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THURSDAY MAY 7TH

NORFOLK– Residents of Woodland Park who’ve been dealing with flooding problems for years don’t have a solution to their issue yet, but they may be closer. The Norfolk City Council hosted Woodland Park residents, as well as various city officials and representatives of the Stanton County S.I.D. Wednesday for an almost two-hour work session. They were presented a report from a consulting firm, which showed that steps taken by the S.I.D. in Woodland Park to improve the storm sewer system have helped stem the flow of water into resident’s basements, but the problem still exists. City Administrator Shane Weidner proposed that the City and S.I.D. come up with a solution to the problem that would involve investment from both parties, to prevent residents from having to spend any more money dredging out basements. The S.I.D. representatives at the session said they would be open to that, and both sides have agreed to meet at a later date to find an answer.

NORFOLK– Does the Norfolk School District need to do more to make sure their interests are front and center at the state level? Norfolk Superintendent Dr. Marlene Uhing revealed Monday that district officials are discussing possibly hiring a part-time lobbyist to better publicize the needs of the district. Uhing says it’s something the district is only discussing right now, as they have many more questions they need answered before moving forward.
Uhing says the district is currently a member of some statewide organizations that lobby on behalf of educational institutions in general. She says district officials will be discussing the issue further at future meetings.

NORFOLK– For the second year in a row, Northeast Community College has been name among the top 10 percent of community colleges in the nation. The Aspen Institute is an invitation-only member organization that focuses on quality of education. Northeast President Dr. Michael Chipps says belonging to the organization is very competitive. Dr. Chipps says along with the prestigious honor of belonging to the Aspen Institute, the membership is also a great recruiting tool as students choose a college that offers high quality education.

NORFOLK– After 40 years of service to Northeast Community College, Dean of Health and Ag Services, Chuck Pohlman is retiring early this summer. Pohlman helped establish the Ag program at Northeast in 1972 with just 3 students. That has since grown to 200 students. Pohlman says among the list of changes he has seen over his 40 years are changes in technology and the growing number of women involved in agriculture. A successor to Pohlman has yet to be announced.

WEDNESDAY MAY 16TH

ALBION – Residents in Boone and Merrick Counties are getting a chance this week to get their first look at the new proposed route for the Keystone XL Pipeline. The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality is holding information sessions Wednesday in Albion and Thursday in Central City. DEQ and Transcanada officials are expected to be on-hand to answer questions about the new route for the pipeline which will carry Canadian tar sands oil to Texas. The meetings will be held at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Albion Wednesday and the Central City Community Room on Thursday. Both meeting will run from 4 to 7 p.m.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Nebraska Republicans are rallying around Valentine state Sen. Deb Fischer, the winner of a tough U.S. Senate primary race for a seat targeted by national party leaders. Fischer won endorsements Wednesday from Gov. Dave Heineman as well as her two top primary opponents, Attorney General Jon Bruning and State Treasurer Don Stenberg. Fischer will square off in November against Democratic candidate Bob Kerrey, a former U.S. Senator and Nebraska governor. Kerrey is barnstorming the state Wednesday with stops in Omaha, South Sioux City, Lincoln, Grand Island and Scottsbluff.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Nelson is endorsing Bob Kerrey to replace him in the senate. The retiring U.S. Senator from Nebraska said in a conference call Wednesday that he’s looking forward to what he calls the “stark contrast” between former Sen. Kerrey and Republican nominee Deb Fischer. Nelson says yesterday’s primary was decided not by a campaign, but by special interest groups, specifically the $200,000 ad campaign started by former Omaha businessman Joe Ricketts.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Nebraska Republicans have chosen Mitt Romney as their choice for the GOP presidential nomination. However, the state’s 32 delegates to the Republican National Convention will be determined at the state convention on July 14th. Romney also won the vote in Oregon yesterday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) – U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry has won the Republican nomination for Nebraska’s 1st Congressional District, defeating Dennis Parker and Jessica Lynn Turek. Fortenberry is seeking his fifth term in Congress. Neither Turek nor Parker raised any money for this year’s primary. Fortenberry will be a heavy favorite against Democrat Korey Reiman in November’s general election. Fortenberry won the 2010 general election with 71 percent of the vote.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) – U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith has won the Republican nomination for Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District, defeating little known candidate Bob Lingenfelter. Lingenfelter raised no money for the race. Smith enters the general election with more than $500,000 cash on hand. Smith is seeking his fourth term in Congress. Smith won the 2010 general election with 70 percent of the vote. In the November general election, Smith faces Democrat Mark Sullivan, who ran unopposed in the Democratic primary.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska’s top election official says turnout for the primary topped 25 percent, and the percentage will grow once all provisional ballots are counted. Secretary of State John Gale said Wednesday he was pleasantly surprised by the number of registered voters who showed up at the polls. Preliminary figures show 24 counties had at least 35 percent turnout. Boone County had the highest, with nearly 60 percent of registered voters casting a ballot. Gale predicted a very high turnout for the November general election.

MADISON-- Madison County’s voter turnout Tuesday was higher than the State average. County Clerk Nancy Scheer says the unofficial voter turnout was 28.5 percent, which is the highest out of the past five primary elections. Scheer says there are less than 20 provisional ballots yet to count along with a handful of early voting ballots. The Madison County Canvassing board will take care of counting the ballots when they convene on Thursday. The voter turnout is actually higher than the overall State turnout, which was 25.8%.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Norfolk attorney David Copple and Columbus veterinarian Jim Pillen have won the primary race for the University of Nebraska Board of Regents seat that covers northeast Nebraska. The District 3 regent hopefuls were the two top vote-getters in Tuesday’s primary. Manufacturing executive Tony Raimondo Jr. was ousted from the race. The candidates are vying to replace Regent Chuck Hassebrook, who resigned from the board to seek the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate before later opting to drop out of that race.

NORFOLK – Political newcomer Christian Ohl will be representing District 2 on the Madison County Board of Commissioners. Ohl won the Republican Commissioner Primary race Tuesday. There is no Democratic candidate, so Ohl will be running unopposed on the November ballot. Ohl says he’s looking forward to working with the other two Commissioners to help develop Madison County. Ohl picked up 52% of the votes. Incumbent Marty Griffith finished second with 26%, followed by Rod Hughes with 21% of the vote.

NORFOLK – The incumbent is among the two candidates moving on in Norfolk’s Ward 4 City Council race. Current Councilman Thad Murren picked up the most votes out of three candidates on Tuesday and moves on to the general election. He’ll face challenger Libby McKay, who finished in second. Michelle Sanchez was eliminated.

NORFOLK – The race for Norfolk School Board has been narrowed from seven to six. All three incumbents, Joel Carlson, Clark Froehlich and Alfredo Ramirez, picked up enough votes to move on to November. Among the challengers they’ll face is Tuesday’s top vote-getter Sandy Wolfe, as well as fellow challengers Arnie Robinson and Bob Waite. Troy Brooks was eliminated.

WEST POINT – Voters in Cuming County have voted to raise city sales taxes in all four cities. Voters in West Point, Wisner, Bancroft and Beemer all approved various city sales tax increases. West Point has established an economic development plan for the city, which will utilize a 1/2% sales tax increase. Beemer established a similar economic development program using a 1/2% sales tax, and passed a separate 1% sales tax to be used for infrastructure improvements. Wisner will be adding a 1 1/2% sales tax and Bancroft is adding a 1% tax for various capital improvements in each city.

PIERCE – Voters in Pierce County know the difference one vote can make. The Republican race for Pierce County District 1 Commissioner was decided by a single vote. Marvin Elwood picked up 183 votes to Dan Stark’s 182. Roland Frahm finished in third place. There is no Democratic candidate in Pierce County, so Elwood will be running unopposed in November. Election officials say Pierce County saw a 30% voter turnout on Tuesday.

OAKLAND– Residents in the Oakland-Craig School district have voted to issue $7 million dollars in bonds to pay for renovations and improvements to the Oakland-Craig Elementary School. In Tuesday’s primary, 458 voted in favor of the proposal while 369 voted in opposition. The district will add about 25-thousand square feet to the school with the funds and will also upgrade the heating and cooling system.

ALBION– A $20.8 million school bond issue in the Boone Central school district failed during Tuesday’s primary. 1,186 voters were against the measure while 570 were in favor. The bond issue would have paid for a new high school building and allowed for the renovation of the existing facility to be used for elementary and middle school students along with the district’s athletic facilities.

LINCOLN– In the race for Nebraska State Board of Education, District 3, it was Tom Schommer who garnered the most votes Tuesday over Rachel Wise. Schommer had 16,653 votes while Wise had 13,997. Both will move on to the November general election.

LINCOLN– The incumbent will move on in the race for District 17 of the Nebraska Legislature. Dave Bloomfield was the top vote getter with 1,835 votes while challenger Van Phillips received 1004. Both will advance to the November election. Challengers Ron Hartnett and Derrick Barclay will not move on.

LINCOLN– In the race for Legislative District 19, currently held by Senator Mike Flood of Norfolk, both of the primary candidates will move on to the November General Election. Jim Scheer recieved 4,326 votes while William Goodpasture received 1,206.

NEWMAN GROVE– The Mayor of Newman Grove will NOT be the subject of a recall election. In Tuesday’s election, 160 Newman Grove voters said they did not want to recall their Mayor while 90 said they do.

MONDAY MAY 14TH

NORFOLK– Voters in Norfolk’s Ward 4 will have an important city council decision to make when they head to the primary polls on Tuesday. A contested race for a spot on the city council will ask voters to narrow the selection from three candidates to two. The candidates include incumbent Thad Murren and challengers Libby McKay and Michelle Sanchez. When it comes to issues they think need to be addressed within the city, each of the candidates have different ideas. Thad Murren says city project and grant funding top his list. Meanwhile, challenger Libby McKay says along with a focus on new businesses and residents, one of her main concerns is crime.
And Michelle Sanchez also agrees that crime needs to be addressed along with city street improvements. The top two vote getters will move on to the November general election. Polls will be open from 8am to 8pm on Tuesday. To hear full length interviews with each of the candidates, visit our On-Demand Candidate Forum featured on the news page of our web site.

NORFOLK– Seven candidates are vying for three open spots on the Norfolk School Board. Among those seven is Sandy Wolfe. Wolfe is an educational consultant, and says she feels getting students prepared for a 21st century education is important. Wolfe says the Board needs to do all it can to create the best students possible. Wolfe says she thinks the School Board needs an open line of communication not just with the community, but with the teachers as well. Wolfe is on the May Primary ballot along with incumbents Joel Carlson, Clark Froehlich and Alfredo Ramirez, and challengers Troy Brooks, Bob Waite and Sandy Wolfe.

NORFOLK– Among the challengers for the three open seats on Norfolk’s School Board is Bob Waite. Waite is a retired Norfolk Public Schools Administrator and has spent the last year consulting the Columbus school district with their ongoing budget cuts. Waite says the Norfolk School Board needs to make sure that as it focuses on 21st century learning, it doesn’t lose sight of the basics of education. As NPS will likely face additional budget cuts this coming year, Waite says he would like to see the community more involved in the process of deciding what the school board should cut.
Waite is on the May Primary ballot along with incumbents Joel Carlson, Clark Froehlich and Alfredo Ramirez, and challengers Troy Brooks, Bob Waite and Sandy Wolfe.

NORFOLK– One of the four challengers for the Norfolk Public Board of Education is Arnie Robinson. Robinson is currently executive vice president at Norfolk Iron and Metal. Robinson says he believes that if the Norfolk School District is going to properly educate students in the 21st century, it needs to focus less on technology and more on the basics. Robinson says he also believes the district can do more to strengthen its ag education and FFA programs. Robinson is on the May Primary ballot along with incumbents Joel Carlson, Clark Froehlich and Alfredo Ramirez, and challengers Troy Brooks, Bob Waite and Sandy Wolfe.

O’NEILL, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission says a section of the Cowboy Trail in north-central Nebraska has reopened following repair work. The trail from the western city limits of O’Neill to a mile west of town once again is available for public use. The commission says the Cowboy Trail used to be part of the Chicago & North Western railroad’s Cowboy Line. The trail runs 321 miles across northern Nebraska, from Norfolk to Chadron.

UNDATED– This year marks the 50th anniversary of the late Johnny Carson taking over The Tonight Show from Jack Parr and the 20th anniversary of Carson’s retirement. Carson was born in Corning, Iowa but grew up and went to school in Norfolk, a place he called his hometown. To mark the occasion, a special television program produced by Emmy-winning filmmaker Peter Jones will premiere nationally Monday night on PBS. Locally, the program called “American Masters Johnny Carson: King of Late Night” will be shown on Nebraska Public Television at 8pm. The program will include pieces from Carson’s personal archives along with 45 original interviews with greats such as Jay Leno, David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, Dick Cavett, Ellen Degeneres, Jerry Seinfeld and others.

SATURDAY MAY 12TH

NORFOLK, Neb. (AP) – A mail processing center in Norfolk that was slated for closure has gotten a reprieve. The center had been scheduled to close Tuesday as part of an effort by the U.S. Postal Service to cut costs. But, the U.S Senate passed a measure last month that gives the postal service an $11 billion cash infusion. Although the bill awaits approval by the U.S. House, the possibility of the funding has prompted the postal service to delay the closures. Spokesman Brian Sperry says that there will be no closures in the coming week and that there will likely be a revised list of closures. The postal service had predicted it will lose a record $14.1 billion this year.

NORFOLK – State Treasurer Don Stenberg is making his final push to be the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate. Stenberg stopped in Norfolk Friday as part of a statewide tour, touting his credentials as the candidate to take over for outgoing U.S. Senator Ben Nelson. There have been many high-profile endrosements related to this race: Rick Santorum for Jon Bruning, Sarah Palin and Jeff Fortenberry for Deb Fischer, and Stenberg has even garnered support from current Senators Rand Paul and Jim DeMint. Stenberg says that shows how important this primary is not just to Nebraska, but the nation. Stenberg also weighed in on same-sex marriage, saying he believes marriage should be defined as between a man and a woman, and that he supports a constitutional amendment that would say so.

LINCOLN– Nebraska Secretary of State, John Gale, has issued a call for action for Nebraskans to get out and vote in good numbers during next Tuesday’s primary. Gale says sadly, the expectations are for a low turnout. However, they are hoping that Nebraskans perform their civic duty and produce a solid turnout. Gale is not using a specific projection for statewide turnout for the election. The Secretary says the trend of low turnout in statewide primary elections is causing increasing concern. In four of the last five primary elections, voter turnout has been less than 25 percent of registered voters. The polls will be open from 8am to 8pm next Tuesday, May 15th.

STANTON – Voters in Stanton’s Kingsburg precinct will have a polling site for next Tuesday’s election. The Stanton County Clerk’s office says county notice of poll sites incorrectly listed Kingsburg as a mail-only precinct. Clerk’s office officials say voters in the Kingsburg district will be able to vote in person at the Senior Citizens Center on N. Main St. in Pilger.

OAKLAND, Neb. (AP) – A bond issue of nearly $7 million would pay for renovations and improvements at Oakland-Craig Elementary School in Oakland. The Oakland-Craig district in eastern Nebraska has put the bond measure on Tuesday’s primary election ballot. Superintendent Joe Peitzmeier says one class of fourth-graders and special education students, as well as two fifth- and sixth-grade classes, are housed in the junior high/high school building. He says that creates potential safety problems for children crossing U.S. Highway 77 to go between buildings and cuts classroom time.
If voters were to approve the bond issue, the district would add about 25,000 square feet to the elementary building, mostly for classrooms. Upgrades to the elementary building would include a new heating and cooling system.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A Northeast Nebraska student is among seven that will be honored at a lunch Monday where former ABC anchor Bob Woodruff and his wife, Lee, will speak about overcoming tragedy. Hannah Wright of Neligh is among the students from eastern receiving $5,000 D.J.’s hero scholarships in recognition of their commitment to others. The awards are named after D.J. Sokol, son of David and Peggy Sokol, who died at age 18 after battling cancer. Monday’s speaker, Bob Woodruff was injured by a roadside bomb while covering the war in Iraq. He and his wife wrote a book about the injury and Woodruff’s recovery.

FRIDAY MAY 11TH

NORFOLK– State Senator Deb Fischer of Valentine is a US Senate candidate who has built her list of endorsements this week. Prior to this week, Deb Fischer already had endorsements from groups such as the Nebraska Cattlemen, Nebraska Right to Life and the rural electric association. Then, this past Wednesday, Fischer received the endorsement of former Alaska Governor Sara Palin. And, just yesterday she received the endorsement of Nebraska Congressman Jeff Fortenberry. While in Norfolk Thursday, Fischer says Fortenberry’s nod tops her list. Meanwhile, one of Fischer oppenents, Attorney General Jon Bruning, received a high profile endorsement of his own this week. Former Presidential Candidate Rick Santorum gave him the thumbs up. Along with Bruning, Fischer will face Nebraska State Treasuer Don Stenberg, Schuyler Businessman Pat Flynn, Omaha resident Spencer Zimmerman and Lincoln resident Sharyn Elander.

GENOA, Neb. (AP) - Authorities say a Nebraska pilot suffered only minor injuries when his newly purchased plane ended up in trees after a botched landing. The accident occurred Wednesday morning near Genoa Municipal Airport. Airport authority chairman John Hall says Donald Kilday applied too much power as he attempted to land. The plane bounced and crossed nearby Nebraska Highway 39. It ended up sitting nose down on an angle in some low trees and thick bushes. Kilday was treated at Genoa Community Hospital for minor cuts.

NORFOLK– Northeast Community College will hold their spring graduation on their Norfolk Campus this Saturday, handing out 754 degrees. The processional will begin at 10:20 with the ceremony slated to begin at 10:30. This will be the first Graduation ceremony for new Northeast President Dr Michael Chipps, who says he is impressed with how well coordinated the event is. The Northeast graduation ceremonies will continue on Monday when 86 Adult Basic Education students will receive their diplomas. College officials say that a large majority of the A-B-E students have indicated that they will use Northeast to continue their education.

NORFOLK– The National Association of Letter Carriers will hold their 20th annual “Stamp Out Hunger” food drive all across the country this Saturday. The Norfolk branch of the association has been participating for the past ten years and will once again collect food items for those in need locally. Residential postal customers are encouraged to leave a bag of non-perishable food outside your door Saturday and the local mail carriers will pick it up when they deliver your mail.

THURSDAY MAY 10TH

O’NEILL– Hundreds were on hand in O’Neill Wednesday for the first of four public meetings over the latest proposed route of the Keystone XL Pipeline. The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality has been commissioned by the legislature to conduct an environmental review of the route. Large detailed maps of the route were laid out for folks to inspect, and even write on as one way to give their input. Director of the Nebraska DEQ, Mike Linder, tells US92 the public review and comment period is the first of a five-phase plan by the DEQ, which will last anywhere from 6 to 9 months. The ultimate decision will be up to Governor Dave Heineman who will have 30 days to issue a ruling based on the DEQ’s opinion. In an effort to avoiod the sandhills, the newest proposed route is a 2000 foot corridoor throught the middle of Holt County, following north of highway 20 and 275 before heading into Antelope County.

O’NEILL– The Keystone XL pipeline developer, Transcanada, is also attending the many public meetings over the proposed route. Terry Cunha of Transcanada says one of the misconceptions residents have is that they will be forced to sell part of their land to make way for the pipeline. Cunha says “The land owner will always own their property. We’re not buying anyone’s land or taking it. All we’re looking for is an easement to allow us to build a pipeline on their property. The land owner will be compensated for that easement, but at all times they will maintain ownership of that property and be able to use it.” The next public meeting is at the Neligh-Oakdale High School Thursday from 4 to 7pm. Meetings will resume next Wednesday at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Albion and next Thursday at the Community Room in Central City.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A delegation of Norfolk city officials were in Washington D.C. this week, getting some face time with federal officials as a way to help promote the city and its needs. The two-day trip was put together by the Norfolk Area Chamber, and includes a group of nine city and business leaders. Chamber President Dennis Houston says the he hopes the trip will raise Norfolk’s profile nationally. Houston says the delegation met with Sen. Mike Johanns as well as members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. He says a proposed online retail sales tax was among the topics discussed.

WEDNESDAY MAY 9TH

NORFOLK – Alfredo Ramirez is among the three incumbents in the race for Norfolk Public School Board. Ramirez has 13 years of experience on the school board and works as a social worker in Norfolk. Ramirez says he’s excited about the direction the district can go in fostering a 21st Century curriculum. Ramirez says the current School Board has the qualities that he looks for in school administrators.

NORFOLK – The seven candidates for Norfolk Public School Board met for a candidate forum Tuesday evening. The forum, sponsored by the Madison County Republican Party, featured each candidate answering five different questions about the district. Each candidate expressed that they’d like to see improved communication from the school board in the future. Many also expressed frustrations with the current formula for state aid to schools, which has caused Norfolk to lose 10% of its revenue in the last two years. The most divisive topic seemed to be the Norfolk FFA program. The three incumbents all agreed that they have taken steps to keep the FFA program vibrant in Norfolk by utilizing co-ops with Stanton High School and Northeast Community College. All of the candidates agreed that they’d like to see Norfolk’s Ag Education continue to be a top priority.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A delegation of Norfolk city officials are in Washington D.C., getting some face time with federal officials as a way to help promote the city and its needs. The two-day trip was put together by the Norfolk Area Chamber, and includes a group of nine city and business leaders. Chamber President Dennis Houston says the he hopes the trip will raise Norfolk’s profile nationally. Houston says the delegation met with Sen. Mike Johanns as well as members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. He says a proposed online retail sales tax was among the topics discussed.

ALBION – After much discussion, a committee of local leaders in Albion have recommended that the City build a new pool rather than renovate the existing facility. Research by the committee revealed the existing Albion pool, built in 1955, was out of code compliance and would cost $1.8 million to renovate, among other issues. The group is recommending Fuller Park as the site of the new facility that is estimated to cost $3.6 million dollars. 80 percent of the estimated cost is proposed to be financed with a bond amount of $2.95 million that will be considered by Albion voters at a special election on July 10th. The final design was the 8th design concept from Burbach Aquatics.

NORFOLK – The Nebraska Center for Preparedness Education is holding its 10th Annual Preparedness Symposia in Norfolk Tuesday and Wednesday. The Symposia is a series of presentations designed to help first responders and law enforcement officials and anyone else who may be faced with some type of disaster. Officials say the subjects cover a wide range of topics from bed bugs to storm spotting to even the threat of bio-terrorism. Nebraska Lieutenant Governor Rick Sheehy was the keynote speaker. He says the last ten years have shown that seemingly impossible threats are very real and need to be prepared for. The Symposia is on its second leg of a four city tour, with the final two forums set for Omaha and Kearney this summer.

NORFOLK – The prelude to the 2012 Cornhusker State Games will begin in less than one month and a registration deadline is approaching. Pat Haggedorn with the Nebraska Sports Council says his year’s Torch Run starts June 6th at the Wyoming border west of Scottsbluff and will zig-zag across the state, reaching Lincoln on June 29th. Anyone interested in running a mile or more can go to cornhuskerstategames.com and register, but it must be done by May 25th. Haggedorn says they are welcoming runners of all ages and skill levels. The Torch Run will be between Columbus and Norfolk on June 20th and will travel between Norfolk and Wayne on June 21st. The 2012 Cornhusker State Games will include more than 65 games and events July 20-29. Early entry registration deadline is June 20th with an absolute deadline of June 29th. More information can be found online.

TUESDAY MAY 8TH

DAKOTA DUNES, S.D. (AP) - A South Dakota beef company says it plans to close processing plants in three states because of the controversy surrounding a product that critics have dubbed “pink slime.” Beef Products Inc. spokesman Rich Jochum said Monday that 650 jobs will be lost when it closes its plants in Amarillo, Texas; Garden City, Kansas; and Waterloo Iowa. The closures will be effective May 25. The plant in South Sioux City, Neb., will remain open. The company blames what it calls unfounded attacks over a product that it calls “lean, finely textured beef.” In the process, bits of beef are heated and treated with a small amount of ammonia. Beef Products is based in Dakota Dunes, S.D.

NORFOLK– With a week to go before the May primaries, candidates are hitting the campaign trails hard. Attorney General Jon Bruning is one of six republican candidates for U.S. Senator Ben Nelson’s seat. Bruning says he’s planning numerous stops all over Nebraska in the coming week. He says despite the hectic schedule he’s going to relish the opportunity to discuss issues with Nebraskans. Bruning says the people he talks to seem to be most concerned with the federal government getting too big. Bruning made stops in Norfolk and Columbus over the weekend. He’s on the primary ballot against State Treasurer Don Stenberg, State Senator Deb Fischer, Schulyer Businessman Pat Flynn, Omaha-native Spencer Zimmerman and Lincoln’s Sharon Elander.

NORFOLK– Two political groups are touring potential swing states trying to get more voters involved in this year’s election, and their tour came through Norfolk Monday. The Family Research Council and Heritage Foundation brought a nationwide bus tour to Northeast Community College Monday, looking to get potential voters registered. Quena Gonzalez is the Director of State and Local Affairs for the Family Council. He says the tour is about getting voters active in the election process. The Values Bus also made stops in Columbus and South Sioux City Monday, before moving on to Iowa on Tuesday.

NORFOLK – Current Norfolk School Board President Clark Froehlich is among the candidates seeking re-election this year. Froelich is among seven candidates on next week’s primary ballot. Froelich says he wants to continue to stress a 21st Century education. He says that includes letting the way students are taught evolve. Froehlich says the school board will need to stay fiscally responsible, as they are likely to struggle again with their budget.

NORFOLK– Area residents are invited to an event tonight centered on the race for three seats on the Norfolk Public School Board of Education. The Madison County Republican Party will be hosting a forum for the candidates at the Divots Conference Center this evening at 7pm. There are a total of seven candidates in the race, including incumbents Joel Carlson, Clark Froelich and Aflredo Ramierez. Challengers include Arnie Robinson, Bob Waite, Sandy Wolfe and Troy Brooks. All but one of the candidates will move on to the November general election to fill three open seats.

NORFOLK – The ongoing construction on 25th street in Norfolk reaches it’s next phase this week. City officials say 25th street between Taylor Avenue and Norfolk avenue will remain closed, and the intersection of 25th and Norfolk Avenue will also close beginning this Wednesday. Motorists will be detoured around the closed intersection. Construction is expected to last between one and two months. City officials say 25th street from Benjamin Avenue to Maple will also remain closed during this time as well.

NORFOLK– A Norfolk based organization says it’s increasing the city’s tax base. Neighborworks Northeast Nebraska presented its annual report to the Norfolk City Council Monday. Roger Nadrchal with Neighborworks says his group has assisted 320 families purchase their first homes since they were founded in 1994. Nadrchal says those homes have created an additional $188,000 in additional tax revenue for the city. Nadrchal says the numbers show that even small groups can make a big difference in the community. Nadrchal says Neighborworks NE is also involved in numerous community revitalization projects over its seven-county coverage area. He says his group is planning a sub-division project near Columbus in the near future.

MONDAY MAY 7TH

HADAR– A 46-year-old St. Paul woman died in a two vehicle crash north of Norfolk, along highway 81 early Sunday morning. The Nebraska State Patrol says around 1:30am a southbound car driven by Bonnie Stevenson of St. Paul crossed the center line about four miles north of the Hadar Spur for unknown reasons and collided head on with an oncoming pickup. Stevenson was pronounced dead at the scene while the driver of the pickup, 54-year-old Eugene Marksmeier of Coleridge, was transported to Faith Regional Health Services with unknown injuries. Marksmeier has since been transferred Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha where he’s listed in fair condition. The crash closed down part of the highway while the investigation and cleanup was conducted.

NORFOLK– The investigation is continuing into the cause of a fire at a vacant home in Norfolk early Saturday. Norfolk Fire Captain Lyle Lutt says crews were called to 211 south 9th street just after 2am. Lutt says due to the construction of the home it was difficult to safely access the fire which rapidly spread. 24 firefighters spent approximately 3 ½ hours bringing the blaze under control. Damage is estimated at $30,000 to the unoccupied home owned by Lon and Patricia Lura of Norfolk. The cause s still under investigation. No one was injured.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) – A small Nebraska school district will continue its tradition of a student-led prayer during graduation despite pressure from ACLU Nebraska to end the practice. The parent committee organizing next Sunday’s ceremony told the Columbus Telegram that Lakeview High School’s graduating seniors have requested the prayer be included in the program.
The ACLU sent a letter to the 685-student school district in November complaining the prayers at graduation ceremonies violated students’ First Amendment right to religious freedom. The Columbus-based district’s graduation ceremonies have been officially parent-run and voluntary since a 2001 ACLU complaint about the prayers. The district has tried to remedy the latest complaint by further separating the graduation ceremony from the school. ACLU Nebraska legal director Amy Miller said the changes aren’t enough.

NORFOLK– Schuyler businessman Pat Flynn says he is dedicated to serving the people of Nebraska in the US Senate, so much so that he sold off his business before launching his campaign. Flynn is one of six Republican candidates on the May primary ballot. While in Norfolk last week, Flynn said he is the best candidate to take Ben Nelson’s seat because he is a citizen leader and not a career politician, an issue he says is plaguing Washington.
Flynn says his experience in the business world, specifically the insurance industry, will help him lead Nebraskans in many areas, including healthcare.
Flynn will face five other republican candidates in next week’s May primary. Candidates include Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Treasurer Don Stenberg, State Senator Deb Fischer, Omaha resident Spencer Zimmerman an Lincoln resident Sharyn Elander. The winner will face Democrat Bob Kerry in November.

NORFOLK– Three incumbents are among the seven running for Norfolk School Board this year. Joel Carlson is one of the three looking to get re-elected to his post. Carlson is a Norfolk lawyer, who says he wants to continue focusing on making sure the Norfolk School District reflects a 21st Century curriculum. Carlson says technology is only part of that equation.
Carlson says the school board can only be successful by putting the good of the district before all else. Carlson is on the May primary ballot along with fellow incumbents Clark Froelich and Alfredo Ramirez and challengers Arnie Robinson, Bob Waite, Sandy Wolfe and Troy Brooks. All but one will move on to the general election in November.

SATURDAY MAY 5TH

NORFOLK – Many residents in Norfolk were awoken around 2 a.m. Saturday to the sound of the city’s tornado sirens going off. While there were a number of severe storms that rolled through the area last night, the siren didn’t have anything to do with it. Officials with the Norfolk Police Division say the sounding of the sirens was an error and was not prompted by any emergency.

UNDATED – Many storm sirens did sound around Northeast Nebraska with good reason on Friday. Numerous storm systems caused tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings well into Friday evening. Funnel clouds were spotted in both Garfield and Loup Counties Friday. There’s no word on damages related to those storms. Numerous cities reported anywhere from ping pong ball to gold ball sized hail across the region. Law enforcement officials near Pender and Scotia reported wind gusts of at least 50 miles an hour.

WASHINGTON (AP) - A Canadian company that wants to build the disputed Keystone XL pipeline in the U.S. says it has submitted a new application for the project after changing the route to avoid environmentally sensitive land in Nebraska. TransCanada says it filed a new application Friday for the project to carry oil from western Canada through Holt, Antelope, Boone and Nance counties, before eventually heading to refineries in Texas. President Barack Obama blocked the project earlier this year, citing uncertainty over the Nebraska route. TransCanada proposed a new route last month that would veer east around the Sandhills region.

NORFOLK – The issue of gun rights took center stage at a forum in Norfolk Friday. State Treasurer and candidate for U.S. Senate Don Stenberg was the special guest speaker at the event hosted by the group Gun Owners of America. Stenberg was critical of U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, who has drawn fire from gun lobbyists for what they call anti-2nd Amendment views and actions. Stenberg says he was opposed to Holder’s appointment to Attorney General from the start. Stenberg said if elected to U.S. Senate, he would make defending the 2nd Amendment a top priority. Stenberg is on the May 15 primary ballot against Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Senator Deb Fischer and Schuyler Businessman Pat Flynn.

NORFOLK– Some area residents are being recognized for their efforts helping the Salvation Army. The Northeast Nebraska Salvation Army held its annual Civic Luncheon in Norfolk on Thursday. At the event, Salvation Army officials handed out their Citizen of the Year award to Jim Bradford, Jr., their Excellence in Volunteering award to Carol Frisch and their Volunteer Bell Ringing Award to the Optimist Clubs. The luncheon also featured Norfolk native and current NFL Referee Clete Blakeman as keynote speaker.

NORFOLK– Thanks to a generous donation from the John W. Carson foundation, Faith Regional Health Services’ Carson Cancer Center is the recipient of two new transport vans. The donation was announced Thursday by cancer center officials. Dr. Mohammed Zahra says the Carson Cancer Center has always provided free transportation to patients in need, but these new vans will provide a new level of comfort for patients going through a very challenging time in their lives. The late Johnny Carson and the Carson Foundation have donated almost 10-million-dollars to the Carson Cancer Center since 1987, including the new vans. Most recently, the Carson Foundation gave more than one-million-dollars toward technology upgrades scheduled for installation in 2012.

THURSDAY MAY 3RD

TYNDALL, S.D. (AP) – A Niobrara couple is to stand trial in South Dakota later this year for allegedly starting a fire that destroyed two businesses and damaged a third. Charles and Kimberly Johnson pleaded not guilty Wednesday to second-degree arson and reckless burning. A weeklong trial is set to begin Aug. 13 in Tyndall, S.D. The couple is accused of starting the fire in Springfield, S.D. to collect insurance. The Johnsons owned Libby’s Steakhouse, one of the buildings destroyed in the October 2010 fire. They each could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

NORFOLK – Northeast Community College’s commencement on May 12th will feature a group of historic grads. This graduating class includes the first two-year grads from the J. Paul and Eleanor McIntosh Nursing School that opened on NECC’s campus in 2010. Members of that nursing class were honored at a ceremony in Norfolk Thursday. Stacy Hugo came up to Norfolk from Lincoln for the new nursing program. Hugo says she feels the program will give her a leg up in the job market. The McIntosh building is a collaboration between Northeast and the University of Nebraska Medical Center that allows nursing students to enroll in both two and four-year nursing programs in the same building.

NORFOLK – A year after almost winning national Chamber of the year, the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce’s President is now up for an award of his own. The Mid America Chamber Executives have announced that Norfolk Chamber President Dennis Houston is a finalist for their annual Chamber Executive of the Year Award. A press release from the Chamber office says the award covers executives over a five-state region, including Nebraska. The winner will be announced during a conference in South Dakota next week.

WEDNESDAY MAY 2ND

NORFOLK – Norfolk police have arrested two people believed to have stolen a car in Wayne. Police Chief Bill Mizner says 31-year old Matthew Kientz and 43-year old Christine Kitto were arrested at a Norfolk apartment complex early Sunday morning. Mizner says the two were getting in a vehicle that had been reported stolen from Wayne late Saturday. Police also found a .22 caliber pistol and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. Both Kientz and Kitto face felony theft charges, among others.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The federal government has awarded a $5 million grant for construction work at the East-Central District Health Department in Columbus. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the award Tuesday. The grant was part of $728 million approved for renovation and construction projects of health centers through the new federal health care law. The health care law will provide $9.5 billion to expand health services over a five-year period. It also makes $1.5 billion available to support major construction and renovation projects at community health centers.

NELIGH – Antelope County residents got their first questions on the new proposed route of the Keystone XL oil pipeline answered Wednesday. About 20 residents gathered at a café in Neligh for a luncheon hosted by the group Nebraskans for Jobs and Energy Independence. Executive Vice President of the Consumer Energy Alliance Michael Whatley was among Wednesday’s speakers. He says he came away impressed by how informed on the pipeline Neligh residents were. Whatley said he felt Wednesday’s attendees were generally in favor of the new pipeline route. The Department of Environmental Quality will also be holding forums on the Keystone XL in O’Neill, Neligh and Albion starting next week.

NORFOLK – What does the future hold for energy consumption in Nebraska? Nebraska Public Power District is attempting to answer that question by developing a 20-year strategic plan for the company. As part of that plan, NPPD hosted an informational forum in Norfolk Wednesday to educate the public and answer any questions about their future plans. NPPD CEO Pat Pope says wind energy has been the hot topic of late. Pope says wind energy does carries advantages, such as set pricing as opposed to coal and natural gas. But Pope says wind energy needs to be assisted with conventional power supplies. Pope says NPPD’s board is hoping to have a diversified portfolio of energy resources for the next 20 years.

NORFOLK– The Saturday Night Gala of the 2012 Viaero Great American Comedy Festival will be “Dy-no-mite!”. Veteran comedian and TV star Jimmie “J.J.” Walker will be the recipient of the 2012 Johnny Carson Comedy Legend Award. Walker rose to prominence on TV in the late 70’s as the star of Good Times where he became known for his signature “Dy-no-mite” catch phrase. He also has an extensive stand-up background, performing on the Tonight Show back when Jack Paar was still the host. Festival organizers say Walker will not only be receiving the legend award, but will also be a featured performer on Saturday June 16th, along with host Paula Poundstone.

NORFOLK– The 2012 Great American Comedy Festival will feature another batch of 20 up-and-coming comedians competing for the top prize. Festival organizers say the 20 professional comedians come from ten different states, all scouted by Festival producer Eddie Brill. The comedians will be performing on the Thursday and Friday night of the Festival, hosted by 2011 professional winner Ryan Hamilton. Festival organizers are also planning a little magic for the Sunday family show. Nebraska native Dick Cavett will be hosting the Sunday show, which will feature three nationally known comedians/magicians.

TUESDAY MAY 1st

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A man who cheated Medicare, Nebraska Medicaid and private insurers out of $1.3 million has been given three years in federal prison. Mark Koehler, of Norfolk, had made a plea deal with prosecutors.
A news release from the office of U.S. Attorney Deborah Gilg says that at Koehler’s sentencing on Tuesday, he also was ordered to pay restitution and serve five years of supervised release after he leaves prison. Koehler, the former business manager at Heartland Physical Therapy in Norfolk, was charged in December with bank fraud and health care fraud. Prosecutors say he submitted false claims for reimbursement between 2007 and 2010, and used phony billings to obtain a $500,000 operating loan from BankFirst in Norfolk. Koehler also must pay back the $500,000.

STANTON – A former Stanton County Commissioner and current candidate for the Nebraska Legislature will go on trial for false candidate filing this summer. William Goodpasture pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Stanton County Court to felony charges that he lived in a district other than the one he represented in Stanton County for five years. Goodpasture was arrested on the charges in February, after resigning from his post last November. His case was bound over to Stanton County District Court, where he’ll go on trial July 23rd. Goodpasture has filed for election to the Nebraska Legislature seat vacated by outgoing Sen. Mike Flood.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) - A 27-year-old woman has been arrested, accused of starting a fire at the house she rents in Columbus. Authorities say Ebtihal Albaiaty was arrested at the scene early Monday morning. Columbus Fire Chief Dean Hefti says Albaiaty lived alone in the house and was not injured by the blaze, which took firefighters about an hour to extinguish.

NORFOLK– The Senate Agriculture Committee passed what could be the next U.S. Farm Bill. It costs half a trillion dollars, and would trim the deficit by $23 billion over 10 years. The bill aims to crack down on abuses in the federal food stamp program and end what lawmakers call unnecessary subsidies. US Senator Mike Johanns was in Norfolk Monday to speak with citizens and thinks the tax credit for ethanol companies should not be reinstated. The program expired last year. Johanns thinks the industry can do without it. The new five-year farm bill would replace the old, which expires in September.

NORFOLK– During a candidates forum in Norfolk Monday night, a question about the hot-button topic of bullying was asked of the candidates for the Norfolk Public School Board of Education. Of the seven candidates who have filed for the three open seats, six were on hand for the forum. When asked if they think there is a bullying problem at NPS, each of the candidates either said yes or acknowledged that the opportunities exist for bullying to happen. When asked what could be done about bullying, the candidates were also very complimentary to the school staff and the work already being done, commending them for their engagement and involvement with the students and developing pro-education approaches. The candidates on hand included incumbents Clark Froehlich, Alfredo Ramierez and Joel Carlson along with challengers Bob Waite, Sandy Wolfe and Arnie Robinson. Challenger Troy Brooks was unable to attend due to a business commitment. The forum was presented by the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce.

NORFOLK– The candidates for a seat in Ward 4 on the Norfolk City Council had a chance to speak with constituents during a forum Monday night presented by the Norfolk Area Chamber. Candidates include incumbent Thad Murren and challengers Libby McKay and Michelle Sanchez. When asked if they would support a voter approved additional ½ cent sales tax increase, each of the candidates said yes, but had some variations on how the funds could be used. McKay says she would like to see infrastructure improvements, specifically street improvements. Murren also looks at infrastructure in the northern industrial area. Sanchez agrees that road improvements should be a priority. The three candidates will appear on the May primary ballot with the top two moving on to the November General election.

MONDAY APRIL 30TH

NORFOLK – Faith Regional officials hosted U.S. Senator Mike Johanns of Nebraska Monday to tour the damaged Emergency Department. Johanns was in Norfolk to host a public forum. He commended the hospital for its work in preventing injuries and vowed to do all he could at the federal level to assist in Faith Regional’s recovery.

NORFOLK – Faith Regional Health Service officials say it could still be months before their emergency department is operational again. The department in Norfolk had to be moved temporarily two weeks ago, after it was flooded by about four feet of rain water. CEO Jim Sinek says he still isn’t sure how much repairs will cost. He’s expecting those repairs to take another 60 to 90 days. Sinek says Faith Regional is taking advantage of the downtime to make the Emergency Department better when it does re-open.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) – An allegation of sexual abuse by an Omaha priest dates to his service at Norfolk church. Deacon Timothy McNeil, chancellor of the Archdiocese of Omaha, says the allegation against Rev. Franklin Dvorak came to light at the end of March. He’s accused of sexually abusing a female student from 1970 to 1972. Dvorak was placed on leave Friday from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish in Omaha. He was appointed pastor there in 2007. McNeil says Dvorak was at Sacred Heart Parish in Norfolk at the time of the alleged abuse. He says the claim has been deemed credible by a review board. Dvorak denies the allegation.

NORFOLK – Gas service has been restored to most of about 78 Black Hills Energy customers in Norfolk, after a gas line was damaged Monday. Bob McKeon with Black Hills Energy says a contractor working on Norfolk’s 25th Street Construction damaged the line Monday morning. Black Hills workers had to shut off service to about 78 customers between 25th and 27th Streets and Madison and Westside Avenue in order to repair the line.

NORFOLK - The Nebraska Public Power District is holding open-house meetings throughout as it decides how to generate energy in the future. An open house in Norfolk is set for Wednesday from 2pm to 8pm at Divots Conference Center. The Public is welcome to attend anytime during the hours of the open house.

NORFOLK – The Northeast Nebraska Humane Society is now going by a new name. Group officials have announced that they are now to be known as Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska. Officials say the change is to avoid confusion with the national branch of the Humane Society. Planning for the physical Animal Shelter is still moving along. Group officials say they hope to be able to break ground on the facility in 2013.

LINCOLN – Nebraska officials are promoting the state’s golf courses, wineries, restaurants and parks in a new campaign designed to change outside perceptions of the state and attract tourists. The attractions are part of the Nebraska Passport program. Nebraska Economic Development Director Catherine Lang says the program is broken into 10 subject areas of interest, including a culinary tour, culture tour and family fun tour. Lanf says tourism is one industry in Nebraska that appeared untouched by the recession. Among the 80 stops on the program is the TK Drive-In in Neligh, Glur’s Tavern and the Pawnee Plunge in Columbus and Niobrara State Park. You can see the full list and sign up here.

WEST POINT– So far, 2012 has seen quite a few changes in seasonal climate than what has been historically recorded. With the changes, many may wonder how it will affect this part of the country in the years to come. This Tuesday, there is a free workshop in West Point, Nebraska that will cover this very topic. The workshop will take place at the Horizons Hotel in West Point from 7 to 9pm this Tuesday. Organizers say the event will focus on climate change, the causes and indicators of climate change and also tools that can be used to aid in gardening as well as farming decisions. Presenters will also attempt to look into their crystal ball and see how these changes in climate will affect us even 50 to 100 years down the road. Tuesday’s workshop is free and open to the public.

NORFOLK– A large crowd was on hand Saturday to make their donation to the Norfolk Teammates Mentoring Program and have their personalized football signed by Husker legends. The Teammates Touchdown Day was a new approach to raising funds for the organization, instead of holding their annual one-hour walk. Those who donated $100 or more received a football autographed by Teammates founder Tom Osborne and Husker senior Austin Cassidy. Norfolk Teammates Coordinator Mara Riley says funds raised will be used to help operate the non-profit organization. Riley says with the success of this years event, they hope to present ideas such as Teammates Touchdown Day in the years to come.

FRIDAY APRIL 27th

WISNER– Wisner voters will have more than just political candidates to decide on in the upcoming May primary. The Wisner City Council recently voted to have residents decide on whether or not to pass a one-and-a-half percent increase in its city sales tax. Tom Feller with Cuming County Economic Development says the city has infrastructure and equipment needs, but not enough of a tax base to meet those needs. He says as a result, the sales tax increase is a necessity for Wisner. Wisner isn’t the only Cuming County town looking to increase its sales tax authority next month. West Point, Beemer and Bancroft also have sales tax increases on the May primary ballot.

PIERCE – Some Pierce residents were without power after a problem with a transformer. A release from Pierce Utilities says customers both in town and within the rural areas west of town were blacked out by a transformer problem in the main substation this morning. These same customers were also affected by a planned power outage in the winter. The outage cause Pierce High School to dismiss early.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska State Patrol and the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office have arranged for seven collection sites for the upcoming Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. The federal Drug Enforcement Administration says the event will give people a chance to help prevent pill abuse and theft by getting rid of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted medications. The Attorney General’s Office says in a news release that the collections will occur from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Among the drop-off locations is Columbus Community Hospital and St. Francis Memorial Hospital in West Point.

NORFOLK – The Norfolk School District has a new elementary school principal. Superintendent Dr. Marlene Uhing announced Thursday that the board of education has approved the hiring of Michael Andreasen for principal of Washington Elementary School. Andreasen comes to Norfolk from the Wisner-Pilger school district, where he teaches grades 5 and 6. Andreasen is replacing Chad Boyer, who was named superintendent of Andreasen’s current district, Wisner-Pilger, in January.

THURSDAY APRIL 26TH

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Supreme Court’s Third Judicial District has a new judge. Gov. Dave Heineman announced Thursday that Judge William Cassell of O’Neill has been named to the post, which covers all of Northeast Nebraska. Cassell currently sits on the Nebraska Court of Appeals, and previously served as a judge on the Eighth District Court. Cassell replaces Justice John Gerrard, who resigned earlier this year to accept a position on the U.S. District Court.

MADISON, Neb. (AP) - A 32-year-old woman accused of using her 11-year-old daughter to drive the mom and two friends during a night of drinking has pleaded not guilty to child abuse. Jennifer Etgen, of Tilden, is out of jail on bond and is scheduled for trial on June 12. Norfolk police say an officer saw a pickup driven by the girl almost hit a curb just before 3:15 a.m. on March 13. After pulling over the truck, the officer was told the girl was driving because her mom and two friends had been drinking alcohol. The felony charge of child abuse carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

NORFOLK - A Norfolk woman in in jail facing allegations she sold a stolen vehicle. Police Chief Bill Mizner says 31-year old Kathryn Beed was arrested on a Madison County warrant Wednesday. Mizner says an investigation showed Beed agreed to buy one of two vehicles that was stolen from Abe’s Detailing in Norfolk in February. Investigators say Beed then re-sold the vehicle. She faces felony charges of conspiracy to commit theft. Her initial hearing is set for May 1st.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – The Nebraska State Patrol and attorney general’s office have arranged seven collection sites for tomorrow’ s Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. People will be able to turn in unwanted or expired pills. The sites include Neighborhood Pharmacy in Lincoln, St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island and Columbus Community Hospital in Columbus.

NORFOLK– The three candidates for Madison County Commissioner District 2 met for an open forum in Norfolk Wednesday. Among the questions for incumbent Martin Griffith, former Commissioner Rod Hughes and Christian Ohl with the Norfolk Legislative Council, was what they think Madison County can do to offset the ongoing cuts in state aid and still provide good services to county residents. Rod Hughes said county workers shouldn’t necessarily expect across the board raises every budget year.
Christian Ohl echoed Hughes’ sentiments somewhat, saying all county wages need to be looked at. Martin Griffith said the county might have to look at trimming family insurance plans for county workers. The forum was hosted by the Madison County Republicans. The top two vote-getters of the three candidates in the May primary will move on to the general election in November.

NORFOLK– The Lower Elkhorn NRD is doing its part to celebrate Arbor Day. The annual day set aside to plant trees is this Friday, and began in Nebraska 140 years ago. NRD officials say they’ll be celebrating by selling seedlings on Friday. Anyone interested can purchase the trees at the Maskenthine Lake Recereation Area north of Stanton from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday. The NRD will be selling bundles of seedlings for $23.

NORFOLK– US92 has been awarded multiple honors from the Associated Press. The AP announced its annual Great Plains Broadcasting Awards Wednesday, and US92 was the recipient of 10 awards, including recognition for sports, spot News and overall newscast. The Great Plains Awards recognize radio stations in Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 25TH

ALLEN (KTIV)– A South Sioux City man died after he was electrocuted at a feed lot in Northeast Nebraska Tuesday. Around noon, the Dixon County Sheriff’s office said they responded to the Dixon County Feed Yard in Allen to an electrical accident. That’s when they say they discovered 29-year-old Derrick Roth was working on a highline pole and was accientally electrocuted. Roth was pronounced dead at the scene.

STANTON – A two-car accident shut down traffic south of Stanton Tuesday afternoon. Stanton County Sheriff Mike Unger says a vehicle driven by 65-year old Dennis Settles of Norfolk was northbound on Highway 57 about 8 miles south of Stanton when a westbound pickup driven by 39-year old Michael Semerad of Howells pulled out in front of him at about 2:30 p.m., causing the accident. Settles and his wife, Karen, were taken to Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk. Unger says they were wearing their seat belts and were able to escape serious injury. Semerad refused treatment at the scene. The crash shut down Highway 57 for about an hour.

NORFOLK– One of the three candidates to replace Lyons-native Chuck Hassebrook on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents is getting out to meet his potential constituents…and he’s doing it on a bicycle. Columbus businessman Tony Raimondo, Jr. began a four-day bike tour of Northeast Nebraska Tuesday along with his wife and campaign officials to speak with voters in his district. Raimondo, who is an avid biker, says most of the people he spoke with Tuesday were mainly concerned with how to keep tuition low at the University. He says the tour so far has been a good way to get noticed. Raimondo’s tour will start tomorrow in Norfolk. He’ll also be in Winside, Wayne and Pender before wrapping up in West Point. He’s running in the May Primary against Norfolk lawyer David Copple and former Nebraska football player Jim Pillen.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Tuition is going up for students at Wayne State College this fall. The Nebraska State College Board of Trustees has approved a 3.5 percent increase for students at Wayne State, as well as Chadron and Peru state colleges. For in-state undergraduates, tuition will go up $4.75 per credit hour to $140 – or an additional $71 for a fulltime student taking 15 credit hours. Tuition was raised 5 percent for online courses. The board also approved a rate of $50 per credit hour for dual enrollment courses, which are offered to high school juniors and seniors.

NORFOLK– Dining out in Norfolk this evening will allow you to lend a helping hand to the fight against cancer. The annual “Paint The Town Purple” is being held today with proceeds benefiting the Norfolk Area Relay For Life. From 5 to 7pm tonight, folks are encouraged to dine out at one of 11 area restaurants that will donate a portion of their profits during that time to the Relay For Life. In addition to helping fund cancer research and the fight against cancer, participants will also receive a purple ribbon to place on their vehicle antenna to show their support. Restaurants included: Bailey’s Bistro, Subway – all three locations,Quiznos – both location, TJ’s Sports Bar,
Applebee’s , Village Inn, KFC, Wendy’s, Ricardo’s, Barnstormers, Village Inn – Hadar.

TUESDAY APRIL 24TH

NORFOLK– Spontaneous combustion is being named as the cause of a house fire in Norfolk Monday. Norfolk Fire Captain John Redding says firefighters were notified by a neighbor of a fire at an unoccupied home at 808 south 10th street. The neighbor heard the fire alarms sounding prior to his call to 9-1-1. When fire crews arrived, they found smoke from a small fire on the main floor of the home. Redding says the accidental fire was a result of wood finishing products, rags and paint left in contact with each other resulting in spontaneous combustion. The fire was quickly extinguished and no injuries were reported. Damage estimates are listed at $5000. The home is owned by Dale Hekrdle of Stanton.

MADISON– Anyone who wishes to participate in the upcoming primary election has some deadlines coming up. Madison County Clerk Nancy Scheer says mail-in voter registration for the May 15th elections need to be post-marked by this Friday. In-person voter registration needs to be completed by the end of business at the Madison County Courthouse on May 4th. Scheer says that includes an registration changes.

WAYNE – Wayne’s singing McDonald’s worker didn’t make it to the final four, but his vocals did get him into the sweet 16. Kendall Titiml, a student at Wayne State College and McDonald’s employee in Wayne, was competing in an online competition to become the next voice of McDonalds. He did win a VIP tour of American Idol, a trip to Nashville and a private audition for executives at Disney studios. The contest is a way the fast food chain recognizes and rewards the talents of its employees.

NORFOLK– This June is the Fifth Annual Great American Comedy Festival in Norfolk, and festival organizers are unveiling some of the highlights. This year’s host for the Saturday June 16th show that also serves as the finals of the comedy competition will be comedienne Paula Poundstone. Poundstone is well known as a panelist of NPR’s “Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me” and was the first woman ever to win the ACE Award for best stand-up comedy performance. Meanwhile Nebraska native Dick Cavett will be returning to the festival this year. The 2008 Johnny Carson Legend Award recipient will be hosting the family show on Sunday June 17th, which this year will focus on comedy/magic. Meanwhile, previous festival participants Sam Adams and Ryan Hamilton will be back to host the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday shows, and frequent David Letterman guest Jake Johannsen will be performing both Thursday and Friday. Comedy Festival officials say more information on the rest of the festival lineup will be released soon. More info can be found online at greatamericancomedyfestival.com.

MONDAY APRIL 23RD

NORFOLK, Neb. (AP) – The trial of a man accused of shooting and wounding a woman a Norfolk has been delayed. 34-year-old Carlos Arevalo-Martinez appeared in Madison County District Court and waived his right to a speedy trial. His attorney, Doug Stratton, says he just received police reports last week and they’ll need time to go over the reports with an interpreter. Arevalo-Martinez’s trial on charges of first-degree assault and use of a fire to commit a felony is now set for July 9. He’s accused of shooting 33-year-old Edna Gutierrez on Feb. 14. He was taken into custody after a standoff with police in Stanton on Feb. 16. Arevalo-Martinez remains in jail on $1 million bond.

MADISON, Neb. (AP) – A 39-year-old man who was drunk while driving his tractor through Norfolk has been given two to four years in prison. Erik Vogel, of Battle Creek, was sentenced on Friday for drunken driving, third offense. Vogel was fined $1,000, and his license was revoked for 15 years. Police say the tractor was weaving in his lane as he drove in Norfolk on Jan. 6. His blood later tested out at nearly four times the legal limit.

MADISON, Neb. (AP) - A former police chief of Newman Grove has pleaded not guilty in a January shooting incident. 43-year-old Todd Jennings entered the plea Friday in Madison County District Court to charges terroristic threats and possession of a firearm. The judge set a July 9 trial date. Authorities say Jennings shot out the back window of vehicle occupied by four people in Tilden. No one was hurt.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) - A Columbus man has been sentenced to 40 to 50 years in prison in the stabbing death of another man in a motel parking lot. 21-year-old Ozzy Tilden was sentenced Friday in Platte County District Court for second-degree murder. He pleaded guilty last month in the death of 36-year-old Jerry Garcia in the parking lot of the Sundown Motel in Columbus. Investigators say in court documents that Tilden had gotten into a fistfight in the parking lot after he returned from having some drinks at a bar early in the morning on Oct. 8. According to the documents, a witness told police that Tilden left but soon returned and confronted Garcia, stabbing him several times.

STANTON – A rural Leigh woman is injured following an ATV accident Sunday. Stanton County Sheriff Mike Unger says 29-year old Nicole Hollman was injured around 8 p.m. Sunday when her ATV rolled and landed on top of her in a cornfield about 6 miles northwest of Leigh. Unger says Hollman was transported by Leigh Rescue to Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk with what was described as a severe leg injury.

SCHUYLER, Neb. (AP) – A Schuyler man has been killed in a collision between a motorcycle and an SUV. The Colfax County attorney’s office says 20-year-old Pedro Manriquez Jr. left the Cargill Meat Solutions parking lot on his motorcycle and slammed into the back of the SUV about 11:45 p.m. Friday. He died at the scene. The driver of the SUV, 58-year-old Andres Marrero, of Columbus, told authorities that he saw the motorcycle rapidly approaching behind him but couldn’t avoid a collision. The crash is under investigation. No charges have been filed.

NORFOLK – Former U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey is trying to convince Northeast Nebraskans to elect him to his old job. The Nebraska Democrat made a stop in Norfolk Saturday to raise funds for his campaign for retiring U-S Senator Ben Nelson’s seat. Nebraska is a state that has not bid well for democrats lately, and Kerrey hasn’t lived in the state for years. But despite all that, Kerrey told US92 he still feels a connection with the people of Nebraska. Kerrey says it was his wife that ultimately convinced him to run again. He said he doesn’t like the way things are being run in Washington right now and that if elected he’ll work on balancing the nation’s budget.

PENDER, Neb. (AP) - A new, $20.5 million hospital has opened in Pender. Gov. Dave Heineman was among the folks that turned out for Saturday’s ribbon-cutting for the Pender Community Hospital. The facility replaces Pender’s aging hospital, built in the 1950s. Chief financial officer Melissa Kelly says the old hospital was cramped and had little room for expansion. The new building has much more space and private in-patient rooms.

NORFOLK – Hundreds gathered in Norfolk on Saturday to celebrate the 3rd Annual Earth Day Festival at Johnson Park. Attendees played games, took part in hands-on demonstrations and learned ways to do more to care for the environment. Jennifer Pellatz of the Norfolk Chamber’s Green Council says the Earth Day committee geared this year’s event more to children. Pellatz says she thinks the message of a cleaner Earth is beginning to spread, particularly with youth. The annual Elkhorn River clean-up was held Saturday morning prior to the festival. Clean-up organizers say they had a tremendous turnout.

FRIDAY APRIL 20TH

NORFOLK – Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk is still relying on a temporary emergency department set up after last weekend’s storms flooded part of the facility. Vice President of support services Tim Auwater said in a statement that the hospital’s insurer is still assessing the water and hail damage, but an initial survey indicates 15,000 square feet of walls, flooring and cabinetry in its emergency department were flooded. At least a dozen other parts of the property were also damaged. Water rushed in from under the outside doors of its emergency department last Saturday, causing 4 feet of water to fill the halls and rooms of the department. Repairs are scheduled to begin Monday but Auwater says it’s unknown how long they will take.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) - The city of Columbus will ask the Nebraska Supreme Court to reject a lower court ruling that the city is responsible for a sewer backup that damaged some residents’ basements. The City Council voted earlier this week to appeal the ruling by a three-judge panel of the Nebraska Appeals Court. Earlier this month the appeals panel reversed part of a lower court’s dismissal of the residents’ 2005 lawsuit. The judges upheld the dismissal of a negligence claim but reversed the dismissal of an “inverse condemnation” claim. The panel says the homeowners didn’t have to prove negligence in claiming their property was damaged for a public purpose.

NORFOLK– Now that her time in the State Legislature is over, Deb Fischer is now focusing her attentions solely on the May primary. Fischer is among the Republicans vying for retiring U.S. Senator Ben Nelson’s seat. She spoke at a function in Norfolk on Thursday, where she said representing the vast District 43, which is roughly the size of New Jersey, for eight years will help her on the campaign trail. Fischer says her campaign will likely mean 16 hour days every day right up until the May 15th primary. Fischer is running against Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Treasurer Don Stenberg, Schuyler businessman Pat Flynn, Spencer Zimmerman of Omaha and Sharon Elander of Lincoln.

NORFOLK – The Norfolk Water Division is beginning its annual system flush this weekend. City officials say flushing will be conducted in the evening and overnight hours from 8:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. starting this Sunday and running through Thursday every week. Officials say the system gets flushed annually to remove iron and manganese deposits that collect in water mains. Customers may experience water discoloration while the flushing is going on.

Areas to be flushed from April 22nd to April 26th include:

49th Street to 25th Street from Eisenhower south to Norfolk Avenue

27th Street to 18th Street from Norfolk Avenue south to Sunset Avenue

27th Street to 20th Street from Sunset Avenue south to Omaha Avenue

25th Street to 18th Street from Sheridan Avenue south to Norfolk Avenue

18th Street to 13th Street from Benjamin Avenue south to Maple Avenue

NORFOLK– A festival for the whole family will be held in Norfolk this weekend to learn more interactive about ways to give back to mother earth. The third annual Earth Day Festival, presented by the Norfolk Chamber’s Green Council, will be held Saturday at Johnson Park from 1 to 4pm. The event will begin with an official tree planting ceremony at 1pm. Jennifer Pellatz of the Green Council says the park will be lined with various activities, games and demonstrations. The main attraction is national performer Jack Golden who will giving humorous performances on recycling, litter prevention and water conservation. Prior to the festival, from 9am to noon, NorthFork Riverfront Development is holding a riverfront cleanup. Registration is at 8:30am at Johnson Park and walk-ins are welcome. A complimentary lunch will be provided for volunteers.

NORFOLK– Grocery shoppers in Norfolk, Pierce and Columbus will be given the opportunity to help feed those in need this weekend through a program sponsored by the Norfolk Kiwanis Club. The “one-day” event is designed as a way for all Kiwanis clubs around the world to come together on a single day and do a service project for their community. Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor Bob Marshal says the clubs will come together this Saturday for their project called “feed the food pantries” and will be stationed at the entrances and exits of the local grocery stores and will hand out bags.
Marshall says most of the items on the needs and wants list will be children-focused, but will also include items such as cleaning supplies. The Kiwanis One-day project will take place this Saturday from 10am to 2pm.

THURSDAY APRIL 19TH

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Nebraska environmental officials have released the new proposed corridors for the Keystone XL pipeline that avoid the state’s Sandhills region. The developer’s preferred route unveiled Thursday would run through Keya Paha, Holt, Antelope, Boone, Nance and Merrick counties before connecting with the route the company had originally proposed. The route would cross US Highway 20 between Royal and Orchard and Highway 275 between Tilden and Oakdale. Pipeline developer TransCanada says its new preferred corridor affects the fewest number of landowners, leaves the smallest environmental footprint, minimizes the risk to workers constructing the pipe, and reduces erosion risk.

NEW PROPOSED PIPELINE (New route is in green):

MADISON – A lawsuit has been filed in Madison County District Court related to a 2010 fatal Norfolk fire. Court documents show that Jolene Ellenberger has filed a lawsuit, naming Myron Kooi as defendant. Two of Ellenberger’s children died in a fire at Kooi’s home north of Norfolk in April of 2010. According to court documents, Ellenberger is alleging that Kooi failed to maintain proper smoke detectors in the house, putting her children in a position of peril. Kooi has denied those allegations. Ellenberger is seeking over $10,000 in damages and further compensation. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for July 12th.

COLUMBUS– Among the three candidates for District 3 of the University of Nebraska Regents is Tony Raimondo, Jr. The Columbus native is currently Vice President of Behlen Manufacturing, and says he decided to run after conversations with outgoing Regent Chuck Hassebrook. Raimondo says if elected, he’d focus on keeping the University system in Nebraska competitive. Raimondo says his experience running a business can carry over to success in running a university system. Raimondo is running against David Copple of Norfolk and Jim Pillen of Columbus. The top two in May’s primary will move on to the general election in November.

TUESDAY APRIL 17TH

NORFOLK– Saturday’s rain storms have slightly set back work at Veterans Memorial Park. City Works Manager Dennis Smith told the City Council Monday that the parking lot being constructed north of the Armory took on a lot of water on Saturday. He estimated that work to the lot was set back about a week due to the weather. Smith said there is also some hail damage to various structures at the park. He says city staff will be assessing the damage and forming a plan of action to fix it this week.

NORFOLK– Is the City of Norfolk paying too much for insurance? The City Council took steps Monday to find out. The Council approved an almost $13,000 contract with a consulting firm and instructed that firm to withdraw from the League Association of Risk Management, in order for the city to put their insurance coverage out to bid. The Council discussed possibly breaking away from LARM about a year ago as a possible way to save money, but ultimately the council decided against it. City Administrator Shane Weidner says using a consultant allows the city to bid for insurance and still keep the League part of the process. The City will remain insured by LARM through the bidding process. They’ve been with the League since 2005.

MONDAY APRIL 16TH

NORFOLK– Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman says it may be too early to tell if a federal disaster declaration is necessary following last weekend’s storms in Nebraska. In an interview with US92 news this morning, Heineman said officials will take a couple of days to compile damage reports and make a determination on a disaster declaration in a few days.

NORFOLK– Due to significant damage from Saturday’s storm, Norfolk’s Faith Regional Health Services Emergency Department has set up a temporary operation in another part of the hospital. FRHS officials say when water began to seep underneath the outside ED doors, the hail and mud caused a drain to clog, forcing about 10 feet of water to build up in a stairwell leading to the emergency department. The pressure became so great that a door bent, gave way and propelled a four-foot high tsunami of water and debris into the department and around every corridor. Exam rooms, equipment and chairs were all upturned. At the time of the incident there were patients being treated which led ED workers to evacuate the patients and services to another area. A temporary emergency department has been set up in the first floor of the new FRHS bed tower. In addition, the patient information desk in the lobby of the first floor has been transformed into the ED registration desk. EMS squads and patients coming to the hospital with emergency needs can access the temporary ED by entering the east side of the hospital off of 25^th and Norfolk Avenue. Faith Regional CEO Jim Sinek commends the employees for their quick actions and says they are very lucky that no patients or teammates were injured. Ironically, the hospital was holding their annual fundraiser Saturday with the proceeds going toward the expansion of the hospital’s emergency department. A photo account of the damage can be seen on the US92 Facebook page.

NORFOLK– Residents are still not allowed back at the Homestead Assisted Living Center in Norfolk after it was evacuated Saturday due to flooding. Officials at the center, on the corner of Koenigstein and 37th street, say all of their residents are safe with family members in other locations after Saturday’s storm flooded the center with water. Clean-up crews have extracted about 500 gallons of water from the building. Officials say residents should be allowed back at the facility sometime Tuesday afternoon.

NORFOLK– Northeast Community College’s Norfolk campus also saw significant damage after a roof drain clogged, causing water damage in the Don F. Maclay building. The damage did not effect college operations or any classes.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is reducing the amount of water released into the Missouri River in light of the heavy rains that fell this weekend in Nebraska and Iowa. The corps says that releases from the Gavins Point Dam near Yankton, S.D., are being lowered Sunday from 28,000 cubic feet per second to 26,000 and again Monday to 22,000. Similar reductions are under way at other upstream reservoirs. The corps’ Jody Farhat says the reductions are needed to prevent flooding along the Missouri River in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa.

PETERSBURG, Neb. (AP) – Severe storms that swept across Nebraska brought damaging hail to the northeast part of the state. Boone County Sheriff David Spiegel says golf ball- to baseball-sized hail, accompanied by about 3 1/2 inches of rain, pelted Petersburg about noon Saturday. He says the storm damaged siding and windows on houses and caused vehicle damage.

LINCOLN– Nebraska and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are joining forces to help veterans and military spouses find jobs. The state and U.S. Chamber are sponsoring a “Hiring Our Heroes” job fair designed for veterans on April 24 at the Lancaster Event Center in Lincoln. About 4,800 men and woman serve in the Nebraska Army and Air National Guard, and Gov. Dave Heineman said in a press conference announcing the event Monday that they are some of the best candidates for open jobs in Nebraska. Seventy-five employers have registered for the job fair, representing more than 500 job opportunities.

NORFOLK – As the weather warms up, local utility officials are making sure that anyone getting outside for spring and summer projects is doing so safely. April is Safe Digging Month, and Bob McKeon with Black Hills Energy says anyone looking to do some digging should first call 811to get utility lines marked. McKeon says the guidelines don’t just apply to major excavations. McKeon says homeowners are required by law to call 811 at least 48 hours before digging.

SATURDAY APRIL 14TH

NORFOLK – The debate over potential city sales tax increases in Nebraska came to Norfolk Friday. State Senators Brad Ashford, Abbie Cornett and Steve Lathrop were joined by city leaders and residents at the Norfolk Municipal Airport. They were speaking in favor of LB 357 which was passed by the Unicameral last week. The bill would give cities the option to raise their sales taxes one-half percent as long as voters agree to it. Governor Dave Heineman vetoed the bill on Wednesday, and said in a press conference Friday that Nebraskans don‘t want more taxes. But Senator Ashford, who drafted the bill, says he believes voters would support extra sales tax if it’s used correctly. City leaders from Norfolk, West Point and South Sioux City all spoke at the press conference in favor of LB 357. West Point Mayor Marlene Johnson said her residents should be the ones to decide if they need additional sales tax. Senator Ashord told reporters that he believes that he has the 30 votes necessary to overturn Heineman’s veto. The Legislature will vote on the measure again this Wednesday.

THURSDAY APRIL 12TH

NORFOLK– The Nebraska primary election is just over one month away, and one of the hottest races on the Republican ticket took center stage in Norfolk last night. There are six Republican candidates who are vying for the nomination to seek the US Senate seat of retiring Democrat Ben Nelson. Four of them were present for Wednesday’s event, Don Stenberg, Deb Fischer, Jon Bruning and Pat Flynn. During the one-hour debate, the candidates covered a variety of topics ranging from health care to economic policy and others. Two of the candidates, Spencer Zimmerman of Omaha and Sharon Elander of Lincoln were not present for the debate. The Republican winner in the May primary will move on to the November general election where they will face Democrats Bob Kerry or Steve Lustgarten.

STANTON– A former Husker football player is spreading a positive message with students all over Northeast Nebraska. Nebraska grad and current sportscaster Matt Davison stopped at Wisner-Pilger and Stanton High Schools Wednesday. He spoke to the students about making positive choices in their lives and fostering a positive culture at their school. The Tecumseh native says he feels he can relate to students in towns like Stanton and Wisner because of his roots. Davison will be speaking with students at six other schools over the next two weeks as part of the Healthy Communities Initiative. His next stop is Elkhorn Valley High School on Monday.

NORFOLK – Norfolk officials unveiled a project Thursday aimed at giving Nebraska veterans a place to relax and spend time with family. The Norfolk Heroes Park was announced at the Norfolk Veterans Home Thursday. A $2.5 million capital campaign was started five years ago to develop the eight acres behind the Veterans Home into a park that any Nebraska veteran can use free of charge. Campaign Chair Ron Stauffer says the group has raised $1.7 million to date, which will allow work to start on the park within the next two weeks. Stauffer says Heroes Park is a small thank you to the veterans who have sacrificed so much for their country. The Park will include a covered gathering area and picnic shelters, walking paths and gardens. Organizers are also planning a flag plaza in front of the Veterans Home honoring all branches of service.

NORFOLK– A national speaker who approaches the topic of abstinence before marriage will be in Norfolk today to speak at a number of local functions. Scott Phelps is the Executive Director of the Abstinence and Marriage Education Partnership in Chicago. He also travels the country each year and speaks to students at public and private schools about the importance of abstinence. Today he will speak with students at Norfolk Junior High, Lutheran High Northeast and the 7th and 8th graders at Christ Lutheran. In addition Phelps will also conduct a Parents, Family and Friends night at 7pm at the Lutheran High Northeast Activity Center. The evening event is free and open to the public.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 11th

NORFOLK– The recession in Nebraska is over. That’s according to Michael Foutch, Business Development Specialist for the Federal Small Business Administration. Foutch spoke to a group of small-business leaders in Norfolk on Tuesday, and said he based his assertion on an increased number of SBA loans to help small businesses get started and renovate. Foutch attributes that growth to a raised awareness in SBA programs. Foutch says 17 Norfolk businesses have used federal loans to start or expand businesses in the past 18 months, which has created or saved about 160 jobs locally. Foutch says that in terms of growth, that puts Norfolk on par per capita with Lincoln and Omaha.

UNDATED – Among the many names that has emerged for the republican nomination to retiring U.S. Senator Ben Nelson’s seat is State Attorney General Jon Bruning. Bruning says among the reasons he decided to run for the Senate is try and rein in what he sees as out of control spending. Bruning says another of his main focuses if elected would be to advocate for the agriculture industry of Nebraska. Bruning is facing five other Republican candidates in May, State Senator Deb Fischer, State Treasurer Don Stenberg, Schuyler businessman Pat Flynn, Omaha trucker Spencer Zimmerman and Sharyn Elander of Lincoln.

NORFOLK– The former Northern Hills Elementary School in Norfolk could soon have a new owner. Norfolk School District Business Services Director Vicky Schwartz says the district is in negotiations with a potential buyer for the school building on North 11th St. The building was closed following the 2010 school year. Schwartz did not reveal who the potential buyer is. Meanwhile, the NPS district is putting another piece of property of for sale. The Facilities and Finance Committee have directed school officials to put a house on S. 6th Street across from the Junior High up for sale. School Business Services Director Vicky Schwartz says the sale will include moving the existing house off the property to make room for additional parking for the Junior High.

BATTLE CREEK – Students all over Northeast Nebraska will be hearing about the importance of living active, healthy lifestyles from a former Husker great. Husker grad and current sportscaster Matt Davison is touring numerous Northeast Nebraska schools over the next two weeks as part of the Healthy Communities Initiative. Davison says he relishes the opportunity to try and influence Nebraska’s youth. Davison is speaking at Battle Creek High School Tuesday. He’ll be in Wisner and Stanton Wednesday, then Elkhorn Valley, Madison, Bancroft Rosalie, Norfolk Catholic, Newman Grove and Oakland-Craig in the coming weeks.

NORFOLK– A new fundraising effort to benefit the Norfolk Area Teammates program is underway that will provide donors a brush with Husker celebrity. Businesses and individuals who make a donation to Teammates of $100 or more before this Sunday, will each receive a personalized football autographed by Tom Osborne who founded the mentoring program in 1991. In addition, donors will also be invited to the Teammates Touchdown Day planned for April 28^th in Norfolk. At the event, donors will be recognized and will also have the opportunity to have their footballs signed by Senior members of the Husker football team who will be on hand. Norfolk Teammates Coordinator Mara Riley says funds raised will help serve the program and the 80 local mentor/mentee matches. The fundraising goal for the project is $25,000. For more information and to make a donation, contact Teammates Coordinators Mara Riley at 402-841-0596 or contact the Norfolk Teammates office at the Norfolk Senior High.

NORFOLK-- A 10-mile stretch of road between Norfolk and Stanton will see some delays due to road repairs beginning Thursday. Nebraska Department of Roads Project Manager Doug Lollman says work on highway 24 will include patching of the existing concrete pavement followed by an asphalt overlay. Lollman says motorists will encounter temporary lane closures and are urged to use caution when traveling in this area. The project is expected to take 7 months to complete.

TUESDAY APRIL 10TH

NORFOLK– The Norfolk Public School District will be getting less financial support from the state next year. School Business Services Director Vicky Schwartz told the School Board Monday that the latest estimations from the Nebraska Department of Education are that NPS will be getting almost $8 million in state aid for the 2012-13 school year. That would be almost $900,000 less than what they received this year. Schwartz says the district will get its certified budget authority by May 1st, at which time next year’s budget will be finalized. Schwartz says school staff are reducing spending for the current year, and paying down next year’s orders whenever possible. Schwartz says the hope is to end this year with enough in cash reserves to handle the cut in state aid.

MONDAY APRIL 9TH

WASHINGTON DC– The President of Northeast Community College was in Washington DC last week to join other national college officials to sign a memorandum of understanding with USDA rural development. The new agreement with the American Association of Community Colleges aims to increase access to community college education and help funding mechanisms. Among those signing was Northeast President Dr. Michael Chipps. The relationship will expand training and higher education opportunities for rural citizens and aims to establish working groups to help coordinate rural development’s financial and technical resources, through grants and loans, to further assist rural colleges. In addition, the two groups will work jointly to co-sponsor events. While the agreement was signed last Wednesday, Nebraska’s community college presidents met with state rural development leaders late last week to review the details.

NEWMAN GROVE– Bridges along highway 45 near Newman Grove will be reduced to one-lane beginning Monday to allow for construction. Officials with the Nebraska Department of Roads say the bridges at Shell Creek and Dry Creek will see new curbs and gutters, sidewalks and concrete driveways. Motorists should be aware that traffic will be shifted to the northbound lane and temporary traffic signals will be in place. Project completion is slated for October.

UNTITLED – Retiring U.S. Senator Ben Nelson’s seat has become a coveted spot in the legislature. Among the many prominent names that will appear on the Republican Primary in May is current Nebraska State Senator Deb Fischer. Fischer is wrapping up her eight years in the Unicameral, and says her experience at the state level can carry her to success on a national stage. Fischer is trying to become the first female U.S. Senator from Nebraska in almost 60 years. But Fischer says it isn’t her gender that makes her stand out as a candidate. Fischer is among six republican candidates, along with Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Treasurer Don Stenberg, Schuyler businessman Pat Flynn, Spencer Zimmerman and Sharyn Elander.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Nebraska Democrats will soon hold their second presidential caucus. The April 14 caucus will be the second one in Nebraska’s history. Party Chairman Vic Covalt says the first caucus in 2008 helped unify the party and attracted thousands of people interested in politics. Those who attend the caucuses in Nebraska’s 93 counties will have a chance to represent their precinct at the party’s county convention. That might lead to a chance to represent the state as a delegate to the national Democratic convention in Charlotte, N.C., in September. Madison County’s Caucus is slated to take place at 1pm Saturday at the Norfolk Knights of Columbus hall.

NORFOLK– Over 1500 people crowded the Cox Activities center on the campus of Northeast Community College on Saturday to watch the Nebraska Volleyball team as part of their annual spring tour. For the Norfolk Area Visitors Bureau, that number is sign of things to come. NAVB Director Kim Kwapnioski says the Sports Council was created to attract events like this to Northeast Nebraska. Kwapnioski says the success of Saturday’s event shows Norfolk is willing and able to host major events. Despite confusion the day tickets for the event went on sale that left many fans empty-handed, Saturday’s event went off without a hitch. NAVB officials said afterwards they’re confident that Nebraska’s spring tour will pass through Norfolk again.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Participants in the 2012 Tour de Nebraska will spend five days pedaling through the northeast part of the state. The 25th annual event begins June 20 in Madison. About 300 cyclists are expected to participate in the 300-mile journey. Overnight stops are scheduled for Wakefield, Wausa, O’Neill and Neligh. The tour will end June 26th back in Madison. Registration details and other information are available online at http://www.tourdenebraska.com/.

FRIDAY APRIL 6TH

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) - A contractor from Norfolk has been accused of taking money for jobs in Johnson County, Iowa that he never finished. 50-year-old Russell Arlen, of Norfolk, has been charged with ongoing criminal conduct, a felony. Johnson County authorities say officers spent the past year investigating allegations that bubbled up in January 2010, when several people complained to county prosecutors. Authorities say the people reported that Arlen would take money and schedule projects, only to leave them unfinished. He’s also accused of setting up subcontractors to do the work but not paying them. Arlen was arrested last week in Nebraska and extradited Thursday to the Johnson County. A jailer said Arlen remained in custody Friday, pending bail of $250,000.

NORFOLK– One of the three candidates for Madison County’s District 2 Commissioner seat is Christian Ohl of Norfolk. Ohl currently sits as chair for the Norfolk Legislative Council, and he says he wanted to run for public office to try and give back to an area that’s been good for him. Ohl says if elected, he’d like to focus on harboring economic growth in Madison County. Ohl will be on the May primary ballot against former Norfolk City Councilman Rod Hughes, and incumbent Marty Griffith. The top two vote-getters will move on to the November general election.

THURSDAY APRIL 5TH

MADISON – After being appointed to his post nine months ago, Madison County Commissioner Marty Griffith is looking to get elected to a full term this year. Griffith owns a weatherization business in Norfolk, and says if re-elected, he’d like to see more business come to the county. Griffith says he also wants to limit spending countywide. Griffith is one of three names on the May Primary ballot, along with former Norfolk City Councilman Rod Hughes and Norfolk Chamber Membership Director Christian Ohl.

NORFOLK– Many area residents gathered in Norfolk Thursday morning to hear inspirational words and pray for their community. The 8th Annual Mayor’s Leadership Prayer Breakfast was held at Norfolk’s Divot’s Devent Center Thursday. The featured speaker of the event was California consultant Mike Frank. Frank speaks to groups nationwide and says he and his wife enjoy sharing their message about seeking God’s guidance to get through life’s struggles. Frank shared stories with the group about his corporate success and ability to overcome tragedy by using his faith.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 4TH

NORFOLK – The Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce is one step closer to moving into its new home. Chamber officials hosted various area business leaders and 2011 Miss America Theresa Scanlan for a Cornerstone Ceremony to dedicate the new Chamber building, set to open soon at the corner of 7th St. and Norfolk Avenue. Chamber President Dennis Houston says the ceremony is a way for Norfolk to cement its place in history. Houston says some work still needs to be done on the building, particularly on the inside. But. the Chamber and a handful of other economic development groups plan on moving in to the new building by April 20th.

NORFOLK– It was a night of celebrating stewardship, service and success in Norfolk Tuesday. With the theme of “Norfolk’s Finest Night”, hundreds were on hand for the Norfolk Area Chamber’s Annual Banquet. Those receiving awards include: Jim Brennenman – Edward I Vrzal Award
Mechele Grimes – Gerald Arkfeld Award, Kathy Svik – Ambassador of the Year, Scott Williams – Chairman’s Award, Jared Neuhalfen – CLIC person of the year. The Norfolk Oscar was awarded to all of the local businesses that are working on the new Chamber building at 7^th and Norfolk Avenue

NORFOLK– Along with recognizing great business accomplishments with awards, the Chamber Banquet also featured a special guest, Miss America 2011 Theresa Scanlan. Over the past year, the Gering, Nebraska Native spent a great deal of time talking to America’s youth, encouraging them to follow their passions and interests in their recipe for success. Those attending the banquet also had the chance to get an autograph and their picture taken with Scanlan. Earlier in the day Scanlan visited with students at Norfolk Jr High School.

NORFOLK– Along with numerous awards that were handed out at last night’s Norfolk Chamber Banquet, Chamber leaders also took the opportunity to introduce a new initiative called Grow Norfolk. Chamber President Dennis Houston says the program aims to solve the challenges faced by the business community with a unified approach by growing jobs, population, young professionals, internships and new entrepreneurs. Houston says portions of the new program will launch in the next 30 to 60 days.

NORFOLK– Norfolk residents are no doubt seeing a buzz of activity at Veterans Memorial Park. Norfolk City Works Manager Dennis Smith says there are numerous aspects of the ongoing renovations happening at the same time. Smith say parking lot work has begun west of the football field. In addition, workers are constructing water slides, building yard hydrants and painting at the AquaVenture Memorial Water Park. Smith says workers could be filling the pool with water for the first time within the next two weeks to run tests.

NORFOLK– The City of Norfolk is buying a piece of land to help bring a new homeowner to town. The City Council Monday approved the purchase of a piece of a vacated piece of property along S. 8th Street. City Housing Coordinator Gary Bretschneider says the purchase price of $13,000 is being covered using Community Revitalization grant funds. Bretschneider says the city will be building a new home on the property and sell it to a qualifying low-to-moderate income family with down payment assistance.

TUESDAY APRIL 3RD

NORFOLK – Five Norfolk-area teenagers are injured after a one-vehicle crash northwest of town. Madison County Deputy Sheriff Mike Prather says 17-year old McKenna Wiley was traveling westbound on Nucor Road just after 6 p.m. Monday, when the vehicle lost control, went into the north ditch and rolled, ending on its top. Wiley was ejected, while a passenger, 17-year old Mikaya Kramer was partially ejected. Both were life-flighted to Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City. Three other passengers were taken to Faith Regional Health Services. One of them, 14-year old Dylan Hall was eventually transferred to Creighton Medical Center of Omaha. The extent of the teenagers’ injuries is unknown at this time. The accident remains under investigation.

NORFOLK – Norfolk Police are investigating the burglary of a local business. Police Chief Bill Mizner says his department received a report about 6:30 Monday morning of a burglary at the Granada Beauty Salon on N. 5th Street. Investigators found that the burglar removed a window on the north door and took an undisclosed amount of cash, as well as bank bags and a box of blank checks among other items. The incident remains under investigation.

NORFOLK– How will the ongoing construction on 25th Street in Norfolk affect access to Skyview Park? City Works Manager Dennis Smith addressed that during Monday’s City Council meeting. Smith says workers have begun work on the 25th Street Bridge near the park. Smith says workers are hoping that park attendees won’t have their routines affected by the ongoing work.
Meanwhile, 25th Street is also still closed from Taylor Avenue to Highway 275. Smith says workers could have the concrete on the road in place by early next week. He didn’t give an estimate as to when that portion of the road would re-open.

NORFOLK– Community Groups outside of the City of Norfolk will be paying more to use Veterans Memorial Park for their events. The City Council voted unanimously Monday to amend a city ordinance in regards to the city’s fee schedule. City documents show that out-of-town groups that host all-day events at Veterans Memorial Field will pay $1,000, while in-town groups will pay $750. Out-of-town hourly rates for the field will also be $25 more per hour than in-town group sponsored events. City Administrator Shane Weidner says the ordinance lists in-town groups as those that fall within the Norfolk zoning jurisdiction. City officials met in a work session last week to outline the ordinance proposal. The general consensus was that Norfolk’s facilities will be considered a bargain price when compared to similar facilities in Nebraska.

MADISON– Former Norfolk City Councilman Rod Hughes is among those looking to get elected to the Madison County Board of Commissioners. Hughes currently works for the Lutheran High Northeast School District, and says he’s running for County Commissioner to try and shake up the status quo. Hughes says one thing he’d like to see change is the amount of taxes levied to property owners in Madison County. Hughes will be on the May Primary Ballot against incumbent Marty Griffith as well as Christian Ohl of the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce. The top two vote-getters in May will move on to the general election in November.

MONDAY APRIL 2ND

MADISON– The Madison County Clerk is reminding area residents that they must be registered to vote by May 4th in order to participate in the May 15th primary election. Clerk Nancy Scheer says voter registration forms can be found at the City Clerks office in each community. Forms may also be filled out in person at the Madison County Courthouse during business hours before May 4th at 6pm. Anyone wishing to mail in their voter registration need to make sure it’s postmarked no later than Friday, April 27th.

NORFOLK – Parts of 25th Street in Norfolk will be closed down for six months starting Monday. City officials say 25th St. between Benjamin Avenue and Maple Street will be shut down. Workers will be doing bridge replacement, grading and concrete pavement construction during this time. The detour route will utilize Norfolk Avenue, Highway 81 and Benjamin Avenue. Residents will still be able to get into Skyview park from the south along 25th Street. 25th St. from Highway 275 to Taylor Avenue will remain closed next week as well.

MADISON, Neb. (AP) - A Madison County District judge has upheld a ruling requiring a State Patrol trooper to pay a $75 fine and court costs for running a red light during a chase. District Judge Robert Ensz upheld the fine for Trooper Matthew Parron Friday. Parr was cited by Norfolk police in April 2010 after his cruiser collided with another vehicle at a Norfolk intersection. Prosecutors say Parr should have slowed down while going through the intersection while he was chasing a motorcyclist. Both the county court and district court agreed.

SATURDAY MARCH 31ST

NORFOLK – A standing-room crowd at Northeast Community College’s Cox Activities Center got a strong anti-bullying message Friday from someone for whom the subject hits too close to home. Kirk Smalley is the founder of the group Stand For the Silent. He and his wife have been traveling the country trying to raise awareness about bullying ever since their 11-year old son, Ty, committed suicide in their Oklahoma home in 2010 after being the victim of a school bully. Smalley says the power to stop bullying doesn’t rest with school authorities, but with the people he talks to every day. Smalley’s message is gaining steam. He and his wife had an audience with President Obama and the First Lady last March and a feature documentary Bully, which chronicles the Smalleys and other families, opened in theaters nationwide Friday.

PIERCE – Are you up for sampling Alligator meat this weekend? How about frog legs, bison or bear? If you like to try wild game, a freewill donation event in Pierce on Saturday is the place to be. The 2nd Annual wild game feed is a fundraiser for Zion Lutheran School in Pierce. Zion School Board President Ryan Collison says the event will also include a silent auction and raffles. Collison says the funds raised will be used to upgrade the school’s technology and curriculum. Collison says last year’s event served around 500 people and they’re hoping for more this year. The wild game feed will be held Saturday fro 5 to 8 p.m. at Taylor’s Bar and Grill in Pierce.

NORFOLK – The final of four preliminary amateur competitions for the Viaero Great American Comedy festival will be in Norfolk this weekend. Ten up-and-coming stand-ups will take the stage at Divots Saturday, with the top two decided by the audience moving on the finals in June. Comedy Festival veteran Karen Bergreen will be back to host the event. Tickets are $10 for the amateur night, which starts Saturday at 8 p.m. They can be purchased online at greatamericancomedyfestival.com.

FRIDAY MARCH 30TH

CENTER, Neb. (AP) - A Sioux Falls, S.D., man who escaped from a Knox County jail is back in custody after a chase. Knox County Sheriff Don Henery says 32-year-old Michael James Sigsbee escaped from the exercise yard of the county jail in Center on Thursday morning. Officers chased Sigsbee on foot until he stole a vehicle in Center. A Knox County deputy shot out a front tire but Sigsbee kept driving until he crashed through a pasture gate southeast of Center. He was captured a half-mile from the crash. Sigsbee is being held on a theft charge. He’s also wanted in Iowa.

NORFOLK – A Norfolk man is under arrest, facing burglary charges. Norfolk Police Chief Bill Mizner says 24-year old Jon Carlson was arrested Thursday, related to the investigation of a burglary that was reported on March 10th. Carlson is accused of stealing a laptop computer, video game system and a television among other items. Mizner says a separate investigation by the O’Neill PD led to Carlson’s identification and the recovery of the laptop. Carlson is currently housed in the Madison County Jail.

THURSDAY MARCH 29TH

NORFOLK – The City of Norfolk is closer to hiring its first ever Economic Development Director. City Human Resources Director Sheila Schukei says city officials have narrowed the field down to three finalists. The final three up for consideration are Madison lawyer Byron Brogan, Northeast Community College Director of Development Courtney Klein-Faust and Taylor, Michigan Director of Public Services David Mackie. The position was first announced by the city last December. City officials say they plan on having the position filled by this summer.

NORFOLK– Miss America 2011 Theresa Scanlan will be in Norfolk next week as the featured speaker at the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet. Monica Rotherham says some tickets still remain for Chamber members and members of the public who would like to attend “Norfolk’s Finest Night” next Tuesday at the Divots DeVent Center. Rotherham says along with a meal, the evening will also include the celebration of stewardship, service and success in the Norfolk area along with Scanlan’s message which focuses on the fight against eating disorders. The social hour begins at 5. During that time, those attending may get their photo taken with the Nebraska-native Miss America for a free-will donation to help Scanlan‘s cause. Tickets are $45 and be purchased through the Norfolk Chamber office at 402-371-4862.

NORFOLK– Norfolk Chamber leaders say they hope to be moved into their new facility at 7th and Norfolk avenue in April. During the Chamber banquet next week a report will be given on the progress of the building’s construction.

ARLINGTON, Va. – Some area businesses are being recognized for their efforts in supporting National Guardsmen. The Department of Defense has announced the semi-finalists for its annual Freedom Award. National Guard and reserve members nominate their employers for offering support to soldiers and their families while deployed. Among the Nebraska semi-finalists are Wis-Pak of Norfolk, the Norfolk Regional Center, Roth Feed Lots of Wisner and Columbus Community Hospital. The Burt County Sheriff’s Department won the award in 2011. Finalists will be announced in April, and the winner will attend a ceremony in Washington, D.C. in September.

STANTON – The Stanton Fire Department will be getting some new equipment thanks to a local donation. Stanton farmer Mark Kabes was one of Monsanto’s winners of the America’s Farmers Grow Communities contest. Kabes presented a check for $2500 to the fire department last week. Stanton Fire Chief Dallas Hinnerichs says the department will use the money to purchase a new breathing apparatus for the station.

NORFOLK– Several former Nebraska football players who just finished their playing careers will be switching sports in Norfolk this Friday for a good cause. The Husker Hoops Tour comes to the Norfolk High Gym Friday, as former Husker footballers like Lance Thorell, Austin Cassidy and Tyler Legate among others will be playing hoops against a group of local celebrities dubbed the “Hometown Heroes.” The event is sponsored by the Norfolk Noon Optimists. Noon Optimist officials say proceeds from the event will go towards the many youth events they sponsor throughout the year. Tickets are $5 and doors at Norfolk High School will open at 6 p.m. with tip-off set for 7:30. There will be autographs available after the game.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 28th

COLERIDGE (KTIV)– A Coleridge man has pleaded not guilty to felony arson charges following a series of suspicious fires. The Dixon County sheriff arrested Ahren Ferris, last month. In addition to the arson charges, Ferris faces charges of criminal mischief. Ferris will be back in court May 14th for a pre-trial hearing.

COLUMBUS– For the first time since 1994, someone other than Chuck Hassebrook will be representing Northeast Nebraska’s District Three on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. Hassebrook resigned from the board in February to focus on a campaign for U.S. Senate. Three candidates have emerged to take Hassebrook’s place. Among them is Columbus businessman Jim Pillen. Pillen is a veterinarian and owner of Progressive Swine Technologies. He says he decided to run for Board of Regents because he wants to help promote agricultural development at the school. Pillen says he’d like to see greater advocacy from UNL in attracting young people to agricultural careers. Pillen is one of three names on the May Primary Ballot, along with Norfolk lawyer David Copple and Columbus businessman Tony Raimondo, Jr.

NORFOLK– A Norfolk restaurant will take four days in June to undergo an exterior facelift and an interior remodel. Officials with Norfolk’s Village Inn say they are planning to close at the end of business on June 3rd and reopen June 8th. During that time, the restaurant will receive a major overhaul on the inside from floor to ceiling. The exterior will also receive new paint and new signage. The Norfolk store is one of 20 Villiage Inn restaurants expected to be remodeled in 2012. Local officials say they have also recently signed a new franchisee agreement that will keep them in Norfolk until at least 2020.

TUESDAY MARCH 27TH

PIERCE – Two brush fires in Pierce County kept numerous Fire Departments busy Monday evening. Firefighters were dispatched to a fire west of Hadar around 3:40 p.m. and another south of Pierce about 5:30 p.m. Pierce Fire Chief Terry Nathan says both fires were controlled burns issued on Saturday that restarted due to high winds. Nathan says the fire near Pierce swelled to about a mile long and about 600 feet wide before it was controlled. About 60 fire fighters from the Pierce, Hadar, Norfolk, Battle Creek and Osmond departments helped control both blazes, and Nathan says area farmers also offered assistance. Damage amounts are unknown, but a farm wagon and corn bin were destroyed in the fire. Northeast Nebraska remains under a fire weather warning. The National Weather Service says conditions across most of the state are right for more fires, and any fires that do start could spread easily because of the low humidity and wind.

NORFOLK– As Norfolk gets ready to open Veterans Memorial Park to the public this summer…city officials are working on what to charge groups who want to use the facilities. The Norfolk City Council held a work session Monday, where City Administrator Shane Weidner outlined a basic plan for how the city would charge groups to use the park. Weidner says while the city needs to make sure they can cover maintenance and upkeep costs, it’s also important to make sure Norfolk doesn’t chase anyone away with high usage fees. City staff researched various facilities at other first class cities to get an idea of what a fair usage fee would be. Weidner says the final fee plan will be presented the City Council soon for approval.

NORFOLK– It’s a week of transition for City of Norfolk employees this week. City staff have begun the process of moving out of the current offices at the City Auditorium and into the former Supertel Building on N. 5th St. City Administrator Shane Weidner says the transition is tough, but gratifying work. Weidner says to accommodate the change, the city offices will now be closed Thursday and Friday of this week. Weidner says the new offices will be ready to go on Monday, April 2nd.

MONDAY MARCH 26TH

MADISON – The trial of a woman accused of concealing the dead body of her husband in Madison is being delayed for a mental evaluation. The defense for 64-year old Jeanne Fry filed a motion Monday in Madison County District Court to have an evaluation ordered for Fry. Fry’s accused of keeping the dead body of her husband Jack in a camper the two shared at the Madison City Campground for months without reporting it. Fry pleaded not guilty to charges of unlawful discarding of human remains in February. District Court Judge James Kube delayed Fry’s trial Monday until the after mental health evaluation is completed.

PONCA, Neb. (AP) - A suspect in a northeast Nebraska stabbing has been returned to Nebraska after being captured in Iowa. A Dixon County dispatcher said Tuesday that 21-year-old Andres Surber, of Sioux City, Iowa, was in Dixon County’s jail in Ponca. Surber was arrested Sunday evening in Sioux City. He faces assault and weapons charges. Surber is accused of stabbing 22-year-old James Wagner, of Belden, Neb., late Sunday morning just outside of Concord in Dixon County.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) – A 22-year-old Norfolk man will go to trial in June on motor vehicle homicide and drunken driving charges resulting from a January one-vehicle rollover crash in Platte County that killed two people. Genaro Anaya has pleaded not guilty to two counts of motor vehicle homicide and one count of driving drunken driving. District Judge Robert Steinke has scheduled a jury trial for June 19. Witnesses say Anaya’s car was traveling at a high rate of speed, went out of control, and flipped six or seven times. Police say a breath test showed Anaya’s blood-alcohol content was nearly twice the legal limit.

DAKOTA DUNES, S.D. (KTIV)– Beef Products Incorporated has announced it’s suspending operations at three of it’s plants, and cutting back hours at its fourth in South Sioux City. There are about 450 workers at the BPI plant in South Sioux. They are cutting back on operations there and suspending operations in Waterloo, Iowa, Amarillo, Texas, and Garden City, Kansas. Those four plants make LTFB, also known as “lean, finely textured beef” or pink slime, which has recently come under fire. BPI co-founder Regina Roth, and other corporate administrators addressed the media at the company headquarters in Dakota Dunes, in the wake of several schools and businesses announcing they will no longer carry ground beef that contains BPI’s product, lean, finely textured beef. Roth says there have been 300 billion meals served as a result of their product and there’s never been one incident of eColi traced back to the product.

NEWMAN GROVE, Neb. (AP) – Newman Grove voters will head to the polls later this spring to decide whether to recall the city’s mayor. Opponents of Mayor Fawn Steiff say she lacks the skills required to function in the job and argue she spent money without the city council’s approval. She denies the allegations.

UNDATED – Millions of people were glued to this weekend’s college basketball games, and for many, there was money on the line whether as part of an office bracket pool or just a friendly wagers with friends. For a small number, that gambling is part of a larger problem. March is Gambling Awareness Month. Scott Adams with the Department of Health and Human Services says about 3 to 5 percent of gamblers are problem gamblers. Adams says there are various symptoms of problem gambling, and anyone who suspects a loved one or friend may have a problem should address the issue head on. Adams says anyone with questions or looking for further assistance can call the problem gambling hotline at 1-800-GAMBLER.

MADISON, Neb. (AP) - A 26-year-old northeast Nebraska woman has been sentenced to five to 10 years in prison for sexually assaulting an 11-year-old boy. Deanna Borer, of Norfolk, was sentenced Friday in Madison County
District Court for her conviction of first-degree sexual assault. Court documents say Borer witnessed her husband in sexual acts with the boy and that she also participated in sexually assaulting the boy. Her husband also faces trial on a first-degree sexual assault charge in the case. The judge in the case noted that Borer was a victim, herself, of child sexual assault, but said that did not absolve her.

LINCOLN (AP/US92) – Nebraska officials believe the state’s trees might be able to provide fuel for biomass energy projects, so this summer they will inventory the state’s forest resources. The Nebraska Forest Service plans to visit randomly selected locations in 48 of the state’s counties between April and September to evaluate trees. Adam Smith with the Nebraska Forest Service says woody biomass is an underutilized resource that can be used to heat buildings and generate electricity. Smith says Forest Service officials will be coming to homes in Madison, Stanton, Cuming, Cedar, Knox and Holt Counties this summer. Smith says his office is in the process of mailing landowners in these counties to inform them about the inventories as well as seek access to complete the inventories on their property.

PIERCE – A Northeast Nebraska Fire Division is getting a substantial donation from some local residents. Tim and Lynn Spatz of Pierce are donating $2500 to the Pierce Fire Department. The Spatz’s were selected as winners of Monsanto’s America’s Farmers Grow America contest, meaning they got to pick a non-profit to receive a donation from the agricultural corporation. The Spatz’s presented the check to the Pierce FD at the department headquarters in Pierce Monday evening.

FRIDAY MARCH 23RD

NORFOLK– Moving of the Norfolk City Engineering and Administrative offices is right on target and is set to begin next Monday. Last September, the city purchased an office building at 309 North 5th Street from hotel chain Supertel Hospitality, who moved to a smaller facility on the northern end of town. Since December of last year city officials have been working on some renovations inside the new building, including a new, larger city council chambers. Norfolk City Administrator Shane Weidner says the transition from the Norfolk City Auditorium to the new facility will take place Monday through Friday of next week. Weidner says the City offices at the old location will be closed on Friday March 30th and will open for business at the new location on Monday April 2nd.

NORFOLK– A display at the Norfolk Arts Center is showcasing local artistic talent and the local steel industry. The annual Ken Iverson Project is being held by NuCor Steel through April. 16 steel sculptures are on display at the Norfolk Arts Center, created by local high schoolers, college students and other community artists. Residents can vote for their favorite at the Arts Center, and all the sculptures will be auctioned off April 27th with the proceeds going to various industrial arts programs.

THURSDAY MARCH 22ND

UNDATED (AP/US92) – President Barack Obama’s decision to expedite approval of an oil pipeline between Oklahoma and Texas is drawing mixed reviews in Nebraska. Jane Kleeb of Bold Nebraska says the president’s decision is a disappointment because a fast approval could jeopardize land and water along the route. Kleeb helped organize opposition in Nebraska to TransCanada’s larger proposed Keystone XL pipeline. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Mike Johanns says while he thinks Obama’s decision is politically motivated, he hopes it’s the beginning of getting a pipeline in Nebraska. Johanns has co-sponsored legislation in the Senate that would fast-track approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline through Nebraska. State lawmakers passed a bill Tuesday aimed at restarting the environmental study of the potential route.

NORFOLK – A car fire northwest of Norfolk late Wednesday may be related to the robbery of a convenience store on Tuesday. Nebraska State Patrol Spokeswoman Deb Collins says officers responded to a request for assistance from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office just before ten p-m Wednesday. Officers found a vehicle fully engulfed in flames near the intersection of 49th Street and Eisenhower Parkway. Patrol investigators are working on figuring out who owns the car, and Collins says while nothing has been confirmed, the car may have been involved in the armed robbery of the Prime Stop gas station near Norfolk early Tuesday morning. Officials say the investigation is still continuing, and anyone with any information is urged to contact the State Patrol at (402) 370-3456.

NORFOLK – Two men face reckless driving charges following a one-vehicle accident Wednesday. The accident happened about 5 p.m. Wednesday near the intersection of Seventh Street and Prospect Avenue. Norfolk Police say it appears 43-year old Saul Ibarra of Norfolk and 20-year old Fausto Perez of Denison, Iowa were driving side-by-side northbound Seventh St., when Ibarra’s vehicle lost control, smashing into a telephone pole, damaging a phone box. Neither Ibarra nor Perez were seriously injured in the crash. Both were cited for willful reckless driving, among other charges.

NORFOLK– A portion of 25th street in Norfolk will be closed this morning so a residence affected by construction in the area can have the water service shut off. Norfolk Sewer Director Dennis Watts says 25th street from Hardison Drive south to Prospect Avenue, adjacent to the Norfolk water tower, will be closed from 8:30am until noon. If anyone has any questions or concerns, you’re asked to contact the Norfolk City offices.

ALBION– The Nebraska Department of Roads is looking for public input in Albion. District 3 Engineer with the NDOR Kevin Domogalla says Department will be holding a public hearing with the State Highway Commission at the Albion Fire Hall Friday. Domogalla says the Highway Construction Program and other state transportation issues will be discussed, with an opportunity for public input. The hearing will start Friday at 10 a.m.

SOUTH SIOUX CITY, Neb. (AP) – Police are still searching for a suspect who shot and wounded a man in South Sioux City. The shooting happened at a house in a neighborhood just before midnight on Tuesday. Police Lt. Chuck Carson says the victim is a 25-year-old man believed to be from Sioux City in Iowa. Carson says he was shot multiple times. The man’s name and condition haven’t been released.

NORFOLK (AP/US92) – State officials say Nebraskans are spending less time waiting on phone calls that relate to public benefits, thanks to a new customer center in Lexington. Interim Child and Family Services Director Scot Adams with the Department of Health and Human Services said while in Norfolk Wednesday that the average wait time has been steadily declining for recipients who have called the ACCESSNebraska hotline this year. Adams says the Department now has 346 staff members at its four customer service centers since the Lexington center opened in January, and they will continue to strive for shorter wait times. Adams says the hotline received more than 187,300 calls in February.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 21st

NORFOLK– Officials with the Nebraska say this morning that two men wanted in connection with a robbery at a Norfolk convenience store early Tuesday are still at large. The robbery occurred at Prime Stop North, which is just over the Madison-Pierce County line north of Norfolk along highway 81. Investigator Jason Sears says the subjects were armed with a shot gun and stole money and merchandise. Both men are described as being in their 20’s. One man was approximately 5 foot 10 inches tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds and was wearing a tan plaid flannel jacket with a hood, blue jeans, white tennis shoes and black gloves. The second man was approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 165 pounds and was wearing a black “hurley” long sleeve shirt with gloves and was carrying a blue and black backpack. If anyone has any information, you’re asked to contact the Nebraska State Patrol at 402-370-3456.

NORFOLK– Norfolk residents are starting to get an idea of what will await them when the Memorial AquaVenture Water Park opens in June. City Works Manager Dennis Smith updated the City Council on the progress of renovations to Veterans Memorial Park Monday. Smith says the first of the waterslide structures have begun to go up at the site. In addition, work has begun on the entrance to the park in front of the armory. Meanwhile, baseball and soccer both started play at Memorial Field on Saturday, but work is still being done. Smith says workers are focusing now on the concrete plaza between the baseball and football/soccer fields. The new configuration at the baseball stadium seats about 300, with room on either side for additional general admission.

TUESDAY MARCH 20TH

NORFOLK– Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating two men responsible for an armed robbery at a Convenience Store north of Norfolk early this morning. Investigator Jason Sears of the Nebraska State Patrol say the robbery occurred around 12:26am at Prime Stop on north Highway 81. Sears says the subjects were armed with a shot gun and stole money and merchandise. Both men are described as being in their 20’s and were wearing ski masks. One man was approximately 5 foot 10 inches tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds and was wearing a tan plaid flannel jacket with a hood, blue jeans, white tennis shoes and black gloves. The second man was approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 165 pounds and was wearing a black “hurley” long sleeve shirt with gloves and was carrying a blue and black backpack. The men are believed to be traveling in 1998 to 2006 Beige or Silver 4-door Buick vehicle. If anyone has more information, contact the Nebraska State Patrol 402-370-3456.

NORFOLK– A group of Norfolk residents are urging the City Council to take steps to prevent a Planned Parenthood clinic from opening in town. About 60 people attended Monday’s Council meeting, with four of them speaking out against Planned Parenthood in the public comments portion of the meeting. Richard Zimmerman with Norfolk Area Right to Life presented a petition signed by over 5000 Northeast Nebraskans that are against opening a clinic in Norfolk. Zimmerman acknowledged that the decision to bring Planned Parenthood to Norfolk isn’t up to the Council, but added that he thinks there are steps the Council can take. Planned Parenthood announced intentions in April of 2011 to open six new clinics in Nebraska, including one in Norfolk. At the time, a group spokeswoman said they hope to have the clinics opened sometime in the next five years.

NORFOLK– The City of Norfolk is buying a home that officials say will help expand renovations to Ta Ha Zouka Park. The City Council Monday approved the purchase of a property on McKinley Avenue from the current residents for over $181,000. City Property Manager Gary Miller says the current owners are vacating the home and approached the city about buying it. Miller says the house will be converted into a new Elkhorn Cabin, while the old Cabin will be removed. Miller says the removal will allow further development of a trail that will go from 1st to 13th street through Ta Ha Zouka. Miller says the city will be using money from the Capital Projects Fund that was originally intended for a paving project at Skyview Park for the purchase.

VALLEY– Weather officials are hoping to help prepare Nebraskans for severe weather season, as Severe Weather Awareness week is this week statewide. The National Weather Service is raising awareness of being weather-ready, after a record-breaking 2011 that saw almost 1700 tornadoes nationwide, 55 of which were in Nebraska. June was, as usual, the most prolific month for tornadoes last year, with 25 reported, 12 of which happened on June 20th. Tornadoes stayed prolific well into late August, when a storm dropped softball size hail near the towns of Bloomfield and Martinsburg. Weather Service officials are urging residents to prepare for not just the threat of tornadoes, but the dangers caused by lightning and flash flooding. The NWS is planning a statewide tornado drill during the 10 o’clock hour Wednesday. More information on being weather-ready can be found at weather.gov.

SATURDAY MARCH 17TH

NORFOLK, Neb. (AP) – A man accused of shooting a woman in Norfolk has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree assault and use of a firearm to commit a felony. 34-year-old Carlos Arevalo-Martinez entered his plea on Friday in Madison County District Court. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for April 23. Arevalo-Martinez is accused of shooting 33-year-old Edna Gutierrez on Feb. 14. According to court documents, he allegedly shot her over a drug debt. Gutierrez, who was shot in the head, survived and was hospitalized in Omaha. Gutierrez’s current whereabouts and condition aren’t being released. Arevalo-Martinez remains in jail on $1 million bond.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – A co-op must pay penalties totaling nearly $187,000 over the death of a worker at a Stanton grain elevator. Federal prosecutors say Farmers Union Cooperative Supply was sentenced Friday in U.S. District Court in Lincoln. The co-op had pleaded guilty to willfully violating federal safety regulations, causing the death of an employee. Sixty-seven-year-old Donald Stodola was found dead inside a grain pit at the co-op elevatoron June 19, 2009. An autopsy showed that he was asphyxiated. Authorities say the co-op knew the safety regulations regarding oxygen levels in confined areas but didn’t follow them.

NORFOLK– Three men have been cited for discharging a firearm within city limits following an incident late Wednesday morning. Norfolk Police Chief Bill Mizner says a motorist called to report that occupants of a pickup that had left the NECC campus had possibly shot at her vehicle. According to Mizner, the driver and three occupants of the vehicle traveled from the college campus to the area of 1st and Madison Avenue where they turned around and headed back to campus. During that time, the passengers were shooting Airsoft guns at several signs and vehicles. Those cited include 20-year-old Ryan Dowling of Carroll, 18-year-old Zach Hamilton and 19-year-old Curtis Thompson of Norfolk. They were each cited for discharging a firearm in the city limits and disturbing the peace. In addition, Hamilton and Thompson were cited for minor in possession of alcohol.

NORFOLK– With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, the Nebraska State Patrol is taking steps to make sure everyone celebrates safely this weekend. State Patrol officials say over 260 hours of overtime will be put in over all six patrol troops. The Norfolk-based Troop B has 23 counties to patrol, including the cities of O’Neill and Wisner, which are both planning full-day celebrations. Troop B Commander Paul Hattan says his patrol will be doing what they can to assist local law enforcement.
Hattan says state troopers will be mostly focused on the main highways, making sure people are wearing their seatbelts and aren’t drinking and driving. The extra patrol is being paid for in part with an almost $6000 grant from the state Office of Highway Safety.

FRIDAY MARCH 16TH

NORFOLK– Northeast Nebraskans can get ideas for their upcoming spring and summer projects in Norfolk this weekend. The Northeast Nebraska Home and Garden show returns Friday through Sunday at the Northeast Community College Ag Complex. Over 100 vendors will be on hand, and Don Wisnieski with the Norfolk Area Home Builders says attendees can find ways to build from the ground up. The Home Show runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 to 8 on Saturday and 11 to 4 on Sunday. Admission is $3, or $2 with the donation of a canned good.

O’NEILL– St. Patrick’s Day and the city of O’Neill have become synonymous, but there will be another attraction in the Holt County town this Saturday. The Viaero Great American Comedy Festival is holding its third amateur competition at the O’Neill Community Center on Saturday. Thirteen amateur comedians will be competing, with the top two advancing to the amateur finals on June 13th in Norfolk. Comedy festival veteran Deacon Gray will be hosting Saturday’s show, which kicks off at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance, and can be purchased at greatamericancomedyfestival.com.

NEWMAN GROVE, Neb. (AP) - A small-town Nebraska banker is the new chairman of a national community banking group. Jeffrey Gerhart began leading the Independent Community Bankers of America this week. He’s the chairman, president and CEO of the Bank of Newman Grove.

THURSDAY MARCH 15th

MINOT, N.D. – The Orphan Grain Train is continuing its assistance with the cleanup of Minot, N.D. after record flooding there last summer. OGT officials say five mobile units are on scene in the North Dakota town, that saw over 4000 homes made inhabitable due to flood waters. A mobile disaster kitchen has just arrived, and 17 other mobile disaster units have been dispatched to aid in recovery and clean-up. The Grain Train says plans are to have units placed and ready for volunteers to begin arriving in May. Anyone willing to help can contact the Orphan Grain Train in Norfolk.

DAKOTA CITY, Neb. (KTIV) - The name of a Tyson Foods employee who was killed at the company’s Dakota City plant Wednesday evening has been released. Officials say 37-year old Rodney Bridgett was working on a piece of machinery when it collapsed on it him. He was transported by Dakota City Rescue to Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, where he later died. Tyson says it has notified the Occupational Safety and Health Administration about the accident. The company’s team of safety and operations management staff members are also investigating. Because of the accident, the first shift operations in the beef carcass production part of the Tyson Foods plant were canceled.

STANTON (KTIV/US92)– Two Norfolk teens are in the hospital after an accident that closed a busy stretch of northeast Nebraska highway for about a half-an-hour Wednesday afternoon. It happened at 4:30pm about two miles east of Norfolk along highway 275. Stanton County sheriff Mike Unger says 17-year-old Jordan Brady, of Norfolk, lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle crossed the median and rolled. The force threw Brady from the vehicle. He was airlifted to Mercy Medical Center, in Sioux City, where he’s in stable condition. A passenger, 16-year-old Brandy Avery, of Norfolk, was also hurt. She was taken to Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk. Investigators say neither Brady, nor Avery, were wearing seatbelts. The crash closed both lanes of highway 275 for around 30 minutes.

HAY SPRINGS, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska State Patrol seized 14 pounds of marijuana after a car rolled through a stop sign in the Panhandle. Spokeswoman Deb Collins says the two people inside the car agreed to let the trooper search the vehicle on Highway 20 after it was pulled over Tuesday night. A South Dakota man and a Norfolk woman were arrested.

NORFOLK – A Norfolk juvenile is under arrest after trying to fight police officers in a Norfolk store parking lot. Norfolk Police Chief Bill Mizner says the unidentified juvenile was originally placed into custody for stealing a flashlight out of a car parked at the Hastings Store on 20th St Wednesday afternoon. The teen then began punching the police cruiser window, and shoved and punched the officers in an attempt to escape. He was restrained and now faces felony assault charges in addition to charges of theft.

NORFOLK– A conference that came to Norfolk Thursday broached the topic of child molestation and how to prevent it. The Northeast Nebraska Child Advocacy Center hosted the conference. Prevention Specialist Chance Buss says attendees learned what to look for and how to prevent child molestation and sexual abuse. Buss says molestation is reaching epidemic levels, as 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 7 boys will have been sexually abused by their 18th birthday. Buss also says it’s not necessarily strangers doing the abuse.
Thursday’s conference also featured a keynote speaker from the Center for Behavioral Intervention in Oregon, who works directly with child molesters on what signs to look for.

NORFOLK– After eight years in a Unicameral government, Valentine State Senator Deb Fischer hopes make the leap to partisan politics. The Republican candidate for outgoing U.S. Senator Ben Nelson’s seat says her experience in a non-partisan government can serve her well as she looks to jump to the next level. Fischer says her experience in the state legislature will allow her to get results across party lines. Fischer made campaign stops in Norfolk and Madison this week. She’s one of four republican candidates in the May primary, along with Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Treasurer Don Stenberg and Schuyler businessman Pat Flynn.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - The Vision Iowa Board has awarded more than $21,000 to help restore the Iowa home of famed comedian Johnny Carson. The grant was approved Wednesday by the economic development agency’s board at its meeting in Des Moines. Backers hope to restore the house to its 1925 layout and fill it with Carson memorabilia. Carson was born in Corning in 1925 and lived there for three years. Then the family moved to Norfolk, Neb., where he graduated high school before attending the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 14th

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Gov. Dave Heineman has signed into a law a measure that will move one judge position out of a rural Nebraska district to help with a growing caseload in the Lincoln area. The measure by Lincoln Sen. Colby Coash shifts the judgeship from 5th judicial district, which includes Platte, Boone and Colfax counties, to the 3rd district, which encompasses Lancaster County. The Nebraska Supreme Court says the workload in the more rural 5th district is large enough to require nearly five judges, but it currently has six. Lancaster County has six judges, but needs more than eight.

SCRIBNER, Neb. (AP) – Voters in the Scribner-Snyder Community Schools district have rejected bond measures. Dodge County officials say around 61 percent voted against proposals Tuesday for a replacement junior/senior high school. The first measure would have cost nearly $7.5 million. The second proposal asked voters whether the new school should have a gymnasium, which would have raised the cost to nearly $9 million. The defeat means continued use of the current building, which was built in 1923.
Superintendent Ginger Meyer says the building has fire code and accessibility problems that must be addressed.

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) – Two former students at Lindsay Holy Family school in Lindsay are denying allegations that they secretly made videos of the girls basketball team in the locker rooms. A Platte County juvenile court judge accepted the boys’ denials on Monday and scheduled pretrial hearings on March 26. The boys are accused of videotaping members of the team during a three-week period in January. One boy is accused of unlawful intrusion. The other is accused of aiding and abetting unlawful intrusion. School officials and the county attorney’s office have not released details of the allegations.

NORFOLK– Dairy farmers and producers from all over are gathered in Norfolk for the two-day Nebraska Dairy Convention. The annual event is being held at the Divots Conference Center this year, featuring various seminars from dairy industry experts from all over the Midwest. The featured speaker this year was Olympic gold medalist, former Husker football player and Shelby native Curt Tomasevicz. Tomasevicz says he likes sharing how the ag industry helped propel him to success. The convention will wrap up Wednesday with board meetings featuring the various groups that represent dairy interests in Nebraska.

TUESDAY MARCH 13th

NORFOLK – A Tilden woman is in jail after letting her 11-year old daughter drive three adult females who had been drinking. Norfolk Police Chief Bill Mizner says 32-year old Jennifer Etgen was arrested early Tuesday morning. Mizner says an officer saw a truck heading east on Michigan Avenue slowly swerving and nearly striking the curb several times. The officer stopped the pickup to see the 11-year old behind the wheel and Etgen in the passenger seat with two other women in the back. Etgen told the officer the three adults had been drinking, leaving the 11-year old as the only option to drive. Etgen was arrested on felony child abuse, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and open container. The 11-year old has been placed in protective custody.

WAKEFIELD (KTIV)– Two men are in custody, and one person is in the hospital, after a stabbing near a Wakefield bar. According to authorities, 21-year-old Alexis DePaz-Ortiz and 24-year-old Limberg DePaz-Espinoza, both of Wayne, were arrested a few blocks from the scene just outside the El Patrone bar. DePaz-Ortiz, who allegedly stabbed the victim, faces three charges including assault while using a deadly weapon. DePaz-Espinosa also faces three charges including two counts of assault. The victim’s name is not being released. He remains in the care of Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – Two inmates who escaped from a southeast South Dakota jail have been located in Norfolk, Nebraska. The Charles Mix County Sheriff’s Office and the Division of Criminal Investigation says 34-year-old Edward Antelope and 28-year-old Donald Cournoyer were apprehended Monday near Norfolk without incident. The two inmates were being held on Yankton Sioux Tribe charges and had state charges pending when they escaped from the Charles Mix County jail Wednesday. Authorities say the two men are awaiting extradition.

NORFOLK– With gas prices continuing to climb, a US Senate candidate from Nebraska is outlining plans that she says can help alleviate the pressure at the pump. State Senator Deb Fischer outlined an energy plan last week that would promote domestic oil production and further develop alternative energy, while also expanding nuclear and coal power. Fischer said while in Norfolk Monday that one of the major problems facing the nation is the lack of a cohesive, long-term energy policy. Fischer is among four Republicans seeking the Senate seat now held by Sen. Ben Nelson, a Democrat. The others are state Attorney General Jon Bruning, state Treasurer Don Stenberg and Schuyler investment adviser Pat Flynn.

NORFOLK– The Norfolk Public School District is being recognized by a technology giant for their efforts to educate students in technology. Representatives from Apple Corp. presented Teaching Assistant Lisa Pospisil and a group of students with a Distinguished Program Award. The award recognized the school district’s annual Pod Fair, which uses various activities to teach students how to utilize I-pods and I-pads in their classrooms and beyond. Mark Billington with Apple says the pod fairs are an amazing achievement for the district. The school district received a plaque from Apple, as well as a gift certificate good for the purchase of new apps.

NORFOLK– The Norfolk Public School District is looking to branch out technologically. The School Board Monday approved a resolution stating their intent to participate in a technology co-op. Superintendent Dr. Marlene Uhing says the district will be looking to other area schools and ESU’s to form a co-op that would use existing bond money to purchase or upgrade technology at the schools. Uhing says the amount of general obligation bonds wouldn’t exceed $100,000 and that the school still needs to find area partners to form the co-op.

NORFOLK – The Norfolk Public School District is taking steps to protect its operating budget long-term. The School Board Monday approved a budget increase of $1.8 million to the general fund. School Finance Manager Vicky Schwartz says the move won’t change the district’s tax levy, nor will it increase district spending. Superintendent Dr. Marlene Uhing says the district is making the move to provide a broader financial base, should the district see unforeseen state or federal aid.

MONDAY MARCH 12

NORFOLK – A Norfolk man is under arrest after his infant son was hospitalized with injuries. Norfolk Police Chief Bill Mizner says 23-year old Jeffrey Ratliff was arrested Sunday. Ratliff’s infant child was brought to Faith Regional Health Services Sunday afternoon. The child was found to have a broken femur. And was sent to Children’s Hospital in Omaha for further medical attention. Police arrested Ratliff on felony abuse charges. He’s currently housed in the Madison County Jail.

NELIGH, Neb. (AP) - Three people have been arrested on arson or accessory charges stemming from a suspicious fire nearly two years ago in Neligh. 43-year-old Jerry Torres is charged with arson. His wife, 41-year-old Evelyn Torres, is charged with aiding and abetting and being an accessory to the felony, as is 60-year-old Daphne Hansen. In court records, investigators say Hansen claimed a financial interest in the home and that she asked Jerry Torres to set the fire. Investigators say Hansen and Evelyn Torres and Hansen helped him with the logistics. No fire injuries were reported.

NORFOLK– Construction work on a major Norfolk thoroughfare is set to begin Monday. City officials say 25th street will be closed for a roughly one block area surrounding the intersection with Taylor avenue. To accommodate the construction, the road will be closed from near the north entrance to Pizza Hut south to the Highway 275 bypass. Access to the restaurant will only be available from the north. All businesses east of 25th street will need to be accessed either from 24th street or from Pasewalk Avenue. This phase of the project is expected to take 6 weeks. In addition, Century Link will be working on telephone relocations along 25th street between Benjamin Avenue and Maple Avenue. Trees will also be removed along 25th street during this time. The work is part of a project that will eventually widen 25th street to 3-lanes instead of the current two lanes.

SCRIBNER, Neb. (AP) - Two questions face voters in the Scribner-Snyder Community Schools district. The first is whether to issue bonds to pay for a replacement junior/senior high school that would cost nearly $7.5 million. The second question is whether the new school should have a gymnasium, which would raise the cost to nearly $9 million. The school board opted for a new building because renovating the current structure would have cost more than $10 million. Superintendent Ginger Meyer says the current building has fire code and accessibility problems that must be addressed.

NORFOLK– Dairy Producers from all across Nebraska will be in Norfolk this week for annual Nebraska Dairy Convention. The theme for this year’s Nebraska Dairy Convention is “The Future is NOW”. It will include a number of informative speakers and sessions. Some of them include managing risk and seizing opportunities in 2012 and beyond, nutrient management, animal welfare and even a session focusing on what the dairy association is doing to support a health and wellness initiative for children. The convention is this Tuesday and Wednesday at the Divots Conference Center in Norfolk. Tuesday’s events will wrap up with a wine and cheese reception with a special guest, Olympic Bobsledding champion and Nebraska native Curt Tomascevicz. The Nebraska Dairy Princess will also be crowned. Registration for the convention is free to all Nebraska dairy producers, families and guests.

NORFOLK – Students at Norfolk’s Christ Lutheran Elementary School had a special visitor talk to them about the importance of reading Monday. First Lady Sally Ganem visited Christ Lutheran during an assembly Monday. The school kicked off a reading promotion Monday where every student and teacher will be reading a chapter of C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, and Ganem was on hand to read students the first chapter. Ganem is a former teacher and school administrator, and says she enjoys getting back to schools to get kids interested in reading. Ganem also fielded questions from the students about living in the Governor’s Mansion, and read Mo Willems’ The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog.

FRIDAY MARCH 9TH

SIOUX CITY, IA (KTIV)– A dispute continues for the two groups who oversee operations at Argosy Casino in Sioux City. The Missouri River Historical Development and Penn National went before the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission Thursday. The Commission granted a contract extension until June 7th so they can work out their differences. At issue is a new operating contract that would move the casino to dry land. Both groups favor the move, but Penn National and MRHD both have differing proposals on how to get there. The current 20-year contract will come to an end July 6th. Both Penn National and MRHD have said they will continue to meet to work together to resolve the contract dispute.

NORFOLK– The Northeast Community College Board of Governors gave their approval Thursday to an increase in tuition for the 2012-2013 academic year. The cost per credit hour will go up $3.00 for residents and $3.75 for out-of-state residents. With the changes, the total cost for tuition and fees for next year will increase from $88.50 to $91.50 per credit hour for in-state students. NECC Vice President of Administrative Services, Lynne Koski, says before the rates were changed, a comparative study was done which included colleges in surrounding states along with area Universities and Wayne State College. The Northeast Board of Governors gave their unanimous approval to the rate increase.

NORFOLK– A new pedestrian walkway and shade structure project at Northeast Community College will soon get underway on the college’s Norfolk campus. During Thursday’s Board of Governor’s meeting, the board awarded a bid of just over $1.6 million dollars to BD construction company of Columbus, who is will get started as soon as school is out for the summer. Northeast Vice President of Administrative Services, Lynne Koski, says the project through the middle of the campus will include a number of infrastructure improvements and pleasing features. The new pedestrian walkway and shade structure project is scheduled to be complete in October of this year.

NORFOLK– Republican U.S. Senate candidate Deb Fischer is hoping to bring ag issues to the forefront of her campaign. The State Senator from Valentine is also a rancher, and says Nebraska’s ag industry has protected it from the nation’s economic woes. Fischer’s campaign has won some big ag industry endorsements. The National Cattlemen Beef Association Political Action Committee is backing Fischer, and have contributed to her campaign. She is one of four Republican candidates. Fischer will be in Norfolk and Madison Monday to meet with area residents. She will be at Louderback Cafe in Madison Monday at 9:30am and at the Elkhorn Valley Museum in Norfolk at 5pm.

DAKOTA CITY, Neb. (AP) – McWashington needs a new home. The top bidder for a McNugget that resembles President George Washington has chickened out of the $8,100 deal. Rebekah Speight of Dakota City, says the bidder was “very sorry” but had to back out. Speight says she has had the McNugget stashed in her freezer for three years and decided to sell it on eBay to help raise money for a drive to send children to church camp this summer.
Speight says eBay rules allow her to offer the McNugget to the second-highest bidder, who had offered $8,000. If that falls through, she can offer it to the third-highest bidder and so on. She has 60 days to decide what to do.

THURSDAY MARCH 8TH

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) – University of Nebraska Regent Chuck Hassebrook has dropped out of the race for Nebraska’s open U.S. Senate seat and is endorsing his fellow Democrat, former U.S. Sen. Bob Kerrey. The Lyons native announced his departure from the race at a Thursday news conference in Omaha held with Kerrey. The move came amid speculation that Hassebrook was having trouble raising money to mount an effective campaign against the better-known Kerrey. Hassebrook made his announcement the morning after he abruptly canceled a Wednesday night Lincoln fundraiser. Hassebrook had entered the race last month, days after Kerrey initially announced he wouldn’t seek the Senate seat. Hassebrook gave up his chance for re-election to the regent’s seat he’s held for nearly 18 years.

NORFOLK– It’s been a busy first few weeks for Northeast Community College’s new president. Since taking over officially as school president in January, Dr. Michael Chipps has visited Washington, D.C. as part of a legislative summit with school officials, traveled to California to work with Apple on a new technology opportunity for the school and sat with the Higher Learning Association Board of Trustees in Chicago. Chipps says he is starting to get used to life on Norfolk’s campus, and says his focus has largely been on making sure that Northeast leads the way in rural revitalization in Northeast Nebraska, by keeping students in the area after graduation. Chipps says one major asset the school has in terms of networking is the recently opened off-campus building in South Sioux City. Interested residents can meet Dr. Chipps face-to-face Thursday. The school is hosting a public open house with the president at the Lifelong Learning Center starting at 4 p.m.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 7TH

NORFOLK– After an out-of-the-ordinary winter, the change from winter weather to spring is upon us and that means severe weather season will soon begin. This week Storm Spotter Training session are being held in two Northeast Nebraska communities to help teach it’s residents how to warn when the storms are coming and how to report damage. The National Weather Service office in Valley sponsored a training session in Norfolk last night and will hold another Thursday at the Neligh fire hall at 7pm. Meteorologist Jon Meyer says it’s important to them to have additional eyes and ears, because they can’t do it alone. The National Weather Service is a very small national agency with only 4,600 employees nation-wide. Meyer says forecasters are anticipating an active spring weather season.

NORFOLK – Nebraska volleyball might be playing a spring game in Norfolk this April. Norfolk Area Sports Council Director Mike Fuehrer says in a press release the Husker Volleyball team will be playing North Dakota St. on April 7th at Northeast Community College’s Cox Activities Center. Northeast Athletic Director Kurt Pytleski says a deal with the Huskers hasn’t yet been finalized, but that they are looking at Norfolk as one of the likely locations for their annual spring games. Nebraska announced Tuesday that they will play Wichita St. in an exhibition in Lincoln on April 14th.

TUESDAY MARCH 6TH

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) – Two former students at Lindsay Holy Family school are accused of secretly making videos of the school’s girls basketball team in the locker rooms. Petitions filed in juvenile court in Platte County accused the boys in the videotaping during a three week-period in January. The county attorney’s office filed the petitions last week. One boy is accused of unlawful intrusion. The other is accused of aiding and abetting unlawful intrusion. School officials and the county attorney’s office declined to release details of the allegations.

NORFOLK– Norfolk’s Household Hazardous Waste building is finally ready to be built. The City Council approved a contract for almost $227,000 to build the new facility. The City received two bids for the project in November, both of which were over $100,000 over the estimates. City officials have worked with Contractor J.H. Hespe on modifications that brought the cost down about $75,000. Part of the cost will be covered by the Nebraska Environmental Trust and Lower Elkhorn NRD, leaving the Norfolk Solid Waste Division to cover about $72,000 of the construction costs. City officials say they don’t believe a rate adjustment will be required to complete the project.

NORFOLK– Renovations at Norfolk’s Veterans Memorial Park are getting closer to completion. City Works Manager Dennis Smith provided the Norfolk City Council with an update on the voter-approved renovations. Smith says masonry work should be done within 2-3 weeks. Smith says both the baseball field and aquatic center are on schedule for completion. The Council approved a change order on work to the multi-purpose facility, adding about $14,000 to the cost. Smith says the changes reflect the addition of a water softener as well as changing the storm sewer piping material among other changes. He says the city is still within budget for the project. The Council also approved a contract for over $40,000 to purchase recreation equipment for Veterans Memorial Park.

NORFOLK– A program in Norfolk, is helping young adults with disabilities to gain and maintain employment through training and exploration. Project SEARCH is a program established through Norfolk Public Schools and Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation. It’s a business-led collaboration, and the cornerstone is total emersion in a large business. Each day, school students report to the host business, learn employability skills and participate in one to three worksite rotations over the course of the school year. An open house for Project SEARCH will be held at Faith Regional Health Services’ west campus in Norfolk today from 3 to 4:30pm. There, school administrators, special education teachers, potential students and their parents interested in applying will learn more about the program and what a typical day involves. Current students will also be there to show the skills they’ve learned. Along with interested participants, today’s open house is also for businesses who are interested in taking part.

NORFOLK – The City of Norfolk is looking to help low-income families purchase their first home. Officials with Norfolk’s Housing Development Division say they’ve been granted $105,000 from USDA Rural Development to help with down payment assistance for three Norfolk properties. Gary Bretschneider with the Norfolk Housing Division says the city has purchased three lots on S. 7th St., S. 8th St. and W. Park St. that will have new homes built on them this spring and summer. Bretschneider says now the city’s looking for qualified families to purchase the homes. Bretschneider says the city has about six months to spend the grant money and get the homes filled. Anyone interested in seeing if they qualify can contact the City of Norfolk’s Housing Development Division.

PLAINVIEW – The Northeast Nebraska RC&D is doing it’s part to get rid of so-called “E-Waste”. The RC&D is sponsoring an electronics recycling program through March 21st. Program Support Assistant Carol Peters says 83 households and businesses in 23 communities have already dropped off obsolete and unused electronic equipment, to be properly disposed of by an Omaha company. The project is funded in part by a City of Plainview KENO grant. Anyone willing to participate can contact the RC&D office (402-582-4866) for more information.

MONDAY MARCH 5TH

WASHINGTON (AP) - A lawyer for the family of an American man sentenced to death in Iran welcomed word of a retrial Monday. Pierre Prosper told The Associated Press the family is still seeking details about the surprise announcement from Tehran. Former Marine Amir Hekmati, who attended elementary school in Wayne, was convicted in January on charges he is an American spy. His family denies that. Prosper says he is “waiting for official confirmation, but we are pleased with reports coming out of Tehran.” Prosper says the family looks forward to working with the Iranian government. Other Americans have been released after months or years in Iranian jails. Prosper says an appeal has been in the works and progress in the case may be unrelated to the escalating pressure on Iran over its nuclear program.

SPALDING, Neb. (AP) - Fire has heavily damaged a nearly century-old Catholic church in Spalding. The fire was spotted around 1 p.m. Friday by the priest of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. The Rev. Don Buhrman says he went to the main body of the church and opened the door to thick, black smoke. Buhrman says the fire started in the altar servers’ sacristy. Firefighters put it out before it spread to other parts of the church, but much of the church has smoke and water damage. Buhrman says the state fire marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire.

NORFOLK – A Norfolk man was arrested after being assaulted by four men early Sunday morning. Norfolk Police Chief Bill Mizner says 30-year old Benjamin Blum was arrested just after midnight Sunday, after police were called to a report of a fight in progress near Norfolk’s Depot Bar. Officers found Blum lying on the ground with a head injury, suffered when he was attacked by four unknown male subjects. Blum was treated and released at Faith Regional Health Services, and then arrested for outstanding warrants and a protection order violation. The assault investigation is ongoing.

NORFOLK – A North Platte man is out on bond after being arrested for theft in Norfolk on Friday. Norfolk Police say 21-year old Lucas Swarthout was arrested at Norfolk’s Budget Inn. Officers were called to the Norfolk Wal-Mart after store officials say Swarthout left with over $300 in stolen items. Swarthout was released after posting a $400 bond. His initial appearance is not yet in the online court system.

DAKOTA CITY, Neb. (AP) - A McDonald’s Chicken McNugget that resembles President George Washington has brought $8,100 on eBay. Bidding ended just after 11:30 a.m. on Monday. Rebekah Speight, of Dakota City, sold the McNugget to raise money for a church summer camp. The Sioux City Family Worship Center is raising $15,000 to send 50 children to summer camp. Speight says the McNugget almost became a snack during a visit to a Sioux City McDonald’s three years ago. Her children didn’t eat the chicken and she was about to toss it when she spotted Washington’s resemblance.

NORFOLK– Three years ago, the average price of gas a the pump, was $1.90 per gallon. Today, that number has jumped nearly two dollars per gallon. Nebraska’s First District Congressman Jeff Fortenberry says demand and global instability are part of the issue, but not the full cause. He says supply-and-demand fundamentals haven’t shifted significantly enough to fully explain the prices we see today. While in Norfolk last Friday, Fortenberry said he and other members of Congress are worried about what he calls a speculative premium. “What that means is, that we’re very worried that the actual market itself that’s designed to mitigate volatility and hedge risk is actually increasing risk and volatility and forcing up, artificially, the price of oil”, Fortenberry said. The Republican Congressman says the second factor he believes is leading to higher fuel prices is the Nation’s rising debt load. He says “That weakens the dollar, that skyrockets the price of the oil commodity on the futures markets and you’re seeing that at the price of the pump. So, this is a form of taxation for the deficits and debt that are being run up in Washington.” Congressman Fortenberry said that energy security is not a partisan issue, it’s an American issue. He says we, as a nation, must embrace and explore all options to improve our energy security.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A science teacher from O’Neill is the winner of the 2012 Christa McAuliffe Prize, awarded by the College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Bryan Corkle, who has taught in O’Neill since 2004, was honored March 4. He receives $1,000, and his school gets $500. The McAuliffe Prize was created in 1987 to honor the first teacher-astronaut Christa McAuliffe, who died in the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger in 1986. Corkle has performed the role of advocate for troubled youth in his school, pushing for a mentorship program that matches staff members with students who are struggling.

FRIDAY MARCH 2ND

MADISON– Now that the non-incumbent deadline has passed for this year’s elections, we have the full scope of candidacies. In the race for Norfolk Mayor, incumbent Sue Fuchtman will be challenged by current councilman Dave Fauss. Meanwhile Three of four Norfolk city council ward races will be contested. In Ward 2, incumbent Jim Lange has filed for re-election and will be challenged by Bill Hattery. In Ward 3, the incumbent Jim Brennenman did not file for re-election, however there are two candidates in Josh Moeninning and Jim Miller. In Ward 4, incumbent Thad Murren has filed for re-election and will be challenged by Libby McKay and Michelle Sanchez.

MADISON– In the race for Madison County Commissioner, District 2, three candidates have filed for the position. The candidates include incumbent Marty Griffith and challengers Christian Ohl and Rod Hughes. Hughes filed his paper work Thursday afternoon. The district 2 seat represents most of the City of Norfolk.

MADISON-- When it comes to the three open seats on the Norfolk Public School Board of Education, a total of 7 candidates have filed. They include three incumbents, Joel Carlson, Clark Froelich and Alfredo Ramirez and challengers Sandy Wolfe, Troy Brooks, Bob Waite and Arnie Robinson.

MADISON– Other last minute filings Thursday included Robert Flood of Newman Grove who is running for Newman Grove City Council and William Jepsen of Norfolk, who is seeking a position on the Norfolk Airport Authority.

LINCOLN– When it comes to state-wide races, there are now two candidates who have filed to run for Legislative seat now held by Speaker Mike Flood. Flood is in the final year of his 8-year term. Those interested in filling the District 19 seat include Jim Scheer of Norfolk, who filed last month and also William Goodpasture of Woodland Park who filed with the Secretary of State on Thursday. Scheer has held a position on the Nebraska State Board of Education. Tom Schommer of Norfolk recently announced that he would seek that open seat. Rachel Wise of Oakland has also filed to run for the seat

COLUMBUS, Neb. (AP) - A Columbus business executive has entered the race for the District 3 seat on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. Tony Raimondo Jr. announced his candidacy yesterday. He joins David Copple and Jim Pillen in the race to replace Chuck Hassebrook.

THURSDAY MARCH 1ST

DAKOTA CITY, Neb. (AP) – Tyson Foods Inc. says major improvements at its Dakota City beef plant in northeast Nebraska could lead to the closure of a smaller beef plant in Denison, Iowa. In a news release Thursday, Tyson says the multimillion-dollar project will upgrade parts of the plant that were built almost 50 years ago. The work is scheduled to be finished by mid-2013. Tyson says the changes will lead to the addition of about 200 production jobs. And Tyson says the plant won’t need a supplemental supply of carcasses from the Denison plant. That could lead to the closure of the Denison plant next year. Tyson says that if the plant is shuttered, Tyson will work with the 400 employees to explore other Tyson opportunities. Denison is about 60 miles from Dakota City.

COLERIDGE, Neb. (AP) - A 30-year-old man has been charged with felony arson and criminal mischief in relation to a series of suspicious fires in northeast Nebraska. The Dixon County Sheriff’s Office says Ahren Ferris, of Coleridge, has been accused of setting structures and hay bales on fire during the past 18 months. He was arrested Tuesday. An online court records site shows Ferris has been charged with three counts of arson and two counts of criminal mischief. He remained in the Dixon County Jail on $50,000 bail Thursday morning. Deputies say the investigation into about eight fires is ongoing and more charges could be filed.

NORFOLK– A 19-year-old Norfolk man who is suspected of breaking into a local business last summer has been arrested. Police Chief Bill Mizner says 19-year-old Michael Zoubek was arrested Tuesday in connection with a burglary at Zoubek Oil at 400 north 7th street on July fourth of last year. Mizner says blood evidence and latent fingerprints were recovered from the scene and sent to the Nebraska State Patrol lab for DNA testing and identification. The results developed Zoubek as a suspect. Zoubek is being held at the Madison County Jail.

NORFOLK– A 25-year-old Norfolk man is in jail facing burglary, possession of stolen property and drug charges following an incident early Wednesday morning. Norfolk Police say officers observed Jose Fitzgerald with a stalled vehicle at 1910 Center Drive around 3am Wednesday. A check of the vehicle confirmed that it was reported stolen from a Norfolk business on Monday. Fitzgerald was arrested for burglary, possession of stolen property and possession of methamphetamine. He is being held in the Madison County Jail.

NORFOLK– Today is the deadline for non-incumbents to file for public office. According to the latest information on the Madison County Clerk’s website, Norfolk’s Ward 4 has a new City Council candidate filing. Libby McKay officially filed her paperwork with the clerk’s office Wednesday. She will challenge current Ward 4 councilman Thad Murren who has filed for re-election. In other filings Wednesday, John Wyant of Newman Grove has filed as a challenger in the race for Newman Grove City Council and Thomas Zwingman has filed as a challenger in the race for Tilden City Council. Challengers have until the end of the day today to file.

NORFOLK– Northeast Nebraska have once again given their heartfelt donations in a record-setting way during US92’s two-day radiothon for St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The final tally from the two day radiothon was $262,093. This year’s total, is $41,000 more than 2011’s record breaking tally. Since St Jude Radiothons began on US92 in early 2001, Northeast Nebraska residents have donated $1.67 million dollars for continued research to help fight devastating childhood diseases, such as cancer. On behalf of US92, we would like to thank all of our great listeners and our fantastic sponsors for making the St Jude Radiothon such big success.

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