COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte on June 11, 2020[

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COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte (June 11, 2020)

Beginning June 18th&nbsp;NSAA member schools are permitted to participate in camps, clinics, and summer leagues in all NSAA sanctioned activities except basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling.

Effective immediately NSAA member schools may hold open gyms for basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling with the following restrictions:

Open gym supervisors are required to enforce the above restrictions.

Prioritizing the health and safety of all students and staff must remain the focus of each NSAA member school.

It is the responsibility of each NSAA member school to comply with:

Should the Governor issue further DHMs that would modify the foregoing provisions or other conditions warrant, these requirements will be adjusted.

Any further official updates will be posted on the NSAA website and the NSAA social media platforms.

Beginning June 18th&nbsp;NSAA member schools are permitted to participate in camps, clinics, and summer leagues in all NSAA sanctioned activities except basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling.Effective immediately NSAA member schools may hold open gyms for basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling with the following restrictions:<ol>
 <li>Individual skills and workouts only</li><li>No physical contact with others</li><li>No sharing of equipment</li><li>No grouping of students</li>
 </ol>Open gym supervisors are required to enforce the above restrictions.Prioritizing the health and safety of all students and staff must remain the focus of each NSAA member school.It is the responsibility of each NSAA member school to comply with:<ol>
 <li>The above requirements; and,</li><li><a href="https://nsaa-static.s3.amazonaws.com/textfile/yb/summer.pdf">The NSAA Summer Bylaws</a></li>
 </ol>Should the Governor issue further DHMs that would modify the foregoing provisions or other conditions warrant, these requirements will be adjusted.Any further official updates will be posted on the NSAA website and the NSAA social media platforms.

NSAA Sports update effective June 18th

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Meat production has rebounded from its low point during the coronavirus pandemic when dozens of plants were closed, but experts say consumer prices are likely to remain high and it will take months to work through a backlog of millions of pigs and cattle, creating headaches for producers.

Earlier this week, beef, pork and poultry plants were operating at more than 95% of last year's levels, which was up from about 60% in April at the height of plant closures and slowdowns, according to the U.S. Agriculture Department. That increased production came as companies took steps to protect workers, such as adding plastic partitions between work stations and staggering shifts, that are essential but could slow down the work. The safety measures and bonuses to incentivize workers have increased costs.

And while worker advocates stress that companies must be vigilant to avoid more coronavirus infections, those steps will likely mean higher prices at grocery stores. Even if plants became more efficient, there is a lag of several weeks between when wholesale prices drop and when consumers start to see the change.

Grocery stores, which absorbed some of the meat price increases this spring, also may not pass along all the price cuts as they try to restore their profit margins.

"Don't expect prices to fall in half just because wholesale prices have declined dramatically," said Lee Schulz, a livestock economist at Iowa State University.

Besides adopting measures to keep workers healthy, Kansas State University agricultural economist Glynn Tonsor said meat processors have also boosted production by operating plants more on Saturdays, rather than just weekdays, and by saving time by producing larger cuts of meat. That means grocery stores or consumers may have to cut a pork loin down into pork chops instead of that work being done at meat plants, for example.

But to work through the beef and pork backlogs quickly, meat processors may have to find ways to boost production higher than last year's levels, said Will Sawyer, a protein economist at Cobank, an agribusiness bank. Before the pandemic, meatpacking plants had been expected to produce more than they did last year.

Even as production levels climb, it will likely take all summer and maybe into the fall to work through the backlog of more than 1 million cattle and more than 2 million pigs that was created this spring when dozens of plants were closed. That will continue to create problems for farmers and ranchers who are struggling to find space for all those animals and face low prices because of the supply glut.

Mike Drinnin, who owns feedlots in Nebraska, said everyone involved in raising and feeding cattle felt the squeeze when so many beef and pork processing plants were idled, because fewer cattle were being bought by processors. More cattle are remaining in pastures and feedlots longer than normal while ranchers try to slow their growth rate to give themselves more flexibility.

"It's been a long, long, hard haul here since March and all this kind of started," said Drinnin, who serves on the board of the Nebraska Cattlemen trade group. "It's just been quite the struggle for everybody."

Pig farmers have been hit especially hard by the backlog because of the tight capacity on their farms. It has led some to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a2e4f0cd7f0675271e9771015f31efea" target="_blank">euthanize pigs</a>&nbsp;to create space in their barns.

"As farmers we're always trying to plan for the future, and it's just impossible right now," said Mike Paustian, the president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. "The only thing that's certain is that this problem is not going to go away anytime soon."

Largely because poultry plants are more automated, they didn't see as many virus outbreaks and closures, with production only falling about 5%, Sawyer said. The plants that did close temporarily were also smaller than some of the beef and pork plants that closed.

As&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/83ef6383e6a437aae20962e3c9de8855" target="_blank">meat plants</a>&nbsp;scale up to full capacity, companies still must ensure that plants don't again become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3245fe475b5552e493cfeb288ce04131" target="_blank">hotbeds of infections</a>, said Mark Lauritsen, director of the food processing and meatpacking division for the United Food and Commercial Workers International union. The union represents roughly 80% of the country's beef and pork workers and 33% of its poultry workers.

"We're still seeing outbreaks," Lauritsen said. "It's a strange virus because it's hard to say where it will pop up next."

Lauritsen said many plants where hundreds of employees became infected have reopened since implementing safety measures. But other plants, like a JBS beef plant in Hyrum, Utah, are just now seeing outbreaks. The plant, where mass testing revealed that 287 employees had COVID-19 this week, has had to slow some of its operations, but it remains open.

The union estimates that 13,150 U.S. meatpacking plant workers been infected or exposed to the coronavirus and 57 have died of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.

As plants scale up to full capacity, Lauritsen said he's concerned they will ease up on safety measures.

Worker shortages also still seem be a problem at some plants, with many employees cautiously returning to work. One labor staffing company in Arkansas, TEC Staffing Services, has held "drive thru hiring events" for poultry plants, seeking to fill hundreds of open positions.

Marisol Avelar, who works at a JBS pork plant in Worthington, Minnesota, said dozens of people are missing every day from her shift on the production line. When she was called back to work last month after the plant temporarily closed, her fears were somewhat assuaged by the safety measures the company had taken. She's still nervous, though, because of talk about infected workers.

"The company has done a lot of work trying to keep everyone safe, but people have continued getting infected," she said.

By JOSH FUNK-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Meat production has rebounded from its low point during the coronavirus pandemic when dozens of plants were closed, but experts say consumer prices are likely to remain high and it will take months to work through a backlog of millions of pigs and cattle, creating headaches for producers.Earlier this week, beef, pork and poultry plants were operating at more than 95% of last year's levels, which was up from about 60% in April at the height of plant closures and slowdowns, according to the U.S. Agriculture Department. That increased production came as companies took steps to protect workers, such as adding plastic partitions between work stations and staggering shifts, that are essential but could slow down the work. The safety measures and bonuses to incentivize workers have increased costs.And while worker advocates stress that companies must be vigilant to avoid more coronavirus infections, those steps will likely mean higher prices at grocery stores. Even if plants became more efficient, there is a lag of several weeks between when wholesale prices drop and when consumers start to see the change.Grocery stores, which absorbed some of the meat price increases this spring, also may not pass along all the price cuts as they try to restore their profit margins."Don't expect prices to fall in half just because wholesale prices have declined dramatically," said Lee Schulz, a livestock economist at Iowa State University.Besides adopting measures to keep workers healthy, Kansas State University agricultural economist Glynn Tonsor said meat processors have also boosted production by operating plants more on Saturdays, rather than just weekdays, and by saving time by producing larger cuts of meat. That means grocery stores or consumers may have to cut a pork loin down into pork chops instead of that work being done at meat plants, for example.But to work through the beef and pork backlogs quickly, meat processors may have to find ways to boost production higher than last year's levels, said Will Sawyer, a protein economist at Cobank, an agribusiness bank. Before the pandemic, meatpacking plants had been expected to produce more than they did last year.Even as production levels climb, it will likely take all summer and maybe into the fall to work through the backlog of more than 1 million cattle and more than 2 million pigs that was created this spring when dozens of plants were closed. That will continue to create problems for farmers and ranchers who are struggling to find space for all those animals and face low prices because of the supply glut.Mike Drinnin, who owns feedlots in Nebraska, said everyone involved in raising and feeding cattle felt the squeeze when so many beef and pork processing plants were idled, because fewer cattle were being bought by processors. More cattle are remaining in pastures and feedlots longer than normal while ranchers try to slow their growth rate to give themselves more flexibility."It's been a long, long, hard haul here since March and all this kind of started," said Drinnin, who serves on the board of the Nebraska Cattlemen trade group. "It's just been quite the struggle for everybody."Pig farmers have been hit especially hard by the backlog because of the tight capacity on their farms. It has led some to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a2e4f0cd7f0675271e9771015f31efea" target="_blank">euthanize pigs</a>&nbsp;to create space in their barns."As farmers we're always trying to plan for the future, and it's just impossible right now," said Mike Paustian, the president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. "The only thing that's certain is that this problem is not going to go away anytime soon."Largely because poultry plants are more automated, they didn't see as many virus outbreaks and closures, with production only falling about 5%, Sawyer said. The plants that did close temporarily were also smaller than some of the beef and pork plants that closed.As&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/83ef6383e6a437aae20962e3c9de8855" target="_blank">meat plants</a>&nbsp;scale up to full capacity, companies still must ensure that plants don't again become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3245fe475b5552e493cfeb288ce04131" target="_blank">hotbeds of infections</a>, said Mark Lauritsen, director of the food processing and meatpacking division for the United Food and Commercial Workers International union. The union represents roughly 80% of the country's beef and pork workers and 33% of its poultry workers."We're still seeing outbreaks," Lauritsen said. "It's a strange virus because it's hard to say where it will pop up next."Lauritsen said many plants where hundreds of employees became infected have reopened since implementing safety measures. But other plants, like a JBS beef plant in Hyrum, Utah, are just now seeing outbreaks. The plant, where mass testing revealed that 287 employees had COVID-19 this week, has had to slow some of its operations, but it remains open.The union estimates that 13,150 U.S. meatpacking plant workers been infected or exposed to the coronavirus and 57 have died of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.As plants scale up to full capacity, Lauritsen said he's concerned they will ease up on safety measures.Worker shortages also still seem be a problem at some plants, with many employees cautiously returning to work. One labor staffing company in Arkansas, TEC Staffing Services, has held "drive thru hiring events" for poultry plants, seeking to fill hundreds of open positions.Marisol Avelar, who works at a JBS pork plant in Worthington, Minnesota, said dozens of people are missing every day from her shift on the production line. When she was called back to work last month after the plant temporarily closed, her fears were somewhat assuaged by the safety measures the company had taken. She's still nervous, though, because of talk about infected workers."The company has done a lot of work trying to keep everyone safe, but people have continued getting infected," she said.

Meatpacking rebounds but high prices and backlogs to persist

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– The state of Nebraska has released data from its first round of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">Test Nebraska&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;testing, the snapshot summary can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/TestNebraska-Summary.pdf" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;

“From the time we launched Test Nebraska in early May, our goal has been to provide Nebraska residents with easy access to testing to help stem the spread of COVID-19 in our state," said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Anthone “We are pleased with the response, and we are working to help more communities access testing each day. Widespread testing is a proven, effective way to combat virus spread. The more data we have about where and how the virus is spreading, the faster we can respond and the faster we can return to a more familiar state of normalcy here in Nebraska."

The statistics below reflect the number of Nebraskans tested daily for COVID-19 throughout the month of May:

May 5:45&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;May 11:649&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 17:700&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 23:1,341&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

May 29:1,097&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 6:260&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 12:444&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 18:1,103

May 24:1,113&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 30:1,324&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 7:572&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 13:913&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

May 19:1,328&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 25:562&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 31:1,957&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;May 8:676

May 14:1,030&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;May 20:1,189&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 26:0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 9:313&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 15:724

May 21:1,554&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 27:1,145&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 10:311&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 16:449&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 22:1,341&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 28:1,712

Number of positive and negative test results to date

A total of 886 Nebraska residents tested positive for COVID-19 during the month of May. A total of 1,106 Nebraska residents have received positive test results since testing began May 4. Negative test results during the month of May totaled 23,170. A total of 26,126 people tested have received negative test results since testing began. Inconclusive results were shared with 45 people during the Month of May; 48 inconclusive results have come back since the start of testing.

Nebraska residents completed a total of 248,225 assessments throughout the month of May. The cumulative total of assessments completed is 405,595. These statistics represent the number of people who fully completed assessments to determine their eligibility to receive a test for COVID-19 to date. The average turnaround time for tests to return results was 49.9 hours during the Month of May; it has taken an average of 46.7 hours to receive test results since the start of testing.

“This report is further evidence that Test Nebraska is working. During May alone, Test Nebraska tested over 27,000 Nebraskans as we continue scaling upwards to reach our goals," said Nomi Health Chief Operating Officer Joshua Walker.

May testing locations included: Grand Island, Beatrice, Clay Center, Dakota City, Hastings, Kearney, Lexington, Lincoln LEC, Lincoln Regional Center, Norfolk, North Platte, Omaha CHI, Omaha College of St. Mary, Schuyler, Scotts Bluff, Seward, Thedford, West Point and York.

Test Nebraska encourages any Nebraska residents who have participated in the recent protests to get tested for COVID-19 to help inform whether those persons test positive and should self-quarantine for 14 days to prevent the spread of the disease.

Nebraskans can complete an assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/es" target="_blank">Testnebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish. Once the assessment is completed, applicants will receive an email from Test Nebraska informing them of eligibility. For those who are eligible, the email will direct them to select the location, date and time that is convenient for them.&nbsp; A confirmation email will include a bar code, which residents need to print off and bring with them to the testing site. The assessment can be completed via computer or by phone. If an individual does not have Internet access, a relative or friend can help them complete the assessment. Testing sites can now accommodate up to 3,000 tests per day.

A&nbsp;Test Nebraska hotline&nbsp;was established to help those completing an assessment get answers to general questions (402) 207-9377.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

DHHS opened a&nbsp;statewide COVID-19 information line&nbsp;to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is&nbsp;(402) 552-6645&nbsp;or toll-free at&nbsp;(833) 998-2275; hours of operation are&nbsp;8 a.m.&nbsp;to&nbsp;8 p.m.&nbsp;CDT,&nbsp;7 days a week.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– The state of Nebraska has released data from its first round of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">Test Nebraska&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;testing, the snapshot summary can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/TestNebraska-Summary.pdf" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;“From the time we launched Test Nebraska in early May, our goal has been to provide Nebraska residents with easy access to testing to help stem the spread of COVID-19 in our state," said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Anthone “We are pleased with the response, and we are working to help more communities access testing each day. Widespread testing is a proven, effective way to combat virus spread. The more data we have about where and how the virus is spreading, the faster we can respond and the faster we can return to a more familiar state of normalcy here in Nebraska."The statistics below reflect the number of Nebraskans tested daily for COVID-19 throughout the month of May:May 5:45&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;May 11:649&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 17:700&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 23:1,341&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 29:1,097&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 6:260&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 12:444&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 18:1,103May 24:1,113&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 30:1,324&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 7:572&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 13:913&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 19:1,328&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 25:562&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 31:1,957&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;May 8:676May 14:1,030&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;May 20:1,189&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 26:0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 9:313&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 15:724May 21:1,554&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 27:1,145&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 10:311&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 16:449&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; May 22:1,341&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;May 28:1,712Number of positive and negative test results to dateA total of 886 Nebraska residents tested positive for COVID-19 during the month of May. A total of 1,106 Nebraska residents have received positive test results since testing began May 4. Negative test results during the month of May totaled 23,170. A total of 26,126 people tested have received negative test results since testing began. Inconclusive results were shared with 45 people during the Month of May; 48 inconclusive results have come back since the start of testing.Nebraska residents completed a total of 248,225 assessments throughout the month of May. The cumulative total of assessments completed is 405,595. These statistics represent the number of people who fully completed assessments to determine their eligibility to receive a test for COVID-19 to date. The average turnaround time for tests to return results was 49.9 hours during the Month of May; it has taken an average of 46.7 hours to receive test results since the start of testing.“This report is further evidence that Test Nebraska is working. During May alone, Test Nebraska tested over 27,000 Nebraskans as we continue scaling upwards to reach our goals," said Nomi Health Chief Operating Officer Joshua Walker.Testing Locations – May 2020May testing locations included: Grand Island, Beatrice, Clay Center, Dakota City, Hastings, Kearney, Lexington, Lincoln LEC, Lincoln Regional Center, Norfolk, North Platte, Omaha CHI, Omaha College of St. Mary, Schuyler, Scotts Bluff, Seward, Thedford, West Point and York.Test Nebraska encourages any Nebraska residents who have participated in the recent protests to get tested for COVID-19 to help inform whether those persons test positive and should self-quarantine for 14 days to prevent the spread of the disease.Nebraskans can complete an assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/en" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/es" target="_blank">Testnebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish. Once the assessment is completed, applicants will receive an email from Test Nebraska informing them of eligibility. For those who are eligible, the email will direct them to select the location, date and time that is convenient for them.&nbsp; A confirmation email will include a bar code, which residents need to print off and bring with them to the testing site. The assessment can be completed via computer or by phone. If an individual does not have Internet access, a relative or friend can help them complete the assessment. Testing sites can now accommodate up to 3,000 tests per day.A&nbsp;Test Nebraska hotline&nbsp;was established to help those completing an assessment get answers to general questions (402) 207-9377.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a&nbsp;statewide COVID-19 information line&nbsp;to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is&nbsp;(402) 552-6645&nbsp;or toll-free at&nbsp;(833) 998-2275; hours of operation are&nbsp;8 a.m.&nbsp;to&nbsp;8 p.m.&nbsp;CDT,&nbsp;7 days a week.&nbsp;

TestNebraska releases May statistics

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska potentially faces nearly $3.7 billion in agricultural losses from the coronavirus pandemic if economic conditions do not improve, the Nebraska Farm Bureau said Wednesday.

Its estimate projects revenue losses for this year's commodities, including corn, soybeans, wheat, beef cattle and pork production, as well as dairy and ethanol products, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/business/agriculture/potential-covid-19-nebraska-ag-losses-pegged-at-3-7-billion/article_46059b74-9eef-5f6e-bb3d-ae537df2406e.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported.</a>&nbsp;It does not account for any financial assistance farmers and ranchers receive from COVID-19 relief programs.

Jay Rempe, the Nebraska Farm Bureau's senior economist, said the analysis "clearly demonstrates the magnitude of the financial challenges currently facing farm and ranch families," adding that impact could be felt across the broader rural economy.

The analysis pegs potential estimated losses in the beef cattle sector at nearly $1 billion in 2020. Potential corn and soybean losses were estimated at $1.17 billion.

Losses in the ethanol sector could reach $1.3 billion, assuming that ethanol plants are unable to operate at more than 75% of capacity for the remainder of the year.

Other potential losses: pork, $166 million; dairy, $66 million; wheat, $8.7 million.

"Farmers and ranchers are really struggling," Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson said.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska potentially faces nearly $3.7 billion in agricultural losses from the coronavirus pandemic if economic conditions do not improve, the Nebraska Farm Bureau said Wednesday.Its estimate projects revenue losses for this year's commodities, including corn, soybeans, wheat, beef cattle and pork production, as well as dairy and ethanol products, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/business/agriculture/potential-covid-19-nebraska-ag-losses-pegged-at-3-7-billion/article_46059b74-9eef-5f6e-bb3d-ae537df2406e.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reported.</a>&nbsp;It does not account for any financial assistance farmers and ranchers receive from COVID-19 relief programs.Jay Rempe, the Nebraska Farm Bureau's senior economist, said the analysis "clearly demonstrates the magnitude of the financial challenges currently facing farm and ranch families," adding that impact could be felt across the broader rural economy.The analysis pegs potential estimated losses in the beef cattle sector at nearly $1 billion in 2020. Potential corn and soybean losses were estimated at $1.17 billion.Losses in the ethanol sector could reach $1.3 billion, assuming that ethanol plants are unable to operate at more than 75% of capacity for the remainder of the year.Other potential losses: pork, $166 million; dairy, $66 million; wheat, $8.7 million."Farmers and ranchers are really struggling," Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson said.

Potential Nebraska ag losses pegged at $3.7B from pandemic

NORTH PLATTE, Neb-Officials with the West Central District Health Department reported another confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Wednesday.

This is a female in her 50s, actively isolating at home. This case is still under investigation.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb-Officials with the West Central District Health Department reported another confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Wednesday.This is a female in her 50s, actively isolating at home. This case is still under investigation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591841857034.png" alt="covid update 6 10 20.png" />
 <figcaption>covid update 6 10 20.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

Lincoln County woman in her 50s tests positive for COVID-19

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - At least five soldiers and one police officer who helped with crowd control at recent protests in Omaha and Lincoln have tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said.

Nearly 600 members of the Nebraska National Guard were assigned to assist law enforcement agencies beginning May 31 following several nights of protests in Nebraska after the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The National Guard announced earlier this week that it would test all its personnel who had been on duty in Omaha and Lincoln&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f5bf1c93328982cc11a0a6140f1885a1" target="_blank">after two members tested positive</a>.

The Nebraska National Guard said Tuesday that a total of five of its members who worked the protests have now tested positive. The Lincoln Police Department said one officer also tested positive.

Nebraska prisons officials meanwhile announced that another prison staffer tested positive for the virus, bringing the total number of staffers infected across the state prison system to 19. The state Department of Correctional Services also announced late Tuesday that it would offer coronavirus testing to all state inmates, even those who don't have symptoms.

That announcement came after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a1f452963ed7f4938cfdd4346570d545" target="_blank">seven inmates</a>&nbsp;at the Omaha Community Corrections Center recently tested positive for the virus.

Numbers provided by Nebraska state health officials show three new COVID-19 deaths were reported Tuesday, bringing the state's death toll to 191. Nebraska's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">online coronavirus tracker</a>&nbsp;also shows 121 new cases were reported Tuesday, bringing the state's total to 15,883.

More then 125,000 people in Nebraska have been tested, and hospital capacity appeared relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 43% of intensive care unit beds and 78% of ventilators available for use.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the highly contagious virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - At least five soldiers and one police officer who helped with crowd control at recent protests in Omaha and Lincoln have tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said.Nearly 600 members of the Nebraska National Guard were assigned to assist law enforcement agencies beginning May 31 following several nights of protests in Nebraska after the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The National Guard announced earlier this week that it would test all its personnel who had been on duty in Omaha and Lincoln&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f5bf1c93328982cc11a0a6140f1885a1" target="_blank">after two members tested positive</a>.The Nebraska National Guard said Tuesday that a total of five of its members who worked the protests have now tested positive. The Lincoln Police Department said one officer also tested positive.Nebraska prisons officials meanwhile announced that another prison staffer tested positive for the virus, bringing the total number of staffers infected across the state prison system to 19. The state Department of Correctional Services also announced late Tuesday that it would offer coronavirus testing to all state inmates, even those who don't have symptoms.That announcement came after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a1f452963ed7f4938cfdd4346570d545" target="_blank">seven inmates</a>&nbsp;at the Omaha Community Corrections Center recently tested positive for the virus.Numbers provided by Nebraska state health officials show three new COVID-19 deaths were reported Tuesday, bringing the state's death toll to 191. Nebraska's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">online coronavirus tracker</a>&nbsp;also shows 121 new cases were reported Tuesday, bringing the state's total to 15,883.More then 125,000 people in Nebraska have been tested, and hospital capacity appeared relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 43% of intensive care unit beds and 78% of ventilators available for use.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the highly contagious virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal.

Soldiers, officer who worked Nebraska protests test positive

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Coronavirus restrictions force cancellation of 'Band, Brews & BBQs' in Cozad

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department are reporting a new confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.

Officials, on Tuesday, said the newest case is a male in his teen who is actively recovering at home.

There have now been 51 confirmed cases of the virus in Lincoln County. No patients with the virus are currently hospitalized.

The case is still under investigation, according to WCDHD.

Test
Nebraska will be in North Platte on Saturday, June 13th
from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m CST. They will be located at the North Platte
School Bus Barn.

If
you are interested in testing, please sign up with Test Nebraska at
this link:
https://covid19testingne.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cJa8ezYYRQfZRCl

“Test
Nebraska provides an opportunity to expand our testing capacity. The
more we test, the more we can determine the prevalence of disease
circulating throughout our community. This better equips us in
mitigating the spread of COVID-19”, said Shannon Vanderheiden,
Executive Director of WCDHD.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department are reporting a new confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.Officials, on Tuesday, said the newest case is a male in his teen who is actively recovering at home.There have now been 51 confirmed cases of the virus in Lincoln County. No patients with the virus are currently hospitalized.The case is still under investigation, according to WCDHD.Test
Nebraska will be in North Platte on Saturday, June 13th
from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m CST. They will be located at the North Platte
School Bus Barn.If
you are interested in testing, please sign up with Test Nebraska at
this link:
https://covid19testingne.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cJa8ezYYRQfZRCl“Test
Nebraska provides an opportunity to expand our testing capacity. The
more we test, the more we can determine the prevalence of disease
circulating throughout our community. This better equips us in
mitigating the spread of COVID-19”, said Shannon Vanderheiden,
Executive Director of WCDHD.<figure>
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New case of COVID-19 confirmed in Lincoln County

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two members of the Nebraska National Guard who helped police during protests have tested positive for coronavirus, and the Guard says they plan to test all its personnel still on duty in Omaha and Lincoln.

The Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/health/two-members-of-national-guard-who-assisted-lincoln-police-during-protests-test-positive-for-coronavirus/article_f497c0b0-97e6-5d1d-b0e8-c1154efac14f.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reports</a>&nbsp;nearly 600 members of the National Guard were assigned to assist law enforcement agencies beginning May 31 following several nights of protests in Nebraska after the police killing of George Floyd in Minnesota.

The two guard members who began to show symptoms of COVID-19 on Saturday were tested through Test Nebraska, which confirmed they contracted the virus.

"They are isolating, and we are now going to test all of the personnel still on duty for this mission in Lincoln or Omaha," said Maj. Scott Ingalsbe, public affairs officer for the Nebraska National Guard.

While the National Guard made adjustments to follow social distancing guidelines the best it could, and asked members to wear masks, Ingalsbe said it "was not always feasible" while they were working.

Ingalsbe said the National Guard will wrap up its role supporting police in Lincoln and Omaha, as well as the Nebraska State Patrol, on Tuesday.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two members of the Nebraska National Guard who helped police during protests have tested positive for coronavirus, and the Guard says they plan to test all its personnel still on duty in Omaha and Lincoln.The Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/health/two-members-of-national-guard-who-assisted-lincoln-police-during-protests-test-positive-for-coronavirus/article_f497c0b0-97e6-5d1d-b0e8-c1154efac14f.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">reports</a>&nbsp;nearly 600 members of the National Guard were assigned to assist law enforcement agencies beginning May 31 following several nights of protests in Nebraska after the police killing of George Floyd in Minnesota.The two guard members who began to show symptoms of COVID-19 on Saturday were tested through Test Nebraska, which confirmed they contracted the virus."They are isolating, and we are now going to test all of the personnel still on duty for this mission in Lincoln or Omaha," said Maj. Scott Ingalsbe, public affairs officer for the Nebraska National Guard.While the National Guard made adjustments to follow social distancing guidelines the best it could, and asked members to wear masks, Ingalsbe said it "was not always feasible" while they were working.Ingalsbe said the National Guard will wrap up its role supporting police in Lincoln and Omaha, as well as the Nebraska State Patrol, on Tuesday.

2 Nebraska National Guard members test positive for COVID-19

COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte on June 8, 2020

COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte on June 8, 2020<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F702537463656547%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte (June 8, 2020)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Two children in Nebraska have been diagnosed with a rare and serious inflammatory condition that's linked to the new coronavirus.

Last week, a 9-year-old Lexington boy was diagnosed with the condition. On Monday, the Douglas County Health Department announced that a child under 12 has been hospitalized with the condition.

That news came as the one-day total of new coronavirus cases in the state dropped to under 100 for the first time since May 10. Nebraska's online coronavirus tracking&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">dashboard&nbsp;</a>shows 91 new cases were reported Sunday, to bring the state's total to 15,634. Officials say 188 people in Nebraska have died from COVID-19.

Nearly 122,000 people in Nebraska have been tested, and hospital capacity was stable, with 45% of hospital beds, 46% of intensive care unit beds and 78% of ventilators available for use.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Two children in Nebraska have been diagnosed with a rare and serious inflammatory condition that's linked to the new coronavirus.Last week, a 9-year-old Lexington boy was diagnosed with the condition. On Monday, the Douglas County Health Department announced that a child under 12 has been hospitalized with the condition.That news came as the one-day total of new coronavirus cases in the state dropped to under 100 for the first time since May 10. Nebraska's online coronavirus tracking&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">dashboard&nbsp;</a>shows 91 new cases were reported Sunday, to bring the state's total to 15,634. Officials say 188 people in Nebraska have died from COVID-19.Nearly 122,000 people in Nebraska have been tested, and hospital capacity was stable, with 45% of hospital beds, 46% of intensive care unit beds and 78% of ventilators available for use.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the highly contagious virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal.

2 Nebraska children diagnosed with condition linked to virus

LINCOLN (DHHS)-During the past seven days, the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state increased by 16 to 186, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) data dashboard.

The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time today, is 15,193, marking an increase of 1,539 from last Friday. Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.

The DHHS COVID-19&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">data dashboard&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;has undergone several improvements since appearing on the DHHS public Web site on March 27. And that work is continuing.

This Monday, additional “tabs" of information were added. The tabs included deaths, recoveries and demographic information like age and gender for positive cases and hospitalized cases. The improvement joins past additions to the data dashboard that describe hospital capacity, and other improvements.

At Governor Pete Ricketts' daily coronavirus briefing May 29, Gov. Ricketts was joined by DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith, who said DHHS is working to compile data from four sources that would track race and ethnicity as they relate to COVID-19. These improved data breakdowns are expected on the dashboard at the end of the month.

While measures continue in Nebraska to manage the spread of COVID-19, passage of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on March 27 will support child care and out-of-school learning initiatives in Nebraska. Specifically, $20 million has been allocated to the state.

Stephanie L. Beasley, director of the DHHS Division of Children and Family Services spoke June 1 at Gov. Pete Ricketts' regular COVID-19 briefing to break out how the money will be used.

The&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/DHHS-Announces-Initiatives-to-use-CARES-Act-Funding-to-Aid-Child-Care-Providers.aspx">full news release on the CARES Act can be read here,</a>&nbsp;and the high points follow:

The Child Care Relief Fund was established to offer grants of $1,000 to meet the needs of child care providers. The relief fund application was released to providers on April 8, 2020.

2. Child Care Provider Stabilization Grant Funds

DHHS will award Child Care Stabilization grants to help make up lost income for providers caring for fewer children in accordance with COVID-19 Directed Health Measures (DHMs). Providers will need to meet requirements, submit an application and be in good standing with DHHS.

3. Incentive-to-Reopen Child Care Programs Grant

DHHS will also be award Incentive to Reopen Child Care Program Grants. Priority for these grants will be given to providers who are in good standing with DHHS and meet certain criteria. Some family child care homes are eligible for a one-time grant of $2,000 and some child care centers eligible for a one-time grant of $3,000. Providers aren't eligible for both the stabilization grant and this grant.

4. Nebraska Child Care Referral Network Website

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechildcarereferral.org/" target="_blank">Child Care Referral Network website&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;was created to help families find safe, high quality, licensed child care. The searchable database connects working parents with providers that have open child care spots. DHHS is planning to improve data-collection and the technology platform to sustain the network and build it into the existing Nebraska child care resource and referral system.

5. Afterschool and Summer Learning for School Age Children

DHHS will use CARES Act funding for future collaboration between DHHS and the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation's Beyond School Bells initiative, which supports expanded learning opportunities. Discussions about potential initiatives are underway.

Still a key part of the state's game plan to monitor and mitigate COVID-19,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;expanded this week into western regions of Nebraska. In the coming week, more testing stations will be set up in the state:

Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/8-6/13&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-6pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St.

Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/8-6/9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-6pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4100 N. 84th St.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-6pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4920 S 30th St.

Norfolk&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6-6/7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1010 S 8th St.

St. Paul&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6-6/7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Howard County Fairgrounds, 1381 Hwy 281

Sidney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2103 Illinois St.

Oshkosh&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10am-2pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;115 W 1st St.

Grand Island&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/8-6/9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fonner Park Fieldhouse, 700 E Stolley Park Rd.

Winnebago&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10am-2pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public School Bus Barn, 107 w Osborn

Crete&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/10-6/11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public Works Building, 320 W 9th St.

McCook&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/10&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Red Willow Fairgrounds, W 5th

Imperial&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;921 Broadway St.

Ogallala&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1501 W 5th St.

Dakota City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/12-6/13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dakota City Fire Hall, 208 S 21st St.

Springfield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/12-6/13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12 pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sarpy County Fairgrounds, 100 Main St.

Lexington&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/13-6/14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;801 W Vine St.

North Platte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/13-6/14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;North Platte Bus Facility, 1200 Industrial Ave.

West Point&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Location TBD

The State has announced that it will begin phasing in test scheduling for all Nebraska residents, including those who previously completed the online assessment, but did not qualify to complete the test.

“We want to ensure every Nebraskan knows that if they are concerned they may have been exposed, they can have the opportunity to schedule a test," said Director of Public Health and Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services Dr. Gary Anthone. “The best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 is through aggressive testing and contact tracing and we continue to expand our capabilities across the state."

Testing candidates who may have previously tested negative, but are now presenting new symptoms that could result in a positive test are encouraged to complete an updated assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtvIKv9wcJjKSAiJyAui-2FM0WFKW_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqhchTCrcxqOw1p7G-2BxvQo6WW-2Ff3dLEPG-2BUHWfr4FNGDKvPwdbO6XmIfo3biz31YmTOFlrrwgtKBC-2FaFclpaMnuKSXmwHPBhxuHxRdL0wvMW7RqVtfwmkN34lEzOZQAlHfzSVIXe1pxAax9uB2f8VFBNB-2Br-2FfaAHf3o-2B70RoYHN7XhCHQzWAj48ZsmiPeIg3cIs-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104390029&amp;sdata=MFJ1kMraQSLQlqGCLCMPyHq2P3V08UkNgQ9Q%2BBvZ%2Bjo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtonv2dAraJGoLmcHeyZVf9iQmk_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqg5j1r18OWLz6GbmlzLpuFEK4jkCY3BfgDhtvgWpJVLFHX6GxTyRp-2FXLqv4W29aKQ9NG40LZNAlud018t5TUrZRwcQblIqFMuZQRzBIJ6ziig5-2F-2Bdrj6CkIqeOV-2BByASaoTF-2FT0pCA-2F4LZ5D6n-2F2cdnQSazc5HMeMkyVEr1en3DE2NVEvPCS2Rzo74JI-2B4E0G8-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104399977&amp;sdata=TwmNTtJdAQBb9eNDkUanqmLEnrtq5CNUocwTv2Hp630%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish.

To ensure test scheduling occurs in an orderly manner as testing is phased in for all, people aged 15 to 35 in Douglas, Lancaster, and Sarpy counties can now schedule a test. This is in addition to the following priority categories already open for scheduling a test: first responders, health care providers, meatpacking workers, military employees, anyone working in a long-term care facility or nursing home, anyone 65 years old and over, and anyone who has been around someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Additionally, there is no longer limiting criteria for any individuals living in the state's remaining 93 counties to schedule a test.

Individuals must still go to the website&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtvIKv9wcJjKSAiJyAui-2FM03zXn_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqgesyOUg0fK9xLKdBKGi3-2BJN8KtFI0jkvaqx-2FT1wShQYf7L4LF-2B7FeypX92EuD01q1hukt22iUyLIL-2BrItMTMRhbn7ngFJFUKGjcvj0FrJlVcXsrMp-2FSFNHzG7asdScd6-2Fh88jxwfa9cwq-2F0zVBfmdn-2FrvWsfHySfwH1oBY9rSM36MQvbhVvr2jHYGnvH0qEqI-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104399977&amp;sdata=s/WeIeuhv%2BXWQDYBimvt9yweYyGVvri/i0CRe18riY8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtonv2dAraJGoLmcHeyZVf9zuuP_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqjUhzfB7dlAUHk1I14Sh04p1WGr0TFUJ7mLr6lJ4etYwRZAi0IibZZ1I56pzjKYfYfHHTXLfG5jh90suCUqGgbJQAFTaK6XLtzvpuGHneXA0FVRvTLWDKnnjh-2Bm0SzNjsFflo-2FKtf8wgDajYCqTJYQftaHKEhRGXsU9-2BlyZ60Fbm4GsN7L3FJd7V3d1jVYTiYY-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104409942&amp;sdata=trHPjDqi8ojaUDevLGgAmjszwsmYJTvKe1%2BR6wbgiZ8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish and complete an assessment to schedule an appointment for testing.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645 or toll-free at (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week. DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19." target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19.</a>

LINCOLN (DHHS)-During the past seven days, the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state increased by 16 to 186, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) data dashboard.The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time today, is 15,193, marking an increase of 1,539 from last Friday. Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.Additions to DHHS Data DashboardThe DHHS COVID-19&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">data dashboard&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;has undergone several improvements since appearing on the DHHS public Web site on March 27. And that work is continuing.This Monday, additional “tabs" of information were added. The tabs included deaths, recoveries and demographic information like age and gender for positive cases and hospitalized cases. The improvement joins past additions to the data dashboard that describe hospital capacity, and other improvements.At Governor Pete Ricketts' daily coronavirus briefing May 29, Gov. Ricketts was joined by DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith, who said DHHS is working to compile data from four sources that would track race and ethnicity as they relate to COVID-19. These improved data breakdowns are expected on the dashboard at the end of the month.The CARES ActWhile measures continue in Nebraska to manage the spread of COVID-19, passage of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on March 27 will support child care and out-of-school learning initiatives in Nebraska. Specifically, $20 million has been allocated to the state.Stephanie L. Beasley, director of the DHHS Division of Children and Family Services spoke June 1 at Gov. Pete Ricketts' regular COVID-19 briefing to break out how the money will be used.The&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/DHHS-Announces-Initiatives-to-use-CARES-Act-Funding-to-Aid-Child-Care-Providers.aspx">full news release on the CARES Act can be read here,</a>&nbsp;and the high points follow:1. Child Care Relief FundThe Child Care Relief Fund was established to offer grants of $1,000 to meet the needs of child care providers. The relief fund application was released to providers on April 8, 2020.2. Child Care Provider Stabilization Grant FundsDHHS will award Child Care Stabilization grants to help make up lost income for providers caring for fewer children in accordance with COVID-19 Directed Health Measures (DHMs). Providers will need to meet requirements, submit an application and be in good standing with DHHS.3. Incentive-to-Reopen Child Care Programs GrantDHHS will also be award Incentive to Reopen Child Care Program Grants. Priority for these grants will be given to providers who are in good standing with DHHS and meet certain criteria. Some family child care homes are eligible for a one-time grant of $2,000 and some child care centers eligible for a one-time grant of $3,000. Providers aren't eligible for both the stabilization grant and this grant.4. Nebraska Child Care Referral Network WebsiteA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechildcarereferral.org/" target="_blank">Child Care Referral Network website&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;was created to help families find safe, high quality, licensed child care. The searchable database connects working parents with providers that have open child care spots. DHHS is planning to improve data-collection and the technology platform to sustain the network and build it into the existing Nebraska child care resource and referral system.5. Afterschool and Summer Learning for School Age ChildrenDHHS will use CARES Act funding for future collaboration between DHHS and the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation's Beyond School Bells initiative, which supports expanded learning opportunities. Discussions about potential initiatives are underway.TestNebraskaStill a key part of the state's game plan to monitor and mitigate COVID-19,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;expanded this week into western regions of Nebraska. In the coming week, more testing stations will be set up in the state:Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/8-6/13&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-6pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St.Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/8-6/9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-6pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4100 N. 84th St.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-6pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4920 S 30th St.Norfolk&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6-6/7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1010 S 8th St.St. Paul&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6-6/7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Howard County Fairgrounds, 1381 Hwy 281Sidney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2103 Illinois St.Oshkosh&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10am-2pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;115 W 1st St.Grand Island&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/8-6/9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fonner Park Fieldhouse, 700 E Stolley Park Rd.Winnebago&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10am-2pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public School Bus Barn, 107 w OsbornCrete&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/10-6/11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public Works Building, 320 W 9th St.McCook&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/10&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Red Willow Fairgrounds, W 5thImperial&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;921 Broadway St.Ogallala&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1501 W 5th St.Dakota City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/12-6/13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dakota City Fire Hall, 208 S 21st St.Springfield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/12-6/13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12 pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sarpy County Fairgrounds, 100 Main St.Lexington&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/13-6/14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;801 W Vine St.North Platte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/13-6/14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;North Platte Bus Facility, 1200 Industrial Ave.West Point&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6/14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8am-12pm&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Location TBDThe State has announced that it will begin phasing in test scheduling for all Nebraska residents, including those who previously completed the online assessment, but did not qualify to complete the test.“We want to ensure every Nebraskan knows that if they are concerned they may have been exposed, they can have the opportunity to schedule a test," said Director of Public Health and Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services Dr. Gary Anthone. “The best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 is through aggressive testing and contact tracing and we continue to expand our capabilities across the state."Testing candidates who may have previously tested negative, but are now presenting new symptoms that could result in a positive test are encouraged to complete an updated assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtvIKv9wcJjKSAiJyAui-2FM0WFKW_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqhchTCrcxqOw1p7G-2BxvQo6WW-2Ff3dLEPG-2BUHWfr4FNGDKvPwdbO6XmIfo3biz31YmTOFlrrwgtKBC-2FaFclpaMnuKSXmwHPBhxuHxRdL0wvMW7RqVtfwmkN34lEzOZQAlHfzSVIXe1pxAax9uB2f8VFBNB-2Br-2FfaAHf3o-2B70RoYHN7XhCHQzWAj48ZsmiPeIg3cIs-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104390029&amp;sdata=MFJ1kMraQSLQlqGCLCMPyHq2P3V08UkNgQ9Q%2BBvZ%2Bjo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtonv2dAraJGoLmcHeyZVf9iQmk_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqg5j1r18OWLz6GbmlzLpuFEK4jkCY3BfgDhtvgWpJVLFHX6GxTyRp-2FXLqv4W29aKQ9NG40LZNAlud018t5TUrZRwcQblIqFMuZQRzBIJ6ziig5-2F-2Bdrj6CkIqeOV-2BByASaoTF-2FT0pCA-2F4LZ5D6n-2F2cdnQSazc5HMeMkyVEr1en3DE2NVEvPCS2Rzo74JI-2B4E0G8-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104399977&amp;sdata=TwmNTtJdAQBb9eNDkUanqmLEnrtq5CNUocwTv2Hp630%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish.To ensure test scheduling occurs in an orderly manner as testing is phased in for all, people aged 15 to 35 in Douglas, Lancaster, and Sarpy counties can now schedule a test. This is in addition to the following priority categories already open for scheduling a test: first responders, health care providers, meatpacking workers, military employees, anyone working in a long-term care facility or nursing home, anyone 65 years old and over, and anyone who has been around someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.Additionally, there is no longer limiting criteria for any individuals living in the state's remaining 93 counties to schedule a test.Individuals must still go to the website&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtvIKv9wcJjKSAiJyAui-2FM03zXn_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqgesyOUg0fK9xLKdBKGi3-2BJN8KtFI0jkvaqx-2FT1wShQYf7L4LF-2B7FeypX92EuD01q1hukt22iUyLIL-2BrItMTMRhbn7ngFJFUKGjcvj0FrJlVcXsrMp-2FSFNHzG7asdScd6-2Fh88jxwfa9cwq-2F0zVBfmdn-2FrvWsfHySfwH1oBY9rSM36MQvbhVvr2jHYGnvH0qEqI-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104399977&amp;sdata=s/WeIeuhv%2BXWQDYBimvt9yweYyGVvri/i0CRe18riY8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcIyia7RQ7MZztfGec9aiUNCtonv2dAraJGoLmcHeyZVf9zuuP_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1fpSPYgamQ6VbY5AX1CSrXRrksh5-2BFgBI4HALhPthQMuQ168HirseFv2iZK3dWExmvZkfCDio1QwidH5N0L7owc39D68qslE7SwPxZbvJvqjUhzfB7dlAUHk1I14Sh04p1WGr0TFUJ7mLr6lJ4etYwRZAi0IibZZ1I56pzjKYfYfHHTXLfG5jh90suCUqGgbJQAFTaK6XLtzvpuGHneXA0FVRvTLWDKnnjh-2Bm0SzNjsFflo-2FKtf8wgDajYCqTJYQftaHKEhRGXsU9-2BlyZ60Fbm4GsN7L3FJd7V3d1jVYTiYY-3D&amp;data=02%7c01%7cLeah.Bucco-White%40nebraska.gov%7c957fbd0f83a9444f4a7a08d808ccd3b2%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637269023104409942&amp;sdata=trHPjDqi8ojaUDevLGgAmjszwsmYJTvKe1%2BR6wbgiZ8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska/es&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for Spanish and complete an assessment to schedule an appointment for testing.&nbsp; &nbsp;General InformationHere's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645 or toll-free at (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week. DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19." target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19.</a>

DHHS reports 16 deaths, 1,539 new cases in past week

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department is reporting two new positive cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.

One individual is a female in her 80s, actively isolating at home. This case is community spread.

The other individual is a male in his teens, actively isolating at home. This case is still under investigation.

WCDHD local dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR2zBC62UcgVeypPtjCcuRxfZBbJLGzD89GDBodLbLzTBT_67VFEf4Bk1ms#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Dashboard1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591413763109.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department is reporting two new positive cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.One individual is a female in her 80s, actively isolating at home. This case is community spread.The other individual is a male in his teens, actively isolating at home. This case is still under investigation.WCDHD local dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR2zBC62UcgVeypPtjCcuRxfZBbJLGzD89GDBodLbLzTBT_67VFEf4Bk1ms#!/vizhome/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Dashboard1?publish=yes" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

WCDHD reports 2 new COVID-19 cases in Lincoln County

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Beginning Monday, June 8, Great Plains Health will lift certain visitor restrictions to patients in the hospital, emergency department, outpatient departments and clinics. Visitor restrictions were enhanced in April to a no-visitor policy in order to protect patients, visitors and staff from the spread of COVID-19.

“We understand how important visitors can be in the recovery process of our patients,” said Mel McNea, chief executive officer. “Great Plains Health is moving forward with a safe and smart plan to resume limited visitation at our hospital and clinics while continuing to protect the health of our patients, visitors and staff. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support and understanding.”

Effective Monday, June 8, 2020, Great Plains Health’s updated visitation guidelines will include:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inpatient: One adult visitor during daily visitor hours 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Outpatient departments, clinics, Cancer Center and same day services will be allowed one support person to accompany the patient.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emergency department: One support person may accompany emergency department patients 24/7.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Behavioral health services: One adult visitor during visitor hours 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NICU and pediatric patients are allowed two parents 24/7

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Post-partum patients are allowed one support person upon admission, to remain through discharge.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special circumstances, such as end of life.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There will be no visitors allowed for confirmed positive COVID-19 patients, those patients awaiting COVID-19 test results or other patients on isolation precautions.

All visitors and support persons must be 19 or older and will be required to clear a health screening, including a temperature check. Any visitor or support person that shows symptoms or has a temperature higher than 100 degrees, will not be allowed to visit or accompany the patient.

Visitors and support persons are asked to bring their own cloth mask or face covering to wear throughout their entire visit.

The cafeteria and coffee shop are closed to the general public, but open to individuals that are onsite to support a patient.

“We feel confident in relaxing our visitor policy at this time," said Tina Pate, chief nursing officer. "We are taking it one day at a time as we slowly return to this new normal. We know that, at any time, the situation could change and we may revert back to a more restrictive policy if that happens.”

Great Plains Health continues to work closely with local and state public health officials and regularly reviews policies to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, staff and the community.

News Release GPH&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Beginning Monday, June 8, Great Plains Health will lift certain visitor restrictions to patients in the hospital, emergency department, outpatient departments and clinics. Visitor restrictions were enhanced in April to a no-visitor policy in order to protect patients, visitors and staff from the spread of COVID-19.“We understand how important visitors can be in the recovery process of our patients,” said Mel McNea, chief executive officer. “Great Plains Health is moving forward with a safe and smart plan to resume limited visitation at our hospital and clinics while continuing to protect the health of our patients, visitors and staff. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support and understanding.”Effective Monday, June 8, 2020, Great Plains Health’s updated visitation guidelines will include:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inpatient: One adult visitor during daily visitor hours 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Outpatient departments, clinics, Cancer Center and same day services will be allowed one support person to accompany the patient.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emergency department: One support person may accompany emergency department patients 24/7.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Behavioral health services: One adult visitor during visitor hours 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.These existing guidelines continue:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NICU and pediatric patients are allowed two parents 24/7·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Post-partum patients are allowed one support person upon admission, to remain through discharge.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special circumstances, such as end of life.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There will be no visitors allowed for confirmed positive COVID-19 patients, those patients awaiting COVID-19 test results or other patients on isolation precautions.All visitors and support persons must be 19 or older and will be required to clear a health screening, including a temperature check. Any visitor or support person that shows symptoms or has a temperature higher than 100 degrees, will not be allowed to visit or accompany the patient.Visitors and support persons are asked to bring their own cloth mask or face covering to wear throughout their entire visit.The cafeteria and coffee shop are closed to the general public, but open to individuals that are onsite to support a patient.“We feel confident in relaxing our visitor policy at this time," said Tina Pate, chief nursing officer. "We are taking it one day at a time as we slowly return to this new normal. We know that, at any time, the situation could change and we may revert back to a more restrictive policy if that happens.”Great Plains Health continues to work closely with local and state public health officials and regularly reviews policies to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, staff and the community.

Great Plains Health announces updated visitors policy

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More employees in Nebraska's prison system have tested positive for COVID-19, as state health figures show the overall number of cases in the state surpassing 15,000.

A news release Friday from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said two more state prisons employees tested positive this week for the virus, bringing the systemwide total to 18.

One of the two new cases is a staff member at the state prison at Tecumseh. The second was attending a staff training academy. The department said it will notify others at both locations about the new cases. Department officials also are directing anyone who may have had close contact with the infected staff members to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider.

Nebraska's online&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">coronavirus tracking portal</a>&nbsp;shows an additional 251 new cases of the virus reported Thursday, bringing the state's total to 15,117. State numbers show 186 total deaths from the virus. Nearly 115,000 people have been tested, and hospital capacity was relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 44% of intensive care unit beds and 75% of ventilators available for use.

For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - More employees in Nebraska's prison system have tested positive for COVID-19, as state health figures show the overall number of cases in the state surpassing 15,000.A news release Friday from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said two more state prisons employees tested positive this week for the virus, bringing the systemwide total to 18.One of the two new cases is a staff member at the state prison at Tecumseh. The second was attending a staff training academy. The department said it will notify others at both locations about the new cases. Department officials also are directing anyone who may have had close contact with the infected staff members to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider.Nebraska's online&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">coronavirus tracking portal</a>&nbsp;shows an additional 251 new cases of the virus reported Thursday, bringing the state's total to 15,117. State numbers show 186 total deaths from the virus. Nearly 115,000 people have been tested, and hospital capacity was relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 44% of intensive care unit beds and 75% of ventilators available for use.For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

More Nebraska prison employees test positive for COVID-19

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Fewer people filed new claims for unemployment in Nebraska last week, but the number is still higher than it was before the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Thursday.

The U.S. Department of Labor reported 5,135 new claims during the week that ended May 30, which is 677 less than the number filed the previous week.

The figures are still more than five times higher than they had been in early March, before the pandemic prompted state officials to impose social-distancing restrictions that forced many businesses to close.

Natoinally, 1.9 million people filed for unemployment last week.

Nebraska never imposed an official stay-at-home order, but many businesses were still forced to close because of state-mandated social distancing restrictions. Some of those restrictions have since been eased, and even more were relaxed on June 1.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Fewer people filed new claims for unemployment in Nebraska last week, but the number is still higher than it was before the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Thursday.The U.S. Department of Labor reported 5,135 new claims during the week that ended May 30, which is 677 less than the number filed the previous week.The figures are still more than five times higher than they had been in early March, before the pandemic prompted state officials to impose social-distancing restrictions that forced many businesses to close.Natoinally, 1.9 million people filed for unemployment last week.Nebraska never imposed an official stay-at-home order, but many businesses were still forced to close because of state-mandated social distancing restrictions. Some of those restrictions have since been eased, and even more were relaxed on June 1.

Nebraska sees fewer new jobless claims, but still high

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Six more people have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and state officials have confirmed 255 new cases, according to the state's online tracking portal.

The number of known cases rose to 14,866 and the number of deaths has reached 187 as of Wednesday night. More than 112,400 people have been tested.

Hospital capacity is relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 46% of intensive care unit beds and 75% of ventilators available for use.

Gov. Pete Ricketts had been scheduled to answer media questions about the coronavirus on Thursday but canceled it, saying he was doing so out of respect for the nationally televised memorial service of George Floyd, the black man whose death in Minneapolis police custody has triggered national protests.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Six more people have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and state officials have confirmed 255 new cases, according to the state's online tracking portal.The number of known cases rose to 14,866 and the number of deaths has reached 187 as of Wednesday night. More than 112,400 people have been tested.Hospital capacity is relatively stable, with 42% of hospital beds, 46% of intensive care unit beds and 75% of ventilators available for use.Gov. Pete Ricketts had been scheduled to answer media questions about the coronavirus on Thursday but canceled it, saying he was doing so out of respect for the nationally televised memorial service of George Floyd, the black man whose death in Minneapolis police custody has triggered national protests.For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

6 more virus deaths, 255 new cases reported in Nebraska

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-When you think of prom in the North Platte area, there is definitely one name that comes to mind, Hirschfeld's.

The Downtown North Platte staple, which was once strictly a men's clothing store, has expanded to become one of the premier prom and pageant shops in the region.

With the coronavirus pandemic stealing everyone's prom date this year, Hirschfeld's immediately announced that they would host a prom for area high school students once restrictions were lifted and people could again host larger gatherings.

On Wednesday, Hirschfeld's announced that they had set the dates for the events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591219353504.png" alt="Photo: Hirschfeld's Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Hirschfeld's Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-When you think of prom in the North Platte area, there is definitely one name that comes to mind, Hirschfeld's.The Downtown North Platte staple, which was once strictly a men's clothing store, has expanded to become one of the premier prom and pageant shops in the region.With the coronavirus pandemic stealing everyone's prom date this year, Hirschfeld's immediately announced that they would host a prom for area high school students once restrictions were lifted and people could again host larger gatherings.On Wednesday, Hirschfeld's announced that they had set the dates for the events.Hirschfeld's issued the following statement on their Facebook page:We are excited to finally have some firm dates set for our Community Proms. At this time we are hoping that this date will be a prom like normal, but we have to await the directed health measures for July. If in July dances are still prohibited, we intend to still hold an “alternative prom”. Our alternative prom plans could mean things like pictures, Grand March, dinner, fun games, prize giveaways, special entertainment, and more. While this would not be the ideal situation, we truly want to give students the opportunity to get dressed up, spend time together, have a great day and make fun memories before the end of the summer. Odds are things are not going to be the perfect prom-like kids knew before, but we feel something to look forward to is better than nothing. . Our website:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gotoprom2020.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0MduU7j4o8vg7Hr0zeGV7CDE4TF67dZ5rPLN_9IP87qz0HZoXh39P0s_0&amp;h=AT0BWSMvdDXzgRTE7p1femhqWhqiQyO0rxvX0YHAYeTj_gjDB4MOcpW67OOVyTFiU5cSDjnQTazz24TJDTj3eo-BL861lKIWluvzxfCQYplOGGNwbCDaeEiCk6Dg_c6_oI8jIs-82GaEV8uO9Pujf8g7-xU5BFJD8FZqvIuJxKHDR3uh1uGaWBJUTaj5-MEisSpY7mZ-HGra5zzVRUbs9PFHxa43xOkcPiW2U-DF2YkJO2smKg6Uf8aihVAroqLR5EJ2YZD8CXSbQ8mKvIVwmQlJvNHePDDAj6fUVIDKSqv0GzIPVzTbBcLdQoll341YV7RSQl9vnq3IM9179YkpOcxtY6EGRv6ysH0m9w0EAYfkNJ42BeWRMwgWYHXeBU6FYSNfcBaa4DLgM1_yIJdJJWCXLGKOMW5pvCwxeofWfu5pPNOH-5PMMWG_8OiqjZ1K2c3RAAjhz2a6AaHR6hfEwlQfKhHqF8-W9In8WWFwtUGS95JxDoPOW7guDNrj_1vy7h4CliAUywVNEnYTffWOhYn2WiepkhEYOZzVyrRg_TMkRpXtB7J10cXIQPH4_ZClDQ99svi9vbwJwV9YghzuDgJF338VZNesL6spspuqZGMHyFs2Wx0vpYUr" target="_blank">www.gotoprom2020.com</a>&nbsp;will be your best avenue for all information related to the Community Proms. Firm details, including start and end times, are still being worked out with each Community Prom Committee. As those details develop, the corresponding Community Prom pages on our website will be updated. We encourage you to check the website often throughout June. Right now getting a preliminary attendance count for each prom is important. If you plan to attend your community prom - please get on the website and submit the form on your Community Prom page. If you don’t see your community/school on our list that is because we are not involved in hosting that particular prom event. The proms on our list are happening through the organization and execution by parent groups for each event. We respect and 100% understand that some communities were not comfortable being involved in this type of event yet. We hope that those students will also respect and understand those tough decisions as well. . We also want to make it very clear to the community as a whole that we will diligently follow all directed health measures. Please know we have informed the West Central Health District of our prom plans and they have given support to move forward. All our event details will be provided to them for review to make sure we are creating a safe and fun environment for our guests. We are excited to work with each community and we love the ideas and excitement for each prom, even if we cannot have a traditional dance. Together we need to take steps to move forward in providing kids safe, but still memorable activities. We hope that these Community Proms can act as guide in the right direction. . Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any more questions about our Community Proms. Again visiting our website is a great source of information - and the place where students can let us know if they plan to attend.&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gotoprom2020.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1GuVfFoeJ6uTuADmzsCiFOERUXN7iCJlDFxmZuRZPwws46Xj9RLVu_ZI4&amp;h=AT0Fp_7uAFA7mt8Ytr_vNb-rozc2_sh3oXP6zOL4k8j0DkNRxlvGZEnmXOUbgpohIimoc1TnEkPFZ1CQoYI3RhVfMGH7cKTE0Exzza51njcqslzMl_F4j8Pa7djv7io2XdtVnmV3Rg2byTJIiiWbbsYKFdTRuWDmxbZZj92F6weemIJeB79jbUX_BzXK6rgNV3CWOUKwu5zLzZxwCdk5p6nXl60u1zo2N3pcGvTbjZfQ3pQd6Vgg070aFqH4X8BNHNBsm9t-806fOrmumL5Q-h75O_6bIRzU4Lp5h5ySgrV6b5bvL4btH2a5mq4JqpJpGAtH_oGxIx9ibBSsD-SwEQ2T3hKXZ8qEBb8MA_yYHwLEOT-uafSIEF8DQFLy11zIDNUHe5KFTcEbwrj-W-biOjrO6JyggYReAcWSlbRxSW9Eg-fBtTK1zf8y1Pm478IZL9nnt2KiiOe-yPvK-nfkh8vquuLzoS0Z59ZkPCP4bhrtOQeWotXVjrTe0kq6ptW9fCDDDfDU-sWBSUtDckyRk9tc4UbHsMGHvTgBtIbjCU3VhMS9P6c6xzTt6_GHt9zKI3j3IpZCX-BXaUW8IBRfqHUJlU8CT8gfP4ErTWI7TYnxnZTftoFfdiqD" target="_blank">www.gotoprom2020.com</a>

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