<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/lincoln-sculptor-chosen-to-produce-bust-of-malcolm-x-for-nebraska-hall-of-fame/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A “socially engaged” sculptor from Lincoln has been chosen to produce a bust of civil rights leader Malcolm X for the Nebraska Hall of Fame.

Nathan Murray was chosen&nbsp;through a selection process conducted by the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission and the Nebraska Arts Council.

Murray earned his undergraduate fine arts degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s degree from the University of Florida.

His proposal for the bust stood out as “captivating and iconic,” according to Meagan Dion of the Nebraska Arts Council, who was involved in the selection.

“Murray embraced Malcolm X in a recognizable moment,” Dion said, “where viewers will be able to engage with him and be more curious about the impact he made for others in Nebraska and beyond.”

Sara Crook, who chairs the Hall of Fame Commission, said that Murray’s enthusiasm and talent for the project impressed the selection committee.

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/09/12/malcolm-x-edges-nu-educator-louise-pound-for-induction-into-the-nebraska-hall-of-fame/">A year ago, the state Hall of Fame Commission</a>&nbsp;voted Malcolm X as the next inductee in the Hall, which sits inside the Nebraska State Capitol.

He will become the first African-American in the Nebraska Hall of Fame when he is inducted next year.

Malcolm X, also known as Malcolm Little and El Hajj Malik El Shabazz, was born in Omaha in 1925, but his family, harassed and threatened by white supremacists, moved away while he was still an infant.

Supporters of his induction cited his life story of transformation, from a street hustler and a prison inmate to a leader in the Nation of Islam and civil rights movement who advocated for empowerment of Blacks and racial justice.

A fiery speaker, he was assassinated in 1965 after an appearance in New York City.

Malcolm X was the subject of a best-selling autobiography written by Alex Haley and a Hollywood film starring Denzel Washington.

A press release from History Nebraska described Murray as a “socially engaged artist and educator” whose work “explores issues of race, ethnicity, and intersectionality, particularly how these aspects of identity are expressed in people and their stories.”

Murray said he was honored to be selected to create the bronze of Malcolm X.

“Malcolm X’s advocacy for human rights and his message of empowerment made him a pivotal figure not only for Nebraska but also on the world stage, inspiring generations to strive for equality and justice,” Murray said.

He teaches at Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln and Nebraska Wesleyan University, and he recently taught a two-week workshop titled, “Clay Identity: Sculpting Busts” at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass, Colorado.

Currently, Murray is working on an exhibition entitled, “BIPOC of Nebraska,”&nbsp; which features ceramic busts of notable Nebraskans of color.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697049389591.jpeg" alt="Lincoln sculptor Nathan Murray and his proposal for the bust of Malcolm X to be displayed in the Nebraska Hall of Fame. (Courtesy of History Nebraska)" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln sculptor Nathan Murray and his proposal for the bust of Malcolm X to be displayed in the Nebraska Hall of Fame. (Courtesy of History Nebraska)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/lincoln-sculptor-chosen-to-produce-bust-of-malcolm-x-for-nebraska-hall-of-fame/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A “socially engaged” sculptor from Lincoln has been chosen to produce a bust of civil rights leader Malcolm X for the Nebraska Hall of Fame.Nathan Murray was chosen&nbsp;through a selection process conducted by the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission and the Nebraska Arts Council.Murray earned his undergraduate fine arts degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s degree from the University of Florida.<h2>‘Captivating’ proposal</h2>His proposal for the bust stood out as “captivating and iconic,” according to Meagan Dion of the Nebraska Arts Council, who was involved in the selection.“Murray embraced Malcolm X in a recognizable moment,” Dion said, “where viewers will be able to engage with him and be more curious about the impact he made for others in Nebraska and beyond.”Sara Crook, who chairs the Hall of Fame Commission, said that Murray’s enthusiasm and talent for the project impressed the selection committee.<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/09/12/malcolm-x-edges-nu-educator-louise-pound-for-induction-into-the-nebraska-hall-of-fame/">A year ago, the state Hall of Fame Commission</a>&nbsp;voted Malcolm X as the next inductee in the Hall, which sits inside the Nebraska State Capitol.<h2>First African-American in the Hall</h2>He will become the first African-American in the Nebraska Hall of Fame when he is inducted next year.Malcolm X, also known as Malcolm Little and El Hajj Malik El Shabazz, was born in Omaha in 1925, but his family, harassed and threatened by white supremacists, moved away while he was still an infant.Supporters of his induction cited his life story of transformation, from a street hustler and a prison inmate to a leader in the Nation of Islam and civil rights movement who advocated for empowerment of Blacks and racial justice.A fiery speaker, he was assassinated in 1965 after an appearance in New York City.Malcolm X was the subject of a best-selling autobiography written by Alex Haley and a Hollywood film starring Denzel Washington.A press release from History Nebraska described Murray as a “socially engaged artist and educator” whose work “explores issues of race, ethnicity, and intersectionality, particularly how these aspects of identity are expressed in people and their stories.”<h2>‘A pivotal figure’</h2>Murray said he was honored to be selected to create the bronze of Malcolm X.“Malcolm X’s advocacy for human rights and his message of empowerment made him a pivotal figure not only for Nebraska but also on the world stage, inspiring generations to strive for equality and justice,” Murray said.He teaches at Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln and Nebraska Wesleyan University, and he recently taught a two-week workshop titled, “Clay Identity: Sculpting Busts” at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass, Colorado.Currently, Murray is working on an exhibition entitled, “BIPOC of Nebraska,”&nbsp; which features ceramic busts of notable Nebraskans of color.

Lincoln sculptor chosen to produce bust of Malcolm X for Nebraska Hall of Fame

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Navigator CO2 Ventures announced Tuesday that it is putting on hold one of the two biggest proposed carbon dioxide pipeline projects in the Midwest so it can reassess the project.

The company withdrew its application for a key permit in Illinois and said it it was putting all its permit applications on hold. The decision comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-carbon-dioxide-pipeline-665a20269d43d4aff5944969f869bb03">South Dakota regulators</a>&nbsp;last month denied a permit.

The proposed 1,300-mile (2,092-kilometer) project would carry planet-warming carbon dioxide emissions from more than 20 industrial plants across South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois. The Illinois permit is crucial because that’s where the company planned to store the carbon dioxide underground.

“As is consistent with our recent filings in neighboring jurisdictions, Navigator will be taking time to reassess the route and application,” the company said in a statement.

Navigator said it is not abandoning the project. It plans to reapply for permits where appropriate after completing its evaluation.

Opponents cheered the news that the project is being put on hold, and promised to keep fighting when the company reapplies. Opponents had organized landowners who were concerned about the project.

“When you organize the families most at-risk of eminent domain, you can stop a pipeline," said Jane Kleeb with the Nebraska-based Bold Alliance that also fought against the ill-fated Keystone XL oil pipeline. “This is a core lesson we have learned over the years, as pipeline corporations try to bully hard-working Americans into giving up their land for corporate greed.”

Proposed pipelines in the region would use&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-technology-science-business-iceland-39fda46606cdba85ad10fac44d08dce6">carbon capture technology</a>&nbsp;that supporters believe would combat climate change. Opponents question its effectiveness at scale and the need for potentially huge investments over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/germany-renewable-energy-solar-wind-hydrogen-7c1830eece1708010ed039c583ddacfb">cheaper renewable energy sources.</a>&nbsp;New&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/carbon-climate-biden-co2-pollution-environment-ccs-0678057d3bd003bcfd9a7ba0d61a477d">federal tax incentives and billions of dollars</a>&nbsp;from Congress toward carbon capture efforts have made such projects lucrative.

Summit Carbon Solutions is behind the biggest proposed carbon dioxide pipeline in the area. It is pressing forward with its plans despite regulatory setbacks in the Dakotas. North Dakota agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-dakota-midwest-co2-pipeline-summit-carbon-dioxide-13c4c1524f96e8fbf52d0dcd6ab4abd0">reconsider its denial</a>&nbsp;of a permit for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/summit-pipeline-co2-north-dakota-iowa-68bd3c9d4cd142a05666594a936f8db0">$5.5 billion, 2,000-mile (3,220-kilometer) pipeline</a>&nbsp;that would cross five states, and Summit is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-north-dakota-co2-pipeline-summit-827c7418edba5a4ecbd7501be02d84f9">reapplying</a>&nbsp;in South Dakota. A separate hearing on that project in Iowa started in August. And Minnesota regulators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/summit-pipeline-co2-north-dakota-iowa-minnesota-climate-change-415a5250937fa1cc5a114fe12ed287da">plan to conduct a detailed environmental review</a>&nbsp;of the project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697048511583.jpeg" alt="A sign reading "No CO2, no eminent domain" stands along a rural road east of Bismarck, N.D., on Aug. 15, 2023. One of the two biggest proposed carbon dioxide pipeline projects in the Midwest is being put on hold so the company can reevaluate the route. Navigator CO2 Ventures has withdrawn its application for a permit in Illinois. And it said in a statement Tuesday, Oct. 10 that it was putting all its permit applications on hold while it reassesses the project's route through South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois. (AP Photo/Jack Dura, file)" />
 <figcaption>A sign reading "No CO2, no eminent domain" stands along a rural road east of Bismarck, N.D., on Aug. 15, 2023. One of the two biggest proposed carbon dioxide pipeline projects in the Midwest is being put on hold so the company can reevaluate the route. Navigator CO2 Ventures has withdrawn its application for a permit in Illinois. And it said in a statement Tuesday, Oct. 10 that it was putting all its permit applications on hold while it reassesses the project's route through South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois. (AP Photo/Jack Dura, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Navigator CO2 Ventures announced Tuesday that it is putting on hold one of the two biggest proposed carbon dioxide pipeline projects in the Midwest so it can reassess the project.The company withdrew its application for a key permit in Illinois and said it it was putting all its permit applications on hold. The decision comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-carbon-dioxide-pipeline-665a20269d43d4aff5944969f869bb03">South Dakota regulators</a>&nbsp;last month denied a permit.The proposed 1,300-mile (2,092-kilometer) project would carry planet-warming carbon dioxide emissions from more than 20 industrial plants across South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois. The Illinois permit is crucial because that’s where the company planned to store the carbon dioxide underground.“As is consistent with our recent filings in neighboring jurisdictions, Navigator will be taking time to reassess the route and application,” the company said in a statement.Navigator said it is not abandoning the project. It plans to reapply for permits where appropriate after completing its evaluation.Opponents cheered the news that the project is being put on hold, and promised to keep fighting when the company reapplies. Opponents had organized landowners who were concerned about the project.“When you organize the families most at-risk of eminent domain, you can stop a pipeline," said Jane Kleeb with the Nebraska-based Bold Alliance that also fought against the ill-fated Keystone XL oil pipeline. “This is a core lesson we have learned over the years, as pipeline corporations try to bully hard-working Americans into giving up their land for corporate greed.”Proposed pipelines in the region would use&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-technology-science-business-iceland-39fda46606cdba85ad10fac44d08dce6">carbon capture technology</a>&nbsp;that supporters believe would combat climate change. Opponents question its effectiveness at scale and the need for potentially huge investments over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/germany-renewable-energy-solar-wind-hydrogen-7c1830eece1708010ed039c583ddacfb">cheaper renewable energy sources.</a>&nbsp;New&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/carbon-climate-biden-co2-pollution-environment-ccs-0678057d3bd003bcfd9a7ba0d61a477d">federal tax incentives and billions of dollars</a>&nbsp;from Congress toward carbon capture efforts have made such projects lucrative.Summit Carbon Solutions is behind the biggest proposed carbon dioxide pipeline in the area. It is pressing forward with its plans despite regulatory setbacks in the Dakotas. North Dakota agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-dakota-midwest-co2-pipeline-summit-carbon-dioxide-13c4c1524f96e8fbf52d0dcd6ab4abd0">reconsider its denial</a>&nbsp;of a permit for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/summit-pipeline-co2-north-dakota-iowa-68bd3c9d4cd142a05666594a936f8db0">$5.5 billion, 2,000-mile (3,220-kilometer) pipeline</a>&nbsp;that would cross five states, and Summit is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-north-dakota-co2-pipeline-summit-827c7418edba5a4ecbd7501be02d84f9">reapplying</a>&nbsp;in South Dakota. A separate hearing on that project in Iowa started in August. And Minnesota regulators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/summit-pipeline-co2-north-dakota-iowa-minnesota-climate-change-415a5250937fa1cc5a114fe12ed287da">plan to conduct a detailed environmental review</a>&nbsp;of the project.

Major Navigator CO2 pipeline project is on hold while the company reevaluates the route in 5 states

OCTOBER 11, 2023 (KEARNEY, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol hosted troopers and officers from eleven other states for a week of training that will help keep roadways safe across the country.

Last week, NSP Carrier Enforcement Troopers provided a series of training sessions focused on commercial motor vehicle safety, including inspections and post-crash investigations. The training included troopers and officers from Wyoming, Missouri, Iowa, Vermont, Illinois, Wisconsin, Texas, Nevada, New Jersey, Alaska, and South Dakota.

“Sharing knowledge across state lines helps keep roadways safe across the entire country,” said Captain Martin Denton, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “We shape these training sessions around what our troopers encounter in real life. We were proud to share those experiences with troopers and officers from many other states and continue the collaboration that has been ongoing for years.”

The training sessions provided both classroom and hands-on instruction in areas of forensic examination of commercial motor vehicles and completion of post-crash inspections of commercial motor vehicles. NSP received assistance from several local partners to make this training as valuable as possible. Thank you to the Nebraska Trucking Association, Kearney Towing, Dowhy Towing, Coach Masters, Andersen Wrecking, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and others for their partnership.

Cody ThomasOCTOBER 11, 2023 (KEARNEY, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol hosted troopers and officers from eleven other states for a week of training that will help keep roadways safe across the country.Last week, NSP Carrier Enforcement Troopers provided a series of training sessions focused on commercial motor vehicle safety, including inspections and post-crash investigations. The training included troopers and officers from Wyoming, Missouri, Iowa, Vermont, Illinois, Wisconsin, Texas, Nevada, New Jersey, Alaska, and South Dakota.“Sharing knowledge across state lines helps keep roadways safe across the entire country,” said Captain Martin Denton, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “We shape these training sessions around what our troopers encounter in real life. We were proud to share those experiences with troopers and officers from many other states and continue the collaboration that has been ongoing for years.”The training sessions provided both classroom and hands-on instruction in areas of forensic examination of commercial motor vehicles and completion of post-crash inspections of commercial motor vehicles. NSP received assistance from several local partners to make this training as valuable as possible. Thank you to the Nebraska Trucking Association, Kearney Towing, Dowhy Towing, Coach Masters, Andersen Wrecking, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and others for their partnership.

NSP Hosts Officials from 11 States for Commercial Vehicle Training

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/10/public-school-advocates-qualify-referendum-on-opportunity-scholarship-law-for-2024-election/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — As expected, a signature drive to repeal a new and controversial “opportunity scholarships” law has qualified for a public vote on the 2024 general election ballot.

Tuesday afternoon, the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office confirmed that Support Our Schools Nebraska had submitted more than enough valid signatures to force a referendum on Legislative Bill 753, or the Opportunity Scholarships Act.

Public school advocates have condemned the law as a roundabout way to funnel public tax dollars to finance private schools.

The law allows taxpayers to designate up to half of their state income tax payment to an organization that provides scholarships to private and parochial, K-12 schools. The entire program is capped at $25 million in the first year, but could eventually grow to $100 million a year.

Opponents to LB 753 called it a tax scheme that will suck away funds from state priorities, including education, social services and roads. Advocates, meanwhile, maintain that the law will give low-income families an alternative for children who may be struggling in a public school.

Nebraska was one of only two states in the nation that didn’t provide some kind of “school choice” option.

A Support Our Schools leader said Tuesday the “overwhelming success” of the signature drive is a clear sign that Nebraskans want a vote on the issue.

“This was a decisive victory and the first step to ensure public funds are used to support public schools, not private schools,” said Jenni Benson, who is also president of the Nebraska State Education Association.

“Nebraskans cannot afford to pay for two school systems,” Benson said in a press release.

“Now we redouble our efforts to inform Nebraskans of the harm LB 753 will cause if it is not repealed,” she said.

A spokeswoman with Keep Kids First said the organization remains committed to “help&nbsp;students struggling in a traditional education setting.”&nbsp;

“Our focus has always been on giving Nebraska families the opportunity to choose the right education for their children to grow and reach their potential,” said spokeswoman Lauren Garcia Gage.

The signature gathering campaign by Support Our Schools sparked a bitter, give-and-take between it and Keep Kids First.

Charges of improper behavior by petition circulators and “blockers” have been traded, as has&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/03/governor-doubles-down-on-support-for-school-choice-with-100000-donation/">criticism of where each side is getting its funding.</a>

Support Our Schools has been primarily funded by the state and national teachers unions, while Keep Kids First has the backing of Gov. Jim Pillen and Betsy DeVos, a former U.S. Education secretary in the Trump administration and a millionaire businesswoman.

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/27/betsy-devos-two-others-spent-big-on-nebraska-legislative-races/">DeVos spent heavily</a>&nbsp;to help elect Nebraska state legislators in 2022 who support school choice. That helped pass the Opportunity Scholarships Act after years of failure of school choice bills. Conversely, the state teachers’ union has been among the top contributors to candidates who support public education.

A month ago, Support Our Schools turned in petitions containing an estimated 117,000 signatures, nearly double the 61,308 valid signatures required to place the referendum on the ballot.

By law, the Secretary of State’s Office is allowed to quit counting when it reaches 110% of that requirement.

A press release stated that county election officials verified 91,861 valid signatures and that signatures of more than 5% of registered voters were collected in 64 of the state’s 93 counties. The petition drive was required to meet that requirement in 38 counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697036886421.jpeg" alt="Teachers and other backers of Support Our Schools wheel out boxes of voter-signed petitions seeking to get a repeal of the Opportunity Scholarships Act on the 2024 ballot. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Teachers and other backers of Support Our Schools wheel out boxes of voter-signed petitions seeking to get a repeal of the Opportunity Scholarships Act on the 2024 ballot. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/10/public-school-advocates-qualify-referendum-on-opportunity-scholarship-law-for-2024-election/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — As expected, a signature drive to repeal a new and controversial “opportunity scholarships” law has qualified for a public vote on the 2024 general election ballot.Tuesday afternoon, the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office confirmed that Support Our Schools Nebraska had submitted more than enough valid signatures to force a referendum on Legislative Bill 753, or the Opportunity Scholarships Act.Public school advocates have condemned the law as a roundabout way to funnel public tax dollars to finance private schools.The law allows taxpayers to designate up to half of their state income tax payment to an organization that provides scholarships to private and parochial, K-12 schools. The entire program is capped at $25 million in the first year, but could eventually grow to $100 million a year.<h2>Nebraskans want a vote</h2>Opponents to LB 753 called it a tax scheme that will suck away funds from state priorities, including education, social services and roads. Advocates, meanwhile, maintain that the law will give low-income families an alternative for children who may be struggling in a public school.Nebraska was one of only two states in the nation that didn’t provide some kind of “school choice” option.A Support Our Schools leader said Tuesday the “overwhelming success” of the signature drive is a clear sign that Nebraskans want a vote on the issue.“This was a decisive victory and the first step to ensure public funds are used to support public schools, not private schools,” said Jenni Benson, who is also president of the Nebraska State Education Association.“Nebraskans cannot afford to pay for two school systems,” Benson said in a press release.“Now we redouble our efforts to inform Nebraskans of the harm LB 753 will cause if it is not repealed,” she said.A spokeswoman with Keep Kids First said the organization remains committed to “help&nbsp;students struggling in a traditional education setting.”&nbsp;“Our focus has always been on giving Nebraska families the opportunity to choose the right education for their children to grow and reach their potential,” said spokeswoman Lauren Garcia Gage.The signature gathering campaign by Support Our Schools sparked a bitter, give-and-take between it and Keep Kids First.Charges of improper behavior by petition circulators and “blockers” have been traded, as has&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/03/governor-doubles-down-on-support-for-school-choice-with-100000-donation/">criticism of where each side is getting its funding.</a>Support Our Schools has been primarily funded by the state and national teachers unions, while Keep Kids First has the backing of Gov. Jim Pillen and Betsy DeVos, a former U.S. Education secretary in the Trump administration and a millionaire businesswoman.<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/27/betsy-devos-two-others-spent-big-on-nebraska-legislative-races/">DeVos spent heavily</a>&nbsp;to help elect Nebraska state legislators in 2022 who support school choice. That helped pass the Opportunity Scholarships Act after years of failure of school choice bills. Conversely, the state teachers’ union has been among the top contributors to candidates who support public education.A month ago, Support Our Schools turned in petitions containing an estimated 117,000 signatures, nearly double the 61,308 valid signatures required to place the referendum on the ballot.By law, the Secretary of State’s Office is allowed to quit counting when it reaches 110% of that requirement.A press release stated that county election officials verified 91,861 valid signatures and that signatures of more than 5% of registered voters were collected in 64 of the state’s 93 counties. The petition drive was required to meet that requirement in 38 counties.

Public school advocates qualify referendum on ‘opportunity scholarship’ law for 2024 election

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans nominated Rep. Steve Scalise on Wednesday to be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Speaker%20Kevin,its%20Republican%20leadership%20into%20chaos.">next House speaker</a>&nbsp;but now must try to unite their deeply divided majority to elect the conservative in a floor vote after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-ousted-mccarthy-3fccfca11fe61c36fe399880f2679f12">ousting Rep. Kevin McCarthy</a>&nbsp;from the job.

In private balloting at the Capitol, House Republicans narrowly pushed aside Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, the Judiciary Committee chairman, in favor of Scalise, the current majority leader, lawmakers said. The Louisiana congressman, who is battling blood cancer, is seen as a hero to some after surviving a mass shooting on lawmakers at a congressional baseball game practice in 2017.

“We have a lot of work to do,” Scalise said afterward.

A floor vote of the whole House could come as soon as Wednesday afternoon.

Republicans have been stalemated after McCarthy’s historic removal last week and it's unclear whether Jordan, the hardliner backed by the party's presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, will throw his support to Scalise in what is certain to be a close vote of the full House. Democrats are set to oppose the Republican nominee.

“I don’t know how the hell you get to 218," said Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, referring to the majority vote typically needed in the 435-member House to become speaker. “It could be a long week.”

It's an extraordinary moment of political chaos that has brought the House to a standstill at a time of uncertainty at home and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">crisis abroad</a>, just 10 months after Republicans swept to power. Aspiring to operate as a team and run government more like a business, the GOP majority has drifted far from that goal with the unprecedented ouster of a speaker.

Americans are watching. One-quarter of Republicans say they approve of the decision by a small group of Republicans to remove McCarthy as speaker. Three in 10 Republicans believe it was a mistake,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-speaker-kevin-mccarthy-removal-motion-vacate-72ec3c28d2987e90b3fe032a6ff97d87">according to a poll</a>&nbsp;from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kevin-mccarthy-republican-lawmakers-house-opponents-33c7d984964916f29d548b5b1dfe508b">hard-right coalition of lawmakers</a>&nbsp;that ousted McCarthy, R-Calif., has shown what an oversize role a few lawmakers can have in choosing his successor.

“I am not thrilled with either choice right now,” said Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., who voted to oust McCarthy.

It's unclear whether Scalise can amass the votes that would be needed from almost all Republicans to overcome the Democratic opposition. Usually, the majority needed would be 218 votes, but there are currently two vacant seats, dropping the threshold to 217.

Many Republicans want to prevent the spectacle of a messy House floor fight like the grueling January brawl when McCarthy became speaker.

“People are not comfortable going to the floor with a simple majority and then having C-SPAN and the rest of the world watch as we have this fight,” said Rep. Kat Cammack, R-Fla. “We want to have this family fight behind closed doors."

Behind closed doors, the Republicans voted to set aside a proposed a rules change that would have tried to ensure a majority vote before the nominee was presented for a full floor vote.

Without the rules change, the Republican lawmakers would be expected to agree to a majority-wins process.

Neither Scalise nor Jordan was seen as the heir apparent to McCarthy, who was removed in a push by the far-right flank after the speaker led Congress to approve legislation that averted a government shutdown.

All three men have been here before. In 2018, they were similarly vying for leadership, with McCarthy and Scalise extending the rivalry to this day.

Scalise was in line for the job, but faced a challenge from Jordan, a founding member of the Freedom Caucus, who was viewed as a more hard-edged option, after McCarthy's ouster.

Jordan is known for his close&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-speaker-mccarthy-capitol-hill-432f89f6826b2b4f51990ae4b4d293fb">alliance with Trump</a>, particularly when the then-president was working to overturn the results of the 2020 election, leading to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Trump backed Jordan's bid for the gavel.

Several lawmakers, including Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who engineered McCarthy's ouster, said they would be willing to support either Scalise or Jordan.

“Long live Speaker Scalise,” Gaetz said after the vote.

For now, Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., who was named as the speaker pro-tempore, is effectively in charge. He has shown little interest in expanding his power beyond the role he was assigned — an interim leader tasked with ensuring the election of the next speaker.

The role was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to ensure the continuity of government. McHenry's name was at the top of a list submitted by McCarthy when he became speaker in January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697046038480.png" alt="House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisana., speaks to reporters as he arrives for a meeting of House Republicans to vote on candidates for Speaker of the House on Capitol Hill, Wednesday,-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisana., speaks to reporters as he arrives for a meeting of House Republicans to vote on candidates for Speaker of the House on Capitol Hill, Wednesday,-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans nominated Rep. Steve Scalise on Wednesday to be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Speaker%20Kevin,its%20Republican%20leadership%20into%20chaos.">next House speaker</a>&nbsp;but now must try to unite their deeply divided majority to elect the conservative in a floor vote after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-ousted-mccarthy-3fccfca11fe61c36fe399880f2679f12">ousting Rep. Kevin McCarthy</a>&nbsp;from the job.In private balloting at the Capitol, House Republicans narrowly pushed aside Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, the Judiciary Committee chairman, in favor of Scalise, the current majority leader, lawmakers said. The Louisiana congressman, who is battling blood cancer, is seen as a hero to some after surviving a mass shooting on lawmakers at a congressional baseball game practice in 2017.“We have a lot of work to do,” Scalise said afterward.A floor vote of the whole House could come as soon as Wednesday afternoon.Republicans have been stalemated after McCarthy’s historic removal last week and it's unclear whether Jordan, the hardliner backed by the party's presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, will throw his support to Scalise in what is certain to be a close vote of the full House. Democrats are set to oppose the Republican nominee.“I don’t know how the hell you get to 218," said Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, referring to the majority vote typically needed in the 435-member House to become speaker. “It could be a long week.”It's an extraordinary moment of political chaos that has brought the House to a standstill at a time of uncertainty at home and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">crisis abroad</a>, just 10 months after Republicans swept to power. Aspiring to operate as a team and run government more like a business, the GOP majority has drifted far from that goal with the unprecedented ouster of a speaker.Americans are watching. One-quarter of Republicans say they approve of the decision by a small group of Republicans to remove McCarthy as speaker. Three in 10 Republicans believe it was a mistake,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-speaker-kevin-mccarthy-removal-motion-vacate-72ec3c28d2987e90b3fe032a6ff97d87">according to a poll</a>&nbsp;from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kevin-mccarthy-republican-lawmakers-house-opponents-33c7d984964916f29d548b5b1dfe508b">hard-right coalition of lawmakers</a>&nbsp;that ousted McCarthy, R-Calif., has shown what an oversize role a few lawmakers can have in choosing his successor.“I am not thrilled with either choice right now,” said Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., who voted to oust McCarthy.It's unclear whether Scalise can amass the votes that would be needed from almost all Republicans to overcome the Democratic opposition. Usually, the majority needed would be 218 votes, but there are currently two vacant seats, dropping the threshold to 217.Many Republicans want to prevent the spectacle of a messy House floor fight like the grueling January brawl when McCarthy became speaker.“People are not comfortable going to the floor with a simple majority and then having C-SPAN and the rest of the world watch as we have this fight,” said Rep. Kat Cammack, R-Fla. “We want to have this family fight behind closed doors."Behind closed doors, the Republicans voted to set aside a proposed a rules change that would have tried to ensure a majority vote before the nominee was presented for a full floor vote.Without the rules change, the Republican lawmakers would be expected to agree to a majority-wins process.Neither Scalise nor Jordan was seen as the heir apparent to McCarthy, who was removed in a push by the far-right flank after the speaker led Congress to approve legislation that averted a government shutdown.All three men have been here before. In 2018, they were similarly vying for leadership, with McCarthy and Scalise extending the rivalry to this day.Scalise was in line for the job, but faced a challenge from Jordan, a founding member of the Freedom Caucus, who was viewed as a more hard-edged option, after McCarthy's ouster.Jordan is known for his close&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-speaker-mccarthy-capitol-hill-432f89f6826b2b4f51990ae4b4d293fb">alliance with Trump</a>, particularly when the then-president was working to overturn the results of the 2020 election, leading to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Trump backed Jordan's bid for the gavel.Several lawmakers, including Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who engineered McCarthy's ouster, said they would be willing to support either Scalise or Jordan.“Long live Speaker Scalise,” Gaetz said after the vote.For now, Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., who was named as the speaker pro-tempore, is effectively in charge. He has shown little interest in expanding his power beyond the role he was assigned — an interim leader tasked with ensuring the election of the next speaker.The role was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to ensure the continuity of government. McHenry's name was at the top of a list submitted by McCarthy when he became speaker in January.

Republicans nominate Steve Scalise to be House speaker

By&nbsp;Jim Garamone, U.S. Department of Defense

We stand with Israel," the president said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/10/10/remarks-by-president-biden-on-the-terrorist-attacks-in-israel-2/">during an announcement at the White House</a>.&nbsp;

The Hamas attack has been exceptionally brutal with hundreds of Israeli civilians killed and thousands wounded in the surprise attack out of Gaza that began Saturday.

(click below to watch the President's comments)

"There's still so many families desperately waiting to hear the fate of their loved ones, not knowing if they are alive or dead or hostages," the president said.

Hamas gunmen also kidnapped civilians and now leaders of the group have threatened to execute them.&nbsp; The State Department on Wednesday said the number of U.S. citizens confirmed to have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war has risen to 22. That’s an increase from the 14 who’d been confirmed dead on Tuesday.

"The brutality of Hamas, its bloodthirstiness, brings to mind the worst rampages of ISIS," Biden said. "This is terrorism."&nbsp;

"We will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack," he continued. &nbsp;

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today and Biden assured him that the U.S. response to the events will be swift, decisive and overwhelming.

"My team has been in near constant communication with our Israeli partners and partners all across the region and the world from the moment this crisis began," the president said. "We're surging additional military assistance, including ammunition, and interceptors to replenish Iron Dome. We are going to make sure that Israel does not run out of these critical assets to defend its cities and its citizens."

Biden said that he will ask Congress "to take urgent action to fund the national security requirements of our critical partners. This is not about party or politics; this is about the security of our world, security of the United States of America."&nbsp;

The United States has also enhanced its military force posture in the region to strengthen deterrence. DOD has moved the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group to the eastern Mediterranean and bolstered fighter aircraft presence in the region.

These moves are not to deter Hamas, but any country or group that may think of taking advantage of the instability and confusion to pursue their own ends. "To any country, any organization, anyone thinking of taking advantage of the situation, I have one word: Don't," Biden said. "Our hearts may be broken but our resolve is clear."

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said there are U.S. citizens among the hostages Hamas has taken. "We are working with the Israeli government and with our regional partners on every aspect of the hostage crisis, including sharing intelligence and deploying experts from across the U.S. government to advise the Israeli government and coordinate with them on hostage recovery efforts," he said during a White House news conference. "As the President … said, there is no higher priority than the safety and well-being of American citizens being held hostage overseas."&nbsp;

Sullivan said military supplies are already flowing into Israel with interceptors for the Iron Dome missile defense shield leading the way. "We will be flowing in additional Iron Dome interceptors so that [the Israelis] have the capabilities they need to sustain their Iron Dome defense systems," he said. "We're also looking at other ways that we can help augment their air defense capabilities."&nbsp;

Sullivan said that Iran "is complicit in this attack, in a broad sense," meaning Iran has long funded and trained and supplied the terror group.&nbsp;

Iranian leaders "have provided capabilities, they have provided support, and they have had engagement in contact with Hamas over years and years," he said. "All of that has played a role in contributing to what we have seen now. As to the question of whether Iran knew about this attack in advance, or helped plan or direct this attack? We do not, as of the moment … have confirmation."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697042067511.png" alt="President Joe Biden speaks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone at the White House, Oct. 10, 2023. -White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden speaks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone at the White House, Oct. 10, 2023. -White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Jim Garamone, U.S. Department of DefenseWe stand with Israel," the president said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/10/10/remarks-by-president-biden-on-the-terrorist-attacks-in-israel-2/">during an announcement at the White House</a>.&nbsp;The Hamas attack has been exceptionally brutal with hundreds of Israeli civilians killed and thousands wounded in the surprise attack out of Gaza that began Saturday.(click below to watch the President's comments)<div>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7v40bJGqfEo?si=wCspaDDhv7t2n9B0&amp;start=5840" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>"There's still so many families desperately waiting to hear the fate of their loved ones, not knowing if they are alive or dead or hostages," the president said.Hamas gunmen also kidnapped civilians and now leaders of the group have threatened to execute them.&nbsp; The State Department on Wednesday said the number of U.S. citizens confirmed to have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war has risen to 22. That’s an increase from the 14 who’d been confirmed dead on Tuesday."The brutality of Hamas, its bloodthirstiness, brings to mind the worst rampages of ISIS," Biden said. "This is terrorism."&nbsp;"We will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack," he continued. &nbsp;Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today and Biden assured him that the U.S. response to the events will be swift, decisive and overwhelming."My team has been in near constant communication with our Israeli partners and partners all across the region and the world from the moment this crisis began," the president said. "We're surging additional military assistance, including ammunition, and interceptors to replenish Iron Dome. We are going to make sure that Israel does not run out of these critical assets to defend its cities and its citizens."Biden said that he will ask Congress "to take urgent action to fund the national security requirements of our critical partners. This is not about party or politics; this is about the security of our world, security of the United States of America."&nbsp;The United States has also enhanced its military force posture in the region to strengthen deterrence. DOD has moved the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group to the eastern Mediterranean and bolstered fighter aircraft presence in the region.These moves are not to deter Hamas, but any country or group that may think of taking advantage of the instability and confusion to pursue their own ends. "To any country, any organization, anyone thinking of taking advantage of the situation, I have one word: Don't," Biden said. "Our hearts may be broken but our resolve is clear."National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said there are U.S. citizens among the hostages Hamas has taken. "We are working with the Israeli government and with our regional partners on every aspect of the hostage crisis, including sharing intelligence and deploying experts from across the U.S. government to advise the Israeli government and coordinate with them on hostage recovery efforts," he said during a White House news conference. "As the President … said, there is no higher priority than the safety and well-being of American citizens being held hostage overseas."&nbsp;Sullivan said military supplies are already flowing into Israel with interceptors for the Iron Dome missile defense shield leading the way. "We will be flowing in additional Iron Dome interceptors so that [the Israelis] have the capabilities they need to sustain their Iron Dome defense systems," he said. "We're also looking at other ways that we can help augment their air defense capabilities."&nbsp;Sullivan said that Iran "is complicit in this attack, in a broad sense," meaning Iran has long funded and trained and supplied the terror group.&nbsp;Iranian leaders "have provided capabilities, they have provided support, and they have had engagement in contact with Hamas over years and years," he said. "All of that has played a role in contributing to what we have seen now. As to the question of whether Iran knew about this attack in advance, or helped plan or direct this attack? We do not, as of the moment … have confirmation."

🎥 Number of US citizens killed in Israel continues to climb

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Secretary of State’s office announced today that county officials have finished verifying thousands of signatures collected this summer to place LB 753 before Nebraska voters on the November 2024 ballot. The Secretary of State’s certification means election officials have confirmed petition circulators met all constitutional requirements. In August, public school supporters submitted 117,145 signatures - nearly twice the required number - from 5% of registered voters in more than 60 counties, far surpassing the 38-county requirement.&nbsp;

“The overwhelming success of this petition sends a clear message to the Governor and state lawmakers: Nebraskans want to vote on the issue of diverting public tax dollars to pay for private schools,” said Jenni Benson, a sponsor of&nbsp;<a href="https://supportourschoolsnebraska.org/" target="_blank">Support Our Schools Nebraska</a>&nbsp;and president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nsea.org/" target="_blank">Nebraska State Education Association</a>. “This was a decisive victory and the first step to ensure public funds are used to support public schools, not private schools. Nebraskans cannot afford to pay for two school systems. Now we redouble our efforts to inform Nebraskans of the harm LB 753 will cause if it is not repealed.”

The controversial bill was signed into law earlier this year after numerous failed attempts and despite strong opposition from a diverse coalition of parents, teachers, faith leaders, and education policy experts. Polling consistently shows most Nebraskans oppose measures that divert public dollars to private schools, with 55% of likely voters in favor of repealing LB 753. Nebraska is currently the only state with a school privatization referendum on the ballot in 2024.

“Time and again, voters across the country have rejected voucher schemes, which have proven to be expensive, unaccountable, and ineffective. Next November, the nation’s eyes will be on us, but Nebraskans know better. We saw the devastating consequences of privatization on our child welfare system, and we won’t let that happen to our public schools, which are some of the best in the nation and the heart of our communities,” said Connie Duncan, board president of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.standforschools.org/" target="_blank">Stand For Schools</a>, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing public education in Nebraska.

The national attention will also mean continued interference in Nebraska’s elections by out-of-state special interest groups like those affiliated with Betsy DeVos, a Michigan billionaire, who is the primary financial backer of LB 753 and who has been pressuring Nebraska policymakers to pass school vouchers for years. According to campaign filings with the&nbsp;<a href="https://nadc.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission</a>, DeVos-funded groups still have millions of out-of-state dollars to spend during the 2024 election cycle after spending $710,000 on legislative races in 2022 and over $1 million this summer in an unsuccessful effort to thwart the Support Our Schools Nebraska petition and prevent Nebraskans from voting on LB 753.&nbsp;

Brad Christian-Sallis, Director of Power Building with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskatable.org/" target="_blank">Nebraska Civic Engagement Table</a>, said, "Despite the attempts of some politicians and wealthy special interests to deny everyday Nebraskans a voice, the people have spoken. Nebraskans have clearly said, 'We want to protect and support our public schools and the children they serve.' That’s because we understand our communities thrive when we invest in public education, and not by giving away resources to those with no accountability to the public. By repealing LB753 we can stop essential resources from being taken away from our communities, our public schools, and our children."

Under LB753, taxpayers can divert up to half of what they owe in state taxes to support private schools. Individuals and corporations can annually divert up to $100,000, while estates and trusts can divert $1 million. Statewide, the dollar-for-dollar tax credits could grow to $100 million within 10 years, reducing state revenues available to fund public education and other priorities.

“We know Nebraska voters care about their tax dollars, and the next 13 months are a great opportunity for Nebraskans to learn about the tax implications of LB 753,” said Dr. Rebecca Firestone, Executive Director of&nbsp;OpenSky Policy Institute. “With LB 753 on the ballot in November 2024, we can have a public discussion about how we pay for our schools and whether tax dollars are going to the priorities that all of us care about as voters, or whether we want Nebraska’s policymakers to keep directing state dollars to opaque tax breaks that are likely to benefit some taxpayers over others.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beyond its fiscal consequences, those working to repeal LB 753 have serious concerns about its impact on students, families, and teachers. The bill lacks necessary transparency and accountability requirements, which are especially important given that private schools are allowed to discriminate in admissions and disciplinary decisions, unlike public schools which are open to all children.&nbsp;

"Public education is not only a public good, it’s a moral one,” said Rev. Michael Williams, president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/omaha.naacp/" target="_blank">Omaha NAACP</a>&nbsp;and community affairs liaison with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bpmc-omaha.org/" target="_blank">Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Omaha</a>. “These so-called scholarship programs won't help the kids in my neighborhood because it's not about helping low-income kids. It's about creating another way for wealthy people and corporations to avoid paying their fair share in taxes. That's an opportunity the rest of us don't get, and it will hurt the community schools that provide opportunities for every child - no matter their race, religion, language or special need."

The Support Our Schools coalition wishes to thank the thousands of individuals who volunteered their time, donated their hard-earned dollars, signed the petition, and ultimately ensured that all Nebraska voters will get to exercise their right, as our state’s Second House, in November 2024 to&nbsp;repeal LB 753 and keep public dollars for public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Groups that support repealing LB 753 include the League of Women Voters of Nebraska, the ARC of Nebraska, the Nebraska Farmers Union, the Parent-Teacher Association of Nebraska, Holland Children’s Movement, Stand For Schools Nebraska, OpenSky Policy Institute, Omaha NAACP, Nebraska State Education Association, Center for Rural Affairs, Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Omaha.&nbsp;

For more information on the campaign to repeal LB 753, please visit:

Website:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://supportourschoolsnebraska.org/" target="_blank">https://supportourschoolsnebraska.org/</a>

Facebook:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SOSNebraska" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/SOSNebraska</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Twitter: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/SOSNebraska" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/SOSNebraska</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Instagram:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sosnebraska" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/sosnebraska</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687548567793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Karen KilgarinLINCOLN – The Nebraska Secretary of State’s office announced today that county officials have finished verifying thousands of signatures collected this summer to place LB 753 before Nebraska voters on the November 2024 ballot. The Secretary of State’s certification means election officials have confirmed petition circulators met all constitutional requirements. In August, public school supporters submitted 117,145 signatures - nearly twice the required number - from 5% of registered voters in more than 60 counties, far surpassing the 38-county requirement.&nbsp;“The overwhelming success of this petition sends a clear message to the Governor and state lawmakers: Nebraskans want to vote on the issue of diverting public tax dollars to pay for private schools,” said Jenni Benson, a sponsor of&nbsp;<a href="https://supportourschoolsnebraska.org/" target="_blank">Support Our Schools Nebraska</a>&nbsp;and president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nsea.org/" target="_blank">Nebraska State Education Association</a>. “This was a decisive victory and the first step to ensure public funds are used to support public schools, not private schools. Nebraskans cannot afford to pay for two school systems. Now we redouble our efforts to inform Nebraskans of the harm LB 753 will cause if it is not repealed.”The controversial bill was signed into law earlier this year after numerous failed attempts and despite strong opposition from a diverse coalition of parents, teachers, faith leaders, and education policy experts. Polling consistently shows most Nebraskans oppose measures that divert public dollars to private schools, with 55% of likely voters in favor of repealing LB 753. Nebraska is currently the only state with a school privatization referendum on the ballot in 2024.“Time and again, voters across the country have rejected voucher schemes, which have proven to be expensive, unaccountable, and ineffective. Next November, the nation’s eyes will be on us, but Nebraskans know better. We saw the devastating consequences of privatization on our child welfare system, and we won’t let that happen to our public schools, which are some of the best in the nation and the heart of our communities,” said Connie Duncan, board president of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.standforschools.org/" target="_blank">Stand For Schools</a>, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing public education in Nebraska.The national attention will also mean continued interference in Nebraska’s elections by out-of-state special interest groups like those affiliated with Betsy DeVos, a Michigan billionaire, who is the primary financial backer of LB 753 and who has been pressuring Nebraska policymakers to pass school vouchers for years. According to campaign filings with the&nbsp;<a href="https://nadc.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission</a>, DeVos-funded groups still have millions of out-of-state dollars to spend during the 2024 election cycle after spending $710,000 on legislative races in 2022 and over $1 million this summer in an unsuccessful effort to thwart the Support Our Schools Nebraska petition and prevent Nebraskans from voting on LB 753.&nbsp;Brad Christian-Sallis, Director of Power Building with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskatable.org/" target="_blank">Nebraska Civic Engagement Table</a>, said, "Despite the attempts of some politicians and wealthy special interests to deny everyday Nebraskans a voice, the people have spoken. Nebraskans have clearly said, 'We want to protect and support our public schools and the children they serve.' That’s because we understand our communities thrive when we invest in public education, and not by giving away resources to those with no accountability to the public. By repealing LB753 we can stop essential resources from being taken away from our communities, our public schools, and our children."Under LB753, taxpayers can divert up to half of what they owe in state taxes to support private schools. Individuals and corporations can annually divert up to $100,000, while estates and trusts can divert $1 million. Statewide, the dollar-for-dollar tax credits could grow to $100 million within 10 years, reducing state revenues available to fund public education and other priorities.“We know Nebraska voters care about their tax dollars, and the next 13 months are a great opportunity for Nebraskans to learn about the tax implications of LB 753,” said Dr. Rebecca Firestone, Executive Director of&nbsp;OpenSky Policy Institute. “With LB 753 on the ballot in November 2024, we can have a public discussion about how we pay for our schools and whether tax dollars are going to the priorities that all of us care about as voters, or whether we want Nebraska’s policymakers to keep directing state dollars to opaque tax breaks that are likely to benefit some taxpayers over others.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Beyond its fiscal consequences, those working to repeal LB 753 have serious concerns about its impact on students, families, and teachers. The bill lacks necessary transparency and accountability requirements, which are especially important given that private schools are allowed to discriminate in admissions and disciplinary decisions, unlike public schools which are open to all children.&nbsp;"Public education is not only a public good, it’s a moral one,” said Rev. Michael Williams, president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/omaha.naacp/" target="_blank">Omaha NAACP</a>&nbsp;and community affairs liaison with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bpmc-omaha.org/" target="_blank">Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Omaha</a>. “These so-called scholarship programs won't help the kids in my neighborhood because it's not about helping low-income kids. It's about creating another way for wealthy people and corporations to avoid paying their fair share in taxes. That's an opportunity the rest of us don't get, and it will hurt the community schools that provide opportunities for every child - no matter their race, religion, language or special need."The Support Our Schools coalition wishes to thank the thousands of individuals who volunteered their time, donated their hard-earned dollars, signed the petition, and ultimately ensured that all Nebraska voters will get to exercise their right, as our state’s Second House, in November 2024 to&nbsp;repeal LB 753 and keep public dollars for public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;Groups that support repealing LB 753 include the League of Women Voters of Nebraska, the ARC of Nebraska, the Nebraska Farmers Union, the Parent-Teacher Association of Nebraska, Holland Children’s Movement, Stand For Schools Nebraska, OpenSky Policy Institute, Omaha NAACP, Nebraska State Education Association, Center for Rural Affairs, Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Omaha.&nbsp;For more information on the campaign to repeal LB 753, please visit:Website:&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://supportourschoolsnebraska.org/" target="_blank">https://supportourschoolsnebraska.org/</a>Facebook:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SOSNebraska" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/SOSNebraska</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Twitter: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/SOSNebraska" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/SOSNebraska</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Instagram:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sosnebraska" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/sosnebraska</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Secretary of State certifies public school supporters’ petition, Repeal LB 753 heads to 2024 ballot

JERUSALEM-&nbsp;The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in order to deter any&nbsp;actor seeking to escalate the situation or widen the war, according to a media release from U.S. Central Command.

The forces in the area include the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), with its 8 squadrons of attack and support aircraft, and the Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), as well as the Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyers USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS Carney (DDG 64), and USS Roosevelt (DDG 80).

Efforts to increase U.S. posture continue, including the rapid movement into theater of U.S. Air Force F-15s, F-16s and A-10s to augment existing fighter squadrons in the region.

"The arrival of these highly capable forces to the region&nbsp;is a strong signal of deterrence should any actor hostile to Israel consider trying to take advantage of this situation," said General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696972133403.png" alt="USS Gerald R. Ford -photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>USS Gerald R. Ford -photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM-&nbsp;The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in order to deter any&nbsp;actor seeking to escalate the situation or widen the war, according to a media release from U.S. Central Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Watch: An Israeli cargo plane lands, delivering an initial shipment of advanced weaponry from the United States to Israel. <a href="https://t.co/TEv2g9gXyW">pic.twitter.com/TEv2g9gXyW</a>&mdash; Ministry of Defense (@Israel_MOD) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_MOD/status/1711974859520041121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The forces in the area include the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), with its 8 squadrons of attack and support aircraft, and the Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), as well as the Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyers USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS Carney (DDG 64), and USS Roosevelt (DDG 80).Efforts to increase U.S. posture continue, including the rapid movement into theater of U.S. Air Force F-15s, F-16s and A-10s to augment existing fighter squadrons in the region."The arrival of these highly capable forces to the region&nbsp;is a strong signal of deterrence should any actor hostile to Israel consider trying to take advantage of this situation," said General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

US warships, weapons arrive in Mediterranean to support Israel

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Republican majority is stuck, one week after the ouster of Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">Kevin McCarthy</a>, with lawmakers unable to coalesce around a new leader in a stalemate that threatens to keep Congress partly shuttered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-mccarthy-vacancy-scalise-jordan-israel-58c7df019c59e144b2a526c657cf6087">indefinitely</a>.

On Tuesday evening, two leading contenders for the gavel, Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, outlined their visions behind closed doors at a lengthy candidate forum. But they appeared to be splitting the vote among their Republican colleagues.

McCarthy, meanwhile, who had openly positioned himself to reclaim the gavel he just lost, told his colleagues during the private meeting not to nominate him this time. Instead, he read a poem from Mother Teresa and delivered a prayer.

“I don’t know how the hell you get to 218," Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, said afterward, referring to the majority vote typically needed to seize the gavel. “It could be a long week.”

House Republicans took the majority aspiring to operate as a team, and run government more like a business, but have drifted far from that goal. Just 10 months in power, the historic ouster of their House speaker — a first in the U.S. — and the prolonged infighting it has unleashed are undercutting the Republicans' ability to govern at a time of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">crisis at home and abroad</a>.

Now, as House Republicans push ahead toward snap elections Wednesday aimed at finding a new nominee for speaker, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kevin-mccarthy-republican-lawmakers-house-opponents-33c7d984964916f29d548b5b1dfe508b">hard-right coalition of lawmakers</a>&nbsp;that ousted McCarthy has shown what an oversized role a few lawmakers can have in choosing the successor.

“This is a hard conference to lead,” said Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark. “A lot of free agents.”

Both Scalise and Jordan are working furiously to shore up support. Both are easily winning over dozens of supporters and could win the majority of Republicans, about 110 votes.

But it's unclear if either Scalise or Jordan can amass the 217 votes that would be needed in a floor vote to overcome opposition from Democrats. There are currently two vacancies in the 435-seat House.

“We’re in a similar situation that we were back in January,” said Doug Heye, a former Republican leadership aide, adding the political optics of the feud look “terrible” to American voters.

Some have proposed a rules change that Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the interim speaker pro tempore, is considering to ensure a majority vote during closed balloting Wednesday before the nominee is presented for a full floor vote.

McCarthy himself appeared to agree with a consensus approach. “They shouldn’t come out of there until they decide that they have enough votes for whoever they bring to the floor,” McCarthy said.

But short of a rules change, Republican lawmakers would be expected to agree to a majority-wins process — whichever candidate wins the internal private vote would be given the full backing of the Republicans on the House floor.

It’s no guarantee — with trust low among House Republicans and tensions high, those normal protocols could be challenged. Both Scalise and Jordan indicated they would support the eventual nominee, lawmakers said. But many lawmakers remained undecided.

“I am not thrilled with either choice right now,” said Rep. Ken Buck, a Colorado Republican who voted to oust McCarthy.

While both are conservatives from the right flank, neither Scalise nor Jordan is the heir apparent to McCarthy.

Scalise as the second-ranking Republican would be next in line for the gavel and is seen as a hero among colleagues for having survived severe injuries from a mass shooting during a congressional baseball practice in 2017. Now battling blood cancer, the Louisianan is not a clear lock.

“We’re going to go get this done tomorrow, and the House is going to get back to work,” Scalise said as he exited the meeting.

Jordan is a high-profile political firebrand known for his close&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-speaker-mccarthy-capitol-hill-432f89f6826b2b4f51990ae4b4d293fb">alliance with Donald Trump</a>, particularly when the then-president was working to overturn the results of the 2020 election, leading to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Trump has backed Jordan's bid for the gavel.

Scalise and Jordan presented similar views at the forum about cutting spending and securing the southern border with Mexico, top Republican priorities.

Several lawmakers, including Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who engineered McCarthy's ouster said they would be willing to support either Scalise or Jordan.

“I think it’s a competitive race for speaker because we’ve got two greats,” said Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky.

Barr said he was working to help secure votes for Scalise, but would be comfortable with either candidate.

Others though, particularly more centrist conservative Republicans from districts that are narrowly split between the parties, are holding out for another choice.

“Personally, I’m still with McCarthy," said Rep. David Valadao, a Republican who represents a California district not far from the former speaker's district.

“We’ll see how that plays out, but I do know a large percentage of the membership wants to be there with him as well.”

McCarthy headed into the evening forum insisting he was not, at the moment, a candidate for speaker.

But the California Republican gave a nod to his own short track record as speaker — being ousted by the far-right flank after he led Congress to approve a stopgap spending bill to prevent a disruptive federal government shutdown.

“I think it’s important whoever takes that job is willing to risk the job for doing what’s right for the American public,” McCarthy said.

For now, McHenry is effectively in charge. He has shown little interest in expanding his power beyond the role he was assigned — an interim leader tasked with ensuring the election of the next speaker.

While some Republicans, and Democrats, are open to empowering McHenry the longer he holds the temporary position, that seems unlikely as the speaker's fight drags on.

McHenry told reporters it's “my goal” to keep to the schedule to have hold a House speaker election on Wednesday. He quickly gaveled the House in and out of a brief session Tuesday, with no business conducted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696366148194.png" alt="A view of the House during the vote count to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>A view of the House during the vote count to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Republican majority is stuck, one week after the ouster of Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">Kevin McCarthy</a>, with lawmakers unable to coalesce around a new leader in a stalemate that threatens to keep Congress partly shuttered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-mccarthy-vacancy-scalise-jordan-israel-58c7df019c59e144b2a526c657cf6087">indefinitely</a>.On Tuesday evening, two leading contenders for the gavel, Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, outlined their visions behind closed doors at a lengthy candidate forum. But they appeared to be splitting the vote among their Republican colleagues.McCarthy, meanwhile, who had openly positioned himself to reclaim the gavel he just lost, told his colleagues during the private meeting not to nominate him this time. Instead, he read a poem from Mother Teresa and delivered a prayer.“I don’t know how the hell you get to 218," Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, said afterward, referring to the majority vote typically needed to seize the gavel. “It could be a long week.”House Republicans took the majority aspiring to operate as a team, and run government more like a business, but have drifted far from that goal. Just 10 months in power, the historic ouster of their House speaker — a first in the U.S. — and the prolonged infighting it has unleashed are undercutting the Republicans' ability to govern at a time of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">crisis at home and abroad</a>.Now, as House Republicans push ahead toward snap elections Wednesday aimed at finding a new nominee for speaker, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kevin-mccarthy-republican-lawmakers-house-opponents-33c7d984964916f29d548b5b1dfe508b">hard-right coalition of lawmakers</a>&nbsp;that ousted McCarthy has shown what an oversized role a few lawmakers can have in choosing the successor.“This is a hard conference to lead,” said Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark. “A lot of free agents.”Both Scalise and Jordan are working furiously to shore up support. Both are easily winning over dozens of supporters and could win the majority of Republicans, about 110 votes.But it's unclear if either Scalise or Jordan can amass the 217 votes that would be needed in a floor vote to overcome opposition from Democrats. There are currently two vacancies in the 435-seat House.Many Republicans want to prevent the spectacle of a messy House floor fight like the grueling January brawl when McCarthy became speaker.“We’re in a similar situation that we were back in January,” said Doug Heye, a former Republican leadership aide, adding the political optics of the feud look “terrible” to American voters.Some have proposed a rules change that Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the interim speaker pro tempore, is considering to ensure a majority vote during closed balloting Wednesday before the nominee is presented for a full floor vote.McCarthy himself appeared to agree with a consensus approach. “They shouldn’t come out of there until they decide that they have enough votes for whoever they bring to the floor,” McCarthy said.But short of a rules change, Republican lawmakers would be expected to agree to a majority-wins process — whichever candidate wins the internal private vote would be given the full backing of the Republicans on the House floor.It’s no guarantee — with trust low among House Republicans and tensions high, those normal protocols could be challenged. Both Scalise and Jordan indicated they would support the eventual nominee, lawmakers said. But many lawmakers remained undecided.“I am not thrilled with either choice right now,” said Rep. Ken Buck, a Colorado Republican who voted to oust McCarthy.While both are conservatives from the right flank, neither Scalise nor Jordan is the heir apparent to McCarthy.Scalise as the second-ranking Republican would be next in line for the gavel and is seen as a hero among colleagues for having survived severe injuries from a mass shooting during a congressional baseball practice in 2017. Now battling blood cancer, the Louisianan is not a clear lock.“We’re going to go get this done tomorrow, and the House is going to get back to work,” Scalise said as he exited the meeting.Jordan is a high-profile political firebrand known for his close&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-speaker-mccarthy-capitol-hill-432f89f6826b2b4f51990ae4b4d293fb">alliance with Donald Trump</a>, particularly when the then-president was working to overturn the results of the 2020 election, leading to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Trump has backed Jordan's bid for the gavel.Scalise and Jordan presented similar views at the forum about cutting spending and securing the southern border with Mexico, top Republican priorities.Several lawmakers, including Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who engineered McCarthy's ouster said they would be willing to support either Scalise or Jordan.“I think it’s a competitive race for speaker because we’ve got two greats,” said Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky.Barr said he was working to help secure votes for Scalise, but would be comfortable with either candidate.Others though, particularly more centrist conservative Republicans from districts that are narrowly split between the parties, are holding out for another choice.“Personally, I’m still with McCarthy," said Rep. David Valadao, a Republican who represents a California district not far from the former speaker's district.“We’ll see how that plays out, but I do know a large percentage of the membership wants to be there with him as well.”McCarthy headed into the evening forum insisting he was not, at the moment, a candidate for speaker.But the California Republican gave a nod to his own short track record as speaker — being ousted by the far-right flank after he led Congress to approve a stopgap spending bill to prevent a disruptive federal government shutdown.“I think it’s important whoever takes that job is willing to risk the job for doing what’s right for the American public,” McCarthy said.For now, McHenry is effectively in charge. He has shown little interest in expanding his power beyond the role he was assigned — an interim leader tasked with ensuring the election of the next speaker.The role was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to ensure the continuity of government. McHenry's name was at the top of a list submitted by McCarthy when he became speaker in January.While some Republicans, and Democrats, are open to empowering McHenry the longer he holds the temporary position, that seems unlikely as the speaker's fight drags on.McHenry told reporters it's “my goal” to keep to the schedule to have hold a House speaker election on Wednesday. He quickly gaveled the House in and out of a brief session Tuesday, with no business conducted.

A week without a House speaker, GOP no closer to choosing a new leader

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/omaha-woman-who-fraudulently-helped-obtain-nearly-1-million-in-covid-19-recovery-funds-sentenced-to-prison/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — An Omaha woman who helped herself, and 10 others, to fraudulently obtain nearly $1 million in federal COVID-19 recovery funds was sentenced Friday to 42 months in prison.

Tamika R. Cross, 44, of Omaha, was also ordered to pay $552,287 in restitution for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in relation to false applications for loans and grants authorized via the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Cross, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office, lied about payroll, revenue and gross income for her sole proprietor business when, in fact, the business had no employees, no payroll and no revenue.

She also provided guidance for 10 others to create the appearance of viable businesses by providing phony documents and inflating their revenue and employment.

All told, Cross helped submit false applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) grants and Economic Injury Disaster Loans totaling $3.4 million. Her co-defendants obtained approximately $903,238 in loans and advances.

“(Cross) collected PPP loan proceeds based on lies and helped others do likewise,” said Thomas Murdock, a criminal investigator with the Internal Revenue Service.

Other co-defendants that have already been sentenced are:

Charges against Tamika Cross and the others were brought via the “COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force” established by the U.S. Attorneys Office in 2021 to investigate pandemic-related fraud.

Anyone with tips about suspected fraud are asked to call a tips hotline at 866-720-5721 or fill out a complaint form at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form">https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form</a>.

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/omaha-woman-who-fraudulently-helped-obtain-nearly-1-million-in-covid-19-recovery-funds-sentenced-to-prison/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — An Omaha woman who helped herself, and 10 others, to fraudulently obtain nearly $1 million in federal COVID-19 recovery funds was sentenced Friday to 42 months in prison.Tamika R. Cross, 44, of Omaha, was also ordered to pay $552,287 in restitution for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in relation to false applications for loans and grants authorized via the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.Cross, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office, lied about payroll, revenue and gross income for her sole proprietor business when, in fact, the business had no employees, no payroll and no revenue.She also provided guidance for 10 others to create the appearance of viable businesses by providing phony documents and inflating their revenue and employment.<h2>Collected funds ‘based on lies’</h2>All told, Cross helped submit false applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) grants and Economic Injury Disaster Loans totaling $3.4 million. Her co-defendants obtained approximately $903,238 in loans and advances.“(Cross) collected PPP loan proceeds based on lies and helped others do likewise,” said Thomas Murdock, a criminal investigator with the Internal Revenue Service.Other co-defendants that have already been sentenced are:<ul>
 <li>Davida J. Anderson, 53, of Omaha, four years of probation, with the condition of five months’ home detention, a fine of $5,000 and restitution of $3,922.</li><li>Bion A. Flint, 10 months’ imprisonment, three years supervised release and $45,833 in restitution.</li><li>Jeremy D. Sanders, four years of probation and $21,305 in restitution.</li><li>Lakeda R. Sanders, four years of probation and $27,793.79 in restitution.</li><li>Ronnie E. Cross, 21 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release and $78,427 restitution.</li>
 </ul><h2>Hotline for suspected fraud</h2>Charges against Tamika Cross and the others were brought via the “COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force” established by the U.S. Attorneys Office in 2021 to investigate pandemic-related fraud.Anyone with tips about suspected fraud are asked to call a tips hotline at 866-720-5721 or fill out a complaint form at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form">https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form</a>.

Omaha woman who fraudulently helped obtain nearly $1 million in COVID-19 recovery funds sentenced to prison

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/coolest-thing-made-in-nebraska-winner-for-2023-is-an-all-terrain-wheelchair-from-columbus/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — A wheelchair that can move through tough terrain has been crowned “The “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska.”&nbsp;

Made by Rocket Mobility of Columbus, the All-Terrain Tracked Wheelchair garnered the most votes in the final round of the 2023 contest coordinated by the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance and Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The wheelchair was proclaimed the winner Tuesday during the annual Manufacturing Summit in La Vista.

The competition, which aims to draw attention to the state’s manufacturing industry, began with about 60 nominations, which then were whittled to 16 finalists in a bracket-style tournament.

In the end, the champion defeated a drone-based firefighting system by Drone Amplified of Lincoln.

According to its maker, the winning wheelchair can help disabled hunters, veterans, farmers and anyone with mobility issues “to reclaim their off-road independence.” The product has a lower center of gravity that allows it to handle rough terrains.

To be eligible, products had to be made locally. This year’s contenders hailed from Nebraska towns as tiny as Snyder and Endicott to the more populous Capital City of Lincoln.

In all, the five rounds of the competition drew about 50,000 votes, organizers said.&nbsp;

“This contest really puts the creativity, ingenuity, inventions and entrepreneurship of Nebraska manufacturers on display,” said Mike Johnson, chief operating officer of manufacturing for the Nebraska chamber.&nbsp;

His hope is that it helps inspire youths to check out manufacturing careers.

“It’s always so exciting to see what products compete because it shows how diverse Nebraska’s manufacturing industry is and all of the incredible options it offers,” said Nicole Sedlacek, Nebraska Public Power District economic development manager. NPPD was a partner in the contest.

Last year’s winner was a new technology subway car made in the Lincoln plant of Kawasaki Motors. The R211 subway car, which can be found running on tracks in New York City, topped a field that started out at about 50 products.

Manufacturing, according to the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance, accounts for nearly 12% of the state’s total economic output, employing nearly 10% of the state’s population. Average annual compensation exceeds $66,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696965416357.jpeg" alt=" All-terrain tracked wheelchair (Rocket Mobility website)" />
 <figcaption> All-terrain tracked wheelchair (Rocket Mobility website)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/coolest-thing-made-in-nebraska-winner-for-2023-is-an-all-terrain-wheelchair-from-columbus/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — A wheelchair that can move through tough terrain has been crowned “The “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska.”&nbsp;Made by Rocket Mobility of Columbus, the All-Terrain Tracked Wheelchair garnered the most votes in the final round of the 2023 contest coordinated by the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance and Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry.The wheelchair was proclaimed the winner Tuesday during the annual Manufacturing Summit in La Vista.The competition, which aims to draw attention to the state’s manufacturing industry, began with about 60 nominations, which then were whittled to 16 finalists in a bracket-style tournament.In the end, the champion defeated a drone-based firefighting system by Drone Amplified of Lincoln.According to its maker, the winning wheelchair can help disabled hunters, veterans, farmers and anyone with mobility issues “to reclaim their off-road independence.” The product has a lower center of gravity that allows it to handle rough terrains.To be eligible, products had to be made locally. This year’s contenders hailed from Nebraska towns as tiny as Snyder and Endicott to the more populous Capital City of Lincoln.In all, the five rounds of the competition drew about 50,000 votes, organizers said.&nbsp;“This contest really puts the creativity, ingenuity, inventions and entrepreneurship of Nebraska manufacturers on display,” said Mike Johnson, chief operating officer of manufacturing for the Nebraska chamber.&nbsp;His hope is that it helps inspire youths to check out manufacturing careers.“It’s always so exciting to see what products compete because it shows how diverse Nebraska’s manufacturing industry is and all of the incredible options it offers,” said Nicole Sedlacek, Nebraska Public Power District economic development manager. NPPD was a partner in the contest.Last year’s winner was a new technology subway car made in the Lincoln plant of Kawasaki Motors. The R211 subway car, which can be found running on tracks in New York City, topped a field that started out at about 50 products.Manufacturing, according to the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance, accounts for nearly 12% of the state’s total economic output, employing nearly 10% of the state’s population. Average annual compensation exceeds $66,000.

‘Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska’ winner for 2023 is an all-terrain wheelchair from Columbus

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday confirmed that U.S. citizens are among the hostages captured by Hamas in this weekend’s attack on Israel and he condemned the militant group for “sheer evil” for its shocking multipronged attack on Israel launched from the Gaza Strip that has killed hundreds of civilians, including at least 14 American citizens.

(Click below to watch a replay of the President's comments)

Biden and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Vice President Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;spoke by phone earlier on Tuesday with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;to discuss the situation on the ground. Biden outlined the actions he and other allies have taken to support Israel in the aftermath of the attack and expressed his horror about “sickening” reports of torture inflicted by militants on innocent civilians.

“Our hearts may be broken but our resolve is clear,” said Biden, who compared Hamas action to the terrorist group ISIS. He added, “Let there be no doubt. The United States has Israel’s back. We’ll make sure the Jewish and democratic state of Israel can defend itself today, tomorrow as we always have.”

Biden, in his public remarks and statements since Hamas launched its attacks, has repeatedly emphasized his shock over the breadth and brutality of the Hamas assault — a blitz by land, sea and air that surprised Israeli and U.S. intelligence and that has killed hundreds Israelis and left even more wounded.

Retaliatory strikes by Israel on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/gaza-strip">Gaza Strip</a>&nbsp;have also left hundreds of dead and wounded Palestinians in the blockaded 141-square mile area, one the poorest places in the world. The death toll was expected to grow as Israel pummeled Gaza with airstrikes and sent tens of thousands of Palestinians fleeing into U.N. shelters.

Biden said he has directed his team to share intelligence and military experts to consult and advise Israelis. He also confirmed that the U.S. believes that Americans are among dozens of hostages taken by Hamas.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the U.S. does not know the precise number of American hostages that were taken. Sullivan said that the U.S., at the moment, has no plans of putting U.S. troops on the ground.

“As president I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans being held hostage around the world,” Biden said.

The White House on Monday confirmed that it has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-state-department-39b9e7f15334ff756f022704f9516867">already begun delivering critically needed munitions and military equipment</a>&nbsp;to Israel, and the Pentagon was reviewing its inventories to see what else can be sent quickly to boost its ally in the war against Hamas.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-american-carrier-strike-force-mediterranean-db05d535a9ebb931f684f758c9b6f628">Ford carrier strike group</a>&nbsp;has arrived in the far Eastern Mediterranean, within range to provide a host of air support or long-range strike options for Israel if requested, but also to surge U.S. military presence there to prevent the war from spilling over into a more dangerous regional conflict, officials said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696938143887.png" alt="The White House lit up blue and white Monday night as a symbol of the United States’ enduring support and solidarity with the people of Israel in the wake of the horrific terrorist attacks committed by Hamas.-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The White House lit up blue and white Monday night as a symbol of the United States’ enduring support and solidarity with the people of Israel in the wake of the horrific terrorist attacks committed by Hamas.-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday confirmed that U.S. citizens are among the hostages captured by Hamas in this weekend’s attack on Israel and he condemned the militant group for “sheer evil” for its shocking multipronged attack on Israel launched from the Gaza Strip that has killed hundreds of civilians, including at least 14 American citizens.(Click below to watch a replay of the President's comments)<div>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7v40bJGqfEo?si=wCspaDDhv7t2n9B0&amp;start=5840" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Biden and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Vice President Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;spoke by phone earlier on Tuesday with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;to discuss the situation on the ground. Biden outlined the actions he and other allies have taken to support Israel in the aftermath of the attack and expressed his horror about “sickening” reports of torture inflicted by militants on innocent civilians.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Biden on Hamas attacks against Israel: &quot;This was an act of sheer evil.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/JlfEvefe4f">pic.twitter.com/JlfEvefe4f</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1711824332270248058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Our hearts may be broken but our resolve is clear,” said Biden, who compared Hamas action to the terrorist group ISIS. He added, “Let there be no doubt. The United States has Israel’s back. We’ll make sure the Jewish and democratic state of Israel can defend itself today, tomorrow as we always have.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696961319712.png" alt="President Biden on Tuesday sat down with our teams to receive a situation update on the terrorist attack in Israel and to direct next steps.&nbsp;We connected with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss coordination to support Israel, deter hostile actors, and protect innocent people." />
 <figcaption>President Biden on Tuesday sat down with our teams to receive a situation update on the terrorist attack in Israel and to direct next steps.&nbsp;We connected with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss coordination to support Israel, deter hostile actors, and protect innocent people.</figcaption>
 </figure>Biden, in his public remarks and statements since Hamas launched its attacks, has repeatedly emphasized his shock over the breadth and brutality of the Hamas assault — a blitz by land, sea and air that surprised Israeli and U.S. intelligence and that has killed hundreds Israelis and left even more wounded.Retaliatory strikes by Israel on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/gaza-strip">Gaza Strip</a>&nbsp;have also left hundreds of dead and wounded Palestinians in the blockaded 141-square mile area, one the poorest places in the world. The death toll was expected to grow as Israel pummeled Gaza with airstrikes and sent tens of thousands of Palestinians fleeing into U.N. shelters.Biden said he has directed his team to share intelligence and military experts to consult and advise Israelis. He also confirmed that the U.S. believes that Americans are among dozens of hostages taken by Hamas.White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the U.S. does not know the precise number of American hostages that were taken. Sullivan said that the U.S., at the moment, has no plans of putting U.S. troops on the ground.“As president I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans being held hostage around the world,” Biden said.The White House on Monday confirmed that it has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-state-department-39b9e7f15334ff756f022704f9516867">already begun delivering critically needed munitions and military equipment</a>&nbsp;to Israel, and the Pentagon was reviewing its inventories to see what else can be sent quickly to boost its ally in the war against Hamas.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-american-carrier-strike-force-mediterranean-db05d535a9ebb931f684f758c9b6f628">Ford carrier strike group</a>&nbsp;has arrived in the far Eastern Mediterranean, within range to provide a host of air support or long-range strike options for Israel if requested, but also to surge U.S. military presence there to prevent the war from spilling over into a more dangerous regional conflict, officials said.The Pentagon has said that the U.S. warplanes, destroyers and cruisers that sailed with the Ford will conduct maritime and air operations which could include intelligence collection, interdictions and long-range strikes.Along with the Ford, the U.S. is sending the cruiser USS Normandy and destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt, and the U.S. is augmenting Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.“Let me say again to any country, any organization, anyone thinking of taking advantage of the situation,” Biden said. “I have one word: Don’t."Biden is dispatching his top diplomat to Israel on an urgent mission to show U.S. support after the attacks, the State Department said Tuesday.State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Secretary of State Antony Blinken would travel in the coming days to deliver a message of solidarity and support. He said Blinken will also “talk about what additional resources we can give them.”Blinken will leave Wednesday and is expected to arrive Thursday.Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told reporters traveling with him Tuesday to a Ukraine contact group meeting in Brussels that a small group of U.S. special operations forces is also working with the Israelis to help with planning and intelligence.Biden on Monday in a joint statement with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak underscored the “legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people” and their decades-long push for sovereignty. But the leaders also sought to separate the Palestinians’ aspirations from the “appalling acts of terrorism” by Hamas.Americans have had a gloomy outlook on Biden’s performance on the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Six in 10 Americans (61%)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-israel-united-states-biden-netanyahu-41ba5cb189185f3e4956f4465c00999f">disapproved of how Biden was handling the conflict</a>&nbsp;between the Israelis and Palestinians, according to an August poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. About one-third (35%) of U.S. adults approved, which was slightly lower than Biden’s overall approval rating of 42% in the same poll.Four in 10 Americans (44%) said the U.S. gives about the right amount of support to Israel in the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians. Republicans were more likely than Democrats to say the U.S. should offer more support to Israel. Four in 10 Americans (42%) said the correct amount of support is given to the Palestinians. Democrats and Independents were more likely than Republicans to say the Palestinians should receive more support.The current crisis seems certain to further test public sentiment about Biden’s Mideast foreign policy approach.The Biden White House has pointed to its handling of the last conflict between Israel and Gaza in 2021 as playing a crucial part in limiting the length and loss of life in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-was-the-outcome-of-israel-gaza-war-4f94e80a9d6f53ecd5353db83ed27526">a war that stretched over 11 days</a>&nbsp;and killed at least 250 people in Gaza and 13 in Israel.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-was-the-outcome-of-israel-gaza-war-4f94e80a9d6f53ecd5353db83ed27526">During the 2021 conflict,</a>&nbsp;Biden limited his public commentary while pressing Netanyahu in private to end the conflict. His behind-the-scenes effort played out even as some of the president’s fellow Democrats pressured him to speak out against the Israelis as the death toll climbed in Gaza and as tens of thousands of Palestinians were displaced by the aerial bombardment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/africa-middle-east-business-israel-palestinian-conflict-health-d2781b6e5aea8602547c5c0b4112e977">White House officials said at the time.</a>But this conflict is unlikely to end so quickly. Domestic and international pressure could quickly mount on Biden to pressure Netanyahu to wind down operations to prevent the suffering of innocent Gazans.Netanyahu said on Saturday that civilians in Gaza should leave areas near where Hamas is operating as the Israeli military planned to take defining action against the the militant group.Sullivan said U.S. government officials have discussed details with Israel and Egyptian officials about where people in Gaza should go.