ABOUT NEBRASKA CONNECTS WHAT IS NET? NET comprises NET Television, NET Radio, NET Foundations, Learning Services and Technology Services. The overall mission of NET is to connect Nebraska with stories and events that challenge and inspire every Nebraskan. Corporate support is vital for local programming initiatives. Along with performing a valuable community service, NET Television program underwriters enjoy effective television media exposure. WHAT IS NEBRASKA CONNECTS? Families, individuals, businesses and communities are challenged. Rural and urban areas face economic and social change. Important national and international events have far-reaching local consequences. While there are countless information sources, nowhere is there an accessible forum to develop public discourse, relate crucial information and encourage community involvement specifically for Nebraskans. Until now. NET is creating an exciting, new series of programs and events to address a wide range of public service topics. This is inspired programming made by Nebraskans, for Nebraskans, about Nebraskans. NET, with its established statewide networks, is uniquely positioned to provide leadership in engaging audiences on these important topics. In this first year of Nebraska Connects production, NET plans to produce new television and radio programs each month. Programming will originate from Nebraska communities through our remote production facilities and in our Lincoln studios. Citizens will become engaged through a variety of interactive means: telephone, internet, and face-to-face. Expert panelists will be brought together for live call-in shows. Town hall meetings will offer a forum for a free exchange of ideas among a group of people. Through NET's Web site, referral links will lead the audience to information resources and help and enable the audience to participate by submitting questions and comments via email. Programs will relate an issue and its effect on Nebraska and its citizens. Programs currently in development include: Personal finances Aging population Homeland security Family violence Foreign trade Personal taxes Water resource conflicts Planning for college Crime and justice Immigration National PBS programs relevant to the Nebraska Connects topics will also serve to enhance local programming and offer a national perspective.