OMAHA, NEBRASKA June 24, 2024 — As the busy Fourth of July holiday week gets closer, the American Red Cross asks donors to be a powerful force for good by giving blood now and in the weeks to come. You can be the difference between someone's storm and their sunshine. Donors are critically needed right now after a sharp decrease in donations since late spring. All blood types are needed, especially donors giving type O blood and those giving platelets.&nbsp;

Full summer calendars and holiday plans may prevent regular donors from being able to give. Additionally, significant summer weather threats such as hurricanes, flooding and tornadoes can result in travel hazards and blood drive cancellations that could impact the blood supply. Help keep lifesaving blood products stocked on hospital shelves and book a time to give blood by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.  &nbsp;

The Red Cross has teamed up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of TWISTERS to help avoid a summer blood shortage. All who come to give blood or platelets July 1-31 will get a Fandango Movie Ticket* by email. Plus, those who come to give July 1-14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind TWISTERS and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last. BONUS: Those who come to give blood in July will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn®. See <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BjlOKn5gyoDa2kcQadnKwq4nHaJIVBj6JyDTQaACstC5JZqGT2UchUTRmRn760JA7pu4HrwCUJ8i4NL7cFO1NQ-3D497D_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ2NABxUG8T7GNyg4FKGQBpI4iLODBp2OCN5iIZ2QQ6MHYPG4PEKIst8xdd2i7S1iTBbcEdA7mBjpH9UNvg7px-2BWNOToxb6dtrpoODOjIqmS0Pa-2F3OU-2FH6Bi7XL-2B5XqQZ2ii0o-2FQ3K882XEgU6rA7qv0-3D">RedCrossBlood.org/Twisters</a> for full details.&nbsp;

Swarms of tornadoes and extreme flooding in recent months have tragically taken lives and destroyed entire communities. Most recently, millions of people have endured one of the longest lasting and strongest heat waves in years, including large portions of the Midwest. Unfortunately, in states like Arkansas, Ohio, Iowa and Nebraska, many communities are still picking up the pieces and recovering from the second most active tornado season on record, according to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Red Cross is grateful to have partners like Universal Pictures who are not only lending this support to encourage blood donations during this critical time of year but have also generously donated to help support disaster relief,” said Jennifer Pipa, vice president of Disaster Programs for the Red Cross. “Because of the climate crisis, the Red Cross is now launching twice as many relief operations for major disasters than we did a decade ago. And disasters are not only straining our relief operations but also our ability to collect lifesaving blood donations. So far this year we have collected 20,000 fewer blood donations due to severe weather.”&nbsp;

In just the first five months of the year, the Red Cross has responded to 20 tornado related disasters across 13 states. Unfortunately, meteorologists expect more powerful and destructive storms to continue in the months to come as the effects of the climate crisis continue. This year’s outlook is part of a years-long trend of more frequent and intense climate disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, severe storms and floods.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Be a force of nature this summer. Give blood or make a financial donation to the Red Cross by visiting <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2Fv2XUpxZVb1dwWXf-2BE6AbM6HczruLPJ6kTOYA5vhinSmC1WE1S8luDvM6SrC74dkt003MlGYFWSHveWPFX6q6jFmd-2FpChL2dzDEuDPGOgnsVeUgd06lPRkshSJF-2F9-2FCKEaATfZGM9t2zf6OPHn777U-3DjuEQ_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ8ezivfxiAq8A4Um-2BIxr2tqVnSwj2yce-2FQsNonhfi0rolk6QAy-2BPnNz-2F7zyVdtKzT8BZkFNXqB6MzBNAy1-2FmhB-2FteofWhzF6S-2FcvTnIawFOC67-2FNuyEaWz98zT4CyCdIQNIOpcCK8wbifD0X-2FoYEFAo-3D">RedCross.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdf62MlpTpw2kgmE3KG0fqSAjRGqvNlUFj0Dj7hYDgnaqHphB_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ3HT9aSgMfRuUChYkzWsJAdPtWI0bQOWPnYUE2eKJYPQxBixRatciCOwhu-2BofgDXgh1JMaJjkhTLsliK3qtPO0LrZnkeXt-2BJOSnXiKPHb7kyG6kU1IjRPvcg72JUu7S0ASQeJBrl4Jm3JQCmWQ6wQXQ-3D">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.&nbsp;

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BjlOKn5gyoDa2kcQadnKwoRE4oLheHyfEN41-2BiLyps3d0kGbNtVRHNMBTiiP26vimqWOErSTyRaIeTfQM38mrVya5z7PYDxqeJbreQz-2Be2t_nFE_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJyq-2Fnt3bfqZy2IHm0ylds4-2BjnAVSs0Nv9e-2BUAjsFTXwq3STtyGNvaNe5Bf-2Bec3LI-2BCMAa8cCvypoA1V-2FkRPGg-2F9wKlnLsKAocF-2BK-2FU2-2F6R1ArioizhGohiJByGaDjrCIZLP1hwqirwxZk8IVd8M5dRg-3D">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a> or use the Blood Donor App.&nbsp;

About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUwwybZoOB-2BvKUl99z4ea04F4kK4_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ-2FbEusrXU8-2BpteYz6zkcog2fiHjtetTxOiFg34FnSAHdn56xNWmvBI8ur4Z30F-2FjU-2F8HySqXjVbM-2FTxZKZBQPTDg6HR0osQSlZ-2BxGZ-2FBx4eIiTYJnba8B0JiQ4wjFjkQMwP8b3RbvFWeo-2BOHrbzG22c-3D">redcross.org</a> or <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdZCpBS8hc66RWakFg9GcSpVk3u-2BevSeOtR5S8POS15xykvrG_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ5B5gdNSFrdPhh0njnZeo9-2FtAKMokv4dqMhc2lw-2FZRx99w9JhxOvdN4IKJqQTohGdSt4dhHP9bvryLgwX7rU88P0lclf3s-2FTlBZV6k0TovZqbZoGLBc5gQj2yHVbYQ4ZLtsdpEOcfkBwwsjzpARAYMg-3D">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.&nbsp;

American Red CrossOMAHA, NEBRASKA June 24, 2024 — As the busy Fourth of July holiday week gets closer, the American Red Cross asks donors to be a powerful force for good by giving blood now and in the weeks to come. You can be the difference between someone's storm and their sunshine. Donors are critically needed right now after a sharp decrease in donations since late spring. All blood types are needed, especially donors giving type O blood and those giving platelets.&nbsp;Full summer calendars and holiday plans may prevent regular donors from being able to give. Additionally, significant summer weather threats such as hurricanes, flooding and tornadoes can result in travel hazards and blood drive cancellations that could impact the blood supply. Help keep lifesaving blood products stocked on hospital shelves and book a time to give blood by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.  &nbsp;The Red Cross has teamed up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of TWISTERS to help avoid a summer blood shortage. All who come to give blood or platelets July 1-31 will get a Fandango Movie Ticket* by email. Plus, those who come to give July 1-14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind TWISTERS and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last. BONUS: Those who come to give blood in July will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn®. See <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BjlOKn5gyoDa2kcQadnKwq4nHaJIVBj6JyDTQaACstC5JZqGT2UchUTRmRn760JA7pu4HrwCUJ8i4NL7cFO1NQ-3D497D_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ2NABxUG8T7GNyg4FKGQBpI4iLODBp2OCN5iIZ2QQ6MHYPG4PEKIst8xdd2i7S1iTBbcEdA7mBjpH9UNvg7px-2BWNOToxb6dtrpoODOjIqmS0Pa-2F3OU-2FH6Bi7XL-2B5XqQZ2ii0o-2FQ3K882XEgU6rA7qv0-3D">RedCrossBlood.org/Twisters</a> for full details.&nbsp;Swarms of tornadoes and extreme flooding in recent months have tragically taken lives and destroyed entire communities. Most recently, millions of people have endured one of the longest lasting and strongest heat waves in years, including large portions of the Midwest. Unfortunately, in states like Arkansas, Ohio, Iowa and Nebraska, many communities are still picking up the pieces and recovering from the second most active tornado season on record, according to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Red Cross is grateful to have partners like Universal Pictures who are not only lending this support to encourage blood donations during this critical time of year but have also generously donated to help support disaster relief,” said Jennifer Pipa, vice president of Disaster Programs for the Red Cross. “Because of the climate crisis, the Red Cross is now launching twice as many relief operations for major disasters than we did a decade ago. And disasters are not only straining our relief operations but also our ability to collect lifesaving blood donations. So far this year we have collected 20,000 fewer blood donations due to severe weather.”&nbsp;In just the first five months of the year, the Red Cross has responded to 20 tornado related disasters across 13 states. Unfortunately, meteorologists expect more powerful and destructive storms to continue in the months to come as the effects of the climate crisis continue. This year’s outlook is part of a years-long trend of more frequent and intense climate disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, severe storms and floods.&nbsp;&nbsp;Be a force of nature this summer. Give blood or make a financial donation to the Red Cross by visiting <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2Fv2XUpxZVb1dwWXf-2BE6AbM6HczruLPJ6kTOYA5vhinSmC1WE1S8luDvM6SrC74dkt003MlGYFWSHveWPFX6q6jFmd-2FpChL2dzDEuDPGOgnsVeUgd06lPRkshSJF-2F9-2FCKEaATfZGM9t2zf6OPHn777U-3DjuEQ_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ8ezivfxiAq8A4Um-2BIxr2tqVnSwj2yce-2FQsNonhfi0rolk6QAy-2BPnNz-2F7zyVdtKzT8BZkFNXqB6MzBNAy1-2FmhB-2FteofWhzF6S-2FcvTnIawFOC67-2FNuyEaWz98zT4CyCdIQNIOpcCK8wbifD0X-2FoYEFAo-3D">RedCross.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;How to donate blood&nbsp;Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdf62MlpTpw2kgmE3KG0fqSAjRGqvNlUFj0Dj7hYDgnaqHphB_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ3HT9aSgMfRuUChYkzWsJAdPtWI0bQOWPnYUE2eKJYPQxBixRatciCOwhu-2BofgDXgh1JMaJjkhTLsliK3qtPO0LrZnkeXt-2BJOSnXiKPHb7kyG6kU1IjRPvcg72JUu7S0ASQeJBrl4Jm3JQCmWQ6wQXQ-3D">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.&nbsp;Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BjlOKn5gyoDa2kcQadnKwoRE4oLheHyfEN41-2BiLyps3d0kGbNtVRHNMBTiiP26vimqWOErSTyRaIeTfQM38mrVya5z7PYDxqeJbreQz-2Be2t_nFE_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJyq-2Fnt3bfqZy2IHm0ylds4-2BjnAVSs0Nv9e-2BUAjsFTXwq3STtyGNvaNe5Bf-2Bec3LI-2BCMAa8cCvypoA1V-2FkRPGg-2F9wKlnLsKAocF-2BK-2FU2-2F6R1ArioizhGohiJByGaDjrCIZLP1hwqirwxZk8IVd8M5dRg-3D">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a> or use the Blood Donor App.&nbsp;About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUwwybZoOB-2BvKUl99z4ea04F4kK4_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ-2FbEusrXU8-2BpteYz6zkcog2fiHjtetTxOiFg34FnSAHdn56xNWmvBI8ur4Z30F-2FjU-2F8HySqXjVbM-2FTxZKZBQPTDg6HR0osQSlZ-2BxGZ-2FBx4eIiTYJnba8B0JiQ4wjFjkQMwP8b3RbvFWeo-2BOHrbzG22c-3D">redcross.org</a> or <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdZCpBS8hc66RWakFg9GcSpVk3u-2BevSeOtR5S8POS15xykvrG_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5AuwILl2KL6-2BqdycAhG3-2F3NS0g4iDy6zkt57mcs-2BT048Nmzjf-2FOLf0lTDtPh44BrLfMAzf3m8ZgW4adiCC-2BzMJ5B5gdNSFrdPhh0njnZeo9-2FtAKMokv4dqMhc2lw-2FZRx99w9JhxOvdN4IKJqQTohGdSt4dhHP9bvryLgwX7rU88P0lclf3s-2FTlBZV6k0TovZqbZoGLBc5gQj2yHVbYQ4ZLtsdpEOcfkBwwsjzpARAYMg-3D">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.&nbsp;

Be a Powerful Force for Good this Summer  

Kimball, Neb. - One man has been arrested in Kimball over the weekend after making threats to family members.

According to the Kimball Police Department, in the evening hours of Saturday, June 15th, officers were dispatched for a disturbance call to the 600 block of south Burg Street.

Officers were made aware of threats Meghgy had made towards family members, along with additional threats made by the suspect.

Meghgy was placed under arrested and is being charged with terroristic threats. He is lodged in the Kimball County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719257672889.jpeg" alt="Michel Meghgy (Courtesy of Kimball Police Department)" />
 <figcaption>Michel Meghgy (Courtesy of Kimball Police Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>Panhandle PostKimball, Neb. - One man has been arrested in Kimball over the weekend after making threats to family members.According to the Kimball Police Department, in the evening hours of Saturday, June 15th, officers were dispatched for a disturbance call to the 600 block of south Burg Street.Officers were made aware of threats Meghgy had made towards family members, along with additional threats made by the suspect.Meghgy was placed under arrested and is being charged with terroristic threats. He is lodged in the Kimball County Jail.

Kimball man arrested for terroristic threats

Omaha - American technology and innovation have made our farms, our ranches, and our food processing industry more productive and efficient than ever before. But it also makes us more vulnerable to cyber and national security threats. In today's digital world, these threat actors are targeting our food and agricultural sector more and more.&nbsp;

On August 12, 2024, the FBI Omaha field office will host its second annual Agriculture &nbsp;Threats Symposium. It will take place in Omaha, Nebraska. We are inviting private sector, &nbsp;academia, industry, and government officials from the agriculture sector to attend, as well as law &nbsp;enforcement partners.&nbsp;

The free symposium is designed to provide information on cyber and national security threats to the agriculture sector in the United States and offer resources and guidance for the &nbsp;sector to become resilient against these threats. &nbsp;

To register, please visit <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/agriculture-threats-symposium-tickets-920210673897?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://lnkd.in/g2EBshne</a> and complete the registration process.&nbsp; Space is limited. Please direct any questions to AgThreatsSymposium@fbi.gov.&nbsp;

FBI Omaha Field OfficeOmaha - American technology and innovation have made our farms, our ranches, and our food processing industry more productive and efficient than ever before. But it also makes us more vulnerable to cyber and national security threats. In today's digital world, these threat actors are targeting our food and agricultural sector more and more.&nbsp;On August 12, 2024, the FBI Omaha field office will host its second annual Agriculture &nbsp;Threats Symposium. It will take place in Omaha, Nebraska. We are inviting private sector, &nbsp;academia, industry, and government officials from the agriculture sector to attend, as well as law &nbsp;enforcement partners.&nbsp;The free symposium is designed to provide information on cyber and national security threats to the agriculture sector in the United States and offer resources and guidance for the &nbsp;sector to become resilient against these threats. &nbsp;To register, please visit <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/agriculture-threats-symposium-tickets-920210673897?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://lnkd.in/g2EBshne</a> and complete the registration process.&nbsp; Space is limited. Please direct any questions to AgThreatsSymposium@fbi.gov.&nbsp;

FBI Omaha To Host Second Annual Agriculture Threats Symposium 

CHADRON – Chadron State College alum Seth Ryker, Principal of Gothenburg Public Schools, said he is honored to be named the Nebraska High School Principal of the Year.

Ryker has been in education since 2000 when he started as a sixth through eighth grade teacher at Wolfe Creek Elementary in South Dakota. He later took a position at Broken Bow Public Schools as a social studies teacher and later as the Activities Director. In 2005, he became the Activities Director and Assistant Principal at Gothenburg Junior/Senior High School. He served in that role until 2017 when he became the principal for grades seven through 12.

Ryker said he was unsure about his career choice when he enrolled at CSC.

“I took the intro to teaching course with Dr. [Don] King and quickly became convinced that I had discovered my future,” Ryker said. “Chadron State College had me very well prepared to lead a classroom. I thoroughly enjoyed all of my methodology and coaching classes.”

Ryker began work on a master’s degree in Education Administration immediately after starting his first teaching position.

“The graduate program at CSC helped develop my leadership skills, as well as further developing my educational philosophy,” he said. “I met a lot of fellow graduate students who would become great administrators in other schools. Those relationships are still impactful all these years later. I have been blessed to work with outstanding teachers and fellow administrators, many of whom are also Chadron State graduates.”

Two CSC professors stand out in Ryker’s memory as making a lasting impact on him.

“Dr. King taught many of our education classes and led the professional semester. He helped instill a sense of professionalism and classroom readiness in us. Dr. Rolland Dewing served as my academic adviser and he supervised me during student teaching. I always appreciated his sense of humor and his perspective,” Ryker said.

Ryker said the students, parents, and other teachers he works with are the most rewarding aspects of his role in education.

“The high school journey and the milestones and challenges that go with growing up and preparing for adulthood is an incredibly exciting point in their lives. I also get to collaborate with an outstanding team of teachers. I have had very few original ideas, but I do always try to listen to those around me and enact programs and interventions that support our outstanding students,” he said.

In a press release from Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals, Allison Jonas, Superintendent at Gothenburg Public Schools, said Ryker possesses a remarkable talent for engaging with teacher leaders.

“His leadership style not only promotes teamwork but also inspires a shared vision among staff. His capacity to collaborate seamlessly with teachers and support staff has led to expanded opportunities for students, collaborative opportunities for staff, and a welcoming culture with high expectations for both students and staff,” Jonas said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719245272043.jpeg" alt="Seth Ryker (Courtesy of Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Seth Ryker (Courtesy of Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Chadron State CollegeCHADRON – Chadron State College alum Seth Ryker, Principal of Gothenburg Public Schools, said he is honored to be named the Nebraska High School Principal of the Year.Ryker has been in education since 2000 when he started as a sixth through eighth grade teacher at Wolfe Creek Elementary in South Dakota. He later took a position at Broken Bow Public Schools as a social studies teacher and later as the Activities Director. In 2005, he became the Activities Director and Assistant Principal at Gothenburg Junior/Senior High School. He served in that role until 2017 when he became the principal for grades seven through 12.Ryker said he was unsure about his career choice when he enrolled at CSC.“I took the intro to teaching course with Dr. [Don] King and quickly became convinced that I had discovered my future,” Ryker said. “Chadron State College had me very well prepared to lead a classroom. I thoroughly enjoyed all of my methodology and coaching classes.”Ryker began work on a master’s degree in Education Administration immediately after starting his first teaching position.“The graduate program at CSC helped develop my leadership skills, as well as further developing my educational philosophy,” he said. “I met a lot of fellow graduate students who would become great administrators in other schools. Those relationships are still impactful all these years later. I have been blessed to work with outstanding teachers and fellow administrators, many of whom are also Chadron State graduates.”Two CSC professors stand out in Ryker’s memory as making a lasting impact on him.“Dr. King taught many of our education classes and led the professional semester. He helped instill a sense of professionalism and classroom readiness in us. Dr. Rolland Dewing served as my academic adviser and he supervised me during student teaching. I always appreciated his sense of humor and his perspective,” Ryker said.Ryker said the students, parents, and other teachers he works with are the most rewarding aspects of his role in education.“The high school journey and the milestones and challenges that go with growing up and preparing for adulthood is an incredibly exciting point in their lives. I also get to collaborate with an outstanding team of teachers. I have had very few original ideas, but I do always try to listen to those around me and enact programs and interventions that support our outstanding students,” he said.In a press release from Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals, Allison Jonas, Superintendent at Gothenburg Public Schools, said Ryker possesses a remarkable talent for engaging with teacher leaders.“His leadership style not only promotes teamwork but also inspires a shared vision among staff. His capacity to collaborate seamlessly with teachers and support staff has led to expanded opportunities for students, collaborative opportunities for staff, and a welcoming culture with high expectations for both students and staff,” Jonas said.

Gothenburg Public Schools principal Seth Ryker announced as Nebraska High School Principal of the Year

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nine-more-gov-pillen-led-property-tax-town-halls-in-central-western-nebraska-this-week/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Gov. Jim Pillen will close out the month of June with nine more town halls focused on his property tax reform ideas in western and central Nebraska.

The latest slate of town halls indicates that Pillen will complete June with “a full slate” of such events in the western and central parts of the state, including his hometown of Columbus. At week’s end, this will equate to 26 town halls.&nbsp;

The governor’s quest has been to shift or eliminate a total of about 40%, or $2 billion, of locally collected property taxes by the end of his first two years in office, adding on to efforts in 2023.&nbsp;Pillen has previewed that he’s open to the state taking on more or all of the tab for Nebraska’s 244 public school districts.

The Nebraska Department of Revenue reports that for the 2023-2024 school year, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%2012.pdf">property tax portion for school funding was $2.8 billion</a>, excluding bond taxes.

Ideas for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/05/24/gov-pillen-outlines-some-funding-levers-in-his-quest-to-lower-nebraska-property-taxes/">funding Pillen’s ideas</a>&nbsp;include eliminating&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/10/everybodys-got-to-play-breaking-down-nebraskas-more-than-100-sales-tax-exemptions/">some sales tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;possibly creating a two-tiered sales and use tax rate per dollar on purchases of certain goods or services. The rate is currently 5.5 cents. “Sins taxes” could also increase,&nbsp;such as on alcohol, cigarettes or vaping.

Pillen has not yet disclosed a specific plan of action; neither have any of the more than a dozen state senators he has been working with in Lincoln.

Last week, the governor offered a “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/17/nebraska-gov-pillen-issues-save-the-date-for-special-session-on-property-taxes/">save-the-date</a>” for senators to clear their calendars between July 26 and Aug. 15. It is the clearest indication yet for when he might call a special session, though no official call has been made.

This week’s town hall schedule is as follows:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719242173331.jpeg" alt=" Gov. Jim Pillen addresses attendees at a property tax town hall in Plattsmouth on Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Jim Pillen addresses attendees at a property tax town hall in Plattsmouth on Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nine-more-gov-pillen-led-property-tax-town-halls-in-central-western-nebraska-this-week/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Gov. Jim Pillen will close out the month of June with nine more town halls focused on his property tax reform ideas in western and central Nebraska.The latest slate of town halls indicates that Pillen will complete June with “a full slate” of such events in the western and central parts of the state, including his hometown of Columbus. At week’s end, this will equate to 26 town halls.&nbsp;The governor’s quest has been to shift or eliminate a total of about 40%, or $2 billion, of locally collected property taxes by the end of his first two years in office, adding on to efforts in 2023.&nbsp;Pillen has previewed that he’s open to the state taking on more or all of the tab for Nebraska’s 244 public school districts.The Nebraska Department of Revenue reports that for the 2023-2024 school year, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2023/annrpt2023%20table%2012.pdf">property tax portion for school funding was $2.8 billion</a>, excluding bond taxes.Ideas for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/05/24/gov-pillen-outlines-some-funding-levers-in-his-quest-to-lower-nebraska-property-taxes/">funding Pillen’s ideas</a>&nbsp;include eliminating&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/10/everybodys-got-to-play-breaking-down-nebraskas-more-than-100-sales-tax-exemptions/">some sales tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;possibly creating a two-tiered sales and use tax rate per dollar on purchases of certain goods or services. The rate is currently 5.5 cents. “Sins taxes” could also increase,&nbsp;such as on alcohol, cigarettes or vaping.Pillen has not yet disclosed a specific plan of action; neither have any of the more than a dozen state senators he has been working with in Lincoln.Last week, the governor offered a “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/17/nebraska-gov-pillen-issues-save-the-date-for-special-session-on-property-taxes/">save-the-date</a>” for senators to clear their calendars between July 26 and Aug. 15. It is the clearest indication yet for when he might call a special session, though no official call has been made.This week’s town hall schedule is as follows:Tuesday, June 25<ul>
 <li>10:30 a.m. at Phelps Memorial Health Center, 1215 Tibbals St., Holdrege.</li><li>2 p.m. at Younes Conference Center – North, 707 Talmadge St., Kearney.</li>
 </ul>Wednesday, June 26<ul>
 <li>1:30 p.m. at Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 753 33rd Ave., Columbus.</li>
 </ul>Thursday, June 27<ul>
 <li>10 a.m. at Mid-Plains Community College, 715 East Highway 20, Valentine.</li><li>1 p.m. at Chadron State College, Student Center –&nbsp;Lakota Room, 1000 Main St., Chadron.</li><li>4:30 p.m. at Westside Events Center, 2472 County Road 62, Alliance.</li>
 </ul>Friday, June 28<ul>
 <li>8:30 a.m. at Petrified Wood Gallery, 418 East 1st St., Ogallala.</li><li>1 p.m. at Coppermill Steakhouse, 202 Coppermill St., McCook.</li><li>4 p.m. at Central Community College – The Opportunity Center, 1501 Plum Creek Parkway, Lexington.</li>
 </ul>

Nine more Gov. Pillen-led property tax town halls in central, western Nebraska this week

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>

WASHINGTON — The only reason John Arthur is able to be a public school teacher is because his wife makes much more money than he does.

Arthur —&nbsp; the 2021 Utah Teacher of the Year&nbsp; — testified on Thursday at a hearing in the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions on the challenges facing public school teachers.

Arthur, who is also a member of the National Education Association and holds National Board Certification, pointed to pay as the main reason for both teachers leaving the profession and parents not wanting their children to become teachers.

“The No. 1 solution to addressing the issues we face must be increasing teachers’ salaries,” said Arthur, who teaches at Meadowlark Elementary School in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Gemayel Keyes, a teacher at Gilbert Spruance Elementary School in Philadelphia, told the committee that even as an educator, he still has an additional part-time job.

The special education teacher spent most of his career in education as a paraprofessional. At the time he moved into that role, the starting annual salary was $16,000 and the maximum was $30,000.

“It’s still pretty much the same,” he said.

Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders, a Vermont independent,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sanders.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/03.09.23-Sanders-Pay-Teachers-Act-text.pdf">introduced a bill</a>&nbsp;in March 2023 that would set an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/766/all-actions">annual base salary</a>&nbsp;of $60,000 for public elementary and secondary school teachers.

“We understand that the children, young people of this country, are our future and there is, in fact … nothing more important that we can do to provide a quality education to all of our young people, and yet, for decades, public school teachers have been overworked, underpaid, understaffed, and maybe most importantly, underappreciated,” Sanders said in his opening remarks.

“Compared to many other occupations, our public school teachers are more likely to experience high levels of anxiety, stress and burnout, which was only exacerbated by the pandemic,” he said.

Sanders said 44% of public school teachers are quitting their profession within five years, citing “the extremely low pay teachers receive” as one of the primary reasons for a massive U.S. teacher shortage.

For the 2023-24 school year, a whopping 86% of K-12 public schools in the country documented challenges in hiring teachers, according to an October report from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nces.ed.gov/whatsnew/press_releases/10_17_2023.asp">National Center for Education Statistics</a>.

Maryland sets $60,000 minimum&nbsp;&nbsp;

But a minimum annual teacher salary of $60,000 is not far off for every state.

In Maryland, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://marylandmatters.org/2024/06/03/blueprint-blues-local-leaders-cite-school-reform-plans-progress-problems/">Blueprint for Maryland’s Future</a>&nbsp;raises the starting salary for teachers to $60,000 a year by July 2026.

William E. Kirwan, vice chair of Maryland’s Accountability and Implementation Board, said the multi-year comprehensive plan, passed in 2021 in the Maryland General Assembly, “addresses all aspects of children’s education from birth to high school completion, including most especially, the recruitment, retention and compensation of high quality teachers.”

Kirwan said the “Blueprint’s principle for teacher compensation is that, as professionals, teachers should be compensated at the same level as other professionals requiring similar levels of education, such as architects and CPAs.”

Sen. Bill Cassidy, ranking member of the committee, dubbed Democrats’ solution of creating a federal minimum salary for teachers as a “laudable goal.”

But he noted that “the federal government dictating how states spend their money does not address the root cause of why teachers are struggling to teach in the classroom.”

“More mandates and funding cannot be the only answer we come up with. We must examine broken policies that got us here and find solutions to improve,” the Louisiana Republican said.

Nicole Neily, president and founder of Parents Defending Education, a parents’ rights group, argued that “schools don’t have a resource issue” but rather an “allocation issue.”

“There’s a saying: ‘Don’t tell me where your priorities are, show me where you spend your money, and I’ll tell you what they are.’ Education leaders routinely choose to spend money on programs and personnel that don’t directly benefit students,” said Neily.

Neily pointed to a 2021 report from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.heritage.org/education/report/equity-elementary-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-staff-public-schools">Heritage Foundation</a>, which found that “standardized test results show that achievement gaps are growing wider over time in districts with (chief diversity officers).” Such staff members commonly encourage efforts at diversity, equity and inclusion in schools.

Robert Pondiscio, a senior fellow at the conservative-leaning American Enterprise Institute, said “higher pay does not ease the burden we place on teachers or add hours to their day.”

“By all means, raise teacher pay, but do not assume that it will solve teacher shortages or keep good teachers in the classroom. Poor training, deteriorating classroom conditions, shoddy curriculum and spiraling demands have made an already challenging job nearly impossible to do well and sustainably,” he added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719074599272.png" alt="John Arthur, a teacher at Meadowlark Elementary in Salt Lake City, Utah, testified before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee in Washington, D.C., on Thursday (Screenshot from committee webcast)/" />
 <figcaption>John Arthur, a teacher at Meadowlark Elementary in Salt Lake City, Utah, testified before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee in Washington, D.C., on Thursday (Screenshot from committee webcast)/</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON — The only reason John Arthur is able to be a public school teacher is because his wife makes much more money than he does.Arthur —&nbsp; the 2021 Utah Teacher of the Year&nbsp; — testified on Thursday at a hearing in the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions on the challenges facing public school teachers.Arthur, who is also a member of the National Education Association and holds National Board Certification, pointed to pay as the main reason for both teachers leaving the profession and parents not wanting their children to become teachers.“The No. 1 solution to addressing the issues we face must be increasing teachers’ salaries,” said Arthur, who teaches at Meadowlark Elementary School in Salt Lake City, Utah.Gemayel Keyes, a teacher at Gilbert Spruance Elementary School in Philadelphia, told the committee that even as an educator, he still has an additional part-time job.The special education teacher spent most of his career in education as a paraprofessional. At the time he moved into that role, the starting annual salary was $16,000 and the maximum was $30,000.“It’s still pretty much the same,” he said.<h2>Minimum teacher salary&nbsp;</h2>Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders, a Vermont independent,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sanders.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/03.09.23-Sanders-Pay-Teachers-Act-text.pdf">introduced a bill</a>&nbsp;in March 2023 that would set an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/766/all-actions">annual base salary</a>&nbsp;of $60,000 for public elementary and secondary school teachers.“We understand that the children, young people of this country, are our future and there is, in fact … nothing more important that we can do to provide a quality education to all of our young people, and yet, for decades, public school teachers have been overworked, underpaid, understaffed, and maybe most importantly, underappreciated,” Sanders said in his opening remarks.“Compared to many other occupations, our public school teachers are more likely to experience high levels of anxiety, stress and burnout, which was only exacerbated by the pandemic,” he said.Sanders said 44% of public school teachers are quitting their profession within five years, citing “the extremely low pay teachers receive” as one of the primary reasons for a massive U.S. teacher shortage.For the 2023-24 school year, a whopping 86% of K-12 public schools in the country documented challenges in hiring teachers, according to an October report from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nces.ed.gov/whatsnew/press_releases/10_17_2023.asp">National Center for Education Statistics</a>.<h2>Maryland sets $60,000 minimum&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>But a minimum annual teacher salary of $60,000 is not far off for every state.In Maryland, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://marylandmatters.org/2024/06/03/blueprint-blues-local-leaders-cite-school-reform-plans-progress-problems/">Blueprint for Maryland’s Future</a>&nbsp;raises the starting salary for teachers to $60,000 a year by July 2026.William E. Kirwan, vice chair of Maryland’s Accountability and Implementation Board, said the multi-year comprehensive plan, passed in 2021 in the Maryland General Assembly, “addresses all aspects of children’s education from birth to high school completion, including most especially, the recruitment, retention and compensation of high quality teachers.”Kirwan said the “Blueprint’s principle for teacher compensation is that, as professionals, teachers should be compensated at the same level as other professionals requiring similar levels of education, such as architects and CPAs.”<h2>An “allocation issue”&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>Sen. Bill Cassidy, ranking member of the committee, dubbed Democrats’ solution of creating a federal minimum salary for teachers as a “laudable goal.”But he noted that “the federal government dictating how states spend their money does not address the root cause of why teachers are struggling to teach in the classroom.”“More mandates and funding cannot be the only answer we come up with. We must examine broken policies that got us here and find solutions to improve,” the Louisiana Republican said.Nicole Neily, president and founder of Parents Defending Education, a parents’ rights group, argued that “schools don’t have a resource issue” but rather an “allocation issue.”“There’s a saying: ‘Don’t tell me where your priorities are, show me where you spend your money, and I’ll tell you what they are.’ Education leaders routinely choose to spend money on programs and personnel that don’t directly benefit students,” said Neily.Neily pointed to a 2021 report from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.heritage.org/education/report/equity-elementary-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-staff-public-schools">Heritage Foundation</a>, which found that “standardized test results show that achievement gaps are growing wider over time in districts with (chief diversity officers).” Such staff members commonly encourage efforts at diversity, equity and inclusion in schools.Robert Pondiscio, a senior fellow at the conservative-leaning American Enterprise Institute, said “higher pay does not ease the burden we place on teachers or add hours to their day.”“By all means, raise teacher pay, but do not assume that it will solve teacher shortages or keep good teachers in the classroom. Poor training, deteriorating classroom conditions, shoddy curriculum and spiraling demands have made an already challenging job nearly impossible to do well and sustainably,” he added.

‘Extremely low pay’ cited at U.S. Senate hearing as prime reason for teacher shortage

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/lia-chien/">LIA CHIEN</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/19/democratic-women-in-u-s-senate-target-project-2025-on-reproductive-rights/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — Senate Democrats held a press conference this week to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdf">Project 2025</a>, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trump’s political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is&nbsp; the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

“Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, they’ve given it out, to rip away a woman’s right to choose in every single state in America,” she said.

Murray addressed concerns about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">the Comstock Act</a>, a key element of Republicans’ legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/the-comstock-act-implications-for-abortion-care-nationwide/">prohibit</a>&nbsp;mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-limit-access-abortion-pill-6">rejected</a>&nbsp;an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/03/medication-abortion-accounted-63-all-us-abortions-2023-increase-53-2020">abortions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.justice.gov/olc/opinion/application-comstock-act-mailing-prescription-drugs-can-be-used-abortions">determined</a>&nbsp;it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesday’s press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

“We don’t need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books,” Mitchell said,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/17/us/politics/trump-allies-abortion-restrictions.html">quoted</a>&nbsp;in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">introduce</a>&nbsp;legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesday’s event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

“Just let me make it very clear,” said Murray. “Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.”

Schumer slammed Republicans for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-republicans-reject-democrats-bill-ivf-protections">blocking</a>&nbsp;Duckworth’s IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00197.htm">received</a>&nbsp;48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

“In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism,” said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.murray.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/HLA24625.pdf">Reproductive Freedom for Women Act</a>, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should “enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law,” Schumer said.

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trump’s appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in November’s elections.

“Every judge we confirm makes a difference,” she said. “We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.”

During Trump’s first term, he appointed three&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/nominations/SupremeCourtNominations1789present.htm">justices</a>&nbsp;to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/09/26/trump-legacy-supreme-court-422058">significant</a>&nbsp;in writing opinions far beyond Trump’s time in office.

Senators at Tuesday’s event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

“Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception,” Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

“This isn’t about protecting life,” said Hirono. “This is about power and control and the Republicans’ obsession with controlling women’s bodies.”

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about women’s rights but don’t vote to protect them.

“When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they won’t lift a finger to protect women in this country,” she said.

Murray vowed to protect women’s rights no matter the outcome of November’s election.

“We are fighting back,” said Murray. “We’re doing everything we can to protect women’s rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718886172392.png" alt="Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/lia-chien/">LIA CHIEN</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/19/democratic-women-in-u-s-senate-target-project-2025-on-reproductive-rights/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — Senate Democrats held a press conference this week to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdf">Project 2025</a>, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trump’s political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is&nbsp; the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.“Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, they’ve given it out, to rip away a woman’s right to choose in every single state in America,” she said.<h2>Comstock Act</h2>Murray addressed concerns about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">the Comstock Act</a>, a key element of Republicans’ legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/the-comstock-act-implications-for-abortion-care-nationwide/">prohibit</a>&nbsp;mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-limit-access-abortion-pill-6">rejected</a>&nbsp;an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.Abortion pills accounted for 63% of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/03/medication-abortion-accounted-63-all-us-abortions-2023-increase-53-2020">abortions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.justice.gov/olc/opinion/application-comstock-act-mailing-prescription-drugs-can-be-used-abortions">determined</a>&nbsp;it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesday’s press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.“We don’t need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books,” Mitchell said,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/17/us/politics/trump-allies-abortion-restrictions.html">quoted</a>&nbsp;in the New York Times.In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">introduce</a>&nbsp;legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.Murray told reporters at Tuesday’s event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.“Just let me make it very clear,” said Murray. “Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.”<h2>IVF legislation</h2>Schumer slammed Republicans for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-republicans-reject-democrats-bill-ivf-protections">blocking</a>&nbsp;Duckworth’s IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00197.htm">received</a>&nbsp;48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.“In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism,” said Schumer.Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.murray.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/HLA24625.pdf">Reproductive Freedom for Women Act</a>, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should “enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law,” Schumer said.<h2>Trump appointments</h2>The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trump’s appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in November’s elections.“Every judge we confirm makes a difference,” she said. “We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.”During Trump’s first term, he appointed three&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/nominations/SupremeCourtNominations1789present.htm">justices</a>&nbsp;to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/09/26/trump-legacy-supreme-court-422058">significant</a>&nbsp;in writing opinions far beyond Trump’s time in office.<h2>Planned Parenthood</h2>Senators at Tuesday’s event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.“Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception,” Hirono said.Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.“This isn’t about protecting life,” said Hirono. “This is about power and control and the Republicans’ obsession with controlling women’s bodies.”Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about women’s rights but don’t vote to protect them.“When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they won’t lift a finger to protect women in this country,” she said.Murray vowed to protect women’s rights no matter the outcome of November’s election.“We are fighting back,” said Murray. “We’re doing everything we can to protect women’s rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.”

Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen issued a statement about the new Nebraska law requiring online pornographers to verify the age of people consuming their obscene content.

Pornhub, one of the world’s busiest online purveyors of pornography, announced it will go dark in Nebraska when the law goes into effect next month.

“To the news that one of the world’s busiest porn traffickers will shut down in Nebraska, I say: ‘good riddance.’ I was proud to sign LB1092 into law and am grateful for Sen. Dave Murman’s leadership on this issue. This is a great development for the protection of our kids, culture, and values. Our kids already face too many threats from Big Tech and the obscene content industry. Having one fewer outlet trying to sexualize their childhood is a good thing for their futures and a good thing for Nebraska.”

The new anti-obscenity law, the Online Age Verification Liability Act, LB1092, goes into effect July 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskaexaminer.com%2F2024%2F06%2F20%2Fpornhub-intends-to-ban-nebraska-users-after-passage-of-lb-1092%2F%3Femci%3D267bb025-862e-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096%26emdi%3Dde7c503b-f42e-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096%26ceid%3D393734&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjim.buehler%40nebraska.gov%7C805e0885cdcf449a8bb608dc915e942b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638545082594480972%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=6MjtwxaP0vAk%2F6STNJ4z6NnRGZPEkcnEkTyMju%2BbUjs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Pornhub intends to ban Nebraska users after passage of LB 1092 • Nebraska Examiner</a>

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen issued a statement about the new Nebraska law requiring online pornographers to verify the age of people consuming their obscene content.Pornhub, one of the world’s busiest online purveyors of pornography, announced it will go dark in Nebraska when the law goes into effect next month.“To the news that one of the world’s busiest porn traffickers will shut down in Nebraska, I say: ‘good riddance.’ I was proud to sign LB1092 into law and am grateful for Sen. Dave Murman’s leadership on this issue. This is a great development for the protection of our kids, culture, and values. Our kids already face too many threats from Big Tech and the obscene content industry. Having one fewer outlet trying to sexualize their childhood is a good thing for their futures and a good thing for Nebraska.”The new anti-obscenity law, the Online Age Verification Liability Act, LB1092, goes into effect July 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraskaexaminer.com%2F2024%2F06%2F20%2Fpornhub-intends-to-ban-nebraska-users-after-passage-of-lb-1092%2F%3Femci%3D267bb025-862e-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096%26emdi%3Dde7c503b-f42e-ef11-86d2-6045bdd9e096%26ceid%3D393734&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjim.buehler%40nebraska.gov%7C805e0885cdcf449a8bb608dc915e942b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638545082594480972%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=6MjtwxaP0vAk%2F6STNJ4z6NnRGZPEkcnEkTyMju%2BbUjs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Pornhub intends to ban Nebraska users after passage of LB 1092 • Nebraska Examiner</a>

Governor Jim Pillen Issues Statement on News that Pornhub will shut down in Nebraska

A mountain lion was killed by a member of the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office the evening of June 19 at a subdivision just north of Scottsbluff.

The mountain lion, twice spotted Wednesday in the Scotts Bluff Country Club subdivision that surrounds a golf course, was shot because it was an immediate threat to the public.

Sam Wilson, carnivore and furbearer program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, said the mountain lion was a 1½-year-old male, ear-tagged as part of the state’s research efforts. He said 1½ years is the age young males begin dispersing from their mothers to find their own territory and potential mates.

The mountain lion first was seen and reported by a resident about 1:50 p.m. Mountain time. Scotts Bluff County law enforcement and Game and Parks conservation officers and wildlife biologists searched but were unable to find the animal. Another resident, southwest from the original sighting, reported seeing the mountain lion at about 7 p.m. Officers responded, removing the animal for the safety of the public.

A mountain lion was killed by a member of the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office the evening of June 19 at a subdivision just north of Scottsbluff.The mountain lion, twice spotted Wednesday in the Scotts Bluff Country Club subdivision that surrounds a golf course, was shot because it was an immediate threat to the public.Sam Wilson, carnivore and furbearer program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, said the mountain lion was a 1½-year-old male, ear-tagged as part of the state’s research efforts. He said 1½ years is the age young males begin dispersing from their mothers to find their own territory and potential mates.The mountain lion first was seen and reported by a resident about 1:50 p.m. Mountain time. Scotts Bluff County law enforcement and Game and Parks conservation officers and wildlife biologists searched but were unable to find the animal. Another resident, southwest from the original sighting, reported seeing the mountain lion at about 7 p.m. Officers responded, removing the animal for the safety of the public.

Mountain lion removed from Scottsbluff subdivision

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/20/nu-regents-approve-inflationary-tuition-increases-millions-in-cuts-for-2024-25-budget/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The University of Nebraska Board of Regents voted 5-2 Thursday to approve next year’s budget with inflationary tuition increases meant to help wipe out a lingering budget deficit.

The approved&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraska.edu/docs/board/agendas/Agenda%206-20-24%20with%20Materials.pdf">$1.1 billion state-aided budget</a>, made up of taxpayer dollars and tuition, will raise the cost of attendance between 3.2% and 3.4% across NU’s campuses. Campus leaders will need to find an additional $11.8 million to cut from their budgets in the next year, too, after cutting about $30 million in the past two fiscal years. Cuts haven’t been identified yet.

An additional $3.1 million that has bubbled up because of inflation will not be reallocated to the campuses and must be absorbed by next summer as well.

Interim NU President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as NU’s chief financial officer, said the “reasonable” steps are expected to end an approximate $50 million budget deficit that NU has been looking to close for about 18 months.

“We could have stuck our head in the sand, but instead we dealt with it,” said Regent Tim Clare of Lincoln, who was board chair in 2023 when the most recent cuts began.

Tuition ‘somewhat of a double hit’&nbsp;

Campus chancellors, student regents and many elected regents joined Kabourek to defend&nbsp; the tuition increases, arguing they still kept rates affordable compared to other Big Ten universities.&nbsp;

Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City said she could have supported smaller tuition increases, but not when families are already paying more on everything, including in state dollars to NU.&nbsp;

“To me, the families have already chipped in because they’re paying the taxes and things that we turn to the Legislature and everybody for,” Wilmot said. “Then, when we ask those students from those families to chip in again, I feel that’s somewhat of a double hit.”

Regents voted to increase tuition across the board 3.5% in 2023 for the first time in multiple years, after they had voted to keep rates flat for three years during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regent Jim Scheer of Norfolk, a former speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, said tuition is a small part of the total NU budget (about 34%). He said the increases “may not be fair, Kathy, but that’s life.”

“I do think it’s only equitable that the students and their families participate in those additional funds because they’re going to receive the direct benefit,” Scheer said.

Scheer added that Nebraskans would benefit generally from the increased investments, such as through improved medical, legal or accounting services.

The other “no” vote came from Regent Rob Schafer of Beatrice, the board chair, who said the university shouldn’t fund any diversity, equity or inclusion initiatives or programs, especially as other degree opportunities and employment positions are eliminated.

Schafer said he’d like all DEI-related funding to be invested in teaching or research.

“We need to recruit and have folks — diversity — here, but we shouldn’t be using tax dollars to fund and promote certain races or genders above others,” Schafer said. “It ought to be a fair and level and equal playing field for all.”

Asked whether he’s seen the promotion of one race or gender at NU campuses, Schafer said: “Just the fact that we have funding and we’re promoting different things, I think there’s some things that we could just do better.”

Roughly $1 million of the $1.1 billion state-aided budget is annually spent on such programs, or about 0.1%, according to an NU spokesperson. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln cut $800,000 from its Office of Diversity and Inclusion last year, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney similarly cut $90,000 from its budget.

Campus chancellors said the funding is used for diversity offices but also to support students or staff who might be first generation, veterans, active military or have disabilities, as examples.

UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett told regents that “as we think about our future in light of the environment that we’re in,” his campus is in ongoing talks about how to reimagine DEI-related work.

Bennett told the Examiner this is about how UNL can approach modifications or additions that might help the campus better serve its community. It’s too early to know what that will look like, he said, adding that “everything is sort of up for consideration,” including reductions or reprioritizing funds.

“I’d like for us to be positioned in an offensive mode as opposed to playing defense,” Bennett said.

State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislature’s Education Committee, sought to prohibit DEI-related funding at Nebraska colleges this year. Kabourek, on behalf of NU, testified against the bill. It never advanced from committee.

Bennett said the programs will continue to belong at UNL as students must be prepared to understand different multicultural, socioeconomic, geographic, racial and ethnic backgrounds.

“I think for our students to really be competitive and be job ready on Day One, having some appreciation in being able to embrace the workforce is really going to be important,” Bennett said.

Several regents and Kabourek said the budget could mean a renewed focus on investments rather than the cuts and tuition increases that have defined past budget cycles.&nbsp;

One such investment, through taxpayer dollars, will be $15 million for recruiting and operating costs for the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex at UNK.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/more-of-nebraskas-top-test-scorers-choose-nu-for-new-presidential-scholars-program/">Presidential Scholars Program</a>&nbsp;is also slated to expand through a $1.5 million investment to support 50 students each year. The program, launched in February, covers the cost of attendance for Nebraska resident students who ace the 36-point ACT or score similarly on the SAT. These students also receive an annual $5,000 stipend and campus-led programming.

Seventeen students will be part of the first class this fall, and NU expects to launch an application process for students who score a 32-35 on the ACT to apply beginning next year.

“We want every young person who has a dream to think about how the University of Nebraska can help them pursue that,” Kabourek said.

The balanced budget, a top goal for the interim president, should give President-elect Jeffrey Gold a “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/13/nu-proposes-inflationary-tuition-increases-to-help-close-budget-deficit/#:~:text=Proposed%20tuition%20increases%20would%20gather,for%20average%2015%2Dcredit%20semesters.">clean slate</a>” to focus on his own priorities when he takes office July 1. The current UNMC chancellor and NU chief academic officer will take the helm with $1.5 million under his belt for priorities of his choosing.

Gold said new donors want a structurally balanced budget to invest in excellence and not help NU dig out of difficult recurring financial challenges, and he said the new budget “sets that stage.”

He signaled that competing for readmittance into the Association of American Universities will remain a top goal that NU will win in the end.

“Indeed, coming at this with a structurally sound budget, coming at it with an opportunity to invest in excellence, is relatively precedent-setting among the 70-some odd institutions that are currently members of the AAU,” Gold said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718976956548.jpeg" alt=" Interim University of Nebraska President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as the university’s chief financial officer, leads his final regents meeting that includes approval of NU’s 2024-25 operating budget. June 20, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Interim University of Nebraska President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as the university’s chief financial officer, leads his final regents meeting that includes approval of NU’s 2024-25 operating budget. June 20, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/20/nu-regents-approve-inflationary-tuition-increases-millions-in-cuts-for-2024-25-budget/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The University of Nebraska Board of Regents voted 5-2 Thursday to approve next year’s budget with inflationary tuition increases meant to help wipe out a lingering budget deficit.The approved&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraska.edu/docs/board/agendas/Agenda%206-20-24%20with%20Materials.pdf">$1.1 billion state-aided budget</a>, made up of taxpayer dollars and tuition, will raise the cost of attendance between 3.2% and 3.4% across NU’s campuses. Campus leaders will need to find an additional $11.8 million to cut from their budgets in the next year, too, after cutting about $30 million in the past two fiscal years. Cuts haven’t been identified yet.An additional $3.1 million that has bubbled up because of inflation will not be reallocated to the campuses and must be absorbed by next summer as well.Interim NU President Chris Kabourek, who concurrently serves as NU’s chief financial officer, said the “reasonable” steps are expected to end an approximate $50 million budget deficit that NU has been looking to close for about 18 months.“We could have stuck our head in the sand, but instead we dealt with it,” said Regent Tim Clare of Lincoln, who was board chair in 2023 when the most recent cuts began.<h2>Tuition ‘somewhat of a double hit’&nbsp;</h2>Campus chancellors, student regents and many elected regents joined Kabourek to defend&nbsp; the tuition increases, arguing they still kept rates affordable compared to other Big Ten universities.&nbsp;Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City said she could have supported smaller tuition increases, but not when families are already paying more on everything, including in state dollars to NU.&nbsp;“To me, the families have already chipped in because they’re paying the taxes and things that we turn to the Legislature and everybody for,” Wilmot said. “Then, when we ask those students from those families to chip in again, I feel that’s somewhat of a double hit.”Regents voted to increase tuition across the board 3.5% in 2023 for the first time in multiple years, after they had voted to keep rates flat for three years during the COVID-19 pandemic.Regent Jim Scheer of Norfolk, a former speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, said tuition is a small part of the total NU budget (about 34%). He said the increases “may not be fair, Kathy, but that’s life.”“I do think it’s only equitable that the students and their families participate in those additional funds because they’re going to receive the direct benefit,” Scheer said.Scheer added that Nebraskans would benefit generally from the increased investments, such as through improved medical, legal or accounting services.<h2>Opposition to DEI initiatives, programs</h2>The other “no” vote came from Regent Rob Schafer of Beatrice, the board chair, who said the university shouldn’t fund any diversity, equity or inclusion initiatives or programs, especially as other degree opportunities and employment positions are eliminated.Schafer said he’d like all DEI-related funding to be invested in teaching or research.“We need to recruit and have folks — diversity — here, but we shouldn’t be using tax dollars to fund and promote certain races or genders above others,” Schafer said. “It ought to be a fair and level and equal playing field for all.”Asked whether he’s seen the promotion of one race or gender at NU campuses, Schafer said: “Just the fact that we have funding and we’re promoting different things, I think there’s some things that we could just do better.”Roughly $1 million of the $1.1 billion state-aided budget is annually spent on such programs, or about 0.1%, according to an NU spokesperson. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln cut $800,000 from its Office of Diversity and Inclusion last year, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney similarly cut $90,000 from its budget.Campus chancellors said the funding is used for diversity offices but also to support students or staff who might be first generation, veterans, active military or have disabilities, as examples.<h2>‘Offensive mode’ to prepare students</h2>UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett told regents that “as we think about our future in light of the environment that we’re in,” his campus is in ongoing talks about how to reimagine DEI-related work.Bennett told the Examiner this is about how UNL can approach modifications or additions that might help the campus better serve its community. It’s too early to know what that will look like, he said, adding that “everything is sort of up for consideration,” including reductions or reprioritizing funds.“I’d like for us to be positioned in an offensive mode as opposed to playing defense,” Bennett said.State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislature’s Education Committee, sought to prohibit DEI-related funding at Nebraska colleges this year. Kabourek, on behalf of NU, testified against the bill. It never advanced from committee.Bennett said the programs will continue to belong at UNL as students must be prepared to understand different multicultural, socioeconomic, geographic, racial and ethnic backgrounds.“I think for our students to really be competitive and be job ready on Day One, having some appreciation in being able to embrace the workforce is really going to be important,” Bennett said.<h2>Budget investments</h2>Several regents and Kabourek said the budget could mean a renewed focus on investments rather than the cuts and tuition increases that have defined past budget cycles.&nbsp;One such investment, through taxpayer dollars, will be $15 million for recruiting and operating costs for the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex at UNK.The&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/more-of-nebraskas-top-test-scorers-choose-nu-for-new-presidential-scholars-program/">Presidential Scholars Program</a>&nbsp;is also slated to expand through a $1.5 million investment to support 50 students each year. The program, launched in February, covers the cost of attendance for Nebraska resident students who ace the 36-point ACT or score similarly on the SAT. These students also receive an annual $5,000 stipend and campus-led programming.Seventeen students will be part of the first class this fall, and NU expects to launch an application process for students who score a 32-35 on the ACT to apply beginning next year.“We want every young person who has a dream to think about how the University of Nebraska can help them pursue that,” Kabourek said.<h2>Next NU president starts July 1</h2>The balanced budget, a top goal for the interim president, should give President-elect Jeffrey Gold a “<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/13/nu-proposes-inflationary-tuition-increases-to-help-close-budget-deficit/#:~:text=Proposed%20tuition%20increases%20would%20gather,for%20average%2015%2Dcredit%20semesters.">clean slate</a>” to focus on his own priorities when he takes office July 1. The current UNMC chancellor and NU chief academic officer will take the helm with $1.5 million under his belt for priorities of his choosing.Gold said new donors want a structurally balanced budget to invest in excellence and not help NU dig out of difficult recurring financial challenges, and he said the new budget “sets that stage.”He signaled that competing for readmittance into the Association of American Universities will remain a top goal that NU will win in the end.“Indeed, coming at this with a structurally sound budget, coming at it with an opportunity to invest in excellence, is relatively precedent-setting among the 70-some odd institutions that are currently members of the AAU,” Gold said.

NU Regents approve inflationary tuition increases, millions in cuts for 2024-25 budget

HALL COUNTY, Neb. —Authorities investigating a a deadly attempted robbery at a highway rest area in Nebraska have identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, according to the Hall County, Nebraska Sheriff's office.

James Thompson, Jr., 22,&nbsp;Elyria, Ohio, is being held in the Hall County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, robbery, fleeing in a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and traffic violations.

Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp;

First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old Gary Weaver and a 71-year-old Mary Weaver both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; Gary Weaver died of his injuries and Mary Weaver was reported in critical condition..

Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and arrested Thompson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718978922466.png" alt="Thompson photo Hall Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Thompson photo Hall Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>HALL COUNTY, Neb. —Authorities investigating a a deadly attempted robbery at a highway rest area in Nebraska have identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, according to the Hall County, Nebraska Sheriff's office.James Thompson, Jr., 22,&nbsp;Elyria, Ohio, is being held in the Hall County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, robbery, fleeing in a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and traffic violations.Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp;First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old Gary Weaver and a 71-year-old Mary Weaver both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; Gary Weaver died of his injuries and Mary Weaver was reported in critical condition..Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and arrested Thompson.

Sheriff IDs Mo. couple in deadly knife attack at Nebraska highway rest area

DAMASCUS —A U.S. airstrike in Syria killed a Senior ISIS Official, according to a statement Wednesday from the U.S. Central Command.

On June 16, U.S. Central Command conducted an airstrike in Syria, killing Usamah Jamal Muhammad Ibrahim al-Janabi, a senior ISIS official and facilitator. His death will disrupt ISIS’s ability to resource and conduct terror attacks.

CENTCOM, alongside allies and partners in the region, will continue to execute operations to degrade ISIS operational capabilities and ensure its enduring defeat.

There is no indication any civilians were harmed in this strike.

In addition, U.S. forces destroyed a ground control station, command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.according to a statement from U.S. Central Command.

DAMASCUS —A U.S. airstrike in Syria killed a Senior ISIS Official, according to a statement Wednesday from the U.S. Central Command.On June 16, U.S. Central Command conducted an airstrike in Syria, killing Usamah Jamal Muhammad Ibrahim al-Janabi, a senior ISIS official and facilitator. His death will disrupt ISIS’s ability to resource and conduct terror attacks.CENTCOM, alongside allies and partners in the region, will continue to execute operations to degrade ISIS operational capabilities and ensure its enduring defeat.There is no indication any civilians were harmed in this strike.In addition, U.S. forces destroyed a ground control station, command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.according to a statement from U.S. Central Command.

U.S. Airstrike in Syria kills senior ISIS official

JUNE 19, 2024 (GRAND ISLAND, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a California man following a pursuit with a stolen vehicle in central Nebraska.

At approximately 12:45 a.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed a Jeep speeding at over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Grand Island, at mile marker 321. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield and accelerated. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

Near mile marker 293, the Hall County Sheriff’s Office successfully deployed stop sticks to slow the vehicle. The Jeep eventually came to a stop in the median and the driver fled on foot. The vehicle was determined to have been stolen out of Ohio.

Troopers and Buffalo County deputies searched the area. Using a thermal drone, troopers were able to locate the driver in the I-80 ditch. The driver, Thomas Hernandez, 33, of Fullerton, California, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and theft by unlawful taking. He was lodged in Hall County Corrections.

Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolJUNE 19, 2024 (GRAND ISLAND, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a California man following a pursuit with a stolen vehicle in central Nebraska.At approximately 12:45 a.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed a Jeep speeding at over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Grand Island, at mile marker 321. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield and accelerated. The trooper initiated a pursuit.Near mile marker 293, the Hall County Sheriff’s Office successfully deployed stop sticks to slow the vehicle. The Jeep eventually came to a stop in the median and the driver fled on foot. The vehicle was determined to have been stolen out of Ohio.Troopers and Buffalo County deputies searched the area. Using a thermal drone, troopers were able to locate the driver in the I-80 ditch. The driver, Thomas Hernandez, 33, of Fullerton, California, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and theft by unlawful taking. He was lodged in Hall County Corrections.###

California Man Arrested In Central Nebraska After Pursuit with Stolen Vehicle

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is announcing the appointments made to boards and commissions from January 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024.

A list of current board and commission openings can be found on the Governor’s website (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>), along with instructions for completing an application.

Advisory Committee on Developmental Disabilities

Cathy Clark-Martinez, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mark Shriver, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brent Hoffman, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lisa Lunz, Wakefield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bradley Lubben, Eagle&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Daniel Thiele, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virlyn Bolte, Henderson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards

Roger Figard, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russell Kreachbaum Jr., Central City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Quentin Brown, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barbara Pretends Eagle, Winnebago&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Susan Baker, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

County Attorney Standards Advisory Council

Breanna Flaherty, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Robert Bowen, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brian Kruse, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is announcing the appointments made to boards and commissions from January 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024.A list of current board and commission openings can be found on the Governor’s website (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>), along with instructions for completing an application.Advisory Committee on Developmental DisabilitiesCathy Clark-Martinez, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Shriver, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kristen Larsen, LincolnBrent Hoffman, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashley Hansen, Bertrand&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning Farmer BoardWade Thornburg, Pickrell&nbsp;&nbsp;Lisa Lunz, Wakefield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bradley Lubben, Eagle&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brit Anderson, GothenburgJohn Walvoord, Waterloo&nbsp;&nbsp;Board of Barber ExaminersTara Sterns, LincolnBoard of Engineers and ArchitectsBrett Foley, DentonDaniel Thiele, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brian Kelly, OmahaBoard of Examiners for Land SurveyorsVirlyn Bolte, Henderson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mary Pro, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeremy Feusner, HoldregeBoard of Public Roads Classifications and StandardsBrandon Varilek, RaymondRoger Figard, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell Kreachbaum Jr., Central City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Steven Rames, WayneBoiler Safety Code Advisory BoardSteven Bley, NehawkaCoalition for Juvenile JusticeNandi Kumondan, Lincoln&nbsp;Commission on African American AffairsQuentin Brown, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Malinda Williams, Omaha&nbsp;Dorothy Johnson, Omaha&nbsp;Commission on Indian AffairsKyle Taylor, NorfolkSidney Tuttle Sr., NiobraraBarbara Pretends Eagle, Winnebago&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Susan Baker, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;William Johnson Jr., ElkhornCounty Attorney Standards Advisory CouncilBreanna Flaherty, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Robert Bowen, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marvin Kohout, DorchesterElizabeth Waterman, LexingtonDouglas County Election CommissionerBrian Kruse, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Education Commission of the StatesJohn Spatz, LincolnMichael Baumgartner, LincolnEnhanced Wireless 911 Advisory BoardJames Davidsaver, LincolnBenjamin Backus, Gering&nbsp;Neil Miller, KearneyWilliam Muldoon, OmahaEnvironmental Quality CouncilJill Becker, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;Lynn Mayhew, Grand Island&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;James Theiler, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lisa Lunz, Wakefield&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brad Bird, Blair&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allison Willis, OmahaMarty Stange, JuniataKurt Bogner, Norfolk&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seth Harder, Plainview&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Game and Parks CommissionDonna Kush, OmahaInvestment CouncilGail Werner-Robertson, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;Judicial Nominating Commission for the County and District Courts - 6th Judicial DistrictScott Olson, Tekamah&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Les Shallberg, Fremont&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Judicial Nominating Commission for the District Court – 10th&nbsp;Judicial DistrictKathy Tessman, HastingsJena Cerveny, HastingsRobert Butz, HoldregeJudicial Nominating Commission for the Worker's Compensation CourtJoesph Wilcox, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeanette Jackson, ColumbusMichael Selk, Oakland&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kathryn Eidenmiller, LincolnNatural Resources CommissionJohn Shadle, Columbus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rick Kubat, OmahaBradley Dunbar, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scott Smathers, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stanley Clouse, Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp;Kennon Meyer, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Larry Mohrman, ColumbusNebraska Aeronautics CommissionThomas Trumble, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;Jon Large, Bennet&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Arts CouncilJeanne Salerno, OmahaNebraska Board of GeologistsRyan Morgan, Chadron&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Caroline Burberry, LincolnNebraska Brand CommitteeBrenda Masek, PurdumChristopher Gentry, HyannisNebraska Capitol CommissionKatherine Spohn, Friend&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually ImpairedPatricia Schonlau, Bellevue&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Miguel Rocha, Scottsbluff&nbsp;Brent Heyen, LincolnNebraska Commission on Problem GamblingKelly Lambert, Trumbull&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cameron Arch, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Claudia Moore, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Todd Zohner, StantonDan Volnek, LincolnPaul Leckband, NorfolkNebraska Council on Developmental DisabilitiesJoe Valenti, OmahaBrent Hoffman, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashley Hansen, Bertrand&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Commission of Industrial RelationsSpencer Hartman, Lincoln&nbsp;Nebraska Commission on Latino-AmericansAida Evans, Hastings&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaime Suarez, OmahaNebraska Crime CommissionSteven Russell, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryan Waugh, Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Todd Schmaderer, OmahaKevin Spencer, Gering&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawn Eatherton, KearneyJeffrey Davis, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thomas McBride, LincolnNebraska Nuclear and Hydrogen Industry Work Group – Hydrogen IndustryJennifer Kroger, LincolnNebraska Real Property Appraiser BoardDerek Minshull, North PlatteNebraska State Board of Public AccountancyDonald Neal Jr., Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Melissa Ruff, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Council for the Interstate Compact for Adult Offender SupervisionSally Reinhardt-Stewart, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska State Electrical BoardMichael Hunsberger, Broken BowDon Gerjevic, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stephen Farrington, ElkhornNebraska State Historical SocietyJack Berg, BridgeportPolice Standards Advisory CouncilSteven Reeves, North Platte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jason Stille, LincolnPostsecondary EducationDeborah Frison, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Timothy Daniels, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;Dennis Headrick, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;LeDonna Griffin, OmahaPublic Employees Retirement BoardJanis Elliott, Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Riparian Vegetation Management Task ForceMichael Reed, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Larry Heyen, Ceresco&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeff Kanger, LincolnLance Philben, Long Pine&nbsp;Andrew Tonnies, North Bend&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brad Edgerton, CambridgeKatheryn Hickle, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Athletic CommissionAaron Hendry, Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Board of HealthJ Paul Cook, OmahaBrett Lindau, Broken Bow&nbsp;Connie Lynn Peterson, Hastings&nbsp;Jeffery Wienke, Raymond&nbsp;State College System Board of TrusteesChristopher Jennings, O'NeillState Racing and Gaming CommissionHelen Abbott Feller, WisnerState Records BoardSean Blocher, Elkhorn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Maloley, OmahaStudent Trustee – State College SystemBraxton Dalton, Raymond&nbsp;Cayla Schuster, Peru&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alec Langan, ChadronTax Equalization and Review CommissionSteven Keetle, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jacqueline Russell, HastingsVeterans Advisory CommissionJohn Liebsack, Omaha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;