LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — More employees of the Nebraska prison system have tested positive for the coronavirus.

 The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a statement Saturday night that four staff members had tested positive for COVID-19.

 Two of those work at the Omaha Correctional Center, one works at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and one works at the department’s central office. 

The latest cases bring the number of Nebraska prison staffers infected since the pandemic began to 325. Of those, 228 have recovered. 

The department also said Friday that 677 inmates have tested positive for the virus and four have died. Officials said 312 of them have recovered.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — More employees of the Nebraska prison system have tested positive for the coronavirus. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a statement Saturday night that four staff members had tested positive for COVID-19. Two of those work at the Omaha Correctional Center, one works at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and one works at the department’s central office. The latest cases bring the number of Nebraska prison staffers infected since the pandemic began to 325. Of those, 228 have recovered. The department also said Friday that 677 inmates have tested positive for the virus and four have died. Officials said 312 of them have recovered.

More Nebraska prison employees test positive for COVID-19

One additional COVID-related death is being reported in the Panhandle, a Scotts Bluff County male in his 60s recently passed away. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 50.

“We share our deepest condolences with the family and friends of this gentleman,” said Paulette Schnell, Director of Scotts Bluff County Health Department. “As a community, it’s critical we continue taking every precaution against the COVID virus for our most vulnerable.”

What does swiss cheese have to do with the COVID pandemic response effort? It’s important to recognize that no single intervention is perfect at preventing disease spread.

When you think of swiss cheese, it has various holes but what if there are enough layers of prevention measures being taken that those holes don’t align and ultimately keep people safe.

Each of these measures, or layers for that matter, has imperfections or holes. However, multiple layers improve the success of the response effort. When we say, “we are all in this together,” we are not just being cheesy, it’s because we mean it!

It takes each and every one of us making safe and informed choices not just for ourselves and family members but the overall community as well.

Unified Command confirms 370 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, November 23. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Testing information and access for the Panhandle area:

By PPHDOne additional COVID-related death is being reported in the Panhandle, a Scotts Bluff County male in his 60s recently passed away. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 50.“We share our deepest condolences with the family and friends of this gentleman,” said Paulette Schnell, Director of Scotts Bluff County Health Department. “As a community, it’s critical we continue taking every precaution against the COVID virus for our most vulnerable.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606592053691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>What does swiss cheese have to do with the COVID pandemic response effort? It’s important to recognize that no single intervention is perfect at preventing disease spread.When you think of swiss cheese, it has various holes but what if there are enough layers of prevention measures being taken that those holes don’t align and ultimately keep people safe.Personal Responsibilities:<ul>
 <li>Physical distancing</li><li>Staying home if you are sick</li><li>Masks</li><li>Frequently washing your hands and coughing into your elbow/sleeve</li><li>Avoiding touching your face</li>
 </ul>Shared Responsibilities:<ul>
 <li>Fast and sensitive testing and tracing</li><li>Ventilation, outdoors, air filtration</li><li>Government messaging &amp; financial support</li><li>Quarantine &amp; Isolation</li><li>Vaccines</li>
 </ul>Each of these measures, or layers for that matter, has imperfections or holes. However, multiple layers improve the success of the response effort. When we say, “we are all in this together,” we are not just being cheesy, it’s because we mean it!It takes each and every one of us making safe and informed choices not just for ourselves and family members but the overall community as well.<ul>
 <li>Avoid the Three Cs:</li><li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Unified Command confirms 370 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, November 23. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606522271826.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2-November 27, 2020<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 26,334</li><li>Positive: 5,839</li><li>Cumulative Positivity Rate: 22.2%</li><li>Recovered: 3,379</li><li>Active Cases: 2,410</li><li>Deaths: 50</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 71</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 369</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 42.6%</li><li>Last week’s cases: 743</li><li>Doubling time (November 1-24): 23 days</li>
 </ul>Testing information and access for the Panhandle area:<ul>
 <li>You can sign up for the following free testing at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">Testnebraska.com</a>&nbsp;or 402-207-9377:</li><li>Box Butte General Hospital in&nbsp;Alliance: Monday-Friday, 9-10am</li><li>212 East 24th Street&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Chadron&nbsp;Community Hospital: Mondays &amp; Fridays, 7-9am</li><li>821 Morehead Street (Old Hospital ER Entrance next to Wilson Park)</li><li>Other testing opportunities for symptomatic patients may be available through the hospital as ordered by your Primary Care Practitioner, call the hospital at 747-2466 with questions.</li><li>Gordon&nbsp;Memorial Hospital: Tuesdays &amp; Thursdays, 2-4pm</li><li>Regional West Health Services in&nbsp;Scottsbluff: Mondays, Wednesdays, &amp; Fridays: Noon-3pm; Call 308-630-2100 for other testing opportunities for symptomatic patients.</li><li>Sidney&nbsp;Regional Medical Center: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, &amp; Thursdays, 7-9:30am</li><li>Community Action Health Center in&nbsp;Gering: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, &amp; Thursdays, 7-8am</li><li>Testing is free, sign up at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/yydxr5mc" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/yydxr5mc</a></li><li>Alliance Community Pharmacy in&nbsp;Alliance: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm</li><li>For people experiencing symptoms, same day results. Call 308-629-1045 for appointment, fee is $125.</li><li>Morrill County Community Hospital in&nbsp;Bridgeport: Daily</li><li>Call 308-262-1616 for testing, same day results, insurance can be billed.</li><li>Contact your local hospital or clinic for information on testing access.</li>
 </ul>

PPHD: 370 more virus cases reported in the Panhandle 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Seven of Nebraska’s 10 largest cities have imposed mask mandates to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus, though Gov. Pete Ricketts has resisted ordering them to be worn throughout the state.

 The Omaha World-Herald reports that the cities issued the orders as the number of virus cases, hospitalizations and deaths surged over the last month. 

With the new mandates, more than half of Nebraska’s 1.95 million people now live in a community that requires a mask to be worn indoors. 

Most cities with mandates are in eastern and central Nebraska, including Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney, Norfolk, Columbus and Hastings.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Seven of Nebraska’s 10 largest cities have imposed mask mandates to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus, though Gov. Pete Ricketts has resisted ordering them to be worn throughout the state. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the cities issued the orders as the number of virus cases, hospitalizations and deaths surged over the last month. With the new mandates, more than half of Nebraska’s 1.95 million people now live in a community that requires a mask to be worn indoors. Most cities with mandates are in eastern and central Nebraska, including Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney, Norfolk, Columbus and Hastings.

7 of Nebraska's 10 largest cities have local mask mandates

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska hospital is mourning the death of a nurse who died of the coronavirus as cases surge across the state.

 The nurse, who worked on a surgical unit at Immanuel Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, died Wednesday. 

A letter from CHI Health president Ann Schumacher didn’t provide the nurse’s full name, identifying her only as Daphne. The Lincoln Journal-Star reports that it described her as “smart, kind and compassionate.”

  Meanwhile, seven staff members with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services are positive for the coronavirus and isolating at home. 

The agency said in a news release that four work at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, two at the Omaha Correctional Center and one at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska hospital is mourning the death of a nurse who died of the coronavirus as cases surge across the state. The nurse, who worked on a surgical unit at Immanuel Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, died Wednesday. A letter from CHI Health president Ann Schumacher didn’t provide the nurse’s full name, identifying her only as Daphne. The Lincoln Journal-Star reports that it described her as “smart, kind and compassionate.” Meanwhile, seven staff members with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services are positive for the coronavirus and isolating at home. The agency said in a news release that four work at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, two at the Omaha Correctional Center and one at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.

Nebraska nurse dies of COVID-19 as cases surge

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Officials in northern Wyoming have voted to remove Dr. Ed Zimmerman from his position as Washakie County health officer. 

Zimmerman says he believes it happened in response to the mask mandate he implemented. 

The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Washakie County Commission Chair Fred Frandson said Tuesday that Zimmerman’s departure was not a result of the local mask mandate. 

But Frandson said he could not discuss why Zimmerman was removed because the county does not publicly discuss personnel matters. 

Zimmerman says several health officials were worried they could lose their jobs by implementing a mask mandates.

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Officials in northern Wyoming have voted to remove Dr. Ed Zimmerman from his position as Washakie County health officer. Zimmerman says he believes it happened in response to the mask mandate he implemented. The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Washakie County Commission Chair Fred Frandson said Tuesday that Zimmerman’s departure was not a result of the local mask mandate. But Frandson said he could not discuss why Zimmerman was removed because the county does not publicly discuss personnel matters. Zimmerman says several health officials were worried they could lose their jobs by implementing a mask mandates.

Wyoming health official fired after mask mandate ordered

The Knight Museum ands Sandhills Center annual Christmas Festival has been cancelled this year due to COVID-19.

In a news release the museum said, "We are just as disappointed as everyone else is, but feel this is the right thing to do for our community. Next year will be the 25th year for the Festival and we plan to go all out."

For more information, please contact Jodi Ringbauer at 308-762-2384.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Knight Museum ands Sandhills Center annual Christmas Festival has been cancelled this year due to COVID-19.In a news release the museum said, "We are just as disappointed as everyone else is, but feel this is the right thing to do for our community. Next year will be the 25th year for the Festival and we plan to go all out."For more information, please contact Jodi Ringbauer at 308-762-2384.

Knight Museum cancels annual Christmas Festival 

By KANTELE FRANKO-Associated Press&nbsp;&nbsp;

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The infection of a single cafeteria worker was all it took to close classrooms in the small Lowellville school district in northeastern Ohio, forcing at least two weeks of remote learning.

Not only did the worker who tested positive for the coronavirus need to quarantine, but so did the entire cafeteria staff and most of the transportation crew, because some employees work on both. The district of about 500 students sharing one building had resumed in-person instruction with masks and social distancing and avoided any student infections. But without enough substitute workers, administrators had no choice but to temporarily abandon classroom operations and meal services.

“It boils down to the staff,” Lowellville Superintendent Geno Thomas said. “If you can’t staff a school, you have to bring it to remote.”

Around the country, contact tracing and isolation protocols are sidelining school employees and closing school buildings. The staffing challenges force students out of classrooms, even in districts where officials say the health risks of in-person learning are manageable. And the absences add to the strain from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/indiana-virus-outbreak-archive-911a83b084ec23debadbd92bf559916d">wave of early retirements&nbsp;</a>and leaves taken by employees worried about health risks.

It’s another layer of the “tremendous stress” faced by administrators and educators navigating the pandemic, said Dan Domenech, executive director of AASA, the nation’s leading school superintendents association.

The superintendent in Groton, Connecticut, recently announced the entire district would transition to distance learning for two weeks following Thanksgiving — a decision driven primarily by a staffing shortage.

“When you have the wrong teacher, like an art teacher who over a two-day period sees as many as 80 children, you’ve got the possibility of a really significant number of contacts,” he said. “It’s not being transmitted in schools apparently, but we have lots of cases of children and staff members who are getting it very typically from a family member.”

In Kansas, the 27,000-student Shawnee Mission School District announced recently that middle and high school students would return to remote learning until January because of difficulty keeping buildings staffed. Scores of employees are quarantined because of known or potential exposure.

“It is important to emphasize that this decision is not being made because of COVID-19 transmission within our schools,” Superintendent Mike Fulton wrote to families. He said available substitute teachers would be shifted to elementary schools to keep up in-person learning for younger students.

Social distancing, wearing masks, washing hands and completing daily COVID-19 assessments “seem to be working to keep transmission low within schools,” Fulton said.

The effects of school staffing struggles have prompted some officials to suggest relaxing quarantine rules.

On Monday, leaders of several Louisiana public school systems told the state House health committee that too many students are missing in-person classroom instruction because they have been sent home for 14 days to quarantine. The state health department said it would not recommend any changes to quarantine regulations.

“We have a lot of healthy kids who are home when they don’t need to be,” West Baton Rouge Parish Superintendent Wesley Watts told lawmakers. “We’re not asking to do away with quarantine. We’re just asking for some modifications.”

In Missouri, Republican Gov. Mike Parson took a different approach to trying to keep schools open. He announced new guidance this month that teachers and students exposed to an infected person no longer have to quarantine for two weeks as long as both people were wearing masks. He said quarantines had interrupted learning and created staff shortages.

Shortages of substitute teachers have compounded the personnel problems.

“I think everybody understands when you can’t have enough subs to fill the roles, it’s also a safety issue: You can’t have that many children without support from adults,” said Julie Mackett, a kindergarten teacher in Perrysburg, Ohio, who went through her own two-week quarantine early in the school year after a student tested positive.

Staffing shortages in her district in mid-November moved up the start of a return to remote learning around Thanksgiving for Perrysburg’s high schoolers, and the district was closely monitoring elementary schools.

Cincinnati’s public school system pointed to staffing concerns and surging virus cases in southwest Ohio when it decided to shift to distance learning until after winter break. It noted that community spread of the virus directly affects staff absences.

“Teachers and staff must stay home when sick, when in quarantine as a result of a close contact or as needed to take care of family members,” the district said.

Associated Press writers Melinda Deslatte in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Michael Melia in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606409036922.png" alt="Photo: pixabay.com" />
 <figcaption>Photo: pixabay.com</figcaption>
 </figure>By KANTELE FRANKO-Associated Press&nbsp;&nbsp;COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The infection of a single cafeteria worker was all it took to close classrooms in the small Lowellville school district in northeastern Ohio, forcing at least two weeks of remote learning.Not only did the worker who tested positive for the coronavirus need to quarantine, but so did the entire cafeteria staff and most of the transportation crew, because some employees work on both. The district of about 500 students sharing one building had resumed in-person instruction with masks and social distancing and avoided any student infections. But without enough substitute workers, administrators had no choice but to temporarily abandon classroom operations and meal services.“It boils down to the staff,” Lowellville Superintendent Geno Thomas said. “If you can’t staff a school, you have to bring it to remote.”Around the country, contact tracing and isolation protocols are sidelining school employees and closing school buildings. The staffing challenges force students out of classrooms, even in districts where officials say the health risks of in-person learning are manageable. And the absences add to the strain from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/indiana-virus-outbreak-archive-911a83b084ec23debadbd92bf559916d">wave of early retirements&nbsp;</a>and leaves taken by employees worried about health risks.It’s another layer of the “tremendous stress” faced by administrators and educators navigating the pandemic, said Dan Domenech, executive director of AASA, the nation’s leading school superintendents association.The superintendent in Groton, Connecticut, recently announced the entire district would transition to distance learning for two weeks following Thanksgiving — a decision driven primarily by a staffing shortage.“When you have the wrong teacher, like an art teacher who over a two-day period sees as many as 80 children, you’ve got the possibility of a really significant number of contacts,” he said. “It’s not being transmitted in schools apparently, but we have lots of cases of children and staff members who are getting it very typically from a family member.”In Kansas, the 27,000-student Shawnee Mission School District announced recently that middle and high school students would return to remote learning until January because of difficulty keeping buildings staffed. Scores of employees are quarantined because of known or potential exposure.“It is important to emphasize that this decision is not being made because of COVID-19 transmission within our schools,” Superintendent Mike Fulton wrote to families. He said available substitute teachers would be shifted to elementary schools to keep up in-person learning for younger students.Social distancing, wearing masks, washing hands and completing daily COVID-19 assessments “seem to be working to keep transmission low within schools,” Fulton said.The effects of school staffing struggles have prompted some officials to suggest relaxing quarantine rules.On Monday, leaders of several Louisiana public school systems told the state House health committee that too many students are missing in-person classroom instruction because they have been sent home for 14 days to quarantine. The state health department said it would not recommend any changes to quarantine regulations.“We have a lot of healthy kids who are home when they don’t need to be,” West Baton Rouge Parish Superintendent Wesley Watts told lawmakers. “We’re not asking to do away with quarantine. We’re just asking for some modifications.”In Missouri, Republican Gov. Mike Parson took a different approach to trying to keep schools open. He announced new guidance this month that teachers and students exposed to an infected person no longer have to quarantine for two weeks as long as both people were wearing masks. He said quarantines had interrupted learning and created staff shortages.Shortages of substitute teachers have compounded the personnel problems.“I think everybody understands when you can’t have enough subs to fill the roles, it’s also a safety issue: You can’t have that many children without support from adults,” said Julie Mackett, a kindergarten teacher in Perrysburg, Ohio, who went through her own two-week quarantine early in the school year after a student tested positive.Staffing shortages in her district in mid-November moved up the start of a return to remote learning around Thanksgiving for Perrysburg’s high schoolers, and the district was closely monitoring elementary schools.Cincinnati’s public school system pointed to staffing concerns and surging virus cases in southwest Ohio when it decided to shift to distance learning until after winter break. It noted that community spread of the virus directly affects staff absences.“Teachers and staff must stay home when sick, when in quarantine as a result of a close contact or as needed to take care of family members,” the district said.___Associated Press writers Melinda Deslatte in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Michael Melia in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed to this report.

Schools struggle to stay open as quarantines sideline staff

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to sweep across the panhandle. The Alliance Volunteer Fire Department reminds residents to be safe for the Thanksgiving holiday and urges everyone to wear a mask.&nbsp; "The members of the Alliance Fire Department want to take a moment to wish you all a fire-safe and Happy Thanksgiving," said Troy Shoemaker, Alliance Fire Chief. "We know that this will not be the typical Thanksgiving that most of us are used to, but we are positive that each one of us can think of at least one thing that we are both grateful and thankful for this year." Chief Shoemaker said he is grateful for his team and&nbsp;Emergency Medical Technicians.&nbsp; "I know as the Alliance Fire Chief, I have 48 dedicated people I am thankful for," Shoemaker said. "Those are all of our volunteer firefighters and EMT's that answer the call for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days out of the year. Not that I'm wanting to make 2020 any longer than it needs to be, but, in case you didn't know, don't care or just plain forgot 2020 is actually a leap year so we have 366 days that these dedicated volunteers are answering the call for help." Shoemaker urges the community to wear a mask to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.&nbsp; "I would like to ask all of you, our friends, neighbors, and loved ones, 'Help us, Help you'. Please wear a mask when in public, practice social distancing, and please try to avoid the 3C's - crowded places, close contacts, and confined spaces so together we can bend the curve and slow the surge of positive cases in our region and here at home. Last but not least, in the words of Fire Chief A.V. Brunacini 'Be Nice'. For me, I learned that from my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Phyllis Pebley."&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe COVID-19 pandemic continues to sweep across the panhandle. The Alliance Volunteer Fire Department reminds residents to be safe for the Thanksgiving holiday and urges everyone to wear a mask.&nbsp; "The members of the Alliance Fire Department want to take a moment to wish you all a fire-safe and Happy Thanksgiving," said Troy Shoemaker, Alliance Fire Chief. "We know that this will not be the typical Thanksgiving that most of us are used to, but we are positive that each one of us can think of at least one thing that we are both grateful and thankful for this year." Chief Shoemaker said he is grateful for his team and&nbsp;Emergency Medical Technicians.&nbsp; "I know as the Alliance Fire Chief, I have 48 dedicated people I am thankful for," Shoemaker said. "Those are all of our volunteer firefighters and EMT's that answer the call for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days out of the year. Not that I'm wanting to make 2020 any longer than it needs to be, but, in case you didn't know, don't care or just plain forgot 2020 is actually a leap year so we have 366 days that these dedicated volunteers are answering the call for help." Shoemaker urges the community to wear a mask to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.&nbsp; "I would like to ask all of you, our friends, neighbors, and loved ones, 'Help us, Help you'. Please wear a mask when in public, practice social distancing, and please try to avoid the 3C's - crowded places, close contacts, and confined spaces so together we can bend the curve and slow the surge of positive cases in our region and here at home. Last but not least, in the words of Fire Chief A.V. Brunacini 'Be Nice'. For me, I learned that from my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Phyllis Pebley."&nbsp;&nbsp;

AVFD sends Thanksgiving greeting, urges citizens to wear a mask

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon says he's tested positive for COVID-19. 

Gordon made the announcement Wednesday, saying he had only minor symptoms and plans to continue working remotely. 

The governor's office at the Wyoming State Capitol was closed on Tuesday for a deep cleaning after another office employee tested positive for the respiratory virus. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people with COVID-19 isolate themselves for 10 days after the onset of symptoms. 

Less than two weeks ago, Gordon said Wyoming residents needed to be more responsible about preventing the spread of COVID-19 and that he was considering additional public health orders.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon says he's tested positive for COVID-19. Gordon made the announcement Wednesday, saying he had only minor symptoms and plans to continue working remotely. The governor's office at the Wyoming State Capitol was closed on Tuesday for a deep cleaning after another office employee tested positive for the respiratory virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people with COVID-19 isolate themselves for 10 days after the onset of symptoms. Less than two weeks ago, Gordon said Wyoming residents needed to be more responsible about preventing the spread of COVID-19 and that he was considering additional public health orders.

Wyoming Gov Mark Gordon tests positive for COVID-19

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials warn that the state’s modest progress in slowing the COVID-19 infection rate could be undone by holiday gatherings. 

The state on Wednesday added 28 more deaths from the illness caused by the coronavirus, pushing its November total to 424, which is one fewer than the 425 it had in every other month of the pandemic combined. 

Despite the sharp increase in deaths, the average number of new daily cases has declined over the past two weeks. 

But health officials warned that Thanksgiving gatherings could lead to a resurgence. 

South Dakota still has the nation’s second-highest number of new cases per capita over the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials warn that the state’s modest progress in slowing the COVID-19 infection rate could be undone by holiday gatherings. The state on Wednesday added 28 more deaths from the illness caused by the coronavirus, pushing its November total to 424, which is one fewer than the 425 it had in every other month of the pandemic combined. Despite the sharp increase in deaths, the average number of new daily cases has declined over the past two weeks. But health officials warned that Thanksgiving gatherings could lead to a resurgence. South Dakota still has the nation’s second-highest number of new cases per capita over the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins

South Dakota officials: Holiday could undo virus progress

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Two more of Nebraska’s biggest cities joined the growing list of communities that have passed local mask requirements in the face of the governor’s refusal to issue a statewide mask order to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. 

Grand Island and La Vista voted Tuesday to approve mask mandates, joining the likes of Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Beatrice and Ralston. Gov. Pete Ricketts has rejected issuing a statewide mandate because he believes it would generate resistance. 

The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus decreased slightly on Tuesday, to 936, but the total remains close to the point at which Ricketts said he would impose more social distancing restrictions.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Two more of Nebraska’s biggest cities joined the growing list of communities that have passed local mask requirements in the face of the governor’s refusal to issue a statewide mask order to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. Grand Island and La Vista voted Tuesday to approve mask mandates, joining the likes of Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Beatrice and Ralston. Gov. Pete Ricketts has rejected issuing a statewide mandate because he believes it would generate resistance. The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus decreased slightly on Tuesday, to 936, but the total remains close to the point at which Ricketts said he would impose more social distancing restrictions.

Two more Nebraska cities require masks amid COVID-19 surge

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty

It’s that time of year when we will begin seeing those red kettles and Salvation Army bell ringers at area stores. The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign for Box Butte County starts December 1 and runs through December 23.&nbsp;It’s our chance to make the holidays brighter for someone in need.

Red kettle donations stay local – directly impacting the lives of our neighbors by helping them in their time of need.&nbsp; The funds raised by Salvation Army bell ringers make a year-round impact to our community through grocery, prescription, and utility assistance. Some funds are used for motel rooms, medical gas vouchers, emergency services, and stranded motorist assistance.&nbsp;Funds serve residents of Box Butte County and are distributed by Northwest Community Action Partnership and the Alliance Police Department.

The Salvation Army is seeking volunteers to ring bells at three kettle locations in Alliance: Grocery Kart, Dollar General on Flack Avenue, and Carter’s Home, Hardware&nbsp;&nbsp;&amp; Appliance.&nbsp;The Salvation Army will have miniature Red Counter Kettles that will be located at J&amp;Js Pitstop, Git’N Split, and Grocery Kart Alcohol as well.&nbsp;

Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday from 5 - 7pm at Grocery Kart and Dollar General and on Saturday from 10 am – 12pm and 12 – 3 pm throughout December at all three bell ringer locations.&nbsp;Volunteers who will ring bells can sign up at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__registertoring.com&amp;d=DwQFaQ&amp;c=mY37A2G297NscUQ1ttd5VQ&amp;r=a0fhqggObJQ5ySTV0tNz6Q&amp;m=2iImQaSQOYUW0E5HUN0WWyYrcmRujwT7mnvV0Z5r30A&amp;s=NJL-55_XxcWgfSN557r8tDo79AOtKsQsRET5ANn1crI&amp;e=" target="_blank">registertoring.com</a>&nbsp;or can call Jessica Manion at First National Bank (FNBO) at 308-763-2167 to volunteer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This year the Salvation Army is implementing protocols to ensure the health and safety of Bell Ringers and store patrons.&nbsp; They ask that all volunteers please wear a mask and follow CDC and local guidelines related to exposure. Do not ring bells if exhibiting symptoms or if&nbsp;you&nbsp;have had any known exposure to anyone with COVID-19 in the last 14&nbsp;days.&nbsp; As an individual approaches the kettle, please maintain social&nbsp;distancing.&nbsp; All kettle equipment will be cleaned prior to&nbsp;each shift and&nbsp;in accordance with&nbsp;guidelines.

Since people are visiting stores less due to COVID, there are other ways they can donate.&nbsp;Give by dropping off a donation to The Salvation Army at FNBO in Alliance, or donate online at&nbsp;<a href="http://registertoring.com/" target="_blank">registertoring.com</a>&nbsp;and clicking Donate Now.&nbsp; Just like red kettle donations, these donations stay local.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Salvation Army is a Christian church and an international&nbsp;charitable organization, founded in 1865 in London. The organization is active in 131 countries. Its founders sought to bring&nbsp;salvation&nbsp;to the poor, destitute, and hungry by meeting both their "physical and spiritual needs”. In the United States the organization runs thrift stores and provides economic assistance to those in need, especially after disasters or after homes have been destroyed.&nbsp;

As you are out and about in December, remember to drop those coins and bills in the red kettles at Grocery Kart, Dollar General, Carter’s, J&amp;J, and Git ’N Split. The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign continues to be a part of our Christmas traditions in Box Butte County, and our donations are appreciated by so many!

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on PovertyIt’s that time of year when we will begin seeing those red kettles and Salvation Army bell ringers at area stores. The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign for Box Butte County starts December 1 and runs through December 23.&nbsp;It’s our chance to make the holidays brighter for someone in need.Red kettle donations stay local – directly impacting the lives of our neighbors by helping them in their time of need.&nbsp; The funds raised by Salvation Army bell ringers make a year-round impact to our community through grocery, prescription, and utility assistance. Some funds are used for motel rooms, medical gas vouchers, emergency services, and stranded motorist assistance.&nbsp;Funds serve residents of Box Butte County and are distributed by Northwest Community Action Partnership and the Alliance Police Department.The Salvation Army is seeking volunteers to ring bells at three kettle locations in Alliance: Grocery Kart, Dollar General on Flack Avenue, and Carter’s Home, Hardware&nbsp;&nbsp;&amp; Appliance.&nbsp;The Salvation Army will have miniature Red Counter Kettles that will be located at J&amp;Js Pitstop, Git’N Split, and Grocery Kart Alcohol as well.&nbsp;Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday from 5 - 7pm at Grocery Kart and Dollar General and on Saturday from 10 am – 12pm and 12 – 3 pm throughout December at all three bell ringer locations.&nbsp;Volunteers who will ring bells can sign up at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__registertoring.com&amp;d=DwQFaQ&amp;c=mY37A2G297NscUQ1ttd5VQ&amp;r=a0fhqggObJQ5ySTV0tNz6Q&amp;m=2iImQaSQOYUW0E5HUN0WWyYrcmRujwT7mnvV0Z5r30A&amp;s=NJL-55_XxcWgfSN557r8tDo79AOtKsQsRET5ANn1crI&amp;e=" target="_blank">registertoring.com</a>&nbsp;or can call Jessica Manion at First National Bank (FNBO) at 308-763-2167 to volunteer.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year the Salvation Army is implementing protocols to ensure the health and safety of Bell Ringers and store patrons.&nbsp; They ask that all volunteers please wear a mask and follow CDC and local guidelines related to exposure. Do not ring bells if exhibiting symptoms or if&nbsp;you&nbsp;have had any known exposure to anyone with COVID-19 in the last 14&nbsp;days.&nbsp; As an individual approaches the kettle, please maintain social&nbsp;distancing.&nbsp; All kettle equipment will be cleaned prior to&nbsp;each shift and&nbsp;in accordance with&nbsp;guidelines.Since people are visiting stores less due to COVID, there are other ways they can donate.&nbsp;Give by dropping off a donation to The Salvation Army at FNBO in Alliance, or donate online at&nbsp;<a href="http://registertoring.com/" target="_blank">registertoring.com</a>&nbsp;and clicking Donate Now.&nbsp; Just like red kettle donations, these donations stay local.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Salvation Army is a Christian church and an international&nbsp;charitable organization, founded in 1865 in London. The organization is active in 131 countries. Its founders sought to bring&nbsp;salvation&nbsp;to the poor, destitute, and hungry by meeting both their "physical and spiritual needs”. In the United States the organization runs thrift stores and provides economic assistance to those in need, especially after disasters or after homes have been destroyed.&nbsp;As you are out and about in December, remember to drop those coins and bills in the red kettles at Grocery Kart, Dollar General, Carter’s, J&amp;J, and Git ’N Split. The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign continues to be a part of our Christmas traditions in Box Butte County, and our donations are appreciated by so many!

Poverty In Our Area: The Salvation Army 

BEIJING (AP) — China says it has detected the coronavirus on packages of imported frozen food, but how valid are its claims and how serious is the threat to public health?

Frozen shrimp imported from an Ecuadorian company was banned for one week on Tuesday in a continuing series of such temporary bans.

While experts say the virus can survive for a time on cardboard and plastic containers, it remains unclear how serious a risk that poses. Like so many issues surrounding the pandemic, the matter has swiftly become politicized.

China has rejected complaints from the U.S. and others, saying it is putting people’s lives first. Experts say they generally don’t consider the presence of the virus on packaging to be a significant health risk.

A look at the issue and some of the conclusions so far:

Packaging first became a major issue with outbreaks in China linked to wholesale food markets, including one in June on the outskirts of Beijing. That prompted the removal of smoked salmon from supermarket shelves and has snowballed into multiple cases nationwide involving chicken, beef and seafood from nearly two dozen countries. At some supermarkets, imported meat now comes with a sticker declaring it to be virus-free.

Infections among freight handlers have also placed suspicion on packaging. Person-to-person transmission hasn’t been ruled out, however, and China has yet to release evidence that packaging was indeed the route of infection.

Trading partners, including the U.S., New Zealand, Canada and the EU, say they’re unclear on China’s methodology and have seen no solid evidence that their products carried the virus. The U.S. has questioned whether China’s crackdown is scientifically based and suggested the bans may amount to an unfair trade barrier.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian called the U.S. accusations “totally groundless and unreasonable.” China’s measures are “necessary following the spirit of putting people’s lives first and protecting people’s health,” he said last week.

In a statement to The Associated Press, the World Health Organization said cases of live viruses being found on packaging appear to be “rare and isolated.” While the virus can “survive a long time under cold storage conditions,” there is no evidence of people contracting COVID-19 from consuming food, it said.

The virus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 is overwhelmingly transmitted through respiratory droplets and smaller sized particles passed through the air, underscoring the importance of mask-wearing.

Yet the virus can also be present on surfaces, and public health officials have urged people to wash their hands carefully and avoid physical contact with others. In general, the colder and dryer that conditions are, the longer the virus can survive on surfaces.

Wiping down countertops, handrails and other surfaces is a common way to ensure safety. Some people have also gone to the extreme of disinfecting packages brought into their homes, both by themselves or by delivery services.

Virus traces found on packaging can be infectious or non-infectious. The extremely sensitive tests being used can detect both active viruses and their remnants, without being able to distinguish between them, said Timothy Newsome, a virologist at the University of Sydney.

“It is possible and may represent some risk, but it’s certainly at the lower end of risk for transmission,” he said. “We know low temperatures do stabilize the virus. Nonetheless, I think things which have been transported and surface transmission — there’s a low risk of it.”

A positive test “doesn’t indicate infectious virus, just that some signal from the virus is present on that surface,” said Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health.

“I’ve seen no convincing data that SARS-CoV-2 on food packaging poses a significant risk for infection,” he said.

BEIJING (AP) — China says it has detected the coronavirus on packages of imported frozen food, but how valid are its claims and how serious is the threat to public health?Frozen shrimp imported from an Ecuadorian company was banned for one week on Tuesday in a continuing series of such temporary bans.While experts say the virus can survive for a time on cardboard and plastic containers, it remains unclear how serious a risk that poses. Like so many issues surrounding the pandemic, the matter has swiftly become politicized.China has rejected complaints from the U.S. and others, saying it is putting people’s lives first. Experts say they generally don’t consider the presence of the virus on packaging to be a significant health risk.A look at the issue and some of the conclusions so far:CHINA’S CRACKDOWNPackaging first became a major issue with outbreaks in China linked to wholesale food markets, including one in June on the outskirts of Beijing. That prompted the removal of smoked salmon from supermarket shelves and has snowballed into multiple cases nationwide involving chicken, beef and seafood from nearly two dozen countries. At some supermarkets, imported meat now comes with a sticker declaring it to be virus-free.Infections among freight handlers have also placed suspicion on packaging. Person-to-person transmission hasn’t been ruled out, however, and China has yet to release evidence that packaging was indeed the route of infection.OVERSEAS COMPLAINTSTrading partners, including the U.S., New Zealand, Canada and the EU, say they’re unclear on China’s methodology and have seen no solid evidence that their products carried the virus. The U.S. has questioned whether China’s crackdown is scientifically based and suggested the bans may amount to an unfair trade barrier.Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian called the U.S. accusations “totally groundless and unreasonable.” China’s measures are “necessary following the spirit of putting people’s lives first and protecting people’s health,” he said last week.In a statement to The Associated Press, the World Health Organization said cases of live viruses being found on packaging appear to be “rare and isolated.” While the virus can “survive a long time under cold storage conditions,” there is no evidence of people contracting COVID-19 from consuming food, it said.SURFACE TRANSMISSIONThe virus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 is overwhelmingly transmitted through respiratory droplets and smaller sized particles passed through the air, underscoring the importance of mask-wearing.Yet the virus can also be present on surfaces, and public health officials have urged people to wash their hands carefully and avoid physical contact with others. In general, the colder and dryer that conditions are, the longer the virus can survive on surfaces.Wiping down countertops, handrails and other surfaces is a common way to ensure safety. Some people have also gone to the extreme of disinfecting packages brought into their homes, both by themselves or by delivery services.WHAT EXPERTS SAYVirus traces found on packaging can be infectious or non-infectious. The extremely sensitive tests being used can detect both active viruses and their remnants, without being able to distinguish between them, said Timothy Newsome, a virologist at the University of Sydney.“It is possible and may represent some risk, but it’s certainly at the lower end of risk for transmission,” he said. “We know low temperatures do stabilize the virus. Nonetheless, I think things which have been transported and surface transmission — there’s a low risk of it.”A positive test “doesn’t indicate infectious virus, just that some signal from the virus is present on that surface,” said Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health.“I’ve seen no convincing data that SARS-CoV-2 on food packaging poses a significant risk for infection,” he said.___

China claims coronavirus found on frozen foods

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming's death toll because of COVID-19 continues to rise. 

The state health department on Monday reported 26 more deaths due to the disease, setting a new daily record. 

The previous daily record for an increase in the state’s death toll was 21, the total on Thursday. 

The state’s death count lags behind when the deaths occurred, sometimes by a few weeks, because the state health department does not update its tally until it receives death certificates. 

So far, November’s death toll is more than three times as high as the previous monthly record of 37 deaths set in October.

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming's death toll because of COVID-19 continues to rise. The state health department on Monday reported 26 more deaths due to the disease, setting a new daily record. The previous daily record for an increase in the state’s death toll was 21, the total on Thursday. The state’s death count lags behind when the deaths occurred, sometimes by a few weeks, because the state health department does not update its tally until it receives death certificates. So far, November’s death toll is more than three times as high as the previous monthly record of 37 deaths set in October.

Wyoming reports 26 more COVID deaths, a new daily record

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A petition drive in Lincoln seeks to recall the mayor and most of the city council, an effort spurred by the city leaders’ actions during the coronavirus pandemic.

 The Lincoln Journal Star reports that LNK Recall organizers on Monday took the petitions to the County-City Building as the council held a meeting. 

Several dozen people waited near the entrance to sign the petitions. 

Meanwhile, a counter protester stood nearby chanting, “My daughter’s a nurse. Don’t make it worse. Wear a mask.” 

The recall effort accuses Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird of seeking authoritarian control and attacking the liberty of Lincoln residents.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A petition drive in Lincoln seeks to recall the mayor and most of the city council, an effort spurred by the city leaders’ actions during the coronavirus pandemic. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that LNK Recall organizers on Monday took the petitions to the County-City Building as the council held a meeting. Several dozen people waited near the entrance to sign the petitions. Meanwhile, a counter protester stood nearby chanting, “My daughter’s a nurse. Don’t make it worse. Wear a mask.” The recall effort accuses Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird of seeking authoritarian control and attacking the liberty of Lincoln residents.

Petition seeks to recall Lincoln mayor, council members

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 in Nebraska remains near record levels, but the total has remained relatively stable over the past week. 

The state said 971 people were hospitalized with the virus on Monday. 

Over the past week, that figure has gone up and down between a low of 961 last Wednesday and Friday’s record of 987. But more social distancing restrictions could still be triggered soon because more than 23% of the state’s hospital beds are occupied by COVID-19 patients. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts has said that more restrictions will be imposed when that figure reaches 25% of the state’s hospital beds.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 in Nebraska remains near record levels, but the total has remained relatively stable over the past week. The state said 971 people were hospitalized with the virus on Monday. Over the past week, that figure has gone up and down between a low of 961 last Wednesday and Friday’s record of 987. But more social distancing restrictions could still be triggered soon because more than 23% of the state’s hospital beds are occupied by COVID-19 patients. Gov. Pete Ricketts has said that more restrictions will be imposed when that figure reaches 25% of the state’s hospital beds.

Nebraska virus hospitalizations remain near record levels

It’s fitting to set aside time each year to express gratitude to God and to one another for the many blessings we enjoy.&nbsp; In seasons of peace and plenty, as well as in times of war and loss, Americans have faithfully carried on Thanksgiving traditions.&nbsp; During challenging times, it’s even more important to remember the abundant blessings we enjoy as Americans.

In 2001, President George W. Bush issued a Thanksgiving proclamation a couple months after the tragic September 11th&nbsp;terrorist attacks.&nbsp; The sentiments he expressed ring true this year in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

“During these extraordinary times, we find particular assurance from our Thanksgiving tradition, which reminds us that we, as a people and individually, always have reason to hope and trust in God, despite great adversity....In thankfulness and humility, we acknowledge, especially now, our dependence on One greater than ourselves. &nbsp;On this day of Thanksgiving, let our thanksgiving be revealed in the compassionate support we render to our fellow citizens who are grieving unimaginable loss; and let us reach out with care to those in need of food, shelter, and words of hope. &nbsp;May Almighty God, who is our refuge and our strength in this time of trouble, watch over our homeland, protect us, and grant us patience, resolve, and wisdom in all that is to come.”

As we finish 2020, let’s draw strength from the example of previous American generations who have overcome war, economic depression, disaster, and even pandemics.&nbsp; Let’s use our Nebraska grit to slow the spread of the virus as we get through this together.&nbsp;

At Thanksgiving time, we usually join with friends and family for a large meal of turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.&nbsp; This year, Nebraskans are holding smaller gatherings—or getting together virtually—to slow the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp; Even if you’re unable to gather with family this holiday, find a way to stay connected by phone or video.&nbsp; It’s important for us to support one another as we cope with the disruptions of the coronavirus.

Although Thanksgiving in 2020 may look different for you, there are still plenty of reasons to give thanks.&nbsp; Here are a few that come to mind for me. &nbsp;As Americans, we’re blessed to live in a time of relative peace.&nbsp; Even with the disruptions of the coronavirus, we enjoy prosperity that would have been unimaginable to the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth Rock.&nbsp; Our Constitution allows for us to exercise many freedoms: religious freedom, freedom of the press, and the freedom of speech.&nbsp; Many military servicemen and women put their lives on the line every day to protect our Republic and these freedoms.&nbsp; We are grateful for their service and sacrifice.

Our free country and free enterprise system have given us great prosperity.&nbsp; In the midst of this pandemic, we’re blessed with technology to connect with loved ones living far away.&nbsp; We’re blessed to have excellent health care.&nbsp; We’re blessed to live in a scientifically advanced country with the capability of rapidly developing vaccines.

Despite the pandemic, Nebraska is expected to experience a bountiful harvest this year.&nbsp; Nebraska’s corn growers are forecasted to bring in a record of 1.82 billion bushels.&nbsp; Soybean production is up 5% from last year to about 300 million bushels.&nbsp; The sorghum crop of 12.4 million bushels is also projected to exceed last year’s numbers.&nbsp; Dry edible bean production is forecasted to be up 85% from 2019, and sugar beet production is expected be 38% higher than last year.

This year, we are especially grateful for our healthcare workers. &nbsp;Nurses, doctors, hospital staff, and public health leaders are on the front lines working long hours to help Nebraskans stay healthy during the pandemic.&nbsp; As we enter this holiday season, our hospitals are counting on Nebraskans to be smart in their social interactions to help slow the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp; We all need to do our part to help them by wearing a mask, washing our hands often, and watching our distance.&nbsp; Nebraskans are hard-working folks, and we don’t like to be on the sidelines.&nbsp; It’s critically important, however, for everyone to stay home when sick to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Our Local Health Departments tell us the virus is spreading at informal gatherings, usually in people’s homes.&nbsp; As you think about celebrating the holidays, please keep gatherings small and avoid the “Three Cs”, even in private settings.&nbsp; Avoid&nbsp;crowded places&nbsp;where you can’t practice social distancing.&nbsp; Avoid&nbsp;close contacts&nbsp;where you’re within six feet of someone for 15 minutes or more.&nbsp; And avoid&nbsp;confined spaces&nbsp;with poor ventilation.&nbsp; Using these tools is the best way to support our healthcare workers and protect our hospitals.

If you have questions about Nebraska’s coronavirus response, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; I am grateful to the Nebraskans who’ll be working this Thanksgiving weekend to help folks stay healthy in hospitals and nursing homes.&nbsp; I wish everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday.

It’s fitting to set aside time each year to express gratitude to God and to one another for the many blessings we enjoy.&nbsp; In seasons of peace and plenty, as well as in times of war and loss, Americans have faithfully carried on Thanksgiving traditions.&nbsp; During challenging times, it’s even more important to remember the abundant blessings we enjoy as Americans.In 2001, President George W. Bush issued a Thanksgiving proclamation a couple months after the tragic September 11th&nbsp;terrorist attacks.&nbsp; The sentiments he expressed ring true this year in light of the coronavirus pandemic.“During these extraordinary times, we find particular assurance from our Thanksgiving tradition, which reminds us that we, as a people and individually, always have reason to hope and trust in God, despite great adversity....In thankfulness and humility, we acknowledge, especially now, our dependence on One greater than ourselves. &nbsp;On this day of Thanksgiving, let our thanksgiving be revealed in the compassionate support we render to our fellow citizens who are grieving unimaginable loss; and let us reach out with care to those in need of food, shelter, and words of hope. &nbsp;May Almighty God, who is our refuge and our strength in this time of trouble, watch over our homeland, protect us, and grant us patience, resolve, and wisdom in all that is to come.”As we finish 2020, let’s draw strength from the example of previous American generations who have overcome war, economic depression, disaster, and even pandemics.&nbsp; Let’s use our Nebraska grit to slow the spread of the virus as we get through this together.&nbsp;At Thanksgiving time, we usually join with friends and family for a large meal of turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.&nbsp; This year, Nebraskans are holding smaller gatherings—or getting together virtually—to slow the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp; Even if you’re unable to gather with family this holiday, find a way to stay connected by phone or video.&nbsp; It’s important for us to support one another as we cope with the disruptions of the coronavirus.Although Thanksgiving in 2020 may look different for you, there are still plenty of reasons to give thanks.&nbsp; Here are a few that come to mind for me. &nbsp;As Americans, we’re blessed to live in a time of relative peace.&nbsp; Even with the disruptions of the coronavirus, we enjoy prosperity that would have been unimaginable to the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth Rock.&nbsp; Our Constitution allows for us to exercise many freedoms: religious freedom, freedom of the press, and the freedom of speech.&nbsp; Many military servicemen and women put their lives on the line every day to protect our Republic and these freedoms.&nbsp; We are grateful for their service and sacrifice.Our free country and free enterprise system have given us great prosperity.&nbsp; In the midst of this pandemic, we’re blessed with technology to connect with loved ones living far away.&nbsp; We’re blessed to have excellent health care.&nbsp; We’re blessed to live in a scientifically advanced country with the capability of rapidly developing vaccines.Despite the pandemic, Nebraska is expected to experience a bountiful harvest this year.&nbsp; Nebraska’s corn growers are forecasted to bring in a record of 1.82 billion bushels.&nbsp; Soybean production is up 5% from last year to about 300 million bushels.&nbsp; The sorghum crop of 12.4 million bushels is also projected to exceed last year’s numbers.&nbsp; Dry edible bean production is forecasted to be up 85% from 2019, and sugar beet production is expected be 38% higher than last year.This year, we are especially grateful for our healthcare workers. &nbsp;Nurses, doctors, hospital staff, and public health leaders are on the front lines working long hours to help Nebraskans stay healthy during the pandemic.&nbsp; As we enter this holiday season, our hospitals are counting on Nebraskans to be smart in their social interactions to help slow the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp; We all need to do our part to help them by wearing a mask, washing our hands often, and watching our distance.&nbsp; Nebraskans are hard-working folks, and we don’t like to be on the sidelines.&nbsp; It’s critically important, however, for everyone to stay home when sick to slow the spread of the coronavirus.Our Local Health Departments tell us the virus is spreading at informal gatherings, usually in people’s homes.&nbsp; As you think about celebrating the holidays, please keep gatherings small and avoid the “Three Cs”, even in private settings.&nbsp; Avoid&nbsp;crowded places&nbsp;where you can’t practice social distancing.&nbsp; Avoid&nbsp;close contacts&nbsp;where you’re within six feet of someone for 15 minutes or more.&nbsp; And avoid&nbsp;confined spaces&nbsp;with poor ventilation.&nbsp; Using these tools is the best way to support our healthcare workers and protect our hospitals.If you have questions about Nebraska’s coronavirus response, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; I am grateful to the Nebraskans who’ll be working this Thanksgiving weekend to help folks stay healthy in hospitals and nursing homes.&nbsp; I wish everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday.

Gov. Ricketts: Giving thanks in adversity

Two additional COVID-related deaths are being reported in the Panhandle. A Cheyenne County female in her 70s and a Kimball County female in her 90s have both recently passed away. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 49.

“We wish to express our sincerest condolences in the passing of two Panhandle residents.&nbsp;We send their friends and loved ones peace and comfort during their time of loss,” expressed Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

We understand people may be experiencing pandemic fatigue, but this is the year to be as safe as possible for your family, friends, loved ones, and our most vulnerable community members. It takes all of us to break the transmission cycle.

There will come a time when standard family get-togethers will be safe again but this isn’t the time, unfortunately. Zoom is lifting its 40-minute time limit for free meetings on Thanksgiving. What a perfect way for people to connect via distance. It’s important to remember that the act of staying apart is the act of love this year.

An activity we are encouraging people to do is to engage in a conversation with your friends and loved ones, safely via phone call, video chat, or social media, to share what each is grateful for and mindful of. People’s mental health is just as critical as their physical health, we need people to feed that innate desire for connecting (safely, of course). Please be safe this Thanksgiving holiday.

Unified Command confirms 393 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, November 19. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDTwo additional COVID-related deaths are being reported in the Panhandle. A Cheyenne County female in her 70s and a Kimball County female in her 90s have both recently passed away. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 49.“We wish to express our sincerest condolences in the passing of two Panhandle residents.&nbsp;We send their friends and loved ones peace and comfort during their time of loss,” expressed Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.We understand people may be experiencing pandemic fatigue, but this is the year to be as safe as possible for your family, friends, loved ones, and our most vulnerable community members. It takes all of us to break the transmission cycle.There will come a time when standard family get-togethers will be safe again but this isn’t the time, unfortunately. Zoom is lifting its 40-minute time limit for free meetings on Thanksgiving. What a perfect way for people to connect via distance. It’s important to remember that the act of staying apart is the act of love this year.An activity we are encouraging people to do is to engage in a conversation with your friends and loved ones, safely via phone call, video chat, or social media, to share what each is grateful for and mindful of. People’s mental health is just as critical as their physical health, we need people to feed that innate desire for connecting (safely, of course). Please be safe this Thanksgiving holiday.<ul>
 <li>Avoid the Three Cs:</li><li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Unified Command confirms 393 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, November 19. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606183719359.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Testing information and access for the Panhandle area:<ul>
 <li>You can sign up for the following free testing at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">Testnebraska.com</a>&nbsp;or 402-207-9377:</li><li>Box Butte General Hospital in&nbsp;Alliance: Monday-Friday, 9-10am</li><li>212 East 24th Street&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Chadron&nbsp;Community Hospital: Mondays &amp; Fridays, 7-9am</li><li>821 Morehead Street (Old Hospital ER Entrance next to Wilson Park)</li><li>Other testing opportunities for symptomatic patients may be available through the hospital as ordered by your Primary Care Practitioner, call the hospital at 747-2466 with questions.</li><li>Gordon&nbsp;Memorial Hospital: Tuesdays &amp; Thursdays, 2-4pm</li><li>Regional West Health Services in&nbsp;Scottsbluff: Monday &amp; Wednesday, Noon-3pm; Tuesdays &amp; Fridays, 1pm-4pm; Call 308-630-2100 for other testing opportunities for symptomatic patients.</li><li>Sidney&nbsp;Regional Medical Center: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, &amp; Thursdays, 7-9:30am</li><li>Community Action Health Center in&nbsp;Gering: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, &amp; Thursdays, 7-8am</li><li>Testing is free, sign up at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/yydxr5mc" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/yydxr5mc</a></li><li>Alliance Community Pharmacy in&nbsp;Alliance: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm</li><li>For people experiencing symptoms, same day results. Call 308-629-1045 for appointment, fee is $125.</li><li>Morrill County Community Hospital in&nbsp;Bridgeport: Daily</li><li>Call 308-262-1616 for testing, same day results, insurance can be billed.</li><li>Contact your local hospital or clinic for information on testing access.</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606183782001.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

PPHD: Safe opportunities to connect during the Thanksgiving holiday 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Health officials in Wyoming have reported an increase of 742 confirmed COVID-19 cases from Saturday to Sunday, ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. 

The Wyoming Eagle Tribune reported that there were 24,309 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of Sunday compared to the 23,567 cases reported Saturday. 

Health officials say Natrona County, which includes Casper, reported the highest number of newly reported cases at 115. 

Laramie County, which includes Cheyenne, reported 105 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, while Fremont County reported the next highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 95. Statewide, the number of active COVID-19 cases increased to 11,186 on Sunday, or by 482 cases.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Health officials in Wyoming have reported an increase of 742 confirmed COVID-19 cases from Saturday to Sunday, ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. The Wyoming Eagle Tribune reported that there were 24,309 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of Sunday compared to the 23,567 cases reported Saturday. Health officials say Natrona County, which includes Casper, reported the highest number of newly reported cases at 115. Laramie County, which includes Cheyenne, reported 105 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, while Fremont County reported the next highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 95. Statewide, the number of active COVID-19 cases increased to 11,186 on Sunday, or by 482 cases.

Wyoming reports increase in newly confirmed COVID-19 cases

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska reported one of the lowest numbers of new virus cases this month on Sunday, but the number of people hospitalized with the virus remains high and continues to strain hospital capacity in the state.

 The state reported 1,032 new virus cases Sunday. 

That was less than half of the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in the state, which was 2,313.57. 

State data shows that 976 people were being treated for COVID-19 in the state’s hospitals, occupying 23% of the state’s hospital beds.

 The threshold of 25% that will trigger more social distancing restrictions from the state.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska reported one of the lowest numbers of new virus cases this month on Sunday, but the number of people hospitalized with the virus remains high and continues to strain hospital capacity in the state. The state reported 1,032 new virus cases Sunday. That was less than half of the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in the state, which was 2,313.57. State data shows that 976 people were being treated for COVID-19 in the state’s hospitals, occupying 23% of the state’s hospital beds. The threshold of 25% that will trigger more social distancing restrictions from the state.

Ricketts warns imminent restrictions amid hospitalizations

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska reported one of the smallest numbers of new virus cases this month on Sunday, but the number of people hospitalized with the virus remained high and continues to strain hospital capacity in the state. 

The state reported 1,032 new virus cases Sunday. 

That was less than half of the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in the state which was 2,313.57.

 Nebraska said 976 people were being treated for COVID-19 in the state’s hospitals, so 23% of the state’s hospital beds are occupied by COVID-19 patients, which is approaching the threshold of 25% that will trigger more social distancing restrictions from the state.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska reported one of the smallest numbers of new virus cases this month on Sunday, but the number of people hospitalized with the virus remained high and continues to strain hospital capacity in the state. The state reported 1,032 new virus cases Sunday. That was less than half of the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in the state which was 2,313.57. Nebraska said 976 people were being treated for COVID-19 in the state’s hospitals, so 23% of the state’s hospital beds are occupied by COVID-19 patients, which is approaching the threshold of 25% that will trigger more social distancing restrictions from the state.

Nebraska hospital capacity strained by coronavirus cases

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 42 deaths due to the coronavirus in the last day, lifting the state’s death toll to 819 since the start of the pandemic.

 There have been 404 virus fatalities in the state in the month of November. 

The COVID Tracking Project reports that South Dakota ranks No. 2 behind North Dakota for the number of virus cases per capita in the last two weeks. 

One in every 110 people in South Dakota tested positive in the past week. 

The state processed 851 positive tests since Saturday, lifting the total case count to 73.065. Hospitalizations fell by three in the last day, to 577.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 42 deaths due to the coronavirus in the last day, lifting the state’s death toll to 819 since the start of the pandemic. There have been 404 virus fatalities in the state in the month of November. The COVID Tracking Project reports that South Dakota ranks No. 2 behind North Dakota for the number of virus cases per capita in the last two weeks. One in every 110 people in South Dakota tested positive in the past week. The state processed 851 positive tests since Saturday, lifting the total case count to 73.065. Hospitalizations fell by three in the last day, to 577.

South Dakota reports 42 deaths due to COVID-19 in last day

LONDON (AP) — Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca said Monday that late-stage trials showed its coronavirus vaccine was up to 90% effective, giving public health officials hope they may soon have access to a vaccine that is cheaper and easier to distribute than some of its rivals.

The results are based on interim analysis of trials in the U.K. and Brazil of a vaccine developed by Oxford University and manufactured by AstraZeneca. No hospitalizations or severe cases of COVID-19 were reported in those receiving the vaccine.

AstraZeneca is the third major drug company to report late-stage results for a potential COVID-19 vaccine as the world anxiously waits for scientific breakthroughs that will bring an end to a pandemic that has wrought economic devastation and resulted in nearly 1.4 million confirmed deaths.

Pfizer and Moderna last week reported preliminary results from late-stage trials showing their vaccines were almost 95% effective. But, unlike its rivals, the AstraZeneca vaccine doesn’t have to be stored at ultra-cold temperatures, making it easier to distribute, especially in developing countries.

“I think these are really exciting results,” Dr. Andrew Pollard, chief investigator for the trial, said during a news conference. “Because the vaccine can be stored at fridge temperatures, it can be distributed around the world using the normal immunization distribution system. And so our goal … to make sure that we have a vaccine that was accessible everywhere, I think we’ve actually managed to do that.”

The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is also cheaper. AstraZeneca, which has pledged it won’t make a profit on the vaccine during the pandemic, has reached agreements with governments and international health organizations that put its cost at about $2.50 a dose. Pfizer’s vaccine costs about $20 a dose, while Moderna’s is $15 to $25, based on agreements the companies have struck to supply their vaccines to the U.S. government.

All three vaccines must be approved by regulators before they can be widely distributed.

Oxford researchers and AstraZeneca stressed that they aren’t competing with other projects, and that multiple vaccines will be needed to reach enough of the world’s population and end the pandemic.

“We’re not thinking about vaccinations working in terms of one person at a time. We have to think about vaccinating communities, populations, reducing transmission within those populations, so that we really get on top of this pandemic,″ said Sarah Gilbert, a leader of the Oxford research team. “And that’s what it now looks like we’re going to have the ability to contribute to in a really big way.″

The results come as a second wave of COVID-19 hits many countries, once again shutting businesses, restricting social interaction and pummeling the world economy.

AstraZeneca said it will immediately apply for early approval of the vaccine where possible, and it will seek an emergency use listing from the World Health Organization, so it can make the vaccine available in low-income countries.

The AstraZeneca trial looked at two different dosing regimens. A half-dose of the vaccine followed by a full dose at least one month later was 90% effective. Another approach, giving patients two full doses one month apart, was 62% effective. The combined results showed an average efficacy rate of 70%.

The vaccine uses a weakened version of a common cold virus that is combined with genetic material for the characteristic spike protein of the virus that causes COVID-19. After vaccination, the spike protein primes the immune system to attack the virus if it later infects the body.

The vaccine can be transported under “normal refrigerated conditions” of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), AstraZeneca said. By comparison, Pfizer plans to distribute its vaccine using specially designed “thermal shippers” that use dry ice to maintain temperatures of minus-70 degrees Celsius (minus-94 degrees Fahrenheit).

Peter Openshaw, professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, said the finding that a smaller initial dose is more effective than a larger one is good news because it may reduce costs and mean more people can be vaccinated.

“The report that an initial half-dose is better than a full dose seems counterintuitive for those of us thinking of vaccines as normal drugs: With drugs, we expect that higher doses have bigger effects, and more side-effects,” he said. “But the immune system does not work like that.”

The results reported Monday come from trials in the U.K. and Brazil that involved 23,000 people. Late-stage trials are also underway in the U.S., Japan, Russia, South Africa, Kenya and Latin America, with further trials planned for other European and Asian countries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="Photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca said Monday that late-stage trials showed its coronavirus vaccine was up to 90% effective, giving public health officials hope they may soon have access to a vaccine that is cheaper and easier to distribute than some of its rivals.The results are based on interim analysis of trials in the U.K. and Brazil of a vaccine developed by Oxford University and manufactured by AstraZeneca. No hospitalizations or severe cases of COVID-19 were reported in those receiving the vaccine.AstraZeneca is the third major drug company to report late-stage results for a potential COVID-19 vaccine as the world anxiously waits for scientific breakthroughs that will bring an end to a pandemic that has wrought economic devastation and resulted in nearly 1.4 million confirmed deaths.Pfizer and Moderna last week reported preliminary results from late-stage trials showing their vaccines were almost 95% effective. But, unlike its rivals, the AstraZeneca vaccine doesn’t have to be stored at ultra-cold temperatures, making it easier to distribute, especially in developing countries.“I think these are really exciting results,” Dr. Andrew Pollard, chief investigator for the trial, said during a news conference. “Because the vaccine can be stored at fridge temperatures, it can be distributed around the world using the normal immunization distribution system. And so our goal … to make sure that we have a vaccine that was accessible everywhere, I think we’ve actually managed to do that.”The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is also cheaper. AstraZeneca, which has pledged it won’t make a profit on the vaccine during the pandemic, has reached agreements with governments and international health organizations that put its cost at about $2.50 a dose. Pfizer’s vaccine costs about $20 a dose, while Moderna’s is $15 to $25, based on agreements the companies have struck to supply their vaccines to the U.S. government.All three vaccines must be approved by regulators before they can be widely distributed.Oxford researchers and AstraZeneca stressed that they aren’t competing with other projects, and that multiple vaccines will be needed to reach enough of the world’s population and end the pandemic.“We’re not thinking about vaccinations working in terms of one person at a time. We have to think about vaccinating communities, populations, reducing transmission within those populations, so that we really get on top of this pandemic,″ said Sarah Gilbert, a leader of the Oxford research team. “And that’s what it now looks like we’re going to have the ability to contribute to in a really big way.″The results come as a second wave of COVID-19 hits many countries, once again shutting businesses, restricting social interaction and pummeling the world economy.AstraZeneca said it will immediately apply for early approval of the vaccine where possible, and it will seek an emergency use listing from the World Health Organization, so it can make the vaccine available in low-income countries.The AstraZeneca trial looked at two different dosing regimens. A half-dose of the vaccine followed by a full dose at least one month later was 90% effective. Another approach, giving patients two full doses one month apart, was 62% effective. The combined results showed an average efficacy rate of 70%.The vaccine uses a weakened version of a common cold virus that is combined with genetic material for the characteristic spike protein of the virus that causes COVID-19. After vaccination, the spike protein primes the immune system to attack the virus if it later infects the body.The vaccine can be transported under “normal refrigerated conditions” of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), AstraZeneca said. By comparison, Pfizer plans to distribute its vaccine using specially designed “thermal shippers” that use dry ice to maintain temperatures of minus-70 degrees Celsius (minus-94 degrees Fahrenheit).Peter Openshaw, professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, said the finding that a smaller initial dose is more effective than a larger one is good news because it may reduce costs and mean more people can be vaccinated.“The report that an initial half-dose is better than a full dose seems counterintuitive for those of us thinking of vaccines as normal drugs: With drugs, we expect that higher doses have bigger effects, and more side-effects,” he said. “But the immune system does not work like that.”The results reported Monday come from trials in the U.K. and Brazil that involved 23,000 people. Late-stage trials are also underway in the U.S., Japan, Russia, South Africa, Kenya and Latin America, with further trials planned for other European and Asian countries.AstraZeneca has been ramping up manufacturing capacity, so it can supply hundreds of millions of doses of the vaccine starting in January, Chief Executive Pascal Soriot said earlier this month.Soriot said Monday that the Oxford vaccine’s simpler supply chain and AstraZeneca’s commitment to provide it on a nonprofit basis during the pandemic mean it will be affordable and available to people around the world.“This vaccine’s efficacy and safety confirm that it will be highly effective against COVID-19 and will have an immediate impact on this public health emergency,” Soriot said.British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he felt “a great sense of relief” at the news from AstraZeneca.Britain has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford vaccine, and the government says several million doses can be produced before the end of the year if it is approved by regulators.Just months ago, “the idea that by November we would have three vaccines, all of which have got high effectiveness … I would have given my eye teeth for,” Hancock said.___

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