Lincoln, NE – April 19, 2024 – Starting in May, Nebraska Lottery players will be able to play Lotto America®, a multi-state Lotto game offered by 13 lotteries across the United States.

Lotto America is a $1 Lotto game with a jackpot that starts at $2 million and grows each time it is not won. Tickets will go on sale at retailers across Nebraska on May 19.

“We are excited to add Lotto America to our product lineup,” said Brian Rockey, Nebraska Lottery Director. “Many players have asked us to offer Lotto America in the past, and the game fits in well with our existing draw games. As with all Nebraska Lottery games a portion of every ticket sold goes to support good causes across Nebraska.”

Proceeds from the sale of Lottery tickets benefit the environment, education, the Nebraska State Fair, and problem gamblers assistance. Over $965 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993.

Each Lotto America play costs $1. Players select five white ball numbers from 1 to 52 and one Star Ball® number from 1 to 10. To win the jackpot prize, players must match all six winning numbers. The second prize of $20,000 can be won by matching all five white ball numbers. Other cash prizes range from $1,000 to $2.

The odds of winning the Lotto America jackpot are 1 in 25,989,600. The jackpot can be paid as an annuity with 30 graduated payments over 29 years, or one lump sum payment. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 9.63.

A prize multiplier option called the All Star Bonus® is available for an additional $1 per play. The All Star Bonus can multiply all prize levels except the jackpot by 2, 3, 4 or 5 times. More information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVJEHFXYfsti7i719-2F1453gfBfgi2ONS1TBR2R3ugrXmC9Zah_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnuxacx8bsijm9WjtxYE4U5LngWiHNfc7IUGd0XFziQlkiH8ZKtlVfn4sRrjYKPuzHOR2xthWWSCZ418QTnBBEpUXxAqBCBOL13yikXrgv17Ca5RZ73be0l6jqyVkBVSRgZRLmB6QfL6yETIytyWfYduBAZKvTuoGu81dplLpgLdzCsekkt4-2BhTO4nYS7rU3KlF1NG-2BfgdQQneoc25tS1TDbKKVsBOly5BnC-2BlzxhhfHh0e0fCt1Hl2DS6c-2BnjI6my" target="_blank">powerball.com/lotto-america</a>.

Lotto America drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday after 9:15 p.m. CT. Winning numbers will be available at the Nebraska Lottery website,&nbsp;<a href="http://nelottery.com/" target="_blank">nelottery.com</a>, on the Nebraska Lottery mobile app and on the Nebraska Lottery Player’s Hotline at 800-224-LUCK (402-471-6139 in Lincoln).

The 13 lotteries currently offering Lotto America are: Delaware Lottery; Idaho Lottery; Iowa Lottery; Kansas Lottery; Maine Lottery; Minnesota Lottery; Montana Lottery; New Mexico Lottery; North Dakota Lottery; Oklahoma Lottery; South Dakota Lottery; Tennessee Lottery; and the West Virginia Lottery.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $978 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713539977727.png" alt="(Courtesy of Nebraska Lottery)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy of Nebraska Lottery)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska LotteryLincoln, NE – April 19, 2024 – Starting in May, Nebraska Lottery players will be able to play Lotto America®, a multi-state Lotto game offered by 13 lotteries across the United States.Lotto America is a $1 Lotto game with a jackpot that starts at $2 million and grows each time it is not won. Tickets will go on sale at retailers across Nebraska on May 19.“We are excited to add Lotto America to our product lineup,” said Brian Rockey, Nebraska Lottery Director. “Many players have asked us to offer Lotto America in the past, and the game fits in well with our existing draw games. As with all Nebraska Lottery games a portion of every ticket sold goes to support good causes across Nebraska.”Proceeds from the sale of Lottery tickets benefit the environment, education, the Nebraska State Fair, and problem gamblers assistance. Over $965 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993.Each Lotto America play costs $1. Players select five white ball numbers from 1 to 52 and one Star Ball® number from 1 to 10. To win the jackpot prize, players must match all six winning numbers. The second prize of $20,000 can be won by matching all five white ball numbers. Other cash prizes range from $1,000 to $2.The odds of winning the Lotto America jackpot are 1 in 25,989,600. The jackpot can be paid as an annuity with 30 graduated payments over 29 years, or one lump sum payment. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 9.63.A prize multiplier option called the All Star Bonus® is available for an additional $1 per play. The All Star Bonus can multiply all prize levels except the jackpot by 2, 3, 4 or 5 times. More information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVJEHFXYfsti7i719-2F1453gfBfgi2ONS1TBR2R3ugrXmC9Zah_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnuxacx8bsijm9WjtxYE4U5LngWiHNfc7IUGd0XFziQlkiH8ZKtlVfn4sRrjYKPuzHOR2xthWWSCZ418QTnBBEpUXxAqBCBOL13yikXrgv17Ca5RZ73be0l6jqyVkBVSRgZRLmB6QfL6yETIytyWfYduBAZKvTuoGu81dplLpgLdzCsekkt4-2BhTO4nYS7rU3KlF1NG-2BfgdQQneoc25tS1TDbKKVsBOly5BnC-2BlzxhhfHh0e0fCt1Hl2DS6c-2BnjI6my" target="_blank">powerball.com/lotto-america</a>.Lotto America drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday after 9:15 p.m. CT. Winning numbers will be available at the Nebraska Lottery website,&nbsp;<a href="http://nelottery.com/" target="_blank">nelottery.com</a>, on the Nebraska Lottery mobile app and on the Nebraska Lottery Player’s Hotline at 800-224-LUCK (402-471-6139 in Lincoln).The 13 lotteries currently offering Lotto America are: Delaware Lottery; Idaho Lottery; Iowa Lottery; Kansas Lottery; Maine Lottery; Minnesota Lottery; Montana Lottery; New Mexico Lottery; North Dakota Lottery; Oklahoma Lottery; South Dakota Lottery; Tennessee Lottery; and the West Virginia Lottery.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $978 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Nebraska Lottery to Join Lotto America® Game

University of Nebraska System students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to meet Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., the priority candidate for president, ask questions, and hear about his leadership vision during a series of open forums.

Gold, the current executive vice president and provost of the University of Nebraska System and chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, was&nbsp;<a href="https://news.nebraska.edu/board-of-regents-names-jeffrey-p-gold-md-priority-candidate.html" target="_blank">named the priority candidate</a>&nbsp;for the University of Nebraska presidency on March 20, following a national search. As state law requires, he is undergoing a 30-day public vetting period. If, after the vetting period, the Board of Regents deems it appropriate, they will bring Gold’s appointment for consideration at a Board of Regents meeting.

University community members and the public are encouraged to submit feedback on Gold’s candidacy anytime during the vetting period by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/president-search/feedback" target="_blank">nebraska.edu/president-search/feedback</a>.

10:30am CT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Auditorium, Ag Industry Education Center

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 404 E 7th&nbsp;Street, Curtis

1:30pm CT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; West Central Research, Extension, and Education&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Center

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;402 West State Farm Road, North Platte

3:00pm MT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Center

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713536263335.jpeg" alt="Jeffrey Gold (Courtesy of University of Nebraska System)" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Gold (Courtesy of University of Nebraska System)</figcaption>
 </figure>University of Nebraska SystemsUniversity of Nebraska System students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to meet Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., the priority candidate for president, ask questions, and hear about his leadership vision during a series of open forums.Gold, the current executive vice president and provost of the University of Nebraska System and chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, was&nbsp;<a href="https://news.nebraska.edu/board-of-regents-names-jeffrey-p-gold-md-priority-candidate.html" target="_blank">named the priority candidate</a>&nbsp;for the University of Nebraska presidency on March 20, following a national search. As state law requires, he is undergoing a 30-day public vetting period. If, after the vetting period, the Board of Regents deems it appropriate, they will bring Gold’s appointment for consideration at a Board of Regents meeting.University community members and the public are encouraged to submit feedback on Gold’s candidacy anytime during the vetting period by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/president-search/feedback" target="_blank">nebraska.edu/president-search/feedback</a>.Additional public forums are as follows:Wednesday, April 24, 202410:30am CT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Auditorium, Ag Industry Education Center&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 404 E 7th&nbsp;Street, Curtis1:30pm CT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; West Central Research, Extension, and Education&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Center&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;402 West State Farm Road, North Platte3:00pm MT&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Center&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff

Additional Public forums for Priority Candidate Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. announced in Curtis, North Platte

North Platte, Ne - Former Nascar Driver Kyle Petty is bringing his 2024 Kyle Petty Charity Ride Accross America through Nebraska on Saturday, May 4. The more than 150 motorcycle riders will be stopping for the night at the Holiday Inn Express in North Platte around 7pm and will setting up an area in the parking lot for fans to gather and meet and greet with many of the celebrity's making the trip.&nbsp;

Among the celebrities participating in the 2024 Ride are NASCAR Hall of Famers&nbsp;Richard Petty&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hershel McGriff; former NASCAR drivers&nbsp;Max Papis,&nbsp;David Ragan,&nbsp;Ken Schrader&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kenny Wallace; former NFL great and Heisman Trophy winner&nbsp;Herschel Walker; and TV personalities&nbsp;Rick Allen&nbsp;who is from Nebraska and&nbsp;Rutledge Wood.

That same evening Ken Schrader and Kenny Wallace will drive in the stock car races at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1004551704767641&amp;set=pb.100056384629769.-2207520000">Lincoln County Raceway in North Platte</a>.

LISTEN TO INTERVIEW WITH KYLE PETTY (BELOW) <a href="http://www.npkubota.com">sponsored by North Platte Kubota</a>.

North Platte, Ne - Former Nascar Driver Kyle Petty is bringing his 2024 Kyle Petty Charity Ride Accross America through Nebraska on Saturday, May 4. The more than 150 motorcycle riders will be stopping for the night at the Holiday Inn Express in North Platte around 7pm and will setting up an area in the parking lot for fans to gather and meet and greet with many of the celebrity's making the trip.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709746964000.jpeg" alt="Richard Petty &amp; Kyle Petty on Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America" />
 <figcaption>Richard Petty &amp; Kyle Petty on Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America</figcaption>
 </figure>Among the celebrities participating in the 2024 Ride are NASCAR Hall of Famers&nbsp;Richard Petty&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hershel McGriff; former NASCAR drivers&nbsp;Max Papis,&nbsp;David Ragan,&nbsp;Ken Schrader&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kenny Wallace; former NFL great and Heisman Trophy winner&nbsp;Herschel Walker; and TV personalities&nbsp;Rick Allen&nbsp;who is from Nebraska and&nbsp;Rutledge Wood.That same evening Ken Schrader and Kenny Wallace will drive in the stock car races at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1004551704767641&amp;set=pb.100056384629769.-2207520000">Lincoln County Raceway in North Platte</a>.LISTEN TO INTERVIEW WITH KYLE PETTY (BELOW) <a href="http://www.npkubota.com">sponsored by North Platte Kubota</a>.<div><iframe title="Former Nascar Driver Kyle Petty Previews Charity Motorcycle Ride Stop in North Platte Planned For May 4" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=g5idv-15ed791-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

(Podcast) Former Nascar Driver Kyle Petty Previews Charity Motorcycle Ride Stop in North Platte Planned For May 4

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) and the Nebraska Respite Network invite family caregivers to enjoy a break at the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha on June 1st.

“Are you a family caregiver in need of a break? Learn about respite!” said Paula Wimer, Respite Coordinator for the Southwest Service Area of the Nebraska Respite Network. “Caring for a loved one with a disability or a chronic medical condition can take a toll, both emotionally and financially. Respite care allows you to take time for yourself so you can be a better family caregiver.”

Family caregivers are often referred to as the backbone of America’s long-term care system. Respite care - planned or emergency - is the provision of short-term, temporary relief to those who are caring for family members with special needs. Respite also provides a positive experience for the person receiving care.

Even though many families take great joy in providing care to their loved ones so that they can remain at home, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences for the family caregiver can be overwhelming. Sometimes caregivers are so busy caring for others that they ignore their own needs.

“It’s okay to take an occasional break from caregiving!” encouraged Wimer. “Taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to help your loved one.”

The Southwest Service Area is partnering with other regions in the state to sponsor an event for families to take a break and learn more about respite. The Respite Zoo Picnic will be held at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on Saturday, June 1st from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. There will be free admission, an animal encounter in a private pavilion, dinner, and rides. Families interested in participating can call (402) 552-2566. There is limited space so please RSVP by May 15th.

Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network is a program that supplies funding and referrals for respite services. When a family caregiver needs a break, a respite provider will supply care for their loved one(s). If you are caring for a loved one and would like to learn more about respite services, contact Paula at 308-345-4990 or visit respite.ne.gov. The Lifespan Respite Network Southwest Service Area serves Arthur, Chase, Dawson, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Gosper, Grant, Hayes, Hitchcock, Hooker, Keith, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Perkins, Red Willow, and Thomas counties.

Southwest Nebraska Public Health DepartmentSouthwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) and the Nebraska Respite Network invite family caregivers to enjoy a break at the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha on June 1st.“Are you a family caregiver in need of a break? Learn about respite!” said Paula Wimer, Respite Coordinator for the Southwest Service Area of the Nebraska Respite Network. “Caring for a loved one with a disability or a chronic medical condition can take a toll, both emotionally and financially. Respite care allows you to take time for yourself so you can be a better family caregiver.”Family caregivers are often referred to as the backbone of America’s long-term care system. Respite care - planned or emergency - is the provision of short-term, temporary relief to those who are caring for family members with special needs. Respite also provides a positive experience for the person receiving care.Even though many families take great joy in providing care to their loved ones so that they can remain at home, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences for the family caregiver can be overwhelming. Sometimes caregivers are so busy caring for others that they ignore their own needs.“It’s okay to take an occasional break from caregiving!” encouraged Wimer. “Taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to help your loved one.”The Southwest Service Area is partnering with other regions in the state to sponsor an event for families to take a break and learn more about respite. The Respite Zoo Picnic will be held at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on Saturday, June 1st from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. There will be free admission, an animal encounter in a private pavilion, dinner, and rides. Families interested in participating can call (402) 552-2566. There is limited space so please RSVP by May 15th.Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network is a program that supplies funding and referrals for respite services. When a family caregiver needs a break, a respite provider will supply care for their loved one(s). If you are caring for a loved one and would like to learn more about respite services, contact Paula at 308-345-4990 or visit respite.ne.gov. The Lifespan Respite Network Southwest Service Area serves Arthur, Chase, Dawson, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Gosper, Grant, Hayes, Hitchcock, Hooker, Keith, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Perkins, Red Willow, and Thomas counties.

Respite Event for Family Caregivers

The Weekly Nebraska Outdoor Report with Nebraska Game and Parks Public Information Officer, Julie Geiser. On this episode Julie Geiser talks about preparation for the Fishing season which is right around the corner.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655146989142.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>The Weekly Nebraska Outdoor Report with Nebraska Game and Parks Public Information Officer, Julie Geiser. On this episode Julie Geiser talks about preparation for the Fishing season which is right around the corner.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Outdoor Report with Julie Geiser as she prepares Nebraska for the Fishing season" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=r23d5-15ed58e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Outdoor Report with Julie Geiser as she prepares Nebraska for the Fishing season

Since 2018, Nebraska Bank has actively invested in the business and agriculture leaders of tomorrow through the Nebraska Bank Scholarship program. As of April 2024, the bank has awarded $53,000 in education scholarships to high school seniors across Nebraska.&nbsp;

For consideration, applicants must have expressed interest in pursuing a banking, business, or an agriculture related degree. In addition, the scholarship is intended to benefit students who would consider returning to a rural community in Nebraska upon graduation. Lastly, selected recipients have also demonstrated an exceptional interest in community as well as the ability to balance academics and extracurricular activities during high school. Each winning applicant will receive a $1,000 scholarship toward their education this fall.&nbsp;

Nebraska Bank is pleased to announce the 2024 Nebraska Bank Scholarship recipients: (name, home town, high school)&nbsp;

Meg Anderson, Dodge (West Point-Beemer)&nbsp;

Harrison Barnette, Bridgeport (Bridgeport Public Schools)&nbsp;

Kenli Boeselager, Chadron (Chadron High School)&nbsp;

Paige Drueke, Naper (Boyd County Schools)&nbsp;

Chloe Frerking, Martell (Norris High School)&nbsp;

Cory Gubbels, Stuart (Stuart High School)&nbsp;

Amelia Hakl, Spencer (Boyd County Schools)&nbsp;

Jake Harder, Belden (Randolph High School)&nbsp;

Carlye Kresl, Hemingford (Hemingford High School)&nbsp;

Faith Oldemeyer, Firth (Oldemeyer Academy of Learning)&nbsp;

The Nebraska Bank team would like to congratulate these outstanding students!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713537691499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sarah Sasse-Kildow&nbsp;Nebraska BankSince 2018, Nebraska Bank has actively invested in the business and agriculture leaders of tomorrow through the Nebraska Bank Scholarship program. As of April 2024, the bank has awarded $53,000 in education scholarships to high school seniors across Nebraska.&nbsp;For consideration, applicants must have expressed interest in pursuing a banking, business, or an agriculture related degree. In addition, the scholarship is intended to benefit students who would consider returning to a rural community in Nebraska upon graduation. Lastly, selected recipients have also demonstrated an exceptional interest in community as well as the ability to balance academics and extracurricular activities during high school. Each winning applicant will receive a $1,000 scholarship toward their education this fall.&nbsp;Nebraska Bank is pleased to announce the 2024 Nebraska Bank Scholarship recipients: (name, home town, high school)&nbsp;Meg Anderson, Dodge (West Point-Beemer)&nbsp;Harrison Barnette, Bridgeport (Bridgeport Public Schools)&nbsp;Kenli Boeselager, Chadron (Chadron High School)&nbsp;Paige Drueke, Naper (Boyd County Schools)&nbsp;Chloe Frerking, Martell (Norris High School)&nbsp;Cory Gubbels, Stuart (Stuart High School)&nbsp;Amelia Hakl, Spencer (Boyd County Schools)&nbsp;Jake Harder, Belden (Randolph High School)&nbsp;Carlye Kresl, Hemingford (Hemingford High School)&nbsp;Faith Oldemeyer, Firth (Oldemeyer Academy of Learning)&nbsp;The Nebraska Bank team would like to congratulate these outstanding students!&nbsp;

Nebraska Bank Awards Ten College Scholarships featuring three students from the Panhandle

Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Taylor Hicks from RDAP to discuss Sexual Assault Awareness Month. During the conversation, the two talked about Teal Day which is this Friday, upcoming events and fundraisers, what RDAP is, how the community can help and more. If you would like to visit RDAP website, <a href="https://nprdap.org/">click here</a>. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Taylor Hicks from RDAP to discuss Sexual Assault Awareness Month. During the conversation, the two talked about Teal Day which is this Friday, upcoming events and fundraisers, what RDAP is, how the community can help and more. If you would like to visit RDAP website, <a href="https://nprdap.org/">click here</a>. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Taylor Hicks with RDAP talks about Sexual Assault Awareness Month" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ubrbp-15ec226-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

(Audio) Taylor Hicks with RDAP talks about Sexual Assault Awareness Month

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific dramatically reduced its use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-government-and-politics-00794c18cbcb86cb23eec7958d0b3b4d">temporary limits</a>&nbsp;on some businesses' shipments over the past year after its customers complained, but regulators said Wednesday the railroad must go further to be in line with the other major freight railroads that rarely use such embargoes.

Even though Union Pacific went from imposing 1,081 embargoes in 2022 to just 181 last year, the Surface Transportation Board said that was still more than all the other major freight railroads combined. The board did note, however, that the drop “is a positive and welcome step.”

The limits have been traditionally used only in extreme circumstances when something outside a railroad's control, like a flood or bridge fire, makes it hard for them to keep up. But over the past few years, Union Pacific had gotten in the habit of imposing embargoes whenever their railroad got congested to force businesses to temporarily limit their shipments and pull some of their railcars off of UP’s network.

An embargo can force a business to consider cutting production or resorting to more expensive shipping options, like trucking, if that’s even an option. And they can make it harder for other businesses to get the key products, such as shipments of chlorine used to treat water, or grain for feeding animals.

Many businesses are served by only one railroad. Their bulk products may not be well suited to being delivered by trucks, so they don’t have many options when Union Pacific imposes limits.

Regulators had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/28652f6baad4048b30315d9e6a58a3e7">twice order</a>&nbsp;the railroad to deliver emergency shipments to livestock producer Foster Farms to ensure that company wouldn’t run out of feed for the millions of chickens it raises.

Jeff Sloan, senior director of regulatory affairs at the American Chemistry Council trade group, said he was glad to see UP reducing its use of embargoes along with the STB's promise to continue monitoring the railroad.

“We definitely support strong board oversight of railroads’ use of embargoes to make sure they’re not being misused,” Sloan said.

Business groups and members of the STB contended at a hearing on the embargoes that the main reason Union Pacific couldn't keep up with all the shipments was because the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad had failed to hire enough train crews.

Union Pacific and the other major freight railroads have all been hiring aggressively over the past two years to help them improve service. The railroads have acknowledged that they cut their workforce too deep during the pandemic and had a hard time hiring enough workers to handle the rebound in the economy. So&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">customer service</a>&nbsp;suffered, particularly in 2022 when the board held a hearing on the industrywide problems.

At the time the STB held a hearing on Union Pacific's embargoes in December 2022 the railroad's executives argued the limits were necessary to help improve the performance of the railroad.

It wasn't immediately clear how much Union Pacific has changed its policy since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-ceo-jim-vena-06b2fbdf515e7f5aa8d82c0b2cafbc88">Jim Vena</a>&nbsp;became CEO last summer because the railroad didn't address that in its response to Wednesday's decision.

As part of its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stb.gov/news-communications/latest-news/pr-24-17/">order</a>, the Surface Transportation Board scolded Union Pacific for taking months to produce documents and answer questions throughout the proceeding.

“UP’s conduct in this regard bordered on the contumacious and cannot be viewed as acceptable conduct by a railroad subject to the Board’s statutory authority,” the board wrote.

The railroad defended the way it replied to the STB and its use of embargoes in a statement.

“Union Pacific responded to the STB’s inquires with thousands of documents and through many meetings and touchpoints,” the railroad said. “The STB’s ruling is a positive step forward and our service performance indicators have improved significantly over the past year. As a common carrier, embargoes are an important tool to maintain fluidity for all customers.”

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific dramatically reduced its use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-government-and-politics-00794c18cbcb86cb23eec7958d0b3b4d">temporary limits</a>&nbsp;on some businesses' shipments over the past year after its customers complained, but regulators said Wednesday the railroad must go further to be in line with the other major freight railroads that rarely use such embargoes.Even though Union Pacific went from imposing 1,081 embargoes in 2022 to just 181 last year, the Surface Transportation Board said that was still more than all the other major freight railroads combined. The board did note, however, that the drop “is a positive and welcome step.”The limits have been traditionally used only in extreme circumstances when something outside a railroad's control, like a flood or bridge fire, makes it hard for them to keep up. But over the past few years, Union Pacific had gotten in the habit of imposing embargoes whenever their railroad got congested to force businesses to temporarily limit their shipments and pull some of their railcars off of UP’s network.An embargo can force a business to consider cutting production or resorting to more expensive shipping options, like trucking, if that’s even an option. And they can make it harder for other businesses to get the key products, such as shipments of chlorine used to treat water, or grain for feeding animals.Many businesses are served by only one railroad. Their bulk products may not be well suited to being delivered by trucks, so they don’t have many options when Union Pacific imposes limits.Regulators had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/28652f6baad4048b30315d9e6a58a3e7">twice order</a>&nbsp;the railroad to deliver emergency shipments to livestock producer Foster Farms to ensure that company wouldn’t run out of feed for the millions of chickens it raises.Jeff Sloan, senior director of regulatory affairs at the American Chemistry Council trade group, said he was glad to see UP reducing its use of embargoes along with the STB's promise to continue monitoring the railroad.“We definitely support strong board oversight of railroads’ use of embargoes to make sure they’re not being misused,” Sloan said.Business groups and members of the STB contended at a hearing on the embargoes that the main reason Union Pacific couldn't keep up with all the shipments was because the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad had failed to hire enough train crews.Union Pacific and the other major freight railroads have all been hiring aggressively over the past two years to help them improve service. The railroads have acknowledged that they cut their workforce too deep during the pandemic and had a hard time hiring enough workers to handle the rebound in the economy. So&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">customer service</a>&nbsp;suffered, particularly in 2022 when the board held a hearing on the industrywide problems.At the time the STB held a hearing on Union Pacific's embargoes in December 2022 the railroad's executives argued the limits were necessary to help improve the performance of the railroad.It wasn't immediately clear how much Union Pacific has changed its policy since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-ceo-jim-vena-06b2fbdf515e7f5aa8d82c0b2cafbc88">Jim Vena</a>&nbsp;became CEO last summer because the railroad didn't address that in its response to Wednesday's decision.As part of its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stb.gov/news-communications/latest-news/pr-24-17/">order</a>, the Surface Transportation Board scolded Union Pacific for taking months to produce documents and answer questions throughout the proceeding.“UP’s conduct in this regard bordered on the contumacious and cannot be viewed as acceptable conduct by a railroad subject to the Board’s statutory authority,” the board wrote.The railroad defended the way it replied to the STB and its use of embargoes in a statement.“Union Pacific responded to the STB’s inquires with thousands of documents and through many meetings and touchpoints,” the railroad said. “The STB’s ruling is a positive step forward and our service performance indicators have improved significantly over the past year. As a common carrier, embargoes are an important tool to maintain fluidity for all customers.”

Regulators pleased Union Pacific is using fewer temporary shipping limits

&nbsp; This release was originally issued by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stg-logistics-and-union-pacific-railroad-extend-long-running-partnership-to-deliver-consumer-goods-302119937.html">STG Logistics</a>

<a href="https://www.stgusa.com/">STG Logistics</a>, a leading provider of transportation and logistics solutions, is pleased to announced an extended, long-term partnership with&nbsp;<a href="http://up.com/">Union Pacific Railroad</a>. The agreement builds upon three decades of STG and Union Pacific working together to deliver goods and products to consumers, while ensuring continuity and excellence within the nation’s supply chain.

“We are extremely excited about this partnership,” said Tyler Holtgreven, Senior Vice President of Operations with STG. “This new contract will help STG with our growth trajectory while continuing a relationship that reflects our values and our vision for the future of intermodal.”

Moving freight by rail offers a variety of benefits, including reduced carbon emissions, making it an environmentally responsible option. Rail transportation also offers cost-effective solutions for long-distance freight hauling, leading to economic efficiency and sustainability for customers.

“We are proud of the long and successful history we share with STG Logistics,” said Kari Kirchhoefer, Senior Vice President – Marketing and Sales, Union Pacific Railroad. “Our partnership is a reflection of our mutual commitment to providing safe, reliable and environmentally responsible service to our customers.”

STG is a leading national containerized logistics services provider including asset-based intermodal transportation, marine and rail drayage, warehousing and CFS solutions and over the road FTL and LTL services. With over 35 years of experience in domestic logistics STG has access to every major rail ramp and port in the country. STG is a portfolio company of Wind Point Partners and Oaktree Capital Management.

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713464670941.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy of Union Pacific)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy of Union Pacific)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; This release was originally issued by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stg-logistics-and-union-pacific-railroad-extend-long-running-partnership-to-deliver-consumer-goods-302119937.html">STG Logistics</a><a href="https://www.stgusa.com/">STG Logistics</a>, a leading provider of transportation and logistics solutions, is pleased to announced an extended, long-term partnership with&nbsp;<a href="http://up.com/">Union Pacific Railroad</a>. The agreement builds upon three decades of STG and Union Pacific working together to deliver goods and products to consumers, while ensuring continuity and excellence within the nation’s supply chain.“We are extremely excited about this partnership,” said Tyler Holtgreven, Senior Vice President of Operations with STG. “This new contract will help STG with our growth trajectory while continuing a relationship that reflects our values and our vision for the future of intermodal.”Moving freight by rail offers a variety of benefits, including reduced carbon emissions, making it an environmentally responsible option. Rail transportation also offers cost-effective solutions for long-distance freight hauling, leading to economic efficiency and sustainability for customers.“We are proud of the long and successful history we share with STG Logistics,” said Kari Kirchhoefer, Senior Vice President – Marketing and Sales, Union Pacific Railroad. “Our partnership is a reflection of our mutual commitment to providing safe, reliable and environmentally responsible service to our customers.”<h2>About STG Logistics</h2>STG is a leading national containerized logistics services provider including asset-based intermodal transportation, marine and rail drayage, warehousing and CFS solutions and over the road FTL and LTL services. With over 35 years of experience in domestic logistics STG has access to every major rail ramp and port in the country. STG is a portfolio company of Wind Point Partners and Oaktree Capital Management.<h2>About Union Pacific</h2>Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.

STG Logistics and Union Pacific Railroad Extend Long-Running Partnership to Deliver Consumer Goods

Workers installing a light pole in Missouri cut into a fiber line, knocking out 911 service for emergency agencies in Nebraska, Nevada and South Dakota, an official with the company that operates the fiber line said Thursday.

Problems with 911 calls in a Texas city along the U.S. border with Mexico were unrelated, officials said, but the widespread outage created concerns about what was causing the problems.

For most agencies, it turned out to be the result of simple human error.

In Kansas City, Missouri, workers installing a light pole for another company Wednesday cut into a Lumen Technologies fiber line, Lumen global issues director Mark Molzen said in an email to The Associated Press. Service was restored within 2 1/2 hours, he said. There were no reports of 911 outages in Kansas City.

Meanwhile, the difficulties some cellphone callers experienced making 911 calls in in Del Rio, Texas, were apparently because of an outage involving a cellular carrier, not the city's 911 system, city spokesman Peter Ojeda said. Lumen is not a 911 service provider for Texas.

Federal officials were looking into the outage.

“When you call 911 in an emergency, it is vital that call goes through. The FCC has already begun investigating the 911 multi-state outages that occurred last night to get to the bottom of the cause and impact," Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which houses the National 911 Program, said in a statement that its Office of Emergency Medical Services “is monitoring this issue.”

The outages created confusion for some people trying to reach emergency agencies.

The Dundy County Sheriff’s Office in Nebraska warned in a social media post Wednesday night that 911 callers would receive a busy signal and urged people to instead call the administrative phone line. About three hours later, officials said mobile and landline 911 services had been restored.

In Douglas County, Nebraska, home to Omaha and more than a quarter of the state’s residents, 911 Director Kathy Allen said Lumen informed the agency at 1:42 a.m. Thursday that service was restored, but the county “did experience a few more issues.” Service was fully restored by 4 a.m., Allen said in a statement.

Cut fiber lines and other problems have caused 911 outages in recent years in Nebraska. The issue was worrisome enough that the Nebraska Public Service Commission hosted a hearing on the topic in December.

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety said in statement posted on social media Wednesday night that the 911 service interruption occurred throughout the state. The agency noted that texting to 911 was working in most locations and people could still reach local law enforcement through non-emergency lines. Less than two hours later, the agency said service was restored.

Officials in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, said during a news conference Thursday that the outage was unprecedented.

“To our knowledge, we have never experienced an outage of this magnitude or duration,” Assistant Fire Chief Mike Gramlick said.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department 911 Communications warned Wednesday evening of an outage affecting 911 and non-emergency calls in a social media post. Calls from landlines were not working, but officials said they could see the numbers of those who called from cellphones.

“Dial on a mobile device, and we will be able to see your number and will call you back right away,” the department posted.

About two hours later, the department posted that service was restored, and everyone who called during the outage had been called back and provided assistance.

Roger Entner, an analyst with Recon Analytics, said the depth of buried fiber lines varies greatly. In some places — often in neighborhoods — the line may be just a few inches (centimeters) deep. Elsewhere, it might be buried much deeper.

Entner said he was surprised by the outage because it is common to have “redundant lines,” meaning that if one line is damaged, a backup line will continue to carry the service.

Brian Fontes, CEO of the National Emergency Number Association, said in a statement that the outage highlights the importance of congressional funding to update critical telecommunications services.

The threat to connectivity is exacerbated in the current environment “where specialized 9-1-1 trunks and selective routers create single points of failure,” Fontes said in a statement. He urged Congress to fund an upgraded system built to better withstand disasters and cyberattacks.

In Del Rio, a city of 35,000 residents, police on Wednesday posted that “an outage with a major cellular carrier” was to blame. Del Rio had the opposite problem of Las Vegas — 911 calls from cellphones didn’t work, so those needing help were urged to use a landline or another cell carrier.

The outages, ironically, occurred in the midst of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713468897111.jpeg" alt="Emergency 911 number is dialed on a mobile phone, Thursday, April 18, 2024, in St. Louis. Law enforcement agencies in Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota and Texas reported temporary outages to 911 services on Wednesday before saying hours later that services had been restored. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)" />
 <figcaption>Emergency 911 number is dialed on a mobile phone, Thursday, April 18, 2024, in St. Louis. Law enforcement agencies in Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota and Texas reported temporary outages to 911 services on Wednesday before saying hours later that services had been restored. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)</figcaption>
 </figure>Associated PressWorkers installing a light pole in Missouri cut into a fiber line, knocking out 911 service for emergency agencies in Nebraska, Nevada and South Dakota, an official with the company that operates the fiber line said Thursday.Problems with 911 calls in a Texas city along the U.S. border with Mexico were unrelated, officials said, but the widespread outage created concerns about what was causing the problems.For most agencies, it turned out to be the result of simple human error.In Kansas City, Missouri, workers installing a light pole for another company Wednesday cut into a Lumen Technologies fiber line, Lumen global issues director Mark Molzen said in an email to The Associated Press. Service was restored within 2 1/2 hours, he said. There were no reports of 911 outages in Kansas City.Meanwhile, the difficulties some cellphone callers experienced making 911 calls in in Del Rio, Texas, were apparently because of an outage involving a cellular carrier, not the city's 911 system, city spokesman Peter Ojeda said. Lumen is not a 911 service provider for Texas.Federal officials were looking into the outage.“When you call 911 in an emergency, it is vital that call goes through. The FCC has already begun investigating the 911 multi-state outages that occurred last night to get to the bottom of the cause and impact," Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which houses the National 911 Program, said in a statement that its Office of Emergency Medical Services “is monitoring this issue.”The outages created confusion for some people trying to reach emergency agencies.The Dundy County Sheriff’s Office in Nebraska warned in a social media post Wednesday night that 911 callers would receive a busy signal and urged people to instead call the administrative phone line. About three hours later, officials said mobile and landline 911 services had been restored.In Douglas County, Nebraska, home to Omaha and more than a quarter of the state’s residents, 911 Director Kathy Allen said Lumen informed the agency at 1:42 a.m. Thursday that service was restored, but the county “did experience a few more issues.” Service was fully restored by 4 a.m., Allen said in a statement.Cut fiber lines and other problems have caused 911 outages in recent years in Nebraska. The issue was worrisome enough that the Nebraska Public Service Commission hosted a hearing on the topic in December.The South Dakota Department of Public Safety said in statement posted on social media Wednesday night that the 911 service interruption occurred throughout the state. The agency noted that texting to 911 was working in most locations and people could still reach local law enforcement through non-emergency lines. Less than two hours later, the agency said service was restored.Officials in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, said during a news conference Thursday that the outage was unprecedented.“To our knowledge, we have never experienced an outage of this magnitude or duration,” Assistant Fire Chief Mike Gramlick said.Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department 911 Communications warned Wednesday evening of an outage affecting 911 and non-emergency calls in a social media post. Calls from landlines were not working, but officials said they could see the numbers of those who called from cellphones.“Dial on a mobile device, and we will be able to see your number and will call you back right away,” the department posted.About two hours later, the department posted that service was restored, and everyone who called during the outage had been called back and provided assistance.Roger Entner, an analyst with Recon Analytics, said the depth of buried fiber lines varies greatly. In some places — often in neighborhoods — the line may be just a few inches (centimeters) deep. Elsewhere, it might be buried much deeper.Entner said he was surprised by the outage because it is common to have “redundant lines,” meaning that if one line is damaged, a backup line will continue to carry the service.Brian Fontes, CEO of the National Emergency Number Association, said in a statement that the outage highlights the importance of congressional funding to update critical telecommunications services.The threat to connectivity is exacerbated in the current environment “where specialized 9-1-1 trunks and selective routers create single points of failure,” Fontes said in a statement. He urged Congress to fund an upgraded system built to better withstand disasters and cyberattacks.In Del Rio, a city of 35,000 residents, police on Wednesday posted that “an outage with a major cellular carrier” was to blame. Del Rio had the opposite problem of Las Vegas — 911 calls from cellphones didn’t work, so those needing help were urged to use a landline or another cell carrier.The outages, ironically, occurred in the midst of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Light pole installation hits fiber line, knocks out 911 service in several states

Law enforcement agencies in Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota and Texas reported temporary outages to 911 services before saying hours later that services had been restored. It was not immediately clear what caused the outages or whether they were related.

Also unclear was whether any emergency situations were impacted. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which houses the National 911 Program, said in a statement that its Office of Emergency Medical Services “is monitoring this issue.” A spokesperson didn't immediately respond to a request for additional information. A message also was left Thursday with the Federal Communications Commission.

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety said in statement posted on social media Wednesday night that it was aware of a 911 service interruption throughout the state. The agency noted that texting to 911 was working in most locations and people could still reach local law enforcement through non-emergency lines. Less than two hours later, the agency said service was restored to the state’s 911 system.

The same evening, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department 911 Communications warned of an outage affecting 911 and non-emergency calls in a social media post. Calls from landlines were not working, but officials said they could see the numbers of those who called from cellphones.

In Nebraska, the sheriff’s offices in several counties, including Dundy, Kearney, Howard, Lincoln, Keith, warned Wednesday night that 911 services were down, but advised a few hours later those services had been restored.

The police department in Del Rio, Texas, a city of 35,000 residents along the U.S.-Mexico border, posted that “an outage with a major cellular carrier” was to blame. It didn’t say which carrier. Del Rio had the opposite problem of Las Vegas — 911 calls from cellphones didn’t work, so those needing help were urged to use a landline or another cell carrier.

Associated PressLaw enforcement agencies in Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota and Texas reported temporary outages to 911 services before saying hours later that services had been restored. It was not immediately clear what caused the outages or whether they were related.Also unclear was whether any emergency situations were impacted. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which houses the National 911 Program, said in a statement that its Office of Emergency Medical Services “is monitoring this issue.” A spokesperson didn't immediately respond to a request for additional information. A message also was left Thursday with the Federal Communications Commission.The South Dakota Department of Public Safety said in statement posted on social media Wednesday night that it was aware of a 911 service interruption throughout the state. The agency noted that texting to 911 was working in most locations and people could still reach local law enforcement through non-emergency lines. Less than two hours later, the agency said service was restored to the state’s 911 system.The same evening, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department 911 Communications warned of an outage affecting 911 and non-emergency calls in a social media post. Calls from landlines were not working, but officials said they could see the numbers of those who called from cellphones.“Dial on a mobile device, and we will be able to see your number and will call you back right away,” the department posted.About two hours later, the department posted that service was restored, and everyone who called during the outage had been called back and provided assistance.In Nebraska, the sheriff’s offices in several counties, including Dundy, Kearney, Howard, Lincoln, Keith, warned Wednesday night that 911 services were down, but advised a few hours later those services had been restored.Cut fiber lines and other problems have caused 911 outages in recent years in Nebraska. The issue was worrisome enough that the Nebraska Public Service Commission hosted a hearing on the topic in December.The police department in Del Rio, Texas, a city of 35,000 residents along the U.S.-Mexico border, posted that “an outage with a major cellular carrier” was to blame. It didn’t say which carrier. Del Rio had the opposite problem of Las Vegas — 911 calls from cellphones didn’t work, so those needing help were urged to use a landline or another cell carrier.The outages, ironically, occurred in the midst of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Law enforcement officials in 4 states report temporary 911 outages

The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. (CDT) Wednesday, April 17, 2024,&nbsp;in Room 213 of McMillen Hall on the McCook Community College Campus, 1205 E. Third St., McCook, Neb.

Board Chair Cynthia Duncan started the meeting with a roll call. In addition to Duncan, those present were MPCC President Ryan Purdy and Board members: Kirk Crawley, Ted Klug Jr., Kim Korgan, Ben Lashley, Ernie Mehl, Kent Miller and Tricia Schaffer. Board members Jo Etta Brown, Matthew Broz and Tyler Pribbeno were absent and excused.

NPCC student trustee Reece Halley and MCC student trustee Graci Nelson were also present.

2. OPEN FORUM (Comments from students, faculty, staff, public and Board)

a. NPCC student trustee Reece Halley provided an update on happenings in North Platte, and MCC student trustee Graci Nelson reported on student activities in McCook.

b. Cesilia Iniguez, outreach administrative assistant for the MPCC Imperial Campus, was introduced to the Board.

c. The Board was also introduced to Terra Michaelis, MCC Learning Commons assistant.

a. The Board was introduced to Miriam Voehl and Harmonie Rodgers, members of MCC’s Phi Beta Lambda chapter. Member Ethan Brousseau was recognized but unable to attend the meeting. All three placed in the top five at the recent FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference in Kearney. Additionally, Brousseau was named to Who’s Who in Nebraska FBLA-Collegiate, and the MCC chapter received the Gold Excellence award.

b. The Board was introduced to members of the MCC women’s basketball team. The team earned a share of the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference championship, while finishing the 2023-24 season with a 17-15 overall record. Gemma Gruettner-Bacoul and Audra Vine were both selected to the Region IX’s All-South Team while Gruettner-Bacoul also earned All-Defensive-Team honors and was named to the All-Tournament Team. Additionally, Gruettner-Bacoul, Vine and Suzan Sisman were named to the NCCAC All-Conference Team. Gruettner Bacoul was also named to the Omaha World-Herald’s All-Midlands Junior College First Team and Vine was Honorable Mention.

4. CONSENT ITEMS.&nbsp;On a single consent motion, the board approved:

a. Minutes from the March 20 Board work session and regular meeting.

c. The retirement of Becky Meyers, graphic design instructor, effective May 15.

a. The Board approved bills for March in the amount of $2,928,623.97.

b. The Board approved the Medical Laboratory Technician program review as presented and the forwarding of the report to the Coordinating Commission for Post Secondary Education. 

c. The Board approved a five-year contract for Jenzabar Campus Marketplace software at a cost of $248,653.41.

a. Cabinet Reports: The Board heard reports from MPCC President Ryan Purdy, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen, Vice President of Administrative Services Mike Steele, Director of Institutional Effectiveness Tad Pfeifer, Director of Human Resources Rebecca Wrage, Director of Institutional Advancement Jake Rissler and Director of Marketing and Public Information Daniel Stinman.

a. The Board went into closed session at 7:47 p.m. to discuss personnel.

b. The Board reconvened in open session at 8:18 p.m. No action was taken after reconvening in open session.

Upon hearing no further business, the Board moved to adjourn at 8:19 p.m. The next Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. May 22 in Valentine.

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALLThe Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. (CDT) Wednesday, April 17, 2024,&nbsp;in Room 213 of McMillen Hall on the McCook Community College Campus, 1205 E. Third St., McCook, Neb.Board Chair Cynthia Duncan started the meeting with a roll call. In addition to Duncan, those present were MPCC President Ryan Purdy and Board members: Kirk Crawley, Ted Klug Jr., Kim Korgan, Ben Lashley, Ernie Mehl, Kent Miller and Tricia Schaffer. Board members Jo Etta Brown, Matthew Broz and Tyler Pribbeno were absent and excused.NPCC student trustee Reece Halley and MCC student trustee Graci Nelson were also present.2. OPEN FORUM (Comments from students, faculty, staff, public and Board)a. NPCC student trustee Reece Halley provided an update on happenings in North Platte, and MCC student trustee Graci Nelson reported on student activities in McCook.b. Cesilia Iniguez, outreach administrative assistant for the MPCC Imperial Campus, was introduced to the Board.c. The Board was also introduced to Terra Michaelis, MCC Learning Commons assistant.3. RECOGNITIONSa. The Board was introduced to Miriam Voehl and Harmonie Rodgers, members of MCC’s Phi Beta Lambda chapter. Member Ethan Brousseau was recognized but unable to attend the meeting. All three placed in the top five at the recent FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference in Kearney. Additionally, Brousseau was named to Who’s Who in Nebraska FBLA-Collegiate, and the MCC chapter received the Gold Excellence award.b. The Board was introduced to members of the MCC women’s basketball team. The team earned a share of the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference championship, while finishing the 2023-24 season with a 17-15 overall record. Gemma Gruettner-Bacoul and Audra Vine were both selected to the Region IX’s All-South Team while Gruettner-Bacoul also earned All-Defensive-Team honors and was named to the All-Tournament Team. Additionally, Gruettner-Bacoul, Vine and Suzan Sisman were named to the NCCAC All-Conference Team. Gruettner Bacoul was also named to the Omaha World-Herald’s All-Midlands Junior College First Team and Vine was Honorable Mention.4. CONSENT ITEMS.&nbsp;On a single consent motion, the board approved:a. Minutes from the March 20 Board work session and regular meeting.b. The financial report for March.c. The retirement of Becky Meyers, graphic design instructor, effective May 15.5. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY LAWa. The Board approved bills for March in the amount of $2,928,623.97.b. The Board approved the Medical Laboratory Technician program review as presented and the forwarding of the report to the Coordinating Commission for Post Secondary Education. c. The Board approved a five-year contract for Jenzabar Campus Marketplace software at a cost of $248,653.41.6. REPORTSa. Cabinet Reports: The Board heard reports from MPCC President Ryan Purdy, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen, Vice President of Administrative Services Mike Steele, Director of Institutional Effectiveness Tad Pfeifer, Director of Human Resources Rebecca Wrage, Director of Institutional Advancement Jake Rissler and Director of Marketing and Public Information Daniel Stinman.7. CLOSED SESSIONa. The Board went into closed session at 7:47 p.m. to discuss personnel.b. The Board reconvened in open session at 8:18 p.m. No action was taken after reconvening in open session.8. ADJOURNMENT&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon hearing no further business, the Board moved to adjourn at 8:19 p.m. The next Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. May 22 in Valentine.FUTURE REPORTS<ul>
 <li>May – CCPE Program Reviews</li><li>July – Quarterly Facilities Master Plan</li><li>July – Quarterly Financial Report</li><li>July – Institutional Advancement and Grants</li><li>September – Annual Report</li><li>October – Quarterly FMP Report</li><li>November – Auditor’s Report</li><li>November – Retention and Enrollment</li><li>February – Retention and Enrollment</li><li>March – Program Scorecard</li><li>March – Accreditation Report</li><li>April – Quarterly Facilities Master Plan</li><li>April – Quarterly Financial Report</li><li>April – Three-year Capital Improvement Plan</li><li>April – Three-year Instructional Equipment Plan</li>
 </ul>UPCOMING MEETINGS<ul>
 <li>May 22 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., MPCC Valentine Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 17 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., McMillen Hall #213, McCook Community College</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Aug. 21 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Sept. 25 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Oct. 23 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., McMillen Hall #213, McCook Community College</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Nov. 20 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Dec. 18 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

MPCC Board of Governors meeting wrap up report

911 services at the North Platte Police Department Dispatch Center have been restored.&nbsp; The cause of the 911 outage is unknown and is currently being investigated by the Nebraska Public Service Commission.

NPPD911 services at the North Platte Police Department Dispatch Center have been restored.&nbsp; The cause of the 911 outage is unknown and is currently being investigated by the Nebraska Public Service Commission.

NPPD says 911 services have been restored

North Platte, Neb. - The Nebraska VR North Platte office invites the public to attend a meet and greet Thursday, April 18th from 1:00-3:00pm in North Platte. The event will take place at 200 South Silber Building 2. The Nebraska VR provides opportunities for people with disabilities to succeed. The meet and greet is an opportunity for employers to connect with Nebraska VR but also Indvidual's to learn more about what Nebraska VR has to offer.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Bobbi Belka from the Nebraska VR about the event and learned more about Nebraska VR. If you would like to check out their website, <a href="http://www.vr.nebraska.gov/">click here. </a>To learn more about the event, check out the podcast below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;North Platte, Neb. - The Nebraska VR North Platte office invites the public to attend a meet and greet Thursday, April 18th from 1:00-3:00pm in North Platte. The event will take place at 200 South Silber Building 2. The Nebraska VR provides opportunities for people with disabilities to succeed. The meet and greet is an opportunity for employers to connect with Nebraska VR but also Indvidual's to learn more about what Nebraska VR has to offer.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713387873055.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Earlier in the week, Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Bobbi Belka from the Nebraska VR about the event and learned more about Nebraska VR. If you would like to check out their website, <a href="http://www.vr.nebraska.gov/">click here. </a>To learn more about the event, check out the podcast below.<div><iframe title="(Audio) Nebraska VR hosting meet and greet event Thursday in North Platte" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sexqu-15ea839-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

(Audio) Nebraska VR hosting meet and greet event Thursday in North Platte

North Platte, NE - NebraskaLand Bank is proud to celebrate the graduation of 35 students as they complete their journey through the NebraskaLand University Financial Literacy Scholarship Program.&nbsp; Senator Mike Jacobson, President and CEO of NebraskaLand Bank will address the graduates and award scholarships and certificates of completion on behalf of NebraskaLand Bank on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. The ceremony will be held in the third floor Banquet Room at NebraskaLand Bank’s Main Location on 1400 South Dewey.&nbsp;

The graduates, who completed the required attendance and coursework during the past six months, will be presented with a certificate and a $250 academic scholarship.&nbsp; Each student was required to complete all six classes in order to graduate and become eligible for the $250 scholarship.&nbsp; In addition, students were required to complete an essay judged by a Bank committee.&nbsp; The students with the highest scores will be the recipients of a $1,000.00, $750.00, or $500.00 scholarship. This year's essay contest winners will receive more than just a scholarship; Kelly Lammers Director of Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance will present the top three essay writers with a special commemorative coin. This unique keepsake is an inspiring reminder that financial literacy requires dedication, hard work, and commitment to build something lasting. The winners will be announced at the graduation ceremony and the top winner will be asked to read their essay.&nbsp;

“We are proud of what our students have accomplished, and we are confident that the financial skills and education they obtained at NebraskaLand University has given them the foundation they need to be financially successful later in life,” said Senator Mike Jacobson, President and CEO of NebraskaLand Bank.

NebraskaLand University is a six-course financial literacy program designed to educate students on budgeting, savings, credit, loans, career and wealth development, identity theft protection, and more.&nbsp; The curriculum uses a combination of established financial literacy materials and unique lesson plans created and instructed by Senior and Executive Officers at NebraskaLand Bank.

NebraskaLand BankNorth Platte, NE - NebraskaLand Bank is proud to celebrate the graduation of 35 students as they complete their journey through the NebraskaLand University Financial Literacy Scholarship Program.&nbsp; Senator Mike Jacobson, President and CEO of NebraskaLand Bank will address the graduates and award scholarships and certificates of completion on behalf of NebraskaLand Bank on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. The ceremony will be held in the third floor Banquet Room at NebraskaLand Bank’s Main Location on 1400 South Dewey.&nbsp;The graduates, who completed the required attendance and coursework during the past six months, will be presented with a certificate and a $250 academic scholarship.&nbsp; Each student was required to complete all six classes in order to graduate and become eligible for the $250 scholarship.&nbsp; In addition, students were required to complete an essay judged by a Bank committee.&nbsp; The students with the highest scores will be the recipients of a $1,000.00, $750.00, or $500.00 scholarship. This year's essay contest winners will receive more than just a scholarship; Kelly Lammers Director of Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance will present the top three essay writers with a special commemorative coin. This unique keepsake is an inspiring reminder that financial literacy requires dedication, hard work, and commitment to build something lasting. The winners will be announced at the graduation ceremony and the top winner will be asked to read their essay.&nbsp;“We are proud of what our students have accomplished, and we are confident that the financial skills and education they obtained at NebraskaLand University has given them the foundation they need to be financially successful later in life,” said Senator Mike Jacobson, President and CEO of NebraskaLand Bank.NebraskaLand University is a six-course financial literacy program designed to educate students on budgeting, savings, credit, loans, career and wealth development, identity theft protection, and more.&nbsp; The curriculum uses a combination of established financial literacy materials and unique lesson plans created and instructed by Senior and Executive Officers at NebraskaLand Bank.

NebraskaLand Bank Hosts NebraskaLand University Graduation Ceremony

Grant, Neb. - Road work is underway east of Grant from N-61 junction the Perkins-Lincoln County line according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT). A highway shouldering and seeding project began April 15 on N-23.

State maintenance forces will be performing the work, which includes the grading and repair of the sod shoulders with seeding and mulching to follow. Traffic will be maintained with pilot car and flaggers. The work is anticipated to take 20 days.

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and put phones down.

Sandhills PostGrant, Neb. - Road work is underway east of Grant from N-61 junction the Perkins-Lincoln County line according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT). A highway shouldering and seeding project began April 15 on N-23.State maintenance forces will be performing the work, which includes the grading and repair of the sod shoulders with seeding and mulching to follow. Traffic will be maintained with pilot car and flaggers. The work is anticipated to take 20 days.Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and put phones down.

Maintenance Work Underway near Grant

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/17/broadcasters-mount-last-minute-blitz-to-delete-tax-on-digital-ads-from-pillen-plan/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska’s broadcasters are mounting an 11th-hour advertising blitz in hopes of overturning a proposed new tax on “digital ads” by Gov. Jim Pillen to finance his property tax relief plan.

The ads, which started running over the weekend on Nebraska radio and television stations, say the 7.5% excise tax on ads that run on some state broadcasting outlets, as well as on social media giants Facebook and Google, would “destroy many small businesses,” by reducing sales and forcing layoffs.

The ads urge listeners to contact their senator: “Nebraska needs to create jobs, not tax businesses to death.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/10/nebraska-property-tax-relief-plan-is-pared-back-more-advances-to-final-reading/">Legislative Bill 388, Pillen’s tax plan,</a>&nbsp;comes up for final approval on Thursday — the final day of the 2024 session — and there’s little hope of a last-minute amendment, according to Jim Timm, president and executive director of the Nebraska Broadcasters Association.

But Timm said state legislators could, at the last second, defeat LB 388 and leave the tax debate for later, during a much-threatened special session this summer.

“I’d like to think maybe there’s some room for that,” Timm said. “We’re hoping to have some more time to negotiate something that wouldn’t be so harmful.”

The tax on digital ads applies only to companies with “combined gross advertising revenue” of more than $1 billion, which would aim squarely at platforms like Google and Facebook that run advertising.

But Timm said the “$1 billion” standard also applies to a handful of Nebraska broadcasting outlets that are owned by large, national chains. Think Omaha’s KFAB, which is owned by iHeart Radio Network, or Gray Television, which owns stations in 114 markets, including Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, North Platte and Scottsbluff.

Even some stations that aren’t part of a national chain sell digital products that are purchased from Google and Facebook, he said, which means an added 7.5% cost for businesses to market their products.

<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/09/proposed-digital-ads-tax-would-devastate-small-businesses-like-mine/">In a recent commentary</a>&nbsp;in the Examiner, the co-founder of the popular eCreamery ice cream parlor in Omaha said that 90% of its revenue comes from online sales.

“Most people don’t know it, but it’s our online business that keeps our neighborhood shop doors open,” wrote Abby Jordan, the co-owner.

The tax on digital ads was one of several options laid out by the Pillen administration to raise $1 billion in new state revenue to allow a corresponding decrease in local property taxes. The goal of the tax shift was to reduce property taxes by another 20%, which combined with past tax laws, meant a total cut of 40%.

The 7.5% excise tax on such ads was projected to bring in about $54 million in new revenue. It was a major portion of an effort to broaden the sales tax base to include new taxes on pop and candy, ag repair parts and business legal services, as well as increased taxes on cigarettes, vaping products and CBD gummies.

But in last-minute amendments last week, several of the new taxes were cut out of LB 388 or severely reduced, such as the proposed increase in taxes on a pack of cigarettes which fell from the original $2-a-pack increase to 36 cents.

The end result is that LB 388 is projected to cut local property taxes by 22%, not 40%, fueling speculation, and outright threats by the governor, of a special session to finish the job this summer.

The tax on digital ads remained in the bill, which Timm said ran contrary to&nbsp; “an understanding” that it would be removed, as had print advertising sold by the state’s newspapers.

“We were shocked and disappointed that we were not cut out of it,” Timm said.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the main sponsor of LB 388 on behalf of the governor, said she was unaware of any deals. “No one talked to me,” Linehan said, though she admitted that “a lot was going on” last week concerning the proposal.

However, Thurston Sen. Joni Albrecht, who introduced the digital ad bill on behalf of Pillen, said she was aware of an effort to remove the tax from Nebraska broadcasters, which she had been advised by Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers would have made the bill unconstitutional.

During debate a week ago, Dunbar Sen. Julie Slama introduced an amendment to remove digital ads entirely from LB 388.

Slama, a lawyer, argued that the only other state that had tried to tax digital ads, Maryland, has been tied up in court by multiple lawsuits and that it made no sense for Nebraska to pass a similar bill that was constitutionally suspect.

“I don’t think we’ll collect any dollars from this tax before a (court) injunction is filed,” Slama told fellow lawmakers last week.

But her amendment fell short, on a 18-18 vote, seven short of the “yes” votes needed.

Later, LB 388 advanced to final-round debate on a 28-14 vote, which, while enough to pass, is five votes short of what would be needed to shut off a filibuster.

Albrecht, during floor debate last week, argued that Nebraska’s digital tax was different from Maryland’s and that the attorney general had advised her that it was constitutional — as long as an amendment to exempt Nebraska digital advertisers wasn’t adopted.

She said that a tax on digital ads was among a list of proposed tax changes handed out by the Pillen administration and that she unaware it might impact some Nebraska outlets, such as KFAB.

The governor was seeking $1 billion in new revenue to lower property taxes, Albrecht said, and the money has to come from somewhere.

&nbsp;“Everyone says everything’s going to hurt their business,” she said. “You can’t win.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713378690664.jpeg" alt="The final day of the 2024 session of the Nebraska Legislature is Thursday, though many expect a special session to be held this summer on Gov. Pillen’s hope to cut property taxes by 40%. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The final day of the 2024 session of the Nebraska Legislature is Thursday, though many expect a special session to be held this summer on Gov. Pillen’s hope to cut property taxes by 40%. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/17/broadcasters-mount-last-minute-blitz-to-delete-tax-on-digital-ads-from-pillen-plan/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska’s broadcasters are mounting an 11th-hour advertising blitz in hopes of overturning a proposed new tax on “digital ads” by Gov. Jim Pillen to finance his property tax relief plan.The ads, which started running over the weekend on Nebraska radio and television stations, say the 7.5% excise tax on ads that run on some state broadcasting outlets, as well as on social media giants Facebook and Google, would “destroy many small businesses,” by reducing sales and forcing layoffs.The ads urge listeners to contact their senator: “Nebraska needs to create jobs, not tax businesses to death.”<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/10/nebraska-property-tax-relief-plan-is-pared-back-more-advances-to-final-reading/">Legislative Bill 388, Pillen’s tax plan,</a>&nbsp;comes up for final approval on Thursday — the final day of the 2024 session — and there’s little hope of a last-minute amendment, according to Jim Timm, president and executive director of the Nebraska Broadcasters Association.But Timm said state legislators could, at the last second, defeat LB 388 and leave the tax debate for later, during a much-threatened special session this summer.“I’d like to think maybe there’s some room for that,” Timm said. “We’re hoping to have some more time to negotiate something that wouldn’t be so harmful.”The tax on digital ads applies only to companies with “combined gross advertising revenue” of more than $1 billion, which would aim squarely at platforms like Google and Facebook that run advertising.<h2>Tax hits Nebraska stations</h2>But Timm said the “$1 billion” standard also applies to a handful of Nebraska broadcasting outlets that are owned by large, national chains. Think Omaha’s KFAB, which is owned by iHeart Radio Network, or Gray Television, which owns stations in 114 markets, including Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, North Platte and Scottsbluff.Even some stations that aren’t part of a national chain sell digital products that are purchased from Google and Facebook, he said, which means an added 7.5% cost for businesses to market their products.<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/09/proposed-digital-ads-tax-would-devastate-small-businesses-like-mine/">In a recent commentary</a>&nbsp;in the Examiner, the co-founder of the popular eCreamery ice cream parlor in Omaha said that 90% of its revenue comes from online sales.“Most people don’t know it, but it’s our online business that keeps our neighborhood shop doors open,” wrote Abby Jordan, the co-owner.The tax on digital ads was one of several options laid out by the Pillen administration to raise $1 billion in new state revenue to allow a corresponding decrease in local property taxes. The goal of the tax shift was to reduce property taxes by another 20%, which combined with past tax laws, meant a total cut of 40%.The 7.5% excise tax on such ads was projected to bring in about $54 million in new revenue. It was a major portion of an effort to broaden the sales tax base to include new taxes on pop and candy, ag repair parts and business legal services, as well as increased taxes on cigarettes, vaping products and CBD gummies.But in last-minute amendments last week, several of the new taxes were cut out of LB 388 or severely reduced, such as the proposed increase in taxes on a pack of cigarettes which fell from the original $2-a-pack increase to 36 cents.<h2>Bill amended, not a 22% reduction</h2>The end result is that LB 388 is projected to cut local property taxes by 22%, not 40%, fueling speculation, and outright threats by the governor, of a special session to finish the job this summer.The tax on digital ads remained in the bill, which Timm said ran contrary to&nbsp; “an understanding” that it would be removed, as had print advertising sold by the state’s newspapers.“We were shocked and disappointed that we were not cut out of it,” Timm said.State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the main sponsor of LB 388 on behalf of the governor, said she was unaware of any deals. “No one talked to me,” Linehan said, though she admitted that “a lot was going on” last week concerning the proposal.However, Thurston Sen. Joni Albrecht, who introduced the digital ad bill on behalf of Pillen, said she was aware of an effort to remove the tax from Nebraska broadcasters, which she had been advised by Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers would have made the bill unconstitutional.During debate a week ago, Dunbar Sen. Julie Slama introduced an amendment to remove digital ads entirely from LB 388.Slama, a lawyer, argued that the only other state that had tried to tax digital ads, Maryland, has been tied up in court by multiple lawsuits and that it made no sense for Nebraska to pass a similar bill that was constitutionally suspect.<h2>Not a cent will be collected</h2>“I don’t think we’ll collect any dollars from this tax before a (court) injunction is filed,” Slama told fellow lawmakers last week.But her amendment fell short, on a 18-18 vote, seven short of the “yes” votes needed.Later, LB 388 advanced to final-round debate on a 28-14 vote, which, while enough to pass, is five votes short of what would be needed to shut off a filibuster.Albrecht, during floor debate last week, argued that Nebraska’s digital tax was different from Maryland’s and that the attorney general had advised her that it was constitutional — as long as an amendment to exempt Nebraska digital advertisers wasn’t adopted.She said that a tax on digital ads was among a list of proposed tax changes handed out by the Pillen administration and that she unaware it might impact some Nebraska outlets, such as KFAB.The governor was seeking $1 billion in new revenue to lower property taxes, Albrecht said, and the money has to come from somewhere.&nbsp;“Everyone says everything’s going to hurt their business,” she said. “You can’t win.”

Broadcasters mount last-minute blitz to delete tax on ‘digital ads’ from Pillen plan

Dawson County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;

Gothenburg, Neb. - The suspect from the April 8th high speed chase that ended near Gothenburg has passed away from his injuries according to officials.

According to the sheriff's office, on April 8th, at approximately 8:47pm, the Dawson County Sheriff's Office was advised that a Toyota Camry holding a specific Indiana license plate that was possibly traveling westbound on Interstate 80 in Dawson County, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This vehicle was reportedly occupied by Linden M. Long, 22, of Wisconsin, who had an active federal felony arrest warrant for Bank Robbery and was listed as possibly armed and dangerous. Dawson County deputies located the vehicle and conducted a felony traffic stop where the vehicle came to rest westbound Gothenburg Interstate 80 offramp.&nbsp;

The deputies found that the driver, the sole occupant of the vehicle, later identified as being Long, was non-compliant with the verbal commands and refused to exit the vehicle. Negotiations with Long started, but he fled the interchange and went to the 300 block of Platte River Road in Gothenburg where the vehicle stopped at a dead end.&nbsp;

Deputies exited their patrol units when they heard a single gunshot that came from inside the vehicle occupied by Long. The vehicle then aggressively accelerated through a metal panel marking the end of the road and came to a rest after striking a tree. Emergency Medical Services were contacted and placed on standby unit the vehicle could be cleared by law enforcement.&nbsp;

It was then found by law enforcement on scene that Long suffered an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head and the firearm was also discovered inside the vehicle. He was transported to by Gothenburg Fire/Rescue Department to the Gothenburg Memorial Hospital where he was later transferred to CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.&nbsp;

South Central Law Enforcement Services was contacted by the Dawson County Sheriff's Office to investigate further. Long passed away on Saturday, April 13th, while at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.&nbsp;

Dawson County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;Gothenburg, Neb. - The suspect from the April 8th high speed chase that ended near Gothenburg has passed away from his injuries according to officials.According to the sheriff's office, on April 8th, at approximately 8:47pm, the Dawson County Sheriff's Office was advised that a Toyota Camry holding a specific Indiana license plate that was possibly traveling westbound on Interstate 80 in Dawson County, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;This vehicle was reportedly occupied by Linden M. Long, 22, of Wisconsin, who had an active federal felony arrest warrant for Bank Robbery and was listed as possibly armed and dangerous. Dawson County deputies located the vehicle and conducted a felony traffic stop where the vehicle came to rest westbound Gothenburg Interstate 80 offramp.&nbsp;The deputies found that the driver, the sole occupant of the vehicle, later identified as being Long, was non-compliant with the verbal commands and refused to exit the vehicle. Negotiations with Long started, but he fled the interchange and went to the 300 block of Platte River Road in Gothenburg where the vehicle stopped at a dead end.&nbsp;Deputies exited their patrol units when they heard a single gunshot that came from inside the vehicle occupied by Long. The vehicle then aggressively accelerated through a metal panel marking the end of the road and came to a rest after striking a tree. Emergency Medical Services were contacted and placed on standby unit the vehicle could be cleared by law enforcement.&nbsp;It was then found by law enforcement on scene that Long suffered an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head and the firearm was also discovered inside the vehicle. He was transported to by Gothenburg Fire/Rescue Department to the Gothenburg Memorial Hospital where he was later transferred to CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.&nbsp;South Central Law Enforcement Services was contacted by the Dawson County Sheriff's Office to investigate further. Long passed away on Saturday, April 13th, while at CHI Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.&nbsp;

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