MISSION, S.D. (AP) — Native American voting advocates say the slow-moving nature of mail on large reservations puts the people who live there at a disadvantage to getting their votes counted. 

They have launched a series of legal challenges in several states to gain accommodations for reservation voters, but with the election only days away, they are pressing people to figure out how to get their ballot counted as the coronavirus upends life in Native American communities. 

As coronavirus cases surge across the Dakotas and Montana, voting groups have tried to get creative as they dodge the virus.

MISSION, S.D. (AP) — Native American voting advocates say the slow-moving nature of mail on large reservations puts the people who live there at a disadvantage to getting their votes counted. They have launched a series of legal challenges in several states to gain accommodations for reservation voters, but with the election only days away, they are pressing people to figure out how to get their ballot counted as the coronavirus upends life in Native American communities. As coronavirus cases surge across the Dakotas and Montana, voting groups have tried to get creative as they dodge the virus.

Voting by mail isn't so easy on Native American reservations

The Bulldog Backpack Program is the recipient of $1,500 from United Way’s Week of Caring. For the past five years, United Way volunteers have gathered each October to package meals consisting of oatmeal, apple and cinnamon cereal, as well as macaroni and cheese packets. The pre-packaged meals were then distributed to various organizations in the community. One of the recipients has been the Alliance Bulldog Backpack Program. This year, because of the pandemic, United Way sought an alternative to the meals and reached out to the Day of Caring sponsors to transition to a Week of Caring focusing on food insecurity. During the Week of Caring, United Way granted Visa gift cards to food service organization to be used to purchase food for local food insecure families. Sponsors of United Way’s Week of Caring include: Wells Fargo, United Healthcare, Bob Schmidt Foundation and Farm Credit Services of America. The grant funds will enable the Alliance Bulldog Backpack Program to purchase food to send home on the weekend to hungry children. The students are identified by the Alliance Public School counselors and receive bags of food to take home on the last day of the school week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Bulldog Backpack Program is the recipient of $1,500 from United Way’s Week of Caring. For the past five years, United Way volunteers have gathered each October to package meals consisting of oatmeal, apple and cinnamon cereal, as well as macaroni and cheese packets. The pre-packaged meals were then distributed to various organizations in the community. One of the recipients has been the Alliance Bulldog Backpack Program. This year, because of the pandemic, United Way sought an alternative to the meals and reached out to the Day of Caring sponsors to transition to a Week of Caring focusing on food insecurity. During the Week of Caring, United Way granted Visa gift cards to food service organization to be used to purchase food for local food insecure families. Sponsors of United Way’s Week of Caring include: Wells Fargo, United Healthcare, Bob Schmidt Foundation and Farm Credit Services of America. The grant funds will enable the Alliance Bulldog Backpack Program to purchase food to send home on the weekend to hungry children. The students are identified by the Alliance Public School counselors and receive bags of food to take home on the last day of the school week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

United Way announces donation to Alliance Bulldog Backpack Program

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska's prison system continues to struggle with the spread of the coronavirus among inmates and staff.

 The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said Monday that it has placed its Work Ethic Camp near McCook under quarantine after one inmate and three staff members tested positive for the virus. 

The release says the inmate has been isolated, while the staff members are isolating at home. 

The news follows orders last week to quarantine the Community Corrections Center in Lincoln after several inmates there tested positive for the virus. 

The department's website shows the total number of confirmed cases among inmates and staff in Nebraska's prisons has topped 260 since the pandemic began.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska's prison system continues to struggle with the spread of the coronavirus among inmates and staff. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said Monday that it has placed its Work Ethic Camp near McCook under quarantine after one inmate and three staff members tested positive for the virus. The release says the inmate has been isolated, while the staff members are isolating at home. The news follows orders last week to quarantine the Community Corrections Center in Lincoln after several inmates there tested positive for the virus. The department's website shows the total number of confirmed cases among inmates and staff in Nebraska's prisons has topped 260 since the pandemic began. Two inmates have died.

Nebraska's prisons continue to struggle with new virus cases

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of deaths linked to the coronavirus has topped 600 in Nebraska, and the number of people hospitalized with the virus in the state remains near record levels as the recent surge of new cases continues. 

Nebraska health officials reported seven new deaths Monday to give the state 603 deaths linked to COVID-19.

 The number of virus cases grew by 702 to reach 64,499 since the pandemic began, and the rate of new cases ranked eighth-highest in the nation. 

The state also said 427 people were hospitalized with the virus, which is just below the record of 436 that was set on Saturday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of deaths linked to the coronavirus has topped 600 in Nebraska, and the number of people hospitalized with the virus in the state remains near record levels as the recent surge of new cases continues. Nebraska health officials reported seven new deaths Monday to give the state 603 deaths linked to COVID-19. The number of virus cases grew by 702 to reach 64,499 since the pandemic began, and the rate of new cases ranked eighth-highest in the nation. The state also said 427 people were hospitalized with the virus, which is just below the record of 436 that was set on Saturday.

Nebraska virus deaths top 600 as hospitalizations stay high

Over the past four years, President Donald J. Trump has adopted a tough, principled stand against China’s communist regime.&nbsp; During his time in the White House, President Trump has been unafraid to call out the Chinese Communist Party and the government—the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—for its responsibility for the global pandemic, human rights abuses, and unfair trade practices.

Ever since the coronavirus spread around the world, President Trump has demanded that world leaders hold the PRC accountable for the severity of the pandemic.&nbsp; Experts agree that evidence points to Wuhan, China as the source of the virus.&nbsp; Instead of ringing alarm bells about the initial outbreak, Chinese Communist Party officials covered up the spread of the virus.&nbsp; Their secrecy deprived the international community of crucial information needed to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp; To hide the true source of the virus, the PRC even circulated a bizarre conspiracy theory accusing the U.S. Army of having introduced it to Wuhan.&nbsp; President Trump hasn’t let the Chinese government off the hook for the way it suppressed information that allowed the coronavirus to spread around the globe. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As it became apparent that the virus was a growing threat, President Trump took quick action to halt travel from China to the U.S. on January 31, 2020.&nbsp; This early decision slowed the spread of the virus in the United States and bought valuable time for health officials to prepare for it.&nbsp; Yet at the time, many criticized the President’s travel ban.&nbsp; The day after the White House announced the ban, former Vice President Joe Biden rashly accused President Trump of being motivated by “hysteria.”&nbsp; Given what is now commonly known about the virus, it’s clear that President Trump’s wise foresight to stop travel from China saved American lives.

Even as the world deals with the coronavirus, President Trump has been an outspoken critic of the PRC’s record on human rights, denouncing it for oppressing minorities in Mainland China and for violating basic political freedoms in Hong Kong.&nbsp; In July 2020, the Trump Administration imposed sanctions on high-ranking officials within China’s ruling Communist Party for their role in the persecution of Uighurs, Kazakhs, and other minority groups.&nbsp; The PRC has forced up to one million Uighurs to live in concentration camps, where they are indoctrinated with PRC propaganda, made to do hard labor, and reportedly undergo forced sterilizations.&nbsp; In addition to the mass detentions, the PRC is engaging in intrusive surveillance of minority groups to identify and root out dissent.&nbsp; Other countries are following President Trump’s leadership in denouncing this vile treatment, as just last week the Canadian parliament urged sanctions against the PRC.

While placing ethnic minorities in camps, the PRC has stepped up religious persecution as well.&nbsp; According to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, “Religious freedom conditions in China continue to deteriorate. &nbsp;The communist Chinese government has created a high-tech surveillance state, utilizing facial recognition and artificial intelligence to monitor and harass Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falon Gong, and other religions.”&nbsp; The Trump Administration has repeatedly condemned the PRC’s religious repression. &nbsp;On June 2nd, President Trump signed an executive order to ramp up U.S. efforts to promote religious freedom as a key American foreign policy priority.

Even though Hong Kong is supposed to retain a high level of autonomy for decades to come, the PRC has also cracked down on political dissent in the territory.&nbsp; Under the premise of protecting “national security,” the Communist regime enacted a law in June to enable its agents to round up and imprison critics of China’s one-party Communist government.&nbsp; In response to these abuses, President Trump signed an executive order in July to place sanctions on government officials in Hong Kong who undermine political rights.&nbsp; The President also eliminated tariff exemptions given to Hong Kong in 1992, now that its government has come under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party headquartered in Beijing.

While confronting the PRC’s assault on human rights, the President has also exposed communist China’s unfair trade practices. &nbsp;In recent years, the PRC has engaged in cyberattacks, intellectual property theft, and espionage all with the aim of gaining the upper hand over the U.S.&nbsp; The PRC has stolen everything from trade secrets to confidential military information to university research.&nbsp; According to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the FBI opens a China-related intellectual property theft case about one every 10 hours.&nbsp; In 2018, President Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods as a wakeup call to the PRC that its misbehavior will no longer be tolerated.&nbsp; The Trump administration has also correctly sought to address China’s overreach in official bodies such as the World Trade Organization, calling on the body to strip China of its developing country status.&nbsp; In August 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department declared that China’s government has also been manipulating currency values to gain an unfair economic edge. &nbsp;The Chinese government has been actively working to undermine the United States for years.&nbsp; President Trump recognizes the challenge and is committed to countering the PRC’s aggression.&nbsp;

With over a billion people and the world’s second-largest economy, China has the potential to be a great trading partner for the United States, but it needs to take meaningful actions, such as respecting human rights and fully implementing the Phase One trade deal it inked with President Trump.&nbsp; According to recent reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, significant progress has been made on this front.&nbsp; U.S. corn sales to China are at an all-time high.&nbsp; Soybean sales are the strongest they’ve ever been.&nbsp; And beef exports are triple what they were in 2017.&nbsp; These results are a testament to President Trump’s leadership and the success of his foreign policy towards China.

If you have questions about the future of U.S.-China relations, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Nebraskans want to expand trade and share our prosperity.&nbsp; We know, however, that the best way to grow the Good Life is to stick to our principles.

Over the past four years, President Donald J. Trump has adopted a tough, principled stand against China’s communist regime.&nbsp; During his time in the White House, President Trump has been unafraid to call out the Chinese Communist Party and the government—the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—for its responsibility for the global pandemic, human rights abuses, and unfair trade practices.Ever since the coronavirus spread around the world, President Trump has demanded that world leaders hold the PRC accountable for the severity of the pandemic.&nbsp; Experts agree that evidence points to Wuhan, China as the source of the virus.&nbsp; Instead of ringing alarm bells about the initial outbreak, Chinese Communist Party officials covered up the spread of the virus.&nbsp; Their secrecy deprived the international community of crucial information needed to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp; To hide the true source of the virus, the PRC even circulated a bizarre conspiracy theory accusing the U.S. Army of having introduced it to Wuhan.&nbsp; President Trump hasn’t let the Chinese government off the hook for the way it suppressed information that allowed the coronavirus to spread around the globe. &nbsp;&nbsp;As it became apparent that the virus was a growing threat, President Trump took quick action to halt travel from China to the U.S. on January 31, 2020.&nbsp; This early decision slowed the spread of the virus in the United States and bought valuable time for health officials to prepare for it.&nbsp; Yet at the time, many criticized the President’s travel ban.&nbsp; The day after the White House announced the ban, former Vice President Joe Biden rashly accused President Trump of being motivated by “hysteria.”&nbsp; Given what is now commonly known about the virus, it’s clear that President Trump’s wise foresight to stop travel from China saved American lives.Even as the world deals with the coronavirus, President Trump has been an outspoken critic of the PRC’s record on human rights, denouncing it for oppressing minorities in Mainland China and for violating basic political freedoms in Hong Kong.&nbsp; In July 2020, the Trump Administration imposed sanctions on high-ranking officials within China’s ruling Communist Party for their role in the persecution of Uighurs, Kazakhs, and other minority groups.&nbsp; The PRC has forced up to one million Uighurs to live in concentration camps, where they are indoctrinated with PRC propaganda, made to do hard labor, and reportedly undergo forced sterilizations.&nbsp; In addition to the mass detentions, the PRC is engaging in intrusive surveillance of minority groups to identify and root out dissent.&nbsp; Other countries are following President Trump’s leadership in denouncing this vile treatment, as just last week the Canadian parliament urged sanctions against the PRC.While placing ethnic minorities in camps, the PRC has stepped up religious persecution as well.&nbsp; According to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, “Religious freedom conditions in China continue to deteriorate. &nbsp;The communist Chinese government has created a high-tech surveillance state, utilizing facial recognition and artificial intelligence to monitor and harass Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falon Gong, and other religions.”&nbsp; The Trump Administration has repeatedly condemned the PRC’s religious repression. &nbsp;On June 2nd, President Trump signed an executive order to ramp up U.S. efforts to promote religious freedom as a key American foreign policy priority.Even though Hong Kong is supposed to retain a high level of autonomy for decades to come, the PRC has also cracked down on political dissent in the territory.&nbsp; Under the premise of protecting “national security,” the Communist regime enacted a law in June to enable its agents to round up and imprison critics of China’s one-party Communist government.&nbsp; In response to these abuses, President Trump signed an executive order in July to place sanctions on government officials in Hong Kong who undermine political rights.&nbsp; The President also eliminated tariff exemptions given to Hong Kong in 1992, now that its government has come under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party headquartered in Beijing.While confronting the PRC’s assault on human rights, the President has also exposed communist China’s unfair trade practices. &nbsp;In recent years, the PRC has engaged in cyberattacks, intellectual property theft, and espionage all with the aim of gaining the upper hand over the U.S.&nbsp; The PRC has stolen everything from trade secrets to confidential military information to university research.&nbsp; According to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the FBI opens a China-related intellectual property theft case about one every 10 hours.&nbsp; In 2018, President Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods as a wakeup call to the PRC that its misbehavior will no longer be tolerated.&nbsp; The Trump administration has also correctly sought to address China’s overreach in official bodies such as the World Trade Organization, calling on the body to strip China of its developing country status.&nbsp; In August 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department declared that China’s government has also been manipulating currency values to gain an unfair economic edge. &nbsp;The Chinese government has been actively working to undermine the United States for years.&nbsp; President Trump recognizes the challenge and is committed to countering the PRC’s aggression.&nbsp;With over a billion people and the world’s second-largest economy, China has the potential to be a great trading partner for the United States, but it needs to take meaningful actions, such as respecting human rights and fully implementing the Phase One trade deal it inked with President Trump.&nbsp; According to recent reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, significant progress has been made on this front.&nbsp; U.S. corn sales to China are at an all-time high.&nbsp; Soybean sales are the strongest they’ve ever been.&nbsp; And beef exports are triple what they were in 2017.&nbsp; These results are a testament to President Trump’s leadership and the success of his foreign policy towards China.If you have questions about the future of U.S.-China relations, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Nebraskans want to expand trade and share our prosperity.&nbsp; We know, however, that the best way to grow the Good Life is to stick to our principles.

Gov. Ricketts: President Trump’s China Policy

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 11 hospitalizations in the last day due to the coronavirus, boosting the total number of patients in medical facilities to a record 377.

 The update released Monday showed 538 new cases of COVID-19, following two straight days in which the state topped 1,000 positive tests.

 A total of 38,504 people have been diagnosed with the virus since the start of the pandemic. 

The number of fatalities remained at 375 with no new deaths reported Monday. 

State Department of Health figures show that more than 35% of inpatient hospital beds are available statewide, as well as nearly 32% of intensive care unit beds.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 11 hospitalizations in the last day due to the coronavirus, boosting the total number of patients in medical facilities to a record 377. The update released Monday showed 538 new cases of COVID-19, following two straight days in which the state topped 1,000 positive tests. A total of 38,504 people have been diagnosed with the virus since the start of the pandemic. The number of fatalities remained at 375 with no new deaths reported Monday. State Department of Health figures show that more than 35% of inpatient hospital beds are available statewide, as well as nearly 32% of intensive care unit beds.

South Dakota COVID-19 hospitalizations hit record for 2nd day

&nbsp;Panhandle total: 1,957; Active: 709; Recovered: 1,236; Deaths: 12

A male in his 70s is the first COVID-related death in Dawes County, this brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 12.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of his death. We wish his family and friends peace and comfort during their time of loss,” expressed Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

The current doubling rate for cases is 22 days. This means from October 4-October 26, 2020, there were 965 cases in the Panhandle. The first case in the Panhandle was on March 29, 2020, from this date to October 4, 2020 is 189 days and was the reported equivalent of cases in the previous 22 days.

Please continue all of the important precautions to protect you, your loved ones, and your community from the spread of COVID. Wear a mask when possible, stay at least six feet away from others, monitor for any symptoms, and stay home if you are not feeling well. Please practice these safety tips out of an abundance of kindness and humility for others.

Unified Command confirms 326 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, October 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined

Testing information and access for the Panhandle area: · You can sign up for the following free testing at Testnebraska.com or 402-207-9377:

o Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance: Monday-Friday, 9-10am

- Ambulance Bay on the east side of the emergency department, watch for the green arrows

o Chadron Community Hospital: Mondays &amp; Fridays, 7-9am

- Collections are at 821 Morehead Street (Old Hospital ER Entrance next to Wilson Park)

- 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.

o Gordon Memorial Hospital: Tuesdays &amp; Thursdays, 2-4pm

o Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff: Mondays &amp; Fridays, Noon-4pm; Wednesdays, 2-6pm

o Sidney Regional Medical Center: Tuesdays &amp; Thursday, 7-9am

· Community Action Health Center in Gering: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, &amp; Thursdays, 7-8am o Testing is free, sign up at https://tinyurl.com/yydxr5mc

· Alliance Community Pharmacy in Alliance: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm

o For people experiencing symptoms, same day results. Call 308-629-1045 for appointment, fee is $105.

· Morrill County Community Hospital in Bridgeport: Daily

o Call 308-262-1616 for testing, same day results, insurance can be billed.

· Contact your local hospital or clinic for information on testing access.

· Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 133

Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.

For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

By PPHD&nbsp;Panhandle total: 1,957; Active: 709; Recovered: 1,236; Deaths: 12A male in his 70s is the first COVID-related death in Dawes County, this brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 12.“We are deeply saddened to hear of his death. We wish his family and friends peace and comfort during their time of loss,” expressed Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.The current doubling rate for cases is 22 days. This means from October 4-October 26, 2020, there were 965 cases in the Panhandle. The first case in the Panhandle was on March 29, 2020, from this date to October 4, 2020 is 189 days and was the reported equivalent of cases in the previous 22 days.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603764124826.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Please continue all of the important precautions to protect you, your loved ones, and your community from the spread of COVID. Wear a mask when possible, stay at least six feet away from others, monitor for any symptoms, and stay home if you are not feeling well. Please practice these safety tips out of an abundance of kindness and humility for others.Unified Command confirms 326 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, October 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603764022458.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Testing information and access for the Panhandle area: · You can sign up for the following free testing at Testnebraska.com or 402-207-9377:o Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance: Monday-Friday, 9-10am- Ambulance Bay on the east side of the emergency department, watch for the green arrowso Chadron Community Hospital: Mondays &amp; Fridays, 7-9am- Collections are at 821 Morehead Street (Old Hospital ER Entrance next to Wilson Park)- 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.o Gordon Memorial Hospital: Tuesdays &amp; Thursdays, 2-4pmo Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff: Mondays &amp; Fridays, Noon-4pm; Wednesdays, 2-6pmo Sidney Regional Medical Center: Tuesdays &amp; Thursday, 7-9am· Community Action Health Center in Gering: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, &amp; Thursdays, 7-8am o Testing is free, sign up at https://tinyurl.com/yydxr5mc· Alliance Community Pharmacy in Alliance: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pmo For people experiencing symptoms, same day results. Call 308-629-1045 for appointment, fee is $105.· Morrill County Community Hospital in Bridgeport: Dailyo Call 308-262-1616 for testing, same day results, insurance can be billed.· Contact your local hospital or clinic for information on testing access.March 2-October 26, 2020· Total Tests Conducted: 18,750· Positive: 1,957· Cumulative Positivity Rate: 10.2%· Recovered: 1,236· Active Cases: 709· Deaths: 12· Active Hospitalizations: 33· Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 133Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603764206221.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603764261358.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

PPHD: Total cases doubled in the past 22 days, first death in Dawes Co.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Democratic congressional candidate in Nebraska was exposed to the coronavirus after her fiancee, a county commissioner in Lincoln, became infected. State Sen. Kate Bolz, of Lincoln, says she is self-isolating after her fiancee, Sean Flowerday, tested positive for the virus earlier in the day. 

Flowerday is the chairman of the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners.

 Bolz is running against incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry for the House seat in Nebraska’s 1st Congressional District. 

The GOP-heavy district includes Lincoln, Bellevue, Fremont and Norfolk, along with other parts of eastern Nebraska excluding Omaha and its suburbs.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Democratic congressional candidate in Nebraska was exposed to the coronavirus after her fiancee, a county commissioner in Lincoln, became infected. State Sen. Kate Bolz, of Lincoln, says she is self-isolating after her fiancee, Sean Flowerday, tested positive for the virus earlier in the day. Flowerday is the chairman of the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners. Bolz is running against incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry for the House seat in Nebraska’s 1st Congressional District. The GOP-heavy district includes Lincoln, Bellevue, Fremont and Norfolk, along with other parts of eastern Nebraska excluding Omaha and its suburbs.

Nebraska candidate exposed to virus, awaiting test results

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials say health care providers and elderly and vulnerable residents will be first in line to get a coronavirus vaccination when it becomes available as early as this year. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts and public health officials say they plan to give those groups top priority in their plans to distribute their limited share of the vaccine, once it’s developed and shipped. 

The announcement came as Nebraska sees a record number of people hospitalized because of the coronavirus. 

The number of new virus-related hospitalizations jumped to a record-high 436 on Saturday, and the number on Sunday held steady at 436.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials say health care providers and elderly and vulnerable residents will be first in line to get a coronavirus vaccination when it becomes available as early as this year. Gov. Pete Ricketts and public health officials say they plan to give those groups top priority in their plans to distribute their limited share of the vaccine, once it’s developed and shipped. The announcement came as Nebraska sees a record number of people hospitalized because of the coronavirus. The number of new virus-related hospitalizations jumped to a record-high 436 on Saturday, and the number on Sunday held steady at 436.

Nebraska health providers, seniors to get vaccine first

AP - As the number of cases of COVID-19 increase, it's inevitable that some health care workers are infected. And when they are, people they work closely with are also asked to quarantine, creating a shortage that threatens services. 

Kaiser Health News reports a staff shortage closed a specialty clinic in Helena for two weeks last month. And Kalispell Regional Medical Center is no longer requiring staff who are close contacts to quarantine as long as they aren't symptomatic. 

In North Dakota, hospitals may end up curtailing elective surgeries if the case growth continues.

AP - As the number of cases of COVID-19 increase, it's inevitable that some health care workers are infected. And when they are, people they work closely with are also asked to quarantine, creating a shortage that threatens services. Kaiser Health News reports a staff shortage closed a specialty clinic in Helena for two weeks last month. And Kalispell Regional Medical Center is no longer requiring staff who are close contacts to quarantine as long as they aren't symptomatic. In North Dakota, hospitals may end up curtailing elective surgeries if the case growth continues.

COVID-19 infections causing health care worker shortages

The Alliance Board of Education held an emergency meeting on Oct. 25 to address increasing student quarantine numbers and COVID-19 infection rates. Alliance Public Schools have since implemented new guidelines to help slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

"The Board is reluctant to mandate masks, but is strongly recommending all students to wear masks when they return to school on Tuesday, Oct. 27," said Dr. Troy Unzicker, Alliance Public Schools&nbsp;Superintendent. "If students do not have masks one will be provided for them at the office."

Unzicker said students who wear masks will be seated together and socially distanced from individuals who do not wear masks.

"This distance will help protect students wearing masks from being quarantined, as they will be distanced from individuals who do not wear masks," Unzicker added. "Please talk to your student and encourage them to wear a mask to allow them to stay in school and slow the spread in our community.   We also want to remind parents to carefully monitor your student for symptoms.  If symptoms appear please ensure they remain at home to limit exposure of other students.  If we all work together we can minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our students and community."

There are currently 100 students quarantined in the Alliance High School, 66 at the Middle School, 13 in Grandview Elementary, 23 at Emerson Elementary and 4 at Early Childhood schools.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Alliance Board of Education held an emergency meeting on Oct. 25 to address increasing student quarantine numbers and COVID-19 infection rates. Alliance Public Schools have since implemented new guidelines to help slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp;"The Board is reluctant to mandate masks, but is strongly recommending all students to wear masks when they return to school on Tuesday, Oct. 27," said Dr. Troy Unzicker, Alliance Public Schools&nbsp;Superintendent. "If students do not have masks one will be provided for them at the office."Unzicker said students who wear masks will be seated together and socially distanced from individuals who do not wear masks."This distance will help protect students wearing masks from being quarantined, as they will be distanced from individuals who do not wear masks," Unzicker added. "Please talk to your student and encourage them to wear a mask to allow them to stay in school and slow the spread in our community. We also want to remind parents to carefully monitor your student for symptoms. If symptoms appear please ensure they remain at home to limit exposure of other students. If we all work together we can minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our students and community."There are currently 100 students quarantined in the Alliance High School, 66 at the Middle School, 13 in Grandview Elementary, 23 at Emerson Elementary and 4 at Early Childhood schools.&nbsp;

Alliance Public Schools BOE strongly recommends students to wear masks

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials say the number of new COVID-19 cases in South Dakota increased by more than 1,000 for the second time in three days. 

The state Department of Health is reporting 1,063 new cases in the last day, two days after the state recorded a daily high of 1,185 cases. 

A total of 3,187 positive tests were confirmed in the last three days and 37,979 cumulative infections have been diagnosed since the pandemic began. 

Figures compiled Saturday by Johns Hopkins University researchers shows there were more than 1,155 new cases per 100,000 people in South Dakota over the past two weeks.

 That ranks second in the country behind North Dakota for new cases per capita.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials say the number of new COVID-19 cases in South Dakota increased by more than 1,000 for the second time in three days. The state Department of Health is reporting 1,063 new cases in the last day, two days after the state recorded a daily high of 1,185 cases. A total of 3,187 positive tests were confirmed in the last three days and 37,979 cumulative infections have been diagnosed since the pandemic began. Figures compiled Saturday by Johns Hopkins University researchers shows there were more than 1,155 new cases per 100,000 people in South Dakota over the past two weeks. That ranks second in the country behind North Dakota for new cases per capita.

South Dakota tops 1,000 virus cases for 2nd time in 3 days

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska public health officials confirmed another 977 coronavirus cases on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 61,285, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">tracking portal</a>.

The number tracks with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-pandemics-pete-ricketts-nebraska-da8092802a4251e12c4d1c8a54195f4a" target="_blank">recent surge</a>&nbsp;in cases that led Gov. Pete Ricketts to reimpose some social-distancing restrictions to avoid overwhelming Nebraska's hospitals.

State officials say 559,625 people in Nebraska have gotten tested since the pandemic began, and 498,023 have tested negative. They've confirmed 587 virus-related deaths so far.

Nebraska's hospitals still have 1,336 beds available for patients, about 29% of their total capacity. They also have 198 intensive care beds available, accounting for 31% of the total supply, and 632 ventilators that can be used, roughly 77% of the total.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska public health officials confirmed another 977 coronavirus cases on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 61,285, according to the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">tracking portal</a>.The number tracks with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-pandemics-pete-ricketts-nebraska-da8092802a4251e12c4d1c8a54195f4a" target="_blank">recent surge</a>&nbsp;in cases that led Gov. Pete Ricketts to reimpose some social-distancing restrictions to avoid overwhelming Nebraska's hospitals.State officials say 559,625 people in Nebraska have gotten tested since the pandemic began, and 498,023 have tested negative. They've confirmed 587 virus-related deaths so far.Nebraska's hospitals still have 1,336 beds available for patients, about 29% of their total capacity. They also have 198 intensive care beds available, accounting for 31% of the total supply, and 632 ventilators that can be used, roughly 77% of the total.

Nebraska reports another 977 known coronavirus cases

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The United States is approaching a record for the number of new daily coronavirus cases in the latest ominous sign of the disease’s grip on the nation. 

The surge’s impact is being felt in every section of the country. 

Among the latest developments: a lockdown at the Ogala Sioux Tribe’s reservation in South Dakota and a plea by a Florida health official for a halt to children’s birthday parties. 

There’s an increasingly desperate situation at a hospital in northern Idaho, which is running out of space for patients and considering airlifts to Portland, Oregon, or Seattle.

 The surge in the U.S. mirrors a similar spike in Europe.

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The United States is approaching a record for the number of new daily coronavirus cases in the latest ominous sign of the disease’s grip on the nation. The surge’s impact is being felt in every section of the country. Among the latest developments: a lockdown at the Ogala Sioux Tribe’s reservation in South Dakota and a plea by a Florida health official for a halt to children’s birthday parties. There’s an increasingly desperate situation at a hospital in northern Idaho, which is running out of space for patients and considering airlifts to Portland, Oregon, or Seattle. The surge in the U.S. mirrors a similar spike in Europe.

Some hospitals in crisis as US nears high for COVID-19 cases

Once again this year Eagle Communications will host marketing specialist Speed Marriot for a series of presentations in Chadron and Alliance. 

This presentation will discuss the keys to effective branding for local businesses, how to prosper your business during the pandemic and much more.

 Eagle radio account executives will be on hand to answer questions and discuss marketing plans after the presentation. 

All attendees receive free advertising.&nbsp;

Once again this year Eagle Communications will host marketing specialist Speed Marriot for a series of presentations in Chadron and Alliance. This presentation will discuss the keys to effective branding for local businesses, how to prosper your business during the pandemic and much more. Eagle radio account executives will be on hand to answer questions and discuss marketing plans after the presentation. All attendees receive free advertising.&nbsp; <figure>
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Eagle radio to hold marketing workshops in Chadron, Alliance

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem has insisted that South Dakota is excelling in its handling of the pandemic, even as the state surpassed 9,000 active coronavirus cases and matched an all-time high for deaths reported in one day. 

Noem has stuck to a “freedom-first” strategy, downplaying the danger of the virus while emphasizing the economy. 

The Republican governor told Fox News late Wednesday that the state is managing the pandemic and that its “economy is thriving.” 

Data produced by Johns Hopkins University shows South Dakota ranks second in the country in new infections per capita over the last two weeks.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem has insisted that South Dakota is excelling in its handling of the pandemic, even as the state surpassed 9,000 active coronavirus cases and matched an all-time high for deaths reported in one day. Noem has stuck to a “freedom-first” strategy, downplaying the danger of the virus while emphasizing the economy. The Republican governor told Fox News late Wednesday that the state is managing the pandemic and that its “economy is thriving.” Data produced by Johns Hopkins University shows South Dakota ranks second in the country in new infections per capita over the last two weeks.

Noem says South Dakota is doing 'good' as virus surges

PINE RIDGE, S.D. (AP) — The Oglala Sioux Tribe is locking down the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation on Friday, in response to a surging number of COVID-19 cases in the state.

 The lockdown begins at 10 p.m. and lasts until 6 a.m. Oct. 30.

 During that time, all non-critical travel is barred. 

The tribe said non-essential businesses should close to the public, and travel to non-essential work to or from the reservation should stop. 

The lockdown comes as the state surpassed 9,000 active coronavirus cases on Thursday and reported an all-time high of 973 new cases in one day. 

Thursday’s numbers also matched a record high of 14 deaths in one day.

PINE RIDGE, S.D. (AP) — The Oglala Sioux Tribe is locking down the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation on Friday, in response to a surging number of COVID-19 cases in the state. The lockdown begins at 10 p.m. and lasts until 6 a.m. Oct. 30. During that time, all non-critical travel is barred. The tribe said non-essential businesses should close to the public, and travel to non-essential work to or from the reservation should stop. The lockdown comes as the state surpassed 9,000 active coronavirus cases on Thursday and reported an all-time high of 973 new cases in one day. Thursday’s numbers also matched a record high of 14 deaths in one day.

Pine Ridge Reservation going into lockdown due to COVID-19

Thirty-three inmates and 10 employees have been confirmed COVID positive at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. There are no hospitalizations among inmates and many are not experiencing any symptoms (asymptomatic).

“The Scotts Bluff County Detention Center has been working closely with us and is following all the guidance provided by our state and local experts,” said Paulette Schnell, Scotts Bluff County Health Department Director.

“We have been working with University of Nebraska Medical Center infectious disease specialists to actively manage the COVID response in the facility. We are following their recommendation of frequent testing and re-testing of over 200 inmates and over 70 staff along with quarantine protocols,” stated Mark Overman, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff.

Overman added, “There will likely be more positive cases among inmates and staff.&nbsp;Our goal remains that symptoms are mild and that we slow the spread.”&nbsp;

Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.

For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle.&nbsp; Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

By PPHDThirty-three inmates and 10 employees have been confirmed COVID positive at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. There are no hospitalizations among inmates and many are not experiencing any symptoms (asymptomatic).“The Scotts Bluff County Detention Center has been working closely with us and is following all the guidance provided by our state and local experts,” said Paulette Schnell, Scotts Bluff County Health Department Director.“We have been working with University of Nebraska Medical Center infectious disease specialists to actively manage the COVID response in the facility. We are following their recommendation of frequent testing and re-testing of over 200 inmates and over 70 staff along with quarantine protocols,” stated Mark Overman, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff.Overman added, “There will likely be more positive cases among inmates and staff.&nbsp;Our goal remains that symptoms are mild and that we slow the spread.”&nbsp;Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle.&nbsp; Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

Scotts Bluff County Detention Center provides a COVID status update

WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.

The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.

Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.

The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.

“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.

The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.

Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.

Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.

So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603450089080.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.___

FDA approves the first drug for treating COVID-19

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska has set yet another record in the number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus as the total number of virus cases surged above 60,000. 

The state said 400 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Wednesday, up from the previous day’s record of 380. 

Health officials say they are working with hospitals across the state to make sure they have capacity to treat all those patients. 

The state has offered $40 million to help hospitals add capacity as needed. 

Nebraska reported 899 new virus cases and 11 new deaths Wednesday. 

The rate of new cases in the state remains fifth-highest in the nation.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska has set yet another record in the number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus as the total number of virus cases surged above 60,000. The state said 400 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 on Wednesday, up from the previous day’s record of 380. Health officials say they are working with hospitals across the state to make sure they have capacity to treat all those patients. The state has offered $40 million to help hospitals add capacity as needed. Nebraska reported 899 new virus cases and 11 new deaths Wednesday. The rate of new cases in the state remains fifth-highest in the nation.

Nebraska virus hospitalizations surge along with new cases

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized by COVID-19 has climbed to a new high in South Dakota as 332 people received hospital care. 

Health officials also reported three more deaths from the virus, along with 582 more cases.

 The state has ranked second in the country for new cases per capita in the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins researchers. 

There were 1,086 new cases per 100,000 people. 

The surge in cases has prompted the Department of Health to scale up its staff for contact tracing, activating National Guard members to work as contact tracing investigators.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized by COVID-19 has climbed to a new high in South Dakota as 332 people received hospital care. Health officials also reported three more deaths from the virus, along with 582 more cases. The state has ranked second in the country for new cases per capita in the last two weeks, according to Johns Hopkins researchers. There were 1,086 new cases per 100,000 people. The surge in cases has prompted the Department of Health to scale up its staff for contact tracing, activating National Guard members to work as contact tracing investigators.

South Dakota reports 332 COVID-19 hospitalizations

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.

For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.

The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.

The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.

It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.

The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.

An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.

The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.

In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.

“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.

The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.

The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591480312815.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.___

CDC redefines COVID-19 close contact, adds brief encounters

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Hospitals around the United States are starting to buckle from a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, with several states setting records for the number of people hospitalized and leaders scrambling to find extra beds and staff. 

New highs in cases have been reported in states big and small — from Idaho to Ohio — in recent days. With persistent resistance to statewide mask mandates, some states are relying on individuals to do the right thing to stem the tide of the virus.

 Other states are worried about the spike putting pressures on the health system and are making plans for ensuring those infected get the hospital care they need.

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Hospitals around the United States are starting to buckle from a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, with several states setting records for the number of people hospitalized and leaders scrambling to find extra beds and staff. New highs in cases have been reported in states big and small — from Idaho to Ohio — in recent days. With persistent resistance to statewide mask mandates, some states are relying on individuals to do the right thing to stem the tide of the virus. Other states are worried about the spike putting pressures on the health system and are making plans for ensuring those infected get the hospital care they need.

Virus spikes have officials looking to shore up hospitals

By Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Chief

Halloween is such a wonderful time of year and a special “treat” for our youth. This year we are experiencing a new risk. Due to the COVID-19 virus it would be suggested to avoid or alter most of our favorite “Trick-or-Treat” traditions. 

There could be several other safe alternatives such as having a family “candy hunt” at your house. Show off costumes to friends and family on video chat or have a virtual costume contest. 

The Chadron Police Department wishes everyone a happy, fun, and above all, safe Halloween. To ensure everyone who chooses to participate in our beloved trick or treat traditions have positive experiences, we suggest following these tips.

• Wait for others to leave a residence before approaching.

• When handing out treats, consider sitting outside and lining up treats on a table.

• Always escort your young children and carry a flashlight.

• Walk on the sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk along the left curb facing oncoming traffic.

• Instruct your children NEVER to enter any homes.

• Inspect all treats before allowing children to eat them.

• Dress your children in appropriate fitting costumes to avoid tripping and snagging.

• Consider placing reflective or glow in the dark tape on your children’s costumes.

• Avoid replica firearms, swords, or toys which can be mistaken for the real thing.

• Teach children their home and/or parent’s cellular phone number or 911 in case they get lost.

• Do not trick-or-treat by yourself. Stay in a group.

• Do not take short cuts, especially through alleys.

• Obey all traffic signals and look in all directions when crossing the street.

By Tim Lordino, Chadron Police ChiefHalloween is such a wonderful time of year and a special “treat” for our youth. This year we are experiencing a new risk. Due to the COVID-19 virus it would be suggested to avoid or alter most of our favorite “Trick-or-Treat” traditions. There could be several other safe alternatives such as having a family “candy hunt” at your house. Show off costumes to friends and family on video chat or have a virtual costume contest. The Chadron Police Department wishes everyone a happy, fun, and above all, safe Halloween. To ensure everyone who chooses to participate in our beloved trick or treat traditions have positive experiences, we suggest following these tips.• Avoid large gatherings or groups.• Wait for others to leave a residence before approaching.• When handing out treats, consider sitting outside and lining up treats on a table.PARENTS• Always escort your young children and carry a flashlight.• Walk on the sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk along the left curb facing oncoming traffic.• Instruct your children NEVER to enter any homes.• Stay in well-lit areas.• Inspect all treats before allowing children to eat them.• Dress your children in appropriate fitting costumes to avoid tripping and snagging.• Consider placing reflective or glow in the dark tape on your children’s costumes.• Avoid replica firearms, swords, or toys which can be mistaken for the real thing.• Teach children their home and/or parent’s cellular phone number or 911 in case they get lost.TRICK-OR-TREATERS• Do not trick-or-treat by yourself. Stay in a group.• Do not take short cuts, especially through alleys.• Obey all traffic signals and look in all directions when crossing the street.• Walk! Do not run to your intended destination and don’t dart in and out of cars or driveways.• If there are no side-walks stay as far left of the roadway as possible.• Always assume the driver does not see you.• Only trick-or-treat at homes with their porch light on.• Never approach a vehicle offering candy.HOMEOWNERS• Turn on your porch light so children know it is all right to visit your home.• If you are placing a Jack-O-Lantern on your porch, place a glow stick inside instead of a candle.• Hand out only commercially wrapped candy.• Never invite children into your home.• Keep pets away from children.• Maintain clear walkways that are free from obstruction.MOTORISTS• Drive slowly and cautiously.• Look for children on the street, crossing driveways, and darting in between parked vehicles.• Avoid using your cell phone while driving because it will cause a distraction• Play your music at a reasonable volume so you can listen for potential children crossing your path.• Never drink and drive.

Coronavirus Update