LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Officials say Nebraska's total of confirmed COVID-19 cases has risen to 81. 

The Nebraska Health and Human Services Department says 1,584 tests have come back negative. 

Officials also report that Nebraska's initial claims for unemployment benefits skyrocketed with the rest of the nation's amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The claims rose to nearly 16,000 last week from a little less than 800 the week before.

 In other coronavirus news, election officials say they still plan to hold the state's May 12 primary election as scheduled.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Officials say Nebraska's total of confirmed COVID-19 cases has risen to 81. The Nebraska Health and Human Services Department says 1,584 tests have come back negative. Officials also report that Nebraska's initial claims for unemployment benefits skyrocketed with the rest of the nation's amid the coronavirus pandemic. The claims rose to nearly 16,000 last week from a little less than 800 the week before. In other coronavirus news, election officials say they still plan to hold the state's May 12 primary election as scheduled.&nbsp;

Nebraska total of confirmed COVID-19 cases rises again

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The company that makes Major League Baseball uniforms has switched to producing masks and gowns in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Fanatics has suspended production on jerseys at its factory in Easton, Pennsylvania, and is instead using the polyester mesh fabric to make protective wear. The new gowns and masks will go to hospitals in Pennsylvania and nearby states. Fanatics hoped to produce nearly 15,000 masks and gowns a day.  The company is making Level 1 masks, used for low-risk, nonsurgical procedures that are for single-use only.

Hockey equipment manufacturer Bauer has shifted from making visors for helmets to medical visors for those fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The company did not close its plants when hockey leagues put their seasons on hold. Instead, Bauer changed its production. A group of engineers in Quebec brainstormed the idea of producing medical shields to protect people on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19. By the middle of this week, Bauer had roughly 100,000 devices ready for distribution. The company said its facility in Liverpool, New York, made 1,300 face shields Thursday with a goal of producing 2,000 more Friday and 4,000 daily next week.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The company that makes Major League Baseball uniforms has switched to producing masks and gowns in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Fanatics has suspended production on jerseys at its factory in Easton, Pennsylvania, and is instead using the polyester mesh fabric to make protective wear. The new gowns and masks will go to hospitals in Pennsylvania and nearby states. Fanatics hoped to produce nearly 15,000 masks and gowns a day. The company is making Level 1 masks, used for low-risk, nonsurgical procedures that are for single-use only.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585315794699.jpeg" alt="Fanatics sports wear company is turning jerseys into protective medical masks (Courtesy: Fanatics Twitter)" />
 <figcaption>Fanatics sports wear company is turning jerseys into protective medical masks (Courtesy: Fanatics Twitter)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hockey equipment manufacturer Bauer has shifted from making visors for helmets to medical visors for those fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The company did not close its plants when hockey leagues put their seasons on hold. Instead, Bauer changed its production. A group of engineers in Quebec brainstormed the idea of producing medical shields to protect people on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19. By the middle of this week, Bauer had roughly 100,000 devices ready for distribution. The company said its facility in Liverpool, New York, made 1,300 face shields Thursday with a goal of producing 2,000 more Friday and 4,000 daily next week.

Pro baseball, hockey equipment makers shift to coronavirus-fighting products

<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">Click here </a>to see the worldwide map of confirmed cases

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. coronavirus infections surged to top the world amid warnings that the pandemic is accelerating in cities like New York, Chicago and Detroit, while a record $2.2 trillion emergency package neared final approval Friday by Congress to help millions of newly unemployed Americans and struggling companies.

The situation in countries with even more fragile health care systems grew more dire on Friday. Russia, Indonesia and South Africa all passed the 1,000-infection mark and South Africa began a three-week lockdown. India launched a massive program to help feed hungry day laborers after a lockdown of the country's 1.3 billion people put them out of work.

In France, a 16-year-old student became the youngest person in the country to die from the virus. Her sister, Manon, spoke out in the French media, saying that Julie was hospitalized Monday after developing a “slight cough” last week, then died Tuesday at the Necker children's hospital in Paris.

“We must stop believing that this only affects the elderly,” said Manon, who did not reveal her surname. "No one is invincible against this mutant virus.”

France has reported more than 1,600 deaths so far amid 29,000 infections.

The U.S. now has more than 85,000 confirmed cases, and Italy was set to pass China's 81,782 infections later Friday. The three countries account for 46% of the world's nearly 540,000 infections and more than half of its acknowledged virus deaths.

Analysts, however warned that all those infection figures could be low for reasons that varied in each nation.

“China numbers can't be trusted because the government lies,” American political scientist Ian Bremmer, president of the Euraisa Group think-tank, said Friday in a tweet. “U.S. numbers can't be trusted because the government can't produce enough tests.”

Italian epidemiologists warn that the country's numbers are likely much higher than reported — perhaps five times as higher — although two weeks into a nationwide lockdown the daily increase seems to be slowing, at least in northern Italy.

“It’s a horrible sensation, not being able to breathe,” said Fausto Russo, a 38-year-old fitness trainer who is one of 10,000 Italians whose infection has been cured. “Imagine putting your head under water.”

Health care workers grew increasingly angry at the lack of protective equipment.

"Our emergency room was like a petri dish,” said Benny Mathew, a nurse at New York's Montefiore Medical Center who heard Thursday he had COVID-19 and is now worried he may infect his wife and two daughters.

“I’m angry. We could have secured enough personal protective equipment months ago. It was happening in China since December,” he said. “But we thought it was never going to happen here.”

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

The worldwide death toll climbed to over 24,000, according to Johns Hopkins University but more than 124,000 people have recovered, about half in China.

New York state, the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak., reported 100 more deaths in one day, accounting for almost 30% of the 1,300 fatalities nationwide. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the number of deaths will increase soon as critically ill patients who have been on ventilators for days succumb.

“That is a situation where people just deteriorate over time,” Cuomo said.

The White House's coronavirus response coordinator, Deborah Birx, said counties in the Midwest around Chicago and Detroit are seeing a rapid increase in cases.

Washington, D.C., confirmed 36 new cases, raising its total to 267. The district is under a state of emergency, its major attractions like the Smithsonian museums and National Zoo closed and White House and Capitol tours cancelled. Police have blocked off streets, bridges and traffic circles to prevent crowds from coming to see Washington’s blooming cherry blossom trees.

Russian authorities ramped up testing this week after widespread criticism of insufficient screening.

The stay-home order for India's 1.3 billion people threw out of work the backbone of the nation’s economy — rickshaw drivers, fruit peddlers, cleaners and others who buy food with their daily earnings. The government announced a $22 billion stimulus to deliver monthly rations to 800 million people.

India's massive train system was also halted to stop the spread of the virus but that might not work. Jobless workers are now attempting to walk hundreds of miles to their home villages from India's major cities.

In China, where the virus was first believed to have started, the National Health Commission on Friday reported 55 new cases, 54 of them imported infections. Once again, there were no new cases reported in Wuhan, the provincial capital where the coronavirus first emerged in December. China is barring most foreigners from entering.

In a phone call Friday, Chinese leader Xi Jinping told U.S. President Donald Trump that China "understands the United States' current predicament over the COVID-19 outbreak and stands ready to provide support within its capacity."

The two countries should “work together to boost cooperation in epidemic control and other fields, and develop a relationship of non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation," the official Xinhua News Agency reported.

The pandemic appears to have peaked in China, even while the government remains on guard against imported cases. Beijing is sending medical teams and equipment abroad, especially to Europe. But it has strongly protested U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's repeated references to the outbreak as the "Wuhan Flu," saying that promotes bias against China and Chinese Americans.

The economic damage of the pandemic was growing. Italy shut down most of its industry, and a record-shattering 3.3 million Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week — nearly five times the old record set in 1982. Companies in Europe are laying off workers at the fastest pace since 2009, according to surveys of business managers.

Despite that, Wall Street rallied for the third straight day after an unprecedented $2.2 trillion economic rescue package to help businesses, hospitals and ordinary Americans passed the Senate. The rescue plan, which is expected to be voted on in the House later Friday, would dispense checks of $1,200 per adult and $500 per child.

NEW YORK — The United States now leads the world in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases.

According to a running count by Johns Hopkins University, the number of people infected in the U.S. topped 82,000 on Thursday. That’s just ahead of the 81,000 cases in China and 80,000 in Italy.

Italy has the most confirmed deaths of any country with more than 8,000. More than 1,000 people have died in the U.S including 281 in New York City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585262392479.png" alt="Map courtesy John Hopkins <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">Coronavirus Resource Center</a>" />
 <figcaption>Map courtesy John Hopkins <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">Coronavirus Resource Center</a></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">Click here </a>to see the worldwide map of confirmed casesNEW YORK (AP) — U.S. coronavirus infections surged to top the world amid warnings that the pandemic is accelerating in cities like New York, Chicago and Detroit, while a record $2.2 trillion emergency package neared final approval Friday by Congress to help millions of newly unemployed Americans and struggling companies.The situation in countries with even more fragile health care systems grew more dire on Friday. Russia, Indonesia and South Africa all passed the 1,000-infection mark and South Africa began a three-week lockdown. India launched a massive program to help feed hungry day laborers after a lockdown of the country's 1.3 billion people put them out of work.In France, a 16-year-old student became the youngest person in the country to die from the virus. Her sister, Manon, spoke out in the French media, saying that Julie was hospitalized Monday after developing a “slight cough” last week, then died Tuesday at the Necker children's hospital in Paris.“We must stop believing that this only affects the elderly,” said Manon, who did not reveal her surname. "No one is invincible against this mutant virus.”France has reported more than 1,600 deaths so far amid 29,000 infections.The U.S. now has more than 85,000 confirmed cases, and Italy was set to pass China's 81,782 infections later Friday. The three countries account for 46% of the world's nearly 540,000 infections and more than half of its acknowledged virus deaths.Analysts, however warned that all those infection figures could be low for reasons that varied in each nation.“China numbers can't be trusted because the government lies,” American political scientist Ian Bremmer, president of the Euraisa Group think-tank, said Friday in a tweet. “U.S. numbers can't be trusted because the government can't produce enough tests.”Italian epidemiologists warn that the country's numbers are likely much higher than reported — perhaps five times as higher — although two weeks into a nationwide lockdown the daily increase seems to be slowing, at least in northern Italy.“It’s a horrible sensation, not being able to breathe,” said Fausto Russo, a 38-year-old fitness trainer who is one of 10,000 Italians whose infection has been cured. “Imagine putting your head under water.”Health care workers grew increasingly angry at the lack of protective equipment."Our emergency room was like a petri dish,” said Benny Mathew, a nurse at New York's Montefiore Medical Center who heard Thursday he had COVID-19 and is now worried he may infect his wife and two daughters.“I’m angry. We could have secured enough personal protective equipment months ago. It was happening in China since December,” he said. “But we thought it was never going to happen here.”For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.The worldwide death toll climbed to over 24,000, according to Johns Hopkins University but more than 124,000 people have recovered, about half in China.New York state, the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak., reported 100 more deaths in one day, accounting for almost 30% of the 1,300 fatalities nationwide. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the number of deaths will increase soon as critically ill patients who have been on ventilators for days succumb.“That is a situation where people just deteriorate over time,” Cuomo said.The White House's coronavirus response coordinator, Deborah Birx, said counties in the Midwest around Chicago and Detroit are seeing a rapid increase in cases.Washington, D.C., confirmed 36 new cases, raising its total to 267. The district is under a state of emergency, its major attractions like the Smithsonian museums and National Zoo closed and White House and Capitol tours cancelled. Police have blocked off streets, bridges and traffic circles to prevent crowds from coming to see Washington’s blooming cherry blossom trees.Russian authorities ramped up testing this week after widespread criticism of insufficient screening.The stay-home order for India's 1.3 billion people threw out of work the backbone of the nation’s economy — rickshaw drivers, fruit peddlers, cleaners and others who buy food with their daily earnings. The government announced a $22 billion stimulus to deliver monthly rations to 800 million people.India's massive train system was also halted to stop the spread of the virus but that might not work. Jobless workers are now attempting to walk hundreds of miles to their home villages from India's major cities.In China, where the virus was first believed to have started, the National Health Commission on Friday reported 55 new cases, 54 of them imported infections. Once again, there were no new cases reported in Wuhan, the provincial capital where the coronavirus first emerged in December. China is barring most foreigners from entering.In a phone call Friday, Chinese leader Xi Jinping told U.S. President Donald Trump that China "understands the United States' current predicament over the COVID-19 outbreak and stands ready to provide support within its capacity."The two countries should “work together to boost cooperation in epidemic control and other fields, and develop a relationship of non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation," the official Xinhua News Agency reported.The pandemic appears to have peaked in China, even while the government remains on guard against imported cases. Beijing is sending medical teams and equipment abroad, especially to Europe. But it has strongly protested U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's repeated references to the outbreak as the "Wuhan Flu," saying that promotes bias against China and Chinese Americans.The economic damage of the pandemic was growing. Italy shut down most of its industry, and a record-shattering 3.3 million Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week — nearly five times the old record set in 1982. Companies in Europe are laying off workers at the fastest pace since 2009, according to surveys of business managers.Despite that, Wall Street rallied for the third straight day after an unprecedented $2.2 trillion economic rescue package to help businesses, hospitals and ordinary Americans passed the Senate. The rescue plan, which is expected to be voted on in the House later Friday, would dispense checks of $1,200 per adult and $500 per child.———NEW YORK — The United States now leads the world in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases.According to a running count by Johns Hopkins University, the number of people infected in the U.S. topped 82,000 on Thursday. That’s just ahead of the 81,000 cases in China and 80,000 in Italy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585263243550.png" alt="Numbers as of 5p.m. CDT March 26, 2020" />
 <figcaption>Numbers as of 5p.m. CDT March 26, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>Italy has the most confirmed deaths of any country with more than 8,000. More than 1,000 people have died in the U.S including 281 in New York City.___

The Latest: US has most infections as virus tightens grip on the world

Northwest Community Action Partnership is committed to continuing services to the communities in our service areas during this difficult time. Some services may be impacted as we follow Panhandle Public Health, CDC and other recommendations but it is our goal to maintain as many services as possible. Our leadership teams are meeting daily via video conferencing to make certain we are addressing all needs during this crisis in a timely and efficient manner.

In addition to our commitment to our clients, we have a vital responsibility to ensure the health and well-being of our staff. Without a safe and healthy staff we would not be able to meet the needs of the most vulnerable populations in our community including the elderly, young children, pregnant mothers and those facing the challenges of poverty. To protect staff, and clients, we have made the following changes in accordance with the recommendations of the CDC and PPHD.

· All Head Start schools in Alliance, Chadron, and Gordon are closed until May 1st, unless otherwise advised by PPHD. The Head Start Center in Valentine is closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. However, our Head Start Teachers and Home Visitors have developed YouTube channels where daily lessons are being posted for their students. Follow us on Facebook to access the links to these lessons for use with your own preschool aged children! Staff are also delivering activity packets and supplies such as crayons, glue sticks and paper to students. Finally, NCAP staff are delivering meals to students to ensure they are still receiving the meals they would have normally had during the school day.

· All Outreach Offices, including our food pantries, are closed to the public but services are still being provided. Please visit our website or call us to learn how to access services at this time. Read further for our contact information. Our Community Services teams are distributing bags of emergency food and diapers to Head Start, Early Head Start and Food Pantry clients. The situation is rapidly evolving and we are adapting as needed. Currently we are offering delivery of food for those who cannot safely pick up their food.

· All administrative offices are closed to the public until further notice. Please call our main line – (308) 432-3393 for assistance. Calls will be answered between the hours of 8 – 12 and 12:30 – 4:30 Monday through Friday. Afterhours messages will be checked regularly.

Please check our website for a full list of closures, postponements, altered hours and for complete information on how to access services at this time. Please complete an inquiry form if services are needed. Go to www.ncap.info, scroll to the bottom of the homepage and click on the link for COVID19 Updates.

If you are in a position to do so and it is on your heart to help, please consider visiting our website to make a donation via PayPal to support these efforts. Donations are often the only way we can purchase items for unexpected client needs. Grant funds are heavily restricted to specific expenditures while donation dollars give us more flexibility to meet the needs of our clients during these challenging times. Donations of items are always appreciated however, we are part of larger networks that give us buying power which stretches our dollars further. For example; a person might donate a can of food, but we would be able to buy 3 cans at that same cost. If you are interested in being a ‘Safe Volunteer’ please visit our website or Facebook page to access the online sign up tool for volunteer opportunities. After you sign up, someone will contact you to determine the best fit for volunteering depending on your personal situation, abilities and desire.

We strongly encourage the public to follow any and all guidelines released by Panhandle Public Health District regarding social distancing, travel, self-reporting, quarantine guidelines, hand washing, etc. Please visit their website www.pphd.org to stay up to date on the most current guidance.

We want to take a moment to thank our staff for the hard work and dedication they are showing during this challenging time. Each member of the NCAP team is dedicated to continuing as many essential services as we are safely able to fulfill. We thank the public for their patience and understanding as we navigated these uncharted territories. From our families to yours – stay safe and healthy everyone!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585274345390.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northwest Community Action Partnership is committed to continuing services to the communities in our service areas during this difficult time. Some services may be impacted as we follow Panhandle Public Health, CDC and other recommendations but it is our goal to maintain as many services as possible. Our leadership teams are meeting daily via video conferencing to make certain we are addressing all needs during this crisis in a timely and efficient manner.In addition to our commitment to our clients, we have a vital responsibility to ensure the health and well-being of our staff. Without a safe and healthy staff we would not be able to meet the needs of the most vulnerable populations in our community including the elderly, young children, pregnant mothers and those facing the challenges of poverty. To protect staff, and clients, we have made the following changes in accordance with the recommendations of the CDC and PPHD.· All Head Start schools in Alliance, Chadron, and Gordon are closed until May 1st, unless otherwise advised by PPHD. The Head Start Center in Valentine is closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. However, our Head Start Teachers and Home Visitors have developed YouTube channels where daily lessons are being posted for their students. Follow us on Facebook to access the links to these lessons for use with your own preschool aged children! Staff are also delivering activity packets and supplies such as crayons, glue sticks and paper to students. Finally, NCAP staff are delivering meals to students to ensure they are still receiving the meals they would have normally had during the school day.· All Outreach Offices, including our food pantries, are closed to the public but services are still being provided. Please visit our website or call us to learn how to access services at this time. Read further for our contact information. Our Community Services teams are distributing bags of emergency food and diapers to Head Start, Early Head Start and Food Pantry clients. The situation is rapidly evolving and we are adapting as needed. Currently we are offering delivery of food for those who cannot safely pick up their food.· All administrative offices are closed to the public until further notice. Please call our main line – (308) 432-3393 for assistance. Calls will be answered between the hours of 8 – 12 and 12:30 – 4:30 Monday through Friday. Afterhours messages will be checked regularly.Please check our website for a full list of closures, postponements, altered hours and for complete information on how to access services at this time. Please complete an inquiry form if services are needed. Go to www.ncap.info, scroll to the bottom of the homepage and click on the link for COVID19 Updates.If you are in a position to do so and it is on your heart to help, please consider visiting our website to make a donation via PayPal to support these efforts. Donations are often the only way we can purchase items for unexpected client needs. Grant funds are heavily restricted to specific expenditures while donation dollars give us more flexibility to meet the needs of our clients during these challenging times. Donations of items are always appreciated however, we are part of larger networks that give us buying power which stretches our dollars further. For example; a person might donate a can of food, but we would be able to buy 3 cans at that same cost. If you are interested in being a ‘Safe Volunteer’ please visit our website or Facebook page to access the online sign up tool for volunteer opportunities. After you sign up, someone will contact you to determine the best fit for volunteering depending on your personal situation, abilities and desire.We strongly encourage the public to follow any and all guidelines released by Panhandle Public Health District regarding social distancing, travel, self-reporting, quarantine guidelines, hand washing, etc. Please visit their website www.pphd.org to stay up to date on the most current guidance.We want to take a moment to thank our staff for the hard work and dedication they are showing during this challenging time. Each member of the NCAP team is dedicated to continuing as many essential services as we are safely able to fulfill. We thank the public for their patience and understanding as we navigated these uncharted territories. From our families to yours – stay safe and healthy everyone!

NCAP: Committed to you during the COVID-19 crisis

Four new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Douglas County, according to preliminary data from the Douglas County Health Department (DCHD).This brings the total number of cases in Douglas County to 44.These latest cases involve a woman in her 30s and a man in his 40s plus two men in their 50s. The Health Department’s Epidemiology Team is continuing its investigations into these latest cases.The Health Department says everyone should take precautions throughout the community to avoid a COVID-19 infection, not just in locations that have been listed as potential exposure sites. You also should bear in mind that many people who are sick have mild symptoms. According to the CDC, four out of five people who have become ill acquired the disease from someone who didn’t know they had it, so there likely are many more people in the community who are infected with COVID-19 than have been reported.Please increase your awareness of the symptoms, which include a fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling and any possible history of exposure, then call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.DCHD’s information line remains open to anyone with general questions about COVID-19. That number, (402) 444-3400, is answered seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Nebraska DHHS has a COVID-19 information line open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily at (402) 552-6645. Any person who has questions outside those hours is asked to call the United Way’s 2-1-1 Resource Hotline.

Four new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Douglas County, according to preliminary data from the Douglas County Health Department (DCHD).This brings the total number of cases in Douglas County to 44.These latest cases involve a woman in her 30s and a man in his 40s plus two men in their 50s. The Health Department’s Epidemiology Team is continuing its investigations into these latest cases.The Health Department says everyone should take precautions throughout the community to avoid a COVID-19 infection, not just in locations that have been listed as potential exposure sites. You also should bear in mind that many people who are sick have mild symptoms. According to the CDC, four out of five people who have become ill acquired the disease from someone who didn’t know they had it, so there likely are many more people in the community who are infected with COVID-19 than have been reported.Please increase your awareness of the symptoms, which include a fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling and any possible history of exposure, then call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.DCHD’s information line remains open to anyone with general questions about COVID-19. That number, (402) 444-3400, is answered seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Nebraska DHHS has a COVID-19 information line open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily at (402) 552-6645. Any person who has questions outside those hours is asked to call the United Way’s 2-1-1 Resource Hotline.

4 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Douglas County

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to expand access to childcare options during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.&nbsp;

The order is intended to activate nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and schools to help provide the care families need now.&nbsp; It eases the licensing requirements to open and operate temporary, non-residential child care in an alternative setting.&nbsp; The executive order is effective immediately and will remain in place until 30 days after the State lifts the current COVID-19 state of emergency.&nbsp; The executive order can be viewed by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cad76ccafaebc438ba90708d7d1db6989%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637208612611435180&amp;sdata=NY5rNWgsdbbwgYE4BRq9oU2D0VdhG5xslDPl0y68Ptk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

The Governor also announced that the May 12th&nbsp;primary election will continue as scheduled in Nebraska. &nbsp;He emphasized that fulfilling the State’s duty to carry out elections is vital to the health of our democratic republic. &nbsp;Secretary of State Bob Evnen joined Gov. Ricketts to talk about how the election will take place.&nbsp; He said that Nebraska voters will receive an early voting request form by mail, which needs to be filled out, signed, and sent into county election officials by May 1, 2020, to receive an early voting ballot.&nbsp; He encouraged Nebraskans to vote early by mail or by delivering their ballot to dropboxes located outside of county offices.&nbsp;

Additionally, Secretary Evnen confirmed that polling sites will be open for Nebraskans who prefer to vote in-person on Election Day in May.&nbsp; The State will provide sanitation kits at each location, which contain sanitizers and disinfectant wipes, along with masks and gloves for poll workers.&nbsp; Polling sites will not be limited to 10 persons, though each one will have protocols in place to maintain social distance between voters.&nbsp; Information on voting can be found at the Secretary of State’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/2020-elections" target="_blank">https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/2020-elections</a>.

Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) Commissioner John H. Albin also participated in the press conference to give an update on Nebraska’s unemployment situation.&nbsp; He noted the rise in unemployment claims due to the COVID-19 emergency, and he outlined benefits available to Nebraskans who are out of work or have seen their hours reduced.&nbsp; Any workers in a non-paid status due to COVID-19 may file a claim for unemployment insurance benefits.&nbsp; Currently, the maximum weekly benefit amount is $440 per week. &nbsp;Unemployment claims in Nebraska are filed online at&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp; From March 22nd&nbsp;through May 2nd, NDOL is waiving the requirement to search for work to be eligible for benefits.&nbsp; Additionally, NDOL is waiving the requirement that applicants serve an unpaid waiting week once their eligibility has been determined.

Commissioner Albin also highlighted the Short-Term Compensation program.&nbsp; It helps to prevent layoffs by allowing employers to uniformly reduce their affected teammates’ hours by 10-60%.&nbsp; These teammates are then eligible to receive a prorated unemployment benefit based on their reduction in hours.&nbsp; For more information, visit this page:&nbsp;<a href="http://dol.nebraska.gov/stc" target="_blank">dol.nebraska.gov/stc</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%2Fb3w3awc8s40v66c%2FPress%2520Conf%252003.26.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cad76ccafaebc438ba90708d7d1db6989%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637208612611445134&amp;sdata=lzUcrjL3hFgqTwD58n0ifFLVTXalTqSvxNDk0OmFFKE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585268976962.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium, Secretary of State Bob Evnen (left of Gov. in tie, and Labor Commissioner John Albin (far right) at today’s press conference." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium, Secretary of State Bob Evnen (left of Gov. in tie, and Labor Commissioner John Albin (far right) at today’s press conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to expand access to childcare options during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.&nbsp;The order is intended to activate nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and schools to help provide the care families need now.&nbsp; It eases the licensing requirements to open and operate temporary, non-residential child care in an alternative setting.&nbsp; The executive order is effective immediately and will remain in place until 30 days after the State lifts the current COVID-19 state of emergency.&nbsp; The executive order can be viewed by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cad76ccafaebc438ba90708d7d1db6989%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637208612611435180&amp;sdata=NY5rNWgsdbbwgYE4BRq9oU2D0VdhG5xslDPl0y68Ptk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.The Governor also announced that the May 12th&nbsp;primary election will continue as scheduled in Nebraska. &nbsp;He emphasized that fulfilling the State’s duty to carry out elections is vital to the health of our democratic republic. &nbsp;Secretary of State Bob Evnen joined Gov. Ricketts to talk about how the election will take place.&nbsp; He said that Nebraska voters will receive an early voting request form by mail, which needs to be filled out, signed, and sent into county election officials by May 1, 2020, to receive an early voting ballot.&nbsp; He encouraged Nebraskans to vote early by mail or by delivering their ballot to dropboxes located outside of county offices.&nbsp;Additionally, Secretary Evnen confirmed that polling sites will be open for Nebraskans who prefer to vote in-person on Election Day in May.&nbsp; The State will provide sanitation kits at each location, which contain sanitizers and disinfectant wipes, along with masks and gloves for poll workers.&nbsp; Polling sites will not be limited to 10 persons, though each one will have protocols in place to maintain social distance between voters.&nbsp; Information on voting can be found at the Secretary of State’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/2020-elections" target="_blank">https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/2020-elections</a>.Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) Commissioner John H. Albin also participated in the press conference to give an update on Nebraska’s unemployment situation.&nbsp; He noted the rise in unemployment claims due to the COVID-19 emergency, and he outlined benefits available to Nebraskans who are out of work or have seen their hours reduced.&nbsp; Any workers in a non-paid status due to COVID-19 may file a claim for unemployment insurance benefits.&nbsp; Currently, the maximum weekly benefit amount is $440 per week. &nbsp;Unemployment claims in Nebraska are filed online at&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp; From March 22nd&nbsp;through May 2nd, NDOL is waiving the requirement to search for work to be eligible for benefits.&nbsp; Additionally, NDOL is waiving the requirement that applicants serve an unpaid waiting week once their eligibility has been determined.Commissioner Albin also highlighted the Short-Term Compensation program.&nbsp; It helps to prevent layoffs by allowing employers to uniformly reduce their affected teammates’ hours by 10-60%.&nbsp; These teammates are then eligible to receive a prorated unemployment benefit based on their reduction in hours.&nbsp; For more information, visit this page:&nbsp;<a href="http://dol.nebraska.gov/stc" target="_blank">dol.nebraska.gov/stc</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%2Fb3w3awc8s40v66c%2FPress%2520Conf%252003.26.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cad76ccafaebc438ba90708d7d1db6989%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637208612611445134&amp;sdata=lzUcrjL3hFgqTwD58n0ifFLVTXalTqSvxNDk0OmFFKE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts issues executive order expanding access to childcare, announces May 12 election will proceed

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a new executive order allowing restaurants and bars to provide mixed drinks with lids for takeout.

“Our restaurants and bars have been some of the hardest hit businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “I've signed an executive order to help them by allowing takeout for pre-made cocktails and other alcoholic beverages as long as they are sealed with a lid.”

Read the executive order by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fyg51f8fbwe9ausc%2FEO%252020-09%2520Additional%2520Relief%2520for%2520Restaurant%2520and%2520Bar%2520Operations.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd5ce8ab395ea467fb17908d7d1db78fb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637208612877136764&amp;sdata=%2BswoFLUHPBFlD%2Bg4crwDwZfL0ZMuI6LvFB6pEWvRqio%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a new executive order allowing restaurants and bars to provide mixed drinks with lids for takeout.“Our restaurants and bars have been some of the hardest hit businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “I've signed an executive order to help them by allowing takeout for pre-made cocktails and other alcoholic beverages as long as they are sealed with a lid.”Read the executive order by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fyg51f8fbwe9ausc%2FEO%252020-09%2520Additional%2520Relief%2520for%2520Restaurant%2520and%2520Bar%2520Operations.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cd5ce8ab395ea467fb17908d7d1db78fb%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637208612877136764&amp;sdata=%2BswoFLUHPBFlD%2Bg4crwDwZfL0ZMuI6LvFB6pEWvRqio%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts issues executive order allowing mixed drinks to be ordered takeout with lid

By&nbsp;Kylen Armstrong,&nbsp;Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District

The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) has made the decision to cancel the next monthly Board Meeting, scheduled for April 9th, 2020 in the interest of public safety as well as the safety of NRD staff.

“Due to the uncertainty of any continued travel or gathering restrictions as well as the challenges of conducting meetings via video or phone conference it was decided to cancel the April meeting,” stated Dave Carlson, UNWNRD Board Chairman.

The UNWNRD office will remain open to the public but will continue to closely monitor the rapidly evolving situation. Anyone needing to conduct business with the UNWNRD is encouraged to do so by phone or email. For further updates as they become available, please visit our website, unwnrd.org, or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Kylen Armstrong,&nbsp;Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources DistrictThe Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) has made the decision to cancel the next monthly Board Meeting, scheduled for April 9th, 2020 in the interest of public safety as well as the safety of NRD staff.“Due to the uncertainty of any continued travel or gathering restrictions as well as the challenges of conducting meetings via video or phone conference it was decided to cancel the April meeting,” stated Dave Carlson, UNWNRD Board Chairman.The UNWNRD office will remain open to the public but will continue to closely monitor the rapidly evolving situation. Anyone needing to conduct business with the UNWNRD is encouraged to do so by phone or email. For further updates as they become available, please visit our website, unwnrd.org, or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.&nbsp;

Upper Niobrara White NRD cancels April meeting 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Officials say Nebraska's initial claims for unemployment skyrocketed with the nation's last week amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The filings rose to nearly 16,000 from a little less than 800 the week before. The dire financial news comes as two more COVID-19 cases are confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68. 

The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency relief package to help public health officials respond to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Officials say Nebraska's initial claims for unemployment skyrocketed with the nation's last week amid the coronavirus pandemic. The filings rose to nearly 16,000 from a little less than 800 the week before. The dire financial news comes as two more COVID-19 cases are confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68. The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency relief package to help public health officials respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.&nbsp;

Nebraska jobless claims soar with rise in virus numbers

DUFUR, Ore. (AP) — The pandemic's toll in big cities like New York, Seattle and San Francisco has dominated headlines, but large swaths of rural America are also deeply affected. 

Tiny towns tucked into Oregon's windswept plains or on Alaska's arctic tundra might not have a single case of the new coronavirus yet, but these small communities are still wary. 

They fear the spread of the disease to areas with scarce medical resources, the social isolation that comes when the only diner in town closes its doors and the economic free fall that's hitting hard in places where jobs were already hard to come by.&nbsp;

DUFUR, Ore. (AP) — The pandemic's toll in big cities like New York, Seattle and San Francisco has dominated headlines, but large swaths of rural America are also deeply affected. Tiny towns tucked into Oregon's windswept plains or on Alaska's arctic tundra might not have a single case of the new coronavirus yet, but these small communities are still wary. They fear the spread of the disease to areas with scarce medical resources, the social isolation that comes when the only diner in town closes its doors and the economic free fall that's hitting hard in places where jobs were already hard to come by.&nbsp;

Rural America watches pandemic erupt in cities as fear grows

BOX ELDER, S.D. (AP) — The Latest on the coronavirus outbreak in South Dakota (all times local):

Ellsworth Air Force Base has declared a public health emergency in order to give its commander additional authority to enforce social distancing strategies due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Officials said the declaration also better aligns the base with national guidance.

South Dakota health officials say the number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 rose to 41 Wednesday, but no cases have been reported on the base.

The commander could expand the civilian leave policy and further restrict base access under the declaration.

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

Leaders encouraged base families to follow the Centers for Disease Control guidelines, avoid gatherings of 10 or more people, and practice social distancing and good personal hygiene.

BOX ELDER, S.D. (AP) — The Latest on the coronavirus outbreak in South Dakota (all times local):8:35 a.mEllsworth Air Force Base has declared a public health emergency in order to give its commander additional authority to enforce social distancing strategies due to the coronavirus pandemic.Officials said the declaration also better aligns the base with national guidance.South Dakota health officials say the number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 rose to 41 Wednesday, but no cases have been reported on the base.The commander could expand the civilian leave policy and further restrict base access under the declaration.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.Leaders encouraged base families to follow the Centers for Disease Control guidelines, avoid gatherings of 10 or more people, and practice social distancing and good personal hygiene.

Ellsworth AFB declares public health emergency

SCOTTSBLUFF -Due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, Western Nebraska Community College is shifting the remainder of its campus-based functions and services to remote operations.

Most faculty and staff will be working from home and visitors will not have access to buildings, effective at 4 p.m., Friday, March 27, until further notice. A limited number of essential personnel will continue to report for duty, but all other employees are encouraged to remain away from campus locations to promote the continued health and safety of individuals who must be onsite.

This move follows the recent conversion of most WNCC coursework to an online format, which was successfully launched on March 23. A handful of career and technical education classes will continue meeting onsite following strict social-distancing guidelines until it is no longer feasible to do so. These include automotive technology, aviation maintenance, collision repair &amp; refinish technology, powerline construction &amp; maintenance technology, and welding technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All currently scheduled campus events and lifelong learning classes are canceled through May 1. Future events will be re-assessed at that time. In the meantime, WNCC is exploring alternative delivery methods as a way to continue to serve our communities.

"While this is certainly an unprecedented situation, it is so gratifying for me to observe the commitment shown by our faculty and staff," said WNCC President Carmen Simone. "They have risen to the challenge. My heart is filled with pride, gratitude, and deep admiration."

The main college phone number, 308-635-3606, can still be used at this time, and calls and voicemails will be forwarded to employees working from home. Faculty and staff may also be contacted through email. An online directory is available on the WNCC website:&nbsp;www.wncc.edu.&nbsp;

Additional information on WNCC's response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be found at wncc.edu.

SCOTTSBLUFF -Due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, Western Nebraska Community College is shifting the remainder of its campus-based functions and services to remote operations.Most faculty and staff will be working from home and visitors will not have access to buildings, effective at 4 p.m., Friday, March 27, until further notice. A limited number of essential personnel will continue to report for duty, but all other employees are encouraged to remain away from campus locations to promote the continued health and safety of individuals who must be onsite.This move follows the recent conversion of most WNCC coursework to an online format, which was successfully launched on March 23. A handful of career and technical education classes will continue meeting onsite following strict social-distancing guidelines until it is no longer feasible to do so. These include automotive technology, aviation maintenance, collision repair &amp; refinish technology, powerline construction &amp; maintenance technology, and welding technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;All currently scheduled campus events and lifelong learning classes are canceled through May 1. Future events will be re-assessed at that time. In the meantime, WNCC is exploring alternative delivery methods as a way to continue to serve our communities."While this is certainly an unprecedented situation, it is so gratifying for me to observe the commitment shown by our faculty and staff," said WNCC President Carmen Simone. "They have risen to the challenge. My heart is filled with pride, gratitude, and deep admiration."The main college phone number, 308-635-3606, can still be used at this time, and calls and voicemails will be forwarded to employees working from home. Faculty and staff may also be contacted through email. An online directory is available on the WNCC website:&nbsp;www.wncc.edu.&nbsp;Additional information on WNCC's response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be found at wncc.edu.

WNCC shifting to remote operations, employees to work from home

At the moment, healthcare workers at BBGH have the gear they need to protect themselves during this pandemic. However, the global demand for PPE (personal protective equipment) supplies does not look to be slowing down and is putting major stress on manufacturers, leaving some hospitals without the supplies they need to protect their workers on the frontline.

In an effort to prevent a shortage of supplies, BBGH is asking the community for help. The supplies listed below are items the hospital would like to receive:

· Travel size hand sanitizer containers (unused/new)

Please direct all donations to the Alliance Chamber of Commerce between 1pm- 3pm Monday- Friday. BBGH is asking for new, in-box, or unopened/unused supplies to keep germs to a minimum. Please do not bring items directly to the hospital, drop them off at the Chamber and record the time and date.

Every donation adds a sense of security and safety for both staff and patients. Thank you in advance for helping keep our community well!

Box Butte General Hospital is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

At the moment, healthcare workers at BBGH have the gear they need to protect themselves during this pandemic. However, the global demand for PPE (personal protective equipment) supplies does not look to be slowing down and is putting major stress on manufacturers, leaving some hospitals without the supplies they need to protect their workers on the frontline.In an effort to prevent a shortage of supplies, BBGH is asking the community for help. The supplies listed below are items the hospital would like to receive:· N95 masks· Bleach wipes· Sani wipes· Goggles· Face shields· Lysol spray· Travel size hand sanitizer containers (unused/new)Please direct all donations to the Alliance Chamber of Commerce between 1pm- 3pm Monday- Friday. BBGH is asking for new, in-box, or unopened/unused supplies to keep germs to a minimum. Please do not bring items directly to the hospital, drop them off at the Chamber and record the time and date.Every donation adds a sense of security and safety for both staff and patients. Thank you in advance for helping keep our community well!Box Butte General Hospital is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

BBGH asking community to donate additional protective gear for staff, patients

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pressure was mounting on the Trump administration Wednesday to release people from immigration detention facilities where at least one detainee has tested positive for COVID-19 and advocates fear tight quarters and overall conditions could cause rapid spread of the virus.

The U.S. holds around 37,000 people in immigration detention. Detainees and advocates say many are vulnerable because of age and pre-existing medical conditions, and because they are often held in open rooms, beds 3-feet apart, and without adequate supplies of masks or other protections.

“It’s impossible to stay calm,” said Marco Battistotti, an Italian who is among 170 people detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Bristol County jail in Massachusetts. “People are panicking. People are in fear.”

The 54-year-old Battistotti was among about 100 detainees at the county jail near Cape Cod who signed a letter released by a local immigration lawyer detailing conditions inside. They asked to be released to await decisions on their immigration cases.

“I don’t want to die in an ICE jail,” he said in a phone interview with The Associated Press. “Why can’t I fight my case on the outside?”

The agency, which reported the positive test of a 31-year-old man from Mexico held in Bergen County, New Jersey, on Tuesday, has announced steps to protect detained migrants and staff from the virus, but hasn’t said whether it plans to review cases for possible release because of the outbreak. It did not immediately respond to a request to comment on the complaints about conditions from the detainees and their advocates.

The administration has tried to balance its overall hard line on immigration, a signature policy of President Donald Trump, and its response to the outbreak, with ICE announcing previously that it would “temporarily adjust” operations to focus on apprehending people who pose a risk to public safety or are subject to mandatory detention because of a criminal record.

Immigrant advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, are filing lawsuits in California, Maryland, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, seeking court orders for the immediate release of people in immigration detention, especially those at risk because of their age or medical conditions.

It’s unclear how many detainees overall are at higher risk, but one California suit alone had 13 plaintiffs, all over 55.

A panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on Monday, citing the “rapidly escalating public health crisis,” ordered the immediate release of a 37-year-old woman who is fighting deportation to Mexico.

The woman’s lawyer, Max Carter-Oberstone, said the government told him it would not oppose the decision, which the court took on its own initiative in a rare move on behalf of a woman who he says has been threatened with death by members of a Mexican drug cartel.

“It wasn’t something we asked for or were expecting,” Carter-Oberstone said. “The court is clearly reacting to the greater public health crisis that we’re in right now and re-evaluating how it’s going to dispose of its immigration cases in light of that crisis that we’re all experiencing.”

The situation in immigration detention, which include facilities run by local jurisdictions and private contractors, is similar to that facing jails and prisons, with staff also at risk from a virus that already has sickened at least 55,000 people and killed about 800 in the U.S.

One difference is that more than half of ICE detainees have no criminal charges or conviction and are held only for immigration reasons. Under previous administrations, many would likely have been released on bond as they pursued their cases.

ICE has reported one positive test of an employee at a detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and 18 confirmed cases among staff not involved in detaining migrants. A contractor reported a positive case of a staff member at a facility in Harris County, Texas. The agency says it is screening new detainees and isolating detainees who show symptoms of the coronavirus disease.

Detainees say those measures won’t do much, with people staying in dorm-like bays with no social distancing possible or in smaller rooms that they sometimes have to clean themselves, with insufficient cleaning supplies.

Francisca Morales Diaz, a 45-year-old from Mexico who was released Friday from an ICE detention center in Louisiana, said she and others were issued soap and toilet paper for their own use once a week and they would run out. When they complained, she says they were told there were shortages on the outside as well.

“There isn’t enough medicine. It’s not well-maintained,” Morales told AP. Her fear is that “at any moment, they’re going to come and take me back there.”

Ira Alkalay, a lawyer representing some of the detainees at the jail near Cape Cod, said the detainees are responsible for cleaning their unit, which includes a dining area and bathrooms, but aren’t even given bleach. Some who signed the letter suffer from respiratory ailments such as tuberculosis, emphysema and asthma that put them at higher risk to the virus.

“These are not sanitary conditions at all,” Alkalay said. “If the virus is introduced, many people could get sick all at once. Hospitals in the area can become quickly overwhelmed.”

The office of Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson, who has made headlines for offering to send the jail’s ICE detainees to help build Trump’s promised border wall, has stressed there are currently no confirmed or suspected cases of the virus at the facility.

“We suspect these detainees are working with outside political activist groups to use the coronavirus crisis to advance their political agenda,” the sheriff’s spokesman, Jonathan Darling, said this week.

Eunice Cho, an ACLU lawyer, said the confined spaces and limited medical treatment in many immigration jails made them especially vulnerable — and if the virus spreads through one facility, the number of sick people who would require advanced care could overwhelm area hospitals. Many ICE jails are in rural areas with smaller hospitals.

“This is closely related to the public health of our entire community,” Cho said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562938154243.png" alt="Image courtesy U.S. Office of Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy U.S. Office of Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Pressure was mounting on the Trump administration Wednesday to release people from immigration detention facilities where at least one detainee has tested positive for COVID-19 and advocates fear tight quarters and overall conditions could cause rapid spread of the virus.The U.S. holds around 37,000 people in immigration detention. Detainees and advocates say many are vulnerable because of age and pre-existing medical conditions, and because they are often held in open rooms, beds 3-feet apart, and without adequate supplies of masks or other protections.“It’s impossible to stay calm,” said Marco Battistotti, an Italian who is among 170 people detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Bristol County jail in Massachusetts. “People are panicking. People are in fear.”The 54-year-old Battistotti was among about 100 detainees at the county jail near Cape Cod who signed a letter released by a local immigration lawyer detailing conditions inside. They asked to be released to await decisions on their immigration cases.“I don’t want to die in an ICE jail,” he said in a phone interview with The Associated Press. “Why can’t I fight my case on the outside?”The agency, which reported the positive test of a 31-year-old man from Mexico held in Bergen County, New Jersey, on Tuesday, has announced steps to protect detained migrants and staff from the virus, but hasn’t said whether it plans to review cases for possible release because of the outbreak. It did not immediately respond to a request to comment on the complaints about conditions from the detainees and their advocates.The administration has tried to balance its overall hard line on immigration, a signature policy of President Donald Trump, and its response to the outbreak, with ICE announcing previously that it would “temporarily adjust” operations to focus on apprehending people who pose a risk to public safety or are subject to mandatory detention because of a criminal record.Immigrant advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, are filing lawsuits in California, Maryland, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, seeking court orders for the immediate release of people in immigration detention, especially those at risk because of their age or medical conditions.It’s unclear how many detainees overall are at higher risk, but one California suit alone had 13 plaintiffs, all over 55.A panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on Monday, citing the “rapidly escalating public health crisis,” ordered the immediate release of a 37-year-old woman who is fighting deportation to Mexico.The woman’s lawyer, Max Carter-Oberstone, said the government told him it would not oppose the decision, which the court took on its own initiative in a rare move on behalf of a woman who he says has been threatened with death by members of a Mexican drug cartel.“It wasn’t something we asked for or were expecting,” Carter-Oberstone said. “The court is clearly reacting to the greater public health crisis that we’re in right now and re-evaluating how it’s going to dispose of its immigration cases in light of that crisis that we’re all experiencing.”The situation in immigration detention, which include facilities run by local jurisdictions and private contractors, is similar to that facing jails and prisons, with staff also at risk from a virus that already has sickened at least 55,000 people and killed about 800 in the U.S.One difference is that more than half of ICE detainees have no criminal charges or conviction and are held only for immigration reasons. Under previous administrations, many would likely have been released on bond as they pursued their cases.ICE has reported one positive test of an employee at a detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and 18 confirmed cases among staff not involved in detaining migrants. A contractor reported a positive case of a staff member at a facility in Harris County, Texas. The agency says it is screening new detainees and isolating detainees who show symptoms of the coronavirus disease.Detainees say those measures won’t do much, with people staying in dorm-like bays with no social distancing possible or in smaller rooms that they sometimes have to clean themselves, with insufficient cleaning supplies.Francisca Morales Diaz, a 45-year-old from Mexico who was released Friday from an ICE detention center in Louisiana, said she and others were issued soap and toilet paper for their own use once a week and they would run out. When they complained, she says they were told there were shortages on the outside as well.“There isn’t enough medicine. It’s not well-maintained,” Morales told AP. Her fear is that “at any moment, they’re going to come and take me back there.”Ira Alkalay, a lawyer representing some of the detainees at the jail near Cape Cod, said the detainees are responsible for cleaning their unit, which includes a dining area and bathrooms, but aren’t even given bleach. Some who signed the letter suffer from respiratory ailments such as tuberculosis, emphysema and asthma that put them at higher risk to the virus.“These are not sanitary conditions at all,” Alkalay said. “If the virus is introduced, many people could get sick all at once. Hospitals in the area can become quickly overwhelmed.”The office of Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson, who has made headlines for offering to send the jail’s ICE detainees to help build Trump’s promised border wall, has stressed there are currently no confirmed or suspected cases of the virus at the facility.“We suspect these detainees are working with outside political activist groups to use the coronavirus crisis to advance their political agenda,” the sheriff’s spokesman, Jonathan Darling, said this week.Eunice Cho, an ACLU lawyer, said the confined spaces and limited medical treatment in many immigration jails made them especially vulnerable — and if the virus spreads through one facility, the number of sick people who would require advanced care could overwhelm area hospitals. Many ICE jails are in rural areas with smaller hospitals.“This is closely related to the public health of our entire community,” Cho said.

Trump administration urged to free migrants as virus surges

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two more COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68, officials said.

The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/91b05abf7280c070bbd4ed3f185f97e7" target="_blank">relief package</a>&nbsp;to help public health officials respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.

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

The governor also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will have to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. Similar restrictions were already in place for Douglas, Sarpy, Cass and Washington counties. Combined, all of those counties account for more than 1.1 million people and well over half of the state's population.

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced a ban on gatherings larger than 10 as well as rules that will force the closure of salons, massage parlors, tattoo shops and other places where people spend time close together.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Two more COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Nebraska, bringing the state total to 68, officials said.The announcement Wednesday night follows the Legislature's approval of an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/91b05abf7280c070bbd4ed3f185f97e7" target="_blank">relief package</a>&nbsp;to help public health officials respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the bill that will provide money for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.The governor also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will have to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. Similar restrictions were already in place for Douglas, Sarpy, Cass and Washington counties. Combined, all of those counties account for more than 1.1 million people and well over half of the state's population.Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced a ban on gatherings larger than 10 as well as rules that will force the closure of salons, massage parlors, tattoo shops and other places where people spend time close together.

Officials say number of Nebraska COVID-19 cases rose again

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate passed an unparalleled $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic.

The unanimous vote Wednesday came despite misgivings on both sides about whether it goes too far or not far enough and capped days of difficult negotiations as Washington confronted a national challenge unlike it has ever faced.

The 880-page measure is the largest economic relief bill in U.S. history. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared somber and exhausted as he announced the vote — and he released senators from Washington until April 20, though he promised to recall them if needed.

“The legislation now before us now is historic because it is meant to match a historic crisis,” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. “Our health care system is not prepared to care for the sick. Our workers are without work. Our businesses cannot do business. Our factories lie idle. The gears of the American economy have ground to a halt.”

The package is intended as relief for an economy spiraling into recession or worse and a nation facing a grim toll from an infection that’s killed more than 21,000 people worldwide. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, asked how long the aid would keep the economy afloat, said: “We’ve anticipated three months. Hopefully, we won’t need this for three months.”

Underscoring the effort’s sheer magnitude, the bill finances a response with a price tag that equals half the size of the entire $4 trillion-plus annual federal budget. The $2.2 trillion estimate is the White House’s best guess.

Insistently optimistic, President Donald Trump said of the greatest public health emergency in anyone’s lifetime, “I don’t think its going to end up being such a rough patch” and anticipated the economy soaring “like a rocket ship” when it’s over.

“The government has temporarily shut down the economy because of this disease, and the government must help those who are hurt by it,” said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.

The drive by leaders to speed the bill through the Senate was slowed as four conservative Republican senators from states whose economies are dominated by low-wage jobs demanded changes, saying the legislation as written might give workers like store clerks incentives to stay on unemployment instead of return to their jobs since they may earn more money if they’re laid off than if they’re working. They settled for a failed vote to modify the provision.

Other objections floated in from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has become a prominent Democrat on the national scene as the country battles the pandemic. Cuomo, whose state has seen more deaths from the pandemic than any other, said, “I’m telling you, these numbers don’t work.”

Ardent liberals like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were restless as well, but top Washington Democrats assured them that additional coronavirus legislation will follow this spring and signaled that delaying the pending measure would be foolish.

The sprawling measure is the third coronavirus response bill produced by Congress and by far the largest. It builds on efforts focused on vaccines and emergency response, sick and family medical leave for workers and food aid.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., swung behind the bipartisan agreement, saying it “takes us a long way down the road in meeting the needs of the American people.”

Senate passage delivered the legislation to the Democratic-controlled House, which is expected to pass it Friday. House members are scattered around the country. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said the measure would pass by voice vote without lawmakers having to return to Washington.

The package would give direct payments to most Americans, expand unemployment benefits and provide a $367 billion program for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home.

It includes a heavily negotiated $500 billion program for guaranteed, subsidized loans to larger industries, including airlines. Hospitals would get significant help as well.

Six days of arduous talks produced the bill, creating tensions among Congress’ top leaders, who each took care to tend to party politics as they maneuvered and battled over crafting the legislation. But failure was not an option — nor was starting over — which permitted both sides to include their priorities.

“This is a proud moment for the United States Senate and the country, and we’re going to win this battle,” McConnell told reporters afterward. “We’ve pivoted from impeachment to 100-to-nothing on this rescue package … this is about as flawless as you could possibly be.” The vote actually was 96-0 because several members missed the vote out of concerns they have been exposed to the virus.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has tested positive for it, while GOP Whip John Thune returned to South Dakota on Wednesday after feeling ill.

The bill would provide one-time direct payments to Americans of $1,200 per adult making up to $75,000 a year and $2,400 to a married couple making up to $150,000, with $500 payments per child.

A huge cash infusion for hospitals expecting a flood of COVID-19 patients grew during the talks to an estimated $130 billion. Another $45 billion would fund additional relief through the Federal Emergency Management Agency for local response efforts and community services.

Democrats said the package would help replace the salaries of furloughed workers for four months, rather than the three months first proposed. Furloughed workers would get whatever amount a state usually provides for unemployment, plus a $600-per-week add-on, with gig workers like Uber drivers covered for the first time.

Businesses controlled by members of Congress and top administration officials, including Trump and his immediate family members, would be ineligible for the bill’s business assistance.

Schumer boasted of negotiating wins for transit systems, hospitals and cash-hungry state governments that were cemented after Democrats blocked the measure in votes held Sunday and Monday.

But Cuomo said the Senate package would send less than $4 billion to New York, far short of his estimate that the crisis will cost his state up to $15 billion over the next year. More than 280 New Yorkers have died from the virus, a death toll more than double that of any other state.

Still, Pelosi said the need for more money for New York is “no reason to stop the step we are taking.”

Pelosi was a force behind $400 million in grants to states to expand voting by mail and other steps that Democrats billed as making voting safer but Republican critics called political opportunism. The package also contains $15.5 billion more for a surge in demand for food stamps as part of a massive $330 billion title for agency operations.

State and local authorities would receive up to $150 billion in grants to fight the virus, care for their residents and provide basic services.

Republicans won inclusion of an employee retention tax credit that’s estimated to provide $50 billion to companies that retain employees on payroll and cover 50% of workers’ paycheck up to $10,000. Companies would also be able to defer payment of the 6.2% Social Security payroll tax.

A companion appropriations package ballooned as well, growing from a $46 billion White House proposal to $330 billion, which dwarfs earlier disasters — including Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy combined.

Europe is enacting its own economic recovery packages, with huge amounts of credit guarantees, government spending and other support.

Germany, Europe’s biggest economy, has agreed to commit more than 1 trillion euros ($1.1 trillion) in fiscal stimulus and support — roughly 30% of that nation’s entire annual output. France, Spain and Italy have launched similar programs.

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

In the United States, more than 69,000 people have been sickened and more than 1,000 have died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585219043906.png" alt="View of the the U.S. Senate floor as they passed the $2 Trillion Coronavirus Economic Stimulus Bill, 96-0.&nbsp; -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>View of the the U.S. Senate floor as they passed the $2 Trillion Coronavirus Economic Stimulus Bill, 96-0.&nbsp; -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate passed an unparalleled $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The CARES Act provides one of the most powerful and timely economic relief packages in our nation&#39;s history and I&#39;m glad the Senate finally passed this crucial legislation. <a href="https://t.co/80GnZCiJL2">https://t.co/80GnZCiJL2</a> <a href="https://t.co/KTIM9td6UR">pic.twitter.com/KTIM9td6UR</a>&mdash; Senator Pat Roberts (@SenPatRoberts) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenPatRoberts/status/1243024323746684928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The unanimous vote Wednesday came despite misgivings on both sides about whether it goes too far or not far enough and capped days of difficult negotiations as Washington confronted a national challenge unlike it has ever faced.The 880-page measure is the largest economic relief bill in U.S. history. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared somber and exhausted as he announced the vote — and he released senators from Washington until April 20, though he promised to recall them if needed.“The legislation now before us now is historic because it is meant to match a historic crisis,” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. “Our health care system is not prepared to care for the sick. Our workers are without work. Our businesses cannot do business. Our factories lie idle. The gears of the American economy have ground to a halt.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: The Senate just passed the CARES Act, Phase III of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> relief efforts. Our country is facing a pandemic, and we must act now to make certain Kansans have the support they need to weather this storm.&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1243033520160804869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The package is intended as relief for an economy spiraling into recession or worse and a nation facing a grim toll from an infection that’s killed more than 21,000 people worldwide. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, asked how long the aid would keep the economy afloat, said: “We’ve anticipated three months. Hopefully, we won’t need this for three months.”Underscoring the effort’s sheer magnitude, the bill finances a response with a price tag that equals half the size of the entire $4 trillion-plus annual federal budget. The $2.2 trillion estimate is the White House’s best guess.Insistently optimistic, President Donald Trump said of the greatest public health emergency in anyone’s lifetime, “I don’t think its going to end up being such a rough patch” and anticipated the economy soaring “like a rocket ship” when it’s over.“The government has temporarily shut down the economy because of this disease, and the government must help those who are hurt by it,” said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.The drive by leaders to speed the bill through the Senate was slowed as four conservative Republican senators from states whose economies are dominated by low-wage jobs demanded changes, saying the legislation as written might give workers like store clerks incentives to stay on unemployment instead of return to their jobs since they may earn more money if they’re laid off than if they’re working. They settled for a failed vote to modify the provision.Other objections floated in from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has become a prominent Democrat on the national scene as the country battles the pandemic. Cuomo, whose state has seen more deaths from the pandemic than any other, said, “I’m telling you, these numbers don’t work.”Ardent liberals like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were restless as well, but top Washington Democrats assured them that additional coronavirus legislation will follow this spring and signaled that delaying the pending measure would be foolish.The sprawling measure is the third coronavirus response bill produced by Congress and by far the largest. It builds on efforts focused on vaccines and emergency response, sick and family medical leave for workers and food aid.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., swung behind the bipartisan agreement, saying it “takes us a long way down the road in meeting the needs of the American people.”Senate passage delivered the legislation to the Democratic-controlled House, which is expected to pass it Friday. House members are scattered around the country. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said the measure would pass by voice vote without lawmakers having to return to Washington.The package would give direct payments to most Americans, expand unemployment benefits and provide a $367 billion program for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home.It includes a heavily negotiated $500 billion program for guaranteed, subsidized loans to larger industries, including airlines. Hospitals would get significant help as well.Six days of arduous talks produced the bill, creating tensions among Congress’ top leaders, who each took care to tend to party politics as they maneuvered and battled over crafting the legislation. But failure was not an option — nor was starting over — which permitted both sides to include their priorities.“This is a proud moment for the United States Senate and the country, and we’re going to win this battle,” McConnell told reporters afterward. “We’ve pivoted from impeachment to 100-to-nothing on this rescue package … this is about as flawless as you could possibly be.” The vote actually was 96-0 because several members missed the vote out of concerns they have been exposed to the virus.Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has tested positive for it, while GOP Whip John Thune returned to South Dakota on Wednesday after feeling ill.The bill would provide one-time direct payments to Americans of $1,200 per adult making up to $75,000 a year and $2,400 to a married couple making up to $150,000, with $500 payments per child.A huge cash infusion for hospitals expecting a flood of COVID-19 patients grew during the talks to an estimated $130 billion. Another $45 billion would fund additional relief through the Federal Emergency Management Agency for local response efforts and community services.Democrats said the package would help replace the salaries of furloughed workers for four months, rather than the three months first proposed. Furloughed workers would get whatever amount a state usually provides for unemployment, plus a $600-per-week add-on, with gig workers like Uber drivers covered for the first time.Businesses controlled by members of Congress and top administration officials, including Trump and his immediate family members, would be ineligible for the bill’s business assistance.Schumer boasted of negotiating wins for transit systems, hospitals and cash-hungry state governments that were cemented after Democrats blocked the measure in votes held Sunday and Monday.But Cuomo said the Senate package would send less than $4 billion to New York, far short of his estimate that the crisis will cost his state up to $15 billion over the next year. More than 280 New Yorkers have died from the virus, a death toll more than double that of any other state.Still, Pelosi said the need for more money for New York is “no reason to stop the step we are taking.”Pelosi was a force behind $400 million in grants to states to expand voting by mail and other steps that Democrats billed as making voting safer but Republican critics called political opportunism. The package also contains $15.5 billion more for a surge in demand for food stamps as part of a massive $330 billion title for agency operations.State and local authorities would receive up to $150 billion in grants to fight the virus, care for their residents and provide basic services.Republicans won inclusion of an employee retention tax credit that’s estimated to provide $50 billion to companies that retain employees on payroll and cover 50% of workers’ paycheck up to $10,000. Companies would also be able to defer payment of the 6.2% Social Security payroll tax.A companion appropriations package ballooned as well, growing from a $46 billion White House proposal to $330 billion, which dwarfs earlier disasters — including Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy combined.Europe is enacting its own economic recovery packages, with huge amounts of credit guarantees, government spending and other support.Germany, Europe’s biggest economy, has agreed to commit more than 1 trillion euros ($1.1 trillion) in fiscal stimulus and support — roughly 30% of that nation’s entire annual output. France, Spain and Italy have launched similar programs.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.In the United States, more than 69,000 people have been sickened and more than 1,000 have died.

Senate unanimously passes massive coronavirus aid plan

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska has approved an $83.6 million emergency relief package to help public health officials respond to new coronavirus as the number of cases continued to rise and Lincoln city officials imposed new rules that will close some businesses and restrict how others can operate. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the new funding bill Wednesday to pay for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers. 

He also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will be forced to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. 

Nebraska has had 66 COVID-19 cases as of Wednesday, which was two more than on Tuesday.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska has approved an $83.6 million emergency relief package to help public health officials respond to new coronavirus as the number of cases continued to rise and Lincoln city officials imposed new rules that will close some businesses and restrict how others can operate. Gov. Pete Ricketts signed the new funding bill Wednesday to pay for additional medical and cleaning supplies, tests and overtime for state health care workers. He also added Lancaster, Dodge and Saunders counties to the list of places where restaurants and bars will be forced to close their dining rooms because of the health risk. Nebraska has had 66 COVID-19 cases as of Wednesday, which was two more than on Tuesday.

Nebraska OKs $83.6M virus package as more cases surface

LINCOLN, Neb. – In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission temporarily will close state park lodging in April.

Game and Parks will close park lodging facilities and cabin rentals April 1-30. A possible extension period may be implemented if conditions do not improve. Tent camping and RV camping are available and will be evaluated regularly, following state and federal directives, as well as local health department guidelines.

Public shower buildings are closed through April 30, but park bathrooms, which are sanitized regularly, remain open. The agency is taking proactive measures to protect its customers and employees, including using approved cleaning and disinfecting regiments per Centers for Disease Control recommendations.

Game and Parks will continue to look at other ways to self-limit occupancy and reduce congregations of people to prevent the spread of the virus. Nebraska state parks and recreation areas currently remain open for day use, hiking, camping, fishing, and recreation while maintaining social distancing.

Keep up to date on all cancellations, postponements and closures for Game and Parks at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjUuMTkzMDE3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.2PCf7iPhSZIPeSzIwLiNU3xBrcRB3ZNmfyXVrDNpToI/br/76622764747-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>. Guests impacted by the closure should contact Reservations at 402-471-1414, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjUuMTkzMDE3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25lYnJhc2thc3RhdGVwYXJrcy5yZXNlcnZlYW1lcmljYS5jb20vIn0.KreCoVOkSUZLnbKgBng_21H9UZavKSWtB3-5LaYRCYs/br/76622764747-l" target="_blank">Nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com</a>, or contact the parks directly for refund information.

LINCOLN, Neb. – In a proactive effort to prevent the potential for spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission temporarily will close state park lodging in April.Game and Parks will close park lodging facilities and cabin rentals April 1-30. A possible extension period may be implemented if conditions do not improve. Tent camping and RV camping are available and will be evaluated regularly, following state and federal directives, as well as local health department guidelines.Public shower buildings are closed through April 30, but park bathrooms, which are sanitized regularly, remain open. The agency is taking proactive measures to protect its customers and employees, including using approved cleaning and disinfecting regiments per Centers for Disease Control recommendations.Game and Parks will continue to look at other ways to self-limit occupancy and reduce congregations of people to prevent the spread of the virus. Nebraska state parks and recreation areas currently remain open for day use, hiking, camping, fishing, and recreation while maintaining social distancing.Keep up to date on all cancellations, postponements and closures for Game and Parks at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjUuMTkzMDE3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.2PCf7iPhSZIPeSzIwLiNU3xBrcRB3ZNmfyXVrDNpToI/br/76622764747-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/healthinfo</a>. Guests impacted by the closure should contact Reservations at 402-471-1414, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjUuMTkzMDE3MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25lYnJhc2thc3RhdGVwYXJrcy5yZXNlcnZlYW1lcmljYS5jb20vIn0.KreCoVOkSUZLnbKgBng_21H9UZavKSWtB3-5LaYRCYs/br/76622764747-l" target="_blank">Nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com</a>, or contact the parks directly for refund information.

State park lodging, cabins to be closed temporarily

By Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Department&nbsp;

“I wanted to take a few minutes and update the public on a few operational changes at the police department as our community works through the COVID-19 Pandemic. First and foremost, we as a department want you to feel safe and be well over the next several weeks by following the Panhandle Public Health District’s recommendations. If you have any questions, feel free to give me a call at 432-0510,” says Chief Lordino.

We have begun limiting our non-priority contacts and are trying to do most of our work over the phone or via email. Our interior department area is closed to only employees, but the lobby is still open to the public and we ask if you can conduct business through a phone call, we would encourage you do to so. If we do respond to a home or a business, we may ask the occupants to come outside, if weather permitting, before sending personnel inside the building or in an area that we cannot maintain a 6ft distance. We want everyone to be safe so please be patient with our changes over the next several weeks.

By Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Department&nbsp;“I wanted to take a few minutes and update the public on a few operational changes at the police department as our community works through the COVID-19 Pandemic. First and foremost, we as a department want you to feel safe and be well over the next several weeks by following the Panhandle Public Health District’s recommendations. If you have any questions, feel free to give me a call at 432-0510,” says Chief Lordino.We have begun limiting our non-priority contacts and are trying to do most of our work over the phone or via email. Our interior department area is closed to only employees, but the lobby is still open to the public and we ask if you can conduct business through a phone call, we would encourage you do to so. If we do respond to a home or a business, we may ask the occupants to come outside, if weather permitting, before sending personnel inside the building or in an area that we cannot maintain a 6ft distance. We want everyone to be safe so please be patient with our changes over the next several weeks.If you have any questions or concerns regarding our temporary operational changes or if they impact you in a way that you need to visit with me on the phone, please give me a call at the PD.

Coronavirus Update