Lincoln News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

A doctoral student at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is using AI to predict when insect-borne viruses could leap to humans—potentially stopping outbreaks before they start. His generative models simulate future virus strains up to a year ahead, giving public health officials a vital early warning. Awarded a $25,000 Fast Grant for bold, unconventional research, he’s now building tools like high-performance computing and a user-friendly dashboard to turn his vision into reality. Motivated by his experience with limited healthcare in Ethiopia, Fentaw aims to use AI not just for prediction, but to reshape global health preparedness—one viral threat a...

Shayla Rautenberg, a six-foot-four volleyball phenom from Milford, is already rewriting the script for elite high school athletes—committed to Nebraska, ranked No. 3 nationally for 2028, and a state champ in basketball too. With her Hall of Fame mom paving the way, Shayla’s not just chasing greatness; she’s leading by example, turning pressure into purpose and proving that dominance isn’t limited to one sport. This is just the start of something huge.

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A wild storm hit Lincoln Wednesday—hail, rain, and dramatic shelf clouds swept through neighborhoods like Waverly, but the chaos was hyper-local: Catherine saw only heavy rain before discovering major flooding elsewhere in town, while Sherri got a thunderstorm warning at work but walked out into sunshine. Nebraska’s weather is famously unpredictable, reminding us to stay alert—even if your block seems calm, a downpour could be just around the corner.

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A sudden, violent thunderstorm dumped heavy rain on Lincoln, triggering flash floods that shut down roads and trapped cars—especially near the low-lying railway bridge underpass at 48th Street and Cornhusker Highway. Drivers caught off guard faced stressful, inconvenient situations as water surged unexpectedly. Officials are now assessing damage and planning to prevent future disasters in known flood zones. Stay alert to weather warnings and road closures to avoid being caught in the next storm.

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Hundreds of Nebraskans, including lawmakers and families, are sounding the alarm over a new Medicaid assessment tool that’s allegedly under-serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since its July rollout, the interRAI system has led to drastic cuts in support for vulnerable people like Doug Straub — whose needs haven’t changed but whose care level was slashed, forcing him into less intensive settings. Advocates are demanding Governor Pillen halt funding reductions until an independent review is complete, backed by a petition nearing 4,000 signatures. While the state has hired a $420,000 third-party firm to evaluate the tool, families say it’s too li...

A wild storm hit Lincoln Wednesday, dumping torrential rain that caused major flooding, trapped cars, and shut down roads. Emergency crews scrambled to clear debris and restore safety as the city grappled with the sudden chaos. It’s a stark reminder of nature’s power—and why being weather-ready matters. Officials are still assessing damage and pushing to get things back to normal.

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Democratic Party leaders hit Nebraska’s key battleground district to boost nominee Denise Powell, pushing economic relief like childcare aid and tax credits—while her opponent counters with high favorability polls and accuses her of misleading voters. As campaigns clash over messaging and local ties, non-profits’ influence looms large, making this race a national bellwether with stakes far beyond the ballot box.

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Heavy rain slammed Lincoln yesterday, flooding streets and forcing rescues—four people pulled from submerged vehicles on 84th Street and an underpass near Cornhusker Highway. The road between Havelock and Cornhusker was shut down as emergency crews diverted traffic. Authorities are hammering home the warning: “Turn around, don’t drown.” Don’t risk driving through floodwaters—no matter how shallow. This is a deadly game with rising water, especially in low-lying areas. Roads are being cleared, and officials urge everyone to stay alert and avoid flooded streets.

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In a major political shakeup, a Nebraska judge has greenlit two new parties—the Nebraska Working People Party and Nebraskans for Functional Government—after a legal battle over ballot access. The Working People Party, which took its case to court over delays from the governor, hailed the ruling as a “legal miracle” for grassroots voices seeking representation. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party cleared technical hurdles, setting a precedent that could open doors for more third-party contenders. With the America First Party also challenging authority, Nebraska’s political landscape is poised for a dramatic shift toward greater diversity and competition.

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Iran’s economy is in turmoil as soaring inflation crushes families, while political tensions spike after Trump’s controversial map claim over Hormuz—prompting Iran to threaten to “correct his delusion.” Amid the chaos, a company linked to the infamous flock camera scandal is rolling out changes to restore trust. It’s a whirlwind of economic pain, geopolitical posturing, and corporate reckoning—all in one day.

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Governor Jim Pillen’s July memo ordering 5% budget cuts across state agencies sparks heated debate as lawmakers grapple with legality, fiscal reality, and political fallout—some calling it unconstitutional, others seeing it as a necessary step to close next year’s $208 million deficit.

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Storms are rolling through for the next couple of days with temps staying near average—just a little cooler, nothing extreme. Some areas already soaked over two inches in one day, which packs a punch. Thursday brings scattered storms with hail and damaging winds as the main threats—marginal to slight risk. Same story Friday: another severe weather chance with hail and wind concerns. Keep your eyes on the sky—hit-or-miss, but rough weather’s possible.

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Families are sounding the alarm over a new disability assessment tool that’s wrongly downgrading care needs, risking critical support cuts. One father watched his son’s level drop from high to intermediate care — a shift that could mean fewer caregivers and more strain on families already stretched thin. A mother of a 38-year-old needing round-the-clock help says her life revolves around him, and fears institutionalization if his needs aren’t properly recognized. Advocates argue the interRAI tool isn’t capturing real, complex needs — and warn against funding cuts while changes are being reviewed. These families, now rallying at the Capitol...

Nebraska’s controversial assessment tool for people with developmental disabilities is under fire as families report it’s wrongly denying critical care funding. In response, the state has hired a $420K outside firm to audit the system — but advocates demand faster action, including halting funding cuts and appeals. While officials pledge to act on findings, critics are raising red flags over a former state official now working for the review team, though the state insists no conflicts will affect the process.

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Omaha Public Schools shocked the community when they discovered shock gloves—called G.L.O.V.E.s—were being used in schools without their knowledge, sparking a heated debate between district leaders and local police. While OPS asked SROs to stop carrying them, Bellevue Police fiercely defended the devices, calling them a safe, effective de-escalation tool with years of proven use. Chief Ken Clary even claimed he’s been personally targeted during training with no lasting harm. Critics argue transparency is lacking, while police insist the gloves are vital for managing volatile situations, especially with youth. Despite the clash...

A Lincoln group is pushing bold charter changes—new election dates, expanded voting rights for residents outside city limits, and council term limits—aiming to get them on the November ballot after submitting a second round of petition signatures. But their push comes amid controversy: six people, some from out of state, were arrested for allegedly submitting fraudulent signatures in the first batch. Authorities are still investigating other petitions too, including one about girls’ fairness and another on online sports betting. Despite the scandal, the group says public support remains strong, fueling their push for greater local accountability. Meanwhile, law en...

Nebraska’s weather is turning stormy again after a brief calm — thick fog tonight, especially east, with visibility dropping; clear by Thursday morning. Then comes a hot, humid day with mid-80s temps, followed by a cold front bringing scattered storms, strongest in the northeast with damaging winds and hail possible — flash flooding likely where it rained Wednesday. Friday’s the real threat: unstable air, storms erupting in western Nebraska and moving east overnight, with large hail and damaging winds on the table. The unsettled pattern sticks around through the weekend and into next week, with evening/night showers and temp...

A 66-year-old man, Michael Danhauer, received a sentence of one and a half years probation, two days in jail, and 120 hours of community service after pleading no contest to motor vehicle homicide for a deadly Christmas Eve crash in Aurora. Driving the wrong way on Highway 30, his GMC Sierra collided head-on with an armored car, killing 65-year-old passenger Robert Runion Jr., who left behind a wife and three children. Both Danhauer and the armored car’s driver survived with non-life-threatening injuries; alcohol wasn’t involved, and all occupants were wearing seatbelts. The judge’s ruling balances accountability with the tragic...

HHS stunned the teen pregnancy prevention community by slashing 53 grants—nearly $70 million—in June, claiming programs promoted sex. Frustrated advocates took them to court, arguing the cuts defy congressional intent. A D.C. judge sided with plaintiffs, halting HHS’s new grant rules and calling their tactics a recycled failure. But here’s the twist: while the judge blocked the new direction, he can’t yet force HHS to return the cut funds—those decisions are pending. For now, HHS’s pivot toward fertility tracking and “reproductive goals counseling” is on hold, and they may appeal.

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A 23-year-old Airman from Offutt AFB just got 10 years in federal prison after using ChatGPT to plan a bank heist—complete with AI advice on evading cops and even getting a plea deal. He stole $10K from a Bellevue bank, left a note caught on camera, then splurged at Walgreens. Investigators found hidden cash in his shoes, and despite claiming he didn’t rob the bank, they recovered all the money. Now he’ll serve 10 years, plus 6 years of supervised release—a chilling case of how tech can fuel real-world crime.

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Nebraska’s new Examiner editor-in-chief, a seasoned local journalism veteran with 10 years leading western Nebraska papers, is poised to revitalize statewide reporting by empowering local outlets with free, in-depth state coverage. Splitting her time between Lincoln and North Platte, she’s already launched 40+ stories tackling housing, education, and petition fraud — all while championing diverse voices across the state. With 35 years of experience, she knows how vital this work is for informed communities. Support her mission by subscribing or donating — every contribution helps keep Nebraska’s truth alive.

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Lincoln High’s Railsplitters are turning heads this season under new coach Tom Nickolite, who’s laser-focused on mastering the fundamentals—especially tackling—with first-year players stepping up impressively. With standout Bryce Christiansen leading the charge and a steady climb in wins from 2018 to 2019, the team’s defense is tightening up, particularly on third downs. Key defenders like Cole Orear, Hunter Reimers, Ben Luedke, and Tyrell Winfrey are showing major growth, fueling a momentum that could make this season their most successful yet.

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A suspect in a string of vehicle thefts across Nebraska and Kansas was caught driving one of the stolen cars near Colby, Kansas, after fleeing from officers. The Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office credits Kansas Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for the swift takedown, with no further incident reported. The suspect’s identity remains undisclosed as the investigation continues.

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Omaha police are investigating a serious emergency in North Omaha, while Creighton University welcomes students to its new Magis Hall dorm. Senator Jon Ossoff delivered a fiery speech accusing Trump of questionable travel with an aide. Flock cameras are rolling out updates after recent scandals, and the Beatrice Humane Society raised smiles—and funds—at their annual Doggie Dip at Big Blue Water Park.

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Storm floods streets, trapping cars and forcing rescues as Lincoln Fire and Rescue battles flash flooding with over a hundred emergency calls — water up to six feet deep swept vehicles away, but no serious injuries reported, a chilling reminder that even a few feet of moving water can be deadly.

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Nebraska’s new teal silicone wristband initiative is a game-changer for new moms—worn for six weeks postpartum, it instantly alerts first responders and medical staff that the wearer is in a critical recovery phase, potentially facing life-threatening physical or mental health crises. Designed to catch signs like extreme fatigue, severe headaches, or dangerously high blood pressure, the band bridges the gap when mothers can’t recognize their own symptoms. Often, it’s loved ones who spot warning signs—withdrawal, skipped showers, constant bedrest—that may signal perinatal mood disorders, treatable conditions far more serious than “baby blues.” Help is available: th...

Hastings Public Schools just got a fresh face on its board: Nikki Pfeil, a physician assistant and mom of four, was appointed to fill a vacant seat — and she’s asking supporters to redirect their November votes to other candidates so she can focus on serving the full term. With the most votes among non-incumbents in the spring primary, her appointment was a clear nod to voter preference. Pfeil brings real-world insight into student wellness, from nutrition to extracurriculars, and is eager to collaborate with her fellow board members to ensure every student thrives.

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Floodwaters surged through Lincoln, Nebraska, trapping vehicles and forcing emergency rescues—don’t underestimate flash floods, even shallow water can be deadly.

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Lincoln Police Seek 16-Year-Old Pickering | Lincoln News

On Christmas Eve, a man driving the wrong way on Highway 234 caused a fatal crash that killed 32-year-old Chad Furlong, a devoted husband and longtime employee of Duncan Aviation. Pleaded no contest to vehicular homicide and leaving the scene, he received 18 months probation — a sentence that underscores the deadly cost of reckless choices and leaves families grappling with irreversible loss.

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A massive petition fraud investigation in Nebraska has exploded beyond its initial scope, now scrutinizing all four statewide citizen initiatives—including online sports betting and gender-based school sports rules—and touching nearly every petition drive this election cycle. With over 750,000 signatures under review, officials are still tallying exact numbers as the process is painstakingly slow. Five out-of-state circulators have already been arrested on felony charges for falsifying oaths, with one suspect still at large. The Secretary of State has referred allegations from a former senator’s gubernatorial campaign to the Attorney General after thousands of his signatures were invalidated in one...

The Surface Transportation Board just extended the deadline for the massive Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger to Q2 2027, giving railroads and industry groups more time to review the deal’s far-reaching impacts. After lifting a May pause, the board agreed to a 395-day evidence window and extra filing time post-hearings, citing concerns over creating America’s first transcontinental railroad. Key deadlines include September 4 for notice filings, December 3 for federal agency comments, and February 16 for responses. Both railroads must resubmit omitted data, and public comment is expected after March 29.

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After 12 years of transforming an empty armory into a revered tribute to Nebraska’s military heroes, Jerry Meyer is stepping down as executive director of the Nebraska National Guard Museum — a role he embraced with passion, resilience, and deep personal history. A 32-year veteran himself, Meyer took on the challenge while recovering from Afghanistan injuries, turning his love for history into a legacy project. His wife Mary was the unsung force behind the scenes, rallying volunteers and donors, while community leaders like Clark Kolterman praised his fundraising and dedication. Now facing physical limits from back surgeries, Meyer reflects on the...

Lincoln Fire and Rescue just earned the elite Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Office — a prestigious honor held by only about 30% of fire departments nationwide. This top score reflects their unmatched readiness, from powerful water pressure and rapid response times to meticulously maintained gear. Years of dedicated effort by firefighters and city leaders have paid off, turning consistent excellence into official recognition. The win brings real benefits: potential lower insurance rates for residents and businesses, plus stronger protection for everyone’s homes and lives. It’s not just a badge of honor — it’s proof that Lincoln’s community is...

Grand Island Senior High’s Academies celebrate two local heroes: LiveWell Physical Therapy’s Dr. Matt Hilligas, who earned Community Partner of the Year for mentoring students and hiring grads, and Summit Real Estate’s Eric & Jennie Wright, Business Partner of the Year and fellow GISH alumni, who’ve mentored young entrepreneurs and brought former students into their team. Both are passionate about preparing teens for real-world careers—whether in healthcare or business—and school leaders honored them in person, proving these partnerships are transforming student futures and strengthening Grand Island’s workforce.

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Omaha students are back in classrooms energized for a fresh start, as schools kick off the year with a focus on welcome and learning. At Benson High, a freshman academy helps new students ease into high school with guidance from teachers like Elisabeth Haskell-Voris, who’s using creative tools like a “phone hotel” to minimize distractions and boost focus. Superintendent Matt Ray joined the district’s hopeful outlook, emphasizing supportive spaces and student success as the year unfolds.

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Gage County is considering an 18-month pause on new data centers, with a public hearing set for September 2nd at Beatrice High School—locals are rallying to voice concerns over infrastructure, environment, and long-term impact as officials scramble to draft smart, community-focused regulations.

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Nebraska’s Governor Jim Pillen has launched a new Data Center Task Force to strategically position the state as a top destination for data center investment, leveraging its water, land, and infrastructure to fuel economic growth. Set to meet in December, this diverse group—including local leaders, economic development experts, and financial partners like Wells Fargo—aims to identify opportunities, build workforce readiness, and ensure Nebraska is proactive in attracting major tech investments before competitors do.

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Step into history at Nebraska’s Butler County Museum, once a bustling 1915 Burlington train depot and now a charming time capsule of local heritage. Built to replace an older station, it was the last railroad stop in David City until its closure in 1969. Transformed by the historical society in 1973, the museum boasts air conditioning, accessible entrances, and a parking lot — all while preserving original artifacts like vintage benches and military gear honoring local veterans. It’s a nostalgic tribute to railroads that shaped small towns — perfect for history buffs and anyone craving a slice of Americana.

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Jay Moore, a former Husker defensive end and Elkhorn native, is stepping into the booth as Nebraska football’s new color analyst — replacing Damon Benning — bringing insider insight, 38 tackles for loss, and Big 12 honors to your radio this season.

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