The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidelines for essential workers, such as those in the health care and food supply industries. The guidance is focused on when those workers can return to work after having been exposed to the new coronavirus.

— Do take your temperature before work.

— Do practice social distancing as work duties permit.

— Don’t stay at work if you become sick

— Don’t share headsets or objects used near face.

— Don’t congregate in the break room or other crowded places.

The CDC also issued guidance for employers in essential industries.

— Do increase the frequency of cleaning commonly touched surfaces.

— Do increase air exchange in the building.

— Do send sick workers home immediately.

— Do test the use of face masks to ensure they don’t interfere with workflow.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586391131314.png" alt="Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during Wednesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during Wednesday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidelines for essential workers, such as those in the health care and food supply industries. The guidance is focused on when those workers can return to work after having been exposed to the new coronavirus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586391294022.png" alt="CDC" />
 <figcaption>CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>— Do take your temperature before work.— Do wear a face mask at all times.— Do practice social distancing as work duties permit.— Don’t stay at work if you become sick— Don’t share headsets or objects used near face.— Don’t congregate in the break room or other crowded places.The CDC also issued guidance for employers in essential industries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586391231224.png" alt="CDC" />
 <figcaption>CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>— Do increase the frequency of cleaning commonly touched surfaces.— Do increase air exchange in the building.— Do send sick workers home immediately.— Do test the use of face masks to ensure they don’t interfere with workflow.

New CDC guidance for essential workers, employers during coronavirus

86 cases of COVID-19 reported in Hall, Hamilton and Merrick Counties

Nebraska Joint Information daily update (April 8, 2020)

While the North Platte Public Library remains closed to walk-in traffic and public usage, the Library will be re-opening its Book Drop beginning 8:00 AM Thursday, April 9, 2020.&nbsp; Yesterday, the Library received permission from the West Central District Health Department, Jim Hawks, City Administrator and Mayor Dwight Livingston to begin accepting library materials from those patrons who wish to return their items.&nbsp; Upon the return of these items, they will be put through a 72-hour quarantine process.

The Book Drop will only be open while library staff are in the building: Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM, beginning on Thursday, April 9, 2020. Other than during these newly established time periods, the book-drop will remain locked. It should be noted that this is the opposite of normal business operations and that the library remains closed to the public until further notice.

JUST BECAUSE YOU CAN RETURN YOUR BOOKS, DOES NOT MEAN YOU HAVE TO RETURN THEM IMMEDIATELY.&nbsp;If you are unable to return or choose not to for your own health and safety, please continue to hang on to them until this crisis has passed.&nbsp;Once the Coronavirus Situation has subsided and the North Platte Public Library reopens, please return library materials at that time. The library supports your decision to be safe and to protect your health during this crisis.&nbsp;While library fines assessed prior to March 1, 2020, will remain on a library borrower’s account, NO ADDITIONAL FINES will be assessed from March 1, 2020, until after the Library reopens to the public for normal business. Library material due dates continue to be pushed into the future.

DO NOT RETURN LIBRARY MATERIALS&nbsp;IF YOU ARE SICK.&nbsp;If you are sick—STAY HOME.&nbsp; For the health of library staff and the well-being of your family, wash your hands before returning library materials and wash your hands again when you return home. The book drop “handle” will be periodically wiped down throughout the day with a disinfectant.

DO NOT RETURN ITEMS IN REUSABLE PLASTIC OR FABRIC SACKS.

RETURNED ITEMS MUST BE PLACED INSIDE THE LIBRARY’S BOOK DROP -&nbsp;located next to the Library’s front door. Do NOT leave library materials outside the library.

MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING WHEN RETURNING ITEMS.&nbsp;Only one person should return library materials to the library at a time.&nbsp;WAIT IN YOUR CAR&nbsp;if another library patron is also returning items. IF you get out of your car to stand in line to return your materials—MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING&nbsp;by standing behind the red painted line every 6’ on the pavement in order to maintain a safe distance from each other.&nbsp;IF SOCIAL DISTANCING is not observed,&nbsp;the book drop will go back to a locked/closed status.

News Release NP Public LibraryWhile the North Platte Public Library remains closed to walk-in traffic and public usage, the Library will be re-opening its Book Drop beginning 8:00 AM Thursday, April 9, 2020.&nbsp; Yesterday, the Library received permission from the West Central District Health Department, Jim Hawks, City Administrator and Mayor Dwight Livingston to begin accepting library materials from those patrons who wish to return their items.&nbsp; Upon the return of these items, they will be put through a 72-hour quarantine process.The Book Drop will only be open while library staff are in the building: Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM, beginning on Thursday, April 9, 2020. Other than during these newly established time periods, the book-drop will remain locked. It should be noted that this is the opposite of normal business operations and that the library remains closed to the public until further notice.JUST BECAUSE YOU CAN RETURN YOUR BOOKS, DOES NOT MEAN YOU HAVE TO RETURN THEM IMMEDIATELY.&nbsp;If you are unable to return or choose not to for your own health and safety, please continue to hang on to them until this crisis has passed.&nbsp;Once the Coronavirus Situation has subsided and the North Platte Public Library reopens, please return library materials at that time. The library supports your decision to be safe and to protect your health during this crisis.&nbsp;While library fines assessed prior to March 1, 2020, will remain on a library borrower’s account, NO ADDITIONAL FINES will be assessed from March 1, 2020, until after the Library reopens to the public for normal business. Library material due dates continue to be pushed into the future.DO NOT RETURN LIBRARY MATERIALS&nbsp;IF YOU ARE SICK.&nbsp;If you are sick—STAY HOME.&nbsp; For the health of library staff and the well-being of your family, wash your hands before returning library materials and wash your hands again when you return home. The book drop “handle” will be periodically wiped down throughout the day with a disinfectant.DO NOT RETURN ITEMS IN REUSABLE PLASTIC OR FABRIC SACKS.RETURNED ITEMS MUST BE PLACED INSIDE THE LIBRARY’S BOOK DROP -&nbsp;located next to the Library’s front door. Do NOT leave library materials outside the library.MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING WHEN RETURNING ITEMS.&nbsp;Only one person should return library materials to the library at a time.&nbsp;WAIT IN YOUR CAR&nbsp;if another library patron is also returning items. IF you get out of your car to stand in line to return your materials—MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING&nbsp;by standing behind the red painted line every 6’ on the pavement in order to maintain a safe distance from each other.&nbsp;IF SOCIAL DISTANCING is not observed,&nbsp;the book drop will go back to a locked/closed status.

North Platte Public Library reopens book drop, remains closed to walk-in traffic

At his daily COVID-19 press briefing, Governor Pete Ricketts issued Passover and Easter proclamations and designated Sunday, April 12th as a statewide day of prayer for those affected by coronavirus. &nbsp;The Governor also thanked community banks in Nebraska for connecting businesses to much-needed financial resources that are available as part of the federal economic stimulus package (the CARES Act).

Jeff Kanger, Executive Vice President at First State Bank Nebraska, joined the Governor at today’s news conference.&nbsp; He outlined his bank’s efforts to provide low-interest, potentially forgivable loans to small businesses as part of the Paycheck Protection Program.

Gov. Ricketts: Passover and Easter Proclamations / Day of Prayer

Gov. Ricketts: Efforts of Community Banks

Gov. Ricketts: COVID-19 Messaging to Non-English Speakers

The Governor’s Passover proclamation is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fp6v9512hd9xtffc%2F2020%2520Education%252C%2520Sharing%252C%2520and%2520Freedom%2520Day%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C23fb9ffbe6704f9c5a6d08d7dc0bca87%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219815540082687&amp;sdata=FkHAiYAT%2Bl5H57uXgJxRzPCraxc2E%2B6A7yXkGgWEIcI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; His proclamation declaring Easter as a day of prayer is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Ffi2yr05ru0s4j3c%2F2020%2520A%2520Statewide%2520Day%2520of%2520Prayer.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C23fb9ffbe6704f9c5a6d08d7dc0bca87%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219815540082687&amp;sdata=12VLVZv4aL045jgR5z3mZE72VYnM5mmrAf4rPZrCgPw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

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%2Fo0gd7dflxrlnjwv%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.08.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C23fb9ffbe6704f9c5a6d08d7dc0bca87%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219815540092641&amp;sdata=lmLfxovbjV3%2FZokU4VagP2DQ1SGyLwpgpZ3V1bqmxyo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

At his daily COVID-19 press briefing, Governor Pete Ricketts issued Passover and Easter proclamations and designated Sunday, April 12th as a statewide day of prayer for those affected by coronavirus. &nbsp;The Governor also thanked community banks in Nebraska for connecting businesses to much-needed financial resources that are available as part of the federal economic stimulus package (the CARES Act).Jeff Kanger, Executive Vice President at First State Bank Nebraska, joined the Governor at today’s news conference.&nbsp; He outlined his bank’s efforts to provide low-interest, potentially forgivable loans to small businesses as part of the Paycheck Protection Program.Gov. Ricketts: Passover and Easter Proclamations / Day of Prayer<ol>
 <li>This evening marks the beginning of Passover. &nbsp;To everyone who will be celebrating, I wish you a Happy Passover.</li><li>This is also Holy Week for Christians. &nbsp;This Friday will be Good Friday, and Sunday is Resurrection Day.</li><li>It will be an unusual time for all of us observing these holy days this week.</li><li>Please limit Easter and Passover celebrations to family in your household only.We would all like to celebrate with extended family and friends, but it’s important to avoid social gatherings at this time.</li><li>We would all like to celebrate with extended family and friends, but it’s important to avoid social gatherings at this time.</li><li>As Nebraskans celebrate, I invite everyone to pray and reflect on the blessings we have been given. &nbsp;I also encourage Nebraskans to pray for those affected by the pandemic.</li><li>Today, I am signing a proclamation to declare Easter Sunday as a Day of Prayer in Nebraska.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: Efforts of Community Banks<ol>
 <li>Last week, we announced the launch of several federal programs to help our business owners during this time.</li><li>We want to encourage any employer who has experienced substantial financial impact from the pandemic to reach out to their community banker right now.</li><li>Nebraska’s 160 banks are helping keep the state working during an incredibly difficult time.</li><li>Nebraska banks are working tirelessly to support the credit needs of their small business clients across the state, despite a fast rollout for the Paycheck Protection Program.&nbsp;</li><li>Banks are working extra-long days focused on accessing the SBA portal and inputting loan applications for their small business customers.Community bankers are working into the night and starting their days early in the morning.Many are doing this while juggling kids as they work from home.</li><li>Community bankers are working into the night and starting their days early in the morning.</li><li>Many are doing this while juggling kids as they work from home.</li><li>As of the close of business on April 7, 2020 our community banks had already submitted over 7,800 applications for federal review, totaling in excess of $1.47 billion.</li>
 </ol>Jeff Kanger: Efforts of Community Banks<ol>
 <li>I am executive director of a community bank with 150 teammates.</li><li>We’re working with the federal government to deliver the programs included in the CARES Act.</li><li>Specifically, our bank is helping businesses take part in the Paycheck Protection Program.</li><li>Just as a football game has 4 quarters, there are 4 “quarters” of the Payroll Protection Program:Processing the loan application and securing funds.Distributing the funds to small businesses so that they can meet payroll and continue operations.Documenting the use of funds by collecting receipts.Submitting receipts so that the loan can be forgiven.</li><li>Processing the loan application and securing funds.</li><li>Distributing the funds to small businesses so that they can meet payroll and continue operations.</li><li>Documenting the use of funds by collecting receipts.</li><li>Submitting receipts so that the loan can be forgiven.</li><li>We’re committed to partnering with businesses through all four quarters of the process.</li><li>Our teammates have literally been working through the night to get loan applications finalized.</li><li>Other community banks across Nebraska are making preparations to become part of the Paycheck Protection Program.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: COVID-19 Messaging to Non-English Speakers<ol>
 <li>Communities are working hard to spread the word about COVID-19 to non-English speakers.CHI St. Francis is advertising on radio and billboards in Spanish.Grand Island Public Schools has been doing an excellent job of communicating with families for whom English isn’t the primary language.JBS in Grand Island has been providing information on COVID-19 to their teammates who speak Spanish or Arabic.News Channel Nebraska and Telemundo have been working to set up a Spanish-language news bureau in Grand Island.The State of Nebraska is ramping up its efforts to distribute information in Spanish.</li><li>CHI St. Francis is advertising on radio and billboards in Spanish.</li><li>Grand Island Public Schools has been doing an excellent job of communicating with families for whom English isn’t the primary language.</li><li>JBS in Grand Island has been providing information on COVID-19 to their teammates who speak Spanish or Arabic.</li><li>News Channel Nebraska and Telemundo have been working to set up a Spanish-language news bureau in Grand Island.</li><li>The State of Nebraska is ramping up its efforts to distribute information in Spanish.</li>
 </ol>The Governor’s Passover proclamation is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fp6v9512hd9xtffc%2F2020%2520Education%252C%2520Sharing%252C%2520and%2520Freedom%2520Day%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C23fb9ffbe6704f9c5a6d08d7dc0bca87%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219815540082687&amp;sdata=FkHAiYAT%2Bl5H57uXgJxRzPCraxc2E%2B6A7yXkGgWEIcI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; His proclamation declaring Easter as a day of prayer is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Ffi2yr05ru0s4j3c%2F2020%2520A%2520Statewide%2520Day%2520of%2520Prayer.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C23fb9ffbe6704f9c5a6d08d7dc0bca87%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219815540082687&amp;sdata=12VLVZv4aL045jgR5z3mZE72VYnM5mmrAf4rPZrCgPw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.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%2Fo0gd7dflxrlnjwv%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.08.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C23fb9ffbe6704f9c5a6d08d7dc0bca87%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219815540092641&amp;sdata=lmLfxovbjV3%2FZokU4VagP2DQ1SGyLwpgpZ3V1bqmxyo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts proclaims Easter Sunday statewide day of prayer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586382646296.png" alt="loup-basin-4-8-20.png" />
 <figcaption>loup-basin-4-8-20.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

Community spread case of COVID-19 identified in Custer County

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A man who killed an Omaha man with a hatchet in 1981 has died at a hospital, state prison officials said.

Cary Rehbein, 76, died Wednesday, apparently of natural causes while he was being treated for a medical condition, said Laura Strimple, a spokeswoman with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services.

He was serving a life prison sentence at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution for the death of Carl Fisher on Sept. 5, 1981. Prosecutors said Rehbein broke into Fisher's apartment intending to rob him but killed him by striking him with a hatchet, The Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="http://ournalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/76-year-old-inmate-serving-life-sentence-for-omaha-murder-dies-at-hospital/article_79ec23d8-93f7-51c7-9c0b-caf5ba47ddcf.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

Rehbein, who later changed his name to Yourgos Diamantopolos, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison on June 13, 1983.

A grand jury will investigate the death, which is routine procedure when an inmate dies in custody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586381592701.png" alt="Cary&nbsp;Rehbein (NDCS Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Cary&nbsp;Rehbein (NDCS Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A man who killed an Omaha man with a hatchet in 1981 has died at a hospital, state prison officials said.Cary Rehbein, 76, died Wednesday, apparently of natural causes while he was being treated for a medical condition, said Laura Strimple, a spokeswoman with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services.He was serving a life prison sentence at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution for the death of Carl Fisher on Sept. 5, 1981. Prosecutors said Rehbein broke into Fisher's apartment intending to rob him but killed him by striking him with a hatchet, The Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="http://ournalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/76-year-old-inmate-serving-life-sentence-for-omaha-murder-dies-at-hospital/article_79ec23d8-93f7-51c7-9c0b-caf5ba47ddcf.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.Rehbein, who later changed his name to Yourgos Diamantopolos, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison on June 13, 1983.A grand jury will investigate the death, which is routine procedure when an inmate dies in custody.

Man convicted in 1983 hatchet murder in Omaha dies in prison

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - When Nebraska begins to lift social distancing restrictions, it will do so gradually to prevent another surge in coronavirus cases, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Wednesday.

Ricketts said he still hopes to lift some restrictions at the beginning of May, but he plans to take a cautious approach so that public health officials have time to see whether it's causing cases to spike. For instance, he said the state's ban on gatherings of more than 10 people may first be loosened to allow for groups of 20 or 25 people before it's eliminated.

"It would be something along those sorts of lines," Ricketts said at his daily news conference at the Capitol. "Reopening sit-down restaurants and bars may be a part of that as well, too. As we get into this toward the end of the month, we'll be re-evaluating where we are with regard to where the virus is and making those decisions."

Ricketts and public health officials are trying to avoid a flare-up of the virus that could overwhelm the state's hospitals with sick patients. The Republican governor has issued an array of restrictions on public gatherings, such as forcing schools to close and limiting restaurants and bars to takeout, delivery or carryout services. He hasn't issued a formal stay-at-home order as most of the nation's governors have done, although Nebraska's restrictions are similar.

Nebraska and the rest of the world won't return to a "true normal" until public health officials find a vaccine for the virus, said Dr. James Lawler, a University of Nebraska Medical Center infectious disease expert who advised Ricketts on the state's response to the pandemic.

In an interview, Lawler said Nebraska doesn't appear to be as hart-hit as other states, largely because state officials had more time to react with school closures and crowd restrictions than larger states such as New York. But he warned that the situation could change quickly, and "there's a lot of room for improvement" in how well Nebraska residents have followed the restrictions.

"The data that I can see overall are encouraging," Lawler said. "But we still don't have widespread community testing available and we don't have great visibility of disease prevalence in the community."

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

Earlier Wednesday, Nebraska health officials reported more deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. The statewide total is now at least 13.

Lincoln reported that city's first death from the coronavirus. Officials in Douglas County reported two deaths in the Omaha area, including a woman in her 70s and another woman in her 90s who was a long-term care resident at the hard-hit Douglas County Health Center. The long-term care center has seen 15 residents and 10 employees test positive for the disease; two residents there have died.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services also gave some details about two deaths reported earlier. One was a woman in her 60s from Hall County and the other was a man in his 80s from Custer County.

The number of cases statewide had risen to 519 as of midday Wednesday. More than 7,440 residents have tested negative.

By Grant Schulte-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - When Nebraska begins to lift social distancing restrictions, it will do so gradually to prevent another surge in coronavirus cases, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Wednesday.Ricketts said he still hopes to lift some restrictions at the beginning of May, but he plans to take a cautious approach so that public health officials have time to see whether it's causing cases to spike. For instance, he said the state's ban on gatherings of more than 10 people may first be loosened to allow for groups of 20 or 25 people before it's eliminated."It would be something along those sorts of lines," Ricketts said at his daily news conference at the Capitol. "Reopening sit-down restaurants and bars may be a part of that as well, too. As we get into this toward the end of the month, we'll be re-evaluating where we are with regard to where the virus is and making those decisions."Ricketts and public health officials are trying to avoid a flare-up of the virus that could overwhelm the state's hospitals with sick patients. The Republican governor has issued an array of restrictions on public gatherings, such as forcing schools to close and limiting restaurants and bars to takeout, delivery or carryout services. He hasn't issued a formal stay-at-home order as most of the nation's governors have done, although Nebraska's restrictions are similar.Nebraska and the rest of the world won't return to a "true normal" until public health officials find a vaccine for the virus, said Dr. James Lawler, a University of Nebraska Medical Center infectious disease expert who advised Ricketts on the state's response to the pandemic.In an interview, Lawler said Nebraska doesn't appear to be as hart-hit as other states, largely because state officials had more time to react with school closures and crowd restrictions than larger states such as New York. But he warned that the situation could change quickly, and "there's a lot of room for improvement" in how well Nebraska residents have followed the restrictions."The data that I can see overall are encouraging," Lawler said. "But we still don't have widespread community testing available and we don't have great visibility of disease prevalence in the community."For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.Earlier Wednesday, Nebraska health officials reported more deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. The statewide total is now at least 13.Lincoln reported that city's first death from the coronavirus. Officials in Douglas County reported two deaths in the Omaha area, including a woman in her 70s and another woman in her 90s who was a long-term care resident at the hard-hit Douglas County Health Center. The long-term care center has seen 15 residents and 10 employees test positive for the disease; two residents there have died.The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services also gave some details about two deaths reported earlier. One was a woman in her 60s from Hall County and the other was a man in his 80s from Custer County.The number of cases statewide had risen to 519 as of midday Wednesday. More than 7,440 residents have tested negative.

Gov. Ricketts says Nebraska won't ease restrictions all at once

News Release-Nebraska Press Association

Lincoln, NE -- Disability Rights Nebraska and 15 stakeholder organizations issued a call today for Governor Pete Ricketts to protect the rights of Nebraskans with disabilities during the COVID-19 emergency and forbid discriminatory medical rationing.

Some states (https://www.centerforpublicrep.org/news/cpr-and-partners-file-second-complaint-regarding-illegal-disability-discrimination-in-treatment-rationing-during-covid-19-pandemic/) have recently proposed crisis health standards to ration medical care that are overtly discriminatory to people living with developmental, intellectual, psychiatric, and physical disabilities. “People with disabilities being placed at the back of the line—or being forbidden from even getting in the line for care—is not a phantom specter. We’re seeing written protocols for care that would simply discard people living with an intellectual disability, people who regularly use a ventilator, people with neuromuscular disease, people with immunocompromised systems, and people with some forms of cancer.  This isn’t just inhumane—it’s illegal,” said Eric Evans, CEO of Disability Rights Nebraska.

While many states have written crisis standards of care that instruct medical providers how to address an emergency where there are inadequate resources, Nebraska currently has no such plan. “In the absence of leadership from Governor Ricketts, each individual hospital and doctor will be making a judgment call that might result in a patchwork quilt of rights statewide. We need clear guidance from the state now,” Evans added. “We provided legal authority to Governor Ricketts over a week ago, but disappointingly have heard no response. With this statewide coalition of advocates, we hope to have movement as soon as possible ahead of the COVID-19 peak.”

Nationwide, disability rights advocates have filed complaints with the federal Office of Civil Rights to prevent implementation of discriminatory rationing policies. “If any Nebraskan has confronted medical rationing, we urge you to contact Disability Rights Nebraska (https://www.disabilityrightsnebraska.org/need_our_assistance/request_for_assistance.html) so we can investigate,” Evans said.

Disability Rights Nebraska is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) that has been designated to provide protection and advocacy services in Nebraska. Disability Rights Nebraska is the only organization mandated to pursue legal and/or other remedies to defend the rights of Nebraskans with disabilities. Learn more at disabilityrightsnebraska.org.  

  Individuals from the following organizations also signed on to our follow-up letter:   

 The Arc of Nebraska   ACLU Nebraska   Nebraska Appleseed   

  Nebraska Developmental Disabilities Council   University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, MMI, UNMC   Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands   

  Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing   Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired   Nebraska Statewide Independent Living Council   

  Sheltering Tree   Legal Aid of Nebraska   Ollie Webb Center, Inc.   

  Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska   Paralyzed Veterans of America, Great Plains Chapter   People First of Nebraska, Inc.  

April 8, 2020 – By Electronic Mail                                                                 

Re:  Follow-up to letter of March 27, 2019

We the undersigned write with great concern about the need for clear guidelines to protect people with disabilities during the current COVID-19 crisis.

On March 27, 2020, Disability Rights Nebraska wrote to you with a request for binding statewide guidance to ensure that all Nebraskans, including those with psychiatric, developmental, intellectual and physical conditions, are treated fairly without inappropriate rationing of medical care if they contract COVID-19.[1] &lt;#_ftn1&gt;   

All across the country, we are seeing discriminatory proposals to deny ventilator access or other needed medical care for people with a variety of health conditions that deliberately or inadvertently leave out people with disabilities. Nebraska has never created crisis standards of care, which means in this emergency, each hospital or facility can set their own standards. This is not tenable.

We urgently request you to protect all Nebraskans’ right to access medically necessary services by issuing nondiscriminatory statewide guidance to educate all public and private entities. Further, we ask you to affirm the same principles announced by the Office of Civil Rights in their recent guidance to educate all involved that even in this emergency, the delivery of life-saving medical interventions must make treatment decisions consistent with the non-discrimination requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act.[2] &lt;#_ftn2&gt;   

Nebraskans with disabilities and their families and friends are all too familiar with discrimination and wrongful assumptions about their quality of life. The hospitals and medical providers on the front lines of thousands of individual treatment decisions need clear and binding guidance from the state.  The guiding principles outlined by national experts can be adopted in Nebraska.[3] &lt;#_ftn3&gt;

We urge you to bring together a virtual listening session to benefit from the expertise of the undersigned. We await information how the state intends to address the disability community’s concerns regarding discriminatory rationing of care.  Thank you in advance for your consideration of this most important issue, and for your long–standing commitment to Nebraska’s citizens with disabilities.

Executive Director, Nebraska Developmental Disabilities Council

Director, University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, MMI, UNMC

Executive Director, Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands

Executive Director, Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Executive Director, Ollie Webb Center, Inc.

Executive Director, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Executive Director, Nebraska Statewide Independent Living Council

Executive Director, Legal Aid of Nebraska

Government Relations Director, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Great Plains Chapter

Executive Director, Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska

President, People First of Nebraska, Inc.

News Release-Nebraska Press AssociationLincoln, NE -- Disability Rights Nebraska and 15 stakeholder organizations issued a call today for Governor Pete Ricketts to protect the rights of Nebraskans with disabilities during the COVID-19 emergency and forbid discriminatory medical rationing.Some states (https://www.centerforpublicrep.org/news/cpr-and-partners-file-second-complaint-regarding-illegal-disability-discrimination-in-treatment-rationing-during-covid-19-pandemic/) have recently proposed crisis health standards to ration medical care that are overtly discriminatory to people living with developmental, intellectual, psychiatric, and physical disabilities. “People with disabilities being placed at the back of the line—or being forbidden from even getting in the line for care—is not a phantom specter. We’re seeing written protocols for care that would simply discard people living with an intellectual disability, people who regularly use a ventilator, people with neuromuscular disease, people with immunocompromised systems, and people with some forms of cancer. This isn’t just inhumane—it’s illegal,” said Eric Evans, CEO of Disability Rights Nebraska.While many states have written crisis standards of care that instruct medical providers how to address an emergency where there are inadequate resources, Nebraska currently has no such plan. “In the absence of leadership from Governor Ricketts, each individual hospital and doctor will be making a judgment call that might result in a patchwork quilt of rights statewide. We need clear guidance from the state now,” Evans added. “We provided legal authority to Governor Ricketts over a week ago, but disappointingly have heard no response. With this statewide coalition of advocates, we hope to have movement as soon as possible ahead of the COVID-19 peak.”Nationwide, disability rights advocates have filed complaints with the federal Office of Civil Rights to prevent implementation of discriminatory rationing policies. “If any Nebraskan has confronted medical rationing, we urge you to contact Disability Rights Nebraska (https://www.disabilityrightsnebraska.org/need_our_assistance/request_for_assistance.html) so we can investigate,” Evans said.###Disability Rights Nebraska is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) that has been designated to provide protection and advocacy services in Nebraska. Disability Rights Nebraska is the only organization mandated to pursue legal and/or other remedies to defend the rights of Nebraskans with disabilities. Learn more at disabilityrightsnebraska.org. Individuals from the following organizations also signed on to our follow-up letter: The Arc of Nebraska ACLU Nebraska Nebraska Appleseed Nebraska Developmental Disabilities Council University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, MMI, UNMC Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Nebraska Statewide Independent Living Council Sheltering Tree Legal Aid of Nebraska Ollie Webb Center, Inc. Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska Paralyzed Veterans of America, Great Plains Chapter People First of Nebraska, Inc. ACCOMPANYING LETTER:April 8, 2020 – By Electronic Mail Re: Follow-up to letter of March 27, 2019Dear Governor Ricketts:We the undersigned write with great concern about the need for clear guidelines to protect people with disabilities during the current COVID-19 crisis.On March 27, 2020, Disability Rights Nebraska wrote to you with a request for binding statewide guidance to ensure that all Nebraskans, including those with psychiatric, developmental, intellectual and physical conditions, are treated fairly without inappropriate rationing of medical care if they contract COVID-19.[1] &lt;#_ftn1&gt; All across the country, we are seeing discriminatory proposals to deny ventilator access or other needed medical care for people with a variety of health conditions that deliberately or inadvertently leave out people with disabilities. Nebraska has never created crisis standards of care, which means in this emergency, each hospital or facility can set their own standards. This is not tenable.We urgently request you to protect all Nebraskans’ right to access medically necessary services by issuing nondiscriminatory statewide guidance to educate all public and private entities. Further, we ask you to affirm the same principles announced by the Office of Civil Rights in their recent guidance to educate all involved that even in this emergency, the delivery of life-saving medical interventions must make treatment decisions consistent with the non-discrimination requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act.[2] &lt;#_ftn2&gt; Nebraskans with disabilities and their families and friends are all too familiar with discrimination and wrongful assumptions about their quality of life. The hospitals and medical providers on the front lines of thousands of individual treatment decisions need clear and binding guidance from the state. The guiding principles outlined by national experts can be adopted in Nebraska.[3] &lt;#_ftn3&gt;We urge you to bring together a virtual listening session to benefit from the expertise of the undersigned. We await information how the state intends to address the disability community’s concerns regarding discriminatory rationing of care. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this most important issue, and for your long–standing commitment to Nebraska’s citizens with disabilities.Sincerely,Eric Evans, Ph.D.CEO, Disability Rights NebraskaEdison McDonaldExecutive Director, The Arc of NebraskaKristen LarsenExecutive Director, Nebraska Developmental Disabilities CouncilWayne Stuberg, Ph.D.Director, University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, MMI, UNMCDanielle Conrad, J.D.Executive Director, ACLU NebraskaLeah JankeExecutive Director, Down Syndrome Alliance of the MidlandsJohn C. Wyvill, J.D.Executive Director, Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of HearingLaurie AckermannExecutive Director, Ollie Webb Center, Inc.Carlos R. Servan, J.D.Executive Director, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually ImpairedKathy Hoell, MPAExecutive Director, Nebraska Statewide Independent Living CouncilDenise GehringerExecutive Director, Sheltering TreeMilo Mumgaard, J.D.Executive Director, Legal Aid of NebraskaAmanda VazquezGovernment Relations Director, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Great Plains ChapterPeggy Reisher, MSWExecutive Director, Brain Injury Alliance of NebraskaRebecca L. GouldExecutive Director, Nebraska AppleseedTravis SchafferPresident, People First of Nebraska, Inc.

Advocates call on Gov. Ricketts to protect at-risk Nebraskans during COVID-19 outbreak

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continue to increase in Nebraska and nationwide. Slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the state is critical. The actions below help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.

10 actions for Nebraskans to be taking now:

Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those that 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://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9wcmV2ZW50LWdldHRpbmctc2ljay9jbG90aC1mYWNlLWNvdmVyLWZhcS5odG1sP2RlbGl2ZXJ5TmFtZT1VU0NEQ18yMDY3LURNMjUxMzUifQ.e-Via_JYnttppwxDPlC8xKPOLf7pkwS07B-ff-IxrTQ%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849017782&amp;sdata=2WSq%2FUY2T9RwhI3h7mi%2FhVb4AMjY8k7unI0rBcxeZ4w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM25135</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. The use of simple cloth face coverings can help people who may have the virus but not know it from spreading it to others says the CDC.

All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs) until May 11. In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.DfL44k7iLyAoofHploN0_u5zl9MKnBoIkOPtHzrBy_0%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849027737&amp;sdata=fmqIxRHzZa3hLQf80qBrK1OfQE0J0FK%2BQra1DljN5%2Bg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. &nbsp;

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.QgBgVWVLXdGrjKZvie6TdQT7B4c3siXaXdV6qb3kru0%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849027737&amp;sdata=BuKPQ%2F3fYuYZRRuhBRqplm7oy4ZlXcNi7oXT8l%2FEgpY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.2kPgiBoUPJ2vD-mlq3WCiDsjPNBY0-nDVIPHbrZ4bos%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849037713&amp;sdata=TFMz1OIB7HiUmQXSMzhE72mfkL6NjbVuj1rWWrzwH0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</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; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 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://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.Y4aBnQXCKje3U6MqfjmKSG_7na_qyQMZ03GM895vByc%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849037713&amp;sdata=%2BU8tuI86sBiYzpNT8JiPlT0D0rKB0B7%2FRXmD7BSaLcQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Follow DHHS on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySB%252Fpnq7d9Ovu9D4QqvWI0pcxTCXtBc%252FCb1miyg9kCrJjj9ht14%252BlOB2ksTg35BQIn%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.facebook.com%252FNEDHHS%252F%26I%3D20200408194822.00000016f6b0%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlOGUyYTg0Zjg5YmE5NGRkZjU1YzEzYTsxfDEwNDY3NTk6dHJ1ZTs%253D%26S%3DjAmsa7f-sSNLfdhIK-j9Ff2b9ZTVny00ARF2cGhGOgA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849047659&amp;sdata=Bw7LaQVS9d%2BmjR904yTcdj8rXlJ7fOx%2Bx0%2FZ%2FPqsbE4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySB%252Fpnq7d9Ovu9D4QqvWI0pcxTCXtBc%252FCb1miyg9kCrJjj9ht14%252BlOB2ksTg35BQIn%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftwitter.com%252FNEDHHS%26I%3D20200408194822.00000016f6b0%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlOGUyYTg0Zjg5YmE5NGRkZjU1YzEzYTsxfDEwNDY3NTk6dHJ1ZTs%253D%26S%3DHghj_aVjMYCiCo3uvsdsfl7MrjsZbfAEHO79OrgH9VE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849047659&amp;sdata=dvXTX0xgG%2BWQxGYTxKWpmfzLBal3aMngyK7VYeMUAR8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the health of Nebraskans.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continue to increase in Nebraska and nationwide. Slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the state is critical. The actions below help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.10 actions for Nebraskans to be taking now:<ol>
 <li>Stay 6 feet away from others.</li><li>Stay at home and only grocery shop once per week alone.</li><li>Wear a cloth face-covering in public (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) when you can’t stay 6 feet away from others.</li><li>Work from home.</li><li>Hold conference calls or virtual meetings instead of in person.</li><li>Stay home if you or someone in your house has a sudden onset of cough or shortness of breath or fever.</li><li>Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Wash hands right before you eat.</li><li>Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Clean and disinfect frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces, especially counters, handles, doorknobs, tabletops, remotes, and keyboards.</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those that 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://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9wcmV2ZW50LWdldHRpbmctc2ljay9jbG90aC1mYWNlLWNvdmVyLWZhcS5odG1sP2RlbGl2ZXJ5TmFtZT1VU0NEQ18yMDY3LURNMjUxMzUifQ.e-Via_JYnttppwxDPlC8xKPOLf7pkwS07B-ff-IxrTQ%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849017782&amp;sdata=2WSq%2FUY2T9RwhI3h7mi%2FhVb4AMjY8k7unI0rBcxeZ4w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM25135</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. The use of simple cloth face coverings can help people who may have the virus but not know it from spreading it to others says the CDC.All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs) until May 11. In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.DfL44k7iLyAoofHploN0_u5zl9MKnBoIkOPtHzrBy_0%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849027737&amp;sdata=fmqIxRHzZa3hLQf80qBrK1OfQE0J0FK%2BQra1DljN5%2Bg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. &nbsp;Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.QgBgVWVLXdGrjKZvie6TdQT7B4c3siXaXdV6qb3kru0%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849027737&amp;sdata=BuKPQ%2F3fYuYZRRuhBRqplm7oy4ZlXcNi7oXT8l%2FEgpY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.2kPgiBoUPJ2vD-mlq3WCiDsjPNBY0-nDVIPHbrZ4bos%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849037713&amp;sdata=TFMz1OIB7HiUmQXSMzhE72mfkL6NjbVuj1rWWrzwH0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</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; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 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://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDguMTk5Mjk3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.Y4aBnQXCKje3U6MqfjmKSG_7na_qyQMZ03GM895vByc%2Fbr%2F77190355032-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849037713&amp;sdata=%2BU8tuI86sBiYzpNT8JiPlT0D0rKB0B7%2FRXmD7BSaLcQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.Follow DHHS on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySB%252Fpnq7d9Ovu9D4QqvWI0pcxTCXtBc%252FCb1miyg9kCrJjj9ht14%252BlOB2ksTg35BQIn%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.facebook.com%252FNEDHHS%252F%26I%3D20200408194822.00000016f6b0%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlOGUyYTg0Zjg5YmE5NGRkZjU1YzEzYTsxfDEwNDY3NTk6dHJ1ZTs%253D%26S%3DjAmsa7f-sSNLfdhIK-j9Ff2b9ZTVny00ARF2cGhGOgA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849047659&amp;sdata=Bw7LaQVS9d%2BmjR904yTcdj8rXlJ7fOx%2Bx0%2FZ%2FPqsbE4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySB%252Fpnq7d9Ovu9D4QqvWI0pcxTCXtBc%252FCb1miyg9kCrJjj9ht14%252BlOB2ksTg35BQIn%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftwitter.com%252FNEDHHS%26I%3D20200408194822.00000016f6b0%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlOGUyYTg0Zjg5YmE5NGRkZjU1YzEzYTsxfDEwNDY3NTk6dHJ1ZTs%253D%26S%3DHghj_aVjMYCiCo3uvsdsfl7MrjsZbfAEHO79OrgH9VE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce9d70b807a9f4cdc274808d7dbf6ea36%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637219725849047659&amp;sdata=dvXTX0xgG%2BWQxGYTxKWpmfzLBal3aMngyK7VYeMUAR8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the health of Nebraskans.<figure>
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10 actions all Nebraskans should take to slow spread of COVID-19

Due to the generous support provided by the Buffett Early Childhood Fund, we are pleased to announce the formation of the Nebraska Child Care Provider Relief Fund. Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (NCFF) and Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative (NECC) worked together to establish this fund to provide Nebraska-licensed child care programs with a one-time immediate award to ensure the continuity of child care operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The relief fund will award emergency funds to Nebraska licensed family and center-based&nbsp;child care programs that are open and currently serving families in areas of the state that have partnering relationships with NCFF or NECC initiatives. Together, our goal is to recognize the essential role child care professionals play in helping communities weather this crisis and to ease the burden so that programs can focus on caring for children and families.

Funds, based on availability, will be awarded in the amount of $1,000 (one thousand dollars) per applicant. The applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Programs that are serving children of essential workers and/or accept subsidy will be prioritized in the selection process. We will continue to review applications if, at some point, additional funds become available.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

News ReleaseDue to the generous support provided by the Buffett Early Childhood Fund, we are pleased to announce the formation of the Nebraska Child Care Provider Relief Fund. Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (NCFF) and Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative (NECC) worked together to establish this fund to provide Nebraska-licensed child care programs with a one-time immediate award to ensure the continuity of child care operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;The relief fund will award emergency funds to Nebraska licensed family and center-based&nbsp;child care programs that are open and currently serving families in areas of the state that have partnering relationships with NCFF or NECC initiatives. Together, our goal is to recognize the essential role child care professionals play in helping communities weather this crisis and to ease the burden so that programs can focus on caring for children and families.Funds, based on availability, will be awarded in the amount of $1,000 (one thousand dollars) per applicant. The applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Programs that are serving children of essential workers and/or accept subsidy will be prioritized in the selection process. We will continue to review applications if, at some point, additional funds become available.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Child Care Relief Fund formed with support from Buffett Early Childhood Fund

LINCOLN, Neb.-Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) announced today that one resident has died from COVID-19 in Lincoln. LLCHD will have more information this afternoon.

Three new lab-confirmed cases were reported in Lincoln today, bringing the total number of cases in the city to 37.

1LLCHD is now monitoring 110 individuals. Lancaster County reports 1,194 negative tests and 37 positives with 16 tests pending at the Nebraska Public Health Lab. There are now 497 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nebraska and 13 deaths.

The Mayor and LLCHD will hold a briefing at 3:30 p.m. TODAY, Wednesday, April 8. The briefing will be aired live on LNKTV, the City government access channel. The briefing may be viewed on Allo channels 2 and 3, Spectrum channels 1300 and 1301, and Kinetic channels 1005 and 1010. The briefing will also be streamed at LNKTVcity.lincoln.ne.gov and available at YouTube.com/LNKTVcity and Facebook.com/LNKTVcity.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Those who experience these symptoms should self-quarantine and call their health care providers for recommended follow up before visiting. If you need help accessing care, contact the Health Department at 402-441-8006. Do not go to the emergency room unless it is essential.

Those prioritized for testing remain, healthcare workers; public safety personnel; residents and employees of nursing homes and group homes; those attending or working at daycares; and people over 60 or those with underlying health conditions.

Those who have no symptoms do not need to contact a health provider to be tested. Do not go to urgent care, the emergency room, or a doctor's office to get a COVID-19 test. Those test kits and medical personnel must be reserved for individuals in the prioritized categories.

The latest information on local coronavirus response is available at COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov and health.lincoln.ne.gov. LLCHD has established a hotline at 402-441-8006 for questions on COVID-19.

News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) announced today that one resident has died from COVID-19 in Lincoln. LLCHD will have more information this afternoon.Three new lab-confirmed cases were reported in Lincoln today, bringing the total number of cases in the city to 37.1LLCHD is now monitoring 110 individuals. Lancaster County reports 1,194 negative tests and 37 positives with 16 tests pending at the Nebraska Public Health Lab. There are now 497 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nebraska and 13 deaths.The Mayor and LLCHD will hold a briefing at 3:30 p.m. TODAY, Wednesday, April 8. The briefing will be aired live on LNKTV, the City government access channel. The briefing may be viewed on Allo channels 2 and 3, Spectrum channels 1300 and 1301, and Kinetic channels 1005 and 1010. The briefing will also be streamed at LNKTVcity.lincoln.ne.gov and available at YouTube.com/LNKTVcity and Facebook.com/LNKTVcity.Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Those who experience these symptoms should self-quarantine and call their health care providers for recommended follow up before visiting. If you need help accessing care, contact the Health Department at 402-441-8006. Do not go to the emergency room unless it is essential.Those prioritized for testing remain, healthcare workers; public safety personnel; residents and employees of nursing homes and group homes; those attending or working at daycares; and people over 60 or those with underlying health conditions.Those who have no symptoms do not need to contact a health provider to be tested. Do not go to urgent care, the emergency room, or a doctor's office to get a COVID-19 test. Those test kits and medical personnel must be reserved for individuals in the prioritized categories.The latest information on local coronavirus response is available at COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov and health.lincoln.ne.gov. LLCHD has established a hotline at 402-441-8006 for questions on COVID-19.

Lincoln has first death attributed to COVID-19

North Platte Kids Klub, NPPS Summer ELO cancelled for summer due to COVID-19 guidelines 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Health officials in Nebraska reported more deaths from COVID-19 on Wednesday, bringing the state's overall death toll to at least 13.

Lincoln reported that the city's first death from the coronavirus. Hours earlier, officials in Douglas County reported two deaths in the Omaha area, including a woman in her 70s and another woman in her 90s who was a long-term care resident at the hard-hit Douglas County Health Center. The long-term care center has seen 15 residents and 10 employees test positive for the disease; two residents there have died.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services also gave some details of two deaths reported earlier. One was a woman in her 60s from Hall County and the other was a man in his 80s from Custer County.

For most people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">COVID-19,</a>&nbsp;the disease caused by the new coronavirus, causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are among those particularly susceptible to more severe illnesses.

News of the new cases follows&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/06675879ef0e395ee1533dec28744cb8" target="_blank">Nebraska officials' warning Tuesday</a>&nbsp;of an uptick in child abuse cases amid isolation measures meant to stymie the spread of the virus.

Gov. Pete Ricketts said he signed an executive order that would allow Nebraska's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients to collect the benefit for an extra six months. Stephanie Beasley, director of Nebraska's Child and Family Services Division, noted a number of concerning trends in the wake of the outbreak, including a 35% spike in March of SNAP applications from the previous month.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Health officials in Nebraska reported more deaths from COVID-19 on Wednesday, bringing the state's overall death toll to at least 13.Lincoln reported that the city's first death from the coronavirus. Hours earlier, officials in Douglas County reported two deaths in the Omaha area, including a woman in her 70s and another woman in her 90s who was a long-term care resident at the hard-hit Douglas County Health Center. The long-term care center has seen 15 residents and 10 employees test positive for the disease; two residents there have died.The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services also gave some details of two deaths reported earlier. One was a woman in her 60s from Hall County and the other was a man in his 80s from Custer County.The number of cases statewide had risen to 519 as of midday Wednesday. More than 7,440 residents have tested negative.For most people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">COVID-19,</a>&nbsp;the disease caused by the new coronavirus, causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are among those particularly susceptible to more severe illnesses.News of the new cases follows&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/06675879ef0e395ee1533dec28744cb8" target="_blank">Nebraska officials' warning Tuesday</a>&nbsp;of an uptick in child abuse cases amid isolation measures meant to stymie the spread of the virus.Gov. Pete Ricketts said he signed an executive order that would allow Nebraska's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients to collect the benefit for an extra six months. Stephanie Beasley, director of Nebraska's Child and Family Services Division, noted a number of concerning trends in the wake of the outbreak, including a 35% spike in March of SNAP applications from the previous month.

Douglas County reports COVID-19 related death, the 13th in Nebraska

🎥Lincoln pediatrician makes video pleading with Gov. Ricketts to issue stay-at-home order

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — In the middle of a pandemic, country music's biggest stars still play on.

1Showing unscripted parts of their lives, artists performed from home for “ACM Presents: Our Country," on CBS on Sunday, in lieu of the delayed Academy of Country Music Awards. Children, spouses and even a horse made cameos in the homemade videos from stars like Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley and Shania Twain.

Keith Urban gave thanks to the medical workers on the front lines and Carrie Underwood raised a glass of wine from her couch.

The country stars also paid tribute to the late Kenny Rogers, who died at age 81 last month.&nbsp;

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — In the middle of a pandemic, country music's biggest stars still play on.1Showing unscripted parts of their lives, artists performed from home for “ACM Presents: Our Country," on CBS on Sunday, in lieu of the delayed Academy of Country Music Awards. Children, spouses and even a horse made cameos in the homemade videos from stars like Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley and Shania Twain.Keith Urban gave thanks to the medical workers on the front lines and Carrie Underwood raised a glass of wine from her couch.The country stars also paid tribute to the late Kenny Rogers, who died at age 81 last month.&nbsp;

At home with kids, pets and spouses, country stars play on

Unified Command confirms four additional confirmed cases in Scotts Bluff County. Two are females, one in her teens and one in her 60s; and two males, one in his 20s and one in his 40s. They are close contacts to two of the recent positives. One person is hospitalized, the others are recovering at home. 

Everyone that is identified as a close contact of those testing positive will be notified by public health and will be placed in quarantine for 14 days since their last exposure. Any additional information will be released when investigations are completed. &nbsp;

Testing Results March 2-April 7, 2020

Total Tests Conducted in the Panhandle: 282

Three have recovered and are out of isolation

All Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;

Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;

Keep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.

Stay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.

Stay in touch with friends and loved ones

Check in on people who may be alone or need help.

Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. 

For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. &nbsp;Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

By PPHDUnified Command confirms four additional confirmed cases in Scotts Bluff County. Two are females, one in her teens and one in her 60s; and two males, one in his 20s and one in his 40s. They are close contacts to two of the recent positives. One person is hospitalized, the others are recovering at home. Everyone that is identified as a close contact of those testing positive will be notified by public health and will be placed in quarantine for 14 days since their last exposure. Any additional information will be released when investigations are completed. &nbsp;Testing Results March 2-April 7, 2020Total Tests Conducted in the Panhandle: 282Positive: 21Scotts Bluff County: Ten CasesThree have recovered and are out of isolationKimball County: Ten CasesCheyenne County: One caseAll Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;Stay Home Stay home whenever possible. Avoid gathering in any groups.Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;Stay HealthyKeep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.Wash your handsStay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.Stay ConnectedStay in touch with friends and loved onesCheck in on people who may be alone or need help.Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. &nbsp;Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

4 new COVID-19 cases in Scotts Bluff County, Panhandle total count to 21

MIAMI (AP) — A raucous beach party thrown by several children of Venezuela’s ruling elite has led to a cluster of coronavirus cases. 

It's also shown how the revelry hasn't stopped for the wealthy amid a widening pandemic in a country already gripped by crisis. 

The elites took private planes to a Caribbean island and brought in prostitutes from Europe while Venezuela went on lockdown last month. 

Anger has been deepening in the world's most unequal region, where jet-setting elites have imported the virus to Latin America but the poor are bearing the brunt.

MIAMI (AP) — A raucous beach party thrown by several children of Venezuela’s ruling elite has led to a cluster of coronavirus cases. It's also shown how the revelry hasn't stopped for the wealthy amid a widening pandemic in a country already gripped by crisis. The elites took private planes to a Caribbean island and brought in prostitutes from Europe while Venezuela went on lockdown last month. Anger has been deepening in the world's most unequal region, where jet-setting elites have imported the virus to Latin America but the poor are bearing the brunt.

Sex. Drugs. Virus. Venezuela elites still party in pandemic

The news came down early in the day on April 7th that the American Legion would be cancelling all Regional play and above, including the Legion world series due to the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

Everything below that level can still be played.&nbsp;

An update from the American Legion states: "State associations have the opportunity to compete up to the State Tournament level. Florida, Iowa, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Tennessee have already decided to cancel all state competition for the 2020 season."&nbsp;

According to Justin Janas, the Director of North Platte Legion operations, the las notification the team received was on March 23rd stating that the Department Athletic Committee recommends all Nebraska Legion Baseball teams suspend all baseball activities until all restrictions have been lifted.&nbsp; Janas remains optimistic that Legion ball will still go on this summer.&nbsp;

"At the time we received the notice on March 23rd, their intention was to still have a baseball season, even though it will most likely be a shortened one. I assumed they would cancel the regional tournaments and world series and all out of state travel. I'm trying to stay optimistic that we will still play Legion baseball."

With sports being cancelled left and right throughout the nation, there is a grim picture being painted. That doesn't matter to the members of the North Platte Legion team, they want to play ball and are working hard to make that happen.&nbsp; We will keep you updated as more information comes available.&nbsp;

The news came down early in the day on April 7th that the American Legion would be cancelling all Regional play and above, including the Legion world series due to the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;Everything below that level can still be played.&nbsp;An update from the American Legion states: "State associations have the opportunity to compete up to the State Tournament level. Florida, Iowa, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Tennessee have already decided to cancel all state competition for the 2020 season."&nbsp;According to Justin Janas, the Director of North Platte Legion operations, the las notification the team received was on March 23rd stating that the Department Athletic Committee recommends all Nebraska Legion Baseball teams suspend all baseball activities until all restrictions have been lifted.&nbsp; Janas remains optimistic that Legion ball will still go on this summer.&nbsp;"At the time we received the notice on March 23rd, their intention was to still have a baseball season, even though it will most likely be a shortened one. I assumed they would cancel the regional tournaments and world series and all out of state travel. I'm trying to stay optimistic that we will still play Legion baseball."With sports being cancelled left and right throughout the nation, there is a grim picture being painted. That doesn't matter to the members of the North Platte Legion team, they want to play ball and are working hard to make that happen.&nbsp; We will keep you updated as more information comes available.&nbsp;

NP First Nationals Legion team remains optimistic after league cancels regional and WS play

PALMETTO, Fla. (AP) — Mounds of harvested zucchini and yellow squash ripened and then rotted in the hot Florida sun. Juicy tomatoes were left to wither — unpicked — in farmers' fields.

Thousands of acres of fruits and vegetables grown in Florida are being plowed over or left to rot because farmers can’t sell to restaurants, theme parks or schools nationwide that have closed because of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cc8214b0c42569742e1d7f56c18025d9">coronavirus</a>.

Other states are having the same issues — agriculture officials say leafy greens in California are being hit especially hard, and dairy farmers in Vermont and Wisconsin say they have had to dump a surplus of milk intended for restaurants.

With most of its harvests in the winter months, the problem is acute in Florida. For example, a few dozen people clamored to buy 25-pound (11- kilogram) boxes of Roma tomatoes direct from a packing plant over the weekend in Palmetto, a city on the western coast.

“This is a catastrophe,” said tomato grower Tony DiMare, who owns farms in south Florida and the Tampa Bay area. “We haven’t even started to calculate it. It’s going to be in the millions of dollars. Losses mount every day.”

Florida leads the U.S. in harvesting tomatoes, green beans, cabbage and peppers this time of year. While some of the crops are meant for grocery stores, many farmers cater solely to the so-called food service market — restaurants, schools and theme parks — hit hard as cities and states have ordered people to stay home and avoid others.

The loss has created a domino effect through the farming industry, Florida’s second-largest economic driver. It yields $155 billion in revenue and supports about 2 million jobs.

Many growers have donated produce to food banks, but there’s a limit on what the charities can accept and storage is an issue for perishable fruits and vegetables. DiMare said some central Florida food banks are full after theme parks shuttered and donated massive amounts of produce.

“We gave 400,000 pounds of tomatoes to our local food banks,” DiMare said. “A million more pounds will have to be donated if we can get the food banks to take it.”

Farmers are scrambling to sell to grocery stores, but it's not easy. Large chains already have contracts with farmers who grow for retail — many from outside the U.S.

“We can’t even give our product away, and we're allowing imports to come in here,” DiMare said.

He said 80 percent of the tomatoes grown in Florida are meant for now-shuttered restaurants and theme parks.

In the past week, 20 federal lawmakers from Florida and state Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried sent letters urging U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to include Florida farmers in federal food purchase and distribution programs so the surplus crops can help feed the hungry and food insecure. Some 37 million Americans struggled with hunger before the pandemic, according to Feeding America, a nationwide network food banks.

The federal coronavirus relief act contains $9.5 billion in aid to farmers.

Some farmers have tried to branch out and sell produce boxes directly to customers, an approach taken in many places as the pandemic slams the restaurant and catering industries worldwide.

Wholesalers in London who usually sell fruit and vegetables to restaurants have pivoted to home deliveries. But large-scale farmers know selling harvest baskets won’t do much for their bottom line.

On the U.S. West Coast, farmers who grow lettuce and other leafy greens are feeling the pinch.

“The tail end of the winter vegetable season in Yuma, Arizona, was devastating for farmers who rely on food service buyers,” said Cory Lunde, spokesman for Western Growers, a group representing family farmers in California, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. “And now, as the production shifts back to Salinas, California, there are many farmers who have crops in the ground that will be left unharvested," particularly leafy greens.

He said a spike in demand for produce at the beginning of the outbreak has now subsided.

“People are staying home and not visiting the grocery stores as often," Lunde said. “So the dominoes are continuing to fall.”

In southern Florida, Paul Allen, president of R.C. Hatton Farms, took a video last week of row after row of vibrant green beans that were scheduled to be shipped to the restaurant industry.

“You can see this is a huge field of green beans,” he said, lifting his cellphone camera to show a tractor plowing all the healthy plants and their beans into the soil.

Allen, who farms about 12,000 acres (4,900 hectares) in Florida and Georgia, is praying that things improve by the time crops in north Florida and Georgia are ready to be harvested over the next two months.

“You just hope you can live another day,” Allen said.

PALMETTO, Fla. (AP) — Mounds of harvested zucchini and yellow squash ripened and then rotted in the hot Florida sun. Juicy tomatoes were left to wither — unpicked — in farmers' fields.Thousands of acres of fruits and vegetables grown in Florida are being plowed over or left to rot because farmers can’t sell to restaurants, theme parks or schools nationwide that have closed because of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cc8214b0c42569742e1d7f56c18025d9">coronavirus</a>.Other states are having the same issues — agriculture officials say leafy greens in California are being hit especially hard, and dairy farmers in Vermont and Wisconsin say they have had to dump a surplus of milk intended for restaurants.With most of its harvests in the winter months, the problem is acute in Florida. For example, a few dozen people clamored to buy 25-pound (11- kilogram) boxes of Roma tomatoes direct from a packing plant over the weekend in Palmetto, a city on the western coast.The cost per box? Just $5.“This is a catastrophe,” said tomato grower Tony DiMare, who owns farms in south Florida and the Tampa Bay area. “We haven’t even started to calculate it. It’s going to be in the millions of dollars. Losses mount every day.”Florida leads the U.S. in harvesting tomatoes, green beans, cabbage and peppers this time of year. While some of the crops are meant for grocery stores, many farmers cater solely to the so-called food service market — restaurants, schools and theme parks — hit hard as cities and states have ordered people to stay home and avoid others.The loss has created a domino effect through the farming industry, Florida’s second-largest economic driver. It yields $155 billion in revenue and supports about 2 million jobs.Many growers have donated produce to food banks, but there’s a limit on what the charities can accept and storage is an issue for perishable fruits and vegetables. DiMare said some central Florida food banks are full after theme parks shuttered and donated massive amounts of produce.“We gave 400,000 pounds of tomatoes to our local food banks,” DiMare said. “A million more pounds will have to be donated if we can get the food banks to take it.”Farmers are scrambling to sell to grocery stores, but it's not easy. Large chains already have contracts with farmers who grow for retail — many from outside the U.S.“We can’t even give our product away, and we're allowing imports to come in here,” DiMare said.He said 80 percent of the tomatoes grown in Florida are meant for now-shuttered restaurants and theme parks.In the past week, 20 federal lawmakers from Florida and state Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried sent letters urging U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to include Florida farmers in federal food purchase and distribution programs so the surplus crops can help feed the hungry and food insecure. Some 37 million Americans struggled with hunger before the pandemic, according to Feeding America, a nationwide network food banks.The federal coronavirus relief act contains $9.5 billion in aid to farmers.Some farmers have tried to branch out and sell produce boxes directly to customers, an approach taken in many places as the pandemic slams the restaurant and catering industries worldwide.Wholesalers in London who usually sell fruit and vegetables to restaurants have pivoted to home deliveries. But large-scale farmers know selling harvest baskets won’t do much for their bottom line.On the U.S. West Coast, farmers who grow lettuce and other leafy greens are feeling the pinch.“The tail end of the winter vegetable season in Yuma, Arizona, was devastating for farmers who rely on food service buyers,” said Cory Lunde, spokesman for Western Growers, a group representing family farmers in California, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. “And now, as the production shifts back to Salinas, California, there are many farmers who have crops in the ground that will be left unharvested," particularly leafy greens.He said a spike in demand for produce at the beginning of the outbreak has now subsided.“People are staying home and not visiting the grocery stores as often," Lunde said. “So the dominoes are continuing to fall.”In southern Florida, Paul Allen, president of R.C. Hatton Farms, took a video last week of row after row of vibrant green beans that were scheduled to be shipped to the restaurant industry.“You can see this is a huge field of green beans,” he said, lifting his cellphone camera to show a tractor plowing all the healthy plants and their beans into the soil.Allen, who farms about 12,000 acres (4,900 hectares) in Florida and Georgia, is praying that things improve by the time crops in north Florida and Georgia are ready to be harvested over the next two months.“You just hope you can live another day,” Allen said.

Coronavirus claims an unexpected victim: Florida vegetables

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem says the stronger executive orders she issued this week are necessary to delay a surge in hospitalizations from the coronavirus, but that a statewide lock down on daily life is still not needed. 

The orders tell businesses to limit group sizes and directs people in Minnehaha and Lincoln counties to stay home if they are over 65 or have chronic health problems. 

The governor has resisted issuing a statewide order to stay home or close businesses. Health officials report two new deaths from the coronavirus, along with 32 new confirmed cases. 

Noem is also proclaiming Wednesday a day of prayer.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem says the stronger executive orders she issued this week are necessary to delay a surge in hospitalizations from the coronavirus, but that a statewide lock down on daily life is still not needed. The orders tell businesses to limit group sizes and directs people in Minnehaha and Lincoln counties to stay home if they are over 65 or have chronic health problems. The governor has resisted issuing a statewide order to stay home or close businesses. Health officials report two new deaths from the coronavirus, along with 32 new confirmed cases. Noem is also proclaiming Wednesday a day of prayer.

Stronger orders necessary to delay hospital surge in South Dakota

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will answer questions from Nebraskans during a third one-hour NET News town hall meeting about COVID-19 and our state’s response at 8:30 p.m. CT, Thursday, April 9, on NET, Nebraska’s PBS &amp; NPR Stations.

Along with Gov. Ricketts, questions will be answered by Dr. James Lawler, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and director of International Programs and Innovation at the Global Center for Health Security; and Tony Goins, director of economic development for Nebraska.

“Speaking of Nebraska: COVID-19 Town Hall with Governor Ricketts” will be carried on television and radio by NET. It will also be streamed on the NET website, the NET Nebraska app and on Facebook.

Viewers and listeners may ask questions during the town hall program by calling 1-800-676-5446 or 402-472-1212. Both before and during the broadcast, questions can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:news@netNebraska.org" target="_blank">news@netNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or submitted to the Facebook pages for&nbsp;<a href="http://facebook.com/netNebraska" target="_blank">NET Nebraska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://facebook.com/netnewsNebraska" target="_blank">NET News</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NET-Radio-58056117013/" target="_blank">NET Radio</a>. Questions can also be submitted via Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #COVID19Nebraska.

Nebraskans can follow the latest news on COVID-19 in Nebraska, plus get information on the coronavirus disease and resources for reducing risk of infection at&nbsp;<a href="http://netnebraska.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">netNebraska.org/coronavirus.</a>

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will answer questions from Nebraskans during a third one-hour NET News town hall meeting about COVID-19 and our state’s response at 8:30 p.m. CT, Thursday, April 9, on NET, Nebraska’s PBS &amp; NPR Stations.Along with Gov. Ricketts, questions will be answered by Dr. James Lawler, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and director of International Programs and Innovation at the Global Center for Health Security; and Tony Goins, director of economic development for Nebraska.“Speaking of Nebraska: COVID-19 Town Hall with Governor Ricketts” will be carried on television and radio by NET. It will also be streamed on the NET website, the NET Nebraska app and on Facebook.Viewers and listeners may ask questions during the town hall program by calling 1-800-676-5446 or 402-472-1212. Both before and during the broadcast, questions can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:news@netNebraska.org" target="_blank">news@netNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or submitted to the Facebook pages for&nbsp;<a href="http://facebook.com/netNebraska" target="_blank">NET Nebraska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://facebook.com/netnewsNebraska" target="_blank">NET News</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NET-Radio-58056117013/" target="_blank">NET Radio</a>. Questions can also be submitted via Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #COVID19Nebraska.Nebraskans can follow the latest news on COVID-19 in Nebraska, plus get information on the coronavirus disease and resources for reducing risk of infection at&nbsp;<a href="http://netnebraska.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">netNebraska.org/coronavirus.</a>

Coronavirus Update