Mainland China reported 1,886 new virus cases and 98 more deaths for a total of 1,868, following a report that 80% of cases have been mild, prompting guarded optimism from health officials. 

The latest figures come after health officials in China published the first details on nearly 45,000 cases, saying more than 80% have been mild and new ones seem to be falling since early this month.

 A total of 72,436 cases have been reported in mainland China as of Tuesday. 

A recent spike was due to a broader definition in the hardest-hit region based on doctors' diagnoses before laboratory tests were completed.

Mainland China reported 1,886 new virus cases and 98 more deaths for a total of 1,868, following a report that 80% of cases have been mild, prompting guarded optimism from health officials. The latest figures come after health officials in China published the first details on nearly 45,000 cases, saying more than 80% have been mild and new ones seem to be falling since early this month. A total of 72,436 cases have been reported in mainland China as of Tuesday. A recent spike was due to a broader definition in the hardest-hit region based on doctors' diagnoses before laboratory tests were completed.

China reports 1,886 new virus cases, death toll up by 98

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) arrested two men after finding 100 pounds of marijuana and one half pound of methamphetamine while attempting a motorist assist on Friday in Lincoln.

At approximately 4:00 p.m. Friday, a trooper observed a recreational vehicle having difficulty maintaining its lane while traveling eastbound in Interstate 80 near Lincoln. The vehicle exited I-80 at mile marker 399 in Lincoln. The trooper contacted the driver of the RV at a gas station to offer assistance. The trooper then discovered that the driver was driving with a suspended license.

During the stop, an NSP K9 detected the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. Troopers searched the vehicle and found 100 pounds of marijuana and one half pound of methamphetamine.

The driver, Jason Wolff, 43, of Sacramento, California, and passenger, Michael Wernecke, 48, of Madison, Wisconsin, were arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to deliver. Both were lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) arrested two men after finding 100 pounds of marijuana and one half pound of methamphetamine while attempting a motorist assist on Friday in Lincoln.At approximately 4:00 p.m. Friday, a trooper observed a recreational vehicle having difficulty maintaining its lane while traveling eastbound in Interstate 80 near Lincoln. The vehicle exited I-80 at mile marker 399 in Lincoln. The trooper contacted the driver of the RV at a gas station to offer assistance. The trooper then discovered that the driver was driving with a suspended license.During the stop, an NSP K9 detected the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. Troopers searched the vehicle and found 100 pounds of marijuana and one half pound of methamphetamine.The driver, Jason Wolff, 43, of Sacramento, California, and passenger, Michael Wernecke, 48, of Madison, Wisconsin, were arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to deliver. Both were lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

Troopers find 100 LBs of marijuana, meth during motorist assist

HASTINGS, Neb. (AP) — A motorcyclist had died after colliding with a pickup truck along a highway in south-central Nebraska. 

The collision occurred around 2 p.m. Sunday on U.S. Highway 6, about 6 miles west of Hastings. 

Authorities say the eastbound motorcyclist collided with the westbound pickup as the truck was turning south. 

The motorcyclist has been identified as 54-year-old Jeffery Hoffart, who lived in Hastings. 

The pickup driver has been identified as 81-year-old Gerald Mousel, of Roseland. 

Authorities say he and one of his two passengers were taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

HASTINGS, Neb. (AP) — A motorcyclist had died after colliding with a pickup truck along a highway in south-central Nebraska. The collision occurred around 2 p.m. Sunday on U.S. Highway 6, about 6 miles west of Hastings. Authorities say the eastbound motorcyclist collided with the westbound pickup as the truck was turning south. The motorcyclist has been identified as 54-year-old Jeffery Hoffart, who lived in Hastings. The pickup driver has been identified as 81-year-old Gerald Mousel, of Roseland. Authorities say he and one of his two passengers were taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Motorcyclist dies after highway collision with pickup

ELWOOD, Neb. (AP) — A man accused of tossing a dog onto a frozen southern Nebraska lake has pleaded not guilty. 

Gosper County Court records say James Pollock entered a written plea Thursday to misdemeanor animal cruelty. 

Authorities have said Pollock threw the dog onto the lake, causing it to land on its back and break through the ice. 

Investigators say the dog swam back to shore, but it was tossed into the lake two more times. Austin Vanburen is accused of taking video of what happened during the Jan. 4 incident. 

Vanburen pleaded guilty Friday to attempted animal cruelty.&nbsp;

ELWOOD, Neb. (AP) — A man accused of tossing a dog onto a frozen southern Nebraska lake has pleaded not guilty. Gosper County Court records say James Pollock entered a written plea Thursday to misdemeanor animal cruelty. Authorities have said Pollock threw the dog onto the lake, causing it to land on its back and break through the ice. Investigators say the dog swam back to shore, but it was tossed into the lake two more times. Austin Vanburen is accused of taking video of what happened during the Jan. 4 incident. Vanburen pleaded guilty Friday to attempted animal cruelty.&nbsp;

Man accused of tossing dog onto lake ice pleads not guilty

FREMONT, Neb. (AP) — Two people were rescued from a cabin near Fremont after flood waters from the Platte River surrounded the building. 

Dodge County officials say the two people were rescued around 8 p.m. Saturday after the cabin was surrounded by water that was more than 4 feet deep. 

Both people rescued from the cabin were taken to a hospital in good condition. Dodge County officials say ice jams along the Platte River caused the flooding southwest of the city of Fremont.&nbsp;

FREMONT, Neb. (AP) — Two people were rescued from a cabin near Fremont after flood waters from the Platte River surrounded the building. Dodge County officials say the two people were rescued around 8 p.m. Saturday after the cabin was surrounded by water that was more than 4 feet deep. Both people rescued from the cabin were taken to a hospital in good condition. Dodge County officials say ice jams along the Platte River caused the flooding southwest of the city of Fremont.&nbsp;

Two people rescued after ice jam flooding

NEW YORK (AP) — A second wave of flu is hitting the U.S., turning this into one of the nastiest seasons for children in a decade. 

Health officials Friday said 92 flu-related deaths have already been reported in children. 

Experts say it is potentially a bad time for an extended flu season, given concerns about the new coronavirus out of China. 

If the coronavirus starts spreading in the U.S., there could be confusion about whether people are getting sick with it or the flu. But health officials are trying to use labs that test for flu to check for coronavirus, too.

NEW YORK (AP) — A second wave of flu is hitting the U.S., turning this into one of the nastiest seasons for children in a decade. Health officials Friday said 92 flu-related deaths have already been reported in children. Experts say it is potentially a bad time for an extended flu season, given concerns about the new coronavirus out of China. If the coronavirus starts spreading in the U.S., there could be confusion about whether people are getting sick with it or the flu. But health officials are trying to use labs that test for flu to check for coronavirus, too.

Amid coronavirus fears, a second wave of flu hits US kids

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A 34-year-old North Platte man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for conspiracy and production of child pornography. 

Federal prosecutors for Nebraska say Mathew Goad was sentenced Thursday in Lincoln's federal court and ordered to undergo a lifetime of supervision upon his release from prison. 

He must also register as a sex offender and pay $3,600 in restitution. 

Investigators say a March 2019 search of a home in Kansas City, Missouri, investigators found that Goad sent the Kansas City resident a video recording of himself sexually assaulted a child. 

Agents then searched electronic devices seized from Goad and found about 3,400 images and 800 videos of child pornography.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A 34-year-old North Platte man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for conspiracy and production of child pornography. Federal prosecutors for Nebraska say Mathew Goad was sentenced Thursday in Lincoln's federal court and ordered to undergo a lifetime of supervision upon his release from prison. He must also register as a sex offender and pay $3,600 in restitution. Investigators say a March 2019 search of a home in Kansas City, Missouri, investigators found that Goad sent the Kansas City resident a video recording of himself sexually assaulted a child. Agents then searched electronic devices seized from Goad and found about 3,400 images and 800 videos of child pornography.

Western Nebraska man sentenced to prison for producing child porn

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A former Omaha elementary school principal accused last year of not immediately reporting a teacher's suspected sexual abuse of students has pleaded no contest to failing to report child abuse.

Eric Nelson entered the plea Thursday in Douglas County District Court, television station KETV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/former-fontenelle-principal-pleads-no-contest-to-failure-to-report-child-abuse/30918324" target="_blank">reported</a>. Nelson was principal of Fontenelle Elementary School when prosecutors say he failed to report first-grade teacher Greg Sedlacek to authorities, even after seeing photos of Sedlacek sexually assaulting a student. State law requires educators to report suspected abuse of children.

Nelson was placed on leave following Sedlacek's arrest and resigned last June, about a month after Sedlacek pleaded guilty to three counts of child sex assault. Sedlacek is now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d6ae2a3706ff4e388a68ff42ef5428e5" target="_blank">serving&nbsp;</a>a 50- to 100-year prison sentence.

Sedlacek was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0c655a0517ea4a718c38d9b60e81b016" target="_blank">arrested&nbsp;</a>in December 2018 after other teachers reported seeing him molest a 7-year-old girl on the school's playground. Other victims came forward, and prosecutors determined he had assaulted several 6- and 7-year-old girls who were students in his classes.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A former Omaha elementary school principal accused last year of not immediately reporting a teacher's suspected sexual abuse of students has pleaded no contest to failing to report child abuse.Eric Nelson entered the plea Thursday in Douglas County District Court, television station KETV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/former-fontenelle-principal-pleads-no-contest-to-failure-to-report-child-abuse/30918324" target="_blank">reported</a>. Nelson was principal of Fontenelle Elementary School when prosecutors say he failed to report first-grade teacher Greg Sedlacek to authorities, even after seeing photos of Sedlacek sexually assaulting a student. State law requires educators to report suspected abuse of children.Nelson was placed on leave following Sedlacek's arrest and resigned last June, about a month after Sedlacek pleaded guilty to three counts of child sex assault. Sedlacek is now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d6ae2a3706ff4e388a68ff42ef5428e5" target="_blank">serving&nbsp;</a>a 50- to 100-year prison sentence.Sedlacek was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0c655a0517ea4a718c38d9b60e81b016" target="_blank">arrested&nbsp;</a>in December 2018 after other teachers reported seeing him molest a 7-year-old girl on the school's playground. Other victims came forward, and prosecutors determined he had assaulted several 6- and 7-year-old girls who were students in his classes.Nelson will be sentenced in April.

Ex-school principal enters plea for failing to report abuse

BEIJING (AP) —  A Chinese health official says more than 1,700 medical workers have been infected by the new virus and six have died. 

China also is reporting another sizable rise in the number of people sickened by the virus, which has killed nearly 1,400 people and spread to other parts of Asia, the U.S. and Europe. 

The number of cases has been rising more quickly since the hardest-hit province changed the way it is counting them. 

Hubei province is now including cases based on a physician’s diagnosis before they have been confirmed by lab tests. 

The World Health Organization is pressing for more details to insure other respiratory illnesses, including influenza, are not getting mixed in with the data.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581713108577.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Macau Photo Agency" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Macau Photo Agency</figcaption>
 </figure>BEIJING (AP) — A Chinese health official says more than 1,700 medical workers have been infected by the new virus and six have died. China also is reporting another sizable rise in the number of people sickened by the virus, which has killed nearly 1,400 people and spread to other parts of Asia, the U.S. and Europe. The number of cases has been rising more quickly since the hardest-hit province changed the way it is counting them. Hubei province is now including cases based on a physician’s diagnosis before they have been confirmed by lab tests. The World Health Organization is pressing for more details to insure other respiratory illnesses, including influenza, are not getting mixed in with the data.

Virus cases rise as experts question China's numbers

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Technical Crimes Division have arrested three people for possession of child pornography or possession of methamphetamine in separate investigations this week.

On Wednesday, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence at 13850 Kenilworth in Waverly after receiving a cyber-tip through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The search revealed more than 100 images of child pornography in a cloud-based storage account and additional images on devices at the home.

Colin Gierke, 24, was arrested for possession and distribution of child pornography. Gierke was lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

On Thursday, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence at 324 S. Fillmore Street in Bruning. The investigation began with a cyber-tip from NCMEC. During the search, investigators found multiple images of child pornography as well as methamphetamine.

The resident, Shane Smith, 50, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and lodged in Thayer County Jail. Charges related to child pornography are pending as the investigation continues. Smith is a registered sex offender.

On Friday, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence at 2325 N. Broadwell Avenue #105 in Grand Island. This investigation also began with a cyber-tip received through NCMEC. During the search, investigators found multiple images of child pornography. Michael Taylor, 53, was arrested for possession of child pornography and lodged in Hall County Jail.

NCMEC receives cyber-tips from a variety of tech companies and works closely with the NSP Technical Crimes Division to provide information that can be used to begin investigations.

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Technical Crimes Division have arrested three people for possession of child pornography or possession of methamphetamine in separate investigations this week.On Wednesday, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence at 13850 Kenilworth in Waverly after receiving a cyber-tip through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The search revealed more than 100 images of child pornography in a cloud-based storage account and additional images on devices at the home.Colin Gierke, 24, was arrested for possession and distribution of child pornography. Gierke was lodged in Lancaster County Jail.On Thursday, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence at 324 S. Fillmore Street in Bruning. The investigation began with a cyber-tip from NCMEC. During the search, investigators found multiple images of child pornography as well as methamphetamine.The resident, Shane Smith, 50, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and lodged in Thayer County Jail. Charges related to child pornography are pending as the investigation continues. Smith is a registered sex offender.On Friday, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence at 2325 N. Broadwell Avenue #105 in Grand Island. This investigation also began with a cyber-tip received through NCMEC. During the search, investigators found multiple images of child pornography. Michael Taylor, 53, was arrested for possession of child pornography and lodged in Hall County Jail.NCMEC receives cyber-tips from a variety of tech companies and works closely with the NSP Technical Crimes Division to provide information that can be used to begin investigations.

NSP arrests three in child pornography, meth investigations

LINCOLN&nbsp;– Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Presidents’ Day, which is celebrated on Monday, February 17, 2020.

“On Presidents’ Day, we gratefully recall the lives of the leaders who’ve held our nation’s highest office.&nbsp; The holiday falls between the birthdays of George Washington (February 22nd) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12th).&nbsp; President Washington heroically led American troops during the Revolutionary War and served as the first President of the American Republic in its infancy.&nbsp; President Lincoln showed remarkable courage under the pressures of civil war, and he helped put an end to slavery. &nbsp;As we reflect on their lives, let’s give thanks for the legacy of liberty they have given us.&nbsp; And let’s build on this heritage so that the United States continues to be the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

LINCOLN&nbsp;– Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Presidents’ Day, which is celebrated on Monday, February 17, 2020.“On Presidents’ Day, we gratefully recall the lives of the leaders who’ve held our nation’s highest office.&nbsp; The holiday falls between the birthdays of George Washington (February 22nd) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12th).&nbsp; President Washington heroically led American troops during the Revolutionary War and served as the first President of the American Republic in its infancy.&nbsp; President Lincoln showed remarkable courage under the pressures of civil war, and he helped put an end to slavery. &nbsp;As we reflect on their lives, let’s give thanks for the legacy of liberty they have given us.&nbsp; And let’s build on this heritage so that the United States continues to be the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

Gov. Ricketts’ Presidents’ Day statement

ANITA, Iowa (AP) — A western Iowa woman is accused of killing an 11-week-old baby at her day care by shaking her. 

Cass County court records say 36-yera-old Alison Dorsey, of Anita, was arrested Thursday and charged with first-degree murder and child endangerment resulting in death. 

She remained in Cass County Jail on Friday. Her attorney didn't immediately return a call from The Associated Press. 

Authorities have said the child died Oct. 8 at an Omaha, Nebraska, hospital from internal brain bleeding — a condition commonly described as shaken baby syndrome.

ANITA, Iowa (AP) — A western Iowa woman is accused of killing an 11-week-old baby at her day care by shaking her. Cass County court records say 36-yera-old Alison Dorsey, of Anita, was arrested Thursday and charged with first-degree murder and child endangerment resulting in death. She remained in Cass County Jail on Friday. Her attorney didn't immediately return a call from The Associated Press. Authorities have said the child died Oct. 8 at an Omaha, Nebraska, hospital from internal brain bleeding — a condition commonly described as shaken baby syndrome.

Woman accused of fatally injuring baby at her day care

BISMARCK, N.D. (Bismarck Tribune) — A Bismarck woman wanted after failing to appear in court on felony child neglect charges has been arrested in South Dakota. 

Twenty-seven-year-old Dawn Morsette was arrested last June after her 7-month-old daughter went missing.

 The child was dropped off anonymously at Sanford Hospital after a search by family and law enforcement. 

A state warrant was issued after she failed to show up for a court hearing. 

The Bismarck Tribune reports that last month a federal warrant was issued for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution after electronic surveillance by federal agents showed Moresette was at a residence on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. 

She was arrested in Rosebud Feb. 6.&nbsp;

BISMARCK, N.D. (Bismarck Tribune) — A Bismarck woman wanted after failing to appear in court on felony child neglect charges has been arrested in South Dakota. Twenty-seven-year-old Dawn Morsette was arrested last June after her 7-month-old daughter went missing. The child was dropped off anonymously at Sanford Hospital after a search by family and law enforcement. A state warrant was issued after she failed to show up for a court hearing. The Bismarck Tribune reports that last month a federal warrant was issued for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution after electronic surveillance by federal agents showed Moresette was at a residence on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. She was arrested in Rosebud Feb. 6.&nbsp;

Woman wanted for felony child neglect arrested in Rosebud

MILFORD, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say the driver of a vehicle in which officers found narcotics after a traffic stop in eastern Nebraska died when he ran into traffic. 

The stop occurred around 3 p.m. Thursday, about 10 miles west of Lincoln on Interstate 80.

 Authorities say that after the drugs were found during a search, the man fled across eastbound lanes. He was hit by a passenger vehicle heading west in the westbound lanes. 

The man was pronounced dead at Seward Memorial Hospital. His name hasn't been released. 

Authorities say his vehicle had Illinois plates.

MILFORD, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say the driver of a vehicle in which officers found narcotics after a traffic stop in eastern Nebraska died when he ran into traffic. The stop occurred around 3 p.m. Thursday, about 10 miles west of Lincoln on Interstate 80. Authorities say that after the drugs were found during a search, the man fled across eastbound lanes. He was hit by a passenger vehicle heading west in the westbound lanes. The man was pronounced dead at Seward Memorial Hospital. His name hasn't been released. Authorities say his vehicle had Illinois plates.

Man running from officers fatally struck by vehicle on I-80

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Investigators believe the shooting of a 15-year-old Omaha boy was accidental, Douglas County's top prosecutor said Thursday.

A 14-year-old is suspected of shooting to death 15-year-old Sylas Lieb inside a northeast Omaha home on Wednesday night. Officers called to the scene around 7:15 p.m. said Lieb had been shot in the chest.

Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/1-person-killed-in-shooting-wednesday-evening/30902303" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>television station KETV that Lieb, the 14-year-old suspect and an 18-year-old had been smoking marijuana most of the day before the shooting happened and said that the shooting was accidental.

The 14-year-old was booked into the Douglas County Youth Center on suspicion of manslaughter. The Associated Press typically does not name juveniles charged with crimes.

Omaha Central High School Principal Ed Bennett said in a note sent Thursday to the families of Central students that Lieb was a 10th grader at the downtown school, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/boy-killed-in-shooting-near-th-and-hamilton--year/article_187237ca-1f4c-5ed7-9ec4-7469c14b783b.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. Lieb has also attended Franklin Elementary School and Lewis &amp; Clark Middle School, both in Omaha.

Counselors were to be counselors available at Central High for students on Thursday, Bennett said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Investigators believe the shooting of a 15-year-old Omaha boy was accidental, Douglas County's top prosecutor said Thursday.A 14-year-old is suspected of shooting to death 15-year-old Sylas Lieb inside a northeast Omaha home on Wednesday night. Officers called to the scene around 7:15 p.m. said Lieb had been shot in the chest.Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/1-person-killed-in-shooting-wednesday-evening/30902303" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>television station KETV that Lieb, the 14-year-old suspect and an 18-year-old had been smoking marijuana most of the day before the shooting happened and said that the shooting was accidental.The 14-year-old was booked into the Douglas County Youth Center on suspicion of manslaughter. The Associated Press typically does not name juveniles charged with crimes.Omaha Central High School Principal Ed Bennett said in a note sent Thursday to the families of Central students that Lieb was a 10th grader at the downtown school, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/boy-killed-in-shooting-near-th-and-hamilton--year/article_187237ca-1f4c-5ed7-9ec4-7469c14b783b.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. Lieb has also attended Franklin Elementary School and Lewis &amp; Clark Middle School, both in Omaha.Counselors were to be counselors available at Central High for students on Thursday, Bennett said.

Prosecutors: Omaha teen shooting believed to be accidental

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An arctic cold front that descended upon eastern Nebraska and most of Iowa may have claimed an elderly victim. 

Omaha police say officers found the body of an 80-year-old man a little before 5:40 a.m. Thursday in a street not far from an assisted living center where he lived.

 Police say he was not dressed appropriately for the cold. 

The National Weather Service says the wind chill had dropped to minus 26 degrees (minus 32 Celsius) at that time. 

He's been identified as Robert Freymuller. 

Many schools, businesses and organizations remained closed or opened late because of the frigid air blast.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An arctic cold front that descended upon eastern Nebraska and most of Iowa may have claimed an elderly victim. Omaha police say officers found the body of an 80-year-old man a little before 5:40 a.m. Thursday in a street not far from an assisted living center where he lived. Police say he was not dressed appropriately for the cold. The National Weather Service says the wind chill had dropped to minus 26 degrees (minus 32 Celsius) at that time. He's been identified as Robert Freymuller. Many schools, businesses and organizations remained closed or opened late because of the frigid air blast.

Arctic weather over Nebraska may have claimed victim

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A bill to ensure more transparency in the death penalty has won first-round approval from Nebraska lawmakers after prison officials blocked the view of public witnesses while carrying out an execution in 2018. 

Lawmakers gave the measure first-round approval on a 33-7 vote. The bill would bar the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services from obscuring the view of witnesses during an execution. 

It would also require at least two state legislators to serve as witnesses. State law already requires witnesses from media outlets to be present. 

Prison officials faced criticism after they pulled the curtains over the media's viewing window for 14 minutes near the end of inmate Carey Dean Moore's execution.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A bill to ensure more transparency in the death penalty has won first-round approval from Nebraska lawmakers after prison officials blocked the view of public witnesses while carrying out an execution in 2018. Lawmakers gave the measure first-round approval on a 33-7 vote. The bill would bar the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services from obscuring the view of witnesses during an execution. It would also require at least two state legislators to serve as witnesses. State law already requires witnesses from media outlets to be present. Prison officials faced criticism after they pulled the curtains over the media's viewing window for 14 minutes near the end of inmate Carey Dean Moore's execution.

Execution transparency bill wins initial OK in Nebraska

NEW YORK (AP) - U.S. officials on Thursday announced the country's 15th confirmed case of the new coronavirus - an evacuee from China who had been under quarantine in Texas.

The patient, who had been flown to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio last week, is now in isolation at a hospital and was reported in stable condition. The infection was confirmed through a Wednesday night lab test , making the person the first coronavirus patient in Texas.

"There may be additional cases we identify. I do want to prepare you for that," said Dr. Jennifer McQuiston, deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control's division of high consequence pathogens and pathology.

Two earlier U.S. cases were found among evacuees flown to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in Southern California.

Hundreds of people, including U.S. State Department employees and their families, were brought to military bases in Texas, California and Nebraska aboard chartered flights from Wuhan, a city of 11 million that is at the center of the outbreak.

There are 57 evacuees being held in quarantine at the Nebraska National Guard's Camp Ashland southwest of Omaha, Nebraska, none of whom have shown any signs of the virus, Nebraska Medicine spokesman Taylor Wilson said. He said the Omaha hospital prepared to treat any of the evacuees if needed.

Tens of thousands of cases of the illness, known as COVID-19, have been reported globally, the vast majority of them in China.

The virus can cause fever, coughing, wheezing and pneumonia. Health officials think it spreads mainly from droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how the flu spreads.

MIKE STOBBE-AP Medical WriterNEW YORK (AP) - U.S. officials on Thursday announced the country's 15th confirmed case of the new coronavirus - an evacuee from China who had been under quarantine in Texas.The patient, who had been flown to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio last week, is now in isolation at a hospital and was reported in stable condition. The infection was confirmed through a Wednesday night lab test , making the person the first coronavirus patient in Texas."There may be additional cases we identify. I do want to prepare you for that," said Dr. Jennifer McQuiston, deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control's division of high consequence pathogens and pathology.Two earlier U.S. cases were found among evacuees flown to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in Southern California.Hundreds of people, including U.S. State Department employees and their families, were brought to military bases in Texas, California and Nebraska aboard chartered flights from Wuhan, a city of 11 million that is at the center of the outbreak.There are 57 evacuees being held in quarantine at the Nebraska National Guard's Camp Ashland southwest of Omaha, Nebraska, none of whom have shown any signs of the virus, Nebraska Medicine spokesman Taylor Wilson said. He said the Omaha hospital prepared to treat any of the evacuees if needed.Tens of thousands of cases of the illness, known as COVID-19, have been reported globally, the vast majority of them in China.The virus can cause fever, coughing, wheezing and pneumonia. Health officials think it spreads mainly from droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how the flu spreads.

US announces 15th virus case, this one in Texas evacuee

NEW YORK (AP) — After days of blistering criticism, Snoop Dogg has finally apologized to Gayle King for attacking her over her interview with Lisa Leslie about Kobe Bryant. 

Snoop Dogg was furious that King brought up rape allegations from Bryant's past in her interview with Leslie, and went on Instagram and called her names. 

He also said she better back off “before we come get you.” Last week, he denied threatening her but in a post on Wednesday he apologized and said he was raised better than that. 

The rapper said his apology came after talking to his mother about his remarks.

NEW YORK (AP) — After days of blistering criticism, Snoop Dogg has finally apologized to Gayle King for attacking her over her interview with Lisa Leslie about Kobe Bryant. Snoop Dogg was furious that King brought up rape allegations from Bryant's past in her interview with Leslie, and went on Instagram and called her names. He also said she better back off “before we come get you.” Last week, he denied threatening her but in a post on Wednesday he apologized and said he was raised better than that. The rapper said his apology came after talking to his mother about his remarks.

Snoop Dogg apologizes to Gayle King for rant over Bryant

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A 14-year-old is suspected of shooting to death another teenager inside a northeast Omaha home. 

Police say 15-year-old Sylas Lieb was found dead Wednesday night by officers called to the scene around 7:15 p.m. 

The 14-year-old was booked into the Douglas County Youth Center on suspicion of manslaughter. 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A 14-year-old is suspected of shooting to death another teenager inside a northeast Omaha home. Police say 15-year-old Sylas Lieb was found dead Wednesday night by officers called to the scene around 7:15 p.m. He'd been shot in the chest. The 14-year-old was booked into the Douglas County Youth Center on suspicion of manslaughter. His name hasn't been released.

14-year-old suspected of shooting to death Omaha teen

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Schools, businesses and organizations are remaining closed or opening late Thursday morning because of the arctic cold front that's descended upon eastern Nebraska and most of Iowa. 

The National Weather Service says temperatures will be about 10-20 degrees below average in the northern and central Plains. 

Wind chills as low as 30 below zero (minus 34 Celsius) were expected in some spots. 

The extreme cold could keep both states in a deep chill Friday as well. 

The weather service also warns of icy roadways  and sidewalks because of the rapidly falling temperatures overnight. 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Schools, businesses and organizations are remaining closed or opening late Thursday morning because of the arctic cold front that's descended upon eastern Nebraska and most of Iowa. The National Weather Service says temperatures will be about 10-20 degrees below average in the northern and central Plains. Wind chills as low as 30 below zero (minus 34 Celsius) were expected in some spots. The extreme cold could keep both states in a deep chill Friday as well. The weather service also warns of icy roadways and sidewalks because of the rapidly falling temperatures overnight. Surfaces that look wet may be icy.&nbsp;

Arctic chill descends on much of Nebraska, most of Iowa

Authorities say a suspect in a Rapid City armed robbery fatally shot himself after fleeing from law enforcement officers and engaging in an hours-long standoff. 

Rapid City police and the Custer County Sheriff's Office say a gunman held up Boyd's Drug Mart about 3 p.m. Tuesday. 

The Rapid City Journal reports witnesses were able to give police the license plate number of the suspect's vehicle. 

A Custer County sheriff's deputy spotted the vehicle a short time later and officers pursued it into Custer where they surrounded it during a nearly three-hour standoff that ended when he shot himself.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities say a suspect in a Rapid City armed robbery fatally shot himself after fleeing from law enforcement officers and engaging in an hours-long standoff. Rapid City police and the Custer County Sheriff's Office say a gunman held up Boyd's Drug Mart about 3 p.m. Tuesday. The Rapid City Journal reports witnesses were able to give police the license plate number of the suspect's vehicle. A Custer County sheriff's deputy spotted the vehicle a short time later and officers pursued it into Custer where they surrounded it during a nearly three-hour standoff that ended when he shot himself.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Armed Rapid City robbery suspect holds officers at bay, takes own life

Attorneys delivered their closing arguments Wednesday in the trial of a man accused of killing a Nebraska college student whose body has never been found.

 Joshua Keadle is accused of killing 19-year-old Tyler Thomas. Thomas disappeared Dec. 3, 2010, after leaving a party near Peru State College in southeastern Nebraska. 

Keadle’s attorney, Matt McDonald, acknowledged in his closing statements Wednesday that Thomas is likely dead, but added Keadle "is not the cause of her death.” 

A prosecutor countered that Keadle denied for three days having had any contact with Thomas before her disappearance before then leading investigators to a boat ramp where he says he left her alive.&nbsp;

Attorneys delivered their closing arguments Wednesday in the trial of a man accused of killing a Nebraska college student whose body has never been found. Joshua Keadle is accused of killing 19-year-old Tyler Thomas. Thomas disappeared Dec. 3, 2010, after leaving a party near Peru State College in southeastern Nebraska. Keadle’s attorney, Matt McDonald, acknowledged in his closing statements Wednesday that Thomas is likely dead, but added Keadle "is not the cause of her death.” A prosecutor countered that Keadle denied for three days having had any contact with Thomas before her disappearance before then leading investigators to a boat ramp where he says he left her alive.&nbsp;

Closing arguments delivered in Nebraska student death case

Ford is recalling over 240,000 SUVs and cars worldwide because a suspension part can fracture and increase the risk of a crash. 

The recall covers the Ford Flex, Taurus police car, Taurus SHO and Lincoln MKT from the 2013 through 2018 model years. 

Most of the recalled vehicles are in North America.

 Ford says if the suspension moves a lot on the vehicles, the rear toe links can fracture. Toe links help keep the rear suspension stable and the tires on the pavement. 

The company says it's not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem in this batch of recalled vehicles. 

Dealers will replace toe links on both sides with new ones that are stronger. 

Owners will be notified starting March 2.

Ford is recalling over 240,000 SUVs and cars worldwide because a suspension part can fracture and increase the risk of a crash. The recall covers the Ford Flex, Taurus police car, Taurus SHO and Lincoln MKT from the 2013 through 2018 model years. Most of the recalled vehicles are in North America. Ford says if the suspension moves a lot on the vehicles, the rear toe links can fracture. Toe links help keep the rear suspension stable and the tires on the pavement. The company says it's not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem in this batch of recalled vehicles. Dealers will replace toe links on both sides with new ones that are stronger. Owners will be notified starting March 2.

Ford recalls over 240K vehicles to fix suspension problem

Forecasters have posted a blizzard warning for the eastern Dakotas and western Minnesota as snow, strong winds and plunging temperatures move in. 

The storm is creating difficult travel conditions early Wednesday with a large number of schools canceling classes, including North Dakota State University and Minnesota State University Moorhead.

 The North Dakota Department of Transportation said Interstate 29 is closed in both directions from the Canadian border to the state line of South Dakota. 

Meteorologists expected wind gusts to 50 mph and whiteout conditions, especially in open, rural areas.

Snow accumulations will be low, at 1 to 2 inches expected.

Forecasters have posted a blizzard warning for the eastern Dakotas and western Minnesota as snow, strong winds and plunging temperatures move in. The storm is creating difficult travel conditions early Wednesday with a large number of schools canceling classes, including North Dakota State University and Minnesota State University Moorhead. The North Dakota Department of Transportation said Interstate 29 is closed in both directions from the Canadian border to the state line of South Dakota. Meteorologists expected wind gusts to 50 mph and whiteout conditions, especially in open, rural areas.Snow accumulations will be low, at 1 to 2 inches expected.