CHADRON – More than 190 students from 25 high schools will participate in the Best of the West Business invitational Jan. 26-28, co-hosted by Chadron State College and the Nebraska Council on Economic Education.

Due to coronavirus concerns, the event has been moved to a virtual platform which makes it possible for schools from around the state to participate. This year, students from schools in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Kearney are participating, according to Associate Professor of Business Dr. Gary Dusek who also works with the Nebraska Business Development Center that is coordinating logistics for the event.

The competition includes written tests in nine subjects: Accounting, Business Calculations, Business Communications, Economics, Introduction to Business, Introduction to FBLA, Introduction to Financial Math, Marketing, and Personal Finance.

The job interview contest for seniors will be judged by CSC business faculty members Dr. Richard Koza, Chris McCarthy, and Terrie Wood.

CSC students from the local student business organization, Phi Beta Lambda of Chadron, will assist with the event and provide logistical support. Phi Beta Lambda is the collegiate, postsecondary division of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). The competition is sponsored by First National Bank of Omaha in Chadron.

Dusek said the competition will follow FBLA rules, so the experience will serve to prepare students for the virtual FBLA State Leadership Conference in April.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – More than 190 students from 25 high schools will participate in the Best of the West Business invitational Jan. 26-28, co-hosted by Chadron State College and the Nebraska Council on Economic Education.Due to coronavirus concerns, the event has been moved to a virtual platform which makes it possible for schools from around the state to participate. This year, students from schools in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Kearney are participating, according to Associate Professor of Business Dr. Gary Dusek who also works with the Nebraska Business Development Center that is coordinating logistics for the event.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611531886371.jpeg" alt="The top three contestants in the Best of the West Job Interview contest at Chadron State College's Student Center Ballroom Jan. 29, 2020, pose with Dr. Wendy Waugh, interim dean of Business, Mathematics, and Science and Graduate Studies, left, and Assistant Professor Dr. Gary Dusek, right. From left, 1, Rebecca Hanson, Hemingford, 2, Rebekkah Draucker, Arthur County, 3, Adrianna Dieter, Ogallala. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>The top three contestants in the Best of the West Job Interview contest at Chadron State College's Student Center Ballroom Jan. 29, 2020, pose with Dr. Wendy Waugh, interim dean of Business, Mathematics, and Science and Graduate Studies, left, and Assistant Professor Dr. Gary Dusek, right. From left, 1, Rebecca Hanson, Hemingford, 2, Rebekkah Draucker, Arthur County, 3, Adrianna Dieter, Ogallala. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>The competition includes written tests in nine subjects: Accounting, Business Calculations, Business Communications, Economics, Introduction to Business, Introduction to FBLA, Introduction to Financial Math, Marketing, and Personal Finance.The job interview contest for seniors will be judged by CSC business faculty members Dr. Richard Koza, Chris McCarthy, and Terrie Wood.CSC students from the local student business organization, Phi Beta Lambda of Chadron, will assist with the event and provide logistical support. Phi Beta Lambda is the collegiate, postsecondary division of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). The competition is sponsored by First National Bank of Omaha in Chadron.Dusek said the competition will follow FBLA rules, so the experience will serve to prepare students for the virtual FBLA State Leadership Conference in April.

CSC to host virtual 'Best of the West' competition

WASHINGTON (AP) —Public health experts blamed COVID-19 vaccine shortages around the U.S. in part on the Trump administration’s push to get states to vastly expand their vaccination drives to reach the nation’s estimated 54 million people age 65 and over.

The push that began over a week ago has not been accompanied by enough doses to meet demand, according to state and local officials, leading to frustration and confusion and limiting states’ ability to attack the outbreak that has killed over 400,000 Americans.

Over the past few days, authorities in California, Ohio, West Virginia, Florida and Hawaii warned that their supplies were running out. New York City began canceling or postponing shots or stopped making new appointments because of the shortages, which President Joe Biden has vowed to turn around. Florida’s top health official said the state would deal with the scarcity by restricting vaccines to state residents.

The vaccine rollout so far has been “a major disappointment,” said Dr. Eric Topol, head of the Scripps Research Translational Institute.

Problems started with the Trump administration’s “fatal mistake” of not ordering enough vaccine, which was then snapped up by other countries, Topol said. Then, opening the line to senior citizens set people up for disappointment because there wasn’t enough vaccine, he said. The Trump administration also left crucial planning to the states and didn’t provide the necessary funding.

“It doesn’t happen by fairy dust,” Topol said. “You need to put funds into that.”

Last week, before Biden took over as president, the U.S. Health and Human Services Department suggested that the frustration was the result of unrealistic expectations among the states as to how much vaccine was on the way.

But some public health experts said that the states have not been getting reliable information on vaccine deliveries and that the amounts they have been sent have been unpredictable. That, in turn, has made it difficult for them to plan how to inoculate people.

“It’s a bit of having to build it as we go,” said Dr. George Rutherford, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Francisco. “It’s a front-end supply issue, and unless we know how much vaccine is flowing down the pipe, it’s hard to get these things sized right, staffed, get people there, get them vaccinated and get them gone.”

State health secretaries have asked the Biden administration for earlier and more reliable predictions on vaccine deliveries, said Washington state Health Secretary Dr. Umair Shah.

Dr. Marcus Plescia of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials was also among those who said opening vaccinations to senior citizens was done too soon, before supply could catch up.

“We needed steady federal leadership on this early in the launch,” Plescia said. “That did not happen, and now that we are not prioritizing groups, there is going to be some lag for supply to catch up with demand.”

Supply will pick up over the next few weeks, he said. Deliveries go out to the states every week, and the government and drugmakers have given assurances large quantities are in the pipeline.

The rollout has proceeded at a disappointing pace. The U.S. government has delivered nearly 38 million doses of vaccine to the states, and about 17.5 million of those have been administered, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

About 2.4 million people have received the necessary two doses, by the CDC’s count — well short of the hundreds of millions who will have to be inoculated to vanquish the outbreak.

Biden, in one of his first orders of business, signed 10 executive orders to combat the coronavirus pandemic on Thursday, including one broadening the use of the Defense Production Act to expand vaccine production. The 1950 Korean War-era law enables the government to direct the manufacture of critical goods.

He also mandated masks for travel, including in airports and on planes, ships, trains, buses and public transportation, and ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to set up vaccination centers and the CDC to make vaccines available through pharmacies starting next month.

Biden has vowed to dispense 100 million shots in his first 100 days.

“We’ll move heaven and earth to get more people vaccinated for free,” he said.

Florida was one of the first states to open vaccine eligibility to members of the general public over 65. Now uncertainty over the vaccine supply has prompted the state surgeon general, Scott Rivkees, to advise counties to prioritize available doses for state residents, including so-called snowbirds who live there part-time. People seeking vaccination will have to provide a driver’s license or other document, such as rental leases and utility bills.

In New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Andrew Cuomo have been pleading for more doses. Appointments through Sunday for the first dose of the vaccine at 15 community vaccination hubs set up by the city health department were postponed to next week.

Vaccinations in New York haven’t stopped, but demand for the shots now far exceeds the number of doses available, the mayor said.

“It’s just tremendously sad that we have so many people who want the vaccine and so much ability to give the vaccine, what’s happening?” de Blasio said. “For lack of supply, we’re actually having to cancel appointments.”

Rosa Schneider had jumped at the chance to make a vaccination appointment once she heard that educators like her were eligible in New York. A high school English teacher who lives in New York City but works in New Jersey, she said that a day before she was to be vaccinated on Wednesday at a city-run hospital, she got a call saying the supply had run out and the appointment was canceled.

“I was concerned, and I was upset,” said Schneider, 32, but she is trying daily to book another appointment. She is hopeful availability will improve in the coming weeks.

WASHINGTON (AP) —Public health experts blamed COVID-19 vaccine shortages around the U.S. in part on the Trump administration’s push to get states to vastly expand their vaccination drives to reach the nation’s estimated 54 million people age 65 and over.The push that began over a week ago has not been accompanied by enough doses to meet demand, according to state and local officials, leading to frustration and confusion and limiting states’ ability to attack the outbreak that has killed over 400,000 Americans.Over the past few days, authorities in California, Ohio, West Virginia, Florida and Hawaii warned that their supplies were running out. New York City began canceling or postponing shots or stopped making new appointments because of the shortages, which President Joe Biden has vowed to turn around. Florida’s top health official said the state would deal with the scarcity by restricting vaccines to state residents.The vaccine rollout so far has been “a major disappointment,” said Dr. Eric Topol, head of the Scripps Research Translational Institute.Problems started with the Trump administration’s “fatal mistake” of not ordering enough vaccine, which was then snapped up by other countries, Topol said. Then, opening the line to senior citizens set people up for disappointment because there wasn’t enough vaccine, he said. The Trump administration also left crucial planning to the states and didn’t provide the necessary funding.“It doesn’t happen by fairy dust,” Topol said. “You need to put funds into that.”Last week, before Biden took over as president, the U.S. Health and Human Services Department suggested that the frustration was the result of unrealistic expectations among the states as to how much vaccine was on the way.But some public health experts said that the states have not been getting reliable information on vaccine deliveries and that the amounts they have been sent have been unpredictable. That, in turn, has made it difficult for them to plan how to inoculate people.“It’s a bit of having to build it as we go,” said Dr. George Rutherford, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Francisco. “It’s a front-end supply issue, and unless we know how much vaccine is flowing down the pipe, it’s hard to get these things sized right, staffed, get people there, get them vaccinated and get them gone.”State health secretaries have asked the Biden administration for earlier and more reliable predictions on vaccine deliveries, said Washington state Health Secretary Dr. Umair Shah.Dr. Marcus Plescia of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials was also among those who said opening vaccinations to senior citizens was done too soon, before supply could catch up.“We needed steady federal leadership on this early in the launch,” Plescia said. “That did not happen, and now that we are not prioritizing groups, there is going to be some lag for supply to catch up with demand.”Supply will pick up over the next few weeks, he said. Deliveries go out to the states every week, and the government and drugmakers have given assurances large quantities are in the pipeline.The rollout has proceeded at a disappointing pace. The U.S. government has delivered nearly 38 million doses of vaccine to the states, and about 17.5 million of those have been administered, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About 2.4 million people have received the necessary two doses, by the CDC’s count — well short of the hundreds of millions who will have to be inoculated to vanquish the outbreak.Biden, in one of his first orders of business, signed 10 executive orders to combat the coronavirus pandemic on Thursday, including one broadening the use of the Defense Production Act to expand vaccine production. The 1950 Korean War-era law enables the government to direct the manufacture of critical goods.He also mandated masks for travel, including in airports and on planes, ships, trains, buses and public transportation, and ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to set up vaccination centers and the CDC to make vaccines available through pharmacies starting next month.Biden has vowed to dispense 100 million shots in his first 100 days.“We’ll move heaven and earth to get more people vaccinated for free,” he said.Florida was one of the first states to open vaccine eligibility to members of the general public over 65. Now uncertainty over the vaccine supply has prompted the state surgeon general, Scott Rivkees, to advise counties to prioritize available doses for state residents, including so-called snowbirds who live there part-time. People seeking vaccination will have to provide a driver’s license or other document, such as rental leases and utility bills.In New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Andrew Cuomo have been pleading for more doses. Appointments through Sunday for the first dose of the vaccine at 15 community vaccination hubs set up by the city health department were postponed to next week.Vaccinations in New York haven’t stopped, but demand for the shots now far exceeds the number of doses available, the mayor said.“It’s just tremendously sad that we have so many people who want the vaccine and so much ability to give the vaccine, what’s happening?” de Blasio said. “For lack of supply, we’re actually having to cancel appointments.”Rosa Schneider had jumped at the chance to make a vaccination appointment once she heard that educators like her were eligible in New York. A high school English teacher who lives in New York City but works in New Jersey, she said that a day before she was to be vaccinated on Wednesday at a city-run hospital, she got a call saying the supply had run out and the appointment was canceled.“I was concerned, and I was upset,” said Schneider, 32, but she is trying daily to book another appointment. She is hopeful availability will improve in the coming weeks.

Health experts blame rapid expansion for vaccine shortages

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska residents who are younger than 65 years old and considered healthy may have to wait another four months to get the coronavirus vaccine based on current distributions. 

State health officials and Gov. Pete Ricketts say they’re receiving 94,000 vaccinations a month from the federal government.

 Nebraska has been vaccinating front-line health care workers and people with ties to long-term care facilities. 

Under the state’s distribution plan, the next in line are an estimated 500,000 residents who are at least 65 years old or have certain health conditions. 

State officials predict that 75% of that group will get a vaccine. 

That translates into a four-month wait for everyone else unless Nebraska starts receiving more shipments.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska residents who are younger than 65 years old and considered healthy may have to wait another four months to get the coronavirus vaccine based on current distributions. State health officials and Gov. Pete Ricketts say they’re receiving 94,000 vaccinations a month from the federal government. Nebraska has been vaccinating front-line health care workers and people with ties to long-term care facilities. Under the state’s distribution plan, the next in line are an estimated 500,000 residents who are at least 65 years old or have certain health conditions. State officials predict that 75% of that group will get a vaccine. That translates into a four-month wait for everyone else unless Nebraska starts receiving more shipments.

Some Nebraskans may face 4-month wait for vaccine

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have rejected an new effort to require a public vote when they choose legislative leaders, despite a push from some conservative senators for transparency. 

Lawmakers voted 30-19 against the motion to change the Legislature’s internal rules. 

Committee chairs and the speaker of the Legislature are elected through a secret ballot. 

Supporters of the 50-year-old system say it minimizes the influence of partisanship in the officially nonpartisan Legislature, allowing lawmakers to elect the person they consider most-qualified for the job without pressure to vote for a member of their own party.

 Critics counter that the system encourages backroom deals and vote-trading from senators who are trying to win a chairmanship.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have rejected an new effort to require a public vote when they choose legislative leaders, despite a push from some conservative senators for transparency. Lawmakers voted 30-19 against the motion to change the Legislature’s internal rules. Committee chairs and the speaker of the Legislature are elected through a secret ballot. Supporters of the 50-year-old system say it minimizes the influence of partisanship in the officially nonpartisan Legislature, allowing lawmakers to elect the person they consider most-qualified for the job without pressure to vote for a member of their own party. Critics counter that the system encourages backroom deals and vote-trading from senators who are trying to win a chairmanship.

Nebraska lawmakers preserve secret committee chair votes

As COVID vaccines continue to roll-out among Panhandle communities, anyone can view the Nebraska Panhandle COVID Dashboard and see how many people have received a vaccine. As of today, 4,559 Panhandle residents have received the COVID vaccine. This will be updated weekdays at 4:30 pm MT and available at <a href="http://www.pphd.org">www.pphd.org</a> in alignment with the regular data update.

Health care personnel, long-term care, and those 75 and older are currently being vaccinated.

Any Nebraska Panhandle residents 65 and older or persons with medical conditions and interested in getting a COVID vaccine, please complete the form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d</a>. The online link completion is preferred, people can call 308-262-5764 or 308-633-2866 ext. 101.

5,612 people have signed up so far! Be sure to help your elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up. This will put them on the list that is being coordinated with local vaccine providers. When vaccines are available, appointments will be scheduled, and individuals will be called days ahead.

If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.

COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.

Fourteen more deaths are being announced bringing the total Panhandle deaths to 173. All are from Scotts Bluff County, eight males: one in his 40s, one in his 50s, one in his 60s, three in their 80s, &amp; two in their 90s; and six females: three in their 80s &amp; three in their 90s.

“We extend our sincerest condolences with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Paulette Schnell, Scotts Bluff County Health Department Director.

Unified Command confirms 91 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, January 18.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

By PPHDAs COVID vaccines continue to roll-out among Panhandle communities, anyone can view the Nebraska Panhandle COVID Dashboard and see how many people have received a vaccine. As of today, 4,559 Panhandle residents have received the COVID vaccine. This will be updated weekdays at 4:30 pm MT and available at <a href="http://www.pphd.org">www.pphd.org</a> in alignment with the regular data update.Health care personnel, long-term care, and those 75 and older are currently being vaccinated.Any Nebraska Panhandle residents 65 and older or persons with medical conditions and interested in getting a COVID vaccine, please complete the form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d</a>. The online link completion is preferred, people can call 308-262-5764 or 308-633-2866 ext. 101.5,612 people have signed up so far! Be sure to help your elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up. This will put them on the list that is being coordinated with local vaccine providers. When vaccines are available, appointments will be scheduled, and individuals will be called days ahead.If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.Fourteen more deaths are being announced bringing the total Panhandle deaths to 173. All are from Scotts Bluff County, eight males: one in his 40s, one in his 50s, one in his 60s, three in their 80s, &amp; two in their 90s; and six females: three in their 80s &amp; three in their 90s.“We extend our sincerest condolences with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Paulette Schnell, Scotts Bluff County Health Department Director.Unified Command confirms 91 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, January 18.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611273107675.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611273197048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-January 21, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 32,122</li><li>Positive: 8,206</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 300</li><li>Last week’s cases: 150</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 27.5%</li><li>Deaths: 173</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 13</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 510</li><li>Doubling time (November 11, 2020-January 21, 2021): 71 days</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <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>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: 91 more virus cases reported in the Panhandle, 14 deaths

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s chief Supreme Court justice says the courts faced a big challenge due to the coronavirus pandemic but continue to serve the public with the use of technology. 

Justice Michael Heavican says the pandemic has forced courts to turn to livestreaming and video chatting services to keep proceedings accessible.

 Heavican says the court’s online payment systems allowed residents to pay traffic tickets and court fines without leaving their homes, and the judiciary also offers an online education system to help judges, lawyers, guardians and others meet continuous education requirements. 

In Dawson County, one judge is broadcasting court proceedings on YouTube.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s chief Supreme Court justice says the courts faced a big challenge due to the coronavirus pandemic but continue to serve the public with the use of technology. Justice Michael Heavican says the pandemic has forced courts to turn to livestreaming and video chatting services to keep proceedings accessible. Heavican says the court’s online payment systems allowed residents to pay traffic tickets and court fines without leaving their homes, and the judiciary also offers an online education system to help judges, lawyers, guardians and others meet continuous education requirements. In Dawson County, one judge is broadcasting court proceedings on YouTube.

Justice: Technology helped Nebraska courts face pandemic

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Local health officials across Nebraska could gain more authority to impose restrictions related to the coronavirus under a bill in the legislature. 

The bill would allow local public health departments across the state to impose restrictions related to the virus or other infectious diseases, without seeking state approval.

 Under the current rules, Gov. Pete Ricketts’ administration prevented local health officials from requiring people to wear masks when COVID-19 started spreading widely across the state last year. 

Later, many cities across the state took action to require masks once it became clear they had the legal authority to do so.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Local health officials across Nebraska could gain more authority to impose restrictions related to the coronavirus under a bill in the legislature. The bill would allow local public health departments across the state to impose restrictions related to the virus or other infectious diseases, without seeking state approval. Under the current rules, Gov. Pete Ricketts’ administration prevented local health officials from requiring people to wear masks when COVID-19 started spreading widely across the state last year. Later, many cities across the state took action to require masks once it became clear they had the legal authority to do so.

Proposal would give Nebraska health officials more power

By Alex Helmbrecht, Director of CSC College Relations

CHADRON – After being closed to the public since Nov. 18, 2020, Chadron State College will reopen select facilities to the community beginning Monday, Jan. 25. The buildings reopening to the public are the Nelson Physical Activity Center, the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, Crites Hall, King Library, Memorial Hall, and the Chicoine Center.

Anyone attending an event or using a CSC facility must follow the college’s Face Covering Policy, wear a mask, and maintain social distance.

“The President’s Cabinet decided to lift the restriction on campus in the interest of the community members who use our facilities and enrich their lives with the cultural events and athletic contests CSC provides,” said President Randy Rhine. “Allowing the public to attend events in a safe and responsible manner is also important to our students because they get the opportunity to showcase their unique talents. This decision was made with the understanding that if the number of positive cases in the region increases, CSC reserves the right to restrict access to campus in the future.”

The Nelson Physical Activity Center weight room, cardio room, and arena will open to the public Monday, Jan. 25, at 6 a.m. Masks must be worn at all times and all individuals should plan to clean equipment after use. The facility’s usage rate will be monitored and it will not exceed 75 percent of its stated occupancy.

The NPAC’s hours are: Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m. The weight room and cardio room will be closed daily for 30-minute cleaning sessions at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Masks and social distancing are required at all campus events. For athletic events, public attendance is subject to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s winter sport plans, which are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chadroneagles.com/Winter2021" target="_blank">www.chadroneagles.com/Winter2021</a>. The Athletic Department will announce when fans are allowed at its website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chadroneagles.com/" target="_blank">www.chadroneagles.com</a>. Additionally, the public is invited to attend other campus events, including musical and theatrical performances, while following campus and public health guidelines. For an up-to-date listing of campus events, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/" target="_blank">www.csc.edu</a>.

Chadron State College will continue to follow guidance from the Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) and Nebraska Directed Health Measures, and may identify buildings or spaces to close at a later time.

By Alex Helmbrecht, Director of CSC College RelationsCHADRON – After being closed to the public since Nov. 18, 2020, Chadron State College will reopen select facilities to the community beginning Monday, Jan. 25. The buildings reopening to the public are the Nelson Physical Activity Center, the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, Crites Hall, King Library, Memorial Hall, and the Chicoine Center.Anyone attending an event or using a CSC facility must follow the college’s Face Covering Policy, wear a mask, and maintain social distance.“The President’s Cabinet decided to lift the restriction on campus in the interest of the community members who use our facilities and enrich their lives with the cultural events and athletic contests CSC provides,” said President Randy Rhine. “Allowing the public to attend events in a safe and responsible manner is also important to our students because they get the opportunity to showcase their unique talents. This decision was made with the understanding that if the number of positive cases in the region increases, CSC reserves the right to restrict access to campus in the future.”The Nelson Physical Activity Center weight room, cardio room, and arena will open to the public Monday, Jan. 25, at 6 a.m. Masks must be worn at all times and all individuals should plan to clean equipment after use. The facility’s usage rate will be monitored and it will not exceed 75 percent of its stated occupancy.The NPAC’s hours are: Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m. The weight room and cardio room will be closed daily for 30-minute cleaning sessions at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.Masks and social distancing are required at all campus events. For athletic events, public attendance is subject to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s winter sport plans, which are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chadroneagles.com/Winter2021" target="_blank">www.chadroneagles.com/Winter2021</a>. The Athletic Department will announce when fans are allowed at its website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chadroneagles.com/" target="_blank">www.chadroneagles.com</a>. Additionally, the public is invited to attend other campus events, including musical and theatrical performances, while following campus and public health guidelines. For an up-to-date listing of campus events, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/" target="_blank">www.csc.edu</a>.Chadron State College will continue to follow guidance from the Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) and Nebraska Directed Health Measures, and may identify buildings or spaces to close at a later time.

CSC facilities reopening to the public Monday

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s campaign to vaccinate people for the coronavirus is further along in some rural parts of the state. 

At least half a dozen health districts across the state have already started giving vaccines to seniors living outside long-term care facilities, the Lincoln Journal Star reported. 

Officials in Lincoln and Omaha are still working to vaccinate health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities. 

State health officials have said they expected the campaign to progress at different rates throughout parts of Nebraska. 

Overall, the state has administered 109,526 of the 192,078 doses of the vaccines it has received so far.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s campaign to vaccinate people for the coronavirus is further along in some rural parts of the state. At least half a dozen health districts across the state have already started giving vaccines to seniors living outside long-term care facilities, the Lincoln Journal Star reported. Officials in Lincoln and Omaha are still working to vaccinate health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities. State health officials have said they expected the campaign to progress at different rates throughout parts of Nebraska. Overall, the state has administered 109,526 of the 192,078 doses of the vaccines it has received so far.

Nebraska vaccine campaign moving faster in some rural areas

SCOTTSBLUFF ― West Nebraska Blood Center encourages those who are healthy to continue donating blood to help keep the region’s blood supply full.

West Nebraska Blood Center moved their operations to 313 West 38th Street in Scottsbluff, just west of Regional West’s main campus, on Tuesday, Jan. 5.&nbsp;

Blood drawn at the West Nebraska Blood Center stays in the region, with blood supplies going to Regional West Medical Center and other hospitals throughout the Nebraska panhandle. New and returning donors are encouraged to donate blood and check out the new facility. Donors will receive a cookie and juice once their donation is complete.

“In order to save lives, we must have blood on the shelf and ready for transfusion. Blood donation is a free gift that only takes a little bit of your time, but it is a critical resource for patients in need,” said Katie Gasseling, MLS (ASCP), clinical laboratory supervisor.

The blood center moved to its new location to increase accessibility for donors. Walk-ins to donate blood are accepted, but appointments are preferred. West Nebraska Blood Center is open Monday through Wednesday, as well as Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For the current week’s blood drive schedule or to make an appointment, call 308-630-2477.

Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and the only Level II Trauma Center in Nebraska west of Kearney. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 in-network providers and approximately 2,000 staff members, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.&nbsp;

SCOTTSBLUFF ― West Nebraska Blood Center encourages those who are healthy to continue donating blood to help keep the region’s blood supply full.West Nebraska Blood Center moved their operations to 313 West 38th Street in Scottsbluff, just west of Regional West’s main campus, on Tuesday, Jan. 5.&nbsp;Blood drawn at the West Nebraska Blood Center stays in the region, with blood supplies going to Regional West Medical Center and other hospitals throughout the Nebraska panhandle. New and returning donors are encouraged to donate blood and check out the new facility. Donors will receive a cookie and juice once their donation is complete.“In order to save lives, we must have blood on the shelf and ready for transfusion. Blood donation is a free gift that only takes a little bit of your time, but it is a critical resource for patients in need,” said Katie Gasseling, MLS (ASCP), clinical laboratory supervisor.The blood center moved to its new location to increase accessibility for donors. Walk-ins to donate blood are accepted, but appointments are preferred. West Nebraska Blood Center is open Monday through Wednesday, as well as Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For the current week’s blood drive schedule or to make an appointment, call 308-630-2477.Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and the only Level II Trauma Center in Nebraska west of Kearney. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 in-network providers and approximately 2,000 staff members, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.&nbsp;

West Nebraska Blood Center encourages donations after move to new location

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials say the state is launching the next phase of the coronavirus vaccinations.

 Phase 1D includes people 65 years and older, beginning with those who are 80 and older.

 1D also includes high-risk patients, including those on dialysis and post-transplant recipients. 

Avera Medical Group vice president Dr. David Basel says there are 250,000 individuals in 1D, and they're getting 11,000 doses a week.

 Basel says it's going to take some patience. South Dakota health officials on Monday confirmed 116 positive COVID-19 tests and 11 deaths due to the coronavirus in the last day, The brings the total number of cases to 94,652 and the cumulative fatalities to 1,667.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials say the state is launching the next phase of the coronavirus vaccinations. Phase 1D includes people 65 years and older, beginning with those who are 80 and older. 1D also includes high-risk patients, including those on dialysis and post-transplant recipients. Avera Medical Group vice president Dr. David Basel says there are 250,000 individuals in 1D, and they're getting 11,000 doses a week. Basel says it's going to take some patience. South Dakota health officials on Monday confirmed 116 positive COVID-19 tests and 11 deaths due to the coronavirus in the last day, The brings the total number of cases to 94,652 and the cumulative fatalities to 1,667.

South Dakota launches next phase of COVID-19 vaccinations

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska teachers and meatpacking workers worry it will take longer for essential workers like them to get the coronavirus vaccine now that the next group of people to be vaccinated has been expanded to include everyone 65 and older. 

The Douglas County Health Department in Nebraska’s largest city said Tuesday that people 65 and older will get the vaccine first ahead of essential workers. 

Tim Royers, who is president of the Millard Education Association, said teachers in his district were disappointed to hear that they now aren’t likely to get their shots until March at the earliest.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska teachers and meatpacking workers worry it will take longer for essential workers like them to get the coronavirus vaccine now that the next group of people to be vaccinated has been expanded to include everyone 65 and older. The Douglas County Health Department in Nebraska’s largest city said Tuesday that people 65 and older will get the vaccine first ahead of essential workers. Tim Royers, who is president of the Millard Education Association, said teachers in his district were disappointed to hear that they now aren’t likely to get their shots until March at the earliest.

Nebraska workers worry about new delay in getting vaccine

By Karisa Lemoncelli, Box Butte General Hospital Promotions Specialist

On December 22nd, 2020 Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) received 600 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. As of today, all 600 doses have been administered to BBGH healthcare workers, first responders, healthcare workers outside of BBGH, and the 75+ years of age population that opted to receive it. 

It has now been approved for BBGH to begin administering the vaccine to the 65+ years of age population. 

While there are currently no vaccines available in the community, there is a waitlist that may be joined. Call the BBGH hotline voicemail, 308.761.3097 or visit pphd.org to join the vaccine waitlist.

What is important to know about the Moderna vaccine is that you may still get the COVID-19 virus for about two weeks after receiving the vaccination. It is vital to continue to practice social distancing, hand washing, and wearing a mask in public to continue to ensure the wellness of the community.

 A second dose of the vaccine will need to be received 28 days after the first dose. Symptoms of COVID-19 may arise but will subside within 1-7 days. 

The Moderna vaccine does not alter DNA or DNA of a cell, and it is a synthetic vaccine meaning it doesn’t give you the virus. There were no shortcuts taken in the development of this vaccine, it was developed using the RNA (ribonucleic acid- a molecule that carries messages from DNA to proteins) technology that has been used for the past 10 years.

As more vaccines become available to administer, those on the waitlist will be called. The timeline (which remains fluid) for the general population to receive the vaccine is between May and July of 2021.

Box Butte General Hospital is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

By Karisa Lemoncelli, Box Butte General Hospital Promotions SpecialistOn December 22nd, 2020 Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) received 600 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. As of today, all 600 doses have been administered to BBGH healthcare workers, first responders, healthcare workers outside of BBGH, and the 75+ years of age population that opted to receive it. It has now been approved for BBGH to begin administering the vaccine to the 65+ years of age population. While there are currently no vaccines available in the community, there is a waitlist that may be joined. Call the BBGH hotline voicemail, 308.761.3097 or visit pphd.org to join the vaccine waitlist.What is important to know about the Moderna vaccine is that you may still get the COVID-19 virus for about two weeks after receiving the vaccination. It is vital to continue to practice social distancing, hand washing, and wearing a mask in public to continue to ensure the wellness of the community. A second dose of the vaccine will need to be received 28 days after the first dose. Symptoms of COVID-19 may arise but will subside within 1-7 days. The Moderna vaccine does not alter DNA or DNA of a cell, and it is a synthetic vaccine meaning it doesn’t give you the virus. There were no shortcuts taken in the development of this vaccine, it was developed using the RNA (ribonucleic acid- a molecule that carries messages from DNA to proteins) technology that has been used for the past 10 years.As more vaccines become available to administer, those on the waitlist will be called. The timeline (which remains fluid) for the general population to receive the vaccine is between May and July of 2021.Box Butte General Hospital is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

BBGH provides COVID-19 update

COVID vaccine allocation to increase for the Panhandle beginning next week

1,100 doses, plus the required 2nd dose, are anticipated to arrive weekly beginning next week. Doses are allocated based on a percentage of the county population. The Panhandle Vaccine Task Force is working together to get shots in arms.

Over 4,700 people have signed up so far! Be sure to help your elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up. This will put them on the list that is being coordinated with local vaccine providers. When vaccines are available, appointments will be scheduled, and individuals will be called days ahead.

We are vaccinating health care providers and those 75 and older first. To date, 4,385 people in the eligible populations have received the COVID vaccine in the Panhandle.

“There are over 15,000 Panhandle residents in the 65+ age range. We are grateful for the vaccine allocation increase and ask all that have called or registered online for the vaccination, please continue to be patient. The list is coordinated with community vaccine providers and they are doing their best locally to get shots in arms,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

A Cheyenne County female in her 50s and a Morrill County male in his 60s are the most recent COVID deaths being announced. This brings the total deaths to 158.

“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.

Unified Command confirms 62 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, January 14. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Doubling time (November 10, 2020-January 17, 2021): 67 days

Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others

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

Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation

Current COVID testing access can be found at <a href="http://www.pphd.org">www.pphd.org</a>.

By PPHDCOVID vaccine allocation to increase for the Panhandle beginning next week<ul>
 <li>Anyone that has previously called or completed the survey, please be assured, you are on the list.</li>
 </ul>1,100 doses, plus the required 2nd dose, are anticipated to arrive weekly beginning next week. Doses are allocated based on a percentage of the county population. The Panhandle Vaccine Task Force is working together to get shots in arms.Any Nebraska Panhandle residents 65 and older or persons with medical conditions and interested in getting a COVID vaccine, please complete the form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d</a>. The online link completion is preferred, people can call 308-262-5764 or 308-633-2866 ext. 101.Over 4,700 people have signed up so far! Be sure to help your elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up. This will put them on the list that is being coordinated with local vaccine providers. When vaccines are available, appointments will be scheduled, and individuals will be called days ahead.We are vaccinating health care providers and those 75 and older first. To date, 4,385 people in the eligible populations have received the COVID vaccine in the Panhandle.“There are over 15,000 Panhandle residents in the 65+ age range. We are grateful for the vaccine allocation increase and ask all that have called or registered online for the vaccination, please continue to be patient. The list is coordinated with community vaccine providers and they are doing their best locally to get shots in arms,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.A Cheyenne County female in her 50s and a Morrill County male in his 60s are the most recent COVID deaths being announced. This brings the total deaths to 158.“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.Unified Command confirms 62 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, January 14. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611017435258.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-January 18, 2021Total Tests Conducted: 31,750Positive: 8,117Last 14 days (active) cases: 330Last week’s cases: 150Last week’s positivity rate: 27.5%Deaths: 158Active Hospitalizations: 10Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 503Doubling time (November 10, 2020-January 17, 2021): 67 daysAvoid the Three Cs:Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from othersAvoid 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 withAvoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilationCurrent COVID testing access can be found at <a href="http://www.pphd.org">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: COVID vaccine allocation to increase for the Panhandle beginning next week

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials say the number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in the state has dropped to its lowest point in nearly three months. 

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services' online virus tracker shows 429 people were hospitalized Sunday with COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. 

That's the lowest number since Oct. 26, when 427 people were hospitalized. 

But the number of new daily cases jumped on Sunday, to 1.061 from 741 on Saturday and 672 on Friday. 

State officials have confirmed 181,978 cases and 1,837 deaths in Nebraska since the pandemic began.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials say the number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in the state has dropped to its lowest point in nearly three months. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services' online virus tracker shows 429 people were hospitalized Sunday with COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. That's the lowest number since Oct. 26, when 427 people were hospitalized. But the number of new daily cases jumped on Sunday, to 1.061 from 741 on Saturday and 672 on Friday. State officials have confirmed 181,978 cases and 1,837 deaths in Nebraska since the pandemic began.

Nebraska COVID hospitalizations drop to lowest since Oct. 26

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Many thought one of South Dakota’s top industries would take a huge hit in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. B

ut, tourism officials say it wasn’t as bad as some other states because of South Dakota’s outdoor opportunities. 

From hiking in the Black Hills to driving through the Badlands, South Dakota’s outdoor venues attracted tourists in 2020 and the state tourism board thinks 2021 will be the same. 

Hospitality businesses and organizations across the state are looking forward to a new year and a vaccine for a fresh start in 2021.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Many thought one of South Dakota’s top industries would take a huge hit in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. But, tourism officials say it wasn’t as bad as some other states because of South Dakota’s outdoor opportunities. From hiking in the Black Hills to driving through the Badlands, South Dakota’s outdoor venues attracted tourists in 2020 and the state tourism board thinks 2021 will be the same. Hospitality businesses and organizations across the state are looking forward to a new year and a vaccine for a fresh start in 2021.

SD Tourism businesses look forward with renewed hope for 2021

Hot Springs, SD — Fall River Health Services continues to provide COVID-19 Vaccine to 1A &amp; 1 C Partners, and now will be including the 1D Priority Group by appointment only starting with: Persons Aged 80 Years and Older, High Risk Patients – dialysis, post-transplant, active cancer, High Risk Residents in Congregate Settings, Residents in Licensed Independent Living Facilities, and Residents in Licensed Group Homes.

FRHS will perform the Phase 1D Priority Vaccine Clinic at the Mueller Center, Hot Springs on January 21st- 3:00- 7:00 pm &amp; January 22nd- 9:00am-1:00pm. Please remember to wear your mask and wear appropriate clothing (short sleeve top). Social distancing practices will be in place, do not come until your scheduled appointment. COVID-19 Vaccine 1A &amp; 1C Partners and now 1D Priority Group can schedule their appointments by calling, 605.745.8910- option #9 or by going to <a href="http://www.frhssd.org/mychart">www.frhssd.org/mychart</a>.

As a reminder, the State Department of Health (DOH) is in charge of determining when other groups will be offered the vaccine and when FRHS will be able to provide it to the next phase. We recommend those who are identified as Phase 1D continue to pay attention to communications from the Department of Health and Fall River Health Services for more information as it becomes available. For more information, please visit <a href="https://doh.sd.gov/covid/">https://doh.sd.gov/covid/</a> or <a href="http://www.frhss.org/covid">www.frhss.org/covid</a>.

Hot Springs, SD — Fall River Health Services continues to provide COVID-19 Vaccine to 1A &amp; 1 C Partners, and now will be including the 1D Priority Group by appointment only starting with: Persons Aged 80 Years and Older, High Risk Patients – dialysis, post-transplant, active cancer, High Risk Residents in Congregate Settings, Residents in Licensed Independent Living Facilities, and Residents in Licensed Group Homes.FRHS will perform the Phase 1D Priority Vaccine Clinic at the Mueller Center, Hot Springs on January 21st- 3:00- 7:00 pm &amp; January 22nd- 9:00am-1:00pm. Please remember to wear your mask and wear appropriate clothing (short sleeve top). Social distancing practices will be in place, do not come until your scheduled appointment. COVID-19 Vaccine 1A &amp; 1C Partners and now 1D Priority Group can schedule their appointments by calling, 605.745.8910- option #9 or by going to <a href="http://www.frhssd.org/mychart">www.frhssd.org/mychart</a>.As a reminder, the State Department of Health (DOH) is in charge of determining when other groups will be offered the vaccine and when FRHS will be able to provide it to the next phase. We recommend those who are identified as Phase 1D continue to pay attention to communications from the Department of Health and Fall River Health Services for more information as it becomes available. For more information, please visit <a href="https://doh.sd.gov/covid/">https://doh.sd.gov/covid/</a> or <a href="http://www.frhss.org/covid">www.frhss.org/covid</a>.

Fall River Health Services to provide COVID-19 Vaccine Phase 1D Priority

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Health officials in Wyoming have confirmed the state’s first case of the more contagious COVID-19 variant that’s been seen in the United Kingdom. 

State and local health officials said a Teton County man tested positive for the variant COVID-19 virus strain.

 He's believed to have been exposed locally. State health officer and epidemiologist Dr. Alexia Harrist says the arrival of the strain is not a surprise, but is concerning because it's more easily transmissible. 

She said Wyoming resident should wear masks, practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings and stay at home when ill unless seeking medical care.

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Health officials in Wyoming have confirmed the state’s first case of the more contagious COVID-19 variant that’s been seen in the United Kingdom. State and local health officials said a Teton County man tested positive for the variant COVID-19 virus strain. He's believed to have been exposed locally. State health officer and epidemiologist Dr. Alexia Harrist says the arrival of the strain is not a surprise, but is concerning because it's more easily transmissible. She said Wyoming resident should wear masks, practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings and stay at home when ill unless seeking medical care.

Wyoming reports 1st case of United Kingdom COVID-19 variant

OAKLAND, Neb. -- Nebraska lawmakers are considering a bill to provide some relief for meat supply chains by allowing consumers to purchase smaller ownership shares of livestock. Aunbrea Zeleny with the Oakland Meat Processing Plant said&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/Intro/LB324.pdf" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 324</a>&nbsp;would help more Nebraskans who have struggled to find meat at grocery stores during the coronavirus pandemic access food from trusted local sources. "The people that aren't able to purchase a $700 quarter, being able to just get that piece of what they need, whether it be the roast, a couple of steaks, some hamburger," Zeleny explained. "This is going to get you to your local farmer's freezer." LB 324 is similar to steps taken by Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oregon and Wyoming to increase local meat-processor capacity. Industry groups representing large-scale producers warned the measure could compromise food safety because consumers could purchase shares of animals processed at sites where U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors are not required to be present. Johnathan Hladik, policy director at the Center for Rural Affairs said local lockers must follow both state and federal regulations for food safety, which allow processing without on-site inspectors for personal use. He added small businesses preparing meat are seasoned professionals with a lot at stake. "These business owners take their job very seriously, and they know their reputation is on the line," Hladik maintained. "And they are not going to let contaminated meat or unsuitable meat into the market because they know that comes back to them and they know that ends their business." Hladik noted the measure also could boost economic growth especially in rural areas. Zeleny suggested local lockers can play a role in breaking the current bottleneck where farmers are waiting up to two years to get animals processed. "Funding will help us be able to build a new building, and will help us keep feeding our local community and surrounding communities," Zeleny contended. The bill was introduced last week by Sen. Tom Brandt, Plymouth, joined by 19 co-sponsors.

From Nebraska News ConnectionBy Eric GalatasOAKLAND, Neb. -- Nebraska lawmakers are considering a bill to provide some relief for meat supply chains by allowing consumers to purchase smaller ownership shares of livestock. Aunbrea Zeleny with the Oakland Meat Processing Plant said&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/Intro/LB324.pdf" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 324</a>&nbsp;would help more Nebraskans who have struggled to find meat at grocery stores during the coronavirus pandemic access food from trusted local sources. "The people that aren't able to purchase a $700 quarter, being able to just get that piece of what they need, whether it be the roast, a couple of steaks, some hamburger," Zeleny explained. "This is going to get you to your local farmer's freezer." LB 324 is similar to steps taken by Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oregon and Wyoming to increase local meat-processor capacity. Industry groups representing large-scale producers warned the measure could compromise food safety because consumers could purchase shares of animals processed at sites where U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors are not required to be present. Johnathan Hladik, policy director at the Center for Rural Affairs said local lockers must follow both state and federal regulations for food safety, which allow processing without on-site inspectors for personal use. He added small businesses preparing meat are seasoned professionals with a lot at stake. "These business owners take their job very seriously, and they know their reputation is on the line," Hladik maintained. "And they are not going to let contaminated meat or unsuitable meat into the market because they know that comes back to them and they know that ends their business." Hladik noted the measure also could boost economic growth especially in rural areas. Zeleny suggested local lockers can play a role in breaking the current bottleneck where farmers are waiting up to two years to get animals processed. "Funding will help us be able to build a new building, and will help us keep feeding our local community and surrounding communities," Zeleny contended. The bill was introduced last week by Sen. Tom Brandt, Plymouth, joined by 19 co-sponsors.

Lawmakers urged to break meat supply-chain logjam

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming 23 new deaths due to complications from the coronavirus. 

The update released Sunday lifted the total number of fatalities to 168 in January and 1,656 since the start of the pandemic. 

The COVID Tracking Project reports that the death toll is the 40th highest in the country overall and the fifth highest per capita at about 185 deaths per 100,000 people. 

The state reported 266 positive tests since Saturday, for a total of 94,557 confirmed cases statewide. 

Health officials say the state had administered 56,625 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to 46,79 people as of Sunday.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming 23 new deaths due to complications from the coronavirus. The update released Sunday lifted the total number of fatalities to 168 in January and 1,656 since the start of the pandemic. The COVID Tracking Project reports that the death toll is the 40th highest in the country overall and the fifth highest per capita at about 185 deaths per 100,000 people. The state reported 266 positive tests since Saturday, for a total of 94,557 confirmed cases statewide. Health officials say the state had administered 56,625 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to 46,79 people as of Sunday.

South Dakota confirms 23 new deaths due to the coronavirus

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California’s state epidemiologist is urging a halt to more than 300,000 coronavirus vaccinations using a Moderna vaccine version because some people received medical treatment for possible severe allergic reactions.

Dr. Erica S. Pan on Sunday recommended providers stop using lot 41L20A of the Moderna vaccine pending completion of an investigation by state officials, Moderna, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the federal Food and Drug Administration.

“Out of an extreme abundance of caution and also recognizing the extremely limited supply of vaccine, we are recommending that providers use other available vaccine inventory,” Pan said in a statement.

She said more than 330,000 doses from the lot arrived in California between Jan. 5 and Jan. 12 and were distributed to 287 providers.

Fewer than 10 people, who all received the vaccine at the same community site, needed medical attention over a 24-hour period, Pan said. No other similar clusters were found.

Pan did not specify the number of cases involved or where they occurred.

However, six San Diego health care workers had allergic reactions to vaccines they received at a mass vaccination center on Jan. 14. The site was temporarily closed and is now using other vaccines, KTGV-TV reported.

Moderna in a statement said the company “is unaware of comparable adverse events from other vaccination centers which may have administered vaccines from the same lot.”

The CDC has said COVID-19 vaccines can cause side effects for a few days that include fever, chills, headache, swelling or tiredness, “which are normal signs that your body is building protection.”

However, severe reactions are extremely rare. Pan said in a vaccine similar to Moderna, the rate of anaphylaxis — in which an immune system reaction can block breathing and cause blood pressure to drop — was about 1 in 100,000.

The announcement came as California counties continue to plead for more COVID-19 vaccine as the state tries to reduce its rate of infection, which has led to record numbers of hospitalizations and deaths.

California, with a population of 40 million, has shipped about about 3.2 million doses of the vaccine — which requires two doses for full immunization — to local health departments and health care systems, the state’s Department of Public Health reported Monday.

Only about 1.4 million of those doses, or around 40%, have been administered.

So far. the state has vaccinated fewer than 2,500 people per 100,000 residents, a rate that falls well below the national average, according to federal data.

Although Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last week that anyone age 65 and older would be eligible to start receiving the vaccine, Los Angeles County and some others have said they do not have enough doses to vaccinate so many people and are first concentrating on inoculating health care workers and the most vulnerable elderly living in care homes.

On Monday, the superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District sent a letter to state and county public health officials asking for authorization to provide COVID-19 vaccinations at schools for staff, local community members and for students once a vaccine for children has been approved.

“Doing so will help reopen schools as soon as possible, and in the safest way possible,” Superintendent Austin Beutner wrote.

California is nearing 3 million coronavirus cases and more than 33,600 people have died since the start of the pandemic last year, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University.

The death rate from COVID-19 in Los Angeles County — the nation’s most populous and an epicenter of the state pandemic — works out to about one person every six minutes.

On Sunday, the South Coast Air Quality Management District suspended some pollution-control limits on the number of cremations for at least 10 days in order to deal with a backlog of bodies at hospitals and funeral homes.

“The current rate of death is more than double that of pre-pandemic years,” the agency said.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California’s state epidemiologist is urging a halt to more than 300,000 coronavirus vaccinations using a Moderna vaccine version because some people received medical treatment for possible severe allergic reactions.Dr. Erica S. Pan on Sunday recommended providers stop using lot 41L20A of the Moderna vaccine pending completion of an investigation by state officials, Moderna, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the federal Food and Drug Administration.“Out of an extreme abundance of caution and also recognizing the extremely limited supply of vaccine, we are recommending that providers use other available vaccine inventory,” Pan said in a statement.She said more than 330,000 doses from the lot arrived in California between Jan. 5 and Jan. 12 and were distributed to 287 providers.Fewer than 10 people, who all received the vaccine at the same community site, needed medical attention over a 24-hour period, Pan said. No other similar clusters were found.Pan did not specify the number of cases involved or where they occurred.However, six San Diego health care workers had allergic reactions to vaccines they received at a mass vaccination center on Jan. 14. The site was temporarily closed and is now using other vaccines, KTGV-TV reported.Moderna in a statement said the company “is unaware of comparable adverse events from other vaccination centers which may have administered vaccines from the same lot.”The CDC has said COVID-19 vaccines can cause side effects for a few days that include fever, chills, headache, swelling or tiredness, “which are normal signs that your body is building protection.”However, severe reactions are extremely rare. Pan said in a vaccine similar to Moderna, the rate of anaphylaxis — in which an immune system reaction can block breathing and cause blood pressure to drop — was about 1 in 100,000.The announcement came as California counties continue to plead for more COVID-19 vaccine as the state tries to reduce its rate of infection, which has led to record numbers of hospitalizations and deaths.California, with a population of 40 million, has shipped about about 3.2 million doses of the vaccine — which requires two doses for full immunization — to local health departments and health care systems, the state’s Department of Public Health reported Monday.Only about 1.4 million of those doses, or around 40%, have been administered.So far. the state has vaccinated fewer than 2,500 people per 100,000 residents, a rate that falls well below the national average, according to federal data.Although Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last week that anyone age 65 and older would be eligible to start receiving the vaccine, Los Angeles County and some others have said they do not have enough doses to vaccinate so many people and are first concentrating on inoculating health care workers and the most vulnerable elderly living in care homes.On Monday, the superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District sent a letter to state and county public health officials asking for authorization to provide COVID-19 vaccinations at schools for staff, local community members and for students once a vaccine for children has been approved.“Doing so will help reopen schools as soon as possible, and in the safest way possible,” Superintendent Austin Beutner wrote.California is nearing 3 million coronavirus cases and more than 33,600 people have died since the start of the pandemic last year, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University.The death rate from COVID-19 in Los Angeles County — the nation’s most populous and an epicenter of the state pandemic — works out to about one person every six minutes.On Sunday, the South Coast Air Quality Management District suspended some pollution-control limits on the number of cremations for at least 10 days in order to deal with a backlog of bodies at hospitals and funeral homes.“The current rate of death is more than double that of pre-pandemic years,” the agency said.

Health official urges stop to 300K vaccines after some fall ill

&nbsp; Lincoln – The University of Nebraska men's basketball program will continue to pause team activities for a minimum of seven more days due to additional positive COVID-19 results among its Tier 1 personnel. Tier 1 personnel include student athletes, coaches and any staff member whose job requires close regular contact. As of testing results through Saturday, Nebraska is in the Red/Red threshold in the Big Ten Conference guidelines for both Team Positivity Rate and Population Positivity Rate. Under those conditions, the team will extend its pause on regular practice and competition for a minimum of seven days. Currently, a total of 12 individuals in the MBB program, including seven players and Head Coach&nbsp;Fred Hoiberg, are in isolation or quarantine due to positive test results per CDC, Big Ten and Lincoln Lancaster County Health Department guidelines. &nbsp;Based on testing results through the latest round of testing, at least 30 percent of Tier 1 personnel has been confirmed positive in the last seven days. Due to the extension of the pause, the Huskers' home game against Minnesota (Jan. 20) and contest at Iowa (Jan. 24) have been postponed. The institutions will work with the Big Ten Conference to identify rescheduling options. At this time, no determination has been made on how the pause may impact scheduled games beyond Jan. 24. We will also conduct all the necessary procedures included in the Big Ten Conference protocols. Consistent with all of our athletic programs, we report any positive test result to the University, and it is included in its daily reports to the Lancaster County Health Department.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By: NU Athletic Communications&nbsp; Lincoln – The University of Nebraska men's basketball program will continue to pause team activities for a minimum of seven more days due to additional positive COVID-19 results among its Tier 1 personnel. Tier 1 personnel include student athletes, coaches and any staff member whose job requires close regular contact. As of testing results through Saturday, Nebraska is in the Red/Red threshold in the Big Ten Conference guidelines for both Team Positivity Rate and Population Positivity Rate. Under those conditions, the team will extend its pause on regular practice and competition for a minimum of seven days. Currently, a total of 12 individuals in the MBB program, including seven players and Head Coach&nbsp;Fred Hoiberg, are in isolation or quarantine due to positive test results per CDC, Big Ten and Lincoln Lancaster County Health Department guidelines. &nbsp;Based on testing results through the latest round of testing, at least 30 percent of Tier 1 personnel has been confirmed positive in the last seven days. Due to the extension of the pause, the Huskers' home game against Minnesota (Jan. 20) and contest at Iowa (Jan. 24) have been postponed. The institutions will work with the Big Ten Conference to identify rescheduling options. At this time, no determination has been made on how the pause may impact scheduled games beyond Jan. 24. We will also conduct all the necessary procedures included in the Big Ten Conference protocols. Consistent with all of our athletic programs, we report any positive test result to the University, and it is included in its daily reports to the Lancaster County Health Department.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Husker men's basketball at a standstill with 12 positive COVID-19 tests

By JULIE APPLEBY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-01-14/private-practice-doctors-patients-wonder-when-its-their-turn-for-the-covid-19-vaccine">Kaiser Health News</a>

Dr. Andrew Carroll — a family doctor in Chandler, Arizona — wants to 
help his patients get immunized against covid, so he paid more than 
$4,000 to buy an ultra-low-temperature freezer from eBay needed to store
 the Pfizer vaccine.

But he’s not sure he’ll get a chance to use 
it, given health officials have so far not said when private doctor’s 
offices will get vaccine.

Not
 only are doctors having trouble getting vaccine for patients, but many 
of the community-based physicians and medical staff that aren’t employed
 by hospitals or health systems also report mixed results in getting 
inoculated. Some have had their shots, yet others are still waiting, 
even though health workers providing direct care to patients are in the 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s top-priority group.

By JULIE APPLEBY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-01-14/private-practice-doctors-patients-wonder-when-its-their-turn-for-the-covid-19-vaccine">Kaiser Health News</a>Dr. Andrew Carroll — a family doctor in Chandler, Arizona — wants to 
help his patients get immunized against covid, so he paid more than 
$4,000 to buy an ultra-low-temperature freezer from eBay needed to store
 the Pfizer vaccine.But he’s not sure he’ll get a chance to use 
it, given health officials have so far not said when private doctor’s 
offices will get vaccine.“I’m really angry,” said Carroll.Not
 only are doctors having trouble getting vaccine for patients, but many 
of the community-based physicians and medical staff that aren’t employed
 by hospitals or health systems also report mixed results in getting 
inoculated. Some have had their shots, yet others are still waiting, 
even though health workers providing direct care to patients are in the 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s top-priority group.Many
 of these doctors say they don’t know when — or if — they will get doses
 for their patients, which will soon become a bigger issue as states 
attempt to vaccinate more people.“The reason that’s important is 
patients trust their doctors when it comes to the vaccine,” said 
Carroll, who has complained on social media that his county hasn’t yet 
released plans on how primary care doctors will be brought into the 
loop.Collectively, physicians in the county could vaccinate 
thousands of patients a day, he said, and might draw some who would 
otherwise be hesitant if they had to go to a large hospital, a 
fairground or another central site.His concern comes as, 
nationally, the rollout of the vaccine is off to a slower start than 
expected, lagging far behind the initial goal of giving 20 million doses
 before the new year.But Dr. Jen Brull, a family practice doctor 
in Plainville, Kansas, said her rural area has made good progress on the
 first phase of vaccinations, crediting close working relationships 
formed well before the pandemic.This fall, before any doses 
became available, the local hospital, the health department and 
physician offices coordinated a sign-up list for medical workers who 
wanted the vaccine. So, when their county, with a population of 5,000, 
got its first 70 doses, they were ready to go. Another 80 doses came a 
week later.“We’ll be able to vaccinate almost all the health care-associated folks who wanted it in the county” Brull said recently<h2>Gaps in the Rollout</h2>But that’s not the case everywhere.Dr.
 Jason Goldman, an internist in Coral Springs, Florida, said he was able
 to get vaccinated at a local hospital that received the bulk of 
vaccines in his county and oversaw distribution.In the weeks since, however, he said several of his front-line staff members still “don’t have access to the vaccine.”Additionally,
 “a tremendous number” of patients are calling his office because 
Florida has relaxed distribution guidelines to include anyone over age 
65, Goldman said, asking when they can get the vaccine. He’s applied to 
officials about distributing the vaccines through his practice but has 
heard nothing back.Patients “are frustrated that they do not have
 clear answers and that I am not being given clear answers to provide 
them,” he said. “We have no choice but to direct them to the health 
department and some of the hospital systems.”Another troubling 
point for Goldman, who served as a liaison between the American College 
of Physicians and the expert panel drawing up the CDC distribution 
guidelines, is the tremendous variation in how those recommendations are
 being implemented in the states.The CDC <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations-process.html" target="_blank">recommends</a>
 several phases, with front-line health care workers and nursing home 
residents and staff in the initial group. Then, in the second part of 
that phase, come people over 75 and non-health care front-line workers, 
which could include first responders, teachers and other designated 
essential workers.States have the flexibility to design their own
 rollout schedule and priority groups. Florida, for example, is offering
 doses to anyone 65 and up. In some counties, older folks were told 
vaccines were available on a first-come, first-served basis, a move that
 has resulted in long lines.“To say right now, 65-plus, when you 
haven’t even appropriately vaccinated all the health care workers, is 
negating the phasing,” said Goldman. “There needs to be a national 
standard. We have those guidelines. We need to come up with some 
oversight.”On Thursday, the American Hospital Association echoed 
that concern in a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex 
Azar. Hospitals — along with health departments and large pharmacy 
chains — are doing the bulk of the vaccinations.Calling for additional coordination by federal officials, the <a href="https://www.aha.org/system/files/media/file/2021/01/aha-hhs-leadership-actions-needed-expedite-administration-covid-19-vaccines-lettetr-1-7-20.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a>
 outlined what it would take to reach the goal of vaccinating 75% of 
Americans by the end of May: 1.8 million vaccinations every day. Noting 
there are 64 different rollout plans from states, cities and other 
jurisdictions, the letter asked whether HHS has “assessed whether these 
plans, taken as a whole, are capable of achieving this level of 
vaccination?”<h2>Making It Work</h2>Lack of direct national 
support or strategy means each county is essentially on its own, with 
success or failure affected by available resources and the experience of
 local officials. Most state and local health departments are 
underfunded and are under intense pressure because of the surging 
pandemic.Still, the success of vaccination efforts depends on planning, preparation and clear communication.In
 Lorain County, Ohio, population 310,000, local officials started 
practicing in October, said Mark Adams, deputy health commissioner. They
 set up mass vaccination clinics for influenza to study what would be 
needed for a covid vaccination effort. How many staff? What would the 
traffic flow be like? Could patients be kept 6 feet apart?“That 
gave us an idea of what is good, what is bad and what needs to change,” 
said Adams, who has had previous experience coordinating mass 
vaccination efforts at a county level.So, when the county got its
 first shipment of 500 doses Dec. 21, Adams had his plan ready. He 
called the fire chiefs to invite all emergency medical technicians and 
affiliated personnel to an ad hoc vaccination center set up at a large 
entertainment venue staffed by his health department. Upon arrival, 
people were greeted at the door and directed to spaced-apart “lanes” 
where they would get their shots, then to a monitoring area where they 
could wait for 15 minutes to make sure they didn’t have a reaction.Right
 after Christmas, another 400 doses arrived — and the makeshift clinic 
opened again. This time, doses went to community-based physicians, 
dentists and other hands-on medical practitioners, 600 of whom had 
previously signed up. (Hospital workers and nursing home staff and 
residents are getting their vaccinations through their own 
institutions.)As they move into the next phase — recipients 
include residents over 80, people with developmental disorders and 
school staff — the challenges will grow, he said. The county plans a 
multipronged approach to notify people when it’s their turn, including 
use of a website, the local media, churches, other organizations and 
word-of-mouth.Adams shares the concerns of medical providers 
nationwide: He gets only two days’ notice of how many doses he’s going 
to receive and, at the current pace of 400 or 500 doses a week, it’s 
going to take a while before most residents in the county have a chance 
to get a shot, including the estimated 33,000 people 65 and older.With
 10 nurses, his clinic can inject about 1,200 people a day. But many 
other health professionals have volunteered to administer the shots if 
he gets more doses.“If I were to run three clinics, five days a 
week, I could do 15,000 vaccinations a week,” Adams said. “With all the 
volunteers, I could do almost six clinics, or 30,000 a week.”Still,
 for those in the last public group, those age 18 and up without 
underlying medical conditions, “it could be summer,” Adams said.<a href="http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/" target="_blank">Kaiser Health News</a>&nbsp;is a national health policy news service. It is an editorially independent program of the <a href="http://www.kff.org/" target="_blank">Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation</a> which is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.

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