OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Some massive meat processing plants have closed at least temporarily because their workers were sickened by the new coronavirus, raising concerns that there could soon be shortages of beef, pork and poultry in supermarkets.

The meat supply chain is especially vulnerable since processing is increasingly done at massive plants that butcher tens of thousands of animals daily, so the closure of even a few big ones can quickly be felt by customers. For instance, a Smithfield Foods plant that was forced to close in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, after nearly 300 of the plant's 3,700 workers tested positive for the virus produces roughly 5% of the U.S. pork supply each day.

In addition, conditions at plants can be ripe for exploitation by the virus: Workers stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the line and crowd into locker rooms to change their clothes before and after shifts.

The virus has infected hundreds of workers at plants in Colorado, South Dakota, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Mississippi and elsewhere. The capacity of plants that remain open has also been hurt by workers who are sick or staying home because of fears of illness - though it's not clear by how much.

While company owners promise to deep clean their plants and resume operations as quickly as possible, it's difficult to keep workers healthy given how closely they work together.

"There is no social distance that is possible when you are either working on the slaughter line or in a processing assignment," said Paula Schelling, acting chairwoman for the food inspectors union in the American Federation of Government Employees.

The reduced production so far has been offset by the significant amount of meat that was in cold storage, said Glynn Tonsor, an agricultural economist at Kansas State University. Producers are also working to shift meat that would have gone to now-closed restaurants over to grocery stores.

Whether shoppers start to see more empty shelves or higher prices will depend on how many plants close and for how long.

At least half a dozen plants have closed temporarily, but that's across the pork, chicken and beef sectors, and Tonsor said the industry can manage for now.

"You could shut multiple plants down for a day or two, and we've got wiggle room to handle that," said Tonsor. "But if you took four or five of those big plants ... and they had to be down for two weeks, then you've got a game changer."

Still, the reduced meat processing capacity is already driving down the prices farmers and ranchers receive for cattle, hogs and chickens.

"It's like people on an escalator. Stopping the pork chain at the top of an escalator is just going to cause all sorts of tragedy and disaster all the way back up the system," said Dermot Hayes, professor of economics and finance at Iowa State University.

Farmers are being forced to kill baby pigs because the space in the barns where they were supposed to go is still filled by the pigs that should have been slaughtered last week, Hayes said. The meat from those baby pigs cannot be sold.

That has driven prices for those feeder pigs - which generally are fattened over the course of six months - to zero, Hayes said. The value of those big enough for the market is down about 50% from a month ago. The value of the meat is down about 30%.

Lower prices for producers could mean higher prices for consumers eventually, if production falls off, according to Chad Hart, an agricultural economist at Iowa State University.

Tyson, Cargill and other major meat processing companies say they are adopting several measures: taking the temperature of everyone entering plants, adding clear plastic shields between work stations and erecting tents to allow workers to spread out more at lunch. But critics worry that workers too often continue working in close proximity and that measures are being adopted piecemeal.

The League of United Latin American Citizens recently asked federal regulators to establish uniform rules after a number of immigrant workers complained to the rights group about tight quarters.

The new coronavirus is highly contagious. For most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, but for some, especially older adults and people with health problems, it can cause more severe illness and lead to death.

Federal health officials do not consider COVID-19 to be a food safety concern, but they recommend that workers maintain a safe distance from one another.

But Lily Ordaz Prado, who recently quit her job at the Smithfield plant in Sioux Falls, said she didn't see those recommendations being put into practice, noting the crowded conditions in locker rooms and on assembly lines. The 30-year-old called her decision to leave "the best decision that I have ever made."

Smithfield officials have defended operations in Sioux Falls and said the company is taking "the utmost precautions and actions to ensure the health and wellbeing of our employees."

Meanwhile, Hector Gonzalez, senior vice president of human resources at Tyson Foods, said the food giant is making important changes for its roughly 140,000 workers, such as slowing down production lines and adding plastic barriers between work stations.

Other meat companies say they have stepped up the cleaning of their plants and prohibited visitors. Several major meat companies are also paying workers more for continuing to work during the pandemic. For instance, JBS USA is paying workers a one-time $600 bonus. Cargill has temporarily boosted pay by $2 an hour.

Most major meatpacking companies also have relaxed attendance and sick leave policies to ensure that workers can receive at least some pay if they have to stay at home after testing positive or coming in contact with someone who has.

"Most of the employers that we deal with right now are really making a solid attempt to try and fix stuff," said Marc Perrone, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers union. "We're just working as hard as we can to protect as many people as possible right now and make sure that we keep the food supply open."

By JOSH FUNK-Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Some massive meat processing plants have closed at least temporarily because their workers were sickened by the new coronavirus, raising concerns that there could soon be shortages of beef, pork and poultry in supermarkets.The meat supply chain is especially vulnerable since processing is increasingly done at massive plants that butcher tens of thousands of animals daily, so the closure of even a few big ones can quickly be felt by customers. For instance, a Smithfield Foods plant that was forced to close in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, after nearly 300 of the plant's 3,700 workers tested positive for the virus produces roughly 5% of the U.S. pork supply each day.In addition, conditions at plants can be ripe for exploitation by the virus: Workers stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the line and crowd into locker rooms to change their clothes before and after shifts.The virus has infected hundreds of workers at plants in Colorado, South Dakota, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Mississippi and elsewhere. The capacity of plants that remain open has also been hurt by workers who are sick or staying home because of fears of illness - though it's not clear by how much.While company owners promise to deep clean their plants and resume operations as quickly as possible, it's difficult to keep workers healthy given how closely they work together."There is no social distance that is possible when you are either working on the slaughter line or in a processing assignment," said Paula Schelling, acting chairwoman for the food inspectors union in the American Federation of Government Employees.The reduced production so far has been offset by the significant amount of meat that was in cold storage, said Glynn Tonsor, an agricultural economist at Kansas State University. Producers are also working to shift meat that would have gone to now-closed restaurants over to grocery stores.Whether shoppers start to see more empty shelves or higher prices will depend on how many plants close and for how long.At least half a dozen plants have closed temporarily, but that's across the pork, chicken and beef sectors, and Tonsor said the industry can manage for now."You could shut multiple plants down for a day or two, and we've got wiggle room to handle that," said Tonsor. "But if you took four or five of those big plants ... and they had to be down for two weeks, then you've got a game changer."Still, the reduced meat processing capacity is already driving down the prices farmers and ranchers receive for cattle, hogs and chickens."It's like people on an escalator. Stopping the pork chain at the top of an escalator is just going to cause all sorts of tragedy and disaster all the way back up the system," said Dermot Hayes, professor of economics and finance at Iowa State University.Farmers are being forced to kill baby pigs because the space in the barns where they were supposed to go is still filled by the pigs that should have been slaughtered last week, Hayes said. The meat from those baby pigs cannot be sold.That has driven prices for those feeder pigs - which generally are fattened over the course of six months - to zero, Hayes said. The value of those big enough for the market is down about 50% from a month ago. The value of the meat is down about 30%.Lower prices for producers could mean higher prices for consumers eventually, if production falls off, according to Chad Hart, an agricultural economist at Iowa State University.Tyson, Cargill and other major meat processing companies say they are adopting several measures: taking the temperature of everyone entering plants, adding clear plastic shields between work stations and erecting tents to allow workers to spread out more at lunch. But critics worry that workers too often continue working in close proximity and that measures are being adopted piecemeal.The League of United Latin American Citizens recently asked federal regulators to establish uniform rules after a number of immigrant workers complained to the rights group about tight quarters.The new coronavirus is highly contagious. For most people, it causes mild or moderate symptoms, but for some, especially older adults and people with health problems, it can cause more severe illness and lead to death.Federal health officials do not consider COVID-19 to be a food safety concern, but they recommend that workers maintain a safe distance from one another.But Lily Ordaz Prado, who recently quit her job at the Smithfield plant in Sioux Falls, said she didn't see those recommendations being put into practice, noting the crowded conditions in locker rooms and on assembly lines. The 30-year-old called her decision to leave "the best decision that I have ever made."Smithfield officials have defended operations in Sioux Falls and said the company is taking "the utmost precautions and actions to ensure the health and wellbeing of our employees."Meanwhile, Hector Gonzalez, senior vice president of human resources at Tyson Foods, said the food giant is making important changes for its roughly 140,000 workers, such as slowing down production lines and adding plastic barriers between work stations.Other meat companies say they have stepped up the cleaning of their plants and prohibited visitors. Several major meat companies are also paying workers more for continuing to work during the pandemic. For instance, JBS USA is paying workers a one-time $600 bonus. Cargill has temporarily boosted pay by $2 an hour.Most major meatpacking companies also have relaxed attendance and sick leave policies to ensure that workers can receive at least some pay if they have to stay at home after testing positive or coming in contact with someone who has."Most of the employers that we deal with right now are really making a solid attempt to try and fix stuff," said Marc Perrone, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers union. "We're just working as hard as we can to protect as many people as possible right now and make sure that we keep the food supply open."

Virus closes some meat plants, raising fears of shortages

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Monday rejected a call from two state lawmakers to resume normal school and business activities in Nebraska right away, saying that could lead to a surge in new cases that might overwhelm the state's hospitals.

Ricketts said he will stick with the state's current plan, which includes statewide school closures and restrictions on businesses and social gatherings until at least April 30.

His remarks at his daily coronavirus press briefing came in response to a question about a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hastingstribune.com/sens-halloran-and-erdman/article_af91cc7c-7cee-11ea-ae24-2313231ca9bb.html" target="_blank">newspaper column</a>&nbsp;by state Sens. Steve Halloran and Steve Erdman, both conservatives who normally agree with the Republican governor.

The senators argued that shelter-in-place orders across the U.S. have devastated the economy, put students at a disadvantage and "made the cure worse than the disease."

The senators contend that lifting the restrictions and allowing healthy people to contract the virus would create a "herd immunity" that would protect society as a whole. Epidemiologists and other public health experts say that approach would lead to a surge in coronavirus cases and deaths, and social distancing is the only way to protect people who are most at risk.

"If Nebraska continues to operate within its current mitigation policy, civil unrest will eventually ensue," wrote the senators, who are both in their 70s, a high-risk age group. "All life is sacred and valuable, but Nebraskans also need to re-open their businesses, go back to work, go back to school and get the elective surgeries they need."

Ricketts said he agrees with the senators "100%" about the need to reopen schools and businesses as soon as possible, but he warned that doing so too soon could lead to a spike in cases.

"The big key, again, is what we have said all along, which is about being sure we don't overwhelm the health care system," he said. "That's what we're working to manage to. We've got to stay home and stay healthy until the end of April."

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

The governor made his comments as a local public health district reported 10 new cases among workers at a beef processing facility in Hastings, in Halloran's district.

Ricketts also issued a call to help local food banks, which face increasing demand as more people lose jobs and food shortages as more grocery stores sell out of key products.

"It's rough right now, and we anticipate it's going to get rougher over the coming months," said Scott Young, executive director of the Food Bank of Lincoln.

Meanwhile, police in Omaha handed out 20 citations for trespassing in city parks over the weekend, just days after the mayor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d7e9a8585de51d73d06204de18ef05f3" target="_blank">ordered</a>&nbsp;the parks closed amid complaints they were too crowded.

The tickets were issued Saturday and Sunday, with the largest share - eight citations - being handed out in northeastern Omaha's Hummel Park, police said. Two people also were cited on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge that links Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa, over the Missouri River.

The others were handed out in Adams, Levi Carter, Miller, Memorial and Robert's parks, police said.

By GRANT SCHULTE-The Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Monday rejected a call from two state lawmakers to resume normal school and business activities in Nebraska right away, saying that could lead to a surge in new cases that might overwhelm the state's hospitals.Ricketts said he will stick with the state's current plan, which includes statewide school closures and restrictions on businesses and social gatherings until at least April 30.His remarks at his daily coronavirus press briefing came in response to a question about a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hastingstribune.com/sens-halloran-and-erdman/article_af91cc7c-7cee-11ea-ae24-2313231ca9bb.html" target="_blank">newspaper column</a>&nbsp;by state Sens. Steve Halloran and Steve Erdman, both conservatives who normally agree with the Republican governor.The senators argued that shelter-in-place orders across the U.S. have devastated the economy, put students at a disadvantage and "made the cure worse than the disease."The senators contend that lifting the restrictions and allowing healthy people to contract the virus would create a "herd immunity" that would protect society as a whole. Epidemiologists and other public health experts say that approach would lead to a surge in coronavirus cases and deaths, and social distancing is the only way to protect people who are most at risk."If Nebraska continues to operate within its current mitigation policy, civil unrest will eventually ensue," wrote the senators, who are both in their 70s, a high-risk age group. "All life is sacred and valuable, but Nebraskans also need to re-open their businesses, go back to work, go back to school and get the elective surgeries they need."Ricketts said he agrees with the senators "100%" about the need to reopen schools and businesses as soon as possible, but he warned that doing so too soon could lead to a spike in cases."The big key, again, is what we have said all along, which is about being sure we don't overwhelm the health care system," he said. "That's what we're working to manage to. We've got to stay home and stay healthy until the end of April."For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.The governor made his comments as a local public health district reported 10 new cases among workers at a beef processing facility in Hastings, in Halloran's district.Ricketts also issued a call to help local food banks, which face increasing demand as more people lose jobs and food shortages as more grocery stores sell out of key products."It's rough right now, and we anticipate it's going to get rougher over the coming months," said Scott Young, executive director of the Food Bank of Lincoln.Meanwhile, police in Omaha handed out 20 citations for trespassing in city parks over the weekend, just days after the mayor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d7e9a8585de51d73d06204de18ef05f3" target="_blank">ordered</a>&nbsp;the parks closed amid complaints they were too crowded.The tickets were issued Saturday and Sunday, with the largest share - eight citations - being handed out in northeastern Omaha's Hummel Park, police said. Two people also were cited on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge that links Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa, over the Missouri River.The others were handed out in Adams, Levi Carter, Miller, Memorial and Robert's parks, police said.

Ricketts rejects senators' call to resume normal activities

LINCOLN –&nbsp;This afternoon, Governor Pete Ricketts urged Nebraskans to “Stay Home and Stay Healthy” during his daily briefing on the State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; He also reviewed the State’s revisions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, which have made it easier for Nebraskans in need to access food.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Scott Young, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Lincoln, and Leia Noel, President of Foodnet in Lincoln, joined the Governor at today’s press event.&nbsp; They talked about their organizations’ efforts to provide food security to Nebraskans affected by the COVID-19 emergency.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts: 21 Days to Keep Nebraska Healthy

Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fejq2m9155afjevp%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.13.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646584092&amp;sdata=TXwezQQJ8DtB7Zc5uYsSdqzoFL1HUH43cjy8gIa%2FLb0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586818187163.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium, Foodnet President Leia Noel (far left); and Food Bank of Lincoln Executive Director Scott Young (second from left) at today’s press briefing." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium, Foodnet President Leia Noel (far left); and Food Bank of Lincoln Executive Director Scott Young (second from left) at today’s press briefing.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN –&nbsp;This afternoon, Governor Pete Ricketts urged Nebraskans to “Stay Home and Stay Healthy” during his daily briefing on the State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; He also reviewed the State’s revisions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, which have made it easier for Nebraskans in need to access food.&nbsp; &nbsp;Scott Young, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Lincoln, and Leia Noel, President of Foodnet in Lincoln, joined the Governor at today’s press event.&nbsp; They talked about their organizations’ efforts to provide food security to Nebraskans affected by the COVID-19 emergency.&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts: 21 Days to Keep Nebraska Healthy<ol>
 <li>We are now on Day 4 of the “21 Days to Stay Home and Stay Healthy” campaign.</li><li>I want to remind people of our Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.Stay home. &nbsp;No non-essential errands and no social gatherings. &nbsp;Respect the ten-person limit.Socially distance your work. &nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.Shop alone and only shop once a week. &nbsp;Do not take family with you.Help kids follow social distancing. &nbsp;Play at home. &nbsp;No group sports. &nbsp;And no playgrounds.Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. &nbsp;Do not visit long-term care facilities.Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.</li><li>Stay home. &nbsp;No non-essential errands and no social gatherings. &nbsp;Respect the ten-person limit.</li><li>Socially distance your work. &nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.</li><li>Shop alone and only shop once a week. &nbsp;Do not take family with you.</li><li>Help kids follow social distancing. &nbsp;Play at home. &nbsp;No group sports. &nbsp;And no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. &nbsp;Do not visit long-term care facilities.</li><li>Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: Food Security<ol>
 <li>Nebraska is the Beef State, and we help feed the world.</li><li>During this time, we are taking steps to make sure our families have continued access to food.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Last week, we announced changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Among other things…We’ve extended recertification periods by six months during the months of April and May.&nbsp;We’re providing emergency allotments to SNAP recipients, up to the amount of maximum allotment per household, in April and May.We’ve also eased certain requirements for eligibility.</li><li>We’ve extended recertification periods by six months during the months of April and May.&nbsp;</li><li>We’re providing emergency allotments to SNAP recipients, up to the amount of maximum allotment per household, in April and May.</li><li>We’ve also eased certain requirements for eligibility.</li><li>SNAP is just a part of how families in need access food.&nbsp;</li><li>Food banks also play an important role in serving vulnerable communities.&nbsp;</li><li>At this time, our food banks need the generosity and support of Nebraskans more than ever.</li><li>Let’s make sure our families can continue to access the food they need during this pandemic.</li><li>I urge Nebraskans to step up and help their local food bank.You can find a directory of food banks at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffoodpantries.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646564180&amp;sdata=PU0UFHuC8Hf6v9LSqGnR%2F%2BNjgF8Aht3MM7ccLeq0HTs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">foodpantries.org</a>.</li><li>You can find a directory of food banks at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffoodpantries.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646564180&amp;sdata=PU0UFHuC8Hf6v9LSqGnR%2F%2BNjgF8Aht3MM7ccLeq0HTs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">foodpantries.org</a>.</li>
 </ol>Scott Young: Food Bank of Lincoln<ol>
 <li>We serve every county in the state of Nebraska.</li><li>Normally, half of our distribution points are schools. &nbsp;To continue to serve Nebraskans, we’re adapting our operations in keeping with health guidelines.</li><li>During the pandemic, our network—Feeding America—anticipates a 45% increase in food insecure people during the next six months.</li><li>In Nebraska, we have 223,000 food insecure people.&nbsp; A 45% increase would represent roughly 100,000 additional people struggling with hunger.</li><li>We’re seeing increased need in both rural and urban communities.</li><li>In Grand Island last weekend, Food Bank for the Heartland had over 1,000 cars show up to its drive-thru distribution.</li><li>We’ve seen great spikes in our rural settings where we pass out pre-packed bags.&nbsp; At these sites, we use low-contact or no-contact methods to protect our clients and staff from infection.</li><li>One of our challenges now is that resources are going down as need is going up.</li><li>Grocery stores, where we typically pick up product, are making use of everything they have to meet demand.</li><li>The food we order now may take 4-6 weeks to reach our food bank.</li><li>We have concerns now, and in the months ahead, about how the pandemic may impact food security in Nebraska.</li><li>The best way to help is to make a donation at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Flincolnfoodbank.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646574116&amp;sdata=tTPcBtOAoL1661ARd1%2FHOTkzvAGR3TDJXCnrEpzjfU0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">lincolnfoodbank.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffoodbankheartland.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646574116&amp;sdata=PSqUanL9FkG%2B87ytxVDjd43LOrtpnMvWRjxP7uSobCI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">foodbankheartland.org</a>.&nbsp; Nebraskans can also find out where food will be distributed by visiting these websites.</li><li>We are going to buy hundreds of thousands of dollars of food in the next 60-90 days to keep up with this increased need.</li><li>A lot of the folks who’ve lost employment will be in need of food bank provisions. &nbsp;Thank you to everyone who is donating to help them.</li>
 </ol>Leia Noel: Foodnet<ol>
 <li>Foodnet operates in Lincoln and the surrounding communities.</li><li>Foodnet receives food from grocery stores and other businesses, and our volunteers distribute it to those in need.</li><li>During a normal week, we pick up provisions at nearly 100 locations and serve 5,000 to 6,000 people.</li><li>In early March, we adjusted our operations to comply with health guidance from the Governor, our mayor, and the local health department.</li><li>We closed some of our usual locations at the request of our host sites.</li><li>We also saw a reduction in our retired volunteer base, as they are especially vulnerable to the virus.&nbsp; We fully supported their decision to stay home and stay safe.</li><li>We’ve adjusted to having fewer sites and a smaller number of volunteers.</li><li>We currently have sites open every day except Wednesday.</li><li>On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we have three sites open. &nbsp;This is helpful to the community since many food banks are not as accessible on the weekend.</li><li>We’ve switched to drive-thru locations to limit person-to-person contact.</li><li>A few sites still allow clients to come into their facilities to pick up food. &nbsp;These locations are strictly following COVID-19 social distancing guidelines.</li><li>We expect to serve more people in the weeks ahead as families experience job loss and food supplies need to be restocked.</li><li>Nebraskans can help by picking up and delivering food to neighbors, family, or friends who are homebound and in need.</li><li>Nebraskans can also volunteer to distribute food.&nbsp; Foodnet has volunteer openings at some locations.</li><li>Foodnet’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffoodnetlincoln.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646584092&amp;sdata=IizRUW1RZ3DE57HulwwD6e7CFfqeZorOJDqwbYR8ZcQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">foodnetlincoln.org</a>, has contact information and details about distribution sites.</li><li>Thanks to grocery stores and businesses for donating so that we can serve Nebraskans in need.</li>
 </ol>Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fejq2m9155afjevp%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.13.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cacee6a33a3aa45d42f3e08d7dffa5950%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637224138646584092&amp;sdata=TXwezQQJ8DtB7Zc5uYsSdqzoFL1HUH43cjy8gIa%2FLb0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts, food bank leaders discuss efforts to enhance food security in Nebraska

Nebraska had 871 confirmed coronavirus cases and 17 deaths as of Monday evening, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Nearly 10,500 people have tested negative. The number of new cases also declined to 59 on Monday, down from a sharp increase of 101 new cases on Sunday. On Saturday, the state had 58 new cases.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Monday rejected a call from two state lawmakers to resume normal school and business activities in Nebraska right away, saying that could lead to a surge in new cases that might overwhelm the state's hospitals.Ricketts said he will stick with the state's current plan, which includes statewide school closures and restrictions on businesses and social gatherings until at least April 30.His remarks at his daily coronavirus press briefing came in response to a question about a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hastingstribune.com/sens-halloran-and-erdman/article_af91cc7c-7cee-11ea-ae24-2313231ca9bb.html" target="_blank">newspaper column</a>&nbsp;by state Sens. Steve Halloran and Steve Erdman, both conservatives who normally agree with the Republican governor.The senators argued that shelter-in-place orders across the U.S. have devastated the economy, put students at a disadvantage and "made the cure worse than the disease."The senators contend that lifting the restrictions and allowing healthy people to contract the virus would create a "herd immunity" that would protect society as a whole. Epidemiologists and other public health experts say that approach would lead to a surge in coronavirus cases and deaths, and social distancing is the only way to protect people who are most at risk."If Nebraska continues to operate within its current mitigation policy, civil unrest will eventually ensue," wrote the senators, who are both in their 70s, a high-risk age group. "All life is sacred and valuable, but Nebraskans also need to re-open their businesses, go back to work, go back to school and get the elective surgeries they need."Ricketts said he agrees with the senators "100%" about the need to reopen schools and businesses as soon as possible, but he warned that doing so too soon could lead to a spike in cases."The big key, again, is what we have said all along, which is about being sure we don't overwhelm the health care system," he said. "That's what we're working to manage to. We've got to stay home and stay healthy until the end of April."Nebraska had 871 confirmed coronavirus cases and 17 deaths as of Monday evening, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Nearly 10,500 people have tested negative. The number of new cases also declined to 59 on Monday, down from a sharp increase of 101 new cases on Sunday. On Saturday, the state had 58 new cases.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.The governor made his comments as a local public health district reported 10 new cases among workers at a beef processing facility in Hastings, in Halloran's district.Ricketts also issued a call to help local food banks, which face increasing demand as more people lose jobs and food shortages as more grocery stores sell out of key products."It's rough right now, and we anticipate it's going to get rougher over the coming months," said Scott Young, executive director of the Food Bank of Lincoln.Meanwhile, police in Omaha handed out 20 citations for trespassing in city parks over the weekend, just days after the mayor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d7e9a8585de51d73d06204de18ef05f3" target="_blank">ordered</a>&nbsp;the parks closed amid complaints they were too crowded.The tickets were issued Saturday and Sunday, with the largest share - eight citations - being handed out in northeastern Omaha's Hummel Park, police said. Two people also were cited on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge that links Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa, over the Missouri River.The others were handed out in Adams, Levi Carter, Miller, Memorial and Robert's parks, police said.

🎥Public Health Command Center Live Update from North Platte

CHADRON, Neb. -- The walleye may be Nebraska’s most popular, albeit often hard-to-catch, game fish. It is known for not only having great-tasting fillets, but also for growing big and providing anglers a fishing challenge.

Despite its reputation for being hard to catch, at certain times of the year walleyes can be taken by both boat and bank anglers with average skills.

Joe Rydell, a fisheries biologist for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s northwest district, said we are in the midst of one time to target walleyes. In April, Nebraska’s walleyes are spawning, or getting ready to, so the population becomes concentrated in shallow water.

If you do not have success now, however, try it a little later.

“The best month to catch them in is probably going to be toward the end of May and into June, when these fish are coming off of spawning. They’ve had ample time to rest and, at that time of year, they’re really concentrating on feeding,” Rydell said.

Especially for anglers seeking big walleyes, fall also can be good fishing for the species.

As with most fish and game, knowing what those toothy walleyes want lends clues to when and where you will find them.

“They’re a predator fish. So, first of all, before you figure out what kind of habitat you’re going to search, you’ve got to figure out what they’re going to be eating in that water body,” Rydell said. “They’ll be hanging around that food source. In some lakes, that may entail a good rock bottom, or rock structures. In other lakes that are more vegetated, they may be along the weedline. In lakes that have a combination of both, it could be some woody debris or rock structures that are intermixed among those weed beds. At certain times of the year, even though they’re big fish, they may be concentrating on a bug hatch.”

Daryl Bauer, Game and Parks fisheries outreach manager, said a variety of artificial and live baits are effective.

“Casting jigs and crankbaits, still-fishing or drifting live bait rigs, and trolling crankbaits or live-bait rigs can all be successful techniques for catching walleyes from Nebraska waters,” Bauer said. “However, I would tell you that more walleyes have been caught from Nebraska waters drifting or trolling a bottom-bouncer and live-bait rig of some type, usually a spinner and nightcrawler, than any other presentation.”

Anglers should consider the species’ name when choosing a time of day to fish. The walleye is so named for its pearlescent eye that features a reflective layer of pigment to seek prey in low light or murky water conditions.

“Fishing more of the crepuscular period, your sunrise and sunset, are better times to catch them,” Rydell said. “Maybe even fishing in the dark a little bit.”

Bauer said the time of day should dictate your approach.

“Walleye anglers spend so much time trying to finesse walleyes, often small walleyes, into nibbling on some live-bait presentation because they are fishing for relatively inactive fish during bright midday conditions,” he said. “If you fish during low-light periods, early and late in the day, after dark, cloudy, gloomy days, or when the wind blows, you will find an entirely different fish — a fish that is the apex, top-of-the-food-chain predator that they really are. They have a mouth full of sharp teeth for a reason, and during prime times they are mobile, agile and hostile.”

In Nebraska, serious walleye anglers often look to the west and central parts of the state.

“The best habitats for walleyes are large bodies of water, large rivers, large natural lakes and large reservoirs,” Bauer said. “In Nebraska, that means our large reservoirs, primarily irrigation reservoirs in the central and western parts of the state, are our best walleye habitats. Walleyes are a cool-water fish, a predator, primarily an open-water predator. They thrive in those larger water bodies that have an abundance of open-water baitfish.”

Rydell said surveys show Winters Creek Lake on the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge near Scottsbluff to have the highest density of walleyes in Game and Parks’ northwestern district with a substantial population of fish between 17-19 inches. Nearby Lake Minatare is down a little from previous years, but still has a sizable population of 17- to 20-inch fish.

Those seeking big walleyes in the west, Rydell said, should look to Whitney Reservoir in Dawes County and Merritt Reservoir near Valentine.

Box Butte Reservoir, another Dawes County destination, is also on Rydell’s list of solid opportunities.

“Box Butte is kind of coming on with a nice walleye population,” he said. “We have a year-class that, last year, was about 13½ inches that should be about 15 this year. With pike numbers down in that lake, and that year class coming on, it will be one that should produce some nice walleye fishing in the future.”

Nebraska’s walleye population gets considerable help from the Game and Parks’ fisheries staff, who collect eggs and milt from walleyes early in the year at Merritt Reservoir, Sherman Reservoir and sometimes Lake McConaughy. Fertilized eggs are taken to Nebraska State Fish Hatcheries, usually Calamus and North Platte, for hatching and rearing. It's a much more effective approach to growing walleye populations than what happens naturally.

How long the fish stay in the hatchery depends on the habitat and other factors of their destination. They can be released as 4-day-old fry, fingerlings, or sometimes 8-inch advanced fingerlings.

“Depending on the water body, all of those walleye stocking strategies have proven successful in Nebraska waters,” Bauer said. “In some waters fry stocking is successful and very inexpensive. In other waters fingerling stockings are most successful. The advanced fingerling stockings are most intensive and most expensive but have been relatively successful in smaller water bodies that are too small to be ideal walleye habitats. In those smaller water bodies the advanced fingerling stockings offer anglers an opportunity to catch a walleye or two from those waters once in a while.”

The minimum requirement for walleyes in Nebraska’s lakes is 15 inches and only one over 22 may be kept. Special regulations exist at Merritt, Sherman, Calamus, Elwood, Harlan County and Branched Oak.

A walleye of 28 inches or 8 pounds qualifies for a Nebraska Master Angler award. The state’s walleye record is a 16-pound, 2-ounce specimen caught at Lake McConaughy by Herbert Cutshall of Ogallala in 1971. Records indicate he caught it on a Storm ThinFin crankbait.

Whatever the approach, as long as anglers are mindful of regulations and recommendations regarding the coronavirus issue, it may be time to target Nebraska’s big tasty, toothy predator fish of the dark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586811230086.png" alt="Kim, at right, and Ladell Earney of Chadron pose with a walleye Ladell caught on a late March evening at Whitney Reservoir in Dawes County. (Nebraskaland/Justin Haag)" />
 <figcaption>Kim, at right, and Ladell Earney of Chadron pose with a walleye Ladell caught on a late March evening at Whitney Reservoir in Dawes County. (Nebraskaland/Justin Haag)</figcaption>
 </figure>Game and Parks News ReleaseCHADRON, Neb. -- The walleye may be Nebraska’s most popular, albeit often hard-to-catch, game fish. It is known for not only having great-tasting fillets, but also for growing big and providing anglers a fishing challenge.Despite its reputation for being hard to catch, at certain times of the year walleyes can be taken by both boat and bank anglers with average skills.Joe Rydell, a fisheries biologist for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s northwest district, said we are in the midst of one time to target walleyes. In April, Nebraska’s walleyes are spawning, or getting ready to, so the population becomes concentrated in shallow water.If you do not have success now, however, try it a little later.“The best month to catch them in is probably going to be toward the end of May and into June, when these fish are coming off of spawning. They’ve had ample time to rest and, at that time of year, they’re really concentrating on feeding,” Rydell said.Especially for anglers seeking big walleyes, fall also can be good fishing for the species.As with most fish and game, knowing what those toothy walleyes want lends clues to when and where you will find them.“They’re a predator fish. So, first of all, before you figure out what kind of habitat you’re going to search, you’ve got to figure out what they’re going to be eating in that water body,” Rydell said. “They’ll be hanging around that food source. In some lakes, that may entail a good rock bottom, or rock structures. In other lakes that are more vegetated, they may be along the weedline. In lakes that have a combination of both, it could be some woody debris or rock structures that are intermixed among those weed beds. At certain times of the year, even though they’re big fish, they may be concentrating on a bug hatch.”Daryl Bauer, Game and Parks fisheries outreach manager, said a variety of artificial and live baits are effective.“Casting jigs and crankbaits, still-fishing or drifting live bait rigs, and trolling crankbaits or live-bait rigs can all be successful techniques for catching walleyes from Nebraska waters,” Bauer said. “However, I would tell you that more walleyes have been caught from Nebraska waters drifting or trolling a bottom-bouncer and live-bait rig of some type, usually a spinner and nightcrawler, than any other presentation.”Anglers should consider the species’ name when choosing a time of day to fish. The walleye is so named for its pearlescent eye that features a reflective layer of pigment to seek prey in low light or murky water conditions.“Fishing more of the crepuscular period, your sunrise and sunset, are better times to catch them,” Rydell said. “Maybe even fishing in the dark a little bit.”Bauer said the time of day should dictate your approach.“Walleye anglers spend so much time trying to finesse walleyes, often small walleyes, into nibbling on some live-bait presentation because they are fishing for relatively inactive fish during bright midday conditions,” he said. “If you fish during low-light periods, early and late in the day, after dark, cloudy, gloomy days, or when the wind blows, you will find an entirely different fish — a fish that is the apex, top-of-the-food-chain predator that they really are. They have a mouth full of sharp teeth for a reason, and during prime times they are mobile, agile and hostile.”In Nebraska, serious walleye anglers often look to the west and central parts of the state.“The best habitats for walleyes are large bodies of water, large rivers, large natural lakes and large reservoirs,” Bauer said. “In Nebraska, that means our large reservoirs, primarily irrigation reservoirs in the central and western parts of the state, are our best walleye habitats. Walleyes are a cool-water fish, a predator, primarily an open-water predator. They thrive in those larger water bodies that have an abundance of open-water baitfish.”Rydell said surveys show Winters Creek Lake on the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge near Scottsbluff to have the highest density of walleyes in Game and Parks’ northwestern district with a substantial population of fish between 17-19 inches. Nearby Lake Minatare is down a little from previous years, but still has a sizable population of 17- to 20-inch fish.Those seeking big walleyes in the west, Rydell said, should look to Whitney Reservoir in Dawes County and Merritt Reservoir near Valentine.Box Butte Reservoir, another Dawes County destination, is also on Rydell’s list of solid opportunities.“Box Butte is kind of coming on with a nice walleye population,” he said. “We have a year-class that, last year, was about 13½ inches that should be about 15 this year. With pike numbers down in that lake, and that year class coming on, it will be one that should produce some nice walleye fishing in the future.”Nebraska’s walleye population gets considerable help from the Game and Parks’ fisheries staff, who collect eggs and milt from walleyes early in the year at Merritt Reservoir, Sherman Reservoir and sometimes Lake McConaughy. Fertilized eggs are taken to Nebraska State Fish Hatcheries, usually Calamus and North Platte, for hatching and rearing. It's a much more effective approach to growing walleye populations than what happens naturally.How long the fish stay in the hatchery depends on the habitat and other factors of their destination. They can be released as 4-day-old fry, fingerlings, or sometimes 8-inch advanced fingerlings.“Depending on the water body, all of those walleye stocking strategies have proven successful in Nebraska waters,” Bauer said. “In some waters fry stocking is successful and very inexpensive. In other waters fingerling stockings are most successful. The advanced fingerling stockings are most intensive and most expensive but have been relatively successful in smaller water bodies that are too small to be ideal walleye habitats. In those smaller water bodies the advanced fingerling stockings offer anglers an opportunity to catch a walleye or two from those waters once in a while.”The minimum requirement for walleyes in Nebraska’s lakes is 15 inches and only one over 22 may be kept. Special regulations exist at Merritt, Sherman, Calamus, Elwood, Harlan County and Branched Oak.A walleye of 28 inches or 8 pounds qualifies for a Nebraska Master Angler award. The state’s walleye record is a 16-pound, 2-ounce specimen caught at Lake McConaughy by Herbert Cutshall of Ogallala in 1971. Records indicate he caught it on a Storm ThinFin crankbait.Whatever the approach, as long as anglers are mindful of regulations and recommendations regarding the coronavirus issue, it may be time to target Nebraska’s big tasty, toothy predator fish of the dark.

Setting sights on the walleye

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man is accused of assaulting a woman during a domestic disturbance.

According to North Platte police, officers responded to a domestic disturbance in the 1300 block of North Miles Street at around 6:39 p.m. on April 10.

Police say officers arrived and made contact with a female and 24-year-old Andy Chicas.

Police say the female alleged that she and Chicas had gotten into a verbal argument. During the argument, she stated that Chicas shoved her and caused her to fall and strike her head on a coffee table. She told officers that once she was on the ground, Chicas began to kick and punch her.

According to police, the victim told officers she was able to retreat to a bedroom, but Chicas followed and continued to strike her.

Police say the victim told officers that Chicas grabbed a necktie and wrapped it around her neck, attempting to choke her.

At one point, police say the female told a juvenile in the residence to go get help, but Chicas allegedly grabbed the juvenile and threw them onto a couch, preventing them from leaving the residence.

Eventually, police say the victim and her children were able to escape to a neighbor's house and contact the police.

Police say Chicas was transported to Great Plains Health for observation and then, on April 12, was arrested on suspicion of 3rd-degree domestic assault, felony assault by strangulation and two counts of child abuse.

Upon his arrest, Chicas was transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center and jailed pending an appearance in county court.

Police did not report any injuries to the alleged victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586776433581.png" alt="Andy Chicas" />
 <figcaption>Andy Chicas</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man is accused of assaulting a woman during a domestic disturbance.According to North Platte police, officers responded to a domestic disturbance in the 1300 block of North Miles Street at around 6:39 p.m. on April 10.Police say officers arrived and made contact with a female and 24-year-old Andy Chicas.Police say the female alleged that she and Chicas had gotten into a verbal argument. During the argument, she stated that Chicas shoved her and caused her to fall and strike her head on a coffee table. She told officers that once she was on the ground, Chicas began to kick and punch her.According to police, the victim told officers she was able to retreat to a bedroom, but Chicas followed and continued to strike her.Police say the victim told officers that Chicas grabbed a necktie and wrapped it around her neck, attempting to choke her.At one point, police say the female told a juvenile in the residence to go get help, but Chicas allegedly grabbed the juvenile and threw them onto a couch, preventing them from leaving the residence.Eventually, police say the victim and her children were able to escape to a neighbor's house and contact the police.Police say Chicas was transported to Great Plains Health for observation and then, on April 12, was arrested on suspicion of 3rd-degree domestic assault, felony assault by strangulation and two counts of child abuse.Upon his arrest, Chicas was transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center and jailed pending an appearance in county court.Police did not report any injuries to the alleged victim.

North Platte man accused of assaulting woman, trying to choke her with necktie

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College is offering a virtual class to help guide people through financial survival in retirement.

“Recent global turmoil from the COVID-19 pandemic has left many people in or near retirement wondering if they are taking the necessary steps to reach their retirement goals,” said Jeff Smeltzer, Business and Community Education coordinator. “This two-day educational course is a condensed version of the regular scheduled workshop held on MPCC campuses during the fall and spring semesters.”

The four-hour course will cover traditional retirement building blocks such as tax, estate, social security and investment planning. Current events will also be addressed, and the steps that should be taken to ensure retirement plans are on track will be outlined.&nbsp;

The course will be taught live via webinar by local Certified Financial Planner Marc Werkmeister. It will include an illustrated textbook in PDF format and ample opportunities to ask questions.&nbsp;

The class will be from 6-8 p.m. (CDT) April 28 and April 30. The fee is $19. Registration can be done online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/bce" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/bce</a>.

By Heather Johnson-MPCCNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College is offering a virtual class to help guide people through financial survival in retirement.“Recent global turmoil from the COVID-19 pandemic has left many people in or near retirement wondering if they are taking the necessary steps to reach their retirement goals,” said Jeff Smeltzer, Business and Community Education coordinator. “This two-day educational course is a condensed version of the regular scheduled workshop held on MPCC campuses during the fall and spring semesters.”The four-hour course will cover traditional retirement building blocks such as tax, estate, social security and investment planning. Current events will also be addressed, and the steps that should be taken to ensure retirement plans are on track will be outlined.&nbsp;The course will be taught live via webinar by local Certified Financial Planner Marc Werkmeister. It will include an illustrated textbook in PDF format and ample opportunities to ask questions.&nbsp;The class will be from 6-8 p.m. (CDT) April 28 and April 30. The fee is $19. Registration can be done online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/bce" target="_blank">mpcc.edu/bce</a>.

MPCC offers financial survival class

MCLAUGHLIN, S.D. (Rapid City Journal) — A family of five on the Standing Rock Reservation has been living in a car and floating among relatives after a small South Dakota town shut off the utilities at their trailer home. 

The mayor of McLaughlin, Arnold Schott, said there was no choice because the town wouldn’t be able to pay its own bills if it didn’t turn off utilities for those who haven’t paid for them. 

Thirty-nine-year-old Patric White Mountain tells the Rapid City Journal his wife, Heaven Strong Heart, and their three children, ages 7, 5 and 1, are at greater risk for contracting the coronavirus without stable housing and running water.&nbsp;

MCLAUGHLIN, S.D. (Rapid City Journal) — A family of five on the Standing Rock Reservation has been living in a car and floating among relatives after a small South Dakota town shut off the utilities at their trailer home. The mayor of McLaughlin, Arnold Schott, said there was no choice because the town wouldn’t be able to pay its own bills if it didn’t turn off utilities for those who haven’t paid for them. Thirty-nine-year-old Patric White Mountain tells the Rapid City Journal his wife, Heaven Strong Heart, and their three children, ages 7, 5 and 1, are at greater risk for contracting the coronavirus without stable housing and running water.&nbsp;

Family loses utilities, mayor says there's no other choice

AP- President Donald Trump on Saturday granted state leaders’ request for Wyoming to be declared a major disaster area because of the effects of the coronavirus. 

The declaration means state, local and tribal governments in Wyoming will be eligible for federal aid to help recovery efforts. 

As of Friday, Wyoming had recorded over 300 confirmed and probable cases of the coronavirus in 19 of its 23 counties; 105 of those people had recovered. 

Pete Gaynor, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, named Lee K. dePalo as the federal coordinating officer for the state.&nbsp;

AP- President Donald Trump on Saturday granted state leaders’ request for Wyoming to be declared a major disaster area because of the effects of the coronavirus. The declaration means state, local and tribal governments in Wyoming will be eligible for federal aid to help recovery efforts. As of Friday, Wyoming had recorded over 300 confirmed and probable cases of the coronavirus in 19 of its 23 counties; 105 of those people had recovered. Pete Gaynor, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, named Lee K. dePalo as the federal coordinating officer for the state.&nbsp;

Trump declares Wyoming major disaster area because of virus

By Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Chief

On Thursday April 9 at approximately 2 p.m. officers of the Chadron Police Department were dispatched to a report of a domestic assault which had occurred at the 100 block of Bordeaux Street. Officers learned that the suspect of the assault had fled in a vehicle.

Officers continued to look for the suspect throughout the day and learned that he was headed back into Chadron at approximately 7 p.m. The suspect was stopped by the Nebraska State Patrol and detained until officers from the Chadron Police Department arrived and arrested 25-year-old Patrick Bordeaux.

Bordeaux was booked into the Dawes County Jail for the charges of Strangulation (Class IIIA Felony, Terroristic Threats (Class IIIA Felony) and Domestic Assault 3rd Degree (Class I Misdemeanor). 

Bond for Bordeaux was set at 10% of $10,000.

The Chadron Police Department was assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol and the Sheridan County Sheriffs Office.

By Tim Lordino, Chadron Police ChiefOn Thursday April 9 at approximately 2 p.m. officers of the Chadron Police Department were dispatched to a report of a domestic assault which had occurred at the 100 block of Bordeaux Street. Officers learned that the suspect of the assault had fled in a vehicle.Officers continued to look for the suspect throughout the day and learned that he was headed back into Chadron at approximately 7 p.m. The suspect was stopped by the Nebraska State Patrol and detained until officers from the Chadron Police Department arrived and arrested 25-year-old Patrick Bordeaux.Bordeaux was booked into the Dawes County Jail for the charges of Strangulation (Class IIIA Felony, Terroristic Threats (Class IIIA Felony) and Domestic Assault 3rd Degree (Class I Misdemeanor). Bond for Bordeaux was set at 10% of $10,000.The Chadron Police Department was assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol and the Sheridan County Sheriffs Office.

Chadron man arrested for strangulation, terroristic threats, domestic assault

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — More than 104 new cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in South Dakota, bringing the state's total number of confirmed cases to 730. 

An update Sunday from the state Department of Health says 89 of the new cases are in Minnehaha County, where more than half of that county's 527 cases have been in employees at the Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in Sioux Falls.

 The company announced Sunday that it would close the plant until further notice. No new COVID-19-related deaths were reported Sunday; a total of six people in the state have died from the virus.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — More than 104 new cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in South Dakota, bringing the state's total number of confirmed cases to 730. An update Sunday from the state Department of Health says 89 of the new cases are in Minnehaha County, where more than half of that county's 527 cases have been in employees at the Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in Sioux Falls. The company announced Sunday that it would close the plant until further notice. No new COVID-19-related deaths were reported Sunday; a total of six people in the state have died from the virus.

Number of COVID-19 cases in South Dakota surpasses 700

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586734132738.png" alt="loup-basin-4-12-20.png" />
 <figcaption>loup-basin-4-12-20.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

Six additional cases of COVID-19 reported in Custer County

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte rescue has announced that they will be temporarily closing their doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Fur the Love of PAWS Rescue made the following announcement:

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that today we announce the **TEMPORARY** closing of the Fur the Love of PAWS Rescue FURcility.&nbsp;

We know that COVID-19 has affected our entire world, and it has finally affected us.&nbsp;

Our rescue program is based entirely on volunteers. Even myself, the Director who never sleeps and eats, breathes and lives for rescue - rescues voluntarily and runs the rescue after a regular job and regular life stuff. Because of this, I depend greatly on other volunteers to help me care for the cats in our facility.

We've been open for three years and had some amazing, AMAZING volunteers and also some not so great ones. I've been stolen from, lied to and betrayed. All part of the learning process. But I've learned that I must be picky about who I allow into our program. They must meet standards of responsibility, reliability, and honesty. Not all do. I only mention this because integrity is important to me and this program. And not every person who applies has that. I can't and won't just allow any 'ol person to come in here.

I have a volunteer that has been with me since day one who recently had to step back for personal reasons. I've had some with me for 2+ years who had health issues and had to step back. I still have some that have been with me for a long time and remain. It's just always a juggle for them and me, and that's fine. I can handle it, I appreciate all my volunteers from the depths of my soul, and they know that. But when you take the normal struggles and changes in a volunteer program and mix in COVID-19..... Everything changes. Everything.

Let me say that we are all fine.. No one is sick. We're fine. But it's ever-changing and in the blink of an eye, that can be different. We lost two volunteers when we weren't even a full bunch again, due to the college closing and an (understandably) self-imposed isolation for safety. We tried to fill those spots and can't. Then we lost another for another reason. We can't have open shifts, or the cats don't get care. They don't get meds, they don't get the things they need. I have to work, I can't afford not to, so I can't be there at all hours of every day. I depend on volunteers...

Yesterday, I learned a third volunteer needed to take a break as she works directly with the public and could have been exposed to someone who may have been exposed. Sounds like a long shot right? Yes. Not panic for me, even 6 months pregnant, I'm OK with that - but I am not OK with putting volunteers I love at any possible risk. Our doors are closed to the public and have been. We have one person per shift, so there is zero minglings. We are literally the cleanest, most disinfected building you'll ever find. But....... I am killing myself with stress trying to make sure my volunteers stay safe and finding new ones to come help. The help isn't coming right now... Because the world is locked up, scared and we all want to protect ourselves and our families.

Our vets are closed except essentials. We can't do anything about that. They are continuing to see Cyrus but they are also in a predicament and affected.

I have cried for weeks over what to do and where to go. I have prayed for answers and sat quietly trying to be the best, most responsible leader I can be. It is a gut-wrenching choice, but it is the right one. Until this all passes, and once Cyrus gets adopted, we will lock up for a bit. *Temporarily.* Take a break. And return when it is safe for the humans who sacrifice so much to help us save our furry friends.

We will still have all our other programs running. We will still support the city shelter, provide them medical care, make sure those aninals are safe. They are also closed to the public at this time. But we will continue to communicate with them and keep our promise to protect those animals.

We will continue our Snip it in the bud program for spay-neuter assistance.

We will still run&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LostPawsNorthPlatte/?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDjCrRuVEX1FyadXSHU5rQjXWAbx-BsjNgJ2MHoJqlsM3ZoN3aOtQH1_QXCmS5vDaCTIgcimYkKI6MpKRlNWokf_Ffiyq-gz8v2_3RhWzQFFGdeDsJop2NfPd_UjkoUiHjdUxNAhU68oCY4uW1-ATFH5062jBBQAnhP3jAg-WjuphvYivwAXJYE_yX9OZthC322dxrn0_PJ2KaDt6d2gr1eVKi3kUJmg5E4uO-DAUEx6cWsXPwhe4UycjWkakWy7RcDudazbYPj8YXAkrJ66T2skEG7l8LNCb1Mj2wNgSudFEBohl8GPz4O4aROKzcRg8NbL0uTpzr80XUe_E4-ZrAVFrLuDzYX-kBJcZQJz2D_yfWBtm3Ypew&amp;__xts__%5B1%5D=68.ARANpuMVIYgBgLkmnjtd3S2v4vlkj6_HdQCiwUni3g6jOdss8W6VBHaCLHU-k5Wnvw0Uxpe11gcEINwcyBQr4-e_2LhlOhTCFs9Ju_JdcqkuCYQlKHDJqL-NE13ahUwQEVReE0DkW2m--0_9W2XGreDIAlkXt86vatREwM-NOf7N8dOou0_FSqg6wicdUVtANQZ8M64iYNpQHSqQ8eJHA56Fju31Hj5J5fJmWg81PBhxuKoBvjy0-mv3KAbAWReiOS5Z3igfUnny1-0QnJoZhpre8AwP5DprZCNkTCAv0stPncKvrGVEf2T7xchJhpMCqjd4ffBWdnpKgj_-EudE0eaSkA&amp;__tn__=K-R&amp;eid=ARA05ew0CSHXHeZLXDhKKLcAd1Su4uDBKlXtAuCG0CCNTFdEPhrJlG67yBEiJs5A6A2DN_g3DUUdY52y&amp;fref=mentions">LOST PAWS - North Platte, NE.</a>, Cans for Critters and co-op the North Platte Pet Food Pantry.

We will still do all the things behind the scenes that we always have.. You have our word we will still be here, fighting for the animals. Nothing else changes, we just won't have a facility capable of running without humans hands inside, for a little while.

Thank you all for understanding and please, selfishly, say a pray for me as I try to come to terms with a gigantic change in my life, although temporary, this is my life work. My everything. And I will pray for all of you. Thank you all.

We will be back in action soon. God Bless. Stay safe. Stay strong! It's all only temporary, for all of us.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586729577237.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte rescue has announced that they will be temporarily closing their doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19.Fur the Love of PAWS Rescue made the following announcement:It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that today we announce the **TEMPORARY** closing of the Fur the Love of PAWS Rescue FURcility.&nbsp;We know that COVID-19 has affected our entire world, and it has finally affected us.&nbsp;Our rescue program is based entirely on volunteers. Even myself, the Director who never sleeps and eats, breathes and lives for rescue - rescues voluntarily and runs the rescue after a regular job and regular life stuff. Because of this, I depend greatly on other volunteers to help me care for the cats in our facility.We've been open for three years and had some amazing, AMAZING volunteers and also some not so great ones. I've been stolen from, lied to and betrayed. All part of the learning process. But I've learned that I must be picky about who I allow into our program. They must meet standards of responsibility, reliability, and honesty. Not all do. I only mention this because integrity is important to me and this program. And not every person who applies has that. I can't and won't just allow any 'ol person to come in here.I have a volunteer that has been with me since day one who recently had to step back for personal reasons. I've had some with me for 2+ years who had health issues and had to step back. I still have some that have been with me for a long time and remain. It's just always a juggle for them and me, and that's fine. I can handle it, I appreciate all my volunteers from the depths of my soul, and they know that. But when you take the normal struggles and changes in a volunteer program and mix in COVID-19..... Everything changes. Everything.Let me say that we are all fine.. No one is sick. We're fine. But it's ever-changing and in the blink of an eye, that can be different. We lost two volunteers when we weren't even a full bunch again, due to the college closing and an (understandably) self-imposed isolation for safety. We tried to fill those spots and can't. Then we lost another for another reason. We can't have open shifts, or the cats don't get care. They don't get meds, they don't get the things they need. I have to work, I can't afford not to, so I can't be there at all hours of every day. I depend on volunteers...Yesterday, I learned a third volunteer needed to take a break as she works directly with the public and could have been exposed to someone who may have been exposed. Sounds like a long shot right? Yes. Not panic for me, even 6 months pregnant, I'm OK with that - but I am not OK with putting volunteers I love at any possible risk. Our doors are closed to the public and have been. We have one person per shift, so there is zero minglings. We are literally the cleanest, most disinfected building you'll ever find. But....... I am killing myself with stress trying to make sure my volunteers stay safe and finding new ones to come help. The help isn't coming right now... Because the world is locked up, scared and we all want to protect ourselves and our families.Our vets are closed except essentials. We can't do anything about that. They are continuing to see Cyrus but they are also in a predicament and affected.I have cried for weeks over what to do and where to go. I have prayed for answers and sat quietly trying to be the best, most responsible leader I can be. It is a gut-wrenching choice, but it is the right one. Until this all passes, and once Cyrus gets adopted, we will lock up for a bit. *Temporarily.* Take a break. And return when it is safe for the humans who sacrifice so much to help us save our furry friends.We will still have all our other programs running. We will still support the city shelter, provide them medical care, make sure those aninals are safe. They are also closed to the public at this time. But we will continue to communicate with them and keep our promise to protect those animals.We will continue our Snip it in the bud program for spay-neuter assistance.We will still run&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LostPawsNorthPlatte/?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDjCrRuVEX1FyadXSHU5rQjXWAbx-BsjNgJ2MHoJqlsM3ZoN3aOtQH1_QXCmS5vDaCTIgcimYkKI6MpKRlNWokf_Ffiyq-gz8v2_3RhWzQFFGdeDsJop2NfPd_UjkoUiHjdUxNAhU68oCY4uW1-ATFH5062jBBQAnhP3jAg-WjuphvYivwAXJYE_yX9OZthC322dxrn0_PJ2KaDt6d2gr1eVKi3kUJmg5E4uO-DAUEx6cWsXPwhe4UycjWkakWy7RcDudazbYPj8YXAkrJ66T2skEG7l8LNCb1Mj2wNgSudFEBohl8GPz4O4aROKzcRg8NbL0uTpzr80XUe_E4-ZrAVFrLuDzYX-kBJcZQJz2D_yfWBtm3Ypew&amp;__xts__%5B1%5D=68.ARANpuMVIYgBgLkmnjtd3S2v4vlkj6_HdQCiwUni3g6jOdss8W6VBHaCLHU-k5Wnvw0Uxpe11gcEINwcyBQr4-e_2LhlOhTCFs9Ju_JdcqkuCYQlKHDJqL-NE13ahUwQEVReE0DkW2m--0_9W2XGreDIAlkXt86vatREwM-NOf7N8dOou0_FSqg6wicdUVtANQZ8M64iYNpQHSqQ8eJHA56Fju31Hj5J5fJmWg81PBhxuKoBvjy0-mv3KAbAWReiOS5Z3igfUnny1-0QnJoZhpre8AwP5DprZCNkTCAv0stPncKvrGVEf2T7xchJhpMCqjd4ffBWdnpKgj_-EudE0eaSkA&amp;__tn__=K-R&amp;eid=ARA05ew0CSHXHeZLXDhKKLcAd1Su4uDBKlXtAuCG0CCNTFdEPhrJlG67yBEiJs5A6A2DN_g3DUUdY52y&amp;fref=mentions">LOST PAWS - North Platte, NE.</a>, Cans for Critters and co-op the North Platte Pet Food Pantry.We will still do all the things behind the scenes that we always have.. You have our word we will still be here, fighting for the animals. Nothing else changes, we just won't have a facility capable of running without humans hands inside, for a little while.Thank you all for understanding and please, selfishly, say a pray for me as I try to come to terms with a gigantic change in my life, although temporary, this is my life work. My everything. And I will pray for all of you. Thank you all.We will be back in action soon. God Bless. Stay safe. Stay strong! It's all only temporary, for all of us.&nbsp;

Fur the Love of PAWS announces temporary closure

Lincoln –&nbsp;Three counties reported new cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Saturday.

The Panhandle Public Health District reported Box Butte County's first case of COVID-19.&nbsp; The Box Butte County case is a female in her 70s who has been isolating in her home since April 3. This case is travel-related.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/Site/Documents/NewsReleases/COVID-19%20Positive%20test%20results%2004.11.2020%20Scotts%20Bluff%20%26%20Box%20Butte%20County.pdf" target="_blank">http://www.pphd.org/Site/Documents/NewsReleases/COVID-19%20Positive%20test%20results%2004.11.2020%20Scotts%20Bluff%20&amp;%20Box%20Butte%20County.pdf&nbsp;</a>

The Northeast Nebraska Public Health District reported Wayne County's first case of COVID-19, a male in his 70s who has been isolating at home since before symptoms started.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nnphd/photos/a.1329229240478436/2868190959915582/?type=3&amp;theate" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/nnphd/photos/a.1329229240478436/2868190959915582/?type=3&amp;theate&nbsp;</a>

The North Central District Health Department also reported a first case in Pierce County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NCDHD/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/NCDHD/&nbsp;</a>

The Loup Basin Public Health Department (LBPHD) confirmed nine additional cases at a long-term care facility in Custer County. The cases are all related.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/lbphd.org/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/lbphd.org/&nbsp;</a>

A resident of the Central Nebraska Veterans' Home (CNVH) in Kearney has tested positive for COVID-19.

Tonight's state case total, as of 6:00 pm Central Daylight Time, is 704. DHHS launched a new data dashboard that provides daily updates to the state's COVID-19 case totals. You can find it at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.

All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs) until May 11 –&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>

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lincoln –&nbsp;Three counties reported new cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Saturday.The Panhandle Public Health District reported Box Butte County's first case of COVID-19.&nbsp; The Box Butte County case is a female in her 70s who has been isolating in her home since April 3. This case is travel-related.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/Site/Documents/NewsReleases/COVID-19%20Positive%20test%20results%2004.11.2020%20Scotts%20Bluff%20%26%20Box%20Butte%20County.pdf" target="_blank">http://www.pphd.org/Site/Documents/NewsReleases/COVID-19%20Positive%20test%20results%2004.11.2020%20Scotts%20Bluff%20&amp;%20Box%20Butte%20County.pdf&nbsp;</a>The Northeast Nebraska Public Health District reported Wayne County's first case of COVID-19, a male in his 70s who has been isolating at home since before symptoms started.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nnphd/photos/a.1329229240478436/2868190959915582/?type=3&amp;theate" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/nnphd/photos/a.1329229240478436/2868190959915582/?type=3&amp;theate&nbsp;</a>The North Central District Health Department also reported a first case in Pierce County.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NCDHD/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/NCDHD/&nbsp;</a>The Loup Basin Public Health Department (LBPHD) confirmed nine additional cases at a long-term care facility in Custer County. The cases are all related.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/lbphd.org/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/lbphd.org/&nbsp;</a>A resident of the Central Nebraska Veterans' Home (CNVH) in Kearney has tested positive for COVID-19.Tonight's state case total, as of 6:00 pm Central Daylight Time, is 704. DHHS launched a new data dashboard that provides daily updates to the state's COVID-19 case totals. You can find it at&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs) until May 11 –&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>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. CST, 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>.I

First cases of COVID-19 reported in Box Butte, Wayne and Pierce Counties

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on April 13,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:00 A.M.

Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on April 13,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:15 A.M.

Lincoln County is
inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Time: Apr 13, 2020
09:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)

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

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


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

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

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

5.	9:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider the tort claim filed by Rich and Beth
DeFreece

6.	9:40
A.M.	Discuss and consider entering into an agreement with Mainelli
Wagner

	&amp;
Associates, Inc. for Bridge Replacement CBMP project and authorize
the Chairman

7.	9:45
A.M.	Update by Brandon Myers of Region 51 Emergency Management

8.	10:00
A.M.	Discuss and consider an application by Byron Perkins, owner, and



	Dave
Colvin, purchaser, for Wagon Trail Administrative Subdivision located
at 1618

	North
Wagon Trail Road.  The property is located in a TA-1 agricultural
district and

	described
as part of the N ½ of the NE ¼ of Lots 3 and 4 Section 33, Township
14

	North,
Range 31 West of the 6th
P.M., Lincoln County, Nebraska

9.	10:15
A.M.	2020 Primary Election Update by Rebecca Rossell, Lincoln County 


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

NOTICE
OF HEARING AND AGENDAMonday,
April 13, 2020Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on April 13,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:00 A.M.Meeting
of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on April 13,
2020 at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at
9:15 A.M.Lincoln County is
inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.Topic: Board of
Commissioners MeetingTime: Apr 13, 2020
09:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)Join Zoom Meeting<a href="https://zoom.us/j/487812444">https://zoom.us/j/487812444</a>Meeting ID: 487 812
444One tap mobile+13462487799,,487812444#
US (Houston)+16699006833,,487812444#
US (San Jose)Dial by your
location +1 346 248
7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900
6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215
8782 US +1 301 715
8592 US +1 312 626
6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205
6099 US (New York)Meeting ID: 487 812
4441.	Open
with prayer2.	Approve
minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting	held
April 6, 20203.	Consider
the following:<ol>
 <li>Claims
	&amp; Treasurer’s Receipts
	</li><li>Receive
	and order filed the fee reports submitted by the County Clerk,
	Register of Deeds and County Sheriff
</li>
 </ol>
Recess
as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the
Lincoln County Board of Equalization.4.	9:15
A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:<ol>
 <li>Approve
	minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Equalization meeting
</li>
 </ol><a></a>
held
on April 6, 2020<ol>
 <li>Certificates
	of correction and refund as submitted by the County Assessor	
	</li><li>2020
	Tax Exemption Applications on Real and Personal Property by
	qualifying organizations – Form 451 
	
</li>
 </ol>Adjourn
or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization
and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.5.	9:30
A.M.	Discuss and consider the tort claim filed by Rich and Beth
DeFreece6.	9:40
A.M.	Discuss and consider entering into an agreement with Mainelli
Wagner	&amp;
Associates, Inc. for Bridge Replacement CBMP project and authorize
the Chairman	to
sign (O’Fallon Bridge)7.	9:45
A.M.	Update by Brandon Myers of Region 51 Emergency Management8.	10:00
A.M.	Discuss and consider an application by Byron Perkins, owner, and

	Dave
Colvin, purchaser, for Wagon Trail Administrative Subdivision located
at 1618	North
Wagon Trail Road. The property is located in a TA-1 agricultural
district and	described
as part of the N ½ of the NE ¼ of Lots 3 and 4 Section 33, Township
14	North,
Range 31 West of the 6th
P.M., Lincoln County, Nebraska9.	10:15
A.M.	2020 Primary Election Update by Rebecca Rossell, Lincoln County 
	Election
Commissioner Hear
concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, and their
representative

Lincoln County Commissioners Meeting Agenda (April 13, 2020)

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) -Nebraska had 790 reported coronavirus cases as of Sunday, up 90 from the number reported Saturday, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services.

No new deaths were reported. So far, 17 people have died from the virus in Nebraska.

The uptick in cases came as some churchgoers attended drive-in Easter services from their cars to ensure social distancing.

St. John Lutheran Church held services at the Gage County Fairgrounds, where attendees listened from their car radios, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/photos-beatrice-area-celebrates-easter-with-drive-in-church-service/collection_77e686b9-155a-54b0-bb77-b4522771be7d.html#1" target="_blank">reported</a>.

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

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) -Nebraska had 790 reported coronavirus cases as of Sunday, up 90 from the number reported Saturday, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services.No new deaths were reported. So far, 17 people have died from the virus in Nebraska.The uptick in cases came as some churchgoers attended drive-in Easter services from their cars to ensure social distancing.St. John Lutheran Church held services at the Gage County Fairgrounds, where attendees listened from their car radios, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/photos-beatrice-area-celebrates-easter-with-drive-in-church-service/collection_77e686b9-155a-54b0-bb77-b4522771be7d.html#1" target="_blank">reported</a>.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

Nebraska virus cases up to 790

Today is Sunday, April 12, the 103rd day of 2020. There are 263 days left in the year.

On April 12, 1861, the Civil War began as Confederate forces opened fire on Fort Sumter in South Carolina.

In 1776, North Carolina's Fourth Provincial Congress authorized the colony's delegates to the Continental Congress to support independence from Britain.

In 1912, Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, died in Glen Echo, Maryland, at age 90.

In 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage in Warm Springs, Georgia, at age 63; he was succeeded by Vice President Harry S. Truman.

In 1954, the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission opened a hearing on whether Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, scientific director of the Manhattan Project, should have his security clearance reinstated amid questions about his loyalty (it wasn't). Bill Haley and His Comets recorded "Rock Around the Clock" in New York for Decca Records.

In 1955, the Salk vaccine against polio was declared safe and effective.

In 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first man to fly in space, orbiting the earth once before making a safe landing.

From the Associated PressToday in HistoryToday is Sunday, April 12, the 103rd day of 2020. There are 263 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On April 12, 1861, the Civil War began as Confederate forces opened fire on Fort Sumter in South Carolina.On this date:In 1776, North Carolina's Fourth Provincial Congress authorized the colony's delegates to the Continental Congress to support independence from Britain.In 1912, Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, died in Glen Echo, Maryland, at age 90.In 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage in Warm Springs, Georgia, at age 63; he was succeeded by Vice President Harry S. Truman.In 1954, the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission opened a hearing on whether Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, scientific director of the Manhattan Project, should have his security clearance reinstated amid questions about his loyalty (it wasn't). Bill Haley and His Comets recorded "Rock Around the Clock" in New York for Decca Records.In 1955, the Salk vaccine against polio was declared safe and effective.In 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first man to fly in space, orbiting the earth once before making a safe landing.In 1963, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested and jailed in Birmingham, Alabama, charged with contempt of court and parading without a permit. (During his time behind bars, King wrote his "Letter from Birmingham Jail.")In 1981, the space shuttle Columbia blasted off from Cape Canaveral on its first test flight. Former world heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis, 66, died in Las Vegas, Nevada.In 1988, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued a patent to Harvard University for a genetically engineered mouse, the first time a patent was granted for an animal life form.In 1990, in its first meeting, East Germany's first democratically elected parliament acknowledged responsibility for the Nazi Holocaust, and asked the forgiveness of Jews and others who had suffered.In 2006, jurors in the Zacarias Moussaoui (zak-uh-REE'-uhs moo-SOW'-ee) trial listened to a recording of shouts and cries in the cockpit as desperate passengers twice charged hijackers during the final half hour of doomed United Flight 93 on 9/11.In 2009, American cargo ship captain Richard Phillips was rescued from Somali pirates by U.S. Navy snipers who shot and killed three of the hostage-takers. Angel Cabrera became the first Argentine to win the Masters.Ten years ago: President Barack Obama opened a 47-nation nuclear summit in Washington, boosted by Ukraine's announcement that it would give up its weapons-grade uranium. The musical "Next to Normal" won the Pulitzer for drama; Paul Harding's "Tinkers" was the surprise fiction winner.Five years ago: Hillary Rodham Clinton jumped back into presidential politics, announcing in a video her much-awaited second campaign for the White House. Pope Francis marked the 100th anniversary of the slaughter of Armenians by Ottoman Turks, calling it "the first genocide of the 20th century," a politically explosive declaration that provoked a furious reaction from Turkey. Jordan Spieth (speeth) romped to his first major championship with a record-tying performance at the Masters, shooting an 18-under 270 to become the first wire-to-wire winner of the green jacket since 1976.One year ago: A 5-year-old boy was seriously injured when he was thrown from a third-story balcony at the Mall of America in Minnesota by a stranger who had randomly grabbed the child. (Emmanuel Aranda pleaded guilty to attempted murder and was sentenced to 19 years in prison; the injured child was hospitalized for months.) A former Florida prep school administrator, Mark Riddell, pleaded guilty to taking college entrance exams for students in exchange for cash to help wealthy parents get their kids into elite universities. (Riddell later cooperated with investigators.) Former NFL player and coach Forrest Gregg died in Colorado Springs from complications of Parkinson’s disease; he was 85. Actress Georgia Engel, best known as Georgette on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” died in New Jersey at the age of 70.Today's Birthdays: Children's author Beverly Cleary is 104. Actress Jane Withers is 94. Playwright Alan Ayckbourn (AYK'-bohrn) is 81. Jazz musician Herbie Hancock is 80. Rock singer John Kay (Steppenwolf) is 76. Actor Ed O'Neill is 74. Actor Dan Lauria is 73. Talk show host David Letterman is 73. Author Scott Turow is 71. Actor-playwright Tom Noonan is 69. Rhythm-and-blues singer JD Nicholas (The Commodores) is 68. Singer Pat Travers is 66. Actor Andy Garcia is 64. Movie director Walter Salles (SAL'-ihs) is 64. Country singer Vince Gill is 63. Actress Suzzanne (cq) Douglas is 63. Model/TV personality J Alexander is 62. Rock musician Will Sergeant (Echo &amp; the Bunnymen) is 62. Rock singer Art Alexakis (al-ex-AH'-kihs) (Everclear) is 58. Country singer Deryl Dodd is 56. Folk-pop singer Amy Ray (Indigo Girls) is 56. Actress Alicia Coppola is 52. Rock singer Nicholas Hexum (311) is 50. Actress Retta is 50. Actor Nicholas Brendon is 49. Actress Shannen Doherty is 49. Actress Marley Shelton is 46. Actress Sarah Jane Morris is 43. Actress Jordana Spiro is 43. Rock musician Guy Berryman (Coldplay) is 42. Actor Riley Smith is 42. Actress Claire Danes is 41. Actress Jennifer Morrison is 41. Actor Matt McGorry is 34. Actress Brooklyn Decker is 33. Contemporary Christian musician Joe Rickard (Red) is 33. Rock singer-musician Brendon Urie (Panic! at the Disco) is 33. Actress Saoirse (SUR'-shuh) Ronan is 26.Thought for Today: "The surest test of discipline is its absence." — Clara Barton (1821-1912).