Police say no foul play is suspected after the body of a 15-year-old Grand Island teen was found inside a vehicle pulled from Eagle Scout Lake in Grand Island.

Authorities say the investigation is still ongoing, but foul play is not suspected after they recovered the body Friday.

Authorities estimate the teen died either late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.

By North Platte Post StaffPolice say no foul play is suspected after the body of a 15-year-old Grand Island teen was found inside a vehicle pulled from Eagle Scout Lake in Grand Island.Authorities say the investigation is still ongoing, but foul play is not suspected after they recovered the body Friday.Authorities estimate the teen died either late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.The teen's name has not been released.

Body of 15-year-old found in vehicle pulled from Grand Island lake

By&nbsp;Con Marshall, Chadron State College&nbsp; Dr. Rolland Dewing, a long-time Chadron State College professor and division chairman who also became well-known for his historical research and writing, died at the family home at Renton, Wash., on Saturday, Dec. 5, apparently due to heart failure. He was 86. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Dewing, his wife Delores and their four children moved to Chadron in 1969 after he was hired to teach history and become chairman of the Division of Social Science at the college. He was on the faculty 32 years and also was the division chairman the first 18 years.&nbsp; After retiring in 2001, the Dewings returned to Washington state where both had grown up.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dewing was perhaps best known as the author of the 414-page book, “Wounded Knee: The Meaning and Significance of the Second Incident.” It was initially published in 1985 and was reprinted twice. He estimated he spent 2,000 hours in an eight-month time frame working on the book, after using the Freedom of Information Act to obtain some 28,000 pages of material from the federal government. The information filled 22 cardboard boxes.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He also read countless newspaper accounts, studied court documents and conducted many interviews of those who had participated in the 1973 incident at Wounded Knee that involved the American Indian Movement and the FBI.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; From the book, Dewing spun off at least a dozen papers that he used to deliver talks at regional and national conferences and to write numerous articles that were printed in historical journals.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Soon after completing the Wounded Knee book, Dewing was the lead author in researching and writing Chadron’s centennial history that was published in 1986 when the community was celebrating its 100th&nbsp;anniversary.&nbsp; He also was the co-author of “A Pioneer’s Dream Come True,” a history of the Mirage Flats Irrigation Project, and wrote the Chadron Rotary Club’s history.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In addition, he was among the founders and participants of the Phi Alpha Theta History Fraternity’s weekly programs that took place for more than 25 years, serving as an outlet for numerous faculty, government officials and many others who had information to share.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mrs. Dewing also was busy during the couple’s time in Chadron, teaching music in the elementary schools for 24 years.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include their children Bridget, Dean and Jim, all graduates of Chadron High, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Their daughter Amy died in 2002.&nbsp; Because of the coronavirus, a memorial service is being delayed until the spring of 2021.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Con Marshall, Chadron State College&nbsp; Dr. Rolland Dewing, a long-time Chadron State College professor and division chairman who also became well-known for his historical research and writing, died at the family home at Renton, Wash., on Saturday, Dec. 5, apparently due to heart failure. He was 86. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Dewing, his wife Delores and their four children moved to Chadron in 1969 after he was hired to teach history and become chairman of the Division of Social Science at the college. He was on the faculty 32 years and also was the division chairman the first 18 years.&nbsp; After retiring in 2001, the Dewings returned to Washington state where both had grown up.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dewing was perhaps best known as the author of the 414-page book, “Wounded Knee: The Meaning and Significance of the Second Incident.” It was initially published in 1985 and was reprinted twice. He estimated he spent 2,000 hours in an eight-month time frame working on the book, after using the Freedom of Information Act to obtain some 28,000 pages of material from the federal government. The information filled 22 cardboard boxes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He also read countless newspaper accounts, studied court documents and conducted many interviews of those who had participated in the 1973 incident at Wounded Knee that involved the American Indian Movement and the FBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; From the book, Dewing spun off at least a dozen papers that he used to deliver talks at regional and national conferences and to write numerous articles that were printed in historical journals.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Soon after completing the Wounded Knee book, Dewing was the lead author in researching and writing Chadron’s centennial history that was published in 1986 when the community was celebrating its 100th&nbsp;anniversary.&nbsp; He also was the co-author of “A Pioneer’s Dream Come True,” a history of the Mirage Flats Irrigation Project, and wrote the Chadron Rotary Club’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In addition, he was among the founders and participants of the Phi Alpha Theta History Fraternity’s weekly programs that took place for more than 25 years, serving as an outlet for numerous faculty, government officials and many others who had information to share.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mrs. Dewing also was busy during the couple’s time in Chadron, teaching music in the elementary schools for 24 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include their children Bridget, Dean and Jim, all graduates of Chadron High, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Their daughter Amy died in 2002.&nbsp; Because of the coronavirus, a memorial service is being delayed until the spring of 2021.&nbsp;

Noted Chadron professor, author Rolland Dewing dies

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon says Wyoming won't be joining Republican-led states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit filed by Texas questioning election procedures in states where Democrat Joe Biden won in November. 

Gordon says the case could have “unintended consequences” that impinge on state sovereignty.

 The case seeks to invalidate Electoral College votes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. 

Seventeen other Republican-led states have asked the high court to hear the lawsuit. 

The U.S. Supreme Court has asked for responses by Thursday. Thirty-two seated and newly elected Wyoming legislators asked Gordon to join the case.

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon says Wyoming won't be joining Republican-led states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit filed by Texas questioning election procedures in states where Democrat Joe Biden won in November. Gordon says the case could have “unintended consequences” that impinge on state sovereignty. The case seeks to invalidate Electoral College votes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Seventeen other Republican-led states have asked the high court to hear the lawsuit. The U.S. Supreme Court has asked for responses by Thursday. Thirty-two seated and newly elected Wyoming legislators asked Gordon to join the case.

Wyoming won't join states backing Texas election lawsuit

LINCOLN, Neb. (NDOT)-Record high temperatures look to change to seasonal winter storms today through tomorrow. 

This weekend, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) crews are prepared for the latest round of winter weather which looks to impact much of the State. While the forecast could fluctuate, concerns are highest with the potential for heaviest snowfall during evening commuting hours. Workers and equipment will be out to clear highways and monitor changing conditions throughout the weekend. 

"This winter storm will affect a large portion of Nebraska, with the highest potential being in our eastern regions," said Interim NDOT Director Moe Jamshidi. "Our crews at NDOT remain ready to address winter storms as they arise. NDOT continues to work to maintain the safety and health of its teammates to ensure plows are out to clear the way for travelers. Drivers are encouraged to be informed about weather and road conditions before making the decision to travel, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours when pavement temperatures can quickly drop, causing slick and icy conditions. We urge caution if you must travel during this winter storm and always know before you go." 

Travelers are advised to be alert, be aware, and check the most up to date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The system is available at all times via phone by, online at www.511.Nebraska.gov, Nebraska 511’s smartphone app or by dialing 511. Travelers are also encouraged to utilize NDOT’s Plow Tracker at https://plows.nebraska.gov/index.html where the public can observe road conditions in real-time from the cabs of NDOT Snow Plows. Please note that weather conditions are often worse than they appear on camera. 

Should travel be absolutely necessary, NDOT reminds motorists to be prepared by keeping warm clothing, water, and food in their vehicle. Be sure to travel on well-established routes and notify someone when you are leaving for your destination. If traveling a distance, a winter weather survival kit is advised with additional basic items.

LINCOLN, Neb. (NDOT)-Record high temperatures look to change to seasonal winter storms today through tomorrow. This weekend, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) crews are prepared for the latest round of winter weather which looks to impact much of the State. While the forecast could fluctuate, concerns are highest with the potential for heaviest snowfall during evening commuting hours. Workers and equipment will be out to clear highways and monitor changing conditions throughout the weekend. "This winter storm will affect a large portion of Nebraska, with the highest potential being in our eastern regions," said Interim NDOT Director Moe Jamshidi. "Our crews at NDOT remain ready to address winter storms as they arise. NDOT continues to work to maintain the safety and health of its teammates to ensure plows are out to clear the way for travelers. Drivers are encouraged to be informed about weather and road conditions before making the decision to travel, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours when pavement temperatures can quickly drop, causing slick and icy conditions. We urge caution if you must travel during this winter storm and always know before you go." Travelers are advised to be alert, be aware, and check the most up to date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The system is available at all times via phone by, online at www.511.Nebraska.gov, Nebraska 511’s smartphone app or by dialing 511. Travelers are also encouraged to utilize NDOT’s Plow Tracker at https://plows.nebraska.gov/index.html where the public can observe road conditions in real-time from the cabs of NDOT Snow Plows. Please note that weather conditions are often worse than they appear on camera. Should travel be absolutely necessary, NDOT reminds motorists to be prepared by keeping warm clothing, water, and food in their vehicle. Be sure to travel on well-established routes and notify someone when you are leaving for your destination. If traveling a distance, a winter weather survival kit is advised with additional basic items.

NDOT urges caution while driving in wintery weather

The Chadron Police Department is continuing to investigate an armed robbery at a local business.&nbsp;

"Over the course of several days the Chadron Police Department with the assistance of the Nebraska State Patrol and the Oglala Sioux Tribe OST developed two 'people of interest' related to the armed robbery on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 5," said Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Chief.

On Dec. 8 the female person of interest, 33 year-old Ashley Two Two turned herself into the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office in Rushville.

&nbsp;Two Two was subsequently arrested for aiding and abetting an armed robbery. 

Two Two is currently being held at the Scotts Bluff County Jail on a bond of 10% of $250,000.

"The Chadron Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the male suspect in connection to the armed robbery at Cheema’s in Chadron," said Lordino. "If you have any information related to the male or female suspects in the photos below that entered the store around 4:08 p.m. please call the police department at (308) 432-0510 or you can leave an anonymous tip and may be qualified for a cash reward, by calling 1-800-422-1494 or by going online to Nebraska Crime Stoppers and submitting a tip; <a href="http://www.nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;">http://www.nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;</a>."

“We continue to ask for the public’s help in identifying the male suspect or anyone else involved in this crime," said Jarvis Wallage, Chadron Police Sgt. "We know the two suspects are local to the regional area and believe there are people in our regional area that know who he is. We believe that he has fled Nebraska and is no longer in the Chadron area. We are also looking for the firearm that was used in the robbery as well as any of the liquor taken from the store. U.S. currency was also taken along with several lighters and cigarettes."

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Chadron Police Department is continuing to investigate an armed robbery at a local business.&nbsp;"Over the course of several days the Chadron Police Department with the assistance of the Nebraska State Patrol and the Oglala Sioux Tribe OST developed two 'people of interest' related to the armed robbery on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 5," said Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Chief.On Dec. 8 the female person of interest, 33 year-old Ashley Two Two turned herself into the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office in Rushville.&nbsp;Two Two was subsequently arrested for aiding and abetting an armed robbery. Two Two is currently being held at the Scotts Bluff County Jail on a bond of 10% of $250,000."The Chadron Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the male suspect in connection to the armed robbery at Cheema’s in Chadron," said Lordino. "If you have any information related to the male or female suspects in the photos below that entered the store around 4:08 p.m. please call the police department at (308) 432-0510 or you can leave an anonymous tip and may be qualified for a cash reward, by calling 1-800-422-1494 or by going online to Nebraska Crime Stoppers and submitting a tip; <a href="http://www.nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;">http://www.nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;</a>."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607703229786.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607703260139.png" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607703280013.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607703300030.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We continue to ask for the public’s help in identifying the male suspect or anyone else involved in this crime," said Jarvis Wallage, Chadron Police Sgt. "We know the two suspects are local to the regional area and believe there are people in our regional area that know who he is. We believe that he has fled Nebraska and is no longer in the Chadron area. We are also looking for the firearm that was used in the robbery as well as any of the liquor taken from the store. U.S. currency was also taken along with several lighters and cigarettes."

CPD continues to investigate armed robbery, 1 person arrested

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of coronavirus patients in Nebraska’s hospitals appears to have stabilized for now even though the numbers are still elevated. 

State officials say 779 people were hospitalized with the virus as of Thursday evening, a number that has remained relatively unchanged over the last several days. 

The state reached a single-day high of 987 hospitalizations last month, raising the prospect of tougher social-distancing restrictions. 

Nebraska confirmed 1,850 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, a number that has been trending downward since the latest peak in the middle of November.

 The state reported 145,774 known cases and 1,329 deaths since the pandemic began.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of coronavirus patients in Nebraska’s hospitals appears to have stabilized for now even though the numbers are still elevated. State officials say 779 people were hospitalized with the virus as of Thursday evening, a number that has remained relatively unchanged over the last several days. The state reached a single-day high of 987 hospitalizations last month, raising the prospect of tougher social-distancing restrictions. Nebraska confirmed 1,850 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, a number that has been trending downward since the latest peak in the middle of November. The state reported 145,774 known cases and 1,329 deaths since the pandemic began.

Virus hospitalizations stable in Nebraska after sharp rise

NORTH PLATTE&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team have arrested a person wanted in connection with a homicide investigation in Red Willow County.

During the morning hours of Thursday, December 10, NSP SWAT was activated to effectuate the arrest of Travis Terwilliger, 45, of McCook. Terwilliger had an active felony warrant for use of a firearm to commit a felony, accessory to a felony, and terroristic threats.

With the assistance of the Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office and McCook Police Department, NSP SWAT was able to apprehend Terwilliger at his home at 304 East 2nd&nbsp;Street in McCook without incident. Terwilliger was lodged in Red Willow County Jail.

The Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office is the lead agency in the homicide investigation. The investigation began following an incident on October 8, 2020, in Red Willow County. All further media inquiries should be directed to the sheriff’s office.

NORTH PLATTE&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team have arrested a person wanted in connection with a homicide investigation in Red Willow County.During the morning hours of Thursday, December 10, NSP SWAT was activated to effectuate the arrest of Travis Terwilliger, 45, of McCook. Terwilliger had an active felony warrant for use of a firearm to commit a felony, accessory to a felony, and terroristic threats.With the assistance of the Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office and McCook Police Department, NSP SWAT was able to apprehend Terwilliger at his home at 304 East 2nd&nbsp;Street in McCook without incident. Terwilliger was lodged in Red Willow County Jail.The Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office is the lead agency in the homicide investigation. The investigation began following an incident on October 8, 2020, in Red Willow County. All further media inquiries should be directed to the sheriff’s office.

NSP SWAT makes arrest in homicide investigation

Thirteen additional COVID-related deaths in the Panhandle are being reported. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 95. The deaths are being announced as follows:

“We share our heartfelt sympathies with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents. We wish you peace and comfort especially during this holiday season,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

As we are enduring months of the COVID pandemic, we all may know someone that experienced the virus through mild, moderate, or severe symptoms, hospitalization, or had a friend or loved one pass from it. On a busy Scottsbluff street, fastened to a tree holds the story of a life lost to COVID. It states, “COVID killed John, my brother, please wear a mask.”

Each person’s story is unique and we remind our fellow Panhandle residents why this underscores the importance of dealing more kindly with one another and remaining stringent with COVID prevention.

Unified Command confirms 263 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, December 10. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHD<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607649087434.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy:&nbsp;Katie Bradshaw, Scottsbluff, NE&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy:&nbsp;Katie Bradshaw, Scottsbluff, NE&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Thirteen additional COVID-related deaths in the Panhandle are being reported. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 95. The deaths are being announced as follows:<ul>
 <li>Cheyenne County</li><li>Two males in their 60s</li><li>Kimball County</li><li>Male in his 80s</li><li>Morrill County</li><li>Female in her 80s</li><li>Two males: one in his 70s &amp; one in his 80s</li><li>Scotts Bluff County</li><li>Four females: one in her 70s, two in their 80s, &amp; one in her 90s</li><li>Two males: one in his 60s &amp; one in his 80s</li><li>Sheridan County</li><li>Male in his 80s</li>
 </ul>“We share our heartfelt sympathies with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents. We wish you peace and comfort especially during this holiday season,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.As we are enduring months of the COVID pandemic, we all may know someone that experienced the virus through mild, moderate, or severe symptoms, hospitalization, or had a friend or loved one pass from it. On a busy Scottsbluff street, fastened to a tree holds the story of a life lost to COVID. It states, “COVID killed John, my brother, please wear a mask.”Each person’s story is unique and we remind our fellow Panhandle residents why this underscores the importance of dealing more kindly with one another and remaining stringent with COVID prevention.Unified Command confirms 263 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, December 10. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607649044609.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2-December 10, 2020<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 28,069</li><li>Positive: 6,790</li><li>Recovered: 5,108</li><li>Active Cases: 1,587</li><li>Last Week’s Positivity Rate: 58.9%</li><li>Deaths: 95</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 52</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 411</li><li>Last week’s cases: 501</li><li>Doubling time (November 5-December 8): 33 days</li>
 </ul>

PPHD: 13 more virus related deaths in the Panhandle

ASK BOB S. BESTOS: Christmas Traditions

One person was transported to multiple hospitals after a single-vehicle accident in Box Butte County.&nbsp;

On Dec. 8 at approximately 3:3o a.m. a person driving a newer Ford F-150 truck was involved in a single-vehicle accident that caught fire near the Berea turn-off on Highway 2.&nbsp;

The driver of the vehicle was pulled out of the burning truck by a person traveling by.&nbsp;

The driver was then transported to Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance and later to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.&nbsp;

"It's still under investigation at this point," said Ryan Dannar, Box Butte County Deputy. "My goal or my hope after I do conclude my investigation, I'm planning on doing a certificate of some life saving award of some kind for this good&nbsp;samaritan. The guy&nbsp;definitely saved a life."

No further information was released by the Box Butte County Sheriff's Office at this time.&nbsp;

This accident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostOne person was transported to multiple hospitals after a single-vehicle accident in Box Butte County.&nbsp;On Dec. 8 at approximately 3:3o a.m. a person driving a newer Ford F-150 truck was involved in a single-vehicle accident that caught fire near the Berea turn-off on Highway 2.&nbsp;The driver of the vehicle was pulled out of the burning truck by a person traveling by.&nbsp;The driver was then transported to Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance and later to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.&nbsp;"It's still under investigation at this point," said Ryan Dannar, Box Butte County Deputy. "My goal or my hope after I do conclude my investigation, I'm planning on doing a certificate of some life saving award of some kind for this good&nbsp;samaritan. The guy&nbsp;definitely saved a life."No further information was released by the Box Butte County Sheriff's Office at this time.&nbsp;This accident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

1 person transported to multiple hospitals after a single-vehicle accident

<figure>
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 <figcaption>Vaccine truths PPHD.png</figcaption>
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PPHD: The truth about COVID vaccine myths

When life throws a pandemic, learn to play the ukulele and ice skate.&nbsp;At least, that has been the message to Gordon-Rushville Public School (GRPS) students during the COVID pandemic. School administration allowed staff to offer a middle school ukulele and guitar class as a safer alternative to traditional band with wind and brass instruments.

“It’s so fun watching and listening to the kids learn to play. My favorite is peeking in while they are playing and singing along to a mask-muffled version of ‘Fishing in the Dark’,” shared Lori Liggett, GRPS Superintendent.

They are finalizing the ice-skating rink on the practice field just west of the high school and anticipate kiddos will be able to use it for physical education classes when they start back from the holiday break as they need three consecutive nights of below zero weather to harden the surface. The outdoors will offer a safer alternative to indoor physical education classes, a new skill to learn, and fresh air during the school day.

GRPS has taken a strong stance on their COVID prevention strategies since the start of school this fall, and it has proven effective. Liggett shared how devastating it was to have to close the school in the spring and they wanted to take every necessary precaution to keep kids in school and learning for the many mental, social, and physical benefits school provides.

The school has partnered with Panhandle Public Health District and the Nebraska Department of Education’s Healthy Schools program to increase their environment for student and staff wellness. Grow Towers create fresh, healthy salad ingredients, free breakfast and lunch programs provide all students the necessary nutrition for healthy, growing bodies and minds, brain-boosting activity “breaks” stimulate and engage their minds throughout the day, and staff have access to a trained counselor for virtual group sessions to keep their mental wellness in-check.

Additionally, they have worked intently with PPHD, the hospital, the city, and other community members to increase active living in the community. Safer, connected streets and sidewalks are key to students walking or biking to-and-from school and around the community.

So, for now, as the world continues forward with the chaos of trying to traverse one of the most uncertain times we have ever collectively experienced, GRPS students will be making the most of it with ice skating and ukuleles and quite possibly the most important life lesson.

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 PPHDWhen life throws a pandemic, learn to play the ukulele and ice skate.&nbsp;At least, that has been the message to Gordon-Rushville Public School (GRPS) students during the COVID pandemic. School administration allowed staff to offer a middle school ukulele and guitar class as a safer alternative to traditional band with wind and brass instruments.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607621951564.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s so fun watching and listening to the kids learn to play. My favorite is peeking in while they are playing and singing along to a mask-muffled version of ‘Fishing in the Dark’,” shared Lori Liggett, GRPS Superintendent.They are finalizing the ice-skating rink on the practice field just west of the high school and anticipate kiddos will be able to use it for physical education classes when they start back from the holiday break as they need three consecutive nights of below zero weather to harden the surface. The outdoors will offer a safer alternative to indoor physical education classes, a new skill to learn, and fresh air during the school day.GRPS has taken a strong stance on their COVID prevention strategies since the start of school this fall, and it has proven effective. Liggett shared how devastating it was to have to close the school in the spring and they wanted to take every necessary precaution to keep kids in school and learning for the many mental, social, and physical benefits school provides.The school has partnered with Panhandle Public Health District and the Nebraska Department of Education’s Healthy Schools program to increase their environment for student and staff wellness. Grow Towers create fresh, healthy salad ingredients, free breakfast and lunch programs provide all students the necessary nutrition for healthy, growing bodies and minds, brain-boosting activity “breaks” stimulate and engage their minds throughout the day, and staff have access to a trained counselor for virtual group sessions to keep their mental wellness in-check.Additionally, they have worked intently with PPHD, the hospital, the city, and other community members to increase active living in the community. Safer, connected streets and sidewalks are key to students walking or biking to-and-from school and around the community.So, for now, as the world continues forward with the chaos of trying to traverse one of the most uncertain times we have ever collectively experienced, GRPS students will be making the most of it with ice skating and ukuleles and quite possibly the most important life lesson.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>.

Gordon-Rushville Public Schools offer ukulele, guitar class as safe alternative to band

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A group of 32 Wyoming lawmakers and newly elected lawmakers have signed a letter to Republican Gov. Mark Gordon asking him to join other Republican-led states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear attacking election procedures where Democrat Joe Biden won in the November election.

 The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Gordon responded by asking Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill to look into the case. 

The case filed in Texas seeks to invalidate Electoral College votes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. 

Seventeen other Republican-led states asked the high court to hear the lawsuit. 

The U.S. Supreme Court has asked for responses by Thursday.

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A group of 32 Wyoming lawmakers and newly elected lawmakers have signed a letter to Republican Gov. Mark Gordon asking him to join other Republican-led states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear attacking election procedures where Democrat Joe Biden won in the November election. The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Gordon responded by asking Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill to look into the case. The case filed in Texas seeks to invalidate Electoral College votes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Seventeen other Republican-led states asked the high court to hear the lawsuit. The U.S. Supreme Court has asked for responses by Thursday.

Wyoming governor asked to join lawsuit against Biden victory

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming Department of Health official who falsely described the coronavirus and development of vaccines against it as a communist plot has resigned. 

Igor Shepherd made the remarks at an event in Colorado last month and they undermined Wyoming’s public health efforts to contain the coronavirus. 

A health department spokeswoman said Wednesday that Shepherd submitted his resignation Tuesday and that department officials accepted it the same day. 

Shepherd couldn’t be reached for comment. 

A listed phone number for him did not work and as of Wednesday he had not returned social media and work phone messages left last Friday.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming Department of Health official who falsely described the coronavirus and development of vaccines against it as a communist plot has resigned. Igor Shepherd made the remarks at an event in Colorado last month and they undermined Wyoming’s public health efforts to contain the coronavirus. A health department spokeswoman said Wednesday that Shepherd submitted his resignation Tuesday and that department officials accepted it the same day. Shepherd couldn’t be reached for comment. A listed phone number for him did not work and as of Wednesday he had not returned social media and work phone messages left last Friday.

Wyoming official quits after calling COVID-19 communist plot

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts hosted a press conference at the State Capitol to discuss the State’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The Governor reported that coronavirus hospitalizations are now below 20% of staffed hospital beds in Nebraska.&nbsp; The State continues to be in the “orange” phase of its coronavirus response plan.&nbsp; If coronavirus hospitalizations are below the 20% threshold for seven days (rolling average), Nebraska will move to the “yellow” phase and loosen restrictions in the State’s Directed Health Measures. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Governor also announced that the State has updated its coronavirus vaccination plan to clarify the groups prioritized for immunization.&nbsp; Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Incident Commander Angie Ling joined the Governor to overview the latest version of the plan.&nbsp; She also called on Nebraskans to get their annual flu shot as a way to help hospitals preserve capacity to care for coronavirus patients.

Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Nebraskans are eligible for testing through Test Nebraska.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I encourage Nebraskans to sign up, take the short health assessment, and schedule a time to get tested.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have now delivered over a half-million (505,000) test results through Test Nebraska.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to work to efficiently turn around test results. &nbsp;Recently, Test Nebraska has been turning around tests between 24-48 hours from swab to patient result.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Test Nebraska site in Lincoln is expanding capacity from 1,100 tests per day to 1,500 tests a day.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2Fen&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C1d71bae873bf4cdc80de08d89c8fe587%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637431489137157097%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=Y5WhST%2Bd4erqIGDoxbYz%2BHxzhAYS7IAAgKx9b2tbquY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;for the latest schedule and locations.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week.&nbsp; It’s a nationwide call to action to encourage those who have not already done so to get their annual flu shot.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older and is an effective was to decrease flu illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A flu vaccination this season can also help reduce the burden on healthcare systems as they continue to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wearing a mask, social distancing, and hand hygiene will also help protect you from respiratory illness, flu, and COVID-19.&nbsp; However, the best way to prevent flu illness is getting your annual flu vaccine.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There are multiple locations to receive your flu vaccine each year including your doctor’s office, local health departments, and pharmacies. &nbsp;If you are having a hard time finding a location, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvaccinefinder.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C1d71bae873bf4cdc80de08d89c8fe587%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637431489137167049%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=dBkJaIJxMBATAHZolkJ%2BjFoauvSOPx34U7%2FcmFQTtw4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">vaccinefinder.org</a>.

Angie Ling: Coronavirus Vaccination

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have made changes to the State of Nebraska’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan to ensure we follow recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The updated vaccination plan is posted on the DHHS website and is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;Phases will look like this:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;1A: Healthcare personnel and long-term care facility residents and staff.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;1B: First responders; staff at correctional facilities; and key personnel working in education, food/agriculture, utilities, and transportation.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;1C: Those 65 years and older, vulnerable populations, and persons in congregate living settings.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We submitted orders last week for the first allocation of the Pfizer vaccine, and we anticipate receiving them next week. &nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to security considerations, we will not give out the specific locations of the allocations.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Pfizer vaccine doses will go to 8 hospitals, who will support an additional 9 hospital systems with this initial product. &nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have asked the hospitals to prioritize within their systems to vaccinate those caring for coronavirus patients day in and day out. &nbsp;Examples would include those persons working in emergency departments, COVID care units, and local EMS.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We will also activate the long-term care federal pharmacy program. &nbsp;This program has allowed long-term care facilities to align with a pharmacy who will complete their staff and resident vaccinations. &nbsp;There are over 400 long-term care facilities using this program. &nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Facilities that did not select a pharmacy will work with local health departments to get their vaccinations.

Video from today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fyz2lth0lvczzwey%2FGov.%2520Pres%2520Conf%252012.09.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C1d71bae873bf4cdc80de08d89c8fe587%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637431489137167049%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=lX6BWfxN%2FcAlsJUt64VewWNh55hTvUl4ZXjXzmCTfDc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts hosted a press conference at the State Capitol to discuss the State’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; The Governor reported that coronavirus hospitalizations are now below 20% of staffed hospital beds in Nebraska.&nbsp; The State continues to be in the “orange” phase of its coronavirus response plan.&nbsp; If coronavirus hospitalizations are below the 20% threshold for seven days (rolling average), Nebraska will move to the “yellow” phase and loosen restrictions in the State’s Directed Health Measures. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Governor also announced that the State has updated its coronavirus vaccination plan to clarify the groups prioritized for immunization.&nbsp; Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Incident Commander Angie Ling joined the Governor to overview the latest version of the plan.&nbsp; She also called on Nebraskans to get their annual flu shot as a way to help hospitals preserve capacity to care for coronavirus patients.Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Nebraskans are eligible for testing through Test Nebraska.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I encourage Nebraskans to sign up, take the short health assessment, and schedule a time to get tested.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have now delivered over a half-million (505,000) test results through Test Nebraska.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to work to efficiently turn around test results. &nbsp;Recently, Test Nebraska has been turning around tests between 24-48 hours from swab to patient result.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Test Nebraska site in Lincoln is expanding capacity from 1,100 tests per day to 1,500 tests a day.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2Fen&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C1d71bae873bf4cdc80de08d89c8fe587%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637431489137157097%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=Y5WhST%2Bd4erqIGDoxbYz%2BHxzhAYS7IAAgKx9b2tbquY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;for the latest schedule and locations.Angie Ling: Flu Vaccination·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week.&nbsp; It’s a nationwide call to action to encourage those who have not already done so to get their annual flu shot.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older and is an effective was to decrease flu illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A flu vaccination this season can also help reduce the burden on healthcare systems as they continue to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wearing a mask, social distancing, and hand hygiene will also help protect you from respiratory illness, flu, and COVID-19.&nbsp; However, the best way to prevent flu illness is getting your annual flu vaccine.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There are multiple locations to receive your flu vaccine each year including your doctor’s office, local health departments, and pharmacies. &nbsp;If you are having a hard time finding a location, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvaccinefinder.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C1d71bae873bf4cdc80de08d89c8fe587%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637431489137167049%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=dBkJaIJxMBATAHZolkJ%2BjFoauvSOPx34U7%2FcmFQTtw4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">vaccinefinder.org</a>.Angie Ling: Coronavirus Vaccination·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have made changes to the State of Nebraska’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan to ensure we follow recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The updated vaccination plan is posted on the DHHS website and is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;Phases will look like this:o&nbsp;&nbsp;1A: Healthcare personnel and long-term care facility residents and staff.o&nbsp;&nbsp;1B: First responders; staff at correctional facilities; and key personnel working in education, food/agriculture, utilities, and transportation.o&nbsp;&nbsp;1C: Those 65 years and older, vulnerable populations, and persons in congregate living settings.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We submitted orders last week for the first allocation of the Pfizer vaccine, and we anticipate receiving them next week. &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to security considerations, we will not give out the specific locations of the allocations.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Pfizer vaccine doses will go to 8 hospitals, who will support an additional 9 hospital systems with this initial product. &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have asked the hospitals to prioritize within their systems to vaccinate those caring for coronavirus patients day in and day out. &nbsp;Examples would include those persons working in emergency departments, COVID care units, and local EMS.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We will also activate the long-term care federal pharmacy program. &nbsp;This program has allowed long-term care facilities to align with a pharmacy who will complete their staff and resident vaccinations. &nbsp;There are over 400 long-term care facilities using this program. &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Facilities that did not select a pharmacy will work with local health departments to get their vaccinations.Video from today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fyz2lth0lvczzwey%2FGov.%2520Pres%2520Conf%252012.09.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C1d71bae873bf4cdc80de08d89c8fe587%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637431489137167049%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=lX6BWfxN%2FcAlsJUt64VewWNh55hTvUl4ZXjXzmCTfDc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts, DHHS provide updates on coronavirus vaccination plan

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska prisoner in his 60s has died at a Lincoln hospital after testing positive for the coronavirus in mid-November. 

Corrections officials say the inmate had underlying medical conditions, and the exact cause of death hasn’t been confirmed.

 Officials did not release the inmate’s identity but said he was serving time for a robbery conviction in Seward County. 

A grand jury will investigate the death, as is normal procedures. Nebraska officials reported 781 coronavirus patients who were hospitalized in the state as of Wednesday evening, a decline from last month’s record highs but still far more than the number earlier this year.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska prisoner in his 60s has died at a Lincoln hospital after testing positive for the coronavirus in mid-November. Corrections officials say the inmate had underlying medical conditions, and the exact cause of death hasn’t been confirmed. Officials did not release the inmate’s identity but said he was serving time for a robbery conviction in Seward County. A grand jury will investigate the death, as is normal procedures. Nebraska officials reported 781 coronavirus patients who were hospitalized in the state as of Wednesday evening, a decline from last month’s record highs but still far more than the number earlier this year.

Nebraska inmate dies at hospital after catching coronavirus

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) — Authorities in southwestern Nebraska say a man has died after being hit and pinned by a large hay bale on a Dawson County feedlot. 

Radio station KRVN reports that the accident happened Tuesday afternoon on Darr Feedlot near Cozad.

 The Dawson County Sheriff's Office says 65-year-old Vergil Heyer, of Ainsworth, was unstrapping hay bales from a semitrailer when the bales fell off the truck, hitting Heyer. 

Officials say one of the bales landed on top of Heyer and pinned him. 

Workers at the feedlot moved the hay bale off him and performed CPR, but Heyer was pronounced dead at the scene.

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) — Authorities in southwestern Nebraska say a man has died after being hit and pinned by a large hay bale on a Dawson County feedlot. Radio station KRVN reports that the accident happened Tuesday afternoon on Darr Feedlot near Cozad. The Dawson County Sheriff's Office says 65-year-old Vergil Heyer, of Ainsworth, was unstrapping hay bales from a semitrailer when the bales fell off the truck, hitting Heyer. Officials say one of the bales landed on top of Heyer and pinned him. Workers at the feedlot moved the hay bale off him and performed CPR, but Heyer was pronounced dead at the scene.

Man killed at southwestern Nebraska feedlot by hay bale

Police Chief E. John Kiss has retired from the City of Alliance after 31 years of dedication to the community. 

John, originally a native of Miami, Florida, and a graduate of Killian Senior High, joined the United States Air Force after graduation in 1972. 

Kiss was stationed in Florida for 2 years and then served 2 years in Hawaii where he earned an associate’s degree from the University of Hawaii. His final 2 years of Air Force service ended at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, South Dakota in 1978.

Kiss earned his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chadron State College while serving as a patrol officer for the City of Alliance. Additionally, John graduated from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island, Nebraska in 1980 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Quantico, Virginia in 1994.

During his law enforcement career with the City of Alliance he served as a patrol officer, investigator and sergeant.

 In 1986 John relocated to Garden City, Kansas where he served their community as a patrol officer, criminal investigator, internal affairs sergeant and Lieutenant in Operations. He returned to Alliance in 1996 as the Lieutenant and Operations Commander, until he replaced Robert Jatczak in 1999 as Chief of Police.

Throughout his long and distinguished career Chief Kiss has been committed to community policing concepts. Examples of this are his creation of a Police Citizen Advisory Board and his membership on the Latino Advisory Board which exemplify his commitment to promoting positive personal contact between members of law enforcement and the public. 

Chief Kiss was also a valued and well-respected regional leader, thanks to his longtime involvement in the Western Nebraska Intelligence and Narcotics Task Force. His implementation of the police departmental operations manual was widely adopted by several surrounding panhandle police agencies.

John and his wife Lynnette have six children and 17 grandchildren. He is looking forward to a retirement filled with Husker games, traveling, and a new past time of learning to play the piano and spending time with his family.

Please join the department and City of Alliance in wishing him a happy retirement!

Due to COVID-19 a community retirement event will not be held. In lieu of this, please send cards to:

E. John Kiss 1212 Hammond Lane Alliance, NE 69301

Police Chief E. John Kiss has retired from the City of Alliance after 31 years of dedication to the community. John, originally a native of Miami, Florida, and a graduate of Killian Senior High, joined the United States Air Force after graduation in 1972. Kiss was stationed in Florida for 2 years and then served 2 years in Hawaii where he earned an associate’s degree from the University of Hawaii. His final 2 years of Air Force service ended at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, South Dakota in 1978.Kiss earned his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chadron State College while serving as a patrol officer for the City of Alliance. Additionally, John graduated from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island, Nebraska in 1980 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Quantico, Virginia in 1994.During his law enforcement career with the City of Alliance he served as a patrol officer, investigator and sergeant. In 1986 John relocated to Garden City, Kansas where he served their community as a patrol officer, criminal investigator, internal affairs sergeant and Lieutenant in Operations. He returned to Alliance in 1996 as the Lieutenant and Operations Commander, until he replaced Robert Jatczak in 1999 as Chief of Police.Throughout his long and distinguished career Chief Kiss has been committed to community policing concepts. Examples of this are his creation of a Police Citizen Advisory Board and his membership on the Latino Advisory Board which exemplify his commitment to promoting positive personal contact between members of law enforcement and the public. Chief Kiss was also a valued and well-respected regional leader, thanks to his longtime involvement in the Western Nebraska Intelligence and Narcotics Task Force. His implementation of the police departmental operations manual was widely adopted by several surrounding panhandle police agencies.John and his wife Lynnette have six children and 17 grandchildren. He is looking forward to a retirement filled with Husker games, traveling, and a new past time of learning to play the piano and spending time with his family.Please join the department and City of Alliance in wishing him a happy retirement!Due to COVID-19 a community retirement event will not be held. In lieu of this, please send cards to:E. John Kiss 1212 Hammond Lane Alliance, NE 69301

Alliance Police Chief Kiss retires 

From the <a href="https://news.unl.edu/newsrooms/today/article/university-readies-for-mandatory-covid-19-testing/">UNL Newsroom</a>&nbsp;

By&nbsp;<a href="https://news.unl.edu/written-by/troy-fedderson-university-communication/">Troy Fedderson | University Communication</a>

To offer in-person instruction in the spring, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is planning a multi-layered, mandatory&nbsp;COVID-19 testing program for students, faculty and&nbsp;staff.

<a href="https://www.unl.edu/chancellor/enhanced-covid-safety-measures-for-spring-2021">Announced Dec. 9</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://covid19.unl.edu/spring-testing">saliva-based diagnostic testing program</a>&nbsp;will be managed by the university through lab space in the Veterinary Diagnostic Center. It will offer multiple collection sites on City, East and Nebraska Innovation campuses; expected 24-hour return time on results; and a smartphone app that will permit access to campus&nbsp;buildings.

The free testing program follows recommendations made by the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department and is supported by the executive team of the Association of Students of the University of&nbsp;Nebraska.

Chancellor Ronnie Green said the mandatory testing and related protocols will help the university build upon success realized while offering in-person instruction in the&nbsp;fall.

“We remain committed to safely providing in-person educational experiences and to continuing our critical research and creative activity, as well as our vital outreach across Nebraska,” Green said. “These additional measures will help make our spring semester even more safe and&nbsp;successful.”

The testing program is required for faculty and staff who plan to come physically to the Lincoln campuses; students attending in-person classes; all students living in Lincoln or Lancaster County, including those who are taking only online courses; and students, faculty and staff in the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Lincoln-based nursing and dentistry&nbsp;program.

University employees not physically coming to the Lincoln campuses are not required to participate in the mandatory testing program. However, they must get tested within two weeks, ideally two to three days before, accessing any campus&nbsp;facility.

Exemptions will be available to those who have tested positive for&nbsp;COVID-19 in the previous 90 days and to those who have a substantiated medical reason for an&nbsp;exemption.

All members of the campus community will be tested prior to the start of classes on Jan. 25 and every two weeks thereafter. Anyone who is required to take part in the testing program but fails to follow protocols will not have access to campus buildings and may face disciplinary&nbsp;action.

The university is working with Big Ten colleagues at the University of Illinois to finalize a smartphone app that will connect to individual testing results. Students, faculty and staff will use the app (or a printable option) to show a negative test result to wellness attendants stationed at campus building entrances. The wellness attendants will not grant access to any student, faculty and staff who are unable to show a current test result or those who test positive for the&nbsp;virus.

Students will also be required to complete the Spring 2021 Cornhusker Commitment, which is an affirmative agreement to adhere to the university’s testing program and health/safety measures. The updated&nbsp;<a href="https://covid19.unl.edu/we-are-cornhusker-committed">Cornhusker Commitment is available for review online</a>&nbsp;and will be available in MyRED for completion in&nbsp;January.

University leaders are also seeking members of the campus community who could temporarily redeploy and help staff testing sites, diagnostic center and conduct contact&nbsp;tracing.

“Standing up this capability is a major undertaking, and we need immediate staffing help,” Green said. “These are temporary assignments ranging from one to more than four months depending on the role and availability of the&nbsp;individual.”

Employees must get supervisory permission before pursuing a redeployment to assist with the testing program. Some positions are open to student workers. Learn more about the work and positions&nbsp;available.

Additional details about the spring semester’s testing program and app will be announced in January. Available information, including a list of frequently asked questions, is available on the university’s&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;website.

The recent Thanksgiving holiday gave us many reasons to be thankful. We successfully finished a fall semester with students on campus and in-person education, and our UNL community largely responded admirably to the restrictions and extra measures needed to keep our campus safe.

Yet, we can always improve. As the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified in Nebraska and globally, and as the colder weather forces us more indoors, we have thought about how to make our campus even safer next Spring when our students return. We will be instituting several new measures in January as we adapt to these growing challenges, including required, less invasive and faster testing for those in our campus community and an enhanced Cornhusker Commitment. Throughout the pandemic, we have had a close working partnership with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department. These additional steps are based on their recommendations, with the support of our Association of Students of the University of Nebraska (ASUN) executive team.

With the incredible support of UNL’s Veterinary Diagnostic Center, we will be able to provide saliva-based diagnostic testing on campus in the spring, with an expected 24-hour turn-around for positive or negative results.

Standing up this capability is a major undertaking, and we need immediate help staffing it. We are looking for members of our campus community who would be able to temporarily redeploy to help staff the testing sites, diagnostic center and conduct contract tracing. These temporary re-assignments range from one-month to more than four months, depending on the role and availability of the individual. If you are interested and have capacity to redeploy on a temporary basis next spring, please visit this&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/springupdate_12-9-2020" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the available roles and to apply.

Mandatory Testing / New Campus COVID App

With this new capability for simpler, rapid diagnostic testing – we will be instituting free, mandatory testing in the Spring semester for our campus community.

All UNL students residing in Lancaster County during the Spring semester will be required to be tested every two weeks. Any students residing outside Lancaster County who physically come to campus in the Spring semester will also be required to be tested every two weeks. All students will be required to be tested prior to moving into any campus housing or prior to classes commencing on January 25, 2021. Students will be receiving full information on these testing requirements and how to sign up for their initial tests in early January.

Faculty and staff who are regularly on campus will also be required to be tested every two weeks. Faculty and staff who are primarily working remotely and come to campus infrequently will be required to be tested within the two weeks prior to visiting campus, preferably 2-3 days in advance. We are working to determine the capability to provide enhanced testing to any UNL faculty and staff outside of Lancaster County; for now, those employees should follow the recommended testing guidance of the local health departments. If coming to Lincoln, those employees should be tested in advance.

We are also working with our Big Ten colleagues at the University of Illinois-UC for a unique campus app that will incorporate the results of the saliva tests to provide members of the campus community with a color-coded status based on negative or positive test results. A “go” status will be required to enter any UNL buildings on City, East or Nebraska Innovation Campuses. Alternatives for demonstrating a negative test and gaining access to campus buildings will be made available for any students, faculty or staff who do not own a smartphone. Information about the new app and how to download will be provided in early January.

Students, faculty and staff are exempt from testing if they can show documentation of a positive COVID-19 test in the prior 90 days, or a documentation from a health care provider that substantiates a medical reason for an exemption. Those wishing to seek an exemption will be able to do so through a portal that will soon be available on our&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/springupdate02_12-9-2020" target="_blank">COVID-19 website</a>.

In addition to the mandatory saliva-based testing, we will continue to have symptomatic and on-demand testing available for anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19, who have been identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19 or who feel the need to be tested prior to their next scheduled saliva test. In the Spring, even if you recently had a negative saliva test, we ask anyone demonstrating symptoms to be tested at the TestNebraska site.

Enhanced Spring 2021 Cornhusker Commitment

As we expand our testing, we are also enhancing the Spring 2021 Cornhusker Commitment. For the Spring semester, all students will be required to sign an affirmative agreement in MyRed agreeing to adhere to these expanded health and safety measures. Each student will need to commit to being tested as needed and to practicing the necessary safety measures of wearing masks indoors or when social distancing is not possible outdoors, avoiding large crowds and social gatherings, hand washing, and other proper hygiene. Students will acknowledge that a failure to adhere to these safety precautions could jeopardize their ability to be on campus.

More information on the new safety measures being taken for our Spring 2021 semester is available on our UNL&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/springupdate03_12-9-2020" target="_blank">COVID-19 website</a>. We remain committed to safely providing in-person educational experiences and to continuing our critical research and creative activity, as well as our vital outreach across Nebraska. These additional measures will help make our Spring semester even more safe and successful.

Ronnie D. Green, Ph.D. Chancellor&nbsp;

From the <a href="https://news.unl.edu/newsrooms/today/article/university-readies-for-mandatory-covid-19-testing/">UNL Newsroom</a>&nbsp; By&nbsp;<a href="https://news.unl.edu/written-by/troy-fedderson-university-communication/">Troy Fedderson | University Communication</a>To offer in-person instruction in the spring, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is planning a multi-layered, mandatory&nbsp;COVID-19 testing program for students, faculty and&nbsp;staff.<a href="https://www.unl.edu/chancellor/enhanced-covid-safety-measures-for-spring-2021">Announced Dec. 9</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://covid19.unl.edu/spring-testing">saliva-based diagnostic testing program</a>&nbsp;will be managed by the university through lab space in the Veterinary Diagnostic Center. It will offer multiple collection sites on City, East and Nebraska Innovation campuses; expected 24-hour return time on results; and a smartphone app that will permit access to campus&nbsp;buildings.The free testing program follows recommendations made by the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department and is supported by the executive team of the Association of Students of the University of&nbsp;Nebraska.<figure>
 <img src="https://news.unl.edu/sites/default/files/styles/meta/public/ronnie%20green.jpg?itok=fg593ICg" alt="Green" />
 <figcaption>Green</figcaption>
 </figure>Chancellor Ronnie Green said the mandatory testing and related protocols will help the university build upon success realized while offering in-person instruction in the&nbsp;fall.“We remain committed to safely providing in-person educational experiences and to continuing our critical research and creative activity, as well as our vital outreach across Nebraska,” Green said. “These additional measures will help make our spring semester even more safe and&nbsp;successful.”The testing program is required for faculty and staff who plan to come physically to the Lincoln campuses; students attending in-person classes; all students living in Lincoln or Lancaster County, including those who are taking only online courses; and students, faculty and staff in the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Lincoln-based nursing and dentistry&nbsp;program.University employees not physically coming to the Lincoln campuses are not required to participate in the mandatory testing program. However, they must get tested within two weeks, ideally two to three days before, accessing any campus&nbsp;facility.Exemptions will be available to those who have tested positive for&nbsp;COVID-19 in the previous 90 days and to those who have a substantiated medical reason for an&nbsp;exemption.All members of the campus community will be tested prior to the start of classes on Jan. 25 and every two weeks thereafter. Anyone who is required to take part in the testing program but fails to follow protocols will not have access to campus buildings and may face disciplinary&nbsp;action.<figure>
 <img src="https://news.unl.edu/sites/default/files/styles/meta/public/media/201203_Saliva_Tube_030.jpg?itok=VTIKMxWw" alt="Specialized tubes will be used for collection during the university's saliva-based COVID-19 testing in the spring. The mandatory tests will be required before classes start on Jan. 25 and every two weeks thereafter.&nbsp;Craig Chandler | University Communication" />
 <figcaption>Specialized tubes will be used for collection during the university's saliva-based COVID-19 testing in the spring. The mandatory tests will be required before classes start on Jan. 25 and every two weeks thereafter.&nbsp;Craig Chandler | University Communication</figcaption>
 </figure>The university is working with Big Ten colleagues at the University of Illinois to finalize a smartphone app that will connect to individual testing results. Students, faculty and staff will use the app (or a printable option) to show a negative test result to wellness attendants stationed at campus building entrances. The wellness attendants will not grant access to any student, faculty and staff who are unable to show a current test result or those who test positive for the&nbsp;virus.Students will also be required to complete the Spring 2021 Cornhusker Commitment, which is an affirmative agreement to adhere to the university’s testing program and health/safety measures. The updated&nbsp;<a href="https://covid19.unl.edu/we-are-cornhusker-committed">Cornhusker Commitment is available for review online</a>&nbsp;and will be available in MyRED for completion in&nbsp;January.University leaders are also seeking members of the campus community who could temporarily redeploy and help staff testing sites, diagnostic center and conduct contact&nbsp;tracing.“Standing up this capability is a major undertaking, and we need immediate staffing help,” Green said. “These are temporary assignments ranging from one to more than four months depending on the role and availability of the&nbsp;individual.”Employees must get supervisory permission before pursuing a redeployment to assist with the testing program. Some positions are open to student workers. Learn more about the work and positions&nbsp;available.Additional details about the spring semester’s testing program and app will be announced in January. Available information, including a list of frequently asked questions, is available on the university’s&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;website.Message to UNL Students&nbsp;Dear UNL Students, Faculty and Staff –The recent Thanksgiving holiday gave us many reasons to be thankful. We successfully finished a fall semester with students on campus and in-person education, and our UNL community largely responded admirably to the restrictions and extra measures needed to keep our campus safe.Yet, we can always improve. As the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified in Nebraska and globally, and as the colder weather forces us more indoors, we have thought about how to make our campus even safer next Spring when our students return. We will be instituting several new measures in January as we adapt to these growing challenges, including required, less invasive and faster testing for those in our campus community and an enhanced Cornhusker Commitment. Throughout the pandemic, we have had a close working partnership with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department. These additional steps are based on their recommendations, with the support of our Association of Students of the University of Nebraska (ASUN) executive team.New Saliva-Based Campus TestingWith the incredible support of UNL’s Veterinary Diagnostic Center, we will be able to provide saliva-based diagnostic testing on campus in the spring, with an expected 24-hour turn-around for positive or negative results.Standing up this capability is a major undertaking, and we need immediate help staffing it. We are looking for members of our campus community who would be able to temporarily redeploy to help staff the testing sites, diagnostic center and conduct contract tracing. These temporary re-assignments range from one-month to more than four months, depending on the role and availability of the individual. If you are interested and have capacity to redeploy on a temporary basis next spring, please visit this&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/springupdate_12-9-2020" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the available roles and to apply.Mandatory Testing / New Campus COVID AppWith this new capability for simpler, rapid diagnostic testing – we will be instituting free, mandatory testing in the Spring semester for our campus community.All UNL students residing in Lancaster County during the Spring semester will be required to be tested every two weeks. Any students residing outside Lancaster County who physically come to campus in the Spring semester will also be required to be tested every two weeks. All students will be required to be tested prior to moving into any campus housing or prior to classes commencing on January 25, 2021. Students will be receiving full information on these testing requirements and how to sign up for their initial tests in early January.Faculty and staff who are regularly on campus will also be required to be tested every two weeks. Faculty and staff who are primarily working remotely and come to campus infrequently will be required to be tested within the two weeks prior to visiting campus, preferably 2-3 days in advance. We are working to determine the capability to provide enhanced testing to any UNL faculty and staff outside of Lancaster County; for now, those employees should follow the recommended testing guidance of the local health departments. If coming to Lincoln, those employees should be tested in advance.We are also working with our Big Ten colleagues at the University of Illinois-UC for a unique campus app that will incorporate the results of the saliva tests to provide members of the campus community with a color-coded status based on negative or positive test results. A “go” status will be required to enter any UNL buildings on City, East or Nebraska Innovation Campuses. Alternatives for demonstrating a negative test and gaining access to campus buildings will be made available for any students, faculty or staff who do not own a smartphone. Information about the new app and how to download will be provided in early January.Students, faculty and staff are exempt from testing if they can show documentation of a positive COVID-19 test in the prior 90 days, or a documentation from a health care provider that substantiates a medical reason for an exemption. Those wishing to seek an exemption will be able to do so through a portal that will soon be available on our&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/springupdate02_12-9-2020" target="_blank">COVID-19 website</a>.In addition to the mandatory saliva-based testing, we will continue to have symptomatic and on-demand testing available for anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19, who have been identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19 or who feel the need to be tested prior to their next scheduled saliva test. In the Spring, even if you recently had a negative saliva test, we ask anyone demonstrating symptoms to be tested at the TestNebraska site.Enhanced Spring 2021 Cornhusker CommitmentAs we expand our testing, we are also enhancing the Spring 2021 Cornhusker Commitment. For the Spring semester, all students will be required to sign an affirmative agreement in MyRed agreeing to adhere to these expanded health and safety measures. Each student will need to commit to being tested as needed and to practicing the necessary safety measures of wearing masks indoors or when social distancing is not possible outdoors, avoiding large crowds and social gatherings, hand washing, and other proper hygiene. Students will acknowledge that a failure to adhere to these safety precautions could jeopardize their ability to be on campus.More information on the new safety measures being taken for our Spring 2021 semester is available on our UNL&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/springupdate03_12-9-2020" target="_blank">COVID-19 website</a>. We remain committed to safely providing in-person educational experiences and to continuing our critical research and creative activity, as well as our vital outreach across Nebraska. These additional measures will help make our Spring semester even more safe and successful.<figure>
 <img src="https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/RIPXbC3jeq_i443yC5Xqz4AXQrgkOHGlWgdj1eZJEAs4A43O0weywCNnKj1WwcM-5N20EGtgjaw=s0-d-e1-ft#https://go.unl.edu/ronniesig_11092020" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Ronnie D. Green, Ph.D. Chancellor&nbsp;

UNL to require mandatory bi-weekly COVID testing for students

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty&nbsp;

The Task Force on Poverty has spent a lot of time discussing stress and mental health this year. These are stressful times, with high poverty rates in our area, high unemployment rates, and high levels of COVID-19 with restrictions on gatherings, shopping, school, and travel. I am also a board member of Educational Service Unit #13, which provides support services to the schools in the Nebraska Panhandle. This article appeared in the ESU 13 December newsletter, and I requested permission to share it.

According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), 38 percent of people reported a stress level increase during the holidays. What about the holidays makes this such a stressful time for everyone?

The APA study revealed the top stressors include lack of time, money worries, over-commercialization of the holidays, gift giving pressure, the hassles of travel and family get-togethers. During the holidays, many of us fall into the happiness trap. We have such high expectations for joy during the holidays: bringing the family together, sharing a meal, exchanging thoughtful gifts. But the stress that we feel in trying to make the holidays “perfect” causes us to feel overwhelmed and prevents us from truly delighting in what should be a joyful season spent with loved ones.&nbsp;

Acknowledge your feelings.&nbsp;If someone close to you has recently died or you can’t be with loved ones, realize that it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. It’s OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can’t force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season.

Reach Out.&nbsp;If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious, or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time to hep others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.

Be realistic.&nbsp;The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones.&nbsp;

Stick to a budget.&nbsp;Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then stick to your budget. Don't try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts.

Learn to say no.&nbsp;Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every project or activity. If it's not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.

Don’t abandon healthy habits.&nbsp;Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Try having a healthy snack before holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks.

Take a breather.&nbsp;Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.&nbsp;

Seek professional help if you need it.&nbsp;Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.

You are not the only one experiencing stress during the holidays. Disruptions in the routine, high expectations, and dealing with the stress of those around them make this a difficult time for your kids too. Here are some practical tips to help your kids cope during the holidays:

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty&nbsp;The Task Force on Poverty has spent a lot of time discussing stress and mental health this year. These are stressful times, with high poverty rates in our area, high unemployment rates, and high levels of COVID-19 with restrictions on gatherings, shopping, school, and travel. I am also a board member of Educational Service Unit #13, which provides support services to the schools in the Nebraska Panhandle. This article appeared in the ESU 13 December newsletter, and I requested permission to share it.According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), 38 percent of people reported a stress level increase during the holidays. What about the holidays makes this such a stressful time for everyone?The APA study revealed the top stressors include lack of time, money worries, over-commercialization of the holidays, gift giving pressure, the hassles of travel and family get-togethers. During the holidays, many of us fall into the happiness trap. We have such high expectations for joy during the holidays: bringing the family together, sharing a meal, exchanging thoughtful gifts. But the stress that we feel in trying to make the holidays “perfect” causes us to feel overwhelmed and prevents us from truly delighting in what should be a joyful season spent with loved ones.&nbsp;Tips for Managing Holiday StressAcknowledge your feelings.&nbsp;If someone close to you has recently died or you can’t be with loved ones, realize that it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. It’s OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can’t force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season.Reach Out.&nbsp;If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious, or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time to hep others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.Be realistic.&nbsp;The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones.&nbsp;Stick to a budget.&nbsp;Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then stick to your budget. Don't try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts.Learn to say no.&nbsp;Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every project or activity. If it's not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.Don’t abandon healthy habits.&nbsp;Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Try having a healthy snack before holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks.Take a breather.&nbsp;Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.&nbsp;Seek professional help if you need it.&nbsp;Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.Holiday Stress in Kids&nbsp;You are not the only one experiencing stress during the holidays. Disruptions in the routine, high expectations, and dealing with the stress of those around them make this a difficult time for your kids too. Here are some practical tips to help your kids cope during the holidays:<ul>
 <li>Manage your own stress.</li><li>As much as possible, keep their routine the same.</li><li>Give your child a heads up about any change in their normal routine.</li><li>Avoid over-scheduling.</li><li>Manage expectations (e.g., about gifts)</li><li>Keep kids active.</li><li>Watch what your child is eating.&nbsp;</li><li>Spend 1:1 together.&nbsp;</li><li>Create holiday rituals.</li><li>Choose something to do as a family that helps others.</li>
 </ul>

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