UNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Lincoln, Neb. —&nbsp;Conservation photographer Michael Forsberg will talk about his latest project "Into Whooperland" at a Nov. 18 seminar. He is the featured speaker for the 3:30 p.m. talk sponsored by the&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ62" target="_blank">Center for Grassland Studies</a>&nbsp;at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The talk occurs in the Hardin Hall auditorium on UNL’s East Campus and is free and open to the public.

A book signing and chance to meet the author will follow. The talk also will be livestreamed over Zoom at:&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ6E" target="_blank">https://unl.zoom.us/j/91274348434</a>Forsberg’s book, "Into Whooperland – A photographer’s journey with whooping cranes," was published in October. It culminates Forsberg’s multi-year effort to document the lives of North America’s rarest crane species.

Photos and essays depict the rare cranes’ nesting, wintering and 2,500-mile annual migration from northern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. The migration route crosses Nebraska, but images were taken all along the migration route.

Forsberg is an internationally known photographer who first established his reputation in Nebraska photographing sandhill cranes and Great Plains wildlife. Now he’s a research assistant professor and conservation photographer-in-residence in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He’s also co-founder of the Platte Basin Timelapse, a project housed in the school aimed at documenting the Platte River and its associated environs in Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming. He undertook the project independently from the university, with some private donations and other funding sources.

"Into Whooperland" is available for purchase at&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ6U" target="_blank">www.michaelforsberg.com/merchandise/intowhooperland</a>An accompanying website and podcast can be accessed at &nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ7m" target="_blank">www.WhoopingCraneChronicles.com</a>&nbsp;.

In 2019 Forsberg embarked on a plan to document whooping cranes for a book. He secured permits from multiple agencies in the United States and Canada, but his logistics and fieldwork were slowed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which limited travel.

A cornerstone of Forsberg’s project was to follow the cranes’ migratory flyway through the heart of the Great Plains – starting along the Texas Gulf Coast where they winter and flying by small plane north to Wood Buffalo National Park in northwestern Canada.

"Typically, stories on whooping cranes primarily focus on either Texas or Wood Buffalo," he said. "I wanted to connect the dots of their migration up the middle and emulate their journeys as well as focusing on the landscape below." He worked closely with the Whooping Crane Telemetry Partnership to accomplish this goal.

In the late 1940s, there were just 16 whooping cranes left in the world. Intensive conservation work has brought the species (Grus americana) to a population of about 850, inclusive of wild, experimental and captive populations. The cranes’ comeback is a guarded success, achieved through multistate efforts of hundreds if not thousands of conservationists, biologists, environmental activists, policymakers and bird enthusiasts.&nbsp; They are a symbol of the conservation movement and offer hope for other species of concern.

While most Nebraskans are familiar with sandhill cranes, few have seen or know much about whooping cranes, which also migrate through. Whooping cranes are 5-feet tall and bright white with black wingtips spanning 8 feet. Whooping cranes are the tallest bird in North America.

Whooping cranes breed in Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park and nearby locations. It is Canada’s largest national park, straddling the provincial borders between Alberta and Northwest Territories. It’s a 34-hour drive to Wood Buffalo, some 2,154 miles from Forsberg’s home base in Lincoln.

Forsberg made more than 30 trips to photograph the birds with "camera in hand," accompanied by field biologists, and at captive breeding facilities. Forsberg also spent time alone in blinds, often for days at a time. "I was fortunate to be able to intimately document their daily lives and different aspects of their natural history perhaps in ways people haven’t seen before," he said.

The project culminated in an 8-day stay in a blind 4-feet x 8-feet x 4-feet observing and photographing a pair of cranes on a nest in Canada, ending when they hatched chicks in Summer 2023.Forsberg estimates he made more than 100,000 still photos, captured 50 hours of video, and spent roughly 200 days in the field in the U.S. and Canada with crane biologists, habitat managers, private landholders, tribal members, and other self-described "craniacs."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

UNL&nbsp;Institute of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesLincoln, Neb. —&nbsp;Conservation photographer Michael Forsberg will talk about his latest project "Into Whooperland" at a Nov. 18 seminar. He is the featured speaker for the 3:30 p.m. talk sponsored by the&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ62" target="_blank">Center for Grassland Studies</a>&nbsp;at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The talk occurs in the Hardin Hall auditorium on UNL’s East Campus and is free and open to the public. A book signing and chance to meet the author will follow. The talk also will be livestreamed over Zoom at:&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ6E" target="_blank">https://unl.zoom.us/j/91274348434</a>Forsberg’s book, "Into Whooperland – A photographer’s journey with whooping cranes," was published in October. It culminates Forsberg’s multi-year effort to document the lives of North America’s rarest crane species.Photos and essays depict the rare cranes’ nesting, wintering and 2,500-mile annual migration from northern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. The migration route crosses Nebraska, but images were taken all along the migration route.Forsberg is an internationally known photographer who first established his reputation in Nebraska photographing sandhill cranes and Great Plains wildlife. Now he’s a research assistant professor and conservation photographer-in-residence in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He’s also co-founder of the Platte Basin Timelapse, a project housed in the school aimed at documenting the Platte River and its associated environs in Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming. He undertook the project independently from the university, with some private donations and other funding sources."Into Whooperland" is available for purchase at&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ6U" target="_blank">www.michaelforsberg.com/merchandise/intowhooperland</a>An accompanying website and podcast can be accessed at &nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=3DZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy.0eFr13JziN~xk_Y0X6HFI3OZ7m" target="_blank">www.WhoopingCraneChronicles.com</a>&nbsp;.In 2019 Forsberg embarked on a plan to document whooping cranes for a book. He secured permits from multiple agencies in the United States and Canada, but his logistics and fieldwork were slowed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which limited travel.A cornerstone of Forsberg’s project was to follow the cranes’ migratory flyway through the heart of the Great Plains – starting along the Texas Gulf Coast where they winter and flying by small plane north to Wood Buffalo National Park in northwestern Canada."Typically, stories on whooping cranes primarily focus on either Texas or Wood Buffalo," he said. "I wanted to connect the dots of their migration up the middle and emulate their journeys as well as focusing on the landscape below." He worked closely with the Whooping Crane Telemetry Partnership to accomplish this goal.In the late 1940s, there were just 16 whooping cranes left in the world. Intensive conservation work has brought the species (Grus americana) to a population of about 850, inclusive of wild, experimental and captive populations. The cranes’ comeback is a guarded success, achieved through multistate efforts of hundreds if not thousands of conservationists, biologists, environmental activists, policymakers and bird enthusiasts.&nbsp; They are a symbol of the conservation movement and offer hope for other species of concern.While most Nebraskans are familiar with sandhill cranes, few have seen or know much about whooping cranes, which also migrate through. Whooping cranes are 5-feet tall and bright white with black wingtips spanning 8 feet. Whooping cranes are the tallest bird in North America.Whooping cranes breed in Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park and nearby locations. It is Canada’s largest national park, straddling the provincial borders between Alberta and Northwest Territories. It’s a 34-hour drive to Wood Buffalo, some 2,154 miles from Forsberg’s home base in Lincoln.Forsberg made more than 30 trips to photograph the birds with "camera in hand," accompanied by field biologists, and at captive breeding facilities. Forsberg also spent time alone in blinds, often for days at a time. "I was fortunate to be able to intimately document their daily lives and different aspects of their natural history perhaps in ways people haven’t seen before," he said.The project culminated in an 8-day stay in a blind 4-feet x 8-feet x 4-feet observing and photographing a pair of cranes on a nest in Canada, ending when they hatched chicks in Summer 2023.Forsberg estimates he made more than 100,000 still photos, captured 50 hours of video, and spent roughly 200 days in the field in the U.S. and Canada with crane biologists, habitat managers, private landholders, tribal members, and other self-described "craniacs."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Photographer Forsberg at Grasslands’ Lecture Nov. 18

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/university-of-nebraska-launches-ai-focused-task-force-seeks-community-input/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN&nbsp;— The University of Nebraska system has launched a systemwide artificial intelligence task force and seeks input to enhance and understand AI use.

NU President Jeffrey Gold&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/nyoq8k/jffbq5l" target="_blank">announced the AI task force</a>&nbsp;Wednesday, stating that harnessing the power and potential of AI is an important step on what he has coined “our journey to extraordinary.”

“We are living in an exciting time in which recent advancements in artificial intelligence have created unique opportunities for innovation across nearly every sector,” Gold said in an NU-wide email. “As AI rapidly transforms our world, it is crucial that the University of Nebraska positions itself as a leader in this new era.”

The announcement includes the formation of a 15-member task force, with members from each of NU’s main campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney. Gold said the task force’s goal is to understand opportunities for campuses to collaborate and identify shared strengths.

The task force will also include three members from NU’s central office: David Jackson, interim executive vice president and provost, will chair the group; Laura Gonnerman, associate general counsel, will be the “observer”; and Bret Blackman, vice president for information technology and chief information officer, will also be part of the task force.

The campus-specific members are as follows.

University of Nebraska at Kearney:

University of Nebraska Medical Center:

Gold is also inviting a systemwide “<a href="https://ssp.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8dzpUOwY8KhMJAG" target="_blank">AI inventory survey</a>,” which was designed by the AI task force members to further enhance their understanding of how AI is already or could be further integrated across research, education and engagement efforts within NU.

“This survey will help us assess the breadth and depth of current AI-related efforts, identify challenges and explore future opportunities, ensuring that the University remains at the forefront of AI research, education, and community engagement,” Gold wrote.

The NU Board of Regents in August approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/largest-venture-in-nu-history-project-health-gets-green-light-from-board-of-regents/">bachelor’s degree in AI</a>&nbsp;at UNO beginning in January, which is believed to be the first of its kind in Nebraska.

Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/university-of-nebraska-launches-ai-focused-task-force-seeks-community-input/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN&nbsp;— The University of Nebraska system has launched a systemwide artificial intelligence task force and seeks input to enhance and understand AI use.NU President Jeffrey Gold&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/nyoq8k/jffbq5l" target="_blank">announced the AI task force</a>&nbsp;Wednesday, stating that harnessing the power and potential of AI is an important step on what he has coined “our journey to extraordinary.”“We are living in an exciting time in which recent advancements in artificial intelligence have created unique opportunities for innovation across nearly every sector,” Gold said in an NU-wide email. “As AI rapidly transforms our world, it is crucial that the University of Nebraska positions itself as a leader in this new era.”The announcement includes the formation of a 15-member task force, with members from each of NU’s main campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney. Gold said the task force’s goal is to understand opportunities for campuses to collaborate and identify shared strengths.The task force will also include three members from NU’s central office: David Jackson, interim executive vice president and provost, will chair the group; Laura Gonnerman, associate general counsel, will be the “observer”; and Bret Blackman, vice president for information technology and chief information officer, will also be part of the task force.The campus-specific members are as follows.University of Nebraska-Lincoln:<ul>
 <li>Mohammad Rashedul Hasan, assistant professor of big data and artificial intelligence.</li><li>Scout Calvert, chair of research partnerships in University Libraries.</li><li>Sydney Brown, assistant director of the Center for Transformative Teaching.</li><li>Santosh Pitla, professor in Biological Systems Engineering.</li>
 </ul>University of Nebraska at Omaha:<ul>
 <li>Cassie Mallette, program manager for UNO’s AI Learning Lab and senior instructional designer.</li><li>Robin Gandhi, associate dean for research in the College of Information Science and Technology.</li>
 </ul>University of Nebraska at Kearney:<ul>
 <li>Megan Adkins, associate dean for engagement and retention.</li><li>David Arredondo, collection services librarian.</li><li>Timothy Bartling, director of academic technology.</li>
 </ul>University of Nebraska Medical Center:<ul>
 <li>Emily Glenn, dean of the Leon S. McGoogan Health Sciences Library.</li><li>Dr. Howard Fox, professor in the Department of Neurological Sciences.</li><li>Dr. Chad Vokoun, division chief for hospital medicine in the Department of Internal Medicine.</li>
 </ul>Gold is also inviting a systemwide “<a href="https://ssp.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8dzpUOwY8KhMJAG" target="_blank">AI inventory survey</a>,” which was designed by the AI task force members to further enhance their understanding of how AI is already or could be further integrated across research, education and engagement efforts within NU.“This survey will help us assess the breadth and depth of current AI-related efforts, identify challenges and explore future opportunities, ensuring that the University remains at the forefront of AI research, education, and community engagement,” Gold wrote.The NU Board of Regents in August approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/largest-venture-in-nu-history-project-health-gets-green-light-from-board-of-regents/">bachelor’s degree in AI</a>&nbsp;at UNO beginning in January, which is believed to be the first of its kind in Nebraska.

University of Nebraska launches AI-focused task force, seeks community input

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/07/lawmakers-probe-special-education-option-enrollment-among-nebraska-school-districts/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Lawmakers are exploring how to help more students who require special education take part in a Nebraska program that allows families the option to enroll in a different public school district.

State Sens. Dave Murman of Glenvil and Danielle Conrad of Lincoln each brought interim studies to probe the issue and better support students who need special education services and might be on individualized education plans, or IEPs. The study came Thursday as part of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=56514" target="_blank">Legislative Resolutions 320</a>&nbsp;(from Conrad) and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=57067" target="_blank">425</a>&nbsp;(from Murman).

Murman described the study as a way to ensure every child gets their “fair chance” as a focus of the Education Committee, which Murman chairs.&nbsp;

The study also came after a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Agencies/Education__Department_of/846_20240830-102307.pdf" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Education report</a>&nbsp;in August that about 86% of students who applied for “option enrollment” were accepted into the district of their choice. Among the 14% denied, a portion were students on IEPs.

“The goal is that there wouldn’t be any discrimination because of disabilities,” Murman said after the hearing.

Conrad led 2023 legislation involving option enrollment, and the Education Committee, of which she is a member, amended the legislation to include the annual report.

Elizabeth Eynon-Kokrda, general counsel and co-founder of Education Rights Counsel, a nonprofit that uplifts Nebraska children, particularly those with disabilities, said based on her review of the inaugural report, students with IEPs are being denied largely across the board.

“From this data, not a single child with a disability was accepted,” Eynon-Kokrda said. “Sometimes, it’s only the children with disabilities who weren’t accepted.”

Tim Royers, president of the Nebraska State Education Association, said that might not be fully accurate, as the report doesn’t indicate how many students with IEPs were accepted. He said he had seen internal data indicating that some students on IEPs were accepted.

Eynon-Kokrda said Nebraska law does permit districts to turn down such students’ transfer requests. She said lawmakers have given school districts the benefit of the doubt, to do individualized assessments and determine whether they can support the students and not hide behind claiming they lack “capacity.”

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who is term-limited, noted that each school district gets additional funding if they have positive net option enrollment, to the tune of almost $11,000 per student. Linehan cautioned that districts can deny applications for any reason under current law.

She and others noted that the Legislature doubled special education reimbursements to 80% last year while creating “foundation aid” for each public school district, roughly $1,500 for each public school student. Conversations continue about reforming the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/07/existing-equalization-aid-to-schools-could-be-main-nebraska-property-tax-relief-vehicle/">main funding formula</a>.

John Skretta, a lobbyist for Lincoln Public Schools, said his district largely accepts all students for option enrollment, except those who are precluded because they previously used it. He suggested possibly increasing or adding a growth factor to “foundation aid.”

Royers said while special education funding has returned, there is increased demand, too.

‘We can’t stay with the status quo’

When lawmakers required a reason be given for denial starting last year, Eynon-Kokrda said some still used capacity as a reason, which she defined as being “in the eyes of the beholder” and something could change “overnight,” based on district-by-district definitions. She suggested “disability blind legislation” that removes from each option enrollment application the question: Does your student have an IEP?

“We can’t stay with the status quo, and I would urge you to introduce legislation that works to ensure equity for all children,” she said.

Angela Gleason, an Omaha mother, said she has three children between the ages of 7 and 12, and her oldest, who has disabilities, hasn’t been accepted for option enrollment but her other two children have.

“Little did we know that by simply having a disability and an individualized education program, we would be red flagging him to any district that we applied to if he was not the sort of student they would choose to admit for option enrollment,” Gleason testified of her oldest child.

Gleason said it is disheartening to be denied year after year and to have her oldest son feel he is repeatedly being discriminated against. She said schools should either accept all or take no option enrollment students.

Royers said a family that doesn’t answer that question but later reveals their child has an IEP must also be counted as a denial. He offered to help address concerns next year about school districts denying transfers of students with IEPs, without a stated reason.

Conrad cautioned that there are real capacity concerns, such as class size and current teacher shortages, particularly those with special education endorsements.

Carrie George, a special education teacher from the Papillion-La Vista area, echoed those concerns and said budget cuts have increased caseloads, leading to teacher burnout. She urged lawmakers to consult with special education departments and educators statewide to address current flaws before implementing new requirements.

For example, Royers said, there were 286 unfilled special education positions in the state last year. Just a decade ago, that was 1,000% less, at 29 unfilled positions.

“Teachers are deeply committed to student outcomes,” George said. “The greatest injustice would be for students to fail to reach their potential due to the limitations of well-intentioned policies.”

Murman said one of his goals is that the data indicate a similar acceptance rate for students with IEPs compared to students without. He told the Nebraska Examiner that next year might include a renewed focus on special education, possibly targeting aid for high-cost services.

Conrad said the hearing highlighted a need to increase resources and to address workforce shortages, which she described as a non-political issue.

“This is an issue that every single member of the Education Committee cares really deeply about,” Conrad said. “I think these are the kinds of issues that I’m hopeful will be really front and center in terms of problem solving in the 2025 legislative session.”

Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/07/lawmakers-probe-special-education-option-enrollment-among-nebraska-school-districts/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Lawmakers are exploring how to help more students who require special education take part in a Nebraska program that allows families the option to enroll in a different public school district.State Sens. Dave Murman of Glenvil and Danielle Conrad of Lincoln each brought interim studies to probe the issue and better support students who need special education services and might be on individualized education plans, or IEPs. The study came Thursday as part of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=56514" target="_blank">Legislative Resolutions 320</a>&nbsp;(from Conrad) and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=57067" target="_blank">425</a>&nbsp;(from Murman).Murman described the study as a way to ensure every child gets their “fair chance” as a focus of the Education Committee, which Murman chairs.&nbsp;The study also came after a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Agencies/Education__Department_of/846_20240830-102307.pdf" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Education report</a>&nbsp;in August that about 86% of students who applied for “option enrollment” were accepted into the district of their choice. Among the 14% denied, a portion were students on IEPs.“The goal is that there wouldn’t be any discrimination because of disabilities,” Murman said after the hearing.Conrad led 2023 legislation involving option enrollment, and the Education Committee, of which she is a member, amended the legislation to include the annual report.<h2>Denial rates for students with IEPs</h2>Elizabeth Eynon-Kokrda, general counsel and co-founder of Education Rights Counsel, a nonprofit that uplifts Nebraska children, particularly those with disabilities, said based on her review of the inaugural report, students with IEPs are being denied largely across the board.“From this data, not a single child with a disability was accepted,” Eynon-Kokrda said. “Sometimes, it’s only the children with disabilities who weren’t accepted.”Tim Royers, president of the Nebraska State Education Association, said that might not be fully accurate, as the report doesn’t indicate how many students with IEPs were accepted. He said he had seen internal data indicating that some students on IEPs were accepted.Eynon-Kokrda said Nebraska law does permit districts to turn down such students’ transfer requests. She said lawmakers have given school districts the benefit of the doubt, to do individualized assessments and determine whether they can support the students and not hide behind claiming they lack “capacity.”State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who is term-limited, noted that each school district gets additional funding if they have positive net option enrollment, to the tune of almost $11,000 per student. Linehan cautioned that districts can deny applications for any reason under current law.She and others noted that the Legislature doubled special education reimbursements to 80% last year while creating “foundation aid” for each public school district, roughly $1,500 for each public school student. Conversations continue about reforming the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/07/existing-equalization-aid-to-schools-could-be-main-nebraska-property-tax-relief-vehicle/">main funding formula</a>.John Skretta, a lobbyist for Lincoln Public Schools, said his district largely accepts all students for option enrollment, except those who are precluded because they previously used it. He suggested possibly increasing or adding a growth factor to “foundation aid.”Royers said while special education funding has returned, there is increased demand, too.<h2>‘We can’t stay with the status quo’</h2>When lawmakers required a reason be given for denial starting last year, Eynon-Kokrda said some still used capacity as a reason, which she defined as being “in the eyes of the beholder” and something could change “overnight,” based on district-by-district definitions. She suggested “disability blind legislation” that removes from each option enrollment application the question: Does your student have an IEP?“We can’t stay with the status quo, and I would urge you to introduce legislation that works to ensure equity for all children,” she said.Angela Gleason, an Omaha mother, said she has three children between the ages of 7 and 12, and her oldest, who has disabilities, hasn’t been accepted for option enrollment but her other two children have.“Little did we know that by simply having a disability and an individualized education program, we would be red flagging him to any district that we applied to if he was not the sort of student they would choose to admit for option enrollment,” Gleason testified of her oldest child.Gleason said it is disheartening to be denied year after year and to have her oldest son feel he is repeatedly being discriminated against. She said schools should either accept all or take no option enrollment students.Royers said a family that doesn’t answer that question but later reveals their child has an IEP must also be counted as a denial. He offered to help address concerns next year about school districts denying transfers of students with IEPs, without a stated reason.<h2>Possible 2025 legislation</h2>Conrad cautioned that there are real capacity concerns, such as class size and current teacher shortages, particularly those with special education endorsements.Carrie George, a special education teacher from the Papillion-La Vista area, echoed those concerns and said budget cuts have increased caseloads, leading to teacher burnout. She urged lawmakers to consult with special education departments and educators statewide to address current flaws before implementing new requirements.For example, Royers said, there were 286 unfilled special education positions in the state last year. Just a decade ago, that was 1,000% less, at 29 unfilled positions.“Teachers are deeply committed to student outcomes,” George said. “The greatest injustice would be for students to fail to reach their potential due to the limitations of well-intentioned policies.”Murman said one of his goals is that the data indicate a similar acceptance rate for students with IEPs compared to students without. He told the Nebraska Examiner that next year might include a renewed focus on special education, possibly targeting aid for high-cost services.Conrad said the hearing highlighted a need to increase resources and to address workforce shortages, which she described as a non-political issue.“This is an issue that every single member of the Education Committee cares really deeply about,” Conrad said. “I think these are the kinds of issues that I’m hopeful will be really front and center in terms of problem solving in the 2025 legislative session.”

Lawmakers probe special education, ‘option enrollment’ among Nebraska school districts

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting recognition events and resources for military veterans ahead of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11.

“Nebraska has a proud history of supporting its military personnel, both active and retired. We acknowledge the sacrifices that are made by servicemen and women and their families,” said Gov. Pillen. “From those who have fought in foreign lands to those who have served here at home safeguarding our peace, we appreciate the courage and commitment it takes to be part of our nation’s military family. On this Veterans Day, we offer our profound thanks.”

In honor of Veterans Day, the State Capitol will be lit green from Friday, Nov. 8 through Monday, Nov. 11, weather permitting. Several initiatives, including Greenlight a Vet and Operation Green Light, encourage people to change their exterior lights to green in support of veterans. Lighting the Capitol in green has been a state tradition since 2018. The color is meant to symbolize hope, renewal and forward momentum.

Throughout 2024, Gov. Pillen has worked with military, agency, and organization partners to honor Nebraska’s veterans and active military. This month, he presented lapel pins to Vietnam veterans from American Legion Post #158 and #256 in Cedar Bluffs. He took part in a similar, larger ceremony in April with Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs (NDVA) Director John Hilgert.

Most recently, Gov. Pillen joined military representatives and leadership from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new Nebraska Resource Center at Offutt Air Force Base. &nbsp;The center is the first of its kind in the nation, bringing a military, veteran and dependent support center to a public-facing storefront within a military base exchange.

Since May, Gov. Pillen and the NDVA have promoted a new initiative to recognize Nebraska’s living World War II veterans. Specially minted medals will be presented by the Governor at in-person ceremonies next year. Eligible veterans can still apply to receive a medal. More information about the program can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/world-war-ii-recognition-program" target="_blank">https://veterans.nebraska.gov/world-war-ii-recognition-program</a>.

Next week, a free dental clinic will be held at the Titan Army National Guard Readiness Center in Yutan, Nebraska. This is part of a partnership that involves the Nebraska Dental Foundation (NDF), NDVA, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Oral Health and Dentistry, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Dentistry, Creighton University School of Dentistry, and the Nebraska National Guard.

The same group organized its first dental clinic last fall, which provided care to 309 veterans and their spouses. The Veterans Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic was subsequently recognized with an award to the NDVA from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.&nbsp; It is anticipated that the upcoming clinic will be as well-received, given that all available slots for the upcoming two-day clinic have been filled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731069469107.jpeg" alt="Gov. Pillen at Vietnam Vet Pinning Event in Cedar Bluffs" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Pillen at Vietnam Vet Pinning Event in Cedar Bluffs</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting recognition events and resources for military veterans ahead of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11.“Nebraska has a proud history of supporting its military personnel, both active and retired. We acknowledge the sacrifices that are made by servicemen and women and their families,” said Gov. Pillen. “From those who have fought in foreign lands to those who have served here at home safeguarding our peace, we appreciate the courage and commitment it takes to be part of our nation’s military family. On this Veterans Day, we offer our profound thanks.”In honor of Veterans Day, the State Capitol will be lit green from Friday, Nov. 8 through Monday, Nov. 11, weather permitting. Several initiatives, including Greenlight a Vet and Operation Green Light, encourage people to change their exterior lights to green in support of veterans. Lighting the Capitol in green has been a state tradition since 2018. The color is meant to symbolize hope, renewal and forward momentum.Throughout 2024, Gov. Pillen has worked with military, agency, and organization partners to honor Nebraska’s veterans and active military. This month, he presented lapel pins to Vietnam veterans from American Legion Post #158 and #256 in Cedar Bluffs. He took part in a similar, larger ceremony in April with Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs (NDVA) Director John Hilgert.Most recently, Gov. Pillen joined military representatives and leadership from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new Nebraska Resource Center at Offutt Air Force Base. &nbsp;The center is the first of its kind in the nation, bringing a military, veteran and dependent support center to a public-facing storefront within a military base exchange.Since May, Gov. Pillen and the NDVA have promoted a new initiative to recognize Nebraska’s living World War II veterans. Specially minted medals will be presented by the Governor at in-person ceremonies next year. Eligible veterans can still apply to receive a medal. More information about the program can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/world-war-ii-recognition-program" target="_blank">https://veterans.nebraska.gov/world-war-ii-recognition-program</a>.Next week, a free dental clinic will be held at the Titan Army National Guard Readiness Center in Yutan, Nebraska. This is part of a partnership that involves the Nebraska Dental Foundation (NDF), NDVA, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Oral Health and Dentistry, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Dentistry, Creighton University School of Dentistry, and the Nebraska National Guard.The same group organized its first dental clinic last fall, which provided care to 309 veterans and their spouses. The Veterans Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic was subsequently recognized with an award to the NDVA from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.&nbsp; It is anticipated that the upcoming clinic will be as well-received, given that all available slots for the upcoming two-day clinic have been filled.

Gov. Pillen Shares Veterans Day Statement, Highlights Recognition Events and Resources

President Joe Biden addressed the nation Thursday morning from the White House Rose Garden. During his speech, he addressed the nation on the results of the 2024 election. President Biden congratulated President elect Trump on his victory. During the speech, Biden says his administration will work with Trumps administration for a peaceful transition.&nbsp; To learn more, check out his speech below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731007690831.jpeg" alt="President Biden remarks of the 2024 election, discusses the transition from one administration to another (Screen shot from the White House livestream)" />
 <figcaption>President Biden remarks of the 2024 election, discusses the transition from one administration to another (Screen shot from the White House livestream)</figcaption>
 </figure>President Joe Biden addressed the nation Thursday morning from the White House Rose Garden. During his speech, he addressed the nation on the results of the 2024 election. President Biden congratulated President elect Trump on his victory. During the speech, Biden says his administration will work with Trumps administration for a peaceful transition.&nbsp; To learn more, check out his speech below.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NK-vo7CsHOw?si=wkrUHLw5HzPvouky" 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 Biden remarks of the 2024 election, discusses transition and more

OMAHA, Neb. (Nov. 7, 2024) – Nonprofit changemakers across Nebraska and southwest Iowa will connect and amplify their impact at the <a href="https://assets.noviams.com/novi-file-uploads/nam/Summit/NAM_2024_Agenda_-_Updated.pdf">18th annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands</a> on Thursday, Nov. 14 at Embassy Suites La Vista Hotel and Conference Center, 12520 Westport Parkway.&nbsp;

Hosted by the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM), the all-day Summit brings together more than 300 nonprofit sector leaders that represent organizations of all sizes and diverse missions for a day filled with inspiration, collaboration and growth.

The theme for this year’s Summit is “Amplify,” which sets the stage for exploring innovative strategies and best practices to enhance the reach and effectiveness of nonprofits. Summit attendees will participate in a rich array of workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities tailored to meet the professional development needs of nonprofit leaders, employees, board members and volunteers alike. <a href="https://assets.noviams.com/novi-file-uploads/nam/Summit/NAM_2024_Agenda_-_Updated.pdf">Click here to view the agenda.</a>

“The Summit allows nonprofits to connect on ideas, gain valuable insights and expand their network — all while contributing to the collective impact of nonprofits in our local community,” said NAM CEO Anne Hindery. “We look forwarding to learning, collaborating and amplifying efforts toward building stronger, more resilient communities.”&nbsp;

Liz Moore, current Board Chair for the National Council of Nonprofits and immediate past Executive Director of the Montana Nonprofit Association, will host an interactive keynote presentation entitled “Change the Work: Rethinking Our Approach to Impact.” In a world overrun by noise, stimulus and nonstop demands on time and resources, amplifying impact requires nonprofit leaders to replace doing more with doing different.&nbsp;

Moore will explore tangible ways to amplify impact with resources that are within reach and soft skills, such as inquisitive listening, intentionality, strategic flexibility, reflective deliberation and presence. These powerful skills, when understood and cultivated, will uniquely position nonprofits to meet the challenges of the day.

NAM also will present its annual Catalyst Award at the Summit, which recognizes an organization that has made an impact in the nonprofit community. Recent winners include Inclusive Communities, Girls Inc. and Kids Can Community Center.&nbsp;

About Nonprofit Association of the Midlands

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. With NAM’s growing base of nonprofits, the organization is committed to: enhancing public recognition of the importance and role of the nonprofit sector; providing access to high-quality assistance and information on effective nonprofit management and practices; advocating on issues that affect the capacity of all nonprofits to address their communities’ needs; and fostering communication and cooperation among nonprofits. NAM also is recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits.&nbsp;

Nonprofits Summit of the MidlandsOMAHA, Neb. (Nov. 7, 2024) – Nonprofit changemakers across Nebraska and southwest Iowa will connect and amplify their impact at the <a href="https://assets.noviams.com/novi-file-uploads/nam/Summit/NAM_2024_Agenda_-_Updated.pdf">18th annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands</a> on Thursday, Nov. 14 at Embassy Suites La Vista Hotel and Conference Center, 12520 Westport Parkway.&nbsp;Hosted by the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM), the all-day Summit brings together more than 300 nonprofit sector leaders that represent organizations of all sizes and diverse missions for a day filled with inspiration, collaboration and growth.The theme for this year’s Summit is “Amplify,” which sets the stage for exploring innovative strategies and best practices to enhance the reach and effectiveness of nonprofits. Summit attendees will participate in a rich array of workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities tailored to meet the professional development needs of nonprofit leaders, employees, board members and volunteers alike. <a href="https://assets.noviams.com/novi-file-uploads/nam/Summit/NAM_2024_Agenda_-_Updated.pdf">Click here to view the agenda.</a>“The Summit allows nonprofits to connect on ideas, gain valuable insights and expand their network — all while contributing to the collective impact of nonprofits in our local community,” said NAM CEO Anne Hindery. “We look forwarding to learning, collaborating and amplifying efforts toward building stronger, more resilient communities.”&nbsp;Liz Moore, current Board Chair for the National Council of Nonprofits and immediate past Executive Director of the Montana Nonprofit Association, will host an interactive keynote presentation entitled “Change the Work: Rethinking Our Approach to Impact.” In a world overrun by noise, stimulus and nonstop demands on time and resources, amplifying impact requires nonprofit leaders to replace doing more with doing different.&nbsp;Moore will explore tangible ways to amplify impact with resources that are within reach and soft skills, such as inquisitive listening, intentionality, strategic flexibility, reflective deliberation and presence. These powerful skills, when understood and cultivated, will uniquely position nonprofits to meet the challenges of the day.NAM also will present its annual Catalyst Award at the Summit, which recognizes an organization that has made an impact in the nonprofit community. Recent winners include Inclusive Communities, Girls Inc. and Kids Can Community Center.&nbsp;About Nonprofit Association of the MidlandsNonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. With NAM’s growing base of nonprofits, the organization is committed to: enhancing public recognition of the importance and role of the nonprofit sector; providing access to high-quality assistance and information on effective nonprofit management and practices; advocating on issues that affect the capacity of all nonprofits to address their communities’ needs; and fostering communication and cooperation among nonprofits. NAM also is recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits.&nbsp;

Nonprofit Changemakers Amplify Impact at Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-voter-turnout-is-a-near-record-breaker/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The 2024 &nbsp;general election marked Nebraska’s second-highest number of votes cast in the state’s history.

That’s according to Secretary of State Bob Evnen’s Office, which reported Wednesday that 934,188 ballots were cast, and that several thousand early voting and provisional ballots have yet to be counted.

Still on top of the heap, in terms of votes cast, is turnout during the pandemic-era general election of 2020, with 966,920 ballots cast.

Preliminary turnout numbers show that 73.9% of Nebraska’s registered voters participated in the 2024 general election. That’s higher than the 72% prediction that Evnen had made earlier in the week.

Final turnout results could inch up slightly as remaining ballots are counted, a spokeswoman for the office said. As is, the 73.9% puts Tuesday’s general election among at least the Top 8 ever in terms of highest share of state voter participation.

No. 1 for percentage turnout remains the 1968 general election, with 80.8% turnout. That was the year Republican presidential nominee Richard Nixon defeated the Democratic nominee, incumbent Vice President Hubert Humphrey, and the American Independent Party nominee, former Alabama Gov. George Wallace.

Evnen said that county election offices across the state reported consistent voter turnout throughout Tuesday with “almost all voters” prepared with voter ID, as required by the new state law.

“County election officials and poll workers ensured a smooth and secure Election Day for thousands of Nebraskans,” said Evnen.&nbsp;

Voters who did not have an accepted ID on Election Day were able to vote provisionally. For those ballots to be accepted, the voters can present acceptable ID to their county election office by the end of the business day Nov. 12.

Unofficial results are posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://electionresults.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">electionresults.nebraska.gov.&nbsp;</a>Representatives of the Secretary of State’s Office and county election offices are to conduct a post-election audit to verify accuracy of the results. That happens with all statewide elections. Members of the Nebraska State Board of Canvassers are to convene Dec. 2 to certify election results

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, a few Nebraska legislative races remained close enough that the Nebraska Democratic Party said they were too close to call. Democrats were slightly ahead in those contests.

According to unofficial election results: Democrat Ashlei Spivey led Nick Batter, a nonpartisan, by 41 votes in northeast Douglas County’s District 13; Democrat Dan Quick led incumbent Ray Aguilar, a Republican, by 125 votes in Grand Island’s District 35; and Democrat Victor Rountree led Felix Ungerman, a Republican, by 181 votes in Sarpy County’s Legislative District 3.

Jane Kleeb, the Democratic Party’s executive director, called it a grueling election cycle.

“We stand tall that we did deliver the blue dot for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz,” she said, adding: “Our party has work to do.”

County election commissioners said they’ve yet to count early and provisional voting ballots.

In Hall County, for example, 195 largely provisional ballots in District 35 had yet to be validated and potentially included in the count, said Election Commissioner Tracy Overstreet. She said it would be seven to 10 days before the results are final.

Results within a certain range could trigger a recount. Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse said if there was any recount, it would happen on Dec 4.

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-voter-turnout-is-a-near-record-breaker/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The 2024 &nbsp;general election marked Nebraska’s second-highest number of votes cast in the state’s history.That’s according to Secretary of State Bob Evnen’s Office, which reported Wednesday that 934,188 ballots were cast, and that several thousand early voting and provisional ballots have yet to be counted.Still on top of the heap, in terms of votes cast, is turnout during the pandemic-era general election of 2020, with 966,920 ballots cast.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730991212334.jpeg" alt=" Nebraska election turnout historical data shown here does not reflect 2024 election results, which are not yet final. (Courtesy of Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office)" />
 <figcaption> Nebraska election turnout historical data shown here does not reflect 2024 election results, which are not yet final. (Courtesy of Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary turnout numbers show that 73.9% of Nebraska’s registered voters participated in the 2024 general election. That’s higher than the 72% prediction that Evnen had made earlier in the week.Final turnout results could inch up slightly as remaining ballots are counted, a spokeswoman for the office said. As is, the 73.9% puts Tuesday’s general election among at least the Top 8 ever in terms of highest share of state voter participation.No. 1 for percentage turnout remains the 1968 general election, with 80.8% turnout. That was the year Republican presidential nominee Richard Nixon defeated the Democratic nominee, incumbent Vice President Hubert Humphrey, and the American Independent Party nominee, former Alabama Gov. George Wallace.<h2>‘Smooth and secure’</h2>Evnen said that county election offices across the state reported consistent voter turnout throughout Tuesday with “almost all voters” prepared with voter ID, as required by the new state law.“County election officials and poll workers ensured a smooth and secure Election Day for thousands of Nebraskans,” said Evnen.&nbsp;Voters who did not have an accepted ID on Election Day were able to vote provisionally. For those ballots to be accepted, the voters can present acceptable ID to their county election office by the end of the business day Nov. 12.Unofficial results are posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://electionresults.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">electionresults.nebraska.gov.&nbsp;</a>Representatives of the Secretary of State’s Office and county election offices are to conduct a post-election audit to verify accuracy of the results. That happens with all statewide elections. Members of the Nebraska State Board of Canvassers are to convene Dec. 2 to certify election results<h2>Close to call</h2>Meanwhile, on Wednesday, a few Nebraska legislative races remained close enough that the Nebraska Democratic Party said they were too close to call. Democrats were slightly ahead in those contests.According to unofficial election results: Democrat Ashlei Spivey led Nick Batter, a nonpartisan, by 41 votes in northeast Douglas County’s District 13; Democrat Dan Quick led incumbent Ray Aguilar, a Republican, by 125 votes in Grand Island’s District 35; and Democrat Victor Rountree led Felix Ungerman, a Republican, by 181 votes in Sarpy County’s Legislative District 3.Jane Kleeb, the Democratic Party’s executive director, called it a grueling election cycle.“We stand tall that we did deliver the blue dot for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz,” she said, adding: “Our party has work to do.”County election commissioners said they’ve yet to count early and provisional voting ballots.In Hall County, for example, 195 largely provisional ballots in District 35 had yet to be validated and potentially included in the count, said Election Commissioner Tracy Overstreet. She said it would be seven to 10 days before the results are final.Results within a certain range could trigger a recount. Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse said if there was any recount, it would happen on Dec 4.

Nebraska voter turnout is a near record-breaker

(November 6, 2024 –&nbsp;Omaha, Nebraska)&nbsp;On November 5, 2024, Nebraska voters rejected deceptive pro-abortion Initiative 439, which would have allowed late-term abortion and would have effectively abolished nearly 50 years of abortion legislative restrictions in the state. More than 55% of Nebraska voters instead opted for the pro-life alternative, Initiative 434, which gives constitutional&nbsp;protection to the unborn in the second and third trimesters and permits further legislative restrictions of abortion throughout pregnancy.

Prior to Election Day, Thomas More Society attorneys challenged Initiative 439 at the Nebraska Supreme Court, arguing that the amendment violated Nebraska’s Single Subject Rule. Although the Nebraska Supreme Court decided to allow the “Protect the Right to Abortion” ballot initiative to stay on the November ballot, the Thomas More Society lawsuit was the first time all levels of the press reported on the actual effect of the language of the initiative, demonstrating for the public how deceptive it was.

Earlier in the year, Thomas More Society also had filed with the Nebraska Supreme Court the only amicus brief defending the constitutionality of LB574, a highly publicized 2023 bill that limited abortions to the first12 weeks and also protected Nebraska minors from underage transgender surgeries. The Nebraska Supreme Court agreed and upheld the bill. Due to that success, LB 574 will continue to be the law in Nebraska, protected now in the Nebraska Constitution due to the successful passage of Initiative 434.

Matt Heffron, Thomas More Society Senior Counsel, reacted:&nbsp;“As the last few remaining ballots are tallied, it is now&nbsp;clear that Nebraskans saw through the abortion industry’s smokescreen. When faced with a choice between a radical abortion expansion initiative and a pro-life alternative, voters in the Cornhusker State opted to choose life at the ballot box. The pro-abortion constitutional amendment was an outrageously deceptive scheme from the start, and Big Abortion believed it could fool Nebraskans with&nbsp;vague and deceptive language. They were wrong. I am glad that we at&nbsp;Thomas More Society were able to take a leading role in the fight against Initiative 439.”

Read background on the Thomas More Society legal challenge to Nebraska’s abortion expansion ballot initiative,&nbsp;State of Nebraska ex rel. LaGreca v. Evnen,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thomasmoresociety.org/case/state-of-nebraska-ex-rel-lagreca-v-evnen">here</a>.

Tom Ciesielka&nbsp;Thomas More Society(November 6, 2024 –&nbsp;Omaha, Nebraska)&nbsp;On November 5, 2024, Nebraska voters rejected deceptive pro-abortion Initiative 439, which would have allowed late-term abortion and would have effectively abolished nearly 50 years of abortion legislative restrictions in the state. More than 55% of Nebraska voters instead opted for the pro-life alternative, Initiative 434, which gives constitutional&nbsp;protection to the unborn in the second and third trimesters and permits further legislative restrictions of abortion throughout pregnancy.Prior to Election Day, Thomas More Society attorneys challenged Initiative 439 at the Nebraska Supreme Court, arguing that the amendment violated Nebraska’s Single Subject Rule. Although the Nebraska Supreme Court decided to allow the “Protect the Right to Abortion” ballot initiative to stay on the November ballot, the Thomas More Society lawsuit was the first time all levels of the press reported on the actual effect of the language of the initiative, demonstrating for the public how deceptive it was.Earlier in the year, Thomas More Society also had filed with the Nebraska Supreme Court the only amicus brief defending the constitutionality of LB574, a highly publicized 2023 bill that limited abortions to the first12 weeks and also protected Nebraska minors from underage transgender surgeries. The Nebraska Supreme Court agreed and upheld the bill. Due to that success, LB 574 will continue to be the law in Nebraska, protected now in the Nebraska Constitution due to the successful passage of Initiative 434.Matt Heffron, Thomas More Society Senior Counsel, reacted:&nbsp;“As the last few remaining ballots are tallied, it is now&nbsp;clear that Nebraskans saw through the abortion industry’s smokescreen. When faced with a choice between a radical abortion expansion initiative and a pro-life alternative, voters in the Cornhusker State opted to choose life at the ballot box. The pro-abortion constitutional amendment was an outrageously deceptive scheme from the start, and Big Abortion believed it could fool Nebraskans with&nbsp;vague and deceptive language. They were wrong. I am glad that we at&nbsp;Thomas More Society were able to take a leading role in the fight against Initiative 439.”Read background on the Thomas More Society legal challenge to Nebraska’s abortion expansion ballot initiative,&nbsp;State of Nebraska ex rel. LaGreca v. Evnen,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thomasmoresociety.org/case/state-of-nebraska-ex-rel-lagreca-v-evnen">here</a>.

Nebraskans Reject Radical Abortion Amendment, Approve Pro-Life Alternative

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/05/nebraskans-vote-yes-to-requiring-employers-to-provide-earned-paid-sick-leave/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska employers will now be required to provide earned paid sick leave for eligible employees, through a ballot issue that passed Tuesday.

Advocates had estimated that 250,000 Nebraskans were working full-time without paid sick days, leaving them to face choices that included ignoring their illness and sending sick kids to school to avoid consequences such as missing a day’s pay.

However, passage of Initiative 436 means that eligible employees now will have the right to earn sick time for personal or family health needs. The issue had about 75 percent support about 11 p.m.

“It’s another example of Nebraskans supporting Nebraskans and workers in Nebraska having a better day,” one of the co-sponsors for the initiative, Craig Moody, said Tuesday night as the vote count poured in favoring paid sick leave.

Moody, who runs Verdis Group, a sustainability consulting firm based in Omaha, has said the ballot measure would provide a strong return on investment for Nebraska businesses.

Under the ballot initiative, employers with fewer than 20 employees must provide up to 40 hours (five days) of sick leave annually, and larger employers, with 20 or more employees, must provide up to 56 hours (seven days).

The driver of the effort, the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans group, said that paid sick leave was rarest in service industries (such as restaurants), construction, manufacturing, warehousing, retail, educational support and transportation.

The biggest resistance to paid sick leave came from some smaller businesses. Critics said it unnecessarily complicates an issue where responsible businesses can compete by offering benefits when they can’t compete as easily on pay.

The sick leave petition was the first of what ultimately became six ballot issues to qualify for the Nov. 5 ballot.

Organizers had announced in June that they turned in 138,000 signatures in support of the ballot measure. Election officials in August stopped counting after confirming 97,557 signatures — which was 11,000 more than the 86,500 needed for the 7% threshold statewide to change state law.

Nebraska also requires that its petition gatherers collect valid signatures from 5% of registered voters in at least 38 of the state’s 93 counties. The effort hit 5% or more in 47 counties, according to a release from the Secretary of State’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730906234855.jpeg" alt="The Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans group turned in more than 138,000 signatures from voters to reach the ballot. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans group turned in more than 138,000 signatures from voters to reach the ballot. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/05/nebraskans-vote-yes-to-requiring-employers-to-provide-earned-paid-sick-leave/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska employers will now be required to provide earned paid sick leave for eligible employees, through a ballot issue that passed Tuesday.Advocates had estimated that 250,000 Nebraskans were working full-time without paid sick days, leaving them to face choices that included ignoring their illness and sending sick kids to school to avoid consequences such as missing a day’s pay.However, passage of Initiative 436 means that eligible employees now will have the right to earn sick time for personal or family health needs. The issue had about 75 percent support about 11 p.m.“It’s another example of Nebraskans supporting Nebraskans and workers in Nebraska having a better day,” one of the co-sponsors for the initiative, Craig Moody, said Tuesday night as the vote count poured in favoring paid sick leave.Moody, who runs Verdis Group, a sustainability consulting firm based in Omaha, has said the ballot measure would provide a strong return on investment for Nebraska businesses.Under the ballot initiative, employers with fewer than 20 employees must provide up to 40 hours (five days) of sick leave annually, and larger employers, with 20 or more employees, must provide up to 56 hours (seven days).The driver of the effort, the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans group, said that paid sick leave was rarest in service industries (such as restaurants), construction, manufacturing, warehousing, retail, educational support and transportation.The biggest resistance to paid sick leave came from some smaller businesses. Critics said it unnecessarily complicates an issue where responsible businesses can compete by offering benefits when they can’t compete as easily on pay.The sick leave petition was the first of what ultimately became six ballot issues to qualify for the Nov. 5 ballot.Organizers had announced in June that they turned in 138,000 signatures in support of the ballot measure. Election officials in August stopped counting after confirming 97,557 signatures — which was 11,000 more than the 86,500 needed for the 7% threshold statewide to change state law.Nebraska also requires that its petition gatherers collect valid signatures from 5% of registered voters in at least 38 of the state’s 93 counties. The effort hit 5% or more in 47 counties, according to a release from the Secretary of State’s Office.

Nebraskans vote yes to requiring employers to provide earned paid sick leave

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-u-s-reps-mike-flood-adrian-smith-sail-to-re-election/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Flood overcame strong Democratic turnout in the 1st District’s largest city, winning re-election Tuesday over State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue.

And Republican U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith cruised to re-election over Democrat Dan Ebers in Nebraska’s sprawling, rural 3rd Congressional District, which covers roughly three-fourths of the state.

Blood, who is term-limited in the Legislature, had argued that Flood was no longer the pragmatic Speaker of the Legislature who many Nebraskans remembered. She said he has shifted farther to the right than many in his district are comfortable with.

Flood denied changing his views after serving separate stints as a state senator from Norfolk.&nbsp;

He said he had always been conservative but remains willing to work across the aisle with people on issues such as national security and the future of finance, including crypto.

He won the 1st District’s Republican-leaning areas, as well as enough Lancaster County voters to overcome its Democratic lean.

He was leading 56%-44% as of midnight. The Associated Press called the race after the first couple rounds of Tuesday evening’s results were released.

Flood said he was grateful to have the two years to run a normal race after having to run in a rare special election and regular election in rapid succession in 2022. He said he’s getting more comfortable with the people and issues facing his district.

“It’s nice to be in an election that’s not a fire drill,” Flood said. “It gives you a chance to meet the voters and to go to different communities. You have to develop relationships in Columbus and Fremont and Seward and Clarkson. It takes time.”

Blood, who supports abortion rights, tried to make reproductive health a separation point in the race, given that Nebraskans voted Tuesday on two abortion-related ballot measures.

But Flood has been hard for Democrats to unseat because of his base of support in northeast Nebraska, where a large number of Catholic voters share his opposition to abortion.

He has described his tough-on-crime views, his adversarial stance on China and his pro-agriculture, pro-university research positions as being squarely in the mainstream of his mixed district.

Immigration was a flash point in the race, with Blood questioning whether Flood or his GOP colleagues were sincere about trying to fix a broken immigration system.

Flood argued part of the problem lay at the feet of a Democratic Senate and president.

Blood argued district deserved more effective representation

Blood argued she would do more to protect Medicare and Social Security for seniors. But, in the end, the district sided with Flood, who owns News Channel Nebraska and other broadcast stations.

Flood joined Congress after a special election in June 2022. He replaced U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, who resigned after being convicted of federal crimes related to campaign finance. Fortenberry has since had his federal conviction overturned on a technicality of where the trial was held. He faces new charges, which he is contesting as political in nature.&nbsp;

Personal and family health issues kept Blood from the trail, but she said she did all she could. She said her campaign knocked on thousands of doors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We knew that everyone was saying that we had like a 1 percent chance of winning, and my opponent entered the race with a million dollars,” Blood said. “The one thing we had to do was work harder.”

In the 3rd District, Smith easily defeated Ebers, who moved from Cambridge, Neb., to Lincoln for his job in hotel management. House candidates don’t have to live in a district to run there.

The district is one of the most Republican-leaning in the country. The race was largely over after the GOP primary, which Smith won 74%-19%. He was leading 81%-19% as of midnight.

“I’m humbled and grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve Nebraskans in the House and continue the fight for tax relief and to cut wasteful spending, to secure the border, and to grow the economy,” Smith said.

During the campaign, Smith argued most Nebraskans care more about bread-and-butter issues like agricultural trade and making American products and manufacturing more competitive than they do about other issues.

He spoke most often about inflation and the need to help consumers bounce back from four years under President Joe Biden. Ebers argued that Nebraskans needed a more collaborative approach. Ebers had no immediate comment Tuesday night.

Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-u-s-reps-mike-flood-adrian-smith-sail-to-re-election/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Flood overcame strong Democratic turnout in the 1st District’s largest city, winning re-election Tuesday over State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue.And Republican U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith cruised to re-election over Democrat Dan Ebers in Nebraska’s sprawling, rural 3rd Congressional District, which covers roughly three-fourths of the state.Blood, who is term-limited in the Legislature, had argued that Flood was no longer the pragmatic Speaker of the Legislature who many Nebraskans remembered. She said he has shifted farther to the right than many in his district are comfortable with.<h2>Flood says he was always conservative</h2>Flood denied changing his views after serving separate stints as a state senator from Norfolk.&nbsp;He said he had always been conservative but remains willing to work across the aisle with people on issues such as national security and the future of finance, including crypto.He won the 1st District’s Republican-leaning areas, as well as enough Lancaster County voters to overcome its Democratic lean.He was leading 56%-44% as of midnight. The Associated Press called the race after the first couple rounds of Tuesday evening’s results were released.Flood said he was grateful to have the two years to run a normal race after having to run in a rare special election and regular election in rapid succession in 2022. He said he’s getting more comfortable with the people and issues facing his district.“It’s nice to be in an election that’s not a fire drill,” Flood said. “It gives you a chance to meet the voters and to go to different communities. You have to develop relationships in Columbus and Fremont and Seward and Clarkson. It takes time.”Blood, who supports abortion rights, tried to make reproductive health a separation point in the race, given that Nebraskans voted Tuesday on two abortion-related ballot measures.But Flood has been hard for Democrats to unseat because of his base of support in northeast Nebraska, where a large number of Catholic voters share his opposition to abortion.He has described his tough-on-crime views, his adversarial stance on China and his pro-agriculture, pro-university research positions as being squarely in the mainstream of his mixed district.Immigration was a flash point in the race, with Blood questioning whether Flood or his GOP colleagues were sincere about trying to fix a broken immigration system.Flood argued part of the problem lay at the feet of a Democratic Senate and president.<h2>Blood argued district deserved more effective representation</h2>Blood argued she would do more to protect Medicare and Social Security for seniors. But, in the end, the district sided with Flood, who owns News Channel Nebraska and other broadcast stations.Flood joined Congress after a special election in June 2022. He replaced U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, who resigned after being convicted of federal crimes related to campaign finance. Fortenberry has since had his federal conviction overturned on a technicality of where the trial was held. He faces new charges, which he is contesting as political in nature.&nbsp;Personal and family health issues kept Blood from the trail, but she said she did all she could. She said her campaign knocked on thousands of doors.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We knew that everyone was saying that we had like a 1 percent chance of winning, and my opponent entered the race with a million dollars,” Blood said. “The one thing we had to do was work harder.”<h2>Smith sails to re-election again</h2>In the 3rd District, Smith easily defeated Ebers, who moved from Cambridge, Neb., to Lincoln for his job in hotel management. House candidates don’t have to live in a district to run there.The district is one of the most Republican-leaning in the country. The race was largely over after the GOP primary, which Smith won 74%-19%. He was leading 81%-19% as of midnight.“I’m humbled and grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve Nebraskans in the House and continue the fight for tax relief and to cut wasteful spending, to secure the border, and to grow the economy,” Smith said.During the campaign, Smith argued most Nebraskans care more about bread-and-butter issues like agricultural trade and making American products and manufacturing more competitive than they do about other issues.He spoke most often about inflation and the need to help consumers bounce back from four years under President Joe Biden. Ebers argued that Nebraskans needed a more collaborative approach. Ebers had no immediate comment Tuesday night.

Nebraska U.S. Reps. Mike Flood, Adrian Smith sail to re-election

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-passes-abortion-restrictions-amendment-bucking-national-trend/">Nebraska Examiner&nbsp;</a>

BELLEVUE, Nebraska — Nebraska voters faced a first-in-the-nation test Tuesday by voting on two competing constitutional amendments on abortion in the same election — and they appeared poised to buck the national trend by favoring abortion restrictions.&nbsp;

Voters adopted Initiative 434, an abortion-restrictions amendment that bans most abortions after the first trimester, with exceptions for the life of the mother, rape and incest. The measure also leaves the Legislature the authority to pass additional restrictions, up to a complete ban.

As of 2:20 a.m. Wednesday, it was passing 55%-45%. There were still at least 9,000 ballots to count in Douglas County, the state’s most populous. But the Associated Press concluded about 1 a.m.&nbsp;Wednesday that the measure would pass.

Jessica Flanagain, a political consultant for Protect Women and Children, said the win helps show the supporters of abortion restrictions that there is a way to push back against “what was a tsunami of pro-abortion constitutional amendments.”&nbsp;

“It also is an opportunity in the states where these initiatives have already been lost to go back and revisit the issue with voters,” she said.

Organizers said the vote early Wednesday was too close to call on Initiative 439, an abortion-rights amendment that would add a right to abortion to the Nebraska Constitution until fetal viability, the timing of which would be defined by a treating health care practitioner.

Allie Berry, the campaign Manager for Protect Our Rights, said in a statement that she knew the race would be close and that “there are still a lot of votes to be counted and every Nebraskan deserves to have their voice heard.”

Nebraska was among 10 states with abortion-related measures on the ballot Tuesday. Before this election, every state voting on abortion changes since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade had sided with abortion rights measures.&nbsp;

National advocates on all sides of the issue have been watching Nebraska to see the result of anti-abortion groups’ novel approach of putting a competing option on the ballot.&nbsp;

Republicans outnumber Democrats in Nebraska roughly 2 to 1, with about a quarter of the electorate registered as nonpartisans or as members of third parties. Party affiliation hasn’t always determined the outcome of abortion ballot measures.&nbsp;

Voters in neighboring Kansas, another conservative state, voted to protect abortion rights two months after the Supreme Court eliminated a national right to an abortion.

Abortion-restriction advocates celebrated the win, saying they had helped a conservative, “pro-life” state overcome a well-funded national effort to broaden and cement abortion rights and eliminate state restrictions on the procedure, including a state law requiring parental notification.

Supporters of the abortion-restrictions amendment said voters simply concluded that Initiative 439, the abortion-rights amendment, went too far. They said it left too much room for midwives and doulas to decide viability, decisions they said were best left to doctors.

Sandy Danek, executive director of Nebraska Right to Life, said her group was grateful for “people who worked tirelessly at the grassroots level to help educate the public on this issue so they could make an informed decision at the polls.”

“Nebraskans have spoken; they have voted in favor of the dignity of both mothers and the children in their wombs,” Danek said.

Some critics of Initiative 434 have said it muddied the waters by selling the abortion-restrictions amendment as a moderate alternative to the abortion-rights amendment.

Protect Women and Children and other supporters of Initiative 434 have acknowledged their measure was crafted to seem moderate while leaving legal room for additional restrictions.

Abortion-rights advocates have argued that the abortion-restrictions amendment masked the risks to women of current and future abortion bans. They warned of consequences, including the need to travel out of state for reproductive care to avoid injury or death.

Some argued the Legislature would now pursue additional restrictions, up to a full ban. Many pointed to how close state senators came in 2023 to passing a ban after about six weeks into a pregnancy, falling a single vote short.&nbsp;

Current Nebraska law prohibits most abortions after 12 weeks gestational age, with exceptions after that for the life of the mother or for rape or incest.

Local political observers expect Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, with advice from Attorney General Mike Hilgers, to quickly acknowledge the adoption of the abortion-restrictions amendment after the votes are certified. He had no immediate comment early Wednesday. Pillen and Hilgers backed Initiative 434.

Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/nebraska-passes-abortion-restrictions-amendment-bucking-national-trend/">Nebraska Examiner&nbsp;</a>BELLEVUE, Nebraska — Nebraska voters faced a first-in-the-nation test Tuesday by voting on two competing constitutional amendments on abortion in the same election — and they appeared poised to buck the national trend by favoring abortion restrictions.&nbsp;Voters adopted Initiative 434, an abortion-restrictions amendment that bans most abortions after the first trimester, with exceptions for the life of the mother, rape and incest. The measure also leaves the Legislature the authority to pass additional restrictions, up to a complete ban.As of 2:20 a.m. Wednesday, it was passing 55%-45%. There were still at least 9,000 ballots to count in Douglas County, the state’s most populous. But the Associated Press concluded about 1 a.m.&nbsp;Wednesday that the measure would pass.Jessica Flanagain, a political consultant for Protect Women and Children, said the win helps show the supporters of abortion restrictions that there is a way to push back against “what was a tsunami of pro-abortion constitutional amendments.”&nbsp;“It also is an opportunity in the states where these initiatives have already been lost to go back and revisit the issue with voters,” she said.Organizers said the vote early Wednesday was too close to call on Initiative 439, an abortion-rights amendment that would add a right to abortion to the Nebraska Constitution until fetal viability, the timing of which would be defined by a treating health care practitioner.It trailed 51%-49% as of 2:20 a.m.Allie Berry, the campaign Manager for Protect Our Rights, said in a statement that she knew the race would be close and that “there are still a lot of votes to be counted and every Nebraskan deserves to have their voice heard.”Nebraska was among 10 states with abortion-related measures on the ballot Tuesday. Before this election, every state voting on abortion changes since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade had sided with abortion rights measures.&nbsp;National advocates on all sides of the issue have been watching Nebraska to see the result of anti-abortion groups’ novel approach of putting a competing option on the ballot.&nbsp;Republicans outnumber Democrats in Nebraska roughly 2 to 1, with about a quarter of the electorate registered as nonpartisans or as members of third parties. Party affiliation hasn’t always determined the outcome of abortion ballot measures.&nbsp;Voters in neighboring Kansas, another conservative state, voted to protect abortion rights two months after the Supreme Court eliminated a national right to an abortion.Abortion-restriction advocates celebrated the win, saying they had helped a conservative, “pro-life” state overcome a well-funded national effort to broaden and cement abortion rights and eliminate state restrictions on the procedure, including a state law requiring parental notification.Supporters of the abortion-restrictions amendment said voters simply concluded that Initiative 439, the abortion-rights amendment, went too far. They said it left too much room for midwives and doulas to decide viability, decisions they said were best left to doctors.Sandy Danek, executive director of Nebraska Right to Life, said her group was grateful for “people who worked tirelessly at the grassroots level to help educate the public on this issue so they could make an informed decision at the polls.”“Nebraskans have spoken; they have voted in favor of the dignity of both mothers and the children in their wombs,” Danek said.Some critics of Initiative 434 have said it muddied the waters by selling the abortion-restrictions amendment as a moderate alternative to the abortion-rights amendment.Protect Women and Children and other supporters of Initiative 434 have acknowledged their measure was crafted to seem moderate while leaving legal room for additional restrictions.Abortion-rights advocates have argued that the abortion-restrictions amendment masked the risks to women of current and future abortion bans. They warned of consequences, including the need to travel out of state for reproductive care to avoid injury or death.Some argued the Legislature would now pursue additional restrictions, up to a full ban. Many pointed to how close state senators came in 2023 to passing a ban after about six weeks into a pregnancy, falling a single vote short.&nbsp;Current Nebraska law prohibits most abortions after 12 weeks gestational age, with exceptions after that for the life of the mother or for rape or incest.Local political observers expect Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, with advice from Attorney General Mike Hilgers, to quickly acknowledge the adoption of the abortion-restrictions amendment after the votes are certified. He had no immediate comment early Wednesday. Pillen and Hilgers backed Initiative 434.

Nebraska passes abortion-restrictions amendment, bucking national trend

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;This week, Governor Jim Pillen and state leaders will embark on a diplomatic and trade mission to the Czech Republic and Germany. The delegation includes representatives from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), Nebraska National Guard, the University of Nebraska, the state’s agriculture and banking industries, and the ag tech sector. The mission will take place from November 7-14.

“European consumers place a high value on sustainability,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska’s low-carbon production of food, feed, and fuel can help meet this demand. We are excited to showcase our state’s precision ag technologies and leadership in animal agriculture while in Czechia and Germany.”

In the Czech Republic, Nebraska’s delegation will meet with the national government’s ministries of agriculture and foreign affairs, military leaders, and Czech agribusinesses. The goal of the mission is to deepen existing military, commercial, and educational partnerships. The State will also explore opportunities for agricultural research collaboration, particularly in livestock production.

Nebraska has longstanding cultural ties to the Czech Republic. From the mid-1850s to the 1910s, an estimated 50,000 Czechs settled in Nebraska. By the early 20th&nbsp;century, Nebraska had welcomed more Czech immigrants, per capita, than any other state. To honor this heritage, Gov. Pillen signed LB 140 into law this year, creating Czech Heritage license plates. Additionally, Nebraska’s National Guard has a 30+ year partnership with the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic through the U.S. European Command State Partnership Program. Since 1993, the partners have cooperated on more than 300 engagements, such as joint training exercises and military expertise exchanges.

In Germany, Nebraska’s delegation will recruit investment into the state’s bioeconomy; meet with leaders of German state governments; and take part in EuroTier, the largest international trade show for animal agriculture. Gov. Pillen will give the keynote address at EuroTier’s International Cattle &amp; Pig Event on Nov. 11. The state delegation will also meet with German companies doing business in Nebraska to thank them for their ongoing investment. Additionally, the trade mission will promote Nebraska ag products, especially beef. In 2023, Nebraska exported $111 million of beef to the European Union—more than any other U.S. state.

“German businesses are renowned for their manufacturing prowess,” said DED Director K.C. Belitz. “Nebraska’s world-class workforce, central location, and strengths in transportation and logistics are strong selling points as we invite manufacturers to locate or expand in our state.”

Bayer, CLAAS, Continental, Evonik, and Graepel, and Siemens&nbsp;are among the German companies with significant operations&nbsp;in the Cornhusker State.

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;This week, Governor Jim Pillen and state leaders will embark on a diplomatic and trade mission to the Czech Republic and Germany. The delegation includes representatives from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), Nebraska National Guard, the University of Nebraska, the state’s agriculture and banking industries, and the ag tech sector. The mission will take place from November 7-14.“European consumers place a high value on sustainability,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska’s low-carbon production of food, feed, and fuel can help meet this demand. We are excited to showcase our state’s precision ag technologies and leadership in animal agriculture while in Czechia and Germany.”In the Czech Republic, Nebraska’s delegation will meet with the national government’s ministries of agriculture and foreign affairs, military leaders, and Czech agribusinesses. The goal of the mission is to deepen existing military, commercial, and educational partnerships. The State will also explore opportunities for agricultural research collaboration, particularly in livestock production.Nebraska has longstanding cultural ties to the Czech Republic. From the mid-1850s to the 1910s, an estimated 50,000 Czechs settled in Nebraska. By the early 20th&nbsp;century, Nebraska had welcomed more Czech immigrants, per capita, than any other state. To honor this heritage, Gov. Pillen signed LB 140 into law this year, creating Czech Heritage license plates. Additionally, Nebraska’s National Guard has a 30+ year partnership with the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic through the U.S. European Command State Partnership Program. Since 1993, the partners have cooperated on more than 300 engagements, such as joint training exercises and military expertise exchanges.In Germany, Nebraska’s delegation will recruit investment into the state’s bioeconomy; meet with leaders of German state governments; and take part in EuroTier, the largest international trade show for animal agriculture. Gov. Pillen will give the keynote address at EuroTier’s International Cattle &amp; Pig Event on Nov. 11. The state delegation will also meet with German companies doing business in Nebraska to thank them for their ongoing investment. Additionally, the trade mission will promote Nebraska ag products, especially beef. In 2023, Nebraska exported $111 million of beef to the European Union—more than any other U.S. state.“German businesses are renowned for their manufacturing prowess,” said DED Director K.C. Belitz. “Nebraska’s world-class workforce, central location, and strengths in transportation and logistics are strong selling points as we invite manufacturers to locate or expand in our state.”Bayer, CLAAS, Continental, Evonik, and Graepel, and Siemens&nbsp;are among the German companies with significant operations&nbsp;in the Cornhusker State.

 Gov. Pillen to Lead State Delegation to Czech Republic and Germany

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/bacon-leads-but-nebraskas-2nd-district-race-remains-too-close-to-call/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — Nebraska’s most competitive congressional race may have to wait a little longer to declare a winner, as votes for U.S. Rep. Don Bacon and State Sen. Tony Vargas remained too close to call early Wednesday.

Bacon led Vargas, 51%-49%, by 6 a.m. Wednesday in the 2nd District race. The Republican incumbent’s lead grew overnight to 8,300 votes. Election officials still need to count at least 9,000 ballots, including last-day early votes in Douglas County and provisional ballots that need to be verified.

Bacon told the Examiner that he was encouraged by the results but that there were more votes to count. His campaign manager, Matthew Zacher, told a gathering of Republicans that Bacon hoped to be able to speak about the race Wednesday.

Zacher said he was “cautiously optimistic” that Bacon would beat&nbsp;Vargas, a Democrat.

Vargas, in a statement, asked his supporters to be patient. He said the past few years have taught Americans that counting votes takes time — and that accurate results are worth it.

“Our democracy is worth waiting for and we’re going to have to be patient until all the work of tallying the votes is finished,” Vargas said. “We feel really good about where we are, and after every vote is counted, we are confident that we’ll win this race.”&nbsp;

Early votes returned Tuesday are unlikely to depart significantly from the trends of early voting overall, which favored Vargas. A similar trend could narrow the gap. Others said those early votes could skew toward west Omaha, helping Bacon.

All three county election commissioners in the 2nd Congressional District have at least some votes yet to count, but none has more than Douglas County, home to Omaha and the largest share of the district’s Democrats.

Bacon has complained of swimming against the tide of Vice President Kamala Harris and her backers, who were outspending Trump in the 2nd District roughly 20 to 1.&nbsp;

The 2nd District race is costlier, in part, because of the potential for the stray electoral vote, or “blue dot.” It’s one of a dozen or so swing districts nationally that either party can win, though Republicans hold a slight advantage in voter registrations and redistricting added rural Saunders County and swapped out some purpling suburbs in Sarpy County.

The 2nd District includes all of Douglas and Saunders Counties and a slice of western Sarpy County.

As of mid-October, the two candidates had already raised a total of nearly $13 million and spent more than $11 million, with Vargas having a slight edge, according to federal campaign finance filings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730902383761.jpeg" alt="Nebraska voters in the state’s 2nd Congressional District will face a rematch between Democratic State Sen. Tony Vargas, left, and U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb. (Candidate photos courtesy of the campaigns; Capitol photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska voters in the state’s 2nd Congressional District will face a rematch between Democratic State Sen. Tony Vargas, left, and U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb. (Candidate photos courtesy of the campaigns; Capitol photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/11/06/bacon-leads-but-nebraskas-2nd-district-race-remains-too-close-to-call/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — Nebraska’s most competitive congressional race may have to wait a little longer to declare a winner, as votes for U.S. Rep. Don Bacon and State Sen. Tony Vargas remained too close to call early Wednesday.Bacon led Vargas, 51%-49%, by 6 a.m. Wednesday in the 2nd District race. The Republican incumbent’s lead grew overnight to 8,300 votes. Election officials still need to count at least 9,000 ballots, including last-day early votes in Douglas County and provisional ballots that need to be verified.Bacon told the Examiner that he was encouraged by the results but that there were more votes to count. His campaign manager, Matthew Zacher, told a gathering of Republicans that Bacon hoped to be able to speak about the race Wednesday.Zacher said he was “cautiously optimistic” that Bacon would beat&nbsp;Vargas, a Democrat.Vargas, in a statement, asked his supporters to be patient. He said the past few years have taught Americans that counting votes takes time — and that accurate results are worth it.“Our democracy is worth waiting for and we’re going to have to be patient until all the work of tallying the votes is finished,” Vargas said. “We feel really good about where we are, and after every vote is counted, we are confident that we’ll win this race.”&nbsp;Early votes returned Tuesday are unlikely to depart significantly from the trends of early voting overall, which favored Vargas. A similar trend could narrow the gap. Others said those early votes could skew toward west Omaha, helping Bacon.All three county election commissioners in the 2nd Congressional District have at least some votes yet to count, but none has more than Douglas County, home to Omaha and the largest share of the district’s Democrats.Bacon has complained of swimming against the tide of Vice President Kamala Harris and her backers, who were outspending Trump in the 2nd District roughly 20 to 1.&nbsp;The 2nd District race is costlier, in part, because of the potential for the stray electoral vote, or “blue dot.” It’s one of a dozen or so swing districts nationally that either party can win, though Republicans hold a slight advantage in voter registrations and redistricting added rural Saunders County and swapped out some purpling suburbs in Sarpy County.The 2nd District includes all of Douglas and Saunders Counties and a slice of western Sarpy County.As of mid-October, the two candidates had already raised a total of nearly $13 million and spent more than $11 million, with Vargas having a slight edge, according to federal campaign finance filings.