NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Just when it felt like we were moving forward, it's beginning to feel like we're moving backward.

Pop Corner in the Westfield Shopping Center is the latest restaurant in North Platte to announce that it was closing its dining room amid a spike in confirmed coronavirus cases.

A post on the Pop Corner Facebook page said, " It is with a heavy heart that we have decided to reclose the dining room at PopCorner. We are encouraging all of our customers to call their orders in, or use our online ordering service so that you are in and out of the lobby quickly."

Health officials elevated the risk level in Lincoln County after 23 new cases were reported over the last couple of days.

The announcement and rise in confirmed cases have canceled numerous events in the city, including the Nebraskaland Days concerts set for next weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596766675255.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Just when it felt like we were moving forward, it's beginning to feel like we're moving backward.Pop Corner in the Westfield Shopping Center is the latest restaurant in North Platte to announce that it was closing its dining room amid a spike in confirmed coronavirus cases.A post on the Pop Corner Facebook page said, " It is with a heavy heart that we have decided to reclose the dining room at PopCorner. We are encouraging all of our customers to call their orders in, or use our online ordering service so that you are in and out of the lobby quickly."Health officials elevated the risk level in Lincoln County after 23 new cases were reported over the last couple of days.The announcement and rise in confirmed cases have canceled numerous events in the city, including the Nebraskaland Days concerts set for next weekend.

Pop Corner closes dining room, still taking to go orders

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-As the number of coronavirus cases in Lincoln County continue to rise, a popular North Platte restaurant had decided to close their dining room.

La Casa Del Rios posted on their Facebook page that after careful consideration, they have decided to offer to go, delivery, and curbside only. 

The owners say the lobby will be closed starting Friday, August 7. 

They say the decision was made for the safety of their customers and employees. 

The owners say this was not an easy decision and they hope to be able to open fully again soon. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596759832579.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-As the number of coronavirus cases in Lincoln County continue to rise, a popular North Platte restaurant had decided to close their dining room.La Casa Del Rios posted on their Facebook page that after careful consideration, they have decided to offer to go, delivery, and curbside only. The owners say the lobby will be closed starting Friday, August 7. They say the decision was made for the safety of their customers and employees. The owners say this was not an easy decision and they hope to be able to open fully again soon.

Popular North Platte restaurant closes dining room, will offer delivery, to-go and curbside

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The coronavirus outbreak that has seen tens of thousands of confirmed cases in Nebraska is also plaguing jail and prison systems in the state.

The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services announced this week that two-state prison staffers had tested positive for the virus - one at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and the other at the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln. Both are isolating at home, according to emails from the state prisons system.

That news came as Douglas County confirmed an expanded outbreak at the Douglas County Jail, where 13 correctional officers and six inmates have tested positive for the virus this week. A total of 46 corrections employees, 59 inmates and two contractors have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic.

State prison officials also announced the death of an inmate at the Tecumseh prison, but refused to say whether the inmate had been diagnosed with or been tested for COVID-19, citing inmate privacy policy.

The inmate, 71-year-old Ronnie Main, died Aug. 4. He had served 36 years of a 20- to 80-year sentence for two counts of first degree sexual assault out of Cheyenne County.

An email from state prisons spokeswoman Laura Strimple said only that Main died after suffering "a medical emergency."

The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;showed Thursday that nearly 27,500 cases of the virus had been confirmed and 335 people have died from the virus since the start of the pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559820547211.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The coronavirus outbreak that has seen tens of thousands of confirmed cases in Nebraska is also plaguing jail and prison systems in the state.The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services announced this week that two-state prison staffers had tested positive for the virus - one at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and the other at the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln. Both are isolating at home, according to emails from the state prisons system.That news came as Douglas County confirmed an expanded outbreak at the Douglas County Jail, where 13 correctional officers and six inmates have tested positive for the virus this week. A total of 46 corrections employees, 59 inmates and two contractors have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic.State prison officials also announced the death of an inmate at the Tecumseh prison, but refused to say whether the inmate had been diagnosed with or been tested for COVID-19, citing inmate privacy policy.The inmate, 71-year-old Ronnie Main, died Aug. 4. He had served 36 years of a 20- to 80-year sentence for two counts of first degree sexual assault out of Cheyenne County.An email from state prisons spokeswoman Laura Strimple said only that Main died after suffering "a medical emergency."The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;showed Thursday that nearly 27,500 cases of the virus had been confirmed and 335 people have died from the virus since the start of the pandemic.

Coronavirus hits Nebraska jails, prisons

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The show at the Wild West Arena must go on, and it will, just without spectators.

At around 5:00 pm on Thursday, the Nebraskaland Days Board of Directors and Buffalo Bill Rodeo Committee met and made the difficult decision that the Buffalo Bill PRCA Rodeo should proceed without spectators.

Tickets bought for the rodeo for Thursday through Saturday will be refunded in full.

The Buffalo Bill Rodeo kicked off Wednesday night and will wrap up with Finals Night on Saturday.

Additionally, the Viaero Summer Jam Concert series featuring .38 Special and Granger Smith is also canceled.

The remaining Nebraskaland Days events are under review and decisions will be made soon.

The decisions were made due to an increase of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County. The West Central District Health Department raised the community risk level to Elevated on Thursday.

This is a developing story. Check back for details.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The show at the Wild West Arena must go on, and it will, just without spectators.At around 5:00 pm on Thursday, the Nebraskaland Days Board of Directors and Buffalo Bill Rodeo Committee met and made the difficult decision that the Buffalo Bill PRCA Rodeo should proceed without spectators.Tickets bought for the rodeo for Thursday through Saturday will be refunded in full.The Buffalo Bill Rodeo kicked off Wednesday night and will wrap up with Finals Night on Saturday.Additionally, the Viaero Summer Jam Concert series featuring .38 Special and Granger Smith is also canceled.The remaining Nebraskaland Days events are under review and decisions will be made soon.The decisions were made due to an increase of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County. The West Central District Health Department raised the community risk level to Elevated on Thursday.This is a developing story. Check back for details.

Buffalo Bill Rodeo will proceed, without spectators

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-On Thursday, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) raised their community risk dial to Orange or Elevated.

As area high school sports teams start to practice, we were curious as to how this would impact these practices.

According to North Platte High School Activities Director Jordan Cudney, with the switch to Orange, the high school teams are still allowed to practice. 

If we were to stay in orange, however, football would not be allowed to compete and all the other sports may be played with no spectators.

Earlier this week, the NSAA gave the go-ahead for Fall sports to begin across the state.

The increased threat level is due to a rise in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596754091416.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-On Thursday, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) raised their community risk dial to Orange or Elevated.As area high school sports teams start to practice, we were curious as to how this would impact these practices.According to North Platte High School Activities Director Jordan Cudney, with the switch to Orange, the high school teams are still allowed to practice. If we were to stay in orange, however, football would not be allowed to compete and all the other sports may be played with no spectators.Earlier this week, the NSAA gave the go-ahead for Fall sports to begin across the state.The increased threat level is due to a rise in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596750464298.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte High School AD says teams can still practice with increased community risk level

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The risk dial moved up from a 1.6 to 2.0 this week, which moved us
from the moderate risk level to the elevated risk level. There were
increases in the following data which contributed to the move in the
risk dial: 


The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial
provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central
District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow),
elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and
national guidance published by top public health experts and is
coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work,
and in the community.

The following data is used when
determining dial placement:&nbsp;

The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is presented to the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">HERE</a>,
the WCDHD <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/wcdhd/posts/?ref=notif">Facebook</a> page, as well as the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">dashboard</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596750464298.png" alt="As of August 6, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of August 6, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The risk dial moved up from a 1.6 to 2.0 this week, which moved us
from the moderate risk level to the elevated risk level. There were
increases in the following data which contributed to the move in the
risk dial: 
<ul>
 <li>Clusters/Community Spread
	</li><li>Contact Tracing
	</li><li>Cases per million per day
	</li><li>Community Events/Direct contacts
	of positives
</li>
 </ul>The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial
provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central
District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow),
elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and
national guidance published by top public health experts and is
coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work,
and in the community.The following data is used when
determining dial placement:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Weekly Positivity Rate
	</li><li>Overall Positivity Rate
	</li><li>New Cases
	</li><li>ICU Availability
	</li><li>Ventilator&nbsp;Availability&nbsp;
	</li><li>Community Spread
	</li><li>Testing Availability
	</li><li>Contact Tracing
	</li><li>Direct contacts of positives
	</li><li>Cases per million per day
	</li><li>Medical &amp; Surgical Bed
	Availability 
	
	</li><li>Availability of Reliable and Valid
	Antibody Testing
	</li><li>Availability of effective
	treatment&nbsp;modalities&nbsp;for COVID-19&nbsp;
	</li><li>An effective vaccine that is
	widely available&nbsp;
	</li><li>Being able to easily obtain PPE
	through standard supply chains
</li>
 </ul>The risk dial will be updated every
Thursday after the information is presented to the Public Health
Command Center. Dial updates are posted <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">HERE</a>,
the WCDHD <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/wcdhd/posts/?ref=notif">Facebook</a> page, as well as the <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/shared/JXDHSGQTF">dashboard</a>.

WCDHD moves 'risk dial' up after rise in confirmed cases

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow), elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and national guidance published by top public health experts and is coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work, and in the community.

The following data is used when determining dial placement: • Weekly Positivity Rate • Overall Positivity Rate • New Cases • ICU Availability • Ventilator Availability • Community Spread • Testing Availability • Contact Tracing • Direct contacts of positives • Cases per million per day • Medical &amp; Surgical Bed Availability • Availability of Reliable and Valid Antibody Testing • Availability of effective treatment modalities for COVID-19 • An effective vaccine that is widely available • Being able to easily obtain PPE through standard supply chains

The risk dial will be updated every Thursday after we have presented the information to the Public Health Command Center. We will be posting dial updates to our <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">website</a>, Facebook page, as well as our <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3ZQtZLNZAmEdE3jgbagYHSAl50N7apmGBhxKHbYEn-Deeom_dzj42mImM#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">dashboard</a>.

“We want to remind the community about the necessity of practicing social distancing and wearing face coverings when in public, especially when attending events within the community. These measures are vital to our community to keep us healthy and safe”, said Shannon Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596150168439.png" alt="As of July 30, 2020" />
 <figcaption>As of July 30, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release WCDHDNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The COVID-19 Community Risk Dial provides a summary of current COVID-19 conditions in the West Central District. Each level of risk: low (green), moderate (yellow), elevated (orange), and high (red) are determined by federal and national guidance published by top public health experts and is coupled with specific guidance for actions to take at home, at work, and in the community.The following data is used when determining dial placement: • Weekly Positivity Rate • Overall Positivity Rate • New Cases • ICU Availability • Ventilator Availability • Community Spread • Testing Availability • Contact Tracing • Direct contacts of positives • Cases per million per day • Medical &amp; Surgical Bed Availability • Availability of Reliable and Valid Antibody Testing • Availability of effective treatment modalities for COVID-19 • An effective vaccine that is widely available • Being able to easily obtain PPE through standard supply chainsThe risk dial will be updated every Thursday after we have presented the information to the Public Health Command Center. We will be posting dial updates to our <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">website</a>, Facebook page, as well as our <a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3ZQtZLNZAmEdE3jgbagYHSAl50N7apmGBhxKHbYEn-Deeom_dzj42mImM#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes">dashboard</a>.“We want to remind the community about the necessity of practicing social distancing and wearing face coverings when in public, especially when attending events within the community. These measures are vital to our community to keep us healthy and safe”, said Shannon Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD.

WCDHD to update 'COVID-19 Community Risk Dial' each Thursday

By MATTHEW PERRONE, NICKY FORSTER and MICHELLE LIU

U.S. testing for the coronavirus is dropping even as infections remain high and the death toll rises by more than 1,000 a day, a worrisome trend that officials attribute largely to Americans getting discouraged over having to wait hours to get a test and days or weeks to learn the results.

An Associated Press analysis found that the number of tests per day slid 3.6% over the past two weeks to 750,000, with the count falling in 22 states. That includes places like Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and Iowa where the percentage of positive tests is high and continuing to climb, an indicator that the virus is still spreading uncontrolled.

Amid the crisis, some health experts are calling for the introduction of a different type of test that would yield results in a matter of minutes and would be cheap and simple enough for millions of Americans to test themselves — but would also be less accurate.

“There’s a sense of desperation that we need to do something else,” said Dr. Ashish Jha, director of Harvard’s Global Health Institute.

Widespread testing is considered essential to managing the outbreak as the U.S. approaches a mammoth 5 million confirmed infections and more than 157,000 deaths out of over 700,000 worldwide.

Testing demand is expected to surge again this fall, when schools reopen and flu season hits, most likely outstripping supplies and leading to new delays and bottlenecks.

Some of the decline in testing over the past few weeks was expected after backlogged commercial labs urged doctors to concentrate on their highest-risk patients. But some health and government officials are seeing growing public frustration and waning demand.

In Iowa, state officials are reporting less interest in testing, despite ample supplies. The state’s daily testing rate peaked in mid-July but has declined 20% in the last two weeks.

“We have the capacity. Iowans just need to test,” Gov. Kim Reynolds said last week.

Jessica Moore of rural Newberry, South Carolina, said that after a private lab lost her COVID-19 test results in mid-July, she had to get re-tested at a pop-up site organized by the state.

Moore and her husband arrived early on a Saturday morning at the site, a community center, where they waited for two hours for her test. Moore watched in the rear-view mirror as people drove up, saw the long line of cars, and then turned around and left.

“If people have something to do on a Saturday and they want to get tested, they’re not going to wait for two hours in the South Carolina heat for a test, especially if they’re not symptomatic,” Moore said.

Before traveling from Florida to Delaware last month, Laura DuBose Schumacher signed up to go to a drive-up testing site in Orlando with her husband. They were given a one-hour window in which to arrive.

They got there at the start of the window, but after 50 minutes it looked as if the wait would be another hour. Others who had gone through the line told them that they wouldn’t get their results until five days later, a Monday, at the earliest. They were planning to travel the next day, so they gave up.

“Monday would have been pointless, so we left the line,” Schumacher said.

The number of confirmed infections in the U.S. has topped 4.7 million, with new cases running at nearly 60,000 a day on average, down from more than 70,000 in the second half of July.

U.S. testing is built primarily on highly sensitive molecular tests that detect the genetic code of the coronavirus. Although the test is considered the gold standard for accuracy, experts increasingly say the country’s overburdened lab system is incapable of keeping pace with the outbreak and producing results within two or three days, the time frame crucial to isolating patients and containing the virus.

“They’re doing as good a job as they possibly can do, but the current system will not allow them to keep up with the demand,” said Mara Aspinall of Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions.

Testing delays have led researchers at Harvard and elsewhere to propose a new approach using so-called antigen tests — rapid technology already used to screen for flu, strep throat and other common infections. Instead of detecting the virus itself, such tests look for viral proteins, or antigens, which are generally considered a less accurate measure of infection.

A number of companies are studying COVID-19 antigen tests in which you spit on a specially coated strip of paper, and if you are infected, it changes color. Experts say the speed and widespread availability of such tests would more than make up for their lower precision.

While no such tests for the coronavirus are on the U.S. market, experts say the technology is simple and the hurdles are more regulatory than technical. The Harvard researchers say production could quickly be scaled into the millions.

A proposal from the Harvard researchers calls for the federal government to distribute $1 saliva-based antigen tests to all Americans so that they can test themselves regularly, perhaps even daily.

Even with accuracy as low as 50%, researchers estimate the paper strip tests would uncover five times more COVID-19 cases than the current laboratory-based approach, which federal officials estimate catches just 1 in 10 infections.

But the approach faces resistance in Washington, where federal regulators have required at least 80% accuracy for new COVID-19 tests.

To date, the Food and Drug Administration has allowed only two COVID-19 antigen tests to enter the market. Those tests require a nasal swab supervised by a health professional and can only be run on specialized machines found at hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing homes and clinics.

Also, because of the risk of false negatives, doctors may need to confirm a negative result with a genetic test when patients have possible symptoms of COVID-19.

On Tuesday, the governors of Maryland, Virginia, Louisiana and three other states announced an agreement with the Rockefeller Foundation to purchase more than 3 million of the FDA-cleared antigen tests, underscoring the growing interest in the technology.

When asked about introducing cheaper, paper-based tests, the government’s “testing czar,” Adm. Brett Giroir, warned that their accuracy could fall as low as 20% to 30%.

“I don’t think that would do a service to the American public of having something that is wrong seven out of 10 times,” Giroir said last week. “I think that could be catastrophic.”

By MATTHEW PERRONE, NICKY FORSTER and MICHELLE LIUAssociated PressU.S. testing for the coronavirus is dropping even as infections remain high and the death toll rises by more than 1,000 a day, a worrisome trend that officials attribute largely to Americans getting discouraged over having to wait hours to get a test and days or weeks to learn the results.An Associated Press analysis found that the number of tests per day slid 3.6% over the past two weeks to 750,000, with the count falling in 22 states. That includes places like Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and Iowa where the percentage of positive tests is high and continuing to climb, an indicator that the virus is still spreading uncontrolled.Amid the crisis, some health experts are calling for the introduction of a different type of test that would yield results in a matter of minutes and would be cheap and simple enough for millions of Americans to test themselves — but would also be less accurate.“There’s a sense of desperation that we need to do something else,” said Dr. Ashish Jha, director of Harvard’s Global Health Institute.Widespread testing is considered essential to managing the outbreak as the U.S. approaches a mammoth 5 million confirmed infections and more than 157,000 deaths out of over 700,000 worldwide.Testing demand is expected to surge again this fall, when schools reopen and flu season hits, most likely outstripping supplies and leading to new delays and bottlenecks.Some of the decline in testing over the past few weeks was expected after backlogged commercial labs urged doctors to concentrate on their highest-risk patients. But some health and government officials are seeing growing public frustration and waning demand.In Iowa, state officials are reporting less interest in testing, despite ample supplies. The state’s daily testing rate peaked in mid-July but has declined 20% in the last two weeks.“We have the capacity. Iowans just need to test,” Gov. Kim Reynolds said last week.Jessica Moore of rural Newberry, South Carolina, said that after a private lab lost her COVID-19 test results in mid-July, she had to get re-tested at a pop-up site organized by the state.Moore and her husband arrived early on a Saturday morning at the site, a community center, where they waited for two hours for her test. Moore watched in the rear-view mirror as people drove up, saw the long line of cars, and then turned around and left.“If people have something to do on a Saturday and they want to get tested, they’re not going to wait for two hours in the South Carolina heat for a test, especially if they’re not symptomatic,” Moore said.Before traveling from Florida to Delaware last month, Laura DuBose Schumacher signed up to go to a drive-up testing site in Orlando with her husband. They were given a one-hour window in which to arrive.They got there at the start of the window, but after 50 minutes it looked as if the wait would be another hour. Others who had gone through the line told them that they wouldn’t get their results until five days later, a Monday, at the earliest. They were planning to travel the next day, so they gave up.“Monday would have been pointless, so we left the line,” Schumacher said.The number of confirmed infections in the U.S. has topped 4.7 million, with new cases running at nearly 60,000 a day on average, down from more than 70,000 in the second half of July.U.S. testing is built primarily on highly sensitive molecular tests that detect the genetic code of the coronavirus. Although the test is considered the gold standard for accuracy, experts increasingly say the country’s overburdened lab system is incapable of keeping pace with the outbreak and producing results within two or three days, the time frame crucial to isolating patients and containing the virus.“They’re doing as good a job as they possibly can do, but the current system will not allow them to keep up with the demand,” said Mara Aspinall of Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions.Testing delays have led researchers at Harvard and elsewhere to propose a new approach using so-called antigen tests — rapid technology already used to screen for flu, strep throat and other common infections. Instead of detecting the virus itself, such tests look for viral proteins, or antigens, which are generally considered a less accurate measure of infection.A number of companies are studying COVID-19 antigen tests in which you spit on a specially coated strip of paper, and if you are infected, it changes color. Experts say the speed and widespread availability of such tests would more than make up for their lower precision.While no such tests for the coronavirus are on the U.S. market, experts say the technology is simple and the hurdles are more regulatory than technical. The Harvard researchers say production could quickly be scaled into the millions.A proposal from the Harvard researchers calls for the federal government to distribute $1 saliva-based antigen tests to all Americans so that they can test themselves regularly, perhaps even daily.Even with accuracy as low as 50%, researchers estimate the paper strip tests would uncover five times more COVID-19 cases than the current laboratory-based approach, which federal officials estimate catches just 1 in 10 infections.But the approach faces resistance in Washington, where federal regulators have required at least 80% accuracy for new COVID-19 tests.To date, the Food and Drug Administration has allowed only two COVID-19 antigen tests to enter the market. Those tests require a nasal swab supervised by a health professional and can only be run on specialized machines found at hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing homes and clinics.Also, because of the risk of false negatives, doctors may need to confirm a negative result with a genetic test when patients have possible symptoms of COVID-19.On Tuesday, the governors of Maryland, Virginia, Louisiana and three other states announced an agreement with the Rockefeller Foundation to purchase more than 3 million of the FDA-cleared antigen tests, underscoring the growing interest in the technology.When asked about introducing cheaper, paper-based tests, the government’s “testing czar,” Adm. Brett Giroir, warned that their accuracy could fall as low as 20% to 30%.“I don’t think that would do a service to the American public of having something that is wrong seven out of 10 times,” Giroir said last week. “I think that could be catastrophic.”___

Virus testing in the US is dropping, even as deaths mount

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., USA; CLAAS Omaha; and Nucor Detailing Center as the recipients of the Developing Youth Talent Initiative (DYTI) grants for 2020. &nbsp;Launched by the Governor in 2015, DYTI introduces middle school students to careers in industries such as manufacturing, information technology, engineering, and healthcare. &nbsp;DYTI is administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).&nbsp;

“To compete and grow, we must connect the next generation of Nebraskans with the opportunities they need to succeed,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“By forging partnerships between schools and local employers, DYTI encourages youth to explore high-demand career paths where talent is needed and great jobs are plentiful.&nbsp; We appreciate this year’s grant recipients for their commitment to our youth and our state.”

Each year, DED awards $250,000 in DYTI grants to for-profit, Nebraska-based companies in partnership with area school districts. &nbsp;Together, these consortiums implement programs to inform, engage, and inspire seventh- and eighth-grade students to explore careers in high demand throughout Nebraska.

“By creating a direct link between employers and educators, we’re able to do three things,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. &nbsp;“We can ensure that the real-world labor needs of employers play a role in students’ education; that teachers and educators have a voice when it comes to designing career readiness programs; and that students are made aware of the opportunities awaiting them long before they graduate high school and are expected to choose a career path.”

Receiving this year’s largest DYTI grant of $117,300, Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. is the program’s first applicant/recipient from Lincoln. &nbsp;The company expects to impact up to 9,000 students across 12 Lincoln schools through its grant. &nbsp;Kawasaki’s DYTI program will feature hands-on activities and instructional videos, virtual field trips, and opportunities for teachers to learn onsite at its facilities.&nbsp; Kawasaki is tailoring its DYTI program to focus on careers in manufacturing and engineering.&nbsp;

“Kawasaki is excited to partner with Lincoln Public Schools on the project,” said Jim Townsend, Assistant Manager of Safety, Training, and Development at Kawasaki.&nbsp; “The grant will not only help make this project successful, but will help establish a pipeline for students to enter manufacturing careers and develop our future workforce.”&nbsp;

CLAAS Omaha, in partnership with Metro Community College and other Omaha-area manufacturers, will receive a DYTI grant of $92,300.&nbsp; CLAAS will create a formal pathway to careers in manufacturing for 315 students enrolled in a north Omaha afterschool program. &nbsp;The program, managed by Partnership 4 Kids, takes place at five schools and primarily hosts low-income students and students of color.

“We are honored to be a part of this fantastic initiative and proud to contribute in developing youth,” said Matthias Ristow, President of CLAAS Omaha’s Managing Director Business Administration. &nbsp;“CLAAS is committed to the development of our current employees, as well as future employees.&nbsp; A program such as this allows students to discover the exciting careers in manufacturing, as well as provides mentors who will take a personal interest in these students.”

Now a two-time DYTI recipient, Nucor Detailing Center in Norfolk will receive $40,400 to create a new curriculum on additive manufacturing—also known as 3D printing. &nbsp;The company will purchase 3D printers to be used in five area schools, and by any interested school in the surrounding Educational Service Units, to introduce students to cutting-edge design and manufacturing processes. &nbsp;The program is slated to reach up to 2,000 students across 15 schools.

“The Nucor Detailing Center and all 1,500 area teammates are grateful to have the opportunity to partner with local educators once again to foster student interest in manufacturing and STEM careers,” said Dave Decarolis, a trainer at Nucor. &nbsp;“We have seen firsthand the tremendous results that can be achieved when programs are created and supported by a coalition of educators, local businesses, and government agencies. &nbsp;Because of the DYTI program, Nucor has been fortunate to create relationships with amazing educators throughout Northeast Nebraska, and can continue to reach students throughout the region.”

Since its inception, DYTI grants have impacted an estimated 12,000 students across 43 Nebraska school districts. &nbsp;Today’s awards will nearly double that total, impacting around 11,300 additional students in 17 school districts. &nbsp;For more information about DYTI, visit the DED website at&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov</a>. &nbsp;

Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F2rcjvtu40bo1rjp%2FPress%2520Conf%25208.05.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7f9dcc6daea42186c7608d8396ccdd7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637322486752507647&amp;sdata=v952oVSP2Abv18s7S6DXEJnDfTu5evF%2BWFZmqeVQ5dI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596676703619.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., USA; CLAAS Omaha; and Nucor Detailing Center as the recipients of the Developing Youth Talent Initiative (DYTI) grants for 2020. &nbsp;Launched by the Governor in 2015, DYTI introduces middle school students to careers in industries such as manufacturing, information technology, engineering, and healthcare. &nbsp;DYTI is administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).&nbsp;“To compete and grow, we must connect the next generation of Nebraskans with the opportunities they need to succeed,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“By forging partnerships between schools and local employers, DYTI encourages youth to explore high-demand career paths where talent is needed and great jobs are plentiful.&nbsp; We appreciate this year’s grant recipients for their commitment to our youth and our state.”Each year, DED awards $250,000 in DYTI grants to for-profit, Nebraska-based companies in partnership with area school districts. &nbsp;Together, these consortiums implement programs to inform, engage, and inspire seventh- and eighth-grade students to explore careers in high demand throughout Nebraska.“By creating a direct link between employers and educators, we’re able to do three things,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. &nbsp;“We can ensure that the real-world labor needs of employers play a role in students’ education; that teachers and educators have a voice when it comes to designing career readiness programs; and that students are made aware of the opportunities awaiting them long before they graduate high school and are expected to choose a career path.”Receiving this year’s largest DYTI grant of $117,300, Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. is the program’s first applicant/recipient from Lincoln. &nbsp;The company expects to impact up to 9,000 students across 12 Lincoln schools through its grant. &nbsp;Kawasaki’s DYTI program will feature hands-on activities and instructional videos, virtual field trips, and opportunities for teachers to learn onsite at its facilities.&nbsp; Kawasaki is tailoring its DYTI program to focus on careers in manufacturing and engineering.&nbsp;“Kawasaki is excited to partner with Lincoln Public Schools on the project,” said Jim Townsend, Assistant Manager of Safety, Training, and Development at Kawasaki.&nbsp; “The grant will not only help make this project successful, but will help establish a pipeline for students to enter manufacturing careers and develop our future workforce.”&nbsp;CLAAS Omaha, in partnership with Metro Community College and other Omaha-area manufacturers, will receive a DYTI grant of $92,300.&nbsp; CLAAS will create a formal pathway to careers in manufacturing for 315 students enrolled in a north Omaha afterschool program. &nbsp;The program, managed by Partnership 4 Kids, takes place at five schools and primarily hosts low-income students and students of color.“We are honored to be a part of this fantastic initiative and proud to contribute in developing youth,” said Matthias Ristow, President of CLAAS Omaha’s Managing Director Business Administration. &nbsp;“CLAAS is committed to the development of our current employees, as well as future employees.&nbsp; A program such as this allows students to discover the exciting careers in manufacturing, as well as provides mentors who will take a personal interest in these students.”Now a two-time DYTI recipient, Nucor Detailing Center in Norfolk will receive $40,400 to create a new curriculum on additive manufacturing—also known as 3D printing. &nbsp;The company will purchase 3D printers to be used in five area schools, and by any interested school in the surrounding Educational Service Units, to introduce students to cutting-edge design and manufacturing processes. &nbsp;The program is slated to reach up to 2,000 students across 15 schools.“The Nucor Detailing Center and all 1,500 area teammates are grateful to have the opportunity to partner with local educators once again to foster student interest in manufacturing and STEM careers,” said Dave Decarolis, a trainer at Nucor. &nbsp;“We have seen firsthand the tremendous results that can be achieved when programs are created and supported by a coalition of educators, local businesses, and government agencies. &nbsp;Because of the DYTI program, Nucor has been fortunate to create relationships with amazing educators throughout Northeast Nebraska, and can continue to reach students throughout the region.”Since its inception, DYTI grants have impacted an estimated 12,000 students across 43 Nebraska school districts. &nbsp;Today’s awards will nearly double that total, impacting around 11,300 additional students in 17 school districts. &nbsp;For more information about DYTI, visit the DED website at&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov</a>. &nbsp;Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F2rcjvtu40bo1rjp%2FPress%2520Conf%25208.05.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7f9dcc6daea42186c7608d8396ccdd7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637322486752507647&amp;sdata=v952oVSP2Abv18s7S6DXEJnDfTu5evF%2BWFZmqeVQ5dI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces '2020 Developing Youth Talent Initiative' grant winners

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers advanced a compromise package Wednesday to soften the impact of local property tax increases, preserve tax incentives for businesses and commit as much as $300 million in state money to a proposed disaster response facility in Omaha.

The measure won first-round approval just days before this year's legislative session is scheduled to end.

Lawmakers struck the last-minute deal even though a lot of them said they didn't like much of the package, and others complained that it was being rushed through the Legislature. Several rural senators said the property tax portion would only slow the rate of increases for some homeowners, farmers and business owners.

"This is peanuts, thrown to the gallery," said Sen. Mike Groene, of North Platte. "Don't let the politicians tell you they're doing something great for you. They're not."

Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer said it was critical for lawmakers to pass the entire package this year to make the state "a more inviting place" and promote economic development.

"We have an opportunity to move this state forward," said Scheer, of Norfolk.

Other lawmakers questioned whether the funding would be sustainable and tie the hands of future lawmakers who oversee state money.

"The question is, is my successor going to have some impossible budget to balance in 2024 or 2025 because of decisions we make today," said Sen. Matt Hansen, of Lincoln.

Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, a leading architect of the bill, said the measure isn't perfect but will benefit most Nebraskans.

"This helps everybody in the state," said Linehan, the chairwoman of the Revenue Committee. "It helps us create more jobs. It helps homeowners and (farmers) and businesses that are stretched very thin."

The bill would offer a state income tax credit to farmers, homeowners and business owners, based on the amount of school district property taxes they paid the previous year.

State officials would award a total of $125 million in credits in the current year, and the amount would increase to $375 million within five years. Every time the state collects at least 3.5% more tax revenue than expected, at least half of the excess money would automatically go into the credit fund.

For most property owners, the credit would only reduce the size of the increase in their local property tax bill. One lawmaker estimated that a homeowner seeing a $500 increase would only see that reduced by $90.

The second piece of the package would create a new business tax incentive program to replace its current program, the Nebraska Advantage Act, which expires this year. The proposed program would provide $25 million in incentives in its first and second years, and the amount would grow to $150 million by year five. Nebraska business groups have fought hard for the incentive program as a way to create jobs and boost the economy, but critics cast them as a taxpayer-funded giveaway to companies.

"These businesses are going to come here whether we give them an incentive or not," said Sen. Steve Erdman, of Bayard, who frequently advocates for lower spending and tax cuts.

The third piece would offer state matching dollars of up to $300 million for a new all-hazard research and training facility at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. The project, estimated to cost $2.6 billion, would help respond to crises such as natural disasters and disease outbreaks. Nebraska would only contribute money if the federal government and private donors meet funding requirements.

Two more votes are required to pass the bill before it goes to Gov. Pete Ricketts.

Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte</a>

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers advanced a compromise package Wednesday to soften the impact of local property tax increases, preserve tax incentives for businesses and commit as much as $300 million in state money to a proposed disaster response facility in Omaha.The measure won first-round approval just days before this year's legislative session is scheduled to end.Lawmakers struck the last-minute deal even though a lot of them said they didn't like much of the package, and others complained that it was being rushed through the Legislature. Several rural senators said the property tax portion would only slow the rate of increases for some homeowners, farmers and business owners."This is peanuts, thrown to the gallery," said Sen. Mike Groene, of North Platte. "Don't let the politicians tell you they're doing something great for you. They're not."Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer said it was critical for lawmakers to pass the entire package this year to make the state "a more inviting place" and promote economic development."We have an opportunity to move this state forward," said Scheer, of Norfolk.Other lawmakers questioned whether the funding would be sustainable and tie the hands of future lawmakers who oversee state money."The question is, is my successor going to have some impossible budget to balance in 2024 or 2025 because of decisions we make today," said Sen. Matt Hansen, of Lincoln.Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, a leading architect of the bill, said the measure isn't perfect but will benefit most Nebraskans."This helps everybody in the state," said Linehan, the chairwoman of the Revenue Committee. "It helps us create more jobs. It helps homeowners and (farmers) and businesses that are stretched very thin."The bill would offer a state income tax credit to farmers, homeowners and business owners, based on the amount of school district property taxes they paid the previous year.State officials would award a total of $125 million in credits in the current year, and the amount would increase to $375 million within five years. Every time the state collects at least 3.5% more tax revenue than expected, at least half of the excess money would automatically go into the credit fund.For most property owners, the credit would only reduce the size of the increase in their local property tax bill. One lawmaker estimated that a homeowner seeing a $500 increase would only see that reduced by $90.The second piece of the package would create a new business tax incentive program to replace its current program, the Nebraska Advantage Act, which expires this year. The proposed program would provide $25 million in incentives in its first and second years, and the amount would grow to $150 million by year five. Nebraska business groups have fought hard for the incentive program as a way to create jobs and boost the economy, but critics cast them as a taxpayer-funded giveaway to companies."These businesses are going to come here whether we give them an incentive or not," said Sen. Steve Erdman, of Bayard, who frequently advocates for lower spending and tax cuts.The third piece would offer state matching dollars of up to $300 million for a new all-hazard research and training facility at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. The project, estimated to cost $2.6 billion, would help respond to crises such as natural disasters and disease outbreaks. Nebraska would only contribute money if the federal government and private donors meet funding requirements.Two more votes are required to pass the bill before it goes to Gov. Pete Ricketts.___Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte</a>

Nebraska property tax, incentives packages wins initial OK

LINCOLN, Neb. – Due to heavy visitor traffic, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds guests that the state’s five fish hatcheries remain closed.

For the safety of staff, the following hatcheries remain closed until further notice: Rock Creek in Dundy County, North Platte in Lincoln County, Valentine in Cherry County and Calamus in Garfield County. The buildings at the Grove Trout Rearing Station in Antelope County are closed, while the grounds are open.

The hatcheries will continue to produce and stock fish.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MDUuMjUzMjY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.CQhKm1UyLyhXcIWDAtOER4JRUetJx_nYZtAZM7bZrxY/s/497221905/br/81952904457-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;to view the fish stocking database or to find more information about fishing in Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596676028622.png" alt="Photo: Game and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Game and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Due to heavy visitor traffic, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds guests that the state’s five fish hatcheries remain closed.For the safety of staff, the following hatcheries remain closed until further notice: Rock Creek in Dundy County, North Platte in Lincoln County, Valentine in Cherry County and Calamus in Garfield County. The buildings at the Grove Trout Rearing Station in Antelope County are closed, while the grounds are open.The hatcheries will continue to produce and stock fish.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA4MDUuMjUzMjY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.CQhKm1UyLyhXcIWDAtOER4JRUetJx_nYZtAZM7bZrxY/s/497221905/br/81952904457-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;to view the fish stocking database or to find more information about fishing in Nebraska.

Nebraska state fish hatcheries remain closed

The North Platte Public Library is
announcing its current policies and procedures, effective August 1,
2020.

The
North Platte Public Library reserves the right to modify (stricter or
loosen) these provisions of service based on Health Care Directives
from the West Central District Health Department and/or City of North
Platte Administration.

You
are using the library at your own risk. The North Platte Public
Library is not responsible if you contract coronavirus or any other
communicable disease. We are taking all precautions to protect our
staff and our patrons.

NEWS RELEASEThe North Platte Public Library is
announcing its current policies and procedures, effective August 1,
2020.HOURS
OF OPERATION<ul>
 <li>
	Monday-Friday: 8:00AM –
	5:00PM 
	
	</li><li>
	Saturday and Sunday: The library is closed. 
	
	</li><li>
	Note that the Book Drop is
	always open.
</li>
 </ul>RESTRICTIONS/MODIFICATIONS<ul>
 <li>
	*NEW* All library staff are required to
	wear masks and may be further
	protected as their comfort level dictates. 
	
	</li><li>
	*NEW* A maximum time limit of 60
	minutes per visit per day will be enforced.
	Please notify staff if you require multiple entry or additional time
	per day.
	</li><li>
	*NEW* Donations of materials may be
	placed in the book drop at any time. 
	If you donation exceeds 30 items please call 308-535-8036 X3301 to
	make arrangements for drop off in alley.
	</li><li>
	*NEW* All August programming has been
	cancelled.
	</li><li>
	All persons visiting the library will need
	to check in with a library teammate and use hand sanitizer before
	entering the main area of the library. All persons will be asked
	their name and required to use hand sanitizer (provided by the
	Library). This is for the safety of all citizens to limit
	contamination of library materials by the virus. Face masks and/or
	face shields are encouraged.
	</li><li>
	Library is open to people of all ages.
	Children
	ages 12 and under, must
	be accompanied by an adult.
	 Adults and Children will
	be required to use hand sanitizer. Infants are expected to stay in a
	carrier or stroller. 
	
	</li><li>
	A maximum of 50 people (excluding library
	staff) will
	be allowed in the facility at any time
	</li><li>
	The second floor library collections and
	services, including Computer Services, are available.
	Please note that due to social
	distancing guidelines, computer availability and technology
	assistance is limited.
	</li><li>
	Social Distancing of six feet or more is
	encouraged and recommended whenever/wherever possible.
	</li><li>
	The Creation Station is open with limited
	hours, by appointment only, with modifications and restrictions.
	Call 308-535-8036 X3320 to make
	an appointment.
	</li><li>
	Group programming may be requested by
	contacting the Library Director. Due to social distancing
	guidelines, meeting room capacity is limited. 
	
	</li><li>
	All library materials must be returned
	through the book drop (not the front desk). The library’s book
	drop is open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. All returned library
	materials are put through a 72 hour quarantine.
	</li><li>
	Public Restrooms are open, however they
	are only cleaned once a day and should only be used in an emergency
	situation.
	</li><li>
	The drinking fountain is not available.
</li>
 </ul>The
North Platte Public Library reserves the right to modify (stricter or
loosen) these provisions of service based on Health Care Directives
from the West Central District Health Department and/or City of North
Platte Administration.You
are using the library at your own risk. The North Platte Public
Library is not responsible if you contract coronavirus or any other
communicable disease. We are taking all precautions to protect our
staff and our patrons.

North Platte Public Library announces updates to policies and procedures

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More court hearings are being handled over video conference in Douglas County because of a coronavirus outbreak at the jail in Nebraska's most populous county.

Inmates who test positive for the COVID-19 virus or have been near people with the virus aren't being transferred to the courthouse for routine hearings, officials say.

"We're not going to bring them over and spread it to the courthouse," Douglas County District Court Administrator Doug Johnson said.

Thirteen correctional officers and six inmates recently tested positive, Corrections Director Mike Myers said. A total of 46 employees, 59 inmates and two contractors have tested positive at the jail, which houses nearly 1,200.

Presiding Judge Horatio Wheelock said judges are doing as many hearings by video conference as possible in Douglas County District Court. The number of video hearings has steadily increased to 331 in July, up from April's 288.

State law allows most hearings to be conducted remotely, but trials must be conducted in person. Johnson said most of the trials scheduled for August have been either delayed or resolved.

Nebraska's online virus tracker showed Wednesday that the state has had 27,178 cases of coronavirus and 332 deaths since the outbreak began. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 206.86 new cases per day on July 21 to 293.86 new cases per day on Aug. 4.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More court hearings are being handled over video conference in Douglas County because of a coronavirus outbreak at the jail in Nebraska's most populous county.Inmates who test positive for the COVID-19 virus or have been near people with the virus aren't being transferred to the courthouse for routine hearings, officials say."We're not going to bring them over and spread it to the courthouse," Douglas County District Court Administrator Doug Johnson said.Thirteen correctional officers and six inmates recently tested positive, Corrections Director Mike Myers said. A total of 46 employees, 59 inmates and two contractors have tested positive at the jail, which houses nearly 1,200.Presiding Judge Horatio Wheelock said judges are doing as many hearings by video conference as possible in Douglas County District Court. The number of video hearings has steadily increased to 331 in July, up from April's 288.State law allows most hearings to be conducted remotely, but trials must be conducted in person. Johnson said most of the trials scheduled for August have been either delayed or resolved.Nebraska's online virus tracker showed Wednesday that the state has had 27,178 cases of coronavirus and 332 deaths since the outbreak began. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks from 206.86 new cases per day on July 21 to 293.86 new cases per day on Aug. 4.

More court hearings handled remotely amid virus outbreak

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -West Central District Health officials reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The 1st case is a female in her 30s actively isolating at home. This case is considered a close contact. 

The 2nd case is a female in her teens actively isolating at home. This case is considered close contact. 

The 3rd case is a female in her 30s actively isolating at home. This case is considered travel. 

The 4th case is female in her 20s actively isolating at home. This case is considered a close contact. 

The 5th case is a male in his 70s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 6th case is female in her 20s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 7th case is female in her 50s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 8th case is a female in her 60s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 9th case is male in his teens actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 10th case is a male in his 40s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 11th case is a female in her 60s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. 

The 12th case is a male in his 50s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation.

In continuing our efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our area and protect the health of our community, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) is asking for your assistance.&nbsp;

There has been confirmed positive COVID-19 cases of individuals who had visited the following locations:&nbsp;

If you have visited The Platte Bar on 7/30/2020 anytime from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm CST or The House Bar on 7/30/2020 from 10:15 pm – 11:30 pm CST, please visit <a href="https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH">https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH</a> and complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible. Once you have completed the screening questionnaire, you will be contacted by WCDHD for active monitoring and testing availability.&nbsp; If you do not have the capacity to complete the online screening questionnaire, please call 308-696-1201. Contact tracing is a vital tool used by public health departments to contain the spread of disease, and your cooperation will assist the WCDHD trained staff in its case investigation.

We would like to remind the community of the following resources and tools available:&nbsp;

WCDHD Dashboard: https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -West Central District Health officials reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday.&nbsp;12 positive cases in Lincoln CountyThe 1st case is a female in her 30s actively isolating at home. This case is considered a close contact. The 2nd case is a female in her teens actively isolating at home. This case is considered close contact. The 3rd case is a female in her 30s actively isolating at home. This case is considered travel. The 4th case is female in her 20s actively isolating at home. This case is considered a close contact. The 5th case is a male in his 70s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 6th case is female in her 20s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 7th case is female in her 50s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 8th case is a female in her 60s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 9th case is male in his teens actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 10th case is a male in his 40s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 11th case is a female in her 60s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation. The 12th case is a male in his 50s actively isolating at home. This case is under investigation.In continuing our efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our area and protect the health of our community, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) is asking for your assistance.&nbsp;There has been confirmed positive COVID-19 cases of individuals who had visited the following locations:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>The Platte Bar, 119 W 6th Street in North Platte, NE from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm CST on 7/30/2020&nbsp;</li><li>The House Bar, 1601 E 4th Street in North Platte, NE from 10:15 pm - 11:30 pm CST on 7/30/2020</li>
 </ul>If you have visited The Platte Bar on 7/30/2020 anytime from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm CST or The House Bar on 7/30/2020 from 10:15 pm – 11:30 pm CST, please visit <a href="https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH">https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH</a> and complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible. Once you have completed the screening questionnaire, you will be contacted by WCDHD for active monitoring and testing availability.&nbsp; If you do not have the capacity to complete the online screening questionnaire, please call 308-696-1201. Contact tracing is a vital tool used by public health departments to contain the spread of disease, and your cooperation will assist the WCDHD trained staff in its case investigation.We would like to remind the community of the following resources and tools available:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Current Directed Health Measure for the WCDHD jurisdiction: <a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-August1.pdf">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-August1.pdf</a></li><li>COVID-19 Risk Dial &amp; Community Guidance: <a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html</a></li>
 </ul>WCDHD Dashboard: https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596598185138.jpeg" alt="FB_IMG_1596598154195.jpg" />
 <figcaption>FB_IMG_1596598154195.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

12 new COVID-19 cases in Lincoln County, possible exposure at 2 bars

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota Department of Health says the number of confirmed coronavirus cases at a Christian youth summer camp in the Black Hills has grown to 96. 

Health officials said Monday that 93 South Dakota residents and three out-of-state residents have COVID-19 after attending Camp Judson near Keystone. 

The Rapid City Journal reports state epidemiologist Joshua Clayton said 328 people had been at the camp. 

He said 44 of the 93 South Dakota cases have recovered. 

The Department of Health reported 65 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Dakota on Monday. 

There are 9,020 total confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Dakota since the pandemic began and 135 deaths.&nbsp;

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota Department of Health says the number of confirmed coronavirus cases at a Christian youth summer camp in the Black Hills has grown to 96. Health officials said Monday that 93 South Dakota residents and three out-of-state residents have COVID-19 after attending Camp Judson near Keystone. The camp shut down several weeks ago. The Rapid City Journal reports state epidemiologist Joshua Clayton said 328 people had been at the camp. He said 44 of the 93 South Dakota cases have recovered. The Department of Health reported 65 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Dakota on Monday. There are 9,020 total confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Dakota since the pandemic began and 135 deaths.&nbsp;

Cases of COVID at South Dakota youth camp grow to 96

&nbsp; LINCOLN, Neb.-On Monday, Governor Pete Ricketts and Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Matthew Blomstedt held a press briefing to discuss plans for K-12 students to head back to the classroom this fall.

Commissioner Blomstedt: Back to School (K-12)

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dyXWp6BldCQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>&nbsp; LINCOLN, Neb.-On Monday, Governor Pete Ricketts and Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Matthew Blomstedt held a press briefing to discuss plans for K-12 students to head back to the classroom this fall.Gov. Ricketts: Back to School (K-12)<ul>
 <li>There are many reasons why it’s important for schools to be open this fall. Remote learning can be less effective, and it’s important that we provide the highest quality education possible.Not every parent is able to devote individual time and attention to oversee remote learning indefinitely.Social isolation isn’t good for the well-being of kids.&nbsp; They need interaction with their friends and the mentorship teachers provide.Education promotes physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.Kids battling food insecurity have better access to good nutrition when they’re in school.</li><li>Remote learning can be less effective, and it’s important that we provide the highest quality education possible.Not every parent is able to devote individual time and attention to oversee remote learning indefinitely.</li><li>Not every parent is able to devote individual time and attention to oversee remote learning indefinitely.</li><li>Social isolation isn’t good for the well-being of kids.&nbsp; They need interaction with their friends and the mentorship teachers provide.</li><li>Education promotes physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.</li><li>Kids battling food insecurity have better access to good nutrition when they’re in school.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Getting kids back into the classroom is critical to their well-being.&nbsp; CDC Director Robert Redfield recently reported that his agency is seeing more suicides and drug overdose deaths, among the high school population, than fatalities from coronavirus.&nbsp;</li><li>Dr. Redfield has also highlighted the extremely low risk of the virus to school-age children.&nbsp; In fact, the CDC says that coronavirus is five to ten times less deadly than the flu for school-age kids.</li>
 </ul>Commissioner Blomstedt: Back to School (K-12)<ul>
 <li>We’ve been doing thoughtful work at the Department of Education with schools, health officials, and other partners to ensure the best and safest environments possible.</li><li>We value equity, and it’s important to maintain access to high-quality teaching for all students in Nebraska.</li><li>While pursuing flexibility and innovation, we don’t ever want to sacrifice quality.</li><li>We’re working with schools to ensure that they can manage the safety of students and staff, while keeping their educational system moving forward.</li><li>Gauging and understanding the level of risk has been a key part of our back-to-school planning.</li><li>We’ve asked schools to thoughtfully analyze risk in conjunction with local and state health officials.</li><li>We’re also asking schools to identify and tailor their protocols in light of conditions in their community.</li><li>We’re then supporting schools as they engage staff, students, and parents to communicate their plan for a safe return.</li><li>In addition to assessing risks at our schools, we also have to weigh the costs of NOT having students in the classroom.&nbsp; These costs are significant, and we don’t take them lightly.</li><li>We’ve sought counsel from medical experts, both nationally and here in Nebraska, but decisions about schools ultimately rest with policymakers.</li><li>We anticipate the need to be flexible, and we’re committed to working alongside school districts as they welcome students back this fall.</li><li>All of our back-to-school guidance is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.launchne.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6b0922fe98d14cdceb5208d837e19052%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637320789216987014&amp;sdata=%2B5MTUXERGBDx3V8TXIJ2NLbmnkxPDtknivM9hLymZGo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.launchne.com</a>.</li>
 </ul>Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska<ul>
 <li>All Nebraskans are now eligible for testing through Test Nebraska.</li><li>We are pleased to announce that our second Omaha site at Oak View is now operating.&nbsp; We expect this to eventually double the number of test slots available in Omaha. Omaha: We have 1,600 slots at Crossroads, and we are planning to eventually have 1,600 slots at Oak View as well.Lincoln: Due to the approach of the school year, the Test Nebraska site in Lincoln has moved from North Star High School to Gateway Mall.</li><li>Omaha: We have 1,600 slots at Crossroads, and we are planning to eventually have 1,600 slots at Oak View as well.</li><li>Lincoln: Due to the approach of the school year, the Test Nebraska site in Lincoln has moved from North Star High School to Gateway Mall.</li><li>Last week, Test Nebraska set a new record with 3,791 people swabbed in a single day.</li><li>I encourage Nebraskans to continue to sign up, take the assessment, and schedule a time to get tested.</li><li>Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6b0922fe98d14cdceb5208d837e19052%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637320789216987014&amp;sdata=aq7oeTHFwc9P7UaDfAisHEIuaMTRdHW%2BzLDeX3ZjB7U%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;to see the latest schedule.</li>
 </ul>

🎥 Gov. Ricketts, Education Commissioner host back to school update

Since the early days of our state when pioneering women and men plowed the prairies and cut grain by hand, Nebraska has been known for its industriousness.&nbsp; Our love of growing things and making things has helped our state power through even the most difficult times.&nbsp; Just last year, we experienced historic flooding and now a pandemic.

As coronavirus restrictions have eased, Nebraskans are getting back to work. &nbsp;Recent data has shown that, so far, Nebraska’s economy has been one of the least impacted in the nation by the coronavirus.&nbsp; We also have one of the lowest unemployment rates.&nbsp; Even so, we have experienced historic joblessness and unemployment rates. &nbsp;To help Nebraskans find a new job or career opportunity, we have deployed three programs.&nbsp; The State’s reemployment program, SNAP Next Step, and Workforce Retraining Initiative (WRI) are all helping Nebraskans find a new opportunity.

A few years ago, Nebraska became the first state in the nation to launch a reemployment program.&nbsp; Led by the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL), this free program connects Nebraskans searching for a new opportunity with job coaches, tools to create an online searchable resume, and other valuable resources.&nbsp; People receiving unemployment benefits participate in these services to help them get back to work more quickly.&nbsp; Since mid-March, teammates at NDOL have assisted with more than 75,000 requests for employment services. &nbsp;You don’t have to receive unemployment benefits to access these great resources.&nbsp; NDOL’s job centers are open to anyone.&nbsp; They stand ready to connect Nebraskans to tens of thousands of employment openings.&nbsp; For more information about services available through the job centers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://dol.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dol.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.

One great way our reemployment program at NDOL has been making a difference in people’s lives is through a partnership with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.&nbsp; For the past few years, these agencies have teamed up to help families who rely on food stamps find new opportunities that give them greater financial independence and flexibility.&nbsp; This initiative, called SNAP Next Step, provides families with employment services such as creating a virtual resume, preparing for a job interview, and helping participants enhance their skills. &nbsp;On average, participants who complete SNAP Next Step increase their income by about $1,200 a month or $14,500 per year!&nbsp; For example, Jenni was out of work when she enrolled in the program.&nbsp; SNAP Next Step helped her find full-time employment at an engineering firm.&nbsp; Her new monthly income is $2,284, eliminating her need for SNAP benefits. &nbsp;

In addition to improving their financial situation, SNAP Next Step participants are enhancing their quality of life. &nbsp;Many are now working more predictable hours, allowing them to spend more time together as a family.&nbsp; For example, a single parent was working the second shift, including weekends, before she started SNAP Next Step.&nbsp; Now, she has a job working 8:00am to 5:00pm and can spend evenings with her children.&nbsp; In another instance, a single mother working as a waitress made just over $900 a month with no health benefits.&nbsp; After taking part in SNAP Next Step, she now earns almost $2,700 a month with full benefits, a pension, and potential bonuses.&nbsp;

Right now, SNAP Next Step is active in the following cities and their surrounding areas: Columbus, Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney, Lexington, Norfolk, North Platte, Scottsbluff, and Sidney.&nbsp; Given the success of the program, we’re in the process of expanding it statewide. &nbsp;Nebraskans interested in SNAP Next Step can learn more by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP-Next-Step.aspx" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP-Next-Step.aspx</a>.

Recently, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, NDOL, and I announced a new initiative that invests federal coronavirus funding into helping Nebraskans find a new career path.&nbsp; Through the Workforce Retraining Initiative (WRI), Nebraskans whose employment or income has been affected by the pandemic can apply for a scholarship to gain new skills to grow their earnings. &nbsp;Six of Nebraska’s community colleges are participating in the program.&nbsp; Each college has designed training courses to help scholarship recipients achieve industry-recognized certifications in career fields with a high demand for qualified workers. &nbsp;In addition to skills training, the colleges also offer career coaching to help students match their skills and interests to job opportunities.&nbsp; Every participant in WRI will engage with at least one potential employer during the training process.&nbsp; This allows students to build relationships with companies that are looking to hire.

Most WRI scholarships cover the full cost of the training program. &nbsp;Participants who were receiving unemployment benefits before being awarded a scholarship may continue to access the benefits, provided they are receiving training in a program approved by NDOL.&nbsp; Participating in approved training fulfills the work search requirement for people receiving unemployment benefits.&nbsp;

All of the WRI programs begin this fall.&nbsp; Most end by December, though some may continue into the spring.&nbsp; Nebraskans can apply for dozens of programs in career pathways such as nursing, health care, business administration, welding technology, truck driving/CDL, and criminal justice. &nbsp;A full list of training programs, along with information on how to apply, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships</a>.&nbsp;

While the impact of coronavirus has been dramatic,&nbsp; Nebraskans are resilient and resourceful.&nbsp; With the help of these initiatives and the industriousness of our people, we will get back to work and get our state growing quickly.&nbsp; In the coming months, we will keep working to create more great opportunities for folks to build a better future for themselves and their families.&nbsp; If you want to know more about our work to get Nebraska growing or any other matter, feel free to email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsSince the early days of our state when pioneering women and men plowed the prairies and cut grain by hand, Nebraska has been known for its industriousness.&nbsp; Our love of growing things and making things has helped our state power through even the most difficult times.&nbsp; Just last year, we experienced historic flooding and now a pandemic.As coronavirus restrictions have eased, Nebraskans are getting back to work. &nbsp;Recent data has shown that, so far, Nebraska’s economy has been one of the least impacted in the nation by the coronavirus.&nbsp; We also have one of the lowest unemployment rates.&nbsp; Even so, we have experienced historic joblessness and unemployment rates. &nbsp;To help Nebraskans find a new job or career opportunity, we have deployed three programs.&nbsp; The State’s reemployment program, SNAP Next Step, and Workforce Retraining Initiative (WRI) are all helping Nebraskans find a new opportunity.A few years ago, Nebraska became the first state in the nation to launch a reemployment program.&nbsp; Led by the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL), this free program connects Nebraskans searching for a new opportunity with job coaches, tools to create an online searchable resume, and other valuable resources.&nbsp; People receiving unemployment benefits participate in these services to help them get back to work more quickly.&nbsp; Since mid-March, teammates at NDOL have assisted with more than 75,000 requests for employment services. &nbsp;You don’t have to receive unemployment benefits to access these great resources.&nbsp; NDOL’s job centers are open to anyone.&nbsp; They stand ready to connect Nebraskans to tens of thousands of employment openings.&nbsp; For more information about services available through the job centers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://dol.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dol.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.One great way our reemployment program at NDOL has been making a difference in people’s lives is through a partnership with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.&nbsp; For the past few years, these agencies have teamed up to help families who rely on food stamps find new opportunities that give them greater financial independence and flexibility.&nbsp; This initiative, called SNAP Next Step, provides families with employment services such as creating a virtual resume, preparing for a job interview, and helping participants enhance their skills. &nbsp;On average, participants who complete SNAP Next Step increase their income by about $1,200 a month or $14,500 per year!&nbsp; For example, Jenni was out of work when she enrolled in the program.&nbsp; SNAP Next Step helped her find full-time employment at an engineering firm.&nbsp; Her new monthly income is $2,284, eliminating her need for SNAP benefits. &nbsp;In addition to improving their financial situation, SNAP Next Step participants are enhancing their quality of life. &nbsp;Many are now working more predictable hours, allowing them to spend more time together as a family.&nbsp; For example, a single parent was working the second shift, including weekends, before she started SNAP Next Step.&nbsp; Now, she has a job working 8:00am to 5:00pm and can spend evenings with her children.&nbsp; In another instance, a single mother working as a waitress made just over $900 a month with no health benefits.&nbsp; After taking part in SNAP Next Step, she now earns almost $2,700 a month with full benefits, a pension, and potential bonuses.&nbsp;Right now, SNAP Next Step is active in the following cities and their surrounding areas: Columbus, Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney, Lexington, Norfolk, North Platte, Scottsbluff, and Sidney.&nbsp; Given the success of the program, we’re in the process of expanding it statewide. &nbsp;Nebraskans interested in SNAP Next Step can learn more by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP-Next-Step.aspx" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP-Next-Step.aspx</a>.Recently, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, NDOL, and I announced a new initiative that invests federal coronavirus funding into helping Nebraskans find a new career path.&nbsp; Through the Workforce Retraining Initiative (WRI), Nebraskans whose employment or income has been affected by the pandemic can apply for a scholarship to gain new skills to grow their earnings. &nbsp;Six of Nebraska’s community colleges are participating in the program.&nbsp; Each college has designed training courses to help scholarship recipients achieve industry-recognized certifications in career fields with a high demand for qualified workers. &nbsp;In addition to skills training, the colleges also offer career coaching to help students match their skills and interests to job opportunities.&nbsp; Every participant in WRI will engage with at least one potential employer during the training process.&nbsp; This allows students to build relationships with companies that are looking to hire.Most WRI scholarships cover the full cost of the training program. &nbsp;Participants who were receiving unemployment benefits before being awarded a scholarship may continue to access the benefits, provided they are receiving training in a program approved by NDOL.&nbsp; Participating in approved training fulfills the work search requirement for people receiving unemployment benefits.&nbsp;All of the WRI programs begin this fall.&nbsp; Most end by December, though some may continue into the spring.&nbsp; Nebraskans can apply for dozens of programs in career pathways such as nursing, health care, business administration, welding technology, truck driving/CDL, and criminal justice. &nbsp;A full list of training programs, along with information on how to apply, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships</a>.&nbsp;While the impact of coronavirus has been dramatic,&nbsp; Nebraskans are resilient and resourceful.&nbsp; With the help of these initiatives and the industriousness of our people, we will get back to work and get our state growing quickly.&nbsp; In the coming months, we will keep working to create more great opportunities for folks to build a better future for themselves and their families.&nbsp; If you want to know more about our work to get Nebraska growing or any other matter, feel free to email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

COLUMN Ricketts: Getting Back to Work

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts said Monday that he remains confident that the benefits of reopening schools this fall outweigh the risks posed by the coronavirus and that he thinks students can return to the classroom safely.

Ricketts said it's important to reopen schools because of the academic, social, behavioral and nutritional benefits of having kids in class.

"It's important from an academic standpoint, but it's not just about academics either," Ricketts said. "There's a wide variety of things that go into the overall health of a child when it comes to why it's important that they're back in classrooms."

Ricketts and Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt said schools across the state have drafted detailed plans to keep children safe while reopening after consulting with local health officials and the state. Many districts are also offering parents an online-only option for their children to learn. Some districts are planning a hybrid approach in which kids alternate between online and in-person instruction.

"It's hard to balance between the safe environment when dealing with a pandemic while also understanding the impacts of not having school operating. Balancing those things is absolutely critical," Blomstedt said.

Having multiple options available for families is part of what will help schools successfully reopen this fall, and Blomstedt said parents will likely become more comfortable with schools being open as time passes.

"I understand the fears and trepidations that folks may have as we walk forward," he said. "But as we do this together, we'll get a comfort level. We'll get a comfort level of how that's going to work in schools. We'll understand when cases may pop up in schools that we're going to address those."

Some schools have already seen virus cases among students participating in practices and rehearsals for sports and activities before the school year begins. And schools in other states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e09fb2d56547704c48eb05b21483066d" target="_blank">have had students and staffers</a>&nbsp;test positive for COVID-19 within a day or two of reopening.

Blomstedt said conducting detailed contact tracing when students become ill will help schools manage the risks and determine how many other students might have to quarantine themselves following a positive case.

Nebraska's coronavirus case numbers have slowly trended upward this summer after the state eased restrictions and more businesses reopened. The seven-day rolling average of new daily cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks, from 212 new cases per day on the seven-day period that ended July 19 to 285 new cases per day during the period that ended Aug. 2.

Since the virus outbreak began, Nebraska has had 26,702 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 332 deaths linked to the virus, according to the state's online tracking portal. There were 491 additional cases reported since Friday.

Even though the number of cases continues to rise in the state, officials said hospitals have the space available to help people who contract the virus. Nebraska had 40% of its hospital beds and 83% of its ventilators available as of Monday, according to the tracking portal.

By JOSH FUNK-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts said Monday that he remains confident that the benefits of reopening schools this fall outweigh the risks posed by the coronavirus and that he thinks students can return to the classroom safely.Ricketts said it's important to reopen schools because of the academic, social, behavioral and nutritional benefits of having kids in class."It's important from an academic standpoint, but it's not just about academics either," Ricketts said. "There's a wide variety of things that go into the overall health of a child when it comes to why it's important that they're back in classrooms."Ricketts and Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt said schools across the state have drafted detailed plans to keep children safe while reopening after consulting with local health officials and the state. Many districts are also offering parents an online-only option for their children to learn. Some districts are planning a hybrid approach in which kids alternate between online and in-person instruction."It's hard to balance between the safe environment when dealing with a pandemic while also understanding the impacts of not having school operating. Balancing those things is absolutely critical," Blomstedt said.Having multiple options available for families is part of what will help schools successfully reopen this fall, and Blomstedt said parents will likely become more comfortable with schools being open as time passes."I understand the fears and trepidations that folks may have as we walk forward," he said. "But as we do this together, we'll get a comfort level. We'll get a comfort level of how that's going to work in schools. We'll understand when cases may pop up in schools that we're going to address those."Some schools have already seen virus cases among students participating in practices and rehearsals for sports and activities before the school year begins. And schools in other states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e09fb2d56547704c48eb05b21483066d" target="_blank">have had students and staffers</a>&nbsp;test positive for COVID-19 within a day or two of reopening.Blomstedt said conducting detailed contact tracing when students become ill will help schools manage the risks and determine how many other students might have to quarantine themselves following a positive case.Nebraska's coronavirus case numbers have slowly trended upward this summer after the state eased restrictions and more businesses reopened. The seven-day rolling average of new daily cases in Nebraska has risen over the past two weeks, from 212 new cases per day on the seven-day period that ended July 19 to 285 new cases per day during the period that ended Aug. 2.Since the virus outbreak began, Nebraska has had 26,702 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 332 deaths linked to the virus, according to the state's online tracking portal. There were 491 additional cases reported since Friday.Even though the number of cases continues to rise in the state, officials said hospitals have the space available to help people who contract the virus. Nebraska had 40% of its hospital beds and 83% of its ventilators available as of Monday, according to the tracking portal.

Ricketts says Nebraska schools safe to reopen despite virus

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-In continuing our efforts to
mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our area and protect the health of
our community, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) is
asking for your assistance. 


There
has been confirmed positive COVID-19 cases of individuals who had
visited the following locations: 


If
you have visited the House Bar on 7/26/2020 anytime from 12:00 pm to
7:30 pm CST or the Sand Volleyball games held on 7/23/2020 at 7:30 pm
and 8:45 pm CST, please
visit
<a href="https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH">https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH</a>
and complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible. Once
you have completed the screening questionnaire, you will be contacted
by WCDHD for active monitoring and testing availability. If
you do not have the capacity to complete the online screening
questionnaire, please call 308-696-1201. Contact tracing is a vital
tool used by public health departments to contain the spread of
disease, and your cooperation will assist the WCDHD trained staff in
its case investigation.

News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-In continuing our efforts to
mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our area and protect the health of
our community, the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) is
asking for your assistance. 
There
has been confirmed positive COVID-19 cases of individuals who had
visited the following locations: 
<ul>
 <li>Sand
	Volleyball Recreation and Competitive league games (Outdoor Courts
	on the east side of the Recreation Center, 1300 McDonald Road in
	North Platte, NE) at 7:30 pm and 8:45 pm CST on 7/23/2020 
	
	</li><li>House
	Bar, 1601 E 4th
	Street in North Platte, NE from 12:00 pm- 7:30 pm CST on 7/26/2020
</li>
 </ul>If
you have visited the House Bar on 7/26/2020 anytime from 12:00 pm to
7:30 pm CST or the Sand Volleyball games held on 7/23/2020 at 7:30 pm
and 8:45 pm CST, please
visit
<a href="https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH">https://nalhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yN57GCG24IXVxH</a>
and complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible. Once
you have completed the screening questionnaire, you will be contacted
by WCDHD for active monitoring and testing availability. If
you do not have the capacity to complete the online screening
questionnaire, please call 308-696-1201. Contact tracing is a vital
tool used by public health departments to contain the spread of
disease, and your cooperation will assist the WCDHD trained staff in
its case investigation.Shannon
Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD, states: “There is
sufficient evidence that supports the effectiveness of face coverings
to contain the spread of infection. In a recent CDC MMWR study, 109
people were exposed to a positive individual, 48% of these people
agreed to testing. Of those 48% that completed tested, all tested
negative for COVID-19. The investigators found that none of those who
were direct contacts or secondary contacts became ill, and all people
who volunteered to be tested showed no sign of infection.”“As
we see a significant increase in cases within our area, the wearing
of facial coverings is critical now more than ever,” said Shannon
Vanderheiden. 
We
would like to remind the community of the following resources and
tools available: 
<ul>
 <li>Current
	Directed Health Measure for the WCDHD jurisdiction:
	<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-August1.pdf">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-August1.pdf</a>
	</li><li>COVID-19
	Risk Dial &amp; Community Guidance:
	<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html</a>
</li>
 </ul>Three new positive cases in Lincoln CountyThe first case is a male in his 20s actively isolating at home. The contact type of this case is travel.The second case is a female in her 60s actively isolating at home. The contact type of this case is considered close contact.The third case is a female in her 30s actively isolating at home. The contact type of this case is under investigation.WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR04WJR2I_l8pNYzsODGPO0PAMXM1t3yZ2qa6XtC2B5L8iuRTcvtyjzjsyA#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596246353831.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Coronavirus Update