NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte Fire Department is continuing to provide the city with emergency services amid the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.

Officials say they are, "continuing to provide all emergency services that our citizens expect and deserve."

The fire department is asking residents to check with their primary care physician regarding flu-like symptoms and the need for ambulance transport prior to calling 911.

Firefighters and paramedics are also taking additional steps based on caller information to, "provide the greatest level of protection for responders and our patients."

Officials urge residents not to hesitate to call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte Fire Department is continuing to provide the city with emergency services amid the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.Officials say they are, "continuing to provide all emergency services that our citizens expect and deserve."The fire department is asking residents to check with their primary care physician regarding flu-like symptoms and the need for ambulance transport prior to calling 911.Firefighters and paramedics are also taking additional steps based on caller information to, "provide the greatest level of protection for responders and our patients."Officials urge residents not to hesitate to call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency.

North Platte Fire Dept. continues to serve during virus outbreak

NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon said Tuesday that it will only accept shipments of cleaning equipment, medical supplies and household goods from suppliers at its warehouses for the next three weeks to fill surging demand. 

The online retailer has been sold out of items like disinfecting wipes and toilet paper as the new coronavirus spreads in the U.S. Amazon said the restrictions will last until April 5. 

It applies to large vendors and third-party sellers who list items to sell on Amazon.com directly. 

The announcement Tuesday is another sign of how much pressure Amazon's delivery network is facing as more people stay home and shop online.

NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon said Tuesday that it will only accept shipments of cleaning equipment, medical supplies and household goods from suppliers at its warehouses for the next three weeks to fill surging demand. The online retailer has been sold out of items like disinfecting wipes and toilet paper as the new coronavirus spreads in the U.S. Amazon said the restrictions will last until April 5. It applies to large vendors and third-party sellers who list items to sell on Amazon.com directly. The announcement Tuesday is another sign of how much pressure Amazon's delivery network is facing as more people stay home and shop online.

More wipes, no jeans: Amazon limits shipments to warehouses

Lincoln County is closely monitoring the COVID-19 virus and as of today County offices will remain open, operating business as usual. Lincoln County is asking all residents to limit access to county offices as we try to limit the number of individuals in the courthouse.

The County has increased disinfecting protocol and is actively disinfecting throughout the day and evening. We ask that anyone that may be exhibiting a fever or symptoms of respiratory illness to not enter the county offices. We are also recommending the CDC preventative actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. The County has a West Central Public Health Department link on our website with updated information. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.co.lincoln.ne.us%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0bAEZHr8IZ_kJnaKJd7CwzSXeQuj38mhR3Jee0ih7uDsdC2jcONtRHol4&amp;h=AT2rzs_MX2-p4Q3H5VUET9fRPV-BR5Vn81xToocinZFK2JgEZi3y9P8BV6s7qn9sUCH5D1whHlTKNTIG-6prkl4Oht3JK3jvDH2Vm4WFstTcVZAgcjSJbptHIC-tGcsuzaUKtwhNhATFFJx1iYDEGjHkoW4ucKdDGolPuH6mIf39GeZ5eX37QXU6DgSQs8l7WNqmPf_JpSzCGDZVG6HWT9Exw5MgHSd7kdH9pmFv8_hod3kHXJRo6FSuFv60MUH4CRP4cWIN45ldnx21m4LlLInCFTcCw2tTsaHg-DUdMOao1Bmvvbh8V8VHVobBeeEHMWlCtzIURnu0hZov5aWAzFKiFcdd-y7Lpjp1uBOlruQJBtrqP8Tyw-2tu9GC3YmYsdRKY5aNAB-FXfjLHEkcniJn42JGK4a1fJcnPT0JKRUgkPZbSiy6ySiyHmwmbOUkkGAQGzQ8d-o1dpMyDuJUQ_cZahoNiHyzoQIoky6KOBUlsmXGkBSRkg1rZYdPns6dNoGehQeOlH_U5Rng8zLjqWiQxOE_Ov_uzU_mKDsQhpx5hAEqJYJ7R-aV9wvF3qBXyiO3d9OVfZ6BV2uA2hpYosIEvpzORxqIgUW9xiB6CCJYsxVeU2Ry5ACQp_-kpArPMKA" target="_blank">www.co.lincoln.ne.us</a>&nbsp;to be connected to all Lincoln County offices and for continuing updates.If you need to conduct business in County offices, we recommend utilizing online services, mail-in services and the County’s dropbox which is located in the parking lot of the Lincoln County Detention Center at 302 North Jeffers, near the Children’s Museum. Enter the parking lot on Third Street and turn right. Put everything in a secure envelope and address it to the desired County office. The dropbox is weatherproof, tamper-resistant and is located in a monitored parking area for security. NO POSTAGE NECESSARY! The dropbox is secure and is checked several times a day by authorized personnel. Any and all items that need to be delivered to any office in the Courthouse can be dropped in there. Please call the courthouse at 308-535-3500 to be directed to the requested department for any questions. Assessor’s Office-Homestead Exemption forms and Personal Property forms can be dropped in dropbox or mailed. If forms need to be picked up, please call the Assessor’s office and those forms will be mailed. Emails can be sent to stengejj@co.lincoln.ne.us

Clerk’s Office-Visit the county website for election information, check voter registration and/or register to vote. Please utilize the dropbox for anything that needs to be delivered. Emails can be sent to clerk@co.lincoln.ne.us

Commissioners-can be contacted via email at whitetj@co.lincoln.ne.us or by calling the courthouse main number at 308-535-3500.

Treasurer’s Office-Drivers Licenses and vehicle registrations can be renewed at www@dmv.Nebraska.gov Real Estate and property taxes can be paid online at NTO.US-Please utilize the County dropbox for anything that can be delivered. Any mailing fees will be waived. Emails can be sent to: Franzensm@co.lincoln.ne.us

County Attorney-Consider faxing or mailing in anything that needs to be delivered.

County Court, District Court and Clerk of the District Court–No one other than the Defendant, attorney or necessary witnesses will be allowed in the Courtroom. Please use the County drop box for anything that needs delivered.

The general public can remit payments online 24/7 for court costs, fines, general judgments, spousal support (alimony) and probation fees through&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FNebraska.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0MeVcgMqIyk2SF1S9veW-vvX9VsWv6TEscFs1tpbMKDnaxcd9zZczrQeQ&amp;h=AT1yYGuex3oac_txEccqWRE1cp5NHUrTgIO2OU3h0fbQP3p24u25LO6Xvtx99o9DNt6H_4bksMmEGLom7MPCmeKDQ1bnh3SvXoEIZTetLOkzLUYs76Q_Eqo4pbW_OP9RHrdwrepyCkxqQBUCSCrIiPaGFjcQFcuGVK2NwzpwVrFIjLd7iAc8JDI8pCNLQgdOevFqCxgoc0N0o1yvbS8cJgUI-o6ywIPGqZGhYgFmZ43U1j_UVTNZhYTFgKtqm0jDHquhtr1K5uuSSkyGXoJpb85Ix2057PKeGyNrNETZWJDPyJQyW5lyMryGqYi7bBQYA-oe2s8BSIeV0020lMXJ6AmHf0Hy3KUmQx6htMqCGFhRe-7vVL-hcddcLCrT0MPT4RZzE7X-U7uA6NNZoKT3ZsVdMrM7nWCRkesLCaGQxAYf-zCurAx59ES81kbcDMy3XDPr6BKs29hQDvOlIeu-MyV8HRjwTiUiias4a0QmCYXsIyZFZk1Y0vwwX0uxc2-RsdpV3qwAMzXOPV1rRWDLbOv2-0EuTO9nNeCUc3knxEyL0Tg-yFzaihEkzekSsJMjq7Z94ZR9lGxEW1qb15Ez5YIwOjJx4slg29o10o7u8lHMCAtuXXzCd-O9tSsfzvP_fLM" target="_blank">Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;at:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraska.gov%2Fapps-courts-epayments%2Fpublic%2Fonetime%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3EJFqLKz7TP5VO727lP6ZkGqcRToJ9DzO8CREiGFy1vh5AxHsNWnrhFck&amp;h=AT285JDuSPRTurKM485jmTCfj29oNMAJ5fnc7LChlFVC8AVN721uphZDscla4UJGonxzdZLikNlkjUkUoKB7L1ELnejsOQih1SQqv4Zy98UTqw0ioFOtt8YfCwhoOruCzRAbTdKN2Tso0WGlc3k6lmIFIkJwEwl8_amaiNViXpzD1-KgP4nCBgyGt3UdSWBlTEXqWE5GgKNotzbv75f7pEGAkkAXnl4c27XP9k_TR6Y8cno0zSEbK7Kzn95pyj78PzOrswqMNvwHeHnnqXaKcT32TuPVZcLcK6LWhdBsTcj_UqPTu7N0aBkYA9H-hfwwszHF74JlUyxyeg1cSPuko0x3HixV5n21gTqBPY7eBWJ3pzLh1BuAvE3lFgLaGgdaNpW7bRoc5JKKcuXxO0HRYPkbscRm0fdPlDkAmN4UeOJzARWQR9GGiwYk0rWv7lILq0ZNfkJopnUGR9JsfqQbU9UUzInjA14qojit86DOZUjF3z_0Oxd27doMO6vRGboeurk5Yjm1qW3UQPa8a7UBXZjg3tU9Wz0UkjZT_YL8F44jWSOP8jPPD-sp5HIpO0cBpirRkQ9qXIRGBq0FDlDXMTXl6Fa6WAPcFk1eU2iWqQgGNQnKeZMcw-Kja90rwW4Qdio" target="_blank">https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-courts-epaymen…/public/onetime</a>. Individuals utilizing the online payment website will need to know which Court their case was filed in (County or District, the appropriate county the matter was filed in, what type of subject matter their case pertains to (Criminal, Civil, etc., the two-digit year (i.e. “20” for 2020) and the case number. However, Child support payments must still be remitted through the Nebraska Child Support Payment Center, as previously ordered by the Court. Inquiries regarding Child Support Payments may be directed to the DHHS Customer Service Center, at 877-631-9973. If, in the event that State agencies such as the Child Support Enforcement Center should close due to the COVID-19 outbreak, they will have procedures in place to handle the functions associated with their usual handling of Child Support Payments.

Regarding submitting (filing) court documents, we ask that self-represented litigants submit pleadings (filings) via U.S. Mail. The mailing address for the Lincoln County Clerk of District Court is: 301 N Jeffers, North Platte, NE 69101. General correspondence, in lieu of telephonic inquiries, can be submitted to: debra.mccarthy@nebraska.gov . Should the Courthouse be closed, and should the Nebraska Supreme Court officially close the office of the Clerk of District Court, all inquiries and general correspondence will only be answered via email.

Protection Order applications are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraska.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3sxMPTzp0odF6US5Ln0CzoE-YjrEeRshGZa-4nzBmqjglTvVd_2R1MeyU&amp;h=AT0moLMjuq5LkmKrH_c0NB4DtW3DglM2vOgxGKJ9OIhupXgruvhIqwFiCJmrAC4WYzhuCp-dYrTHWZ2QsxF5gghUi6mTY2Iu_E8fyDrAnTNWX9INYNfcwYYqXcQJF79WI8tmOc8HWWWGmZiDG1Xfj2sGPrqS7ND2Q0qrPdmgYryzk3qMYDsHCxz8wrLRMfBzGdc7iI5GeDXqfS4B9T9nKJ_uSs3ttEVfsrdXEGhmm3mF7jhf7NQqZjEnbRsS70LgiZcXVozjtM1ifuMLoR7wlQGjsHr6DI3EIDWLPVnO0uy_Iln6BzXoSyVwl6u6mTH-emAVuENrgXUrTskpQiM5Fdi5JnbWyB3vbQ2ioGNCyIAdiuBIQ1ygE5HDTUZnmgkOfXWUps9GYS55KKNyV_37uRGxM8I4kgIUUYIgG6iMicRHyoNyX82RrfoMwQ6hUtJeaE23dBmGx_LBgo1mOwJcZWwFM3XnffgH-0cF6IikGJhUo8LJ5Gsw-EocjhIhckD1lv4y1yf9wejH847F79onTiTmPld32igUVGEhCIijKtux8I-Xbdllj4iCdk-wWg2r1v61AczSGB3xG8hw1Cux3h3zPHVAanSLgg3xDZpZnIWtCND46rPNDSTi5QbBzZf-B98" target="_blank">www.nebraska.gov.</a>&nbsp;During the pendency of the COVID-19 pandemic, should the District Court be closed, it will be necessary to mail your protection order request to the address listed above. Due to a possible Court and Courthouse shutdown, there will be no effective way to process the applications in a timely manner, so if an applicant feels they are in imminent danger, they are encouraged to contact law enforcement

News ReleaseLincoln County is closely monitoring the COVID-19 virus and as of today County offices will remain open, operating business as usual. Lincoln County is asking all residents to limit access to county offices as we try to limit the number of individuals in the courthouse.The County has increased disinfecting protocol and is actively disinfecting throughout the day and evening. We ask that anyone that may be exhibiting a fever or symptoms of respiratory illness to not enter the county offices. We are also recommending the CDC preventative actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. The County has a West Central Public Health Department link on our website with updated information. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.co.lincoln.ne.us%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0bAEZHr8IZ_kJnaKJd7CwzSXeQuj38mhR3Jee0ih7uDsdC2jcONtRHol4&amp;h=AT2rzs_MX2-p4Q3H5VUET9fRPV-BR5Vn81xToocinZFK2JgEZi3y9P8BV6s7qn9sUCH5D1whHlTKNTIG-6prkl4Oht3JK3jvDH2Vm4WFstTcVZAgcjSJbptHIC-tGcsuzaUKtwhNhATFFJx1iYDEGjHkoW4ucKdDGolPuH6mIf39GeZ5eX37QXU6DgSQs8l7WNqmPf_JpSzCGDZVG6HWT9Exw5MgHSd7kdH9pmFv8_hod3kHXJRo6FSuFv60MUH4CRP4cWIN45ldnx21m4LlLInCFTcCw2tTsaHg-DUdMOao1Bmvvbh8V8VHVobBeeEHMWlCtzIURnu0hZov5aWAzFKiFcdd-y7Lpjp1uBOlruQJBtrqP8Tyw-2tu9GC3YmYsdRKY5aNAB-FXfjLHEkcniJn42JGK4a1fJcnPT0JKRUgkPZbSiy6ySiyHmwmbOUkkGAQGzQ8d-o1dpMyDuJUQ_cZahoNiHyzoQIoky6KOBUlsmXGkBSRkg1rZYdPns6dNoGehQeOlH_U5Rng8zLjqWiQxOE_Ov_uzU_mKDsQhpx5hAEqJYJ7R-aV9wvF3qBXyiO3d9OVfZ6BV2uA2hpYosIEvpzORxqIgUW9xiB6CCJYsxVeU2Ry5ACQp_-kpArPMKA" target="_blank">www.co.lincoln.ne.us</a>&nbsp;to be connected to all Lincoln County offices and for continuing updates.If you need to conduct business in County offices, we recommend utilizing online services, mail-in services and the County’s dropbox which is located in the parking lot of the Lincoln County Detention Center at 302 North Jeffers, near the Children’s Museum. Enter the parking lot on Third Street and turn right. Put everything in a secure envelope and address it to the desired County office. The dropbox is weatherproof, tamper-resistant and is located in a monitored parking area for security. NO POSTAGE NECESSARY! The dropbox is secure and is checked several times a day by authorized personnel. Any and all items that need to be delivered to any office in the Courthouse can be dropped in there. Please call the courthouse at 308-535-3500 to be directed to the requested department for any questions. Assessor’s Office-Homestead Exemption forms and Personal Property forms can be dropped in dropbox or mailed. If forms need to be picked up, please call the Assessor’s office and those forms will be mailed. Emails can be sent to stengejj@co.lincoln.ne.usClerk’s Office-Visit the county website for election information, check voter registration and/or register to vote. Please utilize the dropbox for anything that needs to be delivered. Emails can be sent to clerk@co.lincoln.ne.usCommissioners-can be contacted via email at whitetj@co.lincoln.ne.us or by calling the courthouse main number at 308-535-3500.Treasurer’s Office-Drivers Licenses and vehicle registrations can be renewed at www@dmv.Nebraska.gov Real Estate and property taxes can be paid online at NTO.US-Please utilize the County dropbox for anything that can be delivered. Any mailing fees will be waived. Emails can be sent to: Franzensm@co.lincoln.ne.usCounty Attorney-Consider faxing or mailing in anything that needs to be delivered.County Court, District Court and Clerk of the District Court–No one other than the Defendant, attorney or necessary witnesses will be allowed in the Courtroom. Please use the County drop box for anything that needs delivered.The general public can remit payments online 24/7 for court costs, fines, general judgments, spousal support (alimony) and probation fees through&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FNebraska.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0MeVcgMqIyk2SF1S9veW-vvX9VsWv6TEscFs1tpbMKDnaxcd9zZczrQeQ&amp;h=AT1yYGuex3oac_txEccqWRE1cp5NHUrTgIO2OU3h0fbQP3p24u25LO6Xvtx99o9DNt6H_4bksMmEGLom7MPCmeKDQ1bnh3SvXoEIZTetLOkzLUYs76Q_Eqo4pbW_OP9RHrdwrepyCkxqQBUCSCrIiPaGFjcQFcuGVK2NwzpwVrFIjLd7iAc8JDI8pCNLQgdOevFqCxgoc0N0o1yvbS8cJgUI-o6ywIPGqZGhYgFmZ43U1j_UVTNZhYTFgKtqm0jDHquhtr1K5uuSSkyGXoJpb85Ix2057PKeGyNrNETZWJDPyJQyW5lyMryGqYi7bBQYA-oe2s8BSIeV0020lMXJ6AmHf0Hy3KUmQx6htMqCGFhRe-7vVL-hcddcLCrT0MPT4RZzE7X-U7uA6NNZoKT3ZsVdMrM7nWCRkesLCaGQxAYf-zCurAx59ES81kbcDMy3XDPr6BKs29hQDvOlIeu-MyV8HRjwTiUiias4a0QmCYXsIyZFZk1Y0vwwX0uxc2-RsdpV3qwAMzXOPV1rRWDLbOv2-0EuTO9nNeCUc3knxEyL0Tg-yFzaihEkzekSsJMjq7Z94ZR9lGxEW1qb15Ez5YIwOjJx4slg29o10o7u8lHMCAtuXXzCd-O9tSsfzvP_fLM" target="_blank">Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;at:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraska.gov%2Fapps-courts-epayments%2Fpublic%2Fonetime%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3EJFqLKz7TP5VO727lP6ZkGqcRToJ9DzO8CREiGFy1vh5AxHsNWnrhFck&amp;h=AT285JDuSPRTurKM485jmTCfj29oNMAJ5fnc7LChlFVC8AVN721uphZDscla4UJGonxzdZLikNlkjUkUoKB7L1ELnejsOQih1SQqv4Zy98UTqw0ioFOtt8YfCwhoOruCzRAbTdKN2Tso0WGlc3k6lmIFIkJwEwl8_amaiNViXpzD1-KgP4nCBgyGt3UdSWBlTEXqWE5GgKNotzbv75f7pEGAkkAXnl4c27XP9k_TR6Y8cno0zSEbK7Kzn95pyj78PzOrswqMNvwHeHnnqXaKcT32TuPVZcLcK6LWhdBsTcj_UqPTu7N0aBkYA9H-hfwwszHF74JlUyxyeg1cSPuko0x3HixV5n21gTqBPY7eBWJ3pzLh1BuAvE3lFgLaGgdaNpW7bRoc5JKKcuXxO0HRYPkbscRm0fdPlDkAmN4UeOJzARWQR9GGiwYk0rWv7lILq0ZNfkJopnUGR9JsfqQbU9UUzInjA14qojit86DOZUjF3z_0Oxd27doMO6vRGboeurk5Yjm1qW3UQPa8a7UBXZjg3tU9Wz0UkjZT_YL8F44jWSOP8jPPD-sp5HIpO0cBpirRkQ9qXIRGBq0FDlDXMTXl6Fa6WAPcFk1eU2iWqQgGNQnKeZMcw-Kja90rwW4Qdio" target="_blank">https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-courts-epaymen…/public/onetime</a>. Individuals utilizing the online payment website will need to know which Court their case was filed in (County or District, the appropriate county the matter was filed in, what type of subject matter their case pertains to (Criminal, Civil, etc., the two-digit year (i.e. “20” for 2020) and the case number. However, Child support payments must still be remitted through the Nebraska Child Support Payment Center, as previously ordered by the Court. Inquiries regarding Child Support Payments may be directed to the DHHS Customer Service Center, at 877-631-9973. If, in the event that State agencies such as the Child Support Enforcement Center should close due to the COVID-19 outbreak, they will have procedures in place to handle the functions associated with their usual handling of Child Support Payments.Regarding submitting (filing) court documents, we ask that self-represented litigants submit pleadings (filings) via U.S. Mail. The mailing address for the Lincoln County Clerk of District Court is: 301 N Jeffers, North Platte, NE 69101. General correspondence, in lieu of telephonic inquiries, can be submitted to: debra.mccarthy@nebraska.gov . Should the Courthouse be closed, and should the Nebraska Supreme Court officially close the office of the Clerk of District Court, all inquiries and general correspondence will only be answered via email.Protection Order applications are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraska.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3sxMPTzp0odF6US5Ln0CzoE-YjrEeRshGZa-4nzBmqjglTvVd_2R1MeyU&amp;h=AT0moLMjuq5LkmKrH_c0NB4DtW3DglM2vOgxGKJ9OIhupXgruvhIqwFiCJmrAC4WYzhuCp-dYrTHWZ2QsxF5gghUi6mTY2Iu_E8fyDrAnTNWX9INYNfcwYYqXcQJF79WI8tmOc8HWWWGmZiDG1Xfj2sGPrqS7ND2Q0qrPdmgYryzk3qMYDsHCxz8wrLRMfBzGdc7iI5GeDXqfS4B9T9nKJ_uSs3ttEVfsrdXEGhmm3mF7jhf7NQqZjEnbRsS70LgiZcXVozjtM1ifuMLoR7wlQGjsHr6DI3EIDWLPVnO0uy_Iln6BzXoSyVwl6u6mTH-emAVuENrgXUrTskpQiM5Fdi5JnbWyB3vbQ2ioGNCyIAdiuBIQ1ygE5HDTUZnmgkOfXWUps9GYS55KKNyV_37uRGxM8I4kgIUUYIgG6iMicRHyoNyX82RrfoMwQ6hUtJeaE23dBmGx_LBgo1mOwJcZWwFM3XnffgH-0cF6IikGJhUo8LJ5Gsw-EocjhIhckD1lv4y1yf9wejH847F79onTiTmPld32igUVGEhCIijKtux8I-Xbdllj4iCdk-wWg2r1v61AczSGB3xG8hw1Cux3h3zPHVAanSLgg3xDZpZnIWtCND46rPNDSTi5QbBzZf-B98" target="_blank">www.nebraska.gov.</a>&nbsp;During the pendency of the COVID-19 pandemic, should the District Court be closed, it will be necessary to mail your protection order request to the address listed above. Due to a possible Court and Courthouse shutdown, there will be no effective way to process the applications in a timely manner, so if an applicant feels they are in imminent danger, they are encouraged to contact law enforcement

It's 'business as usual' for Lincoln County Offices, for now, with provisions

VIDEO: City of North Platte news conference on COVID-19

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to permit state and local governmental boards, commissions, and other public bodies to meet by videoconference, teleconference, or other electronic means through May 31, 2020.&nbsp; The Governor’s order stipulated that all such virtual meetings must be available to members of the public, including media, to give citizens the opportunity to participate as well as to be duly informed of the meetings’ proceedings.&nbsp; The Governor’s order did not waive the advanced publicized notice and the agenda requirements for public meetings.

The Governor’s executive order comes a day after the White House Coronavirus Task Force issued guidance limiting social gatherings to 10 people or less through March 31, 2020.&nbsp; The executive order is part of an overall public health strategy to increase social distancing to stem the spread of the coronavirus disease.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to permit state and local governmental boards, commissions, and other public bodies to meet by videoconference, teleconference, or other electronic means through May 31, 2020.&nbsp; The Governor’s order stipulated that all such virtual meetings must be available to members of the public, including media, to give citizens the opportunity to participate as well as to be duly informed of the meetings’ proceedings.&nbsp; The Governor’s order did not waive the advanced publicized notice and the agenda requirements for public meetings.The Governor’s executive order comes a day after the White House Coronavirus Task Force issued guidance limiting social gatherings to 10 people or less through March 31, 2020.&nbsp; The executive order is part of an overall public health strategy to increase social distancing to stem the spread of the coronavirus disease.

Gov. Ricketts issues executive order to give public boards the flexibility to hold virtual meetings

Brady Public Schools is committed to providing services during closures caused by the COVID-19 Virus. In efforts to assist teachers in planning, Brady Public Schools conducted meetings and will continue to do so. Our teachers will provide educational opportunities through Enrichment/Learning Opportunity Activities during closure due to COVID 19 Virus on-line using google classroom and google docs. Tutorials on how to use these platforms will be available at&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/TcwTH0tMPSkE1oO3P09K0g~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRgUR1mP0QbaHR0cDovL3d3dy5icmFkeXNjaG9vbHMub3JnVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoAAObpb16MLhumUhhnaW5nZXIuNTIwMDk2MkBnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">www.bradyschools.org</a>.&nbsp;It is encouraged that Parents/Guardians make plans for school closure. Brady Public Schools will make every effort to provide advanced notice with guidance from West Central District Health Department. Announcement of any school closing will be done through the district’s automated messaging system, the districts’ website and area media outlets. If a student does not have access to a device, they can check a device out at the office as soon as possible. If internet access is a concern contact the following:<a href="https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more" target="_blank">https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more</a>

<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/HcIjNqsHbLlvnkDRUO66HA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRgUR1mP0SiaHR0cHM6Ly9jb3Jwb3JhdGUuY2hhcnRlci5jb20vbmV3c3Jvb20vY2hhcnRlci10by1vZmZlci1mcmVlLWFjY2Vzcy10by1zcGVjdHJ1bS1icm9hZGJhbmQtYW5kLXdpZmktZm9yLTYwLWRheXMtZm9yLW5ldy1LMTItYW5kLWNvbGxlZ2Utc3R1ZGVudC1ob3VzZWhvbGRzLWFuZC1tb3JlVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoAAObpb16MLhumUhhnaW5nZXIuNTIwMDk2MkBnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more</a>

Brady Public Schools will also increase their hotspots on the exterior of the building.

Food Services will make every effort to supply breakfast and lunch for students during a closure due to the COVID-19 Virus. In the event of such a closure, we ask that parents/guardians contact the school at 308-584-3317 with the number of student meals to be prepared by 3:30 the day before the meal request. Breakfast can be picked up from 8:00 am- 9:00 am and lunch from 11:00 am -12:30 pm.

Brady Public Schools is committed to providing services during closures caused by the COVID-19 Virus. In efforts to assist teachers in planning, Brady Public Schools conducted meetings and will continue to do so. Our teachers will provide educational opportunities through Enrichment/Learning Opportunity Activities during closure due to COVID 19 Virus on-line using google classroom and google docs. Tutorials on how to use these platforms will be available at&nbsp;<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/TcwTH0tMPSkE1oO3P09K0g~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRgUR1mP0QbaHR0cDovL3d3dy5icmFkeXNjaG9vbHMub3JnVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoAAObpb16MLhumUhhnaW5nZXIuNTIwMDk2MkBnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">www.bradyschools.org</a>.&nbsp;It is encouraged that Parents/Guardians make plans for school closure. Brady Public Schools will make every effort to provide advanced notice with guidance from West Central District Health Department. Announcement of any school closing will be done through the district’s automated messaging system, the districts’ website and area media outlets. If a student does not have access to a device, they can check a device out at the office as soon as possible. If internet access is a concern contact the following:<a href="https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more" target="_blank">https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more</a><a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/HcIjNqsHbLlvnkDRUO66HA~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRgUR1mP0SiaHR0cHM6Ly9jb3Jwb3JhdGUuY2hhcnRlci5jb20vbmV3c3Jvb20vY2hhcnRlci10by1vZmZlci1mcmVlLWFjY2Vzcy10by1zcGVjdHJ1bS1icm9hZGJhbmQtYW5kLXdpZmktZm9yLTYwLWRheXMtZm9yLW5ldy1LMTItYW5kLWNvbGxlZ2Utc3R1ZGVudC1ob3VzZWhvbGRzLWFuZC1tb3JlVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoAAObpb16MLhumUhhnaW5nZXIuNTIwMDk2MkBnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE~" target="_blank">https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more</a>Brady Public Schools will also increase their hotspots on the exterior of the building.Food Services will make every effort to supply breakfast and lunch for students during a closure due to the COVID-19 Virus. In the event of such a closure, we ask that parents/guardians contact the school at 308-584-3317 with the number of student meals to be prepared by 3:30 the day before the meal request. Breakfast can be picked up from 8:00 am- 9:00 am and lunch from 11:00 am -12:30 pm.

Brady Schools to offer food service during temporary closure

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Eight Nebraska residents who were on a cruise ship forced to idle off the California coast because of COVID-19 cases aboard have returned to the state and will isolate themselves for 14 days, officials said.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f261b079e06fe65d181db8f9d8b64bd6" target="_blank">Grand Princess</a>&nbsp;pulled into the Port of Oakland March 9 with more than 3,500 people aboard - 21 confirmed to be infected with the new virus. The Nebraska residents were among those then taken for quarantine at a California military facility. Eight of them flew back to Nebraska on Monday, the Nebraska Health and Human Services Department said. Four more will be arriving in the coming days.

The passengers were medically screened before their flights to ensure they were not showing symptoms of COVID-19 or other illness. They will be monitored by their local health departments, the state said.

For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

According to the World Health Organization, people with mild cases recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe ones can take three to six weeks to get better.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Eight Nebraska residents who were on a cruise ship forced to idle off the California coast because of COVID-19 cases aboard have returned to the state and will isolate themselves for 14 days, officials said.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f261b079e06fe65d181db8f9d8b64bd6" target="_blank">Grand Princess</a>&nbsp;pulled into the Port of Oakland March 9 with more than 3,500 people aboard - 21 confirmed to be infected with the new virus. The Nebraska residents were among those then taken for quarantine at a California military facility. Eight of them flew back to Nebraska on Monday, the Nebraska Health and Human Services Department said. Four more will be arriving in the coming days.The passengers were medically screened before their flights to ensure they were not showing symptoms of COVID-19 or other illness. They will be monitored by their local health departments, the state said.For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.According to the World Health Organization, people with mild cases recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe ones can take three to six weeks to get better.

Federal effort brings Nebraskans on cruise ship back home

SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. researchers gave the first shots in a first test of an experimental coronavirus vaccine Monday, leading off a worldwide hunt for protection even as the pandemic surges.

With careful jabs in the arms of four healthy volunteers, scientists at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Research Institute in Seattle began an anxiously awaited first-stage study of a potential COVID-19 vaccine developed in record time after the new virus exploded out of China and fanned out across the globe.

“We’re team coronavirus now,” Kaiser Permanente study leader Dr. Lisa Jackson said on the eve of the experiment. “Everyone wants to do what they can in this emergency.”

The Associated Press observed as the study’s first participant, an operations manager at a small tech company, received the injection in an exam room.

“We all feel so helpless. This is an amazing opportunity for me to do something,” Jennifer Haller, 43, of Seattle said before getting vaccinated. Her two teenagers “think it's cool” that she's taking part in the study.

After the injection, she left the exam room with a big smile: “I'm feeling great."

Three others were next in line for a test that will ultimately give 45 volunteers two doses, a month apart.

Neal Browning, 46, of Bothell, Washington, is a Microsoft network engineer who says his young daughters are proud he volunteered.

“Every parent wants their children to look up to them,” he said. But he’s told them not to brag to their friends. “It’s other people, too. It’s not just Dad out there.”

Monday’s milestone marked just the beginning of a series of studies in people needed to prove whether the shots are safe and could work. Even if the research goes well, a vaccine would not be available for widespread use for 12 to 18 months, said Dr. Anthony Fauci of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

Still, finding a vaccine “is an urgent public health priority,” Fauci said in a statement Monday. The new study “is an important first step toward achieving that goal.”

This vaccine candidate, code-named mRNA-1273, was developed by the NIH and Massachusetts-based biotechnology company Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected because the shots do not contain the coronavirus itself.

It’s not the only potential vaccine in the pipeline. Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine against COVID-19. Another candidate, made by Inovio Pharmaceuticals, is expected to begin its own safety study next month in the U.S., China and South Korea.

The Seattle experiment got underway days after the World Health Organization declared the new virus outbreak a pandemic because of its rapid global spread, which has infected more than 169,000 people and killed more than 6,500.

COVID-19 has upended the world’s social and economic fabric since China first identified the virus in January, with broad regions shuttering schools and businesses, restricting travel, canceling entertainment and sporting events, and encouraging people to stay away from each other.

Starting what scientists call a first-in-humans study is a momentous occasion for scientists, but Jackson described her team’s mood as “subdued.” They’ve been working around-the-clock readying the research in a part of the U.S. struck early and hard by the virus.

Still, “going from not even knowing that this virus was out there ... to have any vaccine” in testing in about two months is unprecedented, Jackson told the AP.

Some of the study’s carefully chosen healthy volunteers, ages 18 to 55, will get higher dosages than others to test how strong the inoculations should be. Scientists will check for any side effects and draw blood samples to test if the vaccine is revving up the immune system, looking for encouraging clues like the NIH earlier found in vaccinated mice.

“We don’t know whether this vaccine will induce an immune response or whether it will be safe. That’s why we’re doing a trial,” Jackson stressed. “It’s not at the stage where it would be possible or prudent to give it to the general population.”

Most of the vaccine research under way globally targets a protein aptly named “spike” that studs the surface of the new coronavirus and lets it invade human cells. Block that protein and people cannot get infected.

Researchers at the NIH copied the section of the virus’ genetic code that contains the instructions for cells to create the spike protein. Moderna encased that “messenger RNA” into a vaccine.

The idea: The body will become a mini-factory, producing some harmless spike protein. When the immune system spots the foreign protein, it will make antibodies to attack — and be primed to react quickly if the person later encounters the real virus.

That’s a much faster way of producing a vaccine than the traditional approach of growing virus in the lab and preparing shots from either killed or weakened versions of it.

But because vaccines are given to millions of healthy people, it takes time to test them in large enough numbers to spot an uncommon side effect, cautioned Dr. Nelson Michael of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, which is developing a different vaccine candidate.

“The science can go very quickly but, first, do no harm, right?” he told reporters last week.

The Seattle research institute is part of a government network that tests all kinds of vaccines and was chosen for the coronavirus vaccine study before COVID-19 began spreading widely in Washington state.

Kaiser Permanente screened dozens of people, looking for those who have no chronic health problems and are not currently sick. Researchers are not checking whether would-be volunteers already had a mild case of COVID-19 before deciding if they are eligible.

If some did, scientists will be able to tell by the number of antibodies in their pre-vaccination blood test and account for that, Jackson said. Participants will be paid $100 for each clinic visit in the study.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A clinical trial evaluating a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin Monday, according to a government official.

The first participant in the trial will receive the experimental vaccine on Monday, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the trial has not been publicly announced yet. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial, which is taking place at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle, the official said.

Public health officials say it will take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine.

Testing will begin with 45 young, healthy volunteers with different doses of shots co-developed by NIH and Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected from the shots, because they don’t contain the virus itself. The goal is purely to check that the vaccines show no worrisome side effects, setting the stage for larger tests.

Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine as COVID-19 cases continue to grow. Importantly, they’re pursuing different types of vaccines — shots developed from new technologies that not only are faster to produce than traditional inoculations but might prove more potent. Some researchers even aim for temporary vaccines, such as shots that might guard people’s health a month or two at a time while longer-lasting protection is developed.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead. The death toll in the United States is more than 50, while infections neared 3,000 across 49 states and the District of Columbia.

The vast majority of people recover. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three weeks to six weeks to recover.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579661439404.jpeg" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. researchers gave the first shots in a first test of an experimental coronavirus vaccine Monday, leading off a worldwide hunt for protection even as the pandemic surges.With careful jabs in the arms of four healthy volunteers, scientists at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Research Institute in Seattle began an anxiously awaited first-stage study of a potential COVID-19 vaccine developed in record time after the new virus exploded out of China and fanned out across the globe.“We’re team coronavirus now,” Kaiser Permanente study leader Dr. Lisa Jackson said on the eve of the experiment. “Everyone wants to do what they can in this emergency.”The Associated Press observed as the study’s first participant, an operations manager at a small tech company, received the injection in an exam room.“We all feel so helpless. This is an amazing opportunity for me to do something,” Jennifer Haller, 43, of Seattle said before getting vaccinated. Her two teenagers “think it's cool” that she's taking part in the study.After the injection, she left the exam room with a big smile: “I'm feeling great."Three others were next in line for a test that will ultimately give 45 volunteers two doses, a month apart.Neal Browning, 46, of Bothell, Washington, is a Microsoft network engineer who says his young daughters are proud he volunteered.“Every parent wants their children to look up to them,” he said. But he’s told them not to brag to their friends. “It’s other people, too. It’s not just Dad out there.”Monday’s milestone marked just the beginning of a series of studies in people needed to prove whether the shots are safe and could work. Even if the research goes well, a vaccine would not be available for widespread use for 12 to 18 months, said Dr. Anthony Fauci of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.Still, finding a vaccine “is an urgent public health priority,” Fauci said in a statement Monday. The new study “is an important first step toward achieving that goal.”This vaccine candidate, code-named mRNA-1273, was developed by the NIH and Massachusetts-based biotechnology company Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected because the shots do not contain the coronavirus itself.It’s not the only potential vaccine in the pipeline. Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine against COVID-19. Another candidate, made by Inovio Pharmaceuticals, is expected to begin its own safety study next month in the U.S., China and South Korea.The Seattle experiment got underway days after the World Health Organization declared the new virus outbreak a pandemic because of its rapid global spread, which has infected more than 169,000 people and killed more than 6,500.COVID-19 has upended the world’s social and economic fabric since China first identified the virus in January, with broad regions shuttering schools and businesses, restricting travel, canceling entertainment and sporting events, and encouraging people to stay away from each other.Starting what scientists call a first-in-humans study is a momentous occasion for scientists, but Jackson described her team’s mood as “subdued.” They’ve been working around-the-clock readying the research in a part of the U.S. struck early and hard by the virus.Still, “going from not even knowing that this virus was out there ... to have any vaccine” in testing in about two months is unprecedented, Jackson told the AP.Some of the study’s carefully chosen healthy volunteers, ages 18 to 55, will get higher dosages than others to test how strong the inoculations should be. Scientists will check for any side effects and draw blood samples to test if the vaccine is revving up the immune system, looking for encouraging clues like the NIH earlier found in vaccinated mice.“We don’t know whether this vaccine will induce an immune response or whether it will be safe. That’s why we’re doing a trial,” Jackson stressed. “It’s not at the stage where it would be possible or prudent to give it to the general population.”Most of the vaccine research under way globally targets a protein aptly named “spike” that studs the surface of the new coronavirus and lets it invade human cells. Block that protein and people cannot get infected.Researchers at the NIH copied the section of the virus’ genetic code that contains the instructions for cells to create the spike protein. Moderna encased that “messenger RNA” into a vaccine.The idea: The body will become a mini-factory, producing some harmless spike protein. When the immune system spots the foreign protein, it will make antibodies to attack — and be primed to react quickly if the person later encounters the real virus.That’s a much faster way of producing a vaccine than the traditional approach of growing virus in the lab and preparing shots from either killed or weakened versions of it.But because vaccines are given to millions of healthy people, it takes time to test them in large enough numbers to spot an uncommon side effect, cautioned Dr. Nelson Michael of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, which is developing a different vaccine candidate.“The science can go very quickly but, first, do no harm, right?” he told reporters last week.The Seattle research institute is part of a government network that tests all kinds of vaccines and was chosen for the coronavirus vaccine study before COVID-19 began spreading widely in Washington state.Kaiser Permanente screened dozens of people, looking for those who have no chronic health problems and are not currently sick. Researchers are not checking whether would-be volunteers already had a mild case of COVID-19 before deciding if they are eligible.If some did, scientists will be able to tell by the number of antibodies in their pre-vaccination blood test and account for that, Jackson said. Participants will be paid $100 for each clinic visit in the study.--------WASHINGTON (AP) — A clinical trial evaluating a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin Monday, according to a government official.The first participant in the trial will receive the experimental vaccine on Monday, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the trial has not been publicly announced yet. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial, which is taking place at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle, the official said.Public health officials say it will take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine.Testing will begin with 45 young, healthy volunteers with different doses of shots co-developed by NIH and Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected from the shots, because they don’t contain the virus itself. The goal is purely to check that the vaccines show no worrisome side effects, setting the stage for larger tests.Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine as COVID-19 cases continue to grow. Importantly, they’re pursuing different types of vaccines — shots developed from new technologies that not only are faster to produce than traditional inoculations but might prove more potent. Some researchers even aim for temporary vaccines, such as shots that might guard people’s health a month or two at a time while longer-lasting protection is developed.For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead. The death toll in the United States is more than 50, while infections neared 3,000 across 49 states and the District of Columbia.The vast majority of people recover. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three weeks to six weeks to recover.___

 Coronavirus vaccine test opens with first doses

LINCOLN-As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state rises, the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) is sharing additional guidance on alternate learning environments, nutrition, and assessment. In all recommendations, the priority remains the safety and well-being of all students, educators, staff, and community members.

By Monday, March 23, the NDE recommends that all schools across the state move to an alternate learning structure with students no longer reporting to a traditional school setting, until further notice. School districts should work regionally by educational service unit to develop an orderly plan to transition to an alternate learning environment by Friday, March 20, unless told to close sooner. Schools should be prepared to operate in the alternate learning environment for six-eight weeks, with a review of operations every two weeks, including plans for re-opening.

Local school districts have been preparing for potential closures for weeks and many have already&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/publichealth/known-school-closures/" target="_blank">implemented closures</a>&nbsp;to address recent presumed positive or confirmed cases of COVID-19. The NDE advises districts to continue student learning using available resources. The NDE Office of Teaching, Learning, and Assessment has compiled virtual educational resources that are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/educational-technology/e-learning-days/" target="_blank">e-Learning Days web page</a>, and will continue to add resources as they become available.

The NDE knows food insecurity for students who rely on school meals is a major concern when extended school closures become necessary. The NDE was granted approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for alternate meal service flexibility in the case of extended closures. This allows schools to serve students meals through USDA-approved meal service options, at approved sites within the community. All schools with a student population of more than 50 percent free and reduced priced lunch have the opportunity to provide meals through the Summer Food Service Program whether or not they have participated in the program. Those schools will first need to complete an&nbsp;<a href="https://nutrition.education.ne.gov/Splash.aspx" target="_blank">application and questionnaire</a>. Once approved, schools will be able to provide these meals to any student, regardless of their enrollment. Schools with a student population of less than 50 percent free and reduced priced lunch can provide meals to low-income students in their school on a limited basis through an application. For more information or to apply, visit the Nutrition Services page at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/ns/" target="_blank">https://www.education.ne.gov/ns/</a>.

The NDE is aware of concerns regarding the state’s assessment and accountability systems and the impact of COVID-19 and related closures on these policies. The NDE is suspending summative statewide assessment (NSCAS) for the 2019-2020 school year. This includes NSCAS – General, Alternate, and ACT.&nbsp; The NDE intends to pursue federal waivers for testing, accountability, and reporting requirements.&nbsp;The NDE is working with ACT to determine if all public high school juniors who would normally take the ACT as part of the statewide assessment may have the opportunity to take the ACT free-of-charge at a later date.

News ReleaseLINCOLN-As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state rises, the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) is sharing additional guidance on alternate learning environments, nutrition, and assessment. In all recommendations, the priority remains the safety and well-being of all students, educators, staff, and community members.Alternate Learning EnvironmentsBy Monday, March 23, the NDE recommends that all schools across the state move to an alternate learning structure with students no longer reporting to a traditional school setting, until further notice. School districts should work regionally by educational service unit to develop an orderly plan to transition to an alternate learning environment by Friday, March 20, unless told to close sooner. Schools should be prepared to operate in the alternate learning environment for six-eight weeks, with a review of operations every two weeks, including plans for re-opening.Local school districts have been preparing for potential closures for weeks and many have already&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/publichealth/known-school-closures/" target="_blank">implemented closures</a>&nbsp;to address recent presumed positive or confirmed cases of COVID-19. The NDE advises districts to continue student learning using available resources. The NDE Office of Teaching, Learning, and Assessment has compiled virtual educational resources that are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/educational-technology/e-learning-days/" target="_blank">e-Learning Days web page</a>, and will continue to add resources as they become available.NutritionThe NDE knows food insecurity for students who rely on school meals is a major concern when extended school closures become necessary. The NDE was granted approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for alternate meal service flexibility in the case of extended closures. This allows schools to serve students meals through USDA-approved meal service options, at approved sites within the community. All schools with a student population of more than 50 percent free and reduced priced lunch have the opportunity to provide meals through the Summer Food Service Program whether or not they have participated in the program. Those schools will first need to complete an&nbsp;<a href="https://nutrition.education.ne.gov/Splash.aspx" target="_blank">application and questionnaire</a>. Once approved, schools will be able to provide these meals to any student, regardless of their enrollment. Schools with a student population of less than 50 percent free and reduced priced lunch can provide meals to low-income students in their school on a limited basis through an application. For more information or to apply, visit the Nutrition Services page at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/ns/" target="_blank">https://www.education.ne.gov/ns/</a>.Assessment and AccountabilityThe NDE is aware of concerns regarding the state’s assessment and accountability systems and the impact of COVID-19 and related closures on these policies. The NDE is suspending summative statewide assessment (NSCAS) for the 2019-2020 school year. This includes NSCAS – General, Alternate, and ACT.&nbsp; The NDE intends to pursue federal waivers for testing, accountability, and reporting requirements.&nbsp;The NDE is working with ACT to determine if all public high school juniors who would normally take the ACT as part of the statewide assessment may have the opportunity to take the ACT free-of-charge at a later date.

Nebraska offers guidance to schools regarding COVID-19

Facebook Post-McCook Public Schools

Starting Tuesday, March 17, 2020, McCook Public Schools will begin serving free meals to all students of McCook Public Schools. This is in response to school closings due to the coronavirus pandemic. A waiver has been granted by the United States Department of Agriculture providing additional flexibilities based on the exceptional circumstances relating to the declaration of a public health emergency due to COVID-19. Free&nbsp;meals will be available during the school days when school is closed due to this health emergency.

To receive free meals during the emergency, we ask that you contact the school where your student attends by 9:00 AM on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, and request your meals. This request will reserve meals for your student for the remainder of the week and allow the district to prepare the proper number of meals. Each student will receive a breakfast and a lunch meal each day. Adult meals may be purchased as usual.

Meals may be picked up at the Junior High School between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM each day of the school closure. This will be a drive-through grab-n-go meal in a bag. Staff members will be on hand to assist and direct traffic.

Facebook Post-McCook Public SchoolsStarting Tuesday, March 17, 2020, McCook Public Schools will begin serving free meals to all students of McCook Public Schools. This is in response to school closings due to the coronavirus pandemic. A waiver has been granted by the United States Department of Agriculture providing additional flexibilities based on the exceptional circumstances relating to the declaration of a public health emergency due to COVID-19. Free&nbsp;meals will be available during the school days when school is closed due to this health emergency.To receive free meals during the emergency, we ask that you contact the school where your student attends by 9:00 AM on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, and request your meals. This request will reserve meals for your student for the remainder of the week and allow the district to prepare the proper number of meals. Each student will receive a breakfast and a lunch meal each day. Adult meals may be purchased as usual.Meals may be picked up at the Junior High School between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM each day of the school closure. This will be a drive-through grab-n-go meal in a bag. Staff members will be on hand to assist and direct traffic.

McCook Public Schools serving free meals to students during closure

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Officials in six San Francisco Bay Area counties issued a shelter-in-place mandate on Monday affecting nearly 7 million people, including the city of San Francisco itself. 

The order says residents must stay inside and venture out only for necessities for three weeks starting Tuesday in a desperate attempt by officials to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. 

It affects the counties of San Francisco, Marin, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda and Contra Costa. 

Millions of students are staying home from school to contain the spread of the coronavirus, with districts covering 85% of the state's students shuttered.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Officials in six San Francisco Bay Area counties issued a shelter-in-place mandate on Monday affecting nearly 7 million people, including the city of San Francisco itself. The order says residents must stay inside and venture out only for necessities for three weeks starting Tuesday in a desperate attempt by officials to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. It affects the counties of San Francisco, Marin, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda and Contra Costa. Millions of students are staying home from school to contain the spread of the coronavirus, with districts covering 85% of the state's students shuttered.

San Francisco Bay Area counties issue shelter-in-place order

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The UFC has postponed its next three scheduled events through April 11. 

The mixed martial arts promotion has finally given up on President Dana White's determination to keep fighting amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

White insists he will hold UFC 249 on April 18, although he doesn't have a venue for it. Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is scheduled to fight Tony Ferguson in the promotion's biggest pay-per-view show of the spring. 

The UFC finally joined nearly every other major worldwide sports organization in postponing its events only after White heard about the White House's recommendation to avoid gatherings of 10 or more people.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The UFC has postponed its next three scheduled events through April 11. The mixed martial arts promotion has finally given up on President Dana White's determination to keep fighting amid the coronavirus pandemic. White insists he will hold UFC 249 on April 18, although he doesn't have a venue for it. Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is scheduled to fight Tony Ferguson in the promotion's biggest pay-per-view show of the spring. The UFC finally joined nearly every other major worldwide sports organization in postponing its events only after White heard about the White House's recommendation to avoid gatherings of 10 or more people.

UFC finally postpones next 3 scheduled events amid pandemic

BRADY, Neb.-Brady Public Schools will close temporarily due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.

The following message was sent to parents and students:

Brady Public Schools will be closing due to the risk of the COVID-19 virus starting Wednesday, March 18th and running through Friday, March 27th.&nbsp; Earlier, today a letter was sent home with your students as well as emailed with our plans for a school closing. With a school closing now a reality, please check the letter as well as visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bradyschools.org/" target="_blank">www.bradyschools.org</a>&nbsp;for further information as the current situation evolves.&nbsp;

BRADY, Neb.-Brady Public Schools will close temporarily due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.The following message was sent to parents and students:Brady Public Schools will be closing due to the risk of the COVID-19 virus starting Wednesday, March 18th and running through Friday, March 27th.&nbsp; Earlier, today a letter was sent home with your students as well as emailed with our plans for a school closing. With a school closing now a reality, please check the letter as well as visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bradyschools.org/" target="_blank">www.bradyschools.org</a>&nbsp;for further information as the current situation evolves.&nbsp;

Brady Public Schools to close temporarily

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Omaha Public Schools will remain closed indefinitely to help limit the spread of the new coronavirus, officials announced Monday.

The Omaha district had earlier announced plans for temporary closures that would extend spring breaks to about two weeks, but officials now say there is no tentative date to resume classes. District administrators said they will evaluate health conditions every two weeks and consult with local and state officials as they determine when to reopen.

The move followed Nebraska Commissioner of Education Matt Blomstedt's request that schools make plans for school closures.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Omaha Public Schools will remain closed indefinitely to help limit the spread of the new coronavirus, officials announced Monday.The Omaha district had earlier announced plans for temporary closures that would extend spring breaks to about two weeks, but officials now say there is no tentative date to resume classes. District administrators said they will evaluate health conditions every two weeks and consult with local and state officials as they determine when to reopen.The move followed Nebraska Commissioner of Education Matt Blomstedt's request that schools make plans for school closures.

Omaha Public Schools extends school closures indefinitely

MAYWOOD, Neb.-Maywood Public School is the latest area school to announce a temporary closure due to COVID-19.

It was also announced that prom would be postponed.

The school made the announcements on their Facebook page:

MAYWOOD, Neb.-Maywood Public School is the latest area school to announce a temporary closure due to COVID-19.It was also announced that prom would be postponed.The school made the announcements on their Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMaywoodPublicSchool%2Fposts%2F1642440805897005&width=500" width="500" height="230" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMaywoodPublicSchool%2Fposts%2F1642446692563083&width=500" width="500" height="242" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Maywood Public School announces temporary closure

The Sun Theatre has decided to cancel or postpone all movies and events in March. As a community theatre, we value the health and well-being of all of our patrons. Events in April are still planned as scheduled but subject to change as necessary. More details will follow about upcoming events.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Specifically, the events that are affected are as&nbsp;follows:

Arts &amp; Entertainment Series: Wildwoods concert-Postponed

Movie: The Way Back (March. 20-22)-Cancelled

The Sun Theatre has decided to cancel or postpone all movies and events in March. As a community theatre, we value the health and well-being of all of our patrons. Events in April are still planned as scheduled but subject to change as necessary. More details will follow about upcoming events.&nbsp;&nbsp;Specifically, the events that are affected are as&nbsp;follows:Arts &amp; Entertainment Series: Wildwoods concert-PostponedSILO, the movie-PostponedFood &amp; Film: Crane Song-CancelledLouder than a Bomb Poetry Slam-CancelledMovie: The Way Back (March. 20-22)-CancelledMovie: Onward (March 27-29)-Cancelled

Sun Theater in Gothenburg announces cancellations 

The following Community Connections events and activities&nbsp;are canceled until March 28th;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584389934181.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The following Community Connections events and activities&nbsp;are canceled until March 28th;&nbsp;Assets Team MeetingsImpact Team ClassesYouth Leaders MeetingsMentoring ActivitiesPrescription Drug Collection

Community Connections cancels events due to virus fears

HERSHEY, Neb.-Hershey Public Schools has announced that they will temporarily close due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.

The school made the announcement on their website:

Hershey Public Schools has been collaborating with West Central Health District, Nebraska Department of Education, the Governor’s Office and area schools during this unprecedented COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.&nbsp; This collaboration has included recommendations for continuing educational services for our students, monitoring the spread of the virus in our area, and making sound rational decisions.&nbsp; However, the information that we are receiving is changing so quickly that it makes decision-making and communication difficult.

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this historic event.&nbsp;&nbsp; Hershey Public Schools is in session today, Monday, March 16th.&nbsp; We are announcing that we will be closed Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 27th.&nbsp; We are using today for teachers to meet with students and review with them what online or paper packet enrichment may look like at each grade level and subject level and in each course content.&nbsp; Students will clear out their desk or locker and bringing home their supplies and textbooks needed for enrichment along with any other personal belongings.

Our administrative team has been meeting often to consider what educational opportunities we might be able to provide students in the case of a long-term closure such as this. Our teaching staff will be working while students are out of school to have these enrichment activities prepared for students at all grade levels.&nbsp; Families will be receiving communication from your student’s Principal that more thoroughly outlines what to expect with these activities.&nbsp; Activities will not be fully available until Tuesday, March 24th.

As you well know, there are so many unknowns that I can’t possibly answer every question or state what every aspect of education will look like going forward.&nbsp; Please understand that we are working hard to do what is best for our students and the community of Hershey in regards to health, safety, and education.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There are many factors to consider when making this decision. To reiterate and make clear, Hershey Public Schools will be closed to students starting Tuesday, March 17th through Friday, March 27th. An announcement concerning attendance after that date will be shared at a later time. All school-related functions will be cancelled/postponed during this time including practices, games, HELP Club Carnival, Hershey Fire-Spaghetti Fundraiser and prom. The use of school facilities (gym, weight room, PLC, etc.) will also be postponed during this time. &nbsp;Teachers will be able to enter the building to work in their rooms at this time or until they are instructed otherwise.

A sincere thank you to the families of our district for their trust, patience, and understanding during this time. We recognize the hardships it might create, but also appreciate their commitment to the safety and well-being of all our students and employees.

HERSHEY, Neb.-Hershey Public Schools has announced that they will temporarily close due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.The school made the announcement on their website:Dear Parents and PatronsHershey Public Schools has been collaborating with West Central Health District, Nebraska Department of Education, the Governor’s Office and area schools during this unprecedented COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.&nbsp; This collaboration has included recommendations for continuing educational services for our students, monitoring the spread of the virus in our area, and making sound rational decisions.&nbsp; However, the information that we are receiving is changing so quickly that it makes decision-making and communication difficult.We appreciate your patience and understanding during this historic event.&nbsp;&nbsp; Hershey Public Schools is in session today, Monday, March 16th.&nbsp; We are announcing that we will be closed Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 27th.&nbsp; We are using today for teachers to meet with students and review with them what online or paper packet enrichment may look like at each grade level and subject level and in each course content.&nbsp; Students will clear out their desk or locker and bringing home their supplies and textbooks needed for enrichment along with any other personal belongings.Our administrative team has been meeting often to consider what educational opportunities we might be able to provide students in the case of a long-term closure such as this. Our teaching staff will be working while students are out of school to have these enrichment activities prepared for students at all grade levels.&nbsp; Families will be receiving communication from your student’s Principal that more thoroughly outlines what to expect with these activities.&nbsp; Activities will not be fully available until Tuesday, March 24th.As you well know, there are so many unknowns that I can’t possibly answer every question or state what every aspect of education will look like going forward.&nbsp; Please understand that we are working hard to do what is best for our students and the community of Hershey in regards to health, safety, and education.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There are many factors to consider when making this decision. To reiterate and make clear, Hershey Public Schools will be closed to students starting Tuesday, March 17th through Friday, March 27th. An announcement concerning attendance after that date will be shared at a later time. All school-related functions will be cancelled/postponed during this time including practices, games, HELP Club Carnival, Hershey Fire-Spaghetti Fundraiser and prom. The use of school facilities (gym, weight room, PLC, etc.) will also be postponed during this time. &nbsp;Teachers will be able to enter the building to work in their rooms at this time or until they are instructed otherwise.A sincere thank you to the families of our district for their trust, patience, and understanding during this time. We recognize the hardships it might create, but also appreciate their commitment to the safety and well-being of all our students and employees.SincerelyJane Davis, SuperintendentHershey Public Schools

Hershey Public Schools announce temporary closure due to virus

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House on Monday urged all older Americans to stay home and everyone to avoid crowds and eating out at restaurants as part of sweeping guidelines meant to combat an expected surge of coronavirus cases. 

President Donald Trump and the coronavirus task force released the guidelines as the U.S. government moved to try to blunt the impact of the virus.  Among new guidelines: 

Over the next 15 days, Americans should not gather in groups of more than 10 people, schooling should be at home and discretionary travel and social visits should be avoided. If anyone in a household tests positive for the virus, everyone who lives there should stay home.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House on Monday urged all older Americans to stay home and everyone to avoid crowds and eating out at restaurants as part of sweeping guidelines meant to combat an expected surge of coronavirus cases. President Donald Trump and the coronavirus task force released the guidelines as the U.S. government moved to try to blunt the impact of the virus. Among new guidelines: Over the next 15 days, Americans should not gather in groups of more than 10 people, schooling should be at home and discretionary travel and social visits should be avoided. If anyone in a household tests positive for the virus, everyone who lives there should stay home.

US tells older people to stay home, all ages to avoid crowds

LINCOLN, Neb. – In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at its facilities, parks and events, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is limiting some public access.

The Commission aims to protect its staff and customers by removing opportunities for crowds to gather at facilities and events and by maintaining clean facilities. To do so, the agency has taken the following steps:

-- All agency-sponsored events and activities scheduled through May 31 have been cancelled. This includes the Cornhusker Trap Shoot, National Archery in the Schools state tournament, hunter education classes, trainings and workshops, community fishing events, Outdoor Discovery Programs at Platte River State Park (SP) and Fort Kearny State Recreation Area (SRA, and the Fort Kearny Outdoor Expo.

-- The Omaha service center has been closed to public access until further notice. Customers may call the office at 402-595-2144 to get information or purchase permits. Permits and information also are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.5BplflQXKzcYGYc2HX9USkhWLzy8SoGWJF69MlFlOi4/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

-- Through May 31, the Schramm Education Center near Gretna, Eugene T. Mahoney SP Activity Facility near Ashland, Wildcat Hills Nature Center near Gering, Fort Kearny State Historical Park Visitor Center near Kearney, Two Rivers SRA service center near Waterloo, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center in Lincoln are closed to public walk-in access. Two Rivers SRA trout tags can be purchased at Iron Ranger locations near the trout lake.

-- All cancellations, postponements and closures are posted on the Commission’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.G62V7Gs6xuUCrwWKzGTqP0xV5hQBmPkXBNxzV1DRFG8/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>.

Commission headquarters in Lincoln, district offices in Alliance, North Platte and Norfolk, and service centers in Bassett and Kearney remain open to the public.

State parks, state recreation areas and state historical parks remain open for day use and camping. Purchase permits in advance of arrival at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.w7QL2D7f4jrlIQaERnIiHgoNu5m0fg3bgjZLwHsjs6A/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. Overnight lodging accommodations, cabins and lodge rooms, remain open. Reservations for lodging may be rescheduled or, in some cases, refunded. Guests should contact the parks reservation center accordingly.

All wildlife management areas also are open.

The Commission’s meeting in Hastings will be conducted as scheduled on March 20. View the modified agenda at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.2G8XEeZwRv5Fi5swDrVkDw0vRaRBJNYA3jUKEsezBq0/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

“The health and well-being of our staff and customers is our highest priority,” Commission Director Jim Douglas said. “We are being cautious during this ever-changing time, and we are committed to keeping staff and customers as safe as possible. At the same time, we want them to enjoy the state’s many outdoor opportunities.”

Nebraska’s state park areas and wildlife areas are open-space landscapes that offer tremendous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors this spring. Nebraska has the nation’s best turkey hunting opportunities, and the spring turkey season begins March 25. Trout are being stocked in lakes across the state this month, creating plenty of memory-making fishing opportunities with family and friends. In addition, hiking, biking, wildlife viewing and horseback riding all can be enjoyed at state park and wildlife areas.

LINCOLN, Neb. – In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at its facilities, parks and events, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is limiting some public access.The Commission aims to protect its staff and customers by removing opportunities for crowds to gather at facilities and events and by maintaining clean facilities. To do so, the agency has taken the following steps:-- All agency-sponsored events and activities scheduled through May 31 have been cancelled. This includes the Cornhusker Trap Shoot, National Archery in the Schools state tournament, hunter education classes, trainings and workshops, community fishing events, Outdoor Discovery Programs at Platte River State Park (SP) and Fort Kearny State Recreation Area (SRA, and the Fort Kearny Outdoor Expo.-- The Omaha service center has been closed to public access until further notice. Customers may call the office at 402-595-2144 to get information or purchase permits. Permits and information also are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.5BplflQXKzcYGYc2HX9USkhWLzy8SoGWJF69MlFlOi4/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.-- Through May 31, the Schramm Education Center near Gretna, Eugene T. Mahoney SP Activity Facility near Ashland, Wildcat Hills Nature Center near Gering, Fort Kearny State Historical Park Visitor Center near Kearney, Two Rivers SRA service center near Waterloo, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center in Lincoln are closed to public walk-in access. Two Rivers SRA trout tags can be purchased at Iron Ranger locations near the trout lake.-- All cancellations, postponements and closures are posted on the Commission’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.G62V7Gs6xuUCrwWKzGTqP0xV5hQBmPkXBNxzV1DRFG8/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>.Commission headquarters in Lincoln, district offices in Alliance, North Platte and Norfolk, and service centers in Bassett and Kearney remain open to the public.State parks, state recreation areas and state historical parks remain open for day use and camping. Purchase permits in advance of arrival at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.w7QL2D7f4jrlIQaERnIiHgoNu5m0fg3bgjZLwHsjs6A/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. Overnight lodging accommodations, cabins and lodge rooms, remain open. Reservations for lodging may be rescheduled or, in some cases, refunded. Guests should contact the parks reservation center accordingly.All wildlife management areas also are open.The Commission’s meeting in Hastings will be conducted as scheduled on March 20. View the modified agenda at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTYuMTg4MTg1NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.2G8XEeZwRv5Fi5swDrVkDw0vRaRBJNYA3jUKEsezBq0/br/76177612852-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.“The health and well-being of our staff and customers is our highest priority,” Commission Director Jim Douglas said. “We are being cautious during this ever-changing time, and we are committed to keeping staff and customers as safe as possible. At the same time, we want them to enjoy the state’s many outdoor opportunities.”Nebraska’s state park areas and wildlife areas are open-space landscapes that offer tremendous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors this spring. Nebraska has the nation’s best turkey hunting opportunities, and the spring turkey season begins March 25. Trout are being stocked in lakes across the state this month, creating plenty of memory-making fishing opportunities with family and friends. In addition, hiking, biking, wildlife viewing and horseback riding all can be enjoyed at state park and wildlife areas.

Game and Parks Commission takes measures to keep staff, public safe in response to virus

Due to coronavirus and Cozad Community Schools being closed, the staff will be at the Wilson Public Library 10-5 M-F, March 16-20, but the doors will be locked. If you need to renew items or would like to check out items and know the titles/formats of those items, please call us at 784-2019. We can round them up for you, check them out, and meet you at the door. Our card catalog can&nbsp;be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://wpl.follettdestiny.com/?fbclid=IwAR2cOW__7UQRDKNOUyHrhrb3mK3Kp1pxvzC-1QKtXUU9rd4l79VioHmxFGE" target="_blank">https://wpl.follettdestiny.com/</a>&nbsp;(click on Wilson Public Library for the catalog).

If you need to return items, please use the book drop on the north side of the building.

If you need essential services such as fax, copies, or computers (for unemployment benefits, for job applications, etc. NOT for checking Facebook, playing games, etc., we will let you in for a limited time if you call ahead.

All public programs are cancelled effective Monday through Friday, March 16-20, and then we will reevaluate. If you have a private meeting at the library scheduled this week, please call us ahead of the meeting to let you know if it is still on or not.

Please have patience with us as we tread unknown waters to keep our town and our staff safe.

News ReleaseDue to coronavirus and Cozad Community Schools being closed, the staff will be at the Wilson Public Library 10-5 M-F, March 16-20, but the doors will be locked. If you need to renew items or would like to check out items and know the titles/formats of those items, please call us at 784-2019. We can round them up for you, check them out, and meet you at the door. Our card catalog can&nbsp;be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://wpl.follettdestiny.com/?fbclid=IwAR2cOW__7UQRDKNOUyHrhrb3mK3Kp1pxvzC-1QKtXUU9rd4l79VioHmxFGE" target="_blank">https://wpl.follettdestiny.com/</a>&nbsp;(click on Wilson Public Library for the catalog).If you need to return items, please use the book drop on the north side of the building.If you need essential services such as fax, copies, or computers (for unemployment benefits, for job applications, etc. NOT for checking Facebook, playing games, etc., we will let you in for a limited time if you call ahead.All public programs are cancelled effective Monday through Friday, March 16-20, and then we will reevaluate. If you have a private meeting at the library scheduled this week, please call us ahead of the meeting to let you know if it is still on or not.Please have patience with us as we tread unknown waters to keep our town and our staff safe.

Wilson Public Library announces policy changes during virus outbreak

Story by Philip Senff, NPCC Sports Information Coordinator

The National Junior College Athletic Association has cancelled all spring competition. The announcement ends the 2020 season for the North Platte Community College softball team.

“In light of the progressive evolvement of the COVID-19 situation, the NJCAA has decided to end all competition for the remainder of the academic year,” stated Dr. Christopher Parker, NJCAA President &amp; CEO. “As an association, the NJCAA exhausted all possible avenues to potentially postpone competition for both upcoming basketball championships and spring sport competition. We believe following the recommendations of the CDC is in the best interest of our member colleges and our student-athletes.”

Spring competition includes all practices, regular season, postseason, and national championship play. Regarding eligibility for spring sports, no spring sport student-athlete who was enrolled at a member college in 2020 will be charged a year of participation.

For further updates please visit the North Platte Community College athletics web page at:

Story by Philip Senff, NPCC Sports Information CoordinatorThe National Junior College Athletic Association has cancelled all spring competition. The announcement ends the 2020 season for the North Platte Community College softball team.“In light of the progressive evolvement of the COVID-19 situation, the NJCAA has decided to end all competition for the remainder of the academic year,” stated Dr. Christopher Parker, NJCAA President &amp; CEO. “As an association, the NJCAA exhausted all possible avenues to potentially postpone competition for both upcoming basketball championships and spring sport competition. We believe following the recommendations of the CDC is in the best interest of our member colleges and our student-athletes.”Spring competition includes all practices, regular season, postseason, and national championship play. Regarding eligibility for spring sports, no spring sport student-athlete who was enrolled at a member college in 2020 will be charged a year of participation.For further updates please visit the North Platte Community College athletics web page at:https://npccknights.com/

NJCAA cancels all spring competition

LENEXA, Kan.-The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing an expanded list of EPA-registered disinfectant products that have qualified for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The list contains nearly 200 additional products—including 40 new products that went through the agency’s expedited review process. The agency also made key enhancements to the web-based list to improve its usefulness.“During this pandemic, it’s important that people can easily find the information they’re looking for when choosing and using a surface disinfectant,”&nbsp;said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.&nbsp;“With this expanded list, EPA is making sure Americans have greater access to as many effective and approved surface disinfectant products as possible and that they have the information at their fingertips to use them effectively.”While disinfectant products on this list have not been tested specifically against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, they are expected to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 because they have been tested and proven effective on either a harder-to-kill virus or against another human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.The product list has also been updated to include the product’s active ingredient and the amount of time the surface should remain wet to be effective against the given pathogen.To make the list more consumer friendly, information in the table is now sortable, searchable and printable, and can be easily viewed on a mobile device.These additions make it easier for consumers to find surface disinfectants and instructions for using them effectively against SARS-CoV-2.To view the list of EPA-registered disinfectant products, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUUj-2BMTyyMmYVvgX5f-2Fea6ZBAQ7nF3hwdrvvPEjxTQF5ildDx5hi909GuFhmkpbNaD0axtC1XbMOnnpaK8f12MJOm7595ZAyEYNSViAXHMpc2B6WT_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOg-2FbBul5H2tQaVp2tmURPs8yBynajgNc71vTuRkFrrnF0pyOw50CUJ-2FLdUm2-2FqsbhI1izf9DRBuVb-2BM4LpyMTlKjDOkBNbGJh8ZkNf7PvN3VhKRadd0qrrqtX73tTdPGT6MRdzgr9ga2tQEmSmHSPGAJ1coJ6gxo6F5Hv6t6LtwJoVaF3qvRKkYoq0EPtD3L65oS-2FD68D3kbNk-2FPf9lLVs6sUKknmRMlW7NE-2ByfuLCvOjxFQNgw9ybEVBBkKJLzkZY-3D" target="_blank">https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2</a>

News ReleaseLENEXA, Kan.-The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing an expanded list of EPA-registered disinfectant products that have qualified for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The list contains nearly 200 additional products—including 40 new products that went through the agency’s expedited review process. The agency also made key enhancements to the web-based list to improve its usefulness.“During this pandemic, it’s important that people can easily find the information they’re looking for when choosing and using a surface disinfectant,”&nbsp;said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.&nbsp;“With this expanded list, EPA is making sure Americans have greater access to as many effective and approved surface disinfectant products as possible and that they have the information at their fingertips to use them effectively.”While disinfectant products on this list have not been tested specifically against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, they are expected to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 because they have been tested and proven effective on either a harder-to-kill virus or against another human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.The product list has also been updated to include the product’s active ingredient and the amount of time the surface should remain wet to be effective against the given pathogen.To make the list more consumer friendly, information in the table is now sortable, searchable and printable, and can be easily viewed on a mobile device.These additions make it easier for consumers to find surface disinfectants and instructions for using them effectively against SARS-CoV-2.To view the list of EPA-registered disinfectant products, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUUj-2BMTyyMmYVvgX5f-2Fea6ZBAQ7nF3hwdrvvPEjxTQF5ildDx5hi909GuFhmkpbNaD0axtC1XbMOnnpaK8f12MJOm7595ZAyEYNSViAXHMpc2B6WT_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9qVFiew9AKCljxqzSssGaaTwkDbyYb-2F6h-2FlGffwI9EOg-2FbBul5H2tQaVp2tmURPs8yBynajgNc71vTuRkFrrnF0pyOw50CUJ-2FLdUm2-2FqsbhI1izf9DRBuVb-2BM4LpyMTlKjDOkBNbGJh8ZkNf7PvN3VhKRadd0qrrqtX73tTdPGT6MRdzgr9ga2tQEmSmHSPGAJ1coJ6gxo6F5Hv6t6LtwJoVaF3qvRKkYoq0EPtD3L65oS-2FD68D3kbNk-2FPf9lLVs6sUKknmRMlW7NE-2ByfuLCvOjxFQNgw9ybEVBBkKJLzkZY-3D" target="_blank">https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2</a>

EPA expands COVID-19 disinfectant list, adding nearly 200 additional products

With the recent global pandemic declaration by the World Health Organization and the President of the United States involving COVID-19, the North Platte Public Library intends to take realistic, responsible steps to ensure our continued ability to provide library service for the City of North Platte and Lincoln County. Public safety and the safety of our staff are our number one priority. At the direction of Library Director, Cecelia Lawrence, the following steps are to be implemented immediately to protect our workforce and the public, while ensuring continuity of operations during this impending crisis.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All public meeting room use is suspended until further notice. Meeting Room Reservations will not be taken for meeting rooms until after April 20, 2020.

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Library programming is suspended and will resume when deemed appropriate.

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Technology Learning Resource Center (computer center) will be closed at 3PM today (March 16, 2020) and resume hours when deemed appropriate.

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Creation Station Makerspace lab will be closed and will resume hours when deemed appropriate.

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home if you are sick. Practice regular hand washing and cleaning. Do not touch your face.

The North Platte Public Library will remain open to serve the needs of the public to the best of our ability and we will continue our online presence, including the online catalog and online databases, as well as access to Overdrive and RBdigital for eBooks and downloadable audio books.

Free wifi is accessible for those bringing in their own devices. We are monitoring this crisis closely and look forward to restoring normal operations.

News ReleaseWith the recent global pandemic declaration by the World Health Organization and the President of the United States involving COVID-19, the North Platte Public Library intends to take realistic, responsible steps to ensure our continued ability to provide library service for the City of North Platte and Lincoln County. Public safety and the safety of our staff are our number one priority. At the direction of Library Director, Cecelia Lawrence, the following steps are to be implemented immediately to protect our workforce and the public, while ensuring continuity of operations during this impending crisis.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All public meeting room use is suspended until further notice. Meeting Room Reservations will not be taken for meeting rooms until after April 20, 2020.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Library programming is suspended and will resume when deemed appropriate.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Technology Learning Resource Center (computer center) will be closed at 3PM today (March 16, 2020) and resume hours when deemed appropriate.4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Creation Station Makerspace lab will be closed and will resume hours when deemed appropriate.5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home if you are sick. Practice regular hand washing and cleaning. Do not touch your face.The North Platte Public Library will remain open to serve the needs of the public to the best of our ability and we will continue our online presence, including the online catalog and online databases, as well as access to Overdrive and RBdigital for eBooks and downloadable audio books.Free wifi is accessible for those bringing in their own devices. We are monitoring this crisis closely and look forward to restoring normal operations.

North Platte Public Library announces changes amid coronavirus outbreak

LINCOLN –&nbsp;This morning, Governor Pete Ricketts met with cabinet members at the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC, as he unveiled new guidance further limiting public events and gatherings. &nbsp;

“We are updating Nebraska’s guidance for closures and event sizes to align with new guidance issued by the CDC late yesterday,” said Governor Ricketts.

Updates to event size and closure guidance that are effective immediately include:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public events and gatherings are limited to 50 people or less statewide.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants will move to takeout only on a regional basis when:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;A second community transmission case is confirmed in the Omaha area.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;1-2 confirmed community transmission cases in Lincoln.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;1 confirmed community transmission case for other Nebraska communities and Nebraska’s Educational Service Units.

At present, one community transmission case has been reported in the state.

The role of the SEOC is to track cancellations and closures across the state, respond to any requests for assistance from local emergency managers, and develop a common operating picture to keep local officials aware of the evolving situation.

The updated guidance on public events and gatherings can be read by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/lcep1e0siuo3kdj/COVID-19%20Events%2C%20Public%20Gatherings%2C%20and%20Schools%20Guidance%203.16.2020.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

News ReleaseLINCOLN –&nbsp;This morning, Governor Pete Ricketts met with cabinet members at the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC, as he unveiled new guidance further limiting public events and gatherings. &nbsp;“We are updating Nebraska’s guidance for closures and event sizes to align with new guidance issued by the CDC late yesterday,” said Governor Ricketts.Updates to event size and closure guidance that are effective immediately include:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Public events and gatherings are limited to 50 people or less statewide.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants will move to takeout only on a regional basis when:o&nbsp;&nbsp;A second community transmission case is confirmed in the Omaha area.o&nbsp;&nbsp;1-2 confirmed community transmission cases in Lincoln.o&nbsp;&nbsp;1 confirmed community transmission case for other Nebraska communities and Nebraska’s Educational Service Units.At present, one community transmission case has been reported in the state.The role of the SEOC is to track cancellations and closures across the state, respond to any requests for assistance from local emergency managers, and develop a common operating picture to keep local officials aware of the evolving situation.The updated guidance on public events and gatherings can be read by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/lcep1e0siuo3kdj/COVID-19%20Events%2C%20Public%20Gatherings%2C%20and%20Schools%20Guidance%203.16.2020.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Coronavirus Update