9.11.2020 NPHS Football vs Kearney - Livestream

News broke early today that once again North Platte will be without a week 3 football game.&nbsp;

The news is still coming in, keep checking in with this post for updates throughout the day.&nbsp;

Here is the statement from NPHS Activities director Jordan Cudney:&nbsp;

According to the Omaha World Herald:&nbsp;

News broke early today that once again North Platte will be without a week 3 football game.&nbsp;The news is still coming in, keep checking in with this post for updates throughout the day.&nbsp;Here is the statement from NPHS Activities director Jordan Cudney:&nbsp; <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">🚨SCHEDULE UPDATE 🚨 See below for changes to the varsity football game tonight. <a href="https://t.co/o7XkCDIWk0">pic.twitter.com/o7XkCDIWk0</a>&mdash; NPHS_Activities (@NPHS_Activities) <a href="https://twitter.com/NPHS_Activities/status/1304458849613570048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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</div>According to the Omaha World Herald:&nbsp; <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">BW had busses loaded ready to head to North Platte for their football game tonight. NP was informed this morning that they needed to do additional contact tracing and that resulted in more players being quarantined.&mdash; MikeSautterOWH (@MikeSautterOWH) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeSautterOWH/status/1304455627079647233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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NPHS Football: Game off....again

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Great Plains Health is proud to now offer expert consultations and ongoing care for patients with complex and chronic gastrointestinal conditions with triple board-certified and fellowship trained, gastroenterologist Dr. Jeffrey Cloud.

The clinic opened in August and is located at Great Plains Health General Surgery, Centennial Park Medical Building, 500 West Leota, Suite 120, North Platte, NE 69101. Dr. Cloud will be holding clinic days in North Platte on a monthly basis.

“Adding this service to our community, shows our ongoing commitment to serving the people of our region with the best possible care close to home,” said Great Plains Health CEO, Mel McNea. “This service is unique to our area and means that patients no longer have to drive great distances to receive gastroenterology care; they can get it right here in North Platte.”

Dr. Cloud is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Gastroenterology. He attended medical school at U.T. Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX, and residency at Parkland Hospital / U.T. Southwestern, Dallas, TX. Dr. Cloud also completed fellowships in infectious disease at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, and in gastroenterology at Univ. of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, VA.

Complex conditions being treated include colon polyps, Crohn’s disease, diverticulosis, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), irritable bowel syndrome, liver and biliary disease and rectal bleeding and ulcerative colitis

For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Cloud, please call 308.568.3700.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599831836911.png" alt="Dr. Jeffrey Cloud" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jeffrey Cloud</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Great Plains Health is proud to now offer expert consultations and ongoing care for patients with complex and chronic gastrointestinal conditions with triple board-certified and fellowship trained, gastroenterologist Dr. Jeffrey Cloud.The clinic opened in August and is located at Great Plains Health General Surgery, Centennial Park Medical Building, 500 West Leota, Suite 120, North Platte, NE 69101. Dr. Cloud will be holding clinic days in North Platte on a monthly basis.“Adding this service to our community, shows our ongoing commitment to serving the people of our region with the best possible care close to home,” said Great Plains Health CEO, Mel McNea. “This service is unique to our area and means that patients no longer have to drive great distances to receive gastroenterology care; they can get it right here in North Platte.”Dr. Cloud is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Gastroenterology. He attended medical school at U.T. Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX, and residency at Parkland Hospital / U.T. Southwestern, Dallas, TX. Dr. Cloud also completed fellowships in infectious disease at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, and in gastroenterology at Univ. of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, VA.Complex conditions being treated include colon polyps, Crohn’s disease, diverticulosis, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), irritable bowel syndrome, liver and biliary disease and rectal bleeding and ulcerative colitisFor more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Cloud, please call 308.568.3700.

Great Plains Health now offering care for complex and chronic gastrointestinal conditions

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Patriot Day, which is celebrated on September 11, 2020:

“On Patriot Day, we remember the Americans who perished in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and Flight 93.&nbsp; We also commemorate the heroism of the first responders and other citizens who courageously risked their lives to save their fellow Americans.”&nbsp;

“No one old enough to remember 9/11 will ever forget that day.&nbsp; In celebrating Patriot Day, we make sure our children know the story of September 11th&nbsp;and gain an appreciation for the men and women who bravely responded to the attack.&nbsp; As we recall their selfless sacrifice, let’s commit to putting others first and seeking to foster greater peace so our communities and families can grow and flourish.”

Flags are at half-staff across the state this week to honor the passing of Lincoln Police Department Investigator Mario Herrera, and they will remain at half-staff on Friday in observance of Patriot Day.

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Patriot Day, which is celebrated on September 11, 2020:“On Patriot Day, we remember the Americans who perished in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and Flight 93.&nbsp; We also commemorate the heroism of the first responders and other citizens who courageously risked their lives to save their fellow Americans.”&nbsp;“No one old enough to remember 9/11 will ever forget that day.&nbsp; In celebrating Patriot Day, we make sure our children know the story of September 11th&nbsp;and gain an appreciation for the men and women who bravely responded to the attack.&nbsp; As we recall their selfless sacrifice, let’s commit to putting others first and seeking to foster greater peace so our communities and families can grow and flourish.”Flags are at half-staff across the state this week to honor the passing of Lincoln Police Department Investigator Mario Herrera, and they will remain at half-staff on Friday in observance of Patriot Day.

Gov. Ricketts issues Patriot Day statement

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported four new confirmed cases in Lincoln County on Thursday.

Officials say all of the cases are from Lincoln County and under investigation.

Two cases are from 9/9/2020 and two cases are from 9/10/2020, according to WCDHD.

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

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported four new confirmed cases in Lincoln County on Thursday.Officials say all of the cases are from Lincoln County and under investigation.Two cases are from 9/9/2020 and two cases are from 9/10/2020, according to WCDHD.After further investigation, one case previously identified as a resident of the WCDHD jurisdiction was transferred to the appropriate health department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599790282563.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599789566796.png" alt="As of September 10, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of September 10, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>

WCDHD reports 4 new COVID cases in Lincoln County on Thursday, remove 1 from positive count

North Platte Police Call Log (September 9-10, 2020)


The risk dial moved from a 2.35 down to a 2.19 this week, which
remains within the elevated risk level. There were changes in the
following variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:

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

WCDHD has added the qualitative and
objective data for each variable to the Risk Dial website page. WCDHD
has assembled a committee of public health workers who have a vast
knowledge of present situations surrounding the current impact
COVID-19 has on our community. Each week the committee members are
provided the objective data as reference. They compare this data with
their knowledge of current situations to determine qualitative
scores. The average of the qualitative scores is then averaged with
the objective data to provide the overall score. 


To better understand the data that
contribute to the risk dial, please find the document titled
‘Understanding the Data in the Risk Dial’ located on the WCDHD
website on the risk dial page. Please see helpful links at the end of
this media release.

The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial
provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central
District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow),
elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and
national guidance published by top public health experts and is
coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work,
and in the community.

The parameters for each category are as
follows: 


The following data is used when
determining dial placement:&nbsp;

The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is reviewed by the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted to: the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">WCDHD website,</a>&nbsp;the WCDHD Facebook page, as well as the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">dashboard</a>:&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599789498279.png" alt="As of September 10, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of September 10, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>WCDHD News Release
The risk dial moved from a 2.35 down to a 2.19 this week, which
remains within the elevated risk level. There were changes in the
following variables that contributed to the movement in the dial:We had decreases in the following
(please reference the WCDHD risk dial website page for additional
information):<ol>
 <li>Measure ID R1: Weekly positivity
	rate (from a 3 to a 2)
	</li><li>Measure ID R3: Case rate per
	million (from a 4 to a 3.5)
</li>
 </ol>We had an increase in the following:<ol>
 <li>Measure ID R10: Contact tracing
	(from a 2.5 to a 3)
</li>
 </ol>WCDHD has added the qualitative and
objective data for each variable to the Risk Dial website page. WCDHD
has assembled a committee of public health workers who have a vast
knowledge of present situations surrounding the current impact
COVID-19 has on our community. Each week the committee members are
provided the objective data as reference. They compare this data with
their knowledge of current situations to determine qualitative
scores. The average of the qualitative scores is then averaged with
the objective data to provide the overall score. 
To better understand the data that
contribute to the risk dial, please find the document titled
‘Understanding the Data in the Risk Dial’ located on the WCDHD
website on the risk dial page. Please see helpful links at the end of
this media release.The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial
provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central
District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow),
elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and
national guidance published by top public health experts and is
coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work,
and in the community.The parameters for each category are as
follows: 
<ol>
 <li>Green: 0-0.5
	</li><li>Yellow: 0.6-1.9
	</li><li>Orange: 2.0-3.4
	</li><li>Red: 3.5-4.0
</li>
 </ol>The following data is used when
determining dial placement:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Overall Positivity Rate
	</li><li>Weekly Positivity Rate
	</li><li>Trajectory of Cases in the last 14
	days
	</li><li>Cases per Million per Day
	</li><li>Average Daily Hospitalization
	</li><li>ICU Availability
	</li><li>Ventilator&nbsp;Availability&nbsp;
	</li><li>Community Spread
	</li><li>Testing Availability
	</li><li>Average Testing Turnaround Time
	</li><li>Contact Tracing
	</li><li>Individuals Affected
	</li><li>Medical &amp; Surgical Bed
	Availability 
	
	</li><li>Availability of Reliable and Valid
	Antibody Testing
	</li><li>Availability of effective
	treatment&nbsp;modalities&nbsp;for COVID-19&nbsp;
	</li><li>An effective vaccine that is
	widely available&nbsp;
	</li><li>Being able to easily obtain PPE
	through standard supply chains
</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 to: the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">WCDHD website,</a>&nbsp;the WCDHD Facebook page, as well as the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">dashboard</a>:&nbsp;<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">COVID-19 Risk Dial</a>

WCDHD moves Community Risk Dial down slightly, risk remains 'Elevated'

Scotty C talks with Amanda from the American Red Cross, Trooper Nate Veal with the Nebraska State Patrol and Deputy City Fire Marshal Mike McConnell about the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive happening this Friday, September 11 at the Ramada Inn in North Platte. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for more details.

Scotty C talks with Amanda from the American Red Cross, Trooper Nate Veal with the Nebraska State Patrol and Deputy City Fire Marshal Mike McConnell about the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive happening this Friday, September 11 at the Ramada Inn in North Platte. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for more details.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Battle of the Badges Blood Drive" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/qsskf-eb18d5?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: Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - After months of bickering, accusations and apologies, Nebraska Democrats again named their candidate for U.S. Senate Thursday, and to no one's surprise, he isn't the Democrat on the ballot.

Omaha activist and professor Preston Love Jr. is the Democrats' third choice to compete against Omaha baker and fellow Democrat Chris Janicek, who won the primary and is on the ballot against Republican Sen. Ben Sasse. Love will have to compete as a write-in candidate because Janicek is pledging to stay in the race as the official nominee despite pressure from party leaders to drop out after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/db5b8e0b714d76827262eb0381574312" target="_blank">he sent lewd texts about a campaign staffer</a>.

Love agreed to run after the Democrats' initial write-in candidate, former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9bd9b6cfb7ac4163ee5ad452e2a85401" target="_blank">dropped out just days</a>&nbsp;after announcing his bid. The state party's first choice,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/05ca94364f601d99482f5d476a1c8cbb" target="_blank">Omaha mental health practitioner Alisha Shelton</a>, is prohibited from running as a write-in candidate under Nebraska's "sore loser" law because she lost to Janicek in the primary.

Love said he is realistic about his chances against an incumbent when joining the race less than two months before Election Day, but he said he hopes his candidacy will boost voter turnout in Omaha and help other Democratic candidates.

"It's a hard narrative to develop a win scenario. But I am going to run as if I had all the money that I need and all the Love that I need and that we give people an alternative," Love said.

Party leaders can't remove Janicek's name from the ballot without his consent, and the deadline to do that has passed.

The contract staffer he wrote about was accidentally included in Janicek's message and filed a complaint with the party. Janicek has said he apologized to the woman in a phone call, in person, and in writing, and that she accepted his apology. The woman has disputed Janicek's account, saying she doesn't accept his apology and maintains that he should drop out.

Sasse was always heavily favored to win in November in GOP-dominated Nebraska. Democrats make up just 29% of registered voters and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2da07dc4abad3da8b59091d1d6ebe503" target="_blank">haven't won a statewide election in more than a decade</a>.

"Democrats in Nebraska running for statewide office have an uphill battle on a good day," former Nebraska Democratic Party executive director Paul Landow said.

This Senate race will make it harder for Democrats to become competitive again in the state.

"In the short term, it makes it more difficult to win the Senate race. In the long term, it makes it more difficult to recruit candidates in general," said Landow, who is now a political science professor at the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

One of Democrats' last significant victories in the state came in 2008 when Barack Obama won the Omaha-based congressional district and secured a single Electoral College vote in his bid for president under Nebraska's unusual system. Before that, Democrat Ben Nelson served two terms as governor in the 1990s and was twice elected to the U.S. Senate and Bob Kerrey was elected governor and to the U.S. Senate in the 1980s and 1990s.

Janicek's campaign isn't receiving any support from the Democratic Party. Chairwoman Jane Kleeb said Thursday that Love offers voters a better option than either Sasse or Janicek.

Love is a University of Nebraska-Omaha professor who teaches Black studies and politics. He also is a longtime activist in northeastern Omaha, and he led the Black Votes Matter nonprofit in Omaha encouraging more people to vote.

Janicek ran for Senate in 2018, but lost in the Democratic primary. He said he chose to run after having a heart attack in 2015 and getting slapped with more than $100,000 in medical bills that his insurance only partially covered.

By JOSH FUNK-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - After months of bickering, accusations and apologies, Nebraska Democrats again named their candidate for U.S. Senate Thursday, and to no one's surprise, he isn't the Democrat on the ballot.Omaha activist and professor Preston Love Jr. is the Democrats' third choice to compete against Omaha baker and fellow Democrat Chris Janicek, who won the primary and is on the ballot against Republican Sen. Ben Sasse. Love will have to compete as a write-in candidate because Janicek is pledging to stay in the race as the official nominee despite pressure from party leaders to drop out after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/db5b8e0b714d76827262eb0381574312" target="_blank">he sent lewd texts about a campaign staffer</a>.Love agreed to run after the Democrats' initial write-in candidate, former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9bd9b6cfb7ac4163ee5ad452e2a85401" target="_blank">dropped out just days</a>&nbsp;after announcing his bid. The state party's first choice,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/05ca94364f601d99482f5d476a1c8cbb" target="_blank">Omaha mental health practitioner Alisha Shelton</a>, is prohibited from running as a write-in candidate under Nebraska's "sore loser" law because she lost to Janicek in the primary.Love said he is realistic about his chances against an incumbent when joining the race less than two months before Election Day, but he said he hopes his candidacy will boost voter turnout in Omaha and help other Democratic candidates."It's a hard narrative to develop a win scenario. But I am going to run as if I had all the money that I need and all the Love that I need and that we give people an alternative," Love said.Party leaders can't remove Janicek's name from the ballot without his consent, and the deadline to do that has passed.The contract staffer he wrote about was accidentally included in Janicek's message and filed a complaint with the party. Janicek has said he apologized to the woman in a phone call, in person, and in writing, and that she accepted his apology. The woman has disputed Janicek's account, saying she doesn't accept his apology and maintains that he should drop out.Sasse was always heavily favored to win in November in GOP-dominated Nebraska. Democrats make up just 29% of registered voters and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2da07dc4abad3da8b59091d1d6ebe503" target="_blank">haven't won a statewide election in more than a decade</a>."Democrats in Nebraska running for statewide office have an uphill battle on a good day," former Nebraska Democratic Party executive director Paul Landow said.This Senate race will make it harder for Democrats to become competitive again in the state."In the short term, it makes it more difficult to win the Senate race. In the long term, it makes it more difficult to recruit candidates in general," said Landow, who is now a political science professor at the University of Nebraska-Omaha.One of Democrats' last significant victories in the state came in 2008 when Barack Obama won the Omaha-based congressional district and secured a single Electoral College vote in his bid for president under Nebraska's unusual system. Before that, Democrat Ben Nelson served two terms as governor in the 1990s and was twice elected to the U.S. Senate and Bob Kerrey was elected governor and to the U.S. Senate in the 1980s and 1990s.Janicek's campaign isn't receiving any support from the Democratic Party. Chairwoman Jane Kleeb said Thursday that Love offers voters a better option than either Sasse or Janicek.Love is a University of Nebraska-Omaha professor who teaches Black studies and politics. He also is a longtime activist in northeastern Omaha, and he led the Black Votes Matter nonprofit in Omaha encouraging more people to vote.Janicek ran for Senate in 2018, but lost in the Democratic primary. He said he chose to run after having a heart attack in 2015 and getting slapped with more than $100,000 in medical bills that his insurance only partially covered.

Nebraska Democrats name third pick to replace Senate nominee

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will end nearly all of his state's social-distancing restrictions on Monday even as the number of new coronavirus cases has trended upward over the last few months.

The new rules will still limit the size of large indoor gatherings, such as concerts, meeting halls and theaters, but will drop all other state-imposed mandates in favor of voluntary guidelines, as other conservative states have done.

"We are loosening the restrictions further on Sept. 14," Ricketts said at a news conference.

State officials said they made the decision based on the availability of hospital beds and ventilators, in keeping with the Republican governor's goal of not overwhelming medical facilities.

"The goal has always been to protect hospital capacity, and capacity remains stable," said Ricketts spokesman Taylor Gage.

Nebraska's hospitals have 36% of their regular beds, 31% of their intensive care unit beds and 81% of their ventilators available, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online tracking portal</a>. Those numbers have changed little in the last few months.

The new rules will apply statewide except in Lancaster County, which includes the state capital of of Lincoln, home to the University of Nebraska's flagship campus. They've already been in effect in 27 of Nebraska's 93 counties, but those areas are overwhelmingly rural and have seen few confirmed cases.

Nebraska will also allow smaller indoor facilities, such as bars, restaurants, churches, gyms and hair salons, to operate with no formal restrictions. State guidance still recommends limiting crowd sizes, but those guidelines aren't enforceable.

Under the new rules, larger indoor venues such as concert halls can allow gatherings of up to 75% of their rated capacity, up from 50%. Additionally, Ricketts said people who want a gathering of 500 people or more will have to get approval from their local public health director.

The state's shift won't affect mask requirements in Omaha and Lincoln. Both cities still require people to wear face coverings in most indoor spaces when they aren't able to stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) apart.

Lincoln-Lancaster County Public Health Director Pat Lopez has said her county won't ease its restrictions this month because of a recent increase in cases driven by returning college students and the reopening of Lincoln Public Schools, the state's second-largest school district.

"This is the time not only to stay the course, but also to redouble our efforts in Lancaster County," Lopez said. "We need to do what is best for our community to overcome the impacts of this virus."

Nebraska has confirmed 36,917 coronavirus cases and 421 deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's tracking portal.

Nebraska saw a sharp spike in cases on Tuesday and Wednesday, but that was the result of a glitch that slowed the reporting of test results. For several days before that, the state's public health data system wasn't receiving results even though laboratories were processing tests.

Even so, the number of confirmed cases has trended upward since early July. Nebraska ranks 15th highest in the rate of positive cases as of this week, according to data&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/testing/tracker/overview" target="_blank">collected by Johns Hopkins University</a>.

Neighboring Iowa and South Dakota have seen even higher rates. On Sunday, the White House coronavirus task force sent a report saying Iowa had the third-highest rate of new cases in the country over the previous week. A week earlier, Iowa had the nation's steepest rate of new cases.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will end nearly all of his state's social-distancing restrictions on Monday even as the number of new coronavirus cases has trended upward over the last few months.The new rules will still limit the size of large indoor gatherings, such as concerts, meeting halls and theaters, but will drop all other state-imposed mandates in favor of voluntary guidelines, as other conservative states have done."We are loosening the restrictions further on Sept. 14," Ricketts said at a news conference.State officials said they made the decision based on the availability of hospital beds and ventilators, in keeping with the Republican governor's goal of not overwhelming medical facilities."The goal has always been to protect hospital capacity, and capacity remains stable," said Ricketts spokesman Taylor Gage.Nebraska's hospitals have 36% of their regular beds, 31% of their intensive care unit beds and 81% of their ventilators available, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online tracking portal</a>. Those numbers have changed little in the last few months.The new rules will apply statewide except in Lancaster County, which includes the state capital of of Lincoln, home to the University of Nebraska's flagship campus. They've already been in effect in 27 of Nebraska's 93 counties, but those areas are overwhelmingly rural and have seen few confirmed cases.Nebraska will also allow smaller indoor facilities, such as bars, restaurants, churches, gyms and hair salons, to operate with no formal restrictions. State guidance still recommends limiting crowd sizes, but those guidelines aren't enforceable.Under the new rules, larger indoor venues such as concert halls can allow gatherings of up to 75% of their rated capacity, up from 50%. Additionally, Ricketts said people who want a gathering of 500 people or more will have to get approval from their local public health director.The state's shift won't affect mask requirements in Omaha and Lincoln. Both cities still require people to wear face coverings in most indoor spaces when they aren't able to stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) apart.Lincoln-Lancaster County Public Health Director Pat Lopez has said her county won't ease its restrictions this month because of a recent increase in cases driven by returning college students and the reopening of Lincoln Public Schools, the state's second-largest school district."This is the time not only to stay the course, but also to redouble our efforts in Lancaster County," Lopez said. "We need to do what is best for our community to overcome the impacts of this virus."Nebraska has confirmed 36,917 coronavirus cases and 421 deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's tracking portal.Nebraska saw a sharp spike in cases on Tuesday and Wednesday, but that was the result of a glitch that slowed the reporting of test results. For several days before that, the state's public health data system wasn't receiving results even though laboratories were processing tests.Even so, the number of confirmed cases has trended upward since early July. Nebraska ranks 15th highest in the rate of positive cases as of this week, according to data&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/testing/tracker/overview" target="_blank">collected by Johns Hopkins University</a>.Neighboring Iowa and South Dakota have seen even higher rates. On Sunday, the White House coronavirus task force sent a report saying Iowa had the third-highest rate of new cases in the country over the previous week. A week earlier, Iowa had the nation's steepest rate of new cases.

Nebraska to end nearly all social distancing restrictions

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska voters won't get the chance to legalize medical marijuana this year after the state Supreme Court ruled Thursday that the measure set to appear on the November ballot is unconstitutional.

The court's ruling was a win for social conservatives, including Gov. Pete Ricketts, who argued that the state shouldn't legalize a drug that isn't approved by federal regulators.

The court also ruled that a measure to allow casino gambling can appear on the ballot, despite opposition from Ricketts and other conservatives who say it will contribute to gambling addiction and bankruptcies. The rulings came one day before the legal deadline to certify both measures for the general ballot.

Justices concluded that the medical marijuana proposal violated Nebraska's "single subject rule" for ballot measures, which bars activists from bunching multiple issues into a single yes-or-no question for voters to address. Specifically, they took issue with provisions that would allow people to use marijuana while also produce it in-state, among other issues.

"If voters are to intelligently adopt a state policy with regard to medicinal cannabis use, they must first be allowed to decide that issue alone, unencumbered by other subjects," the court said in its opinion.

State Sen. Adam Morfeld, of Lincoln, a leading figure in the medical marijuana ballot campaign, said the campaign was deeply disappointed with the ruling but vowed to continue fighting for legalization. He said backers will revive the issue with a new petition measure and a bill in the state legislature.

Backers of both causes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/82b334f235a843ed90ad58550fff2aaf" target="_blank">announced in July</a>&nbsp;that they had gathered more than enough signatures to submit the issues to voters. They launched the campaign after Nebraska lawmakers repeatedly rejected measures to legalize casino gambling and medical marijuana.

Gambling advocates also tried a ballot drive in 2016 but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0a5ac264e43d449b8003714deef6778c" target="_blank">failed to gather</a>&nbsp;enough signatures. Evnen said organizers of this year's drive collected the required number of signatures to qualify. But he said letters submitted to him from the attorneys of gambling opponents pointed out what he considers to be misleading ballot language.

The gambling drive was spearheaded by horse-racing advocates and Ho-Chunk Inc., the economic development arm of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, which poured millions of dollars into the effort.

The three measures would have changed Nebraska's constitution to allow gambling and created two laws to regulate and tax the industry. If passed, some of the tax revenue would be funneled into a state property tax credit.

Evnen took issue with one of the ballot measures that said casino gambling would only be allowed at state-licensed racetracks. He said the statement was "materially misleading" to voters because the measure would also allow casinos on tribal lands in Nebraska, even if they don't have a racetrack.

The court rejected Evnen's argument, noting that the measures are broken into three separate items that voters can consider individually.

GRANT SCHULTEAssociated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska voters won't get the chance to legalize medical marijuana this year after the state Supreme Court ruled Thursday that the measure set to appear on the November ballot is unconstitutional.The court's ruling was a win for social conservatives, including Gov. Pete Ricketts, who argued that the state shouldn't legalize a drug that isn't approved by federal regulators.The court also ruled that a measure to allow casino gambling can appear on the ballot, despite opposition from Ricketts and other conservatives who say it will contribute to gambling addiction and bankruptcies. The rulings came one day before the legal deadline to certify both measures for the general ballot.Justices concluded that the medical marijuana proposal violated Nebraska's "single subject rule" for ballot measures, which bars activists from bunching multiple issues into a single yes-or-no question for voters to address. Specifically, they took issue with provisions that would allow people to use marijuana while also produce it in-state, among other issues."If voters are to intelligently adopt a state policy with regard to medicinal cannabis use, they must first be allowed to decide that issue alone, unencumbered by other subjects," the court said in its opinion.State Sen. Adam Morfeld, of Lincoln, a leading figure in the medical marijuana ballot campaign, said the campaign was deeply disappointed with the ruling but vowed to continue fighting for legalization. He said backers will revive the issue with a new petition measure and a bill in the state legislature."This does not end here," he said.Backers of both causes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/82b334f235a843ed90ad58550fff2aaf" target="_blank">announced in July</a>&nbsp;that they had gathered more than enough signatures to submit the issues to voters. They launched the campaign after Nebraska lawmakers repeatedly rejected measures to legalize casino gambling and medical marijuana.Gambling advocates also tried a ballot drive in 2016 but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0a5ac264e43d449b8003714deef6778c" target="_blank">failed to gather</a>&nbsp;enough signatures. Evnen said organizers of this year's drive collected the required number of signatures to qualify. But he said letters submitted to him from the attorneys of gambling opponents pointed out what he considers to be misleading ballot language.The gambling drive was spearheaded by horse-racing advocates and Ho-Chunk Inc., the economic development arm of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, which poured millions of dollars into the effort.The three measures would have changed Nebraska's constitution to allow gambling and created two laws to regulate and tax the industry. If passed, some of the tax revenue would be funneled into a state property tax credit.Evnen took issue with one of the ballot measures that said casino gambling would only be allowed at state-licensed racetracks. He said the statement was "materially misleading" to voters because the measure would also allow casinos on tribal lands in Nebraska, even if they don't have a racetrack.The court rejected Evnen's argument, noting that the measures are broken into three separate items that voters can consider individually.

Nebraska court strips medical marijuana measure from ballot

<a href="https://news.unl.edu/newsrooms/today/article/online-celebration-to-cap-december-commencement/">From the UNL Newsroom</a>

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s December commencement is shifting to an online celebration due to&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;concerns.

The decision mirrors changes made to the university’s commencement exercises in May and August. Along with the online celebration, the university is also allowing all May, August and December 2020 graduates the opportunity to participate in any future commencement ceremony with special&nbsp;recognition.

The online celebration for graduate and undergraduate students will feature a livestream at 9 a.m. Dec. 19 (the same day undergraduate exercises were previously scheduled). Details about the speaker and program will be announced. Final details regarding College of Law commencement, which is usually held separately from undergraduate and graduate ceremonies, are&nbsp;pending.

All December 2020 graduates — including those from the College of Law — will receive a Go Big Grad Celebration box that includes items to commemorate their&nbsp;achievement.

The final day for Huskers to apply to receive a degree during December commencement is Sept. 11.&nbsp;<a href="https://registrar.unl.edu/student/commencement/application/">Learn more&nbsp;here.</a>

Information about the changes to December 2020 commencement and how to access the livestream will be announced on the university’s&nbsp;<a href="https://commencement.unl.edu/">commencement webpage</a>.

<a href="https://news.unl.edu/newsrooms/today/article/online-celebration-to-cap-december-commencement/">From the UNL Newsroom</a>The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s December commencement is shifting to an online celebration due to&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;concerns.The decision mirrors changes made to the university’s commencement exercises in May and August. Along with the online celebration, the university is also allowing all May, August and December 2020 graduates the opportunity to participate in any future commencement ceremony with special&nbsp;recognition.The online celebration for graduate and undergraduate students will feature a livestream at 9 a.m. Dec. 19 (the same day undergraduate exercises were previously scheduled). Details about the speaker and program will be announced. Final details regarding College of Law commencement, which is usually held separately from undergraduate and graduate ceremonies, are&nbsp;pending.All December 2020 graduates — including those from the College of Law — will receive a Go Big Grad Celebration box that includes items to commemorate their&nbsp;achievement.The final day for Huskers to apply to receive a degree during December commencement is Sept. 11.&nbsp;<a href="https://registrar.unl.edu/student/commencement/application/">Learn more&nbsp;here.</a>Information about the changes to December 2020 commencement and how to access the livestream will be announced on the university’s&nbsp;<a href="https://commencement.unl.edu/">commencement webpage</a>.

UNL to hold 2020 December commencement online

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Cedar View Campground at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area was slated to close on Sept. 9, 2020 for upgrades to campground amenities. The campground will now temporarily close for public access beginning on Sept. 28, 2020 due to a delay in construction.

Cedar View Campground, located about 15 miles west of Kingsley Dam on Highway 92, will be available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis until Sept. 28. Upgrades to the campground will include the installation of a replacement shower and restroom facility and accessible campsites.

In the event that the campground may be re-opened safely during or between construction projects, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will send out a press release updating the public. Visitors wanting to camp at the park may contact the Lake McConaughy Park Headquarters at 308-284-8800 for up to date information.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Cedar View Campground at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area was slated to close on Sept. 9, 2020 for upgrades to campground amenities. The campground will now temporarily close for public access beginning on Sept. 28, 2020 due to a delay in construction.Cedar View Campground, located about 15 miles west of Kingsley Dam on Highway 92, will be available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis until Sept. 28. Upgrades to the campground will include the installation of a replacement shower and restroom facility and accessible campsites.In the event that the campground may be re-opened safely during or between construction projects, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will send out a press release updating the public. Visitors wanting to camp at the park may contact the Lake McConaughy Park Headquarters at 308-284-8800 for up to date information.

Cedar View Campground at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area will close temporarily Sept. 28

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599746958027.jpeg" alt="battle of the badges 2020.jpg" />
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Area law enforcement, firefighters face off in the 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive

KEARNEY, Neb.-The Kearney Police Department will once again be participating in the Pink Patch Project, joining approximately 390 Law Enforcement Agencies across the country, including 23 in Nebraska. The purpose of the Pink Patch Project is to increase public awareness about breast cancer and to raise funds for the fight against this disease.  

During the month of October, Officers of the Kearney Police Department will be demonstrating their support of breast cancer awareness by wearing pink KPD shoulder patches on their uniforms. The pink patches are intended to stimulate conversation within the community and to raise public awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment in the fight against breast cancer.   

The Kearney Police Department and our allied agencies: Nebraska State Patrol, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office &amp; UNK Police will have our uniquely designed Pink Shoulder Patches for sale at the front desk of the Law Enforcement Center during the months of September &amp; October, $10 each (Cash Only).  All proceeds will be donated to “Forever Pink Foundation”, a local charity that’s mission is to impact Kearney and the surrounding communities by providing focus, support, and resources to financially and emotionally assist those who are battling breast cancer. We have again partnered with Sayler Screen Printing and Hy-Vee for In-Store purchases of t-shirt and face masks or you can purchase the same merchandise at Sayler Screen Printing’s on-line store. We are thankful for the great local partnership and support from both Saylor and Hy Vee! Visit Kearney Police on Facebook for additional information and a link for on-line merchandise sales through Sayler Screen Printing.  

For more information about the Pink Patch Project, visit www.pinkpatchproject.com. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599685101487.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KEARNEY, Neb.-The Kearney Police Department will once again be participating in the Pink Patch Project, joining approximately 390 Law Enforcement Agencies across the country, including 23 in Nebraska. The purpose of the Pink Patch Project is to increase public awareness about breast cancer and to raise funds for the fight against this disease. During the month of October, Officers of the Kearney Police Department will be demonstrating their support of breast cancer awareness by wearing pink KPD shoulder patches on their uniforms. The pink patches are intended to stimulate conversation within the community and to raise public awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment in the fight against breast cancer. The Kearney Police Department and our allied agencies: Nebraska State Patrol, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office &amp; UNK Police will have our uniquely designed Pink Shoulder Patches for sale at the front desk of the Law Enforcement Center during the months of September &amp; October, $10 each (Cash Only). All proceeds will be donated to “Forever Pink Foundation”, a local charity that’s mission is to impact Kearney and the surrounding communities by providing focus, support, and resources to financially and emotionally assist those who are battling breast cancer. We have again partnered with Sayler Screen Printing and Hy-Vee for In-Store purchases of t-shirt and face masks or you can purchase the same merchandise at Sayler Screen Printing’s on-line store. We are thankful for the great local partnership and support from both Saylor and Hy Vee! Visit Kearney Police on Facebook for additional information and a link for on-line merchandise sales through Sayler Screen Printing. For more information about the Pink Patch Project, visit www.pinkpatchproject.com.

Kearney police to participate in 'Pink Patch Project'

LINCOLN, Neb. – Hunters will take to the field Sept. 15 for the start of the fall turkey season. Nebraska, one of the nation’s top turkey hunting destinations, has the birds, permits, and opportunities for a great outdoor adventure.

Turkey hunting can be combined with big game, upland game, waterfowl or fishing for a true Nebraska mixed-bag outdoor adventure.

There are plenty of other reasons to undertake a Nebraska turkey hunt:

• Wild turkeys may be found in all 93 counties.

• Turkey hunters in Nebraska enjoy a long fall season (ends Jan. 31, 2021), and high success and satisfaction rates. Areas to hunt turkeys are plentiful in Nebraska, with 289 wildlife management areas across the state and more than 350,000 acres of walk-in public access to private land in the Open Fields and Waters Program.

• Permits may be purchased over the counter, are unlimited in quantity, and are valid statewide. Youth permits for hunters age 15 and under are $8. Fall hunters can buy up to two turkey permits. Qualifying landowners also are eligible for a reduced price landowner permit. Permits allow hunters the option of harvesting with either a bow or shotgun. The bag limit for a fall permit is two turkeys of either sex. Purchase permits at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.9VqE8ctGq1iYClgs-PG7ihQux-WgSz-xy_rFdcdCAIg/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

• Help is easy to find. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi93aWxkdHVya2V5LyJ9.9-mAXtli3grDA_gNg53Q9PmLzq8CWVyLYjTItxrpBog/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/wildturkey</a>&nbsp;or see the 2020 Turkey Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.xTs6JFukc0mbKqNgCCjXL9y1c0op3Xd02uYKJx9aepk/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>&nbsp;for more information. Find more than 1.2 million acres of publicly accessible Nebraska lands in the 2020-2021 Public Access Atlas, available at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission offices and service centers and wherever hunt and fish permits are sold. It also is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.3qHHphE3Nf90uUHGwgtHy9Z4UpZgEdbcjdi94qs9jpE/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>.

• Turkey hunters are encouraged to introduce someone to hunting by sharing their passion and taking a beginner afield for a chance to win prizes in the Take ’em Hunting challenge. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9UYWtlRW1IdW50aW5nLyJ9.tOYoFNP4jEQwulsIMeow_Xp3mw_fd2O2zDBc3dMjBPM/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/TakeEmHunting</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Hunters will take to the field Sept. 15 for the start of the fall turkey season. Nebraska, one of the nation’s top turkey hunting destinations, has the birds, permits, and opportunities for a great outdoor adventure.Turkey hunting can be combined with big game, upland game, waterfowl or fishing for a true Nebraska mixed-bag outdoor adventure.There are plenty of other reasons to undertake a Nebraska turkey hunt:• Wild turkeys may be found in all 93 counties.• Turkey hunters in Nebraska enjoy a long fall season (ends Jan. 31, 2021), and high success and satisfaction rates. Areas to hunt turkeys are plentiful in Nebraska, with 289 wildlife management areas across the state and more than 350,000 acres of walk-in public access to private land in the Open Fields and Waters Program.• Permits may be purchased over the counter, are unlimited in quantity, and are valid statewide. Youth permits for hunters age 15 and under are $8. Fall hunters can buy up to two turkey permits. Qualifying landowners also are eligible for a reduced price landowner permit. Permits allow hunters the option of harvesting with either a bow or shotgun. The bag limit for a fall permit is two turkeys of either sex. Purchase permits at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.9VqE8ctGq1iYClgs-PG7ihQux-WgSz-xy_rFdcdCAIg/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.• Help is easy to find. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi93aWxkdHVya2V5LyJ9.9-mAXtli3grDA_gNg53Q9PmLzq8CWVyLYjTItxrpBog/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/wildturkey</a>&nbsp;or see the 2020 Turkey Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.xTs6JFukc0mbKqNgCCjXL9y1c0op3Xd02uYKJx9aepk/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>&nbsp;for more information. Find more than 1.2 million acres of publicly accessible Nebraska lands in the 2020-2021 Public Access Atlas, available at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission offices and service centers and wherever hunt and fish permits are sold. It also is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.3qHHphE3Nf90uUHGwgtHy9Z4UpZgEdbcjdi94qs9jpE/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>.• Turkey hunters are encouraged to introduce someone to hunting by sharing their passion and taking a beginner afield for a chance to win prizes in the Take ’em Hunting challenge. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MDkuMjY4MzU4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9UYWtlRW1IdW50aW5nLyJ9.tOYoFNP4jEQwulsIMeow_Xp3mw_fd2O2zDBc3dMjBPM/s/497221905/br/83423230289-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/TakeEmHunting</a>.

Make Nebraska a fall turkey hunting destination

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Three weeks into the 2020 football season, the North Platte High School football team is seeing their schedule impacted by COVID-19 for the first time.

The NPHS Activities Department announced Wednesday afternoon that a Kearney High School football player had tested positive for COVID-19. Kearney was slated to visit Bauer Field this Friday, September 11, for a rivalry matchup, but that is now a no-go.

School officials say they are looking at potential options for a replacement game, but no official decisions have been made at this time.

The Bulldogs are off to their first 2-0 start since the 2015 season.&nbsp;

NPHS is scheduled to travel to Lincoln next week (September 18) to take on Lincoln Northstar at Seacrest Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m with live coverage on-air at FM 98.1 and live video streaming at <a href="https://northplattepost.com/">www.northplattepost.com</a>.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Three weeks into the 2020 football season, the North Platte High School football team is seeing their schedule impacted by COVID-19 for the first time.The NPHS Activities Department announced Wednesday afternoon that a Kearney High School football player had tested positive for COVID-19. Kearney was slated to visit Bauer Field this Friday, September 11, for a rivalry matchup, but that is now a no-go.School officials say they are looking at potential options for a replacement game, but no official decisions have been made at this time.The Bulldogs are off to their first 2-0 start since the 2015 season.&nbsp;NPHS is scheduled to travel to Lincoln next week (September 18) to take on Lincoln Northstar at Seacrest Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m with live coverage on-air at FM 98.1 and live video streaming at <a href="https://northplattepost.com/">www.northplattepost.com</a>.

Friday Night Lights: NPHS vs. Kearney football game cancelled after Kearney player tests positive for COVID

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Carrier Enforcement Division will be participating in the 33rd&nbsp;annual International Roadcheck operation, starting today and running through Friday, September 11.

International Roadcheck is a campaign promoted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). This year’s campaign was previously scheduled for earlier this summer, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Travel patterns have changed this year, but our partners in the trucking industry have remained hard at work to keep food, cleaning products, medical supplies, and more moving across the country,” said Lieutenant Dan Doggett, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “International Roadcheck is a great opportunity for industry leaders and law enforcement to come together to place an emphasis on safety.”

For the 72-hour operation, Carrier Enforcement Troopers will perform high-visibility, high-volume inspections of large trucks and other commercial vehicles throughout the state. The enforcement emphasizes overall commercial vehicle safety, focusing on Level 1 inspections. Level 1 inspections include a comprehensive check of the vehicle and the driver.

International Roadcheck brings together dozens of law enforcement agencies across North America in the effort to keep road safe.

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Carrier Enforcement Division will be participating in the 33rd&nbsp;annual International Roadcheck operation, starting today and running through Friday, September 11.International Roadcheck is a campaign promoted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). This year’s campaign was previously scheduled for earlier this summer, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.“Travel patterns have changed this year, but our partners in the trucking industry have remained hard at work to keep food, cleaning products, medical supplies, and more moving across the country,” said Lieutenant Dan Doggett, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “International Roadcheck is a great opportunity for industry leaders and law enforcement to come together to place an emphasis on safety.”For the 72-hour operation, Carrier Enforcement Troopers will perform high-visibility, high-volume inspections of large trucks and other commercial vehicles throughout the state. The enforcement emphasizes overall commercial vehicle safety, focusing on Level 1 inspections. Level 1 inspections include a comprehensive check of the vehicle and the driver.International Roadcheck brings together dozens of law enforcement agencies across North America in the effort to keep road safe.###

NSP begins International Roadcheck effort

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has created a new state disaster response team to help local governments that are overwhelmed with massive wildfires and other disasters, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Wednesday.

The incident management team includes the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, the state fire marshal and the Nebraska state forester.

The team is designed to help organize state resources that are already in place and allow for faster response times. It will only respond if local governments request it, Ricketts said.

Western Nebraska saw a major wildfire in Banner County last month that burned more than 4,000 acres.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has created a new state disaster response team to help local governments that are overwhelmed with massive wildfires and other disasters, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Wednesday.The incident management team includes the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, the state fire marshal and the Nebraska state forester.The team is designed to help organize state resources that are already in place and allow for faster response times. It will only respond if local governments request it, Ricketts said.Western Nebraska saw a major wildfire in Banner County last month that burned more than 4,000 acres.

Nebraska creates new team to help respond to disasters

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599668750043.png" alt="Provided by the North Platte Police Deparment" />
 <figcaption>Provided by the North Platte Police Deparment</figcaption>
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North Platte Police Call Log (September 4-8, 2020)

LINCOLN, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) removed 73 impaired drivers from the road during the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign to close out the summer driving season.

“This summer driving season has been unique, but our troopers’ dedication to keeping Nebraska roads safe has been steadfast,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As we move into the final months of the year, we encourage all drivers to do their part as well. For whatever reason you’re traveling, drive safely and drive sober.”

The effort, which ran from August 21 through September 7, was part of a national campaign involving law enforcement agencies throughout the country. NSP’s portion of the effort was made possible thanks in part to the grant for $20,000 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

In addition to the 73 arrests for driving under the influence, troopers also issued citations for speeding (1,196), driving under suspension (97), no proof of insurance (54), open container (24), minor in possession (17), no seat belt (26), and improper child restraint (13). Troopers also performed 767 motorist assists for drivers in need of help on the road.

The campaign also marks the end of NSP’s “100 Days of Summer” annual campaign focused on safe driving during the summer months. Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend, troopers performed dozens of enforcement and education operations to keep Nebraska roads safe. Troopers assisted more than 4,700 motorists in need of help during the summer campaign and arrested 320 people for driving under the influence.

During the “100 Days of Summer”, excessive speeding continued to be an issue on Nebraska roads. Troopers issued 390 speeding citations for motorists exceeding 100 miles per hour. That figure is more than double the 192 such speeding citations during the same period last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594657717443.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) removed 73 impaired drivers from the road during the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign to close out the summer driving season.“This summer driving season has been unique, but our troopers’ dedication to keeping Nebraska roads safe has been steadfast,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As we move into the final months of the year, we encourage all drivers to do their part as well. For whatever reason you’re traveling, drive safely and drive sober.”The effort, which ran from August 21 through September 7, was part of a national campaign involving law enforcement agencies throughout the country. NSP’s portion of the effort was made possible thanks in part to the grant for $20,000 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.In addition to the 73 arrests for driving under the influence, troopers also issued citations for speeding (1,196), driving under suspension (97), no proof of insurance (54), open container (24), minor in possession (17), no seat belt (26), and improper child restraint (13). Troopers also performed 767 motorist assists for drivers in need of help on the road.The campaign also marks the end of NSP’s “100 Days of Summer” annual campaign focused on safe driving during the summer months. Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend, troopers performed dozens of enforcement and education operations to keep Nebraska roads safe. Troopers assisted more than 4,700 motorists in need of help during the summer campaign and arrested 320 people for driving under the influence.During the “100 Days of Summer”, excessive speeding continued to be an issue on Nebraska roads. Troopers issued 390 speeding citations for motorists exceeding 100 miles per hour. That figure is more than double the 192 such speeding citations during the same period last year.

Nebraska troopers arrest 73 impaired drivers during 'Drive Sober' campaign

It all started with a bug and a microscope.

“That was it. That’s what did it for me,” said Tammy Raman,&nbsp;<a>who works as a medical laboratory technician in Ottumwa, Iowa.&nbsp;</a>“I had never seen a microscope until a teacher showed me one. There was a bug under there, and I looked through and saw how big it was. From that point on, I knew I wanted to do something in the sciences.”

Exactly what - she wasn’t sure. She decided to take some time off after graduating from Ottumwa High School in 1982 to figure that out.

“I thought I might want to be a nurse, but then followed one around and decided that wasn’t for me,” Raman said. “Then I started thinking X-rays or lab tech. At some point, I came across materials advertising North Platte Community College and its Medical Laboratory Technician program. I decided the science part of that sounded neat, and they didn’t offer anything like that around me, so I packed up and moved to North Platte.”

She soon found there was more to the MLT program than looking at things under a microscope.

“I struggled at first,” Raman said. “I was a poor student and wasn’t prepared. I didn’t take much math or chemistry in high school because I didn’t like those classes, so had a lot of catching up to do. I went to my instructors several times and said, ‘This is too hard. I want to quit.’ They looked at me and replied, ‘It’s hard for everybody. Keep going’.”

And keep going, she did – one day at a time.

“With every semester, things got a little bit easier,” Raman said. “Fortunately, I had great instructors who were willing to help me.”

“I remember being in tears after one of his chemistry classes because I just didn’t understand the lesson, and I thought I was in over my head,” said Raman. “Mr. Gentry spent two hours of his personal time working with me until I knew what it was I was supposed to be learning. He built up my confidence and helped me succeed.”

Much of the success was also due to Raman’s own efforts. She threw herself into college – studying late into the night and taking on extra hours in labs to boost her grades. It paid off. She earned almost straight ‘A’s her sophomore year and scored high on her board exam.

By the time Raman graduated from NPCC in 1986, she wasn’t just confident in her classes, she was confident in her abilities in the workforce as well.

“One of the reasons I liked the med lab tech program at NPCC was because it prepared me to do so many different things in so many different areas,” Raman said. “When I went to job interviews, I actually knew what I was talking about. I don’t think I ever applied for a job that I didn’t get.”

That diversity is what Raman still loves about MLT today. From drawing blood for satellite medical clinics to processing collections at major hospitals and testing foods for genetically modified organisms – Raman’s training provided her with a variety of opportunities.

She currently works for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in an outpatient clinic in Ottumwa. She draws blood and subsequently conducts laboratory tests.

“It’s my favorite thing to do,” Raman said. “I love running tests, and I feel really at home in a hospital or clinic setting.”

Altogether, Raman has been doing lab work for 34 years. She’s witnessed a lot of changes in the industry since that time. The biggest evolutions were in the areas of technology, where data entry went from paper and pencil to electronic records, and personal protective equipment.

“It’s crazy how far things have come,” Raman said. “I started out before there was much of an awareness about HIV. At that time, people were eating, drinking and even smoking in the labs. Nobody wore gloves. That all changed with HIV, similar to the way COVID-19 is changing things now.”

She credits her instructors at NPCC for teaching her how to be open-minded and willing to adapt to the changes in addition to being organized, punctual and detail-oriented – all crucial components of being a medical laboratory technician.

“I have to take my job seriously and be on top of things,” Raman said. “Doctors are going to base diagnoses and prescriptions off the results I give them, and I always think that patient could be someone’s mother or sister or someone else who is loved. It’s up to me to make sure those results are accurate, and that’s been rewarding over the years. It makes me feel like I contribute to something.”

More information about the Med Lab Tech program at NPCC can be found online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/health-and-medical-occupations/medical-laboratory-technicians" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/health-and-medical-occupations/medical-laboratory-technicians</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599656504293.png" alt="Tammy Raman, medical laboratory technician for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, assists with The Clothesline Project, which helps veterans cope with military sexual trauma. Veterans write down an anonymous thought to give others courage. That note is then displayed on a “clothesline” for others to draw strength from." />
 <figcaption>Tammy Raman, medical laboratory technician for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, assists with The Clothesline Project, which helps veterans cope with military sexual trauma. Veterans write down an anonymous thought to give others courage. That note is then displayed on a “clothesline” for others to draw strength from.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCIt all started with a bug and a microscope.“That was it. That’s what did it for me,” said Tammy Raman,&nbsp;<a>who works as a medical laboratory technician in Ottumwa, Iowa.&nbsp;</a>“I had never seen a microscope until a teacher showed me one. There was a bug under there, and I looked through and saw how big it was. From that point on, I knew I wanted to do something in the sciences.”Exactly what - she wasn’t sure. She decided to take some time off after graduating from Ottumwa High School in 1982 to figure that out.“I thought I might want to be a nurse, but then followed one around and decided that wasn’t for me,” Raman said. “Then I started thinking X-rays or lab tech. At some point, I came across materials advertising North Platte Community College and its Medical Laboratory Technician program. I decided the science part of that sounded neat, and they didn’t offer anything like that around me, so I packed up and moved to North Platte.”She soon found there was more to the MLT program than looking at things under a microscope.“I struggled at first,” Raman said. “I was a poor student and wasn’t prepared. I didn’t take much math or chemistry in high school because I didn’t like those classes, so had a lot of catching up to do. I went to my instructors several times and said, ‘This is too hard. I want to quit.’ They looked at me and replied, ‘It’s hard for everybody. Keep going’.”And keep going, she did – one day at a time.“With every semester, things got a little bit easier,” Raman said. “Fortunately, I had great instructors who were willing to help me.”One of them was Boyd Gentry.“I remember being in tears after one of his chemistry classes because I just didn’t understand the lesson, and I thought I was in over my head,” said Raman. “Mr. Gentry spent two hours of his personal time working with me until I knew what it was I was supposed to be learning. He built up my confidence and helped me succeed.”Much of the success was also due to Raman’s own efforts. She threw herself into college – studying late into the night and taking on extra hours in labs to boost her grades. It paid off. She earned almost straight ‘A’s her sophomore year and scored high on her board exam.By the time Raman graduated from NPCC in 1986, she wasn’t just confident in her classes, she was confident in her abilities in the workforce as well.“One of the reasons I liked the med lab tech program at NPCC was because it prepared me to do so many different things in so many different areas,” Raman said. “When I went to job interviews, I actually knew what I was talking about. I don’t think I ever applied for a job that I didn’t get.”That diversity is what Raman still loves about MLT today. From drawing blood for satellite medical clinics to processing collections at major hospitals and testing foods for genetically modified organisms – Raman’s training provided her with a variety of opportunities.She currently works for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in an outpatient clinic in Ottumwa. She draws blood and subsequently conducts laboratory tests.“It’s my favorite thing to do,” Raman said. “I love running tests, and I feel really at home in a hospital or clinic setting.”Altogether, Raman has been doing lab work for 34 years. She’s witnessed a lot of changes in the industry since that time. The biggest evolutions were in the areas of technology, where data entry went from paper and pencil to electronic records, and personal protective equipment.“It’s crazy how far things have come,” Raman said. “I started out before there was much of an awareness about HIV. At that time, people were eating, drinking and even smoking in the labs. Nobody wore gloves. That all changed with HIV, similar to the way COVID-19 is changing things now.”She credits her instructors at NPCC for teaching her how to be open-minded and willing to adapt to the changes in addition to being organized, punctual and detail-oriented – all crucial components of being a medical laboratory technician.“I have to take my job seriously and be on top of things,” Raman said. “Doctors are going to base diagnoses and prescriptions off the results I give them, and I always think that patient could be someone’s mother or sister or someone else who is loved. It’s up to me to make sure those results are accurate, and that’s been rewarding over the years. It makes me feel like I contribute to something.”More information about the Med Lab Tech program at NPCC can be found online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/health-and-medical-occupations/medical-laboratory-technicians" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/health-and-medical-occupations/medical-laboratory-technicians</a>.

MLT training leads to lifetime of rewards for Iowa woman

LINCOLN, Neb.-A $1 million winning Mega Millions® prize from March will expire soon.

For the March 24 Mega Millions drawing, a $1 million winning ticket was sold at Mai's Market (formerly known as Schmick’s Market), 1340 West O Street in Lincoln. The ticket matched all five winning white ball numbers (02, 08, 16, 18, 31) from the March 24 drawing.

Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. This winning Mega Millions ticket expires Sunday, September 20. All Lottery offices will be closed, so the holder of this winning ticket must claim the prize by 5 p.m. CT on Friday, September 18.

Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed at Nebraska Lottery Headquarters, 137 NW 17th Street in Lincoln. Visit the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, for more information on claiming prizes.

The odds of winning $1 million playing Mega Millions are 1 in 12,607,306. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 24.

The Nebraska Lottery has offered Mega Millions since March 2010. Sales of Nebraska Mega Millions have exceeded $85 million and have helped raise a total of over $782 million for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

LINCOLN, Neb.-A $1 million winning Mega Millions® prize from March will expire soon.For the March 24 Mega Millions drawing, a $1 million winning ticket was sold at Mai's Market (formerly known as Schmick’s Market), 1340 West O Street in Lincoln. The ticket matched all five winning white ball numbers (02, 08, 16, 18, 31) from the March 24 drawing.Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. This winning Mega Millions ticket expires Sunday, September 20. All Lottery offices will be closed, so the holder of this winning ticket must claim the prize by 5 p.m. CT on Friday, September 18.Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed at Nebraska Lottery Headquarters, 137 NW 17th Street in Lincoln. Visit the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, for more information on claiming prizes.The odds of winning $1 million playing Mega Millions are 1 in 12,607,306. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 24.The Nebraska Lottery has offered Mega Millions since March 2010. Sales of Nebraska Mega Millions have exceeded $85 million and have helped raise a total of over $782 million for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

$1 million Powerball winning ticket sold in Lincoln expires soon

LINCOLN, Neb.-The University of Nebraska Lincoln has announced the suspension of several Greek chapters following large gatherings on Labor Day.

According to a statement from the University, several Greek chapters have been placed on "immediate temporary suspension" effective on Tuesday.

The houses that were suspended include; Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Xi Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, Phi Delta and Sigma Phi Epsilon.

The statement said the suspensions were based on reports, including photos and videos, that depicted large gatherings on house properties on the evening of September 7. University officials say the gatherings showed attendees with no face coverings or physical distancing, which is a violation of local COVID-19 health directives and university policy regarding COVID-19.

"I am very disappointed in the behavior that has now required us to take these measures," said Chancellor Ronnie Green. "This kind of activity placed the health of others and the community at risk. It is seriously important that our students adhere to our health protocols and policies. if they refuse to do so, the university is left with no choice but to pursue disciplinary measures."

Officials say, during the suspension, the chapters may not participate in, attend or organize any functions, activities or events, or participate in university-wide events as an organization.

Officials say an investigation in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct will be conducted and disciplinary proceedings may follow.

By Post StaffLINCOLN, Neb.-The University of Nebraska Lincoln has announced the suspension of several Greek chapters following large gatherings on Labor Day.According to a statement from the University, several Greek chapters have been placed on "immediate temporary suspension" effective on Tuesday.The houses that were suspended include; Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Xi Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, Phi Delta and Sigma Phi Epsilon.The statement said the suspensions were based on reports, including photos and videos, that depicted large gatherings on house properties on the evening of September 7. University officials say the gatherings showed attendees with no face coverings or physical distancing, which is a violation of local COVID-19 health directives and university policy regarding COVID-19."I am very disappointed in the behavior that has now required us to take these measures," said Chancellor Ronnie Green. "This kind of activity placed the health of others and the community at risk. It is seriously important that our students adhere to our health protocols and policies. if they refuse to do so, the university is left with no choice but to pursue disciplinary measures."Officials say, during the suspension, the chapters may not participate in, attend or organize any functions, activities or events, or participate in university-wide events as an organization.Officials say an investigation in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct will be conducted and disciplinary proceedings may follow.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another look at tonight’s events: <a href="https://t.co/cN6shibGSG">https://t.co/cN6shibGSG</a>&mdash; Zach Wendling (@ZachWendling2) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZachWendling2/status/1303155012307243009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

UNL suspends 6 Greek chapters after larger gatherings with no masks or physical distancing

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported six new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Tuesday.

Officials say five of the cases are in Lincoln County and one case is in Hooker County. Officials say three of the new cases are "community spread" and three are considered "under investigation."

WCDHD says two of the cases reported today are from September 5, three are from September 6 and three are from September 8.

After further investigation, two cases previously identified as residents of the WCDHD jurisdiction were transferred to the appropriate health department.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported six new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Tuesday.Officials say five of the cases are in Lincoln County and one case is in Hooker County. Officials say three of the new cases are "community spread" and three are considered "under investigation."WCDHD says two of the cases reported today are from September 5, three are from September 6 and three are from September 8.After further investigation, two cases previously identified as residents of the WCDHD jurisdiction were transferred to the appropriate health department.Check out the WCDHD Dashboard.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599619153993.png" alt="covid update september 8 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update september 8 2020.png</figcaption>
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