Nebraska Joint Information Center Update (May 4, 2020)

Public Health Command Center Update May 4, 2020

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🎥 Public Health Command Center Update from North Platte (May 4, 2020)

On this episode of Forward Ever; Leading in Challenging Times, Gary Shorman speaks with First Care Medical Director Christine Fisher about COVID-19 precautions at the clinic.

🎤Forward Ever: First Care Medical Director Christine Fisher, M.D.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A Washington woman has died after a crash just north of North Platte.

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, on May 2, 2020, at 3:50 p.m., deputies were asked to respond to a single-vehicle accident at mile marker 90 on U.S. Highway 83, about 5 miles north of North Platte. 

Deputies discovered a Dodge Ram pickup was southbound on the roadway pulling a bumper pull camper. The vehicle had left the roadway and rolled at least one time.

All four occupants in the vehicle were injured, three of the passengers all sustained non-life threatening injuries and were treated at Great Plains Health. 

The driver sixty-four-year-old Susan Wong of Spokane, Washington, sustained life-threatening injuries and died at Great Plains Health. 

Drugs and Alcohol were not a factor in the incident.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A Washington woman has died after a crash just north of North Platte.According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, on May 2, 2020, at 3:50 p.m., deputies were asked to respond to a single-vehicle accident at mile marker 90 on U.S. Highway 83, about 5 miles north of North Platte. Deputies discovered a Dodge Ram pickup was southbound on the roadway pulling a bumper pull camper. The vehicle had left the roadway and rolled at least one time.All four occupants in the vehicle were injured, three of the passengers all sustained non-life threatening injuries and were treated at Great Plains Health. The driver sixty-four-year-old Susan Wong of Spokane, Washington, sustained life-threatening injuries and died at Great Plains Health. Drugs and Alcohol were not a factor in the incident.

Washington woman killed in crash near North Platte

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North Platte Police Call Log (May 1-May 4, 2020)

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

They occurred in the Two Rivers Public Health District, in Dawson County.

In addition, Holt County reported its first case.

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.

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 78, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time, is 5,659. 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 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. 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>

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>.

News ReleaseLINCOLN –&nbsp;Two additional deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Sunday.They occurred in the Two Rivers Public Health District, in Dawson County.In addition, Holt County reported its first case.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.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 78, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 p.m. Central Daylight Time, is 5,659. 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 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. 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>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>.

DHHS reports two additional COVID-19 related deaths on Sunday

Unified Command confirms three new cases for COVID-19 in Scotts Bluff County. &nbsp;All three cases are males, one in his 50s and two in their 20s, are close contacts of a previously positive case. The investigation is complete. &nbsp;

Close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. 

Four have recovered and are out of isolation

10 have recovered and are out of isolation

One case has recovered and is out of isolation

22 have recovered and are out of isolation

All Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;

Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;

Keep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.

Stay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.

Stay in touch with friends and loved ones

Check in on people who may be alone or need help.

Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. 

For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. &nbsp;Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

By PPHDUnified Command confirms three new cases for COVID-19 in Scotts Bluff County. &nbsp;All three cases are males, one in his 50s and two in their 20s, are close contacts of a previously positive case. The investigation is complete. &nbsp;Close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. March 2-May 3, 2020Positive: 53Recovered: 37Box Butte County: 1 caseCheyenne County: 7 casesFour have recovered and are out of isolationKimball County: 10 Cases10 have recovered and are out of isolationMorrill County: 1 CaseOne case has recovered and is out of isolationScotts Bluff County: 34 Cases22 have recovered and are out of isolationAll Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;Stay Home Stay home whenever possible. Avoid gathering in any groups.Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;Stay HealthyKeep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.Wash your handsStay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.Stay ConnectedStay in touch with friends and loved onesCheck in on people who may be alone or need help.Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. &nbsp;Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

Three new cases in Scotts Bluff Co., Panhandle total positive count 53

The
West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has four
new cases of COVID-19 from Lincoln County. Two females,
one in her 30’s and the other in her 20’s, a male under the
age of 18, and a male in his 50’s. All individuals are isolating
at home.

“All
of these cases are still under investigation to determine how the virus was contracted,” said Shannon Vanderheiden of WCDHD.

To
date, we have tested
762 individuals in Lincoln County for Coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;
Of the tested 762,
thirty-three have
been positive. Five are travel-related, six
are community spread, sixteen are due to close contact, and the
remaining six
are
under investigation.&nbsp;Sixteen
of these cases have recovered, fourteen are self-isolating, one is in
the hospital, and two people have passed away. All thirty-three
cases
are within Lincoln County. Stay informed of new cases by visiting
our website at<a href="https://wcdhd.org/">
</a><a href="https://wcdhd.org/">https://wcdhd.org/</a>
(information
will be updated daily at 5:45 PM).

<a></a>
Social and physical
distancing helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Public
health officials would like to remind you that if you have a fever of
over 100.4 or symptoms of respiratory illness, please self-isolate
and contact your healthcare provider for additional guidance.&nbsp;
If you are tested, have been in direct contact of a lab-confirmed
case, or traveled outside of Nebraska in the last two weeks REGISTER
with WCDHD at
<a href="https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP">https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP</a>

The
West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has four
new cases of COVID-19 from Lincoln County. Two females,
one in her 30’s and the other in her 20’s, a male under the
age of 18, and a male in his 50’s. All individuals are isolating
at home. 
“All
of these cases are still under investigation to determine how the virus was contracted,” said Shannon Vanderheiden of WCDHD.To
date, we have tested
762 individuals in Lincoln County for Coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;
Of the tested 762,
thirty-three have
been positive. Five are travel-related, six
are community spread, sixteen are due to close contact, and the
remaining six
are
under investigation.&nbsp;Sixteen
of these cases have recovered, fourteen are self-isolating, one is in
the hospital, and two people have passed away. All thirty-three
cases
are within Lincoln County. Stay informed of new cases by visiting
our website at<a href="https://wcdhd.org/">
</a><a href="https://wcdhd.org/">https://wcdhd.org/</a>
(information
will be updated daily at 5:45 PM).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588548435377.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a></a>
Social and physical
distancing helps prevent the spread of COVID-19. 
This
includes:<ol>
 <li>Stay
	home and practice social and physical distancingStay
		HomeAvoid
		gatherings, if you must gather, keep individuals to 10 or less
	
	</li><li>Stay
		Home
		</li><li>Avoid
		gatherings, if you must gather, keep individuals to 10 or less
	</li><li>When
	out stay 6 foot away from others
	</li><li>Cough
	and/or sneeze into your elbow
	</li><li>Wash
	your hands with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds
	</li><li>Do
	not touch your face
	</li><li>Wear
	a community mask - this will help mitigate the spread of the virus
</li>
 </ol>Public
health officials would like to remind you that if you have a fever of
over 100.4 or symptoms of respiratory illness, please self-isolate
and contact your healthcare provider for additional guidance.&nbsp;
If you are tested, have been in direct contact of a lab-confirmed
case, or traveled outside of Nebraska in the last two weeks REGISTER
with WCDHD at
<a href="https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP">https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP</a>

Four new confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Lincoln County

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials are struggling to keep up with the flood of unemployment claims that have been filed since the coronavirus pandemic began.

Nebraska Labor Commissioner John Albin said the state has been adding workers and streamlining its processes, but there have still been unacceptable delays that left workers waiting for their checks.

"I apologize if anyone's been out there waiting a long time," Albin&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/state_and_regional/nebraska-official-apologizes-as-jobless-workers-still-awaiting-checks-feel-frustrated-forgotten/article_f5eaf30a-1857-529b-8fcc-782ec4c61d62.html" target="_blank">said&nbsp;</a>to the Omaha World-Herald for a story published Sunday. "I don't know that it's any comfort but we're not meeting our own standards on this."

Since March 8, the state has received 129,309 new unemployment claims, which is more that the total claims filed during the three previous years combined. The state has processed 96,024 of those claims, but that leaves 33,000 requiring a response.

Albin said the state normally tries to process all new jobless claims within 21 days. During this crisis, the Department of Labor is trying to process 75% of applications within 28 days, but has fallen short of that goal.

Jessica Wagner of Fremont said she's frustrated after waiting more than a month for her unemployment claim to be approved.

"If we cannot count on Nebraska to assist with benefits our employers have paid in on during times of crisis, when can we count on them?" she wrote in a letter to the World-Herald.

The state has increased the number of claims adjusters from 34 to 166 by drafting workers from other departments to help, and has signed a $1.7 million contract with Nelnet in Lincoln to add 100 more to help handle claims.

Nebraska officials also contracted with North End Teleservices in Omaha for $1.3 million to add 36 people to answer phone calls and live chat inquiries, but they have struggled to keep up with the volume of calls.

The governor signed an order last week that should help streamline the process for workers who had multiple employers during the period before they became unemployed. Albin estimated that's 40% of the people filing claims.

The state usually collects information from all those employers before approving a claim, but that has been difficult with so many businesses closed. The governor's order allows unemployment claims to be approved with information only from a person's most recent employer.

"We're hustling like crazy on this," Albin said. "One way or another, we're going to get there."

State health officials said the number of confirmed virus cases increased by 488 to 5,326 this weekend, and three additional deaths were reported. Nebraska has now had 76 deaths linked to COVID-19. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher, because many people have not been tested and studies suggest that people can be infected without feeling sick.

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) - Nebraska officials are struggling to keep up with the flood of unemployment claims that have been filed since the coronavirus pandemic began.Nebraska Labor Commissioner John Albin said the state has been adding workers and streamlining its processes, but there have still been unacceptable delays that left workers waiting for their checks."I apologize if anyone's been out there waiting a long time," Albin&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/state_and_regional/nebraska-official-apologizes-as-jobless-workers-still-awaiting-checks-feel-frustrated-forgotten/article_f5eaf30a-1857-529b-8fcc-782ec4c61d62.html" target="_blank">said&nbsp;</a>to the Omaha World-Herald for a story published Sunday. "I don't know that it's any comfort but we're not meeting our own standards on this."Since March 8, the state has received 129,309 new unemployment claims, which is more that the total claims filed during the three previous years combined. The state has processed 96,024 of those claims, but that leaves 33,000 requiring a response.Albin said the state normally tries to process all new jobless claims within 21 days. During this crisis, the Department of Labor is trying to process 75% of applications within 28 days, but has fallen short of that goal.Jessica Wagner of Fremont said she's frustrated after waiting more than a month for her unemployment claim to be approved."If we cannot count on Nebraska to assist with benefits our employers have paid in on during times of crisis, when can we count on them?" she wrote in a letter to the World-Herald.The state has increased the number of claims adjusters from 34 to 166 by drafting workers from other departments to help, and has signed a $1.7 million contract with Nelnet in Lincoln to add 100 more to help handle claims.Nebraska officials also contracted with North End Teleservices in Omaha for $1.3 million to add 36 people to answer phone calls and live chat inquiries, but they have struggled to keep up with the volume of calls.The governor signed an order last week that should help streamline the process for workers who had multiple employers during the period before they became unemployed. Albin estimated that's 40% of the people filing claims.The state usually collects information from all those employers before approving a claim, but that has been difficult with so many businesses closed. The governor's order allows unemployment claims to be approved with information only from a person's most recent employer."We're hustling like crazy on this," Albin said. "One way or another, we're going to get there."State health officials said the number of confirmed virus cases increased by 488 to 5,326 this weekend, and three additional deaths were reported. Nebraska has now had 76 deaths linked to COVID-19. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher, because many people have not been tested and studies suggest that people can be infected without feeling sick.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.

Nebraska struggles to process flood of unemployment claims

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is forging ahead with plans to hold the nation's first in-person election in more than a month, despite health concerns about the coronavirus pandemic and allegations that political motivations are fueling opposition to an all-mail approach.

Barring an unexpected change, Nebraska's primary will take place on May 12 - five weeks after Wisconsin held the last in-person balloting when courts sided with Republican legislators who pushed for that election to go forward.

Republicans who hold all statewide offices and control the Legislature have encouraged people to cast early, absentee ballots. However, they argue state law requires polling sites to be open and that it's important for voters to have a choice for how they vote, even amid health concerns.

As Secretary of State Bob Evnen put it last month, "I don't think Nebraskans are going to stay away from the polls or not vote because of a microbe."

Gov. Pete Ricketts agreed, arguing that to do otherwise would "disenfranchise voters who want to go to the polls," and noting that elections were previously held despite wars and pandemics.

Others, however, questioned the motives behind the decision to hold the first statewide election since Wisconsin's much-criticized April 7 primary and expressed doubt voting could safely take place. Wisconsin health officials say more than 50 people who voted in person or worked the polls during the election have tested positive for COVID-19.

The primary will decide a Democratic contest to pick a nominee to face Republican Rep. Don Bacon in the Omaha area's 2nd Congressional District, traditionally the only U.S. House seat in Nebraska where Democrats are competitive. Voters will also pick candidates in dozens of ostensibly nonpartisan legislative races, which could help determine whether Republicans gain a super-majority in the Legislature.

Nebraska Democrats have asserted for weeks that Republican leaders don't want to hold an all-mail election because of concern it would help Democrats, especially in the urban areas of Omaha and Lincoln. Republicans have dismissed such claims, but Democrats point to statements by President Donald Trump who has said "you'd never have a Republican elected in this country again" if all states switched to vote-by-mail.

Jane Kleeb, chairwoman of the Nebraska Democratic Party, said Ricketts and the state GOP are concerned about any change that might boost Democratic turnout.

"The only reason I can see the governor not doing it is for political reasons," she said. "The Republican playbook is always to suppress the vote. They know that when fewer people vote, they win elections."

Sen. Steve Lathrop, an Omaha Democrat, also criticized the decision to hold a polling place election but said that with the primary only a couple of weeks away, it's too late to change course now.

"Given the seriousness of the pandemic, we should have turned this into a vote-by-mail election," Lathrop said.

Officials plan to provide all poll workers with gloves, masks, hand sanitizer and wipes, and the state has purchased 50 additional ballot drop-off boxes for counties.

Still, the planned election concerns some public health officials who watched what happened in Wisconsin, where public health departments reported at least 19 people who voted or worked at the polls have tested positive for the coronavirus.

"If you're asking me as a public health official whether this increases the risk of transmission, the answer is definitive - yes," said Dr. Patrick Remington, director of the University of Wisconsin Madison's Preventative Medicine Residency Program. "That is a scientific fact, no matter how much protective equipment people wear."

Still, even some voting-rights advocates say they understand the difficulty of shifting to all-mail voting.

State Sen. Adam Morfeld, a Democrat from Lincoln, said Nebraska "doesn't have the mechanisms in place" for vote-by-mail.

And Westin Miller, public policy director of Civic Nebraska, a group that advocates for statewide voting-by-mail, said the state doesn't have notification or tracking technology to let voters know whether their ballot has been sent, received or counted. That could lead to ballots getting rejected without voters realizing it and undermining public confidence in voting by mail, he said.

"As a vote-by-mail advocate, the worst thing that could happen is for our first vote-by-mail election not to go well," Miller said. "I want it to go as smoothly as possible."

More than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/586c59f26411782928a1d160c9238517" target="_blank">300,000 Nebraskans</a>&nbsp;have requested absentee ballots, a level Evnen described as "unprecedented." Given that, officials are predicting among the highest turnouts ever for a Nebraska primary.

What's less clear is whether enough workers will show up to operate voting sites.

Nebraska has 1,240 precincts statewide but some will be merged into one location to protect vulnerable residents, said Cindi Allen, a spokeswoman for Evnen. For instance, a polling site normally located in an assisted living facility will likely get moved to another voting site with adequate space, such as a high school gym. Allen said counties will decide.

Janice Walker, 73, of Lincoln, said she still plans to work at the polls but hopes for low in-person turnout and that people "use their heads and vote by mail."

"If we have a nice, slow, boring day, that will be good for me," she said. "It's not a good situation for the workers."

Martha Brown, 83, of Lincoln, said she hasn't yet decided whether to work at the polls as she has done for more than a decade, partly out of concern for her health and partly because she doesn't want to end up having to enforce social-distancing requirements.

"I'm not going to police the place," she said. "What am I, the voter cop? I don't think so."

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is forging ahead with plans to hold the nation's first in-person election in more than a month, despite health concerns about the coronavirus pandemic and allegations that political motivations are fueling opposition to an all-mail approach.Barring an unexpected change, Nebraska's primary will take place on May 12 - five weeks after Wisconsin held the last in-person balloting when courts sided with Republican legislators who pushed for that election to go forward.Republicans who hold all statewide offices and control the Legislature have encouraged people to cast early, absentee ballots. However, they argue state law requires polling sites to be open and that it's important for voters to have a choice for how they vote, even amid health concerns.As Secretary of State Bob Evnen put it last month, "I don't think Nebraskans are going to stay away from the polls or not vote because of a microbe."Gov. Pete Ricketts agreed, arguing that to do otherwise would "disenfranchise voters who want to go to the polls," and noting that elections were previously held despite wars and pandemics.Others, however, questioned the motives behind the decision to hold the first statewide election since Wisconsin's much-criticized April 7 primary and expressed doubt voting could safely take place. Wisconsin health officials say more than 50 people who voted in person or worked the polls during the election have tested positive for COVID-19.The primary will decide a Democratic contest to pick a nominee to face Republican Rep. Don Bacon in the Omaha area's 2nd Congressional District, traditionally the only U.S. House seat in Nebraska where Democrats are competitive. Voters will also pick candidates in dozens of ostensibly nonpartisan legislative races, which could help determine whether Republicans gain a super-majority in the Legislature.Nebraska Democrats have asserted for weeks that Republican leaders don't want to hold an all-mail election because of concern it would help Democrats, especially in the urban areas of Omaha and Lincoln. Republicans have dismissed such claims, but Democrats point to statements by President Donald Trump who has said "you'd never have a Republican elected in this country again" if all states switched to vote-by-mail.Jane Kleeb, chairwoman of the Nebraska Democratic Party, said Ricketts and the state GOP are concerned about any change that might boost Democratic turnout."The only reason I can see the governor not doing it is for political reasons," she said. "The Republican playbook is always to suppress the vote. They know that when fewer people vote, they win elections."Sen. Steve Lathrop, an Omaha Democrat, also criticized the decision to hold a polling place election but said that with the primary only a couple of weeks away, it's too late to change course now."Given the seriousness of the pandemic, we should have turned this into a vote-by-mail election," Lathrop said.Officials plan to provide all poll workers with gloves, masks, hand sanitizer and wipes, and the state has purchased 50 additional ballot drop-off boxes for counties.Still, the planned election concerns some public health officials who watched what happened in Wisconsin, where public health departments reported at least 19 people who voted or worked at the polls have tested positive for the coronavirus."If you're asking me as a public health official whether this increases the risk of transmission, the answer is definitive - yes," said Dr. Patrick Remington, director of the University of Wisconsin Madison's Preventative Medicine Residency Program. "That is a scientific fact, no matter how much protective equipment people wear."Still, even some voting-rights advocates say they understand the difficulty of shifting to all-mail voting.State Sen. Adam Morfeld, a Democrat from Lincoln, said Nebraska "doesn't have the mechanisms in place" for vote-by-mail.And Westin Miller, public policy director of Civic Nebraska, a group that advocates for statewide voting-by-mail, said the state doesn't have notification or tracking technology to let voters know whether their ballot has been sent, received or counted. That could lead to ballots getting rejected without voters realizing it and undermining public confidence in voting by mail, he said."As a vote-by-mail advocate, the worst thing that could happen is for our first vote-by-mail election not to go well," Miller said. "I want it to go as smoothly as possible."More than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/586c59f26411782928a1d160c9238517" target="_blank">300,000 Nebraskans</a>&nbsp;have requested absentee ballots, a level Evnen described as "unprecedented." Given that, officials are predicting among the highest turnouts ever for a Nebraska primary.What's less clear is whether enough workers will show up to operate voting sites.Nebraska has 1,240 precincts statewide but some will be merged into one location to protect vulnerable residents, said Cindi Allen, a spokeswoman for Evnen. For instance, a polling site normally located in an assisted living facility will likely get moved to another voting site with adequate space, such as a high school gym. Allen said counties will decide.Janice Walker, 73, of Lincoln, said she still plans to work at the polls but hopes for low in-person turnout and that people "use their heads and vote by mail.""If we have a nice, slow, boring day, that will be good for me," she said. "It's not a good situation for the workers."Martha Brown, 83, of Lincoln, said she hasn't yet decided whether to work at the polls as she has done for more than a decade, partly out of concern for her health and partly because she doesn't want to end up having to enforce social-distancing requirements."I'm not going to police the place," she said. "What am I, the voter cop? I don't think so."

Nebraska will open voting sites for primary despite concerns


In
March, we temporarily suspended our casino, dining, and hotel
operations for the safety of our employees and guests. We chose this
action because we fully support the measures recommended by the CDC in
response to the COVID-19 epidemic. Today we have a reminder of why
these precautions were important. Two employees at our fuel plaza
have tested positive for COVID-19, and are now following
self-isolation and quarantine procedures. We hope you will join us in
wishing them a speedy and complete recovery. We are cautiously
optimistic that our previous decision to suspend operations and limit
contact will help protect others. 


Because
of this, we are halting all operations at our fuel plaza, except pay
at the pump, until further notice. Our casino, dining and hotel
operations will remain closed as well. While this is not the news we
hoped to share at this time, we are continuing to sanitize, practice
social distancing, and enact other measures to keep our employees,
guests and communities safe.

We
have always said that we will not open again until we are safely able
to do so, and we remain committed to that. Thank you for your support
and understanding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588543635013.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Statement from Rosebud Casino
In
March, we temporarily suspended our casino, dining, and hotel
operations for the safety of our employees and guests. We chose this
action because we fully support the measures recommended by the CDC in
response to the COVID-19 epidemic. Today we have a reminder of why
these precautions were important. Two employees at our fuel plaza
have tested positive for COVID-19, and are now following
self-isolation and quarantine procedures. We hope you will join us in
wishing them a speedy and complete recovery. We are cautiously
optimistic that our previous decision to suspend operations and limit
contact will help protect others. 
Because
of this, we are halting all operations at our fuel plaza, except pay
at the pump, until further notice. Our casino, dining and hotel
operations will remain closed as well. While this is not the news we
hoped to share at this time, we are continuing to sanitize, practice
social distancing, and enact other measures to keep our employees,
guests and communities safe.We
have always said that we will not open again until we are safely able
to do so, and we remain committed to that. Thank you for your support
and understanding.

Two employees at Rosebud Casino fuel plaza test positive for COVID-19, will remain closed

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on May 4,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:00 A.M.

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on May 4, 2020
at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:15
A.M.

The
meeting will be open to the public but we are strongly
encouraging the public to utilize the

technology
listed below for attending the meeting due to the potential spread of
COVID-19.

Lincoln
County is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Time:
May 4, 2020 09:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)

<a href="https://zoom.us/j/487812444">https://zoom.us/j/487812444</a>

2.	Approve
minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting

Recess
as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the
Lincoln County Board of Equalization.

4.	9:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:

Adjourn
or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization
and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.

5.	9:30
A.M.	COVID-19 update by Brandon Myers, Region 51 Emergency 


6.	9:45
A.M.	Discuss and consider settling with Jeremy D. Hill in regards to
the

	guardian
ad litem fees due and owing to “The county of Lincoln” by Jeremy
Hill,

	Case
No. CI 99-135, in the District Court of Lincoln County, Nebraska

7.	10:00
A.M.	Public hearing on the manager application of William J. Peers
for

	Lake
Maloney Golf Course Inc. located at 608 Birdie Lane, North Platte,
NE. Lake 		Maloney Golf Course Inc. currently has a Class I Beer
On-Sale Only Liquor License

	Consider
action following public hearing

8.	10:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider a special designated liquor license
submitted by

	Big
Red Liquor for a bull riding event to be held on May 22 &amp; 23,
2020 at North Platte

	Discuss
and consider a special designated liquor license submitted by Beg Rid
Liquor

	for
a wedding reception to be held on May 30, 2020 at the Lincoln County
Fairgrounds

9.	10:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider additional fencing concerning the South 


10.	10:40
A.M.	Presentation of construction plan and timeline by Carla O’Dell,

	Lincoln
County Highway Supt., on the Cattle Growers Road Project

  Hear
concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, and their
representative

NOTICE
OF HEARING AND AGENDAMonday,
May 4, 2020Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on May 4,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:00 A.M.Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on May 4, 2020
at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:15
A.M.The
meeting will be open to the public but we are strongly
encouraging the public to utilize thetechnology
listed below for attending the meeting due to the potential spread of
COVID-19.Lincoln
County is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.Topic:
Board of Commissioners MeetingTime:
May 4, 2020 09:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)Join
Zoom Meeting<a href="https://zoom.us/j/487812444">https://zoom.us/j/487812444</a>Meeting
ID: 487 812 444One
tap mobile+13462487799,,487812444#
US (Houston)+16699006833,,487812444#
US (San Jose)Dial
by your location 
 +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) 
 +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) 
 +1 253 215 8782 US 
 +1 301 715 8592 US 
 +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) 
 +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)Meeting
ID: 487 812 4441.	Open
with prayer2.	Approve
minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting	held
April 27, 20203.	Consider
the following:<ol>
 <li>Claims
	&amp; Treasurer’s Receipts
	</li><li>Acceptance
	of the resignation of Deb McCarthy from the HIPAA Steering Committee
	</li><li>Authorizing
	the Chairman to sign the rental agreements for the Wallace American 
	
</li>
 </ol>Legion
Hall for the 2020 ElectionsRecess
as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the
Lincoln County Board of Equalization.4.	9:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:<ol>
 <li>Approve
	minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Equalization meeting
</li>
 </ol>held
on April 27, 2020<ol>
 <li>Certificates
	of correction and refund as submitted by the County Assessor	
</li>
 </ol>Adjourn
or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization
and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.5.	9:30
A.M.	COVID-19 update by Brandon Myers, Region 51 Emergency 
	Management
Director6.	9:45
A.M.	Discuss and consider settling with Jeremy D. Hill in regards to
the	guardian
ad litem fees due and owing to “The county of Lincoln” by Jeremy
Hill,	Case
No. CI 99-135, in the District Court of Lincoln County, Nebraska7.	10:00
A.M.	Public hearing on the manager application of William J. Peers
for	Lake
Maloney Golf Course Inc. located at 608 Birdie Lane, North Platte,
NE. Lake 		Maloney Golf Course Inc. currently has a Class I Beer
On-Sale Only Liquor License	Consider
action following public hearing8.	10:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider a special designated liquor license
submitted by	Big
Red Liquor for a bull riding event to be held on May 22 &amp; 23,
2020 at North Platte	Livestock
Auction	Discuss
and consider a special designated liquor license submitted by Beg Rid
Liquor	for
a wedding reception to be held on May 30, 2020 at the Lincoln County
Fairgrounds9.	10:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider additional fencing concerning the South 
	River
Road Reconstruction project10.	10:40
A.M.	Presentation of construction plan and timeline by Carla O’Dell,	Lincoln
County Highway Supt., on the Cattle Growers Road Project	Consider
approval of plan Hear
concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, and their
representative								Rebecca
J. Rossell								Lincoln
County Clerk

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners Agenda (May 4, 2020)

K-State’s Procter says pandemic could eventually help improve smaller stores

MANHATTAN – In rural towns across Kansas, residents are often pressed – even during normal times – to find a reliable and safe source of food nearby.

The current outbreak of the novel coronavirus which causes the disease COVID-19 has made that challenge even greater in some parts of the state.

“Many small town grocery stores are adjusting their operations during this pandemic,” said David Procter, director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/cecd">Center for Engagement and Community Development</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, who has studied the importance of grocery stores to rural communities.

Procter spoke recently on the K-State podcast,&nbsp;<a href="http://extensionfiles.libsyn.com/rural-grocery-stores-and-sheltering-in-small-towns-david-procter">The Extension Files</a>, produced by K-State Research and Extension.

Procter notes that the grocery store in rural communities is often a barometer of the economy in small towns.

“As the grocery store goes, so goes the local economy,” he said. “If you have small-town grocery stores that at this point in time are struggling, it has to have a ripple economic effect on other small businesses in that community.”

Procter said many rural communities are going to almost “heroic” lengths to keep their stores open, many now offering delivery or curbside pickup services that they had not offered prior to the pandemic.

“And some grocery stores are spearheading food giveaways,” Procter said. “There are these things called ‘Blessing Boxes’ where people provide food – not only the grocery store – and residents can provide extra food or products that people need, and others can come and pick those up for free.”

Some small grocery stores, he added, are now exploring online ordering, which has long been a challenge in rural communities because of the lower reliability of broadband service in those areas.

“One good thing that could come out of the other side of this is we have a grocery store infrastructure that is going to be more conducive to folks who maybe can’t physically get to the store,” Procter said. “That may include elderly people, or people with low income that don’t have reliable transportation. I think there are going to be more options for people to access groceries in a variety of ways that maybe they didn’t have before all of this happened.”

It’s an opportunity, perhaps, to close the digital divide, or disparity, that exists in access to the Internet between urban and rural areas across the country.

“I really hope so,” Procter said. “This is the time when we are realizing across the country, but certainly in rural areas, where Internet service is spotty, and just how important it is to have this service available. I would certainly hope that something would come out of this that would improve broadband access.

“I also think that folks are increasingly recognizing the importance of having some kind of food access in their community. I would not be surprised once this situation has improved that there is an increased push among some rural communities to establish local access to groceries and healthy food.”

Procter said the Center for Engagement and Community Development is available to help grocery store owners work toward improving infrastructure, including moving point-of-sale systems to an online process.

The Center is part of a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ruralgrocery.org/">Rural Grocery Initiative</a>&nbsp;that includes the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansashealth.org/">Kansas Health Foundation</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">Network Kansas</a>&nbsp;to help grocery stores purchase point-of-sale systems. More information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ruralgrocery.org/">www.ruralgrocery.org</a>.

Other rural issues that Procter spoke about during the recent podcast include how the pandemic is affecting youth and public education; the inter-dependence of farm families during times of crisis; and how the COVID-19 pandemic is different from other natural disasters.

The full podcast is&nbsp;<a href="http://extensionfiles.libsyn.com/rural-grocery-stores-and-sheltering-in-small-towns-david-procter">available online</a>.

K-State’s Procter says pandemic could eventually help improve smaller storesK-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN – In rural towns across Kansas, residents are often pressed – even during normal times – to find a reliable and safe source of food nearby.The current outbreak of the novel coronavirus which causes the disease COVID-19 has made that challenge even greater in some parts of the state.“Many small town grocery stores are adjusting their operations during this pandemic,” said David Procter, director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/cecd">Center for Engagement and Community Development</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, who has studied the importance of grocery stores to rural communities.Procter spoke recently on the K-State podcast,&nbsp;<a href="http://extensionfiles.libsyn.com/rural-grocery-stores-and-sheltering-in-small-towns-david-procter">The Extension Files</a>, produced by K-State Research and Extension.Procter notes that the grocery store in rural communities is often a barometer of the economy in small towns.“As the grocery store goes, so goes the local economy,” he said. “If you have small-town grocery stores that at this point in time are struggling, it has to have a ripple economic effect on other small businesses in that community.”Procter said many rural communities are going to almost “heroic” lengths to keep their stores open, many now offering delivery or curbside pickup services that they had not offered prior to the pandemic.“And some grocery stores are spearheading food giveaways,” Procter said. “There are these things called ‘Blessing Boxes’ where people provide food – not only the grocery store – and residents can provide extra food or products that people need, and others can come and pick those up for free.”Some small grocery stores, he added, are now exploring online ordering, which has long been a challenge in rural communities because of the lower reliability of broadband service in those areas.“One good thing that could come out of the other side of this is we have a grocery store infrastructure that is going to be more conducive to folks who maybe can’t physically get to the store,” Procter said. “That may include elderly people, or people with low income that don’t have reliable transportation. I think there are going to be more options for people to access groceries in a variety of ways that maybe they didn’t have before all of this happened.”It’s an opportunity, perhaps, to close the digital divide, or disparity, that exists in access to the Internet between urban and rural areas across the country.“I really hope so,” Procter said. “This is the time when we are realizing across the country, but certainly in rural areas, where Internet service is spotty, and just how important it is to have this service available. I would certainly hope that something would come out of this that would improve broadband access.“I also think that folks are increasingly recognizing the importance of having some kind of food access in their community. I would not be surprised once this situation has improved that there is an increased push among some rural communities to establish local access to groceries and healthy food.”Procter said the Center for Engagement and Community Development is available to help grocery store owners work toward improving infrastructure, including moving point-of-sale systems to an online process.The Center is part of a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ruralgrocery.org/">Rural Grocery Initiative</a>&nbsp;that includes the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansashealth.org/">Kansas Health Foundation</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">Network Kansas</a>&nbsp;to help grocery stores purchase point-of-sale systems. More information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ruralgrocery.org/">www.ruralgrocery.org</a>.Other rural issues that Procter spoke about during the recent podcast include how the pandemic is affecting youth and public education; the inter-dependence of farm families during times of crisis; and how the COVID-19 pandemic is different from other natural disasters.The full podcast is&nbsp;<a href="http://extensionfiles.libsyn.com/rural-grocery-stores-and-sheltering-in-small-towns-david-procter">available online</a>.

Rural grocery stores finding creative ways to stay open, serve communities

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

The South Heartland District Health Department reported two deaths in Adams County, a female in her 90s and a male in his 80s, both hospitalized with underlying health conditions -&nbsp;<a href="https://southheartlandhealth.org/news-events/current-news/" target="_blank">https://southheartlandhealth.org/news-events/current-news/&nbsp;</a>

A third death was reported in Dakota County -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth&nbsp;</a>.

Frontier and Keith county have recently reported their first cases.

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 76, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 5,326. &nbsp;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;

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Three additional deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Saturday.The South Heartland District Health Department reported two deaths in Adams County, a female in her 90s and a male in his 80s, both hospitalized with underlying health conditions -&nbsp;<a href="https://southheartlandhealth.org/news-events/current-news/" target="_blank">https://southheartlandhealth.org/news-events/current-news/&nbsp;</a>A third death was reported in Dakota County -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth&nbsp;</a>.Frontier and Keith county have recently reported their first cases.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.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 76, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 5,326. &nbsp;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 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. 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>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>.

Three additional COVID-19 related deaths reported in Nebraska on Saturday

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - About two-thirds of deaths from the coronavirus in Nebraska have involved residents of long-term care facilities, the governor said.

Nebraska has reported 4,838 confirmed cases of COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, and 73 deaths. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher than the number of confirmed cases, though, because many people have not been tested and studies suggest that people can be infected without feeling sick.

At least 48 of Nebraska's deaths have involved nursing home residents,&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/majority-of-coronavirus-deaths-in-nebraska-have-come-from-long-term-care-patients/article_7de290d6-7be7-5bc4-8e58-5fba85c85f84.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported.

The statistics, provided by Gov. Pete Ricketts during a news briefing on Friday, were evidence of the dangers that older people face from the virus, especially those dealing with other health conditions.

Nationally, more than 11,000 nursing home deaths have been linked to COVID-19.

Statewide restrictions in Nebraska are easing starting Monday, when restaurants and businesses can reopen and religious gatherings can resume, though social distancing requirements will remain in place.

Douglas County Health Director Adi Pour said Friday that the timing for reopening the state was right because hospitals have enough capacity and people are becoming fatigued and starting to stray from all the regulations, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/health-director-its-time-to-relax-some-restrictions-in-omaha-metro-area/article_035476e2-e3f6-58b3-8cea-5e6d042958ad.html" target="_blank">Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;reported.

"We need to be realistic," Pour said. "I think that's what the governor is seeing, too."

But Pour, speaking at a news conference, expressed concern about churches resuming services.

"My advice would be if you are vulnerable, you are at high risk," Pour said. "There are many other avenues where you can worship, and I would prefer individuals who are elderly, have underlying illnesses, immunocompromised systems, that those individuals stay at home."

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - About two-thirds of deaths from the coronavirus in Nebraska have involved residents of long-term care facilities, the governor said.Nebraska has reported 4,838 confirmed cases of COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, and 73 deaths. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher than the number of confirmed cases, though, because many people have not been tested and studies suggest that people can be infected without feeling sick.At least 48 of Nebraska's deaths have involved nursing home residents,&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/majority-of-coronavirus-deaths-in-nebraska-have-come-from-long-term-care-patients/article_7de290d6-7be7-5bc4-8e58-5fba85c85f84.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">The Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported.The statistics, provided by Gov. Pete Ricketts during a news briefing on Friday, were evidence of the dangers that older people face from the virus, especially those dealing with other health conditions.Nationally, more than 11,000 nursing home deaths have been linked to COVID-19.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.Statewide restrictions in Nebraska are easing starting Monday, when restaurants and businesses can reopen and religious gatherings can resume, though social distancing requirements will remain in place.Douglas County Health Director Adi Pour said Friday that the timing for reopening the state was right because hospitals have enough capacity and people are becoming fatigued and starting to stray from all the regulations, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/health-director-its-time-to-relax-some-restrictions-in-omaha-metro-area/article_035476e2-e3f6-58b3-8cea-5e6d042958ad.html" target="_blank">Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;reported."We need to be realistic," Pour said. "I think that's what the governor is seeing, too."But Pour, speaking at a news conference, expressed concern about churches resuming services."My advice would be if you are vulnerable, you are at high risk," Pour said. "There are many other avenues where you can worship, and I would prefer individuals who are elderly, have underlying illnesses, immunocompromised systems, that those individuals stay at home."

Majority of coronavirus deaths in Nebraska at nursing homes

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Some big meatpacking plants may soon be reopening. It's a sign that seems to back up President Donald Trump's assertion this week that his order keeping packing plants open during the coronavirus crisis “solved their problems.” 

But the reality isn’t likely to be so easy. Meatpackers still have a workforce likely to be depleted by illness or unwillingness to risk illness. 

Even plants that keep the production lines moving will have to do so more slowly, renewing concerns about whether Americans will get as much meat as they’re used to.&nbsp;

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Some big meatpacking plants may soon be reopening. It's a sign that seems to back up President Donald Trump's assertion this week that his order keeping packing plants open during the coronavirus crisis “solved their problems.” But the reality isn’t likely to be so easy. Meatpackers still have a workforce likely to be depleted by illness or unwillingness to risk illness. Even plants that keep the production lines moving will have to do so more slowly, renewing concerns about whether Americans will get as much meat as they’re used to.&nbsp;

Some meat plants reopen, but President Trump's order may not be cure-all

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Arkansas Democrat-Gazette) — A company representative says Union Pacific Corp. is furloughing most of the staff at its facility in North Little Rock that repairs the railroad’s locomotives after seeing a substantial drop in business volume because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Kristen South is the Nebraska-based railroad's senior director for corporate communications and media relations. She declined to specify how many people were laid off but said employees on Thursday started receiving notifications regarding the Jenks Locomotive Facility’s temporary closure. 

South added that the company will reevaluate fiscal conditions during the week of May 18 to determine if the facility can resume operations June 1.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Arkansas Democrat-Gazette) — A company representative says Union Pacific Corp. is furloughing most of the staff at its facility in North Little Rock that repairs the railroad’s locomotives after seeing a substantial drop in business volume because of the coronavirus pandemic. Kristen South is the Nebraska-based railroad's senior director for corporate communications and media relations. She declined to specify how many people were laid off but said employees on Thursday started receiving notifications regarding the Jenks Locomotive Facility’s temporary closure. South added that the company will reevaluate fiscal conditions during the week of May 18 to determine if the facility can resume operations June 1.

Union Pacific laying off staff because of the virus outbreak

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Maintenance work to begin on Highway 83 near McCook

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

The Sarpy/Cass Health Department reported its first death, that of an individual in his 80s who lived in Sarpy County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SarpyCassHealth/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/SarpyCassHealth/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;Two Rivers Public Health Department reported its second death, that of a woman in her 60s from Dawson County. She had been hospitalized and had underlying health conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trphd.org/in-the-news/" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/in-the-news/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;The West Central District Health Department reported its second death, that of a Lincoln County woman in her 60s who was hospitalized and suffered serious underlying health conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wcdhd/photos/a.167116546776717/1609932935828397/?type=3&amp;theater" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/wcdhd/photos/a.167116546776717/1609932935828397/?type=3&amp;theater&nbsp;</a>

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 73, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 4,838. &nbsp;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;

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Three additional deaths related to COVID-19 were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today.The Sarpy/Cass Health Department reported its first death, that of an individual in his 80s who lived in Sarpy County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SarpyCassHealth/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/SarpyCassHealth/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;Two Rivers Public Health Department reported its second death, that of a woman in her 60s from Dawson County. She had been hospitalized and had underlying health conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trphd.org/in-the-news/" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/in-the-news/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;The West Central District Health Department reported its second death, that of a Lincoln County woman in her 60s who was hospitalized and suffered serious underlying health conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wcdhd/photos/a.167116546776717/1609932935828397/?type=3&amp;theater" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/wcdhd/photos/a.167116546776717/1609932935828397/?type=3&amp;theater&nbsp;</a>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.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 73, according to the DHHS data dashboard. The state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 4,838. &nbsp;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 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. 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>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>.

State health officials report 3 COVID-19 related deaths Friday, 73 total in state

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A federal judge has denied the American Civil Liberties Union's request that Nebraska prison officials disclose plans for preventing and managing the coronavirus in the state's prisons.

The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/judge-denies-aclu-request-for-nebraska-prison-coronavirus-plan/article_4400ffed-8118-5545-bbf5-0d08f1e33860.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_LJSNebraskaNews" target="_blank">reports</a>&nbsp;that U.S. District Judge Michael Nelson said the court would not order the disclosure because the information is not relevant to any claim or defense in the pending case. The lawsuit, filed in 2017, argues that Nebraska's prison overcrowding and staffing shortages are effectively depriving inmates of critical medical care.

Nebraska's prisons have faced years of scrutiny from lawmakers, and the department has struggled to recruit and retain employees.

No coronavirus cases have been confirmed among inmates, but four staff members have tested positive, three of them at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.

Nebraska Department of Correctional Services director Scott Frakes said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38453f521049059482fb3f275a8a954d" target="_blank">earlier</a>&nbsp;this month that he doesn't plan to release the department's pandemic plan because doing so could anger inmates and reveal security information that would threaten safety in the prisons.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A federal judge has denied the American Civil Liberties Union's request that Nebraska prison officials disclose plans for preventing and managing the coronavirus in the state's prisons.The Lincoln Journal-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/judge-denies-aclu-request-for-nebraska-prison-coronavirus-plan/article_4400ffed-8118-5545-bbf5-0d08f1e33860.html?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter_LJSNebraskaNews" target="_blank">reports</a>&nbsp;that U.S. District Judge Michael Nelson said the court would not order the disclosure because the information is not relevant to any claim or defense in the pending case. The lawsuit, filed in 2017, argues that Nebraska's prison overcrowding and staffing shortages are effectively depriving inmates of critical medical care.Nebraska's prisons have faced years of scrutiny from lawmakers, and the department has struggled to recruit and retain employees.No coronavirus cases have been confirmed among inmates, but four staff members have tested positive, three of them at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.Nebraska Department of Correctional Services director Scott Frakes said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38453f521049059482fb3f275a8a954d" target="_blank">earlier</a>&nbsp;this month that he doesn't plan to release the department's pandemic plan because doing so could anger inmates and reveal security information that would threaten safety in the prisons.

Judge denies request for Nebraska prison coronavirus plan

LINCOLN, Neb.-At his daily press briefing, Governor Pete Ricketts proclaimed May as “Beef Month” in Nebraska.&nbsp; He also overviewed the actions the State has taken to assist meat processors with their health and safety practices.

Additionally, he announced the availability of the State’s latest directed health measures (DHMs) for all 19 local health departments (LHDs).&nbsp; The new DHMs can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fsh%2Fiuwv40yommq81m3%2FAAAYgdnJYg3wWuwiPxPL8SEpa%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574159964&amp;sdata=N4cPCE72MC6uRzEaRW%2BXn%2Fq%2BiR7Udr7mUd2Pwvv8lPU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; A map of Nebraska’s LHDs is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/NE_Health_Dept_Map_Dec_2016.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Steve Wellman, Director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, and Buck Wehrbein, Federation Division Chair for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, joined the Governor to celebrate Beef Month.&nbsp; Shelly Schwedhelm, Executive Director of Emergency Management and Biopreparedness for Nebraska Medicine, also took part in the press conference.&nbsp; She announced the availability of a new guide that offers best practices and recommendations for meat processors as they work to minimize the risk of coronavirus. &nbsp;Shelly and a team of experts have toured 11 meatpacking plants over the past two weeks to provide technical assistance and further develop the guidance document, titled “Meat Processing Facility COVID-19 Playbook.”

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today we are celebrating Beef Month in Nebraska.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beef has been a part of Nebraska’s rich history since the beginning of our state.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Hard-working men, women, and families came to Nebraska to pioneer the cattle industry.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;The cattle industry grew, and it is the largest driver of our largest industry, agriculture.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588389314727.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium) and Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director&nbsp;Steve Wellman (standing, far left) at today’s press briefing." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium) and Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director&nbsp;Steve Wellman (standing, far left) at today’s press briefing.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-At his daily press briefing, Governor Pete Ricketts proclaimed May as “Beef Month” in Nebraska.&nbsp; He also overviewed the actions the State has taken to assist meat processors with their health and safety practices.Additionally, he announced the availability of the State’s latest directed health measures (DHMs) for all 19 local health departments (LHDs).&nbsp; The new DHMs can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fsh%2Fiuwv40yommq81m3%2FAAAYgdnJYg3wWuwiPxPL8SEpa%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574159964&amp;sdata=N4cPCE72MC6uRzEaRW%2BXn%2Fq%2BiR7Udr7mUd2Pwvv8lPU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; A map of Nebraska’s LHDs is available by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/NE_Health_Dept_Map_Dec_2016.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Steve Wellman, Director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, and Buck Wehrbein, Federation Division Chair for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, joined the Governor to celebrate Beef Month.&nbsp; Shelly Schwedhelm, Executive Director of Emergency Management and Biopreparedness for Nebraska Medicine, also took part in the press conference.&nbsp; She announced the availability of a new guide that offers best practices and recommendations for meat processors as they work to minimize the risk of coronavirus. &nbsp;Shelly and a team of experts have toured 11 meatpacking plants over the past two weeks to provide technical assistance and further develop the guidance document, titled “Meat Processing Facility COVID-19 Playbook.”Gov. Ricketts: Beef Month·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today we are celebrating Beef Month in Nebraska.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beef has been a part of Nebraska’s rich history since the beginning of our state.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Hard-working men, women, and families came to Nebraska to pioneer the cattle industry.o&nbsp;&nbsp;The cattle industry grew, and it is the largest driver of our largest industry, agriculture.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When we think of beef, we often think of ranches, pastures, and rolling hills. &nbsp;But it’s more than that.o&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s a main economic driver in our state. &nbsp;It generates jobs throughout the entire supply chain.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Corn and soybean producers, feed grain suppliers, processers, packers, grocery retailers, and more are intricately connected with our beef industry.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The last ten years have been a decade of growth for Nebraska beef exports, with a 96% increase in total beef exports.Director Wellman: Beef Month·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska is known as the “Beef State” because of the wonderful, high-quality, and safe beef we produce here.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Sandhills grasslands and abundant water resources make Nebraska a great place to raise cattle.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the years, our ranchers have made substantial investments to improve how they operate.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We produce the same amount of beef in 2020 as we did in 1970 with one-third less&nbsp;animals.Buck Wehrbein: Beef Month·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A year ago, our cattlemen faced floods and now we’re fighting a virus. &nbsp;It’s been a powerful one-two punch.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite these challenges, our ag producers are committed to producing our premium beef.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We rely on food processors to help our beef reach the tables of our customers. &nbsp;We’re grateful for what they do.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;People are cooking more and eating at home more often right now. &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraskans can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbeefitswhatsfordinner.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574169958&amp;sdata=lx2As8376%2FRJunTDOoE8LDId9JgogdThmFwe3ISbo2Q%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">beefitswhatsfordinner.com</a>&nbsp;to find tips on cooking various cuts of meat as well as great recipes to try.Shelly Schwedhelm: Meatpacking Safety·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I grew up on a dairy farm and currently live on a beef farm.&nbsp; I’ve also studied infectious disease and have been applying this knowledge to agricultural production.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s (UNMC’s) Global Center for Health Security has developed a new playbook for meat processors to prevent COVID-19.&nbsp; You can access it by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unmc.edu%2Fhealthsecurity%2Feducation%2Fprograms%2Fdocs%2FPlaybook.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574179953&amp;sdata=WWEVPGOiGuyeWtNbM5S0cix1qkvlH39jHH75Wph0kZA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ve identified many best practices for meat processors:o&nbsp;&nbsp;Adding physical barriers.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Changing air flows.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Implementing physical distancing strategies for breaks and lunches.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Doing screenings as workers come to the facility.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Providing masks for workers.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our team of infectious disease experts at UNMC has now physically visited 11 plants and virtually toured others. &nbsp;We have additional on-site visits scheduled for next week.Gov. Ricketts: Health and Testing Reminders·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the month of May, we are reminding people to follow our Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home.&nbsp; Do not take unnecessary trips outside the home.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limit.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Socially distance your work. &nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Shop alone and only shop once a week. &nbsp;Do not take family with you.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Help kids follow social distancing. &nbsp;Play at home. &nbsp;No group sports. And no playgrounds.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. &nbsp;Do not visit long-term care facilities.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scheduling for the first two Test Nebraska testing sites in Grand Island and Omaha is occurring now.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We need every Nebraskan to go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftestnebraska.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574349857&amp;sdata=j8XHbsOewdiiIGproldq2AAhZthgAUzs0olOF3PYmWE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;right now to fill out the quick, five-minute assessment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Informational Non-English Videos:o&nbsp;&nbsp;The State has been working hard to reach non-English speaking communities across Nebraska.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, we are launching two videos that have been translated into six languages:§&nbsp;&nbsp;Spanish§&nbsp;&nbsp;Arabic§&nbsp;&nbsp;Karen§&nbsp;&nbsp;Somali§&nbsp;&nbsp;Nepalese§&nbsp;&nbsp;Frencho&nbsp;&nbsp;One video highlights ten ways to stay healthy and keep your family healthy during the pandemic.o&nbsp;&nbsp;The other video provides tips on what to do if you or family members become ill or have been exposed to the virus.o&nbsp;&nbsp;These resources will be available on my YouTube channel. &nbsp;Some videos have already been uploaded and can be viewed by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCcDw3_CGhTVcVtxoGKRkjlQ&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574349857&amp;sdata=uKb8qrUYOBuCG%2BstXjvgLsTjMWGEWxFkuxpJJLuKJYo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. &nbsp;Others will be available soon.o&nbsp;&nbsp;We invite companies, non-profits, community organizations, and others to utilize these resources. &nbsp;We encourage their use on websites across the state as well as on social media platforms.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%2Fd5z0eiu41yvcsud%2FPress%2520Conf%25205.01.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C8029d69bffb84a537c1808d7ee2257b7%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637239703574359852&amp;sdata=XqQttEcuXKbvp9xq6EXiucC15CGcZBuKNRLCXLMjtQI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.