Public Health Command Center update from North Platte on May 22, 2020.

Public Health Command Center update from North Platte on May 22, 2020.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F248803229712650%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>

🎥 Public Health Command Center Update from North Platte (May 22, 2020)

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with proclamations from President Donald J. Trump, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff effective immediately until 12:00 p.m. (noon) on May 25, 2020.&nbsp; The flags are being lowered to honor the victims of the coronavirus pandemic and to observe Memorial Day.&nbsp;

“On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the heroes who’ve made sacrifices to protect the freedoms we enjoy.&nbsp; Their memory lives on and won’t ever be forgotten.&nbsp; This year, we’ll commemorate Memorial Day differently than usual due to the coronavirus. &nbsp;I invite Nebraskans to watch our virtual observance at the State Capitol, starting at 8:00 a.m. on Memorial Day (<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/memorialday" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov/memorialday</a>). &nbsp;Susanne, the kids, and I wish everyone a fun and relaxing holiday weekend.&nbsp; Please practice physical distancing during your celebrations and be sure to drive safely if you plan to travel.”

The President’s “Proclamation on Honoring the Victims of the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic” is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-honoring-victims-novel-coronavirus-pandemic%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C5298ebec9331409f9a5808d7fe6a0ea3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637257603767315208&amp;sdata=H84sW7c%2BkWEraU6ymFm6Xn4pWhc5gjQd8ZWUKqM3gHE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; The President’s “Proclamation on Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day” is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-prayer-peace-memorial-day-2020%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C5298ebec9331409f9a5808d7fe6a0ea3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637257603767325167&amp;sdata=ou5gTUJJM9r0oGj42SIMdOCmAa%2FxvxJNcMOs6Wdu37I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Flags will be flown at half-staff until noon on Monday at which point they will be raised to the top of the staff.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with proclamations from President Donald J. Trump, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff effective immediately until 12:00 p.m. (noon) on May 25, 2020.&nbsp; The flags are being lowered to honor the victims of the coronavirus pandemic and to observe Memorial Day.&nbsp;“On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the heroes who’ve made sacrifices to protect the freedoms we enjoy.&nbsp; Their memory lives on and won’t ever be forgotten.&nbsp; This year, we’ll commemorate Memorial Day differently than usual due to the coronavirus. &nbsp;I invite Nebraskans to watch our virtual observance at the State Capitol, starting at 8:00 a.m. on Memorial Day (<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/memorialday" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov/memorialday</a>). &nbsp;Susanne, the kids, and I wish everyone a fun and relaxing holiday weekend.&nbsp; Please practice physical distancing during your celebrations and be sure to drive safely if you plan to travel.”The President’s “Proclamation on Honoring the Victims of the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic” is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-honoring-victims-novel-coronavirus-pandemic%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C5298ebec9331409f9a5808d7fe6a0ea3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637257603767315208&amp;sdata=H84sW7c%2BkWEraU6ymFm6Xn4pWhc5gjQd8ZWUKqM3gHE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; The President’s “Proclamation on Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day” is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-prayer-peace-memorial-day-2020%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C5298ebec9331409f9a5808d7fe6a0ea3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637257603767325167&amp;sdata=ou5gTUJJM9r0oGj42SIMdOCmAa%2FxvxJNcMOs6Wdu37I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Flags will be flown at half-staff until noon on Monday at which point they will be raised to the top of the staff.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts issues Memorial Day Statement


Donald Duane Nichols, 62, North Platte NE and Heidi Vanessa Leever,
49, North Platte NE

Connor
James Gosnell, 22, Kearney NE and Keanna Marie Kroeker, 22, Kearney
NE

Timothy
Lee Scott III, 25, North Platte NE and Isabelle Avalinalee Popejoy,
22, North Platte NE

Jason
Jonathon Haines, 36, North Platte NE and Calley Elizabeth Kelsey, 29,
North Platte NE

Brent
Andrew Kennedy, 28, North Platte NE and Carra Christine Johnson, 24,
North Platte NE

Levi
Lynn Walker, 25, Gothenburg NE and Mackinzie Joe Ostendorf, 25,
Gothenburg NE

Published May 22, 2020
Donald Duane Nichols, 62, North Platte NE and Heidi Vanessa Leever,
49, North Platte NEConnor
James Gosnell, 22, Kearney NE and Keanna Marie Kroeker, 22, Kearney
NETimothy
Lee Scott III, 25, North Platte NE and Isabelle Avalinalee Popejoy,
22, North Platte NEJason
Jonathon Haines, 36, North Platte NE and Calley Elizabeth Kelsey, 29,
North Platte NEBrent
Andrew Kennedy, 28, North Platte NE and Carra Christine Johnson, 24,
North Platte NELevi
Lynn Walker, 25, Gothenburg NE and Mackinzie Joe Ostendorf, 25,
Gothenburg NE

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/5ec87ef6ebfb13423b26020f">https://northplattepost.com/posts/5ec87ef6ebfb13423b26020f</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A 43-year-old North Platte man has been charged with 2nd degree murder following a shooting in North Platte on Friday afternoon.

<a></a>According to North Platte Police, at 2:32 PM&nbsp; the North Platte 911 Center received several 911 calls reporting gunshots in the 100 block of N. Chestnut St. One caller reported that he was forced to defend himself and shot another person. North Platte Police Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff Deputies arrived and quickly secured the area. The victim was found inside of his vehicle parked in the alley north of 101 N. Chestnut. The victim was unresponsive and transported to Great Plains Health by the North Platte Fire Department. The victim, 25-year-old Brett Allen Torres, succumbed to the gunshot injuries. He was shot several times with a .45 caliber handgun.

Police investigators are still processing the crime scene and interviewing witnesses. The Lincoln County Corner’s Office is making arrangements for a forensic autopsy to be performed next week.

Keith L. Allen, 43, was arrested for 2nd degree murder and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony. He is incarcerated at Lincoln County Detention Center.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte Police Department is investigating after a shooting reportedly left one man dead.

According to police, on Friday afternoon at around 2:32 p.m., officers responded to the report of a shooting at A and Chestnut Streets.

Police say a 43-year-old male is suspected of shooting a 25-year-old male. The victim was transported to Great Plains Health where he died.

Police say the suspect called 911 and reported that he had shot a man in what he claimed was self-defense.

Police say the suspect is in custody and there is no threat to the public.

This is a developing story. We will have more details when they are available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590183091857.jpeg" alt="North Platte police investigate a shooting at A and Chestnut Streets on Friday afternoon that left one man dead." />
 <figcaption>North Platte police investigate a shooting at A and Chestnut Streets on Friday afternoon that left one man dead.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostUPDATE 5/22/20 8:30 pm<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/5ec87ef6ebfb13423b26020f">https://northplattepost.com/posts/5ec87ef6ebfb13423b26020f</a>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A 43-year-old North Platte man has been charged with 2nd degree murder following a shooting in North Platte on Friday afternoon.<a></a>According to North Platte Police, at 2:32 PM&nbsp; the North Platte 911 Center received several 911 calls reporting gunshots in the 100 block of N. Chestnut St. One caller reported that he was forced to defend himself and shot another person. North Platte Police Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff Deputies arrived and quickly secured the area. The victim was found inside of his vehicle parked in the alley north of 101 N. Chestnut. The victim was unresponsive and transported to Great Plains Health by the North Platte Fire Department. The victim, 25-year-old Brett Allen Torres, succumbed to the gunshot injuries. He was shot several times with a .45 caliber handgun.Police investigators are still processing the crime scene and interviewing witnesses. The Lincoln County Corner’s Office is making arrangements for a forensic autopsy to be performed next week.Keith L. Allen, 43, was arrested for 2nd degree murder and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony. He is incarcerated at Lincoln County Detention Center.NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The North Platte Police Department is investigating after a shooting reportedly left one man dead.According to police, on Friday afternoon at around 2:32 p.m., officers responded to the report of a shooting at A and Chestnut Streets.Police say a 43-year-old male is suspected of shooting a 25-year-old male. The victim was transported to Great Plains Health where he died.Police say the suspect called 911 and reported that he had shot a man in what he claimed was self-defense.Police say the suspect is in custody and there is no threat to the public.The investigation is ongoing.This is a developing story. We will have more details when they are available.<figure>
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North Platte police investigate shooting, 1 reportedly dead

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -Officials with the West Central District Health Department are reporting one new confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.&nbsp;

WCDHD says the case is a woman in her 70s who is currently isolating at home.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -Officials with the West Central District Health Department are reporting one new confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lincoln County.&nbsp;WCDHD says the case is a woman in her 70s who is currently isolating at home.&nbsp;<figure>
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Health officials report new confirmed virus case in Lincoln County

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following the release of April’s unemployment rate numbers.&nbsp; Nebraska’s unemployment rate for April was 8.3 percent.&nbsp; Nebraska had the third-lowest unemployment rate in the nation in April.

“April’s unemployment numbers show the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the hardworking people of Nebraska,” said Governor Ricketts.&nbsp; “It also shows that Nebraska has been able to protect our healthcare system while also protecting the livelihoods of significantly more families than other states.&nbsp; In the coming weeks and months, our focus will continue to be on helping people safely get back to work so we can get Nebraska growing.”

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following the release of April’s unemployment rate numbers.&nbsp; Nebraska’s unemployment rate for April was 8.3 percent.&nbsp; Nebraska had the third-lowest unemployment rate in the nation in April.“April’s unemployment numbers show the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the hardworking people of Nebraska,” said Governor Ricketts.&nbsp; “It also shows that Nebraska has been able to protect our healthcare system while also protecting the livelihoods of significantly more families than other states.&nbsp; In the coming weeks and months, our focus will continue to be on helping people safely get back to work so we can get Nebraska growing.”

Gov. Ricketts issues statement on April unemployment

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for April jumped to 8.3%, more than double March's 4% as the state saw businesses shuttered in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

The April rate was released Friday by the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Unemployment claims have risen to unprecedented levels in recent weeks, with more than 120,000 people in Nebraska filing for unemployment from March 8 and May 16. Thousands of people were laid off as nonessential businesses closed or scaled down amid the state's efforts to slow the spread of the virus.

The national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for April was 14.7%, a spike from the March rate of 4.4%. The April 2019 rate was 3.6%.

Nebraska's nonfarm employment was 942,576 in April, a decline of 76,866 jobs over the month and 81,777 jobs over the year. The nonfarm employment level had not been below 943,000 since March 2011.

The preliminary Omaha-area unemployment rate for April was 10%, up from March's 4.3%, the report said. The Lincoln-area preliminary rate rose to 9.3% from 3.7% in March, and the Grand Island-area rate shot to 11% from March's 4.6%.

Unemployment rates for Grand Island, Lincoln and Omaha have not been seasonally adjusted and cannot be directly compared with the state unemployment rate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587138270112.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for April jumped to 8.3%, more than double March's 4% as the state saw businesses shuttered in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.The April rate was released Friday by the Nebraska Department of Labor.Unemployment claims have risen to unprecedented levels in recent weeks, with more than 120,000 people in Nebraska filing for unemployment from March 8 and May 16. Thousands of people were laid off as nonessential businesses closed or scaled down amid the state's efforts to slow the spread of the virus.The national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for April was 14.7%, a spike from the March rate of 4.4%. The April 2019 rate was 3.6%.Nebraska's nonfarm employment was 942,576 in April, a decline of 76,866 jobs over the month and 81,777 jobs over the year. The nonfarm employment level had not been below 943,000 since March 2011.The preliminary Omaha-area unemployment rate for April was 10%, up from March's 4.3%, the report said. The Lincoln-area preliminary rate rose to 9.3% from 3.7% in March, and the Grand Island-area rate shot to 11% from March's 4.6%.Unemployment rates for Grand Island, Lincoln and Omaha have not been seasonally adjusted and cannot be directly compared with the state unemployment rate.

Nebraska monthly unemployment rate spikes in April

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Five more people have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and public health officials confirmed another 303 cases on Thursday, state officials said.

Nebraska now has 143 confirmed deaths statewide and 11,425 known cases, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Nearly 78,700 people have gotten tested since the pandemic began.

An infectious diseases expert from the University of Nebraska Medical Center said she's concerned about the number of hospitalizations in the Omaha area, even though hospitals still have plenty of capacity statewide.

"We just keep building," Dr. Angela Hewlett, medical director of the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, said Thursday night at an NET town hall with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "That's what I'm worried about. It's not a big surge, but a gradual building up over the last couple of weeks."

Hewlett said the university medical center is at 80% of its capacity. Statewide, Nebraska's hospitals have 43% of their beds, 35% of their intensive care unit beds and 77% of their ventilators available.

Ricketts has said he's using Nebraska's hospital capacity to judge how effectively the state is responding to the pandemic. On Thursday, he announced that he's further loosening restrictions in all but four Nebraska counties on June 1.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Five more people have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and public health officials confirmed another 303 cases on Thursday, state officials said.Nebraska now has 143 confirmed deaths statewide and 11,425 known cases, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Nearly 78,700 people have gotten tested since the pandemic began.An infectious diseases expert from the University of Nebraska Medical Center said she's concerned about the number of hospitalizations in the Omaha area, even though hospitals still have plenty of capacity statewide."We just keep building," Dr. Angela Hewlett, medical director of the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, said Thursday night at an NET town hall with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "That's what I'm worried about. It's not a big surge, but a gradual building up over the last couple of weeks."Hewlett said the university medical center is at 80% of its capacity. Statewide, Nebraska's hospitals have 43% of their beds, 35% of their intensive care unit beds and 77% of their ventilators available.Ricketts has said he's using Nebraska's hospital capacity to judge how effectively the state is responding to the pandemic. On Thursday, he announced that he's further loosening restrictions in all but four Nebraska counties on June 1.

5 more virus deaths, 303 new cases reported in Nebraska

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -A North Platte man was arrested Friday morning following a pursuit.&nbsp;

On May 22, 2020 at 2:40 a.m., a Lincoln County Sheriff's Deputy attempted to stop a vehicle near the intersection of 11th and Augusta Avenue. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit began.  The vehicle was occupied by a lone male occupant who was later identified to be twenty-seven year old William Butrick of North Platte.

Authorities say Butrick broke numerous traffic laws while attempting to evade Deputies at a high rate of speed. The pursuit lead Eastbound on 9th Street where Butrick lost control of the vehicle at the intersection of 9th and Jeffers Street. The vehicle struck a light pole and the City Discount Liquor building. 

After striking the building, Butrick’s vehicle immediately burst into flames. Mr. Butrick was injured and ejected from the accident he was pulled to safety by Deputies.

North Platte Fire and Rescue arrived to the scene and put out the fire which had spread to City Discount Liquor building causing damage. &nbsp;

Butrick was transported to Great Plains Health where he remained for non-life threating injuries. Drugs and Alcohol are suspected and multiple charges are pending.  The investigation of this case is ongoing.

<figure>
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 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -A North Platte man was arrested Friday morning following a pursuit.&nbsp;On May 22, 2020 at 2:40 a.m., a Lincoln County Sheriff's Deputy attempted to stop a vehicle near the intersection of 11th and Augusta Avenue. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit began. The vehicle was occupied by a lone male occupant who was later identified to be twenty-seven year old William Butrick of North Platte.Authorities say Butrick broke numerous traffic laws while attempting to evade Deputies at a high rate of speed. The pursuit lead Eastbound on 9th Street where Butrick lost control of the vehicle at the intersection of 9th and Jeffers Street. The vehicle struck a light pole and the City Discount Liquor building. After striking the building, Butrick’s vehicle immediately burst into flames. Mr. Butrick was injured and ejected from the accident he was pulled to safety by Deputies.North Platte Fire and Rescue arrived to the scene and put out the fire which had spread to City Discount Liquor building causing damage. &nbsp;Butrick was transported to Great Plains Health where he remained for non-life threating injuries. Drugs and Alcohol are suspected and multiple charges are pending. The investigation of this case is ongoing.

North Platte man arrested following pursuit, crash Friday morning

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) - A Platte Center woman has been sentenced to five years in prison for causing a 2018 crash that killed three of her passengers and seriously injured another.

Angelique Kampmann, 21, was sentenced Thursday in Dawson County District Court, radio station KRVN&nbsp;<a href="https://krvn.com/regional-news/second-driver-sentenced-in-dawson-county-triple-fatality-accident/" target="_blank">reported</a>. She had pleaded no contest in January to three counts of attempted vehicular homicide and one count of driving under the influence, causing serious injury.

Investigators have said Kampmann was driving south on Oct. 16, 2018, when she ran a stop sign and collided with an eastbound sport utility vehicle on U.S. Highway 30 near Elm Creek. Three passengers in the car - 18-year-old Ziera Nickerson, of Kearney; 27-year-old Karli Michael, of Pontiac, Illinois; and 20-year-old Donald Anderson, of Overton - all died at the scene. A fourth passenger, 18-year-old Ashley Kemp, of Kearney, was injured.

The SUV driver, Elm Creek resident Kasey Rayburn, was sentenced in January to a year of probation and fined $500 for driving under the influence.

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) - A Platte Center woman has been sentenced to five years in prison for causing a 2018 crash that killed three of her passengers and seriously injured another.Angelique Kampmann, 21, was sentenced Thursday in Dawson County District Court, radio station KRVN&nbsp;<a href="https://krvn.com/regional-news/second-driver-sentenced-in-dawson-county-triple-fatality-accident/" target="_blank">reported</a>. She had pleaded no contest in January to three counts of attempted vehicular homicide and one count of driving under the influence, causing serious injury.Investigators have said Kampmann was driving south on Oct. 16, 2018, when she ran a stop sign and collided with an eastbound sport utility vehicle on U.S. Highway 30 near Elm Creek. Three passengers in the car - 18-year-old Ziera Nickerson, of Kearney; 27-year-old Karli Michael, of Pontiac, Illinois; and 20-year-old Donald Anderson, of Overton - all died at the scene. A fourth passenger, 18-year-old Ashley Kemp, of Kearney, was injured.The SUV driver, Elm Creek resident Kasey Rayburn, was sentenced in January to a year of probation and fined $500 for driving under the influence.

5-year prison sentence for Nebraska crash that killed 3

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

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Severe weather possible Saturday 

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be issuing emergency supplemental allotments to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients who receive benefits for the month of May on June 6. On April 8&nbsp;DHHS announced that in response to Congress passing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, DHHS filed a request with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutritional Service (FNS) to provide emergency allotment funds for Nebraska households that are receiving SNAP benefits.

SNAP recipients will not have to take any action to receive supplemental support as recipients will be issued increased benefits directly on their EBT cards. Households receiving SNAP benefits will see supplements to their benefits based on a maximum allotment scale. If there are four individuals in a household and that household is currently receiving $500 in benefits, the supplement will raise their benefits to the maximum allowed for households of four, which is $646 per month – or an increase of $146. Total benefits will be different based on each household's regular monthly allotment for the month of May.

Nebraska Children and Family Services (CFS) Director Stephanie Beasley hopes this supplemental allotment will be renewed for additional months, “The impact of extending SNAP allotment funds for the months of March and April was significant," she said. “If Congress continues to give states the ability to extend supplemental SNAP benefits for additional months we will work to make sure it happens here in Nebraska."

LINCOLN, Neb.-The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be issuing emergency supplemental allotments to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients who receive benefits for the month of May on June 6. On April 8&nbsp;DHHS announced that in response to Congress passing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, DHHS filed a request with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutritional Service (FNS) to provide emergency allotment funds for Nebraska households that are receiving SNAP benefits.SNAP recipients will not have to take any action to receive supplemental support as recipients will be issued increased benefits directly on their EBT cards. Households receiving SNAP benefits will see supplements to their benefits based on a maximum allotment scale. If there are four individuals in a household and that household is currently receiving $500 in benefits, the supplement will raise their benefits to the maximum allowed for households of four, which is $646 per month – or an increase of $146. Total benefits will be different based on each household's regular monthly allotment for the month of May.Nebraska Children and Family Services (CFS) Director Stephanie Beasley hopes this supplemental allotment will be renewed for additional months, “The impact of extending SNAP allotment funds for the months of March and April was significant," she said. “If Congress continues to give states the ability to extend supplemental SNAP benefits for additional months we will work to make sure it happens here in Nebraska."<figure>
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Supplemental SNAP funds to be issued June 6

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that new directed health measures (DHMs) will take effect on June 1, 2020.&nbsp; “Phase I” reopening DHMs will apply to the Central District Health Department (Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties) and Dakota County.&nbsp; “Phase II” reopening DHMs, which are less restrictive, will apply to the rest of Nebraska.

Steve Martin, Executive Director of the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN, joined the Governor this afternoon.&nbsp; He talked about AFAN’s new grant program to provide food pantries with freezers and refrigerators.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Agriculture, an AFAN member, played a key role in developing the program.&nbsp; AFAN’s cold storage grants will give food pantries greater ability to provide perishable items, like milk or meat, to customers.

Gov. Ricketts: New Directed Health Measures

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I want to thank Nebraskans who have followed our “Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy” over the past two months.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By cooperating together, we’ve made great progress to slow the spread of coronavirus.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, we are announcing changes to the State’s DHMs.&nbsp; They will take effect on June 1, 2020.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Statewide DHM changes

§&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting June 1st, only individuals returning from international travel will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon coming back to Nebraska.

§&nbsp;&nbsp;Team sports have been categorized by contact level based on guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fzudo2rm2lt0jio4%2FClassification%2520of%2520Team%2520Sports%2520According%2520to%2520Contact%2520Level.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618391194&amp;sdata=VyLPilSTVbcOVwqE4JWc6qCGdY3umSRGqfJV3Kll9iE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">available here</a>).&nbsp;

§&nbsp;&nbsp;Limited and non-contact team sports, for both youth and adults, may resume practices on June 1st&nbsp;and games on June 18th.

§&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact sports like basketball, tackle football, soccer, and wrestling remain prohibited.

§&nbsp;&nbsp;Rodeos may also begin on June 1st.&nbsp; Rodeo events will be treated as “gatherings” under the new DHMs.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phase II Reopening DHMs&nbsp;(apply to all counties&nbsp;except&nbsp;for Dakota, Hall, Hamilton and Merrick)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Other group size and physical distancing limitations apply to the gatherings and venues above.&nbsp; For full details of the “Phase II” DHMs,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Few1knz1n4cingvg%2FCOVID-19%2520Outline%2520of%2520Changes%2520to%2520Upcoming%2520DHMs%2520Phase%2520II.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618396161&amp;sdata=gyFhefAyGr3JHj51vmiPNHQn4oF%2BpyMSiyBSXxYRitw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phase I Reopening DHMs&nbsp;(apply to Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties only).

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

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

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

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

Steve Martin: AFAN Food Pantry Grant Program

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to the stresses of coronavirus, the demand on food pantries has skyrocketed.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the same time, dairy producers have had to dump milk due to market disruptions.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A farmer near Wayne had the idea of buying milk to donate to his local food pantry.&nbsp; However, the pantry didn’t have refrigeration for it.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The farmer then worked with his local dairy association to provide refrigeration to the pantry.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AFAN joined forces with Midwest Dairy to create a grant fund for 25 additional food pantries.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These pantries serve over 40,000 people every month.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re now rolling out the grant program statewide.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The grant is up to $4,000 per food pantry to purchase refrigerators and freezers, along with the associated delivery and installation costs.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The grant application is online at our website (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.becomeafan.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618401150&amp;sdata=SLd0TR17NfenWjYqIXZ5i4%2FsdXrxk7PhL5S002dlCzg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.becomeafan.org</a>).&nbsp; The deadline to submit an application is June 22nd.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone interested in donating to help fund the grant program should also visit our website.

Full video of today’s press briefing will is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fr893g7w96tirgtl%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.21.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618406116&amp;sdata=TbiZr3H40Rx0oCGfeIkqOV%2B4OlLGrEeIe9ByEd7ITd4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590106831466.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium) delivers an update at this afternoon’s press conference." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium) delivers an update at this afternoon’s press conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that new directed health measures (DHMs) will take effect on June 1, 2020.&nbsp; “Phase I” reopening DHMs will apply to the Central District Health Department (Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties) and Dakota County.&nbsp; “Phase II” reopening DHMs, which are less restrictive, will apply to the rest of Nebraska.Steve Martin, Executive Director of the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN, joined the Governor this afternoon.&nbsp; He talked about AFAN’s new grant program to provide food pantries with freezers and refrigerators.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Agriculture, an AFAN member, played a key role in developing the program.&nbsp; AFAN’s cold storage grants will give food pantries greater ability to provide perishable items, like milk or meat, to customers.Gov. Ricketts: New Directed Health Measures·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I want to thank Nebraskans who have followed our “Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy” over the past two months.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By cooperating together, we’ve made great progress to slow the spread of coronavirus.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, we are announcing changes to the State’s DHMs.&nbsp; They will take effect on June 1, 2020.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Statewide DHM changeso&nbsp;&nbsp;Travel quarantine§&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting June 1st, only individuals returning from international travel will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon coming back to Nebraska.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Sports§&nbsp;&nbsp;Team sports have been categorized by contact level based on guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fzudo2rm2lt0jio4%2FClassification%2520of%2520Team%2520Sports%2520According%2520to%2520Contact%2520Level.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618391194&amp;sdata=VyLPilSTVbcOVwqE4JWc6qCGdY3umSRGqfJV3Kll9iE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">available here</a>).&nbsp;§&nbsp;&nbsp;Limited and non-contact team sports, for both youth and adults, may resume practices on June 1st&nbsp;and games on June 18th.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact sports like basketball, tackle football, soccer, and wrestling remain prohibited.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Rodeos may also begin on June 1st.&nbsp; Rodeo events will be treated as “gatherings” under the new DHMs.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phase II Reopening DHMs&nbsp;(apply to all counties&nbsp;except&nbsp;for Dakota, Hall, Hamilton and Merrick)o&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings§&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings will be limited to the greater of 25 persons (excluding staff) or 25% of rated occupancy (not to exceed 3,000).o&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants§&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants remain open for dine-in, and bars can reopen.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars and restaurants are limited to 50% of the rated occupancy, with a maximum of six persons per table.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Gyms§&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors§&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Both workers and patrons are still required in the DHM to wear masks at all times.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Wedding and funeral reception venues§&nbsp;&nbsp;Will be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% of rated occupancy.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited. &nbsp;§&nbsp;&nbsp;No dances or other social events that require guests to gather outside of their respective tables are permitted.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Other group size and physical distancing limitations apply to the gatherings and venues above.&nbsp; For full details of the “Phase II” DHMs,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Few1knz1n4cingvg%2FCOVID-19%2520Outline%2520of%2520Changes%2520to%2520Upcoming%2520DHMs%2520Phase%2520II.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618396161&amp;sdata=gyFhefAyGr3JHj51vmiPNHQn4oF%2BpyMSiyBSXxYRitw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phase I Reopening DHMs&nbsp;(apply to Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties only).o&nbsp;&nbsp;Gatherings—including gyms and event venues—remain subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;o&nbsp;&nbsp;Salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors can reopen.&nbsp; They are limited to 10 patrons.&nbsp; Both workers and patrons must be masked.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants can reopen for dine-in, up to 50% capacity, with a maximum of six persons per table.&nbsp; Bars remain closed.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Childcare facilities can have up to 15 kids per room/space, subject to the usual staff-to-child ratios.Steve Martin: AFAN Food Pantry Grant Program·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to the stresses of coronavirus, the demand on food pantries has skyrocketed.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the same time, dairy producers have had to dump milk due to market disruptions.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A farmer near Wayne had the idea of buying milk to donate to his local food pantry.&nbsp; However, the pantry didn’t have refrigeration for it.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The farmer then worked with his local dairy association to provide refrigeration to the pantry.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AFAN joined forces with Midwest Dairy to create a grant fund for 25 additional food pantries.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These pantries serve over 40,000 people every month.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re now rolling out the grant program statewide.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The grant is up to $4,000 per food pantry to purchase refrigerators and freezers, along with the associated delivery and installation costs.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The grant application is online at our website (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.becomeafan.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618401150&amp;sdata=SLd0TR17NfenWjYqIXZ5i4%2FsdXrxk7PhL5S002dlCzg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.becomeafan.org</a>).&nbsp; The deadline to submit an application is June 22nd.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone interested in donating to help fund the grant program should also visit our website.Full video of today’s press briefing will is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fr893g7w96tirgtl%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.21.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C017b93b973d34151ac2708d7fddb8756%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637256991618406116&amp;sdata=TbiZr3H40Rx0oCGfeIkqOV%2B4OlLGrEeIe9ByEd7ITd4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

New Nebraska directed health measures in effect June 1

LINCOLN, Neb.-Authorities have been notified about two inmates who walked away from the Community Corrections Center-Lincoln (CCC-L) early this morning. Ronald Taylor #50231 and Brandon Britton #72081 removed the electronic monitoring devices they were wearing and left them in the area of Highway 77 and West Van Dorn Street in Lincoln.

Taylor began serving his sentence on October 30, 1997. He is serving a sentence of 24 years and nine months to 54 years for convictions out of Custer and Lancaster counties that include escape, possession of a controlled substance, assault by a confined person, theft and possession of methamphetamine. He has a tentative release date of May 14, 2025.

Taylor is a 52-year old white man, 6’2”, 255 lbs., with auburn hair and blue eyes.

Britton started serving a 10-year sentence on January 23, 2018. He has convictions in both Seward and Douglas counties that include first degree assault, methamphetamine charges and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Britton has a tentative release date of February 18, 2023 and a parole eligibility date of February 17, 2023.

Britton is a 43-year old white man, 5’9”, 231 lbs., with brown hair and green eyes.

Anyone with knowledge about the whereabouts of Taylor or Britton should contact local authorities or the Nebraska State Patrol.

CCC-L is one of two community custody facilities operated by NDCS. Community custody is the lowest custody level and the least restrictive facility. Inmates are permitted to participate in work opportunities, attend school and religious services with prior approval and without direct supervision.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590105440902.png" alt="Ronald Taylor" />
 <figcaption>Ronald Taylor</figcaption>
 </figure>NDOC News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-Authorities have been notified about two inmates who walked away from the Community Corrections Center-Lincoln (CCC-L) early this morning. Ronald Taylor #50231 and Brandon Britton #72081 removed the electronic monitoring devices they were wearing and left them in the area of Highway 77 and West Van Dorn Street in Lincoln.Taylor began serving his sentence on October 30, 1997. He is serving a sentence of 24 years and nine months to 54 years for convictions out of Custer and Lancaster counties that include escape, possession of a controlled substance, assault by a confined person, theft and possession of methamphetamine. He has a tentative release date of May 14, 2025.Taylor is a 52-year old white man, 6’2”, 255 lbs., with auburn hair and blue eyes.Britton started serving a 10-year sentence on January 23, 2018. He has convictions in both Seward and Douglas counties that include first degree assault, methamphetamine charges and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Britton has a tentative release date of February 18, 2023 and a parole eligibility date of February 17, 2023.Britton is a 43-year old white man, 5’9”, 231 lbs., with brown hair and green eyes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590105475126.png" alt="Brandon Britton" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Britton</figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone with knowledge about the whereabouts of Taylor or Britton should contact local authorities or the Nebraska State Patrol.CCC-L is one of two community custody facilities operated by NDCS. Community custody is the lowest custody level and the least restrictive facility. Inmates are permitted to participate in work opportunities, attend school and religious services with prior approval and without direct supervision.

Two inmates missing from Community Corrections Center in Lincoln

Public Health Command Center update from North Platte on May 21, 2020.

Public Health Command Center update from North Platte on May 21, 2020.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F1524341254411636%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>

🎥 Public Health Command Center Update from North Platte (May 21, 2020)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska will let bars, zoos, movie theaters and swimming pools reopen and allow small concerts and auctions to resume on June 1 in all but four hard-hit counties, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Thursday as the number of coronavirus deaths continued to rise.

Ricketts announced plans to further loosen social-distancing restrictions, saying he's trying to strike a balance between public health and the need to move back toward normal life as people grow restless.

"We're taking this a step at a time," he said at a news conference.

He made the announcement as state officials reported six more coronavirus deaths and 276 new cases in Nebraska as of Wednesday night, bringing the statewide totals to 138 deaths and 11,122 confirmed cases. Nearly 75,900 people have been tested.

The number of new cases has trended downward, however, since the one-day peak of 677 on May 7. Ricketts has said he's using Nebraska's hospital capacity to judge when to ease restrictions, and those numbers have remained fairly stable. Even so, public health officials say people still need to practice social-distancing measures to keep the virus from spreading.

Businesses that do reopen will still face mandatory social distancing restrictions. For instance, the number of patrons allowed in bars will be limited to half of the venue's rated capacity, and groups of customers will have to remain at least six people apart. Patrons won't be allowed to play pool, darts or arcade games or eat at the bar.

Nebraska will also allow gatherings of up to 25 people or 25% of a venue's rated occupancy, whichever is greater, as long as the total crowd doesn't exceed 3,000 people.

The new requirement will replace the state's current 10-person limit and will apply to both indoor and outdoor venues, including stadiums, fairgrounds, meeting halls, zoos, libraries and swimming pools. Individual groups will still be capped at six people and required to stay away from other groups.

Additionally, any event expected to draw more than 500 people will need prior approval from the county's public health director. In Omaha's Douglas County, the threshold is 1,000 people.

Ricketts will also ease rules for sports, allowing baseball, softball and volleyball teams to resume practices on June 1 and play games on June 18. Rodeos can begin on June 1, but contact sports such as football, basketball and wrestling will remain prohibited.

The changes won't apply to Hall, Hamilton, Merrick or Dakota counties, some of the hardest-hit regions in Nebraska. Hall and Dakota counties have seen particularly large spikes driven by local meatpacking plants.

On Thursday, a coalition of Latino Americans called on Ricketts and local meat packers to do more to protect plant workers who now account for a large share of Nebraska's coronavirus restrictions. Activists said conditions at the plants have generally improved, but they're still hearing reports about inconsistent use of protective equipment at some facilities.

"Unfortunately, these efforts may be seen as too little, too late," said Yolanda Nuncio, a former member of the Nebraska state Latino American Commission. "Some of these plants have not lowered production rates, so when workers go on standard breaks, their coworkers must maintain the same rate of production."

Asked about the criticism on Thursday, Ricketts said he has talked by phone with plant workers and union leaders to discuss their concerns. He also has said that local public health officials from the University of Nebraska Medical Center have gone out to plants to help them establish safety procedures to keep the virus from spreading.

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

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska will let bars, zoos, movie theaters and swimming pools reopen and allow small concerts and auctions to resume on June 1 in all but four hard-hit counties, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Thursday as the number of coronavirus deaths continued to rise.Ricketts announced plans to further loosen social-distancing restrictions, saying he's trying to strike a balance between public health and the need to move back toward normal life as people grow restless."We're taking this a step at a time," he said at a news conference.He made the announcement as state officials reported six more coronavirus deaths and 276 new cases in Nebraska as of Wednesday night, bringing the statewide totals to 138 deaths and 11,122 confirmed cases. Nearly 75,900 people have been tested.The number of new cases has trended downward, however, since the one-day peak of 677 on May 7. Ricketts has said he's using Nebraska's hospital capacity to judge when to ease restrictions, and those numbers have remained fairly stable. Even so, public health officials say people still need to practice social-distancing measures to keep the virus from spreading.Businesses that do reopen will still face mandatory social distancing restrictions. For instance, the number of patrons allowed in bars will be limited to half of the venue's rated capacity, and groups of customers will have to remain at least six people apart. Patrons won't be allowed to play pool, darts or arcade games or eat at the bar.Nebraska will also allow gatherings of up to 25 people or 25% of a venue's rated occupancy, whichever is greater, as long as the total crowd doesn't exceed 3,000 people.The new requirement will replace the state's current 10-person limit and will apply to both indoor and outdoor venues, including stadiums, fairgrounds, meeting halls, zoos, libraries and swimming pools. Individual groups will still be capped at six people and required to stay away from other groups.Additionally, any event expected to draw more than 500 people will need prior approval from the county's public health director. In Omaha's Douglas County, the threshold is 1,000 people.Ricketts will also ease rules for sports, allowing baseball, softball and volleyball teams to resume practices on June 1 and play games on June 18. Rodeos can begin on June 1, but contact sports such as football, basketball and wrestling will remain prohibited.The changes won't apply to Hall, Hamilton, Merrick or Dakota counties, some of the hardest-hit regions in Nebraska. Hall and Dakota counties have seen particularly large spikes driven by local meatpacking plants.On Thursday, a coalition of Latino Americans called on Ricketts and local meat packers to do more to protect plant workers who now account for a large share of Nebraska's coronavirus restrictions. Activists said conditions at the plants have generally improved, but they're still hearing reports about inconsistent use of protective equipment at some facilities."Unfortunately, these efforts may be seen as too little, too late," said Yolanda Nuncio, a former member of the Nebraska state Latino American Commission. "Some of these plants have not lowered production rates, so when workers go on standard breaks, their coworkers must maintain the same rate of production."Asked about the criticism on Thursday, Ricketts said he has talked by phone with plant workers and union leaders to discuss their concerns. He also has said that local public health officials from the University of Nebraska Medical Center have gone out to plants to help them establish safety procedures to keep the virus from spreading.For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

Nebraska to loosen more coronavirus restrictions in June

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-It's Memorial Day weekend, but those outdoor plans may look a little, or a lot different this year.

Nebraska Public Power District is reminding the public of several restrictions that are in place amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The District says day use is allowed at NPPD recreation areas, but there is no overnight camping. A popular hangout at Lake Maloney, South Beach, will also be closed this weekend.

The public is reminded to practice safe social distancing and to obey posted regulations.

If you have questions about campground restrictions, contact the <a href="http://outdoornebraska.gov/">Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.</a>

News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-It's Memorial Day weekend, but those outdoor plans may look a little, or a lot different this year.Nebraska Public Power District is reminding the public of several restrictions that are in place amid the coronavirus outbreak.The District says day use is allowed at NPPD recreation areas, but there is no overnight camping. A popular hangout at Lake Maloney, South Beach, will also be closed this weekend.The public is reminded to practice safe social distancing and to obey posted regulations.If you have questions about campground restrictions, contact the <a href="http://outdoornebraska.gov/">Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.</a><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnebraskapublicpowerdistrict%2Fposts%2F10157035357836776&width=500" width="500" height="552" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

NPPD: South Beach at Lake Maloney closed, other restrictions in place for holiday weekend

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–&nbsp;As COVID-19 continues to interrupt our daily routines and cause financial uncertainty, Farm Bureau Financial Services is pleased to announce our plan to refund 15% of Farm Bureau Member’s Choice personal auto premiums for the period of March 14, 2020, through May 31, 2020, to policyholders.

“Our client/members are driving less, and we’ve seen fewer claims, so we want to refund auto premium. The giveback represents the largest return of premium in our history. For over 80 years, client/members have relied on us to protect their livelihoods and futures, and to be there when they need us most. There are a lot of unknowns right now, but one thing is certain – we’re here for them.” said Dan Pitcher, Chief Executive Officer.

Client/members do not need to take any action. The premium refund will be distributed as a credit toward auto insurance premium due, electronic funds transfer (EFT, or a check, beginning June 8.

Farm Bureau is providing additional support to its client/members through temporary billing adjustments, flexible payment options, and waiving late fees for those who have been financially impacted by the coronavirus.

Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbfs.com/covid-19-resources" target="_blank">https://www.fbfs.com/covid-19-resources</a>.

News ReleaseWEST DES MOINES, Iowa–&nbsp;As COVID-19 continues to interrupt our daily routines and cause financial uncertainty, Farm Bureau Financial Services is pleased to announce our plan to refund 15% of Farm Bureau Member’s Choice personal auto premiums for the period of March 14, 2020, through May 31, 2020, to policyholders.“Our client/members are driving less, and we’ve seen fewer claims, so we want to refund auto premium. The giveback represents the largest return of premium in our history. For over 80 years, client/members have relied on us to protect their livelihoods and futures, and to be there when they need us most. There are a lot of unknowns right now, but one thing is certain – we’re here for them.” said Dan Pitcher, Chief Executive Officer.Client/members do not need to take any action. The premium refund will be distributed as a credit toward auto insurance premium due, electronic funds transfer (EFT, or a check, beginning June 8.Farm Bureau is providing additional support to its client/members through temporary billing adjustments, flexible payment options, and waiving late fees for those who have been financially impacted by the coronavirus.Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbfs.com/covid-19-resources" target="_blank">https://www.fbfs.com/covid-19-resources</a>.

Farm Bureau Financial Services returning auto premiums to client/members

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw another dip in new unemployment claims last week after a record-setting surge driven by the coronavirus pandemic, according to new data released Thursday.

The state received 5,923 claims during the week that ended May 16, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Nebraska reported 6,362 new claims the prior week.

The number has declined since a record-setting surge that peaked at 26,788 in one week in early April. It's still much higher than average.

Unemployment soared in Nebraska and nationally due to state-mandated social distancing restrictions on businesses as well as Americans who are staying sheltered at home to avoid spreading the coronavirus. Some businesses closed while others have had scale back their operations and lay off employees.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw another dip in new unemployment claims last week after a record-setting surge driven by the coronavirus pandemic, according to new data released Thursday.The state received 5,923 claims during the week that ended May 16, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Nebraska reported 6,362 new claims the prior week.The number has declined since a record-setting surge that peaked at 26,788 in one week in early April. It's still much higher than average.Unemployment soared in Nebraska and nationally due to state-mandated social distancing restrictions on businesses as well as Americans who are staying sheltered at home to avoid spreading the coronavirus. Some businesses closed while others have had scale back their operations and lay off employees.

New Nebraska jobless claim drop again after record surge

CHADRON, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has new data for a cat that triggers a lot of discussion, yet is rarely seen. It’s the puma, the cougar, or as most people call it, the mountain lion.

Sam Wilson, the furbearer and carnivore program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, reported updates for the states’ management of the species during the agency’s May 8 commissioners meeting. The report included a new population figure for the Pine Ridge, the region in which cougars have re-established themselves in Nebraska for the longest time.

While the agency doesn’t have scientific estimates for populations in the Wildcat Hills, Niobrara Valley or the entire state, Wilson said the research projects in the Pine Ridge, which include both the Capwire and mark-recapture methods, have resulted in reliable scientific-based estimates of mountain lions for that region. The 2019 surveys arrived at a population estimate of 34 in the Pine Ridge, down from 59 in 2017. The new population figure reflects five mountain lions per 100 square kilometers of suitable habitat for the species. Wilson said the goal is five to seven.

“We wanted to bring that population down because the density was higher in the Pine Ridge than it was in most of the Mountain West states where mountain lions are hunted,” he said.

One important component of managing mountain lions in Nebraska is the hunting season, which ran from Jan. 2 to March 31 in the Pine Ridge. It marked the third regulated hunting season for the species in Nebraska. The season had a quota of eight total cats, with no more than two females allowed for harvest in each of the two designated subunits. The 398 permit holders harvested seven cats, the most of any of the state’s three seasons. Five were harvested in 2019 and three in 2014.

This year’s total consisted of five males and two females. One of those toms was 7 years old and 171 pounds – the largest of any cat taken during Nebraska’s three hunting seasons.

Wilson said Game and Parks plans to keep a close watch on the species, which the Nebraska Legislature has classified as a game animal, and continue making management decisions based on science. The state’s management plan states that Nebraska will have resilient and socially acceptable mountain lion populations that are in balance with habitat and other wildlife populations. The next round of surveys in the Pine Ridge is scheduled for 2021.

“We’re going to continue managing mountain lions as a game animal, so that will include harvest seasons when it’s appropriate to meet our management goals,” Wilson said.

More details are in Wilson’s presentation at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website for the species,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjEuMjE4NTIzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9tb3VudGFpbmxpb25zLyJ9.uWjfU_olEcH9hDDsy1FzLlT5U_nsdC2liGBli3fp4_U/br/78946141861-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org/mountainlions</a>.

Editor's Note:&nbsp;

This article was produced as part of Justin Haag's Panhandle Afield blog and podcast, available at&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalandmagazine.com/" target="_blank">nebraskalandmagazine.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090286658.png" alt="A mountain lion perches on a log at a creek bottom in the Pine Ridge of Sheridan County. (Nebraskaland/Justin Haag)" />
 <figcaption>A mountain lion perches on a log at a creek bottom in the Pine Ridge of Sheridan County. (Nebraskaland/Justin Haag)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has new data for a cat that triggers a lot of discussion, yet is rarely seen. It’s the puma, the cougar, or as most people call it, the mountain lion.Sam Wilson, the furbearer and carnivore program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, reported updates for the states’ management of the species during the agency’s May 8 commissioners meeting. The report included a new population figure for the Pine Ridge, the region in which cougars have re-established themselves in Nebraska for the longest time.While the agency doesn’t have scientific estimates for populations in the Wildcat Hills, Niobrara Valley or the entire state, Wilson said the research projects in the Pine Ridge, which include both the Capwire and mark-recapture methods, have resulted in reliable scientific-based estimates of mountain lions for that region. The 2019 surveys arrived at a population estimate of 34 in the Pine Ridge, down from 59 in 2017. The new population figure reflects five mountain lions per 100 square kilometers of suitable habitat for the species. Wilson said the goal is five to seven.“We wanted to bring that population down because the density was higher in the Pine Ridge than it was in most of the Mountain West states where mountain lions are hunted,” he said.One important component of managing mountain lions in Nebraska is the hunting season, which ran from Jan. 2 to March 31 in the Pine Ridge. It marked the third regulated hunting season for the species in Nebraska. The season had a quota of eight total cats, with no more than two females allowed for harvest in each of the two designated subunits. The 398 permit holders harvested seven cats, the most of any of the state’s three seasons. Five were harvested in 2019 and three in 2014.This year’s total consisted of five males and two females. One of those toms was 7 years old and 171 pounds – the largest of any cat taken during Nebraska’s three hunting seasons.Wilson said Game and Parks plans to keep a close watch on the species, which the Nebraska Legislature has classified as a game animal, and continue making management decisions based on science. The state’s management plan states that Nebraska will have resilient and socially acceptable mountain lion populations that are in balance with habitat and other wildlife populations. The next round of surveys in the Pine Ridge is scheduled for 2021.“We’re going to continue managing mountain lions as a game animal, so that will include harvest seasons when it’s appropriate to meet our management goals,” Wilson said.More details are in Wilson’s presentation at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website for the species,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA1MjEuMjE4NTIzMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9tb3VudGFpbmxpb25zLyJ9.uWjfU_olEcH9hDDsy1FzLlT5U_nsdC2liGBli3fp4_U/br/78946141861-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.org/mountainlions</a>.Editor's Note:&nbsp;

This article was produced as part of Justin Haag's Panhandle Afield blog and podcast, available at&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalandmagazine.com/" target="_blank">nebraskalandmagazine.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New mountain lion data for the Pine Ridge

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A new survey of bankers in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states inched upward in May from April's record low, but still remained profoundly low as efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the rural economy.

The overall index for the region rose slightly to 12.5 from April's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/df2d8076ff7964b13c4b4e547e583256" target="_blank">record low</a>&nbsp;of 12.1. Any score below 50 suggests a shrinking economy, while a score above 50 suggests a growing economy, survey organizers say.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, said nearly three of every four bankers surveyed reported restructuring farm loans to deal with weak farm income.

"As a result of the restructuring, bank CEOs expect farm loan defaults to expand by only 5.4% in the next 12 months," Goss said.

The survey's confidence index, which measures how bankers feel about the economy over the next six months, sank to 22.1 from April's 27.4 based on bankers' observations of weak agriculture commodity prices and layoffs.

The borrowing index slipped to 72.2 from April's 75.8.

Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A new survey of bankers in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states inched upward in May from April's record low, but still remained profoundly low as efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the rural economy.The overall index for the region rose slightly to 12.5 from April's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/df2d8076ff7964b13c4b4e547e583256" target="_blank">record low</a>&nbsp;of 12.1. Any score below 50 suggests a shrinking economy, while a score above 50 suggests a growing economy, survey organizers say.Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey, said nearly three of every four bankers surveyed reported restructuring farm loans to deal with weak farm income."As a result of the restructuring, bank CEOs expect farm loan defaults to expand by only 5.4% in the next 12 months," Goss said.The survey's confidence index, which measures how bankers feel about the economy over the next six months, sank to 22.1 from April's 27.4 based on bankers' observations of weak agriculture commodity prices and layoffs.The borrowing index slipped to 72.2 from April's 75.8.Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

Rural bankers survey index remains low in face of outbreak

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Six more residents have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and the state confirmed another 276 cases as of Wednesday, officials said.

The new numbers bring the total number of deaths statewide to 138 and the number of confirmed cases to 11,122. Nearly 75,900 people have been tested.

The number of new patients has been trending downward since a peak of 677 new cases on May 7, but public health officials say it's vital people continue precautions such as social distancing remain vital.

Nebraska's hospital capacity for treating patients with the virus is fairly stable. The state's hospitals report that 44% of their beds, 38% of their intensive care unit beds and 78% of their ventilators are available for use if needed.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Six more residents have died from the coronavirus in Nebraska and the state confirmed another 276 cases as of Wednesday, officials said.The new numbers bring the total number of deaths statewide to 138 and the number of confirmed cases to 11,122. Nearly 75,900 people have been tested.The number of new patients has been trending downward since a peak of 677 new cases on May 7, but public health officials say it's vital people continue precautions such as social distancing remain vital.Nebraska's hospital capacity for treating patients with the virus is fairly stable. The state's hospitals report that 44% of their beds, 38% of their intensive care unit beds and 78% of their ventilators are available for use if needed.For some infected people, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe illness or death. But for most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

Nebraska sees 6 more coronavirus deaths, 276 new cases

Scotty C talks with Great Plains Health President and CEO Mel McNea about the hospital's current situation with COVID-19, reopening and the staff at Great Plains Health.

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Scotty C visits with the new City Administrator for North Platte Matthew Kibbon who replaced Jim Hawks who is retiring. Get to know Matt and learn a little bit about his vision for North Platte.

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