LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Supreme Court will decide whether to allow voters to decide whether to legalize medical marijuana in November.

Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner filed a challenge on Friday to Secretary of State Bob Evnen's ruling that the medical marijuana ballot initiative qualified to be on the ballot.

Evnen said a day earlier that the Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana group had collected well over the 122,275 signatures it needed to put the issue on the ballot.

Opponents of the measure argue that it violates state rules requiring ballot measures to focus on a single question. Lincoln attorney Mark Fahleson, who is a former Nebraska Republican Party chairman, is representing Wagner. He said the measure poses two separate questions: whether residents should have the right to use marijuana for medical purposes, and whether private companies should be allowed to grow and sell it.

Organizers of the ballot measure have said they're highly confident that the measure will survive the legal challenge and they argue that medical marijuana has strong support in Nebraska.

Lawyers for the pro-medical marijuana group said in a letter that the legal challenge is "a last-minute attempt to derail the precious right of the people" to vote on voter-supported initiatives.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Supreme Court will decide whether to allow voters to decide whether to legalize medical marijuana in November.Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner filed a challenge on Friday to Secretary of State Bob Evnen's ruling that the medical marijuana ballot initiative qualified to be on the ballot.Evnen said a day earlier that the Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana group had collected well over the 122,275 signatures it needed to put the issue on the ballot.Opponents of the measure argue that it violates state rules requiring ballot measures to focus on a single question. Lincoln attorney Mark Fahleson, who is a former Nebraska Republican Party chairman, is representing Wagner. He said the measure poses two separate questions: whether residents should have the right to use marijuana for medical purposes, and whether private companies should be allowed to grow and sell it.Organizers of the ballot measure have said they're highly confident that the measure will survive the legal challenge and they argue that medical marijuana has strong support in Nebraska.Lawyers for the pro-medical marijuana group said in a letter that the legal challenge is "a last-minute attempt to derail the precious right of the people" to vote on voter-supported initiatives.

Nebraska medical marijuana initiative challenged in court

North Platte City Council Agenda (September 1, 2020)

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on August 31,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:00 A.M.

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on August 31,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:15 A.M.

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

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

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

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

5.	9:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider Special Designated Liquor Permit submitted
by

	Nebraska
Bar &amp; Grill of Gothenburg for an event to be held at Harbor
Lights on 


6.	9:40
A.M.	Discuss and consider unique and/or noncompetitive nature of
items and 	related remediation work to be performed on existing
geothermal system at the Lincoln 


	County
Courthouse in accordance with Neb. Reb. Statute 23-3109(1) (a)

	Discuss
and consider bid submitted by Sargent Irrigation for unique and/or
	noncompetitive items and related remediation work to be performed on
existing 	geothermal system at the Lincoln County Courthouse

7.	9:50
A.M.	Discuss and consider Memorandum of Understanding with the 


	City
of North Platte concerning the FY 2020 JAG Program funding

8.	10:00
A.M.	Closed session regarding deployment of security personnel or 


	devices,
and to protect attorney client privileges, which is clearly necessary
to

9.	10:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider approval of the 2020 inventory forms 


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

10.	10:30
A.M.	Conduct a budget work session on the 2020-2021 Lincoln County,

NOTICE
OF HEARING AND AGENDAMonday,
August 31, 2020Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on August 31,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:00 A.M.Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on August 31,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:15 A.M.1.	Open
with prayer2.	Approve
minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting	held
August 24, 20203.	Consider
the following:<ul>
 <li>Claims
	&amp; Treasurer’s Receipts
	</li><li>Receive
	and order filed the fee report submitted by the County Sheriff
	</li><li>Special
	Designated Liquor Permit submitted by Good Life on the Bricks for an
	event at Harbor Lights on September 19, 2020
	</li><li>Adoption
	of a resolution to enter into an interlocal agreement with the
	Village of Sutherland to provide library services
	</li><li>Adoption
	of a resolution to enter into an interlocal agreement with the
	Village of Brady to provide law enforcement services and authorize
	the Chairman to sign
	</li><li>Authorizing
	the Chairman to sign the annual Peopleware renewal agreement for
	software used in the Register of Deeds office
</li>
 </ul>Recess
as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the
Lincoln County Board of Equalization.4.	9:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:<ul>
 <li>Approve
	minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Equalization meeting
</li>
 </ul>held
on August 24, 2020<ul>
 <li>Certificates
	of correction and refund as submitted by the County Assessor	
	</li><li>Personal
	property valuation protest submitted by KCW Enterprise Inc.
</li>
 </ul>Adjourn
or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization
and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.5.	9:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider Special Designated Liquor Permit submitted
by	Nebraska
Bar &amp; Grill of Gothenburg for an event to be held at Harbor
Lights on 
	October
17, 20206.	9:40
A.M.	Discuss and consider unique and/or noncompetitive nature of
items and 	related remediation work to be performed on existing
geothermal system at the Lincoln 
	County
Courthouse in accordance with Neb. Reb. Statute 23-3109(1) (a)	Discuss
and consider bid submitted by Sargent Irrigation for unique and/or
	noncompetitive items and related remediation work to be performed on
existing 	geothermal system at the Lincoln County Courthouse7.	9:50
A.M.	Discuss and consider Memorandum of Understanding with the 
	City
of North Platte concerning the FY 2020 JAG Program funding8.	10:00
A.M.	Closed session regarding deployment of security personnel or 
	devices,
and to protect attorney client privileges, which is clearly necessary
to	protect
the public interest9.	10:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider approval of the 2020 inventory forms 
	submitted
by all county offices Hear
concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, and their
representative10.	10:30
A.M.	Conduct a budget work session on the 2020-2021 Lincoln County,	NE
budget								Rebecca
J. Rossell								Lincoln
County Clerk

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners Agenda (August 31, 2020)

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

WCDHD says both cases are from Lincoln County and considered Under Investigation.

For more information visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR2sSUID0AkDUtAYP8rm4uBB2y7KQtd-gcfv8s7Hu7Aj7YT0f8H-KY9ZegI#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported two new cases of COVID- 19 in their jurisdiction on Saturday.WCDHD says both cases are from Lincoln County and considered Under Investigation.For more information visit the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR2sSUID0AkDUtAYP8rm4uBB2y7KQtd-gcfv8s7Hu7Aj7YT0f8H-KY9ZegI#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598755110180.jpeg" alt="covid update august 29 2020 2.jpg" />
 <figcaption>covid update august 29 2020 2.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

WCDHD reports two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Saturday

A longtime Noth Platte physician is hospitalized with COVID-19.

Dr. Leland Lamberty was diagnosed with COVID-19 and is currently at Great Plains Health in North Platte due to complications.

According to a Facebook post from First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Dr. Lamberty is asking for prayers for his spouse and family and is also asking people to take the coronavirus seriously, calling it "real and dangerous."

Dr. Lamberty is in practice at Great Plains Family Medicine. He graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Medicine in 1971 and has practiced family medicine since.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598737639136.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A longtime Noth Platte physician is hospitalized with COVID-19.Dr. Leland Lamberty was diagnosed with COVID-19 and is currently at Great Plains Health in North Platte due to complications.According to a Facebook post from First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Dr. Lamberty is asking for prayers for his spouse and family and is also asking people to take the coronavirus seriously, calling it "real and dangerous."Dr. Lamberty is in practice at Great Plains Family Medicine. He graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Medicine in 1971 and has practiced family medicine since.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFirstLutheranNP%2Fposts%2F3303975139664071&width=500" width="500" height="729" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Longtime North Platte physician hospitalized with COVID-19

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported 12 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Friday.

WCDHD says all cases are from Lincoln County and are "Under Investigation."

WCDHD will report any positives for today later this evening.

*PLEASE NOTE: The weekly positivity rate on the dashboard is based on live data. You will see changes to the weekly number due to the fact that this is live data. We will report and make changes as we get additional data from the state system. This section is currently being worked on. You can still find our overall positivity rate in the table on the first page of the dashboard.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported 12 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Friday.WCDHD says all cases are from Lincoln County and are "Under Investigation."WCDHD will report any positives for today later this evening.*PLEASE NOTE: The weekly positivity rate on the dashboard is based on live data. You will see changes to the weekly number due to the fact that this is live data. We will report and make changes as we get additional data from the state system. This section is currently being worked on. You can still find our overall positivity rate in the table on the first page of the dashboard.WCDHD Dashboard<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598730586134.png" alt="covid update august 29 2020 1.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update august 29 2020 1.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

WCDHD: 12 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Lincoln County on Friday

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The number of positive COVID-19 cases among the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services employees has risen by two to 63.

KETV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/two-more-nebraska-corrections-employees-test-positive-for-covid-19/33839349" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that both of the newly infected employees are self-isolating at home. One of the employees works at the Lincoln Correctional Center. The second employee works at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution.

The department said that anyone who may have had close contact with either staff member will be directed to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The number of positive COVID-19 cases among the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services employees has risen by two to 63.KETV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/two-more-nebraska-corrections-employees-test-positive-for-covid-19/33839349" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that both of the newly infected employees are self-isolating at home. One of the employees works at the Lincoln Correctional Center. The second employee works at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution.The department said that anyone who may have had close contact with either staff member will be directed to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider.

2 new cases reported among Nebraska prison employees

8.29.2020 NPHS Volleyball Bellevue invite Day 2

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved the authorization of one lottery and one auction permit for the 2021 bighorn sheep season when it met Aug. 28 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

The Commission also approved recommendations to:

• increase various 2021 nonresident fees, including for small game (hunt), fish, deer, antelope and turkey permits, antelope applications and the Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp for nonresident boats;

• amend wildlife regulations to allow the agency director, in the interest of public health, to determine that physical check stations are not prudent during the November firearm deer season, October antelope or muzzleloader season or any elk season, and allow the animal to be checked via internet or telephone;

• amend wildlife regulations regarding threatened and endangered species to add the thick-billed longspur (formerly McCown’s longspur) and the timber rattlesnake to the threatened list and remove the river otter from the threatened list; and

• change sport fishing regulations to add the following areas to the list of those where no live baitfish may be used or possessed: Rock Creek Lake State Recreation Area, Dundy County; Avocet Wildlife Management Area, Grant County; Wilbur Reservoir, Saline County; Big Elk, Sarpy County; and West Papillion 6, Sarpy County.

• approved the City of Chadron Deer Management Plan, a joint program with Game and Parks, to control the deer population with the use of Damage Control Permits;

• approved the permitting of some 2020 hunting in Niobrara, Eugene T. Mahoney, Ponca, Indian Cave, Chadron, and Platte River state parks, and Ash Hollow, Rock Creek Station and Fort Atkinson state historical parks; and

• approved budget requests for fiscal years 2022 and 2023.

It was announced that Free Fishing and Park Entry Day will be Saturday, Sept. 12. This family-friendly day allows anyone to explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park without the need to purchase a park entry permit for the day, and it also allows anyone to fish for the day without a fish permit.

The Commission also heard a presentation from the Nebraska Chapter of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, a membership organization working to protect public lands and waters through stewardship and education. The group shared its goals of working with partners to support access to public lands, hunting mentorship and passing on Nebraska's hunting and fishing legacies.

Also, Director Jim Douglas expressed his gratitude to the Nebraska Big Game Society for its recent $39,000 donation to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission following its spring online auction of a resident/nonresident elk tag auction. The Society raises funds to support big game research and conservation, habitat restoration and improvements and hunting access in Nebraska.

To see the approved regulations and orders, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MjguMjYyNzIzMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9yZWd1bGF0aW9ucy8ifQ.uDi4x8GSRefbPpxdUMtXjF1guuYcBqVRrARCsAUuL10/s/497221905/br/82963033666-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/regulations</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved the authorization of one lottery and one auction permit for the 2021 bighorn sheep season when it met Aug. 28 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.The Commission also approved recommendations to:• increase various 2021 nonresident fees, including for small game (hunt), fish, deer, antelope and turkey permits, antelope applications and the Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp for nonresident boats;• amend wildlife regulations to allow the agency director, in the interest of public health, to determine that physical check stations are not prudent during the November firearm deer season, October antelope or muzzleloader season or any elk season, and allow the animal to be checked via internet or telephone;• amend wildlife regulations regarding threatened and endangered species to add the thick-billed longspur (formerly McCown’s longspur) and the timber rattlesnake to the threatened list and remove the river otter from the threatened list; and• change sport fishing regulations to add the following areas to the list of those where no live baitfish may be used or possessed: Rock Creek Lake State Recreation Area, Dundy County; Avocet Wildlife Management Area, Grant County; Wilbur Reservoir, Saline County; Big Elk, Sarpy County; and West Papillion 6, Sarpy County.In addition, the Commission:• approved the City of Chadron Deer Management Plan, a joint program with Game and Parks, to control the deer population with the use of Damage Control Permits;• approved the permitting of some 2020 hunting in Niobrara, Eugene T. Mahoney, Ponca, Indian Cave, Chadron, and Platte River state parks, and Ash Hollow, Rock Creek Station and Fort Atkinson state historical parks; and• approved budget requests for fiscal years 2022 and 2023.It was announced that Free Fishing and Park Entry Day will be Saturday, Sept. 12. This family-friendly day allows anyone to explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park without the need to purchase a park entry permit for the day, and it also allows anyone to fish for the day without a fish permit.The Commission also heard a presentation from the Nebraska Chapter of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, a membership organization working to protect public lands and waters through stewardship and education. The group shared its goals of working with partners to support access to public lands, hunting mentorship and passing on Nebraska's hunting and fishing legacies.Also, Director Jim Douglas expressed his gratitude to the Nebraska Big Game Society for its recent $39,000 donation to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission following its spring online auction of a resident/nonresident elk tag auction. The Society raises funds to support big game research and conservation, habitat restoration and improvements and hunting access in Nebraska.To see the approved regulations and orders, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MjguMjYyNzIzMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9yZWd1bGF0aW9ucy8ifQ.uDi4x8GSRefbPpxdUMtXjF1guuYcBqVRrARCsAUuL10/s/497221905/br/82963033666-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/regulations</a>.

Commission approves 2021 bighorn sheep season

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Visitors to public lands and other recreational sites in the Nebraska Panhandle are being advised of wildfires in the region, and are being asked to be especially cautious because of the heightened risk for fires brought on by hot and dry weather.

The Hubbard Gap Fire in the Wildcat Hills in Banner County south of McGrew had burned about 4,000 acres as of Friday afternoon. In addition to threatening and affecting private agricultural lands, early estimates indicate the fire burned about three-fourths of the 1,829-acre Williams Gap Wildlife Management Area.

Among the multiple resources responding to the fire are airplanes and helicopters. Aircraft may use Lake Minatare State Recreation Area and other ponds and reservoirs in the region this weekend. In the event of aircraft activity, boaters are advised to stay near the shoreline.

On Friday, crews with air tankers also were responding to a wildfire in the Pine Ridge about 3 miles south-southeast of Chadron. It was estimated to be 4-5 acres early in the afternoon.

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Visitors to public lands and other recreational sites in the Nebraska Panhandle are being advised of wildfires in the region, and are being asked to be especially cautious because of the heightened risk for fires brought on by hot and dry weather.The Hubbard Gap Fire in the Wildcat Hills in Banner County south of McGrew had burned about 4,000 acres as of Friday afternoon. In addition to threatening and affecting private agricultural lands, early estimates indicate the fire burned about three-fourths of the 1,829-acre Williams Gap Wildlife Management Area.Among the multiple resources responding to the fire are airplanes and helicopters. Aircraft may use Lake Minatare State Recreation Area and other ponds and reservoirs in the region this weekend. In the event of aircraft activity, boaters are advised to stay near the shoreline.On Friday, crews with air tankers also were responding to a wildfire in the Pine Ridge about 3 miles south-southeast of Chadron. It was estimated to be 4-5 acres early in the afternoon.

Crews responding to wildfires in Nebraska Panhandle

United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Cory D. Preitauer, 30, formerly of North Platte, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for conspiracy and production of child pornography. Preitauer was sentenced to 40 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp;

In March of 2019, a state search warrant was served at the home of a target living in Kansas City, Missouri. During a forensic examination of the computer seized in the Kansas City investigation the examiners located screenshots of a chat between the Kansas City target and Preitauer’s co-defendant Mathew Goad.&nbsp; During the chat, Goad indicated he had sexually assaulted a child and recorded that assault. Goad then sent the recording to the target. Further investigation revealed that Goad and Preitauer were both involved in the production of the video. After his arrest, Preitauer admitted to law enforcement that he and Goad created the video of the sexual assault. The child was four years old at the time the video was created. Goad was previously sentenced by this Court.

After today’s sentencing, FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson said, “The FBI takes an active role in protecting children.&nbsp; The sentencing of Cory Preitauer is an example of our commitment to removing sexual predators from children’s lives.”

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

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598705697652.jpeg" alt="Cory Preitauer" />
 <figcaption>Cory Preitauer</figcaption>
 </figure>United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Cory D. Preitauer, 30, formerly of North Platte, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for conspiracy and production of child pornography. Preitauer was sentenced to 40 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp;In March of 2019, a state search warrant was served at the home of a target living in Kansas City, Missouri. During a forensic examination of the computer seized in the Kansas City investigation the examiners located screenshots of a chat between the Kansas City target and Preitauer’s co-defendant Mathew Goad.&nbsp; During the chat, Goad indicated he had sexually assaulted a child and recorded that assault. Goad then sent the recording to the target. Further investigation revealed that Goad and Preitauer were both involved in the production of the video. After his arrest, Preitauer admitted to law enforcement that he and Goad created the video of the sexual assault. The child was four years old at the time the video was created. Goad was previously sentenced by this Court.After today’s sentencing, FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson said, “The FBI takes an active role in protecting children.&nbsp; The sentencing of Cory Preitauer is an example of our commitment to removing sexual predators from children’s lives.”This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

North Platte man gets 40 years for child pornography 

LINCOLN, Neb. – Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska has been rescheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12.

September is a great month to get outdoors in Nebraska! Free Fishing and Park Entry Day allows anyone to explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park without the need to purchase a park entry permit for the day. It also allows anyone to fish for the day without a fishing permit.

Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees still apply at state park areas. Regular entrance fees for museums at state historical parks and the entrance fee at the Schramm Education Center remain in effect.

This family-friendly day typically is held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, however, this year’s event was delayed because of the COVID-19 health crisis.

To find more information about Nebraska’s state park areas and fishing, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MjguMjYyNzI5MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.IylKtw6yfOfchnVEaJM22RcS50zB3BQPLyFxJe-a4Xc/s/497221905/br/82963980555-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska has been rescheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12.September is a great month to get outdoors in Nebraska! Free Fishing and Park Entry Day allows anyone to explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park without the need to purchase a park entry permit for the day. It also allows anyone to fish for the day without a fishing permit.Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees still apply at state park areas. Regular entrance fees for museums at state historical parks and the entrance fee at the Schramm Education Center remain in effect.This family-friendly day typically is held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, however, this year’s event was delayed because of the COVID-19 health crisis.To find more information about Nebraska’s state park areas and fishing, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MjguMjYyNzI5MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.IylKtw6yfOfchnVEaJM22RcS50zB3BQPLyFxJe-a4Xc/s/497221905/br/82963980555-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Nebraska Free Fishing and Park Entry Day set for Sept. 12

AUGUST 28, 2020 (NORTH PLATTE, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— A North Platte man has been arrested following a pursuit in North Platte on Friday. The effort included the Nebraska State Patrol, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and North Platte Police Department.

At approximately 12:50 p.m. today, a trooper observed a Toyota SUV fail to stop at a stoplight at the intersection of Highway 83 and Walker Rd, south of Interstate 80. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper pursued as the vehicle continued on surface roads south of I-80 for a short time before driving northbound on Highway 83 into North Platte.

As the vehicle was traveling northbound on Highway 83, the trooper performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver then fled on foot through a building construction site, entered one of the construction pickups on-site, and drove off. The trooper remained at the scene of the theft with the original vehicle.

A short time later, the driver was located at a residence on B Street by North Platte Police Officers, where he was taken into custody. The driver, Rosendo Duran, 28, of North Platte, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, possession of drug paraphernalia, motor vehicle theft, and violating a traffic control device. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

Duran also had two outstanding warrants from Hall County.

AUGUST 28, 2020 (NORTH PLATTE, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— A North Platte man has been arrested following a pursuit in North Platte on Friday. The effort included the Nebraska State Patrol, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and North Platte Police Department.At approximately 12:50 p.m. today, a trooper observed a Toyota SUV fail to stop at a stoplight at the intersection of Highway 83 and Walker Rd, south of Interstate 80. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper pursued as the vehicle continued on surface roads south of I-80 for a short time before driving northbound on Highway 83 into North Platte.As the vehicle was traveling northbound on Highway 83, the trooper performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver then fled on foot through a building construction site, entered one of the construction pickups on-site, and drove off. The trooper remained at the scene of the theft with the original vehicle.A short time later, the driver was located at a residence on B Street by North Platte Police Officers, where he was taken into custody. The driver, Rosendo Duran, 28, of North Platte, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, possession of drug paraphernalia, motor vehicle theft, and violating a traffic control device. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.Duran also had two outstanding warrants from Hall County.

North Platte man arrested after stealing construction pickup, pursuit

McCOOK, Neb. (AP) - A 79-year-old McCook woman who complained about abuse from her husband for 30 years has been charged with first-degree murder in his death after she allegedly shot him while he slept, police said.

Lavetta Langdon was being held on $5 million bond after a court appearance Thursday. Her husband, Larry Langdon, 78, was found dead in the couple's home Aug. 20, The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/mccook-woman-charged-with-first-degree-murder-of-78-year-old-husband-judge-sets-bond/article_cb952cdc-5555-5088-b862-a0508be28ea9.html" target="_blank">reported.</a>

McCook police Detective Kevin Hodgson said officers who responded to a call about a fight at the home found Larry Langdon dead in the bedroom and Lavetta Langdon sitting in the living room.

Larry Langdon allegedly hit his wife several times earlier in the day and when he fell asleep, she held a gun to his chest and fired, then called police, Hodgson said.

The detective said Lavetta Langdon had complained about domestic violence from her husband for 30 years and allegedly had warned him she would kill him if he hit her again.

She was also charged with use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598704905580.png" alt="Lavetta Langdon" />
 <figcaption>Lavetta Langdon</figcaption>
 </figure>McCOOK, Neb. (AP) - A 79-year-old McCook woman who complained about abuse from her husband for 30 years has been charged with first-degree murder in his death after she allegedly shot him while he slept, police said.Lavetta Langdon was being held on $5 million bond after a court appearance Thursday. Her husband, Larry Langdon, 78, was found dead in the couple's home Aug. 20, The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/mccook-woman-charged-with-first-degree-murder-of-78-year-old-husband-judge-sets-bond/article_cb952cdc-5555-5088-b862-a0508be28ea9.html" target="_blank">reported.</a>McCook police Detective Kevin Hodgson said officers who responded to a call about a fight at the home found Larry Langdon dead in the bedroom and Lavetta Langdon sitting in the living room.Larry Langdon allegedly hit his wife several times earlier in the day and when he fell asleep, she held a gun to his chest and fired, then called police, Hodgson said.The detective said Lavetta Langdon had complained about domestic violence from her husband for 30 years and allegedly had warned him she would kill him if he hit her again.She was also charged with use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony.

79-year-old McCook woman charged with husband's death

CHAPPELL, Neb. (AP) — Authorities in western Nebraska say a 13-year-old boy has died in a fall from atop a grain bin. 

The Deuel County Sheriff’s Office says the accident happened Sunday in Chappell, on the southern edge of the Nebraska Panhandle. 

Deputies and medics were called around 7 a.m. to the Frenchman Valley Coop for a report of an accident and found 13-year-old Casey Fox on the ground and unresponsive.

 An investigation determined he died of injuries sustained after he climbed a large grain bin and fell off.

CHAPPELL, Neb. (AP) — Authorities in western Nebraska say a 13-year-old boy has died in a fall from atop a grain bin. The Deuel County Sheriff’s Office says the accident happened Sunday in Chappell, on the southern edge of the Nebraska Panhandle. Deputies and medics were called around 7 a.m. to the Frenchman Valley Coop for a report of an accident and found 13-year-old Casey Fox on the ground and unresponsive. An investigation determined he died of injuries sustained after he climbed a large grain bin and fell off.

13-year-old died in fall from grain bin in western Nebraska

Due to ongoing concerns with the spread of Covid-19, including the recent spike in cases in Lincoln County, the NPHS Homecoming Dance will not be held this fall.

As an alternative,&nbsp;we are exploring the possibility of hosting a Homecoming Dance towards the end of the Varsity Basketball Season. We are hopeful that there will be enhanced testing practices, treatments, and even a vaccine in place by this time. One or more of these game-changers improves the chances of hosting a safe, successful Homecoming Dance.

NPHS still plans to host a Homecoming Football game, Homecoming theme days, and other events that minimize the spread of Covid-19

Due to ongoing concerns with the spread of Covid-19, including the recent spike in cases in Lincoln County, the NPHS Homecoming Dance will not be held this fall.As an alternative,&nbsp;we are exploring the possibility of hosting a Homecoming Dance towards the end of the Varsity Basketball Season. We are hopeful that there will be enhanced testing practices, treatments, and even a vaccine in place by this time. One or more of these game-changers improves the chances of hosting a safe, successful Homecoming Dance.NPHS still plans to host a Homecoming Football game, Homecoming theme days, and other events that minimize the spread of Covid-19

North Platte High School cancels Homecoming dance, looking at alternatives 

8.27.2020 NPHS Football vs Aurora

CHAPPELL, Neb. (AP) - Authorities in western Nebraska say a young teenage boy has died in a fall from atop a grain bin.

The accident happened Sunday in Chappell, on the southern edge of the Nebraska Panhandle, according to the Deuel County Sheriff's Office.

An investigation determined he died of injuries sustained after he climbed a large grain bin and fell off.

CHAPPELL, Neb. (AP) - Authorities in western Nebraska say a young teenage boy has died in a fall from atop a grain bin.The accident happened Sunday in Chappell, on the southern edge of the Nebraska Panhandle, according to the Deuel County Sheriff's Office.Deputies and medics were called around 7 a.m. to the Frenchman Valley Coop for a report of an accident and found 13-year-old Casey Fox on the ground and unresponsive.An investigation determined he died of injuries sustained after he climbed a large grain bin and fell off.

Nebraska officials: 13-year-old died in fall from grain bin

Gregory C Ramirez Jr, 33, North Platte and Relissa G Williams, 33, North Platte

Chase C Krotter, 28, Maxwell and Nicole L Walrod, 29, Maxwell

Dana R Sieveke Jr, 35, North Platte and Emily L Crane, 27, North Platte

Jacob C Kugler, 23, Sutherland and Christina R Tilford, 26, North Platte

Austin J Trusty, 23, Hershey and Bailey J Leonard, 23, Hershey

Published August 28, 2020Gregory C Ramirez Jr, 33, North Platte and Relissa G Williams, 33, North PlatteChase C Krotter, 28, Maxwell and Nicole L Walrod, 29, MaxwellDana R Sieveke Jr, 35, North Platte and Emily L Crane, 27, North PlatteJacob C Kugler, 23, Sutherland and Christina R Tilford, 26, North PlatteAustin J Trusty, 23, Hershey and Bailey J Leonard, 23, Hershey

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses

Nikita White has been located and is safe. No further information was released.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte woman is missing and her family is concerned for her safety and well being.

The family of Nikita White says she has been missing since around 1:00 p.m. on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

Nikita was last seen heading eastbound on Interstate 80 near Paxton, driving a dark blue 2015 Chevy Cruz with Bill Summer's placards and an in-transit which expires on September 22.

Friday morning, the vehicle was located abandoned near the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Nikita was wearing a white hoodie with red shorts, tennis shoes, and rose gold aviator glasses. Family members say she mentioned she may change her hair color to black.

Family members and friends are concerned for Nikita's wellbeing and safety.

Anyone with information is urged to contact local law enforcement or the family at 308-289-4600.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598639412584.png" alt="Nikita White" />
 <figcaption>Nikita White</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE 8/28/20 2:20 pmNikita White has been located and is safe. No further information was released.NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte woman is missing and her family is concerned for her safety and well being.The family of Nikita White says she has been missing since around 1:00 p.m. on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;Nikita was last seen heading eastbound on Interstate 80 near Paxton, driving a dark blue 2015 Chevy Cruz with Bill Summer's placards and an in-transit which expires on September 22.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598639437750.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Friday morning, the vehicle was located abandoned near the University of Nebraska at Kearney.Nikita was wearing a white hoodie with red shorts, tennis shoes, and rose gold aviator glasses. Family members say she mentioned she may change her hair color to black.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598639457729.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Family members and friends are concerned for Nikita's wellbeing and safety.Anyone with information is urged to contact local law enforcement or the family at 308-289-4600.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwes.white.14%2Fposts%2F10223534973273014&width=500" width="500" height="765" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

UPDATED Family seeks help in locating missing North Platte woman

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska State Fair has kicked off under scaled-down conditions as organizers seek to provide a safe venue during a global pandemic.

The annual fair began Friday at Fonner Park in Grand Island, focusing on 4-H and FFA events, where young people from across the state will take part in livestock exhibitions.

While there will be a handful of food vendors and some other displays and events, some of the usual offerings won't be around this year. That includes music concerts, rodeos and the midway with its carnival rides.

On the plus side, there is no cost to be admitted this year, and parking is free. The only ticketed event is the ultimate bullfighting event Friday and Saturday, at $20 per ticket.

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska State Fair has kicked off under scaled-down conditions as organizers seek to provide a safe venue during a global pandemic.The annual fair began Friday at Fonner Park in Grand Island, focusing on 4-H and FFA events, where young people from across the state will take part in livestock exhibitions.While there will be a handful of food vendors and some other displays and events, some of the usual offerings won't be around this year. That includes music concerts, rodeos and the midway with its carnival rides.On the plus side, there is no cost to be admitted this year, and parking is free. The only ticketed event is the ultimate bullfighting event Friday and Saturday, at $20 per ticket.The fair will run through Labor Day.

Downsized Nebraska State Fair kicks off Friday amid pandemic

On Aug. 26 two people were sent to a hospital after a two-vehicle accident on East 10th Street and Flack Avenue in Alliance.

A 2013 Ford Escape driven by 30 year-old Jennifer Garza of Alliance was stopped at the stop sign heading westbound on 10th Street in the 5 p.m. hour.&nbsp;

A 2013 Kia Sportage driven by 36 year-old Ashley N. Peterson was driving southbound on Flack Avenue approaching 10th Street.

"There was a semi-truck also southbound stopped in the turning lane," said John Kiss, Alliance Police Chief. "The driver of the semi did not have sufficient room to execute the turn so he waved the westbound vehicle[Garza] to cross Flack Avenue and continue west onto crossing 10th Street."

As the vehicle crossed half way through the intersection Garza's vehicle collided with Peterson.

&nbsp;Garza and Peterson were transported to Box Butte General with injuries.

Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene due to severe damage.

Chief Kiss said the investigation is continuing.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostOn Aug. 26 two people were sent to a hospital after a two-vehicle accident on East 10th Street and Flack Avenue in Alliance.A 2013 Ford Escape driven by 30 year-old Jennifer Garza of Alliance was stopped at the stop sign heading westbound on 10th Street in the 5 p.m. hour.&nbsp;A 2013 Kia Sportage driven by 36 year-old Ashley N. Peterson was driving southbound on Flack Avenue approaching 10th Street."There was a semi-truck also southbound stopped in the turning lane," said John Kiss, Alliance Police Chief. "The driver of the semi did not have sufficient room to execute the turn so he waved the westbound vehicle[Garza] to cross Flack Avenue and continue west onto crossing 10th Street."As the vehicle crossed half way through the intersection Garza's vehicle collided with Peterson.&nbsp;Garza and Peterson were transported to Box Butte General with injuries.Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene due to severe damage.Chief Kiss said the investigation is continuing.

Two people sent to the hospital in Alliance accident 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska voters will get the chance to decide whether to legalize medical marijuana in November, the state's top election official announced Thursday, although his decision is certain to face an immediate court challenge.

Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen confirmed that activists have collected enough valid petition signatures to qualify the measure for the general-election ballot. Evnen, a Republican, rejected a request by marijuana opponents to block the measure, as he did this week&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5ab909fccc4cb413b6f28000360c4fad" target="_blank">with a proposal to allow casino gambling</a>.

Evnen said opponents raised several valid points about problems with the ballot measure's language, but he ultimately concluded that it met all the legal requirements necessary to go before voters.

"It was a close case," he said in an interview.

Evnen said he's certain that marijuana opponents will challenge his decision before the Nebraska Supreme Court. The court will likely agree to hear the case quickly, because state law requires Evnen to finalize the ballot by Sept. 11.

Organizers of the ballot measure have said they're highly confident that the measure will survive a legal challenge and argue that medical marijuana has strong support in Nebraska.

Mark Fahleson, a Lincoln attorney and former Nebraska Republican Party chairman, argued in a Wednesday letter to Evnen that the measure violates the state constitution.

Fahleson said in the letter that the ballot measure fails to follow Nebraska's single-subject rule, which bars petition sponsors from bunching multiple issues into one yes-or-no question for voters to decide.

He argued that the ballot measure poses two separate questions: whether residents should have the right to use marijuana for medical purposes, and whether private companies should be allowed to grow and sell it.

Gambling opponents made similar arguments about the language of the casino ballot measure in a letter from their attorneys, some of whom also have close ties to the state GOP.

Supporters of the citizen petition drive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/82b334f235a843ed90ad58550fff2aaf" target="_blank">announced last month</a>&nbsp;that they had gathered more than enough signatures to submit the issue to voters. They launched the campaign after Nebraska lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5a4b3e4527ce41748bb52ea8fb7e0077" target="_blank">repeatedly rejected measures to medical marijuana</a>.

The Nebraska ballot measure would guarantee a constitutional right to use and grow marijuana if a doctor recommends it with no restrictions on what diseases qualify. It would only ban smoking the drug in public places. If voters approve it in the 2020 general election, patients would be free to grow an "adequate" supply.

Both the marijuana and gambling measures are viewed as widely popular with Nebraska voters, but they face strong opposition from well-connected Republican leaders, including Gov. Pete Ricketts.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska voters will get the chance to decide whether to legalize medical marijuana in November, the state's top election official announced Thursday, although his decision is certain to face an immediate court challenge.Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen confirmed that activists have collected enough valid petition signatures to qualify the measure for the general-election ballot. Evnen, a Republican, rejected a request by marijuana opponents to block the measure, as he did this week&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5ab909fccc4cb413b6f28000360c4fad" target="_blank">with a proposal to allow casino gambling</a>.Evnen said opponents raised several valid points about problems with the ballot measure's language, but he ultimately concluded that it met all the legal requirements necessary to go before voters."It was a close case," he said in an interview.Evnen said he's certain that marijuana opponents will challenge his decision before the Nebraska Supreme Court. The court will likely agree to hear the case quickly, because state law requires Evnen to finalize the ballot by Sept. 11.Organizers of the ballot measure have said they're highly confident that the measure will survive a legal challenge and argue that medical marijuana has strong support in Nebraska.Mark Fahleson, a Lincoln attorney and former Nebraska Republican Party chairman, argued in a Wednesday letter to Evnen that the measure violates the state constitution.Fahleson said in the letter that the ballot measure fails to follow Nebraska's single-subject rule, which bars petition sponsors from bunching multiple issues into one yes-or-no question for voters to decide.He argued that the ballot measure poses two separate questions: whether residents should have the right to use marijuana for medical purposes, and whether private companies should be allowed to grow and sell it.Gambling opponents made similar arguments about the language of the casino ballot measure in a letter from their attorneys, some of whom also have close ties to the state GOP.Supporters of the citizen petition drive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/82b334f235a843ed90ad58550fff2aaf" target="_blank">announced last month</a>&nbsp;that they had gathered more than enough signatures to submit the issue to voters. They launched the campaign after Nebraska lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5a4b3e4527ce41748bb52ea8fb7e0077" target="_blank">repeatedly rejected measures to medical marijuana</a>.The Nebraska ballot measure would guarantee a constitutional right to use and grow marijuana if a doctor recommends it with no restrictions on what diseases qualify. It would only ban smoking the drug in public places. If voters approve it in the 2020 general election, patients would be free to grow an "adequate" supply.Both the marijuana and gambling measures are viewed as widely popular with Nebraska voters, but they face strong opposition from well-connected Republican leaders, including Gov. Pete Ricketts.

Medical marijuana OK'd for Nebraska ballot, lawsuit expected

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Thursday.

Officials say all of the new cases are from Lincoln County and are Under Investigation.

5 of these cases are from yesterday (8/26/2020) 5 of these cases are from today (8/27/2020)

After further investigation, the two cases that were reported yesterday initially identified as Thomas County have been corrected to Hooker County.

<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3fpPk0KYyGtCaiQ7ta1Rd0PilC2HWodMNiT7gOazkiyuZGNTM_YiTsCA0#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Thursday.Officials say all of the new cases are from Lincoln County and are Under Investigation.5 of these cases are from yesterday (8/26/2020) 5 of these cases are from today (8/27/2020)After further investigation, the two cases that were reported yesterday initially identified as Thomas County have been corrected to Hooker County.*PLEASE NOTE: The weekly positivity rate on the dashboard is based on live data. You will see changes to the weekly number due to the fact that this is live data. We will report and make changes as we get additional data from the state system. This section is currently being worked on. You can still find our overall positivity rate in the table on the first page of the dashboard.<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3fpPk0KYyGtCaiQ7ta1Rd0PilC2HWodMNiT7gOazkiyuZGNTM_YiTsCA0#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598577236549.png" alt="covid update august 27 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update august 27 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

10 news cases of COVID-19 reported in Lincoln County on Thursday

The risk dial did not move this week
and remains at 2.46, which remains within the elevated risk level.
There were changes in the following variables, however those changes
were not significant enough to move the dial. 


The WCDHD risk
dial is used to show our community how COVID-19 is impacting our area
at a point-in-time.&nbsp;
Every week WCDHD’s team applies a set process for reviewing
available, current data (including positivity rate, cases, testing,
contact tracing and health care system capacity) to set the risk dial
for that week.&nbsp; Because our process is driven by the current
data each week, we cannot predict when the dial will move up or down.

To better
understand the data that contribute to the risk dial, we have a
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 best way to move our
community toward green is to practice social distancing and to wear
face coverings when appropriate social distancing cannot be
maintained.

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 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:
<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html</a>,
the WCDHD Facebook page, as well as the dashboard:
<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF</a>

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598568351123.png" alt="As of August 27, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of August 27, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>The risk dial did not move this week
and remains at 2.46, which remains within the elevated risk level.
There were changes in the following variables, however those changes
were not significant enough to move the dial. 
We had increases in the following:<ul>
 <li>Weekly Positivity Rate
	</li><li>Daily Hospitalizations
	</li><li>Community Spread
	</li><li>Medical &amp; Surgical Bed
	Availability
</li>
 </ul>We had decreases in the following: 
<ul>
 <li>Cases
	</li><li>Number of individuals needing
	contact tracing
</li>
 </ul>The WCDHD risk
dial is used to show our community how COVID-19 is impacting our area
at a point-in-time.&nbsp;
Every week WCDHD’s team applies a set process for reviewing
available, current data (including positivity rate, cases, testing,
contact tracing and health care system capacity) to set the risk dial
for that week.&nbsp; Because our process is driven by the current
data each week, we cannot predict when the dial will move up or down.To better
understand the data that contribute to the risk dial, we have a
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 best way to move our
community toward green is to practice social distancing and to wear
face coverings when appropriate social distancing cannot be
maintained. 
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 following data is used when
determining dial placement:&nbsp;<ul>
 <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>
 </ul>The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is reviewed by the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted to:
<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html</a>,
the WCDHD Facebook page, as well as the dashboard:
<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF</a>COVID-19 Risk Dial page:
<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html</a>
<a></a>
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