Netradio Public NewsRoom

Bill would ban hallucinogenic herb (30-JAN-08)
The herb known as Salvia would be made illegal if bill passes.

Gas tax would help road construction funding (30-JAN-08)
Senator Deb Fisher of Valentine says it would add a 5 percent tax on motor vehicle fuels at the wholesale level.

Nelson weighs in on stimulus package (30-JAN-08)
Senator Ben Nelson supports tax rebates and extending unemployment insurance.

Obama campaign sets up shop in Omaha (30-JAN-08)
Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama has campaign representatives in Nebraska.

Film production bill stalled (30-JAN-08)
The bill would offer movie makers subsidies up to 25 percent of their production costs for filming in Nebraska.

Erdman wants to help young farmers get started (29-JAN-08)
Bayard Senator and Agriculture Committee Chairman Phil Erdman wants to exempt young farmers from some property taxes for up to three years.

Top scoring Nebraska students could have incentive to stay in state (29-JAN-08)
College bound students who test well in the ACT would be given $2,000 scholarships to go to a college in Nebraska.

Discipline bill killed (29-JAN-08)
A bill to make disciplinary actions against police and teachers failed in the Legislature.

Bill would publicize disciplinary actions (28-JAN-08)
The bill is sponsored by Omaha Senator Ernie Chambers, who says he's responding to constituent complaints about the behavior of law enforcement and school personnel.

Foster care system improving, report says (28-JAN-08)
A new report by the State Foster Care Review Board finds that more than 37 percent of children studied entered the system because their parents used meth.

35 years after Roe, abortion opponents say issue is important in 2008 race (28-JAN-08)
Opponents of abortion gathered at the State Capitol Saturday for the annual Walk for Life. Many said they're undecided about whom to support for President, but they'll vote for someone who opposes abortion.

Increasing law firms' diversity goal of new initiative (28-JAN-08)
In Nebraska, only a little more than 3 percent of practicing attorneys are non-white. Officials with State Bar Association say that's a slight improvement over six years ago, but still far behind representing the state's demographics.

Strong crop prices soften blow of economic slowdown (28-JAN-08)
Concerns about the sluggish economy are prompting worries about a possible recession as the mortgage crisis deepens and energy costs continue to rise.

Heavican says courts overloaded with cases (25-JAN-08)
Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Mike Heavican said he wanted to talk about what is often the least understood branch of state government.

Bill would restrict NRDs' ability to seize land (25-JAN-08)
The bill sponsored by Elkhorn Senator Dwite Pedersen would affect NRDs, the local entities charged with tasks like flood control and water quality protection.

Tighter gun regulations subject of hearing (25-JAN-08)
The proposal by Omaha Senator Brad Ashford would require gun owners to report thefts of guns within 48 hours.

Lawsuit challenges Republican River compliance law (25-JAN-08)
The lawsuit before Lancaster County District Court Judge Paul Merritt focuses on LB 701, a law passed last year that gave new taxing authority to Republican River natural resources districts.

Hagel has doubts about stimulus bill (24-JAN-08)
Senator Chuck Hagel says he supports efforts to boost the national economy like cutting the interest rate charged to banks. But he says handing out rebates to workers could further inflate the national debt without doing much to help the economy.

Lawmakers debate increasing marijuana penalties (24-JAN-08)
Senator Russ Karpisek of Wilber wants to increase penalties for possessing less than an ounce from the current 100 dollar fine to a five hundred dollar fine, with the possibility of up to 90 days in jail, the same as for minors in possession of alcohol.

Harsher speeding penalties proposed (24-JAN-08)
The bill by Omaha Senator Pete Pirsch would impose fines of 300 dollars and a loss of four points for speeding more than 35 miles an hour above the limit.

More disclosure of jailhouse informants' deals needed under bill (23-JAN-08)
Nebraska law already requires prosecutors to disclose deals made for the testimony of people in custody. The bill debated Wednesday would expand that requirement to deals made with someone who is detained for questioning, whether they were in jail or not.

Nelson calls for stimulus plan as recession threat looms (23-JAN-08)
U.S. Senator Ben Nelson says the nation's economy needs a boost from the federal government, even if it requires going deeper in debt.

Bill would recriminalize marijuana possession (23-JAN-08)
Currently only an infraction, the penalty for possession of less than an ounce could become much stricter.

State cemetery funds embezzled, auditor says (22-JAN-08)
State Auditor Mike Foley says Todd terMaat, Wyuka Cemetery's accountant until last Friday, allegedly embezzled more than 42 thousand dollars.

Program conserves land for bird habitat (22-JAN-08)
More than 22-thousand acres will be preserved for prairie chickens and upland game birds like pheasants and quail to use for nesting and raising young.

Volunteering on MLK Day (22-JAN-08)
While many people take a holiday on Martin Luther King, Jr Day, some youth in Omaha took the day "on."

Smith seeks re-election in 3rd District (22-JAN-08)
The Nebraska Republican wants a 2nd term in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Feedlot reporting rules could change (22-JAN-08)
The proposal is aimed at getting rules for feedlots in compliance with several pieces of legislation passed by the state in recent years.

Homestead group to gather stories of Great Plains settlement (22-JAN-08)
Jerry Davidson, facilitator of the Homestead Congress, says that while residents of the Great Plains are familiar with the role of homesteaders in developing America, those stories are less known outside the Midwest.

Bill would exempt rural areas from federal water rules (21-JAN-08)
Federal law requires public water supplies to periodically test for dozens of contaminants, including naturally occurring metals like arsenic and uranium, as well as many chemicals used in agricultural products.

Fremont pork plant discontinues harmful technique (18-JAN-08)
The plant in northeast Nebraska was using a technique similar to one used at plants in Minnesota and Indiana, where several employees reported unexplained neurological symptoms.

Rural economy continues to do well (18-JAN-08)
In Nebraska the main street index rose slightly in December, as the result of higher grain prices, equipment purchases, reduction in debt and increased savings.

Filmmakers would receive tax incentives under bill (18-JAN-08)
Lincoln Senator Danielle Nantkes says 37 other states already give some kind of incentive to filmmakers.

U.S. Forest Service holds hearings on ATVs (18-JAN-08)
The Forest Service is taking comment on whether off-road vehicles access should be restricted.

State ombudsman could accept local prison complaints (17-JAN-08)
The state Ombudsman's office could handle complaints about county or city jails, or mental health treatment facilities that are not run by the state, under the legislation.

Democrats find candidate for Hagel's Senate seat (17-JAN-08)
With the primary less than four months away, Larry Marvin of Fremont is the first to announce he'll run for the Democratic nomination.

Uranium mine expansion sought in Panhandle (17-JAN-08)
Yesterday's public hearing at Chadron State College came after Crow Butte Resources of Lakewood, Colorado requested permission to expand its current uranium mine near Crawford by an additional 2000 acres.

Lawmakers debate school bullying bill (16-JAN-08)
The bill defines bullying as an ongoing pattern of physical, verbal or electronic abuse on school grounds or vehicles, or at school sponsored activities or athletic events.

Safe haven bill advances in Legislature (16-JAN-08)
This year's proposal was already a scaled-back from last year's, which would have allowed babies to be dropped off at fire stations as well.

Child poverty on the rise, despite high job rate (15-JAN-08)
Nebraska's child poverty rate increased 50 percent between 2000 and 2005, with a total of 15 percent living at or below the federal poverty level. That's according to Kids Count in Nebraska, a yearly report by the non-profit group Voices for Children.

Targeting violence subject of Omaha conference (15-JAN-08)
People who are likely to turn violent can be identified before they do so. That's according to Marilyn Knight. She's the president and CEO of the Incident Management Team and lectures widely on workplace violence prevention.

Property tax cuts proposed in governor's address (15-JAN-08)
The governor had previously unveiled some of his proposals, like those for expanded corporate tax incentives and denying illegal immigrants benefits. But, some of them were new, including expanding a property tax relief credit program begun last year.

Heineman takes on immigration in address (15-JAN-08)
Governor Dave Heineman had previously said he wants the Legislature to prohibit welfare and other benefits for illegal immigrants. He gave the issue additional prominence by including it in his state of the speech.

Independence of state energy agency proposed (14-JAN-08)
Fullerton Senator Annette Dubas wants to convert the Nebraska Energy Office to an autonomous state agency called the Nebraska Office of Energy Independence.

Helmet repeal debate begins (14-JAN-08)
Proposal would eliminate mandatory helmet use for riders 21 and older.

Super Advantage change possible (14-JAN-08)
The proposal uses average wages to trigger tax incentives, but that could put some counties at a disadvantage.

Chemist, Artist explore chemistry in the movies (12-JAN-08)
Their list of movies with chemistry themes contains over a thousand titles

Super Advantage tax incentives proposed (11-JAN-08)
Companies could get more tax incentives to locate and bring jobs to Nebraska.

Program helps college grads buy cattle (14-JAN-08)
A new program at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is designed to help graduates get a head start on supporting themselves as ranchers in rural Nebraska.

Banks helping immigrants send money home (14-JAN-08)
Immigrants working in the United States sent 45-billion dollars to Caribbean and Latin American countries in 2006. But despite the volume of those transactions, few banks are in the business of helping immigrants make the transfers, known as remittances.

Dam construction considered on lower Platte (10-JAN-08)
Concerns about the availability of water for endangered birds and fish have created tension in recent months between conservation officials, and local leaders who would like to see the door left open to additional development.

Bill requires full-time state officers to not have outside work (10-JAN-08)
The state's constitutional officers would be required to spend full time at their duties, prohibited from having other employment, and required to put their investment and ownership interests in a business entity over which they have no control during their time in office.

Search for Parkinson's vaccine underway at UNMC (09-JAN-08)
Researchers in Omaha say they're a step closer to finding a vaccine for Parkinson's disease.

Legislative session begins with bill introductions (09-JAN-08)
The Nebraska Legislature opened its 2008 session Wednesday with a combination of formality and glad-handling that foreshadowed things to come.

Donations still being accepted for Von Maur victims' fund (09-JAN-08)
A fund for victims of the last month's shooting spree at an Omaha mall has surpassed $1 million.

Attorney general promotes ban on hallucinogenic herb (08-JAN-08)
The herb called salvia divinorum is native to parts of Mexico.

Death penalty opponents pledge renewed effort (07-JAN-08)
Nebraskans Against the Death Penalty brings police officer, victim's relative to speak against capital punishment.

Roads, community corrections among expected hot topics (04-JAN-08)
Speaker Mike Flood predicts hot issues for upcoming session.

Law would deny illegal immigrants benefits (04-JAN-08)
Measure would duplicate federal law, but officials insist it's more than symbolic.

Ag survey looks at rising farm income (07-JAN-08)
Strong commodity prices and good growing conditions have meant rising income for many Nebraska farmers last year.

EPA looks at exempting Ag from some air quality rules (04-JAN-08)
The proposal by the US Environmental Protection Agency would exempt livestock operators from certain federal air quality laws that require them to report releases of harmful chemicals found in animal waste.

ATVs could be banned on large swaths of National Forest land (03-JAN-08)
Concerns about erosion and disruption to wildlife and their habitat are prompting officials to consider restricting the use of ATVs and similar vehicles on federal forest lands around the country.

Smoking ban set for early debate (03-JAN-08)
Supporters will try to eliminate local option; if bill fails, initiative is likely.

Nebraska Democrats plan Iowa-style caucuses (02-JAN-08)
Idea is to vote before nomination is decided and try to attract candidates' attention.

Growing corn with less water key to ethanol success (26-DEC-07)
Nebraska produces about a billion gallons of ethanol a year, and that number's expected to double. At the same time, Nebraska is struggling with water shortages in the Republican and Platte Rivers, and is coming out of a lengthy drought.

Hypertension study targets rural women (31-DEC-07)
About 30 million Americans suffer from pre-hypertension, or blood pressure that is too high. And researchers have found that women living in rural areas are more likely to be diagnosed with the condition.

Art exhibit pays homage to small family farms (02-JAN-08)
The artist Virginia Vaughan moved to her husband's 200 acre farm on the northern edge of Austin, Texas about three decades ago. She decided to document her last year on the farm with a series of 365 impressionist paintings.

Utility bill help more limited this year (24-DEC-07)
As temperatures fall and utility bills go up, low-income households across the state may appeal to the government for help. But the amount of state assistance available this year is down by more than half.

Farm income bolstering regional economy (21-DEC-07)
Rural towns and cities in the Midwest are faring relatively well, despite a sluggish national economy. That's according to Ernie Goss, an economist at Creighton University in Omaha.

Sudanese in Omaha host refugee Christmas (21-DEC-07)
Omaha has an estimated 85-hundred Sudanese refugees, forced to flee their homes in the northeast African country because of a 25-year civil war and the recent violence in the western Darfur region. Malakal Goak with Lutheran Refugee Services in Omaha says Christmas is an important tradition for Sudanese Christians, such as himself.

New gas tax proposed for road construction (21-DEC-07)
Senator Deb Fischer of Valentine suggests taxing the wholesale price of gas.

Juvenile Crime (26-DEC-07)
Can Nebraska's juvenile justice system help provent future shootings?

Learning Initiative Preview (01-JAN-08)
High school students in O'Neil recieve laptop computers this semester.

Von Maur reopens after Omaha mall shootings (20-DEC-07)
Hundreds of people crowded outside Von Maur waiting for its doors to open. A line of about 50 employees holding hands greeted the shoppers before they parted to let them in.

Nebraska will likely pay big for Republican River water (20-DEC-07)
After years of waiting for Nebraska to meet the terms of the compact, Kansas officials are now asking the state to halt irrigation across large swaths of southwest Nebraska, and pay tens of millions of dollars in monetary damages.

Hagel: Air service subsidies worthwhile (20-DEC-07)
While Congress has agreed to continue funding through February, Senator Chuck Hagel says the Bush administration has proposed eliminating all the funding for the Essential Air Service program nationwide.

DIY handmade crafts popular in Nebraska (20-DEC-07)
A renaissance is occurring within the world of crafts. The domestic arts, once considered the work of crocheting grandmothers, are being reclaimed by women in their 20s and 30s.

Ag Census going to 60,000 Nebraska farmers this week (28-DEC-07)
Thousands of Nebraska farmers will soon be asked to fill out a national survey from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Alternative oil seeds gaining popularity (24-DEC-07)
Nebraska oil seed producers are finding new opportunities since the government changed regulations on labeling trans fats.

Potato pests in Canada could mean higher US demand (27-DEC-07)
A potato pest in Canada could increase demand for seed potatoes from the United States.

New Year's ice storm anniversary (31-DEC-07)
Today marks the one-year anniversary of an ice storm that left forty-two thousand Nebraskans without power.

Kansas wants Nebraska to cut water use (19-DEC-07)
If water officials in Kansas have their way, irrigation wells would be shut off on 500-thousand acres of southwest Nebraska's Republican River basin.

Group wants budget surplus for teacher raises (19-DEC-07)
The latest figures project the State of Nebraska will have a budget surplus of more than $540 Million. NSEA Communications Director Karen Kilgarin says some of it should be used to create an education trust fund.

Nelson: Shift troops from Iraq to Afghanistan (19-DEC-07)
U.S. Senator Ben Nelson says the current level of about 160 thousand troops in Iraq is unsustainable. At the same time, Nelson says more troops might be needed elsewhere.

Senator wants to use motor-vehicle taxes for roads (18-DEC-07)
With gas tax revenues flat and construction costs increasing at double digit rates, the state Department of Roads projects that shortfall at 48 million dollars.

Farmers paying more for health care (18-DEC-07)
More than a third of farm families surveyed in a new national report purchased health coverage on the individual market. On average, those families spent more than 43-hundred-dollars more for health care per year than those covered by an off-farm employer's policy.

Changes sought for juvenile justice, mental health care services (18-DEC-07)
Voices for Children calls for a sustainable positive change.

Gun law tightening to be proposed (28-DEC-07)
Omaha senator to seek gun locks, trigger locks, and theft notification requirements.

Eagle viewing sites open soon (28-DEC-07)
Eagles like to gather just below hydro-electric power plants, where people can watch them feed.

Battery jumping safety tips (27-DEC-07)
Batteries lose power easier in winter, but jump starting can be dangerous.

Vitamin D study finds cancer prevention link (26-DEC-07)
A study at Creighton University finds a direct link between vitamin D and cancer prevention

VA office celebrates 100th anniversary (25-DEC-07)
The Hot Springs VA medical center in South Dakota serves Nebrakans, and sometimes they serve back.

School consolidation study (25-DEC-07)
Schools in Scotts Bluff counties are exploring the idea of merging into one.

Von Maur to reopen Thursday (17-DEC-07)
The store plans to hold a brief ceremony for the victims of the December 5th shooting.

Concealed carry law one year old (27-DEC-07)
Initial shortage of trainers; restrictions in law cited for less-than-anticipated usage.

Police face challenges serving people who don't speak English (17-DEC-07)
Nebraska Police Departments are facing the tough challenge of serving people in their communities who don't speak English.

Free lead testing brings in children's toys (14-DEC-07)
Lincoln resident Ying Li came with her five-year old son Brenton and a pile of metal airplanes and plastic dinosaurs.

High corn prices spells bad news for ethanol (17-DEC-07)
Corn prices are up and for Nebraska corn growers, that's great news. For the state's ethanol industry, it's not so great.

Legislature hears State Fair proposals (14-DEC-07)
Officials with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln want to move the fair to make way for a research park. That idea has mostly been opposed by State Fair Board members.

Concerned parents bring toys to Lincoln lead screening (17-DEC-07)
Mike and Amy Tinius of Lincoln brought their three-year-old daughter Nicole, holding a colorful wooden bracelet and a necklace made of heart-shaped beads.

Record-breaking farm income projected (14-DEC-07)
The boost in farm income across the country is the result of high commodity prices.

Lobbyist waiting period proposed (12-DEC-07)
Elected officials would have to wait two years after leaving office before registering as a lobbyist, under the proposal by Lincoln Senator Bill Avery.

Lobbyist waiting period proposed (19-DEC-07)
Elected officials would have to wait two years after leaving office before registering as a lobbyist, under the proposal by Lincoln Senator Bill Avery.

Humboldt sees severe tree damage (13-DEC-07)
The weight of the ice on branches is too much for many trees to take. Limbs are falling on power lines and scarring the landscape.

Safety urged when cleaning up storm damage (13-DEC-07)
Forestry officials are urging homeowners to take caution when dealing with storm-damaged trees.

NJ vote on death penalty hailed in Nebraska (13-DEC-07)
The New Jersey Assembly approved a bill that would replace that state's death penalty with life in prison without parole. That move has provided hope to death penalty opponents in Nebraska.

Power outages continue in southeast Nebraska (12-DEC-07)
Nebraska Public Power District crews will be working all night to get power back to the towns of DuBois and Barada.

Swift raids in Grand Island, one year later (12-DEC-07)
One year ago, immigration officials raided the Swift and Company meatpacking plant in Grand Island, arresting 261 suspected illegal immigrants.

Boys Town changes name, again (12-DEC-07)
The organization was known as "Boys Town" for more than 70 years before changing its name to "Girls and Boys Town" in 2000. But now, the organization is going back to its former moniker.

I-80 corridor web survey (24-DEC-07)
Residents in 6 southeast Nebraska counties are being asked for input to help develop a regional plan.

Southeast Nebraska hit hardest by ice storms (11-DEC-07)
Richardson and Nemaha counties have been hard hit by a storm that slickened roads and closed schools across the state.

Oil refinery could impact northeast Nebraska (11-DEC-07)
The proposed oil refinery would be in Union County, South Dakota, about eight miles from the northeast Nebraska town of Newcastle.

Rodriguez might stay in Mexico during trial (11-DEC-07)
It's not known yet whether 13-year-old Fernando Rodriguez will be allowed to testify against his former teacher, 25-year-old Kelsey Peterson. Attorneys for Rodriguez are urging the U.S. attorney's office to bring the boy back to Nebraska.

Westroads victims laid to rest (10-DEC-07)
Hundreds of people crowded into Saint Leo Catholic Church on Monday morning to say farewell to 53-year-old Dianne Trent. Her nieces and nephews read a series of prayers for her.

Strains exposed in Omaha police and community relations (11-DEC-07)
Minority groups want more respect and trust. OPD says that works both ways.

911 tapes offer horrific glimpse into shooting (07-DEC-07)
In many calls, 911 dispatchers can be heard trying to coax potentially life-saving information from frightened callers hiding inside the mall.

Transplant patients fare better when planning ahead (07-DEC-07)
Researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center found that patients who do not plan for the possibility of dying after a risky transplant were twice as likely to die.

Dispatchers field hundreds of calls after Westroads shooting (07-DEC-07)
In newly released tapes, hundreds of callers both inside and outside Westroads Mall report the shootings to 911 dispatchers.

911 tapes show dispatchers trying to hone in on shooter's location (07-DEC-07)
Newly released 9-1-1 tapes give a horrific glimpse into the moments following Wednesday's shooting at Omaha's Westroads Mall.

Local Christmas trees available at more than 100 Nebraska farms (10-DEC-07)
There are lots of places to buy Christmas trees this time of year. But many Nebraska tree farmers are hoping Nebraskans will purchase trees grown right here.

Prayer services held at church near Westroads (07-DEC-07)
Hundreds of people crowded into a large auditorium at Saint Leo Catholic Church - just blocks away from the Westroads mall.

Omaha reels from shock of shootings (06-DEC-07)
Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey appeared emotional as he addressed reporters Wednesday morning. He says the city is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic shootings, and called the event "evil" and "an ugly act of cowardice."

Winter weather visits Nebraska (06-DEC-07)
Expect more rain, snow, and sleet heading into the weekend.

Violence hard to predict in troubled teens (06-DEC-07)
It's rare even for teens with ongoing mental health problems to commit violence on the scale of Wednesday's mass shootings.

Gunman was state ward for several years (06-DEC-07)
Robert Hawkins lived away from home, in residential treatment programs and foster care, from 2002 through 2005.

Nearby shoppers describe scene at Westroads (06-DEC-07)
Shoppers ran from the mall and many were stranded, unable to get to their cars. Some headed to surrounding stores, whose own customers had fled.

Church leaders reach out after Omaha slayings (06-DEC-07)
Religious leaders say now is the time to listen and offer words of comfort to the Omaha community.

Westroads shootings recall past violence in Nebraska (06-DEC-07)
Before yesterday, the most recent mass killings most people could remember in Nebraska were those committed almost 50 years ago by Charley Starkweather.

Omaha slayings bring back solemn memories for Norfolk (06-DEC-07)
Norfolk Mayor Gordon Adams knows firsthand what it feels like to lose several members of a community in one sudden, horrible event.

Bystanders describe confusion, fear after Omaha shooting (06-DEC-07)
Nearby store owners describe the scene at Omaha's Westroads Mall yesterday.

Faith community responds to mall slayings (06-DEC-07)
Religious leaders in Omaha say their congregations are in shock after yesterday's shootings.

UNO professor examines Westroads shooting (06-DEC-07)
A UNO criminology expert says the Westroads shootings are a different phenomenon from the ongoing problem of gun violence in Omaha.

Norfolk looks back on multiple slayings five years ago (06-DEC-07)
Norfolk Mayor Gordon Adams says the city had to work through tremendous grief in the aftermath a multiple murder in 2002.

Advocacy group charges state with neglect of disabled people (05-DEC-07)
The report by Nebraska Advocacy Services speaks of residents being left in their own urine and feces and in some instances being abused by staff.

Nebraska students' performance lags behind Canada (05-DEC-07)
When it comes to the percentage of citizens getting associates and bachelors degrees, Nebraska is ahead of the national average. But the state is still behind countries like Canada in educational attainment.

Nine dead in Omaha mall shooting, including gunman (05-DEC-07)
A law enforcement official speaking on the condition of anonymity has identified the gunman in a deadly mall shooting today as Robert Hawkins of Bellevue.

North Platte latest state fair candidate (04-DEC-07)
Government and business leaders gathered in North Platte's City Hall on Tuesday afternoon to tout their community as the ideal site for the fair.

Lincoln students help make school bullying film (04-DEC-07)
Eighth-graders at Lincoln's Irving Middle have spent the past six weeks helping Australian filmmaker Chris Faull write and film a short feature about bullying in the classroom.

DHHS failed to collect millions in services (03-DEC-07)
State Auditor Mike Foley's report involves services provided to people with developmental disabilities in the state's Regional Centers, the Beatrice State Developmental Center, and community programs.

Pelini named head coach (03-DEC-07)
LSU defensive coordinator Bo Pelini is taking over as Nebraska's new head football coach.

Water conservation focus of Farm Bureau meeting (03-DEC-07)
Farmers and ranchers from around the state are gathering in Kearney this week to discuss water issues at the Nebraska Farm Bureau's annual conference.

USDA official: Senate Farm Bill nutrition programs too expensive (30-NOV-07)
Anti-hunger groups say many people's needs aren't being met in Nebraska, despite more than $100 million in food stamp aid coming to the state each year.

White House official says food aid proposal too costly (30-NOV-07)
Nancy Montanez-Johner, a U.S. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary working on food and nutrition issues, says the amount of nutrition funding in the Farm Bill currently before the U.S. Senate is not sustainable in the long-term.

Women face workplace leadership hurdles (03-DEC-07)
Nebraska ranks third in the country for the rate of women in the workplace, but the state lags behind in 49th place for women occupying managerial or leadership roles.

Children's behavioral health report delayed (03-DEC-07)
A task force on children's behavioral health was supposed to report to the Legislature and the governor Tuesday on issues including how best to help children in need of behavioral health and substance abuse services.

Nebraskan with HIV says problem isn't going away (30-NOV-07)
Saturday is World AIDS Day. The government estimates that over a million Americans have HIV or AIDS, though about a quarter of them don't know it. In the last two decades nearly two-thousand Nebraskans were diagnosed HIV positive, and a third of them have since died. Avishay Artsy spoke with one Nebraska man who refuses to become another victim of AIDS.

Rural recording studio is inspiring, relaxing (30-NOV-07)
It might be the last thing you'd expect to find on a family farm but a farm just outside the Northeastern Nebraska town of Wisner is home to a high tech recording studio.

Cattlemen push for control of beef check-off (29-NOV-07)
Increasing the check-off fee charged to beef producers was a key issue discussed this week by the Nebraska Cattlemen.

Nebraskans less obese than the average American (29-NOV-07)
Over a third of Americans age 20 and older are obese. That's compared to nearly one in four Nebraskans.

Planned Parenthood national head urges political action in 2008 (29-NOV-07)
Planned Parenthood National President Cecile Richards urged students to get involved in the 2008 election.

Kearney residents hope to house State Fair (27-NOV-07)
Roger Jasnoch, president of the Kearney Chamber of Commerce, says public and private sector officials there are considering making a pitch for the fair.

Omaha researcher played role in stem cell study (28-NOV-07)
Dr. Warren Sanger, a geneticist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, was a co-author on a study showing how embryonic stem cells can be made from skin cells.

Report on child deaths issued for 2004 (28-NOV-07)
The report shows that the number of deaths of children from birth to age 17 has remained stable in recent years.

Report: 42 Nebraska bird species at risk (28-NOV-07)
42 Nebraska bird species made a list of at-risk species published by two leading national bird groups.

Groups weighs future of Lower Platte (27-NOV-07)
Lower Platte water users worry endangered species concerns will threaten the water supply available for economic development.

Europe looks at banning certain GMO corn seeds (26-NOV-07)
About 85 percent of the corn grown in Nebraska is genetically modified. European Union officials have proposed banning certain types of GMO corn seeds in Europe.

UNL grad views devastation in Bangladesh (26-NOV-07)
Several organizations are collecting funds to help those still recovering from the cyclone that killed more than 3,000 people and displaced millions more in Bangladesh.

Holiday expectations and stress (26-NOV-07)
Now that Thanksgiving is in the rear view mirror, it's full speed ahead into Christmas, Hannukah, and the New Year.

Clay Anderson getting down to earth (21-NOV-07)
Rehab and reflections follow five months in space.

Gas prices near record for Thanksgiving weekend (21-NOV-07)
Industry observers say fuel costs will probably go up before they come down, and their longer-term future is cloudy.

Medicare forums exam reimbursement concerns (26-NOV-07)
The AARP has scheduled free public forums on Medicare funding in Grand Island on Thursday and in Lincoln and Omaha on Friday.

UNO economists examining immigration (26-NOV-07)
Researchers at UNO are trying to better understand how immigration affects the state's economy.

Nebraska retailers expect strong shopping season (23-NOV-07)
A strong Ag economy should make for a solid holiday shopping season around the state this year.

Nebraska's deer season finishes strong (23-NOV-07)
Hunting season means extra cash for many small Nebraska communities.

Bruning drops out of Senate race (21-NOV-07)
Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning has dropped out of the race for Senate. Bruning is throwing his support behind former U-S Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns.

Committee's closed meetings policy questioned (20-NOV-07)
The Performance Audit Committee has met in closed session for their last eight meetings, dating back to July 2006, meaning the meeting was closed to both the public and the press.

Farmers worry about farm bill's slow progress (20-NOV-07)
The Senate failed to get to a vote on its version of the Farm Bill before leaving for Thanksgiving break last week. That has some farmers wondering how to plan for next year's planting season.

Opening of Norfolk midwife center put on hold (19-NOV-07)
Nebraska law requires certified nurse midwives to be registered nurses with additional training, and to have an agreement with a collaborating doctor in order to practice.

Plans for UNL research park unveiled (19-NOV-07)
University officials want the State Fair moved to another location in Lincoln so the University can turn the 251-acre fairgrounds into a research park.

Heineman: Climate change not a priority (19-NOV-07)
Nebraska was among the three states not signing off on an agreement to set goals for tracking and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Lead cleanups underway in Omaha (19-NOV-07)
The EPA has cleaned up 4,000 residential sites in Omaha, and has measured a decline in childhood blood lead levels, from 9.1 percent in 2000 to 3.9 percent in 2006. But an environmental activist says she fears the soil cleanups could create a false sense of security.

Nebraska opts out of carbon emissions pact (16-NOV-07)
The resolution calls for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases that most scientists say contribute to global warming. Of the association's 12 member states, only Nebraska, North Dakota and Missouri declined to sign.

Outlook for rural economy improves (16-NOV-07)
The Rural Mainstreet Index's outlook has improved for the first time since August, reflecting higher grain prices being paid to farmers.

The journey that saved Curious George (17-NOV-07)
The little monkey from children's literature had a narrow escape as his creators fled the Nazi invasion of Paris

Consultants : Fixing up state fair less costly than moving it (15-NOV-07)
Consultants said building an ideal State Fair would cost $175 million. Thursday, they said it would cost $31 million to adapt the existing State Fairgrounds to approach that ideal.

Seniors seek Medicare enrollment aid (15-NOV-07)
Harriet Robinson is one of 267-thousand Medicare beneficiaries in Nebraska who qualify for Part D, the federally subsidized prescription drug insurance program.

Retired educators mentoring young Chadron teachers (15-NOV-07)
The program beginning this semester pairs education majors with former school administrators who help oversee the students' semester of student teaching.

Depicting the Great Plains, in film (15-NOV-07)
From "Boys Town" to "Boys Don't Cry," movies set in Nebraska can range from funny to terrifying, and show very different images of our state.

Wells seen as water shortage solution (14-NOV-07)
Nebraska's legal problems with Kansas are largely due to heavy pumping of water that's connected to the river underground. But paradoxically, it looks like more pumping might actually be part of the solution.

Helping farmers survive urban sprawl (14-NOV-07)
Farms and ranches in metropolitan areas are increasingly threatened by population growth and the expansion of cities into rural areas.

Affirmative action ban proposed (14-NOV-07)
The initiative is modeled on similar efforts to prohibit affirmative action programs that have passed in California, Washington State and Michigan.

Virology grant awarded to UNL (13-NOV-07)
UNL Virology Professor Peter Angeletti says translating scientific knowledge about viruses into terms lay people can understand could have important health benefits.

Omaha mayor Mike Fahey won't run for Senate (13-NOV-07)
In his announcement Tuesday, the Omaha mayor said he wants to remain focused on issues facing the state's largest city.

Bruning to address Minutemen group (13-NOV-07)
The Minutemen Civil Defense Corps is best known for its armed patrols on the U.S.-Mexican border to apprehend those trying to cross into the country illegally.

La Nina could spell a cold winter (12-NOV-07)
Nebraskans are used to changeable weather, and it looks like big temperature swings will be the theme this winter.

Geriatrics center coming to Omaha (12-NOV-07)
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents has approved the construction of a geriatrics center on the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus in Omaha.

Hagel: U.S. needs to work with Musharraf (09-NOV-07)
Hagel says the United States needs to work with Pakistan's president and head of the Army, General Pervez Musharraf.

Hagel: No glory in war (12-NOV-07)
Hagel said Americans should learn from the experiences of veterans, who know the horrors of war firsthand. Hagel also spoke 25 years ago at the groundbreaking of the Vietnam Memorial.

Roads funding sees budget crunch (09-NOV-07)
The state could increase the funds available for roads, but that could involve politically unpopular measures like increasing the gas or property taxes, or diverting money from elsewhere.

Staph infection widespread, but easily treatable (09-NOV-07)
A study by Nebraska Medical Center physicians shows that while MRSA is thriving in Nebraska, most patients have relatively mild skin and soft tissue infections that can be treated fairly easily.

Hagel: Iran should be handled with diplomacy (08-NOV-07)
Sen. Chuck Hagel has long argued that instead of just threatening to punish Iran for its nuclear program, the United States should negotiate directly with that nation.

Chadron lockdown hasn't changed community (09-NOV-07)
Last month five escaped prisoners were spotted in Chadron, and the city was locked down. Residents seem to agree that the town hasn't changed. But law enforcement and community leaders are using the lockdown as an opportunity to plan for other possible emergencies.

Omaha meeting focuses on needs of homeless (08-NOV-07)
One homeless advocate says a more long-term solution to prevent homelessness would involve focusing on affordable housing and increasing services for those struggling with mental illness and substance abuse.

UNL physicist solves cosmic rays mystery (08-NOV-07)
UNL physicist Greg Snow and an international team of more than 350 scientists have been looking for the source of cosmic rays that carry the greatest amount of energy.

Economist worried about weak dollar and high gas (08-NOV-07)
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss warns of serious consequences unless federal interest rates are lowered or oil consumption is cut.

Forensic science students solve crimes at "Murder House" (07-NOV-07)
Students at Nebraska Wesleyan use forensic science to solve murder mysteries. That's in the new NET Television documentary "Murder House." NET Radio's Avishay Artsy spoke with writer and producer Bill Kelly about the making of "Murder House" and the science behind crime scene investigations.

Ashland students watch Anderson's landing (07-NOV-07)
Sixth graders from Ashland-Greenwood Middle School watched as the Ashland native landed in Florida aboard the space shuttle Discovery.

Historic ranch auctions for over $8 million (07-NOV-07)
The Lee family has held the Holt County ranch, hailed as one of the finest in Nebraska, for five generations.

Hay shortages creates possibilities for Nebraska producers (07-NOV-07)
Extreme drought has hampered the hay crop in many parts of the country this year, especially the southeastern U.S.

Nelson pushes for ethanol mandate in Farm Bill (07-NOV-07)
Senator Ben Nelson wants to put a proposal to expand ethanol mandates to 36 billion gallons by 2022 into the Farm Bill, which is currently being debated on the Senate floor.

Leftover medication disposal guidelines changed (06-NOV-07)
It used to be the recommended method for getting rid of excess medication was to flush it down the toilet.

Fewer Nebraska high schoolers going on to college (06-NOV-07)
While graduation rates have improved, State Education Commissioner Doug Christensen says Nebraska has slipped from first in the nation for college attendance to 13th.

Low lead levels still dangerous, study finds (05-NOV-07)
Omaha has spent the past decade treating higher-than-average lead levels as a result of lead paint in older homes and soil contamination from a lead refinery.

Hagel calls for measured response to Pakistan (05-NOV-07)
Senator Hagel said Pakistan has been a critical ally to the U.S. in the fight against terrorism.

Beetle threatens state's ash trees (02-NOV-07)
The emerald ash borer hasn't been detected here yet, but a state forester says it could destroy nearly all of Nebraska's ash trees.

State fair meeting closed to public (02-NOV-07)
The chairman of the Legislature's Agricultural Committee said he wanted the session closed because the consultant's report was a "work in progress."

Childhood obesity tool for healthcare providers (02-NOV-07)
The first of its kind program is designed to help kids develope healthy eating and excersise habits.

Turning to goats to weed out invasive plants (01-NOV-07)
U.S. Department of Agriculture officials say they're making plans to offer some Nebraska landowners financial help with opening up cattle ranches to grazing by goats as part of a larger plan to control invasive plants.

Native American speaker calls for rethinking education (01-NOV-07)
Speaking at a news conference at Nebraska's ninth annual Native American Education Conference at Wayne State College, a noted American Indian educator said adults who work with children are not highly valued in American culture.

Young farmers optimistic about ag economy (01-NOV-07)
In a recent survey of mostly young and middle-aged Nebraskans from the Ag-industry, respondents overwhelmingly said they expect agricultural production to become increasingly concentrated.

Economic report warns of possible recession (01-NOV-07)
The warning is based on a survey of supply managers and business leaders of conditions in a nine-state region that includes Nebraska.

Report charts state's population changes (01-NOV-07)
Many of Nebraska's rural counties are losing their population, and figures compiled by University of Nebraska-Omaha researchers dating back to 1860 show just how much.

Energy efficiency promoted with light bulb discounts (31-OCT-07)
A new campaign by the Nebraska Public Power District is offering coupons to customers in dozens of communities to help with the cost of purchasing compact fluorescent lamps, or CFLs.

Activists say G.I. raid split Hispanic families (31-OCT-07)
Emotional testimonials were given about last December's raid at Grand Island's Swift meatpacking plant, when 261 suspected illegal immigrants were arrested.

Nelson calls for Iraq benchmark progress (30-OCT-07)
The American security firm Blackwater is on the hot seat following the shooting of 17 Iraqis in September. Sen. Ben Nelson says that's allowed the Iraqi government to downplay its failure to meet the 18 benchmarks for success.

High school dropouts costly to state (30-OCT-07)
Students who dropped out of high school and failed to graduate this past spring will cost the state $1.3 billion over their lifetimes.

Tyson chair warns of beef plants' overcapacity (30-OCT-07)
When asked about the company's plants in Nebraska, John Tyson warned that there is overcapacity in the beef packing industry in the United States.

Nebraskan plays basketball in Lebanon (30-OCT-07)
A North Platte native has been playing professional basketball around the world. Joe Vogel now lives in Beirut and plays for Lebanon's national basketball team.

Public input sought for I-80 corridor study (29-OCT-07)
The Nebraska Innovation Zone Commission has hired a team of consultants to look at population trends in the area known as the I-80 corridor.

State fair meeting likely closed to public (29-OCT-07)
Agriculture Committee Chairman Senator Phil Erdman of Bayard says he wants to close the meeting to ensure the information that's eventually released is accurate.

UNL looks at "Pentagon Papers" and whistleblowers (29-OCT-07)
The 7,000-page U.S. government report was leaked to the New York Times in 1971 by Daniel Ellsberg, a former State Department official.

Smoking ban angers Fremont public housing residents (26-OCT-07)
Public housing officials in the eastern Nebraska community are banning smoking for new residents of the city's two apartment towers beginning November 1st.

Forecasting board raises revenue estimate (26-OCT-07)
Board members talked about high grain prices and nearly 30 percent projected rise in farm income. But they also talked about a drop in home construction due to the mortgage crisis.

Democratic candidates outraise GOP in state (26-OCT-07)
According to the Federal Election Commission, by the end of September Democrats put together $281,000 for their candidates, compared to the Republicans' $192,000.

Hagel says Iran sanctions won't work (25-OCT-07)
Nebraska U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel says unilateral sanctions rarely work, and instead, are likely to increase internal support for Iran's hard-line president.

State officials consider tighter Capitol security (25-OCT-07)
In the wake of an up-tick in reported crimes, members of the State Legislature and officials with the Nebraska State Patrol have discussed stepping up security in and around the Capitol.

Lead screenings conducted in Nebraska (25-OCT-07)
State health officials are collaborating with local health departments to hold lead screening clinics around Nebraska.

"Fusion Center" supposed to combat terrorism, crime (25-OCT-07)
Federal Homeland Security grant being used to share data and start cooperative effort between law enforcement agencies; private industry also expected to be involved; civil liberties advocate expresses concern.

Migrant labor restrictions don't harm Nebraska sugar beet industry (24-OCT-07)
Crackdowns on illegal immigration have some sectors of the Ag industry worried about finding enough workers to plant and harvest labor-intensive crops like fruits and vegetables.

Kerrey out, no Democrats in Senate race (24-OCT-07)
Bob Kerrey, who had been promising an announcement for months, said Wednesday that for him and his family, now is not the right time to re-enter elective politics.

Mobile computer classes being offered (24-OCT-07)
Nebraskans can learn more about computers from a mobile lab traveling around the state.

Kerrey won't run for Senate in 2008 (24-OCT-07)
The former Nebraska governor and senator says now is not the time.

Malcolm X birthsite cleanup underway (23-OCT-07)
For the past seven years, the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation has attempted to transform the birthsite, and the surrounding ten acres into a fitting memorial.

Rain delays soybean harvest (23-OCT-07)
The state's soybean harvest is almost 12 days behind where it should be for this time of year, according to the U-S Department of Agriculture.

Republican River basin residents sue state over water (23-OCT-07)
The lawsuit targets a law passed by the State Legislature earlier this year aimed at helping Nebraska meet its obligations to Kansas under the Republican River Compact.

Engineers target silt clogging Lewis and Clark Lake (23-OCT-07)
A pipeline system would move the sediment from the west end of the lake to below Gavins Point Dam. The plan includes a device that would automatically scoop up sand and sediment.

Federal effort underway to protect migrating birds (22-OCT-07)
The plan proposed by President Bush over the weekend would offer tax incentives to landowners who take steps to preserve migratory bird habitat.

Desmond Tutu calls for halt to Omaha violence (22-OCT-07)
As a tireless fighter for the dismantling of apartheid in his native South Africa, Desmond Tutu is familiar with the repercussions of racism and exclusion.

Staph infections garner statewide response (22-OCT-07)
There's been an increasing drumbeat of publicity about infections from methecillin resistant stafphocyloccacus aureus, or MRSA.

Program helps rural preschool students (22-OCT-07)
The program is focused on helping rural, low-income children from the Grand Island area be more prepared to learn reading and writing in kindergarten.

Ethanol oversold to public, economists say (19-OCT-07)
Creighton Economist Ernie Goss says bankers feel ethanol isn't all it's been cracked up to be.

Schools limiting junk food access (19-OCT-07)
The study by the Center for Disease Control looks at school health policies and practices around the country. Overall, it says, schools are making progress in restricting access to junk foods.

Staff Sergeant Lillian Clamens remembered (19-OCT-07)
The Omaha native was getting ready to come home when she was killed in Iraq.

New ads counter ethanol critics (18-OCT-07)
A commercial that began airing on radio stations across Nebraska this week touts this year's record corn production and the recent high corn prices driven largely by the explosion of the ethanol industry.

Nebraska delegation opposes SCHIP veto override (18-OCT-07)
First District Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, Second District Congressman Lee Terry, and Third District Congressman Adrian Smith were among the minority that successfully blocked the override.

Jail time likely for illegal immigrant hiring (17-OCT-07)
David Wortman has pleaded guilty to charges connected to the hiring of 19 suspected illegal immigrants for his business, Cloudburst Lawn and Sprinkler in Grand Island.

Nelson: Extend terrorism insurance bill (17-OCT-07)
Nelson says the Terrorism Risk Reinsurance Act should be extended. The legislation originally passed after the attacks of September 11, 2001 makes the federal government the insurer of last resort for terrorist attack damages too big for private insurers to handle.

Osborne named NU athletic director (17-OCT-07)
Former coach tapped to replace fired Steve Pederson amidst turmoil in football program.

Water officials limit Niobrara irrigation (16-OCT-07)
The decision means a large stretch of the river in north-central Nebraska would be off-limits to new irrigation and other water uses.

Religious leaders combat north Omaha crime (16-OCT-07)
The Concerned Clergy of North Omaha is calling for churches, community groups and individuals across the city, to come together and tackle the problem of rising violence.

Osborne named interim Athletic Director (16-OCT-07)
Tom Osborne takes over for Steve Pederson, who was fired Monday.

Perlman to name interim AD today (16-OCT-07)
No word on who it might be, but a famous former head coach is among the names being mentioned.

Pederson firing brings athletic department full circle (16-OCT-07)
Some donors are unhappy, but many fans rejoiced at the firing of Steve Pederson who declared he would not let the football program slide into mediocrity.

Auditor: Historical Society not trustworthy (15-OCT-07)
Monday's critical audit comes on the heels of last month's arrest of the society's chief operations officer, Tony Schmitz, on charges of embezzling nearly $73,000.

High schoolers can now send transcripts online (15-OCT-07)
The program, known as the Nebraska E-Transcript Initiative, lets high schools electronically send their students' transcripts to college admissions offices.

UNL athletic director Steve Pederson fired (15-OCT-07)
UNL Chancellor Harvey Perlman announced Monday that Athletic Director Steve Pederson has been asked to step down.

Changes to state tax structure considered (12-OCT-07)
The commission studying the state's tax structure has been working since last year on what it will recommend to the Legislature.

Spalding native remembered as hard-working soldier (11-OCT-07)
Christopher Pfeifer's parents live in a small home and friends and family are crowded into it, amid several birdcages filled with songbirds.

Johnny Carson's comedy-writing audio thesis (11-OCT-07)
Using recordings of the famous comedians of the day, Johnny Carson, then a UNL student, explained the techniques and devices used by comedy writers.

Schuyler passes bond for new schools (10-OCT-07)
Schools in the city of Schuyler in northeast Nebraska have had to cope with overcrowding and new demands on the educational system.

Town of Spalding turns out for soldier funeral (10-OCT-07)
Hundreds turned up today to pay their final respects to Private First Class Christopher Pfeifer, whose funeral was held at St. Michael's Catholic Church in the northeast Nebraska town of Spalding.

Johanns announces candidacy for Senate (10-OCT-07)
Former Ag secretary and governor Mike Johanns was introduced and endorsed by Governor Dave Heineman, who called him the clear choice for the job.

Report: ethanol could pollute water, hurt supply (10-OCT-07)
Communities across the Corn Belt could see increased pressure on water resources and more problems with agricultural runoff if expansion of corn-based ethanol keeps up with projections.

Eppley air traffic increases (09-OCT-07)
Passenger traffic has jumped 5.3 percent since 2006, with nearly 3 million people using the airport so far this year.

Petition seeks public telecom service (09-OCT-07)
Nebraska law bans government bodies like public power districts and municipalities from offering telecommunications services. The sponsors of the initiative want to change the law.

Red Cross lowers minimum blood donor age (09-OCT-07)
Starting Monday, the American Red Cross will begin accepting blood from 16-year-olds who have their parents' permission.

Indian tribes take on global warming (08-OCT-07)
A new resolution by the Great Plains Tribal Chairman's Association calls on members to take steps to help stave off climate change.

Missouri River navigation season shorter (08-OCT-07)
Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River year Yankton will scale back water releases next week dropping the water level below what is needed for barge traffic.

Presidents praised by history for defying the people (06-OCT-07)
Presidential Historian Michael Beschloss delivered this year's Governor's Lecture in the Humanities on Presidential Bravery.

SCHIP supporters target Fortenberry (04-OCT-07)
The demonstration's goal is to get Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, a Republican, to support expanding the so-called SCHIP, or state children's health insurance program.

School religious diversity topic of training (08-OCT-07)
The "separation of church and state" doctrine has led many public school teachers to assume that religion is a taboo topic in the classroom. But the Anti-Defamation League says religion can be discussed.

Hagel criticizes Senate inaction on Farm Bill (04-OCT-07)
The House has passed its version of the Farm Bill but the Senate version is going nowhere fast.

Creighton study offers Cuba payment plan (04-OCT-07)
The U.S. government is looking for ideas on how to handle property claims once a new Cuban government takes over.

Nelson: Farm Bill disaster fund needed (03-OCT-07)
Senator Ben Nelson says such a permanent disaster fund is better than having to get special legislation passed to respond to floods, drought, and other disasters.

Norfolk ethanol spill not hazardous, officials say (03-OCT-07)
Up to 12-thousand gallons could have spilled during the transfer of ethanol to the storage tanks at the Elkhorn Valley Ethanol Plant.

Combating poverty and crime in north Omaha (03-OCT-07)
A new plan for north Omaha's revitalization includes building minority-owned retail centers and implementing a workforce development strategy.

Ethanol boom may be over, researchers say (02-OCT-07)
Neil Harl is an economics professor emeritus with Iowa State University. He says the ethanol industry is going through a reality check.

Hastings fire shouldn't pose health threat (02-OCT-07)
The fire early Saturday morning took place at a Marshalltown Instruments building in Hastings, on a portion of a hazardous waste site containing contaminated soil and groundwater.

Livestock producers may defer taxes in 50 Nebraska counties (02-OCT-07)
This story contains a link to an IRS website that lists the counties and outlines the program rules.

Fair study comes with hefty price tag (01-OCT-07)
Consultants say additional revenue and visitors could come with new facilities, estimated at $175 million dollars.

State urged to expand recycling (01-OCT-07)
Only a little more than a third of the nation's trash is currently recycled or composted. But in Nebraska, officials estimate the number is even smaller, somewhere around 25 percent.

State no longer charging contract labor tax (01-OCT-07)
The change is part of a tax reduction packaged proposed by Governor Dave Heineman and passed by the state Legislature last year.

Lincoln doctors seeking patients for prostate cancer trial (01-OCT-07)
Doctors in Lincoln are looking for patients to participate in a clinical trial of a new prostate cancer drug.

Daub withdrawal still leaves heated field (28-SEP-07)
In announcing his withdrawal, Daub said it was clear from conversations in Washington that "the system" had decided Johanns would be the frontrunner.

Daub drops out of Senate race (28-SEP-07)
The former Nebraska Congressman denies being asked to step aside for Mike Johanns.

Nebraska soldier dies from wounds (28-SEP-07)
21-year old Private First Class Christopher Pfiefer, a native of Spalding, died a week after being wounded in Afghanistan.

Tax benefits of ethanol boom unknown (27-SEP-07)
Nebraska farmers are harvesting about 30 percent more corn than last year. Add to that the high grain prices of a few months ago, and experts are predicting the state and the nation should see a spike in farm income.

Senators say war funding debate limited (27-SEP-07)
Like previous funding for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the current proposal for 190 billion dollars comes in the form of an emergency supplemental spending bill.

Combat post traumatic stress disorder conference (27-SEP-07)
Help is available for veterans and their families.

Lincoln doctors seeking patients for prostate cancer trial (01-OCT-07)
Doctors in Lincoln are looking for patients to participate in a clinical trial of a new drug aimed at preventing prostate cancer from spreading to patients' bones.

UNL researchers head back to Antarctica (26-SEP-07)
The researchers are part of a project called ANDRILL that's searching deep within Antarctic ice for clues about global climate patterns millions of years ago.

House votes on children's health care (26-SEP-07)
All three Nebraska congressmen voted Tuesday against expanding the state children's health insurance program.

Thousands of endangered fish to be killed (26-SEP-07)
Routine testing has found abnormal cells and external lesions in the endangered fish being raised at Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery at Yankton, South Dakota.

Health care access concerns rural residents (25-SEP-07)
86 percent of rural Nebraskans surveyed in a recent poll said they consider health care during their retirement years an important concern.

Minority students lag behind whites in school testing (25-SEP-07)
Nebraska 4th and 8th-graders taking the reading and math tests mostly outperformed the national average. But officials are concerned about a persistent gap in performance between minority and white students taking the tests.

Kansas says conserve more Republican River water (24-SEP-07)
Governor Heineman says water conservation efforts are paying off, but Kansas officials say more needs to be done.

Nebraska WWII Vet: Lessons Learned (24-SEP-07)
Roger Peters was an Army Corporal serving in Europe as WWII ended. He tells two stories, and the lessons he learned from his interaction with a German soldier and concentration camp survivor.

State praised for low food stamp excess (21-SEP-07)
While officials celebrated keeping ineligible people off the food stamp rolls, others maintain that many people who are eligible are not getting help from the federally-funded program.

Gas prices could come down in the Midwest (24-SEP-07)
As crude oil prices have topped eighty dollars a barrel, gas prices have remained below three dollars a gallon.

Ethanol demand impacting aquifer, study finds (24-SEP-07)
Environmental groups are worried about how the demand for irrigated corn created by the booming ethanol industry is affecting the water supply in the Ogallala Aquifer.

Marathon contestants to run barefoot (21-SEP-07)
The Omaha Marathon is the first of three Rick Roeber will be running barefoot this year, as part of a fundraising effort for the Kansas City Rescue Mission.

NCAA pushes for downtown stadium (21-SEP-07)
Rosenblatt fans have resisted plans for a new stadium. But Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey says this is about the future of Omaha.

Farm price bubble projected (21-SEP-07)
Almost half of Midwestern bankers questioned in a monthly survey by Creighton University said they strongly agree that the Ag real estate market is seeing a price bubble that can't be sustained.

A Nebraska Tuskegee Airman Remebers Racism, and WWII (22-SEP-07)
Air Force Lt. Col. Charles Lane started his career as a Tuskegee Airman. Now an Omaha resident, he looks back at his WWII experiences, and the racism he faced when he returned home.

Lincoln students rally in support of "Jena Six" (20-SEP-07)
About two dozen students staged a silent rally Thursday afternoon on UNL's campus in support of the so-called "Jena Six."

Nissen recants in triple murder (20-SEP-07)
In a signed affidavit, Tom Nissen reversed earlier testimony that pinned the blame on John Lotter. Both men were convicted of the 1993 murders which targeted 21-year-old Teena Brandon.

Johanns resigns as Agriculture Secretary (20-SEP-07)
President Bush praises Mike Johanns and says he would make a good U.S. Senator. Johanns has not yet announced his political plans.

Nelson: Johanns shouldn't resign now (19-SEP-07)
In his weekly conference call with reporters, Senator Ben Nelson, a Democrat, was asked about published reports that Mike Johanns will resign as secretary of agriculture and enter the Republican Senate primary.

Law change allows Canadian beef imports (19-SEP-07)
Under a rule published this week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is opening up imports of most live Canadian cattle and beef products.

Program helps immigrants learn to farm (19-SEP-07)
A Nebraska program is part of a national effort to train immigrants to become farmers.

NU Regent says he won't run again (18-SEP-07)
Charles Wilson says it's time to move on and make room for a fresh face and new ideas on the board.

Storage space needed for high corn harvest (18-SEP-07)
Officials are forecasting an extra 300-million bushels will be produced across the state compared to one year ago.

Fed cuts may have less impact in Midwest (18-SEP-07)
Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss says he believes the Fed made the larger cut because the fallout from the housing downturn and the problems in the credit market was beginning to affect the overall market.

Lincoln Iraqis fear loss of more relatives (18-SEP-07)
So far, 14 have been killed, 12 kidnapped, and others are refugees in Syria.

Iraqi family in Lincoln feels war's toll (18-SEP-07)
Come inside Haifaa Al-saadon's house in southeast Lincoln and spend some time talking her family about their relatives in Iraq. Suddenly, you feel a close connection to the turmoil there.

Daub announces candidacy for U.S. Senate (17-SEP-07)
Daub kicked off his campaign with a two-day, 11-city fly around beginning in Scottsbluff.

Preparedness planning for multicultural communities (17-SEP-07)
Citizen Corps groups across the state will establish eight regional coalitions to connect members of minority and immigrant populations with emergency response professionals and volunteers.

Bruning backs brand inspector audit (17-SEP-07)
In his legal opinion requested by the brand committee, the Attorney General backs up reasons that state Auditor Mike Foley cited when he concluded in June that the Nebraska Brand Committee paid inspectors more than $170,000 dollars for more than 10,000 hours of work they never performed.

Lincoln man consulting on troop sensitivity (17-SEP-07)
Bob Holbert's job was to advise soldiers on how to deal with the civilian population, which the U.S. is trying to convince to side with the Afghan government against the Taliban.

"Muslim Refusenik" to speak at Doane College (17-SEP-07)
Irshad Manji has gained both ardent supporters and vociferous detractors for her sharp criticism of Islam and her call for reforming the faith.

Lincoln activists march for peace (16-SEP-07)
Cars honked in support as about 75 demonstrators marched up and down "O" Street, chanting "Huskers for Peace" and waving handmade signs.

Encouraging Family Reading Time With Prime Time (15-SEP-07)
Prime Time coaches parents on how reading and talking about reading makes a diffeence in family life, and in their child's education

TD Ameritrade customer database hacked (14-SEP-07)
The company says it recently launched an investigation after a small number of customers reported receiving stock-related e-mail spam.

Mortgage broker sued for predatory lending (14-SEP-07)
The suit targets Advantage Mortgage Service, Incorporated, which brokered sub-prime mortgages.

Hagel: Iraq troop cut inevitable (13-SEP-07)
Hagel spoke to reporters Thursday morning, hours before Bush's speech to the nation on Iraq.

Kerrey holding off on campaign decision (13-SEP-07)
Kerrey's been flirting for months with moving back to Nebraska and running for Senate. But interest in his plans intensified following Senator Chuck Hagel's announcement this week that he won't seeks reelection.

Panhandle cities look to join forces (13-SEP-07)
If they want to become one city, the Panhandle cities of Scottsbluff, Gering and Terrytown at least have geography in their favor.

Lexington arrests part of nationwide sweep (13-SEP-07)
An ICE spokesman says the arrests were part of a national effort to crack down on illegal immigrants who refused to leave the United States after being ordered to by a court of law.

Rape case appeal questioned (12-SEP-07)
The suit is a follow-up to a case involving defendant Pamir Safi and alleged victim Tory Bowen.

Nelson: Military progress made in Iraq (12-SEP-07)
The Nebraska Democrat, who's on the Senate Armed Services Committee, commented the day after General David Petraeus testified about progress and remaining challenges in Iraq.

Omaha cop killing retrial denied (12-SEP-07)
District Judge Russell Bowie rejected the request for a new trial for former Black Panthers Ed Poindexter and David Rice, now known as Mondo we Langa.

Husker Harvest Days rolls on (12-SEP-07)
The 30th annual farm show in Grand Island continues to draw big crowds.

9/11 sculpture unveiled in Omaha (12-SEP-07)
The 16 foot steel and bronze structure curves skyward, and in the center is a sphere of bronze sculpted hands.

9/11 demonstration at UNL marks dead in US, Iraq (12-SEP-07)
College students in Lincoln chose the sixth anniversary of 9/11 as a date to remember lives lost to both war and terrorism.

Lincoln commemorates 9/11 attacks (11-SEP-07)
Relatives and officials speak on the sixth anniversary of terrorist attacks.

Hagel to retire from politics, for now (10-SEP-07)
Hagel says he will not run for reelection to the Senate next year. He made the announcement Monday at the Omaha Press Club.

DUI penalties would rise for drivers refusing test (10-SEP-07)
A new law going into effect this month lets prosecutors charge repeat drunk drivers with an aggravated DUI if they refuse a breathalyzer test.

Fortenberry says Iraq progress encouraging (10-SEP-07)
As General David Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker present their Iraqi progress report, Rep. Jeff Fortenberry says there are signs that things are looking up in that country.

Lincoln Right to Life asks for state scrutiny of Planned Parenthood clinic (10-SEP-07)
In a lawsuit filed in Lancaster County court last week, a Nebraska woman says she suffered severe pain and life-threatening injuries during an abortion procedure performed at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Lincoln last month.

Program to test for lead in low-income children in Kearney, Omaha (10-SEP-07)
Young children are especially susceptible to lead poisoning, a serious condition that can cause developmental delays, seizures and even death.

Senator Chuck Hagel announces retirement (10-SEP-07)
The two-term Republican says he will not seek any elected office in 2008.

Oh say, can you sing? (10-SEP-07)
The chance to sing the national anthem at Cornhusker sporting events brought out dozens of hopefuls.

Hagel set to announce future plans (09-SEP-07)
Senator Chuck Hagel could retire from politics at the end of his term. An announcement comes Monday morning.

Report: farmers and ranchers often lack health care despite insurance (07-SEP-07)
Health care costs may force farmers to cut back on basic health services - even if they're covered by health insurance.

Ethanol boom could go bust without help from Congress (07-SEP-07)
A UNL Ag economist says the ethanol boom won't last without more Congressional intervention.

University fire safey policy approved (07-SEP-07)
All University owned housing will be required to have sprinkler systems by 2017.

Sandbars to help Missouri River birds (10-SEP-07)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is building sandbars upstream and downstream from the Missouri River bridge, which links South Dakota and Nebraska.

"Safe haven" laws re-examined (05-SEP-07)
The discovery of an abandoned infant in Omaha is giving new momentum to legislative proposals that would give mothers a safe, legal way to abandon their newborns.

Democrats seek to gain greater election influence (05-SEP-07)
Nebraska Democrats are trying to increase their influence by holding presidential primary county caucuses on February 9th.

UNL students battle file sharing lawsuits (05-SEP-07)
The student senate plans to educate students on the consequences of illegal downloading, improve access to legal services for students, and build a coalition with other schools to fight the lawsuits.

Electrocution debated in state Supreme Court (04-SEP-07)
The Court began its fall term hearing an appeal of Raymond Mata, Jr.'s death sentence for kidnapping and murdering a three-year old.

State researchers develop robot curriculum (04-SEP-07)
The "TekBots" don't have the slick appeal of hi-tech design. But seeing the robot's insides helps educate kids and get them excited about how it all works.

Omaha meteorologist planned Fossett trips (04-SEP-07)
Missing aviator Steve Fossett asked Lou Billones, formerly a meteorologist at the College of Saint Mary in Omaha, to help plan several solo balloon flights.

Neo-Nazi rally in Omaha met with counter-protest (04-SEP-07)
The Minneapolis-based National Socialist Movement's demonstration of about 50 people was met with an equal number of counter-protestors. And several civic groups gathered for a diversity rally just a few miles from the anti-immigration protest.

Free dental care for low-income residents (03-SEP-07)
Low-income families in northeast Nebraska will get the chance to have their toothaches checked in Norfolk this week.

The Only Resident of Monowi Nebraska (01-SEP-07)
Elsie Eiler talks about being the only resident of her town, and the five thousand volume lending library there.

Gay activists hail Iowa same-sex marriage ruling (31-AUG-07)
Judge Robert Hanson said Thursday the Iowa law allowing marriage only between a man and a woman violates the constitutional rights of due process and equal protection.

Court: Legislature must set sentencing guidelines (31-AUG-07)
The ruling involves the community corrections program authorized by the Nebraska Legislature in 2003. The Supreme Court said the guidelines for sentencing offenders need to be set by the Legislature, not the Court.

Case challenges death penalty law (04-SEP-07)
Raymond Mata Jr.'s case raises the question of whether Nebraska's reliance on the electric chair for executions violates the constitution's ban on cruel and unusual punishment.

Website tracks state government spending (03-SEP-07)
Members of the public can use NebraskaSpending.com to search state expenditures and revenues, as well as the budgets of various state agencies.

Beer sales to reservation protested (31-AUG-07)
Allegations that most of the 4.5 million cans of beer sold in Whiteclay annually make their way to the "dry" Pine Ridge Indian Reservation have been an issue for years.

UNL enrollment, budget outlook positive (30-AUG-07)
UNL Chancellor Harvey Perlman says enrollment is up this semester. And he says that means the university will not "face major budgetary issues this year."

Asia trade trip record-largest for Nebraska (30-AUG-07)
The 12-day trip includes stops in China, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan.

Nebraska farmers should see income hike (30-AUG-07)
Driven by major jumps in crop prices in recent months, the nation's net farm income is expected to surpass 87 billion dollars for the year.

Music, film and discussion look back on Katrina impact (03-SEP-07)
Remembering and learning from Hurricane Katrina is the goal of events beginning in Lincoln this week.

DHHS public health language examined (30-AUG-07)
Just how state agencies should go about talking about sex, depends on who you ask.

Katrina evacuees still struggle in Nebraska (29-AUG-07)
166 people from New Orleans were brought by plane to Omaha. Officials say many evacuees have stayed in the city because they're concerned about news of lingering problems in the New Orleans area.

Astronaut speaks to hometown students (29-AUG-07)
Ashland native Clayton Anderson took ten minutes to answer two dozen questions, ranging from how he sleeps and what he eats, to what the sunrise looks like in space.

Wounded vets center proposed (29-AUG-07)
Sen. Chuck Hagel and former Sen. Bob Kerrey were both wounded in Vietnam. On Wednesday they talked about the retreat center proposed for 80 acres near Crawford, with a lodge bearing their names.

UNL professor returns after two-year effort (28-AUG-07)
After a 2005 visit to Bolivia, Department of Homeland Security officials blocked Waskar Ari from re-entering the United States. The department finally granted Ari's work visa in May.

Corporate farming ban replacement considered (28-AUG-07)
Nebraska's corporate farming restrictions were ruled unconstitutional in 2005. The Legislature is looking into what, if anything, should replace the measure.

Number of kids without health care rises (28-AUG-07)
The number of Americans without health insurance went up half a percent, to 47 million nationally. An estimated 194-thousand Nebraskans, or about 11 percent, lack health care.

Gavin's Point Dam turns 50 (29-AUG-07)
The northeast Nebraska dam itself is in excellent condition. However, there is a growing problem of silt building up at the west end of Lewis and Clark Lake.

NPPD fluorescent lighting program (28-AUG-07)
The utility wants to offer incentives to get consumers to make the switch from incadescent bulbs.

Obesity rates on the rise in Nebraska (28-AUG-07)
Nebraska, like the rest of the country, is seeing an increase in obesity.

Ponca Powwow Preserves, Teaches Tradition (27-AUG-07)
The Powwow is the 14th held by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska near Niobrara.

Corporate farm ban hearings this week (27-AUG-07)
The Legislature's Agriculture Committee is considering what - if any - legislation should be drafted to replace the state's corporate farming ban.

Minority health conference to be held (27-AUG-07)
The annual minority health conference is being held in Lincoln Monday and tomorrow.

State fair kicks off in Lincoln (24-AUG-07)
Fairgoers helped themselves to corn dogs and peaches on a stick on the fair's first day.

Somali Swift workers proposed prayer time (24-AUG-07)
The dispute revolves around the religious requirement that Muslims pray at sundown, which comes at different times over the course of the year.

Guard troops welcomed home from Iraq (24-AUG-07)
A huge American flag hung suspended from a fire department ladder truck outside the helicopter maintenance hanger where troops and their families gathered for the welcoming ceremony.

Schedule of Sandoz Book Events at State Fair (24-AUG-0