LINCOLN –&nbsp;The sixth death related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today. The person was a Gage County resident in her 90s with underlying health conditions. She was also the county’s first case -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vcGhzbmViLm9yZy8ifQ.KT8l839_BHDAlPqDlFqIOwE8TfHeXJ06H2WYgUqybm8%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604794756&amp;sdata=gjwQJ35OguWyZxXrMBQjYN%2BRCkVsRQkCAuyHPLPi9yo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://phsneb.org/</a>.

“Every loss is sobering for all of us,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS. “COVID-19 is going to get worse before it gets better and we must remain vigilant in our efforts to fight this virus.”

Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick and Otoe Counties also recently reported first cases of COVID-19 -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vZWNkaGQvIn0.6ATsBcw3ylk3eu9uD2_xsZkfcvj2oTuMB4HjKjnddqc%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604794756&amp;sdata=y48JCUB2rycnSg3XkbsuA4j53qOm%2B2oRiyH%2BA5K%2BzXo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/ecdhd/</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NkaGQubmUuZ292LyJ9.d3-2Fi9bQH0ooJEmI-nQnkjDWzrqLd7kKbhn7aypSAk%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604804757&amp;sdata=jdr3f7LDT54sFBPfSKxpcczlKRKPGnIuzUjG2ca16JA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://cdhd.ne.gov/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNlZGhkLm9yZy8ifQ.XJ7RaLTnyqfY9FoD2mmgM9ePTBg8rzwPSKU1pSxawGQ%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604804757&amp;sdata=lupejAMszOJmvS%2BMFk%2BjX42US54xBxR7Wc%2Fm%2F1T1f3A%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://www.sedhd.org/</a>.

Tonight’s state case total is 255. 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="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.2YP9Hs_nDNjCX7bu5YWCYW5fT5WR6x4EHEw9tq4AtQ0%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604814750&amp;sdata=sodMhkM21fwHTqtVDWfjuqM7vdISlciv%2F0grXNBExVg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.

Certain people are at higher risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease. People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;

Recent data shows that the virus is also affecting younger people. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said 20% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S. were 20-44 years old.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.

Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;

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="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fdhhs.ne.gov%252Fcoronavirus%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DOWKoYpNQt-PdHqXDs3t9sCGKsfwf4zoXmdKSceErz7k&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604844727&amp;sdata=24qDvGWcFPfdqDb6EDV%2BvAfkqo6bgJJbULr5uf%2BCJC0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604854725&amp;sdata=HrjPguU%2BNSGKCA2mrD4ugdYB3qX3FlKYCL%2F7UpNgBH8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;

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://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604864715&amp;sdata=4T4UmChzvPLrLoq%2FjmZX0B2vwDkZp0NAVeVaOJONCI8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Follow DHHS on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.facebook.com%252FNEDHHS%252F%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DjAmsa7f-sSNLfdhIK-j9Ff2b9ZTVny00ARF2cGhGOgA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604864715&amp;sdata=h3FQ6IPLEyYTrS9qUHf8c4wDDHvCvNKVSQwLmMh1%2BAE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftwitter.com%252FNEDHHS%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DHghj_aVjMYCiCo3uvsdsfl7MrjsZbfAEHO79OrgH9VE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604874709&amp;sdata=oYY%2FIE6w2FqgtWDgq5dDBYgWRuc%2Bb6Ph%2FdM4wYGH8XY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the health of Nebraskans.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;The sixth death related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today. The person was a Gage County resident in her 90s with underlying health conditions. She was also the county’s first case -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vcGhzbmViLm9yZy8ifQ.KT8l839_BHDAlPqDlFqIOwE8TfHeXJ06H2WYgUqybm8%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604794756&amp;sdata=gjwQJ35OguWyZxXrMBQjYN%2BRCkVsRQkCAuyHPLPi9yo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://phsneb.org/</a>.“Every loss is sobering for all of us,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS. “COVID-19 is going to get worse before it gets better and we must remain vigilant in our efforts to fight this virus.”Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick and Otoe Counties also recently reported first cases of COVID-19 -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vZWNkaGQvIn0.6ATsBcw3ylk3eu9uD2_xsZkfcvj2oTuMB4HjKjnddqc%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604794756&amp;sdata=y48JCUB2rycnSg3XkbsuA4j53qOm%2B2oRiyH%2BA5K%2BzXo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/ecdhd/</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NkaGQubmUuZ292LyJ9.d3-2Fi9bQH0ooJEmI-nQnkjDWzrqLd7kKbhn7aypSAk%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604804757&amp;sdata=jdr3f7LDT54sFBPfSKxpcczlKRKPGnIuzUjG2ca16JA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://cdhd.ne.gov/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnNlZGhkLm9yZy8ifQ.XJ7RaLTnyqfY9FoD2mmgM9ePTBg8rzwPSKU1pSxawGQ%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604804757&amp;sdata=lupejAMszOJmvS%2BMFk%2BjX42US54xBxR7Wc%2Fm%2F1T1f3A%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://www.sedhd.org/</a>.Tonight’s state case total is 255. 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="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDMuMTk2ODg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.2YP9Hs_nDNjCX7bu5YWCYW5fT5WR6x4EHEw9tq4AtQ0%2Fbr%2F76992084009-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604814750&amp;sdata=sodMhkM21fwHTqtVDWfjuqM7vdISlciv%2F0grXNBExVg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.Certain people are at higher risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease. People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523Have-supplies-on-hand%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dip8Sugu61fdoR3_ctcDwfNxCHFaDvy6DiQUXzw66ljY&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604814750&amp;sdata=KpV2Wvsr7I6B64NaPWKxKfQ6IDWfBqKtoLNzp9uTH3c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Stock up on supplies</a>, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523take-everyday-precautions%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DaDIDsLdK1xHORdoVvnOclR953vTCfa0o-VFCHX2HR7c&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604824740&amp;sdata=23C0QPber%2BjbXpxC6ahJPkOkPRu09LrFKU2zAba9pB0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">everyday precautions</a>&nbsp;to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523avoid-crowds%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3D430s9GZp-u_cCicwxuwTNRFqso8jlQQLpAbEE1sElZY&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604834734&amp;sdata=3KlSZCD87Q1nDLAcxDyyGX4j85fMOipsZRd%2Fyp91q7Q%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Avoid crowds</a>&nbsp;as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%252Ftravel%252Fpage%252Fcovid-19-cruise-ship%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DLIiV4jvrAjF3-LvB-W4Fig9s8RisgM2TUJ4kkR0TAnA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604834734&amp;sdata=iRZM4CBOgyInDK1xUS34GMC88iRDnJNEusPk%2B7UZYTM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">cruise travel</a>&nbsp;and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523stay-home%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DM0n35neS-gR_rUKvB-nFbMa5ENMnuXRS-P6j8t8p62E&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604844727&amp;sdata=ddxEMzLzbIAjipbg3oeBGoo6GqZZmvLDaOyCF1PrEA4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stay home</a>&nbsp;as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Recent data shows that the virus is also affecting younger people. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said 20% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S. were 20-44 years old.The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and staying home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water&nbsp;for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>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="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fdhhs.ne.gov%252Fcoronavirus%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DOWKoYpNQt-PdHqXDs3t9sCGKsfwf4zoXmdKSceErz7k&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604844727&amp;sdata=24qDvGWcFPfdqDb6EDV%2BvAfkqo6bgJJbULr5uf%2BCJC0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604854725&amp;sdata=HrjPguU%2BNSGKCA2mrD4ugdYB3qX3FlKYCL%2F7UpNgBH8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;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://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604864715&amp;sdata=4T4UmChzvPLrLoq%2FjmZX0B2vwDkZp0NAVeVaOJONCI8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.Follow DHHS on&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.facebook.com%252FNEDHHS%252F%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DjAmsa7f-sSNLfdhIK-j9Ff2b9ZTVny00ARF2cGhGOgA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604864715&amp;sdata=h3FQ6IPLEyYTrS9qUHf8c4wDDHvCvNKVSQwLmMh1%2BAE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DAqX%252Fyxxn%252FCsKfNEzXNs%252BvxKe7ZZW379%252BIapVVCHkcj06tGRioNXHydnB8SDRy9JxKxbnmsbGajTZ1uu1UqTWx8FWCJ69lKl%252B805rdeXi%252FidskzQDoiAMzbfDT%252FjzP8CI2zrCmk2%252FYqI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftwitter.com%252FNEDHHS%26I%3D20200323005305.0000065c8bd7%2540mail6-60-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzgwODY0Yzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYjRmZTs%253D%26S%3DHghj_aVjMYCiCo3uvsdsfl7MrjsZbfAEHO79OrgH9VE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb7e9449b3b7b4242e6e608d7d76fd3d4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214747604874709&amp;sdata=oYY%2FIE6w2FqgtWDgq5dDBYgWRuc%2Bb6Ph%2FdM4wYGH8XY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the health of Nebraskans.

Gage County woman in her 90s is 6th COVID-19 related death in Nebraska

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts held a press conference to announce that the State has entered into an agreement with the University of Nebraska System to provide quarantine housing.&nbsp; He also gave an update on coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) testing in Nebraska and reviewed the State’s social distancing strategy to combat COVID-19.&nbsp;

First Lady Susanne Shore joined the Governor to share information about Nebraska Impact’s COVID-19 relief fund.&nbsp; Additionally, Labor Commissioner John Albin overviewed the State’s work to process unemployment claims during the pandemic.

Gov. Ricketts: Nebraska’s Newest Directed Health Measure (DHM)

First Lady Shore: Nebraka Impact’s COVID-19 Relief Fund

Labor Commissioner Albin: Unemployment Benefits

Gov. Ricketts: Nebraska’s Social Distancing Strategy

Read the Governor’s executive order regarding unemployment by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F9gdndz0g0nsjbmv%2FEO%252020-14%2520Emergency%2520Unemployment%2520Insurance%2520Benefit%2520Relief%2520-%2520Part%25202.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cdf7f92de77334db6f66408d7d767931e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214712163718352&amp;sdata=hfTudXUfQvUsy0JktvHFgGZlE5lC8b%2BerlG%2FBS%2B2z%2FU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

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%2Ft3j2jg7intmamqv%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.02.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cdf7f92de77334db6f66408d7d767931e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214712163718352&amp;sdata=pQF5hDC72C4o%2BokJiXA%2F575Y2%2F%2BX3cMh4YU8qy1ZlpE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts held a press conference to announce that the State has entered into an agreement with the University of Nebraska System to provide quarantine housing.&nbsp; He also gave an update on coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) testing in Nebraska and reviewed the State’s social distancing strategy to combat COVID-19.&nbsp;First Lady Susanne Shore joined the Governor to share information about Nebraska Impact’s COVID-19 relief fund.&nbsp; Additionally, Labor Commissioner John Albin overviewed the State’s work to process unemployment claims during the pandemic.Gov. Ricketts: Quarantine Housing<ol>
 <li>The State of Nebraska has signed contracts with the University of Nebraska to create bed space for three purposes:Quarantining individuals who need monitoring.People in isolation while waiting for testing results.Discharging patients who are convalescing.</li><li>Quarantining individuals who need monitoring.</li><li>People in isolation while waiting for testing results.</li><li>Discharging patients who are convalescing.</li><li>The contracts will provide about 2,100 beds with food and janitorial services.</li><li>The State and the federal government will cover the costs of these beds.</li><li>Our teammates are working to pull together the staffing for these facilities if they’re needed.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: Nebraska’s Newest Directed Health Measure (DHM)<ol>
 <li>Last night, the State issued a new DHM covering 15 new counties in North and Central Nebraska.New counties include Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas.</li><li>New counties include Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas.</li><li>Overall, 56 counties are now covered by the State’s DHM (as of April 2, 2020).&nbsp; For these counties, the DHM...Imposes an enforceable 10-person limit on social gatherings.Requires restaurants and bars to close their dining areas and move to takeout, delivery, and/or curbside service only.&nbsp;Prohibits medical and dental elective surgeries and procedures.Cancels veterinary procedures. &nbsp;Veterinarians are urged to donate unused Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to local health departments and hospitals.</li><li>Imposes an enforceable 10-person limit on social gatherings.</li><li>Requires restaurants and bars to close their dining areas and move to takeout, delivery, and/or curbside service only.&nbsp;</li><li>Prohibits medical and dental elective surgeries and procedures.</li><li>Cancels veterinary procedures. &nbsp;Veterinarians are urged to donate unused Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to local health departments and hospitals.</li><li>The State’s latest DHM also orders all schools&nbsp;statewide&nbsp;to…Operate without students in their buildings through May 31st.Cancel extracurricular activities through May 31st.</li><li>Operate without students in their buildings through May 31st.</li><li>Cancel extracurricular activities through May 31st.</li>
 </ol>First Lady Shore: Nebraka Impact’s COVID-19 Relief Fund<ol>
 <li>Nebraska Impact is a nonprofit whose mission is to connect Nebraskans with one another, bridge communities, and enhance state pride by initiating statewide programming that encourages volunteerism and economic development.</li><li>During this unprecedented time, Nebraska Impact is leveraging its statewide connections to assist Nebraskans in need.</li><li>The Nebraska Impact COVID-19 Relief Fund will be directed through statewide Community Collaboratives that are part of Bring Up Nebraska, a program administered by the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (NCFF).</li><li>Funds will help individual communities meet their local needs, which may include financial assistance for rent, mortgage, and utilities payments; provisions for food pantries; or supplies for students from low-income families now studying from home.&nbsp;</li><li>Tapping into Bring Up Nebraska’s Community Collaboratives assures that funds are used in a targeted, strategic way to meet specific needs.</li><li>The collaborations bring together critical community players, including civic leaders, service providers, educators, health care professionals, law enforcement, and local businesses.</li><li>With the assistance and support of NCFF and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, each Community Collaborative has an intimate understanding of its community's needs, challenges, and strengths. &nbsp;Collaborations are also situated on the frontlines where they can readily solve the problems of area residents.&nbsp;</li><li>Nebraska Impact and NCFF are also working with the Nebraska Department of Education and the Nebraska’s ESUs to identify technology needs for students from low-income families who are now studying from home.</li><li>To learn more about the relief fund, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimpact.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cdf7f92de77334db6f66408d7d767931e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214712163708397&amp;sdata=RAbrAMsXWn%2FhikY9oJeByRFhRzLXjo2KNVu6zZ8G%2F6M%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.neimpact.org</a>. &nbsp;You can donate online, via mail, or over the phone.</li>
 </ol>Labor Commissioner Albin: Unemployment Benefits<ol>
 <li>Nebraskans should not walk away from their jobs in the hopes of collecting unemployment benefits.&nbsp; If you quit your job, you will be ineligible for unemployment benefits.</li><li>The federal CARES Act created a temporary program that offers benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits including the self-employed, independent contractors, gig workers, and others.Self-employed Nebraskans who have been affected by the pandemic should go ahead and file for unemployment.&nbsp; NDOL will automatically review every claim that comes in for eligibility.By applying this week, Nebraskans will be eligible to receive benefits for this week.</li><li>Self-employed Nebraskans who have been affected by the pandemic should go ahead and file for unemployment.&nbsp; NDOL will automatically review every claim that comes in for eligibility.</li><li>By applying this week, Nebraskans will be eligible to receive benefits for this week.</li><li>The CARES Act also increases the amount an individual will receive by $600 for every week an individual is unemployed.Once NDOL receives guidance from the federal government, all individuals who qualify will receive $600 in additional benefits for each eligible week of unemployment, including prior weeks.Regular unemployment claims will start to be processed today. &nbsp;NDOL will pay at the current rate and then make up additional payments once the federal government issues guidance related to the CARES Act.</li><li>Once NDOL receives guidance from the federal government, all individuals who qualify will receive $600 in additional benefits for each eligible week of unemployment, including prior weeks.</li><li>Regular unemployment claims will start to be processed today. &nbsp;NDOL will pay at the current rate and then make up additional payments once the federal government issues guidance related to the CARES Act.</li><li>The volume of unemployment claims in the past three weeks in Nebraska has been roughly equal to the total volume for 2019.NDOL has doubled the number of teammates processing claims in order to expedite payments.The Department’s goal is to make 80% of initial payments within 3-4 weeks of a new claim being filed.</li><li>NDOL has doubled the number of teammates processing claims in order to expedite payments.</li><li>The Department’s goal is to make 80% of initial payments within 3-4 weeks of a new claim being filed.</li><li>Nationally, the number of unemployment claims doubled last week (an increase of 100%). &nbsp;In Nebraska, they only increased 56%, which is a sign of the state’s economic strength.</li><li>The State has taken action to provide unemployment relief.Making the first week of eligibility payable rather than an unpaid waiting week.Waiving the requirement to look for work.Waiving benefit charges incurred by employers.</li><li>Making the first week of eligibility payable rather than an unpaid waiting week.</li><li>Waiving the requirement to look for work.</li><li>Waiving benefit charges incurred by employers.</li><li>Also, declining an employer’s request to come back to work will also be treated as a “quit,” making a person ineligible for benefits.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: Nebraska’s Social Distancing Strategy<ol>
 <li>The State developed its plan in consultation with world-renowned experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and our public health agencies.</li><li>Since the virus will spread to different places at different times, and with varying rate, Nebraska has adopted a regional approach to social distancing.</li><li>The key to slowing the virus is to limit large social gatherings, which Nebraska has done.</li><li>Social distancing can take place without having to close down businesses.</li><li>A shelter-at-home order is not part of the State’s plan.</li><li>Nebraskans are encouraged to heed federal guidance to remain home. &nbsp;Most people in Nebraska are already doing so in compliance with the State’s limitations on social gatherings. &nbsp;</li><li>We started our social distancing measures early, and this is helping us stay ahead of the curve.</li>
 </ol>Gov. Ricketts: COVID-19 Testing<ol>
 <li>The number of daily test results jumped over 50% day-over-day between March 31st&nbsp;and April 1st.We saw 696 results on April 1st, an improvement from 404 on March 31st.</li><li>We saw 696 results on April 1st, an improvement from 404 on March 31st.</li><li>DHHS is prioritizing the following persons for COVID-19 testing:Hospitalized patients with a clinical presentation consistent with COVID-19.Outpatients who are in high-risk or vulnerable populations.Residents and staff at 24-hour facilities.Health care workers.Public safety workers and first responders.Individuals older than 65 years old.Anyone with underlying conditions where a COVID-19 infection could result in severe illness or death.&nbsp;</li><li>Hospitalized patients with a clinical presentation consistent with COVID-19.</li><li>Outpatients who are in high-risk or vulnerable populations.</li><li>Residents and staff at 24-hour facilities.</li><li>Health care workers.</li><li>Public safety workers and first responders.</li><li>Individuals older than 65 years old.</li><li>Anyone with underlying conditions where a COVID-19 infection could result in severe illness or death.&nbsp;</li><li>The State is continuing to work every day to expand testing capacity and materials.</li>
 </ol>Read the Governor’s executive order regarding unemployment by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F9gdndz0g0nsjbmv%2FEO%252020-14%2520Emergency%2520Unemployment%2520Insurance%2520Benefit%2520Relief%2520-%2520Part%25202.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cdf7f92de77334db6f66408d7d767931e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214712163718352&amp;sdata=hfTudXUfQvUsy0JktvHFgGZlE5lC8b%2BerlG%2FBS%2B2z%2FU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.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%2Ft3j2jg7intmamqv%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.02.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cdf7f92de77334db6f66408d7d767931e%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214712163718352&amp;sdata=pQF5hDC72C4o%2BokJiXA%2F575Y2%2F%2BX3cMh4YU8qy1ZlpE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts announces partnership with Univ. of Nebraska on quarantine housing, First Lady Shore launches COVID-19 relief fund

Lincoln&nbsp;—&nbsp;A teammate at the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center (YRTC) in Kearney has tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).&nbsp; The individual contacted the facility as per DHHS guidance to make them aware of his symptoms and has not returned to work.&nbsp; A contact investigation is underway.

The Department of Health and Human Services was and continues to be proactive in its efforts to deal with this pandemic.&nbsp; Each of our youth and adult care facilities developed a pandemic plan that outlines preparations and actions the facility will take to detect and contain COVID-19 while maintaining operations and meeting the basic needs of the facility. The plans include spaces identified for potential quarantine or isolation areas for residents as needed. &nbsp;Additionally, the facility staff began to log daily temperature checks for all staff on March 19, 2020, and residents beginning March 25, 2020. Visitors were monitored as well starting March 14 through March 23, 2020, when physical visitation was suspended until further notice and virtual visitation commenced. All staff are checked before entering the facility and not allowed to work if they are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms.

Our top priority is ensuring the health and safety of our residents. Physical preparations to mitigate or reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 began in mid-February at the facility, such as deep cleaning and posting signage as reminders to practice good hygiene. All 24-hour facility staff received a letter on March 20, 2020, explaining how the facility would manage a potential exposure and what was occurring to reduce the chances for exposure as a follow-up to a number of communications in the preceding weeks, that included messages from the CEO and FAQs designed for teammates to address preparedness efforts across DHHS.

CEO, Dannette R. Smith stated, “We have continued to assess the needs of our YRTCs and other 24-hour facilities in anticipation of possible community spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; We did not take suspending physical visitation lightly, but we know that we must protect our youth in our care.&nbsp; I am pleased that proactive measures were in place and that the daily temperature log was recorded, as it has helped our epidemiological team to conduct a swift and thorough investigation.&nbsp; I wish for a speedy recovery of our teammate.”&nbsp;

The teammate has been off work for five days and will not return until a full recovery is documented by a medical professional. DHHS is working closely with the local county health department to determine next steps for screening staff and the youth at the program.

Lincoln&nbsp;—&nbsp;A teammate at the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center (YRTC) in Kearney has tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).&nbsp; The individual contacted the facility as per DHHS guidance to make them aware of his symptoms and has not returned to work.&nbsp; A contact investigation is underway.The Department of Health and Human Services was and continues to be proactive in its efforts to deal with this pandemic.&nbsp; Each of our youth and adult care facilities developed a pandemic plan that outlines preparations and actions the facility will take to detect and contain COVID-19 while maintaining operations and meeting the basic needs of the facility. The plans include spaces identified for potential quarantine or isolation areas for residents as needed. &nbsp;Additionally, the facility staff began to log daily temperature checks for all staff on March 19, 2020, and residents beginning March 25, 2020. Visitors were monitored as well starting March 14 through March 23, 2020, when physical visitation was suspended until further notice and virtual visitation commenced. All staff are checked before entering the facility and not allowed to work if they are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms.Our top priority is ensuring the health and safety of our residents. Physical preparations to mitigate or reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 began in mid-February at the facility, such as deep cleaning and posting signage as reminders to practice good hygiene. All 24-hour facility staff received a letter on March 20, 2020, explaining how the facility would manage a potential exposure and what was occurring to reduce the chances for exposure as a follow-up to a number of communications in the preceding weeks, that included messages from the CEO and FAQs designed for teammates to address preparedness efforts across DHHS.CEO, Dannette R. Smith stated, “We have continued to assess the needs of our YRTCs and other 24-hour facilities in anticipation of possible community spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; We did not take suspending physical visitation lightly, but we know that we must protect our youth in our care.&nbsp; I am pleased that proactive measures were in place and that the daily temperature log was recorded, as it has helped our epidemiological team to conduct a swift and thorough investigation.&nbsp; I wish for a speedy recovery of our teammate.”&nbsp;The teammate has been off work for five days and will not return until a full recovery is documented by a medical professional. DHHS is working closely with the local county health department to determine next steps for screening staff and the youth at the program.

Kearney Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center teammate tests positive for COVID-19

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Public health officials, health care providers, and laboratories are working daily to increase Nebraska’s capacity to test more people for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

”As a state, we are making progress increasing COVID-19 testing availability,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Director of Public Health and Chief Medical Officer for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “As resources grow, we are expanding those patients recommended for COVID-19 testing and we will continue to prioritize testing of first responders and health care workers.”

DHHS emphasizes that current testing guidance for health care providers prioritizes the following patients for COVID-19 testing:

People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone. An order from a physician or public health is needed to receive a test.

As testing availability continues to increase, DHHS will provide additional information on where Nebraskans can receive testing at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2ODM3NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmRoaHMubmUuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzIn0.mJENaUZhxh2KSTEKg_yGDMiXpc9zv5qrDdRq6vYjHss%2Fbr%2F76988678328-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cfff61d5089a0450567a908d7d7569665%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214639206166652&amp;sdata=4W41FlNrVGGL%2B5TPnuYIEPYy9pQYaWrn%2B%2Ftdrg0kOME%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as it has new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cfff61d5089a0450567a908d7d7569665%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214639206166652&amp;sdata=TMgEW6pIqyp6q0xWXuG7%2F9p%2FwYTlN17Ksoup1cnq39k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Public health officials, health care providers, and laboratories are working daily to increase Nebraska’s capacity to test more people for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).”As a state, we are making progress increasing COVID-19 testing availability,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Director of Public Health and Chief Medical Officer for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “As resources grow, we are expanding those patients recommended for COVID-19 testing and we will continue to prioritize testing of first responders and health care workers.”DHHS emphasizes that current testing guidance for health care providers prioritizes the following patients for COVID-19 testing:<ol>
 <li>Hospitalized patients with a clinical presentation consistent with COVID-19</li><li>Health care workers</li><li>Public Safety/First Responders (EMS, law enforcement, firefighters)</li><li>Residents and staff at nursing homes</li><li>Residents and staff at group homes, homeless shelters, and child care facilities</li><li>People over 65 years old</li><li>Anyone with underlying conditions where a COVID-19 infection could result in severe illness or death</li>
 </ol>People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone. An order from a physician or public health is needed to receive a test.As testing availability continues to increase, DHHS will provide additional information on where Nebraskans can receive testing at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2ODM3NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmRoaHMubmUuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzIn0.mJENaUZhxh2KSTEKg_yGDMiXpc9zv5qrDdRq6vYjHss%2Fbr%2F76988678328-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cfff61d5089a0450567a908d7d7569665%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214639206166652&amp;sdata=4W41FlNrVGGL%2B5TPnuYIEPYy9pQYaWrn%2B%2Ftdrg0kOME%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as it has new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cfff61d5089a0450567a908d7d7569665%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214639206166652&amp;sdata=TMgEW6pIqyp6q0xWXuG7%2F9p%2FwYTlN17Ksoup1cnq39k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Updated COVID-19 testing information for people and providers

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Thursday defended his refusal to issue a stay-at-home order for residents, arguing that it isn't necessary for Nebraska even though 40 other governors have done so to try to keep the new coronavirus from spreading.

Ricketts said he doesn't plan to deviate from his current approach, which includes a statewide, non-enforceable recommendation that residents avoid gatherings with more than 10 people.

The governor has taken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4c60a12dfff86c612b1b126b5fbcbede" target="_blank">a regional approach as well</a>, ordering bans on 10-person gatherings and forcing restaurants to close their dining rooms in areas where confirmed cases of the virus can't be traced. Those bans are now in place in 56 of Nebraska's 93 counties, accounting for well over two-thirds of the state's population and virtually all of its population centers.

Similar restrictions had commonly been in place in states that have issued stay-at-home orders.

At his weekday news briefing, Ricketts pushed back against arguments that Nebraska should join 40 other states with official shelter-in-place orders, saying it doesn't make sense to compare states with different needs and populations.

"These things aren't all apples to apples," he said.

Ricketts said some of Nebraska's rules are stricter than other states that have full shelter-in-place orders. He pointed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e5bac343ca91824ecd6c7699bf371183" target="_blank">Florida's statewide order, announced Wednesday</a>, which exempts religious services. Nebraska's 10-person limit doesn't include any such exemption, he said.

Ricketts, a former executive at TD Ameritrade, said forcing businesses to shutter when they can still safely operate won't necessarily keep the virus from spreading, particularly if companies are able to keep their workers separated. He said he expects confirmed cases to increase over the next several weeks as more people are tested, but he doesn't anticipate the same sharp jumps as other states.

He also argued that Nebraska has had more time to prepare because the virus was likely spreading in hard-hit states like Washington and New York long before officials realized it. Nebraska officials approved their plan in early March, before officials found the first case of the virus that couldn't be traced to an outside source.

Ricketts said the plan was developed with experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, one of three national biocontainment units that have cared for American citizens infected with Ebola and one of the national locations where&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0528b9431f28b3416401baeb2f973ab6" target="_blank">cruise ship passengers</a>&nbsp;were treated for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.

"Our plan is right for Nebraska," he said.

His comments came as the U.S. Department of Labor reported another record-setting surge in the number of unemployment&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5fefb4142083cb5f0ee9e532ea583ad6" target="_blank">claims filed in Nebraska</a>&nbsp;and nationally. More than 40,000 people in Nebraska have filed claims in the last two weeks as businesses have closed and laid off workers.

Nebraska Labor Commissioner John Albin said his office has received calls from businesses that workers are threatening to quit because they can get better pay under the expanded unemployment benefits signed by President Donald Trump. Albin said many workers mistakenly believe they can qualify for benefits if they quit, which isn't true.

The governor's comments also came as the Douglas County Health Department, which serves the state's largest city of Omaha, announced 13 new positive cases of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Ricketts ordered Nebraska schools to remain closed to students through May 31 as officials reported that the state's COVID-19 death toll has risen to five.

Students have been taking their lessons at home via online classes since schools began closing last month as the coronavirus pandemic spread through Nebraska. Ricketts' order, issued Wednesday, ensures the children won't be returning this school year to the close quarters of their classrooms.

For most people, COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">the coronavirus</a>, causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are among those particularly susceptible to more severe illness, including pneumonia.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts on Thursday defended his refusal to issue a stay-at-home order for residents, arguing that it isn't necessary for Nebraska even though 40 other governors have done so to try to keep the new coronavirus from spreading.Ricketts said he doesn't plan to deviate from his current approach, which includes a statewide, non-enforceable recommendation that residents avoid gatherings with more than 10 people.The governor has taken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4c60a12dfff86c612b1b126b5fbcbede" target="_blank">a regional approach as well</a>, ordering bans on 10-person gatherings and forcing restaurants to close their dining rooms in areas where confirmed cases of the virus can't be traced. Those bans are now in place in 56 of Nebraska's 93 counties, accounting for well over two-thirds of the state's population and virtually all of its population centers.Similar restrictions had commonly been in place in states that have issued stay-at-home orders.At his weekday news briefing, Ricketts pushed back against arguments that Nebraska should join 40 other states with official shelter-in-place orders, saying it doesn't make sense to compare states with different needs and populations."These things aren't all apples to apples," he said.Ricketts said some of Nebraska's rules are stricter than other states that have full shelter-in-place orders. He pointed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e5bac343ca91824ecd6c7699bf371183" target="_blank">Florida's statewide order, announced Wednesday</a>, which exempts religious services. Nebraska's 10-person limit doesn't include any such exemption, he said.Ricketts, a former executive at TD Ameritrade, said forcing businesses to shutter when they can still safely operate won't necessarily keep the virus from spreading, particularly if companies are able to keep their workers separated. He said he expects confirmed cases to increase over the next several weeks as more people are tested, but he doesn't anticipate the same sharp jumps as other states.He also argued that Nebraska has had more time to prepare because the virus was likely spreading in hard-hit states like Washington and New York long before officials realized it. Nebraska officials approved their plan in early March, before officials found the first case of the virus that couldn't be traced to an outside source.Ricketts said the plan was developed with experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, one of three national biocontainment units that have cared for American citizens infected with Ebola and one of the national locations where&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0528b9431f28b3416401baeb2f973ab6" target="_blank">cruise ship passengers</a>&nbsp;were treated for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus."Our plan is right for Nebraska," he said.His comments came as the U.S. Department of Labor reported another record-setting surge in the number of unemployment&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5fefb4142083cb5f0ee9e532ea583ad6" target="_blank">claims filed in Nebraska</a>&nbsp;and nationally. More than 40,000 people in Nebraska have filed claims in the last two weeks as businesses have closed and laid off workers.Nebraska Labor Commissioner John Albin said his office has received calls from businesses that workers are threatening to quit because they can get better pay under the expanded unemployment benefits signed by President Donald Trump. Albin said many workers mistakenly believe they can qualify for benefits if they quit, which isn't true."That's not a valid plan," he said.The governor's comments also came as the Douglas County Health Department, which serves the state's largest city of Omaha, announced 13 new positive cases of COVID-19.Meanwhile, Ricketts ordered Nebraska schools to remain closed to students through May 31 as officials reported that the state's COVID-19 death toll has risen to five.Students have been taking their lessons at home via online classes since schools began closing last month as the coronavirus pandemic spread through Nebraska. Ricketts' order, issued Wednesday, ensures the children won't be returning this school year to the close quarters of their classrooms.For most people, COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">the coronavirus</a>, causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are among those particularly susceptible to more severe illness, including pneumonia.

Ricketts defends not ordering shelter-in-place in Nebraska

According to the CDC&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcases-updates%2Fcases-in-us.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575875651&amp;sdata=boOnGRr4jfxO49rVVXFYwQlI%2Fx1OPikTT8LtRaEF9CU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">website</a>, there are&nbsp;213,144&nbsp;COVID-19 cases in the United States and&nbsp;4,513&nbsp;deaths (Updated 4/1/2020). Cases have been reported in all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These statistics include both confirmed and presumptive positive cases of COVID-19.

Gov. Pete Ricketts’ Office&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://governor.nebraska.gov/</a>

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At his daily news conference, Gov. Ricketts emphasized that all schools in Nebraska will be operating without students through the rest of this school year. Extra-curricular activities for the spring season have been cancelled. In addition, Gov. Ricketts asked parents not to send their children to any club sports.

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp; The State of Nebraska has signed an agreement with the University of Nebraska System to provide rooms for people who need to quarantine or people who are recovering from COVID-19. The Governor thanked the university of Nebraska system for its great cooperation,

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts announced an update to his&nbsp;Executive Order that extends unemployment insurance. He reminded people to not quit their jobs in order to get unemployment. “If you quit your job, you are not eligible of unemployment benefits,” Ricketts said.

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;First Lady&nbsp;Susanne Shore,&nbsp;president of Nebraska Impact, gave an update on the&nbsp;Nebraska Impact COVID-19 Relief Fund&nbsp;which is&nbsp;a relief fund that will be directed to provide statewide assistance in communities across the state. The fund is&nbsp;a partnership between Nebraska impact, the Nebraska&nbsp;Children and Families Foundation and the Office of Gov. Pete Ricketts. The fund will provide direct aid to communities and organizations working to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak across Nebraska.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fneimpact.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575875651&amp;sdata=mdct6MpA9iP6NYmkBBHTBXBfzFG8FPXgCpZfAyMSsAo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">neimpact.org</a>&nbsp;to donate or for more information.

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts thanked telecommunications companies for stepping up in response to the COVID-19.

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The state’s eighth directed health measure was issued yesterday and include 15 additional counties in north and central Nebraska:&nbsp;Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock&nbsp;and&nbsp;Thomas&nbsp;counties. It will be in effect until May 11 unless renewed.&nbsp;There are now 56 counties the state’s directed a health care measure.

An alphabetical list of all counties under a DHM is available online&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink1" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;If you have concerns about a directed health measure contact your local health department or the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

TONIGHT&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts will answer questions from Nebraskans during another one-hour NET News town hall meeting about COVID-19 and the state’s response tonight at 8:30 p.m. CDT during&nbsp;Speaking of Nebraska: COVID-19 Town Hall with Governor Ricketts. The program is carried on television and radio by NET, Nebraska’s PBS and NPR Stations. It will also be streamed on the NET website, the NET Nebraska app and on Facebook. Viewers and listeners may ask questions during the town hall program by calling 1-800-676-5446 or 402-472-1212. Both before and during the broadcast, questions can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:news@netNebraska.org" target="_blank">news@netNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or submitted to the Facebook pages for&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2FnetNebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575885605&amp;sdata=qRia5VKVoHfx%2BP4W6ZCoGSx1ScyXow4RiEMazppODZI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET Nebraska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2FnetnewsNebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575885605&amp;sdata=m%2FYPKrz4QWyeoGOAJ8uk%2FnezKcdxi%2FzS9q%2BnPfj5iew%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET News</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNET-Radio-58056117013%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575895568&amp;sdata=Q7BSzijb1q5If7iWB%2FtJl6kQ4MSJtOPOZN%2FnnBXffxI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET Radio</a>.&nbsp;Questions can also be submitted via Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #COVID19Nebraska.

Department of Health and Human Services&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink7" target="_blank">COVID-19 Information</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/News-Releases.aspx" target="_blank">DHHS News Releases</a>

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp; DHHS&nbsp;.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) data dashboard provides daily updates to the state’s COVID-19 case totals and is online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMzAuMTk0NjM1MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.eTy2PTS9o1QiN1rux90KdxbP6yktKiBS_YAJWOnqbNc%2Fbr%2F76773409240-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575895568&amp;sdata=y6xUR4yE21YTA3DgvIpvjMBDKVeOcyXh9jTm24gTeP8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>

As of April 2 at noon, the current case numbers for Nebraska are:

Numbers now include negative results from NPHL and commercial labs. Both state and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up-to-date.

DHHS now provide daily updates to the state’s COVID-19 case totals, visit the new data dashboard at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjcuMTkzNzE3OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.1JmASbHz1FZKzyf6-vc-susjHOz4en8cGpV8NbQKSeY%2Fbr%2F76692668907-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575905518&amp;sdata=xNKJ3y1YcYRl4vkGAXk%2FIOkJ23IwRoDVjO0OmNTe5aU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus</a>.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska COVID-19 Information Line:&nbsp;(402) 552-6645.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hours are:&nbsp;8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST – every day.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State agencies are sharing information using the&nbsp;#NECOVID19 Hashtag

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS has produced COVID-19 announcements available in&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DPb-4Ntbfz-s%26feature%3Dyoutu.be&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575905518&amp;sdata=gt45wQaHDuVR3SBUVM8haL%2Bdxk8c6Gr4f1GDNCLRDz4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">English</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DpgrXzj9Th7M&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575915472&amp;sdata=b5bCoZj5rOMlHY3N%2BfeEcS0%2BJDzu8ufejvlMssdMQdk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">En Español</a>

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Health Care Provider Information&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Health-Alert-Network.aspx" target="_blank">(HAN)</a>

Nebraska Emergency Management Agency &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://nema.nebraska.gov/news" target="_blank">https://nema.nebraska.gov/news</a>

REMINDER&nbsp;There is no essential staffing list maintained by the State of Nebraska for people who have jobs to perform. Individuals leaving their homes in order to perform an activity or function for their jobs&nbsp;DO NOT&nbsp;need to carry or present any letter, identification card or other paper proving that they are allowed to leave their home.

NEMA continues to operate the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) with daily conference calls among the emergency support function coordinators and public information officers. NEMA also is working to support DHHS as the lead agency in the COVID-19 response in Nebraska.

Attorney General’s Office&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/coronavirus-consumer-protection" target="_blank">COVID-19 Information</a>

PSA from the FBI:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ic3.gov%2Fmedia%2F2020%2F200401.aspx&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575915472&amp;sdata=8kaGRWDFwusb3E0ss0IdXLyvBzOXkvy0%2FsgN8s2kfVg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Cyber Actors Take Advantage of COVID-19 Pandemic to Exploit Increased use of Virtual Environments</a>

Scammers and others may use COVID-19 as an opportunity to defraud Nebraskans. Learn more about potential&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/coronavirus-consumer-protection" target="_blank">COVID-19 scams</a>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">ProtectTheGoodLife.Nebraska.Gov</a>. If you suspect fraud, file a&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/file-consumer-complaint" target="_blank">consumer complaint</a>&nbsp;or send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ago.consumer@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ago.consumer@nebraska.gov</a>.

Department of Agriculture (NDA)&nbsp;<a href="http://nda.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">nda.nebraska.gov</a>

NDA has a COVID-19 webpage available to the public with information pertaining to agricultural producers. Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://nda.nebraska.gov/COVID-19" target="_blank">nda.nebraska.gov/COVID-19</a>&nbsp;for more information.

<a href="https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/about/covid-19-consumer-and-industry-guidance" target="_blank">https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/about/covid-19-consumer-and-industry-guidance</a>

NEW&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts signed Executive Order 2020-13 on April 1 and it provides regulatory flexibility to financial institutions under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance.&nbsp;The order gives the department flexibility on conducting installment loan company exams, temporarily extends the time for financial institutions to submit annual audits, and enables the department to accept various applications in electronic format. The order also authorizes the Nebraska Secretary of State to immediately implement the online Notary Act.&nbsp;

Department of Corrections&nbsp;<a href="file://stn/stnedfs$/NEMAHome$/jodie.fawl/~Documents/COVID-19/corrections.nebraska.gov" target="_blank">corrections.nebraska.gov</a>

NDCS has a COVID-19 webpage available to the public with information pertaining to the agency’s response to the virus. Go to&nbsp;<a href="file://stn/stnedfs$/NEMAHome$/jodie.fawl/~Documents/COVID-19/corrections.nebraska.gov" target="_blank">corrections.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Department of Economic Development&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19/" target="_blank">https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/nded-covid19/</a>

DED is working to inform and assist businesses during Nebraska’s ongoing response to COVID-19. Information for businesses is available on the DED website. DED is committed to serving Nebraskans facing financial challenges during this time, and understands that local economic leaders will play an important role in creating regional solutions for businesses and their workforce. The department’s Field Services Team is working with business leaders in these regions to address ongoing COVID-19 challenges.&nbsp;

Department of Environment and Energy&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/" target="_blank">http://dee.ne.gov</a>

NDEE has developed a COVID-19 information webpage that includes a message from the Director, links to state and federal resources, and NDEE-related issues.&nbsp; Webpage address is:&nbsp;<a href="http://deq.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/onWeb/COVID" target="_blank">http://deq.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/onWeb/COVID</a>

Today, the NDOI issued a notice to all insurance producers stating that a 90-day temporary resident insurance license will be issued to Nebraska insurance producers who fulfill the requirements.

<a href="https://doi.nebraska.gov/news/notice-temporary-nebraska-resident-producer-license" target="_blank">https://doi.nebraska.gov/news/notice-temporary-nebraska-resident-producer-license</a>

Department of Labor&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://dol.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dol.nebraska.gov</a>

NEW&nbsp;Gov. Ricketts announced an update to his&nbsp;Executive Order that extends unemployment insurance waivers through August 1. He reminded people to not quit their jobs in order to get unemployment. “If you quit your job, you are not eligible of unemployment benefits,” Ricketts said.

The federal CARES Act created a temporary program that offers benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits including the self-employed, independent contractors, gig workers, and others. This act also increases the amount an individual will receive by $600 for every week an individual is unemployed. Once the Department receive guidance from the Federal Government, all individuals who qualify will receive $600 in additional benefits for each eligible week of unemployment, including prior weeks.

Department of Motor Vehicles&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://dmv.nebraska.gov/about/news-releases" target="_blank">DMV news releases</a>

Department of Revenue&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjQuMTkyMzIyNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3JldmVudWUubmVicmFza2EuZ292L3NpdGVzL3JldmVudWUubmVicmFza2EuZ292L2ZpbGVzL2RvYy9sZWdhbC9ydWxpbmdzL3JyOTkyMDFfc2lnbmF0dXJlX3JlcXVpcmVtZW50cy5wZGYifQ.fYy-J_jZS69OPZHZ4ljuLh9rGzKdErbx1aOqHKs5e7w%2Fbr%2F76553325640-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575925427&amp;sdata=8GPPRmfhfaAy3tAoV2E0hAB3gS6xFnHaKFMgMr9RcQ8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Revenue Ruling 99-20-1: All Nebraska Taxes, Signature Requirements</a>

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjcuMTk0MjE4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3JldmVudWUubmVicmFza2EuZ292L2Fib3V0L2VsZWN0cm9uaWNhbGx5LWZpbGUteW91ci1wcm90ZXN0In0.nLIjR7Nkl9cffGVggZqtg8H8ulBUZ3HG2-XDXZhcJiI%2Fbr%2F76738366598-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575935394&amp;sdata=%2FCBW62SQa7JyF0qGfKR8rfEaTO6pq%2BFnSH44v8zy3S0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">You can now file your Petition for Redetermination (Protest) Electronically</a>.&nbsp;This applies to Notices of Deficiency Determinations issued by the Nebraska Department of Revenue (DOR).&nbsp;This does not apply to protests or appeals filed with the Property Assessment Division.

The Nebraska Department of Revenue (DOR) has issued new guidance with specific instructions and information regarding signature requirements, which will assist taxpayers, especially in situations where the individuals responsible for signing tax returns are working from home to prevent the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;For most forms and filings,&nbsp;for which there is no separate DOR taxpayer filing system, DOR will accept as a taxpayer signature, any mark, handwritten or digitally rendered that is applied with actual or apparent intention to authenticate the filing.&nbsp;More information is available at the Nebraska Department of Revenue website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.revenue.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">revenue.nebraska.gov</a>; or contact the Department by email or phone&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/about/contact-us" target="_blank">here.</a>

Lottery&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnelottery.com%2Fhomeapp%2Farticle%2F4220%2Fdisplay&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575945348&amp;sdata=Rycj4I%2BRXomjRz6xa0JAApuVjpvx%2BZrfNSpwSzjeXR0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://nelottery.com/homeapp/article/4220/display</a>

Nebraska Lottery players with prizes up to $19,999 are encouraged to claim by mail. Instructions for claiming prizes by mail can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnelottery.com%2Fhomeapp%2Farticle%2F4220%2Fdisplay&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575945348&amp;sdata=Rycj4I%2BRXomjRz6xa0JAApuVjpvx%2BZrfNSpwSzjeXR0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://nelottery.com/homeapp/article/4220/display</a>&nbsp;Regional Lottery Claim Centers in Grand Island, Norfolk, North Platte, and Scottsbluff are closed to the public, but Nebraska Lottery headquarters in Lincoln and the Omaha Claim Center are open. Call 402-471-6100 to confirm office hours before claiming a prize in person at these locations.

Department of Natural Resources&nbsp;(NeDNR) remains open for business

The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources has activated a continuity-of-business plan to keep team members and the public safe during this pandemic. Team members who can work remotely are doing so at this time. Those who need to access the office are practicing social distancing and alternating work days.

We continue to be open for business; however, due to these events, there may be times when certain messages take a little longer to return. Please be patient and know that your message will be returned as quickly as possible. We are working to ensure continuity of contracting efforts and timely payment of eligible reimbursement payments under contracts and encourage that contractors send electronic versions of documents to expedite processing.

Our agency also continues to ensure that critical water related information remains available (see&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.nebraska.gov/)" target="_blank">https://dnr.nebraska.gov/)</a>. It is being updated continuously, including real-time streamgaging information.

The NDVA State Service Office, located at 40th and Old Cheney in Lincoln, is closed for in-person visits and cannot take walk-ins for the time being. However, state service officers are still available to help veterans and their family members file claims. Call 402-420-4021 and we will work with you to gather documentation, submit claims, answer questions, and help however we can.

Game and Parks Commission&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhealthinfo%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575955301&amp;sdata=HoLfTtVKfjKCij3fa7wwtfLaCb0V%2FSpJzLgIi2mfPgg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://outdoornebraska.gov/healthinfo/</a>

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will prohibit overnight camping at state parks, state recreation areas and wildlife management areas starting Monday, April 6 through Friday, May 8, with a possible extension.In addition, the closure of state park area lodging and cabins will be extended through May 8.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recommends travelers coming to Nebraska or back to Nebraska from out-of-state should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing, self-monitor for symptoms and self-quarantine for 14 days.State parks and recreation areas will remain open for day use so guests may enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, biking and wildlife viewing while maintaining proper physical distancing of at least six feet. A limited number of restrooms, which will be disinfected regularly using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocols, will be available.The closures are in keeping with national recommendations from the CDC; cities and states across the nation are taking similar proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Game and Parks’ top priority is the health and well-being of the public and its staff.Refunds will be given to campers who have prepaid fees. The camping closure will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary.Those still enjoying outdoor recreation should follow CDC guidelines. They include staying home for people who are sick, have knowingly been exposed to a sick individual or are coming from any area of community spread of the virus. People also should avoid crowds, adhere to the 10-person-limit guideline, and bring supplies from home, including food and hygiene products, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer.For a list of all Game and Parks cancellations, postponements and closures, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.xqPz8tkb8631ncm4F6i9BabZYIZLHiBOacvx38Tj1hs%2Fbr%2F76962883950-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575955301&amp;sdata=BW7lQ7HuanmhEeMH%2Bc5R1kzZ3jqsKo4roeCsibu%2BchY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>.&nbsp;For more detailed information about how coronavirus cancellations may affect customers, check the Frequently Asked Questions page at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb3ZpZDE5ZmFxcy8ifQ.cQXZCsHGQ1b7u5Lxy1I_OXLVcgpkP5MwpbwKhCCVFxQ%2Fbr%2F76962883950-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575955301&amp;sdata=hdqWydy9wbV98i05iXZXgnVL%2FiQWlAwZOXybhLX7vic%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/covid19faqs</a>&nbsp;or use the Contact Us form at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb250YWN0LyJ9.sOLbmYRqdndBbEieSYn-PJi_03P9_gyUG1OL6K_2VtA%2Fbr%2F76962883950-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575965258&amp;sdata=5V%2BlIWRG%2FplPZVfU8PSoXl8iiJPYQsZ8Qcde5zLz%2BMI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/contact</a>. Past news release are available online:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmagazine.outdoornebraska.gov%2Fcategory%2Fnews%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575965258&amp;sdata=xCajfl2FQrfKi%2B3dBIIrGKPyTClZL3BVzB0UMfOLTok%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://magazine.outdoornebraska.gov/category/news/</a>

Please do not contact local units or the Nebraska National Guard headquarters directly with requests for assistance.

Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH)

NEW&nbsp;&nbsp; NCDHH has the following VLOGs online relating to COVID-19:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D4dAkpPUQ59o%26t%3D15s&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575975218&amp;sdata=I8FSBzmJ%2FNKhdT1TBppw85%2BeeD6v57QxgkdXEP%2FKR14%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19: Educational Resources &amp; Communication Access</a>&nbsp;NCDHH Executive Director&nbsp;John&nbsp;Wyvill&nbsp;discusses the importance of ensuring you and your child are prepared and receiving education information during transition to remote-learning.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DNr7q1SvtvoM&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575975218&amp;sdata=VS%2BRPnO1hVZVugiKDI%2BjnsT9lURFXFtR5Vl22%2F%2BCqMU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Organizations Stress Importance of Communication Access</a>&nbsp;NCDHH Behavioral Health Coordinator&nbsp;Carly Weyers&nbsp;provides information on how to best keep informed with full communication access on announcements related to COVID-19.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DzOrp_WwJEg4&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575975218&amp;sdata=078L7BBOZnBLFHbxK67do2yRAFox%2B4mWUxY77nBwREo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19: NCDHH Offices and Social Distancing</a>&nbsp;Information regarding preventative measures to keep you and the NCDHH team healthy featuring Behavioral Health Coordinator, Carly Weyers.

The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) continues to encourage drivers to follow all traffic laws. Any motorist can report a dangerous driver by calling the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555.

Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office

Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Unclaimed Property Division offices are closed to the public. Treasurer’s Office staff are available by phone at 402-471-8497 or 877-572-9688 and will continue to process claims mailed into the Lincoln office or filed online.

Office of the Chief Information Officer&nbsp;<a href="https://cio.nebraska.gov/news/pressreleases/index.html" target="_blank">Website</a>

Malicious cyber threat actors are capitalizing on the global attention surrounding COVID-19 to facilitate scams, distribute malware, and send phishing emails. We ask all Nebraskans to practice the following safe security habits online:

Homeland Security is encouraging state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments to reference known official resources on COVID-19 information. Members can read more about COVID-19 related scams at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) resource&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.consumer.ftc.gov%2Fblog%2F2020%2F02%2Fcoronavirus-scammers-follow-headlines&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594575995129&amp;sdata=A68tSBbSvLmWUAxIsftAuX1Xo0BPpjRQu%2B3ECZIUefc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here</a>.

Please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/administration/nebraska-public-service-commission-covid-19-information-guidance" target="_blank">PSC COVID-19 Information &amp; Guidance</a>&nbsp;page for the latest from the Nebraska Public Service Commission.

NEW&nbsp;<a>Blood donation is essential to ensuring the health of our communities. The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need.</a>

Information for members of the League Association of Risk Management (LARM)

LARM announced a new program that provides funds to LARM members whose volunteer firefighters and rescue squad members are required to be in quarantine as a result of exposure in the line of duty to the coronavirus.

LARM Loss Control Manager&nbsp;Dave Bos&nbsp;states that LARM will pay $120 per day for a volunteer exposed to COVID-19 in the line of duty while providing firefighting or rescue squad services for a LARM member for a quarantine period of up to 10 days. The total amount allotted by LARM for this program is $1 million.

LARM Board&nbsp;Chair Doug Hanson&nbsp;states that the COVID-19 Volunteer Emergency Responder Assistance Program is being implemented to help volunteers who may come into contact with COVID-19 on rescue calls.

“Volunteer firefighters and rescue squad members are on the frontline of the coronavirus disease in our Nebraska communities,” said Hanson. “They can’t afford to miss work because of a required quarantine as a result of a rescue call. As a risk management pool for 171 governmental entities across Nebraska, we hope to provide needed assistance for these communities.

For more information go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.larmpool.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea4855590ca4c18bcfa08d7d74c3296%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637214594576005083&amp;sdata=n5NW2H0HqoU4URHKjCcOyLtMH6jxBbIuLG5nAKW%2B7TA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.larmpool.org</a>.

Nebraska Joint Information Center daily update (April 2, 2020)

URBANDALE, Iowa – April 2, 2020 – The Powerball Product Group today announced its decision to determine Powerball’s advertised jackpot based on game sales and interest rates. Following the April 8 drawing, guaranteed starting jackpot amounts and minimum jackpot increases will be eliminated, and future jackpot increases will be determined and announced by the Product Group prior to each drawing. Previously, Powerball® jackpots started at $40 million (annuity) and increased by a minimum of $10 million (annuity) between drawings.

“These changes are necessary to ensure that ticket sales can support the Powerball jackpot and other lower-tier cash prizes,” said Gregg Mineo, Powerball Product Group Chairman and Maine Lottery Director. “Our number one priority is making sure that the Powerball game can continue to assist lotteries in raising proceeds for their beneficiaries.”

The Powerball Product Group announced plans last week to reduce the starting jackpot to $20 million (annuity) and minimum jackpot increases to $2 million (annuity) between drawings. Those changes were scheduled to go into effect after the current jackpot was won. However, due to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, the Powerball Product Group revisited the topic and decided Powerball’s advertised jackpot should be determined by game sales and interest rates effective following the drawing next Wednesday.

“Since last week, more states and cities have asked their residents to stay at home, which has affected normal consumer behaviors and Powerball game sales,” said Mineo. “In response to the public health crisis, interest rates have declined. As a result, additional game sales are necessary to fund comparable jackpot amounts.”

The advertised Powerball jackpot for Saturday’s drawing is a guaranteed $180 million. If the jackpot rolls, it will grow to a guaranteed $190 million for the April 8 drawing. If the jackpot is won on Saturday night, it will reset to a guaranteed $20 million for the April 8 drawing and continue to grow based off sales and interest rates.

Powerball tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are broadcast live every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $740 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

URBANDALE, Iowa – April 2, 2020 – The Powerball Product Group today announced its decision to determine Powerball’s advertised jackpot based on game sales and interest rates. Following the April 8 drawing, guaranteed starting jackpot amounts and minimum jackpot increases will be eliminated, and future jackpot increases will be determined and announced by the Product Group prior to each drawing. Previously, Powerball® jackpots started at $40 million (annuity) and increased by a minimum of $10 million (annuity) between drawings.“These changes are necessary to ensure that ticket sales can support the Powerball jackpot and other lower-tier cash prizes,” said Gregg Mineo, Powerball Product Group Chairman and Maine Lottery Director. “Our number one priority is making sure that the Powerball game can continue to assist lotteries in raising proceeds for their beneficiaries.”The Powerball Product Group announced plans last week to reduce the starting jackpot to $20 million (annuity) and minimum jackpot increases to $2 million (annuity) between drawings. Those changes were scheduled to go into effect after the current jackpot was won. However, due to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, the Powerball Product Group revisited the topic and decided Powerball’s advertised jackpot should be determined by game sales and interest rates effective following the drawing next Wednesday.“Since last week, more states and cities have asked their residents to stay at home, which has affected normal consumer behaviors and Powerball game sales,” said Mineo. “In response to the public health crisis, interest rates have declined. As a result, additional game sales are necessary to fund comparable jackpot amounts.”The advertised Powerball jackpot for Saturday’s drawing is a guaranteed $180 million. If the jackpot rolls, it will grow to a guaranteed $190 million for the April 8 drawing. If the jackpot is won on Saturday night, it will reset to a guaranteed $20 million for the April 8 drawing and continue to grow based off sales and interest rates.Powerball tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are broadcast live every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $740 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Game sales and interest rates to determine advertised Powerball jackpot

CHADRON – Chadron State College President Randy Rhine announced Wednesday that&nbsp;<a>Spring</a>&nbsp;Commencement will be postponed to a summer date to be determined in accordance with restrictions on group events in Gov. Pete Ricketts’s Directed Health Measure.

In 2008, a major snowstorm forced CSC to revise end-of-the-year festivities. Ivy Day was moved from Friday night to noon Saturday. The graduation ceremony for students receiving master’s degrees and&nbsp;the ceremony for undergraduates were each delayed by several hours.

According to longtime CSC historian Con Marshall, no CSC graduation exercises have been canceled in recent history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585854065130.jpeg" alt="The platform party convenes in Memorial Hall for Chadron State College's graduate commencement Dec. 13, 2019. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>The platform party convenes in Memorial Hall for Chadron State College's graduate commencement Dec. 13, 2019. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CSC College RelationsCHADRON – Chadron State College President Randy Rhine announced Wednesday that&nbsp;<a>Spring</a>&nbsp;Commencement will be postponed to a summer date to be determined in accordance with restrictions on group events in Gov. Pete Ricketts’s Directed Health Measure.In 2008, a major snowstorm forced CSC to revise end-of-the-year festivities. Ivy Day was moved from Friday night to noon Saturday. The graduation ceremony for students receiving master’s degrees and&nbsp;the ceremony for undergraduates were each delayed by several hours.According to longtime CSC historian Con Marshall, no CSC graduation exercises have been canceled in recent history.

CSC Commencement postponed due to COVID-19 concerns

North Platte Community College lost one of its pioneers this week. Virgil Nelson died Monday at the age of 86.

Nelson&nbsp;was one of the first two instructors hired when the college was formed. He was present when the doors opened Aug. 31, 1965 on what was then the North Platte Junior College.

Nelson grew up on a farm nine miles from Wausa. He graduated from Wausa High School in 1951 with multiple scholarships.

Because of that, his parents urged him to forego his plans of returning to the family farm in favor of attending college. Nelson enrolled in Luther Junior College in Wahoo, but his stay was short-lived.

“April of 1953 came along, and I got a draft notice saying I was to report for a physical,” Nelson said in an interview years later. “I went and passed. I didn’t bother applying for a deferment, and late that summer I went into the Army. I was in the service one year, 11 months and eight days. The first six months were spent at Camp Chaffee in Arkansas - then it was on to Korea.”

Nelson served in Korea from September of 1953 to August of 1955. His time in the Army made him think about his future and what he wanted to do with his life. The GI Bill made postsecondary education easier than ever.

“I got $110 per month, and it was tax-free,” said Nelson. “Back then, that was quite adequate. It took care of room and board and books. I even had a little left over for gas.”

Nelson began taking classes at Wayne State College at Wayne in Sept. of 1955, majoring in math and physical science.

“I knew exactly what I wanted to do,” said Nelson. “There weren’t many going into math at that point. It was a good move because if you had a degree in math and wanted to teach, you could just about pick any state, and there was a vacancy.”

Nelson graduated in 1957. He was planning to pursue his education further because the GI Bill was still available, but those plans got put on hold when he received a call from a superintendent at the Arcadia Public Schools.

“They needed a math teacher, and I said, ‘I don’t think so.’ Well, the next night the superintendent called back, claiming he couldn’t find anyone else to fill the position,” Nelson said. “I told him I would come out and look. Arcadia had about 420 people at the time, and a real nice school building. In fact, it was the nicest building in town.”

Nelson accepted the job for that semester, then ended up staying another seven years. He taught math, physics and chemistry at the high school, and took summers sessions at the University of Northern Colorado, in Greeley, Colo. He earned a master’s degree in mathematics from the university in 1960.

One day, while reading the Omaha World-Herald, Nelson stumbled across an article announcing that a junior college was going to be built in North Platte.

A friend of his, a math teacher at Gothenburg, had applied for a teaching job at the college and was accepted. However, the Gothenburg superintendent left, and because Nelson’s friend also had an administrative degree, the superintendent job was offered to him.

“He asked the administrators at the junior college if he could be released from that job, and they said, ‘If you can find a replacement’,” Nelson said. “So, he gave them my name.”

He taught his first class at the North Platte Junior College in 1965 and stayed for 31 years.

“Naturally, the school grew over time,” Nelson said. “We started out in the old federal building downtown, then moved to South Campus when the McDonald-Belton Building was constructed in the mid-’70s. It was also in the ’70s that a law was passed merging technical schools with academic colleges. As a result, we all came under one umbrella.”

The merger was the start of the Mid-Plains Community College Area. McCook Junior College, the state’s oldest two-year college, North Platte Junior College and the Mid-Plains Vocational Technical School, were combined.

Campus expansions and a restructuring of the system weren’t the only changes Nelson witnessed over the years. Technology also evolved tremendously.

“The biggest advancement I saw was in the use of computers,” Nelson said. “When I started at the college, the computer was in its infancy. The tech campus got a computer in 1970. I got a little experience with it then taught computer programming alongside math for about five years. By the late ’80s, every office had a personal computer.”

<a>Marilyn McGahan, former NPCC vice president, worked with Nelson as a fellow instructor up until Nelson’s retirement in 1996.</a>

“As an instructor, Virgil was exceptional,” McGahan said. “His personal standards were high, and he expected the same of his students and his fellow instructors. Over the years, he mentored many new faculty members. He did more than teach - he loved the college and was involved in many committees, projects and activities throughout his entire career at NPCC.”

Perhaps it was Nelson’s personality, however, that made him the most endearing.

“No one could tell stories like Virgil - hilariously funny, very descriptive, yet never making fun of anyone,” McGahan said. “He made us laugh.”

Ron Axtell, the college’s former director of physical resources, has similar memories of Nelson. He and Nelson were neighbors.

“Virgil was personable, friendly and always had a story to tell,” Axtell said. “He was always out tending to his garden. He liked to keep busy.”

Carol Aten was neighbors with Nelson, too, and her husband worked with him at the college. Her fondest memories of Nelson are also of him in his garden and of the stories he told.

“He always had lots of stories. Sometimes they were the same stories,” Aten said with a laugh. “Virgil was just a farmer at heart. He would come around every fall with tomatoes and would say, ‘If you don’t take these, I’m going to go out and throw them at cars.’ It was the same thing every year. Two days before he went into the hospital, he knocked on my back door and had a question about trimming trees. He was getting ready for spring and planting season.”

Additional memories of Nelson can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.carpentermemorial.com/" target="_blank">carpentermemorial.com</a>. A celebration of life service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the North Platte Community College Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585853945213.jpeg" alt="Virgil Nelson stands outside the McDonald-Belton Building on NPCC’s South Campus. Nelson passed away on Monday." />
 <figcaption>Virgil Nelson stands outside the McDonald-Belton Building on NPCC’s South Campus. Nelson passed away on Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCNorth Platte Community College lost one of its pioneers this week. Virgil Nelson died Monday at the age of 86.Nelson&nbsp;was one of the first two instructors hired when the college was formed. He was present when the doors opened Aug. 31, 1965 on what was then the North Platte Junior College.The early daysNelson grew up on a farm nine miles from Wausa. He graduated from Wausa High School in 1951 with multiple scholarships.Because of that, his parents urged him to forego his plans of returning to the family farm in favor of attending college. Nelson enrolled in Luther Junior College in Wahoo, but his stay was short-lived.“April of 1953 came along, and I got a draft notice saying I was to report for a physical,” Nelson said in an interview years later. “I went and passed. I didn’t bother applying for a deferment, and late that summer I went into the Army. I was in the service one year, 11 months and eight days. The first six months were spent at Camp Chaffee in Arkansas - then it was on to Korea.”Nelson served in Korea from September of 1953 to August of 1955. His time in the Army made him think about his future and what he wanted to do with his life. The GI Bill made postsecondary education easier than ever.“I got $110 per month, and it was tax-free,” said Nelson. “Back then, that was quite adequate. It took care of room and board and books. I even had a little left over for gas.”Nelson began taking classes at Wayne State College at Wayne in Sept. of 1955, majoring in math and physical science.“I knew exactly what I wanted to do,” said Nelson. “There weren’t many going into math at that point. It was a good move because if you had a degree in math and wanted to teach, you could just about pick any state, and there was a vacancy.”Nelson graduated in 1957. He was planning to pursue his education further because the GI Bill was still available, but those plans got put on hold when he received a call from a superintendent at the Arcadia Public Schools.“They needed a math teacher, and I said, ‘I don’t think so.’ Well, the next night the superintendent called back, claiming he couldn’t find anyone else to fill the position,” Nelson said. “I told him I would come out and look. Arcadia had about 420 people at the time, and a real nice school building. In fact, it was the nicest building in town.”Nelson accepted the job for that semester, then ended up staying another seven years. He taught math, physics and chemistry at the high school, and took summers sessions at the University of Northern Colorado, in Greeley, Colo. He earned a master’s degree in mathematics from the university in 1960.Joining the NPCC familyOne day, while reading the Omaha World-Herald, Nelson stumbled across an article announcing that a junior college was going to be built in North Platte.A friend of his, a math teacher at Gothenburg, had applied for a teaching job at the college and was accepted. However, the Gothenburg superintendent left, and because Nelson’s friend also had an administrative degree, the superintendent job was offered to him.“He asked the administrators at the junior college if he could be released from that job, and they said, ‘If you can find a replacement’,” Nelson said. “So, he gave them my name.”He taught his first class at the North Platte Junior College in 1965 and stayed for 31 years.“Naturally, the school grew over time,” Nelson said. “We started out in the old federal building downtown, then moved to South Campus when the McDonald-Belton Building was constructed in the mid-’70s. It was also in the ’70s that a law was passed merging technical schools with academic colleges. As a result, we all came under one umbrella.”The merger was the start of the Mid-Plains Community College Area. McCook Junior College, the state’s oldest two-year college, North Platte Junior College and the Mid-Plains Vocational Technical School, were combined.Campus expansions and a restructuring of the system weren’t the only changes Nelson witnessed over the years. Technology also evolved tremendously.“The biggest advancement I saw was in the use of computers,” Nelson said. “When I started at the college, the computer was in its infancy. The tech campus got a computer in 1970. I got a little experience with it then taught computer programming alongside math for about five years. By the late ’80s, every office had a personal computer.”<a>Marilyn McGahan, former NPCC vice president, worked with Nelson as a fellow instructor up until Nelson’s retirement in 1996.</a>“As an instructor, Virgil was exceptional,” McGahan said. “His personal standards were high, and he expected the same of his students and his fellow instructors. Over the years, he mentored many new faculty members. He did more than teach - he loved the college and was involved in many committees, projects and activities throughout his entire career at NPCC.”Perhaps it was Nelson’s personality, however, that made him the most endearing.“No one could tell stories like Virgil - hilariously funny, very descriptive, yet never making fun of anyone,” McGahan said. “He made us laugh.”Ron Axtell, the college’s former director of physical resources, has similar memories of Nelson. He and Nelson were neighbors.“Virgil was personable, friendly and always had a story to tell,” Axtell said. “He was always out tending to his garden. He liked to keep busy.”Carol Aten was neighbors with Nelson, too, and her husband worked with him at the college. Her fondest memories of Nelson are also of him in his garden and of the stories he told.“He always had lots of stories. Sometimes they were the same stories,” Aten said with a laugh. “Virgil was just a farmer at heart. He would come around every fall with tomatoes and would say, ‘If you don’t take these, I’m going to go out and throw them at cars.’ It was the same thing every year. Two days before he went into the hospital, he knocked on my back door and had a question about trimming trees. He was getting ready for spring and planting season.”Additional memories of Nelson can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.carpentermemorial.com/" target="_blank">carpentermemorial.com</a>. A celebration of life service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the North Platte Community College Foundation.

MPCC bids farewell to long-time instructor

LINCOLN, Neb. – In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will prohibit overnight camping at state parks, state recreation areas and wildlife management areas starting Monday, April 6 through Friday, May 8, with a possible extension.

In addition, the closure of state park area lodging and cabins will be extended through May 8.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recommends travelers coming to Nebraska or back to Nebraska from out-of-state should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing, self-monitor for symptoms, and self-quarantine for 14 days, if feasible.

State parks and recreation areas will remain open for day use so guests may enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, biking and wildlife viewing while maintaining proper physical distancing of at least 6 feet. A limited number of restrooms, which will be disinfected regularly using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocols, will be available.

The closures are in keeping with national recommendations from the CDC; cities and states across the nation are taking similar proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Game and Parks’ top priority is the health and well-being of the public and its staff.

Refunds will be given to campers who have prepaid fees. The camping closure will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary.

Those still enjoying outdoor recreation should follow CDC guidelines. They include staying home for people who are sick, have knowingly been exposed to a sick individual or are coming from any area of community spread of the virus. People also should avoid crowds, adhere to the 10-person-limit guideline, and bring supplies from home, including food and hygiene products, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer.

For a list of all Game and Parks cancellations, postponements and closures, go to <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.xqPz8tkb8631ncm4F6i9BabZYIZLHiBOacvx38Tj1hs/br/76962885697-l">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>. For more detailed information about how coronavirus cancellations may affect customers, check the Frequently Asked Questions page at <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb3ZpZDE5ZmFxcy8ifQ.cQXZCsHGQ1b7u5Lxy1I_OXLVcgpkP5MwpbwKhCCVFxQ/br/76962885697-l">OutdoorNebraska.gov/covid19faqs</a> or use the Contact Us form at <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb250YWN0LyJ9.sOLbmYRqdndBbEieSYn-PJi_03P9_gyUG1OL6K_2VtA/br/76962885697-l">OutdoorNebraska.gov/contact</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will prohibit overnight camping at state parks, state recreation areas and wildlife management areas starting Monday, April 6 through Friday, May 8, with a possible extension.In addition, the closure of state park area lodging and cabins will be extended through May 8.The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recommends travelers coming to Nebraska or back to Nebraska from out-of-state should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing, self-monitor for symptoms, and self-quarantine for 14 days, if feasible.State parks and recreation areas will remain open for day use so guests may enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, biking and wildlife viewing while maintaining proper physical distancing of at least 6 feet. A limited number of restrooms, which will be disinfected regularly using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocols, will be available.The closures are in keeping with national recommendations from the CDC; cities and states across the nation are taking similar proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Game and Parks’ top priority is the health and well-being of the public and its staff.Refunds will be given to campers who have prepaid fees. The camping closure will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary.Those still enjoying outdoor recreation should follow CDC guidelines. They include staying home for people who are sick, have knowingly been exposed to a sick individual or are coming from any area of community spread of the virus. People also should avoid crowds, adhere to the 10-person-limit guideline, and bring supplies from home, including food and hygiene products, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer.For a list of all Game and Parks cancellations, postponements and closures, go to <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.xqPz8tkb8631ncm4F6i9BabZYIZLHiBOacvx38Tj1hs/br/76962885697-l">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>. For more detailed information about how coronavirus cancellations may affect customers, check the Frequently Asked Questions page at <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb3ZpZDE5ZmFxcy8ifQ.cQXZCsHGQ1b7u5Lxy1I_OXLVcgpkP5MwpbwKhCCVFxQ/br/76962885697-l">OutdoorNebraska.gov/covid19faqs</a> or use the Contact Us form at <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDIuMTk2NjA0NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb250YWN0LyJ9.sOLbmYRqdndBbEieSYn-PJi_03P9_gyUG1OL6K_2VtA/br/76962885697-l">OutdoorNebraska.gov/contact</a>.

Game and Parks closing overnight camping April 6-May 8

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw another record-setting surge in unemployment claims last week as the new coronavirus forced more businesses to close and lay off workers, according to new data released Thursday.

The state received 24,572 unemployment claims during the week that ended March 29, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

The previous record of 15,700 was set in the prior week as state officials imposed tough new restrictions on businesses and residents hunkered down at home to keep the virus from spreading.

Nebraska has now had about 40,000 jobless claims in the last two weeks, which is about as many as it normally gets in a year.

The United States had 6.6 million unemployment claims last week, up from 3.3 million the week before.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw another record-setting surge in unemployment claims last week as the new coronavirus forced more businesses to close and lay off workers, according to new data released Thursday.The state received 24,572 unemployment claims during the week that ended March 29, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.The previous record of 15,700 was set in the prior week as state officials imposed tough new restrictions on businesses and residents hunkered down at home to keep the virus from spreading.Nebraska has now had about 40,000 jobless claims in the last two weeks, which is about as many as it normally gets in a year.The United States had 6.6 million unemployment claims last week, up from 3.3 million the week before.

Nebraska unemployment surges again as virus forces closures

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The governor has ordered Nebraska schools to remain closed to students through May 31 as officials reported that the state's COVID-19 death toll has risen to five.

Students have been taking their lessons at home via online classes since schools began closing last month as the coronavirus pandemic spread through Nebraska. Gov. Pete Ricketts' order, issued Wednesday, ensures the children won't be returning this school year to the close quarters of their classrooms.

The governor also canceled school extracurricular activities but said the closures don't apply to staff members working in school buildings.

The Nebraska Health and Human Services Department reported Wednesday night that the latest COVID-19 death was a Madison County woman in her 70s who had underlying health conditions.

The state's total number of confirmed cases has risen to 214, the department said. Nearly 3,600 people have tested negative.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The governor has ordered Nebraska schools to remain closed to students through May 31 as officials reported that the state's COVID-19 death toll has risen to five.Students have been taking their lessons at home via online classes since schools began closing last month as the coronavirus pandemic spread through Nebraska. Gov. Pete Ricketts' order, issued Wednesday, ensures the children won't be returning this school year to the close quarters of their classrooms.The governor also canceled school extracurricular activities but said the closures don't apply to staff members working in school buildings.The Nebraska Health and Human Services Department reported Wednesday night that the latest COVID-19 death was a Madison County woman in her 70s who had underlying health conditions.The state's total number of confirmed cases has risen to 214, the department said. Nearly 3,600 people have tested negative.For most people, COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak" target="_blank">the coronavirus</a>, causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are among those particularly susceptible to more severe illness, including pneumonia.Earlier Wednesday, Ricketts warned Nebraskans that they must help keep COVID-19 from spreading, but he reiterated that he won't impose a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4c60a12dfff86c612b1b126b5fbcbede" target="_blank">stay-at-home order</a>&nbsp;as many other states have done.It appears social distancing rules are preventing even larger case increases, Ricketts said, but "we have to do more" to avoid overloading the state's hospitals.Statewide, officials have urged residents not to have any social gathering larger than 10 people, but that request isn't legally enforceable.However, Ricketts has ordered more restrictive "directed health measures" to dozens of Nebraska's 93 counties, including 15 more he added Wednesday. The directed health measures impose the same 10-person limit, but people who refuse to comply can be charged with misdemeanors. The orders also require restaurants and bars in those areas to close their dining areas, but they can still offer takeout and delivery.

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