LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that President Donald J. Trump had approved Nebraska’s request for federal disaster assistance.&nbsp; Governor Ricketts submitted the request to aid Nebraska in its ongoing response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Thank you to President Trump for approving Nebraska’s disaster request,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Nebraskans are coming together to win the war against the virus, and this declaration will help our state fulfilling that mission.”&nbsp;

“I want to remind everyone that the next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska. &nbsp;We are asking Nebraskans to further limit social interactions. &nbsp;Everyone should work, go home, and shop once a week.”

President Trump’s disaster declaration is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-approves-nebraska-disaster-declaration-6/" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that President Donald J. Trump had approved Nebraska’s request for federal disaster assistance.&nbsp; Governor Ricketts submitted the request to aid Nebraska in its ongoing response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.“Thank you to President Trump for approving Nebraska’s disaster request,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Nebraskans are coming together to win the war against the virus, and this declaration will help our state fulfilling that mission.”&nbsp;“I want to remind everyone that the next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska. &nbsp;We are asking Nebraskans to further limit social interactions. &nbsp;Everyone should work, go home, and shop once a week.”President Trump’s disaster declaration is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-approves-nebraska-disaster-declaration-6/" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts thanks President Trump for federal disaster declaration

April 4, 2020 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Today, Director Scott R. Frakes announced that a staff member in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). The staff member is employed at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP) and has been isolated at home for the past 10 days.

This is the first confirmed case of COVID-19 to be diagnosed among any inmates or staff members in NDCS. No other individuals who have been in contact with the staff member have indicated symptoms consistent with COVID-19. The case has been reported to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department.

On Friday, April 3, 2020, staff members started wearing masks within all NDCS prison facilities and buildings, including Central Office, where most of the agency’s administrative team members work. The masks, orange in color and made from a polyester/cotton blend, are being manufactured by Cornhusker State Industries (CSI). Distribution of masks will continue through the weekend.

“Based on community spread and the increased availability of testing, we’ve been preparing for the scenario in which staff members or inmates tested positive for COVID-19,” said Dir. Frakes. “Having staff members in protective masks will help reduce the transmission of the illness through airborne droplets.”

Staff members have also been undergoing an entry screening process – answering a series of questions to assess their potential exposure to COVID-19. The agency is awaiting a shipment of thermometers that will be utilized to detect fever in staff members who arrive for work.

“The agency placed an initial order for thermometers several weeks ago which was stolen during delivery. It is expected that the second shipment will arrive soon,” noted Dir. Frakes.

“Again, the masks are a way to prevent others from catching what you might already be carrying. We will continue to make decisions as circumstances evolve and in the best interest of the safety of those who work live and work in our facilities.”

April 4, 2020 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Today, Director Scott R. Frakes announced that a staff member in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). The staff member is employed at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP) and has been isolated at home for the past 10 days.This is the first confirmed case of COVID-19 to be diagnosed among any inmates or staff members in NDCS. No other individuals who have been in contact with the staff member have indicated symptoms consistent with COVID-19. The case has been reported to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department.On Friday, April 3, 2020, staff members started wearing masks within all NDCS prison facilities and buildings, including Central Office, where most of the agency’s administrative team members work. The masks, orange in color and made from a polyester/cotton blend, are being manufactured by Cornhusker State Industries (CSI). Distribution of masks will continue through the weekend.“Based on community spread and the increased availability of testing, we’ve been preparing for the scenario in which staff members or inmates tested positive for COVID-19,” said Dir. Frakes. “Having staff members in protective masks will help reduce the transmission of the illness through airborne droplets.”Staff members have also been undergoing an entry screening process – answering a series of questions to assess their potential exposure to COVID-19. The agency is awaiting a shipment of thermometers that will be utilized to detect fever in staff members who arrive for work.“The agency placed an initial order for thermometers several weeks ago which was stolen during delivery. It is expected that the second shipment will arrive soon,” noted Dir. Frakes.“Again, the masks are a way to prevent others from catching what you might already be carrying. We will continue to make decisions as circumstances evolve and in the best interest of the safety of those who work live and work in our facilities.”

Nebraska corrections employee tests positive for COVID-19

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC</a> now recommends wearing cloth face masks in public places.

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tPx1yqvJgf4"></iframe>
 <figcaption>U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams demonstrates how to make low-tech face masks using what you have at home.</figcaption>
 </figure>CDCWASHINGTON, D.C. - The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC</a> now recommends wearing cloth face masks in public places.<h2>Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others</h2><ol>
 <li>You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.</li><li>Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.</li><li>Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.</li><li>The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.</li><li>Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.</li><li>Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.</li>
 </ol>

🎥 CDC: How to make a face mask in 45 seconds

LINCOLN-Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) announced that four more lab-confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln have been reported, bringing the community's total to 18. The cases are three individuals in their 50s and one in their 60s. LLCHD is conducting its investigation of contacts and will provide more information tomorrow.

Of the previous 14 cases reported in Lincoln, 11 were travel-related and three were community-acquired.

LLCHD is now monitoring 100 individuals. Lancaster County reports 571 negative tests and 18 positives with 10 cases pending at the Nebraska Public Health Lab. There are now 327 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nebraska and six deaths.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.&nbsp;Those who experience these symptoms should self-quarantine and call their health care providers for recommended follow up before visiting.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/">COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/health/">health.lincoln.ne.gov</a>. LLCHD has established a hotline at 402-441-8006 for questions on COVID-19.

News ReleaseLINCOLN-Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) announced that four more lab-confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln have been reported, bringing the community's total to 18. The cases are three individuals in their 50s and one in their 60s. LLCHD is conducting its investigation of contacts and will provide more information tomorrow.Of the previous 14 cases reported in Lincoln, 11 were travel-related and three were community-acquired.LLCHD is now monitoring 100 individuals. Lancaster County reports 571 negative tests and 18 positives with 10 cases pending at the Nebraska Public Health Lab. There are now 327 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nebraska and six deaths.Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.&nbsp;Those who experience these symptoms should self-quarantine and call their health care providers for recommended follow up before visiting.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/">COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/health/">health.lincoln.ne.gov</a>. LLCHD has established a hotline at 402-441-8006 for questions on COVID-19.

4 more cases of COVID-19 reported in city of Lincoln

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts has expanded to all 93 Nebraska counties an enforceable order that limits gatherings to fewer than 10 and closes many non-essential businesses and services.

The expanded order Friday night was followed Saturday by news that a Nebraska State Penitentiary staff member tested positive for COVID-19 - the first confirmed case within the state's prison system. The Douglas County Health Department also confirmed two additional deaths Saturday from the virus - a man in his 80s who was a resident of the Douglas County Health Center, a long-term care facility, and a woman older than 70. Both had multiple underlying medical conditions. That brought Nebraska's total COVID-19 deaths to eight.

Ricketts had earlier resisted expanding the order statewide, preferring a regional approach.

"The next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska," Ricketts said in a written statement.

The directed health measure began last month in eastern Nebraska counties surrounding the state's largest city of Omaha, then was expanded to 56 counties until Friday's statewide order, which is in effect until May 11. It restricts public gatherings, closes restaurant dining rooms and bars to the public and requires people showing symptoms the virus to quarantine.

For most people, COVID-19, the disease caused by the 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.

The number of positive COVID-19 cases in the state rose to at least 301 on Saturday, based on numbers from various health agencies.

A news release Saturday from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services say the infected staff member is the first confirmed case of the virus to be diagnosed among any state inmates or staff members. No other people who have been in contact with the staff member have shown symptoms, the release said, and the infected staff member has been isolated at home for the past 10 days.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts has expanded to all 93 Nebraska counties an enforceable order that limits gatherings to fewer than 10 and closes many non-essential businesses and services.The expanded order Friday night was followed Saturday by news that a Nebraska State Penitentiary staff member tested positive for COVID-19 - the first confirmed case within the state's prison system. The Douglas County Health Department also confirmed two additional deaths Saturday from the virus - a man in his 80s who was a resident of the Douglas County Health Center, a long-term care facility, and a woman older than 70. Both had multiple underlying medical conditions. That brought Nebraska's total COVID-19 deaths to eight.Ricketts had earlier resisted expanding the order statewide, preferring a regional approach."The next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska," Ricketts said in a written statement.The directed health measure began last month in eastern Nebraska counties surrounding the state's largest city of Omaha, then was expanded to 56 counties until Friday's statewide order, which is in effect until May 11. It restricts public gatherings, closes restaurant dining rooms and bars to the public and requires people showing symptoms the virus to quarantine.For most people, COVID-19, the disease caused by the 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.The number of positive COVID-19 cases in the state rose to at least 301 on Saturday, based on numbers from various health agencies.A news release Saturday from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services say the infected staff member is the first confirmed case of the virus to be diagnosed among any state inmates or staff members. No other people who have been in contact with the staff member have shown symptoms, the release said, and the infected staff member has been isolated at home for the past 10 days.

Nebraska governor extends order limiting gatherings

VALENTINE, Neb. (AP) - The federal parks service has announced the closure of the Niobrara National Scenic River visitors center in Valentine as officials seek to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The National Park Service says the center closed Thursday and will remain closed until further notice. The service will provide updates on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/niob/index.htm" target="_blank">website&nbsp;</a>and social media channels. The outer door of the center's vestibule will be unlocked from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays to allow visitors to pick up brochures or get their National Park passport stamped.

Outdoor public spaces along the Niobrara River will remain accessible to the public, but the service asks people to practice safe distancing from one another.

VALENTINE, Neb. (AP) - The federal parks service has announced the closure of the Niobrara National Scenic River visitors center in Valentine as officials seek to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.The National Park Service says the center closed Thursday and will remain closed until further notice. The service will provide updates on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/niob/index.htm" target="_blank">website&nbsp;</a>and social media channels. The outer door of the center's vestibule will be unlocked from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays to allow visitors to pick up brochures or get their National Park passport stamped.Outdoor public spaces along the Niobrara River will remain accessible to the public, but the service asks people to practice safe distancing from one another.

Virus outbreak leads Niobrara River visitors center to close

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Simeon family was heading home to Omaha from a Smoky Mountains vacation when Kim Simeon spotted a social media post from the Nebraska Humane Society, pleading with people to consider fostering a pet amid concerns about how the coronavirus would affect operations.

A day later, a 1 1/2-year-old black lab mix named Nala was nestling in at her home. Nala is one of 35 dogs and cats that have been placed with Omaha-area families as part of an emergency foster care program.

"I just felt like, with all the virus stuff going on, it just seemed like a need we could help with," Simeon said. "We're all quarantined anyway. I mean, what a perfect opportunity to do something good."

Amid an avalanche of bad news, Simeon's story and thousands like it across the country are prompting smiles as suddenly isolated people rush to care for animals, easing a burden on shelters and providing homes - even if just temporarily - for homeless dogs, cats and other pets.

Shelters from California to New York have put out the call for people to temporarily foster pets. Thanks to an overwhelming response from people who suddenly found themselves stuck at home, shelters say they have placed record numbers of dogs, cats and other animals. If past trends hold, many of those who agree to temporarily care for a pet will ultimately decide they want the animal to stay for good.

"We have a waiting list of 2,000 people wanting to foster," said Dr. Apryl Steele, president and CEO of Dumb Friends League shelter in Denver. It's the largest animal shelter in the Rocky Mountain region, caring for an average of 22,000 animals a year.

Steele said the initial push there to foster animals came not from the shelter, but the community.

"We had people reaching out to us all of a sudden," she said. "People just wanted to do something to help. We realized pretty quickly that we could soon be facing a shutdown of our adoptions and got on board."

Shelters have several reasons for pushing to foster out animals, Steele said, including the fear that they might have to stop adopting out animals if people can't visit them or that they might see an influx of people surrendering animals amid economic woes. But the overriding factor, she said, was a concern for workers' health.

"We need to get to a skeleton staff, stat. We can't do that if the shelter is full," she said.

Stephanie Filer, spokeswoman for Animal Rescue League of Iowa also noted that shelters are seeing a drop in donations - a normal occurrence during an economic downturn. The Des Moines-based organization and others have also had to cancel fundraising events because of virus containment efforts.

The good news is that when Filer's group put out a call for temporary homes for at least 80 cats in their care, it received some 160 applications within 12 hours. She noted that 60% to 70% of people who foster an animal opt to keep the animal permanently.

"A crisis brings out the worst in people and the best in people, so we are thrilled to see some exciting things come from this awful situation," she said.

Since mid-March, the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has seen 1,600 people volunteer to foster, and the Oregon Humane Society in Portland has seen 1,000 new foster volunteers.

The outpouring comes at a critical time because animals produce lots of litters in the spring, said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, president of the San Francisco SPCA.

"You have shelter leaders around the country who are just looking at this tidal wave that is coming our way," Scarlett said.

In Washington, D.C., the Humane Rescue Alliance said more than 1,000 people signed up to foster in a 10-day period this month.

One of those was first-time foster volunteer Katie Lee, who is now caring for Calvin, a 2-year-old terrier mix. A move to working from home during the coronavirus scare prompted her decision, because "at least I'm home a lot."

Ina Offret, of Anchorage, Alaska, agreed to foster 10-year-old Kelsey after a local shelter called saying it had no room for more animals and was desperate to clear space. Kelsey, a poodle mix, joined Offret's poodle Suzie.

If she had been asked a month ago if she was ready to take in another dog, Offret said, she would have politely declined, noting she had had three dogs under her roof until last year, when old age took the other two.

"I had reached a point in my life when I decided I don't want multiple dogs," Offret said. "Then the coronavirus hit."

Offret said she hasn't changed her mind about wanting to be a single-dog family, but said Kelsey has a home until another family can be found.

"I'm going to keep her until whenever that is," Offret said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586006952163.png" alt="Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/27587002@N07/">Jonathan Kriz</a>&nbsp;Flickr" />
 <figcaption>Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/27587002@N07/">Jonathan Kriz</a>&nbsp;Flickr</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARGERY A. BECK-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Simeon family was heading home to Omaha from a Smoky Mountains vacation when Kim Simeon spotted a social media post from the Nebraska Humane Society, pleading with people to consider fostering a pet amid concerns about how the coronavirus would affect operations.A day later, a 1 1/2-year-old black lab mix named Nala was nestling in at her home. Nala is one of 35 dogs and cats that have been placed with Omaha-area families as part of an emergency foster care program."I just felt like, with all the virus stuff going on, it just seemed like a need we could help with," Simeon said. "We're all quarantined anyway. I mean, what a perfect opportunity to do something good."Amid an avalanche of bad news, Simeon's story and thousands like it across the country are prompting smiles as suddenly isolated people rush to care for animals, easing a burden on shelters and providing homes - even if just temporarily - for homeless dogs, cats and other pets.Shelters from California to New York have put out the call for people to temporarily foster pets. Thanks to an overwhelming response from people who suddenly found themselves stuck at home, shelters say they have placed record numbers of dogs, cats and other animals. If past trends hold, many of those who agree to temporarily care for a pet will ultimately decide they want the animal to stay for good."We have a waiting list of 2,000 people wanting to foster," said Dr. Apryl Steele, president and CEO of Dumb Friends League shelter in Denver. It's the largest animal shelter in the Rocky Mountain region, caring for an average of 22,000 animals a year.Steele said the initial push there to foster animals came not from the shelter, but the community."We had people reaching out to us all of a sudden," she said. "People just wanted to do something to help. We realized pretty quickly that we could soon be facing a shutdown of our adoptions and got on board."Shelters have several reasons for pushing to foster out animals, Steele said, including the fear that they might have to stop adopting out animals if people can't visit them or that they might see an influx of people surrendering animals amid economic woes. But the overriding factor, she said, was a concern for workers' health."We need to get to a skeleton staff, stat. We can't do that if the shelter is full," she said.Stephanie Filer, spokeswoman for Animal Rescue League of Iowa also noted that shelters are seeing a drop in donations - a normal occurrence during an economic downturn. The Des Moines-based organization and others have also had to cancel fundraising events because of virus containment efforts.The good news is that when Filer's group put out a call for temporary homes for at least 80 cats in their care, it received some 160 applications within 12 hours. She noted that 60% to 70% of people who foster an animal opt to keep the animal permanently."A crisis brings out the worst in people and the best in people, so we are thrilled to see some exciting things come from this awful situation," she said.Since mid-March, the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has seen 1,600 people volunteer to foster, and the Oregon Humane Society in Portland has seen 1,000 new foster volunteers.The outpouring comes at a critical time because animals produce lots of litters in the spring, said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, president of the San Francisco SPCA."You have shelter leaders around the country who are just looking at this tidal wave that is coming our way," Scarlett said.In Washington, D.C., the Humane Rescue Alliance said more than 1,000 people signed up to foster in a 10-day period this month.One of those was first-time foster volunteer Katie Lee, who is now caring for Calvin, a 2-year-old terrier mix. A move to working from home during the coronavirus scare prompted her decision, because "at least I'm home a lot."Ina Offret, of Anchorage, Alaska, agreed to foster 10-year-old Kelsey after a local shelter called saying it had no room for more animals and was desperate to clear space. Kelsey, a poodle mix, joined Offret's poodle Suzie.If she had been asked a month ago if she was ready to take in another dog, Offret said, she would have politely declined, noting she had had three dogs under her roof until last year, when old age took the other two."I had reached a point in my life when I decided I don't want multiple dogs," Offret said. "Then the coronavirus hit."Offret said she hasn't changed her mind about wanting to be a single-dog family, but said Kelsey has a home until another family can be found."I'm going to keep her until whenever that is," Offret said.

Pet fostering takes off as coronavirus keeps Americans home

With the CDC recommending that all Americans wear a non-surgical mask when in public, we thought this video was an interesting one and important for people to see when making the personal decision whether or to wear a mask in public or not.&nbsp;

Jeremy Howard from the University of San Francisco makes some very interesting points on the impact the simple act of wearing a mask can have.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586006026020.png" alt="Jeremy Howard (Photo: University of San Francisco)" />
 <figcaption>Jeremy Howard (Photo: University of San Francisco)</figcaption>
 </figure>With the CDC recommending that all Americans wear a non-surgical mask when in public, we thought this video was an interesting one and important for people to see when making the personal decision whether or to wear a mask in public or not.&nbsp;Jeremy Howard from the University of San Francisco makes some very interesting points on the impact the simple act of wearing a mask can have.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hVEVve-3QeM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Scientist says we all need to wear a mask, shows how to make one

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Cherry County reports first case of COVID-19, community spread identified in Gage County



OMAHA, Neb (April 3, 2020) – Economists are debating the letters V, U, W and L these days, but Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss, Ph.D., says the only letters that really matter are&nbsp;MD.

Goss is a professor of economics at Creighton’s Heider College of Business where he holds the Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics. He is also director of The Goss Institute for Economic Research in Denver, Colorado, a bipartisan think tank conducting economic research that provides recommendations&nbsp;for&nbsp;public&nbsp;policy.

This is why, in large part, he is the go-to man for Omaha talk radio station KFAB when it comes to the economy. Goss recently told the KFAB morning show that he anticipates a “V-shaped” economic recovery once current COVID-19 fears calm. By this, he meant a quick and powerful bounceback from the bottom to the&nbsp;top.

These days he’s talking more about a “U-shaped” recovery, which means a more protracted slog along the bottom before rising&nbsp;again.

“I’m going off the models the medical people are coming up with,” Goss says, “and as they get more pessimistic, so the economics get more&nbsp;pessimistic.”

He’s not alone. Publications such as the Harvard Business Review and Fortune Magazine have recently published articles speculating whether the eventual economic recovery will be V-shaped, as was the case with all previous epidemics; U-shaped, as Goss now suspects; L-shaped, which means a long and slow slog along the bottom; or even W-shaped, which suggests a second slump if COVID-19 reappears later this&nbsp;year.

Goss said his fellow economists are doing their best to bring their expertise to bear, but that little can be confidently asserted until the medical picture&nbsp;clears.

“It depends on the medical community, because without a medical solution like a vaccine the economy grinds down to a lower level,” he says,” “If it comes back in the fall and we don’t have a vaccine we could be toying with something like the Great&nbsp;Depression.

“If we continue to have a stay-at-home policy, how many restaurants are going to close — all of them, 80 percent of them? Business meetings, hotel stays, are operating in the perhaps 10 to 20 percent range&nbsp;now.”

The $2.2 trillion stimulus package recently signed into law will have an impact, he said, but the federal government cannot long borrow such startling amounts without the backing of economic&nbsp;activity.

“There are those in the political class who believe the government can fill the gap,” he says. “Well, the government can’t fill the gap for very long because ultimately the government gets its money from the economic activity of private citizens, and if that activity grinds down then the government has to grind&nbsp;down.

“The government lives off the private sector, the private sector doesn’t live off government. The support has to come from those of us who are paying taxes and if there are fewer and fewer of us paying taxes, then [continued federal spending] just can’t&nbsp;happen.”

Goss urges, however, that people not get discouraged. The brutal recession of 2008 was eventually overcome, he said, and this one will be overcome too. But the cure will not be provided by&nbsp;economists.

“Things appeared hopeless during the 2008 Great Recession, but we bounced back,” he says. “The difference is that we didn’t have then what we have now — a medical&nbsp;problem.

“So it’s more in the hands of scientists and physicians —the medical people — than&nbsp;economists.”

<a href="https://creighton.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7bbd9bdc8bff514147bd46bd2&amp;id=8573ec2def&amp;e=83c85cefad" target="_blank">Follow Ernie Goss on Twitter&nbsp;</a><a href="https://creighton.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7bbd9bdc8bff514147bd46bd2&amp;id=f0ece7afc3&amp;e=83c85cefad" target="_blank">www.twitter.com/erniegoss</a>

News Release&nbsp;

OMAHA, Neb (April 3, 2020) – Economists are debating the letters V, U, W and L these days, but Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss, Ph.D., says the only letters that really matter are&nbsp;MD.Goss is a professor of economics at Creighton’s Heider College of Business where he holds the Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics. He is also director of The Goss Institute for Economic Research in Denver, Colorado, a bipartisan think tank conducting economic research that provides recommendations&nbsp;for&nbsp;public&nbsp;policy.This is why, in large part, he is the go-to man for Omaha talk radio station KFAB when it comes to the economy. Goss recently told the KFAB morning show that he anticipates a “V-shaped” economic recovery once current COVID-19 fears calm. By this, he meant a quick and powerful bounceback from the bottom to the&nbsp;top.These days he’s talking more about a “U-shaped” recovery, which means a more protracted slog along the bottom before rising&nbsp;again.What made the&nbsp;difference?Medical&nbsp;news.“I’m going off the models the medical people are coming up with,” Goss says, “and as they get more pessimistic, so the economics get more&nbsp;pessimistic.”He’s not alone. Publications such as the Harvard Business Review and Fortune Magazine have recently published articles speculating whether the eventual economic recovery will be V-shaped, as was the case with all previous epidemics; U-shaped, as Goss now suspects; L-shaped, which means a long and slow slog along the bottom; or even W-shaped, which suggests a second slump if COVID-19 reappears later this&nbsp;year.Goss said his fellow economists are doing their best to bring their expertise to bear, but that little can be confidently asserted until the medical picture&nbsp;clears.“It depends on the medical community, because without a medical solution like a vaccine the economy grinds down to a lower level,” he says,” “If it comes back in the fall and we don’t have a vaccine we could be toying with something like the Great&nbsp;Depression.“If we continue to have a stay-at-home policy, how many restaurants are going to close — all of them, 80 percent of them? Business meetings, hotel stays, are operating in the perhaps 10 to 20 percent range&nbsp;now.”The $2.2 trillion stimulus package recently signed into law will have an impact, he said, but the federal government cannot long borrow such startling amounts without the backing of economic&nbsp;activity.“There are those in the political class who believe the government can fill the gap,” he says. “Well, the government can’t fill the gap for very long because ultimately the government gets its money from the economic activity of private citizens, and if that activity grinds down then the government has to grind&nbsp;down.“The government lives off the private sector, the private sector doesn’t live off government. The support has to come from those of us who are paying taxes and if there are fewer and fewer of us paying taxes, then [continued federal spending] just can’t&nbsp;happen.”Goss urges, however, that people not get discouraged. The brutal recession of 2008 was eventually overcome, he said, and this one will be overcome too. But the cure will not be provided by&nbsp;economists.“Things appeared hopeless during the 2008 Great Recession, but we bounced back,” he says. “The difference is that we didn’t have then what we have now — a medical&nbsp;problem.“So it’s more in the hands of scientists and physicians —the medical people — than&nbsp;economists.”<a href="https://creighton.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7bbd9bdc8bff514147bd46bd2&amp;id=8573ec2def&amp;e=83c85cefad" target="_blank">Follow Ernie Goss on Twitter&nbsp;</a><a href="https://creighton.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7bbd9bdc8bff514147bd46bd2&amp;id=f0ece7afc3&amp;e=83c85cefad" target="_blank">www.twitter.com/erniegoss</a>

Creighton Economist: Economy’s future depends on COVID-19 vaccine

SCOTT COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating a second man in connection with alleged criminal threat involving coronavirus in Scott County.

Just before 10:30 a.m. Thursday, police with the assistance of the Scott County Sheriff's Office arrested Dominic Daniel Edson, 19, with Conspiracy to commit terrorism, criminal threat and assault.

This arrest was due to his involvement at the incident on March 31, at Dollar General involving a man telling an 11-year-old girl he was going to give her corona and coughed in her face, according to Police Chief David Post.

Just before 11p.m.&nbsp; Monday, officers arrested Chance Archie Seamans, 31, Scott City for Terrorism and Criminal Threat.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Edson and Seamans remain jailed in Scott County. Edson is being held on a bond of $100,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585969636955.png" alt="Edson -photo Scott Co." />
 <figcaption>Edson -photo Scott Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTT COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating a second man in connection with alleged criminal threat involving coronavirus in Scott County.Just before 10:30 a.m. Thursday, police with the assistance of the Scott County Sheriff's Office arrested Dominic Daniel Edson, 19, with Conspiracy to commit terrorism, criminal threat and assault.This arrest was due to his involvement at the incident on March 31, at Dollar General involving a man telling an 11-year-old girl he was going to give her corona and coughed in her face, according to Police Chief David Post.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585749576027.png" alt="Seamans photo Scott County" />
 <figcaption>Seamans photo Scott County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 11p.m.&nbsp; Monday, officers arrested Chance Archie Seamans, 31, Scott City for Terrorism and Criminal Threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;Edson and Seamans remain jailed in Scott County. Edson is being held on a bond of $100,000.

2nd Kan. man jailed in threat to spread coronavirus to 11-year-old

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced new federal guidelines Friday recommending that Americans wear face coverings when in public to help fight the spread of the new coronavirus. The president immediately said he had no intention of following the advice himself, saying, “I’m choosing not to do it.”

The new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages people, especially in areas hit hard by the spread of the coronavirus, to use rudimentary coverings like T-shirts, bandannas and non-medical masks to cover their faces while outdoors.

The president exempted himself from his administration’s own guidelines, saying he could not envision himself covering his face while sitting in the Oval Office greeting world leaders.

“It’s a recommendation, they recommend it,” Trump said. “I just don’t want to wear one myself.”

The new guidance, announced at a time when states are bracing for critical shortfalls like those that other parts of the world have experienced, raises concern that it could cause a sudden run on masks if Americans turn to private industry to meet the expected surge in demand.

Trump and other administration officials sought to minimize any burden by stressing the recommendations did not amount to requirements and a variety of homemade coverings were perfectly acceptable. Federal officials stressed that surgical masks and N95 respirators should be left for those on the front lines of fighting the spread of the infection.

Friday’s announcement capped an evolution in messaging from the White House that officials acknowledged has at times been confusing.

First lady Melania Trump embodied the ever-changing messaging with a tweet saying, “As the weekend approaches I ask that everyone take social distancing &amp; wearing a mask/face covering seriously.”

The administration has said states should have done more to stockpile medical supplies, but it’s not clear if anyone is prepared for the potential rush that could ensue if people try to obtain medical masks for themselves.

In rural Florida, Okeechobee Discount Drugs has been sold out of face masks for almost two weeks, and “we don’t know where you can find any masks at this point,” said Stacey Nelson, one of the pharmacy’s owners.

“It’s very hard to get these products, but people want them,” Nelson said. “They’ve been getting mixed messages and people aren’t sure if they should be wearing masks in our daily lives. It’s very confusing. Wear them, or don’t wear them?”

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585952762163.png" alt="President Trump answered questions about face masks during Friday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing- White House courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>President Trump answered questions about face masks during Friday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing- White House courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced new federal guidelines Friday recommending that Americans wear face coverings when in public to help fight the spread of the new coronavirus. The president immediately said he had no intention of following the advice himself, saying, “I’m choosing not to do it.”The new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages people, especially in areas hit hard by the spread of the coronavirus, to use rudimentary coverings like T-shirts, bandannas and non-medical masks to cover their faces while outdoors.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As the weekend approaches I ask that everyone take social distancing &amp; wearing a mask/face covering seriously. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> is a virus that can spread to anyone - we can stop this together.&mdash; Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1246192228491558916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The president exempted himself from his administration’s own guidelines, saying he could not envision himself covering his face while sitting in the Oval Office greeting world leaders.“It’s a recommendation, they recommend it,” Trump said. “I just don’t want to wear one myself.”The new guidance, announced at a time when states are bracing for critical shortfalls like those that other parts of the world have experienced, raises concern that it could cause a sudden run on masks if Americans turn to private industry to meet the expected surge in demand.Trump and other administration officials sought to minimize any burden by stressing the recommendations did not amount to requirements and a variety of homemade coverings were perfectly acceptable. Federal officials stressed that surgical masks and N95 respirators should be left for those on the front lines of fighting the spread of the infection.Friday’s announcement capped an evolution in messaging from the White House that officials acknowledged has at times been confusing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584894001370.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First lady Melania Trump embodied the ever-changing messaging with a tweet saying, “As the weekend approaches I ask that everyone take social distancing &amp; wearing a mask/face covering seriously.”The administration has said states should have done more to stockpile medical supplies, but it’s not clear if anyone is prepared for the potential rush that could ensue if people try to obtain medical masks for themselves.In rural Florida, Okeechobee Discount Drugs has been sold out of face masks for almost two weeks, and “we don’t know where you can find any masks at this point,” said Stacey Nelson, one of the pharmacy’s owners.“It’s very hard to get these products, but people want them,” Nelson said. “They’ve been getting mixed messages and people aren’t sure if they should be wearing masks in our daily lives. It’s very confusing. Wear them, or don’t wear them?”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.

First Lady: Take social distancing, wearing a mask seriously

Governor Pete Ricketts announced the State’s ninth COVID-19 related Directed Health Measure (DHM, which adds the remaining counties not already under one.&nbsp; The DHM will be in effect beginning today at 10:00pm and will last until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.

“Now that we have seen community spread across the state, the State is applying directed health measures for all 93 counties until May 11th,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “The next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska.&nbsp; We are asking Nebraskans to further limit social interactions, work, go home, and shop once a week.”

Read the new DHM by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Ftau4u6180lu0kna%2FDHM%25204.3.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833375814&amp;sdata=SEXPlJNE45ZlgDPU%2Bd8tJifVHBefxX0h3kvzq%2Bfq%2BqA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

State-Issued DHM Provisions (Apply Statewide)

Locally Issued DHMs (Apply Only to Particular LHDs)

TIMELINES FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURES

The first DHM, issued on March 18th, applies to Cass, Douglas, and Sarpy counties and is in effect until at least April 30th.

The second DHM, issued on March 25th, applies to Dodge, Lancaster, Saunders, and Washington counties and is in effect until at least May 6th.

The third DHM, issued on March 28th, applies to Butler, Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, Polk, Seward, and York counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.

The fourth DHM, issued on March 29th, applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.

The fifth DHM, issued on March 30th, applies to Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, and Sioux counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The sixth DHM, issued on March 31st, applies to Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, and Webster counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The seventh DHM, also issued on March 31st, applies to Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The eighth DHM, issued on April 1st, applies to Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

FAQS FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURES

Who does the State’s Directed Health Measure apply to?

It applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons, and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts, and athletic events.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM applies to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?

At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to your workforce. &nbsp;Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon arrival. &nbsp;Restaurants will play a key part in feeding people throughout the pandemic.

Do I need to shut down my daycare?

No. &nbsp;DHHS has issued new guidance that daycares need to follow. &nbsp;You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Schools%20and%20Childcare.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

No. &nbsp;The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses, court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs, and other traditional office settings.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM does not apply to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Furthermore, we do not expect these facilities to be impacted by additional limits at this time.

Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?

Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans.

The State’s DHM is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/The%20DHM%20is%20available%20by%20clicking%20here.">clicking here</a>.

Governor Pete Ricketts announced the State’s ninth COVID-19 related Directed Health Measure (DHM, which adds the remaining counties not already under one.&nbsp; The DHM will be in effect beginning today at 10:00pm and will last until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.“Now that we have seen community spread across the state, the State is applying directed health measures for all 93 counties until May 11th,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “The next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska.&nbsp; We are asking Nebraskans to further limit social interactions, work, go home, and shop once a week.”Read the new DHM by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Ftau4u6180lu0kna%2FDHM%25204.3.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833375814&amp;sdata=SEXPlJNE45ZlgDPU%2Bd8tJifVHBefxX0h3kvzq%2Bfq%2BqA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.State-Issued DHM Provisions (Apply Statewide)<ol>
 <li>Imposes an enforceable, 10-person limit on&nbsp;public gatherings. &nbsp;</li><li>Prohibits medical and dental&nbsp;elective surgeries&nbsp;and procedures.</li><li>Requires&nbsp;schools&nbsp;(public, private, and parochial) to operate without students through May 31, 2020.</li><li>Cancels all&nbsp;school-related extracurricular activities&nbsp;through May 31, 2020.</li><li>Requires&nbsp;restaurants and bars&nbsp;to close their dining areas and move to takeout, delivery, and/or curbside service only.&nbsp;</li><li>Requires individuals to&nbsp;home quarantine&nbsp;for at least 14 days if:They have tested positive for COVID-19.They have a fever of 100.4° F or aboveThey have experienced sudden onset of a cough and/or shortness of breathThey reside or have resided with individuals who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 or have the above symptoms.NOTE:&nbsp;The quarantine requirement excludes those individuals with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. &nbsp;These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.Some individuals in home quarantine may not experience the onset of symptoms until the latter half of their 14-day quarantine period.&nbsp; In this case, the length of their quarantine may exceed 14 days.&nbsp; Individuals should remain in quarantine until 7 days have passed since onset of symptoms, symptoms have improved, and they have been fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. &nbsp;NOTE:&nbsp;See the DHM for additional direction on household members living with those in quarantine.</li><li>They have tested positive for COVID-19.</li><li>They have a fever of 100.4° F or above</li><li>They have experienced sudden onset of a cough and/or shortness of breath</li><li>They reside or have resided with individuals who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 or have the above symptoms.NOTE:&nbsp;The quarantine requirement excludes those individuals with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. &nbsp;These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.</li><li>NOTE:&nbsp;The quarantine requirement excludes those individuals with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. &nbsp;These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.</li><li>Some individuals in home quarantine may not experience the onset of symptoms until the latter half of their 14-day quarantine period.&nbsp; In this case, the length of their quarantine may exceed 14 days.&nbsp; Individuals should remain in quarantine until 7 days have passed since onset of symptoms, symptoms have improved, and they have been fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. &nbsp;NOTE:&nbsp;See the DHM for additional direction on household members living with those in quarantine.</li><li>NOTE:&nbsp;See the DHM for additional direction on household members living with those in quarantine.</li><li>The DHM’s limitation on public gatherings does not apply to:Retail or grocery stores where people should maintain six feet of distance from one another.Daycares that may be operated at a school per the Governor’s executive order regarding childcare, which you can access by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833375814&amp;sdata=Qxc2wGPkEkQ%2F8tH121kaOSHycLlGe0rjJVzAKwz3y38%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Other locations detailed in the DHM.</li><li>Retail or grocery stores where people should maintain six feet of distance from one another.</li><li>Daycares that may be operated at a school per the Governor’s executive order regarding childcare, which you can access by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833375814&amp;sdata=Qxc2wGPkEkQ%2F8tH121kaOSHycLlGe0rjJVzAKwz3y38%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</li><li>Other locations detailed in the DHM.</li>
 </ol>Locally Issued DHMs (Apply Only to Particular LHDs)<ol>
 <li>In addition to the State-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments (LHDs) have issued additional restrictions.&nbsp;</li><li>For example, the Central District, Douglas, Lancaster, Sarpy/Cass, and Two Rivers LHDs have closed salons, tattoo parlors, and other similar businesses in their jurisdictions for the time being.&nbsp;</li><li>Locally issued Directed Health Measures can be found at the links below:<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-CountyDHM-CentralDistrictHealthDepartment.pdf" target="_blank">Central District Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2Fimages%2FCOVID-19%2F2020_03_ORDER_AMENDED_3-20-2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833385774&amp;sdata=SC3E0hLdQkA9c1N7%2BjMd%2FdE8YiemxaAmHcxDMJHRe0s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Douglas County Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf" target="_blank">Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fdoc%2FSarpy%2520Cass%2520DHM%2520March%252031%252C%25202020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833385774&amp;sdata=rNn3JioQE3IupM8PWTqAfWpOh%2FZruCVvDIvHGGgi2uM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Sarpy/Cass Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.trphd.org%2Ffile_download%2Finline%2F7e802883-735b-47b4-8e2d-08d062855d41&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833395729&amp;sdata=iDa4sgS9rXGSFNGvlfKC3mmA1seTfeyfDXGJpRZt7hU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Two Rivers Public Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-CountyDHM-CentralDistrictHealthDepartment.pdf" target="_blank">Central District Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2Fimages%2FCOVID-19%2F2020_03_ORDER_AMENDED_3-20-2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833385774&amp;sdata=SC3E0hLdQkA9c1N7%2BjMd%2FdE8YiemxaAmHcxDMJHRe0s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Douglas County Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf" target="_blank">Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fdoc%2FSarpy%2520Cass%2520DHM%2520March%252031%252C%25202020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833385774&amp;sdata=rNn3JioQE3IupM8PWTqAfWpOh%2FZruCVvDIvHGGgi2uM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Sarpy/Cass Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.trphd.org%2Ffile_download%2Finline%2F7e802883-735b-47b4-8e2d-08d062855d41&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C521fa382db55403a476e08d7d82f07e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215568833395729&amp;sdata=iDa4sgS9rXGSFNGvlfKC3mmA1seTfeyfDXGJpRZt7hU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Two Rivers Public Health Department – Local DHM</a></li>
 </ol>TIMELINES FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURESThe first DHM, issued on March 18th, applies to Cass, Douglas, and Sarpy counties and is in effect until at least April 30th.The second DHM, issued on March 25th, applies to Dodge, Lancaster, Saunders, and Washington counties and is in effect until at least May 6th.The third DHM, issued on March 28th, applies to Butler, Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, Polk, Seward, and York counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.The fourth DHM, issued on March 29th, applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.The fifth DHM, issued on March 30th, applies to Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, and Sioux counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The sixth DHM, issued on March 31st, applies to Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, and Webster counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The seventh DHM, also issued on March 31st, applies to Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The eighth DHM, issued on April 1st, applies to Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.FAQS FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURESWho does the State’s Directed Health Measure apply to?It applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons, and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts, and athletic events.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM applies to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to your workforce. &nbsp;Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon arrival. &nbsp;Restaurants will play a key part in feeding people throughout the pandemic.Do I need to shut down my daycare?No. &nbsp;DHHS has issued new guidance that daycares need to follow. &nbsp;You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Schools%20and%20Childcare.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Do I need to shut down my office?No. &nbsp;The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses, court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs, and other traditional office settings.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM does not apply to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Furthermore, we do not expect these facilities to be impacted by additional limits at this time.Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans.The State’s DHM is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/The%20DHM%20is%20available%20by%20clicking%20here.">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces directed health measure for remaining counties, asks Nebraskans to further limit social interactions

The outbreak of the coronavirus has dealt a shock to the global economy with unprecedented speed. Following are developments on Friday related to the global economy, the work place and the spread of the virus.

CROWD CONTROL: Walmart still wants customers, just fewer of them at a time. The nation’s largest retailer said it will now allow no more than five customers for each 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly about 20% of the average store’s capacity. To oversee the restriction, workers will mark a queue at a single-entry door, and direct arriving customers there, where they’ll be admitted one by one. Walmart joins Target and others in trying to limit the number of customers in the store to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Hobby Lobby announced in a new release Friday they will, after careful consideration, close the remainder of its stores, and furlough nearly all store employees and a large portion of corporate and distribution employees, effective Friday, April 3rd, at 8:00 p.m. The stores will remain closed until further notice.

AIRLINES: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest and JetBlue said they applied Friday for their share of $25 billion in federal grants designed to cover airline payrolls for the next six months. None disclosed the amount they are seeking.

The grant money was part of $2.2 trillion relief bill approved last week. Delta’s CEO says his airline is burning more than $60 million cash per day, and United’s president puts it at $100 million a day. Airline revenue has cratered during the coronavirus outbreak. Delta carried 38,000 passengers last Saturday. On a normal Saturday in late March it flies 600,000.

The number of travelers screened Thursday at airports nationwide was 124,000, a 95% drop from the same day last year.

And the global airline industry passed a milestone Friday: Half of all passenger jets are now grounded as airlines cut flights sharply. Aviation-data firm Cirium said that with another 530 parked since Thursday, there are now 12,635 jets in service and 13,655 grounded. The number of commercial flights is down 75%, according to tracking service

The Transportation Department, meanwhile, said it is getting more complaints from consumers who say airlines are giving travel vouchers instead of refunds after canceling flights. The department says vouchers aren’t easy to use because airlines are cutting so many flights due to the coronavirus outbreak. Airlines can offer vouchers — and usually do, even in normal times — but the Transportation Department said it is reminding carriers of a longstanding requirement to issue prompt refunds to passengers who want them.

COSTS MOUNT: The pandemic will cost the global economy as much as $4.1 trillion, or nearly 5% of all economic activity, according to new estimates from the Asian Development Bank.

The head of the International Monetary Fund said the recession sparked by the coronavirus pandemic is “way worse” than the 2008 global recession. At a press briefing in Geneva on Friday, IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva described the situation as “a crisis like no other.”

SMALL BUSINESS: More than $875 million in loan applications had been processed through the new small business loan program, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said via&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/stevenmnuchin1/status/1246100166026936322" target="_blank">Twitter,&nbsp;</a>“almost all from community banks!” Mnuchin said in that tweet that big banks were also taking applications and would be submitting them shortly. However, there were signs that the program is off to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/edf614822fa34d70520b35e000f3b3ce">rough start</a>.

HEAVY INDUSTRY: Toyota is halting production at five of its 18 plants in Japan as sales evaporate. The stoppage will last three days for most of the plants, but one plant will close until mid-April.

The affected plants produce vehicles for export, including Lexus luxury models and the Prius hybrid. Other Japanese automakers, such as Honda Motor Co., have also suspended production.

The U.S. auto industry is completely shut down.

CORONA SIDELINED BY CORONAVIRUS: The coronavirus pandemic is even closing the taps on Corona beer — along with most other brews across Mexico.

Major breweries announced Friday they are suspending operations in response to government orders for non-essential businesses to keep their workers at home.

Grupo Modelo, maker of Corona among other popular brands, said it will suspend its operations at plants around the country by Sunday. The company pointed out in a statement that thousands of farmers depend on it buying their grain. It said it has a plan that would allow it to continue production with 75% of its workforce at home if the government decides to allow it to continue operating.

Some Mexican states have also imposed dry laws that restrict the sale of alcohol during the health crisis.

MARKETS: U.S. stocks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/62144c864d3f7c3ef08f270e0b809c2d">fell&nbsp;</a>Friday, leaving the S&amp;P 500 down 26.5% since its record set in February.

The losses came after the government reported that U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/996e9504177861cb29dd77dadec5d873">employers cut 701,000 jobs</a>&nbsp;in March, the monthly decline in nearly a decade. Because of the timing of the spread of COVID-19, the March report did not capture the extend of the damage. Economists are warning policy makers to brace for worse.

ROUNDING IT OUT: The U.S. typically has a unique response to crisis, and the coronavirus is no different.

Firearm sales spiked 85% last month compared with the March last year, according an analysis of the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System by Small Arms Analytics and Forecasting.

The laws of supply and demand also apply to arming up, of course, and the cost of adding guns the the shopping list will cost you.

“Much of the industry’s inventory will have been depleted, so that we anticipate that weapons and ammunition prices increased as well,” said Jurgen Brauer, SAAF’s chief economist.

The outbreak of the coronavirus has dealt a shock to the global economy with unprecedented speed. Following are developments on Friday related to the global economy, the work place and the spread of the virus.CROWD CONTROL: Walmart still wants customers, just fewer of them at a time. The nation’s largest retailer said it will now allow no more than five customers for each 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly about 20% of the average store’s capacity. To oversee the restriction, workers will mark a queue at a single-entry door, and direct arriving customers there, where they’ll be admitted one by one. Walmart joins Target and others in trying to limit the number of customers in the store to curb the spread of the coronavirus.Hobby Lobby announced in a new release Friday they will, after careful consideration, close the remainder of its stores, and furlough nearly all store employees and a large portion of corporate and distribution employees, effective Friday, April 3rd, at 8:00 p.m. The stores will remain closed until further notice.AIRLINES: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest and JetBlue said they applied Friday for their share of $25 billion in federal grants designed to cover airline payrolls for the next six months. None disclosed the amount they are seeking.The grant money was part of $2.2 trillion relief bill approved last week. Delta’s CEO says his airline is burning more than $60 million cash per day, and United’s president puts it at $100 million a day. Airline revenue has cratered during the coronavirus outbreak. Delta carried 38,000 passengers last Saturday. On a normal Saturday in late March it flies 600,000.The number of travelers screened Thursday at airports nationwide was 124,000, a 95% drop from the same day last year.And the global airline industry passed a milestone Friday: Half of all passenger jets are now grounded as airlines cut flights sharply. Aviation-data firm Cirium said that with another 530 parked since Thursday, there are now 12,635 jets in service and 13,655 grounded. The number of commercial flights is down 75%, according to tracking serviceThe Transportation Department, meanwhile, said it is getting more complaints from consumers who say airlines are giving travel vouchers instead of refunds after canceling flights. The department says vouchers aren’t easy to use because airlines are cutting so many flights due to the coronavirus outbreak. Airlines can offer vouchers — and usually do, even in normal times — but the Transportation Department said it is reminding carriers of a longstanding requirement to issue prompt refunds to passengers who want them.COSTS MOUNT: The pandemic will cost the global economy as much as $4.1 trillion, or nearly 5% of all economic activity, according to new estimates from the Asian Development Bank.The head of the International Monetary Fund said the recession sparked by the coronavirus pandemic is “way worse” than the 2008 global recession. At a press briefing in Geneva on Friday, IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva described the situation as “a crisis like no other.”SMALL BUSINESS: More than $875 million in loan applications had been processed through the new small business loan program, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said via&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/stevenmnuchin1/status/1246100166026936322" target="_blank">Twitter,&nbsp;</a>“almost all from community banks!” Mnuchin said in that tweet that big banks were also taking applications and would be submitting them shortly. However, there were signs that the program is off to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/edf614822fa34d70520b35e000f3b3ce">rough start</a>.HEAVY INDUSTRY: Toyota is halting production at five of its 18 plants in Japan as sales evaporate. The stoppage will last three days for most of the plants, but one plant will close until mid-April.The affected plants produce vehicles for export, including Lexus luxury models and the Prius hybrid. Other Japanese automakers, such as Honda Motor Co., have also suspended production.The U.S. auto industry is completely shut down.CORONA SIDELINED BY CORONAVIRUS: The coronavirus pandemic is even closing the taps on Corona beer — along with most other brews across Mexico.Major breweries announced Friday they are suspending operations in response to government orders for non-essential businesses to keep their workers at home.Grupo Modelo, maker of Corona among other popular brands, said it will suspend its operations at plants around the country by Sunday. The company pointed out in a statement that thousands of farmers depend on it buying their grain. It said it has a plan that would allow it to continue production with 75% of its workforce at home if the government decides to allow it to continue operating.Some Mexican states have also imposed dry laws that restrict the sale of alcohol during the health crisis.MARKETS: U.S. stocks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/62144c864d3f7c3ef08f270e0b809c2d">fell&nbsp;</a>Friday, leaving the S&amp;P 500 down 26.5% since its record set in February.The losses came after the government reported that U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/996e9504177861cb29dd77dadec5d873">employers cut 701,000 jobs</a>&nbsp;in March, the monthly decline in nearly a decade. Because of the timing of the spread of COVID-19, the March report did not capture the extend of the damage. Economists are warning policy makers to brace for worse.ROUNDING IT OUT: The U.S. typically has a unique response to crisis, and the coronavirus is no different.Firearm sales spiked 85% last month compared with the March last year, according an analysis of the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System by Small Arms Analytics and Forecasting.The laws of supply and demand also apply to arming up, of course, and the cost of adding guns the the shopping list will cost you.“Much of the industry’s inventory will have been depleted, so that we anticipate that weapons and ammunition prices increased as well,” said Jurgen Brauer, SAAF’s chief economist.Data on prices will be released soon.

Virus crowd control: Walmart limits store access

LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts reinforced the importance of social distancing during his daily coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic response briefing.&nbsp; Dr. James Lawler, infectious diseases expert and director of the Global Center for Health Security at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC, joined the Governor to discuss Nebraska’s social distancing strategy.

The Governor also highlighted federal programs available to Nebraska businesses as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). &nbsp;Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Tony Goins provided additional details on federal resources available to businesses.&nbsp; Leon Milobar, District Director for the Nebraska District Office of the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA, also spoke about SBA loans available to businesses affected by the pandemic.

With Passover and Easter approaching, Gov. Ricketts also shared guidance for faith-based communities as they practice social distancing and support public health efforts.

Director Goins: CARES Act Programs for Small Businesses

Director Milobar: SBA Loans for Businesses

Gov. Ricketts: Guidance for Faith-Based Communities

Husker basketball coach Fred Hoiberg is urging Nebraskans to follow social distancing guidelines, practice good hygiene, and support public health directives. &nbsp;View his public announcement by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FHuskerHoops%2Fstatus%2F1245823036059799552%3Fs%3D20&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378198322&amp;sdata=C5Es0mttaSaewS5xAao6NdQSUN9%2FdPvwhscEWgMrWx4%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%2Fe5bt14x0p1cnhi2%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.03.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378198322&amp;sdata=ZNjbrCNBqEVgx05WsT%2BFrShzMZP3E1KM8i9kRDznlQk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585959829983.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts reviews Google data on social mobility in Nebraska at today’s press briefing. (Photo: Governor's Office)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts reviews Google data on social mobility in Nebraska at today’s press briefing. (Photo: Governor's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts reinforced the importance of social distancing during his daily coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic response briefing.&nbsp; Dr. James Lawler, infectious diseases expert and director of the Global Center for Health Security at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC, joined the Governor to discuss Nebraska’s social distancing strategy.The Governor also highlighted federal programs available to Nebraska businesses as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). &nbsp;Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Tony Goins provided additional details on federal resources available to businesses.&nbsp; Leon Milobar, District Director for the Nebraska District Office of the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA, also spoke about SBA loans available to businesses affected by the pandemic.With Passover and Easter approaching, Gov. Ricketts also shared guidance for faith-based communities as they practice social distancing and support public health efforts.Gov. Ricketts: Social Distancing<ol>
 <li>Nebraskans need to further limit social interactions.&nbsp; They should work, go home, and shop once a week.</li><li>People should not only follow the 10-person rule, but also minimize any other social interactions.</li><li>Google has released data on social mobility in Nebraska.There has been a 34% decline in visits to retailers and restaurants, an 18% decline in visits to transit stations, and a 24% decrease in hours spent in the workplace.Meanwhile, there has been an 8% increase in hours spent in residential areas.&nbsp; This indicates that people are spending more time at home.There has been a 109% increase in visits to parks.Walking outside is safe, but people must be socially distanced.People can walk their animal or get fresh air as long as they maintain social distancing.People should not play on playgrounds or participate in group sports at a park.&nbsp;</li><li>There has been a 34% decline in visits to retailers and restaurants, an 18% decline in visits to transit stations, and a 24% decrease in hours spent in the workplace.</li><li>Meanwhile, there has been an 8% increase in hours spent in residential areas.&nbsp; This indicates that people are spending more time at home.</li><li>There has been a 109% increase in visits to parks.Walking outside is safe, but people must be socially distanced.People can walk their animal or get fresh air as long as they maintain social distancing.People should not play on playgrounds or participate in group sports at a park.&nbsp;</li><li>Walking outside is safe, but people must be socially distanced.</li><li>People can walk their animal or get fresh air as long as they maintain social distancing.</li><li>People should not play on playgrounds or participate in group sports at a park.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Dr. Lawler: Social Distancing<ol>
 <li>We’re still very early in this unprecedented event.&nbsp; If the pandemic were a baseball game, we’d only be in the second inning.</li><li>We’re going to see more COVID-19 cases, and, unfortunately, more fatalities in the weeks ahead.</li><li>While we’re increasing our testing capacity, we need more information to understand how well our interventions have been working.</li><li>The goal is to preserve the state’s health system so that Nebraskans can get care—whether for COVID-19 or other medical needs.</li><li>The private sector, academic community, and government have shown inspiring partnership in their work together to counteract the virus.</li>
 </ol>Director Goins: CARES Act Programs for Small Businesses<ol>
 <li>At the state and federal level, leaders are working hard to provide relief to businesses—whether big, small, or self-employed.</li><li>Payroll Tax DefermentDelays payment of employer payroll taxes (Social Security) between now and Jan. 1, 2021.</li><li>Delays payment of employer payroll taxes (Social Security) between now and Jan. 1, 2021.</li><li>Employee Retention CreditThe credit is available to employers fully or partially shut down by government order due to the pandemic.It’s also available to businesses that have seen a 50% drop, year-over-year, in quarterly gross receipts.It’s a refundable tax credit of 50% of the qualifying wages—including health plan expenses—paid by the employer up to $10,000 per teammate.</li><li>The credit is available to employers fully or partially shut down by government order due to the pandemic.</li><li>It’s also available to businesses that have seen a 50% drop, year-over-year, in quarterly gross receipts.</li><li>It’s a refundable tax credit of 50% of the qualifying wages—including health plan expenses—paid by the employer up to $10,000 per teammate.</li><li>Paycheck Protection LoansCan be taken out in the amount equivalent to two months of a business’ average payroll (up to $10 million).The loan may be fully forgiven (converted into a grant) if it’s used to pay for…Payroll costsRent or mortgage interestUtilitiesLoan payments will be deferred six months.The loan has a fixed rate of 1.0%, and a term of 2 years.There’s no requirement to look for credit elsewhere before applying for Paycheck Protection Program loans.There’s also no need to put up collateral or make personal guarantees for the loans.Businesses are encouraged to contact their current bank as the first step to apply.Small businesses and sole proprietors can begin applying today. &nbsp;Independent contractors and self-employed individuals can apply beginning on April 10.</li><li>Can be taken out in the amount equivalent to two months of a business’ average payroll (up to $10 million).</li><li>The loan may be fully forgiven (converted into a grant) if it’s used to pay for…Payroll costsRent or mortgage interestUtilities</li><li>Payroll costs</li><li>Rent or mortgage interest</li><li>Utilities</li><li>Loan payments will be deferred six months.</li><li>The loan has a fixed rate of 1.0%, and a term of 2 years.</li><li>There’s no requirement to look for credit elsewhere before applying for Paycheck Protection Program loans.</li><li>There’s also no need to put up collateral or make personal guarantees for the loans.</li><li>Businesses are encouraged to contact their current bank as the first step to apply.</li><li>Small businesses and sole proprietors can begin applying today. &nbsp;Independent contractors and self-employed individuals can apply beginning on April 10.</li><li>Economic Injury Disaster LoansAvailable to small businesses and non-profits (including faith-based) with fewer than 500 employees.Provides up to $2 million in a working capital loan.Has long-term repayment of up to 30 years.Offers a low interest rate of 3.75% (2.75% non-profits).Defers payments up to one year.As a result of the CARES Act, businesses can request an emergency grant of $10,000 when applying for the loan.This grant may be available even if the loan application is declined.The SBA is working to provide the grant within 3 days of receiving applications.The grant can be used to meet payroll, pay for sick leave, pay rent, and more.The emergency grant does not need to be repaid.Businesses can apply through&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378188366&amp;sdata=mhdGhK0GwEhaT%2F4y0JqwKt9WE29sxVXLsk18V9YnC9g%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.sba.gov</a>.</li><li>Available to small businesses and non-profits (including faith-based) with fewer than 500 employees.</li><li>Provides up to $2 million in a working capital loan.</li><li>Has long-term repayment of up to 30 years.</li><li>Offers a low interest rate of 3.75% (2.75% non-profits).</li><li>Defers payments up to one year.</li><li>As a result of the CARES Act, businesses can request an emergency grant of $10,000 when applying for the loan.</li><li>This grant may be available even if the loan application is declined.</li><li>The SBA is working to provide the grant within 3 days of receiving applications.</li><li>The grant can be used to meet payroll, pay for sick leave, pay rent, and more.</li><li>The emergency grant does not need to be repaid.</li><li>Businesses can apply through&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378188366&amp;sdata=mhdGhK0GwEhaT%2F4y0JqwKt9WE29sxVXLsk18V9YnC9g%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.sba.gov</a>.</li>
 </ol>Director Milobar: SBA Loans for Businesses<ol>
 <li>Nebraska has 46,000 small businesses; 36,000 of these have 1-20 workers.</li><li>Community lenders are helping to spread the word about SBA loan programs to these businesses.</li><li>Ag producers are eligible to participate in SBA’s loan programs.</li><li>If a business has taken out a disaster loan associated with a previous incident (like the floods of 2019, it is still eligible to apply for a loan for this disaster.</li><li>Businesses cannot take out both an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and a Paycheck Protection Program Loan.</li><li>While small businesses are typically defined as those with less than 500 teammates; restaurants and hotel franchises may be eligible for SBA loans.</li><li>Businesses should visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378188366&amp;sdata=mhdGhK0GwEhaT%2F4y0JqwKt9WE29sxVXLsk18V9YnC9g%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.sba.gov</a>&nbsp;for info on SBA loans.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: Guidance for Faith-Based Communities<ol>
 <li>The State has released new guidance today allowing churches to host drive-in services.</li><li>Nothing should be handed out to car passengers—or transferred between vehicles—before, during, or after the service.For example, do not circulate an offering plate or the Eucharist or communion.Email out your program, bulletin, and song lyrics to participants ahead of time.</li><li>For example, do not circulate an offering plate or the Eucharist or communion.</li><li>Email out your program, bulletin, and song lyrics to participants ahead of time.</li><li>The guidance is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Faith-Based-Communities-FAQ.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: Other COVID-19 Topics<ol>
 <li>1135 WaiverYesterday afternoon, the State received approval of its 1135 Waiver application for the Medicaid program. &nbsp;The application was submitted to the federal government as part of our response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.Section 1135 is part of the Social Security Act that allows the federal government to waive certain federal laws in the event of an emergency to ensure health care services are able to continue throughout the emergency.FAQ on the 1135 waiver can be found by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Section%201135%20Waiver%20Application%20FAQs.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</li><li>Yesterday afternoon, the State received approval of its 1135 Waiver application for the Medicaid program. &nbsp;The application was submitted to the federal government as part of our response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.</li><li>Section 1135 is part of the Social Security Act that allows the federal government to waive certain federal laws in the event of an emergency to ensure health care services are able to continue throughout the emergency.</li><li>FAQ on the 1135 waiver can be found by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Section%201135%20Waiver%20Application%20FAQs.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</li><li>Mental HealthThe Surgeon General is reminding everyone to take care of their mental health during the pandemic.If you need help, please reach out to family and friends.If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255, or the Nebraska Family Helpline at (800) 866-8660.</li><li>The Surgeon General is reminding everyone to take care of their mental health during the pandemic.</li><li>If you need help, please reach out to family and friends.If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255, or the Nebraska Family Helpline at (800) 866-8660.</li><li>If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255, or the Nebraska Family Helpline at (800) 866-8660.</li>
 </ol>Husker basketball coach Fred Hoiberg is urging Nebraskans to follow social distancing guidelines, practice good hygiene, and support public health directives. &nbsp;View his public announcement by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FHuskerHoops%2Fstatus%2F1245823036059799552%3Fs%3D20&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378198322&amp;sdata=C5Es0mttaSaewS5xAao6NdQSUN9%2FdPvwhscEWgMrWx4%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%2Fe5bt14x0p1cnhi2%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.03.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8c1d90674e344e07070008d7d82be556%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215555378198322&amp;sdata=ZNjbrCNBqEVgx05WsT%2BFrShzMZP3E1KM8i9kRDznlQk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Governor Ricketts reiterates importance of social distancing

As the country continues efforts to manage and mitigate the devastating health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 virus, Hobby Lobby will, after careful consideration, close the remainder of its stores, and furlough nearly all store employees and a large portion of corporate and distribution employees, effective Friday, April 3rd, at 8:00 p.m. The stores will remain closed until further notice.

In order to allow our furloughed employees to take full advantage of the Pandemic Unemployment Compensation and Recovery Rebates provided to eligible employees by the federal government, we are ending emergency leave pay and suspending use of Company provided paid time off benefits (PPTO and Vacation) in accordance with the requirements outlined in the CARES Act (subject to State law requirements). However, we will maintain medical, dental, life, and long-term disability benefits for employees while furloughed through at least May 1, 2020, and will pay the cost of employee premiums for these benefits on behalf of employees while furloughed without pay.&nbsp;We encourage furloughed employees to file their claims with their State’s unemployment commissions as soon as possible.&nbsp;Upon return, employees will retain their original dates of hire and any accrued PPTO and Vacation. Our sincere gratitude goes out to our dedicated employees at this difficult time, and we look forward to the day when we can welcome them back, once we are able to reopen.

We know our customers relied on us to provide essential products, including materials to make personal protective equipment, such as face masks, educational supplies for the countless parents who are now educating their children from home, and the thousands of small arts and crafts businesses who rely on us for supplies to make their products. Over the past several weeks, we implemented several best practices to provide a safer shopping environment, including the installation of physical barriers between customers and cashiers, enhanced cleaning, and the enforcement of social distancing measures. We are prepared to reopen our stores in a responsible way when the current situation improves, and look forward to welcoming our valued customers back to our stores. Until then, we pray for those affected by the virus, protection for the health care professionals caring for the sick, economic security for all impacted businesses and employees, and wisdom for our leaders.

News ReleaseAs the country continues efforts to manage and mitigate the devastating health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 virus, Hobby Lobby will, after careful consideration, close the remainder of its stores, and furlough nearly all store employees and a large portion of corporate and distribution employees, effective Friday, April 3rd, at 8:00 p.m. The stores will remain closed until further notice.In order to allow our furloughed employees to take full advantage of the Pandemic Unemployment Compensation and Recovery Rebates provided to eligible employees by the federal government, we are ending emergency leave pay and suspending use of Company provided paid time off benefits (PPTO and Vacation) in accordance with the requirements outlined in the CARES Act (subject to State law requirements). However, we will maintain medical, dental, life, and long-term disability benefits for employees while furloughed through at least May 1, 2020, and will pay the cost of employee premiums for these benefits on behalf of employees while furloughed without pay.&nbsp;We encourage furloughed employees to file their claims with their State’s unemployment commissions as soon as possible.&nbsp;Upon return, employees will retain their original dates of hire and any accrued PPTO and Vacation. Our sincere gratitude goes out to our dedicated employees at this difficult time, and we look forward to the day when we can welcome them back, once we are able to reopen.We know our customers relied on us to provide essential products, including materials to make personal protective equipment, such as face masks, educational supplies for the countless parents who are now educating their children from home, and the thousands of small arts and crafts businesses who rely on us for supplies to make their products. Over the past several weeks, we implemented several best practices to provide a safer shopping environment, including the installation of physical barriers between customers and cashiers, enhanced cleaning, and the enforcement of social distancing measures. We are prepared to reopen our stores in a responsible way when the current situation improves, and look forward to welcoming our valued customers back to our stores. Until then, we pray for those affected by the virus, protection for the health care professionals caring for the sick, economic security for all impacted businesses and employees, and wisdom for our leaders.God Bless,Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby temporarily closes all stores, furloughs nearly all employees

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Advocates are urging Kansas officials to release and safeguard inmates after the state prison system reported its first COVID-19 cases in three staff members and at least one jail worker in the state’s largest city was sickened.

At the Sedgwick County Jail, where officials confirmed Thursday that a detention deputy had tested positive, about 200 inmates have been released since mid-March over concerns about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>. Positive cases statewide rose Thursday nearly 15% in a single day, to 552, with 13 deaths since early March.

Sheriff Jeff Easter said the deputy who tested positive is in isolation at home, and family members are quarantined at home. Coworkers who were around the deputy are still reporting to work. A second employee has also been sent home and will be tested after experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Hospital staff said the deputy was presumptive positive Tuesday night, Easter said.

So far state officials have no plans to release prisoners ahead of scheduled release dates since corrections officials announced Tuesday that three staff members at the Lansing Correctional Facility had tested positive. Gov. Laura Kelly has said her office is “at the exploratory phase.”

Department of Corrections spokeswoman Rebecca Witte said in an email to The Kansas City Star that the agency already has closed facilities to visitors, limited transfers between facilities and added screening processes. Beginning Friday, she said, the office will isolate inmates upon intake at the Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility.

For most people, the 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 illness, including pneumonia.

Among those urging further changes are the Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Kansas Board of Indigents Defense Services, the District of Kansas Federal Public Defenders office and the Midwest Innocence Project.

They are calling in a letter for Kansas to release medically fragile and older adults at high risk for COVID-19 complications, the release of anyone with six months or fewer left on their sentences and the release of anyone imprisoned for technical violations of probation or parole.

This release, the letter said, would make social distancing easier for those remaining in the jail. Additionally, it would protect the estimated 39-43% of inmates who have underlying health conditions.

The letter warned that failure to act would result in “dire” consequences.

“I’m sure the Department of Corrections and the governor are trying really hard, you can see it,” said Kansas Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers Legislative Chair Jennifer Roth. “But you have got to have fewer people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582652138914.png" alt="Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter" />
 <figcaption>Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Advocates are urging Kansas officials to release and safeguard inmates after the state prison system reported its first COVID-19 cases in three staff members and at least one jail worker in the state’s largest city was sickened.At the Sedgwick County Jail, where officials confirmed Thursday that a detention deputy had tested positive, about 200 inmates have been released since mid-March over concerns about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>. Positive cases statewide rose Thursday nearly 15% in a single day, to 552, with 13 deaths since early March.Sheriff Jeff Easter said the deputy who tested positive is in isolation at home, and family members are quarantined at home. Coworkers who were around the deputy are still reporting to work. A second employee has also been sent home and will be tested after experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Hospital staff said the deputy was presumptive positive Tuesday night, Easter said.So far state officials have no plans to release prisoners ahead of scheduled release dates since corrections officials announced Tuesday that three staff members at the Lansing Correctional Facility had tested positive. Gov. Laura Kelly has said her office is “at the exploratory phase.”Department of Corrections spokeswoman Rebecca Witte said in an email to The Kansas City Star that the agency already has closed facilities to visitors, limited transfers between facilities and added screening processes. Beginning Friday, she said, the office will isolate inmates upon intake at the Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility.For most people, the 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 illness, including pneumonia.Among those urging further changes are the Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Kansas Board of Indigents Defense Services, the District of Kansas Federal Public Defenders office and the Midwest Innocence Project.They are calling in a letter for Kansas to release medically fragile and older adults at high risk for COVID-19 complications, the release of anyone with six months or fewer left on their sentences and the release of anyone imprisoned for technical violations of probation or parole.This release, the letter said, would make social distancing easier for those remaining in the jail. Additionally, it would protect the estimated 39-43% of inmates who have underlying health conditions.The letter warned that failure to act would result in “dire” consequences.“I’m sure the Department of Corrections and the governor are trying really hard, you can see it,” said Kansas Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers Legislative Chair Jennifer Roth. “But you have got to have fewer people.”

Advocates urge change as virus sickens Kan. jail, prison workers

According to the CDC&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcases-updates%2Fcases-in-us.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C752c37802cd8499917c208d7d819d8e2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637215477832984850&amp;sdata=PzMmMrAtRq9VRKgTJI%2F%2B%2BshVI2kVjXPwnAAJ8gyXIrU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">website</a>, there are&nbsp;232,279&nbsp;COVID-19 cases in the United States and&nbsp;5,443&nbsp;deaths (Updated 4/1/2020). Cases have been reported in all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These statistics include both confirmed and presumptive positive cases of COVID-19.

Gov. Pete Ricketts’ Office&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://governor.nebraska.gov/</a>

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At his daily news conference, Gov. Ricketts reminded people to continue to practice physical distancing and to follow directed health measures imposed in 56 counties in Nebraska.

An alphabetical list of all counties under a DHM is available online&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink1" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;If you have concerns about a directed health measure contact your local health department or the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp; At Thursday night’s televised town hall aired on NET, Gov. Ricketts addressed why he has not issued a statewide stay-at-home measure. With advice from medical experts, Ricketts called for a regional approach using the state’s public health regions to determine when more restrictive measures should be implemented.&nbsp;

“What we are trying to do to time the directed healthcare measure to be able to get the maximum impact out of it. If you go too early, people will get tired of it doing it and they can start breaking the ban just when you need them to actually do it the most. If you do it too late, you will miss the benefit of doing it at all. We are doing a plan that right’s for Nebraska. We have to be in this for the long haul.”

Coronavirus Update