Ricketts Dismissed Concerns, Ann Ashford Interview, Unemployment Worst Since Great Depression and More Top Local News for Friday, May 8

• In Douglas County, 69% of COVID-19 cases are among minority populations with Hispanics being the most affected. One World Community Health Center has seen 250 cases in the last 10 days, many of them linked to the area’s meatpacking plants.
• The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has cut its budget by 36% in response to the pandemic, furloughing some and eliminating other positions.
• As data shows the virus spreads when people gather, city and county officials said they still need people to limit social interaction and follow social distancing.
• As Tuesday’s primary approaches, in-state and out-of-state campaign donations have become a controversy for candidates in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District.
• Polling place changes are among many differences in-person voters can expect to see on primary day.
• The Omaha Chamber of Commerce has launched a new website to connect job seekers with resources to help their search.

Around the State

• As Nebraska reopens despite increasing infection rates, Gov. Pete Ricketts urged people to continue following social distancing guidelines or risk inviting another wave of infections.
• A new website will help Nebraska schools decide whether or not they’re ready to reopen this fall.
• As cases exceed 7,000 in Nebraska, one in six infected people are meat packing plant workers.
• As Nebraska’s new $27 million testing program hits a rocky start, it’s not the only state facing issues. Concerns have been raised in Iowa and Utah about the companies running all three programs.
• Though the economic downturn was sharp, Nebraska businesses can expect a quick recovery as well, states a new UNL report.
• A Tyson plant in Dakota City is reopening after closing for a week to deep clean.
• The state will open its third location for TestNebraska in Lincoln.
• Gov. Ricketts to hold daily press briefing today