its hospital beds available, as well as 37% of its intensive care unit beds and 77% of its ventilators.

Nebraska to boost aid for nursing homes hit by coronavirus

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced the appointment of Kevin Bagley as the new Director of the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

“Kevin’s extensive expertise in Medicaid operations will be especially valuable as Nebraska enhances the Heritage Health Adult Plan and continuously improves customer service,” said Governor Pete Ricketts.&nbsp; “Kevin’s insights and experience will help the agency achieve our goal of helping Nebraskans live healthier lives, and I look forward to having Kevin on the team.”

“Kevin will be a valued addition to the Department of Health and Human Services executive team,” added DHHS Chief Executive Officer Dannette R. Smith.&nbsp; “We look forward to welcoming him to Nebraska.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bagley, 37, has worked for the Utah Division of Medicaid since 2011 and is currently the Director of Long-Term Services and Supports in the division.&nbsp; In that role, he has collaborated with community stakeholders, federal, state, and local government agencies; provider associations; health plans; and other community-based organizations to assess and review rate changes, patient access, utilization patterns, clinical standards, provider participation criteria, and consumer and provider satisfaction.

Additionally, Bagley has also worked with key stakeholders in the Utah Legislature, provider networks and consumer advocacy groups to design and implement new strategic programs within Utah Medicaid, including the Medically Complex Children's Waiver, the Medicaid Autism Benefit, and Medicaid Housing Coordination.

Bagley began his Utah Division of Medicaid tenure as an actuarial specialist, subsequently becoming a process implementation manager, and then assistant director of authorizations before assuming his current role.

Bagley holds a Masters of Business Administration from Utah State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Brigham Young University.

Bagley’s first day will be November 30, 2020 and his salary will be $160,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604340360363.png" alt="Kevin Bagley" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Bagley</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced the appointment of Kevin Bagley as the new Director of the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).“Kevin’s extensive expertise in Medicaid operations will be especially valuable as Nebraska enhances the Heritage Health Adult Plan and continuously improves customer service,” said Governor Pete Ricketts.&nbsp; “Kevin’s insights and experience will help the agency achieve our goal of helping Nebraskans live healthier lives, and I look forward to having Kevin on the team.”“Kevin will be a valued addition to the Department of Health and Human Services executive team,” added DHHS Chief Executive Officer Dannette R. Smith.&nbsp; “We look forward to welcoming him to Nebraska.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bagley, 37, has worked for the Utah Division of Medicaid since 2011 and is currently the Director of Long-Term Services and Supports in the division.&nbsp; In that role, he has collaborated with community stakeholders, federal, state, and local government agencies; provider associations; health plans; and other community-based organizations to assess and review rate changes, patient access, utilization patterns, clinical standards, provider participation criteria, and consumer and provider satisfaction.Additionally, Bagley has also worked with key stakeholders in the Utah Legislature, provider networks and consumer advocacy groups to design and implement new strategic programs within Utah Medicaid, including the Medically Complex Children's Waiver, the Medicaid Autism Benefit, and Medicaid Housing Coordination.Bagley began his Utah Division of Medicaid tenure as an actuarial specialist, subsequently becoming a process implementation manager, and then assistant director of authorizations before assuming his current role.Bagley holds a Masters of Business Administration from Utah State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Brigham Young University.Bagley’s first day will be November 30, 2020 and his salary will be $160,000.

Gov. Ricketts names Medicaid Director

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's hospitals saw a record number of coronavirus patients on Sunday as the state continues to deal with the pandemic.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's hospitals saw a record number of coronavirus patients on Sunday as the state continues to deal with the pandemic.State public health officials reported 613 active hospitalizations on Sunday, up slightly from 612 the day before. The numbers have surged over the last month, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online tracking portal</a>. Overall, 3,050 people in Nebraska have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.The number of new cases fell to 934 on Sunday, down from 1,087 the previous day.Nebraska has seen 71,666 known coronavirus cases since the pandemic began, including 654 deaths. So far, 44,773 are listed as recovered.Nebraska still has 32% of its hospital beds available, as well as 37% of its intensive care unit beds and 77% of its ventilators.

Nebraska sees virus hospitalizations rise to new high

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The overall economic measure of a monthly survey of Midwest business leaders hit a 16-year high for October, but the manufacturing sector of the economy remains stunted from the coronavirus outbreak, according to the Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions Index released Monday.

The overall index of improved to 70.2 in October from September's already strong 65.1. Any score above 50 on the survey's indexes suggests growth, while a figure below 50 indicates a decline.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, said that the index mirrored national survey results showing that the manufacturing sector has been expanding.

"Even so, current output in the regional and U.S. manufacturing sectors remains below pre-COVID-19 levels," Goss said. "More than three of four supply managers reported negative COVID-19 impacts."

Job growth remains strong in the region, with the employment index growing to 66.7 from 61.8 in September. Goss said the region's unemployment rate fell to 2.9% in October after hitting a high of 11% in May. Before the coronavirus outbreak began, unemployment in region was at 1.3%. About 8 of 10 supply managers reported shortages of qualified workers to fill open positions at their firms in October, Goss said.

Business leaders remained optimistic about the next six months, with the confidence index growing to 70.4 from 69.4 in September.

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

Midwest Economy: October state-by-state glance

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Institute for Supply Management, formerly the Purchasing Management Association, began formally surveying its membership in 1931 to gauge business conditions.

The Creighton Economic Forecasting Group uses the same methodology as the national survey to consult supply managers and business leaders. Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss oversees the report.

The overall index ranges between 0 and 100. Growth neutral is 50, and a figure greater than 50 indicates growth in that factor over the next three to six months. A figure below 50 indicates decline.

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

Arkansas: The overall index for Arkansas fell to 64.4 from September's 68.5. Components of the index were: new orders at 75.5, production or sales at 72.4, delivery lead time at 63.4, inventories at 48.5, and employment at 62.1. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood a 0.9% in the second week of March, peaked at 11.7% in the third week of May, and fell to 1.8% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Iowa: The state's overall index climbed to 78.7 from 67.1 in September. Components were: new orders at 82.1, production. or sales at 71.2, delivery lead time at 69.3, employment at 80.9, and inventories at 93.4. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 1.7% in the second week of March, peaked at 12.4% in the first week of May, and fell to 2.6% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Kansas: The overall state index increased to 68.7 from 63.0 in September. Components of the index were: new orders at 76.9, production or sales at 74.1, delivery lead time at 68.6, employment at 66.1, and inventories at 58.0. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.7% in the second week of March, peaked at 14.6% in the third week of May, and fell to 4% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Minnesota: The overall index for Minnesota soared to 82.7 from 55.9 in September. Components of the overall October index were: new orders at 81.4, production or sales at 79.4, delivery lead time at 85.0, inventories at 88.5, and employment at 78.9. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 2.3% in the second week of March, peaked at 14.9% in the second week of May, and fell to 4.2% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Missouri: The overall index for Missouri advanced to 78.0 from September's 74.4. Components were: new orders at 84.6, production or sales at 83.2, delivery lead time at 78.8, inventories at 55.6, and employment at 87.9. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.8% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.5% in the third week of May, and fell to 1.9% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Nebraska: Nebraska's overall index for September jumped to 71.4 from 62.9 in September. Components of the index were: new orders at 77.8, production or sales at 75.1, delivery lead time at 71.7, inventories at 63.9, and employment at 68.6. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.5% in the second week of March, peaked at 11% in the fourth week of May, and fell to 3.2% in the third week of October," Goss said.

North Dakota: The overall index for North Dakota climbed to 59.0 from 55.6 in September. Components were: new orders at 72.7, production or sales at 69.1, delivery lead time at 53.2, employment at 54.2, and inventories at 45.6. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 1.5% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.7% in the first week of May, and fell to 1.3% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Oklahoma: The state's overall index advanced to a strong 61.1 from September's 58.6. Components were: new orders at 72.4, production or sales at 68.7, delivery lead time at 52.2, inventories at 58.9, and employment at 53.5. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 1.1% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.6% in third week of May, and fell to 3.8% in the third week of October," Goss said.

South Dakota: The overall index for South Dakota climbed to 71.2 from 59.9 in September. Components of the overall index were: new orders at 77.7, production or sales at 75.0, delivery lead time at 71.4, inventories at 63.4, and employment at 68.3. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.6% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.7% in the fourth week of May, and fell to 1.0% in the third week of October," Goss said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The overall economic measure of a monthly survey of Midwest business leaders hit a 16-year high for October, but the manufacturing sector of the economy remains stunted from the coronavirus outbreak, according to the Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions Index released Monday.The overall index of improved to 70.2 in October from September's already strong 65.1. Any score above 50 on the survey's indexes suggests growth, while a figure below 50 indicates a decline.Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, said that the index mirrored national survey results showing that the manufacturing sector has been expanding."Even so, current output in the regional and U.S. manufacturing sectors remains below pre-COVID-19 levels," Goss said. "More than three of four supply managers reported negative COVID-19 impacts."Job growth remains strong in the region, with the employment index growing to 66.7 from 61.8 in September. Goss said the region's unemployment rate fell to 2.9% in October after hitting a high of 11% in May. Before the coronavirus outbreak began, unemployment in region was at 1.3%. About 8 of 10 supply managers reported shortages of qualified workers to fill open positions at their firms in October, Goss said.Business leaders remained optimistic about the next six months, with the confidence index growing to 70.4 from 69.4 in September.The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.Midwest Economy: October state-by-state glance OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Institute for Supply Management, formerly the Purchasing Management Association, began formally surveying its membership in 1931 to gauge business conditions.The Creighton Economic Forecasting Group uses the same methodology as the national survey to consult supply managers and business leaders. Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss oversees the report.The overall index ranges between 0 and 100. Growth neutral is 50, and a figure greater than 50 indicates growth in that factor over the next three to six months. A figure below 50 indicates decline.Here are the state-by-state results for October:Arkansas: The overall index for Arkansas fell to 64.4 from September's 68.5. Components of the index were: new orders at 75.5, production or sales at 72.4, delivery lead time at 63.4, inventories at 48.5, and employment at 62.1. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood a 0.9% in the second week of March, peaked at 11.7% in the third week of May, and fell to 1.8% in the third week of October," Goss said.Iowa: The state's overall index climbed to 78.7 from 67.1 in September. Components were: new orders at 82.1, production. or sales at 71.2, delivery lead time at 69.3, employment at 80.9, and inventories at 93.4. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 1.7% in the second week of March, peaked at 12.4% in the first week of May, and fell to 2.6% in the third week of October," Goss said.Kansas: The overall state index increased to 68.7 from 63.0 in September. Components of the index were: new orders at 76.9, production or sales at 74.1, delivery lead time at 68.6, employment at 66.1, and inventories at 58.0. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.7% in the second week of March, peaked at 14.6% in the third week of May, and fell to 4% in the third week of October," Goss said.Minnesota: The overall index for Minnesota soared to 82.7 from 55.9 in September. Components of the overall October index were: new orders at 81.4, production or sales at 79.4, delivery lead time at 85.0, inventories at 88.5, and employment at 78.9. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 2.3% in the second week of March, peaked at 14.9% in the second week of May, and fell to 4.2% in the third week of October," Goss said.Missouri: The overall index for Missouri advanced to 78.0 from September's 74.4. Components were: new orders at 84.6, production or sales at 83.2, delivery lead time at 78.8, inventories at 55.6, and employment at 87.9. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.8% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.5% in the third week of May, and fell to 1.9% in the third week of October," Goss said.Nebraska: Nebraska's overall index for September jumped to 71.4 from 62.9 in September. Components of the index were: new orders at 77.8, production or sales at 75.1, delivery lead time at 71.7, inventories at 63.9, and employment at 68.6. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.5% in the second week of March, peaked at 11% in the fourth week of May, and fell to 3.2% in the third week of October," Goss said.North Dakota: The overall index for North Dakota climbed to 59.0 from 55.6 in September. Components were: new orders at 72.7, production or sales at 69.1, delivery lead time at 53.2, employment at 54.2, and inventories at 45.6. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 1.5% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.7% in the first week of May, and fell to 1.3% in the third week of October," Goss said.Oklahoma: The state's overall index advanced to a strong 61.1 from September's 58.6. Components were: new orders at 72.4, production or sales at 68.7, delivery lead time at 52.2, inventories at 58.9, and employment at 53.5. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 1.1% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.6% in third week of May, and fell to 3.8% in the third week of October," Goss said.South Dakota: The overall index for South Dakota climbed to 71.2 from 59.9 in September. Components of the overall index were: new orders at 77.7, production or sales at 75.0, delivery lead time at 71.4, inventories at 63.4, and employment at 68.3. "Validating a rapidly improving state economy, U.S. Department of Labor data indicate that the state's insured unemployment rate stood at 0.6% in the second week of March, peaked at 9.7% in the fourth week of May, and fell to 1.0% in the third week of October," Goss said.

Business leaders survey hits highest level in 16 years

LINCOLN, Neb. – Because of COVID-19 concerns, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will not run check stations this firearm deer season. Instead, all deer will be checked in electronically via Telecheck.

This decision was made to avoid close contact between check station workers and hunters during the Nov. 14-22 firearm deer season in an effort to protect public health.

One major change from years past is that hunters must complete the Telecheck process within 48 hours of their deer harvest and no later than 1 p.m. on the day following the close of the season.

To use online Telecheck, hunters should record their harvest at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDExMDIuMjk3NjE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FwcHMub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9CZ0hhcnZlc3QifQ.6OKRMFsJEZOY8fzm6iBpq-MHGaK57SHBHbkp9zq7SgY/s/497221905/br/87797651718-l" target="_blank">apps.outdoornebraska.gov/BgHarvest</a>. Hunters are required to log:

• their permit number and name confirmation;

• whether the deer was harvested on private, public or Open Fields and Waters Program land, and the name of the area if on public;

• whether the animal was an adult or fawn;

• whether the antlers, if present, have a spread of more or less than 11 inches between the main beams.

Once hunters submit their registration, they will be provided with a seal number that must be written on their cancelled deer permit. Deer may not leave the state until registered.

Hunters who have difficulty completing the online registration process may call their local Game and Parks district office or service center between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. during the season: Lincoln, Wildlife Division office, 402-471-9932; Alliance district office, 308-763-2940; Kearney service center, 308-865-5310; Norfolk district office, 402-370-3374; Bassett service center, 402-684-2921; or North Platte district office, 308-535-8025.

Hunters also may complete Telecheck by calling 844-279-4564, available 24 hours a day.

Telecheck has been used to check all deer taken outside the November firearm season for the past 10 years.

Game and Parks amended its wildlife regulations in August to allow its director, in the interest of public health, to determine that physical check stations are not prudent during the November firearm deer season, and allow deer to be checked via internet or telephone.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Because of COVID-19 concerns, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will not run check stations this firearm deer season. Instead, all deer will be checked in electronically via Telecheck.This decision was made to avoid close contact between check station workers and hunters during the Nov. 14-22 firearm deer season in an effort to protect public health.One major change from years past is that hunters must complete the Telecheck process within 48 hours of their deer harvest and no later than 1 p.m. on the day following the close of the season.To use online Telecheck, hunters should record their harvest at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDExMDIuMjk3NjE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FwcHMub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9CZ0hhcnZlc3QifQ.6OKRMFsJEZOY8fzm6iBpq-MHGaK57SHBHbkp9zq7SgY/s/497221905/br/87797651718-l" target="_blank">apps.outdoornebraska.gov/BgHarvest</a>. Hunters are required to log:• species of the animal;• their permit number and name confirmation;• county where harvest was made;• whether the deer was harvested on private, public or Open Fields and Waters Program land, and the name of the area if on public;• management unit;• date of kill;• number of days hunted;• weapon used;• sex of the animal;• whether the animal was an adult or fawn;• whether the antlers, if present, have a spread of more or less than 11 inches between the main beams.Once hunters submit their registration, they will be provided with a seal number that must be written on their cancelled deer permit. Deer may not leave the state until registered.Hunters who have difficulty completing the online registration process may call their local Game and Parks district office or service center between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. during the season: Lincoln, Wildlife Division office, 402-471-9932; Alliance district office, 308-763-2940; Kearney service center, 308-865-5310; Norfolk district office, 402-370-3374; Bassett service center, 402-684-2921; or North Platte district office, 308-535-8025.Hunters also may complete Telecheck by calling 844-279-4564, available 24 hours a day.Telecheck has been used to check all deer taken outside the November firearm season for the past 10 years.Game and Parks amended its wildlife regulations in August to allow its director, in the interest of public health, to determine that physical check stations are not prudent during the November firearm deer season, and allow deer to be checked via internet or telephone.

Deer check moves online only in 2020 in light of coronavirus concerns

Scotty C sat down for the final time with North Platte mayoral candidates John Hales and Brandon Kelliher. Each candidate was asked the same five questions. Thank you to both for the time they've taken to sit down with us leading up to the election! Make sure you vote on Tuesday if you haven't already! This interview made possible, in part, by Phares Financial Services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604232981221.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scotty C sat down for the final time with North Platte mayoral candidates John Hales and Brandon Kelliher. Each candidate was asked the same five questions. Thank you to both for the time they've taken to sit down with us leading up to the election! Make sure you vote on Tuesday if you haven't already! This interview made possible, in part, by Phares Financial Services.Here are the questions:<ol>
 <li>If elected, what would you do in the first 90 days?</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>What is more important, acting in response to the will of the people or acting the way city officials believe is the best course of action?</li><li>What is your greatest weakness and strength?</li><li>What role should the city play in the continuing coronavirus outbreak?</li><li>Why should the people vote for you?</li>
 </ol><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Final questions for North Platte mayoral candidates" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/wqham-f0fc10?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: Final questions for North Platte mayoral candidates

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Five of the six states with the nation's lowest unemployment rates are in the Midwest, have Republican governors and have almost no restrictions intended to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

The governors say their decisions not to impose harsher restrictions are paying off with fewer business closures and more hiring reflected in the strong jobless numbers. But economists say it's not so simple. Although businesses that are struggling during the pandemic can benefit when governors opt not to require masks or limit in-door gatherings, other factors may play an even bigger role in producing such low unemployment rates.

And those same rules that could initially help the states' economies also are blamed for their leading the nation in coronavirus infection rates, raising questions about whether their hands-off approach is sustainable. North Dakota and South Dakota have the most cases per capita in the U.S., and Nebraska and Iowa aren't far behind.

"If hospitalization and death rates increase, then you have a motivation by politicians to close the economy down. That would be very deadly and push unemployment rates back up," said Ernie Goss, an economist at Creighton University in Omaha.

For now, though, those Midwestern states have a lock atop the unemployment rankings, far below the national average rate for September of 7.9%. Nebraska leads the nation with a 3.5% unemployment rate, followed by South Dakota, Vermont, North Dakota, Iowa and Missouri.

Most of the Midwestern governors imposed some restrictions last spring, but they were among the first to ease them, arguing that they needed to balance efforts to slow the virus' spread with the need for a robust economy.

"I've got to believe that if you shut down harder, you're going to see a more severe impact to your industries and the longer you're shut down, the harder it's going to be for those industries to rebound," Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts told The Associated Press.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who tested positive for COVID-19 in September, has touted a balanced approach to coping with the pandemic. And Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds urged residents not to let the virus dominate their lives.

In South Dakota, Gov. Kristi Noem said: "There's consequences to what we've seen happen in other states - that shutting down businesses, stopping people's way of life has some devastating impacts. We're taking a very balanced approach."

In contrast, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, has worked aggressively to tamp down the virus, including closing some businesses in the spring and imposing a mask mandate. Vermont now has one of the nation's lowest COVID-19 infection rates along with the third-lowest unemployment rate.

Like the Midwestern states, Vermont is largely rural with industries that weren't hurt as badly by the pandemic.

Economists say that's not a coincidence, noting that states dominated by agriculture and some kinds of manufacturing were able to operate closer to normal and managed to bounce back more quickly. That contrasts with states that rely on tourism, such as California, Nevada and Hawaii, which have the nation's highest unemployment rates.

"The economy of a rural state has a different structure, so more of the people work in industries that wouldn't really be disrupted by a need for social distancing like agriculture," said Eric Thompson, who leads the Bureau of Business Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The Midwestern states already had ultra-low unemployment rates before the pandemic, and they benefitted early on from a lack of population density, with plenty of wide-open spaces and few major cities where it would be harder to avoid catching the virus. More recently, though, many of those rural areas have seen some of the nation's highest virus rates.

Even in industries like meatpacking that initially were devastated by workers catching COVID-19, the companies have managed to make changes that have allowed their operations to nearly return to normal.

Thompson said a lack of restrictions may have been most important in the spring. At the height of the shutdowns in April, Nebraska's unemployment rate peaked at 8.7%, which was slightly more than half the national rate of 14.7% at that time.

Nathan Kauffman, Omaha branch executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, said fewer businesses closed in these states because many of them are in what are considered essential industries.

Ricketts agreed that Nebraska's mix of industries played a significant role in helping the state's economy.

"The kinds of things that we're strong in are agriculture, manufacturing, finance and technology. You've just got industries that are not going to be as impacted by a pandemic," Ricketts said.

But even if business has remained better in these states, that doesn't mean they have been completely spared. Restaurants, hotels and other types of businesses are still struggling because people remain wary of resuming their normal shopping patterns, and those economic costs could rise amid spikes in virus rates.

Despite the low unemployment figures, all of the states now have fewer jobs than before the pandemic hit. Nationally, the economy has regained only about half of the 22 million jobs that were lost.

Still, many Midwestern business owners and leaders say they appreciate their governors' lighter touch.

In Rapid City, South Dakota, Black Hills Bagels never had to close because the wholesale side of its operation continued providing products to grocery stores, and its retail store turned to drive-thru and delivery options, owner Debra Jensen said. It even had trouble hiring the workers it needed this year because unemployment remained so low.

"I'm just happy that the state and the folks in South Dakota made the right decisions to make sure our economy didn't just bottom out," Jensen said.

Arik Spencer, president and CEO of the North Dakota Chamber of Commerce, said he doesn't think shutting down the economy is the right approach, but every state is trying to help the economy while managing the virus.

"We hope that with the thoughtful approach of decisionmakers here in North Dakota, we're poised to recover quickly. But if there was a silver bullet for recovery, every state in the country would be utilizing that right now," Spencer said.

By JOSH FUNK-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Five of the six states with the nation's lowest unemployment rates are in the Midwest, have Republican governors and have almost no restrictions intended to slow the spread of the coronavirus.The governors say their decisions not to impose harsher restrictions are paying off with fewer business closures and more hiring reflected in the strong jobless numbers. But economists say it's not so simple. Although businesses that are struggling during the pandemic can benefit when governors opt not to require masks or limit in-door gatherings, other factors may play an even bigger role in producing such low unemployment rates.And those same rules that could initially help the states' economies also are blamed for their leading the nation in coronavirus infection rates, raising questions about whether their hands-off approach is sustainable. North Dakota and South Dakota have the most cases per capita in the U.S., and Nebraska and Iowa aren't far behind."If hospitalization and death rates increase, then you have a motivation by politicians to close the economy down. That would be very deadly and push unemployment rates back up," said Ernie Goss, an economist at Creighton University in Omaha.For now, though, those Midwestern states have a lock atop the unemployment rankings, far below the national average rate for September of 7.9%. Nebraska leads the nation with a 3.5% unemployment rate, followed by South Dakota, Vermont, North Dakota, Iowa and Missouri.Most of the Midwestern governors imposed some restrictions last spring, but they were among the first to ease them, arguing that they needed to balance efforts to slow the virus' spread with the need for a robust economy."I've got to believe that if you shut down harder, you're going to see a more severe impact to your industries and the longer you're shut down, the harder it's going to be for those industries to rebound," Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts told The Associated Press.Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who tested positive for COVID-19 in September, has touted a balanced approach to coping with the pandemic. And Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds urged residents not to let the virus dominate their lives.In South Dakota, Gov. Kristi Noem said: "There's consequences to what we've seen happen in other states - that shutting down businesses, stopping people's way of life has some devastating impacts. We're taking a very balanced approach."In contrast, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, has worked aggressively to tamp down the virus, including closing some businesses in the spring and imposing a mask mandate. Vermont now has one of the nation's lowest COVID-19 infection rates along with the third-lowest unemployment rate.Like the Midwestern states, Vermont is largely rural with industries that weren't hurt as badly by the pandemic.Economists say that's not a coincidence, noting that states dominated by agriculture and some kinds of manufacturing were able to operate closer to normal and managed to bounce back more quickly. That contrasts with states that rely on tourism, such as California, Nevada and Hawaii, which have the nation's highest unemployment rates."The economy of a rural state has a different structure, so more of the people work in industries that wouldn't really be disrupted by a need for social distancing like agriculture," said Eric Thompson, who leads the Bureau of Business Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.The Midwestern states already had ultra-low unemployment rates before the pandemic, and they benefitted early on from a lack of population density, with plenty of wide-open spaces and few major cities where it would be harder to avoid catching the virus. More recently, though, many of those rural areas have seen some of the nation's highest virus rates.Even in industries like meatpacking that initially were devastated by workers catching COVID-19, the companies have managed to make changes that have allowed their operations to nearly return to normal.Thompson said a lack of restrictions may have been most important in the spring. At the height of the shutdowns in April, Nebraska's unemployment rate peaked at 8.7%, which was slightly more than half the national rate of 14.7% at that time.Nathan Kauffman, Omaha branch executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, said fewer businesses closed in these states because many of them are in what are considered essential industries.Ricketts agreed that Nebraska's mix of industries played a significant role in helping the state's economy."The kinds of things that we're strong in are agriculture, manufacturing, finance and technology. You've just got industries that are not going to be as impacted by a pandemic," Ricketts said.But even if business has remained better in these states, that doesn't mean they have been completely spared. Restaurants, hotels and other types of businesses are still struggling because people remain wary of resuming their normal shopping patterns, and those economic costs could rise amid spikes in virus rates.Despite the low unemployment figures, all of the states now have fewer jobs than before the pandemic hit. Nationally, the economy has regained only about half of the 22 million jobs that were lost.Still, many Midwestern business owners and leaders say they appreciate their governors' lighter touch.In Rapid City, South Dakota, Black Hills Bagels never had to close because the wholesale side of its operation continued providing products to grocery stores, and its retail store turned to drive-thru and delivery options, owner Debra Jensen said. It even had trouble hiring the workers it needed this year because unemployment remained so low."I'm just happy that the state and the folks in South Dakota made the right decisions to make sure our economy didn't just bottom out," Jensen said.Arik Spencer, president and CEO of the North Dakota Chamber of Commerce, said he doesn't think shutting down the economy is the right approach, but every state is trying to help the economy while managing the virus."We hope that with the thoughtful approach of decisionmakers here in North Dakota, we're poised to recover quickly. But if there was a silver bullet for recovery, every state in the country would be utilizing that right now," Spencer said.

Midwestern states with few virus rules have low unemployment

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The recent surge in coronavirus cases in Nebraska has prompted one expert to predict that the number of deaths in the state linked to the virus could nearly quadruple by the start of 2021.

Dr. James Lawler, a director at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Global Center for Health Security in Omaha, said Friday that the state could have more than 2,500 COVID-19-related deaths by January if current trends continue without more stringent public health measures or better compliance with the measures already in place. The state has so far reported 652 deaths linked to the virus.

"If the outbreak continues at this pace, and we don't implement much more stringent public health interventions - or at least if we don't get people to adopt those behaviors, which ultimately is the most important thing - I think we could easily see three times the total we've seen so far," he said&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/unmc-pandemic-expert-fears-dramatic-increase-in-nebraskas-covid-19-deaths/article_234fc101-c85f-5524-89e2-bd9f9742d6e3.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">to the Omaha World-Herald</a>.

Nebraska reported 1,087 new virus cases Saturday to give the state a total of 70,732 cases so far. The rate of new cases in the state ranked sixth-highest in the nation Saturday.

And the number of people hospitalized with the virus set another new record at 612 Saturday. That is more than 2.5 times the spring peak of 232 set on May 27.

The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks registered 694.56 on Saturday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 795.71 new cases per day on Oct. 17 to 1,019.29 new cases per day on Saturday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The recent surge in coronavirus cases in Nebraska has prompted one expert to predict that the number of deaths in the state linked to the virus could nearly quadruple by the start of 2021.Dr. James Lawler, a director at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Global Center for Health Security in Omaha, said Friday that the state could have more than 2,500 COVID-19-related deaths by January if current trends continue without more stringent public health measures or better compliance with the measures already in place. The state has so far reported 652 deaths linked to the virus."If the outbreak continues at this pace, and we don't implement much more stringent public health interventions - or at least if we don't get people to adopt those behaviors, which ultimately is the most important thing - I think we could easily see three times the total we've seen so far," he said&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/unmc-pandemic-expert-fears-dramatic-increase-in-nebraskas-covid-19-deaths/article_234fc101-c85f-5524-89e2-bd9f9742d6e3.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">to the Omaha World-Herald</a>.Nebraska reported 1,087 new virus cases Saturday to give the state a total of 70,732 cases so far. The rate of new cases in the state ranked sixth-highest in the nation Saturday.And the number of people hospitalized with the virus set another new record at 612 Saturday. That is more than 2.5 times the spring peak of 232 set on May 27.The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks registered 694.56 on Saturday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 795.71 new cases per day on Oct. 17 to 1,019.29 new cases per day on Saturday.

Nebraska virus deaths could surge if current trends continue

DEADWOOD, S.D. (AP) — Authorities say a 28-year-old woman found on the dance floor of a Deadwood casino died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

The Rapid City Journal reports that officers responded to a call of a shooting at The Buffalo Bodega Gaming Complex just after midnight Saturday. 

Medics attempted to revive the woman, but were unsuccessful. 

 The victim’s identity has not been released and the incident remains under investigation.

DEADWOOD, S.D. (AP) — Authorities say a 28-year-old woman found on the dance floor of a Deadwood casino died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Rapid City Journal reports that officers responded to a call of a shooting at The Buffalo Bodega Gaming Complex just after midnight Saturday. Medics attempted to revive the woman, but were unsuccessful. She was declared dead at the scene. The victim’s identity has not been released and the incident remains under investigation.

Deadwood police: Woman killed herself on casino dance floor

Ashley HomeStore held a “Give Back” Event from September 21th-October 5th. 

 A portion of qualifying sales were donated to five area non-profits. Their customers were able to choose which charity to support. 

“The area Ashley Homestores in Kearney, Grand Island and North Platte were thrilled to announce that they raised over $14,000 during their Give Back event,”&nbsp;Chandler Broman, North Platte Store Manager said.

Non-profits supported include the Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity, and three Public Schools Foundations—Kearney, Grand Island and North Platte. 

 The North Platte Public Schools Foundation received a check for $650 to support the schools.&nbsp;

The North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity received a check for $450 to support their ongoing projects.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604231697821.png" alt="The Ashley HomeStore Team and Terri Burchell, Executive Director for North Platte Public Schools Foundation.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Ashley HomeStore Team and Terri Burchell, Executive Director for North Platte Public Schools Foundation.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Ashley HomeStore held a “Give Back” Event from September 21th-October 5th. A portion of qualifying sales were donated to five area non-profits. Their customers were able to choose which charity to support. “The area Ashley Homestores in Kearney, Grand Island and North Platte were thrilled to announce that they raised over $14,000 during their Give Back event,”&nbsp;Chandler Broman, North Platte Store Manager said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604237530710.png" alt="The&nbsp; Ashley HomeStore team with Dalene Skates, Executive Director of the North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity." />
 <figcaption>The&nbsp; Ashley HomeStore team with Dalene Skates, Executive Director of the North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity.</figcaption>
 </figure>Non-profits supported include the Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity, and three Public Schools Foundations—Kearney, Grand Island and North Platte. The North Platte Public Schools Foundation received a check for $650 to support the schools.&nbsp;The North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity received a check for $450 to support their ongoing projects.&nbsp;

Ashley HomeStore makes donations to NPPSF, Habitat for Humanity, other non-profits

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is reporting nearly 1,500 new coronavirus cases for just a single day and another high for the number of people hospitalized because of COVID-19.

The state Department of Health and Human services online virus tracker said that as of Friday evening, Nebraska has had 69,645 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began. That was an increase of 1,495 cases since Thursday or 2.2%.

The department also said that 584 people were hospitalized, an increase of 56 or 10.6% from the previous high Thursday of 528. The state has had more than 3,000 hospitalizations in all. The department reported that 76% of the state's 827 ventilators were in use as of Friday.

The health department also reported an additional nine COVID-19-related deaths to bring the total to 646.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is reporting nearly 1,500 new coronavirus cases for just a single day and another high for the number of people hospitalized because of COVID-19.The state Department of Health and Human services online virus tracker said that as of Friday evening, Nebraska has had 69,645 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began. That was an increase of 1,495 cases since Thursday or 2.2%.The department also said that 584 people were hospitalized, an increase of 56 or 10.6% from the previous high Thursday of 528. The state has had more than 3,000 hospitalizations in all. The department reported that 76% of the state's 827 ventilators were in use as of Friday.The health department also reported an additional nine COVID-19-related deaths to bring the total to 646.

Nebraska agency reports nearly 1,500 new coronavirus cases

NEW YORK (AP) — McRib, the fast-food sandwich that went viral before viral was a thing, is back.

McDonald’s announced Friday that for the first time in eight years it will be offering nationwide its barbeque slathered sandwich with the cult following.

The McRib will appear on the menus on Dec. 2, for a limited time of course.

The McRib is an elusive prize for adherents, who scour the internet for reports of its surfacing at limited locations, and for a short amount of time. There is even a website called the&nbsp;<a href="https://mcriblocator.com/" target="_blank">McRib Locator</a>, created to spread the word about McDonald’s restaurants that are offering the boneless pork sandwich served with slivered onions and pickles on top.

The company’s social media team this month lamented a lack of concern over its&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/McDonalds/status/1319677926296739841" target="_blank">feelings</a>, when the McRib enters the conversation.

McDonald’s is reintroducing the McRib nationally as it tries to regain its footing during the pandemic, which left many of its dining rooms sparsely populated or empty, though drive-thrus continued to operate.

When it released second-quarter earnings in July showing a 68% decline in net income, the world’s largest burger chain said it would spend more than $200 million to support franchisee marketing during the second quarter in a bid to get customers back.

It’s not impossible to get a McRib any time you want it, but you might need to travel to Germany, where it’s on the menu year-round.

The McRib debuted nationally in the U.S. in 1982.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604150328339.png" alt="Photo: <a href="https://snappygoat.com/free-public-domain-images-mcd_mcrib/QzHZyKGGjzx0u-eKsiW179VQtw9WWaJphvmXbn68Drs.html#,0,0.1f6d3efe77fedfb6fa130f5067ba2214a23b3c57">snappygoat.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo: <a href="https://snappygoat.com/free-public-domain-images-mcd_mcrib/QzHZyKGGjzx0u-eKsiW179VQtw9WWaJphvmXbn68Drs.html#,0,0.1f6d3efe77fedfb6fa130f5067ba2214a23b3c57">snappygoat.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — McRib, the fast-food sandwich that went viral before viral was a thing, is back.McDonald’s announced Friday that for the first time in eight years it will be offering nationwide its barbeque slathered sandwich with the cult following.The McRib will appear on the menus on Dec. 2, for a limited time of course.The McRib is an elusive prize for adherents, who scour the internet for reports of its surfacing at limited locations, and for a short amount of time. There is even a website called the&nbsp;<a href="https://mcriblocator.com/" target="_blank">McRib Locator</a>, created to spread the word about McDonald’s restaurants that are offering the boneless pork sandwich served with slivered onions and pickles on top.The company’s social media team this month lamented a lack of concern over its&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/McDonalds/status/1319677926296739841" target="_blank">feelings</a>, when the McRib enters the conversation.McDonald’s is reintroducing the McRib nationally as it tries to regain its footing during the pandemic, which left many of its dining rooms sparsely populated or empty, though drive-thrus continued to operate.When it released second-quarter earnings in July showing a 68% decline in net income, the world’s largest burger chain said it would spend more than $200 million to support franchisee marketing during the second quarter in a bid to get customers back.It’s not impossible to get a McRib any time you want it, but you might need to travel to Germany, where it’s on the menu year-round.The McRib debuted nationally in the U.S. in 1982.

McDonald's cult classic, the McRib, is coming back

LINCOLN, Neb. – From August through May, nearly 180,000 Nebraskans head to the field each year in search of various game. Whatever the quarry may be, hunters adhering to these safety tips reduce their risk and that of fellow hunters afield.

• Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

• Keep your firearm on safety and your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

• Identify your target, and what lies beyond it. Never shoot toward a roadway, at a sky-lined animal, or at water or ice.

• Keep your firearms unloaded when not in use, including vehicles and ATVs.

• Wear blaze orange. Even when not legally required, blaze orange is highly recommended for visibility.

• Unload firearms before crossing an obstacle, such as a fence, creek, ditch or unsteady surface.

• When hunting in a group, maintain your zone of fire and never swing on game toward your hunting partners. Keep in contact with your partners and know where they are at all times.

• When hunting from a tree stand or tripod stand, wear and correctly use a Fall Arrest System (safety harness).

• Have a plan for your hunt; let others know where you will be and when you expect to return.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMzAuMjk2OTIyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbWFnYXppbmUub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8yMDIwLzA4L2h1bnRlcnMtdXJnZWQtdG8tc3RheS1zYWZlLWluLXRoZS1maWVsZC10aGlzLXNlYXNvbi0yLyJ9.qf6drJWybNdKFukFBLax-4K2xPv_7m_fHO6E0RLkF20/s/497221905/br/87688665402-l" target="_blank">Hunters urged to stay safe in the field this season</a>

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMzAuMjk2OTIyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbWFnYXppbmUub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8yMDIwLzEwL3VwbGFuZC1iaXJkLWh1bnRlcnMtZW5jb3VyYWdlZC10by1zdGF5LXNhZmUtaW4tdGhlLWZpZWxkLyJ9.4rODG8Os3VIW6ceKpO_ji52RZFgEO0LZbGokejy7ifo/s/497221905/br/87688665402-l" target="_blank">Upland bird hunters encouraged to stay safe in the field</a>

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMzAuMjk2OTIyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbWFnYXppbmUub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8yMDE5LzExL3NhZmV0eS1zaG91bGQtYmUtdG9wLXByaW9yaXR5LWZvci1maXJlYXJtLWRlZXItaHVudGVycy8ifQ.Sd6cCYF_qh0szyIvQEEDAdub4BF570IEyU4RKgTROdE/s/497221905/br/87688665402-l" target="_blank">Safety should be top priority for firearm deer hunters</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571333039832.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – From August through May, nearly 180,000 Nebraskans head to the field each year in search of various game. Whatever the quarry may be, hunters adhering to these safety tips reduce their risk and that of fellow hunters afield.Hunters always should follow these tips:• Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction.• Keep your firearm on safety and your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.• Identify your target, and what lies beyond it. Never shoot toward a roadway, at a sky-lined animal, or at water or ice.• Keep your firearms unloaded when not in use, including vehicles and ATVs.• Wear blaze orange. Even when not legally required, blaze orange is highly recommended for visibility.• Unload firearms before crossing an obstacle, such as a fence, creek, ditch or unsteady surface.• When hunting in a group, maintain your zone of fire and never swing on game toward your hunting partners. Keep in contact with your partners and know where they are at all times.• When hunting from a tree stand or tripod stand, wear and correctly use a Fall Arrest System (safety harness).• Have a plan for your hunt; let others know where you will be and when you expect to return.Read more on hunting safety:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMzAuMjk2OTIyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbWFnYXppbmUub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8yMDIwLzA4L2h1bnRlcnMtdXJnZWQtdG8tc3RheS1zYWZlLWluLXRoZS1maWVsZC10aGlzLXNlYXNvbi0yLyJ9.qf6drJWybNdKFukFBLax-4K2xPv_7m_fHO6E0RLkF20/s/497221905/br/87688665402-l" target="_blank">Hunters urged to stay safe in the field this season</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMzAuMjk2OTIyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbWFnYXppbmUub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8yMDIwLzEwL3VwbGFuZC1iaXJkLWh1bnRlcnMtZW5jb3VyYWdlZC10by1zdGF5LXNhZmUtaW4tdGhlLWZpZWxkLyJ9.4rODG8Os3VIW6ceKpO_ji52RZFgEO0LZbGokejy7ifo/s/497221905/br/87688665402-l" target="_blank">Upland bird hunters encouraged to stay safe in the field</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMzAuMjk2OTIyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbWFnYXppbmUub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8yMDE5LzExL3NhZmV0eS1zaG91bGQtYmUtdG9wLXByaW9yaXR5LWZvci1maXJlYXJtLWRlZXItaHVudGVycy8ifQ.Sd6cCYF_qh0szyIvQEEDAdub4BF570IEyU4RKgTROdE/s/497221905/br/87688665402-l" target="_blank">Safety should be top priority for firearm deer hunters</a>

Game and Parks offers safety tips for hunters

NebraskaLand National Bank has been named one of the&nbsp;Best Banks to Work For&nbsp;in 2020.&nbsp;NebraskaLand National Bank is ranked number 17 overall and the only Nebraska Bank in the ranking.

<a></a>The&nbsp;Best Banks to Work For&nbsp;program, which was initiated in 2013 by&nbsp;American Banker&nbsp;and Best Companies Group, identifies, recognizes and honors banks in the U.S.&nbsp; for outstanding employee satisfaction. Full results of this year’s program are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.americanbanker.com/" target="_blank">American Banker</a>&nbsp;and in the November issue of American Banker Magazine.

“One of the critical factors in a bank's success is how it treats its employees. This year's list honors those institutions which have gone above and beyond to invest in employees' personal and professional growth,” said Alan Kline, editor in chief of American Banker.

Determining the&nbsp;Best Banks to Work For&nbsp;involves a two-step process. The first step involves an evaluation of participating companies’ workplace policies, practices, and demographics. In the second step, employee surveys are conducted to directly assess the experiences and attitudes&nbsp;of individual employees with respect to their workplace. The combined scores determine the top banks and the final ranking.

“I could not be more proud of the amazing team at NebraskaLand National Bank.” said Mike Jacobson, President &amp; CEO of NebraskaLand National Bank.&nbsp; &nbsp;“This was especially evident, as we have navigated through the current pandemic.&nbsp; Their dedication to helping each other to juggle home life and banking duties has been outstanding.&nbsp; I am truly blessed to lead this incredible organization!”

To go directly to a full list of this year’s winning banks,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanbanker.com/list/best-banks-to-work-for" target="_blank">click here</a>.

Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process and also analyzed the data and used their expertise to determine the final ranking.&nbsp;

News ReleaseNebraskaLand National Bank has been named one of the&nbsp;Best Banks to Work For&nbsp;in 2020.&nbsp;NebraskaLand National Bank is ranked number 17 overall and the only Nebraska Bank in the ranking.<a></a>The&nbsp;Best Banks to Work For&nbsp;program, which was initiated in 2013 by&nbsp;American Banker&nbsp;and Best Companies Group, identifies, recognizes and honors banks in the U.S.&nbsp; for outstanding employee satisfaction. Full results of this year’s program are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.americanbanker.com/" target="_blank">American Banker</a>&nbsp;and in the November issue of American Banker Magazine.“One of the critical factors in a bank's success is how it treats its employees. This year's list honors those institutions which have gone above and beyond to invest in employees' personal and professional growth,” said Alan Kline, editor in chief of American Banker.Determining the&nbsp;Best Banks to Work For&nbsp;involves a two-step process. The first step involves an evaluation of participating companies’ workplace policies, practices, and demographics. In the second step, employee surveys are conducted to directly assess the experiences and attitudes&nbsp;of individual employees with respect to their workplace. The combined scores determine the top banks and the final ranking.“I could not be more proud of the amazing team at NebraskaLand National Bank.” said Mike Jacobson, President &amp; CEO of NebraskaLand National Bank.&nbsp; &nbsp;“This was especially evident, as we have navigated through the current pandemic.&nbsp; Their dedication to helping each other to juggle home life and banking duties has been outstanding.&nbsp; I am truly blessed to lead this incredible organization!”To go directly to a full list of this year’s winning banks,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanbanker.com/list/best-banks-to-work-for" target="_blank">click here</a>.Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process and also analyzed the data and used their expertise to determine the final ranking.&nbsp;

NebraskaLand Bank named best bank to work for in Nebraska, 17th in nation

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw a record number of cases of the coronavirus confirmed for one day, as well as a record number of people hospitalized with the virus, according to state health department numbers.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online virus </a>tracker&nbsp;showed 1,605 new cases were confirmed Thursday - the most in one day since 1,286 on Oct. 16. The site also showed 528 people with the virus hospitalized on Thursday, well over the previous day's record of 483. The state's rate of new cases jumped to the seventh-highest in the nation as the number of cases in Nebraska grew to 68,150 and 637 COVID-19 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw a record number of cases of the coronavirus confirmed for one day, as well as a record number of people hospitalized with the virus, according to state health department numbers.The&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online virus </a>tracker&nbsp;showed 1,605 new cases were confirmed Thursday - the most in one day since 1,286 on Oct. 16. The site also showed 528 people with the virus hospitalized on Thursday, well over the previous day's record of 483. The state's rate of new cases jumped to the seventh-highest in the nation as the number of cases in Nebraska grew to 68,150 and 637 COVID-19 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks increased to 659.42 on Thursday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska jumped over the past two weeks from 724.43 new cases per day on Oct. 15 to 891 new cases per day on Thursday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.Even with the increase in cases, the state said 31% of Nebraska's intensive care beds and 74% of its ventilators remain available. But in Douglas County - the state's most populous encompassing Omaha - only 15% of hospital beds and 19% of ICU beds remained available Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news" target="_blank">according&nbsp;</a>to local health officials.

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