LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers cleared the way Thursday for a new proposal that would require cities to create civilian police oversight boards in response to public outrage over the deaths of Black men in confrontations with police.

Lawmakers took the rare step of allowing Sen. Justin Wayne to introduce the new bill late in their session, when such action is normally prohibited. Senators voted 32-4 to temporarily suspend their own rules so that Wayne, of Omaha, could bring the bill.

The vote came after Wayne, who is Black, talked about his own experience being pulled over by police for a broken tail light and having a gun pointed at him in front of the fifth-graders he was driving to a basketball practice.

The measure faces an uphill battle because there are just 13 days left in the 60-day session. After the bill is introduced, lawmakers will have to schedule a committee hearing and give several days of advance notice to the public.

If the committee advances the bill, it would then need to survive three rounds of debate in the full Legislature at a time when dozens of other bills still have to be considered. It would then go to the governor.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers cleared the way Thursday for a new proposal that would require cities to create civilian police oversight boards in response to public outrage over the deaths of Black men in confrontations with police.Lawmakers took the rare step of allowing Sen. Justin Wayne to introduce the new bill late in their session, when such action is normally prohibited. Senators voted 32-4 to temporarily suspend their own rules so that Wayne, of Omaha, could bring the bill.The vote came after Wayne, who is Black, talked about his own experience being pulled over by police for a broken tail light and having a gun pointed at him in front of the fifth-graders he was driving to a basketball practice.The measure faces an uphill battle because there are just 13 days left in the 60-day session. After the bill is introduced, lawmakers will have to schedule a committee hearing and give several days of advance notice to the public.If the committee advances the bill, it would then need to survive three rounds of debate in the full Legislature at a time when dozens of other bills still have to be considered. It would then go to the governor.

Nebraska lawmakers clear the way for police oversight bill

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man has been arrested on assault charges after a disagreement on social media according to police.

According to North Platte Police on July 22 at 1:55 AM an officer responded to the area of 4th and Welch to meet with victims of a reported assault that occurred near the intersection of F and Silber.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police say the officer met with a 23-year-old male victim, a 53-year-old male victim and a witness.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It was reported that the 23-year-old victim had a text message disagreement over social media with Mason Shavlik.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police say the subjects mutually agreed to meet near F and Silber Streets to air their grievances.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to police, the 53-year-old victim and witness accompanied the 23-year-old to meet with Mason Shavlik.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police say it was reported by both victims that upon arriving at F and Silber Streets, Shavlik attacked the 23-year-old with a baseball bat.&nbsp; The 53-year-old reported he attempted to intervene and was struck in the torso and head by Mason.&nbsp; The victims and witness were able to drive away from the scene to 4th and Welch where they notified police.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police say the 23-year-old had visible injuries in the form of lacerations to the body and mouth along with swelling to the head.&nbsp; He was transported to GPH where he has since been released.&nbsp; The 53-year-old was not transported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On July 23, officers had contact with Shavlik at his residence in the 700 block of East F Street.&nbsp; He was taken into custody on suspicion 2nd-degree assault.&nbsp; Officers also spoke with an additional witness who provided more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The victims were recontacted and their version of events was inconsistent with what was initially reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police say it doesn't appear likely that a baseball bat or blunt weapon was used by Mason to assault the victims.&nbsp; Officers do have information that a firearm was possibly brandished and/or fired by a party during the disturbance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police say the investigation is still active and once this information was gathered the charges against Mason were amended to a 3rd-degree assault.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595530920980.jpeg" alt="Mason Shavlik (LCSO Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Mason Shavlik (LCSO Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A North Platte man has been arrested on assault charges after a disagreement on social media according to police.According to North Platte Police on July 22 at 1:55 AM an officer responded to the area of 4th and Welch to meet with victims of a reported assault that occurred near the intersection of F and Silber.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police say the officer met with a 23-year-old male victim, a 53-year-old male victim and a witness.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was reported that the 23-year-old victim had a text message disagreement over social media with Mason Shavlik.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police say the subjects mutually agreed to meet near F and Silber Streets to air their grievances.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to police, the 53-year-old victim and witness accompanied the 23-year-old to meet with Mason Shavlik.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police say it was reported by both victims that upon arriving at F and Silber Streets, Shavlik attacked the 23-year-old with a baseball bat.&nbsp; The 53-year-old reported he attempted to intervene and was struck in the torso and head by Mason.&nbsp; The victims and witness were able to drive away from the scene to 4th and Welch where they notified police.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police say the 23-year-old had visible injuries in the form of lacerations to the body and mouth along with swelling to the head.&nbsp; He was transported to GPH where he has since been released.&nbsp; The 53-year-old was not transported.&nbsp;&nbsp;On July 23, officers had contact with Shavlik at his residence in the 700 block of East F Street.&nbsp; He was taken into custody on suspicion 2nd-degree assault.&nbsp; Officers also spoke with an additional witness who provided more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;The victims were recontacted and their version of events was inconsistent with what was initially reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police say it doesn't appear likely that a baseball bat or blunt weapon was used by Mason to assault the victims.&nbsp; Officers do have information that a firearm was possibly brandished and/or fired by a party during the disturbance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police say the investigation is still active and once this information was gathered the charges against Mason were amended to a 3rd-degree assault.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte man accused of assaulting men over social media disagreement

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) and Custer County Sheriff’s Deputies have arrested a driver who fled from a traffic stop on foot.

At approximately 8:40 p.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed a Nissan Sentra fail to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Victoria Springs and Gates Road north of Broken Bow in Custer County.

During the traffic stop, a Custer County Sheriff’s Office K9 detected the odor of a controlled substance in the vehicle. As troopers performed a search of the vehicle, the driver fled on foot into a cornfield. A passenger in the vehicle remained at the scene.

The Custer County K9 and an NSP K9 performed a track of the subject and were able to locate the subject in a nearby river less than an hour later. The subject, Jacob Funson, 22, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was taken into custody without further incident. The search of the vehicle revealed less than one pound of marijuana, THC edibles and shatter, and a handgun.

Funson was arrested for fleeing to avoid arrest, obstructing a peace officer, possession of marijuana – over an ounce and less than a pound, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a controlled substance. Funson was lodged in Custer County Jail. The passenger was cited and released.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) and Custer County Sheriff’s Deputies have arrested a driver who fled from a traffic stop on foot.At approximately 8:40 p.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed a Nissan Sentra fail to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Victoria Springs and Gates Road north of Broken Bow in Custer County.During the traffic stop, a Custer County Sheriff’s Office K9 detected the odor of a controlled substance in the vehicle. As troopers performed a search of the vehicle, the driver fled on foot into a cornfield. A passenger in the vehicle remained at the scene.The Custer County K9 and an NSP K9 performed a track of the subject and were able to locate the subject in a nearby river less than an hour later. The subject, Jacob Funson, 22, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was taken into custody without further incident. The search of the vehicle revealed less than one pound of marijuana, THC edibles and shatter, and a handgun.Funson was arrested for fleeing to avoid arrest, obstructing a peace officer, possession of marijuana – over an ounce and less than a pound, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a controlled substance. Funson was lodged in Custer County Jail. The passenger was cited and released.

NSP K9s track subject who fled on foot from traffic stop near Broken Bow

Midwest Championship Fighting is back with the St. Paddy's Beatdown Bash slated to go down at the Wild West Arena on August 20, 2020. Scotty C. chats with MCF owner/promoter Russ Jones about the event. Follow MCF on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCFMMA/">facebook.com/MCFMMA</a>.

Midwest Championship Fighting is back with the St. Paddy's Beatdown Bash slated to go down at the Wild West Arena on August 20, 2020. Scotty C. chats with MCF owner/promoter Russ Jones about the event. Follow MCF on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCFMMA/">facebook.com/MCFMMA</a>.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: MCF St. Paddy's Beatdown Remixed at the Wild West Arena" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/u242u-e4378b?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=0&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=1&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div><figure>
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🎙 Post Podcast: MCF St. Paddy's Beatdown Bash Remixed at the Wild West Arena

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Union Pacific's second-quarter profit fell 28% from a year ago as carload revenue tumbled in the coronavirus pandemic.

The railroad expects improvement in the second half with full-year carload volumes to be down around 10% compared with 2019, assuming there isn't a second wave of virus-related economic shutdowns.

CEO Lance Fritz said he expects freight volumes to be down 9% to 10% in the second half as businesses continue to recover. "We're growing our optimism here in the near term," he said.

Union Pacific made $1.13 billion from April through June, or $1.67 per share, beating Wall Street estimates. Analysts polled by FactSet expected earnings of $1.56 per share. Revenue of $4.24 billion was down 24% for the period, slightly below Wall Street projections.

In the second quarter big freight users such as automakers were forced to close their factories for weeks in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.

As a result, Union Pacific's freight revenue fell as pricing gains were offset by lower volumes and decreased revenue from fuel surcharges, the company said Wednesday in a prepared statement.

"We've never experienced such a steep and deep decline in our carloads," Fritz said in an interview. "We've really climbed out pretty steadily since, call it early May, which is really encouraging."

The number of rail cars generating revenue tumbled 20% for the quarter, led by a 64% drop-off in the auto sector. Coal fell 24%, while industrial chemicals and plastics were down 10%. Metals and minerals were off 19%. Empty cars transported by the railroad don't generate revenue.

Company executives said freight volume is recovering enough for them to start recalling furloughed employees. But Fritz said that due to productivity gains such as running fewer trains that are longer, Union Pacific won't need as many workers as it did before the pandemic began.

The railroad is getting more engineering work done with fewer people, it's using fewer locomotives, and fewer cars are needed because they're traveling more miles per day, he said. The number of trains also has decreased, he said.

"You put that all together, there's no doubt that when we recover fully and start growing from last year, it's going to be done with fewer people than we had last year," he said.

The railroad has cut about 22% of its workforce in the past year and now has about 30,000 full-time workers, which Fritz said will still grow as freight volumes increase.

The railroad's customers see spotty, slow recoveries, but no significant shutdown like the country went through in March and April, Fritz said. "Given the fact that there is some pent-up demand and there is some restocking that needs to occur, it feels to us like sequentially for sure things are getting better," he said.

Shares in the railroad, which operates 32,400 miles (52,143 kilometers) of track in 23 Western states, fell 3.2% to $173.75 in afternoon trading.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Union Pacific's second-quarter profit fell 28% from a year ago as carload revenue tumbled in the coronavirus pandemic.The railroad expects improvement in the second half with full-year carload volumes to be down around 10% compared with 2019, assuming there isn't a second wave of virus-related economic shutdowns.CEO Lance Fritz said he expects freight volumes to be down 9% to 10% in the second half as businesses continue to recover. "We're growing our optimism here in the near term," he said.Union Pacific made $1.13 billion from April through June, or $1.67 per share, beating Wall Street estimates. Analysts polled by FactSet expected earnings of $1.56 per share. Revenue of $4.24 billion was down 24% for the period, slightly below Wall Street projections.In the second quarter big freight users such as automakers were forced to close their factories for weeks in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.As a result, Union Pacific's freight revenue fell as pricing gains were offset by lower volumes and decreased revenue from fuel surcharges, the company said Wednesday in a prepared statement."We've never experienced such a steep and deep decline in our carloads," Fritz said in an interview. "We've really climbed out pretty steadily since, call it early May, which is really encouraging."The number of rail cars generating revenue tumbled 20% for the quarter, led by a 64% drop-off in the auto sector. Coal fell 24%, while industrial chemicals and plastics were down 10%. Metals and minerals were off 19%. Empty cars transported by the railroad don't generate revenue.Company executives said freight volume is recovering enough for them to start recalling furloughed employees. But Fritz said that due to productivity gains such as running fewer trains that are longer, Union Pacific won't need as many workers as it did before the pandemic began.The railroad is getting more engineering work done with fewer people, it's using fewer locomotives, and fewer cars are needed because they're traveling more miles per day, he said. The number of trains also has decreased, he said."You put that all together, there's no doubt that when we recover fully and start growing from last year, it's going to be done with fewer people than we had last year," he said.The railroad has cut about 22% of its workforce in the past year and now has about 30,000 full-time workers, which Fritz said will still grow as freight volumes increase.The railroad's customers see spotty, slow recoveries, but no significant shutdown like the country went through in March and April, Fritz said. "Given the fact that there is some pent-up demand and there is some restocking that needs to occur, it feels to us like sequentially for sure things are getting better," he said.Shares in the railroad, which operates 32,400 miles (52,143 kilometers) of track in 23 Western states, fell 3.2% to $173.75 in afternoon trading.

Pandemic grips commerce and hits railroader Union Pacific

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A study released Wednesday by the U.S. Agriculture Department into the disparity between cattle prices paid to ranchers and the higher prices earned by meat processors offers more details about the factors that have led to the situation.

The 20-page analysis by the USDA explains how after a 2019 fire at a Tyson Foods beef plant in Holcomb, Kansas, and this year’s temporary closure of slaughterhouses amid the coronavirus pandemic, ranchers saw cattle prices drop while concerns about meat scarcity caused prices at grocery stores to rise.

Some members of Congress have called for an investigation into possible violations of the Packers and Stockyard Act, which is designed to protect ranchers and consumers. They have noted increasing consolidation within the beef industry, which now is largely controlled by four giant processing companies.

The study specified that it wasn’t an examination of potential violations of the Packers and Stockyard Act but that an investigation was ongoing.

South Dakota Sen. John Thune, who was among those seeking an investigation, said he would continue pushing for the Department of Justice to finish its investigation of possible market manipulation.

“South Dakota’s cattle producers are facing extreme volatility in the cattle market, and I remain concerned about potential anticompetitive activity in the highly concentrated meatpacking industry.” Thune said in a statement.

Nebraska Sen. Deb Fischer, whose family owns a ranch, also has sought an investigation.

“The report confirms our serious misgivings about the many factors that are working to destabilize the marketplace,” Fischer said. “In light of these events and this report, I will be introducing legislation soon in the Senate aimed at providing equity and transparency for all market participants.”

The study details how both the Kansas fire and the coronavirus caused backups in the processing industry, which in turn caused demand for cattle to drop and prices to decline. At the same time, consumer demand continued and even increased amid supply concerns when the coronavirus led to an emptying of grocery shelves.

Although the study focused on documenting the price disparities, it also finds that the situation could benefit from more clearly disseminating market conditions and reinvigorating competition.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A study released Wednesday by the U.S. Agriculture Department into the disparity between cattle prices paid to ranchers and the higher prices earned by meat processors offers more details about the factors that have led to the situation.The 20-page analysis by the USDA explains how after a 2019 fire at a Tyson Foods beef plant in Holcomb, Kansas, and this year’s temporary closure of slaughterhouses amid the coronavirus pandemic, ranchers saw cattle prices drop while concerns about meat scarcity caused prices at grocery stores to rise.Some members of Congress have called for an investigation into possible violations of the Packers and Stockyard Act, which is designed to protect ranchers and consumers. They have noted increasing consolidation within the beef industry, which now is largely controlled by four giant processing companies.ADVERTISEMENTThe study specified that it wasn’t an examination of potential violations of the Packers and Stockyard Act but that an investigation was ongoing.South Dakota Sen. John Thune, who was among those seeking an investigation, said he would continue pushing for the Department of Justice to finish its investigation of possible market manipulation.“South Dakota’s cattle producers are facing extreme volatility in the cattle market, and I remain concerned about potential anticompetitive activity in the highly concentrated meatpacking industry.” Thune said in a statement.Nebraska Sen. Deb Fischer, whose family owns a ranch, also has sought an investigation.“The report confirms our serious misgivings about the many factors that are working to destabilize the marketplace,” Fischer said. “In light of these events and this report, I will be introducing legislation soon in the Senate aimed at providing equity and transparency for all market participants.”The study details how both the Kansas fire and the coronavirus caused backups in the processing industry, which in turn caused demand for cattle to drop and prices to decline. At the same time, consumer demand continued and even increased amid supply concerns when the coronavirus led to an emptying of grocery shelves.Although the study focused on documenting the price disparities, it also finds that the situation could benefit from more clearly disseminating market conditions and reinvigorating competition.

USDA study shows gulf between cattle, processed beef prices

Heat Advisory in effect today through Saturday

LINCOLN, Neb. – Hunters of migratory birds are reminded of their requirement to register for the Harvest Information Program (HIP) beginning Aug. 1.

HIP registration is required of residents age 16 and older and all nonresidents who plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Aug. 1, 2020 and July 31, 2021. These birds are doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock. Among those who must register in Nebraska are hunters registered in another state and holders of lifetime, 64-and-over veteran, and 69-and-over senior permits.

Registration is free and easy. You can register online 24 hours a day at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjIuMjQ3NDI5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISVAvIn0.WHr1PtK0NUdmULZyyXcibkQnNktUlqZTJWIbJWQb9sk/s/497221905/br/81369974298-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP</a>&nbsp;or call your nearest Nebraska Game and Parks Commission district office or service center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A HIP number, which must be carried while hunting, will be assigned to each registrant.

HIP, which is required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory birds harvested each year. Those estimates help biologists set limits and seasons.

Hunt permits may be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjIuMjQ3NDI5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.CpTAAoOkl6FAQuSKrwpOPYOvRvfcS1I5pUIVu3ikyKA/s/497221905/br/81369974298-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Hunters of migratory birds are reminded of their requirement to register for the Harvest Information Program (HIP) beginning Aug. 1.HIP registration is required of residents age 16 and older and all nonresidents who plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Aug. 1, 2020 and July 31, 2021. These birds are doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock. Among those who must register in Nebraska are hunters registered in another state and holders of lifetime, 64-and-over veteran, and 69-and-over senior permits.Registration is free and easy. You can register online 24 hours a day at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjIuMjQ3NDI5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISVAvIn0.WHr1PtK0NUdmULZyyXcibkQnNktUlqZTJWIbJWQb9sk/s/497221905/br/81369974298-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP</a>&nbsp;or call your nearest Nebraska Game and Parks Commission district office or service center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A HIP number, which must be carried while hunting, will be assigned to each registrant.HIP, which is required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory birds harvested each year. Those estimates help biologists set limits and seasons.Hunt permits may be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjIuMjQ3NDI5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.CpTAAoOkl6FAQuSKrwpOPYOvRvfcS1I5pUIVu3ikyKA/s/497221905/br/81369974298-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Migratory bird hunters must register for HIP

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595464694308.png" alt="This information provided by the North Platte Police Department" />
 <figcaption>This information provided by the North Platte Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte Police Call Log (July 21-22, 2020)

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A Democratic U.S. Senate candidate in Nebraska doubled down Wednesday on his promise to stay in the race, despite growing pressure to drop out after he sent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/db5b8e0b714d76827262eb0381574312" target="_blank">sexually vulgar</a>&nbsp;text messages to a campaign staffer.

Chris Janicek said in a statement that he won't withdraw from the race, and he blamed the state's top Democratic leaders for the party's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2da07dc4abad3da8b59091d1d6ebe503" target="_blank">recent struggles</a>&nbsp;to win statewide office in Republican-dominated Nebraska. His comments came just days after the Nebraska Democratic Party endorsed one of Janicek's former primary opponents, Alisha Shelton, to try to unseat Republican U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse.

The endorsement won't necessarily stop Janicek, however, because he already won the Democratic nomination in May. State law doesn't allow party officials to remove him from the ballot without his consent.

"I am a proud Democrat," Janicek said in a Facebook posting and email sent to local news outlets. "Now is the time for you to realize that I am not going away."

Janicek has faced widespread criticism and pressure to withdraw ever since a campaign worker revealed the offensive text message to party officials and hired a lawyer.

The messages show that, after he won the nomination, Janicek wrote in a group text to campaign workers that he had gotten into an argument with the female staffer. He then asked whether the campaign should spend money on "getting her laid," and made crude references to group sex. The woman who was the target of his remarks was accidentally included on the text.

Janicek later admitted to sending the texts and said he repeatedly apologized to the woman. He has argued that, because he's openly gay, his comments shouldn't count as sexual harassment.

Nebraska Democratic Party Chairwoman Jane Kleeb has repeatedly called on Janicek bow out of the race and said the party won't offer any of its resources to his campaign. Even before the scandal, Janicek, who owns an Omaha cupcake bakery, wasn't likely to win because of the state's GOP leanings.

Janicek criticized Kleeb's management of the party, noting that the number of self-identified Democrats in Nebraska has slipped to a record-low 29% of registered voters. He said the party is "drowning in debt" and hasn't won a governor's race since Ben Nelson, who left office in 1999.

"When the party says they offer resources, I'd like to know what they are because our campaign hasn't seen any," he said in the statement.

A Nebraska Democratic Party spokesman declined to respond to Janicek's criticism, saying Kleeb stands by her original statement calling for him to withdraw.

Janicek's posting on Facebook drew a barrage of negative comments and calls for him to drop out of the race so that Shelton can become the nominee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595464440059.png" alt="Chris Janicek" />
 <figcaption>Chris Janicek</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A Democratic U.S. Senate candidate in Nebraska doubled down Wednesday on his promise to stay in the race, despite growing pressure to drop out after he sent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/db5b8e0b714d76827262eb0381574312" target="_blank">sexually vulgar</a>&nbsp;text messages to a campaign staffer.Chris Janicek said in a statement that he won't withdraw from the race, and he blamed the state's top Democratic leaders for the party's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2da07dc4abad3da8b59091d1d6ebe503" target="_blank">recent struggles</a>&nbsp;to win statewide office in Republican-dominated Nebraska. His comments came just days after the Nebraska Democratic Party endorsed one of Janicek's former primary opponents, Alisha Shelton, to try to unseat Republican U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse.The endorsement won't necessarily stop Janicek, however, because he already won the Democratic nomination in May. State law doesn't allow party officials to remove him from the ballot without his consent."I am a proud Democrat," Janicek said in a Facebook posting and email sent to local news outlets. "Now is the time for you to realize that I am not going away."Janicek has faced widespread criticism and pressure to withdraw ever since a campaign worker revealed the offensive text message to party officials and hired a lawyer.The messages show that, after he won the nomination, Janicek wrote in a group text to campaign workers that he had gotten into an argument with the female staffer. He then asked whether the campaign should spend money on "getting her laid," and made crude references to group sex. The woman who was the target of his remarks was accidentally included on the text.Janicek later admitted to sending the texts and said he repeatedly apologized to the woman. He has argued that, because he's openly gay, his comments shouldn't count as sexual harassment.Nebraska Democratic Party Chairwoman Jane Kleeb has repeatedly called on Janicek bow out of the race and said the party won't offer any of its resources to his campaign. Even before the scandal, Janicek, who owns an Omaha cupcake bakery, wasn't likely to win because of the state's GOP leanings.Janicek criticized Kleeb's management of the party, noting that the number of self-identified Democrats in Nebraska has slipped to a record-low 29% of registered voters. He said the party is "drowning in debt" and hasn't won a governor's race since Ben Nelson, who left office in 1999."When the party says they offer resources, I'd like to know what they are because our campaign hasn't seen any," he said in the statement.A Nebraska Democratic Party spokesman declined to respond to Janicek's criticism, saying Kleeb stands by her original statement calling for him to withdraw.Janicek's posting on Facebook drew a barrage of negative comments and calls for him to drop out of the race so that Shelton can become the nominee.

Nebraska Senate hopeful who sent vulgar texts declines exit

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Attempts to lower Nebraska's property taxes appeared to stumble yet again Wednesday after some state lawmakers argued that the newest package could hurt local K-12 schools by restricting their ability to tax.

Senators debated the bill for about three hours but ended up skipping over it without a vote, leaving its prospects unclear. The only way it's likely to return to the Legislature's agenda now is if leading supporters can show they have at least 33 votes to overcome a filibuster, a tall order given the opposition to the bill.

"It appears to me that we are heading toward an impasse," said Sen. Matt Williams, of Gothenburg. "If that horse can't finish the race, we need to saddle up a horse that can finish the race."

The proposal would substantially boost state funding for Nebraska's K-12 public schools, which are by far the largest consumers of property tax revenue.

Farmers, ranchers and homeowners argue that rising property valuations have shifted an ever-larger share of the cost onto their shoulders, especially in rural areas with huge swaths of agricultural land. Increasing state aid is designed to ease that burden.

The bill would also tighten restrictions on how much revenue school districts can generate locally through property taxes, drawing objections from school officials and teachers. School administrators have said they don't trust state officials to maintain their funding commitments, given the Legislature's history of belt-tightening to balance its budget in lean times.

"I don't think we have the money for this bill, and the money has to come from somewhere," said Sen. Wendy DeBoer, of Bennington, who led the filibuster. "I care about property tax relief, but I'm not going to do it on the backs of our students."

Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who drafted the bill as chairwoman of the Legislature's Revenue Committee, said lawmakers need to pass it this year. She said home- and business owners in the state's biggest cities are starting to feel the pinch as well as their property values rise, leading to higher tax bills.

"If we do nothing, if we don't address this, this problem gets worse and worse," said Linehan, of Omaha.

Sen. Tom Briese, an Albion farmer, said property taxes continue to be the most pressing issue raised by constituents in his overwhelmingly rural district, and he criticized fellow lawmakers for failing to pass the bill.

"If everyday Nebraskans could vote on this, it would pass overwhelmingly," he said. "But instead we're doing it, and we're doing it with lobbyists and special interests in our ear."

The bill faced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2d284c9afb24472451ba53a2e46f646c" target="_blank">uncertain prospects</a>&nbsp;even before the coronavirus pandemic threatened the state budget, leaving some lawmakers wary about spending more money.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Attempts to lower Nebraska's property taxes appeared to stumble yet again Wednesday after some state lawmakers argued that the newest package could hurt local K-12 schools by restricting their ability to tax.Senators debated the bill for about three hours but ended up skipping over it without a vote, leaving its prospects unclear. The only way it's likely to return to the Legislature's agenda now is if leading supporters can show they have at least 33 votes to overcome a filibuster, a tall order given the opposition to the bill."It appears to me that we are heading toward an impasse," said Sen. Matt Williams, of Gothenburg. "If that horse can't finish the race, we need to saddle up a horse that can finish the race."The proposal would substantially boost state funding for Nebraska's K-12 public schools, which are by far the largest consumers of property tax revenue.Farmers, ranchers and homeowners argue that rising property valuations have shifted an ever-larger share of the cost onto their shoulders, especially in rural areas with huge swaths of agricultural land. Increasing state aid is designed to ease that burden.The bill would also tighten restrictions on how much revenue school districts can generate locally through property taxes, drawing objections from school officials and teachers. School administrators have said they don't trust state officials to maintain their funding commitments, given the Legislature's history of belt-tightening to balance its budget in lean times."I don't think we have the money for this bill, and the money has to come from somewhere," said Sen. Wendy DeBoer, of Bennington, who led the filibuster. "I care about property tax relief, but I'm not going to do it on the backs of our students."Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who drafted the bill as chairwoman of the Legislature's Revenue Committee, said lawmakers need to pass it this year. She said home- and business owners in the state's biggest cities are starting to feel the pinch as well as their property values rise, leading to higher tax bills."If we do nothing, if we don't address this, this problem gets worse and worse," said Linehan, of Omaha.Sen. Tom Briese, an Albion farmer, said property taxes continue to be the most pressing issue raised by constituents in his overwhelmingly rural district, and he criticized fellow lawmakers for failing to pass the bill."If everyday Nebraskans could vote on this, it would pass overwhelmingly," he said. "But instead we're doing it, and we're doing it with lobbyists and special interests in our ear."The bill faced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2d284c9afb24472451ba53a2e46f646c" target="_blank">uncertain prospects</a>&nbsp;even before the coronavirus pandemic threatened the state budget, leaving some lawmakers wary about spending more money.

Property tax measure hits new roadblock in Nebraska

On the heels of the State Auditors Report with regard to the Nebraska State Fair, we want to assure the donors, members and supporters of the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation that your investment in the 1868 Foundation is secure.

“The 1868 Foundation is a completely separate and distinct entity from the Nebraska State Fair, with a completely separate Board of Directors, completely separate financial accounts and robust accounting practices to keep each of your donations safe and sound,” said Lindsey Koepke, Executive Director.

Rest assured that the 1868 Foundation has always had solid financial controls and accounting practices in place and we will always do what is right by your investment with the 1868 Foundation. &nbsp;“We are grateful for your continued support for the 1868 Foundation and promise to make sure that your investment in the future of your Nebraska State Fair is one that you can be proud of.”

The Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation is a proud charitable 501(C)3 organization whose mission is to raise funds for the future of your Nebraska State Fair. &nbsp;For more information on the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1868foundation.org/" target="_blank">1868foundation.org</a>.

News ReleaseOn the heels of the State Auditors Report with regard to the Nebraska State Fair, we want to assure the donors, members and supporters of the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation that your investment in the 1868 Foundation is secure.“The 1868 Foundation is a completely separate and distinct entity from the Nebraska State Fair, with a completely separate Board of Directors, completely separate financial accounts and robust accounting practices to keep each of your donations safe and sound,” said Lindsey Koepke, Executive Director.Rest assured that the 1868 Foundation has always had solid financial controls and accounting practices in place and we will always do what is right by your investment with the 1868 Foundation. &nbsp;“We are grateful for your continued support for the 1868 Foundation and promise to make sure that your investment in the future of your Nebraska State Fair is one that you can be proud of.”The Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation is a proud charitable 501(C)3 organization whose mission is to raise funds for the future of your Nebraska State Fair. &nbsp;For more information on the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1868foundation.org/" target="_blank">1868foundation.org</a>.

Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation, responds to State Auditor’s Report

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has seen a surge of people testing positive for coronavirus this week, according to state health officials.

The state health department's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday showed more than 600 new cases of the virus since the beginning of the week, including 264 cases on Monday and 343 on Tuesday. The state's total stood at 23,190 by Wednesday. The site also shows nine COVID-19 deaths so far this week, bringing the state's total to 310 since the outbreak began.

The increases come as at least one Omaha-area health system reported a testing policy change in the face of testing supply shortages. CHI Health announced Tuesday it would suspend its policy of testing patients for the virus ahead of elective procedures.

The system said Abbott Laboratories, which manufactures the supplies CHI Health uses for coronavirus testing, can't meet current demand for the supplies and informed CHI that it would limit shipment of those supplies over then next four to five weeks.

"By suspending pre-procedural tests, we are able to preserve tests for people experiencing symptoms in the communities we serve," CHI Health said in a news release.

CHI Health centers will continue to perform elective surgeries, despite the suspension in pre-procedure testing.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has seen a surge of people testing positive for coronavirus this week, according to state health officials.The state health department's&nbsp;<a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ece0db09da4d4ca68252c3967aa1e9dd" target="_blank">online virus tracker</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday showed more than 600 new cases of the virus since the beginning of the week, including 264 cases on Monday and 343 on Tuesday. The state's total stood at 23,190 by Wednesday. The site also shows nine COVID-19 deaths so far this week, bringing the state's total to 310 since the outbreak began.The increases come as at least one Omaha-area health system reported a testing policy change in the face of testing supply shortages. CHI Health announced Tuesday it would suspend its policy of testing patients for the virus ahead of elective procedures.The system said Abbott Laboratories, which manufactures the supplies CHI Health uses for coronavirus testing, can't meet current demand for the supplies and informed CHI that it would limit shipment of those supplies over then next four to five weeks."By suspending pre-procedural tests, we are able to preserve tests for people experiencing symptoms in the communities we serve," CHI Health said in a news release.CHI Health centers will continue to perform elective surgeries, despite the suspension in pre-procedure testing.

Nebraska sees surge in positive coronavirus cases this week

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-If you are needing transportation services on August 1, and you typically use North Platte Public Transit, you'll want to make alternative plans.

City officials say Public Transit will be closed on Saturday, August 1, 2020 for training. 

There will be no bus service on this day. 

Public transit will be open on Monday, August 3, 2020, with normal hours – from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

For more information call the business office at (308) 535-8560 or to schedule a ride call the dispatcher at (308) 532-1370.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-If you are needing transportation services on August 1, and you typically use North Platte Public Transit, you'll want to make alternative plans.City officials say Public Transit will be closed on Saturday, August 1, 2020 for training. There will be no bus service on this day. Public transit will be open on Monday, August 3, 2020, with normal hours – from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information call the business office at (308) 535-8560 or to schedule a ride call the dispatcher at (308) 532-1370.

North Platte Public Transit closed for training August 1

GERING, Neb. — The slithering reptiles of Nebraska will be the focus of an online educational event Thursday, July 30, hosted by the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.

Dennis Ferraro, herpetologist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will present Snakes of Nebraska at 6:30 p.m. MDT (7:30 p.m. CDT) via the online meeting platform Zoom. Ferraro will show live specimens and discuss some of Nebraska’s 29 native snake species.

Pre-registration is required. The link to the event, which also may be found at the Nebraska Panhandle Parks Facebook page, is&nbsp;<a href="http://fal.cn/SnakesOfNebraska" target="_blank">fal.cn/SnakesOfNebraska</a>. Upon registering, participants will receive a confirmation email with the meeting’s login information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595430437001.png" alt="Prairie rattlesnake. (Photo National Parks Service)" />
 <figcaption>Prairie rattlesnake. (Photo National Parks Service)</figcaption>
 </figure>GERING, Neb. — The slithering reptiles of Nebraska will be the focus of an online educational event Thursday, July 30, hosted by the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.Dennis Ferraro, herpetologist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will present Snakes of Nebraska at 6:30 p.m. MDT (7:30 p.m. CDT) via the online meeting platform Zoom. Ferraro will show live specimens and discuss some of Nebraska’s 29 native snake species.Pre-registration is required. The link to the event, which also may be found at the Nebraska Panhandle Parks Facebook page, is&nbsp;<a href="http://fal.cn/SnakesOfNebraska" target="_blank">fal.cn/SnakesOfNebraska</a>. Upon registering, participants will receive a confirmation email with the meeting’s login information.

Snakes of Nebraska 'Zooming' to the Public

NEW YORK (AP) —Walmart Inc. said that it will be closing its namesake stores and Sam’s Clubs on Thanksgiving Day this year, saying that it wants to have its employees spend time with their families during the coronavirus.

The move, announced Tuesday, marks the first major indication of how COVID will affect Black Friday store shopping, which for almost a decade kicked off with big crowds on the turkey feast and expanded into Friday. However, given safety concerns, stores are rethinking their plans for the kickoff.

Given Walmart’s clout as the nation’s largest retailer, other major retailers could follow its lead. Macy’s CEO Jeff Gennette said earlier this month that the department store will be pivoting its Black Friday business more toward online and will likely be going “full force” with holiday marketing right after Halloween. It also will be staggering events to reduce customer traffic in the stores.

Walmart also said Tuesday that it will be giving out another round of bonuses for workers on the front lines of the coronavirus. The company said that it will be doling out $300 for full-time hourly workers and $150 for part-time hourly and temporary workers. Drivers, managers and assistant managers in stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers and health and wellness will also receive a bonus. It will add up to approximately $428 million, Walmart said.

The bonuses will be included in Aug. 20 paychecks for eligible workers employed as of July 31.

“Our associates have been working at an incredible pace, they’ve solved problems, and they’ve set an amazing example for others,” said John Furner, president and CEO of Walmart U.S., in a corporate blog post. “To further appreciate their incredible work, we are pleased to share another special cash bonus this summer.”

Walmart and others have been under increasing pressure by labor-backed groups to extend bonus pay for front line workers as surges in new cases have spiked in many states.

NEW YORK (AP) —Walmart Inc. said that it will be closing its namesake stores and Sam’s Clubs on Thanksgiving Day this year, saying that it wants to have its employees spend time with their families during the coronavirus.The move, announced Tuesday, marks the first major indication of how COVID will affect Black Friday store shopping, which for almost a decade kicked off with big crowds on the turkey feast and expanded into Friday. However, given safety concerns, stores are rethinking their plans for the kickoff.Given Walmart’s clout as the nation’s largest retailer, other major retailers could follow its lead. Macy’s CEO Jeff Gennette said earlier this month that the department store will be pivoting its Black Friday business more toward online and will likely be going “full force” with holiday marketing right after Halloween. It also will be staggering events to reduce customer traffic in the stores.ADVERTISEMENTWalmart also said Tuesday that it will be giving out another round of bonuses for workers on the front lines of the coronavirus. The company said that it will be doling out $300 for full-time hourly workers and $150 for part-time hourly and temporary workers. Drivers, managers and assistant managers in stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers and health and wellness will also receive a bonus. It will add up to approximately $428 million, Walmart said.The bonuses will be included in Aug. 20 paychecks for eligible workers employed as of July 31.“Our associates have been working at an incredible pace, they’ve solved problems, and they’ve set an amazing example for others,” said John Furner, president and CEO of Walmart U.S., in a corporate blog post. “To further appreciate their incredible work, we are pleased to share another special cash bonus this summer.”Walmart and others have been under increasing pressure by labor-backed groups to extend bonus pay for front line workers as surges in new cases have spiked in many states.

Walmart to close on Thanksgiving Day

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has launched an outdoor discovery adventure at its Venture Parks system, a network of four parks nestled in the Platte River Valley between Omaha and Lincoln.

This adventure was designed to take participants to all four parks — Eugene T. Mahoney and Platte River state parks and Louisville and Schramm Park state recreation areas — to discover six of their unique gems and find the answers to clues revealed in the app.&nbsp;

Participants will need to download the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25ld3Nyb29tLmdlb2NhY2hpbmcuY29tL2FkdmVudHVyZS1sYWIifQ.m2fHndVI_9DmmKhx7qBZ4U-LPCQGgr6CU-4tQnvo0IY/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">Geocaching Adventure Lab</a>&nbsp;mobile app to access coordinates to the six parks’ gems. Users should search for Nebraska Game and Parks: Venture Parks Adventure or use the QR code found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2xhYnMuZ2VvY2FjaGluZy5jb20vZ290by9uZ3BjdmVudHVyZWFkdmVudHVyZSJ9.-Y1vyvJ4GPqggQjkpLOHqQophlUQCoeEcivjFndRsTQ/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">labs.geocaching.com/goto/NGPCVentureAdventure</a>.

The adventure can be completed in a day, with some extra time to play, such as fish, hike or explore outside. A low to moderate amount of walking is required to complete the course. A park entry pass is required for vehicles entering the parks and can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.fcL-UQMufSVR8G6q9zqPI2D0-yjGVcjGRONwDYi2_Kg/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Families and friends deciding to make a weekend out of it can plan an overnight stay at one of the Venture Parks’ campgrounds or cabins. Find your park at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9leHBsb3JlLyJ9.694Xsw0eWCirA7__vPyuApX1HLIrR0hAxfYsSymPL3g/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/explore</a>.

For more information, contact Kelly Ekue, outdoor education specialist at Schramm Education Center, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has launched an outdoor discovery adventure at its Venture Parks system, a network of four parks nestled in the Platte River Valley between Omaha and Lincoln.This adventure was designed to take participants to all four parks — Eugene T. Mahoney and Platte River state parks and Louisville and Schramm Park state recreation areas — to discover six of their unique gems and find the answers to clues revealed in the app.&nbsp;Participants will need to download the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25ld3Nyb29tLmdlb2NhY2hpbmcuY29tL2FkdmVudHVyZS1sYWIifQ.m2fHndVI_9DmmKhx7qBZ4U-LPCQGgr6CU-4tQnvo0IY/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">Geocaching Adventure Lab</a>&nbsp;mobile app to access coordinates to the six parks’ gems. Users should search for Nebraska Game and Parks: Venture Parks Adventure or use the QR code found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2xhYnMuZ2VvY2FjaGluZy5jb20vZ290by9uZ3BjdmVudHVyZWFkdmVudHVyZSJ9.-Y1vyvJ4GPqggQjkpLOHqQophlUQCoeEcivjFndRsTQ/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">labs.geocaching.com/goto/NGPCVentureAdventure</a>.The adventure can be completed in a day, with some extra time to play, such as fish, hike or explore outside. A low to moderate amount of walking is required to complete the course. A park entry pass is required for vehicles entering the parks and can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.fcL-UQMufSVR8G6q9zqPI2D0-yjGVcjGRONwDYi2_Kg/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.Families and friends deciding to make a weekend out of it can plan an overnight stay at one of the Venture Parks’ campgrounds or cabins. Find your park at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA3MjEuMjQ2ODk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9leHBsb3JlLyJ9.694Xsw0eWCirA7__vPyuApX1HLIrR0hAxfYsSymPL3g/s/497221905/br/81317224420-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/explore</a>.For more information, contact Kelly Ekue, outdoor education specialist at Schramm Education Center, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov</a>.

Nebraska Game and Parks launches discovery adventure at Venture Parks

The following video is a Public Service Announcement from the Univesity of Nebraska at Lincoln Athletics Department.

The following video is a Public Service Announcement from the Univesity of Nebraska at Lincoln Athletics Department.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_fKxWtmmu4w" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
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 </figure>

🎥 Huskers athletes, coaches encourage Nebraskans to wear masks in public

News Release Gov. Ricketts' Office

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that Nebraska’s community colleges are accepting scholarship applications under the Nebraska Workforce Retraining Initiative (WRI). &nbsp;He encouraged potential applicants to apply soon, as the window to apply for many scholarships will close at the end of August.

“Nebraskans whose income has been affected by the pandemic can apply for a scholarship to gain new skills to grow their earnings,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Nebraskans are resilient and resourceful, and these scholarships are a great way to help our people build a better future for themselves and their families.”

The purpose of the WRI program is to help Nebraskans whose livelihoods were impacted by the pandemic obtain skills to quickly find new opportunities in high-demand jobs and career pathways. &nbsp;WRI is administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL).&nbsp; The initiative is funded by $16 million from the State’s $1.08 billion federal Coronavirus Relief Fund allocation.

Under the program, each community college has designed short-term credit and non-credit training courses that will help scholarship recipients achieve industry-recognized certifications in a variety of high-demand occupations. &nbsp;The colleges will also provide career coaching to help students match their skills and interests to employment opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Every participant will engage with one or more employers during the training process.

“WRI will not only help unemployed or underemployed Nebraskans rapidly recover from economic setbacks to themselves or their families, it will provide a unique opportunity for individuals to hone their skillsets and advance further up the vocational ladder in a high-demand field,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. &nbsp;“We anticipate providing over 12,300 scholarships to individuals across the state, and are targeting a 90% job placement rate within three months for those individuals who complete the training.”

“Nebraska’s outstanding community college system is ready to provide top-notch, industry-recognized training to help thousands of our residents launch into a rewarding new job or career path,” said Labor Commissioner John Albin.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We encourage any Nebraskan who is interested not to miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity, which could provide lifelong benefits far beyond today’s period of turbulence.”

“We have employers in each one of our community college service areas who are looking for skilled employees,” said Nebraska Community College Association Executive Director Greg Adams.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This scholarship opportunity is about moving quickly to train and place persons whose employment has been negatively impacted by COVID. &nbsp;Knowing the labor needs of Nebraska’s employers and moving quickly to provide needed training is what our colleges are prepared to do.”

Most scholarships will cover the full cost of the training program, with gap financing available to qualifying students to pay for most non-covered costs. &nbsp;Scholarship amounts will be determined by the colleges, with the average of all scholarships not to exceed $1,100.

Participants who were receiving unemployment benefits before being awarded a scholarship may continue to access the benefits, provided they are receiving training in an NDOL-approved program. &nbsp;While a claimant is in approved training, they are excused from the work search requirement. &nbsp;Applicants can apply for this waiver through NDOL.

All WRI training programs are slated to begin this fall, with most ending by December and some lasting until early spring. &nbsp;Examples of the dozens of programs being offered include computer training, health care, business administration, welding technology, truck driving/CDL, and criminal justice. &nbsp;A full program list, plus more information, is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp;

Starting now, Nebraskans should contact one of the six participating community colleges to apply for a scholarship. &nbsp;Some eligibility criteria apply.&nbsp; For example, recipients must be Nebraska residents who experienced unemployment on or after March 13, 2020 as a result of the coronavirus and are now unable to find a job, or who had their wages or hours reduced because of the pandemic. &nbsp;Full eligibility and frequently asked questions can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships</a>.

For complete information and links, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov</a>.

News Release Gov. Ricketts' OfficeLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that Nebraska’s community colleges are accepting scholarship applications under the Nebraska Workforce Retraining Initiative (WRI). &nbsp;He encouraged potential applicants to apply soon, as the window to apply for many scholarships will close at the end of August.“Nebraskans whose income has been affected by the pandemic can apply for a scholarship to gain new skills to grow their earnings,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Nebraskans are resilient and resourceful, and these scholarships are a great way to help our people build a better future for themselves and their families.”The purpose of the WRI program is to help Nebraskans whose livelihoods were impacted by the pandemic obtain skills to quickly find new opportunities in high-demand jobs and career pathways. &nbsp;WRI is administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL).&nbsp; The initiative is funded by $16 million from the State’s $1.08 billion federal Coronavirus Relief Fund allocation.Under the program, each community college has designed short-term credit and non-credit training courses that will help scholarship recipients achieve industry-recognized certifications in a variety of high-demand occupations. &nbsp;The colleges will also provide career coaching to help students match their skills and interests to employment opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Every participant will engage with one or more employers during the training process.“WRI will not only help unemployed or underemployed Nebraskans rapidly recover from economic setbacks to themselves or their families, it will provide a unique opportunity for individuals to hone their skillsets and advance further up the vocational ladder in a high-demand field,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. &nbsp;“We anticipate providing over 12,300 scholarships to individuals across the state, and are targeting a 90% job placement rate within three months for those individuals who complete the training.”“Nebraska’s outstanding community college system is ready to provide top-notch, industry-recognized training to help thousands of our residents launch into a rewarding new job or career path,” said Labor Commissioner John Albin.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We encourage any Nebraskan who is interested not to miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity, which could provide lifelong benefits far beyond today’s period of turbulence.”“We have employers in each one of our community college service areas who are looking for skilled employees,” said Nebraska Community College Association Executive Director Greg Adams.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This scholarship opportunity is about moving quickly to train and place persons whose employment has been negatively impacted by COVID. &nbsp;Knowing the labor needs of Nebraska’s employers and moving quickly to provide needed training is what our colleges are prepared to do.”Most scholarships will cover the full cost of the training program, with gap financing available to qualifying students to pay for most non-covered costs. &nbsp;Scholarship amounts will be determined by the colleges, with the average of all scholarships not to exceed $1,100.Participants who were receiving unemployment benefits before being awarded a scholarship may continue to access the benefits, provided they are receiving training in an NDOL-approved program. &nbsp;While a claimant is in approved training, they are excused from the work search requirement. &nbsp;Applicants can apply for this waiver through NDOL.All WRI training programs are slated to begin this fall, with most ending by December and some lasting until early spring. &nbsp;Examples of the dozens of programs being offered include computer training, health care, business administration, welding technology, truck driving/CDL, and criminal justice. &nbsp;A full program list, plus more information, is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp;Starting now, Nebraskans should contact one of the six participating community colleges to apply for a scholarship. &nbsp;Some eligibility criteria apply.&nbsp; For example, recipients must be Nebraska residents who experienced unemployment on or after March 13, 2020 as a result of the coronavirus and are now unable to find a job, or who had their wages or hours reduced because of the pandemic. &nbsp;Full eligibility and frequently asked questions can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/workforce-retraining-initiative-scholarships</a>.For complete information and links, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov</a>.

Gov. Ricketts urges Nebraskans to apply for scholarship through Workforce Retraining Initiative 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595379679775.png" alt="This information provided by the North Platte Police Department" />
 <figcaption>This information provided by the North Platte Police Department</figcaption>
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North Platte Police Call Log (July 20-21, 2020)

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A former finance chief for the Nebraska State Fair collected nearly $150,000 in undocumented payments through a company he created last year, state auditors said Tuesday.

The review found two checks totaling $149,415.60 that were made out to RKBB Enterprises Inc., state auditors said in a letter to the fair's governing board.

RKBB Enterprises was created in May 2019 by Brandon Kopke, the fair's former chief of finance and administration. Kopke resigned in November after telling board members that the fair was headed for bankruptcy.

State auditors said they identified the questionable payments during a review of the fair's spending. According to the letter, auditors couldn't find any invoices for the payments or connect them to any services provided for the fair.

Mary Avery, the state's special audits and finance manager, said the account where the checks were deposited appears to have been used for personal expenses.

The State Fair board&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/63754ac7ae644bbfbb8a0fab4798dfdb" target="_blank">laid off eight employees</a>&nbsp;last year after learning that the fair had lost a projected $1.4 million.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A former finance chief for the Nebraska State Fair collected nearly $150,000 in undocumented payments through a company he created last year, state auditors said Tuesday.The review found two checks totaling $149,415.60 that were made out to RKBB Enterprises Inc., state auditors said in a letter to the fair's governing board.RKBB Enterprises was created in May 2019 by Brandon Kopke, the fair's former chief of finance and administration. Kopke resigned in November after telling board members that the fair was headed for bankruptcy.State auditors said they identified the questionable payments during a review of the fair's spending. According to the letter, auditors couldn't find any invoices for the payments or connect them to any services provided for the fair.Mary Avery, the state's special audits and finance manager, said the account where the checks were deposited appears to have been used for personal expenses.The State Fair board&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/63754ac7ae644bbfbb8a0fab4798dfdb" target="_blank">laid off eight employees</a>&nbsp;last year after learning that the fair had lost a projected $1.4 million.

Auditors question spending by ex-Nebraska fair employee

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department said on Tuesday that five new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in their jurisdiction, which includes Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker and Arthur Counties.

Three cases are from Lincoln County including a female in her 20s (this case is under investigation), a male in his 40s (this case is travel related), and a female in her 30s (this case is a close contact). All three of these cases are actively isolating at home.

The fourth case is a female in her 30s from Hooker County, actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.

The fifth case is a male in his 50s from McPherson County, actively isolating at home. This case is community spread.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?%3Alanguage=en&amp;%3Adisplay_count=y&amp;publish=yes&amp;%3Aorigin=viz_share_link&amp;fbclid=IwAR1ppwKU9t91I4kJkeAEsH25Oeyi2qtkUyBKJIwca9y5vzZX3gPd6W9Rw0c" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/…/WestCentralDistrictHea…/Story1…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department said on Tuesday that five new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in their jurisdiction, which includes Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas, Hooker and Arthur Counties.Three cases are from Lincoln County including a female in her 20s (this case is under investigation), a male in his 40s (this case is travel related), and a female in her 30s (this case is a close contact). All three of these cases are actively isolating at home.The fourth case is a female in her 30s from Hooker County, actively isolating at home. This case is a close contact.The fifth case is a male in his 50s from McPherson County, actively isolating at home. This case is community spread.WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/WestCentralDistrictHealthDepartmentCOVID-19Dashboard/Story1?%3Alanguage=en&amp;%3Adisplay_count=y&amp;publish=yes&amp;%3Aorigin=viz_share_link&amp;fbclid=IwAR1ppwKU9t91I4kJkeAEsH25Oeyi2qtkUyBKJIwca9y5vzZX3gPd6W9Rw0c" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/…/WestCentralDistrictHea…/Story1…</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595422978143.png" alt="" />
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Five new cases of COVID-19 reported in WCDHD jurisdiction 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska's new president expressed confidence Tuesday that all four university campuses will be ready for in-person classes this fall despite the threat of the coronavirus.

Ted Carter said the campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney have already taken steps to welcome back students while minimizing the risk that the virus will spread.

Carter said students who arrive on campus for the fall semester will see smaller, spread-out classes, less crowded dorms, mandatory masks and buildings that are cleaned more frequently.

"We're not going into this with hope and a prayer," Carter said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We're going into this with a bias for action."

University officials have left open the possibility that they will return to online learning if the pandemic worsens. But Carter said it's important for the university to offer in-person instruction. He said university surveys have shown that the vast majority of students and faculty members want to return for in-person classes, and extra precautions will taken for those who are at greater risk.

"You cannot get the same level of education through a Zoom call," Carter said.

Carter said the university is better-positioned than many other schools because each of its campuses is spread out over large areas, making it easier to keep people at a safe distance. The university has roughly 51,000 students and 16,000 faculty and staff members at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney and the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

In May, the university's flagship campus in Lincoln announced that it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b2f2b4f84ce69bc070d8fd0860eae147" target="_blank">start classes online</a>&nbsp;for one week on Aug. 17 and then transition to in-person learning for the rest of the fall semester, starting Aug. 24. The semester will be shortened, and scheduled to end before Thanksgiving.

Carter was sworn in as the university's new president in January, just a few months before the pandemic forced widespread closures in Nebraska and the rest of the country. The university&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ee78cc53e7840129c7815526dd424167" target="_blank">closed its campuses</a>&nbsp;in April as the pandemic worsened.

The campuses also shifted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8967d9860d335e09c5f7f4ddf8fe8f3" target="_blank">online classes</a>&nbsp;during the spring semester to try to keep the virus from spreading.

Nebraska's community colleges are taking similar steps. For instance, Northeast Community College in Norfolk announced in June that it will offer a combination of small, socially distanced on-campus classes and online instruction.

They also expect to take a leading role in training people who lost their jobs because of the pandemic, said Greg Adams, executive director of the Nebraska Community College Association.

The state has set aside $16 million in federal coronavirus aid to help pay those educational costs. Ricketts said community colleges will administer the program and distribute the money in the form of scholarships for people going into high-demand jobs.

"We need to get (people who lost their jobs) back in the workforce as quickly as we can," Adams said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595366036737.png" alt="Lloyd G. Tanner Plaza featuring Fred J. Hoppe's bronze statue of "Archie" (left of center) and the main entrance to Morrill Hall&nbsp;on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus. (Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Hanyou23">Hanyou23</a>-Wikimedia Creative Commons)" />
 <figcaption>Lloyd G. Tanner Plaza featuring Fred J. Hoppe's bronze statue of "Archie" (left of center) and the main entrance to Morrill Hall&nbsp;on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus. (Photo:&nbsp;<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Hanyou23">Hanyou23</a>-Wikimedia Creative Commons)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska's new president expressed confidence Tuesday that all four university campuses will be ready for in-person classes this fall despite the threat of the coronavirus.Ted Carter said the campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney have already taken steps to welcome back students while minimizing the risk that the virus will spread.Carter said students who arrive on campus for the fall semester will see smaller, spread-out classes, less crowded dorms, mandatory masks and buildings that are cleaned more frequently."We're not going into this with hope and a prayer," Carter said at a news conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts. "We're going into this with a bias for action."University officials have left open the possibility that they will return to online learning if the pandemic worsens. But Carter said it's important for the university to offer in-person instruction. He said university surveys have shown that the vast majority of students and faculty members want to return for in-person classes, and extra precautions will taken for those who are at greater risk."You cannot get the same level of education through a Zoom call," Carter said.Carter said the university is better-positioned than many other schools because each of its campuses is spread out over large areas, making it easier to keep people at a safe distance. The university has roughly 51,000 students and 16,000 faculty and staff members at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney and the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.In May, the university's flagship campus in Lincoln announced that it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b2f2b4f84ce69bc070d8fd0860eae147" target="_blank">start classes online</a>&nbsp;for one week on Aug. 17 and then transition to in-person learning for the rest of the fall semester, starting Aug. 24. The semester will be shortened, and scheduled to end before Thanksgiving.Carter was sworn in as the university's new president in January, just a few months before the pandemic forced widespread closures in Nebraska and the rest of the country. The university&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ee78cc53e7840129c7815526dd424167" target="_blank">closed its campuses</a>&nbsp;in April as the pandemic worsened.The campuses also shifted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8967d9860d335e09c5f7f4ddf8fe8f3" target="_blank">online classes</a>&nbsp;during the spring semester to try to keep the virus from spreading.Nebraska's community colleges are taking similar steps. For instance, Northeast Community College in Norfolk announced in June that it will offer a combination of small, socially distanced on-campus classes and online instruction.They also expect to take a leading role in training people who lost their jobs because of the pandemic, said Greg Adams, executive director of the Nebraska Community College Association.The state has set aside $16 million in federal coronavirus aid to help pay those educational costs. Ricketts said community colleges will administer the program and distribute the money in the form of scholarships for people going into high-demand jobs."We need to get (people who lost their jobs) back in the workforce as quickly as we can," Adams said.

U. of Nebraska president: Campuses will be ready for virus

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College will host Registration Days on Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August.

The events, which will give prospective students opportunities to sign up for classes and receive information needed to begin coursework in the fall, will be hosted by the college’s campuses in North Platte and McCook.&nbsp;

Registration Days are scheduled for July 28 and Aug. 11 in McCook and July 30 and Aug. 13 in North Platte. Students will have the opportunity to choose a morning session beginning at 8 a.m., or an afternoon session beginning at 1 p.m.

Health measures will be followed, and participants will be required to wear masks during the events.

Students will be able to take placement tests, if needed, and representatives will be on hand to answer questions about:

“We know that this ‘onboarding process’ is important to the future success of our students,” said Mindy Hope, MPCC area director of recruiting and admissions. “Rather than having students simply sign up for classes, they and their families will get a comprehensive overview of our student services, facilities and overall culture. They will be provided with the tools needed for an optimal experience both inside and outside the classroom at MPCC.”

Although not mandatory, parents are also encouraged to be part of Registration Days. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP at&nbsp;<a href="https://campus.mpcc.edu/ICS/RSVP/Registration_Days.jnz" target="_blank">https://campus.mpcc.edu/ICS/RSVP/Registration_Days.jnz</a>. More information is available by calling (800) 658-4308, ext. 3609.

News ReleaseNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College will host Registration Days on Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August.The events, which will give prospective students opportunities to sign up for classes and receive information needed to begin coursework in the fall, will be hosted by the college’s campuses in North Platte and McCook.&nbsp;Registration Days are scheduled for July 28 and Aug. 11 in McCook and July 30 and Aug. 13 in North Platte. Students will have the opportunity to choose a morning session beginning at 8 a.m., or an afternoon session beginning at 1 p.m.Health measures will be followed, and participants will be required to wear masks during the events.Students will be able to take placement tests, if needed, and representatives will be on hand to answer questions about:<ul>
 <li>Class scheduling</li><li>Financial aid</li><li>Payment expectations</li><li>Bookstores</li><li>Career services</li><li>Advising</li><li>Library services</li><li>Student Success/tutors</li><li>Disability services</li><li>Student life</li><li>Student organizations</li><li>Campus housing</li>
 </ul>“We know that this ‘onboarding process’ is important to the future success of our students,” said Mindy Hope, MPCC area director of recruiting and admissions. “Rather than having students simply sign up for classes, they and their families will get a comprehensive overview of our student services, facilities and overall culture. They will be provided with the tools needed for an optimal experience both inside and outside the classroom at MPCC.”Although not mandatory, parents are also encouraged to be part of Registration Days. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP at&nbsp;<a href="https://campus.mpcc.edu/ICS/RSVP/Registration_Days.jnz" target="_blank">https://campus.mpcc.edu/ICS/RSVP/Registration_Days.jnz</a>. More information is available by calling (800) 658-4308, ext. 3609.

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