OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Omaha police say one of four suspects in a convenience store robbery fired shots at police officers chasing them, hitting a police car but not injuring anyone. 

Police say the shooting happened early Tuesday, around 3 a.m., after a person flagged down officers to report that a southwestern Omaha QuikTrip store was being robbed. 

Police say when officers attempted to pull over a car suspected in the robbery, someone inside the car fired several shots at the officers, hitting their car. 

A chase ensued, and police say three suspects were arrested about 14 miles away in Sarpy County. 

A fourth suspect was later found and arrested. 

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Omaha police say one of four suspects in a convenience store robbery fired shots at police officers chasing them, hitting a police car but not injuring anyone. Police say the shooting happened early Tuesday, around 3 a.m., after a person flagged down officers to report that a southwestern Omaha QuikTrip store was being robbed. Police say when officers attempted to pull over a car suspected in the robbery, someone inside the car fired several shots at the officers, hitting their car. A chase ensued, and police say three suspects were arrested about 14 miles away in Sarpy County. A fourth suspect was later found and arrested. Their names have not been released.

Omaha police say robbery suspect fired shots at officers

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A judge has cleared the way for newspaper publisher Lee Enterprises to use a voting system that will ensure two longtime directors are reelected at its upcoming annual meeting despite the objections of a hedge fund that is trying to buy the company. 

The Davenport, Iowa-based publisher said the Delaware judge rejected Alden Global Capital’s motion for an injunction in Alden’s latest lawsuit Friday.

The publisher of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Buffalo News, Lincoln Journal Star and dozens of other newspapers rejected Alden’s $141 million takeover offer in December because Lee said it “grossly undervalued” the company.

 The New York-based hedge fund has a reputation for imposing severe cuts and layoffs at the more than 200 newspapers it owns.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A judge has cleared the way for newspaper publisher Lee Enterprises to use a voting system that will ensure two longtime directors are reelected at its upcoming annual meeting despite the objections of a hedge fund that is trying to buy the company. The Davenport, Iowa-based publisher said the Delaware judge rejected Alden Global Capital’s motion for an injunction in Alden’s latest lawsuit Friday.The publisher of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Buffalo News, Lincoln Journal Star and dozens of other newspapers rejected Alden’s $141 million takeover offer in December because Lee said it “grossly undervalued” the company. The New York-based hedge fund has a reputation for imposing severe cuts and layoffs at the more than 200 newspapers it owns.

Hedge fund loses ruling in Lee Enterprises takeover fight

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/legislative-committee-still-divided-over-how-many-gambling-casinos-to-allow/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN
 — A state legislative committee remains divided over how many gambling 
casinos should be allowed in the state, and where they should be 
located, after a closed-door discussion Monday.

The
 Legislature’s General Affairs Committee discussed amendments to a 
casino proposal that would, among other things, bar any new horse 
racetracks with casinos — known as “racinos” — from being licensed in 
the state prior to January 2025.

But
 such a three-year moratorium brought some opposition within the 
eight-senator committee during the executive session. Such closed-door 
meetings are closed to the public, but the press is allowed to attend 
and report on the proceeding. The Nebraska Examiner was the only media 
present.

State
 Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha said the constitutional amendment approved 
by voters in November that legalizes casinos at licensed racetracks put 
no limits on the number. He said there was no reason to “stifle” the 
gambling industry.

“Really?” responded Papillion Sen. John Arch.

&nbsp;He
 said that he felt that voters approved casinos only at “racetracks,” 
meaning the existing six tracks in Omaha, Lincoln, Columbus, Grand 
Island, South Sioux City and Hastings.

North
 Platte Sen. Mike Jacobson, who was just appointed to the Legislature 
last week after the sudden resignation of Sen. Mike Groene, spoke up for
 a proposed racino in his community.&nbsp;

He
 said that with no existing racetracks west of Grand Island, residents 
of western Nebraska will have no outlet to gamble in a casino.

One
 amendment circulated by Albion Sen. Tom Briese, the chairman of the 
General Affairs Committee, would allow the existing racetracks in the 
state to relocate. That would clear the way for a discussed move of the 
state’s only quarter horse track, now located in Hastings, to North 
Platte.

Briese’s
 amendment would also require an extensive study before the State Racing
 Commission could approve new racinos. Such a study would include the “feasibility and sustainability” of a new racetrack/casino and its impact on the local economy and horseracing.

The
 amendment also would establish a minimum number of racing days at the 
existing and new tracks. Currently, racetracks have to hold only one 
race a year, which has sparked criticism that it doesn’t help rebuild 
the state’s ailing Thoroughbred industry, which was a main argument in 
legalizing casino betting at racetracks.&nbsp;

Briese’s amendment would require existing tracks to hold a
 minimum of five racing days and 50 live horse races annually beginning 
in 2026. By 2031, existing tracks would have to hold at least 15 race 
days and 120 horse races a year. The proposal also sets minimums for new
 racetracks, as well as raising the licensing fee for casinos from $1 
million to $5 million.

Kearney
 Sen. John Lowe urged caution, saying that California — a state with 
about 20 times the population of Nebraska — has only six racetracks.

He asked whether more than six tracks in Nebraska could be viable and attract enough racehorses.

Senators
 said they were getting a lot of lobbying to approve new racinos in 
places like North Platte, Ogallala, Gering, Norfolk and Bellevue. Some 
said they expected a filibuster against any bill they advance, meaning 
that votes of 33 of 49 senators would be required to advance a proposal.

Briese
 said he called Monday’s executive session to get more input on proposed
 amendments. He did not say when the General Affairs Committee might 
meet again to ponder whether to advance a casino bill for debate by the 
full Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646149812641.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/legislative-committee-still-divided-over-how-many-gambling-casinos-to-allow/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN
 — A state legislative committee remains divided over how many gambling 
casinos should be allowed in the state, and where they should be 
located, after a closed-door discussion Monday.The
 Legislature’s General Affairs Committee discussed amendments to a 
casino proposal that would, among other things, bar any new horse 
racetracks with casinos — known as “racinos” — from being licensed in 
the state prior to January 2025.But
 such a three-year moratorium brought some opposition within the 
eight-senator committee during the executive session. Such closed-door 
meetings are closed to the public, but the press is allowed to attend 
and report on the proceeding. The Nebraska Examiner was the only media 
present.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646149876996.jpeg" alt="Sen. Tom Briese of Albion (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tom Briese of Albion (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>No limits</h2>State
 Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha said the constitutional amendment approved 
by voters in November that legalizes casinos at licensed racetracks put 
no limits on the number. He said there was no reason to “stifle” the 
gambling industry.“Really?” responded Papillion Sen. John Arch.&nbsp;He
 said that he felt that voters approved casinos only at “racetracks,” 
meaning the existing six tracks in Omaha, Lincoln, Columbus, Grand 
Island, South Sioux City and Hastings.North
 Platte Sen. Mike Jacobson, who was just appointed to the Legislature 
last week after the sudden resignation of Sen. Mike Groene, spoke up for
 a proposed racino in his community.&nbsp;<h2>No casinos west of Grand Island</h2>He
 said that with no existing racetracks west of Grand Island, residents 
of western Nebraska will have no outlet to gamble in a casino.One
 amendment circulated by Albion Sen. Tom Briese, the chairman of the 
General Affairs Committee, would allow the existing racetracks in the 
state to relocate. That would clear the way for a discussed move of the 
state’s only quarter horse track, now located in Hastings, to North 
Platte.Briese’s
 amendment would also require an extensive study before the State Racing
 Commission could approve new racinos. Such a study would include the “feasibility and sustainability” of a new racetrack/casino and its impact on the local economy and horseracing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646149904314.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>The
 amendment also would establish a minimum number of racing days at the 
existing and new tracks. Currently, racetracks have to hold only one 
race a year, which has sparked criticism that it doesn’t help rebuild 
the state’s ailing Thoroughbred industry, which was a main argument in 
legalizing casino betting at racetracks.&nbsp;Briese’s amendment would require existing tracks to hold a
 minimum of five racing days and 50 live horse races annually beginning 
in 2026. By 2031, existing tracks would have to hold at least 15 race 
days and 120 horse races a year. The proposal also sets minimums for new
 racetracks, as well as raising the licensing fee for casinos from $1 
million to $5 million.Kearney
 Sen. John Lowe urged caution, saying that California — a state with 
about 20 times the population of Nebraska — has only six racetracks.<h2>Are six tracks enough?</h2>He asked whether more than six tracks in Nebraska could be viable and attract enough racehorses.Senators
 said they were getting a lot of lobbying to approve new racinos in 
places like North Platte, Ogallala, Gering, Norfolk and Bellevue. Some 
said they expected a filibuster against any bill they advance, meaning 
that votes of 33 of 49 senators would be required to advance a proposal.Briese
 said he called Monday’s executive session to get more input on proposed
 amendments. He did not say when the General Affairs Committee might 
meet again to ponder whether to advance a casino bill for debate by the 
full Legislature.

Legislative committee still divided over how many casinos to allow

NORTH PLATTE&nbsp; — During the evening hours of Friday, February 25, Nebraska State Patrol investigators conducted alcohol inspections in Dawson County.

This project was supported in whole or part by grant #93.959 under the SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Region II Human Services, and the Nebraska DHHS Division of Behavioral Health.

In total, 15 businesses were checked. Two businesses sold alcohol to a minor for a 13% non-compliance rate. One business failed to check the minor’s ID.

The businesses which failed the inspections were:

Mac’s Creek Winery and Brewery – Lexington (Did not check ID, sold to a minor)

Mac’s Short Stop – Lexington (Checked ID, sold to a minor)

The businesses checked included convenience stores, restaurants, a bowling alley, liquor stores, and bars. Businesses that fail the inspections are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Clerks who sell alcohol to a minor are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

By Nebraska State PatrolNORTH PLATTE&nbsp; — During the evening hours of Friday, February 25, Nebraska State Patrol investigators conducted alcohol inspections in Dawson County.This project was supported in whole or part by grant #93.959 under the SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Region II Human Services, and the Nebraska DHHS Division of Behavioral Health.In total, 15 businesses were checked. Two businesses sold alcohol to a minor for a 13% non-compliance rate. One business failed to check the minor’s ID.The businesses which failed the inspections were:Mac’s Creek Winery and Brewery – Lexington (Did not check ID, sold to a minor)Mac’s Short Stop – Lexington (Checked ID, sold to a minor)The businesses checked included convenience stores, restaurants, a bowling alley, liquor stores, and bars. Businesses that fail the inspections are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Clerks who sell alcohol to a minor are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

Alcohol inspections held in Dawson County

By JENNIFER SHUTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/28/heres-what-you-will-hear-biden-talk-about-in-his-debut-state-of-the-union/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden’s 
first State of the Union address is set to focus significantly on the 
economy, with the former member of the U.S. Senate calling on Congress 
to pass much of the agenda stalled in the so-called Build Back Better 
bill.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-background-on-president-bidens-remarks-on-the-economy-during-his-first-state-of-the-union-address/">During the Tuesday night speech</a>,
 which begins at 8 p.m. Kansas time, Biden will urge lawmakers to send 
him legislation that would lower prescription drug prices, reduce how 
much families pay for child care and create a national paid family and 
medical leave program, administration officials told reporters in a 
Monday briefing.

He’ll also call on Congress to pass 
tax legislation that would require corporations and the wealthiest 
Americans to “pay their fair share,” but not raise tax rates on people 
making less than $400,000, according to senior administration 
officials.&nbsp;

The policies made up the bulk of 
Democrats’ Build Back Better legislation, but administration officials 
said Biden might not actually use the name of the proposal during his 
speech.&nbsp;

“It’s not about the name of the bill, it’s about the ideas, it’s about lowering costs for families,” one official said.&nbsp;

Biden’s speech is expected to focus on global issues as well, particularly the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

But the part of the speech focused on
 domestic policy issues will give Biden another opportunity to try to 
rally support for initiatives that have been on ice since West Virginia 
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin III declared the $1.5 trillion climate and 
social spending package dead late last year.&nbsp;

Senior administration officials said 
Biden’s comments on the economy will focus on his “vision” for the 
country, particularly his proposals to lower costs for families while 
reducing the federal deficit.&nbsp;

To bolster U.S. economic 
competitiveness globally, Biden is expected to appeal to House and 
Senate leaders to reach a conference agreement on legislation that would
 authorize billions in additional funding for science and technology 
research to help the U.S. compete against China.&nbsp;

Biden will also call for a federal 
minimum wage of $15 an hour, a proposal that Democrats tried to enact 
last year when they drafted a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package.&nbsp;

The proposal was ultimately stripped 
from the bill after the Senate parliamentarian ruled it didn’t fit 
within the bounds of the budget process Democrats used to advance the 
package without Republican support.&nbsp;

In addition to calling on Congress to pass initiatives, Biden will focus on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-administration-announces-new-actions-to-address-the-needs-of-people-with-disabilities-and-older-adults-in-response-to-and-recovery-from-covid-19-2/">how his administration is working to implement </a>the roughly $550 billion bipartisan infrastructure law Congress approved last year.&nbsp;

Biden is expected to detail how the 
law will lead to improvements in 65,000 miles of roads; 1,500 bridges; 
15,000 new buses, ferries and subway cars; and 600 airport 
infrastructure projects.&nbsp;

He will then tell members of Congress
 how the law will allow the Environmental Protection Agency to fund more
 than 400 water projects and let the Army Corps of Engineers advance 
more than 500 projects.&nbsp;

Biden will also detail numerous <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-protecting-seniors-and-people-with-disabilities-by-improving-safety-and-quality-of-care-in-the-nations-nursing-homes/">ways his administration hopes to improve nursing home care, </a>including asking Congress to boost spending on health and safety inspections to $500 million, a nearly 25% increase.&nbsp;

The initiative through the Centers 
for Medicare and Medicaid Services will require nursing homes to have a 
minimum number of staff, promote individual rooms for residents, explore
 increasing fines on facilities not in line with standards and create a 
database to keep track of owners’ previous violations.&nbsp;

The administration officials didn’t 
mention if Biden would detail his climate change initiatives in the 
speech. Those proposals made up a significant portion of the Build Back 
Better plans.&nbsp;

The atmosphere of this year’s address
 will be significantly different from last year’s, which technically 
wasn’t a State of the Union, but a speech to a joint session of 
Congress.

The number of attendees won’t be 
nearly as limited as they were last year and members of Congress are no 
longer required to wear masks.&nbsp;

Immediately afterward, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/gov-kim-reynolds-to-deliver-state-of-the-union-response/">will deliver from Des Moines</a> the Republican response to Biden’s State of the Union address.

On Wednesday, Biden is scheduled to 
travel to Superior, Wisconsin, to “discuss Building a Better America,” 
according to the White House.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646093398965.png" alt="President Joe Biden delivers remarks on Dec. 8, 2021, at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority in Kansas City, Missouri. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden delivers remarks on Dec. 8, 2021, at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority in Kansas City, Missouri. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JENNIFER SHUTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/28/heres-what-you-will-hear-biden-talk-about-in-his-debut-state-of-the-union/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden’s 
first State of the Union address is set to focus significantly on the 
economy, with the former member of the U.S. Senate calling on Congress 
to pass much of the agenda stalled in the so-called Build Back Better 
bill.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-background-on-president-bidens-remarks-on-the-economy-during-his-first-state-of-the-union-address/">During the Tuesday night speech</a>,
 which begins at 8 p.m. Kansas time, Biden will urge lawmakers to send 
him legislation that would lower prescription drug prices, reduce how 
much families pay for child care and create a national paid family and 
medical leave program, administration officials told reporters in a 
Monday briefing.He’ll also call on Congress to pass 
tax legislation that would require corporations and the wealthiest 
Americans to “pay their fair share,” but not raise tax rates on people 
making less than $400,000, according to senior administration 
officials.&nbsp;The policies made up the bulk of 
Democrats’ Build Back Better legislation, but administration officials 
said Biden might not actually use the name of the proposal during his 
speech.&nbsp;“It’s not about the name of the bill, it’s about the ideas, it’s about lowering costs for families,” one official said.&nbsp;Biden’s speech is expected to focus on global issues as well, particularly the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;But the part of the speech focused on
 domestic policy issues will give Biden another opportunity to try to 
rally support for initiatives that have been on ice since West Virginia 
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin III declared the $1.5 trillion climate and 
social spending package dead late last year.&nbsp;Senior administration officials said 
Biden’s comments on the economy will focus on his “vision” for the 
country, particularly his proposals to lower costs for families while 
reducing the federal deficit.&nbsp;To bolster U.S. economic 
competitiveness globally, Biden is expected to appeal to House and 
Senate leaders to reach a conference agreement on legislation that would
 authorize billions in additional funding for science and technology 
research to help the U.S. compete against China.&nbsp;Biden will also call for a federal 
minimum wage of $15 an hour, a proposal that Democrats tried to enact 
last year when they drafted a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package.&nbsp;The proposal was ultimately stripped 
from the bill after the Senate parliamentarian ruled it didn’t fit 
within the bounds of the budget process Democrats used to advance the 
package without Republican support.&nbsp;In addition to calling on Congress to pass initiatives, Biden will focus on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-administration-announces-new-actions-to-address-the-needs-of-people-with-disabilities-and-older-adults-in-response-to-and-recovery-from-covid-19-2/">how his administration is working to implement </a>the roughly $550 billion bipartisan infrastructure law Congress approved last year.&nbsp;Biden is expected to detail how the 
law will lead to improvements in 65,000 miles of roads; 1,500 bridges; 
15,000 new buses, ferries and subway cars; and 600 airport 
infrastructure projects.&nbsp;He will then tell members of Congress
 how the law will allow the Environmental Protection Agency to fund more
 than 400 water projects and let the Army Corps of Engineers advance 
more than 500 projects.&nbsp;Biden will also detail numerous <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-protecting-seniors-and-people-with-disabilities-by-improving-safety-and-quality-of-care-in-the-nations-nursing-homes/">ways his administration hopes to improve nursing home care, </a>including asking Congress to boost spending on health and safety inspections to $500 million, a nearly 25% increase.&nbsp;The initiative through the Centers 
for Medicare and Medicaid Services will require nursing homes to have a 
minimum number of staff, promote individual rooms for residents, explore
 increasing fines on facilities not in line with standards and create a 
database to keep track of owners’ previous violations.&nbsp;The administration officials didn’t 
mention if Biden would detail his climate change initiatives in the 
speech. Those proposals made up a significant portion of the Build Back 
Better plans.&nbsp;The atmosphere of this year’s address
 will be significantly different from last year’s, which technically 
wasn’t a State of the Union, but a speech to a joint session of 
Congress.The number of attendees won’t be 
nearly as limited as they were last year and members of Congress are no 
longer required to wear masks.&nbsp;Immediately afterward, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/gov-kim-reynolds-to-deliver-state-of-the-union-response/">will deliver from Des Moines</a> the Republican response to Biden’s State of the Union address.On Wednesday, Biden is scheduled to 
travel to Superior, Wisconsin, to “discuss Building a Better America,” 
according to the White House.&nbsp;

Here’s what you will hear Biden talk about in State of the Union

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers of their 
reporting and potential tax obligations from working in the gig economy,
 making virtual currency transactions, earning foreign-source income or 
holding certain foreign assets. Information available on IRS.gov and 
instructions on Form 1040 can help taxpayers in understanding and 
meeting these reporting and tax requirements.

Generally, income earned from the gig economy is taxable and must be 
reported to the IRS. The gig economy is activity where people earn 
income providing on-demand work, services or goods. Often, it's through a
 digital platform like an app or website. Taxpayers must report income 
earned from the gig economy on a tax return, even if the income is:

For more information on the gig economy, visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/gig-economy-tax-center">gig economy tax center</a>.

Understand virtual currency reporting and tax requirements

The IRS reminds taxpayers that once again there is a question at the 
top of Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR asking about virtual currency 
transactions. All taxpayers filing these forms must check the box 
indicating either "yes" or "no." A transaction involving virtual 
currency includes, but is not limited to:

If an individual disposed of any virtual currency that was held 
as a capital asset through a sale, exchange or transfer, they should 
check "Yes" and use Form 8949 to figure their capital gain or loss and 
report it on Schedule D (Form 1040).

If they received any virtual currency as compensation for services or
 disposed of any virtual currency they held for sale to customers in a 
trade or business, they must report the income as they would report 
other income of the same type (for example, W-2 wages on Form 1040 or 
1040-SR, line 1, or inventory or services from Schedule C on Schedule 
1). More information on virtual currency can be found in Instruction for
 Form 1040 and on IRS.gov.

A U.S. citizen or resident alien's worldwide income is generally 
subject to U.S. income tax, regardless of where they live. They're also 
subject to the same income tax filing requirements that apply to U.S. 
citizens or resident aliens living in the United States.

U.S. citizens and resident aliens must report unearned income, such 
as interest, dividends, and pensions, from sources outside the United 
States unless exempt by law or a tax treaty. They must also report 
earned income, such as wages and tips, from sources outside the United 
States. An income tax filing requirement generally applies even if a 
taxpayer qualifies for tax benefits, such as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion">Foreign Earned Income Exclusion</a> or the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-tax-credit">Foreign Tax Credit</a>,
 which substantially reduce or eliminate U.S. tax liability. These tax 
benefits are only available if an eligible taxpayer files a U.S. income 
tax return.

A taxpayer is allowed an automatic 2-month extension to June 15 if 
both their tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto 
Rico. Even if allowed an extension, a taxpayer will have to pay interest
 on any tax not paid by the regular due date of April 18, 2022.

Those serving in the military outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the
 regular due date of their tax return also qualify for the extension to 
June 15. IRS recommends attaching a statement if one of these two 
situations apply. More information can be found in the<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf"> Instructions for Form 1040 and 1040-SR</a>&nbsp;PDF, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-54">Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p519">Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens</a>.

Reporting required for foreign accounts and assets

Federal law requires U.S. citizens and resident aliens to report 
their worldwide income, including income from foreign trusts and foreign
 bank and other financial accounts. In most cases, affected taxpayers 
need to complete and attach <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-b-form-1040">Schedule B</a>
 to their tax return. Part III of Schedule B asks about the existence of
 foreign accounts, such as bank and securities accounts, and usually 
requires U.S. citizens to report the country in which each account is 
located.

In addition, certain taxpayers may also have to complete and attach to their return <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8938">Form 8938, Statement of Foreign Financial Assets</a>.
 Generally, U.S. citizens, resident aliens and certain nonresident 
aliens must report specified foreign financial assets on this form if 
the aggregate value of those assets exceeds certain thresholds. See the 
instructions for this form for details.

Further, separate from reporting specified foreign financial assets 
on their tax return, taxpayers with an interest in, or signature or 
other authority over foreign financial accounts whose aggregate value 
exceeded $10,000 at any time during 2020, must file electronically with 
the Treasury Department a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) <a href="https://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov/NoRegFBARFiler.html">Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>.
 Because of this threshold, the IRS encourages taxpayers with foreign 
assets, even relatively small ones, to check if this filing requirement 
applies to them. The form is only available through the <a href="https://www.fincen.gov/bsa-e-filing-system">BSA E-filing System website</a>.

The deadline for filing the annual <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/report-of-foreign-bank-and-financial-accounts-fbar">Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>
 is the same as that of Form 1040. FinCEN grants filers who missed the 
original deadline an automatic extension until October 15, 2022, to file
 the FBAR. There is no need to request this extension.

This news release is part of a series called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p17">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers of their 
reporting and potential tax obligations from working in the gig economy,
 making virtual currency transactions, earning foreign-source income or 
holding certain foreign assets. Information available on IRS.gov and 
instructions on Form 1040 can help taxpayers in understanding and 
meeting these reporting and tax requirements.<h2>Gig economy earnings are taxable</h2>Generally, income earned from the gig economy is taxable and must be 
reported to the IRS. The gig economy is activity where people earn 
income providing on-demand work, services or goods. Often, it's through a
 digital platform like an app or website. Taxpayers must report income 
earned from the gig economy on a tax return, even if the income is:<ul>
 <li>From part-time, temporary or side work,</li><li>Not reported on an information return form - like a Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2 or other income statement or</li><li>Paid in any form, including cash, property, goods or virtual currency.</li>
 </ul>For more information on the gig economy, visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/gig-economy-tax-center">gig economy tax center</a>.<h2>Understand virtual currency reporting and tax requirements</h2>The IRS reminds taxpayers that once again there is a question at the 
top of Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR asking about virtual currency 
transactions. All taxpayers filing these forms must check the box 
indicating either "yes" or "no." A transaction involving virtual 
currency includes, but is not limited to:<ul>
 <li>The receipt of virtual currency as payment for goods or services provided;</li><li>The receipt or transfer of virtual currency for free (without 
providing any consideration) that does not qualify as a bona fide gift;</li><li>The receipt of new virtual currency as a result of mining and staking activities;</li><li>The receipt of virtual currency as a result of a hard fork;</li><li>An exchange of virtual currency for property, goods or services;</li><li>An exchange/trade of virtual currency for another virtual currency;</li><li>A sale of virtual currency; and</li><li>Any other disposition of a financial interest in virtual currency.</li>
 </ul>If an individual disposed of any virtual currency that was held 
as a capital asset through a sale, exchange or transfer, they should 
check "Yes" and use Form 8949 to figure their capital gain or loss and 
report it on Schedule D (Form 1040).If they received any virtual currency as compensation for services or
 disposed of any virtual currency they held for sale to customers in a 
trade or business, they must report the income as they would report 
other income of the same type (for example, W-2 wages on Form 1040 or 
1040-SR, line 1, or inventory or services from Schedule C on Schedule 
1). More information on virtual currency can be found in Instruction for
 Form 1040 and on IRS.gov.<h2>Report Foreign Source Income</h2>A U.S. citizen or resident alien's worldwide income is generally 
subject to U.S. income tax, regardless of where they live. They're also 
subject to the same income tax filing requirements that apply to U.S. 
citizens or resident aliens living in the United States.U.S. citizens and resident aliens must report unearned income, such 
as interest, dividends, and pensions, from sources outside the United 
States unless exempt by law or a tax treaty. They must also report 
earned income, such as wages and tips, from sources outside the United 
States. An income tax filing requirement generally applies even if a 
taxpayer qualifies for tax benefits, such as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion">Foreign Earned Income Exclusion</a> or the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-tax-credit">Foreign Tax Credit</a>,
 which substantially reduce or eliminate U.S. tax liability. These tax 
benefits are only available if an eligible taxpayer files a U.S. income 
tax return.A taxpayer is allowed an automatic 2-month extension to June 15 if 
both their tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto 
Rico. Even if allowed an extension, a taxpayer will have to pay interest
 on any tax not paid by the regular due date of April 18, 2022.Those serving in the military outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the
 regular due date of their tax return also qualify for the extension to 
June 15. IRS recommends attaching a statement if one of these two 
situations apply. More information can be found in the<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf"> Instructions for Form 1040 and 1040-SR</a>&nbsp;PDF, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-54">Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p519">Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens</a>.<h2>Reporting required for foreign accounts and assets</h2>Federal law requires U.S. citizens and resident aliens to report 
their worldwide income, including income from foreign trusts and foreign
 bank and other financial accounts. In most cases, affected taxpayers 
need to complete and attach <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-b-form-1040">Schedule B</a>
 to their tax return. Part III of Schedule B asks about the existence of
 foreign accounts, such as bank and securities accounts, and usually 
requires U.S. citizens to report the country in which each account is 
located.In addition, certain taxpayers may also have to complete and attach to their return <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8938">Form 8938, Statement of Foreign Financial Assets</a>.
 Generally, U.S. citizens, resident aliens and certain nonresident 
aliens must report specified foreign financial assets on this form if 
the aggregate value of those assets exceeds certain thresholds. See the 
instructions for this form for details.Further, separate from reporting specified foreign financial assets 
on their tax return, taxpayers with an interest in, or signature or 
other authority over foreign financial accounts whose aggregate value 
exceeded $10,000 at any time during 2020, must file electronically with 
the Treasury Department a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) <a href="https://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov/NoRegFBARFiler.html">Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>.
 Because of this threshold, the IRS encourages taxpayers with foreign 
assets, even relatively small ones, to check if this filing requirement 
applies to them. The form is only available through the <a href="https://www.fincen.gov/bsa-e-filing-system">BSA E-filing System website</a>.The deadline for filing the annual <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/report-of-foreign-bank-and-financial-accounts-fbar">Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>
 is the same as that of Form 1040. FinCEN grants filers who missed the 
original deadline an automatic extension until October 15, 2022, to file
 the FBAR. There is no need to request this extension.This news release is part of a series called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p17">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax</a>.

IRS: Report gig economy income, virtual currency transactions

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/03/01/bill-would-make-nebraska-a-bidder-to-become-a-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN
 — Could Nebraska lure $2 billion in federal funds and become one of 
four national hubs to expand development of clean hydrogen?

State
 lawmakers think so, after giving 43-0 first-round approval to a bill 
that would set up a working group to seek Nebraska’s designation as one 
of four “regional clean hydrogen hubs” in the U.S. working to expand use
 of the green fuel.

The federal Infrastructure
 Investment and Jobs Act set aside $8 billion to create four national 
hydrogen hubs to link up producers of hydrogen with industrial users and
 expand the use of hydrogen to generate power or fuel planes and 
vehicles.

State
 Sen. Bruce Bostelman of Brainard, who sponsored Legislative Bill 1099, 
called Nebraska a “prime candidate” to become one of the hubs, in large 
part due to the large-scale production of clean hydrogen by Monolith 
Materials and because of the state’s central location.

If
 LB 1099 passes, as expected, Nebraska would be the first state to show 
its support of becoming a clean hydrogen hub, according to State Sen. 
Anna Wishart of Lincoln, who works for Monolith.&nbsp;

That
 company, which moved from California to Nebraska in 2018, produces 
clean hydrogen and carbon black using natural gas. Carbon black has a 
variety of uses, including in tires and other rubber products. But 
Bostelman said carbon black has traditionally been produced using oil, 
which is a much dirtier process than using natural gas.&nbsp;

Monolith
 plans to use most of its hydrogen to produce anhydrous ammonia 
fertilizer as part of a $1 billion expansion of its Hallam, Nebraska, 
plant later this year. It would become the state’s largest user of 
electricity, officials said.&nbsp;

Plymouth
 Sen. Tom Brandt, who is a farmer, praised the Monolith project, which 
is in his legislative district. Not only has the company created 90 
good-paying, “clean energy” jobs and invested $100 million in its 
existing plant, he said, but it will create another 200 jobs with its 
expansion.

“It’s an economic success story for the State of Nebraska,” Brandt said.

Monolith
 initially wanted to use its hydrogen to create electricity at a nearby 
NPPD power station in Hallam. But when that proved not to be feasible, 
the business model was changed to produce anhydrous ammonia.

Brandt said that will benefit farmers, who have seen costs of the fertilizer rise from $400 a ton to $1,500 a ton. The U.S. is the largest importer of anhydrous ammonia in the world.

Wishart
 said developing and expanding the production of clean hydrogen is one 
of the keys if the nation is to be carbon-free by 2050. Hydrogen is 
being eyed as a fuel to power jet airplanes as well as heavy machinery.

Under
 an amendment to LB 1099 adopted Tuesday, local industries would pay the
 cost of hiring a consultant to prepare Nebraska’s bid to become a 
hydrogen hub. The bill had originally called for expenditures of 
$250,000 to hire a consultant.

The
 working group, Bostelman said, will include representatives of the 
Nebraska Department of Economic Development, the clean hydrogen industry
 and the manufacturing, transportation and agriculture sectors.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Energy is scheduled to name the four hubs by May 2023.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169655870.png" alt="Monolith Materials says its plant south of Lincoln is the largest facility of its kind in the world in producing clean hydrogen from natural gas (photo courtesy of Monolith Materials via Nebraska Reflector) " />
 <figcaption>Monolith Materials says its plant south of Lincoln is the largest facility of its kind in the world in producing clean hydrogen from natural gas (photo courtesy of Monolith Materials via Nebraska Reflector) </figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/03/01/bill-would-make-nebraska-a-bidder-to-become-a-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN
 — Could Nebraska lure $2 billion in federal funds and become one of 
four national hubs to expand development of clean hydrogen?State
 lawmakers think so, after giving 43-0 first-round approval to a bill 
that would set up a working group to seek Nebraska’s designation as one 
of four “regional clean hydrogen hubs” in the U.S. working to expand use
 of the green fuel.The federal Infrastructure
 Investment and Jobs Act set aside $8 billion to create four national 
hydrogen hubs to link up producers of hydrogen with industrial users and
 expand the use of hydrogen to generate power or fuel planes and 
vehicles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169718923.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Bruce L. Bostelman of Brainard (Gregory Nathan/University Communication)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Bruce L. Bostelman of Brainard (Gregory Nathan/University Communication)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘A prime candidate’</h2>State
 Sen. Bruce Bostelman of Brainard, who sponsored Legislative Bill 1099, 
called Nebraska a “prime candidate” to become one of the hubs, in large 
part due to the large-scale production of clean hydrogen by Monolith 
Materials and because of the state’s central location.If
 LB 1099 passes, as expected, Nebraska would be the first state to show 
its support of becoming a clean hydrogen hub, according to State Sen. 
Anna Wishart of Lincoln, who works for Monolith.&nbsp;That
 company, which moved from California to Nebraska in 2018, produces 
clean hydrogen and carbon black using natural gas. Carbon black has a 
variety of uses, including in tires and other rubber products. But 
Bostelman said carbon black has traditionally been produced using oil, 
which is a much dirtier process than using natural gas.&nbsp;Monolith
 plans to use most of its hydrogen to produce anhydrous ammonia 
fertilizer as part of a $1 billion expansion of its Hallam, Nebraska, 
plant later this year. It would become the state’s largest user of 
electricity, officials said.&nbsp;Plymouth
 Sen. Tom Brandt, who is a farmer, praised the Monolith project, which 
is in his legislative district. Not only has the company created 90 
good-paying, “clean energy” jobs and invested $100 million in its 
existing plant, he said, but it will create another 200 jobs with its 
expansion.“It’s an economic success story for the State of Nebraska,” Brandt said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169752197.jpeg" alt="Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Monolith
 initially wanted to use its hydrogen to create electricity at a nearby 
NPPD power station in Hallam. But when that proved not to be feasible, 
the business model was changed to produce anhydrous ammonia.<h2>Farmers could benefit</h2>Brandt said that will benefit farmers, who have seen costs of the fertilizer rise from $400 a ton to $1,500 a ton. The U.S. is the largest importer of anhydrous ammonia in the world.Wishart
 said developing and expanding the production of clean hydrogen is one 
of the keys if the nation is to be carbon-free by 2050. Hydrogen is 
being eyed as a fuel to power jet airplanes as well as heavy machinery.Under
 an amendment to LB 1099 adopted Tuesday, local industries would pay the
 cost of hiring a consultant to prepare Nebraska’s bid to become a 
hydrogen hub. The bill had originally called for expenditures of 
$250,000 to hire a consultant.The
 working group, Bostelman said, will include representatives of the 
Nebraska Department of Economic Development, the clean hydrogen industry
 and the manufacturing, transportation and agriculture sectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Energy is scheduled to name the four hubs by May 2023.&nbsp;

Bill would make Nebraska a bidder to become ‘clean hydrogen hub’

Grocery aisles have gaping empty
 sections, and shoppers can never predict what’s going to be 
unavailable. New car dealerships struggle to fill their empty lots. 
People building homes report long waits for critical materials like 
windows and doors. Almost every industry has shortages and delays that 
all boil down to supply chain issues.&nbsp;

Consumers and business owners are 
frustrated and confused. COVID-19 infection rates are declining, and 
restrictions have eased in most parts of America. Shouldn’t things be 
getting better by now?

BBB provides the following information on why supply chain 
disruption is still ongoing and tips on how businesses and consumers can
 combat it.&nbsp;

Everything from sandwich meat to 
household appliances seems to be in short supply, but how did it get 
this way? The disruption is so hard to fix because many of the factors 
that caused it still exist. Plus, once the global machine shuts down, it
 takes a while to get things started again, and all the pieces have to 
work together. These causes set off a chain of events.

Around the globe, production 
continues to be hampered by labor and materials shortages, so 
manufacturing happens in spurts and sputters. When one link in the 
supply chain gets broken, it affects everything that comes after.

Some economists say <a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/supply-chain-disruption-outlook" target="_blank">things should ease up later in 2022</a>, while others <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/business/supply-chain-disruption.html" target="_blank">expect problems to continue</a>
 into next year. There still aren’t enough workers to unload goods piled
 up at ports or enough truckers to distribute products across the United
 States. While COVID-19 restrictions have recently eased, it will take a
 while to sort out a complicated situation that was almost two years in 
the making.

Costs are up, employees are hard to find and there’s no end in sight. What can you do to keep your business running and your customers happy?&nbsp;

Consumers know there are problems, 
and while it’s normal to wish we could go back to the old normal, most 
people are understanding. Good communication goes a long way in times of
 crisis.

Supply chain disruption tips for consumers

What can you do when your car breaks 
down and the local mechanic can’t get the part you need for at least six
 weeks? How can you respond when it’s your child’s birthday and the gift
 he or she has been begging for is nowhere to be found? What do you do 
when half the items on your grocery list are out of stock? Here are a few ideas.

If you’re a consumer,
 BBB can help you make informed buying decisions. Search BBB business 
profiles, file a complaint when businesses don’t deliver on their 
promises, search ongoing scams and more using <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources">BBB consumer resources</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-hq" target="_blank">Consumer HQ</a>.

If you run a business,
 we can help you with everything from marketing to sales to building 
solid customer relationships. Apply for BBB Accreditation and start 
building trust through our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/business-resources">business resources page</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/your-business-hq" target="_blank">Business content HQ</a>.

<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-east-texas">BBB Serving Central East Texas</a> contributed this article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646151977079.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>BBBGrocery aisles have gaping empty
 sections, and shoppers can never predict what’s going to be 
unavailable. New car dealerships struggle to fill their empty lots. 
People building homes report long waits for critical materials like 
windows and doors. Almost every industry has shortages and delays that 
all boil down to supply chain issues.&nbsp;Consumers and business owners are 
frustrated and confused. COVID-19 infection rates are declining, and 
restrictions have eased in most parts of America. Shouldn’t things be 
getting better by now?BBB provides the following information on why supply chain 
disruption is still ongoing and tips on how businesses and consumers can
 combat it.&nbsp;<h2>Disruption causes</h2>Everything from sandwich meat to 
household appliances seems to be in short supply, but how did it get 
this way? The disruption is so hard to fix because many of the factors 
that caused it still exist. Plus, once the global machine shuts down, it
 takes a while to get things started again, and all the pieces have to 
work together. These causes set off a chain of events.<ul>
 <li>Governments worldwide responded to the Covid-19 pandemic with shutdowns.&nbsp;</li><li>Organizations halted production and laid off employees.</li><li>Component shortages began affecting everything from automobile production to the manufacture of medical devices.</li><li>Fewer goods were produced.&nbsp;</li><li>Demand
 surged as people stuck at home sought merchandise. The goods they 
wanted changed as lifestyles shifted. Funds previously allocated for 
things like haircuts, gym memberships and live entertainment now went 
toward products.</li><li>Government stimulus programs encouraged spending.</li><li>Protective gear needs spiked, and shipping and delivery of related goods took priority.</li><li>Shipping
 containers started to pile up in parts of the world where they weren’t 
needed and weren’t available where they were. Shipping costs skyrocketed
 and ports clogged.</li><li>Businesses
 experienced labor shortages. Trucking companies, warehouses and ports 
remained understaffed, further complicating distribution.</li><li>Because
 of staffing problems, imports were slow to get unloaded. Containers 
weren’t emptied and sent back for refilling, and loaded container ships 
sat idle outside ports.</li><li>Consumers and businesses started buying extra whenever they could find it, creating additional supply chain issues.</li>
 </ul>Around the globe, production 
continues to be hampered by labor and materials shortages, so 
manufacturing happens in spurts and sputters. When one link in the 
supply chain gets broken, it affects everything that comes after.<h2>How long will supply chain issues last?</h2>Some economists say <a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/supply-chain-disruption-outlook" target="_blank">things should ease up later in 2022</a>, while others <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/business/supply-chain-disruption.html" target="_blank">expect problems to continue</a>
 into next year. There still aren’t enough workers to unload goods piled
 up at ports or enough truckers to distribute products across the United
 States. While COVID-19 restrictions have recently eased, it will take a
 while to sort out a complicated situation that was almost two years in 
the making.<h2>Best practices for businesses</h2>Costs are up, employees are hard to find and there’s no end in sight. What can you do to keep your business running and your customers happy?&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Plan for more disruption
 – Nobody seems to have a working crystal ball right now, but you can 
count on more bottlenecks and shortages in the near future. Have more 
than one plan for addressing the next round of manufacturing and 
supplier delays.</li><li>Streamline what you offer
 – If you’re a restaurant, pare down your menu to include items that are
 easier to find. If you’re a retailer, order more from the manufacturers
 that have been coming through for you all along.</li><li>Create realistic expectations – Don’t overpromise. Communicate with the public what you offer and how much is available.&nbsp;</li><li>Offer incentives
 – If you run out of an item for which there’s high demand, consider 
offering a coupon or incentive that brings people back once you stock up
 again.</li><li>Invest in technology – Automate everything you can to free up overworked staff members for other things.</li><li>Improve your local network – If you can find business resources close to home, you skip import complications.</li>
 </ul>Consumers know there are problems, 
and while it’s normal to wish we could go back to the old normal, most 
people are understanding. Good communication goes a long way in times of
 crisis.<h2>Supply chain disruption tips for consumers</h2>What can you do when your car breaks 
down and the local mechanic can’t get the part you need for at least six
 weeks? How can you respond when it’s your child’s birthday and the gift
 he or she has been begging for is nowhere to be found? What do you do 
when half the items on your grocery list are out of stock? Here are a few ideas.<ul>
 <li>Shop around
 – Sometimes grocery chains and big box stores have empty shelves, but 
local mom and pop stores have found a way to procure merchandise.</li><li>Conserve – Cut back on what you use, so you don’t have to stock up as often.&nbsp;</li><li>Maintain
 – Appliances and automobiles are getting more expensive, and they can 
be hard to find. Invest in maintaining what you have so hopefully you 
won’t need to buy a replacement until today’s supply chain issues are in
 your rearview mirror.</li><li>Try new things
 – If you can’t find what’s on your list, infuse your search with a 
sense of adventure. You’ll discover flavors, brands and methods you 
might have otherwise missed.</li><li>Express gratitude
 – Thank the person stocking grocery shelves for his or her hard work. 
Buy that trucker at the gas station a cup of coffee. Show appreciation 
when you get seated at a restaurant, even if you had to wait longer than
 usual.</li>
 </ul><h2>BBB tools that can help</h2>If you’re a consumer,
 BBB can help you make informed buying decisions. Search BBB business 
profiles, file a complaint when businesses don’t deliver on their 
promises, search ongoing scams and more using <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources">BBB consumer resources</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-hq" target="_blank">Consumer HQ</a>.If you run a business,
 we can help you with everything from marketing to sales to building 
solid customer relationships. Apply for BBB Accreditation and start 
building trust through our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/business-resources">business resources page</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/your-business-hq" target="_blank">Business content HQ</a>.<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-east-texas">BBB Serving Central East Texas</a> contributed this article.

How businesses, consumers can cope with supply chain disruptions

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/nebraska-lottery-officials-want-to-sell-tickets-via-vending-machines/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —
 Facing increased competition from casino gambling, supporters of the 
Nebraska Lottery are seeking to utilize vending machines to maintain 
lottery ticket sales.

A legislative committee was told Monday that
 Nebraska is one of only three states with state lotteries that don’t 
allow sales via vending machines.

Allowing vending machines could increase 
sales by up to $3.9 million a year, legislators were told, which would 
translate into an additional $800,000 in yearly revenue for the 
beneficiaries of the State Lottery, which include the Nebraska State 
Fair and grants for environmental and educational purposes.

Supporters said legalizing vending machines 
would also help alleviate a workforce shortage in grocery stores and 
other retail outlets, by allowing retail clerks to handle other sales 
instead of lottery tickets.

“We think this is a win-win for the 
retailer, the consumer and the State Lottery,” said Rich Otto, who 
testified on behalf of the state retailer and grocery store 
associations.

Opponents of the idea told the Legislature’s
 General Affairs Committee that the increased lottery sales would 
translate into increased financial pain for low-income Nebraskans.

The poorest one-third of Americans buy 
one-half of all lottery tickets, thus impacting “the people who can 
afford it the least,” according to Nate Grasz of the Nebraska Family 
Alliance.

“Instead of lifting people up, this makes it much easier for people to lose more money,” Grasz said.

Pat Loontjer of Gambling with the Good Life,
 which opposes expanded gambling, said that increased lottery sales 
translate into less money for families to spend on food and other 
necessities.

State Sen. Eliott Bostar of Lincoln said 
that his main purpose for introducing Legislative Bill 1268, which would
 allow vending machines, was to alleviate work for employees of retail 
outlets, which are facing serious workforce shortages.

He added that Nebraskans have “time and time again” voiced their support for gambling.

Supporters of the bill pointed out that 
vending machines are already allowed to sell keno tickets and that the 
vending machines scan a driver’s license to ensure that purchasers are 
old enough — 19 years old or older — to legally buy lottery tickets. If a
 winning ticket is sold, it would have to be cashed in with a clerk, 
they added.

Brian Rockey, the director of the Nebraska 
Lottery, said some chain retailers won’t sell lottery tickets unless 
it’s via a vending machine. So passing the bill would increase locations
 where tickets would be sold, he said.

The General Affairs Committee took no action Monday on the vending machine bill after a public hearing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646089328158.png" alt="The Nebraska State Capitol Building in Lincoln. (Rebecca S. Gratz for Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska State Capitol Building in Lincoln. (Rebecca S. Gratz for Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/nebraska-lottery-officials-want-to-sell-tickets-via-vending-machines/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —
 Facing increased competition from casino gambling, supporters of the 
Nebraska Lottery are seeking to utilize vending machines to maintain 
lottery ticket sales.A legislative committee was told Monday that
 Nebraska is one of only three states with state lotteries that don’t 
allow sales via vending machines.Allowing vending machines could increase 
sales by up to $3.9 million a year, legislators were told, which would 
translate into an additional $800,000 in yearly revenue for the 
beneficiaries of the State Lottery, which include the Nebraska State 
Fair and grants for environmental and educational purposes.Supporters said legalizing vending machines 
would also help alleviate a workforce shortage in grocery stores and 
other retail outlets, by allowing retail clerks to handle other sales 
instead of lottery tickets.<h2>Seen as ‘win-win’ by retailers</h2>“We think this is a win-win for the 
retailer, the consumer and the State Lottery,” said Rich Otto, who 
testified on behalf of the state retailer and grocery store 
associations.Opponents of the idea told the Legislature’s
 General Affairs Committee that the increased lottery sales would 
translate into increased financial pain for low-income Nebraskans.The poorest one-third of Americans buy 
one-half of all lottery tickets, thus impacting “the people who can 
afford it the least,” according to Nate Grasz of the Nebraska Family 
Alliance.“Instead of lifting people up, this makes it much easier for people to lose more money,” Grasz said.<h2>Called harmful for low-income families</h2>Pat Loontjer of Gambling with the Good Life,
 which opposes expanded gambling, said that increased lottery sales 
translate into less money for families to spend on food and other 
necessities.State Sen. Eliott Bostar of Lincoln said 
that his main purpose for introducing Legislative Bill 1268, which would
 allow vending machines, was to alleviate work for employees of retail 
outlets, which are facing serious workforce shortages.He added that Nebraskans have “time and time again” voiced their support for gambling.Supporters of the bill pointed out that 
vending machines are already allowed to sell keno tickets and that the 
vending machines scan a driver’s license to ensure that purchasers are 
old enough — 19 years old or older — to legally buy lottery tickets. If a
 winning ticket is sold, it would have to be cashed in with a clerk, 
they added.Brian Rockey, the director of the Nebraska 
Lottery, said some chain retailers won’t sell lottery tickets unless 
it’s via a vending machine. So passing the bill would increase locations
 where tickets would be sold, he said.The General Affairs Committee took no action Monday on the vending machine bill after a public hearing.

Neb. lottery officials want to sell tickets via vending machines

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Vladimir Putin dramatically escalated East-West tensions by ordering Russian nuclear forces put on high alert Sunday, while Ukraine’s embattled leader agreed to talks with Moscow as Putin’s troops and tanks drove deeper into the country, closing in around the capital.

When asked on Monday if Americans should be worried about nuclear war, President Biden didn't hesitate.

Citing “aggressive statements” by NATO and tough financial sanctions, Putin issued a directive to increase the readiness of Russia’s nuclear weapons, raising fears that the invasion of Ukraine could lead to nuclear war, whether by design or mistake.

The Russian leader is “potentially putting in play forces that, if there’s a miscalculation, could make things much, much more dangerous,” said a senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss rapidly unfolding military operations.

Putin’s directive came as Russian forces encountered strong resistance from Ukraine defenders. Moscow has so far failed to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace, despite advances across the country. U.S. officials say they believe the invasion has been more difficult, and slower, than the Kremlin envisioned, though that could change as Moscow adapts.

Amid the mounting tensions, Western nations said they would tighten sanctions and buy and deliver weapons for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles for shooting down helicopters and other aircraft.

Representatives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with a Russian delegation at the Belarusian border on Monday.

It wasn’t immediately clear what the Kremlin was ultimately seeking, either in those potential talks on the border or, more broadly, from its war in Ukraine. Western officials believe Putin wants to overthrow Ukraine’s government and replace it with a regime of his own, reviving Moscow’s Cold War-era influence.

The fast-moving developments came as scattered fighting was reported in Kyiv. Battles also broke out in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, and strategic ports in the country’s south came under assault from Russian forces.

By late Sunday, Russian forces had taken Berdyansk, a Ukrainian city of 100,000 on the Azov Sea coast, according to Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy’s office. Russian troops also made advances toward Kherson, another city in the south of Ukraine, while Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that is considered a prime Russian target, is “hanging on,” Arestovich said.

With Russian troops closing in around Kyiv, a city of almost 3 million, the mayor of the capital expressed doubt that civilians could be evacuated. Authorities have been handing out weapons to anyone willing to defend the city. Ukraine is also releasing prisoners with military experience who want to fight, and training people to make firebombs.

In Mariupol, where Ukrainians were trying to fend off attack, a medical team at a city hospital desperately tried to revive a 6-year-old girl in unicorn pajamas who was mortally wounded in Russian shelling.

During the rescue attempt, a doctor in blue medical scrubs, pumping oxygen into the girl, looked directly into the Associated Press video camera capturing the scene.

“Show this to Putin,” he said angrily. “The eyes of this child, and crying doctors.”

Their resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl lay dead on a gurney, her jacket spattered with blood.

Nearly 900 kilometers (560 miles) away, Faina Bystritska was under threat in the city of Chernihiv.

“I wish I had never lived to see this,” said Bystritska, an 87-year-old Jewish survivor of World War II. She said sirens blare almost constantly in the city, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) from Kyiv.

Chernihiv residents have been told not to switch on any lights “so we don’t draw their attention,” said Bystritska, who has been living in a hallway, away from any windows, so she could better protect herself.

“The window glass constantly shakes, and there is this constant thundering noise,” she said.

Meanwhile, the top official in the European Union outlined plans by the 27-nation bloc to close its airspace to Russian airlines and buy weapons for Ukraine. The EU will also ban some pro-Kremlin media outlets, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The U.S. also stepped up the flow of weapons to Ukraine, announcing it will send Stinger missiles as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. Germany likewise plans to send 500 Stingers and other military supplies.

Also, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly scheduled an emergency session Monday on Russia’s invasion.

Putin, in ordering the nuclear alert, cited not only statements by NATO members but the hard-hitting financial sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, including Putin himself.

“Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading NATO members made aggressive statements regarding our country,” Putin said in televised comments.

U.S. defense officials would not disclose their current nuclear alert level except to say that the military is prepared all times to defend its homeland and allies.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told ABC that Putin is resorting to the pattern he used in the weeks before the invasion, “which is to manufacture threats that don’t exist in order to justify further aggression.”

The practical meaning of Putin’s order was not immediately clear. Russia and the United States typically have land- and submarine-based nuclear forces that are on alert and prepared for combat at all times, but nuclear-capable bombers and other aircraft are not.

If Putin is arming or otherwise raising the nuclear combat readiness of his bombers, or if he is ordering more ballistic missile submarines to sea, then the U.S. might feel compelled to respond in kind, said Hans Kristensen, a nuclear analyst at the Federation of American Scientists.

Earlier Sunday, Kyiv was eerily quiet after explosions lit up the morning sky and authorities reported blasts at one airport. A main boulevard was practically deserted as a strict curfew kept people off the streets. Authorities warned that anyone venturing out without a pass would be considered a Russian saboteur.

Terrified residents hunkered down in homes, underground garages and subway stations in anticipation of a full-scale Russian assault. Food and medicine were running low, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.

“Right now, the most important question is to defend our country,” Klitschko said.

In downtown Kharkiv, 86-year-old Olena Dudnik said she and her husband were nearly thrown from their bed by the pressure blast of a nearby explosion.

“We are suffering immensely,” she said by phone. “We don’t have much food in the pantry, and I worry the stores aren’t going to have anything either, if they reopen.” She added: “I just want the shooting to stop, people to stop being killed.”

Russia’s failure thus far to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace is a surprising lapse that has given outgunned Ukrainian forces a chance to slow the advance of Russian ground forces. Normally, gaining what the military calls air superiority is one of the first priorities for an invading force.

But even though Russian troops are being slowed by Ukrainian resistance, fuel shortages and other logistical problems, a senior U.S. defense official said that will probably change. “We are in day four. The Russians will learn and adapt,” the official said.

The number of casualties from Europe’s largest land conflict since World War II remained unclear amid the confusion.

Ukraine’s Interior Ministry said Sunday that 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, including 14 children. It said an additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov gave no figures on Russia’s dead and wounded but said Sunday his country’s losses were “many times” lower than Ukraine’s.

About 368,000 Ukrainians have arrived in neighboring countries since the invasion started Thursday, according to the U.N. refugee agency.

Along with military assistance, the U.S., European Union and Britain also agreed to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-european-union-704b3b6678c5d23bd05482c89a0384d2">selected Russian banks</a>&nbsp;from the SWIFT system, which moves money around thousands of banks and other financial institutions worldwide. They also moved to slap restrictions on Russia’s central bank.

Russia’s economy has taken a pounding since the invasion, with the ruble plunging and the central bank calling for calm to avoid bank runs.

Russia, which massed almost 200,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-updates-today-c489b6f56d84f9483802dc3f142cbc8e">its assault&nbsp;</a>is aimed only at military targets, but bridges, schools and residential neighborhoods have also been hit.

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Vladimir Putin dramatically escalated East-West tensions by ordering Russian nuclear forces put on high alert Sunday, while Ukraine’s embattled leader agreed to talks with Moscow as Putin’s troops and tanks drove deeper into the country, closing in around the capital.When asked on Monday if Americans should be worried about nuclear war, President Biden didn't hesitate.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Should Americans be worried about nuclear war?&quot; President Biden: &quot;No.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ZRg15av1l3">pic.twitter.com/ZRg15av1l3</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1498390465602797571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Citing “aggressive statements” by NATO and tough financial sanctions, Putin issued a directive to increase the readiness of Russia’s nuclear weapons, raising fears that the invasion of Ukraine could lead to nuclear war, whether by design or mistake.The Russian leader is “potentially putting in play forces that, if there’s a miscalculation, could make things much, much more dangerous,” said a senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss rapidly unfolding military operations.Putin’s directive came as Russian forces encountered strong resistance from Ukraine defenders. Moscow has so far failed to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace, despite advances across the country. U.S. officials say they believe the invasion has been more difficult, and slower, than the Kremlin envisioned, though that could change as Moscow adapts.Amid the mounting tensions, Western nations said they would tighten sanctions and buy and deliver weapons for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles for shooting down helicopters and other aircraft.Representatives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with a Russian delegation at the Belarusian border on Monday.It wasn’t immediately clear what the Kremlin was ultimately seeking, either in those potential talks on the border or, more broadly, from its war in Ukraine. Western officials believe Putin wants to overthrow Ukraine’s government and replace it with a regime of his own, reviving Moscow’s Cold War-era influence.The fast-moving developments came as scattered fighting was reported in Kyiv. Battles also broke out in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, and strategic ports in the country’s south came under assault from Russian forces.By late Sunday, Russian forces had taken Berdyansk, a Ukrainian city of 100,000 on the Azov Sea coast, according to Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy’s office. Russian troops also made advances toward Kherson, another city in the south of Ukraine, while Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that is considered a prime Russian target, is “hanging on,” Arestovich said.With Russian troops closing in around Kyiv, a city of almost 3 million, the mayor of the capital expressed doubt that civilians could be evacuated. Authorities have been handing out weapons to anyone willing to defend the city. Ukraine is also releasing prisoners with military experience who want to fight, and training people to make firebombs.In Mariupol, where Ukrainians were trying to fend off attack, a medical team at a city hospital desperately tried to revive a 6-year-old girl in unicorn pajamas who was mortally wounded in Russian shelling.During the rescue attempt, a doctor in blue medical scrubs, pumping oxygen into the girl, looked directly into the Associated Press video camera capturing the scene.“Show this to Putin,” he said angrily. “The eyes of this child, and crying doctors.”Their resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl lay dead on a gurney, her jacket spattered with blood.Nearly 900 kilometers (560 miles) away, Faina Bystritska was under threat in the city of Chernihiv.“I wish I had never lived to see this,” said Bystritska, an 87-year-old Jewish survivor of World War II. She said sirens blare almost constantly in the city, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) from Kyiv.Chernihiv residents have been told not to switch on any lights “so we don’t draw their attention,” said Bystritska, who has been living in a hallway, away from any windows, so she could better protect herself.“The window glass constantly shakes, and there is this constant thundering noise,” she said.Meanwhile, the top official in the European Union outlined plans by the 27-nation bloc to close its airspace to Russian airlines and buy weapons for Ukraine. The EU will also ban some pro-Kremlin media outlets, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.The U.S. also stepped up the flow of weapons to Ukraine, announcing it will send Stinger missiles as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. Germany likewise plans to send 500 Stingers and other military supplies.Also, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly scheduled an emergency session Monday on Russia’s invasion.Putin, in ordering the nuclear alert, cited not only statements by NATO members but the hard-hitting financial sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, including Putin himself.“Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading NATO members made aggressive statements regarding our country,” Putin said in televised comments.U.S. defense officials would not disclose their current nuclear alert level except to say that the military is prepared all times to defend its homeland and allies.White House press secretary Jen Psaki told ABC that Putin is resorting to the pattern he used in the weeks before the invasion, “which is to manufacture threats that don’t exist in order to justify further aggression.”The practical meaning of Putin’s order was not immediately clear. Russia and the United States typically have land- and submarine-based nuclear forces that are on alert and prepared for combat at all times, but nuclear-capable bombers and other aircraft are not.If Putin is arming or otherwise raising the nuclear combat readiness of his bombers, or if he is ordering more ballistic missile submarines to sea, then the U.S. might feel compelled to respond in kind, said Hans Kristensen, a nuclear analyst at the Federation of American Scientists.Earlier Sunday, Kyiv was eerily quiet after explosions lit up the morning sky and authorities reported blasts at one airport. A main boulevard was practically deserted as a strict curfew kept people off the streets. Authorities warned that anyone venturing out without a pass would be considered a Russian saboteur.Terrified residents hunkered down in homes, underground garages and subway stations in anticipation of a full-scale Russian assault. Food and medicine were running low, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.“Right now, the most important question is to defend our country,” Klitschko said.In downtown Kharkiv, 86-year-old Olena Dudnik said she and her husband were nearly thrown from their bed by the pressure blast of a nearby explosion.“We are suffering immensely,” she said by phone. “We don’t have much food in the pantry, and I worry the stores aren’t going to have anything either, if they reopen.” She added: “I just want the shooting to stop, people to stop being killed.”Russia’s failure thus far to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace is a surprising lapse that has given outgunned Ukrainian forces a chance to slow the advance of Russian ground forces. Normally, gaining what the military calls air superiority is one of the first priorities for an invading force.But even though Russian troops are being slowed by Ukrainian resistance, fuel shortages and other logistical problems, a senior U.S. defense official said that will probably change. “We are in day four. The Russians will learn and adapt,” the official said.The number of casualties from Europe’s largest land conflict since World War II remained unclear amid the confusion.Ukraine’s Interior Ministry said Sunday that 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, including 14 children. It said an additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov gave no figures on Russia’s dead and wounded but said Sunday his country’s losses were “many times” lower than Ukraine’s.About 368,000 Ukrainians have arrived in neighboring countries since the invasion started Thursday, according to the U.N. refugee agency.Along with military assistance, the U.S., European Union and Britain also agreed to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-european-union-704b3b6678c5d23bd05482c89a0384d2">selected Russian banks</a>&nbsp;from the SWIFT system, which moves money around thousands of banks and other financial institutions worldwide. They also moved to slap restrictions on Russia’s central bank.Russia’s economy has taken a pounding since the invasion, with the ruble plunging and the central bank calling for calm to avoid bank runs.Russia, which massed almost 200,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-updates-today-c489b6f56d84f9483802dc3f142cbc8e">its assault&nbsp;</a>is aimed only at military targets, but bridges, schools and residential neighborhoods have also been hit.___

President Biden: Americans should not worry about nuclear war

Online ranker Only In Your State heaped high praise on western Nebraska's state parks in an article titled "These 8 state parks in Nebraska will knock your socks off."

Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nebraska/ne-state-parks/">HERE</a> to read the entire article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638911449771.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Online ranker Only In Your State heaped high praise on western Nebraska's state parks in an article titled "These 8 state parks in Nebraska will knock your socks off."Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nebraska/ne-state-parks/">HERE</a> to read the entire article.

Western Nebraska state parks earn high praise

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — An 83-year-old man who was hit by a car while crossing a Lincoln street nearly seven week ago has died from his injuries. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that Russell Boardman, of Lincoln, died last week.

 Police say Boardman was in a marked crosswalk as he walked across South Street around 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 8 when he was hit by a car.

 Police say the 40-year-old driver of the car was not under the influence or distracted at the time of the crash. 

The Journal Star says no citations have been issued in the crash.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — An 83-year-old man who was hit by a car while crossing a Lincoln street nearly seven week ago has died from his injuries. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that Russell Boardman, of Lincoln, died last week. Police say Boardman was in a marked crosswalk as he walked across South Street around 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 8 when he was hit by a car. Police say the 40-year-old driver of the car was not under the influence or distracted at the time of the crash. The Journal Star says no citations have been issued in the crash.

Man hit crossing Lincoln street in January dies weeks later

By BRAD ASHFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/my-four-year-personal-health-journey/">Courtesy Nebraska Examiner</a>

Recently
 a friend asked me to record my personal health journey. I was hesitant 
to do so until I realized it might help others seek the medical help 
they need.

I have always tried to be healthy — watched 
my weight, participated in sports like basketball and rugby from high 
school on, never smoked, and ran every day. I ran in marathons, not with
 the expectation to win but as a challenge to myself. I always kept a 
very active schedule, including extensive travel for both work and 
pleasure.

For my term in Congress, I traveled back and
 forth between Washington and Omaha almost weekly and traveled with 
congressional delegations to the Middle East and Europe as part of my 
position on the House Armed Services Committee. I did not experience any
 health problems as a result of all those activities.

In the summer of 2017, I started 
experiencing shortness of breath during my regular runs and a persistent
 cough. I made an appointment with my primary care physician at 
Methodist Physicians Clinic. My internist ordered a chest X-ray, which 
showed a small lesion on one of my lungs. That lesion ended up saving my
 life. It was old scar tissue, perhaps from a childhood illness, but it 
provided the indication that further scans should be done.

Further diagnostic scans showed blood clots 
that were described a heavy load in both lungs. That started me on the 
journey to where I am today. We immediately started blood thinners and 
set upon a course of treatment. I saw a hematologist who was consulted 
for treatment recommendations, as well as for tests to determine if they
 could identify the cause of those blood clots.&nbsp; The cause never was 
determined, which in my understanding is true for about 75% of people 
with blood clots.

The treatment was proceeding and was 
successful enough to begin busting and shrinking some of the clot load. I
 did not go back to running, but switched to walking and biking. I was 
feeling and doing well enough to go on multiple-day bike trips and get 
back to working a full schedule.

In April 2019, the effects of the blood 
clots became emergent. I ended up as an inpatient at Nebraska Medicine 
for about a week. The blood clots had led to pulmonary hypertension 
which, in turn, produced right side heart damage. I was seriously ill. 
My heart was out of rhythm, with atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation.
 It was affecting my other organs, as well. They performed a 
cardioversion, which worked to shock my heart into normal rhythm. I also
 started a new regimen of drugs to address the pulmonary hypertension as
 well as the heart problems.

The new regimen worked for a while. In 
addition to medication, I went on a low-sodium diet and shed the extra 
fluids in my body that were making my organs have to work too hard. I 
was thin but felt well enough to again lead a normal life.

In October 2021, my family and I went to 
Disney World for a long weekend, and that is when I first seriously 
experienced any significant weakness on only one side of my body. I 
immediately went in to see my cardiologist at Nebraska Medicine, who 
leads the team taking care of my heart and lung problems.

We determined that one of the heart 
medications I was taking was probably not the best medication for me, 
and we halved the dosage. In addition, I began physical strength 
training sessions with a trainer who has extensive experience working 
with heart patients. The combination of the medication adjustment and 
training was working. I was consistently improving my pulmonary 
function, rarely if ever getting out of breath. I concentrated on 
bringing back the strength in my legs.

I continued long walks outside with my old 
running partner through Christmas and noticed some issues with weakness 
in my legs when I left the concrete path and got onto uneven ground. My 
wife, Ann, and I went to Charleston, South Carolina, in the middle of 
January for a few days to seek some warmth. Since beginning blood 
thinners, I had been unable to tolerate the cold. Charleston ended up 
being chillier than normal, and I started listing to one side again. The
 weakness was back and made it difficult to walk any distance. I had to 
lean heavily on Ann when moving around and was very unsteady. We arrived
 back home in Omaha on a Tuesday, and on Wednesday I was at the doctor’s
 office. They did a CT scan of my head and found nothing. (Feel free to 
point out the double meaning of that statement.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646077922728.png" alt="Former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford of Omaha (Courtesy of U.S. House Office of Photography)" />
 <figcaption>Former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford of Omaha (Courtesy of U.S. House Office of Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRAD ASHFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/my-four-year-personal-health-journey/">Courtesy Nebraska Examiner</a>Recently
 a friend asked me to record my personal health journey. I was hesitant 
to do so until I realized it might help others seek the medical help 
they need.I have always tried to be healthy — watched 
my weight, participated in sports like basketball and rugby from high 
school on, never smoked, and ran every day. I ran in marathons, not with
 the expectation to win but as a challenge to myself. I always kept a 
very active schedule, including extensive travel for both work and 
pleasure.For my term in Congress, I traveled back and
 forth between Washington and Omaha almost weekly and traveled with 
congressional delegations to the Middle East and Europe as part of my 
position on the House Armed Services Committee. I did not experience any
 health problems as a result of all those activities.In the summer of 2017, I started 
experiencing shortness of breath during my regular runs and a persistent
 cough. I made an appointment with my primary care physician at 
Methodist Physicians Clinic. My internist ordered a chest X-ray, which 
showed a small lesion on one of my lungs. That lesion ended up saving my
 life. It was old scar tissue, perhaps from a childhood illness, but it 
provided the indication that further scans should be done.<h2>Blood thinners</h2>Further diagnostic scans showed blood clots 
that were described a heavy load in both lungs. That started me on the 
journey to where I am today. We immediately started blood thinners and 
set upon a course of treatment. I saw a hematologist who was consulted 
for treatment recommendations, as well as for tests to determine if they
 could identify the cause of those blood clots.&nbsp; The cause never was 
determined, which in my understanding is true for about 75% of people 
with blood clots.The treatment was proceeding and was 
successful enough to begin busting and shrinking some of the clot load. I
 did not go back to running, but switched to walking and biking. I was 
feeling and doing well enough to go on multiple-day bike trips and get 
back to working a full schedule.In April 2019, the effects of the blood 
clots became emergent. I ended up as an inpatient at Nebraska Medicine 
for about a week. The blood clots had led to pulmonary hypertension 
which, in turn, produced right side heart damage. I was seriously ill. 
My heart was out of rhythm, with atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation.
 It was affecting my other organs, as well. They performed a 
cardioversion, which worked to shock my heart into normal rhythm. I also
 started a new regimen of drugs to address the pulmonary hypertension as
 well as the heart problems.The new regimen worked for a while. In 
addition to medication, I went on a low-sodium diet and shed the extra 
fluids in my body that were making my organs have to work too hard. I 
was thin but felt well enough to again lead a normal life.<h2>Strength training helped</h2>In October 2021, my family and I went to 
Disney World for a long weekend, and that is when I first seriously 
experienced any significant weakness on only one side of my body. I 
immediately went in to see my cardiologist at Nebraska Medicine, who 
leads the team taking care of my heart and lung problems.We determined that one of the heart 
medications I was taking was probably not the best medication for me, 
and we halved the dosage. In addition, I began physical strength 
training sessions with a trainer who has extensive experience working 
with heart patients. The combination of the medication adjustment and 
training was working. I was consistently improving my pulmonary 
function, rarely if ever getting out of breath. I concentrated on 
bringing back the strength in my legs.I continued long walks outside with my old 
running partner through Christmas and noticed some issues with weakness 
in my legs when I left the concrete path and got onto uneven ground. My 
wife, Ann, and I went to Charleston, South Carolina, in the middle of 
January for a few days to seek some warmth. Since beginning blood 
thinners, I had been unable to tolerate the cold. Charleston ended up 
being chillier than normal, and I started listing to one side again. The
 weakness was back and made it difficult to walk any distance. I had to 
lean heavily on Ann when moving around and was very unsteady. We arrived
 back home in Omaha on a Tuesday, and on Wednesday I was at the doctor’s
 office. They did a CT scan of my head and found nothing. (Feel free to 
point out the double meaning of that statement.)After an EKG, it was determined my heart was
 in atrial flutter, and my heart rate was very low.&nbsp; We scheduled 
another cardioversion to get my heart back in regular rhythm and stopped
 one of my heart medications, as its side effects include possible 
weakness in the limbs.<h2>Fell through glass door</h2>I was still able to walk on my own, a little
 unsteady with some weakness in my limbs, but I asked for and got 
medical clearance to go to California with my daughter for a few days 
beginning on the upcoming Sunday, Jan. 23. I was still seeking the 
warmth since I was constantly cold.The first night Ellie and I were in Palm 
Springs, I was unsteady getting up after dinner. There was a threshold 
in the floor that I missed, and I ended up falling through a glass door.
 No visible signs of injury but the paramedics were called, and they 
took me to the local emergency room to monitor for signs of bleeding on 
the brain, since I was on blood thinners. At the Palm Springs hospital, 
they did another CT scan of my brain, and again, nothing was found to 
identify a problem. I was released, used a cane for the rest of my time 
in California, and arrived back in Omaha on Jan. 27. I was getting 
progressively weaker, and so the next day, I was checked into the 
hospital to move up my cardioversion.During my stay at Nebraska Medicine, I also 
underwent a right-side heart catheterization, which identified more 
serious issues with my pulmonary hypertension and perfusion. Long story 
short, my extremities were not getting enough oxygen. After the 
cardioversion, I was released to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in 
Omaha to build back my strength to a point where I could return home 
with a walker. We considered that the issues with weakness, especially 
those affecting one side of my body more than the other, might be 
neurological in nature. But my pulmonary hypertension and cardiac 
issues, on top of the two negative CT brain scans during a one-week 
period, pushed that idea to the side.At Madonna, I made some progress using a 
walker — until I didn’t. On Monday, Feb. 14, Madonna ordered another CT 
scan of my brain, and this time something showed up: a lesion or 
abnormality that had not been visible two weeks prior. We were able to 
find an inpatient bed at Nebraska Medicine, and I was transferred there 
that night.<h2>Glioblastoma diagnosed</h2>The MRI of my brain showed clearly that 
there was a mass in my brain. I was checked for other signs of cancer 
throughout my body and, thankfully, no others appeared.&nbsp; On Wednesday, 
Feb. 16, I had a pacemaker put in to get my heart to beat fast enough. 
And on Friday, Feb. 18, I had a biopsy of the lesion in my brain. We had
 hoped it would be an abscess caused by an infection, but it is a 
glioblastoma. As of this writing, we are waiting for our appointment on 
Monday to tell us exactly what type of tumor it is and what the course 
will be to treat and manage this disease.I share this because I hope some will benefit from the lessons I have learned:<ul>
 <li>Make sure you have a primary care physician who knows you and your medical history.</li><li>Don’t be too proud to call your doctor and describe what you are experiencing. You don’t want to have to call 911.</li><li>Be your own health advocate. You know your body better than anyone and know when something isn’t right.</li><li>When people offer to help, take it. Our community is incredibly generous, and every outreach is greatly appreciated.</li><li>The health care resources in this city are unparalleled. I 
personally am part of the Nebraska Medicine system and spent time at 
Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Omaha, and both deliver on their 
health care promises.</li>
 </ul>There are no words to describe the 
commitment of our health care professionals, from the caregivers to the 
environmental service workers and everyone else. They have been through 
so much these last couple of years and continue to work selflessly for 
the benefit of us all.Finally, my health care journey is but a 
small part of my life story. I am strengthening myself to get back to 
work urging all of us to adopt a New Attitude. We must come together; we
 must care for one another; and we must actually accomplish that which 
we need to do to move us forward.Brad Ashford is a public servant and attorney. He served four terms in the Nebraska Unicameral Legislature and one term in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brad's focus now is bringing a New Attitude to all involved in governance — to work together without regard to labels. He lives with his wife, Ann, in Omaha.