NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-After a weekend and some technical difficulties, confirmed cases of COVID-19 climbed in North Platte on Tuesday.

The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported 79 new cases of the virus in their jurisdiction.

WCDHD says 75 cases are from Lincoln County, two cases are from Hooker County and two cases are from Logan County. 

 According to officials, the data being reported is from lab results received on: 10/17/2020, 10/18/2020, 10/19/2020 and 10/20/2020. WCDHD does not update the dashboard on the weekends and had technical difficulties yesterday.

For more information regarding these cases and others within the WCDHD jurisdiction, please visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation?:language=en&amp;:display_count=y&amp;publish=yes&amp;:origin=viz_share_link">dashboard</a>.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-After a weekend and some technical difficulties, confirmed cases of COVID-19 climbed in North Platte on Tuesday.The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported 79 new cases of the virus in their jurisdiction.WCDHD says 75 cases are from Lincoln County, two cases are from Hooker County and two cases are from Logan County. According to officials, the data being reported is from lab results received on: 10/17/2020, 10/18/2020, 10/19/2020 and 10/20/2020. WCDHD does not update the dashboard on the weekends and had technical difficulties yesterday.For more information regarding these cases and others within the WCDHD jurisdiction, please visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation?:language=en&amp;:display_count=y&amp;publish=yes&amp;:origin=viz_share_link">dashboard</a>.

79 new cases of COVID-19 reported in WCDHD jurisdiction Tuesday

10.20.2020 NPHS Volleyball vs Ogallala - LIVESTREAM

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A transient woman has been accused of striking an employee at a local store after being accused of stealing.

According to North Platte Police, on October 19 at 10:15 AM, officers responded to a theft and assault complaint at the Dollar Tree, 201 East Leota Street. 

Investigator John Deal says officers met with an employee who reported they saw a female in the store place several items into bags and then attempt to leave the store without paying. 

Police say the employee spoke with the suspect about her attempting to steal when the suspect struck the employee with one of the full bags and ran away.  The employee suffered pain to their arm but no significant injury, according to police. 

Investigator Deals says a description of the suspect was provided and Emily Kovachy was located in the foyer at Walmart, 1401 South Dewey Street. 

Police say Kovachy matched the description given and had a stolen hat in her possession that was determined to have been taken from Time Saver, 1200 S Dewey.  The items stolen from the Dollar Tree were abandoned in the parking lot and recovered. 

 Kovachy was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of assault and theft. 

Police say Kovachy is listed as homeless and has no ties to the community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603192067620.jpeg" alt="Emily Kovachy" />
 <figcaption>Emily Kovachy</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A transient woman has been accused of striking an employee at a local store after being accused of stealing.According to North Platte Police, on October 19 at 10:15 AM, officers responded to a theft and assault complaint at the Dollar Tree, 201 East Leota Street. Investigator John Deal says officers met with an employee who reported they saw a female in the store place several items into bags and then attempt to leave the store without paying. Police say the employee spoke with the suspect about her attempting to steal when the suspect struck the employee with one of the full bags and ran away. The employee suffered pain to their arm but no significant injury, according to police. Investigator Deals says a description of the suspect was provided and Emily Kovachy was located in the foyer at Walmart, 1401 South Dewey Street. Police say Kovachy matched the description given and had a stolen hat in her possession that was determined to have been taken from Time Saver, 1200 S Dewey. The items stolen from the Dollar Tree were abandoned in the parking lot and recovered. Kovachy was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of assault and theft. Police say Kovachy is listed as homeless and has no ties to the community.

Woman accused of striking NP Dollar Tree employee with bag of stolen goods

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a man following the report of a driver pointing a firearm at another driver on Interstate 80.

The incident occurred on Interstate 80 in Keith County at approximately 12:05 a.m. Tuesday. The driver of a semi-tractor/cattle trailer reported a road rage incident in which the driver of a Ford pickup pointed a handgun at him.

Troopers were able to locate the suspect vehicle and perform a traffic stop near mile marker 164. During the traffic stop, troopers located a handgun inside the vehicle.

The driver, Victor Troches Reyes, 39, of Kansas City, Missouri, was arrested for making terroristic threats, carrying a concealed weapon, and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony. He was lodged in Keith County Jail.

The Lexington Police Department assisted in this operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a man following the report of a driver pointing a firearm at another driver on Interstate 80.The incident occurred on Interstate 80 in Keith County at approximately 12:05 a.m. Tuesday. The driver of a semi-tractor/cattle trailer reported a road rage incident in which the driver of a Ford pickup pointed a handgun at him.Troopers were able to locate the suspect vehicle and perform a traffic stop near mile marker 164. During the traffic stop, troopers located a handgun inside the vehicle.The driver, Victor Troches Reyes, 39, of Kansas City, Missouri, was arrested for making terroristic threats, carrying a concealed weapon, and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony. He was lodged in Keith County Jail.The Lexington Police Department assisted in this operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Keith County road rage incident leads to Missouri man's arrest 

HERSHEY, Neb.-An Ogallala man was cited for driving under the influence following a one-vehicle crash in Hershey.

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office (LCSO),&nbsp; on October 20,&nbsp; at 1:55 a.m., the Lincoln County 911 Center received a report of a potential rollover accident on the Link 56 C overpass.

Deputies and first responders arrived and identified the lone driver of the vehicle as twenty-one-year-old Lyle Harms.   

LCSO says Harms advised he was southbound on Link 56 C and struck the curb, this caused him to overcorrect and leave the roadway, rolling several times.  Evidence at the scene supported Harm’s story.&nbsp;

Deputies say&nbsp;Harms refused medical treatment at the scene and showed signs of alcohol impairment and was subsequently tested.  

As a result fo the test, LCSO says Harms was arrested and taken to the Lincoln County Detention Center. 

LCSO says because of potential injuries from the accident, Harms could not be housed at the jail and deputies took him to Great Plains Health, 

After receiving treatment, Harms was issued a citation for driving under the influence and released, according to LCSO.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603219545459.png" alt="LCSO photo" />
 <figcaption>LCSO photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HERSHEY, Neb.-An Ogallala man was cited for driving under the influence following a one-vehicle crash in Hershey.According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office (LCSO),&nbsp; on October 20,&nbsp; at 1:55 a.m., the Lincoln County 911 Center received a report of a potential rollover accident on the Link 56 C overpass.Deputies and first responders arrived and identified the lone driver of the vehicle as twenty-one-year-old Lyle Harms. LCSO says Harms advised he was southbound on Link 56 C and struck the curb, this caused him to overcorrect and leave the roadway, rolling several times. Evidence at the scene supported Harm’s story.&nbsp;Deputies say&nbsp;Harms refused medical treatment at the scene and showed signs of alcohol impairment and was subsequently tested. As a result fo the test, LCSO says Harms was arrested and taken to the Lincoln County Detention Center. LCSO says because of potential injuries from the accident, Harms could not be housed at the jail and deputies took him to Great Plains Health, After receiving treatment, Harms was issued a citation for driving under the influence and released, according to LCSO.

Ogallala man cited for DUI following crash in Hershey

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two men accused in the killings of two people during a violent home invasion robbery in Lincoln last year have entered pleas to reduced charges in the case, prosecutors said.

Jesse Foster, 23, pleaded no contest Monday to conspiracy to commit robbery, and Sylvester LeBlanc Jr., 26, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/2-charged-in-connection-to-lincoln-double-killing-in-2019-enter-pleas/article_612a618b-780b-5e81-a037-6cbcf56e1ce8.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. Both had previously been charged with first-degree murder in the July 2019 deaths of 34-year-old Audrea Craig and 26-year-old Martae Green.

Police have said Craig was found shot to death in her home following a break-in there by several men. Minutes later, Green was dropped off at a hospital with a gunshot wound and later died. Police said Green was among those who forced their way into Craig's home and that Craig fatally shot Green.

Foster and LeBlanc are set to be sentenced in February. Two other men remain charged with first-degree murder in the case: Green's brother, Charles Gresham III, 20, of Omaha, and Rubin Thomas, 30, of Lincoln. If convicted, they face mandatory life sentences.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603214333295.png" alt="Jesse Foster" />
 <figcaption>Jesse Foster</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two men accused in the killings of two people during a violent home invasion robbery in Lincoln last year have entered pleas to reduced charges in the case, prosecutors said.Jesse Foster, 23, pleaded no contest Monday to conspiracy to commit robbery, and Sylvester LeBlanc Jr., 26, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/2-charged-in-connection-to-lincoln-double-killing-in-2019-enter-pleas/article_612a618b-780b-5e81-a037-6cbcf56e1ce8.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. Both had previously been charged with first-degree murder in the July 2019 deaths of 34-year-old Audrea Craig and 26-year-old Martae Green.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603214359070.png" alt="Sylvester LeBlanc" />
 <figcaption>Sylvester LeBlanc</figcaption>
 </figure>Police have said Craig was found shot to death in her home following a break-in there by several men. Minutes later, Green was dropped off at a hospital with a gunshot wound and later died. Police said Green was among those who forced their way into Craig's home and that Craig fatally shot Green.Foster and LeBlanc are set to be sentenced in February. Two other men remain charged with first-degree murder in the case: Green's brother, Charles Gresham III, 20, of Omaha, and Rubin Thomas, 30, of Lincoln. If convicted, they face mandatory life sentences.

2 accused in home invasion killings plead to reduced charges

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska regained its status last month as the state with the nation's lowest unemployment rate, according to federal data released Tuesday.

Nebraska's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 3.5%, compared to 4% in August. That's less than half the national rate of 7.9%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. South Dakota and Vermont had the second- and third-lowest rates at 4.1% and 4.2% respectively.

Hawaii had the highest rate nationwide, at 15.1%.

Nebraska's rate has remained low compared to other states despite the coronavirus pandemic, which resulted in widespread business closures and layoffs.

The unemployment rate was slightly higher in the Omaha area, which fell to 3.8% from 4.6% in August. It was also lower in Grand Island, which had 4.1% unemployment in September compared to 4.9% in August. Lincoln's unemployment was lower than the statewide percentage, with 3.2% last month compared to 3.8% in August.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska regained its status last month as the state with the nation's lowest unemployment rate, according to federal data released Tuesday.Nebraska's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 3.5%, compared to 4% in August. That's less than half the national rate of 7.9%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. South Dakota and Vermont had the second- and third-lowest rates at 4.1% and 4.2% respectively.Hawaii had the highest rate nationwide, at 15.1%.Nebraska's rate has remained low compared to other states despite the coronavirus pandemic, which resulted in widespread business closures and layoffs.The unemployment rate was slightly higher in the Omaha area, which fell to 3.8% from 4.6% in August. It was also lower in Grand Island, which had 4.1% unemployment in September compared to 4.9% in August. Lincoln's unemployment was lower than the statewide percentage, with 3.2% last month compared to 3.8% in August.

Nebraska reclaimed lowest unemployment rate in September

LINCOLN, Neb. – As the weather turns cooler, Nebraskans are urged to check boats, boat lifts and docks for invasive species when removing them from water bodies for the winter.

Damaging aquatic hitchhikers like zebra mussels can live up to two weeks out of water, and several lakes across the Midwest are first noticed to be infested by people removing boats, lifts and docks for the winter.

Young zebra mussels – or veligers – are invisible to the naked eye and can be spread through drops of water left undrained. All boat lifts and docks should remain out of the water and dried for 21 days before placing them into another water body.

A zebra mussel is a highly invasive aquatic species that looks like a D-shaped clam, with alternating light and dark bands. Most zebra mussels are less than an inch long. They form dense colonies and filter large quantities of plankton from water, decreasing the food supply for native species. In addition, these mussels pollute swimming areas with sharp shells and clog water intake pipes.

The Missouri River has an existing zebra mussel population along its entire length downstream of Gavins Point Dam. Lewis and Clark Lake, Lake Yankton and the Offutt Base Lake are the only other confirmed Nebraska waters that have established zebra mussel populations.

“Once established, zebra mussels are almost impossible to remove or control, so prevention is the best tool we have to protect Nebraska’s water bodies,” said Kristopher Stahr, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission aquatic invasive species program manager. “We need the public’s help to ensure that the lakes and rivers we all enjoy remain free of invasive species.”

Game and Parks regulations require anglers, hunters and boaters conduct clean, drain and dry procedures before leaving a water body and are not allowed to arrive at a water body with any water from another water body. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjAuMjkwNDMxNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3N0b3BhcXVhdGljaGl0Y2hoaWtlcnMub3JnLyJ9.lqbNzQSnoPq4AGyZvfhMHplNK2AGfqu4qS5VJbHSAsA/s/497221905/br/87129899030-l" target="_blank">stopaquatichitchhikers.org</a>&nbsp;for details and for more information on aquatic invasive species.

Report any suspected observation of zebra mussels or other aquatic invasive species to Game and Parks at 531-500-3746 or at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjAuMjkwNDMxNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbmVpbnZhc2l2ZXMuY29tLyJ9.7E_oztu7qQR5WNOoaoFbZte_9GjYiTMg1UPiT2xN97I/s/497221905/br/87129899030-l" target="_blank">neinvasives.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603208651673.png" alt="Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Bj.schoenmakers">Bj.schoenmakers</a>&nbsp;(Wikimedia Creative Commons)" />
 <figcaption>Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Bj.schoenmakers">Bj.schoenmakers</a>&nbsp;(Wikimedia Creative Commons)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – As the weather turns cooler, Nebraskans are urged to check boats, boat lifts and docks for invasive species when removing them from water bodies for the winter.Damaging aquatic hitchhikers like zebra mussels can live up to two weeks out of water, and several lakes across the Midwest are first noticed to be infested by people removing boats, lifts and docks for the winter.Young zebra mussels – or veligers – are invisible to the naked eye and can be spread through drops of water left undrained. All boat lifts and docks should remain out of the water and dried for 21 days before placing them into another water body.A zebra mussel is a highly invasive aquatic species that looks like a D-shaped clam, with alternating light and dark bands. Most zebra mussels are less than an inch long. They form dense colonies and filter large quantities of plankton from water, decreasing the food supply for native species. In addition, these mussels pollute swimming areas with sharp shells and clog water intake pipes.The Missouri River has an existing zebra mussel population along its entire length downstream of Gavins Point Dam. Lewis and Clark Lake, Lake Yankton and the Offutt Base Lake are the only other confirmed Nebraska waters that have established zebra mussel populations.“Once established, zebra mussels are almost impossible to remove or control, so prevention is the best tool we have to protect Nebraska’s water bodies,” said Kristopher Stahr, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission aquatic invasive species program manager. “We need the public’s help to ensure that the lakes and rivers we all enjoy remain free of invasive species.”Game and Parks regulations require anglers, hunters and boaters conduct clean, drain and dry procedures before leaving a water body and are not allowed to arrive at a water body with any water from another water body. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjAuMjkwNDMxNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3N0b3BhcXVhdGljaGl0Y2hoaWtlcnMub3JnLyJ9.lqbNzQSnoPq4AGyZvfhMHplNK2AGfqu4qS5VJbHSAsA/s/497221905/br/87129899030-l" target="_blank">stopaquatichitchhikers.org</a>&nbsp;for details and for more information on aquatic invasive species.Report any suspected observation of zebra mussels or other aquatic invasive species to Game and Parks at 531-500-3746 or at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjAuMjkwNDMxNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbmVpbnZhc2l2ZXMuY29tLyJ9.7E_oztu7qQR5WNOoaoFbZte_9GjYiTMg1UPiT2xN97I/s/497221905/br/87129899030-l" target="_blank">neinvasives.com</a>.

Game and Parks: Check boats, lifts, and docks for invasive aquatic hitchhikers as weather cools

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska continues to report record numbers of people hospitalized with the coronavirus, and another inmate who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 has died.

The state said the number of people hospitalized with the virus jumped to 380 on Monday and eclipsed the previous day's record of 343. The new record is 64% higher than the spring peak of 232 set on May 27, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online virus tracker</a>.

But Nebraska officials say 37% of the state's 578 intensive care beds remain available, so it appears that hospitals have the capacity to handle the recent surge.

Nebraska has the fifth-highest rate of new virus cases in the nation. The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks reached 547.25 on Monday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.

Nebraska reported 749 new cases of the virus and six new deaths Monday to give the state 58,817 cases and 554 deaths linked to COVID-19.

The state Corrections Department said an inmate in his 60s died Sunday - three weeks after testing positive for the coronavirus. He is the second inmate to die after being diagnosed with COVID-19 although officials said he had other health problems.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603208337310.png" alt="Photo: <a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/search/hospital%20bed/">pixabay.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo: <a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/search/hospital%20bed/">pixabay.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska continues to report record numbers of people hospitalized with the coronavirus, and another inmate who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 has died.The state said the number of people hospitalized with the virus jumped to 380 on Monday and eclipsed the previous day's record of 343. The new record is 64% higher than the spring peak of 232 set on May 27, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online virus tracker</a>.But Nebraska officials say 37% of the state's 578 intensive care beds remain available, so it appears that hospitals have the capacity to handle the recent surge.Nebraska has the fifth-highest rate of new virus cases in the nation. The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks reached 547.25 on Monday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.Nebraska reported 749 new cases of the virus and six new deaths Monday to give the state 58,817 cases and 554 deaths linked to COVID-19.The state Corrections Department said an inmate in his 60s died Sunday - three weeks after testing positive for the coronavirus. He is the second inmate to die after being diagnosed with COVID-19 although officials said he had other health problems.

Nebraska sets another new record in virus hospitalizations

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A coronavirus outbreak has killed 10 residents in a nursing home in a northwestern Kansas county that proportionally already had the nation’s largest increase in cases over two weeks.

The health department in Norton County reported Monday night that all 62 residents and an unspecified number of employees at the Andbe Home in Norton had tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The agency also said one Andbe Home resident was hospitalized, while the remaining 51 were being treated at the home.

“Steps are being taken to prevent any further outbreak, including quarantining residents in their rooms and not allowing outside visitors into the facility,” the county health department said in a statement Monday evening.

The outbreak at the nursing home came after the state Department of Health and Environment last week reported more than 100 cases at the state’s prison in Norton over the two weeks ending Wednesday.

Kansas is seeing an average of more than 700 new confirmed and probable coronavirus cases a day, its largest numbers since the pandemic reached the state in early March.

But northwestern Kansas has been hit hard by coronavirus in recent weeks, and Norton County had the largest number of new cases per 100,000 residents of any county in the U.S. for the two weeks ending Sunday, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://covid-hub.inside.ap.org/" target="_blank">data collected by Johns Hopkins University.</a>

The Kansas health department said that cases in Norton County rose from 46 two weeks ago to 340 as of Monday in Norton County. With about 5,400 residents, that was an increase of 5,484 cases per 100,000 residents, according to the state’s figures.

But the state released its report before Norton County officials confirmed that all Andbe Home residents had tested positive for coronavirus and before local officials reported 10 deaths at the home.

The 15 counties in the state’s northwest corner together had 987 new coronavirus cases during the past two weeks, an increase of nearly 49%, to bring the total to 3,024, according to state health department data. With 80,000 people living in the region, the increase was 1,226 cases for every 100,000 residents, more than three times the state’s figure.

Two other northwest Kansas counties, Sheridan and Gove, also were among the top 20 counties in the nation for the largest proportional increases in cases for the two weeks ending Sunday, based on Johns Hopkins data.

The state health department reported Monday that Kansas had 2,113 new confirmed and probable coronavirus cases since Friday, an increase of 3% that brought the pandemic total to 72,968. The department also reported 13 additional COVID-19-related deaths, bringing the total to 872 before the nursing home deaths in Norton were reported.

Kansas had an average of 729 new cases a day for the seven days ending Monday after first exceeding 700 cases a day for the seven days ending Oct. 12. The record is 743 cases for the seven days ending Wednesday.

The state on Monday also reported its first COVID-19-related staff death at one of its four hospitals for the mentally ill or the developmentally disabled.

The Department for Aging and Disability Services, which oversees the hospitals, said an employee at the state’s mental hospital in Larned in southwestern Kansas died last week but said the staffer had not been on hospital grounds for several weeks. The department did not identify the staffer.

In Olathe in the Kansas City area, a middle school classroom assistant died from COVID-19-related complications,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/news/local_news/olathe-teacher-dies-after-battle-with-covid-19-shortly-before-students-headed-back-to-class/article_6b0528d0-1238-11eb-966c-ab3fce83f95f.html?block_id=991162" target="_blank">KCTV reported.</a>&nbsp;Mission Trail Middle School’s principal said in an email to parents that the staffer had been sick for several weeks and had not been in the building since Sept. 24.

Meanwhile, Gov. Laura Kelly and Wichita State University officials celebrated the opening of a new laboratory that can run 32,000 coronavirus testing specimens a week. Kansas has averaged about 29,000 tests a week over the past month, according to data from the state health department.

Kelly said the high-capacity lab will help the state identify coronavirus hot spots so that its residents can avoid them.

“We can help provide certainty that our schools and our businesses can stay open safely,” Kelly said in a statement.

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A coronavirus outbreak has killed 10 residents in a nursing home in a northwestern Kansas county that proportionally already had the nation’s largest increase in cases over two weeks.The health department in Norton County reported Monday night that all 62 residents and an unspecified number of employees at the Andbe Home in Norton had tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The agency also said one Andbe Home resident was hospitalized, while the remaining 51 were being treated at the home.“Steps are being taken to prevent any further outbreak, including quarantining residents in their rooms and not allowing outside visitors into the facility,” the county health department said in a statement Monday evening.The outbreak at the nursing home came after the state Department of Health and Environment last week reported more than 100 cases at the state’s prison in Norton over the two weeks ending Wednesday.Kansas is seeing an average of more than 700 new confirmed and probable coronavirus cases a day, its largest numbers since the pandemic reached the state in early March.But northwestern Kansas has been hit hard by coronavirus in recent weeks, and Norton County had the largest number of new cases per 100,000 residents of any county in the U.S. for the two weeks ending Sunday, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://covid-hub.inside.ap.org/" target="_blank">data collected by Johns Hopkins University.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603128527249.png" alt="Monday Oct. 19,2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday Oct. 19,2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas health department said that cases in Norton County rose from 46 two weeks ago to 340 as of Monday in Norton County. With about 5,400 residents, that was an increase of 5,484 cases per 100,000 residents, according to the state’s figures.But the state released its report before Norton County officials confirmed that all Andbe Home residents had tested positive for coronavirus and before local officials reported 10 deaths at the home.The 15 counties in the state’s northwest corner together had 987 new coronavirus cases during the past two weeks, an increase of nearly 49%, to bring the total to 3,024, according to state health department data. With 80,000 people living in the region, the increase was 1,226 cases for every 100,000 residents, more than three times the state’s figure.Two other northwest Kansas counties, Sheridan and Gove, also were among the top 20 counties in the nation for the largest proportional increases in cases for the two weeks ending Sunday, based on Johns Hopkins data.The state health department reported Monday that Kansas had 2,113 new confirmed and probable coronavirus cases since Friday, an increase of 3% that brought the pandemic total to 72,968. The department also reported 13 additional COVID-19-related deaths, bringing the total to 872 before the nursing home deaths in Norton were reported.Kansas had an average of 729 new cases a day for the seven days ending Monday after first exceeding 700 cases a day for the seven days ending Oct. 12. The record is 743 cases for the seven days ending Wednesday.The state on Monday also reported its first COVID-19-related staff death at one of its four hospitals for the mentally ill or the developmentally disabled.The Department for Aging and Disability Services, which oversees the hospitals, said an employee at the state’s mental hospital in Larned in southwestern Kansas died last week but said the staffer had not been on hospital grounds for several weeks. The department did not identify the staffer.In Olathe in the Kansas City area, a middle school classroom assistant died from COVID-19-related complications,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/news/local_news/olathe-teacher-dies-after-battle-with-covid-19-shortly-before-students-headed-back-to-class/article_6b0528d0-1238-11eb-966c-ab3fce83f95f.html?block_id=991162" target="_blank">KCTV reported.</a>&nbsp;Mission Trail Middle School’s principal said in an email to parents that the staffer had been sick for several weeks and had not been in the building since Sept. 24.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603127838980.png" alt="WSU unveiled their new molecular diagnostic lab Monday. This high-volume testing center is the latest in innovative solutions from Kansas colleges that will play a significant role in our continued fight to mitigate the spread of COVID-19." />
 <figcaption>WSU unveiled their new molecular diagnostic lab Monday. This high-volume testing center is the latest in innovative solutions from Kansas colleges that will play a significant role in our continued fight to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.</figcaption>
 </figure>Meanwhile, Gov. Laura Kelly and Wichita State University officials celebrated the opening of a new laboratory that can run 32,000 coronavirus testing specimens a week. Kansas has averaged about 29,000 tests a week over the past month, according to data from the state health department.Kelly said the high-capacity lab will help the state identify coronavirus hot spots so that its residents can avoid them.“We can help provide certainty that our schools and our businesses can stay open safely,” Kelly said in a statement.

10 residents dead amid virus outbreak at NW Kan. nursing home

LINCOLN, Neb. – Deer are more active this time of the fall. Crops are being harvested and deer breeding season is in full swing. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has suggestions to help drivers avoid deer-vehicle accidents and lessen the risk of injury or vehicle damage.

• During the breeding season, bucks become more active searching for does with which to breed. Bucks are bolder, less wary and more susceptible to collisions with vehicles. Deer movement peaks each day near dawn and dusk.

• Anticipate the possibility of a deer on the road and plan how to avoid a collision. Be prepared to stop suddenly, but braking too sharply or swerving may cause you to lose control and roll your vehicle.

• When driving near shelterbelts, woodlots or creeks, especially during evening or early morning, slow down and watch for deer. Keep your headlights on bright if there is no approaching traffic.

• When you spot a deer, assume there will be others in the same area.

• Deer often seem to be disoriented or confused by headlights. Some react by freezing in the light, some dart into the path of the vehicle and others bolt away. Honk your horn and flash your headlights to frighten deer away. If there is other traffic on the road, activate your emergency flashers and tap your brakes to alert other drivers to the potential danger.

• Many places where deer-vehicle collisions occur are posted with deer crossing signs.

• If a deer is struck, the driver may take possession of it but must contact a Game and Parks conservation officer within 24 hours to obtain a salvage tag. View conservation officer phone numbers at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5NzcwOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb25zZXJ2YXRpb25vZmZpY2Vycy8ifQ.A7phfrWjkPOxXlRWLdtAoZ0bo9sYg1OQxPxrv9Oddy8/s/497221905/br/87088833825-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/ConservationOfficers</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559644784556.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Deer are more active this time of the fall. Crops are being harvested and deer breeding season is in full swing. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has suggestions to help drivers avoid deer-vehicle accidents and lessen the risk of injury or vehicle damage.• During the breeding season, bucks become more active searching for does with which to breed. Bucks are bolder, less wary and more susceptible to collisions with vehicles. Deer movement peaks each day near dawn and dusk.• Anticipate the possibility of a deer on the road and plan how to avoid a collision. Be prepared to stop suddenly, but braking too sharply or swerving may cause you to lose control and roll your vehicle.• Wear your seat belt.• When driving near shelterbelts, woodlots or creeks, especially during evening or early morning, slow down and watch for deer. Keep your headlights on bright if there is no approaching traffic.• When you spot a deer, assume there will be others in the same area.• Deer often seem to be disoriented or confused by headlights. Some react by freezing in the light, some dart into the path of the vehicle and others bolt away. Honk your horn and flash your headlights to frighten deer away. If there is other traffic on the road, activate your emergency flashers and tap your brakes to alert other drivers to the potential danger.• Many places where deer-vehicle collisions occur are posted with deer crossing signs.• If a deer is struck, the driver may take possession of it but must contact a Game and Parks conservation officer within 24 hours to obtain a salvage tag. View conservation officer phone numbers at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5NzcwOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb25zZXJ2YXRpb25vZmZpY2Vycy8ifQ.A7phfrWjkPOxXlRWLdtAoZ0bo9sYg1OQxPxrv9Oddy8/s/497221905/br/87088833825-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/ConservationOfficers</a>.

Nebraska motorists urged to use caution to avoid collisions with deer

LINCOLN, Neb. – Fort Kearny State Recreation Area campground is getting an electrical upgrade, causing potential modern campsite closures through November.

The update is being made to 26 non-electrical sites so each will be available for 50- , 30- and 20-amp service. The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of November.

Fort Kearny has 120 camping pads, which are a mix of electric and non-electric sites. Half of the sites are available for reservation while the others are first-come, first-served.

An entry permit is required for each vehicle entering the park and can be purchased at the park office or at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5OTEyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.9TMVFd05WgTe3fErDWdWx3rRD17nJv8PUHgKxyHZPqM/s/497221905/br/87099565563-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. For campsite availability, check the website or call the park at 308-865-5305.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603140580502.png" alt="Photo: outdoornebraska.gov" />
 <figcaption>Photo: outdoornebraska.gov</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Fort Kearny State Recreation Area campground is getting an electrical upgrade, causing potential modern campsite closures through November.The update is being made to 26 non-electrical sites so each will be available for 50- , 30- and 20-amp service. The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of November.Fort Kearny has 120 camping pads, which are a mix of electric and non-electric sites. Half of the sites are available for reservation while the others are first-come, first-served.An entry permit is required for each vehicle entering the park and can be purchased at the park office or at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5OTEyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.9TMVFd05WgTe3fErDWdWx3rRD17nJv8PUHgKxyHZPqM/s/497221905/br/87099565563-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. For campsite availability, check the website or call the park at 308-865-5305.

Campground upgrade scheduled for Fort Kearny SRA

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Weather permitting, work will continue on US-83 in North Platte, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. 

Watts Electric Company, of Waverly, Nebraska, has the contract. Work includes traffic signal upgrades. On Tuesday, October 20 and Wednesday, October 21, new controllers will be installed at the intersections of Francis and Jeffers, Francis and Dewey, Williams and Dewey, and E and Dewey. Traffic will be maintained with temporary traffic control signs and flaggers. The anticipated completion is November 2020. 

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down. 

NDOT News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Weather permitting, work will continue on US-83 in North Platte, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. Watts Electric Company, of Waverly, Nebraska, has the contract. Work includes traffic signal upgrades. On Tuesday, October 20 and Wednesday, October 21, new controllers will be installed at the intersections of Francis and Jeffers, Francis and Dewey, Williams and Dewey, and E and Dewey. Traffic will be maintained with temporary traffic control signs and flaggers. The anticipated completion is November 2020. Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down.

Work to continue on Highway 83 in North Platte

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska will reopen a series of federally funded grant programs to help small businesses and nonprofits that are struggling due to the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Monday.

Nebraska still has $160 million available from the $1 billion it received under the federal CARES Act, the package designed to soften the pandemic's impact on the economy. The state will&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Home" target="_blank">accept applications</a>&nbsp;for assistance from 10 a.m. Wednesday until Nov. 13 on a first-come, first-served basis.

The newest round of grants will include aid targeting some of the hardest-hit businesses, including restaurants, bars, movie theaters, tattoo parlors, zoos, event centers and ethanol plants that lost business because of reduced travel and gasoline usage.

"In every area where you see a separate line item, there was an additional need," Ricketts said at a news conference to announce the grant funding.

Nebraska will provide up to $12,000 for restaurants, bars and tattoo parlors that can show they were hurt by the pandemic. Hotels and convention centers could each qualify for up to $500,000, depending on their size. Restaurants qualified for the same amount when the state awarded its first round of assistance earlier in July.

Ricketts said restaurants that didn't get a first-round grant could be eligible for $24,000. He said some eligible businesses didn't apply for the initial funding because they didn't know about it or didn't think they qualified.

State officials have also set aside $11 million for food banks, $2.5 million for licensed child care providers and $3.3 million to help renters who are at risk of eviction.

Dannette Smith, CEO of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, said charitable groups that qualify will receive at least $12,000 each. She said her agency will focus on the hardest-hit areas of the state, as measured by the number of virus cases per capita. Groups that received aid in July aren't eligible this time, except assisted-living facilities and long-term facilities.

"These are two providers that we know have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic," Smith said.

The announcement comes as Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-pandemics-pete-ricketts-nebraska-da8092802a4251e12c4d1c8a54195f4a" target="_blank">sees a surge in coronavirus cases</a>&nbsp;that has led to a record number of hospitalizations. The state now has the nation's fifth-highest rate of new infections.

A record 343 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 after Nebraska reported 734 new cases of the virus Sunday, giving the state 58,068 cases since the pandemic began. State officials have linked 548 deaths to the virus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588723042149.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska will reopen a series of federally funded grant programs to help small businesses and nonprofits that are struggling due to the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Monday.Nebraska still has $160 million available from the $1 billion it received under the federal CARES Act, the package designed to soften the pandemic's impact on the economy. The state will&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Home" target="_blank">accept applications</a>&nbsp;for assistance from 10 a.m. Wednesday until Nov. 13 on a first-come, first-served basis.The newest round of grants will include aid targeting some of the hardest-hit businesses, including restaurants, bars, movie theaters, tattoo parlors, zoos, event centers and ethanol plants that lost business because of reduced travel and gasoline usage."In every area where you see a separate line item, there was an additional need," Ricketts said at a news conference to announce the grant funding.Nebraska will provide up to $12,000 for restaurants, bars and tattoo parlors that can show they were hurt by the pandemic. Hotels and convention centers could each qualify for up to $500,000, depending on their size. Restaurants qualified for the same amount when the state awarded its first round of assistance earlier in July.Ricketts said restaurants that didn't get a first-round grant could be eligible for $24,000. He said some eligible businesses didn't apply for the initial funding because they didn't know about it or didn't think they qualified.State officials have also set aside $11 million for food banks, $2.5 million for licensed child care providers and $3.3 million to help renters who are at risk of eviction.Dannette Smith, CEO of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, said charitable groups that qualify will receive at least $12,000 each. She said her agency will focus on the hardest-hit areas of the state, as measured by the number of virus cases per capita. Groups that received aid in July aren't eligible this time, except assisted-living facilities and long-term facilities."These are two providers that we know have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic," Smith said.The announcement comes as Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-pandemics-pete-ricketts-nebraska-da8092802a4251e12c4d1c8a54195f4a" target="_blank">sees a surge in coronavirus cases</a>&nbsp;that has led to a record number of hospitalizations. The state now has the nation's fifth-highest rate of new infections.A record 343 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 after Nebraska reported 734 new cases of the virus Sunday, giving the state 58,068 cases since the pandemic began. State officials have linked 548 deaths to the virus.

Nebraska offers more grants for businesses hit by pandemic

ERIC OLSON-AP College Football Writer

Adrian Martinez has turned back a challenge from Luke McCaffrey to win the starting quarterback's job for Nebraska's opener at No. 5 Ohio State.

McCaffrey made a serious bid to unseat the Cornhuskers' two-year starter, who struggled with injuries last year and seemed to regress from his fantastic freshman season in 2018.

"Adrian is going to be our quarterback," coach Scott Frost said Monday. "I feel like I've got two guys playing at a really high level. I've seen a lot of improvement out of Adrian this year. I've seen a lot of improvement out of Luke. Both those guys are capable of moving our offense and doing a great job."

McCaffrey, brother of NFL star Christian McCaffrey and son of former pro receiver Ed McCaffrey, played quarterback and receiver as a freshman last season and quickly became a fan favorite.

As third-string QB last year, he played five-plus series in a loss to Indiana and completed 5 of 6 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown and ran 12 times for 76 yards. He also threw a 39-yard touchdown pass in a loss to Iowa.

Frost limited McCaffrey to four games so he could retain a year of eligibility.

Frost said he didn't know how much, if any, separation there is between Martinez and McCaffrey.

"I think we have two first-string quarterbacks. That's what we feel about them," Frost said. "I really believe if Luke would have been the one who already had been playing and we were to have the same camp, it would probably be Luke."

Martinez was the most productive freshman quarterback in the nation in 2018, averaging 371 yards of total offense against Big Ten West opponents and a school-record 295 per game overall. He led an offense that ranked second in the Big Ten and scored 30 points per game.

Martinez showed up on early Heisman Trophy candidate lists in the spring of 2019 and in the fall became the first sophomore in two decades to be voted a team captain at Nebraska.

But Martinez injured his left knee and missed games against Minnesota and Indiana. His passing accuracy slipped from 65% to 59%, and his nine interceptions were tied for second most in the Big Ten.

Martinez faced no competition for the starting job in 2019. As a freshman he had to win a battle against Tristan Gebbia, who ended up transferring to Oregon State.

"It was more similar to that first year than it was last year," Martinez said of competing with McCaffrey, "and I think it brought the most out of myself and Luke as well as the team surrounding us."

Martinez will try to atone for a poor start against Ohio State last year. He was intercepted on three of the Huskers' first four series in a 48-7 loss at home.

The Huskers will be playing at a mostly empty Ohio Stadium this week because of the Big Ten policy not allowing fans to attend games during the coronavirus pandemic.

"It will be bizarre," he said. "It will be a little bit of an adjustment at first. We'll be ready to go either way. If you need any more excitement to play in that game, in that stadium... I don't think it matters (if) the fans are there or not. Guys are going to be ready to play."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603140020318.png" alt="Courtesy Photo UNL" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo UNL</figcaption>
 </figure>ERIC OLSON-AP College Football Writer Adrian Martinez has turned back a challenge from Luke McCaffrey to win the starting quarterback's job for Nebraska's opener at No. 5 Ohio State.McCaffrey made a serious bid to unseat the Cornhuskers' two-year starter, who struggled with injuries last year and seemed to regress from his fantastic freshman season in 2018."Adrian is going to be our quarterback," coach Scott Frost said Monday. "I feel like I've got two guys playing at a really high level. I've seen a lot of improvement out of Adrian this year. I've seen a lot of improvement out of Luke. Both those guys are capable of moving our offense and doing a great job."McCaffrey, brother of NFL star Christian McCaffrey and son of former pro receiver Ed McCaffrey, played quarterback and receiver as a freshman last season and quickly became a fan favorite.As third-string QB last year, he played five-plus series in a loss to Indiana and completed 5 of 6 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown and ran 12 times for 76 yards. He also threw a 39-yard touchdown pass in a loss to Iowa.Frost limited McCaffrey to four games so he could retain a year of eligibility.Frost said he didn't know how much, if any, separation there is between Martinez and McCaffrey."I think we have two first-string quarterbacks. That's what we feel about them," Frost said. "I really believe if Luke would have been the one who already had been playing and we were to have the same camp, it would probably be Luke."Martinez was the most productive freshman quarterback in the nation in 2018, averaging 371 yards of total offense against Big Ten West opponents and a school-record 295 per game overall. He led an offense that ranked second in the Big Ten and scored 30 points per game.Martinez showed up on early Heisman Trophy candidate lists in the spring of 2019 and in the fall became the first sophomore in two decades to be voted a team captain at Nebraska.But Martinez injured his left knee and missed games against Minnesota and Indiana. His passing accuracy slipped from 65% to 59%, and his nine interceptions were tied for second most in the Big Ten.Martinez faced no competition for the starting job in 2019. As a freshman he had to win a battle against Tristan Gebbia, who ended up transferring to Oregon State."It was more similar to that first year than it was last year," Martinez said of competing with McCaffrey, "and I think it brought the most out of myself and Luke as well as the team surrounding us."Martinez will try to atone for a poor start against Ohio State last year. He was intercepted on three of the Huskers' first four series in a 48-7 loss at home.The Huskers will be playing at a mostly empty Ohio Stadium this week because of the Big Ten policy not allowing fans to attend games during the coronavirus pandemic."It will be bizarre," he said. "It will be a little bit of an adjustment at first. We'll be ready to go either way. If you need any more excitement to play in that game, in that stadium... I don't think it matters (if) the fans are there or not. Guys are going to be ready to play."

Martinez beats out McCaffrey for Huskers' starting QB job

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Students, staff, and families at Madison Middle School were warned of a possible COVID-19 exposure to some students and staff.

According to an email sent to families from Principal Bobbi Isom, a student at the school tested positive for the virus and was last in school on Monday, October 19.

The message said the student is now in "isolation" as a result of the positive test.

According to Isom, students and staff in the following classes may have had a possible exposure to COVID-19:

According to Isom, students and staff are directed to wear masks and practice physical distancing.

The message said it is recommended that students, staff, and families actively monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19. They are urged to contact the West Central District Health Department or their general health care provider if symptoms should arise.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603139822320.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Students, staff, and families at Madison Middle School were warned of a possible COVID-19 exposure to some students and staff.According to an email sent to families from Principal Bobbi Isom, a student at the school tested positive for the virus and was last in school on Monday, October 19.The message said the student is now in "isolation" as a result of the positive test.According to Isom, students and staff in the following classes may have had a possible exposure to COVID-19:-Mr. Hammond's Drive-1st Period Blue English-2nd Period Blue Science-3rd Period Computers/Physical Education-4th Period Blue Math-5th Perios I/E with Mrs. Hammond-Blue Lunch-7th Period Reading with Ms. Jacobsen-8th Period Blue Social Studies-9th Period Health or Keyboarding-Check-Out with Mrs. HammondAccording to Isom, students and staff are directed to wear masks and practice physical distancing.The message said it is recommended that students, staff, and families actively monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19. They are urged to contact the West Central District Health Department or their general health care provider if symptoms should arise.

Student at Madison Middle School tests positive for COVID

LINCOLN, Neb. – The recently released 2020-2021 Stubble Access Guide highlights more than 40,000 additional acres of wheat and milo stubble and adjacent upland habitat land open for public access hunting in western Nebraska.

Wheat and milo stubble left tall after harvest provides fall and winter wildlife habitat and excellent hunting opportunities. Many stubble fields also include unfarmable pockets containing dense cover, which are often underutilized by hunters.

After harvest each year, these fields are enrolled in Open Fields and Waters — a program in which the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission works with landowners to increase public hunting, trapping, and/or fishing access on private lands. The Stubble Access Guide displays these tracts of land, as well as other publicly accessible lands available for walk-in hunting garnered after the publication of the well-known Public Access Atlas.

The Stubble Access Guide is available where hunt permits are sold throughout parts of western Nebraska. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5Njc3MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.Ldiv9RakhMzeq_5EaPyNUvtwHlOcL-EOi32SghD5oEU/s/497221905/br/87082812990-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>&nbsp;to view the guide as well as digital and interactive versions of the Public Access Atlas, which are updated throughout hunting seasons. To request copies of any of these materials, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5Njc3MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9Ccm9jaHVyZVJlcXVlc3RzLyJ9.u2ULMeFT97Q6buWECXF_FVoxrFnqhHiRsJiTWeZUcjA/s/497221905/br/87082812990-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/BrochureRequests</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598739288757.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – The recently released 2020-2021 Stubble Access Guide highlights more than 40,000 additional acres of wheat and milo stubble and adjacent upland habitat land open for public access hunting in western Nebraska.Wheat and milo stubble left tall after harvest provides fall and winter wildlife habitat and excellent hunting opportunities. Many stubble fields also include unfarmable pockets containing dense cover, which are often underutilized by hunters.After harvest each year, these fields are enrolled in Open Fields and Waters — a program in which the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission works with landowners to increase public hunting, trapping, and/or fishing access on private lands. The Stubble Access Guide displays these tracts of land, as well as other publicly accessible lands available for walk-in hunting garnered after the publication of the well-known Public Access Atlas.The Stubble Access Guide is available where hunt permits are sold throughout parts of western Nebraska. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5Njc3MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.Ldiv9RakhMzeq_5EaPyNUvtwHlOcL-EOi32SghD5oEU/s/497221905/br/87082812990-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>&nbsp;to view the guide as well as digital and interactive versions of the Public Access Atlas, which are updated throughout hunting seasons. To request copies of any of these materials, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMTkuMjg5Njc3MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9Ccm9jaHVyZVJlcXVlc3RzLyJ9.u2ULMeFT97Q6buWECXF_FVoxrFnqhHiRsJiTWeZUcjA/s/497221905/br/87082812990-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/BrochureRequests</a>.

2020-2021 Nebraska Stubble Access Guide now available

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska Arts Council announced that the Governor's Arts Awards are back.

The Council says, in the interest of public health and safety, the Nebraska Arts Council will be live streaming the Governor’s Arts Awards on October 29th at 7 pm Central Time.

The Governor's Arts Awards will be accessible via the Council's <a href="https://www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov/">website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaArtsCouncil">social media</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/NebraskaArtsCouncil">YouTube channel</a>.

The biennial Governor's Arts Awards is Nebraska's premier event in recognizing individuals and organizations that shape our state's artistic landscape, according to the Council. The impact of the arts, and these honorees, is felt in the classroom, the economy, and the community. 

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska Arts Council announced that the Governor's Arts Awards are back.The Council says, in the interest of public health and safety, the Nebraska Arts Council will be live streaming the Governor’s Arts Awards on October 29th at 7 pm Central Time.The Governor's Arts Awards will be accessible via the Council's <a href="https://www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov/">website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaArtsCouncil">social media</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/NebraskaArtsCouncil">YouTube channel</a>.The biennial Governor's Arts Awards is Nebraska's premier event in recognizing individuals and organizations that shape our state's artistic landscape, according to the Council. The impact of the arts, and these honorees, is felt in the classroom, the economy, and the community.

Nebraska's Governor's Arts Awards are back

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) says US Highway 30 from Maxwell to Brady is open.

According to NDOT,&nbsp;Highway 30 from Reference Post 191+08 to Reference Post 200+91 is open to normal traffic with ongoing construction. 

Paulsen, Inc., of Cozad, Nebraska, has the $6,035,196 contract. Work includes grading, concrete repair, concrete overlay, asphalt milling, asphalt surfacing, and seeding, according to NDOT. 

NDOT will continue utilizing flaggers and a pilot car during November 2020, with work resuming in the Spring of 2021. 

The anticipated completion is in Summer 2021. 

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) says US Highway 30 from Maxwell to Brady is open.According to NDOT,&nbsp;Highway 30 from Reference Post 191+08 to Reference Post 200+91 is open to normal traffic with ongoing construction. Paulsen, Inc., of Cozad, Nebraska, has the $6,035,196 contract. Work includes grading, concrete repair, concrete overlay, asphalt milling, asphalt surfacing, and seeding, according to NDOT. NDOT will continue utilizing flaggers and a pilot car during November 2020, with work resuming in the Spring of 2021. The anticipated completion is in Summer 2021. Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down.

Highway 30 from Maxwell to Brady open to normal traffic

Halloween is typically a relaxed day for America's kids to fill their coffers with candy. Children and adults often don their favorite wacky attire for a day of comic relief. 

America needs a day of some kind of relief and maybe Halloween will provide some insanity or terror relief. Because nothing about Halloween is as scary as what America and the world has been experiencing. 

We have buried over 220,000 Americans from Covid-19. Over eight million have been sick. Nursing homes and Intensive Care Units have become horror wards. The projections for more sickness and death scare most Americans. We are afraid to go to church, out to eat, and to the grocery store. The airplane, hotel and restaurant industries are in peril as many have already closed or are on the verge of closing. Over 12 Million Americans are now unemployed and many in financial devastation because of Covid-19. 

 Congress continues to haggle over what and how much the government can further indebt our nation to keep us afloat for the present. With an approximate 28 trillion-dollar deficit and growing when will America file for bankruptcy? What will it take to keep Social Security and Medicare going? More taxes for a broader range of Americans and increased payroll taxes are on the near horizon, most Americans fear. It's more than a little scary. 

On top of Covid-19, job loss, business failures and increasing poverty Americans are masked fatigued. Children are tired of being home from school. Adults miss the comaraderie and social dynamics of their workmates. Working at home first felt good and welcomed but has become old for many Americans. The thought of this going on for another six months or even a year or longer is more than scary - it's terrifying. 

On top of all this we have a major election in front of us. Americans are terrified about the election. We are frightened about who will be elected. Trump being reelected terrifies millions while millions are terrified Joe Biden will be elected. We are horrified of what may come as the result of this election and what either of the candidates may bring to America the next four years.

We are further scared by each other. The hostility of Americans toward people with different views is out of hand. Hurting people, cursing people, destroying property are not hallmark qualities of a civilized society. We have sadly stopped being civil in America. Rude and crude are no longer shy in this nation. Pushing, shoving and outright fighting with people is becoming too normal. This is not what the average American wants and is disdained by most of us. Let's face it, people who act this way scare most Americans.

It's Halloween time in America and there is plenty of fright to go around. The best treat we can give our country is treating each other the way we would like to be treated. 

Click <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=glenn+mollette&amp;ref=nb_sb_noss_2">HERE</a> for Books By Glenn Mollette. Read his latest book Uncommon Sense

Music by Glenn Mollette through iTunes and all music dealers

Contact him at GMollette@aol.com. Learn more at www.glennmollette.com Like his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GlennMollette/">Facebook</a> page.

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 12 books including Uncommon Sense. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603123207309.jpeg" alt="Dr. Glenn Mollette" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Glenn Mollette</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Glenn Mollette Halloween is typically a relaxed day for America's kids to fill their coffers with candy. Children and adults often don their favorite wacky attire for a day of comic relief. America needs a day of some kind of relief and maybe Halloween will provide some insanity or terror relief. Because nothing about Halloween is as scary as what America and the world has been experiencing. We have buried over 220,000 Americans from Covid-19. Over eight million have been sick. Nursing homes and Intensive Care Units have become horror wards. The projections for more sickness and death scare most Americans. We are afraid to go to church, out to eat, and to the grocery store. The airplane, hotel and restaurant industries are in peril as many have already closed or are on the verge of closing. Over 12 Million Americans are now unemployed and many in financial devastation because of Covid-19. Congress continues to haggle over what and how much the government can further indebt our nation to keep us afloat for the present. With an approximate 28 trillion-dollar deficit and growing when will America file for bankruptcy? What will it take to keep Social Security and Medicare going? More taxes for a broader range of Americans and increased payroll taxes are on the near horizon, most Americans fear. It's more than a little scary. On top of Covid-19, job loss, business failures and increasing poverty Americans are masked fatigued. Children are tired of being home from school. Adults miss the comaraderie and social dynamics of their workmates. Working at home first felt good and welcomed but has become old for many Americans. The thought of this going on for another six months or even a year or longer is more than scary - it's terrifying. On top of all this we have a major election in front of us. Americans are terrified about the election. We are frightened about who will be elected. Trump being reelected terrifies millions while millions are terrified Joe Biden will be elected. We are horrified of what may come as the result of this election and what either of the candidates may bring to America the next four years.We are further scared by each other. The hostility of Americans toward people with different views is out of hand. Hurting people, cursing people, destroying property are not hallmark qualities of a civilized society. We have sadly stopped being civil in America. Rude and crude are no longer shy in this nation. Pushing, shoving and outright fighting with people is becoming too normal. This is not what the average American wants and is disdained by most of us. Let's face it, people who act this way scare most Americans.It's Halloween time in America and there is plenty of fright to go around. The best treat we can give our country is treating each other the way we would like to be treated. Click <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=glenn+mollette&amp;ref=nb_sb_noss_2">HERE</a> for Books By Glenn Mollette. Read his latest book Uncommon SenseMusic by Glenn Mollette through iTunes and all music dealersContact him at GMollette@aol.com. Learn more at www.glennmollette.com Like his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GlennMollette/">Facebook</a> page.About Dr. Glenn Mollette Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 12 books including Uncommon Sense. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.

COLUMN Dr. Mollette: Halloween is coming and Americans are scared

Scotty talks with Alisha from the Mid-Plains United Way about their upcoming Community Feed. Have a listen!

Scotty talks with Alisha from the Mid-Plains United Way about their upcoming Community Feed. Have a listen!<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Food for a great cause with the Mid-Plains United Way" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/bv2tr-efca6e?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: Food for a great cause with the Mid-Plains United Way

Today is Monday, Oct. 19, the 293rd day of 2020. There are 73 days left in the year.

On Oct. 19, 1781, British troops under Gen. Lord Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia, as the American Revolution neared its end.

In 1765, the Stamp Act Congress, meeting in New York, adopted a declaration of rights and liberties, which the British Parliament ignored.

In 1812, French forces under Napoleon Bonaparte began their retreat from Moscow.

In 1944, the U.S. Navy began accepting Black women into WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service).

In 1960, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested during a sit-down protest at a lunch counter in Atlanta. (Sent to prison for a parole violation over a traffic offense, King was released after three days following an appeal by Robert F. Kennedy.)

In 1977, the supersonic Concorde made its first landing in New York City.

In 1987, the stock market crashed as the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 508 points, or 22.6 percent in value (its biggest daily percentage loss), to close at 1,738.74 in what came to be known as “Black Monday.”

In 1994, 22 people were killed as a terrorist bomb shattered a bus in the heart of Tel Aviv’s shopping district.

In 2001, U.S. special forces began operations on the ground in Afghanistan, opening a significant new phase of the assault against the Taliban and al-Qaida.

In 2002, in York, Pa., former mayor Charlie Robertson was acquitted and two other men were convicted in the shotgun slaying of Lillie Belle Allen, a young Black woman, during race riots that tore the city apart in 1969.

In 2003, Pope John Paul II beatified Mother Teresa during a ceremony in St. Peter’s Square.

In 2005, a defiant Saddam Hussein pleaded innocent to charges of premeditated murder and torture as his trial opened under heavy security in the former headquarters of his Baath Party in Baghdad.

In 2014, Peyton Manning broke Brett Favre’s NFL record of 508 career touchdown passes as he threw four TD passes in Denver’s 42-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. (The record would later be broken by Drew Brees and Tom Brady.)

Ten years ago: The Pentagon directed the military to accept openly gay recruits for the first time in the nation’s history. Hosam Smadi, a Jordanian man caught in an FBI sting trying to blow up a Dallas skyscraper, was sentenced to 24 years in prison after telling the court he was ashamed of his actions and renouncing al-Qaida. “Happy Days” patriarch Tom Bosley died in Rancho Mirage, California, at age 83.

Five years ago: Canadians voted for a sharp change in their government as the Liberals led by Justin Trudeau, the son of a former prime minister, won a landslide victory to end Conservative Stephen Harper’s near decade in office. Ahmed Mohamed, the Texas teenager arrested after a homemade clock he’d brought to school was mistaken for a bomb, capped a whirlwind month with a visit to the White House, where he met with President Barack Obama for “Astronomy Night.” The Toronto Blue Jays roughed up Johnny Cueto for an 11-8 victory over the Royals that cut Kansas City’s AL Championship series lead to 2-1.

One year ago: The Houston Astros advanced to the World Series for the second time in three years, defeating the New York Yankees 6-4 in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series. (The Astros would lose the World Series to the Washington Nationals in seven games.) At a rally in New York, Bernie Sanders resumed his campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, weeks after being sidelined by a heart attack. In the wake of stinging criticism, President Donald Trump reversed his plan to hold the next Group of Seven world leaders’ meeting at his Doral, Florida, golf resort.

Today in HistoryToday is Monday, Oct. 19, the 293rd day of 2020. There are 73 days left in the year.Today’s Highlight in History:On Oct. 19, 1781, British troops under Gen. Lord Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia, as the American Revolution neared its end.On this date:In 1765, the Stamp Act Congress, meeting in New York, adopted a declaration of rights and liberties, which the British Parliament ignored.In 1812, French forces under Napoleon Bonaparte began their retreat from Moscow.In 1944, the U.S. Navy began accepting Black women into WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service).In 1960, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested during a sit-down protest at a lunch counter in Atlanta. (Sent to prison for a parole violation over a traffic offense, King was released after three days following an appeal by Robert F. Kennedy.)In 1977, the supersonic Concorde made its first landing in New York City.In 1987, the stock market crashed as the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 508 points, or 22.6 percent in value (its biggest daily percentage loss), to close at 1,738.74 in what came to be known as “Black Monday.”In 1994, 22 people were killed as a terrorist bomb shattered a bus in the heart of Tel Aviv’s shopping district.In 2001, U.S. special forces began operations on the ground in Afghanistan, opening a significant new phase of the assault against the Taliban and al-Qaida.In 2002, in York, Pa., former mayor Charlie Robertson was acquitted and two other men were convicted in the shotgun slaying of Lillie Belle Allen, a young Black woman, during race riots that tore the city apart in 1969.In 2003, Pope John Paul II beatified Mother Teresa during a ceremony in St. Peter’s Square.In 2005, a defiant Saddam Hussein pleaded innocent to charges of premeditated murder and torture as his trial opened under heavy security in the former headquarters of his Baath Party in Baghdad.In 2014, Peyton Manning broke Brett Favre’s NFL record of 508 career touchdown passes as he threw four TD passes in Denver’s 42-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. (The record would later be broken by Drew Brees and Tom Brady.)Ten years ago: The Pentagon directed the military to accept openly gay recruits for the first time in the nation’s history. Hosam Smadi, a Jordanian man caught in an FBI sting trying to blow up a Dallas skyscraper, was sentenced to 24 years in prison after telling the court he was ashamed of his actions and renouncing al-Qaida. “Happy Days” patriarch Tom Bosley died in Rancho Mirage, California, at age 83.Five years ago: Canadians voted for a sharp change in their government as the Liberals led by Justin Trudeau, the son of a former prime minister, won a landslide victory to end Conservative Stephen Harper’s near decade in office. Ahmed Mohamed, the Texas teenager arrested after a homemade clock he’d brought to school was mistaken for a bomb, capped a whirlwind month with a visit to the White House, where he met with President Barack Obama for “Astronomy Night.” The Toronto Blue Jays roughed up Johnny Cueto for an 11-8 victory over the Royals that cut Kansas City’s AL Championship series lead to 2-1.One year ago: The Houston Astros advanced to the World Series for the second time in three years, defeating the New York Yankees 6-4 in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series. (The Astros would lose the World Series to the Washington Nationals in seven games.) At a rally in New York, Bernie Sanders resumed his campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, weeks after being sidelined by a heart attack. In the wake of stinging criticism, President Donald Trump reversed his plan to hold the next Group of Seven world leaders’ meeting at his Doral, Florida, golf resort.Today’s Birthdays: Author John le Carre (luh kah-RAY’) is 89. Actor Tony Lo Bianco is 84. Artist Peter Max is 83. Author and critic Renata Adler is 83. Actor Michael Gambon is 80. Actor John Lithgow (LIHTH’-goh) is 75. Feminist activist Patricia Ireland is 75. Singer Jeannie C. Riley is 75. Rock singer-musician Patrick Simmons (The Doobie Brothers) is 72. Actor Annie Golden is 69. Talk show host Charlie Chase is 68. Rock singer-musician Karl Wallinger (World Party) is 63. Former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele is 62. Singer Jennifer Holliday is 60. Retired boxer Evander Holyfield is 58. Host Ty Pennington (TV: “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”) is 56. Rock singer-musician Todd Park Mohr (Big Head Todd and the Monsters) is 55. Actor Jon Favreau is 54. Amy Carter is 53. “South Park” co-creator Trey Parker is 51. Comedian Chris Kattan is 50. Rock singer Pras Michel (The Fugees) is 48. Actor Omar Gooding is 44. Country singer Cyndi Thomson is 44. Writer-director Jason Reitman is 43. Actor Benjamin Salisbury is 40. Actor Gillian Jacobs is 38. Actor Rebecca Ferguson is 37. Rock singer Zac Barnett (American Authors) is 34. Singer-actor Ciara Renee (TV: “Legends of Tomorrow”) is 30. Actor Hunter King is 27.

Local