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North Platte Police Call Log (September 25-28, 2020)

LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Wellness Award.&nbsp; A total of 14 Nebraska organizations representing 13 communities are being honored for offering evidence-based worksite wellness programs.

“Regular exercise and healthy nutrition have benefits for both our physical and mental well-being,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “The companies honored today have done exemplary work to encourage their teammates to commit to a healthy lifestyle.&nbsp; These are exciting results, and I encourage all Nebraskans to take time to assess their own wellness so we can grow a happier and healthier Nebraska.”

In the past year, award recipients have worked on stress, gratitude, and mindfulness initiatives; offered nutritious food access through things like onsite meal prep and Community Supported Agriculture farm-share deliveries; covered registration fees for employees to participate in local community walks and runs; provided tobacco cessation support; and given tips for better sleep.

“Worksite wellness programs provide opportunity and motivation for Nebraskans to achieve a healthier lifestyle and bring coworkers together as they share their wellness journeys.&nbsp; There are numerous benefits including helping reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke, and certain types of cancer,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS.

The Governor’s Wellness Award began in 2008, making this the 13th&nbsp;year it has recognized businesses that dedicate leadership, resources, and time to wellness efforts in the workplace.&nbsp; Each applicant must provide information in the areas of leadership, data collection, intervention strategies, policy/environment support, and evaluation of outcomes.

The Governor’s Wellness Award has three categories:

Including this year’s winners, 480 total awards have been distributed across the state.&nbsp; Awards will be presented at one of four virtual award ceremonies happening in September and October.&nbsp;

Nebraska employers can apply for the Governor’s Wellness Award online by&nbsp;<a href="https://cip-dhhs.ne.gov/redcap/surveys/?s=WJCR98KTXT" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; Awards are presented annually and are good for three years at which time reapplication is encouraged.

For employers interested in starting a wellness program or enhancing an existing one, contact DHHS at 402-471-0709. &nbsp;&nbsp; 

A list of 2020 Governor’s Wellness award winners can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/2020-Wellness-Award-Recipients.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch video of this year’s wellness awards ceremony by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovernorPeteRicketts%2Fvideos%2F706574066870824&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Ca5f9ce57e13c41bc5cb608d863ca8e7e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637369068904742924&amp;sdata=j6BWhUbOc5spUZizkzjSo6FsszF1wRRQl5WdT0oRmHI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601313519098.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (far right) and Dr. Gary Anthone (far left) with representatives of wellness award-winning organizations (from left to right): Joslynne Stauss (Waverly School District), Nichole Hall (ESU #6), and Jared Carlson (Assurity Life Insurance Company)." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (far right) and Dr. Gary Anthone (far left) with representatives of wellness award-winning organizations (from left to right): Joslynne Stauss (Waverly School District), Nichole Hall (ESU #6), and Jared Carlson (Assurity Life Insurance Company).</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Wellness Award.&nbsp; A total of 14 Nebraska organizations representing 13 communities are being honored for offering evidence-based worksite wellness programs.“Regular exercise and healthy nutrition have benefits for both our physical and mental well-being,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “The companies honored today have done exemplary work to encourage their teammates to commit to a healthy lifestyle.&nbsp; These are exciting results, and I encourage all Nebraskans to take time to assess their own wellness so we can grow a happier and healthier Nebraska.”In the past year, award recipients have worked on stress, gratitude, and mindfulness initiatives; offered nutritious food access through things like onsite meal prep and Community Supported Agriculture farm-share deliveries; covered registration fees for employees to participate in local community walks and runs; provided tobacco cessation support; and given tips for better sleep.“Worksite wellness programs provide opportunity and motivation for Nebraskans to achieve a healthier lifestyle and bring coworkers together as they share their wellness journeys.&nbsp; There are numerous benefits including helping reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke, and certain types of cancer,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS.The Governor’s Wellness Award began in 2008, making this the 13th&nbsp;year it has recognized businesses that dedicate leadership, resources, and time to wellness efforts in the workplace.&nbsp; Each applicant must provide information in the areas of leadership, data collection, intervention strategies, policy/environment support, and evaluation of outcomes.The Governor’s Wellness Award has three categories:<ol>
 <li>The Sower Award recognizes workplaces that have established quality wellness programs.</li><li>The Grower Award honors businesses and organizations demonstrating significant improvement in employee health behaviors.</li><li>The Harvester Award, which was added last year, recognizes businesses that are experiencing documented value and return on investment.</li>
 </ol>Including this year’s winners, 480 total awards have been distributed across the state.&nbsp; Awards will be presented at one of four virtual award ceremonies happening in September and October.&nbsp;Nebraska employers can apply for the Governor’s Wellness Award online by&nbsp;<a href="https://cip-dhhs.ne.gov/redcap/surveys/?s=WJCR98KTXT" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; Awards are presented annually and are good for three years at which time reapplication is encouraged.For employers interested in starting a wellness program or enhancing an existing one, contact DHHS at 402-471-0709. &nbsp;&nbsp; A list of 2020 Governor’s Wellness award winners can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/2020-Wellness-Award-Recipients.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch video of this year’s wellness awards ceremony by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovernorPeteRicketts%2Fvideos%2F706574066870824&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Ca5f9ce57e13c41bc5cb608d863ca8e7e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637369068904742924&amp;sdata=j6BWhUbOc5spUZizkzjSo6FsszF1wRRQl5WdT0oRmHI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts honors 2020 Governor's Wellness Award recipients

The North Platte Public Library is announcing its current policies and procedures, effective October 1, 2020.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monday-Friday: 9:00AM – 6:00PM

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Saturday and Sunday: Library is closed.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;The North Platte Public Library building occupancy is back to normal with no restrictions.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;The Library’s meeting room occupancy is limited to 75% of the rated occupancy or a meeting room maximum of 52 people. All meetings must be approved by the Library Director.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;All persons visiting the library must use hand sanitizer before entering the main area of the library. This is for the safety of all citizens to limit the contamination of library materials, computer keyboards, and library surfaces from the Coronavirus. Visitors no longer need to check in with library staff when they enter the facility. Face masks and/or face shields are encouraged.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;Some in-person Library programming has resumed with modifications:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Teens Explore (for teens ages 12-18) returns to weekly programming at 4 pm on Thursdays, beginning on October 1st.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Story Time (for children ages 3-5) returns to weekly programming at 10:30 am or 1:30 pm on Tuesday’s beginning on October 13th. If parents are not comfortable with this, please consider watching our online programming for pre-school age children on the Library’s Facebook page.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wee Read (for birth through age 3) is postponed until further notice but look for our online programming for pre-school age children on the Library’s Facebook page.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;The Creation Station (maker space) is now open for certification and training. Small group workshops may also be held. The Creation Station room capacity is limited to twenty percent (20%) or five (5) people. Please call the library at 308-535-8036 X3320 to make an appointment and learn about other maker space room modifications.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;Patrons should plan on staying a maximum of two (2) hours in the library facility. Patrons using computers in the Library’s Technology Learning (TLC) Center have a once a day maximum time limit of 60 minutes.&nbsp; If you need additional time (for employment applications, educational coursework, filing taxes, and similar), please communicate that to the Library Staff member in the TLC.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All library staff is required to wear masks when working with the public or working in a public area and may be further protected as their comfort level dictates.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The second-floor library collections and services, including Computer Services, are available.&nbsp;Please note that due to social distancing guidelines, computer availability and technology assistance is limited.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Social Distancing of six feet or more is encouraged and recommended whenever/wherever possible. Face masks and/or face shields are recommended.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Book Drop is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. All returned items and donations must be returned in the book drop and go through a 72-hour quarantine process.

The North Platte Public Library reserves the right to modify (stricter or loosen) these provisions of service based on Health Care Directives from the West Central District Health Department and/or City of North Platte Administration.

You are using the library at your own risk. The North Platte Public Library is not responsible if you contract coronavirus or any other communicable disease. We are taking all precautions to protect our staff and our patrons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571932881079.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseThe North Platte Public Library is announcing its current policies and procedures, effective October 1, 2020.HOURS OF OPERATION·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monday-Friday: 9:00AM – 6:00PM·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Saturday and Sunday: Library is closed.RESTRICTIONS/MODIFICATIONS·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;The North Platte Public Library building occupancy is back to normal with no restrictions.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;The Library’s meeting room occupancy is limited to 75% of the rated occupancy or a meeting room maximum of 52 people. All meetings must be approved by the Library Director.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;All persons visiting the library must use hand sanitizer before entering the main area of the library. This is for the safety of all citizens to limit the contamination of library materials, computer keyboards, and library surfaces from the Coronavirus. Visitors no longer need to check in with library staff when they enter the facility. Face masks and/or face shields are encouraged.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;Some in-person Library programming has resumed with modifications:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Teens Explore (for teens ages 12-18) returns to weekly programming at 4 pm on Thursdays, beginning on October 1st.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Story Time (for children ages 3-5) returns to weekly programming at 10:30 am or 1:30 pm on Tuesday’s beginning on October 13th. If parents are not comfortable with this, please consider watching our online programming for pre-school age children on the Library’s Facebook page.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wee Read (for birth through age 3) is postponed until further notice but look for our online programming for pre-school age children on the Library’s Facebook page.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;The Creation Station (maker space) is now open for certification and training. Small group workshops may also be held. The Creation Station room capacity is limited to twenty percent (20%) or five (5) people. Please call the library at 308-535-8036 X3320 to make an appointment and learn about other maker space room modifications.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*NEW*&nbsp;Patrons should plan on staying a maximum of two (2) hours in the library facility. Patrons using computers in the Library’s Technology Learning (TLC) Center have a once a day maximum time limit of 60 minutes.&nbsp; If you need additional time (for employment applications, educational coursework, filing taxes, and similar), please communicate that to the Library Staff member in the TLC.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All library staff is required to wear masks when working with the public or working in a public area and may be further protected as their comfort level dictates.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The second-floor library collections and services, including Computer Services, are available.&nbsp;Please note that due to social distancing guidelines, computer availability and technology assistance is limited.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Social Distancing of six feet or more is encouraged and recommended whenever/wherever possible. Face masks and/or face shields are recommended.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Book Drop is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. All returned items and donations must be returned in the book drop and go through a 72-hour quarantine process.The North Platte Public Library reserves the right to modify (stricter or loosen) these provisions of service based on Health Care Directives from the West Central District Health Department and/or City of North Platte Administration.You are using the library at your own risk. The North Platte Public Library is not responsible if you contract coronavirus or any other communicable disease. We are taking all precautions to protect our staff and our patrons.

North Platte Public Library announces changes effective October 1

OMAHA-Union Pacific was recently designated as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.militaryfriendly.com/employers/" target="_blank">2021 Military Friendly Employer</a>&nbsp;by VIQTORY Media, ranking as the top transportation industry employer and No. 7 overall. Employing 6,300 veterans and active-service military members, the award recognizes Union Pacific's commitment to recruiting and investing in the veteran and military communities.

“Employees with military experience are a valuable part of the Union Pacific team and we strive to provide a supportive work environment that sets them up for success,” said Jeff Sebree, general director of talent acquisition – Workforce Resources. “Transitioning from the military to a civilian job can be challenging, so we work diligently to make that transition as simple as possible.”

More than 17% of Union Pacific employees have military backgrounds, with some still active in the National Guard or Reserves. The company's UPVETS employee resource group supports members and provides career development opportunities. Approximately 80 Union Pacific employees are deployed every month and receive additional support from a liaison who guides them through the deployment process.

Union Pacific partners with Wounded Warriors, Veteran Affairs and local veteran organizations to host career fairs, reaching the military community across the company's 23-state network. More information about Union Pacific's support for U.S. military service members and veterans is available in the company's&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/up/aboutup/corporate_info/building-america-report/index.htm" target="_blank">Building America Report</a>.

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/" target="_blank">www.up.com</a>.

News Release UPOMAHA-Union Pacific was recently designated as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.militaryfriendly.com/employers/" target="_blank">2021 Military Friendly Employer</a>&nbsp;by VIQTORY Media, ranking as the top transportation industry employer and No. 7 overall. Employing 6,300 veterans and active-service military members, the award recognizes Union Pacific's commitment to recruiting and investing in the veteran and military communities.“Employees with military experience are a valuable part of the Union Pacific team and we strive to provide a supportive work environment that sets them up for success,” said Jeff Sebree, general director of talent acquisition – Workforce Resources. “Transitioning from the military to a civilian job can be challenging, so we work diligently to make that transition as simple as possible.”More than 17% of Union Pacific employees have military backgrounds, with some still active in the National Guard or Reserves. The company's UPVETS employee resource group supports members and provides career development opportunities. Approximately 80 Union Pacific employees are deployed every month and receive additional support from a liaison who guides them through the deployment process.Union Pacific partners with Wounded Warriors, Veteran Affairs and local veteran organizations to host career fairs, reaching the military community across the company's 23-state network. More information about Union Pacific's support for U.S. military service members and veterans is available in the company's&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/up/aboutup/corporate_info/building-america-report/index.htm" target="_blank">Building America Report</a>.<h2>About Union Pacific</h2>Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/" target="_blank">www.up.com</a>.<ol>
 <li><a href="http://www.up.com/" target="_blank">www.up.com</a></li><li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/unionpacific" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/unionpacific</a></li><li><a href="http://www.twitter.com/unionpacific" target="_blank">www.twitter.com/unionpacific</a></li>
 </ol>

Union Pacific ranked as Top 10 'Military Friendly Employer'

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska reported 901 new coronavirus cases and two new deaths linked to COVID-19 over the weekend.

The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;on Monday showed 44,063 in Nebraska have tested positive since the outbreak began, including 467 new cases on Sunday and 434 new cases on Saturday.

A total of 470 deaths have been linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 329 new cases per day on Sept. 13 to 399.86 new cases per day on Sunday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University's COVID-19 tracking project.

The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska has also risen from 9.65% on Sept. 13 to 12.86% on Sunday.

Despite those increases, the state said 36% of the Nebraska's hospital beds, 34% of intensive care beds and 80% of the state's ventilators remain available. A total of 224 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Monday.

For some people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska reported 901 new coronavirus cases and two new deaths linked to COVID-19 over the weekend.The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;on Monday showed 44,063 in Nebraska have tested positive since the outbreak began, including 467 new cases on Sunday and 434 new cases on Saturday.A total of 470 deaths have been linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 329 new cases per day on Sept. 13 to 399.86 new cases per day on Sunday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University's COVID-19 tracking project.The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Nebraska has also risen from 9.65% on Sept. 13 to 12.86% on Sunday.Despite those increases, the state said 36% of the Nebraska's hospital beds, 34% of intensive care beds and 80% of the state's ventilators remain available. A total of 224 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Monday.For some people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks.

Nebraska reports 901 new virus cases, 2 deaths over weekend

Today is Monday, Sept. 28, the 272nd day of 2020. There are 94 days left in the year.

On Sept. 28, 1928, Scottish medical researcher Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first effective antibiotic.

In 1066, William the Conqueror invaded England to claim the English throne.

In 1781, American forces in the Revolutionary War, backed by a French fleet, began their successful siege of Yorktown, Va.

In 1787, the Congress of the Confederation voted to send the just-completed Constitution of the United States to state legislatures for their approval.

In 1850, flogging was abolished as a form of punishment in the U.S. Navy.

In 1892, the first nighttime football game took place in Mansfield, Pennsylvania, as teams from Mansfield State Normal and Wyoming Seminary played under electric lights to a scoreless tie.

In 1920, eight members of the Chicago White Sox were indicted for allegedly throwing the 1919 World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. (All were acquitted at trial, but all eight were banned from the game for life.)

In 1962, a federal appeals court found Mississippi Gov. Ross Barnett in civil contempt for blocking the admission of James Meredith, a Black student, to the University of Mississippi. (Federal marshals escorted Meredith onto the campus two days later.)

In 1964, comedian Harpo Marx, 75, died in Los Angeles.

In 1976, Muhammad Ali kept his world heavyweight boxing championship with a close 15-round decision over Ken Norton at New York’s Yankee Stadium.

In 1989, deposed Philippine President Ferdinand E. Marcos died in exile in Hawaii at age 72.

In 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO chairman Yasser Arafat signed an accord at the White House ending Israel’s military occupation of West Bank cities and laying the foundation for a Palestinian state.

In 2000, capping a 12-year battle, the government approved use of the abortion pill RU-486.

Ten years ago: The youngest son of North Korean President Kim Jong Il, Kim Jong Un, was selected for his first leadership post in the ruling Workers Party, putting him well on the path to succeed his father. Movie director Arthur Penn (“Bonnie and Clyde”) died in New York a day after turning 88.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin, meeting at the United Nations, agreed to discuss a political transition in Syria but remained at odds about what that would mean for Syria leader Bashar Assad’s future. Former prison worker Joyce Mitchell, who’d helped two murderers escape from a maximum-security lockup, said she regretted her “horrible mistake” as she was sentenced in Plattsburgh, New York, to up to seven years behind bars. Trevor Noah debuted as host of “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central. Frankie Ford, 76, a rock ‘n’ roll and rhythm and blues singer whose 1959 hit “Sea Cruise” brought him international fame at age 19, died in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.

One year ago: A massive pro-democracy rally in downtown Hong Kong ended early and violently, with police firing tear gas and a water cannon after protesters threw bricks and Molotov cocktails at government buildings. Voters in Afghanistan went to the polls to elect a president for the fourth time since a U.S.-led coalition ousted the Taliban regime in 2001; the vote was marred by violence, Taliban threats and widespread allegations of mismanagement. (After a series of delays, the country’s independent election commission announced in February that Ashraf Ghani had won a second term as president.)

Today’s Birthdays: Actor Brigitte Bardot is 86. Actor Joel Higgins is 77. Singer Helen Shapiro is 74. Actor Vernee Watson is 71. Movie writer-director-actor John Sayles is 70. Rock musician George Lynch is 66. Zydeco singer-musician C.J. Chenier (sheh-NEER’) is 63. Actor Steve Hytner is 61. Actor-comedian Janeane Garofalo (juh-NEEN’ guh-RAH’-fuh-loh) is 56. Country singer Matt King is 54. Actor Mira Sorvino is 53. TV personality/singer Moon Zappa is 53. Actor-model Carre Otis is 52. Actor Naomi Watts is 52. Country singer Karen Fairchild (Little Big Town) is 51. Singer/songwriter A.J. Croce is 49. Country singer Mandy Barnett is 45. Rapper Young Jeezy is 43. World Golf Hall of Famer Se Ri Pak is 43. Actor Peter Cambor is 42. Writer-producer-director-actor Bam Margera is 41. Actor Melissa Claire Egan is 39. Actor Jerrika Hinton is 39. Neo-soul musician Luke Mossman (Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats ) is 39. Pop-rock singer St. Vincent is 38. Comedian/actor Phoebe Robinson is 36. Rock musician Daniel Platzman (Imagine Dragons) is 34. Actor Hilary Duff is 33. Actor Keir Gilchrist is 28.

Today in HistoryToday is Monday, Sept. 28, the 272nd day of 2020. There are 94 days left in the year.Today’s Highlight in History:On Sept. 28, 1928, Scottish medical researcher Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first effective antibiotic.On this date:In 1066, William the Conqueror invaded England to claim the English throne.In 1781, American forces in the Revolutionary War, backed by a French fleet, began their successful siege of Yorktown, Va.In 1787, the Congress of the Confederation voted to send the just-completed Constitution of the United States to state legislatures for their approval.In 1850, flogging was abolished as a form of punishment in the U.S. Navy.In 1892, the first nighttime football game took place in Mansfield, Pennsylvania, as teams from Mansfield State Normal and Wyoming Seminary played under electric lights to a scoreless tie.In 1920, eight members of the Chicago White Sox were indicted for allegedly throwing the 1919 World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. (All were acquitted at trial, but all eight were banned from the game for life.)In 1962, a federal appeals court found Mississippi Gov. Ross Barnett in civil contempt for blocking the admission of James Meredith, a Black student, to the University of Mississippi. (Federal marshals escorted Meredith onto the campus two days later.)In 1964, comedian Harpo Marx, 75, died in Los Angeles.In 1976, Muhammad Ali kept his world heavyweight boxing championship with a close 15-round decision over Ken Norton at New York’s Yankee Stadium.In 1989, deposed Philippine President Ferdinand E. Marcos died in exile in Hawaii at age 72.In 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO chairman Yasser Arafat signed an accord at the White House ending Israel’s military occupation of West Bank cities and laying the foundation for a Palestinian state.In 2000, capping a 12-year battle, the government approved use of the abortion pill RU-486.Ten years ago: The youngest son of North Korean President Kim Jong Il, Kim Jong Un, was selected for his first leadership post in the ruling Workers Party, putting him well on the path to succeed his father. Movie director Arthur Penn (“Bonnie and Clyde”) died in New York a day after turning 88.Five years ago: President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin, meeting at the United Nations, agreed to discuss a political transition in Syria but remained at odds about what that would mean for Syria leader Bashar Assad’s future. Former prison worker Joyce Mitchell, who’d helped two murderers escape from a maximum-security lockup, said she regretted her “horrible mistake” as she was sentenced in Plattsburgh, New York, to up to seven years behind bars. Trevor Noah debuted as host of “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central. Frankie Ford, 76, a rock ‘n’ roll and rhythm and blues singer whose 1959 hit “Sea Cruise” brought him international fame at age 19, died in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.One year ago: A massive pro-democracy rally in downtown Hong Kong ended early and violently, with police firing tear gas and a water cannon after protesters threw bricks and Molotov cocktails at government buildings. Voters in Afghanistan went to the polls to elect a president for the fourth time since a U.S.-led coalition ousted the Taliban regime in 2001; the vote was marred by violence, Taliban threats and widespread allegations of mismanagement. (After a series of delays, the country’s independent election commission announced in February that Ashraf Ghani had won a second term as president.)Today’s Birthdays: Actor Brigitte Bardot is 86. Actor Joel Higgins is 77. Singer Helen Shapiro is 74. Actor Vernee Watson is 71. Movie writer-director-actor John Sayles is 70. Rock musician George Lynch is 66. Zydeco singer-musician C.J. Chenier (sheh-NEER’) is 63. Actor Steve Hytner is 61. Actor-comedian Janeane Garofalo (juh-NEEN’ guh-RAH’-fuh-loh) is 56. Country singer Matt King is 54. Actor Mira Sorvino is 53. TV personality/singer Moon Zappa is 53. Actor-model Carre Otis is 52. Actor Naomi Watts is 52. Country singer Karen Fairchild (Little Big Town) is 51. Singer/songwriter A.J. Croce is 49. Country singer Mandy Barnett is 45. Rapper Young Jeezy is 43. World Golf Hall of Famer Se Ri Pak is 43. Actor Peter Cambor is 42. Writer-producer-director-actor Bam Margera is 41. Actor Melissa Claire Egan is 39. Actor Jerrika Hinton is 39. Neo-soul musician Luke Mossman (Nathaniel Rateliff &amp; the Night Sweats ) is 39. Pop-rock singer St. Vincent is 38. Comedian/actor Phoebe Robinson is 36. Rock musician Daniel Platzman (Imagine Dragons) is 34. Actor Hilary Duff is 33. Actor Keir Gilchrist is 28.

Today in History-September 28

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts praised President Donald J. Trump’s decision to nominate Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacancy on the United States Supreme Court.

“Under the Constitution, the President is tasked with the responsibility of nominating Justices to the Supreme Court,” said Governor Ricketts.&nbsp; “President Trump has a terrific record of appointing judges who respect the Constitution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Judge Amy Coney Barrett is highly qualified to serve on our nation’s highest court.&nbsp;&nbsp;She has an outstanding record of respecting the Constitution and the rule of law, and I strongly urge the U.S. Senate to swiftly confirm her nomination.”

The U.S. Supreme Court consists of nine Justices, but it currently has only eight members due to the passing of former Justice Ginsburg on September 18, 2020.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts praised President Donald J. Trump’s decision to nominate Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacancy on the United States Supreme Court.“Under the Constitution, the President is tasked with the responsibility of nominating Justices to the Supreme Court,” said Governor Ricketts.&nbsp; “President Trump has a terrific record of appointing judges who respect the Constitution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Judge Amy Coney Barrett is highly qualified to serve on our nation’s highest court.&nbsp;&nbsp;She has an outstanding record of respecting the Constitution and the rule of law, and I strongly urge the U.S. Senate to swiftly confirm her nomination.”The U.S. Supreme Court consists of nine Justices, but it currently has only eight members due to the passing of former Justice Ginsburg on September 18, 2020.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts praises President Trump's Supreme Court pick

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) - A former Nebraska state trooper who was shown on video hitting a drunken driver from Colorado with his service rifle has been charged with a federal crime.

Lindsey Bixby, of Ellsworth, was charged Friday with deprivation of rights, U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly said in a news release.

Gov. Pete Ricketts cited the patrol's handling of the Bixby allegations as one reason he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a7f8ee5016524cadb5fc6e50da6847b4" target="_blank">fired&nbsp;</a>Col. Brad Rice as patrol superintendent in October 2017, The Kearney Hub&nbsp;<a href="https://kearneyhub.com/news/state-and-regional/former-nebraska-state-trooper-charged-for-2016-excessive-force-incident/article_1c4f12d6-fff6-11ea-b6ff-a74a1f5befe4.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_KearneyHub" target="_blank">reported</a>.

A video taken on March 4, 2016, showed Bixby hitting a Colorado man in the head with his rifle after the man refused to refused to get on the ground at the end of a police pursuit in Sioux County.

The man was later sentenced to two years' probation for misdemeanors related to the pursuit.

Sioux County prosecutors did not charge Bixby, who resigned from the patrol. The incident did not become public for more than a year after it occurred.

Rice was fired after an investigation found patrol leaders tried to influence the outcome of at least four internal reviews - including the Bixby case. Investigators said the patrol also didn't disclose a dozen alleged cases of trooper misconduct and didn't properly investigate sexual harassment accusations.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ar5EAARsXHE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) - A former Nebraska state trooper who was shown on video hitting a drunken driver from Colorado with his service rifle has been charged with a federal crime.Lindsey Bixby, of Ellsworth, was charged Friday with deprivation of rights, U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly said in a news release.Gov. Pete Ricketts cited the patrol's handling of the Bixby allegations as one reason he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a7f8ee5016524cadb5fc6e50da6847b4" target="_blank">fired&nbsp;</a>Col. Brad Rice as patrol superintendent in October 2017, The Kearney Hub&nbsp;<a href="https://kearneyhub.com/news/state-and-regional/former-nebraska-state-trooper-charged-for-2016-excessive-force-incident/article_1c4f12d6-fff6-11ea-b6ff-a74a1f5befe4.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_KearneyHub" target="_blank">reported</a>.A video taken on March 4, 2016, showed Bixby hitting a Colorado man in the head with his rifle after the man refused to refused to get on the ground at the end of a police pursuit in Sioux County.The man was later sentenced to two years' probation for misdemeanors related to the pursuit.Sioux County prosecutors did not charge Bixby, who resigned from the patrol. The incident did not become public for more than a year after it occurred.Rice was fired after an investigation found patrol leaders tried to influence the outcome of at least four internal reviews - including the Bixby case. Investigators said the patrol also didn't disclose a dozen alleged cases of trooper misconduct and didn't properly investigate sexual harassment accusations.

🎥 Ex-Nebraska trooper accused of striking drunken driver with service rifle

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners Agenda (September 28, 2020)

WCDHD on Facebook<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fposts%2F1749982735156749&width=500" width="500" height="703" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

WCDHD reports 8 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday

By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com">High Plains Journal</a>

President Donald J. Trump and U.S. 
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue recently announced that up to $14 
billion will be available to help producers who face market disruptions 
and associated costs because of COVID-19 and the news was endorsed in 
the industry.

The aid was 
authorized as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security 
Act signed into law in March. The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 
has already distributed one round of direct payments to agricultural 
producers whose markets have been disrupted or lost due to the pandemic,
 according to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and 
Forestry. On Aug. 11, U.S. Department of Agriculture announced approximately 60 additional commodities that would be eligible for assistance under CFAP.

U.S.
 Sen. Pat Roberts, R-KS, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, 
thanked Trump and Perdue for their efforts to help farmers and ranchers 
who have continued to feed the world amidst depressed commodity prices 
and disrupted markets.&nbsp;

“I have heard directly from our farmers 
and ranchers about the harsh conditions in farm country. I will continue
 to advocate for certainty and predictability for agricultural 
producers, especially during these challenging and unprecedented times,”
 Roberts said.

Congress 
authorized funding for CFAP in the CARES Act, which was approved by a 
unanimous vote in the U.S. Senate and signed by Trump into law on March 
27. The CARES Act included $9.5 billion in funds to assist agricultural 
producers and resources to partially replenish the Commodity Credit 
Corporation. Additionally, Congress provided flexibility for Perdue to 
purchase commodities for emergency distribution in the Families First 
Coronavirus Response Act.&nbsp;

House Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson, D-MN, said the program will help but much work is ahead.

“There
 are some good things in this second CFAP plan, and the secretary should
 be commended for simplifying the application process for specialty crop
 growers and making sure livestock producers, like the turkey growers in
 my district, have what they need. It also expands the program to all 
classes of wheat and makes sure most commodities left out in the first 
round receive some support,” Peterson said. “And while this version of 
CFAP takes those good steps, there is some frustration over the 
participation rate among some sectors, including specialty crop 
producers.

“I still want to see
 help for the ethanol industry that has been hurt by the drop in fuel 
demand, textile mills that are helping create COVID medical supplies, 
pork and poultry producers that had to depopulate as a result of plant 
closures, and contract growers who have faced loss of income.”

House
 Agriculture Committee Ranking Member K. Michael Conaway, R-TX, said the
 program was needed relief for farmers, ranchers and dairy producers but
 expressed concern the Democratic leadership might block Commodity 
Credit Corporation funding that would halt farm bill funding and further
 COVID-19 relief.

“Sadly, the 
aid could have been much stronger had Congressional Democrats not 
blocked critical funding of the Department of Agriculture through the 
Commodity Credit Corporation during the CARES Act debate,” Conaway said.
 “Now, Democrats are trying once again to block USDA funding in the 
debate over the continuing resolution, which Congress must approve this 
month to keep the government open.”

Roberts
 took to the Senate floor to urge colleagues to replenish the CCC, which
 is used to implement farm bill programs and to provide additional 
assistance to agricultural producers affected by the pandemic. Failure 
to replenish the CCC would jeopardize the continued implementation of 
2018 farm bill programs and hurt already struggling farmers, ranchers 
and growers.

U.S. Rep. Roger 
Marshall, R-KS, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, said 
farmers and ranchers never missed a day of work due to COVID but they 
faced serious challenges associated with the ongoing pandemic.

“This
 second round of payments continues this administration’s commitment to 
the agriculture industry and includes all Kansas wheat farmers, many of 
which were left out of the first round of payments,” Marshall said. “It 
is essential we continue to provide our hard working farmers, ranchers 
and farm families with the resources and assistance necessary to 
continue providing Americans and the world the safest, highest quality 
and most affordable food supply in the world.”

Grower groups and others organizations were supportive of the actions of the $14 billion program.

“It’s
 been a tough year for agriculture and there’s still a lot of 
uncertainty across the Corn Belt as we head into harvest,” said National
 Corn Growers Association President Kevin Ross. “We’re doing all we can 
to get back on solid ground but we can’t do it alone, which is why 
today’s announcement is a positive and welcome step forward.”

NCGA
 analysis projects a $59 per acre average revenue decline for the 2019 
corn crop and an $89 per acre average revenue decline for 2020, compared
 to pre-COVID-19 projections. If realized, the 2020 crop year revenue 
would be the lowest corn revenues since 2006. Residual impacts from 
COVID-19 on corn prices are very likely to persist into 2021 and 
possibly beyond.

The Iowa Corn Growers Association said an Aug. 10 derecho damaged millions of acres of corn on top of the coronavirus’ impact.

“The
 Iowa Corn Growers Association has continually contacted&nbsp;Secretary 
Perdue by personally handing him a letter and speaking directly to him 
at the beginning of the month urging him and the administration to 
provide additional relief for our farmers including&nbsp;CFAP payments,” said
 ICGA President Carl Jardon.

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said the program should help the state’s producers.

“The
 COVID-19 pandemic continues to create significant market and trade 
disruptions, and this poses very real challenges for Iowa farmers. The 
agriculture economy will rebound but it will take time,” Naig said, 
adding the program helps turkey producers because they have also been 
impacted by the coronavirus. “I’m very pleased to see Iowa’s turkey 
producers were included in this round of CFAP funding, as they too have 
been hit hard by the decreased demand at delis and quick-service 
restaurants.”

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association said monies will help cattle producers.

“We
 are pleased to see that USDA is using unspent funds in the Coronavirus 
Food Assistance Program to provide further relief to cattle producers 
who have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said NCBA Vice 
President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “The initial CFAP
 payments served as an important stopgap in the immediate wake of the 
coronavirus. Unfortunately, many in our industry are still reeling from 
abnormal marketing decisions they were forced to make in the spring, 
unprecedented supply chain disruptions, and an overall tumultuous farm 
economy.&nbsp;

He said the organization is calling on Congress to eliminate the program’s remaining disparities.

Two farmer and rancher organizations also echoed the need for relief.

The
 second round of aid may provide added relief, according to the American
 Farm Bureau Federation. Almost $10 billion from the first CFAP provided
 much-needed support to livestock, dairy, non-specialty and specialty 
crop producers throughout the country. Many farmers were initially left 
out of CFAP, and although the program was expanded to include more 
commodities, aid was only made available for losses suffered before 
April 15, 2020, the AFBF noted. The deadline for most producers to apply
 for the first round of CFAP assistance expired on Sept. 11.

“Farmers
 and ranchers saw demand for their markets disappear during the initial 
shockwave of the pandemic. Even though concerns over food supplies have 
now subsided, the economic hardships are still taking their toll on farm
 families across the country,” said American Farm Bureau Federation 
President Zippy Duvall. “We don’t know when this pandemic will end and 
we are still feeling the effects of trade imbalances and severe weather.
 This lifeline will keep farmers and ranchers afloat as they continue to
 keep America’s pantries stocked.”

In
 a statement, National Farmers Union President Rob Larew conveyed 
appreciation for the financial support and urged that it be distributed 
to those who need it most. Citing economy-wide impacts and high 
unemployment rates, he also called on Congress to provide the relief 
hungry Americans and rural communities need to withstand this crisis.

“Even
 as restrictions ease, it is evident that farmers will be feeling the 
effects of the pandemic for quite some time. Markets have been slow to 
recover, prices remain low and processing facilities are still backed 
up. While these challenges persist, farmers will certainly need 
assistance to stay solvent—and we are grateful that USDA is providing it
 through another round of CFAP.

“This
 support is absolutely crucial—but it is just as crucial that it is 
distributed fairly and equitably. The first round of funding, though 
greatly appreciated, was not without its flaws; not only did it favor 
large farms over smaller ones, it also sent millions of dollars to 
foreign-owned operations and excluded some farmers entirely. With 
congressional oversight, we ask that USDA rectify these issues and 
ensure that payments are commensurate with demonstrated need.

“It’s
 important to note that farmers are by far not the only Americans in 
need of relief right now; millions are out of work and experiencing food
 insecurity, family-owned businesses are struggling to stay afloat, 
already strained rural hospitals are hemorrhaging money, and students 
without broadband access are falling behind in school. It’s unacceptable
 that it has been months since these groups have received any help at 
all; Congress must act quickly to provide the support that all Americans
 need to withstand this crisis.”

Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or <a href="mailto:dbergmeier@hpj.com">dbergmeier@hpj.com</a>. Republished with permission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601059498543.png" alt="By Larry Carver, Hutchinson, Kansas." />
 <figcaption>By Larry Carver, Hutchinson, Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com">High Plains Journal</a>President Donald J. Trump and U.S. 
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue recently announced that up to $14 
billion will be available to help producers who face market disruptions 
and associated costs because of COVID-19 and the news was endorsed in 
the industry.The aid was 
authorized as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security 
Act signed into law in March. The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 
has already distributed one round of direct payments to agricultural 
producers whose markets have been disrupted or lost due to the pandemic,
 according to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and 
Forestry. On Aug. 11, U.S. Department of Agriculture announced approximately 60 additional commodities that would be eligible for assistance under CFAP.U.S.
 Sen. Pat Roberts, R-KS, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, 
thanked Trump and Perdue for their efforts to help farmers and ranchers 
who have continued to feed the world amidst depressed commodity prices 
and disrupted markets.&nbsp;“I have heard directly from our farmers 
and ranchers about the harsh conditions in farm country. I will continue
 to advocate for certainty and predictability for agricultural 
producers, especially during these challenging and unprecedented times,”
 Roberts said.Congress 
authorized funding for CFAP in the CARES Act, which was approved by a 
unanimous vote in the U.S. Senate and signed by Trump into law on March 
27. The CARES Act included $9.5 billion in funds to assist agricultural 
producers and resources to partially replenish the Commodity Credit 
Corporation. Additionally, Congress provided flexibility for Perdue to 
purchase commodities for emergency distribution in the Families First 
Coronavirus Response Act.&nbsp;House Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson, D-MN, said the program will help but much work is ahead.“There
 are some good things in this second CFAP plan, and the secretary should
 be commended for simplifying the application process for specialty crop
 growers and making sure livestock producers, like the turkey growers in
 my district, have what they need. It also expands the program to all 
classes of wheat and makes sure most commodities left out in the first 
round receive some support,” Peterson said. “And while this version of 
CFAP takes those good steps, there is some frustration over the 
participation rate among some sectors, including specialty crop 
producers.“I still want to see
 help for the ethanol industry that has been hurt by the drop in fuel 
demand, textile mills that are helping create COVID medical supplies, 
pork and poultry producers that had to depopulate as a result of plant 
closures, and contract growers who have faced loss of income.”House
 Agriculture Committee Ranking Member K. Michael Conaway, R-TX, said the
 program was needed relief for farmers, ranchers and dairy producers but
 expressed concern the Democratic leadership might block Commodity 
Credit Corporation funding that would halt farm bill funding and further
 COVID-19 relief.“Sadly, the 
aid could have been much stronger had Congressional Democrats not 
blocked critical funding of the Department of Agriculture through the 
Commodity Credit Corporation during the CARES Act debate,” Conaway said.
 “Now, Democrats are trying once again to block USDA funding in the 
debate over the continuing resolution, which Congress must approve this 
month to keep the government open.”Roberts
 took to the Senate floor to urge colleagues to replenish the CCC, which
 is used to implement farm bill programs and to provide additional 
assistance to agricultural producers affected by the pandemic. Failure 
to replenish the CCC would jeopardize the continued implementation of 
2018 farm bill programs and hurt already struggling farmers, ranchers 
and growers.U.S. Rep. Roger 
Marshall, R-KS, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, said 
farmers and ranchers never missed a day of work due to COVID but they 
faced serious challenges associated with the ongoing pandemic.“This
 second round of payments continues this administration’s commitment to 
the agriculture industry and includes all Kansas wheat farmers, many of 
which were left out of the first round of payments,” Marshall said. “It 
is essential we continue to provide our hard working farmers, ranchers 
and farm families with the resources and assistance necessary to 
continue providing Americans and the world the safest, highest quality 
and most affordable food supply in the world.”<h2>Additional comments</h2>Grower groups and others organizations were supportive of the actions of the $14 billion program.“It’s
 been a tough year for agriculture and there’s still a lot of 
uncertainty across the Corn Belt as we head into harvest,” said National
 Corn Growers Association President Kevin Ross. “We’re doing all we can 
to get back on solid ground but we can’t do it alone, which is why 
today’s announcement is a positive and welcome step forward.”NCGA
 analysis projects a $59 per acre average revenue decline for the 2019 
corn crop and an $89 per acre average revenue decline for 2020, compared
 to pre-COVID-19 projections. If realized, the 2020 crop year revenue 
would be the lowest corn revenues since 2006. Residual impacts from 
COVID-19 on corn prices are very likely to persist into 2021 and 
possibly beyond.The Iowa Corn Growers Association said an Aug. 10 derecho damaged millions of acres of corn on top of the coronavirus’ impact.“The
 Iowa Corn Growers Association has continually contacted&nbsp;Secretary 
Perdue by personally handing him a letter and speaking directly to him 
at the beginning of the month urging him and the administration to 
provide additional relief for our farmers including&nbsp;CFAP payments,” said
 ICGA President Carl Jardon.Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said the program should help the state’s producers.“The
 COVID-19 pandemic continues to create significant market and trade 
disruptions, and this poses very real challenges for Iowa farmers. The 
agriculture economy will rebound but it will take time,” Naig said, 
adding the program helps turkey producers because they have also been 
impacted by the coronavirus. “I’m very pleased to see Iowa’s turkey 
producers were included in this round of CFAP funding, as they too have 
been hit hard by the decreased demand at delis and quick-service 
restaurants.”The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association said monies will help cattle producers.“We
 are pleased to see that USDA is using unspent funds in the Coronavirus 
Food Assistance Program to provide further relief to cattle producers 
who have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said NCBA Vice 
President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “The initial CFAP
 payments served as an important stopgap in the immediate wake of the 
coronavirus. Unfortunately, many in our industry are still reeling from 
abnormal marketing decisions they were forced to make in the spring, 
unprecedented supply chain disruptions, and an overall tumultuous farm 
economy.&nbsp;He said the organization is calling on Congress to eliminate the program’s remaining disparities.Two farmer and rancher organizations also echoed the need for relief.The
 second round of aid may provide added relief, according to the American
 Farm Bureau Federation. Almost $10 billion from the first CFAP provided
 much-needed support to livestock, dairy, non-specialty and specialty 
crop producers throughout the country. Many farmers were initially left 
out of CFAP, and although the program was expanded to include more 
commodities, aid was only made available for losses suffered before 
April 15, 2020, the AFBF noted. The deadline for most producers to apply
 for the first round of CFAP assistance expired on Sept. 11.“Farmers
 and ranchers saw demand for their markets disappear during the initial 
shockwave of the pandemic. Even though concerns over food supplies have 
now subsided, the economic hardships are still taking their toll on farm
 families across the country,” said American Farm Bureau Federation 
President Zippy Duvall. “We don’t know when this pandemic will end and 
we are still feeling the effects of trade imbalances and severe weather.
 This lifeline will keep farmers and ranchers afloat as they continue to
 keep America’s pantries stocked.”In
 a statement, National Farmers Union President Rob Larew conveyed 
appreciation for the financial support and urged that it be distributed 
to those who need it most. Citing economy-wide impacts and high 
unemployment rates, he also called on Congress to provide the relief 
hungry Americans and rural communities need to withstand this crisis.“Even
 as restrictions ease, it is evident that farmers will be feeling the 
effects of the pandemic for quite some time. Markets have been slow to 
recover, prices remain low and processing facilities are still backed 
up. While these challenges persist, farmers will certainly need 
assistance to stay solvent—and we are grateful that USDA is providing it
 through another round of CFAP.“This
 support is absolutely crucial—but it is just as crucial that it is 
distributed fairly and equitably. The first round of funding, though 
greatly appreciated, was not without its flaws; not only did it favor 
large farms over smaller ones, it also sent millions of dollars to 
foreign-owned operations and excluded some farmers entirely. With 
congressional oversight, we ask that USDA rectify these issues and 
ensure that payments are commensurate with demonstrated need.“It’s
 important to note that farmers are by far not the only Americans in 
need of relief right now; millions are out of work and experiencing food
 insecurity, family-owned businesses are struggling to stay afloat, 
already strained rural hospitals are hemorrhaging money, and students 
without broadband access are falling behind in school. It’s unacceptable
 that it has been months since these groups have received any help at 
all; Congress must act quickly to provide the support that all Americans
 need to withstand this crisis.”Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or <a href="mailto:dbergmeier@hpj.com">dbergmeier@hpj.com</a>. Republished with permission.

Coronavirus relief package welcome news in hurting ag economy

INCLUDING THE CITIES OF CHAPPELL, BIG SPRINGS, OGALLALA, PAXTON, 
GRANT, CHAMPION, ENDERS, IMPERIAL, AND WAUNETA



WHAT...REDUCED VISIBILITY OF 1 MILE OR LESS AT TIMES DUE TO SMOKE
FROM WESTERN WILDFIRES. 



WHERE...ACROSS SOUTHWEST NEBRASKA INTO PORTIONS OF THE SOUTHEAST 
PANHANDLE.



IMPACTS: SMOKE AT THE SURFACE IS CREATING LOW VISIBILITY OF 1 MILE
OR LESS AT TIMES. ASH HAS ALSO BEEN REPORTED FALLING ON SURFACES,
USE CAUTION IF OUTDOORS.&nbsp;&nbsp; LINCOLN COUNTY IS COVERED IN SMOKE FROM A FIRE IN KEITH COUNTY AT LAKE MAC ARTHUR BAY NO ACTIVE FIRES IN NORTH PLATTE OR LINCOLN COUNTY&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601150814650.png" alt="From @NWSNorthPlatte (Twitter)" />
 <figcaption>From @NWSNorthPlatte (Twitter)</figcaption>
 </figure>LOW VISIBILITY DUE TO SMOKEDEUEL-KEITH-PERKINS-CHASE-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF CHAPPELL, BIG SPRINGS, OGALLALA, PAXTON, 
GRANT, CHAMPION, ENDERS, IMPERIAL, AND WAUNETA
REDUCED VISIBILITY DUE TO SMOKE...

WHAT...REDUCED VISIBILITY OF 1 MILE OR LESS AT TIMES DUE TO SMOKE
FROM WESTERN WILDFIRES. 

WHERE...ACROSS SOUTHWEST NEBRASKA INTO PORTIONS OF THE SOUTHEAST 
PANHANDLE.

WHEN...THROUGH 6 PM MDT SATURDAY

IMPACTS: SMOKE AT THE SURFACE IS CREATING LOW VISIBILITY OF 1 MILE
OR LESS AT TIMES. ASH HAS ALSO BEEN REPORTED FALLING ON SURFACES,
USE CAUTION IF OUTDOORS.&nbsp;&nbsp; LINCOLN COUNTY IS COVERED IN SMOKE FROM A FIRE IN KEITH COUNTY AT LAKE MAC ARTHUR BAY NO ACTIVE FIRES IN NORTH PLATTE OR LINCOLN COUNTY&nbsp; <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Smoky skies this morning obscuring the sun here in North Platte. Anyone else seeing the smoky skies? Share your photos with location! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/5EVAYiXR7x">pic.twitter.com/5EVAYiXR7x</a>&mdash; NWS North Platte (@NWSNorthPlatte) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSNorthPlatte/status/1309860538550157312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Weather service warns of low visibility due to smoke in southwest Nebraska

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-NebraskaLand University is scheduled to begin the first session on Monday, October 5,&nbsp;2020, in the Banquet Room on the third floor of NebraskaLand National Bank, 1400 South Dewey. The session begins promptly at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Thirty-one area high school seniors were accepted into the program for the 2020-2021 sessions.&nbsp;

NebraskaLand University is a six-course financial literacy program designed to educate students on budgeting, savings, credit, loans, career development, identity theft protection, and more.&nbsp; The curriculum uses a combination of established financial literacy materials and unique lesson plans created and instructed by Senior and Executive Officers at NebraskaLand National Bank.&nbsp;

Each student is required to complete all six classes in order to graduate and receive a $250.00 scholarship.&nbsp; Students must also complete projects and homework as assigned as well as an essay.&nbsp; Essays will be reviewed and judged by a Bank committee.&nbsp; The students with the highest scores will be the recipients of a $1,000.00, $750.00, and $500.00 scholarship. Through the course, students will receive invaluable financial lessons as well as career development and wealth-building knowledge.&nbsp;

News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-NebraskaLand University is scheduled to begin the first session on Monday, October 5,&nbsp;2020, in the Banquet Room on the third floor of NebraskaLand National Bank, 1400 South Dewey. The session begins promptly at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Thirty-one area high school seniors were accepted into the program for the 2020-2021 sessions.&nbsp;NebraskaLand University is a six-course financial literacy program designed to educate students on budgeting, savings, credit, loans, career development, identity theft protection, and more.&nbsp; The curriculum uses a combination of established financial literacy materials and unique lesson plans created and instructed by Senior and Executive Officers at NebraskaLand National Bank.&nbsp;Each student is required to complete all six classes in order to graduate and receive a $250.00 scholarship.&nbsp; Students must also complete projects and homework as assigned as well as an essay.&nbsp; Essays will be reviewed and judged by a Bank committee.&nbsp; The students with the highest scores will be the recipients of a $1,000.00, $750.00, and $500.00 scholarship. Through the course, students will receive invaluable financial lessons as well as career development and wealth-building knowledge.&nbsp;

NebraskaLand University welcomes 31 students

LINCOLN, Neb. – Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can discover the outdoors by participating in the second annual Nebraska Fish Art Contest.

The 2021 contest, which is sponsored by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Wildlife Forever and Bass Pro Shops, is accepting entries through March 31, 2021. Enter at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjQuMjc2OTc2NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy53aWxkbGlmZWZvcmV2ZXIub3JnL2hvbWUvc3RhdGUtZmlzaC1hcnQvIn0.0Rzp94Y9NpDzUeF5KW2WSsaykTc44SzxTxvqVW34E-Q/s/497221905/br/85934566500-l" target="_blank">statefishart.org</a>.

This free international art and writing competition gives young people the opportunity to highlight their artistic talents while learning about fish, fishing and aquatic conservation. Participants can win prizes and recognition in Nebraska and internationally.

Young artists create an original illustration of a species from the Official Fish List and also submit a one-page creative writing detailing their species habitat and efforts to conserve it. Entries are categorized in four grade levels: K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. Educators nationwide use Fish On!, the State-Fish Art Lesson Plan, integrating the disciplines of science and art. Judging will be held in April and winners announced in May.

The 2021 contest also has many specialty award categories and opportunities for additional prizes and recognition, such as the Fish Habitat Award, Western Native Trout Award, and Guy Harvey Award.

“The Nebraska Fish Art Contest was quite popular in its first year,” said Larry Pape, Game and Parks aquatic education specialist. “Students really were engaged in incorporating art, science and conservation education in this fun project.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569891809219.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can discover the outdoors by participating in the second annual Nebraska Fish Art Contest.The 2021 contest, which is sponsored by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Wildlife Forever and Bass Pro Shops, is accepting entries through March 31, 2021. Enter at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjQuMjc2OTc2NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy53aWxkbGlmZWZvcmV2ZXIub3JnL2hvbWUvc3RhdGUtZmlzaC1hcnQvIn0.0Rzp94Y9NpDzUeF5KW2WSsaykTc44SzxTxvqVW34E-Q/s/497221905/br/85934566500-l" target="_blank">statefishart.org</a>.This free international art and writing competition gives young people the opportunity to highlight their artistic talents while learning about fish, fishing and aquatic conservation. Participants can win prizes and recognition in Nebraska and internationally.Young artists create an original illustration of a species from the Official Fish List and also submit a one-page creative writing detailing their species habitat and efforts to conserve it. Entries are categorized in four grade levels: K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. Educators nationwide use Fish On!, the State-Fish Art Lesson Plan, integrating the disciplines of science and art. Judging will be held in April and winners announced in May.The 2021 contest also has many specialty award categories and opportunities for additional prizes and recognition, such as the Fish Habitat Award, Western Native Trout Award, and Guy Harvey Award.“The Nebraska Fish Art Contest was quite popular in its first year,” said Larry Pape, Game and Parks aquatic education specialist. “Students really were engaged in incorporating art, science and conservation education in this fun project.”

2021 Nebraska Fish Art Contest open for entries

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Great Plains Health, in partnership with North Platte Fire and Rescue, North Platte Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s office, and the Nebraska State Patrol will conduct an active-shooter response drill from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 30 at Great Plains Health.

The training event will have an active shooter in the hospital and a coordinated response by first responders. There will be an increased presence of emergency vehicles and personnel at Great Plains Health, which may include law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks and ambulances.

The drill will help all partners evaluate their response in the event an active shooter enters a Great Plains Health facility to inflict harm on visitors and employees.

“Unfortunately, these types of events do happen in hospitals around the country, said Matt Odle, Great Plains Health emergency management coordinator. “Organizing and participating in ongoing training and drills is one of the best ways to prepare our staff to respond in a way that ultimately saves lives and mitigates tragedy.”&nbsp;

Areas that may be impacted by the exercise include the North Platte Health Pavilion and the emergency department. The main lobby area may also be part of the exercise. Signs will be posted throughout campus to inform visitors and employees that an active shooter exercise is underway.

Normal hospital operations will continue during the exercise.

News Release Great Plains HealthNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Great Plains Health, in partnership with North Platte Fire and Rescue, North Platte Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s office, and the Nebraska State Patrol will conduct an active-shooter response drill from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 30 at Great Plains Health.The training event will have an active shooter in the hospital and a coordinated response by first responders. There will be an increased presence of emergency vehicles and personnel at Great Plains Health, which may include law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks and ambulances.The drill will help all partners evaluate their response in the event an active shooter enters a Great Plains Health facility to inflict harm on visitors and employees.“Unfortunately, these types of events do happen in hospitals around the country, said Matt Odle, Great Plains Health emergency management coordinator. “Organizing and participating in ongoing training and drills is one of the best ways to prepare our staff to respond in a way that ultimately saves lives and mitigates tragedy.”&nbsp;Areas that may be impacted by the exercise include the North Platte Health Pavilion and the emergency department. The main lobby area may also be part of the exercise. Signs will be posted throughout campus to inform visitors and employees that an active shooter exercise is underway.Normal hospital operations will continue during the exercise.

Great Plains Health to hold active-shooter drill

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska public health officials have confirmed 453 new cases of the coronavirus but no new deaths, according to the latest available data.

The total number of known cases has reached 42,731 as of Thursday evening, according to the state's online tracking portal.

Of those cases, 462 people have died since the pandemic began. Nearly 438,000 people have been tested so far.

Despite the increase, the number of available hospital beds has remained stable. State officials say 33% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 27% of its intensive care unit beds and 80% of its ventilators are still available for coronavirus patients if needed.

For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska public health officials have confirmed 453 new cases of the coronavirus but no new deaths, according to the latest available data.The total number of known cases has reached 42,731 as of Thursday evening, according to the state's online tracking portal.Of those cases, 462 people have died since the pandemic began. Nearly 438,000 people have been tested so far.Despite the increase, the number of available hospital beds has remained stable. State officials say 33% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 27% of its intensive care unit beds and 80% of its ventilators are still available for coronavirus patients if needed.For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

Nebraska reports 453 new virus cases, no new deaths

Kearney Police Department News Release

Billy P. Herl Sr. (43) and Jenny F. Cleaveland (22), were taken into custody in Teller County, Colorado on Tuesday, September 22nd, in connection to the September 3rd Assault / Armed Robbery that occurred in Kearney.  Both subjects are charged with Robbery, Assault in the 1st Degree, Use of a Weapon to Commit a Felony, Theft, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited person.

At approximately 1:17 p.m. on Thursday, September 3rd, Kearney Police responded to CHI Good Samaritan Emergency Room for an assault/armed robbery report. The adult male victim reported he had been assaulted and robbed at a residence in south Kearney on September 2, 2020, sustaining serious injuries to his face and head. With information provided by the victim, investigators were able to identify two suspects in this case. 43-year-old, white male, Billy P. Herl Sr. and 22-year-old, white female, Jenny F. Cleaveland. Both suspects are believed to be homeless and have been seen panhandling at several intersections in Kearney over the past week. The female has been seen with a small dog and cardboard sign.  

Felony arrest warrants for both suspects have been issued for 1st Degree Assault, Robbery, Use Of a Weapon to Commit a Felony, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.  Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Herl and Cleaveland are asked to call 911 and not approach the suspects.  

If you have information about this case, please contact Investigator Amy Trausch of the Kearney Police Department at (308)237-2104, Buffalo County Crimestoppers at (308) 237-3424, or you can submit your tip using the See it, Say it, Send it App.   

Check out our web site at www.cityofkearney.org. 

We are sending this News Release as a service to the news media and citizens of Kearney. 

Kearney Police Department News ReleaseUPDATE - ARMED ROBBERY/ASSAULT Billy P. Herl Sr. (43) and Jenny F. Cleaveland (22), were taken into custody in Teller County, Colorado on Tuesday, September 22nd, in connection to the September 3rd Assault / Armed Robbery that occurred in Kearney. Both subjects are charged with Robbery, Assault in the 1st Degree, Use of a Weapon to Commit a Felony, Theft, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited person.At approximately 1:17 p.m. on Thursday, September 3rd, Kearney Police responded to CHI Good Samaritan Emergency Room for an assault/armed robbery report. The adult male victim reported he had been assaulted and robbed at a residence in south Kearney on September 2, 2020, sustaining serious injuries to his face and head. With information provided by the victim, investigators were able to identify two suspects in this case. 43-year-old, white male, Billy P. Herl Sr. and 22-year-old, white female, Jenny F. Cleaveland. Both suspects are believed to be homeless and have been seen panhandling at several intersections in Kearney over the past week. The female has been seen with a small dog and cardboard sign. Felony arrest warrants for both suspects have been issued for 1st Degree Assault, Robbery, Use Of a Weapon to Commit a Felony, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Herl and Cleaveland are asked to call 911 and not approach the suspects. If you have information about this case, please contact Investigator Amy Trausch of the Kearney Police Department at (308)237-2104, Buffalo County Crimestoppers at (308) 237-3424, or you can submit your tip using the See it, Say it, Send it App. Check out our web site at www.cityofkearney.org. We are sending this News Release as a service to the news media and citizens of Kearney. pc:

Suspects in Kearney armed robbery arrested in Colorado

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Medicine will resume normal operations "in days" following a cyberattack that shut down computer systems early Sunday, health system officials said.

Officials described the outage in a statement Thursday as a "significant information technology system downtime event. It led to the postponement of appointments for patients with elective procedures or other non-critical health concerns, The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/local/nebraska-medicine-says-normal-operations-should-resume-in-days-after-cyberattack/article_b0d17205-d91e-5402-8ea5-c4e7dae49dee.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>.

The statement, which was provided by Dr. James Linder, Nebraska Medicine's chief executive officer, said that the system's emergency rooms have remained open, and no patients were diverted to other hospitals.

"People have done a yeoman's job in making sure we deliver good patient care," Linder told the newspaper.

No patients' electronic medical records were deleted or destroyed, thanks to the system's back-up and recovery processes.

The statement did not include any further information about the attack's nature, extent or origins, nor did officials address whether patient medical or financial information had been exposed.

Note: This has impacted Great Plains Health in North Platte. See the original story HERE

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Medicine will resume normal operations "in days" following a cyberattack that shut down computer systems early Sunday, health system officials said.Officials described the outage in a statement Thursday as a "significant information technology system downtime event. It led to the postponement of appointments for patients with elective procedures or other non-critical health concerns, The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/local/nebraska-medicine-says-normal-operations-should-resume-in-days-after-cyberattack/article_b0d17205-d91e-5402-8ea5-c4e7dae49dee.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>.The statement, which was provided by Dr. James Linder, Nebraska Medicine's chief executive officer, said that the system's emergency rooms have remained open, and no patients were diverted to other hospitals."People have done a yeoman's job in making sure we deliver good patient care," Linder told the newspaper.No patients' electronic medical records were deleted or destroyed, thanks to the system's back-up and recovery processes.The statement did not include any further information about the attack's nature, extent or origins, nor did officials address whether patient medical or financial information had been exposed.Note: This has impacted Great Plains Health in North Platte. See the original story HERE

Cyberattack shut down computer systems at Nebraska Medicine

9.25.2020 NPHS Football @ Lincoln NorthEast - LIVESTREAM

Jared J Webster, 26, North Platte and Emma Lee, 26, North Platte

Eric S Allision, 41, North Platte and Karen R Buresh, 36, North Platte

Published September 25, 2020Jared J Webster, 26, North Platte and Emma Lee, 26, North PlatteEric S Allision, 41, North Platte and Karen R Buresh, 36, North Platte

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte couple was arrested on child abuse allegations.

According to North Platte police, on September 23 the Lincoln County Attorney's Office issued detention orders on 3 juveniles (ages 8,5 and 3).  

Police say the parents of the juveniles are Heather and David Granados. 

According to police, Heather is currently on probation but had failed to meet with her probation officer since July.  A warrant was issued on Heather for probation violation.&nbsp;Heather has failed to show up for mandatory drug testing.

Police say Heather failed to answer the door when probation attempted to contact her.&nbsp; 

Police say the school-aged juveniles haven't gone to school or been enrolled in remote learning. As a result, a search warrant was sought for the Granados residence to serve the detention orders on the children. 

Police say the door of the residence had to be breached as the Granados' refused to answer it. Upon entry, officers found the living conditions in the home were unfit for juveniles. &nbsp;The juveniles were present and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services took custody of them. 

David and Heather were present and arrested on suspicion of child abuse and jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601050229450.jpeg" alt="David Granados" />
 <figcaption>David Granados</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte couple was arrested on child abuse allegations.According to North Platte police, on September 23 the Lincoln County Attorney's Office issued detention orders on 3 juveniles (ages 8,5 and 3). Police say the parents of the juveniles are Heather and David Granados. According to police, Heather is currently on probation but had failed to meet with her probation officer since July. A warrant was issued on Heather for probation violation.&nbsp;Heather has failed to show up for mandatory drug testing.Police say Heather failed to answer the door when probation attempted to contact her.&nbsp; Police say the school-aged juveniles haven't gone to school or been enrolled in remote learning. As a result, a search warrant was sought for the Granados residence to serve the detention orders on the children. Police say the door of the residence had to be breached as the Granados' refused to answer it. Upon entry, officers found the living conditions in the home were unfit for juveniles. &nbsp;The juveniles were present and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services took custody of them. David and Heather were present and arrested on suspicion of child abuse and jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

North Platte couple arrested on child abuse accusations

<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/899474920&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/goc-sunday" title="Guardians of the Children Sept 27th" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Guardians of the Children Sept 27th</a></div></div>

Post Podcast: Guardians of the Children holding two events Sept 27th

OMAHA-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Angel Merida Herrera, 29, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison by United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher for being a felon in possession of ammunition. There is no parole in the federal system. Upon his release from prison, he will serve three years of supervised release.

On January 27, 2020, law enforcement was dispatched to a residence in Lexington for an unknown 911 call.&nbsp; Upon arrival, Herrera walked toward officers.&nbsp; One of the officers recognized Herrera and knew from past contact with Herrera that he could possibly be carrying a weapon.&nbsp; After a frisk, law enforcement located a knife in his front jeans pocket.&nbsp; Officers asked for consent to search and Herrera consented.&nbsp; Officers found one 9mm bullet in his pocket.&nbsp; Officers confirmed through his criminal history that he was a felon.&nbsp; They then applied for and received a search warrant for a room at the Super 8 that Herrera rented.&nbsp; Herrera had the room rented from January 17 through January 28, 2020.&nbsp; In the room, law enforcement seized another seven rounds of Luger 9mm ammunition.&nbsp; Herrera is a felon for possession of controlled substance from Dawson County in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This case was brought as part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian" target="_blank">https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian</a>.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Lexington Police Department.&nbsp;&nbsp;

OMAHA-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Angel Merida Herrera, 29, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison by United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher for being a felon in possession of ammunition. There is no parole in the federal system. Upon his release from prison, he will serve three years of supervised release.On January 27, 2020, law enforcement was dispatched to a residence in Lexington for an unknown 911 call.&nbsp; Upon arrival, Herrera walked toward officers.&nbsp; One of the officers recognized Herrera and knew from past contact with Herrera that he could possibly be carrying a weapon.&nbsp; After a frisk, law enforcement located a knife in his front jeans pocket.&nbsp; Officers asked for consent to search and Herrera consented.&nbsp; Officers found one 9mm bullet in his pocket.&nbsp; Officers confirmed through his criminal history that he was a felon.&nbsp; They then applied for and received a search warrant for a room at the Super 8 that Herrera rented.&nbsp; Herrera had the room rented from January 17 through January 28, 2020.&nbsp; In the room, law enforcement seized another seven rounds of Luger 9mm ammunition.&nbsp; Herrera is a felon for possession of controlled substance from Dawson County in 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;This case was brought as part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian" target="_blank">https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian</a>.This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Lexington Police Department.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lexington man gets prison for possession ammunition

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Thursday lauded a new law that will help Nebraska National Guard members save some money when they attend a state university of college.

The law passed earlier this year will increase the amount of undergraduate tuition assistance for Guard members from 75% to 100% of the cost. It also will expand the program to include 50% tuition assistance for graduate programs.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Thursday lauded a new law that will help Nebraska National Guard members save some money when they attend a state university of college.The law passed earlier this year will increase the amount of undergraduate tuition assistance for Guard members from 75% to 100% of the cost. It also will expand the program to include 50% tuition assistance for graduate programs.Ricketts praised the work of the Guard during a ceremonial bill signing at the Capitol. He pointed to the Guard's response to last year's record floods in Nebraska and its help this year in testing residents for the coronavirus.Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, the adjutant general of the Nebraska National Guard, called the law as "a game-changer" that will help recruit and retain new members.

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