LINCOLN, Neb. (DHHS)-The latest statewide case total is 65,376, as of Oct. 27. There were 55 new COVID-19-related deaths in the state over the last seven days, for a total of 620. A total of 42,633 Nebraskans diagnosed with COVID-19 have since recovered.

The daily average of positive cases for the last seven days is 852, compared to a daily average of 838 last week, and 684 and 530 cases in prior weeks.

Daily hospitalizations increased by 37 over the last seven days for a total of 436 and 91 of Nebraska's 93 counties have had one or more positive COVID-19 cases in the last 14 days.

DHHS urges all Nebraskans to avoid the Three Cs to slow the spread of the virus:

Door to door trick-or-treating, truck-or-treat events and community celebrations come with a higher risk for infection. Nebraskans are encouraged to adapt these and other fall activities to help limit the potential for COVID-19 exposure.

Anyone dressing up is encouraged to make a cloth face mask part of their costume, as layering a costume mask over a cloth mask can make it hard to breathe.

Nebraskans are reminded to wear a mask, keep at least six feet of distance, wash hands and use hand sanitizer anytime you're with people from outside your household, and avoid crowded places, close contact and confined spaces. Anyone with COVID-19, or who may have been exposed to COVID-19, should avoid in-person celebrations.

The CDC has tips to help adjust plans for Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, Thanksgiving and other celebrations at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween&nbsp;</a>.

If you plan to vote in person, the CDC offers basic precautions to help limit time spent at polling places and reduce the likelihood of spreading COVID-19.

More information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/going-out/voting-tips.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/going-out/voting-tips.html&nbsp;</a>.

Gov. Pete Ricketts and state leaders announced this week that Nebraska will use an existing vaccine provider network to distribute a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as one receives federal approval and supplies are made available to the state.

Doses are expected to be limited early on and will go to health care personnel and at-risk groups. Nebraska's existing Vaccines for Children network will distribute doses via health care providers, local health departments, federally qualified health centers, community-based clinics, tribal health care centers, and hospitals across the state.

A second phase of vaccine distribution for the wider population will begin when large numbers of vaccine doses are available. The CDC has not yet announced an arrival date for a vaccine. Nebraska's COVID-19 Vaccination Plan is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/covid19vaccine">http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/covid19vaccine</a>.

The state is launching the first of several testing pods designed to help expand rapid mobile COVID-19 testing during winter. Five drive-through and five walk-up models will be deployed to support testing as needed across the state.

The drive-through model have a heated, enclosed center unit for healthcare workers to administer tests to drivers and passengers who can remain in their vehicle. The freestanding walk-up model allows medical personnel to collect data while minimizing the contact with patients.

The first drive-through pod will be in use this weekend at the Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha campus. Appointments can be scheduled starting Thursday, Oct. 29. Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">Testnebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/es/" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish.

Last testing date for Test Nebraska Crossroads location is today

Due to upcoming construction at the Crossroads site in Omaha, the last testing date for that Test Nebraska location is today.

Those who may have been exposed to COVID-19 or who are experiencing symptoms can receive a free test through Test Nebraska. Symptoms can include a fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, tiredness, muscle aches, headaches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.&nbsp;

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">Testnebraska.com&nbsp;</a>, or use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/es/" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish, to schedule an appointment at one of more than 60 Test Nebraska locations across the state. Nebraskans with general questions about testing or who need help completing the online assessment can call the&nbsp;Test Nebraska hotline at (402) 207-9377.

Community resilience through Community CARES grants

The state of Nebraska and the DHHS are pleased to announce Round 2 of Community CARES grants. Grants will help organizations and communities mitigate the impacts of Covid-19. Grants in Round 2 will be available to eligible organizations that did not receive funding in Round 1.

Charities, providers and centers of worship may apply by visiting the Coronavirus Relief Fund at&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Programs%26Grants" target="_blank">https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Programs&amp;Grants&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp; Application deadline is November 13.

Nebraskans seeking information or help with general questions can call the DHHS COVID-19 information hotline at (402) 552-6645, or toll-free (833) 998-2275. The COVID-19 hotline is open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CT, 7 days a week. DHHS will continue to share new information via the DHHS website,&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx</a>, as well as on Facebook and Twitter.

LINCOLN, Neb. (DHHS)-The latest statewide case total is 65,376, as of Oct. 27. There were 55 new COVID-19-related deaths in the state over the last seven days, for a total of 620. A total of 42,633 Nebraskans diagnosed with COVID-19 have since recovered.The daily average of positive cases for the last seven days is 852, compared to a daily average of 838 last week, and 684 and 530 cases in prior weeks.Daily hospitalizations increased by 37 over the last seven days for a total of 436 and 91 of Nebraska's 93 counties have had one or more positive COVID-19 cases in the last 14 days.DHHS urges all Nebraskans to avoid the Three Cs to slow the spread of the virus:<ul>
 <li>Crowded places&nbsp;– avoid group gatherings if you can't maintain 6-feet of distance from others.</li><li>Close contact&nbsp;– wear a mask or maintain 6-feet of distance from people not in your household.</li><li>Confined spaces&nbsp;– avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation.</li>
 </ul>Halloween safetyDoor to door trick-or-treating, truck-or-treat events and community celebrations come with a higher risk for infection. Nebraskans are encouraged to adapt these and other fall activities to help limit the potential for COVID-19 exposure.Anyone dressing up is encouraged to make a cloth face mask part of their costume, as layering a costume mask over a cloth mask can make it hard to breathe.Nebraskans are reminded to wear a mask, keep at least six feet of distance, wash hands and use hand sanitizer anytime you're with people from outside your household, and avoid crowded places, close contact and confined spaces. Anyone with COVID-19, or who may have been exposed to COVID-19, should avoid in-person celebrations.The CDC has tips to help adjust plans for Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, Thanksgiving and other celebrations at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween&nbsp;</a>.Tips for voters on Election DayIf you plan to vote in person, the CDC offers basic precautions to help limit time spent at polling places and reduce the likelihood of spreading COVID-19.<ul>
 <li>Wear a mask</li><li>Bring your own supplies - including hand sanitizer, a black pen, and any materials such as voter registration card or sample ballot.</li><li>If using public or private transportation to get to your polling place, open a window and avoid touching things if possible.</li><li>While in line, keep your distance from others - even if everyone is wearing masks. </li>
 </ul>More information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/going-out/voting-tips.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/going-out/voting-tips.html&nbsp;</a>.COVID-19 vaccine updateGov. Pete Ricketts and state leaders announced this week that Nebraska will use an existing vaccine provider network to distribute a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as one receives federal approval and supplies are made available to the state.Doses are expected to be limited early on and will go to health care personnel and at-risk groups. Nebraska's existing Vaccines for Children network will distribute doses via health care providers, local health departments, federally qualified health centers, community-based clinics, tribal health care centers, and hospitals across the state.A second phase of vaccine distribution for the wider population will begin when large numbers of vaccine doses are available. The CDC has not yet announced an arrival date for a vaccine. Nebraska's COVID-19 Vaccination Plan is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/covid19vaccine">http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/covid19vaccine</a>.COVID-19 testing updateNew testing pod deployed in OmahaThe state is launching the first of several testing pods designed to help expand rapid mobile COVID-19 testing during winter. Five drive-through and five walk-up models will be deployed to support testing as needed across the state.The drive-through model have a heated, enclosed center unit for healthcare workers to administer tests to drivers and passengers who can remain in their vehicle. The freestanding walk-up model allows medical personnel to collect data while minimizing the contact with patients.The first drive-through pod will be in use this weekend at the Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha campus. Appointments can be scheduled starting Thursday, Oct. 29. Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">Testnebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/es/" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish.Last testing date for Test Nebraska Crossroads location is todayDue to upcoming construction at the Crossroads site in Omaha, the last testing date for that Test Nebraska location is today. COVID-19 testing through Test NebraskaThose who may have been exposed to COVID-19 or who are experiencing symptoms can receive a free test through Test Nebraska. Symptoms can include a fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, tiredness, muscle aches, headaches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">Testnebraska.com&nbsp;</a>, or use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/es/" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish, to schedule an appointment at one of more than 60 Test Nebraska locations across the state. Nebraskans with general questions about testing or who need help completing the online assessment can call the&nbsp;Test Nebraska hotline at (402) 207-9377.Community resilience through Community CARES grantsThe state of Nebraska and the DHHS are pleased to announce Round 2 of Community CARES grants. Grants will help organizations and communities mitigate the impacts of Covid-19. Grants in Round 2 will be available to eligible organizations that did not receive funding in Round 1.Charities, providers and centers of worship may apply by visiting the Coronavirus Relief Fund at&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Programs%26Grants" target="_blank">https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Programs&amp;Grants&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp; Application deadline is November 13.Nebraskans seeking information or help with general questions can call the DHHS COVID-19 information hotline at (402) 552-6645, or toll-free (833) 998-2275. The COVID-19 hotline is open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CT, 7 days a week. DHHS will continue to share new information via the DHHS website,&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx</a>, as well as on Facebook and Twitter.

Nebraska reports 55 COVID-related deaths over last 7 days

Scotty and Amanda from the American Red Cross talk about the blood drive with Flatrock 100.7 this Friday, October 30 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Red Cross Donation Center (1111 S. Cottonwood Ave.).

Scotty and Amanda from the American Red Cross talk about the blood drive with Flatrock 100.7 this Friday, October 30 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Red Cross Donation Center (1111 S. Cottonwood Ave.).<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: American Red Cross blood drive with Flatrock 100.7" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/c4iwa-f0beef?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: American Red Cross blood drive with Flatrock 100.7

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska jumped to nearly 500 and set another new record as cases of the virus continued to surge in the state.

State health officials said 483 people were hospitalized with the virus Wednesday, up from the previous day's record-tying 436, as 1,169 new cases of the virus were reported. The state's rate of new cases remained eighth-highest in the nation as the number of cases in Nebraska grew to 66,545 and 628 deaths were linked to the virus.

The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks increased to 626.04 on Wednesday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska jumped over the past two weeks from 683.71 new cases per day on Oct. 14 to 852.43 new cases per day on Wednesday according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

Even with the increase in cases, the state said 32% of Nebraska's intensive care beds and 72% of its ventilators remain available, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska jumped to nearly 500 and set another new record as cases of the virus continued to surge in the state.State health officials said 483 people were hospitalized with the virus Wednesday, up from the previous day's record-tying 436, as 1,169 new cases of the virus were reported. The state's rate of new cases remained eighth-highest in the nation as the number of cases in Nebraska grew to 66,545 and 628 deaths were linked to the virus.The rate of new cases per 100,000 Nebraska residents over the past two weeks increased to 626.04 on Wednesday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska jumped over the past two weeks from 683.71 new cases per day on Oct. 14 to 852.43 new cases per day on Wednesday according to data from Johns Hopkins University.Even with the increase in cases, the state said 32% of Nebraska's intensive care beds and 72% of its ventilators remain available, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>.

Nebraska virus hospitalizations jump to set another record

According to North Platte Police, Richard White has been located safe in Missouri. No further information was released.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Family members and North Platte police are seeking information on a North Platte man who is missing.

According to family members, 62-year-old Richard White left his home in North Platte on Monday morning, heading to visit his brother in Branson, Missouri. But, Richard never made it to his destination and has not been heard from or seen since.

North Platte police say Richard is believed to be traveling in a 2016 grey Chevrolet Malibu with Nebraska license plates&nbsp;15-BC58.

If you have any information on Richard's whereabouts, contact the North Platte Police Department at 308-535-6789 or local law enforcement.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603892519788.png" alt="Richard White" />
 <figcaption>Richard White</figcaption>
 </figure>Update 10/29/20 8:20 amAccording to North Platte Police, Richard White has been located safe in Missouri. No further information was released.NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Family members and North Platte police are seeking information on a North Platte man who is missing.According to family members, 62-year-old Richard White left his home in North Platte on Monday morning, heading to visit his brother in Branson, Missouri. But, Richard never made it to his destination and has not been heard from or seen since.North Platte police say Richard is believed to be traveling in a 2016 grey Chevrolet Malibu with Nebraska license plates&nbsp;15-BC58.If you have any information on Richard's whereabouts, contact the North Platte Police Department at 308-535-6789 or local law enforcement.&nbsp;

UPDATED Police, family seek information on missing North Platte man

A North Platte woman was arrested on Monday, accused of felony child abuse.

On October 26, North Platte police responded to Great Plains Health on the report of possible child abuse.

Officers made contact with hospital personnel, and learned that a 2-month-old child had been brought in with injuries the staff deemed "suspicious."

Police say staff advised officers that the child's injuries were serious and the cause could not be established.

According to police, officers spoke with the child's mother, 25-year-old Trina Clark.

Following questioning, police say officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Clark for child abuse, a Class II felony.

Clark was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

The child was flown to an Omaha hospital for treatment. Police say the baby is in stable condition at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603976049737.jpeg" alt="Trina Clark" />
 <figcaption>Trina Clark</figcaption>
 </figure>A North Platte woman was arrested on Monday, accused of felony child abuse.On October 26, North Platte police responded to Great Plains Health on the report of possible child abuse.Officers made contact with hospital personnel, and learned that a 2-month-old child had been brought in with injuries the staff deemed "suspicious."Police say staff advised officers that the child's injuries were serious and the cause could not be established.According to police, officers spoke with the child's mother, 25-year-old Trina Clark.Following questioning, police say officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Clark for child abuse, a Class II felony.Clark was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.The child was flown to an Omaha hospital for treatment. Police say the baby is in stable condition at this time.

North Platte woman accused of felony child abuse, baby flown to Omaha

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported another increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday.

WCDHD officials say 29 tests were returned as positive for the virus, saying all of the new cases are in Lincoln County.

There are now 560 active cases reported in the WCDHD jurisdiction with 21 people currently hospitalized. Since March, there have been 1,102 confirmed cases of the virus with 11 deaths determined to be COVID-related.

For more information, visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation">WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard</a>.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported another increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday.WCDHD officials say 29 tests were returned as positive for the virus, saying all of the new cases are in Lincoln County.There are now 560 active cases reported in the WCDHD jurisdiction with 21 people currently hospitalized. Since March, there have been 1,102 confirmed cases of the virus with 11 deaths determined to be COVID-related.For more information, visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation">WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603966572724.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

29 new positive cases of COVID-19 reported in Lincoln County on Wednesday

During the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Eagle Communications raised awareness through an advertising campaign with many of our valued clients.

Eagle then donated a portion of the proceeds to the Callahan Cancer Center at Great Plains Health.

Over 45 clients agreed to help Eagle raise awareness about breast cancer through hundreds of shared messages on all five Eagle radio stations.

At the end of the campaign, Eagle and our many generous clients were honored to donate $675 to the Callahan Cancer Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603936796587.png" alt="Eagle Communications Sales Manager Lewys Carlini presents a check to the Callahan Cancer Center." />
 <figcaption>Eagle Communications Sales Manager Lewys Carlini presents a check to the Callahan Cancer Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Eagle Communications raised awareness through an advertising campaign with many of our valued clients.Eagle then donated a portion of the proceeds to the Callahan Cancer Center at Great Plains Health.Over 45 clients agreed to help Eagle raise awareness about breast cancer through hundreds of shared messages on all five Eagle radio stations.At the end of the campaign, Eagle and our many generous clients were honored to donate $675 to the Callahan Cancer Center.

Eagle Radio, local businesses make donation to Callahan Cancer Center

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (GPH)-At a news conference Wednesday, Great Plains Health along with representatives from the primary care community, the public school and the local health department demonstrated a united front to stress to the community the importance of wearing masks to help mitigate the further spread of COVID-19.

Shannon Vanderheiden, WCDHD executive director, credited the community with their early compliance in mitigation strategies to help keep our cases down in the first four months. “However in the last few months, we have seen a community decline in individual ownership, which has significantly impacted our communities in terms of increases in cases, hospitalizations and deaths,” said Vanderheiden.

Dr. Jeff Brittan with Midlands Family Medicine encouraged the public to look at the science. “We need to concern ourselves with science and not politics, and the science says that we should be wearing masks,” he said. &nbsp;“With this particular infection, you’ve got to do what you can do and wearing the mask is what we can do to prevent spread.”

Dr. Ned Mack borrowed a quote from Chris Christie who spent a week in an intensive care unit after contracting COVID-19, he said, "When you get this disease, it hits you how easy it is to prevent.&nbsp;We are asked to wear cloth over our mouth and nose, wash our hands and avoid crowds. These minor inconveniences can save your life, your neighbors, and the economy. Seldom has so little been asked for so much benefit.”

Dr. Mack finished his remarks by saying, "Our strength during this crisis is crucial to our own lives as well as the lives of our families, friends and neighbors. The doctors and nurses of this hospital are risking their lives for us. They are counting on you and me to be a force in moving this community's COVID crisis in a better direction and the way to do that has been made very clear.”

Dr. Emily Jones shared a personal story about how hospital capacity impacts patients that are sick with other ailments, not just COVID. “This is about more than just those that contract COVID,” she said. “We know a lot of people are surviving this, but there are a lot of hospitalizations across the state because of COVID and that is concerning. When others can’t get the care they need because hospitals are full.”

Continuing the message of the importance of masks, Great Plains Health chief executive officer, Mel McNea stressed the impacts on healthcare workers and providers when masks are not worn.

“My concern is not bed capacity, my concern is nursing capacity,” he said. &nbsp;“As a community, we cannot afford to overwhelm this healthcare system. We have patients that need hospitalization. I’m asking your help because someday you’re going to need our help.&nbsp; I’m worried about not having the staff to care for patients. We need to take action now and be respectful of our healthcare providers. In May, there were 232 hospitalizations, today Nebraska hospitalizations are over 436.”

McNea closed the media conference underscoring the importance of the community’s role in mitigating the spread of COVID19 by,

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wearing a mask

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maintaining social distance

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoiding large gatherings

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staying home when you are sick

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (GPH)-At a news conference Wednesday, Great Plains Health along with representatives from the primary care community, the public school and the local health department demonstrated a united front to stress to the community the importance of wearing masks to help mitigate the further spread of COVID-19.Shannon Vanderheiden, WCDHD executive director, credited the community with their early compliance in mitigation strategies to help keep our cases down in the first four months. “However in the last few months, we have seen a community decline in individual ownership, which has significantly impacted our communities in terms of increases in cases, hospitalizations and deaths,” said Vanderheiden.Dr. Jeff Brittan with Midlands Family Medicine encouraged the public to look at the science. “We need to concern ourselves with science and not politics, and the science says that we should be wearing masks,” he said. &nbsp;“With this particular infection, you’ve got to do what you can do and wearing the mask is what we can do to prevent spread.”Dr. Ned Mack borrowed a quote from Chris Christie who spent a week in an intensive care unit after contracting COVID-19, he said, "When you get this disease, it hits you how easy it is to prevent.&nbsp;We are asked to wear cloth over our mouth and nose, wash our hands and avoid crowds. These minor inconveniences can save your life, your neighbors, and the economy. Seldom has so little been asked for so much benefit.”Dr. Mack finished his remarks by saying, "Our strength during this crisis is crucial to our own lives as well as the lives of our families, friends and neighbors. The doctors and nurses of this hospital are risking their lives for us. They are counting on you and me to be a force in moving this community's COVID crisis in a better direction and the way to do that has been made very clear.”Dr. Emily Jones shared a personal story about how hospital capacity impacts patients that are sick with other ailments, not just COVID. “This is about more than just those that contract COVID,” she said. “We know a lot of people are surviving this, but there are a lot of hospitalizations across the state because of COVID and that is concerning. When others can’t get the care they need because hospitals are full.”Continuing the message of the importance of masks, Great Plains Health chief executive officer, Mel McNea stressed the impacts on healthcare workers and providers when masks are not worn.“My concern is not bed capacity, my concern is nursing capacity,” he said. &nbsp;“As a community, we cannot afford to overwhelm this healthcare system. We have patients that need hospitalization. I’m asking your help because someday you’re going to need our help.&nbsp; I’m worried about not having the staff to care for patients. We need to take action now and be respectful of our healthcare providers. In May, there were 232 hospitalizations, today Nebraska hospitalizations are over 436.”McNea closed the media conference underscoring the importance of the community’s role in mitigating the spread of COVID19 by,·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wearing a mask·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maintaining social distance·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoiding large gatherings·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staying home when you are sick

Great Plains Health, primary care providers ask community members to wear masks

GIBBON, Neb. (BCSO)-The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office is investigating a series of incidents near Gibbon NE on the evening of Tuesday, October 27, 2020. What started as a suspicious activity call turned into several vehicle thefts and property damage. Times are approximate. 

8:07 PM - A rural Gibbon citizen reported seeing a suspicious pickup truck with no license plates parked near a rural property located at 46000 block of 78th Rd. The citizen knew the property owner, observed an unknown white 2015 Chevrolet flatbed pickup truck and suspected suspicious activity. An unknown person was discovered, who soon departed this property heading northbound in the pickup. The concerned citizen called the Sheriff's office and deputies responded to the area. Near 100th and Range Rd, the deputy observed the suspect pickup and pulled behind to contact it. Upon doing so, the suspect pickup turned off the headlights and showed no signs of slowing or stopping. The deputy discontinued efforts to stop the driver due to safety concerns but notified additional deputies who responded to the area. A short time later, deputies believe the pickup truck was observed from a distance within the city limits of Gibbon however were unable close on it. 

8:49 PM - The suspect Chevrolet pickup pulled into a rural yard at the 53000 block of 85th Rd with a suspected intent to steal fuel. At some point the suspect pickup struck a piece of farm equipment, got stuck, and the driver was confronted by the resident. The resident fired several shots in the vicinity of the unknown suspect, but no damage or injury was reported. The suspect fled on foot in this area. With the assistance of Kearney Police, Shelton Police and NSP, deputies searched the area around the residence. 

9:33 PM - A John Deere 8130 tractor and ripper attachment were reported stolen from a rural Shelton residence on the 8000 block of Sioux Rd. Prior to stealing the tractor, the suspect forcibly entered a garage and rummaged through a car. 

9:4 7 PM - The tractor was located abandoned and parked behind Sell Auto at 614 Hwy 30 in Gibbon, NE. It appeared to have some exterior damage, and&nbsp;portions of a chain-link fence were observed attached to it. It was soon discovered the fence section was part of the Gibbon Waste Water Treatment Plant. It was also discovered that a small portion of the fence was damaged at the nearby Gibbon Packing facility. 

9:53 PM - It was discovered that a 2007 GMC pickup truck owned by Sell Auto was missing from their lot, and reported stolen. The whereabouts of that vehicle, as well as the person taking it, are unknown. 

Upon further investigation, the Chevrolet pickup left stuck at the rural residence near Gibbon was discovered to have been reported as stolen on October 24, 2020, from Harrison County MO. Buffalo County deputies were assisted by members of the Kearney Police Department, Shelton Police, and Nebraska State Patrol. The KPD K-9 unit responded as well as the BCSO drone. A geo-cast broadcast notification was sent to residents in the immediate area. The suspect is unknown and described as a white adult male, average height/weight, with a dark coat/hoodie. Anyone with any information concerning this case is encouraged to contact the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office at 308-236-8555 or Buffalo County Crime Stoppers at 308-237-3424. 

GIBBON, Neb. (BCSO)-The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office is investigating a series of incidents near Gibbon NE on the evening of Tuesday, October 27, 2020. What started as a suspicious activity call turned into several vehicle thefts and property damage. Times are approximate. 8:07 PM - A rural Gibbon citizen reported seeing a suspicious pickup truck with no license plates parked near a rural property located at 46000 block of 78th Rd. The citizen knew the property owner, observed an unknown white 2015 Chevrolet flatbed pickup truck and suspected suspicious activity. An unknown person was discovered, who soon departed this property heading northbound in the pickup. The concerned citizen called the Sheriff's office and deputies responded to the area. Near 100th and Range Rd, the deputy observed the suspect pickup and pulled behind to contact it. Upon doing so, the suspect pickup turned off the headlights and showed no signs of slowing or stopping. The deputy discontinued efforts to stop the driver due to safety concerns but notified additional deputies who responded to the area. A short time later, deputies believe the pickup truck was observed from a distance within the city limits of Gibbon however were unable close on it. 8:49 PM - The suspect Chevrolet pickup pulled into a rural yard at the 53000 block of 85th Rd with a suspected intent to steal fuel. At some point the suspect pickup struck a piece of farm equipment, got stuck, and the driver was confronted by the resident. The resident fired several shots in the vicinity of the unknown suspect, but no damage or injury was reported. The suspect fled on foot in this area. With the assistance of Kearney Police, Shelton Police and NSP, deputies searched the area around the residence. 9:33 PM - A John Deere 8130 tractor and ripper attachment were reported stolen from a rural Shelton residence on the 8000 block of Sioux Rd. Prior to stealing the tractor, the suspect forcibly entered a garage and rummaged through a car. 9:4 7 PM - The tractor was located abandoned and parked behind Sell Auto at 614 Hwy 30 in Gibbon, NE. It appeared to have some exterior damage, and&nbsp;portions of a chain-link fence were observed attached to it. It was soon discovered the fence section was part of the Gibbon Waste Water Treatment Plant. It was also discovered that a small portion of the fence was damaged at the nearby Gibbon Packing facility. 9:53 PM - It was discovered that a 2007 GMC pickup truck owned by Sell Auto was missing from their lot, and reported stolen. The whereabouts of that vehicle, as well as the person taking it, are unknown. Upon further investigation, the Chevrolet pickup left stuck at the rural residence near Gibbon was discovered to have been reported as stolen on October 24, 2020, from Harrison County MO. Buffalo County deputies were assisted by members of the Kearney Police Department, Shelton Police, and Nebraska State Patrol. The KPD K-9 unit responded as well as the BCSO drone. A geo-cast broadcast notification was sent to residents in the immediate area. The suspect is unknown and described as a white adult male, average height/weight, with a dark coat/hoodie. Anyone with any information concerning this case is encouraged to contact the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office at 308-236-8555 or Buffalo County Crime Stoppers at 308-237-3424.

Buffalo County Sheriff's Office investigating string of vehicle thefts, property damage

A joint news conference held Wednesday, October 28, 2020, with North Platte Public Schools, West Central District Health Department, Great Plains Health, Dr. Emily Jones, Dr. Ned Mack and Dr. Mike Britton. The topic of discussion was the wearing of face coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

A joint news conference held Wednesday, October 28, 2020, with North Platte Public Schools, West Central District Health Department, Great Plains Health, Dr. Emily Jones, Dr. Ned Mack and Dr. Mike Britton. The topic of discussion was the wearing of face coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fvideos%2F948086242269081%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥 News Conference: NPPSD, WCDHD, Great Plains Health and local physicians

North Platte Public Schools' Return to School Plan for educating students in a pandemic no longer indicates the district will automatically shift to fully remote learning if the West Central District Health Department's Community Risk Dial moves into the red or the severe zone.

Superintendent Dr. Ron Hanson said the change, made October 28, 2020, updates the previously written protocols to match what has been said publicly and is more aligned with federal, state, and local health officials now know about the virus.&nbsp; "After completing ten weeks of schools and the Fall activities season, we now know more about the effectiveness of face coverings, social distancing, and other safety protocols that have been successfully implemented in our schools," Hanson stated.

Dr. Hanson went on to add, "If the Community Risk Dial evaluates into the 'red' zone, NPPS will work with the West Central District Health Department and the Nebraska Department of Education to continue to implement plans and protocols that address the concerns in our schools.&nbsp; We will continue to follow recommendations from both agencies regarding how schools can continue to operate with in-person learning while continuing to control and reduce the risk of the COVID-19 spread effectively."

NPPS officials meet weekly with the West Central District Health Department and biweekly meetings with the Education Commissioner. They have followed their guidance in keeping students and staff safe, and schools open. &nbsp; Using the Community Risk Factors, NPPS uses District Internal Factors, including the number of students and staff who are either quarantined or isolated weekly to determine steps that should be taken for keeping schools open.&nbsp; So far, NPPS has seen no evidence of school spread.&nbsp; Even though the community and state have witnessed a recent increase in hospitalizations, deaths, and positive cases, the schools have kept the quarantine and positive rate low.

Changes to the pandemic plans and playbooks will be launched this Friday, October 30, 2020, <a href="https://www.nppsd.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Students%20%26%20Parents%7CCOVID-19%20Resources" target="_blank">https://www.nppsd.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Students%20%26%20Parents%7CCOVID-19%20Resources</a>.

NPPSD News ReleaseNorth Platte Public Schools' Return to School Plan for educating students in a pandemic no longer indicates the district will automatically shift to fully remote learning if the West Central District Health Department's Community Risk Dial moves into the red or the severe zone.Superintendent Dr. Ron Hanson said the change, made October 28, 2020, updates the previously written protocols to match what has been said publicly and is more aligned with federal, state, and local health officials now know about the virus.&nbsp; "After completing ten weeks of schools and the Fall activities season, we now know more about the effectiveness of face coverings, social distancing, and other safety protocols that have been successfully implemented in our schools," Hanson stated.Dr. Hanson went on to add, "If the Community Risk Dial evaluates into the 'red' zone, NPPS will work with the West Central District Health Department and the Nebraska Department of Education to continue to implement plans and protocols that address the concerns in our schools.&nbsp; We will continue to follow recommendations from both agencies regarding how schools can continue to operate with in-person learning while continuing to control and reduce the risk of the COVID-19 spread effectively."NPPS officials meet weekly with the West Central District Health Department and biweekly meetings with the Education Commissioner. They have followed their guidance in keeping students and staff safe, and schools open. &nbsp; Using the Community Risk Factors, NPPS uses District Internal Factors, including the number of students and staff who are either quarantined or isolated weekly to determine steps that should be taken for keeping schools open.&nbsp; So far, NPPS has seen no evidence of school spread.&nbsp; Even though the community and state have witnessed a recent increase in hospitalizations, deaths, and positive cases, the schools have kept the quarantine and positive rate low.Changes to the pandemic plans and playbooks will be launched this Friday, October 30, 2020, <a href="https://www.nppsd.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Students%20%26%20Parents%7CCOVID-19%20Resources" target="_blank">https://www.nppsd.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Students%20%26%20Parents%7CCOVID-19%20Resources</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603911409296.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fvideos%2F948086242269081%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

NPPSD plans to stick with in-person learning if dial moves to 'Red' level

The Chase County Sheriff's Office is seeking information from the public as to the whereabouts of Anthony W. Hansen. 

 Hansen is wanted in Colorado for dangerous crimes. He is believed to have ties to the Chase County area and recently ran from authorities in southwest Nebraska. 

Hansen has been known to carry firearms.  For your safety, please do not approach him. 

 Anyone with information as to where he might be found is asked to please call our office any time of the day or night at 308-882-4748.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603903427995.png" alt="Anthony Hansen" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Hansen</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chase County Sheriff's Office is seeking information from the public as to the whereabouts of Anthony W. Hansen. Hansen is wanted in Colorado for dangerous crimes. He is believed to have ties to the Chase County area and recently ran from authorities in southwest Nebraska. Hansen has been known to carry firearms. For your safety, please do not approach him. Anyone with information as to where he might be found is asked to please call our office any time of the day or night at 308-882-4748.&nbsp;

Chase County Sheriff seeking information on man wanted for 'dangerous crimes'

MERRIMAN, Neb. – Bowring Ranch State Historical Park has canceled its annual holiday event, Christmas at the Bowring, because of the potential spread of coronavirus.

Diane Burress, park superintendent, said the Sandhills park is planning events for 2021 and is hopeful the popular holiday dinner can return next winter.

More information about how COVID-19 precautions have affected properties and services of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission may be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://outdoornebraska.org/" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603900386262.png" alt="Photo: NEBRASKAland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo: NEBRASKAland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>MERRIMAN, Neb. – Bowring Ranch State Historical Park has canceled its annual holiday event, Christmas at the Bowring, because of the potential spread of coronavirus.Diane Burress, park superintendent, said the Sandhills park is planning events for 2021 and is hopeful the popular holiday dinner can return next winter.More information about how COVID-19 precautions have affected properties and services of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission may be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://outdoornebraska.org/" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org</a>.

Bowring Ranch Christmas event canceled

Scotty and Mayoral candidate Brandon Kelliher sit down for their weekly conversation. This week's topic is infrastructure, namely streets and roads.&nbsp;

Scotty and Mayoral candidate Brandon Kelliher sit down for their weekly conversation. This week's topic is infrastructure, namely streets and roads.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Brandon Kelliher for Mayor" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/tdef5-f0a3ef?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: Brandon Kelliher for Mayor

Nursing students Joseph Polasek, of North Platte, and Jalissa Falcon, of Maxwell, train on a new birthing simulator at North Platte Community College.

Victoria® S2220, is the world’s most life-like childbirth simulator. Her eyes blink and track objects, and she gives students opportunities to perform advanced cardiac life support simulations.

Victoria can mimic a variety of birthing simulations to include complicated labor and delivery experiences that nursing students might not otherwise get in a clinical setting.

She came with three different abdomens. Those allow students to experience C-sections, ultrasounds and fetal heart monitoring. As a non-pregnant patient, Victoria can also be used for medical surgical simulation.

Victoria came with a baby simulator, Super Tory®&nbsp;S2220. Among other things, Super Tory can cry, grunt with visible mouth movement, extend her arms and legs and go into seizures and convulsions. Super Tory’s chest rises and falls as she breathes, and her breakthrough respiratory system accurately responds to mechanical ventilation support like a real newborn.

This year’s nursing students are the first to practice on the new simulators, whose use was delayed because of COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603899634346.png" alt="Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCNursing students Joseph Polasek, of North Platte, and Jalissa Falcon, of Maxwell, train on a new birthing simulator at North Platte Community College.Victoria® S2220, is the world’s most life-like childbirth simulator. Her eyes blink and track objects, and she gives students opportunities to perform advanced cardiac life support simulations.Victoria can mimic a variety of birthing simulations to include complicated labor and delivery experiences that nursing students might not otherwise get in a clinical setting.She came with three different abdomens. Those allow students to experience C-sections, ultrasounds and fetal heart monitoring. As a non-pregnant patient, Victoria can also be used for medical surgical simulation.Victoria came with a baby simulator, Super Tory®&nbsp;S2220. Among other things, Super Tory can cry, grunt with visible mouth movement, extend her arms and legs and go into seizures and convulsions. Super Tory’s chest rises and falls as she breathes, and her breakthrough respiratory system accurately responds to mechanical ventilation support like a real newborn.This year’s nursing students are the first to practice on the new simulators, whose use was delayed because of COVID-19.

Simulators provide real-world experience for nursing students

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - No. 9 Wisconsin has canceled its game at Nebraska on Saturday and paused all team activities for at least seven days after a dozen people within the program including coach Paul Chryst tested positive for COVID-19.

School officials said athletic director Barry Alvarez and chancellor Rebecca Blank made the decision in consultation with Big Ten officials. The game with Nebraska won't be rescheduled.

"This morning I received the news that I had tested positive via a PCR test I took yesterday," Chryst said in a statement. "I informed my staff and the team this morning and am currently isolating at home. I had not been experiencing any symptoms and feel good as of this morning."

Wisconsin said six players and six staff members had tested positive over the last five days.

The announcement followed reports that starting quarterback Graham Mertz had tested positive twice - which would require him to sit out at least 21 days under Big Ten protocols - and that backup quarterback Chase Wolf had tested positive at least once.

Wisconsin already had lost 2019 starting quarterback Jack Coan to foot surgery that has left him out indefinitely. The Badgers' only other scholarship quarterback is junior Danny Vanden Boom.

"I am disappointed for our players and coaching staff who put so much into preparing to play each week," Chryst said. "But the safety of everyone in our program has to be our top priority and I support the decision made to pause our team activities."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563213481558.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MADISON, Wis. (AP) - No. 9 Wisconsin has canceled its game at Nebraska on Saturday and paused all team activities for at least seven days after a dozen people within the program including coach Paul Chryst tested positive for COVID-19.School officials said athletic director Barry Alvarez and chancellor Rebecca Blank made the decision in consultation with Big Ten officials. The game with Nebraska won't be rescheduled."This morning I received the news that I had tested positive via a PCR test I took yesterday," Chryst said in a statement. "I informed my staff and the team this morning and am currently isolating at home. I had not been experiencing any symptoms and feel good as of this morning."Wisconsin said six players and six staff members had tested positive over the last five days.The announcement followed reports that starting quarterback Graham Mertz had tested positive twice - which would require him to sit out at least 21 days under Big Ten protocols - and that backup quarterback Chase Wolf had tested positive at least once.Wisconsin already had lost 2019 starting quarterback Jack Coan to foot surgery that has left him out indefinitely. The Badgers' only other scholarship quarterback is junior Danny Vanden Boom."I am disappointed for our players and coaching staff who put so much into preparing to play each week," Chryst said. "But the safety of everyone in our program has to be our top priority and I support the decision made to pause our team activities."

Wisconsin cancels Nebraska game; Chryst tests positive

Today is Wednesday, Oct. 28, the 302nd day of 2020. There are 64 days left in the year. 

On Oct. 28, 1962, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev informed the United States that he had ordered the dismantling of missile bases in Cuba; in return, the U.S. secretly agreed to remove nuclear missiles from U.S. installations in Turkey. 

In 1858, Rowland Hussey Macy opened his first New York store at Sixth Avenue and 14th Street in Manhattan. 

In 1886, the Statue of Liberty, a gift from the people of France, was dedicated in New York Harbor by President Grover Cleveland. 

In 1922, fascism came to Italy as Benito Mussolini took control of the government. 

In 1940, Italy invaded Greece during World War II. 

In 1976, former Nixon aide John D. Ehrlichman entered a federal prison camp in Safford, Arizona, to begin serving his sentence for Watergate-related convictions (he was released in April 1978). 

In 1980, President Jimmy Carter and Republican presidential nominee Ronald Reagan faced off in a nationally broadcast, 90-minute debate in Cleveland. 

In 1996, Richard Jewell, cleared of committing the Olympic park bombing, held a news conference in Atlanta in which he thanked his mother for standing by him and lashed out at reporters and investigators who'd depicted him as the bomber, who turned out to be Eric Rudolph.

In 2001, the families of people killed in the September 11 terrorist attack gathered in New York for a memorial service filled with prayer and song. 

In 2002, American diplomat Laurence Foley was assassinated in front of his house in Amman, Jordan, in the first such attack on a U.S. diplomat in decades. A student flunking out of the University of Arizona nursing school shot three of his professors to death, then killed himself. 

In 2012, airlines canceled more than 7,000 flights in advance of Hurricane Sandy, transit systems in New York, Philadelphia and Washington were shut down, and forecasters warned the New York area could see an 11-foot wall of water.

In 2013, Penn State said it would pay $59.7 million to 26 young men over claims of child sexual abuse at the hands of former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky. 

In 2016, the FBI dropped what amounted to a political bomb on the Clinton campaign when it announced it was investigating whether emails on a device belonging to disgraced ex-congressman Anthony Weiner, the estranged husband of one of Clinton's closest aides, Huma Abedin, might contain classified information.

Ten years ago: Investigators with the president's oil spill commission said tests performed before the deadly blowout of BP's oil well in the Gulf of Mexico should have raised doubts about the cement used to seal the well, but that the company and its cementing contractor used it anyway. (The cement mix's failure to prevent oil and gas from entering the well was cited by BP and others as one of the causes of the accident.) Caroline Wozniacki wrapped up the year-end No. 1 ranking after rallying to beat Francesca Schiavone 3-6, 6-1, 6-1 at the WTA Championships in Doha, Qatar. Stage and screen actor James MacArthur, who played "Danno" in the original version of television's "Hawaii Five-0," died in Jacksonville, Florida, at age 72.

Five years ago: Dennis Hastert pleaded guilty before a federal judge in Chicago to evading banking laws in a hush-money scheme. (A court filing later revealed allegations of sexual abuse against Hastert by at least four former students from his days as a high school wrestling coach; Hastert ended up being sentenced to 15 months in prison.) Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio fought for control of the Republicans' establishment wing in the third GOP debate, this one in Boulder, Colorado, as insurgent outsiders Donald Trump and Ben Carson defended the seriousness of their White House bids. An unmanned Army surveillance blimp broke loose from its mooring in Maryland and floated over Pennsylvania for hours with two fighter jets on its tail, triggering blackouts across the countryside as it dragged its tether across power lines.

One year ago: A wildfire swept through the star-studded hills of Los Angeles, destroying several large homes and forcing LeBron James and thousands of others to flee; a blaze in Northern California wine country exploded in size. The S&amp;P 500 closed at an all-time high for the first time in months; the Nasdaq composite was also near a record.

Today's Birthdays: Jazz singer Cleo Laine is 93. Actor Joan Plowright is 91. Actor Jane Alexander is 81. Actor Dennis Franz is 76. Actor Telma Hopkins is 72. Caitlyn Jenner is 71. Actor Annie Potts is 68. Songwriter/producer Desmond Child is 67. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is 65. The former president of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is 64. Rock musician Stephen Morris (New Order) is 63. Country/gospel singer-musician Ron Hemby (The Buffalo Club) is 62. Rock singer-musician William Reid (The Jesus &amp; Mary Chain) is 62. Actor Mark Derwin is 60. Actor Daphne Zuniga is 58. Actor Lauren Holly is 57. Talk show host-comedian-actor Sheryl Underwood is 57. Actor Jami Gertz is 55. Actor Chris Bauer is 54. Actor-comedian Andy Richter is 54. Actor Julia Roberts is 53. Country singer-musician Caitlin Cary is 52. Actor Jeremy Davies is 51. Singer Ben Harper is 51. Country singer Brad Paisley is 48. Actor Joaquin Phoenix is 46. Actor Gwendoline Christie is 42. Singer Justin Guarini (TV: "American Idol") is 42. Pop singer Brett Dennen is 41. Rock musician Dave Tirio (Plain White T's) is 41. Actor Charlie Semine is 40. Actor Matt Smith is 38. Actor Finn Wittrock is 36. Actor Troian Bellisario is 35. Singer/rapper Frank Ocean is 33. Actor Lexi Ainsworth (TV: "General Hospital") is 28. Actor Nolan Gould is 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Wednesday, Oct. 28, the 302nd day of 2020. There are 64 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Oct. 28, 1962, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev informed the United States that he had ordered the dismantling of missile bases in Cuba; in return, the U.S. secretly agreed to remove nuclear missiles from U.S. installations in Turkey. On this date: In 1858, Rowland Hussey Macy opened his first New York store at Sixth Avenue and 14th Street in Manhattan. In 1886, the Statue of Liberty, a gift from the people of France, was dedicated in New York Harbor by President Grover Cleveland. In 1922, fascism came to Italy as Benito Mussolini took control of the government. In 1940, Italy invaded Greece during World War II. In 1976, former Nixon aide John D. Ehrlichman entered a federal prison camp in Safford, Arizona, to begin serving his sentence for Watergate-related convictions (he was released in April 1978). In 1980, President Jimmy Carter and Republican presidential nominee Ronald Reagan faced off in a nationally broadcast, 90-minute debate in Cleveland. In 1996, Richard Jewell, cleared of committing the Olympic park bombing, held a news conference in Atlanta in which he thanked his mother for standing by him and lashed out at reporters and investigators who'd depicted him as the bomber, who turned out to be Eric Rudolph.In 2001, the families of people killed in the September 11 terrorist attack gathered in New York for a memorial service filled with prayer and song. In 2002, American diplomat Laurence Foley was assassinated in front of his house in Amman, Jordan, in the first such attack on a U.S. diplomat in decades. A student flunking out of the University of Arizona nursing school shot three of his professors to death, then killed himself. In 2012, airlines canceled more than 7,000 flights in advance of Hurricane Sandy, transit systems in New York, Philadelphia and Washington were shut down, and forecasters warned the New York area could see an 11-foot wall of water.In 2013, Penn State said it would pay $59.7 million to 26 young men over claims of child sexual abuse at the hands of former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky. In 2016, the FBI dropped what amounted to a political bomb on the Clinton campaign when it announced it was investigating whether emails on a device belonging to disgraced ex-congressman Anthony Weiner, the estranged husband of one of Clinton's closest aides, Huma Abedin, might contain classified information.Ten years ago: Investigators with the president's oil spill commission said tests performed before the deadly blowout of BP's oil well in the Gulf of Mexico should have raised doubts about the cement used to seal the well, but that the company and its cementing contractor used it anyway. (The cement mix's failure to prevent oil and gas from entering the well was cited by BP and others as one of the causes of the accident.) Caroline Wozniacki wrapped up the year-end No. 1 ranking after rallying to beat Francesca Schiavone 3-6, 6-1, 6-1 at the WTA Championships in Doha, Qatar. Stage and screen actor James MacArthur, who played "Danno" in the original version of television's "Hawaii Five-0," died in Jacksonville, Florida, at age 72.Five years ago: Dennis Hastert pleaded guilty before a federal judge in Chicago to evading banking laws in a hush-money scheme. (A court filing later revealed allegations of sexual abuse against Hastert by at least four former students from his days as a high school wrestling coach; Hastert ended up being sentenced to 15 months in prison.) Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio fought for control of the Republicans' establishment wing in the third GOP debate, this one in Boulder, Colorado, as insurgent outsiders Donald Trump and Ben Carson defended the seriousness of their White House bids. An unmanned Army surveillance blimp broke loose from its mooring in Maryland and floated over Pennsylvania for hours with two fighter jets on its tail, triggering blackouts across the countryside as it dragged its tether across power lines. One year ago: A wildfire swept through the star-studded hills of Los Angeles, destroying several large homes and forcing LeBron James and thousands of others to flee; a blaze in Northern California wine country exploded in size. The S&amp;P 500 closed at an all-time high for the first time in months; the Nasdaq composite was also near a record. Today's Birthdays: Jazz singer Cleo Laine is 93. Actor Joan Plowright is 91. Actor Jane Alexander is 81. Actor Dennis Franz is 76. Actor Telma Hopkins is 72. Caitlyn Jenner is 71. Actor Annie Potts is 68. Songwriter/producer Desmond Child is 67. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is 65. The former president of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is 64. Rock musician Stephen Morris (New Order) is 63. Country/gospel singer-musician Ron Hemby (The Buffalo Club) is 62. Rock singer-musician William Reid (The Jesus &amp; Mary Chain) is 62. Actor Mark Derwin is 60. Actor Daphne Zuniga is 58. Actor Lauren Holly is 57. Talk show host-comedian-actor Sheryl Underwood is 57. Actor Jami Gertz is 55. Actor Chris Bauer is 54. Actor-comedian Andy Richter is 54. Actor Julia Roberts is 53. Country singer-musician Caitlin Cary is 52. Actor Jeremy Davies is 51. Singer Ben Harper is 51. Country singer Brad Paisley is 48. Actor Joaquin Phoenix is 46. Actor Gwendoline Christie is 42. Singer Justin Guarini (TV: "American Idol") is 42. Pop singer Brett Dennen is 41. Rock musician Dave Tirio (Plain White T's) is 41. Actor Charlie Semine is 40. Actor Matt Smith is 38. Actor Finn Wittrock is 36. Actor Troian Bellisario is 35. Singer/rapper Frank Ocean is 33. Actor Lexi Ainsworth (TV: "General Hospital") is 28. Actor Nolan Gould is 22.

Today in History -- Oct. 28

The North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team has started a collection for fire departments battling wildfires in Colorado.

The team will be accepting donations of water, Gatorade, Powerade, granola bars and fruit snacks through Nov. 5.

The softball team is known for finding ways to make a difference, not just in the local community, but also in the hometowns of its players.

In this case, one of the team members, Morganne Brown, of Milliken, Colo., has a firefighter father whose department has been called up to respond to the fires.

“The team wanted to do its part to help out,” said NPCC Head Women’s Softball Coach Janelle Higgins. “The goal is to fill the back of a pickup and another car with supplies.”

Those interested in donating items can do so by contacting any softball player, or by arranging a drop-off time with Higgins at (515) 419-5801 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:higginsj@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">higginsj@mpcc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603878106830.png" alt="NPCC Softball Team" />
 <figcaption>NPCC Softball Team</figcaption>
 </figure>The North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team has started a collection for fire departments battling wildfires in Colorado.The team will be accepting donations of water, Gatorade, Powerade, granola bars and fruit snacks through Nov. 5.The softball team is known for finding ways to make a difference, not just in the local community, but also in the hometowns of its players.In this case, one of the team members, Morganne Brown, of Milliken, Colo., has a firefighter father whose department has been called up to respond to the fires.“The team wanted to do its part to help out,” said NPCC Head Women’s Softball Coach Janelle Higgins. “The goal is to fill the back of a pickup and another car with supplies.”Those interested in donating items can do so by contacting any softball player, or by arranging a drop-off time with Higgins at (515) 419-5801 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:higginsj@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">higginsj@mpcc.edu</a>.

NPCC softball team launches drive for Colorado fire departments

Amanda M. Speichert of North Platte is one of 30 Nebraska lawyers chosen for the 2020 Class of Fellows by the Nebraska State Bar Foundation, Foundation President Steve Guenzel has announced.

Thirty Fellows are chosen each year based on their dedication to improving the administration of justice, leadership in the legal profession, civic service and integrity, and support of the Foundation.

Speichert is an associate in the Lindemeier Law Office and an attorney in the Lincoln County Public Defender’s Office. She is chair of the Juvenile Law Section of the Nebraska State Bar Association and secretary of the North Platte-Lincoln County team of Through the Eyes of a Child. She is past president of the Lincoln County Bar Association.

She is a member of the Juvenile Justice Coalition of the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice, a member of the Nebraska Criminal Defense Attorney Association and a member of Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity. She also is a certified trainer in the National Juvenile Defender Training Immersion Program (JTIP).

In the community, Speichert serves on the Midwest Nebraska Drug Court Board and is co-chair of the Community Planning Team. She formerly served on Connection Homeless Shelter Board and the Legacy Home for Women Board. She was an adjunct professor at Mid Plains Community College and has been a coach for Mock Trial teams at North Platte High School and St. Patrick’s High School. She was a member of the Child Advocacy Center Task Force and the Capital Campaign Committee for North Platte-Lincoln County.

On the national level, she is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Juvenile Defenders Center and the National Association of Counsel for Children.

Among the awards she has received are the following: Above and Beyond Award, Nebraska Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health; Outstanding Advocate Award, Foster Care Review Board; and Women of Achievement in Government/Law, Lincoln County.

Speichert received a B.S. in 1998 from Northwest Missouri State University and her law degree in 2001 from Creighton University School of Law.&nbsp;

<a>The Nebraska State Bar Foundation was incorporated in 1963 as a 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization to serve as the philanthropic arm of Nebraska’s legal profession.&nbsp;The Foundation is dedicated to serving the citizens of Nebraska and the legal profession through innovative and creative programs directed toward the improvement of the administration of justice and the fulfillment of the American vision of equal justice for all.</a>

Learn more about the Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebarfnd.org/" target="_blank">www.nebarfnd.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603877945715.png" alt="Amanda M. Speichert (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Amanda M. Speichert (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Amanda M. Speichert of North Platte is one of 30 Nebraska lawyers chosen for the 2020 Class of Fellows by the Nebraska State Bar Foundation, Foundation President Steve Guenzel has announced.Thirty Fellows are chosen each year based on their dedication to improving the administration of justice, leadership in the legal profession, civic service and integrity, and support of the Foundation.Speichert is an associate in the Lindemeier Law Office and an attorney in the Lincoln County Public Defender’s Office. She is chair of the Juvenile Law Section of the Nebraska State Bar Association and secretary of the North Platte-Lincoln County team of Through the Eyes of a Child. She is past president of the Lincoln County Bar Association.She is a member of the Juvenile Justice Coalition of the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice, a member of the Nebraska Criminal Defense Attorney Association and a member of Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity. She also is a certified trainer in the National Juvenile Defender Training Immersion Program (JTIP).In the community, Speichert serves on the Midwest Nebraska Drug Court Board and is co-chair of the Community Planning Team. She formerly served on Connection Homeless Shelter Board and the Legacy Home for Women Board. She was an adjunct professor at Mid Plains Community College and has been a coach for Mock Trial teams at North Platte High School and St. Patrick’s High School. She was a member of the Child Advocacy Center Task Force and the Capital Campaign Committee for North Platte-Lincoln County.On the national level, she is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Juvenile Defenders Center and the National Association of Counsel for Children.Among the awards she has received are the following: Above and Beyond Award, Nebraska Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health; Outstanding Advocate Award, Foster Care Review Board; and Women of Achievement in Government/Law, Lincoln County.Speichert received a B.S. in 1998 from Northwest Missouri State University and her law degree in 2001 from Creighton University School of Law.&nbsp;<a>The Nebraska State Bar Foundation was incorporated in 1963 as a 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization to serve as the philanthropic arm of Nebraska’s legal profession.&nbsp;The Foundation is dedicated to serving the citizens of Nebraska and the legal profession through innovative and creative programs directed toward the improvement of the administration of justice and the fulfillment of the American vision of equal justice for all.</a>Learn more about the Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebarfnd.org/" target="_blank">www.nebarfnd.org</a>.

North Platte attorney chosen for 2020 Class of Fellows by Bar Foundation

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (NSP)-A new police K9 has officially joined the ranks of the Nebraska State Patrol. The newest NSP Police Service Dog (PSD) is Fahn, named to honor Trooper Dale Fahnholz, who passed away suddenly on March 1, 2020.

“Our PSD Unit is made up of incredibly talented canines and the troopers who handle them,” said Captain Jason Scott, Commander of NSP Special Operations. “Fahn joins a diligent team that serves the entire state of Nebraska.”

Fahn and his handler, Sergeant Workman, have been through months of training to earn certification. Fahn is a dual-purpose PSD, certified for narcotics detection and patrolling functions. Fahn will be stationed in Grand Island and patrol the same troop area in which Trooper Fahnholz spent the majority of his career.

The NSP PSD Unit currently consists of nine canine-handler teams stationed throughout the state. The dogs are purchased through generous public donations made to the Nebraska State Patrol Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603853563070.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (NSP)-A new police K9 has officially joined the ranks of the Nebraska State Patrol. The newest NSP Police Service Dog (PSD) is Fahn, named to honor Trooper Dale Fahnholz, who passed away suddenly on March 1, 2020.“Our PSD Unit is made up of incredibly talented canines and the troopers who handle them,” said Captain Jason Scott, Commander of NSP Special Operations. “Fahn joins a diligent team that serves the entire state of Nebraska.”Fahn and his handler, Sergeant Workman, have been through months of training to earn certification. Fahn is a dual-purpose PSD, certified for narcotics detection and patrolling functions. Fahn will be stationed in Grand Island and patrol the same troop area in which Trooper Fahnholz spent the majority of his career.The NSP PSD Unit currently consists of nine canine-handler teams stationed throughout the state. The dogs are purchased through generous public donations made to the Nebraska State Patrol Foundation.

New NSP K9 named for Trooper Dale Fahnholz

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported another increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19.

On Tuesday, WCDHD said there have been 125 new positive cases of the virus since Friday, October 23.

According to WCDHD, there are now 543 active cases in their jurisdiction. Since March, there have been 1,073 total cases with 11 "COVID related deaths."

WCDHD says there are currently 22 people hospitalized with positive cases of COVID-19.&nbsp;308 are isolating at home and 213 cases are still under investigation, according to WCDHD.

For more information, visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation">WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported another increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19.On Tuesday, WCDHD said there have been 125 new positive cases of the virus since Friday, October 23.According to WCDHD, there are now 543 active cases in their jurisdiction. Since March, there have been 1,073 total cases with 11 "COVID related deaths."WCDHD says there are currently 22 people hospitalized with positive cases of COVID-19.&nbsp;308 are isolating at home and 213 cases are still under investigation, according to WCDHD.For more information, visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/CaseInformation">WCDHD COVID-19 Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603853013254.png" alt="covid update october 27 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update october 27 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

WCDHD reports 125 new COVID cases in jurisdiction since Friday

LINCOLN, Neb. – Deer season is approaching and many hunters can safely purchase permits from the comfort of their own homes.

Rather than travel to a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission permitting office, hunters can purchase deer permits online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjcuMjk0ODQzNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.7VDJtArFpUSneJXFsDnXx8DXBkXnvxX8W8sdID0u1WI/s/497221905/br/87490089717-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. By going to that site, they also can monitor the number of remaining permits by clicking on Permits, and then Remaining Permits.

The Nebraska firearm deer season is Nov. 14-22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559644784556.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Deer season is approaching and many hunters can safely purchase permits from the comfort of their own homes.Rather than travel to a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission permitting office, hunters can purchase deer permits online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjcuMjk0ODQzNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.7VDJtArFpUSneJXFsDnXx8DXBkXnvxX8W8sdID0u1WI/s/497221905/br/87490089717-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. By going to that site, they also can monitor the number of remaining permits by clicking on Permits, and then Remaining Permits.The Nebraska firearm deer season is Nov. 14-22.

Game and Parks reminds hunters that deer permits can be purchased online

Scotty and John Hales, candidate for Mayor of North Platte, talk about the North Platte Rec Center and what should be done with it.

Scotty and John Hales, candidate for Mayor of North Platte, talk about the North Platte Rec Center and what should be done with it.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: John Hales for Mayor" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/swrty-f08b57?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: John Hales for Mayor

Over the past four years, President Donald J. Trump has adopted a tough, principled stand against China’s communist regime.&nbsp; During his time in the White House, President Trump has been unafraid to call out the Chinese Communist Party and the government—the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—for its responsibility for the global pandemic, human rights abuses, and unfair trade practices.

Ever since the coronavirus spread around the world, President Trump has demanded that world leaders hold the PRC accountable for the severity of the pandemic.&nbsp; Experts agree that evidence points to Wuhan, China as the source of the virus.&nbsp; Instead of ringing alarm bells about the initial outbreak, Chinese Communist Party officials covered up the spread of the virus.&nbsp; Their secrecy deprived the international community of crucial information needed to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp; To hide the true source of the virus, the PRC even circulated a bizarre conspiracy theory accusing the U.S. Army of having introduced it to Wuhan.&nbsp; President Trump hasn’t let the Chinese government off the hook for the way it suppressed information that allowed the coronavirus to spread around the globe. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As it became apparent that the virus was a growing threat, President Trump took quick action to halt travel from China to the U.S. on January 31, 2020.&nbsp; This early decision slowed the spread of the virus in the United States and bought valuable time for health officials to prepare for it.&nbsp; Yet at the time, many criticized the President’s travel ban.&nbsp; The day after the White House announced the ban, former Vice President Joe Biden rashly accused President Trump of being motivated by “hysteria.”&nbsp; Given what is now commonly known about the virus, it’s clear that President Trump’s wise foresight to stop travel from China saved American lives.

Even as the world deals with the coronavirus, President Trump has been an outspoken critic of the PRC’s record on human rights, denouncing it for oppressing minorities in Mainland China and for violating basic political freedoms in Hong Kong.&nbsp; In July 2020, the Trump Administration imposed sanctions on high-ranking officials within China’s ruling Communist Party for their role in the persecution of Uighurs, Kazakhs, and other minority groups.&nbsp; The PRC has forced up to one million Uighurs to live in concentration camps, where they are indoctrinated with PRC propaganda, made to do hard labor, and reportedly undergo forced sterilizations.&nbsp; In addition to the mass detentions, the PRC is engaging in intrusive surveillance of minority groups to identify and root out dissent.&nbsp; Other countries are following President Trump’s leadership in denouncing this vile treatment, as just last week the Canadian parliament urged sanctions against the PRC.

While placing ethnic minorities in camps, the PRC has stepped up religious persecution as well.&nbsp; According to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, “Religious freedom conditions in China continue to deteriorate. &nbsp;The communist Chinese government has created a high-tech surveillance state, utilizing facial recognition and artificial intelligence to monitor and harass Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falon Gong, and other religions.”&nbsp; The Trump Administration has repeatedly condemned the PRC’s religious repression. &nbsp;On June 2nd, President Trump signed an executive order to ramp up U.S. efforts to promote religious freedom as a key American foreign policy priority.

Even though Hong Kong is supposed to retain a high level of autonomy for decades to come, the PRC has also cracked down on political dissent in the territory.&nbsp; Under the premise of protecting “national security,” the Communist regime enacted a law in June to enable its agents to round up and imprison critics of China’s one-party Communist government.&nbsp; In response to these abuses, President Trump signed an executive order in July to place sanctions on government officials in Hong Kong who undermine political rights.&nbsp; The President also eliminated tariff exemptions given to Hong Kong in 1992, now that its government has come under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party headquartered in Beijing.

While confronting the PRC’s assault on human rights, the President has also exposed communist China’s unfair trade practices. &nbsp;In recent years, the PRC has engaged in cyberattacks, intellectual property theft, and espionage all with the aim of gaining the upper hand over the U.S.&nbsp; The PRC has stolen everything from trade secrets to confidential military information to university research.&nbsp; According to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the FBI opens a China-related intellectual property theft case about one every 10 hours.&nbsp; In 2018, President Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods as a wakeup call to the PRC that its misbehavior will no longer be tolerated.&nbsp; The Trump administration has also correctly sought to address China’s overreach in official bodies such as the World Trade Organization, calling on the body to strip China of its developing country status.&nbsp; In August 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department declared that China’s government has also been manipulating currency values to gain an unfair economic edge. &nbsp;The Chinese government has been actively working to undermine the United States for years.&nbsp; President Trump recognizes the challenge and is committed to countering the PRC’s aggression.&nbsp;

With over a billion people and the world’s second-largest economy, China has the potential to be a great trading partner for the United States, but it needs to take meaningful actions, such as respecting human rights and fully implementing the Phase One trade deal it inked with President Trump.&nbsp; According to recent reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, significant progress has been made on this front.&nbsp; U.S. corn sales to China are at an all-time high.&nbsp; Soybean sales are the strongest they’ve ever been.&nbsp; And beef exports are triple what they were in 2017.&nbsp; These results are a testament to President Trump’s leadership and the success of his foreign policy towards China.

If you have questions about the future of U.S.-China relations, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Nebraskans want to expand trade and share our prosperity.&nbsp; We know, however, that the best way to grow the Good Life is to stick to our principles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593122410940.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsOver the past four years, President Donald J. Trump has adopted a tough, principled stand against China’s communist regime.&nbsp; During his time in the White House, President Trump has been unafraid to call out the Chinese Communist Party and the government—the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—for its responsibility for the global pandemic, human rights abuses, and unfair trade practices.Ever since the coronavirus spread around the world, President Trump has demanded that world leaders hold the PRC accountable for the severity of the pandemic.&nbsp; Experts agree that evidence points to Wuhan, China as the source of the virus.&nbsp; Instead of ringing alarm bells about the initial outbreak, Chinese Communist Party officials covered up the spread of the virus.&nbsp; Their secrecy deprived the international community of crucial information needed to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp; To hide the true source of the virus, the PRC even circulated a bizarre conspiracy theory accusing the U.S. Army of having introduced it to Wuhan.&nbsp; President Trump hasn’t let the Chinese government off the hook for the way it suppressed information that allowed the coronavirus to spread around the globe. &nbsp;&nbsp;As it became apparent that the virus was a growing threat, President Trump took quick action to halt travel from China to the U.S. on January 31, 2020.&nbsp; This early decision slowed the spread of the virus in the United States and bought valuable time for health officials to prepare for it.&nbsp; Yet at the time, many criticized the President’s travel ban.&nbsp; The day after the White House announced the ban, former Vice President Joe Biden rashly accused President Trump of being motivated by “hysteria.”&nbsp; Given what is now commonly known about the virus, it’s clear that President Trump’s wise foresight to stop travel from China saved American lives.Even as the world deals with the coronavirus, President Trump has been an outspoken critic of the PRC’s record on human rights, denouncing it for oppressing minorities in Mainland China and for violating basic political freedoms in Hong Kong.&nbsp; In July 2020, the Trump Administration imposed sanctions on high-ranking officials within China’s ruling Communist Party for their role in the persecution of Uighurs, Kazakhs, and other minority groups.&nbsp; The PRC has forced up to one million Uighurs to live in concentration camps, where they are indoctrinated with PRC propaganda, made to do hard labor, and reportedly undergo forced sterilizations.&nbsp; In addition to the mass detentions, the PRC is engaging in intrusive surveillance of minority groups to identify and root out dissent.&nbsp; Other countries are following President Trump’s leadership in denouncing this vile treatment, as just last week the Canadian parliament urged sanctions against the PRC.While placing ethnic minorities in camps, the PRC has stepped up religious persecution as well.&nbsp; According to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, “Religious freedom conditions in China continue to deteriorate. &nbsp;The communist Chinese government has created a high-tech surveillance state, utilizing facial recognition and artificial intelligence to monitor and harass Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falon Gong, and other religions.”&nbsp; The Trump Administration has repeatedly condemned the PRC’s religious repression. &nbsp;On June 2nd, President Trump signed an executive order to ramp up U.S. efforts to promote religious freedom as a key American foreign policy priority.Even though Hong Kong is supposed to retain a high level of autonomy for decades to come, the PRC has also cracked down on political dissent in the territory.&nbsp; Under the premise of protecting “national security,” the Communist regime enacted a law in June to enable its agents to round up and imprison critics of China’s one-party Communist government.&nbsp; In response to these abuses, President Trump signed an executive order in July to place sanctions on government officials in Hong Kong who undermine political rights.&nbsp; The President also eliminated tariff exemptions given to Hong Kong in 1992, now that its government has come under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party headquartered in Beijing.While confronting the PRC’s assault on human rights, the President has also exposed communist China’s unfair trade practices. &nbsp;In recent years, the PRC has engaged in cyberattacks, intellectual property theft, and espionage all with the aim of gaining the upper hand over the U.S.&nbsp; The PRC has stolen everything from trade secrets to confidential military information to university research.&nbsp; According to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the FBI opens a China-related intellectual property theft case about one every 10 hours.&nbsp; In 2018, President Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods as a wakeup call to the PRC that its misbehavior will no longer be tolerated.&nbsp; The Trump administration has also correctly sought to address China’s overreach in official bodies such as the World Trade Organization, calling on the body to strip China of its developing country status.&nbsp; In August 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department declared that China’s government has also been manipulating currency values to gain an unfair economic edge. &nbsp;The Chinese government has been actively working to undermine the United States for years.&nbsp; President Trump recognizes the challenge and is committed to countering the PRC’s aggression.&nbsp;With over a billion people and the world’s second-largest economy, China has the potential to be a great trading partner for the United States, but it needs to take meaningful actions, such as respecting human rights and fully implementing the Phase One trade deal it inked with President Trump.&nbsp; According to recent reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, significant progress has been made on this front.&nbsp; U.S. corn sales to China are at an all-time high.&nbsp; Soybean sales are the strongest they’ve ever been.&nbsp; And beef exports are triple what they were in 2017.&nbsp; These results are a testament to President Trump’s leadership and the success of his foreign policy towards China.If you have questions about the future of U.S.-China relations, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Nebraskans want to expand trade and share our prosperity.&nbsp; We know, however, that the best way to grow the Good Life is to stick to our principles.

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