The Daily Bark

Iowa pharmacy board votes for medical marijuana

2010-02-17T16:05:00.004-06:00

The Iowa Board of Pharmacy has voted unanimously in support of medical marijuana. The board recommended the Iowa legislature remove marijuana from its Schedule I status to allow for its medical use. The 6-0 vote is considered a major victory by patient advocates in Iowa and nationwide, as few state pharmacy boards have ruled on the issue. Most of the 14 states that do allow for marijuana prescriptions have used voter referendums to change the law. The vote comes after the board held a series of hearings across the state, taking public comment on the benefits and harms of using marijuana.

Marijuana remains an illegal substance in Iowa. The legislature is not expected to take up the issue this year.

For more details on the hearing and how Iowa could be a game changer in the nation wide fight for medical marijuana, check out The Reader's previous coverage here.

Newshound 9/22/2009

2009-09-22T11:18:00.000-05:00

- Midlanders making money
- Couple leaves baby outside bar
- Neb. nude juice bar closes

More after the jump ...

Midlanders making money
The 2008 income numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau are in: Nebraska posted the seventh highest growth in real income and continued to top the list for the highest percentage of the population in the workforce, whether employed or looking for work. The states median household income of $49,693 ranked 29th nationally.

Omaha's young, creative class grew since 2000. The number of people age 25-34 with colleg degree has grown by about 8,400 people or 24 percent.

Other statistics released include:
- Around 12.7 percent of Nebraskans under 65 lack health insurance.
- The states foreing born population dropped by 1,500 people, to 97,815.

Couple leaves baby outside bar
A Malvern, Iowa couple were charged with child neglect for leaving their 4-month-old daughter inside their car while drinking in a west Omaha bar. The daughter of Bryan and Tina Vannoy was taken in protective custody. Investigators told KETV that employees at the Reel Martini Bar near 168th Street and West Dodge Road became suspicious when Tina brought in a baby bottle from the parking lot. Workers said they had no choice but to call the cops.

Neb. welfare roles rise
For the third month in a row, the number of Nebrasaka families collecting Aid to Dependent Children is rising. Todd Reckling, the state program manager, told the Associated Press that the rise is probably due to the economy as eligibility factors have not changed.

ADC is a federal and state program that provide up to $293 for families

Neb. nude juice bar closes
A year after its controversial opening, a juice bar in Cozad featuring nude dancers has closed. Owner Dan Robinson had been looking to open his club in western Nebraska, when he found a more ideal location in the south-central Nebraska town. Robinson told the Associated Press the business was going well, but left because he was concerned about the security of his lease.

Rage rampage
A man in North Omaha allegedly punched his ex-girlfriend, then stormed off and shot two men just a few blocks away. Police responded to a domestic violence call Sept. 21 at 2103 Binney. Ashisha Prater, 31, said her boyfriend punched her in the face, then left the residence looking for two males. Ten minutes later officers responded to shots fired a few blocks away at 1916 Lothrop. Police found Eric Smith, 37, and Byron Harrington, 34, lying on the sidewalk with gunshot wounds. The men told officers they were at 2103 Binney just before they were shot. Officers were unable to locate the suspect.

Newshound 9/26/1009

2009-09-16T10:56:00.002-05:00

- Budget balanced, taxes hiked
- Shop and vote?

More after the jump ...

Tax hike
Council passes mayor's budget, includes 10 percent property tax increase, kills satellite and entertainment taxes

Omaha homeowners will see an additional 10 percent increase in their property taxes next year. The city council voted 4-2 to increase the tax levy with council members Pete Festersen and Jean Stothert casting the dissenting votes.

The tax rate will raise 4.2 cents for every $100 of valuation; a homeowner whose house is valued at $100,000 will pay an additional $42 on their property taxes ― from $434 to $476.

Of the 4.2 cent increase, 2.4 cents will be used to pay off debt, primarily from the Qwest Center. The rest would be used to help close the city's estimated $10 million budget shortfall, including making up for the failed entertainment tax and satellite TV inspection fee. The council unanimously killed those proposals during the meeting. Councilman Chris Jerram, who sponsored the proposals, said he hoped to revisit the measures after further discussions with industry opponents.

Jerram noted that the city's share of the property tax is about 20 percent; Omaha Public School's takes about 59 percent and about 12 percent goes to Douglas County. The city's property tax rate has not increased since 2002 and had been 33 percent lower than in 1994.

The council ultimately passed the budget that it submitted to the Mayor the previous week, but failed to override his two vetoes. Suttle vetoed the council's 2.5 day voluntary furlough for all city employees and $1 million cut for purchasing new police cruisers. An attempt to override the vetoes failed on a 3-3 vote. Suttle recently held a press conference to highlight the aging cruiser fleet. He said new cruisers could save the city money in the long run, as new cruisers would require less maintenance. The council had already cut around $8 million from the budget.

The council was required to submit a balanced budget, with a property tax rate, to the state by Sept. 20.

After the vote to approve his budget, Mayor Jim Suttle addressed the council to thank them for their hard work and shook hands with each council member. Councilman Chuck Sigerson, who last month suffered from a heart attack and stroke, was not present at the meeting.

Shop and vote?
Hall County voters could be the first in Nebraska to cast ballots at grocery stores, libraries and other non-traditional locations. If all goes well, the test-run for “satellite voting” may be expanded statewide; partisan divides killed the proposal three years ago, according to the Omaha World-Herald.

Satellite voting allows voters to cast early ballots at convenient locations. Election officials on site can check a voters registration by computer and print the appropriate ballot. Iowa has allowed satellite voting for decades at places such as shopping malls and libraries.

Douglas County Elections Comissioner Dave Phipps told the World-Herald he opposed satellite voting because of the numerous ballot combinations offered in the county.

Benson student dies after football practice
Wilson Vili, 16, was sitting down to eat dinner in a park after football practice when he collapsed. The Benson High student was transported to the Nebraska Medical Center, where he died, according to OPS officials. School officials do not yet know the cause of death.

UNL frat sanctioned
The Sigma Chi house in Lincoln was ordered to remain vacant until 2013. The suspension stems from hazing charges against the University of Nebraska – Lincoln fraternity. The suspension could be lifted in 2011 if the fraternity and its alumni board can demonstrate good behavior.

Newshound 9/14/2009

2009-09-14T14:53:00.004-05:00

- Ex-employee sues Bellevue
- Two weekend murders
- Iowa native Norman Borlaug, father of the green revolution, dies

More after the jump ...

Ex-employee sues Bellevue
A lawsuit against the city of Bellevue is tying together allegations that the city offered no-bid contracts, fired the whistleblower, and lost a “dongle.” Michael Burns, a former information technology employee with Bellevue, is suing the city and City Administrator Gary Troutman for wrongfully firing him in March, according to the Omaha World-Herald.

While still employed with the city, in September 2008 Burns called Troutman to tell him he believed the city had violated local, state and federal open-bidding laws when it purchased a telephone system. Burns also discussed his concerns with City Attorney Pat Sullivan.

About two months after Burns made the complaints, a “dongle” went missing from his office. The instrument is used to record incoming calls to the police station. Burns was interviewed by police in December about the missing instrument; he denied having anything to do with its disappearance.

On Feb. 19 Burns received notice that he would be laid off due to budget cuts and a reorganization of city's computer administration department. The layoff took effect March 6.

Two weekend murders
Omaha police are investigating two separate homicides that occurred on Sept. 13. Luis Sandoval, 25, was stabbed at 659 South 26th Ave. around 9 p.m. and was taken by his brother to Creighton University Medical Center. He died while in surgery. Justin Jackson, 30, was arrested at his home and charged with criminal homicide and use of a weapon to commit a felony. Sandoval was a father of two.

Another homicide was reported at 5246 South 88th St. Officers located the body of Diante Stieneke, 22, who had suffered several gun shot wounds. Stieneke was found inside a car in her apartment parking lot. The investigation continues as a suspicious death as no arrests have been made.

Iowa native Norman Borlaug, father of the green revolution, dies
Through Norman Borlaug's actions, 250 million lives are estimated to have been saved from starvation. Borlaug, winner of the 1970 Nobel Peace Prize, died Saturday at his home in Texas from complications due to cancer. The Iowa native was 95.

In 1960 the world generated 692 million tons of grain. By 1992, thanks to Norman Borlaug's techniques and development in cross breeding strains of wheat from around the globe, the world now produces 1.9 billion tons using only one percent more land. Borlaug won the Nobel for his efforts in helping create agricultural self-sufficiency in many developing countries around the world.

Borlaug was one of the five people in history to win the Nobel, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, placing his name next to the likes of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Teresa. Borlaug was able to create man-made strains of wheat resistant to rust, a type of root eating fungus that wiped out entire crops. His efforts made Mexico self-sufficient in wheat production by 1956.

However, he was criticized by some environmental groups for introducing fertilizer to his strains of corn, rice and wheat which caused widespread pollution. Critics argued only natural sources should be used, such as manure. Other groups protested the sale of genetically modified crops, calling them 'frankenfood,' even though they are tested regularly by the FDA and USDA.

Man tries to run down officer
Officer Fred Hykel, 39, was responding to an assault call at Creighton University Medical Center just before 4 a.m. when he saw another disturbance. When Hykel went to help, the driver tried to run him over. Hykel fired shots at the car, hitting it at least once as the driver sped off. Police later found the car and the driver, Sergio Hernandez, 21, and took him into custody. Hernandez is charged with attempted felony assault of an officer and felony domestic violence. No injuries were sustained by the officer or the suspect.

Rally supports Suttle budget
Around 40 people rallied in Elmwood Park Sept. 12 to support city employees and Mayor Jim Suttle's budget. The rally was organized by the group Omaha Together, One Community, which draws much of its support from area churches. Demonstrators said they wanted the city council to accept Suttle's vetoes, which struck the council proposed furloughs for city employees and replaced it with a property tax increase. Several speakers decried proposals to balance the budget on the backs of city workers.

Smoking snuffed on Cass property
Cass County could become the first county in Nebraska to ban smoking on all county property. Officials say they expect the draft resolution to pass.

The resolution bans tobacco products on all county property, even outdoors, including fairgrouds and outside county buildings. It would apply to all tobacco products. Sarpy, like all Nebraska counties, bans smoking inside courthouses and law enforcement buildings. It also bans tobacco in county vehicles.

The state of Iowa went tobacco free on all public grounds in July 2008.

Satellite fee from space

2009-09-02T15:59:00.002-05:00

The primary task facing the Omaha City Council during last night's marathon budget session was to close an estimated $10 million shortfall in 2010. The final combination of cuts and “revenue enhancements” (“taxes” and “fee's” are so negative) were generally not surprising: increases to the property tax and building inspection fees on the revenue side; wage freezes, furloughs, layoffs and stalling equipment upgrades on the savings side.

But more than a fifth of the $10 million gap was closed through a proposed $50 fee on TV satellite inspections. The idea came from Councilman Chris Jerram, who recently failed to revive the Mayors controversial entertainment tax.

Yesterday a satellite inspection fee was barely on the radar of way's to close the city's budget gap, today its the centerpiece. The fee will receive two public hearings before the council votes on it. Here's what we know thus far:

Residents installing new dishes will be required to pay a $50 fee. A $50 registration fee for existing dishes will need to be paid by Sept. 1, 2010.
The ordinance applies to domestic satellite dish's, defined as “any equipment, fittings, cables, electrical connections and components, and structures” associated with TV, internet and audio transmissions.
Exempt are satellite dishes installed for commercial, educational or governmental purposes. (Read: no businesses are effected, only residential installations.)
Every dish will be inspected at the renewal of the registration.
The inspection shall verify that the structure of the dish complies with existing standards in the city code.

More details to come.

Newhound 9/2/2009

2009-09-02T11:49:00.002-05:00

- Budget battle royale
- Thermal imaging leads to pot house bust
- Couple shot in bed

More after the jump ...

Budget battle royale
A 2.4 cent property tax increase, 2.5 day furloughs for all city employees and a $50 satellite TV inspection fee were the highlights of the budget Omaha City Council members passed Sept. 1 after a grueling 9-hour debate. The budget does not include an entertainment tax, despite support from the mayor and at least two council members.

The budget was passed on a 4-2 vote. Council members Jean Stothert and Pete Festersen voted against the budget because it contained a property tax increase to cover debt from the Qwest Center. The language on the 1999 bond agreement, that voters approved, stated property taxes would not be used to pay-off the Qwest.

The budget was ultimately passed due to a vote switch by councilman Franklin Thompson. He had opposed a property tax increase on an earlier proposal, but switched after the council refused his request to delay the vote a few days. City Attorney Paul Kratz said if the council didn't pass a budget that night, the timing might have prevented it from overriding veto's from the mayor.

Major revenue increases in the budget include:
- $2 million from satellite inspection fee
- $900,000 in property tax increase
- $300,000 from building and inspection fee increases

Major savings in the budget include:
- $1.5 million cut from fire department, equipment and civilian positions
- $1.3 million saved in 2.5 day furloughs for all city employees, including police and fire
- $1 million taken from police cruisers
- $1 million taken from fund that pay's companies who create jobs

Mayor Jim Suttle will review the budget and present any line-item veto's by next week. The council can override veto's during its Sept. 15 meeting. The city must have a balanced budget for the state by Sept. 18.

Couple fired on in bed
Omaha Police are investigating the Sept. 2 shooting of an Omaha man inside his apartment near 108th and Maple . Anthony Muller, 21, told police he was laying in bed with his girlfriend when two suspects kicked in his door and fired a shot in their direction. Muller suffered a gunshot wound and was taken by private vehicle to Methodist Hospital. His injuries are not considered to be life threatening.

Teen shot in North-O
Kimani Houston, 18, told Omaha Police he was walking near 20th and Lake when he was shot. Houston said he didn't see who fired the shots. He was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center with injuries not considered to be life threatening.

Child porn creator arrested
A Lincoln man was arrested Sept. 1 for sexually abusing and photographing two girls for more than seven years. Investigators said Leslie Agnew, 44, began abusing one girl when she was 9. Agnew faces two-counts of third degree sexual assault.

Thermal imaging results in pot bust
A marijuana grow house was raided by Lincoln Police after an anonymous tip and thermal imaging evidence led to a search warrant. Thermal readings of the house showed abnormal heat and electricity radiating from the basement. More than 100 plants at various stages of growth were confiscated. No arrests were announced.

Newshound 8/31/2009

2009-08-31T11:18:00.001-05:00

- Omaha could shed red
- Sigerson suffers heart attack and stroke

More after the jump ...

Omaha could shed red
With the 2010 census a few months away, political junkies are already anticipating its impact on congressional re-districting in 2011. Each congressional district should have around 600,000 residents. It's estimated that Nebraska's District 2, which represents Douglas County and most of Sarpy County, is over that number by 58,000. Redistricting could mean pushing Republican dominated Sarpy County towns into District 1, based in Lincoln.

Sigerson suffers heart attack and stroke
City councilman Chuck Sigerson suffered from a heart attack and stroke Aug. 29. He was taken to Lakeside Hospital where he remains in “critical” recovery. Fellow council member Franklin Thompson told KETV he spoke with Sigerson just one day after the incident and that Sigerson was in a “jovial” mood.

Sigersons illness comes at a crucial time for the council as they prepare to vote on this years budget. Sigerson was first elected to the council in 2001. He has served as the chair to the Nebraska Republican party.

North student arrested with gun
A 19-year-old North High student was arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm on school grounds. He told Omaha Police he carried the weapon for protection in his neighborhood.

Morning drive-by injures one
A 24-year-old Omaha man was shot Aug. 31 near 42nd and Colby at around 9:00 a.m. Police said he was delivering items to a house when two men in a car drove by him and fired shots. The man was taken to Creighton University Medical Center in critical condition.

Bellevue left with posthumous bills
Bellevue city council members say they were thrown a curveball when several private firms billed the city $51,000 for work related to attracting the Omaha Royals. The Omaha World-Herald reported former Bellevue mayor Ed Babbit made the deals before he died July 8. Council members said there were no signed contracts and that they were never approached about the deal.

The bills include:

$11,295 to the Koley Jessen law firm.
$17,639.89 to the Croker Huck law firm.
$12,523.62 to the Leo A. Daly Co. for site planning, design and presentation.
$9,517.27 to Carroll for media and public relations work.

Newshound 8/28/2009

2009-08-28T13:03:00.001-05:00

- Learning community sets tax levy
- Douglas County's first H1N1 death

More after the jump ...

Learning community sets tax levy
The Douglas-Sarpy County Learning Community will be funded through a new tax levy, set at $5 for houses valued at $100,000. The tax will raise $2.3 million for learning centers, aimed at improving academic achievement. The Learning Community coordinating council set the levy at its Aug. 27 meeting after vigorous debate over how high to set the tax. Council member Ernie Chambers wanted to raise more than five times that amount. Moat council members rejected the proposal, saying they didn't want to raise taxes in a struggling economy, reported the Omaha World-Herald.

Able-1 will stay airborne
The Omaha Police helicopter Able 1 will stay airborne through the rest of the year. Mayor Jim Suttle had planned to ground the helicopter through 2009 to save the city $265,000. Suttle said interim chief Alex Hayes found additional savings within the department to keep Able-1 operational. The unit will reduce part-time hours and delay a scheduled engine overhaul.

South Omaha bank robbed
On Aug. 25, Omaha Police investigated a bank robbery call at the SAC Federal Credit Union at 4704 S. 24th St. Witnesses said two black males entered the bank, brandished firearms and took an undisclosed amount of money. The suspects then fled on foot.

The Nebraska Bankers Association is offering $25,000 to anyone with information leading to an arrest.

Douglas County's first H1N1 death
A 22-year-old Omaha woman died Aug. 26 from complications resulting from the H1N1 virus. The woman also suffered from a genetic muscular disorder, said Adi Pour, director of the Douglas County Heath Department. It is the first death attributed to the H1N1 virus in Douglas County.

Check fraudster jailed
The man behind one of the largest check fraud schemes in Nebraska history was sentenced to 11-19 years in prison. Keevan Dean, known as the “check fairy,” was part of a crime ring that stole nearly $1 billion from banks nationwide, according to the American Bankers Association. Dean denies he was the leader of the group.

Newshound 8/27/2009

2009-08-27T13:57:00.002-05:00

- 'Fun tax' is back

More after the jump ...

Jerram wants entertainment tax
Omaha city councilman Chris Jerram has revived a proposed tax on entertainment. Jerram said he wants the tax on the books incase the police and fire union's reject the two-week furloughs city council members proposed to save the city an estimated $7.8 million.

Last month Jerram joined all but one council member in rejecting Mayor Jim Suttles entertainment tax proposal. Jerram's latest proposal is nearly identical to Suttle's — it would tax movies, bar tabs, restaurants and concerts. Non-profit organizations, including the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority would be exempt. However, health clubs would also be exempt from Jerram's tax.

DHHS procedures change after boy's grisly death
In July, Omaha police confirmed Angela Manns was keeping the decomposing body of her 12-year-old son in the top floor of her home. Three month's earlier, Mann's reached out to a social worker at the Department of Health and Human Services. Through missed calls, Mann's apparently never made a connection with a social worker or met one in person.

Kerry Winterer, the new head of Nebraska HHS, said he wants to make sure that doesn't happen again. Under new procedures, when a caseworker receives a call where they feel children are in danger, it will get referred to the agency's crisis hotline. An personal visit will be made if follow-up calls after the initial contact are not returned.

Mann's is charged with first-degree murder.

Steve King wont run for Iowa gov.
U.S. Rep. Steve King of Council Bluffs announced he will not enter the already crowded Iowa governors race. King said he could better serve Iowan's in congress than at the state house.

Sen. McGill will seek re-election
State Sen. Amanda McGill announced she will seek re-election in her northeast Lincoln district. McGill, 29, has served in the Legislature since 2006. She chaired the children's crisis task force that convened in the wake of Nebraska's safe haven debacle.

Newshound 8/20/2009

2009-08-20T11:55:00.001-05:00

- Benetor disputes insurance lobby influence at town hall meeting
- Backdoor raises promised for Fire Union wage freeze
- Man killed near 29th and Maple

More after the jump ...

Nelson disputes insurance lobby influence at town hall meeting

There were no guns, major disruptions or Obama-Hitler caricatures reported at Sen. Ben Nelson's Aug. 20 town hall meeting to discuss health care reform. Nelson addressed some 400 people face-to-face inside a lecture hall and another 800 in overflow rooms inside the Durham Research Center.

Nelson fielded around a dozen questions from those in support and opposition to proposed health care reforms. One woman, who identified herself as a Mexican-American, said she opposed the health care bill extending coverage to illegal immigrants. Nelson said the bill would not cover illegal immigrants and vowed not to support a bill that did. A man said the debate represents a battle between the have's and the have-not's and urged Nelson to consider the poor in extending coverage. Another man asked Nelson if he would give-up his senate health care plan for a public option. Nelson responded “The reason I'll give it up so quickly is because I'll end up with a better plan.”

The room was packed with prominent Nebraskan's, such as Warren Buffett, as well as young professionals, union members and retirees. Lines to get in the building stretched around the block.

In his opening remarks Nelson assured attendees that he had read the current version of the health care bill. However he avoided diving into specific elements he liked or disliked about the proposal. He said he would not support a bill that added to the federal deficit or disrupted the private insurance market. He was lukewarm to a public option, calling it a good fallback for the few who could not afford a private plan.

Nelson has received the most career campaign contributions from the private insurance industry, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. During a press conference after the meeting, Nelson said the $1.2 million in donations has not influenced his decisions on health care reform.

Backdoor raises promised for Fire Union wage freeze
The president of the Omaha City Council told the Omaha World-Herald he was upset about 'back door' raises promised to Omaha firefighters in exchange for wage freezes in 2009 and 2010. Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle and fire union president Steve LeClair announced Aug. 19 that the union agreed to wage freezes to help the city close an estimated $12 million budget deficit. What they didn't say was that the plan includes up to 18 percent pay hikes over the following three years.

Firefighters were expecting a 3 percent raise in 2009 and 2010. That's around $3,100 pay cut over two years for the average lowest rank firefighter making a base pay of $51,189. The plan, which also includes police and civilian wage freezes, is expected to save the city $10 million in two years.

Man killed near 29th and Maple
Todd Prater, 40, was reportedly shot and killed Aug. 20 near 29th and Maple, according to Omaha Police. Prater was taken to Creighton University Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Police made no arrests.

Prominent Omahan robbed
Omaha Police were called to the gated community of Tomlinson Woods to investigate a home invasion and robbery. The home owner, Mike Simmonds, is a well-known business man and activist. He has recently sponsored ads that criticize the minimum staffing ordinance for the Omaha fire department. Previously he owned several Omaha Burger King's.

Lincoln Senator weds
Sen. Danielle Nantkes of Lincoln was married Aug. 15 to Thomas Conrad. The 32-year-old bride told the Omaha World-Herald she would change her last name to Conrad.

Newshound 8/19/2009

2009-08-19T13:00:00.003-05:00

- Council rejects entertainment tax, proposes furloughs
- Fire union agrees to wage freeze
- Omaha beltway?

More after the jump ...

Council rejects entertainment tax, proposes furloughs

The Omaha city council sided with restaurants, clubs and bars with their 6-1 vote against Mayor Jim Suttle's proposed entertainment tax. Ben Gray was the only council member to vote in favor of the tax. The tax would have generated an estimated $2 million annually for the city. Suttle proposed the tax to help close the $12 million budget shortfall the city faces next year.

Calling a tax increase a last resort, the next day five council members presented a plan to cut more than $11 million from next years budget. The bulk of the savings would come from two week furloughs for all city employees — including police and fire — which would create an estimated $7.6 million in savings. Annoucing the cuts were Pete Festersen, Garry Gernandt, Chuck Sigerson, Jean Stothert and Franklin Thompson.

Fire union agrees to wage freeze
The Omaha Fire Union has agreed to a two year wage freeze, but neither city or union officials said what the firefighters would get in return. The announcement from Mayor Jim Suttle and Union President Steve LeClair came as city and union officials work on a 5-year fire contract.

Firefighters were expecting a 3 percent raise in 2009 and 2010. That's around $3,100 pay cut over two years for the average lowest rank firefighter making a base pay of $51,189. The plan is expected to save the city $10 million in two years.

Teen shot in North-O
An 18-year-old boy walked into Creighton University Hospital Aug. 18 with an apparent gunshot wound. The victim told Omaha Police he was standing outside 4229 Miami St., when four suspects up the street shot him. His injuries are not considered to be life threatening. Police have not made any arrests.

OPS gets Bill Gates foundation grant
Omaha Public Schools are inline to receive $500 million a year for five years from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, according to the Omaha World-Herald. Over the past few months, OPS operations were thoroughly reviewed by foundation staff. OPS will reportedly use the money to recruit top-notch teachers.

Omaha beltway?
In an effort to reduce commutes times and ease traffic congestion, a plans for an Omaha beltway were presented to the Douglas County Board. The Metropolitan Area Planning Agency, along with the engineering firm HDR Inc. presented plans for a highway loop around the metro area. The study is still in its infancy, with no word on estimated costs, or where the beltway would travel. Beltways in Washington D.C. and Boston have been linked to creating more urban sprawl and increasing commute times.

Think outside the box…

2009-08-19T09:39:00.005-05:00

Omahans concerned with a proposed entertainment tax can rest easy—their city leaders have killed the idea.

Bryan popped down to the Omaha City Council meeting yesterday and confirmed that the city council voted down Mayor Jim Suttle’s proposed 2 percent entertainment tax with a 6-1 vote.

He also confirmed Councilman Ben Gray was the only council member who supported the tax, and urged the city to find additional sources of revenue.

Now folks in the metro-area won’t have to pay any additional cash to see G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, a Creighton basketball game or even a dinner at Spaghetti Works.

But that means the city still faces a budget crisis.

Councilman Ben Gray is right: Omaha must find a new revenue source. Omaha should look at how other cities grab extra cash.

The National League of Cities released a “city practice brief” earlier this year that listed several “creative examples of alternative sources of revenue.”

For instance Newport Beach, California—with a population of over 70,000—set in place a program where citizens can pay bills online.

The Newport Beach Identification System (NBID) allows residents to access their account in one location, and make payments on line. Citizens can simultaneously access information about parking citations, business licenses, municipal services, and alarm fees by using one ID number. Once in the account, individuals may check boxes to choose which bills to pay, and the money is distributed to the proper accounts. In addition to the online service, all customer account records and service cancellations can be processes over the phone. Because customer accounts are interconnected, the city can monitor payments and withhold services until a balance is paid. The NBID caused a significant increase in the city's revenue, with the recovery of over $625,000 in outstanding receivables and over $500,000 in other fees.

Mayor Suttle will be successful in getting the city out of debt with a revenue-generating program that provides a service to the citizen, rather than giving the citizen a burden.

Bohemian rhapsody endangered

2009-08-18T12:41:00.005-05:00

The Omaha World-Herald reported yesterday that some of the locals don’t like the Old Market’s current direction.

Two lingerie and adult novelty stores have opened within two blocks and two months of each other in the Old Market, sparking debate about the area's identity:

Is it still a mix of eclectic businesses, or has it evolved entirely into a family-focused tourist attraction?

One neighboring business owner worries that his restaurant will become associated with a sex shop and complains that kids eating on the restaurant's outdoor patio have to look at tacky lingerie on a cart pulled out to the sidewalk.

This goes back to first-amendment arguments of what is considered obscene and what is protected under free speech. I won’t drag that into this post, but I will defend these lingerie and novelty shops as part of the local culture.

The Old Market is Omaha’s Greenwich Village. It doesn’t have the same gravitas as New York City’s famous neighborhood—but it’s the city’s cultural hotspot.

And Greenwich Village has had some sex shops. For instance the shop “Condomania,” which was a condom store in the village until it closed, was located in the famous neighborhood along with “Village Comics”—a comic book store. (info from http://www.nycgv.com)

Kratz says it's OK for Mayor to raise property tax

2009-08-14T15:18:00.005-05:00

WOWT-TV reported today that City Attorney Paul Kratz said Mayor Jim Suttle can raise taxes.

Read their story here.

No taxation without representation

2009-08-14T12:21:00.002-05:00

In a bizarre move to help the city get out of debt, Mayor Jim Suttle might implement a property tax bump even if the Omaha City Council votes against the proposal.

The Omaha World-Herald reported that City Finance Director Pam Spaccarotella said the City Council cannot change the mayor’s tax change:

In a memo obtained by The World-Herald, City Finance Director Pam Spaccarotella said the council has no authority under the City Charter to change the mayor's tax hike.

Spaccarotella said the charter bars the council from altering a tax hike meant to pay off city debts.

She wrote the memo in response to a request from council members and after consulting with the Law Department.

The City Charter states that the council “shall not reduce appropriations for debt service.

The World-Herald said City Attorney Paul Kratz should give a formal opinion on the matter today.

Spaccarotella’s starting salary was $180,000 and then reduced to $140,000.

Newhound 8/14/2009

2009-08-14T11:45:00.003-05:00

- Nebraska's unsustainable prison system
- Wanted: New Omaha senator
- Leavenworth prostitution sweep

More after the jump ...

Nebraska's unsustainable prisons
Nebraska's incarceration rate is unsustainable. That was sentiment of many justice system experts who testified Aug. 13 at a hearing for the Legislature's Sentencing and Recidivism Task Force. The task force is studying ways to lower the states incarceration rate. Many of those who testified advocated increased use of rehabilitation programs for drug use and those with mental illnesses.

On average, prisons in the state are around 140 percent over design capacity. According to statistics obtained by The Reader the prison population compared to the states total population has been on a steady incline since at least 1993. In 2008, at least 25 people per 100,000 in Nebraska were incarcerated.

Omaha Senator wanted
Gov. Dave Heineman is now accepting applications for those interested in becoming Northwest Omaha's representative in the State Legislature. Sen. Mike Friend announced his resignation to direct the new state Office of Violence Prevention. Candidates must live withing District 10, bounded roughly by Blondo Street, Interstate 680 and 72nd Street. Friends term ends in January 2011.

Leavenworth prostitution sweep
A prostitution sweep around 24th and Leavenworth resulted in the arrest of two prostitutes and 13 people soliciting prostitution. Officers arrested 20 people total on various charges.

Bluffs man shot in back
A 32-year-old Council Bluffs man was shot in the back near 24th Ave. and S. 6th St. Council Bluffs Police said the man was walking home from the Kum & Go at 2024 Fifth Ave when he was shot, according to the Omaha World-Herald. The man sustained pellet wounds to his head, neck and arms. He was taken to Jennie Edmundson Hospital with injuries not considered to be life threatening.

Shooting near Miller Park
Omaha Police were sent to 25th and Kansas early Aug. 14 to investigate reports that a man had been shot. The gunman reportedly fled the scene on a red bicycle. The victim was transported to a hospital.

Phony $20's hit Fremont
Sevral counterfeit $20 bills have been found in Fremont. Fremont Police are warning small businesses to be on the lookout for the fake cash. Convicted counterfeiter's face state and federal charges.

Newshound 8/13/2009

2009-08-13T14:56:00.002-05:00

- Senator resigns to take post he created
- Suttle names acting police chief
- Omaha postmaster dies

More after the jump ...

Senator resigns to take post he created
State Sen. Mike Friend of Omaha announced he will leave the legislature Aug. 17 to head a new office that was created under his bill. Friend will direct the State Office of Violence Prevention, an agency that was included in his anti-crime bill passed this year. Friend has never worked in law enforcement. His previous jobs have included writing and editing for newspapers, magazines and private businesses. Last month the Nebraska Crime Commission announced $350,000 in grants were available for community crime prevention programs.

Suttle names acting police chief
Mayor Jim Suttle announced Aug. 12 that Deputy Chief Alex Hayes will take over as interim chief of the Omaha Police Department as the search for a new chief begins. Chief Eric Buske announced last month that he will leave the department after 25 years to head the police department in Bryan, Texas.

Buffett blesses new stadium
The Oracle of Omaha joined elected officials, baseball players and fans in a Sarpy County cornfield to celebrate the new home of the Omaha Royals. The event marked the culmination of 18-months of negotiations between the Royals and Sarpy County. Buffett assured he crowd two baseball stadiums in Omaha would succeed, reported the Omaha World-Herald. Buffett is part-owner of the Royals.

Omaha postmaster dies
Omaha's Postmaster, EvaJon Sperling, died Aug. 13. Sperling became postmaster in July 1995.

Mountain lion sighted in Elkhorn
The Nebraska Humane Society is warning residents to be on the look-out for a mountain lion in the Elkhorn area. The siting has not been confirmed.

Gang-worker busted in crack deal
A former Omaha gang-member, turned gang-interventionist, will go to prison for selling crack near his Boy's and Girl's Club office. Sunn Perkins, 29, was sentenced to 3-6 years in prison for selling drugs to an informant on three occasions.

Newshound 8/11/2009

2009-08-11T11:25:00.004-05:00

- Omaha offered $3 million for Elkhorn
- Sister fires near-fatal shot on request
- Counterfeit DVD's draw prison term

More after the jump ...

Omaha offered $3 million for Elkhorn
Who's flexing the muscle now? As the city of Omaha searches for more ways to close a $12 million budget shortfall, an Elkhorn man made an unusual offer: a check for $3 million if Omaha “de-annexes” Elkhorn. Mayor Jim Suttle's spokesperson Ron Gerard said the city is not for sale.

Patrick Gottsch is the founder and president of RFD-TV, a rural television network that broadcasts over several cable outlets, DirectTV and Dish Network.

In his Aug. 10 letter to the mayor, Gottsch said he would pay the money if Omaha returned to the pre-annexation borders. The offer underscores Omaha's desperate financial situation and the bitterness of some Elkhorn residents who long fought annexation until Omaha won out in 2008.

Omaha faces a $12 million budget shortfall, largely due to drops in sales taxes and a souring economy.

Sister fires near-fatal shot on request
Sean Brennan handed his sister a gun and told her to shoot him. He said the gun was loaded with blanks. But when Elizabeth Brannan pulled the trigger, a live round hit Sean in the forehead. Sean is on life support at the Nebraska Medical Center. Elizabeth is charged with reckless use of a firearm.

Counterfeit DVD's draw prison term
A man arrested for possessing some 4,000 illegally copied DVD's was sentenced to eight months in prison and three months supervised release. Michael Colvin, 33, must forfeit all of the videos and dubbing equipment.

Last May, Colvin’s car was pulled over by police near 36th and Curtis. Police found 3,133 illegally copied DVD's inside the car. Policed uncovered another 1,267 bootleg DVD's inside Colvin's home.

Benson memorial cross stolen
Five years ago Matt Schmill's parents erected a roadside cross in Benson to honor their son's tragic death and warn others not to drink and drive. But now that memorial cross is missing. In 2004 Schmill was killed in a hit and run collision while walking near the corner of 61st and Maple. It was his 23rd birthday. Matt's father Bob Schmill told KETV if the cross was not returned he would ask a nearby business to put a new memorial on their property.

Police cruiser crash
An Omaha Police cruiser with its lights and siren on was involved in a three vehicle crash near 84th and West Center Road. Officer Adam Moore was responding to a hostage situation call Aug. 10. when his cruiser struck a 2004 Dodge Dakota. The force of the collision caused the Dodge to strike a 1994 Ford Explorer. Moore suffered head injuries and was taken to Creighton University Medical Center with injuries not considered to be life threatening. Dodge driver Edgar Hagerty, 76, suffered head and arm injuries. The driver of the Ford was uninjured.

Construction accident sends man to hospital
A man was hospitalized after falling 40 feet at a construction site near 67th and Pine. The man fell from a lift and was unconscious after the fall.

Newshound 8/10/2009

2009-08-10T11:06:00.002-05:00

- Waterloo hostage scene ends peacefully
- Arrest made in King Kong shooting
- Creighton student short of 'Millionaire'

More after the jump ...

Waterloo hostage scene ends peacefully
A man in Waterloo, Neb. surrendered to police after he held his former mother-in-law hostage inside a house. Police went to the house on a domestic disturbance call, but weren't able to contact anyone inside, reported the Omaha World-Herald.
When police entered the home, the man threatened to harm the woman if the police didn't leave.

Several area police agencies were called in to help, including the Nebraska State Patrol hostage negotiators and Omaha police.

Donahue told the Omaha World-Herald the woman escaped out of a second story window when the man left her alone to search for a handgun. After several hours of negotiating, the man surrendered to police. He was taken to a hospital then arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment, making terroristic threats, violating a protection order and felony property destruction.

Waterloo Police Chief Tim Donahue said the man had taken methamphetamine.

Arrest made in King Kong shooting
Marlon Pearson, 24, was arrested for the August 7 shooting of a man in a King Kong parking lot. The 39-year-old victim said he was at Cheaters bar when the man confronted him. He said he was followed to the King Kong restaurant at 44th and Dodge where he was shot.

Corn lobby
More than 5,000 farmers sent postcards to the Environmental Protection Agency voicing support for a measure that would allow gas stations to sell 15 percent corn ethanol fuel, according the Nebraska Corn Board. Most midlands gas stations sell a fuel blend that contains 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline.

Creighton student short of 'Millionaire'
A 19-year-old Creighton University student won $25,000 from the game show “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” Rob Placek's winnings would just about cover the cost of one years tuition at Creighton for a full-time student without financial aid. Placek taped the show July 30 in New York City, but had to keep quite on the outcome until it aired.

Woman dies in ATV accident
A 21-year-old woman died July 9 after an all terrain vehicle accident near Valparaiso. Brenda Strizek of Valparaiso was pronounced dead at BryanLGH Medical Center West in Lincoln. The driver of the vehicle, Myles J. Virgil, 24, fled the scene. He's expected to be charged with vehicular homicide, according to the Saunders County Sheriff's department.

Transition week

2009-08-10T10:16:00.001-05:00

We’re going to be a bit slower on the blog this week due to some re-adjustments.

Bryan and I still plan to post the daily newshound, but the daily columns will be slower than usual.

Don’t fret! We’ll start hitting hard again with the daily columns next Monday.

In the mean time, enjoy this video—

Newshound: 8/7/2009

2009-08-07T13:15:00.004-05:00

Headlines:

- Facing the Music
- Killers plea killed by high court
- Best Western victimized

More after the jump...

Facing the Music
Mayor Jim Suttle opened a file today he was hoping would just collect dust. Suttle announced he'll implement the layoff plans, drafted by city department heads, that will result in 130 civilian employees losing their jobs.. Cutting 45 full-time and 85 part-time positions will create between $750,000 and $1 million in savings, said city Finance Director Pam Spaccarotella.

The decision came as projections for the 2010 budget shortfall jumped to $12 million. Suttle said he did approach the Police or Fire Department about laying off sworn employees.

In addition to layoffs, the Mayor said he will again delay the incoming police recruiting class from November to January. He will also ground OPD's helicopter operation for the rest of the year, saving the city around $265,000.

Suttle repeatedly said the city needs to “get out of denial and face the music” on the dismal state of the city's finances.

During today's press conference, Suttle also made clear his proposed 2 percent entertainment tax would not effect non-profit organizations. Since he announced the new tax, there was concern that non-profits, such as the Joslyn Museum, would need to pay the tax, even during fundraising campaigns. Suttle said it was never his intention to burden non-profits with the tax.

Killers plea killed by high court
The Nebraska Supreme Court denied an appeal from a three-time killer, upholding his conviction and death sentence. David Dunster, 55, argued that inadequate representation led him to plead guilty to the 1997 killing of his cell mate at the Nebraska State Penitentiary. Dunster has been imprisoned since he was 17, when he killed a mother of eight in Oregon.

County Judge reprimanded by Supreme Court
The Nebraska Supreme Court handed down a harsher penalty to a Douglas County judge than what was initially recommended. The high court suspended Judge Jeffery Marcuzzzo from office for 120 days, up from the 90-day suspension recommended by the Commission on Judicial Qualifications.

Marcuzzo was disciplined for three incidents involving misconduct. In the first incident, he pulled strings for a nephew facing a protection order. Marcuzzo also told a prosecutor that a defendant was under charged, and left a profanity laced message on another prosecutors voice mail.

Another convenience store robbery
Omaha police said the Speedee Mart near S 72nd and Q was robbed by an armed man late Wednesday night. Ralston police officers were at the scene coincidentally—but did not see anyone fleeing the store. The suspect ran off with cash, headed eastbound on Q.

Best Western victimized
Omaha police say the Best Western near N. 30th and Chicago was robbed by four men late Aug. 5. Witnesses said three men forced their way into the lobby by prying the doors open. One suspect was armed. They took cash and payroll checks from the cash register. They were last seen southbound on 30 th in a stolen 1987 Mercury Topaz. Police are looking for four suspects.

Man dies in motorcycle accident
Sarpy County Sheriff’s Department said Robert Etzel died after hitting the side of an SUV with his motorcycle. A medical helicopter took Etzel to Creighton University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the SUV was charged with Failure to Yield the Right of Way, and may face more charges once authorities complete their investigation.

Déjà vu all over again…

2009-08-07T11:43:00.002-05:00

This morning I woke up, popped over to the Omaha World-Herald’s Web site and saw that the fight for four fire fighters manning rigs isn’t over. City Councilman Franklin Thompson will introduce a bill that’s similar to Councilman Ben Gray’s which also called for a city ordinance defining how many firefighters would man a fire truck.

Thompson cited the city’s worsening financial picture, as well as the mayor’s
proposed tax increases and the potential for city layoffs, as reasons for taking
a second look at the repeal so soon after Gray’s effort failed.

“We must
at least have the opportunity to examine efficiencies in this department, as has
been done in every other department,” he said.

That bill was voted down 4-3 last week, according to the OWH.

I just got off the phone with Buster Brown, Omaha’s City Clerk, and he said the only thing different in this bill when compared to Gray’s is striking a requirement that had police reporting certain arrests and convictions.

In July 2007, the Matrix Consulting Group found “exceptionally high” levels of staffing at OFD; it recommended reducing most of the four-man rigs to three, with an estimated savings of $5.14 million per year. Other studies have shown the staffing reduction would cause a drop in service quality.

So is it productive for a city council to introduce and vote on the same legislation over and over again? This is the only thing the city council sees as practical?

(NOTE: Bryan Cohen contributed the graph on Matrix Consulting Group’s findings)

Newshound: 8/6/2009

2009-08-06T14:34:00.007-05:00

Headlines:

- Budget showdown
- Hate mongers file flag-law appeal
- Nebraska smoking ban challenged

More after the jump...

Budget showdown
Two weeks after Mayor Jim Suttle presented his budget to city council, council members are proposing to axe the mayor's major tax provisions. Democratic Councilman Pete Festersen said he plans to kill Suttle's proposed property tax increase because the city can still find more savings.

Ted Turner to speak in Fremont
Media mogul and philanthropist Ted Turner will speak at Midlands Lutheran College's convocation ceremony later this month. Turner is the founder of CNN and

Turner is the largest private land owner in the United States with more than 2 million acres to his name. He also owns around 425,200 acres in Nebraska, making him the largest private property owner in the state.

Hate mongers file flag-law appeal
Known for protesting military funerals with signs like “God Hates Fags” and “Thank God For IED's,” members of the Westboro Baptist Church are now protesting in Nebraska court. Shirley Phelps-Roper, 51, filed another appeal in Sarpy County Court questioning the constitutionality of Nebraska's flag desecration statute. Her attorney, Bassel El-Kasaby, told the Omaha World-Herald he hopes to bypass the state court of appeals and take the case to the Nebraska Supreme Court.

Phelps-Roper and other members of the Kansas-based church were charged with desecrating a flag near a military funeral in Bellevue. She was also charged with negligent child abuse.

Nebraska smoking ban challenged
A Lancaster County Court judge heard arguments challenging Nebraska's smoking ban, but made no immediate ruling. District Court Judge Jodi Nelson decided she would hear the case brought by Big John's Billiards. The Omaha pool hall argues the ban is arbitrary and violates the state constitution.

Bank robber arrested
Michael Hymes was arrested in Council Bluffs on Aug. 5 for allegedly robbing the First National Bank near S 24th and Oak. Hymes, 29, will be charged in Federal court.

World-Herald misses the big picture on Phelps-Roper

2009-08-06T09:42:00.007-05:00

If you check out The Omaha World-Herald's article on Shirley Phelps-Roper, which details how Phelps-Roper is appealing a decision that convicted her of desecrating the American flag in Nebraska, you’ll see that it’s a well-written, unbiased story. But the picture the newspaper paired it with shows Phelps-Roper like a cult member—with the wild, glazed-over eyes of a loon.

What the World-Herald didn't do, however, was say just how far on the fringe this group is.

I decided to YouTube Phelps-Roper to better illustration how off the wall they might be, and came up with this:

I’m usually an unabashed first-amendment absolutist. The marketplace of ideas needs opinions of every sort, no matter the message. But even this causes me pause.

(NOTE: Amended original post at 10:13 a.m.)

Newshound: 8/5/2009

2009-08-05T12:08:00.004-05:00

Headlines:

- UNMC doctors head to Afghanistan
- OSHA after South-O plant
- 18th and LAIRD shooting

Details after the jump.

The big-boned in blue
Two Bellevue Police officers responded to a May 5 break-in at Scooter's Coffee Shop near 25th and Capehart Road ― one a bit slower than the other. Surveillance video obtained by KETV shows one officer easily duck under broken glass to enter the store. Then it shows a larger Officer Matt Jarvis struggle for more than a minute to perform the same task. He eventually drops his gun and rolls through the opening.

Chief John Stacy told KETV that Jarvis acted appropriately. Jarvis reportedly passed a physical fitness test that requires officers to kneel down, fire a shot, and stand-up.

Only one Bellevue Police Officer failed that test. Officer Chris Parent was fired in 2007 due to his physical condition when he failed the state mandated gun test. But Parent thought he was capable of performing his duties and took the department to court. After two years Parent won his case and was recently re-instated as a Bellevue Police Officer.

UNMC docs head to Afghanistan
Several University of Nebraska Medical Center doctors will son travel to Afghanistan to help improve medical training. The medical deployment marks a growing number of partnerships the school and Nebraska National Guard are developing with the Afghanistan.

OSHA after South-O plant
A South Omaha meatpacking plant faces a $16,000 fine after a forklift accident resulted in the death of a 17-year-old boy. On May 8 Miguel Herrera-Soltero toppled a forklift at the Progressive Protein plant at 5102 S. 26th St. Herrera-Soltero was fatally crushed by the vehicle. An investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration revealed three serious safety violations, OSHA officials said. Among the violations was a lack of proper training and supervision for truck operators.

“This worker's family will be forever changed; there is no excuse for this accident,” said Charles Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. “It is imperative that employers eliminate hazards, provide a safe working environment for employees and prevent accidents from occurring.”

Man shot near N 18th and Laird
Eric Lofton, 19, was shot near N 18 th and Laird late Aug. 4. Witnesses told Omaha police a vehicle pulled up to a residence and shot guns at three people sitting in front of 3908 N 18th. While Vance McGee, 18, escaped without injury, Dominique Palmer, 20, broke his arm after while going for cover. Lofton was taken to Nebraska Medical Center for treatment.

Arrests at the HoJo
Omaha police arrested robbery suspect Seth Horstman Aug. 4 at the Howard Johnson near 72nd and Grover. Officers got a tip that Horstman was at the hotel, and they found Christina Perkumas in his room. Perkumas, 25, was arrested for two outstanding warrants issued by the Douglas County Sherriff’s Office and stolen forged checks police found in her purse. Horstman, 24, showed up at the hotel around 6 p.m., and ran from police. After a short foot chase, he was booked for a slew of charges—including robbery, receiving stolen items and accessory to a felony.

Mental Mob

2009-08-05T09:46:00.004-05:00

I watched The Rachel Maddow Show last night, and she had this segment on right-winged mobs—instructed by lobbying group Conservatives for Patient’s Rights—who lambast Democratic congress members during town hall meetings.

In her report, Maddow said CPR had a list of where its followers can go to yell at their congressman or congresswoman on the evils of health care reform.

This morning I wondered if there were any Nebraska events that could turn into health-care hate rallies, so I popped over to their site. Sure enough, CPR lists eleven meetings with Rep. Adrian Smith—who represents Nebraska’s 3rd District.

Nebraska is a state one wouldn’t expect to find a health care reform crusader. In fact, Rep. Smith, judging from a quote on his Web site, seems to be on CPR’s side:

The truth of the matter is the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates the Majority party's health care plan could cost in the neighborhood of $1.5 trillion over 10 years, and to pay for it they want to cut Medicare by $500 billion. This is unacceptable.

We stand at an important crossroads when it comes to health care. Most would agree our current health care system requires reform to reduce costs. But I don't think the solution lies in having the government takeover your health care.

So why is CPR pointing folks to Rep. Smith town hall meetings? Answer: He digs the status quo and the cash insurance companies give his campaign.

The Federal Election Committee lists several insurance providers as contributing to Smith’s 2010 campaign, including the political action committees for Mutual of Omaha and AFLAC. And over the course of his career he’s received at least $79,000 from the Insurance industry and at least $71,000 from the health professionals industry, according to opensecrets.org.

It looks like the mobs CPR is sending these meetings will be met with a friendly face.

Sen. Ben Nelson will support Sonia Sotomayor

2009-08-03T14:26:00.001-05:00

The headline says it all!

You can read the Lincoln Journal-Star article here.

What a bunch of Tenderfeet

2009-08-03T10:03:00.004-05:00

Four people, including one minor, were shot in Omaha this weekend. While it doesn’t look like anyone was killed from their injuries, it emphasized the fact that it’s getting pretty scary out there.

One incident involved a group of juveniles near Florence Blvd. and Pinkney. According to Omaha police, the kids were shooting guns in an alleyway, and a 17-year-old was shot.

Witnesses told officers that a group of juveniles were in the alley behind the
address, shooting a firearm. While one of the juveniles was handling the
firearm, it discharged, striking the victim. All of the juveniles, except the
victim, fled from the scene prior to officers arriving. The victim was
uncooperative with officers. The victim's injuries do not appear to be
life-threatening at this time.

Teenagers shooting guns in back-alleys isn't a great idea.

I understand teen-age interest in firearms. I used to fire shotguns when I was a Boy Scout in Birmingham, Ala. At summer camp I would shoot skeet and watch the disk dissolve into a cloud

Nowadays “skeet” has a very different meaning—but that’s for another blog post.

I’m not saying all today’s teens should up and join the Boy Scouts, but I am suggesting that the city and state do something more to either keep guns out of juvenile hands or start a program where these kids could get training on handling a firearm.

But with the city’s $12 million 2009 budget shortfall, the estimated $11 million 2010 shortfall, city pools closing early and libraries having their hours cut—we'll be seeing red for awhile.

He’s no Robert Moses, but who is?

2009-07-31T10:58:00.004-05:00

A little over a year ago I prepared to take the Columbia University Journalism School entrance exam. It’s among the best graduate j-schools in the country, and I figured it wouldn’t hurt to apply.

I wanted to prepare as best I could for a Columbia education, so I called a professor there for reading suggestions. He said I should read Robert Caro’s “The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York.”

Robert Moses was New York City’s city planner who designed the ~~current~~ modern New York City. While I only read between a quarter and a half of the text’s 1344 pages, I took away the fact that Moses was a very effective city planner.

But apparently Omaha’s own city planner, or rather “planning director,” doesn’t have Moses’ gravitas.

The Omaha World-Herald reported today Rick Cunningham, Mayor Suttle’s appointee for planning director, may not meet the city charter’s requirements for the position:

The city charter specifies that the planning director must have at least five years of experience in a “city planning post.”

Suttle's incoming planning director, Rick Cunningham, has a resume that reflects extensive experience in the private sector and as a government consultant focusing in the areas of engineering and architecture. But he has not worked as a city planning employee for a municipality.

The Mayor's Office says Cunningham, who worked with Suttle at consulting firm HDR Inc., is qualified for the position.

Cunningham’s experience is impressive, though it may not meet charter requirements.

But this seems odd from a man who on two occasions called for the most experienced person to get the city out of financial trouble. As we mentioned yesterday, he said the city was having a heart attack and we need a heart surgeon.

Public discussion—round 2

2009-07-30T10:29:00.004-05:00

Mayor Suttle and other city officials appeared last night at Benson High School to discuss the proposed 2010 city budget.

And again—more speed dating.

WOWT reported it was organized similarly to Tuesday’s meeting, but went more smoothly:

“Organizers say they learned from that and changed how some of it worked. They used a bigger space this time and it was a little easier to hear.”

One issue that keeps surfacing is the big salary increases he’s giving some new appointees.

When confronted with it, Suttle has latched onto a not so subtle sound bite.

The quote—I’ll paraphrase here—the city’s having a heart attack, and we need a heart surgeon.

WOWT quoted him saying it last night: “We need professional people. We're having a heart attack. I need a surgeon and not a carpenter.”

The Omaha World-Herald reported he said it Tuesday night: “Your city is having a heart attack,” Suttle said, “and I need a heart surgeon.”

Repeating the same line over and over probably won't convince people that it’s a wise move. An explanation might go along way. Even if that explanation was that Werner Enterprises, the former employer of finance director Pam Spaccarotella, donated $1,000 to your campaign.

Speed-dating, Suttle style

2009-07-29T09:28:00.003-05:00

I’ve always been tempted to sign up for a speed-dating event. A group of women would sit around a room at different tables and I would visit each one briefly to try to court them.

Apparently Mayor Jim Suttle harbored a similar wish, because that’s exactly how he organized last night’s 2010 city budget public hearing.

The Omaha World-Herald reported Suttle and other public officials broke the attendees into groups and then visited each one:

“The crowd was split into groups of about 20 people around large tables. Suttle and representatives of several city departments, including police, fire, public works and parks, individually visited each table for 10 minutes, answering questions about the city's finances.”

The mayor and his staff may have decided consciously that the speed-dating format would be best because it’s obvious Omaha’s citizens need to be wooed.

One quote from the World-Herald may sum-up what people in Omaha think:

“People are very angry,” Dorothy Higgins said. “There are a lot of hard feelings. I don't think there has been much thought given to taxpayers.”

Word of warning, Mr. Mayor, from a guy who’s been single for a while: you won’t get a second date with “a lot of hard feelings.”

We were wrong!

2009-07-28T15:00:00.005-05:00

The best thing about a blog is its instentaniousness.

We have to admit that we were wrong in one of our posts yesterday, when we reported:

But the training of new police recruits will be put on hold for another year. The city currently has 820 sworn officers. The next class, stalled until May, will have 24 recruits – well short of the 40 budgeted for training this year.

That isn't correct.

The next police recruit class of 42 will be this November. The one afer that, to get 24 more officers, is in May.

Suttle's dilemma similar to RoboCop 2 Mayor's

2009-07-28T09:45:00.006-05:00

I may have jumped the gun when I suggested Mayor Jim Suttle was trying to be Batman—another nerdy movie reference may have been much more fitting:

Detroit’s mayor from the second RoboCop movie.

As you’ll recall, that character was trying to save Detroit from bankruptcy by borrowing cash from the evil corporation OCP. The city couldn’t pony on their debt, which led to the company taking over the city.

The current situation in city hall seems similar. We are indebted to the Qwest Center for about $216 million dollars, and Suttle hopes to close the city's budget shortfalls with a 2 percent entertainment tax. That didn't sit well with the elite entertainers at the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority.

The Omaha World-Herald reported today that MECA—which runs the Qwest Center—offered a $5.6 million advance for the Qwest's remaining naming rights that cover the next eight years.

“The offer: an advance of the convention center and arena's remaining naming rights payments through 2017, using MECA's reserve funds, if the mayor agreed to forgo his proposed entertainment tax. Each year, Qwest Communications Inc. sends MECA a payment for naming the complex after the telecommunications company.”

This looks an awful lot like a bribe to me. “Hey, mister, drop the tax idea and we’ll give you $5.6 million dollars.”

Unlike RoboCop 2’s mayor, who was thoroughly corrupt, in co-hoots with an organized drug cartel and probably would have taken the bribe, Suttle rejected the offer.

The entertainment tax will bring in almost double MECA’s $5.6 million, estimated at over $10 million, which would go much further to close that $11 million shortfall.

(NOTE: I corrected post title from "Suttle like RoboCop 2's Mayor" to "Suttle's dilemma similar to RoboCop 2 Mayor's" after a comment pointed out it was confusing. Thanks for the catch!)

What's next in the Manns trial?

2009-07-27T11:50:00.003-05:00

I spoke w/ two attorneys on opposite ends of the Angela Manns murder case today, and neither produced any new information.

Gary Olson, who is representing Manns with Tom Riley, gave me a flat “no comment.”

The Aug. 12 court appearance will be Manns’ preliminary hearing—which Don Kleine, Douglas County attorney, described as a safeguard against a prosecutor making a bogus case and keeping someone in jail.

Kleine said it would be “quite some time” before this case went to trial, and added this is an ongoing investigation.

Quick, Robin, to the Suttle-Mobile!

2009-07-27T09:07:00.005-05:00

Is it just me, or is this town is looking more and more like Gotham City pre-Batman?

Four people were shot this weekend, including one 17-year-old. That's down from the 9 people shot last weekend, or 12 if you include that Friday.

To be fair, the powers that be are taking action. For instance police arrested Tyrone Starks on July 24 for the attempted murder of Carrdale Hannah.

And Mayor Jim Suttle told the City Council last Tuesday that he is including funding for forty-four new police cruisers and the public safety auditor.

But the training of new police recruits will be put on hold for another year. The city currently has 820 sworn officers. The next class, stalled until May, will have 24 recruits – well short of the 40 budgeted for training this year.

So is Mayor Suttle trying to be Omaha’s caped crusader?

(Note: We were wrong! The next police recruit class of 42 will be this November. The one afer that, to get 24 more officers, is in May.)

Illegal alien gets 18 months for fire arm possession

2009-07-24T14:50:00.003-05:00

Ricardo Jimenez-Ortega will spend 18 months in prison for having three pistols and two rifles in his Wakefield, Neb. trailer home.

Jimenez-Ortega, 25, must also spend three years in supervised release and pay a $100 special assessment. He was arrested last March, and is not in the United States legally--according to a press release.

New OPD info

2009-07-24T09:04:00.003-05:00

Here's what the original press release said:
"Officers searched the area for the suspect and were able to locate her. The suspect was transported to police headquarters for questioning. The investigation is continuing."

Here's what last night's press release said:
"Officers searched the area for the suspect, but were unable to locate her. This investigation is continuing."

Here's an e-mail statement from Officer Michael Pecha in OPD's press office:
"I found an email from a Sergeant that was sent on the 19th that
corrected the original email and said that the overnight should have
indicated that officers were "unable" to locate the suspect. I don't
know where all the additional info about detectives interviewing her
came from."

Police press release raises questions

2009-07-24T08:35:00.005-05:00

Omaha police are looking for LaMesha Wright in connection to last week's stabbing of Derrico Hebron.

What's weird about this is one tiny detail--the initial press release said Police took a suspect in for questioning that night, but that the investigation is ongoing.

They never named a suspect, so we don't know if Wright was the person they took in.

However, the press release issued last night said police were unable to locate a suspect.

So which is it? Did they find a suspect and take her in for questioning, as they said in the initial press release? Or were they unable to locate a suspect?

Perhaps they took in a suspect who was not Wright--but if that's the case, why was the press release amended?

I just spoke with Officer Michael Pecha over at OPD about it, who said they may have brought her in for questioning but did not make an arrest.

He couldn't explain the difference in the press release, as another PR officer issued them and is out of the office today.

Two Council Bluffs men arrested near N 49 th and Chicago

2009-07-23T10:04:00.004-05:00

Just got off the phone with Officer Jacob Bettin at the Omaha Police Department, who told us two men were arrested for a burglary near N. 49th and Chicago.

Police got a "burglary in progress" radio call for 4817 Chicago St.

They arrested Timothy Love, 40, and Ricky Stephens, 48, for one count of burglary, one count of possession of burglary tools, obstructing a peace officer, and destruction of property.

Bettin said both men are from Council Bluffs.

Thanks to @beckstordinary for the tip!

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Kwik Shop robbery

2009-07-23T08:39:00.004-05:00

Omaha police were called to the Kwik Shop near S. 49th and L early Thursday after it was robbed.

The store clerk told officers two men came in demanding money. They took the cash drawer and fled.

Police couldn't find the suspects.

This is the third Kwik Shop robbery in two days.

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CORRECTION: Holmes shooting was last March

2009-07-23T08:29:00.003-05:00

I jumped the gun last night and reported Gary Holmes was shot that evening. This was inaccurate.

He was, in fact, shot March 11, 2009.

The Omaha Police did, however, arrest Akeem Jones, 18, yesterday afternoon.

I apologize for the misreporting.

Omaha's body count rises

2009-07-22T21:52:00.003-05:00

Gary Holmes is the latest homicide victim in Omaha.

Omaha police said they investigated a shooting near N. 42nd and Ames Ave, where they found two men injured. Holmes and Rodney Smith, both 23, were taken to Creighton University Medical Center.

Holmes was pronounced dead at the hospital, and Smith remains in critical condition.

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Officers arrested Akeem Jones, 18, for first degree murder, first degree attempted murder and other related charges.

Omaha archbishop installed today

2009-07-22T12:00:00.008-05:00

Archbishop George Lucas will be installed at St. Cecilia's Cathedral today at 2p.

Yesterday we called Omaha's archdiocese to see if we could get a camera inside for coverage, but they declined.

They are letting in Alabama-based EWTN, a Catholic cable channel. You can watch their live feed here.

NYT misses the real story on Kris Kobach

2009-07-22T10:29:00.004-05:00

A recent New York Times piece on anti-illegal immigrant attorney Kris Kobach missed the real story on the man behind a myth. Kobach has made a career out of offering relatively cheap, expert legal advise to people looking to rid their city's of undocumented immigrants. But Kobach's false promises have led several city's into a a financial hole, as they face millions of dollars in court costs and lawsuits.

Check out The Reader's coverage of Kobach and how Fremont, Neb. is on it's way to becoming another Kobach casualty.

30th and Bedford victim identified

2009-07-22T09:58:00.003-05:00

Omaha police said the man shot and killed near 30th and Bedford was 39-year-old Christopher Dickson.

They released Dickson's name after notifying his next of kin.

Two Kwik Shop robberies

2009-07-22T09:23:00.002-05:00

Omaha police said two Kwik Shops were robbed early this morning.

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Man shot and killed near 30th and Bedford

2009-07-22T07:08:00.003-05:00

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Omaha police said they found a man shot near 30th and Bedford beside a vehicle that had flipped over late Tuesday night.

The victim was taken to Nebraska Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Nebraska DMV to resume licensing

2009-07-21T17:19:00.002-05:00

The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles said this afternoon that it will resume licensing drivers.

Driver licensing services will resume tomorrow morning, Wednesday, July 22 in the following cities: Omaha, Lincoln, Papillion, Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney, Lexington, North Platte, and Gering. Sites will open at their normally scheduled times.

The department stopped licensing after a power surge Monday.

The key word is "entertainment" in Mayor Suttle's proposed budget

2009-07-21T14:28:00.011-05:00

Mayor Jim Suttle proposed the 2010 budget today to the Omaha City Council.

Mayor Suttle's proposed budget "represents less than a 1% increase in total operating expenditures from 2009," according to a written statement.

Some of the more interesting items in the proposal have to do with entertainment and recreation. For instance the the mayor will "seek the closing of Westwood golf course was a first step towards reviewing all golf course operations and possible privatization."

He is proposing a 2 percent entertainment tax to help the city overcome its General Fudn shortfall.

To help meet the city's debt on the Qwest Center, the mayor is proposing a 2.4 cent property tax increase to help meet the city's debt on the Qwest Center.

Spending priorities include full funding for a police recruit class. The city's keno funds will help pay for 44 new police cruisers and help fund Omaha's libraries.

Lincoln stand-off ends with suicide

2009-07-21T13:08:00.003-05:00

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The Lincoln Police said this afternoon it was called to Blue Flame Road after receiving a call saying someone broke into a home.

It turned out to be the caller's estranged husband, armed with a handgun. He barricaded himself in the bedroom, and police called in their SWAT team.

The man took the woman hostage, but eventually released her. After firing one round at police, he shot himself in the head.

He was pronounced dead at 6:41a after being brought to Bryan LGH West.

Bucky's gas station robbed

2009-07-21T07:49:00.002-05:00

Omaha police say the Bucky's Gas Station near S. 40th and Dodge was robbed at gunpoint early this morning. Officers couldn't find the suspect.

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Man arrested for June 28 shooting

2009-07-20T17:42:00.003-05:00

Omaha police arrested Jesus Martinez, 21, for allegedly shooting Ivan Vilchis on June 28 near S. 33rd and Q.

Police found Vilchis, 23, outside the La Esmarelda restaurant 3 weeks ago. A rescue squad took him to Creighton University Medical Center for treatment.

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La Vista police arrest another in online sex sting

2009-07-20T17:28:00.006-05:00

La Vista police arrested Jeremy Fitzgerald for sexual assault by electronic communication device this afternoon. Police allege Fitzgerald, 21, initiated a conversation with someone he believed was a 15-year-old girl and asked for sex.

The 15-year-old girl was actually a La Vista police detective.

Police arrested Fitzgerald at a "pre-arranged meeting place," according to a press release.

Blog-view: Leavenworth Street upset with Sen. Ben Nelson and Mayor Jim Suttle

2009-07-20T13:34:00.002-05:00

Conservative blog Leavenworth Street is not happy with Mayor Suttle, saying he decided to up the finance director's sallary by $80,000 and close a public pool one week early to save $75,000.

The blog also points says Sen. Ben Nelson put cows on his turkey hunting retreat to claim it as a farm and get a tax cut.

Read the post here.

Blog-view: Suttle Watch calls foul on bloody weekend

2009-07-20T13:05:00.002-05:00

The anti-Mayor Jim Suttle "Suttle Watch" blog has a new post comparing Suttle to South Park character Officer Bar Brady after not commenting on this past violent weekend.

Read the post here.

Blog-view: New Nebraska Network calls out Gov. Dave Heineman's fight for "anti-gay discrimination"

2009-07-20T12:56:00.003-05:00

New Nebraska Network's Kyle Michaelis wrote a post contending that Gov. Dave Heineman's administration has been "leading the charge behind the scenes FOR this right to discriminate - in both mental health and in social work."

Check out New Nebraska Network's latest blog post here.

Shooting near 22nd and Jones

2009-07-20T08:47:00.002-05:00

Omaha police say 21-year-old Carrdale Hannah was shot near 22nd and Jones. A rescue squad took him to Nebraska Medical Center with serious injuries, though he is expected to survive.

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Nebraska DMV halts licensing drivers

2009-07-20T07:47:00.004-05:00

The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles issued a statement early this morning saying a power surge disrupted them as they tried to implement the new driver's licensing system.

The DMV will not license drivers until they fix the problem.

Saturday shooting victims identified

2009-07-19T13:53:00.004-05:00

The Omaha Police released the identities of the five survivors of Saturday's shooting at 18th and Miami.

Kevin Charles, 38, Ladderel Richards, 32, Rodney ~~Gray~~ Sheppard, 49, Thurston McCaskill, 49, and a 13-year-old minor were shot in what police say looks like a drive-by shooting.

More weekend shootings

2009-07-19T11:46:00.003-05:00

Omaha police kept busy this weekend with shootings, cuttings and a bank heist. Not only was there the 18th and Miami shooting that claimed Vincent Page's life and left five others wounded, but there were two more Omaha shootings Saturday night and Sunday morning.

Saturday night saw Amos Simpson, 20, shot near 37th and Redick Ave. Simpson told police he was a passenger in a vehicle that was shot at by another vehicle. Police could not find any suspects.

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A 16-year-old told police he was shot near 24th and Curtis Ave. early Sunday morning. He told officers he heard gunshots while walking, and fled. He then noticed he suffered a gunshot wound.

A private vehicle took him to Nebraska Medical Center, where he was released with a non-life threatening wound.

Bellevue woman drives car into neighbor's home

2009-07-19T10:55:00.004-05:00

The Sarpy County Sheriff's office said a 53-year-old woman crashed her vehicle into a home at 2706 Michaela Drive as she drove out of the driveway on July 18. She and a passenger were taken to Midlands Hospital.

The home was "severly damaged," according to a press release.

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Shooting victim photo

2009-07-18T17:47:00.004-05:00

Douglas County Corrections released a photo of Vincent Page, 22, who was killed in the early Saturday shooting at 18th and Miami.

Lincoln Dems host a picnic

2009-07-18T14:58:00.007-05:00

The Lincoln Journal-Star reported Saturday that The Lancaster County Democrats will hold their annual picnic July 25 at Antelope Park.

But one thing mentioned in the article raises an eyebrow:

All Democrats in Lancaster County are invited, said Becki Gaston, chair of the Lancaster County Democratic Party.

Does that mean they're going to ID folks when they get to the potluck?">

Shooting victim dies

2009-07-18T12:52:00.006-05:00

Omaha police released a statement at 12:43p reporting Vincent Page, 22, has died.

Page was shot near 18th and Miami early Saturday morning.

Shooting at 18th and Miami

2009-07-18T11:03:00.002-05:00

Omaha police's homicide unit is investigating an early morning shooting at 18th and Miami.

Five adults and one minor were shot when police arrived at the scene.

A rescue squad took the victims to the Nebraska Medical Center. One of the adults suffered life-threatening wounds, while the outher victims' injuries are not considered life-threatening.

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