BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden will pardon U.S. military veterans who were discharged or convicted under military law for consensual same-sex relations, the administration announced Wednesday.

The White House could not provide an exact number of veterans who will be pardoned, but the administration estimates thousands were convicted over several decades and may be eligible.

The convictions were enforced under a military law that prohibited certain types of sex from May 1951 to December 2013.

When asked why Biden chose now to pardon the veterans, senior administration officials told reporters on a call Tuesday that Biden is “committed to doing everything he can to ensure that the culture of the armed forces reflect the values that make us an exceptional nation and to maintaining the finest fighting force in the world.”

The officials continued that Biden is “taking this historic step to ensure that we live up to our sacred obligation to care for all service members, veterans and their families.”

Biden said in a statement Wednesday that he is “righting an historic wrong by using my clemency authority to pardon many former service members who were convicted simply for being themselves.”

“Our Nation’s service members stand on the frontlines of freedom, and risk their lives in order to defend our country,” Biden said in the written statement.

“Despite their courage and great sacrifice, thousands of LGBTQI+ service members were forced out of the military because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Some of these patriotic Americans were subject to court-martial, and have carried the burden of this great injustice for decades.”

Administration officials said guidance will be posted on the Department of Defense website for veterans to apply for proof they are eligible for pardon under the proclamation.

Veterans can then use the certificate of proof to apply to their respective military branch for a discharge upgrade.

Biden’s Wednesday proclamation effectuates the pardons for any veterans, alive or deceased, who were discharged or convicted in military court under&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sapr.mil/public/docs/ucmj/UCMJ_Article125_Sodomy.pdf" target="_blank">Article 125</a>&nbsp;of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for consensual sexual relationships.

While the law prohibited forceful sex acts with minors and animals, Article 125 also banned “unnatural carnal copulation” — defined as oral or anal sex — with another person of the same or opposite sex.

The military code was updated in 2013 to reflect that only forceful, not consensual, sexual acts could be penalized.

Administration officials acknowledged that Article 125 is not the only military law that targeted LGBTQ+ service members.

Senior administration officials told reporters that while the proclamation is narrowly focused on convictions under Article 125, the Department of Justice has been instructed to flag any other clemency applications for veterans penalized for sexual orientation or gender identity under other military statutes.

The U.S. military has a decades-long history of anti-LGBTQ+ policies. The armed forces outright banned gay and lesbian service members during World War II.

In 1993, President Bill Clinton set a “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, essentially allowing LGBTQ+ members to serve in the military, so long as they didn’t make their sexual orientation public.

The policy was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/house-bill/2965?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22H.R.+2965%22%7D&amp;s=6&amp;r=3" target="_blank">repealed</a>&nbsp;under President Barack Obama.

Days after his inauguration, Biden issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/25/executive-order-on-enabling-all-qualified-americans-to-serve-their-country-in-uniform/" target="_blank">executive order</a>&nbsp;overturning a ban on transgender service members.

The Constitution&nbsp;<a href="https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R46179" target="_blank">empowers</a>&nbsp;the president with several ways to forgive crimes against the United States. The president can fully pardon, or lift, punishments without qualification for individuals or groups of people; commute, or reduce, an offender’s sentence; or issue a reprieve, basically delaying an offender’s sentence.

Clemency applications are processed through the Justice Department’s Office of the Pardon Attorney.

Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/pardon/presidential-proclamation-marijuana-possession#:~:text=On%20October%206%2C%202022%2C%20President%20Biden%20announced%20a%20full%2C,people%20with%20those%20prior%20offenses." target="_blank">issued</a>&nbsp;sweeping pardons in October 2022 and December 2023 for marijuana offenses.

The Justice Department posts clemency statistics for each presidential administration dating back to William McKinley at&nbsp;<a href="https://justice.gov/pardon/clemency-statistics" target="_blank">justice.gov/pardon/clemency-statistics</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719435671887.png" alt=" Sailors decorate the mess decks in observance of Pride month aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean on June 16, 2022 (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II)." />
 <figcaption> Sailors decorate the mess decks in observance of Pride month aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean on June 16, 2022 (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden will pardon U.S. military veterans who were discharged or convicted under military law for consensual same-sex relations, the administration announced Wednesday.The White House could not provide an exact number of veterans who will be pardoned, but the administration estimates thousands were convicted over several decades and may be eligible.The convictions were enforced under a military law that prohibited certain types of sex from May 1951 to December 2013.When asked why Biden chose now to pardon the veterans, senior administration officials told reporters on a call Tuesday that Biden is “committed to doing everything he can to ensure that the culture of the armed forces reflect the values that make us an exceptional nation and to maintaining the finest fighting force in the world.”The officials continued that Biden is “taking this historic step to ensure that we live up to our sacred obligation to care for all service members, veterans and their families.”Biden said in a statement Wednesday that he is “righting an historic wrong by using my clemency authority to pardon many former service members who were convicted simply for being themselves.”“Our Nation’s service members stand on the frontlines of freedom, and risk their lives in order to defend our country,” Biden said in the written statement.“Despite their courage and great sacrifice, thousands of LGBTQI+ service members were forced out of the military because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Some of these patriotic Americans were subject to court-martial, and have carried the burden of this great injustice for decades.”Administration officials said guidance will be posted on the Department of Defense website for veterans to apply for proof they are eligible for pardon under the proclamation.Veterans can then use the certificate of proof to apply to their respective military branch for a discharge upgrade.<h2>Military law and consensual sex</h2>Biden’s Wednesday proclamation effectuates the pardons for any veterans, alive or deceased, who were discharged or convicted in military court under&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sapr.mil/public/docs/ucmj/UCMJ_Article125_Sodomy.pdf" target="_blank">Article 125</a>&nbsp;of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for consensual sexual relationships.While the law prohibited forceful sex acts with minors and animals, Article 125 also banned “unnatural carnal copulation” — defined as oral or anal sex — with another person of the same or opposite sex.The military code was updated in 2013 to reflect that only forceful, not consensual, sexual acts could be penalized.Administration officials acknowledged that Article 125 is not the only military law that targeted LGBTQ+ service members.Senior administration officials told reporters that while the proclamation is narrowly focused on convictions under Article 125, the Department of Justice has been instructed to flag any other clemency applications for veterans penalized for sexual orientation or gender identity under other military statutes.The U.S. military has a decades-long history of anti-LGBTQ+ policies. The armed forces outright banned gay and lesbian service members during World War II.In 1993, President Bill Clinton set a “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, essentially allowing LGBTQ+ members to serve in the military, so long as they didn’t make their sexual orientation public.The policy was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/house-bill/2965?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22H.R.+2965%22%7D&amp;s=6&amp;r=3" target="_blank">repealed</a>&nbsp;under President Barack Obama.Days after his inauguration, Biden issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/25/executive-order-on-enabling-all-qualified-americans-to-serve-their-country-in-uniform/" target="_blank">executive order</a>&nbsp;overturning a ban on transgender service members.<h2>Pardon power</h2>The Constitution&nbsp;<a href="https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R46179" target="_blank">empowers</a>&nbsp;the president with several ways to forgive crimes against the United States. The president can fully pardon, or lift, punishments without qualification for individuals or groups of people; commute, or reduce, an offender’s sentence; or issue a reprieve, basically delaying an offender’s sentence.Clemency applications are processed through the Justice Department’s Office of the Pardon Attorney.Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/pardon/presidential-proclamation-marijuana-possession#:~:text=On%20October%206%2C%202022%2C%20President%20Biden%20announced%20a%20full%2C,people%20with%20those%20prior%20offenses." target="_blank">issued</a>&nbsp;sweeping pardons in October 2022 and December 2023 for marijuana offenses.The Justice Department posts clemency statistics for each presidential administration dating back to William McKinley at&nbsp;<a href="https://justice.gov/pardon/clemency-statistics" target="_blank">justice.gov/pardon/clemency-statistics</a>.

Biden pardons vets discharged for same-sex relationships

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is seeking the public’s assistance with obtaining&nbsp; identifying information regarding an unknown male who may have critical information&nbsp; pertaining to the identity of a child victim in an ongoing sexual exploitation investigation.&nbsp; Photographs and an informational poster depicting the unknown individual, known only as John&nbsp; Doe 48, are being disseminated to the public and can be found online at the FBI website at&nbsp; https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/ecap/unknown-individual---john-doe-48.&nbsp;

Initial video of the unidentified male, John Doe 48, was first recorded by the National&nbsp; Center for Missing and Exploited Children in December of 2023. The EXIF data embedded&nbsp; within the video file indicated that the file was produced in October of 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;John Doe 48 is described as a White male between the ages of 45 and 65 years old, with&nbsp; dark hair, and a gray beard. He has a tattoo on each of his forearms. He is seen in the back of a&nbsp; 2018-2019 Nissan NV Cargo Van wearing a blue t-shirt and a dark-colored hat. He is heard&nbsp; speaking English in the video.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone with information to provide should submit a tip online at https://tips.fbi.gov/, or&nbsp; call the FBI’s toll-free tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The public is reminded no&nbsp; charges have been filed in this case and the pictured individual is presumed innocent unless and&nbsp; until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;

This individual is being sought as part of the FBI’s Operation Rescue Me and Endangered&nbsp; Child Alert Program (ECAP) initiatives. Operation Rescue Me focuses on utilizing clues&nbsp; obtained through in-depth image analysis to identify the child victims depicted in child&nbsp; exploitation material, while ECAP seeks national and international media exposure of unknown&nbsp; adults (referred to as John/Jane Does) who visibly display their faces and/or other distinguishing characteristics in association with child pornography images.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719417702926.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FBI Omaha Field OfficeThe Federal Bureau of Investigation is seeking the public’s assistance with obtaining&nbsp; identifying information regarding an unknown male who may have critical information&nbsp; pertaining to the identity of a child victim in an ongoing sexual exploitation investigation.&nbsp; Photographs and an informational poster depicting the unknown individual, known only as John&nbsp; Doe 48, are being disseminated to the public and can be found online at the FBI website at&nbsp; https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/ecap/unknown-individual---john-doe-48.&nbsp;Initial video of the unidentified male, John Doe 48, was first recorded by the National&nbsp; Center for Missing and Exploited Children in December of 2023. The EXIF data embedded&nbsp; within the video file indicated that the file was produced in October of 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Doe 48 is described as a White male between the ages of 45 and 65 years old, with&nbsp; dark hair, and a gray beard. He has a tattoo on each of his forearms. He is seen in the back of a&nbsp; 2018-2019 Nissan NV Cargo Van wearing a blue t-shirt and a dark-colored hat. He is heard&nbsp; speaking English in the video.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone with information to provide should submit a tip online at https://tips.fbi.gov/, or&nbsp; call the FBI’s toll-free tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The public is reminded no&nbsp; charges have been filed in this case and the pictured individual is presumed innocent unless and&nbsp; until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;This individual is being sought as part of the FBI’s Operation Rescue Me and Endangered&nbsp; Child Alert Program (ECAP) initiatives. Operation Rescue Me focuses on utilizing clues&nbsp; obtained through in-depth image analysis to identify the child victims depicted in child&nbsp; exploitation material, while ECAP seeks national and international media exposure of unknown&nbsp; adults (referred to as John/Jane Does) who visibly display their faces and/or other distinguishing characteristics in association with child pornography images.

FBI Seeking Individual Who May Have Information Regarding the  Identity of a Child Sexual Assault Victim  

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/25/nebraskans-explore-ways-to-woo-immigrant-workers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

FREMONT, Nebraska — A near-packed auditorium turned out for a conference here Tuesday aimed at offering Nebraska employers strategies to integrate immigrants and refugees into their workforce.

The draw of more than 200 participants was an encouraging sign to organizers including the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, which has ramped up efforts to promote foreign-born workers as a way to fill what a spokesman said are between 50,000 and 100,000 open jobs in the state.

Mike Johnson, the chamber’s chief operating officer, told the statewide audience representing both public and private sectors that Nebraska’s gross domestic product could jump as much as 10% if those open slots were filled. He said the likely pool of recruits hails from abroad.

Notwithstanding political divisiveness over immigration, he said, employers are increasingly frustrated with trying to find talent to conduct business.

“This topic is striking a chord with Nebraskans,” Johnson said of the Nebraska Immigration and Workforce Summit.&nbsp;

The conference location itself, Fremont, may reflect a shift in attitude among some.

This town of about 27,000 residents northwest of Omaha captured national attention a decade ago when a divisive local rental housing ordinance targeting unauthorized immigrants was ruled legal by a federal court. The U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal.

“We took a chance on them, and now they’ve shown the dedication to stay with us.”

– Jim Townsend, manager of safety, training, development and wellness at Kawasaki in Lincoln

Current Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg gave Tuesday’s welcome address and told the Nebraska Examiner that to fill its jobs today, the city needs to “embrace the immigrant community.”

“Absolutely things have changed in Fremont,” he said, though others say some resentment remains against unauthorized immigrants.

While the ordinance that sought to bar undocumented migrants from renting in the city remains on Fremont’s books, Spellerberg said it is “impossible to enforce.”

He said that in more recent years, the growing town has established a Spanish-speaking business networking group. It hosts an annual Latino-themed festival.

“It is awesome to see Fremont come alive,” Spellerberg said.

The daylong summit — organized also by the Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/a-pair-of-longtime-nebraska-nonprofits-serving-refugees-and-immigrants-join-as-one-legal-entity/">Immigrant Legal Center/Refugee Empowerment Center</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp; featured various speakers who offered employer-focused basics about immigration law and “best practices” for retaining an international workforce.

Jim Townsend, a manager at Lincoln’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kawasakilincoln.com/" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a>&nbsp;plant, said a key strategy to retention success has been offering English language classes — on three different levels — to employees during work hours.&nbsp;

He said that about five years ago, facing a severe labor shortage, the company reassessed its policies and partnered with the Lincoln Literacy nonprofit to implement changes, including translating materials to four languages in addition to English.

Townsend said 49% of the plant’s overall workforce it had in 2019 remains. But differences emerge when looking at retention rates by primary language spoken.

Of English speakers, 46% remained on the job five years later, Townsend said. For Ukrainian workers, the retention rate was 79%; for those who spoke Spanish, 73%; for Dari speakers, over 80%.

Said Townsend: “We took a chance on them, and now they’ve shown the dedication to stay with us.”

Diane Temme Stinton, CEO of Lincoln-based&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/25/lincoln-manufacturer-welcomes-immigrants-explores-all-avenues-to-address-states-workforce-shortage/">TMCO manufacturing plant</a>, said employers can’t underestimate how clearer, culturally-sensitive language can improve participation and promote team spirit. For example, she said, explaining a “potluck” dinner or an invitation to a “fun run” can ensure greater involvement from workers who did not grow up speaking English.

Building an inclusive workplace, panelists said, can mean providing “empathy training” for U.S.-born supervisors to better understand traditions and customs of workers raised in other countries — for example, understanding when Muslim workers wash their feet in the company sink to prepare for prayer.

“Employees are the best recruiters,” said Summer Erickson of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bryanhealth.com/locations/" target="_blank">Bryan Health</a>. They’ll spread the word if they feel welcome.

Townsend said he’s been wowed by how often a person’s “hard no” to the prospect of revving up immigration levels has turned to a “hard yes” after observing a foreign-born population’s work ethic.

To be sure, amplifying the discussion can be divisive — immigration has emerged as a top voter concern in the coming Nov. 5 general election.

Members of Nebraska’s all-GOP congressional delegation have criticized President Joe Biden’s recent executive order regarding political asylum seekers. Gov. Jim Pillen&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-visits-nebraska-national-guard-on-texas-mexico-border-with-speaker-arch-sen-tom-brewer/">has deployed</a>&nbsp;the Nebraska National Guard to help Texas police its border with Mexico, at Nebraska’s public expense.&nbsp;

But Erik Omar, executive director of the Immigrant Legal Center/Refugee Empowerment Center, said Nebraska needs immigrants in order to grow and thrive economically. “There’s no way around it,” he said.

Omar hopes the conference leads to further discussion in Nebraska about opening more doors to foreign-born workers.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s summit follows a trio of reports by a North Carolina-based consultant to the research arm of the Nebraska chamber. In all three reports, which were intended to assess the state’s economic competitiveness, immigration surfaced as a top solution to fill the state’s workforce gaps and ward off economic decline.

The closing panel included leaders of Nebraska nonprofits that were founded to make newcomers feel welcome.

Karina Perez, executive director of Columbus-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centrohispanos.com/" target="_blank">Centro Hispano</a>, said her organization grew from two to 12 women now working with various partners and businesses in rural northeast Nebraska.

Private employers in her area are invested to the point of contributing the bulk of $5 million to build a new welcoming center in Columbus.

Lisa Guill is the welcoming communities coordinator of the Cultural Centers of Lincoln, which is funded by the City of Lincoln and Lancaster County governments.

Among the entity’s goals, she said, is to make Lincoln a “certified welcoming city.” That’s a designation bestowed by the Atlanta-based Welcoming America organization on governments that have created policies and programs that reflect a commitment to inclusion of all backgrounds.&nbsp;

Guill said the organization is close to achieving a rare four-star certification out of a possible five. She said 80 requirements must be met.

“It’s a big lift, it’s a big deal, and we’re going to do it,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719412706558.jpeg" alt="An immigrant-friendly sign is posted on the way to downtown Fremont, where more than 200 conference-goers attended the Nebraska Immigration &amp; Workforce Summit put on by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and the Immigrant Legal Center/Refugee Empowerment Center. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>An immigrant-friendly sign is posted on the way to downtown Fremont, where more than 200 conference-goers attended the Nebraska Immigration &amp; Workforce Summit put on by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and the Immigrant Legal Center/Refugee Empowerment Center. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/25/nebraskans-explore-ways-to-woo-immigrant-workers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>FREMONT, Nebraska — A near-packed auditorium turned out for a conference here Tuesday aimed at offering Nebraska employers strategies to integrate immigrants and refugees into their workforce.The draw of more than 200 participants was an encouraging sign to organizers including the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, which has ramped up efforts to promote foreign-born workers as a way to fill what a spokesman said are between 50,000 and 100,000 open jobs in the state.Mike Johnson, the chamber’s chief operating officer, told the statewide audience representing both public and private sectors that Nebraska’s gross domestic product could jump as much as 10% if those open slots were filled. He said the likely pool of recruits hails from abroad.Notwithstanding political divisiveness over immigration, he said, employers are increasingly frustrated with trying to find talent to conduct business.“This topic is striking a chord with Nebraskans,” Johnson said of the Nebraska Immigration and Workforce Summit.&nbsp;<h2>‘Things have changed in Fremont’</h2>The conference location itself, Fremont, may reflect a shift in attitude among some.This town of about 27,000 residents northwest of Omaha captured national attention a decade ago when a divisive local rental housing ordinance targeting unauthorized immigrants was ruled legal by a federal court. The U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal.“We took a chance on them, and now they’ve shown the dedication to stay with us.”– Jim Townsend, manager of safety, training, development and wellness at Kawasaki in LincolnCurrent Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg gave Tuesday’s welcome address and told the Nebraska Examiner that to fill its jobs today, the city needs to “embrace the immigrant community.”“Absolutely things have changed in Fremont,” he said, though others say some resentment remains against unauthorized immigrants.While the ordinance that sought to bar undocumented migrants from renting in the city remains on Fremont’s books, Spellerberg said it is “impossible to enforce.”He said that in more recent years, the growing town has established a Spanish-speaking business networking group. It hosts an annual Latino-themed festival.“It is awesome to see Fremont come alive,” Spellerberg said.<h2>Best practices</h2>The daylong summit — organized also by the Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/a-pair-of-longtime-nebraska-nonprofits-serving-refugees-and-immigrants-join-as-one-legal-entity/">Immigrant Legal Center/Refugee Empowerment Center</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp; featured various speakers who offered employer-focused basics about immigration law and “best practices” for retaining an international workforce.Jim Townsend, a manager at Lincoln’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kawasakilincoln.com/" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a>&nbsp;plant, said a key strategy to retention success has been offering English language classes — on three different levels — to employees during work hours.&nbsp;He said that about five years ago, facing a severe labor shortage, the company reassessed its policies and partnered with the Lincoln Literacy nonprofit to implement changes, including translating materials to four languages in addition to English.Townsend said 49% of the plant’s overall workforce it had in 2019 remains. But differences emerge when looking at retention rates by primary language spoken.Of English speakers, 46% remained on the job five years later, Townsend said. For Ukrainian workers, the retention rate was 79%; for those who spoke Spanish, 73%; for Dari speakers, over 80%.Said Townsend: “We took a chance on them, and now they’ve shown the dedication to stay with us.”Diane Temme Stinton, CEO of Lincoln-based&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/25/lincoln-manufacturer-welcomes-immigrants-explores-all-avenues-to-address-states-workforce-shortage/">TMCO manufacturing plant</a>, said employers can’t underestimate how clearer, culturally-sensitive language can improve participation and promote team spirit. For example, she said, explaining a “potluck” dinner or an invitation to a “fun run” can ensure greater involvement from workers who did not grow up speaking English.<h2>Employees ‘best recruiters’</h2>Building an inclusive workplace, panelists said, can mean providing “empathy training” for U.S.-born supervisors to better understand traditions and customs of workers raised in other countries — for example, understanding when Muslim workers wash their feet in the company sink to prepare for prayer.“Employees are the best recruiters,” said Summer Erickson of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bryanhealth.com/locations/" target="_blank">Bryan Health</a>. They’ll spread the word if they feel welcome.Townsend said he’s been wowed by how often a person’s “hard no” to the prospect of revving up immigration levels has turned to a “hard yes” after observing a foreign-born population’s work ethic.To be sure, amplifying the discussion can be divisive — immigration has emerged as a top voter concern in the coming Nov. 5 general election.Members of Nebraska’s all-GOP congressional delegation have criticized President Joe Biden’s recent executive order regarding political asylum seekers. Gov. Jim Pillen&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-visits-nebraska-national-guard-on-texas-mexico-border-with-speaker-arch-sen-tom-brewer/">has deployed</a>&nbsp;the Nebraska National Guard to help Texas police its border with Mexico, at Nebraska’s public expense.&nbsp;But Erik Omar, executive director of the Immigrant Legal Center/Refugee Empowerment Center, said Nebraska needs immigrants in order to grow and thrive economically. “There’s no way around it,” he said.Omar hopes the conference leads to further discussion in Nebraska about opening more doors to foreign-born workers.&nbsp;<h2>Top solution</h2>Tuesday’s summit follows a trio of reports by a North Carolina-based consultant to the research arm of the Nebraska chamber. In all three reports, which were intended to assess the state’s economic competitiveness, immigration surfaced as a top solution to fill the state’s workforce gaps and ward off economic decline.The closing panel included leaders of Nebraska nonprofits that were founded to make newcomers feel welcome.Karina Perez, executive director of Columbus-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centrohispanos.com/" target="_blank">Centro Hispano</a>, said her organization grew from two to 12 women now working with various partners and businesses in rural northeast Nebraska.Private employers in her area are invested to the point of contributing the bulk of $5 million to build a new welcoming center in Columbus.Lisa Guill is the welcoming communities coordinator of the Cultural Centers of Lincoln, which is funded by the City of Lincoln and Lancaster County governments.Among the entity’s goals, she said, is to make Lincoln a “certified welcoming city.” That’s a designation bestowed by the Atlanta-based Welcoming America organization on governments that have created policies and programs that reflect a commitment to inclusion of all backgrounds.&nbsp;Guill said the organization is close to achieving a rare four-star certification out of a possible five. She said 80 requirements must be met.“It’s a big lift, it’s a big deal, and we’re going to do it,” she said.

Nebraskans explore ways to woo immigrant workers

Totally Cool, Inc. of Owings Mills, Maryland is recalling multiple brands of ice cream products, because they have the potential to be contaminated with&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to a media release from the FDA.

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/179567/download?attachment">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the complete list of recalled products

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Products were distributed nationwide, and available in retail locations and direct delivery.

Product can be identified by comparing the date and plant information on the product. Example photographs of the impacted product are provided below.

Totally Cool, Inc. has ceased the production and distribution of the affected products due to FDA sampling which discovered the presence of&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes. The company continues its investigation and is taking preventive actions. No other products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. are impacted by this recall.

Consumers who have recalled product in their possession are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Totally Cool, Inc. at 410-363- 7801 and&nbsp;<a href="mailto:regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com">regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com</a>, between 8am and 4pm eastern, Monday to Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719415576254.png" alt="Image courtesy FDA" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FDA</figcaption>
 </figure>Totally Cool, Inc. of Owings Mills, Maryland is recalling multiple brands of ice cream products, because they have the potential to be contaminated with&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to a media release from the FDA.<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/179567/download?attachment">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the complete list of recalled productsAlthough healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea,&nbsp;Listeria&nbsp;infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.Products were distributed nationwide, and available in retail locations and direct delivery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719415555369.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Product can be identified by comparing the date and plant information on the product. Example photographs of the impacted product are provided below.No illnesses have been reported to date.Totally Cool, Inc. has ceased the production and distribution of the affected products due to FDA sampling which discovered the presence of&nbsp;Listeria monocytogenes. The company continues its investigation and is taking preventive actions. No other products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. are impacted by this recall.Consumers who have recalled product in their possession are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Totally Cool, Inc. at 410-363- 7801 and&nbsp;<a href="mailto:regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com">regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com</a>, between 8am and 4pm eastern, Monday to Friday.

Ice cream products from major brands recalled for listeria risk

Chadron, Neb., June 6, 2024 - Lightning caused the ignition of a wildfire in Oglala National Grasslands that was discovered early Tuesday morning, June 25.&nbsp;US Forest Service Fire Fighters responded along with agency support offered by Chadron, Crawford, and Harrison NE Volunteer fire departments.

The fire is being managed under a unified command between the US Forest Service, Crawford Volunteer Fire Department and the Harrison Volunteer Fire.

There was a Type 1 helicopter and air attack ordered to support the initial attack of the fire.&nbsp;They worked to assist with firefighters and heavy equipment on the ground much of the afternoon on June 25th and will continue these operations today.

Incident management still asks the public refrain from recreational activity on Whitney Lake through today, as the helicopter is using the lake as the largest local body of water to dip out of.

Current strategy will be to continue mopping up dozer lines and securing the lines. 

Given the steep terrain and heavy dead and down timber left by the 2012 Douthit Fire, it was difficult to safely engage the fire early on, but with assistance from many local cooperators lines were put in place and successfully held overnight.&nbsp;The fire was mapped today and was concluded to be at 340 acres.

Tim Buskirk, District Ranger said, “we really appreciate the efforts of the firefighters in their work yesterday.&nbsp;I’d like to thank all our cooperators including Chadron, Crawford and Harrison VFDs, Dawes and Sioux County Road Departments, Pine Ridge Job Corps, Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands and our friends in South Dakota.”

For ongoing updates, please see Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands on Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/NebraskaForestsGrasslands">www.facebook.com/NebraskaForestsGrasslands</a>

Chadron, Neb., June 6, 2024 - Lightning caused the ignition of a wildfire in Oglala National Grasslands that was discovered early Tuesday morning, June 25.&nbsp;US Forest Service Fire Fighters responded along with agency support offered by Chadron, Crawford, and Harrison NE Volunteer fire departments.The fire is being managed under a unified command between the US Forest Service, Crawford Volunteer Fire Department and the Harrison Volunteer Fire.There was a Type 1 helicopter and air attack ordered to support the initial attack of the fire.&nbsp;They worked to assist with firefighters and heavy equipment on the ground much of the afternoon on June 25th and will continue these operations today.Incident management still asks the public refrain from recreational activity on Whitney Lake through today, as the helicopter is using the lake as the largest local body of water to dip out of.Current strategy will be to continue mopping up dozer lines and securing the lines. Given the steep terrain and heavy dead and down timber left by the 2012 Douthit Fire, it was difficult to safely engage the fire early on, but with assistance from many local cooperators lines were put in place and successfully held overnight.&nbsp;The fire was mapped today and was concluded to be at 340 acres.Tim Buskirk, District Ranger said, “we really appreciate the efforts of the firefighters in their work yesterday.&nbsp;I’d like to thank all our cooperators including Chadron, Crawford and Harrison VFDs, Dawes and Sioux County Road Departments, Pine Ridge Job Corps, Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands and our friends in South Dakota.”For ongoing updates, please see Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands on Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/NebraskaForestsGrasslands">www.facebook.com/NebraskaForestsGrasslands</a>

Eagle Eye Fire Update

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Francisco Ramirez-Vasquez, 22, of Guatemala, was sentenced on June 25, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of possession of meth with the intent to distribute. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Bataillon sentenced Ramirez-Vasquez to a total of 87 months’ imprisonment for both counts. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ramirez-Vasquez’s release from prison, he will begin a 2-year term of supervised release.

On March 15, 2023, the United States Postal Service (USPS) discovered a suspicious package in the mail.&nbsp; A drug dog alerted to the presence of narcotics in the package and inside the package, investigators found three bundles of suspected meth that weighed approximately seven pounds.&nbsp; Investigators obtained a search warrant for the residence in Hastings and completed a controlled delivery of the package on March 16, 2023.&nbsp; While searching the residence, investigators located the package used during the controlled delivery, a second USPS box containing meth, additional meth in other locations in the residence, cocaine, a suspected drug ledger, $8,026 in U.S. currency, a digital scale, unused sandwich baggies consistent with packaging narcotics, and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; Ramirez-Vasquez’s phone was seized and searched.&nbsp; The phone contained messages related to drug distribution.&nbsp;

The State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed the substance seized in the USPS boxes was meth, with a total weight over 2665 grams.&nbsp; A sample weighing 443 grams was tested for purity.&nbsp; The lab confirmed that the sample contained at least 420 grams of meth actual.

This case was investigated by the Tri-City Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT). TRIDENT is a task force with law enforcement personnel from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Kearney Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

United States Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Francisco Ramirez-Vasquez, 22, of Guatemala, was sentenced on June 25, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of possession of meth with the intent to distribute. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Bataillon sentenced Ramirez-Vasquez to a total of 87 months’ imprisonment for both counts. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ramirez-Vasquez’s release from prison, he will begin a 2-year term of supervised release.On March 15, 2023, the United States Postal Service (USPS) discovered a suspicious package in the mail.&nbsp; A drug dog alerted to the presence of narcotics in the package and inside the package, investigators found three bundles of suspected meth that weighed approximately seven pounds.&nbsp; Investigators obtained a search warrant for the residence in Hastings and completed a controlled delivery of the package on March 16, 2023.&nbsp; While searching the residence, investigators located the package used during the controlled delivery, a second USPS box containing meth, additional meth in other locations in the residence, cocaine, a suspected drug ledger, $8,026 in U.S. currency, a digital scale, unused sandwich baggies consistent with packaging narcotics, and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; Ramirez-Vasquez’s phone was seized and searched.&nbsp; The phone contained messages related to drug distribution.&nbsp;The State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed the substance seized in the USPS boxes was meth, with a total weight over 2665 grams.&nbsp; A sample weighing 443 grams was tested for purity.&nbsp; The lab confirmed that the sample contained at least 420 grams of meth actual.This case was investigated by the Tri-City Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT). TRIDENT is a task force with law enforcement personnel from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Kearney Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

Foreign National Sentenced to 7 Years and 3 Months for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine   

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen sent a letter to Speaker of the Legislature John Arch, announcing his intent to call senators back into session starting July 25, to address the state’s worsening property tax crisis. Pursuant to the Nebraska Constitution, prior to that date, the Governor will issue a proclamation convening the special session and specifying its purpose.

“In my sine die address in April, I stated that I would call a special session this summer to facilitate another opportunity for us to meet Nebraskans’ demand that their elected leaders fix this crisis now. I have traveled extensively across the state since the Legislature adjourned and have heard from a wide range of people. Their message is clear: stop this massive overall tax increase by fixing property taxes.”

Gov. Pillen has hosted 19 town halls to date aimed at educating Nebraskans about what has fueled the current tax crisis and how it might best be addressed. At each stop, he has emphasized what has become an ever-accelerating problem, one in which total property taxes will soon grow by more than a million dollars a day.

Town halls are scheduled for the remainder of the week in the following communities:

&nbsp; 1:30 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;Columbus:&nbsp;Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 753 33rd&nbsp;Ave, Columbus

10:00 a.m. (CT)&nbsp;Valentine:&nbsp;Mid Plains Community College, 715 E Hwy 20, Valentine

1:00 p.m. (MT)&nbsp;Chadron:&nbsp;Chadron State College, Student Center – Lakota Room, 1000 Main Street, Chadron

4:30 p.m. (MT)&nbsp;Alliance:&nbsp;Westside Events Center, 2472 County Road 62, Alliance&nbsp; &nbsp;

8:30 a.m. (MT)&nbsp;Ogallala:&nbsp;Petrified Wood Gallery, 418 East 1st&nbsp;Street, Ogallala

1:00 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;McCook:&nbsp;Coppermill Steakhouse, 202 Coppermill St., McCook

4:00 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;Lexington:&nbsp;Central Community College – The Opportunity Center, 1501 Plum Creek Pkwy, Lexington&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Governor’s letter to Speaker Arch also makes clear that he is willing to call an additional special session to resolve other unfinished business, should he receive a signal from the Legislature that support exists to justify a special session. Among such unfinished business would be returning Nebraska’s allocation of electoral votes to winner-take-all.Gov. Pillen’s letter to Speaker Arch is attached to this release.

<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/Letter-To-Sen-Arch.pdf">Letter To Sen. Arch</a>

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen sent a letter to Speaker of the Legislature John Arch, announcing his intent to call senators back into session starting July 25, to address the state’s worsening property tax crisis. Pursuant to the Nebraska Constitution, prior to that date, the Governor will issue a proclamation convening the special session and specifying its purpose.The letter reads in part:“In my sine die address in April, I stated that I would call a special session this summer to facilitate another opportunity for us to meet Nebraskans’ demand that their elected leaders fix this crisis now. I have traveled extensively across the state since the Legislature adjourned and have heard from a wide range of people. Their message is clear: stop this massive overall tax increase by fixing property taxes.”Gov. Pillen has hosted 19 town halls to date aimed at educating Nebraskans about what has fueled the current tax crisis and how it might best be addressed. At each stop, he has emphasized what has become an ever-accelerating problem, one in which total property taxes will soon grow by more than a million dollars a day.Town halls are scheduled for the remainder of the week in the following communities:Wednesday, June 26&nbsp; 1:30 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;Columbus:&nbsp;Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 753 33rd&nbsp;Ave, ColumbusThursday, June 2710:00 a.m. (CT)&nbsp;Valentine:&nbsp;Mid Plains Community College, 715 E Hwy 20, Valentine1:00 p.m. (MT)&nbsp;Chadron:&nbsp;Chadron State College, Student Center – Lakota Room, 1000 Main Street, Chadron4:30 p.m. (MT)&nbsp;Alliance:&nbsp;Westside Events Center, 2472 County Road 62, Alliance&nbsp; &nbsp;Friday, June 288:30 a.m. (MT)&nbsp;Ogallala:&nbsp;Petrified Wood Gallery, 418 East 1st&nbsp;Street, Ogallala1:00 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;McCook:&nbsp;Coppermill Steakhouse, 202 Coppermill St., McCook4:00 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;Lexington:&nbsp;Central Community College – The Opportunity Center, 1501 Plum Creek Pkwy, Lexington&nbsp;&nbsp;The Governor’s letter to Speaker Arch also makes clear that he is willing to call an additional special session to resolve other unfinished business, should he receive a signal from the Legislature that support exists to justify a special session. Among such unfinished business would be returning Nebraska’s allocation of electoral votes to winner-take-all.Gov. Pillen’s letter to Speaker Arch is attached to this release.<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/Letter-To-Sen-Arch.pdf">Letter To Sen. Arch</a>

Governor Pillen Provides Further Guidance Regarding Special Session to Fix Property Tax Crisis

OMAHA, NE&nbsp;— Today, the Platte Institute unveiled a <a href="https://platteinstitute.org/property-tax-reform-policy-vision/" target="_blank">
new resource</a> outlining its vision for lowering property taxes in Nebraska. This report presents a strategy based on sound tax principles aimed at delivering significant and sustainable property tax relief for Nebraskans.&nbsp;
In conjunction with the report, the Platte Institute also released a <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1iXztJO4YrGfGutwld0dHX?si=a08db63683ed4c2f" target="_blank">
new episode</a> of Nebraskanomics, its bimonthly podcast, which delves into the key findings and recommendations of the report.

&nbsp; "Our 2023 tax reforms were a monumental achievement, but the demand for property tax relief continues to grow," said Jim Vokal, Chief Executive Officer of the Platte Institute. "This new resource provides a clear roadmap to achieve meaningful property tax cuts
 without compromising Nebraska's fiscal stability or overall competitiveness. Our hope is for these recommendations to be adopted in the upcoming special session, and that we continue to move our state towards greater prosperity."&nbsp;


Key elements of the Platte Institute’s property tax vision include:

The latest episode of Nebraskanomics can be accessed on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nebraskanomics/id1545080575?i=1000660210681" target="_blank">
Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1iXztJO4YrGfGutwld0dHX?si=a08db63683ed4c2f" target="_blank">
Spotify</a> and features an in-depth discussion with Platte CEO Jim Vokal and Senior Tax Policy Advisor Michael Lucci. During the episode the two discuss the report and its implications for Nebraska's future tax policy.&nbsp;

For further inquiries or to schedule an interview, please contact Ryan Kopsa at (402) 366-4432 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rkopsa@platteinstitute.org" target="_blank">rkopsa@platteinstitute.org</a>.
The Platte Institute is dedicated to advancing policies that remove barriers to growth and opportunity in Nebraska. Visit PlatteInstitute.org for more information on our initiatives.&nbsp;

Platte InstituteOMAHA, NE&nbsp;— Today, the Platte Institute unveiled a <a href="https://platteinstitute.org/property-tax-reform-policy-vision/" target="_blank">
new resource</a> outlining its vision for lowering property taxes in Nebraska. This report presents a strategy based on sound tax principles aimed at delivering significant and sustainable property tax relief for Nebraskans.&nbsp;
In conjunction with the report, the Platte Institute also released a <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1iXztJO4YrGfGutwld0dHX?si=a08db63683ed4c2f" target="_blank">
new episode</a> of Nebraskanomics, its bimonthly podcast, which delves into the key findings and recommendations of the report. &nbsp; "Our 2023 tax reforms were a monumental achievement, but the demand for property tax relief continues to grow," said Jim Vokal, Chief Executive Officer of the Platte Institute. "This new resource provides a clear roadmap to achieve meaningful property tax cuts
 without compromising Nebraska's fiscal stability or overall competitiveness. Our hope is for these recommendations to be adopted in the upcoming special session, and that we continue to move our state towards greater prosperity."&nbsp;
Key elements of the Platte Institute’s property tax vision include:<ul>
 <li>
Defending 2023 Tax Reform:&nbsp;Ensuring the continued implementation of the 2023 tax reforms to bolster Nebraska’s competitiveness.&nbsp;</li><li>
Avoiding Ineffective Solutions:&nbsp;Steering clear of undependable revenue sources and policies that could create perpetual claims on state resources.&nbsp;</li><li>
Enforcing Property Tax Controls:&nbsp;Establishing strict property tax caps and truth-in-taxation measures to guarantee transparency and accountability.&nbsp;</li><li>
Phasing Out the Third-Party Payer Problem:&nbsp;Reducing inefficient local spending by tying state resources to direct, dollar-for-dollar property tax relief.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>
The latest episode of Nebraskanomics can be accessed on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nebraskanomics/id1545080575?i=1000660210681" target="_blank">
Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1iXztJO4YrGfGutwld0dHX?si=a08db63683ed4c2f" target="_blank">
Spotify</a> and features an in-depth discussion with Platte CEO Jim Vokal and Senior Tax Policy Advisor Michael Lucci. During the episode the two discuss the report and its implications for Nebraska's future tax policy.&nbsp;
For further inquiries or to schedule an interview, please contact Ryan Kopsa at (402) 366-4432 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rkopsa@platteinstitute.org" target="_blank">rkopsa@platteinstitute.org</a>.
The Platte Institute is dedicated to advancing policies that remove barriers to growth and opportunity in Nebraska. Visit PlatteInstitute.org for more information on our initiatives.&nbsp;

 Platte Institute Releases Vision for Lowering Property Taxes 

BELLEVUE, Nebraska — Offutt Air Force Base leadership, under the direction of Col. Mark Howard, 55th Wing commander, is taking proactive steps in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to strengthen flood defenses around the base perimeter. This initiative directly responds to rising water levels in the Missouri River, ensuring the base remains secure and operational.&nbsp;

"Offutt Air Force Base is taking proactive measures by closely collaborating with the Army&nbsp; Corps of Engineers to inspect the levees surrounding our facilities,” said Howard. “Learning&nbsp; from the challenges of the 2011 and 2019 floods, we have implemented advanced flood&nbsp; management strategies to ensure the highest level of preparedness and protection for our base&nbsp; and its assets. Our commitment to readiness and resilience stands firm as we monitor the&nbsp; approaching flood waters from the Missouri River, prepared for any scenario."&nbsp;

The ongoing partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers actively involves reviewing and&nbsp; enhancing existing levee systems to ensure they meet current safety standards and are fortified against potential breaches. This collaboration highlights the base's commitment to utilizing&nbsp; expert advice and cutting-edge technologies to protect its personnel, infrastructure, and critical&nbsp; national assets.&nbsp;

"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Omaha District is being proactive and keeping&nbsp; communication lines open with the 55th Wing and Team Offutt leadership teams,” said Col.&nbsp; Robert Newbauer, Omaha District commander. “We’re incredibly grateful for the relationship&nbsp; we’ve developed with them since the March 2019 flood, and we remain committed to providing&nbsp; assistance or answering any questions they may have.”&nbsp;

The 2011 and 2019 floods posed significant challenges to Offutt AFB, prompting a thorough review of flood response strategies and the implementation of improved measures. The lessons learned from these events have been instrumental in shaping current flood prevention tactics, which focus on robust surveillance, rapid response capabilities, and continuous improvement of infrastructure resilience.

Offutt AFB continues to work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to monitor the&nbsp; situation and respond effectively to any developments. The safety and security of our personnel&nbsp; and facilities remain our top priority as we address the challenges posed by natural events.&nbsp;

For further information, contact the 55th Wing Public Affairs office by emailing 55wg.pa@us.af.mil or by calling 402-294-3663.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719343122742.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>55th Wing Public AffairBELLEVUE, Nebraska — Offutt Air Force Base leadership, under the direction of Col. Mark Howard, 55th Wing commander, is taking proactive steps in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to strengthen flood defenses around the base perimeter. This initiative directly responds to rising water levels in the Missouri River, ensuring the base remains secure and operational.&nbsp;"Offutt Air Force Base is taking proactive measures by closely collaborating with the Army&nbsp; Corps of Engineers to inspect the levees surrounding our facilities,” said Howard. “Learning&nbsp; from the challenges of the 2011 and 2019 floods, we have implemented advanced flood&nbsp; management strategies to ensure the highest level of preparedness and protection for our base&nbsp; and its assets. Our commitment to readiness and resilience stands firm as we monitor the&nbsp; approaching flood waters from the Missouri River, prepared for any scenario."&nbsp;The ongoing partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers actively involves reviewing and&nbsp; enhancing existing levee systems to ensure they meet current safety standards and are fortified against potential breaches. This collaboration highlights the base's commitment to utilizing&nbsp; expert advice and cutting-edge technologies to protect its personnel, infrastructure, and critical&nbsp; national assets.&nbsp;"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Omaha District is being proactive and keeping&nbsp; communication lines open with the 55th Wing and Team Offutt leadership teams,” said Col.&nbsp; Robert Newbauer, Omaha District commander. “We’re incredibly grateful for the relationship&nbsp; we’ve developed with them since the March 2019 flood, and we remain committed to providing&nbsp; assistance or answering any questions they may have.”&nbsp;The 2011 and 2019 floods posed significant challenges to Offutt AFB, prompting a thorough review of flood response strategies and the implementation of improved measures. The lessons learned from these events have been instrumental in shaping current flood prevention tactics, which focus on robust surveillance, rapid response capabilities, and continuous improvement of infrastructure resilience.Offutt AFB continues to work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to monitor the&nbsp; situation and respond effectively to any developments. The safety and security of our personnel&nbsp; and facilities remain our top priority as we address the challenges posed by natural events.&nbsp;For further information, contact the 55th Wing Public Affairs office by emailing 55wg.pa@us.af.mil or by calling 402-294-3663.&nbsp;

Offutt proactive against potential flood water

Snapchill LLC (Snapchill) of Wisconsin is voluntarily recalling all canned coffee products manufactured by the company, within expiration date, because their current process could lead to the growth and production of the deadly toxin, botulinum toxin, in low acid canned foods, according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration.

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/179493/download?attachment">Click here to see a complete</a> list of products included

Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. Symptoms can begin from six hours to two weeks after eating food that contains botulinum toxin. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

The products were distributed nationwide through various coffee roasters and retail locations, as well as through direct online purchase from Snapchill. The problem was identified when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified Snapchill that the low acid canned foods process for manufacturing the recalled products was not filed with FDA, as is required by regulation. No illnesses have been reported to-date, and Snapchill is not aware of any instances in which the company’s products contained botulin toxin. Snapchill is working on filing the appropriate notification with FDA.

The products are sold under a range of roaster and brand names, in variety of metal can sizes ranging from 7 oz to 12 oz. The products are identifiable by the language “Produced and distributed by Snapchill LLC” underneath the nutrition facts panel. Some of the products can also be identified by the text “Snapchill Coffee” on the label. The specific products subject to this voluntary recall are listed at the end of this notice.

This voluntary recall is being made with the knowledge of FDA.

Consumers should either destroy the products or return the product to Snapchill or the place of purchase for a refund. Snapchill will offer full refunds for any of these products, with appropriate proof of purchase including a picture of the product(s) before being destroyed. Full information about the return and refund will be available at Compliance@Snapchill.com.

Consumers with questions may contact the company any time by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Compliance@snapchill.com">Compliance@snapchill.com</a>, or by phone, Monday through Friday between 8:00am and 4:00pm Central Time, at (920) 632-6018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719331741764.png" alt="Among the hundreds of coffee products included in the recall" />
 <figcaption>Among the hundreds of coffee products included in the recall</figcaption>
 </figure>Snapchill LLC (Snapchill) of Wisconsin is voluntarily recalling all canned coffee products manufactured by the company, within expiration date, because their current process could lead to the growth and production of the deadly toxin, botulinum toxin, in low acid canned foods, according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration.<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/179493/download?attachment">Click here to see a complete</a> list of products includedBotulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. Symptoms can begin from six hours to two weeks after eating food that contains botulinum toxin. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.The products were distributed nationwide through various coffee roasters and retail locations, as well as through direct online purchase from Snapchill. The problem was identified when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified Snapchill that the low acid canned foods process for manufacturing the recalled products was not filed with FDA, as is required by regulation. No illnesses have been reported to-date, and Snapchill is not aware of any instances in which the company’s products contained botulin toxin. Snapchill is working on filing the appropriate notification with FDA.The products are sold under a range of roaster and brand names, in variety of metal can sizes ranging from 7 oz to 12 oz. The products are identifiable by the language “Produced and distributed by Snapchill LLC” underneath the nutrition facts panel. Some of the products can also be identified by the text “Snapchill Coffee” on the label. The specific products subject to this voluntary recall are listed at the end of this notice.This voluntary recall is being made with the knowledge of FDA.Consumers should either destroy the products or return the product to Snapchill or the place of purchase for a refund. Snapchill will offer full refunds for any of these products, with appropriate proof of purchase including a picture of the product(s) before being destroyed. Full information about the return and refund will be available at Compliance@Snapchill.com.Consumers with questions may contact the company any time by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Compliance@snapchill.com">Compliance@snapchill.com</a>, or by phone, Monday through Friday between 8:00am and 4:00pm Central Time, at (920) 632-6018.

Risk of fatal food poisoning: Hundreds of coffee products recalled 

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/24/rural-ne-county-attorneys-public-defenders-confront-legal-desert-in-hiring-new-lawyers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Three decades ago, Hall County Public Defender Gerald Piccolo could get more than 100 applicants for a job opening just by posting a notice on the bulletin boards at Nebraska’s two law colleges and sharing a notice with the state bar association.

Now, he said, he’s lucky to get a handful of aspiring defense attorneys to apply. “I haven’t ever received more than 10 applicants for a job in the past 10 years,” Piccolo said. It’s part of a national trend of fewer law graduates due to decreased enrollment in law schools, which have seen a 21% drop in students since peaking in 2010.

The shortage of potential new prosecutors and public defenders is presenting an even bigger problem in Nebraska’s smaller cities and rural areas, where it’s difficult to convince some college graduates to relocate.

At Piccolo’s central Nebraska office, for instance, four of his eight lawyer positions were unfilled in 2022 and 2023, and two remain open today.

“It’s just more attractive to live in Lincoln or Omaha than live in Grand Island, Madison County or Scottsbluff,” he said. “It’s easier to stay in Omaha or Lincoln because that’s where the law schools are.”

A bill to address the workforce shortage, however, got derailed in the Nebraska Legislature toward the end of the 2024 session due to a disagreement between the state’s prosecutors and defense attorneys over the incentives that should be offered.

State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, who is a lawyer, had introduced legislation to expand financial incentives offered to “public service” attorneys — like county prosecutors and public defenders — who located in rural areas through the state’s long-running Legal Education for Public Service and Rural Practice Loan Repayment Assistance Program.

That program provides student loan repayment assistance to counties with less than 15,000 residents in an effort to address “legal deserts” in the state.

Twelve of the state’s 93 counties currently have no active lawyers, and 18 have three or fewer attorneys, according to the Nebraska State Bar Association.That shortage is projected to expand to 16 counties with no lawyers, and 32 with three or fewer by 2027, due to retirement of lawyers in rural areas.

“We hear from attorneys in rural Nebraska that they'd like to retire (but) their clients won't let them.”

– Liz Neeley, executive director, Nebraska Bar Association

“We hear from attorneys in rural Nebraska that they’d like to retire (but) their clients won’t let them,” Liz Neeley, the executive director of the Nebraska State Bar Association told a legislative committee this spring.That’s because there’s a lack of replacements for them, Neeley said. Some public defender/county attorney jobs have been vacant for six months in rural counties without a single applicant, she said, and a few jobs have been vacant for more than a year.Under Sen. Conrad’s proposed Legislative Bill 1195, the loan repayment program would be expanded to larger counties,&nbsp;such as Grand Island, Kearney, Hastings and Scottsbluff.

Funding for expanding the program, about $500,000, was projected to come from the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, which has amassed a reserve fund of millions of dollars via legal settlements it obtains from class-action lawsuits. But LB 1195, as originally proposed, failed to pass. The issue that killed it was salary parity — whether deputy county attorneys should be paid the same salary as deputy public defenders.

“It was really disappointing,” Conrad said. “We were all rowing in the same direction, and then we got tripped up on this parity issue.”&nbsp;

Representatives of the state’s county attorneys argued that the jobs are different, and shouldn’t get the same pay, and that local counties — not the state — should decide what they pay their employees. The parity issue arose during later crafting of the bill, and ended the county attorneys’ support for it.

“(Parity pay) had nothing to do with getting more people out here. And it was problematic,” said Buffalo County Attorney Shawn Eatherton.

County attorneys have broader responsibilities than public defenders, according to Eatherton. Not only do they prosecute criminal cases, he said, but handle civil lawsuits for the county, advise county officials on legal matters, handle child support enforcement, and serve as the county coroner.But Conrad said it is important to “establish fairness for those on the front lines” of the state’s legal system.There’s a clear disparity, she said, in the resources provided to public defenders. She added that public defenders, unlike county prosecutors, have to handle appeals of cases.

The supply of new attorneys is very restrictive now. It’s really become a challenge to hire someone.

– Gerald Piccolo, Hall County Public Defender

Salary parity, those interviewed said, only involves a couple of counties. Hall County, for instance, offers almost the identical pay range for new public defenders and deputy county attorneys: $74,318.00-96,990 for public defenders compared to $74,318-$105,664 for county attorneys.

The lack of attorneys to staff rural prosecutor and defender offices is also a financial issue. The Nebraska Association of County Officials, which surveyed counties, said it consistently costs them more money to contract with private attorneys to fill vacant county posts than it does to hire lawyers as county employees. 

Since counties are primarily funded via property taxes, it can raise such taxes, Conrad said. The lawyer shortage can also impact justice and judicial efficiency — the Constitution requires that criminal defendants get adequate legal services, and if contracted attorneys aren’t available, it can delay trials, and increase a county’s cost for jailing someone accused of a crime.

Despite the failure of LB 1195 to address the shortage of public service attorneys, the issue isn’t going away, said Conrad and others.

She said she plans to reintroduce a bill on the subject next year, and Eatherton agreed that something needs to be done. Meanwhile, in Hall County, Piccolo has adjusted his hiring process, and now advertises nationally via a hiring website to find candidates. Expanding the loan-repayment program would help, he added.

In recent months, Piccolo was able to fill one of his openings with an attorney from New Jersey whose family had ties to Nebraska .But of his two remaining vacancies, one — to handle juvenile court cases — has been vacant for two years.

“The supply of new attorneys is very restrictive now. It’s really become a challenge to hire someone,” Piccolo said.

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/24/rural-ne-county-attorneys-public-defenders-confront-legal-desert-in-hiring-new-lawyers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Three decades ago, Hall County Public Defender Gerald Piccolo could get more than 100 applicants for a job opening just by posting a notice on the bulletin boards at Nebraska’s two law colleges and sharing a notice with the state bar association.Now, he said, he’s lucky to get a handful of aspiring defense attorneys to apply. “I haven’t ever received more than 10 applicants for a job in the past 10 years,” Piccolo said. It’s part of a national trend of fewer law graduates due to decreased enrollment in law schools, which have seen a 21% drop in students since peaking in 2010.The shortage of potential new prosecutors and public defenders is presenting an even bigger problem in Nebraska’s smaller cities and rural areas, where it’s difficult to convince some college graduates to relocate.<h2>Bill derailed</h2>At Piccolo’s central Nebraska office, for instance, four of his eight lawyer positions were unfilled in 2022 and 2023, and two remain open today.“It’s just more attractive to live in Lincoln or Omaha than live in Grand Island, Madison County or Scottsbluff,” he said. “It’s easier to stay in Omaha or Lincoln because that’s where the law schools are.”A bill to address the workforce shortage, however, got derailed in the Nebraska Legislature toward the end of the 2024 session due to a disagreement between the state’s prosecutors and defense attorneys over the incentives that should be offered.State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, who is a lawyer, had introduced legislation to expand financial incentives offered to “public service” attorneys — like county prosecutors and public defenders — who located in rural areas through the state’s long-running Legal Education for Public Service and Rural Practice Loan Repayment Assistance Program.That program provides student loan repayment assistance to counties with less than 15,000 residents in an effort to address “legal deserts” in the state.<h2>12 of 93 counties without lawyers</h2>Twelve of the state’s 93 counties currently have no active lawyers, and 18 have three or fewer attorneys, according to the Nebraska State Bar Association.That shortage is projected to expand to 16 counties with no lawyers, and 32 with three or fewer by 2027, due to retirement of lawyers in rural areas.“We hear from attorneys in rural Nebraska that they'd like to retire (but) their clients won't let them.”– Liz Neeley, executive director, Nebraska Bar Association“We hear from attorneys in rural Nebraska that they’d like to retire (but) their clients won’t let them,” Liz Neeley, the executive director of the Nebraska State Bar Association told a legislative committee this spring.That’s because there’s a lack of replacements for them, Neeley said. Some public defender/county attorney jobs have been vacant for six months in rural counties without a single applicant, she said, and a few jobs have been vacant for more than a year.Under Sen. Conrad’s proposed Legislative Bill 1195, the loan repayment program would be expanded to larger counties,&nbsp;such as Grand Island, Kearney, Hastings and Scottsbluff.<h2>Killed by salary parity</h2>Funding for expanding the program, about $500,000, was projected to come from the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, which has amassed a reserve fund of millions of dollars via legal settlements it obtains from class-action lawsuits. But LB 1195, as originally proposed, failed to pass. The issue that killed it was salary parity — whether deputy county attorneys should be paid the same salary as deputy public defenders.“It was really disappointing,” Conrad said. “We were all rowing in the same direction, and then we got tripped up on this parity issue.”&nbsp;Representatives of the state’s county attorneys argued that the jobs are different, and shouldn’t get the same pay, and that local counties — not the state — should decide what they pay their employees. The parity issue arose during later crafting of the bill, and ended the county attorneys’ support for it.“(Parity pay) had nothing to do with getting more people out here. And it was problematic,” said Buffalo County Attorney Shawn Eatherton.<h2>Fairness on front lines</h2>County attorneys have broader responsibilities than public defenders, according to Eatherton. Not only do they prosecute criminal cases, he said, but handle civil lawsuits for the county, advise county officials on legal matters, handle child support enforcement, and serve as the county coroner.But Conrad said it is important to “establish fairness for those on the front lines” of the state’s legal system.There’s a clear disparity, she said, in the resources provided to public defenders. She added that public defenders, unlike county prosecutors, have to handle appeals of cases.The supply of new attorneys is very restrictive now. It’s really become a challenge to hire someone.– Gerald Piccolo, Hall County Public DefenderSalary parity, those interviewed said, only involves a couple of counties. Hall County, for instance, offers almost the identical pay range for new public defenders and deputy county attorneys: $74,318.00-96,990 for public defenders compared to $74,318-$105,664 for county attorneys.The lack of attorneys to staff rural prosecutor and defender offices is also a financial issue. The Nebraska Association of County Officials, which surveyed counties, said it consistently costs them more money to contract with private attorneys to fill vacant county posts than it does to hire lawyers as county employees. Since counties are primarily funded via property taxes, it can raise such taxes, Conrad said. The lawyer shortage can also impact justice and judicial efficiency — the Constitution requires that criminal defendants get adequate legal services, and if contracted attorneys aren’t available, it can delay trials, and increase a county’s cost for jailing someone accused of a crime.<h2>Not going away</h2>Despite the failure of LB 1195 to address the shortage of public service attorneys, the issue isn’t going away, said Conrad and others.She said she plans to reintroduce a bill on the subject next year, and Eatherton agreed that something needs to be done. Meanwhile, in Hall County, Piccolo has adjusted his hiring process, and now advertises nationally via a hiring website to find candidates. Expanding the loan-repayment program would help, he added.In recent months, Piccolo was able to fill one of his openings with an attorney from New Jersey whose family had ties to Nebraska .But of his two remaining vacancies, one — to handle juvenile court cases — has been vacant for two years.“The supply of new attorneys is very restrictive now. It’s really become a challenge to hire someone,” Piccolo said.

Rural NE county attorneys, public defenders confront ‘legal desert’ in hiring new lawyers

Fire crews are battling a wildfire in Northwestern Nebraska near Hudson-Meng Buffalo Kill Site according to officials. The Hudson-Men Buffalo Kill Site is located on the Ogalala National Grasslands.&nbsp;

Crews are battling the wildfire southwest of Hudson Meng and north of Eagle Eyes. The last update states that 80 acres have been burned according to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands Facebook page.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The U.S. Forest Service, Crawford, Chadron and Harrison are on scene. The Nebraska National Forest and Grassland states this fire is in difficult terrain with safety concerns of snags and heavy dead &amp; down timber. Fire fighters are planning to use natural barriers and mechanical lines to contain this fire.&nbsp;

Panhandle PostFire crews are battling a wildfire in Northwestern Nebraska near Hudson-Meng Buffalo Kill Site according to officials. The Hudson-Men Buffalo Kill Site is located on the Ogalala National Grasslands.&nbsp;Crews are battling the wildfire southwest of Hudson Meng and north of Eagle Eyes. The last update states that 80 acres have been burned according to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands Facebook page.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S. Forest Service, Crawford, Chadron and Harrison are on scene. The Nebraska National Forest and Grassland states this fire is in difficult terrain with safety concerns of snags and heavy dead &amp; down timber. Fire fighters are planning to use natural barriers and mechanical lines to contain this fire.&nbsp;

Crews battling a wildlife fire near Hudson-Meng Kill Site

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/gov-pillen-eyes-nebraska-taking-over-k-12-school-funding-instead-of-local-property-taxes/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Gov. Jim Pillen’s route to property tax reform could come through the State of Nebraska taking over all funding for K-12 schools instead of using local property taxes to pay a portion of the cost.

Pillen, in his monthly radio call-in show Monday afternoon, said the “living, breathing document” that will be his&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nine-more-gov-pillen-led-property-tax-town-halls-in-central-western-nebraska-this-week/">property tax reform plan</a>&nbsp;will include asking lawmakers to take on every penny of K-12 funding. Locally, about 60% of collected property taxes go to K-12 schools.

“Our goal of our plan is to not have property tax fund one iota of K-12 education. Zero,” Pillen said. “The [Nebraska] Constitution’s crystal clear: Our job is to educate our children. The State of Nebraska is supposed to — not property tax payers.”

Doing so would mirror legislation in 2023, when the state took on community college funding.

In 2023, Nebraskans paid about $5.3 billion in property taxes, $3.7 billion in income taxes and $2.3 billion in sales taxes. Of those taxes, Pillen said “it’s supposed to be the opposite.”

Pillen said most school board members do not have a financial background, and coupled with a confusing state aid formula for schools, Nebraska “quit on our kids.” Before changes to state law were made in 2023, the state did not give aid to about 180 of the state’s 244 school districts.

“This does nothing but strengthen [public schools],” Pillen said of his proposal. “It’s never been the intent that property taxes educate our kids.”

A caller asked Pillen to comment on valuations and tax levies, to which the governor said valuations shouldn’t be the issue because people want valuations to go up. Instead, he said, the “hard core reality” is that all taxing subdivisions —&nbsp;of which there are&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%2010.pdf" target="_blank">more than 2,000 in the state</a>&nbsp;— always fail to lower levies, which he said goes against the current spirit of the law.

“We have hard caps [on increased spending]. Then whatever the valuations are has no impact,” Pillen said.

Pillen hopes to fund his ideas through a broad-based sales tax system, which could include ending some&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/10/everybodys-got-to-play-breaking-down-nebraskas-more-than-100-sales-tax-exemptions/">sales tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;and increasing “sin taxes” on alcohol, vaping or cigarettes.

With “lots of work” to do with state senators, and a 12-day trade mission to Indonesia in early July, Pillen said he’s “just not prepared” to formally release his plan. However, he remained firm that lawmakers will return to Lincoln as he indicated in a “save-the-date” announcement last week.

“We don’t have them [the dates] locked down in gold yet, but somewhere between July 26 and August 15 is when we’ll ask for the special session,” Pillen said.

Pillen said he had signed a letter for the Legislature regarding a possible special session before joining the radio show, but the offices for the Clerk of the Legislature and Speaker John Arch said they had received no letter as of Monday afternoon.

Laura Strimple, a spokesperson for Pillen, said the letter will be available after it is presented to the Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719323425211.jpeg" alt=" Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, at the podium, and State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood speak about the state’s first investments toward a $1 billion pledge to build an Education Future Fund. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, at the podium, and State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood speak about the state’s first investments toward a $1 billion pledge to build an Education Future Fund. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/gov-pillen-eyes-nebraska-taking-over-k-12-school-funding-instead-of-local-property-taxes/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Gov. Jim Pillen’s route to property tax reform could come through the State of Nebraska taking over all funding for K-12 schools instead of using local property taxes to pay a portion of the cost.Pillen, in his monthly radio call-in show Monday afternoon, said the “living, breathing document” that will be his&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nine-more-gov-pillen-led-property-tax-town-halls-in-central-western-nebraska-this-week/">property tax reform plan</a>&nbsp;will include asking lawmakers to take on every penny of K-12 funding. Locally, about 60% of collected property taxes go to K-12 schools.“Our goal of our plan is to not have property tax fund one iota of K-12 education. Zero,” Pillen said. “The [Nebraska] Constitution’s crystal clear: Our job is to educate our children. The State of Nebraska is supposed to — not property tax payers.”Doing so would mirror legislation in 2023, when the state took on community college funding.In 2023, Nebraskans paid about $5.3 billion in property taxes, $3.7 billion in income taxes and $2.3 billion in sales taxes. Of those taxes, Pillen said “it’s supposed to be the opposite.”Pillen said most school board members do not have a financial background, and coupled with a confusing state aid formula for schools, Nebraska “quit on our kids.” Before changes to state law were made in 2023, the state did not give aid to about 180 of the state’s 244 school districts.“This does nothing but strengthen [public schools],” Pillen said of his proposal. “It’s never been the intent that property taxes educate our kids.”A caller asked Pillen to comment on valuations and tax levies, to which the governor said valuations shouldn’t be the issue because people want valuations to go up. Instead, he said, the “hard core reality” is that all taxing subdivisions —&nbsp;of which there are&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%2010.pdf" target="_blank">more than 2,000 in the state</a>&nbsp;— always fail to lower levies, which he said goes against the current spirit of the law.“We have hard caps [on increased spending]. Then whatever the valuations are has no impact,” Pillen said.Pillen hopes to fund his ideas through a broad-based sales tax system, which could include ending some&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/10/everybodys-got-to-play-breaking-down-nebraskas-more-than-100-sales-tax-exemptions/">sales tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;and increasing “sin taxes” on alcohol, vaping or cigarettes.With “lots of work” to do with state senators, and a 12-day trade mission to Indonesia in early July, Pillen said he’s “just not prepared” to formally release his plan. However, he remained firm that lawmakers will return to Lincoln as he indicated in a “save-the-date” announcement last week.“We don’t have them [the dates] locked down in gold yet, but somewhere between July 26 and August 15 is when we’ll ask for the special session,” Pillen said.Pillen said he had signed a letter for the Legislature regarding a possible special session before joining the radio show, but the offices for the Clerk of the Legislature and Speaker John Arch said they had received no letter as of Monday afternoon.Laura Strimple, a spokesperson for Pillen, said the letter will be available after it is presented to the Legislature.

Gov. Pillen eyes Nebraska taking over K-12 school funding instead of local property taxes

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;-- Governor Jim Pillen and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds have issued a joint request for people to remain off the Missouri River in the coming days, as water levels continue to surpass flood stage. That urgent message comes following the latest update from emergency management officials and representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Governors Pillen and Reynolds stressed the seriousness of the situation, and the need to remain informed and make safety a priority:

“Now is not the time to be on the water. In addition to higher-than-normal flow, there’s also the potential for more debris in the water, which poses a significant risk to anyone on the Missouri. It’s best to wait until levels return to normal to resume regular activities.”

Excessive rainfall in eastern South Dakota, northeastern Nebraska and northwestern Iowa has resulted in flooding, road closures and evacuations in affected areas. Officials on both sides of the river have been closely monitoring conditions along the river and its tributaries since late last week

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;-- Governor Jim Pillen and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds have issued a joint request for people to remain off the Missouri River in the coming days, as water levels continue to surpass flood stage. That urgent message comes following the latest update from emergency management officials and representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.Governors Pillen and Reynolds stressed the seriousness of the situation, and the need to remain informed and make safety a priority:“Now is not the time to be on the water. In addition to higher-than-normal flow, there’s also the potential for more debris in the water, which poses a significant risk to anyone on the Missouri. It’s best to wait until levels return to normal to resume regular activities.”Excessive rainfall in eastern South Dakota, northeastern Nebraska and northwestern Iowa has resulted in flooding, road closures and evacuations in affected areas. Officials on both sides of the river have been closely monitoring conditions along the river and its tributaries since late last week

Governors Pillen & Reynolds Issue Joint Request to Stay Off Missouri River

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is acting proactively to mitigate the impact of any flooding that happens along the Missouri River. Today, he declared a state of emergency for those counties that abut the river, which will immediately free up state funds and resources, should the need arise. The proclamation confers authority to Nebraska’s Adjutant General to activate those resources, to protect lives and property.

Heavy rain in southeast South Dakota, northeast Nebraska and northwest Iowa has resulted in severe flooding. Over the weekend, Gov. Pillen authorized the deployment of a military helicopter and four-member National Army Guard crew to assist the Iowa National Guard in search and rescue operations in and around Sioux City.&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen continues to receive updates from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the U.S. Corps of Engineers as to the status of the Missouri River. Both agencies are closely monitoring the impact to communities as the water’s crest continues downstream in the coming days.

The Governor's proclamation is included with this release.

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is acting proactively to mitigate the impact of any flooding that happens along the Missouri River. Today, he declared a state of emergency for those counties that abut the river, which will immediately free up state funds and resources, should the need arise. The proclamation confers authority to Nebraska’s Adjutant General to activate those resources, to protect lives and property.Heavy rain in southeast South Dakota, northeast Nebraska and northwest Iowa has resulted in severe flooding. Over the weekend, Gov. Pillen authorized the deployment of a military helicopter and four-member National Army Guard crew to assist the Iowa National Guard in search and rescue operations in and around Sioux City.&nbsp;Gov. Pillen continues to receive updates from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the U.S. Corps of Engineers as to the status of the Missouri River. Both agencies are closely monitoring the impact to communities as the water’s crest continues downstream in the coming days.The Governor's proclamation is included with this release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719321870274.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>