From the National Weather Service<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNWSNorthPlatte%2Fposts%2F3172810949453026&show_text=true&width=552&height=589&appId" width="552" height="589" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Strong winds blow through North Platte area Tuesday

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (WCDHD)-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has two new cases of COVID-19 from Lincoln County. One is a female in her 40s, and the other is a male in his 30s. Both individuals are self-isolating at home.&nbsp;

A woman in her 60s who was hospitalized and suffered serious underlying health conditions has become the second COVID-19 related death in Lincoln County.&nbsp;

“Our sincerest sympathies go out to the family,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD.&nbsp;

To date, we have tested 551 individuals in Lincoln County for novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Of the 551 tested, 22 have been positive. Five are travel-related, six are community spread, nine are due to close contact, and two are under investigation. Sixteen of these cases have recovered, four are self-isolating, and there have been two deaths. All twenty-two cases are within Lincoln County. The DHHS map will reflect these updates soon.&nbsp;

Stay informed of new cases by visiting our website at https://wcdhd.org/ (information will be updated daily 5:45 PM).

Social and physical distancing helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

● Stay home and practice social and physical distancing o Stay Home o Avoid gatherings, if you must gather, keep individuals to 10 or less&nbsp;

● When out stay 6 feet away from others ● Cough and/or sneeze into your elbow&nbsp;

● Wash your hands with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds&nbsp;

● Wear a community mask - this will help mitigate the spread of the virus&nbsp;

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 https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (WCDHD)-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has two new cases of COVID-19 from Lincoln County. One is a female in her 40s, and the other is a male in his 30s. Both individuals are self-isolating at home.&nbsp;A woman in her 60s who was hospitalized and suffered serious underlying health conditions has become the second COVID-19 related death in Lincoln County.&nbsp;“Our sincerest sympathies go out to the family,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD.&nbsp;To date, we have tested 551 individuals in Lincoln County for novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Of the 551 tested, 22 have been positive. Five are travel-related, six are community spread, nine are due to close contact, and two are under investigation. Sixteen of these cases have recovered, four are self-isolating, and there have been two deaths. All twenty-two cases are within Lincoln County. The DHHS map will reflect these updates soon.&nbsp;Stay informed of new cases by visiting our website at https://wcdhd.org/ (information will be updated daily 5:45 PM).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588128545608.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Social and physical distancing helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;This includes:&nbsp;● Stay home and practice social and physical distancing o Stay Home o Avoid gatherings, if you must gather, keep individuals to 10 or less&nbsp;● When out stay 6 feet away from others ● Cough and/or sneeze into your elbow&nbsp;● Wash your hands with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds&nbsp;● Do not touch your face&nbsp;● Wear a community mask - this will help mitigate the spread of the virus&nbsp;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 https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP

WCDHD reports 2nd COVID-19 related death, 2 new cases in Lincoln County

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588125685051.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Current Plans:<ol>
 <li>May 17, 2020:&nbsp; A video tribute to the Class of 2020 will be shared with students, families, and staff.&nbsp; This is&nbsp;to honor Seniors on what was their original Commencement Ceremony date.</li><li>July 25th, 2020:&nbsp; Commencement will take place on this date as long as we are able to follow safety guidelines established at the local, state, and federal levels.</li><li>The location of Commencement is scheduled for the NPHS Athletic Complex.</li><li>If guidelines allow, graduation&nbsp;practice will be held in the days prior to Commencement.&nbsp; Students that plan to participate in Commencement should attend this practice.&nbsp; The specific date and time of practice will be emailed to students and families in early July.&nbsp; This information will also be provided through automated phone calls to families.</li>
 </ol>Contingency Plans:<ol>
 <li>If local, state, and/or federal guidelines (i.e. Centers for Disease Control) do not allow for a single Commencement Ceremony (due to limits on social gatherings, NPHS will look to offer multiple, smaller ceremonies on July 25, 2020.</li><li>If guidelines restrict social gatherings to even lower numbers, NPHS will look to conduct even more ceremonies over the course of July 24, 25, and 26.</li><li>Any limitations on social gatherings may result in Commencement Ceremonies being moved to the NPHS Main Gym.</li><li>If guidelines place restrictions on Commencement Ceremonies, this will be communicated to students and families via email.&nbsp; This information will also be provided through automated phone calls to families.</li>
 </ol>Student Plans:<ol>
 <li>Students that do not wish to participate in commencement, or are unable to participate, may still receive their diplomas, caps, gowns, and other graduation materials at an alternative time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Students that have completed all graduation requirements will have their transcripts finalized once all coursework is complete.&nbsp; Transcripts can then be forwarded to the student's college, employer, etc.&nbsp; Transcripts will show that the student has graduated from NPHS.</li>
 </ol>

North Platte High School Class of 2020 Commencement plans

LINCOLN, Neb.-At his daily press briefing, Governor Pete Ricketts talked about best practices to resume elective surgeries at dental offices and dining in restaurants.&nbsp; Dental facilities with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) can resume operations in Nebraska as of Monday, May 4th.&nbsp; In some regions of Nebraska, restaurants will be able to reopen their dining areas on May 4th&nbsp;as well.

Zoe Olson, Executive Director of the Nebraska Restaurant Association, overviewed the safety precautions restaurants are taking as they prepare to serve guests.&nbsp; Dr. Charles “Fritz” Craft, Director of Dental Health for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS, and Dr. Ken Tusha, past president of the Nebraska Dental Association (NDA, also joined the Governor today.&nbsp; They talked about their industry’s efforts to ensure that the reopening of dental clinics takes place safely and smoothly.

Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska Reminder

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraskans have completed about 100,000 health assessments as of this morning.

·&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%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7Cf7db9c5be57b4b2602b108d7ebc82aa9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237117249155713&amp;sdata=i7MtxTNaQUMT0a9XzqCETpgwI5Gwa979ogPreP%2FX2eg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;right now and to fill out this quick assessment.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We expect scheduling for the first two Test Nebraska testing sites in Grand Island and Omaha to begin soon.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;We need people not just in these cities, but in the surrounding areas, to take the assessment now.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;We will begin contacting folks to schedule testing in the near future.

Gov. Ricketts: New Guidelines for Restaurants

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Last Friday, I announced that we would reopen some of the businesses that temporarily closed on a regional basis.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Directed Health Measures will require the following for dine-in restaurants:

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Seating will be limited to 50% of a restaurant’s maximum occupancy rating.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Each dining party must maintain a minimum of six feet of separation from other dining parties.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Each dining party will be limited to six persons (groups larger than six will need to be seated at separate tables).

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited. &nbsp;Restaurant staff must serve food directly to customers or implement buffet orders from the customer table. No customer self-service is permitted.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Each dining party must be seated at its own table. &nbsp;Bar and counter seating are not permitted.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Patrons may only consume alcohol on the premises if also consuming a meal.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, the State of Nebraska is unveiling new guidance for restaurants. &nbsp;It is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fvkllsqnws2qjpl4%2FCOVID-19%2520Restaurant%2520In-Room%2520Dining%2520Reopening%2520Guidelines.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7Cf7db9c5be57b4b2602b108d7ebc82aa9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237117249155713&amp;sdata=p1Pu9oHN51m2ihzb52w5495UfFIgqBrxJBaPk17TkuA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Among other things, this guidance includes having all restaurant workers wear cloth masks, limiting the number of roles a worker plays, and pre-screening workers to ensure their health.

Zoe Olson: Resuming Dine-In Services at Restaurants

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dining rooms won’t reopen statewide on May 4th.&nbsp; They will reopen on a regional basis.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Together with our members, the National Restaurant Association, and subject matter experts, we’ve developed guidance for restaurants as they reopen their seating areas.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s available at our website: [nebraska-dining.org]nebraska-dining.org.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Nebraska Restaurant Association will be posting the reopening guidelines in restaurants for diners to view.&nbsp; The association will also post the reopening requirements issued by the State of Nebraska.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, we encourage Nebraskans to avoid dining if they have any symptoms of illness.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re doing everything in our power to make restaurants the safest environments possible for customers.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ve been moving tables farther apart, doing extra sanitizing, and implementing other policies to keep everyone healthy.

Dr. Fritz Craft: Resuming Dental Services

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As the dental profession prepares to resume elective surgeries, the DHHS Office of Oral Health, the Nebraska Board of Dentistry, and the Nebraska Dental Association (NDA) have been in constant communication.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ve pooled our resources to review the latest evidence-based information from the American Dental Association, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We want to ensure that our message to the dental community is clear and consistent at this critical time.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We also want to assure the general public that dental services will proceed with safety precautions for patients, dental staff, and providers.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The NDA has been working hard to produce interim guidelines and recommendations for dental offices.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Their final report has been reviewed by DHHS and the Board of Dentistry.&nbsp; It will be a living document with ongoing revisions as more becomes known about COVID-19.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As dental services resume, there will be enhanced patient screening, elevated PPE, higher levels of infection control, and limitations on certain procedures.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The decision to reopen or remain closed is up to each dental practice.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The new guidelines produced by the NDA will assist providers in making this decision.

Dr. Ken Tusha: Resuming Dental Services

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The NDA’s Recommended Office Opening Protocols can be accessed by any member of the public at [nedental.org]nedental.org.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dentistry probably won’t come back on like a light switch.&nbsp; It will be more like a dimmer switch.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re going to slowly open our offices after we’ve trained out whole team in the new protocols.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The new guidelines include training, health screening of teammates, and health screening of patients as they come in.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re taking steps to eliminate person-to-person interactions in waiting rooms.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re also going to have enhanced disinfection and make sure everyone has the proper PPE.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I’m confident we have the guidelines in place to operate safely.

Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/tli0kh7h01qdnk1/Press%20Conf%204.28.2020.mp4?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588125108583.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium) and Nebraska Restaurant Association Executive Director&nbsp;Zoe Olson (far left) at today’s press conference." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium) and Nebraska Restaurant Association Executive Director&nbsp;Zoe Olson (far left) at today’s press conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-At his daily press briefing, Governor Pete Ricketts talked about best practices to resume elective surgeries at dental offices and dining in restaurants.&nbsp; Dental facilities with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) can resume operations in Nebraska as of Monday, May 4th.&nbsp; In some regions of Nebraska, restaurants will be able to reopen their dining areas on May 4th&nbsp;as well.Zoe Olson, Executive Director of the Nebraska Restaurant Association, overviewed the safety precautions restaurants are taking as they prepare to serve guests.&nbsp; Dr. Charles “Fritz” Craft, Director of Dental Health for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS, and Dr. Ken Tusha, past president of the Nebraska Dental Association (NDA, also joined the Governor today.&nbsp; They talked about their industry’s efforts to ensure that the reopening of dental clinics takes place safely and smoothly.Gov. Ricketts: Test Nebraska Reminder·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraskans have completed about 100,000 health assessments as of this morning.·&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%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7Cf7db9c5be57b4b2602b108d7ebc82aa9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237117249155713&amp;sdata=i7MtxTNaQUMT0a9XzqCETpgwI5Gwa979ogPreP%2FX2eg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">TestNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;right now and to fill out this quick assessment.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We expect scheduling for the first two Test Nebraska testing sites in Grand Island and Omaha to begin soon.o&nbsp;&nbsp;We need people not just in these cities, but in the surrounding areas, to take the assessment now.o&nbsp;&nbsp;We will begin contacting folks to schedule testing in the near future.Gov. Ricketts: New Guidelines for Restaurants·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Last Friday, I announced that we would reopen some of the businesses that temporarily closed on a regional basis.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Directed Health Measures will require the following for dine-in restaurants:o&nbsp;&nbsp;Seating will be limited to 50% of a restaurant’s maximum occupancy rating.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Each dining party must maintain a minimum of six feet of separation from other dining parties.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Each dining party will be limited to six persons (groups larger than six will need to be seated at separate tables).o&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited. &nbsp;Restaurant staff must serve food directly to customers or implement buffet orders from the customer table. No customer self-service is permitted.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Each dining party must be seated at its own table. &nbsp;Bar and counter seating are not permitted.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Patrons may only consume alcohol on the premises if also consuming a meal.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, the State of Nebraska is unveiling new guidance for restaurants. &nbsp;It is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fvkllsqnws2qjpl4%2FCOVID-19%2520Restaurant%2520In-Room%2520Dining%2520Reopening%2520Guidelines.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7Cf7db9c5be57b4b2602b108d7ebc82aa9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237117249155713&amp;sdata=p1Pu9oHN51m2ihzb52w5495UfFIgqBrxJBaPk17TkuA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.o&nbsp;&nbsp;Among other things, this guidance includes having all restaurant workers wear cloth masks, limiting the number of roles a worker plays, and pre-screening workers to ensure their health.Zoe Olson: Resuming Dine-In Services at Restaurants·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dining rooms won’t reopen statewide on May 4th.&nbsp; They will reopen on a regional basis.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Together with our members, the National Restaurant Association, and subject matter experts, we’ve developed guidance for restaurants as they reopen their seating areas.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s available at our website: [nebraska-dining.org]nebraska-dining.org.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Nebraska Restaurant Association will be posting the reopening guidelines in restaurants for diners to view.&nbsp; The association will also post the reopening requirements issued by the State of Nebraska.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, we encourage Nebraskans to avoid dining if they have any symptoms of illness.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re doing everything in our power to make restaurants the safest environments possible for customers.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ve been moving tables farther apart, doing extra sanitizing, and implementing other policies to keep everyone healthy.Dr. Fritz Craft: Resuming Dental Services·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As the dental profession prepares to resume elective surgeries, the DHHS Office of Oral Health, the Nebraska Board of Dentistry, and the Nebraska Dental Association (NDA) have been in constant communication.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ve pooled our resources to review the latest evidence-based information from the American Dental Association, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We want to ensure that our message to the dental community is clear and consistent at this critical time.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We also want to assure the general public that dental services will proceed with safety precautions for patients, dental staff, and providers.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The NDA has been working hard to produce interim guidelines and recommendations for dental offices.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Their final report has been reviewed by DHHS and the Board of Dentistry.&nbsp; It will be a living document with ongoing revisions as more becomes known about COVID-19.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As dental services resume, there will be enhanced patient screening, elevated PPE, higher levels of infection control, and limitations on certain procedures.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The decision to reopen or remain closed is up to each dental practice.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The new guidelines produced by the NDA will assist providers in making this decision.Dr. Ken Tusha: Resuming Dental Services·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The NDA’s Recommended Office Opening Protocols can be accessed by any member of the public at [nedental.org]nedental.org.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dentistry probably won’t come back on like a light switch.&nbsp; It will be more like a dimmer switch.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re going to slowly open our offices after we’ve trained out whole team in the new protocols.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The new guidelines include training, health screening of teammates, and health screening of patients as they come in.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re taking steps to eliminate person-to-person interactions in waiting rooms.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We’re also going to have enhanced disinfection and make sure everyone has the proper PPE.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I’m confident we have the guidelines in place to operate safely.Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/tli0kh7h01qdnk1/Press%20Conf%204.28.2020.mp4?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts hosts dental, restaurant leaders to discuss resumption of elective surgeries and dine-in services

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

Gathering with others is not encouraged during this pandemic, but one segment of western Nebraska’s population has been going at it in full swing. Don’t worry -- we're just talking about the grassland-loving prairie grouse and their annual spring mating ritual on grounds known as leks.

Those who have seen and heard the spectacular booming of prairie chickens and dancing of sharp-tailed grouse know the birds like to perform on a site with short to no vegetation.

Despite that, they certainly prefer to have taller cover available nearby – not only to hide and escape from predators throughout the year, but also during the critical task of nesting and brooding their young.

Greg Schenbeck of Chadron, a retired wildlife biologist for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, is passionate about prairie grouse and their habitats.

In the late 1980s and early ‘90s he was involved in a project to monitor nesting sharp-tailed grouse. The research, which he and former coworker Bill Vodehnal of Bassett recently incorporated to a soon-to-be published scientific article, demonstrates the importance of managing land with the many uses of prairie birds in mind. Residual cover – the plants left standing from the previous year – are of vital importance.

“It takes management of the residual cover, as well as range management with the current year’s vegetation,” he said. “Residual cover takes you up through egg laying. Management of the current year’s vegetation takes you through brooding season.”

He said the eggs are especially vulnerable between when hens lay them to the beginning of incubation in the first weeks of May.

“They lay a full clutch before the hens begin incubating so those eggs are exposed to the elements when the hen is off the nest during the egg-laying process,” he said. “And, it’s that residual cover from the year before that’s providing the concealment and protection for those eggs.”

The vegetation not only provides concealment for the eggs, but also provides shade and shelters them from the sun and harsh weather. The soil of the Sandhills is especially prone to soaking up the sunshine and getting warmer than what the eggs and recently hatched broods can tolerate.

“There’s a thermal range that they can take and still be viable and still hatch,” he said.Researchers from the University of Nebraska have been conducting a study on this aspect of sharp-tailed grouse nesting ecology in the Sandhills, Schenbeck said. Such research aids in developing management practices on public lands, and helps guide interested private landowners.

“What we’ve learned is with grouse management, with either chickens or sharptails in the Sandhills, in management with those species is we’re always a year behind,” he said. “It’s how we managed our grass last year that sets the stage for the current year’s nesting season.”

Especially in the Sandhills, Schenbeck said more ranchers are seeing the benefits of diverse grassland structure – also known as structural heterogeneity. He said along with livestock production, the landowners want to enhance wildlife-related recreation with upland bird hunting in the fall or prairie grouse viewing in the spring. In order to do so, there are many factors to consider with activities such as grazing and prescribed burns.

Landowners seeking more information about how you can help Nebraska’s grouse and other prairie-nesting birds can contact a nearby Game and Parks Commission wildlife biologist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588124113963.png" alt="A sharp-tailed grouse dances on a lek. (Nebraskaland/Justin Haag)" />
 <figcaption>A sharp-tailed grouse dances on a lek. (Nebraskaland/Justin Haag)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;This article was produced as part of Justin Haag's Panhandle Afield blog and podcast, available at&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalandmagazine.com/" target="_blank">nebraskalandmagazine.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gathering with others is not encouraged during this pandemic, but one segment of western Nebraska’s population has been going at it in full swing. Don’t worry -- we're just talking about the grassland-loving prairie grouse and their annual spring mating ritual on grounds known as leks.Those who have seen and heard the spectacular booming of prairie chickens and dancing of sharp-tailed grouse know the birds like to perform on a site with short to no vegetation.Despite that, they certainly prefer to have taller cover available nearby – not only to hide and escape from predators throughout the year, but also during the critical task of nesting and brooding their young.Greg Schenbeck of Chadron, a retired wildlife biologist for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, is passionate about prairie grouse and their habitats.In the late 1980s and early ‘90s he was involved in a project to monitor nesting sharp-tailed grouse. The research, which he and former coworker Bill Vodehnal of Bassett recently incorporated to a soon-to-be published scientific article, demonstrates the importance of managing land with the many uses of prairie birds in mind. Residual cover – the plants left standing from the previous year – are of vital importance.“It takes management of the residual cover, as well as range management with the current year’s vegetation,” he said. “Residual cover takes you up through egg laying. Management of the current year’s vegetation takes you through brooding season.”He said the eggs are especially vulnerable between when hens lay them to the beginning of incubation in the first weeks of May.“They lay a full clutch before the hens begin incubating so those eggs are exposed to the elements when the hen is off the nest during the egg-laying process,” he said. “And, it’s that residual cover from the year before that’s providing the concealment and protection for those eggs.”The vegetation not only provides concealment for the eggs, but also provides shade and shelters them from the sun and harsh weather. The soil of the Sandhills is especially prone to soaking up the sunshine and getting warmer than what the eggs and recently hatched broods can tolerate.“There’s a thermal range that they can take and still be viable and still hatch,” he said.Researchers from the University of Nebraska have been conducting a study on this aspect of sharp-tailed grouse nesting ecology in the Sandhills, Schenbeck said. Such research aids in developing management practices on public lands, and helps guide interested private landowners.“What we’ve learned is with grouse management, with either chickens or sharptails in the Sandhills, in management with those species is we’re always a year behind,” he said. “It’s how we managed our grass last year that sets the stage for the current year’s nesting season.”Especially in the Sandhills, Schenbeck said more ranchers are seeing the benefits of diverse grassland structure – also known as structural heterogeneity. He said along with livestock production, the landowners want to enhance wildlife-related recreation with upland bird hunting in the fall or prairie grouse viewing in the spring. In order to do so, there are many factors to consider with activities such as grazing and prescribed burns.Landowners seeking more information about how you can help Nebraska’s grouse and other prairie-nesting birds can contact a nearby Game and Parks Commission wildlife biologist.

Prairie grouse use variety of vegetation

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts promised Tuesday to boost his coronavirus outreach efforts to the town of Crete, the state's newest coronavirus hot spot where cases have surged and local meatpacking workers staged a brief, impromptu walkout out of fear for their own safety.

About 50 workers at the Smithfield Foods pork plant walked off the job after company officials announced that the facility would remain open, just hours after they had said it would close to contain an outbreak.

The walkout wasn't union-sanctioned, and the workers eventually went back into the plant to discuss their concerns with managers. But a local union representative said it highlights the stress many workers are feeling as they work "elbow to elbow, shoulder to shoulder" cutting and packaging meat.

"They're scared," said Eric Reeder, president of the United Food &amp; Commercial Workers Local 293, which represents meatpacking throughout the state. "They want the company to be more transparent."

Reeder said employees are worried that they'll catch the virus from a co-worker and bring it home to their families, and they were caught off-guard by Smithfield's sudden about-face.

He said company officials have taken steps to address some of their concerns, including reduced work hours while still providing a full day's wages. Company officials have also put up barriers on the processing line and in the plant's cafeteria, he said.

Reeder said he also was concerned about President Trump's order to keep the nation's meatpacking plants open, even though the federal coronavirus safety recommendations are voluntary. He said it could create a perverse incentive for plants to skimp on safety if they're under pressure to keep running.

"All you're doing is opening the door for abuse," he said.

Ricketts said company executives contacted his staff Monday morning to notify him that they planned to temporarily shutter the facility, but then called back later that day to say they would remain open.

A voicemail left for a Smithfield spokeswoman wasn't immediately returned, but company officials have previously said they're taking extra safety precautions and consulting with public-health officials for guidance. Smithfield has closed plants in Illinois, Missouri and Wisconsin because of the virus.

Ricketts, in his weekday coronavirus news briefing, reiterated Tuesday that he won't ask any plants to close.

"As I've said before, we really need to make sure that our food supply chain is stable so that people can go to the grocery store and be able to buy those meat products," he said. "This is important, mission-critical stuff we've got to keep open."

About 2,000 people work at the plant and at least 48 have tested positive for the coronavirus. Crete is a town of about 7,000, located 25 miles southwest of Lincoln.

Crete is Nebraska's latest meatpacking town to see a spike in confirmed virus cases, following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/32570bd42a11adb89f82b0f3b7cee072" target="_blank">Grand Island</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4ea10fab5b061ca86dc23c070ede654c" target="_blank">Dakota City,</a>&nbsp;which have both seen have seen outbreaks larger than the one in Omaha despite having far fewer residents.

Ricketts pledged Tuesday to bring more testing and community-tracing to Crete, with a focus on workers who are often non-English speaking immigrants.

Nebraska is continuing to see a surge in coronavirus infections, including new confirmed cases in two counties, according to public health data released Monday.

Nebraska reported 330 new cases, bringing the total to nearly 3,400, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, Cedar and Valley counties confirmed their first cases.

Nebraska has seen 55 virus-related deaths so far, according to the department. State officials previously announced 56 deaths, but later in the day they said one of those deaths was an erroneous entry into the state's database.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms 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 and death.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts promised Tuesday to boost his coronavirus outreach efforts to the town of Crete, the state's newest coronavirus hot spot where cases have surged and local meatpacking workers staged a brief, impromptu walkout out of fear for their own safety.About 50 workers at the Smithfield Foods pork plant walked off the job after company officials announced that the facility would remain open, just hours after they had said it would close to contain an outbreak.The walkout wasn't union-sanctioned, and the workers eventually went back into the plant to discuss their concerns with managers. But a local union representative said it highlights the stress many workers are feeling as they work "elbow to elbow, shoulder to shoulder" cutting and packaging meat."They're scared," said Eric Reeder, president of the United Food &amp; Commercial Workers Local 293, which represents meatpacking throughout the state. "They want the company to be more transparent."Reeder said employees are worried that they'll catch the virus from a co-worker and bring it home to their families, and they were caught off-guard by Smithfield's sudden about-face.He said company officials have taken steps to address some of their concerns, including reduced work hours while still providing a full day's wages. Company officials have also put up barriers on the processing line and in the plant's cafeteria, he said.Reeder said he also was concerned about President Trump's order to keep the nation's meatpacking plants open, even though the federal coronavirus safety recommendations are voluntary. He said it could create a perverse incentive for plants to skimp on safety if they're under pressure to keep running."All you're doing is opening the door for abuse," he said.Ricketts said company executives contacted his staff Monday morning to notify him that they planned to temporarily shutter the facility, but then called back later that day to say they would remain open.A voicemail left for a Smithfield spokeswoman wasn't immediately returned, but company officials have previously said they're taking extra safety precautions and consulting with public-health officials for guidance. Smithfield has closed plants in Illinois, Missouri and Wisconsin because of the virus.Ricketts, in his weekday coronavirus news briefing, reiterated Tuesday that he won't ask any plants to close."As I've said before, we really need to make sure that our food supply chain is stable so that people can go to the grocery store and be able to buy those meat products," he said. "This is important, mission-critical stuff we've got to keep open."About 2,000 people work at the plant and at least 48 have tested positive for the coronavirus. Crete is a town of about 7,000, located 25 miles southwest of Lincoln.Crete is Nebraska's latest meatpacking town to see a spike in confirmed virus cases, following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/32570bd42a11adb89f82b0f3b7cee072" target="_blank">Grand Island</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4ea10fab5b061ca86dc23c070ede654c" target="_blank">Dakota City,</a>&nbsp;which have both seen have seen outbreaks larger than the one in Omaha despite having far fewer residents.Ricketts pledged Tuesday to bring more testing and community-tracing to Crete, with a focus on workers who are often non-English speaking immigrants.Nebraska is continuing to see a surge in coronavirus infections, including new confirmed cases in two counties, according to public health data released Monday.Nebraska reported 330 new cases, bringing the total to nearly 3,400, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, Cedar and Valley counties confirmed their first cases.Nebraska has seen 55 virus-related deaths so far, according to the department. State officials previously announced 56 deaths, but later in the day they said one of those deaths was an erroneous entry into the state's database.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms 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 and death.

Fearing virus, Nebraska meatpacking workers briefly walk out

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska women's gymnastics program has been given two years of probation and fined for breaking NCAA rules under former head coach Dan Kendig.

The Division I Committee on Infractions announced Tuesday that the program exceeded the number of allowable coaches when Kendig and members of the program arranged for a former volunteer assistant coach to receive impermissible compensation from 2014-18.

Kendig announced his retirement in October 2018, with athletic director Bill Moos saying the coach's decision came amid concerns about compliance issues. Kendig coached the Cornhuskers for 25 seasons and led them to 14 conference titles and 12 NCAA Super Six Finals.

The unnamed volunteer coach had served as an outside consultant beginning in 2011 and developed floor exercise choreography and music. While acting as an outside consultant, it was permissible for the gymnasts to pay him for his services.

The consultant, at Kendig's request, took a position as volunteer assistant in 2014 so he could have an expanded role with the team. The violations occurred when the volunteer received $300 per year from each gymnast for floor exercise choreography and an undisclosed amount from the university for floor exercise music. NCAA rules forbid volunteer assistants from being paid.

According to the case resolution agreement between the NCAA and the school, Kendig coordinated with the volunteer to submit invoices for floor exercise music from a fictitious company, Fantasy Floor Music. The invoices requested the check be made payable to an associate of the volunteer coach so the university would not detect the impermissible payments.

Because of his personal involvement in the violations, Kendig agreed he did not promote an atmosphere of compliance.

In addition to the program being on probation through April 2022, Nebraska must pay a fine of $5,000 plus 1% of the women's gymnastics budget.

Kendig and the former volunteer assistant also face restrictions if they are employed by other NCAA schools.

The program already served a self-imposed penalty, reducing its coaching staff by one member for 2018-19.

Nebraska Athletics said in a statement: "We appreciate the cooperation and dialogue we have had with the NCAA during this process. Our focus now is on the future of our women's gymnastics program under the direction of Head Coach Heather Brink."

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska women's gymnastics program has been given two years of probation and fined for breaking NCAA rules under former head coach Dan Kendig.The Division I Committee on Infractions announced Tuesday that the program exceeded the number of allowable coaches when Kendig and members of the program arranged for a former volunteer assistant coach to receive impermissible compensation from 2014-18.Kendig announced his retirement in October 2018, with athletic director Bill Moos saying the coach's decision came amid concerns about compliance issues. Kendig coached the Cornhuskers for 25 seasons and led them to 14 conference titles and 12 NCAA Super Six Finals.The unnamed volunteer coach had served as an outside consultant beginning in 2011 and developed floor exercise choreography and music. While acting as an outside consultant, it was permissible for the gymnasts to pay him for his services.The consultant, at Kendig's request, took a position as volunteer assistant in 2014 so he could have an expanded role with the team. The violations occurred when the volunteer received $300 per year from each gymnast for floor exercise choreography and an undisclosed amount from the university for floor exercise music. NCAA rules forbid volunteer assistants from being paid.According to the case resolution agreement between the NCAA and the school, Kendig coordinated with the volunteer to submit invoices for floor exercise music from a fictitious company, Fantasy Floor Music. The invoices requested the check be made payable to an associate of the volunteer coach so the university would not detect the impermissible payments.Because of his personal involvement in the violations, Kendig agreed he did not promote an atmosphere of compliance.In addition to the program being on probation through April 2022, Nebraska must pay a fine of $5,000 plus 1% of the women's gymnastics budget.Kendig and the former volunteer assistant also face restrictions if they are employed by other NCAA schools.The program already served a self-imposed penalty, reducing its coaching staff by one member for 2018-19.Nebraska Athletics said in a statement: "We appreciate the cooperation and dialogue we have had with the NCAA during this process. Our focus now is on the future of our women's gymnastics program under the direction of Head Coach Heather Brink."

Violations bring probation for Nebraska women's gymnastics

Things were so much clearer when just about everything was locked down.

Now, with states lifting coronavirus restrictions piecemeal and by often arbitrary timetables, Americans are facing bewildering decisions about what they should and should not do to protect their health, their livelihoods and their neighbors.

Is it safe to join the crowds at the beach or eat at a restaurant? To visit the elderly parents you haven't seen in nearly two months? To reopen a struggling business?

In many cases, the less-than-satisfying answer from the experts is: It depends.

"There will never be a perfect amount of protection," said Josh Santarpia, a microbiology expert at the University of Nebraska Medical Center who is studying the coronavirus. "It's a personal risk assessment. Everybody has to decide, person by person, what risk they're willing to tolerate."

The quandary comes as the confirmed death toll from coronavirus in the U.S. on Tuesday surpassed the 58,220 American service members killed in Vietnam, according to Johns Hopkins University. Globally, at least 216,000 have died, thought the true toll is undoubtedly much higher because of limited testing, differences in counting the dead and concealment by some governments.

With the crisis easing in many places, France, Spain and Greece were among the latest countries to announce their plans for restarting their economies. As governments make their moves to reopen businesses and schools, the next decisions made will be personal.

Jill Faust, 53, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, said she would hesitate to eat at an indoor restaurant when such businesses are allowed to reopen in her community Friday.

"We would have to know ahead of time what precautions they're taking," she said, citing the way some restaurants may rely on limited seating, well-spaced tables, masks for employees and disposable cups and plates. Even then, she said, it might not be worth the trouble.

"Going to a restaurant to me is this lovely, relaxing experience where you can sit with people and relax and catch up after a long day. If your experience is going to be limited by all these safety concerns, why spend the money?" she said.

In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom said schoolchildren could return to classrooms as early as July, though a formal decision had not yet been made.

President Donald Trump signed a measure ordering meat processing plants to stay open to prevent shortages. Unions responded by accusing the White House of jeopardizing lives and prioritizing cold cuts over workers' health.

As restrictions loosen, health authorities will be watching closely for any sign of a resurgence of the virus.

On Tuesday, for example, Germany reported an uptick in the infection rate since some small businesses were allowed to reopen just over a week ago. But it was too soon to say whether the loosening was to blame.

Around the world, confirmed infections exceeded 3 million - including 1 million in the U.S., according to the Johns Hopkins tally.

In China, where the pandemic began, cases have slowed to a trickle from the peak in February and March that even forced a delay in the country's ceremonial parliament meeting. State media reported Wednesday the National People's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a024a0e210daab287f83897edf10082b" target="_blank">Congress&nbsp;</a>would convene on May 22.

In the U.S., the uncertainty ahead was spotlighted in Georgia after businesses such as barber shops and tattoo parlors were given the go-ahead to reopen.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said people could find the changes perplexing.

"In reality we're under a stay-at-home order until April 30," Johnson said. "Yet you can go get your nails done, you can go get a tattoo, you can go to movie theaters, you can go to bowling alleys. It's those kinds of things that leave people confused."

Mixed messages are coming from even the U.S. Congress. The House is scrambling for ways for members to work from home after a revolt over convening during the pandemic, and said they wouldn't return to the Capitol on Monday. The smaller Senate, however, plans to convene there.

The decisions people make are likely to vary widely depending on where they live, and how close that puts them to known virus clusters. In Georgia, where COVID-19 has killed at least 1,000, many new cases are still being reported.

But even in places with fewer known infections, people are facing uneasy choices.

In Omaha, Nebraska, where businesses can reopen next week, teachers Michelle and Mark Aschenbrenner said they are eager to dine out again. Mark Aschenbrenner has set up an appointment for a long-delayed haircut.

"I think we're four weeks too early," he said of the plans to lift restrictions. But "I think I'll probably still go because we've been stuck at home for seven weeks and we're going stir crazy."

With warmer weather enticing more people to venture out in the weeks ahead, it will be up to individuals to exercise caution.

"You can't swear that if somebody happens to cough on the beach chair to your left and then you have a breeze that blows that over across you, that you don't have the exposure in that way," said Dr. Marybeth Sexton, infectious-disease specialist at Emory University School of Medicine.

Even following guidelines to maintain 6-foot (2-meter) distances may not be enough. That rule is based on how far a different coronavirus, SARS, spread among airline passengers.

When doctors treated more than a dozen COVID-19 patients at an Omaha hospital, researchers found genetic material from the virus at greater distances - on window ledges, cellphones, in hallways and on toilet seats, Santarpia said.

That doesn't mean people shouldn't go out. But they should be very deliberate in doing so, limiting visits with relatives and friends to moments that matter, said Dr. Emily Landon, who leads infection control at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Mother's Day - May 10 in the United States - may qualify if Mom lives nearby, she said. But limit the number of people involved and wear masks the entire time. Even if you check to make sure everyone present has been feeling well, accept that there will be risk, she said.

The virus remains a long-term foe. The president of the Japan Medical Association, Yoshitake Yokokura, said he thinks it will be difficult to hold the rescheduled Tokyo Summer Olympics even in 2021 without an effective vaccine.

In the shorter term, it will be up to individuals as much as policymakers to make the decisions that will help chart the virus' course.

"I think everyone still needs to use their judgment. I'm not having a book club in my house. I'm going to my doctor for an allergy shot because that's safe to do," said Landon, the Chicago infection-control expert. "You can try and make it political, make it about freedom, but it's a virus. It's biology. Biology doesn't negotiate."

By CARLA K. JOHNSON-Associated PressThings were so much clearer when just about everything was locked down.Now, with states lifting coronavirus restrictions piecemeal and by often arbitrary timetables, Americans are facing bewildering decisions about what they should and should not do to protect their health, their livelihoods and their neighbors.Is it safe to join the crowds at the beach or eat at a restaurant? To visit the elderly parents you haven't seen in nearly two months? To reopen a struggling business?In many cases, the less-than-satisfying answer from the experts is: It depends."There will never be a perfect amount of protection," said Josh Santarpia, a microbiology expert at the University of Nebraska Medical Center who is studying the coronavirus. "It's a personal risk assessment. Everybody has to decide, person by person, what risk they're willing to tolerate."The quandary comes as the confirmed death toll from coronavirus in the U.S. on Tuesday surpassed the 58,220 American service members killed in Vietnam, according to Johns Hopkins University. Globally, at least 216,000 have died, thought the true toll is undoubtedly much higher because of limited testing, differences in counting the dead and concealment by some governments.With the crisis easing in many places, France, Spain and Greece were among the latest countries to announce their plans for restarting their economies. As governments make their moves to reopen businesses and schools, the next decisions made will be personal.Jill Faust, 53, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, said she would hesitate to eat at an indoor restaurant when such businesses are allowed to reopen in her community Friday."We would have to know ahead of time what precautions they're taking," she said, citing the way some restaurants may rely on limited seating, well-spaced tables, masks for employees and disposable cups and plates. Even then, she said, it might not be worth the trouble."Going to a restaurant to me is this lovely, relaxing experience where you can sit with people and relax and catch up after a long day. If your experience is going to be limited by all these safety concerns, why spend the money?" she said.In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom said schoolchildren could return to classrooms as early as July, though a formal decision had not yet been made.President Donald Trump signed a measure ordering meat processing plants to stay open to prevent shortages. Unions responded by accusing the White House of jeopardizing lives and prioritizing cold cuts over workers' health.As restrictions loosen, health authorities will be watching closely for any sign of a resurgence of the virus.On Tuesday, for example, Germany reported an uptick in the infection rate since some small businesses were allowed to reopen just over a week ago. But it was too soon to say whether the loosening was to blame.Around the world, confirmed infections exceeded 3 million - including 1 million in the U.S., according to the Johns Hopkins tally.In China, where the pandemic began, cases have slowed to a trickle from the peak in February and March that even forced a delay in the country's ceremonial parliament meeting. State media reported Wednesday the National People's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a024a0e210daab287f83897edf10082b" target="_blank">Congress&nbsp;</a>would convene on May 22.In the U.S., the uncertainty ahead was spotlighted in Georgia after businesses such as barber shops and tattoo parlors were given the go-ahead to reopen.Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said people could find the changes perplexing."In reality we're under a stay-at-home order until April 30," Johnson said. "Yet you can go get your nails done, you can go get a tattoo, you can go to movie theaters, you can go to bowling alleys. It's those kinds of things that leave people confused."Mixed messages are coming from even the U.S. Congress. The House is scrambling for ways for members to work from home after a revolt over convening during the pandemic, and said they wouldn't return to the Capitol on Monday. The smaller Senate, however, plans to convene there.The decisions people make are likely to vary widely depending on where they live, and how close that puts them to known virus clusters. In Georgia, where COVID-19 has killed at least 1,000, many new cases are still being reported.But even in places with fewer known infections, people are facing uneasy choices.In Omaha, Nebraska, where businesses can reopen next week, teachers Michelle and Mark Aschenbrenner said they are eager to dine out again. Mark Aschenbrenner has set up an appointment for a long-delayed haircut."I think we're four weeks too early," he said of the plans to lift restrictions. But "I think I'll probably still go because we've been stuck at home for seven weeks and we're going stir crazy."With warmer weather enticing more people to venture out in the weeks ahead, it will be up to individuals to exercise caution."You can't swear that if somebody happens to cough on the beach chair to your left and then you have a breeze that blows that over across you, that you don't have the exposure in that way," said Dr. Marybeth Sexton, infectious-disease specialist at Emory University School of Medicine.Even following guidelines to maintain 6-foot (2-meter) distances may not be enough. That rule is based on how far a different coronavirus, SARS, spread among airline passengers.When doctors treated more than a dozen COVID-19 patients at an Omaha hospital, researchers found genetic material from the virus at greater distances - on window ledges, cellphones, in hallways and on toilet seats, Santarpia said.That doesn't mean people shouldn't go out. But they should be very deliberate in doing so, limiting visits with relatives and friends to moments that matter, said Dr. Emily Landon, who leads infection control at the University of Chicago Medical Center.Mother's Day - May 10 in the United States - may qualify if Mom lives nearby, she said. But limit the number of people involved and wear masks the entire time. Even if you check to make sure everyone present has been feeling well, accept that there will be risk, she said.The virus remains a long-term foe. The president of the Japan Medical Association, Yoshitake Yokokura, said he thinks it will be difficult to hold the rescheduled Tokyo Summer Olympics even in 2021 without an effective vaccine.In the shorter term, it will be up to individuals as much as policymakers to make the decisions that will help chart the virus' course."I think everyone still needs to use their judgment. I'm not having a book club in my house. I'm going to my doctor for an allergy shot because that's safe to do," said Landon, the Chicago infection-control expert. "You can try and make it political, make it about freedom, but it's a virus. It's biology. Biology doesn't negotiate."

Easing lockdowns makes day-to-day choices more complicated

Governor Ricketts joined the update today...

Governor Ricketts joined the update today...<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F537908686883289%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥Public Health Command Center Update (April 28, 2020)

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The confusion mounts as the state of Nebraska begins to "reopen."

Earlier today, the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation drafted a letter to Governor Pete Ricketts, asking him to allow Lincoln County and North Platte to open earlier in May like other areas of the state that were under Directed Health Measures by the Governor.

The letter was drafted after it seemed that, unlike many other areas of the state, Lincoln County and North Platte would be forced to wait until the end of May to begin restoring the economy and reopening businesses that have been closed for over a month.

At his daily update on Tuesday, Governor Ricketts responded to the question about when North Platte and Lincoln County would open by saying that our area was slated to open on May 11 and he, "didn't know where the May 31st date came from."

However, during an update from the Public Health Command Center in North Platte on Monday, Executive Director of the West Central District Health Department Shannon Vanderheiden stated that salons, tattoo parlors and massage parlors could not open until May 31st. This turned out to be a miscommunication due to a draft email. Governor Ricketts says WCDHD is not to blame.

A Facebook post by the North Platte Chamber says:

"We received a call from the Governor's office following today's 2 pm press conference and the North Platte area will be on the May 11th directed health measure list."

The Post is awaiting comment from the Governor and the Public Health Command Center in North Platte will hold an online update on their Facebook page at 4:30 pm.

The Post will be speaking with North Platte Chamber CEO and President Gary Person on our Post Podcast tomorrow morning.

Public Health Command Center update April 28, 2020 with Governor Ricketts:

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The confusion mounts as the state of Nebraska begins to "reopen."Earlier today, the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation drafted a letter to Governor Pete Ricketts, asking him to allow Lincoln County and North Platte to open earlier in May like other areas of the state that were under Directed Health Measures by the Governor.The letter was drafted after it seemed that, unlike many other areas of the state, Lincoln County and North Platte would be forced to wait until the end of May to begin restoring the economy and reopening businesses that have been closed for over a month.At his daily update on Tuesday, Governor Ricketts responded to the question about when North Platte and Lincoln County would open by saying that our area was slated to open on May 11 and he, "didn't know where the May 31st date came from."However, during an update from the Public Health Command Center in North Platte on Monday, Executive Director of the West Central District Health Department Shannon Vanderheiden stated that salons, tattoo parlors and massage parlors could not open until May 31st. This turned out to be a miscommunication due to a draft email. Governor Ricketts says WCDHD is not to blame.A Facebook post by the North Platte Chamber says:"We received a call from the Governor's office following today's 2 pm press conference and the North Platte area will be on the May 11th directed health measure list."The Post is awaiting comment from the Governor and the Public Health Command Center in North Platte will hold an online update on their Facebook page at 4:30 pm.The Post will be speaking with North Platte Chamber CEO and President Gary Person on our Post Podcast tomorrow morning.Public Health Command Center update April 28, 2020 with Governor Ricketts:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F537908686883289%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Here's the letter from the Chamber:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588091148801.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NP Chamber: Governor says North Platte area will be on May 11th directed health measure list

North Platte Chamber asks Gov. Ricketts to let Lincoln County reopen, reconsider extended DHM

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is continuing to see a surge in coronavirus infections, including new confirmed cases in two counties, according to public health data released Monday.

Gov. Pete Ricketts defended his decision Monday to ease social-distancing restrictions in some parts of Nebraska, even though the number of confirmed coronavirus cases has surged in the last few days.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is continuing to see a surge in coronavirus infections, including new confirmed cases in two counties, according to public health data released Monday.Nebraska reported 330 new cases, bringing the total to nearly 3,400, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, Cedar and Valley counties confirmed their first cases.Nebraska has seen 55 virus-related deaths so far, according to the department. State officials previously announced 56 deaths, but later in the day they said one of those deaths was an erroneous entry into the state's database.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms 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 and death.Gov. Pete Ricketts defended his decision Monday to ease social-distancing restrictions in some parts of Nebraska, even though the number of confirmed coronavirus cases has surged in the last few days.

Nebraska sees continued surge in new coronavirus cases

APRIL 28, 2020 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) will distribute 100,000 surgical masks to truck drivers over the next two days at several locations.

The masks were provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Homeland Security as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. NSP is working with the Nebraska Trucking Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, and the U.S. Postal Service on the distribution efforts. Nebraska is one of eight states working with federal agencies as part of this program.

“Our partners in the trucking industry have done heroic work over the last several weeks to keep American’s grocery store shelves stocked and transport critical supplies all over the country to help in the fight against COVID-19,” said Captain Gerry Krolikowski, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to be part of this effort to keep those drivers safe.”

The masks will be distributed at eight locations on Wednesday, April 29, and nine locations on Thursday, April 30. Those locations are:

Times for distribution vary by location. For a complete list of distribution times at each mask distribution location, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/troopers-distribute-100000-masks-truck-drivers" target="_blank">this page on the NSP website.</a>

APRIL 28, 2020 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) will distribute 100,000 surgical masks to truck drivers over the next two days at several locations.The masks were provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Homeland Security as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. NSP is working with the Nebraska Trucking Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, and the U.S. Postal Service on the distribution efforts. Nebraska is one of eight states working with federal agencies as part of this program.“Our partners in the trucking industry have done heroic work over the last several weeks to keep American’s grocery store shelves stocked and transport critical supplies all over the country to help in the fight against COVID-19,” said Captain Gerry Krolikowski, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to be part of this effort to keep those drivers safe.”The masks will be distributed at eight locations on Wednesday, April 29, and nine locations on Thursday, April 30. Those locations are:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588089698249.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Times for distribution vary by location. For a complete list of distribution times at each mask distribution location, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/troopers-distribute-100000-masks-truck-drivers" target="_blank">this page on the NSP website.</a>

NSP troopers to distribute 100,000 surgical masks to truckers

North Platte High School Senior discussed his perspective on life during and after the pandemic with NPPSD Superintendent Dr. Ron Hansen and NPPSD Director of Communications Tina Smith

North Platte High School Senior discussed his perspective on life during and after the pandemic with NPPSD Superintendent Dr. Ron Hansen and NPPSD Director of Communications Tina Smith<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SRJLLYKPic8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥 NPHS Senior discusses perspective on life during, after pandemic

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The city of North Platte will have polling locations at two sites: D &amp; N Event Center – if you reside south of the railroad tracks and Berean Church located at 202 West 8th Street – if you reside north of the railroad tracks as well as voters from Hall Precinct.

Rural precincts outside the City of North Platte will remain the same. 

Officials are still in need of local poll workers from the Brady Precinct, Medicine (Wellfleet) Precinct and Wallace Precinct to work the polls on Election Day.

News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The city of North Platte will have polling locations at two sites: D &amp; N Event Center – if you reside south of the railroad tracks and Berean Church located at 202 West 8th Street – if you reside north of the railroad tracks as well as voters from Hall Precinct.Rural precincts outside the City of North Platte will remain the same. Officials are still in need of local poll workers from the Brady Precinct, Medicine (Wellfleet) Precinct and Wallace Precinct to work the polls on Election Day.

City of North Platte announces changes to polling locations

OMAHA-When it comes to homemade masks, the type of fabric you choose matters. Some materials prevent more infectious particles than others. No matter which fabric you choose, it's better to use more than one layer by doubling up on the fabric. Find out how to create, wear and clean face masks by following&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html" target="_blank">these CDC guidelines</a>.

Moisture from breathing into the mask surface can make it a more hospitable environment for germs, including potentially the coronavirus, to settle into the mask material.&nbsp;Be sure to wash your mask after each use. A washing machine with standard laundry detergent works great.&nbsp;

Remember,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/fabric-masks-useful-but-not-a-cure-all">your mask could infect you</a>. During "donning and doffing" (putting on and taking off) the mask, there's a danger of self-contamination. Unless you put on and take off the mask safely, your mask could infect you with the coronavirus. You could also contaminate your face or hands if you adjust your cloth (or any) mask.

Watch our brief video to see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-5RYKLYvaw" target="_blank">how to properly don and doff a face mask</a>.

News Release Nebraska MedicineOMAHA-When it comes to homemade masks, the type of fabric you choose matters. Some materials prevent more infectious particles than others. No matter which fabric you choose, it's better to use more than one layer by doubling up on the fabric. Find out how to create, wear and clean face masks by following&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html" target="_blank">these CDC guidelines</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://www.nebraskamed.com/sites/default/files/documents/covid-19/fabric-infographic-blog%20(1).jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Wash your mask after every use</h2>Moisture from breathing into the mask surface can make it a more hospitable environment for germs, including potentially the coronavirus, to settle into the mask material.&nbsp;Be sure to wash your mask after each use. A washing machine with standard laundry detergent works great.&nbsp;<h2>Avoid self-contamination</h2>Remember,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/fabric-masks-useful-but-not-a-cure-all">your mask could infect you</a>. During "donning and doffing" (putting on and taking off) the mask, there's a danger of self-contamination. Unless you put on and take off the mask safely, your mask could infect you with the coronavirus. You could also contaminate your face or hands if you adjust your cloth (or any) mask.Watch our brief video to see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-5RYKLYvaw" target="_blank">how to properly don and doff a face mask</a>.

The best mask materials according to scientists 

BASKING RIDGE, N.J.&nbsp;–&nbsp;During this unprecedented period challenging the world’s health and economy, Verizon stands ready to support our employees and serve our customers and public safety.

Verizon’s networks have been engineered to perform during moments of crisis and disaster such as hurricanes, snow storms and flooding. During this time of heightened worry and concern, our primary goal is to keep our customers, employees and society connected to the things that matter most to them: their family, friends and business customers.

Verizon is closely monitoring network usage in the most impacted areas. We will work with and prioritize network demand in assisting many U.S. hospitals, first responders and government agencies, as needed.

We are providing daily updates to our employees and our consumer and business customers on our network performance, offering help and support for their connectivity needs, tips on how to work in this new environment and more. We encourage you to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/speed-uts-live?bid=empcomms" target="_blank">check here</a>&nbsp;every day at noon ET, for the latest updates.

<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizon-help-customers-and-small-businesses">Verizon is extending its commitment to keep our customers connected through June 30.&nbsp;</a>This means we will neither terminate service nor charge late fees to our postpaid wireless, residential, and small business1&nbsp;customers that notify us of their inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Customers can notify us by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/covid-response-customers" target="_blank">here</a>.

1&nbsp;includes small business customers with 50 lines or less

<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizon-donates-international-covid-19">Verizon has today announced a $2.5 million grant&nbsp;</a>to be shared across a group of international countries and charities offering healthcare support and food relief. Each charity will receive a portion of the funds to bolster their ongoing humanitarian activities.&nbsp;

Verizon recently donated $3 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (WHO, in addition to a previous $2 million donation, as part of a partnership with Global Citizen’s “One World: Together At Home” global broadcast special to help aid healthcare workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Verizon’s total COVID-19 crisis commitment now stands at over $50 million in contributions and donations to nonprofits around the globe.

News ReleaseBASKING RIDGE, N.J.&nbsp;–&nbsp;During this unprecedented period challenging the world’s health and economy, Verizon stands ready to support our employees and serve our customers and public safety.Verizon’s networks have been engineered to perform during moments of crisis and disaster such as hurricanes, snow storms and flooding. During this time of heightened worry and concern, our primary goal is to keep our customers, employees and society connected to the things that matter most to them: their family, friends and business customers.Verizon is closely monitoring network usage in the most impacted areas. We will work with and prioritize network demand in assisting many U.S. hospitals, first responders and government agencies, as needed.We are providing daily updates to our employees and our consumer and business customers on our network performance, offering help and support for their connectivity needs, tips on how to work in this new environment and more. We encourage you to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/speed-uts-live?bid=empcomms" target="_blank">check here</a>&nbsp;every day at noon ET, for the latest updates.<h2>Daily updates, offers &amp; resources:</h2><h2>Update: Effective April 27:</h2><a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizon-help-customers-and-small-businesses">Verizon is extending its commitment to keep our customers connected through June 30.&nbsp;</a>This means we will neither terminate service nor charge late fees to our postpaid wireless, residential, and small business1&nbsp;customers that notify us of their inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Customers can notify us by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/covid-response-customers" target="_blank">here</a>.1&nbsp;includes small business customers with 50 lines or less<h2>Update: Effective April 23:</h2><a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizon-donates-international-covid-19">Verizon has today announced a $2.5 million grant&nbsp;</a>to be shared across a group of international countries and charities offering healthcare support and food relief. Each charity will receive a portion of the funds to bolster their ongoing humanitarian activities.&nbsp;Verizon recently donated $3 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (WHO, in addition to a previous $2 million donation, as part of a partnership with Global Citizen’s “One World: Together At Home” global broadcast special to help aid healthcare workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Verizon’s total COVID-19 crisis commitment now stands at over $50 million in contributions and donations to nonprofits around the globe.<a></a>Update: Effective April 22:<h2>Pay It Forward Live Concert</h2>GRAMMY Award winning siblings Billie Eilish and FINNEAS will be performing a very special and intimate live concert from their home on Verizon’s Pay It Forward Live. The live stream will take place on 4/22 at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT on Twitter @Verizon, Yahoo, Verizon’s Facebook and YouTube pages, Fios Channel 501 and 604, AXS TV, FOX NOW or listen on iHeart and SiriusXM. Pay It Forward Live is Verizon’s weekly streaming entertainment series in support of small businesses affected by COVID-19.<h2>15GB free high-speed data</h2>Verizon continues to support customers who may find themselves needing additional data in order to learn, work or keep connected during this challenging time. That’s why today, we announced we are automatically adding an additional 15GB of 4G LTE data to consumer and small business* shared data plans, hotspots and jetpacks to be used&nbsp; from May 1 through May 31. There is no action needed as this data will automatically be added to consumer and small business accounts.* Includes small business customers with 50 lines or less<h2>Update: Effective April 21:</h2><h2>Verizon partners with American Express for “Stand for Small” to support U.S. small businesses&nbsp;</h2>Today, Verizon announced its participation in the American Express ‘Stand for Small’ program, which is a coalition of more than 40 companies across media, technology, consumer goods and professional services, and many other industries, that have come together to provide meaningful support to small businesses as they navigate the impacts of COVID-19.&nbsp;<h2>Verizon’s Pay It Forward Live continues with Lilly Singh and gamers from DIG Fe on Tuesday, April 21&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/biggest-names-helping" target="_blank">Verizon’s&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.verizon.com/pay-it-forward-live/?CMP=OLA_SMB_OTH_22222_NA_20200325_NA_NM20200057_00001" target="_blank">Pay It Forward Live</a>, the weekly streaming entertainment series in support of small businesses affected by COVID-19, continues on Tuesday when professional esports athlete Emmalee “EMUHLEET” Garrido and other members of Dignitas’s all-female gaming team DIG Fe will stream Riot Games’ VALORANT with Lilly Singh. The action will start at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT and stream live on Twitter @Verizon, EMUHLEET’s Twitch, Yahoo, Verizon’s Facebook page, Fios Channel 501, YouTube, and XBOX. The event will be available on Verizon’s platforms for one week following the live stream.&nbsp;<h2>Verizon Media launches platform enhancements to maximize streaming reach and revenues</h2>Verizon Media has launched a range of capabilities to enable broadcasters, content owners, and service providers to grow audiences and monetize content in new ways. These include advanced advertising tools that improve transparency in the bidding process and track ad performance. Additional features that maximize audience reach and enhance live event streaming have also been announced.<h2>Update: Effective April 17:</h2>Verizon is donating $3 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (WHO) as part of a partnership with Global Citizens One World: Together At Home global broadcast special to help aid healthcare workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The globally televised and live-streamed special will air on April 18 and feature performances and appearances from international entertainers. Through the United Nations Foundation, the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund will help support the WHO and partners’ efforts to track and understand the spread of the virus; to ensure patients get the care they need and frontline workers get essential supplies and information; and to accelerate efforts to develop vaccines, tests, and treatments.&nbsp;Verizon is also powering a text-to-action campaign during the U.S. broadcast to engage the audience and encourage viewers to take action to beat coronavirus. Viewers can visit Act.Me to take action or text ‘ACTION’ to 31318. From taking care to wash their hands, to staying at home, to calling on governments, big business and more, viewers can pledge to take action to increase their impact and help support recovery efforts.Verizon’s most recent donation brings the company’s total support of the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for WHO to $5 million and their total COVID-19 crisis commitment to $48 million in contributions and donations to nonprofits directed at serving students, healthcare workers, first responders, and small businesses.<h2>Update: Effective April 16:</h2><h2>Technologies enable federal, state and local governments</h2>New Mexico’s Aging and Long-Term Services Department worked with Verizon to distribute hundreds of tablets to nursing facilities across the state.A mobile cell site and landline connectivity were recently delivered to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/manning-fort">Fort Totten Park in Queens, NY</a>, which is being used as a base of operations for the military, fire department, up to 300 ambulances, and as a potential site for a field hospital. Hundreds of&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/uroE7Twi1j4" target="_blank">smartphones and devices were delivered to the U.S. National Guard</a>&nbsp;who were recently deployed to New York City in a 24-hour window.Verizon also partnered with the State of Rhode Island Department of Health on a new COVID-19 hotline to better serve Rhode Islanders during this crisis.<h2>Update: Effective April 15:</h2><h2>Network Usage Continues to Normalize</h2>For the second straight week, Verizon reports that data usage is basically flat or down slightly week-over-week — including gaming, streaming video, virtual private network (VPN) connections, web browsing and social media — indicating people have settled into their new routines.Use of collaboration tools like video teleconferencing during Easter Sunday was up 36% compared to the prior Sunday, and up 13% during Passover compared to the previous week. Text messages were also up 28% Sunday over Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to the global health crisis and a holiday weekend, severe weather and tornadoes ripped through the South causing significant damage and power outages for millions. With damage to network facilities, the Verizon Network team quickly deployed mobile cell towers and mobile satellite cell equipment to re-establish communications in the wake of the storm.<h2>Unlimited Pricing for nurses and teachers now and moving forward</h2>Starting April 23, Verizon is expanding our best wireless unlimited pricing to nurses, who are doing such critical work keeping our friends, family and neighbors cared for, and teachers, who are keeping our students engaged and learning. They join active-duty military, veterans and people who work as first responders who already benefit from this ongoing pricing for their personal accounts and for their families. Fios internet customers can also take advantage of the discounts starting May 7.<h2>Verizon and EMS FDNY Help Fund Partner to serve EMS Help Fund members and support NYC restaurants</h2>The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Help Fund and Verizon began a joint effort to provide more than 700 EMS FDNY Help Fund members/emergency medical technicians and paramedics with daily meals prepared by NYC restaurants on Sunday. As a result of this partnership, over the next four weeks, nearly 22,000 meals will be provided to EMS Help Fund members in all five boroughs.<h2>Verizon’s ongoing commitment to those who serve</h2>Verizon has long recognized the impact of those who serve in our community through unique offers, discounts, recognition and donations. And, over the past weeks, Verizon has centered COVID-19 relief efforts on healthcare workers, small businesses, teachers, students, military and those who serve as first responders. To date, Verizon has committed $45 million in contributions and donations to nonprofits directed at serving students, healthcare first responders, and small businesses.<h2>Update: Effective April 13:</h2><h2>New tool allows technicians to assist customers while maintaining social distancing</h2>Verizon has deployed a new tool to serve residential and small business customers who need repairs for their wireline voice, data or video services. The virtual assistant, video chat app, and self-service portal enables technicians to assist customers while maintaining social distancing recommendations, removing the need for technicians to enter residences or premises.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5pxwsYTwZ0&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">Thousands of technicians are using the tool</a>&nbsp;and have resolved 90% of repair requests when the tool has been used.&nbsp;“We know how critical communication is, especially now as more and more people are working from home, engaging in distance learning and moving their family and friend interactions online,” said Kevin Service, Senior Vice President of Operations for Verizon. “This new tool gives us the ability to provide the excellent service our customers deserve while minimizing the need for in-person interaction in these unprecedented times.”&nbsp;<h2>Hunter Pence and Damonte team up on Verizon’s Pay It Forward Live&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.verizon.com/pay-it-forward-live/?CMP=OLA_SMB_OTH_22222_NA_20200325_NA_NM20200057_00001" target="_blank">Pay It Forward Live</a>, continues on Tuesday, April 14 when professional baseball player Hunter Pence and esports organization Dignitas’ Tanner Damonte team up to play League of Legends at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT on Twitter @Verizon, Damonte’s Twitch, Yahoo, Verizon’s Facebook page, and Fios Channel 501. The event will be available on Verizon’s platforms for one week following the live stream.<h2>Update: Effective April 9:</h2><h2>Verizon teams on the frontlines with COVID-19 first responders</h2>The Verizon Response Team (VRT) has been engaged since the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic and to date, has deployed emergency services and solutions to hundreds of COVID-19-related response sites in more than 30 states. In addition to day-to-day support of federal, state and local government agencies on the frontlines of the pandemic, the VRT delivers on-demand, emergency assistance during crisis situations to government agencies, emergency responders, nonprofits and communities on a 24/7/365 basis. Its solutions include portable cell sites, WiFi hotspots, free charging stations and other devices and solutions that enable communications and/or boost network performance.<h2>Alicia Keys to perform on Verizon’s Pay It Forward Live on Thursday, April 9</h2>Fifteen-time Grammy winner and global music icon Alicia Keys will perform on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.verizon.com/payitforwardlive" target="_blank">Pay It Forward Live</a>, Verizon’s weekly streaming entertainment series in support of small businesses affected by COVID-19, on Thursday, April 9. The performance will stream live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/verizon" target="_blank">@Verizon</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.yahoo.com/" target="_blank">Yahoo</a>&nbsp;and Fios Channel 501. The event will also be available on these platforms for one week following the live stream.<h2>Verizon Network Update:</h2>After weeks of significant increases in voice and data usage as a result of millions of people transitioning to working from home, distance learning and virtual socializing, new routines and usage behaviors are stabilizing, according to the latest Verizon Network report.The report also shows that as new routines emerge, on-demand entertainment is taking center stage. On-demand movie viewing is up 32% compared to the typical pre-COVID-19 average weekly viewing. Customers have also embraced TV series filled with action, suspense and comedy.&nbsp;<h2>Last weekend, the top 5 Fios Video on Demand HD titles were:&nbsp;</h2>1. 19172. Bad Boys for Life3. Onward4. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker5. Jumanji: The Next Level<h2>The top 5 Fios on-demand TV series viewed last week include:</h2>1. Homeland2. Westworld3. Keeping Up with the Kardashians4. Curb Your Enthusiasm5. Outlander<a></a>Update: Effective April 7:<h2>Yahoo Sports and the Women’s Sports Foundation launch #WeKeepPlaying</h2>Yahoo Sports and the Women’s Sports Foundation announced #WeKeepPlaying, a first of its kind live event bringing together some of the most iconic women in professional sports to inspire young athletes during the COVID-19 crisis. The elite athletes will share their own stories of personal resilience to engage and inspire young athletes across the globe during this unprecedented time. The event will stream live on Saturday, April 11, 2020 at 4:00 pm ET&nbsp;<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/billie-jean-king-sabrina-ionescu-wekeepplaying-womens-sports-140031515.html" target="_blank">exclusively on the Yahoo Sports</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/" target="_blank">mobile app and YahooSports.com.</a><h2>4/7: Verizon Network Report</h2>More and more people across the country appear to be following shelter-in-place mandates as cell site handoffs continued to decline. According to the latest Verizon Network Report, handoffs have decreased by 35% nationally compared to a typical day, down another 6% from what was reported last week. Verizon’s New York Metro and Upstate New York markets showed the biggest declines at 51% and 61% respectively vs. a typical day. Other Verizon markets like the Mid-Atlantic/Greater Washington, D.C. metro area and New England also showed significant declines of 39% and 41%, respectively, with the Southern California and Northern California markets both declining 41% vs. a typical day.<a></a>Update: Effective April 6:<h2>Small Business Webinar Series</h2>Verizon will debut a Small Business Webinar Series to share practical advice, insight and tips to help small businesses survive during these unprecedented times.&nbsp;The first event begins April 7 at&nbsp; 2 p.m. EST and will feature entrepreneur Mike Michalowicz, best-selling author of “Profit First,” and U.S. Small Business Association entrepreneur of the year. Mike will offer specific steps small business owners can take now and how to be ready to grow after the crisis.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Access to the Times</h2>From April 6 to July 6, students and teachers will have free digital access to NYTimes.com. The New York Times Company and Verizon joined forces to offer all students and teachers in high schools to support student learning during these turbulent and uncertain times.&nbsp;<h2>Cizzorz and Pokimane joinVerizon’s PayItForwar LIVE line-up&nbsp;</h2>As part of Verizon’s PayItForward LIVE Cizzorz and Pokimane will be live April 7 on Cizzorz’s Twitch, @verizon’s Twitter, Yahoo, and Fios Channel 501 at 8pm ET for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.verizon.com/pay-it-forward-live/" target="_blank">Verizon’s Pay It Forward Live&nbsp;</a>supporting small businesses. Verizon’s&nbsp; PayItForward LIVE connects big names to small businesses by offering streaming entertainment to those at home and financial support to those small businesses in need.<a></a>Update: Effective April 2:"We're proud to highlight our Verizon network performance following today's call with the President and his team. Our network is providing a necessary lifeline today - and everyday - and continues to operate the way our customers have come to expect. I'm proud of our team as we deliver critical connectivity, and essential products and services to millions of Americans, businesses and those on the frontlines.&nbsp; We are all in this together."— Hans Vestberg, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Verizon Communications Inc.