A letter from Germany was sent to the Alliance Police Department thanking Sgt. James Grumbles for his services during an accident he helped with.&nbsp;

The Alliance Police Department said in a facebook&nbsp; post, "GOOD NEWS ISN'T ALWAYS EASY TO FIND. THESE DAYS, IT SEEMS EVEN MORE DIFFICULT THAN USUAL. BUT EVERY NOW AND THEN, A STORY COMES TO US THAT'S JUST TOO GOOD TO KEEP TO OURSELVES. THE FOLLOWING LETTER WAS SENT ALL THE WAY FROM GERMANY TO OUR VERY OWN SERGEANT GRUMBLES. THANKS TO VOLKER M. FOR SHARING HIS STORY WITH US, AND TO SERGEANT GRUMBLES FOR HIS SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY."

Hello Mister Sergeant James Grumbles, maybe you remember us. My name is Volker, I had a car accident with my son Carlo in your city in 2019. We were really shocked at the time, we needed help that you gave us. We were unsettled, because in a foreign country that doesn't speak 100 percent of the language, suddenly being in such a situation is not easy. It was a nice and important feeling that you were there for us, accompanied and helped us, also verbally and with a cold Coke. Sergeant Grumbles gave my son a metal badge from [his] police station at the time, signed it. It has an honorable place with Carlo, it means a lot to him. Carlo and I often talk about this situation, just yesterday he said: "Hopefully the policeman and his family are doing well." Therefore we are writing these lines to you. At the moment the world situation is really not easy, we hope that you and your family will be spared from Corona! Take care, because we need such good people as you! They don't just do their job, they also show heart and willingness to help - thank you for that! Greetings from Germany. Volker and Carlo

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostA letter from Germany was sent to the Alliance Police Department thanking Sgt. James Grumbles for his services during an accident he helped with.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589213443230.jpeg" alt="Sgt. James Grumbles (Courtesy photo from APD)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. James Grumbles (Courtesy photo from APD)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Police Department said in a facebook&nbsp; post, "GOOD NEWS ISN'T ALWAYS EASY TO FIND. THESE DAYS, IT SEEMS EVEN MORE DIFFICULT THAN USUAL. BUT EVERY NOW AND THEN, A STORY COMES TO US THAT'S JUST TOO GOOD TO KEEP TO OURSELVES. THE FOLLOWING LETTER WAS SENT ALL THE WAY FROM GERMANY TO OUR VERY OWN SERGEANT GRUMBLES. THANKS TO VOLKER M. FOR SHARING HIS STORY WITH US, AND TO SERGEANT GRUMBLES FOR HIS SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY."Below is the letter sent to the APD.Hello Mister Sergeant James Grumbles, maybe you remember us. My name is Volker, I had a car accident with my son Carlo in your city in 2019. We were really shocked at the time, we needed help that you gave us. We were unsettled, because in a foreign country that doesn't speak 100 percent of the language, suddenly being in such a situation is not easy. It was a nice and important feeling that you were there for us, accompanied and helped us, also verbally and with a cold Coke. Sergeant Grumbles gave my son a metal badge from [his] police station at the time, signed it. It has an honorable place with Carlo, it means a lot to him. Carlo and I often talk about this situation, just yesterday he said: "Hopefully the policeman and his family are doing well." Therefore we are writing these lines to you. At the moment the world situation is really not easy, we hope that you and your family will be spared from Corona! Take care, because we need such good people as you! They don't just do their job, they also show heart and willingness to help - thank you for that! Greetings from Germany. Volker and Carlo

German family thanks Alliance Police Sgt. Grumbles for services

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) added hospitalization data to its COVID-19 dashboard. DHHS launched the dashboard in March as an informational resource for Nebraskans. It also provides daily updates to the state's COVID-19 case totals along with other pertinent data. &nbsp;&nbsp;The dashboard is both desktop and mobile friendly and can be found by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. &nbsp;

The dashboard is one of many valuable COVID-19 resources, including translated materials, on the DHHS coronavirus website. Interested Nebraskans can subscribe on the website and receive an alert via email when new information is posted. As of mid-April, more than 8,900 people had subscribed.

Here's a sample of some of the helpful information you will find at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>:

Information is also available through other routes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589210783404.png" alt="Click <a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html?fbclid=IwAR3JPgNOJTe901lO4CE0MGeMVrY1dzZaCkW_cXK16uuKFgdPF0BTTdCe4Ps#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3">HERE</a> to view the map (screenshot)." />
 <figcaption>Click <a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html?fbclid=IwAR3JPgNOJTe901lO4CE0MGeMVrY1dzZaCkW_cXK16uuKFgdPF0BTTdCe4Ps#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3">HERE</a> to view the map (screenshot).</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) added hospitalization data to its COVID-19 dashboard. DHHS launched the dashboard in March as an informational resource for Nebraskans. It also provides daily updates to the state's COVID-19 case totals along with other pertinent data. &nbsp;&nbsp;The dashboard is both desktop and mobile friendly and can be found by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. &nbsp;The dashboard is one of many valuable COVID-19 resources, including translated materials, on the DHHS coronavirus website. Interested Nebraskans can subscribe on the website and receive an alert via email when new information is posted. As of mid-April, more than 8,900 people had subscribed.Here's a sample of some of the helpful information you will find at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>:<ol>
 <li>Directed Health Measures (DHM) - All 93 counties in Nebraska are covered by state Directed Health Measures. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. In addition to the state-issued DHM, some local health departments have issued additional restrictions.</li><li>Guidance Documents&nbsp;– An extensive list of downloadable Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs, testing information and executive orders.</li><li>Protect Yourself and Others&nbsp;– Ten actions Nebraskans can be taking now to slow the spread of COVID-19 along with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for individuals, businesses and communities.</li><li>Traveler Recommendations&nbsp;– Recommendations for Nebraskans returning from out-of-state or travelers arriving from out-of-state.</li><li>Nebraska Accommodation Project (NAP)&nbsp;– This program initially offered accommodations to first responders to quarantine at participating hotels in an effort to protect their families from potential exposure. Recently the pilot program expanded to offer space for members of the public who are required to quarantine or isolate because of COVID-19.</li><li>News Releases&nbsp;– Find links to all DHHS COVID-19 news releases and in cooperation with other agencies fighting the coronavirus.</li><li>CDC Information&nbsp;– Get the latest updates from the CDC.</li>
 </ol>Information is also available through other routes.<ol>
 <li>DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Central Time, 7 days a week.</li><li>DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook&nbsp;and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a reliable resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.</li>
 </ol>

DHHS expands COVID-19 dashboard to include hospitalizations 

LINCOLN, Neb. – It is natural for some people who see a young wild animal apparently abandoned by its mother to want to rescue it. The correct course of action is to leave it alone.

Here are some rules of thumb from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regarding wildlife babies:

-- A lone fawn, or other young bird or mammal, may appear to be abandoned or injured, but the mother frequently is off feeding or drinking. Do not move it. The longer the fawn is separated from its mother, the slimmer the chance that it will be reunited with her. In some cases, other deer will adopt an orphaned fawn.

-- It is normal for a doe to leave its fawn to keep it from being detected by predators. Predators can see the doe as it feeds, so she leaves the fawn hidden and leaves the area to draw attention away from the fawn's location.

-- Do not try to raise wildlife babies as pets. As animals mature, they become more independent and follow natural instincts to leave and establish their own territories. Rescued animals are poorly prepared for life in the wild.

-- Most wildlife babies are protected by state or federal law and it is illegal to possess them.

LINCOLN, Neb. – It is natural for some people who see a young wild animal apparently abandoned by its mother to want to rescue it. The correct course of action is to leave it alone.Here are some rules of thumb from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regarding wildlife babies:-- A lone fawn, or other young bird or mammal, may appear to be abandoned or injured, but the mother frequently is off feeding or drinking. Do not move it. The longer the fawn is separated from its mother, the slimmer the chance that it will be reunited with her. In some cases, other deer will adopt an orphaned fawn.-- It is normal for a doe to leave its fawn to keep it from being detected by predators. Predators can see the doe as it feeds, so she leaves the fawn hidden and leaves the area to draw attention away from the fawn's location.-- Do not try to raise wildlife babies as pets. As animals mature, they become more independent and follow natural instincts to leave and establish their own territories. Rescued animals are poorly prepared for life in the wild.-- Most wildlife babies are protected by state or federal law and it is illegal to possess them.

Public urged to leave wildlife babies alone

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Two deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Sunday.

A second death was reported to DHHS. More information is forthcoming.

Further information is available related to a death reported by DHHS yesterday evening. The deceased individual was from Douglas County -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news&nbsp;</a>

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 98, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time, is 8,315. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.

Governor Pete Ricketts has announced changes to some of the state's Directed Health Measures, including re-openings of selected businesses in specific regions of Nebraska. The new DHM updates can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.dropbox.com/sh/iuwv40yommq81m3/AAAYgdnJYg3wWuwiPxPL8SEpa?dl%3D0&amp;data=02%7c01%7ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7c8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637239703574159964&amp;sdata=N4cPCE72MC6uRzEaRW%2BXn/q%2BiR7Udr7mUd2Pwvv8lPU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp; Not sure which local health department is yours? A map is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/NE_Health_Dept_Map_Dec_2016.pdf">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.

Governor Ricketts recently announced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. TestNebraska launched last week in Grand Island, Omaha and Lincoln. Additional mobile testing sites are expected to become available shortly.

The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment, participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>. Because people can develop symptoms quickly, Nebraskans are asked to update their assessments from time to time as needed.

DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;

Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.

Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.

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://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645 or toll-free at (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Two deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Sunday.One death was a Douglas County resident.A second death was reported to DHHS. More information is forthcoming.Further information is available related to a death reported by DHHS yesterday evening. The deceased individual was from Douglas County -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news&nbsp;</a>The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 98, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time, is 8,315. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.Governor Pete Ricketts has announced changes to some of the state's Directed Health Measures, including re-openings of selected businesses in specific regions of Nebraska. The new DHM updates can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.dropbox.com/sh/iuwv40yommq81m3/AAAYgdnJYg3wWuwiPxPL8SEpa?dl%3D0&amp;data=02%7c01%7ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7c8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7c043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7c0%7c0%7c637239703574159964&amp;sdata=N4cPCE72MC6uRzEaRW%2BXn/q%2BiR7Udr7mUd2Pwvv8lPU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp; Not sure which local health department is yours? A map is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/NE_Health_Dept_Map_Dec_2016.pdf">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.Governor Ricketts recently announced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. TestNebraska launched last week in Grand Island, Omaha and Lincoln. Additional mobile testing sites are expected to become available shortly.The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment, participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>. Because people can develop symptoms quickly, Nebraskans are asked to update their assessments from time to time as needed.DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.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://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645 or toll-free at (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

2 COVID-19 related deaths reported in Nebraska on Sunday

As businesses reopen, new opportunities may be available

MANHATTAN — As stay-at-home orders end and stores begin to reopen, the leader of one of the state’s leading rural development organizations says it is a time for business owners to reconsider their strategy as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I call it the three Rs: Re-orientation, re-energizing, and resilience,” said Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development with K-State Research and Extension.

“Customer expectations and worker expectations have changed. As businesses reopen, owners need to re-orient their business plans and facilities to assure a higher level of disease protection. This means providing physical barriers, arranging for adequate spacing, providing masks to employees, and emphasizing constant sanitation, as many ongoing businesses have done.”

Business owners should be sure to carefully comply with local health department directives, he said.

“The second ‘R’ is re-energizing,” Wilson said. “It will be important to rebuild the local economy as quickly as possible, while following the phased guidelines for reopening.”

Many supply chains have been disrupted in the short-term, but markets are adjusting. “We believe there will be pent-up demand for certain products, and we encourage businesses to advertise, hire staff, and continue to emphasize customer service,” he said.

“Resilience has to do with planning for the long-term,” Wilson said, noting that the challenges posed by the pandemic and the resulting policy response have demonstrated the importance of communication between a business and its suppliers and lenders.

In the future, businesses might also wish to pursue improving their online presence and ordering systems, for example. “Business owners should always be thinking about building relationships and positioning themselves for the future,” Wilson said.

He added that businesses should take direction on local policies from each county and its health department.&nbsp;Information on best practices for reopening can also be accessed from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/foodsafety/topics/doc/KSRE-best-practices-reopen.pdf">K-State Research and Extension</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf">Occupational Safety and Health Administration</a>, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/covid-19-response">Kansas Department of Commerce</a>.

“Main street businesses face a lot of challenges,” Wilson said. “The economy will benefit if consumers support those businesses as they move carefully to reopen.”

<h2>As businesses reopen, new opportunities may be available</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN — As stay-at-home orders end and stores begin to reopen, the leader of one of the state’s leading rural development organizations says it is a time for business owners to reconsider their strategy as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.“I call it the three Rs: Re-orientation, re-energizing, and resilience,” said Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development with K-State Research and Extension.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141281633.png" alt="Wilson" />
 <figcaption>Wilson</figcaption>
 </figure>“Customer expectations and worker expectations have changed. As businesses reopen, owners need to re-orient their business plans and facilities to assure a higher level of disease protection. This means providing physical barriers, arranging for adequate spacing, providing masks to employees, and emphasizing constant sanitation, as many ongoing businesses have done.”Business owners should be sure to carefully comply with local health department directives, he said.“The second ‘R’ is re-energizing,” Wilson said. “It will be important to rebuild the local economy as quickly as possible, while following the phased guidelines for reopening.”Many supply chains have been disrupted in the short-term, but markets are adjusting. “We believe there will be pent-up demand for certain products, and we encourage businesses to advertise, hire staff, and continue to emphasize customer service,” he said.“Resilience has to do with planning for the long-term,” Wilson said, noting that the challenges posed by the pandemic and the resulting policy response have demonstrated the importance of communication between a business and its suppliers and lenders.In the future, businesses might also wish to pursue improving their online presence and ordering systems, for example. “Business owners should always be thinking about building relationships and positioning themselves for the future,” Wilson said.He added that businesses should take direction on local policies from each county and its health department.&nbsp;Information on best practices for reopening can also be accessed from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/foodsafety/topics/doc/KSRE-best-practices-reopen.pdf">K-State Research and Extension</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf">Occupational Safety and Health Administration</a>, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/covid-19-response">Kansas Department of Commerce</a>.“Main street businesses face a lot of challenges,” Wilson said. “The economy will benefit if consumers support those businesses as they move carefully to reopen.”

Rural businesses should consider post-COVID-19 strategies

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Health officials say the number of coronavirus cases in Nebraska has topped 8,000, and four more deaths related to COVID-19 have been reported.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said the number of coronavirus cases in the state increased by 403 on Saturday to 8,234. The number of deaths related to the virus outbreak increased to 96. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.

One of the new deaths was a Douglas County man in his 60s who did not have any underlying health conditions. Details of the other three deaths weren't immediately available.

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.

State officials also said that a staff member at the Nebraska Correctional Services Department's Staff Training Academy has tested positive for the coronavirus. To date, eight Corrections employees, including six who work at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln, have tested positive.

Department Director Scott Frakes said three inmates at the state prison are being tested and have bee segregated from other inmates because they had close contact with a staff member who tested positive for the virus. These three tests are the first administered to state inmates.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Health officials say the number of coronavirus cases in Nebraska has topped 8,000, and four more deaths related to COVID-19 have been reported.The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said the number of coronavirus cases in the state increased by 403 on Saturday to 8,234. The number of deaths related to the virus outbreak increased to 96. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.One of the new deaths was a Douglas County man in his 60s who did not have any underlying health conditions. Details of the other three deaths weren't immediately available.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.State officials also said that a staff member at the Nebraska Correctional Services Department's Staff Training Academy has tested positive for the coronavirus. To date, eight Corrections employees, including six who work at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln, have tested positive.Department Director Scott Frakes said three inmates at the state prison are being tested and have bee segregated from other inmates because they had close contact with a staff member who tested positive for the virus. These three tests are the first administered to state inmates.

Nebraska reports 8,234 coronavirus cases, 4 new deaths

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - One person died after two vehicles collided east of Scottsbluff.

The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's office said the crash happened around 9 a.m. Saturday on Highland Road about 3.5 miles east of Scottsbluff. The sheriff's office said an eastbound vehicle crossed the center line and collided with a westbound vehicle.

One person died in the crash and another person was seriously injured and taken to the hospital in Scottsbluff.

Officials didn't immediately release the names of the drivers involved in the crash.

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - One person died after two vehicles collided east of Scottsbluff.The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's office said the crash happened around 9 a.m. Saturday on Highland Road about 3.5 miles east of Scottsbluff. The sheriff's office said an eastbound vehicle crossed the center line and collided with a westbound vehicle.One person died in the crash and another person was seriously injured and taken to the hospital in Scottsbluff.Officials didn't immediately release the names of the drivers involved in the crash.

1 person dies in rural collision near Scottsbluff

By BECCY TANNER &amp; The Journal <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-06/struggling-rural-grocery-stores-get-coronavirus-bump-but-worry-if-it-will-last">Kansas News Service</a>

The past couple of decades have been tough on small, rural grocery 
stores that often struggle to keep doors open as locals forgo hometown 
stores for shopping sprees in larger stores in bigger towns.

That 
is until 5 p.m. on March 11, 2020, two days after a historic drop in the
 stock market, which would only fall further in the days to come.

Jordan White remembers exactly what happened then.

“There began a little bit of frenzy buying,” says White, the operations manager of the company that operates<a href="https://www.whitesfoodliner.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.whitesfoodliner.com/" target="_blank">White’s Foodliner</a> stores in Kingman, Medicine Lodge,<a href="https://klcjournal.com/st-john-kansas-rural-grocery/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://klcjournal.com/st-john-kansas-rural-grocery/" target="_blank">St. John</a>, Phillipsburg and Scott City.

But at 5 p.m. on March 11, customers began flocking into White’s stores.

“Things
 got started. By Friday the 13th and that weekend, I am going to call it
 frenzy buying for toilet paper. It was all over the country, from store
 to store,” he said. “Our Kingman store had 17 pallets of toilet paper 
stored above our freezer and someone from Wichita posted about it on 
Facebook. Then, it was mass chaos. People were trying to get toilet 
paper and essentials. The following week was more like a steady 
Christmas week.”

It’s been an uptick in business ever since.

And it’s a story resonating across Kansas –<a href="https://nyti.ms/2Xy4Fia" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://nyti.ms/2Xy4Fia" target="_blank">and the nation</a>.

“You
 are hearing about stores doing 300% more business,” White says. 
“Obviously, we are not seeing that, because it has bounced across the 
board, depending on the location. Some of our stores are up only 25% in 
business and some are 100%. It is different week by week. It is also a 
false sense of improved business, because you are selling at a lower 
margin. We don’t make a lot of money on canned food, toilet paper and 
diapers. So, while you may have a lot more sales in the rural 
independent grocery stores right now, they aren’t exactly profitable 
sales.”

Rial Carver, program manager for the<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/cecd/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.k-state.edu/cecd/" target="_blank">Center for Engagement and Community Development at Kansas State University</a>, said she’s hearing how<a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/" target="_blank">local stores</a>
 across the state are adapting during the pandemic. Some are closing 
their doors and offering only delivery and pickup services — such as the
 St. Paul Supermarket and Cecil K’s Hometown Market in Holton — to keep 
both their employees and customers safe.

“The reality that grocery
 stores are facing right now is that they are swamped – that’s something
 that is happening everywhere,” Carver says. “What I have seen is that 
some of these small-town grocers have a little bit of an edge because 
they are able to adapt quickly and implement new processes for ordering 
or for delivery. They also have closer ties to their community. And, 
some stores are working with volunteers to help make this new normal a 
reality.”

They’re getting a helping hand from their communities. 
Sheriff’s departments in Bourbon, Greenwood and Osage counties are 
offering grocery delivery to residents who shop at local stores.

Community groups in Trego County are partnering with<a href="https://www.malaysmarket.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.malaysmarket.com/" target="_blank">Malay’s Market</a> in WaKeeney to offer family food boxes. And some offer remote shopping by phone, email and Facebook Messenger, Carver said.

Stacie Schmidt, executive director of<a href="http://www.ellsworthcounty.org/County_departments/economic_development/index.php" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.ellsworthcounty.org/County_departments/economic_development/index.php" target="_blank">Ellsworth County Economic Development</a>, said<a href="https://heartlandfoodsstores.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://heartlandfoodsstores.com/" target="_blank">Gene’s Heartland Foods</a>
 in her community started by offering curbside delivery and call-in 
orders to reduce foot traffic and keep the community and staff safe.

Fearing
 that it would be difficult to efficiently take phone orders, shop for 
people, stock shelves, clean and provide check-out services all at once,
 Ellsworth County Economic Development stepped in and worked with the 
store to launch<a href="http://www.genesclicklist.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.genesclicklist.com/" target="_blank">Gene’s Click List</a>, which allows for online ordering.

Schmidt said the system is working well for customers and helping to keep staff healthy by reducing traffic in the store.

“This
 is a way of thinking adaptively to solve challenges (with technical 
solutions) and a great way of collaboration and partnerships,” Schmidt 
says.

It’s a big moment for small-town stores, said Daniel Gile, store manager at<a href="https://www.gwfoodsinc.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.gwfoodsinc.com/" target="_blank">G&amp;W Foods</a> in Iola.

“We
 have never seen anything like it,” Gile says. “It is just 
unprecedented. I assumed it would taper off at some point, and it has 
not. When the governor issued that stay-at-home order on March 28, that 
was by far the busiest day we had. There was a lot of panic and fear — 
just fear of the unknown and that people might be stuck at home and they
 didn’t have enough groceries.”

It is not unusual, Gile said, to 
have a customer or two come in and do a month’s worth of shopping. But 
in these COVID-19 days and times, “it is not uncommon to see $400 to 
$500 orders. We are seeing that repetitively.”

And some customers are driving 70 to 90 miles to shop, Gile said.

“I
 was told a couple came down from the Kansas City area because their 
grocery store had depleted their products, and they were reaching out to
 anybody so they could have something. A couple from Lawrence drove an 
hour and 20 minutes. A lot of them were coming to find toilet paper, and
 when they realized we didn’t have that, they ended up buying other 
things.

“Are people flocking because they don’t want to brave 
Walmart? I think so. You and I both know they are a discount store for a
 reason. They (Walmart) serve the masses, where we cater to customer 
service, fresh-cut meat and produce. … We just take care of the 
community no matter how it is.”

Marilyn Logan, general manager of the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMarmatonMarket/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMarmatonMarket/" target="_blank">Marmaton Market</a>
 in Moran, says a reluctance to take risks in the face of the 
coronavirus prompted the store to offer curbside pickup and home 
delivery.

Even so, customers are driving in from Bourbon, Neosho and Anderson counties to shop.

“People
 are tending to buy more products as staple items — they are wanting 
flour, sugar and macaroni — less of the snack cakes. And yeast? We are 
out of yeast and have had trouble getting flour. We had some in stock, 
but that could change any minute,” she said.

“Our store has gone 
up 20% in business, and we are hoping we have opened up people’s eyes to
 continue to shop here when this is all over with.”

But some store owners are saying they are bracing for when the pandemic ends.

“I
 think the other side of the wave will show a decrease in sales,” Jordan
 White said. “That’s what we are preparing for, and we will be ready for
 it.

“People aren’t going to need to buy a lot of toilet paper or 
canned goods for the next three months because I think everybody should 
have plenty … but we will keep fighting, keep going and doing what we 
do.”

Chris Green, managing editor of The Journal, contributed to this story.

The
 Journal, the print and digital magazine of the Kansas Leadership 
Center, is publishing a digital newsletter that explores what is 
working, what isn’t working and what’s being learned during the response
 to COVID-19. To receive twice-a-week updates, subscribe <a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/contact-us/join-our-email-list/" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588863168159.png" alt="Jan Dunn shops at White's Foodliner in St. John in this photo from 2019. Jeff Tuttle / The Journal" />
 <figcaption>Jan Dunn shops at White's Foodliner in St. John in this photo from 2019. Jeff Tuttle / The Journal</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECCY TANNER &amp; The Journal <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-05-06/struggling-rural-grocery-stores-get-coronavirus-bump-but-worry-if-it-will-last">Kansas News Service</a>The past couple of decades have been tough on small, rural grocery 
stores that often struggle to keep doors open as locals forgo hometown 
stores for shopping sprees in larger stores in bigger towns.That 
is until 5 p.m. on March 11, 2020, two days after a historic drop in the
 stock market, which would only fall further in the days to come.Jordan White remembers exactly what happened then.“There began a little bit of frenzy buying,” says White, the operations manager of the company that operates<a href="https://www.whitesfoodliner.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.whitesfoodliner.com/" target="_blank">White’s Foodliner</a> stores in Kingman, Medicine Lodge,<a href="https://klcjournal.com/st-john-kansas-rural-grocery/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://klcjournal.com/st-john-kansas-rural-grocery/" target="_blank">St. John</a>, Phillipsburg and Scott City.But at 5 p.m. on March 11, customers began flocking into White’s stores.“Things
 got started. By Friday the 13th and that weekend, I am going to call it
 frenzy buying for toilet paper. It was all over the country, from store
 to store,” he said. “Our Kingman store had 17 pallets of toilet paper 
stored above our freezer and someone from Wichita posted about it on 
Facebook. Then, it was mass chaos. People were trying to get toilet 
paper and essentials. The following week was more like a steady 
Christmas week.”It’s been an uptick in business ever since.And it’s a story resonating across Kansas –<a href="https://nyti.ms/2Xy4Fia" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://nyti.ms/2Xy4Fia" target="_blank">and the nation</a>.“You
 are hearing about stores doing 300% more business,” White says. 
“Obviously, we are not seeing that, because it has bounced across the 
board, depending on the location. Some of our stores are up only 25% in 
business and some are 100%. It is different week by week. It is also a 
false sense of improved business, because you are selling at a lower 
margin. We don’t make a lot of money on canned food, toilet paper and 
diapers. So, while you may have a lot more sales in the rural 
independent grocery stores right now, they aren’t exactly profitable 
sales.”Rial Carver, program manager for the<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/cecd/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.k-state.edu/cecd/" target="_blank">Center for Engagement and Community Development at Kansas State University</a>, said she’s hearing how<a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/" target="_blank">local stores</a>
 across the state are adapting during the pandemic. Some are closing 
their doors and offering only delivery and pickup services — such as the
 St. Paul Supermarket and Cecil K’s Hometown Market in Holton — to keep 
both their employees and customers safe.“The reality that grocery
 stores are facing right now is that they are swamped – that’s something
 that is happening everywhere,” Carver says. “What I have seen is that 
some of these small-town grocers have a little bit of an edge because 
they are able to adapt quickly and implement new processes for ordering 
or for delivery. They also have closer ties to their community. And, 
some stores are working with volunteers to help make this new normal a 
reality.”They’re getting a helping hand from their communities. 
Sheriff’s departments in Bourbon, Greenwood and Osage counties are 
offering grocery delivery to residents who shop at local stores.Community groups in Trego County are partnering with<a href="https://www.malaysmarket.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.malaysmarket.com/" target="_blank">Malay’s Market</a> in WaKeeney to offer family food boxes. And some offer remote shopping by phone, email and Facebook Messenger, Carver said.Stacie Schmidt, executive director of<a href="http://www.ellsworthcounty.org/County_departments/economic_development/index.php" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.ellsworthcounty.org/County_departments/economic_development/index.php" target="_blank">Ellsworth County Economic Development</a>, said<a href="https://heartlandfoodsstores.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://heartlandfoodsstores.com/" target="_blank">Gene’s Heartland Foods</a>
 in her community started by offering curbside delivery and call-in 
orders to reduce foot traffic and keep the community and staff safe.Fearing
 that it would be difficult to efficiently take phone orders, shop for 
people, stock shelves, clean and provide check-out services all at once,
 Ellsworth County Economic Development stepped in and worked with the 
store to launch<a href="http://www.genesclicklist.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.genesclicklist.com/" target="_blank">Gene’s Click List</a>, which allows for online ordering.Schmidt said the system is working well for customers and helping to keep staff healthy by reducing traffic in the store.“This
 is a way of thinking adaptively to solve challenges (with technical 
solutions) and a great way of collaboration and partnerships,” Schmidt 
says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588863283400.png" alt="It’s not unusual to see orders of $400 or more at G&amp;W Foods in Iola during the crisis, store manager Daniel Gile says. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>It’s not unusual to see orders of $400 or more at G&amp;W Foods in Iola during the crisis, store manager Daniel Gile says. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a big moment for small-town stores, said Daniel Gile, store manager at<a href="https://www.gwfoodsinc.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.gwfoodsinc.com/" target="_blank">G&amp;W Foods</a> in Iola.“We
 have never seen anything like it,” Gile says. “It is just 
unprecedented. I assumed it would taper off at some point, and it has 
not. When the governor issued that stay-at-home order on March 28, that 
was by far the busiest day we had. There was a lot of panic and fear — 
just fear of the unknown and that people might be stuck at home and they
 didn’t have enough groceries.”It is not unusual, Gile said, to 
have a customer or two come in and do a month’s worth of shopping. But 
in these COVID-19 days and times, “it is not uncommon to see $400 to 
$500 orders. We are seeing that repetitively.”And some customers are driving 70 to 90 miles to shop, Gile said.“I
 was told a couple came down from the Kansas City area because their 
grocery store had depleted their products, and they were reaching out to
 anybody so they could have something. A couple from Lawrence drove an 
hour and 20 minutes. A lot of them were coming to find toilet paper, and
 when they realized we didn’t have that, they ended up buying other 
things.“Are people flocking because they don’t want to brave 
Walmart? I think so. You and I both know they are a discount store for a
 reason. They (Walmart) serve the masses, where we cater to customer 
service, fresh-cut meat and produce. … We just take care of the 
community no matter how it is.”Marilyn Logan, general manager of the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMarmatonMarket/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMarmatonMarket/" target="_blank">Marmaton Market</a>
 in Moran, says a reluctance to take risks in the face of the 
coronavirus prompted the store to offer curbside pickup and home 
delivery.Even so, customers are driving in from Bourbon, Neosho and Anderson counties to shop.“People
 are tending to buy more products as staple items — they are wanting 
flour, sugar and macaroni — less of the snack cakes. And yeast? We are 
out of yeast and have had trouble getting flour. We had some in stock, 
but that could change any minute,” she said.“Our store has gone 
up 20% in business, and we are hoping we have opened up people’s eyes to
 continue to shop here when this is all over with.”But some store owners are saying they are bracing for when the pandemic ends.“I
 think the other side of the wave will show a decrease in sales,” Jordan
 White said. “That’s what we are preparing for, and we will be ready for
 it.“People aren’t going to need to buy a lot of toilet paper or 
canned goods for the next three months because I think everybody should 
have plenty … but we will keep fighting, keep going and doing what we 
do.”Chris Green, managing editor of The Journal, contributed to this story.The
 Journal, the print and digital magazine of the Kansas Leadership 
Center, is publishing a digital newsletter that explores what is 
working, what isn’t working and what’s being learned during the response
 to COVID-19. To receive twice-a-week updates, subscribe <a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/contact-us/join-our-email-list/" target="_blank">here</a>.

Struggling rural grocers get virus bump, but worry it won't last

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Four deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Saturday.

The Douglas County Health Department reported the death of a man in his 60s. The health department's news release said the department was unaware of any underlying conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news&nbsp;</a>

More information will be forthcoming on the other three deaths reported today.

In addition, Dawes County reported its first case of COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/panhandlepublichealth" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/panhandlepublichealth&nbsp;</a>.

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 96, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time, is 8,234. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

Governor Pete Ricketts has announced changes to some of the state's Directed Health Measures, including re-openings of selected businesses in specific regions of Nebraska. The new DHM updates can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/iuwv40yommq81m3/AAAYgdnJYg3wWuwiPxPL8SEpa?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp; Not sure which local health department is yours? A map is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/NE_Health_Dept_Map_Dec_2016.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.

Governor Ricketts recently announced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. TestNebraska launched this week in Grand Island, Omaha and Lincoln. Additional mobile testing sites are expected to become available shortly.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Four deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Saturday.The Douglas County Health Department reported the death of a man in his 60s. The health department's news release said the department was unaware of any underlying conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news&nbsp;</a>More information will be forthcoming on the other three deaths reported today.In addition, Dawes County reported its first case of COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/panhandlepublichealth" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/panhandlepublichealth&nbsp;</a>.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 96, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time, is 8,234. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.Governor Pete Ricketts has announced changes to some of the state's Directed Health Measures, including re-openings of selected businesses in specific regions of Nebraska. The new DHM updates can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/iuwv40yommq81m3/AAAYgdnJYg3wWuwiPxPL8SEpa?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp; Not sure which local health department is yours? A map is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/NE_Health_Dept_Map_Dec_2016.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here&nbsp;</a>.Governor Ricketts recently announced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. TestNebraska launched this week in Grand Island, Omaha and Lincoln. Additional mobile testing sites are expected to become available shortly.The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment, participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>. Because people can develop symptoms quickly, Nebraskans are asked to update their assessments from time to time as needed.DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.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://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645 or toll-free at (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

4 COVID-19 related deaths reported in Nebraska on Saturday, Dawes County has first positive case

LINCOLN, Neb.-Director Scott R. Frakes announced that a staff member at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). The staff member is employed at the agency’s Staff Training Academy (STA). The person is self-isolating at home.

Notification will be provided to those who work in that building as to the new test-positive case. In addition, anyone who may have had close contact with the staff member will be directed to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider. To date, eight employees with NDCS have tested positive for COVID-19.

Three inmates housed at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP) are being tested for the coronavirus (COVID-19) as a precautionary measure.

“We are acting out of an abundance of caution in this situation. The individuals have not displayed any symptoms or expressed any medical complaints, but were in close proximity to a staff member who recently tested positive for COVID-19,” stated Director Scott Frakes, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS).

The three individuals will receive notification when the test results come in. Until then, they will remain in quarantine. So far, no inmates have tested positive for COVID-19. These are the first tests administered to any incarcerated individuals in NDCS.

LINCOLN, Neb.-Director Scott R. Frakes announced that a staff member at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). The staff member is employed at the agency’s Staff Training Academy (STA). The person is self-isolating at home.Notification will be provided to those who work in that building as to the new test-positive case. In addition, anyone who may have had close contact with the staff member will be directed to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider. To date, eight employees with NDCS have tested positive for COVID-19.Three inmates housed at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP) are being tested for the coronavirus (COVID-19) as a precautionary measure.“We are acting out of an abundance of caution in this situation. The individuals have not displayed any symptoms or expressed any medical complaints, but were in close proximity to a staff member who recently tested positive for COVID-19,” stated Director Scott Frakes, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS).The three individuals will receive notification when the test results come in. Until then, they will remain in quarantine. So far, no inmates have tested positive for COVID-19. These are the first tests administered to any incarcerated individuals in NDCS.

Another Nebraska Corrections staffer tests positive for COVID-19, 3 inmates tested

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Businesses have started reopening in Nebraska, even as the number of coronavirus cases surges, raising concerns among medical experts.

Projections have long suggested the pandemic would peak at the end of April in Nebraska. But Dr. Mark Rupp, chief of the division of infectious diseases at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said it appears that cases have only plateaued at best - and at much higher levels than had been seen just weeks earlier, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/nebraskas-coronavirus-peak-was-projected-to-arrive-by-now-but-its-probably-still-coming/article_73bc8f3d-d24d-59ae-9e38-acf9a2e0716e.html#2" target="_blank">reported.</a>

Nebraska had 7,831 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Saturday, up 641 from Friday. The number of deaths increased by two to 92. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.

"We are not out of the woods by any means," Rupp said.

Gov. Pete Ricketts on Friday declined to say whether he thinks the state has peaked. He noted that the University of Washington model that once had Nebraska cases peaking in late April now has moved the peak into early May.

But he said he's not so much focused on the case numbers as he is on whether Nebraska's hospitals are being overwhelmed with patients, and they're not.

"We slowed down the spread of the virus, we flattened the curve, so that peak did not overwhelm our health care system," he said.

Dr. Daniel Brailita, an infectious disease specialist with Mary Lanning Healthcare in Hastings, said the models for the pandemic showing an April peak clearly did not anticipate how explosively the virus would spread within meatpacking communities.

Because of huge outbreaks in a number of meatpacking counties, Nebraska leads the nation in percentage growth in new confirmed cases, according to a World-Herald analysis of national data.

"They started like a burning fire," Brailita said. "West of Lincoln and Omaha, we had some very scary spikes in hospital admissions and (ventilator patients)."

Both Brailita and Rupp said it's important for people to be vigilant in following all of the guidance and restrictions that remain in place.

"If we ignore the social distancing, if we stop wearing masks and don't pay attention to hygiene, we will see a surge in cases," Rupp said.

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

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Businesses have started reopening in Nebraska, even as the number of coronavirus cases surges, raising concerns among medical experts.Projections have long suggested the pandemic would peak at the end of April in Nebraska. But Dr. Mark Rupp, chief of the division of infectious diseases at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said it appears that cases have only plateaued at best - and at much higher levels than had been seen just weeks earlier, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/nebraskas-coronavirus-peak-was-projected-to-arrive-by-now-but-its-probably-still-coming/article_73bc8f3d-d24d-59ae-9e38-acf9a2e0716e.html#2" target="_blank">reported.</a>Nebraska had 7,831 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Saturday, up 641 from Friday. The number of deaths increased by two to 92. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick."We are not out of the woods by any means," Rupp said.Gov. Pete Ricketts on Friday declined to say whether he thinks the state has peaked. He noted that the University of Washington model that once had Nebraska cases peaking in late April now has moved the peak into early May.But he said he's not so much focused on the case numbers as he is on whether Nebraska's hospitals are being overwhelmed with patients, and they're not."We slowed down the spread of the virus, we flattened the curve, so that peak did not overwhelm our health care system," he said.Dr. Daniel Brailita, an infectious disease specialist with Mary Lanning Healthcare in Hastings, said the models for the pandemic showing an April peak clearly did not anticipate how explosively the virus would spread within meatpacking communities.Because of huge outbreaks in a number of meatpacking counties, Nebraska leads the nation in percentage growth in new confirmed cases, according to a World-Herald analysis of national data."They started like a burning fire," Brailita said. "West of Lincoln and Omaha, we had some very scary spikes in hospital admissions and (ventilator patients)."Both Brailita and Rupp said it's important for people to be vigilant in following all of the guidance and restrictions that remain in place."If we ignore the social distancing, if we stop wearing masks and don't pay attention to hygiene, we will see a surge in cases," Rupp said.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

COVID-19 increases continue in Nebraska as businesses reopen

The COVID-19 pandemic is not under control in the United States. The 
disease is still deadly, especially for those who are elderly or 
immunocompromised. The Trump administration <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/04/us/coronavirus-updates.html" target="_blank">projects</a>
 deaths per day will nearly double in the United States between now and 
June 1. Yet some states are starting to lift restrictions on in-person 
gatherings for religious communities.

In Texas, for example, <a href="https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Faithful-Texans-rejuvenated-hopeful-after-15243953.php" target="_blank">an order</a> by Gov. Greg Abbott
 allows in-person religious services to resume at 25 percent capacity — 
though congregants have to wear masks and practice social distancing. 
About 250 congregants gathered on Sunday, May 3 at a church in Houston 
to celebrate communion. (That Sunday was the fourth straight day that 
Texas saw <a href="https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/coronavirus/for-fourth-straight-day-texas-surpasses-1000-new-cases/2362536/" target="_blank">more than 1,000</a> new confirmed coronavirus cases).

In other parts of the country, members of religious communities are 
challenging state stay-at-home orders in court. Last week, for example, a
 New Jersey Catholic priest <a href="https://nj1015.com/nj-priest-suing-gov-over-pandemic-order-as-unconstitutional/" target="_blank">filed suit</a> to challenge New Jersey’s stay-at-home order, which has prohibited in-person religious gatherings. (On Sunday, New Jersey had <a href="https://www.njtvonline.org/news/uncategorized/tracking-the-coronavirus-in-new-jersey/" target="_blank">more than 3,000</a> new confirmed cases and 129 deaths).

And many Americans live in states that have exempted religious 
gatherings either completely or in part from stay-at-home orders 
throughout the pandemic. In fact, <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/04/27/most-states-have-religious-exemptions-to-covid-19-social-distancing-rules/" target="_blank">a study</a> of religious exemptions published by the Pew Research Center on April 27 found that most
 states have religious exemptions to social distancing rules. Florida, 
for example, deemed religious worship essential, like shopping for food 
or prescription drugs, and therefore offered exemptions from rules 
restricting large gatherings. (From Sunday to Monday, Florida reported <a href="https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2020/05/04/florida-reports-20-deaths-819-new-cases-of-coronavirus-as-state-begins-reopening/" target="_blank">more than 800</a> new confirmed cases and 20 new deaths).

In the coming weeks, more Americans will likely see fewer 
restrictions on their right to gather in person. But Americans who have 
the right to congregate in large groups — whether in houses of worship 
or non-religious spaces like gyms, restaurants and shopping malls — 
should avoid exercising that right. In fact, they have a responsibility 
to stay home whenever possible to protect the most vulnerable among us.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit recently said as 
much. In a case from Kentucky, the court prohibited the state from 
enforcing a ban on drive-in religious services. The injunction is 
pending appeal. In its <a href="http://lc.org/PDFs/Attachments2PRsLAs/2020/050220MaryvilleBaptistIPA.pdf" target="_blank">opinion</a>, the court sympathized with an approach taken by Gov. Mike DeWine
 in the bordering state of Ohio: “As individuals, we have some sympathy 
for Gov. DeWine’s approach — to allow places of worship in Ohio to hold 
services but then to admonish them all (we assume) that it’s ‘not 
Christian’ to hold in-person services during a pandemic.” Notably, the 
opinion also recognized that federal judges should not tell individuals 
how to “comply with their own faith as they see it.”

Religious Americans who live in states that report an increasing or 
high number of new COVID-19 infections have a responsibility to forgo 
large in-person religious services in favor of safer alternatives that 
minimize physical contact. Why? Because elderly Americans, who are most 
at risk from COVID-19, are the backbone of many religious communities. 
For more than a dozen major Christian groups in the United States — 
including the Presbyterian Church of America, the United Church of 
Christ, the United Methodist Church, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod,
 the Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, the 
Southern Baptist Convention and the African Methodist Episcopal Church —
 <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/07/11/which-u-s-religious-groups-are-oldest-and-youngest/" target="_blank">50 percent of members or more</a> are older than 50. That is also true for Jews.

Clergy themselves are also at higher risk, on average, due to their age. <a href="https://www.barna.com/research/aging-americas-pastors/" target="_blank">One study</a>
 from 2017 commissioned by Pepperdine University and conducted by Barna 
found that more than 50 percent of pastors are over 55 years old. And of
 course some religious communities only allow men to serve as ordained 
clergy — and men are at <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/04/10/831883664/the-new-coronavirus-appears-to-take-a-greater-toll-on-men-than-on-women" target="_blank">higher risk</a> from COVID-19 than women.

Religious services can provide profound spiritual comfort and social 
connection. In states struggling to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, 
members of religious communities should identify religious activities 
that can provide spiritual comfort and social connection without direct 
physical contact. Religious leaders might live-stream their services. 
Members of religious communities might stand outside the windows of the 
elderly or infirm to sing hymns, read scripture, or simply check on 
their mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Drive-in religious 
services might be a viable option if people stay in their cars. These 
alternatives are not optimal, but they will save lives.

And in states that report few to no new cases for multiple 
consecutive days, people might choose to attend in-person services. 
Whether or not the state requires it, congregants should do what they 
can to prevent another outbreak by wearing masks, disinfecting 
high-touch surfaces and maintaining social distance. People with 
symptoms should stay home. Outdoor services might be preferable to 
services in small, confined spaces with poor circulation.

You might have the right to gather in person with your religious 
community during an uncontrolled pandemic, but you also have the freedom
 to act in the interest of our country as a whole. Exercise your rights 
responsibly.

Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious
 Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum Institute. His email address is: <a href="mailto:bmarcus@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">bmarcus@freedomforum.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576172282950.jpeg" alt="Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum Institute." />
 <figcaption>Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum Institute.</figcaption>
 </figure>The COVID-19 pandemic is not under control in the United States. The 
disease is still deadly, especially for those who are elderly or 
immunocompromised. The Trump administration <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/04/us/coronavirus-updates.html" target="_blank">projects</a>
 deaths per day will nearly double in the United States between now and 
June 1. Yet some states are starting to lift restrictions on in-person 
gatherings for religious communities.In Texas, for example, <a href="https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Faithful-Texans-rejuvenated-hopeful-after-15243953.php" target="_blank">an order</a> by Gov. Greg Abbott
 allows in-person religious services to resume at 25 percent capacity — 
though congregants have to wear masks and practice social distancing. 
About 250 congregants gathered on Sunday, May 3 at a church in Houston 
to celebrate communion. (That Sunday was the fourth straight day that 
Texas saw <a href="https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/coronavirus/for-fourth-straight-day-texas-surpasses-1000-new-cases/2362536/" target="_blank">more than 1,000</a> new confirmed coronavirus cases).In other parts of the country, members of religious communities are 
challenging state stay-at-home orders in court. Last week, for example, a
 New Jersey Catholic priest <a href="https://nj1015.com/nj-priest-suing-gov-over-pandemic-order-as-unconstitutional/" target="_blank">filed suit</a> to challenge New Jersey’s stay-at-home order, which has prohibited in-person religious gatherings. (On Sunday, New Jersey had <a href="https://www.njtvonline.org/news/uncategorized/tracking-the-coronavirus-in-new-jersey/" target="_blank">more than 3,000</a> new confirmed cases and 129 deaths).And many Americans live in states that have exempted religious 
gatherings either completely or in part from stay-at-home orders 
throughout the pandemic. In fact, <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/04/27/most-states-have-religious-exemptions-to-covid-19-social-distancing-rules/" target="_blank">a study</a> of religious exemptions published by the Pew Research Center on April 27 found that most
 states have religious exemptions to social distancing rules. Florida, 
for example, deemed religious worship essential, like shopping for food 
or prescription drugs, and therefore offered exemptions from rules 
restricting large gatherings. (From Sunday to Monday, Florida reported <a href="https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2020/05/04/florida-reports-20-deaths-819-new-cases-of-coronavirus-as-state-begins-reopening/" target="_blank">more than 800</a> new confirmed cases and 20 new deaths).In the coming weeks, more Americans will likely see fewer 
restrictions on their right to gather in person. But Americans who have 
the right to congregate in large groups — whether in houses of worship 
or non-religious spaces like gyms, restaurants and shopping malls — 
should avoid exercising that right. In fact, they have a responsibility 
to stay home whenever possible to protect the most vulnerable among us.The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit recently said as 
much. In a case from Kentucky, the court prohibited the state from 
enforcing a ban on drive-in religious services. The injunction is 
pending appeal. In its <a href="http://lc.org/PDFs/Attachments2PRsLAs/2020/050220MaryvilleBaptistIPA.pdf" target="_blank">opinion</a>, the court sympathized with an approach taken by Gov. Mike DeWine
 in the bordering state of Ohio: “As individuals, we have some sympathy 
for Gov. DeWine’s approach — to allow places of worship in Ohio to hold 
services but then to admonish them all (we assume) that it’s ‘not 
Christian’ to hold in-person services during a pandemic.” Notably, the 
opinion also recognized that federal judges should not tell individuals 
how to “comply with their own faith as they see it.”Religious Americans who live in states that report an increasing or 
high number of new COVID-19 infections have a responsibility to forgo 
large in-person religious services in favor of safer alternatives that 
minimize physical contact. Why? Because elderly Americans, who are most 
at risk from COVID-19, are the backbone of many religious communities. 
For more than a dozen major Christian groups in the United States — 
including the Presbyterian Church of America, the United Church of 
Christ, the United Methodist Church, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod,
 the Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, the 
Southern Baptist Convention and the African Methodist Episcopal Church —
 <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/07/11/which-u-s-religious-groups-are-oldest-and-youngest/" target="_blank">50 percent of members or more</a> are older than 50. That is also true for Jews.Clergy themselves are also at higher risk, on average, due to their age. <a href="https://www.barna.com/research/aging-americas-pastors/" target="_blank">One study</a>
 from 2017 commissioned by Pepperdine University and conducted by Barna 
found that more than 50 percent of pastors are over 55 years old. And of
 course some religious communities only allow men to serve as ordained 
clergy — and men are at <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/04/10/831883664/the-new-coronavirus-appears-to-take-a-greater-toll-on-men-than-on-women" target="_blank">higher risk</a> from COVID-19 than women.Religious services can provide profound spiritual comfort and social 
connection. In states struggling to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, 
members of religious communities should identify religious activities 
that can provide spiritual comfort and social connection without direct 
physical contact. Religious leaders might live-stream their services. 
Members of religious communities might stand outside the windows of the 
elderly or infirm to sing hymns, read scripture, or simply check on 
their mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Drive-in religious 
services might be a viable option if people stay in their cars. These 
alternatives are not optimal, but they will save lives.And in states that report few to no new cases for multiple 
consecutive days, people might choose to attend in-person services. 
Whether or not the state requires it, congregants should do what they 
can to prevent another outbreak by wearing masks, disinfecting 
high-touch surfaces and maintaining social distance. People with 
symptoms should stay home. Outdoor services might be preferable to 
services in small, confined spaces with poor circulation.You might have the right to gather in person with your religious 
community during an uncontrolled pandemic, but you also have the freedom
 to act in the interest of our country as a whole. Exercise your rights 
responsibly.Benjamin P. Marcus is religious literacy specialist at the Religious
 Freedom Center of the Freedom Forum Institute. His email address is: <a href="mailto:bmarcus@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">bmarcus@freedomforum.org</a>.

FIRST FIVE: You might have the right to gather, but you can choose otherwise

Lincoln –&nbsp;May is Children's Mental Health Month, and a time to recognize that mentally healthy children are more likely to have a positive quality of life and to function well at home, in school, and in their communities.

“Mental health is important to overall health," said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. “Mental health in childhood means reaching developmental and emotional milestones and learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems.&nbsp;Many children occasionally have fears and worries, or even occasional disruptive behaviors. If symptoms are severe and persistent, and interfere with school, home, or play activities, you should talk with your doctor or mental health professional.&nbsp;Early intervention is the key to leading a healthy life."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, the more common mental disorders diagnosed symptoms often start in early childhood, although some disorders may develop during the teenage years. The diagnosis is often made in the school years and sometimes earlier. However, some children with a mental disorder may not be recognized or diagnosed as having one.

During May, let's focus on what each of us can do to promote mental health in children

There are resources available to help you and your child and treat children's mental illnesses.&nbsp;They include:

If, like many parents, you're struggling to talk to your child about COVID-19, tips can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/talking-with-children.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/talking-with-children.html&nbsp;</a>

Lincoln –&nbsp;May is Children's Mental Health Month, and a time to recognize that mentally healthy children are more likely to have a positive quality of life and to function well at home, in school, and in their communities.“Mental health is important to overall health," said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. “Mental health in childhood means reaching developmental and emotional milestones and learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems.&nbsp;Many children occasionally have fears and worries, or even occasional disruptive behaviors. If symptoms are severe and persistent, and interfere with school, home, or play activities, you should talk with your doctor or mental health professional.&nbsp;Early intervention is the key to leading a healthy life."According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, the more common mental disorders diagnosed symptoms often start in early childhood, although some disorders may develop during the teenage years. The diagnosis is often made in the school years and sometimes earlier. However, some children with a mental disorder may not be recognized or diagnosed as having one.<ol>
 <li>Rates of mental disorders change with age</li><li>Diagnoses of depression and anxiety are more common with increased age.</li><li>7.4% of children aged 3 to 17 years (approximately 4.5 million) have a diagnosed behavior problem.</li><li>7.1% of children aged 3 to 17 years (approximately 4.4 million) have diagnosed anxiety.</li><li>3.2% of children aged 3 to 17 years (approximately 1.9 million) have diagnosed depression.</li><li>Behavior problems are more common among children aged 6 to 11 years than children younger or older.</li><li>Treatment rates vary among different mental disorders</li><li>Nearly 8 in 10 children (78.1%) aged 3 to 17 years with depression received treatment.</li><li>6 in 10 children (59.3%) aged 3 to 17 years with anxiety received treatment.</li><li>More than 5 in 10 children (53.5%) aged 3 to 17 years with behavior disorders received treatment.</li>
 </ol>During May, let's focus on what each of us can do to promote mental health in children<ol>
 <li>Parents:&nbsp;You know your child best. Talk to your child's healthcare professional if you have concerns about the way your child behaves at home, in school, or with friends.</li><li>Youth:&nbsp;It is just as important to take care of your mental health as it is to take care of your physical health. If you are angry, worried or sad, don't be afraid to talk about your feelings and reach out to a parent, caregiver or trusted adult.&nbsp; If you have a mental health challenge or illness, remember, you are not your illness.&nbsp;You are an awesome individual who has an illness that effects your brain.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Healthcare professionals:&nbsp;Early diagnosis and treatment are very important.</li><li>Teachers/School administrators:&nbsp;Early identification is important. Work with families and healthcare professionals if you have concerns about the mental health of a child in your school.&nbsp;This toolkit can help you:&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Behavioral%20Health%20Documents/Resources%20for%20Schools.pdf" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Behavioral%20Health%20Documents/Resources%20for%20Schools.pdf&nbsp;</a></li>
 </ol>There are resources available to help you and your child and treat children's mental illnesses.&nbsp;They include:<ol>
 <li>The Nebraska Family Helpline&nbsp;at 1-888-866-8660, can help parents and other callers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.</li><li>The Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network (RAINN)&nbsp;can be reached at 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673.)</li><li>If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911 or&nbsp;the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline&nbsp;at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) (English) and 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish).</li><li>The National Runaway Safeline&nbsp;can be reached at 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929.)</li><li>The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids&nbsp;can be reached at 1-855-DRUGFREE (1-855-378-4373)</li>
 </ol>If, like many parents, you're struggling to talk to your child about COVID-19, tips can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/talking-with-children.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/talking-with-children.html&nbsp;</a>

May is Children's Mental Health Month in Nebraska

Gary Shorman, chairman and chief development officer of Eagle Radio, has been named among the top radio executives in the country by industry analysts.

In a recent edition of the trade magazine Radio Ink, Shorman was named to the "Top 20 Leaders List," an honor the magazine started in 2017.

"The best business builders create a fun work environment where individuals can hone their skills, grow professionally, and be successful financially, all at the same time," Shorman said in his interview with Radio Ink. "Our employee-owned philosophy has allowed us to create an entrepreneurial environment, letting everyone share in the success and growth of the company. In challenging a time like it is right now, our Eagle employees also own share in the company, and that is a big inventive."

Shorman also discussed Eagle's Leadership 2020 program, which in two years has trained and educated 20 of the the company's future leaders.

Founded in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with over 150 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online solutions, web development, video production, and creative services. Eagle is the parent company of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>. For more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://eagleradio.net/">eagleradio.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588881410393.jpeg" alt="Gary Shorman" />
 <figcaption>Gary Shorman</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Shorman, chairman and chief development officer of Eagle Radio, has been named among the top radio executives in the country by industry analysts.In a recent edition of the trade magazine Radio Ink, Shorman was named to the "Top 20 Leaders List," an honor the magazine started in 2017."The best business builders create a fun work environment where individuals can hone their skills, grow professionally, and be successful financially, all at the same time," Shorman said in his interview with Radio Ink. "Our employee-owned philosophy has allowed us to create an entrepreneurial environment, letting everyone share in the success and growth of the company. In challenging a time like it is right now, our Eagle employees also own share in the company, and that is a big inventive."Shorman also discussed Eagle's Leadership 2020 program, which in two years has trained and educated 20 of the the company's future leaders.Founded in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with over 150 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online solutions, web development, video production, and creative services. Eagle is the parent company of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>. For more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://eagleradio.net/">eagleradio.net</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588881368385.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Eagle's Shorman named one of radio industry's top leaders

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts highlighted four regional directed health measures that will go into effect next week.&nbsp; Three had been previously announced.&nbsp; The fourth is for Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department (ELVPHD) and will relax some restrictions in that region on May 13, 2020.

In advance of Mothers Day weekend, the Governor also unveiled new mother-friendly policies that the State is implementing for its teammates.&nbsp; Additionally, Gov. Ricketts announced the State’s plans to host a virtual Memorial Day observance from the State Capitol.

Jason Jackson, Chief Human Resources Officer for the State of Nebraska, joined the Governor to overview the new mother-friendly initiatives for State teammates.&nbsp; Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs (NDVA) Director John Hilgert also participated in the press event.&nbsp; He previewed the upcoming virtual Memorial Day observance and also announced NDVA’s new virtual service office available at&nbsp;<a href="http://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts: New Directed Health Measures (DHMs) Taking Effect

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As previously announced, new DHMs are taking effect in the following regions on&nbsp;Monday, May 11th.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Dept. (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fnsxjwuwm6j3tgnl%2F2020.04.30%2520DHM%2520LLHD-002.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617217342&amp;sdata=u%2BlS7MYBlSuLevkaBXPBf91DPArqYVQFCHoLgHZXadk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;for DHM)

o&nbsp;&nbsp;West Central District Health Dept. (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fu6qwxgeum9zkhp1%2F2020.04.30%2520DHM%2520WCHD-002.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617217342&amp;sdata=K92hsw54uV74qjh5dFLTFUEquUyGlFq2N7HIW0ZU3bs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;for DHM)

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Three Rivers Public Health Dept. (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fgff2j9ugeshjcxl%2F2020.04.30%2520DHM%25203RHD-002.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617227298&amp;sdata=buRuAxK94iUD9SjuUeIp%2FxKJE%2B6mCyEND2HB1M3NFW8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;for DHM)

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each of these districts will move to a less restrictive DHM on&nbsp;May 11th. &nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, the Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department (ELVPHD, in consultation with the State, will move to a less restrictive DHM on&nbsp;Wednesday, May 13th.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;The new DHM for ELVPHD will be released next week and applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These less restrictive DHMs:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Allow for the limited reopening of dine-in services at restaurants and of salons, barber shops, tattoo parlors, and massage therapy services.&nbsp;

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Increase the per room/space childcare limits from 10 to 15 kids (subject to the usual child-to-staff ratios).

“Most of our mass testing results have come in, and I feel comfortable with beginning the process of relaxing the Directed Health Measures in this district sooner than the original May 31st&nbsp;deadline,” said ELVPHD Health Director Gina Uhing.&nbsp; “Thank you to everyone for their contributions in helping to flatten the curve in Burt, Cuming, Stanton and Madison Counties. &nbsp;I ask the public to be prudent as the measures become relaxed, as we all want to continue making forward progress on the road to recovery in this area.”

“This is a reasonable first step in getting back to business,” said Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning. &nbsp;“Area residents have done very well in the work of slowing the spread and mitigating the impacts of outbreak. &nbsp;I’m confident we’ll continue to do so, as it’s all the more important that we retain a sense of vigilance about protecting our health and the health of our neighbors.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617227298&amp;sdata=PCuDAS8quN66xnRebCAHPh7KuO7Zam%2F%2BhLVG%2BZceoyI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test Nebraska completed 465 tests yesterday in Grand Island and Omaha (combined).

o&nbsp;&nbsp;So far, 968 test results have been received and 30 people have tested positive.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;A mobile testing site also started in Lincoln&nbsp;today.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We are adding a mobile testing site in Schuyler for Monday and Tuesday of next week.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Testing in Grand Island, Lincoln, and Omaha will continue next week as well.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;More mobile testing sites will be announced in the near future.

Gov. Ricketts: Mothers Initiatives

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As we look forward to celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend, we want to announce some mom-friendly initiatives in Nebraska state government.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our team with the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services has been working to implement four different initiatives:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Mothers’ rooms for nursing mothers.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Enhanced maternity benefits.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Priority parking for expectant mothers.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Our new Workplace for Families Pilot Program.

Gov. Ricketts: Virtual Memorial Day Observance

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Memorial Day is Monday, May 25th, which falls inside the timeframe of our current Directed Health Measures.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This will prevent communities throughout the state from holding the traditional Memorial Day activities they host each year.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We want to provide a special Memorial Day observance that anyone in the state can participate in, while still following our directed health measures and practicing social distancing.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs is working with NET to broadcast a live stream from the Rotunda in the State Capitol on Memorial Day.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We encourage folks to participate in this virtual Memorial Day Observance in lieu of traditional activities.

Director Hilgert: Virtual Memorial Day Observance

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 8:00 AM on Memorial Day, we’ll kick off our virtual observance in the center of the Capitol Rotunda.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll light a candle at that time, and the flame will continue until 8:00 PM in the evening.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Guard sentinels will be in place throughout the day, serving in 30-minute shifts.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On a first come, first serve basis, veterans groups from across Nebraska can sign up to send two members from their post to stand guard over the flame.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Groups can learn about the event and sign up to participate by&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/memorialday" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This broadens our participation statewide, while staying within the 10-person social gathering limitation.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The virtual online observance makes it possible for anyone to tune in and reflect on the sacrifices of our fallen service members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588995132143.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts speaks at today’s press briefing." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts speaks at today’s press briefing.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts highlighted four regional directed health measures that will go into effect next week.&nbsp; Three had been previously announced.&nbsp; The fourth is for Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department (ELVPHD) and will relax some restrictions in that region on May 13, 2020.In advance of Mothers Day weekend, the Governor also unveiled new mother-friendly policies that the State is implementing for its teammates.&nbsp; Additionally, Gov. Ricketts announced the State’s plans to host a virtual Memorial Day observance from the State Capitol.Jason Jackson, Chief Human Resources Officer for the State of Nebraska, joined the Governor to overview the new mother-friendly initiatives for State teammates.&nbsp; Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs (NDVA) Director John Hilgert also participated in the press event.&nbsp; He previewed the upcoming virtual Memorial Day observance and also announced NDVA’s new virtual service office available at&nbsp;<a href="http://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts: New Directed Health Measures (DHMs) Taking Effect·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As previously announced, new DHMs are taking effect in the following regions on&nbsp;Monday, May 11th.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Dept. (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fnsxjwuwm6j3tgnl%2F2020.04.30%2520DHM%2520LLHD-002.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617217342&amp;sdata=u%2BlS7MYBlSuLevkaBXPBf91DPArqYVQFCHoLgHZXadk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;for DHM)o&nbsp;&nbsp;West Central District Health Dept. (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fu6qwxgeum9zkhp1%2F2020.04.30%2520DHM%2520WCHD-002.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617217342&amp;sdata=K92hsw54uV74qjh5dFLTFUEquUyGlFq2N7HIW0ZU3bs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;for DHM)o&nbsp;&nbsp;Three Rivers Public Health Dept. (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fgff2j9ugeshjcxl%2F2020.04.30%2520DHM%25203RHD-002.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617227298&amp;sdata=buRuAxK94iUD9SjuUeIp%2FxKJE%2B6mCyEND2HB1M3NFW8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">click here</a>&nbsp;for DHM)·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each of these districts will move to a less restrictive DHM on&nbsp;May 11th. &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, the Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department (ELVPHD, in consultation with the State, will move to a less restrictive DHM on&nbsp;Wednesday, May 13th.o&nbsp;&nbsp;The new DHM for ELVPHD will be released next week and applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These less restrictive DHMs:o&nbsp;&nbsp;Allow for the limited reopening of dine-in services at restaurants and of salons, barber shops, tattoo parlors, and massage therapy services.&nbsp;o&nbsp;&nbsp;Increase the per room/space childcare limits from 10 to 15 kids (subject to the usual child-to-staff ratios).“Most of our mass testing results have come in, and I feel comfortable with beginning the process of relaxing the Directed Health Measures in this district sooner than the original May 31st&nbsp;deadline,” said ELVPHD Health Director Gina Uhing.&nbsp; “Thank you to everyone for their contributions in helping to flatten the curve in Burt, Cuming, Stanton and Madison Counties. &nbsp;I ask the public to be prudent as the measures become relaxed, as we all want to continue making forward progress on the road to recovery in this area.”“This is a reasonable first step in getting back to business,” said Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning. &nbsp;“Area residents have done very well in the work of slowing the spread and mitigating the impacts of outbreak. &nbsp;I’m confident we’ll continue to do so, as it’s all the more important that we retain a sense of vigilance about protecting our health and the health of our neighbors.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We continue to encourage people to take the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617227298&amp;sdata=PCuDAS8quN66xnRebCAHPh7KuO7Zam%2F%2BhLVG%2BZceoyI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;assessment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test Nebraska completed 465 tests yesterday in Grand Island and Omaha (combined).o&nbsp;&nbsp;So far, 968 test results have been received and 30 people have tested positive.o&nbsp;&nbsp;A mobile testing site also started in Lincoln&nbsp;today.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We are adding a mobile testing site in Schuyler for Monday and Tuesday of next week.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Testing in Grand Island, Lincoln, and Omaha will continue next week as well.o&nbsp;&nbsp;More mobile testing sites will be announced in the near future.Gov. Ricketts: Mothers Initiatives·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As we look forward to celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend, we want to announce some mom-friendly initiatives in Nebraska state government.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our team with the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services has been working to implement four different initiatives:o&nbsp;&nbsp;Mothers’ rooms for nursing mothers.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Enhanced maternity benefits.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Priority parking for expectant mothers.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Our new Workplace for Families Pilot Program.Gov. Ricketts: Virtual Memorial Day Observance·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Memorial Day is Monday, May 25th, which falls inside the timeframe of our current Directed Health Measures.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This will prevent communities throughout the state from holding the traditional Memorial Day activities they host each year.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We want to provide a special Memorial Day observance that anyone in the state can participate in, while still following our directed health measures and practicing social distancing.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs is working with NET to broadcast a live stream from the Rotunda in the State Capitol on Memorial Day.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We encourage folks to participate in this virtual Memorial Day Observance in lieu of traditional activities.Director Hilgert: Virtual Memorial Day Observance·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 8:00 AM on Memorial Day, we’ll kick off our virtual observance in the center of the Capitol Rotunda.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll light a candle at that time, and the flame will continue until 8:00 PM in the evening.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Guard sentinels will be in place throughout the day, serving in 30-minute shifts.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On a first come, first serve basis, veterans groups from across Nebraska can sign up to send two members from their post to stand guard over the flame.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Groups can learn about the event and sign up to participate by&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/memorialday" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This broadens our participation statewide, while staying within the 10-person social gathering limitation.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The virtual online observance makes it possible for anyone to tune in and reflect on the sacrifices of our fallen service members.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re also excited to announce our virtual veterans service office.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On March 23, 2020 our physical service office had to close its doors due to the pandemic.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Through our virtual office, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>, you can chat—in realtime—with a fully accredited state service officer.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You can coordinate with this service officer to upload all of your data, to apply for veterans benefits, and to check the status of benefits.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re going to have the chat available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm to serve working veterans.Director Jackson: Mothers Initiatives·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the past few years, the Governor’s administration has worked to make the State a family-friendly employer, and specifically a premier workplace for moms.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To achieve this goal, we have implemented, or are in the process of implementing, four initiatives:o&nbsp;&nbsp;We are providing mothers’ rooms that will be exclusively dedicated to nursing mothers§&nbsp;&nbsp;With women making up 54% of the State’s workforce, and with the unique challenges they face in balancing career and childbirth, we want to make their work experience as easy as possible post-childbirth§&nbsp;&nbsp;At a minimum, each mothers’ room will consist of a private space that is shielded from view, free from intrusion by others, and include a chair and flat surface.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Our policy will be that all state buildings managed by DAS will have mothers’ room accommodations for nursing mothers, including commercially leased space, starting July 1, 2020o&nbsp;&nbsp;We have bolstered our maternity benefits by cutting the cost for maternity and childbirth health care by 75%.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Effective July 1, 2020, for teammates choosing the In-Network WellNebraska Health Plan with Wellness Incentive, the out of pocket maximum is $500 for the birth of a child.§&nbsp;&nbsp;More information on this can be found on our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://das.nebraska.gov/Benefits/Active-HRIG.html" target="_blank">http://das.nebraska.gov/Benefits/Active-HRIG.html</a>.o&nbsp;&nbsp;One of our more recent initiatives involves providing teammates who are expectant mothers with priority parking.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Expectant mothers may request a Special Use Placard good for one year to be displayed in their vehicle.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;o&nbsp;&nbsp;Our final initiative is Workplace for Families, which is being piloted by the Department of Administrative Services.§&nbsp;&nbsp;This program will allow new mothers, fathers, or legal guardians the ability to bring their children into the workplace (provided those children fall within the two categories below).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Infant: A child who is between the ages of six weeks to six months old (or mobile, whichever comes first) and whose parent is a full-time or part-time permanent teammate.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Child: A child who is under 19 years old, does not require supervision, and whose parent is a full-time or part-time permanent teammate.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Research demonstrates that allowing a parent and infant to remain together in their earliest stage of life supports critical bonding, healthy infant brain development, and parental wellbeing.§&nbsp;&nbsp;This will also allow for mothers to return to the workplace sooner so they can continue their careers in public service.§&nbsp;&nbsp;This program also will encourage managers to work with new parents on flexible work styles and telecommuting arrangements to help meet their family needs.§&nbsp;&nbsp;At the appropriate time, we plan to expand this pilot to other agencies. We will weigh when that time may be as we continue to practice social distancing.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These four initiatives will help Nebraska become a national leader in family-friendly practices.Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fqn5dh8id198pv7e%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.08.20.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C6c570a1edf664950637d08d7f3b1e143%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637245817617237258&amp;sdata=TV5Ksgso8pCpZBYFFD9mdiQQDsOCjQ6c4boje%2Bf2%2Br4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.