03/31/21 • Nebraska vaccine data • Nationwide case trends
Meet the Candidates of Omaha’s District 2
These stories are in-depth profiles of three of the six candidates running for the Omaha City Council’s District 2 seat. For coverage of other races check out The Reader’s 2021 city election hub.
Reed Moore’s Daily Rundown
Happy National Tater Day
Today’s appetizing news: Omaha pledges $93 million to UNMC’s Project NExT, pharmacies offer free opioid overdose antidote, and Nebraska lawmakers debate a medical marijuana bill.
Around Omaha
- The City of Omaha commits to spending $93 million over the next decade on UNMC’s Project NExT, an expansion of the medical campus that will enhance the nation’s ability to respond to hazards — including natural disasters, environmental accidents and highly contagious diseases.
- A vaccine clinic for people with developmental disabilities is planned for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday at CHI Health Center. There are 1,000 appointments available, and caregivers are eligible for the vaccine as well.
- The Douglas County Board approves a study of a potential Thomas Creek dam, which would take farmers’ land to reduce urban flooding.
- Residents living near 178th and Pacific streets are trying to stop construction of an apartment complex, saying rush-hour traffic and a nearby elementary school are reasons to halt the project.
- Omaha’s minority residents are getting COVID-19 vaccines at lower rates than white residents, but Douglas County is opening clinics to close the gap.
- Omaha pharmacies are partnering with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to offer free naloxone nasal spray kits to people at risk of opioid overdoses.
Around Nebraska
- The Nebraska Legislature advances a bill to remove restrictions on firework sales. Proponents say the bill will give enthusiasts more choices locally without having to go to neighboring states.
- The Nebraska Community Blood Bank says it needs blood donations of all types, adding it has only a one- to two-day supply of each type.
- Nebraska lawmakers debate a bill that would legalize medical marijuana, but opponents are likely to block the legislation with a filibuster. Supporters of the bill are planning a petition drive to put the issue on the ballot in 2022.
Reed Moore’s Things to Do in Omaha on 4/20
Visit the Always Dope Fontenelle Forest
- 1111 Bellevue Blvd N
- $11 for adults, $10 for seniors,
- $8 for children 2-17, and free for members.
There’s perhaps no better way to celebrate a day of greenery than by spending it knee-deep in a forest. Fontenelle Forest is one of the greenest places you can venture in the Omaha area. It is one of Nebraska’s five national natural landmarks.
No matter how humanity progresses, the best conversations and ideas can be had while strolling through the woods. Even during the New Roaring Twenties, hiking remains beloved by many, and it could enhance your 4/20 experience and add an invaluable dimension to it called exercise.
To maximize social-distancing efforts, please renew or register your membership online. Additionally, Omaha Public Library cardholders can get free passes to Fontenelle – so sign up if you haven’t already.
The Daily Funny
