SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A state jail oversight board has found that a western Nebraska county jail is not in compliance with reporting requirements to the state, and at least one local official is blaming the matter on a private vendor.

The director of Nebraska Jail Standards sent a letter on Aug. 4 to Scotts Bluff County officials regarding the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center, the Scottsbluff Star-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://starherald.com/news/local_news/state-cites-detention-center-for-records-issue/article_1cda9367-8e7c-58ba-9d5d-fb0d55de8187.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. The letter said an annual review found the jail hasn't complied with providing electronic records on arrests and releases for each inmate.

Sheriff Mark Overman, who oversees the jail, said the information is being gathered and logged, but not in a format the state can process.

Overman blamed Sioux Falls-based Zuercher Technologies, the company the county hired to send compliance records to the state. A message left Wednesday by The Associated Press for a manager at Zuercher Technologies was not immediately returned.

Overman said the county contracted two years ago with Zuercher two years ago after an extensive bidding process. Zuercher also provides dispatch services and record management for Scottsbluff and Gering police and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Department, Overman said.

"Frankly, we pay Zuercher a lot of money and they are out of compliance with our contract," he said.

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A state jail oversight board has found that a western Nebraska county jail is not in compliance with reporting requirements to the state, and at least one local official is blaming the matter on a private vendor.The director of Nebraska Jail Standards sent a letter on Aug. 4 to Scotts Bluff County officials regarding the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center, the Scottsbluff Star-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://starherald.com/news/local_news/state-cites-detention-center-for-records-issue/article_1cda9367-8e7c-58ba-9d5d-fb0d55de8187.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. The letter said an annual review found the jail hasn't complied with providing electronic records on arrests and releases for each inmate.Sheriff Mark Overman, who oversees the jail, said the information is being gathered and logged, but not in a format the state can process.Overman blamed Sioux Falls-based Zuercher Technologies, the company the county hired to send compliance records to the state. A message left Wednesday by The Associated Press for a manager at Zuercher Technologies was not immediately returned.Overman said the county contracted two years ago with Zuercher two years ago after an extensive bidding process. Zuercher also provides dispatch services and record management for Scottsbluff and Gering police and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Department, Overman said."Frankly, we pay Zuercher a lot of money and they are out of compliance with our contract," he said.

Scotts Bluff County told jail not in compliance with state

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The popularity of oatmilk, the fastest-growing plant-based milk product, continues to soar, and today marks a major moment for fans of the popular dairy alternative or anyone eager to experience the rich, creamy taste of oatmilk for the first time. Dunkin’ is bringing oatmilk coast-to-coast, adding&nbsp;vegan-friendly*, gluten-free oatmilk to menus at all of its restaurants nationwide. Launching with&nbsp;<a href="https://planetoat.com/" target="_blank">Planet Oat</a>, the market leader in oatmilk, Dunkin’ is now one of the first national quick service restaurant brands to make oatmilk available at 100% of its U.S. locations.&nbsp;To make the exciting announcement to fans, Dunkin’ turned to actress and vegan foodie Tabitha Brown, who revealed Planet Oat Oatmilk’s arrival with a special&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CEElzNOHNWb/" target="_blank">Instagram post</a>&nbsp;this morning.&nbsp;

Planet Oat Oatmilk is a delicious, high-quality plant-based dairy alternative that starts with oats and water, which is then blended with vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients for a creamy texture and light sweetness. Dunkin’ guests can add Planet Oat Oatmilk to any Dunkin’ beverage in place of milk, almondmilk, or cream. This includes Dunkin’s&nbsp;new Iced Oatmilk Latte&nbsp;– made with rich, handcrafted espresso and creamy oatmilk for a tasty twist on the brand’s beloved lattes – as well as its full lineup of&nbsp;hot, iced, and frozen coffee, espresso drinks, and specialty beverages such as Chai and Matcha Lattes. Oatmilk may be an additional charge.&nbsp;

Dunkin’ began offering oatmilk at participating restaurants in California at the start of 2020. Dunkin’s introduction of oatmilk continues the brand’s commitment to bringing innovative and exciting new on-the-go menu choices to busy Americans everywhere. Dunkin’ distinguished itself for making plant-based menu options easily accessible with last year’s launch of the Beyond&nbsp;Sausage®&nbsp;Sandwich. Earlier this year, Dunkin’ added Matcha Lattes to its national menu and has been offering almondmilk as a dairy alternative option since 2014.&nbsp;

According to Jill Nelson, Vice President, Marketing Strategy at Dunkin’, “Dunkin’ is proud to stand apart as the brand that democratizes trends and finds new and innovative ways to keep Americans running. Bringing Planet Oat Oatmilk to Dunkin’ locations across the country is another way we are reinforcing our commitment to providing guests with more choices to customize their favorite coffee and espresso drinks.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Americans are always looking for new beverage options that easily fit into their dietary needs and specific tastes. The launch of Planet Oat as the official oatmilk of Dunkin’ represents an exciting moment for both of our companies and gives coffee lovers everywhere the flexibility to transform their favorite drinks into delicious, plant-based alternatives. We look forward to helping Dunkin’ continue to bring new choices to its menu, and serve millions of people oatmilk options that are inclusive for all,” said&nbsp;Chris&nbsp;Ross, Sr. Vice President, Marketing and R&amp;D, at HP&nbsp;Hood&nbsp;LLC.&nbsp;

Today’s national oatmilk launch coincides with the availability of Dunkin’s much-anticipated fall menu. The brand’s robust seasonal lineup this year&nbsp;features pumpkin flavored and spiced drinks, such as the new Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte and Chai Latte, paired perfectly with new snacking options such as Stuffed Bagel Minis, Steak &amp; Cheese Rollups, and Maple Sugar Seasoned Snackin’ Bacon. Dunkin’ is making its fall beverages and bite-sized baked goods available earlier than ever before to help fans capture the warm, cozy feelings of the season now.&nbsp;

To learn more about Dunkin’, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dunkindonuts.com/" target="_blank">www.DunkinDonuts.com</a>&nbsp;or subscribe to the Dunkin’ blog to receive notifications at&nbsp;<a href="https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog" target="_blank">https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog</a>.&nbsp;

*Dunkin’s definition of a vegan menu item is a food or beverage with no animal sources: no meat, fish, shellfish, milk, egg or honey products, and no enzymes and rennet from animal sources. All Dunkin’ menu items (vegan and non-vegan) are prepared in the same area. Dunkin’ cannot guarantee that there will be no cross-contact between products or ingredients.&nbsp;

About Dunkin' Founded in 1950, Dunkin' is America's favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin' is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced regular/decaf/flavored coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin' has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by&nbsp;Brand Keys&nbsp;for 14 years running. The company has more than 13,100 restaurants in 41 countries worldwide. Based in&nbsp;Canton, Mass., Dunkin' is part of the Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thank-goodness-its-free-donut-fridays-at-dunkin-301014654.html#financial-modal" target="_blank">DNKN</a>) family of companies. For&nbsp;more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=2736007-1&amp;h=79845460&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dunkindonuts.com%2F&amp;a=www.DunkinDonuts.com" target="_blank">www.DunkinDonuts.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The popularity of oatmilk, the fastest-growing plant-based milk product, continues to soar, and today marks a major moment for fans of the popular dairy alternative or anyone eager to experience the rich, creamy taste of oatmilk for the first time. Dunkin’ is bringing oatmilk coast-to-coast, adding&nbsp;vegan-friendly*, gluten-free oatmilk to menus at all of its restaurants nationwide. Launching with&nbsp;<a href="https://planetoat.com/" target="_blank">Planet Oat</a>, the market leader in oatmilk, Dunkin’ is now one of the first national quick service restaurant brands to make oatmilk available at 100% of its U.S. locations.&nbsp;To make the exciting announcement to fans, Dunkin’ turned to actress and vegan foodie Tabitha Brown, who revealed Planet Oat Oatmilk’s arrival with a special&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CEElzNOHNWb/" target="_blank">Instagram post</a>&nbsp;this morning.&nbsp;Planet Oat Oatmilk is a delicious, high-quality plant-based dairy alternative that starts with oats and water, which is then blended with vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients for a creamy texture and light sweetness. Dunkin’ guests can add Planet Oat Oatmilk to any Dunkin’ beverage in place of milk, almondmilk, or cream. This includes Dunkin’s&nbsp;new Iced Oatmilk Latte&nbsp;– made with rich, handcrafted espresso and creamy oatmilk for a tasty twist on the brand’s beloved lattes – as well as its full lineup of&nbsp;hot, iced, and frozen coffee, espresso drinks, and specialty beverages such as Chai and Matcha Lattes. Oatmilk may be an additional charge.&nbsp;Dunkin’ began offering oatmilk at participating restaurants in California at the start of 2020. Dunkin’s introduction of oatmilk continues the brand’s commitment to bringing innovative and exciting new on-the-go menu choices to busy Americans everywhere. Dunkin’ distinguished itself for making plant-based menu options easily accessible with last year’s launch of the Beyond&nbsp;Sausage®&nbsp;Sandwich. Earlier this year, Dunkin’ added Matcha Lattes to its national menu and has been offering almondmilk as a dairy alternative option since 2014.&nbsp;According to Jill Nelson, Vice President, Marketing Strategy at Dunkin’, “Dunkin’ is proud to stand apart as the brand that democratizes trends and finds new and innovative ways to keep Americans running. Bringing Planet Oat Oatmilk to Dunkin’ locations across the country is another way we are reinforcing our commitment to providing guests with more choices to customize their favorite coffee and espresso drinks.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“Americans are always looking for new beverage options that easily fit into their dietary needs and specific tastes. The launch of Planet Oat as the official oatmilk of Dunkin’ represents an exciting moment for both of our companies and gives coffee lovers everywhere the flexibility to transform their favorite drinks into delicious, plant-based alternatives. We look forward to helping Dunkin’ continue to bring new choices to its menu, and serve millions of people oatmilk options that are inclusive for all,” said&nbsp;Chris&nbsp;Ross, Sr. Vice President, Marketing and R&amp;D, at HP&nbsp;Hood&nbsp;LLC.&nbsp;Today’s national oatmilk launch coincides with the availability of Dunkin’s much-anticipated fall menu. The brand’s robust seasonal lineup this year&nbsp;features pumpkin flavored and spiced drinks, such as the new Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte and Chai Latte, paired perfectly with new snacking options such as Stuffed Bagel Minis, Steak &amp; Cheese Rollups, and Maple Sugar Seasoned Snackin’ Bacon. Dunkin’ is making its fall beverages and bite-sized baked goods available earlier than ever before to help fans capture the warm, cozy feelings of the season now.&nbsp;To learn more about Dunkin’, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dunkindonuts.com/" target="_blank">www.DunkinDonuts.com</a>&nbsp;or subscribe to the Dunkin’ blog to receive notifications at&nbsp;<a href="https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog" target="_blank">https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog</a>.&nbsp;*Dunkin’s definition of a vegan menu item is a food or beverage with no animal sources: no meat, fish, shellfish, milk, egg or honey products, and no enzymes and rennet from animal sources. All Dunkin’ menu items (vegan and non-vegan) are prepared in the same area. Dunkin’ cannot guarantee that there will be no cross-contact between products or ingredients.&nbsp;####&nbsp;About Dunkin' Founded in 1950, Dunkin' is America's favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin' is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced regular/decaf/flavored coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin' has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by&nbsp;Brand Keys&nbsp;for 14 years running. The company has more than 13,100 restaurants in 41 countries worldwide. Based in&nbsp;Canton, Mass., Dunkin' is part of the Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thank-goodness-its-free-donut-fridays-at-dunkin-301014654.html#financial-modal" target="_blank">DNKN</a>) family of companies. For&nbsp;more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=2736007-1&amp;h=79845460&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dunkindonuts.com%2F&amp;a=www.DunkinDonuts.com" target="_blank">www.DunkinDonuts.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oatmilk to be offered at Dunkin' stores nationwide

BROKEN BOW, Neb. (AP) - An Elmwood man has pleaded no contest to stealing from the Custer County trucking company where he had worked.

Raymond Wolcott, 34, entered the plea to felony theft and was found guilty earlier this month, the Kearney Hub reported. Prosecutors said Wolcott forged Johnson Trucking checks and deposited more than $6,300 into his personal checking account between May and August 2018.

Wolcott was originally charged with felony theft of more than $5,000, but the charge was reduced in exchange for his no contest plea, in which the defendant doesn't admit guilt but acknowledges there is enough evidence to win a conviction.

Wolcott faces up to two years in prison when he's sentenced Sept. 10. He is currently free on $1,500 cash bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597855724594.png" alt="Raymond Wolcott" />
 <figcaption>Raymond Wolcott</figcaption>
 </figure>BROKEN BOW, Neb. (AP) - An Elmwood man has pleaded no contest to stealing from the Custer County trucking company where he had worked.Raymond Wolcott, 34, entered the plea to felony theft and was found guilty earlier this month, the Kearney Hub reported. Prosecutors said Wolcott forged Johnson Trucking checks and deposited more than $6,300 into his personal checking account between May and August 2018.Wolcott was originally charged with felony theft of more than $5,000, but the charge was reduced in exchange for his no contest plea, in which the defendant doesn't admit guilt but acknowledges there is enough evidence to win a conviction.Wolcott faces up to two years in prison when he's sentenced Sept. 10. He is currently free on $1,500 cash bond.

Elwood man pleads no contest to stealing from Nebraska trucking company

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — An investigation into sex trafficking at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has resulted in the arrest of eight men in South Dakota. 

U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons has announced that two of the men had been arrested on charges of attempting commercial sex trafficking of a minor.

 Six others were arrested for attempting to entice a minor using the internet.

 The investigation was conducted by both federal and South Dakota law enforcement officers and operated for the entire duration of the 10-day rally. 

The annual event was expected to draw at least 250,000 people to western South Dakota.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — An investigation into sex trafficking at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has resulted in the arrest of eight men in South Dakota. U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons has announced that two of the men had been arrested on charges of attempting commercial sex trafficking of a minor. Six others were arrested for attempting to entice a minor using the internet. The investigation was conducted by both federal and South Dakota law enforcement officers and operated for the entire duration of the 10-day rally. The annual event was expected to draw at least 250,000 people to western South Dakota.

Eight arrested in sex trafficking investigation at Sturgis

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NDOT: 28 people died on Nebraska roadways in July

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597803949003.png" alt="Provided by the North Platte Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Provided by the North Platte Police Department</figcaption>
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North Platte Police Call Log (August 17-18, 2020)

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A crop duster pilot suffered serious injuries when he crashed his plane into a cornfield north of Scottsbluff Tuesday morning and knocked out power to 2,400 utility customers.

Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said the plane hit a power line as it crashed, causing the power outage. The power line hit the cab of a semi hauling a load of cattle, but the driver and the cattle were not injured.

The plane's pilot was taken to a hospital for treatment of his injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening.

Nebraska Public Power District spokesman Mark Becker said the crash knocked down several transmission line structures.

The plane was owned by Western Aviation. Company officials declined to comment on the crash.

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - A crop duster pilot suffered serious injuries when he crashed his plane into a cornfield north of Scottsbluff Tuesday morning and knocked out power to 2,400 utility customers.Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said the plane hit a power line as it crashed, causing the power outage. The power line hit the cab of a semi hauling a load of cattle, but the driver and the cattle were not injured.The plane's pilot was taken to a hospital for treatment of his injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening.Nebraska Public Power District spokesman Mark Becker said the crash knocked down several transmission line structures.The plane was owned by Western Aviation. Company officials declined to comment on the crash.

Pilot hurt when crop duster crashes and knocks out power in western Nebraska

News Release Kearney Police Department

KEARNEY, Neb.-As an innovative, contemporary, Law Enforcement Agency, the Kearney Police Department is always looking for ways to leverage technology in the delivery of professional police service. With this in mind, the department recently purchased two TruNarc Handheld Narcotics Analyzers from Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.  

The use of and possession of illicit narcotics and opioids continue to skyrocket throughout the United States. The potential exposure to lethal drugs like fentanyl threatens public safety. The need to identify these banned substances safely and accurately has never been more important. The TruNarc scanner will allow officers to rapidly identify drugs safely. 

Traditionally, unknown substances located and seized by Police Officers in the field are tested using field test kits that require the substance to be removed from packaging, possibly exposing the officer to dangerous substances. The TruNarc scanner allows the officer to identify the substance with no direct contact with the unknown, potentially dangerous substance. Officers are required to be trained and certified prior to using the device.  

“The safety of our Police Officers and our community is a top priority at KPD, this technology will serve to prevent potential life-threatening exposure to unknown substances by our officers, while also providing accurate field testing and identification.” - Chief Bryan D. Waugh 

The opportunity to add this valuable resource was made possible thanks to a generous, anonymous donation to the Kearney Police Department.    

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597783081393.png" alt="Photo: Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc." />
 <figcaption>Photo: Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Kearney Police DepartmentKEARNEY, Neb.-As an innovative, contemporary, Law Enforcement Agency, the Kearney Police Department is always looking for ways to leverage technology in the delivery of professional police service. With this in mind, the department recently purchased two TruNarc Handheld Narcotics Analyzers from Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. The use of and possession of illicit narcotics and opioids continue to skyrocket throughout the United States. The potential exposure to lethal drugs like fentanyl threatens public safety. The need to identify these banned substances safely and accurately has never been more important. The TruNarc scanner will allow officers to rapidly identify drugs safely. Traditionally, unknown substances located and seized by Police Officers in the field are tested using field test kits that require the substance to be removed from packaging, possibly exposing the officer to dangerous substances. The TruNarc scanner allows the officer to identify the substance with no direct contact with the unknown, potentially dangerous substance. Officers are required to be trained and certified prior to using the device. “The safety of our Police Officers and our community is a top priority at KPD, this technology will serve to prevent potential life-threatening exposure to unknown substances by our officers, while also providing accurate field testing and identification.” - Chief Bryan D. Waugh The opportunity to add this valuable resource was made possible thanks to a generous, anonymous donation to the Kearney Police Department.

Kearney police deploy TruNarc Handheld Narcotics Analyzers

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) have reported 20 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Tuesday.

13 cases are considered close contacts. 7 cases are under investigation

3 of the cases are from 8/18/2020 (today).

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

<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR1b7XzXa4jNlx2ZaGRimDbMqpPJi5o39Ekke4_nvTWdsQiVcVqSHYg_TmI#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) have reported 20 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Tuesday.WCHDH provided the following breakdown:All cases are from Lincoln County13 cases are considered close contacts. 7 cases are under investigation17 of the cases are from 8/17/20203 of the cases are from 8/18/2020 (today).*PLEASE NOTE: The weekly positivity rate on the dashboard is based on live data. You will see changes to the weekly number due to the fact that this is live data. We will report and make changes as we get additional data from the state system. This section is currently being worked on. You can still find our overall positivity rate in the table on the first page of the dashboard.<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR1b7XzXa4jNlx2ZaGRimDbMqpPJi5o39Ekke4_nvTWdsQiVcVqSHYg_TmI#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
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20 new positive cases in WCDHD jurisdiction reported on Tuesday, all in Lincoln County

When the fall semester begins next week at Mid-Plains Community College it will look different from any other semester in history.

MPCC officials have spent months consulting with state and area health officials to prepare for the resumption of on-campus instruction. Classes were moved to remote formats in March to limit exposure to the coronavirus, and the hope is that won’t have to happen again.

“We will continue to make every attempt to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said MPCC President Ryan Purdy. “In anticipation of the arrival of more than 40 international students and more than 20 states being represented on one of our campuses, compliance with the required safety precautions will be of the utmost importance for our campuses to remain open for the entire fall semester.”

Numerous safeguards have been put into place to protect students, employees and the public from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. That includes staggering move-in times so that not all students arrive on campus at once.

Thursday is the day for new students to move to campus while returning students will be back on Saturday. All students will be contacted ahead of time to make sure they are not running fevers, are not showing symptoms of COVID, have not been exposed to someone with COVID and have not been asked to quarantine.

Once at the college, students will find that the dining halls, lobbies and lounges have been reconfigured to promote social distancing. Signs reminding them to social distance, wear masks, wash hands frequently and stay home if sick are posted throughout buildings at all campus locations.

Students will be required to wear masks covering their mouths and noses in all indoor public areas of the college when 6-feet of social distance cannot be maintained. That includes commons areas, restrooms, elevators, hallways, lobbies and outside.

Dining on campus will be one of the exceptions, however, students will be encouraged to eat in their dorm rooms. Guests will not be allowed to join them there.

Protective barriers in the form of plastic shields have been implemented at MPCC’s Welcome Centers, advising desks and other locations where there might be frequent face-to-face conversations.

All facilities will be disinfected daily, and hand sanitizer will be available in classrooms and public spaces.

As outlined in the governor’s Directed Health Measures (DHM) regarding travel, international students must quarantine for a minimum of 14 days and be symptom-free before they will be released to participate in normal campus activities.

The college has housing units set aside as quarantine spaces as needed for students who may test positive for or have been exposed to COVID-19.

Those students will continue to receive daily meals and regular laundry services, will go through a daily health screening and will have their mental health assessed throughout their stay. No additional fees will be charged.

More information about the college’s response to COVID-19 can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/mpcccovid-19update" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/mpcccovid-19update</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597782091674.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By Heather Johnson-MPCCWhen the fall semester begins next week at Mid-Plains Community College it will look different from any other semester in history.MPCC officials have spent months consulting with state and area health officials to prepare for the resumption of on-campus instruction. Classes were moved to remote formats in March to limit exposure to the coronavirus, and the hope is that won’t have to happen again.“We will continue to make every attempt to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said MPCC President Ryan Purdy. “In anticipation of the arrival of more than 40 international students and more than 20 states being represented on one of our campuses, compliance with the required safety precautions will be of the utmost importance for our campuses to remain open for the entire fall semester.”Numerous safeguards have been put into place to protect students, employees and the public from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. That includes staggering move-in times so that not all students arrive on campus at once.Thursday is the day for new students to move to campus while returning students will be back on Saturday. All students will be contacted ahead of time to make sure they are not running fevers, are not showing symptoms of COVID, have not been exposed to someone with COVID and have not been asked to quarantine.Once at the college, students will find that the dining halls, lobbies and lounges have been reconfigured to promote social distancing. Signs reminding them to social distance, wear masks, wash hands frequently and stay home if sick are posted throughout buildings at all campus locations.Students will be required to wear masks covering their mouths and noses in all indoor public areas of the college when 6-feet of social distance cannot be maintained. That includes commons areas, restrooms, elevators, hallways, lobbies and outside.Dining on campus will be one of the exceptions, however, students will be encouraged to eat in their dorm rooms. Guests will not be allowed to join them there.Protective barriers in the form of plastic shields have been implemented at MPCC’s Welcome Centers, advising desks and other locations where there might be frequent face-to-face conversations.All facilities will be disinfected daily, and hand sanitizer will be available in classrooms and public spaces.As outlined in the governor’s Directed Health Measures (DHM) regarding travel, international students must quarantine for a minimum of 14 days and be symptom-free before they will be released to participate in normal campus activities.The college has housing units set aside as quarantine spaces as needed for students who may test positive for or have been exposed to COVID-19.Those students will continue to receive daily meals and regular laundry services, will go through a daily health screening and will have their mental health assessed throughout their stay. No additional fees will be charged.More information about the college’s response to COVID-19 can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/mpcccovid-19update" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/mpcccovid-19update</a>.

MPCC readies for fall semester with precautions in place

On Tuesday, Aug. 18 a plane crashed into power lines and then a corn field in Scotts Bluff County.&nbsp;

The accident happened north of the City of Scottsbluff at approximately 8:50 a.m.&nbsp;

"The plane hit a power line causing the plane to crash into a corn field and the power line to came down on Highway 71," said Region 22 Emergency Management. "Then a cattle truck hit the power line causing poles and lines to come down two miles either side of the highway."

The pilot of the plane and driver of the cattle truck suffered minor injuries.&nbsp;

No names have been released at this time.&nbsp;

Panhandle Post will have more information once it becomes available.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle Post&nbsp;On Tuesday, Aug. 18 a plane crashed into power lines and then a corn field in Scotts Bluff County.&nbsp;The accident happened north of the City of Scottsbluff at approximately 8:50 a.m.&nbsp;"The plane hit a power line causing the plane to crash into a corn field and the power line to came down on Highway 71," said Region 22 Emergency Management. "Then a cattle truck hit the power line causing poles and lines to come down two miles either side of the highway."The pilot of the plane and driver of the cattle truck suffered minor injuries.&nbsp;No names have been released at this time.&nbsp;Panhandle Post will have more information once it becomes available.&nbsp;

Plane crashes into Panhandle power lines, corn field 

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Great Plains Health has once again been recognized as one of the best facilities in the United States for its fast and effective treatment of the most deadly type of heart attack, a STEMI (ST Elevated Acute Myocardial Infarction).

For the second consecutive year, the hospital earned the Mission: Lifeline® Gold Receiving Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart Association for the treatment of patients who suffer severe heart attacks.

Every year, more than 250,000 people experience a STEMI caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it’s critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.&nbsp;

The American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline program’s goal is to reduce system barriers to prompt treatment for heart attacks, beginning with the 9-1-1 call, to EMS transport and continuing through hospital treatment and discharge. The initiative provides tools, training and other resources to support heart attack care following protocols from the most recent evidence-based treatment guidelines.&nbsp;

"Great Plains Health is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association, but even more than that, I am very proud of our physicians and staff for their dedication to helping our patients have the best possible outcomes," said Mel McNea, chief executive officer.

“We commend Great Plains Health for this award in recognition for following evidence-based guidelines for timely heart attack treatment,” said Tim Henry, M.D., Chair of the Mission: Lifeline Acute Coronary Syndrome Subcommittee. “We applaud the significant institutional commitment to their critical role in the system of care for quickly and appropriately treating heart attack patients.”

Based in North Platte, Nebraska, Great Plains Health is a fully accredited, 116-bed acute-care regional medical center serving western and central Nebraska, northern Kansas and southern South Dakota. With 90 physicians representing nearly 30 medical specialties, the Great Plains Health system offers advanced health care, including heart and vascular, cancer, and orthopedic surgery services. Great Plains Health is a Level III trauma center, and all of its emergency department physicians are residency-trained and board-certified in emergency medicine. The system employs approximately 1,093 employees and serves a geographic area spanning approximately 16,000 square miles.

The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission and is home to an American College of Surgeons-accredited cancer center and Level II bariatric surgery program. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://gphealth.org/" target="_blank">gphealth.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597774763731.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Great Plains Health has once again been recognized as one of the best facilities in the United States for its fast and effective treatment of the most deadly type of heart attack, a STEMI (ST Elevated Acute Myocardial Infarction).For the second consecutive year, the hospital earned the Mission: Lifeline® Gold Receiving Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart Association for the treatment of patients who suffer severe heart attacks.Every year, more than 250,000 people experience a STEMI caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it’s critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.&nbsp;The American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline program’s goal is to reduce system barriers to prompt treatment for heart attacks, beginning with the 9-1-1 call, to EMS transport and continuing through hospital treatment and discharge. The initiative provides tools, training and other resources to support heart attack care following protocols from the most recent evidence-based treatment guidelines.&nbsp;"Great Plains Health is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association, but even more than that, I am very proud of our physicians and staff for their dedication to helping our patients have the best possible outcomes," said Mel McNea, chief executive officer.“We commend Great Plains Health for this award in recognition for following evidence-based guidelines for timely heart attack treatment,” said Tim Henry, M.D., Chair of the Mission: Lifeline Acute Coronary Syndrome Subcommittee. “We applaud the significant institutional commitment to their critical role in the system of care for quickly and appropriately treating heart attack patients.”###About Great Plains HealthBased in North Platte, Nebraska, Great Plains Health is a fully accredited, 116-bed acute-care regional medical center serving western and central Nebraska, northern Kansas and southern South Dakota. With 90 physicians representing nearly 30 medical specialties, the Great Plains Health system offers advanced health care, including heart and vascular, cancer, and orthopedic surgery services. Great Plains Health is a Level III trauma center, and all of its emergency department physicians are residency-trained and board-certified in emergency medicine. The system employs approximately 1,093 employees and serves a geographic area spanning approximately 16,000 square miles.The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission and is home to an American College of Surgeons-accredited cancer center and Level II bariatric surgery program. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://gphealth.org/" target="_blank">gphealth.org</a>.

Great Plains Health again receives recognition for treating heart attacks

KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska at Kearney is looking to draw more out-of-state students by offering them in-state tuition.

UNK recently announced that beginning with the 2021-22 school year, it will offer resident tuition to all out-of-state students, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/local/education/unk-wants-more-out-of-staters-will-give-them-resident-tuition-next-year/article_209b9016-deb2-500b-b5ea-b7ac74083d1b.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

The new policy expands a UNK program that had offered the same in-state tuition deal to students from Colorado and Kansas. The school is calling the program the New Nebraskan Scholarship. It would drop a nonresident's tuition per credit hour from $455 to $209. The initiative doesn't apply to students taking courses online or to graduate courses.

"Many students and their families from outside Nebraska will now find that their education is more affordable than the options they may be looking at in their home state," UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen said in a written statement.

UNK had attracted about 1,000 non-Nebraskan undergraduates several years ago, but that number dropped to fewer than 600 last fall, said Kelly Bartling, UNK's vice chancellor of enrollment management. Part of that drop can be attributed to UNK dropping some men's intercollegiate sports, including baseball, tennis and golf, she said.

If UNK can attract 200 more out-of-stater student with the new program, that will cover the revenue lost because of the discount, she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565694809368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska at Kearney is looking to draw more out-of-state students by offering them in-state tuition.UNK recently announced that beginning with the 2021-22 school year, it will offer resident tuition to all out-of-state students, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/local/education/unk-wants-more-out-of-staters-will-give-them-resident-tuition-next-year/article_209b9016-deb2-500b-b5ea-b7ac74083d1b.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.The new policy expands a UNK program that had offered the same in-state tuition deal to students from Colorado and Kansas. The school is calling the program the New Nebraskan Scholarship. It would drop a nonresident's tuition per credit hour from $455 to $209. The initiative doesn't apply to students taking courses online or to graduate courses."Many students and their families from outside Nebraska will now find that their education is more affordable than the options they may be looking at in their home state," UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen said in a written statement.UNK had attracted about 1,000 non-Nebraskan undergraduates several years ago, but that number dropped to fewer than 600 last fall, said Kelly Bartling, UNK's vice chancellor of enrollment management. Part of that drop can be attributed to UNK dropping some men's intercollegiate sports, including baseball, tennis and golf, she said.If UNK can attract 200 more out-of-stater student with the new program, that will cover the revenue lost because of the discount, she said.

UNK seeking to bump enrollment with out-of-state students

By Jerry Kane Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

For a novice angler, selecting fishing tackle can be intimidating. An angler will find a lot to pick from at the store. Aisles of items, in fact.

Any angler can keep things basic for starters, especially with simple hooks, sinkers and bobbers.

Hooks Hooks can be used with worms, minnows, prepared baits or plastic baits. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and colors. A good selection of hooks that will hold a variety of baits is an important component for a tackle box.

Hook size is indicated by a number, with larger numbers indicating smaller hooks. For instance, a size 2 hook is larger than a size 10 hook (think of how many times you can fit the hook gap into an inch). Very large hooks are sized differently, such as 1/0, 2/0 and 3/0. With this designation, larger numbers indicate larger hooks.

Use smaller hooks (sizes 6-10) when fishing for small species such and bluegill and crappie. Larger hooks can be used to fish for larger species such as walleye and pike.

Treble hooks have three points, and often are used with prepared baits such as dough balls or marshmallows. Hooks also come in different shapes. Many have straight shanks, but some are bent to help hold bait, or prevent fish from swallowing the hook.

Barbless hooks are designed for easy removal from fish. Any hook can be made barbless by pinching the barb down with a pliers. When around children, consider using barbless hooks for the ease of removal from people.

Sinkers Often the weight of the hook and bait alone is not heavy enough to cast the line or hold the bait under water. Sinkers are pieces of metal that provide extra weight. It is good to have a variety of sinkers types in your tackle box.

The most common type for beginning anglers is split shot. These small, round sinkers literally are split in the middle so they can be crimped onto line with pliers. Opposite the split are wings. The pliers can pinch these to remove the split shot.

Bobbers Bobbers, also known as floats, help keep bait suspended off the bottom and also provide an indication of when a fish takes your bait. The position of the bobber on the line can be adjusted to put your bait at a specific depth below the surface.

Use the smallest bobber you can get away with. The smaller the bobber, the easier it will be to detect nibbles at the bait. A 1-inch clip-on bobber is a good choice for a new angler.

If you are just getting into fishing and want more details, a helpful resource for all things beginner is Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTguMjU4MDYxMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.As_fABK0_azKJT7IqPkWOaxAkW_x-BRJyD5HP6kA4Vw/s/497221905/br/82490939491-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNEbraska.gov/howtofish</a>. If you want to take a new angler fishing and become eligible to win prizes, register for the Take ’em Fishing Challenge at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTguMjU4MDYxMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.K_ZLX_MEDn9yZ8UhzSiG44dtp8pSFqPLvsBTBfUYcOg/s/497221905/br/82490939491-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>, where fishing permits also are available for purchase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597770965196.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Jerry Kane Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionFor a novice angler, selecting fishing tackle can be intimidating. An angler will find a lot to pick from at the store. Aisles of items, in fact.Any angler can keep things basic for starters, especially with simple hooks, sinkers and bobbers.Hooks Hooks can be used with worms, minnows, prepared baits or plastic baits. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and colors. A good selection of hooks that will hold a variety of baits is an important component for a tackle box.Hook size is indicated by a number, with larger numbers indicating smaller hooks. For instance, a size 2 hook is larger than a size 10 hook (think of how many times you can fit the hook gap into an inch). Very large hooks are sized differently, such as 1/0, 2/0 and 3/0. With this designation, larger numbers indicate larger hooks.Use smaller hooks (sizes 6-10) when fishing for small species such and bluegill and crappie. Larger hooks can be used to fish for larger species such as walleye and pike.Treble hooks have three points, and often are used with prepared baits such as dough balls or marshmallows. Hooks also come in different shapes. Many have straight shanks, but some are bent to help hold bait, or prevent fish from swallowing the hook.Barbless hooks are designed for easy removal from fish. Any hook can be made barbless by pinching the barb down with a pliers. When around children, consider using barbless hooks for the ease of removal from people.Sinkers Often the weight of the hook and bait alone is not heavy enough to cast the line or hold the bait under water. Sinkers are pieces of metal that provide extra weight. It is good to have a variety of sinkers types in your tackle box.The most common type for beginning anglers is split shot. These small, round sinkers literally are split in the middle so they can be crimped onto line with pliers. Opposite the split are wings. The pliers can pinch these to remove the split shot.Bobbers Bobbers, also known as floats, help keep bait suspended off the bottom and also provide an indication of when a fish takes your bait. The position of the bobber on the line can be adjusted to put your bait at a specific depth below the surface.Use the smallest bobber you can get away with. The smaller the bobber, the easier it will be to detect nibbles at the bait. A 1-inch clip-on bobber is a good choice for a new angler.If you are just getting into fishing and want more details, a helpful resource for all things beginner is Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTguMjU4MDYxMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.As_fABK0_azKJT7IqPkWOaxAkW_x-BRJyD5HP6kA4Vw/s/497221905/br/82490939491-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNEbraska.gov/howtofish</a>. If you want to take a new angler fishing and become eligible to win prizes, register for the Take ’em Fishing Challenge at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTguMjU4MDYxMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.K_ZLX_MEDn9yZ8UhzSiG44dtp8pSFqPLvsBTBfUYcOg/s/497221905/br/82490939491-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>, where fishing permits also are available for purchase.

Fishing with basics of hooks, bobbers and sinkers

OMAHA, Neb. -- Mail delays are putting pressure on small business owners in Nebraska, who rely on the U.S. Postal Service for crucial aspects of their operations. The agency reports a $2.2 billion loss in this year's second quarter. On Friday,&nbsp;<a href="http://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2020/0807-pmg-bog-meeting-comments.htm">Postmaster General Louis DeJoy</a>&nbsp;announced a major restructuring of USPS leadership, including the reassignment of the two top officials in charge of daily operations. A bipartisan group of senators introduced&nbsp;<a href="http://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/4174/cosponsors?r=2&amp;s=1&amp;searchResultViewType=expanded">legislation</a>&nbsp;last month with $25 billion for the postal service in the next coronavirus stimulus package. Dana Osborne, who owns a wedding stationary design business in Omaha, says all this unpredictability is a challenge. "I actually tell my couples, 'There are two things you can't control when it comes to your wedding, and that's the weather and the post office,'" she states. The agency has made other operational changes to cut costs that mail carriers say will slow things down, including the reduction of overtime and orders to shut off sorting machines earlier. Changes also require carriers leave some mail behind to prevent running late on their routes. Osborne maintains the Postal Service needs support, and says mail delays are only one reason this year has been tough on her business. She notes many couples have postponed or scaled back their weddings. "I've worked so hard to get to this point, where I could own my own business and have a career that I love, and it's flexible for me and my family," she states. "And things like coronavirus and the post office being something that may break my business -- it's just heartbreaking to me." Small businesses make up 99% of companies in Nebraska and employ about half of the workforce. John McHugh, a former Republican U.S. representative from New York, is a spokesman for the Package Coalition, an alliance of retailers concerned about maintaining delivery service. He says without a stimulus, the USPS will run out of money -- and in turn, some small businesses will have to close. "Thinking about the hope for economic recovery -- well, as tough as it's going to be, it'll be that much more difficult with these small businesses having to shutter their doors," McHugh states. McHugh says he hopes enough lawmakers on both sides of the aisle will understand the severity of the situation, and take swift action to save the U.S Postal Service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597770674802.png" alt="Downtown North Platte, Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>Downtown North Platte, Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>By Lily BohlkeNebraska News ConnectionOMAHA, Neb. -- Mail delays are putting pressure on small business owners in Nebraska, who rely on the U.S. Postal Service for crucial aspects of their operations. The agency reports a $2.2 billion loss in this year's second quarter. On Friday,&nbsp;<a href="http://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2020/0807-pmg-bog-meeting-comments.htm">Postmaster General Louis DeJoy</a>&nbsp;announced a major restructuring of USPS leadership, including the reassignment of the two top officials in charge of daily operations. A bipartisan group of senators introduced&nbsp;<a href="http://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/4174/cosponsors?r=2&amp;s=1&amp;searchResultViewType=expanded">legislation</a>&nbsp;last month with $25 billion for the postal service in the next coronavirus stimulus package. Dana Osborne, who owns a wedding stationary design business in Omaha, says all this unpredictability is a challenge. "I actually tell my couples, 'There are two things you can't control when it comes to your wedding, and that's the weather and the post office,'" she states. The agency has made other operational changes to cut costs that mail carriers say will slow things down, including the reduction of overtime and orders to shut off sorting machines earlier. Changes also require carriers leave some mail behind to prevent running late on their routes. Osborne maintains the Postal Service needs support, and says mail delays are only one reason this year has been tough on her business. She notes many couples have postponed or scaled back their weddings. "I've worked so hard to get to this point, where I could own my own business and have a career that I love, and it's flexible for me and my family," she states. "And things like coronavirus and the post office being something that may break my business -- it's just heartbreaking to me." Small businesses make up 99% of companies in Nebraska and employ about half of the workforce. John McHugh, a former Republican U.S. representative from New York, is a spokesman for the Package Coalition, an alliance of retailers concerned about maintaining delivery service. He says without a stimulus, the USPS will run out of money -- and in turn, some small businesses will have to close. "Thinking about the hope for economic recovery -- well, as tough as it's going to be, it'll be that much more difficult with these small businesses having to shutter their doors," McHugh states. McHugh says he hopes enough lawmakers on both sides of the aisle will understand the severity of the situation, and take swift action to save the U.S Postal Service.

Mail delays, COVID-19 endanger Nebraska small businesses 

Despite a constant push by big marijuana to promote marijuana legalization so that it can cash in on new markets, Nebraska has wisely rejected the lobbying of drug advocates. &nbsp;The $13.6 billion marijuana industry’s latest efforts have tried to rebrand the drug as a medical tool—even though it’s not approved for medical use.&nbsp; In reality, there is no difference in the chemical composition or potency of recreational marijuana and so-called “medical marijuana.”&nbsp; The same products are being sold under both labels. &nbsp;Today’s commercially grown marijuana and processed pot products have ever-increasing levels of THC, contributing to greater and greater highs for the user, along with larger complications.&nbsp;

The negative effects of marijuana on brain development in youth and cognitive function among marijuana users of all ages are widely known. &nbsp;THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, creates sensory distortions that alter depth perception, inhibit coordination, slow reaction time, and impair motor skills. &nbsp;Drugged drivers on the road, however, are not the only dangerous consequence of marijuana use. &nbsp;An impaired workforce poses a serious and potentially more widespread threat to public health and employment satisfaction in the Good Life.

Drug use in the workplace contributes to higher rates of injury and accidents among workers. &nbsp;The&nbsp;Journal of the American Medical Association&nbsp;reported 55% more accidents, 85% more injuries, and 75% greater absenteeism among employees who had marijuana present in their pre-employment drug test than those who did not. &nbsp;Marijuana use off the job has negative effects at work, as significant data demonstrates cognitive impairment persists for days after use, even when the initial high has worn off.

In a low-unemployment state like Nebraska where businesses struggle to find workers, this is a major concern. &nbsp;Between one in seven and one and eight Americans have used marijuana in the past year according to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health. &nbsp;For employers in industries where a safe workplace is a top priority, finding drug-free workers can be a challenge.

In neighboring Colorado, some employers in industries who must have a zero-tolerance policy for marijuana use, like construction, look to non-legalized states to hire employees. &nbsp;As construction company CEO G.E. Johnson told the&nbsp;Colorado Springs Gazette: “This is a very troublesome issue for our industry, but I do not see us bending or lowering our hiring standards,” Johnson said. &nbsp;“Our workplaces are too dangerous and too dynamic to tolerate drug use. &nbsp;And marijuana? &nbsp;In many ways, this is worse than alcohol. &nbsp;I’m still in shock at how we (Colorado) voted.&nbsp; Everyone was asleep at the wheel.”

In the case of employees who operate heavy machinery, deliver products in trucks, work on manufacturing lines, and do construction, workplace injuries due to marijuana use can be deadly. &nbsp;For customers and clients of Nebraska businesses, impaired workers on the job pose a serious threat to consumer safety.

Marijuana not only increases immediate risk for workplace safety, but also has a significant negative impact on worker productivity. &nbsp;A large study published in the journal&nbsp;Addiction&nbsp;tracked 2,000 workers over a period of 25 years starting in their mid-20s. &nbsp;Marijuana users were less committed to work and their lack of commitment worsened throughout life compared to those who did not use marijuana. &nbsp;The results remained statistically significant even when a number of other factors known to be related to work commitment were considered, including education, socio-economic background, family, and mental health. &nbsp;To grow Nebraska, we must grow our workforce, and that starts with protecting the health and well-being of our people. &nbsp;Less committed, impaired workers due to marijuana is not a path toward a better Nebraska workforce.

The large number of young adults regularly using marijuana suggests the challenges of a drug-free workforce will only increase as the marijuana industry grows. &nbsp;More than one in three 18-25 year olds were past-year users of marijuana, and one in seven 12th&nbsp;graders have vaped THC in the last 30 days according to a University of Nebraska Medical Center study.&nbsp; In a good economy, Nebraska already has more jobs than people that are willing to take them.&nbsp; With marijuana on the market, the workforce development challenges the business community and the State have been working to address would only be exacerbated.

Throughout my time as Governor, I have been committed to growing Nebraska. &nbsp;In keeping with this vision, I have taken numerous steps to build a well-educated, well-prepared, highly skilled, and safe workforce. &nbsp;Over the past few years, that has included expanding registered apprenticeship opportunities and establishing career scholarship programs.&nbsp; Recently, it has meant working with businesses to slow the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp; All Nebraskans deserve a safe working environment. &nbsp;For Nebraska employers, workers, and consumers, legalization of marijuana and normalization of its use, in any form, would be a step backward.

If you have questions about how marijuana would decrease productivity and make workplaces less safe, you can send me an email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244. &nbsp;Now is the time to get Nebraska growing.&nbsp; Let’s keep our workforce strong and protect our families, workplaces, and communities from the negative impact of marijuana legalization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593122410940.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsDespite a constant push by big marijuana to promote marijuana legalization so that it can cash in on new markets, Nebraska has wisely rejected the lobbying of drug advocates. &nbsp;The $13.6 billion marijuana industry’s latest efforts have tried to rebrand the drug as a medical tool—even though it’s not approved for medical use.&nbsp; In reality, there is no difference in the chemical composition or potency of recreational marijuana and so-called “medical marijuana.”&nbsp; The same products are being sold under both labels. &nbsp;Today’s commercially grown marijuana and processed pot products have ever-increasing levels of THC, contributing to greater and greater highs for the user, along with larger complications.&nbsp;The negative effects of marijuana on brain development in youth and cognitive function among marijuana users of all ages are widely known. &nbsp;THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, creates sensory distortions that alter depth perception, inhibit coordination, slow reaction time, and impair motor skills. &nbsp;Drugged drivers on the road, however, are not the only dangerous consequence of marijuana use. &nbsp;An impaired workforce poses a serious and potentially more widespread threat to public health and employment satisfaction in the Good Life.Drug use in the workplace contributes to higher rates of injury and accidents among workers. &nbsp;The&nbsp;Journal of the American Medical Association&nbsp;reported 55% more accidents, 85% more injuries, and 75% greater absenteeism among employees who had marijuana present in their pre-employment drug test than those who did not. &nbsp;Marijuana use off the job has negative effects at work, as significant data demonstrates cognitive impairment persists for days after use, even when the initial high has worn off.In a low-unemployment state like Nebraska where businesses struggle to find workers, this is a major concern. &nbsp;Between one in seven and one and eight Americans have used marijuana in the past year according to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health. &nbsp;For employers in industries where a safe workplace is a top priority, finding drug-free workers can be a challenge.In neighboring Colorado, some employers in industries who must have a zero-tolerance policy for marijuana use, like construction, look to non-legalized states to hire employees. &nbsp;As construction company CEO G.E. Johnson told the&nbsp;Colorado Springs Gazette: “This is a very troublesome issue for our industry, but I do not see us bending or lowering our hiring standards,” Johnson said. &nbsp;“Our workplaces are too dangerous and too dynamic to tolerate drug use. &nbsp;And marijuana? &nbsp;In many ways, this is worse than alcohol. &nbsp;I’m still in shock at how we (Colorado) voted.&nbsp; Everyone was asleep at the wheel.”In the case of employees who operate heavy machinery, deliver products in trucks, work on manufacturing lines, and do construction, workplace injuries due to marijuana use can be deadly. &nbsp;For customers and clients of Nebraska businesses, impaired workers on the job pose a serious threat to consumer safety.Marijuana not only increases immediate risk for workplace safety, but also has a significant negative impact on worker productivity. &nbsp;A large study published in the journal&nbsp;Addiction&nbsp;tracked 2,000 workers over a period of 25 years starting in their mid-20s. &nbsp;Marijuana users were less committed to work and their lack of commitment worsened throughout life compared to those who did not use marijuana. &nbsp;The results remained statistically significant even when a number of other factors known to be related to work commitment were considered, including education, socio-economic background, family, and mental health. &nbsp;To grow Nebraska, we must grow our workforce, and that starts with protecting the health and well-being of our people. &nbsp;Less committed, impaired workers due to marijuana is not a path toward a better Nebraska workforce.The large number of young adults regularly using marijuana suggests the challenges of a drug-free workforce will only increase as the marijuana industry grows. &nbsp;More than one in three 18-25 year olds were past-year users of marijuana, and one in seven 12th&nbsp;graders have vaped THC in the last 30 days according to a University of Nebraska Medical Center study.&nbsp; In a good economy, Nebraska already has more jobs than people that are willing to take them.&nbsp; With marijuana on the market, the workforce development challenges the business community and the State have been working to address would only be exacerbated.Throughout my time as Governor, I have been committed to growing Nebraska. &nbsp;In keeping with this vision, I have taken numerous steps to build a well-educated, well-prepared, highly skilled, and safe workforce. &nbsp;Over the past few years, that has included expanding registered apprenticeship opportunities and establishing career scholarship programs.&nbsp; Recently, it has meant working with businesses to slow the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp; All Nebraskans deserve a safe working environment. &nbsp;For Nebraska employers, workers, and consumers, legalization of marijuana and normalization of its use, in any form, would be a step backward.If you have questions about how marijuana would decrease productivity and make workplaces less safe, you can send me an email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244. &nbsp;Now is the time to get Nebraska growing.&nbsp; Let’s keep our workforce strong and protect our families, workplaces, and communities from the negative impact of marijuana legalization.

COLUMN Gov. Ricketts: Marijuana impairs workers, endangers workplaces

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) - A Nebraska resident physician accused of fatally shooting her husband in front of their two children pleaded not guilty Monday.

Kathleen Jourdan, 31, maintains that she acted in self defense when she shot her husband, 35-year-old Joshua Jourdan while stopped along Interstate 80 near Cozad on June 17. She is charged with second-degree murder.

Investigators have said the couple got into an argument while driving back from Scottsbluff, where the family was in the process of moving. During the argument, Joshua pulled over and called a friend in Georgia to mediate. Kathleen said Joshua gave her a "look" during the call while raising his arm. Kathleen told police she feared for herself and children when she pulled a handgun from the center console and fired two shots into her husband's chest.

The couple's two sons, who were in the backseat, weren't hurt.

Jourdan has been placed on administrative leave from the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Family Medicine Residency Program. She graduated from St. George's University School of Medicine, which is in Grenada, in late 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597719502929.png" alt="Kathleen Jourdan" />
 <figcaption>Kathleen Jourdan</figcaption>
 </figure>LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) - A Nebraska resident physician accused of fatally shooting her husband in front of their two children pleaded not guilty Monday.Kathleen Jourdan, 31, maintains that she acted in self defense when she shot her husband, 35-year-old Joshua Jourdan while stopped along Interstate 80 near Cozad on June 17. She is charged with second-degree murder.Investigators have said the couple got into an argument while driving back from Scottsbluff, where the family was in the process of moving. During the argument, Joshua pulled over and called a friend in Georgia to mediate. Kathleen said Joshua gave her a "look" during the call while raising his arm. Kathleen told police she feared for herself and children when she pulled a handgun from the center console and fired two shots into her husband's chest.The couple's two sons, who were in the backseat, weren't hurt.Jourdan has been placed on administrative leave from the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Family Medicine Residency Program. She graduated from St. George's University School of Medicine, which is in Grenada, in late 2018.

Nebraska doctor charged in husband's death pleads not guilty

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts vetoed a bill Monday that would have prohibited prison officials from blocking the view of execution witnesses before the condemned inmate is declared dead, signaling that they're willing to repeat the much-criticized step in a future execution.

The bill was introduced after prison officials closed the witness viewing curtain for 14 minutes during the August 2018 execution of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5df07889ab7a433aa31d7af76d95a6a4/Nebraska-executes-first-inmate-using-fentanyl" target="_blank">Carey Dean Moore</a>, which prevented members of the media from seeing the full process after he stopped moving.

Corrections Director Scott Frakes later told a grand jury that prison officials did so "out of respect" for the then-unconscious inmate and to protect the identities of execution team members while they confirmed that Moore was dead. State law requires that the execution team members' identities be kept confidential to protect them from retribution or harassment.

Supporters of the bill said the move prevented the public from knowing whether something went wrong with the execution, and they argued that execution team members could wear masks to hide their identities. Ricketts contends that forcing prison staff members to wear masks could block their eyesight and potentially still allow them to be identified.

"Carrying out Nebraska's death penalty is a sobering responsibility that is assigned to state staff members," Ricketts said in the veto letter. "To have members of an execution team wearing a mask or disguise would make a mockery of the execution and show a complete lack of respect for the inmate, the inmate's family and for family of the victims."

Nebraska lawmakers ended their session on Friday, leaving them no chance to override the Republican governor's veto. Supporters will now have to wait until next year's session begins in January to re-introduce the bill to a Legislature with a handful of new senators.

Nebraska currently has 12 inmates on death row, but no executions are scheduled and any attempt to set a date is certain to face legal challenges. Prison officials are also likely to face difficulty obtaining the drugs they need to carry out capital punishment anytime soon.

The measure's sponsor, Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, of Lincoln, said the veto betrays the public's right to transparency and accountability in state government. Pansing Brooks said the public has no way to know whether the 2018 execution was botched because the media's view was obscured.

"The process of taking a life is not the government's little secret to protect themselves and hide from the public," she said.

Danielle Conrad, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, said the veto "will allow state officials to operate in the shadows, carrying out the death penalty without ensuring that witnesses can observe this grave and irrevocable act."

State officials were recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8af8f1b63e930ab20f41777ea802c971" target="_blank">forced to disclose the identity</a>&nbsp;of their execution drug supplier after the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that their refusal to release that information to newspapers and the ACLU of Nebraska violated the state's open records laws.

Similar legal battles have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ccb155e31ae2445892d8bd52839ebc75" target="_blank">played out in Arkansas</a>, which last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c297885222cc44879715ba9c95f01285" target="_blank">expanded the secrecy law</a>&nbsp;that shields the identity of its drug supplier.

The bill was one of seven measures Ricketts vetoed on Monday. The other bills would have allowed more inmates to qualify for parole in an effort to alleviate overcrowding, required high schools students to fill out federal financial aid applications, and required that suspended students be given a chance to complete their homework and classwork while making it more difficult reassign those caught with drugs or alcohol.

Ricketts said the prisons bill could allow some inmates to qualify for parole as soon as they enter prison and cast it as a potential public safety risk. He argued that the other two bills would create additional bureaucratic burdens on schools and parents.

Ricketts also vetoed a bill that would have increased occupational licensing requirements on people who preform manicures and pedicures on natural nails. He said he did so because it would put a bigger burden on people wanting to go into that field.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts vetoed a bill Monday that would have prohibited prison officials from blocking the view of execution witnesses before the condemned inmate is declared dead, signaling that they're willing to repeat the much-criticized step in a future execution.The bill was introduced after prison officials closed the witness viewing curtain for 14 minutes during the August 2018 execution of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5df07889ab7a433aa31d7af76d95a6a4/Nebraska-executes-first-inmate-using-fentanyl" target="_blank">Carey Dean Moore</a>, which prevented members of the media from seeing the full process after he stopped moving.Corrections Director Scott Frakes later told a grand jury that prison officials did so "out of respect" for the then-unconscious inmate and to protect the identities of execution team members while they confirmed that Moore was dead. State law requires that the execution team members' identities be kept confidential to protect them from retribution or harassment.Supporters of the bill said the move prevented the public from knowing whether something went wrong with the execution, and they argued that execution team members could wear masks to hide their identities. Ricketts contends that forcing prison staff members to wear masks could block their eyesight and potentially still allow them to be identified."Carrying out Nebraska's death penalty is a sobering responsibility that is assigned to state staff members," Ricketts said in the veto letter. "To have members of an execution team wearing a mask or disguise would make a mockery of the execution and show a complete lack of respect for the inmate, the inmate's family and for family of the victims."Nebraska lawmakers ended their session on Friday, leaving them no chance to override the Republican governor's veto. Supporters will now have to wait until next year's session begins in January to re-introduce the bill to a Legislature with a handful of new senators.Nebraska currently has 12 inmates on death row, but no executions are scheduled and any attempt to set a date is certain to face legal challenges. Prison officials are also likely to face difficulty obtaining the drugs they need to carry out capital punishment anytime soon.The measure's sponsor, Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, of Lincoln, said the veto betrays the public's right to transparency and accountability in state government. Pansing Brooks said the public has no way to know whether the 2018 execution was botched because the media's view was obscured."The process of taking a life is not the government's little secret to protect themselves and hide from the public," she said.Danielle Conrad, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, said the veto "will allow state officials to operate in the shadows, carrying out the death penalty without ensuring that witnesses can observe this grave and irrevocable act."State officials were recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8af8f1b63e930ab20f41777ea802c971" target="_blank">forced to disclose the identity</a>&nbsp;of their execution drug supplier after the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that their refusal to release that information to newspapers and the ACLU of Nebraska violated the state's open records laws.Similar legal battles have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ccb155e31ae2445892d8bd52839ebc75" target="_blank">played out in Arkansas</a>, which last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c297885222cc44879715ba9c95f01285" target="_blank">expanded the secrecy law</a>&nbsp;that shields the identity of its drug supplier.The bill was one of seven measures Ricketts vetoed on Monday. The other bills would have allowed more inmates to qualify for parole in an effort to alleviate overcrowding, required high schools students to fill out federal financial aid applications, and required that suspended students be given a chance to complete their homework and classwork while making it more difficult reassign those caught with drugs or alcohol.Ricketts said the prisons bill could allow some inmates to qualify for parole as soon as they enter prison and cast it as a potential public safety risk. He argued that the other two bills would create additional bureaucratic burdens on schools and parents.Ricketts also vetoed a bill that would have increased occupational licensing requirements on people who preform manicures and pedicures on natural nails. He said he did so because it would put a bigger burden on people wanting to go into that field.

Nebraska governor vetoes death penalty transparency bill

🎥 Public Health Command Center Update from North Platte (August 17, 2020)

Crue Jarvis has been found safe according to family members.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Area law enforcement, and concerned family members are seeking information on a missing North Platte teenager.

Crue Jarvis, 15, has been missing since August 12, 2020.&nbsp;

Crue is 5'6", weighs 152 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes. He also has freckles.

He was last seen wearing black shorts and black shoes, and a shirt of unknown color.

If you have any information on Crue's whereabouts, contact the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office or Crimestoppers at 1-800-933-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597699076375.png" alt="Crue Jarvis" />
 <figcaption>Crue Jarvis</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE August 18, 2020Crue Jarvis has been found safe according to family members.NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Area law enforcement, and concerned family members are seeking information on a missing North Platte teenager.Crue Jarvis, 15, has been missing since August 12, 2020.&nbsp;Crue is 5'6", weighs 152 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes. He also has freckles.He was last seen wearing black shorts and black shoes, and a shirt of unknown color.Crue does not have a vehicle or phone.If you have any information on Crue's whereabouts, contact the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office or Crimestoppers at 1-800-933-TIPS.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnatasha.l.burch%2Fposts%2F10217959124152518&width=500" width="500" height="767" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597698806511.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

UPDATED Law enforcement seeking information on missing North Platte teen

Mid-Plains Community College has recognized 36 of its adjunct instructors for their dedication and service to MPCC. The instructors and their hometowns are as follows.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597696970762.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mid-Plains Community College has recognized 36 of its adjunct instructors for their dedication and service to MPCC. The instructors and their hometowns are as follows.30 years of service:Lynn Harris&nbsp;– Indianola20 years of service:Troy Fetters&nbsp;– OgallalaJan Knispel&nbsp;– ValentineKeith Melchert&nbsp;– North PlatteDevin Muirhead&nbsp;– Valentine15 years of service:Amber Cochran&nbsp;– KearneyLinda DeTurk&nbsp;– OmahaRich Docekal&nbsp;– OgallalaDarin Ellis&nbsp;– CallawayKathleen Fowler&nbsp;– ArcadiaShona Heim&nbsp;– ChampionCathy Howard&nbsp;– ImperialDr. Doug Long&nbsp;– North PlatteAllison O’Neill&nbsp;– North PlatteDonna Stamp&nbsp;– Broken BowAndrea Stevens&nbsp;– McCook10 years of service:David Cooper&nbsp;– North PlattePhilip Lyons&nbsp;– McCookDawn Mallory&nbsp;–&nbsp;MullenDebby Moninger&nbsp;– ArnoldShauna Morfeld&nbsp;– PapillionLester Olsen&nbsp;– KilgoreSandy O’Neil&nbsp;– WaunetaChristina Sheets&nbsp;– WallaceTonya Townsend&nbsp;– North Platte5 years of service:Shevaun Adams&nbsp;– ValentinePacanda Carfield&nbsp;– TrentonStefanie Edwards&nbsp;– Broken BowSerena Findley&nbsp;– North PlattePat Hartley&nbsp;– North PlatteMegan Hoover&nbsp;– North PlatteDr. Craig Jacobus&nbsp;– FremontJennifer Jones&nbsp;– OgallalaSharon Kircher&nbsp;– McCookJohn O’Neil&nbsp;– OgallalaBecky Schrunk&nbsp;– Valentine

Adjunct instructors honored for service to MPCC

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A western Nebraska school district has canceled most classes this week after three staff members tested positive for the coronavirus, requiring two dozen school workers to quarantine.

Classes for most grade levels in the Broken Bow School District have been canceled for the week, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/broken-bow-schools-cancel-bulk-of-classes-after-24-staff-members-put-in-quarantine-over/article_4f54617e-b04c-5a6f-af8e-3ac48b5044b7.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>. Superintendent Darren Tobey said in an online announcement that classes for prekindergarten and grades 6-12 were canceled through Friday. Kindergarten through fifth-grade classes were expected to be held as usual.

The district is now also requiring all students and staff to wear masks through Sept. 7, including at extracurricular activities and on school transportation. The requirement will be revisited before it expires, Tobey said..

The school district covers 426 square miles in Nebraska's Custer County and has an enrollment of more than 800 students.

Other school districts in the state - including those in Omaha - have also seen cases of the virus following attempts to launch in-person classes.

The news of Broken Bow's problems came as the state surpassed 30,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online virus tracker</a>. As of Monday morning, the state had seen 30,372 confirmed cases since the start of the outbreak and 361 deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.

The following letter was sent to students and parents:

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A western Nebraska school district has canceled most classes this week after three staff members tested positive for the coronavirus, requiring two dozen school workers to quarantine.Classes for most grade levels in the Broken Bow School District have been canceled for the week, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/broken-bow-schools-cancel-bulk-of-classes-after-24-staff-members-put-in-quarantine-over/article_4f54617e-b04c-5a6f-af8e-3ac48b5044b7.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported</a>. Superintendent Darren Tobey said in an online announcement that classes for prekindergarten and grades 6-12 were canceled through Friday. Kindergarten through fifth-grade classes were expected to be held as usual.The district is now also requiring all students and staff to wear masks through Sept. 7, including at extracurricular activities and on school transportation. The requirement will be revisited before it expires, Tobey said..The school district covers 426 square miles in Nebraska's Custer County and has an enrollment of more than 800 students.Other school districts in the state - including those in Omaha - have also seen cases of the virus following attempts to launch in-person classes.The news of Broken Bow's problems came as the state surpassed 30,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">state's online virus tracker</a>. As of Monday morning, the state had seen 30,372 confirmed cases since the start of the outbreak and 361 deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.The following letter was sent to students and parents:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597696404131.png" alt="broken bow cancel august 17 2020.PNG" />
 <figcaption>broken bow cancel august 17 2020.PNG</figcaption>
 </figure>

Broken Bow school district cancels classes after 3 staff members test positive for coronavirus

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested one person after discovering nearly 2,300 pounds of marijuana during a motorist assist on Interstate 80.

At approximately 1:30 p.m. Saturday, August 15, a trooper noticed a commercial box truck stopped with mechanical problems on the shoulder of eastbound I-80 at mile marker 228, near Cozad. The trooper stopped to assist. During the motorist assist, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

The truck was towed to the NSP office in Lexington for a probable cause search, with assistance from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office. The search revealed 2,295 pounds of marijuana, which was concealed inside cardboard boxes marked as electronics and other items. The estimated street value of the marijuana is more than $5 million.

The driver, Nolan Amado, 33, of Buckeye, Arizona, was arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, and no drug tax stamp. Amado was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597682333700.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested one person after discovering nearly 2,300 pounds of marijuana during a motorist assist on Interstate 80.At approximately 1:30 p.m. Saturday, August 15, a trooper noticed a commercial box truck stopped with mechanical problems on the shoulder of eastbound I-80 at mile marker 228, near Cozad. The trooper stopped to assist. During the motorist assist, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597682360884.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The truck was towed to the NSP office in Lexington for a probable cause search, with assistance from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office. The search revealed 2,295 pounds of marijuana, which was concealed inside cardboard boxes marked as electronics and other items. The estimated street value of the marijuana is more than $5 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597682394746.png" alt="NSP Photo" />
 <figcaption>NSP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, Nolan Amado, 33, of Buckeye, Arizona, was arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, and no drug tax stamp. Amado was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

Troopers find nearly 2,300 pounds of marijuana during motorist assist near Cozad

STURGIS, S.D. (AP) — The police chief of Sturgis says one protester was arrested after kicking at a biker during the annual motorcycle rally in western South Dakota. 

Chief Geody Vandewater says a small group of protesters was gathered on Sturgis' Main Street on Saturday when one demonstrator kicked the motorcycle as it passed by.

 The crowd began swarming toward the protesters. 

Vandewater says police escorted the demonstrators to a safe spot. 

He says the protesters were demonstrating against Republican Gov. Kristi Noem's decision not to shut down South Dakota during the coronavirus pandemic and that the Sturgis rally was being held. 

STURGIS, S.D. (AP) — The police chief of Sturgis says one protester was arrested after kicking at a biker during the annual motorcycle rally in western South Dakota. Chief Geody Vandewater says a small group of protesters was gathered on Sturgis' Main Street on Saturday when one demonstrator kicked the motorcycle as it passed by. The crowd began swarming toward the protesters. Vandewater says police escorted the demonstrators to a safe spot. He says the protesters were demonstrating against Republican Gov. Kristi Noem's decision not to shut down South Dakota during the coronavirus pandemic and that the Sturgis rally was being held. No one was hurt.

Police Chief: Protester kicks at biker during Sturgis rally

LINCOLN, Neb. – Hunters may begin donating deer to the Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) program Sept. 1, the start of the archery deer season. Eight processors will be available around the state. Three additional processors will accept deer for the program starting Nov. 14.

Hunters pay no processing costs for deer accepted by processors for this donation-driven program.

The HHH program is funded solely by tax-deductible contributions. Ground venison is distributed by charitable organizations to Nebraskans in need. Hunters should first talk with processors but may keep antlers, head and cape and donate the rest of the deer. Processors accept only whole deer in good condition to ensure a good yield of pure ground venison.

The participating meat processors are: Amherst – Belschner Custom Meats; Deshler – Deshler Zero Pantry; Elwood – SteakMaster (starting Nov. 14); Humphrey – Main Street Market, Country Butcher (starting Nov. 14); Lindsay – Melcher’s Locker; North Bend – North Bend Locker; North Platte – Kelley’s Custom Pack; Omaha – B.I.G. Meats; Table Rock – Den’s Country Meats (Starting Nov. 14; Ulysses – The Butchery.

Learn more about the program and how to support it at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTcuMjU3NDUxMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISEgvIn0.xp_cVVygwguALOwqR81fIDcMRSsNAB7c5pthUQIZOFo/s/497221905/br/82435293733-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/HHH</a>&nbsp;or contact program coordinator Teresa Lombard at 402 471-5430&nbsp;<a href="mailto:teresa.lombard@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">teresa.lombard@nebraska.gov</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Hunters may begin donating deer to the Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) program Sept. 1, the start of the archery deer season. Eight processors will be available around the state. Three additional processors will accept deer for the program starting Nov. 14.Hunters pay no processing costs for deer accepted by processors for this donation-driven program.The HHH program is funded solely by tax-deductible contributions. Ground venison is distributed by charitable organizations to Nebraskans in need. Hunters should first talk with processors but may keep antlers, head and cape and donate the rest of the deer. Processors accept only whole deer in good condition to ensure a good yield of pure ground venison.The participating meat processors are: Amherst – Belschner Custom Meats; Deshler – Deshler Zero Pantry; Elwood – SteakMaster (starting Nov. 14); Humphrey – Main Street Market, Country Butcher (starting Nov. 14); Lindsay – Melcher’s Locker; North Bend – North Bend Locker; North Platte – Kelley’s Custom Pack; Omaha – B.I.G. Meats; Table Rock – Den’s Country Meats (Starting Nov. 14; Ulysses – The Butchery.Learn more about the program and how to support it at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTcuMjU3NDUxMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISEgvIn0.xp_cVVygwguALOwqR81fIDcMRSsNAB7c5pthUQIZOFo/s/497221905/br/82435293733-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/HHH</a>&nbsp;or contact program coordinator Teresa Lombard at 402 471-5430&nbsp;<a href="mailto:teresa.lombard@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">teresa.lombard@nebraska.gov</a>.

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