LINCOLN, NEB. – “As President-Elect Trump finalizes his cabinet, Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are looking forward to learning and hearing more from this solid selection of cabinet and other senior level appointees. The federal policy "to-do" list of farm and ranch families is long with a new Farm Bill that provides additional risk management and trade promotion resources, expanding trade access to new markets around the globe, extending the Trump tax cuts of 2017, and ensuring environmental and other federal regulations make sense for agriculture are all at the top of the list. 

We look forward to working directly with each of President Trump's appointees to help ensure a bright economic future for Nebraska's farm and ranch families who remain dedicated to providing the food, fiber, and energy for the state, the nation, and the world."

The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm Bureau&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB. – “As President-Elect Trump finalizes his cabinet, Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are looking forward to learning and hearing more from this solid selection of cabinet and other senior level appointees. The federal policy "to-do" list of farm and ranch families is long with a new Farm Bill that provides additional risk management and trade promotion resources, expanding trade access to new markets around the globe, extending the Trump tax cuts of 2017, and ensuring environmental and other federal regulations make sense for agriculture are all at the top of the list. We look forward to working directly with each of President Trump's appointees to help ensure a bright economic future for Nebraska's farm and ranch families who remain dedicated to providing the food, fiber, and energy for the state, the nation, and the world."The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Statement by Mark McHargue, NFB President, Regarding President-Elect Trump’s Cabinet Nominees

Nebraska Department of Transporation

 (Omaha, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is encouraging drivers to use good sportsmanship and follow suggested routes during the 2024 “Heroes Game” between the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers and University of Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City this week. 

This year’s game takes place November 29 at 6:30 p.m. and is expected to draw attendees from across Nebraska and Iowa. Significant event traffic is anticipated near Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, so please be patient and cautious when heading to and from the event. 

NDOT, in partnership with Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), recommends the following recommended routes to the game: 

• For drivers arriving in Iowa City from the west: Travel Interstate 80 (I-80) east to U.S. Highway 218 (US-218)/Iowa 27 (IA-27) at Exit 239. Then follow US-218 South to Melrose Avenue at Exit 93, then Melrose Avenue east to Kinnick Stadium. When returning home, take the same route in reverse, starting with Melrose Avenue east to US-218/IA-27 north and then I-80 west.

Both DOTs want drivers to be aware that construction activities are occurring on common routes to and from the game, including: 

• Lane shifts west of Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 110 De Soto and Exit 113 Van Meter 

• Lane shifts in western Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 118 Grand Prairie Parkway and Exit 121 Jordan Creek Parkway 

• Closure of the Victor westbound rest area 

Drivers are reminded to use extra caution in construction zones. When possible, drivers involved in a crash during event traffic should move both vehicles to the shoulder before reporting the incident. Remember: If you drink, never drive. Find a ride home using ride-sharing apps or by calling a sober friend or family member. For more detailed information on the 2024 Heroes Game, visit the 2024 Nebraska football schedule or 2024 Iowa football schedule.  

More information about NDOT and Omaha metro area city and county projects can be found at ndot.info/mtm For a real-time look at traffic, visit 511.nebraska.gov or 511ia.org. Stay safe during construction – plan ahead, follow detours and always remember: buckle up, phone down.

Nebraska Department of Transporation (Omaha, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is encouraging drivers to use good sportsmanship and follow suggested routes during the 2024 “Heroes Game” between the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers and University of Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City this week. This year’s game takes place November 29 at 6:30 p.m. and is expected to draw attendees from across Nebraska and Iowa. Significant event traffic is anticipated near Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, so please be patient and cautious when heading to and from the event. NDOT, in partnership with Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), recommends the following recommended routes to the game: • For drivers arriving in Iowa City from the west: Travel Interstate 80 (I-80) east to U.S. Highway 218 (US-218)/Iowa 27 (IA-27) at Exit 239. Then follow US-218 South to Melrose Avenue at Exit 93, then Melrose Avenue east to Kinnick Stadium. When returning home, take the same route in reverse, starting with Melrose Avenue east to US-218/IA-27 north and then I-80 west.Both DOTs want drivers to be aware that construction activities are occurring on common routes to and from the game, including: • Lane shifts west of Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 110 De Soto and Exit 113 Van Meter • Lane shifts in western Des Moines on I-80 between Exit 118 Grand Prairie Parkway and Exit 121 Jordan Creek Parkway • Closure of the Victor westbound rest area Drivers are reminded to use extra caution in construction zones. When possible, drivers involved in a crash during event traffic should move both vehicles to the shoulder before reporting the incident. Remember: If you drink, never drive. Find a ride home using ride-sharing apps or by calling a sober friend or family member. For more detailed information on the 2024 Heroes Game, visit the 2024 Nebraska football schedule or 2024 Iowa football schedule. More information about NDOT and Omaha metro area city and county projects can be found at ndot.info/mtm For a real-time look at traffic, visit 511.nebraska.gov or 511ia.org. Stay safe during construction – plan ahead, follow detours and always remember: buckle up, phone down.

Use Good Sportsmanship and Recommended Routes to  and from the Annual “Heroes Game”

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-nurse-gets-licenses-yanked-in-connection-with-weight-loss-business/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A Nebraska nurse has had her licenses revoked for at least two years by the state’s chief medical officer for alleged fraud related to her business, which advertises weight-loss medications on social media, according to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

Andrea Meisinger of Weeping Water, an advanced practice registered nurse and registered nurse, has been running a business called AR Virtual Health, which markets medications such as Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for weight loss on its website, the Attorney General’s Office said in a news release issued Friday.

In a settlement agreement filed with the State Department of Health and Human Services, Meisinger said she neither admits nor denies allegations by the Attorney General’s Office. But she consented to the order from Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Nebraska’s chief medical officer, that finds the allegations to be true and that grounds exist to revoke her licenses.

Meisinger, who was not immediately available for comment Friday, agreed to pay a civil penalty of $16,000. She allegedly prescribed to patients while her Nebraska licenses were suspended and authorized prescriptions to patients in states where she does not hold the required licensure.

She acknowledged that the revocation of her nursing licenses is for a minimum of two years and reinstatement is at the discretion of the Department of Health and Human Services and upon approval by the respective state nursing board.

The order signed by Tesmer was in response to a Nov. 5 petition filed by the Attorney General’s Office to seek disciplinary action, to revoke probation and to temporarily suspend Meisinger’s licenses.

The petition alleged that Meisinger was practicing a profession fraudulently, beyond authorized scope or with incompetence or negligence, including obtaining a fee for professional services by fraud, deceit or misrepresentation.

Previously, the Attorney General’s Office filed a petition May 16 alleging that Meisinger was trying to sell Tirzepatide without establishing any patient/provider relationship.

As a result of that lawsuit, Tesmer had ordered Meisinger to pay a $3,000 civil penalty and placed her on probation for a year. Her licenses were to be suspended and she was not to engage in activity that constitutes the practice of APRN or nursing.

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-nurse-gets-licenses-yanked-in-connection-with-weight-loss-business/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A Nebraska nurse has had her licenses revoked for at least two years by the state’s chief medical officer for alleged fraud related to her business, which advertises weight-loss medications on social media, according to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.Andrea Meisinger of Weeping Water, an advanced practice registered nurse and registered nurse, has been running a business called AR Virtual Health, which markets medications such as Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for weight loss on its website, the Attorney General’s Office said in a news release issued Friday.In a settlement agreement filed with the State Department of Health and Human Services, Meisinger said she neither admits nor denies allegations by the Attorney General’s Office. But she consented to the order from Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Nebraska’s chief medical officer, that finds the allegations to be true and that grounds exist to revoke her licenses.Meisinger, who was not immediately available for comment Friday, agreed to pay a civil penalty of $16,000. She allegedly prescribed to patients while her Nebraska licenses were suspended and authorized prescriptions to patients in states where she does not hold the required licensure.She acknowledged that the revocation of her nursing licenses is for a minimum of two years and reinstatement is at the discretion of the Department of Health and Human Services and upon approval by the respective state nursing board.The order signed by Tesmer was in response to a Nov. 5 petition filed by the Attorney General’s Office to seek disciplinary action, to revoke probation and to temporarily suspend Meisinger’s licenses.The petition alleged that Meisinger was practicing a profession fraudulently, beyond authorized scope or with incompetence or negligence, including obtaining a fee for professional services by fraud, deceit or misrepresentation.Previously, the Attorney General’s Office filed a petition May 16 alleging that Meisinger was trying to sell Tirzepatide without establishing any patient/provider relationship.As a result of that lawsuit, Tesmer had ordered Meisinger to pay a $3,000 civil penalty and placed her on probation for a year. Her licenses were to be suspended and she was not to engage in activity that constitutes the practice of APRN or nursing.According to Tesmer, Meisinger:<ul>
 <li>Provided prescriptions to a Georgia patient, although she held no licensure in Georgia.</li><li>Provided care to a patient in Illinois, where she holds no licensure.</li><li>Held virtual appointments with a Nebraska patient while her license was suspended.</li><li>Prescribed medications in numerous states with no licensure.</li><li>Shipped patient medications to her own address or to a coworker/friend.</li><li>Authorized dozens of prescriptions to Nebraska patients while her license was suspended.</li>
 </ul>

Nebraska nurse gets licenses yanked in connection with weight-loss business

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/25/national-child-literacy-group-aims-for-big-ne-growth-and-leading-the-charge-is-a-husker-native/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — A national early literacy program that has announced plans to at least triple its reach in Nebraska — and to serve 10 million children across the U.S. by 2030 — has a personal Husker connection.

The nonprofit, called&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/" target="_blank">Reach Out and Read</a>, uses a model that works through pediatricians and routine well-child visits to get books into the hands of preschoolers. The idea is to better prepare youngsters for school while at the same time building healthier bonds by involving parents.

Leading the effort and the 35-year-old organization is Omaha-born Marty Martinez, who has lived in Boston the past 25 years and most recently served as that city’s chief of Health and Human Services.

Martinez, who helped push Boston through COVID-19’s social and economic challenges, said that as a public health expert and dad of a 6-year-old, he recognizes the impact school readiness and healthy relationships have on kids.&nbsp;

He said science shows that a child’s brain is about 80% adult size by the time they are 3 years old. Engaging a child with a book, reading aloud, describing images and interacting helps “spark the brain” and prepare the child for lifelong learning, he said.

“You’ve got to integrate books and language at the earliest stage possible,” said Martinez.&nbsp;

Reach Out and Read is the only national&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ROR-Exposure-Research-FINAL.080723.pdf" target="_blank">pediatric literacy model</a>&nbsp;endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, its leadership says, and has “unparalleled access” to families and children through the near-universal reach of pediatric well-child visits and partnerships with tens of thousands of doctors.

Martinez, who took the CEO reins of Reach Out and Read in 2022, described its model as simple: “We integrate children’s books and we train the doctor.”

In Nebraska, the program started at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oneworldomaha.org/" target="_blank">OneWorld Community</a>&nbsp;Health Centers in 2000 and has since expanded to 35 sites. This fiscal year, nearly 39,000 children were served in the state during about 77,000 well-child visits.

Nearly 53,000 books were distributed to those Nebraska families.

Under the expansion plan, the Nebraska program is merging with the larger Iowa program to become the new Reach Out and Read Midwest affiliate. The goal is to reach more than 360,000 children under the age of 5 across both states by 2030.

This past year, Nebraska and Iowa served about 120,000 kids through Reach Out and Read, a spokeswoman for the organization said.

The emphasis for the new Midwest affiliate is on children in low-income households and children of color.

Already the organization offers books in 28 different languages.

Parents exposed to the program are more likely to read with their children daily, according&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/why-we-matter/the-evidence/" target="_blank">to the program’s research</a>. And those children demonstrate improvements in language development. The nonprofit says books are beneficial even for families that do not read.

Funding comes from a variety of sources — Martinez said the organization is in the public budget of 26 cities and states across the country.

In Nebraska, donors include Buffett Early Childhood Fund, Elevance, Janet Kahler, Lozier Foundation, Nomi Health, Better World Books and Nebraska Children and Families Foundation/Nebraska Growing Readers Initiative.

While the bulk of Nebraska sites are in the urban centers of Omaha and Lincoln, Martinez said the goal is to reach more into rural areas as well. More staff is to be hired.

“The program paves the way for all children, regardless of background, to develop foundational literacy skills and strengthen the essential relationships needed for a successful future,” said Kristin Christensen, the newly hired Midwest program manager.

Martinez went to South Omaha’s Spring Lake Elementary School before graduating from Ralston High School, Nebraska Wesleyan University and Tufts University in Massachusetts, where he obtained a master’s degree in urban and social policy.

Having many siblings and cousins still in Nebraska, Martinez, 47, and his husband and son visit often.

Reach Out and Read has been thriving in some of the biggest clinics and places in the country, Martinez said, and he would like to see more impact in his home state.

“We’re really excited to move it forward,” he said. “There is so much room to grow.”

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/25/national-child-literacy-group-aims-for-big-ne-growth-and-leading-the-charge-is-a-husker-native/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — A national early literacy program that has announced plans to at least triple its reach in Nebraska — and to serve 10 million children across the U.S. by 2030 — has a personal Husker connection.The nonprofit, called&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/" target="_blank">Reach Out and Read</a>, uses a model that works through pediatricians and routine well-child visits to get books into the hands of preschoolers. The idea is to better prepare youngsters for school while at the same time building healthier bonds by involving parents.Leading the effort and the 35-year-old organization is Omaha-born Marty Martinez, who has lived in Boston the past 25 years and most recently served as that city’s chief of Health and Human Services.Martinez, who helped push Boston through COVID-19’s social and economic challenges, said that as a public health expert and dad of a 6-year-old, he recognizes the impact school readiness and healthy relationships have on kids.&nbsp;He said science shows that a child’s brain is about 80% adult size by the time they are 3 years old. Engaging a child with a book, reading aloud, describing images and interacting helps “spark the brain” and prepare the child for lifelong learning, he said.“You’ve got to integrate books and language at the earliest stage possible,” said Martinez.&nbsp;<h2>Unique endorsement</h2>Reach Out and Read is the only national&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ROR-Exposure-Research-FINAL.080723.pdf" target="_blank">pediatric literacy model</a>&nbsp;endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, its leadership says, and has “unparalleled access” to families and children through the near-universal reach of pediatric well-child visits and partnerships with tens of thousands of doctors.Martinez, who took the CEO reins of Reach Out and Read in 2022, described its model as simple: “We integrate children’s books and we train the doctor.”In Nebraska, the program started at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oneworldomaha.org/" target="_blank">OneWorld Community</a>&nbsp;Health Centers in 2000 and has since expanded to 35 sites. This fiscal year, nearly 39,000 children were served in the state during about 77,000 well-child visits.Nearly 53,000 books were distributed to those Nebraska families.Under the expansion plan, the Nebraska program is merging with the larger Iowa program to become the new Reach Out and Read Midwest affiliate. The goal is to reach more than 360,000 children under the age of 5 across both states by 2030.This past year, Nebraska and Iowa served about 120,000 kids through Reach Out and Read, a spokeswoman for the organization said.The emphasis for the new Midwest affiliate is on children in low-income households and children of color.Already the organization offers books in 28 different languages.Parents exposed to the program are more likely to read with their children daily, according&nbsp;<a href="https://reachoutandread.org/why-we-matter/the-evidence/" target="_blank">to the program’s research</a>. And those children demonstrate improvements in language development. The nonprofit says books are beneficial even for families that do not read.Funding comes from a variety of sources — Martinez said the organization is in the public budget of 26 cities and states across the country.In Nebraska, donors include Buffett Early Childhood Fund, Elevance, Janet Kahler, Lozier Foundation, Nomi Health, Better World Books and Nebraska Children and Families Foundation/Nebraska Growing Readers Initiative.<h2>Urban and rural stretch</h2>While the bulk of Nebraska sites are in the urban centers of Omaha and Lincoln, Martinez said the goal is to reach more into rural areas as well. More staff is to be hired.“The program paves the way for all children, regardless of background, to develop foundational literacy skills and strengthen the essential relationships needed for a successful future,” said Kristin Christensen, the newly hired Midwest program manager.Martinez went to South Omaha’s Spring Lake Elementary School before graduating from Ralston High School, Nebraska Wesleyan University and Tufts University in Massachusetts, where he obtained a master’s degree in urban and social policy.Having many siblings and cousins still in Nebraska, Martinez, 47, and his husband and son visit often.Reach Out and Read has been thriving in some of the biggest clinics and places in the country, Martinez said, and he would like to see more impact in his home state.“We’re really excited to move it forward,” he said. “There is so much room to grow.”

National child literacy group aims for big NE growth and leading the charge is a Husker native

OMAHA, NE,&nbsp;(November 25, 2024) —&nbsp;AAA is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving holiday weekend, expecting to respond to more than 570,000 calls from drivers with car trouble. Beginning on Wednesday, The Auto Club Group will also launch its free ‘Tow to Go’ service, which is aimed at preventing impaired driving.

The program is available in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles. AAA requests that the program be used as a last resort, yet it is free to those who need it.

Nationwide, AAA expects Thanksgiving travel to set new records with&nbsp;an estimated 71.7 million Americans forecast to take a road trip. Combining cocktails with crowded roads can be deadly. During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from 2017-2021, more than 830 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver (<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2xHXBrRvv4XpZ1jGFgLGTb70U9ymCtJdBXWZiX9AYPAgPl2Hj7L5TBFIATYyry7KQBx0hnmil5AGxAMVp7CXf5BW6Ig-2B-2FvrGSx-2FJz-2FFSLwXaxiq_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86AN0MZLmgSAtjeF7LyC0MIyU8kVtbY5Zx4lJ9kiJFRXIkxXLv3R9I0oAcqpQBayMh86EB21bFpzv4lwIl0I4Aazd4dHN-2FEoHxzBCT7jCYcR10cV8YWV6E5PU9rfNXqD3SFiDGOQZ462U76-2BQ3AwxSeOmvJOk86S18ow4ej4co2spT3HqtKwyiEqhQB1164bslhOu9WLCqfy7zRNUjWYYA0aL36VHehBKRMXUXHNZbEjCWk-3D">NHTSA</a>).

“Tow to Go serves as that last line of defense in keeping impaired drivers off the road,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs this weekend, make plans for a safe ride home first. If your plans fall through, you can call AAA, and we’ll get you to a safe place.”

The Auto Club Group has provided the&nbsp;Tow to Go&nbsp;program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.

Florida, Georgia,&nbsp;Iowa,&nbsp;Michigan, North Dakota,&nbsp;Nebraska,&nbsp;Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732552897734.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>AAAOMAHA, NE,&nbsp;(November 25, 2024) —&nbsp;AAA is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving holiday weekend, expecting to respond to more than 570,000 calls from drivers with car trouble. Beginning on Wednesday, The Auto Club Group will also launch its free ‘Tow to Go’ service, which is aimed at preventing impaired driving.The program is available in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles. AAA requests that the program be used as a last resort, yet it is free to those who need it.<ul>
 <li>Tow to Go is active from&nbsp;6 p.m. Wednesday, November 27th&nbsp;to 6 a.m. Monday, December 2nd.</li><li>Available in FL, GA,&nbsp;IA, MI, ND,&nbsp;NE, TN, WI, CO (Denver), NC (Charlotte), IN (Fort Wayne/South Bend).</li>
 </ul>Nationwide, AAA expects Thanksgiving travel to set new records with&nbsp;an estimated 71.7 million Americans forecast to take a road trip. Combining cocktails with crowded roads can be deadly. During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from 2017-2021, more than 830 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver (<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2xHXBrRvv4XpZ1jGFgLGTb70U9ymCtJdBXWZiX9AYPAgPl2Hj7L5TBFIATYyry7KQBx0hnmil5AGxAMVp7CXf5BW6Ig-2B-2FvrGSx-2FJz-2FFSLwXaxiq_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEu9ForkbU2BMNTBWH3XP7OdT44Bbe46bKr8Wrm-2FRs-2FzyNpAOGWBtNKBasrXMt86AN0MZLmgSAtjeF7LyC0MIyU8kVtbY5Zx4lJ9kiJFRXIkxXLv3R9I0oAcqpQBayMh86EB21bFpzv4lwIl0I4Aazd4dHN-2FEoHxzBCT7jCYcR10cV8YWV6E5PU9rfNXqD3SFiDGOQZ462U76-2BQ3AwxSeOmvJOk86S18ow4ej4co2spT3HqtKwyiEqhQB1164bslhOu9WLCqfy7zRNUjWYYA0aL36VHehBKRMXUXHNZbEjCWk-3D">NHTSA</a>).“Tow to Go serves as that last line of defense in keeping impaired drivers off the road,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs this weekend, make plans for a safe ride home first. If your plans fall through, you can call AAA, and we’ll get you to a safe place.”The Auto Club Group has provided the&nbsp;Tow to Go&nbsp;program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.Service AreaFlorida, Georgia,&nbsp;Iowa,&nbsp;Michigan, North Dakota,&nbsp;Nebraska,&nbsp;Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)Phone Number(855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246Guidelines<ul>
 <li>Free and&nbsp;available to AAA members and non-members.</li><li>Confidential local ride for&nbsp;one person and their vehicle&nbsp;to a safe location&nbsp;within a 10-mile radius.</li><li>Appointments&nbsp;cannot&nbsp;be scheduled in advance. Tow to Go is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.</li><li>In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.</li><li>Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.</li>
 </ul>

AAA Activates 'Tow to Go' for Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend

November is Native American Heritage Month. We need only look to our own State Capitol to see the enormous influence of indigenous people on our state. From the external door to the tapestries, sculptures, and mosaics within, the Warner Chamber in particular, pays homage to those who first lived on the prairie.

Early in my administration, I took part in the Nebraska Tribal Transportation Conference. It was an honor to be there as Governor, and to sit and talk with leadership representing our current tribes. One of the people I met was Alonzo Denney of the Santee Sioux Nation and what he told me at that meeting was so profound, it continues to inspire me to this day.

Alonzo’s grandfather taught him that when weighing a critical decision, it’s important to consider the impact for seven generations. Just imagine, the force of what we do today has the momentum to affect our kids, their kids and so on. It’s a simple principle – one that has completely changed how I think. To secure our future, we must take the long view and give thought to what our decisions will mean long after we are gone.

And so, for Native American Heritage Month, I thank Alonzo for his story and for his grandfather’s powerful wisdom. I hope his is a lesson we all take to heart.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732544814492.jpeg" alt="Gov. Pillen &amp; Alonzo Denney (Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Pillen &amp; Alonzo Denney (Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Jim PillenNovember is Native American Heritage Month. We need only look to our own State Capitol to see the enormous influence of indigenous people on our state. From the external door to the tapestries, sculptures, and mosaics within, the Warner Chamber in particular, pays homage to those who first lived on the prairie.Early in my administration, I took part in the Nebraska Tribal Transportation Conference. It was an honor to be there as Governor, and to sit and talk with leadership representing our current tribes. One of the people I met was Alonzo Denney of the Santee Sioux Nation and what he told me at that meeting was so profound, it continues to inspire me to this day.Alonzo’s grandfather taught him that when weighing a critical decision, it’s important to consider the impact for seven generations. Just imagine, the force of what we do today has the momentum to affect our kids, their kids and so on. It’s a simple principle – one that has completely changed how I think. To secure our future, we must take the long view and give thought to what our decisions will mean long after we are gone.And so, for Native American Heritage Month, I thank Alonzo for his story and for his grandfather’s powerful wisdom. I hope his is a lesson we all take to heart. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732544854966.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Powerful Wisdom & Native American Heritage Month

<a>(Lincoln, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>—&nbsp; The holiday season is in full force.&nbsp;The Nebraska State Patrol is kicking off the holiday travel season with the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;statewide campaign.

“With Thanksgiving comes travel from all corners of the state. Our goal is to make sure no one is missing from your table due to a fatal crash that could’ve been prevented by using a seat belt or child safety restraint,” said Colonel John Bolduc, “We want everyone to make it to their holiday gatherings as safely as possible.”

Troopers will be partnering with local law enforcement agencies across the state for the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;effort. The campaign begins Saturday, November 23, and will run through Sunday, December 1, covering the week of Thanksgiving.

Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols across the state to reduce fatal and serious crashes in Nebraska. During traffic stops, troopers will be looking for seat belt and child passenger restraint violations. Troopers will also be thanking motorists who are already wearing their seat belts.

Troopers and NSP dispatchers will be working overtime to provide additional coverage during the holiday. NSP’s portion of this campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. NSP encourages any motorist who observes a dangerous driver can report it to the NSP Highway Helpline by calling *55.

Mikayla HallNebraska State Patrol<a>(Lincoln, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>—&nbsp; The holiday season is in full force.&nbsp;The Nebraska State Patrol is kicking off the holiday travel season with the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;statewide campaign.“With Thanksgiving comes travel from all corners of the state. Our goal is to make sure no one is missing from your table due to a fatal crash that could’ve been prevented by using a seat belt or child safety restraint,” said Colonel John Bolduc, “We want everyone to make it to their holiday gatherings as safely as possible.”Troopers will be partnering with local law enforcement agencies across the state for the&nbsp;Make It Click&nbsp;effort. The campaign begins Saturday, November 23, and will run through Sunday, December 1, covering the week of Thanksgiving.Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols across the state to reduce fatal and serious crashes in Nebraska. During traffic stops, troopers will be looking for seat belt and child passenger restraint violations. Troopers will also be thanking motorists who are already wearing their seat belts.Troopers and NSP dispatchers will be working overtime to provide additional coverage during the holiday. NSP’s portion of this campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. NSP encourages any motorist who observes a dangerous driver can report it to the NSP Highway Helpline by calling *55.

NSP Launches Make It Click Campaign Ahead of Thanksgiving

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/sofia-resnick/">SOFIA RESNICK</a>

The 2024 election results created complicated new realities for reproductive rights in the U.S., with Americans even in a few red states overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/voters-seven-states-restore-reproductive-rights" target="_blank">voting to protect</a>&nbsp;the right to have an abortion while also overwhelmingly electing anti-abortion representatives in state houses, courts, Congress and the White House.

With a Republican trifecta coming to the nation’s capital in January, anti-abortion activist groups are planning for the first potentially friendly presidential administration since the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated a 50-year federal right to terminate a pregnancy.

They aim to end other federal and state protections while vastly expanding restrictions on reproductive health care.

Though many anti-abortion leaders are skeptical of President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to their cause, they say they are willing to compromise to maintain influence in his administration. Some groups are strategizing how to end-run Trump’s campaign pledge not to enact any federal abortion bans — by heavily restricting medication abortion or trying to ban a common abortion procedure.

“I don’t think we have a champion here for pro-life causes,” said the Rev. Patrick Mahoney, longtime anti-abortion organizer. “What we have here is someone who will not work against us and try to crush us. We will not see pro-choice federal judges.”

Mahoney, director of the Christian Defense Coalition and the chief strategy officer of Stanton Public Policy Center, told States Newsroom that he is not a supporter of Trump and disagrees with his rhetoric on immigrants.

But he is happy Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris lost. The vice president had vowed to try to restore federal abortion rights and throughout her career has advocated for reproductive rights. As California attorney general, she&nbsp;<a href="https://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-attorney-general-seizes-planned-parenthood-videos-20160405-story.html" target="_blank">prosecuted anti-abortion activists</a>&nbsp;charged with illegally recording abortion providers about a decade ago.

“We can have an opportunity now to begin the second phase after Roe was overturned,” Mahoney said. “We knew overturning Roe was only a starting line, not a finishing line.”

Lila Rose, president of Live Action, was one of the few prominent anti-abortion leaders who called out Trump before the election, after he criticized Florida’s six-week abortion ban and vowed to veto a federal ban. In late August, Rose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/08/29/lila-rose-abortion-trump-interview-00176619" target="_blank">told Politico</a>&nbsp;she would write in a presidential candidate and would encourage her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncregister.com/interview/fighting-for-life-lila-rose-s-mission-to-save-the-unborn" target="_blank">millions of followers</a>&nbsp;to do the same if Trump did not change course.

On her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSgwXPGviUA" target="_blank">podcast</a>, the millennial activist recently revealed that she met with Trump and asked him to say he would vote against Florida’s abortion-rights amendment, which he did. Days before the election, Rose&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LilaGraceRose/status/1852731859815542991" target="_blank">endorsed Trump on X</a>.

Live Action did not respond to an interview request.

Nationally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/voters-seven-states-restore-reproductive-rights" target="_blank">three out of 10 abortion-rights measures</a>&nbsp;failed: Florida’s proposed amendment had the highest threshold to clear, but got 57% out of the required 60% of the vote. It would have reversed the ban that reproductive rights advocates say has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/reproductive-health-care-southeast-hinges-florida-abortion-rights-ballot-measure-doctors" target="_blank">decimated abortion access in the Southeast</a>.

Another anti-abortion leader willing to compromise with the incoming president and Congress is Steven Aden, general counsel at Americans United for Life, the policy shop behind many state and federal abortion restrictions. Aden said he was disappointed the Republican Party removed from its platform a&nbsp;<a href="https://prod-cdn-static.gop.com/media/documents/DRAFT_12_FINAL%5B1%5D-ben_1468872234.pdf" target="_blank">previous commitment</a>&nbsp;to a federal ban.

However, he said his group was still able to inject critical language into the&nbsp;<a href="https://cdn.nucleusfiles.com/be/beb1a388-1d88-4389-a67d-c1e2d7f8bedf/2024-gop-platform-july-7-final.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=ncl_amplify&amp;utm_campaign=240708-2024_gop_platform_make_america_great_again&amp;utm_content=ncl-4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nlid=4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nhids=g95bUYd" target="_blank">current platform</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rnc-approves-platform-would-give-rights-fetuses-endangering-abortion-ivf" target="_blank">effectively supports states establishing fetal personhood</a>&nbsp;through the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which grants equal protection under the law. The platform also says Republicans “will oppose Late Term Abortion,” a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/political-rhetoric-about-third-trimester-abortion-misleading-experts-say" target="_blank">political term</a>&nbsp;used to refer to abortions in the second and third trimesters, the rarest but most restricted types of abortions in the U.S.

“We had direct input into the Trump campaign and framing the pro-life language in the party platform,” Aden told States Newsroom. “The platform language was much pared down, but we believe that the pro-life language preserves the essence of the party’s position on the pro-life issue, and we’re proud of that, and look forward to continuing to work with the incoming Trump administration.”

Federal reproductive rights protections in question

Early into his term, Democratic President Joe Biden began reversing blocks on federal funding domestically and globally for reproductive health organizations that also provide or refer for abortions. Leading up to and following the Dobbs decision, the Biden administration loosened restrictions to the medication abortion regimen, a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol, which has become the most common way of terminating pregnancy in the U.S. during the first trimester.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration allowed abortion medication to be obtained via telemedicine and dispensed directly at pharmacies.

Nearly half the country has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/see-data-reproductive-rights" target="_blank">partially or fully banned abortions</a>. But abortion numbers have risen since before Dobbs, researchers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/03/despite-bans-number-abortions-united-states-increased-2023#:~:text=New%20findings%20from%20the%20Monthly,Organization%20overturned%20Roe%20v.%20Wade." target="_blank">have reported</a>, attributing the increase in part to expanded access to telemedicine abortion and to more people using online abortion clinics that mail abortion drugs from states with so-called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/telehealth-abortion-still-rise-especially-states-shield-laws-report-shows" target="_blank">shield laws</a>&nbsp;to those with bans.

Anti-abortion groups&nbsp;<a href="https://sbaprolife.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/win-memo.pdf" target="_blank">Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.studentsforlifeaction.org/roadmap/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Time%20for%20a%20Pro-Life%20New%20Deal%20%F0%9F%A4%9D&amp;utm_campaign=PLG%3A%202024%20Primary%20Wins%3A%20KJH%20Op-Ed%20Email%20%28Nov%20%20%2024%29#form" target="_blank">Students for Life of America</a>&nbsp;recently unveiled memos asking the Trump administration to pull&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/health-experts-outline-how-trump-administration-could-affect-abortion-contraception-access" target="_blank">regulatory levers</a>&nbsp;that especially target abortion drugs.

Under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, regulations could include:

When asked about stories of alleged&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/women-serious-pregnancy-complications-sue-over-state-abortion-bans-2" target="_blank">denied care</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/texas-woman-died-after-hospital-said-it-would-be-crime-intervene-her-miscarriage" target="_blank">maternal deaths</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/texas-ob-gyns-urge-lawmakers-change-abortion-laws-after-reports-pregnant-womens-deaths" target="_blank">doctor confusion</a>&nbsp;related to state abortion bans, Aden chalked up the problem to a misinterpretation of state laws, which he said should be clarified to address these problems, while noting several times, “I’m not a doctor.” Americans United for Life’s&nbsp;<a href="https://aul.org/2022/11/09/introducing-the-abortion-abolition-amendment/" target="_blank">recommended health-exception language</a>&nbsp;in part says abortion should be allowed “to preserve the life of a pregnant woman or to address a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.”

“That’s a health exception with teeth,” Aden said. “It doesn’t allow for a free-ranging, quote unquote, ‘mental health’ exception that would swallow the rule.”

Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-picks-dr-oz-run-mammoth-centers-medicare-and-medicaid-services" target="_blank">pick to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services</a>, which manages the country’s largest health programs, is Dr. Mehmet Oz, who&nbsp;<a href="https://19thnews.org/2024/11/trump-picks-dr-oz-celebrity-tv-doctor-medicare-medicaid/" target="_blank">opposes abortion</a>.

The U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs could:

The U.S. Agency for International Development could:

As they brace for the potential impact of Dobbs without a federal safety net, reproductive justice activists are working to expand access and fight anti-abortion laws, while also protecting new state wins. The election results did not change the fact that most people want abortion access, said Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center, during a recent media press briefing organized by the progressive Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

“Donald Trump won the election, but so did abortion, and people need to hold this incoming administration to its word that it would not restrict abortion,” Graves said. “We have to square the idea that millions of people in the United States voted for reproductive freedom … but they also will be experiencing a situation that will become even more dire, and that people will feel scared and hopeless in this period.”

Aden said AUL would support a federal “dismemberment” bill, referring to a proposed ban on a common second-trimester abortion procedure known as&nbsp;<a href="https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.dilation-and-evacuation-d-e.tw2462" target="_blank">dilation and evacuation</a>, or D&amp;E. This procedure involves dilating the cervix and removing the contents of the uterus, typically performed beginning around 12 weeks. It would be a way to effectively get a 12- or 15-week ban without calling it that.

Despite its safety and efficacy record, the D&amp;E procedure has been banned in several states, over the objection of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/ban-standard-de-abortion-procedure-unsafe-unwarranted" target="_blank">American Medical Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists</a>. It’s part of an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/political-rhetoric-about-third-trimester-abortion-misleading-experts-say" target="_blank">old anti-abortion playbook</a>, which under Republican President George W. Bush resulted in a federal ban on another later abortion procedure — dilation and extraction, or D&amp;X — by reframing it as “partial-birth” abortion, which the U.S. Supreme Court upheld in 2007’s Gonzales v. Carhart decision.

Abortion foes describe D&amp;Es as a gruesome procedure, or as Aden puts it, “tearing 13-week-old humans apart limb from limb.” Anti-abortion doctors&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/anti-abortion-researchers-back-riskier-procedures-when-pregnancy-termination-needed-experts" target="_blank">recommend more risky and invasive</a>&nbsp;procedures like C-sections, even when the abortion is medically indicated.

If D&amp;Es are banned, there would be fewer options for later abortions, which are sometimes necessary, said reproductive-health legal expert Rachel Rebouché, dean of Temple University School of Law in Philadelphia. She noted that some of the U.S. Supreme Court justices have indicated support for abortion restrictions for reasons of preserving fetal dignity rather than preserving maternal health.

“That litigation, from the anti-abortion perspective, depends on saying the fetus is a person with rights that attach at a certain point, if not from conception,” Rebouché told States Newsroom. “Dobbs opens the door wide open for those kinds of regulations. … But the question is, is there a role for the federal government to enact a nationwide ban that would curtail the rights of states that have not gone the way of Idaho or Texas or others?”

Aden said that for now AUL will be more focused on the incremental approach to abortion restrictions, as well as calling for expanded child and prenatal tax credits and other social supports.

The attorney, who was 11 when Roe was decided in 1973, is expecting another half-century of litigation over abortion with the hopes that one day the U.S. Constitution gives personhood rights to the unborn, regardless of the stage of that pregnancy. Aden said a so-called Human Life Amendment is likely impossible in the near term, needing approval from two-thirds of both houses of Congress. He said U.S. culture is not there yet.

“It would require a cultural sea change in the way that the majority of Americans view human life in the womb,” Aden said. “That’s our second generational goal. Having won our first generational goal of overturning Roe, we’d love to see the day when every life is welcomed and protected in law. And if that’s through a constitutional amendment, then we’re here for that.”

Abortion foes strategize to get Trump to ban some abortions while keeping his pledge

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

WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The 2025-26 form to apply for federal student aid is now available to all students and families, the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;said Thursday.

The department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-department-education-begins-testing-new-fafsa-form" target="_blank">used a staggered approach</a>&nbsp;to launch the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — to address any issues before the form became available to everyone at a later date.

Though the department beat its Dec. 1 full launch deadline by 10 days, the form is fully available roughly two months later than the typical Oct. 1 date.

The department gradually ramped up the number of people able to complete the form since early October through four testing rounds that have featured more than 167,000 FAFSA submissions.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-bill-move-annual-fafsa-release-deadline" target="_blank">a bill to ensure the federal student aid form</a>&nbsp;is available by Oct. 1 annually has passed both the House and Senate with sweeping bipartisan support. It’s now up to President Joe Biden to sign the measure into law.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the bill.

Senior department officials said they do not have a position on the legislation but reiterated that they are on track to launch the 2026-27 FAFSA by Oct. 1, 2025.

The decision for a phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form — which got a makeover after Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act in December 2020 — witnessed its fair share of glitches and errors, which prompted processing delays and left students and families feeling frustrated and confused.

The department worked to fix these errors as well as issues that prevented parents without Social Security numbers from completing the form.

“We recognize that the FAFSA challenge required an overhaul at the (Office of) Federal Student Aid, so we got to work,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters Thursday.

“We made key changes at FSA, including better accountability and an increase in outside technical expertise — we held listening sessions, engaging 300 organizations, and we incorporated the feedback from our students, from parents, schools, software vendors, state agencies and other partners,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727807641728.png" alt=" A sign reminding people to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — appears on a bus near Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption> A sign reminding people to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — appears on a bus near Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON —&nbsp; The 2025-26 form to apply for federal student aid is now available to all students and families, the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;said Thursday.The department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-department-education-begins-testing-new-fafsa-form" target="_blank">used a staggered approach</a>&nbsp;to launch the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid — better known as FAFSA — to address any issues before the form became available to everyone at a later date.Though the department beat its Dec. 1 full launch deadline by 10 days, the form is fully available roughly two months later than the typical Oct. 1 date.The department gradually ramped up the number of people able to complete the form since early October through four testing rounds that have featured more than 167,000 FAFSA submissions.Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-passes-bill-move-annual-fafsa-release-deadline" target="_blank">a bill to ensure the federal student aid form</a>&nbsp;is available by Oct. 1 annually has passed both the House and Senate with sweeping bipartisan support. It’s now up to President Joe Biden to sign the measure into law.The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the bill.Senior department officials said they do not have a position on the legislation but reiterated that they are on track to launch the 2026-27 FAFSA by Oct. 1, 2025.<h2>2024-25 FAFSA mishaps</h2>The decision for a phased rollout came after the 2024-25 form — which got a makeover after Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act in December 2020 — witnessed its fair share of glitches and errors, which prompted processing delays and left students and families feeling frustrated and confused.The department worked to fix these errors as well as issues that prevented parents without Social Security numbers from completing the form.“We recognize that the FAFSA challenge required an overhaul at the (Office of) Federal Student Aid, so we got to work,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters Thursday.“We made key changes at FSA, including better accountability and an increase in outside technical expertise — we held listening sessions, engaging 300 organizations, and we incorporated the feedback from our students, from parents, schools, software vendors, state agencies and other partners,” he said.

Feds roll out 2025-26 college financial aid form ahead of planned date

&nbsp; 2024 has been a contentious year in Washington, with its fair share of fights and drama. And while those fights get media attention, there are plenty of positive stories that don’t make headlines.

I’d like to share some of those stories with you as we head into the Thanksgiving season, because this year, I’m most thankful for the opportunity to help Nebraskans, whether through casework or legislation.

Each year, my staff speaks with hundreds of Nebraskans facing roadblocks in the federal government. Our office does everything we can to solve problems, and I have wonderful staff who help me get things done for my fellow citizens.

For example, a veteran we will call John reached out to my office this year. John was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, but he was still struggling to get his claim processed with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). John asked if we could help.

My staff worked with a county veteran service officer and a VA office to find out why John’s claim wasn’t being processed. Our inquiry highlighted the urgency of John’s case, causing them to expedite John’s exam so he and his family could receive the benefits they needed. After our inquiry, John and his family received almost $70,000 in backpay, along with several other veteran benefits. Now, John has the benefits he earned through his years of serving our country.

But it isn’t just individual Nebraskans who need assistance with the federal government. This year, my office helped Nebraska’s Winnebago Tribe reclaim 1,600 acres of land that was wrongfully taken from them.

In 1970, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers unlawfully condemned land belonging to the Winnebago Tribe. For 50 years, the Tribe has gone to the courts to try and restore the land to their reservation. Last year, members of the Winnebago Tribe contacted my office. While no one opposed the Tribe reclaiming their land, they needed action on the federal level to officially restore it. I introduced the Winnebago Land Transfer Act last November to make that happen, and this June, the Senate unanimously passed my bill. In July, the president signed the legislation into law, righting a decades-old wrong for the Winnebago Tribe.

The residents of Swanson and Red Willow Reservoir communities have also faced problems with federal control of land.

Currently, Nebraskans living in these communities are in danger of losing their homes as a result of land restrictions. But after working with them for several years, my office—along with the rest of our federal delegation—has introduced legislation to return control of this land to the county level. I’ve heard from over 1,000 Nebraskans on this issue, and I’m urging my colleagues in Congress to support it.

I’m optimistic that our bill will pass, especially because a Senate committee unanimously approved it just this week.

This year, I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities in Nebraska. It’s not something I take for granted, and I’m honored by the opportunity to keep doing this work for another six years.

I wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. May you be reminded of the many blessings in your lives, and may you enjoy a special day surrounded by loved ones.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; 2024 has been a contentious year in Washington, with its fair share of fights and drama. And while those fights get media attention, there are plenty of positive stories that don’t make headlines.I’d like to share some of those stories with you as we head into the Thanksgiving season, because this year, I’m most thankful for the opportunity to help Nebraskans, whether through casework or legislation.Each year, my staff speaks with hundreds of Nebraskans facing roadblocks in the federal government. Our office does everything we can to solve problems, and I have wonderful staff who help me get things done for my fellow citizens.For example, a veteran we will call John reached out to my office this year. John was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, but he was still struggling to get his claim processed with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). John asked if we could help.My staff worked with a county veteran service officer and a VA office to find out why John’s claim wasn’t being processed. Our inquiry highlighted the urgency of John’s case, causing them to expedite John’s exam so he and his family could receive the benefits they needed. After our inquiry, John and his family received almost $70,000 in backpay, along with several other veteran benefits. Now, John has the benefits he earned through his years of serving our country.But it isn’t just individual Nebraskans who need assistance with the federal government. This year, my office helped Nebraska’s Winnebago Tribe reclaim 1,600 acres of land that was wrongfully taken from them.In 1970, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers unlawfully condemned land belonging to the Winnebago Tribe. For 50 years, the Tribe has gone to the courts to try and restore the land to their reservation. Last year, members of the Winnebago Tribe contacted my office. While no one opposed the Tribe reclaiming their land, they needed action on the federal level to officially restore it. I introduced the Winnebago Land Transfer Act last November to make that happen, and this June, the Senate unanimously passed my bill. In July, the president signed the legislation into law, righting a decades-old wrong for the Winnebago Tribe.The residents of Swanson and Red Willow Reservoir communities have also faced problems with federal control of land.Currently, Nebraskans living in these communities are in danger of losing their homes as a result of land restrictions. But after working with them for several years, my office—along with the rest of our federal delegation—has introduced legislation to return control of this land to the county level. I’ve heard from over 1,000 Nebraskans on this issue, and I’m urging my colleagues in Congress to support it.I’m optimistic that our bill will pass, especially because a Senate committee unanimously approved it just this week.This year, I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities in Nebraska. It’s not something I take for granted, and I’m honored by the opportunity to keep doing this work for another six years.I wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. May you be reminded of the many blessings in your lives, and may you enjoy a special day surrounded by loved ones.Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer Weekly Column: What I’m Thankful For

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/21/gov-pillen-recruits-retired-ne-national-guard-boss-to-take-over-embattled-state-historical-society/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen has called upon Daryl Bohac to direct the embattled Nebraska State Historical Society, drawing Bohac back into public service after he retired 18 months ago from leading the Nebraska National Guard.

Pillen said the decision to recruit and redeploy Bohac to fill a post that oversees collection, preservation and sharing of Nebraska history was based on his view of leadership.

“When you spend 45 years of your life in public service, when you’re the adjutant general of the Nebraska Air and Army National Guard, you develop extraordinary leadership characteristics and qualities,” he said of the Nebraska native.

Pillen said he needed someone to steer the&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">146-year-old historical agency</a>&nbsp;he said had veered “off the tracks.”

Renamed History Nebraska by the previous director, the agency has been<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/bill-to-move-history-nebraska-under-governors-office-is-prioritized-and-advanced/">&nbsp;scrutinized and restructured</a>. It recently became part of the governor’s cabinet following the arrest two years ago of the former executive director, who faces theft charges for allegedly improperly handling a private donation to the state agency.

Bohac will oversee more than 60 full-time employees, and start with a $175,000 salary.

Questioned about Bohac’s qualifications for the history-centric job, Pillen cited his track record in creating a “culture of team.”&nbsp;

During the past two years, turnover at the society was 22% and 31%, respectively, among the highest of state agencies, according to state personnel figures.

More than once, Pillen mentioned Bohac’s work with the Nebraska National Guard Museum in Seward, which preserves state militia history and educates about the guard’s role during peace and war.

Introduced in his new role at a Thursday news conference, Bohac said he had received a phone call from someone outside of the Governor’s Office inquiring about his interest in taking over the agency, which also publishes a quarterly magazine and operates a state history museum in Lincoln and six other historic sites across the state.

He said he talked to his wife and others and felt it was a “good fit — perhaps a good opportunity in that I could bring some leadership values to a complex organization.”

He said the past 18 months of retirement had been good for him and his family. “But it’s time to go back to work for the people of Nebraska.”

Among top priorities, Bohac said, is improving financial accountability. He referred to the past executive director.

Former director Trevor Jones is facing felony charges for allegedly misappropriating a private donation. He resigned in 2022, after serving six years as the top administrator,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/trevor-jones-head-of-history-nebraska-for-the-past-six-years-to-resign-july-1/">saying he planned to do some traveling</a>.

Shortly after Jones resigned, he was charged with theft by deception in connection with diverting two donations from a foundation that had been intended to over anticipated agency revenue losses due to COVID-19. He instead&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/08/15/former-head-of-history-nebraska-might-have-violated-state-law-state-auditors-probe-says/">deposited the funds in a foundation</a>&nbsp;he had set up.&nbsp;

Jones recently asked the court to dismiss the felony charge, saying he has been denied his right to a speedy trial. A hearing on the motion is scheduled for Tuesday.

“It takes a lifetime of having a culture and it got tore down in a few simple years and it’s gonna take a lot of work to rebuild it to what Nebraskans expect.”

The governor said he expects Bohac to lessen the society’s reliance on taxpayer dollars and to build active public and private partnerships.

“It’s a $9 million a year budget but it doesn’t necessarily have to stand on the backs of taxpayers,” Pillen said.

Bohac said he is excited to dive into his new mission — noting what he described as one of the first decisions presented to him in 2013 when he became the state’s adjutant general. It had to do with relocation of the military museum from the old Nebraska State Fairgrounds.&nbsp;

He said the operations model relied on a combination of private, state and federal funding, a mix he plans to build upon at the state historical society.

Other priorities in his new post, Bohac told reporters, include rebuilding core history museum exhibits to create a more alluring place for tourists and Nebraskans. He also wants to improve public access to archives.

Bohac’s hire follows the passage earlier this year of Legislative Bill 1169, which made the historical society a code agency and part of the governor’s cabinet. That shift from independence status, and governance by a citizen Board of Trustees, worried many society employees who feared politics might enter into decisions about subject matter in museum displays, research projects and magazine articles.

State lawmakers who supported LB 1169 said it should increase financial oversight and restore trust in the agency. Others feared potential impact.&nbsp;

He has managed to adeptly thread the needle of keeping focused on mission and setting aside politics.

– State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln

State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln put forth an amendment&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/history-nebraska-bill-to-shift-agency-control-to-governor-is-amended-to-guard-academic-freedom/">intended to protect the</a>&nbsp;academic freedom of choosing museum displays and public outreach.

Thursday, upon hearing of Bohac’s appointment, Conrad she welcomed the “sound” choice.

She sees Bohac as an “adept leader” and a “nonpolitical person.”

“He has managed to adeptly thread the needle of keeping focused on mission and setting aside politics,” she said.

Conrad, a Democrat, said she believes Bohac will be supported across the political spectrum to “stabilize the important work of this agency which has been mired in controversy for far too long.”

Founded in 1878 by people who saw a need to record stories of both the state’s indigenous and immigrant populations, the historical society was designated a state institution and began receiving funds from the Legislature in 1883.&nbsp;

In July, Pillen appointed<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/16/new-interim-director-of-troubled-state-history-agency-making-changes-facing-some-pushback/">&nbsp;Cindy Drake to be interim executive</a>&nbsp;director. She had been at odds with the policies of the former director, Jones, and was dismissed after 45 years of serving as chief librarian at the society.

Drake and Pillen moved swiftly to make changes at the agency, restoring the name to the Nebraska State Historical Society, rescinding a Jones’ decision to rebrand as “History Nebraska” in 2018.

Employees also were reassigned. Public visiting hours were to be added at the society’s research room.

A diversity council established by Jones was disbanded.

During the media event Thursday, Bohac said he was eager to jump into his new job.

As adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Bohac was responsible for programs affecting more than 4,500 Army and Air National Guard personnel. He oversaw the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and&nbsp; served as the state’s official channel of communication with the National Guard Bureau to the Departments of the Army and Air Force.

Said Pillen: “The hardcore reality is Daryl and I see a lot of things alike. One is how important leadership is, how important culture

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732295527785.jpeg" alt="Daryl Bohac, former adjutant general for Nebraska, takes the podium with Gov. Jim Pillen, right, after being appointed director of the Nebraska State Historical Society. Nov. 21, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Daryl Bohac, former adjutant general for Nebraska, takes the podium with Gov. Jim Pillen, right, after being appointed director of the Nebraska State Historical Society. Nov. 21, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/21/gov-pillen-recruits-retired-ne-national-guard-boss-to-take-over-embattled-state-historical-society/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen has called upon Daryl Bohac to direct the embattled Nebraska State Historical Society, drawing Bohac back into public service after he retired 18 months ago from leading the Nebraska National Guard.Pillen said the decision to recruit and redeploy Bohac to fill a post that oversees collection, preservation and sharing of Nebraska history was based on his view of leadership.“When you spend 45 years of your life in public service, when you’re the adjutant general of the Nebraska Air and Army National Guard, you develop extraordinary leadership characteristics and qualities,” he said of the Nebraska native.Pillen said he needed someone to steer the&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">146-year-old historical agency</a>&nbsp;he said had veered “off the tracks.”<h2>Scrutinized, restructured</h2>Renamed History Nebraska by the previous director, the agency has been<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/bill-to-move-history-nebraska-under-governors-office-is-prioritized-and-advanced/">&nbsp;scrutinized and restructured</a>. It recently became part of the governor’s cabinet following the arrest two years ago of the former executive director, who faces theft charges for allegedly improperly handling a private donation to the state agency.Bohac will oversee more than 60 full-time employees, and start with a $175,000 salary.Questioned about Bohac’s qualifications for the history-centric job, Pillen cited his track record in creating a “culture of team.”&nbsp;During the past two years, turnover at the society was 22% and 31%, respectively, among the highest of state agencies, according to state personnel figures.More than once, Pillen mentioned Bohac’s work with the Nebraska National Guard Museum in Seward, which preserves state militia history and educates about the guard’s role during peace and war.Introduced in his new role at a Thursday news conference, Bohac said he had received a phone call from someone outside of the Governor’s Office inquiring about his interest in taking over the agency, which also publishes a quarterly magazine and operates a state history museum in Lincoln and six other historic sites across the state.He said he talked to his wife and others and felt it was a “good fit — perhaps a good opportunity in that I could bring some leadership values to a complex organization.”He said the past 18 months of retirement had been good for him and his family. “But it’s time to go back to work for the people of Nebraska.”<h2>Bohac goals</h2>Among top priorities, Bohac said, is improving financial accountability. He referred to the past executive director.Former director Trevor Jones is facing felony charges for allegedly misappropriating a private donation. He resigned in 2022, after serving six years as the top administrator,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/trevor-jones-head-of-history-nebraska-for-the-past-six-years-to-resign-july-1/">saying he planned to do some traveling</a>.Shortly after Jones resigned, he was charged with theft by deception in connection with diverting two donations from a foundation that had been intended to over anticipated agency revenue losses due to COVID-19. He instead&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/08/15/former-head-of-history-nebraska-might-have-violated-state-law-state-auditors-probe-says/">deposited the funds in a foundation</a>&nbsp;he had set up.&nbsp;Jones recently asked the court to dismiss the felony charge, saying he has been denied his right to a speedy trial. A hearing on the motion is scheduled for Tuesday.Pillen also pointed to the past.&nbsp;“It takes a lifetime of having a culture and it got tore down in a few simple years and it’s gonna take a lot of work to rebuild it to what Nebraskans expect.”The governor said he expects Bohac to lessen the society’s reliance on taxpayer dollars and to build active public and private partnerships.“It’s a $9 million a year budget but it doesn’t necessarily have to stand on the backs of taxpayers,” Pillen said.Bohac said he is excited to dive into his new mission — noting what he described as one of the first decisions presented to him in 2013 when he became the state’s adjutant general. It had to do with relocation of the military museum from the old Nebraska State Fairgrounds.&nbsp;He said the operations model relied on a combination of private, state and federal funding, a mix he plans to build upon at the state historical society.Other priorities in his new post, Bohac told reporters, include rebuilding core history museum exhibits to create a more alluring place for tourists and Nebraskans. He also wants to improve public access to archives.<h2>‘Nonpolitical, adept’</h2>Bohac’s hire follows the passage earlier this year of Legislative Bill 1169, which made the historical society a code agency and part of the governor’s cabinet. That shift from independence status, and governance by a citizen Board of Trustees, worried many society employees who feared politics might enter into decisions about subject matter in museum displays, research projects and magazine articles.State lawmakers who supported LB 1169 said it should increase financial oversight and restore trust in the agency. Others feared potential impact.&nbsp;He has managed to adeptly thread the needle of keeping focused on mission and setting aside politics.– State Sen. Danielle Conrad of LincolnState Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln put forth an amendment&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/history-nebraska-bill-to-shift-agency-control-to-governor-is-amended-to-guard-academic-freedom/">intended to protect the</a>&nbsp;academic freedom of choosing museum displays and public outreach.Thursday, upon hearing of Bohac’s appointment, Conrad she welcomed the “sound” choice.She sees Bohac as an “adept leader” and a “nonpolitical person.”“He has managed to adeptly thread the needle of keeping focused on mission and setting aside politics,” she said.Conrad, a Democrat, said she believes Bohac will be supported across the political spectrum to “stabilize the important work of this agency which has been mired in controversy for far too long.”<h2>‘Hardcore reality’</h2>Founded in 1878 by people who saw a need to record stories of both the state’s indigenous and immigrant populations, the historical society was designated a state institution and began receiving funds from the Legislature in 1883.&nbsp;In July, Pillen appointed<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/09/16/new-interim-director-of-troubled-state-history-agency-making-changes-facing-some-pushback/">&nbsp;Cindy Drake to be interim executive</a>&nbsp;director. She had been at odds with the policies of the former director, Jones, and was dismissed after 45 years of serving as chief librarian at the society.Drake and Pillen moved swiftly to make changes at the agency, restoring the name to the Nebraska State Historical Society, rescinding a Jones’ decision to rebrand as “History Nebraska” in 2018.Employees also were reassigned. Public visiting hours were to be added at the society’s research room.A diversity council established by Jones was disbanded.During the media event Thursday, Bohac said he was eager to jump into his new job.As adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Bohac was responsible for programs affecting more than 4,500 Army and Air National Guard personnel. He oversaw the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and&nbsp; served as the state’s official channel of communication with the National Guard Bureau to the Departments of the Army and Air Force.Said Pillen: “The hardcore reality is Daryl and I see a lot of things alike. One is how important leadership is, how important culture

Gov. Pillen recruits retired NE National Guard boss to take over embattled state historical society

November 22, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Saturday will be a busy day for Husker fans with two big games in Lincoln. The Nebraska State Patrol urges fans to be safe throughout both the Husker football and volleyball games Saturday.

“Gameday means thousands of extra vehicles in and around Lincoln,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “With a double-header for Husker football and Husker volleyball, traffic will be heavier throughout the entire day. Fans should be patient, watch for pedestrians, and make sure you have a sober driver.”

On this busy gameday in Lincoln, troopers will be on patrol in the surrounding area and partnering with local agencies in many aspects of gameday operations. Troopers team up with the Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, UNL Police Department, and the Nebraska Department of Transportation to keep fans safe as they travel to and from the games, as well as in and around Memorial Stadium.

Troopers on patrol will be working to maintain safe travel on area roadways, with assistance from troopers in the NSP AirWing. Troopers will also escort the Husker football team from the team hotel to the stadium prior to the game and escort Coach Rhule on the field. Fans can hear radio traffic reports from Trooper Brett before and after the game on the Huskers Radio Network broadcasts.

“With a mid-afternoon football game and an evening volleyball match, there will be some overlap of traffic leaving the area after the football game and new traffic arriving before the volleyball match,” said Colonel Bolduc. “It’s critical for all fans to be mindful of pedestrian traffic and avoid distractions while driving.”

Anyone who observes a reckless driver or anyone in need of non-emergency roadside assistance can call *55 to reach the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline. NSP’s portion of this effort is made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolNovember 22, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Saturday will be a busy day for Husker fans with two big games in Lincoln. The Nebraska State Patrol urges fans to be safe throughout both the Husker football and volleyball games Saturday.“Gameday means thousands of extra vehicles in and around Lincoln,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “With a double-header for Husker football and Husker volleyball, traffic will be heavier throughout the entire day. Fans should be patient, watch for pedestrians, and make sure you have a sober driver.”On this busy gameday in Lincoln, troopers will be on patrol in the surrounding area and partnering with local agencies in many aspects of gameday operations. Troopers team up with the Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, UNL Police Department, and the Nebraska Department of Transportation to keep fans safe as they travel to and from the games, as well as in and around Memorial Stadium.Troopers on patrol will be working to maintain safe travel on area roadways, with assistance from troopers in the NSP AirWing. Troopers will also escort the Husker football team from the team hotel to the stadium prior to the game and escort Coach Rhule on the field. Fans can hear radio traffic reports from Trooper Brett before and after the game on the Huskers Radio Network broadcasts.“With a mid-afternoon football game and an evening volleyball match, there will be some overlap of traffic leaving the area after the football game and new traffic arriving before the volleyball match,” said Colonel Bolduc. “It’s critical for all fans to be mindful of pedestrian traffic and avoid distractions while driving.”Anyone who observes a reckless driver or anyone in need of non-emergency roadside assistance can call *55 to reach the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline. NSP’s portion of this effort is made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers Urge Safe Travel for Husker Saturday Double-Header

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/21/state-auditor-questions-role-of-nebraska-secretary-of-state-foundation-in-trade-missions/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Nebraska’s state auditor is cautioning the secretary of state that he might need some guardrails for a nonprofit he created to help with his international trade missions on behalf of the state.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://auditors.nebraska.gov/APA_Reports/2024/SA9-11202024-November_20_2024_Secretary_of_State_Letter.pdf" target="_blank">new audit</a>, released Wednesday by State Auditor Mike Foley, investigates the Nebraska Secretary of State Foundation, which Secretary of State Bob Evnen created in June 2022. Evnen serves as Nebraska’s “chief protocol officer,” the state’s “goodwill ambassador” to help promote Nebraska with other countries.

The report largely questions whether the secretary of state can share public resources with a private, nongovernmental entity, which isn’t subject to public records or open meetings laws.

“Without such segregation, there is an increased risk for questionable activities, including possible conflicts of interest, that could undermine the public trust or give rise to legal concerns,” the report states.

The audit notes partially blurred lines with invoices from the foundation sharing letterhead with the Secretary of State’s Office. Those documents were sent and negotiated by state employees via their state emails during normal business hours, according to documents Foley’s staff reviewed.

At least once, in December 2022, the foundation personally reimbursed Evnen $3,855.16 for a dinner with the ambassador from Kuwait at Omaha’s Mahogany Prime Steakhouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732294810057.jpeg" alt="Secretary of State Bob Evnen listens to testimony about the May 2024 primary election as part of the Board of State Canvassers on June 10, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Secretary of State Bob Evnen listens to testimony about the May 2024 primary election as part of the Board of State Canvassers on June 10, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/21/state-auditor-questions-role-of-nebraska-secretary-of-state-foundation-in-trade-missions/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Nebraska’s state auditor is cautioning the secretary of state that he might need some guardrails for a nonprofit he created to help with his international trade missions on behalf of the state.The&nbsp;<a href="https://auditors.nebraska.gov/APA_Reports/2024/SA9-11202024-November_20_2024_Secretary_of_State_Letter.pdf" target="_blank">new audit</a>, released Wednesday by State Auditor Mike Foley, investigates the Nebraska Secretary of State Foundation, which Secretary of State Bob Evnen created in June 2022. Evnen serves as Nebraska’s “chief protocol officer,” the state’s “goodwill ambassador” to help promote Nebraska with other countries.The report largely questions whether the secretary of state can share public resources with a private, nongovernmental entity, which isn’t subject to public records or open meetings laws.“Without such segregation, there is an increased risk for questionable activities, including possible conflicts of interest, that could undermine the public trust or give rise to legal concerns,” the report states.<h2>‘Pinching every penny’</h2>The audit notes partially blurred lines with invoices from the foundation sharing letterhead with the Secretary of State’s Office. Those documents were sent and negotiated by state employees via their state emails during normal business hours, according to documents Foley’s staff reviewed.At least once, in December 2022, the foundation personally reimbursed Evnen $3,855.16 for a dinner with the ambassador from Kuwait at Omaha’s Mahogany Prime Steakhouse.Foley, who is in his 10th year as auditor, told the Nebraska Examiner that government business must be done in public, and given the public nature of the trade missions, his office is recommending that Evnen coordinate with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, Attorney General’s Office or Legislature “so that everything’s on the up and up and out in the open.”“As constitutional officers, we have to be even more vigilant than the typical state employee in making sure that we’re good stewards of public funds and pinching every penny and so forth,” said Foley, a former state senator and former lieutenant governor.“Can I now start the ‘State Auditor’s Foundation’ and start soliciting money from folks and having them guide my auditing work?” he asked. “I don’t think so. I don’t think the public wants that.”In a statement to the Examiner, Evnen said he appreciated the professionalism of Foley’s office. He said his office has clarified some information and has given serious consideration to other recommendations.“International trade missions are very beneficial to our state,” Evnen said in a statement to the Nebraska Examiner. “We strive to comply with state acquisition requirements as they relate to international trade missions. We will continue to do so.”<h2>Timeline of trade missions</h2>Foley said former Secretary of State John Gale welcomed international visitors and offered gifts “but he wasn’t a big player on the international scene” as Evnen has been.Between Jan. 1, 2022, and Sept. 28, 2024, Evnen’s office took the following trips:<ul>
 <li>Feb. 8-18, 2022 — Dubai and Jordan in the Middle East and North African region.</li><li>June 26-July 2, 2022 —&nbsp;Bulgaria, as a follow-up mission.</li><li>Oct. 31-Nov. 4, 2022 —&nbsp;U.S. Department of Agriculture mission to East Africa, with stops in Nairobi, Kenya and Tanzania.</li><li>Feb. 12-22, 2024 —&nbsp;Kenya, as a follow-up mission to the country.</li><li>Sept. 21-28, 2024 —&nbsp;Taiwan.</li>
 </ul>The office also planned an Oct. 13-27, 2023, trip to Israel and Jordan, which was canceled after the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists.Before the new foundation was formed, the secretary of state had occasionally used the NebraskaLand Foundation, which was established in 1962 as a nonprofit corporation to promote Nebraska, with the governor as the honorary chairperson. But on June 6, 2022, a new foundation was created, with five board members, to assist Evnen specifically with his chief protocol officer role.The new foundation started with about $9,400 in excess funds used on the Dubai-Jordan mission, though it’s unclear how much was state funds.&nbsp;The audit notes that four agencies donated to the NebraskaLand Foundation for the mission so it is likely that at least a portion was public monies: the Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Grain Sorghum Board, Nebraska Department of Economic Development and Nebraska Dry Bean Commission.<h2>‘It really isn’t monopoly money’</h2>The report outlines other questionable uses of state or foundation funds, including:<ul>
 <li>A $500 check from the Nebraska Corn Board for food in February, which ended up being used to purchase different items.&nbsp;</li><li>Differences in who paid registration fees for the Kenya trip earlier this year. Two Corn Board members did not pay while four staff from the University of Nebraska did.</li>
 </ul>Also for the Kenya trip, the auditor’s office questioned leaving hotel rooms vacant for two days while many attendees attended a “personal safari.” The office concluded that airline tickets for that trip cost almost $16,000 more than if the group had traveled coach instead of business.Evnen’s office responded that the hotel costs couldn’t have been saved during the safari and that the flights were booked months in advance with a consultant. His office said nearly all expenses for the Kenya trip were reimbursed through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which also covered fees for the Corn Board members.Evnen’s staff said they are working on formal written procedures for international trade missions, including making better estimates for registration fees and ensuring that purchases are reasonable and necessary.Both Evnen and Foley said the trade missions are important, but the report questioned whether the direct hand in mission trips was congruent with the “spirit of open and transparent government, a vital pillar of Nebraska’s core civic values.”Foley said the point about being reimbursed from federal funds is an argument frequently made during audits. But both sources are taxpayer funded, he pointed out.“It really isn’t monopoly money,” Foley said. “Real people pay that.”