OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Business leaders are optimistic the economy will begin to recover later this year in a nine-state region of the Midwest and Plains despite the ongoing impact of the coronavirus outbreak, according to a monthly survey released Monday.

The overall index for the region improved in May to 43.5 from April's 35.1 but it remained in negative territory. The survey results are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score below 50 suggests decline. A score above 50 suggests growth.

The survey's confidence index improved to suggest that businesses are optimistic the economy will begin to rebound within the next six months. That index improved to 56.6 in May from April's weak 45.5 reading.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said the survey shows that the coronavirus outbreak has had a greater impact on businesses tied directly to the consumer and a smaller impact on manufacturers.

"This is a consumer led recession with manufacturing lagging. Nonetheless, Creighton's survey indicates that the regional manufacturing sector is trapped in a recession," said Goss, who oversees the survey.

The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

The employment index for the region remained in negative territory at 40 in May, but it improved significantly from April's record low of 26.2. Goss said that before the coronavirus outbreak took hold in mid March there were only 160,170 workers in the region receiving unemployment benefits. By early May, that number soared to more than 1.3 million workers receiving unemployment.

The survey's inflation index increased to 48.6 in May from April's 44, but it still indicated that wholesale prices are declining.

The region's trade numbers both fell in May. The export index dropped to a record low of 15.9 in May from April's 19.4. The import index slipped to 36 in May from 38.7 in April.

Several other measures of economic health in the survey also suggested declines. The inventory index increased to 48.6 in May from April's 36.9. The new order index increased to 31.7 from April's 21. The sales index grew to 33.3 from April's 23.3, and the index that gauges speed of deliveries of raw materials declined to 63.8 in May from 68.3 in April.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Business leaders are optimistic the economy will begin to recover later this year in a nine-state region of the Midwest and Plains despite the ongoing impact of the coronavirus outbreak, according to a monthly survey released Monday.The overall index for the region improved in May to 43.5 from April's 35.1 but it remained in negative territory. The survey results are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score below 50 suggests decline. A score above 50 suggests growth.The survey's confidence index improved to suggest that businesses are optimistic the economy will begin to rebound within the next six months. That index improved to 56.6 in May from April's weak 45.5 reading.Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said the survey shows that the coronavirus outbreak has had a greater impact on businesses tied directly to the consumer and a smaller impact on manufacturers."This is a consumer led recession with manufacturing lagging. Nonetheless, Creighton's survey indicates that the regional manufacturing sector is trapped in a recession," said Goss, who oversees the survey.The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.The employment index for the region remained in negative territory at 40 in May, but it improved significantly from April's record low of 26.2. Goss said that before the coronavirus outbreak took hold in mid March there were only 160,170 workers in the region receiving unemployment benefits. By early May, that number soared to more than 1.3 million workers receiving unemployment.The survey's inflation index increased to 48.6 in May from April's 44, but it still indicated that wholesale prices are declining.The region's trade numbers both fell in May. The export index dropped to a record low of 15.9 in May from April's 19.4. The import index slipped to 36 in May from 38.7 in April.Several other measures of economic health in the survey also suggested declines. The inventory index increased to 48.6 in May from April's 36.9. The new order index increased to 31.7 from April's 21. The sales index grew to 33.3 from April's 23.3, and the index that gauges speed of deliveries of raw materials declined to 63.8 in May from 68.3 in April.

Survey shows business leaders optimistic despite coronavirus

LINCOLN-More Nebraska prison employees have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing to 14 the total number of employees in the state's 10 prison facilities who've tested positive for the virus.

The two new cases are those of staff members employed at the state prison at Tecumseh, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release late Sunday. The release said both staffers are self-isolating at home.

The department said it will notify those who work and live in the facility 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.

LINCOLN-More Nebraska prison employees have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing to 14 the total number of employees in the state's 10 prison facilities who've tested positive for the virus.The two new cases are those of staff members employed at the state prison at Tecumseh, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release late Sunday. The release said both staffers are self-isolating at home.The department said it will notify those who work and live in the facility 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.

More Nebraska prison employees test positive for coronavirus

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska bars, zoos, swimming pools and other public venues were allowed to reopen Monday even as the coronavirus pandemic continues to loom as a major public health threat.

The new, lighter restrictions approved by Gov. Pete Ricketts went into effect in 89 of Nebraska's 93 counties.

The new rules will also allow non-contact sports such as baseball, softball and volleyball to resume practices on Monday, and games can begin on June 18. Rodeos can also resume Monday, but contact sports such as football, basketball and wrestling will remain prohibited.

Ricketts imposed the rules to try to prevent the coronavirus from spreading and overwhelming the state's hospitals. State officials confirmed another 196 new cases on Sunday, bringing the statewide total to 14,101. Of that number, 170 people have died from the virus. More than 103,800 people have been tested so far.

Hospitals statewide continued to have adequate capacity, with 45% of hospital beds, 49% of intensive care unit beds and 77% of ventilators still available for use.

Some restrictions were also eased in hard-hit Hall, Hamilton, Merrick and Dakota counties, but to a lesser extent.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska bars, zoos, swimming pools and other public venues were allowed to reopen Monday even as the coronavirus pandemic continues to loom as a major public health threat.The new, lighter restrictions approved by Gov. Pete Ricketts went into effect in 89 of Nebraska's 93 counties.The new rules will also allow non-contact sports such as baseball, softball and volleyball to resume practices on Monday, and games can begin on June 18. Rodeos can also resume Monday, but contact sports such as football, basketball and wrestling will remain prohibited.Ricketts imposed the rules to try to prevent the coronavirus from spreading and overwhelming the state's hospitals. State officials confirmed another 196 new cases on Sunday, bringing the statewide total to 14,101. Of that number, 170 people have died from the virus. More than 103,800 people have been tested so far.Hospitals statewide continued to have adequate capacity, with 45% of hospital beds, 49% of intensive care unit beds and 77% of ventilators still available for use.Some restrictions were also eased in hard-hit Hall, Hamilton, Merrick and Dakota counties, but to a lesser extent.

Nebraska kicks off 1st day of lighter virus restrictions

North Platte Public Schools launches a Welcome Center as a one-stop-shop for registration, enrollment, changes of contact information, as well as district questions.&nbsp; The goal of our district is to ensure student success, at all levels, and to educate&nbsp;in a safe, caring, supportive learning environment.

Who Should Visit:&nbsp;Anyone who wishes to register for Pre-Kindergarten - 12th grade, Anyone who has questions about registration or enrollment, or Anyone seeking more information about any&nbsp;NPPS&nbsp;campus.

Hours of Operation:&nbsp;Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. or by appointment

Contact Information:&nbsp;Phone - (308) 696-3310, Fax - (308) 252-1043, Email -&nbsp;welcomecenter@<a href="http://nppsd.org/" target="_blank">nppsd.org</a>

Location:&nbsp;301 West F Street, North Platte, Nebraska, 69101

For more information visit us at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppsd.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Students%20%26%20Parents%7CWelcome%20Center" target="_blank">nppsd.org</a>

North Platte Public Schools launches a Welcome Center as a one-stop-shop for registration, enrollment, changes of contact information, as well as district questions.&nbsp; The goal of our district is to ensure student success, at all levels, and to educate&nbsp;in a safe, caring, supportive learning environment.Who Should Visit:&nbsp;Anyone who wishes to register for Pre-Kindergarten - 12th grade, Anyone who has questions about registration or enrollment, or Anyone seeking more information about any&nbsp;NPPS&nbsp;campus.Hours of Operation:&nbsp;Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. or by appointmentContact Information:&nbsp;Phone - (308) 696-3310, Fax - (308) 252-1043, Email -&nbsp;welcomecenter@<a href="http://nppsd.org/" target="_blank">nppsd.org</a>Location:&nbsp;301 West F Street, North Platte, Nebraska, 69101For more information visit us at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppsd.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Students%20%26%20Parents%7CWelcome%20Center" target="_blank">nppsd.org</a><figure>
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North Platte Public Schools 'Welcome Center' to open June 1

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska continued Saturday to see an increase in novel coronavirus infections, with confirmed cases approaching 14,000. It also reported another six COVID-19-related deaths.

State Department of Health and Human Services data showed the number of coronavirus cases rose by 4.9% or 644 from Thursday night to Saturday evening, to 13,905 since the pandemic began. The state is now reporting 170 COVID-19-related deaths, up 3.7% since Thursday night.

Despite steady increases in cases, Gov. Pete Ricketts has moved to ease social-distancing restrictions, starting Monday. The relaxed rules will allow for larger crowds at public events, and bars and other attractions will reopen for the first time in months.

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.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska continued Saturday to see an increase in novel coronavirus infections, with confirmed cases approaching 14,000. It also reported another six COVID-19-related deaths.State Department of Health and Human Services data showed the number of coronavirus cases rose by 4.9% or 644 from Thursday night to Saturday evening, to 13,905 since the pandemic began. The state is now reporting 170 COVID-19-related deaths, up 3.7% since Thursday night.Despite steady increases in cases, Gov. Pete Ricketts has moved to ease social-distancing restrictions, starting Monday. The relaxed rules will allow for larger crowds at public events, and bars and other attractions will reopen for the first time in months.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.

Nebraska sees new jump in coronavirus cases, COVID-19 deaths

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — As if trips to the grocery store weren’t nerve-wracking enough, U.S. shoppers lately have seen the costs of meat, eggs and even potatoes soar as the coronavirus has disrupted processing plants and distribution networks.

Overall, the cost of food bought to eat at home skyrocketed by the most in 46 years, and analysts caution that meat prices in particular could remain high as slaughterhouses struggle to maintain production levels while implementing procedures intended to keep workers healthy.

While price spikes for staples such as eggs and flour have eased as consumer demand has leveled off, prices remain volatile for carrots, potatoes and other produce because of transportation issues and the health of workers who pick crops and work in processing plants.

In short, supermarket customers and restaurant owners shouldn’t expect prices to drop anytime soon.

“Our biggest concern is long-term food costs. I believe they will continue to go up,” said Julie Kalambokidis, co-owner of Adriano’s Brick Oven, a restaurant in Glenwood, Iowa.

Tamra Kennedy, who owns nine Mexican-inspired fast food franchises in Iowa and Minnesota, joined Kalambokidis on a call set up by Iowa U.S. Rep. Cindy Axne and said sometimes even getting essential ingredients is difficult.

“You can pick an ingredient and I can tell you there are shortages,” she said.

Big fluctuations in food prices began in March, when the coronavirus pandemic began to sink in for U.S. consumers.

The Labor Department reports that the 2.6% jump in April food prices was the largest monthly increase in 46 years. Prices for meats, poultry, fish and eggs increased the most, rising 4.3%. Although the 2.9% jump in cereals and bakery products wasn’t as steep, it was still the largest increase the agency has recorded.

Dairy and related products, and fruits and vegetables increased by 1.5 percent in April.

Egg prices also reached an all-time record of more than $3 a dozen in late March, but they have since fallen to less than $1 a dozen.

The situation has been worse for meat prices, largely because of illnesses among slaughterhouse workers. The outbreaks struck pork processing plants the hardest, but beef and chicken processors also saw some impact as thousands of workers tested positive for the virus and the United Food and Commercial Workers union said at least 44 workers had died of COVID-19 as of Friday.

April retail prices for boneless pork chops and ham were nearly 6% higher than in March and retail prices for hamburger and sirloin steak were about 4% higher, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported. The price of whole fresh chickens rose by more than 12%.

By DAVID PITTDES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — As if trips to the grocery store weren’t nerve-wracking enough, U.S. shoppers lately have seen the costs of meat, eggs and even potatoes soar as the coronavirus has disrupted processing plants and distribution networks.Overall, the cost of food bought to eat at home skyrocketed by the most in 46 years, and analysts caution that meat prices in particular could remain high as slaughterhouses struggle to maintain production levels while implementing procedures intended to keep workers healthy.While price spikes for staples such as eggs and flour have eased as consumer demand has leveled off, prices remain volatile for carrots, potatoes and other produce because of transportation issues and the health of workers who pick crops and work in processing plants.In short, supermarket customers and restaurant owners shouldn’t expect prices to drop anytime soon.“Our biggest concern is long-term food costs. I believe they will continue to go up,” said Julie Kalambokidis, co-owner of Adriano’s Brick Oven, a restaurant in Glenwood, Iowa.Tamra Kennedy, who owns nine Mexican-inspired fast food franchises in Iowa and Minnesota, joined Kalambokidis on a call set up by Iowa U.S. Rep. Cindy Axne and said sometimes even getting essential ingredients is difficult.“You can pick an ingredient and I can tell you there are shortages,” she said.Big fluctuations in food prices began in March, when the coronavirus pandemic began to sink in for U.S. consumers.The Labor Department reports that the 2.6% jump in April food prices was the largest monthly increase in 46 years. Prices for meats, poultry, fish and eggs increased the most, rising 4.3%. Although the 2.9% jump in cereals and bakery products wasn’t as steep, it was still the largest increase the agency has recorded.Dairy and related products, and fruits and vegetables increased by 1.5 percent in April.Egg prices also reached an all-time record of more than $3 a dozen in late March, but they have since fallen to less than $1 a dozen.The situation has been worse for meat prices, largely because of illnesses among slaughterhouse workers. The outbreaks struck pork processing plants the hardest, but beef and chicken processors also saw some impact as thousands of workers tested positive for the virus and the United Food and Commercial Workers union said at least 44 workers had died of COVID-19 as of Friday.April retail prices for boneless pork chops and ham were nearly 6% higher than in March and retail prices for hamburger and sirloin steak were about 4% higher, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported. The price of whole fresh chickens rose by more than 12%.

US food prices see historic jump and are likely to stay high

LINCOLN –&nbsp;During the past seven days, the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state increased by 23 to 170, 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 13,654, marking an increase of 1,992 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.

Less restrictive Directed Health Measures (DHMs) take effect throughout the state on&nbsp;Monday, June 1.&nbsp;Some of these impact the whole state, while some are targeted to particular counties.

Throughout the state,&nbsp;only those returning from international travel will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon their return&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Traveler-Recommendations.aspx">(details here).</a>&nbsp;In addition, limited and non-contact team sports, for both youth and adults, may resume practices on June 1. Games resulting from these practices (including rodeos) may begin to occur, starting June 18. However, contact sports like basketball, tackle football, soccer, and wrestling remain prohibited.

All counties except for&nbsp;Dakota, Hall, Hamilton and Merrick are beginning Phase II of reopening&nbsp;(<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/ew1knz1n4cingvg/COVID-19%2520Outline%2520of%2520Changes%2520to%2520Upcoming%2520DHMs%2520Phase%2520II.pdf?dl%3D0&amp;data=02%7c01%7cDavid.Hudson%40nebraska.gov%7cf1e97b8733a448c7efb008d7fddb7a95%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637256991411976901&amp;sdata=WORqtdAL5qPuKTQsQBbdDr8HHNxEc6HstEK7PXlAQUo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">details here&nbsp;</a>):

Plans for reopening must be submitted to the local health departments and approved for all indoor and outdoor locations/venues that hold 500 or more individuals (1,000 or more in counties over 500,000 population) before reopening is permitted. The reopening plan must contain planned number of guests, how the location will meet social distancing guidelines, and sanitation guidelines.

Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties are in Phase I of reopening&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-announces-new-directed-health-measures-june" target="_blank">(details here)&nbsp;</a>:

The relaxed measures were announced May 21 by Governor Pete Ricketts at his daily 2 p.m. coronavirus press briefing.

New information has been posted to the DHHS COVID-19 website related to reopening guidance and best practices including&nbsp;(<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Nebraska-Guidance-Documents.aspx">details here</a>):

At the coronavirus briefing Friday afternoon, Gov. Ricketts was joined by DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith, who provided a snapshot of the distribution of COVID-19 among different races and ethnicities in Nebraska. In this new initiative, she explained, DHHS is working to compile data from four sources, and improved data breakdowns would be available on the DHHS COVID-19 dashboard at the end of June.&nbsp; A static representation of the COVID-19 race and ethnicity data reviewed in today's summary is available&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Summary-of-Race-and-Ethnicity-Categories.pdf">here&nbsp;</a>.

Among the data she discussed at the news conference were the higher per capita rates of Latinos and African-Americans being hospitalized due to the virus. As a response to this disparity, Smith said, bi-lingual contact tracers have been hired to work with those communities. Contact tracers ask questions about where the person has recently been, and with whom they have been in close contact. The information gathered by contact tracers helps to identify other persons who have been exposed to the virus and may be at risk.

The Governor continues to urge all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment, participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Because people can develop symptoms quickly, Nebraskans are asked to update their assessments from time to time as needed.

Next week, testing will occur in Chadron, Alliance, Scottsbluff, Sidney, Broken Bow, Burwell, St. Paul, Valentine, O'Neill, Norfolk, Columbus, York, Lincoln, Fremont, Bellevue, and Omaha.

After someone tests positive, a contact tracer with the local or state public health team will reach out to them with information on safely self-isolating.

The Governor continues to urge Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;

Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.

Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.

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&nbsp;</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;During the past seven days, the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state increased by 23 to 170, 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 13,654, marking an increase of 1,992 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.Less restrictive Directed Health Measures (DHMs) take effect throughout the state on&nbsp;Monday, June 1.&nbsp;Some of these impact the whole state, while some are targeted to particular counties.Throughout the state,&nbsp;only those returning from international travel will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon their return&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Traveler-Recommendations.aspx">(details here).</a>&nbsp;In addition, limited and non-contact team sports, for both youth and adults, may resume practices on June 1. Games resulting from these practices (including rodeos) may begin to occur, starting June 18. However, contact sports like basketball, tackle football, soccer, and wrestling remain prohibited.All counties except for&nbsp;Dakota, Hall, Hamilton and Merrick are beginning Phase II of reopening&nbsp;(<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/ew1knz1n4cingvg/COVID-19%2520Outline%2520of%2520Changes%2520to%2520Upcoming%2520DHMs%2520Phase%2520II.pdf?dl%3D0&amp;data=02%7c01%7cDavid.Hudson%40nebraska.gov%7cf1e97b8733a448c7efb008d7fddb7a95%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637256991411976901&amp;sdata=WORqtdAL5qPuKTQsQBbdDr8HHNxEc6HstEK7PXlAQUo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">details here&nbsp;</a>):<ol>
 <li>General gatherings are limited to the greater of 25 persons (excluding staff) or 25% of rated occupancy (not to exceed 3,000).</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Joining restaurants, bars may reopen. Bars and restaurants are limited to 50% of the rated occupancy, with a maximum of six persons per table.</li><li>Gyms will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.</li><li>Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy. Both workers and patrons are still required in the DHM to wear masks at all times.</li><li>Wedding and funeral reception venues will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy. Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited at these events. Moreover, no dances or other social events that require guests to gather outside of their respective tables are permitted.</li>
 </ol>Plans for reopening must be submitted to the local health departments and approved for all indoor and outdoor locations/venues that hold 500 or more individuals (1,000 or more in counties over 500,000 population) before reopening is permitted. The reopening plan must contain planned number of guests, how the location will meet social distancing guidelines, and sanitation guidelines.Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties are in Phase I of reopening&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-announces-new-directed-health-measures-june" target="_blank">(details here)&nbsp;</a>:<ol>
 <li>Gatherings—including gyms and event venues—remain subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors can reopen.&nbsp;They are limited to 10 patrons. Both workers and patrons must be masked.</li><li>Restaurants can reopen for dine-in, up to 50% capacity, with a maximum of six persons per table.&nbsp; Bars remain closed.</li><li>Childcare facilities can have up to 15 children per room/space, subject to the usual staff-to-child ratios.</li>
 </ol>The relaxed measures were announced May 21 by Governor Pete Ricketts at his daily 2 p.m. coronavirus press briefing.New information has been posted to the DHHS COVID-19 website related to reopening guidance and best practices including&nbsp;(<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Nebraska-Guidance-Documents.aspx">details here</a>):<ol>
 <li>Booth, tabling and sales events</li><li>Guidance for Estate and Farm auctions</li><li>Guidelines for conducting faith-based services</li><li>Outdoor stadium, arena, racetrack event guidance</li><li>Recommended best practices for barbers and salons</li><li>Recommended best practices for massage therapy</li><li>Recommended best practices for body art</li><li>Restaurant reopening guidelines</li><li>Sports reopening guidelines</li><li>Youth day camps guidance</li>
 </ol>At the coronavirus briefing Friday afternoon, Gov. Ricketts was joined by DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith, who provided a snapshot of the distribution of COVID-19 among different races and ethnicities in Nebraska. In this new initiative, she explained, DHHS is working to compile data from four sources, and improved data breakdowns would be available on the DHHS COVID-19 dashboard at the end of June.&nbsp; A static representation of the COVID-19 race and ethnicity data reviewed in today's summary is available&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Summary-of-Race-and-Ethnicity-Categories.pdf">here&nbsp;</a>.Among the data she discussed at the news conference were the higher per capita rates of Latinos and African-Americans being hospitalized due to the virus. As a response to this disparity, Smith said, bi-lingual contact tracers have been hired to work with those communities. Contact tracers ask questions about where the person has recently been, and with whom they have been in close contact. The information gathered by contact tracers helps to identify other persons who have been exposed to the virus and may be at risk.The Governor continues to urge all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment, participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Because people can develop symptoms quickly, Nebraskans are asked to update their assessments from time to time as needed.Next week, testing will occur in Chadron, Alliance, Scottsbluff, Sidney, Broken Bow, Burwell, St. Paul, Valentine, O'Neill, Norfolk, Columbus, York, Lincoln, Fremont, Bellevue, and Omaha.After someone tests positive, a contact tracer with the local or state public health team will reach out to them with information on safely self-isolating.The Governor continues to urge Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the limits on groups of people.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.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&nbsp;</a>.###

DHHS reports 170 COVID deaths to date, 13, 654 total cases

Over the past three months, Nebraskans have once again shown the world how our grit, determination, and spirit of working together can help us overcome any challenge.&nbsp; Faced with the greatest public health crisis in over a century, Nebraskans have responded by slowing the spread of the virus, protecting our healthcare system, and taking care of our neighbors.&nbsp;

Thanks to widespread adoption of social and physical distancing techniques, Nebraskans flattened the curve.&nbsp; Anybody in need of a hospital bed, ICU bed, or ventilator has had access to it throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; We continue to have hospital capacity statewide for anyone who needs it.

Now it’s time to get Nebraska growing and help folks get back to as normal of a life as possible.&nbsp; To that end, we’re taking the next step on June 1st&nbsp;in our phased approach to reopen temporarily closed businesses and activities.&nbsp; The vast majority of the state—89 of 93 counties—will enter Phase Two of our plan to reopen.&nbsp; Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties will enter Phase One of the plan.

As restrictions are loosened, it is important for all of us to continue to follow our social distancing guidelines to keep six feet apart, avoid large groups, and wearing a mask in public is always a good idea.&nbsp; Following these simple steps will be important to slow the spread of the virus and enable the continued loosening of restrictions.

Here are a few details about the rules for June:

Phase Two Reopening&nbsp;(applies to all counties&nbsp;except&nbsp;for Dakota, Hall, Hamilton and Merrick)

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings will be limited to the greater of 25 persons (excluding staff) or 25% of rated occupancy (not to exceed 3,000).

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants remain open for dine-in, and bars can reopen.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants are limited to 50% of the rated occupancy, with a maximum of six persons per table.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;All patrons in a bar must be seated.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Both workers and patrons are still required in the DHM to wear masks at all times.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wedding and funeral reception venues

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited. &nbsp;

o&nbsp;&nbsp;No dances or other social events that require guests to gather outside of their respective tables are permitted.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other group size and physical distancing limitations apply to the gatherings and venues above.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more details on the “Phase Two” DHMs,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Few1knz1n4cingvg%2FCOVID-19%2520Outline%2520of%2520Changes%2520to%2520Upcoming%2520DHMs%2520Phase%2520II.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C1fb0c2cc33b04e92c90e08d8040ce30c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263800673697437&amp;sdata=Gq6I1I2IwN5%2BruEiOdoUs1YdREn7dban%2ByNq19lrVCg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>.

&nbsp;Phase One Reopening&nbsp;(applies to Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties only).

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings—including gyms and event venues—remain subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors can reopen.&nbsp; They are limited to 10 patrons.&nbsp; Both workers and patrons must be masked.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants can reopen for dine-in, up to 50% capacity, with a maximum of six persons per table.&nbsp; Bars remain closed.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Childcare facilities can have up to 15 kids per room/space, subject to the usual staff-to-child ratios.

In addition to our regional reopening plans, we’re loosening other restrictions statewide.&nbsp; Starting June 1st, we’re relaxing travel quarantines.&nbsp; Only individuals returning from international travel will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon coming back to Nebraska.&nbsp;

Sports provide excellent exercise and help teach teamwork.&nbsp; Statewide, we’ll restart them gradually in June with physical distancing guidelines in place.&nbsp; Limited and non-contact team sports, for both youth and adults, may resume practices on June 1st&nbsp;and games on June 18th.&nbsp; Contact sports like basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling remain prohibited for the time being.&nbsp; Additional sports guidelines can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.

As we ease these restrictions, we have been working closely with our local health departments and heath care facilities.&nbsp; Our Test Nebraska initiative will be an important source of information for us.&nbsp; Testing helps us identify where the virus is popping up, and can help contain outbreaks quickly.&nbsp; We’ve already seen great progress in testing this month. &nbsp;In May, we’ve performed more than twice as many tests as we did in March and April combined.&nbsp; I encourage all Nebraskans to take the simple health assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C1fb0c2cc33b04e92c90e08d8040ce30c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263800673697437&amp;sdata=wHEjhJcUpvw3VlDotgxaYrWUh3iZ5RQR2aPPGteXPGY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;and to schedule a test if eligible. &nbsp;

I know Nebraskans want to watch football and volleyball this fall, be together with their friends at school, and enjoy concerts and movies.&nbsp; These activities will be more likely to resume, with fewer restrictions, the more we follow the rules and work to keep our family and neighbors healthy. &nbsp;

We’ll post new guidance documents for more activities in the coming weeks. &nbsp;I encourage Nebraskans to stay informed by regularly visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp; You can also go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to read the latest news and subscribe to coronavirus updates.&nbsp;

As we enter the summer, I will be working with people across the state to get Nebraska growing, so we can create new jobs and opportunities even as we battle on to win the war against the virus.

Governor Ricketts' Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsOver the past three months, Nebraskans have once again shown the world how our grit, determination, and spirit of working together can help us overcome any challenge.&nbsp; Faced with the greatest public health crisis in over a century, Nebraskans have responded by slowing the spread of the virus, protecting our healthcare system, and taking care of our neighbors.&nbsp;Thanks to widespread adoption of social and physical distancing techniques, Nebraskans flattened the curve.&nbsp; Anybody in need of a hospital bed, ICU bed, or ventilator has had access to it throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; We continue to have hospital capacity statewide for anyone who needs it.Now it’s time to get Nebraska growing and help folks get back to as normal of a life as possible.&nbsp; To that end, we’re taking the next step on June 1st&nbsp;in our phased approach to reopen temporarily closed businesses and activities.&nbsp; The vast majority of the state—89 of 93 counties—will enter Phase Two of our plan to reopen.&nbsp; Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties will enter Phase One of the plan.As restrictions are loosened, it is important for all of us to continue to follow our social distancing guidelines to keep six feet apart, avoid large groups, and wearing a mask in public is always a good idea.&nbsp; Following these simple steps will be important to slow the spread of the virus and enable the continued loosening of restrictions.Here are a few details about the rules for June:Phase Two Reopening&nbsp;(applies to all counties&nbsp;except&nbsp;for Dakota, Hall, Hamilton and Merrick)·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatheringso&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings will be limited to the greater of 25 persons (excluding staff) or 25% of rated occupancy (not to exceed 3,000).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurantso&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants remain open for dine-in, and bars can reopen.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants are limited to 50% of the rated occupancy, with a maximum of six persons per table.o&nbsp;&nbsp;All patrons in a bar must be seated.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gymso&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlorso&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Both workers and patrons are still required in the DHM to wear masks at all times.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wedding and funeral reception venueso&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited. &nbsp;o&nbsp;&nbsp;No dances or other social events that require guests to gather outside of their respective tables are permitted.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other group size and physical distancing limitations apply to the gatherings and venues above.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more details on the “Phase Two” DHMs,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Few1knz1n4cingvg%2FCOVID-19%2520Outline%2520of%2520Changes%2520to%2520Upcoming%2520DHMs%2520Phase%2520II.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C1fb0c2cc33b04e92c90e08d8040ce30c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263800673697437&amp;sdata=Gq6I1I2IwN5%2BruEiOdoUs1YdREn7dban%2ByNq19lrVCg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp;Phase One Reopening&nbsp;(applies to Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties only).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings—including gyms and event venues—remain subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors can reopen.&nbsp; They are limited to 10 patrons.&nbsp; Both workers and patrons must be masked.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants can reopen for dine-in, up to 50% capacity, with a maximum of six persons per table.&nbsp; Bars remain closed.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Childcare facilities can have up to 15 kids per room/space, subject to the usual staff-to-child ratios.In addition to our regional reopening plans, we’re loosening other restrictions statewide.&nbsp; Starting June 1st, we’re relaxing travel quarantines.&nbsp; Only individuals returning from international travel will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon coming back to Nebraska.&nbsp;Sports provide excellent exercise and help teach teamwork.&nbsp; Statewide, we’ll restart them gradually in June with physical distancing guidelines in place.&nbsp; Limited and non-contact team sports, for both youth and adults, may resume practices on June 1st&nbsp;and games on June 18th.&nbsp; Contact sports like basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling remain prohibited for the time being.&nbsp; Additional sports guidelines can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.As we ease these restrictions, we have been working closely with our local health departments and heath care facilities.&nbsp; Our Test Nebraska initiative will be an important source of information for us.&nbsp; Testing helps us identify where the virus is popping up, and can help contain outbreaks quickly.&nbsp; We’ve already seen great progress in testing this month. &nbsp;In May, we’ve performed more than twice as many tests as we did in March and April combined.&nbsp; I encourage all Nebraskans to take the simple health assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C1fb0c2cc33b04e92c90e08d8040ce30c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263800673697437&amp;sdata=wHEjhJcUpvw3VlDotgxaYrWUh3iZ5RQR2aPPGteXPGY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;and to schedule a test if eligible. &nbsp;I know Nebraskans want to watch football and volleyball this fall, be together with their friends at school, and enjoy concerts and movies.&nbsp; These activities will be more likely to resume, with fewer restrictions, the more we follow the rules and work to keep our family and neighbors healthy. &nbsp;We’ll post new guidance documents for more activities in the coming weeks. &nbsp;I encourage Nebraskans to stay informed by regularly visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp; You can also go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to read the latest news and subscribe to coronavirus updates.&nbsp;As we enter the summer, I will be working with people across the state to get Nebraska growing, so we can create new jobs and opportunities even as we battle on to win the war against the virus.

Ricketts: Reopening Prudently

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The coronavirus pandemic appears to be taking a "startling," disproportionate toll on Nebraska's Hispanic, Asian and black residents, a top health administrator said Friday.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services CEO Dannette Smith made the comments as the state released a partial breakdown of the virus' impact on different racial groups.

Nebraska had 13,261 confirmed virus cases as of Thursday night, according to the department. Among the 9,630 infected people whose races are known, Smith said 2,430 were minorities. Nebraska is more than 87% white.

"Some of our data is startling," Smith said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We have a lot of work to do with our communities of color to ensure we understand their culture and linguistic needs."

About 40% of the residents who were hospitalized with the virus identified as Hispanic, even though that group represents just 11% of the state's overall population, according to the state data. Hispanics also accounted for about 20% of the state's coronavirus deaths, Smith said.

Asians accounted for 8% of Nebraska's coronavirus hospitalizations but represent just 2% of the population. And black residents represent 7% of Nebraska's hospitalizations but 5% of the general population.

White residents, by contrast, represented 70% of those hospitalized and 87% of the general population.

The disproportionate share of minority cases is likely driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d4f0cdd9c7fd50fa3dbbd9fcc06a7217" target="_blank">major outbreaks in Nebraska's meatpacking plants</a>, which employ large numbers of Hispanic and black workers.

Dr. Gary Anthone, Nebraska's chief medical officer, said Friday that state officials have linked 2,988 virus cases to meatpacking plants, including 11 deaths and 140 hospitalizations.

Ricketts said the state has taken extra steps to warn minority communities about the virus, such as holding Spanish-language news conferences and hiring bilingual contact tracers to help identify people who have been exposed. Advocates for meatpacking workers have said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/30d46c434c6c7246be0720627e300d4d" target="_blank">the state isn't doing enough</a>&nbsp;to protect vulnerable minority populations.

Smith said Nebraska's race data isn't complete because state officials don't have one central database where that information is recorded. Instead, she said public health officials are drawing from four different sources and won't have a full snapshot until the end of June.

Meanwhile, new figures show Nebraska saw an additional coronavirus death and another 200-plus cases of infection as the last week of May winds to an end.

The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">online virus tracking site</a>&nbsp;shows an additional death on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 164 on Friday. The site also showed 285 additional cases of the virus confirmed Thursday.

Despite the steady increase, Ricketts has moved to ease social-distancing restrictions, starting Monday. The relaxed rules will allow for larger crowds at public events, and bars and other attractions will reopen for the first time in months.

Governor Pete Ricketts shared new demographic data on coronavirus cases and fatalities.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS, in partnership with Local Health Departments, has been working diligently to collect and compile the data.

DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith joined the Governor to provide coronavirus statistics broken down by race, ethnicity, age, and gender.&nbsp; Additionally, John C. Wyvill, Executive Director for the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH, took part in today’s briefing.&nbsp; He talked about the challenges that deaf and hard of hearing Nebraskans have encountered as more people wear masks.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102382959&amp;sdata=UF6tYQdjuj5%2FKrmrzsymsj4HogAaj36%2BbLSKuy2uFmI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I want to remind people that Test Nebraska will operate in the following communities next week:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Chadron, Alliance, Scottsbluff, Sidney, Broken Bow, Burwell, St. Paul, Valentine, O’Neill, Norfolk, Columbus, York, Lincoln, Fremont, Bellevue, and Omaha.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information on the specific locations of the testing sites will be posted on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102392907&amp;sdata=%2BRZajbOKm%2Bcz7n15oHyZlB%2FvPy1%2B2x6cd0X5Q%2B5lCf0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;soon.

Dannette Smith: Public Health Data

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Governor Ricketts has ensured that DHHS is committed to serving the most vulnerable residents and providing health access to all Nebraskans.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have been hard at work in our efforts to collect demographic data and share it with fidelity.&nbsp; I want to underscore that we will continue to collect, synthesize, and report data in a transparent manner.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the American Community Survey in 2018, Nebraska’s demographic make-up is as follows:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;5% Multiracial or Other Race

o&nbsp;&nbsp;1% American Indian or Alaskan Native

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With respect to ethnicity, 89% of Nebraskans identify as non-Hispanic and 11% identify as Hispanic or Latino.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Data on Nebraska’s coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities—broken down by race and ethnicity—is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Ffjag100xz1gafnf%2FDHHS-NE%2520COVID%2520Summary%2520of%2520Race%2520and%2520Ethnicity%2520Categories%252005.27.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102392907&amp;sdata=XlxNOLeS1GkXSXjMLooV0qa1Yno8FnWOeIn6TnYxx1c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The overwhelming majority (75%) of all patients hospitalized with the virus have been 50 years of age or older.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Among coronavirus-related fatalities, 87% have occurred among those 60 years of age or older according to the Nebraska Disease Surveillance System.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to learn more about underlying health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and tobacco use.&nbsp; These underlying health conditions have a significant impact on the likelihood of recovery from coronavirus infection.&nbsp; This is especially true for communities of color, where underlying conditions often go undiagnosed due to lack of treatment and care.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This is why Local Health Departments and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are so integral to providing preventative and primary care to vulnerable populations.&nbsp;

John Wyvill: Masks and Communication

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The deaf and hard of hearing have had to adjust to new social distancing rules and norms, including the wearing of masks.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In this environment, going to grocery stores, drive-thru banks, and medical appointments has become more challenging.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenty percent of Nebraskans have some form of hearing loss, whether diagnosed or not.&nbsp; Roughly 1 out of 3 Nebraskans over age 65 have hearing loss.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As more people wear masks, be aware of the communication barrier and have a communication plan.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In a medical setting, it’s particularly important for the deaf and hard of hearing to be able to communicate.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One option is to wear clear masks so that others can read your lips when speaking.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It may also be a good idea to keep a smartphone or tablet on hand so that you can type out messages if needed.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today’s press conference is captioned by NET, and NCDHH has been providing ASL interpreters for the Governor’s press briefings.

New Directed Health Measures (DHM) beginning June 1st&nbsp;were released today.&nbsp; They cover a wide variety of topics and can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ih1ctdv1d4axxtb/AADH8Zm-odGc0wNHl8EnxhYQa?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;Previously, the DHM had required 30% of beds to be available before a hospital could resume elective surgeries.&nbsp; Given the continued stability of Nebraska’s hospital system, the next DHM will require 15% of beds to be available for elective surgeries to continue.

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%2Fnmvlfw0r2kea3rm%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.29.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102392907&amp;sdata=1YdlGPPKJxxk2fSy63x53xCh42cVPf445lvrdSGIwRg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The coronavirus pandemic appears to be taking a "startling," disproportionate toll on Nebraska's Hispanic, Asian and black residents, a top health administrator said Friday.Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services CEO Dannette Smith made the comments as the state released a partial breakdown of the virus' impact on different racial groups.Nebraska had 13,261 confirmed virus cases as of Thursday night, according to the department. Among the 9,630 infected people whose races are known, Smith said 2,430 were minorities. Nebraska is more than 87% white."Some of our data is startling," Smith said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We have a lot of work to do with our communities of color to ensure we understand their culture and linguistic needs."About 40% of the residents who were hospitalized with the virus identified as Hispanic, even though that group represents just 11% of the state's overall population, according to the state data. Hispanics also accounted for about 20% of the state's coronavirus deaths, Smith said.Asians accounted for 8% of Nebraska's coronavirus hospitalizations but represent just 2% of the population. And black residents represent 7% of Nebraska's hospitalizations but 5% of the general population.White residents, by contrast, represented 70% of those hospitalized and 87% of the general population.The disproportionate share of minority cases is likely driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d4f0cdd9c7fd50fa3dbbd9fcc06a7217" target="_blank">major outbreaks in Nebraska's meatpacking plants</a>, which employ large numbers of Hispanic and black workers.Dr. Gary Anthone, Nebraska's chief medical officer, said Friday that state officials have linked 2,988 virus cases to meatpacking plants, including 11 deaths and 140 hospitalizations.Ricketts said the state has taken extra steps to warn minority communities about the virus, such as holding Spanish-language news conferences and hiring bilingual contact tracers to help identify people who have been exposed. Advocates for meatpacking workers have said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/30d46c434c6c7246be0720627e300d4d" target="_blank">the state isn't doing enough</a>&nbsp;to protect vulnerable minority populations.Smith said Nebraska's race data isn't complete because state officials don't have one central database where that information is recorded. Instead, she said public health officials are drawing from four different sources and won't have a full snapshot until the end of June.Meanwhile, new figures show Nebraska saw an additional coronavirus death and another 200-plus cases of infection as the last week of May winds to an end.The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">online virus tracking site</a>&nbsp;shows an additional death on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 164 on Friday. The site also showed 285 additional cases of the virus confirmed Thursday.Despite the steady increase, Ricketts has moved to ease social-distancing restrictions, starting Monday. The relaxed rules will allow for larger crowds at public events, and bars and other attractions will reopen for the first time in months.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.___From Governor Rickett's OfficeGovernor Pete Ricketts shared new demographic data on coronavirus cases and fatalities.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS, in partnership with Local Health Departments, has been working diligently to collect and compile the data.DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith joined the Governor to provide coronavirus statistics broken down by race, ethnicity, age, and gender.&nbsp; Additionally, John C. Wyvill, Executive Director for the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH, took part in today’s briefing.&nbsp; He talked about the challenges that deaf and hard of hearing Nebraskans have encountered as more people wear masks.Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102382959&amp;sdata=UF6tYQdjuj5%2FKrmrzsymsj4HogAaj36%2BbLSKuy2uFmI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I want to remind people that Test Nebraska will operate in the following communities next week:o&nbsp;&nbsp;Chadron, Alliance, Scottsbluff, Sidney, Broken Bow, Burwell, St. Paul, Valentine, O’Neill, Norfolk, Columbus, York, Lincoln, Fremont, Bellevue, and Omaha.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information on the specific locations of the testing sites will be posted on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102392907&amp;sdata=%2BRZajbOKm%2Bcz7n15oHyZlB%2FvPy1%2B2x6cd0X5Q%2B5lCf0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;soon.Dannette Smith: Public Health Data·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Governor Ricketts has ensured that DHHS is committed to serving the most vulnerable residents and providing health access to all Nebraskans.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have been hard at work in our efforts to collect demographic data and share it with fidelity.&nbsp; I want to underscore that we will continue to collect, synthesize, and report data in a transparent manner.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the American Community Survey in 2018, Nebraska’s demographic make-up is as follows:o&nbsp;&nbsp;87% Caucasiano&nbsp;&nbsp;5% African Americano&nbsp;&nbsp;5% Multiracial or Other Raceo&nbsp;&nbsp;2% Asiano&nbsp;&nbsp;1% American Indian or Alaskan Native·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With respect to ethnicity, 89% of Nebraskans identify as non-Hispanic and 11% identify as Hispanic or Latino.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Data on Nebraska’s coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities—broken down by race and ethnicity—is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Ffjag100xz1gafnf%2FDHHS-NE%2520COVID%2520Summary%2520of%2520Race%2520and%2520Ethnicity%2520Categories%252005.27.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102392907&amp;sdata=XlxNOLeS1GkXSXjMLooV0qa1Yno8FnWOeIn6TnYxx1c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The overwhelming majority (75%) of all patients hospitalized with the virus have been 50 years of age or older.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Among coronavirus-related fatalities, 87% have occurred among those 60 years of age or older according to the Nebraska Disease Surveillance System.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to learn more about underlying health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and tobacco use.&nbsp; These underlying health conditions have a significant impact on the likelihood of recovery from coronavirus infection.&nbsp; This is especially true for communities of color, where underlying conditions often go undiagnosed due to lack of treatment and care.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This is why Local Health Departments and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are so integral to providing preventative and primary care to vulnerable populations.&nbsp;John Wyvill: Masks and Communication·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The deaf and hard of hearing have had to adjust to new social distancing rules and norms, including the wearing of masks.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In this environment, going to grocery stores, drive-thru banks, and medical appointments has become more challenging.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Twenty percent of Nebraskans have some form of hearing loss, whether diagnosed or not.&nbsp; Roughly 1 out of 3 Nebraskans over age 65 have hearing loss.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As more people wear masks, be aware of the communication barrier and have a communication plan.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In a medical setting, it’s particularly important for the deaf and hard of hearing to be able to communicate.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One option is to wear clear masks so that others can read your lips when speaking.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It may also be a good idea to keep a smartphone or tablet on hand so that you can type out messages if needed.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today’s press conference is captioned by NET, and NCDHH has been providing ASL interpreters for the Governor’s press briefings.New Directed Health Measures (DHM) beginning June 1st&nbsp;were released today.&nbsp; They cover a wide variety of topics and can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ih1ctdv1d4axxtb/AADH8Zm-odGc0wNHl8EnxhYQa?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;Previously, the DHM had required 30% of beds to be available before a hospital could resume elective surgeries.&nbsp; Given the continued stability of Nebraska’s hospital system, the next DHM will require 15% of beds to be available for elective surgeries to continue.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%2Fnmvlfw0r2kea3rm%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.29.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C2426baf30ad649f0bb3d08d804204f2d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263884102392907&amp;sdata=1YdlGPPKJxxk2fSy63x53xCh42cVPf445lvrdSGIwRg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Minorities appear to be hardest-hit by virus in Nebraska

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - New figures show Nebraska saw an additional coronavirus death and another 200-plus cases of infection as the last week of May comes to an end.

The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">online virus tracking site</a>&nbsp;shows an additional death on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 164 on Friday. The site also showed 285 additional cases of the virus confirmed Thursday, bringing the state's total to 13,261.

Despite the steady increase, Gov. Pete Ricketts has moved to ease social-distancing restrictions, starting Monday. The relaxed rules will allow for larger crowds at public events, and bars and other attractions will reopen for the first time in months.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - New figures show Nebraska saw an additional coronavirus death and another 200-plus cases of infection as the last week of May comes to an end.The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">online virus tracking site</a>&nbsp;shows an additional death on Thursday, bringing the state's total to 164 on Friday. The site also showed 285 additional cases of the virus confirmed Thursday, bringing the state's total to 13,261.Despite the steady increase, Gov. Pete Ricketts has moved to ease social-distancing restrictions, starting Monday. The relaxed rules will allow for larger crowds at public events, and bars and other attractions will reopen for the first time in months.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.

Nebraska sees additional death, more COVID-19 cases

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will open more camping opportunities in state park areas starting June 4, when all previous temporary restrictions on recreational vehicle and tent camping will be removed. Designated beaches and swimming areas also will open June 4.

All reservation-only campsites and first-come campsites — other than at Mormon Island State Recreation Area (SRA) and Danish Alps SRA — will be available to all camping units, including RVs, camping trailers and tents. Mormon Island and Danish Alps SRAs will remain closed to overnight camping due to high COVID-19 incidence in those communities.

Camp guests will be able to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjkuMjIyMTI4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25lYnJhc2thc3RhdGVwYXJrcy5yZXNlcnZlYW1lcmljYS5jb20vIn0.imjurBNiGn1geZAkllreVnrae9y9U9ha9JHROpHQIw4/br/79261528712-l" target="_blank">make reservations online</a>&nbsp;for previously reservable sites or enjoy first-come first-serve camping across the state. Wildlife management areas remain open for camping.

Game and Parks reminds park guests to practice social distancing to ensure compliance with the state’s Directed Health Measures amid the COVID-19 health situation.

“With high demand for camping and outdoor recreational opportunities, and changes in the state’s Directed Health Measures, we are pleased to restore camping opportunities and allow guests to participate in activities they love – making memories in our parks,” said Director Jim Douglas. “We appreciate everyone enthusiasm and patience during these times we have worked to provide opportunities, while at the same time helping to protect the health of the public and our staff.”

The following measures will go into effect June 4:

• Game and Parks will return to the traditional format of combination advance reservation and first-come first-serve camping across the state. The park areas that will accommodate advance reservations for up to 50% of available campsites are listed on the agency website&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjkuMjIyMTI4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.S_WnLHpdd3KdXHPrIHQHDWxTlH-kfbyhKaGClT9tIGw/br/79261528712-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

• To provide for more opportunity for campers, the maximum length of stay will be seven days. Park offices remain closed at this time. Campers must pay for reserved sites online or for first-come first-serve sites via iron rangers.

• Shower houses and modern restrooms will open. Guests should bring soap or disinfecting wipes as availability of sanitation products is limited nationally.

• Outdoor playgrounds will open but guests should bring their own hand sanitizer.

• Designated beaches and designated swimming areas will open.

“We are thrilled at the prospect of more people enjoying our parks, but it is critical that they recreate responsibly,” said Parks Division Administrator Jim Swenson. “Responsible recreation is very important, and guests need to continue to practice social distancing, follow all posted rules, keep group sizes small and practice good personal hygiene.”

Those visiting parks should follow these guidelines to recreate responsibly:

• Maintain a 6-foot distance between other guests.

• Engage in recreational activities only with members of your household.

• Stick to low-risk activities to reduce stress on local emergency response and health care systems.

• Minimize travel distance from home. If your intended location is congested, come back at another time or move to a nearby, less-crowded site.

• Pack — and use — hand sanitizer often.

• Avoid high-touch areas. Clean public use surfaces, such as boat dock handrails and fish cleaning stations, with disinfecting wipes prior to use.

• If boating, do not congregate at boat ramps, boat docks, and beach areas.

• If you are sick, or have been exposed to someone who is sick with COVID-19, stay home.

• Leave no trace: Pack out everything you bring with you.Remember all regulations and license options remain unchanged. Park guests are encouraged to buy state park and fishing permits ahead of time at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjkuMjIyMTI4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.GatT2bg4BK-xESufhvFbLnopDxz9l4JhN_ysvvChi3Q/br/79261528712-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or at a vendor. Print them out to carry along.

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will open more camping opportunities in state park areas starting June 4, when all previous temporary restrictions on recreational vehicle and tent camping will be removed. Designated beaches and swimming areas also will open June 4.All reservation-only campsites and first-come campsites — other than at Mormon Island State Recreation Area (SRA) and Danish Alps SRA — will be available to all camping units, including RVs, camping trailers and tents. Mormon Island and Danish Alps SRAs will remain closed to overnight camping due to high COVID-19 incidence in those communities.Camp guests will be able to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjkuMjIyMTI4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25lYnJhc2thc3RhdGVwYXJrcy5yZXNlcnZlYW1lcmljYS5jb20vIn0.imjurBNiGn1geZAkllreVnrae9y9U9ha9JHROpHQIw4/br/79261528712-l" target="_blank">make reservations online</a>&nbsp;for previously reservable sites or enjoy first-come first-serve camping across the state. Wildlife management areas remain open for camping.Game and Parks reminds park guests to practice social distancing to ensure compliance with the state’s Directed Health Measures amid the COVID-19 health situation.“With high demand for camping and outdoor recreational opportunities, and changes in the state’s Directed Health Measures, we are pleased to restore camping opportunities and allow guests to participate in activities they love – making memories in our parks,” said Director Jim Douglas. “We appreciate everyone enthusiasm and patience during these times we have worked to provide opportunities, while at the same time helping to protect the health of the public and our staff.”The following measures will go into effect June 4:• Game and Parks will return to the traditional format of combination advance reservation and first-come first-serve camping across the state. The park areas that will accommodate advance reservations for up to 50% of available campsites are listed on the agency website&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjkuMjIyMTI4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.S_WnLHpdd3KdXHPrIHQHDWxTlH-kfbyhKaGClT9tIGw/br/79261528712-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.• To provide for more opportunity for campers, the maximum length of stay will be seven days. Park offices remain closed at this time. Campers must pay for reserved sites online or for first-come first-serve sites via iron rangers.• Shower houses and modern restrooms will open. Guests should bring soap or disinfecting wipes as availability of sanitation products is limited nationally.• Outdoor playgrounds will open but guests should bring their own hand sanitizer.• Designated beaches and designated swimming areas will open.“We are thrilled at the prospect of more people enjoying our parks, but it is critical that they recreate responsibly,” said Parks Division Administrator Jim Swenson. “Responsible recreation is very important, and guests need to continue to practice social distancing, follow all posted rules, keep group sizes small and practice good personal hygiene.”Those visiting parks should follow these guidelines to recreate responsibly:• Maintain a 6-foot distance between other guests.• Engage in recreational activities only with members of your household.• Stick to low-risk activities to reduce stress on local emergency response and health care systems.• Minimize travel distance from home. If your intended location is congested, come back at another time or move to a nearby, less-crowded site.• Pack — and use — hand sanitizer often.• Avoid high-touch areas. Clean public use surfaces, such as boat dock handrails and fish cleaning stations, with disinfecting wipes prior to use.• If boating, do not congregate at boat ramps, boat docks, and beach areas.• If you are sick, or have been exposed to someone who is sick with COVID-19, stay home.• Leave no trace: Pack out everything you bring with you.Remember all regulations and license options remain unchanged. Park guests are encouraged to buy state park and fishing permits ahead of time at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjkuMjIyMTI4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.GatT2bg4BK-xESufhvFbLnopDxz9l4JhN_ysvvChi3Q/br/79261528712-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or at a vendor. Print them out to carry along.

Nebraska Game and Parks to restore all camping and swim beaches beginning June 4

The North Platte Public Library will
be relaxing some restrictions for the public, beginning on June 1,
2020, based on the Governor’s phase II DHM rules.

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.

The North Platte Public Library will
be relaxing some restrictions for the public, beginning on June 1,
2020, based on the Governor’s phase II DHM rules.

HOURS
OF OPERATION<ol>
 <li>
	Hours for the general public:
	Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – all public are required to use
	hand sanitizer upon entering the building.
	</li><li>
	Hours for vulnerable
	population: 8:00AM – 9:00 AM. It is expected and encouraged that the vulnerable population use hand sanitizer and wear masks during their visit.
	</li><li>
	Saturday and Sunday: The library is closed – the book drop will be open.
</li>
 </ol>RESTRICTIONS/MODIFICATIONS<ol>
 <li>The library is only open to individuals that
	are 14 years of age and
	older.
	</li><li>
	A time limit of 60 minutes per
	visit per day will be
	enforced.
	</li><li>
	A maximum of 25 people (excluding
	library staff) will
	be allowed in the facility at any time
	</li><li>
	Library materials now have firm due
	dates and should be returned before the due date.
	As of June 1, 2020, library fines will start accruing. We have implemented a 7 day grace period so fines will not generate during item quarantine. Library books that have remained in homes during the COVID19 closure, should be returned in the library’s book drop. Requests that have not been picked up in the allotted 7 days now will be allowed to expire and move on to the next person on the
	request list without penalty.
	</li><li>
	All account holders are continued to be
	encouraged to limit the number of items they have out to no more
	then 20 (7 of which can be DVDs) at any given time due to the
	quarantine process delaying the item the check-in process by 72-96
	hours. Full check out receipts will have recently returned items on
	the list. 
	
	</li><li>
	Tables with up to 4 chairs have been spaced 6 feet apart, to maintain social distancing. All wingback chairs and comfortable seating has been removed from the library’s main floor.
	</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><a></a>
	Holds may be placed 24 hours ahead of your
	visit to limit your time and interactions at the library – please
	allow 24 hours for staff to pull your requests before your visit –
	items may be requested using the following methods:
	
			Online catalog at
			<a href="http://catalog.nppl.online/">http://catalog.nppl.online</a>
			By phone at 308-535-8036 X3301
			
			By email to
			library@ci.north-platte.ne.us
		
	
	</li><li>
			Online catalog at
			<a href="http://catalog.nppl.online/">http://catalog.nppl.online</a>
			</li><li>
			By phone at 308-535-8036 X3301
			</li><li>
			By email to
			library@ci.north-platte.ne.us
		</li><li>
	All persons visiting the library will need
	to check-in and out with a library teammate before entering the main
	area of the library.
	</li><li>
	All persons will be asked 3 questions and be required to use hand sanitizer. Masks are encouraged.
	
			What is your first name?
			We ask this so you can be paged over the intercom if you exceed
			your 30-minute visit.
			
			Have you been traveling outside of
			the country? If so, please
			wait 14 days before entering the library. This is being asked as
			part of Phase II Guidelines.
			
			Have you or anybody in your household
			been sick or running a temperature within the last week?
			If so, please wait 10 days from symptom onset, plus 72 hours
			symptom-free before visiting the library. We ask this because of
			<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html">CDC
			Guidelines for What to Do If You Are Sick</a>.
		
		The Library will provide hand sanitizer
		and all persons will be required to use the sanitizer at the check
		in the station prior to entering the main area of the library. This is
		for the safety of all citizens to limit contamination of library
		materials by the virus.
	
	</li><li>
			What is your first name?
			We ask this so you can be paged over the intercom if you exceed
			your 30-minute visit.
			</li><li>
			Have you been traveling outside of
			the country? If so, please
			wait 14 days before entering the library. This is being asked as
			part of Phase II Guidelines.
			</li><li>
			Have you or anybody in your household
			been sick or running a temperature within the last week?
			If so, please wait 10 days from symptom onset, plus 72 hours
			symptom-free before visiting the library. We ask this because of
			<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html">CDC
			Guidelines for What to Do If You Are Sick</a>.
		</li><li>
		The Library will provide hand sanitizer
		and all persons will be required to use the sanitizer at the check
		in the station prior to entering the main area of the library. This is
		for the safety of all citizens to limit contamination of library
		materials by the virus.
	</li><li>
	ALL second-floor services, including
	computers, genealogy, periodicals, young adult collections, faxing,
	and photocopying services are unavailable to the public. Staff will
	get you items or perform faxing or copying for you, but the public
	needs to remain on the first floor.
	</li><li>
	Four computer stations will be available for a 60-minute visit. Very limited computer assistance is available due to social distancing guidelines.
	</li><li>
	ALL group programming is cancelled until
	further notice, due to social distancing guidelines. 
	
	</li><li>
	The Creation Station is closed to the
	public until further notice. 
	
	</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>
	All library staff continue to wear masks
	and may be further protected as their comfort level dictates.
</li>
 </ol>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
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North Platte Public Library announces 2nd phase of reopening modifications

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts highlighted the great work being done by the agriculture and tourism industries to overcome the challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; He also announced the communities where Test Nebraska will operate during the first week of June.

Greg Ibach, Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA, joined the Governor for this afternoon’s briefing.&nbsp; He gave an update on the USDA’s efforts to provide assistance to Nebraskans adversely impacted by the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

Nebraska Tourism Executive Director John Ricks also attended today’s press conference to talk about the 2020 Passport Program.&nbsp; Each year, Nebraska Tourism hosts the program to incentivize travelers to visit restaurants and attractions across the state.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601301456&amp;sdata=YgqEdBFDV3EG5v%2FBDYHNiWAJyR97yr4RdWvzMGFyjMo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test Nebraska will operate in the following communities next week:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information on the specific locations of the testing sites will be posted on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601301456&amp;sdata=YgqEdBFDV3EG5v%2FBDYHNiWAJyR97yr4RdWvzMGFyjMo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;soon.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;United States Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue was recently added to the President’s coronavirus task force to represent ag interests.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Early on in the battle against the virus, President Trump declared food processors as essential businesses.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re grateful to Governor Ricketts for his cooperation with the USDA and other government agencies to establish safety protocols for packing plants.&nbsp; The protocols have called for additional shielding, masking, and social distancing (when possible). &nbsp;This has helped to provide a safer environment in these workplaces.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During the pandemic, USDA graders and inspectors have been actively ensuring our food safety.&nbsp; I’m pleased to report that no food processors have been delayed on account of USDA regulatory services being unavailable.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The USDA announced the provision of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) payments a little over a week ago.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;CFAP payments are direct payments to farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;

o&nbsp;&nbsp;There are four main “buckets” of payments for Nebraskans:

§&nbsp;&nbsp;Traditional crop payments (soybeans, corn, wheat)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590752710474.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium, USDA Under Secretary Greg Ibach (standing, second from left, and Nebraska Tourism Executive Director John Ricks (standing, far left) at today’s press briefing." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium, USDA Under Secretary Greg Ibach (standing, second from left, and Nebraska Tourism Executive Director John Ricks (standing, far left) at today’s press briefing.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts highlighted the great work being done by the agriculture and tourism industries to overcome the challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; He also announced the communities where Test Nebraska will operate during the first week of June.Greg Ibach, Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA, joined the Governor for this afternoon’s briefing.&nbsp; He gave an update on the USDA’s efforts to provide assistance to Nebraskans adversely impacted by the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;Nebraska Tourism Executive Director John Ricks also attended today’s press conference to talk about the 2020 Passport Program.&nbsp; Each year, Nebraska Tourism hosts the program to incentivize travelers to visit restaurants and attractions across the state.Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601301456&amp;sdata=YgqEdBFDV3EG5v%2FBDYHNiWAJyR97yr4RdWvzMGFyjMo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test Nebraska will operate in the following communities next week:o&nbsp;&nbsp;Chadron, Alliance, Scottsbluff, Sidney, Broken Bow, Burwell, St. Paul, Valentine, O’Neill, Norfolk, Columbus, York, Lincoln, Fremont, Bellevue, and Omaha.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional information on the specific locations of the testing sites will be posted on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601301456&amp;sdata=YgqEdBFDV3EG5v%2FBDYHNiWAJyR97yr4RdWvzMGFyjMo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;soon.Greg Ibach: Agriculture·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;United States Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue was recently added to the President’s coronavirus task force to represent ag interests.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Early on in the battle against the virus, President Trump declared food processors as essential businesses.o&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re grateful to Governor Ricketts for his cooperation with the USDA and other government agencies to establish safety protocols for packing plants.&nbsp; The protocols have called for additional shielding, masking, and social distancing (when possible). &nbsp;This has helped to provide a safer environment in these workplaces.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During the pandemic, USDA graders and inspectors have been actively ensuring our food safety.&nbsp; I’m pleased to report that no food processors have been delayed on account of USDA regulatory services being unavailable.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The USDA announced the provision of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) payments a little over a week ago.o&nbsp;&nbsp;CFAP payments are direct payments to farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;o&nbsp;&nbsp;There are four main “buckets” of payments for Nebraskans:§&nbsp;&nbsp;Traditional crop payments (soybeans, corn, wheat)§&nbsp;&nbsp;Livestock payments§&nbsp;&nbsp;Dairy payments§&nbsp;&nbsp;Specialty crop payments·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The USDA is also very involved in feeding programs across America.o&nbsp;&nbsp;In Nebraska, we’re going to deliver 1 million pounds of food—valued at almost $1.3 million—to food banks for distribution to those who need assistance.&nbsp;John Ricks: Tourism·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2018 was the first year ever that visitor expenditures in Nebraska, on a percentage basis, outperformed the national average.&nbsp; Nebraska once again outpaced the national average in 2019.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tourism in Nebraska had great momentum heading into 2020, but the coronavirus has been tough for the industry.o&nbsp;&nbsp;In March alone, the Nebraska Tourism Commission’s revenues, which come from a 1% tax on lodging, were down 59%.&nbsp;o&nbsp;&nbsp;We estimate that visitor expenditures in Nebraska dropped about $152.6 million year-over-year in March.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The relaxation of the directed health measures will help the tourism industry a lot.o&nbsp;&nbsp;For instance, the Henry Doorly Zoo, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, and Omaha Storm Chasers baseball games will all be open to visitors—on a limited basis—next month.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There’s a lot of pent up demand.&nbsp; People want to go out and take part in activities.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska’s tourism website (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fvisitnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601311409&amp;sdata=6D4gC7k%2Fcpk4zh2VRuRVcYQi7fQX65xKo%2BmY2OrfBuc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">visitnebraska.com</a>) is bucking the national trend of decreased travel interest. &nbsp;We’ve actually seen a 15% uptick in domestic web traffic from March 1st&nbsp;to now.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Nebraska Passport Program will start on June 1, 2020.&nbsp; It has been highly successful and is now in its tenth year.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraskans can order a Passport through&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskapassport.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601311409&amp;sdata=W0hMDkrxMH5jEidleIZ%2B7qdSZ4EvS6wgbRQsMexbzeY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraskapassport.com</a>.&nbsp; There’s also a Passport app available.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Passport Program provides incentives for travelers to visit Nebraska businesses and attractions.&nbsp; The program had about a $24 million financial impact in 2019.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, the Passport Program will be extended to October 31, 2020.&nbsp; Only 1 of our 70 Passport stops has had to pull out of the program.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re encouraging everyone to practice physical distancing as they’re out and about exploring our beautiful state.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%2F7u4935btgmn2h0e%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.28.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cd7fce83c56a049dad08208d80358312b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637263024601321366&amp;sdata=Lp2pJQmELTQWyCEXNEbV1mJy7fzrB2C7zTNxa8sMi%2F0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Coronavirus Update