LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced the award of more than $29.5 million in funding under the Remote Access Rural Broadband Grant program, administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).&nbsp;

“These grants will lead to better broadband service in many areas of the state that are currently underserved,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“The enhanced service will equip more of our rural communities with the technology needed to conduct business online, make virtual health visits, and engage in distance learning opportunities.”

The Broadband program was one of four grants designed and administered by DED this year to support the state’s economic recovery in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

“COVID-19 has underscored the need for a more concentrated, collaborative effort to improve our state’s broadband infrastructure,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins.&nbsp; “This grant is an important first step toward ensuring all citizens of Nebraska have the opportunity to participate in the digital economy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Broadband grant opportunity—made possible by federal CARES Act funding, including $1.08 billion of Coronavirus Relief funds allocated to the State of Nebraska—was announced by DED last spring. &nbsp;The grants target areas of the state where high speed internet service is nonexistent or subpar based on the FCC standard of 25/3 Mbps download/upload speeds. &nbsp;

When all projects are completed, a minimum of 17,600 housing units will gain the ability to subscribe to broadband internet service.&nbsp; Most of the projects being awarded are scheduled for completion by the end of the year, with controls in place to ensure agreements are executed as planned in a timely manner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The recipients of the Rural Broadband Remote Access Grants are listed below:

2020 Remote Access Rural Broadband Recipients

Units Approved = Minimum housing units newly capable of subscribing to broadband following project completion.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 169&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 223&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 186&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 12&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 25&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 19&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 100&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 26&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 90&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 31&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 638&nbsp;

Buffalo County (Block Group 1 - RDOF Area)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 400&nbsp;

Buffalo County (Block Group 4 - RDOF Area)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 116&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 361&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 89&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 483&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 128&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 28&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 384&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 748&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 475&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced the award of more than $29.5 million in funding under the Remote Access Rural Broadband Grant program, administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).&nbsp;“These grants will lead to better broadband service in many areas of the state that are currently underserved,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“The enhanced service will equip more of our rural communities with the technology needed to conduct business online, make virtual health visits, and engage in distance learning opportunities.”The Broadband program was one of four grants designed and administered by DED this year to support the state’s economic recovery in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.“COVID-19 has underscored the need for a more concentrated, collaborative effort to improve our state’s broadband infrastructure,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins.&nbsp; “This grant is an important first step toward ensuring all citizens of Nebraska have the opportunity to participate in the digital economy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Broadband grant opportunity—made possible by federal CARES Act funding, including $1.08 billion of Coronavirus Relief funds allocated to the State of Nebraska—was announced by DED last spring. &nbsp;The grants target areas of the state where high speed internet service is nonexistent or subpar based on the FCC standard of 25/3 Mbps download/upload speeds. &nbsp;When all projects are completed, a minimum of 17,600 housing units will gain the ability to subscribe to broadband internet service.&nbsp; Most of the projects being awarded are scheduled for completion by the end of the year, with controls in place to ensure agreements are executed as planned in a timely manner.&nbsp;&nbsp;The recipients of the Rural Broadband Remote Access Grants are listed below:2020 Remote Access Rural Broadband RecipientsRDOF = Rural Digital Opportunity FundUnits Approved = Minimum housing units newly capable of subscribing to broadband following project completion.&nbsp;ATC CommunicationsArapahoe&nbsp;$512,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 169&nbsp;Bluestem Network LLCPleasant Dale (Rural RDOF Area)&nbsp;$658,965&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 223&nbsp;Charter Communications, Inc.Brule&nbsp;$141,400&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 186&nbsp;Consolidated Telephone Company, Inc.Dunning (Rural)&nbsp;$39,694&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 12&nbsp;Consolidated Telephone Company, Inc.Hyannis (Rural)&nbsp;$151,734&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 25&nbsp;Consolidated Telephone Company, Inc.Seneca (Rural)&nbsp;$151,145&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 19&nbsp;Country Mile Wireless, IncCedar Creek&nbsp;$89,439&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 100&nbsp;Country Mile Wireless, IncCedar Creek (Rural RDOF Area)&nbsp;$138,605&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 100&nbsp;Diode CommunicationsBeatrice (Pioneer Acres)&nbsp;$117,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 26&nbsp;Diode CommunicationsBeatrice (Rural Southwest RDOF Area)&nbsp;$756,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 90&nbsp;Diode CommunicationsHolmesville&nbsp;$130,786&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 31&nbsp;USA Communications, LLCAtkinson&nbsp;$580,798&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 638&nbsp;USA Communications, LLCBuffalo County (Block Group 1 - RDOF Area)&nbsp;$1,441,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 400&nbsp;USA Communications, LLCBuffalo County (Block Group 4 - RDOF Area)&nbsp;$400,720&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 116&nbsp;USA Communications, LLCElwood&nbsp;$281,206&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 361&nbsp;USA Communications, LLCKearney (Antelope Ridge Development)&nbsp;$173,410&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 89&nbsp;Glenwood Telecommunications, Inc.Franklin&nbsp;$724,500&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 483&nbsp;Glenwood Telecommunications, Inc.Franklin (RDOF Area)&nbsp;$554,657&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 128&nbsp;Glenwood Telecommunications, Inc.Guide Rock&nbsp;$403,443&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 28&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsCallaway&nbsp;$650,753&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 384&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsCreighton&nbsp;$1,707,081&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 748&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsDeshler&nbsp;$744,641&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 475&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsGordon&nbsp;$1,507,733&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1,009&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsNorth Bend&nbsp;$1,142,709&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 768&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsRed Cloud&nbsp;$2,018,372&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 796&nbsp;Great Plains CommunicationsSutherland&nbsp;$1,134,424&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 608&nbsp;Hamilton Telecommunications&nbsp;Merrick County&nbsp;$687,500&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 250&nbsp;Infinity 8 BroadbandRural Hickman&nbsp;$147,279&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 68&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamBanner County&nbsp;$183,248&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 125&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamChase County&nbsp;$207,885&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 225&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamCheyenne County&nbsp;$228,044&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 140&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamDeuel County&nbsp;$131,178&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 200&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamGarden County&nbsp;$195,613&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 200&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamKimball County&nbsp;$168,316&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 180&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamMorrill County&nbsp;$147,245&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 125&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamPerkins County&nbsp;$198,229&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 225&nbsp;Inventive Wireless of Nebraska, LLC dba VistabeamScotts Bluff County&nbsp;$396,563&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 450&nbsp;Media King CommunicationsMacy&nbsp;$115,954&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 230&nbsp;Mobius Communications CompanyAlliance (Westside Event Center)&nbsp;$52,800&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4&nbsp;Mobius Communications CompanyAlliance Airport&nbsp;$122,720&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 26&nbsp;Mobius Communications CompanyBox Butte (RDOF Area)&nbsp;$308,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 22&nbsp;Mobius Communications CompanyBox Butte County&nbsp;$272,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 23&nbsp;Mobius Communications CompanyDawes County (RDOF Area)&nbsp;$320,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 26&nbsp;NE Colorado Cellular, Inc.Champion&nbsp;$639,794&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 50&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Alma&nbsp;$672,760&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 700&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Alma (Rural RDOF Area)&nbsp;$216,592&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 143&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Beaver City&nbsp;$395,758&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 435&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Beaver City (Rural RDOF Area)&nbsp;$355,008&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 132&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Orleans (Rural RDOF Area)&nbsp;$238,896&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 159&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Republican City&nbsp;$271,520&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 227&nbsp;Pinpoint Communications Inc.Republican City (Rural RDOF Area)&nbsp;$261,664&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 256&nbsp;Skywave Wireless, Inc.Tri-County (Cuming, Dodge, Burt)&nbsp;$531,397&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 543&nbsp;Spiral CommunicationsUnion (Lake Waconda)&nbsp;$34,536&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 220&nbsp;Three River TelcoAinsworth&nbsp;$408,500&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1,120&nbsp;Three River TelcoO'Neill&nbsp;$350,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 2,073&nbsp;Windstream Nebraska, Inc.Rural Ashland&nbsp;$1,275,499&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 345&nbsp;Windstream Nebraska, Inc.Rural Garrison&nbsp;$802,295&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 38&nbsp;Windstream Nebraska, Inc.Rural Geneva&nbsp;$880,752&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 244&nbsp;Windstream Nebraska, Inc.Rural Hebron&nbsp;$650,957&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 145&nbsp;Windstream Nebraska, Inc.Rural Louisville&nbsp;$1,307,901&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 239&nbsp;Total$29,528,62017,600Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/broadband-grant/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/broadband-grant</a>&nbsp;for more info. &nbsp;To learn more about how Nebraska’s federal Coronavirus Relief funds are being used, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/relief-fund" target="_blank">coronavirus.nebraska.gov/relief-fund</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces recipients of rural broadband grants

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-It's hard to believe, but the 2020 General Election is just around the corner and Lincoln County Election officials have announced some changes to polling places in the interest of health and safety, and due to the Presidential race.

According to Lincoln County Clerk/Election Commissioner Rebecca Rossell, the changes have been approved by the Nebraska Secretary of State, as required under state law. Additionally, Rossell says all state and local candidates affected by the changes have been notified by mail. Rossell says voters can expect to receive a credit card by mail towards the end of October.

According to Rossell, only about 25 percent of the registered voters in Lincoln County have requested an early ballot as of October 8. Rossell compared this to the 42 percent that voted early in the May Primary Election.

Because of this, Rossell expects polling places to be busy, especially with 2020 being a Presidential election year.

"To accommodate more voters, and for health reasons, I decided the best plan would be to move voters back to their regular permanent polling places if they were available," Rossell said.

Changes were also made in the rural areas of Lincoln County. Included in those changes, Hershey voters will now vote at the American Legion Post as the Hershey Senior Center building has been sold.

A full list of the polling places in Lincoln County can be found below.

2020 GENERAL ELECTION
POLLING PLACES

1ST…………….	CALVARY
BAPTIST CHURCH……………………………...	900 EAST 2ND

2ND
……………D &amp; N EVENT CENTER………………………………………501
E WALKER RD

3rd
……………MC
KINLEY EDUCATION CENTER-SOUTH DOOR……...F AND WILLOW

4TH
……………HOLIDAY INN EXP CONFERENCE CTR-EAST DR………300
HOLIDAY FRTG RD

5TH……………D
&amp; N EVENT CENTER………………………………………...501
E WALKER RD

6TH……………D
&amp; N EVENT CENTER…………………………………………501
E WALKER RD

7TH
.………….GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH-WEST DOOR…………....1021 S
BUFFALO

8TH……………MESSIAH
LUTHERAN CHURCH-NORTH DOOR..………..2700 WEST A ST.

9TH……………MESSIAH
LUTHERAN CHURCH-WEST DOOR.…………..2700 WEST A ST.

10TH…………..FIRST
BAPTIST CHURCH-NORTH DOOR…………………100 MCDONALD RD

12TH…………..COURTHOUSE-WEST
HALL………………………………...300 N. JEFFERS

13TH…………..SALVATION
ARMY……………………………………………1020 N. ADAMS

15TH…………..BEREAN
CHURCH……………………………………………..202 W. 8TH
ST. 16TH…………..BEREAN
CHURCH……………………………………………..202 W. 8th
ST.

BRADY……………….COMMUNITY
CENTER

HALL…………………
BEREAN CHURCH – 202 W 8th
ST – SW DOOR

HERSHEY……………AMERICAN
LEGION POST 279 – 108 E 2nd
ST, HERSHEY

HINMAN……………..FAIR
GROUNDS – AGRICULTURAL BUILDING

MEDICINE…………..VILLAGE
HALL – WELLFLEET

OSGOOD……………..VALLEY
CHRISTIAN CHURCH – 2001 W STATE FARM RD

SELLERS…………….HARBOR
LIGHTS – 711 N LAKE RD

SUTHERLAND……...METHODIST
CHURCH IN SUTHERLAND

WALLACE…………..LEGION
POST IN WALLACE

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600983522414.jpeg" alt="vote here sign cu.jpg" />
 <figcaption>vote here sign cu.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-It's hard to believe, but the 2020 General Election is just around the corner and Lincoln County Election officials have announced some changes to polling places in the interest of health and safety, and due to the Presidential race.According to Lincoln County Clerk/Election Commissioner Rebecca Rossell, the changes have been approved by the Nebraska Secretary of State, as required under state law. Additionally, Rossell says all state and local candidates affected by the changes have been notified by mail. Rossell says voters can expect to receive a credit card by mail towards the end of October.According to Rossell, only about 25 percent of the registered voters in Lincoln County have requested an early ballot as of October 8. Rossell compared this to the 42 percent that voted early in the May Primary Election.Because of this, Rossell expects polling places to be busy, especially with 2020 being a Presidential election year."To accommodate more voters, and for health reasons, I decided the best plan would be to move voters back to their regular permanent polling places if they were available," Rossell said.Changes were also made in the rural areas of Lincoln County. Included in those changes, Hershey voters will now vote at the American Legion Post as the Hershey Senior Center building has been sold.A full list of the polling places in Lincoln County can be found below.
2020 GENERAL ELECTION
POLLING PLACES1ST…………….	CALVARY
BAPTIST CHURCH……………………………...	900 EAST 2ND2ND
……………D &amp; N EVENT CENTER………………………………………501
E WALKER RD3rd
……………MC
KINLEY EDUCATION CENTER-SOUTH DOOR……...F AND WILLOW4TH
……………HOLIDAY INN EXP CONFERENCE CTR-EAST DR………300
HOLIDAY FRTG RD5TH……………D
&amp; N EVENT CENTER………………………………………...501
E WALKER RD6TH……………D
&amp; N EVENT CENTER…………………………………………501
E WALKER RD7TH
.………….GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH-WEST DOOR…………....1021 S
BUFFALO8TH……………MESSIAH
LUTHERAN CHURCH-NORTH DOOR..………..2700 WEST A ST.9TH……………MESSIAH
LUTHERAN CHURCH-WEST DOOR.…………..2700 WEST A ST.10TH…………..FIRST
BAPTIST CHURCH-NORTH DOOR…………………100 MCDONALD RD12TH…………..COURTHOUSE-WEST
HALL………………………………...300 N. JEFFERS13TH…………..SALVATION
ARMY……………………………………………1020 N. ADAMS15TH…………..BEREAN
CHURCH……………………………………………..202 W. 8TH
ST. 16TH…………..BEREAN
CHURCH……………………………………………..202 W. 8th
ST.
BRADY……………….COMMUNITY
CENTER
HALL…………………
BEREAN CHURCH – 202 W 8th
ST – SW DOOR 

HERSHEY……………AMERICAN
LEGION POST 279 – 108 E 2nd
ST, HERSHEY
HINMAN……………..FAIR
GROUNDS – AGRICULTURAL BUILDING
MAXWELL………….VILLAGE
HALL
MEDICINE…………..VILLAGE
HALL – WELLFLEET
OSGOOD……………..VALLEY
CHRISTIAN CHURCH – 2001 W STATE FARM RD
SELLERS…………….HARBOR
LIGHTS – 711 N LAKE RD
SUTHERLAND……...METHODIST
CHURCH IN SUTHERLAND
WALLACE…………..LEGION
POST IN WALLACE

Lincoln County voters to return to permanent polling places

OMAHA, Neb.-U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly today announced awards of $608,998 in Department of Justice grants to develop and improve systems to register and track sex offenders in Nebraska. Awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, these grants help states, U.S. territories, and tribal communities register and track sex offenders and enable them to meet the requirements of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Funds also help maintain the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. “Citizens are better protected from sexual violence when jurisdictions follow SORNA’s standards,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “The Office of Justice Programs is committed to giving state, territory, and tribal officials the resources they need to register and track sex offenders and prevent known threats in one community from posing new dangers to others.”

OJP’s Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking (SMART Office) is awarding approximately $16 million to jurisdictions across the country to develop and enhance programs designed to implement the provisions of SORNA. The SMART Office is awarding almost $800,000 to provide training and technical assistance to jurisdictions implementing SORNA standards. The U.S. Center for SafeSport will receive the $2.3 million Keep Young Athletes Safe grant to continue developing a comprehensive training and prevention program to prevent abuse in the athletic programs of the U.S. Olympic &amp; Paralympic Committee and related sports organizations. The SMART Office will award nearly $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to support maintenance, operations and technological improvements for the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website, NSOPW.gov, which links state, territorial and tribal public registry websites and allows the public to search for registered sex offenders on a national scale.

“These awards will enhance and continue to protect our community from predatory sex offenders,” said U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly. “This program will aid us in identifying those who have committed heinous crimes of sexual violence – another essential tool of protection for law enforcement and the community.”

“Our mission at the SMART Office is to help our state, tribal and territorial partners register and provide notification to the public of sex offenders within their jurisdictions,” said Kendel Ehrlich, Director of the SMART Office. “We will continue to provide both law enforcement and the public with the tools they need to better inform and protect their communities and themselves.”

The following Nebraska organizations received funding:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $304,931

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Winnebago Tribe&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $304,067

More information about OJP and its components can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ojp.gov/" target="_blank">www.ojp.gov</a>.

OMAHA, Neb.-U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly today announced awards of $608,998 in Department of Justice grants to develop and improve systems to register and track sex offenders in Nebraska. Awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, these grants help states, U.S. territories, and tribal communities register and track sex offenders and enable them to meet the requirements of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Funds also help maintain the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. “Citizens are better protected from sexual violence when jurisdictions follow SORNA’s standards,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “The Office of Justice Programs is committed to giving state, territory, and tribal officials the resources they need to register and track sex offenders and prevent known threats in one community from posing new dangers to others.”OJP’s Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking (SMART Office) is awarding approximately $16 million to jurisdictions across the country to develop and enhance programs designed to implement the provisions of SORNA. The SMART Office is awarding almost $800,000 to provide training and technical assistance to jurisdictions implementing SORNA standards. The U.S. Center for SafeSport will receive the $2.3 million Keep Young Athletes Safe grant to continue developing a comprehensive training and prevention program to prevent abuse in the athletic programs of the U.S. Olympic &amp; Paralympic Committee and related sports organizations. The SMART Office will award nearly $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to support maintenance, operations and technological improvements for the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website, NSOPW.gov, which links state, territorial and tribal public registry websites and allows the public to search for registered sex offenders on a national scale.“These awards will enhance and continue to protect our community from predatory sex offenders,” said U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly. “This program will aid us in identifying those who have committed heinous crimes of sexual violence – another essential tool of protection for law enforcement and the community.”“Our mission at the SMART Office is to help our state, tribal and territorial partners register and provide notification to the public of sex offenders within their jurisdictions,” said Kendel Ehrlich, Director of the SMART Office. “We will continue to provide both law enforcement and the public with the tools they need to better inform and protect their communities and themselves.”The following Nebraska organizations received funding:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $304,931•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Winnebago Tribe&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $304,067More information about OJP and its components can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ojp.gov/" target="_blank">www.ojp.gov</a>.

Grants to help register and track sex offenders in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider amendments to sport fishing orders when it meets Oct. 15 in Ogallala.

The meeting will start at 8:30 a.m. Mountain Time at the Keith County Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall, 1000 W. 3rd St.

Proposed sport fishing amendments will 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. Proposed daily bag limits at each are two smallmouths and five perch, with a maximum length limit of 12 inches on smallmouth.

Another sport fishing change would add 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 would be established for those species at Pelican Lake.

In another sport fishing recommendation, fishing would be permitted at Crane Lake on Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge during daylight hours from Nov. 1 through Feb. 15.

The Commission also will consider recommendations to:

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

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

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

• approve 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.

The commissioners also will consider for approval a 2021 meeting schedule and hear updates on Lake McConaughy and bighorn sheep, as well as a staff environmental report.

A complete agenda is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMDguMjg0NTc5OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.OVA6bH2QJxv2vHvK0bkN22HFp8zBlc5Y4YJi18ufa_Q/s/497221905/br/86641361640-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider amendments to sport fishing orders when it meets Oct. 15 in Ogallala.The meeting will start at 8:30 a.m. Mountain Time at the Keith County Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall, 1000 W. 3rd St.Proposed sport fishing amendments will 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. Proposed daily bag limits at each are two smallmouths and five perch, with a maximum length limit of 12 inches on smallmouth.Another sport fishing change would add 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 would be established for those species at Pelican Lake.In another sport fishing recommendation, fishing would be permitted at Crane Lake on Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge during daylight hours from Nov. 1 through Feb. 15.The Commission also will consider recommendations to:• create Commission orders for wild turkey, which would contain season dates, bag limits, number of permits, shooting hours and areas open;• remove the nonresident paddlefish permit fee increase from regulations approved at the August meeting;• approve the acquisition of approximately 58 acres in Kearney County adjacent to Fort Kearny State Recreation Area as an addition to the area; and• approve 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.The commissioners also will consider for approval a 2021 meeting schedule and hear updates on Lake McConaughy and bighorn sheep, as well as a staff environmental report.A complete agenda is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMDguMjg0NTc5OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.OVA6bH2QJxv2vHvK0bkN22HFp8zBlc5Y4YJi18ufa_Q/s/497221905/br/86641361640-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

Commissioners to consider sport fishing orders at Oct. 15 meeting

OMAHA-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Keith H. Rivera, 35, of Kimball, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Senior United States District Judge Richard G. Kopf for possession of child pornography.&nbsp; Rivera was sentenced to 48 months in prison and will also serve 5 years on supervised release.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; Rivera will also be required to register as a sex offender after his release from prison.

In March 2018, the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office in Tonasket, Washington, received information from the FBI based on a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The cyber tip reported that a specific IP address, email address and user name, later determined to be an individual from the State of Washington, had uploaded child pornography to his file-sharing account.&nbsp; A search warrant was served in Washington on the residence of the person using the account which resulted in the seizure of numerous electronic items, including a cellphone. That phone had messages containing child pornography and further analysis indicated that those messages were sent from a 308 area code in August of 2017.&nbsp; A check of the telephone number using the 308 area code determined that the number belonged to Rivera.&nbsp;

A federal search warrant was served at Rivera’s residence in Kimball and Rivera’s phone was seized.&nbsp; A forensic review of Rivera’s phone found evidence that he possessed the two videos sent to the Washington subject in August 2017.&nbsp; Further analysis showed additional images and videos of child pornography that appeared to have been downloaded from the Internet.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.

OMAHA-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Keith H. Rivera, 35, of Kimball, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Senior United States District Judge Richard G. Kopf for possession of child pornography.&nbsp; Rivera was sentenced to 48 months in prison and will also serve 5 years on supervised release.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; Rivera will also be required to register as a sex offender after his release from prison.In March 2018, the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office in Tonasket, Washington, received information from the FBI based on a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The cyber tip reported that a specific IP address, email address and user name, later determined to be an individual from the State of Washington, had uploaded child pornography to his file-sharing account.&nbsp; A search warrant was served in Washington on the residence of the person using the account which resulted in the seizure of numerous electronic items, including a cellphone. That phone had messages containing child pornography and further analysis indicated that those messages were sent from a 308 area code in August of 2017.&nbsp; A check of the telephone number using the 308 area code determined that the number belonged to Rivera.&nbsp;A federal search warrant was served at Rivera’s residence in Kimball and Rivera’s phone was seized.&nbsp; A forensic review of Rivera’s phone found evidence that he possessed the two videos sent to the Washington subject in August 2017.&nbsp; Further analysis showed additional images and videos of child pornography that appeared to have been downloaded from the Internet.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.

Kimball man sentenced for possession of child pornography

OMAHA-U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly today announced $12,018,158 in Department of Justice grants to improve services for crime victims in Nebraska. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of nearly $2 billion distributed to enhance the response to victims of crime throughout the United States.

“The Department of Justice is steadfast in its commitment to protecting public safety and bringing justice to those who have been victimized,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The investments we are making today will support service providers as they work to secure the legal rights of victims and put survivors of criminal acts on the road to recovery.” “These funding resources continue this administration’s unprecedented commitment to providing the support necessary for victims of crimes to be able to heal and recover.”

These awards made in Nebraska will support local direct victim service programs, including children’s advocacy centers, domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, human trafficking and elder abuse programs, civil legal services, crime victims’ rights enforcement, and crime victims assistance positions in prosecutors’ offices and law enforcement departments.&nbsp; The funds will also advance the use of technology, improve community preparedness and law enforcement training and provide emergency and transitional shelter to assist victims of crime.

“These awards from the Office of Victims of Crime, a component of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, will significantly augment the criminal justice system,” said Joe Kelly. “The funding will help service providers, as well as law enforcement agencies and prosecutors’ offices respond to the many emotional and physical effects that crime victims endure every day.”

The following organizations in Nebraska received funding:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Total&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; amount:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;$12,018,158

AGENCY and PURPOSE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AMOUNT

Heartland Family Services&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Human Trafficking&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $499,999

Nebraska Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Coalition

Developing Capacity to serve victims of human trafficking in rural area&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $310,949

Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice

Crime Victim Compensation Program Assistance&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $344,774

Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;$10,066,513

Crime Victim Assistance Formula Grant – designed for local community

based organizations that provide direct services to victims of crime.

Funds to enhance State Victim Compensation to eligible crime victims&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $46,000

Assisting in the decrease in the incidence of violent crime on Native&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $749,953

American women – ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable

OMAHA-U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly today announced $12,018,158 in Department of Justice grants to improve services for crime victims in Nebraska. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of nearly $2 billion distributed to enhance the response to victims of crime throughout the United States.“The Department of Justice is steadfast in its commitment to protecting public safety and bringing justice to those who have been victimized,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The investments we are making today will support service providers as they work to secure the legal rights of victims and put survivors of criminal acts on the road to recovery.” “These funding resources continue this administration’s unprecedented commitment to providing the support necessary for victims of crimes to be able to heal and recover.”These awards made in Nebraska will support local direct victim service programs, including children’s advocacy centers, domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, human trafficking and elder abuse programs, civil legal services, crime victims’ rights enforcement, and crime victims assistance positions in prosecutors’ offices and law enforcement departments.&nbsp; The funds will also advance the use of technology, improve community preparedness and law enforcement training and provide emergency and transitional shelter to assist victims of crime.“These awards from the Office of Victims of Crime, a component of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, will significantly augment the criminal justice system,” said Joe Kelly. “The funding will help service providers, as well as law enforcement agencies and prosecutors’ offices respond to the many emotional and physical effects that crime victims endure every day.”The following organizations in Nebraska received funding:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Total&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; amount:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;$12,018,158AGENCY and PURPOSE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AMOUNTHeartland Family Services&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Human Trafficking&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $499,999Nebraska Domestic Violence Sexual Assault CoalitionDeveloping Capacity to serve victims of human trafficking in rural area&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $310,949Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal JusticeCrime Victim Compensation Program Assistance&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $344,774Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;$10,066,513Crime Victim Assistance Formula Grant – designed for local communitybased organizations that provide direct services to victims of crime.Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal JusticeFunds to enhance State Victim Compensation to eligible crime victims&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $46,000Ponca Tribe of NebraskaAssisting in the decrease in the incidence of violent crime on Native&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $749,953American women – ensuring that perpetrators are held accountableFor their crimes.

Nebraska receives more than $12 million to improve victims services

LINCOLN, Neb.– Patricia Rivera of North Platte won $138,000 playing Pick 5 from the Nebraska Lottery.

Rivera purchased her winning ticket from Kwik Stop #02 at 902 North Jeffers St. in North Platte. Rivera’s ticket contained four plays for the September 29 drawing, one of which had the winning combination 08, 10, 21, 28, 29.

Rivera claimed her prize on October 7 at the Nebraska Lottery’s Lincoln offices and said she only plays Pick 5 once a month or so whenever the mood strikes her.

A few days earlier, the Rivera family had gone out for Chinese food and they’d opened a few fortune cookies after dinner.

“I found one that said I’d win a prize,” Rivera said. “I just read the fortunes, and throw the rest away, but my daughter said eat the cookie.”

She ate the cookie and then, while she was out for a bag of ice a couple of days later, Rivera pulled out her fortunes and played the numbers they contained on Pick 5.

She didn’t check her numbers until a few days later, when she scanned her tickets with the Nebraska Lottery’s app.

Rivera said she’s planning to pay off some bills, buy a couple of new vehicles for her and her husband and do some home renovations.

Nebraska Pick 5 is Nebraska’s unique Lottery game: all the proceeds from Nebraska Pick 5 stay in Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in Nebraska at Nebraska Lottery Lotto game retailers. The odds of winning the Nebraska Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that is not won, are 1 in 501,942 while the overall odds of winning a prize in the game, which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $793 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602176525657.png" alt="Photo: Nebraska Lottery" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Nebraska Lottery</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.– Patricia Rivera of North Platte won $138,000 playing Pick 5 from the Nebraska Lottery.Rivera purchased her winning ticket from Kwik Stop #02 at 902 North Jeffers St. in North Platte. Rivera’s ticket contained four plays for the September 29 drawing, one of which had the winning combination 08, 10, 21, 28, 29.Rivera claimed her prize on October 7 at the Nebraska Lottery’s Lincoln offices and said she only plays Pick 5 once a month or so whenever the mood strikes her.A few days earlier, the Rivera family had gone out for Chinese food and they’d opened a few fortune cookies after dinner.“I found one that said I’d win a prize,” Rivera said. “I just read the fortunes, and throw the rest away, but my daughter said eat the cookie.”She ate the cookie and then, while she was out for a bag of ice a couple of days later, Rivera pulled out her fortunes and played the numbers they contained on Pick 5.She didn’t check her numbers until a few days later, when she scanned her tickets with the Nebraska Lottery’s app.“I’m still in shock,” Rivera said.Rivera said she’s planning to pay off some bills, buy a couple of new vehicles for her and her husband and do some home renovations.Nebraska Pick 5 is Nebraska’s unique Lottery game: all the proceeds from Nebraska Pick 5 stay in Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in Nebraska at Nebraska Lottery Lotto game retailers. The odds of winning the Nebraska Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that is not won, are 1 in 501,942 while the overall odds of winning a prize in the game, which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $793 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

North Platte woman wins $138,000 playing Pick 5

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte City Council passed an ordinance that will make it harder for teenagers in the city who want to smoke or vape to get tobacco and nicotine products.

A new ordinance passed by the Council makes it unlawful for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or purchase tobacco products.

In addition to the age increase, the ordinance addresses electronic cigarettes and other alternative nicotine products, which has previously been a grey area.

Under the ordinance, persons under the age of 21 can still possess and use tobacco products while in their own homes or while under the supervision of a parent or guardian.&nbsp;

Those under 21 will still be allowed to stock, sack, and carry tobacco and nicotine products as required by their employment.

A copy of the ordinance can be viewed below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568829480327.png" alt="Vape photo BigStock" />
 <figcaption>Vape photo BigStock</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte City Council passed an ordinance that will make it harder for teenagers in the city who want to smoke or vape to get tobacco and nicotine products.A new ordinance passed by the Council makes it unlawful for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or purchase tobacco products.In addition to the age increase, the ordinance addresses electronic cigarettes and other alternative nicotine products, which has previously been a grey area.Under the ordinance, persons under the age of 21 can still possess and use tobacco products while in their own homes or while under the supervision of a parent or guardian.&nbsp;Those under 21 will still be allowed to stock, sack, and carry tobacco and nicotine products as required by their employment.A copy of the ordinance can be viewed below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602175625417.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602175743401.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte City Council passes new tobacco ordinance raising purchase age, addressing alternative products

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska reached a record high Thursday, but even as hospitals filled up across the state, senior hospital officials insisted they can handle a significant surge in serious infections.

State health officials said 288 Nebraskans are hospitalized with COVID-19, which is well above the spring peak of 232 set on May 27. The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;shows 28% of hospital beds and only 22% of beds in intensive care units were available. Douglas County health officials say only 7% of intensive care beds were free in the Omaha area.

But officials with the state's biggest hospitals said they could expand capacity to handle significantly more cases of COVID-19.

The recent rise in coronavirus cases in the state is worrisome but so far the number of people needing hospitalization has been manageable, said Cory Shaw, chief operating officer for Nebraska Medicine's two hospitals and network of clinics.

"But as of right now," he continued, "we are in a good place in terms of managing that need."

Shaw said everyone must remain vigilant about wearing masks and maintaining social distancing whenever possible along with washing hands regularly and staying home if you are sick. Nebraska eliminated most of its restrictions related to the virus last month in favor of voluntary guidelines.

Cliff Robertson, CEO of CHI Health's 14 hospitals in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, said his system has the ability to roughly double its hospital capacity to 2,000 beds if needed. CHI Health can also double the number of ICU beds by using its surgical recovery beds, Robertson said.

Methodist Health System CEO Josie Abboud said her two hospitals in Omaha also have plans in place to expand capacity as needed to handle more COVID-19 cases and deal with the upcoming influenza season.

It's relatively easy to plan for an increase in coronavirus patients compared to a massive influx related to a natural disaster that comes on suddenly, Robertson said.

"A bigger challenge for us would be a tornado hitting one of our communities and 200 critically injured patients that needed to be cared for and hospitalized all at once," he said. "That is absolutely more of a challenge for us than the situation we are dealing with with COVID."

The rate of new cases remains high in Nebraska with the case total approaching 50,000 after 639 new cases were reported Wednesday. The state has the eighth-highest rate of new cases, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University. The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska declined slightly over the past two weeks, going from 12.71% on Sept. 23 to 12.23% on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602173729142.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOSH FUNK-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska reached a record high Thursday, but even as hospitals filled up across the state, senior hospital officials insisted they can handle a significant surge in serious infections.State health officials said 288 Nebraskans are hospitalized with COVID-19, which is well above the spring peak of 232 set on May 27. The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;shows 28% of hospital beds and only 22% of beds in intensive care units were available. Douglas County health officials say only 7% of intensive care beds were free in the Omaha area.But officials with the state's biggest hospitals said they could expand capacity to handle significantly more cases of COVID-19.The recent rise in coronavirus cases in the state is worrisome but so far the number of people needing hospitalization has been manageable, said Cory Shaw, chief operating officer for Nebraska Medicine's two hospitals and network of clinics."Obviously we're concerned," Shaw said."But as of right now," he continued, "we are in a good place in terms of managing that need."Shaw said everyone must remain vigilant about wearing masks and maintaining social distancing whenever possible along with washing hands regularly and staying home if you are sick. Nebraska eliminated most of its restrictions related to the virus last month in favor of voluntary guidelines.Cliff Robertson, CEO of CHI Health's 14 hospitals in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, said his system has the ability to roughly double its hospital capacity to 2,000 beds if needed. CHI Health can also double the number of ICU beds by using its surgical recovery beds, Robertson said.Methodist Health System CEO Josie Abboud said her two hospitals in Omaha also have plans in place to expand capacity as needed to handle more COVID-19 cases and deal with the upcoming influenza season.It's relatively easy to plan for an increase in coronavirus patients compared to a massive influx related to a natural disaster that comes on suddenly, Robertson said."A bigger challenge for us would be a tornado hitting one of our communities and 200 critically injured patients that needed to be cared for and hospitalized all at once," he said. "That is absolutely more of a challenge for us than the situation we are dealing with with COVID."The rate of new cases remains high in Nebraska with the case total approaching 50,000 after 639 new cases were reported Wednesday. The state has the eighth-highest rate of new cases, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University. The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska declined slightly over the past two weeks, going from 12.71% on Sept. 23 to 12.23% on Wednesday.

Nebraska hospitals say they can handle surge in virus cases

10.8.2020 NPHS Softball Districts Day 2 LIVESTREAM

Scotty C chats with North Platte mayoral candidate Brandon Kelliher about job creation in the city. Have a listen!

Scotty C chats with North Platte mayoral candidate Brandon Kelliher about job creation in the city. Have a listen!<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Brandon Kelliher for Mayor of North Platte" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/pj7ih-eeb67e?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: Brandon Kelliher for Mayor of North Platte

Today is Thursday, Oct. 8, the 282nd day of 2020. There are 84 days left in the year.

On Oct. 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire erupted; fires also broke out in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and in several communities in Michigan.

In 1890, American aviation hero Eddie Rickenbacker was born in Columbus, Ohio.

In 1934, Bruno Hauptmann was indicted by a grand jury in New Jersey for murder in the death of the kidnapped son of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

In 1945, President Harry S. Truman told a press conference in Tiptonville, Tennessee, that the secret scientific knowledge behind the atomic bomb would be shared only with Britain and Canada.

In 1981, at the White House, President Ronald Reagan greeted former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon, who were preparing to travel to Egypt for the funeral of Anwar Sadat.

In 1985, the hijackers of the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro (ah-KEE’-leh LOW’-roh) killed American passenger Leon Klinghoffer, who was in a wheelchair, and threw his body overboard.

In 1997, Scientists reported the Mars Pathfinder had yielded what could be the strongest evidence yet that Mars might once have been hospitable to life.

In 1998, the House triggered an open-ended impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton in a momentous 258-176 vote; 31 Democrats joined majority Republicans in opening the way for nationally televised impeachment hearings.

In 2002, A federal judge approved President George W. Bush’s request to reopen West Coast ports, ending a 10-day labor lockout that was costing the U.S. economy an estimated $1 to $2 billion a day.

In 2005, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake flattened villages on the Pakistan-India border, killing an estimated 86,000 people.

In 2014, Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States, died at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas 10 days after being admitted.

In 2017, Harvey Weinstein was fired from The Weinstein Company amid allegations that he was responsible for decades of sexual harassment. Vice President Mike Pence left the 49ers-Colts game in Indianapolis after about a dozen San Francisco players took a knee during the national anthem.

In 2018, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees became the NFL’s all-time leader in yards passing during a 43-19 win over Washington.

Ten years ago: Imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo (lee-OO’ show-BOH’) won the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize, prompting a furious response from China. British aid worker Linda Norgrove, who’d been taken captive in Afghanistan, was killed during a U.S. special forces rescue attempt, apparently by a U.S. grenade. Gen. James Jones announced he was quitting as President Barack Obama’s national security adviser. Albertina Walker, the Grammy-winning singer from Chicago known as the “Queen of Gospel,” died at age 81.

Five years ago: Volkswagen’s top U.S. executive, Michael Horn, offered deep apologies yet sought to distance himself from the emissions scandal enveloping the world’s largest automaker, asserting before a congressional subcommittee that top corporate officials had no knowledge of the cheating software installed in 11 million diesel cars. Svetlana Alexievich, a Belarusian journalist and prose writer, won the Nobel Prize in literature. Chef Paul Prudhomme, 75, who’d sparked a nationwide interest in Cajun food, died in New Orleans.

One year ago: White House Counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to House leaders declaring that President Donald Trump would not cooperate with what the letter called an “illegitimate” impeachment investigation; Democrats responded that the letter was a clear reason to write an article of impeachment charging Trump with obstruction. Home in Vermont while recovering from a heart attack a week earlier, Bernie Sanders said he had no plans to abandon his Democratic presidential campaign, but that he might slow down from a frenetic pace that could have contributed to his health problems. Democrat Joe Biden unveiled an education plan that would make community and technical college free, and federal college loan programs more generous. Business executive Gregory Abbott and his wife Marcia were each sentenced to a month in prison for paying $125,000 to rig their daughter’s college entrance exams.

Today’s Birthdays: Entertainment reporter Rona Barrett is 84. Actor Paul Hogan is 81. Rhythm-and-blues singer Fred Cash (The Impressions) is 80. Civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson is 79. Comedian Chevy Chase is 77. Author R.L. Stine is 77. Actor Dale Dye is 76. Country singer Susan Raye is 76. TV personality Sarah Purcell is 72. Rhythm-and-blues singer Airrion Love (The Stylistics) is 71. Actor Sigourney Weaver is 71. Rhythm-and-blues singer Robert “Kool” Bell (Kool &amp; the Gang) is 70. Producer-director Edward Zwick is 68. Country singer-musician Ricky Lee Phelps is 67. Actor Michael Dudikoff is 66. Comedian Darrell Hammond is 65. Actor Stephanie Zimbalist is 64. Rock musician Mitch Marine is 59. Actor Kim Wayans is 59. Rock singer Steve Perry (Cherry Poppin’ Daddies) is 57. Actor Ian Hart is 56. Gospel/rhythm-and-blues singer CeCe Winans is 56. Rock musician C.J. Ramone (The Ramones) is 55. Actor-producer Karyn Parsons is 54. Singer-producer Teddy Riley is 54. Actor Emily Procter is 52. Actor Dylan Neal is 51. Actor-screenwriter Matt Damon is 50. Actor-comedian Robert Kelly is 50. The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is 50. Actor Martin Henderson is 46. Actor Kristanna Loken is 41. Rhythm-and-blues singer Byron Reeder (Mista) is 41. Rock-soul singer-musician Noelle Scaggs (Fitz and the Tantrums) is 41. Actor Nick Cannon is 40. Actor J.R. Ramirez is 40. Actor Max Crumm is 35. Singer-songwriter-producer Bruno Mars is 35. Actor Angus T. Jones is 27. Actor Molly Quinn is 27. Actor/singer Bella Thorne is 23.

Today in HistoryToday is Thursday, Oct. 8, the 282nd day of 2020. There are 84 days left in the year.Today’s Highlight in History:On Oct. 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire erupted; fires also broke out in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and in several communities in Michigan.On this date:In 1890, American aviation hero Eddie Rickenbacker was born in Columbus, Ohio.In 1934, Bruno Hauptmann was indicted by a grand jury in New Jersey for murder in the death of the kidnapped son of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh.In 1945, President Harry S. Truman told a press conference in Tiptonville, Tennessee, that the secret scientific knowledge behind the atomic bomb would be shared only with Britain and Canada.In 1981, at the White House, President Ronald Reagan greeted former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon, who were preparing to travel to Egypt for the funeral of Anwar Sadat.In 1985, the hijackers of the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro (ah-KEE’-leh LOW’-roh) killed American passenger Leon Klinghoffer, who was in a wheelchair, and threw his body overboard.In 1997, Scientists reported the Mars Pathfinder had yielded what could be the strongest evidence yet that Mars might once have been hospitable to life.In 1998, the House triggered an open-ended impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton in a momentous 258-176 vote; 31 Democrats joined majority Republicans in opening the way for nationally televised impeachment hearings.In 2002, A federal judge approved President George W. Bush’s request to reopen West Coast ports, ending a 10-day labor lockout that was costing the U.S. economy an estimated $1 to $2 billion a day.In 2005, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake flattened villages on the Pakistan-India border, killing an estimated 86,000 people.In 2014, Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States, died at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas 10 days after being admitted.In 2017, Harvey Weinstein was fired from The Weinstein Company amid allegations that he was responsible for decades of sexual harassment. Vice President Mike Pence left the 49ers-Colts game in Indianapolis after about a dozen San Francisco players took a knee during the national anthem.In 2018, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees became the NFL’s all-time leader in yards passing during a 43-19 win over Washington.Ten years ago: Imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo (lee-OO’ show-BOH’) won the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize, prompting a furious response from China. British aid worker Linda Norgrove, who’d been taken captive in Afghanistan, was killed during a U.S. special forces rescue attempt, apparently by a U.S. grenade. Gen. James Jones announced he was quitting as President Barack Obama’s national security adviser. Albertina Walker, the Grammy-winning singer from Chicago known as the “Queen of Gospel,” died at age 81.Five years ago: Volkswagen’s top U.S. executive, Michael Horn, offered deep apologies yet sought to distance himself from the emissions scandal enveloping the world’s largest automaker, asserting before a congressional subcommittee that top corporate officials had no knowledge of the cheating software installed in 11 million diesel cars. Svetlana Alexievich, a Belarusian journalist and prose writer, won the Nobel Prize in literature. Chef Paul Prudhomme, 75, who’d sparked a nationwide interest in Cajun food, died in New Orleans.One year ago: White House Counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to House leaders declaring that President Donald Trump would not cooperate with what the letter called an “illegitimate” impeachment investigation; Democrats responded that the letter was a clear reason to write an article of impeachment charging Trump with obstruction. Home in Vermont while recovering from a heart attack a week earlier, Bernie Sanders said he had no plans to abandon his Democratic presidential campaign, but that he might slow down from a frenetic pace that could have contributed to his health problems. Democrat Joe Biden unveiled an education plan that would make community and technical college free, and federal college loan programs more generous. Business executive Gregory Abbott and his wife Marcia were each sentenced to a month in prison for paying $125,000 to rig their daughter’s college entrance exams.Today’s Birthdays: Entertainment reporter Rona Barrett is 84. Actor Paul Hogan is 81. Rhythm-and-blues singer Fred Cash (The Impressions) is 80. Civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson is 79. Comedian Chevy Chase is 77. Author R.L. Stine is 77. Actor Dale Dye is 76. Country singer Susan Raye is 76. TV personality Sarah Purcell is 72. Rhythm-and-blues singer Airrion Love (The Stylistics) is 71. Actor Sigourney Weaver is 71. Rhythm-and-blues singer Robert “Kool” Bell (Kool &amp; the Gang) is 70. Producer-director Edward Zwick is 68. Country singer-musician Ricky Lee Phelps is 67. Actor Michael Dudikoff is 66. Comedian Darrell Hammond is 65. Actor Stephanie Zimbalist is 64. Rock musician Mitch Marine is 59. Actor Kim Wayans is 59. Rock singer Steve Perry (Cherry Poppin’ Daddies) is 57. Actor Ian Hart is 56. Gospel/rhythm-and-blues singer CeCe Winans is 56. Rock musician C.J. Ramone (The Ramones) is 55. Actor-producer Karyn Parsons is 54. Singer-producer Teddy Riley is 54. Actor Emily Procter is 52. Actor Dylan Neal is 51. Actor-screenwriter Matt Damon is 50. Actor-comedian Robert Kelly is 50. The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is 50. Actor Martin Henderson is 46. Actor Kristanna Loken is 41. Rhythm-and-blues singer Byron Reeder (Mista) is 41. Rock-soul singer-musician Noelle Scaggs (Fitz and the Tantrums) is 41. Actor Nick Cannon is 40. Actor J.R. Ramirez is 40. Actor Max Crumm is 35. Singer-songwriter-producer Bruno Mars is 35. Actor Angus T. Jones is 27. Actor Molly Quinn is 27. Actor/singer Bella Thorne is 23.

Today in History-October 8

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.9 million grant to the city of Valentine, Nebraska, to make stormwater infrastructure improvements needed to protect businesses from flooding.&nbsp;The EDA grant will be matched with nearly $1.4 million in local investment.

“The Trump Administration is committed to supporting locally-developed strategies designed to improve economic resilience in the wake of natural disasters,”&nbsp;said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.&nbsp;“This EDA investment in the city of Valentine will support new flood prevention infrastructure to protect business and industry.”

“The lack of adequate flood control and diversion infrastructure in Valentine has resulted in frequent disruptions to business that negatively impacts the economy and livelihood of residents,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. “The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support this project to install new storm sewer pipes in a large section of the city to serve the local business community.”&nbsp;

“Valentine was severely impacted by last year’s severe weather, disrupting the local economy,”&nbsp;said Senator Deb Fischer. “This critical federal grant will make stormwater infrastructure improvements to protect Valentine’s businesses against the risks of future storms.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Central Nebraska Economic Development District, which EDA funds to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs.

This project is funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/116/plaws/publ20/PLAW-116publ20.pdf." target="_blank">Pub. L. 116-20</a>), which provided EDA with $600 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas affected by Hurricanes Florence, Michael, and Lane, Typhoons Yutu and Mangkhut, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and other major natural disasters occurring in calendar year 2018, and tornadoes and floods occurring in calendar year 2019, under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15271" target="_blank">Robert T. Stafford Act</a>. Please visit EDA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eda.gov/disaster-recovery/supplemental/" target="_blank">Disaster Supplemental webpage</a>&nbsp;for more information.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.9 million grant to the city of Valentine, Nebraska, to make stormwater infrastructure improvements needed to protect businesses from flooding.&nbsp;The EDA grant will be matched with nearly $1.4 million in local investment.“The Trump Administration is committed to supporting locally-developed strategies designed to improve economic resilience in the wake of natural disasters,”&nbsp;said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.&nbsp;“This EDA investment in the city of Valentine will support new flood prevention infrastructure to protect business and industry.”“The lack of adequate flood control and diversion infrastructure in Valentine has resulted in frequent disruptions to business that negatively impacts the economy and livelihood of residents,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. “The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support this project to install new storm sewer pipes in a large section of the city to serve the local business community.”&nbsp; “Valentine was severely impacted by last year’s severe weather, disrupting the local economy,”&nbsp;said Senator Deb Fischer. “This critical federal grant will make stormwater infrastructure improvements to protect Valentine’s businesses against the risks of future storms.”This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Central Nebraska Economic Development District, which EDA funds to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs.This project is funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/116/plaws/publ20/PLAW-116publ20.pdf." target="_blank">Pub. L. 116-20</a>), which provided EDA with $600 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas affected by Hurricanes Florence, Michael, and Lane, Typhoons Yutu and Mangkhut, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and other major natural disasters occurring in calendar year 2018, and tornadoes and floods occurring in calendar year 2019, under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15271" target="_blank">Robert T. Stafford Act</a>. Please visit EDA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eda.gov/disaster-recovery/supplemental/" target="_blank">Disaster Supplemental webpage</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Dept. of Commerce invests $1.9 million to protect Valentine businesses from flooding

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One of North Platte's popular restaurants announced Wednesday that they will close temporarily due to a possible COVID-19 exposure.

In a post on their Facebook page management at Merrick's said that after reviewing CDC guidelines they determined it was in the best interest of their guests and employees to close.

At this time, the restaurant is expected to be open again on Tuesday, October 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602121383680.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One of North Platte's popular restaurants announced Wednesday that they will close temporarily due to a possible COVID-19 exposure.In a post on their Facebook page management at Merrick's said that after reviewing CDC guidelines they determined it was in the best interest of their guests and employees to close.At this time, the restaurant is expected to be open again on Tuesday, October 13.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattemerricks%2Fposts%2F1752541041561179&show_text=true&width=552&height=187&appId" width="552" height="187" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Merrick's closes temporarily due to possible COVID exposure

KEARNEY, Neb.-Due to dry conditions the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Jim Tacha is issuing a burning ban until we receive measurable moisture.  There is always a statewide open burning ban on all bonfires, outdoor rubbish fires, and fires for the purpose of clearing land, however, a permit can be obtained from the local fire chief on a form prescribed by the State of Nebraska. 

No Open Burn Permits will be issued in an effort to preserve the lives and property of the citizens we serve in our fire district.  Warmer conditions, lack of winter moisture and low relative humidity have caused vegetation to dry quickly.   Fire Chief Jim Tacha also encourages residents to avoid burning in burn barrels during this ban.  Extreme caution should always be used when using burning barrels and should have an appropriate screen on top to deter burning debris from escaping the barrel.  We appreciate the assistance and cooperation of our residents in this matter of safety. 

City of Kearney News ReleaseKEARNEY, Neb.-Due to dry conditions the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Jim Tacha is issuing a burning ban until we receive measurable moisture. There is always a statewide open burning ban on all bonfires, outdoor rubbish fires, and fires for the purpose of clearing land, however, a permit can be obtained from the local fire chief on a form prescribed by the State of Nebraska. No Open Burn Permits will be issued in an effort to preserve the lives and property of the citizens we serve in our fire district. Warmer conditions, lack of winter moisture and low relative humidity have caused vegetation to dry quickly. Fire Chief Jim Tacha also encourages residents to avoid burning in burn barrels during this ban. Extreme caution should always be used when using burning barrels and should have an appropriate screen on top to deter burning debris from escaping the barrel. We appreciate the assistance and cooperation of our residents in this matter of safety.

Kearney implements burn ban 

LINCOLN, Neb. – Matt Zvolanek of Ogallala went on a “pretty good little hunt” with his friend and friend’s father in the Sandhills recently. The regular duck opener has become a bit of a tradition for the three.

That hunt also allowed Zvolanek to become the first hunter to complete a 2020 Nebraska Duck Slam.

The slam challenges hunters to harvest a teal (blue-winged or green-winged) of either sex, as well as drakes of three other species: an American wigeon, a mallard and a northern pintail.

Zvolanek shot a teal on Sept. 7 on public land in Cherry County. Then on Oct. 3, the duck season opener, he harvested an American wigeon, mallard and northern pintail on private land in Sheridan County to finish off the slam.

Despite having hunting the area before, Zvolanek didn’t take for granted he could shoot the three remaining species he needed for the slam.

“I wasn’t really expecting to do it, but I’m glad I did,” he said. “There’s a variety of birds in the Sandhills. I knew all the species of birds were up in that area.”

As the first to complete the challenge, Zvolanek will receive some hunting gear courtesy of Ducks Unlimited.

Zvolanek, 28, has been shooting ducks for at least 16 years. He completed last year’s Duck Slam in December. He is still trying to finish off his Trout and Upland slams.

All ducks taken in the Duck Slam must be harvested in Nebraska, and hunters must upload a photo of each harvest at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMDcuMjgzNzk5MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9kdWNrc2xhbS8ifQ.MP1nVuKqkqrmLWND6jQ7DqDfmT46b7-dCtgUEr7OelQ/s/497221905/br/86552355332-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/DuckSlam</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602109801999.png" alt="Photo: <a href="http://outdoornebraska.gov/duckslam/">www.outdoornebraska.org</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo: <a href="http://outdoornebraska.gov/duckslam/">www.outdoornebraska.org</a></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Matt Zvolanek of Ogallala went on a “pretty good little hunt” with his friend and friend’s father in the Sandhills recently. The regular duck opener has become a bit of a tradition for the three.That hunt also allowed Zvolanek to become the first hunter to complete a 2020 Nebraska Duck Slam.The slam challenges hunters to harvest a teal (blue-winged or green-winged) of either sex, as well as drakes of three other species: an American wigeon, a mallard and a northern pintail.Zvolanek shot a teal on Sept. 7 on public land in Cherry County. Then on Oct. 3, the duck season opener, he harvested an American wigeon, mallard and northern pintail on private land in Sheridan County to finish off the slam.Despite having hunting the area before, Zvolanek didn’t take for granted he could shoot the three remaining species he needed for the slam.“I wasn’t really expecting to do it, but I’m glad I did,” he said. “There’s a variety of birds in the Sandhills. I knew all the species of birds were up in that area.”As the first to complete the challenge, Zvolanek will receive some hunting gear courtesy of Ducks Unlimited.Zvolanek, 28, has been shooting ducks for at least 16 years. He completed last year’s Duck Slam in December. He is still trying to finish off his Trout and Upland slams.All ducks taken in the Duck Slam must be harvested in Nebraska, and hunters must upload a photo of each harvest at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMDcuMjgzNzk5MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9kdWNrc2xhbS8ifQ.MP1nVuKqkqrmLWND6jQ7DqDfmT46b7-dCtgUEr7OelQ/s/497221905/br/86552355332-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/DuckSlam</a>.Those who successfully complete the slam will receive an official certificate, a Nebraska Duck Slam pin, four tasty meals and Central Flyway bragging rights. Additionally, all hunters who complete the slam during the 2020-2021 season will be registered to win one of several prizes donated by Ducks Unlimited. A drawing for the grand prize, Special Edition Ducks Unlimited Winchester SX 4 12-gauge shotgun, will take place Feb. 20, 2021, at the Ducks Unlimited State Banquet.For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMDcuMjgzNzk5MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.0dK2JUVYaGKKkLGXouv4g4cBi4TbrHLeE63BeRpHQsU/s/497221905/br/86552355332-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

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