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UF Study Group- by Ben Bohall

Despite the preconceived notions of what the UNO UFO Study Group might have to offer, the clubs founders are making every attempt to shoot down the stereotypes. “We’re not those guys wearing aluminum antennae caps in our parents’ basements listening to radio static.” Says Club Vice President John Powers. “We’re just a bunch of guys having a good time.”

The club is bracing itself for its first live remote radio session as an extension of their radio show, “Spooky Action at a Distance” every Friday night from 5 to 7 pm on 90.7 HD 2. The remote will take place on top of the Durham Science Center observation deck on the University of Nebraska-Omaha campus at a date yet to be announced. The hope is to reel in Science students at UNO that might be interested in exploring the outer fringes of the field.

“I think that if people came out and saw what is was all about, they would probably be surprised,” Says Powers.

Moving past the challenges of preparing for a live remote, an initial dry-run was chanced on the evening September 10th. Although there were initial equipment problems, the event yielded a large turnout. Perhaps more importantly, new members were able to acclimate and enjoy a night under the stars.

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Synthetic Marijuana in Nebraska- by Jackie Skarda

A synthetic form of marijuana is one of the newest ways to get high. The drug, called K2, is legal to use in Nebraska and is popping up everywhere. K2 is a blend of herbs and spices sprayed with chemicals meant to mimic the effects of marijuana. Paul Carter, Executive Director of Pride Omaha, says little is monitored in Nebraska on the herbal incense market.

Some K2 users have experienced increased agitation, elevated blood pressure and heart rate, paranoia, hallucinations, vomiting and psychotic episodes. But proponents of the drug say that alcohol and tobacco have negative health effects as well and are legal to use.

One herbal incense provider, who wishes to remain anonymous, says the government should change its focus.

Some states have already banned K2 and have seen a new brand of drug called K3 emerge. Carter says Senator Beau McCoy will introduce legislation in January to ban K2 and its counterparts. Until then, he says his organization will continue to educate the public about K2.

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Wheel Tax Law- by Melissa Ballarin

With a projected deficit of $20 million for 2011, the new budget for the city of Omaha is of utmost importance. In a time of economic woes, an extra $50 a year can make a difference.

Katharine Chausee works as an instructor and Clinic Coordinator at Methodist College of Nursing, on 87th and Burt and lives on 168th and Giles, in Sarpy County. Chaussee says that the extra $50 a year would break her, as well as her daughter, who lives at home, but attends school in Omaha. Chaussee also says that if she were looking for a new job, she would try her hardest to find a new position outside of Omaha.

Tom Mumgaard, Omaha Deputy City Attorney, co-wrote the amendment that extended the wheel fee to non-residents of Omaha. Mumgaard says that if someone is working in Omaha, then they are obviously using the streets of Omaha, and causing deterioration. Mumgaard says that making them pay is only fair if they’re using Omaha’s facilities.

The new budget also adds $15 to the registration fee that Omahans are already paying, making it $50 a year.

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