Scotty C talks with Margaret Balerud about the Sheldon Museum of Art's "Compact Rhythm' exhibit opening on October 2 at the Prairie Arts Center. PAC is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Scotty C talks with Margaret Balerud about the Sheldon Museum of Art's "Compact Rhythm' exhibit opening on October 2 at the Prairie Arts Center. PAC is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Sheldon Museum of Art's 'Compact Rhythm' on exhibit at PAC" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/kgupi-edc218?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: Sheldon Museum of Art's 'Compact Rhythm' on exhibit at PAC

OMAHA (UNMC)-University of Nebraska Medical Center researchers have received a four-year, $710,000 grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs to study why some patients with lung cancer develop brain metastases.&nbsp;

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, accounting for about 24% of cancer-related deaths in both women and men. The predicted 5-year survival rate of one type of lung cancer -- non-small-cell lung cancer -- is 21%, said Apar Ganti, MD, principal investigator of the study and oncologist specializing in lung cancer at UNMC and the&nbsp;Nebraska Western Iowa VA Medical Center in Omaha.

Once cancer has spread to the brain, the outcomes are poor as most chemotherapy drugs cannot penetrate into the brain in high enough concentrations to be effective, he said.

“There is an urgent need to discover new biomarkers and specific directed therapeutic strategies for this central nervous system metastasis,” Dr. Ganti said. “The majority of patients with non-small cell lung cancer present at advanced incurable stages where systemic therapy is the mainstay of treatment.

“We have found that a mucin – a protein – mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) -- is seen in high levels in the lung tumors of patients whose brain lesion has been removed due to spread. We believe that this protein somehow promotes the spread of cancer into the brain,” Dr. Ganti said. “If we are able to prove our hypotheses, we hope to be able to target this protein – mucin 5AC -- and thereby potentially prevent the spread of lung cancer to the brain.”

Mucins are major components in mucus that function as a physical barrier.

Dr. Ganti and collaborators (Drs. Nasser, Lakshmanan, and Batra) will try to identify the mechanism by which the protein stimulates the spread of lung cancer to the brain.

“We hope that we will be able to identify the pathways by which non-small cell lung cancer spreads to the brain. Since this is a very common site of spread of lung cancer, this will impact a large number of patients. If we can prove this, the next step will be to study patients with lung cancer and brain metastases,” Dr. Ganti said.

The team will use lung cancer cells and lung cancer animal models to decrease the MUC5AC protein level and evaluate the spread of lung cancer to the brain. They also will try and identify other proteins that may act as intermediate steps in this process.

Finally, he said they would also define the clinical utility of MUC5AC antibodies currently being developed at UNMC (Drs. Jain, Varshney and Kaur) on preventing/treating metastases in patients for the first time.

Collaborators on the projects include&nbsp;Mohd Wasim Nasser, PhD,&nbsp;Imayavaramban&nbsp;Lakshmanan, PhD and Surinder Batra, PhD, Maneesh Jain, PhD, Grish Varshney, PhD and&nbsp;Sukhwinder&nbsp;Kaur, PhD.

OMAHA (UNMC)-University of Nebraska Medical Center researchers have received a four-year, $710,000 grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs to study why some patients with lung cancer develop brain metastases.&nbsp;Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, accounting for about 24% of cancer-related deaths in both women and men. The predicted 5-year survival rate of one type of lung cancer -- non-small-cell lung cancer -- is 21%, said Apar Ganti, MD, principal investigator of the study and oncologist specializing in lung cancer at UNMC and the&nbsp;Nebraska Western Iowa VA Medical Center in Omaha.Once cancer has spread to the brain, the outcomes are poor as most chemotherapy drugs cannot penetrate into the brain in high enough concentrations to be effective, he said.“There is an urgent need to discover new biomarkers and specific directed therapeutic strategies for this central nervous system metastasis,” Dr. Ganti said. “The majority of patients with non-small cell lung cancer present at advanced incurable stages where systemic therapy is the mainstay of treatment.“We have found that a mucin – a protein – mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) -- is seen in high levels in the lung tumors of patients whose brain lesion has been removed due to spread. We believe that this protein somehow promotes the spread of cancer into the brain,” Dr. Ganti said. “If we are able to prove our hypotheses, we hope to be able to target this protein – mucin 5AC -- and thereby potentially prevent the spread of lung cancer to the brain.”Mucins are major components in mucus that function as a physical barrier.Dr. Ganti and collaborators (Drs. Nasser, Lakshmanan, and Batra) will try to identify the mechanism by which the protein stimulates the spread of lung cancer to the brain.“We hope that we will be able to identify the pathways by which non-small cell lung cancer spreads to the brain. Since this is a very common site of spread of lung cancer, this will impact a large number of patients. If we can prove this, the next step will be to study patients with lung cancer and brain metastases,” Dr. Ganti said.The team will use lung cancer cells and lung cancer animal models to decrease the MUC5AC protein level and evaluate the spread of lung cancer to the brain. They also will try and identify other proteins that may act as intermediate steps in this process.Finally, he said they would also define the clinical utility of MUC5AC antibodies currently being developed at UNMC (Drs. Jain, Varshney and Kaur) on preventing/treating metastases in patients for the first time.Collaborators on the projects include&nbsp;Mohd Wasim Nasser, PhD,&nbsp;Imayavaramban&nbsp;Lakshmanan, PhD and Surinder Batra, PhD, Maneesh Jain, PhD, Grish Varshney, PhD and&nbsp;Sukhwinder&nbsp;Kaur, PhD.

UNMC researchers receive $710,000 grant from VA to study lung cancer brain metastases

LINCOLN-One lucky player who bought a Nebraska Pick 5 ticket for the Tuesday, September 29 drawing is holding a ticket worth $138,000.

The Nebraska Lottery has confirmed that one ticket sold for Tuesday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw matched all five winning numbers for the $138,000 jackpot. The ticket was sold at Kwik Stop #02, 902 North Jeffers, in North Platte. The winning numbers from Tuesday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw were 08, 10, 21, 28, 29. Players are encouraged to check their tickets at any Nebraska Lottery retailer, online at nelottery.com, or by calling the Lottery office at 402-471-6100.

Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed in person at Lottery headquarters in Lincoln. Additional information about claiming prizes can be found at the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, or by calling 800-587-5200.

Nebraska Pick 5 is Nebraska's unique Lottery game: all the proceeds from Nebraska Pick 5 stay in Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in Nebraska at Nebraska Lottery Lotto game retailers. The odds of winning the Nebraska Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that it is not won, are 1 in 501,942. The overall odds of winning any Nebraska Pick 5 prize which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $782 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

LINCOLN-One lucky player who bought a Nebraska Pick 5 ticket for the Tuesday, September 29 drawing is holding a ticket worth $138,000.The Nebraska Lottery has confirmed that one ticket sold for Tuesday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw matched all five winning numbers for the $138,000 jackpot. The ticket was sold at Kwik Stop #02, 902 North Jeffers, in North Platte. The winning numbers from Tuesday’s Nebraska Pick 5 draw were 08, 10, 21, 28, 29. Players are encouraged to check their tickets at any Nebraska Lottery retailer, online at nelottery.com, or by calling the Lottery office at 402-471-6100.Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. Prizes of $20,000 or more must be claimed in person at Lottery headquarters in Lincoln. Additional information about claiming prizes can be found at the Nebraska Lottery website, nelottery.com, or by calling 800-587-5200.Nebraska Pick 5 is Nebraska's unique Lottery game: all the proceeds from Nebraska Pick 5 stay in Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in Nebraska at Nebraska Lottery Lotto game retailers. The odds of winning the Nebraska Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that it is not won, are 1 in 501,942. The overall odds of winning any Nebraska Pick 5 prize which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $782 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

$138,000 winning Nebraska Pick 5 ticket sold in North Platte

By Larry Pape-Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Each fall trout make a migration to city park ponds and state parks lakes across Nebraska.

Some find their way from the Grove Trout Rearing Station near Royal to Stanton Park Pond in Falls City. Others migrate to Riverside Park Pond near the zoo in Scottsbluff from Rock Creek State Fish Hatchery near Benkelman.

By truck and trailer, more than 50,000 10-inch rainbow trout find new homes in 43 easy-to-fish locations around Nebraska in mid-October.

Wherever you are in the state, there likely is a trout fishing location within 50 miles of you.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.CMFMeUYBymbK3s3A5TrJT05Yvun9kxJaA2qFFb0acVw/s/497221905/br/86104815970-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;– includes a Fish Stocking Reports page that lists all of the trout stocking locations for fall of 2020. The delivery dates depend on lake water temperatures, but generally they fall between Oct. 5 and Oct. 15 and will be posted before stocking occurs. This page also contains a tool that allows you to search the history of any fish stocking in Nebraska in the past 20 years.

A map titled Waters Containing Trout is also available on the website. From the website front page, the top banner has a link titled Maps. This leads to a link called Public Fishing Areas, and a map that lets you define what types of fishing you are interested in, including Waters Containing Trout. Note that this maps shows the location of all types of trout waters, including spring stocking sites and streams where trout occur year-round.

Many of the locations where these trout are stocked are classified as Family Friendly Lakes. You can find these lakes listed in the current Fishing Guide, and as one of the Public Fishing Area maps. These locations are considered safe, comfortable and have great fish catching potential. They will include a combination of barrier-free fishing piers, fishing trails, groomed park areas, concessions, playgrounds and picnic areas. Bring a comfortable chair, friend and snack to make a fun day of it.

Trout generally will be found in open water away from the shoreline. Start fishing your chosen lake by floating bait under a bobber. Sometimes trout stay deep, so fish on the bottom if the bobber method isn’t working.

Canned corn, small worms and dough baits work well. Casting a shiny spinner or spoon also is very effective at luring trout. Knowing how and where to fish comes with experience, but by observing or asking other anglers about what is working, you can improve your catching odds.

If you are just getting into fishing and want more details, a helpful resource is Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.MvCBqNW3v7JR0wD-MAXf8Gzc5e_1cSSArdnDJr1e7cU/s/497221905/br/86104815970-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/howtofish</a>. For information on Fish Stocking, including the dates of upcoming trout stocking,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoc3RvY2tpbmdyZXBvcnRzLyJ9.G46FciexX8OBIcoIijr9oOzoKEfc-kA81gnrUmLgS-8/s/497221905/br/86104815970-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/fishstockingreports</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601467849086.png" alt="More than 50,000 10-inch rainbow trout will be stocked in 43 waters across Nebraska in mid-October. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>More than 50,000 10-inch rainbow trout will be stocked in 43 waters across Nebraska in mid-October. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Larry Pape-Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionEach fall trout make a migration to city park ponds and state parks lakes across Nebraska.Some find their way from the Grove Trout Rearing Station near Royal to Stanton Park Pond in Falls City. Others migrate to Riverside Park Pond near the zoo in Scottsbluff from Rock Creek State Fish Hatchery near Benkelman.By truck and trailer, more than 50,000 10-inch rainbow trout find new homes in 43 easy-to-fish locations around Nebraska in mid-October.Wherever you are in the state, there likely is a trout fishing location within 50 miles of you.The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.CMFMeUYBymbK3s3A5TrJT05Yvun9kxJaA2qFFb0acVw/s/497221905/br/86104815970-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;– includes a Fish Stocking Reports page that lists all of the trout stocking locations for fall of 2020. The delivery dates depend on lake water temperatures, but generally they fall between Oct. 5 and Oct. 15 and will be posted before stocking occurs. This page also contains a tool that allows you to search the history of any fish stocking in Nebraska in the past 20 years.A map titled Waters Containing Trout is also available on the website. From the website front page, the top banner has a link titled Maps. This leads to a link called Public Fishing Areas, and a map that lets you define what types of fishing you are interested in, including Waters Containing Trout. Note that this maps shows the location of all types of trout waters, including spring stocking sites and streams where trout occur year-round.Many of the locations where these trout are stocked are classified as Family Friendly Lakes. You can find these lakes listed in the current Fishing Guide, and as one of the Public Fishing Area maps. These locations are considered safe, comfortable and have great fish catching potential. They will include a combination of barrier-free fishing piers, fishing trails, groomed park areas, concessions, playgrounds and picnic areas. Bring a comfortable chair, friend and snack to make a fun day of it.Trout generally will be found in open water away from the shoreline. Start fishing your chosen lake by floating bait under a bobber. Sometimes trout stay deep, so fish on the bottom if the bobber method isn’t working.Canned corn, small worms and dough baits work well. Casting a shiny spinner or spoon also is very effective at luring trout. Knowing how and where to fish comes with experience, but by observing or asking other anglers about what is working, you can improve your catching odds.If you are just getting into fishing and want more details, a helpful resource is Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.MvCBqNW3v7JR0wD-MAXf8Gzc5e_1cSSArdnDJr1e7cU/s/497221905/br/86104815970-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/howtofish</a>. For information on Fish Stocking, including the dates of upcoming trout stocking,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDE2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoc3RvY2tpbmdyZXBvcnRzLyJ9.G46FciexX8OBIcoIijr9oOzoKEfc-kA81gnrUmLgS-8/s/497221905/br/86104815970-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/fishstockingreports</a>.

In October, trout will be everywhere in Nebraska

Nebraskans are known for being honest, hard-working people who are fiscally responsible.&nbsp; This is a big part of how we’ve grown the Good Life and prospered through the years.&nbsp; Nebraskans are not only industrious, but we are also open-hearted and generous, charitably giving to churches and nonprofits.&nbsp; These strong civic and family values are at the core of who we are.&nbsp; It’s important that we never lose sight of them and guard against efforts to undermine them.

Attempts to legalize Indian casino gambling are a perennial threat to our values.&nbsp; Nebraskans have repeatedly rejected attempts to bring casinos to our state for a variety of reasons.&nbsp; These include more poverty due to gambling losses and the human toll of increased child abuse, neglect, and crimes such as theft.

First, casino gambling transfers wealth from lower-income families to the well-off instead of helping working families expand their household incomes and build real wealth.&nbsp; Through the mirage of easy winnings, casinos discourage financial responsibility and spread false hope.&nbsp; As with families, casinos also take money away from Main Street businesses and nonprofits, as people spend their discretionary income at the slots instead of investing it in the community.

Second, casinos often come with false promises of economic opportunity and tax relief.&nbsp; Supporters of gambling make grand claims that casinos will relieve poverty and generate huge revenues for the state.&nbsp; In reality, casinos fail to deliver on these promises.&nbsp; A study in the&nbsp;American Indian Law Journal&nbsp;examined casinos operated by over 20 Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest between 2000 and 2010.&nbsp; Originally touted as a solution to poverty, these casinos actually raised the mean poverty rate from 25% to 29%.&nbsp; For example, the Siletz tribe in Oregon saw its poverty rate balloon from 21% to 38% after a local casino opened. &nbsp;

The Open Door Mission in Omaha has seen firsthand the poverty caused by compulsive gambling.&nbsp; Before casinos came to Council Bluffs, only about nine percent of the homeless people Open Door serves came to them due to gambling.&nbsp; After the casinos, about 36 percent of those served say their homelessness is due to gambling addiction.

Over the years, pro-gambling advocates in Nebraska have been quick to insist that our state is losing revenues from gambling to Iowa, where casinos are legal.&nbsp; Casino supporters in Massachusetts used the same ploy to convince their state to legalize casinos in 2011.&nbsp; Yet in November 2019, the&nbsp;Boston Globe&nbsp;reported that casino revenues in Massachusetts have repeatedly fallen far short of projections.&nbsp; “During the years of debate over whether to allow casinos in Massachusetts, proponents invariably returned to this point: The state was losing out on a revenue jackpot enjoyed by Connecticut and other states where gambling was legal.&nbsp; But with the Massachusetts gaming industry up and running at three sites, the bonanza casino operators promised when they applied for licenses here has yet to materialize.” &nbsp;

The article went on to add that “The early shortfalls contrast sharply with the upbeat sales pitches casino companies made when they were seeking public support and regulatory approval.”&nbsp; The&nbsp;Globe’s story highlighted the national director of Stop Predatory Gambling, Les Bernal, who cautioned against the exaggerated revenue estimates of casino backers.&nbsp; “They deliberately oversell how much revenue they’re going to bring into the state, because there’s no merit to the business.”

These cautionary tales warn against believing the talking points of Indian gambling interests.&nbsp; Any revenues casinos bring to the state are dwarfed by the costs of dealing with the problems they unleash, such as forgery, fraud, and bankruptcy.&nbsp; Dr. Earl Grinols of Baylor estimates that for every $1 a community gains from casino gambling, it incurs $3 in social costs.&nbsp;

Third, the human toll of casinos is very real.&nbsp; Problem gamblers who frequent casinos often experience mental health issues and thoughts of suicide. &nbsp;The stress of gambling debts can provoke gambling addicts to steal from loved ones or to engage in domestic violence.&nbsp; The engrossing, addictive aspect of gambling can also lead problem gamblers to neglect their duties to care for their children or elderly dependents. &nbsp;Right now, Nebraska ranks as the fourth-least gambling-addicted state in America.&nbsp; If Indian casino gambling is ever introduced to our state, that could quickly change.

Nebraskans interested in learning more about the costs of gambling can read the most recent report from the Nebraska Gamblers Addiction Program by&nbsp;<a href="https://problemgambling.nebraska.gov/sites/problemgambling.nebraska.gov/files/GAP%20%20-%20MONTHLY%20DATA%20REPORT%20FOR%20WEBSITE%20-%20%20Commencing%20From%20July%201%202018%20to%20March%2031%202020%20-%205-20-2020.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;It documents the financial distress, suicidal tendencies, and self-professed shame encountered by Nebraskans with gambling disorders. &nbsp;Gambling has a downside, and it’s not pretty.&nbsp; We need to honestly confront the facts about what legalizing casinos would do to the Good Life.

If you want to know more about why I am so strongly opposed to gambling, I invite you to email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; It’s an old adage to “count the costs” before you begin to build.&nbsp; When it comes to casinos, the costs far outweigh the benefits—both financially and in terms of the well-being of Nebraskan families.

Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsNebraskans are known for being honest, hard-working people who are fiscally responsible.&nbsp; This is a big part of how we’ve grown the Good Life and prospered through the years.&nbsp; Nebraskans are not only industrious, but we are also open-hearted and generous, charitably giving to churches and nonprofits.&nbsp; These strong civic and family values are at the core of who we are.&nbsp; It’s important that we never lose sight of them and guard against efforts to undermine them.Attempts to legalize Indian casino gambling are a perennial threat to our values.&nbsp; Nebraskans have repeatedly rejected attempts to bring casinos to our state for a variety of reasons.&nbsp; These include more poverty due to gambling losses and the human toll of increased child abuse, neglect, and crimes such as theft.First, casino gambling transfers wealth from lower-income families to the well-off instead of helping working families expand their household incomes and build real wealth.&nbsp; Through the mirage of easy winnings, casinos discourage financial responsibility and spread false hope.&nbsp; As with families, casinos also take money away from Main Street businesses and nonprofits, as people spend their discretionary income at the slots instead of investing it in the community.Second, casinos often come with false promises of economic opportunity and tax relief.&nbsp; Supporters of gambling make grand claims that casinos will relieve poverty and generate huge revenues for the state.&nbsp; In reality, casinos fail to deliver on these promises.&nbsp; A study in the&nbsp;American Indian Law Journal&nbsp;examined casinos operated by over 20 Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest between 2000 and 2010.&nbsp; Originally touted as a solution to poverty, these casinos actually raised the mean poverty rate from 25% to 29%.&nbsp; For example, the Siletz tribe in Oregon saw its poverty rate balloon from 21% to 38% after a local casino opened. &nbsp;The Open Door Mission in Omaha has seen firsthand the poverty caused by compulsive gambling.&nbsp; Before casinos came to Council Bluffs, only about nine percent of the homeless people Open Door serves came to them due to gambling.&nbsp; After the casinos, about 36 percent of those served say their homelessness is due to gambling addiction.Over the years, pro-gambling advocates in Nebraska have been quick to insist that our state is losing revenues from gambling to Iowa, where casinos are legal.&nbsp; Casino supporters in Massachusetts used the same ploy to convince their state to legalize casinos in 2011.&nbsp; Yet in November 2019, the&nbsp;Boston Globe&nbsp;reported that casino revenues in Massachusetts have repeatedly fallen far short of projections.&nbsp; “During the years of debate over whether to allow casinos in Massachusetts, proponents invariably returned to this point: The state was losing out on a revenue jackpot enjoyed by Connecticut and other states where gambling was legal.&nbsp; But with the Massachusetts gaming industry up and running at three sites, the bonanza casino operators promised when they applied for licenses here has yet to materialize.” &nbsp;The article went on to add that “The early shortfalls contrast sharply with the upbeat sales pitches casino companies made when they were seeking public support and regulatory approval.”&nbsp; The&nbsp;Globe’s story highlighted the national director of Stop Predatory Gambling, Les Bernal, who cautioned against the exaggerated revenue estimates of casino backers.&nbsp; “They deliberately oversell how much revenue they’re going to bring into the state, because there’s no merit to the business.”These cautionary tales warn against believing the talking points of Indian gambling interests.&nbsp; Any revenues casinos bring to the state are dwarfed by the costs of dealing with the problems they unleash, such as forgery, fraud, and bankruptcy.&nbsp; Dr. Earl Grinols of Baylor estimates that for every $1 a community gains from casino gambling, it incurs $3 in social costs.&nbsp;Third, the human toll of casinos is very real.&nbsp; Problem gamblers who frequent casinos often experience mental health issues and thoughts of suicide. &nbsp;The stress of gambling debts can provoke gambling addicts to steal from loved ones or to engage in domestic violence.&nbsp; The engrossing, addictive aspect of gambling can also lead problem gamblers to neglect their duties to care for their children or elderly dependents. &nbsp;Right now, Nebraska ranks as the fourth-least gambling-addicted state in America.&nbsp; If Indian casino gambling is ever introduced to our state, that could quickly change.Nebraskans interested in learning more about the costs of gambling can read the most recent report from the Nebraska Gamblers Addiction Program by&nbsp;<a href="https://problemgambling.nebraska.gov/sites/problemgambling.nebraska.gov/files/GAP%20%20-%20MONTHLY%20DATA%20REPORT%20FOR%20WEBSITE%20-%20%20Commencing%20From%20July%201%202018%20to%20March%2031%202020%20-%205-20-2020.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;It documents the financial distress, suicidal tendencies, and self-professed shame encountered by Nebraskans with gambling disorders. &nbsp;Gambling has a downside, and it’s not pretty.&nbsp; We need to honestly confront the facts about what legalizing casinos would do to the Good Life.If you want to know more about why I am so strongly opposed to gambling, I invite you to email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; It’s an old adage to “count the costs” before you begin to build.&nbsp; When it comes to casinos, the costs far outweigh the benefits—both financially and in terms of the well-being of Nebraskan families.

COLUMN Gov. Ricketts: Gambling's real human toll

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials are defending the state's $27 million contract with a Utah company to provide coronavirus testing services that some lawmakers have questioned because it was hastily arranged without taking bids.

In early April, state labs were running short on testing supplies at the same time all states were trying to significantly increase testing for the virus, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/state-officials-defend-decision-to-contract-with-test-nebraska/article_5d132e13-11e2-522d-9f7a-c57d7c8dd3ba.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>. Doug Carlson, with the state's Department of Administrative Services, told Nebraska lawmakers Monday the state was having trouble finding testing supplies from either federal agencies or private vendors until Nomi Health offered to step in.

Carlson said Nomi Health had partnered with other companies to set up a testing program in its home state of Utah and had the supplies and equipment to set up a similar program in Nebraska.

So the state agreed to a no-bid contract to set up Test Nebraska and provide up to 540,000 tests over the next six months.

Some state lawmakers have questioned the speed and lack of bidding on that contract.

Lawmakers approved a resolution that Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha introduced calling for a study of the Test Nebraska program to determine what changes, if any, might be needed before the contract could be renewed next year. Cavanaugh said she wondered why experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and local health departments weren't consulted before Nomi Health was hired.

"This all came together over a very short period of time," Cavanaugh said.

So far, Test Nebraska has conducted more than 260,000 coronavirus tests, which is roughly half of all the tests done in the state. The program expects to have the capacity to do 6,000 tests per day soon after starting out with the capacity to do 150 tests a day.

Carlson said Test Nebraska was the only option available that would have allowed the state to increase its testing so rapidly, so the regular bidding process that can take more than a year wasn't an option.

The state's health department on Tuesday reported 515 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 and two more deaths, raising the state's case total since the pandemic started to 44,578 and its death toll to 472.

Nebraska has one of the highest rates of new cases of any state. The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in the state has risen over the past two weeks from 9.24% on Sept. 14 to 13.22% on Monday.

The state's seven-day rolling average of daily new cases has also risen over the past two weeks, from 349.86 new cases per day on Sept. 14 to 425.71 new cases per day on Monday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University's COVID-19 tracking project.

The state said 37% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 34% of intensive care beds, and 79% of the state's ventilators remain available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601417610314.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials are defending the state's $27 million contract with a Utah company to provide coronavirus testing services that some lawmakers have questioned because it was hastily arranged without taking bids.In early April, state labs were running short on testing supplies at the same time all states were trying to significantly increase testing for the virus, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/state-officials-defend-decision-to-contract-with-test-nebraska/article_5d132e13-11e2-522d-9f7a-c57d7c8dd3ba.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>. Doug Carlson, with the state's Department of Administrative Services, told Nebraska lawmakers Monday the state was having trouble finding testing supplies from either federal agencies or private vendors until Nomi Health offered to step in.Carlson said Nomi Health had partnered with other companies to set up a testing program in its home state of Utah and had the supplies and equipment to set up a similar program in Nebraska.So the state agreed to a no-bid contract to set up Test Nebraska and provide up to 540,000 tests over the next six months.Some state lawmakers have questioned the speed and lack of bidding on that contract.Lawmakers approved a resolution that Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha introduced calling for a study of the Test Nebraska program to determine what changes, if any, might be needed before the contract could be renewed next year. Cavanaugh said she wondered why experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and local health departments weren't consulted before Nomi Health was hired."This all came together over a very short period of time," Cavanaugh said.So far, Test Nebraska has conducted more than 260,000 coronavirus tests, which is roughly half of all the tests done in the state. The program expects to have the capacity to do 6,000 tests per day soon after starting out with the capacity to do 150 tests a day.Carlson said Test Nebraska was the only option available that would have allowed the state to increase its testing so rapidly, so the regular bidding process that can take more than a year wasn't an option.The state's health department on Tuesday reported 515 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 and two more deaths, raising the state's case total since the pandemic started to 44,578 and its death toll to 472.Nebraska has one of the highest rates of new cases of any state. The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in the state has risen over the past two weeks from 9.24% on Sept. 14 to 13.22% on Monday.The state's seven-day rolling average of daily new cases has also risen over the past two weeks, from 349.86 new cases per day on Sept. 14 to 425.71 new cases per day on Monday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University's COVID-19 tracking project.The state said 37% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 34% of intensive care beds, and 79% of the state's ventilators remain available.

Nebraska officials defend $27M virus testing contract

McCOOK, Neb. (AP) - A 79-year-old McCook woman who said she suffered abuse from her husband for decades has pleaded not guilty to killing him.

Lavetta C. Langdon is charged with first-degree murder and use of a deadly weapon in the Aug. 20 death of her husband, Larry Langdon, at their home in McCook. She entered her pleas Monday in Red Willow County Court.

Investigators said Lavetta Langdon shot her husband while he slept after he hit her twice with a fist while they argued, the McCook Gazette&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mccookgazette.com/story/2837958.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

She told investigators her husband&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f41497ee216915060f7d898fbc94c8be" target="_blank">had abused her</a>&nbsp;for 30 years.

The Langdons were married in 1960 in Kansas, divorced in Hitchcock County in 2011 and remarried in 2013.

Langdon's case was bound over to district court, She remains jailed on $5 million bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601417112833.png" alt="Lavetta Langdon" />
 <figcaption>Lavetta Langdon</figcaption>
 </figure>McCOOK, Neb. (AP) - A 79-year-old McCook woman who said she suffered abuse from her husband for decades has pleaded not guilty to killing him.Lavetta C. Langdon is charged with first-degree murder and use of a deadly weapon in the Aug. 20 death of her husband, Larry Langdon, at their home in McCook. She entered her pleas Monday in Red Willow County Court.Investigators said Lavetta Langdon shot her husband while he slept after he hit her twice with a fist while they argued, the McCook Gazette&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mccookgazette.com/story/2837958.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.She told investigators her husband&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f41497ee216915060f7d898fbc94c8be" target="_blank">had abused her</a>&nbsp;for 30 years.The Langdons were married in 1960 in Kansas, divorced in Hitchcock County in 2011 and remarried in 2013.Langdon's case was bound over to district court, She remains jailed on $5 million bond.

McCook woman pleads not guilty in husband's shooting death

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Police executed a search warrant at a North Platte motel and two people were arrested.

According to North Platte police, on September 28 at 11:26 AM officers developed sufficient intelligence to obtain a search warrant for a room at the Studio 6 Motel, 2701 Halligan Drive. 

According to Investigator John Deal, the warrant was for narcotics and was for a room rented out to and in the control of Trini Trejo and Melissa Hibbs.

Investigator Deal says officers executed the search warrant and located Trejo and Hibbs in the room.

Additionally, Deal says several baggies with suspected methamphetamine were located in the room along with paraphernalia, cash, a scale, and packaging materials.  A large fixed blade knife was also located in the room that was suspected to belong to Hibbs, according to Deal.

As a result of the search and the contents found in the room, Trejo was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. Hibbs was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, possession of a weapon during a drug transaction, and possession of a weapon by a prohibited person.

Both were jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601377516043.jpeg" alt="Trini Trejo" />
 <figcaption>Trini Trejo</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Police executed a search warrant at a North Platte motel and two people were arrested.According to North Platte police, on September 28 at 11:26 AM officers developed sufficient intelligence to obtain a search warrant for a room at the Studio 6 Motel, 2701 Halligan Drive. According to Investigator John Deal, the warrant was for narcotics and was for a room rented out to and in the control of Trini Trejo and Melissa Hibbs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601377599830.jpeg" alt="Melissa Hibbs" />
 <figcaption>Melissa Hibbs</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigator Deal says officers executed the search warrant and located Trejo and Hibbs in the room.Additionally, Deal says several baggies with suspected methamphetamine were located in the room along with paraphernalia, cash, a scale, and packaging materials. A large fixed blade knife was also located in the room that was suspected to belong to Hibbs, according to Deal.As a result of the search and the contents found in the room, Trejo was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. Hibbs was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, possession of a weapon during a drug transaction, and possession of a weapon by a prohibited person.Both were jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

Search warrant at North Platte motel leads to arrests for meth

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska will receive more than $46 million in federal money to help pay for repairs to roads and bridges that were needed after widespread flooding struck the state in the spring of 2019.

The federal money is part of $574 million in emergency aid announced Tuesday that the U.S. Transportation Department is distributing to 39 states and Puerto Rico.

Nebraska transportation officials have said the flooding in March 2019 forced the closure of 3,300 miles of highway in the state and damaged 27 bridges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592421758764.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska will receive more than $46 million in federal money to help pay for repairs to roads and bridges that were needed after widespread flooding struck the state in the spring of 2019.The federal money is part of $574 million in emergency aid announced Tuesday that the U.S. Transportation Department is distributing to 39 states and Puerto Rico.Nebraska transportation officials have said the flooding in March 2019 forced the closure of 3,300 miles of highway in the state and damaged 27 bridges.

Nebraska gets $46 million in federal money for road repairs

9.29.2020 NPHS Softball vs Gothenburg LIVESTREAM

LINCOLN, Neb. – As the waterfowl season approaches, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is reminding hunters to help prevent the spread of potentially damaging aquatic invasive species.

Zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, New Zealand mudsnails and other aquatic invasive species can “hitchhike” on hunting gear and be spread by droplets of water or tiny plant fragments. Aquatic invasive species cause irreparable harm to aquatic ecosystems and waterfowl habitat, severely impeding hunting, fishing and boating for future generations.

“By taking a few minutes to clean, drain and dry their gear, waterfowl hunters can ensure their favorite hunting spots remain preserved for the present and future,” said Kristopher Stahr, Game and Parks’ aquatic invasive species program manager. “By all of us doing our part, we can prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and protect our state’s waters.”

Game and Parks regulations require anglers, hunters and boaters conduct clean, drain and dry procedures after leaving a water body and prior to entering another. Hunters should remove any visible plants or mud from their gear and ensure all water is drained before leaving their hunting site. They also should clean their gear with high pressure or hot water and let it dry for at least five days before reusing.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDU2MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3N0b3BhcXVhdGljaGl0Y2hoaWtlcnMub3JnL3ByZXZlbnRpb24vI3dhdGVyZm93bC1odW50ZXJzIn0.j9zxnYWND_mRni8PPeLIjUlVAGYWQHJmlzU3YOZ_UTo/s/497221905/br/86108246242-l" target="_blank">stopaquatichitchhikers.org/prevention/#waterfowl-hunters</a>&nbsp;for details and for more information on aquatic invasive species.

Report any suspected observation of zebra mussels or other aquatic invasive species to Game and Parks at 531-500-3746 or at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDU2MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbmVpbnZhc2l2ZXMuY29tLyJ9.-D8MSdprv5TI1HXAlG4m1FHcMRVHYymXViPpXKcBa84/s/497221905/br/86108246242-l" target="_blank">neinvasives.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571333039832.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – As the waterfowl season approaches, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is reminding hunters to help prevent the spread of potentially damaging aquatic invasive species.Zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, New Zealand mudsnails and other aquatic invasive species can “hitchhike” on hunting gear and be spread by droplets of water or tiny plant fragments. Aquatic invasive species cause irreparable harm to aquatic ecosystems and waterfowl habitat, severely impeding hunting, fishing and boating for future generations.“By taking a few minutes to clean, drain and dry their gear, waterfowl hunters can ensure their favorite hunting spots remain preserved for the present and future,” said Kristopher Stahr, Game and Parks’ aquatic invasive species program manager. “By all of us doing our part, we can prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and protect our state’s waters.”Game and Parks regulations require anglers, hunters and boaters conduct clean, drain and dry procedures after leaving a water body and prior to entering another. Hunters should remove any visible plants or mud from their gear and ensure all water is drained before leaving their hunting site. They also should clean their gear with high pressure or hot water and let it dry for at least five days before reusing.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDU2MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3N0b3BhcXVhdGljaGl0Y2hoaWtlcnMub3JnL3ByZXZlbnRpb24vI3dhdGVyZm93bC1odW50ZXJzIn0.j9zxnYWND_mRni8PPeLIjUlVAGYWQHJmlzU3YOZ_UTo/s/497221905/br/86108246242-l" target="_blank">stopaquatichitchhikers.org/prevention/#waterfowl-hunters</a>&nbsp;for details and for more information on aquatic invasive species.Report any suspected observation of zebra mussels or other aquatic invasive species to Game and Parks at 531-500-3746 or at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA5MjkuMjc5MDU2MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vbmVpbnZhc2l2ZXMuY29tLyJ9.-D8MSdprv5TI1HXAlG4m1FHcMRVHYymXViPpXKcBa84/s/497221905/br/86108246242-l" target="_blank">neinvasives.com</a>.

Waterfowl hunters reminded to clean, drain, and dry to prevent spread of aquatic invasive species

Today is Tuesday, Sept. 29, the 273rd day of 2020. There are 93 days left in the year.

On Sept. 29, 2005, John G. Roberts Jr. was sworn in as the nation’s 17th chief justice after winning Senate confirmation.

In 1789, the U.S. War Department established a regular army with a strength of several hundred men.

In 1910, the National Urban League had its beginnings in New York as The Committee on Urban Conditions Among Negroes.

In 1918, Allied forces began their decisive breakthrough of the Hindenburg Line during World War I.

In 1938, British, French, German and Italian leaders concluded the Munich Agreement, which was aimed at appeasing Adolf Hitler by allowing Nazi annexation of Czechoslovakia’s Sudetenland.

In 1943, General Dwight D. Eisenhower and Italian Marshal Pietro Badoglio signed an armistice aboard the British ship HMS Nelson off Malta.

In 1962, Canada joined the space age as it launched the Alouette 1 satellite from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The musical “My Fair Lady” closed on Broadway after 2,717 performances.

In 1975, baseball manager Casey Stengel died in Glendale, California, at age 85.

In 1978, Pope John Paul I was found dead in his Vatican apartment just over a month after becoming head of the Roman Catholic Church.

In 1982, Extra-Strength Tylenol capsules laced with deadly cyanide claimed the first of seven victims in the Chicago area. (To date, the case remains unsolved.)

In 1999, The Associated Press reported on the killing of hundreds of South Korean refugees by U.S. soldiers in the early days of the Korean War, beneath a bridge at a hamlet called No Gun Ri. (In 2001, after its own investigation, the U.S. Army affirmed that killings had occurred, but said they were not deliberate.)

In 2000, Israeli riot police stormed a major Jerusalem shrine and opened fire on stone-throwing Muslim worshippers, killing four Palestinians and wounding 175.

In 2001, President George W. Bush condemned Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers for harboring Osama bin Laden and his followers as the United States pressed its military and diplomatic campaign against terror.

Ten years ago: Anti-austerity protests erupted across Europe; Greek doctors and railway employees walked off the job, Spanish workers shut down trains and buses, and one man rammed a cement truck into the Irish parliament to protest the country’s enormous bank bailouts. Actor Tony Curtis, 85, died in Henderson, Nevada.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama, hosting a U.N. gathering of world leaders, pledged all possible tools — military, intelligence and economic — to defeat the Islamic State group, but acknowledged the extremist group had taken root in Syria and Iraq, was resilient and was continuing to expand. NCAA banned the SMU men’s basketball team from the postseason and suspended coach Larry Brown for nine games, saying he had lied to investigators and ignored a case of academic fraud by a player.

One year ago: In an interview that aired on CBS’ “60 Minutes,” Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said he took “full responsibility” for the grisly killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, but he denied allegations that he had ordered it. Low-price fashion chain Forever 21, once a hot destination for teen shoppers, announced that it had filed for bankruptcy protection and said it would close as many as 178 stores.

Today’s Birthdays: Conductor Richard Bonynge is 90. Writer-director Robert Benton is 88. Singer Jerry Lee Lewis is 85. Soul-blues-gospel singer Sherman Holmes is 81. Former Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., is 78. Actor Ian McShane is 78. Jazz musician Jean-Luc Ponty is 78. Nobel Peace laureate Lech Walesa (lehk vah-WEN’-sah) is 77. Television-film composer Mike Post is 76. Actor Patricia Hodge is 74. TV personality Bryant Gumbel is 72. Rock singer-musician Mark Farner is 72. Rock singer-musician Mike Pinera is 72. Country singer Alvin Crow is 70. Actor Drake Hogestyn is 67. Olympic gold medal runner Sebastian Coe is 64. Singer Suzzy Roche (The Roches) is 64. Comedian-actor Andrew “Dice” Clay is 63. Rock singer John Payne (Asia) is 62. Actor Roger Bart is 58. Singer-musician Les Claypool is 57. Actor Jill Whelan is 54. Actor Ben Miles is 54. Actor Luke Goss is 52. Rock musician Brad Smith (Blind Melon) is 52. Actor Erika Eleniak is 51. Rhythm-and-blues singer Devante Swing (Jodeci) is 51. Country singer Brad Cotter (TV: “Nashville Star”) is 50. Actor Emily Lloyd is 50. Actor Natasha Gregson Wagner is 50. Actor Rachel Cronin is 49. Country musician Danick Dupelle (Emerson Drive) is 47. Actor Alexis Cruz is 46. Actor Zachary Levi is 40. Actor Chrissy Metz (TV: “This Is Us”) is 40. Actor Kelly McCreary (TV: “Grey’s Anatomy”) is 39. Country singer Katie McNeill (3 of Hearts) is 38. Rock musician Josh Farro is 33. NBA All-Star Kevin Durant is 32. Actor Doug Brochu is 30. Singer Phillip Phillips is 30. Pop singer Halsey is 26. Actor Clara Mamet is 26.

Today in HistoryToday is Tuesday, Sept. 29, the 273rd day of 2020. There are 93 days left in the year.Today’s Highlight in History:On Sept. 29, 2005, John G. Roberts Jr. was sworn in as the nation’s 17th chief justice after winning Senate confirmation.On this date:In 1789, the U.S. War Department established a regular army with a strength of several hundred men.In 1910, the National Urban League had its beginnings in New York as The Committee on Urban Conditions Among Negroes.In 1918, Allied forces began their decisive breakthrough of the Hindenburg Line during World War I.In 1938, British, French, German and Italian leaders concluded the Munich Agreement, which was aimed at appeasing Adolf Hitler by allowing Nazi annexation of Czechoslovakia’s Sudetenland.In 1943, General Dwight D. Eisenhower and Italian Marshal Pietro Badoglio signed an armistice aboard the British ship HMS Nelson off Malta.In 1962, Canada joined the space age as it launched the Alouette 1 satellite from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The musical “My Fair Lady” closed on Broadway after 2,717 performances.In 1975, baseball manager Casey Stengel died in Glendale, California, at age 85.In 1978, Pope John Paul I was found dead in his Vatican apartment just over a month after becoming head of the Roman Catholic Church.In 1982, Extra-Strength Tylenol capsules laced with deadly cyanide claimed the first of seven victims in the Chicago area. (To date, the case remains unsolved.)In 1999, The Associated Press reported on the killing of hundreds of South Korean refugees by U.S. soldiers in the early days of the Korean War, beneath a bridge at a hamlet called No Gun Ri. (In 2001, after its own investigation, the U.S. Army affirmed that killings had occurred, but said they were not deliberate.)In 2000, Israeli riot police stormed a major Jerusalem shrine and opened fire on stone-throwing Muslim worshippers, killing four Palestinians and wounding 175.In 2001, President George W. Bush condemned Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers for harboring Osama bin Laden and his followers as the United States pressed its military and diplomatic campaign against terror.Ten years ago: Anti-austerity protests erupted across Europe; Greek doctors and railway employees walked off the job, Spanish workers shut down trains and buses, and one man rammed a cement truck into the Irish parliament to protest the country’s enormous bank bailouts. Actor Tony Curtis, 85, died in Henderson, Nevada.Five years ago: President Barack Obama, hosting a U.N. gathering of world leaders, pledged all possible tools — military, intelligence and economic — to defeat the Islamic State group, but acknowledged the extremist group had taken root in Syria and Iraq, was resilient and was continuing to expand. NCAA banned the SMU men’s basketball team from the postseason and suspended coach Larry Brown for nine games, saying he had lied to investigators and ignored a case of academic fraud by a player.One year ago: In an interview that aired on CBS’ “60 Minutes,” Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said he took “full responsibility” for the grisly killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, but he denied allegations that he had ordered it. Low-price fashion chain Forever 21, once a hot destination for teen shoppers, announced that it had filed for bankruptcy protection and said it would close as many as 178 stores.Today’s Birthdays: Conductor Richard Bonynge is 90. Writer-director Robert Benton is 88. Singer Jerry Lee Lewis is 85. Soul-blues-gospel singer Sherman Holmes is 81. Former Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., is 78. Actor Ian McShane is 78. Jazz musician Jean-Luc Ponty is 78. Nobel Peace laureate Lech Walesa (lehk vah-WEN’-sah) is 77. Television-film composer Mike Post is 76. Actor Patricia Hodge is 74. TV personality Bryant Gumbel is 72. Rock singer-musician Mark Farner is 72. Rock singer-musician Mike Pinera is 72. Country singer Alvin Crow is 70. Actor Drake Hogestyn is 67. Olympic gold medal runner Sebastian Coe is 64. Singer Suzzy Roche (The Roches) is 64. Comedian-actor Andrew “Dice” Clay is 63. Rock singer John Payne (Asia) is 62. Actor Roger Bart is 58. Singer-musician Les Claypool is 57. Actor Jill Whelan is 54. Actor Ben Miles is 54. Actor Luke Goss is 52. Rock musician Brad Smith (Blind Melon) is 52. Actor Erika Eleniak is 51. Rhythm-and-blues singer Devante Swing (Jodeci) is 51. Country singer Brad Cotter (TV: “Nashville Star”) is 50. Actor Emily Lloyd is 50. Actor Natasha Gregson Wagner is 50. Actor Rachel Cronin is 49. Country musician Danick Dupelle (Emerson Drive) is 47. Actor Alexis Cruz is 46. Actor Zachary Levi is 40. Actor Chrissy Metz (TV: “This Is Us”) is 40. Actor Kelly McCreary (TV: “Grey’s Anatomy”) is 39. Country singer Katie McNeill (3 of Hearts) is 38. Rock musician Josh Farro is 33. NBA All-Star Kevin Durant is 32. Actor Doug Brochu is 30. Singer Phillip Phillips is 30. Pop singer Halsey is 26. Actor Clara Mamet is 26.

Today in History-September 29

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Supporters of medical marijuana launched a new campaign Monday to place the issue before voters in a future year after the Nebraska Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-ricketts-medical-marijuana-archive-nebraska-marijuana-b70ec858d83bc54f2756fca22517d948" target="_blank">blocked the measure</a>&nbsp;from appearing on the general election ballot.

Campaign activists submitted new paperwork to the secretary of state's office with simpler ballot language, in hopes of stopping the kind of court challenge that kept this year's measure off the ballot.

Supporters said they also plan to introduce a bill in the 2021 legislative session, although previous efforts to do so have failed amid opposition from conservatives.

Backers of the initiative&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/82b334f235a843ed90ad58550fff2aaf" target="_blank">announced in July</a>&nbsp;that they had gathered more than enough signatures to submit the issues to voters.

The secretary of state's office accepted the measure for placement on the ballot, but that decision was overturned after a lawsuit filed by opponents. Several prominent conservatives remained opposed to medical marijuana, including Gov. Pete Ricketts.

The deadline to certify the 2020 general election ballot has now passed.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Supporters of medical marijuana launched a new campaign Monday to place the issue before voters in a future year after the Nebraska Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-ricketts-medical-marijuana-archive-nebraska-marijuana-b70ec858d83bc54f2756fca22517d948" target="_blank">blocked the measure</a>&nbsp;from appearing on the general election ballot.Campaign activists submitted new paperwork to the secretary of state's office with simpler ballot language, in hopes of stopping the kind of court challenge that kept this year's measure off the ballot.Supporters said they also plan to introduce a bill in the 2021 legislative session, although previous efforts to do so have failed amid opposition from conservatives.Backers of the initiative&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/82b334f235a843ed90ad58550fff2aaf" target="_blank">announced in July</a>&nbsp;that they had gathered more than enough signatures to submit the issues to voters.The secretary of state's office accepted the measure for placement on the ballot, but that decision was overturned after a lawsuit filed by opponents. Several prominent conservatives remained opposed to medical marijuana, including Gov. Pete Ricketts.The deadline to certify the 2020 general election ballot has now passed.

Medical marijuana backers launch new campaign in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. – North Platte-area archers now have a venue to practice their sport as a public archery range has opened at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area.

Built by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and local volunteers, the range is free to use and open during daylight hours. A vehicle park entry permit is required.

Julie Geiser, a public information officer and instructor of outdoor skills for Game and Parks in North Platte, saw a need for an archery range.

“This is the only public archery range near North Platte, so we’re really excited to offer this for archery shooters to come and practice. I hope this will be a great asset to archery shooters in our community.”

The archery range is located west of the campground. It has seven square targets in wooden frames set at 10, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50 and 60 yards. It is available on a first-come, first-served basis and archers must bring their own equipment.

LINCOLN, Neb. – North Platte-area archers now have a venue to practice their sport as a public archery range has opened at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area.Built by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and local volunteers, the range is free to use and open during daylight hours. A vehicle park entry permit is required.Julie Geiser, a public information officer and instructor of outdoor skills for Game and Parks in North Platte, saw a need for an archery range.“This is the only public archery range near North Platte, so we’re really excited to offer this for archery shooters to come and practice. I hope this will be a great asset to archery shooters in our community.”The archery range is located west of the campground. It has seven square targets in wooden frames set at 10, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50 and 60 yards. It is available on a first-come, first-served basis and archers must bring their own equipment.

Public archery range open at Buffalo Bill Ranch SRA

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska on Monday began sending notices to thousands of felons informing them of their right to vote after learning of a case in which the state incorrectly notified an Omaha man that he wasn't eligible to cast a ballot.

The ACLU launched the public awareness project to ensure felons know whether or not they're qualified to vote in the upcoming general election. The group said it plans to mail nearly 9,000 voting rights packets to county jails and the homes of residents who received disqualification notices from election officials.

Nebraska allows felons to vote after a two-year waiting period that begins once they've finished their sentence as well as any parole or probation.

"Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and the right upon which all civil liberties rest," said Adam Sipple, legal director of the ACLU of Nebraska. "When it comes to communication about voting rights, the acceptable error rate is zero. It shouldn't happen."

The ACLU said its review found that some people who received disqualification notices had completed their sentence well beyond the two-year limitation. Others had felony charges that were later reduced to misdemeanors or dismissed. Still others were wrongfully disqualified from casting a ballot because they were given an "unsatisfactory" release from probation - a circumstance that doesn't affect their right to vote under state law.

Caught in the confusion was Walter Wolff, an Omaha man who was erroneously told he couldn't vote in the upcoming general election because of his status as a felon.

Wolff, 68, was released from prison in March 2017 for fourth-offense driving under the influence, but went through a treatment program and hasn't reoffended since. He said he was shocked and angry when election officials denied his request for a ballot because he knew he was eligible.

"It was kind of like they were doing everything they could to make sure I would never vote again," Wolff said in an interview. "A lot of people have died for this country so I could vote. It's my duty to do it to pay them this respect for defending that right."

A spokeswoman for Secretary of State Bob Evnen said state election officials are reviewing the ACLU of Nebraska's findings and will correct any errors before the election. The ACLU of Nebraska obtained the names of those who had been disqualified through a public records request.

Cindi Allen, a spokeswoman for Evnen, said anyone whose name doesn't appear on the state voter registry can still cast a provisional ballot at their polling place. Election officials would determine later whether the person was eligible to vote and thus whether the ballot should be counted.

Nebraska is one of 11 states that either require a waiting period for felons beyond the completion of parole or probation or don't restore voting rights at all, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Another 21 states reinstate voting rights for felons as soon as they finish parole or probation, and 16 other states and the District of Columbia restore those rights as soon as an inmate is released from prison. Two states, Maine and Vermont, allow felons to vote while incarcerated.

The ACLU called Nebraska's two-year waiting period "arbitrary" and said it's a frequent source of questions and confusion for voters and election officials. Other states have faced similar problems, including one case in Iowa in which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/07409d1e264549f093a554b38ccd82f3" target="_blank">a man was arrested because of a bureaucratic error</a>&nbsp;that placed him on the state's list of ineligible felon voters.

The ACLU said the restriction disproportionately affects Black Nebraskans and other minorities, who make up a larger share of the state's prison population.

"Since the arbitrary two-year rule is continually confusing to members of the public and election officials, it's important every Nebraskan who has questions works through this carefully with their local election officials and ACLU if need be," said Danielle Conrad, the group's executive director. "The Nebraska voters and local election officials we talk to want to do the right thing, that's why it's important to work together to make sure every eligible voter can participate."

Nebraska lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/af0e6329331a412db89217847d426e8a" target="_blank">passed a measure in 2017</a>&nbsp;to eliminate the two-year waiting period so that felons could vote as soon as their sentence ends, but Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts vetoed it and senators couldn't muster enough votes for an override.

Ricketts argued in his veto letter that many felons reoffend shortly after they're released from prison, and the waiting period gives them an incentive to maintain a clean record. He also contended that the bill violates the Nebraska Constitution by restoring a civil rights to felons, a power delegated to the state pardons board.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska on Monday began sending notices to thousands of felons informing them of their right to vote after learning of a case in which the state incorrectly notified an Omaha man that he wasn't eligible to cast a ballot.The ACLU launched the public awareness project to ensure felons know whether or not they're qualified to vote in the upcoming general election. The group said it plans to mail nearly 9,000 voting rights packets to county jails and the homes of residents who received disqualification notices from election officials.Nebraska allows felons to vote after a two-year waiting period that begins once they've finished their sentence as well as any parole or probation."Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and the right upon which all civil liberties rest," said Adam Sipple, legal director of the ACLU of Nebraska. "When it comes to communication about voting rights, the acceptable error rate is zero. It shouldn't happen."The ACLU said its review found that some people who received disqualification notices had completed their sentence well beyond the two-year limitation. Others had felony charges that were later reduced to misdemeanors or dismissed. Still others were wrongfully disqualified from casting a ballot because they were given an "unsatisfactory" release from probation - a circumstance that doesn't affect their right to vote under state law.Caught in the confusion was Walter Wolff, an Omaha man who was erroneously told he couldn't vote in the upcoming general election because of his status as a felon.Wolff, 68, was released from prison in March 2017 for fourth-offense driving under the influence, but went through a treatment program and hasn't reoffended since. He said he was shocked and angry when election officials denied his request for a ballot because he knew he was eligible."It was kind of like they were doing everything they could to make sure I would never vote again," Wolff said in an interview. "A lot of people have died for this country so I could vote. It's my duty to do it to pay them this respect for defending that right."A spokeswoman for Secretary of State Bob Evnen said state election officials are reviewing the ACLU of Nebraska's findings and will correct any errors before the election. The ACLU of Nebraska obtained the names of those who had been disqualified through a public records request.Cindi Allen, a spokeswoman for Evnen, said anyone whose name doesn't appear on the state voter registry can still cast a provisional ballot at their polling place. Election officials would determine later whether the person was eligible to vote and thus whether the ballot should be counted.Nebraska is one of 11 states that either require a waiting period for felons beyond the completion of parole or probation or don't restore voting rights at all, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.Another 21 states reinstate voting rights for felons as soon as they finish parole or probation, and 16 other states and the District of Columbia restore those rights as soon as an inmate is released from prison. Two states, Maine and Vermont, allow felons to vote while incarcerated.The ACLU called Nebraska's two-year waiting period "arbitrary" and said it's a frequent source of questions and confusion for voters and election officials. Other states have faced similar problems, including one case in Iowa in which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/07409d1e264549f093a554b38ccd82f3" target="_blank">a man was arrested because of a bureaucratic error</a>&nbsp;that placed him on the state's list of ineligible felon voters.The ACLU said the restriction disproportionately affects Black Nebraskans and other minorities, who make up a larger share of the state's prison population."Since the arbitrary two-year rule is continually confusing to members of the public and election officials, it's important every Nebraskan who has questions works through this carefully with their local election officials and ACLU if need be," said Danielle Conrad, the group's executive director. "The Nebraska voters and local election officials we talk to want to do the right thing, that's why it's important to work together to make sure every eligible voter can participate."Nebraska lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/af0e6329331a412db89217847d426e8a" target="_blank">passed a measure in 2017</a>&nbsp;to eliminate the two-year waiting period so that felons could vote as soon as their sentence ends, but Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts vetoed it and senators couldn't muster enough votes for an override.Ricketts argued in his veto letter that many felons reoffend shortly after they're released from prison, and the waiting period gives them an incentive to maintain a clean record. He also contended that the bill violates the Nebraska Constitution by restoring a civil rights to felons, a power delegated to the state pardons board.

New effort seeks to protect Nebraska felon voting rights

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601314616763.png" alt="police activity september 25 to 28 2020.png" />
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North Platte Police Call Log (September 25-28, 2020)

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

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

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

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

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

The Governor’s Wellness Award has three categories:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gov. Ricketts honors 2020 Governor's Wellness Award recipients

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Platte Public Library announces changes effective October 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

Union Pacific ranked as Top 10 'Military Friendly Employer'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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