By&nbsp;Jim Garamone, Department of Defense

WASHINGTON —U.S. commanders in Europe have placed bases in a higher state of alert, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said Monday.

Singh wouldn't comment on intelligence matters, but she said U.S. commanders in Europe raised the threat level in response to "a combination of factors and not related to a single threat."&nbsp;

Those factors could impact the safety and security of service members and their families based in the region, she said. &nbsp;

"U.S. European Command is taking steps to increase vigilance for our service members, their families and our facilities," she said during a Pentagon briefing. "This was done out of an abundance of caution. I won't get into more specifics."&nbsp;

There are a number of high-profile events happening on the continent, including the 2024 European football championship and the upcoming Olympics in Paris. "There are a combination of factors, including events that are taking place in the theater that, just out of due diligence, it is good to make sure that our service members are taking the precautionary measures that they need for themselves and their families," Singh said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719872352348.png" alt=" The sun rises at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Jan. 30, 2024. The base supports the largest population of Americans outside of the U.S., around 56,000.&nbsp;Photo By:Air Force Senior Airman Jordan Lazaro" />
 <figcaption> The sun rises at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Jan. 30, 2024. The base supports the largest population of Americans outside of the U.S., around 56,000.&nbsp;Photo By:Air Force Senior Airman Jordan Lazaro</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Jim Garamone, Department of DefenseWASHINGTON —U.S. commanders in Europe have placed bases in a higher state of alert, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said Monday.Singh wouldn't comment on intelligence matters, but she said U.S. commanders in Europe raised the threat level in response to "a combination of factors and not related to a single threat."&nbsp;Those factors could impact the safety and security of service members and their families based in the region, she said. &nbsp;"U.S. European Command is taking steps to increase vigilance for our service members, their families and our facilities," she said during a Pentagon briefing. "This was done out of an abundance of caution. I won't get into more specifics."&nbsp;There are a number of high-profile events happening on the continent, including the 2024 European football championship and the upcoming Olympics in Paris. "There are a combination of factors, including events that are taking place in the theater that, just out of due diligence, it is good to make sure that our service members are taking the precautionary measures that they need for themselves and their families," Singh said.&nbsp;

U.S. military bases in Europe moved to higher state of alert

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/01/mad-dash-in-final-week-for-this-years-nebraska-petition-drives/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — It’s make-or-break week for organizers of petition drives who are trying to get their issue on the 2024 general election ballot in Nebraska.&nbsp;

And voter fatigue with paid and volunteer petition circulators has touched even some high-profile efforts making last-minute pushes for support from registered voters by Wednesday’s 5 p.m. deadline.

Crista Eggers, part of a group petitioning to legalize medical marijuana, told the Nebraska Examiner Sunday that her group still needed about 12,000 more signatures to feel secure.

In a tweet, the group said patients with cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder, epilepsy, AIDS and chronic pain would benefit from access to medical marijuana and are hoping for voter support.

“We need them to get out … and sign the petition,” she said of her two initiatives. “It is absolutely down to the wire. If people take five minutes out of their day, we will get the numbers.”

One initiative would legalize medical marijuana.&nbsp;The other, related initiative would spell out the regulations for prescribing and using the medication.

Some critics of the push have argued that most states that pursue medical marijuana do so as a step toward broader legalization of recreational marijuana, which they oppose.

State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, a key organizer of an effort to replace Nebraska’s property and income taxes with the EPIC Option consumption tax, said his group is seeing more interest.

People frustrated by rising property valuations are signing onto the petitions. Gov. Jim Pillen and other&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/15/nebraska-gov-pillen-taking-potshots-at-state-senators-while-seeking-tax-relief-support/">EPIC tax opponents</a>&nbsp;have pointed out that the measure would make many purchases more expensive.

The EPIC tax petitioners are also circulating a petition that would exempt groceries from the tax.

Erdman said his group won’t know how many signatures it has gathered until its 250 volunteer circulators turn them in early this week.&nbsp;

“We hope to have enough, but we don’t know just yet,” he said.&nbsp;

All three abortion-related petitions being circulated are making late pushes for signatures. One petition drive would ask voters to include abortion rights in the state constitution. Two others are taking different approaches to restricting, limiting or banning abortions.

Protect Our Rights advertised this weekend on social media, seeking late signers for the abortion-rights petition. They say they are confident Nebraskans will help them reach their goal.

Protect Women and Children has been hosting signing events with U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts for the petition to restrict abortions after the first trimester. If passed at the ballot box, the measure would leave open the possibility of the Legislature passing further restrictions in the future.&nbsp;

Organizers declined to comment this weekend on how things were going. Several political observers said they expect this effort, as well as the abortion-rights petition, to reach the November ballot. Both efforts are using paid circulators.

The third group, Now Choose Life, continues organizing signings at Nebraska churches for its “personhood” amendment at churches. They say tens of thousands have signed on. But they got started late.

“We won’t stop,” organizer Rose Kohl said.&nbsp;

One group — Support Our Schools Nebraska — has until July 17 to gather signatures. The timing is different because this effort seeks to repeal a law enacted late in this year’s legislative session.

The group’s target is to reject State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55486" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 1402</a>, which creates a $10 million-a-year, state-funded voucher program for students attending private K-12 schools. LB 1402 replaced a 2023 law providing a tax credit for donors funding scholarships to private K-12 schools.

Support Our Schools spokeswoman Karen Kilgarin said this weekend the group continues gathering signatures but may need the extra two-week window to finish the task.

The group says that the program would put public school funding at risk. Proponents of LB 1402 have said that poor Nebraska families deserve the opportunity to use such vouchers to attend a private school of their choice.&nbsp;

Another petition drive, which would require Nebraska employers to provide paid sick leave for more workers, turned in its signatures last week and said&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/27/petition-signatures-turned-in-for-nebraska-paid-sick-leave-ballot-measure/?emci=b7a84747-a635-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;emdi=a9a449c9-0636-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;ceid=392834">138,000 voters</a>&nbsp;had signed the petitions.

Petitions seeking to change state law, like that one, need about 87,000 registered voters’ signatures, spread throughout the state. Constitutional amendments need signatures from 10% of Nebraska registered voters, or about 123,000 people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719866664681.jpeg" alt="Stacks of signed petitions sat in Crista Eggers’ home in Omaha in May 2022, awaiting submission to the State of Nebraska. Eggers is the statewide campaign coordinator for Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana. (Rebecca S. Gratz)" />
 <figcaption>Stacks of signed petitions sat in Crista Eggers’ home in Omaha in May 2022, awaiting submission to the State of Nebraska. Eggers is the statewide campaign coordinator for Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana. (Rebecca S. Gratz)</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/01/mad-dash-in-final-week-for-this-years-nebraska-petition-drives/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — It’s make-or-break week for organizers of petition drives who are trying to get their issue on the 2024 general election ballot in Nebraska.&nbsp;And voter fatigue with paid and volunteer petition circulators has touched even some high-profile efforts making last-minute pushes for support from registered voters by Wednesday’s 5 p.m. deadline.Crista Eggers, part of a group petitioning to legalize medical marijuana, told the Nebraska Examiner Sunday that her group still needed about 12,000 more signatures to feel secure.In a tweet, the group said patients with cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder, epilepsy, AIDS and chronic pain would benefit from access to medical marijuana and are hoping for voter support.“We need them to get out … and sign the petition,” she said of her two initiatives. “It is absolutely down to the wire. If people take five minutes out of their day, we will get the numbers.”One initiative would legalize medical marijuana.&nbsp;The other, related initiative would spell out the regulations for prescribing and using the medication.Some critics of the push have argued that most states that pursue medical marijuana do so as a step toward broader legalization of recreational marijuana, which they oppose.<h2>EPIC tax count coming</h2>State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, a key organizer of an effort to replace Nebraska’s property and income taxes with the EPIC Option consumption tax, said his group is seeing more interest.People frustrated by rising property valuations are signing onto the petitions. Gov. Jim Pillen and other&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/15/nebraska-gov-pillen-taking-potshots-at-state-senators-while-seeking-tax-relief-support/">EPIC tax opponents</a>&nbsp;have pointed out that the measure would make many purchases more expensive.The EPIC tax petitioners are also circulating a petition that would exempt groceries from the tax.Erdman said his group won’t know how many signatures it has gathered until its 250 volunteer circulators turn them in early this week.&nbsp;“We hope to have enough, but we don’t know just yet,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Abortion trio sprinting to finish</h2>All three abortion-related petitions being circulated are making late pushes for signatures. One petition drive would ask voters to include abortion rights in the state constitution. Two others are taking different approaches to restricting, limiting or banning abortions.Protect Our Rights advertised this weekend on social media, seeking late signers for the abortion-rights petition. They say they are confident Nebraskans will help them reach their goal.Protect Women and Children has been hosting signing events with U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts for the petition to restrict abortions after the first trimester. If passed at the ballot box, the measure would leave open the possibility of the Legislature passing further restrictions in the future.&nbsp;Organizers declined to comment this weekend on how things were going. Several political observers said they expect this effort, as well as the abortion-rights petition, to reach the November ballot. Both efforts are using paid circulators.The third group, Now Choose Life, continues organizing signings at Nebraska churches for its “personhood” amendment at churches. They say tens of thousands have signed on. But they got started late.“We won’t stop,” organizer Rose Kohl said.&nbsp;<h2>Schools petition has little longer</h2>One group — Support Our Schools Nebraska — has until July 17 to gather signatures. The timing is different because this effort seeks to repeal a law enacted late in this year’s legislative session.The group’s target is to reject State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55486" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 1402</a>, which creates a $10 million-a-year, state-funded voucher program for students attending private K-12 schools. LB 1402 replaced a 2023 law providing a tax credit for donors funding scholarships to private K-12 schools.Support Our Schools spokeswoman Karen Kilgarin said this weekend the group continues gathering signatures but may need the extra two-week window to finish the task.The group says that the program would put public school funding at risk. Proponents of LB 1402 have said that poor Nebraska families deserve the opportunity to use such vouchers to attend a private school of their choice.&nbsp;<h2>Paid sick leave turned in signatures</h2>Another petition drive, which would require Nebraska employers to provide paid sick leave for more workers, turned in its signatures last week and said&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/27/petition-signatures-turned-in-for-nebraska-paid-sick-leave-ballot-measure/?emci=b7a84747-a635-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;emdi=a9a449c9-0636-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096&amp;ceid=392834">138,000 voters</a>&nbsp;had signed the petitions.Petitions seeking to change state law, like that one, need about 87,000 registered voters’ signatures, spread throughout the state. Constitutional amendments need signatures from 10% of Nebraska registered voters, or about 123,000 people.

Mad dash in final week for this year’s Nebraska petition drives

Omaha, NE&nbsp;(July 1, 2024) —&nbsp;As AAA prepares to rescue nearly 800,000 drivers nationwide with car trouble during the week of Independence Day, it will also provide a free service to keep impaired drivers off the road.&nbsp;The Auto Club Group is activating its&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCz7WoHk-2FkOMb-2Bo0-2FfpXKywLVJXKjdcfxCcOyPtQM9wK3VPpFjYH9mYGVSuPcUgSa5w-3D-3DQj8p_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANqzVGCMf5GhPmzgtaEsrl-2FWP6wJfRIqt1ICphlUnz4XMyP3yXsEAbNgIGn3aK3E1MP6KxUtrZnrQ0ztkLud42mQVmUjRJg2Lkq-2Beq2NyFdPWGOiRHRntJSLwkUK6IWEbEOMZXOrko7w9gIP2tj8i7-2BGOlWyny77iWhxXbgqP2KNhMqbb2IoqrkQdedvz7DuoXFiWXOHfiOl026vkObLY7x9Q5zpaz1HlgXZMmNDcPK9U-3D">Tow to Go</a>&nbsp;program in Iowa, Nebraska and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles.

The Auto Club Group has provided the&nbsp;Tow to Go&nbsp;program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.

“By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications,” said Brian Ortner, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Please plan ahead by asking a friend to be your designated driver or use a ride sharing service. If those plans fall through, you can call Tow to Go and AAA will arrange for a safe ride for you.”

Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719866048080.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Omaha, NE&nbsp;(July 1, 2024) —&nbsp;As AAA prepares to rescue nearly 800,000 drivers nationwide with car trouble during the week of Independence Day, it will also provide a free service to keep impaired drivers off the road.&nbsp;The Auto Club Group is activating its&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCz7WoHk-2FkOMb-2Bo0-2FfpXKywLVJXKjdcfxCcOyPtQM9wK3VPpFjYH9mYGVSuPcUgSa5w-3D-3DQj8p_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86ANqzVGCMf5GhPmzgtaEsrl-2FWP6wJfRIqt1ICphlUnz4XMyP3yXsEAbNgIGn3aK3E1MP6KxUtrZnrQ0ztkLud42mQVmUjRJg2Lkq-2Beq2NyFdPWGOiRHRntJSLwkUK6IWEbEOMZXOrko7w9gIP2tj8i7-2BGOlWyny77iWhxXbgqP2KNhMqbb2IoqrkQdedvz7DuoXFiWXOHfiOl026vkObLY7x9Q5zpaz1HlgXZMmNDcPK9U-3D">Tow to Go</a>&nbsp;program in Iowa, Nebraska and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles.The Auto Club Group has provided the&nbsp;Tow to Go&nbsp;program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.<ul>
 <li>Tow to Go is active from&nbsp;6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3rd&nbsp;to 6 a.m. Monday, July 8th.</li><li>Free confidential rides are available to AAA members and non-members.</li>
 </ul>“By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications,” said Brian Ortner, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Please plan ahead by asking a friend to be your designated driver or use a ride sharing service. If those plans fall through, you can call Tow to Go and AAA will arrange for a safe ride for you.”Service AreasFlorida, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)Phone Number(855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246Guidelines<ul>
 <li>Provided&nbsp;from&nbsp;6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3rd&nbsp;to 6 a.m. Monday, July 8th.</li><li>Free and available to AAA members and non-members.</li><li>Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location&nbsp;within a 10-mile radius.</li><li>Appointments&nbsp;cannot&nbsp;be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.</li><li>In some situations,&nbsp;AAA&nbsp;may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.</li><li>Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.</li>
 </ul>

AAA Activates 'Tow to Go' in Iowa and Nebraska  for Independence Day Weekend

&nbsp;Kearney, Neb. - The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) was dispatched to a structure fire at 6315 40th Avenue. At the time of dispatch, KVFD was advised that the house was almost fully engulfed and that all occupants had safely evacuated. Upon arrival, KVFD observed a large house with heavy fire on the back side of the structure and fire coming from all roof vents. Crews deployed handlines to bring the fire under control. Mutual Aid was requested from Pleasanton, Elm Creek, and Gibbon Volunteer Fire Departments. 

There were areas of the home that were inaccessible due to safety concerns. KVFD requested an excavator from the Buffalo County Department of Roads to assist with overhaul of the structure. The State Fire Marshal was requested to assist with the origin and cause investigation. The cause is still under investigation. 

However, the preliminary investigation indicates embers from a fire pit that was used just a couple hours prior to the fire blew against the home and ignited the back side of the house on fire. The wind and ventilation played a major factor in how quickly the fire spread through the home. At the time of the fire, the house was occupied by two adults, three children, and 1 dog. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family displaced by this fire. 

Other agencies that assisted were the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, CHI Good Samaritan EMS, Northwestern Energy, Black Hills Energy, and Dawson Public Power.&nbsp;

KVFD has responded to multiple fires this weekend, so as a reminder, KVFD reminds everyone to use extreme caution when utilizing fire pits and fireworks. Never leave a fire pit unattended, and we recommend placing ashes and discarded fireworks into a metal bucket full of water to ensure they are fully extinguished.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719840066963.jpeg" alt="Crews batting a house fire in Kearney (Courtesy of Buffalo County Sheriff)" />
 <figcaption>Crews batting a house fire in Kearney (Courtesy of Buffalo County Sheriff)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Kearney, Neb. - The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) was dispatched to a structure fire at 6315 40th Avenue. At the time of dispatch, KVFD was advised that the house was almost fully engulfed and that all occupants had safely evacuated. Upon arrival, KVFD observed a large house with heavy fire on the back side of the structure and fire coming from all roof vents. Crews deployed handlines to bring the fire under control. Mutual Aid was requested from Pleasanton, Elm Creek, and Gibbon Volunteer Fire Departments. There were areas of the home that were inaccessible due to safety concerns. KVFD requested an excavator from the Buffalo County Department of Roads to assist with overhaul of the structure. The State Fire Marshal was requested to assist with the origin and cause investigation. The cause is still under investigation. However, the preliminary investigation indicates embers from a fire pit that was used just a couple hours prior to the fire blew against the home and ignited the back side of the house on fire. The wind and ventilation played a major factor in how quickly the fire spread through the home. At the time of the fire, the house was occupied by two adults, three children, and 1 dog. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family displaced by this fire. Other agencies that assisted were the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, CHI Good Samaritan EMS, Northwestern Energy, Black Hills Energy, and Dawson Public Power.&nbsp;KVFD has responded to multiple fires this weekend, so as a reminder, KVFD reminds everyone to use extreme caution when utilizing fire pits and fireworks. Never leave a fire pit unattended, and we recommend placing ashes and discarded fireworks into a metal bucket full of water to ensure they are fully extinguished.&nbsp;

Investigation underway into early Monday morning house fire in Kearney

UNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Lincoln, Neb. — For the fifth consecutive year, the average all-land value of agricultural land in Nebraska increased, reaching $4,015 per acre in the 12-month period ending Feb. 1, 2024, according to the final report from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s 2023-2024 Farm Real Estate Market Survey.

This marks a 5% increase over the prior year and is the highest non-inflation-adjusted statewide land value in the history of the survey. Based on 2024 market values, Nebraska's estimated total value of agricultural land and buildings rose to approximately $179.2 billion.

The survey’s final report was published June 28 by the university’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, which is based in the Department of Agricultural Economics. It provides current point-in-time estimates of agricultural land values and cash rental rates, broken down regionally across a variety of land types and classes.

Purchases for farm expansion, current livestock prices, and 1031 tax exchanges were identified in the report as the major economic forces that guided the higher market value of land across the state. According to survey results, the amount of land offerings for sale and non-farmer investor interest in land also contributed to higher values.

Inflation pressure continuing from the prior year led many operations to consider investing in assets like land or agricultural equipment, according to Jim Jansen, an agricultural economist with Nebraska Extension. He co-authored the survey and report with Jeffrey Stokes, a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics.

“Federal Reserve policies to combat inflation have increased borrowing and financing expenses. Higher interest rates influence the cost of short-term lending for annual operating loans and long-term purchases such as farm real estate,” Jansen said. “Rising interest rates might affect the agricultural real estate market without additional profitability to offset theincreasing financing expenses.”

“Market participants utilized higher returns on livestock when acquiring different grades of land,” he said, adding that higher long-term interest rates may help moderate Nebraska land values in the future.

Grassland tillable and non-tillable land across the state experienced the highest one-year changes in value, up 7% and 8%, respectively. The value of gravity-irrigated cropland rose by 3%, center pivot-irrigated cropland gained 4%, and the statewide value of dryland cropland rose between 3% and 5%.

The average size of land parcels sold in Nebraska in 2023 was 245 acres, at an average sale price of $4,532 per acre. The highest prices were in the northeast and eastern parts of the state, at $9,341 and $9,723 per acre. The lowest prices per acre were reported in the northwest and north regions, at $1,093 and $1,439 per acre, respectively.

The survey found that cash rental rates for cropland in the state were moderating compared to the prior year, rising between 3% and 5%. Pasture rental rates increased between about 5% and 10% per acre. Cow-calf and stocker monthly rental rates also increased in each of the state’s eight regional districts.

The Nebraska Farm Real Estate Report is the final product of an annual survey of land professionals, including appraisers, farm and ranch managers, and agricultural bankers. Results from the survey are divided by land class and agricultural statistic district. Land values and rental rates presented in the report are averages of survey participants’ responses by district. Actual land values and rental rates may vary depending on the quality of the parcel and local market for an area. Preliminary land values and rental rates are subject to change as additional surveys are returned.

The full report is available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://cap.unl.edu/realeaste" target="_blank">https://cap.unl.edu/realeaste</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719840998125.jpeg" alt=" Image by Craig Chandler" />
 <figcaption> Image by Craig Chandler</figcaption>
 </figure>Ryan EvansUNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesLincoln, Neb. — For the fifth consecutive year, the average all-land value of agricultural land in Nebraska increased, reaching $4,015 per acre in the 12-month period ending Feb. 1, 2024, according to the final report from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s 2023-2024 Farm Real Estate Market Survey.This marks a 5% increase over the prior year and is the highest non-inflation-adjusted statewide land value in the history of the survey. Based on 2024 market values, Nebraska's estimated total value of agricultural land and buildings rose to approximately $179.2 billion.The survey’s final report was published June 28 by the university’s Center for Agricultural Profitability, which is based in the Department of Agricultural Economics. It provides current point-in-time estimates of agricultural land values and cash rental rates, broken down regionally across a variety of land types and classes.Purchases for farm expansion, current livestock prices, and 1031 tax exchanges were identified in the report as the major economic forces that guided the higher market value of land across the state. According to survey results, the amount of land offerings for sale and non-farmer investor interest in land also contributed to higher values.Inflation pressure continuing from the prior year led many operations to consider investing in assets like land or agricultural equipment, according to Jim Jansen, an agricultural economist with Nebraska Extension. He co-authored the survey and report with Jeffrey Stokes, a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics.“Federal Reserve policies to combat inflation have increased borrowing and financing expenses. Higher interest rates influence the cost of short-term lending for annual operating loans and long-term purchases such as farm real estate,” Jansen said. “Rising interest rates might affect the agricultural real estate market without additional profitability to offset theincreasing financing expenses.”“Market participants utilized higher returns on livestock when acquiring different grades of land,” he said, adding that higher long-term interest rates may help moderate Nebraska land values in the future.Grassland tillable and non-tillable land across the state experienced the highest one-year changes in value, up 7% and 8%, respectively. The value of gravity-irrigated cropland rose by 3%, center pivot-irrigated cropland gained 4%, and the statewide value of dryland cropland rose between 3% and 5%.The average size of land parcels sold in Nebraska in 2023 was 245 acres, at an average sale price of $4,532 per acre. The highest prices were in the northeast and eastern parts of the state, at $9,341 and $9,723 per acre. The lowest prices per acre were reported in the northwest and north regions, at $1,093 and $1,439 per acre, respectively.The survey found that cash rental rates for cropland in the state were moderating compared to the prior year, rising between 3% and 5%. Pasture rental rates increased between about 5% and 10% per acre. Cow-calf and stocker monthly rental rates also increased in each of the state’s eight regional districts.The Nebraska Farm Real Estate Report is the final product of an annual survey of land professionals, including appraisers, farm and ranch managers, and agricultural bankers. Results from the survey are divided by land class and agricultural statistic district. Land values and rental rates presented in the report are averages of survey participants’ responses by district. Actual land values and rental rates may vary depending on the quality of the parcel and local market for an area. Preliminary land values and rental rates are subject to change as additional surveys are returned.The full report is available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://cap.unl.edu/realeaste" target="_blank">https://cap.unl.edu/realeaste</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNL survey finds Nebraska Ag land values up 5%

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. presidents enjoy full immunity from criminal charges for their official “core constitutional” acts, but no immunity for unofficial acts, the Supreme Court ruled Monday, sending former President Donald Trump’s case back to the lower courts.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/23pdf/23-939_e2pg.pdf">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the ruling

The justices left open the question of how far official acts can reach, possibly reshaping the contours of the American presidency.

Trump escalated his immunity claim to the nation’s highest bench after two lower courts&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-claim-presidential-immunity-turned-down-federal-appeals-court-dc" target="_blank">denied</a>&nbsp;his request for protection from federal criminal charges alleging he schemed to overturn the 2020 presidential results.

The decision about the presumptive Republican presidential nominee’s actions while in office likely&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/delayed-supreme-court-ruling-makes-trump-trial-2020-charges-unlikely-election" target="_blank">closes the door</a>&nbsp;to any chance that Trump’s election subversion case could go to trial before Election Day.

The justices took up the case in February but did not hear&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-supreme-court-floats-return-trial-court-trump-presidential-immunity-case" target="_blank">oral arguments</a>&nbsp;until April 25.

The trial court must now grapple with whether Trump’s alleged conduct to spread false information about the 2020 election results and conspiring to overturn them qualified as official presidential action.

In a 6-3&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/23pdf/23-939_e2pg.pdf" target="_blank">opinion</a>, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. wrote that the president is subject to criminal prosecution for unofficial acts, “like everyone else.”

“But unlike anyone else, the President is a branch of government, and the Constitution vests in him sweeping powers and duties,” Roberts wrote. “Accounting for that reality—and ensuring that the President may exercise those powers forcefully, as the Framers anticipated he would—does not place him above the law; it preserves the basic structure of the Constitution.”

The Supreme Court held that Trump’s conversations with Department of Justice officials regarding the election results were official but left unanswered questions about other conduct named in Department of Justice special counsel Jack’s Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149.1.0_2.pdf" target="_blank">indictment</a>&nbsp;of Trump.

“​​Certain allegations—such as those involving Trump’s discussions with the Acting Attorney General—are readily categorized in light of the nature of the President’s official relationship to the office held by that individual,” the opinion reads. “Other allegations— such as those involving Trump’s interactions with the Vice President, state officials, and certain private parties, and his comments to the general public—present more difficult questions.”

In a dissenting opinion, Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote the decision makes the president “immune from criminal prosecution if he used the trappings of his office to violate criminal law.”

“If the occupant of that office misuses official power for personal gain, the criminal law that the rest of us must abide will not provide a backstop,” Sotomayor wrote.&nbsp;“With fear for our democracy, I dissent.”

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-makes-one-last-presidential-immunity-argument-us-supreme-court" target="_blank">claimed</a>&nbsp;in court filings that he could not be prosecuted for actions he took while still in office. His legal team also argues that former presidents cannot be tried in the court of law unless they are first impeached by the U.S. House and convicted by the Senate.

The indictment, which a federal grand jury handed up in August 2023,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/fueled-lies-trump-charged-seeking-overturn-2020-election-6" target="_blank">alleges</a>&nbsp;Trump knowingly spread falsehoods to his supporters, plotting with co-conspirators to overturn results in seven states and eventually working his base into a frenzy that culminated in a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, the day Congress was to certify electoral votes.

DOJ’s Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149.1.0_2.pdf" target="_blank">charged</a>&nbsp;the former president with conspiracy to defraud the United States; conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding; obstruction of, and attempt to obstruct, an official proceeding; and conspiracy against rights.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717443721620.png" alt="File photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. presidents enjoy full immunity from criminal charges for their official “core constitutional” acts, but no immunity for unofficial acts, the Supreme Court ruled Monday, sending former President Donald Trump’s case back to the lower courts.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/23pdf/23-939_e2pg.pdf">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the rulingThe justices left open the question of how far official acts can reach, possibly reshaping the contours of the American presidency.Trump escalated his immunity claim to the nation’s highest bench after two lower courts&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-claim-presidential-immunity-turned-down-federal-appeals-court-dc" target="_blank">denied</a>&nbsp;his request for protection from federal criminal charges alleging he schemed to overturn the 2020 presidential results.The decision about the presumptive Republican presidential nominee’s actions while in office likely&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/delayed-supreme-court-ruling-makes-trump-trial-2020-charges-unlikely-election" target="_blank">closes the door</a>&nbsp;to any chance that Trump’s election subversion case could go to trial before Election Day.The justices took up the case in February but did not hear&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-supreme-court-floats-return-trial-court-trump-presidential-immunity-case" target="_blank">oral arguments</a>&nbsp;until April 25.The trial court must now grapple with whether Trump’s alleged conduct to spread false information about the 2020 election results and conspiring to overturn them qualified as official presidential action.In a 6-3&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/23pdf/23-939_e2pg.pdf" target="_blank">opinion</a>, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. wrote that the president is subject to criminal prosecution for unofficial acts, “like everyone else.”“But unlike anyone else, the President is a branch of government, and the Constitution vests in him sweeping powers and duties,” Roberts wrote. “Accounting for that reality—and ensuring that the President may exercise those powers forcefully, as the Framers anticipated he would—does not place him above the law; it preserves the basic structure of the Constitution.”The Supreme Court held that Trump’s conversations with Department of Justice officials regarding the election results were official but left unanswered questions about other conduct named in Department of Justice special counsel Jack’s Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149.1.0_2.pdf" target="_blank">indictment</a>&nbsp;of Trump.“​​Certain allegations—such as those involving Trump’s discussions with the Acting Attorney General—are readily categorized in light of the nature of the President’s official relationship to the office held by that individual,” the opinion reads. “Other allegations— such as those involving Trump’s interactions with the Vice President, state officials, and certain private parties, and his comments to the general public—present more difficult questions.”In a dissenting opinion, Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote the decision makes the president “immune from criminal prosecution if he used the trappings of his office to violate criminal law.”“If the occupant of that office misuses official power for personal gain, the criminal law that the rest of us must abide will not provide a backstop,” Sotomayor wrote.&nbsp;“With fear for our democracy, I dissent.”Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-makes-one-last-presidential-immunity-argument-us-supreme-court" target="_blank">claimed</a>&nbsp;in court filings that he could not be prosecuted for actions he took while still in office. His legal team also argues that former presidents cannot be tried in the court of law unless they are first impeached by the U.S. House and convicted by the Senate.The indictment, which a federal grand jury handed up in August 2023,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/fueled-lies-trump-charged-seeking-overturn-2020-election-6" target="_blank">alleges</a>&nbsp;Trump knowingly spread falsehoods to his supporters, plotting with co-conspirators to overturn results in seven states and eventually working his base into a frenzy that culminated in a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, the day Congress was to certify electoral votes.DOJ’s Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149/gov.uscourts.dcd.258149.1.0_2.pdf" target="_blank">charged</a>&nbsp;the former president with conspiracy to defraud the United States; conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding; obstruction of, and attempt to obstruct, an official proceeding; and conspiracy against rights.This is a developing story and will be updated.

Presidential immunity extends to some official acts, Supreme Court rules in Trump case

&nbsp;(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is proud to congratulate Pam Zilly on her retirement after 37 years of service to the people of Nebraska. Zilly has spent the last 16 years as Director of the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory.

“Pam has been an incredible public servant for nearly four decades,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Her leadership and expertise have been vital to the success of the NSP Crime Lab, which has absolutely made an impact on public safety throughout our state.”

Zilly began her career with NSP in 1987, rising through the ranks at the Crime Lab until her promotion to director in 2008. Since that time, the Crime Lab team designed and built a new facility, modernized numerous scientific testing procedures to assist in criminal investigations, and eliminated a backlog of thousands of previously unsubmitted sexual assault test kits.

With Zilly’s retirement, NSP is proud to announce the promotion of Jason Linder as the next NSP Crime Laboratory Director. Linder has been serving with NSP since 2002, beginning his career as a Forensic Scientist in North Platte. He has served as the NSP Crime Lab Forensic Division Manager since 2012.

“Jason’s experience and knowledge make him an excellent choice to lead our team of scientists at the Crime Lab,” said Colonel Bolduc. “As technology continues to advance, Jason and our entire team will continue to work to be leaders in the scientific fields of forensic and chemical analysis to help solve crimes and keep Nebraskans safe.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol&nbsp;(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is proud to congratulate Pam Zilly on her retirement after 37 years of service to the people of Nebraska. Zilly has spent the last 16 years as Director of the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory.“Pam has been an incredible public servant for nearly four decades,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Her leadership and expertise have been vital to the success of the NSP Crime Lab, which has absolutely made an impact on public safety throughout our state.”Zilly began her career with NSP in 1987, rising through the ranks at the Crime Lab until her promotion to director in 2008. Since that time, the Crime Lab team designed and built a new facility, modernized numerous scientific testing procedures to assist in criminal investigations, and eliminated a backlog of thousands of previously unsubmitted sexual assault test kits.With Zilly’s retirement, NSP is proud to announce the promotion of Jason Linder as the next NSP Crime Laboratory Director. Linder has been serving with NSP since 2002, beginning his career as a Forensic Scientist in North Platte. He has served as the NSP Crime Lab Forensic Division Manager since 2012.“Jason’s experience and knowledge make him an excellent choice to lead our team of scientists at the Crime Lab,” said Colonel Bolduc. “As technology continues to advance, Jason and our entire team will continue to work to be leaders in the scientific fields of forensic and chemical analysis to help solve crimes and keep Nebraskans safe.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab Director Retires, New Director Named

&nbsp;(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is able to release additional information regarding Friday's shooting that occurred in Crete.

At approximately 4:33 p.m. Friday, Saline County 911 received multiple reports of an active shooter incident occurring in the 1200 block of Crestline Drive in Crete. Crete Police Officers and Saline County Deputies responded and arrived within a few minutes. As they approached the scene, officers could hear gunfire still occurring. They located several victims inside a home on Crestline Drive and identified that the gunfire was coming from a house across the street.

Officers and the first EMTs on scene evacuated the victims to safety so they could be transported for treatment. In total, there were seven gunshot victims. Six were initially identified and transported to Crete Area Medical Center. The seventh realized hours later that he had been struck and was transported to the hospital.

Out of respect for the request for privacy, NSP will not be releasing the names of the victims. There were four children injured in this shooting, ranging from ages 3 to 10. There were three adults injured, ranging from ages 22 to 43.

As of early Saturday afternoon, four patients have been treated and released from area hospitals. Three victims remain at a hospital receiving care. Two of the victims are at Children’s Hospital in Omaha and one remains at Bryan Health West Campus in Lincoln. All injuries at this point are believed to be non-life-threatening.

As the victims were being removed from the scene, additional responders including deputies and troopers organized a perimeter around the scene. The NSP SWAT Team was activated.

At approximately 6:40 p.m., the SWAT Team made entry into the home where the gunfire had originated, 1810 Parkland Street, and located the occupant deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The SWAT team located a shotgun near the suspect. The suspect has been identified as Billy Booth, 74, of Crete.

NSP investigators were then able to begin their investigation of the scene. Investigators located an additional firearm inside the residence, but investigators believe the shotgun was the only weapon used in the shooting. Preliminary investigation shows that all rounds fired by Booth came from inside his house.

There were approximately 15 people at the victims’ residence at the time of the shooting. Most of the victims were in the yard, but at least one victim was struck while inside the house on Crestline Drive.

The Nebraska State Patrol, Crete Police Department, and Saline County Sheriff would like to thank the fire and rescue teams from Crete, Wilber, Dorchester, Pleasant Dale, and SW Rural for their quick response as well as Crete Area Medical Center, Bryan Health, and Children’s Hospital for their treatment of the victims.

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol&nbsp;(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is able to release additional information regarding Friday's shooting that occurred in Crete.At approximately 4:33 p.m. Friday, Saline County 911 received multiple reports of an active shooter incident occurring in the 1200 block of Crestline Drive in Crete. Crete Police Officers and Saline County Deputies responded and arrived within a few minutes. As they approached the scene, officers could hear gunfire still occurring. They located several victims inside a home on Crestline Drive and identified that the gunfire was coming from a house across the street.Officers and the first EMTs on scene evacuated the victims to safety so they could be transported for treatment. In total, there were seven gunshot victims. Six were initially identified and transported to Crete Area Medical Center. The seventh realized hours later that he had been struck and was transported to the hospital.Out of respect for the request for privacy, NSP will not be releasing the names of the victims. There were four children injured in this shooting, ranging from ages 3 to 10. There were three adults injured, ranging from ages 22 to 43.As of early Saturday afternoon, four patients have been treated and released from area hospitals. Three victims remain at a hospital receiving care. Two of the victims are at Children’s Hospital in Omaha and one remains at Bryan Health West Campus in Lincoln. All injuries at this point are believed to be non-life-threatening.As the victims were being removed from the scene, additional responders including deputies and troopers organized a perimeter around the scene. The NSP SWAT Team was activated.At approximately 6:40 p.m., the SWAT Team made entry into the home where the gunfire had originated, 1810 Parkland Street, and located the occupant deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The SWAT team located a shotgun near the suspect. The suspect has been identified as Billy Booth, 74, of Crete.NSP investigators were then able to begin their investigation of the scene. Investigators located an additional firearm inside the residence, but investigators believe the shotgun was the only weapon used in the shooting. Preliminary investigation shows that all rounds fired by Booth came from inside his house.There were approximately 15 people at the victims’ residence at the time of the shooting. Most of the victims were in the yard, but at least one victim was struck while inside the house on Crestline Drive.The Nebraska State Patrol, Crete Police Department, and Saline County Sheriff would like to thank the fire and rescue teams from Crete, Wilber, Dorchester, Pleasant Dale, and SW Rural for their quick response as well as Crete Area Medical Center, Bryan Health, and Children’s Hospital for their treatment of the victims.The investigation remains ongoing.

7 injured in Friday's Shooting in Crete

Kearney, Neb. - Multiple area fire departments in Central Nebraska battled a house fire early Monday morning in Kearney.&nbsp;

The Buffalo County Sheriff's Department reported on Facebook around 3:30 am Monday morning about the fire and reported that all occupants in the home escaped without injuries. The fire occurred at a home in northwest Kearney.&nbsp;

The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department was assisted by Elm Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department, Amherst Volunteer Fire Department and the Gibbon Volunteer Fire Department.&nbsp;

***This is a developing story and will update when more information becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719840066963.jpeg" alt="Crews batting a house fire in Kearney (Courtesy of Buffalo County Sheriff)" />
 <figcaption>Crews batting a house fire in Kearney (Courtesy of Buffalo County Sheriff)</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostKearney, Neb. - Multiple area fire departments in Central Nebraska battled a house fire early Monday morning in Kearney.&nbsp;The Buffalo County Sheriff's Department reported on Facebook around 3:30 am Monday morning about the fire and reported that all occupants in the home escaped without injuries. The fire occurred at a home in northwest Kearney.&nbsp;The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department was assisted by Elm Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department, Amherst Volunteer Fire Department and the Gibbon Volunteer Fire Department.&nbsp;***This is a developing story and will update when more information becomes available.

Crews battle early morning house fire in Kearney

Office of U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senators&nbsp;Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jim Risch (R-ID),&nbsp;Ranking&nbsp;Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,&nbsp;recently&nbsp;introducedthe&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/06-20-24_israel_arms_sales_bill.pdf">Maintaining Our Ironclad Commitment to Israel’s Security Act</a>. The bill&nbsp;provides&nbsp;congressional oversight of proposed changes to arms sales to Israelfollowing the Biden administration’s pausing of an arms shipment in May.Senators&nbsp;Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Tim Scott (R-SC) are also co-sponsors.

“The Biden administration’s repeated wavering on the ‘ironclad commitment’ they claim to have with Israel is a clear case for stronger congressional oversight,”&nbsp;said Ricketts.&nbsp;“As Israel fights for its existence and survival, Congress must ensure the President follows through on the promises we’ve made to one of our most strategic allies.”

“The Biden Administration’s decision to unilaterally pause a shipment of weapons to Israel in May without any prior notification or consultation with Congress not only broke with procedure, but also sent a message to our allies and adversaries alike that the United States cannot be relied upon to follow through on its commitments,”&nbsp;said Risch. “This legislation rightfully reasserts Congress’ role in overseeing arms sales to Israel. I will continue to do everything in my power to support our ally in its time of need and hold the administration accountable for any missteps it takes in this regard.”

“The U.S. must stand firmly in support of its strongest ally in the Middle East, Israel. The Jewish State continues to face increased threats from Hamas and Hezbollah terrorists as well as from the Iranian regime and its proxies,”&nbsp;said Rubio.&nbsp;“While the Biden Administration has weakened our support of Israel, including pausing weapons deliveries authorized by Congress, it is crucial we are able to conduct proper oversight over the administration’s actions that further erode Israel’s ability to defend itself.”

“President Biden’s foreign policy has emboldened our adversaries and caused our allies to doubt us. Israel has every right to defend itself, and we should not be standing in their way,”&nbsp;said Scott. “This administration clearly needs to ensure that the will of Congress to support our greatest ally in the Middle East is not being undermined. Standing with Israel and ensuring they succeed in their effort to eliminate the terrorist threat posed by Hamas is the only path forward.”

Text of the legislation can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/06-20-24_israel_arms_sales_bill.pdf">here</a>.

Office of U.S. Senator Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senators&nbsp;Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jim Risch (R-ID),&nbsp;Ranking&nbsp;Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,&nbsp;recently&nbsp;introducedthe&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/06-20-24_israel_arms_sales_bill.pdf">Maintaining Our Ironclad Commitment to Israel’s Security Act</a>. The bill&nbsp;provides&nbsp;congressional oversight of proposed changes to arms sales to Israelfollowing the Biden administration’s pausing of an arms shipment in May.Senators&nbsp;Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Tim Scott (R-SC) are also co-sponsors.“The Biden administration’s repeated wavering on the ‘ironclad commitment’ they claim to have with Israel is a clear case for stronger congressional oversight,”&nbsp;said Ricketts.&nbsp;“As Israel fights for its existence and survival, Congress must ensure the President follows through on the promises we’ve made to one of our most strategic allies.”“The Biden Administration’s decision to unilaterally pause a shipment of weapons to Israel in May without any prior notification or consultation with Congress not only broke with procedure, but also sent a message to our allies and adversaries alike that the United States cannot be relied upon to follow through on its commitments,”&nbsp;said Risch. “This legislation rightfully reasserts Congress’ role in overseeing arms sales to Israel. I will continue to do everything in my power to support our ally in its time of need and hold the administration accountable for any missteps it takes in this regard.”“The U.S. must stand firmly in support of its strongest ally in the Middle East, Israel. The Jewish State continues to face increased threats from Hamas and Hezbollah terrorists as well as from the Iranian regime and its proxies,”&nbsp;said Rubio.&nbsp;“While the Biden Administration has weakened our support of Israel, including pausing weapons deliveries authorized by Congress, it is crucial we are able to conduct proper oversight over the administration’s actions that further erode Israel’s ability to defend itself.”“President Biden’s foreign policy has emboldened our adversaries and caused our allies to doubt us. Israel has every right to defend itself, and we should not be standing in their way,”&nbsp;said Scott. “This administration clearly needs to ensure that the will of Congress to support our greatest ally in the Middle East is not being undermined. Standing with Israel and ensuring they succeed in their effort to eliminate the terrorist threat posed by Hamas is the only path forward.”This legislation:<ul>
 <li>Expresses a sense of Congress that all previously negotiated and approved arms sales to Israel should proceed and all pauses should be lifted.</li><li>Requires the president to notify Congress at least 15 legislative days in advance of any action to pause, suspend, delay, or abrogate the delivery of defense articles and services to Israel.</li><li>The notification is required to include a policy justification for the action, impact on U.S. national security interests, and an assessment of whether the action adversely affects Israel’s qualitative military edge.</li><li>Provides Congress an opportunity following the notification to pass a Joint Resolution disapproving of the president’s actions, during which time the president may not further delay arms sales to Israel.</li>
 </ul>Text of the legislation can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/06-20-24_israel_arms_sales_bill.pdf">here</a>.

Ricketts, Risch Introduce Legislation to Provide Congressional Oversight of Arms Sales to Israel

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his constituent casework team has held Mobile Office Hours in all 93 Nebraska counties this year. The team will continue returning to counties throughout 2024.

“Our Mobile Office Hours program provides Nebraskans in all 93 counties a more accessible way to meet with our team,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “When the federal government fails to fulfill essential services, our constituent casework staff is here to help. I promised to ensure taxpayers would receive the kind of effective and responsive service they deserve from my team. Mobile Office Hours is one way we are fulfilling that commitment.”

At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts’ staff are on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from the federal bureaucracy in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them contact the correct officials.

Nebraskans interested in learning more about Mobile Office Hours or requesting a Mobile Office Hours event in their community can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/mobileofficehours/" target="_blank">ricketts.senate.gov/MobileOfficeHours</a>.

BACKGROUND ON RICKETTS’ CONSTITUENT SERVICES

In addition to meeting with Nebraskans on policy and legislative matters, Ricketts’ state offices also offer constituent services. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from a federal agency in a timely fashion, or if they feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve a problem or get information Nebraskans need.

Ricketts has staff specially trained and located in offices throughout the state to assist any individual or group with a concern, complaint, or question of eligibility or benefit as it relates to a federal agency. Ricketts staff can act as a liaison for Nebraskans that have an issue pending before a federal agency. While the office cannot guarantee a favorable outcome, staff will do their best to help Nebraskans receive a fair and timely response to their problem. Common issues include, but are not limited to, passport and visa assistance, IRS and tax return issues, military assistance, FEMA disaster relief, and benefits from Veterans Affairs, Social Security, and Medicare.

Nebraskans can receive assistance via phone and email, at Mobile Office Hour events, or at any of the main offices located in Scottsbluff, Kearney, Lincoln, and Omaha. Nebraskans can&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Office of U.S. Senator Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his constituent casework team has held Mobile Office Hours in all 93 Nebraska counties this year. The team will continue returning to counties throughout 2024.“Our Mobile Office Hours program provides Nebraskans in all 93 counties a more accessible way to meet with our team,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “When the federal government fails to fulfill essential services, our constituent casework staff is here to help. I promised to ensure taxpayers would receive the kind of effective and responsive service they deserve from my team. Mobile Office Hours is one way we are fulfilling that commitment.”At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts’ staff are on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from the federal bureaucracy in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them contact the correct officials.Nebraskans interested in learning more about Mobile Office Hours or requesting a Mobile Office Hours event in their community can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/mobileofficehours/" target="_blank">ricketts.senate.gov/MobileOfficeHours</a>.BACKGROUND ON RICKETTS’ CONSTITUENT SERVICESIn addition to meeting with Nebraskans on policy and legislative matters, Ricketts’ state offices also offer constituent services. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer from a federal agency in a timely fashion, or if they feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve a problem or get information Nebraskans need.Ricketts has staff specially trained and located in offices throughout the state to assist any individual or group with a concern, complaint, or question of eligibility or benefit as it relates to a federal agency. Ricketts staff can act as a liaison for Nebraskans that have an issue pending before a federal agency. While the office cannot guarantee a favorable outcome, staff will do their best to help Nebraskans receive a fair and timely response to their problem. Common issues include, but are not limited to, passport and visa assistance, IRS and tax return issues, military assistance, FEMA disaster relief, and benefits from Veterans Affairs, Social Security, and Medicare.Nebraskans can receive assistance via phone and email, at Mobile Office Hour events, or at any of the main offices located in Scottsbluff, Kearney, Lincoln, and Omaha. Nebraskans can&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Ricketts Celebrates Mobile Office Hour Events in all 93 Nebraska Counties in 2024

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/27/petition-signatures-turned-in-for-nebraska-paid-sick-leave-ballot-measure/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The 250,000 Nebraskans who work at least 30 hours a week but don’t have paid sick leave from their employers will likely get the chance to help secure the benefit at the ballot box.

Organizers of Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans announced Thursday that they were turning in 138,000 voter signatures aimed at putting a minimum level of sick leave into state law.

Jo Giles of Women’s Fund of Omaha, one of many groups helping with the petition drive, said they are confident the push has the 90,000 valid voter signatures required to reach the general election ballot.

The ballot initiative would require businesses with 20 or fewer employees to fund a minimum of five paid sick days a year for full-time employees. Bigger businesses would be required to fund seven days.

Full- and part-time employees would earn an hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, organizers said. They could use it to handle personal and family illnesses.

“It’s a process of earning that time and then being able to use it when you need it,” Giles said.

If approved, those changes would take effect in October 2025. Other state ballot initiatives are in the final stretch of gathering signatures, which are due at 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Supporters say the changes would help people in every industry, particularly those in factory, agricultural and service jobs, including manufacturing, restaurants, farm work and retail.&nbsp;

Rosa Pinto of the Heartland Workers Center, which advocates for worker rights and civic leadership, said no Nebraskan should have to choose between work and family or health.

She shared stories from a worker with diabetes who felt ill but couldn’t leave work for fear of being fired for missing work and others who had to leave their sick children home alone because of work.

“We deserve to fully recover before having to go back to work,” she said. “We deserve to take care of our loved ones without the pressure of suffering retaliation when we go back.”

Norberto Cazares Sanchez, a farm worker from near North Bend, said he drove two hours to attend the signature celebration in the basement of the Cornhusker Marriott in downtown Lincoln.

He said when you work 12 or 13 hours in the field, rest is sometimes hard to come by. He said as a single father, the flexibility would be helpful.&nbsp;

“I only have one kid of my own, but … my heart goes to everybody that has two or three,” Cazares Sanchez said.

Amelia Rosser, who owns Sheelytown Market, a small business in Omaha that sells plants and local artwork, said she is proud to support the effort to require paid sick leave.&nbsp;

She said she already offers sick time to her employees, as part of showing them that they and their families matter. She said some business owners won’t do that unless required.

“That is our responsibility to make sure that there’s a bare minimum requirement for everybody, and then to be able to go above and beyond that,” Rosser said.

Sue Martin of the state AFL-CIO union said too many employees feel pressured to keep working when sick. She said the change would help Nebraska businesses hire and retain workers.

Giles said it was frustrating to have to spend so much time and money on a workers rights issue the public supports but that the Legislature has failed to address.

“We’re glad that there are so many Nebraskans that rallied around this issue, that it’s a common sense issue,” she said. “Everyone’s faced a need to take paid sick time off.”

State lawmakers who have resisted requiring a minimum level of sick leave would have the option of changing a voter-approved law.&nbsp;

Becky Gould of Nebraska Appleseed said she hopes the Legislature would respect the will of the voters. Most observers expect the measure to pass if it reaches the ballot.

The group raised more than $424,000 to support the effort and still listed $310,000 in cash on hand at the end of May. Much of that backing came from nonprofit organizations.

No group has filed to raise funds to oppose the measure.

Alex Reuss, executive vice president of legislation and policy at the Nebraska State Chamber of Commerce, said most Nebraska businesses already offer paid personal time or sick leave to compete for talent.

She said, “That’s why we prefer a federal approach that incentivizes even more businesses to offer paid leave, rather than a patchwork of state laws with inconsistent mandates that make it harder for them to care for their most valuable assets: Their employees.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719584875612.jpeg" alt="Advocates to enshrine a minimum level of paid sick leave for Nebraska workers in state law celebrate the announcement they gathered more than 138,000 signatures in hopes to qualify for the November ballot Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Lincoln. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Advocates to enshrine a minimum level of paid sick leave for Nebraska workers in state law celebrate the announcement they gathered more than 138,000 signatures in hopes to qualify for the November ballot Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Lincoln. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/27/petition-signatures-turned-in-for-nebraska-paid-sick-leave-ballot-measure/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The 250,000 Nebraskans who work at least 30 hours a week but don’t have paid sick leave from their employers will likely get the chance to help secure the benefit at the ballot box.Organizers of Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans announced Thursday that they were turning in 138,000 voter signatures aimed at putting a minimum level of sick leave into state law.Jo Giles of Women’s Fund of Omaha, one of many groups helping with the petition drive, said they are confident the push has the 90,000 valid voter signatures required to reach the general election ballot.<h2>How the change would work</h2>The ballot initiative would require businesses with 20 or fewer employees to fund a minimum of five paid sick days a year for full-time employees. Bigger businesses would be required to fund seven days.Full- and part-time employees would earn an hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, organizers said. They could use it to handle personal and family illnesses.“It’s a process of earning that time and then being able to use it when you need it,” Giles said.If approved, those changes would take effect in October 2025. Other state ballot initiatives are in the final stretch of gathering signatures, which are due at 5 p.m. Wednesday.<h2>Who would be impacted</h2>Supporters say the changes would help people in every industry, particularly those in factory, agricultural and service jobs, including manufacturing, restaurants, farm work and retail.&nbsp;Rosa Pinto of the Heartland Workers Center, which advocates for worker rights and civic leadership, said no Nebraskan should have to choose between work and family or health.She shared stories from a worker with diabetes who felt ill but couldn’t leave work for fear of being fired for missing work and others who had to leave their sick children home alone because of work.“We deserve to fully recover before having to go back to work,” she said. “We deserve to take care of our loved ones without the pressure of suffering retaliation when we go back.”Norberto Cazares Sanchez, a farm worker from near North Bend, said he drove two hours to attend the signature celebration in the basement of the Cornhusker Marriott in downtown Lincoln.He said when you work 12 or 13 hours in the field, rest is sometimes hard to come by. He said as a single father, the flexibility would be helpful.&nbsp;“I only have one kid of my own, but … my heart goes to everybody that has two or three,” Cazares Sanchez said.<h2>Some businesses back change</h2>Amelia Rosser, who owns Sheelytown Market, a small business in Omaha that sells plants and local artwork, said she is proud to support the effort to require paid sick leave.&nbsp;She said she already offers sick time to her employees, as part of showing them that they and their families matter. She said some business owners won’t do that unless required.“That is our responsibility to make sure that there’s a bare minimum requirement for everybody, and then to be able to go above and beyond that,” Rosser said.Sue Martin of the state AFL-CIO union said too many employees feel pressured to keep working when sick. She said the change would help Nebraska businesses hire and retain workers.Giles said it was frustrating to have to spend so much time and money on a workers rights issue the public supports but that the Legislature has failed to address.“We’re glad that there are so many Nebraskans that rallied around this issue, that it’s a common sense issue,” she said. “Everyone’s faced a need to take paid sick time off.”<h2>Lawmakers could reverse any change</h2>State lawmakers who have resisted requiring a minimum level of sick leave would have the option of changing a voter-approved law.&nbsp;Becky Gould of Nebraska Appleseed said she hopes the Legislature would respect the will of the voters. Most observers expect the measure to pass if it reaches the ballot.The group raised more than $424,000 to support the effort and still listed $310,000 in cash on hand at the end of May. Much of that backing came from nonprofit organizations.No group has filed to raise funds to oppose the measure.Alex Reuss, executive vice president of legislation and policy at the Nebraska State Chamber of Commerce, said most Nebraska businesses already offer paid personal time or sick leave to compete for talent.She said, “That’s why we prefer a federal approach that incentivizes even more businesses to offer paid leave, rather than a patchwork of state laws with inconsistent mandates that make it harder for them to care for their most valuable assets: Their employees.”

Petition signatures turned in for Nebraska paid sick leave ballot measure 

AccuWeather Global Weather Center –&nbsp;AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists alerted AccuWeather business customers and Premium+ users in the Whitman, Nebraska area of the imminent tornado 12 minutes before a destructive tornado impacted the community Tuesday evening. &nbsp;&nbsp;A National Weather Service tornado warning was not issued until roughly 4 minutes after the tornado had hit the community of Whitman. &nbsp;

AccuWeather expert meteorologists have been closely monitoring the threat of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in Nebraska this month;&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On June 7, AccuWeather expert meteorologists&nbsp;<a href="https://corporate.accuweather.com/newsroom/severe-weather-advisories/severe-weather-advisory-june-7-2024/">accurately predicted a major pattern shift</a>&nbsp;that would increase the risk of destructive thunderstorms and tornadoes across much of Nebraska and the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather expert meteorologists issued forecasts on Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://corporate.accuweather.com/newsroom/severe-weather-advisories/severe-weather-advisory-june-24-2024/">highlighting the threat of severe thunderstorms</a>&nbsp;across Nebraska Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists were specifically concerned about the development of rapidly developing severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in western Nebraska Tuesday evening. Our team at AccuWeather’s Severe Weather Center observed intensifying rotation and other radar signatures developing near Whitman. &nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Based on the predefined criteria AccuWeather has established, focused on&nbsp;preserving life and preventing injuries from rapidly developing tornadoes,&nbsp;AccuWeather&nbsp;meteorologists issued a Tornado Warning to AccuWeather business customers in the area requesting such alerts at 7:44 pm MDT. &nbsp;At the same time, an ‘AccuWeather Alert - Dangerous Weather Imminent: Tornado’ notification was issued, which are delivered within the Premium+ feature of the AccuWeather app.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for the Whitman area at 7:49pm MDT.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists detected the first radar signature of potential tornado debris at 7:52pm MDT. &nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The tornado impacted the Whitman area at approximately 7:56pm MDT, according to radar data.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning at 8pm MDT, roughly four minutes after the tornado impacted Whitman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter says the team of Storm Warning Meteorologists at AccuWeather’s Severe Weather Center in Wichita, Kansas are committed to monitoring severe weather threats and issuing timely, life-saving alerts, even in situations when government sources do not issue warnings to the public. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists believed that the thunderstorm had the potential to produce a tornado at any moment. When minutes matter, advance notice is critical, especially since this episode occurred around sunset,” said Porter. “Tornadoes at sunset into the overnight hours are more dangerous because many people are getting ready to go to bed or are sleeping and may not be as aware of what is going on around them, and therefore need extra time to move to safe shelter. Tornadoes that happen at night are two times more fatal than tornadoes that occur during the day.”&nbsp;

The warning issued by AccuWeather is the only known source to provide valuable advance notice of 12 minutes, providing people with time to prepare and take shelter before the tornado impacted Whitman. &nbsp;

The tornado resulted in significant damage to homes and businesses in the area. At least one injury was reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719582206104.jpeg" alt="EF-3 Tornado outside of Whitman, NE (Courtesy of Sheriff Rath)" />
 <figcaption>EF-3 Tornado outside of Whitman, NE (Courtesy of Sheriff Rath)</figcaption>
 </figure>Bill WadellAccuWeatherAccuWeather Global Weather Center –&nbsp;AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists alerted AccuWeather business customers and Premium+ users in the Whitman, Nebraska area of the imminent tornado 12 minutes before a destructive tornado impacted the community Tuesday evening. &nbsp;&nbsp;A National Weather Service tornado warning was not issued until roughly 4 minutes after the tornado had hit the community of Whitman. &nbsp;AccuWeather expert meteorologists have been closely monitoring the threat of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in Nebraska this month;&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On June 7, AccuWeather expert meteorologists&nbsp;<a href="https://corporate.accuweather.com/newsroom/severe-weather-advisories/severe-weather-advisory-june-7-2024/">accurately predicted a major pattern shift</a>&nbsp;that would increase the risk of destructive thunderstorms and tornadoes across much of Nebraska and the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather expert meteorologists issued forecasts on Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://corporate.accuweather.com/newsroom/severe-weather-advisories/severe-weather-advisory-june-24-2024/">highlighting the threat of severe thunderstorms</a>&nbsp;across Nebraska Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists were specifically concerned about the development of rapidly developing severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in western Nebraska Tuesday evening. Our team at AccuWeather’s Severe Weather Center observed intensifying rotation and other radar signatures developing near Whitman. &nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Based on the predefined criteria AccuWeather has established, focused on&nbsp;preserving life and preventing injuries from rapidly developing tornadoes,&nbsp;AccuWeather&nbsp;meteorologists issued a Tornado Warning to AccuWeather business customers in the area requesting such alerts at 7:44 pm MDT. &nbsp;At the same time, an ‘AccuWeather Alert - Dangerous Weather Imminent: Tornado’ notification was issued, which are delivered within the Premium+ feature of the AccuWeather app.&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for the Whitman area at 7:49pm MDT.&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists detected the first radar signature of potential tornado debris at 7:52pm MDT. &nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The tornado impacted the Whitman area at approximately 7:56pm MDT, according to radar data.&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning at 8pm MDT, roughly four minutes after the tornado impacted Whitman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter says the team of Storm Warning Meteorologists at AccuWeather’s Severe Weather Center in Wichita, Kansas are committed to monitoring severe weather threats and issuing timely, life-saving alerts, even in situations when government sources do not issue warnings to the public. &nbsp;&nbsp;“AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologists believed that the thunderstorm had the potential to produce a tornado at any moment. When minutes matter, advance notice is critical, especially since this episode occurred around sunset,” said Porter. “Tornadoes at sunset into the overnight hours are more dangerous because many people are getting ready to go to bed or are sleeping and may not be as aware of what is going on around them, and therefore need extra time to move to safe shelter. Tornadoes that happen at night are two times more fatal than tornadoes that occur during the day.”&nbsp;The warning issued by AccuWeather is the only known source to provide valuable advance notice of 12 minutes, providing people with time to prepare and take shelter before the tornado impacted Whitman. &nbsp;The tornado resulted in significant damage to homes and businesses in the area. At least one injury was reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AccuWeather meteorologists issued life-saving tornado warning 12 minutes before a tornado hit Whitman, Nebraska 

Lincoln, NE - Dennis Winfrey of Hastings is the third winner of a 2024 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew truck in the 29th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game.

Winfrey purchased his winning Truck$ &amp; Buck$ ticket at Coach’s Corner at 3212 Osborne Drive E in Hastings. He was presented with his new truck at Coach’s Corner on Thursday, May 27 by Nebraska Lottery officials.

He’d been considering buying a new truck sometime in the near future, so Winfrey decided to give Truck$ &amp; Buck$ a go.

“Somebody’s gotta win it,” he said.

Winfrey lives nearby and whenever he grabbed something at Coach’s Corner, he’d usually grab a Truck$ &amp; Buck$ ticket.

In all, Winfrey estimated he’d only bought about 50 tickets total, about half of which won at least a small prize.

“I figure I’ve probably got $20 in this truck,” he said.

The 29th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s popular $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game features the 2024 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew truck as its top prize. Players have the opportunity to win one of eight Ford F-150 trucks as well as thousands of cash prizes. The truck prize is valued at $81,500, which includes $976 for costs associated with ownership and state and federal withholding paid by the Nebraska Lottery of $4,075 and $19,560, respectively. The odds of winning the top prize in Truck$ &amp; Buck$ are 1 in 336,000, while the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 3.69.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719581893428.jpeg" alt="Dennis Winfrey of Hastings won the third Ford F-150 truck prize in the 2024 edition of the Nebraska Lottery's $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game. He was presented with his new truck at an event at Coach’s Corner, 3212 Osborne Drive E in Hastings on June 27, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Dennis Winfrey of Hastings won the third Ford F-150 truck prize in the 2024 edition of the Nebraska Lottery's $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game. He was presented with his new truck at an event at Coach’s Corner, 3212 Osborne Drive E in Hastings on June 27, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>Neil WatsonNebraska LotteryLincoln, NE - Dennis Winfrey of Hastings is the third winner of a 2024 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew truck in the 29th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game.Winfrey purchased his winning Truck$ &amp; Buck$ ticket at Coach’s Corner at 3212 Osborne Drive E in Hastings. He was presented with his new truck at Coach’s Corner on Thursday, May 27 by Nebraska Lottery officials.He’d been considering buying a new truck sometime in the near future, so Winfrey decided to give Truck$ &amp; Buck$ a go.“Somebody’s gotta win it,” he said.Winfrey lives nearby and whenever he grabbed something at Coach’s Corner, he’d usually grab a Truck$ &amp; Buck$ ticket.In all, Winfrey estimated he’d only bought about 50 tickets total, about half of which won at least a small prize.“I figure I’ve probably got $20 in this truck,” he said.The 29th edition of the Nebraska Lottery’s popular $2 Truck$ &amp; Buck$ Scratch game features the 2024 Ford F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCrew truck as its top prize. Players have the opportunity to win one of eight Ford F-150 trucks as well as thousands of cash prizes. The truck prize is valued at $81,500, which includes $976 for costs associated with ownership and state and federal withholding paid by the Nebraska Lottery of $4,075 and $19,560, respectively. The odds of winning the top prize in Truck$ &amp; Buck$ are 1 in 336,000, while the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 3.69.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $978 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Hastings Man Claims Third Truck$ & Buck$ F150

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump pitched to undecided voters Thursday night during the first debate of the presidential campaign — trading insults over their policy differences, immigration and who represents a threat to democracy.

During the debate from CNN’s headquarters in Atlanta, the two men argued over who can do better for Americans during the next four years on a broad swath of issues, ranging from the economy to climate change to foreign policy. Each repeatedly accused the other of lying.

Biden early in the debate spoke softly at several points, coughed and gave several somewhat confusing answers. At one point, Biden appeared to lose his train of thought and ended an answer with the statement that “we finally beat Medicare.”

The two disagreed sharply over access to reproductive rights, including abortion, with Trump arguing Democrats’ position is “radical” and Biden saying that leaving decisions up to the states has been “terrible” for women.

Biden, 81, and Trump, 78, did not shake hands at the beginning, a break from past debates.

Near the end of the debate, Trump said political violence was “totally unacceptable,” though he went on to downplay the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, defending the conduct of his mob of supporters.

Trump initially did not directly answer a question about whether he would accept the results of the election if he lost. When pressed by moderator Dana Bash, Trump conditioned his answer.

Even with rules meant to minimize crosstalk, the debate — moderated by Bash, anchor and chief political correspondent, and Jake Tapper, anchor and chief Washington correspondent — saw many moments of acrimony.

While Trump had harsh words about Biden’s border policy and Biden blasted his predecessor for appointing Supreme Court justices who overturned the constitutional right to an abortion, they saved their harshest criticism for the other’s personal conduct.

Referring to reports that, as president, Trump said veterans killed in action in France during World War II were “suckers and losers,” Biden, invoked his son, Beau, who was a National Guard veteran and later died of brain cancer.

“My son was not a loser and was not a sucker,” Biden told his predecessor, scowling. “You’re the sucker. You’re the loser.”

Trump denied he ever made the remark, first reported in The Atlantic and confirmed in other reports.

Biden at several times attacked Trump’s credibility and truthfulness, saying after one answer, “Every single thing he said is a lie.”

“I never heard so much malarkey in my whole life,” he said in response to another of Trump’s answers.

Trump brought up the conviction of Biden’s son, Hunter, on federal gun charges this year. And he said that Joe Biden could face prosecution for his performance on border security.

Trump and his legal team argued in front of the Supreme Court in April that presidents have absolute immunity from criminal prosecution.

Thursday’s event was the first presidential debate where one participant was a convicted felon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719543043285.png" alt="Image from the CNN video of the debate via CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image from the CNN video of the debate via CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump pitched to undecided voters Thursday night during the first debate of the presidential campaign — trading insults over their policy differences, immigration and who represents a threat to democracy.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CLIP: President Biden and former President Trump respond to question on abortion during CNN Presidential Debate. <a href="https://t.co/xsJ1ATvlTP">pic.twitter.com/xsJ1ATvlTP</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806500194055311622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump: &quot;I really don&#39;t know what he said at the end of that sentence. I don&#39;t think he knows what he said either.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/V106E98OSy">pic.twitter.com/V106E98OSy</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806500264200851728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Biden on January 6th: &quot;He didn&#39;t do a damn thing.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/cVb3vIaD5r">pic.twitter.com/cVb3vIaD5r</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806506398454288835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump: &quot;On January 6th we had a great border...On January 6th we were energy independent...On January 6th we had the lowest taxes ever. We had the lowest regulations ever...On January 6th we were respected all over the world...and then he comes in and we&#39;re now laughed at...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/mWxQEAwyFL">pic.twitter.com/mWxQEAwyFL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806506179574579401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CLIP: CNN Presidential Debate segment on federal convictions and the right to go after political opponents. President Biden: &quot;You have the morals of an alley cat.&quot; Former President Trump: &quot;I didn&#39;t have sex with a porn star.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Gt3j4CzNXY">pic.twitter.com/Gt3j4CzNXY</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806509416331497560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fmr President Trump: &quot;He is the worst president...he&#39;s destroyed our country...If he wins this election our country doesn&#39;t have a chance.&quot; President Biden: &quot;We are the most admired country in the world. We are the United States of America. There&#39;s nothing beyond our capacity.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/osHgAAdEx2">pic.twitter.com/osHgAAdEx2</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806513139694895174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump on his age: &quot;Well, I took two tests, cognitive tests. I aced them. Both of them as you know. We made it public. He took none. I&#39;d like to see him take one. Just one...I just won two club championships, not even senior...he can&#39;t hit a ball 50 yards.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/j60qKGNe2h">pic.twitter.com/j60qKGNe2h</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806516579305214145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CLIP: CNN Presidential Debate segment on federal convictions and the right to go after political opponents. President Biden: &quot;You have the morals of an alley cat.&quot; Former President Trump: &quot;I didn&#39;t have sex with a porn star.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Gt3j4CzNXY">pic.twitter.com/Gt3j4CzNXY</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806509416331497560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump on if he&#39;ll accept the results of the presidential election and say that political violence is unacceptable: &quot;I shouldn&#39;t have to say that, but of course I&#39;ll believe that. It&#39;s totally unacceptable.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Jxy3OHlnZW">pic.twitter.com/Jxy3OHlnZW</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1806517240168325546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>During the debate from CNN’s headquarters in Atlanta, the two men argued over who can do better for Americans during the next four years on a broad swath of issues, ranging from the economy to climate change to foreign policy. Each repeatedly accused the other of lying.Biden early in the debate spoke softly at several points, coughed and gave several somewhat confusing answers. At one point, Biden appeared to lose his train of thought and ended an answer with the statement that “we finally beat Medicare.”The two disagreed sharply over access to reproductive rights, including abortion, with Trump arguing Democrats’ position is “radical” and Biden saying that leaving decisions up to the states has been “terrible” for women.Biden, 81, and Trump, 78, did not shake hands at the beginning, a break from past debates.Near the end of the debate, Trump said political violence was “totally unacceptable,” though he went on to downplay the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, defending the conduct of his mob of supporters.Trump initially did not directly answer a question about whether he would accept the results of the election if he lost. When pressed by moderator Dana Bash, Trump conditioned his answer.<h2>Jabs over personal conduct</h2>Even with rules meant to minimize crosstalk, the debate — moderated by Bash, anchor and chief political correspondent, and Jake Tapper, anchor and chief Washington correspondent — saw many moments of acrimony.While Trump had harsh words about Biden’s border policy and Biden blasted his predecessor for appointing Supreme Court justices who overturned the constitutional right to an abortion, they saved their harshest criticism for the other’s personal conduct.Referring to reports that, as president, Trump said veterans killed in action in France during World War II were “suckers and losers,” Biden, invoked his son, Beau, who was a National Guard veteran and later died of brain cancer.“My son was not a loser and was not a sucker,” Biden told his predecessor, scowling. “You’re the sucker. You’re the loser.”Trump denied he ever made the remark, first reported in The Atlantic and confirmed in other reports.Biden at several times attacked Trump’s credibility and truthfulness, saying after one answer, “Every single thing he said is a lie.”“I never heard so much malarkey in my whole life,” he said in response to another of Trump’s answers.Trump brought up the conviction of Biden’s son, Hunter, on federal gun charges this year. And he said that Joe Biden could face prosecution for his performance on border security.Trump and his legal team argued in front of the Supreme Court in April that presidents have absolute immunity from criminal prosecution.<h2>Trump’s conviction</h2>Thursday’s event was the first presidential debate where one participant was a convicted felon.A New York state jury in May found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records to cover up hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels for an affair she testified they had that Trump didn’t want to harm his 2016 election prospects.Trump has denied the affair and it hasn’t affected his support within the GOP, though his sentencing July 11 could affect his campaign strategy.Trump rejected his criminal conviction during the debate and reiterated his stance that he didn’t have a sexual relationship with an adult film star.“I didn’t have sex with a porn star,” Trump said, marking the first time such words, or anything near them, have been uttered during a presidential debate.“I did nothing wrong, we have a system that was rigged and disgusting,” Trump said. “I did nothing wrong.”Trump also responded to the question by referring to Hunter Biden.“When he talks about a convicted felon, his son is a convicted felon,” Trump said.<h2>Jan. 6 disagreement</h2>The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to release a ruling within days in another trial involving Trump, this time on whether presidents enjoy complete immunity from criminal prosecution for their actions while in office.The justices’ decision will determine whether a federal trial against Trump for election interference stemming from his actions on Jan. 6, 2021 can proceed.During the debate, Trump said that “on January 6 we were respected all over the world,” but that changed after Biden took office.Trump seemed to imply that the people who stormed the Capitol building were “innocent” and “patriotic,” saying that “you ought to be ashamed of yourself” for those people being in prison.Biden said that Trump encouraged the “folks” who attacked the U.S. Capitol building and U.S. Capitol Police officers.“If they’re convicted, he says he wants to commute their sentences,” Biden said, criticizing Trump’s behavior that day. “These people should be in jail. They should be the ones held accountable.”Biden rejected the idea that the people who attacked the police and disrupted the electoral certification were patriots.<h2>Divide on abortion rights</h2>Reproductive rights — including access to abortion — sharply divided Biden and Trump, who sparred over which political party’s stance is better.Trump said that he agreed with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision earlier this month to leave access to mifepristone, one of two pharmaceuticals used in medication abortion, in place. And he said he wouldn’t seek to limit access if elected president in November.“I agree with their decision to have done that, and I will not block it,” Trump said, adding that the Supreme Court’s earlier decision to overturn the constitutional right to an abortion was a good thing.“We brought it back to the states and the country is now coming together on this issue,” Trump said. “It’s been a great thing.”Trump said he supports exceptions for rape, incest or the life of the woman.Biden rejected Trump’s classification that Democrats are “radical” on abortion policy and said he supports reinstating the protections that existed under Roe v. Wade.“It’s been a terrible thing,” Biden said of leaving decisions about abortion access up to state lawmakers, comparing it to leaving civil rights decisions up to the states.Trump said during an interview with Time magazine released in April that his campaign was on the brink of releasing a policy regarding mifepristone, one of two pharmaceuticals used in medication abortion. The campaign has yet to release that policy.Trump suggested that he would be okay with states limiting or barring access to contraception during a May interview with a Pittsburgh TV news station. But he quickly walked back those comments in a social media post.The Heritage Foundation, a conservative-leaning think tank, has suggested that another Trump administration could block the mailing of mifepristone by enforcing the Comstock Act.The group included the proposal along with dozens of others in Project 2025, its 920-page blueprint for a second Trump administration.The 1873 anti-obscenity law hasn’t been enforced in decades and is referred to as a “zombie law” by reproductive rights organizations, but it is still technically a law.A future Republican attorney general seeking to enforce the law to block the mailing of mifepristone would likely see the law challenged in court, likely working its way up to the Supreme Court.Mifepristone is one of two pharmaceuticals used in medication abortions, which are approved for up to 10 weeks gestation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The two-drug regimen accounts for about 63% of all abortions within the United States, according to the Guttmacher Institute.<h2>First of two debates</h2>The two presidential debates this year are a departure from past years, with both candidates ditching the proposed schedule from the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates.Biden and Trump later agreed to two debates, the one held Thursday by CNN and another one on Sept. 10 that will be hosted by ABC News.CNN opted to hold its debate at its studios in Atlanta, Georgia, without an audience. Thursday night’s debate was also earlier than any other presidential debates, which have traditionally begun in September or October.The television news network created frustration ahead of the debate with the White House Correspondents Association when it decided to keep the pool, the group of journalists that travel everywhere with the president, out of the room.Kelly O’Donnell, president of the WHCA, released a statement Thursday afternoon that the organization was “deeply concerned that CNN has rejected our repeated requests to include the White House travel pool inside the studio.”“The pool is there for the ‘what ifs?’ in a world where the unexpected does happen,” wrote O’Donnell, who is also the senior White House correspondent for NBC News. “A pool reporter is present to provide context and insight by direct observation and not through the lens of the television production.”CNN’s rules also said that neither Biden nor Trump was allowed to bring props or pre-written notes into the debate area.Each stood behind “a uniform podium” and was not allowed to interact with campaign staff during the two commercial breaks.Biden was scheduled to travel with first lady Jill Biden to Raleigh, North Carolina, immediately after the debate wrapped. They’re set to participate in campaign events on Friday morning before traveling to New York later in the day.The Bidens are then expected to travel to Red Bank, New Jersey, on Saturday for more campaigning before heading back to Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland.Trump will attend a campaign rally Friday afternoon in Chesapeake, Virginia. In a release announcing the event, Trump criticized Biden on inflation, crime and drug addiction, and immigration.