LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Military retirees who live in Nebraska will get a tax cut starting in 2022 under a bill slated to become state law.

Lawmakers gave the measure final approval Wednesday and sent it to Gov. Pete Ricketts, who proposed it at the start of this year's session. The bill would exempt half of a military retiree's benefits from Nebraska state taxes.

Sen. Tom Brewer, who sponsored the bill, has said the measure would help Nebraska attract and retain military service members after they retire. Several neighboring states, including Iowa and Missouri, don't impose any tax on military retirement benefits and both states have managed to entice retirees from Nebraska's Offutt Air Force Base.

Brewer, a U.S. Army veteran from Gordon,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7c15c5b17cf146ffbe9457964be746f6" target="_blank">introduced the bill</a>&nbsp;last year but lawmakers ran out of time before they were able to debate it in 2019.

Lawmakers pushed back the effective date of the tax cut so that it won't cost anything until the fiscal year that begins in July 2021. By 2024, it will cost about $14 million a year in lost revenue.

The legislation would affect more than 13,000 military retirees in Nebraska.

Ricketts identified the bill as one of his top legislative priorities this year, arguing that military retirees often move on to second careers that help stimulate their local economy and generate tax revenue.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Military retirees who live in Nebraska will get a tax cut starting in 2022 under a bill slated to become state law.Lawmakers gave the measure final approval Wednesday and sent it to Gov. Pete Ricketts, who proposed it at the start of this year's session. The bill would exempt half of a military retiree's benefits from Nebraska state taxes.Sen. Tom Brewer, who sponsored the bill, has said the measure would help Nebraska attract and retain military service members after they retire. Several neighboring states, including Iowa and Missouri, don't impose any tax on military retirement benefits and both states have managed to entice retirees from Nebraska's Offutt Air Force Base.Brewer, a U.S. Army veteran from Gordon,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7c15c5b17cf146ffbe9457964be746f6" target="_blank">introduced the bill</a>&nbsp;last year but lawmakers ran out of time before they were able to debate it in 2019.Lawmakers pushed back the effective date of the tax cut so that it won't cost anything until the fiscal year that begins in July 2021. By 2024, it will cost about $14 million a year in lost revenue.The legislation would affect more than 13,000 military retirees in Nebraska.Ricketts identified the bill as one of his top legislative priorities this year, arguing that military retirees often move on to second careers that help stimulate their local economy and generate tax revenue.

Nebraska lawmakers pass tax cut for military retirees

United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Logan Anderson, 24, of Paxton, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison by United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system. Upon her release from prison, Anderson will serve three years of supervised release.

On or about April 9, 2019, Nebraska State Patrol investigators and the CODE (Central Nebraska Cooperative Operation for Drug Enforcement) Task Force contacted co-defendant Nathan Goulding and Anderson at their residence in Paxton. A distinct odor of marijuana was coming from the residence.&nbsp; Officers applied for and received a signed search warrant for the property and vehicles on the property. Evidence taken from the search warrant included approximately 65 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, and numerous devices used to consume drugs.&nbsp;

Goulding pleaded guilty for the same offense.&nbsp; He was sentenced to 37 months in prison on July 29, 2020. He will serve four years of supervised release following his release from prison.

This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and the CODE Task Force.

United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Logan Anderson, 24, of Paxton, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison by United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system. Upon her release from prison, Anderson will serve three years of supervised release.On or about April 9, 2019, Nebraska State Patrol investigators and the CODE (Central Nebraska Cooperative Operation for Drug Enforcement) Task Force contacted co-defendant Nathan Goulding and Anderson at their residence in Paxton. A distinct odor of marijuana was coming from the residence.&nbsp; Officers applied for and received a signed search warrant for the property and vehicles on the property. Evidence taken from the search warrant included approximately 65 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, and numerous devices used to consume drugs.&nbsp;Goulding pleaded guilty for the same offense.&nbsp; He was sentenced to 37 months in prison on July 29, 2020. He will serve four years of supervised release following his release from prison.This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and the CODE Task Force.

Paxton woman sentenced to federal prison for meth distribution 

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts visited York to cut the ribbon on Creekside Apartments—new housing financed in part by the state’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund (RWHF). While in York, Gov. Ricketts announced the recipients of $10,251,498 in awards from the Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund (NAHTF) for 2020.

“To grow Nebraska, we need a strong supply of quality, affordable homes to welcome working families to our communities,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“Programs like the Rural Workforce Housing Fund and the Affordable Housing Trust Fund provide Nebraska’s rural communities with more of the tools they need to grow.”

The Governor visited York a year ago to break ground on the Creekside Apartments, which feature 48 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units at a total project cost of $5.2 million. &nbsp;Construction of the apartments was made possible by a $323,000 grant from the RWHF, combined with local contributions.

Established by the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Act (LB 518) of 2017, the RWHF helps communities in counties with populations under 100,000 finance affordable housing to accommodate a growing workforce. &nbsp;York applied for and received $323,000 from the RWHF in 2018, which it matched with $506,000 from local businesses, donors, and the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) to create its own workforce housing revolving loan fund. &nbsp;As in other RWHF recipient communities, this revolving fund will continue financing rural workforce housing developments for years to come.

“Our citizens and leaders recognize a need, and have demonstrated their commitment to helping York County expand its housing inventory and promote new opportunities for growth,” said York County Development Corporation Executive Director Lisa Hurley. &nbsp;“The RWHF is making it possible for us to achieve our goals, nearly matching the contributions committed to our housing fund by 26 local investors—six of whom were private families. &nbsp;We are&nbsp;incredibly&nbsp;grateful, as well as excited for the possibilities ahead."

Shortly after the ribbon-cutting today, the Governor revealed the 26 recipients that have been selected by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) to receive funding from the NAHTF for 2020.

Established in 1996, the NAHTF is Nebraska’s largest resource for quality, affordable housing development.&nbsp; The fund has helped to build or rehabilitate more than 6,500 units since its inception. &nbsp;NAHTF grants can finance activities like new home construction, homebuyer down payment assistance, or owner-occupied rehabilitation for families 120% or below the area median income. &nbsp;York County—one of this year’s NAHTF recipients—will use its award to rehabilitate at least 18 homes, with repairs ranging from new furnaces and siding to energy efficient, cost-saving doors and windows.&nbsp;

“The NAHTF offers not just the financing, but the program flexibility to help local leaders address housing needs in their community,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. &nbsp;“It’s an opportunity that can change the lives of a&nbsp;single&nbsp;low- to moderate-income family, or transform the appearance of an entire neighborhood. &nbsp;It’s a fund we’re proud to administer as an agency, and one that has done a tremendous amount of good in Nebraska throughout its lifespan.”&nbsp;

In all, this year’s NAHTF awards will help build approximately 80 new homes and rehabilitate 125 more across the state, while helping around 76 households afford to purchase a home. &nbsp;The funds will also help support seven nonprofit organizations that specialize in community housing solutions.

“This grant from the Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund will be of huge benefit to York County homeowners,” said York County Commissioners Chairman Randy Obermeier. &nbsp;“Our communities, like many others across the state, contain homes that are in need of repairs, oftentimes more than the owners can bear. &nbsp;The funds from this grant will help us spruce up neighborhoods throughout the county. &nbsp;We would like to thank Governor Ricketts, DED, and our partners at York County Development Center and Southeast Nebraska Development District for their assistance bringing these funds to our area.”

This year’s NAHTF recipients are listed below. &nbsp;For more information on the NAHTF or the RWHF, visit the DED website at&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov</a>.

Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund recipients, 2020*:

*Grant awarded to nonprofit for technical assistance

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Bassett: $299,998

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Columbus: $500,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska: $200,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, Inc. $1,540,000 (includes $40,000 for technical assistance)*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;High Plains Community Development Corporation: $184,500

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Holy Name Housing Corporation: $1,000,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Housing Foundation for Sarpy County: $40,000*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Keith County Housing Development Corporation: $40,000*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lincoln County Community Development Corporation: $390,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Midwest Housing Development Fund, Inc.: $30,000*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NeighborWorks Lincoln: $1,000,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska: $500,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;New Community Development Corporation dba NeighborWorks Home Solutions: $300,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Village of North Loup: $252,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Northern Ponca Housing Authority: $500,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Norfolk: $500,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Northeast Economic Development, Inc.: $288,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Plainview: $452,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Sargent: $315,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South Central Economic Development District, Inc.: $40,000*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South of Downtown Community Development Organization: $500,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Southeast Nebraska Affordable Housing Council: $40,000*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment Corporation: $300,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Twin Cities Development Association, Inc.: $500,000

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wakefield Development Corporation: $40,000*

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;York County: $500,000

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597271402633.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts prepares to cut ribbon on the Creekside Apartments in York alongside&nbsp;leaders who helped make the project possible." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts prepares to cut ribbon on the Creekside Apartments in York alongside&nbsp;leaders who helped make the project possible.</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Gov. Ricketts OfficeLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts visited York to cut the ribbon on Creekside Apartments—new housing financed in part by the state’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund (RWHF). While in York, Gov. Ricketts announced the recipients of $10,251,498 in awards from the Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund (NAHTF) for 2020.“To grow Nebraska, we need a strong supply of quality, affordable homes to welcome working families to our communities,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“Programs like the Rural Workforce Housing Fund and the Affordable Housing Trust Fund provide Nebraska’s rural communities with more of the tools they need to grow.”The Governor visited York a year ago to break ground on the Creekside Apartments, which feature 48 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units at a total project cost of $5.2 million. &nbsp;Construction of the apartments was made possible by a $323,000 grant from the RWHF, combined with local contributions.Established by the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Act (LB 518) of 2017, the RWHF helps communities in counties with populations under 100,000 finance affordable housing to accommodate a growing workforce. &nbsp;York applied for and received $323,000 from the RWHF in 2018, which it matched with $506,000 from local businesses, donors, and the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) to create its own workforce housing revolving loan fund. &nbsp;As in other RWHF recipient communities, this revolving fund will continue financing rural workforce housing developments for years to come.“Our citizens and leaders recognize a need, and have demonstrated their commitment to helping York County expand its housing inventory and promote new opportunities for growth,” said York County Development Corporation Executive Director Lisa Hurley. &nbsp;“The RWHF is making it possible for us to achieve our goals, nearly matching the contributions committed to our housing fund by 26 local investors—six of whom were private families. &nbsp;We are&nbsp;incredibly&nbsp;grateful, as well as excited for the possibilities ahead."Shortly after the ribbon-cutting today, the Governor revealed the 26 recipients that have been selected by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) to receive funding from the NAHTF for 2020.Established in 1996, the NAHTF is Nebraska’s largest resource for quality, affordable housing development.&nbsp; The fund has helped to build or rehabilitate more than 6,500 units since its inception. &nbsp;NAHTF grants can finance activities like new home construction, homebuyer down payment assistance, or owner-occupied rehabilitation for families 120% or below the area median income. &nbsp;York County—one of this year’s NAHTF recipients—will use its award to rehabilitate at least 18 homes, with repairs ranging from new furnaces and siding to energy efficient, cost-saving doors and windows.&nbsp;“The NAHTF offers not just the financing, but the program flexibility to help local leaders address housing needs in their community,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. &nbsp;“It’s an opportunity that can change the lives of a&nbsp;single&nbsp;low- to moderate-income family, or transform the appearance of an entire neighborhood. &nbsp;It’s a fund we’re proud to administer as an agency, and one that has done a tremendous amount of good in Nebraska throughout its lifespan.”&nbsp;In all, this year’s NAHTF awards will help build approximately 80 new homes and rehabilitate 125 more across the state, while helping around 76 households afford to purchase a home. &nbsp;The funds will also help support seven nonprofit organizations that specialize in community housing solutions.“This grant from the Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund will be of huge benefit to York County homeowners,” said York County Commissioners Chairman Randy Obermeier. &nbsp;“Our communities, like many others across the state, contain homes that are in need of repairs, oftentimes more than the owners can bear. &nbsp;The funds from this grant will help us spruce up neighborhoods throughout the county. &nbsp;We would like to thank Governor Ricketts, DED, and our partners at York County Development Center and Southeast Nebraska Development District for their assistance bringing these funds to our area.”This year’s NAHTF recipients are listed below. &nbsp;For more information on the NAHTF or the RWHF, visit the DED website at&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov</a>.Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund recipients, 2020*:*Grant awarded to nonprofit for technical assistance·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Bassett: $299,998·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Columbus: $500,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska: $200,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, Inc. $1,540,000 (includes $40,000 for technical assistance)*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;High Plains Community Development Corporation: $184,500·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Holy Name Housing Corporation: $1,000,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Housing Foundation for Sarpy County: $40,000*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Keith County Housing Development Corporation: $40,000*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lincoln County Community Development Corporation: $390,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Midwest Housing Development Fund, Inc.: $30,000*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NeighborWorks Lincoln: $1,000,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska: $500,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;New Community Development Corporation dba NeighborWorks Home Solutions: $300,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Village of North Loup: $252,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Northern Ponca Housing Authority: $500,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Norfolk: $500,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Northeast Economic Development, Inc.: $288,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Plainview: $452,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;City of Sargent: $315,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South Central Economic Development District, Inc.: $40,000*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;South of Downtown Community Development Organization: $500,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Southeast Nebraska Affordable Housing Council: $40,000*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment Corporation: $300,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Twin Cities Development Association, Inc.: $500,000·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wakefield Development Corporation: $40,000*·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;York County: $500,000

Gov. Ricketts announces 2020 Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund recipients

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the State of Nebraska will block the TikTok software application on all State electronic devices due to security concerns. &nbsp;

“The Chinese government has long engaged in systematic, covert efforts to access sensitive data from U.S. governments, companies, and individuals,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “As an app owned by a company based in China, TikTok is legally obligated to provide data from its users to the country’s communist regime upon request.&nbsp; To maintain the security of data owned by the State of Nebraska, and to safeguard against the intrusive cyber activities of China’s communist government, we’ve made the decision to ban TikTok on State devices.”

In remarks to the press on August 5, 2020, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the federal government’s stepped up efforts to protect Americans’ electronic data from being accessed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which controls China’s government.

“President Trump has mentioned impending action on TikTok, and for good reason. &nbsp;With parent companies based in China, apps like TikTok, WeChat, and others are significant threats to the personal data of American citizens, not to mention tools for CCP content censorship.”

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the State of Nebraska will block the TikTok software application on all State electronic devices due to security concerns. &nbsp;“The Chinese government has long engaged in systematic, covert efforts to access sensitive data from U.S. governments, companies, and individuals,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “As an app owned by a company based in China, TikTok is legally obligated to provide data from its users to the country’s communist regime upon request.&nbsp; To maintain the security of data owned by the State of Nebraska, and to safeguard against the intrusive cyber activities of China’s communist government, we’ve made the decision to ban TikTok on State devices.”In remarks to the press on August 5, 2020, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the federal government’s stepped up efforts to protect Americans’ electronic data from being accessed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which controls China’s government.“President Trump has mentioned impending action on TikTok, and for good reason. &nbsp;With parent companies based in China, apps like TikTok, WeChat, and others are significant threats to the personal data of American citizens, not to mention tools for CCP content censorship.”

Gov. Ricketts bans TikTok on state devices

By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH-Associated Press

MISSION, Kan. (AP) - As parents nationwide prepare to help their children with more distance learning, a small but quickly growing number are deciding to take matters entirely into their own hands and begin homeschooling.

Some are worried their districts are unable to offer a strong virtual learning program. For others who may have been considering homeschooling, concerns for their family's health amid the coronavirus and the on-again, off-again planning for in-person instruction are leading them to part ways with school systems.

Mindy Kroesche, a freelance writer and editor from Lincoln, Nebraska, had been leaning toward homeschooling her 12-year-old son, who has autism and ADHD diagnoses that made middle school a challenge. But she always felt her 10-year-old daughter was "built for school." Now with the pandemic raging, she is pulling them both out for the year.

"We just saw that with her wearing a mask for the entire day, that would make learning more difficult for her," she said. "It was going to be such a different environment. We didn't think it would be as beneficial for her."

Homeschooling applications are surging in states including Nebraska, where they are up 21%, and Vermont, where they are up 75%. In North Carolina, a rush of parents filing notices that they planned to homeschool overwhelmed a government website last month, leaving it temporarily unable to accept applications.

There were about 2.5 million homeschool students last year in grades K-12 in the U.S., making up about 3% to 4% of school-age children, according to the National Home Educators Research Institute. Brian Ray, the group's president, is anticipating that their numbers will increase by at least 10%.

"One day the school district says X and four days later they say Y," Ray said. "And then the governor says another thing and then that changes what the school district can do. And parents and teachers are tired of what appear to be arbitrary and capricious decisions. They are tired of it and saying we are out of here."

Interest in homeschooling materials also has been surging, driven in part by parents who are keeping their children enrolled in schools but looking for ways to supplement distance learning.

The National Home School Association received more than 3,400 requests for information on a single day last month, up from between five and 20 inquiries per day before the coronavirus. The group had to increase the size of its email inbox to keep up.

"Clearly the interest we have been getting has exploded," said J. Allen Weston, the executive director of the suburban Denver-based group. "That is really the only way to describe it."

Some parents in rural parts of Nebraska are turning to homeschooling because staffing and limited access to home internet leave districts unable to offer a virtual learning option, said Kathryn Dillow, president and executive director of Nebraska Home Schools, a support and advocacy group.

Homeschooling applications continue arriving in Nebraska, where the number of homeschoolers already had risen to 3,400 as of July 14, up from 2,800 at the same time a year ago, said David Jespersen, a spokesman for the Nebraska Department of Education.

Jespersen said there is "a lot of confusion" and that "parents are delayed in making their decision" because so much is changing.

Regardless of the final number, Jespersen doesn't expect that the increase will bust districts' budgets because homeschoolers will still remain a small fraction of about 326,000 students spread over the state's 244 school systems.

Most other states don't have homeschooling numbers, either because they aren't collected at the state level or it's too early. But all indications point to increases across the country.

"Now is when the reality sets in," said John Edelson, president of Time4Learning, an online curriculum provider, which has seen business explode. "People have postponed the decision, but we are at this great inflection point. And it is hard to see what the angle is going to be, but it is definitely up."

In Missouri, calls and emails pour into the homeschool advocacy group Families For Home Education each time a district releases its reopening plan, said Charyti Jackson, the group's executive director. She said families are in a "panic" about virtual starts to the year and hybrid plans in which students attend classes parttime and study at home the rest.

"They are asking, 'What am I supposed to be doing with my children when I am working full time?'" she said.

For the families who only plan to homeschool for a semester or two, some in small groups or pods, her advice is focused on how to make sure students can transition back to public schooling smoothly when the pandemic ends. That's trickier for students who receive special education services and high schoolers who need to meet their district's graduation requirements.

There also are some indications the exodus to homeschooling could continue well into fall. Christina Rothermel-Branham, a psychology and counseling professor at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, said she is going to attempt remote learning through her local school district for her 6-year-old son. But she said the virtual learning she oversaw in the spring was "very monotonous" and that she plans to switch to homeschooling if the first month goes poorly.

"If there is a lot of stress between the two of us it is probably going to get him pulled out," she said.

Rothermel-Branham, 39, already has scouted out curriculum as a backup and has signed up for art and music classes through Outschool, an online learning platform that is reporting 30 times year-over-year growth since March.

"It is such a big mess," said Outschool CEO Amir Nathoo. "A lot of schools spent all summer preparing for a social distanced reopening and now it looks like that isn't going to happen because of the virus."

He said the demand for classes has been particularly strong in states that moved aggressively to reopen, including Texas, Florida, Georgia and Arizona.

Chris Perrin, the CEO of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania-based Classical Academic Press, said curriculum sales to homeschoolers are up by 50% and that enrollment in its online Scholé Academy has increased by 100% amid the pandemic. He said some there was "understandably a lot of bad online learning" in the spring and that some parents were "appalled" as they oversaw it.

"They are saying I can't stand by and do nothing," Perrin said. "So they are becoming homeschoolers."

By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH-Associated Press MISSION, Kan. (AP) - As parents nationwide prepare to help their children with more distance learning, a small but quickly growing number are deciding to take matters entirely into their own hands and begin homeschooling.Some are worried their districts are unable to offer a strong virtual learning program. For others who may have been considering homeschooling, concerns for their family's health amid the coronavirus and the on-again, off-again planning for in-person instruction are leading them to part ways with school systems.Mindy Kroesche, a freelance writer and editor from Lincoln, Nebraska, had been leaning toward homeschooling her 12-year-old son, who has autism and ADHD diagnoses that made middle school a challenge. But she always felt her 10-year-old daughter was "built for school." Now with the pandemic raging, she is pulling them both out for the year."We just saw that with her wearing a mask for the entire day, that would make learning more difficult for her," she said. "It was going to be such a different environment. We didn't think it would be as beneficial for her."Homeschooling applications are surging in states including Nebraska, where they are up 21%, and Vermont, where they are up 75%. In North Carolina, a rush of parents filing notices that they planned to homeschool overwhelmed a government website last month, leaving it temporarily unable to accept applications.There were about 2.5 million homeschool students last year in grades K-12 in the U.S., making up about 3% to 4% of school-age children, according to the National Home Educators Research Institute. Brian Ray, the group's president, is anticipating that their numbers will increase by at least 10%."One day the school district says X and four days later they say Y," Ray said. "And then the governor says another thing and then that changes what the school district can do. And parents and teachers are tired of what appear to be arbitrary and capricious decisions. They are tired of it and saying we are out of here."Interest in homeschooling materials also has been surging, driven in part by parents who are keeping their children enrolled in schools but looking for ways to supplement distance learning.The National Home School Association received more than 3,400 requests for information on a single day last month, up from between five and 20 inquiries per day before the coronavirus. The group had to increase the size of its email inbox to keep up."Clearly the interest we have been getting has exploded," said J. Allen Weston, the executive director of the suburban Denver-based group. "That is really the only way to describe it."Some parents in rural parts of Nebraska are turning to homeschooling because staffing and limited access to home internet leave districts unable to offer a virtual learning option, said Kathryn Dillow, president and executive director of Nebraska Home Schools, a support and advocacy group.Homeschooling applications continue arriving in Nebraska, where the number of homeschoolers already had risen to 3,400 as of July 14, up from 2,800 at the same time a year ago, said David Jespersen, a spokesman for the Nebraska Department of Education.Jespersen said there is "a lot of confusion" and that "parents are delayed in making their decision" because so much is changing.Regardless of the final number, Jespersen doesn't expect that the increase will bust districts' budgets because homeschoolers will still remain a small fraction of about 326,000 students spread over the state's 244 school systems.Most other states don't have homeschooling numbers, either because they aren't collected at the state level or it's too early. But all indications point to increases across the country."Now is when the reality sets in," said John Edelson, president of Time4Learning, an online curriculum provider, which has seen business explode. "People have postponed the decision, but we are at this great inflection point. And it is hard to see what the angle is going to be, but it is definitely up."In Missouri, calls and emails pour into the homeschool advocacy group Families For Home Education each time a district releases its reopening plan, said Charyti Jackson, the group's executive director. She said families are in a "panic" about virtual starts to the year and hybrid plans in which students attend classes parttime and study at home the rest."They are asking, 'What am I supposed to be doing with my children when I am working full time?'" she said.For the families who only plan to homeschool for a semester or two, some in small groups or pods, her advice is focused on how to make sure students can transition back to public schooling smoothly when the pandemic ends. That's trickier for students who receive special education services and high schoolers who need to meet their district's graduation requirements.There also are some indications the exodus to homeschooling could continue well into fall. Christina Rothermel-Branham, a psychology and counseling professor at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, said she is going to attempt remote learning through her local school district for her 6-year-old son. But she said the virtual learning she oversaw in the spring was "very monotonous" and that she plans to switch to homeschooling if the first month goes poorly."If there is a lot of stress between the two of us it is probably going to get him pulled out," she said.Rothermel-Branham, 39, already has scouted out curriculum as a backup and has signed up for art and music classes through Outschool, an online learning platform that is reporting 30 times year-over-year growth since March."It is such a big mess," said Outschool CEO Amir Nathoo. "A lot of schools spent all summer preparing for a social distanced reopening and now it looks like that isn't going to happen because of the virus."He said the demand for classes has been particularly strong in states that moved aggressively to reopen, including Texas, Florida, Georgia and Arizona.Chris Perrin, the CEO of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania-based Classical Academic Press, said curriculum sales to homeschoolers are up by 50% and that enrollment in its online Scholé Academy has increased by 100% amid the pandemic. He said some there was "understandably a lot of bad online learning" in the spring and that some parents were "appalled" as they oversaw it."They are saying I can't stand by and do nothing," Perrin said. "So they are becoming homeschoolers."

Interest in homeschooling has 'exploded' amid pandemic

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The surprising (at least to fans) announcement late last week that the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference is suspending the fall seasons for football and volleyball probably won’t be the last word, according to Joel Smith, the Chadron State College athletic director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; More discussions are scheduled and some changes are anticipated as the NCAA, the conferences and the schools try to do what is best for the student-athletes and the athletic programs, he added.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith, who is chairman of the RMAC’s Competition Committee, said Monday morning that he already had four zoom meetings scheduled for this week, two of them at the national level and two at the conference level.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “We’re all trying to do the right thing,” Smith said. “We had to make the announcement last week because we had too many questions that were going to take some time to answer. He said they included testing for COVID-19, insurance coverage in case athletes are affected, eligibility of the athletes and scholarships.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The RMAC announcement said the fall sports competition would be moved to the spring, but that also spawned numerous questions, particularly concerning football because of weather implications.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Just a week earlier, the RMAC Presidents’ Council announced that conference-only contests would be played this fall, beginning Sept. 18 and 19. The Presidents’ Council also made last week’s decision suspending the fall football, volleyball and soccer seasons, but allowing cross county and golf to be played this fall because they are considered “low risk” sports.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Several other Division II conferences had made similar announcements prior to the RMAC decision. Now, it appears that all DII conferences have decided to forego competition in the “high risk” sports this fall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Earlier last week, the NCAA Board of Governors and the DII Presidents’ Council mandated that no fall sports national championships will take place in 2020.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While much remains uncertain, Smith said it’s possible football teams this fall may emulate what they’ve been doing in the spring and then play a limited schedule of games in the spring.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “There’s no way football will play 10 games in the spring and then play another 10 in the fall (of 2021), after we certainly hope everything is back to normal,” Smith said.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He added that after visiting with some of his colleagues Monday, it seems probable that volleyball will switch nearly everything that usually takes place in the fall to spring.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NCAA rules state that coaches may have instructional contact with their athletes a total of 103 days annually. In the past for football, 15 of those days have been utilized in the spring and the remainder in the fall.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith added that the NCAA previously had decided that all athletes would have to take COVID tests through their nostrils 72 hours before the contests began.&nbsp; The process is expensive, but Smith said Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts had stated the state would assist with those costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Other members of RMAC had not received similar assurances at last report, Smith said.

He also stated that the colleges’ current insurance does not cover payments for care necessitated by the virus, making it another item that likely will have to be settled before any competition takes place.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State Head Football Coach Jay Long called the scenario “pretty crazy.”&nbsp;

“As coaches, we try to plan and be well organized and then things become so uncertain,” Long added. “That’s just the way things have happened.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long said at least 40 and maybe as many as 60 CSC football players have been living in Chadron this summer and working out four or five times a week on their own to get ready for the season.

Some of them went home on Friday when they found out there would be no fall camp, which had been scheduled to start on Friday the 14th&nbsp;following the announcement that the Eagles’ first game would be Sept. 19 against South Dakota Mines in Rapid City.

Long said he is hopeful that all of the players will be back this week to be ready when classes begin on Monday.&nbsp; He and his assistants plan to meet with each of the players individually. By then, more information may be available.

&nbsp;&nbsp;Long said some of those nearing graduation may decide not to play if the schedule remains unsettled. The NCAA has determined athletes who decide not to play because of the virus, but remain in school will retain their athletic scholarships.

&nbsp;Football players will be allowed to participate in up to five games before they would use a year of eligibility, Smith said.&nbsp; Similar rules are established for volleyball and other sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State hosted two three-day high school football team camps with nearly 800 participants and two one-day prospect camps, all in July, and received no reports of any COVID-19 problems following them, Long reported.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CSC also hosted volleyball and softball camps during the past month with no negative consequences.&nbsp;

By: Con Marshall, CSC Athletics&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The surprising (at least to fans) announcement late last week that the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference is suspending the fall seasons for football and volleyball probably won’t be the last word, according to Joel Smith, the Chadron State College athletic director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; More discussions are scheduled and some changes are anticipated as the NCAA, the conferences and the schools try to do what is best for the student-athletes and the athletic programs, he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith, who is chairman of the RMAC’s Competition Committee, said Monday morning that he already had four zoom meetings scheduled for this week, two of them at the national level and two at the conference level.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “We’re all trying to do the right thing,” Smith said. “We had to make the announcement last week because we had too many questions that were going to take some time to answer. He said they included testing for COVID-19, insurance coverage in case athletes are affected, eligibility of the athletes and scholarships.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The RMAC announcement said the fall sports competition would be moved to the spring, but that also spawned numerous questions, particularly concerning football because of weather implications.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Just a week earlier, the RMAC Presidents’ Council announced that conference-only contests would be played this fall, beginning Sept. 18 and 19. The Presidents’ Council also made last week’s decision suspending the fall football, volleyball and soccer seasons, but allowing cross county and golf to be played this fall because they are considered “low risk” sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Several other Division II conferences had made similar announcements prior to the RMAC decision. Now, it appears that all DII conferences have decided to forego competition in the “high risk” sports this fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Earlier last week, the NCAA Board of Governors and the DII Presidents’ Council mandated that no fall sports national championships will take place in 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While much remains uncertain, Smith said it’s possible football teams this fall may emulate what they’ve been doing in the spring and then play a limited schedule of games in the spring.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “There’s no way football will play 10 games in the spring and then play another 10 in the fall (of 2021), after we certainly hope everything is back to normal,” Smith said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He added that after visiting with some of his colleagues Monday, it seems probable that volleyball will switch nearly everything that usually takes place in the fall to spring.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NCAA rules state that coaches may have instructional contact with their athletes a total of 103 days annually. In the past for football, 15 of those days have been utilized in the spring and the remainder in the fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith added that the NCAA previously had decided that all athletes would have to take COVID tests through their nostrils 72 hours before the contests began.&nbsp; The process is expensive, but Smith said Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts had stated the state would assist with those costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Other members of RMAC had not received similar assurances at last report, Smith said.He also stated that the colleges’ current insurance does not cover payments for care necessitated by the virus, making it another item that likely will have to be settled before any competition takes place.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State Head Football Coach Jay Long called the scenario “pretty crazy.”&nbsp;“As coaches, we try to plan and be well organized and then things become so uncertain,” Long added. “That’s just the way things have happened.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long said at least 40 and maybe as many as 60 CSC football players have been living in Chadron this summer and working out four or five times a week on their own to get ready for the season.Some of them went home on Friday when they found out there would be no fall camp, which had been scheduled to start on Friday the 14th&nbsp;following the announcement that the Eagles’ first game would be Sept. 19 against South Dakota Mines in Rapid City.Long said he is hopeful that all of the players will be back this week to be ready when classes begin on Monday.&nbsp; He and his assistants plan to meet with each of the players individually. By then, more information may be available.&nbsp;&nbsp;Long said some of those nearing graduation may decide not to play if the schedule remains unsettled. The NCAA has determined athletes who decide not to play because of the virus, but remain in school will retain their athletic scholarships.&nbsp;Football players will be allowed to participate in up to five games before they would use a year of eligibility, Smith said.&nbsp; Similar rules are established for volleyball and other sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State hosted two three-day high school football team camps with nearly 800 participants and two one-day prospect camps, all in July, and received no reports of any COVID-19 problems following them, Long reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CSC also hosted volleyball and softball camps during the past month with no negative consequences.&nbsp;

RMAC's decision to postpone fall sports may not be the last word...

News Release NP Public Schools Foundation

The North Platte Public Schools Foundation was asked by Dr. Hanson and Stuart Simpson to help pull off a surprise for the teachers as they prepare for back to school.&nbsp; 

Board of Education Vice President JoAnn Lundgreen actually had the idea last fall before the pandemic.&nbsp; Dr. Hanson worked with some of the local businesses including NebraskaLand National Bank and the Foundation to secure $100 Wal-Mart Gift cards for all the teachers as they are preparing their classrooms.&nbsp; The support staff will be granted $75 towards the Foundation’s campaign of “Pay Green To Wear Blue”, which allows staff to wear jeans and a blue foundation t-shirt, which will be provided to them, on the last day of every week during the school year plus Dukin’ Donut stepped up to provide $10 gift cards to the support staff.&nbsp; 

“Supporting all the staff this year was very important to the Board.” Stated Josh Bedlan, Foundation Board President.

“We are grateful for everyone working together to start out the year on the right foot.” Said Terri Burchell, Executive Director.&nbsp; 

The Foundation knows this year there are still going to be needed for the classrooms.&nbsp; The “Pay Green To Wear Blue” campaign will be supporting the foundation and REACH Grants that are awarded to teachers that have innovative ideas for the classroom that maybe weren't in the budget. Since the program’s inception in 1998 over $200,000 has been given to educators to inspire students to reach their fullest potential.&nbsp; 

Some of the funds have supported challenging scientific exploration through after school STEAM programs, video equipment, real-life career through culinary arts and additional music materials just to name a few through the years. 

Anyone can invest in supporting the foundation and educators with REACH grants through the Foundation; giving online at&nbsp;<a href="http://nppsf.org/" target="_blank">nppsf.org</a>, or mailing to PO BOX 1557 North Platte, NE 69103.

News Release NP Public Schools FoundationThe North Platte Public Schools Foundation was asked by Dr. Hanson and Stuart Simpson to help pull off a surprise for the teachers as they prepare for back to school.&nbsp; Board of Education Vice President JoAnn Lundgreen actually had the idea last fall before the pandemic.&nbsp; Dr. Hanson worked with some of the local businesses including NebraskaLand National Bank and the Foundation to secure $100 Wal-Mart Gift cards for all the teachers as they are preparing their classrooms.&nbsp; The support staff will be granted $75 towards the Foundation’s campaign of “Pay Green To Wear Blue”, which allows staff to wear jeans and a blue foundation t-shirt, which will be provided to them, on the last day of every week during the school year plus Dukin’ Donut stepped up to provide $10 gift cards to the support staff.&nbsp; “Supporting all the staff this year was very important to the Board.” Stated Josh Bedlan, Foundation Board President.“We are grateful for everyone working together to start out the year on the right foot.” Said Terri Burchell, Executive Director.&nbsp; The Foundation knows this year there are still going to be needed for the classrooms.&nbsp; The “Pay Green To Wear Blue” campaign will be supporting the foundation and REACH Grants that are awarded to teachers that have innovative ideas for the classroom that maybe weren't in the budget. Since the program’s inception in 1998 over $200,000 has been given to educators to inspire students to reach their fullest potential.&nbsp; Some of the funds have supported challenging scientific exploration through after school STEAM programs, video equipment, real-life career through culinary arts and additional music materials just to name a few through the years. Anyone can invest in supporting the foundation and educators with REACH grants through the Foundation; giving online at&nbsp;<a href="http://nppsf.org/" target="_blank">nppsf.org</a>, or mailing to PO BOX 1557 North Platte, NE 69103.

North Platte Public Schools administrators give teachers 'Back-to-School Surprise'

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers advanced a property tax and business incentives package and new abortion restrictions through a key procedural vote on Tuesday, despite fervent opposition from some senators in the final days of this year's session.

Each measure won second-round approval in the Legislature, just ahead of the end-of-Tuesday deadline for bills to survive this year. They now head to a final, third vote on Thursday, the session's final day, and will then go to Gov. Pete Ricketts, who is expected to sign them.

The property tax and business incentives package were merged into one bill because neither measure had enough support to pass by itself. Rural lawmakers who want lower local property taxes initially threatened to block the business incentives bill, but politically powerful business groups argued that Nebraska can't be the only state without major tax incentives. The state's current business incentive program, the Nebraska Advantage Act, expires this year.

"We need to make a positive statement to the people of Nebraska, and I think the biggest risk is not to act," said Sen. John Stinner, of Gering, who helped negotiate the compromise package.

Still, the package drew criticism from some rural, conservative lawmakers, who said it didn't do enough for property owners. The property tax portion would offer a state tax credit to reimburse property owners for a part of what they pay to local schools. But in most cases, homeowners and farmers would still see an increase over the previous year because of rising property values.

"This is a decrease in the increase, call it what it is," said Sen. Steve Erdman, of Bayard.

Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, of Lincoln, said lawmakers focused too much on the needs of higher-income homeowners, farmers and businesses, and not enough on people who are struggling financially because of the coronavirus. She lamented that lawmakers didn't help renters facing evictions, meatpacking workers who are at higher risk of catching the virus, or workers who are still unemployed.

"When we are tone deaf to the needs of individual Nebraskans, we are not doing our jobs," Pansing Brooks said. "I am not proud of this session."

The business incentives package would offer tax credits to businesses that set up shop in Nebraska and create a certain number of high-paying jobs. The credits would vary based on how much money a company invests, the number of employees hired and the average salary paid.

Lawmakers also advanced a bill that would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8ca7e533ef1bc57b72414826a80565b0" target="_blank">restrict a second-trimester</a>&nbsp;abortion procedure known as a dilation and evacuation abortion. The bill would outlaw the use of clamps, forceps, tongs or scissors to perform the abortion. Opponents refer to it as a dismemberment abortion because it often requires doctors to remove a fetus in pieces.

"We are simply discontinuing a procedure which is inhumane," said Sen. Suzanne Geist, of Lincoln, the bill's sponsor.

Abortion-rights supporters said the bill is certain to face a court challenge and will likely get struck down as unconstitutional. Sen. Megan Hunt, of Omaha, said the abortion and property tax bills are "beneath the dignity of the work we are called here to do," given the economic damage wrought by the pandemic.

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska lawmakers advanced a property tax and business incentives package and new abortion restrictions through a key procedural vote on Tuesday, despite fervent opposition from some senators in the final days of this year's session.Each measure won second-round approval in the Legislature, just ahead of the end-of-Tuesday deadline for bills to survive this year. They now head to a final, third vote on Thursday, the session's final day, and will then go to Gov. Pete Ricketts, who is expected to sign them.The property tax and business incentives package were merged into one bill because neither measure had enough support to pass by itself. Rural lawmakers who want lower local property taxes initially threatened to block the business incentives bill, but politically powerful business groups argued that Nebraska can't be the only state without major tax incentives. The state's current business incentive program, the Nebraska Advantage Act, expires this year."We need to make a positive statement to the people of Nebraska, and I think the biggest risk is not to act," said Sen. John Stinner, of Gering, who helped negotiate the compromise package.Still, the package drew criticism from some rural, conservative lawmakers, who said it didn't do enough for property owners. The property tax portion would offer a state tax credit to reimburse property owners for a part of what they pay to local schools. But in most cases, homeowners and farmers would still see an increase over the previous year because of rising property values."This is a decrease in the increase, call it what it is," said Sen. Steve Erdman, of Bayard.Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, of Lincoln, said lawmakers focused too much on the needs of higher-income homeowners, farmers and businesses, and not enough on people who are struggling financially because of the coronavirus. She lamented that lawmakers didn't help renters facing evictions, meatpacking workers who are at higher risk of catching the virus, or workers who are still unemployed."When we are tone deaf to the needs of individual Nebraskans, we are not doing our jobs," Pansing Brooks said. "I am not proud of this session."The business incentives package would offer tax credits to businesses that set up shop in Nebraska and create a certain number of high-paying jobs. The credits would vary based on how much money a company invests, the number of employees hired and the average salary paid.Lawmakers also advanced a bill that would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8ca7e533ef1bc57b72414826a80565b0" target="_blank">restrict a second-trimester</a>&nbsp;abortion procedure known as a dilation and evacuation abortion. The bill would outlaw the use of clamps, forceps, tongs or scissors to perform the abortion. Opponents refer to it as a dismemberment abortion because it often requires doctors to remove a fetus in pieces."We are simply discontinuing a procedure which is inhumane," said Sen. Suzanne Geist, of Lincoln, the bill's sponsor.Abortion-rights supporters said the bill is certain to face a court challenge and will likely get struck down as unconstitutional. Sen. Megan Hunt, of Omaha, said the abortion and property tax bills are "beneath the dignity of the work we are called here to do," given the economic damage wrought by the pandemic.

Property tax, abortion bills set for final votes in Nebraska

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597152752181.png" alt="From the North Platte Police Department" />
 <figcaption>From the North Platte Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>

North Platte Police Call Log (August 10-11, 2020)

OMAHA, Neb.-Diplomas will be conferred on 240 University of Nebraska Medical Center students on Friday, Aug. 14. The following is a list of graduates from the College of Nursing, College of Allied Health Professions, College of Public Health and Graduate Studies organized by college, degree, and hometown. There are no formal ceremonies for summer graduation.

Some graduating students are not listed below as they have requested their information not be released to the public. They are, however, counted in the total number of students receiving degrees.

Post Masters Certificate in Nursing

Omaha -- Vikas Gulati, Rachel Harris, Derek Leas

China -- Yu Hang, Yongyue Qi, Xinyuan Xi, Yangyuna Yang, Zhen Ye, Jiayu Yu

Saudi Arabia -- Jawaher Alamoudi, Ahmed Wafi

COLLEGE OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS

Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging &amp; Therapeutic Science

Blair -- Kiley Gosker&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Carroll, IA -- Jessica Venner&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Sterling, MA -- Cory Keith&nbsp;(With Distinction)

Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Cytotechnology

Rocklin, CA -- Irina Atkins&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Clearwater, FL -- Deni Decolli&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)

Dallas, TX -- Sophia Daniels&nbsp;(With Distinction), Cassidy Jones

Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Kearney -- Bailey Schnitzler&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Atlantic, IA -- Erin Reed Shannon&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)

Post Baccauaureate Certificate in Radiation Therapy

Beaver Crossing -- Cacey Vavra&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Bennington -- Alexis Farris&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Kearney -- McKenna Butler&nbsp;(With Distinction)

Omaha -- Paige Bishop, Kathleen Johannesmeyer

Syracuse -- Logan Teten&nbsp;(With High Distinction)

Master of Health Professions Teaching &amp; Technology

OMAHA, Neb.-Diplomas will be conferred on 240 University of Nebraska Medical Center students on Friday, Aug. 14. The following is a list of graduates from the College of Nursing, College of Allied Health Professions, College of Public Health and Graduate Studies organized by college, degree, and hometown. There are no formal ceremonies for summer graduation.Some graduating students are not listed below as they have requested their information not be released to the public. They are, however, counted in the total number of students receiving degrees.COLLEGE OF NURSINGBachelor of Science in NursingColumbus -- Nathaniel MwangiFremont -- Sydney DiMiceliKearney -- Chantel StadlerLincoln -- Christy HochstetlerNorth Platte -- Jennifer CookOmaha -- Courtney Thinnes, Tatyana VanaOsmond -- Tiffany RiceScottsbluff -- Mary SanchezWaterbury -- Mariah KramerPost Masters Certificate in NursingBlair -- Amanda HallOmaha -- Elyssa Drouillard PetersCOLLEGE OF PUBLIC HEALTHCertificate in Public HealthChina -- Zenghan TongMaster of Public HealthLincoln -- Mikki SchantellSilver Spring, MD -- Spencer SterlingGRADUATE COLLEGEMaster of ScienceAurora -- Lucy ElgeOmaha -- Caroline Christy, Rachel WeberBatesville, IN -- Connor RoseIndonesia -- Rahmi AuliaSaudi Arabia -- Wafaa AldhafiriDoctor of PhilosophyLincoln -- Cassandra HaysOmaha -- Vikas Gulati, Rachel Harris, Derek LeasLeawood, KS -- Shruthishree AravindSt. Paul, MN -- Ryan KingGrand Forks, ND -- Jana ZwillingClearfield, PA -- Gwenndolyn PorterChina -- Yu Hang, Yongyue Qi, Xinyuan Xi, Yangyuna Yang, Zhen Ye, Jiayu YuIndia -- Paroma RoySaudi Arabia -- Jawaher Alamoudi, Ahmed WafiCOLLEGE OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONSBachelor of ScienceBurlingame, CA -- Shelbi DuncanDillon, CO -- Kelly McWhirterGlenwood Springs, CO -- Benjamin HerschMarietta, GA -- Robert JonesSmyrna, GA -- John Harrison IIICrescent City, IL -- Tyler ClayCrystal Lake, IL -- Kyle WhittierTremont, IL -- Austin WildermuthWichita, KS -- Crystal CowanKeithville, LA -- Garrett SimmonsChelsea, MI -- David ReynhoutJasper, MI -- Joshua SchroederEden, NC -- Danielle MinichelloLas Vegas, NV -- Aubrey BlanchetteSyracuse, NY -- Peter WattersMingo Junction, OH -- Sara CashdollarEaston, PA -- Jamie NigitoLancaster, SC -- Allison HaugeLexington, SC -- Kenneth BlindMyrtle Beach, SC -- Caitlyn CauseyNorfolk, VA -- Romeo SatsatinCheyenne, WY -- Nichole KilincNepal -- Rabina ShresthaBachelor of Science in Medical Imaging &amp; Therapeutic ScienceBellevue -- Amanda McManusBlair -- Kiley Gosker&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Lincoln -- Rachel SloupWest Fork, AR -- Victoria SeamanJacksonville, FL -- DeAnna BreauxCarroll, IA -- Jessica Venner&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Sterling, MA -- Cory Keith&nbsp;(With Distinction)Edmond, OK -- Sameer HasanCharlottesville, VA -- Ruzena JelinekPost Baccalaureate Certificate in CytotechnologyHastings -- Sarah JohnsonLincoln -- Victoria Sinclair HinrichsPayson, AZ -- Nisha EdwinRocklin, CA -- Irina Atkins&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Clearwater, FL -- Deni Decolli&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)Barry, IL -- Emily EhrhardtDallas, TX -- Sophia Daniels&nbsp;(With Distinction), Cassidy JonesEuless, TX -- Lorma SiasonFort Worth, TX -- Christi LincolnPost Baccalaureate Certificate in Diagnostic Medical SonographyBoelus -- Brooke ZentzKearney -- Bailey Schnitzler&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Omaha -- Katherine WhiteAtlantic, IA -- Erin Reed Shannon&nbsp;(With Highest Distinction)Post Baccauaureate Certificate in Radiation TherapyBeaver Crossing -- Cacey Vavra&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Bennington -- Alexis Farris&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Kearney -- McKenna Butler&nbsp;(With Distinction)Omaha -- Paige Bishop, Kathleen JohannesmeyerSyracuse -- Logan Teten&nbsp;(With High Distinction)Master of Perfusion ScienceWaldoboro, ME -- Nicholas AndersonHesperia, CA -- Benjamin PowellMaster of Health Professions Teaching &amp; TechnologyKearney -- Alisha WrightMaster of Physician Assistant StudiesNorthport, AL -- Christopher JonesOrlando, FL -- Lauren BentleyCumming, GA -- Tara WalkerHilo, HI -- Zachary HendersonBoise, ID -- Ryan MengesSt. Charles, IL -- Keith WonnebergManhattan, KS -- Cesserie MoyerWaterboro, ME -- Kevin LaRoseCherryville, NC -- Mathew SimmonsGastonia, NC -- Michelle FergusonSummerfield, NC -- Stephen ReidBrooklyn, NY -- Ian MukisaCleveland, OH -- Paul RozmanAnadarko, OK -- Luke BatesRoseburg, OR -- Gloria CalvilloSaint Helens, OR -- Lindsay MartinHome, PA -- Kayla MillerSumter, SC -- Elizabeth BrunsonCrossville, TN -- Nathan TollettSpringfield, TN -- Mercedes WittSan Antonio, TX -- Christopher Blankinship, Samuel Cabrera Jr.Puyallup, WA -- Jeffery LermaSpokane, WA -- Christopher LeBaron

UNMC to award degrees Aug. 14 to 240 students

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A legislative staffer who previously worked as a lobbyist and child advocate has been chosen as Nebraska's next inspector general for child welfare, officials announced Monday.

Jennifer Carter will serve as a legislative watchdog over Nebraska's child welfare services. She currently serves as a staff lawyer for the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee, and previously worked as a lobbyist and consultant and director of public policy for the group Nebraska Appleseed.

Carter will replace Julie Rogers, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/aa7f894a38f21a054275343f11c61a82" target="_blank">was chosen in January</a>&nbsp;to become Nebraska's state ombudsman. She will start in hew new role on Sept. 2.

Lawmakers created the inspector general for Nebraska child welfare in 2012 to add oversight to state child services within the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The inspector general conducts independent investigations into child welfare services and reports to the Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597147470626.png" alt="Jennifer Carter" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Carter</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A legislative staffer who previously worked as a lobbyist and child advocate has been chosen as Nebraska's next inspector general for child welfare, officials announced Monday.Jennifer Carter will serve as a legislative watchdog over Nebraska's child welfare services. She currently serves as a staff lawyer for the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee, and previously worked as a lobbyist and consultant and director of public policy for the group Nebraska Appleseed.Carter will replace Julie Rogers, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/aa7f894a38f21a054275343f11c61a82" target="_blank">was chosen in January</a>&nbsp;to become Nebraska's state ombudsman. She will start in hew new role on Sept. 2.Lawmakers created the inspector general for Nebraska child welfare in 2012 to add oversight to state child services within the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The inspector general conducts independent investigations into child welfare services and reports to the Legislature.

Nebraska hires new legislative child welfare watchdog

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department reported five new cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Monday.

All cases are under investigation, according to WCDHD.&nbsp;

There are currently 96 active cases in the WCDHD jurisdiction. There have been 173 confirmed cases since March. With 75 reported as recovered.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Officials with the West Central District Health Department reported five new cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County on Monday.All cases are under investigation, according to WCDHD.&nbsp;There are currently 96 active cases in the WCDHD jurisdiction. There have been 173 confirmed cases since March. With 75 reported as recovered.&nbsp;<figure>
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Officials report 5 new coronavirus cases in Lincoln County on Monday

News Release US Attorney's Office-Omaha

United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Edward Miller, age 44, formerly of Sidney, Nebraska, was sentenced today by Senior United States District Judge Laurie Smith Camp to 33 months’ imprisonment for the disposal of hazardous waste without a permit.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from the Bureau of Prisons, Miller will serve a three-year term of supervised release.&nbsp; Senior Judge Smith Camp ordered Miller to pay $25,471 in restitution.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the primary federal law regulating the generation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Objectives of the RCRA include, among others things, protection of human health and the environment through stringent regulating guidelines.&nbsp; The disposal of hazardous waste is prohibited except in accordance with a RCRA permit.

An investigation conducted by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division determined that on October 24, 2017, Miller loaded a truck and flatbed trailer with various chemicals, which included pesticides, from a warehouse at Renkoski Property Development located in Sidney, Cheyenne County, Nebraska.&nbsp; The containers of chemicals were hazardous wastes due to their corrosivity and ignitability characteristics.&nbsp; Later that day, Miller drove the truck and flatbed trailer with the hazardous wastes through the District of Nebraska, where defendant, without a RCRA permit, disposed of the hazardous wastes by dumping, spilling, and placing the hazardous wastes at three undeveloped sites along South T Road approximately three miles south of Aurora, Hamilton County, Nebraska.&nbsp;

“The defendant’s disregard for the law created serious human health and environmental hazards,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cate Holston of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas.  “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for violations that endanger our communities, first responders and the environment.”

This case was investigated by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division.

News Release US Attorney's Office-OmahaUnited States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Edward Miller, age 44, formerly of Sidney, Nebraska, was sentenced today by Senior United States District Judge Laurie Smith Camp to 33 months’ imprisonment for the disposal of hazardous waste without a permit.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from the Bureau of Prisons, Miller will serve a three-year term of supervised release.&nbsp; Senior Judge Smith Camp ordered Miller to pay $25,471 in restitution.The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the primary federal law regulating the generation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Objectives of the RCRA include, among others things, protection of human health and the environment through stringent regulating guidelines.&nbsp; The disposal of hazardous waste is prohibited except in accordance with a RCRA permit.An investigation conducted by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division determined that on October 24, 2017, Miller loaded a truck and flatbed trailer with various chemicals, which included pesticides, from a warehouse at Renkoski Property Development located in Sidney, Cheyenne County, Nebraska.&nbsp; The containers of chemicals were hazardous wastes due to their corrosivity and ignitability characteristics.&nbsp; Later that day, Miller drove the truck and flatbed trailer with the hazardous wastes through the District of Nebraska, where defendant, without a RCRA permit, disposed of the hazardous wastes by dumping, spilling, and placing the hazardous wastes at three undeveloped sites along South T Road approximately three miles south of Aurora, Hamilton County, Nebraska.&nbsp;“The defendant’s disregard for the law created serious human health and environmental hazards,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cate Holston of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas.  “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for violations that endanger our communities, first responders and the environment.”This case was investigated by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division.

Former Sidney man sentenced for dumping hazardous waste without permit

North Platte Public Schools has now entered orange in the Master Pandemic Plan and School Playbooks.

Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in the West Central District Health Department area, and more specifically, North Platte, NPPS will now function in the more stringent category of orange.&nbsp; We encourage families and staff to familiarize themselves with this change in category.&nbsp; Below you will find critical information that will be in effect immediately.

The up to date Master Plan and School Playbooks are located on the NPPSD website at; <a href="http://nppsd.org/" target="_blank">nppsd.org</a>, Quicklinks, COVID-19 Resources, or Student &amp; Parents tab, COVID-19 Resources.

1. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Face Coverings are now required for all staff, students, and approved visitors.&nbsp; Approved visitors are defined as individuals who have gained clearance to be on the premises through the building administrator before arriving at the facility.

2. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Transportation for Madison and Adams will be conducted.&nbsp; Please see the Master Pandemic Plan and School Playbooks for details.

3. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; All volunteer organizations have been suspended until further notice.&nbsp; This includes but is not limited to; PTA, PTO, TeamMates, Foster Grandparents, and RSVP.&nbsp; This suspension includes all NPPS properties both inside and outside of the buildings.

4. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Remote learning is an option through NPPS.&nbsp; Learners choosing this option will be allowed to participate in school activities as long as they meet all NSAA regulations.&nbsp; Please reach out to the activities office at 308-535-3418 with questions about the NSAA regulations.&nbsp; Please reach out to your building administrator to request remote learning as an option for your student/s.

North Platte Public Schools will continue to err on the side of caution as we continue through this ever-changing pandemic.&nbsp; We ask that our community remember we are facing times, unlike anything we have previously endured. We will do so with the advice of our federal, state, and local education and health officials.&nbsp; This does mean that all NPPS plans are subject to change at a moment’s notice.&nbsp; Our goal as a district is to educate our students in a healthy, safe, and supportive environment, all while maintaining a workforce of healthy educators and staff.&nbsp; Additionally, we will take all precautions possible to continue in-person education.

Families are encouraged to reach out to their building administrators with specific questions regarding their student/s

North Platte Public Schools has now entered orange in the Master Pandemic Plan and School Playbooks. Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in the West Central District Health Department area, and more specifically, North Platte, NPPS will now function in the more stringent category of orange.&nbsp; We encourage families and staff to familiarize themselves with this change in category.&nbsp; Below you will find critical information that will be in effect immediately.The up to date Master Plan and School Playbooks are located on the NPPSD website at; <a href="http://nppsd.org/" target="_blank">nppsd.org</a>, Quicklinks, COVID-19 Resources, or Student &amp; Parents tab, COVID-19 Resources.Updated Protocols:1. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Face Coverings are now required for all staff, students, and approved visitors.&nbsp; Approved visitors are defined as individuals who have gained clearance to be on the premises through the building administrator before arriving at the facility.2. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Transportation for Madison and Adams will be conducted.&nbsp; Please see the Master Pandemic Plan and School Playbooks for details.3. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; All volunteer organizations have been suspended until further notice.&nbsp; This includes but is not limited to; PTA, PTO, TeamMates, Foster Grandparents, and RSVP.&nbsp; This suspension includes all NPPS properties both inside and outside of the buildings.4. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Remote learning is an option through NPPS.&nbsp; Learners choosing this option will be allowed to participate in school activities as long as they meet all NSAA regulations.&nbsp; Please reach out to the activities office at 308-535-3418 with questions about the NSAA regulations.&nbsp; Please reach out to your building administrator to request remote learning as an option for your student/s.North Platte Public Schools will continue to err on the side of caution as we continue through this ever-changing pandemic.&nbsp; We ask that our community remember we are facing times, unlike anything we have previously endured. We will do so with the advice of our federal, state, and local education and health officials.&nbsp; This does mean that all NPPS plans are subject to change at a moment’s notice.&nbsp; Our goal as a district is to educate our students in a healthy, safe, and supportive environment, all while maintaining a workforce of healthy educators and staff.&nbsp; Additionally, we will take all precautions possible to continue in-person education.Families are encouraged to reach out to their building administrators with specific questions regarding their student/s

North Platte Public Schools to require masks for staff, students, visitors

Over the years, Nebraska has decided against allowing casino gambling in the Good Life—and for good reason.&nbsp; Gambling can ruin families, hurt communities, and pile on new costs to the state.&nbsp; By keeping Nebraska casino-free, our state has minimized the social harms associated with problem gambling.&nbsp; In fact, research shows that Nebraska ranks as the fourth-least gambling-addicted state in America.&nbsp;

Governor's Weekly ColumnBy Governor Pete RickettsOver the years, Nebraska has decided against allowing casino gambling in the Good Life—and for good reason.&nbsp; Gambling can ruin families, hurt communities, and pile on new costs to the state.&nbsp; By keeping Nebraska casino-free, our state has minimized the social harms associated with problem gambling.&nbsp; In fact, research shows that Nebraska ranks as the fourth-least gambling-addicted state in America.&nbsp;It’s not just about the rankings.&nbsp; There’s a real human cost to casinos.&nbsp; When thinking about casino gambling, it’s important to remember that the house always wins.&nbsp; The allure of hitting the jackpot overshadows the more common reality of players going broke chasing the dream of winning it all.&nbsp; In 2017, Americans lost $107 billion from all forms of legalized gambling.These losses are a reflection of one of the sad realities of gambling: It can be a habit-forming and addictive activity.&nbsp; While some gamblers harmlessly lose a little cash, others have a harder time knowing when to stop.&nbsp; Compulsive gamblers get a “high” from gambling that rewires the neural circuitry of the brain much like an addictive drug.&nbsp; As with drug abuse, gambling addiction leads to anti-social and self-destructive behaviors.&nbsp;Even without casinos, Nebraska already experiences some of the negative impacts from gambling on our communities.&nbsp; The Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling offers counseling to individuals with gambling disorders and their families through its Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP). &nbsp;From July 1, 2018 to April 30, 2020, GAP provided long-term counseling to 280 Nebraskans.&nbsp; Surveys of these individuals reveal the financial distress and mental health challenges common to problem gamblers.&nbsp; Thirty percent of participants said they had considered suicide in the past year.&nbsp; For those who reported gambling debts, the average amount owed was over $28,000.&nbsp; This nearly equaled the group’s median annual income.&nbsp; Half of those receiving counseling services earned less than $30,000 a year.&nbsp;Financial crimes aren’t the only negative effects of problem gambling.&nbsp; It shatters relationships and destroys families.&nbsp; Time and money spent gambling can wreck a marriage or lead to child neglect.&nbsp; The financial pressure of gambling losses can also motivate domestic violence or child abuse.&nbsp; Additionally, the stress of gambling debt may trigger anxiety, depression, and behavioral health disorders.&nbsp;Problem gamblers also hurt our communities when they commit crimes like embezzlement, forgery, and theft to finance their addiction.&nbsp; For example, in 2012 a Nebraska State Senator pled guilty to illegally spending campaign funds at casinos in Kansas.&nbsp; In 2016 a Lincoln pharmacist was sentenced to nine years in prison after defrauding Nebraska’s Medicaid program of $14.4 million.&nbsp; He squandered the money playing craps and blackjack at casinos in Council Bluffs.&nbsp; Also in 2016, a bookkeeper at an Omaha travel agency was arrested for stealing $1.2 million from her employer to cover gambling losses incurred at Iowa casinos.&nbsp;Many try to argue that we need casino gambling because they say that it would be a financial windfall to the State with no strings attached.&nbsp; This kind of thinking is short-sighted.&nbsp; For every $1 a community gains from casino gambling, it pays $3 in social costs.&nbsp; These costs go toward regulating the casino industry and dealing with the many negative side effects of problem gambling, such as child abuse, spousal abuse, crime, family breakdown, and bankruptcy.&nbsp; Legalizing casinos to improve the state’s budget situation makes about as much financial sense as playing the slots to get rich.&nbsp;&nbsp;In light of the social costs, it’s also unfair to argue that governments should allow casino gambling in order to generate tax revenues.&nbsp; Low-income Americans disproportionately struggle with problem gambling, and the net outcome of casino gambling is to transfer money from the poor to the rich.&nbsp; The Open Door Mission in Omaha serves many people who are impacted by gambling addictions.&nbsp; In self-disclosed surveys of the homeless people they serve, they have studied the impact of casino gambling.&nbsp; Before casinos came to Council Bluffs, about nine percent of the homeless people they serve came to them due to gambling.&nbsp; After the casinos, about 36 percent of the homeless people they serve disclose that they are experiencing homelessness due to gambling addictions.As you can see, the harms of gambling are very real.&nbsp; We can all do something about it.&nbsp; By detecting warning signs of problem gambling, Nebraskans can seek help before a gambling disorder spirals out of control.&nbsp; According to GAP, these signs include:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Someone betting more than they can afford to lose·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gambling more to win back money lost·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Borrowing money or selling something to gamble·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Experiencing health or financial problems associated with gambling·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Feeling guilty about gambling·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Needing to bet ever-increasing amounts of money to feel the same level of excitementIf you—or someone you love—show signs of having a gambling disorder, please call the State’s 24-hour problem gambling helpline at 1-833-238-6837.&nbsp; There’s no charge to get help, and all calls are confidential.&nbsp; You can also go to the Commission on Problem Gambling’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://problemgambling.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the free counseling services available through the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program.If you have questions about the harms of gambling or any other topics, you can send me an email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244. &nbsp;

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