TRENTON, Neb. -- Hitchcock County officials have announced that, after careful analysis of CDC recommendations on social distancing the decision has been made that public access to the Hitchcock County Courthouse is suspended until further notice. According to the release, all staff will report to offices at usual hours and maintain county business. ...

McCOOK, Neb. -- Despite the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Pete Ricketts has declared that the Primary Election will take place May 12th at the usual polling places. The Red Willow County Clerk has been receiving phone calls from citizens worried about going to the polls in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and reminds that early voting by mail is available...

CAMBRIDGE, Neb. -- Tri Valley Health System Diabetes Support Group on Monday, April 6 has been cancelled. Tri Valley Health System will be offering some informational videos on Facebook about Diabetes Footcare.

INDIANOLA, Neb. — At Christmas-time 2016, Lindsey Sughroue and Jeremiah Kerns thought they believed in long engagements. But when they decided during the last year that the time was right to tie the knot, they planned to get married on Lindsey’s dad’s birthday, April 4, 2020...

McCOOK, Neb. - Thanks to the generosity of two local organizations, an additional $100,000 in funds have been pledged toward a new account established to help respond to local issues connected with the COVID-19 pandemic. On Wednesday, the MNB Financial Services Inc. Board of Directors voted to donate $50,000 to the COVID-19 Response Account, which was established this week by the McCook Community Foundation Fund...

KEARNEY, Neb. – Students and others returning to the University of Nebraska at Kearney from out-of-state and international travel should self-quarantine for 14 days before or on their return to campus. Following recommendations from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, UNK students, faculty and staff who left Nebraska for spring break or other recent trips should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing, self-monitor for symptoms and self-quarantine for 14 days.. ...

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Nebraska Medical Association’s member physicians are calling on all industries to help fulfill an identified need of medical supplies for local physician clinics and hospitals statewide. The NMA is requesting any business that may have a bulk supply of medical equipment, such as surgical masks, N95 masks, eye protection, medical grade disposable gloves, and scrubs, to donate these much-needed supplies...

McCOOK, Neb.—McCook Public Schools, as well as hundreds of schools around the U.S., have closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so teachers, students and parents are relying solely on digital platforms and “outside the box” thinking to teach. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with federal and state officials, have recommended no gatherings larger than 10 people and to practice “social distancing” of six feet to contain the spread of the virus...

McCOOK, Neb. — Due to concerns related to the coronavirus and COVID-19 pandemic, the Red Willow County Courthouse in McCook is closed to the public until further notice. Even though the courthouse is closed to walk-in services, office staff members are still there to serve the public. Red Willow County officials encourage citizens to use the online services available or mail to conduct business...

McCOOK, Neb. -- In light of the coronavirus pandemic, the McCook Community Foundation Fund has established the COVID-19 Response Account in an effort to raise funds and make grants to local governmental and 501(c)(3) entities working to address the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the community, region, and vulnerable community members...

LINCOLN, Neb. – In an effort to meet some of the supply needs that have arisen with the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Cornhusker State Industries (CSI)*, which operates the industry shops for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), will soon begin producing hand sanitizer for utilization by staff members and distribution to other state agencies...

McCOOK, Neb. -- As of Monday morning, the courthouse and the sheriff’s office were closed to the public, although offices are still staffed and courthouse business could be conducted by calling individual offices. The jail will offer video visitation with inmates, and new inmates will be screened before they’re lodged. ...

McCOOK, Neb. -- In what he said was one of the toughest decisions made in his 40-plus years with the Ed Thomas YMCA, retiring executive director Michael Gonzales reported that the board of directors voted to close the facility until further notice. “We hope our members will continue to support the YMCA with their memberships during this time.”...

McCOOK, Neb. -- Public events and gatherings are limited to 10 people or fewer statewide, following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, which is to be effective at least through the end of March and may be extended. A copy of this guidance can be found on Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department’s website at www.swhealth.ne.gov...

Lincoln, Nemaha and Sarpy Counties reporting new cases LINCOLN, Neb. – Four additional cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were identified in three Nebraska counties. Two cases are Lincoln County residents. One is a female in her 40s who recently traveled to Colorado and the other is a male in his 20s who was in close contact with a person who previously tested positive for COVID-19. Both new cases are self-isolating at home -...

McCOOK, Neb. - Effective immediately, all City facilities will be locked down to the public. This includes the Municipal Center, located at 505 West C St. People can contact the police department for nonemergency services at (308)345-3450 and 911 for emergencies. For administrative services, please call (308)345-2022, option #0. City staff members will continue to work their normal hours and police and fire will continue 24 hour services...

McCOOK, Neb. — McCook Public Schools will remain closed three more weeks, until April 13 due to the continued concern over the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The school district first closed on March 16. McCook Schools Superintendent Grant Norgaard made the announcement today...

McCOOK, Neb. — The Museum of the High Plains and the historical Carnegie Library in downtown McCook will remain closed until, according to board president John Hubert, "we get an 'all-clear' from the Governor." The High Plains Museum joins other museums across America that are closing their doors until further notice, in an effort to reduce the possibility of exposure to and the spread of the coronavirus...

McCOOK, Neb. —With the COVID-19 Pandemic and the public being asked to lesson public contact, Community Hospital reminds patients of online resources which are available to pay hospital bills and access some medical records. The Community Hospital Patient Accounts department has this message for the public:...

McCOOK, Neb. -- Community Hospital requests no calls be made to the hospital about positive or potential COVID-19 cases in the area. The hospital cannot disclose this information. It is important that phones lines be kept available for healthcare operations and emergencies. Anyone with concerns or questions about COVID-19 and their health should contact the Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department at 308-345-4223...

The Curtis Medical Center and Trenton Medical Clinic have issued the following guidance on the COVID-19 Pandemic During this time we ask that no patients walk into the clinic unless they have previously called. For medication refills please contact your pharmacy who will contact us if needed...

McCook, Neb. —Healthcare partners from the area met at Community Hospital on Friday to discuss COVID-19 preparations, planning, messaging and resource ideas. Individuals were present from area nursing homes, the health department, EMS, assisted living facilities, clinic, hospital, a local durable medical provider and a pharmacy...

McCook, Neb. — Beginning Tuesday, Community Hospital began locking the main entrance doors at 5 PM Monday through Friday, and throughout the weekend. When the front doors are locked, patients should enter through the emergency room entrance. Signs will be posted...

McCOOK, Neb. — While the Red Willow County Courthouse is fully staffed, it is being closed to the public as a precaution in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Members of the public who want to participate in the weekly board meetings should call 308.345.1552 to transferred to the Board room’s conference phone...

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA) today announced it will offer educational programming for elementary and secondary students that will be available free to all Nebraska children beginning Monday, March 23. NSEA is partnering with News Channel Nebraska and Lincoln Public Schools on the project, with financial support from the National Education Association...

McCOOK, Neb. -- The Southwest Nebraska Community Theatre Association is canceling the remainder of the shows for its spring musical, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." The shows were to be held this coming Friday, Saturday and Sunday. "We are trying to protect our patrons, case and crews from any serious illness," according to the release. "If you purchased tickets and desire a refund, please call Gene Weedin at 308-340-5746. Thank you for your understanding."...

To McCook Senior High Students, Parents and Community, As things continue to progress with the Covid-19 Pandemic, Our focus at MHS is to ensure the continuity of learning as well as the safety and well being of students. We have been working this week on preparing for e-learning/Online learning in the event of additional school closure....

Highland Park facility locked down McCOOK, Neb. — As of today, no visitors are being allowed at Highland Park in McCook, and residents are not being allowed to leave, according to an official with the retirement facility.

McCOOK, Neb. — During the time the McCook Public Library is closed in an effort to reduce/prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus, starting today the McCook Public Library will offer “curb-side” pick-up of books, DVD’s and magazines. Library director Jody Crocker asks patrons to call (308) 345-1906 and librarians will gather up requested items. ...

CURTIS, Neb. — “Please stay safe and use caution! God bless.” This was the message Monday when organizers of the 60th annual “Living Picture Easter Pageant” in Curtis canceled its 60th performance due to concerns over possible exposure to and the spread of the coronavirus within large groups of people...

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -- Mid-Plains Community College is canceling a number of its upcoming events in an attempt to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and to protect its students, staff and the communities that it serves. Staff are still on campus and will continue to answer phone calls and emails. Whenever possible, prospective students and the public are encouraged to call and schedule an appointment prior to arriving on campus as many needs can be addressed virtually...

McCOOK, Neb. -- The hand-made wooden track for the mini horse race had been built for the St. Patrick GIFT Gala. The participants for the human horse race had been practicing for this weekend. And the hats for the Kentucky Derby-themed fund-raiser had been purchased...

McCOOK, Neb. — Starting today, McCook Public Schools will serve free meals to all children age 18 and under in the household, if at least one child attends McCook Public Schools. All children are eligible, not only for those who qualify for free lunches...

McCOOK, Neb. — Although classes at McCook Public Schools have been suspended, that doesn’t mean teachers aren’t working. Teachers and administrators in the district will spend the next three days creating online programs for their students, said McCook Schools Superintendent, Grant Norgaard...

LINCOLN, Neb. – As Nebraskans are taking preventative measures against COVID-19, the Drinking Water division of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) would like to remind everyone that drinking water remains safe to use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that COVID-19 has not been detected in drinking water, and that conventional water treatment methods of filtration and disinfection — which are in most municipal drinking water systems — should remove or inactivate the virus causing COVID-19.. ...

CAMBRIDGE, Neb. – The rise of the coronavirus is a global, national and local concern. Tri Valley Health System would like to assure patients and the community that Tri Valley Health System is taking all necessary precautions and providing tools to help keep everyone healthy. ...

GRAND ISLAND, Neb/ -- Fonner Park will oblige Grand Island, Nebraska Mayor Roger Steele’s request to close the Fonner Park live Thoroughbred racing season until further notice, to comply with Nebraska Governor Rickett’s request to limit sporting events to less than 250 people within the COVID-19 protocols established by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services...

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tennessee – March 16, 2020 – Dollar General Corporation (NYSE: DG) announced plans to dedicate the first hour of each shopping day to senior shoppers, as well as amend store operating hours beginning tomorrow, March 17, 2020. Senior Hour Encouragement...

LINCOLN, Neb. -- As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state rises, the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) is sharing additional guidance on alternate learning environments, nutrition, and assessment. In all recommendations, the priority remains the safety and well-being of all students, educators, staff, and community members...

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Visitation with inmates housed in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has been suspended indefinitely amid concerns about the coronavirus (COVID-19). NDCS Director Scott. R. Frakes said the decision comes at the right time for limiting the spread of the illness across the agency’s 10 facilities...

IMPERIAL, Neb. -- Mid-Plains Community College has canceled the groundbreaking ceremony for its Imperial Campus expansion that had been scheduled for Wednesday. It’s part of an effort by the college to assist in the mitigation of the spread of COVID-19 and to protect MPCC’s students, staff and the communities that it serves.The cancellation follows a recommendation by the CDC on Sunday that organizers of in-person events, consisting of 50 people or more, cancel or postpone activities throughout the U.S. ...

KEARNEY, Neb. -- Academic operations will transition fully to remote learning at the University of Nebraska at Kearney beginning Wednesday (March 18), Chancellor Doug Kristensen announced today. This is in response to changing recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and state and local officials in response to the health threat from the coronavirus (COVID-19)...

McCOOK, Neb. -- At a Special YMCA Board of Directors meeting this morning and in conjunction with the closing of school for one week, it was decided that all YMCA organized activities have been suspended for a one week period. No youth soccer games or practice, no adult volleyball or coed basketball. ...

CAMBRIDGE, Neb. -- In its continued efforts to promote public protection and safety, Pinpoint responded to today’s notice of closure of McCook Public Schools with an announcement that it, too, will implement established company safety protocols to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus by temporarily suspending service at its McCook office location - 312 W B St...

The National Junior College Athletic Association has cancelled all spring competition. The announcement ends the 2020 season for Mid-Plains teams. “In light of the progressive evolvement of the COVID-19 situation, the NJCAA has decided to end all competition for the remainder of the academic year,” stated Dr. ...

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook Family YMCA has set guidelines starting today though Sunday because of COVID-19 corona virus concerns: — No youth high school age or younger will be allowed in the YMCA as well as no non-members; — No adult sports; — No organized classes;...

In consideration of the COVID-19 situation the National Junior College Athletic Association has suspend all spring athletic competition beginning Saturday, March 14 through Friday, April 3. For McCook Community College, that affects 32 games/tournaments that were scheduled through April 3 including 16 softball games, 13 baseball games and three men’s golf tournaments...

McCOOK, Neb. — Local governments, schools and organizations throughout Southwest Nebraska are closing temporarily to help lessen the possibility of exposure to the coronavirus. While exposure seems remote here and no confirmed cases of COVID-19 are reported, most of those in charge locally are taking a “better safe than sorry” approach, feeling “over-reaction” is preferable to regret at not having done enough when it was possible...

LINCOLN, Neb. – This morning, Governor Pete Ricketts met with cabinet members at the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), as he unveiled new guidance further limiting public events and gatherings. “We are updating Nebraska’s guidance for closures and event sizes to align with new guidance issued by the CDC late yesterday,” said Governor Ricketts...

McCOOK, Neb. — All McCook Legion baseball try-outs set for this weekend have been canceled, McCook National Bank Seniors co-coach Jeff Holthus announced today. Holthus did say try-outs for the Seniors and First Central Bank Juniors will be scheduled at a later date as the nation-wide effort to halt spread of corona virus continues...

The Nebraska School Activities Association has curtailed spring activities. The NSAA released a statement Monday saying all practices are suspended until March 30, and all competitions are suspended until April 2. Those suspensions may be extended should conditions warrant...

CAMBRIDGE, Neb. -- Today Pinpoint announced two initiatives to support the proactive measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The first act Pinpoint offers is assurance that it will not disconnect services for customers impacted by any disruption the COVID-19 virus may cause over the next 60 days. While we don’t yet know what the effects may be to our consumers, Pinpoint wants to ensure our customers are able to be connected, even in times of distress...

McCook, Neb. —Beginning Monday, March 16, Community Hospital has discontinued visitors and added outpatient screenings until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Sharon Conroy, RN, Community Hospital Infection Preventionist. “At the moment, there are no known cases in our area,” she said. “But because there is no vaccine or anti-viral treatment for COVID-19, we feel this is the best way to protect our patients, visitors and staff.”...

CAMBRIDGE, Neb. -- Tri Valley Health System is currently monitoring the Coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19 daily and assessing the local risk. At this time all patients are being screened for travel history and symptoms as well as signage posted. If you have traveled to an affected area and are having a fever over 100.4, cough and/or shortness of breath, please call prior to arriving at Tri Valley Health System (308-697-3329.) This will help us treat you and protect our facility. ...

McCOOK, Neb. — Hillcrest Nursing Home is restricting visitors to only those who absolutely need to be in the home, according to a release Thursday. “Any visitors/community members/vendors MUST enter and sign in at the front desk or nurses’ station. ...