Lincoln –&nbsp;Two presumptive positive cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). One is a man in his 50s and the other is a woman in her 60s. Both of them are from Douglas County and both of them traveled recently.

The Douglas County Health Department has initiated a close contact investigation to identify people who came into close contact to help prevent further spread. All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.

You can find further information on the Douglas County Health Department’s website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9sYXRlc3QtbmV3cyJ9.pR7YITG48C3upEI_M3QYwD1OFtHJw5yMJRGUBUMuVkE%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099654563&amp;sdata=5SYu7GIGHtVjzektVTtVcLZG%2Fg8JIYx27btv1h7WGsw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>

Public health partners across the state continue to take action to protect the health of Nebraskans.

Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.

People in these higher-risk groups should:

Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.miT48fjPWZB00oHML-zrXqbslkr3oNDw75FW5Lpp88o%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099659535&amp;sdata=KIHVUeKLlXKmVCXrEgIcxkmf2iKtWeREzG2dz3cNRcA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.557QUQIVAUU5sFle4ghqxB0Z00sJNDs52q32Fsh4OM4%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099664513&amp;sdata=rHus7N3pZ3b3Hqs7Jh%2Bb8GdD2d7uJHSzC0FMoRI1Z0k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.80fWRKiyqYG7YxAuZ4ZD4D63hD0O3215rhcWglR7q-8%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099669494&amp;sdata=tHOZdksVg1D2tO5f909064%2FJp9m3iwqhJjTUrRpPVic%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Lincoln –&nbsp;Two presumptive positive cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). One is a man in his 50s and the other is a woman in her 60s. Both of them are from Douglas County and both of them traveled recently.The Douglas County Health Department has initiated a close contact investigation to identify people who came into close contact to help prevent further spread. All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.You can find further information on the Douglas County Health Department’s website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9sYXRlc3QtbmV3cyJ9.pR7YITG48C3upEI_M3QYwD1OFtHJw5yMJRGUBUMuVkE%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099654563&amp;sdata=5SYu7GIGHtVjzektVTtVcLZG%2Fg8JIYx27btv1h7WGsw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>Public health partners across the state continue to take action to protect the health of Nebraskans.Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.People in these higher-risk groups should:<ol>
 <li>Stock up on supplies, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li>Avoid crowds as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.miT48fjPWZB00oHML-zrXqbslkr3oNDw75FW5Lpp88o%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099659535&amp;sdata=KIHVUeKLlXKmVCXrEgIcxkmf2iKtWeREzG2dz3cNRcA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.557QUQIVAUU5sFle4ghqxB0Z00sJNDs52q32Fsh4OM4%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099664513&amp;sdata=rHus7N3pZ3b3Hqs7Jh%2Bb8GdD2d7uJHSzC0FMoRI1Z0k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTMuMTg3MTgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.80fWRKiyqYG7YxAuZ4ZD4D63hD0O3215rhcWglR7q-8%2Fbr%2F76105971286-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ceb1d801b528148fb27a708d7c792adb6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637197305099669494&amp;sdata=tHOZdksVg1D2tO5f909064%2FJp9m3iwqhJjTUrRpPVic%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

DHHS: 2 new COVID-19 cases reported in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association issued statements expressing confidence in the state’s food supply chain.

“Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers help feed the world,” said Governor Ricketts.&nbsp; “We have a very secure supply chain, and we are examining steps to ensure that products move quickly.&nbsp; Nebraskans should make sure they have their prescription medications, and two weeks of food and water on hand.&nbsp; As Nebraskans heed calls to prepare for coronavirus, we know that some products are being purchased faster than they can be restocked.&nbsp; Please be patient as our business owners work around the clock to keep operations moving.”

“Grocery stores are open for business,” said Kathy Siefken, Executive Director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association.&nbsp; “While some food products are being purchased faster than they can be restocked, there is no food shortage.&nbsp; Grocery stores receive multiple trucks every day to restock the food items that have been sold.&nbsp; Warehouses are full of food.&nbsp; There is a shortage of paper products and household chemicals and the supply chain continues to work on these issues.&nbsp; There is no food shortage but there is a lag time between shelves being cleared by consumers and trucks delivering food the next day.”

News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association issued statements expressing confidence in the state’s food supply chain.“Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers help feed the world,” said Governor Ricketts.&nbsp; “We have a very secure supply chain, and we are examining steps to ensure that products move quickly.&nbsp; Nebraskans should make sure they have their prescription medications, and two weeks of food and water on hand.&nbsp; As Nebraskans heed calls to prepare for coronavirus, we know that some products are being purchased faster than they can be restocked.&nbsp; Please be patient as our business owners work around the clock to keep operations moving.”“Grocery stores are open for business,” said Kathy Siefken, Executive Director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association.&nbsp; “While some food products are being purchased faster than they can be restocked, there is no food shortage.&nbsp; Grocery stores receive multiple trucks every day to restock the food items that have been sold.&nbsp; Warehouses are full of food.&nbsp; There is a shortage of paper products and household chemicals and the supply chain continues to work on these issues.&nbsp; There is no food shortage but there is a lag time between shelves being cleared by consumers and trucks delivering food the next day.”

Gov. Ricketts, Nebraska grocers express confidence in supply chain

The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) has confirmed two additional cases of COVID-19 in Douglas County residents. These latest individuals to become sick are a man in his 50s and a woman in her 60s. Both of them traveled recently.

DCHD epidemiologists are tracing the contacts of these individuals in our on-going efforts to contain this disease.

“The positive news is that our latest cases also are travel-related,” stated Health Director Dr. Adi Pour. “We continue our extraordinary efforts to prevent community spread.”

The Health Department is asking the public to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The best way to slow the spread of this disease is to wash your hands often, avoid sick people, don’t touch your face, and stay home if you are sick. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use your sleeve if you cough or sneeze.

The Douglas County Health Department also is encouraging businesses, schools and the general public to consider the practice of Social Distancing - a Public Health tool that has been successfully used to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.

The idea is to reduce the opportunities for people to gather and potentially share the infection. The goal is to slow or stop the spread of the disease. This can involve limiting large gathering, closing buildings, and canceling or postponing events. This is especially important for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions to avoid large crowds. These are the individuals who are most at risk from COVID-19.

COVID-19 symptoms include a fever, a cough or trouble breathing. If you develop symptoms, you should contact your health care provider and inform them of the exposure. Please call ahead before you visit a doctor’s office or a waiting room.

Douglas County Health Department’s COVID-19 Information Line is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (402) 444-3400 to answer general questions about this new disease. The line is answered in English and Spanish. The United Way’s 2-1-1 information line is also taking calls when the DCHD line is closed.

The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) has confirmed two additional cases of COVID-19 in Douglas County residents. These latest individuals to become sick are a man in his 50s and a woman in her 60s. Both of them traveled recently.DCHD epidemiologists are tracing the contacts of these individuals in our on-going efforts to contain this disease.“The positive news is that our latest cases also are travel-related,” stated Health Director Dr. Adi Pour. “We continue our extraordinary efforts to prevent community spread.”The Health Department is asking the public to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The best way to slow the spread of this disease is to wash your hands often, avoid sick people, don’t touch your face, and stay home if you are sick. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use your sleeve if you cough or sneeze.The Douglas County Health Department also is encouraging businesses, schools and the general public to consider the practice of Social Distancing - a Public Health tool that has been successfully used to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.The idea is to reduce the opportunities for people to gather and potentially share the infection. The goal is to slow or stop the spread of the disease. This can involve limiting large gathering, closing buildings, and canceling or postponing events. This is especially important for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions to avoid large crowds. These are the individuals who are most at risk from COVID-19.COVID-19 symptoms include a fever, a cough or trouble breathing. If you develop symptoms, you should contact your health care provider and inform them of the exposure. Please call ahead before you visit a doctor’s office or a waiting room.Douglas County Health Department’s COVID-19 Information Line is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (402) 444-3400 to answer general questions about this new disease. The line is answered in English and Spanish. The United Way’s 2-1-1 information line is also taking calls when the DCHD line is closed.

2 more cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Douglas County

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Students at Mid-Plains Community College will have an extended spring break thanks to the coronavirus outbreak.

MPCC President Ryan Purdy issued the following statement:

In an effort to assist in the&nbsp;mitigation of&nbsp;the spread of COVID-19 in the communities within our service area, Mid-Plains Community College is taking the following precautions to protect our students, staff, and the communities we serve.&nbsp; MPCC will hold classes as scheduled next week, March 16-20.&nbsp; At the close of next week, MPCC will be on an extended spring break for the two weeks beginning Sunday, March 22 – Saturday, April 4.&nbsp; Online classes will continue as scheduled.&nbsp; Faculty will return to campus on March 30 to prepare to adjust their courses to a remote education delivery format where possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;When classes resume on Sunday, April 5, most courses will have been moved to a remote education delivery format. Applied tech courses and other courses with required labs will resume on campus. There will be some exceptions based on certain programs so students are encouraged to communicate with their instructors about the adjusted expectations and format of their courses moving forward.&nbsp;

Dual credit and early entry students taking courses at one of MPCC's campuses should check with their college instructors on upcoming changes.&nbsp; Students taking courses at high school locations should continue to follow their high school schedules.&nbsp;

Scheduled on-campus events are on an event-by-event basis dependent on the size of the anticipated audience for each event and the final decision to proceed, postpone, or cancel will be made by the appropriate Vice President in conjunction with the President.&nbsp; North Platte PTK Induction, scheduled for Sunday, and North Platte Inter-High Day, scheduled for next Wednesday, March 18, have been canceled. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Residence halls, food service, student services, and all other college functions will continue to operate and serve those students remaining on campus.&nbsp; MPCC will provide student services to students in a virtual environment for advising, registration, etc.&nbsp;

Intercollegiate athletes will continue to participate in competitions as long as the NJCAA and Region IX continue to hold competitions.&nbsp; All athletic facilities will be accessible by college for-credit students only and will be closed to the general public effective immediately. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Out-of-state travel for college-related business will be suspended until further notice.&nbsp;

Academic Affairs– Dr. Jody Tomanek –&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tomanekj@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">tomanekj@mpcc.edu</a>

Student Affairs – Kelly Rippen –&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rippenK@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">rippenK@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Student Life – Dr. Brian Obert (MCC)&nbsp;<a href="mailto:obertb@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">obertb@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or Dr. Pat Beu (NPCC)&nbsp;<a href="mailto:beup@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">beup@mpcc.edu</a>

Human Resources – Rebecca Wrage&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wrager@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">wrager@mpcc.edu</a>

General Operations – Mike Steele&nbsp;<a href="mailto:steelem@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">steelem@mpcc.edu</a>

We are continuously working to provide updates to our general public on our website.&nbsp; Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/">www.mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;for those updates.&nbsp; You'll also be receiving emails internally as we navigate and adjust internal procedures during this time.&nbsp;

This plan is continuing to evolve and is subject to change as needed. &nbsp;We appreciate everyone's patience as we do our best to communicate and adjust our strategy keeping everyone's health, safety, and well-being in mind.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Students at Mid-Plains Community College will have an extended spring break thanks to the coronavirus outbreak.MPCC President Ryan Purdy issued the following statement:In an effort to assist in the&nbsp;mitigation of&nbsp;the spread of COVID-19 in the communities within our service area, Mid-Plains Community College is taking the following precautions to protect our students, staff, and the communities we serve.&nbsp; MPCC will hold classes as scheduled next week, March 16-20.&nbsp; At the close of next week, MPCC will be on an extended spring break for the two weeks beginning Sunday, March 22 – Saturday, April 4.&nbsp; Online classes will continue as scheduled.&nbsp; Faculty will return to campus on March 30 to prepare to adjust their courses to a remote education delivery format where possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;When classes resume on Sunday, April 5, most courses will have been moved to a remote education delivery format. Applied tech courses and other courses with required labs will resume on campus. There will be some exceptions based on certain programs so students are encouraged to communicate with their instructors about the adjusted expectations and format of their courses moving forward.&nbsp;Dual credit and early entry students taking courses at one of MPCC's campuses should check with their college instructors on upcoming changes.&nbsp; Students taking courses at high school locations should continue to follow their high school schedules.&nbsp;Scheduled on-campus events are on an event-by-event basis dependent on the size of the anticipated audience for each event and the final decision to proceed, postpone, or cancel will be made by the appropriate Vice President in conjunction with the President.&nbsp; North Platte PTK Induction, scheduled for Sunday, and North Platte Inter-High Day, scheduled for next Wednesday, March 18, have been canceled. &nbsp;&nbsp;Residence halls, food service, student services, and all other college functions will continue to operate and serve those students remaining on campus.&nbsp; MPCC will provide student services to students in a virtual environment for advising, registration, etc.&nbsp;Intercollegiate athletes will continue to participate in competitions as long as the NJCAA and Region IX continue to hold competitions.&nbsp; All athletic facilities will be accessible by college for-credit students only and will be closed to the general public effective immediately. &nbsp;&nbsp;Out-of-state travel for college-related business will be suspended until further notice.&nbsp;Questions may be directed as follows:Academic Affairs– Dr. Jody Tomanek –&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tomanekj@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">tomanekj@mpcc.edu</a>Student Affairs – Kelly Rippen –&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rippenK@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">rippenK@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Student Life – Dr. Brian Obert (MCC)&nbsp;<a href="mailto:obertb@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">obertb@mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;or Dr. Pat Beu (NPCC)&nbsp;<a href="mailto:beup@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">beup@mpcc.edu</a>Human Resources – Rebecca Wrage&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wrager@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">wrager@mpcc.edu</a>General Operations – Mike Steele&nbsp;<a href="mailto:steelem@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">steelem@mpcc.edu</a>We are continuously working to provide updates to our general public on our website.&nbsp; Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/">www.mpcc.edu</a>&nbsp;for those updates.&nbsp; You'll also be receiving emails internally as we navigate and adjust internal procedures during this time.&nbsp;This plan is continuing to evolve and is subject to change as needed. &nbsp;We appreciate everyone's patience as we do our best to communicate and adjust our strategy keeping everyone's health, safety, and well-being in mind.

MPCC to have 'extended spring break' due to coronavirus, classes to move online

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Ricketts laid out the State of Nebraska's plan when it comes to the closure of schools and banning of large gatherings amid the coronavirus outbreak.

At a news conference Friday morning, Ricketts said that there are currently 13 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Nebraska, all of them travel related. Ricketts said "community spread" is of the utmost concern to state officials, but at this point, there are no cases of community spread in the state.&nbsp; Ricketts described community spread as cases where the exposure to the virus cannot be identified.

Ricketts said the virus spreads easily through coughing and reminded residents to take normal precautions such as washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes.

When it comes to school closures in the state, Ricketts said that when one percent of the population has the virus, from community spread, schools in the state will be closed for six to eight weeks.

Ricketts added that each individual Educational Service Unit in the state, as well as the school districts can be more conservative when it comes to closing schools, but the threshold for the state is a one percent infection rate from community spread. That threshold has not been met.

Ricketts was joined by state and local health and education officials.

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Ricketts laid out the State of Nebraska's plan when it comes to the closure of schools and banning of large gatherings amid the coronavirus outbreak.At a news conference Friday morning, Ricketts said that there are currently 13 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Nebraska, all of them travel related. Ricketts said "community spread" is of the utmost concern to state officials, but at this point, there are no cases of community spread in the state.&nbsp; Ricketts described community spread as cases where the exposure to the virus cannot be identified.Ricketts said the virus spreads easily through coughing and reminded residents to take normal precautions such as washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes.When it comes to school closures in the state, Ricketts said that when one percent of the population has the virus, from community spread, schools in the state will be closed for six to eight weeks.Ricketts added that each individual Educational Service Unit in the state, as well as the school districts can be more conservative when it comes to closing schools, but the threshold for the state is a one percent infection rate from community spread. That threshold has not been met.Ricketts was joined by state and local health and education officials.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D4nHei78-oQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Governor Ricketts: Schools will close for 6 to 8 weeks when one percent of population has virus

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's two largest public school districts are joining others in closing buildings and shuttering classes to reduce the risk of a coronavirus outbreak.

Omaha Public Schools officials said the district will close its schools next week, but will provide students with work-at-home packets and online instruction for the week. The district's more than 53,000 students were off this week for the regularly-scheduled spring break.

Lincoln Public Schools, with more than 42,000 students, also announced Friday it also will close next week, as did Westside Community Schools in Omaha and Omaha Catholic Schools.

Several other Omaha-area schools announced closure plans Friday and all of next week, including Bellevue Public Schools, Elkhorn Public Schools, Millard Public Schools and Papillion La Vista Community Schools.

For most people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">the new coronavirus</a>&nbsp;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.

Most people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.

<a href="https://apnews.com/8eedae643cbc47a459ce9b8aabf661bd" target="_blank">Thirteen cases</a>&nbsp;had been reported in Nebraska as of Friday afternoon.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's two largest public school districts are joining others in closing buildings and shuttering classes to reduce the risk of a coronavirus outbreak.Omaha Public Schools officials said the district will close its schools next week, but will provide students with work-at-home packets and online instruction for the week. The district's more than 53,000 students were off this week for the regularly-scheduled spring break.Lincoln Public Schools, with more than 42,000 students, also announced Friday it also will close next week, as did Westside Community Schools in Omaha and Omaha Catholic Schools.Several other Omaha-area schools announced closure plans Friday and all of next week, including Bellevue Public Schools, Elkhorn Public Schools, Millard Public Schools and Papillion La Vista Community Schools.For most people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">the new coronavirus</a>&nbsp;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.Most people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.<a href="https://apnews.com/8eedae643cbc47a459ce9b8aabf661bd" target="_blank">Thirteen cases</a>&nbsp;had been reported in Nebraska as of Friday afternoon.

Nebraska's largest school district to close over coronavirus

Scotty C and Amanda from the American Red Cross discuss the organizations response to the coronavirus and how it is impacting blood donation.

Scotty C and Amanda from the American Red Cross discuss the organizations response to the coronavirus and how it is impacting blood donation.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/775494982&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe></div>

Post Podcast: American Red Cross Response to Coronavirus

During a Thursday evening news conference, Governor Laura Kelly reported that Kansas has the first death due to coronavirus.

The victim was a man in his 70s from Wyandotte County.

Governor Laura Kelly has also issued an emergency declaration for the State of Kansas in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus).&nbsp; The declaration authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria.

"The safety and well-being of Kansans is our priority, first and foremost," Kelly said. "The landscape of COVID-19 is fast-changing. Today is evidence of that."

Tonight, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced the first COVID-19 related death in Kansas. A man in his 70s was brought to the hospital and died shortly after arrival. Testing done post-mortem came back positive for COVID-19. He was living in a long-term care facility in Wyandotte County.

"We are working on identifying contacts right now," Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. "We understand the concern and encourage Kansans to remain vigilant."

"To prevent the spread of COVID-19 to our most vulnerable population, it's important to follow the recommended guidelines of screening and restricting visitors to our long-term care facilities," Department for Children and Families and Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard said.&nbsp;

The Governor issued the emergency declaration Thursday afternoon. &nbsp;

"Our state is well prepared," Kelly said. "With this emergency declaration we can activate our response and coordinate fully. This is part of the process and will make access to important resources more accessible. We continue to work closely with our local, state and federal partners to respond to the potential spread of the virus - or any situation that may arise."

COVID-19 can be found at the following sources:

If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.

You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE's website and Frequently Asked Questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=3u0ejmwwe6q32%2FMk1f1hi2CpVhRMT1RCrMQUZEQ5VOk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=ykRqpB1cCOCWVqlTcEU4NWYLXl6%2BwvCuIZJi0VAHgro%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas health officials say they have identified three new cases of the coronavirus, making four cases in the state. Mary Beverly, the interim director of the Johnson County Health Department, says the cases are three men between the ages of 35 and 65 who all attended a conference in Florida. 

Beverly says the men did not have symptoms until after they returned from the conference and they are not seriously ill. The announcement comes after the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Emporia State University joined colleges across the country in shifting classes online to mitigate the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is confirming three presumptive-positive cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. The possible cases were identified with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories (KHEL). KHEL, which is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to perform COVID-19 testing, found presumptive-positive results. These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as a positive unless determined otherwise.

The cases are in Johnson County and involve three people who attended the same conference in Florida. It is believed they contracted COVID-19 in Florida.&nbsp; They were not symptomatic when traveling home and sought care once they began feeling ill. KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patients are all males and in isolation. These cases are not connected to the earlier case in Johnson County. No other information will be provided about the patients.

“Right now, there is no community spread,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “The cases in Kansas are here because of transmission elsewhere. However, Kansans should remain vigilant. It’s important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”

“Kansas is working alongside local and federal public health partners in addressing presumptive positive cases in our state, and the potential spread of the virus,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “It is our highest priority to keep all Kansans healthy and safe. Everyone should continue to practice safe habits such as hand washing and staying home when sick. The KDHE website, www.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fkdheks.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477178260&amp;sdata=3ZsIvAC9n9u%2FdowCO%2FQmie2VBJ0U6uMWZFKkqkDiw2k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kdheks.gov</a>, has daily updates and other resources to keep Kansans educated on COVID-19."

People should exercise vigilance when attending large public gatherings, particularly those people over age 60 and those with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions. There are mass events guidance documents from the Centers from Disease Control available on KDHE’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477188217&amp;sdata=V5ag3QGvNXe5jpJ2ghFTJeaOx%2BYIdAqqRd%2Bi4jpiSrY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>.

You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/ and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

During a Thursday evening news conference, Governor Laura Kelly reported that Kansas has the first death due to coronavirus.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F529643674624712%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The victim was a man in his 70s from Wyandotte County.Governor Laura Kelly has also issued an emergency declaration for the State of Kansas in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus).&nbsp; The declaration authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria."The safety and well-being of Kansans is our priority, first and foremost," Kelly said. "The landscape of COVID-19 is fast-changing. Today is evidence of that."Tonight, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced the first COVID-19 related death in Kansas. A man in his 70s was brought to the hospital and died shortly after arrival. Testing done post-mortem came back positive for COVID-19. He was living in a long-term care facility in Wyandotte County."We are working on identifying contacts right now," Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. "We understand the concern and encourage Kansans to remain vigilant.""To prevent the spread of COVID-19 to our most vulnerable population, it's important to follow the recommended guidelines of screening and restricting visitors to our long-term care facilities," Department for Children and Families and Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard said.&nbsp;The Governor issued the emergency declaration Thursday afternoon. &nbsp;"Our state is well prepared," Kelly said. "With this emergency declaration we can activate our response and coordinate fully. This is part of the process and will make access to important resources more accessible. We continue to work closely with our local, state and federal partners to respond to the potential spread of the virus - or any situation that may arise."COVID-19 can be found at the following sources:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891596507&amp;sdata=80eCy5q8uxHf%2Fjc3lC8iNJEoqGtWCDaC0N%2F8PpldB08%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891606463&amp;sdata=2bh6QxhCkh9jOxgHw8bJiF9cFqHiYVnnY1M7abCB8IA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.who.int%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891606463&amp;sdata=IVwTAAwt0Clz6a9wJiKtyC0GDBlS0LTIHY0tNBYlrTY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a></li>
 </ol>If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE's website and Frequently Asked Questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=3u0ejmwwe6q32%2FMk1f1hi2CpVhRMT1RCrMQUZEQ5VOk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=ykRqpB1cCOCWVqlTcEU4NWYLXl6%2BwvCuIZJi0VAHgro%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas health officials say they have identified three new cases of the coronavirus, making four cases in the state. Mary Beverly, the interim director of the Johnson County Health Department, says the cases are three men between the ages of 35 and 65 who all attended a conference in Florida. Beverly says the men did not have symptoms until after they returned from the conference and they are not seriously ill. The announcement comes after the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Emporia State University joined colleges across the country in shifting classes online to mitigate the spread of the virus.&nbsp;-------------The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is confirming three presumptive-positive cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. The possible cases were identified with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories (KHEL). KHEL, which is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to perform COVID-19 testing, found presumptive-positive results. These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as a positive unless determined otherwise.The cases are in Johnson County and involve three people who attended the same conference in Florida. It is believed they contracted COVID-19 in Florida.&nbsp; They were not symptomatic when traveling home and sought care once they began feeling ill. KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patients are all males and in isolation. These cases are not connected to the earlier case in Johnson County. No other information will be provided about the patients.“Right now, there is no community spread,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “The cases in Kansas are here because of transmission elsewhere. However, Kansans should remain vigilant. It’s important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”“Kansas is working alongside local and federal public health partners in addressing presumptive positive cases in our state, and the potential spread of the virus,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “It is our highest priority to keep all Kansans healthy and safe. Everyone should continue to practice safe habits such as hand washing and staying home when sick. The KDHE website, www.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fkdheks.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477178260&amp;sdata=3ZsIvAC9n9u%2FdowCO%2FQmie2VBJ0U6uMWZFKkqkDiw2k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kdheks.gov</a>, has daily updates and other resources to keep Kansans educated on COVID-19."People should exercise vigilance when attending large public gatherings, particularly those people over age 60 and those with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions. There are mass events guidance documents from the Centers from Disease Control available on KDHE’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477188217&amp;sdata=V5ag3QGvNXe5jpJ2ghFTJeaOx%2BYIdAqqRd%2Bi4jpiSrY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>.If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/ and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

🎥 Kan. reports 1st coronavirus death; governor declares emergency

OMAHA, Neb.-Berkshire Hathaway has made an unprecedented decision to postpone the annual meeting for shareholders.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Berkshire Hathaway chairman Warren Buffett told shareholders Friday that they won't be allowed to physically attend the company's May 2 annual meeting in Omaha because of the coronavirus threat.

Buffett said in a statement that he regrets having to take the step because the annual meeting has been a high point for decades for him and his business partner, Charlie Munger.

"It is now clear, however, that large gatherings can pose a health threat to the participants and the greater community. We won't ask this of our employees and we won't expose Omaha to the possibility of becoming a hot spot'' in the current pandemic," he said.

The news came as the state reported that the 11th Nebraska resident - a man in his 50s from Cass County - had tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. The man recently flew back to Nebraska from Minnesota on the same connecting flight as the woman who is Nebraska's first case of COVID-19. The man has been self-isolating at his home since last Saturday, the Nebraska Health and Human Services Department said in a news release Thursday night.

Also Friday, Mutual of Omaha reported that its Omaha headquarters was closed for the day because a worker had tested positive. The employee began to feel ill Thursday and left work to seek medical attention, company spokesman Jim Nolan said.

Contractors are giving the building a deep cleaning and the goal is to reopen it Monday, Nolan said. About 4,200 people work there, and those who came in contact with the employee were advised to self-isolate.

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 case recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe cases may take three to six weeks to get better. The vast majority of people recover from the virus,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a4fa4834ff99d14b50434504370505d9" target="_blank">which has infected</a>&nbsp;more than 137,000 people worldwide and has killed more than 5,000.

Losing the Berkshire event, which has been dubbed the "Woodstock for capitalists," was another economic blow to the Omaha area. It typically attracts about 40,000 people from around the world.

The city learned Thursday that the NCAA had canceled the College World Series, among other tournaments and competitions. Omaha has hosted the baseball championship every year since 1950, and officials have said it has a $70 million annual impact on the local economy. This year's event was scheduled for June 13-24.

The Berkshire meeting will be broadcast online by Yahoo Finance. Buffett also said the special events that occur each year have been canceled as well.

Warren Buffet sent the following message to shareholders:

To the Shareholders of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.:

Events have moved very fast since Berkshire issued its annual report on February 22.

The annual meeting will be held at 3:45 p.m. on May 2nd as scheduled. However, we will not be able to allow shareholders to physically attend the meeting, and all special events are canceled.

I very much regret this action; for many decades the annual meeting has been a high point of the year for me and my partner, Charlie Munger.

It is now clear, however, that large gatherings can pose a health threat to the participants and the greater community. We won't ask this of our employees and we won't expose Omaha to the possibility of becoming a "hot spot" in the current pandemic. Therefore, we will limit attendance to me, possibly Charlie, and several Berkshire employees who will deliver proxy votes.

It's possible that one or more of the journalists that we listed on page A-2 of the 2019 annual report will be present to ask some of the questions submitted to them. We are deferring a decision on this matter, but encourage you to continue to send your questions to them.

Yahoo has confirmed that it will stream the meeting. They have provided great coverage in the past, and you can watch what takes place in Omaha from your armchair.

Charlie and I will miss you, but we will see many thousands of you next year.

OMAHA, Neb.-Berkshire Hathaway has made an unprecedented decision to postpone the annual meeting for shareholders.OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Berkshire Hathaway chairman Warren Buffett told shareholders Friday that they won't be allowed to physically attend the company's May 2 annual meeting in Omaha because of the coronavirus threat.Buffett said in a statement that he regrets having to take the step because the annual meeting has been a high point for decades for him and his business partner, Charlie Munger."It is now clear, however, that large gatherings can pose a health threat to the participants and the greater community. We won't ask this of our employees and we won't expose Omaha to the possibility of becoming a hot spot'' in the current pandemic," he said.The news came as the state reported that the 11th Nebraska resident - a man in his 50s from Cass County - had tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. The man recently flew back to Nebraska from Minnesota on the same connecting flight as the woman who is Nebraska's first case of COVID-19. The man has been self-isolating at his home since last Saturday, the Nebraska Health and Human Services Department said in a news release Thursday night.Also Friday, Mutual of Omaha reported that its Omaha headquarters was closed for the day because a worker had tested positive. The employee began to feel ill Thursday and left work to seek medical attention, company spokesman Jim Nolan said.Contractors are giving the building a deep cleaning and the goal is to reopen it Monday, Nolan said. About 4,200 people work there, and those who came in contact with the employee were advised to self-isolate.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 case recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe cases may take three to six weeks to get better. The vast majority of people recover from the virus,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a4fa4834ff99d14b50434504370505d9" target="_blank">which has infected</a>&nbsp;more than 137,000 people worldwide and has killed more than 5,000.Losing the Berkshire event, which has been dubbed the "Woodstock for capitalists," was another economic blow to the Omaha area. It typically attracts about 40,000 people from around the world.The city learned Thursday that the NCAA had canceled the College World Series, among other tournaments and competitions. Omaha has hosted the baseball championship every year since 1950, and officials have said it has a $70 million annual impact on the local economy. This year's event was scheduled for June 13-24.The Berkshire meeting will be broadcast online by Yahoo Finance. Buffett also said the special events that occur each year have been canceled as well.Warren Buffet sent the following message to shareholders:To the Shareholders of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.:Events have moved very fast since Berkshire issued its annual report on February 22.The annual meeting will be held at 3:45 p.m. on May 2nd as scheduled. However, we will not be able to allow shareholders to physically attend the meeting, and all special events are canceled.I very much regret this action; for many decades the annual meeting has been a high point of the year for me and my partner, Charlie Munger.It is now clear, however, that large gatherings can pose a health threat to the participants and the greater community. We won't ask this of our employees and we won't expose Omaha to the possibility of becoming a "hot spot" in the current pandemic. Therefore, we will limit attendance to me, possibly Charlie, and several Berkshire employees who will deliver proxy votes.It's possible that one or more of the journalists that we listed on page A-2 of the 2019 annual report will be present to ask some of the questions submitted to them. We are deferring a decision on this matter, but encourage you to continue to send your questions to them.Yahoo has confirmed that it will stream the meeting. They have provided great coverage in the past, and you can watch what takes place in Omaha from your armchair.Charlie and I will miss you, but we will see many thousands of you next year.Thanks for your understanding,Warren E. Buffett

Berkshire Hathaway postpones annual shareholders meeting over coronavirus fears

LINCOLN –&nbsp;The 11th&nbsp;presumptive positive case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).&nbsp;DHHS is awaiting final confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The person is a man in his 50s from Cass County. He recently traveled back to Nebraska from Minneapolis and was on the same connecting flight as the person who is Nebraska's first case. He has been self-isolating at home since March 7.&nbsp;

Contact investigations are underway and the Sarpy/Cass Health Department with assistance from DHHS is rapidly assessing potential exposures to determine next steps.

All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.&nbsp;

People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;

Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;

Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://icm-tracking.meltwater.com/link.php?DynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7c01%7ckhalilah.legrand%40nebraska.gov%7c7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637185219636880975&amp;sdata=9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%2BuB%2B02JIhXlYFdLQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://icm-tracking.meltwater.com/link.php?DynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7c01%7ckhalilah.legrand%40nebraska.gov%7c7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637185219636880975&amp;sdata=9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%2BuB%2B02JIhXlYFdLQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;The 11th&nbsp;presumptive positive case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).&nbsp;DHHS is awaiting final confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).The person is a man in his 50s from Cass County. He recently traveled back to Nebraska from Minneapolis and was on the same connecting flight as the person who is Nebraska's first case. He has been self-isolating at home since March 7.&nbsp;Contact investigations are underway and the Sarpy/Cass Health Department with assistance from DHHS is rapidly assessing potential exposures to determine next steps.All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.&nbsp;Public health partners across the state continue to take action to protect the health of Nebraskans.Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html#Have-supplies-on-hand">Stock up on supplies&nbsp;</a>, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html#take-everyday-precautions">everyday precautions&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html#avoid-crowds">Avoid crowds&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid&nbsp;<a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/covid-19-cruise-ship">cruise travel&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html#stay-home">stay home&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water&nbsp;for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://icm-tracking.meltwater.com/link.php?DynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7c01%7ckhalilah.legrand%40nebraska.gov%7c7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637185219636880975&amp;sdata=9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%2BuB%2B02JIhXlYFdLQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://icm-tracking.meltwater.com/link.php?DynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7c01%7ckhalilah.legrand%40nebraska.gov%7c7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637185219636880975&amp;sdata=9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%2BuB%2B02JIhXlYFdLQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

Officials: Cass County man is Nebraska's 11th COVID-19 case

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584061963551.png" alt="ncta closure.PNG" />
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NCTA cancels classes due to COVID-19

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The COVID-19 coronavirus has made its impact on North Platte Public Schools.

Officials announced Thursday evening at a news conference that all North Platte Public Schools activities are canceled effective at 5:30 p.m. today through Monday, March 16.

This includes the North Platte High School musical, West Side Story, that was slated to open tomorrow night, parent-teacher conferences.

Schools were already scheduled to be out for students on Friday. Staff were advised to remain at home to minimize potential exposure to the virus.

School officials will reevaluate the situation and make further announcements next week.

The school sent the following message to staff, students and parents:

"As a precautionary measure, NPPSD will cancel all school activities starting at 5:30 Thursday, March 12, 2020, through Monday, March 16, 2020.&nbsp; All students, staff, teachers, and administration are asked to stay home and minimize contact with other individuals.

Maintenance and District Office staff are asked to report at regularly scheduled times on Friday and Monday."

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The COVID-19 coronavirus has made its impact on North Platte Public Schools.Officials announced Thursday evening at a news conference that all North Platte Public Schools activities are canceled effective at 5:30 p.m. today through Monday, March 16.This includes the North Platte High School musical, West Side Story, that was slated to open tomorrow night, parent-teacher conferences.Schools were already scheduled to be out for students on Friday. Staff were advised to remain at home to minimize potential exposure to the virus.School officials will reevaluate the situation and make further announcements next week.The school sent the following message to staff, students and parents:"As a precautionary measure, NPPSD will cancel all school activities starting at 5:30 Thursday, March 12, 2020, through Monday, March 16, 2020.&nbsp; All students, staff, teachers, and administration are asked to stay home and minimize contact with other individuals.Maintenance and District Office staff are asked to report at regularly scheduled times on Friday and Monday."

North Platte Public Schools cancel all activities through March 16

LINCOLN –&nbsp;On Friday, Governor Pete Ricketts, Nebraska Department of Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt, education leaders, and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry will host a press conference.&nbsp; Gov. Ricketts and education leaders will announce the guidance they will use for school closures.&nbsp; Additionally, leaders will make remarks on how the Nebraska business community is preparing for the coronavirus pandemic.

During the news conference, schools will talk about their plans to regularly meet to discuss the status of school operations, their approach around school closures, and the importance of making decisions in a timely manner for public health.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579024294426.jpeg" alt="Governor Pete Ricketts" />
 <figcaption>Governor Pete Ricketts</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN –&nbsp;On Friday, Governor Pete Ricketts, Nebraska Department of Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt, education leaders, and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry will host a press conference.&nbsp; Gov. Ricketts and education leaders will announce the guidance they will use for school closures.&nbsp; Additionally, leaders will make remarks on how the Nebraska business community is preparing for the coronavirus pandemic.During the news conference, schools will talk about their plans to regularly meet to discuss the status of school operations, their approach around school closures, and the importance of making decisions in a timely manner for public health.

Governor Rickets to hold news conference with state leaders Friday morning on COVID-19

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers gave initial approval Thursday to a $9.4 billion, two-year state budget that shovels millions of extra dollars into the state's rainy-day fund amid fears about the global pandemic caused by the new coronavirus.

Lawmakers had already planned to boost the state's cash-reserve fund after three years of lagging tax collections and tight budgets, but the worldwide panic had many of them warning that the state could face more trouble.

"Our fiscal posture for our state, I think, is strong," said Sen. John Stinner, chairman of the budget-writing Appropriations Committee. "With the coronavirus, it needs to be strong."

The new budget would boost the cash reserve to $731 million by the end of the current two-year budget cycle in June 2022. The reserve had fallen as low as $296 million last year.

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 vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. In mainland China, where the virus first exploded, more than 80,000 people have been diagnosed and nearly 63,000 have recovered so far.

The budget also includes recovery money for the 2019 floods, pay raises for state correctional officers to help fight staffing shortages, and additional funding for so-called problem-solving courts that encourage treatment over punishment for criminal offenders.

"I think the majority of what this budget does is lift the state up as a whole," said Sen. Kate Bolz, of Lincoln, who serves on the Appropriations Committee.

Another committee member, Sen. Robert Hilkemann, of Omaha, said lawmakers tried to avoid spending too much even though state revenues have shown improvement within the last year.

"Sometimes when you have an excess, you may be tempted to spend a little more than you ought to be spending," Hilkemann said. "I think the committee was very judicious."

The mainline budget bill advanced despite a heated debate and a filibuster that kept lawmakers at the Capitol for several hours longer than expected.

Sens. Ernie Chambers and Justin Wayne, of Omaha, took turns stalling a vote on the budget to protest what they argued was an unfair budget that didn't do enough to help their largely impoverished, minority-heavy Omaha districts.

The senators noted that the budget offered millions of dollars for a rural housing program and repairs to a damaged irrigation canal that serves western Nebraska farmers. But Wayne said he opposed the spending plan because it didn't include money for a similar housing program in urban areas or funding for a proposal to help Omaha provide clean tap water to residents in his district.

"This budget prioritizes rural over urban and increases the urban-rural divide," Wayne said.

Chambers and Wayne, who are black, lectured lawmakers about the nation's long history of racism and said the state needs to do more to help their districts. The delay angered many lawmakers, who had expected to leave at noon for a four-day weekend, but as of 5 p.m. they still hadn't adjourned for the day.

"For me not to stand up and fight, I would do a disservice to my community," Wayne said.

The main budget bill won first-round approval on a 41-2 vote. Two additional votes are required before it goes to the governor.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers gave initial approval Thursday to a $9.4 billion, two-year state budget that shovels millions of extra dollars into the state's rainy-day fund amid fears about the global pandemic caused by the new coronavirus.Lawmakers had already planned to boost the state's cash-reserve fund after three years of lagging tax collections and tight budgets, but the worldwide panic had many of them warning that the state could face more trouble."Our fiscal posture for our state, I think, is strong," said Sen. John Stinner, chairman of the budget-writing Appropriations Committee. "With the coronavirus, it needs to be strong."The new budget would boost the cash reserve to $731 million by the end of the current two-year budget cycle in June 2022. The reserve had fallen as low as $296 million last year.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 vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. In mainland China, where the virus first exploded, more than 80,000 people have been diagnosed and nearly 63,000 have recovered so far.The budget also includes recovery money for the 2019 floods, pay raises for state correctional officers to help fight staffing shortages, and additional funding for so-called problem-solving courts that encourage treatment over punishment for criminal offenders."I think the majority of what this budget does is lift the state up as a whole," said Sen. Kate Bolz, of Lincoln, who serves on the Appropriations Committee.Another committee member, Sen. Robert Hilkemann, of Omaha, said lawmakers tried to avoid spending too much even though state revenues have shown improvement within the last year."Sometimes when you have an excess, you may be tempted to spend a little more than you ought to be spending," Hilkemann said. "I think the committee was very judicious."The mainline budget bill advanced despite a heated debate and a filibuster that kept lawmakers at the Capitol for several hours longer than expected.Sens. Ernie Chambers and Justin Wayne, of Omaha, took turns stalling a vote on the budget to protest what they argued was an unfair budget that didn't do enough to help their largely impoverished, minority-heavy Omaha districts.The senators noted that the budget offered millions of dollars for a rural housing program and repairs to a damaged irrigation canal that serves western Nebraska farmers. But Wayne said he opposed the spending plan because it didn't include money for a similar housing program in urban areas or funding for a proposal to help Omaha provide clean tap water to residents in his district."This budget prioritizes rural over urban and increases the urban-rural divide," Wayne said.Chambers and Wayne, who are black, lectured lawmakers about the nation's long history of racism and said the state needs to do more to help their districts. The delay angered many lawmakers, who had expected to leave at noon for a four-day weekend, but as of 5 p.m. they still hadn't adjourned for the day."For me not to stand up and fight, I would do a disservice to my community," Wayne said.The main budget bill won first-round approval on a 41-2 vote. Two additional votes are required before it goes to the governor.

Nebraska advances new budget with virus fears in mind

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Several Omaha-area schools have announced they are canceling classes a day early ahead of spring break and closing buildings to deal with the outbreak of the new coronavirus.

Elkhorn Public Schools, Millard Public Schools and Papillion La Vista Community Schools announced Thursday that classes are canceled for Friday before the weeklong spring break next week and use the time to clean and sanitize buildings and equipment.

Bellevue Public Schools also announced its buildings will be closed Friday through the spring break week that ends March 22. during spring break for cleaning. All Bellevue Public School activities will also be closed during that time.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Several Omaha-area schools have announced they are canceling classes a day early ahead of spring break and closing buildings to deal with the outbreak of the new coronavirus.Elkhorn Public Schools, Millard Public Schools and Papillion La Vista Community Schools announced Thursday that classes are canceled for Friday before the weeklong spring break next week and use the time to clean and sanitize buildings and equipment.Bellevue Public Schools also announced its buildings will be closed Friday through the spring break week that ends March 22. during spring break for cleaning. All Bellevue Public School activities will also be closed during that time.For most people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">the new coronavirus</a>&nbsp;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.Most people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.

Omaha-area public school districts close to deal with virus

(AP)-All four University of Nebraska campuses and Creighton University have announced plans to shift to online classes this month in an effort to slow the spread of the new coronavirus.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska at Omaha announced similar plans Thursday, following in the footsteps of colleges and universities around the country. Both schools will extend their spring breaks to start next week through March 29. Classes will then resume remotely on March 30 for the remainder of the semester.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney will continue classes as usual next week before starting spring break on March 23-29 and resuming classes online March 30. The University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha will move to remote teaching for preclinical courses the week following the spring breaks, which vary by program.

Creighton University in Omaha announced says it will suspend in-person classes next week and resume them on April 13.

For most people, the new COVID-19 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.

(AP)-All four University of Nebraska campuses and Creighton University have announced plans to shift to online classes this month in an effort to slow the spread of the new coronavirus.The University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska at Omaha announced similar plans Thursday, following in the footsteps of colleges and universities around the country. Both schools will extend their spring breaks to start next week through March 29. Classes will then resume remotely on March 30 for the remainder of the semester.The University of Nebraska at Kearney will continue classes as usual next week before starting spring break on March 23-29 and resuming classes online March 30. The University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha will move to remote teaching for preclinical courses the week following the spring breaks, which vary by program.Creighton University in Omaha announced says it will suspend in-person classes next week and resume them on April 13.For most people, the new COVID-19 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.Most people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.

Nebraska universities shift to online classes as virus looms

LINCOLN, Neb.– People entering the 10 facilities operated by the Nebraska Department of&nbsp; Correctional Services (NDCS) will be asked to answer a series of questions to help identify those who have a higher chance of transmitting the coronavirus (COVID-19). For now, visits will continue to be allowed with inmates.

“There is no guarantee that we won’t need to make a decision quickly to suspend visitation,” admitted NDCS Director Scott R. Frakes. “This situation is very much day-to-day and we are prepared to react with an abundance of caution in order to keep those who live and work in our facilities as healthy as possible.”

Visitors, volunteers, contractors and others will be asked to confirm they are symptom-free, verify if they have had contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 and If they have traveled recently by plane. If any questions are answered in the affirmative, entry to the facility will be denied.

“We are going to have temperature gauges on hand, so we can easily detect if someone has a fever,” said Dir. Frakes. “While we don’t want to be intrusive, we have a responsibility to take those precautions that are most appropriate at this time.”

That also includes reminding staff about the symptoms associated with coronavirus and taking additional steps to disinfect areas where they work. “For example, we will be cleaning transport vehicles more frequently and thoroughly after each trip,” noted Dir. Frakes. “We have directed facilities to curtail staff and inmate activities where food is served and where large groups of people may be congregating in a small spaces.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The majority of volunteer activities will continue for now; although, Dir. Frakes indicated it was very likely that a tipping point would come, requiring more stringent steps.

“This illness is moving rapidly. Despite all that we do, we cannot eliminate complete human contact. We will continue to facilitate activities for as long as possible, to the extent that it does not put anyone in NDCS or members of the public in further jeopardy for becoming sick.”

Dir. Frakes said that information about visitation would be updated on the agency’s website: corrections.nebraska.gov. “People should check the status, before they make the trip. Certainly, we appreciate everyone’s willingness in answering those screening questions, before stepping inside our facilities.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560127611925.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.– People entering the 10 facilities operated by the Nebraska Department of&nbsp; Correctional Services (NDCS) will be asked to answer a series of questions to help identify those who have a higher chance of transmitting the coronavirus (COVID-19). For now, visits will continue to be allowed with inmates.“There is no guarantee that we won’t need to make a decision quickly to suspend visitation,” admitted NDCS Director Scott R. Frakes. “This situation is very much day-to-day and we are prepared to react with an abundance of caution in order to keep those who live and work in our facilities as healthy as possible.”Visitors, volunteers, contractors and others will be asked to confirm they are symptom-free, verify if they have had contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 and If they have traveled recently by plane. If any questions are answered in the affirmative, entry to the facility will be denied.“We are going to have temperature gauges on hand, so we can easily detect if someone has a fever,” said Dir. Frakes. “While we don’t want to be intrusive, we have a responsibility to take those precautions that are most appropriate at this time.”That also includes reminding staff about the symptoms associated with coronavirus and taking additional steps to disinfect areas where they work. “For example, we will be cleaning transport vehicles more frequently and thoroughly after each trip,” noted Dir. Frakes. “We have directed facilities to curtail staff and inmate activities where food is served and where large groups of people may be congregating in a small spaces.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The majority of volunteer activities will continue for now; although, Dir. Frakes indicated it was very likely that a tipping point would come, requiring more stringent steps.“This illness is moving rapidly. Despite all that we do, we cannot eliminate complete human contact. We will continue to facilitate activities for as long as possible, to the extent that it does not put anyone in NDCS or members of the public in further jeopardy for becoming sick.”Dir. Frakes said that information about visitation would be updated on the agency’s website: corrections.nebraska.gov. “People should check the status, before they make the trip. Certainly, we appreciate everyone’s willingness in answering those screening questions, before stepping inside our facilities.”

NDCS will implement questionnaire for facility entry in response to COVID-19 outbreak

Updated March 12, 2020 3:15pm Central time

National Junior College Athletic Association

Updated March 12, 2020 3:15pm Central time<h2>Local</h2>NSAA Boys State Basketball tournament<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Just confirmed with the Nebraska Athletic department: The NSAA has been informed state basketball can continue through Friday’s games at Devaney. Pinnacle Bank Arena is not owned by UNL, so any other facilities decisions would be separate. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nebpreps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nebpreps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel8ABC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Channel8ABC</a>&mdash; Matt Reynoldson (@MattReynKLKN) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattReynKLKN/status/1238154200363741184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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</div><h2>National</h2>NCAA<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NCAA cancels remaining winter and spring championships: <a href="https://t.co/p4vCzvzmvo">https://t.co/p4vCzvzmvo</a> <a href="https://t.co/yqAHak4HO5">pic.twitter.com/yqAHak4HO5</a>&mdash; Inside the NCAA (@InsidetheNCAA) <a href="https://twitter.com/InsidetheNCAA/status/1238197263358464001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Major League Baseball<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Statement from Major League Baseball: <a href="https://t.co/0bWS5VTRPu">pic.twitter.com/0bWS5VTRPu</a>&mdash; MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1238180549174362117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Major League Soccer<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Major League Soccer Suspends Season for 30 Days <a href="https://t.co/P0HEPmsnkx">pic.twitter.com/P0HEPmsnkx</a>&mdash; Major League Soccer (@MLS) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLS/status/1238128176502628353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Professional Golf Association<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Official statement from <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PGATOUR</a> Commissioner Jay Monahan. Tour events will occur without fans in attendance for the foreseeable future. <a href="https://t.co/reFkxdrVa6">pic.twitter.com/reFkxdrVa6</a>&mdash; Front Office Sports (@frntofficesport) <a href="https://twitter.com/frntofficesport/status/1238164130999070722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>National Junior College Athletic Association<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Update - <a href="https://twitter.com/NJCAA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NJCAA</a> to postpone upcoming DI, DII basketball national championships, alter DIII tournaments currently underway. Statement | <a href="https://t.co/3IX4UjTBLt">https://t.co/3IX4UjTBLt</a> <a href="https://t.co/QfqGZjfP9D">pic.twitter.com/QfqGZjfP9D</a>&mdash; NJCAA (@NJCAA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NJCAA/status/1238162866177540097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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</div>National Lacrosse League (indoor)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An update from the NLL ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/f7ONEdm2PI">https://t.co/f7ONEdm2PI</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lri9C2VkFl">pic.twitter.com/Lri9C2VkFl</a>&mdash; Colorado Mammoth (@MammothLax) <a href="https://twitter.com/MammothLax/status/1238149920349016069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>National Hockey League<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHL</a> pauses 2019-20 season. <a href="https://t.co/WMePei4clH">https://t.co/WMePei4clH</a> <a href="https://t.co/W5Hqmk3kX7">pic.twitter.com/W5Hqmk3kX7</a>&mdash; NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PR_NHL/status/1238156578731294721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>National Basketball Association<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NBA To Suspend Season Following Tonight&#39;s Games <a href="https://t.co/2PTx2fkLlW">pic.twitter.com/2PTx2fkLlW</a>&mdash; NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1237917831506857989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>SEC<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ALERT: Based on the latest developments and the continued spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19, the Southeastern Conference today announced the cancellation of the remainder of the 2020 Men’s Basketball Tournament in Nashville.&mdash; Southeastern Conference (@SEC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEC/status/1238129386848768000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Big Ten<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Big Ten Conference announced today that it will be canceling the remainder of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, effective immediately.<a href="https://t.co/MeQMNScXKQ">https://t.co/MeQMNScXKQ</a>&mdash; Big Ten Conference (@bigten) <a href="https://twitter.com/bigten/status/1238130102745083904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Big 12<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The <a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Big12Conference</a> has announced the immediate suspension of all Conference championships until April 15, resulting in the cancellation of the Phillips 66 Big 12 Basketball Championships. Conducting future Big 12 championships this season will be evaluated by April 15. <a href="https://t.co/HIGxfSrlLn">pic.twitter.com/HIGxfSrlLn</a>&mdash; Big 12 Conference (@Big12Conference) <a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference/status/1238142825868464130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Pac-12<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pac-12 statement on men&#39;s basketball tournament, Pac-12 sport competitions &amp; Pac-12 championship events: <a href="https://t.co/HjJvki3LOT">pic.twitter.com/HjJvki3LOT</a>&mdash; Pac-12 Conference (@pac12) <a href="https://twitter.com/pac12/status/1238137030594269184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>ACC<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A statement on the cancellation of the 2020 Men&#39;s Basketball Championship. <a href="https://t.co/62bAK0PuGn">pic.twitter.com/62bAK0PuGn</a>&mdash; The American (@American_Conf) <a href="https://twitter.com/American_Conf/status/1238129424370982912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>NASCAR<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/mmvs7SFd3Q">pic.twitter.com/mmvs7SFd3Q</a>&mdash; NASCAR (@NASCAR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASCAR/status/1238156124727238657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Mountain West Conference<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mountain West Suspends Spring Sports Competitions <a href="https://t.co/cpD4rAokzO">pic.twitter.com/cpD4rAokzO</a>&mdash; Mountain West (@MountainWest) <a href="https://twitter.com/MountainWest/status/1238163276829274113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Coronavirus and sports: Where do we stand? What is closed?

KEARNEY –&nbsp;The University of Nebraska at Kearney is suspending face-to-face classes beginning March 30 due to immediate concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus, Chancellor Doug Kristensen announced Thursday.

Courses at UNK are moving to virtual, online or alternative instruction beginning the first day of classes following spring break. Remote instruction will continue through the end of the spring semester, May 8. Classes will be held on campus next week (March 16-20) as scheduled.

UNK will evaluate the decision on an ongoing basis, monitor the situation and make proper adjustments and modifications to teaching moving forward.&nbsp;All faculty, staff and UNK employees should continue reporting to work unless they are unable.

“The health and well-being of our community is our primary concern, and each decision we make will take that and our students’ needs into account,” Kristensen said. “It’s important that we limit risk and mitigate the spread of this virus.”

UNK is not closing campus buildings. Dining services, health and counseling, academic advising and other student support services will continue. The LaVonne Kopecky Plambeck Early Childhood Education Center remains open.

Students will be allowed to stay home or remain living in residence halls, off-campus housing or other locations.

There are no known cases of the novel coronavirus at UNK, in Kearney or within Buffalo County. However, UNK continues to encourage students to practice appropriate social distancing, limit contact and practice good health, regardless of where they are living.

“This is a challenge that we can meet by working together, and by fulfilling our commitment to student learning and experiences, while providing leadership in our community and more broadly in our state and region,” Kristensen said.

Earlier this week&nbsp;Charlie Bicak, senior vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, asked&nbsp;all faculty to&nbsp;develop plans to allow completion of&nbsp;spring semester courses using alternative delivery methods.

“We recognize there will be challenges with certain modes of learning,” Bicak said. “We trust that faculty will select the strategies and tools that work best to accommodate student learning and their teaching styles.”

Those who need assistance with information technology services should contact the IT Services Help Desk at 308.865.8363.

Students, faculty and staff should contact UNK Student Health and Counseling at 308.865.8218 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:unkhealth@unk.edu">unkhealth@unk.edu</a>&nbsp;if they have concerning symptoms or questions about their health.

UNK leadership teams are continuing to discuss major events, including spring commencement ceremonies and athletic events, and will share any decisions as they are made.

Ongoing information and updates will be shared at a specific UNK webpage:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.unk.edu/coronavirus/">unk.edu/coronavirus</a>.

Statement by Ted Carter, University of Nebraska President“The chancellors and I, along with the Board of Regents and Governor Ricketts, have been in constant communication about how best to protect those we serve – starting with our 51,000 students – while also continuing the critical work of the University. The steps we are taking today will require all of us to make some adjustments. But we believe this is the right thing to do for our community. I know our faculty, staff and students will rise to the challenge.”

<figure>
 <img src="http://unknews.unk.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/UNK-News-Logo-1024x585.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD GOTTULA-UNK CommunicationsKEARNEY –&nbsp;The University of Nebraska at Kearney is suspending face-to-face classes beginning March 30 due to immediate concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus, Chancellor Doug Kristensen announced Thursday.Courses at UNK are moving to virtual, online or alternative instruction beginning the first day of classes following spring break. Remote instruction will continue through the end of the spring semester, May 8. Classes will be held on campus next week (March 16-20) as scheduled.<figure>
 <img src="http://unknews.unk.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Doug-Kristensen-Web-770x1024.jpg" alt="Doug Kristensen, UNK Chancellor" />
 <figcaption>Doug Kristensen, UNK Chancellor</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK will evaluate the decision on an ongoing basis, monitor the situation and make proper adjustments and modifications to teaching moving forward.&nbsp;All faculty, staff and UNK employees should continue reporting to work unless they are unable.“The health and well-being of our community is our primary concern, and each decision we make will take that and our students’ needs into account,” Kristensen said. “It’s important that we limit risk and mitigate the spread of this virus.”UNK is not closing campus buildings. Dining services, health and counseling, academic advising and other student support services will continue. The LaVonne Kopecky Plambeck Early Childhood Education Center remains open.Students will be allowed to stay home or remain living in residence halls, off-campus housing or other locations.There are no known cases of the novel coronavirus at UNK, in Kearney or within Buffalo County. However, UNK continues to encourage students to practice appropriate social distancing, limit contact and practice good health, regardless of where they are living.“This is a challenge that we can meet by working together, and by fulfilling our commitment to student learning and experiences, while providing leadership in our community and more broadly in our state and region,” Kristensen said.Earlier this week&nbsp;Charlie Bicak, senior vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, asked&nbsp;all faculty to&nbsp;develop plans to allow completion of&nbsp;spring semester courses using alternative delivery methods.“We recognize there will be challenges with certain modes of learning,” Bicak said. “We trust that faculty will select the strategies and tools that work best to accommodate student learning and their teaching styles.”Those who need assistance with information technology services should contact the IT Services Help Desk at 308.865.8363.Students, faculty and staff should contact UNK Student Health and Counseling at 308.865.8218 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:unkhealth@unk.edu">unkhealth@unk.edu</a>&nbsp;if they have concerning symptoms or questions about their health.UNK leadership teams are continuing to discuss major events, including spring commencement ceremonies and athletic events, and will share any decisions as they are made.Ongoing information and updates will be shared at a specific UNK webpage:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.unk.edu/coronavirus/">unk.edu/coronavirus</a>.Statement by Ted Carter, University of Nebraska President“The chancellors and I, along with the Board of Regents and Governor Ricketts, have been in constant communication about how best to protect those we serve – starting with our 51,000 students – while also continuing the critical work of the University. The steps we are taking today will require all of us to make some adjustments. But we believe this is the right thing to do for our community. I know our faculty, staff and students will rise to the challenge.”

UNK suspends face-to-face classes beginning March 30

NEW YORK (AP) — The entertainment industry is preparing to shut down to curb the spread of the coronavirus. 

That means canceling upcoming movies, suspending all Broadway performances and eliminating live audiences from television shows until it's safe to welcome crowds back. 

To accommodate calls for social distancing, Hollywood moved to pause the normal hum of TV productions and the bustle of red-carpet movie premieres. 

After New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo banned gatherings of more than 500 people, Broadway theaters announced that they would close immediately and remain dark through April 12.

NEW YORK (AP) — The entertainment industry is preparing to shut down to curb the spread of the coronavirus. That means canceling upcoming movies, suspending all Broadway performances and eliminating live audiences from television shows until it's safe to welcome crowds back. To accommodate calls for social distancing, Hollywood moved to pause the normal hum of TV productions and the bustle of red-carpet movie premieres. After New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo banned gatherings of more than 500 people, Broadway theaters announced that they would close immediately and remain dark through April 12.

Coronavirus Update