OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - City leaders in Nebraska find they're left with the onus of whether to require masks as the state's governor continues to resist issuing a statewide mask mandate in the face of a raging coronavirus pandemic.

The Omaha suburb of Papillion was slated to vote Thursday on a proposal to require masks in public buildings, after two consecutive nights of public debate over the proposal.

About 40 people turned up Tuesday and Wednesday to debate Papillion's mask proposal, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/after-two-public-hearings-papillion-will-vote-on-a-mask-mandate-thursday/article_fcaa5dcc-0a2d-55cb-937b-36891804435b.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. The proposals would require anyone 5 or older to wear masks in many indoor places.

The Papillion Board of Health has recommended the mask mandate, and several medical workers and educators - two professions hit particularly hard by the outbreak - spoke in favor of a mandate. More than a dozen people spoke against the proposal, including laundromat owner Peter Mayberry, believed to be the first person in Omaha ticketed for violating that city's mask mandate.

In Grand Island, police made clear this week that they will enforce that city's mandate passed last week, including charging violators with public nuisance counts.

"If someone has a complaint about someone not wearing a mask, they are to go to the business manager. That's the first step," Grand Island Police Capt. Jim Duering&nbsp;<a href="https://theindependent.com/news/local/police-will-respond-to-complaints-about-noncompliance-with-mask-mandate/article_0249e142-351e-11eb-8958-0f23e18314ff.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>the Grand Island Independent. "So we will respond if a business has already intervened and is not getting compliance."

A surge in cases in recent weeks led Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-59bf8bc37bae54af2c407d33ffd641f3" target="_blank">reissue some statewide restrictions</a>, including requiring masks in certain businesses like salons and tattoo parlors. But Ricketts has refused to impose a statewide mask mandate, arguing that mandates breed resentment and may face resistance.

More than a dozen Nebraska cities have adopted their own mask mandates, including some of the state's largest. That includes Omaha and many of its suburbs, Lincoln, Norfolk, Columbus, Hastings, Beatrice and Kearney.

On Wednesday, the state reported 48 more coronavirus deaths and an additional 2,336 new coronavirus cases. That brought the state's total deaths to 1,128 and 132,530 cases since the pandemic began, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>.

The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Wednesday to 853 from the previous day's 869. But the numbers remain well over the level seen two months earlier when 232 people were hospitalized. The state also reported dwindling hospital space to treat patients, with only 24% of the state's intensive care unit beds available on Wednesday.

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

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 2,296 new cases per day on Nov. 18 to more than 1,787 new cases per day on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606183578618.png" alt="Photo: pixabay.com" />
 <figcaption>Photo: pixabay.com</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - City leaders in Nebraska find they're left with the onus of whether to require masks as the state's governor continues to resist issuing a statewide mask mandate in the face of a raging coronavirus pandemic.The Omaha suburb of Papillion was slated to vote Thursday on a proposal to require masks in public buildings, after two consecutive nights of public debate over the proposal.About 40 people turned up Tuesday and Wednesday to debate Papillion's mask proposal, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/after-two-public-hearings-papillion-will-vote-on-a-mask-mandate-thursday/article_fcaa5dcc-0a2d-55cb-937b-36891804435b.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. The proposals would require anyone 5 or older to wear masks in many indoor places.The Papillion Board of Health has recommended the mask mandate, and several medical workers and educators - two professions hit particularly hard by the outbreak - spoke in favor of a mandate. More than a dozen people spoke against the proposal, including laundromat owner Peter Mayberry, believed to be the first person in Omaha ticketed for violating that city's mask mandate.In Grand Island, police made clear this week that they will enforce that city's mandate passed last week, including charging violators with public nuisance counts."If someone has a complaint about someone not wearing a mask, they are to go to the business manager. That's the first step," Grand Island Police Capt. Jim Duering&nbsp;<a href="https://theindependent.com/news/local/police-will-respond-to-complaints-about-noncompliance-with-mask-mandate/article_0249e142-351e-11eb-8958-0f23e18314ff.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>the Grand Island Independent. "So we will respond if a business has already intervened and is not getting compliance."A surge in cases in recent weeks led Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-59bf8bc37bae54af2c407d33ffd641f3" target="_blank">reissue some statewide restrictions</a>, including requiring masks in certain businesses like salons and tattoo parlors. But Ricketts has refused to impose a statewide mask mandate, arguing that mandates breed resentment and may face resistance.More than a dozen Nebraska cities have adopted their own mask mandates, including some of the state's largest. That includes Omaha and many of its suburbs, Lincoln, Norfolk, Columbus, Hastings, Beatrice and Kearney.On Wednesday, the state reported 48 more coronavirus deaths and an additional 2,336 new coronavirus cases. That brought the state's total deaths to 1,128 and 132,530 cases since the pandemic began, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>.The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Wednesday to 853 from the previous day's 869. But the numbers remain well over the level seen two months earlier when 232 people were hospitalized. The state also reported dwindling hospital space to treat patients, with only 24% of the state's intensive care unit beds available on Wednesday.Nebraska continued to have the sixth-highest rate of infection in the nation on Wednesday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 2,296 new cases per day on Nov. 18 to more than 1,787 new cases per day on Wednesday.

Mask orders stay at forefront of virus outbreak in Nebraska

Scotty C talks with Emily and Taunie from the North Platte Community Build Playground organization.

Scotty C talks with Emily and Taunie from the North Platte Community Build Playground organization.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: North Platte Community Build playground" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ehvxy-f3f649?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607006392388.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Post Podcast: North Platte Community Build Playground

Governor Pete Ricketts announced recent appointments he has made to fill Nebraska’s boards and commissions.

The following appointees are unpaid and are not subject to Legislative confirmation:

Kody A. Moffatt, MD, MS, FAAP, FACSM, ATC, Omaha

Corn Development, Utilization &amp; Marketing Board

Nebraska Commission on Housing and Homelessness

Nebraska Commission on Latino-Americans

Commission for the Protection of Children

Early Childhood Interagency Coordinating Council

Riparian Vegetation Management Task Force

ServeNebraska – The Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission

The following appointees are unpaid and subject to Legislative confirmation:

Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission

Nebraska Environmental Trust Board

Nebraska Information Technology Commission

Nebraska Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board

Nebraska Natural Resources Commission

Thank you to the many Nebraskans that give generously of their time and talent to make a difference in our state.&nbsp; These appointments will provide crucial insight and expertise to their respective boards, committees, and commissions.&nbsp; To learn about openings and apply to serve on a board or commission, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>.

Governor Pete Ricketts announced recent appointments he has made to fill Nebraska’s boards and commissions.The following appointees are unpaid and are not subject to Legislative confirmation:Brain Injury Oversight CommitteeJeffrey Baker, MilfordAnna Cole, OmahaShauna L. Dahlgren, OmahaJoan (Joni) Dulaney, LincolnKevin Karmazin, LincolnKody A. Moffatt, MD, MS, FAAP, FACSM, ATC, OmahaPeggy Reisher, LincolnShirlene Smith, North PlatteNebraska Capitol CommissionTrent D. Loos,&nbsp; LitchfieldCorn Development, Utilization &amp; Marketing BoardJohn S. Greer, EdgarBrandon Hunnicutt, GiltnerNebraska Commission on Housing and HomelessnessNancy J. Bentley, GeringRandy McCoy, BellevueJudy R. Petersen, ChambersJohn S. Turner, LincolnNebraska Commission on Latino-AmericansAida Evans, HastingsJaime Suarez, OmahaProfessional Practice CommissionDouglas D. Dolezal, Ph.D., LincolnEric G. Malina, Ph.D., HickmanDebra S. Paulman, SutherlandCommission for the Protection of ChildrenJulia R. Keown, LincolnEarly Childhood Interagency Coordinating CouncilPaula Thompson, ScotiaMary Phillips, LincolnAmber Jara, LincolnRiparian Vegetation Management Task ForceZachery M. Peterson, ValentineServeNebraska – The Nebraska Volunteer Service CommissionClarence King, OmahaThe following appointees are unpaid and subject to Legislative confirmation:Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure CommissionKate Sullivan, Cedar RapidsNebraska Arts CouncilZachary Cheek, OmahaBrenda Davis, BeatriceAnn Michelle&nbsp;Dudley, NorfolkSharon (Shari) Hofschire, OmahaPamela Snow, AshlandBeginning Farmer BoardJohn E. Walvoord, WaterlooNebraska Environmental Trust BoardMark Quandahl, OmahaState Board of HealthTimothy A. Tesmer, M.D., LincolnState Highway CommissionAlec Gorynski, OmahaNebraska Information Technology CommissionShane J. Greckel, BloomfieldDaniel Spray, NorfolkNebraska Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing BoardBrad Jacobs, St. PaulClint Jones, GenoaMatthew O’Daniel, ArlingtonNebraska Natural Resources CommissionJoseph L. Citta, Jr., ColumbusStanley A. Clouse, KearneyBradley B. Dunbar, OmahaTimothy E. Krause, Mason CityThomas L. Knutson, St. PaulLeRoy W. Sievers, LincolnScott Smathers, LincolnThank you to the many Nebraskans that give generously of their time and talent to make a difference in our state.&nbsp; These appointments will provide crucial insight and expertise to their respective boards, committees, and commissions.&nbsp; To learn about openings and apply to serve on a board or commission, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces appointments to boards and commissions 

Kyle and Aaron from Brittany's Clothing in North Platte talk about their whiskey tasting coming up this Saturday, December 5.

Kyle and Aaron from Brittany's Clothing in North Platte talk about their whiskey tasting coming up this Saturday, December 5.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Brittany's Clothing to host Whiskey Tasting" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/x7vzv-f3f41c?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: Brittany's Clothing to host whiskey tasting

Joni Lloyd, President of the North Platte Community Playhouse Guild, and Guild members Rachelle Huebner and Connie Madison, presented a check in the amount of $1,000 to North Platte Community Playhouse Board President, Stuart Shepherd, from this year’s Christmas boutique and bake sale, Fall Into the Season with Gifts and Goodies.

Although this year’s annual fund-raiser, Carousel of Homes, was not able to take place, the Playhouse would like to express a heartfelt appreciation to all of those who supported the boutique and bake sale. &nbsp;

Playhouse representatives say many people were involved in the event by helping with set-up and clean-up, baking goodies, playing Holiday music on the piano, and purchasing items. &nbsp;

They thank the community for keeping The Arts alive in our wonderful community during this time of intermission for the Playhouse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606995831681.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joni Lloyd, President of the North Platte Community Playhouse Guild, and Guild members Rachelle Huebner and Connie Madison, presented a check in the amount of $1,000 to North Platte Community Playhouse Board President, Stuart Shepherd, from this year’s Christmas boutique and bake sale, Fall Into the Season with Gifts and Goodies. Although this year’s annual fund-raiser, Carousel of Homes, was not able to take place, the Playhouse would like to express a heartfelt appreciation to all of those who supported the boutique and bake sale. &nbsp;Playhouse representatives say many people were involved in the event by helping with set-up and clean-up, baking goodies, playing Holiday music on the piano, and purchasing items. &nbsp;They thank the community for keeping The Arts alive in our wonderful community during this time of intermission for the Playhouse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte Community Playhouse Guild bake sale raises $1,000 

Kyle and Jim from the Lincoln County Historical Museum talk about one of Lincoln County's favorite traditions, the drive-thru Christmas Village at the museum.

Kyle and Jim from the Lincoln County Historical Museum talk about one of Lincoln County's favorite traditions, the drive-thru Christmas Village at the museum.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Lincoln County Historical Museum's Christmas Village" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/5px6y-f3f425?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: Lincoln County Historical Museum's drive-thru Christmas Village

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, North Platte Public Schools (NPPS) is in need of additional substitute teachers for the 2020 – 2021 school year.

In&nbsp;late August, the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) released a statement relaxing substitute teacher requirements to allow schools to fill the substitute teacher shortages.&nbsp; These relaxed requirements are;

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An individual has filed an application with the NDE for a local substitute teaching permit at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.education.ne.gov/tcert" target="_blank">www.education.ne.gov/tcert</a>

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The individual has paid the fee for such a permit

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The individual has completed the NPPS Substitute Teacher application at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nppsd.org/" target="_blank">www.nppsd.org</a>

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The superintendent or local governing body of the school system or district has submitted the form indicating the desire to have the individual be employed as a substitute teacher in the district

Once these requirements are met, the district can employ the individual as a classroom substitute teacher while NDE is processing and issuing the permit to sub to the individual.

NPPS is currently hiring substitute teachers at a base pay of $130.00 - $ 200.00 per day.&nbsp; If you would like more information about becoming an NPPS substitute teacher, please contact Carol Halley, NPPS HR Administrative Assistant, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:challey@nppsd.org" target="_blank">challey@nppsd.org</a>&nbsp;or 308-696-3319.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, North Platte Public Schools (NPPS) is in need of additional substitute teachers for the 2020 – 2021 school year.In&nbsp;late August, the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) released a statement relaxing substitute teacher requirements to allow schools to fill the substitute teacher shortages.&nbsp; These relaxed requirements are;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An individual has filed an application with the NDE for a local substitute teaching permit at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.education.ne.gov/tcert" target="_blank">www.education.ne.gov/tcert</a>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The individual has paid the fee for such a permit3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The individual has completed the NPPS Substitute Teacher application at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nppsd.org/" target="_blank">www.nppsd.org</a>4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The superintendent or local governing body of the school system or district has submitted the form indicating the desire to have the individual be employed as a substitute teacher in the districtOnce these requirements are met, the district can employ the individual as a classroom substitute teacher while NDE is processing and issuing the permit to sub to the individual.NPPS is currently hiring substitute teachers at a base pay of $130.00 - $ 200.00 per day.&nbsp; If you would like more information about becoming an NPPS substitute teacher, please contact Carol Halley, NPPS HR Administrative Assistant, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:challey@nppsd.org" target="_blank">challey@nppsd.org</a>&nbsp;or 308-696-3319.

North Platte Public Schools in need of substitute teachers

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska could gets its first shipments of a coronavirus vaccine in less than two weeks if the proposed drug wins federal approval, but health care workers will be given first priority and the general public may not get access until April, state officials said Wednesday.

Gov. Pete Ricketts said the state tentatively expects to receive 15,600 doses of a vaccine produced by the drug manufacturer Pfizer the week of Dec. 13. Another 19,500 doses from the company are slated to arrive the following week, plus 32,100 doses from manufacturer Moderna if the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves that company's drug.

State officials are planning to receive more than 100,000 doses by the month's end. With roughly 34,000 medical personnel in the state as of 2018, according to a University of Nebraska Medical Center report, and each person requiring two vaccine doses taken several weeks apart, that would account for many of the doses the state expects to receive this month.

"Help is on the way," Ricketts said at a news conference to discuss the state's pandemic response.

Nebraska's distribution plan,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-public-health-seniors-pete-ricketts-health-4c3deff7d024a06e5e522f876c6bad3d" target="_blank">unveiled in October</a>, places health care workers at the front of the line for a vaccine once it becomes available.

Health care workers who will get the first doses include doctors, nurses, ancillary hospital workers and others who are often exposed to coronavirus patients, said Angie Ling, incident commander for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Elderly and vulnerable residents will also get priority.

Ling said more residents will qualify for a vaccinations as the supply grows, but "it's vitally important that those on the front lines of the pandemic stay as healthy as possible."

A surge in cases over the last month is putting a huge strain on health care providers, and Ricketts has warned that he will impose tighter social-distancing restrictions if available hospital capacity continues to drop.

The state's vaccine distribution plan was developed because it's likely to take months to produce and distribute enough of the vaccine for everyone.

Moderna has said its vaccine appears to be 94.5% effective, while Pfizer reported that its version looks to be 90% effective.

Meanwhile, the state reported 62 more coronavirus deaths on Tuesday and nearly 2,000 more cases of COVID-19.

The state confirmed 1,080 deaths and 1,787 new virus cases, for a total of 130,194 cases of the virus since the pandemic began.

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

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

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

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska could gets its first shipments of a coronavirus vaccine in less than two weeks if the proposed drug wins federal approval, but health care workers will be given first priority and the general public may not get access until April, state officials said Wednesday.Gov. Pete Ricketts said the state tentatively expects to receive 15,600 doses of a vaccine produced by the drug manufacturer Pfizer the week of Dec. 13. Another 19,500 doses from the company are slated to arrive the following week, plus 32,100 doses from manufacturer Moderna if the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves that company's drug.State officials are planning to receive more than 100,000 doses by the month's end. With roughly 34,000 medical personnel in the state as of 2018, according to a University of Nebraska Medical Center report, and each person requiring two vaccine doses taken several weeks apart, that would account for many of the doses the state expects to receive this month."Help is on the way," Ricketts said at a news conference to discuss the state's pandemic response.Nebraska's distribution plan,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-public-health-seniors-pete-ricketts-health-4c3deff7d024a06e5e522f876c6bad3d" target="_blank">unveiled in October</a>, places health care workers at the front of the line for a vaccine once it becomes available.Health care workers who will get the first doses include doctors, nurses, ancillary hospital workers and others who are often exposed to coronavirus patients, said Angie Ling, incident commander for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Elderly and vulnerable residents will also get priority.Ling said more residents will qualify for a vaccinations as the supply grows, but "it's vitally important that those on the front lines of the pandemic stay as healthy as possible."A surge in cases over the last month is putting a huge strain on health care providers, and Ricketts has warned that he will impose tighter social-distancing restrictions if available hospital capacity continues to drop.The state's vaccine distribution plan was developed because it's likely to take months to produce and distribute enough of the vaccine for everyone.Moderna has said its vaccine appears to be 94.5% effective, while Pfizer reported that its version looks to be 90% effective.Meanwhile, the state reported 62 more coronavirus deaths on Tuesday and nearly 2,000 more cases of COVID-19.The state confirmed 1,080 deaths and 1,787 new virus cases, for a total of 130,194 cases of the virus since the pandemic began.The number of people hospitalized with the virus declined again Tuesday to 869 from the previous day's 907. That total is now more than 100 people lower than the record of 987 that was set on Nov. 20, but it remains nearly four times higher than the level it was at two months ago when 232 people were hospitalized.Nebraska continued to have the sixth-highest rate of infection in the nation on Tuesday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 2,292.86 new cases per day on Nov. 17 to 1,783.71 new cases per day on Tuesday.

Nebraska could get first virus vaccine doses mid-December

Two North Platte men are in jail, accused of breaking into vehicles as well as weapons charges

According to North Platte police, on December 2 at 12:32 a.m., officers were called to the 500 Block of North Pacific Street on the report of subjects breaking into vehicles.

Police say upon arrival, Officers observed a vehicle leaving the area. Additionally, Officers observed that the occupants in the vehicle matched the description of the suspects given by witnesses. 

Police say officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and, while the traffic stop was being initiated, officers observed a passenger discarding items out of the window. 

According to police, officers made contact with multiple subjects, including 20-year-old Emilio Vera and 18-year-old Lukas Hartmann.  

Police say officers observed a large amount of property in the vehicle, as well as evidence of broken glass inside the vehicle and on the occupants.  

During the investigation, police say officers were able to establish probable cause and Vera and Hartmann were placed under arrest. 

 Officers located a stolen firearm in the vehicle among the stolen property that was recovered. 

 Hartmann was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of theft, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, and possession of a stolen firearm. 

 Vera was incarcerated on suspicion of possession of a stolen firearm, theft, and tampering with physical evidence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606966062938.jpeg" alt="Emilio Vera" />
 <figcaption>Emilio Vera</figcaption>
 </figure>Two North Platte men are in jail, accused of breaking into vehicles as well as weapons chargesAccording to North Platte police, on December 2 at 12:32 a.m., officers were called to the 500 Block of North Pacific Street on the report of subjects breaking into vehicles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606966082330.jpeg" alt="Lukas Vieyra-Hartmann" />
 <figcaption>Lukas Vieyra-Hartmann</figcaption>
 </figure>Police say upon arrival, Officers observed a vehicle leaving the area. Additionally, Officers observed that the occupants in the vehicle matched the description of the suspects given by witnesses. Police say officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and, while the traffic stop was being initiated, officers observed a passenger discarding items out of the window. According to police, officers made contact with multiple subjects, including 20-year-old Emilio Vera and 18-year-old Lukas Hartmann. Police say officers observed a large amount of property in the vehicle, as well as evidence of broken glass inside the vehicle and on the occupants. During the investigation, police say officers were able to establish probable cause and Vera and Hartmann were placed under arrest. Officers located a stolen firearm in the vehicle among the stolen property that was recovered. Hartmann was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of theft, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, and possession of a stolen firearm. Vera was incarcerated on suspicion of possession of a stolen firearm, theft, and tampering with physical evidence.

2 North Platte men accused of theft, possessing stolen firearm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Platte man accused of multiple thefts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nurses wanted: Swamped hospitals scramble for pandemic help

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Smith was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lincoln County man accused of kidnappng ex-girlfriend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ACLU agrees to drop lawsuit against Nebraska's prison system

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ogallala business donates to North Platte Community College

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COLUMN Gov. Ricketts: Staying healthy for the Holidays

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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