OMAHA, NE, (September 17, 2024) – During National Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 15-21), AAA and the National Safety Council (NSC) are releasing a safety alert for parents. 

A new AAA analysis of five years of government crash data reveals a concerning trend: child seat and booster use declines after a child turns three, despite the continued need for these safety devices. In Nebraska 85% of parents and caregivers transitioned their children to an adult seatbelt too soon and 23% transitioned to a booster seat too soon. This is alarming, as over four million children aged 11 and under were involved in car crashes, from 2018 to 2022, resulting in 547,000 injuries and nearly 3,000 fatalities.

“We know parents and caregivers go to great lengths to protect their children,” said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Yet, even with the best intentions, parents may unknowingly endanger their children by putting them in the wrong seat or not securing them properly. Since safety recommendations can vary as your child grows, AAA urges parents to take a moment to understand what type of child restraint to use and when.”

According to the National Digital Car Seat Check Form (NDCF) database, of the car seats inspected in 2023, 74% were not used properly or incorrectly installed. The three most common misuses were:

Not using the tether when installing a forward-facing car seat with either the lower anchors or seat belt.

The harness is too loose when securing a child in a car seat.

When used correctly, car seats, booster seats, and seat belts protect young passengers. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, child restraints reduce fatalities by 71% for infants younger than one and by 54% for children 1 to 4 years old in passenger cars.

Find the right car seat. Types of seats vary based on their age, weight and height. Click here

Install your car seat correctly. Review instructions and video tutorials.

Get your car seat inspected. Click here to find a car seat inspection provider near you.

Ensure safety belts fit properly every time. The placement of the safety harness or seat belt can be critical.

Register your car seat. Sign up for recall notices to receive safety updates.

“Parents are often eager to turn their young children forward-facing in their car seats too soon,” Ortner said. “However, due to their underdeveloped bodies, young children below the age of two who ride forward-facing are at a greater risk of head, neck and spinal cord injuries if involved in a collision.”

If you’re not sure when to move your child to the next type of car seat, look to these stages:

Rear-facing safety seat: Children should stay rear-facing as long as possible, up to the limits of the car safety seat. This includes almost all children under 2.

Forward-facing safety seat, with harness: Many seats can take children up to 60 pounds or more. When they are ready and exceed the seat’s limits, move to a belt-positioning booster seat.

Belt-positioning booster seat: Use until the vehicle’s lap and shoulder seat belts fit properly—generally when children are at least 4 feet, 9 inches tall (usually 8 to 12 years old).

Front seat versus back seat: All children younger than 13 should be restrained in the rear seats. Young children riding in the front seat can be injured or even killed if an air bag opens.

Every state has different laws on child passenger seats. In Nebraska the law requires:

All children up to age eight must ride correctly secured in a federally-approved car seat or booster seat.

Children ride rear-facing until up to age two or until they reach the upper weight or height limit allowed by the car seat's manufacturer.

Children up to age eight must ride in the back seat, as long as there is a back seat equipped with a seatbelt and is not already occupied by other children under eight years of age.

Children ages eight to eighteen must ride secured in a safety belt or child safety seat (booster seat).

Childcare providers must transport all children securely in an appropriate federally-approved car seat, booster seat or seat belt.

Children up to age eighteen are prohibited from riding in cargo areas.

A violation carries a $25 fine plus court costs and 1 point is assessed against the operator's driving record. 

Nebraska Child Safety Restraint Law: 60-6,267  &amp; 60-6,268  ​

When is Your Child is Ready for an Adult Seat Belt?

“Seat belts are designed for adults, not children,” Ortner said. “A seat belt that does not fit correctly, could cause injury in the event of a crash.”

Seat belts are about height not age. Check the following before moving your child to an adult seat belt:

Your child’s knees bend at the edge of the seat when the back and bottom are against the vehicle seat back. Feet should touch the floor for comfort and stability.

The vehicle lap belt fits snugly across the hips or upper thighs.

The shoulder belt fits across the shoulder and chest, NOT across the face or neck.

If your child does not meet all three of these conditions, they should continue using a car seat or booster seat until they get taller.

According to AAA’s analysis, the latest government data reflects a need for parents to ensure they use the correct child restraint system for each growth phase.

Every child deserves protection. Nearly 4 in 10 (37%) children aged 7-11 killed in a car crash were completely unrestrained. For the youngest children, aged 0-3, 1 in 4 (26%) who were killed were unrestrained. Parents and caregivers are good at getting expert help when children are less than one year old or before birth, but they do not always come back for adjustments as the child ages. According to the NDCF, Child Passenger Safety Technicians inspect about five times the number of rear-facing car seats compared to forward-facing car seats, and 83.5% of those were not used correctly. 

It’s about height, not age. Children are often transitioned out of the appropriate car seats before it is safe. According to the NDCF, 24.9% of children move to booster seats too soon, and 93.6% transition to a seat belt too soon. Many parents may not know that seat belt fit is more about their child’s height than age. Based on their size, some children older than ten years old may benefit from using a booster seat. Most booster seats accommodate children up to a height of 57 inches.

Find child passenger safety resources by state, including how to get a car seat checked, occupant protection laws, and answers to car seat questions. Click here to learn more. 

Check online virtually. Without local resources, a child's car seat can be checked virtually through an online meeting with National Safety Council staff. Click here to learn more.

“AAA is dedicated to ensuring children are safe while traveling in a car,” continued Ortner. “ACG is proud to partner with Safe Kids Worldwide to educate families and provide safety devices, car and booster seats, and bike helmets, to communities that may have not had access to these resources.”

The statistics on child restraint use in car crashes are based on data compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation and analyzed by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Statistics are based on children riding as passengers in cars, minivans, vans, pickup trucks, and SUVs involved in police-reported crashes between 2018 and 2022. For more, visit AAAFoundation.org or find a AAA office near you at AAA.com.    

In partnership with AAA and the National Safety Council, Westat researchers examined data submitted to the National Digital Car Seat Check Form (NDCF), a national database of detailed information on car seat inspections performed by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs). The final dataset used for analysis represents all 50 states and includes 71,808 car seat inspections performed between January 1, 2023 and December 31, 2023

The National Safety Council is America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate – and has been for 110 years. As a mission-based organization, we work to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing our efforts on the workplace and roadways. We create a culture of safety to not only keep people safer at work, but also beyond the workplace so they can live their fullest lives.

AAOMAHA, NE,&nbsp;(September 17, 2024) – During National Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 15-21), AAA and the National Safety Council (NSC) are releasing a safety alert for parents.&nbsp;

A new AAA analysis of five years of government crash data reveals a concerning trend: child seat and booster use declines after a child turns three, despite the continued need for these safety devices. In Nebraska 85% of parents and caregivers transitioned their children to an adult seatbelt too soon and 23% transitioned to a booster seat too soon. This is alarming, as&nbsp;over&nbsp;four million children aged 11 and under were involved in car crashes, from 2018 to 2022, resulting in 547,000 injuries and nearly 3,000 fatalities.

“We know parents and caregivers go to great lengths to protect their children,” said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group.&nbsp;“Yet, even with the best intentions, parents may unknowingly endanger their children by putting them in the wrong seat or not securing them properly. Since safety recommendations can vary as your child grows, AAA urges parents to take a moment to&nbsp;understand what type of child restraint to use and when.”

According to the National Digital Car Seat Check Form (NDCF) database, of the car seats inspected in 2023,&nbsp;74% were not used properly or incorrectly installed. The three most common misuses were:

When used correctly, car seats, booster seats, and seat belts protect young passengers. According to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC5rw9tW76jQ8dNO3BQXNJ27hvjIBlOGJNMmaioSfPT3fd-2FNR6TnAeskOJXC10KDnpr7vmXjB35-2FcEj6du-2FgvE2Cj49s8HDmHmKFT1g6fGqxS8w0f4h8G7JrRdK1ikh7F4bTNfWLIIzPKzHfKjSkOoZAht3bNZ3jbuQYE7fjQDm0Bo0Cmu8CfpfyfWEDb5LKgXet2bcacCIAftgcCb2CBZD-2F-2BDFj-2FtpFsNzc-2Fv-2FRZ6ajAluHnYR7wvQdk4pCsD-2BW-2B5g-3D-3Dvmmz_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsmOXCB0QXKTVWYmorXs5sBFPDEjGgr7zyPKlvloMr7NCLTYu3d7X0O-2FeY9tXFWor-2BjOUlCSR-2FVxlRAoBHe8AkMd4F-2FBZgLzkJLJpE8IgYfXx42wwMOOiMuW0QUsbbSrZPTDkZq9kK0JJIxucOBruHTzi5cqjjC0HOTGAwgIoBMjWtIyOs32QE22vI9OxBoso9BRGGfaErpEshtFOG65-2F38iahuIWH8oapDJYg6ngUvpqOm8jQ5XXkUWgwAX-2B-2BiMPZOJzNC1955DG9LyJ-2BPB9aU-3D">U.S. Department of Transportation</a>, child restraints reduce fatalities by 71% for infants younger than one and by 54% for children 1 to 4 years old in passenger cars.

According to AAA’s analysis, the latest government data reflects a need for parents to&nbsp;ensure they use the correct child restraint system for each growth phase.

“AAA is dedicated to ensuring children are safe while traveling in a car,” continued Ortner. “ACG is proud to partner with Safe Kids Worldwide to educate families and provide safety devices, car and booster seats, and bike helmets, to communities that may have not had access to these resources.”&nbsp;

The statistics on child restraint use in car crashes are based on data compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation and analyzed by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Statistics are based on children riding as passengers in cars, minivans, vans, pickup trucks, and SUVs involved in police-reported crashes between 2018 and 2022. For more, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2fShN2Q-2FDbJuybXDjmDrKmvsjK5Nmn-2FX8z3VE7HjL9z2eb7_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsmOXCB0QXKTVWYmorXs5sBFPDEjGgr7zyPKlvloMr7NCLTYu3d7X0O-2FeY9tXFWor-2BjOUlCSR-2FVxlRAoBHe8AkMd4F-2FBZgLzkJLJpE8IgYfXx42wwMOOiMuW0QUsbbSrZFMszzoWdDoOqcv3NEL09-2FFkX1XDwXFrU-2FLx1tEVME0KhqQzrjeIRvet2go2IH8nUma-2Fv7K5nrS5F26n1kRfa1BLf2ENT-2FPpCQ1eY-2BaKtGVBxNfM1JnhRBMjZAWniSw7Q8ix-2FP9i6jgLDGvNIUg1w5w-3D">AAAFoundation.org</a>&nbsp;or find a&nbsp;AAA office near you at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.WCX-2FYdcTM3tdlYMWGxIa2VjZGKDDoD-2BRqJTt92U0gkg-3Da3f2_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsmOXCB0QXKTVWYmorXs5sBFPDEjGgr7zyPKlvloMr7NCLTYu3d7X0O-2FeY9tXFWor-2BjOUlCSR-2FVxlRAoBHe8AkMd4F-2FBZgLzkJLJpE8IgYfXx42wwMOOiMuW0QUsbbSrZGsuXCHLfmshvziez-2FNzucBRYoXsIzLyQFxaQaZK-2B86o2lLBjrY-2FAfc7PLLsgKMCZKnA7PJ3Po44O4nxD2PViqZsCGIef0lrYy4OmifyZdC5OwiCLh0djG9r8GK-2FUvnsa2iRgUAy5V3BUGU7xmOZf3E-3D">AAA.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Baby on Board, But Is Baby Properly Buckled?

MARTIN COUNTY, Florida— The sheriff's office in Martin County, Florida released new body camera video Monday night of the arrest of&nbsp; 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh. He is the suspect in the assassination attempt of Former President Donald Trump.

In Federal court Monday, Routh was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

MARTIN COUNTY, Florida— The sheriff's office in Martin County, Florida released new body camera video Monday night of the arrest of&nbsp; 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh. He is the suspect in the assassination attempt of Former President Donald Trump.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMartinCountySheriffsOffice%2Fvideos%2F1805385979995807%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=7" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>In Federal court Monday, Routh was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMartinCountySheriffsOffice%2Fvideos%2F2214283825615030%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=1" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥 New bodycam footage of arrest of Trump would-be assassin

UNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

&nbsp; Lincoln, Neb., Sept. 16, 2024 —The Nebraska Cooperative Development Center and Nebraska Grocery Industry Association are hosting the second annual Grocery Industry Summit on Oct. 3 in Kearney. This summit is rescheduled from the previous session, which was cancelled in August.

At the summit, grocers, wholesalers, vendors, policymakers and other stakeholders will share in the unique opportunity to collaborate and discuss best practices for tackling the challenges facing the grocery industry.

The summit will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Younes Conference Center South, 416 W. Talmadge Road. Registration is open on the&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0Olu2Y2hi_HynuovbHLDIXii" target="_blank">grocery association website</a>.

In addition to networking opportunities, the agenda includes discussions on the impact of dollar store competition, the advancement of retail technology, and strategies for workforce incentives and training. Keynote speaker Sen. Teresa Ibach will discuss state and federal regulations and opportunities related to Nebraska’s grocery industry.

“Creating a platform for industry professionals to come together and share insights is vital,” said Ansley Fellers, executive director of the grocery association. “Yes, we will be discussing challenges. But we’re also focusing on exploring and discovering new opportunities for the grocery industry and fostering collaboration across the state."

Charlotte Narjes, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska Extension educator and director of the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center, emphasized the different business models and efforts that can help local markets succeed, including keeping equipment up to date and collaborating to minimize transportation costs, especially when facing the burgeoning dollar store market.

“It’s not uncommon for small communities to lose their grocery stores, leaving residents without easy or affordable access to food,” Narjes said. “At this summit, we’ll explore different cooperative business models, as well as navigating incoming dollar stores, to keep continuity and affordability, and resiliency, in our communities.”

The summit will cater to those affiliated with grocery stores, as well as grocery-related cooperatives and limited liability companies. Attendees will explore solutions and strategies to maximize infrastructure, capital and labor costs in the grocery sector.

“The grocery industry isn’t the same today as it was 10 or 15 years ago,” Fellers said. “We’re aiming to help Nebraskans involved in this field — whether that be store owners, wholesalers or vendors — not just get by, but actually thrive, which, in turn, helps bring fresh, affordable and healthy foods to everyone in their communities.”

Russell ShafferUNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources&nbsp; Lincoln, Neb., Sept. 16, 2024 —The Nebraska Cooperative Development Center and Nebraska Grocery Industry Association are hosting the second annual Grocery Industry Summit on Oct. 3 in Kearney. This summit is rescheduled from the previous session, which was cancelled in August.At the summit, grocers, wholesalers, vendors, policymakers and other stakeholders will share in the unique opportunity to collaborate and discuss best practices for tackling the challenges facing the grocery industry.The summit will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Younes Conference Center South, 416 W. Talmadge Road. Registration is open on the&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0Olu2Y2hi_HynuovbHLDIXii" target="_blank">grocery association website</a>.In addition to networking opportunities, the agenda includes discussions on the impact of dollar store competition, the advancement of retail technology, and strategies for workforce incentives and training. Keynote speaker Sen. Teresa Ibach will discuss state and federal regulations and opportunities related to Nebraska’s grocery industry.“Creating a platform for industry professionals to come together and share insights is vital,” said Ansley Fellers, executive director of the grocery association. “Yes, we will be discussing challenges. But we’re also focusing on exploring and discovering new opportunities for the grocery industry and fostering collaboration across the state."Charlotte Narjes, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska Extension educator and director of the Nebraska Cooperative Development Center, emphasized the different business models and efforts that can help local markets succeed, including keeping equipment up to date and collaborating to minimize transportation costs, especially when facing the burgeoning dollar store market.“It’s not uncommon for small communities to lose their grocery stores, leaving residents without easy or affordable access to food,” Narjes said. “At this summit, we’ll explore different cooperative business models, as well as navigating incoming dollar stores, to keep continuity and affordability, and resiliency, in our communities.”The summit will cater to those affiliated with grocery stores, as well as grocery-related cooperatives and limited liability companies. Attendees will explore solutions and strategies to maximize infrastructure, capital and labor costs in the grocery sector.“The grocery industry isn’t the same today as it was 10 or 15 years ago,” Fellers said. “We’re aiming to help Nebraskans involved in this field — whether that be store owners, wholesalers or vendors — not just get by, but actually thrive, which, in turn, helps bring fresh, affordable and healthy foods to everyone in their communities.”

Grocery Industry Summit to address retail technology, competition

At approximately 11:10 am on 9/15/24, officers were dispatched to 416 Errebo Place on a disturbance call. Upon arrival, Gregory L. Buethe M/W DOB 06/23/87 was cursing, screaming, and refused to talk to officers. The suspect's mother told police that Mr. Buethe is off his meds and has a history of mental illness. Today, he broke a window in the home and assaulted his mother by throwing a table at her, causing a knee injury.

Officers attempted to interview Mr. Buethe, however despite efforts to deescalate the situation, he became more agitated and violent toward officers. Mr. Buethe picked up a large piece of wood and threw it at Sergeant David LaDuke, causing a fracture to his leg.

At that time, officers deployed a Taser to attempt to gain control of the suspect. The Taser had minimal effect, and the suspect retreated into the home. Additional officers were summoned to the scene and surrounded the house.

After interviewing the suspect’s mother and brother, it was determined that there were no guns in the home and no reason to believe the suspect was armed. Once sufficient manpower was on the scene, officers made entry into the home and took the suspect into custody.

Although no additional force was used to take the suspect into custody, Sergeant Tim Peterson was assaulted during the arrest when the suspect struck him in the groin.

The suspect was transported to the Box Butte County Jail and will face multiple charges including assault on his mother as well as the officers and resisting arrest.

Sergeant LaDuke was transported to Box Butte General Hospital where he is being treated for his injuries. The suspect’s mother was also transported to Box Butte County General for her injury.

Special thanks to the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alliance Fire Department for their assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726444578088.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Alliance Police DepartmentAt approximately 11:10 am on 9/15/24, officers were dispatched to 416 Errebo Place on a disturbance call. Upon arrival, Gregory L. Buethe M/W DOB 06/23/87 was cursing, screaming, and refused to talk to officers. The suspect's mother told police that Mr. Buethe is off his meds and has a history of mental illness. Today, he broke a window in the home and assaulted his mother by throwing a table at her, causing a knee injury.Officers attempted to interview Mr. Buethe, however despite efforts to deescalate the situation, he became more agitated and violent toward officers. Mr. Buethe picked up a large piece of wood and threw it at Sergeant David LaDuke, causing a fracture to his leg.At that time, officers deployed a Taser to attempt to gain control of the suspect. The Taser had minimal effect, and the suspect retreated into the home. Additional officers were summoned to the scene and surrounded the house.After interviewing the suspect’s mother and brother, it was determined that there were no guns in the home and no reason to believe the suspect was armed. Once sufficient manpower was on the scene, officers made entry into the home and took the suspect into custody.Although no additional force was used to take the suspect into custody, Sergeant Tim Peterson was assaulted during the arrest when the suspect struck him in the groin.The suspect was transported to the Box Butte County Jail and will face multiple charges including assault on his mother as well as the officers and resisting arrest.Sergeant LaDuke was transported to Box Butte General Hospital where he is being treated for his injuries. The suspect’s mother was also transported to Box Butte County General for her injury.Special thanks to the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alliance Fire Department for their assistance.

Alliance Police Sergeant Injured During Barricaded Suspect Incident

Alliance, Neb. - At approximately 10:00 pm on September 14th , officers were dispatched to 2652 Marvin Circle for a reported assault. On arrival, George Coulton King was found with multiple stab wounds to his arms and neck. After interviewing the victim, police learned that the assault had occurred at 113 Yellowstone&nbsp;during an argument with his child’s mother, Valerie Cerny F/W DOB 5/26/00.

Upon being interviewed by officers, Ms. Cerny admitted that she had stabbed Mr. King repeatedly during an argument which became heated and that her intent was to kill him.

Ms. Cerny is currently housed in the Box Butte County Jail pending a hearing on domestic related attempted 1st Degree Homicide.

By Alliance Police DepartmentAlliance, Neb. - At approximately 10:00 pm on September 14th , officers were dispatched to 2652 Marvin Circle for a reported assault. On arrival, George Coulton King was found with multiple stab wounds to his arms and neck. After interviewing the victim, police learned that the assault had occurred at 113 Yellowstone&nbsp;during an argument with his child’s mother, Valerie Cerny F/W DOB 5/26/00.Upon being interviewed by officers, Ms. Cerny admitted that she had stabbed Mr. King repeatedly during an argument which became heated and that her intent was to kill him.Ms. Cerny is currently housed in the Box Butte County Jail pending a hearing on domestic related attempted 1st Degree Homicide.

Alliance Woman Charged With Attempted Homicide

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen offered the following statement regarding the status of consideration for a special session on restoring winner-take-all (WTA) to Nebraska’s allocation of electoral college votes:

“As Governor of Nebraska, I will never waver&nbsp;in my commitment to do what is right for our state. As I have consistently made clear, I strongly support statewide unity and joining 48 other states by awarding all five of our electoral college votes to the presidential candidate who wins the majority of Nebraskans’ votes. As I have also made clear, I am willing to convene the Legislature for a special session to fix this 30-year-old problem before the 2024 election. However, I must receive clear and public indication that 33 senators are willing to vote in such a session to restore winner-take-all. I have been consistent and clear on this issue, and likewise expect members of the Legislature to do the same so that we as leaders are transparent and accountable to Nebraskans.

Consistent with those principles, I and other conservatives have worked diligently to assess legislative support for WTA in a pre-election special session. At this time, I have not yet received the concrete and public indication that 33 senators would vote for WTA. If that changes, I will enthusiastically call a special session.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen offered the following statement regarding the status of consideration for a special session on restoring winner-take-all (WTA) to Nebraska’s allocation of electoral college votes:“As Governor of Nebraska, I will never waver&nbsp;in my commitment to do what is right for our state. As I have consistently made clear, I strongly support statewide unity and joining 48 other states by awarding all five of our electoral college votes to the presidential candidate who wins the majority of Nebraskans’ votes. As I have also made clear, I am willing to convene the Legislature for a special session to fix this 30-year-old problem before the 2024 election. However, I must receive clear and public indication that 33 senators are willing to vote in such a session to restore winner-take-all. I have been consistent and clear on this issue, and likewise expect members of the Legislature to do the same so that we as leaders are transparent and accountable to Nebraskans.Consistent with those principles, I and other conservatives have worked diligently to assess legislative support for WTA in a pre-election special session. At this time, I have not yet received the concrete and public indication that 33 senators would vote for WTA. If that changes, I will enthusiastically call a special session.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Offers Statement on Status of Special Session for Winner Take All

Linda Sobeski, PharmD, has been named the inaugural associate dean for the UNMC College of Pharmacy’s regional pharmacy school at the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus.

The first pharmacy class at Kearney – projected to be 12-16 in number – is set to enroll August 2025 and graduate May 2029.

Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna who has been with the UNMC College of Pharmacy since 2005, is a clinician-educator and board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist with a clinical practice.

“The college is excited to have Dr. Sobeski as our associate dean,” said Keith Olsen, PharmD, Joseph D. Williams Endowed Dean of the UNMC College of Pharmacy. “Her great depth in understanding all aspects of pharmacy education will be invaluable to guide, lead and mentor our students and faculty on the Kearney campus.”

“We are delighted to have Dr. Sobeski lead our program in Kearney,” said Don Klepser, PhD, senior associate dean for academic affairs at the college. “She understands our curriculum and our culture, which will allow her to&nbsp;mentor new faculty and assure that students in Kearney are getting the same high-quality experience as those in Omaha.&nbsp;She will serve as an incredible ambassador for the college in Kearney and the surrounding areas.”

UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, said Dr. Sobeski’s hiring is part of the university’s greater commitment to the state and its people.

“The expansion of our pharmacy program to Kearney, along with medicine, nursing, public health, the allied health professions and more, is the latest in our effort to serve all Nebraskans,” Dr. Davies said. “This will increase access to&nbsp;much needed pharmacy services&nbsp;for students&nbsp;closer to home for many of&nbsp;our rural communities.

“I am pleased that Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna with a strong background of excellence in clinical education, has agreed to help lead the college of pharmacy students in this mission. I am confident the students will be well served by her experiences.”

Dr. Sobeski’s educational awards include an Outstanding Faculty Award from the UNMC College of Pharmacy class of 2022 and being honored as the college’s Preceptor of the Year in 2020.

Dr. Sobeski, who began her new role on Sept. 1, will be based in Kearney, Dr. Klepser said.

Prior to joining UNMC, Dr. Sobeski held an appointment as assistant clinical professor at Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Des Moines.

Dr. Sobeski’s primary research interests are management of cognitive disorders, inappropriate medication use in the elderly and clinical geriatric education. She currently is collaborating with the UNMC Geriatrics Division on a Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726495845703.jpeg" alt="Linda Sobeski, PharmD (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Linda Sobeski, PharmD (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNMCLinda Sobeski, PharmD, has been named the inaugural associate dean for the UNMC College of Pharmacy’s regional pharmacy school at the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus.The first pharmacy class at Kearney – projected to be 12-16 in number – is set to enroll August 2025 and graduate May 2029.Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna who has been with the UNMC College of Pharmacy since 2005, is a clinician-educator and board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist with a clinical practice.“The college is excited to have Dr. Sobeski as our associate dean,” said Keith Olsen, PharmD, Joseph D. Williams Endowed Dean of the UNMC College of Pharmacy. “Her great depth in understanding all aspects of pharmacy education will be invaluable to guide, lead and mentor our students and faculty on the Kearney campus.”“We are delighted to have Dr. Sobeski lead our program in Kearney,” said Don Klepser, PhD, senior associate dean for academic affairs at the college. “She understands our curriculum and our culture, which will allow her to&nbsp;mentor new faculty and assure that students in Kearney are getting the same high-quality experience as those in Omaha.&nbsp;She will serve as an incredible ambassador for the college in Kearney and the surrounding areas.”UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, said Dr. Sobeski’s hiring is part of the university’s greater commitment to the state and its people.“The expansion of our pharmacy program to Kearney, along with medicine, nursing, public health, the allied health professions and more, is the latest in our effort to serve all Nebraskans,” Dr. Davies said. “This will increase access to&nbsp;much needed pharmacy services&nbsp;for students&nbsp;closer to home for many of&nbsp;our rural communities.“I am pleased that Dr. Sobeski, a UNMC alumna with a strong background of excellence in clinical education, has agreed to help lead the college of pharmacy students in this mission. I am confident the students will be well served by her experiences.”Dr. Sobeski’s educational awards include an Outstanding Faculty Award from the UNMC College of Pharmacy class of 2022 and being honored as the college’s Preceptor of the Year in 2020.Dr. Sobeski, who began her new role on Sept. 1, will be based in Kearney, Dr. Klepser said.Prior to joining UNMC, Dr. Sobeski held an appointment as assistant clinical professor at Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Des Moines.Dr. Sobeski’s primary research interests are management of cognitive disorders, inappropriate medication use in the elderly and clinical geriatric education. She currently is collaborating with the UNMC Geriatrics Division on a Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant.

Inaugural associate pharmacy dean named for Kearney campus

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

WASHINGTON — The FBI is investigating a possible assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump after gunshots were fired Sunday near Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where the GOP presidential nominee was playing golf.

The FBI said in a statement to States Newsroom the incident “appears to be an attempted assassination of former President Trump.”

A male suspect is in custody, law enforcement officials said.

“President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” Steven Cheung, the Trump campaign’s communications director, said in a statement about 20 minutes after the incident occurred just before 2 p.m. Eastern.

The FBI is taking a lead on investigating, said Jeffrey Veltri, the special agent in charge of the bureau’s Miami field office during a late afternoon press conference by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw told reporters that a Secret Service agent with Trump spotted a rifle coming out of bushes next to the golf course.

“The Secret Service agent that was on the course did a fantastic job,” he said. “What they do is, they have an agent that jumps one hole ahead of time to where the president was at, and he was able to spot this rifle barrel, stickin’ out of the fence, and immediately engage that individual, at which time the individual took off.”

The suspect in the bushes had an AK-47 style rifle with a scope, two backpacks filled with ceramic tile and a GoPro camera, Bradshaw said.

Bradshaw said a witness saw the suspect come out of the bushes and take off in a black Nissan. The witness took a picture of the license plate and local law enforcement officers were able to stop the vehicle in Martin County, which borders Palm Beach County.

“They spotted the vehicle and pulled it over and detained the guy,” Bradshaw said.

Once the driver was detained, Bradshaw said the witness was able to identify the driver as “the person that he saw running out of the bushes that jumped into the car.”

Bradshaw said the suspect was about 300 to 500 yards away from Trump.

“With a rifle and a scope like that, that’s not a long distance,” he said.

Bradshaw did not provide more details about the suspect’s identity.

U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/1835390587673153888" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;prior to the press conference that “a protective incident” involving Trump occurred and that the Secret Service was investigating the incident with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He also confirmed that Trump was safe.

The private golf club is about 4 miles from Trump’s primary residence at Mar-a-Lago.

The Republican vice presidential nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/JDVance/status/1835428708464873580" target="_blank">wrote on social media</a>&nbsp;that he has spoken to Trump, who is “in good spirits.”

“Still much we don’t know, but I’ll be hugging my kids extra tight tonight and saying a prayer of gratitude,” Vance wrote.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/VP/status/1835403813475570113" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;that she had been briefed and she is glad Trump is safe.

“Violence has no place in America,” she said.

The White House said that President Joe Biden had also been briefed.

“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the White House said of Biden and Harris. “They will be kept regularly updated by their team.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said in a statement that he applauded “the Secret Service for their quick response to ensure former President Trump’s safety.”

“There is no place in this country for political violence of any kind,” he said. “The perpetrator must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The incident follows a&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/campaigns-elections/trump-campaigns-in-western-pennsylvania-with-rally-in-butler-county/" target="_blank">July 13 assassination attempt</a>&nbsp;of Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Congress set up a bipartisan task force to investigate that attempted assassination. The chair of the task force, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Pennsylvania and the top Democrat, U.S. Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado released a joint statement, requesting a briefing from the Secret Service on the shooting in West Palm Beach “and how security responded.”

“We are thankful that the former President was not harmed, but remain deeply concerned about political violence and condemn it in all of its forms,” they wrote. “The Task Force will share updates as we learn more.”

U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, an Ohio Republican and a member of the task force investigating that incident, said on social media “with continued threats against Trump, it is critical to remain dedicated to our work on the Task Force to Investigate the Attempted Assassination of President Trump.”

This is a developing story and will be updated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726432346578.png" alt="&nbsp;Based on BOLO information released by Palm Beach County, the Martin County Sheriff's Office stopped a vehicle and took a suspect into custody believed to be connected to a shooting incident at Trump International in Palm Beach County. -photos Martin County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Based on BOLO information released by Palm Beach County, the Martin County Sheriff's Office stopped a vehicle and took a suspect into custody believed to be connected to a shooting incident at Trump International in Palm Beach County. -photos Martin County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> WASHINGTON — The FBI is investigating a possible assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump after gunshots were fired Sunday near Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where the GOP presidential nominee was playing golf.The FBI said in a statement to States Newsroom the incident “appears to be an attempted assassination of former President Trump.”A male suspect is in custody, law enforcement officials said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726442796445.png" alt="Photos of the AK-47 rifle, a backpack and a Go-Pro camera on a fence outside Trump International Golf Club taken after an apparent assassination attempt on the former President Donald Trump, are displayed by West Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw during a news conference at the Palm Beach County Main Library.-image West Palm Beach Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos of the AK-47 rifle, a backpack and a Go-Pro camera on a fence outside Trump International Golf Club taken after an apparent assassination attempt on the former President Donald Trump, are displayed by West Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw during a news conference at the Palm Beach County Main Library.-image West Palm Beach Police</figcaption>
 </figure>“President Trump is safe following gunshots in his vicinity. No further details at this time,” Steven Cheung, the Trump campaign’s communications director, said in a statement about 20 minutes after the incident occurred just before 2 p.m. Eastern.The FBI is taking a lead on investigating, said Jeffrey Veltri, the special agent in charge of the bureau’s Miami field office during a late afternoon press conference by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw told reporters that a Secret Service agent with Trump spotted a rifle coming out of bushes next to the golf course.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726432191597.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“The Secret Service agent that was on the course did a fantastic job,” he said. “What they do is, they have an agent that jumps one hole ahead of time to where the president was at, and he was able to spot this rifle barrel, stickin’ out of the fence, and immediately engage that individual, at which time the individual took off.”The suspect in the bushes had an AK-47 style rifle with a scope, two backpacks filled with ceramic tile and a GoPro camera, Bradshaw said.Bradshaw said a witness saw the suspect come out of the bushes and take off in a black Nissan. The witness took a picture of the license plate and local law enforcement officers were able to stop the vehicle in Martin County, which borders Palm Beach County.“They spotted the vehicle and pulled it over and detained the guy,” Bradshaw said.Once the driver was detained, Bradshaw said the witness was able to identify the driver as “the person that he saw running out of the bushes that jumped into the car.”Bradshaw said the suspect was about 300 to 500 yards away from Trump.“With a rifle and a scope like that, that’s not a long distance,” he said.Bradshaw did not provide more details about the suspect’s identity.U.S. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/1835390587673153888" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;prior to the press conference that “a protective incident” involving Trump occurred and that the Secret Service was investigating the incident with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He also confirmed that Trump was safe.The private golf club is about 4 miles from Trump’s primary residence at Mar-a-Lago.<h2>Reaction from Vance, Harris, Biden</h2>The Republican vice presidential nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/JDVance/status/1835428708464873580" target="_blank">wrote on social media</a>&nbsp;that he has spoken to Trump, who is “in good spirits.”“Still much we don’t know, but I’ll be hugging my kids extra tight tonight and saying a prayer of gratitude,” Vance wrote.Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/VP/status/1835403813475570113" target="_blank">said on social media</a>&nbsp;that she had been briefed and she is glad Trump is safe.“Violence has no place in America,” she said.The White House said that President Joe Biden had also been briefed.“They are relieved to know that he is safe,” the White House said of Biden and Harris. “They will be kept regularly updated by their team.”Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said in a statement that he applauded “the Secret Service for their quick response to ensure former President Trump’s safety.”“There is no place in this country for political violence of any kind,” he said. “The perpetrator must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”The incident follows a&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/campaigns-elections/trump-campaigns-in-western-pennsylvania-with-rally-in-butler-county/" target="_blank">July 13 assassination attempt</a>&nbsp;of Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.Congress set up a bipartisan task force to investigate that attempted assassination. The chair of the task force, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Pennsylvania and the top Democrat, U.S. Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado released a joint statement, requesting a briefing from the Secret Service on the shooting in West Palm Beach “and how security responded.”“We are thankful that the former President was not harmed, but remain deeply concerned about political violence and condemn it in all of its forms,” they wrote. “The Task Force will share updates as we learn more.”U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, an Ohio Republican and a member of the task force investigating that incident, said on social media “with continued threats against Trump, it is critical to remain dedicated to our work on the Task Force to Investigate the Attempted Assassination of President Trump.”This is a developing story and will be updated.

FBI investigating shots fired near Trump as apparent assassination attempt

Arizona and Nevada had the biggest spikes in renters paying 30% or more of their income on housing from 2019 to 2023.

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/thenderson/">TIM HENDERSON</a>

There were 21 states where a majority of tenant households spent 30% or more of their incomes on rent and utilities last year, compared with just seven states in 2019.

Nationwide, about 22 million&nbsp;renters are shouldering that percentage.&nbsp;Anyone paying more than 30% is considered “cost burdened,” according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and may struggle to pay for other necessities, such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care.

Three presidential swing states had among the biggest increases in the share of renters who spent that much on housing: Arizona (to 54% from 46.5%), Nevada (to 57.4% from 51.1%) and Georgia (to 53.7% from 48.4%). The numbers are based on a Stateline analysis of American Community Survey data to be released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Florida and Maine also saw large jumps.

In Arizona, low wages, a housing shortage, and short-term rental and vacation homes are eating away at the stock of affordable housing for renters,&nbsp;according to Alison Cook-Davis, associate director for research at Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy.

“You’ve got people across the state kind of pulling their hair out, saying ‘I thought Arizona was supposed to be the affordable state,’” Cook-Davis said.

Rents in Arizona have shot up 40% to 60% in the last two years, she said. And the state’s eviction filings spiked 43% to 97,000 between 2022 and 2023, she said.

In places such as Arizona and Nevada where the housing bubble of the late 2000s left vacant houses, the construction of apartments and other homes has not caught up with population increases, Cook-Davis added.

A University of Nevada, Las Vegas,&nbsp;<a href="https://liedcenter.unlv.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lied-Research-Report-Volume-1-Issue-1.pdf" target="_blank">data brief</a>&nbsp;reported in May&nbsp;that the Las Vegas area had the highest percentage of cost-burdened renters in the state, at 58.3%, more even than the New York City metro area (52.6%) or San Francisco metro area (48.9%).

Today’s newly released census figures showed that in addition to Arizona, Nevada and Georgia, the states with the highest jumps in the share of cost-burdened renters were Florida, which increased to 61.7% from 55.9%, and Maine, at 49.1% from 44%.

That jump left Florida as the state with the highest rate of cost-burdened renters. It was followed by Nevada (57.4%), Hawaii (56.7%), Louisiana (56.2%) and California (56.1%).

“Florida isn't the deal it used to be,” said Christopher McCarty, director of the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “Florida still has disproportionately lower-paying jobs compared to other states, and rents are increasing compared to other states as well.”

The states with the lowest rates of cost-burdened renters as of 2023 were North Dakota (37%), Wyoming (41.2%), South Dakota (41.3%), Kansas (43.5%) and Nebraska (44%).

The share of cost-burdened renters increased since 2019 in every state except Vermont (down to 47.8% from 54%), Wyoming (down to 41.2% from 44%), North Dakota (down to 37% from 38%) and Rhode Island (down to 48.1% from 49%).

There's hope for the future in Arizona and other states with increased home construction, Cook-Davis said.

“If you keep building, eventually this will sort itself out. But that could take years. It's a slow process," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625411208272.png" alt="Apartment complex in Johnson County Kansas -Google image" />
 <figcaption>Apartment complex in Johnson County Kansas -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Arizona and Nevada had the biggest spikes in renters paying 30% or more of their income on housing from 2019 to 2023.</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/thenderson/">TIM HENDERSON</a>There were 21 states where a majority of tenant households spent 30% or more of their incomes on rent and utilities last year, compared with just seven states in 2019.Nationwide, about 22 million&nbsp;renters are shouldering that percentage.&nbsp;Anyone paying more than 30% is considered “cost burdened,” according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and may struggle to pay for other necessities, such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care.Three presidential swing states had among the biggest increases in the share of renters who spent that much on housing: Arizona (to 54% from 46.5%), Nevada (to 57.4% from 51.1%) and Georgia (to 53.7% from 48.4%). The numbers are based on a Stateline analysis of American Community Survey data to be released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Florida and Maine also saw large jumps.In Arizona, low wages, a housing shortage, and short-term rental and vacation homes are eating away at the stock of affordable housing for renters,&nbsp;according to Alison Cook-Davis, associate director for research at Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy.“You’ve got people across the state kind of pulling their hair out, saying ‘I thought Arizona was supposed to be the affordable state,’” Cook-Davis said.Rents in Arizona have shot up 40% to 60% in the last two years, she said. And the state’s eviction filings spiked 43% to 97,000 between 2022 and 2023, she said.In places such as Arizona and Nevada where the housing bubble of the late 2000s left vacant houses, the construction of apartments and other homes has not caught up with population increases, Cook-Davis added.A University of Nevada, Las Vegas,&nbsp;<a href="https://liedcenter.unlv.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lied-Research-Report-Volume-1-Issue-1.pdf" target="_blank">data brief</a>&nbsp;reported in May&nbsp;that the Las Vegas area had the highest percentage of cost-burdened renters in the state, at 58.3%, more even than the New York City metro area (52.6%) or San Francisco metro area (48.9%).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726157150534.png" alt="Map: Tim Henderson/StatelineSource: American Community Survey, Stateline analysis" />
 <figcaption>Map: Tim Henderson/StatelineSource: American Community Survey, Stateline analysis</figcaption>
 </figure>Today’s newly released census figures showed that in addition to Arizona, Nevada and Georgia, the states with the highest jumps in the share of cost-burdened renters were Florida, which increased to 61.7% from 55.9%, and Maine, at 49.1% from 44%.That jump left Florida as the state with the highest rate of cost-burdened renters. It was followed by Nevada (57.4%), Hawaii (56.7%), Louisiana (56.2%) and California (56.1%).“Florida isn't the deal it used to be,” said Christopher McCarty, director of the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “Florida still has disproportionately lower-paying jobs compared to other states, and rents are increasing compared to other states as well.”The states with the lowest rates of cost-burdened renters as of 2023 were North Dakota (37%), Wyoming (41.2%), South Dakota (41.3%), Kansas (43.5%) and Nebraska (44%).The share of cost-burdened renters increased since 2019 in every state except Vermont (down to 47.8% from 54%), Wyoming (down to 41.2% from 44%), North Dakota (down to 37% from 38%) and Rhode Island (down to 48.1% from 49%).There's hope for the future in Arizona and other states with increased home construction, Cook-Davis said.“If you keep building, eventually this will sort itself out. But that could take years. It's a slow process," she said.

Rent is eating up a greater share of tenants’ income in almost every state

JERUSALEM —U.S. forces continue to face threats across the Middle East almost daily and are taking action.

This week U.S. forces killed an ISIS attack cell member in a strike in Eastern Syria, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The individual was in the midst of planting an IED for a planned attack against Coalition and Partner Forces.

In addition, over the past week, U.S. forces have successfully destroyed 13 Iranian-back Houthi drones, 7 Houthi missile systems and 3 support vehicles in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen or on the Red Sea, according to the Central Command.

On Friday,&nbsp; the U.S. Army announced the upcoming deployment of the 101st Airborne Division, Combat Aviation Brigade, 'Wings of Destiny,' will deploy to replace the 10th Mountain Division Combat Aviation Brigade.

JERUSALEM —U.S. forces continue to face threats across the Middle East almost daily and are taking action.This week U.S. forces killed an ISIS attack cell member in a strike in Eastern Syria, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The individual was in the midst of planting an IED for a planned attack against Coalition and Partner Forces.In addition, over the past week, U.S. forces have successfully destroyed 13 Iranian-back Houthi drones, 7 Houthi missile systems and 3 support vehicles in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen or on the Red Sea, according to the Central Command.On Friday,&nbsp; the U.S. Army announced the upcoming deployment of the 101st Airborne Division, Combat Aviation Brigade, 'Wings of Destiny,' will deploy to replace the 10th Mountain Division Combat Aviation Brigade.

U.S. forces kill ISIS attack cell member during a strike in Syria

North Platte High (0-2) goes on the road this evening to Norfolk (2-0) to face the Panthers.&nbsp;

Kwik Stop Pregame at 6:30pm on FM 98.1 and watch here on the WB's Fun Center Livestream, Kickoff at 7pm with Derek Beck and Pat Jacobson

North Platte High (0-2) goes on the road this evening to Norfolk (2-0) to face the Panthers.&nbsp;Kwik Stop Pregame at 6:30pm on FM 98.1 and watch here on the WB's Fun Center Livestream, Kickoff at 7pm with Derek Beck and Pat Jacobson<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0JPct_LeunI?si=x7DOXH38KHf-Ihl8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

WATCH: North Platte High Football at Norfolk

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Awards Program dollars are having a real impact in Nebraska, according to meetings that the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska held with funding recipients this summer. &nbsp;

BHECN hosted workshops in Kearney, Chadron, Scottsbluff, Wayne and Omaha with organizations that received portions of the $25.5 million in ARPA funds that the Nebraska Legislature allocated to BHECN in 2022.

The organizations described how the funding support helped them address key behavioral health workforce challenges.

Many of the projects directly align with BHECN’s efforts to address the state’s shortage of behavioral health workers, said BHECN Director Marley Doyle, MD.

“It was very gratifying to hear that the ARPA dollars are working how they are intended to work,” Dr. Doyle said. “Although we’re only a year into the program, the impact our awardees are having on the behavioral health workforce in this state is truly remarkable.”

Some examples of the ARPA success included:

Hearing so many stories about ARPA awards improving behavioral health in Nebraska is an affirming experience for the BHECN team, said Jessie Buche, director of the BHECN-ARPA Awards Program.

“We truly believe the ARPA program is a transformational development for behavioral health in Nebraska, and hearing about the work of our awardees only strengthens that belief,” Buche said. “We are incredibly excited to see what continues to come from this amazing project.”&nbsp;

ARPAMeetings1: BHECN Central Director Krista Fritson, PsyD, center, talks at a gathering of ARPA awardees at the University of Nebraska Kearney in June.

ARPAMeetings2: ARPA awardees and BHECN staff members discuss the ARPA Awards Program at UNK in June.

UNMCAmerican Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Awards Program dollars are having a real impact in Nebraska, according to meetings that the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska held with funding recipients this summer. &nbsp;BHECN hosted workshops in Kearney, Chadron, Scottsbluff, Wayne and Omaha with organizations that received portions of the $25.5 million in ARPA funds that the Nebraska Legislature allocated to BHECN in 2022.The organizations described how the funding support helped them address key behavioral health workforce challenges.Many of the projects directly align with BHECN’s efforts to address the state’s shortage of behavioral health workers, said BHECN Director Marley Doyle, MD.“It was very gratifying to hear that the ARPA dollars are working how they are intended to work,” Dr. Doyle said. “Although we’re only a year into the program, the impact our awardees are having on the behavioral health workforce in this state is truly remarkable.”Some examples of the ARPA success included:<ul>
 <li><a>At Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Gina Krysl added a second counselor to the NCC student counseling team and a student intern to meet the growing behavioral health needs of students. The NCC counseling office doubled the number of students served and offered prevention programming and outreach to the campus community.</a></li><li>Options in Psychology, which has several offices in western Nebraska, recruited multiple psychology doctoral interns – most of whom plan to stay in the area once their training is complete. The staff help address a key workforce shortage area for the Panhandle.</li><li>Quality Healthcare Clinic, an integrated care clinic in Sutton, Nebraska, hired one full-time and two part-time behavioral health providers, established telebehavioral health capacity and marketed its new offerings to the communities served by the clinic.</li><li>At Chadron State College, Brittany Helmbrecht, DHEd, instituted a campus wellness program to reduce stigma around mental health treatment, which included hosting a behavioral health presentation for Chadron State athletes on performance anxiety, which drew more than 300 students and others.</li>
 </ul>Hearing so many stories about ARPA awards improving behavioral health in Nebraska is an affirming experience for the BHECN team, said Jessie Buche, director of the BHECN-ARPA Awards Program.“We truly believe the ARPA program is a transformational development for behavioral health in Nebraska, and hearing about the work of our awardees only strengthens that belief,” Buche said. “We are incredibly excited to see what continues to come from this amazing project.”&nbsp;Captions:ARPAMeetings1: BHECN Central Director Krista Fritson, PsyD, center, talks at a gathering of ARPA awardees at the University of Nebraska Kearney in June.ARPAMeetings2: ARPA awardees and BHECN staff members discuss the ARPA Awards Program at UNK in June.

Statewide meetings show BHECN-ARPA support benefits Nebraska

Lincoln -- The Nebraska Supreme Court today ordered the Secretary of State to end his shenanigans, respect the will of the people, and put the Repeal of LB1402’s voucher scheme on the ballot.

“We thank the state Supreme Court for protecting one of the most important rights we have as Nebraska citizens – the right to petition our government for the redress of grievances,” said&nbsp;Jenni Benson, Support Our Schools Nebraska.

“At every turn, those wanting to use public funds to pay for their private schools have fought against the right of Nebraskans to vote on this issue,” said&nbsp;Benson. “These voucher proponents want to impose their costly private school voucher scheme on Nebraska taxpayers. But public school supporters from all across our state joined together to protect our public schools with two successful petition drives and a winning defense of the petition process in the Nebraska Supreme Court.”

“We join Nebraska’s public school educators in celebrating the Supreme Court’s decision to preserve the right of Nebraskans to vote on whether to direct their taxpayer dollars to private institutions. We applaud their decision to maintain the long-held, intentional and careful process of appropriating funds by the Legislature, an important tenet of effective fiscal management by the state of Nebraska,” said&nbsp;Dr. Rebecca Firestone, executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute.&nbsp;“We are confident our neighbors will research this issue carefully before November and vote to repeal Section 1 of LB 1402, as they have in state after state.”

“It has been a hard-fought battle to ensure Nebraskans get to vote on the Repeal of LB1402 –&nbsp; and it’s going to get worse when Senator Linehan, Betsy DeVos and their billionaire buddies pour MILLIONS into ads in their attempts to mislead voters about LB1402, our public schools, students and educators,” said&nbsp;Tim Royers, Support Our Schools Nebraska and president of the Nebraska State Education Association.

“These voucher proponents have made it clear they will stop at nothing in their effort to take public funds away from our public schools,” said&nbsp;Benson. “But Nebraskans support public education&nbsp; – they know their local public schools are the heart of their communities. Our coalition of Nebraska organizations will continue to push back and tell the truth about the damage LB1402 will do to our local public schools, communities, and students.”

“The stakes are far too high to give anything less than we can – for this fight is about the legacy of public education and future generations of Nebraskans,” said&nbsp;Royers. “We are asking Nebraskans to vote to REPEAL LB1402 to keep public funds for public education. Our public schools serve 90% of all children in Nebraska. They accept all students and our public school teachers work daily to provide every one of their students with a quality education that will help them succeed.”

Since last summer, the Support Our Schools Nebraska coalition has collected more than 200,000 signatures from Nebraskans who believe voters should decide whether public funds should be used to pay for private schools.

Several Nebraska organizations are advocating for the Repeal of LB1402, including the League of Women Voters of Nebraska, the Nebraska PTA, Nebraska Farmers Union, OpenSky Policy Institute, Holland Children’s Movement, Stand For Schools, the ARC of Nebraska, the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, the Nebraska State Education Association and more.

Support Our SchoolsLincoln -- The Nebraska Supreme Court today ordered the Secretary of State to end his shenanigans, respect the will of the people, and put the Repeal of LB1402’s voucher scheme on the ballot.“We thank the state Supreme Court for protecting one of the most important rights we have as Nebraska citizens – the right to petition our government for the redress of grievances,” said&nbsp;Jenni Benson, Support Our Schools Nebraska.“At every turn, those wanting to use public funds to pay for their private schools have fought against the right of Nebraskans to vote on this issue,” said&nbsp;Benson. “These voucher proponents want to impose their costly private school voucher scheme on Nebraska taxpayers. But public school supporters from all across our state joined together to protect our public schools with two successful petition drives and a winning defense of the petition process in the Nebraska Supreme Court.”“We join Nebraska’s public school educators in celebrating the Supreme Court’s decision to preserve the right of Nebraskans to vote on whether to direct their taxpayer dollars to private institutions. We applaud their decision to maintain the long-held, intentional and careful process of appropriating funds by the Legislature, an important tenet of effective fiscal management by the state of Nebraska,” said&nbsp;Dr. Rebecca Firestone, executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute.&nbsp;“We are confident our neighbors will research this issue carefully before November and vote to repeal Section 1 of LB 1402, as they have in state after state.”“It has been a hard-fought battle to ensure Nebraskans get to vote on the Repeal of LB1402 –&nbsp; and it’s going to get worse when Senator Linehan, Betsy DeVos and their billionaire buddies pour MILLIONS into ads in their attempts to mislead voters about LB1402, our public schools, students and educators,” said&nbsp;Tim Royers, Support Our Schools Nebraska and president of the Nebraska State Education Association.“These voucher proponents have made it clear they will stop at nothing in their effort to take public funds away from our public schools,” said&nbsp;Benson. “But Nebraskans support public education&nbsp; – they know their local public schools are the heart of their communities. Our coalition of Nebraska organizations will continue to push back and tell the truth about the damage LB1402 will do to our local public schools, communities, and students.”“The stakes are far too high to give anything less than we can – for this fight is about the legacy of public education and future generations of Nebraskans,” said&nbsp;Royers. “We are asking Nebraskans to vote to REPEAL LB1402 to keep public funds for public education. Our public schools serve 90% of all children in Nebraska. They accept all students and our public school teachers work daily to provide every one of their students with a quality education that will help them succeed.”Since last summer, the Support Our Schools Nebraska coalition has collected more than 200,000 signatures from Nebraskans who believe voters should decide whether public funds should be used to pay for private schools.Several Nebraska organizations are advocating for the Repeal of LB1402, including the League of Women Voters of Nebraska, the Nebraska PTA, Nebraska Farmers Union, OpenSky Policy Institute, Holland Children’s Movement, Stand For Schools, the ARC of Nebraska, the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, the Nebraska State Education Association and more.

Supreme Court Orders Secretary of State to put the Repeal of LB1402 on the November Ballot

SEPTEMBER 12, 2024&nbsp;— The American Red Cross is encouraging everyone to take critical actions during&nbsp;National Preparedness Month this September to be ready for worsening disasters. Deadly storms and floods, raging fires and extreme heat are becoming more frequent and intense and families are experiencing the effects.

“Disasters can happen at any time, often without warning, changing lives forever in just minutes,” said Josh Murray,&nbsp;spokesperson for the American Red Cross Serving Nebraska.&nbsp;“We continue to see increased extreme weather making it critical to help protect our loved ones. National Preparedness Month is the ideal time to get your household ready for emergencies.”

Get ready for disasters by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected.&nbsp;Follow these steps to prepare for emergencies:

Extreme weather is increasing in frequency and intensity. Already this year, Nebraska has experienced multiple tornado outbreaks, severe flooding, wildfires and power outages.&nbsp;Plus,&nbsp;2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record&nbsp;according to experts. With the changing seasons comes cooler temperatures, but that brings increased home fires.

When disasters happen—whether it is here in Nebraska or around the country—the Red Cross is there providing food, shelter and comfort to ensure no one faces such a difficult time alone. To help families better cope with this worsening climate crisis, the Red Cross is also enhancing our support for those who need it most and increasing our capacity to respond to non-stop disasters.

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdigFtSziZ-2BgUz3C5pEyl-2BQkm0RjOzwQt1D2QHXResPx-2B3rTzJNWa4X09WrE3kcnBK4F07K4DL0kAGRxkoe8ftYfeYSvokJshRqPxmvucF8fWFQ-3D-3Dji0d_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0KVmE7MCmr14fsEm0YTne4W5tXnsec8W2AlXCM853tBVHThKQh2MT2mlBQI307aiNF7MXXidiUxyWX3gkxbUPxIK2I7ln-2FI1hSswoEfynlQ0pNitOrbp8vgc6qkZKLIflXdUCdLKsi93kit9Jaw7ULk-3D">redcross.org</a><a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUx5H0UHE0CbYNbh-2FCnwgI2LStal_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0AcISUpIsF5xchp1XNFMlHq4QnKdn45Yxv4-2BzV-2B9X3CLej1qOdQXIpbykLZxT0neayteI0stUD8pGqVE4NU0a2Cl8fGoMV-2BLONxqEsIF5H9Ap3H9rNbOzN4xusxosgX8XAHY4U4uo7J2Y3OdketLkdo-3D">&nbsp;or call&nbsp;</a>800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to learn more today.

American Red CrossSEPTEMBER 12, 2024&nbsp;— The American Red Cross is encouraging everyone to take critical actions during&nbsp;National Preparedness Month this September to be ready for worsening disasters. Deadly storms and floods, raging fires and extreme heat are becoming more frequent and intense and families are experiencing the effects.“Disasters can happen at any time, often without warning, changing lives forever in just minutes,” said Josh Murray,&nbsp;spokesperson for the American Red Cross Serving Nebraska.&nbsp;“We continue to see increased extreme weather making it critical to help protect our loved ones. National Preparedness Month is the ideal time to get your household ready for emergencies.”HOW TO PREPAREGet ready for disasters by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected.&nbsp;Follow these steps to prepare for emergencies:<ol>
 <li>Depending on the emergency, you may need to stay where you are or go somewhere else to stay safe.&nbsp;If you may need to leave, think about where you will go, how you will get there, where you will stay and what you’ll take with you. Plan well in advance if you’ll need help leaving or use public transportation.</li><li>Next, gather and organize critical supplies — like food, water and medicine — into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can take with you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water, and a one-month supply of medications, if possible.</li><li>Customize your kit to meet your household’s specific needs. If you have young children, don’t forget formula and diapers. If you have pets, include leashes, carriers, food, bowls, litter and a litterbox.</li><li>Make a plan to reconnect with loved ones if you are separated or if the phone or internet is down. Write down important phone numbers on a contact card and carry it with you.</li><li>Finally,&nbsp;download the free Red Cross Emergency app&nbsp;for real-time weather alerts and expert advice in both English and Spanish.&nbsp;And don’t forget to&nbsp;sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government to get critical information during local emergencies.</li>
 </ol>EXTREME WEATHERExtreme weather is increasing in frequency and intensity. Already this year, Nebraska has experienced multiple tornado outbreaks, severe flooding, wildfires and power outages.&nbsp;Plus,&nbsp;2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record&nbsp;according to experts. With the changing seasons comes cooler temperatures, but that brings increased home fires.When disasters happen—whether it is here in Nebraska or around the country—the Red Cross is there providing food, shelter and comfort to ensure no one faces such a difficult time alone. To help families better cope with this worsening climate crisis, the Red Cross is also enhancing our support for those who need it most and increasing our capacity to respond to non-stop disasters.Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdigFtSziZ-2BgUz3C5pEyl-2BQkm0RjOzwQt1D2QHXResPx-2B3rTzJNWa4X09WrE3kcnBK4F07K4DL0kAGRxkoe8ftYfeYSvokJshRqPxmvucF8fWFQ-3D-3Dji0d_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0KVmE7MCmr14fsEm0YTne4W5tXnsec8W2AlXCM853tBVHThKQh2MT2mlBQI307aiNF7MXXidiUxyWX3gkxbUPxIK2I7ln-2FI1hSswoEfynlQ0pNitOrbp8vgc6qkZKLIflXdUCdLKsi93kit9Jaw7ULk-3D">redcross.org</a><a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUx5H0UHE0CbYNbh-2FCnwgI2LStal_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5jgv3LEz5aPKT9cWJHPUehVJZ0YbUqpqHfIxdZ1j2mdYOGUtmFq2PeS8thBivbXtJbbUVu995ScU-2BQotJuSij0AcISUpIsF5xchp1XNFMlHq4QnKdn45Yxv4-2BzV-2B9X3CLej1qOdQXIpbykLZxT0neayteI0stUD8pGqVE4NU0a2Cl8fGoMV-2BLONxqEsIF5H9Ap3H9rNbOzN4xusxosgX8XAHY4U4uo7J2Y3OdketLkdo-3D">&nbsp;or call&nbsp;</a>800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to learn more today.

Prepare your household now for more frequent extreme weather

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, cosponsored the Senate version of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday by a bipartisan vote of 219-199.

The bill would protect American sovereignty against the World Health Organization’s (WHO) intergovernmental negotiating body. It would require that any convention or agreement by the negotiating body related to pandemic prevention or response is deemed a treaty. A treaty requires the advice and consent of a supermajority of the Senate.

“The American people never agreed to be governed by an intergovernmental body headquartered an ocean away—so we must protect America’s sovereignty against overreach by the World Health Organization. Our legislation will prevent future attempts by WHO to unilaterally determine what our country can and cannot do during a pandemic,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) led the introduction of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act in the Senate, and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.) led its introduction in the House of Representatives. In addition to Senators Fischer and Johnson, the legislation is cosponsored by all 47 of their Republican colleagues.

The full text of the legislation can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/1b87fafb-36be-4c58-b552-0ddbaef50be7/118th-congress---no-who-pandemic-preparedness-treaty-without-senate-approval-act.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON ­–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, cosponsored the Senate version of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday by a bipartisan vote of 219-199.The bill would protect American sovereignty against the World Health Organization’s (WHO) intergovernmental negotiating body. It would require that any convention or agreement by the negotiating body related to pandemic prevention or response is deemed a treaty. A treaty requires the advice and consent of a supermajority of the Senate.“The American people never agreed to be governed by an intergovernmental body headquartered an ocean away—so we must protect America’s sovereignty against overreach by the World Health Organization. Our legislation will prevent future attempts by WHO to unilaterally determine what our country can and cannot do during a pandemic,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) led the introduction of the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act in the Senate, and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.) led its introduction in the House of Representatives. In addition to Senators Fischer and Johnson, the legislation is cosponsored by all 47 of their Republican colleagues.The full text of the legislation can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/1b87fafb-36be-4c58-b552-0ddbaef50be7/118th-congress---no-who-pandemic-preparedness-treaty-without-senate-approval-act.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;