A man has been given 300 days in jail for running into the rear of a farm tractor and killing its driver in southeast Nebraska. 

Gage County District Court records say 38-year-old Troy Smith, of Crete, was sentenced last week. He'd pleaded no contest to misdemeanor vehicular homicide and careless driving. 

The Nebraska State Patrol says Smith rear-ended the tractor on U.S. Highway 77 north of Beatrice shortly before 8 p.m. July 1, killing its driver, 82-year-old Robert Snyder Sr. Investigators say the tractor was traveling with its hazard lights blinking and a slow traffic sign visible when the crash occurred.&nbsp;

A man has been given 300 days in jail for running into the rear of a farm tractor and killing its driver in southeast Nebraska. Gage County District Court records say 38-year-old Troy Smith, of Crete, was sentenced last week. He'd pleaded no contest to misdemeanor vehicular homicide and careless driving. The Nebraska State Patrol says Smith rear-ended the tractor on U.S. Highway 77 north of Beatrice shortly before 8 p.m. July 1, killing its driver, 82-year-old Robert Snyder Sr. Investigators say the tractor was traveling with its hazard lights blinking and a slow traffic sign visible when the crash occurred.&nbsp;

Man gets 300 days for crash death of farm tractor driver

People throughout the Canadian  province of Ontario awoke to an emergency alert warning of an “incident” at a nuclear plant near Toronto _ only to be told later that the message was a mistake. 

The initial warning popped up Sunday on cellphone screens and television screens throughout the province of 14 million. 

It said an unspecified event had occurred at the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. 

It added that there had been no abnormal release of radioactivity. 

More than an hour later came another message saying the first alert had been an error.

People throughout the Canadian province of Ontario awoke to an emergency alert warning of an “incident” at a nuclear plant near Toronto _ only to be told later that the message was a mistake. The initial warning popped up Sunday on cellphone screens and television screens throughout the province of 14 million. It said an unspecified event had occurred at the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. It added that there had been no abnormal release of radioactivity. Some people planned evacuations. More than an hour later came another message saying the first alert had been an error.

Canadian officials accidentally push nuke alert to millions

The man accused in the hit-and-run death of a Rapid City father of five has pleaded not guilty. 

Twenty-five-year-old Zachary Fegueroa, pleaded not guilty Friday to vehicular homicide, hit and run, and driving under the influence in Dec. 6 death of 34-year-old Joseph Martinez. 

The Rapid City Journal reports if Fegueroa is convicted of all charges and found to be a habitual offender for a 2017 drug ingestion charge, he could be sentenced to up to 31 years in prison. 

 Fegueroa has several other pending cases and multiple convictions related to unsafe driving dating back to 2011.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The man accused in the hit-and-run death of a Rapid City father of five has pleaded not guilty. Twenty-five-year-old Zachary Fegueroa, pleaded not guilty Friday to vehicular homicide, hit and run, and driving under the influence in Dec. 6 death of 34-year-old Joseph Martinez. The Rapid City Journal reports if Fegueroa is convicted of all charges and found to be a habitual offender for a 2017 drug ingestion charge, he could be sentenced to up to 31 years in prison. Fegueroa has several other pending cases and multiple convictions related to unsafe driving dating back to 2011.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Man pleads not guilty in intoxicated hit-and-run death

Nebraska prison officials say an inmate at the Lincoln Correctional Center stabbed a prison staffer with a sharpened toothbrush, causing serious injuries to the staffer. 

The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services says in a news release Friday that the attack happened Thursday evening just after the inmate was escorted from his cell so an inspection could be made of a maintenance issue inside the cell. 

Officials say the inmate, who was in restraints, was still able to use the homemade weapon to stab the staffer twice in the back of the staff member's hand. Other staffers then used pepper spray to subdue the inmate.

Nebraska prison officials say an inmate at the Lincoln Correctional Center stabbed a prison staffer with a sharpened toothbrush, causing serious injuries to the staffer. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services says in a news release Friday that the attack happened Thursday evening just after the inmate was escorted from his cell so an inspection could be made of a maintenance issue inside the cell. Officials say the inmate, who was in restraints, was still able to use the homemade weapon to stab the staffer twice in the back of the staff member's hand. Other staffers then used pepper spray to subdue the inmate.

Officials say inmate stabbed Lincoln prison staffer

At least one death in eastern Iowa is being blamed on a winter storm that slicked Interstate 80. 

Television station KCCI reports that a westbound semitrailer on I-80 crashed early Saturday morning in Cedar County east of Iowa City. 

The Iowa State Patrol says roads were completely covered in ice when the semitrailer left the road and overturned, killing a passenger in the truck.

 The victim's name had not been released by late Saturday afternoon. 

The storm system brought high winds and snow to much of Iowa Friday overnight into Saturday. Around 2 inches fell in areas of eastern Iowa, including Davenport.

At least one death in eastern Iowa is being blamed on a winter storm that slicked Interstate 80. Television station KCCI reports that a westbound semitrailer on I-80 crashed early Saturday morning in Cedar County east of Iowa City. The Iowa State Patrol says roads were completely covered in ice when the semitrailer left the road and overturned, killing a passenger in the truck. The victim's name had not been released by late Saturday afternoon. The storm system brought high winds and snow to much of Iowa Friday overnight into Saturday. Around 2 inches fell in areas of eastern Iowa, including Davenport.

Crash death on Interstate 80 in Iowa blamed on icy roads

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has prepared special Valentine’s Day offers for people who want to mark the day at a state park. 

Discounts and special packages are available at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Ponca State Park, Platte River State Park and Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area. 

Go online for more information or call the individual parks. A park entry permit is required.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has prepared special Valentine’s Day offers for people who want to mark the day at a state park. Discounts and special packages are available at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Ponca State Park, Platte River State Park and Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area. Go online for more information or call the individual parks. A park entry permit is required.

Valentine's Day specials available at some state parks

Gov. Kristi Noem says she won't veto legislation allowing hemp to be grown in the state. 

Noem announced that she won't veto a hemp bill provided it contains four “guardrails" she provided to lawmakers. 

In an interview with KELO, Noem made it clear she wants the crop to be tightly regulated, with government agencies providing licenses and inspections.

 She also wants legislators to come up with a way to pay for the hemp program. The Legislature convenes next week.

Gov. Kristi Noem says she won't veto legislation allowing hemp to be grown in the state. Noem announced that she won't veto a hemp bill provided it contains four “guardrails" she provided to lawmakers. In an interview with KELO, Noem made it clear she wants the crop to be tightly regulated, with government agencies providing licenses and inspections. She also wants legislators to come up with a way to pay for the hemp program. The Legislature convenes next week.

SD Gov. drops plans to veto hemp, but calls for 'guardrails'

Health officials in Omaha have confirmed that two children have died of complications from influenza this flu season. 

The Douglas County HEalth Department said Friday in a news release that both deaths were in people under 18. 

The department says it is prohibited by privacy laws from identifying the two children who died and would not give their exact ages or where they lived in Douglas County. 

The pediatric deaths follow the department's report earlier this week that two adult flu-related adult deaths in people over 65 years have been reported in Douglas County.

Health officials in Omaha have confirmed that two children have died of complications from influenza this flu season. The Douglas County HEalth Department said Friday in a news release that both deaths were in people under 18. The department says it is prohibited by privacy laws from identifying the two children who died and would not give their exact ages or where they lived in Douglas County. The pediatric deaths follow the department's report earlier this week that two adult flu-related adult deaths in people over 65 years have been reported in Douglas County.

Health officials in Omaha confirm 2 pediatric flu deaths

Schools in Nebraska and Iowa cancelled after-school activities and shut down early as residents in both states brace for the latest winter storm. 

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for the southeastern corner of Nebraska and southern, central and much of eastern Iowa for Friday afternoon into early Saturday. 

Those areas — including Fall City in Nebraska and Des Moines, Dubuque, Davenport and Burlington in Iowa — can expect high winds and up to 8 inches of snow. Surrounding areas, including Omaha, Nebraska, and Waterloo, Iowa, are under a winter weather advisory and can expect 2 to 4 inches of snow.

Schools in Nebraska and Iowa cancelled after-school activities and shut down early as residents in both states brace for the latest winter storm. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for the southeastern corner of Nebraska and southern, central and much of eastern Iowa for Friday afternoon into early Saturday. Those areas — including Fall City in Nebraska and Des Moines, Dubuque, Davenport and Burlington in Iowa — can expect high winds and up to 8 inches of snow. Surrounding areas, including Omaha, Nebraska, and Waterloo, Iowa, are under a winter weather advisory and can expect 2 to 4 inches of snow.

Schools, others in Nebraska, Iowa brace for winter storm

A Nebraska man awaiting sentencing for killing and dismembering a 24-year-old Lincoln woman says he's ready to be executed. 

Aubrey Trail told the Omaha World-Herald in an email that if he's sentenced to death he'll file a lawsuit to try to force the state to carry out the sentence in a timely fashion. 

Trail and his girlfriend, 26-year-old Bailey Boswell, were both charged in the 2017 slaying of Sydney Loofe. 

Trail also is trying to remove one of the judges appointed to a three-judge panel that will determine whether Trail's crime qualifies for the death penalty.

A Nebraska man awaiting sentencing for killing and dismembering a 24-year-old Lincoln woman says he's ready to be executed. Aubrey Trail told the Omaha World-Herald in an email that if he's sentenced to death he'll file a lawsuit to try to force the state to carry out the sentence in a timely fashion. Trail and his girlfriend, 26-year-old Bailey Boswell, were both charged in the 2017 slaying of Sydney Loofe. Boswell is awaiting trial. Trail also is trying to remove one of the judges appointed to a three-judge panel that will determine whether Trail's crime qualifies for the death penalty.

Man awaiting sentencing says he's ready to be executed

BURR, Neb. (AP) - Authorities are investigating a worker's death at a cooperative's location in southeast Nebraska's Otoe County.

First responders were sent around 3:45 p.m. Wednesday to the Frontier Cooperative site in Burr following a report about a tire exploding. Deputies found the worker dead when they arrived and another man with minor injuries, the&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/man-killed-in-otoe-county-co-op-accident/article_8b55facf-5311-56e0-8c8a-2094d8865dd0.html" target="_blank">Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported.

The names of those involved and details about what happened haven't been released. An autopsy was ordered.

BURR, Neb. (AP) - Authorities are investigating a worker's death at a cooperative's location in southeast Nebraska's Otoe County.First responders were sent around 3:45 p.m. Wednesday to the Frontier Cooperative site in Burr following a report about a tire exploding. Deputies found the worker dead when they arrived and another man with minor injuries, the&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/man-killed-in-otoe-county-co-op-accident/article_8b55facf-5311-56e0-8c8a-2094d8865dd0.html" target="_blank">Lincoln Journal Star</a>&nbsp;reported.The names of those involved and details about what happened haven't been released. An autopsy was ordered.

Worker found dead at co-op location in southeast Nebraska

HASTINGS, Neb. (AP) - A woman accused of being an accessory to the 2017 slaying of a Hastings man has been sentenced to a year in jail.

At her sentencing, Wednesday, Katherine Creigh, 23, was credited with 75 days already served. She'd made a deal with prosecutors and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/30ca5e0b42534d539b8ce0f72b25c0fe" target="_blank">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;to misdemeanor obstruction of government operations.

She'd been charged as an accessory in the slaying of Jose Hansen, who prosecutors said was killed during a robbery attempt by Daniel Harden and another man.

Creigh testified against Harden during his trial. He was charged with first-degree murder, a weapons count and conspiracy to commit robbery. But jurors&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4143c48b44b949deb531b2d727f04a7f" target="_blank">convicted him</a>&nbsp;only of the robbery charge. He awaits sentencing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578590942318.png" alt="Katherine Creigh" />
 <figcaption>Katherine Creigh</figcaption>
 </figure>HASTINGS, Neb. (AP) - A woman accused of being an accessory to the 2017 slaying of a Hastings man has been sentenced to a year in jail.At her sentencing, Wednesday, Katherine Creigh, 23, was credited with 75 days already served. She'd made a deal with prosecutors and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/30ca5e0b42534d539b8ce0f72b25c0fe" target="_blank">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;to misdemeanor obstruction of government operations.She'd been charged as an accessory in the slaying of Jose Hansen, who prosecutors said was killed during a robbery attempt by Daniel Harden and another man.Creigh testified against Harden during his trial. He was charged with first-degree murder, a weapons count and conspiracy to commit robbery. But jurors&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4143c48b44b949deb531b2d727f04a7f" target="_blank">convicted him</a>&nbsp;only of the robbery charge. He awaits sentencing.

Woman accused in Hastings slaying sentenced to year in jail

To reflect the growing demand for patient services in allergy and immunology, the University of Nebraska Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine has created a Division of Allergy and Immunology, which will include four physicians/faculty members.

The new division had previously been under the Department of Internal Medicine's Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, which will now revert back to the Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine.

Deb Romberger, M.D., Henry J. Lehnhoff Professor and chair of the UNMC Department of Internal Medicine, appointed Jill Poole, M.D., as the division's first chief, effective Jan. 1.

"I am very excited to see our allergy faculty start their journey as a division, and there is no better person in the country to lead them than Dr. Poole," Dr. Romberger said. "She has grown the allergy group to provide clinical services on Nebraska Medicine's main campus, at Village Pointe, Children's Hospital &amp; Medical Center and the Omaha VA Medical Center.

"She also has developed a National Institutes of Health-funded research career. The group provides much education at the medical student and resident physician levels and is working to establish an allergy and immunology fellowship in 2021."

Dr. Romberger said when Dr. Poole was recruited in 2005, she was the first allergist in the internal medicine's Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine.

A native of Grand Island, Nebraska, Dr. Poole received her medical degree in 1999 at UNMC and completed her internal medicine residency in 2002 at Washington University at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. In 2004, she completed an allergy, asthma and immunology fellowship at National Jewish Medical and Research Center/University of Colorado Health Center in Denver, then conducted research and worked in private practice until joining UNMC in 2005. Dr. Poole has authored numerous publications in the field of allergic and respiratory disorders.

"I have always had passion for UNMC since I was medical student here in the 1990s," said Dr. Poole, who also is a UNMC professor and medical director of Allergy and Immunology for Nebraska Medicine. "UNMC has always been a great institution for which I have tremendous pride in. I am excited about all the growth areas we have targeted for the division, including expansion of clinical research, community outreach, and continual commitment to patients in our region to provide cutting-edge, quality allergy and immunology care."

Dr. Poole said mentors she had at UNMC during medical school -- such as Dr. Romberger and Joe Sisson, M.D., professor, internal medicine-pulmonary -- influenced her decision to join the UNMC faculty after she completed her training.

"Dr. Sisson was highly instrumental in my career and an incredible mentor," Dr. Poole said. "Dr. Romberger welcomed me into her VA laboratory and supported my research ideas. I don't know where I would be without the support of Drs. Romberger and Sisson."

She said the creation of a separate division is the realization of a dream for her. Several of the new faculty members in the division were UNMC students or residents, and some even worked with Dr. Poole in her research lab or clinic.

In addition to Dr. Poole, the other physicians in the division include three assistant professors -- Sara May, M.D., Andrew Rorie, M.D., and Joel Van De Graaf, M.D.

"Surrounded by these incredibly talented -- and delightful -- allergists, they have infused enthusiasm and incredible growth into clinical allergy/immunology," Dr. Poole said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578589791704.jpeg" alt="Dr. Jill Poole M.D. of Grand Island has been appointed as head of the new&nbsp; division." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jill Poole M.D. of Grand Island has been appointed as head of the new&nbsp; division.</figcaption>
 </figure>UNMC Press ReleaseTo reflect the growing demand for patient services in allergy and immunology, the University of Nebraska Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine has created a Division of Allergy and Immunology, which will include four physicians/faculty members.The new division had previously been under the Department of Internal Medicine's Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine, which will now revert back to the Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine.Deb Romberger, M.D., Henry J. Lehnhoff Professor and chair of the UNMC Department of Internal Medicine, appointed Jill Poole, M.D., as the division's first chief, effective Jan. 1."I am very excited to see our allergy faculty start their journey as a division, and there is no better person in the country to lead them than Dr. Poole," Dr. Romberger said. "She has grown the allergy group to provide clinical services on Nebraska Medicine's main campus, at Village Pointe, Children's Hospital &amp; Medical Center and the Omaha VA Medical Center."She also has developed a National Institutes of Health-funded research career. The group provides much education at the medical student and resident physician levels and is working to establish an allergy and immunology fellowship in 2021."Dr. Romberger said when Dr. Poole was recruited in 2005, she was the first allergist in the internal medicine's Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy Medicine.A native of Grand Island, Nebraska, Dr. Poole received her medical degree in 1999 at UNMC and completed her internal medicine residency in 2002 at Washington University at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. In 2004, she completed an allergy, asthma and immunology fellowship at National Jewish Medical and Research Center/University of Colorado Health Center in Denver, then conducted research and worked in private practice until joining UNMC in 2005. Dr. Poole has authored numerous publications in the field of allergic and respiratory disorders."I have always had passion for UNMC since I was medical student here in the 1990s," said Dr. Poole, who also is a UNMC professor and medical director of Allergy and Immunology for Nebraska Medicine. "UNMC has always been a great institution for which I have tremendous pride in. I am excited about all the growth areas we have targeted for the division, including expansion of clinical research, community outreach, and continual commitment to patients in our region to provide cutting-edge, quality allergy and immunology care."Dr. Poole said mentors she had at UNMC during medical school -- such as Dr. Romberger and Joe Sisson, M.D., professor, internal medicine-pulmonary -- influenced her decision to join the UNMC faculty after she completed her training."Dr. Sisson was highly instrumental in my career and an incredible mentor," Dr. Poole said. "Dr. Romberger welcomed me into her VA laboratory and supported my research ideas. I don't know where I would be without the support of Drs. Romberger and Sisson."She said the creation of a separate division is the realization of a dream for her. Several of the new faculty members in the division were UNMC students or residents, and some even worked with Dr. Poole in her research lab or clinic.In addition to Dr. Poole, the other physicians in the division include three assistant professors -- Sara May, M.D., Andrew Rorie, M.D., and Joel Van De Graaf, M.D."Surrounded by these incredibly talented -- and delightful -- allergists, they have infused enthusiasm and incredible growth into clinical allergy/immunology," Dr. Poole said.

UNMC Allergy and Immunology division created

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) - A Columbus man has been sentenced to 300 days behind bars for the death of his passenger after the vehicle they were in crashed.

Platte County District Court records say Martin Gomez Jr. was sentenced last week. He'd pleaded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/43c23e01320c49eca85bb28100e9d659" target="_blank">no contest</a>&nbsp;to felony vehicular homicide while driving reckless. Prosecutors had lowered the charge from felony vehicular homicide while under the influence.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b89ade219d5544f88b166a94fd28b3c3" target="_blank">crash occurred</a>&nbsp;on the morning of June 22, about 5 miles north of Columbus. Gomez's northbound sport utility vehicle went out of control, entered a ditch, veered back onto the roadway and rolled several times before coming to rest in a field, authorities have said.

His passenger was pronounced dead at the scene: Joseph Sullivan, 24. He lived in Columbus.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) - A Columbus man has been sentenced to 300 days behind bars for the death of his passenger after the vehicle they were in crashed.Platte County District Court records say Martin Gomez Jr. was sentenced last week. He'd pleaded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/43c23e01320c49eca85bb28100e9d659" target="_blank">no contest</a>&nbsp;to felony vehicular homicide while driving reckless. Prosecutors had lowered the charge from felony vehicular homicide while under the influence.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b89ade219d5544f88b166a94fd28b3c3" target="_blank">crash occurred</a>&nbsp;on the morning of June 22, about 5 miles north of Columbus. Gomez's northbound sport utility vehicle went out of control, entered a ditch, veered back onto the roadway and rolled several times before coming to rest in a field, authorities have said.His passenger was pronounced dead at the scene: Joseph Sullivan, 24. He lived in Columbus.

Man gets 300-day sentence for crash death of passenger

FORT KNOX, Ky. —
A number of fraudulent text messages informing individuals 
they have been selected for a military draft have circulated throughout 
the country this week.

U.S. Army Recruiting Command has received multiple calls and emails 
about these fake text messages and wants to ensure Americans understand 
these texts are false and were not initiated by this command or the U.S.
 Army.

The decision to enact a draft is not made at or by U.S. Army 
Recruiting Command. The Selective Service System, a separate agency 
outside of the Department of Defense, is the organization that manages 
registration for the Selective Service.

&nbsp;"The Selective Service System is conducting business as usual,” 
according to the Selective Service System’s official Facebook page. &nbsp;“In
 the event that a national emergency necessitates a draft, Congress and 
the President would need to pass official legislation to authorize a 
draft."

The draft has not been in effect since 1973. The military has been an
 all-volunteer force since that time. Registering for the Selective 
Service does not enlist a person into the military.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578512987898.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Army Recruiting CommandFORT KNOX, Ky. —
A number of fraudulent text messages informing individuals 
they have been selected for a military draft have circulated throughout 
the country this week.U.S. Army Recruiting Command has received multiple calls and emails 
about these fake text messages and wants to ensure Americans understand 
these texts are false and were not initiated by this command or the U.S.
 Army.The decision to enact a draft is not made at or by U.S. Army 
Recruiting Command. The Selective Service System, a separate agency 
outside of the Department of Defense, is the organization that manages 
registration for the Selective Service.&nbsp;"The Selective Service System is conducting business as usual,” 
according to the Selective Service System’s official Facebook page. &nbsp;“In
 the event that a national emergency necessitates a draft, Congress and 
the President would need to pass official legislation to authorize a 
draft."The draft has not been in effect since 1973. The military has been an
 all-volunteer force since that time. Registering for the Selective 
Service does not enlist a person into the military.

U.S. Army warns of draft-by-text hoax

The president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe is asking for federal help in dealing with methamphetamine use on the reservation that he says has contributed to homicides. 

In a proclamation declaring a state of emergency, Julian Bear Runner says families on the Pine Ridge Reservation are living in a constant state of crisis and trauma.

 Bear Runner is requesting immediate assistance from the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Drug Task Force to help the tribe with meth prevention and intervention efforts. 

Bear Runner wrote in his declaration that the reservation has had several homicides in the past few weeks that were directly related to meth use.&nbsp;

The president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe is asking for federal help in dealing with methamphetamine use on the reservation that he says has contributed to homicides. In a proclamation declaring a state of emergency, Julian Bear Runner says families on the Pine Ridge Reservation are living in a constant state of crisis and trauma. Bear Runner is requesting immediate assistance from the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Drug Task Force to help the tribe with meth prevention and intervention efforts. Bear Runner wrote in his declaration that the reservation has had several homicides in the past few weeks that were directly related to meth use.&nbsp;

Oglala president seeking federal help in dealing with meth

Authorities say a worker was flown to an Omaha hospital after being pulled into a pallet grinder. 

First responders were called to Tradewell Pallet in Gretna a little after 9 a.m. Tuesday. 

Authorities say the 39-year-old employee was working at the grinder when she was caught and partially pulled into it. 

She was flown to Nebraska Medical Center. Her name hasn't been released. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration was notified about the accident.

Authorities say a worker was flown to an Omaha hospital after being pulled into a pallet grinder. First responders were called to Tradewell Pallet in Gretna a little after 9 a.m. Tuesday. Authorities say the 39-year-old employee was working at the grinder when she was caught and partially pulled into it. She was flown to Nebraska Medical Center. Her name hasn't been released. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration was notified about the accident.

Worker hospitalized after being pulled into pallet grinder

Nebraska lawmakers will try to address prison overcrowding problems, approve new tax incentives for businesses and decide how to use a surplus of state tax revenue in the upcoming 2020 session. 

This year’s short, 60-day session will put senators in a time crunch as they consider fresh proposals in addition to legislation carried over from last year. 

They’ll also have to work together if they want to pass major property tax legislation or flood-relief measures, top priorities for many lawmakers and Gov. Pete Ricketts. 

Legislative Speaker Jim Scheer says he expects a lot of debate over what to do with excess money the state has collected.

Nebraska lawmakers will try to address prison overcrowding problems, approve new tax incentives for businesses and decide how to use a surplus of state tax revenue in the upcoming 2020 session. This year’s short, 60-day session will put senators in a time crunch as they consider fresh proposals in addition to legislation carried over from last year. They’ll also have to work together if they want to pass major property tax legislation or flood-relief measures, top priorities for many lawmakers and Gov. Pete Ricketts. Legislative Speaker Jim Scheer says he expects a lot of debate over what to do with excess money the state has collected.

Flooding, taxes among top priorities in new Nebraska session

Officials say three people have been arrested after a package containing tobacco, cellphones and synthetic marijuana were thrown over over a wall of the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln. 

The Nebraska State Patrol says in a news release that an 18-year-old man was arrested around 8 a.m. 

Tuesday after he was seen walking near the penitentiary and throwing a package over the wall. Nebraska Department of Corrections officials say it contained two cellphones, tobacco and K2. 

Two other men, ages 22 and 21, found in a vehicle across the street from the penitentiary also were arrested.

Officials say three people have been arrested after a package containing tobacco, cellphones and synthetic marijuana were thrown over over a wall of the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln. The Nebraska State Patrol says in a news release that an 18-year-old man was arrested around 8 a.m. Tuesday after he was seen walking near the penitentiary and throwing a package over the wall. Nebraska Department of Corrections officials say it contained two cellphones, tobacco and K2. Two other men, ages 22 and 21, found in a vehicle across the street from the penitentiary also were arrested.

3 arrested after package thrown over Nebraska prison wall

Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism

WICHITA – Kansas bowhunter, Brian Butcher, 38, harvested a whitetail buck in Chase County last October that he knew was something special. It wasn't until the buck's rack was measured by Boone and Crockett Club certified measurers on Friday, Jan. 3 that Butcher confirmed just how special the deer&nbsp;<a></a>was. Butcher's whitetail earned an unofficial net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches.

If accepted and verified by the Boone and Crockett Club – an internationally recognized non-profit conservation organization that maintains native North American big game records – the deer Butcher harvested would rank fourth in the world for non-typical whitetail deer. As for the Kansas record books, Butcher's buck will be the largest non-typical whitetail ever taken, surpassing the current state record for a non-typical whitetail harvested with archery equipment by 57 2/8 inches.

"When I first saw it, I thought it had some branches or grass tangled up in its antlers," said Butcher. "But when I looked at him with binoculars, I realized it was all antlers."

Butcher released his arrow when the giant buck was just 25 yards from his treestand and the shot was true. After waiting only 5-10 minutes, Butcher tracked the deer to a spot 50 yards away.

"I had the most opposite feeling of 'ground shrinkage' possible," Butcher said of the big whitetail with 67 scorable points. "I was in complete shock."

After sharing photos of the buck with friend Brian Crowe, the duo got together and attempted to score the deer.

"We added it up five times because it didn't make sense," Butcher laughed. "We had it at 341 inches gross, and 316 inches net."

According to Boone and Crockett guidelines, the rack could not be officially measured until it had dried for at least 60 days. On January 3, Boone and Crockett measurers Marc Murrell, Newton, and Ken Witt, Burleson, Tex., took on what would become a nearly five-hour-long task of scoring the deer. Murrell and Witt came up with a pending net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches.

The score sheet and entry materials on Butcher's buck have been mailed to the Boone and Crockett Club headquarters for verification and acceptance. Because of its high ranking, the rack will be scored again by a panel of measurers at the Boone and Crockett Club's next awards ceremony in 2022.

If it stands, Butcher's buck will rank fourth in the world of non-typical whitetails. Boone and Crockett's top two non-typical whitetails were found dead in Missouri and Ohio and scored 333 7/8 inches and 328 2/8 inches, respectively.

The largest hunter-harvested non-typical whitetail was taken by bowhunter Luke Brewster in Illinois in 2018 and scored 327 7/8 inches.

The current Kansas state record firearm non-typical whitetail was taken in 1987 by Joseph Waters in Shawnee County and scored 280 4/8 inches. The current Kansas state record archery non-typical whitetail was shot by Dale Larson in 1998 in Pottawatomie County and scored 264 1/8 inches.

For more on Kansas big game records, visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/What-to-Hunt.

For more on the Boone and Crockett Club, visit www.boone-crockett.org/.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578444027567.png" alt="Kansas Bowhunter Brian Butcher photo KDWP&amp;T" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Bowhunter Brian Butcher photo KDWP&amp;T</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and TourismWICHITA – Kansas bowhunter, Brian Butcher, 38, harvested a whitetail buck in Chase County last October that he knew was something special. It wasn't until the buck's rack was measured by Boone and Crockett Club certified measurers on Friday, Jan. 3 that Butcher confirmed just how special the deer&nbsp;<a></a>was. Butcher's whitetail earned an unofficial net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches. If accepted and verified by the Boone and Crockett Club – an internationally recognized non-profit conservation organization that maintains native North American big game records – the deer Butcher harvested would rank fourth in the world for non-typical whitetail deer. As for the Kansas record books, Butcher's buck will be the largest non-typical whitetail ever taken, surpassing the current state record for a non-typical whitetail harvested with archery equipment by 57 2/8 inches."When I first saw it, I thought it had some branches or grass tangled up in its antlers," said Butcher. "But when I looked at him with binoculars, I realized it was all antlers."Butcher released his arrow when the giant buck was just 25 yards from his treestand and the shot was true. After waiting only 5-10 minutes, Butcher tracked the deer to a spot 50 yards away."I had the most opposite feeling of 'ground shrinkage' possible," Butcher said of the big whitetail with 67 scorable points. "I was in complete shock."After sharing photos of the buck with friend Brian Crowe, the duo got together and attempted to score the deer."We added it up five times because it didn't make sense," Butcher laughed. "We had it at 341 inches gross, and 316 inches net."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578444176480.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to Boone and Crockett guidelines, the rack could not be officially measured until it had dried for at least 60 days. On January 3, Boone and Crockett measurers Marc Murrell, Newton, and Ken Witt, Burleson, Tex., took on what would become a nearly five-hour-long task of scoring the deer. Murrell and Witt came up with a pending net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches.The score sheet and entry materials on Butcher's buck have been mailed to the Boone and Crockett Club headquarters for verification and acceptance. Because of its high ranking, the rack will be scored again by a panel of measurers at the Boone and Crockett Club's next awards ceremony in 2022.If it stands, Butcher's buck will rank fourth in the world of non-typical whitetails. Boone and Crockett's top two non-typical whitetails were found dead in Missouri and Ohio and scored 333 7/8 inches and 328 2/8 inches, respectively.The largest hunter-harvested non-typical whitetail was taken by bowhunter Luke Brewster in Illinois in 2018 and scored 327 7/8 inches.The current Kansas state record firearm non-typical whitetail was taken in 1987 by Joseph Waters in Shawnee County and scored 280 4/8 inches. The current Kansas state record archery non-typical whitetail was shot by Dale Larson in 1998 in Pottawatomie County and scored 264 1/8 inches.For more on Kansas big game records, visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/What-to-Hunt.For more on the Boone and Crockett Club, visit www.boone-crockett.org/.

 Kansas bowhunter takes world-class whitetail

South Dakotans will vote this year on whether to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 years and older. 

Secretary of State Steve Barnett said Monday his office has validated a proposed constitutional amendment that would legalize marijuana for adults 21 and older and require the state Legislature to enact a hemp cultivation law. 

Barnett says his office found the petition had enough valid signatures to put the proposal on the Nov. 3 ballot. 

South Dakota voters in November also will decide a measure to allow medical marijuana for patients with serious health conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Dakotans will vote this year on whether to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 years and older. Secretary of State Steve Barnett said Monday his office has validated a proposed constitutional amendment that would legalize marijuana for adults 21 and older and require the state Legislature to enact a hemp cultivation law. Barnett says his office found the petition had enough valid signatures to put the proposal on the Nov. 3 ballot. South Dakota voters in November also will decide a measure to allow medical marijuana for patients with serious health conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Dakotans to vote on legalizing recreational marijuana

Nebraska Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) has&nbsp; announced&nbsp; his nomination of four students to the U.S. Service Academies for the class entering in fall 2020.

Members of Congress have the privilege of nominating young people for admission to the U.S. Service Academies, which include the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.&nbsp;

The service academies offer a unique opportunity for motivated students to serve their country while undergoing a rigorous academic and physical regimen. In exchange for tuition, students agree to serve in the U.S. military after graduation.

“It is my honor to nominate a number of talented young Nebraskans, who have demonstrated the skills to become the future leaders of our military,” Smith said. “Their dedication to their studies and commitment to their families and communities showcase their resolve to serve our country. I wish them well and believe they would represent Nebraska proudly.”

Allen McCumbers&nbsp;of Harrison has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado. Allen, a senior at Sioux County High School, is the son of Chad and Cynthia McCumbers.

Colton Craig&nbsp;of McCook has been nominated to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. Colton, a senior at McCook High School, is the son of Chris and Merrilee Craig.

Avril Jones&nbsp;of North Platte has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado. Avril, a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, is the daughter of Damien and Sarah Jones.

Grady Griess&nbsp;of Grand Island has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. Grady, a senior at Grand Island Northwest High School, is the son Melvin and Julie Griess.

Applicants met personally with Smith’s Academy Advisory Committee and were evaluated on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, career motivation, personal traits, letters of recommendation, essays, and personal interviews.

Nebraska Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) has&nbsp; announced&nbsp; his nomination of four students to the U.S. Service Academies for the class entering in fall 2020.Members of Congress have the privilege of nominating young people for admission to the U.S. Service Academies, which include the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.&nbsp;The service academies offer a unique opportunity for motivated students to serve their country while undergoing a rigorous academic and physical regimen. In exchange for tuition, students agree to serve in the U.S. military after graduation.“It is my honor to nominate a number of talented young Nebraskans, who have demonstrated the skills to become the future leaders of our military,” Smith said. “Their dedication to their studies and commitment to their families and communities showcase their resolve to serve our country. I wish them well and believe they would represent Nebraska proudly.”Allen McCumbers&nbsp;of Harrison has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado. Allen, a senior at Sioux County High School, is the son of Chad and Cynthia McCumbers.Colton Craig&nbsp;of McCook has been nominated to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. Colton, a senior at McCook High School, is the son of Chris and Merrilee Craig.Avril Jones&nbsp;of North Platte has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado. Avril, a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, is the daughter of Damien and Sarah Jones.Grady Griess&nbsp;of Grand Island has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. Grady, a senior at Grand Island Northwest High School, is the son Melvin and Julie Griess.Applicants met personally with Smith’s Academy Advisory Committee and were evaluated on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, career motivation, personal traits, letters of recommendation, essays, and personal interviews.

Smith announces nominees to U.S. Service Academies

This week, the Nebraska Legislature kicks off a new session at the State Capitol.&nbsp; Over the interim, I’ve been working with my team and Senators to prepare important initiatives such as property tax relief and flood assistance.&nbsp; On Wednesday, January 15th, I will detail my plans for the session in my annual State of the State address, which you can watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.netnebraska.org/" target="_blank">www.netnebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or read once it’s posted at my website which is listed below.

Ahead of this address, I want to share one very important priority with you.&nbsp; Early in the session, the Legislature is expected to debate tax relief for veterans.&nbsp; Last year, LB 153 was introduced by Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon and prioritized by Senator John Lowe of Kearney at my request.&nbsp; This bill proposes to exempt 50 percent of military retirement benefits from income tax.&nbsp; The Revenue Committee voted to advance it to the full Legislature for floor debate.

Military retirement tax relief is important for several reasons.

First, it helps keep us competitive with surrounding states.&nbsp; Currently, Nebraska’s tax policy on military retirement puts our state at a competitive disadvantage compared to our neighbors.&nbsp; South Dakota and Wyoming don’t have state income taxes.&nbsp; Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, and Missouri exempt military retirement pay from state income taxation.&nbsp; Other Midwestern states are making progress in the area of attracting military retirees by creating better policies for veterans.&nbsp; For example, North Dakota and Indiana both enacted legislation in 2019 to end taxes on military retirement pay.&nbsp;

Second, veterans are a great cultural fit for Nebraska, and we want more of them to make their home in Nebraska.&nbsp; Military families are some of the most dedicated, patriotic citizens in our society.&nbsp; They’re responsible, disciplined, and ready to give back to their community.&nbsp; Since many military personnel can retire after twenty years of service, they often finish their military service in their 40s or 50s.&nbsp; At this age, they’re still looking for ways to actively invest their wealth of skills and experience in a new job.&nbsp; Given our state’s need for talented workers, we cannot afford to have military retirees exit our state for a more favorable tax situation elsewhere.&nbsp;

I know about the value of hiring veterans from firsthand experience.&nbsp; As Governor and in the private sector, several key team members who have worked for me previously served in the military.&nbsp; In my administration, I have hired a former Navy officer as Chief Human Resources Officer and to lead Administrative Services as well as a Captain from the JAG Corps to lead Veterans Affairs.

Finally, tax relief for veterans is a part of our plan to make Nebraska the most veteran-friendly state in the nation and to connect veterans with great opportunities here in the Good Life.&nbsp; My administration has taken a number of steps to make Nebraska a friendlier and more welcoming home for our military families and veterans.&nbsp; We adopted a new rule to enable military spouses to receive a three-year teaching permit in Nebraska with a valid out-of-state license.&nbsp; We expanded the hiring preference in Nebraska to include spouses of service members.&nbsp; We also entered into the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to have one multi-state license.&nbsp; This makes it easier for military spouses to begin work in nursing after moving to our state.&nbsp; Through these initiatives, and a host of others, the State of Nebraska is thanking our veterans in practical ways.&nbsp; Passing LB 153 is the next logical step in our mission to make Nebraska the best state in the U.S. for military families and veterans.

As the legislative session kicks off, I encourage you to follow&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updates on important bills.&nbsp; We will need your help to deliver tax relief and support our veterans.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is an expression of our gratitude for our servicemen and women for the sacrifices they have made.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want to join us on these important efforts, please consider reaching out to your State Senator right away.&nbsp; You can find their contact information at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaLegislature.gov</a>.&nbsp; Let them know you stand with Nebraska’s veterans!

This week, the Nebraska Legislature kicks off a new session at the State Capitol.&nbsp; Over the interim, I’ve been working with my team and Senators to prepare important initiatives such as property tax relief and flood assistance.&nbsp; On Wednesday, January 15th, I will detail my plans for the session in my annual State of the State address, which you can watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.netnebraska.org/" target="_blank">www.netnebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or read once it’s posted at my website which is listed below.Ahead of this address, I want to share one very important priority with you.&nbsp; Early in the session, the Legislature is expected to debate tax relief for veterans.&nbsp; Last year, LB 153 was introduced by Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon and prioritized by Senator John Lowe of Kearney at my request.&nbsp; This bill proposes to exempt 50 percent of military retirement benefits from income tax.&nbsp; The Revenue Committee voted to advance it to the full Legislature for floor debate.Military retirement tax relief is important for several reasons.First, it helps keep us competitive with surrounding states.&nbsp; Currently, Nebraska’s tax policy on military retirement puts our state at a competitive disadvantage compared to our neighbors.&nbsp; South Dakota and Wyoming don’t have state income taxes.&nbsp; Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, and Missouri exempt military retirement pay from state income taxation.&nbsp; Other Midwestern states are making progress in the area of attracting military retirees by creating better policies for veterans.&nbsp; For example, North Dakota and Indiana both enacted legislation in 2019 to end taxes on military retirement pay.&nbsp;Second, veterans are a great cultural fit for Nebraska, and we want more of them to make their home in Nebraska.&nbsp; Military families are some of the most dedicated, patriotic citizens in our society.&nbsp; They’re responsible, disciplined, and ready to give back to their community.&nbsp; Since many military personnel can retire after twenty years of service, they often finish their military service in their 40s or 50s.&nbsp; At this age, they’re still looking for ways to actively invest their wealth of skills and experience in a new job.&nbsp; Given our state’s need for talented workers, we cannot afford to have military retirees exit our state for a more favorable tax situation elsewhere.&nbsp;I know about the value of hiring veterans from firsthand experience.&nbsp; As Governor and in the private sector, several key team members who have worked for me previously served in the military.&nbsp; In my administration, I have hired a former Navy officer as Chief Human Resources Officer and to lead Administrative Services as well as a Captain from the JAG Corps to lead Veterans Affairs.Finally, tax relief for veterans is a part of our plan to make Nebraska the most veteran-friendly state in the nation and to connect veterans with great opportunities here in the Good Life.&nbsp; My administration has taken a number of steps to make Nebraska a friendlier and more welcoming home for our military families and veterans.&nbsp; We adopted a new rule to enable military spouses to receive a three-year teaching permit in Nebraska with a valid out-of-state license.&nbsp; We expanded the hiring preference in Nebraska to include spouses of service members.&nbsp; We also entered into the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to have one multi-state license.&nbsp; This makes it easier for military spouses to begin work in nursing after moving to our state.&nbsp; Through these initiatives, and a host of others, the State of Nebraska is thanking our veterans in practical ways.&nbsp; Passing LB 153 is the next logical step in our mission to make Nebraska the best state in the U.S. for military families and veterans.As the legislative session kicks off, I encourage you to follow&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updates on important bills.&nbsp; We will need your help to deliver tax relief and support our veterans.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is an expression of our gratitude for our servicemen and women for the sacrifices they have made.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want to join us on these important efforts, please consider reaching out to your State Senator right away.&nbsp; You can find their contact information at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaLegislature.gov</a>.&nbsp; Let them know you stand with Nebraska’s veterans!

Gov Pete Ricketts Weekly Column

Nebraska's attorney general says the state's ability to fight human trafficking has improved substantially over the last several years thanks to recent laws that increase penalties for traffickers. 

Attorney General Doug Peterson said Monday that Nebraska is now well-positioned to address the problem. His comments came after Gov. Pete Ricketts proclaimed Monday as Human Trafficking Awareness Day. 

Nebraska received an “A" grade for its policies last year from Shared Hope International, a group that advocates on the issue of human trafficking. Nebraska officials have also launched a public awareness campaign to educate the public about sex and labor trafficking.

Nebraska's attorney general says the state's ability to fight human trafficking has improved substantially over the last several years thanks to recent laws that increase penalties for traffickers. Attorney General Doug Peterson said Monday that Nebraska is now well-positioned to address the problem. His comments came after Gov. Pete Ricketts proclaimed Monday as Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Nebraska received an “A" grade for its policies last year from Shared Hope International, a group that advocates on the issue of human trafficking. Nebraska officials have also launched a public awareness campaign to educate the public about sex and labor trafficking.

State well-positioned to stop human trafficking

An inmate who'd been given permission to leave the state's Community Corrections Center-Lincoln so he could find a job has not returned. 

The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services says Lincoln police were notified that Anthony Durand had not returned by 5 p.m. Monday.

 The department also says Durand managed to remove the monitoring device he was wearing. 

A prisons spokeswoman said Tuesday morning that she had no new information about Durand. 

Durand started serving his three-year prison sentence on Sept. 18 last year. He'd been charged with methamphetamine possession, theft and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;

An inmate who'd been given permission to leave the state's Community Corrections Center-Lincoln so he could find a job has not returned. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services says Lincoln police were notified that Anthony Durand had not returned by 5 p.m. Monday. The department also says Durand managed to remove the monitoring device he was wearing. A prisons spokeswoman said Tuesday morning that she had no new information about Durand. Durand started serving his three-year prison sentence on Sept. 18 last year. He'd been charged with methamphetamine possession, theft and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;