A federal murder trial date has been set for three men charged in the shooting death last year of a Lincoln woman. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that a federal judge in Lincoln set trial for April 27. Tawhyne Patterson Sr., Damon Williams and Dante Williams are charged with murder and two counts of attempted robbery. 

Another man, Ira Morrow, is charged with one count of attempted robbery, as is William Boothe III, who is also accused of being an accessory after the fact. 

All are accused in the July 31, 2018, shooting death of 36-year-old Jessica Brandon at the Lincoln home she shared with her fiance.

A federal murder trial date has been set for three men charged in the shooting death last year of a Lincoln woman. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that a federal judge in Lincoln set trial for April 27. Tawhyne Patterson Sr., Damon Williams and Dante Williams are charged with murder and two counts of attempted robbery. Another man, Ira Morrow, is charged with one count of attempted robbery, as is William Boothe III, who is also accused of being an accessory after the fact. All are accused in the July 31, 2018, shooting death of 36-year-old Jessica Brandon at the Lincoln home she shared with her fiance.

Federal murder trial set for April in Lincoln shooting

Officers have arrested two suspects in connection with the shooting death of a man in Omaha’s Little Italy neighborhood south of downtown. 

Thirty-nine-year-old Daniel Clemons is charged with first-degree murder, assault and three weapons crimes. A second man, 32-year-old Jonathan Adams, has been charged with felony theft and illegal gun possession. Court records don't list the name of attorneys who could comment for the men. 

Officers called to the area Dec. 4 for reports of gunfire found a man on the sidewalk with severe injuries, and he died later at a hospital. Police have identified him as 33-year-old Jethro Dufour.&nbsp;

Officers have arrested two suspects in connection with the shooting death of a man in Omaha’s Little Italy neighborhood south of downtown. Thirty-nine-year-old Daniel Clemons is charged with first-degree murder, assault and three weapons crimes. A second man, 32-year-old Jonathan Adams, has been charged with felony theft and illegal gun possession. Court records don't list the name of attorneys who could comment for the men. Officers called to the area Dec. 4 for reports of gunfire found a man on the sidewalk with severe injuries, and he died later at a hospital. Police have identified him as 33-year-old Jethro Dufour.&nbsp;

2 suspects arrested in slaying south of downtown Omaha

Gov. Kristi Noem says the On Meth campaign is doing more than just getting people talking about meth. It's also led to people seeking addiction treatment. The Republican governor says 87 people have reached out to meth addiction hotlines and 15 have been referred for treatment.

The state drew national attention and some mockery for the nearly $1.4 million campaign that included the tagline, “Meth: We're on it.” Noem stood strongly behind the campaign and says she's glad it's reaching people.

Gov. Kristi Noem says the On Meth campaign is doing more than just getting people talking about meth. It's also led to people seeking addiction treatment. The Republican governor says 87 people have reached out to meth addiction hotlines and 15 have been referred for treatment. The state drew national attention and some mockery for the nearly $1.4 million campaign that included the tagline, “Meth: We're on it.” Noem stood strongly behind the campaign and says she's glad it's reaching people.

Noem says anti-meth campaign is leading people to get help

A imperiled bird has slowed Kanye West's plans for a new building on his ranch in Wyoming. 

West wants to build a large meditation structure on his ranch in the Cody area 50 miles east of Yellowstone National Park. Local officials recently denied the project. 

There are concerns about state regulations to protect sage grouse —brown, chicken-sized birds that spends most of their time on the ground. Sage grouse numbers have dwindled substantially and much of their habitat in Wyoming carries development restrictions.

A imperiled bird has slowed Kanye West's plans for a new building on his ranch in Wyoming. West wants to build a large meditation structure on his ranch in the Cody area 50 miles east of Yellowstone National Park. Local officials recently denied the project. There are concerns about state regulations to protect sage grouse —brown, chicken-sized birds that spends most of their time on the ground. Sage grouse numbers have dwindled substantially and much of their habitat in Wyoming carries development restrictions.

Sage grouse slow Kanye West's Wyoming building project

An Iowa man has died in Norfolk, Nebraska, after the Jeep he was driving crossed a raised median and crashed into a truck. 

The Madison County Sheriff's Office says the crash happened Thursday morning when 30-year-old Donovan Rasmussen, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, apparently lost control of a Jeep on Highway 81. 

The vehicle crossed a raised median and hit a cargo truck. Rasmussen died in the crash. The driver of the truck was 34-year-old Westley Lyon, of Columbus, Nebraska. 

He was treated for minor injuries. The crash forced the closure of Highway 81 for about four hours.

An Iowa man has died in Norfolk, Nebraska, after the Jeep he was driving crossed a raised median and crashed into a truck. The Madison County Sheriff's Office says the crash happened Thursday morning when 30-year-old Donovan Rasmussen, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, apparently lost control of a Jeep on Highway 81. The vehicle crossed a raised median and hit a cargo truck. Rasmussen died in the crash. The driver of the truck was 34-year-old Westley Lyon, of Columbus, Nebraska. He was treated for minor injuries. The crash forced the closure of Highway 81 for about four hours.

Iowa man dies in Norfolk when Jeep crashes into truck

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Tuition at Lincoln-based Southeast Community College will remain unchanged for the 2020-21 school year, the school's governing board has announced.

The board voted Tuesday to keep tuition rates flat, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/education/scc-keeps-tuition-flat-raises-fees-to-support-modernization-efforts/article_b9ec04a3-a863-560a-8c9a-6cff98c1f535.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. That means Nebraska students will continue paying $102 per credit hour next year, while out-of-state students will continue paying $123 per credit hour.

Student will pay $3 more per credit hour in student fees beginning next year - a nearly 3% increase. The increase is expected to generate an additional $600,000. SCC President Paul Illich said the additional fees will be used to address facility needs across the college's 15-county area.

"We always look at where we're at relative to other colleges and are always very conscious about affordability," Illich said. "Students recognize the modernizing we're doing, and they are excited about it and very supportive."

The board also raised room and board rates for next year. Students living on campus can expect to pay between 0.9% and 1.5% more, depending on the size of their rooms.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Tuition at Lincoln-based Southeast Community College will remain unchanged for the 2020-21 school year, the school's governing board has announced.The board voted Tuesday to keep tuition rates flat, the Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/local/education/scc-keeps-tuition-flat-raises-fees-to-support-modernization-efforts/article_b9ec04a3-a863-560a-8c9a-6cff98c1f535.html" target="_blank">reported</a>. That means Nebraska students will continue paying $102 per credit hour next year, while out-of-state students will continue paying $123 per credit hour.Student will pay $3 more per credit hour in student fees beginning next year - a nearly 3% increase. The increase is expected to generate an additional $600,000. SCC President Paul Illich said the additional fees will be used to address facility needs across the college's 15-county area."We always look at where we're at relative to other colleges and are always very conscious about affordability," Illich said. "Students recognize the modernizing we're doing, and they are excited about it and very supportive."The board also raised room and board rates for next year. Students living on campus can expect to pay between 0.9% and 1.5% more, depending on the size of their rooms.

Lincoln community college tuition to remain steady next year

Officers have arrested a suspect in the shooting death of a man in Omaha’s Little Italy neighborhood south of downtown. 

Daniel Clemons is charged with first-degree murder, assault and three weapons crimes. Court records don't list the name of an attorney who could comment for the 39-year-old man. 

Officers called to the area Dec. 4 for reports of gunfire found a man on the sidewalk with severe injuries, and he died later at a hospital. 

Police have identified him as 33-year-old Jethro Dufour.&nbsp;

Officers have arrested a suspect in the shooting death of a man in Omaha’s Little Italy neighborhood south of downtown. Daniel Clemons is charged with first-degree murder, assault and three weapons crimes. Court records don't list the name of an attorney who could comment for the 39-year-old man. Officers called to the area Dec. 4 for reports of gunfire found a man on the sidewalk with severe injuries, and he died later at a hospital. Police have identified him as 33-year-old Jethro Dufour.&nbsp;

Suspect arrested in slaying south of downtown Omaha

Some farm groups and farm-state lawmakers are expressing anger at the Trump administration over final ethanol rules that they say fail to uphold the president's promises to the industry. 

The Environmental Protection Agency has released final renewable fuel standard rules for next year that do not include language President Donald Trump agreed to that would guarantee 15 billion gallons of ethanol is blended into the nation's gasoline supply. 

The EPA contends it's fulfilling the promises. 

Industry groups say the language in the final rule is too vague and could allow EPA to miss the mandated ethanol requirements.

Some farm groups and farm-state lawmakers are expressing anger at the Trump administration over final ethanol rules that they say fail to uphold the president's promises to the industry. The Environmental Protection Agency has released final renewable fuel standard rules for next year that do not include language President Donald Trump agreed to that would guarantee 15 billion gallons of ethanol is blended into the nation's gasoline supply. The EPA contends it's fulfilling the promises. Industry groups say the language in the final rule is too vague and could allow EPA to miss the mandated ethanol requirements.

Farm, ethanol groups angered at final EPA ethanol rule

A school principal accused of drunken driving has been given probation and conditional jail time. Lee Wolfe, of Grand Island, pleaded no contest Wednesday in Central City to misdemeanor driving under the influence and a related crime. He was sentenced to six months of probation and 10 days in jail. The jail time can be waived at the judge's discretion. Authorities say Wolfe's blood alcohol content was twice the legal limit after he was stopped Aug. 11 in Central City. Wolfe's son was with him. Wolfe is principal at Shoemaker Elementary in Grand Island. School officials have said he'll remain with the district.

A school principal accused of drunken driving has been given probation and conditional jail time. Lee Wolfe, of Grand Island, pleaded no contest Wednesday in Central City to misdemeanor driving under the influence and a related crime. He was sentenced to six months of probation and 10 days in jail. The jail time can be waived at the judge's discretion. Authorities say Wolfe's blood alcohol content was twice the legal limit after he was stopped Aug. 11 in Central City. Wolfe's son was with him. Wolfe is principal at Shoemaker Elementary in Grand Island. School officials have said he'll remain with the district.

Elementary school principal sentenced in drunk driving case

Authorities say a man died after getting trapped in a northeast Nebraska grain elevator. Deputies and emergency crews were sent about 2:50 p.m. Tuesday to the scene about 5 miles east and a mile south of Hartington. The workers managed to free him, but he was pronounced dead a short time later. The Cedar County Sheriff's Office identified him as 60-year-old Kelly Burbach, who lived in Coleridge. The sheriff's office says he worked for Hansen Farms.&nbsp;

Authorities say a man died after getting trapped in a northeast Nebraska grain elevator. Deputies and emergency crews were sent about 2:50 p.m. Tuesday to the scene about 5 miles east and a mile south of Hartington. The workers managed to free him, but he was pronounced dead a short time later. The Cedar County Sheriff's Office identified him as 60-year-old Kelly Burbach, who lived in Coleridge. The sheriff's office says he worked for Hansen Farms.&nbsp;

Man dies after being freed from northeast Nebraska grain bin

America's obesity problem may be bigger than it has appeared. A new report predicts that nearly half of U.S. adults will be obese within a decade and one quarter will be severely so. 

Most previous estimates relied on health surveys and people often understate their weight in those. Wednesday's report in the New England Journal of Medicine used a decades-long federal study in which weight was measured to get a more accurate picture. 

An independent expert says the trends are alarming and suggest we're facing medical and financial problems because so many people weigh too much.&nbsp;

By MARILYNN MARCHIONE-Associated PressAmerica's obesity problem may be bigger than it has appeared. A new report predicts that nearly half of U.S. adults will be obese within a decade and one quarter will be severely so. Most previous estimates relied on health surveys and people often understate their weight in those. Wednesday's report in the New England Journal of Medicine used a decades-long federal study in which weight was measured to get a more accurate picture. An independent expert says the trends are alarming and suggest we're facing medical and financial problems because so many people weigh too much.&nbsp;

Study estimates that half of US adults will be obese by 2030

A federal lawsuit alleges that police in Kansas City, Kansas, broke into a man's home in the middle of the night and beat him before having him charged with battery of a law enforcement officer. 

The Kansas City Star reports that 43-year-old Joseph Harter claims in the lawsuit filed last week that he was beaten and falsely imprisoned in October 2018. The charge was dropped less than two months later. 

The police department and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County declined to comment on the pending litigation.

A federal lawsuit alleges that police in Kansas City, Kansas, broke into a man's home in the middle of the night and beat him before having him charged with battery of a law enforcement officer. The Kansas City Star reports that 43-year-old Joseph Harter claims in the lawsuit filed last week that he was beaten and falsely imprisoned in October 2018. The charge was dropped less than two months later. The police department and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County declined to comment on the pending litigation.

Suit: Police barged into Kansas home, beat man for no reason

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Tuesday, at a ceremony in the State Capitol Rotunda, Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore&nbsp;recognized several dozen heroes who helped save lives during the 2019 flooding.&nbsp; They were joined by Major General Daryl L. Bohac—Adjutant General of the Nebraska Guard and Director of the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)—and NEMA Assistant Director Bryan Tuma to present the awards.

“As Susanne and I traveled the state in the aftermath of the most widespread natural disaster in our history, we heard heartwarming stories of ordinary Nebraskans doing extraordinary work,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“Nebraskans showed their strength, grit, and compassion in countless ways. &nbsp;They rescued stranded neighbors and animals, sandbagged wells, donated hay and supplies, delivered hot meals, and raised funds for those who lost everything. &nbsp;This State Capitol ceremony is the first of several ways we plan to honor heroes from the floods over the course of the next year.”

In June, the Governor and First Lady asked Nebraskans to submit nominations for the Flood Heroes honor.&nbsp; Hundreds of nominations were received, detailing Nebraskans’&nbsp;extraordinary compassion and bravery in service of their communities.&nbsp; Among the state’s many Flood Heroes, those who took direct action to save the lives of others received their official honor at the Capitol. &nbsp;

“During the floods, Nebraskans rose to the challenge to protect their families and assist their neighbors,” First Lady Shore said.&nbsp; “Many worked overtime, risked their personal safety, and generously contributed their time and money to give aid to their communities.&nbsp; We have been inspired by the stories of these heroes in our midst.&nbsp; I am grateful for the opportunity to give them official recognition for their service to our state.”

In March, blizzards and floods caused the most widespread natural disaster in Nebraska’s history. &nbsp;The disaster claimed lives and caused billions of dollars in damages across the state.&nbsp; Thousands of homes and businesses were lost. &nbsp;Disaster declarations were issued in 84 counties, 104 cities and villages, and 5 tribes.

While many Nebraskans suffered losses from the flood, many more stepped up to help families and neighbors. &nbsp;Across the state, Nebraskans immediately took action and displayed great courage, in some cases risking their own lives to save others. &nbsp;An army of individuals volunteered to feed flood victims, rebuild homes, and help put lives back together.&nbsp;

James Wilke, a farmer from Columbus, was the first Flood Hero recognized at today’s ceremony. &nbsp;James sacrificed his life while volunteering to save a stranded motorist. &nbsp;When driving his tractor to aid a rescue attempt, the bridge he traveled over could not withstand the powerful water. &nbsp;The bridge collapsed, and God called James home. &nbsp;His mother Jan, wife Rachel, and children Julianne, Colton, and Addie accepted the award on his behalf.

The Governor and First Lady also presented an award to air crewmen and coordinators with the Nebraska National Guard.&nbsp; From March 13th&nbsp;to April 13th, the Guard rescued 112 people (66 by hoist rescues) and saved 13 pets. &nbsp;Many of these rescues took place in severe weather.&nbsp; Pilots reported that the poor flying conditions during the Nebraska floods were worse than some of the experiences they had conducting missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A group of brave men from the Fremont area were also honored for their heroism. &nbsp;On Thursday, March 14th, these first responders sprang into action after receiving urgent calls for help from a stranded family with a two-year-old girl living along&nbsp;the Elkhorn River.&nbsp; With Highway 30 blocked by floodwaters, the seven rescuers volunteered for a waterborne rescue—using two of their own airboats.&nbsp; Wind gusts of 40-50 miles per hour resulted in massive whitecaps, and the huge waves capsized the first boat.&nbsp; The second boat also overturned as its crew tried to provide assistance.

With their boats sunk, the men contacted Fremont’s Fire Chief as they struggled to stay afloat in the freezing water and choppy waves.&nbsp; In turn, he initiated a chain of communication that resulted in the Nebraska Army National Guard sending a Black Hawk helicopter from Columbus.&nbsp; The chopper airlifted the men to Fremont Municipal Airport.&nbsp; Upon landing, they were rushed to Methodist Fremont Health hospital to receive medical attention.&nbsp; Their body temperatures were dangerously low from having been submerged in the icy water.&nbsp; Thankfully, all seven men fully recovered, and—in true Nebraska fashion—they were soon back out performing more rescue missions. &nbsp;Fremont’s Fire Chief nicknamed them “The Magnificent Seven” for their heroism. The family they had initially tried to rescue was eventually transported to safety by a Nebraska Game and Parks airboat.

To read short bios of the other individuals recognized at today’s ceremony,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/im714401j8yn8kc/Governor%27s%20Flood%20Heroes%20-%20Short%20Bios.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp; To watch the ceremony,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GovernorPeteRicketts/videos/1411981592300765/" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp; An album of photos from today’s event is also available by&nbsp;<a href="https://neimpact.org/heroes" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

At today’s ceremony, the following fire departments also received recognition for their courageous, lifesaving actions during the floods:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ainsworth Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cedar Creek Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fremont Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lynch Volunteer Fire Department Chief

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mead Volunteer Fire Department Chief

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monroe Volunteer Fire Department Chief

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nickerson Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;North Bend Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pierce Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Valley Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Waterloo Fire Department

Other Fire Departments being honored, but unable to attend the ceremony include:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chapman Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fremont Rural Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O’Neill Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pleasanton Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Spencer Volunteer Fire Department

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wood River Volunteer Fire Department

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Tuesday, at a ceremony in the State Capitol Rotunda, Governor Pete Ricketts and First Lady Susanne Shore&nbsp;recognized several dozen heroes who helped save lives during the 2019 flooding.&nbsp; They were joined by Major General Daryl L. Bohac—Adjutant General of the Nebraska Guard and Director of the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)—and NEMA Assistant Director Bryan Tuma to present the awards.“As Susanne and I traveled the state in the aftermath of the most widespread natural disaster in our history, we heard heartwarming stories of ordinary Nebraskans doing extraordinary work,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“Nebraskans showed their strength, grit, and compassion in countless ways. &nbsp;They rescued stranded neighbors and animals, sandbagged wells, donated hay and supplies, delivered hot meals, and raised funds for those who lost everything. &nbsp;This State Capitol ceremony is the first of several ways we plan to honor heroes from the floods over the course of the next year.”In June, the Governor and First Lady asked Nebraskans to submit nominations for the Flood Heroes honor.&nbsp; Hundreds of nominations were received, detailing Nebraskans’&nbsp;extraordinary compassion and bravery in service of their communities.&nbsp; Among the state’s many Flood Heroes, those who took direct action to save the lives of others received their official honor at the Capitol. &nbsp;“During the floods, Nebraskans rose to the challenge to protect their families and assist their neighbors,” First Lady Shore said.&nbsp; “Many worked overtime, risked their personal safety, and generously contributed their time and money to give aid to their communities.&nbsp; We have been inspired by the stories of these heroes in our midst.&nbsp; I am grateful for the opportunity to give them official recognition for their service to our state.”In March, blizzards and floods caused the most widespread natural disaster in Nebraska’s history. &nbsp;The disaster claimed lives and caused billions of dollars in damages across the state.&nbsp; Thousands of homes and businesses were lost. &nbsp;Disaster declarations were issued in 84 counties, 104 cities and villages, and 5 tribes.While many Nebraskans suffered losses from the flood, many more stepped up to help families and neighbors. &nbsp;Across the state, Nebraskans immediately took action and displayed great courage, in some cases risking their own lives to save others. &nbsp;An army of individuals volunteered to feed flood victims, rebuild homes, and help put lives back together.&nbsp;James Wilke, a farmer from Columbus, was the first Flood Hero recognized at today’s ceremony. &nbsp;James sacrificed his life while volunteering to save a stranded motorist. &nbsp;When driving his tractor to aid a rescue attempt, the bridge he traveled over could not withstand the powerful water. &nbsp;The bridge collapsed, and God called James home. &nbsp;His mother Jan, wife Rachel, and children Julianne, Colton, and Addie accepted the award on his behalf.The Governor and First Lady also presented an award to air crewmen and coordinators with the Nebraska National Guard.&nbsp; From March 13th&nbsp;to April 13th, the Guard rescued 112 people (66 by hoist rescues) and saved 13 pets. &nbsp;Many of these rescues took place in severe weather.&nbsp; Pilots reported that the poor flying conditions during the Nebraska floods were worse than some of the experiences they had conducting missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.A group of brave men from the Fremont area were also honored for their heroism. &nbsp;On Thursday, March 14th, these first responders sprang into action after receiving urgent calls for help from a stranded family with a two-year-old girl living along&nbsp;the Elkhorn River.&nbsp; With Highway 30 blocked by floodwaters, the seven rescuers volunteered for a waterborne rescue—using two of their own airboats.&nbsp; Wind gusts of 40-50 miles per hour resulted in massive whitecaps, and the huge waves capsized the first boat.&nbsp; The second boat also overturned as its crew tried to provide assistance.With their boats sunk, the men contacted Fremont’s Fire Chief as they struggled to stay afloat in the freezing water and choppy waves.&nbsp; In turn, he initiated a chain of communication that resulted in the Nebraska Army National Guard sending a Black Hawk helicopter from Columbus.&nbsp; The chopper airlifted the men to Fremont Municipal Airport.&nbsp; Upon landing, they were rushed to Methodist Fremont Health hospital to receive medical attention.&nbsp; Their body temperatures were dangerously low from having been submerged in the icy water.&nbsp; Thankfully, all seven men fully recovered, and—in true Nebraska fashion—they were soon back out performing more rescue missions. &nbsp;Fremont’s Fire Chief nicknamed them “The Magnificent Seven” for their heroism. The family they had initially tried to rescue was eventually transported to safety by a Nebraska Game and Parks airboat.To read short bios of the other individuals recognized at today’s ceremony,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/im714401j8yn8kc/Governor%27s%20Flood%20Heroes%20-%20Short%20Bios.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp; To watch the ceremony,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GovernorPeteRicketts/videos/1411981592300765/" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp; An album of photos from today’s event is also available by&nbsp;<a href="https://neimpact.org/heroes" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.At today’s ceremony, the following fire departments also received recognition for their courageous, lifesaving actions during the floods:Fire Department Honorees:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ainsworth Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cedar Creek Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fremont Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lynch Volunteer Fire Department Chief·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mead Volunteer Fire Department Chief·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monroe Volunteer Fire Department Chief·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nickerson Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;North Bend Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pierce Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Valley Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Waterloo Fire DepartmentOther Fire Departments being honored, but unable to attend the ceremony include:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chapman Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fremont Rural Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O’Neill Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pleasanton Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Spencer Volunteer Fire Department·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wood River Volunteer Fire Department

Gov. Ricketts and First Lady honor Nebraska flood lifesavers

NCTA Press Release CURTIS, Neb. – Aggies who participate in student clubs and campus organizations have a voice in leadership at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture.

The NCTA Student Senate is comprised of the representatives of the 20 clubs and teams at the agricultural campus, said KayLee Rasmussen of Burwell, Student Senate president.

“Each of the clubs or teams sends a first-year and second-year student to serve on the senate,” said Rasmussen, an animal science major who is secretary of the Aggies Shotgun Sports Team.

The Senate reorganized this fall with officers coordinating projects and campus meetings with their new Senate faculty sponsor Mary Rittenhouse, chair of the Agribusiness Management Systems division.

President:&nbsp; KayLee Rasmussen, Burwell, 2nd&nbsp;year representative for Shotgun Sports Team

Vice President:&nbsp; Sarah Campbell, Omaha, 1st&nbsp;year representative for Student Technicians of Veterinary Medicine Association

Secretary:&nbsp;Aileen Reynosa, Lexington, 1st&nbsp;year representative of Safari Club

Treasurer: Nicole Wright, LeRoy, Kansas, 1st&nbsp;year representative for Women in Ag

“I am looking forward to working with these campus leaders this next semester,” said Professor Rittenhouse. “I know they have great ideas going forward for helping students make the best of their individual experiences.”

NCTA Press Release CURTIS, Neb. – Aggies who participate in student clubs and campus organizations have a voice in leadership at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture.The NCTA Student Senate is comprised of the representatives of the 20 clubs and teams at the agricultural campus, said KayLee Rasmussen of Burwell, Student Senate president.“Each of the clubs or teams sends a first-year and second-year student to serve on the senate,” said Rasmussen, an animal science major who is secretary of the Aggies Shotgun Sports Team.The Senate reorganized this fall with officers coordinating projects and campus meetings with their new Senate faculty sponsor Mary Rittenhouse, chair of the Agribusiness Management Systems division.2019-2020 officers are:President:&nbsp; KayLee Rasmussen, Burwell, 2nd&nbsp;year representative for Shotgun Sports TeamVice President:&nbsp; Sarah Campbell, Omaha, 1st&nbsp;year representative for Student Technicians of Veterinary Medicine AssociationSecretary:&nbsp;Aileen Reynosa, Lexington, 1st&nbsp;year representative of Safari ClubTreasurer: Nicole Wright, LeRoy, Kansas, 1st&nbsp;year representative for Women in Ag“I am looking forward to working with these campus leaders this next semester,” said Professor Rittenhouse. “I know they have great ideas going forward for helping students make the best of their individual experiences.”

NCTA student senate has voice in college leadership

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested two people after discovering more than 200 pounds of marijuana in two traffic stops Monday.

At approximately 5:40 p.m. MT, a trooper observed a Hyundai Santa Fe fail to signal a turn as it was exiting Interstate 80 at the Ogallala interchange. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected criminal activity. A search of the vehicle revealed 116 pounds of marijuana.

The driver, Erasmo Arteaga Chavez, 26, of Renton, Washington, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to deliver. He was lodged in Keith County Jail.

At approximately 7:20 p.m. CT, another trooper observed a Ford Explorer following too closely on Interstate 80 at mile marker 273 near Kearney. During the traffic stop, the trooper observed signs of clandestine activity. Troopers performed a search of the vehicle and discovered 95 pounds of marijuana.

The driver, Patricia Jolly, 57, of Pearl, Mississippi was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to deliver. Jolly was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested two people after discovering more than 200 pounds of marijuana in two traffic stops Monday.At approximately 5:40 p.m. MT, a trooper observed a Hyundai Santa Fe fail to signal a turn as it was exiting Interstate 80 at the Ogallala interchange. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected criminal activity. A search of the vehicle revealed 116 pounds of marijuana.The driver, Erasmo Arteaga Chavez, 26, of Renton, Washington, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to deliver. He was lodged in Keith County Jail.At approximately 7:20 p.m. CT, another trooper observed a Ford Explorer following too closely on Interstate 80 at mile marker 273 near Kearney. During the traffic stop, the trooper observed signs of clandestine activity. Troopers performed a search of the vehicle and discovered 95 pounds of marijuana.The driver, Patricia Jolly, 57, of Pearl, Mississippi was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to deliver. Jolly was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers Find 211 LBs of Marijuana in I-80 Traffic Stops

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Hundreds of containers — many carrying hazardous materials — have floated into Missouri since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4495e896075044fc82264bfccb0bc09f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 167, 218);">flooding</a>&nbsp;in the upper Missouri River basin during the spring. Missouri Department of Natural Resources officials say the agency collected more than 740 containers this year. Many are believed to be from Nebraska and Iowa. The containers range from small buckets to 500,000-gallon (1.9 million-liter) tanks. Many contain diesel fuel, pesticides or ammonia. KCUR&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/hundreds-orphaned-containers-washed-missouri-during-spring-floods" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 167, 218);">reports</a>&nbsp;most of the containers washed up on the banks of the Missouri River in northwest Missouri.Environmental scientist Stephen McLane says the goal is to return the containers to their owners, but many don’t have identifying marks. A recycler in Kansas City has helped the agency dispose of roughly 12,000 gallons (45,425 liters) of fuel, pesticides and herbicides. McLane said the agency expects to be collecting orphaned containers through at least January.

Missouri collecting containers found floating in floodwaters

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Days after more than 450 Oklahoma inmates walked out of prison in the nation's largest single-day prisoner release, a group that championed that effort launched a new initiative Tuesday aimed at further reducing the state's high incarceration rate. The bipartisan group of business, political and religious leaders filed a constitutional ballot initiative on Tuesday that would prohibit prosecutors from using previous felony convictions to enhance sentences in nonviolent cases. It would also allow people who already had such sentence enhancements to petition the courts for relief. Once the petition is finalized, the group will have 90 days to gather nearly 178,000 signatures from registered voters to place the proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot. The same group launched a successful initiative in 2016 that reduced criminal penalties and ultimately helped lead to the release of hundreds of inmates from prison last week. Former Republican Speaker of the Oklahoma House Kris Steele, the executive director of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform, said the group turned to the ballot initiative because of opposition to such changes in the Legislature. "This policy has been introduced in the Legislature for three consecutive years now, and despite widespread support from elected leaders and the voters of our state, we have not gained any traction, in large part because of the opposition of prosecutors inside this building," Steele said. Oklahoma's 27 elected district attorneys are a powerful political force at the Capitol and have opposed many previous attempts by the Legislature to reduce the state's prison population. Trent Baggett, executive coordinator of the District Attorneys Council, declined to comment Tuesday, saying it was the first time he had seen the proposal. Telephone and email messages left Tuesday with District Attorney Jason Hicks, president of the Oklahoma District Attorneys Association, were not immediately returned. Oklahoma had the second-highest incarceration rate in the nation in 2017, second only to Louisiana, according to the most recent statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics. The state currently spends about $500 million annually, or roughly 7% of the state's appropriated budget, on corrections. A 2017 study on Oklahoma's prison population found the state uses prison instead of alternatives more often than other states and has significantly longer sentences for nonviolent offenders. Oklahoma's new CEO-turned Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican, has made reducing the state's prison population one of his key initiatives. He signed the mass commutation of prisoners earlier this month and personally greeted many of the inmates as they walked out the prison doors. The 2016 state question, which reclassified drug possession and property crimes under $1,000 as misdemeanors, passed with more than 58% of the vote.