ANTAKYA, Turkey (AP) — Thousands who lost their homes in a catastrophic earthquake huddled around campfires and clamored for food and water in the bitter cold, three days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earthquake-shakes-turkey-b927808f6a5c54bdb669120faa40b7bc">the temblor and a series of aftershocks</a>&nbsp;hit Turkey and Syria, killing more than 19,300.

&nbsp;The U.S. State Department confirmed that three U.S. citizens are among&nbsp; those who died.&nbsp; Officials did not release their names late Wednesday.

Emergency crews used pick axes, shovels and jackhammers to dig through twisted metal and concrete — and occasionally still pulled survivors out. But in some places, they switched the focus to demolishing unsteady buildings.

While stories of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newborn-rescued-earthquake-syria-899ba2d62631d3f5c77761b935f9f7e9">miraculous rescues</a>&nbsp;briefly buoyed spirits, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earthquake-turkey-syria-photo-gallery-feb-8-c22cec8eb554cc72a41a72212c52d2bb">grim reality</a>&nbsp;of the hardship facing tens of thousands who survived the disaster cast a pall. The number of deaths has surpassed the toll in a 2011 earthquake off Japan that triggered a tsunami, killing more than 18,400 people.

In northwest Syria, the first U.N. aid trucks to enter the rebel-controlled area from Turkey since the quake arrived — underscoring the difficulty of getting help to people in the country riven by civil war. In the Turkish city of Antakya, meanwhile, dozens of people scrambled for aid in front of a truck distributing children's coats and other supplies.

One survivor, Ahmet Tokgoz, called for the government to evacuate people from the devastated region. While many of the tens of thousands who have lost their homes have found shelter in tents, stadiums and other temporary accommodation, others have spent the nights outdoors.

“Especially in this cold, it is not possible to live here,” he said. “If people haven’t died from being stuck under the rubble, they’ll die from the cold.”

Winter weather and damage to roads and airports have hampered the response in both Turkey and Syria, where a civil war that displaced millions has further complicated efforts. Some in Turkey have complained the response was too slow — a perception that could hurt President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a time when he faces a tough battle for reelection in May.

In the Turkish town of Elbistan, rescuers stood atop a high stack of rubble from a collapsed home and fished out an elderly woman who had been submerged.

Teams&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/turkey-syria-earthquakes-f4086948f1c77eb519ad07590ae09568">urged quiet</a>&nbsp;in the hopes of hearing stifled pleas for help, and the Syrian paramedic group in the rebel-held northwest known as White Helmets noted that “every second could mean saving a life.”

But more and more often, the teams pulled out dead bodies from under the rubble. In Turkey's Antakya, over 100 bodies, covered by blankets and awaiting identification, lay in a makeshift morgue outside a hospital and in refrigerated trucks.

With the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-syria-turkey-health-earthquakes-673a3be02bfa996bad99dbba90ad7b7f">chances of finding people alive in the rubble dwindling</a>, teams in some places began demolishing buildings. In others, they simply had to move on.

In Adiyaman, Associated Press journalists saw a local resident plead with rescuers to come and sift through the rubble of a building where relatives were trapped. The crew refused, saying there was no one alive there, and they had to prioritize areas where there may be survivors.

A man, who gave only his name as Ahmet out of fear of government retribution, later asked the AP: “How can I go home and sleep? My brother is there. He may still be alive.”

In Nurdagi, throngs of onlookers — mostly family members of people trapped inside — watched as heavy machines ripped at one building that had collapsed, its six floors pancaked together.

Mehmet Yilmaz watched from a distance, estimating that around 80 people were still beneath the rubble — but that it was unlikely any would be recovered alive.

“There’s no hope," said Yilmaz, 67, who had six relatives, including a 3-month-old baby, trapped inside. "We can’t give up our hope in God, but they entered the building with listening devices and dogs and there was nothing.”

Authorities called off search-and-rescue operations on Thursday in the cities of Kilis and Sanliurfa, where destruction was not as severe as in other impacted regions.

Across the border in war-riven Syria, assistance trickled in. Smaller aid organizations have sent in shipments to Syria's rebel-held northwest, but the first U.N. trucks arrived Thursday. The U.N. is only authorized to deliver aid through one border crossing and road damage has prevented that thus far.

U.N. officials said more was needed, and they pleaded for humanitarian concerns to take precedence over politics.

The scale of loss and suffering to tend to remained massive. Turkish authorities said Thursday that the death toll had risen to more than 16,100 in the country, with more than 64,000 injured. On the Syrian side, which includes in government-held and rebel-held areas, of the border, more than 3,100 have been reported dead and more than 5,000 injured.

It was not clear how many people were still unaccounted for in both countries.

Among the missing were members of a high-school volleyball team from northern Cyprus, as well as teachers and parents who had been staying in a hotel that collapsed, said Nazim Cavusoglu, the education minister in the breakaway Turkish Cypriot north, on Turkey’s NTV television.

Turkey’s disaster management agency said more than 110,000 rescue personnel were now taking part in the effort and more than 5,500 vehicles, including tractors, cranes, bulldozers and excavators had been shipped. Teams from places as diverse as Poland, Switzerland, Israel and the West Bank were contributing to the deployment to Turkey.

But international aid for Syria was far more sparse, where efforts have been hampered by the ongoing war and the isolation of the rebel-held region along the border that is surrounded by Russia-backed government forces. Syria itself is an international pariah under Western sanctions linked to the war.

The U.N. shipment was scheduled before the earthquake happened but was delayed by road damage. U.N. officials said more trucks were set to follow.

Erdogan, who continued touring devastated areas Thursday, has sought to deflect criticism of the response — and vowed it was improving. He renewed a promise to quake survivors that destroyed homes would be rebuilt within a year. He has said the government will distribute 10,000 Turkish lira ($532) to affected families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675651936627.png" alt="To date, the United States has deployed more than 150 search-and-rescue personnel, along with teams of canines, to join the life-saving efforts in Turkey, according to the State Department. U.S. teams include experienced emergency managers, hazardous materials technicians, engineers, logisticians, paramedics, and planners, among others – along with 170,000 pounds of specialized tools and equipment.-USGS image&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>To date, the United States has deployed more than 150 search-and-rescue personnel, along with teams of canines, to join the life-saving efforts in Turkey, according to the State Department. U.S. teams include experienced emergency managers, hazardous materials technicians, engineers, logisticians, paramedics, and planners, among others – along with 170,000 pounds of specialized tools and equipment.-USGS image&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>ANTAKYA, Turkey (AP) — Thousands who lost their homes in a catastrophic earthquake huddled around campfires and clamored for food and water in the bitter cold, three days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earthquake-shakes-turkey-b927808f6a5c54bdb669120faa40b7bc">the temblor and a series of aftershocks</a>&nbsp;hit Turkey and Syria, killing more than 19,300.&nbsp;The U.S. State Department confirmed that three U.S. citizens are among&nbsp; those who died.&nbsp; Officials did not release their names late Wednesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> on the initial U.S. earthquake response for Turkiye &amp; Syria: We’ve deployed experienced emergency managers, hazardous materials technicians, engineers, logisticians, paramedics, planners, others, along with about 170,000 lbs of specialized tools &amp; equipment. <a href="https://t.co/zwUf3PEpmk">pic.twitter.com/zwUf3PEpmk</a>&mdash; Department of State (@StateDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept/status/1623412338937196545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Emergency crews used pick axes, shovels and jackhammers to dig through twisted metal and concrete — and occasionally still pulled survivors out. But in some places, they switched the focus to demolishing unsteady buildings.While stories of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newborn-rescued-earthquake-syria-899ba2d62631d3f5c77761b935f9f7e9">miraculous rescues</a>&nbsp;briefly buoyed spirits, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earthquake-turkey-syria-photo-gallery-feb-8-c22cec8eb554cc72a41a72212c52d2bb">grim reality</a>&nbsp;of the hardship facing tens of thousands who survived the disaster cast a pall. The number of deaths has surpassed the toll in a 2011 earthquake off Japan that triggered a tsunami, killing more than 18,400 people.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675906856525.png" alt="Two USAID Urban Search and Rescue teams arrived to the 39th Air Base Wing in Incirlik to help with rescue and recovery efforts after the devastating earthquakes in Turkiye. U.S Ambassador to Türkiye Jeffry Flake and Mrs. Flake thank the Los Angels County Fire Department and Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department’s Urban Search and Rescue team for providing urgent support to our NATO Ally. (State Department photo courtesy U.S. Embassy Türkiye)" />
 <figcaption>Two USAID Urban Search and Rescue teams arrived to the 39th Air Base Wing in Incirlik to help with rescue and recovery efforts after the devastating earthquakes in Turkiye. U.S Ambassador to Türkiye Jeffry Flake and Mrs. Flake thank the Los Angels County Fire Department and Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department’s Urban Search and Rescue team for providing urgent support to our NATO Ally. (State Department photo courtesy U.S. Embassy Türkiye)</figcaption>
 </figure>In northwest Syria, the first U.N. aid trucks to enter the rebel-controlled area from Turkey since the quake arrived — underscoring the difficulty of getting help to people in the country riven by civil war. In the Turkish city of Antakya, meanwhile, dozens of people scrambled for aid in front of a truck distributing children's coats and other supplies.One survivor, Ahmet Tokgoz, called for the government to evacuate people from the devastated region. While many of the tens of thousands who have lost their homes have found shelter in tents, stadiums and other temporary accommodation, others have spent the nights outdoors.“Especially in this cold, it is not possible to live here,” he said. “If people haven’t died from being stuck under the rubble, they’ll die from the cold.”Winter weather and damage to roads and airports have hampered the response in both Turkey and Syria, where a civil war that displaced millions has further complicated efforts. Some in Turkey have complained the response was too slow — a perception that could hurt President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a time when he faces a tough battle for reelection in May.In the Turkish town of Elbistan, rescuers stood atop a high stack of rubble from a collapsed home and fished out an elderly woman who had been submerged.Teams&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/turkey-syria-earthquakes-f4086948f1c77eb519ad07590ae09568">urged quiet</a>&nbsp;in the hopes of hearing stifled pleas for help, and the Syrian paramedic group in the rebel-held northwest known as White Helmets noted that “every second could mean saving a life.”But more and more often, the teams pulled out dead bodies from under the rubble. In Turkey's Antakya, over 100 bodies, covered by blankets and awaiting identification, lay in a makeshift morgue outside a hospital and in refrigerated trucks.With the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-syria-turkey-health-earthquakes-673a3be02bfa996bad99dbba90ad7b7f">chances of finding people alive in the rubble dwindling</a>, teams in some places began demolishing buildings. In others, they simply had to move on.In Adiyaman, Associated Press journalists saw a local resident plead with rescuers to come and sift through the rubble of a building where relatives were trapped. The crew refused, saying there was no one alive there, and they had to prioritize areas where there may be survivors.A man, who gave only his name as Ahmet out of fear of government retribution, later asked the AP: “How can I go home and sleep? My brother is there. He may still be alive.”In Nurdagi, throngs of onlookers — mostly family members of people trapped inside — watched as heavy machines ripped at one building that had collapsed, its six floors pancaked together.Mehmet Yilmaz watched from a distance, estimating that around 80 people were still beneath the rubble — but that it was unlikely any would be recovered alive.“There’s no hope," said Yilmaz, 67, who had six relatives, including a 3-month-old baby, trapped inside. "We can’t give up our hope in God, but they entered the building with listening devices and dogs and there was nothing.”Authorities called off search-and-rescue operations on Thursday in the cities of Kilis and Sanliurfa, where destruction was not as severe as in other impacted regions.Across the border in war-riven Syria, assistance trickled in. Smaller aid organizations have sent in shipments to Syria's rebel-held northwest, but the first U.N. trucks arrived Thursday. The U.N. is only authorized to deliver aid through one border crossing and road damage has prevented that thus far.U.N. officials said more was needed, and they pleaded for humanitarian concerns to take precedence over politics.The scale of loss and suffering to tend to remained massive. Turkish authorities said Thursday that the death toll had risen to more than 16,100 in the country, with more than 64,000 injured. On the Syrian side, which includes in government-held and rebel-held areas, of the border, more than 3,100 have been reported dead and more than 5,000 injured.It was not clear how many people were still unaccounted for in both countries.Among the missing were members of a high-school volleyball team from northern Cyprus, as well as teachers and parents who had been staying in a hotel that collapsed, said Nazim Cavusoglu, the education minister in the breakaway Turkish Cypriot north, on Turkey’s NTV television.Turkey’s disaster management agency said more than 110,000 rescue personnel were now taking part in the effort and more than 5,500 vehicles, including tractors, cranes, bulldozers and excavators had been shipped. Teams from places as diverse as Poland, Switzerland, Israel and the West Bank were contributing to the deployment to Turkey.But international aid for Syria was far more sparse, where efforts have been hampered by the ongoing war and the isolation of the rebel-held region along the border that is surrounded by Russia-backed government forces. Syria itself is an international pariah under Western sanctions linked to the war.The U.N. shipment was scheduled before the earthquake happened but was delayed by road damage. U.N. officials said more trucks were set to follow.Erdogan, who continued touring devastated areas Thursday, has sought to deflect criticism of the response — and vowed it was improving. He renewed a promise to quake survivors that destroyed homes would be rebuilt within a year. He has said the government will distribute 10,000 Turkish lira ($532) to affected families.___

🎥 Americans among thousands dead in massive earthquake

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The rape case against a former Hutchinson police officer will have its pretrial hearing in April.

Following a Wednesday status conference, Judge Daniel Gilligan set the pretrial hearing for Todd W. Allen for April 10 at 8:30 a.m.

The formal charges filed against Allen include 17 felonies and seven misdemeanors.&nbsp;

Allen was arrested August 17&nbsp;and is charged with two counts of rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;

The charges also include three counts of attempted rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery, two more counts of aggravated sexual battery, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of kidnapping and two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;

The two counts of rape are level one person felonies.&nbsp; Allen also faces five counts of breach of privacy and two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery. &nbsp;He is currently free on a $250,000 bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660773528862.png" alt="Allen remains free on a $250,000 bond-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Allen remains free on a $250,000 bond-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The rape case against a former Hutchinson police officer will have its pretrial hearing in April.Following a Wednesday status conference, Judge Daniel Gilligan set the pretrial hearing for Todd W. Allen for April 10 at 8:30 a.m.The formal charges filed against Allen include 17 felonies and seven misdemeanors.&nbsp;Allen was arrested August 17&nbsp;and is charged with two counts of rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;The charges also include three counts of attempted rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery, two more counts of aggravated sexual battery, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of kidnapping and two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;The two counts of rape are level one person felonies.&nbsp; Allen also faces five counts of breach of privacy and two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery. &nbsp;He is currently free on a $250,000 bond.&nbsp;

Preliminary hearing set for ex Kan. cop charged with rape

By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/08/year-round-daylight-saving-time-has-a-chance-this-year-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — After years of trying, the Nebraska Legislature appears poised to pass a first step toward ending the twice-a-year tyranny of changing the clock.

State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion again
 proposed keeping Nebraska on daylight saving time, if Congress and a 
third neighboring state join Nebraska in passing such a law.

Legislative Bill 143 had its hearing Wednesday before the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.&nbsp;

“It seems everyone in the state hates
 changing their clocks twice a year,” Briese said. “This practice, the 
changing of our clocks, is actually hurting and killing people.”&nbsp;

Researchers have blamed the annual 
shifts between standard time and daylight saving time for increased 
numbers of car crashes, heart attacks, workplace injuries and medical 
dosage mistakes.

Add to that the general disdain 
toward time changes from parents with young kids and workers who are 
cranky about lost sleep, and you have a recipe for change, Briese said.

Beyond that, Briese and supporters 
argue that adding another hour of sunlight to the day through the winter
 months has potential economic benefits. Chief among them: People might 
shop more.

Briese cited a JP Morgan study that 
found people put nearly 2% more purchases on their credit cards in 
cities that had an additional hour of daylight during the winter.

Consumers spend about $80 billion a 
year in Nebraska, he said, so the state’s retailers, businesses and tax 
coffers could see the impacts of people spending an additional $530 
million.

Joe Kohout of the Nebraska Golf 
Alliance said an extra hour of daylight in the evenings means more 
people would play golf at Nebraska’s 300-plus 9- and 18-hole courses.

One opponent, Nebraska Broadcasters 
Association President Jim Timm, testified that TV and radio stations 
whose audiences cross state borders, in places such as Chadron and 
Omaha, would have a hard time scheduling shows with a patchwork of state
 laws. Timm said the broadcasters association would prefer action at the
 federal level, for uniformity.&nbsp;

LB 143 continues to garner bipartisan
 support, including from Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha, Sen. Danielle Conrad 
of Lincoln, Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha and Sen. John Lowe of Kearney.

Hunt said the push to stop changing 
the clocks generates more calls of support than any other issue. The 
public wants the change, she said, and so does she.

“It’s a real bipartisan bill,” Hunt said.

In written testimony, the committee received 22 letters in support, nine opposed and one neutral.

What’s different this year is the momentum from 19 other states that have passed similar laws, Briese said.

LB 143 requires two things to happen before Nebraskans can stop changing clocks.

First, Congress must pass a bill 
giving states the flexibility to choose to keep daylight saving time 
year-round. Currently, federal law allows states to either change clocks
 or choose standard time.

Congress has proposed several bills 
in recent years to do so, Briese said, and the likelihood of passage 
goes up each time a new state like Nebraska weighs in.&nbsp;

The Senate passed a bill last year allowing the change in March 2023, but the House did not.&nbsp;

Second, LB 143 requires three 
neighboring states to pass a similar law. Wyoming and Colorado already 
have, so it’s down to Iowa, South Dakota, Missouri or Kansas.

All four <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/transportation/daylight-saving-time-state-legislation">introduced legislation last year</a> to adopt the change, but like Nebraska, they have yet to pass it.

By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/08/year-round-daylight-saving-time-has-a-chance-this-year-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — After years of trying, the Nebraska Legislature appears poised to pass a first step toward ending the twice-a-year tyranny of changing the clock.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675897505239.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion (Courtesy of Unicameral Information Office)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion (Courtesy of Unicameral Information Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion again
 proposed keeping Nebraska on daylight saving time, if Congress and a 
third neighboring state join Nebraska in passing such a law.Legislative Bill 143 had its hearing Wednesday before the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.&nbsp;“It seems everyone in the state hates
 changing their clocks twice a year,” Briese said. “This practice, the 
changing of our clocks, is actually hurting and killing people.”&nbsp;Researchers have blamed the annual 
shifts between standard time and daylight saving time for increased 
numbers of car crashes, heart attacks, workplace injuries and medical 
dosage mistakes.Add to that the general disdain 
toward time changes from parents with young kids and workers who are 
cranky about lost sleep, and you have a recipe for change, Briese said.Beyond that, Briese and supporters 
argue that adding another hour of sunlight to the day through the winter
 months has potential economic benefits. Chief among them: People might 
shop more.Briese cited a JP Morgan study that 
found people put nearly 2% more purchases on their credit cards in 
cities that had an additional hour of daylight during the winter.Consumers spend about $80 billion a 
year in Nebraska, he said, so the state’s retailers, businesses and tax 
coffers could see the impacts of people spending an additional $530 
million.Joe Kohout of the Nebraska Golf 
Alliance said an extra hour of daylight in the evenings means more 
people would play golf at Nebraska’s 300-plus 9- and 18-hole courses.One opponent, Nebraska Broadcasters 
Association President Jim Timm, testified that TV and radio stations 
whose audiences cross state borders, in places such as Chadron and 
Omaha, would have a hard time scheduling shows with a patchwork of state
 laws. Timm said the broadcasters association would prefer action at the
 federal level, for uniformity.&nbsp;LB 143 continues to garner bipartisan
 support, including from Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha, Sen. Danielle Conrad 
of Lincoln, Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha and Sen. John Lowe of Kearney.Hunt said the push to stop changing 
the clocks generates more calls of support than any other issue. The 
public wants the change, she said, and so does she.“It’s a real bipartisan bill,” Hunt said.In written testimony, the committee received 22 letters in support, nine opposed and one neutral.What’s different this year is the momentum from 19 other states that have passed similar laws, Briese said.LB 143 requires two things to happen before Nebraskans can stop changing clocks.First, Congress must pass a bill 
giving states the flexibility to choose to keep daylight saving time 
year-round. Currently, federal law allows states to either change clocks
 or choose standard time.Congress has proposed several bills 
in recent years to do so, Briese said, and the likelihood of passage 
goes up each time a new state like Nebraska weighs in.&nbsp;The Senate passed a bill last year allowing the change in March 2023, but the House did not.&nbsp;Second, LB 143 requires three 
neighboring states to pass a similar law. Wyoming and Colorado already 
have, so it’s down to Iowa, South Dakota, Missouri or Kansas.All four <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/transportation/daylight-saving-time-state-legislation">introduced legislation last year</a> to adopt the change, but like Nebraska, they have yet to pass it.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Year-round daylight saving time has a chance this year in Nebraska

Online scammers have gotten so sneaky lately that it’s not just your elderly grandparents at risk—boomers, millennials and even Gen Z-ers can get taken advantage of if they’re not careful. That’s because these shady weirdos keep switching up their scamming tactics based on current events and our constantly changing digital culture.

But the good news is, if you keep your guard up and follow these tips, you’ll be way more likely to spot the scam and hold on to your hard-earned money. Here are five of the biggest internet scams to be aware of right now.

Crypto continues to be a trendy thing for the people who enjoy the thrill (and anxiety) of losing money at any given moment. And much like gambling, it can be addictive—a fact that scammers take advantage of. Cryptocurrency scams can happen in all kinds of ways. Scammers might set up fake websites that look like popular crypto sites in an attempt to get innocent people to send them money. They might also prey on people’s fears of missing out on an investment with massive returns by creating a fake early investment opportunity and pitching it to people online.

Scammers know people are desperate to get their loans forgiven, and they’ll often make fake forgiveness application sites in hopes of stealing people’s social security numbers, bank account info and cash. And because these people have absolutely no shame, these sites are often paired with urgent phone messages or emails trying to convince broke college grads it’s their last chance to apply.

Nothing can make you broke like the fluttery feelings of love—and with the growing popularity of online dating, this kind of scam is becoming more and more common. Someone creates a fake dating profile, reels in an unsuspecting victim, steals their heart with witty banter, and asks them to send money or buy them stuff due to some weird circumstance. This sucks because the poor scammee (that’s what I’m calling someone who was scammed—just go with it) loses out on cash&nbsp;and&nbsp;a chance at true love.

If you buy something online and it never shows up, you might be a victim of this type of scam. Scammers will often “sell” stuff on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, or set up fake online storefronts, take your money, then never deliver what you ordered. Don’t get me wrong, I love Facebook Marketplace as much as the next guy, but you have to be extra careful.

Scammers have figured out how to make almost identical copies of certain popular apps in order to get your money via in-app purchases. They’ll even create apps that steal your personal info once you download them. Triple-check that you’re getting the legit version of well-known apps, and think twice about downloading apps you’re unfamiliar with.

Also, beware of payment apps, like Zelle. Recently, there have been some situations where scammers claim to be the bank’s fraud department and call or text you to walk you through the problem. They’ll tell you to fix it by sending yourself money, but the money goes to their account instead, with little to no way of preventing it on your end.

Okay, so we’ve talked through a few internet scams you need to be aware of. Now let’s talk about four keys to steering clear of them:

It’s a good idea to change passwords for important accounts (like email, social media, bank accounts, etc.) every 90 days. And make them hard to guess by using combinations of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Even better, make your password a phrase and switch up some of the letters and characters. For example, I might pick the phrase Dog Dad Life, but in password form that could be D0gDadL1fe!

Also, if you ever get notified about a data breach, that means your password could’ve been leaked and you should change itimmediately&nbsp;to be safe. While you’re at it, set up two-factor authentication on every possible password—this creates an extra layer of security and makes it way harder for scammers and hackers to get your personal info.

Take a close look at the email subject line and sender before opening an email. And if you get an email from an address you’re unfamiliar with, don’t click on&nbsp;any&nbsp;links until you know more about where it came from—especially if you’re being told you won $2 million. Be extra cautious of people asking for personal information or anything money-related. When in doubt, mark it as spam.

Check your online bank account every day

Most banks will let you know if they see any suspicious activity in your account, but in case they miss anything, it’s still super important to log in every day to make sure there aren’t any weird charges. You’re in charge of your money, so think of yourself like your own personal armored guard with those aviator sunglasses. You can even pretend you have a cool van and everything.

If something or someone online seems&nbsp;off&nbsp;to you, listen to that Spidey-Sense. That goes for websites, iPads you might’ve won, and potential spouses. When in doubt, don’t click on or agree to anything that seems suspicious. And if you’re having a hard time telling if something’s a scam or not, have someone else weigh in. Better safe than sorry!

One of the biggest reasons it’s important to protect yourself against scams is because scammers can take this one step further by trying to steal your whole identity and use it for their own personal (and financial) gain. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/protect-yourself-from-identity-theft">this article</a>&nbsp;for more tips on steering clear of sleazy situations like this.

George Kamel&nbsp;is a personal finance expert with a countercultural approach to money. He’s the host of The Fine Print podcast and The EntreLeadership Podcast on the Ramsey Network. Since 2013, George has served at Ramsey Solutions, where his goal is to help people spend less, save more, and avoid consumer traps so they can make the most of their money. Follow George on<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeKamel?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgekamel/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialGeorgeKamel">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or find out more about him online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personalities">ramseysolutions.com/personalities</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636603961231.jpeg" alt="George Kamel&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>George Kamel&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GEORGE KAMEL&nbsp;Online scammers have gotten so sneaky lately that it’s not just your elderly grandparents at risk—boomers, millennials and even Gen Z-ers can get taken advantage of if they’re not careful. That’s because these shady weirdos keep switching up their scamming tactics based on current events and our constantly changing digital culture.But the good news is, if you keep your guard up and follow these tips, you’ll be way more likely to spot the scam and hold on to your hard-earned money. Here are five of the biggest internet scams to be aware of right now.Cryptocurrency ScamsCrypto continues to be a trendy thing for the people who enjoy the thrill (and anxiety) of losing money at any given moment. And much like gambling, it can be addictive—a fact that scammers take advantage of. Cryptocurrency scams can happen in all kinds of ways. Scammers might set up fake websites that look like popular crypto sites in an attempt to get innocent people to send them money. They might also prey on people’s fears of missing out on an investment with massive returns by creating a fake early investment opportunity and pitching it to people online.Student Loan Forgiveness ScamsScammers know people are desperate to get their loans forgiven, and they’ll often make fake forgiveness application sites in hopes of stealing people’s social security numbers, bank account info and cash. And because these people have absolutely no shame, these sites are often paired with urgent phone messages or emails trying to convince broke college grads it’s their last chance to apply.Romance ScamsNothing can make you broke like the fluttery feelings of love—and with the growing popularity of online dating, this kind of scam is becoming more and more common. Someone creates a fake dating profile, reels in an unsuspecting victim, steals their heart with witty banter, and asks them to send money or buy them stuff due to some weird circumstance. This sucks because the poor scammee (that’s what I’m calling someone who was scammed—just go with it) loses out on cash&nbsp;and&nbsp;a chance at true love.Online Purchase ScamsIf you buy something online and it never shows up, you might be a victim of this type of scam. Scammers will often “sell” stuff on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, or set up fake online storefronts, take your money, then never deliver what you ordered. Don’t get me wrong, I love Facebook Marketplace as much as the next guy, but you have to be extra careful.App ScamsScammers have figured out how to make almost identical copies of certain popular apps in order to get your money via in-app purchases. They’ll even create apps that steal your personal info once you download them. Triple-check that you’re getting the legit version of well-known apps, and think twice about downloading apps you’re unfamiliar with.Also, beware of payment apps, like Zelle. Recently, there have been some situations where scammers claim to be the bank’s fraud department and call or text you to walk you through the problem. They’ll tell you to fix it by sending yourself money, but the money goes to their account instead, with little to no way of preventing it on your end.Okay, so we’ve talked through a few internet scams you need to be aware of. Now let’s talk about four keys to steering clear of them:Change your passwordsIt’s a good idea to change passwords for important accounts (like email, social media, bank accounts, etc.) every 90 days. And make them hard to guess by using combinations of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Even better, make your password a phrase and switch up some of the letters and characters. For example, I might pick the phrase Dog Dad Life, but in password form that could be D0gDadL1fe!Also, if you ever get notified about a data breach, that means your password could’ve been leaked and you should change itimmediately&nbsp;to be safe. While you’re at it, set up two-factor authentication on every possible password—this creates an extra layer of security and makes it way harder for scammers and hackers to get your personal info.Pay attention to your emailsTake a close look at the email subject line and sender before opening an email. And if you get an email from an address you’re unfamiliar with, don’t click on&nbsp;any&nbsp;links until you know more about where it came from—especially if you’re being told you won $2 million. Be extra cautious of people asking for personal information or anything money-related. When in doubt, mark it as spam.Check your online bank account every dayMost banks will let you know if they see any suspicious activity in your account, but in case they miss anything, it’s still super important to log in every day to make sure there aren’t any weird charges. You’re in charge of your money, so think of yourself like your own personal armored guard with those aviator sunglasses. You can even pretend you have a cool van and everything.Trust your gutIf something or someone online seems&nbsp;off&nbsp;to you, listen to that Spidey-Sense. That goes for websites, iPads you might’ve won, and potential spouses. When in doubt, don’t click on or agree to anything that seems suspicious. And if you’re having a hard time telling if something’s a scam or not, have someone else weigh in. Better safe than sorry!One of the biggest reasons it’s important to protect yourself against scams is because scammers can take this one step further by trying to steal your whole identity and use it for their own personal (and financial) gain. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/protect-yourself-from-identity-theft">this article</a>&nbsp;for more tips on steering clear of sleazy situations like this.George Kamel&nbsp;is a personal finance expert with a countercultural approach to money. He’s the host of The Fine Print podcast and The EntreLeadership Podcast on the Ramsey Network. Since 2013, George has served at Ramsey Solutions, where his goal is to help people spend less, save more, and avoid consumer traps so they can make the most of their money. Follow George on<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeKamel?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgekamel/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialGeorgeKamel">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or find out more about him online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personalities">ramseysolutions.com/personalities</a>.

KAMEL: The latest internet scams and how to avoid them

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/proposal-to-help-dwindling-pheasant-population-panned-as-wrong-solution/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Pheasant hunting in South Dakota generates an estimated 
$220 million a year in retail spending and causes an annual flood of 
120,000 orange-clad hunters into the state.

But a Nebraska state senator’s effort to try to replicate that kind 
of economic impact by increasing Nebraska’s shrinking pheasant 
population prompted opposition from biologists and groups that work to 
increase wildlife populations.

They testified Wednesday that State Sen. Tom Brewer’s proposal to pay
 a $10 bounty on predators that prey on pheasants — as is done in South 
Dakota — is the wrong solution to a complicated problem.

Opponents of Legislative Bill 400 included the Nebraska Game and 
Parks Commission, Pheasants Forever, the Nebraska Sportsmen’s 
Foundation, the Nature Conservancy and famed National Geographic 
photographer Joel Sartore.

They maintained that the loss of habitat for ring-necked pheasants 
and poor weather during nesting season are the primary forces that have 
reduced bird populations since their peak in the 1960s.

Alicia Hardin, a wildlife administrator with the Game and Parks 
Commission, said a number of studies have found that if the right kind 
of habitat is provided, and the weather isn’t too cold and wet or too 
dry after birds hatch, pheasants will increase.

Statewide bounties on predators, she said, are hard to sustain 
financially and don’t account for all the animals that prey on pheasants
 and their eggs.

Nebraska, Hardin said, has lost about half of the grasslands 
preserved under the federal Conservation Reserve Program since its peak 
in the 1990s, which has contributed to the decline in pheasants. About 
351,000 acres were enrolled in CRP in 2021.

She added that the Game and Parks Commission, in 2017, launched an initiative to increase pheasant populations,<a target="_blank" href="http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1449393-2022-berggren-plan-web/0?"> the Berggren Plan</a>, that has impacted 300,000 acres of land. Investing funds in habitat is the best idea, Hardin said.

Increased prices for crops, others said, have contributed to an 
expansion of plowed fields and a decline in pheasant habitat. Others 
said modern farming practices, in which pesticides have rid fields of 
weeds and insects, are also to blame.

Supporters of LB 400, meanwhile, said that populations of coyotes, 
raccoons and other predators of pheasants appear to have increased, and 
with a drop in fur prices and trappers, there’s no way to control 
populations without an incentive.

They lamented the lack of opportunities for young hunters and the 
missed opportunity for spending on motels, food and hunting lodges that 
would come with more pheasants to pursue.

Brewer, at the conclusion of the public hearing on LB 400 before the 
Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee, expressed some anger that 
wildlife organizations had “ambushed” him in their opposition testimony,
 instead of working with him on amendments before the hearing.

He said that one idea suggested at the hearing — giving farmers a 
property tax break if they set aside acres for wildlife — had merit and 
that he remains committed to working on solutions.

The Natural Resources Committee took no action on LB 400 after its hearing Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675887594647.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/proposal-to-help-dwindling-pheasant-population-panned-as-wrong-solution/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Pheasant hunting in South Dakota generates an estimated 
$220 million a year in retail spending and causes an annual flood of 
120,000 orange-clad hunters into the state.But a Nebraska state senator’s effort to try to replicate that kind 
of economic impact by increasing Nebraska’s shrinking pheasant 
population prompted opposition from biologists and groups that work to 
increase wildlife populations.They testified Wednesday that State Sen. Tom Brewer’s proposal to pay
 a $10 bounty on predators that prey on pheasants — as is done in South 
Dakota — is the wrong solution to a complicated problem.<h2>Parade of opposition</h2>Opponents of Legislative Bill 400 included the Nebraska Game and 
Parks Commission, Pheasants Forever, the Nebraska Sportsmen’s 
Foundation, the Nature Conservancy and famed National Geographic 
photographer Joel Sartore.They maintained that the loss of habitat for ring-necked pheasants 
and poor weather during nesting season are the primary forces that have 
reduced bird populations since their peak in the 1960s.Alicia Hardin, a wildlife administrator with the Game and Parks 
Commission, said a number of studies have found that if the right kind 
of habitat is provided, and the weather isn’t too cold and wet or too 
dry after birds hatch, pheasants will increase.Statewide bounties on predators, she said, are hard to sustain 
financially and don’t account for all the animals that prey on pheasants
 and their eggs.<h2>Wildlife acres have declined</h2>Nebraska, Hardin said, has lost about half of the grasslands 
preserved under the federal Conservation Reserve Program since its peak 
in the 1990s, which has contributed to the decline in pheasants. About 
351,000 acres were enrolled in CRP in 2021.She added that the Game and Parks Commission, in 2017, launched an initiative to increase pheasant populations,<a target="_blank" href="http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1449393-2022-berggren-plan-web/0?"> the Berggren Plan</a>, that has impacted 300,000 acres of land. Investing funds in habitat is the best idea, Hardin said.Increased prices for crops, others said, have contributed to an 
expansion of plowed fields and a decline in pheasant habitat. Others 
said modern farming practices, in which pesticides have rid fields of 
weeds and insects, are also to blame.Supporters of LB 400, meanwhile, said that populations of coyotes, 
raccoons and other predators of pheasants appear to have increased, and 
with a drop in fur prices and trappers, there’s no way to control 
populations without an incentive.They lamented the lack of opportunities for young hunters and the 
missed opportunity for spending on motels, food and hunting lodges that 
would come with more pheasants to pursue.<h2>Brewer says he was ambushed</h2>Brewer, at the conclusion of the public hearing on LB 400 before the 
Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee, expressed some anger that 
wildlife organizations had “ambushed” him in their opposition testimony,
 instead of working with him on amendments before the hearing.He said that one idea suggested at the hearing — giving farmers a 
property tax break if they set aside acres for wildlife — had merit and 
that he remains committed to working on solutions.The Natural Resources Committee took no action on LB 400 after its hearing Wednesday.

Proposal to help dwindling pheasant population panned 

By ADAM GOLDSTEIN <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/07/usda-projects-farm-income-will-fall-in-2023-after-two-robust-years/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — After two strong years 
of growth, U.S. farm income is forecast to drop substantially in 2023 as
 commodity prices fall and expenses rise, the U.S. Department of 
Agriculture Economic Research Service reported Tuesday.

And with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings/">food prices projected to rise into 2023</a>, the nation’s producers will not be reaping the financial benefits.

The economic team said 
inflation-adjusted net cash profits are expected to decline from a 
record-high $195.3 billion last year to $150.3 billion in calendar year 
2023, a drop of 22.9%.

Projected net farm income will fall 
to $136.9 billion, according to the ERS, 18.2% below the calendar year 
2022 levels when adjusted for inflation. 2022 marked the best year on 
record for inflation-adjusted net farm income since 1973.

The division added that declines in 
farm income are expected to affect nearly all specialty operations and 
regions across the country.

The farm sector income and wealth 
forecast was the first of 2023. ERS senior economist Carrie Litkowski 
also spoke on a webinar about what the details of the forecast hold for 
farmers and legislators.

“The goal of forecasting is not to 
predict the future, but to tell you what you need to know to take 
meaningful action in the present,” Litkowski said.

She said that USDA data on farm income and wealth can contribute to discussions in Congress this year on <a target="_blank" href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2023/02/03/trade-agreements-access-to-foreign-markets-debated-in-u-s-senate-farm-bill-hearing/">the upcoming farm bill.</a>

The U.S. farm sector comprises roughly 2 million farms, which operate close to 900 million acres of land.

Litkowski said that the drop in net 
farm cash income and net farm income levels can be largely attributed to
 lower commodity prices. She noted the ERS forecast a 4% reduction in 
commodity cash receipts from calendar years 2022 to 2023, equal to $23.6
 billion.&nbsp;

Litkowski added that total crop cash 
receipts are expected to decline close to 6% from 2022, with corn and 
soy most affected. Still, Litkowski said cash receipts for both crops 
will remain at relatively high levels.&nbsp;

The economist also cited the impacts 
of a $5.4 billion reduction in direct government payments to farmers in 
2023, to $10.8 billion. This number reflects a forecast 34.4% drop in 
federal spending, which Litkowski attributed to declining payouts for 
USDA pandemic aid and disaster assistance programs.&nbsp;

Litkowski also attributed net farm 
income declines to growing production costs, forecast to increase by an 
inflation-adjusted $18.3 billion from 2022. Litkowski said these cost 
increases are driven predominantly by growth in interest rates, 
livestock and poultry expenses, and labor expenses.&nbsp;

The economists also cited growing 
operator dwelling expenses as affecting production costs for farmers, 
including factors like property taxes.

Litkowski noted that all farm 
businesses in the report, regardless of location or crop specialty, are 
forecast to see declines in cash receipts and government payments along 
with increasing costs.&nbsp;

The ERS noted that average net cash 
farm income for farm businesses is expected to fall 17.7% in nominal 
terms, to $92,400. A nominal dollar measure is an amount of money that 
has not had its value adjusted for the effects of inflation.&nbsp;

The economists added that all 
commodity specializations of farm businesses are forecast to receive 
lower average cash net income.&nbsp;

Total animal cash receipts are 
forecast to decline 8% from calendar years 2022 to 2023. The largest 
dollar decline for commodities is milk, which is forecast to see a $10 
billion decrease in cash receipts.&nbsp;

“Milk receipts will fall in 2023 because of a lower milk price,” Litkowski said.&nbsp;

Dairy and hog farmers are expected to see the largest relative decline in animal cash receipts from calendar years 2022 to 2023.

Cash receipts for eggs are also expected to decline 26% in 2023, compared to calendar year 2022.&nbsp;

Litkowski noted that avian flu caused
 the price of eggs to skyrocket over the past three years, and that the 
sector will start to recover from the shocks of these outbreaks in 2023.

Litkowski said that farmers growing cotton and specialty crops are also expected to see large nominal dollar declines.

Geographically, farm businesses in 
the Fruitful Rim and Northern Crescent regions are among those expected 
to see the largest net farm income declines.&nbsp;

The Fruitful Rim includes western 
Oregon, western Washington, south-central Idaho, western California, 
most of Arizona, the southern rim of Texas, Florida, southern Alabama 
and southern Georgia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Northern Crescent includes the 
upper Midwest and the Northeast, including Wisconsin, eastern Minnesota,
 Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maine, 
Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.&nbsp;

Farm businesses in the Fruitful Rim 
region are forecast to see the largest median nominal dollar decrease, 
of $46,700, and those in the Northern Crescent region are forecast to 
see the largest median percentage decrease in net cash farm income at 
29.9% per farm, according to the ERS.

The wellbeing of farm operator 
households is determined by a combination of on-farm and off-farm 
activity. Most income for many of these households comes from off the 
farm, according to the ERS.

The government service found that 
median total farm household income is forecast to decrease 0.4% in 2023 
from 2022, to $96,715, when adjusted for inflation. Yet median net farm 
income earned by farm households is expected to drop another $442, 
producing a median average of $1,123 in adjusted net farm household 
income losses in 2023.&nbsp;

Litkowski said this number should not cause panic.

“At the median, farm income is 
negative,” Litkowski explained. “But recall that half of all farms are 
what we call residential farms, where the primary occupation of the 
operator is not farming. So this results in a low and usually negative 
farm income at the median.”

Litkowski added that median off-farm 
income in 2023 is projected to grow to $91,080, a 0.4% increase from 
2022 when adjusted for inflation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675869239225.png" alt="Projected net farm income will fall an estimated 18.2% below the calendar year 2022 levels when adjusted for inflation, according to a USDA forecast. (Perry Beeman/Iowa Capital Dispatch)" />
 <figcaption>Projected net farm income will fall an estimated 18.2% below the calendar year 2022 levels when adjusted for inflation, according to a USDA forecast. (Perry Beeman/Iowa Capital Dispatch)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ADAM GOLDSTEIN <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/07/usda-projects-farm-income-will-fall-in-2023-after-two-robust-years/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — After two strong years 
of growth, U.S. farm income is forecast to drop substantially in 2023 as
 commodity prices fall and expenses rise, the U.S. Department of 
Agriculture Economic Research Service reported Tuesday.And with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings/">food prices projected to rise into 2023</a>, the nation’s producers will not be reaping the financial benefits. The economic team said 
inflation-adjusted net cash profits are expected to decline from a 
record-high $195.3 billion last year to $150.3 billion in calendar year 
2023, a drop of 22.9%.Projected net farm income will fall 
to $136.9 billion, according to the ERS, 18.2% below the calendar year 
2022 levels when adjusted for inflation. 2022 marked the best year on 
record for inflation-adjusted net farm income since 1973.The division added that declines in 
farm income are expected to affect nearly all specialty operations and 
regions across the country.The farm sector income and wealth 
forecast was the first of 2023. ERS senior economist Carrie Litkowski 
also spoke on a webinar about what the details of the forecast hold for 
farmers and legislators.“The goal of forecasting is not to 
predict the future, but to tell you what you need to know to take 
meaningful action in the present,” Litkowski said.She said that USDA data on farm income and wealth can contribute to discussions in Congress this year on <a target="_blank" href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2023/02/03/trade-agreements-access-to-foreign-markets-debated-in-u-s-senate-farm-bill-hearing/">the upcoming farm bill.</a>The U.S. farm sector comprises roughly 2 million farms, which operate close to 900 million acres of land.<h2>Broader farm income&nbsp;</h2>Litkowski said that the drop in net 
farm cash income and net farm income levels can be largely attributed to
 lower commodity prices. She noted the ERS forecast a 4% reduction in 
commodity cash receipts from calendar years 2022 to 2023, equal to $23.6
 billion.&nbsp;Litkowski added that total crop cash 
receipts are expected to decline close to 6% from 2022, with corn and 
soy most affected. Still, Litkowski said cash receipts for both crops 
will remain at relatively high levels.&nbsp;The economist also cited the impacts 
of a $5.4 billion reduction in direct government payments to farmers in 
2023, to $10.8 billion. This number reflects a forecast 34.4% drop in 
federal spending, which Litkowski attributed to declining payouts for 
USDA pandemic aid and disaster assistance programs.&nbsp;Litkowski also attributed net farm 
income declines to growing production costs, forecast to increase by an 
inflation-adjusted $18.3 billion from 2022. Litkowski said these cost 
increases are driven predominantly by growth in interest rates, 
livestock and poultry expenses, and labor expenses.&nbsp;The economists also cited growing 
operator dwelling expenses as affecting production costs for farmers, 
including factors like property taxes.<h2>Farm businesses</h2>Litkowski noted that all farm 
businesses in the report, regardless of location or crop specialty, are 
forecast to see declines in cash receipts and government payments along 
with increasing costs.&nbsp;The ERS noted that average net cash 
farm income for farm businesses is expected to fall 17.7% in nominal 
terms, to $92,400. A nominal dollar measure is an amount of money that 
has not had its value adjusted for the effects of inflation.&nbsp;The economists added that all 
commodity specializations of farm businesses are forecast to receive 
lower average cash net income.&nbsp;Total animal cash receipts are 
forecast to decline 8% from calendar years 2022 to 2023. The largest 
dollar decline for commodities is milk, which is forecast to see a $10 
billion decrease in cash receipts.&nbsp;“Milk receipts will fall in 2023 because of a lower milk price,” Litkowski said.&nbsp;Dairy and hog farmers are expected to see the largest relative decline in animal cash receipts from calendar years 2022 to 2023.Cash receipts for eggs are also expected to decline 26% in 2023, compared to calendar year 2022.&nbsp;Litkowski noted that avian flu caused
 the price of eggs to skyrocket over the past three years, and that the 
sector will start to recover from the shocks of these outbreaks in 2023.Litkowski said that farmers growing cotton and specialty crops are also expected to see large nominal dollar declines.Geographically, farm businesses in 
the Fruitful Rim and Northern Crescent regions are among those expected 
to see the largest net farm income declines.&nbsp;The Fruitful Rim includes western 
Oregon, western Washington, south-central Idaho, western California, 
most of Arizona, the southern rim of Texas, Florida, southern Alabama 
and southern Georgia.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Northern Crescent includes the 
upper Midwest and the Northeast, including Wisconsin, eastern Minnesota,
 Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maine, 
Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.&nbsp;Farm businesses in the Fruitful Rim 
region are forecast to see the largest median nominal dollar decrease, 
of $46,700, and those in the Northern Crescent region are forecast to 
see the largest median percentage decrease in net cash farm income at 
29.9% per farm, according to the ERS.<h2>Farm household income&nbsp;</h2>The wellbeing of farm operator 
households is determined by a combination of on-farm and off-farm 
activity. Most income for many of these households comes from off the 
farm, according to the ERS.The government service found that 
median total farm household income is forecast to decrease 0.4% in 2023 
from 2022, to $96,715, when adjusted for inflation. Yet median net farm 
income earned by farm households is expected to drop another $442, 
producing a median average of $1,123 in adjusted net farm household 
income losses in 2023.&nbsp;Litkowski said this number should not cause panic.“At the median, farm income is 
negative,” Litkowski explained. “But recall that half of all farms are 
what we call residential farms, where the primary occupation of the 
operator is not farming. So this results in a low and usually negative 
farm income at the median.”Litkowski added that median off-farm 
income in 2023 is projected to grow to $91,080, a 0.4% increase from 
2022 when adjusted for inflation.

USDA projects farm income will fall in 2023 after two robust years

By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/herbster-says-hes-thinking-about-2024-senate-race-other-political-options/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — Multi-state agribusinessman Charles Herbster might want another go at politics after losing the 2022 Republican primary for Nebraska governor to eventual Gov. Jim Pillen.

Herbster, in a statement, confirmed that he is considering a 2024 Senate bid against appointed U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb.

“I have had a lot of people both 
within Nebraska and Republicans involved in national politics reach out,
 encouraging me to run for the United States Senate in 2024,” Herbster 
said. “I am in the fortunate position right now where I have several 
different options available for my political future. The Senate in 2024 
is certainly one of those options.”&nbsp;

Herbster also is considering whether to take on Pillen again in 2026 for governor. 

In his statement, Herbster said he has not yet made a decision and has “no pending announcement.”

Herbster’s statement, published first Wednesday <a target="_blank" href="https://thedispatch.com/newsletter/dispatch-politics/ricketts-rival-herbster-mulls-2024-senate-challenge-in-nebraska/">in The Dispatch</a>,
 did not specify which Senate seat he is considering. Both Ricketts and 
two-term U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., are up for election in 2024. But
 a Herbster staffer this week confirmed Herbster has no interest in 
challenging Fischer. Ricketts and his political team declined to 
comment.

If Herbster runs, this would be his third attempt at winning a statewide race.

Herbster dropped out of the 
governor’s race in 2013, citing family health concerns. He later spent 
millions funding an unsuccessful bid by former State Sen. Beau McCoy 
against Ricketts in the Republican governor’s primary.

In 2020, Herbster and Ricketts were 
on opposite sides of an intra-party fight after&nbsp; Ricketts appointed 
Julie Slama to a southeast Nebraska legislative seat in Herbster’s 
district.&nbsp;

Ricketts backed Slama in the primary 
while Herbster backed then-Nebraska City realtor Janet Palmtag. Slama 
won, but the GOP on GOP fight festered.

In the 2022 race for governor, 
Ricketts, who was term limited, backed Pillen, including funding outside
 ads that criticized Herbster and State Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha.

During the race, Slama was one of <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/04/14/gop-state-senator-seven-other-women-say-charles-herbster-groped-them-he-denies-allegations/">eight women who came forward</a>
 to the Examiner saying Herbster had groped them at various political or
 pageant events. Herbster denied the allegations and, in public comments
 after the story was published, he accused Ricketts of being behind a 
political conspiracy involving the women’s accounts, which Ricketts 
denied.&nbsp;

Herbster and Slama sued each other in
 the aftermath, but both eventually agreed to drop their lawsuits. 
Neither would acknowledge a settlement or terms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675877815896.png" alt="Nebraska Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster accepts the endorsement of the State Troopers Association of Nebraska, the union that represents Nebraska State Patrol troopers during his 2022 bid for governor. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster accepts the endorsement of the State Troopers Association of Nebraska, the union that represents Nebraska State Patrol troopers during his 2022 bid for governor. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/herbster-says-hes-thinking-about-2024-senate-race-other-political-options/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — Multi-state agribusinessman Charles Herbster might want another go at politics after losing the 2022 Republican primary for Nebraska governor to eventual Gov. Jim Pillen.Herbster, in a statement, confirmed that he is considering a 2024 Senate bid against appointed U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb.“I have had a lot of people both 
within Nebraska and Republicans involved in national politics reach out,
 encouraging me to run for the United States Senate in 2024,” Herbster 
said. “I am in the fortunate position right now where I have several 
different options available for my political future. The Senate in 2024 
is certainly one of those options.”&nbsp;Herbster also is considering whether to take on Pillen again in 2026 for governor. In his statement, Herbster said he has not yet made a decision and has “no pending announcement.”Herbster’s statement, published first Wednesday <a target="_blank" href="https://thedispatch.com/newsletter/dispatch-politics/ricketts-rival-herbster-mulls-2024-senate-challenge-in-nebraska/">in The Dispatch</a>,
 did not specify which Senate seat he is considering. Both Ricketts and 
two-term U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., are up for election in 2024. But
 a Herbster staffer this week confirmed Herbster has no interest in 
challenging Fischer. Ricketts and his political team declined to 
comment.If Herbster runs, this would be his third attempt at winning a statewide race.Herbster dropped out of the 
governor’s race in 2013, citing family health concerns. He later spent 
millions funding an unsuccessful bid by former State Sen. Beau McCoy 
against Ricketts in the Republican governor’s primary.In 2020, Herbster and Ricketts were 
on opposite sides of an intra-party fight after&nbsp; Ricketts appointed 
Julie Slama to a southeast Nebraska legislative seat in Herbster’s 
district.&nbsp;Ricketts backed Slama in the primary 
while Herbster backed then-Nebraska City realtor Janet Palmtag. Slama 
won, but the GOP on GOP fight festered.In the 2022 race for governor, 
Ricketts, who was term limited, backed Pillen, including funding outside
 ads that criticized Herbster and State Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha.During the race, Slama was one of <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/04/14/gop-state-senator-seven-other-women-say-charles-herbster-groped-them-he-denies-allegations/">eight women who came forward</a>
 to the Examiner saying Herbster had groped them at various political or
 pageant events. Herbster denied the allegations and, in public comments
 after the story was published, he accused Ricketts of being behind a 
political conspiracy involving the women’s accounts, which Ricketts 
denied.&nbsp;Herbster and Slama sued each other in
 the aftermath, but both eventually agreed to drop their lawsuits. 
Neither would acknowledge a settlement or terms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Herbster thinking about 2024 Senate race, other political options

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/07/proposed-state-broadband-office-touted-as-more-effective-creative-in-closing-digital-divide/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — With at least 80,000 to 90,000 locations in Nebraska still 
lacking quality broadband internet service, a legislative committee on 
Tuesday heard the latest proposal to close the state’s long-nagging 
“digital divide.”

Gov. Jim Pillen has proposed the creation of a new state broadband 
office, supplanting the Nebraska Public Service Commission as the 
state’s main conduit for doling out funds to companies to expand the <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/09/07/nebraska-looks-to-deploy-millions-of-dollars-to-address-broadband-needs/">reach of high-speed internet service</a>.

A state broadband director, and an estimated nine other new staff 
members, would be housed within the Nebraska Department of 
Transportation. The office, estimated to cost $1.7 million a year, would
 assume the responsibility of granting out at least $100 million the 
state is scheduled to receive for broadband expansion from the federal 
infrastructure bill signed into law by President Biden.

Perhaps more importantly, the State Broadband Office would be in 
charge of determining exactly how many “unserved” farms and homes are in
 the state — defined as having internet speeds of less than 25 Mbps 
download/3 Mbps upload — which could mean another $100 million to $300 
million in federal funds for Nebraska.

Pillen has touted his plan as being “a more transparent, flexible, 
and proactive response for Nebraska’s broadband needs” than the PSC. 
Other advocates said Tuesday that it would provide a much more 
effective, and creative, way to improve internet services.

“This is good policy,” said Emily Haxby, a Gage County supervisor. 
“It’s good to see the governor recognize how important broadband is to 
the state.”

Haxby, whose family farms near Clatonia, was part of a unique 
initiative in Gage County that is delivering high-speed, fiber internet 
services to nearly 1,000 locations.

The county used $4 million of its American Rescue Plan Act funds and 
partnered with an internet provider for an $11 million project that 
other counties in the state are now seeking to duplicate, she said.

“We need to find creative ways to stretch these federal dollars,” 
Haxby said, noting that other states have formed similar broadband 
offices.

Representatives of the AARP, the League of Nebraska Municipalities 
and the Nebraska Farm Bureau also testified in favor of Pillen’s plan, 
contained in <a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Intro/LB683.pdf">Legislative Bill 683</a>.

Bruce Reiker of the Farm Bureau said the new office would have less 
distractions with “other obligations” than the PSC and might avoid “turf
 battles” that have harmed deployment of broadband across the state.

No one testified against LB 683 during its hearing before the 
Legislature’s Transportation and Telecommunications Committee, but some 
internet providers said they had concerns about such a major shift.

They argued that while having a broadband adviser and promoter 
associated with the Governor’s Office was a good idea, shifting the 
responsibility of awarding grants away from a proven provider, the PSC, 
in midstream might create problems.

“We believe delays will be inevitable,” said Tip O’Neill, of the 
Nebraska Telecommunications Association, a trade group for internet 
providers.

Dan Watermeier of Syracuse, who was elected to represent southeast 
Nebraska on the five-member Public Service Commission, said the agency 
has the “institutional knowledge” to handle the new federal funds coming
 from the infrastructure bill, via the Broadband Equity, Access and 
Deployment (BEAD) program. The PSC is already in charge of distributing 
$40 million through the state’s Broadband Bridge Act.

He said the PSC had already hired three new employees to deal with 
the BEAD program and recently signed a contract to produce a new, more 
accurate map of the state’s broadband needs.

Brainard Sen. Bruce Bostelman expressed a lack of confidence in the 
PSC to produce an accurate map showing where internet service is lacking
 in the state. A good map, he said, could mean the difference in 
millions of dollars of federal funds.

Getting accurate maps, Watermeier said, is a frustration of the PSC, 
as well. Such maps are outdated as soon as they’re produced, he said.

Omaha Sen. Wendy DeBoer also questioned why a shift to a new office was necessary.

“Has the PSC done something wrong that we don’t know about?” the senator asked.

Vicki Kramer, the director of the Nebraska Department of 
Transportation, said her agency is uniquely qualified to host the new 
broadband office and to “scale up” to meet the tight deadlines and 
technical information required to qualify for BEAD funds.

A five-year plan for the BEAD funds is due in August.

Kramer said the NDOT already has experience with obtaining funds from
 the federal infrastructure bill for highway projects and has plenty of 
staff to perform the outreach and planning work required of the BEAD 
program.

“There’s one organization in the 
state that can provide the level of support to make sure Nebraska makes 
the best use of these funds, and that’s the Department of 
Transportation,” she said.

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/07/proposed-state-broadband-office-touted-as-more-effective-creative-in-closing-digital-divide/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — With at least 80,000 to 90,000 locations in Nebraska still 
lacking quality broadband internet service, a legislative committee on 
Tuesday heard the latest proposal to close the state’s long-nagging 
“digital divide.”Gov. Jim Pillen has proposed the creation of a new state broadband 
office, supplanting the Nebraska Public Service Commission as the 
state’s main conduit for doling out funds to companies to expand the <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/09/07/nebraska-looks-to-deploy-millions-of-dollars-to-address-broadband-needs/">reach of high-speed internet service</a>.A state broadband director, and an estimated nine other new staff 
members, would be housed within the Nebraska Department of 
Transportation. The office, estimated to cost $1.7 million a year, would
 assume the responsibility of granting out at least $100 million the 
state is scheduled to receive for broadband expansion from the federal 
infrastructure bill signed into law by President Biden.Perhaps more importantly, the State Broadband Office would be in 
charge of determining exactly how many “unserved” farms and homes are in
 the state — defined as having internet speeds of less than 25 Mbps 
download/3 Mbps upload — which could mean another $100 million to $300 
million in federal funds for Nebraska.Pillen has touted his plan as being “a more transparent, flexible, 
and proactive response for Nebraska’s broadband needs” than the PSC. 
Other advocates said Tuesday that it would provide a much more 
effective, and creative, way to improve internet services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675869672767.jpeg" alt="Vicki Kramer, director of the Nebraska Department of Transportation, testifies Tuesday in favor of bill creating a state broadband office. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Vicki Kramer, director of the Nebraska Department of Transportation, testifies Tuesday in favor of bill creating a state broadband office. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>“This is good policy,” said Emily Haxby, a Gage County supervisor. 
“It’s good to see the governor recognize how important broadband is to 
the state.”<h2>A ‘creative way’ to stretch dollars</h2>Haxby, whose family farms near Clatonia, was part of a unique 
initiative in Gage County that is delivering high-speed, fiber internet 
services to nearly 1,000 locations.The county used $4 million of its American Rescue Plan Act funds and 
partnered with an internet provider for an $11 million project that 
other counties in the state are now seeking to duplicate, she said.“We need to find creative ways to stretch these federal dollars,” 
Haxby said, noting that other states have formed similar broadband 
offices.Representatives of the AARP, the League of Nebraska Municipalities 
and the Nebraska Farm Bureau also testified in favor of Pillen’s plan, 
contained in <a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Intro/LB683.pdf">Legislative Bill 683</a>.Bruce Reiker of the Farm Bureau said the new office would have less 
distractions with “other obligations” than the PSC and might avoid “turf
 battles” that have harmed deployment of broadband across the state.No one testified against LB 683 during its hearing before the 
Legislature’s Transportation and Telecommunications Committee, but some 
internet providers said they had concerns about such a major shift.<h2>Could cause delays</h2>They argued that while having a broadband adviser and promoter 
associated with the Governor’s Office was a good idea, shifting the 
responsibility of awarding grants away from a proven provider, the PSC, 
in midstream might create problems.“We believe delays will be inevitable,” said Tip O’Neill, of the 
Nebraska Telecommunications Association, a trade group for internet 
providers.Dan Watermeier of Syracuse, who was elected to represent southeast 
Nebraska on the five-member Public Service Commission, said the agency 
has the “institutional knowledge” to handle the new federal funds coming
 from the infrastructure bill, via the Broadband Equity, Access and 
Deployment (BEAD) program. The PSC is already in charge of distributing 
$40 million through the state’s Broadband Bridge Act.He said the PSC had already hired three new employees to deal with 
the BEAD program and recently signed a contract to produce a new, more 
accurate map of the state’s broadband needs.<h2>‘Has the PSC done something wrong?’</h2>Brainard Sen. Bruce Bostelman expressed a lack of confidence in the 
PSC to produce an accurate map showing where internet service is lacking
 in the state. A good map, he said, could mean the difference in 
millions of dollars of federal funds.Getting accurate maps, Watermeier said, is a frustration of the PSC, 
as well. Such maps are outdated as soon as they’re produced, he said.Omaha Sen. Wendy DeBoer also questioned why a shift to a new office was necessary.“Has the PSC done something wrong that we don’t know about?” the senator asked.Vicki Kramer, the director of the Nebraska Department of 
Transportation, said her agency is uniquely qualified to host the new 
broadband office and to “scale up” to meet the tight deadlines and 
technical information required to qualify for BEAD funds.A five-year plan for the BEAD funds is due in August.Kramer said the NDOT already has experience with obtaining funds from
 the federal infrastructure bill for highway projects and has plenty of 
staff to perform the outreach and planning work required of the BEAD 
program.“There’s one organization in the 
state that can provide the level of support to make sure Nebraska makes 
the best use of these funds, and that’s the Department of 
Transportation,” she said.

Proposed Neb. broadband office touted as more effective, creative

By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/07/nebraska-chamber-raising-states-tech-profile-is-one-key-to-filling-worker-void/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — With Nebraska today unable 
to fill as many as 80,000 jobs, the statewide business chamber wants to 
amplify the push to boost the Husker tech image and overall workforce 
numbers.

“This next generation goes where the 
technology jobs are,” Bryan Slone, president of the Nebraska Chamber of 
Commerce and Industry, said Tuesday. ‘We need to be known as a 
technology state.”

Slone and Alex Reuss, the new head of
 chamber policy and legislation efforts, spoke to reporters about the 
organization’s priorities and bills it will champion in the Nebraska 
Legislature.

In addition to supporting Gov. Jim 
Pillen’s budget and tax plan, the chamber sees an urgency to build the 
state’s workforce, in part with tax breaks for businesses that expand 
research capabilities.

Slone pointed to the 2019 Blueprint 
Nebraska report that showed Nebraska often ranking in the bottom 15 of 
states when it came to various indicators of innovation and 
entrepreneurial health.

Among ways to raise Nebraska’s tech 
reputation, Slone said, is to renew the state’s research and development
 tax credit, and allow deductions for business equipment, research and 
experimental costs.

To help accomplish that, he said, the chamber would be throwing its support behind Legislative Bills 491 and 492.

The worker shortage, Slone said, is 
not a temporary setback. He cited declining births —&nbsp;from a rate of 
about 24 births per 1,000 Nebraskans in 1960 to 14 per 1,000 in 2015. He
 said the trend continues.

Slone offered insight with his own baby boomer generation, which until 2019 was the nation’s largest living adult generation.

“We’re not replacing boomers with new
 people in Nebraska,” said Slone. “Each year we need to be recruiting 
thousands of people to Nebraska just to fill those exiting the job 
market.”

According to the national Pew 
Research Center, the millennial generation continues to grow as young 
immigrants increase in number and as boomer deaths exceed the count of 
older immigrants arriving in the U.S.

Slone said there would be no 
long-term solution to building the workforce without federal policies 
and laws changing to “dramatically” increase the vetting and approval of
 international work visas.

“No state has more to gain than 
Nebraska,” he said of changing policies pertaining to immigrants and 
refugees. “We have 50,000 to 80,000 jobs that we can’t fill today. That 
number, as long as the economy keeps growing, could be over 100,000 next
 year.”

Slone endorsed the need to boost career and technical education programs, as outlined in Legislative Bill 610.

He pushed for passage of other 
proposed laws that would invest in scholarships, technical training and 
building projects that could train and attract students, adding that the
 state needs to enroll college enrollment by 10%.

According to a recent survey of 
statewide chamber members, top barriers to business growth in Nebraska 
are talent and government and taxes.

Surfacing as the top ways that 
communities could expand were the creation of more housing and more 
child care and education opportunities.

Slone said those results were consistent throughout Nebraska communities.

“If we were to make a move that would
 really bring thousands of people to our state, right now we don’t have 
enough affordable housing and child care to address those families,” he 
said.

Slone envisions those issues remaining top of mind for the next decade.

“As we try to create economic 
opportunity, we try to attract 18- to 34-year-olds, we really need to 
attract new young workers and families literally in the thousands per 
year,” Slone said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675869505067.png" alt="Courtesy of Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry</figcaption>
 </figure>By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/07/nebraska-chamber-raising-states-tech-profile-is-one-key-to-filling-worker-void/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — With Nebraska today unable 
to fill as many as 80,000 jobs, the statewide business chamber wants to 
amplify the push to boost the Husker tech image and overall workforce 
numbers.“This next generation goes where the 
technology jobs are,” Bryan Slone, president of the Nebraska Chamber of 
Commerce and Industry, said Tuesday. ‘We need to be known as a 
technology state.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673034958365.jpeg" alt="Bryan Slone, president of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Bryan Slone, president of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Slone and Alex Reuss, the new head of
 chamber policy and legislation efforts, spoke to reporters about the 
organization’s priorities and bills it will champion in the Nebraska 
Legislature.In addition to supporting Gov. Jim 
Pillen’s budget and tax plan, the chamber sees an urgency to build the 
state’s workforce, in part with tax breaks for businesses that expand 
research capabilities.Slone pointed to the 2019 Blueprint 
Nebraska report that showed Nebraska often ranking in the bottom 15 of 
states when it came to various indicators of innovation and 
entrepreneurial health.Among ways to raise Nebraska’s tech 
reputation, Slone said, is to renew the state’s research and development
 tax credit, and allow deductions for business equipment, research and 
experimental costs.To help accomplish that, he said, the chamber would be throwing its support behind Legislative Bills 491 and 492.The worker shortage, Slone said, is 
not a temporary setback. He cited declining births —&nbsp;from a rate of 
about 24 births per 1,000 Nebraskans in 1960 to 14 per 1,000 in 2015. He
 said the trend continues.Slone offered insight with his own baby boomer generation, which until 2019 was the nation’s largest living adult generation.“We’re not replacing boomers with new
 people in Nebraska,” said Slone. “Each year we need to be recruiting 
thousands of people to Nebraska just to fill those exiting the job 
market.”According to the national Pew 
Research Center, the millennial generation continues to grow as young 
immigrants increase in number and as boomer deaths exceed the count of 
older immigrants arriving in the U.S.Slone said there would be no 
long-term solution to building the workforce without federal policies 
and laws changing to “dramatically” increase the vetting and approval of
 international work visas.“No state has more to gain than 
Nebraska,” he said of changing policies pertaining to immigrants and 
refugees. “We have 50,000 to 80,000 jobs that we can’t fill today. That 
number, as long as the economy keeps growing, could be over 100,000 next
 year.”Slone endorsed the need to boost career and technical education programs, as outlined in Legislative Bill 610.He pushed for passage of other 
proposed laws that would invest in scholarships, technical training and 
building projects that could train and attract students, adding that the
 state needs to enroll college enrollment by 10%.According to a recent survey of 
statewide chamber members, top barriers to business growth in Nebraska 
are talent and government and taxes.Surfacing as the top ways that 
communities could expand were the creation of more housing and more 
child care and education opportunities.Slone said those results were consistent throughout Nebraska communities.“If we were to make a move that would
 really bring thousands of people to our state, right now we don’t have 
enough affordable housing and child care to address those families,” he 
said.Slone envisions those issues remaining top of mind for the next decade.“As we try to create economic 
opportunity, we try to attract 18- to 34-year-olds, we really need to 
attract new young workers and families literally in the thousands per 
year,” Slone said.