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>.

Hunters Helping the Hungry meat processors to accept deer donations starting Sept. 1

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-On Sunday, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported 11 new cases in their jurisdiction.

Officials say ten new cases were reported in Lincoln County and one in Thomas County.

WCDHD says there are 166 active cases in their jurisdiction, with 259 confirmed cases being reported since March. 90 cases are considered "recovered" by health officials.

*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=IwAR2SpKwMSFygq9X8f_tY0WN6f1i0bxfU_wAmomkwqA7v4gNhKnDKB9bXYHc#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-On Sunday, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported 11 new cases in their jurisdiction.Officials say ten new cases were reported in Lincoln County and one in Thomas County.WCDHD says there are 166 active cases in their jurisdiction, with 259 confirmed cases being reported since March. 90 cases are considered "recovered" by health officials.*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=IwAR2SpKwMSFygq9X8f_tY0WN6f1i0bxfU_wAmomkwqA7v4gNhKnDKB9bXYHc#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597628570865.png" alt="WCDHD Community Risk Dial" />
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WCDHD: 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County, 1 in Thomas County

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts gathered with pro-life leaders on the steps of the State Capitol to sign new pro-life legislation into law.&nbsp; The&nbsp;Governor signed LB 814, a bill that&nbsp;prohibits the brutal practice of dismemberment abortion in Nebraska.&nbsp; LB 814 makes it a felony crime to perform a dismemberment abortion anywhere in Nebraska, punishable by up to two years in prison and/or a fine of $10,000.

“Nebraska is a pro-life state, and this week the Legislature took an important step to strengthen our culture of life,” said Gov.&nbsp;Ricketts.&nbsp; “Senator Geist’s bill bans the horrific procedure of dismemberment abortion, which tears apart a living baby’s body limb by limb.&nbsp; This brutal procedure has no place in a humane, civilized society. &nbsp;I commend Sen. Geist, and the bill’s supporters in the Unicameral, for outlawing this barbaric practice in Nebraska.”

Senator Suzanne Geist of Lincoln introduced the bill, which was approved by the Legislature on August 13th&nbsp;by a vote of 33-8.&nbsp; Initially, the Unicameral’s Judiciary Committee held LB 814 in committee, blocking it from receiving a vote from the Legislature.&nbsp; Senator Geist, however, filed a “pull motion,” supported by a majority of Senators, to bring the bill to the floor of the chamber for debate.&nbsp; She then successfully garnered support to overcome three filibusters so that a final vote could be taken to pass the bill.

“As the Senator for the 25th&nbsp;District, I was honored to carry LB 814. &nbsp;This bill passed because a great majority of the Legislative body and a great majority of Nebraska citizens agree with pro-life legislation.&nbsp; I appreciate all who prayed, who contacted their Senators, and all who voted.&nbsp; This is a significant step forward for the pro-life movement.”

“Nebraska Right to Life thanks Governor Ricketts and Sen. Geist for their leadership in passing the LB 814 dismemberment abortion ban.&nbsp; With the assistance of many other pro-life supporters and advocates, you have proven once again that Nebraska is a pro-life state.”

— Julie Schmit-Albin, Executive Director of Nebraska Right to Life

“This is a landmark victory for the pro-life movement. &nbsp;Senators had to overcome nearly every procedural hurdle in the book to get here, but 33 Senators affirmed that the unthinkable act of dismembering a live baby in the womb should be abolished.&nbsp; All babies deserve a chance at life, and no living human being should be torn apart limb by limb. &nbsp;LB 814 is based on science and compassion. &nbsp;We are grateful for the tremendous efforts of Senator Geist and all the senators who did the right thing by voting to end dismemberment abortion.”

— Karen Bowling, Executive Director for Nebraska Family Alliance

“We are honored to stand with Governor Ricketts, Senator Geist, elected officials, and other advocates for the unborn from across the state of Nebraska in celebration of LB 814 becoming law.&nbsp; Ending the horrific practice of dismemberment abortion in our state is a significant victory, yet it is just one part of building a Culture of Life in Nebraska which helps provide for the needs of mothers and children, honors a common human dignity, and works to make abortion unnecessary and unthinkable.”

— Marion Miner, Associate Director for Pro-Life and Family for the Nebraska Catholic Conference

“Today is a historic day for our state because Nebraska is finally putting an end to the gruesome practice of dismemberment abortion.&nbsp; Nebraska Right to Life applauds the commitment of LB 814’s 25 co-signers, Senator Geist, and Governor Ricketts to enact pro-life legislation.&nbsp; Throughout this year’s legislative session, LB 814 sparked a statewide discussion about the harms of dismembering a living child and the intrinsic value of every human life.&nbsp; This bill would not have been possible without thousands of pro-life Nebraskans who provided research, education, and advocacy in support of unborn lives.”

— Nebraska Right to Life President Sandy Danek

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597614332488.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts and pro-life leaders gather on the north steps of the State Capitol&nbsp;to celebrate the passage of LB 814." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts and pro-life leaders gather on the north steps of the State Capitol&nbsp;to celebrate the passage of LB 814.</figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts gathered with pro-life leaders on the steps of the State Capitol to sign new pro-life legislation into law.&nbsp; The&nbsp;Governor signed LB 814, a bill that&nbsp;prohibits the brutal practice of dismemberment abortion in Nebraska.&nbsp; LB 814 makes it a felony crime to perform a dismemberment abortion anywhere in Nebraska, punishable by up to two years in prison and/or a fine of $10,000.“Nebraska is a pro-life state, and this week the Legislature took an important step to strengthen our culture of life,” said Gov.&nbsp;Ricketts.&nbsp; “Senator Geist’s bill bans the horrific procedure of dismemberment abortion, which tears apart a living baby’s body limb by limb.&nbsp; This brutal procedure has no place in a humane, civilized society. &nbsp;I commend Sen. Geist, and the bill’s supporters in the Unicameral, for outlawing this barbaric practice in Nebraska.”Senator Suzanne Geist of Lincoln introduced the bill, which was approved by the Legislature on August 13th&nbsp;by a vote of 33-8.&nbsp; Initially, the Unicameral’s Judiciary Committee held LB 814 in committee, blocking it from receiving a vote from the Legislature.&nbsp; Senator Geist, however, filed a “pull motion,” supported by a majority of Senators, to bring the bill to the floor of the chamber for debate.&nbsp; She then successfully garnered support to overcome three filibusters so that a final vote could be taken to pass the bill.“As the Senator for the 25th&nbsp;District, I was honored to carry LB 814. &nbsp;This bill passed because a great majority of the Legislative body and a great majority of Nebraska citizens agree with pro-life legislation.&nbsp; I appreciate all who prayed, who contacted their Senators, and all who voted.&nbsp; This is a significant step forward for the pro-life movement.”PRO-LIFE ADVOCATES PRAISE LB 814“Nebraska Right to Life thanks Governor Ricketts and Sen. Geist for their leadership in passing the LB 814 dismemberment abortion ban.&nbsp; With the assistance of many other pro-life supporters and advocates, you have proven once again that Nebraska is a pro-life state.”— Julie Schmit-Albin, Executive Director of Nebraska Right to Life“This is a landmark victory for the pro-life movement. &nbsp;Senators had to overcome nearly every procedural hurdle in the book to get here, but 33 Senators affirmed that the unthinkable act of dismembering a live baby in the womb should be abolished.&nbsp; All babies deserve a chance at life, and no living human being should be torn apart limb by limb. &nbsp;LB 814 is based on science and compassion. &nbsp;We are grateful for the tremendous efforts of Senator Geist and all the senators who did the right thing by voting to end dismemberment abortion.”— Karen Bowling, Executive Director for Nebraska Family Alliance“We are honored to stand with Governor Ricketts, Senator Geist, elected officials, and other advocates for the unborn from across the state of Nebraska in celebration of LB 814 becoming law.&nbsp; Ending the horrific practice of dismemberment abortion in our state is a significant victory, yet it is just one part of building a Culture of Life in Nebraska which helps provide for the needs of mothers and children, honors a common human dignity, and works to make abortion unnecessary and unthinkable.”— Marion Miner, Associate Director for Pro-Life and Family for the Nebraska Catholic Conference“Today is a historic day for our state because Nebraska is finally putting an end to the gruesome practice of dismemberment abortion.&nbsp; Nebraska Right to Life applauds the commitment of LB 814’s 25 co-signers, Senator Geist, and Governor Ricketts to enact pro-life legislation.&nbsp; Throughout this year’s legislative session, LB 814 sparked a statewide discussion about the harms of dismembering a living child and the intrinsic value of every human life.&nbsp; This bill would not have been possible without thousands of pro-life Nebraskans who provided research, education, and advocacy in support of unborn lives.”— Nebraska Right to Life President Sandy Danek

Governor Ricketts signs new pro-life legislation into law

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported 21 new cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Saturday.

21 new positive cases in the WCDHD Jurisdiction. 

One of the positives from 8/14/2020 was initially reported as a Lincoln County resident. This was corrected to McPherson County.

A COVID-19 related death is under investigation. This individual is a female in her 20s. We want to send our deepest and sincere condolences to the family. 

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

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department reported 21 new cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Saturday.21 new positive cases in the WCDHD Jurisdiction. 1 case is from Logan County 1 case is from Hooker County 19 cases are from Lincoln CountyOne of the positives from 8/14/2020 was initially reported as a Lincoln County resident. This was corrected to McPherson County.A COVID-19 related death is under investigation. This individual is a female in her 20s. We want to send our deepest and sincere condolences to the family. *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. <figure>
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21 new cases, 1 death reported in WCDHD jurisdiction on Saturday

COZAD, Neb. (AP) - An excessive force lawsuit has been filed over a videotaped encounter in which a Nebraska police officer used a Taser on a man as he sat in a swing in his sister's backyard with his empty hands visible.

Hilario Velasquez, of Lexington, and his sister, Sarah Garrett, filed the lawsuit this past week in federal court against Cozad Police Sgt. John Peden and the city of Cozad, The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/lexington-man-sues-cozad-police-sergeant-who-tased-him-while-sitting-in-a-swing-for/article_235827ec-7896-5539-a7ee-ae70082f30bc.html?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_LJSNebraskaNews" target="_blank">reports.</a>

The suit said the siblings were in the backyard of Garrett's home on May 28 when the sergeant demanded to know where their brother was. Cozad Police Chief Mark Montgomery wouldn't say why police were looking for their brother and declined to comment on the lawsuit.

When the sergeant told Velasquez he had to leave, Velasquez said they weren't looking for him, and he didn't have anything to do with it, a 50-second video clip shows.

"Just get up and leave," Peden told Velasquez, Peden pointing a Taser at him.

"No, my son's in there," Velasquez said, motioning to the house, a second before the sergeant shocked him, then kept verbally pressing. "Get up."

The siblings' attorney, Maren Chaloupka, called it an assault.

Cozad City Attorney Scott Trusdale declined to comment, saying Friday that the city had not yet received official notice of the lawsuit.

COZAD, Neb. (AP) - An excessive force lawsuit has been filed over a videotaped encounter in which a Nebraska police officer used a Taser on a man as he sat in a swing in his sister's backyard with his empty hands visible.Hilario Velasquez, of Lexington, and his sister, Sarah Garrett, filed the lawsuit this past week in federal court against Cozad Police Sgt. John Peden and the city of Cozad, The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska/lexington-man-sues-cozad-police-sergeant-who-tased-him-while-sitting-in-a-swing-for/article_235827ec-7896-5539-a7ee-ae70082f30bc.html?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_LJSNebraskaNews" target="_blank">reports.</a>The suit said the siblings were in the backyard of Garrett's home on May 28 when the sergeant demanded to know where their brother was. Cozad Police Chief Mark Montgomery wouldn't say why police were looking for their brother and declined to comment on the lawsuit.When the sergeant told Velasquez he had to leave, Velasquez said they weren't looking for him, and he didn't have anything to do with it, a 50-second video clip shows."Just get up and leave," Peden told Velasquez, Peden pointing a Taser at him."No, my son's in there," Velasquez said, motioning to the house, a second before the sergeant shocked him, then kept verbally pressing. "Get up."The siblings' attorney, Maren Chaloupka, called it an assault.Cozad City Attorney Scott Trusdale declined to comment, saying Friday that the city had not yet received official notice of the lawsuit.

Excessive force lawsuit filed over Cozad Taser incident

Broken Bow Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday. Restrictions on extracurricular activities have been lifted.

BROKEN BOW, Neb.-Broken Bow Public Schools administrators temporarily closed the middle school/high school building on Friday after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.

In addition to closing the building, all extracurricular activities were also suspended.

Elementary school children had a normal class schedule on Friday.

Indications are that the school will reopen Monday, but that has not been confirmed by administrators.

UPDATE August 15, 2020Broken Bow Schools will resume normal schedules on Monday. Restrictions on extracurricular activities have been lifted.BROKEN BOW, Neb.-Broken Bow Public Schools administrators temporarily closed the middle school/high school building on Friday after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.In addition to closing the building, all extracurricular activities were also suspended.Elementary school children had a normal class schedule on Friday.Indications are that the school will reopen Monday, but that has not been confirmed by administrators.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flbphd.org%2Fposts%2F10163860944505332&width=500" width="500" height="689" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Broken Bow closes middle school/high school building after staff member tests positive

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials reported 18 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Friday.

The West Central District Health Department says all of the new cases are in Lincoln County.

There are currently 150 active cases in the WCDHD jurisdiction, with at total of 227 since March. 75 cases are reported as recovered.

Visit the WCDHD Dashboard <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…">HERE</a>.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials reported 18 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Friday.The West Central District Health Department says all of the new cases are in Lincoln County.There are currently 150 active cases in the WCDHD jurisdiction, with at total of 227 since March. 75 cases are reported as recovered.Visit the WCDHD Dashboard <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…">HERE</a>.<figure>
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Officials report 18 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in Lincoln County on Friday

LINCOLN –&nbsp;On Thursday, Governor Pete Ricketts highlighted the results of the Second Session of the 106th&nbsp;Legislature in his annual “Sine Die” address to the Unicameral on the final day of its 2020 session.&nbsp;

During the address, the Governor thanked Senators for passing all four priorities set in January, including property tax relief, veterans tax relief, flood relief, and career scholarships.&nbsp; He praised Senators for convening in late March to authorize emergency funds for the State’s coronavirus pandemic response.&nbsp; The Governor also highlighted the Legislature’s successful passage of a ban on the gruesome practice of dismemberment abortion.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2020 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Watch the Governor’s Sine Die address to the Legislature by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fi6rz34s104j4h43%2FGov.%2520Ricketts%25202020%2520Sine%2520Die%2520Address.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C052ad4065d414142522608d8407a35b1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637330240911643604&amp;sdata=HuMI3S9SSj740SNVg2WZtaJjajFV89Mu4uf5MyLMAnQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597443404639.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>LINCOLN –&nbsp;On Thursday, Governor Pete Ricketts highlighted the results of the Second Session of the 106th&nbsp;Legislature in his annual “Sine Die” address to the Unicameral on the final day of its 2020 session.&nbsp;During the address, the Governor thanked Senators for passing all four priorities set in January, including property tax relief, veterans tax relief, flood relief, and career scholarships.&nbsp; He praised Senators for convening in late March to authorize emergency funds for the State’s coronavirus pandemic response.&nbsp; The Governor also highlighted the Legislature’s successful passage of a ban on the gruesome practice of dismemberment abortion.HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2020 LEGISLATIVE SESSION<ul>
 <li>Canal Repair:&nbsp;Budget adjustments will provide funding to help repair the Gering-Fort Laramie and Goshen Irrigation Canal near Scottsbluff after it collapsed last year.</li><li>Career Scholarships:&nbsp;New scholarships through the Community Colleges, State Colleges, and the University of Nebraska will connect students to career pathways with great-paying jobs.</li><li>Corrections Workforce:&nbsp;A new partnership between Peru State College and the Nebraska Department of Corrections will help more Nebraskans take good opportunities in the field of public safety.</li><li>Flood Relief:&nbsp;Budget adjustments will provide over $55 million in relief to help Nebraska continue to rebuild bigger and better than before the historic 2019 floods.</li><li>Good Samaritans:&nbsp;Good Samaritans who take action to rescue a child stranded in a hot car will now be protected when taking lifesaving action.</li><li>NExT Project:&nbsp;The state has pledged initial funds to support Nebraska’s bid for a major federal investment in the University of Nebraska Medical Center.</li><li>Pro-Life:&nbsp;A new pro-life measure bans the gruesome practice of dismemberment abortion.</li><li>Property Tax Relief:&nbsp;State support for property tax relief will increase to $650 million annually over the next few years.&nbsp; This is more than a four-fold increase in relief since Governor Ricketts took office.</li><li>Tax Incentives Reform:&nbsp;New reforms to state tax incentives for businesses will take effect next year, replacing the state’s current business tax incentive program. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Veterans Tax Relief:&nbsp;New tax relief will give Nebraska’s veterans a 50 percent tax cut on taxes paid on military retirement benefits.</li>
 </ul>Watch the Governor’s Sine Die address to the Legislature by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fi6rz34s104j4h43%2FGov.%2520Ricketts%25202020%2520Sine%2520Die%2520Address.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C052ad4065d414142522608d8407a35b1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637330240911643604&amp;sdata=HuMI3S9SSj740SNVg2WZtaJjajFV89Mu4uf5MyLMAnQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts: Session achieved the people’s priorities

Pacheco R A Marco, 26, Wallace and Cynthia V P Arrieta, 20, Wallace

William J Wright, 28, North Platte and Tayler L Yost, 22, North Platte

Ronald W Mikoloyck, 60, North Platte and Analou A Marcaida, 39, North Platte

Jason D Zogg, 44, Hershey and Dosha D Allen, 30, Hershey

Published August 14, 2020Pacheco R A Marco, 26, Wallace and Cynthia V P Arrieta, 20, WallaceWilliam J Wright, 28, North Platte and Tayler L Yost, 22, North PlatteRonald W Mikoloyck, 60, North Platte and Analou A Marcaida, 39, North PlatteJason D Zogg, 44, Hershey and Dosha D Allen, 30, Hershey

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Some of Nebraska's jails and prisons continue to struggle to control the spread of the coronavirus within their walls.

That struggle was on display this week in the Douglas County Jail, which on Thursday confirmed 35 new COVID-19 cases among the jail's employees and seven new cases among inmates. Since the onset of the pandemic, a total of 92 employees, two contractors and 66 prisoners have tested positive at the jail.

"Given the spread of the virus in the facility, we anticipate there are more positive cases," jail Director Mike Myers said. "We are closely monitoring our population and will continue to test anyone who shows symptoms."

The Nebraska state prisons system has also seen new confirmed cases nearly every day this week among staff. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said Thursday that two more staffers with the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln had tested positive, bringing the total number of prison staffers across the state infected since the start of the outbreak to 54.

While the seven-day rolling average of new coronavirus cases in Nebraska has not increased, the seven-day average of daily deaths in the state has risen over the past two weeks from 1.86 deaths per day on July 30 to three deaths per day by Thursday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Some of Nebraska's jails and prisons continue to struggle to control the spread of the coronavirus within their walls.That struggle was on display this week in the Douglas County Jail, which on Thursday confirmed 35 new COVID-19 cases among the jail's employees and seven new cases among inmates. Since the onset of the pandemic, a total of 92 employees, two contractors and 66 prisoners have tested positive at the jail."Given the spread of the virus in the facility, we anticipate there are more positive cases," jail Director Mike Myers said. "We are closely monitoring our population and will continue to test anyone who shows symptoms."The Nebraska state prisons system has also seen new confirmed cases nearly every day this week among staff. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said Thursday that two more staffers with the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln had tested positive, bringing the total number of prison staffers across the state infected since the start of the outbreak to 54.While the seven-day rolling average of new coronavirus cases in Nebraska has not increased, the seven-day average of daily deaths in the state has risen over the past two weeks from 1.86 deaths per day on July 30 to three deaths per day by Thursday.

Nebraska jails, prisons struggle to halt coronavirus spread

Weather permitting, a chip seal project will begin August 31 on N-25, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. 

Chip seal is an application of an asphalt binder to the roadway surface followed by an application of aggregate.

State maintenance forces will be performing the chip seal from Reference Post 30.0 to Reference Post 38.0, south of Hayes Center. The work is anticipated to take five days. One-lane traffic will be maintained with a pilot car and flaggers.

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up and to put phones down.


Weather permitting, a chip seal project will begin August 31 on N-25, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. Chip seal is an application of an asphalt binder to the roadway surface followed by an application of aggregate.State maintenance forces will be performing the chip seal from Reference Post 30.0 to Reference Post 38.0, south of Hayes Center. The work is anticipated to take five days. One-lane traffic will be maintained with a pilot car and flaggers.Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up and to put phones down.

Road work to begin on N-25 south of Hayes Center

HERSHEY, Neb.-Hershey Public Schools (HPS) has decided to delay the start of school due to concerns regarding COVID-19.

HPS administrators made the announcement on Friday, stating that due to the "increase of COVID-19 in our region" they have decided not to start the school year until August 24, a delay of one week.

HERSHEY, Neb.-Hershey Public Schools (HPS) has decided to delay the start of school due to concerns regarding COVID-19.HPS administrators made the announcement on Friday, stating that due to the "increase of COVID-19 in our region" they have decided not to start the school year until August 24, a delay of one week.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D10158540900640502%26id%3D189774405501&width=500" width="500" height="675" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Hershey Public Schools delay start due to increase in COVID-19 cases

News Release US Attorney's Office-Omaha

OMAHA, Neb.-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Matthew Williams, 31, formerly of McCook, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 70 months in prison by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for failing to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). After serving his prison term, Williams will be required to serve 25 years of supervised release and continue to register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.

SORNA, also known as the Adam Walsh Protection and Safety Act, requires that a convicted sex offender register in each jurisdiction where the offender resides, where the offender is employed, or where the offender is a student, and that the sex offender maintain current registrations.&nbsp; Williams was required to register as a sex offender because he had been convicted of first-degree rape in 2010 in Cleveland County, Oklahoma.&nbsp; This conviction required that Williams register as a sex offender in the state of Oklahoma, and by federal law, in any other state to which he moved.&nbsp; Williams moved to McCook in May 2016 and continued to reside there, without registering, until February 2017.&nbsp; In March of 2018, Williams was prosecuted and convicted in Colorado for assault and attempted sexual assault of a child and is currently serving 4 years in prison.

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

This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the McCook Police Department.

News Release US Attorney's Office-OmahaOMAHA, Neb.-United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Matthew Williams, 31, formerly of McCook, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 70 months in prison by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for failing to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). After serving his prison term, Williams will be required to serve 25 years of supervised release and continue to register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.SORNA, also known as the Adam Walsh Protection and Safety Act, requires that a convicted sex offender register in each jurisdiction where the offender resides, where the offender is employed, or where the offender is a student, and that the sex offender maintain current registrations.&nbsp; Williams was required to register as a sex offender because he had been convicted of first-degree rape in 2010 in Cleveland County, Oklahoma.&nbsp; This conviction required that Williams register as a sex offender in the state of Oklahoma, and by federal law, in any other state to which he moved.&nbsp; Williams moved to McCook in May 2016 and continued to reside there, without registering, until February 2017.&nbsp; In March of 2018, Williams was prosecuted and convicted in Colorado for assault and attempted sexual assault of a child and is currently serving 4 years in prison.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the McCook Police Department.

Former McCook man sentenced for failing to register as a sex offender

KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - A pedestrian was killed this week in a hit-and-run crash south of Kearney in south-central Nebraska, police there said.

The crash happened in the pre-dawn hours Tuesday on Highway 44 in Kearney County, the Kearney Hub&nbsp;<a href="https://kearneyhub.com/news/local/kearney-man-identified-as-victim-of-tuesday-vehicle-pedestrian-crash-south-of-kearney/article_e5aadbd6-dcd5-11ea-bd4e-13daeae68c2c.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. The Kearney County Sheriff's Office was called to the scene around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday, and arriving deputies found Christopher Hines, 43, of Kearney, dead at the scene.

The Nebraska State Patrol and Kearney County Sheriff's Office are investigating. No arrests in the case had been reported by midday Friday.

KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - A pedestrian was killed this week in a hit-and-run crash south of Kearney in south-central Nebraska, police there said.The crash happened in the pre-dawn hours Tuesday on Highway 44 in Kearney County, the Kearney Hub&nbsp;<a href="https://kearneyhub.com/news/local/kearney-man-identified-as-victim-of-tuesday-vehicle-pedestrian-crash-south-of-kearney/article_e5aadbd6-dcd5-11ea-bd4e-13daeae68c2c.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. The Kearney County Sheriff's Office was called to the scene around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday, and arriving deputies found Christopher Hines, 43, of Kearney, dead at the scene.The Nebraska State Patrol and Kearney County Sheriff's Office are investigating. No arrests in the case had been reported by midday Friday.

Police say Kearney man killed in hit-and-run crash on Hwy 44

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man has been arrested on allegations of rape.

According to North Platte Police, on August 13, 2020, officers made contact with a subject at the police station who reported they had been sexually assaulted in the 2300 Block of East Philip. 

 Officers spoke with the victim, who indicated they had been sexually assaulted by 67-year-old Herbert Russell. 

Police say the victim advised that they had been assaulted two separate times, on the night of August 12 and the morning of August 13. 

Police say during the investigation, officers were able to establish probable cause to arrest Russell.  Russell was later located and placed under arrest on suspicion of 1st-degree sexual assault. 

 Russell was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center. 

According to police, officers later served a search warrant at the location of the incident, where they found corroborating evidence of the assault.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597407001056.jpeg" alt="Herbert Russell" />
 <figcaption>Herbert Russell</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man has been arrested on allegations of rape.According to North Platte Police, on August 13, 2020, officers made contact with a subject at the police station who reported they had been sexually assaulted in the 2300 Block of East Philip. Officers spoke with the victim, who indicated they had been sexually assaulted by 67-year-old Herbert Russell. Police say the victim advised that they had been assaulted two separate times, on the night of August 12 and the morning of August 13. Police say during the investigation, officers were able to establish probable cause to arrest Russell. Russell was later located and placed under arrest on suspicion of 1st-degree sexual assault. Russell was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center. According to police, officers later served a search warrant at the location of the incident, where they found corroborating evidence of the assault.

North Platte man arrested on rape allegations

CUSTER, S.D. (AP) — Sheriff’s officials say a motorcyclist has survived a violent attack by a bison in the Black Hills. 

A bystander’s video shows several bikers had stopped while a herd of bison crossed a road in Custer State Park Wednesday. 

The Custer County Sheriff’s Office says a 54-year-old Iowa woman got off the motorcycle on which she was a passenger and was attacked by a bison. 

Sheriff's officials say the bison caught the woman’s belt and jeans on its horns and swung her around violently before running away.

 Custer County Sheriff’s deputies, Custer State Park rangers, Custer Ambulance and Black Hills Life Flight responded to the incident. 

There's no word on the woman's condition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CUSTER, S.D. (AP) — Sheriff’s officials say a motorcyclist has survived a violent attack by a bison in the Black Hills. A bystander’s video shows several bikers had stopped while a herd of bison crossed a road in Custer State Park Wednesday. The Custer County Sheriff’s Office says a 54-year-old Iowa woman got off the motorcycle on which she was a passenger and was attacked by a bison. Sheriff's officials say the bison caught the woman’s belt and jeans on its horns and swung her around violently before running away. Custer County Sheriff’s deputies, Custer State Park rangers, Custer Ambulance and Black Hills Life Flight responded to the incident. There's no word on the woman's condition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Woman survives violent bison attack in Custer State Park

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Twelve is the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases reported by the West Central District Health Department on Thursday.

All cases are from Lincoln County and Under Investigation.

There have now been 209 confirmed cases in the WCDHD jurisdiction since March. 75 of those cases are reported as recovered. There are currently 132 active cases.

<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…">WCDHD Dashboard</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Twelve is the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases reported by the West Central District Health Department on Thursday.All cases are from Lincoln County and Under Investigation.There have now been 209 confirmed cases in the WCDHD jurisdiction since March. 75 of those cases are reported as recovered. There are currently 132 active cases.<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597369074694.png" alt="covid update august 13 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update august 13 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

WCDHD reports 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Thursday


The risk dial moved up from a 2.0 to 2.27 this week, this falls
within the elevated risk level. There were increases in the following
data which contributed to the move in the risk dial: 


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

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


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

The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is presented to the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">HERE</a>&nbsp;the WCDHD facebook page, as well as the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">dashboard</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597360343854.png" alt="As of August 13, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of August 13, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597360360058.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
The risk dial moved up from a 2.0 to 2.27 this week, this falls
within the elevated risk level. There were increases in the following
data which contributed to the move in the risk dial: 
<ul>
 <li>Contact Tracing
	</li><li>Direct contacts of positives
	</li><li>Testing Availability
	</li><li>Testing Turnaround Time
</li>
 </ul>The WCDHD risk
dial is used to show our community how COVID-19 is impacting our area
at a point-in-time.&nbsp;
Every week WCDHD’s team applies a set process for reviewing
available, current data (including positivity rate, cases, testing,
contact tracing and health care system capacity) to set the risk dial
for that week.&nbsp; Because our process is driven by the current
data each week, we cannot predict when we will move the dial up or
down. 
 
The best way to move our community toward green is
to practice social distancing and to wear face coverings when in
public.The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial
provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central
District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow),
elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and
national guidance published by top public health experts and is
coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work,
and in the community. 
The following data is used when
determining dial placement:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Weekly Positivity Rate
	</li><li>Overall Positivity Rate
	</li><li>New Cases
	</li><li>Rate of Cases per day
	</li><li>Daily Hospitalization
	</li><li>ICU Availability
	</li><li>Ventilator&nbsp;Availability&nbsp;
	</li><li>Community Spread
	</li><li>Testing Availability
	</li><li>Testing Turnaround Time
	</li><li>Contact Tracing
	</li><li>Direct contacts of positives
	</li><li>Medical &amp; Surgical Bed
	Availability 
	
	</li><li>Availability of Reliable and Valid
	Antibody Testing
	</li><li>Availability of effective
	treatment&nbsp;modalities&nbsp;for COVID-19&nbsp;
	</li><li>An effective vaccine that is
	widely available&nbsp;
	</li><li>Being able to easily obtain PPE
	through standard supply chains
</li>
 </ul>The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is presented to the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">HERE</a>&nbsp;the WCDHD facebook page, as well as the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">dashboard</a>.

WCDHD: COVID-19 community risk remains elevated; dial moves up in Orange

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers approved new tax credits for homeowners, farmers and businesses and put more restrictions on abortions Thursday as they finished a session marred by ugly public disputes and criticism that they didn't do enough to address the coronavirus pandemic.

The 60-day session ended after several last-minute, unsuccessful attempts to derail the tax and abortion bills. Lawmakers gave both measures final approval and sent them to Gov. Pete Ricketts, who's expected to sign them.

Lawmakers convened as normal in January but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b4c6abc1d9b46a6b4d91105ecf3be28f" target="_blank">suspended their session</a>&nbsp;in March out of concern about the pandemic. They returned in July with new safety precautions, including plastic barriers to separate senators and new restrictions on who could access the legislative chamber.

Debate among senators turned nasty at several points this year, with one lawmaker publicly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2291e79e1980148dc699f7b1ef12ca15" target="_blank">telling another to "shut up"&nbsp;</a>and others lamenting that the ostensibly nonpartisan, one-house Legislature has become more openly partisan and dysfunctional.

Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer acknowledged that the session was often rocky. But he pointed to major new laws passed, including measures to help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8a827969cda94aa3ab52b941414d5245" target="_blank">expand broadband internet</a>, improve oversight of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3c703d94d5c446889f6ed77c962c692d" target="_blank">state-run juvenile rehabilitation centers</a>&nbsp;and provide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/01b6e8d4967b0abfe7d95b3a2c5e0722" target="_blank">a tax cut for military retirees</a>.

"We've accomplished a lot, whether we realize it or not," Scheer said.

The property tax and business incentives package drew opposition from some lawmakers who said it would pull money away from people who will need financial assistance because of the pandemic.

"We have people waking up not knowing if they can feed their kids, not knowing if they can pay their mortgage," said Sen. Justin Wayne, of Omaha.

Lawmakers did approve Ricketts' emergency request for $83.6 million for the state's pandemic response before they paused their session, but some argued that the state should do more. The package included funding for personal protective equipment, scholarships and unemployment benefits.

Wayne said lawmakers were "putting handcuffs on our opportunity to help people," and noted that the pandemic's full impact may not have registered. He pointed to the Big Ten's decision to cancel its 2020 football season, a significant blow to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Lincoln's economy.

But Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, chairwoman of the Legislature's tax-focused Revenue Committee, said the bill reflects a compromise that will ultimately help Nebraska residents by reducing their tax bills. Lawmakers have faced pressure for years to lower property taxes, and the tax credit would help put a dent in some of the recent increases.

"What I'm not hearing right now is how important this bill is to the vast majority of Nebraskans," Linehan said. "It is significant relief to people."

Ricketts likewise praised lawmakers for their work on the tax package

"You are to be commended for the hard work you put in during the most trying and difficult circumstances," he said in his end-of-session remarks to lawmakers.

Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson said the measure "takes a major step forward to provide significant, meaningful and much-needed property tax relief for Nebraskans," but added that his group will continue to seek "long-term solutions" to reduce those taxes.

The property tax and business incentives package measures&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5fe3337f465a32b06f76643a9f099bcd" target="_blank">were merged into one bill&nbsp;</a>because neither measure had enough support to pass by itself. Rural lawmakers who want lower local property taxes initially threatened to block the business incentives bill, but politically powerful business groups argued that Nebraska can't be the only state without major tax incentives. The state's current business incentive program, the Nebraska Advantage Act, expires this year.

Lawmakers also passed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8ca7e533ef1bc57b72414826a80565b0" target="_blank">new restrictions on a second-term abortion procedure</a>, despite protests from abortion-right supporters. The measure would outlaw the use of clamps, forceps, tongs or scissors to perform what's known as a dilation and evacuation abortion. Abortion opponents refer to the procedure as a dismemberment abortion because it often requires doctors to remove a fetus in several pieces. Similar laws in other states have been struck down as unconstitutional.

This session could also be the last for Sen. Ernie Chambers, the state's longest-serving and best-known lawmaker, who will have to leave the Legislature for at least four years before he can run again. Chambers is famous for his ability to single-handedly filibuster bills, often&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6dec5663aa7b4a0a9d332897d366aff7" target="_blank">bringing the Legislature to a standstill</a>.

Chambers was forced out of office for four years in 2009 due to newly enacted term limits, but returned to his old seat in January 2013. He served two more terms and will be forced out of office again in January 2021. On Thursday afternoon, more than 100 people gathered outside the Capitol to celebrate his tenure.

State law restricts lawmakers to two consecutive four-year terms, but allows them to return after sitting out for one term. Chambers, now 83, hasn't said whether he'll run again.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers approved new tax credits for homeowners, farmers and businesses and put more restrictions on abortions Thursday as they finished a session marred by ugly public disputes and criticism that they didn't do enough to address the coronavirus pandemic.The 60-day session ended after several last-minute, unsuccessful attempts to derail the tax and abortion bills. Lawmakers gave both measures final approval and sent them to Gov. Pete Ricketts, who's expected to sign them.Lawmakers convened as normal in January but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b4c6abc1d9b46a6b4d91105ecf3be28f" target="_blank">suspended their session</a>&nbsp;in March out of concern about the pandemic. They returned in July with new safety precautions, including plastic barriers to separate senators and new restrictions on who could access the legislative chamber.Debate among senators turned nasty at several points this year, with one lawmaker publicly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2291e79e1980148dc699f7b1ef12ca15" target="_blank">telling another to "shut up"&nbsp;</a>and others lamenting that the ostensibly nonpartisan, one-house Legislature has become more openly partisan and dysfunctional.Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer acknowledged that the session was often rocky. But he pointed to major new laws passed, including measures to help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8a827969cda94aa3ab52b941414d5245" target="_blank">expand broadband internet</a>, improve oversight of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3c703d94d5c446889f6ed77c962c692d" target="_blank">state-run juvenile rehabilitation centers</a>&nbsp;and provide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/01b6e8d4967b0abfe7d95b3a2c5e0722" target="_blank">a tax cut for military retirees</a>."We've accomplished a lot, whether we realize it or not," Scheer said.The property tax and business incentives package drew opposition from some lawmakers who said it would pull money away from people who will need financial assistance because of the pandemic."We have people waking up not knowing if they can feed their kids, not knowing if they can pay their mortgage," said Sen. Justin Wayne, of Omaha.Lawmakers did approve Ricketts' emergency request for $83.6 million for the state's pandemic response before they paused their session, but some argued that the state should do more. The package included funding for personal protective equipment, scholarships and unemployment benefits.Wayne said lawmakers were "putting handcuffs on our opportunity to help people," and noted that the pandemic's full impact may not have registered. He pointed to the Big Ten's decision to cancel its 2020 football season, a significant blow to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Lincoln's economy.But Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, chairwoman of the Legislature's tax-focused Revenue Committee, said the bill reflects a compromise that will ultimately help Nebraska residents by reducing their tax bills. Lawmakers have faced pressure for years to lower property taxes, and the tax credit would help put a dent in some of the recent increases."What I'm not hearing right now is how important this bill is to the vast majority of Nebraskans," Linehan said. "It is significant relief to people."Ricketts likewise praised lawmakers for their work on the tax package"You are to be commended for the hard work you put in during the most trying and difficult circumstances," he said in his end-of-session remarks to lawmakers.Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson said the measure "takes a major step forward to provide significant, meaningful and much-needed property tax relief for Nebraskans," but added that his group will continue to seek "long-term solutions" to reduce those taxes.The property tax and business incentives package measures&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5fe3337f465a32b06f76643a9f099bcd" target="_blank">were merged into one bill&nbsp;</a>because neither measure had enough support to pass by itself. Rural lawmakers who want lower local property taxes initially threatened to block the business incentives bill, but politically powerful business groups argued that Nebraska can't be the only state without major tax incentives. The state's current business incentive program, the Nebraska Advantage Act, expires this year.Lawmakers also passed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8ca7e533ef1bc57b72414826a80565b0" target="_blank">new restrictions on a second-term abortion procedure</a>, despite protests from abortion-right supporters. The measure would outlaw the use of clamps, forceps, tongs or scissors to perform what's known as a dilation and evacuation abortion. Abortion opponents refer to the procedure as a dismemberment abortion because it often requires doctors to remove a fetus in several pieces. Similar laws in other states have been struck down as unconstitutional.This session could also be the last for Sen. Ernie Chambers, the state's longest-serving and best-known lawmaker, who will have to leave the Legislature for at least four years before he can run again. Chambers is famous for his ability to single-handedly filibuster bills, often&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6dec5663aa7b4a0a9d332897d366aff7" target="_blank">bringing the Legislature to a standstill</a>.Chambers was forced out of office for four years in 2009 due to newly enacted term limits, but returned to his old seat in January 2013. He served two more terms and will be forced out of office again in January 2021. On Thursday afternoon, more than 100 people gathered outside the Capitol to celebrate his tenure.State law restricts lawmakers to two consecutive four-year terms, but allows them to return after sitting out for one term. Chambers, now 83, hasn't said whether he'll run again.

Nebraska lawmakers OK property tax credits as session ends

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597347628745.png" alt="Police Activity August 12 to 13 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>Police Activity August 12 to 13 2020.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte Police Call Log (August 12-13, 2020)

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Traffic on Nebraska highways is approaching normal levels after falling sharply this spring when restrictions related to the coronavirus were first imposed.

The state Transportation Department said this week that traffic statewide was near the average level from 2016 to 2018 for the first time since early March although some areas remain slower.

On the interstate system of highways around Omaha and between Omaha and Lincoln, traffic was down 9% last week. At the height of the coronavirus restrictions in early April, traffic was down 44% in that area.

In Omaha, traffic on streets and highways was 6% below average. Traffic in Lincoln was down 4% last week.

Highways in some parts of the state were busier than average last week. Interstate 80 traffic west of Lincoln was up 8% and rural highway traffic in the state was up 5%.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Traffic on Nebraska highways is approaching normal levels after falling sharply this spring when restrictions related to the coronavirus were first imposed.The state Transportation Department said this week that traffic statewide was near the average level from 2016 to 2018 for the first time since early March although some areas remain slower.On the interstate system of highways around Omaha and between Omaha and Lincoln, traffic was down 9% last week. At the height of the coronavirus restrictions in early April, traffic was down 44% in that area.In Omaha, traffic on streets and highways was 6% below average. Traffic in Lincoln was down 4% last week.Highways in some parts of the state were busier than average last week. Interstate 80 traffic west of Lincoln was up 8% and rural highway traffic in the state was up 5%.

Nebraska traffic back to level seen before virus outbreak

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) - A North Platte man has been charged with sexual assault and incest for a series of incidents that took place over nearly 15 years.

The 50-year-old man is being held on $500,000 bail. He was arraigned Wednesday on four charges of first-degree sexual assault and two charges of incest.

The Associated Press does not generally name victims of sexual assault. The man's name is being withheld to protect the victim's identity.

According to court records, the alleged assaults began when the victim was 10 years old and continued for nearly 15 years.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) - A North Platte man has been charged with sexual assault and incest for a series of incidents that took place over nearly 15 years.The 50-year-old man is being held on $500,000 bail. He was arraigned Wednesday on four charges of first-degree sexual assault and two charges of incest.The Associated Press does not generally name victims of sexual assault. The man's name is being withheld to protect the victim's identity.According to court records, the alleged assaults began when the victim was 10 years old and continued for nearly 15 years.

North Platte man charged with sexual assault, incest

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested an Iowa man after he fled from a crash on Interstate 80 in Keith County.

At approximately 8:15 a.m. MT Wednesday, NSP received a report of a crash near mile marker 130 of I-80. The crash involved a Nissan Altima and a semi-tractor/truck-trailer. The driver of the Altima then fled the scene on foot.

Troopers, Ogallala Police Officers, and Keith County Sheriff’s Deputies searched the area for approximately two hours before the subject was reported walking approximately two miles north of the crash scene. Troopers then located the man, William Cooper, 31, of Sioux City, Iowa, near the intersection of County Road East 120 and County Road East D. Cooper was taken into custody without incident.

Cooper was arrested for leaving the scene of an accident, obstructing a police officer, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana – less than an ounce, and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Cooper was lodged in Keith County Jail

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested an Iowa man after he fled from a crash on Interstate 80 in Keith County.At approximately 8:15 a.m. MT Wednesday, NSP received a report of a crash near mile marker 130 of I-80. The crash involved a Nissan Altima and a semi-tractor/truck-trailer. The driver of the Altima then fled the scene on foot.Troopers, Ogallala Police Officers, and Keith County Sheriff’s Deputies searched the area for approximately two hours before the subject was reported walking approximately two miles north of the crash scene. Troopers then located the man, William Cooper, 31, of Sioux City, Iowa, near the intersection of County Road East 120 and County Road East D. Cooper was taken into custody without incident.Cooper was arrested for leaving the scene of an accident, obstructing a police officer, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana – less than an ounce, and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Cooper was lodged in Keith County Jail

Driver arrested after fleeing crash scene in Keith County

By Larry Pape Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

How much time do you want to spend untangling your fishing line? Zero, none, never! While I cannot guarantee you a tangle-free life, there are ways to help spend more time fishing, and it starts by using the right gear for the conditions and your skill level.

If you are teaching a beginning angler, here is what they need to know about rods, reels and line.

There are four types of fishing reels. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Most spin-casting reels, also known as close-face reels, operate with the push and release of a button. The line seldom comes off the spool in a tangle. There are few exposed parts to break. The price and quality can be anywhere from disposable to heirloom. Perfect. Old anglers, once they have shed their egos, often come back to use the ones they learned to fish with. Buy one of these for your kids and save it for your grandchildren.

• Spinning reels look cool with the bail spinning the string on the spool as the handle is cranked. In the right hands, the spinning reel can cast farther than any other type as the line just falls off the end of the spool. These take a little more finesse, but can be used successfully by practiced beginners.

• A bait-casting reel often is a finely crafted machine in which the line comes off a spool that spins as you cast. The problem is, because the spool can keep spinning after you cast, a huge tangle called a bird’s nest can happen. These reels are efficient for long days of fishing, but are not best for beginners.

• A fly-fishing reel just holds string while not in use; it doesn’t help in casting. Unless you are angling with a special fly rod, you will not need this.

The fishing rod should match the reel type to ensure the rod functions correctly. By purchasing a rod and reel combo, in which both pieces of equipment already are fit together, you will guarantee to get a match. The combo comes in a light, medium or heavy action.

A light action rod will work best for lightweight bluegill, crappie and trout. Bass, carp and channel catfish can usually be handled with a medium or medium-heavy action setups. The only time to consider using a heavy action rod is if you are going after a giant flathead catfish or snagging a paddlefish.

Fishing line also should match the reel size and type. Line is rated for how much weight it takes to break (test strength), and bigger is not better. Monofilament line that is 4- to 8-pound test is best for light-action gear, 10- to 20-pound test for medium action, and 20-pound test up to line that looks like weed-whacker string for heavy-action gear. Super-strength braided string requires special knots and considerations and is more expensive.

If you are just getting into fishing, a helpful resource for all things beginner is Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTIuMjU1OTQ0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.2abKS_RshxDxIlXcvL0-bmMnHZrJINrowgSwv_fFqy0/s/497221905/br/82273151094-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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTIuMjU1OTQ0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.gCZn5O1YQxzvIFNfsKuSyjnG-K9TXugD1p-fkBV_NCM/s/497221905/br/82273151094-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>, where fishing permits also are available for purchase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597286929269.png" alt="Types of fishing reels that can be paired with rods include, from top left to right, spin-casting and fly, and bottom left to right, spinning and bait-casting. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>Types of fishing reels that can be paired with rods include, from top left to right, spin-casting and fly, and bottom left to right, spinning and bait-casting. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Larry Pape Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionHow much time do you want to spend untangling your fishing line? Zero, none, never! While I cannot guarantee you a tangle-free life, there are ways to help spend more time fishing, and it starts by using the right gear for the conditions and your skill level.If you are teaching a beginning angler, here is what they need to know about rods, reels and line.ReelsThere are four types of fishing reels. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages:• Most spin-casting reels, also known as close-face reels, operate with the push and release of a button. The line seldom comes off the spool in a tangle. There are few exposed parts to break. The price and quality can be anywhere from disposable to heirloom. Perfect. Old anglers, once they have shed their egos, often come back to use the ones they learned to fish with. Buy one of these for your kids and save it for your grandchildren.• Spinning reels look cool with the bail spinning the string on the spool as the handle is cranked. In the right hands, the spinning reel can cast farther than any other type as the line just falls off the end of the spool. These take a little more finesse, but can be used successfully by practiced beginners.• A bait-casting reel often is a finely crafted machine in which the line comes off a spool that spins as you cast. The problem is, because the spool can keep spinning after you cast, a huge tangle called a bird’s nest can happen. These reels are efficient for long days of fishing, but are not best for beginners.• A fly-fishing reel just holds string while not in use; it doesn’t help in casting. Unless you are angling with a special fly rod, you will not need this.RodsThe fishing rod should match the reel type to ensure the rod functions correctly. By purchasing a rod and reel combo, in which both pieces of equipment already are fit together, you will guarantee to get a match. The combo comes in a light, medium or heavy action.A light action rod will work best for lightweight bluegill, crappie and trout. Bass, carp and channel catfish can usually be handled with a medium or medium-heavy action setups. The only time to consider using a heavy action rod is if you are going after a giant flathead catfish or snagging a paddlefish.LineFishing line also should match the reel size and type. Line is rated for how much weight it takes to break (test strength), and bigger is not better. Monofilament line that is 4- to 8-pound test is best for light-action gear, 10- to 20-pound test for medium action, and 20-pound test up to line that looks like weed-whacker string for heavy-action gear. Super-strength braided string requires special knots and considerations and is more expensive.If you are just getting into fishing, a helpful resource for all things beginner is Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTIuMjU1OTQ0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.2abKS_RshxDxIlXcvL0-bmMnHZrJINrowgSwv_fFqy0/s/497221905/br/82273151094-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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MTIuMjU1OTQ0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.gCZn5O1YQxzvIFNfsKuSyjnG-K9TXugD1p-fkBV_NCM/s/497221905/br/82273151094-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>, where fishing permits also are available for purchase.

Beginner angler’s guide to rod, reel and line

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported 24 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Wednesday.

18 of these cases are from August 12, 2020:

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported 24 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Wednesday.18 of these cases are from August 12, 2020:1 case is from Thomas County23 cases are from Lincoln CountyAll cases are under investigation.<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…">WCDHD Dashboard</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597286661916.png" alt="covid update august 12 2020.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update august 12 2020.png</figcaption>
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