For the first time this century, Nebraska’s property taxpayers opened their statements in December and saw a reduction.&nbsp; The state’s economy continues to grow at a near record pace and our population has surpassed two million. We’re proud of our accomplishments, and 2024 will go down in history as a success. Now, with a new legislature in place, it’s time to turn our attention to the future and continue efforts to protect our kids, address the property tax crisis, grow our agriculture and defend our commonsense values.

It’s a big job, but we’re going to do it – for Nebraska.

Suzanne and I love celebrating those who have made a difference. The day after the State of the State, I traveled to the western part of Nebraska – Red Willow County and the incredible community of McCook – where I had the honor of presenting three WWII veterans with medallions to thank them for their service.

It was an amazing event. These heroes remind us of the deep meaning and responsibility that comes from stepping up to serve. As the legislative session moves forward, my challenge to the body is keeping in mind our collective purpose, which is serving others. With that perspective in mind, here’s where my focus lies:

We all agree our kids are our future, and we can’t ever give up on our kids. We need to provide protections like banning cell phones in schools, helping parents fight back against Big Tech giants, strengthening child pornography laws, and ensuring that women’s spaces are protected especially for our daughters and granddaughters.

We’ve made good progress in cutting property taxes over the past two years, but we have more work to do. We need to address the outdated TEEOSA school funding formula and make the Cornhusker State more competitive with its neighbors and more attractive to families and businesses who want to stay here or are thinking about moving here.

Nebraska gets a raw deal on federal mandates that provide us with less funding when our economy is doing well. We owe it to every person in our state to not only overcome the budget gap, but deliver a strong conservative budget that also provides investments in educating our kids and holding the line on property taxes. That means reducing spending, putting idle pillowcase money to work, reversing recent incentive and aid expansions, and finding ways to fix our tax structure.

It’s a privilege to be the first governor in 100 years to come from agriculture. Ag drives our state’s economy. Having met recently with President Trump and his Secretary of Agriculture nominee Brooke Rollins, I’m committed to seeing that Nebraska farmers and ranchers have a seat at the table in our nation’s capital. Here at home, we’re leading on legislation to ban the sale of lab-grown meat and are working hard to eliminate red tape and redundancies by getting government out of the way.

I ask Nebraskan’s this question all the time: What is the thing you love best about our state? The answer is nearly unanimous. It’s the PEOPLE!&nbsp;

We have a certain way of doing things, of treating people with respect and helping each other out.&nbsp; Not everyone is a Republican, but our overall conservative approach includes being pro-family, pro-business, and pro-limited government. All are foundational to what makes this a great state. My administration is committed to making Nebraska the safest and best place to raise kids and run a business. Nothing is more important.

Back to McCook. After presenting a WWII medal to a veteran named John, he asked if he could take the opportunity to say something? With a chuckle, I told him he certainly earned the medallion, so of course, he could say anything he wanted! As Nebraskans do, this veteran thought of others first. He dedicated the medal to all his fellow service members who didn’t make it home. By the end of the event, which was filled with family members (including some lucky great grandkids who got to play hooky) and veterans from other wars, there was barely a dry eye in the room.These men, all in their upper 90s, served our country in a time of need. It’s our job now to make sure that we honor their sacrifices. It’s with that heart of service and commitment to bettering Nebraska for the next generation that we turn to our work in this year’s legislature.

Governor Jim PillenFor the first time this century, Nebraska’s property taxpayers opened their statements in December and saw a reduction.&nbsp; The state’s economy continues to grow at a near record pace and our population has surpassed two million. We’re proud of our accomplishments, and 2024 will go down in history as a success. Now, with a new legislature in place, it’s time to turn our attention to the future and continue efforts to protect our kids, address the property tax crisis, grow our agriculture and defend our commonsense values.It’s a big job, but we’re going to do it – for Nebraska.Suzanne and I love celebrating those who have made a difference. The day after the State of the State, I traveled to the western part of Nebraska – Red Willow County and the incredible community of McCook – where I had the honor of presenting three WWII veterans with medallions to thank them for their service.It was an amazing event. These heroes remind us of the deep meaning and responsibility that comes from stepping up to serve. As the legislative session moves forward, my challenge to the body is keeping in mind our collective purpose, which is serving others. With that perspective in mind, here’s where my focus lies:KidsWe all agree our kids are our future, and we can’t ever give up on our kids. We need to provide protections like banning cell phones in schools, helping parents fight back against Big Tech giants, strengthening child pornography laws, and ensuring that women’s spaces are protected especially for our daughters and granddaughters.Taxes&nbsp;We’ve made good progress in cutting property taxes over the past two years, but we have more work to do. We need to address the outdated TEEOSA school funding formula and make the Cornhusker State more competitive with its neighbors and more attractive to families and businesses who want to stay here or are thinking about moving here.Nebraska gets a raw deal on federal mandates that provide us with less funding when our economy is doing well. We owe it to every person in our state to not only overcome the budget gap, but deliver a strong conservative budget that also provides investments in educating our kids and holding the line on property taxes. That means reducing spending, putting idle pillowcase money to work, reversing recent incentive and aid expansions, and finding ways to fix our tax structure.AgricultureIt’s a privilege to be the first governor in 100 years to come from agriculture. Ag drives our state’s economy. Having met recently with President Trump and his Secretary of Agriculture nominee Brooke Rollins, I’m committed to seeing that Nebraska farmers and ranchers have a seat at the table in our nation’s capital. Here at home, we’re leading on legislation to ban the sale of lab-grown meat and are working hard to eliminate red tape and redundancies by getting government out of the way.ValuesI ask Nebraskan’s this question all the time: What is the thing you love best about our state? The answer is nearly unanimous. It’s the PEOPLE!&nbsp;We have a certain way of doing things, of treating people with respect and helping each other out.&nbsp; Not everyone is a Republican, but our overall conservative approach includes being pro-family, pro-business, and pro-limited government. All are foundational to what makes this a great state. My administration is committed to making Nebraska the safest and best place to raise kids and run a business. Nothing is more important.Back to McCook. After presenting a WWII medal to a veteran named John, he asked if he could take the opportunity to say something? With a chuckle, I told him he certainly earned the medallion, so of course, he could say anything he wanted! As Nebraskans do, this veteran thought of others first. He dedicated the medal to all his fellow service members who didn’t make it home. By the end of the event, which was filled with family members (including some lucky great grandkids who got to play hooky) and veterans from other wars, there was barely a dry eye in the room.These men, all in their upper 90s, served our country in a time of need. It’s our job now to make sure that we honor their sacrifices. It’s with that heart of service and commitment to bettering Nebraska for the next generation that we turn to our work in this year’s legislature.

Serving Nebraskans and Focusing our Priorities

ARLINGTON, VA., January 31, 2025 — Gerber Products Company is initiating a recall and discontinuation of all batches of GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS due to a potential choking hazard for babies and young children, according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration.

GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS were distributed nationwide via the internet and to distribution centers and retail stores in the following states and territories:

Recalled products can be identified as follows:

This recall and discontinuation is isolated to GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE and GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA.

The recall was initiated after receiving consumer complaints of choking incidents. To date, one emergency room visit has been reported to the firm.

Consumers who may have purchased GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS should not feed this product to their child and can return the product to the retailer where it was purchased for a refund. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a health care provider. For any additional support needed, Gerber is available 24/7 at 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237).

We are working with the U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) on this recall and will cooperate with them fully.

For more information, consumers could call 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738595746534.png" alt="Image FDA" />
 <figcaption>Image FDA</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, VA., January 31, 2025 — Gerber Products Company is initiating a recall and discontinuation of all batches of GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS due to a potential choking hazard for babies and young children, according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration.GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS were distributed nationwide via the internet and to distribution centers and retail stores in the following states and territories:Recalled products can be identified as follows:<ul>
 <li>GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE, Net Wt. 3.2 Oz (90g), with UPC 0 15000 04618 7, all lot codes</li><li>GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA, Net Wt. 3.2 Oz (90g), with UPC 0 15000 04608 8, all lot codes</li><li>GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA, Net Wt. 1.59 Oz (45g), with UPC 0 15000 01015 7, all lot codes</li>
 </ul>This recall and discontinuation is isolated to GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE and GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA.The recall was initiated after receiving consumer complaints of choking incidents. To date, one emergency room visit has been reported to the firm.Consumers who may have purchased GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS should not feed this product to their child and can return the product to the retailer where it was purchased for a refund. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a health care provider. For any additional support needed, Gerber is available 24/7 at 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237).We are working with the U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) on this recall and will cooperate with them fully.For more information, consumers could call 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237)

Gerber recalls baby teething sticks over possible choking hazard

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly awarded prizes to three teams of aspiring college entrepreneurs through the 2nd&nbsp;Annual Nebraska Governor’s New Venture Competition. Awardees were announced during Thursday’s Nebraska Business Hall of Fame banquet at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. Ten teams were selected as semi-finalists. The winners, prize amounts and a description of each project follow:

First Place: Golden Garden Compost, UNO, $20,000 prize

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Golden Garden Compost creates premium organic compost for home gardeners using efficient production and innovative marketing to maximize profits.

Second Place: brAIn Rot, UNL, $15,000 prize

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; brAIn Rot is an educational platform that helps developers enhance their coding skills by solving real world puzzles and competing in coding contests.

Third Place: IndoFilm, UNL, $10,000 prize

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; InfoFilm helps share the impactful stories within the agriculture industry through videography, product photography, branding photography and social media management.&nbsp;

“This program is a great opportunity to publicize and support Nebraska-based ideas with world-changing potential,” said Lt. Gov. Kelly. “This year’s pool of finalists brought a variety of ideas to impact education, healthcare, agriculture, AI and other significant areas. They are risk takers willing to put in the long hours for the potential rewards of starting a new venture and watching it blossom.”&nbsp;

Governor Jim Pillen created the competition in 2023 to showcase and encourage student-led entrepreneurship. The competition is designed for contemplated and pre-seed businesses. Applicants must designate how their business falls into one of nine industry tracks: Agtech, Fintech/Insurtech, Cleantech, Advanced Manufacturing, Biotech/Healthtech, Emerging Media Arts, Sportstech, General Tech and the Bioeconomy. Submissions must have been received by Dec. 15, 2024.&nbsp;

This year, 15 teams – including undergraduate and graduate students – submitted proposals. Participating teams hailed from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL), University of Nebraska – Omaha (UNO), University of Nebraska – Kearney (UNK) and Metro Community College (MCC). The 15 teams made their initial pitch virtually to a panel of judges representing Flyover Capital, Nebraska Innovation Labs, Nelnet Ventures, Redbud VC and Tech Nebraska. Judges evaluated each project and whittled the group to 10 semi-finalists.&nbsp;

“Starting a business is hard enough but starting a business while also attending college is extremely challenging due to time constraints and academic obligations,” said Dan Hoffman, CEO of Invest Nebraska. “Nebraska’s entrepreneurial ecosystem of startup founders, funders, and service providers are excited to mentor and support these young teams as they begin their entrepreneurial journey.”

Semi-finalist teams were mentored leading up to their final project presentation yesterday during the Nebraska State Chamber of Commerce annual meeting. The judges, from Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, MOVE Venture Capital, Nelnet, Nave Analytics, Nebraska Public Power District and&nbsp;Workshop,&nbsp;selected the awardees.&nbsp;

“I appreciate that Governor Pillen is prioritizing entrepreneurship as a key economic development strategy,” said Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) Director K.C. Belitz. “The New Venture Competition is a great way to showcase and encourage the inventiveness of Nebraska’s rising generation. Across the state, we’re building an entrepreneurial ecosystem to support young Nebraskans in turning their ideas into successful businesses.”

“Congratulations to the 15 teams of students who shared their ideas for pursuing an entrepreneurial opportunity and competed in the New Venture Competition,” added Nebraska Chamber President Bryan Slone.&nbsp; “We’re always excited to support the next generation of Nebraska business professionals and it was exciting to watch these young entrepreneurs reach new heights.”

Sponsors for the New Venture Competition include the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), Invest Nebraska, Nebraska Diplomats, Nebraska Economic Developers Association (NEDA) and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).

For more information about the Governor’s New Venture Competition, visit the contest’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnegovnewventure.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C0b3d096d68374b10bf7108dd42e394c8%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638740267505689124%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1mVR%2FeYURHYj6crbTvs6%2BXiMdw5ZSKtMfQsqEjy8NwE%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://negovnewventure.com</a>.

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly awarded prizes to three teams of aspiring college entrepreneurs through the 2nd&nbsp;Annual Nebraska Governor’s New Venture Competition. Awardees were announced during Thursday’s Nebraska Business Hall of Fame banquet at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. Ten teams were selected as semi-finalists. The winners, prize amounts and a description of each project follow:First Place: Golden Garden Compost, UNO, $20,000 prize&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Golden Garden Compost creates premium organic compost for home gardeners using efficient production and innovative marketing to maximize profits.Second Place: brAIn Rot, UNL, $15,000 prize&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; brAIn Rot is an educational platform that helps developers enhance their coding skills by solving real world puzzles and competing in coding contests.Third Place: IndoFilm, UNL, $10,000 prize&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; InfoFilm helps share the impactful stories within the agriculture industry through videography, product photography, branding photography and social media management.&nbsp;“This program is a great opportunity to publicize and support Nebraska-based ideas with world-changing potential,” said Lt. Gov. Kelly. “This year’s pool of finalists brought a variety of ideas to impact education, healthcare, agriculture, AI and other significant areas. They are risk takers willing to put in the long hours for the potential rewards of starting a new venture and watching it blossom.”&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen created the competition in 2023 to showcase and encourage student-led entrepreneurship. The competition is designed for contemplated and pre-seed businesses. Applicants must designate how their business falls into one of nine industry tracks: Agtech, Fintech/Insurtech, Cleantech, Advanced Manufacturing, Biotech/Healthtech, Emerging Media Arts, Sportstech, General Tech and the Bioeconomy. Submissions must have been received by Dec. 15, 2024.&nbsp;This year, 15 teams – including undergraduate and graduate students – submitted proposals. Participating teams hailed from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL), University of Nebraska – Omaha (UNO), University of Nebraska – Kearney (UNK) and Metro Community College (MCC). The 15 teams made their initial pitch virtually to a panel of judges representing Flyover Capital, Nebraska Innovation Labs, Nelnet Ventures, Redbud VC and Tech Nebraska. Judges evaluated each project and whittled the group to 10 semi-finalists.&nbsp;“Starting a business is hard enough but starting a business while also attending college is extremely challenging due to time constraints and academic obligations,” said Dan Hoffman, CEO of Invest Nebraska. “Nebraska’s entrepreneurial ecosystem of startup founders, funders, and service providers are excited to mentor and support these young teams as they begin their entrepreneurial journey.”Semi-finalist teams were mentored leading up to their final project presentation yesterday during the Nebraska State Chamber of Commerce annual meeting. The judges, from Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, MOVE Venture Capital, Nelnet, Nave Analytics, Nebraska Public Power District and&nbsp;Workshop,&nbsp;selected the awardees.&nbsp;“I appreciate that Governor Pillen is prioritizing entrepreneurship as a key economic development strategy,” said Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) Director K.C. Belitz. “The New Venture Competition is a great way to showcase and encourage the inventiveness of Nebraska’s rising generation. Across the state, we’re building an entrepreneurial ecosystem to support young Nebraskans in turning their ideas into successful businesses.”“Congratulations to the 15 teams of students who shared their ideas for pursuing an entrepreneurial opportunity and competed in the New Venture Competition,” added Nebraska Chamber President Bryan Slone.&nbsp; “We’re always excited to support the next generation of Nebraska business professionals and it was exciting to watch these young entrepreneurs reach new heights.”Sponsors for the New Venture Competition include the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), Invest Nebraska, Nebraska Diplomats, Nebraska Economic Developers Association (NEDA) and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).For more information about the Governor’s New Venture Competition, visit the contest’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnegovnewventure.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C0b3d096d68374b10bf7108dd42e394c8%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638740267505689124%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1mVR%2FeYURHYj6crbTvs6%2BXiMdw5ZSKtMfQsqEjy8NwE%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://negovnewventure.com</a>.

Lt. Gov. Kelly Announces Winners of 2nd Annual New Venture Competition

Punxsutawney Phil handlers said he has seen his shadow and is predicting six more weeks of wintry weather.&nbsp; Click below to watch the famous groundhog.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738500732773.png" alt=" Punxsutawney Phil on Sunday morning- image from the video" />
 <figcaption> Punxsutawney Phil on Sunday morning- image from the video</figcaption>
 </figure>Punxsutawney Phil handlers said he has seen his shadow and is predicting six more weeks of wintry weather.&nbsp; Click below to watch the famous groundhog.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Io374gxgT6E?si=xtOckYSpq8_I_RSf&amp;start=458" 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>

🎥Groundhog Day 2025: Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia on Saturday, according to a statement from the&nbsp;U.S. Africa Command.

The command’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed in the airstrikes and no civilians were harmed. U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian harm. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of this operation and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the operation will not be released in order to ensure continued operations security.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738433734400.png" alt="Photo released Saturday from U.S. Africa Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo released Saturday from U.S. Africa Command</figcaption>
 </figure>In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia on Saturday, according to a statement from the&nbsp;U.S. Africa Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia. These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in,…&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1885740103223648412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The command’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed in the airstrikes and no civilians were harmed. U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian harm. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa.U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of this operation and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the operation will not be released in order to ensure continued operations security.

U.S. forces conduct airstrike targeting ISIS in Somalia

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump plans to implement tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China on Saturday, potentially starting off a trade war that would likely lead to price increases on groceries and numerous other products.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing Friday that Trump will place 25% tariffs on goods coming into the United States from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tariff on imports from China. Tariffs are paid by businesses bringing goods into the United States from other countries and they often pass on the increase in costs to consumers.

“The tariffs are incoming tomorrow on Canada and the reason for that is because both Canada and Mexico have both allowed an unprecedented invasion of illegal fentanyl that is killing American citizens and also illegal immigrants into our country,” Leavitt said.

Trump hasn’t yet decided if he will later implement tariffs on the European Union, made up of&nbsp;<a href="https://european-union.europa.eu/easy-read_en" target="_blank">27 countries</a>, according to Leavitt.

“I won’t get ahead of the president on tariffs when it comes to the European Union,” she said.

Trump said later Friday from the Oval Office that he wasn’t using the tariffs as a negotiating tool, but as a way to raise revenue for the federal government and bring attention to fentanyl flowing into the country.

“We’re not looking for a concession. We’ll just see what happens,” Trump said.

The new tariffs will be stacked on top of existing tariffs, he said.

Trump said he planned to add additional tariffs at some point on computer chips and “things associated with chips,” oil and gas, steel, aluminum, copper, pharmaceuticals and “all forms of medicine.”

Trump said he will likely implement the oil and gas tariffs on Feb. 18, but didn’t provide dates for the other tariffs.

Trump brushed aside a question about how tariffs would impact prices, saying he was elected to reduce inflation. He said he wasn’t concerned about the stock market’s reaction on Friday afternoon to the impending tariffs.&nbsp;

Many economists, including those at conservative think tanks, like the American Enterprise Institute, have warned against broadly applying tariffs in this way.

Phil Gramm, former Republican chairman of the Senate Banking Committee and nonresident senior fellow at AEI, and Larry Summers, former Treasury Secretary during the Clinton administration,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/a-letter-to-trump-from-economists-tariffs-policy-protectionism-economy-9a063b69?mod=opinion_lead_pos5" target="_blank">wrote an op-ed published by the Wall Street Journal</a>&nbsp;on Thursday urging Trump not to implement tariffs.

“Our united opposition to non-defense-related tariffs is based not on our faith in free trade but on evidence that tariffs are harmful to the economy,” they wrote.

“Protective tariffs distort domestic production by inducing domestic producers to commit labor and capital to produce goods and services that could have been acquired more cheaply on the international market,” Gramm and Summers wrote. “That labor and capital are in turn diverted from producing goods and services that couldn’t be acquired more cheaply internationally. In the process, productivity, wages and economic growth fall while prices rise. Tariffs and the retaliation they bring also poison our economic and security alliances.”

Leavitt said during the press briefing that only Trump could decide whether he would eventually lift or alter the tariffs, while brushing aside the potential impacts to the U.S. economy.&nbsp;

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service writes on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/chart-detail?chartId=58394" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;that Canada and Mexico “are the United States’ first and third largest suppliers of agricultural products (averaging $30.9 billion and $25.5 billion in 2017–21, respectively).

“Mexico supplied the United States with 31 percent of imported horticultural products including fruit, vegetables, and alcoholic beverages. Canada is also a source of horticultural products, as well as grains, and meats.”

The Office of the United States Trade Representative writes on its&nbsp;<a href="https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/china-mongolia-taiwan/peoples-republic-china" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;that the U.S. imported $562.9 billion worth of goods from China during 2022.

U.S. agricultural exports to China, which could be impacted by retaliatory tariffs, totaled $36.4 billion during fiscal year 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fas.usda.gov/data/record-us-fy-2022-agricultural-exports-china" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;</a>the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service.&nbsp;

“U.S. exports have returned to trend growth experienced since the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and in the last 2 years the United States has witnessed record export values to China for soybeans, corn, beef, chicken meat, tree nuts, and sorghum. Cotton exports to China have also rebounded, propelled by strong demand. All these products are major contributors to the U.S. farm economy.”

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump plans to implement tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China on Saturday, potentially starting off a trade war that would likely lead to price increases on groceries and numerous other products.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“We need to protect Americans, and it is my duty as President to ensure the safety of all. I made a promise on my Campaign to stop the flood of illegal aliens and drugs from pouring across our Borders, and Americans overwhelmingly voted in favor of it.” –President Trump <a href="https://t.co/rJ9opLBJzr">pic.twitter.com/rJ9opLBJzr</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1885833185012896054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing Friday that Trump will place 25% tariffs on goods coming into the United States from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tariff on imports from China. Tariffs are paid by businesses bringing goods into the United States from other countries and they often pass on the increase in costs to consumers.“The tariffs are incoming tomorrow on Canada and the reason for that is because both Canada and Mexico have both allowed an unprecedented invasion of illegal fentanyl that is killing American citizens and also illegal immigrants into our country,” Leavitt said.Trump hasn’t yet decided if he will later implement tariffs on the European Union, made up of&nbsp;<a href="https://european-union.europa.eu/easy-read_en" target="_blank">27 countries</a>, according to Leavitt.“I won’t get ahead of the president on tariffs when it comes to the European Union,” she said.Trump said later Friday from the Oval Office that he wasn’t using the tariffs as a negotiating tool, but as a way to raise revenue for the federal government and bring attention to fentanyl flowing into the country.“We’re not looking for a concession. We’ll just see what happens,” Trump said.The new tariffs will be stacked on top of existing tariffs, he said.Trump said he planned to add additional tariffs at some point on computer chips and “things associated with chips,” oil and gas, steel, aluminum, copper, pharmaceuticals and “all forms of medicine.”Trump said he will likely implement the oil and gas tariffs on Feb. 18, but didn’t provide dates for the other tariffs.Trump brushed aside a question about how tariffs would impact prices, saying he was elected to reduce inflation. He said he wasn’t concerned about the stock market’s reaction on Friday afternoon to the impending tariffs.&nbsp;Many economists, including those at conservative think tanks, like the American Enterprise Institute, have warned against broadly applying tariffs in this way.Phil Gramm, former Republican chairman of the Senate Banking Committee and nonresident senior fellow at AEI, and Larry Summers, former Treasury Secretary during the Clinton administration,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/a-letter-to-trump-from-economists-tariffs-policy-protectionism-economy-9a063b69?mod=opinion_lead_pos5" target="_blank">wrote an op-ed published by the Wall Street Journal</a>&nbsp;on Thursday urging Trump not to implement tariffs.“Our united opposition to non-defense-related tariffs is based not on our faith in free trade but on evidence that tariffs are harmful to the economy,” they wrote.“Protective tariffs distort domestic production by inducing domestic producers to commit labor and capital to produce goods and services that could have been acquired more cheaply on the international market,” Gramm and Summers wrote. “That labor and capital are in turn diverted from producing goods and services that couldn’t be acquired more cheaply internationally. In the process, productivity, wages and economic growth fall while prices rise. Tariffs and the retaliation they bring also poison our economic and security alliances.”Leavitt said during the press briefing that only Trump could decide whether he would eventually lift or alter the tariffs, while brushing aside the potential impacts to the U.S. economy.&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service writes on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/chart-detail?chartId=58394" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;that Canada and Mexico “are the United States’ first and third largest suppliers of agricultural products (averaging $30.9 billion and $25.5 billion in 2017–21, respectively).“Mexico supplied the United States with 31 percent of imported horticultural products including fruit, vegetables, and alcoholic beverages. Canada is also a source of horticultural products, as well as grains, and meats.”The Office of the United States Trade Representative writes on its&nbsp;<a href="https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/china-mongolia-taiwan/peoples-republic-china" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;that the U.S. imported $562.9 billion worth of goods from China during 2022.U.S. agricultural exports to China, which could be impacted by retaliatory tariffs, totaled $36.4 billion during fiscal year 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fas.usda.gov/data/record-us-fy-2022-agricultural-exports-china" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;</a>the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service.&nbsp;“U.S. exports have returned to trend growth experienced since the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and in the last 2 years the United States has witnessed record export values to China for soybeans, corn, beef, chicken meat, tree nuts, and sorghum. Cotton exports to China have also rebounded, propelled by strong demand. All these products are major contributors to the U.S. farm economy.”

White House announces tariffs on products from Canada, Mexico, China

With assistance from regional and federal partners, District of Columbia response teams remain focused on recovery efforts in the Potomac River following the American Airlines jet and Blackhawk helicopter crash that left 67 dead.

With assistance from regional and federal partners, District of Columbia response teams remain focused on recovery efforts in the Potomac River following the American Airlines jet and Blackhawk helicopter crash that left 67 dead.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LIVE: Update on Plane Collision <a href="https://t.co/Kg9GQ30kl2">https://t.co/Kg9GQ30kl2</a>&mdash; Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorBowser/status/1885411634476208453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥 DC officials update recovery, investigation of deadly aircraft collision

United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Kyle J. Logan, age 25, of Safety Harbor, Florida was sentenced on January 30, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for possession of child pornography. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Logan to 96 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Logan will be placed on a 5-year term of supervised release. Logan was also ordered to pay special assessments of $5,000.00 under each of the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) and the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act (AVAA).

This investigation began in April 2023, when a minor victim living in West Virginia, contacted her local police to report she met an Air Force member, Logan, while playing Call of Duty online. The minor reported she had been in a relationship with Logan, which started after meeting him on the gaming platform and communicating with him on Discord. The minor reported being twelve years old at the time she began speaking to Logan. During the communication with Logan, their conversations turned sexual, and the minor disclosed Logan requested she send sexually explicit pictures of herself to Logan, which she did.&nbsp;

The United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) opened an investigation into Logan who was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, and ultimately interviewed Logan about his conduct with the minor. Logan admitted to knowing the minor was fifteen years old and requesting and receiving sexually explicit photos of the minor. AFOSI obtained search warrants for Logan’s Discord account and electronic devices. The searches revealed Logan possessed videos and images of the minor who initially reported Logan, as well as images and videos of a second victim. Ultimately, Logan was held accountable for possessing a total of 14 videos and 119 images of child pornography.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.

This case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

United States Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Kyle J. Logan, age 25, of Safety Harbor, Florida was sentenced on January 30, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for possession of child pornography. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Logan to 96 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Logan will be placed on a 5-year term of supervised release. Logan was also ordered to pay special assessments of $5,000.00 under each of the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) and the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act (AVAA).This investigation began in April 2023, when a minor victim living in West Virginia, contacted her local police to report she met an Air Force member, Logan, while playing Call of Duty online. The minor reported she had been in a relationship with Logan, which started after meeting him on the gaming platform and communicating with him on Discord. The minor reported being twelve years old at the time she began speaking to Logan. During the communication with Logan, their conversations turned sexual, and the minor disclosed Logan requested she send sexually explicit pictures of herself to Logan, which she did.&nbsp;The United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) opened an investigation into Logan who was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, and ultimately interviewed Logan about his conduct with the minor. Logan admitted to knowing the minor was fifteen years old and requesting and receiving sexually explicit photos of the minor. AFOSI obtained search warrants for Logan’s Discord account and electronic devices. The searches revealed Logan possessed videos and images of the minor who initially reported Logan, as well as images and videos of a second victim. Ultimately, Logan was held accountable for possessing a total of 14 videos and 119 images of child pornography.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

Air Force Member Sentenced to 96 Months for Possession of Child Pornography

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that three Wichita, Kansas women were sentenced for charges relating to sex trafficking a minor and transportation of a minor for prostitution.&nbsp;

Khalah Beard, age 24, of Wichita, was sentenced on January 30, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Beard to a total of 123 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Beard’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.

Joan Robinson, age 35, of Wichita, was sentenced on January 23, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for one count of transportation of a minor for prostitution. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Robinson to a total of 235 months’ imprisonment. After Robinson’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.

Alexas Davis, age 28, of Wichita, was sentenced on January 15, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Davis to a total of 108 months’ imprisonment. After Robinson’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.

The investigation began on November 16, 2022, when Minor Victim 1 (“MV1”) and Khalah Beard were arrested for shoplifting at a Walmart in Omaha. The responding officer began to suspect that Beard and MV1 were involved in sex trafficking and the officer reported the matter to the Omaha Police Department’s Special Victim’s Unit. MV1 was identified as a missing minor who was a ward of the state of Kansas. At the time of this incident, she was only 17 years old.

As the Omaha Police Department and agents with Homeland Security Investigations investigated this matter further, it was determined that on November 12, 2022, Robinson, Khalah Beard, Alexas Davis, and MV1 drove from Wichita to Omaha so that Beard, Davis, and MV1 could engage in prostitution at Robinson’s direction. They checked into adjoining hotel rooms in Omaha, which were booked by Robinson using her Priceline account. Photos of MV1 and Beard were placed on websites advertising that they were in Omaha and available for commercial sex acts. Davis kept track of Beard and MV1, and Davis would report to Robinson about when MV1 and Beard would have “dates.” Davis was charged with making sure Robinson was receiving her share of the proceeds from the acts of prostitution. A dispute among the group arose as to whether Robinson was receiving her full share of the proceeds. Robinson and Davis then returned to Wichita, abandoning MV1 and Beard in Omaha. When MV1 and Beard were contacted by police at Walmart on November 16, 2022, Robinson and Davis had already returned to Wichita.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justice.gov/psc" target="_blank">www.justice.gov/psc</a>.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Omaha Police Department, and the Wichita Police Department.

United States Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that three Wichita, Kansas women were sentenced for charges relating to sex trafficking a minor and transportation of a minor for prostitution.&nbsp;Khalah Beard, age 24, of Wichita, was sentenced on January 30, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Beard to a total of 123 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Beard’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.Joan Robinson, age 35, of Wichita, was sentenced on January 23, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for one count of transportation of a minor for prostitution. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Robinson to a total of 235 months’ imprisonment. After Robinson’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.Alexas Davis, age 28, of Wichita, was sentenced on January 15, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Davis to a total of 108 months’ imprisonment. After Robinson’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.The investigation began on November 16, 2022, when Minor Victim 1 (“MV1”) and Khalah Beard were arrested for shoplifting at a Walmart in Omaha. The responding officer began to suspect that Beard and MV1 were involved in sex trafficking and the officer reported the matter to the Omaha Police Department’s Special Victim’s Unit. MV1 was identified as a missing minor who was a ward of the state of Kansas. At the time of this incident, she was only 17 years old.As the Omaha Police Department and agents with Homeland Security Investigations investigated this matter further, it was determined that on November 12, 2022, Robinson, Khalah Beard, Alexas Davis, and MV1 drove from Wichita to Omaha so that Beard, Davis, and MV1 could engage in prostitution at Robinson’s direction. They checked into adjoining hotel rooms in Omaha, which were booked by Robinson using her Priceline account. Photos of MV1 and Beard were placed on websites advertising that they were in Omaha and available for commercial sex acts. Davis kept track of Beard and MV1, and Davis would report to Robinson about when MV1 and Beard would have “dates.” Davis was charged with making sure Robinson was receiving her share of the proceeds from the acts of prostitution. A dispute among the group arose as to whether Robinson was receiving her full share of the proceeds. Robinson and Davis then returned to Wichita, abandoning MV1 and Beard in Omaha. When MV1 and Beard were contacted by police at Walmart on November 16, 2022, Robinson and Davis had already returned to Wichita.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justice.gov/psc" target="_blank">www.justice.gov/psc</a>.This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Omaha Police Department, and the Wichita Police Department.

Three Wichita, Kansas Women Sentenced for Conspiracy to Engage in Sex Trafficking of a Minor & Transportation of a Minor for Prostitution

Office of Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese

(Lincoln, NE) Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese today encouraged Nebraskans to observe Unclaimed Property Day on February 1st&nbsp;by searching&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskalostcash.gov/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaLostCash.gov</a>&nbsp;to see if they have cash or other valuables waiting for them.&nbsp;Briese also said that Nebraskans who have lived in other states should check&nbsp;<a href="http://www.missingmoney.com/" target="_blank">www.MissingMoney.com</a>&nbsp;as it is a nationwide database The search only takes a moment and is totally free.

More than 33 million people in the United States has some sort of unclaimed property, which could be financial accounts or items of value in which the owner has not initiated any activity for several years. Common examples include unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, and uncashed checks. The State Treasurer’s Office is the custodian of unclaimed funds remitted by a business, government, or any other legal or commercial entity operating in the State of Nebraska.

In 2024 the Unclaimed Property Division returned $23,273,956 made up of 19,568 claims. This is a 36% increase over the amount paid in 2023.

“Unclaimed property is your money, and it should be returned to you. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it is free,” Briese said. “I’m proud that my office has returned a record amount of unclaimed property to Nebraskans&nbsp;and I want to see more people get what is rightfully theirs.”

To increase awareness of unclaimed property, the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) has declared February 1st&nbsp;as National Unclaimed Property Day.

About the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators

The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) is comprised of the unclaimed property programs of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as several foreign jurisdictions. The organization’s objective is to facilitate collaboration and otherwise support program administrators in reuniting all unclaimed assets with rightful owners. NAUPA is an affiliate of the non-partisan National Association of State Treasurers.

Office of Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese(Lincoln, NE) Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese today encouraged Nebraskans to observe Unclaimed Property Day on February 1st&nbsp;by searching&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskalostcash.gov/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaLostCash.gov</a>&nbsp;to see if they have cash or other valuables waiting for them.&nbsp;Briese also said that Nebraskans who have lived in other states should check&nbsp;<a href="http://www.missingmoney.com/" target="_blank">www.MissingMoney.com</a>&nbsp;as it is a nationwide database The search only takes a moment and is totally free.More than 33 million people in the United States has some sort of unclaimed property, which could be financial accounts or items of value in which the owner has not initiated any activity for several years. Common examples include unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, and uncashed checks. The State Treasurer’s Office is the custodian of unclaimed funds remitted by a business, government, or any other legal or commercial entity operating in the State of Nebraska.In 2024 the Unclaimed Property Division returned $23,273,956 made up of 19,568 claims. This is a 36% increase over the amount paid in 2023.“Unclaimed property is your money, and it should be returned to you. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it is free,” Briese said. “I’m proud that my office has returned a record amount of unclaimed property to Nebraskans&nbsp;and I want to see more people get what is rightfully theirs.”To increase awareness of unclaimed property, the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) has declared February 1st&nbsp;as National Unclaimed Property Day.About the National Association of Unclaimed Property AdministratorsThe National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) is comprised of the unclaimed property programs of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as several foreign jurisdictions. The organization’s objective is to facilitate collaboration and otherwise support program administrators in reuniting all unclaimed assets with rightful owners. NAUPA is an affiliate of the non-partisan National Association of State Treasurers.

Briese Encourages Nebraskans to Search for Unclaimed Property 

DAMASCUS —On Thursday, U.S. Forces conducted a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria targeting and killing Muhammad Salah al-Za'bir, a senior operative in the terrorist organization Hurras al-Din (HaD), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.


The airstrike is part of Centcom's ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond.



"CENTCOM will continue to hunt and kill or capture terrorists, and defend our homeland, against groups that plot to attack US and allied personnel," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734705079925.png" alt="File photo U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle&nbsp; -photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle&nbsp; -photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —On Thursday, U.S. Forces conducted a precision airstrike in Northwest Syria targeting and killing Muhammad Salah al-Za'bir, a senior operative in the terrorist organization Hurras al-Din (HaD), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.
The airstrike is part of Centcom's ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond.

"CENTCOM will continue to hunt and kill or capture terrorists, and defend our homeland, against groups that plot to attack US and allied personnel," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

U.S. airstrike kills senior operative of terror group, an Al-Qaeda affiliate

🎥NTSB briefing on Helicopter, Jet from Kansas Collision Investigation

Attorney General Mike Hilgers office

Attorney General Mike Hilgers announced today that Nebraska has joined the United States and 17 other States in settling allegations against pharmaceutical manufacturer QOL Medical, LLC, and Frederick E. Cooper, the company’s Chief Executive Officer. QOL sells therapies, including its principal product, Sucraid, for patients with rare diseases.

The settlement resolves allegations that QOL induced healthcare providers and a clinical laboratory to purchase Sucraid in violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, the federal False Claims Act, and state False Claims Acts. QOL and Cooper agreed to pay $47 million to resolve these claims. Of this amount, $8 million will be paid for false Medicaid claims. Nebraska’s share is $20,564.65.&nbsp;

QOL admitted that beginning in 2018, it distributed free breath test kits to healthcare providers and asked them to give these kits to their patients with common gastrointestinal symptoms. They claimed that the breath test could “rule in or rule out” a rare genetic condition for which Sucraid is the only FDA-approved therapy. However, the breath test did not specifically diagnose the genetic condition, and other disorders can cause a patient to test positive for that condition.

QOL then paid a clinical laboratory to analyze patients’ breath tests—at no cost to health care providers or patients. QOL and its sales team then used this data to find potential Sucraid patients. Between 2018 and 2022, QOL paid the laboratory for over 75,000 breath tests and gave the results to their sales force, who then made Sucraid sales calls to healthcare providers whose patients had positive breath test results.

This resulted in the submission of false claims to Medicaid and other government healthcare programs. QOL was then reimbursed by Medicaid and other government healthcare programs for the Sucraid.&nbsp;

This settlement results from a whistleblower lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. A team from the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units participated in the settlement negotiations on behalf of the states and included representatives from the Offices of the Attorneys General for the states of California, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Attorney General Mike Hilgers officeAttorney General Mike Hilgers announced today that Nebraska has joined the United States and 17 other States in settling allegations against pharmaceutical manufacturer QOL Medical, LLC, and Frederick E. Cooper, the company’s Chief Executive Officer. QOL sells therapies, including its principal product, Sucraid, for patients with rare diseases.The settlement resolves allegations that QOL induced healthcare providers and a clinical laboratory to purchase Sucraid in violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, the federal False Claims Act, and state False Claims Acts. QOL and Cooper agreed to pay $47 million to resolve these claims. Of this amount, $8 million will be paid for false Medicaid claims. Nebraska’s share is $20,564.65.&nbsp;QOL admitted that beginning in 2018, it distributed free breath test kits to healthcare providers and asked them to give these kits to their patients with common gastrointestinal symptoms. They claimed that the breath test could “rule in or rule out” a rare genetic condition for which Sucraid is the only FDA-approved therapy. However, the breath test did not specifically diagnose the genetic condition, and other disorders can cause a patient to test positive for that condition.QOL then paid a clinical laboratory to analyze patients’ breath tests—at no cost to health care providers or patients. QOL and its sales team then used this data to find potential Sucraid patients. Between 2018 and 2022, QOL paid the laboratory for over 75,000 breath tests and gave the results to their sales force, who then made Sucraid sales calls to healthcare providers whose patients had positive breath test results.This resulted in the submission of false claims to Medicaid and other government healthcare programs. QOL was then reimbursed by Medicaid and other government healthcare programs for the Sucraid.&nbsp;This settlement results from a whistleblower lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. A team from the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units participated in the settlement negotiations on behalf of the states and included representatives from the Offices of the Attorneys General for the states of California, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

 Nebraska Joins the United States and 17 States in Settlement against Pharmaceutical Manufacturer QOL Medical

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738259975431.png" alt="President Trump speaking about Wednesday's night accident (Screen shot from White House YouTube page)" />
 <figcaption>President Trump speaking about Wednesday's night accident (Screen shot from White House YouTube page)</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ShRYdYTtIx8?si=SzwYoEorbn_wbtEI" 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) President Trump addresses the Wednesday night aviation disaster that occurred near Reagan Washington National Airport

&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association&nbsp;

[MILFORD, NE]&nbsp;– Get ready to uncork a new adventure and explore Nebraska’s wine scene with the 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport, presented by the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA). This one-of-a-kind opportunity allows wine lovers to explore Nebraska’s finest wineries, discover local hidden gems and indulge in satisfying tastings. Sip your way through over 30 winery and tasting room locations and savor the best Nebraska wines.

We’re excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport in a fully digital format! Now, wine lovers can easily explore the passport through a simple, web-based app that works right on their smartphone browser. To register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://youraam.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c07df91167fecd0304e033611&amp;id=83bc1c982a&amp;e=677554bc30" target="_blank">https://www.nebraskawinepassport.com/</a>.

The 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport digital program kicks off on February 1st, featuring 22 Nebraska wineries and 10 tasting rooms across the state. Anyone can participate, and no purchase is required to collect “stamps” for your passport. To make the most of the experience, visitors are invited to enjoy a glass, try a tasting, or even pick up a bottle to take home!

The digital pass offers exclusive discounts and special deals from participating wineries and tasting rooms, along with point-based rewards you can redeem throughout the year. Prizes include the coveted Wine Bucks, which can be used for glass or bottle purchases at participating locations. Additional rewards feature exciting prize drawings, an official 2025 Passport T-shirt and a grand prize drawing for a wine basket that includes a wine tumbler, $100 in Nebraska Wine Bucks and two tickets to the 2026 TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival.

*Redeemed Wine Bucks can be picked up at any participating 2025 passport location.

*Prize drawings will take place by January 15, 2026.

*2025 Passport T-Shirt redemptions will be shipped in February 2026. (One per person)

The Nebraska Wine Passport program promotes Nebraska wines and encourages people to visit communities and interact with other businesses across the state.

The Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association is dedicated to leading the industry toward economic viability and sustainability and encouraging wine lovers to discover and embrace all that Nebraska wines have to offer.

For more information on the NWGGA 2025 Passport program, please visit

<a href="http://www.nebraskawinepassport.com/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaWinePassport.com</a>&nbsp;or call (402) 405-1291.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738255107164.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association&nbsp;[MILFORD, NE]&nbsp;– Get ready to uncork a new adventure and explore Nebraska’s wine scene with the 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport, presented by the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA). This one-of-a-kind opportunity allows wine lovers to explore Nebraska’s finest wineries, discover local hidden gems and indulge in satisfying tastings. Sip your way through over 30 winery and tasting room locations and savor the best Nebraska wines.We’re excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport in a fully digital format! Now, wine lovers can easily explore the passport through a simple, web-based app that works right on their smartphone browser. To register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://youraam.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c07df91167fecd0304e033611&amp;id=83bc1c982a&amp;e=677554bc30" target="_blank">https://www.nebraskawinepassport.com/</a>.The 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport digital program kicks off on February 1st, featuring 22 Nebraska wineries and 10 tasting rooms across the state. Anyone can participate, and no purchase is required to collect “stamps” for your passport. To make the most of the experience, visitors are invited to enjoy a glass, try a tasting, or even pick up a bottle to take home!The digital pass offers exclusive discounts and special deals from participating wineries and tasting rooms, along with point-based rewards you can redeem throughout the year. Prizes include the coveted Wine Bucks, which can be used for glass or bottle purchases at participating locations. Additional rewards feature exciting prize drawings, an official 2025 Passport T-shirt and a grand prize drawing for a wine basket that includes a wine tumbler, $100 in Nebraska Wine Bucks and two tickets to the 2026 TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival.Passport Guidelines:<ul>
 <li>Each participant is allowed one digital account.</li><li>Each participant must present their own passport at the participating location to collect points.</li><li>Points from participating locations are available through December 22, 2025.</li><li>Prizes can be redeemed until December 31, 2025.</li><li>Wine Bucks expire on December 31, 2025.</li>
 </ul>Passport Prizes:<ul>
 <li>500 Points = $10 Wine Bucks (while supplies last)</li><li>1,000 Points = Passport T-Shirt (1 shirt per pass, while supplies last)</li><li>1,000 Points = $20 Wine Bucks (while supplies last)</li><li>1,500 Points = Drawing Entry #1: Drawing for a set of 2 wine corks and $100.00 in Wine Bucks (3 winners)</li><li>3,000 Points = Drawing Entry #2: Drawing for Wine Basket, including a wine tumbler, $100 in Nebraska Wine Bucks, and two two-day tickets to TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival for 2026 (3 winners)</li>
 </ul>*Redeemed Wine Bucks can be picked up at any participating 2025 passport location.*Prize drawings will take place by January 15, 2026.*2025 Passport T-Shirt redemptions will be shipped in February 2026. (One per person)The Nebraska Wine Passport program promotes Nebraska wines and encourages people to visit communities and interact with other businesses across the state.The Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association is dedicated to leading the industry toward economic viability and sustainability and encouraging wine lovers to discover and embrace all that Nebraska wines have to offer.For more information on the NWGGA 2025 Passport program, please visit<a href="http://www.nebraskawinepassport.com/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaWinePassport.com</a>&nbsp;or call (402) 405-1291.

NWGGA Announces 2025 Nebraska Wine Passport Launch!

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned Howard Lutnick at the confirmation hearing on his nomination to be Secretary of Commerce.

During the hearing, Senator Fischer’s exchange with Lutnick focused on federal spectrum management and its critical role in national security, the impact of retaliatory tariffs on agriculture and manufacturing, the need to expand export markets, preserving critical broadband funding, and strategies to counter threats from China in technology markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On the Role Spectrum Plays in&nbsp;Protecting&nbsp;National Security:

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;If confirmed, you will lead a massive federal agency across 13 bureaus. And to start with, I want to highlight one that you've already heard of—the NTIA.&nbsp;It has critical influence over the U.S. economy and over our security, as well. Among its roles&nbsp;. . .&nbsp;NTIA coordinates spectrum management, ensuring that federal airwaves are being used most effectively. But, as spectrum becomes more scarce, critical federal operations, especially those essential for our national security, have been seen as obstacles. At the onset, I want to make it clear to you that DOD airwaves are not lying dormant and that proposals to clear them would jeopardize our national security.

We have constellations of DOD satellites that rely on spectrum. Our nuclear command and control relies on spectrum. Advanced fighter aircraft like F-35s rely on spectrum. And we are investing tens of billions of dollars in developing sixth-generation aircraft that will rely on spectrum. We have radar systems on our Navy ships tracking incoming missiles around the world. These allowed us to help defend Israel from over 300 missile and drone attacks last year. They rely on spectrum. I can go on and on, as my colleagues know, but this is all to say that I hope we can work together so that we can come up with a really strong strategy for federal spectrum management in the future.

On Protecting Nebraska’s Industries From Retaliatory Tariffs:

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;I'm from Nebraska, and Nebraska's agricultural and manufacturing industries rely on our strong export markets for our products. You and I talked about trade and about the need under this administration for trade to be front and center. We know that we didn’t see much of that happen in the previous administration. We also know, though sir, that other countries may try to retaliate against our agricultural and our manufacturing industries. So, if confirmed, will you work with your colleagues at other agencies to understand the impact of retaliatory tariffs on agriculture and manufacturing?

On Opportunities To Expand Export Markets:

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Thank you. Can you also talk a little bit about what opportunities you view that are out there so that we can expand certain export markets over the next four years under this administration?

Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;I think our farmers, ranchers, and fishermen are treated with disrespect.

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Always, the fish.

Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;Always, you have to include them. You know, how often do we eat seafood? Come on. So they are treated with disrespect around the world. They are our farmers, our ranchers, and our fishermen are treated with disrespect. The countries take advantage of American kindness, American gratitude, that we used to rebuild the world after the World Wars, and after the Korean War, and after the Vietnam War.

We need that disrespect to end. And I think tariffs are a way to create reciprocity, to be treated fairly, to be treated appropriately. And I think it will help our farmers, our ranchers, and our fishermen to flourish. And that’s what I expect this administration is going to drive. And that’s why I am honored to serve President Trump in his pursuit of that reciprocity and that fairness, and the end of the disrespect.

These countries have reliance on the American economy, and they need to start respecting us and respect us now.

On Understanding the Importance of&nbsp;the BEAD&nbsp;Broadband&nbsp;Program:

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Thank you. You heard about the BEAD funding from Senator Thune and other members of this committee as well. And I hope you will take that to heart and help our states get through some of those regulations that are out there. It has been an impediment to us.

On&nbsp;Bolstering American Competitiveness Against China:&nbsp;

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;I'd like to talk a little bit here in the last few seconds about technology and competitiveness. I think I have Senator Wicker’s time.

In previous hearings, this committee has discussed the United States’ AI capabilities and that we are in a dead heat with China. This week, we heard about DeepSeek, and I think it’s having us to examine kind of where we are right now with that.

If confirmed, given the Commerce Department’s breadth of influence on that issue, how will you address different threats that we see coming from the CCP within these information and technology markets?

Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;I take a very jaundiced view of China. I think they only care about themselves and seek to harm us. We need to protect ourselves, we need to drive our innovation forward, and we need to stop helping them.

Open platforms—Meta’s open platform, let DeepSeek rely on it. Nvidia’s chips, which they bought tons of and they found their ways around it, drive their DeepSeek model. It’s got to end.

If they are going to compete with us, let them compete, but stop using our tools to compete with us. So I’m going to be very strong on that. I am thrilled to oversee BIS and I’m thrilled to coordinate and empower BIS with tariffs that will improve the strength. When we say no, that answer’s got to be no.

Senator Fischer:&nbsp;I look forward to working with you, sir. Thank you.

Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;Thank you.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned Howard Lutnick at the confirmation hearing on his nomination to be Secretary of Commerce.During the hearing, Senator Fischer’s exchange with Lutnick focused on federal spectrum management and its critical role in national security, the impact of retaliatory tariffs on agriculture and manufacturing, the need to expand export markets, preserving critical broadband funding, and strategies to counter threats from China in technology markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the Role Spectrum Plays in&nbsp;Protecting&nbsp;National Security:Senator Fischer:&nbsp;If confirmed, you will lead a massive federal agency across 13 bureaus. And to start with, I want to highlight one that you've already heard of—the NTIA.&nbsp;It has critical influence over the U.S. economy and over our security, as well. Among its roles&nbsp;. . .&nbsp;NTIA coordinates spectrum management, ensuring that federal airwaves are being used most effectively. But, as spectrum becomes more scarce, critical federal operations, especially those essential for our national security, have been seen as obstacles. At the onset, I want to make it clear to you that DOD airwaves are not lying dormant and that proposals to clear them would jeopardize our national security.We have constellations of DOD satellites that rely on spectrum. Our nuclear command and control relies on spectrum. Advanced fighter aircraft like F-35s rely on spectrum. And we are investing tens of billions of dollars in developing sixth-generation aircraft that will rely on spectrum. We have radar systems on our Navy ships tracking incoming missiles around the world. These allowed us to help defend Israel from over 300 missile and drone attacks last year. They rely on spectrum. I can go on and on, as my colleagues know, but this is all to say that I hope we can work together so that we can come up with a really strong strategy for federal spectrum management in the future.On Protecting Nebraska’s Industries From Retaliatory Tariffs:Senator Fischer:&nbsp;I'm from Nebraska, and Nebraska's agricultural and manufacturing industries rely on our strong export markets for our products. You and I talked about trade and about the need under this administration for trade to be front and center. We know that we didn’t see much of that happen in the previous administration. We also know, though sir, that other countries may try to retaliate against our agricultural and our manufacturing industries. So, if confirmed, will you work with your colleagues at other agencies to understand the impact of retaliatory tariffs on agriculture and manufacturing?Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;I will.On Opportunities To Expand Export Markets:Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Thank you. Can you also talk a little bit about what opportunities you view that are out there so that we can expand certain export markets over the next four years under this administration?Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;I think our farmers, ranchers, and fishermen are treated with disrespect.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Always, the fish.Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;Always, you have to include them. You know, how often do we eat seafood? Come on. So they are treated with disrespect around the world. They are our farmers, our ranchers, and our fishermen are treated with disrespect. The countries take advantage of American kindness, American gratitude, that we used to rebuild the world after the World Wars, and after the Korean War, and after the Vietnam War.We need that disrespect to end. And I think tariffs are a way to create reciprocity, to be treated fairly, to be treated appropriately. And I think it will help our farmers, our ranchers, and our fishermen to flourish. And that’s what I expect this administration is going to drive. And that’s why I am honored to serve President Trump in his pursuit of that reciprocity and that fairness, and the end of the disrespect.These countries have reliance on the American economy, and they need to start respecting us and respect us now.On Understanding the Importance of&nbsp;the BEAD&nbsp;Broadband&nbsp;Program:Senator Fischer:&nbsp;Thank you. You heard about the BEAD funding from Senator Thune and other members of this committee as well. And I hope you will take that to heart and help our states get through some of those regulations that are out there. It has been an impediment to us.On&nbsp;Bolstering American Competitiveness Against China:&nbsp;Senator Fischer:&nbsp;I'd like to talk a little bit here in the last few seconds about technology and competitiveness. I think I have Senator Wicker’s time.In previous hearings, this committee has discussed the United States’ AI capabilities and that we are in a dead heat with China. This week, we heard about DeepSeek, and I think it’s having us to examine kind of where we are right now with that.If confirmed, given the Commerce Department’s breadth of influence on that issue, how will you address different threats that we see coming from the CCP within these information and technology markets?Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;I take a very jaundiced view of China. I think they only care about themselves and seek to harm us. We need to protect ourselves, we need to drive our innovation forward, and we need to stop helping them.Open platforms—Meta’s open platform, let DeepSeek rely on it. Nvidia’s chips, which they bought tons of and they found their ways around it, drive their DeepSeek model. It’s got to end.If they are going to compete with us, let them compete, but stop using our tools to compete with us. So I’m going to be very strong on that. I am thrilled to oversee BIS and I’m thrilled to coordinate and empower BIS with tariffs that will improve the strength. When we say no, that answer’s got to be no.Senator Fischer:&nbsp;I look forward to working with you, sir. Thank you.Howard Lutnick:&nbsp;Thank you.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fischer Questions Howard Lutnick at Confirmation Hearing

United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Edwin Okoronkwo, age 36, of Nigeria, was sentenced on January 29, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Okoronkwo to 75 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Okoronkwo will be placed on a 3-year term of supervised release and will be deported by immigration authorities. Okoronkwo was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $342,535.00 to seven victims as a result of his crimes.<a></a><a></a>

Edwin Okoronkwo, a citizen of Nigeria and a lawful permanent resident of the United States, and his spouse, Julie Okoronkwo, residing in Nebraska, used “catfishing” schemes to obtain money from victims via the Internet. In doing so, they convinced victims to send money using false online social media personas. In some instances, they claimed to be high-ranking members of the United States military on overseas missions. Through the “catfishing” schemes, victims from all over the country were tricked into sending money through the United States Postal Service (USPS) and other commercial carriers such as FedEx and UPS.

The Okoronkwos used victims’ personal identifying information (PII) obtained from identity theft victims to open bank accounts and other online financial services accounts, including peer-to-peer digital payments platforms (e.g., PayPal and Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App). They directed the victims of the “catfishing” schemes to send money from the victims’ personal peer-to-peer digital payment platform accounts to the peer-to-peer digital payment platforms opened by the Okoronkwos using the names and PII of the identity theft victims. From those false accounts, the Okoronkwos would then transfer money into their personal bank accounts, to bank accounts opened using the names of identity theft victims but controlled by the Okoronkwos, or to cryptocurrency exchange platforms. Some of the money would also then be passed along to recipients overseas to Nigeria via international wire transfers through remittance services.

Julie Okoronkwo contacted “catfishing” victims over the phone to further convince them of the legitimacy of their need for cash and obtained from her workplace – a hospital – victims’ means of identification, including their social security numbers and Nebraska driver’s license information. The means of identification were used by the Okoronkwos in furtherance of their “catfishing’ schemes.&nbsp;Julie Okoronkwo was previously sentenced to imprisonment for 25 months by U.S. District Judge Buescher on January 10, 2025. Judge Buescher stated at Edwin Okoronkwo’s sentencing hearing that the crimes were “truly a tragedy for the victims.”

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.

United States Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Edwin Okoronkwo, age 36, of Nigeria, was sentenced on January 29, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Okoronkwo to 75 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Okoronkwo will be placed on a 3-year term of supervised release and will be deported by immigration authorities. Okoronkwo was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $342,535.00 to seven victims as a result of his crimes.<a></a><a></a>Edwin Okoronkwo, a citizen of Nigeria and a lawful permanent resident of the United States, and his spouse, Julie Okoronkwo, residing in Nebraska, used “catfishing” schemes to obtain money from victims via the Internet. In doing so, they convinced victims to send money using false online social media personas. In some instances, they claimed to be high-ranking members of the United States military on overseas missions. Through the “catfishing” schemes, victims from all over the country were tricked into sending money through the United States Postal Service (USPS) and other commercial carriers such as FedEx and UPS.The Okoronkwos used victims’ personal identifying information (PII) obtained from identity theft victims to open bank accounts and other online financial services accounts, including peer-to-peer digital payments platforms (e.g., PayPal and Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App). They directed the victims of the “catfishing” schemes to send money from the victims’ personal peer-to-peer digital payment platform accounts to the peer-to-peer digital payment platforms opened by the Okoronkwos using the names and PII of the identity theft victims. From those false accounts, the Okoronkwos would then transfer money into their personal bank accounts, to bank accounts opened using the names of identity theft victims but controlled by the Okoronkwos, or to cryptocurrency exchange platforms. Some of the money would also then be passed along to recipients overseas to Nigeria via international wire transfers through remittance services.Julie Okoronkwo contacted “catfishing” victims over the phone to further convince them of the legitimacy of their need for cash and obtained from her workplace – a hospital – victims’ means of identification, including their social security numbers and Nebraska driver’s license information. The means of identification were used by the Okoronkwos in furtherance of their “catfishing’ schemes.&nbsp;Julie Okoronkwo was previously sentenced to imprisonment for 25 months by U.S. District Judge Buescher on January 10, 2025. Judge Buescher stated at Edwin Okoronkwo’s sentencing hearing that the crimes were “truly a tragedy for the victims.”This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.

 Nigerian Man, a Lawful Permanent Resident of the US, Sentenced to 75 Months & Ordered to Pay Over $342,000 in Restitution to Victims of Catfishing Scheme

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738207177867.png" alt="Image from Kennedy Center web camera at the time of the collision&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image from Kennedy Center web camera at the time of the collision&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fire &amp; EMS Chief John Donnelly: &quot;We are now at a point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. At this point we don&#39;t believe there are any survivors from this accident. We have recovered 27 people from the plane and one from the helicopter.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/422JqoEiVO">pic.twitter.com/422JqoEiVO</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884965008783667498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Fire Chief: No survivors after collision of jet from Kansas and Army Helicopter

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - Elected delegates from the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation (NEFB) took part in the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) annual policy session at the 106th AFBF Convention in San Antonio, TX. Just under 400 delegates from state Farm Bureaus gathered together to discuss several hundred federal policy resolutions which once passed, become the playbook of the policy work the organization focuses on for the year.&nbsp;

Federal policy passed at the NEFB Annual Meeting back in December of 2024 including substantial support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and needed reforms to USDA loan programs all became part of AFBF policy. &nbsp;New policy regarding the impact of tariffs on farm and ranch inputs was also adopted.&nbsp;

“Policy developed and passed at the Nebraska Farm Bureau annual meeting, again received significant support amongst the voting delegates. As a grassroots organization with a successful policy development process, we take great pride in our ability to help shape the policy of the largest farm and ranch organization in the country,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue.

Among the largest wins secured by NEFB was a significant amount of policy passed supporting the development of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry. As the nation’s second largest producer of ethanol, approved carbon sequestration pipeline infrastructure moving forward, and ample support amongst decision makers around the state, Nebraska has the opportunity to quickly become a leader in this emerging market.&nbsp;

“Outside of simply supporting the industry, AFBF voting delegates also approved policy to require SAF made in the U.S. only use U.S. produced feedstocks which will help ensure imported products, like used cooking oil from China, don’t qualify for U.S. taxpayer supported tax credits. Delegates also approved language supporting a farmer's ability to use a variety of conservation practices to produce SAF feedstocks, rather than simply a few as was the case with the rules surrounding the 40B tax credit funded through the Inflation Reduction Act,” said McHargue.&nbsp;

Delegates also supported Nebraska’s resolution focused on providing needed updates to USDA loan programs, including those used by young and beginning farmers and ranchers. The policy focused on providing more certainty to farm and ranch families who utilize loan programs by allowing for more permanency on funding regardless of changes to financial or family status. Language was also adopted to support a pre-approval process for USDA loans as this on-going issue greatly impacts beginning farmers and ranchers who try to purchase land at auction.&nbsp;

“The rules governing USDA loans need to fit within the real world and be flexible for the many challenges and changes farmers and ranchers regularly work through. USDA’s inability to grant new and beginning farmers pre-approval letters which document the amount of money the individual is approved to borrow, regularly limits their ability to purchase farm ground and usually ends up costing them more in lending fees. Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon was able to secure language in the House version of the new Farm Bill, and we look forward to continuing to work with him to address this significant challenge,” said McHargue.&nbsp;

Given President Trumps regular threat to utilize tariffs to address actions taken by other countries, the discussion of trade and tariffs also took center stage. Both AFBF and NEFB have significant policy in support of free and expanded trade. At the same time, we know President Trump has and continues to utilize tariffs as a way to address both economic and national security issues.&nbsp;

“After four years of relative inaction by the Biden administration on the subject of trade, NEFB stands ready to work to find new trading partners and hold our existing partners to the agreements negotiated and approved. The policy approved by our national delegates focuses on the need for diligence when tariffs affect agricultural and business inputs,” said McHargue.&nbsp;

With a new Congress, President Trump back at the White House, and new leadership across all federal agencies, NEFB is ready to get to work helping to ensure the economic futures of Nebraska’s farm and ranch families.&nbsp;

In addition to policy development, a series of Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) competitive events occurred during AFBF’s Annual Meeting. David Schuler, a Morrill County Farm Bureau member, competed as Nebraska’s representative in the YF&amp;R Discussion Meet. Grant Jones of Chase County Farm Bureau was recognized as Nebraska’s competitor for the Achievement in Agriculture award.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 56,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685966879006.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Fam BureauSAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - Elected delegates from the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation (NEFB) took part in the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) annual policy session at the 106th AFBF Convention in San Antonio, TX. Just under 400 delegates from state Farm Bureaus gathered together to discuss several hundred federal policy resolutions which once passed, become the playbook of the policy work the organization focuses on for the year.&nbsp;Federal policy passed at the NEFB Annual Meeting back in December of 2024 including substantial support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and needed reforms to USDA loan programs all became part of AFBF policy. &nbsp;New policy regarding the impact of tariffs on farm and ranch inputs was also adopted.&nbsp;“Policy developed and passed at the Nebraska Farm Bureau annual meeting, again received significant support amongst the voting delegates. As a grassroots organization with a successful policy development process, we take great pride in our ability to help shape the policy of the largest farm and ranch organization in the country,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue.Among the largest wins secured by NEFB was a significant amount of policy passed supporting the development of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry. As the nation’s second largest producer of ethanol, approved carbon sequestration pipeline infrastructure moving forward, and ample support amongst decision makers around the state, Nebraska has the opportunity to quickly become a leader in this emerging market.&nbsp;“Outside of simply supporting the industry, AFBF voting delegates also approved policy to require SAF made in the U.S. only use U.S. produced feedstocks which will help ensure imported products, like used cooking oil from China, don’t qualify for U.S. taxpayer supported tax credits. Delegates also approved language supporting a farmer's ability to use a variety of conservation practices to produce SAF feedstocks, rather than simply a few as was the case with the rules surrounding the 40B tax credit funded through the Inflation Reduction Act,” said McHargue.&nbsp;Delegates also supported Nebraska’s resolution focused on providing needed updates to USDA loan programs, including those used by young and beginning farmers and ranchers. The policy focused on providing more certainty to farm and ranch families who utilize loan programs by allowing for more permanency on funding regardless of changes to financial or family status. Language was also adopted to support a pre-approval process for USDA loans as this on-going issue greatly impacts beginning farmers and ranchers who try to purchase land at auction.&nbsp;“The rules governing USDA loans need to fit within the real world and be flexible for the many challenges and changes farmers and ranchers regularly work through. USDA’s inability to grant new and beginning farmers pre-approval letters which document the amount of money the individual is approved to borrow, regularly limits their ability to purchase farm ground and usually ends up costing them more in lending fees. Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon was able to secure language in the House version of the new Farm Bill, and we look forward to continuing to work with him to address this significant challenge,” said McHargue.&nbsp;Given President Trumps regular threat to utilize tariffs to address actions taken by other countries, the discussion of trade and tariffs also took center stage. Both AFBF and NEFB have significant policy in support of free and expanded trade. At the same time, we know President Trump has and continues to utilize tariffs as a way to address both economic and national security issues.&nbsp;“After four years of relative inaction by the Biden administration on the subject of trade, NEFB stands ready to work to find new trading partners and hold our existing partners to the agreements negotiated and approved. The policy approved by our national delegates focuses on the need for diligence when tariffs affect agricultural and business inputs,” said McHargue.&nbsp;With a new Congress, President Trump back at the White House, and new leadership across all federal agencies, NEFB is ready to get to work helping to ensure the economic futures of Nebraska’s farm and ranch families.&nbsp;In addition to policy development, a series of Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) competitive events occurred during AFBF’s Annual Meeting. David Schuler, a Morrill County Farm Bureau member, competed as Nebraska’s representative in the YF&amp;R Discussion Meet. Grant Jones of Chase County Farm Bureau was recognized as Nebraska’s competitor for the Achievement in Agriculture award.The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 56,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska’s economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nefb.org/" target="_blank">www.nefb.org</a>.

Nebraska Farm Bureau Plays Pivotal Role in Shaping National Agriculture Policy at the 106th American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.)&nbsp;released the following statement after the death of former Union Bank and Trust President and CEO Jay Dunlap:

“As a distinguished Nebraskan and servant leader, Jay Dunlap leaves behind a wonderful legacy. His drive and focus elevated UBT to new heights during his tenure as President and CEO. Bruce and I send our condolences to his wife, Shirley, and their family.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer&nbsp; WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.)&nbsp;released the following statement after the death of former Union Bank and Trust President and CEO Jay Dunlap:“As a distinguished Nebraskan and servant leader, Jay Dunlap leaves behind a wonderful legacy. His drive and focus elevated UBT to new heights during his tenure as President and CEO. Bruce and I send our condolences to his wife, Shirley, and their family.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fischer Statement on Passing of Jay Dunlap

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738163034654.png" alt="Kennedy spoke with Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, a member of the Senate Finance committee, moments before the hearing started-image courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kennedy spoke with Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, a member of the Senate Finance committee, moments before the hearing started-image courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH: Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. complete opening statement at Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing. <a href="https://t.co/FE0svVjixs">pic.twitter.com/FE0svVjixs</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884628422279721203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A protester interrupts Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. during his opening statement, as he addresses his views on vaccines. He says, &quot;I am not anti-vaccine.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/h5UliMeP1I">pic.twitter.com/h5UliMeP1I</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884624753744347323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: &quot;I don&#39;t want to take food away from anybody. If you like a McDonald&#39;s cheeseburger, a Diet Coke -- which my boss loves -- you should be able to get them.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/MC7cZUkkF1">pic.twitter.com/MC7cZUkkF1</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884626398230253810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Are you lying to Congress today when you say you are pro-vaccine or did you lie on all those podcasts?&quot; Watch exchange between Sen. <a href="https://twitter.com/RonWyden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonWyden</a> and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on vaccines. <a href="https://t.co/4jYWaWUuzL">pic.twitter.com/4jYWaWUuzL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884628588785254722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. &quot;I support the measles vaccine. I support the polio vaccine. I will do nothing as HHS secretary that makes it difficult or discourages people from taking either of those vaccines.&quot; Sen. <a href="https://twitter.com/RonWyden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonWyden</a>: &quot;Anybody who believes that ought to look at the measles… <a href="https://t.co/NqMxcr1ep0">pic.twitter.com/NqMxcr1ep0</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884631127950037297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorBennet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorBennet</a> to Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: &quot;Unlike other jobs were confirming around this place, this is a job where it is life and death...it&#39;s too important for the games that you&#39;re playing Mr. Kennedy.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/VQZlA26o2V">pic.twitter.com/VQZlA26o2V</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884639007289507891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: &quot;I agree with President Trump that every abortion is a tragedy.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/OPrRNEq1FP">pic.twitter.com/OPrRNEq1FP</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884643434792652848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorHassan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorHassan</a> asks Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: &quot;When was it that you decided to sell out the values you&#39;ve had your whole life in order to be given power by President Trump?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/nNBzzaB9Xv">pic.twitter.com/nNBzzaB9Xv</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884643823499788405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorHassan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorHassan</a> asks Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: &quot;When was it that you decided to sell out the values you&#39;ve had your whole life in order to be given power by President Trump?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/nNBzzaB9Xv">pic.twitter.com/nNBzzaB9Xv</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1884643823499788405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Highlights of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation hearing 

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/28/chief-justice-funkes-first-state-of-the-judiciary-lauds-probation-services-calls-for-more-funds/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;In his first annual address to lawmakers Tuesday, Nebraska’s new Supreme Court chief justice called for more funding for court areas such as language interpreters, cybersecurity, veterans’ courts and an “archaic” case document filing and management system.

Chief Justice<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/10/25/justice-jeffrey-funke-chosen-as-nebraskas-next-chief-justice-after-justice-heavican-retires/">&nbsp;Jeffrey Funke,</a>&nbsp;in his “State of the Judiciary” address, praised several parts of the state court system, saying its probation services for adults and juveniles are considered national models.

Yet, he said, that Nebraska continues to have some of the nation’s most crowded prisons and, despite a drop in the state’s crime rate, rates of incarceration have increased.&nbsp;

Successes of the Judicial Branch are impaired, Funke said, by funding holes in integral areas including the “JUSTICE” system that manages cases for judges, attorneys, staff and the public.

Reflecting back, he noted that the system was implemented in 1994 — “the same year Ben Nelson was Nebraska’s governor and the Cornhuskers won a national championship in football.”

Said Funke: “We can no longer operate in the past.”

The Nebraska City native, elevated to the post in October, called for financial support from the Legislature to augment a $1.7 million grant aimed at creating “JUSTICE 2.0.” He said modernization will enable judges, attorneys, court staff and the public to navigate cases more efficiently.

We have done what you have asked. It is essential that the Judicial Branch receive adequate funding for the next biennium to sustain the progress we have made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738170410762.jpeg" alt="Chief Justice Jeffrey Funke greets state lawmakers after his first annual State of the Judiciary address. Jan. 28, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Chief Justice Jeffrey Funke greets state lawmakers after his first annual State of the Judiciary address. Jan. 28, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/28/chief-justice-funkes-first-state-of-the-judiciary-lauds-probation-services-calls-for-more-funds/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;In his first annual address to lawmakers Tuesday, Nebraska’s new Supreme Court chief justice called for more funding for court areas such as language interpreters, cybersecurity, veterans’ courts and an “archaic” case document filing and management system.Chief Justice<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/10/25/justice-jeffrey-funke-chosen-as-nebraskas-next-chief-justice-after-justice-heavican-retires/">&nbsp;Jeffrey Funke,</a>&nbsp;in his “State of the Judiciary” address, praised several parts of the state court system, saying its probation services for adults and juveniles are considered national models.Yet, he said, that Nebraska continues to have some of the nation’s most crowded prisons and, despite a drop in the state’s crime rate, rates of incarceration have increased.&nbsp;Successes of the Judicial Branch are impaired, Funke said, by funding holes in integral areas including the “JUSTICE” system that manages cases for judges, attorneys, staff and the public.Reflecting back, he noted that the system was implemented in 1994 — “the same year Ben Nelson was Nebraska’s governor and the Cornhuskers won a national championship in football.”Said Funke: “We can no longer operate in the past.”<h2>Behavioral health, a priority</h2>The Nebraska City native, elevated to the post in October, called for financial support from the Legislature to augment a $1.7 million grant aimed at creating “JUSTICE 2.0.” He said modernization will enable judges, attorneys, court staff and the public to navigate cases more efficiently.We have done what you have asked. It is essential that the Judicial Branch receive adequate funding for the next biennium to sustain the progress we have made.– Chief Justice Jeffrey FunkeAnother concern underscored in the half-hour talk to the public and state senators in the Legislative Chambers: insufficient behavioral health services — an area Funke said must be prioritized.While largely outside the direct purview of the judicial system, mental health challenges lead many Nebraskans into crime and abuse and neglect of children, Funke said.“The lack of treatment options means that our citizens are not getting the care they need, which reduces their chances of stability and recovery,” he said.Last year, more than 6,000 people participated in financial assistance programs for behavioral health services under probation services. Still, Funke said, health organizations report a significant shortage of available providers. He said reimbursement rates are not keeping pace with the costs of delivering services.As a result, options are limited for judges at sentencing times and for officials leading probation services, problem-solving courts and post-release supervision.Another top need Funke addressed is salaries so the Judicial Branch can retain and compete for talent. He said the high court sought funds from the Legislature in 2023 to raise pay for interpreters, to add an adult drug court for Platte County, a veterans’ treatment court in Sarpy County and three additional IT staff members for cybersecurity and cloud-based IT management.While the Legislature supported those efforts by increasing personnel spending limits, it did not direct any new funds. Funke said existing dollars soon will be exhausted.“We have done what you have asked,” said Funke, joined in the chambers by fellow members of the State Supreme Court. “It is essential that the Judicial Branch receive adequate funding for the next biennium to sustain the progress we have made.”<h2>Strong diversion, reentry efforts</h2>Organizations including the civil rights organization, ACLU Nebraska, weighed in. Legal director Rose Godinez said she heard from Funke a “keen understanding of the importance of strengthening diversion and reentry programs to achieve better outcomes for us all.”“His acknowledgment of Nebraska’s costly overcrowded prisons, his support for growing problem-solving courts, and his commitment to access to justice — including language access — were all on target,” Godinez said. “We look forward to continued partnerships with the judicial branch to help advance our shared goals.”Giving the annual address may be new to Funke, appointed by Gov. Jim Pillen to replace former Chief Justice Mike Heavican of Lincoln, who retired in October after having been the<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/pdf/bluebook/bluebook_2022.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;second-longest</a>&nbsp;serving Chief Justice, at 18 years.&nbsp;But Funke, appointed as an associate justice in 2016, said he is familiar with the “excellent work” of judicial branch staff to help ensure that Nebraskans have a forum to resolve disputes.He said the core functions of courts have been expanded over the years, with new and innovative ways to administer justice, sometimes increasing public safety and saving taxpayer dollars.“More work is to be done.”&nbsp;<h2>Highlights</h2>Other highlights of Funke’s speech:In the area of Adult Probation, the Chief Justice noted 2014 and 2021 criminal justice reform efforts aimed at reducing high costs of incarceration and diverting less serious felons from prison to probation.Today, he said, adult probation officers supervise more than 14,000 people across Nebraska, and the recidivism rate for those successfully completing probation “is an exceptional 19%.” That’s the percentage that relapsed into crime within three years of release.In June, the Supreme Court approved the first-ever strategic plan for adult probation services. Funke said a goal is to ensure that Nebraska probation remains a “national model” of sentencing alternatives for courts.The average cost to imprison a person in Nebraska Is $41,000 per year, he said, compared to $3,500 per person annually for probation.Post-release supervision&nbsp;came about after the 2014 justice reforms showed that Nebraska’s felony sentencing system failed to provide adequate supervision upon an individual’s release from prison. On a daily average, 1,300 individuals are supervised under the program and must comply with court-ordered conditions including maintaining a job, participating in behavioral health services and keeping away from crime.Less than 10% of those under post-release supervision returned to prison due to a probation revocation — a sign, Funke said, that the program has prevented crime.Nebraska’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/10/04/problem-solving-courts-broadly-popular-but-how-to-expand-them-remains-unclear/">problem-solving courts</a>&nbsp;provide highly supervised treatment for military veterans and those battling substance abuse and mental illness. Participation is at nearly 800 people, and Funke has called for additional resources to serve more Nebraskans.He said the recidivism rate for those who successfully graduate from a problem-solving court is 24%. Today, adult drug courts are in every judicial district. Trial court judges have implemented four veterans treatment courts, two reentry courts, one young adult court, a mental health court and a DUI court. Juvenile court judges have implemented two family treatment courts and a juvenile drug court. Nebraska judges volunteer to preside over the labor-intensive courts.Juvenile Probation,&nbsp;on any given day, serves nearly 2,700 youths. Funke described the program as a “nationwide leader” with an all-time low of 17% of the youths returning to crime after a year of completing the program.However, he said, juveniles who commit violent crime remain a priority focus.&nbsp;“Though this population comprises only 3% of the total juveniles on probation, it requires our full attention,” he said, noting a new effort with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to better transition young offenders back into communities.&nbsp;As part of an effort to improve “access to justice,”&nbsp;Nebraska developed a pilot project in Douglas County to help self-represented litigants file and process documents in their cases. The goal, Funke said, is to expand statewide, especially in rural areas and for low-income court users.He said the state also began collaborating with foreign consulates to produce videos in languages beyond English to detail court processes and the role of interpreters.The court system expanded services for those with hearing loss, and nearly every courtroom in the state is equipped with infrared assistive listening devices at no expense to county governments.“Regarding remote access, our trial court judges have made significant strides in using technology to enable communication, document sharing and teamwork between courthouses,” Funke said.&nbsp;He said technology advancements have opened virtual courtrooms and allowed remote hearings that reduce travel and enhance scheduling flexibility.