NEW YORK —Former U.S. President Donald&nbsp; Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call Friday regarding the ongoing War with Russia and the possibility of Future Peace Negotiations. 

On his social media page, Trump wrote, " President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and I had a very good phone call earlier today. He congratulated me on a very successful Republican National Convention and becoming the Republican nominee for President of the United States."

"He condemned the heinous assassination attempt last Saturday and remarked about the American people coming together in the spirit of Unity during these times"

"I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families. Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."

According to Zelenskyy' social media account of the call, "I spoke with Donald Trump&nbsp;to congratulate him on the Republican nomination and condemn the shocking assassination attempt in Pennsylvania."

"I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future.

I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation's freedom and independence.
 
Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day.

We agreed with President Trump to discuss at a personal meeting what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714052496496.png" alt="File photo Donald Trump courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo Donald Trump courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK —Former U.S. President Donald&nbsp; Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call Friday regarding the ongoing War with Russia and the possibility of Future Peace Negotiations. On his social media page, Trump wrote, " President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and I had a very good phone call earlier today. He congratulated me on a very successful Republican National Convention and becoming the Republican nominee for President of the United States.""He condemned the heinous assassination attempt last Saturday and remarked about the American people coming together in the spirit of Unity during these times""I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families. Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."According to Zelenskyy' social media account of the call, "I spoke with Donald Trump&nbsp;to congratulate him on the Republican nomination and condemn the shocking assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.""I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future.

I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation's freedom and independence.
 
Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day.

We agreed with President Trump to discuss at a personal meeting what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."

Trump, reports "very good phone call" from Ukraine President 

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/owners-of-four-more-ne-vape-shops-stores-selling-delta-8-settle-with-ag/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers on Thursday announced legal settlements against four more shops he described as selling mislabeled and “dangerous” THC-containing products.&nbsp;

“We appreciate that these stores did the right thing and took these products off the shelves,” Hilgers said in a media statement. “Our fight continues, and more lawsuits will be filed as we broaden our campaign.”

According to the attorney general, the four stores agreed not to sell prohibited hemp products that contain or have been modified with synthetic THC. He said that includes delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC and delta-10 THC modified through chemical processes.&nbsp;

All four stores were given 14 days to turn over remaining prohibited products for destruction.

They would face financial penalties for breach of the agreement.

The latest settlements join two others announced last month. The retailers were among those targeted in 11 state lawsuits filed in 2023 against vape shops and businesses across the state.&nbsp;

Hilgers alleged violations of consumer protection and deceptive trade practices laws.

Some of the THC-containing products involved were packaged and made to look like candy and snacks. THC is the compound in the cannabis plant most commonly associated with getting a person high.

Hilgers has pledged to try to close legal loopholes around delta-8, which opened when the 2018 farm bill opened up the hemp farming industry nationally. The bill limited delta-9 THC but did not address regulation of delta-8. States have been grappling with that loophole.

A legislative bill introduced earlier this year by State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner included more explicit language banning delta-8 products — but stalled.&nbsp;

Hilgers on Thursday repeated his stance that the products pose a health risk and have sent some Nebraskans, including children, to the hospital. Buyers and sellers of delta-8 products call such concerns a scare tactic.

“We encourage retailers to stop selling these products, whether they have been sued yet or not — our campaign will continue until the industry is cleaned up,” Hilgers said.

“It took several years for these stores to pop up,” he told the Examiner. “It’s going to take us a little time to sort of reverse the tide, but we are building momentum and we’re getting more victories as we go.”

Lawsuits against the four stores were filed in the District Courts of Dawes (Greenhouse Grandma), Keith (First Stop Vape Shop), Lincoln (A Botanical Dream), and Scotts Bluff (Zy Glam) Counties. The complaints alleged violations of the Consumer Protection Act, Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act and Nebraska’s Pure Food Act.

Nebraska Examiner calls to shop owners were not immediately returned. The website of Greenhouse Grandma indicated that its physical Chadron store site has closed.

Nebraska Examiner reporter Zach Wendling contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721417448606.jpeg" alt="Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers holds a press conference in October 2023 on what he called a major, unprecedented consumer protection action in the state targeting “deceptive” labeling of delta-8 products. (Courtesy of Nebraska Attorney General’s Office)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers holds a press conference in October 2023 on what he called a major, unprecedented consumer protection action in the state targeting “deceptive” labeling of delta-8 products. (Courtesy of Nebraska Attorney General’s Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/owners-of-four-more-ne-vape-shops-stores-selling-delta-8-settle-with-ag/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers on Thursday announced legal settlements against four more shops he described as selling mislabeled and “dangerous” THC-containing products.&nbsp;“We appreciate that these stores did the right thing and took these products off the shelves,” Hilgers said in a media statement. “Our fight continues, and more lawsuits will be filed as we broaden our campaign.”According to the attorney general, the four stores agreed not to sell prohibited hemp products that contain or have been modified with synthetic THC. He said that includes delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC and delta-10 THC modified through chemical processes.&nbsp;All four stores were given 14 days to turn over remaining prohibited products for destruction.They would face financial penalties for breach of the agreement.The latest settlements join two others announced last month. The retailers were among those targeted in 11 state lawsuits filed in 2023 against vape shops and businesses across the state.&nbsp;Hilgers alleged violations of consumer protection and deceptive trade practices laws.Some of the THC-containing products involved were packaged and made to look like candy and snacks. THC is the compound in the cannabis plant most commonly associated with getting a person high.Hilgers has pledged to try to close legal loopholes around delta-8, which opened when the 2018 farm bill opened up the hemp farming industry nationally. The bill limited delta-9 THC but did not address regulation of delta-8. States have been grappling with that loophole.A legislative bill introduced earlier this year by State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner included more explicit language banning delta-8 products — but stalled.&nbsp;Hilgers on Thursday repeated his stance that the products pose a health risk and have sent some Nebraskans, including children, to the hospital. Buyers and sellers of delta-8 products call such concerns a scare tactic.“We encourage retailers to stop selling these products, whether they have been sued yet or not — our campaign will continue until the industry is cleaned up,” Hilgers said.“It took several years for these stores to pop up,” he told the Examiner. “It’s going to take us a little time to sort of reverse the tide, but we are building momentum and we’re getting more victories as we go.”Lawsuits against the four stores were filed in the District Courts of Dawes (Greenhouse Grandma), Keith (First Stop Vape Shop), Lincoln (A Botanical Dream), and Scotts Bluff (Zy Glam) Counties. The complaints alleged violations of the Consumer Protection Act, Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act and Nebraska’s Pure Food Act.Nebraska Examiner calls to shop owners were not immediately returned. The website of Greenhouse Grandma indicated that its physical Chadron store site has closed.Nebraska Examiner reporter Zach Wendling contributed to this story.

Owners of four more NE vape shops, stores selling delta-8 settle with AG

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One and told reporters traveling with him, “I feel good.” The president was not wearing a mask as he walked onto Air Force One.

The president had previously been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he was greeting diners and sat for an interview with Univision.

Biden has been vaccinated and is current on his recommended annual booster dose for COVID-19. The vaccines have proven highly effective at limiting serious illness and death from the virus, which killed more than 1 million people in the U.S. since the pandemic began in 2020. Paxlovid has been proven to curtail the chances of serious illness and death from COVID-19 when prescribed in the early days of an infection, but has also been associated with rebound infections, where the virus comes back a few days after clearing up.

Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022, when he had a primary case and a rebound case of the virus.

Health officials have reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19. There has also been a pronounced increase in positive test results in much of the country —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">particularly the southwestern U.S.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330265336.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721431566073.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One and told reporters traveling with him, “I feel good.” The president was not wearing a mask as he walked onto Air Force One.The president had previously been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he was greeting diners and sat for an interview with Univision.Biden has been vaccinated and is current on his recommended annual booster dose for COVID-19. The vaccines have proven highly effective at limiting serious illness and death from the virus, which killed more than 1 million people in the U.S. since the pandemic began in 2020. Paxlovid has been proven to curtail the chances of serious illness and death from COVID-19 when prescribed in the early days of an infection, but has also been associated with rebound infections, where the virus comes back a few days after clearing up.Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022, when he had a primary case and a rebound case of the virus.Health officials have reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19. There has also been a pronounced increase in positive test results in much of the country —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">particularly the southwestern U.S.</a>

Read Friday update from Biden's doctor on the President's  COVID recovery

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/no-turns-on-steady-red-arrows-begins-friday-new-nebraska-law-mirrors-federal-standard/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A new Nebraska law clarifies that drivers can’t legally turn right on steady red arrows in the state, which mirrors standards that had already been in place nationwide.

On Friday, a legal change offered this spring by the Nebraska Department of Transportation officially brought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Transportation/Traffic-Engineering/Traffic-Signals" target="_blank">state traffic signal laws</a>&nbsp;to the same level as the federal Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The federal manual specifies no right turns on steady red arrows, or left turns if turning onto a one-way street.

“It only deals with arrows,” Jeni Campana, Nebraska DOT’s public relations manager, said this week. “It does not deal with ‘a red ball,’ as we refer to it.”

“If you’re still facing a red ball and there’s no additional signage that states ‘No turn on red,’ then you’re still permitted to take a right turn on red after stopping,” added Dan Carpenter, manager of traffic engineering for Lincoln Transportation and Utilities.

All drivers must come to a complete stop when they see a red arrow until they get an indication they can proceed. Drivers stopped at a red ball can proceed once it is safe to do so.

Lincoln had a city ordinance specifying the pattern years ago before the Nebraska Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/state-v-albarenga_2022.pdf">invalidated the ordinance</a>&nbsp;in 2022.

Nebraskans might still see signs specifying they can’t turn on red at certain intersections, and Carpenter said some will remain “as primarily a driver education tool.” However, others might come down.

Any new steady red arrow traffic signal will prohibit turns on red even if there is no signage.

LTU Director Elizabeth Elliot, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Transcripts/Transportation/2024-02-13.pdf" target="_blank">February legislative hearing</a>, said her team would step up education efforts to inform drivers about the change if it was adopted. State Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=54807" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 966</a>&nbsp;on the department’s behalf.

The traffic signal change was amended into&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55163" target="_blank">LB 1200</a>, which&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11095" target="_blank">passed 47-0</a>.

The law also clarifies use of flashing yellow arrows, which had been mostly used in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island and along the state highway system. Lincoln has had the change for about six to seven years.

Carpenter said the signal means drivers can enter an intersection to turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic or conflicting pedestrians. Green arrows indicate a safe right of way.

When faced with a steady yellow arrow, drivers should complete their turn if they have legally entered the intersection or wait until the next signal to proceed.

“Drivers took a while to get used to it, but now it’s extensively deployed throughout the city and we think that there’s a good impact to safety,” Carpenter said.

Carpenter said the changes will aid drivers’ safety but they should still buckle up, pay attention and look for others on Nebraska roadways.

“I think the big thing for drivers is simplifying the driving experience and unifying the rules,” Carpenter said of the law change. “We think that’s a great benefit for the drivers of Nebraska.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721418130712.jpeg" alt="A traffic light in downtown Lincoln displays a steady red arrow. Similar to left-turn lanes, Nebraska drivers can’t legally turn right if there is a red arrow showing. July 19, 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>A traffic light in downtown Lincoln displays a steady red arrow. Similar to left-turn lanes, Nebraska drivers can’t legally turn right if there is a red arrow showing. July 19, 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/no-turns-on-steady-red-arrows-begins-friday-new-nebraska-law-mirrors-federal-standard/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A new Nebraska law clarifies that drivers can’t legally turn right on steady red arrows in the state, which mirrors standards that had already been in place nationwide.On Friday, a legal change offered this spring by the Nebraska Department of Transportation officially brought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Transportation/Traffic-Engineering/Traffic-Signals" target="_blank">state traffic signal laws</a>&nbsp;to the same level as the federal Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The federal manual specifies no right turns on steady red arrows, or left turns if turning onto a one-way street.“It only deals with arrows,” Jeni Campana, Nebraska DOT’s public relations manager, said this week. “It does not deal with ‘a red ball,’ as we refer to it.”“If you’re still facing a red ball and there’s no additional signage that states ‘No turn on red,’ then you’re still permitted to take a right turn on red after stopping,” added Dan Carpenter, manager of traffic engineering for Lincoln Transportation and Utilities.All drivers must come to a complete stop when they see a red arrow until they get an indication they can proceed. Drivers stopped at a red ball can proceed once it is safe to do so.Lincoln had a city ordinance specifying the pattern years ago before the Nebraska Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/state-v-albarenga_2022.pdf">invalidated the ordinance</a>&nbsp;in 2022.Nebraskans might still see signs specifying they can’t turn on red at certain intersections, and Carpenter said some will remain “as primarily a driver education tool.” However, others might come down.Any new steady red arrow traffic signal will prohibit turns on red even if there is no signage.LTU Director Elizabeth Elliot, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Transcripts/Transportation/2024-02-13.pdf" target="_blank">February legislative hearing</a>, said her team would step up education efforts to inform drivers about the change if it was adopted. State Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=54807" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 966</a>&nbsp;on the department’s behalf.The traffic signal change was amended into&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55163" target="_blank">LB 1200</a>, which&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11095" target="_blank">passed 47-0</a>.The law also clarifies use of flashing yellow arrows, which had been mostly used in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island and along the state highway system. Lincoln has had the change for about six to seven years.Carpenter said the signal means drivers can enter an intersection to turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic or conflicting pedestrians. Green arrows indicate a safe right of way.When faced with a steady yellow arrow, drivers should complete their turn if they have legally entered the intersection or wait until the next signal to proceed.“Drivers took a while to get used to it, but now it’s extensively deployed throughout the city and we think that there’s a good impact to safety,” Carpenter said.Carpenter said the changes will aid drivers’ safety but they should still buckle up, pay attention and look for others on Nebraska roadways.“I think the big thing for drivers is simplifying the driving experience and unifying the rules,” Carpenter said of the law change. “We think that’s a great benefit for the drivers of Nebraska.”

No turns on steady red arrows begins Friday; new Nebraska law mirrors federal standard

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>

Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.

Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.

The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.

CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.

“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.

The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.

The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.

Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.

“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.

Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.

By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.

Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398046262.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

IT glitch causing delays in flights, business operations globally

(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— High speeds are on the rise across Nebraska roadways. The Nebraska State Patrol is urging motorists to slow down to keep all travelers safe.

In June, Nebraska State Troopers issued over 100 citations for speeding at 100 miles per hour or more. That marks the fourth straight month of triple-digit citations for triple-digit speeds.

“The excessively high speeds we’re seeing on Nebraska roadways increase the risk of crashes for everyone on the road,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our Troopers continue working hard to address the issue, but the easiest solution is for all motorists to drive responsibly.”

In the last ten years, the monthly average of citations for 100+ MPH speeds has more than doubled, from an average of 45 per month in 2015 to 98 per month in 2024.

“Every time you get behind the wheel, drive with others in mind,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Slow down and keep your fellow travelers safe.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cites speeding as one of the major factors in fatality crashes across the country. Speeding was a contributing factor in 29 percent of traffic fatalities in 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398095379.jpeg" alt="NSP trooper pulled over a Dodge Challenger (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)" />
 <figcaption>NSP trooper pulled over a Dodge Challenger (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— High speeds are on the rise across Nebraska roadways. The Nebraska State Patrol is urging motorists to slow down to keep all travelers safe.In June, Nebraska State Troopers issued over 100 citations for speeding at 100 miles per hour or more. That marks the fourth straight month of triple-digit citations for triple-digit speeds.“The excessively high speeds we’re seeing on Nebraska roadways increase the risk of crashes for everyone on the road,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our Troopers continue working hard to address the issue, but the easiest solution is for all motorists to drive responsibly.”In the last ten years, the monthly average of citations for 100+ MPH speeds has more than doubled, from an average of 45 per month in 2015 to 98 per month in 2024.<div><style type="text/css">
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<table class="tg"><thead>
 <tr>
 <th class="tg-8d3w">Year</th>
 <th class="tg-8d3w">Monthly Average</th>
 </tr></thead>
<tbody>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-gct1">2015</td>
 <td class="tg-gct1">45</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-gct1">2016</td>
 <td class="tg-gct1">55</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2017</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">60</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2018</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">57</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2019</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">50</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2020</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">90</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2021</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">73</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2022</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">78</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2023</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">91</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2024 YTD</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">98</td>
 </tr>
</tbody></table></div>“Every time you get behind the wheel, drive with others in mind,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Slow down and keep your fellow travelers safe.”The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cites speeding as one of the major factors in fatality crashes across the country. Speeding was a contributing factor in 29 percent of traffic fatalities in 2022.

Troopers Urge Slower Speeds as Summer Flies By

Aaron Sanderford <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/ben-sasse-resigns-his-university-of-florida-presidency-after-wifes-condition-worsens/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — Former Nebraska U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse announced Thursday he was stepping down as president of the University of Florida to help his family cope with his wife’s worsening health.&nbsp;

Sasse, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ufl.edu/2024/07/sasse-announces-resignation/#:~:text=University%20of%20Florida%20President%20Ben%20Sasse%20announced%20today%20that%20he,search%20for%20a%20new%20president." target="_blank">statement from the University of Florida</a>, said he was no longer able to meet the time demands of leading a top national university and be there for his family.

His wife, Melissa, has been dealing with the after-effects of strokes suffered in 2007. She was recently diagnosed with epilepsy and has struggled with memory issues, Sasse said.

He said he and his wife have been spending a lot of late nights discussing “what matters most,” with two daughters in college and a son “just turning 13.” They decided he should step back.&nbsp;

“Gator Nation needs a president who can keep charging hard,” he said. “Melissa deserves a husband who can pull his weight, and my kids need a dad who can be home many more nights.”

Sasse, who previously led Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska, resigned his post as Nebraska’s junior U.S. senator in January 2023 to take the position at Florida, which he said could revolutionize one of his pet projects,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/01/04/nebraskas-ben-sasse-looking-forward-to-shaping-future-of-work-at-florida/">the “future of work.”</a>

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen appointed his predecessor, Pete Ricketts, to replace Sasse. Ricketts is now running to serve out the final two years of Sasse’s six-year term, which he won in 2020.

Sasse rose to national prominence as a Senate candidate by criticizing fellow conservatives for talking about repealing Obamacare without specifying how they would replace it.

He kept that willingness to buck the GOP at several moments, although his votes typically sided with his party. He got crosswise at times with former President Donald Trump.

But Sasse won re-election to the Senate by a larger margin than Trump.&nbsp;

In Florida, Sasse has survived pushback from parts of his campus resistant to a conservative senator leading the flagship university in the nation’s third most populous state.

His wife’s health was part of why some of his supporters&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/03/16/nu-leadership-choice-was-deadlocked-between-unmc-chancellor-and-state-chamber-head/">pressed the University of Nebraska</a>&nbsp;to consider him when NU had an open presidency, with some hinting he might want to return home.

Sasse said he and his family will stay in Gainesville, Fla., where he says he will serve as a professor and president emeritus.&nbsp;

Mori Hosseini, who chairs Florida’s Board of Trustees, credited Sasse for his leadership on the national and international stage.&nbsp; Hosseini said Sasse’s work benefited Florida students and the state.

The board announced that it would work quickly to hire an interim president and begin another search for Sasse’s permanent replacement. A majority of the university’s trustees have been appointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Sasse thanked the university community for embracing his family. He said he needed to step back for a bit to “walk arm-in-arm with my dearest friend more hours of every week.”

“She kept our family grounded while I missed too many family dinners, little league games, hugs, and tears,” he said of his wife. “She’s the strongest person I know.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564937419455.png" alt="Ben Sasse" />
 <figcaption>Ben Sasse</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/ben-sasse-resigns-his-university-of-florida-presidency-after-wifes-condition-worsens/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — Former Nebraska U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse announced Thursday he was stepping down as president of the University of Florida to help his family cope with his wife’s worsening health.&nbsp;Sasse, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ufl.edu/2024/07/sasse-announces-resignation/#:~:text=University%20of%20Florida%20President%20Ben%20Sasse%20announced%20today%20that%20he,search%20for%20a%20new%20president." target="_blank">statement from the University of Florida</a>, said he was no longer able to meet the time demands of leading a top national university and be there for his family.His wife, Melissa, has been dealing with the after-effects of strokes suffered in 2007. She was recently diagnosed with epilepsy and has struggled with memory issues, Sasse said.He said he and his wife have been spending a lot of late nights discussing “what matters most,” with two daughters in college and a son “just turning 13.” They decided he should step back.&nbsp;“Gator Nation needs a president who can keep charging hard,” he said. “Melissa deserves a husband who can pull his weight, and my kids need a dad who can be home many more nights.”<h2>Sasse’s Nebraska roots</h2>Sasse, who previously led Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska, resigned his post as Nebraska’s junior U.S. senator in January 2023 to take the position at Florida, which he said could revolutionize one of his pet projects,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/01/04/nebraskas-ben-sasse-looking-forward-to-shaping-future-of-work-at-florida/">the “future of work.”</a>Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen appointed his predecessor, Pete Ricketts, to replace Sasse. Ricketts is now running to serve out the final two years of Sasse’s six-year term, which he won in 2020.Sasse rose to national prominence as a Senate candidate by criticizing fellow conservatives for talking about repealing Obamacare without specifying how they would replace it.He kept that willingness to buck the GOP at several moments, although his votes typically sided with his party. He got crosswise at times with former President Donald Trump.But Sasse won re-election to the Senate by a larger margin than Trump.&nbsp;<h2>Pushback on campus</h2>In Florida, Sasse has survived pushback from parts of his campus resistant to a conservative senator leading the flagship university in the nation’s third most populous state.His wife’s health was part of why some of his supporters&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/03/16/nu-leadership-choice-was-deadlocked-between-unmc-chancellor-and-state-chamber-head/">pressed the University of Nebraska</a>&nbsp;to consider him when NU had an open presidency, with some hinting he might want to return home.Sasse said he and his family will stay in Gainesville, Fla., where he says he will serve as a professor and president emeritus.&nbsp;Mori Hosseini, who chairs Florida’s Board of Trustees, credited Sasse for his leadership on the national and international stage.&nbsp; Hosseini said Sasse’s work benefited Florida students and the state.The board announced that it would work quickly to hire an interim president and begin another search for Sasse’s permanent replacement. A majority of the university’s trustees have been appointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.Sasse thanked the university community for embracing his family. He said he needed to step back for a bit to “walk arm-in-arm with my dearest friend more hours of every week.”“She kept our family grounded while I missed too many family dinners, little league games, hugs, and tears,” he said of his wife. “She’s the strongest person I know.”&nbsp;

Ben Sasse resigns his University of Florida presidency after wife’s condition worsens

(KEARNEY, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance of the NSP SWAT Team and the TRIDENT and CODE Task Forces, have arrested multiple people after locating numerous firearms and controlled substances this morning in an ongoing narcotics investigation.

This morning, the NSP SWAT Team and the TRIDENT Task Force performed a search warrant at a residence in the 2500 block of 8th&nbsp;Avenue in Kearney. During the search, investigators located 12 firearms, approximately 11 pounds of marijuana, 1 gram of cocaine, 4 pounds of THC wax concentrate, and 4 dozen psilocybin mushroom candy bars.&nbsp; The investigation linked the involved suspects to a secondary location in Funk.

In a coordinated effort, the CODE Task Force served a simultaneous search warrant at a residence in the 200 block of Main Street in Funk. During the search, investigators located an additional five firearms and a small amount of marijuana products and psilocybin mushrooms. One of the residents, Dakota Hancock, 29, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled substance. He was lodged in the Phelps County Jail.

Investigators subsequently located the Kearney resident, Shane Martin, 36, at his place of employment and placed him under arrest. Martin was lodged in the Buffalo County Jail for possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute within a school zone and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

NSP was assisted by the UNK Police Department and other TRIDENT Task Force agencies, including the Kearney Police Department, Minden Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI. The CODE Task Force includes officers from several police agencies in southwest and west-central Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721388421904.jpeg" alt="Shane Martin (Buffalo County Jail)" />
 <figcaption>Shane Martin (Buffalo County Jail)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(KEARNEY, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance of the NSP SWAT Team and the TRIDENT and CODE Task Forces, have arrested multiple people after locating numerous firearms and controlled substances this morning in an ongoing narcotics investigation.This morning, the NSP SWAT Team and the TRIDENT Task Force performed a search warrant at a residence in the 2500 block of 8th&nbsp;Avenue in Kearney. During the search, investigators located 12 firearms, approximately 11 pounds of marijuana, 1 gram of cocaine, 4 pounds of THC wax concentrate, and 4 dozen psilocybin mushroom candy bars.&nbsp; The investigation linked the involved suspects to a secondary location in Funk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721394895577.jpeg" alt="Dakota Hancock (Courtesy of Phelps County Jail)" />
 <figcaption>Dakota Hancock (Courtesy of Phelps County Jail)</figcaption>
 </figure>In a coordinated effort, the CODE Task Force served a simultaneous search warrant at a residence in the 200 block of Main Street in Funk. During the search, investigators located an additional five firearms and a small amount of marijuana products and psilocybin mushrooms. One of the residents, Dakota Hancock, 29, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled substance. He was lodged in the Phelps County Jail.Investigators subsequently located the Kearney resident, Shane Martin, 36, at his place of employment and placed him under arrest. Martin was lodged in the Buffalo County Jail for possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute within a school zone and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.NSP was assisted by the UNK Police Department and other TRIDENT Task Force agencies, including the Kearney Police Department, Minden Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI. The CODE Task Force includes officers from several police agencies in southwest and west-central Nebraska.

Firearms, Controlled Substances Located in Narcotics Investigation in Kearney

The driver / victim has been identified as Ronald D. Ayers, age 72, of Kearney, NE.  Next of kin have been notified.  An autopsy has been ordered by the Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.  The incident involved a Union Pacific Rail Road train car and a 2014 Dodge van.  The section of highway was closed for approximately 4 hours during the investigation

Kearney, Neb. -&nbsp;The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding a single vehicle – train crash the resulted in the death of one adult male driver.&nbsp; The crash occurred at approximately 12:30 PM on Thursday July 18, 2024.&nbsp; At the time of this news media press release, public safety first responders remain the scene.&nbsp; A portion of Highway 30 at this location remains closed.&nbsp;

According to preliminary investigation, a transportation van was traveling westbound on US Highway 30 east of Cherry Ave just outside the city limits of Kearney, NE.&nbsp; At this location, a UPRR train was backing up on a railroad service track that crosses the highway.&nbsp; As the train was backing, it collided with the westbound van.&nbsp; The van, occupied by the driver and lone passenger, received significant damage.&nbsp; The driver of the van, preliminarily identified as an older male driver, was deceased at the scene.&nbsp; The only other occupant was an adult female, who reported no injury.&nbsp; The van driver was located deceased at the scene.&nbsp; Authorities are working to confirm the identity of the driver and notify next of kin.&nbsp;

Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Kearney Police Department, Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation (FAIT) team, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, CHI GSH Paramedics, Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska State Department of Roads and Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.

Next of kin have not been notified.&nbsp; Investigation is ongoing at this time.

Kearney, Neb. - Highway 30 near Eatons is closed in both directions in Kearney as first responders are on scene after a vehicle was hit by a train.

In a Facebook post from the Kearney Police Department (KPD),&nbsp;responders are on scene of a van vs train accident that has resulted in a single fatality.&nbsp;

Law enforcement is diverting traffic and Highway 30 will be closed until the investigation is complete. KPD says more information will be released once the investigation is complete.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721328621138.jpeg" alt="(Photo from Kearney Police Department)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo from Kearney Police Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>7/19/2024 Update 8:09amBuffalo County Sheriff's OfficeThe driver / victim has been identified as Ronald D. Ayers, age 72, of Kearney, NE. Next of kin have been notified. An autopsy has been ordered by the Buffalo County Attorney’s Office. The incident involved a Union Pacific Rail Road train car and a 2014 Dodge van. The section of highway was closed for approximately 4 hours during the investigation7/18/2024 Update 2:14pmBuffalo County Sheriff's OfficeKearney, Neb. -&nbsp;The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding a single vehicle – train crash the resulted in the death of one adult male driver.&nbsp; The crash occurred at approximately 12:30 PM on Thursday July 18, 2024.&nbsp; At the time of this news media press release, public safety first responders remain the scene.&nbsp; A portion of Highway 30 at this location remains closed.&nbsp;According to preliminary investigation, a transportation van was traveling westbound on US Highway 30 east of Cherry Ave just outside the city limits of Kearney, NE.&nbsp; At this location, a UPRR train was backing up on a railroad service track that crosses the highway.&nbsp; As the train was backing, it collided with the westbound van.&nbsp; The van, occupied by the driver and lone passenger, received significant damage.&nbsp; The driver of the van, preliminarily identified as an older male driver, was deceased at the scene.&nbsp; The only other occupant was an adult female, who reported no injury.&nbsp; The van driver was located deceased at the scene.&nbsp; Authorities are working to confirm the identity of the driver and notify next of kin.&nbsp;Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Kearney Police Department, Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation (FAIT) team, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, CHI GSH Paramedics, Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska State Department of Roads and Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.Next of kin have not been notified.&nbsp; Investigation is ongoing at this time.-----Original storyNorth Platte PostKearney, Neb. - Highway 30 near Eatons is closed in both directions in Kearney as first responders are on scene after a vehicle was hit by a train.In a Facebook post from the Kearney Police Department (KPD),&nbsp;responders are on scene of a van vs train accident that has resulted in a single fatality.&nbsp;Law enforcement is diverting traffic and Highway 30 will be closed until the investigation is complete. KPD says more information will be released once the investigation is complete.

One person dead after train collides with a van in Kearney

MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech

The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.

Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."

Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721382561480.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Balloon drop <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPconvention</a>. <a href="https://t.co/FebXGCL3nk">pic.twitter.com/FebXGCL3nk</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814153606767210595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump kisses the helmet of firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed during Saturday&#39;s rally. <a href="https://t.co/qdGdcwr9G9">pic.twitter.com/qdGdcwr9G9</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814133511626031333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump: “I am running to be president for all America, not half of America because there is no victory in winning for half of America. So, tonight with faith and devotion I proudly accept your nomination for president of the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HuspXIyYGL">pic.twitter.com/HuspXIyYGL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814128352028205504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MELANIATRUMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MELANIATRUMP</a> enters the Republican National Convention. <a href="https://t.co/h2GI4sZggJ">pic.twitter.com/h2GI4sZggJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814122476194156875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump Dance Cam at <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPConvention</a> <a href="https://t.co/NcHThSRH84">pic.twitter.com/NcHThSRH84</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814101438294839807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

🎥Trump urges unity after assassination attempt during RNC finale

OMAHA, NE — The Platte Institute is encouraged the proposed plan includes crucial measures such as hard caps to control local spending, state spending decreases, and the retooling of 1107 credits to fund the plan, resulting in dollar-for-dollar property tax relief for Nebraska property owners. 

Jim Vokal, CEO of the Platte Institute, stated, “We are pleased to see that the Governor’s plan aims to provide substantial property tax relief through controlled local and state spending. However, we hope that as the plan moves through the legislature, alternatives to taxing business and agricultural inputs (machinery and energy) and advertising will be considered. These taxes can lead to economic inefficiencies and increased consumer costs.” 

The Platte Institute also cautions against the reliance on cigarette tax increases as a revenue source. Vokal emphasized, “History and research show that increases in cigarette taxes can result in unreliable income due to tax avoidance. It’s essential to find stable and sustainable funding mechanisms for the property tax relief plan.” 

Additionally, the plan must address valuation increases by decreasing levy rates to completely offset the valuation hikes. This step is vital to ensure that property tax relief is meaningful and effective. 

“We applaud Governor Pillen’s goal of reducing property taxes and look forward to being a resource to policymakers and the public as this package moves through the special session,” Vokal added. 

The Platte Institute remains dedicated to promoting sustainable and effective tax reform that supports long-term fiscal responsibility and economic growth. 

Platte InstituteOMAHA, NE — The Platte Institute is encouraged the proposed plan includes crucial measures such as hard caps to control local spending, state spending decreases, and the retooling of 1107 credits to fund the plan, resulting in dollar-for-dollar property tax relief for Nebraska property owners. Jim Vokal, CEO of the Platte Institute, stated, “We are pleased to see that the Governor’s plan aims to provide substantial property tax relief through controlled local and state spending. However, we hope that as the plan moves through the legislature, alternatives to taxing business and agricultural inputs (machinery and energy) and advertising will be considered. These taxes can lead to economic inefficiencies and increased consumer costs.” The Platte Institute also cautions against the reliance on cigarette tax increases as a revenue source. Vokal emphasized, “History and research show that increases in cigarette taxes can result in unreliable income due to tax avoidance. It’s essential to find stable and sustainable funding mechanisms for the property tax relief plan.” Additionally, the plan must address valuation increases by decreasing levy rates to completely offset the valuation hikes. This step is vital to ensure that property tax relief is meaningful and effective. “We applaud Governor Pillen’s goal of reducing property taxes and look forward to being a resource to policymakers and the public as this package moves through the special session,” Vokal added. The Platte Institute remains dedicated to promoting sustainable and effective tax reform that supports long-term fiscal responsibility and economic growth.

 Platte Institute Responds to Governor Pillen’s Property Tax Plan Ahead of Special Session 

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Tesluach Gatkuoth, 27, of Grand Island, NE, was sentenced July 17, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Gatkuoth to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Gatkuoth’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.

On April 8, 2022, Omaha Police Department officers were on routine patrol in a marked patrol vehicle when they observed a gray 2003 Lexus driving eastbound on Lake Street approaching north 26th Street. The vehicle turned south onto north 25th Street and did not come to a complete stop at the stop sign at the intersection of north 25th and Grant Street. The Lexus continued through the intersection of Patrick Avenue and north 25th Street where it violated a second stop sign by failing to come a complete stop.

As the vehicle turned onto Patrick Avenue, officers attempted to stop the vehicle by initiating their patrol vehicle’s overhead lights and sirens. These emergency signals remained active as the Lexus turned southbound and sped away. The Lexus eventually stopped near 26th and Blondo Street, at which time the driver of the vehicle, Gatkuoth, fled on foot.

Gatkuoth fled across the front yard of a residence at the 26th block of Blondo Street before forcing his way through the home’s front door. As Gatkuoth entered the residence, he closed the door on the officer before continuing down into the basement and entering a room. Once inside the room, Gatkuoth closed the door behind him and remained concealed within.

An officer maintained a position on the stairway and yelled commands for Gatkuoth to reveal himself. Moments later Gatkuoth opened the door, yelled at the officer, and then casually began to go to the ground per officer commands. Gatkuoth was eventually secured in handcuffs and placed in the back of a patrol vehicle. A protective sweep of the basement was performed, and an adolescent child exited the room where Gatkuoth had entered and barricaded himself. Officers subsequently found a fully loaded 9mm handgun with high-capacity magazine and obliterated serial number hidden in the child’s clothes hamper.

A criminal history check revealed that Gatkuoth had been previously convicted of felony offenses, including robbery for which he served several years in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services beginning in 2015.

This case was investigated by&nbsp;the Omaha Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718044225844.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United States Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Tesluach Gatkuoth, 27, of Grand Island, NE, was sentenced July 17, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Gatkuoth to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Gatkuoth’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.On April 8, 2022, Omaha Police Department officers were on routine patrol in a marked patrol vehicle when they observed a gray 2003 Lexus driving eastbound on Lake Street approaching north 26th Street. The vehicle turned south onto north 25th Street and did not come to a complete stop at the stop sign at the intersection of north 25th and Grant Street. The Lexus continued through the intersection of Patrick Avenue and north 25th Street where it violated a second stop sign by failing to come a complete stop.As the vehicle turned onto Patrick Avenue, officers attempted to stop the vehicle by initiating their patrol vehicle’s overhead lights and sirens. These emergency signals remained active as the Lexus turned southbound and sped away. The Lexus eventually stopped near 26th and Blondo Street, at which time the driver of the vehicle, Gatkuoth, fled on foot.Gatkuoth fled across the front yard of a residence at the 26th block of Blondo Street before forcing his way through the home’s front door. As Gatkuoth entered the residence, he closed the door on the officer before continuing down into the basement and entering a room. Once inside the room, Gatkuoth closed the door behind him and remained concealed within.An officer maintained a position on the stairway and yelled commands for Gatkuoth to reveal himself. Moments later Gatkuoth opened the door, yelled at the officer, and then casually began to go to the ground per officer commands. Gatkuoth was eventually secured in handcuffs and placed in the back of a patrol vehicle. A protective sweep of the basement was performed, and an adolescent child exited the room where Gatkuoth had entered and barricaded himself. Officers subsequently found a fully loaded 9mm handgun with high-capacity magazine and obliterated serial number hidden in the child’s clothes hamper.A criminal history check revealed that Gatkuoth had been previously convicted of felony offenses, including robbery for which he served several years in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services beginning in 2015.This case was investigated by&nbsp;the Omaha Police Department.

Central Nebraska Man Sentenced for Unlawful Firearm Possession

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330354017.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721329858359.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Read Thurs. update from Biden's doctor on the President's health

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined state senators Lou Ann Linehan (District 39) and Robert Clements (District 2), presenting a sweeping plan for property tax reform. The entire proposal would slash property taxes paid by Nebraskans by an average of 50 percent, representing the largest property tax cut in Nebraska history. &nbsp;A copy of the plan is available on the Governor’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.

“This is unacceptable and it’s accelerating,” said Gov. Pillen. “In a few short years Nebraskans will be paying $1 million a day in property taxes. That’s $6 billion a year. Property taxes are hurting young people, our seniors, homeowners, renters, farmers, business owners. We need state senators to enter the upcoming special session with the determination to fix this issue immediately.”

During the news conference, Sen. Linehan outlined key objectives of the comprehensive tax proposal which include:

“Local spending is a significant issue when it comes to ever-rising property taxes, and one that we need to finally address,” said Sen. Linehan. “If local governments want to collect more in property taxes, then that decision should be left to taxpayers. That is flexible and that is fair. It creates a pathway for community growth, but with reasonable controls.”

Local government spending has caused property taxes to balloon by $1 billion in the last five years.

“While we call for spending restraint at the local level, we need to do the same in state government. When we talk about running government like a business, this is integral to the goal,” said Gov. Pillen. “Money saved can be directed to providing property tax reform, which is necessary to making us more competitive and ultimately, to growing Nebraska.”

In addition to expanding state funding of public schools, which would be phased in over three years, and limiting local property tax collections, cutting state expenditures is a significant and necessary feature of reducing property taxes. The plan cuts state spending by $350 million, leverages $235 million in idle cash funds, and uses federal funds to supplant general funds.

The elimination of 114 tax exemptions would generate an estimated $950 million in property tax relief. Food and medications would remain untouched, but things like cigarettes, candy, pop, games of skill and other items would be taxable, as they are in other states.

“Special interest groups have been very successful in carving out tax exemptions,” said Gov. Pillen. “Over time, they have eroded our tax base. This proposal better balances the state’s three-legged stool and broadens that base, putting the choice to spend in the hands of consumers.” &nbsp;

Further, the plan calls for retooling credits to taxpayers, so they are loaded on the front end, instead of taxpayers having to claim them on the back end. In 2022, over half of all Nebraska property taxpayers did not claim these benefits. &nbsp;

Gov. Pillen wrapped up the news conference with a call to action – requesting Nebraskans contact their state senators to support the plan.&nbsp;&nbsp; On page 10 of the published document (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.) is a QR code and email link that users can access to calculate how they will directly benefit.

<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/Exemptions-Only-List2.pdf">Exemptions Only List</a>

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined state senators Lou Ann Linehan (District 39) and Robert Clements (District 2), presenting a sweeping plan for property tax reform. The entire proposal would slash property taxes paid by Nebraskans by an average of 50 percent, representing the largest property tax cut in Nebraska history. &nbsp;A copy of the plan is available on the Governor’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.“This is unacceptable and it’s accelerating,” said Gov. Pillen. “In a few short years Nebraskans will be paying $1 million a day in property taxes. That’s $6 billion a year. Property taxes are hurting young people, our seniors, homeowners, renters, farmers, business owners. We need state senators to enter the upcoming special session with the determination to fix this issue immediately.”During the news conference, Sen. Linehan outlined key objectives of the comprehensive tax proposal which include:<ul>
 <li>Slashing property taxes by an average of 50%</li><li>Having the state assume greater funding of K-12 public schools</li><li>Ensuring that investments in public safety are protected and exempt from hard caps on local government tax collections</li><li>Placing limits on local tax collections</li><li>Identifying massive savings at the state level and running state government like a business</li>
 </ul>“Local spending is a significant issue when it comes to ever-rising property taxes, and one that we need to finally address,” said Sen. Linehan. “If local governments want to collect more in property taxes, then that decision should be left to taxpayers. That is flexible and that is fair. It creates a pathway for community growth, but with reasonable controls.”Local government spending has caused property taxes to balloon by $1 billion in the last five years.“While we call for spending restraint at the local level, we need to do the same in state government. When we talk about running government like a business, this is integral to the goal,” said Gov. Pillen. “Money saved can be directed to providing property tax reform, which is necessary to making us more competitive and ultimately, to growing Nebraska.”In addition to expanding state funding of public schools, which would be phased in over three years, and limiting local property tax collections, cutting state expenditures is a significant and necessary feature of reducing property taxes. The plan cuts state spending by $350 million, leverages $235 million in idle cash funds, and uses federal funds to supplant general funds.The elimination of 114 tax exemptions would generate an estimated $950 million in property tax relief. Food and medications would remain untouched, but things like cigarettes, candy, pop, games of skill and other items would be taxable, as they are in other states.“Special interest groups have been very successful in carving out tax exemptions,” said Gov. Pillen. “Over time, they have eroded our tax base. This proposal better balances the state’s three-legged stool and broadens that base, putting the choice to spend in the hands of consumers.” &nbsp;Further, the plan calls for retooling credits to taxpayers, so they are loaded on the front end, instead of taxpayers having to claim them on the back end. In 2022, over half of all Nebraska property taxpayers did not claim these benefits. &nbsp;Gov. Pillen wrapped up the news conference with a call to action – requesting Nebraskans contact their state senators to support the plan.&nbsp;&nbsp; On page 10 of the published document (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.) is a QR code and email link that users can access to calculate how they will directly benefit.<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/Exemptions-Only-List2.pdf">Exemptions Only List</a>

Gov. Pillen Releases Property Tax Reduction Plan Ahead of Special Session

Bushnell, Neb. - First responders were dispatched to a two-vehicle accident on I-80 near Bushnell on Tuesday.

In a post from the Kimball County Sheriff's Office (KCS), the two-vehicle accident occurred at mile marker 4. KCSO reported there were no life-threating injuries. No further information was given.

Assisting the KCSO was Nebraska State Patrol, Bushnell Fire Department and Kimball EMS.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721327503973.jpeg" alt="A semi-truck that was involved in an accident on I-80 near Bushnell (Photo From Kimball County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>A semi-truck that was involved in an accident on I-80 near Bushnell (Photo From Kimball County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Panhandle Post&nbsp;Bushnell, Neb. - First responders were dispatched to a two-vehicle accident on I-80 near Bushnell on Tuesday.In a post from the Kimball County Sheriff's Office (KCS), the two-vehicle accident occurred at mile marker 4. KCSO reported there were no life-threating injuries. No further information was given.Assisting the KCSO was Nebraska State Patrol, Bushnell Fire Department and Kimball EMS.&nbsp;

First responders respond to a two-vehicle accident on I-80 near Bushnell on Tuesday

MILWAUKEE— President Trump's vice presidential nominee JD Vance spoke Wednesday night to the Republican National Convention.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8TlBHRtrvM">Click here </a>to watch his full acceptance speech

MILWAUKEE— President Trump's vice presidential nominee JD Vance spoke Wednesday night to the Republican National Convention.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JD Vance: &quot;Our movement is about single moms like mine, who struggled with money and addiction, but never gave up. I&#39;m proud to say that tonight my my mom is here, 10 years, clean and sober. I love you mom.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sl2P0hDk5i">pic.twitter.com/sl2P0hDk5i</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1813783939099828705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JD Vance: &quot;I stand here humbled and I&#39;m overwhelmed with gratitude to say I officially accept your nomination to be Vice President of the United States of America.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/xSq3U4sLeR">pic.twitter.com/xSq3U4sLeR</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1813770852082860461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8TlBHRtrvM">Click here </a>to watch his full acceptance speech

🎥Trump vice presidential pick talks Appalachian ties in speech at RNC

President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721298336544.png" alt="Biden boarding Air Force One Wednesday-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Biden boarding Air Force One Wednesday-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721256037259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I tested positive for COVID-19 this afternoon, but I am feeling good and thank everyone for the well wishes. I will be isolating as I recover, and during this time I will continue to work to get the job done for the American people.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1813715823053193685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Read note from Biden's doctor: President tests positive for COVID

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/17/petitions-turned-in-seeking-to-stop-nebraskas-redesigned-school-choice-law/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraskans appear likely to vote this November on whether to repeal the revamped version of Nebraska’s first major school choice legislation in a generation.

Public schools advocacy group Support Our Schools on Wednesday announced that it was turning in more than 86,000 signatures gathered from people seeking a chance to weigh in.&nbsp;

The group had only 67 days to collect the roughly 61,000 valid signatures it needed from 5% of registered voters, including 5% in at least 38 of Nebraska’s 93 counties.

Why 67 days? State senators passed Legislative Bill 1402 on the last day of the legislative session in April. And Gov. Jim Pillen, a school choice supporter, held the bill before signing it.

Support Our Schools then worked with its lawyers and the Secretary of State’s Office on&nbsp;petition&nbsp;language and organized an effort to gather signatures, the second in as many years.

The same group gathered signatures last year to put the original version of the school choice law, Legislative Bill 753, on the ballot. That law was replaced this year by the new LB 1402.

The group used 2,800 volunteers to gather signatures this summer, after using 2,100 last year, said Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association.&nbsp;

“We want it to go to the ballot, and that’s what’s going to happen,” she said Wednesday. “We’re not going to get it taken this time.”

Once signatures are verified, the Secretary of State’s Office said it would work with the Attorney General’s Office to verify that constitutional and statutory requirements are met.

Cynthia Peterson, of the League of Women Voters, said she wore the same red Support Our Schools T-shirt this week that she did the first time the group turned in petitions in August 2023.&nbsp;

She said Wednesday felt “like deja vu.”

LB 1402 will replace LB 753’s tax credit for donating to scholarships for needy students attending private K-12 schools with a school voucher program.

This is the first year of students attending private schools using up to $25 million-a-year scholarship tax credits. LB 1402 creates a $10 million-a-year voucher program.

Supporters of both efforts have said they hope to increase the amount appropriated over time and to increase the number of students eligible, while still favoring families in need.

The author of both bills, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha, has said LB 1402 responded to critics of the earlier tax credit. She has also acknowledged wanting to sidestep the first ballot push by passing the new legislation.&nbsp;

Linehan said the petition effort “hurts our kids by taking school choice away from families that need it the most.” She said repealing the law would hit low-income families hard.

She said 48 states provide state support for private K-12 schools, including neighboring Iowa, which revamped its approach to let state funding follow the student to a chosen school.

Voucher supporters did not organize a “Decline to Sign” campaign, as they did in 2023.

They have said they expected Support Our Schools and the Nebraska State Education Association to collect enough signatures.

“But no matter how much money they spend or how many signatures they collect, supporters of school choice won’t stop fighting for parents rights and for our kids,” Linehan said.

Linehan again criticized teachers unions and Democratic donors Susie Buffett and Barbara Weitz and her daughter, Katie, for funding a network of nonprofits backing Support Our Schools.

Buffett is one of the top funders of programs supporting additional needs of public schools through her foundations. Barbara Weitz is a University of Nebraska regent who does similar work.

Benson said Linehan, along with U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., and former Trump Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and other school choice funders are the ones who deserve scrutiny.

She defended the Nebraska teachers funding unions at the local, state and national levels, saying they “care about all kids.” She said private schools can choose which students they serve.

Support Our Schools has raised $1.37 million and spent more than $1.2 million for this second petition effort, according to the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission.&nbsp;

“When Senator Linehan … does all these tricks to block Nebraskans from voting, it doesn’t work,” Benson said. “Don’t poke the bear. They poked the bear, friends.”

Organizations say people should get to vote

Brad Christian-Sallis of the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, one of the nonprofits Linehan criticized, said “some politicians and wealthy special interests” tried to block the vote.

He said people “stepped up and made sure that we got this work done.” The Rev. Dr. Karla Cooper noted that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law 60 years ago this month.

“I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of ignorance,” Cooper said at the Support Our Schools event. “If we don’t get this right, wrong will always be the lot of our lives.”

Rebecca Firestone of OpenSky Policy Institute, another of the groups Linehan named, said most of the families that benefit from voucher programs were already attending private schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721248594283.jpeg" alt="Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association and sponsor of the Support Our Schools ballot referendum, leads supporters in transporting more than 86,000 signatures to the Nebraska Secretary of State. July 17, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association and sponsor of the Support Our Schools ballot referendum, leads supporters in transporting more than 86,000 signatures to the Nebraska Secretary of State. July 17, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/17/petitions-turned-in-seeking-to-stop-nebraskas-redesigned-school-choice-law/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraskans appear likely to vote this November on whether to repeal the revamped version of Nebraska’s first major school choice legislation in a generation.Public schools advocacy group Support Our Schools on Wednesday announced that it was turning in more than 86,000 signatures gathered from people seeking a chance to weigh in.&nbsp;The group had only 67 days to collect the roughly 61,000 valid signatures it needed from 5% of registered voters, including 5% in at least 38 of Nebraska’s 93 counties.Why 67 days? State senators passed Legislative Bill 1402 on the last day of the legislative session in April. And Gov. Jim Pillen, a school choice supporter, held the bill before signing it.Support Our Schools then worked with its lawyers and the Secretary of State’s Office on&nbsp;petition&nbsp;language and organized an effort to gather signatures, the second in as many years.<h2>The second go-round</h2>The same group gathered signatures last year to put the original version of the school choice law, Legislative Bill 753, on the ballot. That law was replaced this year by the new LB 1402.The group used 2,800 volunteers to gather signatures this summer, after using 2,100 last year, said Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association.&nbsp;“We want it to go to the ballot, and that’s what’s going to happen,” she said Wednesday. “We’re not going to get it taken this time.”Once signatures are verified, the Secretary of State’s Office said it would work with the Attorney General’s Office to verify that constitutional and statutory requirements are met.Cynthia Peterson, of the League of Women Voters, said she wore the same red Support Our Schools T-shirt this week that she did the first time the group turned in petitions in August 2023.&nbsp;She said Wednesday felt “like deja vu.”<h2>School choice supporters changed the law</h2>LB 1402 will replace LB 753’s tax credit for donating to scholarships for needy students attending private K-12 schools with a school voucher program.This is the first year of students attending private schools using up to $25 million-a-year scholarship tax credits. LB 1402 creates a $10 million-a-year voucher program.Supporters of both efforts have said they hope to increase the amount appropriated over time and to increase the number of students eligible, while still favoring families in need.The author of both bills, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha, has said LB 1402 responded to critics of the earlier tax credit. She has also acknowledged wanting to sidestep the first ballot push by passing the new legislation.&nbsp;Linehan said the petition effort “hurts our kids by taking school choice away from families that need it the most.” She said repealing the law would hit low-income families hard.She said 48 states provide state support for private K-12 schools, including neighboring Iowa, which revamped its approach to let state funding follow the student to a chosen school.Voucher supporters did not organize a “Decline to Sign” campaign, as they did in 2023.They have said they expected Support Our Schools and the Nebraska State Education Association to collect enough signatures.“But no matter how much money they spend or how many signatures they collect, supporters of school choice won’t stop fighting for parents rights and for our kids,” Linehan said.<h2>Linehan criticizes Support Our Schools</h2>Linehan again criticized teachers unions and Democratic donors Susie Buffett and Barbara Weitz and her daughter, Katie, for funding a network of nonprofits backing Support Our Schools.Buffett is one of the top funders of programs supporting additional needs of public schools through her foundations. Barbara Weitz is a University of Nebraska regent who does similar work.Benson said Linehan, along with U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., and former Trump Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and other school choice funders are the ones who deserve scrutiny.She defended the Nebraska teachers funding unions at the local, state and national levels, saying they “care about all kids.” She said private schools can choose which students they serve.Support Our Schools has raised $1.37 million and spent more than $1.2 million for this second petition effort, according to the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission.&nbsp;“When Senator Linehan … does all these tricks to block Nebraskans from voting, it doesn’t work,” Benson said. “Don’t poke the bear. They poked the bear, friends.”<h2>Organizations say people should get to vote</h2>Brad Christian-Sallis of the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, one of the nonprofits Linehan criticized, said “some politicians and wealthy special interests” tried to block the vote.He said people “stepped up and made sure that we got this work done.” The Rev. Dr. Karla Cooper noted that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law 60 years ago this month.“I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of ignorance,” Cooper said at the Support Our Schools event. “If we don’t get this right, wrong will always be the lot of our lives.”Rebecca Firestone of OpenSky Policy Institute, another of the groups Linehan named, said most of the families that benefit from voucher programs were already attending private schools.Petition organizers said nine out of 10 Nebraska students attend public schools. They stressed potential harm to rural students from LB 1402, saying 48 of the state’s 93 counties have no private schools.Lena Translaviña Stover, executive director of the Heartland Workers Center, said immigrants often need help from their public schools to learn English and assimilate.Andy Grosshans, a school board member in Waverly, said that Nebraskans don’t want to spend tax dollars on private schools and that the state doesn’t hold such schools accountable.“Diverting those funds from public schools is only going to damage the public schools,” he said. “The taxpayers cannot afford to support two school systems.”<h2>Linehan: State can afford voucher program</h2>Linehan and others have said the state can do both. Lawmakers last session added new funding for public schools, including a $1 billion fund being used to provide a baseline of state aid and special education, among other priorities.&nbsp;Pillen has&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/14/gov-pillens-property-tax-plan-would-add-new-taxes-on-120-goods-and-services-draft-indicates/">considered using</a>&nbsp;some of that funding for possible offsets to help fund property tax relief during a promised special session this summer on property taxes, starting as early as next week.Benson and Tim Royers, the NSEA’s president-elect, said they will be watching how Pillen and others approach Pillen’s proposal to have the state assume more K-12 costs.Royers said most Nebraskans have voted&nbsp; on school choice proposals before, and each time they have sided with maintaining their public schools.&nbsp;“Our opponents are somehow trying to capture the narrative that they’re the ones trying to do this for all kids,” Royers said. “Their goal is to undermine public education and profit (from private schools).”&nbsp;Jeremy Ekeler, executive director of a scholarship-granting organization under LB 753, Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska, said in a statement that his group is already helping students.More than 2,000 students have applied for funds through his organization, one of several that provide them, and has awarded 508 scholarships.He and spokeswoman Lauren Gage said the organization hopes to award more than 1,500 by September. They shared statements from parents saying they are excited about the program.Stats provided by the organization show about 45% of the scholarship applicants were rural and 55% were urban. The group says 30% of its applicants are students of color.&nbsp;Tom Venzor, executive director of the Nebraska Catholic Conference, called the ballot measure “frustrating beyond measure.”“It demonstrates a blatant disregard for thousands of students in need of more educational options, and it undermines the fundamental rights of parents as the primary educators of their children,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>The Legislature could change the law again</h2>Benson was asked what Support Our Schools would do if the Legislature tried to pass another version of the school choice law during a special session to sidestep the initiative.She said the group would work to make sure Nebraskans on all sides of the political aisle communicate with state senators about the importance of letting Nebraska’s second house vote.“We always have those concerns,” she said. “The more those 49 people … hear from people, the better off we are. Use your voice.”