News Release Keith County Area Development

Keith County Area Development (KCAD) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mary Wilson and Lisa Kraus will serve as co-directors following the recent resignation of Executive Director Regina Carlini. 

"We are thrilled to have both Mary and Lisa on board to direct our organization," said KCAD Board President Laci Mueller.  "They have each developed expertise and experience in economic development, and they have shown a passion for working strategically to better our community.

"While we were sad to see the resignation of former director Carlini, we wish her the best and we are excited about the new opportunities that this co-directorship brings." continued Mueller.

Wilson previously served as KCAD Executive Director from 2016 until spring 2021.  She subsequently continued to support KCAD's housing efforts on a contractual basis.  KCAD provides administrative and technical support to the Keith County Housing Development Corporation.   Wilson had announced her previous resignation to allow more time to support her family and their U-Save Pharmacy businesses.  Wilson holds a bachelor's degree in vocational business education from the University of Nebraska, Kearny, and has previously working in economic development at Dawson Area Development in Lexington  She and her husband Brian have two daughters, ages six and two. 

Kraus has worked at KCAD since March 2020, most recently as the Office and Program Specialist and she oversaw all programs during the executive director vacancy.   Kraus holds a bachelor's degree from Doane College (now Doane University) and a master's degree from The George Washington University.   Prior to returning to her hometown of Ogallala, Kraus worked in international education at the U.S. Department of State.   Kraus and her husband, Richard Gibson, are owners of Second Chapter Brewery, which is slated to open in 2022 in Ogallala's former Goodall City Library.  They have a son and a daughter, ages 5 and 2 respectively.  

"Our community is well poised to take advantage of a number of growth and development opportunities that are on the horizon," Mueller added.  "We are confident that Mary and Lisa will continue to foster strong and progressive partnerships for growth." 

With Wilson and Kraus jointly serving as director of the organization , KCAD has announced that is recruiting for both a program specialist and office assistant.   Both positions are currently open for application.  More information can be found at www.kcad.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642253570287.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Keith County Area DevelopmentKeith County Area Development (KCAD) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mary Wilson and Lisa Kraus will serve as co-directors following the recent resignation of Executive Director Regina Carlini. "We are thrilled to have both Mary and Lisa on board to direct our organization," said KCAD Board President Laci Mueller. "They have each developed expertise and experience in economic development, and they have shown a passion for working strategically to better our community."While we were sad to see the resignation of former director Carlini, we wish her the best and we are excited about the new opportunities that this co-directorship brings." continued Mueller.Wilson previously served as KCAD Executive Director from 2016 until spring 2021. She subsequently continued to support KCAD's housing efforts on a contractual basis. KCAD provides administrative and technical support to the Keith County Housing Development Corporation. Wilson had announced her previous resignation to allow more time to support her family and their U-Save Pharmacy businesses. Wilson holds a bachelor's degree in vocational business education from the University of Nebraska, Kearny, and has previously working in economic development at Dawson Area Development in Lexington She and her husband Brian have two daughters, ages six and two. Kraus has worked at KCAD since March 2020, most recently as the Office and Program Specialist and she oversaw all programs during the executive director vacancy. Kraus holds a bachelor's degree from Doane College (now Doane University) and a master's degree from The George Washington University. Prior to returning to her hometown of Ogallala, Kraus worked in international education at the U.S. Department of State. Kraus and her husband, Richard Gibson, are owners of Second Chapter Brewery, which is slated to open in 2022 in Ogallala's former Goodall City Library. They have a son and a daughter, ages 5 and 2 respectively. "Our community is well poised to take advantage of a number of growth and development opportunities that are on the horizon," Mueller added. "We are confident that Mary and Lisa will continue to foster strong and progressive partnerships for growth." With Wilson and Kraus jointly serving as director of the organization , KCAD has announced that is recruiting for both a program specialist and office assistant. Both positions are currently open for application. More information can be found at www.kcad.org.

Keith County Area Development names co-directors

United States Attorney Jan Sharp announced that Richard L. Moore, 67, formerly of Wallace, Nebraska, was sentenced on Jan. 13, in Lincoln, by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for production of child pornography.&nbsp; Moore was sentenced to 360 months in prison and will also spend the remainder of his life on supervised release after that period of incarceration.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; After serving his prison sentence, Moore will also be required to register as a sex offender.&nbsp; Additionally, Moore was ordered to pay restitution of more than $100,000.&nbsp; The federal sentence was ordered to run concurrent with the 25- to 35-year sentence previously imposed by the Lincoln County District Court for his state conviction.

In October, 2019, a report was received by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office that Moore had engaged in and produced images of sexually explicit conduct involving two minor children. The children had reported the abuse to their parents.&nbsp; Subsequent interviews with the minor children confirmed the sexual conduct had occurred and Moore was identified as the perpetrator.

On October 18, 2019, the Perkins County Sheriff and members of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant at Moore’s residence.&nbsp; During the search warrant, law enforcement found multiple devices used to reproduce both video and digital images; 5 monitors connected to a single system; at least 5 external hard drives with a total capacity of 36 terabytes; and a substantial collection of VHS and digitally stored pornography. Forensic examination determined a minimum of 48,000 images and 84 videos of child pornography found on the computers and storage media located at the defendant’s residence.&nbsp; The sheer volume of the data located at Moore’s residence renders a more accurate count virtually impossible.&nbsp;

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justice.gov/psc" target="_blank">www.justice.gov/psc</a>.&nbsp;

This case was investigated by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Perkins County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642200867417.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release US Attorney-OmahaUnited States Attorney Jan Sharp announced that Richard L. Moore, 67, formerly of Wallace, Nebraska, was sentenced on Jan. 13, in Lincoln, by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for production of child pornography.&nbsp; Moore was sentenced to 360 months in prison and will also spend the remainder of his life on supervised release after that period of incarceration.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; After serving his prison sentence, Moore will also be required to register as a sex offender.&nbsp; Additionally, Moore was ordered to pay restitution of more than $100,000.&nbsp; The federal sentence was ordered to run concurrent with the 25- to 35-year sentence previously imposed by the Lincoln County District Court for his state conviction.In October, 2019, a report was received by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office that Moore had engaged in and produced images of sexually explicit conduct involving two minor children. The children had reported the abuse to their parents.&nbsp; Subsequent interviews with the minor children confirmed the sexual conduct had occurred and Moore was identified as the perpetrator.On October 18, 2019, the Perkins County Sheriff and members of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant at Moore’s residence.&nbsp; During the search warrant, law enforcement found multiple devices used to reproduce both video and digital images; 5 monitors connected to a single system; at least 5 external hard drives with a total capacity of 36 terabytes; and a substantial collection of VHS and digitally stored pornography. Forensic examination determined a minimum of 48,000 images and 84 videos of child pornography found on the computers and storage media located at the defendant’s residence.&nbsp; The sheer volume of the data located at Moore’s residence renders a more accurate count virtually impossible.&nbsp;This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justice.gov/psc" target="_blank">www.justice.gov/psc</a>.&nbsp;This case was investigated by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Perkins County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Wallace man sentenced to 30 years for producing child pornography

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts has announced a public health order barring the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha from performing pre-scheduled, non-emergency surgeries, one day after the hospital announced that it had activated its crisis plan because of the pandemic.

 Ricketts says the state’s directed health measure would go into effect at 5 p.m. Friday and remain in place through Feb. 13. 

The measure applies to what are known as Class C, D and E inpatient and outpatient surgeries, which aren’t as pressing as emergency procedures.

 The Nebraska Medical Center is one of two hospitals within Nebraska Medicine, a nonprofit business which announced Thursday that it was shifting to a “crisis standard of care” because of the coronavirus’ omicron variant.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts has announced a public health order barring the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha from performing pre-scheduled, non-emergency surgeries, one day after the hospital announced that it had activated its crisis plan because of the pandemic. Ricketts says the state’s directed health measure would go into effect at 5 p.m. Friday and remain in place through Feb. 13. The measure applies to what are known as Class C, D and E inpatient and outpatient surgeries, which aren’t as pressing as emergency procedures. The Nebraska Medical Center is one of two hospitals within Nebraska Medicine, a nonprofit business which announced Thursday that it was shifting to a “crisis standard of care” because of the coronavirus’ omicron variant.

State halts some surgeries at Nebraska Medical Center

Today we spoke with Chadron City manager John Sutherland about the Chadron City Council meeting from Jan. 10. 

The council approved an agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation for maintenance of Highway 20, plans for the North Pine Street water main connection loop project and more.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Chadron City Manager John Sutherland" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ujyvb-117bf3c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&btn-skin=5&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we spoke with Chadron City manager John Sutherland about the Chadron City Council meeting from Jan. 10. The council approved an agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation for maintenance of Highway 20, plans for the North Pine Street water main connection loop project and more.&nbsp;

🔊Post Podcast: Chadron City Manager John Sutherland

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska state government collected more tax revenue than expected in December. 

The Nebraska Department of Revenue reports state tax receipts of $510 million, which is 7.4% higher than the forecast of $475 million.

 The department says net individual income, corporate income and sales and use taxes were all higher than projected, while net miscellaneous taxes came in lower.

 Nebraska has collected $2.859 billion so far in the current fiscal year, which began on July 1, 2021.

 That’s 2.7% higher than the forecasted amounted $2.785 billion for this point in the year. 

The projections were set by the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board in October 2021.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska state government collected more tax revenue than expected in December. The Nebraska Department of Revenue reports state tax receipts of $510 million, which is 7.4% higher than the forecast of $475 million. The department says net individual income, corporate income and sales and use taxes were all higher than projected, while net miscellaneous taxes came in lower. Nebraska has collected $2.859 billion so far in the current fiscal year, which began on July 1, 2021. That’s 2.7% higher than the forecasted amounted $2.785 billion for this point in the year. The projections were set by the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board in October 2021.

Nebraska tax collections beat expectations in December

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that&nbsp;the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has issued a new Directed Health Measure (DHM).

The DHM suspends Class C, D, and E inpatient and outpatient surgeries (pre-scheduled, non-emergency medical surgeries) at The Nebraska Medical Center (NMC) in Omaha after the hospital facility chose to begin operating under a crisis standard of care yesterday.&nbsp; The DHM takes effect today (Friday, January 14th) at 5:00 p.m. and is scheduled to remain in place through February 13, 2022.&nbsp;

“Hospitals that decide to operate under a crisis standard of care should not be performing non-emergency surgeries,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Today’s DHM makes sure the Nebraska Medical Center remains focused on prioritizing care for patients with the most urgent medical needs.”

The newly issued DHM is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fv0lwnp4lqbs5pfo%2F2022.01.13%2520DHM%2520NM-001.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cd240a0f00f71410268c108d9d77a545d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637777742724026989%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=8lURWCFBgFkYc09NovwZ26rPhZlXkkIgTf2wX%2F6ars4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that&nbsp;the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has issued a new Directed Health Measure (DHM).The DHM suspends Class C, D, and E inpatient and outpatient surgeries (pre-scheduled, non-emergency medical surgeries) at The Nebraska Medical Center (NMC) in Omaha after the hospital facility chose to begin operating under a crisis standard of care yesterday.&nbsp; The DHM takes effect today (Friday, January 14th) at 5:00 p.m. and is scheduled to remain in place through February 13, 2022.&nbsp;“Hospitals that decide to operate under a crisis standard of care should not be performing non-emergency surgeries,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Today’s DHM makes sure the Nebraska Medical Center remains focused on prioritizing care for patients with the most urgent medical needs.”The newly issued DHM is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fv0lwnp4lqbs5pfo%2F2022.01.13%2520DHM%2520NM-001.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cd240a0f00f71410268c108d9d77a545d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637777742724026989%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=8lURWCFBgFkYc09NovwZ26rPhZlXkkIgTf2wX%2F6ars4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts announces new Directed Health Measure

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Looking at a cold day and night across southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle with mostly clouds skies.

Scattered snow showers have developed across the region and will continue this morning with light snow accumulation possible, mainly in the higher terrain. 

Additionally, windy conditions are expected over the Nebraska Panhandle today with gusts to 55 MPH possible.&nbsp;

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYLooking at a cold day and night across southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle with mostly clouds skies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642178075422.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scattered snow showers have developed across the region and will continue this morning with light snow accumulation possible, mainly in the higher terrain. Additionally, windy conditions are expected over the Nebraska Panhandle today with gusts to 55 MPH possible.&nbsp;

Colder weather, high winds move into Panhandle 

POST PODCAST: Lori Mazanec, BBGH

The Chadron Police Department has conducted an "after-action review" of the incident on Nov. 30, 2021 when Chadron Public Schools were advised to conduct a “Lockout/Secure” after two possibly armed suspects entered the community due to a pursuit from South Dakota.

"Based on that review and citizen input, the department is working with the Code Red Alert System to enhance our ability to quickly and efficiently notify the community of emergency situations when needed," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The Code Red Alert System is the best way we can reach the most people and businesses in our community in a quick and efficient manner. But the only way this system can be successful is if our citizens sign-up to participate in it."

Hickstein urges the Chadron community to sign-up for the Code Red Alert System so proper notifications can be made in the future.

Citizens and business owners can sign-up for the Code Red Alert System by going to the City of Chadron Website: <a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/437/Code-Red-Alerts">https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/437/Code-Red-Alerts</a> or by going directly to <a href="https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/20DA2FD5CE20">https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/20DA2FD5CE20</a> .

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Chadron Police Department has conducted an "after-action review" of the incident on Nov. 30, 2021 when Chadron Public Schools were advised to conduct a “Lockout/Secure” after two possibly armed suspects entered the community due to a pursuit from South Dakota."Based on that review and citizen input, the department is working with the Code Red Alert System to enhance our ability to quickly and efficiently notify the community of emergency situations when needed," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The Code Red Alert System is the best way we can reach the most people and businesses in our community in a quick and efficient manner. But the only way this system can be successful is if our citizens sign-up to participate in it."Hickstein urges the Chadron community to sign-up for the Code Red Alert System so proper notifications can be made in the future. Citizens and business owners can sign-up for the Code Red Alert System by going to the City of Chadron Website: <a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/437/Code-Red-Alerts">https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/437/Code-Red-Alerts</a> or by going directly to <a href="https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/20DA2FD5CE20">https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/20DA2FD5CE20</a> .

CPD encourage community to sign up for Code Red Alert System

By&nbsp;CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Matt Mason, Nebraska State Poet and Executive Director of the Nebraska Writers Collective, will present several sessions during Chadron State College’s Creative Writing Day Thursday, Jan. 20. All events are free and open to anyone who is interested.

Mason is the author of Things We Don’t Know We Don’t Know, The Baby That Ate Cincinnati, and I Have a Poem the Size of the Moon, a book of poems about Nebraska.

Following a meet and greet from 3:30 to 4 p.m. with English and Humanities faculty members in Old Admin Room 227, Mason will participate in a roundtable discussion from 4 to 5 p.m. about creative writing in the high school classroom, programs such as Poetry Out Loud, writing festivals, and events intended for emerging writers.

From 5:15 to 6:30 p.m., Mason will lead writers through activities he has developed through the Nebraska Arts Council’s Artists in the Schools and Communities program. Pizza will be provided.

At a 7 p.m. public reading in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, Mason will share excerpts from his third book with a book signing to follow.

<a href="http://matt.midverse.com/" target="_blank">Mason</a>&nbsp;is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize for his poem, Notes For My Daughter Against Chasing Storms, and his work has been published in numerous magazines and anthologies, including Ted Kooser’s American Life in Poetry.&nbsp;A sample of Mason’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDD0liihQYg" target="_blank">Pandemic Poetry</a>&nbsp;can be seen on YouTube.

For more information, contact Dr. Matt Evertson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mevertson@csc.edu" target="_blank">mevertson@csc.edu</a>.

PHOTO:&nbsp;<a href="https://chadronstate.smugmug.com/News/Recent/i-WvS82VK/A" target="_blank">https://chadronstate.smugmug.com/News/Recent/i-WvS82VK/A</a>

By&nbsp;CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Matt Mason, Nebraska State Poet and Executive Director of the Nebraska Writers Collective, will present several sessions during Chadron State College’s Creative Writing Day Thursday, Jan. 20. All events are free and open to anyone who is interested.Mason is the author of Things We Don’t Know We Don’t Know, The Baby That Ate Cincinnati, and I Have a Poem the Size of the Moon, a book of poems about Nebraska.Following a meet and greet from 3:30 to 4 p.m. with English and Humanities faculty members in Old Admin Room 227, Mason will participate in a roundtable discussion from 4 to 5 p.m. about creative writing in the high school classroom, programs such as Poetry Out Loud, writing festivals, and events intended for emerging writers.From 5:15 to 6:30 p.m., Mason will lead writers through activities he has developed through the Nebraska Arts Council’s Artists in the Schools and Communities program. Pizza will be provided.At a 7 p.m. public reading in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, Mason will share excerpts from his third book with a book signing to follow.<a href="http://matt.midverse.com/" target="_blank">Mason</a>&nbsp;is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize for his poem, Notes For My Daughter Against Chasing Storms, and his work has been published in numerous magazines and anthologies, including Ted Kooser’s American Life in Poetry.&nbsp;A sample of Mason’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDD0liihQYg" target="_blank">Pandemic Poetry</a>&nbsp;can be seen on YouTube.For more information, contact Dr. Matt Evertson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mevertson@csc.edu" target="_blank">mevertson@csc.edu</a>.PHOTO:&nbsp;<a href="https://chadronstate.smugmug.com/News/Recent/i-WvS82VK/A" target="_blank">https://chadronstate.smugmug.com/News/Recent/i-WvS82VK/A</a>

Nebraska State Poet to speak on Chadron State College campus

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Colorado has warned it will “protect and aggressively assert” its water rights after Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts announced a plan to spend $500 million on a canal and reservoir project that includes claiming access to land in Colorado under a 99-year-old compact between the states. 

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis says he will work with Nebraska but wants to learn more details about what the state has planned. 

His comments came as Ricketts released a proposed state budget Thursday detailing how he intends to fund the project.

 Ricketts and Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson announced the water plan after Colorado released a report that identified new water projects within the South Platte River Basin.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Colorado has warned it will “protect and aggressively assert” its water rights after Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts announced a plan to spend $500 million on a canal and reservoir project that includes claiming access to land in Colorado under a 99-year-old compact between the states. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis says he will work with Nebraska but wants to learn more details about what the state has planned. His comments came as Ricketts released a proposed state budget Thursday detailing how he intends to fund the project. Ricketts and Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson announced the water plan after Colorado released a report that identified new water projects within the South Platte River Basin.

Colorado to 'aggressively assert' water rights with Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is proposing an income tax cut for corporations and nearly 419,000 residents whose incomes rise into the state’s top bracket. 

The Republican governor said he would seek to lower the top rates to 5.84%, down from the current 6.84% for individuals and 7.25% for corporations that will go into effect next year. 

The plan would reduce state tax collections by $178.8 million by fiscal year 2025. 

Like many other states, Nebraska is flush with cash from a better-than-expected pandemic economy and billions in federal stimulus payments that went to most Nebraska taxpayers.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is proposing an income tax cut for corporations and nearly 419,000 residents whose incomes rise into the state’s top bracket. The Republican governor said he would seek to lower the top rates to 5.84%, down from the current 6.84% for individuals and 7.25% for corporations that will go into effect next year. The plan would reduce state tax collections by $178.8 million by fiscal year 2025. Like many other states, Nebraska is flush with cash from a better-than-expected pandemic economy and billions in federal stimulus payments that went to most Nebraska taxpayers.

Nebraska's Ricketts seeks tax cut for highest earners

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A Rapid City woman accused of driving drunk and fatally hitting her friend with a vehicle during an argument has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. 

Pennington County prosecutors say 51-year-old Rochelle Seminole had a blood alcohol content of more than three times the legal limit in May of 2019 when she argued with 37-year-old Kimberly Clifford in the parking lot of a Rapid City Walmart. 

Witnesses say Seminole attempted to run over Clifford, but missed and then backed up and struck her. 

Originally charged with first-degree murder, Seminole pleaded guilty last month to vehicular homicide and aggravated assault in Clifford’s death.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A Rapid City woman accused of driving drunk and fatally hitting her friend with a vehicle during an argument has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. Pennington County prosecutors say 51-year-old Rochelle Seminole had a blood alcohol content of more than three times the legal limit in May of 2019 when she argued with 37-year-old Kimberly Clifford in the parking lot of a Rapid City Walmart. Witnesses say Seminole attempted to run over Clifford, but missed and then backed up and struck her. Originally charged with first-degree murder, Seminole pleaded guilty last month to vehicular homicide and aggravated assault in Clifford’s death.

Rapid City woman given 25 years for fatally striking friend

LINCOLN –&nbsp;President Foley, Speaker Hilgers, Members of the Legislature, Distinguished Guests, friends, my lovely wife and First Lady Susanne Shore, fellow Nebraskans – good morning!

Congratulations&nbsp;on the commencement of the Second Session of the 107th&nbsp;Nebraska Legislature.&nbsp; Welcome back to Lincoln.&nbsp; I look forward to working together to serve Nebraskans during what is certain to be a fast-paced, short session.&nbsp;

Eight years ago, I announced my run for Governor.&nbsp; I did so out of a love for my state and a desire to see her thrive.&nbsp; Through the years, the guiding light of my administration has remained the same: to Grow Nebraska.

And, despite weathering floods, fires, and a global pandemic, we have done just that.

In the face of unprecedented challenges, the State of the State is strong.

We’ve been living with COVID-19 for nearly two years.&nbsp; It’s changed the way we do business, educate, learn, and go about our daily lives.&nbsp; And in some tragic cases, it’s taken lives.

But, true to our collective character, we have kept moving forward.&nbsp; The development of vaccines, boosters, and new treatments has given us the opportunity to return to the pursuit of the Good Life.

Nebraskans don’t need to be mandated to do the right thing.&nbsp; They just do it.&nbsp; Without lockdowns or mandates, businesses were able to stay open.&nbsp; Parents were able to return to work, and their children were able to return to school.&nbsp; Where authoritarian states are struggling, we are thriving.

Politico’s State Pandemic Response Scorecard confirms this.&nbsp; An in-depth, independent analysis of all 50 states shows Nebraska has weathered this storm better than&nbsp;any other state.

We have the lowest unemployment rate in history – not only in the history of our state, but of our nation – at 1.8 percent.

Last November marked the third month in a row with over one million Nebraskans employed.

And, our manufacturing sector has come roaring back.&nbsp; In fact, today more Nebraskans are working in manufacturing than pre-pandemic.

Our economic successes are a testament to Nebraskans’ desire to work hard and earn.&nbsp; From teachers to truck drivers, mechanics to medical professionals, farmers to fast food workers, and every profession in between, our state’s women and men invest their time and effort to better their communities and support their families.

Last year, we supported their work and helped them grow Nebraska.

Thanks to the leadership of Chairwoman Linehan and the Revenue Committee, the 2021 session ushered in a historic level of tax relief—relief that will deliver $2 billion to Nebraskans over the next two years.&nbsp;

Many other great bills were passed into law thanks to your hard work.

Chairman Friesen, Speaker Hilgers, and the Telecommunications and Transportation Committee joined forces to secure passage of the Nebraska Rural Broadband Bridge Act.&nbsp; As a result, an additional thirty thousand Nebraska households will have access to high-speed broadband.

Senators Brewer and Gragert shepherded through legislation that fully exempts military retirement pay from state income tax. &nbsp;Reforms like this are how we will keep talented veterans in our state.

All this—and more—was accomplished while responsibly managing state spending and limiting expenditures to only 2.4 percent growth.

Behind the numbers, we’ve experienced intangible growth as well. &nbsp;Throughout Nebraska, our people’s grit, drive, and selflessness were on full display in 2021.

From North Omaha to North Platte, folks stepped up to solve problems in their communities.

In North Omaha, business and community leaders have been working to develop and revitalize Omaha’s historic North 24th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp; Through physical improvements such as providing high-speed fiber optic upgrades, and a comprehensive streetscape plan, the project’s work promises to bring businesses and customers back to the area.

In the home of famed Buffalo Bill Cody, North Platte ranchers felt the squeeze that comes with a lack of options for meat processing. &nbsp;Instead of accepting the status quo, David Briggs and others have launched Sustainable Beef, a beef processing plant that promises to bring nearly 900 jobs to the North Platte community and more than one billion dollars in annual revenue. &nbsp;More importantly, Nebraska’s ranchers will have more choice as they run their businesses.&nbsp;

Today, I’m joined by some of the people who are responsible for these incredible efforts: North Omaha’s Carmen Tapio, CEO of North End Teleservices; Pastor Ralph Lassiter, a leader with the North 24th&nbsp;Street Business Improvement District; and David Briggs, CEO of Sustainable Beef. &nbsp;Please join me in welcoming them.

Carmen, Pastor Ralph, and David: thank you for all you do to make our state better.

Other Nebraskans also continued to step up for one another. &nbsp;In 2021, over 200 of our men and women accepted the call to join the thin blue line that protects and serves our communities. &nbsp;They’ve earned that badge. &nbsp;They were trained, challenged, and tested – thanks, in part, to the work of instructors at our Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island.

We are joined here today by Law Enforcement Training Center Director Brenda Urbanek and Deputy Director Mark Stephenson. &nbsp;They work to make sure our men and women in blue are ready to respond to the unique needs of their communities.&nbsp; Brenda and Mark, thank you for all you do.

Our students continued to pursue personal development. &nbsp;We enter 2022 with more than 3,900 Nebraskans in registered apprenticeship programs throughout the state—including through our six great community colleges. &nbsp;That’s 3,900 more Nebraskans who are pursuing growth and contributing to our diverse, skilled workforce.&nbsp;

And, Nebraska continues to serve as a beacon for life. &nbsp;This includes the amazing aid our crisis pregnancy centers and other organizations provide to new mothers and their babies. &nbsp;It also includes the work our people do for some of Nebraska’s most vulnerable—born and unborn.

I specifically want to recognize all that Attorney General Doug Peterson does to combat human trafficking in our state. &nbsp;During his tenure, the State of Nebraska has prosecuted 76 sex trafficking crimes, holding accountable those who are exploiting the vulnerable and delivering justice for victims of this modern day form of slavery.

Thank you, AG Peterson, for your leadership to ensure that all Nebraskans can expect justice and equality under the law.

We must also recognize all the doctors, nurses, and health care professionals, whose stalwart selflessness and excellent care has helped us weather this pandemic. &nbsp;Please help me thank our healthcare heroes.&nbsp;

We’ve come a long way in one year. &nbsp;But there is still work to be done. &nbsp;Work that will help everyone in our state thrive.

This legislative session, there are four priorities we must accomplish to keep Nebraska strong for years to come.&nbsp;

It’s likely not a surprise to any of you that I am starting with tax relief. &nbsp;It’s been a staple of my budget recommendations every year. &nbsp;I was elected on the promise that I would bring tax relief to our state. &nbsp;It’s what the hardworking men and women of our state deserve. &nbsp;And, given our current financial situation, we must deliver.

Last year, we successfully passed a two-year budget that set priorities for this year and next.

While there is an opportunity to fine-tune this plan, I expect state agencies and our partners to live within our existing budget and limit any budget growth to under three percent.

By the end of fiscal year 2023, the State of Nebraska is anticipated to have an estimated $1.5 billion in its Cash Reserve Fund. &nbsp;Let me say that again: 1.5 billion dollars.

Folks, this is the people’s money, and we must support tax relief that puts this money back into the pockets of the people.&nbsp;

To start, we can build on last session’s reforms by accelerating the phase-in of Social Security tax exemptions to five years, instead of the current ten-year period. &nbsp;This would allow our older neighbors and friends to keep more of their hard-earned money.

We also need to ensure that we are building upon the historic amount of property tax relief provided during last session. &nbsp;This fiscal year – and next – $548 million in annual property tax relief will go back to our people through LB1107. &nbsp;And we must make sure it does not drop below this floor.

Finally, over the next five years, we must reduce the top individual tax rate by one percent – from 6.84 percent to 5.84 percent. &nbsp;For those who may try to brand this as a tax cut for the rich, I challenge you to ask Nebraskans earning $33,180 a year, or families earning $66,360 a year, if they feel rich. &nbsp;They make up the 418,900 Nebraskans in this tax bracket who deserve relief.&nbsp;

And we can offer that relief while aligning job creator rates to this new individual income tax rate.

It’s imperative that we also remember our core responsibility: to protect public safety. &nbsp;After all, people are our greatest resource. &nbsp;There are several opportunities this session to strengthen our commitment to keep Nebraskans safe.

Historic agreements were struck to provide substantial pay increases for our 24/7 public health and safety positions. &nbsp;This will help us attract and retain quality corrections teammates. We’ve already seen a fivefold increase in Department of Corrections applicants since this announcement was made.

I am also requesting $16.9 million to enhance our state crime lab, which analyzes forensic and physical criminal evidence to better secure justice for victims of crime.

And $47.7 million to go toward the expansion of our Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island.

Finally, we must fully fund the replacement of the Nebraska State Penitentiary. &nbsp;The existing penitentiary was built over one hundred and fifty years ago. &nbsp;Its walls are crumbling, and its infrastructure is aged beyond simple repair.

For those wishing to pursue criminal justice reform, this should be a no-brainer. &nbsp;A modern facility will give our inmates a better quality of life. &nbsp;Modernizing our State Penitentiary will allow us to offer enhanced services and programming to prepare these men for life after time served.

I am not asking anyone to choose between supporting a modern State Penitentiary and pursuing policies that aim to reduce crime and recidivism. &nbsp;These solutions are not at odds, and there is room for both as we work to strengthen Nebraska.

This year, we can also help secure our water resources for generations to come.

After our people, water is Nebraska’s greatest natural resource.

To secure Nebraska’s water supply, I am recommending $500 million to construct a canal and reservoir system from the South Platte River.

Access to this water enables our farmers and ranchers to produce. &nbsp;It protects quality drinking water. &nbsp;It keeps electric generating costs manageable, and it ensures Nebraska remains the best place in the world to live, work, and raise a family.

If we fail to secure our supply from the South Platte River, we could expect to lose 90 percent of the water that currently comes to us from Colorado. &nbsp;We must act to preserve, protect, manage, and steward our water supply for our future Nebraskans.

I am also requesting $200 million be allocated to the water projects presented by the STAR WARS Special Committee. &nbsp;These projects will also secure our access to water—and they provide the additional promise to grow the Good Life in tourism and recreation.

In addition, I am recommending: $5 million to support repairs on the Peru Levee; $60 million to restore and protect drinking water systems in rural areas, such as Cedar and Knox Counties; and $23 million in repairs to the Fort Laramie Gering canal tunnel.&nbsp;

This year, we also have the rare task of spending the $1.04 billion that Nebraska has been allocated through the American Rescue Plan Act. &nbsp;These ARPA funds can help our state grow into the future.

Today, I am releasing a second budget recommendation with proposals on how to spend this ARPA funding, and I look forward to the robust debate that will ensue as you work to determine where this money is best spent.

I cannot stress it enough: ARPA funds are one-time funds. &nbsp;They must be spent as such. &nbsp;Each one of us has a responsibility to guard against spending this money in a way that grows government expenses.

My proposal includes 29 qualifying initiatives that will better Nebraska.

It will deliver nearly $200 million for public health emergency response.

And, for areas that experienced negative economic impacts from COVID-19, I am requesting over $500 million. &nbsp;This includes assistance for economic development projects in North Omaha and funding for beef processing supply chain issues in North Platte.

It secures funding for parents of low-income children who have experienced learning loss during the pandemic, and it provides Nebraska’s community colleges dollars to enhance their workforce development programs.

It also funds behavioral health and nursing incentives to ensure continued access to excellent care throughout our state.

In addition, my ARPA budget proposal includes over $284 million to water and sewer projects. &nbsp;This includes partial funding for the Perkins County Canal and Reservoir construction, funding for the STAR WARS Special Committee proposals, and other key water projects I’ve mentioned today.

Putting money back into the pockets of hardworking Nebraskans. &nbsp;Protecting public safety. &nbsp;Securing access to our natural resources. &nbsp;And investing in one-time projects that will enhance our state.&nbsp; These are the ways we can keep Nebraska strong and growing in 2022.

I know that there will be tough debates.&nbsp; Long nights.&nbsp; And seemingly impossible time constraints.&nbsp;

But I also know that we get the job done when everyone rolls up their sleeves and works together.

Thank you for your service to the people of Nebraska.&nbsp; Our work in the coming days will require a spirit of collaboration and cooperation and for each of us to do our part to keep Nebraska strong.

I look forward to the challenge, opportunity, and honor of working with you.

Remember: Nebraska is what America is supposed to be.

God bless you all, and God bless the great State of Nebraska!&nbsp;

LINCOLN –&nbsp;President Foley, Speaker Hilgers, Members of the Legislature, Distinguished Guests, friends, my lovely wife and First Lady Susanne Shore, fellow Nebraskans – good morning!Congratulations&nbsp;on the commencement of the Second Session of the 107th&nbsp;Nebraska Legislature.&nbsp; Welcome back to Lincoln.&nbsp; I look forward to working together to serve Nebraskans during what is certain to be a fast-paced, short session.&nbsp;Eight years ago, I announced my run for Governor.&nbsp; I did so out of a love for my state and a desire to see her thrive.&nbsp; Through the years, the guiding light of my administration has remained the same: to Grow Nebraska.And, despite weathering floods, fires, and a global pandemic, we have done just that.In the face of unprecedented challenges, the State of the State is strong.We’ve been living with COVID-19 for nearly two years.&nbsp; It’s changed the way we do business, educate, learn, and go about our daily lives.&nbsp; And in some tragic cases, it’s taken lives.But, true to our collective character, we have kept moving forward.&nbsp; The development of vaccines, boosters, and new treatments has given us the opportunity to return to the pursuit of the Good Life.Nebraskans don’t need to be mandated to do the right thing.&nbsp; They just do it.&nbsp; Without lockdowns or mandates, businesses were able to stay open.&nbsp; Parents were able to return to work, and their children were able to return to school.&nbsp; Where authoritarian states are struggling, we are thriving.Politico’s State Pandemic Response Scorecard confirms this.&nbsp; An in-depth, independent analysis of all 50 states shows Nebraska has weathered this storm better than&nbsp;any other state.We have the lowest unemployment rate in history – not only in the history of our state, but of our nation – at 1.8 percent.Last November marked the third month in a row with over one million Nebraskans employed.And, our manufacturing sector has come roaring back.&nbsp; In fact, today more Nebraskans are working in manufacturing than pre-pandemic.Our economic successes are a testament to Nebraskans’ desire to work hard and earn.&nbsp; From teachers to truck drivers, mechanics to medical professionals, farmers to fast food workers, and every profession in between, our state’s women and men invest their time and effort to better their communities and support their families.Last year, we supported their work and helped them grow Nebraska.Thanks to the leadership of Chairwoman Linehan and the Revenue Committee, the 2021 session ushered in a historic level of tax relief—relief that will deliver $2 billion to Nebraskans over the next two years.&nbsp;Many other great bills were passed into law thanks to your hard work.Chairman Friesen, Speaker Hilgers, and the Telecommunications and Transportation Committee joined forces to secure passage of the Nebraska Rural Broadband Bridge Act.&nbsp; As a result, an additional thirty thousand Nebraska households will have access to high-speed broadband.Senators Brewer and Gragert shepherded through legislation that fully exempts military retirement pay from state income tax. &nbsp;Reforms like this are how we will keep talented veterans in our state.All this—and more—was accomplished while responsibly managing state spending and limiting expenditures to only 2.4 percent growth.Behind the numbers, we’ve experienced intangible growth as well. &nbsp;Throughout Nebraska, our people’s grit, drive, and selflessness were on full display in 2021.From North Omaha to North Platte, folks stepped up to solve problems in their communities.In North Omaha, business and community leaders have been working to develop and revitalize Omaha’s historic North 24th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp; Through physical improvements such as providing high-speed fiber optic upgrades, and a comprehensive streetscape plan, the project’s work promises to bring businesses and customers back to the area.In the home of famed Buffalo Bill Cody, North Platte ranchers felt the squeeze that comes with a lack of options for meat processing. &nbsp;Instead of accepting the status quo, David Briggs and others have launched Sustainable Beef, a beef processing plant that promises to bring nearly 900 jobs to the North Platte community and more than one billion dollars in annual revenue. &nbsp;More importantly, Nebraska’s ranchers will have more choice as they run their businesses.&nbsp;Today, I’m joined by some of the people who are responsible for these incredible efforts: North Omaha’s Carmen Tapio, CEO of North End Teleservices; Pastor Ralph Lassiter, a leader with the North 24th&nbsp;Street Business Improvement District; and David Briggs, CEO of Sustainable Beef. &nbsp;Please join me in welcoming them.Carmen, Pastor Ralph, and David: thank you for all you do to make our state better.Other Nebraskans also continued to step up for one another. &nbsp;In 2021, over 200 of our men and women accepted the call to join the thin blue line that protects and serves our communities. &nbsp;They’ve earned that badge. &nbsp;They were trained, challenged, and tested – thanks, in part, to the work of instructors at our Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island.We are joined here today by Law Enforcement Training Center Director Brenda Urbanek and Deputy Director Mark Stephenson. &nbsp;They work to make sure our men and women in blue are ready to respond to the unique needs of their communities.&nbsp; Brenda and Mark, thank you for all you do.Our students continued to pursue personal development. &nbsp;We enter 2022 with more than 3,900 Nebraskans in registered apprenticeship programs throughout the state—including through our six great community colleges. &nbsp;That’s 3,900 more Nebraskans who are pursuing growth and contributing to our diverse, skilled workforce.&nbsp;And, Nebraska continues to serve as a beacon for life. &nbsp;This includes the amazing aid our crisis pregnancy centers and other organizations provide to new mothers and their babies. &nbsp;It also includes the work our people do for some of Nebraska’s most vulnerable—born and unborn.I specifically want to recognize all that Attorney General Doug Peterson does to combat human trafficking in our state. &nbsp;During his tenure, the State of Nebraska has prosecuted 76 sex trafficking crimes, holding accountable those who are exploiting the vulnerable and delivering justice for victims of this modern day form of slavery.Thank you, AG Peterson, for your leadership to ensure that all Nebraskans can expect justice and equality under the law.We must also recognize all the doctors, nurses, and health care professionals, whose stalwart selflessness and excellent care has helped us weather this pandemic. &nbsp;Please help me thank our healthcare heroes.&nbsp;We’ve come a long way in one year. &nbsp;But there is still work to be done. &nbsp;Work that will help everyone in our state thrive.This legislative session, there are four priorities we must accomplish to keep Nebraska strong for years to come.&nbsp;It’s likely not a surprise to any of you that I am starting with tax relief. &nbsp;It’s been a staple of my budget recommendations every year. &nbsp;I was elected on the promise that I would bring tax relief to our state. &nbsp;It’s what the hardworking men and women of our state deserve. &nbsp;And, given our current financial situation, we must deliver.Last year, we successfully passed a two-year budget that set priorities for this year and next.While there is an opportunity to fine-tune this plan, I expect state agencies and our partners to live within our existing budget and limit any budget growth to under three percent.By the end of fiscal year 2023, the State of Nebraska is anticipated to have an estimated $1.5 billion in its Cash Reserve Fund. &nbsp;Let me say that again: 1.5 billion dollars.Folks, this is the people’s money, and we must support tax relief that puts this money back into the pockets of the people.&nbsp;To start, we can build on last session’s reforms by accelerating the phase-in of Social Security tax exemptions to five years, instead of the current ten-year period. &nbsp;This would allow our older neighbors and friends to keep more of their hard-earned money.We also need to ensure that we are building upon the historic amount of property tax relief provided during last session. &nbsp;This fiscal year – and next – $548 million in annual property tax relief will go back to our people through LB1107. &nbsp;And we must make sure it does not drop below this floor.Finally, over the next five years, we must reduce the top individual tax rate by one percent – from 6.84 percent to 5.84 percent. &nbsp;For those who may try to brand this as a tax cut for the rich, I challenge you to ask Nebraskans earning $33,180 a year, or families earning $66,360 a year, if they feel rich. &nbsp;They make up the 418,900 Nebraskans in this tax bracket who deserve relief.&nbsp;And we can offer that relief while aligning job creator rates to this new individual income tax rate.It’s imperative that we also remember our core responsibility: to protect public safety. &nbsp;After all, people are our greatest resource. &nbsp;There are several opportunities this session to strengthen our commitment to keep Nebraskans safe.Historic agreements were struck to provide substantial pay increases for our 24/7 public health and safety positions. &nbsp;This will help us attract and retain quality corrections teammates. We’ve already seen a fivefold increase in Department of Corrections applicants since this announcement was made.I am also requesting $16.9 million to enhance our state crime lab, which analyzes forensic and physical criminal evidence to better secure justice for victims of crime.And $47.7 million to go toward the expansion of our Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island.Finally, we must fully fund the replacement of the Nebraska State Penitentiary. &nbsp;The existing penitentiary was built over one hundred and fifty years ago. &nbsp;Its walls are crumbling, and its infrastructure is aged beyond simple repair.For those wishing to pursue criminal justice reform, this should be a no-brainer. &nbsp;A modern facility will give our inmates a better quality of life. &nbsp;Modernizing our State Penitentiary will allow us to offer enhanced services and programming to prepare these men for life after time served.I am not asking anyone to choose between supporting a modern State Penitentiary and pursuing policies that aim to reduce crime and recidivism. &nbsp;These solutions are not at odds, and there is room for both as we work to strengthen Nebraska.This year, we can also help secure our water resources for generations to come.After our people, water is Nebraska’s greatest natural resource.To secure Nebraska’s water supply, I am recommending $500 million to construct a canal and reservoir system from the South Platte River.Access to this water enables our farmers and ranchers to produce. &nbsp;It protects quality drinking water. &nbsp;It keeps electric generating costs manageable, and it ensures Nebraska remains the best place in the world to live, work, and raise a family.If we fail to secure our supply from the South Platte River, we could expect to lose 90 percent of the water that currently comes to us from Colorado. &nbsp;We must act to preserve, protect, manage, and steward our water supply for our future Nebraskans.I am also requesting $200 million be allocated to the water projects presented by the STAR WARS Special Committee. &nbsp;These projects will also secure our access to water—and they provide the additional promise to grow the Good Life in tourism and recreation.In addition, I am recommending: $5 million to support repairs on the Peru Levee; $60 million to restore and protect drinking water systems in rural areas, such as Cedar and Knox Counties; and $23 million in repairs to the Fort Laramie Gering canal tunnel.&nbsp;This year, we also have the rare task of spending the $1.04 billion that Nebraska has been allocated through the American Rescue Plan Act. &nbsp;These ARPA funds can help our state grow into the future.Today, I am releasing a second budget recommendation with proposals on how to spend this ARPA funding, and I look forward to the robust debate that will ensue as you work to determine where this money is best spent.I cannot stress it enough: ARPA funds are one-time funds. &nbsp;They must be spent as such. &nbsp;Each one of us has a responsibility to guard against spending this money in a way that grows government expenses.My proposal includes 29 qualifying initiatives that will better Nebraska.It will deliver nearly $200 million for public health emergency response.And, for areas that experienced negative economic impacts from COVID-19, I am requesting over $500 million. &nbsp;This includes assistance for economic development projects in North Omaha and funding for beef processing supply chain issues in North Platte.It secures funding for parents of low-income children who have experienced learning loss during the pandemic, and it provides Nebraska’s community colleges dollars to enhance their workforce development programs.It also funds behavioral health and nursing incentives to ensure continued access to excellent care throughout our state.In addition, my ARPA budget proposal includes over $284 million to water and sewer projects. &nbsp;This includes partial funding for the Perkins County Canal and Reservoir construction, funding for the STAR WARS Special Committee proposals, and other key water projects I’ve mentioned today.Putting money back into the pockets of hardworking Nebraskans. &nbsp;Protecting public safety. &nbsp;Securing access to our natural resources. &nbsp;And investing in one-time projects that will enhance our state.&nbsp; These are the ways we can keep Nebraska strong and growing in 2022.I know that there will be tough debates.&nbsp; Long nights.&nbsp; And seemingly impossible time constraints.&nbsp;But I also know that we get the job done when everyone rolls up their sleeves and works together.Thank you for your service to the people of Nebraska.&nbsp; Our work in the coming days will require a spirit of collaboration and cooperation and for each of us to do our part to keep Nebraska strong.I look forward to the challenge, opportunity, and honor of working with you.Remember: Nebraska is what America is supposed to be.God bless you all, and God bless the great State of Nebraska!&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts' State of the State Address

GRAND ISLAND&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have rescued a kidnapping victim and arrested a suspect during an incident that occurred Wednesday night near Grand Island.

Wednesday evening, NSP was alerted by law enforcement authorities in Indiana that a suspect and kidnapping victim were believed to be traveling westbound in Nebraska. Troopers were able to locate the vehicle, a Chevrolet Silverado, as it was traveling westbound on Interstate 80. Troopers received information that a warrant had been issued for the driver’s arrest, and that Indiana officials believed the driver to be armed with several firearms.

At approximately 8:20 p.m. troopers with the NSP SWAT Team attempted to make contact with the vehicle at mile marker 314, near Grand Island. The suspect then drove through the median and began traveling eastbound. Troopers immediately performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the suspect vehicle to a stop. NSP SWAT then took the suspect into custody without further incident and the female passenger was rescued.

The female passenger reported that she had been handcuffed by the suspect during the drive from Indiana to Nebraska. Troopers also located numerous firearms inside the cab of the pickup.

The suspect, William Brittingham, 52, of Demotte, Indiana, was arrested and lodged in Hall County Jail, awaiting extradition to Indiana.

Homeland Security Investigators, the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force, and the Omaha Police Department assisted in this operation.

GRAND ISLAND&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have rescued a kidnapping victim and arrested a suspect during an incident that occurred Wednesday night near Grand Island.Wednesday evening, NSP was alerted by law enforcement authorities in Indiana that a suspect and kidnapping victim were believed to be traveling westbound in Nebraska. Troopers were able to locate the vehicle, a Chevrolet Silverado, as it was traveling westbound on Interstate 80. Troopers received information that a warrant had been issued for the driver’s arrest, and that Indiana officials believed the driver to be armed with several firearms.At approximately 8:20 p.m. troopers with the NSP SWAT Team attempted to make contact with the vehicle at mile marker 314, near Grand Island. The suspect then drove through the median and began traveling eastbound. Troopers immediately performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the suspect vehicle to a stop. NSP SWAT then took the suspect into custody without further incident and the female passenger was rescued.The female passenger reported that she had been handcuffed by the suspect during the drive from Indiana to Nebraska. Troopers also located numerous firearms inside the cab of the pickup.The suspect, William Brittingham, 52, of Demotte, Indiana, was arrested and lodged in Hall County Jail, awaiting extradition to Indiana.Homeland Security Investigators, the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force, and the Omaha Police Department assisted in this operation.

Troopers rescue Indiana kidnapping victim, arrest suspect

Alliance auto shops have been giving back to the community for years to help citizens and grow Alliance.&nbsp;

B &amp; S Repair Shop enjoys helping their customers and giving back to the community.&nbsp;

"We donate a lot," B &amp; S owner Bobby Rog said. "Me and Spencer [Sanchez] have donated a lot to cancer patients. We help the Bad Boys baseball team. We donated to quite a few organizations last year. I think we had about $3,500 in donations. We're here for the community and we want to be part of the community and help as much as we can. During the holidays last year, a person didn't have money to get their car fixed...so we went ahead and did it for free. Everybody has hard times, everybody needs help. Me and Spencer go above and beyond to help as many people as we can."

Alliance Motors has been giving back to the community by partnering with Alliance Police Department's "Lights On" program and donating to the schools.&nbsp;

According to the APD, when citizens observe someone who has an equipment violation on their car they are provided a voucher. Officers are also equipped with vouchers for traffic stops, but traffic stops aren’t emphasized.

The goal is to partner with the community for safety without an increase in traffic stops or making stops disproportionate regarding race or class.

"I think we are the only ones doing that," Alliance Motors Manager Jeff Erickson said. "It's been a good program. We've done a lot of them. Some of these light bulbs are really expensive so it's kind of hard for some people to afford them right now. I feel like we're helping the community by helping with that program. Of course, we're always trying to support the kids. That's what mostly I like to do with sports."

Red Beard Garage and Towing enjoys helping the Alliance community as well. They've donated to many businesses and non-profits in Box Butte County.&nbsp;

"Honestly, I think I donate to everything in our community," Red Beard Garage owner Lee Fritzler said. " I feel that’s what keeps our small town growing."

Rasmussen Performance and Repair (RPR) and Steve's Light Truck are proud to aid in giving back to Alliance.&nbsp;

"We always try to help out with the kids and younger generation by funding sports and equipment...and school events," RPR owner Blaine Rasmussen said. "They are in fact our future, so we must do what we can to help them thrive and succeed. The holiday season is tough for some people so every year we give away several hams and turkeys to people in need.  Every day we thrive to do the best we can at an affordable price. The strength and determination our community has is a wonderful thing and  RPR is proud to be part of it."

These auto shops are just a few in a long line of charitable efforts and causes supported by local businesses in Alliance and throughout the Panhandle. 

 Panhandle Post encourages everyone to support local businesses.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostAlliance auto shops have been giving back to the community for years to help citizens and grow Alliance.&nbsp;B &amp; S Repair Shop enjoys helping their customers and giving back to the community.&nbsp;"We donate a lot," B &amp; S owner Bobby Rog said. "Me and Spencer [Sanchez] have donated a lot to cancer patients. We help the Bad Boys baseball team. We donated to quite a few organizations last year. I think we had about $3,500 in donations. We're here for the community and we want to be part of the community and help as much as we can. During the holidays last year, a person didn't have money to get their car fixed...so we went ahead and did it for free. Everybody has hard times, everybody needs help. Me and Spencer go above and beyond to help as many people as we can."Alliance Motors has been giving back to the community by partnering with Alliance Police Department's "Lights On" program and donating to the schools.&nbsp;According to the APD, when citizens observe someone who has an equipment violation on their car they are provided a voucher. Officers are also equipped with vouchers for traffic stops, but traffic stops aren’t emphasized.The goal is to partner with the community for safety without an increase in traffic stops or making stops disproportionate regarding race or class."I think we are the only ones doing that," Alliance Motors Manager Jeff Erickson said. "It's been a good program. We've done a lot of them. Some of these light bulbs are really expensive so it's kind of hard for some people to afford them right now. I feel like we're helping the community by helping with that program. Of course, we're always trying to support the kids. That's what mostly I like to do with sports."Red Beard Garage and Towing enjoys helping the Alliance community as well. They've donated to many businesses and non-profits in Box Butte County.&nbsp;"Honestly, I think I donate to everything in our community," Red Beard Garage owner Lee Fritzler said. " I feel that’s what keeps our small town growing."Rasmussen Performance and Repair (RPR) and Steve's Light Truck are proud to aid in giving back to Alliance.&nbsp;"We always try to help out with the kids and younger generation by funding sports and equipment...and school events," RPR owner Blaine Rasmussen said. "They are in fact our future, so we must do what we can to help them thrive and succeed. The holiday season is tough for some people so every year we give away several hams and turkeys to people in need. Every day we thrive to do the best we can at an affordable price. The strength and determination our community has is a wonderful thing and RPR is proud to be part of it."These auto shops are just a few in a long line of charitable efforts and causes supported by local businesses in Alliance and throughout the Panhandle. Panhandle Post encourages everyone to support local businesses.

Alliance auto shops give back to the community 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska hospitals are stretched thin because of the current surge in coronavirus cases combined with the large number of health care workers who are out sick. 

Nebraska Medicine infectious disease specialist Dr. Angela Hewlett says hospital workers are tired and overwhelmed. 

The number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 statewide grew to 649 on Tuesday. 

Hospital officials have said they are close to their limits because they are also treating non-COVID patients, and the number of virus hospitalizations may double over the next couple weeks. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the state reported its highest one-day total of virus cases during the pandemic Monday with 7,557 new cases.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska hospitals are stretched thin because of the current surge in coronavirus cases combined with the large number of health care workers who are out sick. Nebraska Medicine infectious disease specialist Dr. Angela Hewlett says hospital workers are tired and overwhelmed. The number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 statewide grew to 649 on Tuesday. Hospital officials have said they are close to their limits because they are also treating non-COVID patients, and the number of virus hospitalizations may double over the next couple weeks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the state reported its highest one-day total of virus cases during the pandemic Monday with 7,557 new cases.

Nebraska hospitals stretched thin as virus surge continues

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A proposal that would have indirectly subsidized private K-12 schools in Nebraska by offering tax credits to scholarship donors has stalled in the Legislature. 

Supporters fell five votes short of the 33 they needed to overcome a filibuster and force a vote on the bill, which effectively sidelines it for the rest of this year’s session. 

Supporters pitched the measure as a way to give low-income students more choices if a public school doesn’t meet their needs, but the measure drew sharp opposition from others lawmakers, who argued it would divert tax dollars away from K-12 public schools.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A proposal that would have indirectly subsidized private K-12 schools in Nebraska by offering tax credits to scholarship donors has stalled in the Legislature. Supporters fell five votes short of the 33 they needed to overcome a filibuster and force a vote on the bill, which effectively sidelines it for the rest of this year’s session. Supporters pitched the measure as a way to give low-income students more choices if a public school doesn’t meet their needs, but the measure drew sharp opposition from others lawmakers, who argued it would divert tax dollars away from K-12 public schools.

Tax credit measure for private school donations fails

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Social Sciences Club is sponsoring several activities next week in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. No classes will convene Monday for the third year following a decision by the Nebraska State College System to recognize the national holiday.

President of the Social Sciences Club Laura Clay of Colorado Springs, Colorado, said the club is collaborating with other campus organizations to present events for three days.

10:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; March from the intersection of Third and Main to the CSC Student Center

Noon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lunch provided in the Student Center’s Ballroom

1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Student discussion panel in the Student Center’s Ballroom

6 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Open Mic Night in the Student Center’s Amphitheater (co-sponsored with Sigma Tau Delta)

5 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Book of the Month presentation, The Underground Railroad&nbsp;by Colson Whitehead,

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – The Chadron State College Social Sciences Club is sponsoring several activities next week in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. No classes will convene Monday for the third year following a decision by the Nebraska State College System to recognize the national holiday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642032572732.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College employees, students, and community members march south on Main Street Jan. 18, 2021, as part of MLK Day activities. (Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College employees, students, and community members march south on Main Street Jan. 18, 2021, as part of MLK Day activities. (Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>President of the Social Sciences Club Laura Clay of Colorado Springs, Colorado, said the club is collaborating with other campus organizations to present events for three days.Schedule:Monday10:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; March from the intersection of Third and Main to the CSC Student CenterNoon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lunch provided in the Student Center’s Ballroom1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Student discussion panel in the Student Center’s BallroomTuesday6 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Open Mic Night in the Student Center’s Amphitheater (co-sponsored with Sigma Tau Delta)Wednesday5 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Book of the Month presentation, The Underground Railroad&nbsp;by Colson Whitehead,(co-sponsored with King Library) in the Student Center’s Ponderosa Room

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