Scotty sits down for our weekly conversation with John Hales, candidate for Mayor of North Platte.

Scotty sits down for our weekly conversation with John Hales, candidate for Mayor of North Platte.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: John Hales for Mayor" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/35f3c-efca86?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: John Hales for Mayor

WESSINGTON SPRINGS, S.D. (AP) — Rural Jerauld County in South Dakota didn’t see a single case of the coronavirus for more than two months stretching from June to August. But over the last two weeks, its rate of new cases per person soared to one of the highest in the nation.

“All of a sudden it hit, and as it does, it just exploded,” said Dr. Tom Dean, one of just three doctors who work in the county.

As the brunt of the virus has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-north-dakota-wisconsin-archive-9d53f66db25f04bd9cdc7b6142e950d8">blown into the Upper Midwest and northern Plains</a>, the severity of outbreaks in rural communities has come into focus. Doctors and health officials in small towns worry that infections may overwhelm communities with limited medical resources. And many say they are still running up against attitudes on wearing masks that have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7dce310db6e85b31d735e81d0af6769c">hardened along political lines</a>&nbsp;and a false notion that rural areas are immune to widespread infections.

Dean took to writing a column in the local weekly newspaper, the True Dakotan, to offer his guidance. In recent weeks, he’s watched as one in roughly every 37 people in his county has tested positive for the virus.

It ripped through the nursing home in Wessington Springs where both his parents lived, killing his father. The community’s six deaths may appear minimal compared with thousands who have died in cities, but they have propelled the county of about 2,000 people to a death rate roughly four times higher than the nationwide rate.

Rural counties across Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana sit among the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-nfl-pandemics-tennessee-titans-football-0b6fda946ead1ec3c931b8c895fa56ba">top in the nation</a>&nbsp;for new cases per capita over the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins University researchers. Overall, the nation topped 8 million confirmed coronavirus cases in the university’s count on Friday; the true number of infections is believed to be much higher because many people have not been tested.

In counties with just a few thousand people, the number of cases per capita can soar with even a small outbreak — and the toll hits close to home in tight-knit towns.

“One or two people with infections can really cause a large impact when you have one grocery store or gas station,” said Misty Rudebusch, the medical director at a network of rural health clinics in South Dakota called Horizon Health Care. “There is such a ripple effect.”

Wessington Springs is a hub for the generations of farmers and ranchers that work the surrounding land. Residents send their children to the same schoolhouse they attended and have preserved cultural offerings like a Shakespeare garden and opera house.

They trust Dean, who for 42 years has tended to everything from broken bones to high blood pressure. When a patient needs a higher level of care, the family physician usually depends on a transfer to a hospital 130 miles (209 kilometers) away.

As cases surge, hospitals in rural communities are having trouble finding beds. A recent request to transfer a “not desperately ill, but pretty” sick COVID-19 patient was denied for several days, until the patient’s condition had worsened, Dean said.

“We’re proud of what we got, but it’s been a struggle,” he said of the 16-bed hospital.

The outbreak that killed Dean’s dad forced Wessington Springs’ only nursing home to put out a statewide request for nurses.

Thin resources and high death rates have plagued other small communities. Blair Tomsheck, interim director of the health department in Toole County, Montana, worried that the region’s small hospitals would need to start caring for serious COVID-19 patients after cases spiked to the nation’s highest per capita. One out of every 28 people in the county has tested positive in the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins researchers.

“It’s very, very challenging when your resources are poor — living in a small, rural county,” she said.

Infections can also spread quickly in places like Toole County, where most everyone shops at the same grocery store, attends the same school or worships at a handful of churches.

“The Sunday family dinners are killing us,” Tomsheck said.

Even as outbreaks threaten to spiral out of control, doctors and health officials said they are struggling to convince people of the seriousness of a virus that took months to arrive in force.

“It’s kind of like getting a blizzard warning and then the blizzard doesn’t hit that week, so then the next time, people say they are not going to worry about it,” said Kathleen Taylor, a 67-year-old author who lives in Redfield, South Dakota.

In swaths of the country decorated by flags supporting President Donald Trump, people took their cues on wearing masks from his often-cavalier attitude towards the virus. Dean draws a direct connection between Trump’s approach and the lack of precautions in his town of 956 people.

“There’s the foolish idea that mask-wearing or refusal is some kind of a political statement,” Dean said. “It has seriously interfered with our ability to get it under control.”

Even amid the surge, Republican governors in the region have been reluctant to act. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum said recently, “We are caught in the middle of a COVID storm” as he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ba8b83e6be3d77a7408643ff7abd6583">raised advisory risk levels in counties across the state</a>. But he has refused to issue a mask mandate.

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who has carved out a reputation among conservatives by foregoing lockdowns,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/54403f94e394687965789f902e30a9cc">blamed the surge in cases</a>&nbsp;on testing increases, even though the state has had the highest positivity rate in the nation over the last two weeks, according to the COVID Tracking Project. Positivity rates are an indication of how widespread infections are.

In Wisconsin, conservative groups&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-pandemics-health-wisconsin-archive-a13ab87c1c43f561299d5d9851ffac83">have sued</a>&nbsp;over Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ mask mandate.

Whether the requirement survives doesn’t matter to Jody Bierhals, a resident of Gillett who doubts the efficacy of wearing a mask. Her home county of Oconto, which stretches from the northern border of Green Bay into forests and farmland, has the state’s second-highest growth in coronavirus cases per person.

Bierhals, a single mother with three kids, is more worried about the drop in business at her small salon. The region depends on tourists, but many have stayed away during the pandemic.

“Do I want to keep the water on, or do I want to be able to put food on the table?” she asked. “It’s a difficult situation.”

Bierhals said she thought the virus couldn’t be stopped and it would be best to let it run its course. But local attitudes like that have left the county’s health officer, Debra Konitzer, desperate.

Konitzer warned that the uncontrolled spread of infections has overwhelmed the county’s health systems.

“I’m just waiting to see if our community can change our behavior,” she said. “Otherwise, I don’t see the end in sight.

WESSINGTON SPRINGS, S.D. (AP) — Rural Jerauld County in South Dakota didn’t see a single case of the coronavirus for more than two months stretching from June to August. But over the last two weeks, its rate of new cases per person soared to one of the highest in the nation.“All of a sudden it hit, and as it does, it just exploded,” said Dr. Tom Dean, one of just three doctors who work in the county.As the brunt of the virus has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-north-dakota-wisconsin-archive-9d53f66db25f04bd9cdc7b6142e950d8">blown into the Upper Midwest and northern Plains</a>, the severity of outbreaks in rural communities has come into focus. Doctors and health officials in small towns worry that infections may overwhelm communities with limited medical resources. And many say they are still running up against attitudes on wearing masks that have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7dce310db6e85b31d735e81d0af6769c">hardened along political lines</a>&nbsp;and a false notion that rural areas are immune to widespread infections.Dean took to writing a column in the local weekly newspaper, the True Dakotan, to offer his guidance. In recent weeks, he’s watched as one in roughly every 37 people in his county has tested positive for the virus.It ripped through the nursing home in Wessington Springs where both his parents lived, killing his father. The community’s six deaths may appear minimal compared with thousands who have died in cities, but they have propelled the county of about 2,000 people to a death rate roughly four times higher than the nationwide rate.Rural counties across Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana sit among the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-nfl-pandemics-tennessee-titans-football-0b6fda946ead1ec3c931b8c895fa56ba">top in the nation</a>&nbsp;for new cases per capita over the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins University researchers. Overall, the nation topped 8 million confirmed coronavirus cases in the university’s count on Friday; the true number of infections is believed to be much higher because many people have not been tested.In counties with just a few thousand people, the number of cases per capita can soar with even a small outbreak — and the toll hits close to home in tight-knit towns.“One or two people with infections can really cause a large impact when you have one grocery store or gas station,” said Misty Rudebusch, the medical director at a network of rural health clinics in South Dakota called Horizon Health Care. “There is such a ripple effect.”Wessington Springs is a hub for the generations of farmers and ranchers that work the surrounding land. Residents send their children to the same schoolhouse they attended and have preserved cultural offerings like a Shakespeare garden and opera house.They trust Dean, who for 42 years has tended to everything from broken bones to high blood pressure. When a patient needs a higher level of care, the family physician usually depends on a transfer to a hospital 130 miles (209 kilometers) away.As cases surge, hospitals in rural communities are having trouble finding beds. A recent request to transfer a “not desperately ill, but pretty” sick COVID-19 patient was denied for several days, until the patient’s condition had worsened, Dean said.“We’re proud of what we got, but it’s been a struggle,” he said of the 16-bed hospital.The outbreak that killed Dean’s dad forced Wessington Springs’ only nursing home to put out a statewide request for nurses.Thin resources and high death rates have plagued other small communities. Blair Tomsheck, interim director of the health department in Toole County, Montana, worried that the region’s small hospitals would need to start caring for serious COVID-19 patients after cases spiked to the nation’s highest per capita. One out of every 28 people in the county has tested positive in the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins researchers.“It’s very, very challenging when your resources are poor — living in a small, rural county,” she said.Infections can also spread quickly in places like Toole County, where most everyone shops at the same grocery store, attends the same school or worships at a handful of churches.“The Sunday family dinners are killing us,” Tomsheck said.Even as outbreaks threaten to spiral out of control, doctors and health officials said they are struggling to convince people of the seriousness of a virus that took months to arrive in force.“It’s kind of like getting a blizzard warning and then the blizzard doesn’t hit that week, so then the next time, people say they are not going to worry about it,” said Kathleen Taylor, a 67-year-old author who lives in Redfield, South Dakota.In swaths of the country decorated by flags supporting President Donald Trump, people took their cues on wearing masks from his often-cavalier attitude towards the virus. Dean draws a direct connection between Trump’s approach and the lack of precautions in his town of 956 people.“There’s the foolish idea that mask-wearing or refusal is some kind of a political statement,” Dean said. “It has seriously interfered with our ability to get it under control.”Even amid the surge, Republican governors in the region have been reluctant to act. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum said recently, “We are caught in the middle of a COVID storm” as he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ba8b83e6be3d77a7408643ff7abd6583">raised advisory risk levels in counties across the state</a>. But he has refused to issue a mask mandate.South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who has carved out a reputation among conservatives by foregoing lockdowns,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/54403f94e394687965789f902e30a9cc">blamed the surge in cases</a>&nbsp;on testing increases, even though the state has had the highest positivity rate in the nation over the last two weeks, according to the COVID Tracking Project. Positivity rates are an indication of how widespread infections are.In Wisconsin, conservative groups&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-pandemics-health-wisconsin-archive-a13ab87c1c43f561299d5d9851ffac83">have sued</a>&nbsp;over Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ mask mandate.Whether the requirement survives doesn’t matter to Jody Bierhals, a resident of Gillett who doubts the efficacy of wearing a mask. Her home county of Oconto, which stretches from the northern border of Green Bay into forests and farmland, has the state’s second-highest growth in coronavirus cases per person.Bierhals, a single mother with three kids, is more worried about the drop in business at her small salon. The region depends on tourists, but many have stayed away during the pandemic.“Do I want to keep the water on, or do I want to be able to put food on the table?” she asked. “It’s a difficult situation.”Bierhals said she thought the virus couldn’t be stopped and it would be best to let it run its course. But local attitudes like that have left the county’s health officer, Debra Konitzer, desperate.Konitzer warned that the uncontrolled spread of infections has overwhelmed the county’s health systems.“I’m just waiting to see if our community can change our behavior,” she said. “Otherwise, I don’t see the end in sight.

Rural Midwest hospitals struggling to handle virus surge

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of coronavirus cases in Nebraska is growing at a fast pace, and the state's rate of new infections ranks sixth-highest in the nation.

The state's rate of new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks registered at 514.65 and ranked sixth-highest among all the states on Saturday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.

The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 13.01% on Oct. 3 to 18.02% on Saturday.

Nebraska reported 620 new COVID-19 cases Saturday to give the state 57,334 cases since the pandemic began. The state also reported one additional death on its&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;to give the state 548 deaths.

Nebraska eliminated nearly all of its virus restrictions last month in favor of voluntary guidelines, but Gov. Pete Ricketts announced new restrictions last week because of the recent surge of cases. Starting Wednesday, hospitals will have to reserve 10% of their intensive care beds for COVID-19 patients and people at bars and restaurants will have to remain seated at tables with no more than eight people.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of coronavirus cases in Nebraska is growing at a fast pace, and the state's rate of new infections ranks sixth-highest in the nation.The state's rate of new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks registered at 514.65 and ranked sixth-highest among all the states on Saturday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 13.01% on Oct. 3 to 18.02% on Saturday.Nebraska reported 620 new COVID-19 cases Saturday to give the state 57,334 cases since the pandemic began. The state also reported one additional death on its&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;to give the state 548 deaths.Nebraska eliminated nearly all of its virus restrictions last month in favor of voluntary guidelines, but Gov. Pete Ricketts announced new restrictions last week because of the recent surge of cases. Starting Wednesday, hospitals will have to reserve 10% of their intensive care beds for COVID-19 patients and people at bars and restaurants will have to remain seated at tables with no more than eight people.

Nebraska's rate of new virus cases ranks sixth-highest

LINCOLN, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) arrested a North Platte woman following a brief pursuit on Interstate 80 near Utica Friday evening. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle struck an NSP cruiser in an attempt to avoid arrest.

At approximately 5:30 p.m. Friday, NSP received reports of a possible impaired driver traveling eastbound on I-80 in York County. Two troopers, working in the same patrol unit, located the Chevrolet Tahoe near mile marker 365 and observed numerous traffic violations immediately.

The troopers attempted a traffic stop, but the Tahoe drove into the median and began facing westbound before it stopped. As the troopers exited the patrol vehicle, the Tahoe began driving again and entered westbound I-80. The troopers initiated a pursuit. The Tahoe continued westbound, driving erratically before coming to a stop on the shoulder.

The troopers positioned their patrol vehicle in front of the Tahoe in an attempt to prevent it from reentering I-80. The driver of the Tahoe then drove forward, striking the patrol unit on the passenger side, and turned around to drive eastbound in the westbound lanes. The patrol unit was still able to operate and the troopers again pursued the suspect vehicle. After a short time, the Tahoe drove into the median and came to a stop. The troopers were then able to take the driver into custody without further incident. The entire pursuit was contained between mile markers 365 and 366 and lasted approximately two minutes.

The driver, Debra Pittman, 65, of North Platte, was arrested on suspicion of willful reckless driving, felony flight to avoid arrest, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, hit and run, driving under the influence of alcohol, and numerous traffic violations. Pittman was lodged in Seward County Corrections. Neither trooper was injured in the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602969967563.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) arrested a North Platte woman following a brief pursuit on Interstate 80 near Utica Friday evening. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle struck an NSP cruiser in an attempt to avoid arrest.At approximately 5:30 p.m. Friday, NSP received reports of a possible impaired driver traveling eastbound on I-80 in York County. Two troopers, working in the same patrol unit, located the Chevrolet Tahoe near mile marker 365 and observed numerous traffic violations immediately.The troopers attempted a traffic stop, but the Tahoe drove into the median and began facing westbound before it stopped. As the troopers exited the patrol vehicle, the Tahoe began driving again and entered westbound I-80. The troopers initiated a pursuit. The Tahoe continued westbound, driving erratically before coming to a stop on the shoulder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602969999411.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The troopers positioned their patrol vehicle in front of the Tahoe in an attempt to prevent it from reentering I-80. The driver of the Tahoe then drove forward, striking the patrol unit on the passenger side, and turned around to drive eastbound in the westbound lanes. The patrol unit was still able to operate and the troopers again pursued the suspect vehicle. After a short time, the Tahoe drove into the median and came to a stop. The troopers were then able to take the driver into custody without further incident. The entire pursuit was contained between mile markers 365 and 366 and lasted approximately two minutes.The driver, Debra Pittman, 65, of North Platte, was arrested on suspicion of willful reckless driving, felony flight to avoid arrest, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, hit and run, driving under the influence of alcohol, and numerous traffic violations. Pittman was lodged in Seward County Corrections. Neither trooper was injured in the incident.

North Platte woman accused of striking NSP cruiser during pursuit

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump pushed back Saturday at Sen. Ben Sasse on Twitter, calling the Nebraska senator "a liability to the Republican Party, and an embarrassment" to the state.

The president's Twitter attack came after Sasse told constituents in a telephone town hall Wednesday that Trump has "flirted with white supremacists," mocks Christian evangelicals in private, and "kisses dictators' butts."

Sasse, who is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-senate-elections-omaha-brad-ashford-ben-sasse-caf229e31edaf8ac5df0325d38f49652" target="_blank">running for a second term</a>&nbsp;in a reliably red state and is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-donald-trump-ben-sasse-foreign-policy-nebraska-5685460c463899b469015163b9e369e4" target="_blank">made the comments in response to a question</a>&nbsp;about why he has been willing to publicly criticize a president of his own party. He also criticized Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and said Trump's family has treated the presidency "like a business opportunity."

Trump tweeted that Sasse is "the least effective of our 53 Republican Senators, and a person who truly doesn't have what it takes to be great."

Trump's tirade continued throughout the day as he compared Sasse to former U.S. Sens. Bob Corker of Tennessee and Jeff Flake of Arizona, who left the Senate after combative relationships with the president. Trump suggested perhaps Republicans should find "a new and more viable candidate?"

Trump carried Nebraska by 25 percentage points in 2016.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602428635792.png" alt="White House Photo" />
 <figcaption>White House Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump pushed back Saturday at Sen. Ben Sasse on Twitter, calling the Nebraska senator "a liability to the Republican Party, and an embarrassment" to the state.The president's Twitter attack came after Sasse told constituents in a telephone town hall Wednesday that Trump has "flirted with white supremacists," mocks Christian evangelicals in private, and "kisses dictators' butts."Sasse, who is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-senate-elections-omaha-brad-ashford-ben-sasse-caf229e31edaf8ac5df0325d38f49652" target="_blank">running for a second term</a>&nbsp;in a reliably red state and is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-donald-trump-ben-sasse-foreign-policy-nebraska-5685460c463899b469015163b9e369e4" target="_blank">made the comments in response to a question</a>&nbsp;about why he has been willing to publicly criticize a president of his own party. He also criticized Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and said Trump's family has treated the presidency "like a business opportunity."Trump tweeted that Sasse is "the least effective of our 53 Republican Senators, and a person who truly doesn't have what it takes to be great."Trump's tirade continued throughout the day as he compared Sasse to former U.S. Sens. Bob Corker of Tennessee and Jeff Flake of Arizona, who left the Senate after combative relationships with the president. Trump suggested perhaps Republicans should find "a new and more viable candidate?"Trump carried Nebraska by 25 percentage points in 2016.

Trump: Nebraska Sen. Sasse 'a liability to Republican Party'

10.17.2020 NPHS Volleyball @ Kearney tri

Seniors Tom Moss and Abby Orr were crowned North Platte High School homecoming king and queen Friday at the varsity football game against Millard West.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602933051657.png" alt="Photo:&nbsp;Elsacia Buck, North Platte High Journalism" />
 <figcaption>Photo:&nbsp;Elsacia Buck, North Platte High Journalism</figcaption>
 </figure>Seniors Tom Moss and Abby Orr were crowned North Platte High School homecoming king and queen Friday at the varsity football game against Millard West.

Moss, Orr crowned NPHS Homecoming royalty

Darren D Prickett, 58, North Platte and Tina L Bye, 35, North Platte

Ross L Rivera, 36, North Platte and Stephanie N Gilmore, 34, North Platte

Published October 17, 2020Darren D Prickett, 58, North Platte and Tina L Bye, 35, North PlatteRoss L Rivera, 36, North Platte and Stephanie N Gilmore, 34, North Platte

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts announced new restrictions Friday aimed at curbing the coronavirus amid a surge of new cases and hospitalizations in Nebraska.

<a href="https://omaha.com/livewellnebraska/nebraska-reimposes-some-public-health-restrictions-as-covid-19-cases-soar/article_c2307c0c-ba60-5e05-9994-8ea90bdeb8e9.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">The Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;reported that the Republican governor outlined four steps that will go into effect Wednesday: Hospitals must provide 10% of their bed and intensive care unit space for incoming COVID-19 patients. Indoor gatherings, currently allowed up to 75% percent capacity, must drop to 50% capacity. People at bars and restaurants must remain seated and with no more than eight to a table. And, wedding and funeral receptions must limit table sizes to no more than eight people.

Ricketts stopped short of issuing a statewide mask mandate.

Nebraska is among several Midwestern states that have seen a big increase in confirmed cases of the virus, along with more hospitalizations. The state's COVID-19 dashboard shows 55,428 confirmed cases. The state also has reported 530 deaths.

Ricketts said it "pains me" to impose the restrictions, but he cited a need to protect hospital capacity. He cited the example of Italy, where hospitals became overwhelmed earlier this year as coronavirus cases soared.

The University of Nebraska's athletic director remains hopeful that the Big Ten will change course and allow fans to attend conference football games in 2020.

<a href="https://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/football/moos-says-he-will-continue-to-fight-for-nebraska-fans-to-be-able-to-attend/article_1cbfb33c-7361-5a03-b9bb-2b8456dd1200.html" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported that Athletic Director Bill Moos said Thursday that he will continue to push for a limited number of fans to be allowed in Memorial Stadium this season.

Nebraska opens its season Oct. 24 at Ohio State, and the first home game is against Wisconsin on Oct. 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595077136190.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts announced new restrictions Friday aimed at curbing the coronavirus amid a surge of new cases and hospitalizations in Nebraska.<a href="https://omaha.com/livewellnebraska/nebraska-reimposes-some-public-health-restrictions-as-covid-19-cases-soar/article_c2307c0c-ba60-5e05-9994-8ea90bdeb8e9.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">The Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;reported that the Republican governor outlined four steps that will go into effect Wednesday: Hospitals must provide 10% of their bed and intensive care unit space for incoming COVID-19 patients. Indoor gatherings, currently allowed up to 75% percent capacity, must drop to 50% capacity. People at bars and restaurants must remain seated and with no more than eight to a table. And, wedding and funeral receptions must limit table sizes to no more than eight people.Ricketts stopped short of issuing a statewide mask mandate.Nebraska is among several Midwestern states that have seen a big increase in confirmed cases of the virus, along with more hospitalizations. The state's COVID-19 dashboard shows 55,428 confirmed cases. The state also has reported 530 deaths.Ricketts said it "pains me" to impose the restrictions, but he cited a need to protect hospital capacity. He cited the example of Italy, where hospitals became overwhelmed earlier this year as coronavirus cases soared.FANS AT HUSKER GAMES?The University of Nebraska's athletic director remains hopeful that the Big Ten will change course and allow fans to attend conference football games in 2020.<a href="https://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/football/moos-says-he-will-continue-to-fight-for-nebraska-fans-to-be-able-to-attend/article_1cbfb33c-7361-5a03-b9bb-2b8456dd1200.html" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported that Athletic Director Bill Moos said Thursday that he will continue to push for a limited number of fans to be allowed in Memorial Stadium this season.Nebraska opens its season Oct. 24 at Ohio State, and the first home game is against Wisconsin on Oct. 31.

Governor Ricketts imposes new restrictions as virus surges

NPHS Fundraiser - LIVESTREAM

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska's athletic director remains hopeful that the Big Ten will change course and allow fans to attend conference football games in 2020.

The Big Ten is starting the season later than other major conferences, on Oct. 24.

"I think it's an advantage for us to see what's happening in other areas of the country," Moos said. "Some places are accommodating a larger number of fans. We're going to need some data to fall back on, but I'm going to continue to observe and press for consideration - or reconsideration, I should say - as we move through the season."

Nebraska opens its season Oct. 24 at Ohio State, and the Huskers play their first home game against Wisconsin on Oct. 31.

The season opens as Nebraska and several other states are seeing a big rise in COVID-19 cases. Nebraska's online dashboard shows 55,428 confirmed cases and the state has reported 530 deaths.

Though tickets are not being sold to the public for Big Ten games, parents are allowed to attend at most schools, including Nebraska.

"I would want as many fans in Memorial Stadium as local health authorities would approve," Moos said. "I was hopeful we could be at 25 or 30 percent (of capacity), and maybe even nudge up to 50 percent. We had and still have plans that we feel very comfortable with in regards to the health and safety of our fans, and of course our coaches, players and staff."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602867125783.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska's athletic director remains hopeful that the Big Ten will change course and allow fans to attend conference football games in 2020.<a href="https://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/football/moos-says-he-will-continue-to-fight-for-nebraska-fans-to-be-able-to-attend/article_1cbfb33c-7361-5a03-b9bb-2b8456dd1200.html" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported that Athletic Director Bill Moos said Thursday that he will continue to push for a limited number of fans to be allowed in Memorial Stadium this season.The Big Ten is starting the season later than other major conferences, on Oct. 24."I think it's an advantage for us to see what's happening in other areas of the country," Moos said. "Some places are accommodating a larger number of fans. We're going to need some data to fall back on, but I'm going to continue to observe and press for consideration - or reconsideration, I should say - as we move through the season."Nebraska opens its season Oct. 24 at Ohio State, and the Huskers play their first home game against Wisconsin on Oct. 31.The season opens as Nebraska and several other states are seeing a big rise in COVID-19 cases. Nebraska's online dashboard shows 55,428 confirmed cases and the state has reported 530 deaths.Though tickets are not being sold to the public for Big Ten games, parents are allowed to attend at most schools, including Nebraska."I would want as many fans in Memorial Stadium as local health authorities would approve," Moos said. "I was hopeful we could be at 25 or 30 percent (of capacity), and maybe even nudge up to 50 percent. We had and still have plans that we feel very comfortable with in regards to the health and safety of our fans, and of course our coaches, players and staff."

Nebraska AD still hoping for fans at football games in 2020

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Supreme Court on Friday rejected a challenge to a payday lending measure on the November ballot.

Supporters of the measure, which would cap the annual interest rate on payday loans at 36%, gathered enough signatures to place the proposal on the Nov. 3 ballot. However, a lawsuit argued that when circulators gathered petition signatures, they didn't read the initiative's full object statement to signers.

A Lancaster County District Court judge dismissed the challenge in September, finding affidavits from 188 signers missed a deadline. The judge also found that while the signers claimed circulators hadn't read the initiative's full object statement, the law only requires signers by offered a summary of the petition that isn't misleading.

The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed the district court decision.

The court earlier allowed the initiative to go before voters, and many people already have cast early ballots on the question.

If approved by voters, the limit would change a Nebraska law that now allows lenders to charge as much as 404% annually. Supporters of the measure say such high rates victimizes low-income people and those who don't understanding lending requirements.

Industry officials responded that most loans are short-term, so such high rates are misleading.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Supreme Court on Friday rejected a challenge to a payday lending measure on the November ballot.Supporters of the measure, which would cap the annual interest rate on payday loans at 36%, gathered enough signatures to place the proposal on the Nov. 3 ballot. However, a lawsuit argued that when circulators gathered petition signatures, they didn't read the initiative's full object statement to signers.A Lancaster County District Court judge dismissed the challenge in September, finding affidavits from 188 signers missed a deadline. The judge also found that while the signers claimed circulators hadn't read the initiative's full object statement, the law only requires signers by offered a summary of the petition that isn't misleading.The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed the district court decision.The court earlier allowed the initiative to go before voters, and many people already have cast early ballots on the question.If approved by voters, the limit would change a Nebraska law that now allows lenders to charge as much as 404% annually. Supporters of the measure say such high rates victimizes low-income people and those who don't understanding lending requirements.Industry officials responded that most loans are short-term, so such high rates are misleading.

Nebraska Supreme Court rejects challenge to lending measure

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested, accused of striking a male and a female who was holding a small child.

According to North Platte Police, on October 15 at 9:57 PM officers responded to a residence in the 2800 block of west 16th street on the report of a disturbance. 

Police say officers met with a group of subjects and it was reported that Cornell Griffin had arrived at the residence to speak with his ex-girlfriend. 

Police say it was reported that the 20-year-old female didn't want to speak with him so the owner of the residence, a 24-year-old male, told Griffin to leave.  Griffin reportedly punched the male victim in the face causing injury. 

Witnesses then told police the female came outside holding a 1-year-old child that she and Griffin share in common.  Griffin reportedly struck the female victim in the face causing a bloody lip.  The child was uninjured.

  Griffin was arrested on suspicion of trespassing, domestic assault, a felony based on a prior conviction, misdemeanor assault and child abuse.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested, accused of striking a male and a female who was holding a small child.According to North Platte Police, on October 15 at 9:57 PM officers responded to a residence in the 2800 block of west 16th street on the report of a disturbance. Police say officers met with a group of subjects and it was reported that Cornell Griffin had arrived at the residence to speak with his ex-girlfriend. Police say it was reported that the 20-year-old female didn't want to speak with him so the owner of the residence, a 24-year-old male, told Griffin to leave. Griffin reportedly punched the male victim in the face causing injury. Witnesses then told police the female came outside holding a 1-year-old child that she and Griffin share in common. Griffin reportedly struck the female victim in the face causing a bloody lip. The child was uninjured. Griffin was arrested on suspicion of trespassing, domestic assault, a felony based on a prior conviction, misdemeanor assault and child abuse.&nbsp;

North Platte man accused of punching female holding small child

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-As West Central District Health Department officials raised the Community Risk Dial Thursday evening, North Platte Public Schools officials report a rise in COVID-19 cases among students and staff.

In an electronic message sent to families, school officials reported 50 students and 12 staff members that were "quarantined," and five students and four staff members that have tested positive for COVID-19 as of October 15.

On October 12, officials reported that 28 students and two staff members were quarantined with no confirmed positive cases.

School officials asked families to take time to talk to their students about the following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines:

Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others

Officials also encouraged students to get a flu vaccination.

On Thursday, the West Central District Health Department raised the COVID-19 Community Risk Dial in the Orange or elevated level.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-As West Central District Health Department officials raised the Community Risk Dial Thursday evening, North Platte Public Schools officials report a rise in COVID-19 cases among students and staff.In an electronic message sent to families, school officials reported 50 students and 12 staff members that were "quarantined," and five students and four staff members that have tested positive for COVID-19 as of October 15.On October 12, officials reported that 28 students and two staff members were quarantined with no confirmed positive cases.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602864556359.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>School officials asked families to take time to talk to their students about the following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines:<h2>Know how it spreads</h2><ul>
 <li>There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).</li><li>The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.</li><li>The virus is thought to&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/_ipjFjVWBR0XRUIVNeZRDg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RVaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svaG93LWNvdmlkLXNwcmVhZHMuaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">spread mainly from person-to-person</a>.Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.</li><li>Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).</li><li>Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.</li><li>These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.</li><li>Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.</li>
 </ul><h2>Everyone Should</h2>Wash your hands often<ul>
 <li><a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/4HR7qIwO17xvYcjN5pHIeA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0Q5aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9oYW5kd2FzaGluZy93aGVuLWhvdy1oYW5kd2FzaGluZy5odG1sVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoARi26iV-ZdcCmUhNzY290dHljOTdAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB" target="_blank">Wash your hands</a>&nbsp;often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.</li><li>It’s especially important to wash:Before eating or preparing foodBefore touching your faceAfter using the restroomAfter leaving a public placeAfter blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezingAfter handling your maskAfter changing a diaperAfter caring for someone sickAfter touching animals or pets</li><li>Before eating or preparing food</li><li>Before touching your face</li><li>After using the restroom</li><li>After leaving a public place</li><li>After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing</li><li>After handling your mask</li><li>After changing a diaper</li><li>After caring for someone sick</li><li>After touching animals or pets</li><li><a></a>If soap and water are not readily available,&nbsp;use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.</li><li>Avoid touching&nbsp;your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li>
 </ul><h2>Avoid close contact</h2><ul>
 <li>Inside your home:&nbsp;Avoid close contact with people who are sick.If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.</li><li>If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.</li><li>Outside your home:&nbsp;Put 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household.Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/Dk-sT2zfRUQJHWxORl1xdA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RVaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svc29jaWFsLWRpc3RhbmNpbmcuaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people</a>.Keeping distance from others is especially important for&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/QvL5nTS0GJEgDZvPfTgaEg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0ReaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvbmVlZC1leHRyYS1wcmVjYXV0aW9ucy9wZW9wbGUtYXQtaW5jcmVhc2VkLXJpc2suaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">people who are at higher risk of getting very sick</a>.</li><li>Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.</li><li><a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/Dk-sT2zfRUQJHWxORl1xdA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RVaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svc29jaWFsLWRpc3RhbmNpbmcuaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people</a>.</li><li>Keeping distance from others is especially important for&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/QvL5nTS0GJEgDZvPfTgaEg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0ReaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvbmVlZC1leHRyYS1wcmVjYXV0aW9ucy9wZW9wbGUtYXQtaW5jcmVhc2VkLXJpc2suaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">people who are at higher risk of getting very sick</a>.</li>
 </ul><h2>Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others</h2><ul>
 <li>You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.</li><li>The mask is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.</li><li>Everyone should wear a&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/-ONj8PIoXQnpuWjf9Go5sA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RcaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svZGl5LWNsb3RoLWZhY2UtY292ZXJpbmdzLmh0bWxXB3NjaG9vbG1CCgBGLbqJX5l1wKZSE3Njb3R0eWM5N0BnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">mask</a>&nbsp;in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/Dk-sT2zfRUQJHWxORl1xdA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RVaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svc29jaWFsLWRpc3RhbmNpbmcuaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">social distancing</a>&nbsp;measures are difficult to maintain.Masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.</li><li>Masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.</li><li>Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.</li><li>Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The mask is not a substitute for social distancing.</li>
 </ul><h2>Cover coughs and sneezes</h2><ul>
 <li>Always cover your mouth and nose&nbsp;with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow and do not spit.</li><li>Throw used tissues&nbsp;in the trash.</li><li>Immediately&nbsp;wash your hands&nbsp;with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.</li>
 </ul>Clean and disinfect<ul>
 <li>Clean AND disinfect&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/J3a8V0PgTK9yzzzrUZcmpQ~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RaaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svZGlzaW5mZWN0aW5nLXlvdXItaG9tZS5odG1sVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoARi26iV-ZdcCmUhNzY290dHljOTdAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB" target="_blank">frequently touched surfaces</a>&nbsp;daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.</li><li>If surfaces are dirty, clean them.&nbsp;Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.</li><li>Then, use a household disinfectant.&nbsp;Most common&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/FticJ05SGgO23wcVkdCyWg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RWaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXBhLmdvdi9wZXN0aWNpZGUtcmVnaXN0cmF0aW9uL2xpc3Qtbi1kaXNpbmZlY3RhbnRzLXVzZS1hZ2FpbnN0LXNhcnMtY292LTJXB3NjaG9vbG1CCgBGLbqJX5l1wKZSE3Njb3R0eWM5N0BnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">EPA-registered household disinfectantsexternal icon</a>&nbsp;will work.</li>
 </ul>Monitor Your Health Daily<ul>
 <li>Be alert for symptoms.&nbsp;Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/pQGrvx2sY_JNyrM8eOb0TQ~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RIaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3Yvc3ltcHRvbXMtdGVzdGluZy9zeW1wdG9tcy5odG1sVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoARi26iV-ZdcCmUhNzY290dHljOTdAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB" target="_blank">other symptoms</a>&nbsp;of COVID-19.Especially important if you are&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/0LU4mLRDewYAraa8mZ3yWA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RZaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvZGFpbHktbGlmZS1jb3BpbmcvZXNzZW50aWFsLWdvb2RzLXNlcnZpY2VzLmh0bWxXB3NjaG9vbG1CCgBGLbqJX5l1wKZSE3Njb3R0eWM5N0BnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">running essential errands</a>, going into the office or workplace, and in settings where it may be difficult to keep a&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/Dk-sT2zfRUQJHWxORl1xdA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RVaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svc29jaWFsLWRpc3RhbmNpbmcuaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">physical distance of 6 feet</a>.</li><li>Especially important if you are&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/0LU4mLRDewYAraa8mZ3yWA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RZaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvZGFpbHktbGlmZS1jb3BpbmcvZXNzZW50aWFsLWdvb2RzLXNlcnZpY2VzLmh0bWxXB3NjaG9vbG1CCgBGLbqJX5l1wKZSE3Njb3R0eWM5N0BnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">running essential errands</a>, going into the office or workplace, and in settings where it may be difficult to keep a&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/Dk-sT2zfRUQJHWxORl1xdA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0RVaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvcHJldmVudC1nZXR0aW5nLXNpY2svc29jaWFsLWRpc3RhbmNpbmcuaHRtbFcHc2Nob29sbUIKAEYtuolfmXXAplITc2NvdHR5Yzk3QGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ~~" target="_blank">physical distance of 6 feet</a>.</li><li>Take your temperature&nbsp;if symptoms develop.Don’t take your temperature within 30 minutes of exercising or after taking medications that could lower your temperature, like acetaminophen.</li><li>Don’t take your temperature within 30 minutes of exercising or after taking medications that could lower your temperature, like acetaminophen.</li><li>Follow&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/D_vmQzCc6LfU7juNF8RqBg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRhau2tP0ROaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2RjLmdvdi9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy8yMDE5LW5jb3YvaWYteW91LWFyZS1zaWNrL3N0ZXBzLXdoZW4tc2ljay5odG1sVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoARi26iV-ZdcCmUhNzY290dHljOTdAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB" target="_blank">CDC guidance</a>&nbsp;if symptoms develop.</li>
 </ul>Officials also encouraged students to get a flu vaccination.On Thursday, the West Central District Health Department raised the COVID-19 Community Risk Dial in the Orange or elevated level.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602814560966.png" alt="As of October 15, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of October 15, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte Public Schools report 'uptick' in COVID cases

10.16.2020 NPHS Football vs Millard West - LIVESTREAM 

NDOT reports 25 deaths on Nebraska roadways in September 

<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/911648191&color=%232a1bd9&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1" title="eagleradio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">eagleradio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eagleradio-1/1016-jordan-cudney" title="10.16 Jordan Cudney Radio a thon" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">10.16 Jordan Cudney Radio a thon</a></div></div>

NPHS Fundraiser: Interview with Jordan Cudney


The risk dial moved from a 2.35 up to a 2.88 this week, which remains
within the elevated risk level. There were changes in the following
variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:

Your partnership and collaboration in
identifying close contacts is significant in mitigating the spread of
COVID-19, bringing our community to a lower risk of spread. 


The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is reviewed by the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted to:
and the WCDHD Facebook page.

<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">COVID-19 Risk Dial&nbsp;</a>

For COVID-19 case number updates within
the West Central District Health Department Jurisdiction, check the
<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation">WCDHD Dashboard&nbsp;</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602814560966.png" alt="As of October 15, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of October 15, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release WCDHD
The risk dial moved from a 2.35 up to a 2.88 this week, which remains
within the elevated risk level. There were changes in the following
variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:We had an increase in the following:<ul>
 <li>Measure ID R0: Positivity Rate
	(Overall)
	</li><li>Measure ID R1: Positivity Rate
	(Weekly)
	</li><li>Measure ID R3: Case Rate per
	Million
	</li><li>Measure ID R4: Average Daily
	Hospitalization
	</li><li>Measure ID R6: Ventilator
	Availability
	</li><li>Measure ID R7: Community Spread
	</li><li>Measure ID R10: Contact Tracing
	</li><li>Measure ID R11: Individuals
	Affected
</li>
 </ul>Your partnership and collaboration in
identifying close contacts is significant in mitigating the spread of
COVID-19, bringing our community to a lower risk of spread. 
The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is reviewed by the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted to:
and the WCDHD Facebook page.<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">COVID-19 Risk Dial&nbsp;</a>For COVID-19 case number updates within
the West Central District Health Department Jurisdiction, check the
<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation">WCDHD Dashboard&nbsp;</a>.

WCHD raises COVID Risk Dial, reports 'surge' in cases for 3rd straight week

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved sportfishing orders at its meeting Oct. 15 in Ogallala.

Approved sport fishing amendments include orders for two reservoirs under construction in Sarpy County – Big Elk Lake and WP-6. Each will be stocked only with smallmouth bass and yellow perch to create a unique fishery in southeast Nebraska.

Big Elk Lake and WP-6 each will have a smallmouth daily bag limit of two and maximum length limit of 12 inches to protect larger fish and allow harvest of smaller fish. The daily bag limit for yellow perch will be five.

The 13-acre Big Elk Lake and 34-acre WP-6 are Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District reservoirs located east of Prairie Queen Recreation Area.

• The addition of an exception for Pelican Lake on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge for muskie and tiger muskie that the daily bag limit of three not include more than one fish 34 inches or greater in length. A possession limit of three also is established for those species at Pelican Lake.

• Fishing will be permitted at Crane Lake on Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge during daylight hours from Nov. 1 through Feb. 15.

• There no longer is a 34-inch minimum length limit in place on northern pike at Hershey I-80 Lake WMA.

• created Commission orders for wild turkey, which would contain season dates, bag limits, number of permits, shooting hours and areas open;

• removed the nonresident paddlefish permit fee increase from regulations approved at the August meeting;

• approved the acquisition of approximately 58 acres in Kearney County adjacent to Fort Kearny State Recreation Area as an addition to the area; and

• approved the acquisition of two small tracts totaling approximately 6 acres in Cherry County adjacent to Chat Canyon Wildlife Management Area as an addition to the area.

In addition, the commissioners approved their 2021 meeting schedule as follows: Jan. 12-13, Lincoln; March 16-17, Norfolk; April 19-20, Niobrara; June, TBA, Chadron; Aug. 26-27, Scottsbluff; and Oct. 21-22, North Platte.

Staff also gave updates on Lake McConaughy, bighorn sheep and the Berggren Plan for Pheasants.

There also were staff environmental updates on the Battle Creek Flood Risk Reduction Project, the Missouri River Planning Assistance to State Study, and the Platte-Republican Diversion.

Game and Parks enjoys great partnerships in Keith County regarding Lake McConaughy, so the commissioners presented separate Resolutions of Appreciation to Keith County Emergency Personnel and First Responders, the Lake McConaughy Advisory Committee, and the Keith County Visitors Committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602812150110.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved sportfishing orders at its meeting Oct. 15 in Ogallala.Approved sport fishing amendments include orders for two reservoirs under construction in Sarpy County – Big Elk Lake and WP-6. Each will be stocked only with smallmouth bass and yellow perch to create a unique fishery in southeast Nebraska.Big Elk Lake and WP-6 each will have a smallmouth daily bag limit of two and maximum length limit of 12 inches to protect larger fish and allow harvest of smaller fish. The daily bag limit for yellow perch will be five.The 13-acre Big Elk Lake and 34-acre WP-6 are Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District reservoirs located east of Prairie Queen Recreation Area.Other sport fishing changes are:• The addition of an exception for Pelican Lake on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge for muskie and tiger muskie that the daily bag limit of three not include more than one fish 34 inches or greater in length. A possession limit of three also is established for those species at Pelican Lake.• Fishing will be permitted at Crane Lake on Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge during daylight hours from Nov. 1 through Feb. 15.• There no longer is a 34-inch minimum length limit in place on northern pike at Hershey I-80 Lake WMA.The Commission also:• created Commission orders for wild turkey, which would contain season dates, bag limits, number of permits, shooting hours and areas open;• removed the nonresident paddlefish permit fee increase from regulations approved at the August meeting;• approved the acquisition of approximately 58 acres in Kearney County adjacent to Fort Kearny State Recreation Area as an addition to the area; and• approved the acquisition of two small tracts totaling approximately 6 acres in Cherry County adjacent to Chat Canyon Wildlife Management Area as an addition to the area.In addition, the commissioners approved their 2021 meeting schedule as follows: Jan. 12-13, Lincoln; March 16-17, Norfolk; April 19-20, Niobrara; June, TBA, Chadron; Aug. 26-27, Scottsbluff; and Oct. 21-22, North Platte.Staff also gave updates on Lake McConaughy, bighorn sheep and the Berggren Plan for Pheasants.There also were staff environmental updates on the Battle Creek Flood Risk Reduction Project, the Missouri River Planning Assistance to State Study, and the Platte-Republican Diversion.Game and Parks enjoys great partnerships in Keith County regarding Lake McConaughy, so the commissioners presented separate Resolutions of Appreciation to Keith County Emergency Personnel and First Responders, the Lake McConaughy Advisory Committee, and the Keith County Visitors Committee.

Commissioners approve sport fishing orders

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Bankers in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states are showing more enthusiasm for the state of their local economies than they have since the coronavirus pandemic began, according to a new monthly survey of bankers in the region.

The Rural Mainstreet Survey's overall index surged to 53.2 in October, up from 46.9. in September and well ahead of the 35.5 reading in March, when the index bottomed out as the outbreak began. Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy, while a score below 50 suggests a shrinking economy.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, credited recent improvements in agriculture commodity prices, federal farm support, and the Federal Reserve's record low interest.

"Still, more than one-third, or 35.5%, of bank CEOs reported their local economies were experiencing recessionary economic conditions," Goss said.

Bankers were also asked this month to identify the industry in their area most harmed by the pandemic. More than eight of 10, named restaurants and bars as experiencing the greatest negative effects from the pandemic.

More bankers showed optimism about the economy's outlook over the next six months, with the survey's confidence index rising to 51.6 from September's 50.

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

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Bankers in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states are showing more enthusiasm for the state of their local economies than they have since the coronavirus pandemic began, according to a new monthly survey of bankers in the region.The Rural Mainstreet Survey's overall index surged to 53.2 in October, up from 46.9. in September and well ahead of the 35.5 reading in March, when the index bottomed out as the outbreak began. Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy, while a score below 50 suggests a shrinking economy.Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, credited recent improvements in agriculture commodity prices, federal farm support, and the Federal Reserve's record low interest."Still, more than one-third, or 35.5%, of bank CEOs reported their local economies were experiencing recessionary economic conditions," Goss said.Bankers were also asked this month to identify the industry in their area most harmed by the pandemic. More than eight of 10, named restaurants and bars as experiencing the greatest negative effects from the pandemic.More bankers showed optimism about the economy's outlook over the next six months, with the survey's confidence index rising to 51.6 from September's 50.Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

Bankers survey sees surge in rural parts of 10 states

WASHINGTON (AP) - Republican U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse told Nebraska constituents in a telephone town hall meeting that President Donald Trump has "flirted with white supremacists," mocks Christian evangelicals in private, and "kisses dictators' butts."

Sasse, who is running for a second term representing the reliably red state, made the comments in response to a question about why he has been willing to publicly criticize a president of his own party. He also criticized Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and said Trump's family has treated the presidency "like a business opportunity."

The comments were first reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/exclusive-gop-sen-sasse-says-trump-kisses-dictators-butts-mocks-evangelicals" target="_blank">the Washington Examiner</a>&nbsp;after it obtained an audio recording of the senator's comments, which has been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMEZzNZgDZQ&amp;feature=emb_logo" target="_blank">posted on YouTube.</a>&nbsp;Sasse spokesman James Wegmann said the call occurred Wednesday.

Two other Nebraska Republicans, U.S. Rep. Dan Bacon and state GOP executive director Ryan Hamilton,&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/trump-kisses-dictators-butts-and-mocks-evangelicals-sasse-says-in-call-with-constituents/article_e66917d7-be24-5e88-a656-c8a0ae8ef63a.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">told the Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;that they disagree with Sasse's characterizations of the president.

"Senator Sasse is entitled to his own opinion," U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, another Nebraska Republican, said in a statement. "I appreciate what President Trump has accomplished for our country and will continue to work with him on efforts which help Nebraska."

Trump campaign spokesman Tim Murtaugh declined to comment on Sasse's comments, the World-Herald said.

Sasse has positioned himself as a conservative willing to criticize Trump, and he is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024. His comments Wednesday were in response to a caller who asked about his relationship with the president, adding, "Why do you have to criticize him so much?" Trump carried Nebraska by 25 percentage points in 2016.

The senator said he has worked hard to have a good relationship with Trump and prays for the president regularly "at the breakfast table in our house." He praised Trump's judicial appointments.

But he said he's had disagreements with Trump that do not involve "mere policy issues," adding, "I'm not at all apologetic for having fought for my values against his in places where I think his are deficient, not just for a Republican, but for an American."

Sasse began his list with, "The way he kisses dictators' butts," and said Trump "hasn't lifted a finger" on behalf of pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.

"I mean, he and I have a very different foreign policy," Sasse said. "It isn't just that he fails to lead our allies. It's that we - the United States - regularly sells out our allies under his leadership."

Sasse said he criticizes Trump for how he treats women and because Trump "spends like a drunken sailor," saying he criticized Democratic President Barack Obama over spending.

"He mocks evangelicals behind closed doors," Sasse said. "At the beginning of the COVID crisis, he refused to treat it seriously. For months, he treated it like a news cycle-by-news cycle PR crisis rather than a multi-year public health challenge, which is what it is."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564937419455.png" alt="Ben Sasse" />
 <figcaption>Ben Sasse</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) - Republican U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse told Nebraska constituents in a telephone town hall meeting that President Donald Trump has "flirted with white supremacists," mocks Christian evangelicals in private, and "kisses dictators' butts."Sasse, who is running for a second term representing the reliably red state, made the comments in response to a question about why he has been willing to publicly criticize a president of his own party. He also criticized Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and said Trump's family has treated the presidency "like a business opportunity."The comments were first reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/exclusive-gop-sen-sasse-says-trump-kisses-dictators-butts-mocks-evangelicals" target="_blank">the Washington Examiner</a>&nbsp;after it obtained an audio recording of the senator's comments, which has been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMEZzNZgDZQ&amp;feature=emb_logo" target="_blank">posted on YouTube.</a>&nbsp;Sasse spokesman James Wegmann said the call occurred Wednesday.Two other Nebraska Republicans, U.S. Rep. Dan Bacon and state GOP executive director Ryan Hamilton,&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/trump-kisses-dictators-butts-and-mocks-evangelicals-sasse-says-in-call-with-constituents/article_e66917d7-be24-5e88-a656-c8a0ae8ef63a.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">told the Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;that they disagree with Sasse's characterizations of the president."Senator Sasse is entitled to his own opinion," U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, another Nebraska Republican, said in a statement. "I appreciate what President Trump has accomplished for our country and will continue to work with him on efforts which help Nebraska."Trump campaign spokesman Tim Murtaugh declined to comment on Sasse's comments, the World-Herald said.Sasse has positioned himself as a conservative willing to criticize Trump, and he is seen as a potential presidential candidate for 2024. His comments Wednesday were in response to a caller who asked about his relationship with the president, adding, "Why do you have to criticize him so much?" Trump carried Nebraska by 25 percentage points in 2016.The senator said he has worked hard to have a good relationship with Trump and prays for the president regularly "at the breakfast table in our house." He praised Trump's judicial appointments.But he said he's had disagreements with Trump that do not involve "mere policy issues," adding, "I'm not at all apologetic for having fought for my values against his in places where I think his are deficient, not just for a Republican, but for an American."Sasse began his list with, "The way he kisses dictators' butts," and said Trump "hasn't lifted a finger" on behalf of pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong."I mean, he and I have a very different foreign policy," Sasse said. "It isn't just that he fails to lead our allies. It's that we - the United States - regularly sells out our allies under his leadership."Sasse said he criticizes Trump for how he treats women and because Trump "spends like a drunken sailor," saying he criticized Democratic President Barack Obama over spending."He mocks evangelicals behind closed doors," Sasse said. "At the beginning of the COVID crisis, he refused to treat it seriously. For months, he treated it like a news cycle-by-news cycle PR crisis rather than a multi-year public health challenge, which is what it is."

Nebraska Sen. Sasse rips Trump over COVID-19, foreign policy

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested two people after locating 60 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop near Darr.

At approximately 2:25 p.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed a Ford Fusion fail to signal a turn after it exited I-80 at mile marker 231. During the traffic stop, an NSP K9 detected the presence of a controlled substance coming from inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed 60 pounds of marijuana contained in bags in the trunk of the vehicle.

The driver, Christopher Ryan-Goetze, 30, and passenger, Hannah Umpstead, 24, both of Denver, Colorado, were arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to distribute, and no drug tax stamp.

Both persons were lodged in Dawson County Jail.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (NSP)-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested two people after locating 60 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop near Darr.At approximately 2:25 p.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed a Ford Fusion fail to signal a turn after it exited I-80 at mile marker 231. During the traffic stop, an NSP K9 detected the presence of a controlled substance coming from inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed 60 pounds of marijuana contained in bags in the trunk of the vehicle.The driver, Christopher Ryan-Goetze, 30, and passenger, Hannah Umpstead, 24, both of Denver, Colorado, were arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to distribute, and no drug tax stamp.Both persons were lodged in Dawson County Jail.

Troopers find 60 pounds of marijuana during Dawson County traffic stop

KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - A Nebraska man has been convicted of animal cruelty for attacking his dog with a baseball bat, killing it and burying it in his backyard.

Khaleem Baringer, 21, of Kearney pleaded no contest Tuesday to the felony charge as part of a deal with prosecutors who agreed to drop another charge in the case.

A witness told police Baringer hit the dog several times in the head with the bat after it defecated on the floor and nipped at a woman as she tried to place the dog into a kennel.

Prosecutors said Baringer also stabbed the dog at least once before wrapping it in several towels and burying it behind a shed in the yard.

Police found blood spatter on the wall and window of the master bedroom, in the bathroom, and inside and outside of a trash can. Authorities say the dog's skull and jaw were broken when its body was examined.

Baringer will face up to three years in prison when he is sentenced.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602801073423.png" alt="Khaleem Baringer" />
 <figcaption>Khaleem Baringer</figcaption>
 </figure>KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - A Nebraska man has been convicted of animal cruelty for attacking his dog with a baseball bat, killing it and burying it in his backyard.Khaleem Baringer, 21, of Kearney pleaded no contest Tuesday to the felony charge as part of a deal with prosecutors who agreed to drop another charge in the case.A witness told police Baringer hit the dog several times in the head with the bat after it defecated on the floor and nipped at a woman as she tried to place the dog into a kennel.Prosecutors said Baringer also stabbed the dog at least once before wrapping it in several towels and burying it behind a shed in the yard.Police found blood spatter on the wall and window of the master bedroom, in the bathroom, and inside and outside of a trash can. Authorities say the dog's skull and jaw were broken when its body was examined.Baringer will face up to three years in prison when he is sentenced.

Kearney man found guilty of beating and stabbing his dog

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested Wednesday following the pursuit of a stolen vehicle.

According to police, on October 14 at 12:30 AM an officer observed a tan 1990 Ford Taurus stopped at 6th and Poplar Streets. 

Police say the vehicle had Adams County plates and the officer was aware of a vehicle matching that description that was stolen out of Kearney. 

 The officer was able to confirm the vehicle was in fact stolen and followed the vehicle to the area of 7th and Bailey Streets at which time a traffic stop was attempted. 

Police say the vehicle sped up and traveled west on 7th Street, under the Willow viaduct, and continued westbound at around 70 mph.&nbsp; 7th Street curves to the north and ends or becomes Adams Street. 

 When the suspect came to the curve the vehicle continued westbound off the road and into a field.  Officers followed, disabling one of their cruisers.  

Police say a second cruiser located the suspect vehicle abandoned in the field a short time later.  A perimeter was set up with the assistance of the Nebraska State Patrol and Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. 

According to police, while searching the perimeter officers observed the suspect running, and entering an occupied residence in the 2000 block of West 9th Street.  Officers followed and were able to arrest the suspect, Joseph Olsson, inside of the residence without further incident.  

Olsson was arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property, reckless driving, and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602781179212.jpeg" alt="Joseph Olsson" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Olsson</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man was arrested Wednesday following the pursuit of a stolen vehicle.According to police, on October 14 at 12:30 AM an officer observed a tan 1990 Ford Taurus stopped at 6th and Poplar Streets. Police say the vehicle had Adams County plates and the officer was aware of a vehicle matching that description that was stolen out of Kearney. The officer was able to confirm the vehicle was in fact stolen and followed the vehicle to the area of 7th and Bailey Streets at which time a traffic stop was attempted. Police say the vehicle sped up and traveled west on 7th Street, under the Willow viaduct, and continued westbound at around 70 mph.&nbsp; 7th Street curves to the north and ends or becomes Adams Street. When the suspect came to the curve the vehicle continued westbound off the road and into a field. Officers followed, disabling one of their cruisers. Police say a second cruiser located the suspect vehicle abandoned in the field a short time later. A perimeter was set up with the assistance of the Nebraska State Patrol and Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. According to police, while searching the perimeter officers observed the suspect running, and entering an occupied residence in the 2000 block of West 9th Street. Officers followed and were able to arrest the suspect, Joseph Olsson, inside of the residence without further incident. Olsson was arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property, reckless driving, and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602781134825.png" alt="The red line shows the route of the pursuit." />
 <figcaption>The red line shows the route of the pursuit.</figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte man arrested following high-speed pursuit of stolen vehicle

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska reported nearly 1,000 new cases of the coronavirus, and doctors in rural areas expressed concern about the high rate of infections across the state.

Nebraska's positivity rate ranked sixth-highest among the states. The state's rate of new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks registered at 461.47 on Wednesday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.

Dr. Rebecca Steinke, who is medical director of the Central District Health Department in Grand Island, said virus cases in that area have been rising in the past few days, so it's important that people take precautions.

"I know people are tired of being told to wear a mask, and they don't want a (mask) mandate," she told&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/nebraskas-number-of-new-covid-19-cases-continues-to-rise-at-record-setting-pace/article_a1c5f65a-7ae3-5b87-8a13-cac4cd0ec47f.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">the Omaha World-Herald</a>. "But they also want their kids in school and their businesses open."

Dr. Jenn Harney, a family doctor with Memorial Community Health in Aurora, said a number of people in her community who don't think COVID-19 is a problem in rural areas have not been taking precautions. She said she hopes that will change.

"That's what I am asking of rural Nebraska," she said. "Help us slow the spread and move the curve back down so we can get ahead of coronavirus and protect our people."

Harney said the hospital in Aurora is finding it increasingly difficult to find a larger hospital that will accept critically ill patients who need to be transferred.

Officials with the state's largest hospitals have said they still have capacity to manage the recent surge in COVID-19 cases.

Nebraska eliminated most of its virus restrictions last month in favor of voluntary guidelines. Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts has said state officials are monitoring the number of virus cases and hospitalizations closely as both remain near record levels, and they will make changes to the state's approach if needed.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska reported nearly 1,000 new cases of the coronavirus, and doctors in rural areas expressed concern about the high rate of infections across the state.Nebraska's positivity rate ranked sixth-highest among the states. The state's rate of new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks registered at 461.47 on Wednesday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.Dr. Rebecca Steinke, who is medical director of the Central District Health Department in Grand Island, said virus cases in that area have been rising in the past few days, so it's important that people take precautions."I know people are tired of being told to wear a mask, and they don't want a (mask) mandate," she told&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/nebraskas-number-of-new-covid-19-cases-continues-to-rise-at-record-setting-pace/article_a1c5f65a-7ae3-5b87-8a13-cac4cd0ec47f.html#tracking-source=home-top-story" target="_blank">the Omaha World-Herald</a>. "But they also want their kids in school and their businesses open."Dr. Jenn Harney, a family doctor with Memorial Community Health in Aurora, said a number of people in her community who don't think COVID-19 is a problem in rural areas have not been taking precautions. She said she hopes that will change."That's what I am asking of rural Nebraska," she said. "Help us slow the spread and move the curve back down so we can get ahead of coronavirus and protect our people."Harney said the hospital in Aurora is finding it increasingly difficult to find a larger hospital that will accept critically ill patients who need to be transferred.Officials with the state's largest hospitals have said they still have capacity to manage the recent surge in COVID-19 cases.Nebraska eliminated most of its virus restrictions last month in favor of voluntary guidelines. Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts has said state officials are monitoring the number of virus cases and hospitalizations closely as both remain near record levels, and they will make changes to the state's approach if needed.State health officials reported 924 new cases of COVID-19 and three new deaths Wednesday to give the state 54,467 cases and 530 deaths linked to the virus since the pandemic began. That is just under the daily record of 1,085 cases reported last Friday, 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 in Nebraska also remained high at 311 Wednesday - just under the previous day's record of 315. State officials said 26% of all hospital beds, 24% of the intensive care beds and 76% of the ventilators remained available across Nebraska.The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska climbed over the past two weeks from 13.28% on Sept. 30 to 14.32% on Wednesday.

Local