NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Emergency grants are available to Mid-Plains Community College students who have experienced hardship as a result of COVID-19. The application can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/coronavirusinformation" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/coronavirusinformation</a>.

The assistance is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The act includes a Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) that provides emergency funding to institutions to be used in the form of emergency financial aid grants for student expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the COVID-19 crisis.

To be eligible, students must meet the following qualifications:

• Be enrolled at MPCC for Spring 2020 past March 13, 2020

• Have a 2019-20 FAFSA on file with MPCC

• Be eligible for federal financial aid (also known as Title IV)

• Have incurred an eligible expense related to COVID-19

International and undocumented students, as well as students who were enrolled exclusively online prior to March 13, 2020, are not eligible for HEERF funds.

Students who have not completed a FAFSA for 2019-20, but who wish to apply for the funds, or those who have questions about their eligibility, can contact Erinn Brown, MPCC area director of financial aid, at (308) 345-8112 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:browne@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">browne@mpcc.edu</a>.

By Heather Johnson-MPCCNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Emergency grants are available to Mid-Plains Community College students who have experienced hardship as a result of COVID-19. The application can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/coronavirusinformation" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/coronavirusinformation</a>.The assistance is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The act includes a Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) that provides emergency funding to institutions to be used in the form of emergency financial aid grants for student expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the COVID-19 crisis.To be eligible, students must meet the following qualifications:• Be enrolled at MPCC for Spring 2020 past March 13, 2020• Have a 2019-20 FAFSA on file with MPCC• Be eligible for federal financial aid (also known as Title IV)• Have incurred an eligible expense related to COVID-19International and undocumented students, as well as students who were enrolled exclusively online prior to March 13, 2020, are not eligible for HEERF funds.Students who have not completed a FAFSA for 2019-20, but who wish to apply for the funds, or those who have questions about their eligibility, can contact Erinn Brown, MPCC area director of financial aid, at (308) 345-8112 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:browne@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">browne@mpcc.edu</a>.

Emergency grants available to MPCC students

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The
North Platte Public Schools Foundation is pleased to announce that it
has awarded the first Sheila Young Memorial Scholarship to 2020 NPHS
graduate Jestynne Crankshaw.  


Jestynne
is the daughter of Dave and Jerrilyn Crankshaw.  Crankshaw plans to
attend the University of Lincoln-Omaha and major in Criminal Justice
and Education.  She hopes to use her education to return to a rural
area and work in law enforcement and potentially work for the FBI in
a behavioral analysis unit.   Jestynne is an honor roll student, on
the Mid Plains Community College Deans list and a member of the NPHS
Unified Bowling and trap team.  She was a member of 2019 National
Champion Skills USA Opening and Closing Ceremonies team.  Jestynne
also holds honors as the 4H State Champion in competition shooting.  


Sheila
(Swanson) Young was a graduate of NPHS class of 1964. She was a
devoted social worker who committed her life to serving others. In
her memory, her family will give this scholarship annually to one
NPHS graduating senior, who plans to pursue a career in Social Work
or Human Services. Applicants must be a person of high moral
character who has demonstrated a natural propensity to serve others
in a helping field.  The scholarship may be renewable as long as the
student is in good standing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588004770339.png" alt="Jestynne Crankshaw" />
 <figcaption>Jestynne Crankshaw</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The
North Platte Public Schools Foundation is pleased to announce that it
has awarded the first Sheila Young Memorial Scholarship to 2020 NPHS
graduate Jestynne Crankshaw. 
Jestynne
is the daughter of Dave and Jerrilyn Crankshaw. Crankshaw plans to
attend the University of Lincoln-Omaha and major in Criminal Justice
and Education. She hopes to use her education to return to a rural
area and work in law enforcement and potentially work for the FBI in
a behavioral analysis unit. Jestynne is an honor roll student, on
the Mid Plains Community College Deans list and a member of the NPHS
Unified Bowling and trap team. She was a member of 2019 National
Champion Skills USA Opening and Closing Ceremonies team. Jestynne
also holds honors as the 4H State Champion in competition shooting. 
Sheila
(Swanson) Young was a graduate of NPHS class of 1964. She was a
devoted social worker who committed her life to serving others. In
her memory, her family will give this scholarship annually to one
NPHS graduating senior, who plans to pursue a career in Social Work
or Human Services. Applicants must be a person of high moral
character who has demonstrated a natural propensity to serve others
in a helping field. The scholarship may be renewable as long as the
student is in good standing.

Jestynne Crankshaw awarded Sheila Young Memorial Scholarship 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A staff member at a Nebraska prison in Lincoln has tested positive for the coronavirus, officials announced Sunday.

The Department of Correctional Services said the staffer works for its Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln and has been isolated at home for five days.

"The individual in this case has indicated no close contact with any other staff members of inmates," Department Director Scott Frakes said in a statement.

Frakes said the prison will take additional precautions and monitor the temperatures of the people in the housing unit where the employee worked.

This is the second known case of coronavirus among department employees. The department said no inmates have tested positive.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A staff member at a Nebraska prison in Lincoln has tested positive for the coronavirus, officials announced Sunday.The Department of Correctional Services said the staffer works for its Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln and has been isolated at home for five days."The individual in this case has indicated no close contact with any other staff members of inmates," Department Director Scott Frakes said in a statement.Frakes said the prison will take additional precautions and monitor the temperatures of the people in the housing unit where the employee worked.This is the second known case of coronavirus among department employees. The department said no inmates have tested positive.

Nebraska prison staffer tests positive for coronavirus

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

The Dakota County Health Department reported one new death, that of a person in their 60s.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth/">https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth/&nbsp;</a>

The Central District Health Department reported one new death in Hamilton County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/">https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/&nbsp;</a>

A third death was reported Sunday. Further details will be forthcoming.

Jefferson County reported its first COVID-19 case on Sunday.

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

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 56, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Today's state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 3,028. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

3All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.

In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

1Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>

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

1Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.

1Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.

1Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

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

1DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Three new COVID-19 related deaths were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Sunday.The Dakota County Health Department reported one new death, that of a person in their 60s.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth/">https://www.facebook.com/dakotacountyhealth/&nbsp;</a>The Central District Health Department reported one new death in Hamilton County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/">https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/&nbsp;</a>A third death was reported Sunday. Further details will be forthcoming.Jefferson County reported its first COVID-19 case on Sunday.Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 56, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Today's state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 3,028. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;3All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;1Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;1<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>1Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.1Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.1Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.1DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

COVID-19 claims more lives on Sunday with 3 new deaths reported

Imagine a major-college quarterback with a sizable social media following who posts entertaining and informative updates about his life on and off the field.

Now imagine a restaurant hiring him as its pitchman and paying him $500 or $1,000 each time he posts content with its messaging.

That scenario could become reality as soon as 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a059f16cba96ce115152b577a97e3ea6" target="_blank">as the NCAA figures out the details of how college athletes can be compensated</a>&nbsp;for the use of their name, image or likeness.

Blake Lawrence crunched the numbers on earning potential for that imaginary quarterback based on the QB having 40,000 followers on Twitter and 50,000 on Instagram. The co-founder and CEO of athlete marketing platform Opendorse based his projection on a popular college athlete having a market value approximate to that of a retired, well-known pro athlete; active pros command higher fees.

Lawrence said it would be reasonable to assume the quarterback would sign separate deals with 10 local businesses and post a total of 60 to 120 sponsored content messages a year on one of his social media accounts.

"So quickly it's $60,000 to $120,000 a year," Lawrence said. "You can see how the math adds up pretty quick in terms of opportunities for high level student-athletes to earn a significant sum of money from activating their social and digital media presence on behalf of sponsors in the local community."

While autograph signing and public appearances have been traditional ways for professional athletes to make extra money, most opportunities now are tied to social media. The bridge between athlete and sponsor will likely be content delivery platforms - a cottage industry of sorts eager to link the two and cash in. And having those platform relationships in place will almost surely be a recruiting tool for schools.

"There's going to be a whole industry springing up around NIL," or name, image and likeness, Lawrence said. "There is an ecosystem forming, and the incumbents are jostling and developing different types of tools and technology, and it's going to be wild."

Opendorse and INFLCR (pronounced "Influencer") will be major players to start, and another company, Greenfly, plans to establish more of a presence in the college market.

All three have contracts with pro teams and leagues as well as college athletic departments. They store and manage content - game photos and videos, for example - that athletes can share on their personal social media accounts. The photos and videos are provided by the teams themselves and through agreements with media organizations.

Athletes can access the content and share it with their followers. The pros use it to promote brands and supplement their income; college athletes will be able to do the same once they get the green light.

"Will some athletes make less than $1,000 (per year)? Yes. Can some athletes make more than $100,000? Yes," INFLCR founder and CEO Jim Cavale said. "Are any millionaires going to be made off this? Very few, if any."

Opendorse, based in Lincoln, Nebraska, has contracts with 75 colleges in addition to deals with the PGA Tour and players' unions for the NFL and Major League Baseball, among other entities. INFLCR, based in Birmingham, Alabama, has 100-plus colleges as clients as well as NBA and NFL players, NASCAR drivers and other pro athletes. Greenfly, based in Santa Monica, California, has worked mostly with professional sports, notably baseball.

Once NIL rules go into effect, athletic departments will be under pressure to go all in with opportunities for their athletes or risk watching recruits go elsewhere. The delivery platforms will need to provide transaction management technology that meets NCAA standards for oversight amid concerns about abuses, sham deals and play-for-pay schemes.

An athlete wouldn't necessarily have to use the platform provided by their school, but going elsewhere would mean paying for it and there could be technical obstacles in reporting transactions to their school.

Opendorse, launched in 2012, counts schools such as Clemson and Michigan among its clients, along with Nebraska. INFLCR has signed deals with teams such as Duke, Kansas and Kentucky, among others, since its start in 2017. INFLCR was acquired last fall by Teamworks, which develops software teams used for in-house scheduling and messaging for teams at 264 Division I schools. Greenfly went live in 2014, and the only college partnership it publicizes is one with Kansas State.

Athletes would conduct most or all of their NIL business through an app developed by the content delivery company. They could post sponsored content in different ways, perhaps mixing a personal message with an agreed-upon shoutout to the sponsor, or with the tap of a button relay a post composed by the sponsor.

Under Nebraska's contract with Opendorse for the year ending Feb. 28, 2021, obtained through a public records request, the athletic department will pay $235,000 for the company to maintain the content management system that's been in place since 2015. The company will also educate athletes on branding and polishing their online profiles to make them more attractive to potential sponsors, a program called "Ready Now."

Nebraska, where Lawrence played football from 2007-09, received $150,000 in discounts for bulk pricing (more than 500 athletes) and for being the first school to sign on with "Ready Now."

The tech companies will generate revenue through contracts to provide their services to schools and possibly from commissions. Sponsors - not the athletes - pay commissions ranging from 10% to 30% in pro sports.

"It's yet to be seen if those types of margins or commissions make sense at the college level," Lawrence said.

INFLCR's Cavale said the day of college athletes getting paid for use of their NIL has been coming since former UCLA basketball player Ed O'Bannon brought the issue to the forefront with his 2009 class-action antitrust lawsuit against the NCAA.

"Everybody understood it wasn't a matter of if but when NIL comes," Cavale said.

By ERIC OLSON-AP Sports WriterImagine a major-college quarterback with a sizable social media following who posts entertaining and informative updates about his life on and off the field.Now imagine a restaurant hiring him as its pitchman and paying him $500 or $1,000 each time he posts content with its messaging.That scenario could become reality as soon as 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a059f16cba96ce115152b577a97e3ea6" target="_blank">as the NCAA figures out the details of how college athletes can be compensated</a>&nbsp;for the use of their name, image or likeness.Blake Lawrence crunched the numbers on earning potential for that imaginary quarterback based on the QB having 40,000 followers on Twitter and 50,000 on Instagram. The co-founder and CEO of athlete marketing platform Opendorse based his projection on a popular college athlete having a market value approximate to that of a retired, well-known pro athlete; active pros command higher fees.Lawrence said it would be reasonable to assume the quarterback would sign separate deals with 10 local businesses and post a total of 60 to 120 sponsored content messages a year on one of his social media accounts."So quickly it's $60,000 to $120,000 a year," Lawrence said. "You can see how the math adds up pretty quick in terms of opportunities for high level student-athletes to earn a significant sum of money from activating their social and digital media presence on behalf of sponsors in the local community."While autograph signing and public appearances have been traditional ways for professional athletes to make extra money, most opportunities now are tied to social media. The bridge between athlete and sponsor will likely be content delivery platforms - a cottage industry of sorts eager to link the two and cash in. And having those platform relationships in place will almost surely be a recruiting tool for schools."There's going to be a whole industry springing up around NIL," or name, image and likeness, Lawrence said. "There is an ecosystem forming, and the incumbents are jostling and developing different types of tools and technology, and it's going to be wild."Opendorse and INFLCR (pronounced "Influencer") will be major players to start, and another company, Greenfly, plans to establish more of a presence in the college market.All three have contracts with pro teams and leagues as well as college athletic departments. They store and manage content - game photos and videos, for example - that athletes can share on their personal social media accounts. The photos and videos are provided by the teams themselves and through agreements with media organizations.Athletes can access the content and share it with their followers. The pros use it to promote brands and supplement their income; college athletes will be able to do the same once they get the green light."Will some athletes make less than $1,000 (per year)? Yes. Can some athletes make more than $100,000? Yes," INFLCR founder and CEO Jim Cavale said. "Are any millionaires going to be made off this? Very few, if any."Opendorse, based in Lincoln, Nebraska, has contracts with 75 colleges in addition to deals with the PGA Tour and players' unions for the NFL and Major League Baseball, among other entities. INFLCR, based in Birmingham, Alabama, has 100-plus colleges as clients as well as NBA and NFL players, NASCAR drivers and other pro athletes. Greenfly, based in Santa Monica, California, has worked mostly with professional sports, notably baseball.Once NIL rules go into effect, athletic departments will be under pressure to go all in with opportunities for their athletes or risk watching recruits go elsewhere. The delivery platforms will need to provide transaction management technology that meets NCAA standards for oversight amid concerns about abuses, sham deals and play-for-pay schemes.An athlete wouldn't necessarily have to use the platform provided by their school, but going elsewhere would mean paying for it and there could be technical obstacles in reporting transactions to their school.Opendorse, launched in 2012, counts schools such as Clemson and Michigan among its clients, along with Nebraska. INFLCR has signed deals with teams such as Duke, Kansas and Kentucky, among others, since its start in 2017. INFLCR was acquired last fall by Teamworks, which develops software teams used for in-house scheduling and messaging for teams at 264 Division I schools. Greenfly went live in 2014, and the only college partnership it publicizes is one with Kansas State.Athletes would conduct most or all of their NIL business through an app developed by the content delivery company. They could post sponsored content in different ways, perhaps mixing a personal message with an agreed-upon shoutout to the sponsor, or with the tap of a button relay a post composed by the sponsor.Under Nebraska's contract with Opendorse for the year ending Feb. 28, 2021, obtained through a public records request, the athletic department will pay $235,000 for the company to maintain the content management system that's been in place since 2015. The company will also educate athletes on branding and polishing their online profiles to make them more attractive to potential sponsors, a program called "Ready Now."Nebraska, where Lawrence played football from 2007-09, received $150,000 in discounts for bulk pricing (more than 500 athletes) and for being the first school to sign on with "Ready Now."The tech companies will generate revenue through contracts to provide their services to schools and possibly from commissions. Sponsors - not the athletes - pay commissions ranging from 10% to 30% in pro sports."It's yet to be seen if those types of margins or commissions make sense at the college level," Lawrence said.INFLCR's Cavale said the day of college athletes getting paid for use of their NIL has been coming since former UCLA basketball player Ed O'Bannon brought the issue to the forefront with his 2009 class-action antitrust lawsuit against the NCAA."Everybody understood it wasn't a matter of if but when NIL comes," Cavale said.

Tech companies, like college athletes, eager to cash in

From the CDC<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587948606729.jpeg" alt="CDC Graphic" />
 <figcaption>CDC Graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>

Is it coronavirus, flu, cold or allergies?

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska churches are taking a cautious approach to resuming worship services even though the state will allow them to gather their members again starting next month.

The Rev. Michael McCabe of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln said he's looking forward to seeing his congregation again on Sunday mornings, but he's not sure exactly when that will happen. Gov. Pete Ricketts has announced plans to begin easing restrictions in the state starting May 4, including allowing churches to reopen if they take certain precautions.

The governor's office said churches will need to refrain from passing items between worshipers and people from different households will have to sit 6 feet apart.

For now, McCabe's church will continue to worship online.

"Health comes first at this point in time," McCabe said.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Omaha said services will be allowed again beginning May 4, but the archbishop is leaving the reopening decision up to pastors and their parish councils.

"I am grateful that soon we will be able to welcome parishioners back to our churches for Mass," Archbishop George Lucas said. "We will work within the necessary restrictions for everyone's safety."

At Christ Community Church in west Omaha, the Rev. Mark Ashton said the church hasn't decided when it will start having services in its worship center again, but it won't rush to restart services partly because it has a strong online option. The church has about 3,000 members, and its worship center holds about 1,600.

"If we were to do appropriate social distancing, really we're talking more like about 400 or 500 would be able to fit in there," Ashton said. "So we're asking some strategic questions about people's worship experience and then we would have to expand the number of services to be able to accommodate a similar number of people."

Nebraska health officials said the number of coronavirus cases in the state increased by 311 this weekend to at least 2,732 cases. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.

Three additional deaths were also reported in Nebraska on Saturday, so the total of deaths rose to 53.

Hall County, which is home to Grand Island, continues to lead the state in COVID-19 cases with 797. The much more populous Douglas County, which includes the state's largest city of Omaha, has 382 cases.

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.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska churches are taking a cautious approach to resuming worship services even though the state will allow them to gather their members again starting next month.The Rev. Michael McCabe of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln said he's looking forward to seeing his congregation again on Sunday mornings, but he's not sure exactly when that will happen. Gov. Pete Ricketts has announced plans to begin easing restrictions in the state starting May 4, including allowing churches to reopen if they take certain precautions.The governor's office said churches will need to refrain from passing items between worshipers and people from different households will have to sit 6 feet apart.For now, McCabe's church will continue to worship online."Health comes first at this point in time," McCabe said.The Catholic Archdiocese of Omaha said services will be allowed again beginning May 4, but the archbishop is leaving the reopening decision up to pastors and their parish councils."I am grateful that soon we will be able to welcome parishioners back to our churches for Mass," Archbishop George Lucas said. "We will work within the necessary restrictions for everyone's safety."At Christ Community Church in west Omaha, the Rev. Mark Ashton said the church hasn't decided when it will start having services in its worship center again, but it won't rush to restart services partly because it has a strong online option. The church has about 3,000 members, and its worship center holds about 1,600."If we were to do appropriate social distancing, really we're talking more like about 400 or 500 would be able to fit in there," Ashton said. "So we're asking some strategic questions about people's worship experience and then we would have to expand the number of services to be able to accommodate a similar number of people."Nebraska health officials said the number of coronavirus cases in the state increased by 311 this weekend to at least 2,732 cases. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.Three additional deaths were also reported in Nebraska on Saturday, so the total of deaths rose to 53.Hall County, which is home to Grand Island, continues to lead the state in COVID-19 cases with 797. The much more populous Douglas County, which includes the state's largest city of Omaha, has 382 cases.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.

Nebraska churches cautious about resuming worship services

By CORINNE BOYER <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/update-coronavirus-clusters-grow-rapidly-three-western-kansas-meatpacking-counties">Kansas News Service</a>

Update: Kansas Health Secretary Lee Norman said on Friday that 
Kansas has now identified 250 cases of COVID-19 among workers at the 
state's six meatpacking plants. The federal government has sent supplies
 to test thousands of people in southwest Kansas. Meanwhile, the Centers
 for Disease Control and Prevention is sending staff to the region.

GARDEN CITY, Kansas —
 Two western Kansas counties that are home to meatpacking plants have 
some of the highest counts of the coronavirus in the state. It’s a 
distinction that comes as the Tyson plant near Garden City said this 
week it has several cases among its workers.

None of the 
meatpacking plants, which make up about 25% of the national beef supply 
according to a Kansas State professor’s estimate, has shared a specific 
count of workers with a COVID-19 diagnosis. And the state health 
department leaves it up to county health departments to decide whether 
to provide the public with detailed case information.

In the 
span of 11 days, Ford County, where there is a National Beef and a 
Cargill plant in Dodge City, has gone from 16 cases to 288. Seward 
County, which has a National Beef plant in Liberal, went from six to 
125. Finney County, where the Tyson plant is located, is up from 17 to 
87.

Several meatpacking plants around the country, from South 
Dakota to Iowa to Colorado, have had to shut down temporarily over the 
past few weeks due to the number of workers coming down with the 
coronavirus. But so far, Kansas’ major meatpacking plants have not fully
 shut down, though the National Beef plant in Dodge City did close for a
 few days for deep cleaning.

Companies say they’ve been taking 
extra precautions and social distancing measures. But unions are 
pressing for better protections inside plants, where workers 
stand-side-by side to cut meat from carcasses.&nbsp;

Kansas Gov. Laura
 Kelly said there is an “all-hands-on-deck” approach to the situation at
 the local, state and federal levels for testing, isolation and 
providing things like shields and personal protective equipment to 
protect workers.

“We’ve found isolation housing for those who 
need to be quarantined if they’ve had any contact,” Kelly said Thursday 
on KCUR’s “Up To Date” talk show. “So we’re taking a very aggressive 
approach, because we don’t want to be like Iowa or South Dakota where 
we’re having to shut those plants down.”

The Tyson plant in 
Holcomb employs about 3,800 people. The announcement of cases among 
Tyson workers came shortly after the Finney County Health Department 
began testing up to 50 people a day for the virus. Health department 
director Colleen Drees said “there is evidence of community spread.”&nbsp;

High
 Plains Public Radio news director Angie Haflich and Kansas News Service
 news editor Erica Hunzinger contributed to this report.

Corinne Boyer covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://kannews.slack.com/team/UFFCS11T5">@Corinne</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Corinne_Boyer?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"> _boyer</a> or email cboyer@hppr,org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587938713112.png" alt=" National Beef has a meatpacking plant in Liberal, Kansas, which is in Seward County. Bethany Wood / For the Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> National Beef has a meatpacking plant in Liberal, Kansas, which is in Seward County. Bethany Wood / For the Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By CORINNE BOYER <a href="https://www.hppr.org/post/update-coronavirus-clusters-grow-rapidly-three-western-kansas-meatpacking-counties">Kansas News Service</a>Update: Kansas Health Secretary Lee Norman said on Friday that 
Kansas has now identified 250 cases of COVID-19 among workers at the 
state's six meatpacking plants. The federal government has sent supplies
 to test thousands of people in southwest Kansas. Meanwhile, the Centers
 for Disease Control and Prevention is sending staff to the region.GARDEN CITY, Kansas —
 Two western Kansas counties that are home to meatpacking plants have 
some of the highest counts of the coronavirus in the state. It’s a 
distinction that comes as the Tyson plant near Garden City said this 
week it has several cases among its workers.None of the 
meatpacking plants, which make up about 25% of the national beef supply 
according to a Kansas State professor’s estimate, has shared a specific 
count of workers with a COVID-19 diagnosis. And the state health 
department leaves it up to county health departments to decide whether 
to provide the public with detailed case information.In the 
span of 11 days, Ford County, where there is a National Beef and a 
Cargill plant in Dodge City, has gone from 16 cases to 288. Seward 
County, which has a National Beef plant in Liberal, went from six to 
125. Finney County, where the Tyson plant is located, is up from 17 to 
87.Several meatpacking plants around the country, from South 
Dakota to Iowa to Colorado, have had to shut down temporarily over the 
past few weeks due to the number of workers coming down with the 
coronavirus. But so far, Kansas’ major meatpacking plants have not fully
 shut down, though the National Beef plant in Dodge City did close for a
 few days for deep cleaning.Companies say they’ve been taking 
extra precautions and social distancing measures. But unions are 
pressing for better protections inside plants, where workers 
stand-side-by side to cut meat from carcasses.&nbsp;Kansas Gov. Laura
 Kelly said there is an “all-hands-on-deck” approach to the situation at
 the local, state and federal levels for testing, isolation and 
providing things like shields and personal protective equipment to 
protect workers.“We’ve found isolation housing for those who 
need to be quarantined if they’ve had any contact,” Kelly said Thursday 
on KCUR’s “Up To Date” talk show. “So we’re taking a very aggressive 
approach, because we don’t want to be like Iowa or South Dakota where 
we’re having to shut those plants down.”The Tyson plant in 
Holcomb employs about 3,800 people. The announcement of cases among 
Tyson workers came shortly after the Finney County Health Department 
began testing up to 50 people a day for the virus. Health department 
director Colleen Drees said “there is evidence of community spread.”&nbsp;High
 Plains Public Radio news director Angie Haflich and Kansas News Service
 news editor Erica Hunzinger contributed to this report.Corinne Boyer covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://kannews.slack.com/team/UFFCS11T5">@Corinne</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Corinne_Boyer?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"> _boyer</a> or email cboyer@hppr,org.

Update: Virus clusters grow rapidly In 3 western Kan. meatpacking counties

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska health officials said 311 more coronavirus cases were reported to give the state at least 2,732 cases.

The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.

Three additional deaths were also reported in Nebraska on Saturday, so the total of deaths rose to 53. Two of the new deaths were reported in Hall County and one was in Hamilton County.

Gov. Pete Ricketts has announced plans to begin easing some restrictions in 59 of the state's 93 counties starting next month. The changes will allow restaurants to reopen their dining rooms as long as they limit crowds to less than half their capacity and maintain social distancing.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska health officials said 311 more coronavirus cases were reported to give the state at least 2,732 cases.The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.Three additional deaths were also reported in Nebraska on Saturday, so the total of deaths rose to 53. Two of the new deaths were reported in Hall County and one was in Hamilton County.Hall County, which is home to Grand Island, continues to lead the state in COVID-19 cases with 797. The much more populous Douglas County, which includes the state's largest city of Omaha, has 382 cases.Gov. Pete Ricketts has announced plans to begin easing some restrictions in 59 of the state's 93 counties starting next month. The changes will allow restaurants to reopen their dining rooms as long as they limit crowds to less than half their capacity and maintain social distancing.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.

Nebraska reports 2,732 cases of COVID-19 and 53 deaths

From the CDC<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FCDC%2Fposts%2F10157875984036026%3A0&show_text=true&width=552&height=652&appId" width="552" height="652" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FCDC%2Fvideos%2F531756597515913%2F&show_text=0&width=476" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

CDC: Cloth face covering do's and dont's

(AP)-The frustration of parents is mounting as more families across the U.S. enter their second or even third week of total distance learning. And some say it will be their last. 

Amid the barrage of learning apps, video meet-ups and e-mailed assignments that make up pandemic home school, some frustrated and exhausted parents are choosing to disconnect entirely for the rest of the academic year. 

Others are trying to keep up while working long hours and have resorted to cramming all their children's schoolwork into the weekends or are taking days off work to help their kids complete a week's worth of assignments in a day.&nbsp;

(AP)-The frustration of parents is mounting as more families across the U.S. enter their second or even third week of total distance learning. And some say it will be their last. Amid the barrage of learning apps, video meet-ups and e-mailed assignments that make up pandemic home school, some frustrated and exhausted parents are choosing to disconnect entirely for the rest of the academic year. Others are trying to keep up while working long hours and have resorted to cramming all their children's schoolwork into the weekends or are taking days off work to help their kids complete a week's worth of assignments in a day.&nbsp;

"I just can't do this." Harried parents forgo home school

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

Two deaths were in Hall County and one was in Hamilton County -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/&nbsp;</a>.

A first case of COVID-19 was recently reported Thurston County.

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 53, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Today's state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 2,732. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.

Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>

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

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

Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

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

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Three new COVID-19 related deaths were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Saturday.Two deaths were in Hall County and one was in Hamilton County -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov/&nbsp;</a>.A first case of COVID-19 was recently reported Thurston County.Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 53, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Today's state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 2,732. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

Health officials report 3 COVID-19 related deaths in Nebraska on Saturday

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (WCDHD) - The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) has two new cases of COVID-19 from Lincoln County.&nbsp;

One is a woman in her 50s, and the other is a man in his 50s. Both individuals are self-isolating at home.&nbsp;

To date, we have tested 519 individuals in Lincoln County for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Of the 519 tested, 20 have been positive. Five are travel-related, four are community spread, nine are due to close contact, and two are under investigation. Sixteen of these cases have recovered, two are self-isolating, one is in the hospital, and one person has passed away. All twenty cases are within Lincoln County.&nbsp;

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

In an effort to increase testing within our district, The National Guard assisted by WCDHD will collect 50 more samples next week. The testing will be prioritized according to individuals who are symptomatic and those in high-risk settings. If you are experiencing signs and symptoms or are within a high-risk setting, please contact the health department to schedule testing. 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&nbsp;

● 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 

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.&nbsp;One is a woman in her 50s, and the other is a man in his 50s. Both individuals are self-isolating at home.&nbsp;To date, we have tested 519 individuals in Lincoln County for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Of the 519 tested, 20 have been positive. Five are travel-related, four are community spread, nine are due to close contact, and two are under investigation. Sixteen of these cases have recovered, two are self-isolating, one is in the hospital, and one person has passed away. All twenty cases are within Lincoln County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587850042776.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stay informed of new cases by visiting our website at https://wcdhd.org/ (information will be updated daily 5:45 PM).&nbsp;In an effort to increase testing within our district, The National Guard assisted by WCDHD will collect 50 more samples next week. The testing will be prioritized according to individuals who are symptomatic and those in high-risk settings. If you are experiencing signs and symptoms or are within a high-risk setting, please contact the health department to schedule testing. 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&nbsp;● 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 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

2 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Lincoln County, total positive cases now 20

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The state of Nebraska and some cities and counties are getting a combined $6.4 million to address public safety issues during the coronavirus outbreak.

<a href="https://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/health/nebraska-selected-cities-and-counties-get-6-million-to-address-covid-19-public-safety-issues/article_48d1676a-bf66-5d40-918f-e2b9d987e84f.html" target="_blank">The Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;reports that the Nebraska Crime Commission received a $4.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.

Meanwhile, another $2.1 million was allocated to local jurisdictions, including Omaha, which is getting $1.15 million. In addition, Lincoln received about $429,000, Grand Island received about $85,500, Sarpy County received $58,000 and Bellevue received $35,800.

Officials say jurisdictions can use the money for things such as hiring workers, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates' medical needs.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The state of Nebraska and some cities and counties are getting a combined $6.4 million to address public safety issues during the coronavirus outbreak.<a href="https://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/health/nebraska-selected-cities-and-counties-get-6-million-to-address-covid-19-public-safety-issues/article_48d1676a-bf66-5d40-918f-e2b9d987e84f.html" target="_blank">The Omaha World-Herald</a>&nbsp;reports that the Nebraska Crime Commission received a $4.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.Meanwhile, another $2.1 million was allocated to local jurisdictions, including Omaha, which is getting $1.15 million. In addition, Lincoln received about $429,000, Grand Island received about $85,500, Sarpy County received $58,000 and Bellevue received $35,800.Officials say jurisdictions can use the money for things such as hiring workers, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates' medical needs.

Federal funds to aid public safety in Nebraska

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Business owners in Nebraska are starting to plan their comeback, now that the governor has unveiled his plan to ease coronavirus restrictions.

Gov. Pete Ricketts said Friday that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a6f29bac43471481a2780cfc60116df" target="_blank">will relax restrictions in 59 counties,</a>&nbsp;including those in the Omaha area. The new orders, effective until May 31, allow restaurants to reopen their dining rooms but require them to keep crowds at or below half of their capacity. Dining parties will be limited to six people, buffets will remain closed and bars will have to keep their dining areas closed.

Ricketts' plan also allows barbershops, tattoo parlors, salons and massage therapists to reopen, though they must adhere to social distancing precautions.

Paul McCrae, owner of the Corner Kick Street Tacos and Tequila Cantina in Omaha, called the easing of restrictions a "life-saver," especially with Cinco de Mayo the day after the reopening date.

"That's a big day for us," McCrae told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/reopening-is-life-saver-to-some-omaha-businesses-but-others-worry-over-rise-in-coronavirus/article_964a26c7-3323-58eb-8652-d820dd13349b.html" target="_blank">Omaha World-Herald</a>.

But co-owners Kelsey Poulsen and Sarah Root of The Copper Pin Salon &amp; Spa haven't decided whether to open on May 4. About half of the 14-person staff don't yet feel safe to return, they told the newspaper.

"We're thinking about taking the hit financially and keeping it closed until we can figure out how to safely operate," said Poulsen.

Ricketts, a Republican, didn't order similar changes in the Lincoln area because that region's public health restrictions don't expire until May 6. The restrictions in the Omaha area were set to expire April 30.

The orders also don't apply to Hall, Dawson or Dakota counties, where cases have spiked at meatpacking plants.

Nebraska's online coronavirus tracking portal shows that the state has had 2,421 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 50 deaths from the disease. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Business owners in Nebraska are starting to plan their comeback, now that the governor has unveiled his plan to ease coronavirus restrictions.Gov. Pete Ricketts said Friday that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a6f29bac43471481a2780cfc60116df" target="_blank">will relax restrictions in 59 counties,</a>&nbsp;including those in the Omaha area. The new orders, effective until May 31, allow restaurants to reopen their dining rooms but require them to keep crowds at or below half of their capacity. Dining parties will be limited to six people, buffets will remain closed and bars will have to keep their dining areas closed.Ricketts' plan also allows barbershops, tattoo parlors, salons and massage therapists to reopen, though they must adhere to social distancing precautions.Paul McCrae, owner of the Corner Kick Street Tacos and Tequila Cantina in Omaha, called the easing of restrictions a "life-saver," especially with Cinco de Mayo the day after the reopening date."That's a big day for us," McCrae told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/local/reopening-is-life-saver-to-some-omaha-businesses-but-others-worry-over-rise-in-coronavirus/article_964a26c7-3323-58eb-8652-d820dd13349b.html" target="_blank">Omaha World-Herald</a>.But co-owners Kelsey Poulsen and Sarah Root of The Copper Pin Salon &amp; Spa haven't decided whether to open on May 4. About half of the 14-person staff don't yet feel safe to return, they told the newspaper."We're thinking about taking the hit financially and keeping it closed until we can figure out how to safely operate," said Poulsen.Ricketts, a Republican, didn't order similar changes in the Lincoln area because that region's public health restrictions don't expire until May 6. The restrictions in the Omaha area were set to expire April 30.The orders also don't apply to Hall, Dawson or Dakota counties, where cases have spiked at meatpacking plants.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.Nebraska's online coronavirus tracking portal shows that the state has had 2,421 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 50 deaths from the disease. The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.

Nebraska businesses prepare to reopen during pandemic

Unified Command confirms three new cases for COVID-19 in Scotts Bluff County. Two females, one in her 40s and one youth, and one male in his teens are all close contacts of a previously positive case. 

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

4 have recovered and are out of isolation

10 have recovered and are out of isolation

12 have recovered and are out of isolation

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

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

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

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

Stay in touch with friends and loved ones

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

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

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

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

By PPHDUnified Command confirms three new cases for COVID-19 in Scotts Bluff County. Two females, one in her 40s and one youth, and one male in his teens are all close contacts of a previously positive case. The investigation is complete. Close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. March 2-April 24, 2020Positive: 43Recovered: 26Box Butte County: 1 caseCheyenne County: 5 cases4 have recovered and are out of isolationKimball County: 10 Cases10 have recovered and are out of isolationMorrill County: 1 CaseScotts Bluff County: 26 Cases12 have recovered and are out of isolationAll Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;Stay Home Stay home whenever possible. Avoid gathering in any groups.Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;Stay HealthyKeep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.Wash your handsStay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.Stay ConnectedStay in touch with friends and loved onesCheck in on people who may be alone or need help.Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. &nbsp;Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

3 new cases in Scotts Bluff Co. brings Panhandle total positives to 43

LINCOLN (DHHS) –&nbsp;Three new COVID-19 related deaths were reported Friday.

Two deaths were in Hall County, a man in his 30s and a woman in her 70s.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>

A third death occurred in Madison County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/elvphd/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/elvphd/&nbsp;</a>

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 50, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Today's state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 2,421. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

LINCOLN (DHHS) –&nbsp;Three new COVID-19 related deaths were reported Friday.Two deaths were in Hall County, a man in his 30s and a woman in her 70s.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/cdhd.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>A third death occurred in Madison County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/elvphd/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/elvphd/&nbsp;</a>Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 50, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Today's state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 2,421. Nebraska's COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">TestNebraska&nbsp;</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.testnebraska.com/" target="_blank">https://www.testnebraska.com/&nbsp;</a>DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid19" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.###

Officials report 3 new COVID-19 related deaths in Nebraska Friday

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Terri Gaedke, of Ansley, has been named Business Student of the Month for April at North Platte Community College.

A non-traditional student, Gaedke graduated from Anselmo-Merna High School in 1988.

She and her husband, Michael, own Ash Canyon Creations, through which they make and sell handcrafted soap and other body products.

Terri also works full-time at Becton Dickinson in Broken Bow. The company offered her online classes, which she is taking through NPCC while also raising her son and taking care of her family. Terri is currently studying business office technology with a medical emphasis.

“Everyone at NPCC that I have had the opportunity to be involved with has been so friendly and helpful,” Terri said. “When I first started, the online study atmosphere was all new to me, and I had so many questions. I was always able to receive the help that I needed.”

Terri said she has found the experience to be rewarding.

“I have grown on this journey, and I have learned so much,” Terri said. “I appreciate the hard work that all of the instructors do every day to help us achieve our goals. Something that has come out of my everyday routine is that my son sees how hard I work and how important it is to set goals and reach them no matter what obstacles are in your way.”

Angie Chittick, business and office technology instructor, nominated Terri for the student of the month recognition. She said Terri exemplifies the qualities and character that make her very deserving of the honor.

“Terri is insightful, thoughtful and respectful,” Chittick said. “She is a diligent and hard worker. Although her life is full of commitments from family, work and classes, she never complains. Terri always has a positive attitude and puts in the extra mile and dedication to excel. She is amazing to have in class and will succeed in anything she sets her mind to accomplish.”

Terri’s future plans include transferring to Bellevue University and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business management and leadership. She also wants to continue her employment with Becton Dickinson and use what she has learned to help people live healthy lives every day.&nbsp;

When not working or studying, Terri enjoys fishing, camping and watching action-packed movies with her husband and son.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587771685970.png" alt="Terri Gaedke" />
 <figcaption>Terri Gaedke</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Terri Gaedke, of Ansley, has been named Business Student of the Month for April at North Platte Community College.A non-traditional student, Gaedke graduated from Anselmo-Merna High School in 1988.She and her husband, Michael, own Ash Canyon Creations, through which they make and sell handcrafted soap and other body products.Terri also works full-time at Becton Dickinson in Broken Bow. The company offered her online classes, which she is taking through NPCC while also raising her son and taking care of her family. Terri is currently studying business office technology with a medical emphasis.“Everyone at NPCC that I have had the opportunity to be involved with has been so friendly and helpful,” Terri said. “When I first started, the online study atmosphere was all new to me, and I had so many questions. I was always able to receive the help that I needed.”Terri said she has found the experience to be rewarding.“I have grown on this journey, and I have learned so much,” Terri said. “I appreciate the hard work that all of the instructors do every day to help us achieve our goals. Something that has come out of my everyday routine is that my son sees how hard I work and how important it is to set goals and reach them no matter what obstacles are in your way.”Angie Chittick, business and office technology instructor, nominated Terri for the student of the month recognition. She said Terri exemplifies the qualities and character that make her very deserving of the honor.“Terri is insightful, thoughtful and respectful,” Chittick said. “She is a diligent and hard worker. Although her life is full of commitments from family, work and classes, she never complains. Terri always has a positive attitude and puts in the extra mile and dedication to excel. She is amazing to have in class and will succeed in anything she sets her mind to accomplish.”Terri’s future plans include transferring to Bellevue University and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business management and leadership. She also wants to continue her employment with Becton Dickinson and use what she has learned to help people live healthy lives every day.&nbsp;When not working or studying, Terri enjoys fishing, camping and watching action-packed movies with her husband and son.

Gaedke named NPCC Business Student of the Month

LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts announced upcoming changes that ease some restrictions on social gatherings and business operations in Nebraska as of May 4, 2020. &nbsp;

Maintaining the integrity of Nebraska’s health care system has been the State’s top consideration when making decisions about public health measures.&nbsp; Nebraska continues to have ample capacity to care for the state’s residents.&nbsp; As of April 24th, 48% of hospital beds, 42% of ICU beds, and 74% of ventilators are available for use statewide.&nbsp;

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) CEO Dannette R. Smith joined the Governor at today’s press briefing.&nbsp; She spoke about the State’s efforts to expand contact tracing to better track the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

Don Arp, Jr., Executive Director of the Nebraska Crime Commission, also participated in this afternoon’s media event.&nbsp; He shared news&nbsp;that&nbsp;the Crime Commission has received $4.3 million in a Department of Justice (DOJ) grant&nbsp;to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.

Gov. Ricketts: Directed Health Measures (DHMs)

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The current State DHM for Douglas County will be extended through May 3, 2020. &nbsp;The local DHMs from the Sarpy/Cass Health Department and the Douglas County Health Department will also be extended through May 3rd.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The statewide closure until April 30th&nbsp;of all beauty/nail salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, gentleman’s clubs, bottle clubs, indoor movie theatres, indoor theatres, and tattoo parlors/studios is extended to May 3rd.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That date will be extended further for some areas.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of May 4, 2020 the State will have 19 separate DHMs, one for each local health department (LHD).&nbsp; They will be effective through May 31, 2020.

o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact information for the state’s LHDs, along with a map of the LHDs, is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Local-Health-Departments.aspx" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Local-Health-Departments.aspx</a>.

Gov. Ricketts: Statewide DHM Changes

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Places of worship&nbsp;(churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, etc.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587769753998.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium, DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith (standing, second from left,&nbsp;and Crime Commission Executive Director Don Arp, Jr. (standing, far left) at today’s press event." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium, DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith (standing, second from left,&nbsp;and Crime Commission Executive Director Don Arp, Jr. (standing, far left) at today’s press event.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts announced upcoming changes that ease some restrictions on social gatherings and business operations in Nebraska as of May 4, 2020. &nbsp;Maintaining the integrity of Nebraska’s health care system has been the State’s top consideration when making decisions about public health measures.&nbsp; Nebraska continues to have ample capacity to care for the state’s residents.&nbsp; As of April 24th, 48% of hospital beds, 42% of ICU beds, and 74% of ventilators are available for use statewide.&nbsp;Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) CEO Dannette R. Smith joined the Governor at today’s press briefing.&nbsp; She spoke about the State’s efforts to expand contact tracing to better track the spread of the virus.&nbsp;Don Arp, Jr., Executive Director of the Nebraska Crime Commission, also participated in this afternoon’s media event.&nbsp; He shared news&nbsp;that&nbsp;the Crime Commission has received $4.3 million in a Department of Justice (DOJ) grant&nbsp;to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587820786742.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gov. Ricketts: Directed Health Measures (DHMs)·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The current State DHM for Douglas County will be extended through May 3, 2020. &nbsp;The local DHMs from the Sarpy/Cass Health Department and the Douglas County Health Department will also be extended through May 3rd.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The statewide closure until April 30th&nbsp;of all beauty/nail salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, gentleman’s clubs, bottle clubs, indoor movie theatres, indoor theatres, and tattoo parlors/studios is extended to May 3rd.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That date will be extended further for some areas.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of May 4, 2020 the State will have 19 separate DHMs, one for each local health department (LHD).&nbsp; They will be effective through May 31, 2020.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact information for the state’s LHDs, along with a map of the LHDs, is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Local-Health-Departments.aspx" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Local-Health-Departments.aspx</a>.Gov. Ricketts: Statewide DHM Changes·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Places of worship&nbsp;(churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, etc.)o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Places of worship will have relaxed DHM requirements statewide beginning on May 4th.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They will need to ensure six feet of separation between different household units.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It will not be permissible to pass items among worshippers.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A guidance document will be provided with the new DHMs to give instructions to faith communities on how to comply with the updated health measures.Gov. Ricketts: Regional DHM Changes•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regional updates will apply to all of the following LHDs as of May 4, 2020:o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Douglas County Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sarpy/Cass Dept. of Healtho&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;East Central District Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Four Corners Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loup Basin Public Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;North Central District Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Northeast Nebraska Public Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Panhandle Public Health Districto&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Southeast District Health Dept.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Southwest Nebraska Public Health District•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salonso&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of May 4th, beauty/nail salons, barber shops, massage therapy services, and tattoo parlors/studios in the above LHDs will be permitted to open. &nbsp;These establishments will be added to the list of gatherings subject to the 10-person rule.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The new DHM will&nbsp;require&nbsp;both workers and patrons of these establishments to wear masks.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For districts other than those listed above, these establishments will remain closed past May 3rd.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurantso&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of May 4th, restaurants will be allowed to serve dine-in customers if all of the following conditions are met:§&nbsp;&nbsp;The restaurant limits seating to 50% of the rated occupancy maximum at all times.§&nbsp;&nbsp;The restaurant seats parties at least six feet apart.§&nbsp;&nbsp;All dining parties are restricted to no more than six persons (groups larger than six will need to sit at separate tables).§&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. &nbsp;No customer self-service will be allowed.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Bar seating is not permitted.§&nbsp;&nbsp;Patrons may only consume alcohol on the premises if also consuming a meal.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars that do not serve food will remain limited to carry-out sales and delivery only.o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For districts other than those listed above, restaurants will remain limited to delivery, drive-thru, or carryout past May 3rd.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Childcare Facilitieso&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of May 4th, childcare facilities will be permitted to have up to 15 kids per room/space.§&nbsp;&nbsp;All other state provisions, statutes, and regulations (including child-to-staff ratios) still apply.§&nbsp;&nbsp;For districts other than those listed above, childcares will remain restricted to 10 children per room/space.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other Establishmentso&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bars, gentlemen’s clubs, bottle clubs, indoor movie theaters, indoor theaters/playhouses will remain closed statewide until May 31st, though the State may revise the DHM prior to that date.Gov. Ricketts: Social Distancing•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leading up to these changes to our DHMs, I want to emphasize how important it is to continue following our Six Rules during the rest of the “21 Days to Stay Home and Stay Healthy” campaign.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I also want to remind people that regardless of these changes we will still be doing some level of social distancing (at least the six foot rule) until we have a vaccine.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Just because we are able to relax some measures, does not mean life returns to normal.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We will continue to protect our healthcare system so that Nebraskans can receive the treatment they need if they become infected with coronavirus.CEO Smith: Contact Tracing•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Test Nebraska plan has three steps: assess, test, and track.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, I want to talk about the final step.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact tracing makes sure we’re being proactive in monitoring and supporting individuals with potential infection from COVID-19.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We want to immediately assess those individuals and track their contacts so that we can quarantine those persons at high risk of exposure.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts challenged our department to mobilize 1,000 people to help with contact tracing.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the next 30-60 days, we will deploy 325 teammates from DHHS to assist with contact tracing.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;225 of these teammates are being trained by our epidemiologists from April 27th&nbsp;through May 5th.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As they track the spread of the virus, these teammates will gather real-time data to guide our public health strategies.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our teammates will track demographics, on-site symptoms, and close contacts of those who are ill.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our teams will work in the days and evenings to reach all Nebraskans—particularly those still working.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In our conversations, we’re going to be particularly sensitive to cultural differences and linguistic needs.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our DHHS teams will be embedded within local health departments (LHDs).•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We see our job as supporting LHDs in their vital role of keeping citizens safe.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As we’re interviewing Nebraskans and tracing contacts, we’ll also be educating Nebraskans on best practices to keep their families and communities safe.Executive Director Arp: Grant Awarded to Crime Commission•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Of the $4.3 million DOJ grant, the Crime Commission will grant over $3.9 million to applicants.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Eligible entities include state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies, prisons, jails, and criminal justice programs.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These entities have considerable latitude in the use of these funds for dealing with COVID-19.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, IT needs, and distributing resources to hard-hit areas.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To avoid duplicating the efforts of other agencies such as DHHS and the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, the Crime Commission will not fund the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE).•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As with many federal grants, these funds are reimbursement-based.&nbsp; Agencies will have to expend their own money up front and then submit proof of purchase.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The application process is live at [ncc.nebraska.gov/grant-apps]ncc.nebraska.gov/grant-apps.&nbsp; We’re accepting applications on a rolling basis.Gov. Ricketts: Payroll Protection Program (PPP)•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, Congress passed a bill, which the President signed into law, to allocate new funds for the Payroll Protection Program.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have already applied for a PPP loan and been accepted by your lender, you do not need to apply again.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have not applied through your lender for PPP already, do it immediately.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These funds will go quickly.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska was ahead of the curve on the first round of funding.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We encourage Nebraskans who have not already applied to reach out to their community bank today.Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/s79v8ekzcyzdaio/Press%20Conf%204.24.2020.mp4?dl=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.