NET Local News Features
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Broader competition for USDA's 'rural' dollars
As Congress debates the Farm Bill in Washington, millions of dollars in rural development grants and loans are at stake. With budget cuts likely, there’s concern a tighter belt will mean farmers and ranchers in small towns will be left behind.
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Federal funds flow to rural communities
The USDA's Rural Development Program doesn't get a lot of attention in the farm bill debate. More attention is given to farmers than farm towns. But supporters say it is a difference-maker for job creation in small, rural communities.
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Farmers markets find more customers using food stamps
Food stamps are being targeted for cuts as Congress debates a new Farm Bill. 47 million Americans are enrolled in SNAP, including 1 out of 10 Nebraskans. Most of the money goes to grocery stores, but an increasing amount is spent at farmers markets.
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Proposals to fight human trafficking and to subsidize...
Penalties for soliciting prostitutes under 18 would increase; wages would be subsidized for six months
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Heat, Drought Killing Nebraska's Evergreens
Thursday, May 23, 2013 - 00:06
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Child care, juvenile justice bills one step from passage
families could earn more and still qualify for subsidies; fewer juveniles would be taken from homes
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Wind bill advances along with ban on increased sales tax...
Wind power developers would get sales tax exemption; Omaha would be limited to 1.5 cents tax
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Cities keep sales tax power; Medicaid expansion looks...
proposal to roll back half-cent sales tax authority falls short; chief sponsor of Medicaid expansion concedes she's running out of time; State Patrol superintendent and Oglala Sioux tribal president differ in response to beer truck vandalism in Whiteclay.
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Cities keep sales tax power; Medicaid expansion looks...
proposal would have reduced tax authority by half a cent. Patrol, tribe offer different perspectives on Whiteclay
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Rocky Ford cantaloupe growers come cleaner
After several deadly foodborne illness outbreaks tied to cantaloupe, melon growers in the Colorado growing region have been trying to repair their image and keep an outbreak from happening again.
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Conservation acres harder to come by
For 27 years, the federal Conservation Reserve Program has taken land out of farming to improve water, provide habitat, and reduce erosion. But farmers have been enrolling less land and it’s not just budget cuts that could make it smaller still.
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Cities may lose permission to raise sales taxes; mental...
The Legislature appears to be moving toward rescinding permission for cities to raise sales taxes, children's mental health screening advances
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Kansas seeks turning point for rural communities
With populations declining, rural communities are searching for ways to convince young residents to return. In the state of Kansas, it actually pays to go back. A one-of-a-kind program offers tax incentives for residents to settle in rural counties.
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A Living History; The Importance of Holocaust Education...
Holocaust education teachers try to adapt as more and more Holocaust Survivors die and take their first hand accounts of the tragedy they suffered at the hands of the Nazis with them.
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Juvenile justice bill advances; Medicaid expansion...
Bill aims at providing more services to troubled youth; Medicaid expansion still short of needed votes.
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Death penalty repeal falls short; governor's school...
Pro-repeal senators fail to cut off filibuster; governor's veto of school retirement bill overridden, Bruning fined for Senate campaign
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Legislature debates death penalty repeal; unlikely to...
Senators debate death penalty repeal, unlikely to overcome filibuster
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Growing a local beer, from farm to glass
With craft breweries sprouting up all over and local foodies looking for a beverage equivalent, "farm to glass" beer makers are starting to take root.
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Brony Fandom Carves Out Space For Young Men To Enjoy...
Forget Trekkies – there’s a new fandom in town, centered around a cartoon show created for little girls. Yet most of the fans? They’re males in their twenties. Take a peek inside Nebraska’s “My Little Pony” convention to learn more.
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Legislature debates death penalty repeal; unlikely to...
Nebraska lawmakers vote 26-18 against killing repeal bill, but need 33 to overcome filibuster
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Stage set for senators to debate death penalty repeal
Chances seen as better than recent years, but filibuster threat creates high hurdle. Repeal passed in 1979 but was vetoed; it would take 30 votes in the 49-member Legislature to override a veto; 33 to stop a filibuster
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New state plane temporarily grounded, school aid...
The Legislature took $2.2 million for the purchase of a replacement plane out of the budget pending a study; school aid to rise 5 percent a year, from $852 million this fiscal year to $940 million two years hence.
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Senators reject increased property tax credit, advance...
Proposal would have saved $5 a year on $100,000 house. Budget would average 5.2 percent annual increase over next two years.
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NET News Signature Story: Omaha Mayor's Race
The Omaha mayoral race, the candidates and the broader impact on Nebraska politics
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Senators discuss budget but no major changes yet
First round debate takes place on 2-year, $7.8 billion proposal. State plane, school aid discussed.
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Lake McConaughy Water Levels
Wednesday, May 8, 2013 - 16:06
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Co-ops in Nebraska are bigger - and smaller - than ever
The United Nations declared 2012 the International Year of the Cooperative, but the number of co-ops in Nebraska has been steadily declining. The cooperative model, long a staple of Nebraska’s agricultural community, is changing, but it’s also being adapted for other essential rural services.
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Senators pass bill to shore up retirement funds
Bill would raise state contribution; lower benefits for future hires; critics doubt it's a long-term answer.
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How Climate Chance Will Impact Great Plains Agriculture
Tuesday, May 7, 2013 - 00:06
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Drums of Change Radio Essay
Facebook C-E-O Sheryl Sandberg’s book, Lean In, has been sitting atop the New York Times Best Seller list for the past 6 weeks. She uses personal stories to encourage women to take risks and to be leaders. This weekend we have an essay from NET Television’s Christine Lesiak (LAY-shack) who tells us...
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Cagey issues for egg industry
Americans like eggs. We consume about 250 eggs per person each year. However, the poultry business is often criticized for how it cares for the millions of hens that lay all those eggs. Now the industry says it is responding and making changes.
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PSC appeals would be streamlined; budget debate next week
Legislature advances bill eliminating appeals of rate-settng and other decisions to district court; budget debate begins next week
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Potato industry banks on Linda
Across the country people are eating fewer potatoes. Talk with a potato grower and they’ll blame anti-carb diets. To reverse the trend, the potato industry is giving the vegetable a healthier image, and focusing on one very specific type of customer.
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Former Nebraska State Senator Teaching Leadership in...
Former Nebraska state senator David Bernard-Stevens is now living in Kenya providing leadership training through a new company he has started. Bernard-Stevens hopes to expand the reach of the company across the globe.
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Could money from the Unicameral bring film jobs to...
Members of the Nebraska Film Association and other filmmakers are asking the Nebraska Legislature to implement a state-side, comprehensive film incentives program to encourage filmmakers to ply their craft in Nebraska.
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State might pay some Republican River farmers not to...
Christensen bill would pay Republican River surface water irrigators up to $10 million; climate change effects would be studied
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Now Hiring; How Nebraska's Aging Population Contibutes...
Home Health Aide is the fastest growing job in the U.S. and the fourth fastest growing job in Nebraska. As the population ages, the demand for home health aides is skyrocketing.
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Senators fight over dividing up school aid
Nebraska legislators are wrangling over the division of state aid to schools.
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Maternal deaths would be reviewed; Cowboy Trail portions...
Nebraska's child death review team would be expanded to examine maternal deaths; portions of the Cowboy Trail could be leased to localities for improvement.
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Supporters, Opponents Duel at Final Pipeline Meeting in...
Hundreds gather in Grand Island for the final State Department public hearing on the Keystone XL pipeline. A section of the pipeline would cross Nebraska.
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Charlie Rogers Sentencing
Charlie Rogers sentenced after reporting fake hate crime in 2012.
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Future Nebraska School Employees Could Receive Reduced...
LB533 received first-round approval in the Nebraska Legislature. The bill could reduce retirement benefits for future Nebraska school employees.
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Nervous and Poor, a Small Symphony Orchestra Survives in...
Despite increasing expenses and declining revenue, the Hastings Symphony Orchestra is working to extend its 87-year classical music tradition.
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Medicaid expansion stalls in Nebraska Legislature
Senators favoring the plan say they didn't have 33 votes for cloture; bill may not come back again this year.
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A letter from Willa Cather
Wednesday, April 17, 2013 - 00:45
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New book shatters secrecy surrounding Willa Cather's...
A new book released yesterday upends decades of secrecy surrounding the correspondence of famed Nebraska author Willa Cather. Before, scholars weren’t even allowed to quote from her letters …. now, anyone and everyone can explore her most intimate words.
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Senators begin debate on expanding Medicaid
Senators began debating the proposed expansion of Medicaid on Tuesday.
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Nebraska Runner Describes Boston Marathon Explosions
UNL professor Brian Robertson and his wife escaped injury in the deadly Boston Marathon bomb blasts Monday. Robertson was close to finishing the race when the explosions occured in front of him.
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Nebraska Runner Escapes Injury in Boston Marathon...
UNL professor Brian Robertson was close to finishing the Boston Marathon when two explosions occurred near the finish line of the race. Robertson and his wife were both uninjured.
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Nebraska Skateboarding Outreach to Homeless Spreads...
Skate for Change, a Lincoln-based homeless outreach program, has spread to other cities across the country and in Canada. The group of skateboarders distributes donated items including hygiene kits to the homeless.
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Senators balk at more troopers to enforce liquor laws;...
Senators resisted a proposal to add 10 state troopers to enforce liquor commission regulations, but advanced a proposal that could make young murderers eligible for parole after 20 years.
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Thirsty cities drain Colorado farmland
Farmers throughout the Great Plains are preparing for what could be a tough, dry growing season. Limited irrigation resources pose a particular problem in Colorado where thirsty cities have gobbled up water rights for decades.
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Raising vehicle fees to support state parts runs into...
Sen. Bill Avery proposes replacing $25 annual park permits with $7 vehicle registration fee increase.
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NET News Signature Story: Will Rain and Snow Bust...
Update of drought conditions in Nebraska
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Senators compromise on juvenile sentences after verbal...
Juveniles would be sentenced to 40 years to life,potentially parole eligible after 20 years.
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Two sides to ConAgra’s push in store brand foods
ConAgra is the largest store brand, or private label, food company in the U.S. It’s one of the few areas in the food industry that has shown solid growth. It also point out a changing relationship between companies making food and selling it.
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An Epidemic of Violence: Nebraska's Tribes Lack Legal...
The recent expansion of the federal Violence Against Women Act has been hailed as a milestone for Native women in the fight against domestic abuse and sexual assault. But it’s unlikely the law will have nearly as much impact on Nebraska’s tribes as it will in other states.
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Senators debate sentencing for juvenile murderers
Debate follow U.S. Supreme court ruling againt life in prison without parole mandate.
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Citizens patrolling Omaha neighborhoods
Citizens are patrolling Omaha neighborhoods. They're unarmed and not supposed to confront anyone, but call police if they see something suspicious. Supporters say they're a deterrent to crime, while a critic says they encourage people to "snoop."
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Help for former foster kids advances; contracts headed...
Senators advance bill offering housing assistance to 19 and 20 year olds who "age out" of foster care.
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Hastings Symphony Performance
Performance sample of the Hastings Symphony Orchestra with violin soloist Nadia Maudhoo.
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Taxing complications for farmers
When it comes to taxes, farming is often unique. If you think of April 15th as Tax Day, then you’re probably not a farmer. Most years, farmers must file and pay their taxes by March 1st, but this year is different.
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Preventing Concussions in High School Athletes
A look at the impact of the passage of the Concussion Awareness Act into law in Nebraska. An athletic trainer, an athlete and a researcher say it has made a difference in how school's approach such injuries.
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Senators get testy over filibustering; election, foster...
Senators grow testy over Chambers' filibuster tactics, compromise on election bill, and begin debating post-foster care services.
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Bill to replace property taxes on conservation land...
Proposal would require groups to replace revenues lost from lands tranferred to feds. Debate begins on changes to election law.
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Single and Living Alone: Redefining the Black Middle...
Wednesday, April 3, 2013 - 06:30
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Proposed changes to Environmental Trust stir resistance
Conservation groups would be required by law to make up for property taxes lost on sales to federal government
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Genetically engineered meat on the table
Over the last year or so, at least 20 states have introduced bills that would require labeling of genetically modified food. Several of the proposals take specific aim at genetically engineered meat and fish, which are close to reaching the table.
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An epidemic of violence: Nebraska Native women struggle...
One in three Native American women will face domestic or sexual violence in their lifetimes; many will suffer both. The recent expansion of the federal Violence Against Women Act contains specific provisions aimed at protecting Native women, but the roots of the violence run deep, and a solution for...
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Genetically engineered meat on the table
Over the last year or so, at least 20 states have introduced bills that would require labeling of genetically modified food. Some of these proposed laws take aim specifically at genetically engineered meat or fish.
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Inducing a Cure; Nebraska Doctor seeking new ways to...
A doctor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, expanding on Nobel Prize winning research, has developed a new way of creating stem cells. He hopes his research can be used to treat conditions which cause blindness.
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Senators debate spending on water, roads, and schools
Sen. Steve Lathrop says money set aside for roads means Sen. Tom Carlson's water projects proposal would require a tax hike or a cut in school aid.
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Regulating Fracking in Nebraska
A look at new regulations the state oil and gas commission is approving related to hydraulic fracturing, and how much is actually occurring in the state.
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STD bill advances despite statutory rape claim
Sexual partners of those infected could get drugs without seeing a doctor; Christensen charges that could amount to condoning statutory rape.
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Legislature moves toward vote on STD prescriptions
Lawmakers are debating a bill which would let people infected with certain STDs take him prescriptions for their infected partners who don't see a doctor.
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When grain elevators explode
After a deadly explosion in northeast Kansas, some of the victims’ families say the only way to put a stop to grain explosions may be to bring criminal prosecutions against grain companies.
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Researchers explore the secret life of plants
Spring is here, and Nebraska gardeners will soon be digging in the mud with trowels, packets of seeds at their sides – if they aren’t already. Some will try to encourage struggling seedlings with conversation, perhaps to the chagrin of their neighbors. But as research shows, plants are much more com...
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Wildfire bill shows fiscal crunch; STD proposal meets...
Senator says lots of good ideas chasing limited dollars; STD bill prompts call for parental involvement
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Rural post offices in crisis
The U.S. Postal Service is cutting costs. Along with the well-publicized end of Saturday delivery, another move is hitting home in Nebraska and other parts of rural America. The USPS plans to cut staff and hours at about 13,000 post offices.
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Proposals on juvenile justice and handling of steel slag...
Judges, not prosecutors, would determine if those under 18 would be tried as adults; steel slag would be treated as a product, not solid waste; and a rollback of prenatal care for illegal immigrants seems unlikely.
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Gun rights hearing held; tax modernization study advances
The Judiciary Committee heard a proposal not to enforce tougher federal gun laws in Nebraska, while the Legislature advanced a tax modernization study.
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Devil Clouds part 2
Tornado forecasting and preparedness, past and present; part three of Devil Clouds: Tornadoes Strike Nebraska series
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Death penalty repeal headed to full Legislature for...
The Judiciary Committee advances a bill that would replace the death penalty with life in prison without possibility of parole. Income tax breaks for military and Social Security retirees fail to advance. And University of Nebraska officials ask for their full budget request.
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NET News: Devil Clouds part 3
Part 3 of Devil Clouds: Tornadoes Strike Nebraska series, interview with producer Mike Tobias about Devil Clouds: Tornadoes Strike Nebraska documentary
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NET news: Devil Clouds pt 1
Part one of Devil Clouds: Tornadoes Strike Nebraska series, a look back at the deadliest tornado outbreak in Nebraska history
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Pledge of Allegiance requirement under fire; tax...
Sen. Ernie Chambers want to nullify a state Board of Edcuation requirement that schools set aside time for pledge; Sen. Beau McCoy says Sen. Annette Dubas is trying to kill her own bill for a sales tax exemption on ag machinery parts, Dubas denies that.
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Could genetically-modified food labeling laws pass in...
Whole Foods Market recently announced that by 2018, all products in its U.S. and Canadian stores containing genetically modified organisms will be clearly labeled. The grocery chain’s decision has pushed this strongly debated food labeling issue into the shopping aisle. The real action, though, is h...
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Tax proposals spur legislative fight
A proposal to study Nebraska's tax system is delayed by criticism of existing tax break proposals for things like wind energy.
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Online High School
Online high school moves to attract additional Nebraska students
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Crowd packs hearing on sexual orientation discrimination...
Supporters and opponents stood in line to testify on bills dealing with discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment, adoption and foster care.
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Hate Group Report
Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center interviewed about the group's annual report on hate groups and political extremism. Included is a discussion about Nebraska neo-Nazi Gary Gerhard Lauck.
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Death penalty abolition heard; historic horseracing...
The Legislature gave first round approval to a proposed constitutional amendment allowing betting on "historic" horseracing, and the Judiciary Committee heard a proposal to abolish the death penalty.
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Legalize it? Kentucky farmers look to hemp
Some states are trying to bring back industrial hemp as an alternative crop. The close relative of marijuana is used in a number of products like textiles, car parts, lotions and paper. But like its cousin, it’s illegal to grow in the United States.
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Going Digital: Downloadable Content Replacing Books in...
Across Nebraska, iPads and e-readers are becoming the new normal. The demand for downloadable content is so great, the Nebraska Library Commission recently asked the state legislature for a million dollars to buy more electronic resources. At many schools, iPads have now replaced textbooks in some c...
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Meningitis vaccine discussed, historic horseracing nears...
The Nebraska Legislature held a public hearing on requiring meningitis vaccinations; historic horseracing proposal nears first round vote.
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Numbers of homeless women and children in Nebraska on...
Women and children are the fastest-growing segment of America’s homeless population, but shelters can’t keep up. NET News spoke with Nebraska case managers, researchers and homeless women themselves to learn why.
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Health insurance unknowns loom for farmers as Affordable...
Full-time farmers and ranchers are more likely than other people to buy their own health insurance. And that means rural communities may see more impact from the Affordable Care Act than other places.
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Voter ID proposal draws a crowd; "historic" horseracing...
Lawmakers debated voter ID, historic horseracing, and wind farm tax breaks on Thursday.
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Idle ethanol plants waiting for E15
High corn prices and low demand for ethanol have shut down ethanol plants in at least 13 states, including Nebraska, over recent months. The industry is trying to change the equation by putting more ethanol in gasoline, but ethanol critics are pushing back.
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Smartphone Use Causes New Modern Ailment: “Text Neck”
Spending too much time on your smartphone or tablet computer can be a pain in the neck – literally. Looking down for too long sending text messages can cause strain to the head, neck, and shoulders. Ariana Brocious of NET News talks with Dr. Chris Cornett at the University of Nebraska Medical Center...
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"Historic" horseracing debate has demo available;...
Sen. Bob Krist added a new wrinkle to the old debate over betting on previously run races on video terminals by arranging for a terminal in the Capitol.
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Colorado Marijuana
Colorado's legalized medical marijuana causes problems for Nebraska law enforcement.
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Solar "gardens," community college taxes in spotlight
Proposals to expand solar power and change community college funding ran into tough sledding in the Nebraska Legislature.
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More funding urged for early childhood education;...
Sen. John Harms proposes to increase funding for early childhood education; Sen. Bob Krist wants to take problem gambling program away from DHHS
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Safety concerns threaten growing market for raw milk...
Some consumers consider raw milk cheese more nutritious because pasteurization hasn’t killed living beneficial organisms in the milk. But not pasteurizing milk can also allow harmful bacteria to live.
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Painting a New Picture: The Many Faces of NF
Neurofibromatosis is the most common genetic disorder in the world. An estimated 100,000 Americans have it, impacting people of all races, genders, and socioeconomic status. Even though it’s so common, experts say many people don't know about the disorder, and that's what a Nebraska artist is trying...
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Medicaid expansion discussed at hearing
The Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee heard testimony Thursday for and against expanding Medicaid.
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Amended bill dealing with sexual orientation killed;...
A bill dealing with McCook work camp inmates working was withdrawn after being amended to exclude employers who discriminate based on sexual orientation; Sen. Heath Mello discusses preliminary budget recommendations; Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh apologizes for DUI.
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Owning It: Changing Gender Roles Lead to Greater...
Those who come first pave the way for those who follow – and as roles for women in Nebraska have changed, so has their participation in business. Female entrepreneurs and business owners from across the state talk about how cultural changes for women are improving their opportunities for success.
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Legislature steps toward dealing with discrimination...
The Nebraska Legislature voted to ban employers who discriminate based on sexual orientation from using McCook work camp inmates.
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NET News Signature Story: Owning It: Women Entrepreneurs...
The number of women-owned businesses has increased by 54 percent in the last 15 years, but women still lag behind. NET News reporter Hilary Stohs-Krause traveled across Nebraska, talking with women business owners and entrepreneurs about what's holding them back. This is the first of a two-part seri...
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White House lists sequestration cuts, but effects in...
The White House is listing what it says will be the effect of budget sequestration in Nebraska, but the effects in the state remain unclear.
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More resources needed to fight wildfires, Natural...
Sen. Al Davis introduces legislation to station aeriel tankers near Chadron and Valentine to combat wildfires; Sen. Bill Avery proposes to limit costs of public records; former Sen. Ardyce Bohlke is remembered.
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Major tax changes, or mere tweaks? Study may provide...
Now that the Legislature has killed Gov. Dave Heineman's proposal to abolish state income taxes, a proposed committee will study the state's tax system and recommend changes.
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NET News Signature Story: Dairy settlement doesn't...
When a group of small farmers in the southeastern U.S. banded together to sue a powerful dairy cooperative a few years ago, many hoped that the case would bring big changes to the milk industry.
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Chambers filibusters inmate bill; Whiteclay revisited;...
Sen. Ernie Chambers filibustered a bill allowing McCook work camp inmates to work for nonprofits; Sen. Colby Coash proposed allowing money originally earmarked for Whiteclay possibly to be spent elsewhere, and Gov. Dave Heineman's tax proposals were officially killed.
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Keeping an eye on federal health exchange; DHHS audit in...
Sen. Jeremy Nordquist of Omaha has proposed commission to oversee health exchange; Auditor Mike Foley says DHHS missed $1.8 million in federal reimbursements over 10 years.
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Packing Heat in the Good Life
Tuesday, February 19, 2013 - 10:00
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Johanns won't seek reelection to Senate; Janssen in for...
U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns announces he won't seek reelection in 2014; state Sen. Charlie Janssen says he will run for governor next year.
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NET News Signature Story: Science of the Seed Part 1
The roots of the technology behind genetically modified corn and soybeans go back nearly 30 years, but GM crops are still controversial.
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Ban on law enforcement use of drones considered
Sen. Paul Schumacher has proposed prohibiting Nebraska law enforcement agencies from using drones to gather evidence or other information.
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NET News Signature Story: 50,000 Love Letters:...
It’s Valentine’s Day, and people are scrambling for a special way to convey their feelings. As more and more personal communication takes place digitally, the rituals of romantic relationships in America are changing. But in Nebraska, some traditions are harder to stamp out.
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Governor names Lavon Heidemann as new lieutenant governor
Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman appointed former state Senator and University of Nebraska Regent Lavon Heidemann of Elk Creek to be lieutenant governor, succeeding Rick Sheehy, who resigned.
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Bill on motorcyles at red lights shows Legislature...
Sen. Paul Schumacher of Columbus proposes solution to motorcycles not being massive enough to trip traffic light sensors.
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Report: Value of tax incentives program can't be judged
A legislative report says it cannot be determined if the Nebraska Advantage and other tax incentives programs are working as senators intended.
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NET News: Months After the Election, Citizen Frustration...
The election is over. From Lincoln to Washington D.C., new lawmakers have been sworn in and are in office. But one thing doesn’t seem to have changed, and that is citizen frustration with politics and politicians. Last year we heard this frequently from Nebraskans recording their thoughts for our Vo...
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Legislture wrestles with open meetings, murder sentences...
Friday, February 8, 2013 - 17:10
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NET News Signature Story: Technology chips away at...
Since 1856, for instance, wheat has been traded on the floor of the Kansas City Board of Trade. In the old days, there would be a swarm of traders around the pits, shouting orders, making those crazy hand signals you've seen in the movies, but that will end later this summer.
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Marion Execution
One of Nebraska's most controversial executions. An innocent man is hung.
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Heineman open to discussing sales tax on services
Gov. Dave Heineman says he's willing to discuss imposing a sales tax on services, so long as the state doesn't raise taxes overall,as part of tax reform.
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Hearing opens on governor's tax proposal
The Revenue Committee began hearing Gov. Dave Heinemans' proposal to abolish income taxes and replace revenue by ending many sales tax exemptions.
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Death Penalty History: Research for NET documentary...
A history of the death penalty in Nebraska, supplimenting documentary Until He Is Dead: A history of Nebraska's death penalty
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Death Penalty History: hanging remains Nebraska's most...
The handing of an innocent man.
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Chambers and education groups clash over superintendent...
Sen. Ernie Chambers proposed abolishing teaching requirement before superintendency; education groups opposed.
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Death Penalty History: Death penalty methods evolved...
A preview of the history of the death penalty in Nebraska in advance of the documentary "...until he is dead." From public hangings, to the electric chair, to lethal injection, the state of Nebraska has been slow to change the manner in which it inflictes capital punishment
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Heineman to appoint caretaker Lt. Gov; state chamber...
Gov. Dave Heineman says he'll appoint someone to replace resigned Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy who will not run in 2014; Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry opposes Heineman's plan to abolish income taxes.
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Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy resigns amid questions over...
Nebraska Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy resigned Saturday after the Omaha World- Herald newspaper raised questions about his relationships with several women.
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Omaha school board, former foster children, Hagel in...
The Legislature heard proposals to cut the Omaha school board and extend services to former state wards, while Sen. Deb Fischer was among those questioning former Sen. Chuck Hagel in Washington.
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Wild Kingdom Turns 50
The national television program "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom" is celebrating its 50 anniversary. Barney McCoy talks with creater Don Meier of Oshkosh, Nebraska about the history of the long-running show.
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Nebraska Child Welfare Reform Contest Entry
"Nebraska Child Welfare Reform" talk show edited clip for entry in AP awards contest.
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Bills to cut Social Security taxes heard
The Legislature's Revenue Committee heard three proposals Wednesday to reduce or eliminate state income taxes on Social Security benefits.
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NET News Signature Story: Money and politics: Digging...
Financial information about politicians can be useful to voters and political watchdog groups – but it’s not always easy to come by. If you do dig into what’s available, what does it say about the wealth of Nebraska state legislators compared to their constituents? Does that relate to conflicts of i...
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Lawmakers consider strengthening career education
Sen. Brad Ashford has proposed beefing up career academies for students not necessarily headed to four-year colleges.
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Ban on employers requiring access to employees social...
Employers would be prohibited from requiring access to their employees or job applicants social media sites.
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Arguments heard on banning children under 18 from...
Supports say a ban on children under 18 in tanning salons would reduce cancer; opponents say it could backfire, and is heavyhanded.
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NET News Signature Story: Farm bill extension not...
Organic farmers felt left out in the cold when Congress enacted new farm bill legislation on Jan. 1. Lawmakers cut virtually all funding for organic farm programs while retaining billions in subsidies that largely benefit conventional farms.
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Medicaid expansion question may hinge on numbers
There are competing estimates on whether it would cost Nebraska or save the state money if it expands Medicaid.
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NET News Signature Story: Drought raises stakes on...
Kansas and Nebraska’s dispute over the Republican River continues to head for a decision by the Supreme Court. The latest chapter in the border water battle comes as many farmers are dealing with drought and planning for water restrictions.
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Medicaid expansion proposal introduced
A bill to expand Medicaid coverage for low-income Nebraskans was among measures introduced in the Legislature.
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Heineman recommends Keystone XL pipeline route to feds
Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman approved the proposed route of the Keystone XL oil pipeline through the state. The final decision now goes to the State Department and President Obama.
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Flu Hits Nebraska Early and Often
The 2012-2013 flu season is in full swing in Nebraska. It struck earlier than usual, and is sending around 500 Nebraskans a week to the doctor. The flu has been linked to at least six deaths in the state. However, the Department of Health and Human Services said there may be hope ahead.
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Heineman lists sales tax exemptions he'd end to...
Gov. Dave Heineman listed sales tax exemptions he would end in order to pay for eliminating personal and corporate income taxes.
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NET News Signature Story: U.S. aquaculture farms...
This year’s drought delivered a pricey punch to U.S. aquaculture, the business of raising fish like bass and catfish for food. Worldwide, aquaculture has grown into a $119 billion industry, but the lack of water and high temperatures in 2012 hurt many U.S. fish farmers like Kahrs who were already st...
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Youth focus of Heavican speech, McGill bill in...
Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Mike Heavican talked about keeping kids at home while they're involved in the juvenile justice system in his annual State of the Judiciary speech before the Legislature.
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NET News Signature Story: Nebraska Artists Swap...
When it comes to contemporary art, forget paintbrushes, blocks of stone or pottery wheels; for some Nebraska artists, it’s all about supercomputers, lines of code and robots. But while they push the boundaries of art, such innovations also present new challenges for museums – and audiences.
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Higher pay for foster families discussed in legislative...
The Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee heard an update on child welfare, including attempts to raise foster parents' reimbursement.
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Heineman proposes abolishing Nebraska income taxes
Gov. Dave Heineman in his State of the State speech proposed abolishing Nebraska's personal and corporate income taxes.
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NET News Signature Story: Slow progress on...
The site of National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility is still just a huge hole in the ground nearly a year after the initial ground-breaking.
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Calls for more state spending on eve of governor's...
A coalition of groups is calling for more state spending on programs for the elderly, poor, disabled and children on the eve of a possible tax cut proposal from the governor.
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NET News Signature Story: Can small farms do business...
The world’s largest retailer is muscling in on one of the fastest growing segments of American agriculture - local food. Wal-mart says 11 percent of the produce sold in its stores nationwide comes from local farms. That’s up from 4 percent two years ago. There’s no doubt this move has shaken up the...
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Tightening seatbelt law proposed
A bill was introduced in the Legislature to tighten Nebraska's seatbelt law, and to change eminent domain provisions.
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Gun owner liability proposal among more than 100 bills...
More than 100 proposals were introduced in the Nebraska Legislature Thursday, including one to hold gun owners responsible for making weapons available to minors or the mentally incompetent.
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Legislature opens; committee chairs elected
The Nebraska Legislature opened its 2013 session Wednesday, electing committee chairs.
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2013 legislative session to include decisions on health...
The 2013 session of the Nebraska Legislature gets underway Wednesday, with big decisions expected on topics including Medicaid expansion and future taxes.
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NET News Signature Story: Drones to Fly in Nebraska Skies
The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan led to groundbreaking innovations in new technologies. Many of those advances came in the form of unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs. In February of 2012, President Barack Obama signed a mandate that will open the skies over the U.S. to commercial UAVs in 2015. The mo...
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NET News Signature Story: Safety scrutiny turns to grain
The Food Safety and Modernization Act became law two years ago. While the produce and meat industries get the lion’s share of attention, commodity grains now fall under the FDA’s watch.
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NET News Signature Story: New year, same drought
2012 was a drought year for the record books. It was the warmest year ever recorded in Des Moines, Iowa, Topeka, Kansas, and Columbia, Missouri and the driest ever in Grand Island, Nebraska. The question is whether 2013 will be any different.
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NET News Signature Story: Yogurt bacteria could one day...
A Nebraskan is infected with HIV every three days; nationally, it’s every 11 minutes. A vaccine for the virus will be tricky to come by, if it’s possible at all. But a researcher from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is looking into a method of prevention that would be easy, cheap and long-term –...
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NET News Signature Story: Cellulosic ethanol is coming,...
About a decade ago, concerns about energy independence, greenhouse gas emissions and the need to boost rural economies led Congress to launch policies in support of biofuels – corn ethanol, most notably. But the idea was that eventually more U.S.-produced fuel would be cellulosic – derived from cor...
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NET News Signature Story: Best of 2012: Smoking key to...
Lung cancer kills more people in the United States each year than any other type of cancer, and it affects some racial groups more than others. The reason for this disparity goes beyond tobacco, but experts believe that smoking is the best place to begin closing the gap.
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New Social Studies standards headed to Nebraska schools
Now that the State Board of Education has adopted new Social Studies standards, it will be up to local districts to adopt or strengthen them and implement them.
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NET Radio Signature Story: Best of 2012: Youth Obesity
Overview of youth obesity problem in Nebraska and nationally.
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NET Radio Signature Story: Best of 2012: LBJ Pilot
Air Force pilot Gerry Pritchard flew President Lyndon Johnson and Johnny Cash during career.
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NET Radio Signature Story: Vet Stories
Veterans talk about life after military service for an oral history project.
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NET News Signature Story: How much is organic...
To help ensure consumers get what they generally pay extra for, the USDA next month will enforce closer oversight over these farms. But for some small family farms, the cost and time that go into securing the “organic” label is coming into question.
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How Minden Became Christmas City
The history of Minden Nebraska's downtown holiday light display
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NET News Signature Story: Fiscal cliff could hit some...
Congress and the White House appear far from a deal to avoid going over the fiscal cliff at the end of the year. The sudden changes in taxes and spending would hit home for some farm families and people depending on support programs in the farm bill.
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NET News Signature Story: Planned Parenthood Expansion...
Almost forty years after abortion was legalized in the United States, controversy over the procedure remains relatively unchanged. Planned Parenthood, often seen as a standard-bearer for abortion rights, is looking to open new clinics in cities across Nebraska, but reaction runs the gamut; while so...
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Views of Keystone XL pipeline clash in Albion
Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality held its only hearing on the alternative route around the Sandhills for the proposed TransCanada Keystone XL pipeline.
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Rural Electric Cars
Thursday, November 29, 2012 - 18:32
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NET News Signature Story: Small farms possibly...
The U.S. Department of Agriculture updates its ag census every five years and is preparing to send farmers new surveys in December. One trend to watch is the growing number of small farms. They are easy to miss and some would rather not be counted.
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Ernie Chambers' return to Nebraska Legislature sparks...
After being forced out four years ago by term limits, Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers is returning to the Nebraska Legislature in January, sparking anticipation and raising questions about how he'll approach his new/old job.
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NET News Signature Story: Oh, Christmas tree
In the Dr. Seuss book it was the Grinch who stole Christmas, but for some Iowa tree growers, it may be the drought who eventually steals the Holiday.
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NET Radio Signature Story: Nebraska soldiers helping...
A dozen Nebraska Army National Guard soldiers are in the middle of a year-long deployment to Afghanistan. But their mission is more about farming, than fighting. In today’s Signature Story, Mike Tobias talks to soldiers who are part of what’s called an Afghan Agribusiness Development Team.
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Sen. Ernie Chambers leaving the Legislature
Sen. Ernie Chambers, the longest-serving state legislator in Nebraska history, is leaving the Unicameral
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Sen. Ernie Chambers leaving the Legislature
Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha, the longest-serving state legislator in Nebraska history, is leaving the Legislature.
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NET News Signature Story: Local and global production...
The United States also has a history of food aid and products grown here certainly have a role in helping with relief efforts. But sending corn, soybeans and other food abroad is just part of the equation when it comes to figuring out how we’ll feed the nine billion people projected to be on the Ear...
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NET News Signature Story: For some Nebraska ranchers and...
At the same time extreme weather like flooding and drought is decreasing available land in Nebraska for farming and ranching, prices for agricultural products are climbing. You might think that combination wouldn’t bode well for conservation efforts, but in fact, experts say more and more landowner...
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Dealing with an Endangered Ecosystem
Interview with nature photographer Michael Forsberg on threats to the Great Plains. Forsberg worked with NET Television on the upcoming documentary "Great Plains: America's Lingering Wild."
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NET News Signature Story: Food debates are increasingly...
The debate surrounding what we eat and how it’s made is nothing new. The various sides are reaching out in new ways and in new places. Even when the opposing camps actually reach out to each other, though, middle ground is still proving hard to find.
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Dustbowl Reading List
"The Grapes of Wrath" continues to be the best known book about the dustbowl era. But there are many others.
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Governor picks feds to run Nebraska's health exchange
Gov. Dave Heineman announced Thursday he's decided the federal government should run the marketplace where Nebraskan can get subsidized policies health insurance policies in 2014.
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Health care future corrected version
Thursday, November 15, 2012 - 17:20
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Nebraska faces big decisions on health care
Nebraska must decide whether or not to expand Medicaid and whether the state or the federal government will supervise its health care exchange.
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Creating Awareness of Concussion Symptoms
Dr. Joann Schaefer, Nebraska's chief medical officer, discusses the new Nebraska Concussion Awareness Law. She talks of the importance for coaches, athletic trainers and parents to recognize and address concussion symptoms in youth athletes.
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NET News Signature Story: Dust Bowl memories offer...
The Dust Bowl of the 1930s left an indelible mark on the Midwest and on history. It is the drought against which all others are measured. And it was a man-made disaster that could still offers lessons today.
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NET News Signature Story: Farm bill is more than...
With the election over, lawmakers now return to Washington for the final weeks of the 112th Congress. Their schedule is packed, but House majority leader Eric Cantor has said addressing the now expired Farm Bill is on the agenda. But it’s not just farmers facing the challenge of planning for an unkn...
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NET News Signature Story: Experts Say Nebraska's Massive...
Wildfires ravaged hundreds of thousands of acres of Nebraska land in the last few months, but while the flames have been quenched, the damage remains – and experts say this isn’t the last we’ve seen of major wildfires. NET News reporter Hilary Stohs-Krause has more on the recovery process – and less...
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Election Impact for Republicans and Democrats
UNL political science professor John Hibbing looks at the impact of the 2012 elections for Republicans and Democrats in Nebraska and nationally.
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