<a>Mid-Plains Community College and the North Platte Area Chamber of Commerce and Development Corporation invite business and manufacturing leaders from across MPCC’s 18-county service area to attend the NE Chamber’s Fall Forum.</a>

The forum will be from 8-9:30 a.m. (CT) Oct. 8, via Zoom webinar.

“The NE Chamber fall forums have been a time-honored tradition among state and local chamber members for years. In addition to offering valuable time with state leaders and candidates in an election year, they offer a chance for frank, two-way communication between Chamber members and leadership on issues affecting business,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “We just could not forego the fall forums due to the pandemic, so we reworked them into a model that is arguably even more compelling as we march toward economic recovery.”

Named “Straight Talk with State Leaders,” the forums are designed to inspire community dialogue on economic development and workforce needs unique to each region. They also provide an opportunity for state and local chamber members to engage directly with state legislators and legislative candidates as the 2020 General Election approaches.

Featured speakers this year include NE Chamber President Bryan Slone, Blueprint Nebraska President Jim Smith and MPCC President Ryan Purdy as well as state legislators and 2020 legislative candidates.

“We certainly encourage the business community to listen in as this is always a great opportunity to hear a wrap-up about this year’s unique legislative session and other key statewide planning efforts and issues,” said Gary Person, president of the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation. “We appreciate the community college’s involvement this year,"

There is no cost to attend the forum. Registration can be done online at&nbsp;<a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0c5Ir_O2R-SrKcVAUeA3nQ" target="_blank">https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0c5Ir_O2R-SrKcVAUeA3nQ</a>.

The Nebraska Chamber is the largest, statewide business association and has proudly served as the voice of Nebraska’s business community to state leaders since 1912.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600707231558.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a>Mid-Plains Community College and the North Platte Area Chamber of Commerce and Development Corporation invite business and manufacturing leaders from across MPCC’s 18-county service area to attend the NE Chamber’s Fall Forum.</a>The forum will be from 8-9:30 a.m. (CT) Oct. 8, via Zoom webinar.“The NE Chamber fall forums have been a time-honored tradition among state and local chamber members for years. In addition to offering valuable time with state leaders and candidates in an election year, they offer a chance for frank, two-way communication between Chamber members and leadership on issues affecting business,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “We just could not forego the fall forums due to the pandemic, so we reworked them into a model that is arguably even more compelling as we march toward economic recovery.”Named “Straight Talk with State Leaders,” the forums are designed to inspire community dialogue on economic development and workforce needs unique to each region. They also provide an opportunity for state and local chamber members to engage directly with state legislators and legislative candidates as the 2020 General Election approaches.Featured speakers this year include NE Chamber President Bryan Slone, Blueprint Nebraska President Jim Smith and MPCC President Ryan Purdy as well as state legislators and 2020 legislative candidates.“We certainly encourage the business community to listen in as this is always a great opportunity to hear a wrap-up about this year’s unique legislative session and other key statewide planning efforts and issues,” said Gary Person, president of the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation. “We appreciate the community college’s involvement this year,"There is no cost to attend the forum. Registration can be done online at&nbsp;<a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0c5Ir_O2R-SrKcVAUeA3nQ" target="_blank">https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0c5Ir_O2R-SrKcVAUeA3nQ</a>.The Nebraska Chamber is the largest, statewide business association and has proudly served as the voice of Nebraska’s business community to state leaders since 1912.

MPCC/North Platte Chamber to host Nebraska Chamber fall forum

Individuals interested in pursuing a degree in radiography can now get their start at Mid-Plains Community College.

A new agreement between MPCC and the University of Nebraska Medical Center will allow Mid-Plains students to complete 26 credit hours eligible for transfer to the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions’ radiography program, should the students be accepted.

Dr. Tammy Webster, UNMC’s radiography program director, said the College of Allied Health Professions is excited about the partnership, which will allow future radiographers to get a start on their education while remaining closer to their hometowns.

“This partnership supports our mission to provide exemplar educational opportunities across the state, while helping fill Nebraska’s health care workforce needs,” Webster said.

After students finish their two years at UNMC and earn a radiography degree, they can transfer back some of their UNMC credits to also obtain an associate degree from Mid-Plains.

Prior to the agreement, students interested in pursuing radiography had to go directly to the eastern end of the state for instruction.

“We have been working on this for about a year, and it is exciting to see it come to fruition,” said Dr. Jody Tomanek, area vice president of academic affairs and NPCC. “The idea began as a desire to help Great Plains Health secure more radiographers. In addition to filling a need in the community, this agreement adds to our existing partnerships with GP Health and the Med Center. It’s always my goal to provide opportunities for students, and this is just another opportunity for students in our area to start here then transfer on.”

<a>There were 93 radiography-related jobs in MPCC’s 18-county service area in 2019, the most recent full year for which data is available. That’s higher than the national average, according to labor market analytics firm Emsi. Emsi data shows a total of 1,796 radiography-related jobs statewide in 2019.</a>

Employment of radiographers in both MPCC’s service area and throughout Nebraska is expected to increase at a rate faster than the national average over the next decade. That’s due to an aging population that will need additional medical imaging as well as the anticipated retirement of many existing radiographers.

Emsi indicates the retirement risk in MPCC’s service area and Nebraska is higher than the national average with more than 400 radiography professionals 55 or older in the state.

“We applaud Mid-Plains Community College’s leadership in their efforts to develop health care professionals in our region,” said Fiona Libsack, Great Plains Health chief development officer. “Giving local students the opportunity to grow in medical professions without having to leave the community is the best strategy for ensuring that our region’s hospitals have the professionals they need to serve area patients with quality care.”

Those interested in receiving more information, or in registering for classes, can contact a MPCC advisor at (308) 535-3701 in North Platte or (308) 345-8110 in McCook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600704748004.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Individuals interested in pursuing a degree in radiography can now get their start at Mid-Plains Community College.A new agreement between MPCC and the University of Nebraska Medical Center will allow Mid-Plains students to complete 26 credit hours eligible for transfer to the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions’ radiography program, should the students be accepted.Dr. Tammy Webster, UNMC’s radiography program director, said the College of Allied Health Professions is excited about the partnership, which will allow future radiographers to get a start on their education while remaining closer to their hometowns.“This partnership supports our mission to provide exemplar educational opportunities across the state, while helping fill Nebraska’s health care workforce needs,” Webster said.After students finish their two years at UNMC and earn a radiography degree, they can transfer back some of their UNMC credits to also obtain an associate degree from Mid-Plains.Prior to the agreement, students interested in pursuing radiography had to go directly to the eastern end of the state for instruction.“We have been working on this for about a year, and it is exciting to see it come to fruition,” said Dr. Jody Tomanek, area vice president of academic affairs and NPCC. “The idea began as a desire to help Great Plains Health secure more radiographers. In addition to filling a need in the community, this agreement adds to our existing partnerships with GP Health and the Med Center. It’s always my goal to provide opportunities for students, and this is just another opportunity for students in our area to start here then transfer on.”<a>There were 93 radiography-related jobs in MPCC’s 18-county service area in 2019, the most recent full year for which data is available. That’s higher than the national average, according to labor market analytics firm Emsi. Emsi data shows a total of 1,796 radiography-related jobs statewide in 2019.</a>Employment of radiographers in both MPCC’s service area and throughout Nebraska is expected to increase at a rate faster than the national average over the next decade. That’s due to an aging population that will need additional medical imaging as well as the anticipated retirement of many existing radiographers.Emsi indicates the retirement risk in MPCC’s service area and Nebraska is higher than the national average with more than 400 radiography professionals 55 or older in the state.“We applaud Mid-Plains Community College’s leadership in their efforts to develop health care professionals in our region,” said Fiona Libsack, Great Plains Health chief development officer. “Giving local students the opportunity to grow in medical professions without having to leave the community is the best strategy for ensuring that our region’s hospitals have the professionals they need to serve area patients with quality care.”Those interested in receiving more information, or in registering for classes, can contact a MPCC advisor at (308) 535-3701 in North Platte or (308) 345-8110 in McCook.

MPCC offers start on radiography degree

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More than 40% of the deaths linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska have been at nursing homes, but the overall rate of deaths in the state's nursing homes has remained relatively low compared with national figures.

A total of 185 deaths linked to the virus have been confirmed at nursing homes in the state, which is reporting 442 deaths overall. The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/nearly-half-of-nebraskas-covid-19-deaths-come-from-nursing-homes-tracking-the-deadliest-outbreaks/article_66485953-5c85-5cda-bcc5-cad039527931.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;Sunday that a federal database shows that 31 of the more than 200 nursing homes in the state have reported deaths linked to the coronavirus.

Most of the deadly outbreaks in nursing homes had not been previously disclosed because state officials have refused to name the facilities to protect residents' privacy,

"When you are concerned about your loved one in a facility, knowing what is happening is essential," said Todd Stubbendieck, state director for AARP Nebraska. "This transparency is important to people."

Nationally, nursing home residents account for less than 1% of the U.S. population but more than 40% of the coronavirus deaths. The rate of deaths in Nebraska nursing homes has remained relatively low overall. Nebraska reported 18 deaths for every 1,000 nursing home residents, which is well below the national rate of 47.8 deaths per 1,000 residents.

"We know every death is a tragedy," said Dr. Gary Anthone, Nebraska's chief medical officer. "But one of the reasons I think we have done so well on our mortality rate is our success in managing long-term care outbreaks."

The federal data revealed that nine nursing homes in the state had 10 or more residents die with coronavirus, accounting for 116 of the 185 nursing home deaths in Nebraska. Most of those large outbreaks were at homes in communities with large numbers of virus cases.

"The thing that we've learned is just how susceptible skilled nursing and assisted living facilities are to the community around them," said Heath Boddy, CEO of the Nebraska Health Care Association.

Those large outbreaks included 20 deaths at Emerald Nursing and Rehabilitation Lakeview in Grand Island, the 16 deaths at St. Joseph Villa in Omaha, 14 at the Life Care Center of Elkhorn, 13 at Westfield Quality Care of Aurora, 12 at the Life Care Center of Omaha, 11 at Good Samaritan Society-Millard and 10 each at Omaha's Florence Home, Golden Ours in Grant and Plainview Manor in northeast Nebraska's Pierce County.

State health officials said 410 new cases of the virus were reported Saturday in Nebraska to give the state a total of 40,797 since the pandemic began.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 317.86 new cases per day on Sept. 5 to 363.71 new cases per day on Saturday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More than 40% of the deaths linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska have been at nursing homes, but the overall rate of deaths in the state's nursing homes has remained relatively low compared with national figures.A total of 185 deaths linked to the virus have been confirmed at nursing homes in the state, which is reporting 442 deaths overall. The Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/nearly-half-of-nebraskas-covid-19-deaths-come-from-nursing-homes-tracking-the-deadliest-outbreaks/article_66485953-5c85-5cda-bcc5-cad039527931.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;Sunday that a federal database shows that 31 of the more than 200 nursing homes in the state have reported deaths linked to the coronavirus.Most of the deadly outbreaks in nursing homes had not been previously disclosed because state officials have refused to name the facilities to protect residents' privacy,"When you are concerned about your loved one in a facility, knowing what is happening is essential," said Todd Stubbendieck, state director for AARP Nebraska. "This transparency is important to people."Nationally, nursing home residents account for less than 1% of the U.S. population but more than 40% of the coronavirus deaths. The rate of deaths in Nebraska nursing homes has remained relatively low overall. Nebraska reported 18 deaths for every 1,000 nursing home residents, which is well below the national rate of 47.8 deaths per 1,000 residents."We know every death is a tragedy," said Dr. Gary Anthone, Nebraska's chief medical officer. "But one of the reasons I think we have done so well on our mortality rate is our success in managing long-term care outbreaks."The federal data revealed that nine nursing homes in the state had 10 or more residents die with coronavirus, accounting for 116 of the 185 nursing home deaths in Nebraska. Most of those large outbreaks were at homes in communities with large numbers of virus cases."The thing that we've learned is just how susceptible skilled nursing and assisted living facilities are to the community around them," said Heath Boddy, CEO of the Nebraska Health Care Association.Those large outbreaks included 20 deaths at Emerald Nursing and Rehabilitation Lakeview in Grand Island, the 16 deaths at St. Joseph Villa in Omaha, 14 at the Life Care Center of Elkhorn, 13 at Westfield Quality Care of Aurora, 12 at the Life Care Center of Omaha, 11 at Good Samaritan Society-Millard and 10 each at Omaha's Florence Home, Golden Ours in Grant and Plainview Manor in northeast Nebraska's Pierce County.State health officials said 410 new cases of the virus were reported Saturday in Nebraska to give the state a total of 40,797 since the pandemic began.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 317.86 new cases per day on Sept. 5 to 363.71 new cases per day on Saturday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

More than 40% of Nebraska virus deaths are at nursing homes

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Six more state corrections employees have tested positive for the coronavirus as the number of cases in the state prison system continues to grow.

Three employees at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln and three employees at the state Diagnostic and Evaluation Center tested positive for COVID-19, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release Saturday.

With the new cases, a total of 127 state prisons workers have now tested positive for the virus with 42 of those cases coming in the past week. Sixty-four of those individuals have recovered.

The agency said on its website that 196 inmates had tested positive for the coronavirus as of Friday and one inmate had died. The state said 9.9% of the 1,979 inmates that have been tested were positive for the virus.

Health officials said 410 new cases of the virus were reported Saturday to give the state a total of 40,797 since the pandemic began. There have also been 442 deaths.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Six more state corrections employees have tested positive for the coronavirus as the number of cases in the state prison system continues to grow.Three employees at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln and three employees at the state Diagnostic and Evaluation Center tested positive for COVID-19, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release Saturday.With the new cases, a total of 127 state prisons workers have now tested positive for the virus with 42 of those cases coming in the past week. Sixty-four of those individuals have recovered.The agency said on its website that 196 inmates had tested positive for the coronavirus as of Friday and one inmate had died. The state said 9.9% of the 1,979 inmates that have been tested were positive for the virus.Health officials said 410 new cases of the virus were reported Saturday to give the state a total of 40,797 since the pandemic began. There have also been 442 deaths.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 317.86 new cases per day on Sept. 5 to 363.71 new cases per day on Saturday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

Nebraska prisons say 6 more workers test positive for virus

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on September
21, 2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room
at 9:00 A.M.

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on September
21, 2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room
at 9:15 A.M.

2.	Approve
minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting

Recess
as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the
Lincoln County Board of Equalization.

4.	9:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:

Adjourn
or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization
and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.

5.	9:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider adoption of resolutions to enter into
interlocal 


	agreements
with the City of North Platte to provide the following services: 
Dispatch,

	Road
Maintenance on County Roads, Road Maintenance on City Roads and
	Emergency Management Services										

6.	9:40
A.M.	Discuss and consider directing the Lincoln County Attorney’s
Office 	to draft a new Resolution, replacing Resolution No. 2008-27,
in regards to depositories 	securing County deposits that are in
excess of the amounts as specified in Neb. Rev. 	Stat. § 77-2318 by
giving security as provided in the Public Funds Deposit Security Act.

7.	9:50
A.M.	Discussion regarding the Robert F. Hanich Charitable Trust and
the 	County being one of the possible beneficiaries to the Trust.

8.	10:00
A.M.	Discuss and consider Sargent Irrigation and Drilling bid for
test wells		concerning the Lincoln County Courthouse HVAC system

Hear
concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, and their
representative

Conduct
quarterly jail inspection of the Lincoln County Detention Center.

NOTICE
OF HEARING AND AGENDAMonday,
September 21, 2020Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on September
21, 2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room
at 9:00 A.M.Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on September
21, 2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room
at 9:15 A.M.1.	Open
with prayer2.	Approve
minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting	held
September 14, 20203.	Consider
the following:<ol>
 <li>Claims
	&amp; Treasurer’s Receipts
	</li><li>Renewal
	contract with Pritchard &amp; Abbott, Inc., for professional
	appraisal services on mineral property and authorize the Chairman to
	sign
	</li><li>Adoption
	of a Resolution to enter into an interlocal agreement with the
	Village of Hershey to provide law enforcement services and authorize
	the Chairman to sign
	</li><li>Receive
	and order filed the fee report submitted by the County Sheriff
</li>
 </ol>Recess
as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the
Lincoln County Board of Equalization.4.	9:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:<ol>
 <li>Approve
	minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Equalization meeting
</li>
 </ol>held
on September 14, 2020<ol>
 <li>Certificates
	of correction and refund as submitted by the County Assessor	
	</li><li>Notice
	of valuation changes as submitted by the County Assessor
</li>
 </ol>Adjourn
or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization
and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.5.	9:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider adoption of resolutions to enter into
interlocal 
	agreements
with the City of North Platte to provide the following services: 
Dispatch,	Road
Maintenance on County Roads, Road Maintenance on City Roads and
	Emergency Management Services										6.	9:40
A.M.	Discuss and consider directing the Lincoln County Attorney’s
Office 	to draft a new Resolution, replacing Resolution No. 2008-27,
in regards to depositories 	securing County deposits that are in
excess of the amounts as specified in Neb. Rev. 	Stat. § 77-2318 by
giving security as provided in the Public Funds Deposit Security Act.7.	9:50
A.M.	Discussion regarding the Robert F. Hanich Charitable Trust and
the 	County being one of the possible beneficiaries to the Trust.8.	10:00
A.M.	Discuss and consider Sargent Irrigation and Drilling bid for
test wells		concerning the Lincoln County Courthouse HVAC systemHear
concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, and their
representativeConduct
quarterly jail inspection of the Lincoln County Detention Center.								Rebecca
J. Rossell								Lincoln
County Clerk

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners Agenda (September 21, 2020)

By RALPH D. RUSSO-AP College Football Writer

For the second straight weekend, the Big Ten made news without playing.

Last week, the conference was in the process of putting together a restart plan for football.

On Saturday, the Big Ten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d0f96071da2f720b5147f0b9ba8d5ee9" target="_blank">released its schedule 3.0</a>, doing it a little bit at a time on Fox's Big Noon Kickoff pregame show. The Big Ten also took up much of the conversation on ESPN's "College GameDay," which had interviews with Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields and Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren.

Nice flex and a heady play as the Big Ten is about to drop off the radar until its season starts the weekend of Oct. 24.

The Southeastern Conference kicks off next week and the ACC and Big 12 get cranked up, too.

Most notable on the Big Ten's schedule was how Nebraska will start the season: at Ohio State and home for Wisconsin. Oof!

No Big Ten school made as much of a public fuss over the conference's initial decision to postpone the season as Nebraska. The brutal opening schedule against the conference's two division winners from last season might have been a coincidence, but it did not go unnoticed.

The Huskers also play Penn State in the fourth game of the season, giving Nebraska easily the toughest cross-division games of any team in the West Division.

Nebraska had both Ohio State and Penn State on its original nine-game, pre-pandemic conference schedule, along with Rutgers. The Big Ten used those schedules to set these schedules, dropping one of the three crossover games for each team.

Athletic director Bill Moos&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/sports/huskers/football/bill-moos-lost-every-argument-on-the-big-ten-scheduling-front-nebraskas-a-d-isnt/article_c4415dcb-3a7d-5991-9523-3b6ea61caabc.html" target="_blank">told the Omaha-World Herald</a>&nbsp;that he pushed to rework schedules more thoroughly to provide competitive balance. He also suggested having only division games count toward the division race.

"For obvious reasons, I was hoping we could dissemble the schedule because of unique circumstances and rebuild it to be fair for each school in the conference," Moos told the newspaper Saturday. "I was outspoken on that, to the point where they heard it from me every day. The rationale was there, I didn't think we needed to follow it. Nebraska is playing five AP preseason Top 25 teams. Ohio State's playing two."

Nebraska has lost five straight against Ohio State, which has became a yearly rivalry since the Big Ten went to an East-West division structure. The Big Ten was hoping to create an annual showdown between two tradition-rich programs, but Nebraska has not held up its end of the deal. Average score: Buckeyes 53, Cornhuskers 19.

Ohio State definitely caught a break with the new schedule. The crossover game that came off its slate was Iowa, leaving the Buckeyes with Nebraska and Illinois.

Meanwhile, Buckeyes' rival Michigan lost Purdue but kept Wisconsin and Minnesota as its West games.

It might not have been the plan to cut Ohio State, the league's clear favorite and defending champ, some slack. But it's not a terrible idea.

When the SEC redid its schedule to make it 10 conference games, the league ended up feeding its weaker teams to its powerhouses. Missouri got added to LSU and Alabama's schedules. Arkansas added games against Florida and Georgia.

Regardless of whether it was intentional, conferences do not gain anything come College Football Playoff selection time by making life tougher on their best teams.

The Pac-12 has learned that the hard way over the playoff era.

UCF has another Heisman Trophy contender quarterback from Hawaii.

Dillon Gabriel, who ended up winning the job during last season as a freshman, appears even better this year. Gabriel went to the same high school as teammate McKenzie Milton, who finished in the Heisman top 10 in 2017 and '18.

Few quarterbacks are as fearless throwing deep as Gabriel.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ea77fb9181cbac049b4000f1f8b0d85b" target="_blank">Against Georgia Tech,&nbsp;</a>he passed for 417 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 10 yards an attempt and 15 yards a completion. It was a convincing victory against a Power Five team, if only a rebuilding P5 squad.

Milton is still hoping to play again after a gruesome leg injury two seasons ago. Just getting on the field would be a miraculous comeback. But make no mistake, Gabriel is the man at UCF and the Knights have a team that could again make a case for something more than just an American Athletic Conference championship trophy.

"You saw what happened last week," Gabriel said, referring to Georgia Tech's victory at Florida State. "I guess you can say we're the best team in Florida."

AROUND THE COUNTRY: Last note on the Big Ten. Now that the conference has a schedule in place, its teams will become eligible for inclusion in the AP Top 25 starting with the poll released on Sunday, Sept. 27. Voters don't have to include Big Ten teams before they play, but they can. ... The Pac-12 is likely to jump back into fall football season later this week. The conference's university presidents meet Thursday. When to start is the hang up. Some Pac-12 teams are way behind in preparation, but not all. A Halloween start gives room to get seven games in before a Dec. 19 championship that puts the Pac-12 in play for College Football Playoff and New Year's Six bowl selection. But is a six-week ramp up enough when the Northern California schools are still working to get local COVID-19 restrictions lifted? ... Navy, which started the season being outscored 79-3, scored the last 27 points of the game to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bf101b096d66a6a9ceb48f02ecd6c288" target="_blank">beat Tulane</a>&nbsp;on a last-second field goal. The Trident Trophy Game (Green Wave vs. Midshipmen) has produced some wild results in recent years. The AAC rivals have split the last four games by a combined total of nine points. ... Top-notch debut by Boston College's new coach (Jeff Hafley) and new quarterback (Phil Jurkovec). The Eagles&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e433bac878b5fa054b4825f2e4d32211" target="_blank">rolled over Duke</a>. ... Louisiana-Lafayette's encore after upsetting Iowa State was dramatic. The Ragin' Cajuns came from two touchdowns down and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cbcf60141685137c51c0de5663bb245e" target="_blank">beat Georgia State in overtime</a>. ... After going 0-3 against the Sun Belt last week, No. 11 Oklahoma State had the Big 12 sweating again. The Cowboys managed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/44f3dcca6e8a8809da5d325b9690364d" target="_blank">hold off Tulsa</a>&nbsp;in a mess of a game. The Golden Hurricane committed 15 penalties and did not convert a third down, yet hung around as Oklahoma State played most of the game without quarterback Spencer Sanders (ankle).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563213481558.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RALPH D. RUSSO-AP College Football WriterFor the second straight weekend, the Big Ten made news without playing.Last week, the conference was in the process of putting together a restart plan for football.On Saturday, the Big Ten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d0f96071da2f720b5147f0b9ba8d5ee9" target="_blank">released its schedule 3.0</a>, doing it a little bit at a time on Fox's Big Noon Kickoff pregame show. The Big Ten also took up much of the conversation on ESPN's "College GameDay," which had interviews with Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields and Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren.Nice flex and a heady play as the Big Ten is about to drop off the radar until its season starts the weekend of Oct. 24.The Southeastern Conference kicks off next week and the ACC and Big 12 get cranked up, too.Most notable on the Big Ten's schedule was how Nebraska will start the season: at Ohio State and home for Wisconsin. Oof!No Big Ten school made as much of a public fuss over the conference's initial decision to postpone the season as Nebraska. The brutal opening schedule against the conference's two division winners from last season might have been a coincidence, but it did not go unnoticed.The Huskers also play Penn State in the fourth game of the season, giving Nebraska easily the toughest cross-division games of any team in the West Division.Nebraska had both Ohio State and Penn State on its original nine-game, pre-pandemic conference schedule, along with Rutgers. The Big Ten used those schedules to set these schedules, dropping one of the three crossover games for each team.Athletic director Bill Moos&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/sports/huskers/football/bill-moos-lost-every-argument-on-the-big-ten-scheduling-front-nebraskas-a-d-isnt/article_c4415dcb-3a7d-5991-9523-3b6ea61caabc.html" target="_blank">told the Omaha-World Herald</a>&nbsp;that he pushed to rework schedules more thoroughly to provide competitive balance. He also suggested having only division games count toward the division race.He said he lost every argument."For obvious reasons, I was hoping we could dissemble the schedule because of unique circumstances and rebuild it to be fair for each school in the conference," Moos told the newspaper Saturday. "I was outspoken on that, to the point where they heard it from me every day. The rationale was there, I didn't think we needed to follow it. Nebraska is playing five AP preseason Top 25 teams. Ohio State's playing two."Nebraska has lost five straight against Ohio State, which has became a yearly rivalry since the Big Ten went to an East-West division structure. The Big Ten was hoping to create an annual showdown between two tradition-rich programs, but Nebraska has not held up its end of the deal. Average score: Buckeyes 53, Cornhuskers 19.Ohio State definitely caught a break with the new schedule. The crossover game that came off its slate was Iowa, leaving the Buckeyes with Nebraska and Illinois.Meanwhile, Buckeyes' rival Michigan lost Purdue but kept Wisconsin and Minnesota as its West games.It might not have been the plan to cut Ohio State, the league's clear favorite and defending champ, some slack. But it's not a terrible idea.When the SEC redid its schedule to make it 10 conference games, the league ended up feeding its weaker teams to its powerhouses. Missouri got added to LSU and Alabama's schedules. Arkansas added games against Florida and Georgia.Regardless of whether it was intentional, conferences do not gain anything come College Football Playoff selection time by making life tougher on their best teams.The Pac-12 has learned that the hard way over the playoff era.ALOHAUCF has another Heisman Trophy contender quarterback from Hawaii.Dillon Gabriel, who ended up winning the job during last season as a freshman, appears even better this year. Gabriel went to the same high school as teammate McKenzie Milton, who finished in the Heisman top 10 in 2017 and '18.Few quarterbacks are as fearless throwing deep as Gabriel.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ea77fb9181cbac049b4000f1f8b0d85b" target="_blank">Against Georgia Tech,&nbsp;</a>he passed for 417 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 10 yards an attempt and 15 yards a completion. It was a convincing victory against a Power Five team, if only a rebuilding P5 squad.Milton is still hoping to play again after a gruesome leg injury two seasons ago. Just getting on the field would be a miraculous comeback. But make no mistake, Gabriel is the man at UCF and the Knights have a team that could again make a case for something more than just an American Athletic Conference championship trophy."You saw what happened last week," Gabriel said, referring to Georgia Tech's victory at Florida State. "I guess you can say we're the best team in Florida."__AROUND THE COUNTRY: Last note on the Big Ten. Now that the conference has a schedule in place, its teams will become eligible for inclusion in the AP Top 25 starting with the poll released on Sunday, Sept. 27. Voters don't have to include Big Ten teams before they play, but they can. ... The Pac-12 is likely to jump back into fall football season later this week. The conference's university presidents meet Thursday. When to start is the hang up. Some Pac-12 teams are way behind in preparation, but not all. A Halloween start gives room to get seven games in before a Dec. 19 championship that puts the Pac-12 in play for College Football Playoff and New Year's Six bowl selection. But is a six-week ramp up enough when the Northern California schools are still working to get local COVID-19 restrictions lifted? ... Navy, which started the season being outscored 79-3, scored the last 27 points of the game to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bf101b096d66a6a9ceb48f02ecd6c288" target="_blank">beat Tulane</a>&nbsp;on a last-second field goal. The Trident Trophy Game (Green Wave vs. Midshipmen) has produced some wild results in recent years. The AAC rivals have split the last four games by a combined total of nine points. ... Top-notch debut by Boston College's new coach (Jeff Hafley) and new quarterback (Phil Jurkovec). The Eagles&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e433bac878b5fa054b4825f2e4d32211" target="_blank">rolled over Duke</a>. ... Louisiana-Lafayette's encore after upsetting Iowa State was dramatic. The Ragin' Cajuns came from two touchdowns down and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cbcf60141685137c51c0de5663bb245e" target="_blank">beat Georgia State in overtime</a>. ... After going 0-3 against the Sun Belt last week, No. 11 Oklahoma State had the Big 12 sweating again. The Cowboys managed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/44f3dcca6e8a8809da5d325b9690364d" target="_blank">hold off Tulsa</a>&nbsp;in a mess of a game. The Golden Hurricane committed 15 penalties and did not convert a third down, yet hung around as Oklahoma State played most of the game without quarterback Spencer Sanders (ankle).

AP Top 25 Takeaways: Huskers get tough draw; UCF rising star

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported eight new confirmed cased of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Saturday.

Officials say all new cases are considered "under investigation."

WCDHD says seven of the cases are from September 18 and one case is from September 19.

<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR1g7KbyDND_po-cbtPB0qIWgxayihbgjxiq-LR80XgV1x66UlVBmHiGrko#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported eight new confirmed cased of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Saturday.Officials say all new cases are considered "under investigation."WCDHD says seven of the cases are from September 18 and one case is from September 19.<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR1g7KbyDND_po-cbtPB0qIWgxayihbgjxiq-LR80XgV1x66UlVBmHiGrko#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600567111724.png" alt="covid update september 19 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update september 19 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

WCDHD reports 8 new confirmed COVID cases on Saturday

LYONS, Neb. -- Nebraska will be defending its regional title in this year's Crunch Off competition, where schools across the nation devour locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables.

Justin Carter, project associate with the Center for Rural Affairs, is encouraging all school districts, and even families if kids are learning remotely, to sign up and start planting. On October 22, kids will take bites of their favorite produce, and the state with the most "crunches" per capita wins.

"We encourage crunchy foods," Carter said. "The most common food used in Nebraska is apples, definitely, because we have quite a few local apples. But it could be carrots, celery, some other type of vegetable that's crunchy too."

Carter noted many Nebraska schools will plant and harvest their own food for crunching in school greenhouses. Kids who can't join their classmates can grow food at home using simple hydroponic grow tanks.

Carter said the competition is a good fit for the center's Greenhouse to Cafeteria program, which helps schools revamp greenhouses for food production. He said in addition to learning key agricultural skills, kids are delivering food to school cafeterias with much higher nutrient content than the stuff shipped in across oceans.

"There's a huge educational piece around educating kids on where food comes from," he said. "So often, children see food as something that just arrives in a package. But helping youths realize that food is something that's grown, that's something they can produce on their own."

Ten Nebraska schools have been selected for the Greenhouse to Cafeteria program and will receive direct technical and financial support. The center also has created a statewide peer network where teachers can share their students' green-thumb secrets.

"There's a lot of great ideas around the state. There's a lot of great greenhouse programs that are already out there," Carter said. "But I think, especially in rural areas, it can be a little easy to get isolated."

To register for the Cruch Off visit the Nebraska Department of Education's website at education.ne.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600540357019.png" alt="Ten Nebraska schools have been selected by the Center for Rural Affairs for their Greenhouse to Cafeteria program and will receive direct technical and financial support. (Sipa/Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>Ten Nebraska schools have been selected by the Center for Rural Affairs for their Greenhouse to Cafeteria program and will receive direct technical and financial support. (Sipa/Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska News ServiceBy Eric GalatasLYONS, Neb. -- Nebraska will be defending its regional title in this year's Crunch Off competition, where schools across the nation devour locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables.Justin Carter, project associate with the Center for Rural Affairs, is encouraging all school districts, and even families if kids are learning remotely, to sign up and start planting. On October 22, kids will take bites of their favorite produce, and the state with the most "crunches" per capita wins."We encourage crunchy foods," Carter said. "The most common food used in Nebraska is apples, definitely, because we have quite a few local apples. But it could be carrots, celery, some other type of vegetable that's crunchy too."Carter noted many Nebraska schools will plant and harvest their own food for crunching in school greenhouses. Kids who can't join their classmates can grow food at home using simple hydroponic grow tanks.Carter said the competition is a good fit for the center's Greenhouse to Cafeteria program, which helps schools revamp greenhouses for food production. He said in addition to learning key agricultural skills, kids are delivering food to school cafeterias with much higher nutrient content than the stuff shipped in across oceans."There's a huge educational piece around educating kids on where food comes from," he said. "So often, children see food as something that just arrives in a package. But helping youths realize that food is something that's grown, that's something they can produce on their own."Ten Nebraska schools have been selected for the Greenhouse to Cafeteria program and will receive direct technical and financial support. The center also has created a statewide peer network where teachers can share their students' green-thumb secrets."There's a lot of great ideas around the state. There's a lot of great greenhouse programs that are already out there," Carter said. "But I think, especially in rural areas, it can be a little easy to get isolated."To register for the Cruch Off visit the Nebraska Department of Education's website at education.ne.gov.

Contest aims to get more local produce into Nebraska school cafeterias

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A Nebraska inmate who tested positive for the coronavirus has died as state prison officials battle a surge in cases.

State Corrections Director Scott Frakes didn't identify the inmate but said he was in his 50s and had several underlying health conditions. He died Friday at a Lincoln hospital, where he had tested positive for COVID-19 after being initially admitted two weeks ago, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska-state-prison-inmate-dies-in-lincoln-hospital-he-had-tested-positive-for-covid/article_c749350c-2970-5f9b-9707-089676b96b77.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_OWHnews" target="_blank">reports.</a>

The inmate was serving sentences for burglary, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of a controlled substance. The crimes committed in Saunders and Lancaster Counties. The department did not reveal where the inmate had been housed.

A surge in coronavirus cases has forced two state prisons in recent days to go under quarantine. On Thursday, the department announced that eight additional prison staffers had tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases among staff members to 112.

A week ago, the department reported 82 new cases among inmates at the Nebraska State Penitentiary. Thirty new cases were reported at the Diagnostic &amp; Evaluation Center in Lincoln.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A Nebraska inmate who tested positive for the coronavirus has died as state prison officials battle a surge in cases.State Corrections Director Scott Frakes didn't identify the inmate but said he was in his 50s and had several underlying health conditions. He died Friday at a Lincoln hospital, where he had tested positive for COVID-19 after being initially admitted two weeks ago, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska-state-prison-inmate-dies-in-lincoln-hospital-he-had-tested-positive-for-covid/article_c749350c-2970-5f9b-9707-089676b96b77.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_OWHnews" target="_blank">reports.</a>The inmate was serving sentences for burglary, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of a controlled substance. The crimes committed in Saunders and Lancaster Counties. The department did not reveal where the inmate had been housed.A surge in coronavirus cases has forced two state prisons in recent days to go under quarantine. On Thursday, the department announced that eight additional prison staffers had tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases among staff members to 112.A week ago, the department reported 82 new cases among inmates at the Nebraska State Penitentiary. Thirty new cases were reported at the Diagnostic &amp; Evaluation Center in Lincoln.

Nebraska inmate dies after testing positive for COVID-19

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with a proclamation from President Donald J. Trump, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff in honor of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who passed away yesterday.

“Susanne and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Ginsburg family,” said Governor Ricketts. &nbsp;“We honor Justice Ginsburg for her decades of public service and tireless devotion to her vocation.”

Flags will be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of Ginsburg’s interment. &nbsp;The President’s proclamation can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-death-ruth-bader-ginsburg%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C0e55ea2c528f4204a70e08d85ca1219a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637361194437935573&amp;sdata=4QXyUfNwM%2Bu%2FxBoWHwS5XREejezCszDgf62tg%2FUm4VE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with a proclamation from President Donald J. Trump, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff in honor of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who passed away yesterday.“Susanne and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Ginsburg family,” said Governor Ricketts. &nbsp;“We honor Justice Ginsburg for her decades of public service and tireless devotion to her vocation.”Flags will be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of Ginsburg’s interment. &nbsp;The President’s proclamation can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-death-ruth-bader-ginsburg%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C0e55ea2c528f4204a70e08d85ca1219a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637361194437935573&amp;sdata=4QXyUfNwM%2Bu%2FxBoWHwS5XREejezCszDgf62tg%2FUm4VE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Flags in Nebraska, US to fly at half-staff in honor of RBG

As part of National Farm Safety and Health Week, farmers and ranchers are invited to participate in a free webinar on tractor and equipment safety on Sept. 21 at noon central time.

“Planting the Seeds of Tractor and Machinery Safety” will cover hazards associated with agricultural tractors and machinery and how to prevent injuries. Attendees also will be provided with teaching and training resources.

The webinar will be presented by Aaron Yoder, PhD, of the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health.

Traditionally, tractors and machinery have been a leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries on and around farms and ranches. In 2019 there were six fatalities in Nebraska related to tractor and equipment operation.

To register for “Planting the Seeds of Tractor and Machinery Safety” go to: <a href="https://www.agrisafe.org/">agrisafe.org</a>. The webinar is listed on the right side of the page.

For a list of other free webinars offered during National Farm Safety and Health Week visit <a href="https://www.agrisafe.org/">agrisafe.org</a>.

As part of National Farm Safety and Health Week, farmers and ranchers are invited to participate in a free webinar on tractor and equipment safety on Sept. 21 at noon central time.“Planting the Seeds of Tractor and Machinery Safety” will cover hazards associated with agricultural tractors and machinery and how to prevent injuries. Attendees also will be provided with teaching and training resources.The webinar will be presented by Aaron Yoder, PhD, of the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health.Traditionally, tractors and machinery have been a leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries on and around farms and ranches. In 2019 there were six fatalities in Nebraska related to tractor and equipment operation.To register for “Planting the Seeds of Tractor and Machinery Safety” go to: <a href="https://www.agrisafe.org/">agrisafe.org</a>. The webinar is listed on the right side of the page.For a list of other free webinars offered during National Farm Safety and Health Week visit <a href="https://www.agrisafe.org/">agrisafe.org</a>.

Farm Safety and Health Week offers free webinar Sept. 21 on tractor and machinery safety

Mid-Plains Community College business instructor Cathy Nutt has been recognized by the Nebraska State Business Education Association.

She received this year’s Teacher of the Year Award for Outstanding Contributions to Business Education by a Postsecondary Teacher.

Nutt has been a full-time faculty member at NPCC for 13 years. She teaches a variety of classes from Introduction to Business, Personal Finance, Microeconomics and Macroeconomics to Business and Professional Speaking, Advertising, Food Marketing and Introduction to Agriculture Economics and Agribusiness.

She works diligently to provide an engaging learning experience that is applicable to today’s business world.

“Cathy is a true professional,” said Angie Chittick, also a business instructor for MPCC. “She is an organized, efficient, passionate and motivating instructor who has proven to be a leader in the classroom as well as within the college and business education in general.”

Among her many responsibilities, Nutt is responsible for managing internships for the business students and serves as the Center for Teaching Excellence coordinator for the college. In that role, she works with faculty across all MPCC campuses to develop engaging teaching strategies and effective online courses. Additionally, Nutt helps new instructors navigate the Learning Management System and has developed LMS workshops.

Nutt was one of MPCC’s first instructors to use Zoom meetings to reach the college’s community campuses. The platform is also how she interacts with online students one-on-one.

“Cathy’s work with students over the years has been and continues to be outstanding,” said Jean Condon, chair of MPCC’s Business and Technology division. “Cathy is committed to bringing the best teaching and innovative learning practices into the classroom. She is also known for her dedication, patience and willingness to work with students outside of the classroom. She is committed to helping each student improve his or her knowledge and skills and has the unique ability to motivate students to set high goals and achieve them.”

Carolyn Petersen, MPCC alumnae, echoed Condon’s sentiments. She was a student in several of Nutt’s classes and experienced Nutt’s passion for teaching first-hand.

“I can say with certainty that not only is Mrs. Nutt very knowledgeable in the subjects she teaches, but she is also very engaged with her students,” Petersen said. “She embellishes concepts with personal anecdotes and experiences that bring learning to life. I was blessed in having Mrs. Nutt as one of my first instructors. I truly owe the completion of my college degree to her.”

Nutt was instrumental in developing the Agribusiness option currently offered by MPCC.&nbsp; She created an advisory committee, put together the curriculum and continues to advise ag students.

Membership-wise, Nutt is involved in the Nebraska State Business Education Association, currently as the president; Mountain Plains Business Education Association; National Business Education Association; Nebraska Education Technology Association; Mid-Plains Community College Education Association and Nebraska State Education Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600521998746.png" alt="Cathy Nutt" />
 <figcaption>Cathy Nutt</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCMid-Plains Community College business instructor Cathy Nutt has been recognized by the Nebraska State Business Education Association.She received this year’s Teacher of the Year Award for Outstanding Contributions to Business Education by a Postsecondary Teacher.Nutt has been a full-time faculty member at NPCC for 13 years. She teaches a variety of classes from Introduction to Business, Personal Finance, Microeconomics and Macroeconomics to Business and Professional Speaking, Advertising, Food Marketing and Introduction to Agriculture Economics and Agribusiness.She works diligently to provide an engaging learning experience that is applicable to today’s business world.“Cathy is a true professional,” said Angie Chittick, also a business instructor for MPCC. “She is an organized, efficient, passionate and motivating instructor who has proven to be a leader in the classroom as well as within the college and business education in general.”Among her many responsibilities, Nutt is responsible for managing internships for the business students and serves as the Center for Teaching Excellence coordinator for the college. In that role, she works with faculty across all MPCC campuses to develop engaging teaching strategies and effective online courses. Additionally, Nutt helps new instructors navigate the Learning Management System and has developed LMS workshops.Nutt was one of MPCC’s first instructors to use Zoom meetings to reach the college’s community campuses. The platform is also how she interacts with online students one-on-one.“Cathy’s work with students over the years has been and continues to be outstanding,” said Jean Condon, chair of MPCC’s Business and Technology division. “Cathy is committed to bringing the best teaching and innovative learning practices into the classroom. She is also known for her dedication, patience and willingness to work with students outside of the classroom. She is committed to helping each student improve his or her knowledge and skills and has the unique ability to motivate students to set high goals and achieve them.”Carolyn Petersen, MPCC alumnae, echoed Condon’s sentiments. She was a student in several of Nutt’s classes and experienced Nutt’s passion for teaching first-hand.“I can say with certainty that not only is Mrs. Nutt very knowledgeable in the subjects she teaches, but she is also very engaged with her students,” Petersen said. “She embellishes concepts with personal anecdotes and experiences that bring learning to life. I was blessed in having Mrs. Nutt as one of my first instructors. I truly owe the completion of my college degree to her.”Nutt was instrumental in developing the Agribusiness option currently offered by MPCC.&nbsp; She created an advisory committee, put together the curriculum and continues to advise ag students.Membership-wise, Nutt is involved in the Nebraska State Business Education Association, currently as the president; Mountain Plains Business Education Association; National Business Education Association; Nebraska Education Technology Association; Mid-Plains Community College Education Association and Nebraska State Education Association.

NPCC instructor recognized by state business association

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Recent rain has helped ease drought conditions in Nebraska, but not by much.

Some areas of northeast Nebraska saw more than 2 inches of rain last week, and other areas got more than an inch.&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/weather/rain-last-week-helps-ease-drought-in-nebraska-slightly/article_211c1ba3-2d2b-5974-be69-d9369eb7d939.html" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>, citing the state Drought Monitor released Thursday by the University of Nebraska, noted that drought conditions are only slightly improved.

More than half the state remains in some level of drought this week, although the percentage dropped from almost 56% last week to about 53.4%. Severe drought dropped from nearly 26% to 23.5%. Extreme drought conditions are now confined mostly to Cuming County.

Places across the state have seen precipitation levels far below normal this year. Omaha's precipitation level is 11 inches below normal, Sidney's is 10 inches less than normal.

The National Weather Service said in a report that topsoil moisture is rated as 31% short across the state, and 44 counties have authorized emergency haying and grazing on land in the Conservation Reserve Program.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Recent rain has helped ease drought conditions in Nebraska, but not by much.Some areas of northeast Nebraska saw more than 2 inches of rain last week, and other areas got more than an inch.&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/weather/rain-last-week-helps-ease-drought-in-nebraska-slightly/article_211c1ba3-2d2b-5974-be69-d9369eb7d939.html" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>, citing the state Drought Monitor released Thursday by the University of Nebraska, noted that drought conditions are only slightly improved.More than half the state remains in some level of drought this week, although the percentage dropped from almost 56% last week to about 53.4%. Severe drought dropped from nearly 26% to 23.5%. Extreme drought conditions are now confined mostly to Cuming County.Places across the state have seen precipitation levels far below normal this year. Omaha's precipitation level is 11 inches below normal, Sidney's is 10 inches less than normal.The National Weather Service said in a report that topsoil moisture is rated as 31% short across the state, and 44 counties have authorized emergency haying and grazing on land in the Conservation Reserve Program.

Rain helps, but drought conditions persist in Nebraska

9.19.2020 NPHS Softball Hosts home tournament

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP), working with the CODE Task Force, have arrested a North Platte man on multiple charges following the execution of search warrants on Thursday.

Thursday morning, investigators with the CODE (Cooperative Operation for Drug Enforcement) Task Force served a search warrant at a business at 1909 East 4th&nbsp;Street in North Platte. During the search, investigators located more than 500 Alprazolam pills, commonly known as Xanax.

The owner of the business, Michael Hunt, 46, was present at the time of the search. Investigators then served another search warrant at Hunt’s residence, at 492 West North River Road. Investigators found a .50 caliber rifle and approximately 5,000 rounds of ammunition for various firearms at the residence.

Hunt was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, possession of a pharmaceutical controlled substance with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Hunt was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

This operation involved several agencies, including the North Platte Police Department, Nebraska Information Analysis Center, FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection, Department of Homeland Security, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600429474313.jpeg" alt="Michael Hunt" />
 <figcaption>Michael Hunt</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP), working with the CODE Task Force, have arrested a North Platte man on multiple charges following the execution of search warrants on Thursday.Thursday morning, investigators with the CODE (Cooperative Operation for Drug Enforcement) Task Force served a search warrant at a business at 1909 East 4th&nbsp;Street in North Platte. During the search, investigators located more than 500 Alprazolam pills, commonly known as Xanax.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600521373557.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The owner of the business, Michael Hunt, 46, was present at the time of the search. Investigators then served another search warrant at Hunt’s residence, at 492 West North River Road. Investigators found a .50 caliber rifle and approximately 5,000 rounds of ammunition for various firearms at the residence.Hunt was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, possession of a pharmaceutical controlled substance with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Hunt was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.This operation involved several agencies, including the North Platte Police Department, Nebraska Information Analysis Center, FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection, Department of Homeland Security, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

Owner of North Platte construction company arrested after pills found at business

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's unemployment rate for August dropped to 4%, the lowest rate in the country, the state announced Friday.

The state Department of Labor reported the rate was down from a revised July rate of 4.9%.

The declining rate reflects an increase of 4,084 nonfarm jobs in the past month.

Nebraska's unemployment rate is the lowest in the nation, just ahead of Utah's 4.1% rate.

The national unemployment rate in August was 8.4%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561209733269.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's unemployment rate for August dropped to 4%, the lowest rate in the country, the state announced Friday.The state Department of Labor reported the rate was down from a revised July rate of 4.9%.The declining rate reflects an increase of 4,084 nonfarm jobs in the past month.Nebraska's unemployment rate is the lowest in the nation, just ahead of Utah's 4.1% rate.The national unemployment rate in August was 8.4%.

Nebraska's unemployment rate drops to 4%, lowest in U.S.

If
you have recently lost your job, been laid off, facing financial
difficulties, or just having trouble making ends meet, you may
qualify for Christmas Assistance from The Salvation Army or the Santa
Cop program. 


WHO
MAY APPLY:
Families with children, Families without children, Senior Citizens,
Single Individuals.  Must be a resident of Lincoln County, Nebraska

GET
AN APPOINTMENT:
Call The Salvation Army at 308-532-2038. Monday – Thursday from
9:00 – 3:30 p.m. Appointments will be given until 3:30 p.m. on
Thursday 10/23/20. Appointments will be for 10/27; 10/28; or 10/29,
and you must take the appointment day and time you are given.

<a></a>
WHEN
TO APPLY:
 At your appointment time that you were given (see above “Get An
Appointment”). Do not arrive more than 15 minutes before your
scheduled appointment time. Do NOT bring your children. Everyone is
required to wear a face mask (bring your own). You will be required
to use hand sanitizer, and have your temperature taken upon entering
the building.

WHAT
TO BRING TO APPLY:
 Photo ID of person applying; Photo ID or Social Security Cards for
other individuals in the household, Birth Certificates for all
children in the household; Proof of residency (Lincoln County, NE);
Proof of Income (Monthly); Proof of Expenses (Monthly).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600520722900.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If
you have recently lost your job, been laid off, facing financial
difficulties, or just having trouble making ends meet, you may
qualify for Christmas Assistance from The Salvation Army or the Santa
Cop program. 
WHO
MAY APPLY:
Families with children, Families without children, Senior Citizens,
Single Individuals. Must be a resident of Lincoln County, NebraskaGET
AN APPOINTMENT:
Call The Salvation Army at 308-532-2038. Monday – Thursday from
9:00 – 3:30 p.m. Appointments will be given until 3:30 p.m. on
Thursday 10/23/20. Appointments will be for 10/27; 10/28; or 10/29,
and you must take the appointment day and time you are given.<a></a>
WHEN
TO APPLY:
 At your appointment time that you were given (see above “Get An
Appointment”). Do not arrive more than 15 minutes before your
scheduled appointment time. Do NOT bring your children. Everyone is
required to wear a face mask (bring your own). You will be required
to use hand sanitizer, and have your temperature taken upon entering
the building.WHAT
TO BRING TO APPLY:
 Photo ID of person applying; Photo ID or Social Security Cards for
other individuals in the household, Birth Certificates for all
children in the household; Proof of residency (Lincoln County, NE);
Proof of Income (Monthly); Proof of Expenses (Monthly).

North Platte Police Department, Salvation Army kick off 'Santa Cop 2020'

Logan C Cashman, 30, Gothenburg and Destinie M Richardson, 30, Gothenburg

Tydus L Ditch, 23, North Platte and Whittney R Pirnie, 23, North Platte

Jimmy D Knutson, 58, North Platte and Laura M Legg, 44, North Platte

Timothy G Wade, 28, North Platte and Maranda L Darling, 28, North Platte

Isaiah N Smith, 22, North Platte and Rebecca P Kimminau, 28, North Platte

Tyrone J Summers, 25, Brady and Brandi M Austin, 29, Brady

Published September 19, 2020Logan C Cashman, 30, Gothenburg and Destinie M Richardson, 30, GothenburgTydus L Ditch, 23, North Platte and Whittney R Pirnie, 23, North PlatteJimmy D Knutson, 58, North Platte and Laura M Legg, 44, North PlatteTimothy G Wade, 28, North Platte and Maranda L Darling, 28, North PlatteIsaiah N Smith, 22, North Platte and Rebecca P Kimminau, 28, North PlatteTyrone J Summers, 25, Brady and Brandi M Austin, 29, Brady

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses

The North Platte Public Schools Foundation in conjunction with North Platte Public&nbsp;Schools kicked off NPPS Bulldog Staff Member of the month this week. 

"We are excited to announce that we are honoring Mrs. Kelli Sheets for the month of September,” says Terri Burchell, Executive Director of the Foundation.&nbsp; 

The staff person is chosen through nominations that are submitted by the district staff.&nbsp; This is what Mrs. Vikki Carlson wrote in her nomination about Mrs. Sheets:

Mrs. Kelli Sheets is an above and beyond staff member! Kelli serves multiple roles in our district. First, Kelli is our EL Coordinator. She oversees the learning of all of our K-12 English Learner students. Our EL program serves over 100 students and 15+ languages. Her responsibilities as an EL coordinator include but are not limited to: reviewing all Home Language surveys when a student enrolls in the NPPSD, assessment to all of our EL students K-12 for appropriate services and general education learning… Second, Kelli serves as our elementary EL teacher in addition to serving as our EL coordinator! She serves all of our K-5 EL students in an instructional and educational setting ensuring that our students are receiving individualized English Learner services. Kelli even drives one of our district mini-buses between Jefferson and Washington so that she can bring students together from both of our designated EL elementary buildings and provide EL services in a culturally connected and engaging environment...I could list one hundred more tasks she does! If I could bottle up her energy and all of the aforementioned traits and sprinkle them around like pixie dust, I would! Kelli never complains...she never says a bad word about anyone...she has a heart of gold...she loves what she does...and most importantly...she loves her students unconditionally. Kelli is very deserving of this recognition!

This month the Foundation was the sponsor for the basket filled with special treats for Mrs. Sheets.&nbsp; Prairie Friends and Flowers sponsored the floral arrangement.&nbsp; Staff members are awarded monthly throughout the school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600519994625.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseThe North Platte Public Schools Foundation in conjunction with North Platte Public&nbsp;Schools kicked off NPPS Bulldog Staff Member of the month this week. "We are excited to announce that we are honoring Mrs. Kelli Sheets for the month of September,” says Terri Burchell, Executive Director of the Foundation.&nbsp; The staff person is chosen through nominations that are submitted by the district staff.&nbsp; This is what Mrs. Vikki Carlson wrote in her nomination about Mrs. Sheets:Mrs. Kelli Sheets is an above and beyond staff member! Kelli serves multiple roles in our district. First, Kelli is our EL Coordinator. She oversees the learning of all of our K-12 English Learner students. Our EL program serves over 100 students and 15+ languages. Her responsibilities as an EL coordinator include but are not limited to: reviewing all Home Language surveys when a student enrolls in the NPPSD, assessment to all of our EL students K-12 for appropriate services and general education learning… Second, Kelli serves as our elementary EL teacher in addition to serving as our EL coordinator! She serves all of our K-5 EL students in an instructional and educational setting ensuring that our students are receiving individualized English Learner services. Kelli even drives one of our district mini-buses between Jefferson and Washington so that she can bring students together from both of our designated EL elementary buildings and provide EL services in a culturally connected and engaging environment...I could list one hundred more tasks she does! If I could bottle up her energy and all of the aforementioned traits and sprinkle them around like pixie dust, I would! Kelli never complains...she never says a bad word about anyone...she has a heart of gold...she loves what she does...and most importantly...she loves her students unconditionally. Kelli is very deserving of this recognition!This month the Foundation was the sponsor for the basket filled with special treats for Mrs. Sheets.&nbsp; Prairie Friends and Flowers sponsored the floral arrangement.&nbsp; Staff members are awarded monthly throughout the school year.

NPPSF names Kelli Sheets 'Staff Member of the Month'

9.18.2020 NPHS Football @ Lincoln NorthStar

Scotty C talks with North Platte native Mark Hooper who is a wildland firefighter in the western states. Mark and his crew are on the front lines of the current fires.

Scotty C talks with North Platte native Mark Hooper who is a wildland firefighter in the western states. Mark and his crew are on the front lines of the current fires.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: From the frontlines with wildlife firefighter Mark Hooper" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/sfacm-ec1a81?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600438361761.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎧 Post Podcast: From the front line with wildland firefighter Mark Hooper

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department reported three new positive cases in the WCDHD Jurisdiction on Thursday.

All cases are from Lincoln County and under investigation.

After further investigation, one case previously identified as a resident of the WCDHD jurisdiction was transferred to the appropriate health department.

<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR235qbVU_VbHXo-8YpzYZQsEazfPnp9ZAxzHfK0FLYPWUnwoDYYm1Ym0y8#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department reported three new positive cases in the WCDHD Jurisdiction on Thursday.All cases are from Lincoln County and under investigation.After further investigation, one case previously identified as a resident of the WCDHD jurisdiction was transferred to the appropriate health department.<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR235qbVU_VbHXo-8YpzYZQsEazfPnp9ZAxzHfK0FLYPWUnwoDYYm1Ym0y8#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600434648990.png" alt="covid update september 17 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update september 17 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

Three new positive COVID cases reported in Lincoln County on Thursday

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department lowered the COVID-19 Community Risk Dial slightly on Thursday, however, it still remains in the Orange or "Elevated" level.


The risk dial moved from a 2.19 down to a 2.12 this week, which
remains within the elevated risk level. 

There were changes in the
following variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:

WCDHD reports decreases in the following
(please reference the WCDHD risk dial website page for additional
information):

The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is reviewed by the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">HERE.</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department lowered the COVID-19 Community Risk Dial slightly on Thursday, however, it still remains in the Orange or "Elevated" level.
The risk dial moved from a 2.19 down to a 2.12 this week, which
remains within the elevated risk level. There were changes in the
following variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:WCDHD reports decreases in the following
(please reference the WCDHD risk dial website page for additional
information):<ol>
 <li>Measure ID R1: Weekly positivity
	rate 
	
	</li><li>Measure ID R3: Case rate per
	million 
	
	</li><li>Measure ID R12: Medical &amp;
	Surgical Beds 
	
</li>
 </ol>We had an increase in the following:<ol>
 <li>Measure ID R2: Trajectory of cases
		
	</li><li>Measure ID R4: Average Daily
	Hospitalization 
	
</li>
 </ol>The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is reviewed by the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">HERE.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600386552864.png" alt="As of September 17, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of September 17, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600386623852.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600386640625.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

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