LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is offering incentives to faculty, staff and students who voluntarily sign up for a registry showing they are vaccinated against COVID-19. 

The incentives include five prizes worth a total of $9,872 — equal to one year of in-state tuition and fees — or a trip to Ireland to watch the Huskers play football in August 2022. 

The university announced the initiative in a letter to students and staff on Wednesday. 

Anyone who registers by Aug. 15 will be eligible for the incentives. 

The university also announced it will again require weekly saliva-based testing for all students, faculty and staff on Lincoln campuses for the fall semester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623671038532.png" alt="Vaccine photo by Matt Feldman, Novavax" />
 <figcaption>Vaccine photo by Matt Feldman, Novavax</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is offering incentives to faculty, staff and students who voluntarily sign up for a registry showing they are vaccinated against COVID-19. The incentives include five prizes worth a total of $9,872 — equal to one year of in-state tuition and fees — or a trip to Ireland to watch the Huskers play football in August 2022. The university announced the initiative in a letter to students and staff on Wednesday. Anyone who registers by Aug. 15 will be eligible for the incentives. The university also announced it will again require weekly saliva-based testing for all students, faculty and staff on Lincoln campuses for the fall semester.Examples of incentives:Students<ol>
 <li>Meal plan of $250 Dining Dollars</li><li>Husker Gear ($250)</li><li>Semester of monthly 60-minutes massages ($240)</li><li>Semester of climbing at Outdoor Adventure Center ($210)</li><li>Smartwatch</li><li>Weekly free Dairy Store ice cream</li>
 </ol>Faculty<ol>
 <li>One year reserved/named parking spot</li><li>Lied Center season ticket for two</li><li>Husker football season tickets for two</li><li>Husker volleyball season tickets for two</li><li>60-minute massage</li><li>Champion Club seating pass for two</li>
 </ol>

University of Nebraska-Lincoln offering vaccine incentives

Jean Condon is the recipient of the 2021 Dr. Donald L. Moore Leadership Award from the Mountain-Plains Business Education Association. She was honored June 15 during the M-PBEA Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.

Condon is a business and office technology instructor at Mid-Plains Community College. She is also chair of the college’s Business and Technology division.

“It is very humbling to receive such an award from my colleagues,” Condon said. “Many previous recipients of this award have been my mentors and leaders of this great association. There are so many people who need to be thanked for making me a better educator.”

The Dr. Donald Moore Leadership Award, which recognizes outstanding leaders within the M-PBEA, is the most prestige award that a member can receive. Recipients have provided countless hours of service toward business education on both the regional and national levels.

Condon was nominated for the award by her colleagues and fellow members of the M-PBEA.

“Jean is an instrumental asset to the business department,” her nomination letter reads. “In addition to supporting and growing her team, she has developed new curriculum and programs for both in-person and online/virtual formats.”

Condon is credited with developing the business administration and medical coding program areas at MPCC as well as with incorporating lifelong learning opportunities for students in business and technology by creating an internship course for associate of applied science in business degree students.

Condon has also helped with the development of state curriculum standards in business and technology and implemented course curriculum for a Kiewit Scholars Program, which prepares students for entry or re-entry into the workforce.

“Jean works very hard to make certain her division members function as a team - encouraging communication and input from all members,” said Lorrie Mowry, MPCC accounting, business and computer science instructor. “She also strongly supports professional development to improve the teaching skills of her members.”

Condon has presented at numerous regional and national conferences over the years. She is currently the M-PBEA president and previously served as the organization’s secretary, committee chair and membership director for Nebraska.

Condon has been a member of the National Business Education Association for more than 25 years, the National Policies Commission for Business and Economic Education and is a longtime professional member of Phi Beta Lambda. She has also assisted with Future Business Leaders of America.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624556335087.png" alt="Jean&nbsp;Condon, business and office technology instructor for Mid-Plains Community College, receives the Dr. Donald L. Moore Leadership Award from the Mountain-Plains Business Education Association in Fort Worth, Texas June 15. Presenting her with the award is Dr. DeLayne Havlovic, coordinator of K-12 Career Education and Programming for Omaha Public Schools." />
 <figcaption>Jean&nbsp;Condon, business and office technology instructor for Mid-Plains Community College, receives the Dr. Donald L. Moore Leadership Award from the Mountain-Plains Business Education Association in Fort Worth, Texas June 15. Presenting her with the award is Dr. DeLayne Havlovic, coordinator of K-12 Career Education and Programming for Omaha Public Schools.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCJean Condon is the recipient of the 2021 Dr. Donald L. Moore Leadership Award from the Mountain-Plains Business Education Association. She was honored June 15 during the M-PBEA Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.Condon is a business and office technology instructor at Mid-Plains Community College. She is also chair of the college’s Business and Technology division.“It is very humbling to receive such an award from my colleagues,” Condon said. “Many previous recipients of this award have been my mentors and leaders of this great association. There are so many people who need to be thanked for making me a better educator.”The Dr. Donald Moore Leadership Award, which recognizes outstanding leaders within the M-PBEA, is the most prestige award that a member can receive. Recipients have provided countless hours of service toward business education on both the regional and national levels.Condon was nominated for the award by her colleagues and fellow members of the M-PBEA.“Jean is an instrumental asset to the business department,” her nomination letter reads. “In addition to supporting and growing her team, she has developed new curriculum and programs for both in-person and online/virtual formats.”Condon is credited with developing the business administration and medical coding program areas at MPCC as well as with incorporating lifelong learning opportunities for students in business and technology by creating an internship course for associate of applied science in business degree students.Condon has also helped with the development of state curriculum standards in business and technology and implemented course curriculum for a Kiewit Scholars Program, which prepares students for entry or re-entry into the workforce.“Jean works very hard to make certain her division members function as a team - encouraging communication and input from all members,” said Lorrie Mowry, MPCC accounting, business and computer science instructor. “She also strongly supports professional development to improve the teaching skills of her members.”Condon has presented at numerous regional and national conferences over the years. She is currently the M-PBEA president and previously served as the organization’s secretary, committee chair and membership director for Nebraska.Condon has been a member of the National Business Education Association for more than 25 years, the National Policies Commission for Business and Economic Education and is a longtime professional member of Phi Beta Lambda. She has also assisted with Future Business Leaders of America.

MPCC business instructor honored with leadership award

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte couple was arrested after police said a child in their care tested positive for methamphetamine.

According to police, officers were conducting a child abuse investigation when the hair follicles of a minor juvenile were tested for narcotics. Police said the testing indicated the juvenile was positive for methamphetamine and several other narcotics.

Police said investigators were made aware that, prior to the testing, the juvenile has been in the custody of Brandt Curr, 38, and Stefani Garcia, 26, both of North Platte.

Police said probable cause was established to arrest Curr and Garcia and they were taken into custody on Wednesday.

Both were jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of child abuse.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte couple was arrested after police said a child in their care tested positive for methamphetamine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624552960586.png" alt="Curr" />
 <figcaption>Curr</figcaption>
 </figure>According to police, officers were conducting a child abuse investigation when the hair follicles of a minor juvenile were tested for narcotics. Police said the testing indicated the juvenile was positive for methamphetamine and several other narcotics.Police said investigators were made aware that, prior to the testing, the juvenile has been in the custody of Brandt Curr, 38, and Stefani Garcia, 26, both of North Platte.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624552977542.png" alt="Garcia" />
 <figcaption>Garcia</figcaption>
 </figure>Police said probable cause was established to arrest Curr and Garcia and they were taken into custody on Wednesday.Both were jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center on suspicion of child abuse.&nbsp;

North Platte couple arrested after child tests positive for meth, other drugs

By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-North Platte police are investigating the death of a North Platte girl.

According to police, at around 11:55 p.m. on Wednesday, officers and North Platte Fire and Rescue responded to the report of a female, 10, who was unresponsive at a residence in the 700 block of East Philip Ave.

Police said officers arrived and immediately began life-saving efforts. Those efforts were then continued by rescue personnel.

The girl was transported to Great Plains Health, where she was pronounced deceased at 1:01 a.m.

Police said the investigation is ongoing, but preliminary information indicates that foul play is not involved.

Police extended condolences to the family and asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.&nbsp;

Statement from North Platte Public Schools

It is with great sadness that we notify you of the death of one of our students. 

 This student is identified as a 10-year-old member of North Platte Public Schools since kindergarten and has just completed her fourth-grade year at Lincoln Elementary. 

The investigation surrounding her death is ongoing; however, foul play is not suspected.&nbsp;

Licensed crisis counselors will be available for staff and students tomorrow, June 25, 2021, at Lincoln Elementary, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Please note due to FERPA; we are not sharing this student's name with anyone who is not directly involved in the active investigation. The NPPS crisis team has been deployed, and students who were friends with the student are being cared for.

Our deepest condolences go to the family and friends of this student.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624551895236.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-North Platte police are investigating the death of a North Platte girl.According to police, at around 11:55 p.m. on Wednesday, officers and North Platte Fire and Rescue responded to the report of a female, 10, who was unresponsive at a residence in the 700 block of East Philip Ave.Police said officers arrived and immediately began life-saving efforts. Those efforts were then continued by rescue personnel.The girl was transported to Great Plains Health, where she was pronounced deceased at 1:01 a.m.Police said the investigation is ongoing, but preliminary information indicates that foul play is not involved.Police extended condolences to the family and asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.&nbsp;Statement from North Platte Public SchoolsIt is with great sadness that we notify you of the death of one of our students. This student is identified as a 10-year-old member of North Platte Public Schools since kindergarten and has just completed her fourth-grade year at Lincoln Elementary. The investigation surrounding her death is ongoing; however, foul play is not suspected.&nbsp; Licensed crisis counselors will be available for staff and students tomorrow, June 25, 2021, at Lincoln Elementary, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Please note due to FERPA; we are not sharing this student's name with anyone who is not directly involved in the active investigation. The NPPS crisis team has been deployed, and students who were friends with the student are being cared for. Our deepest condolences go to the family and friends of this student.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte police investigate death of 10-year-old girl

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

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Slight risk of severe weather for North Platte area Thursday

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One of the highlights of the Nebraskaland Days celebration is the Competetive Art Show.

The show has been on display for the entire month of June at the Prairie Arts Center.

The winners were announced Tuesday at an awards reception.

2021 Nebraskaland Days Competitive Art Show at the Prairie Arts Center

People’s Choice—&nbsp;David Dorsey—Life of a cowboy

Best of Show—&nbsp;Rachel Brownlee—When you see the cows

Western—1st Place-&nbsp;&nbsp;David Dorsey the watcher

Western -2nd—Brownlee—An Uncomfortable amount of detail

Western—3rd -David Dorsey—Boots and Coffee

Wildlife-1st Place&nbsp;Rachel Brownlee-Mere Breath

Wildlife -2nd -Jim Dodds - Red House Finch

Wildlife—3rd -&nbsp;Mike Pochop -Ephemeral

Landscape-1st Place&nbsp;Kyle Hoyt– Oh Give me a Home

Landscape 2nd&nbsp; -&nbsp;Ken Hosmer—Song of the Platte

Landscape –3rd—Ron Nordyke—Quilt at Winters End

2nd&nbsp;&nbsp;- Terry Kingston—Trouble Ahead

Nebraskaland Days Honorable Mentions

1.Rachel&nbsp; Brownlee—By the Sweat of your Brow

Pieces will be on display through the end of the month, Tuesday - Saturday 11-4 pm.&nbsp; Admission is free, a free-will donation is appreciated.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FPrairieArtsCenter%2Fvideos%2F225023086123433%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624535338929.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One of the highlights of the Nebraskaland Days celebration is the Competetive Art Show.The show has been on display for the entire month of June at the Prairie Arts Center.The winners were announced Tuesday at an awards reception.2021 Nebraskaland Days Competitive Art Show at the Prairie Arts CenterJudge- Rick JohnsonPeople’s Choice—&nbsp;David Dorsey—Life of a cowboyBest of Show—&nbsp;Rachel Brownlee—When you see the cows2-DWestern—1st Place-&nbsp;&nbsp;David Dorsey the watcherWestern -2nd—Brownlee—An Uncomfortable amount of detailWestern—3rd -David Dorsey—Boots and CoffeeWildlife-1st Place&nbsp;Rachel Brownlee-Mere BreathWildlife -2nd -Jim Dodds - Red House FinchWildlife—3rd -&nbsp;Mike Pochop -EphemeralLandscape-1st Place&nbsp;Kyle Hoyt– Oh Give me a HomeLandscape 2nd&nbsp; -&nbsp;Ken Hosmer—Song of the PlatteLandscape –3rd—Ron Nordyke—Quilt at Winters EndPhotography1st -Megan Licking—He Restores my Soul2nd&nbsp;&nbsp;- Terry Kingston—Trouble Ahead3rd -&nbsp;Jim Dodds—Sound of NatureNebraskaland Days Honorable Mentions1.Rachel&nbsp; Brownlee—By the Sweat of your Brow2.David Dorsey—Life of a Cowboy3. Mike Pochop—Strength4. Mike Hinde—Mississippi5. Rachel Brownlee—Eva and Hot Toddy6. Sue Johnson—Butterfly Kisses7. David Dorsey—Hot Coffee8. Bridget Licking—Coming in Hot9. Jessica Hill—Road Trip10. Sue Perez—Tranquil Harbor11. Terry Kingston—We have Lift Off12. Sue Johnson—Through the Woods13. Brandy Jamerman—The Collection14. Ginger Wilson—Ride ‘Em Cowboy15.&nbsp; Cindy Brader—Patriot Rider16. Kyle Hoyt—Beauty from Ashes17. Jessica Hill—Eat MeatPieces will be on display through the end of the month, Tuesday - Saturday 11-4 pm.&nbsp; Admission is free, a free-will donation is appreciated.

Nebraskaland Days Competitive Art Show winners

Henry Cline, of North Platte, participates in the Calibraska Summer Arts Program Tuesday at North Platte Community College.

The program allows individuals from throughout NPCC’s service area to take classes from Los Angeles – based artists. Cline was participating in the&nbsp;<a>Special Topics: Effects Animation&nbsp;</a>class.

Among other things, he learned how to create stunning and mesmerizing special effects using primarily 2-D hand-drawn techniques.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624534865673.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>News Release NPCCHenry Cline, of North Platte, participates in the Calibraska Summer Arts Program Tuesday at North Platte Community College.The program allows individuals from throughout NPCC’s service area to take classes from Los Angeles – based artists. Cline was participating in the&nbsp;<a>Special Topics: Effects Animation&nbsp;</a>class.Among other things, he learned how to create stunning and mesmerizing special effects using primarily 2-D hand-drawn techniques.

Calibraska Summer Arts Program begins at North Platte Community College

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is defending his decision to send state patrol troopers to the U.S.-Mexico border at the request of fellow Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas. 

Ricketts also is using it as an opportunity to rail against the Biden administration. 

Ricketts has said he'll send 25 troopers to Del Rio, Texas, for deployment to last as long as 16 days. The troopers will partner with the Texas Department of Public Safety. 

It's not clear what they’ll be doing or how much the mission will cost. 

GOP-led states that have committed law enforcement agents to Texas argue the federal government isn’t doing enough to stop illegal immigration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624485606424.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is defending his decision to send state patrol troopers to the U.S.-Mexico border at the request of fellow Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas. Ricketts also is using it as an opportunity to rail against the Biden administration. Ricketts has said he'll send 25 troopers to Del Rio, Texas, for deployment to last as long as 16 days. The troopers will partner with the Texas Department of Public Safety. It's not clear what they’ll be doing or how much the mission will cost. GOP-led states that have committed law enforcement agents to Texas argue the federal government isn’t doing enough to stop illegal immigration.

Nebraska governor defends move to send troopers to Texas

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — New data released Wednesday shows that Nebraska’s unemployment rate remained one of the lowest in the country as it fell even lower in May. 

The state’s 2.6% unemployment rate tied with Vermont for the second-lowest rate in the nation, behind only New Hampshire’s 2.5% unemployment. 

Nebraska’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined in May to 2.6% from April’s 2.8% as the number of jobs in the state continued to grow. 

Nebraska's current unemployment rate is less than half of last May’s 5.4% unemployment when restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic prompted widespread layoffs and business closures.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565694644520.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — New data released Wednesday shows that Nebraska’s unemployment rate remained one of the lowest in the country as it fell even lower in May. The state’s 2.6% unemployment rate tied with Vermont for the second-lowest rate in the nation, behind only New Hampshire’s 2.5% unemployment. Nebraska’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined in May to 2.6% from April’s 2.8% as the number of jobs in the state continued to grow. Nebraska's current unemployment rate is less than half of last May’s 5.4% unemployment when restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic prompted widespread layoffs and business closures.

Nebraska unemployment ranks second in the nation in May

LINCOLN, Neb. – Visitors to six state recreation areas will be allowed to touch off fireworks on July 4. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging them to be especially careful this year.

Visitors should always use caution when lighting fireworks but should be mindful of the dry conditions that exist across the state this year and the risk of wildfire.

The areas that will permit fireworks from 8 a.m. until midnight on July 4 are Branched Oak (Liebers Point only), Fort Kearny, Memphis, Fremont Lakes, Pawnee and Wagon Train.

Signs at recreation areas will point the way to designated fireworks sites, and boundaries will be clearly marked. Use of fireworks elsewhere in state areas or at other times is prohibited.

Only fireworks approved for sale in Nebraska by the state fire marshal are permitted, and visitors must pick up expended fireworks and deposit them in appropriate containers. Minor children must be supervised when discharging fireworks. Use, possession and the discharging of fireworks is at the sole risk of the users.

A park entry permit is required for all vehicles entering state recreation areas.

<figure>
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 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Visitors to six state recreation areas will be allowed to touch off fireworks on July 4. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging them to be especially careful this year.Visitors should always use caution when lighting fireworks but should be mindful of the dry conditions that exist across the state this year and the risk of wildfire.The areas that will permit fireworks from 8 a.m. until midnight on July 4 are Branched Oak (Liebers Point only), Fort Kearny, Memphis, Fremont Lakes, Pawnee and Wagon Train.Signs at recreation areas will point the way to designated fireworks sites, and boundaries will be clearly marked. Use of fireworks elsewhere in state areas or at other times is prohibited.Only fireworks approved for sale in Nebraska by the state fire marshal are permitted, and visitors must pick up expended fireworks and deposit them in appropriate containers. Minor children must be supervised when discharging fireworks. Use, possession and the discharging of fireworks is at the sole risk of the users.A park entry permit is required for all vehicles entering state recreation areas.

Fireworks to be allowed at 6 Nebraska State Rec. Areas

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new COVID-19 cases continued to decrease in Nebraska last week, and the state currently has one of the lowest rate of new cases in the nation. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that for the past eight weeks in a row Nebraska has reported fewer virus cases than the week before. 

Data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows the state reported 168 new cases last week, which was down from 234 the week before. 

At the peak of cases last fall, Nebraska reported 16,740 new cases during the week of Nov. 20.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new COVID-19 cases continued to decrease in Nebraska last week, and the state currently has one of the lowest rate of new cases in the nation. The Omaha World-Herald reports that for the past eight weeks in a row Nebraska has reported fewer virus cases than the week before. Data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows the state reported 168 new cases last week, which was down from 234 the week before. At the peak of cases last fall, Nebraska reported 16,740 new cases during the week of Nov. 20.

Nebraska reports fewer virus cases for eighth week in a row

Fifteen Republican governors sent a letter Tuesday to the U.S. Department of Commerce urging that the U.S. Census Bureau release redistricting data as soon as possible, saying further delays would hurt efforts to redraw congressional and legislative districts.

The letter addressed to Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo said the governors recognize the difficulties associated with completing the decennial Census during the coronavirus pandemic, which has postponed release of redistricting data until mid-August.

But the letter also said the ongoing delay puts states “in a nearly impossible situation to redraw lines prior to the 2022 election cycle” in U.S. House and state legislative districts.

The governors asked that redistricting data be released this month or as soon as possible.

“Further delaying the release of redistricting data negatively impacts redistricting efforts nationwide, places state governments in an unnecessarily precarious position, and presents compounding delays in operations at every level of government,” said the letter to Raimondo, an appointee of Democratic President Joe Biden.

The Census is completed every 10 years and is essential for determining population numbers and other key demographics. Census data is used for redrawing congressional and legislative districts, determining how many congressional seats each state gets, and deciding how $1.5 trillion in federal spending is distributed each year.

As part of a settlement agreement in a lawsuit brought by the state of Ohio, the Census Bureau promised in May to release the redistricting data no later than Aug. 16 — a date it had previously picked for releasing the numbers in an older format.

Ohio sued the Commerce Secretary earlier this year after the Census Bureau said it would be unable to meet a legal deadline to release the redistricting data to the states by March 31 because of delays caused by the pandemic. The bureau said in February that the data would be available in an older format in mid-August and in a more user-friendly format by the end of September. A federal judge dismissed Ohio’s case and the state appealed, saying the delay threatened its ability to meet redistricting deadlines approved by voters and set in its state constitution.

An appellate panel later said Ohio had standing to sue the Census Bureau. It sent the case back to the lower court to come up with a solution.

Still pending is a lawsuit filed by the state of Alabama against the Census Bureau in an effort to get the statistical agency to release the redistricting data before August. Alabama’s lawsuit also challenges the bureau’s use of a statistical method that Census Bureau officials say is needed to protect participants’ privacy, but which the state says damages accuracy. A three-judge panel could issue a ruling any day.

After the redistricting data is released in August and September, the Census Bureau also plans to release other data sets derived from the 2020 census, including tables on housing, family relationships in households and the age and sex of household members in areas as small as neighborhood blocks.

Republican governors who signed the letter are Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas, Kay Ivey of Alabama, Doug Ducey of Arizona, Ron DeSantis of Florida, Brian Kemp of Georgia, Kim Reynolds of Iowa, Mike Parson of Missouri, Greg Gianforte of Montana, Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, Doug Burgum of North Dakota, Mike DeWine of Ohio, Henry McMaster of South Carolina, Bill Lee of Tennessee, Greg Abbott of Texas and Mark Gordon of Wyoming.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595949594747.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ADRIAN SAINZ-Associated PressFifteen Republican governors sent a letter Tuesday to the U.S. Department of Commerce urging that the U.S. Census Bureau release redistricting data as soon as possible, saying further delays would hurt efforts to redraw congressional and legislative districts.The letter addressed to Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo said the governors recognize the difficulties associated with completing the decennial Census during the coronavirus pandemic, which has postponed release of redistricting data until mid-August.But the letter also said the ongoing delay puts states “in a nearly impossible situation to redraw lines prior to the 2022 election cycle” in U.S. House and state legislative districts.The governors asked that redistricting data be released this month or as soon as possible.“Further delaying the release of redistricting data negatively impacts redistricting efforts nationwide, places state governments in an unnecessarily precarious position, and presents compounding delays in operations at every level of government,” said the letter to Raimondo, an appointee of Democratic President Joe Biden.The Census is completed every 10 years and is essential for determining population numbers and other key demographics. Census data is used for redrawing congressional and legislative districts, determining how many congressional seats each state gets, and deciding how $1.5 trillion in federal spending is distributed each year.As part of a settlement agreement in a lawsuit brought by the state of Ohio, the Census Bureau promised in May to release the redistricting data no later than Aug. 16 — a date it had previously picked for releasing the numbers in an older format.Ohio sued the Commerce Secretary earlier this year after the Census Bureau said it would be unable to meet a legal deadline to release the redistricting data to the states by March 31 because of delays caused by the pandemic. The bureau said in February that the data would be available in an older format in mid-August and in a more user-friendly format by the end of September. A federal judge dismissed Ohio’s case and the state appealed, saying the delay threatened its ability to meet redistricting deadlines approved by voters and set in its state constitution.An appellate panel later said Ohio had standing to sue the Census Bureau. It sent the case back to the lower court to come up with a solution.Still pending is a lawsuit filed by the state of Alabama against the Census Bureau in an effort to get the statistical agency to release the redistricting data before August. Alabama’s lawsuit also challenges the bureau’s use of a statistical method that Census Bureau officials say is needed to protect participants’ privacy, but which the state says damages accuracy. A three-judge panel could issue a ruling any day.After the redistricting data is released in August and September, the Census Bureau also plans to release other data sets derived from the 2020 census, including tables on housing, family relationships in households and the age and sex of household members in areas as small as neighborhood blocks.Republican governors who signed the letter are Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas, Kay Ivey of Alabama, Doug Ducey of Arizona, Ron DeSantis of Florida, Brian Kemp of Georgia, Kim Reynolds of Iowa, Mike Parson of Missouri, Greg Gianforte of Montana, Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, Doug Burgum of North Dakota, Mike DeWine of Ohio, Henry McMaster of South Carolina, Bill Lee of Tennessee, Greg Abbott of Texas and Mark Gordon of Wyoming.

15 GOP governors urge release of Census redistricting data

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Official with North Platte Public Schools are warning of a scam that has been targeting local businesses.

School officials said callers claiming to be a marketing firm have been contacting local businesses. The callers claim to be working with the schools to help with fundraising by adding logos to a t-shirt.

Officials said no firm has been authorized by the District, North Platte Public Schools Foundation, Activities offices, or student organizations to solicit funds on their behalf.

Officials urged businesses to use caution if they receive calls of this nature.

By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Official with North Platte Public Schools are warning of a scam that has been targeting local businesses.School officials said callers claiming to be a marketing firm have been contacting local businesses. The callers claim to be working with the schools to help with fundraising by adding logos to a t-shirt.Officials said no firm has been authorized by the District, North Platte Public Schools Foundation, Activities offices, or student organizations to solicit funds on their behalf.Officials urged businesses to use caution if they receive calls of this nature.

North Platte Schools warn businesses of scam

News Release Nebraska Game and Parks

LINCOLN, Neb. — A 24-year old Omaha man was injured in a jet ski collision at about 4 p.m. June 21 at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area in Keith County.

The man was taken to UC Health University of Colorado Hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries.

He and a 27-year-old Omaha man were driving their jet skis in the Martin Bay area of the lake near beach area No. 2 when the 27-year-old collided with the man’s jet ski, striking his leg. The man fell off and was taken to shore.

Keystone Lemoyne Fire and Rescue emergency medical services provided medical treatment at the scene. Nebraska State Patrol and Keith County Sheriff’s Office also assisted.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is investigating the incident. No citations have been issued at this time.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624407290882.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>News Release Nebraska Game and ParksLINCOLN, Neb. — A 24-year old Omaha man was injured in a jet ski collision at about 4 p.m. June 21 at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area in Keith County.The man was taken to UC Health University of Colorado Hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries.He and a 27-year-old Omaha man were driving their jet skis in the Martin Bay area of the lake near beach area No. 2 when the 27-year-old collided with the man’s jet ski, striking his leg. The man fell off and was taken to shore.Keystone Lemoyne Fire and Rescue emergency medical services provided medical treatment at the scene. Nebraska State Patrol and Keith County Sheriff’s Office also assisted.The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is investigating the incident. No citations have been issued at this time.

Omaha man injured in jet ski accident at Lake McConaughy

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota is waiting for a state Supreme Court decision on whether recreational marijuana will become legal in July. 

But state lawmakers and city governments are moving forward with their own pot plans. 

Officials statewide have warmed to the idea of legalization since voters passed a constitutional amendment in November legalizing marijuana for adults. 

Some cities want to own and operate recreational marijuana dispensaries. 

If the Supreme Court keeps the drug from being legalized, state lawmakers are planning to craft a legalization bill ahead of next year’s legislative session. 

Republican Rep. Hugh Bartels says he anticipates the Supreme Court will rule on Thursday.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota is waiting for a state Supreme Court decision on whether recreational marijuana will become legal in July. But state lawmakers and city governments are moving forward with their own pot plans. Officials statewide have warmed to the idea of legalization since voters passed a constitutional amendment in November legalizing marijuana for adults. Some cities want to own and operate recreational marijuana dispensaries. If the Supreme Court keeps the drug from being legalized, state lawmakers are planning to craft a legalization bill ahead of next year’s legislative session. Republican Rep. Hugh Bartels says he anticipates the Supreme Court will rule on Thursday.

South Dakota lawmakers, cities warm to marijuana plans

News Release Nebraska State Patrol

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested an Illinois man following multiple incidents in central Nebraska Monday evening into Tuesday.

At approximately 5:30 p.m. Monday, a trooper performed a traffic stop on a Jeep Patriot for speeding on Interstate 80 near Kearney. Shortly after the traffic stop, NSP received a report of an SUV traveling above 100 miles per hour and passing vehicles on the shoulder. The trooper was able to locate the reported vehicle, which was the same vehicle from the previous traffic stop.

The trooper attempted another traffic stop, but the vehicle accelerated and fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit. The Jeep continued to drive in a reckless manner and was approaching an area of heavy traffic. The trooper was aware of the driver’s identity and was also aware that a young child was in the vehicle, so the trooper discontinued the pursuit out of concern for public safety.

Several hours later, at approximately 10:45 p.m., NSP and Hall County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a crash and abandoned vehicle near the I-80 Interchange at mile marker 305, near Alda. The vehicle was the same Jeep that had been involved in the two prior incidents. The trooper provided a subject description to gas station attendants in the area.

Later, at approximately 2:20 a.m. Tuesday, NSP received a report of the same subjects attempting to travel by cab to a hotel in Kearney. A trooper located the cab in which they were traveling as it exited I-80 at the Kearney interchange at mile marker 272. The trooper performed a traffic stop and the cab driver exited the vehicle. The passenger, identified as the driver of the Jeep, then got into the driver’s seat and attempted to drive away. The trooper unsuccessfully deployed a taser and the subject began to drive, striking the trooper in the leg and then striking a pole in a gas station parking lot. The subject then fled on foot, but the trooper quickly apprehended him.

The subject, Nike Stevens, 26, of Chicago, Illinois, was lodged in Buffalo County Jail for assault on an officer with a motor vehicle, flight to avoid arrest, child abuse/neglect, resisting arrest, and obstruction. An adult female passenger and child were transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney for treatment of minor injuries suffered in the crash earlier in the night. The trooper was also treated for a minor leg injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611161236522.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska State PatrolTroopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested an Illinois man following multiple incidents in central Nebraska Monday evening into Tuesday.At approximately 5:30 p.m. Monday, a trooper performed a traffic stop on a Jeep Patriot for speeding on Interstate 80 near Kearney. Shortly after the traffic stop, NSP received a report of an SUV traveling above 100 miles per hour and passing vehicles on the shoulder. The trooper was able to locate the reported vehicle, which was the same vehicle from the previous traffic stop.The trooper attempted another traffic stop, but the vehicle accelerated and fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit. The Jeep continued to drive in a reckless manner and was approaching an area of heavy traffic. The trooper was aware of the driver’s identity and was also aware that a young child was in the vehicle, so the trooper discontinued the pursuit out of concern for public safety.Several hours later, at approximately 10:45 p.m., NSP and Hall County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a crash and abandoned vehicle near the I-80 Interchange at mile marker 305, near Alda. The vehicle was the same Jeep that had been involved in the two prior incidents. The trooper provided a subject description to gas station attendants in the area.Later, at approximately 2:20 a.m. Tuesday, NSP received a report of the same subjects attempting to travel by cab to a hotel in Kearney. A trooper located the cab in which they were traveling as it exited I-80 at the Kearney interchange at mile marker 272. The trooper performed a traffic stop and the cab driver exited the vehicle. The passenger, identified as the driver of the Jeep, then got into the driver’s seat and attempted to drive away. The trooper unsuccessfully deployed a taser and the subject began to drive, striking the trooper in the leg and then striking a pole in a gas station parking lot. The subject then fled on foot, but the trooper quickly apprehended him.The subject, Nike Stevens, 26, of Chicago, Illinois, was lodged in Buffalo County Jail for assault on an officer with a motor vehicle, flight to avoid arrest, child abuse/neglect, resisting arrest, and obstruction. An adult female passenger and child were transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney for treatment of minor injuries suffered in the crash earlier in the night. The trooper was also treated for a minor leg injury.

Man accused of striking trooper with car in Kearney

News Release University of Nebraska

The University of Nebraska will freeze tuition across the system and invest in strategic priorities including student aid, faculty competitiveness and building maintenance under a proposed 2021-22 operating budget announced today by President Ted Carter.

The budget, which will go before the Board of Regents on June 25, continues a multi-year plan built last year by Carter and the chancellors to address fiscal challenges created by COVID-19 while also positioning the university for long-term growth and success. The budget plan advances key pillars identified in Carter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/-/media/unca/docs/offices-and-policies/documents/strategic-plans/university-of-nebraska-five-year-strategy.pdf?la=en" target="_blank">system-wide strategic plan</a>&nbsp;related to student access and success, faculty support and resource efficiency.

Carter praised the NU chancellors and their leadership teams for what he called a bold and disciplined approach throughout the pandemic that has allowed all campuses to maintain momentum even during a challenging period.

"With this budget, the University of Nebraska is in a position of strength. We have done a remarkable job of managing the challenges in front of us while not losing sight of our priorities," Carter said.

"The budget we’re bringing forward concentrates resources in the areas that matter most: our 52,000 students, our faculty and the success of our state. It will require discipline and tough choices about our spending – yet also positions us to capitalize on this unique moment for higher education and steer the future direction of the University of Nebraska."

Carter thanked members of the Legislature and Gov. Pete Ricketts for supporting the university’s 2021-23 state appropriations request, which cleared the way for a two-year, across-the-board tuition freeze across the NU system. With the two-year freeze, all University of Nebraska campuses will remain among the most affordable institutions in their peer groups.

Additionally, the new&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/nebraska-promise" target="_blank">Nebraska Promise financial aid program</a>&nbsp;was a key driver of the university’s enrollment growth this year, particularly among underrepresented students. Nebraska Promise provides full tuition coverage for low- and middle-income Nebraska students and reached an additional 1,000 students this year who did not qualify under the university’s previous need-based financial aid program.

That enrollment growth – better than projected when Carter and the chancellors built the budget plan – provides additional flexibility for the chancellors to invest in strategic priorities.

After freezing salaries this year for non-unionized employees, the university will invest in compensation in order to remain competitive for top talent. The budget plan includes a 1.5 percent increase in the merit pool for non-unionized employees in 2021-22 and a 3 percent increase in the merit pool for 2022-23. The plan ensures that all NU employees – unionized or not – can earn 4.5 percent increases over a three-year period.

Beyond that, NU will invest $6 million in salaries at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and University of Nebraska Medical Center, where faculty lag behind their peers.

"Our faculty are among the best in the world at what they do, and it’s important that we compensate them appropriately," Carter said. "For too long we have not been able to make progress in closing the gap with our peers. Now we’re doing something about it."

Finally, the budget invests in building maintenance and renewal, part of a 40-year effort made possible by legislation this year from Sen. John Stinner of Gering to address aging infrastructure across the NU system. The legislation commits the state and university to make matching investments in deferred maintenance through 2062 in order to ensure quality spaces for student and faculty learning and working. The university recently took an initial phase of bonds to the market,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/news-and-events/news/2021/06/successful-bond-sale-yields-400-million-for-university-building-maintenance-projects" target="_blank">generating $400 million in proceeds</a>&nbsp;to begin maintenance work on all campuses.

Carter noted that the strategic investments are made possible by the university’s commitment to $43 million in self-imposed reallocations. While reallocations require difficult decisions, the process also is allowing the university to use its resources for maximum impact.

"When COVID hit, we knew we couldn’t simply hunker down and wait for this period to end. The needs of our workforce and our state are too important," Carter said. "We made a plan, we are sticking to it, and as higher education emerges from the pandemic, the University of Nebraska is in a position to lead the way forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624381352195.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release University of NebraskaThe University of Nebraska will freeze tuition across the system and invest in strategic priorities including student aid, faculty competitiveness and building maintenance under a proposed 2021-22 operating budget announced today by President Ted Carter.The budget, which will go before the Board of Regents on June 25, continues a multi-year plan built last year by Carter and the chancellors to address fiscal challenges created by COVID-19 while also positioning the university for long-term growth and success. The budget plan advances key pillars identified in Carter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/-/media/unca/docs/offices-and-policies/documents/strategic-plans/university-of-nebraska-five-year-strategy.pdf?la=en" target="_blank">system-wide strategic plan</a>&nbsp;related to student access and success, faculty support and resource efficiency.Carter praised the NU chancellors and their leadership teams for what he called a bold and disciplined approach throughout the pandemic that has allowed all campuses to maintain momentum even during a challenging period."With this budget, the University of Nebraska is in a position of strength. We have done a remarkable job of managing the challenges in front of us while not losing sight of our priorities," Carter said."The budget we’re bringing forward concentrates resources in the areas that matter most: our 52,000 students, our faculty and the success of our state. It will require discipline and tough choices about our spending – yet also positions us to capitalize on this unique moment for higher education and steer the future direction of the University of Nebraska."Carter thanked members of the Legislature and Gov. Pete Ricketts for supporting the university’s 2021-23 state appropriations request, which cleared the way for a two-year, across-the-board tuition freeze across the NU system. With the two-year freeze, all University of Nebraska campuses will remain among the most affordable institutions in their peer groups.Additionally, the new&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/nebraska-promise" target="_blank">Nebraska Promise financial aid program</a>&nbsp;was a key driver of the university’s enrollment growth this year, particularly among underrepresented students. Nebraska Promise provides full tuition coverage for low- and middle-income Nebraska students and reached an additional 1,000 students this year who did not qualify under the university’s previous need-based financial aid program.That enrollment growth – better than projected when Carter and the chancellors built the budget plan – provides additional flexibility for the chancellors to invest in strategic priorities.After freezing salaries this year for non-unionized employees, the university will invest in compensation in order to remain competitive for top talent. The budget plan includes a 1.5 percent increase in the merit pool for non-unionized employees in 2021-22 and a 3 percent increase in the merit pool for 2022-23. The plan ensures that all NU employees – unionized or not – can earn 4.5 percent increases over a three-year period.Beyond that, NU will invest $6 million in salaries at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and University of Nebraska Medical Center, where faculty lag behind their peers."Our faculty are among the best in the world at what they do, and it’s important that we compensate them appropriately," Carter said. "For too long we have not been able to make progress in closing the gap with our peers. Now we’re doing something about it."Finally, the budget invests in building maintenance and renewal, part of a 40-year effort made possible by legislation this year from Sen. John Stinner of Gering to address aging infrastructure across the NU system. The legislation commits the state and university to make matching investments in deferred maintenance through 2062 in order to ensure quality spaces for student and faculty learning and working. The university recently took an initial phase of bonds to the market,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.edu/news-and-events/news/2021/06/successful-bond-sale-yields-400-million-for-university-building-maintenance-projects" target="_blank">generating $400 million in proceeds</a>&nbsp;to begin maintenance work on all campuses.Carter noted that the strategic investments are made possible by the university’s commitment to $43 million in self-imposed reallocations. While reallocations require difficult decisions, the process also is allowing the university to use its resources for maximum impact."When COVID hit, we knew we couldn’t simply hunker down and wait for this period to end. The needs of our workforce and our state are too important," Carter said. "We made a plan, we are sticking to it, and as higher education emerges from the pandemic, the University of Nebraska is in a position to lead the way forward."

University of Nebraska announces tuition freeze across system

MCCOOK, Neb. (AP) — An 80-year-old southwestern Nebraska woman faces sentencing next month for killing her husband, though she claimed it was in response to years of abuse. 

KNOP-TV reports that Lavetta Langdon of McCook will be sentenced July 12. She pleaded no contest to manslaughter earlier this month. 

Langdon was arrested in August after police found 79-year-old Larry Langdon shot to death in his bedroom. Lavetta Langdon told investigators that her husband had struck her during a fight over money. 

Police said Lavetta Langdon then took a handgun and shot him in the chest. 

Lavetta Langdon told police she had been the victim of domestic violence for 30 years.

&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-platte-post-by-eagle/id1536439700">Download The Post app for iOs</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624375787117.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCCOOK, Neb. (AP) — An 80-year-old southwestern Nebraska woman faces sentencing next month for killing her husband, though she claimed it was in response to years of abuse. KNOP-TV reports that Lavetta Langdon of McCook will be sentenced July 12. She pleaded no contest to manslaughter earlier this month. Langdon was arrested in August after police found 79-year-old Larry Langdon shot to death in his bedroom. Lavetta Langdon told investigators that her husband had struck her during a fight over money. Police said Lavetta Langdon then took a handgun and shot him in the chest. Lavetta Langdon told police she had been the victim of domestic violence for 30 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-platte-post-by-eagle/id1536439700">Download The Post app for iOs</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/OouzxwDURKvyvMVuPpnPpjT4NyDfMrMU8SbAYH_rzoghEpSmar-3iuFagSe8Xy5crQYHobDFKwGUIN1FfOJlYSmINBjXeH3KphroGmJyUCtPea3VYY9xuobmGA00oDneeV06L0hE" alt="" />
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 </figure>

McCook woman, 80, to be sentenced in July for killing husband

KEARNEY, NE – A federal court has ordered a Kearney pizza and burger restaurant and its owner to pay $17,216 – $8,608 in back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages – to 13 workers after the U.S. Department of Labor found overtime and recordkeeping violations of the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa">Fair Labor Standards Act</a>.

U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Kopf entered the judgment and injunction against The Flippin Sweet Eateries and its owner, Jason B. Alexander and
 prohibited them permanently from future FLSA violations. The court 
entered the default judgment after the defendants failed to comply with 
court orders and respond to a complaint filed in 2019 by the department.

The department’s Wage and Hour Division
 found the restaurant wrongly classified workers as exempt from 
overtime, when they were not.&nbsp;Consequently the employer failed to pay 
employees overtime at time-and-one-half their hourly rate when they 
worked more than 40 hours in a workweek and failed to maintain accurate 
records of employees’ wages, both FLSA violations. 

“A federal court has held this employer accountable to 
complying with federal wage laws and court orders and ordered them&nbsp;to 
pay 13 workers not only their hard-earned wages, but also damages to 
help make up for the fact that they weren’t paid properly,” said Wage 
and Hour Division District Director Marcy Boldman in Des Moines, Iowa. 
“The Wage and Hour Division is committed to ensuring that all workers 
receive their rightfully earned wages and that employers abide by the 
law. Other employers should use the outcome of this case as an 
opportunity to review their own pay practices to ensure they comply.”

For more information about the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa">FLSA</a> and other laws enforced by the Wage and Hour Division, contact the division’s toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). <a href="http://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd">Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division</a>, including a <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/wow">search tool </a>to use if you think you may be owed back wages collected by the division.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615920467817.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Department of LaborKEARNEY, NE – A federal court has ordered a Kearney pizza and burger restaurant and its owner to pay $17,216 – $8,608 in back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages – to 13 workers after the U.S. Department of Labor found overtime and recordkeeping violations of the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa">Fair Labor Standards Act</a>. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Kopf entered the judgment and injunction against The Flippin Sweet Eateries and its owner, Jason B. Alexander and
 prohibited them permanently from future FLSA violations. The court 
entered the default judgment after the defendants failed to comply with 
court orders and respond to a complaint filed in 2019 by the department.The department’s Wage and Hour Division
 found the restaurant wrongly classified workers as exempt from 
overtime, when they were not.&nbsp;Consequently the employer failed to pay 
employees overtime at time-and-one-half their hourly rate when they 
worked more than 40 hours in a workweek and failed to maintain accurate 
records of employees’ wages, both FLSA violations. “A federal court has held this employer accountable to 
complying with federal wage laws and court orders and ordered them&nbsp;to 
pay 13 workers not only their hard-earned wages, but also damages to 
help make up for the fact that they weren’t paid properly,” said Wage 
and Hour Division District Director Marcy Boldman in Des Moines, Iowa. 
“The Wage and Hour Division is committed to ensuring that all workers 
receive their rightfully earned wages and that employers abide by the 
law. Other employers should use the outcome of this case as an 
opportunity to review their own pay practices to ensure they comply.”For more information about the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa">FLSA</a> and other laws enforced by the Wage and Hour Division, contact the division’s toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). <a href="http://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd">Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division</a>, including a <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/wow">search tool </a>to use if you think you may be owed back wages collected by the division.

Judge orders Kearney restaurant to pay employees back wages

Martin Luther King, Jr. once famously said that “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.&nbsp; Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.”&nbsp; For generations, Nebraskans have supported our public schools to do just this—to help build the next generation of educated and involved citizens in our state.&nbsp; To that end, our public schools have generally focused on teaching material that supports our communities, and have steered away from hot button political issues.

Here in Nebraska, the Department of Education does not report to the Governor.&nbsp; Our public schools are independently governed by local school boards with oversight from the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE).&nbsp; Unlike many other state agencies where I appoint the directors, I do not manage NDE.&nbsp; NDE is governed by the Nebraska State Board of Education, which is elected by the voters of Nebraska.&nbsp; The elected members of the board set the vision, hire the employees, and make all management decisions.

It’s in this context that I want to bring to light two major issues that are threatening to inject politics into the classroom and to steer our public schools away from their core mission.&nbsp; Right now, NDE is weighing radical sex education material and has also started promoting controversial civics material that tries to rewrite our country’s history.&nbsp; I’ll briefly comment on both issues, and share how you can take action.

First, Nebraskans have been speaking out against the proposed sex education topics in NDE’s draft health standards.&nbsp; The standards would inject non-scientific, political ideas into curriculum standards.&nbsp; That’s why I, along with many others, have called on NDE to scrap the proposed sex education topics in the standards.

It’s important to understand just how radical the draft NDE standards are.&nbsp; The standards say that first graders should be taught to define gender identity.&nbsp; Fifth graders would be educated to “explain that gender expression and gender identity exist along a spectrum.”&nbsp; At 12 years old, students would be taught about anal and oral sex when many kids that age haven’t yet reached puberty.&nbsp; This material not only sexualizes our kids, it goes far beyond basic biological facts about reproduction and clearly crosses the boundary of what’s appropriate to discuss in the classroom.

Over the last few months, hundreds of Nebraskans have testified against the standards at State Board of Education meetings.&nbsp; NDE is still taking feedback on the standards.&nbsp; You can read the standards for yourself by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.education.ne.gov/" target="_blank">www.education.ne.gov</a>.&nbsp; I encourage you to mark your calendar for their next meeting, which will be held on August 6th&nbsp;at a location that is to be announced.

The second issue confronting schools is critical race theory (CRT).&nbsp; Before I comment, I want to briefly share a definition of what this is.&nbsp; According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, it is an “intellectual movement and loosely organized framework of legal analysis based on the premise that race is not a natural, biologically grounded feature of physically distinct subgroups of human beings but a socially constructed (culturally invented) category that is used to oppress and exploit people of colour.&nbsp; Critical race theorists hold that the law and legal institutions in the United States are inherently racist insofar as they function to create and maintain social, economic, and political inequalities between whites and nonwhites, especially African Americans.”

Make no mistake: critical race theory is an attack on our country’s core values.&nbsp; The American founding is based on the idea that “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”&nbsp; While America has fallen short of this aspiration at times, we must all work together to live up to this ideal.&nbsp; The effect of CRT is to pit Americans against one another, rather than building a more perfect union that promotes the dignity of all Americans and respect for people of all backgrounds.

I am concerned that CRT ideology will be pushed in our schools.&nbsp; NDE’s website promotes the 1619 Project, a project of the New York Times that presents a revisionist history of the American founding.&nbsp; Last week after I posted a statement on social media opposing CRT, the founder of the 1619 Project responded to my statement claiming that white supremacy is a “core value” of America.&nbsp; Furthermore, NDE’s website promotes the Zinn Education Project, an organization carrying on the work of self-described socialist Howard Zinn.&nbsp; The Zinn Education Project has been a vocal opponent of states who have sought to ban CRT from being applied in K-12 public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Some have tried to say that teaching CRT is necessary to rooting out racism in our country.&nbsp; This simply isn’t true.&nbsp; CRT is a philosophy of history that is fundamentally anti-capitalist and that aims to destroy our country’s institutions.&nbsp; The ugly parts of American history should be taught and racism must be rooted out. &nbsp;Students should learn about the evils of slavery, the lynching of Will Brown, and the Tulsa Race Massacre. &nbsp;All of this can be done without CRT.&nbsp; We can do this by identifying specific instances of racism and addressing them—without tearing our country apart and pitting people against each other.&nbsp;

It’s not too late. &nbsp;The State Board of Education can take action to address both of these issues.&nbsp; It is important for parents to get involved.&nbsp; You can find the contact information for your board representative at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/stateboard/members/" target="_blank">https://www.education.ne.gov/stateboard/members/</a>.&nbsp; Local school boards can also step up and make their voices heard.&nbsp; Make sure you reach out to your school board members.

In the coming weeks, I will be hosting a series of town halls across Nebraska to talk about the proposed health education standards and the political ideology that has informed them.&nbsp; All the details about the town halls will be posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp; If you have questions about these important issues or any others, you are welcome to contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Together, we can protect our kids and help our schools get back to the basics.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsMartin Luther King, Jr. once famously said that “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.&nbsp; Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.”&nbsp; For generations, Nebraskans have supported our public schools to do just this—to help build the next generation of educated and involved citizens in our state.&nbsp; To that end, our public schools have generally focused on teaching material that supports our communities, and have steered away from hot button political issues.Here in Nebraska, the Department of Education does not report to the Governor.&nbsp; Our public schools are independently governed by local school boards with oversight from the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE).&nbsp; Unlike many other state agencies where I appoint the directors, I do not manage NDE.&nbsp; NDE is governed by the Nebraska State Board of Education, which is elected by the voters of Nebraska.&nbsp; The elected members of the board set the vision, hire the employees, and make all management decisions.It’s in this context that I want to bring to light two major issues that are threatening to inject politics into the classroom and to steer our public schools away from their core mission.&nbsp; Right now, NDE is weighing radical sex education material and has also started promoting controversial civics material that tries to rewrite our country’s history.&nbsp; I’ll briefly comment on both issues, and share how you can take action.First, Nebraskans have been speaking out against the proposed sex education topics in NDE’s draft health standards.&nbsp; The standards would inject non-scientific, political ideas into curriculum standards.&nbsp; That’s why I, along with many others, have called on NDE to scrap the proposed sex education topics in the standards.It’s important to understand just how radical the draft NDE standards are.&nbsp; The standards say that first graders should be taught to define gender identity.&nbsp; Fifth graders would be educated to “explain that gender expression and gender identity exist along a spectrum.”&nbsp; At 12 years old, students would be taught about anal and oral sex when many kids that age haven’t yet reached puberty.&nbsp; This material not only sexualizes our kids, it goes far beyond basic biological facts about reproduction and clearly crosses the boundary of what’s appropriate to discuss in the classroom.Over the last few months, hundreds of Nebraskans have testified against the standards at State Board of Education meetings.&nbsp; NDE is still taking feedback on the standards.&nbsp; You can read the standards for yourself by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.education.ne.gov/" target="_blank">www.education.ne.gov</a>.&nbsp; I encourage you to mark your calendar for their next meeting, which will be held on August 6th&nbsp;at a location that is to be announced.The second issue confronting schools is critical race theory (CRT).&nbsp; Before I comment, I want to briefly share a definition of what this is.&nbsp; According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, it is an “intellectual movement and loosely organized framework of legal analysis based on the premise that race is not a natural, biologically grounded feature of physically distinct subgroups of human beings but a socially constructed (culturally invented) category that is used to oppress and exploit people of colour.&nbsp; Critical race theorists hold that the law and legal institutions in the United States are inherently racist insofar as they function to create and maintain social, economic, and political inequalities between whites and nonwhites, especially African Americans.”Make no mistake: critical race theory is an attack on our country’s core values.&nbsp; The American founding is based on the idea that “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”&nbsp; While America has fallen short of this aspiration at times, we must all work together to live up to this ideal.&nbsp; The effect of CRT is to pit Americans against one another, rather than building a more perfect union that promotes the dignity of all Americans and respect for people of all backgrounds.I am concerned that CRT ideology will be pushed in our schools.&nbsp; NDE’s website promotes the 1619 Project, a project of the New York Times that presents a revisionist history of the American founding.&nbsp; Last week after I posted a statement on social media opposing CRT, the founder of the 1619 Project responded to my statement claiming that white supremacy is a “core value” of America.&nbsp; Furthermore, NDE’s website promotes the Zinn Education Project, an organization carrying on the work of self-described socialist Howard Zinn.&nbsp; The Zinn Education Project has been a vocal opponent of states who have sought to ban CRT from being applied in K-12 public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Some have tried to say that teaching CRT is necessary to rooting out racism in our country.&nbsp; This simply isn’t true.&nbsp; CRT is a philosophy of history that is fundamentally anti-capitalist and that aims to destroy our country’s institutions.&nbsp; The ugly parts of American history should be taught and racism must be rooted out. &nbsp;Students should learn about the evils of slavery, the lynching of Will Brown, and the Tulsa Race Massacre. &nbsp;All of this can be done without CRT.&nbsp; We can do this by identifying specific instances of racism and addressing them—without tearing our country apart and pitting people against each other.&nbsp;It’s not too late. &nbsp;The State Board of Education can take action to address both of these issues.&nbsp; It is important for parents to get involved.&nbsp; You can find the contact information for your board representative at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/stateboard/members/" target="_blank">https://www.education.ne.gov/stateboard/members/</a>.&nbsp; Local school boards can also step up and make their voices heard.&nbsp; Make sure you reach out to your school board members.In the coming weeks, I will be hosting a series of town halls across Nebraska to talk about the proposed health education standards and the political ideology that has informed them.&nbsp; All the details about the town halls will be posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp; If you have questions about these important issues or any others, you are welcome to contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Together, we can protect our kids and help our schools get back to the basics.

Ricketts: Back to the basics

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Nebraska as a whole is performing well for families with children,&nbsp;<a href="https://assets.aecf.org/m/databook/2021KCDB-profile-NE.pdf" target="_blank">ranked seventh</a>&nbsp;in the nation overall, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation's 2021 Kids Count Data Book. Families reported lower rates of food and housing insecurity and lack of health insurance than the national average. Alfonso Vaca-Lubischer, research coordinator at Voices for Children in Nebraska, pointed out, however, rates for these indicators among Nebraska's families of color were among the worst in the nation. "When it comes to, for example, African American families, we see that during the pandemic they were among the states that ranked last or almost dead last when it came to food insecurity or housing insecurity," Vaca-Lubischer observed. He said simply returning to a pre-pandemic level of support for children and families would shortchange millions of kids across the nation, and fail to address persistent racial and ethnic disparities. As policymakers look for ways to help rebuild the state's economy and get Nebraska's families safely back on their feet, Vaca-Lubischer argued solutions should be targeted to those families who have experienced the most harm. The report suggested policymakers have an opportunity to repair damage caused by the COVID-19 health emergency and also address longstanding inequities. Leslie Boissiere, vice president of external affairs for the Foundation, said permanently expanding the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021" target="_blank">Child Tax Credit</a>&nbsp;would provide families with children younger than six, $300 a month, and can reduce long-standing disparities affecting millions of families of color. "At a time when families are concerned with being able to pay their mortgage, or to pay their rent, it's a significant amount," Boissiere explained. "It's expected to raise as many as half of children who are currently living below the poverty line to living above the poverty line." During the pandemic, 17% of Nebraska households with children had little or no confidence in their ability to pay their next rent or mortgage payment, but by March of this year, that number dropped to 12%, suggesting the economy is beginning to recover.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608071469793.jpg" alt="coronavirus, corona, virus" />
 <figcaption>coronavirus, corona, virus</figcaption>
 </figure>From Nebraska News ConnectionBy Eric GalatasLINCOLN, Neb. -- Nebraska as a whole is performing well for families with children,&nbsp;<a href="https://assets.aecf.org/m/databook/2021KCDB-profile-NE.pdf" target="_blank">ranked seventh</a>&nbsp;in the nation overall, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation's 2021 Kids Count Data Book. Families reported lower rates of food and housing insecurity and lack of health insurance than the national average. Alfonso Vaca-Lubischer, research coordinator at Voices for Children in Nebraska, pointed out, however, rates for these indicators among Nebraska's families of color were among the worst in the nation. "When it comes to, for example, African American families, we see that during the pandemic they were among the states that ranked last or almost dead last when it came to food insecurity or housing insecurity," Vaca-Lubischer observed. He said simply returning to a pre-pandemic level of support for children and families would shortchange millions of kids across the nation, and fail to address persistent racial and ethnic disparities. As policymakers look for ways to help rebuild the state's economy and get Nebraska's families safely back on their feet, Vaca-Lubischer argued solutions should be targeted to those families who have experienced the most harm. The report suggested policymakers have an opportunity to repair damage caused by the COVID-19 health emergency and also address longstanding inequities. Leslie Boissiere, vice president of external affairs for the Foundation, said permanently expanding the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021" target="_blank">Child Tax Credit</a>&nbsp;would provide families with children younger than six, $300 a month, and can reduce long-standing disparities affecting millions of families of color. "At a time when families are concerned with being able to pay their mortgage, or to pay their rent, it's a significant amount," Boissiere explained. "It's expected to raise as many as half of children who are currently living below the poverty line to living above the poverty line." During the pandemic, 17% of Nebraska households with children had little or no confidence in their ability to pay their next rent or mortgage payment, but by March of this year, that number dropped to 12%, suggesting the economy is beginning to recover.

Report: Nebraska's families of color hit hardest by pandemic

From the Unites States Attorney-Omaha

OMAHA-A Hayes Center man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.

Cody D. Vancura, 27, is charged in a four-count Indictment.&nbsp; 

Count I charges Vancura with sexual exploitation of children after a prior sexual exploitation conviction on or about April 2, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 50 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $50,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; 

Count II charges the defendant with receipt and distribution of child pornography with prior conviction on or about June 12, 2020 to on or about May 12, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $35,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; 

Count III charges the defendant with transportation of child pornography with prior conviction on or about June 12, 2020 to on or about May 12, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $35,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; 

Count IV charges the defendant with possession of child pornography with prior conviction on or about May 12, 2021.&nbsp; 

The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $17,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624319549435.png" alt="Vancura (Photo: Nebraska Sex Offenders Registry)" />
 <figcaption>Vancura (Photo: Nebraska Sex Offenders Registry)</figcaption>
 </figure>From the Unites States Attorney-OmahaOMAHA-A Hayes Center man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.Cody D. Vancura, 27, is charged in a four-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Vancura with sexual exploitation of children after a prior sexual exploitation conviction on or about April 2, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 50 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $50,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges the defendant with receipt and distribution of child pornography with prior conviction on or about June 12, 2020 to on or about May 12, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $35,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; Count III charges the defendant with transportation of child pornography with prior conviction on or about June 12, 2020 to on or about May 12, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $35,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; Count IV charges the defendant with possession of child pornography with prior conviction on or about May 12, 2021.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and $17,000 additional special assessment.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;