Ogallala, Neb. — The Ogallala City Council met Tuesday evening for a regular session that included approvals for new fire department volunteers, a zoning change for residential development, and upcoming street projects.

The council began the meeting by welcoming three new members of the Ogallala Volunteer Fire Department: Tristan Markowski, John Morris, and Cory Wyckoff, the latter also serving as a new city officer.

A key item on the agenda was a public hearing and subsequent vote on rezoning the former Green Acres trailer park, located east of Travel America. Developer Brody Cleveland has acquired the property and plans to convert it into higher-density residential housing suitable for workforce needs. The council unanimously approved the rezoning from highway commercial to R3, clearing the way for Cleveland to plot the lots and move forward with infrastructure planning while addressing floodplain elevations.

The council also discussed a disputed engineering invoice related to prior construction stop orders. After reviewing the circumstances, the council agreed to cover part of the bill while clarifying that future projects would be responsible for securing engineering solutions to proceed.

In other business, the council acknowledged a contract for IT services with Mark Skinner, ensuring full transparency due to his family connection with the city clerk-treasurer. The move will address ongoing technical issues with the city’s proprietary email system, SmarterMail, which has increasingly conflicted with Outlook and other platforms.

Looking ahead, the council discussed plans for a half-cent sales tax proposal for infrastructure, potentially set for the November 2026 ballot. Officials highlighted that revenue from the tax, particularly from non-residents using local attractions like the resort and casino, could generate $700,000 to $900,000 annually for street and infrastructure projects.

Finally, the council approved an agreement for upcoming street work near City Hall. Construction is expected to begin Thursday, with some temporary closures of the drive-through window. Weather permitting, the projects—including work between Spruce and A streets—are scheduled to be complete by mid to late November.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins noted that despite some detailed discussions, the meeting concluded efficiently around 8:30 p.m.

Ogallala City Council Approves Workforce Housing, Prepares for Street Projects

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) saw a spike of COVID cases during late summer and fall this year, and now influenza is just beginning to appear. As cold weather approaches, we spend more time indoors with friends and family. With close contact and cold dry air, we are more likely to encounter viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. Knowing the difference can help us figure out what is making us sick and what treatments may help.

Colds, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can all have similar symptoms so it can be very challenging to know when it is serious or when to get medical care. For those more at risk of getting very sick, it is important to get tested so the right treatment can be given.

COLDS: Mild illness with symptoms usually starting 1 to 3 days after exposure. Symptoms include cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, watery eyes, and sneezing. Colds may last up to 10 days. Younger children are more likely to have colds, often 3 or more times per season. There is no vaccine or treatment that can combat a cold, though rest and over-the-counter medicines can help with symptoms.

INFLUENZA (flu): Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 2 to 4 days after exposure. Symptoms come on suddenly and include fever (not everyone will experience a fever), chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, and fatigue (tiredness). Some people have stomach issues, though this is more common in children. Symptoms may last 5 to 7 days with a shorter time for people who got a flu shot. Flu shots are available every year and help decrease the severity of symptoms as well as how long it lasts. Influenza is treatable with antiviral medication if identified within 48 hours after symptoms start, so check with your medical provider.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 5 days after exposure. Symptoms of RSV in children are fever, runny nose, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. Symptoms in adults are low grade fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing and headache. Symptoms may last 2-8 days. Severe illness from RSV is more common in young children and older adults, with labored breathing, thick mucus, or whistling sounds while breathing. Seek medical care for any of these symptoms. Multiple RSV vaccines are now available for young children and seniors aged 60 and older, to prevent severe illness.

COVID-19: Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually start 2 to 14 days after exposure. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you get COVID-19 and are at risk of getting very sick, treatments are available that can reduce your chances of needing to be hospitalized, so check with your medical provider or local pharmacy. COVID-19 vaccines are available that help decrease the severity of the symptoms as well as how long symptoms will last.

As with any illness, seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else is having trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure that is not going away, confusion, trouble waking up or staying awake, bluish lips or face, or an uncontrolled fever after taking fever reducing medication.

For more information contact Melissa Propp, Clinic Manager at 308-345-4223. SWNPHD serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties. You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube or view the website at www.swhealth.ne.gov which contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, promote and protect health.

SWNPHD: Respiratory Illnesses – What’s the Difference?

The Hot Sheets: October 15, 2025

CSC took care of a dangerous NM Highlands team Saturday to stay at the top of the RMAC.  Coach Long talks about how the game unfolded from the sideline, a great Saturday for a pair of running backs, if there's been a change in pressure seven games in, and looks at this week's game at Fort Lewis.

🎙 PODCAST: Jay Long Show - 10/14/25

OGALLALA — The women of Keith County are proving, once again, what can happen when purpose meets generosity.

100 Women Who Care – Keith County held their fall meeting Monday night at The Hayloft, gathering to reconnect and renew their commitment to local impact. Since the group began, members have collectively raised an impressive $222,425 for area nonprofits — each quarter aiming to raise $10,000 in just one evening of giving.

This week’s meeting carried a special message of rebuilding and growth, as members looked to welcome new faces and reengage past participants. “This is our moment to rebuild,” organizers shared in the event announcement. “Let’s invite fresh energy, new faces, and big hearts into our group.”

Their collective giving once again made a difference — with Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy selected as the final giving recipient of 2025.

The organization continues to encourage women to get involved, whether by attending meetings or contributing from afar. Members can join with a $100 quarterly donation that goes directly to local causes.

The next gathering for 100 Women Who Care – Keith County is scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026.

Together, they continue to make Keith County stronger — one generous woman at a time.

100 Women Who Care Keith County Rebuilds, Reconnects, and Celebrates Giving

The Hot Sheets: October 14, 2025

Community Ties Giving Program invests in safety, community vitality, and local impact

Union Pacific Railroad is continuing its long-standing support of Nebraska communities, awarding more than $300,000 in grants across the state through its Community Ties Giving Program — including several organizations in North Platte and Ogallala.

In North Platte, four nonprofits received funding for projects that strengthen community engagement and growth. The recipients include the Golden Spike Tower &amp; Visitor Center, Habitat for Humanity International, the Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation, and the North Platte Community College Foundation.

Each organization plays a unique role in supporting local quality of life — from preserving North Platte’s rail heritage to expanding affordable housing, education, and community development initiatives.

Meanwhile, in Ogallala, the Front Street Cowboy Museum was among this year’s Nebraska grantees, recognized for its work preserving local history and enriching the region’s tourism and cultural identity.

Union Pacific distributed more than $4 million nationwide to 430 nonprofit organizations this year, focusing on projects that align with the company’s four core giving priorities: safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. Grant amounts ranged from $5,000 to $30,000, helping drive measurable impact in towns and cities across 23 states.

“Union Pacific is committed to empowering local organizations that are driving meaningful change,” said Liisa Lawson Stark, vice president of Public Affairs for Union Pacific Railroad. “These nonprofits are the heartbeat of their communities, and we’re honored to support their efforts to create safer, more vibrant places.”

The Community Ties Giving Program operates through an annual competitive grant process that opens each April. Eligible nonprofit organizations can learn more or apply online at <a href="https://www.up.com/CommunityTies">up.com/CommunityTies</a>.

Union Pacific — headquartered in Omaha — operates one of the largest freight networks in the United States, connecting communities across 23 western states and helping move goods that power the economy.

Union Pacific Awards Grants to North Platte and Ogallala Nonprofits

The Hot Sheets: October 13, 2025

OGALLALA, Neb. — The Ogallala City Council will meet Tuesday, October 14, at 7 p.m. at City Hall, located at 411 East 2nd Street. The meeting will cover a range of topics, including a rezoning request, an information technology contract, and several city project updates.

The evening will begin with roll call and the consent agenda. The council is expected to approve three probationary members for the Ogallala Volunteer Fire Department — Tristan Markowski, John Morris, and Cory Waychoff.

A public hearing will follow to discuss a request from Planning and Zoning to rezone property described as a tract in the NE SW¼ Outlots of Section 8, Township 13 North, Range 38 West of the 6th P.M. in Keith County. The parcel, owned by Brody Cleveland, is currently zoned as C-4 Business District for interstate highway use. The proposal would change it to R-3 Residential District for high-density housing.

During the clerk-treasurer’s report, the council will review minutes from the September 23 meetings, along with the September financial report and an invoice from Dickinson Land Surveyors related to Planning and Zoning work.

The council will also consider opening a contract with Mark Skinner for information technology services. Another item on the agenda calls for dissolving the Interlocal Cooperation Act Agreement that created the Ogallala Public Infrastructure Agency. The rezoning request for Brody Cleveland’s property will come up again later in the meeting under Ordinance 1447.

The Street Department will present an agreement for professional services related to construction engineering for work planned along East 2nd Street between East C and East D Streets, as well as on West 2nd Street from West A to Spruce Streets.

Reports from the city attorney, city manager, and city council members will close out the meeting. City Manager Bruce Smith is expected to provide updates on ongoing projects.

The public is encouraged to attend, and time will be set aside early in the meeting for community comments. Copies of all written materials to be discussed will be available for the public to review at the meeting, in accordance with Nebraska law. The council also reserves the right to enter closed session if necessary.

Ogallala City Council to consider rezoning request, IT contract, and more at October 14 meeting

The Hot Sheets: October 12, 2025

The Hot Sheets: October 11, 2025

On today's first episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed the opening days of the preseason, how this young team is reacting to the early stages of the season, and what to expect in the opening games of the season.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #1 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's special edition episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss how the preseason games of the season at the All-American Showcase in Wichita went, and thoughts going into another round of preseason games.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #2 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors approved the 2025-26 budget Wednesday during a meeting on the North Platte campus while also receiving updates on student life, faculty, and campus initiatives.

The meeting began with public hearings on setting the 2025 property tax requirement and adopting the college’s budget. No members of the public spoke during either hearing. MPCC President Ryan Purdy described the hearings as “pretty uneventful,” noting that most funding now comes from the state-funded Future Fund rather than property taxes.

“Our levy for the second year, our maximum, is $0.02,” Purdy said. “The board elected to stay with the $0.02 capital levy, which has been in place for about the last 10 years. That’s the funding we’re allowed to use for capital construction and facility renovation.”

The college’s total budget for all funds is just under $60 million, with $5.45 million funded through property taxes. MPCC maintains facilities across its 18-county service area, with a combined insurable value of $200 million.

Fall enrollment has increased 9.5%, and dual enrollment is up 24%, which Purdy said benefits students while supporting funding. “Right now in the fall of '25 compared to fall of '24, we’re experiencing about a 9.5% increase in enrollment, which is huge, and will help our funding. Dual enrollment has been fantastic…we’re seeing a 24% increase right now in dual enrollment across the service area,” he said.

Student trustees Vernon Graham of North Platte and Jackson Delevaux of McCook gave updates on intramurals, sports, concerts, and festivals. “It’s fun to hear the things that are going on—the intramurals, the student life, some of the concerts and festivals. Great to have students at the table to get their input,” Purdy said. 

Faculty representative Jesse Lovett highlighted English Department conferences and publications.

Other business included approving August bills totaling $1.4 million, settling a 22-year-old worker’s compensation claim, and carrying forward $18.6 million in unused budget authority. 

The next regular MPCC board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 15 at MCC East Campus in McCook.

🎙️MPCC Board Approves 2025-26 Budget, Reports Enrollment Growth and Campus Updates

OGALLALA, Neb. — The Ogallala Regional Arts Council will kick off its fall concert season Sunday with a performance by Young Original at the Ogallala Performing Arts Center.

The concert begins at 4 p.m. at Ogallala High School. Young Original is a quartet of musicians with ties to Branson and Nashville, blending classic melodies with jazz, folk and other genres.

“This is a very energetic group that appeals to all ages,” said board member Mary Jensen during a recent interview on Z 93.5 Country's Sandhills Spotlight.

Tickets are available at the door. Memberships, which include admission to all five annual concerts, will also be sold beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday.

Memberships start at $30 for individuals, $60 for couples and $75 for a family of four.

“It’s one of the best values out there,” said Shirai Armstrong, the council’s membership chair. “An individual pays $15 at the door, but a membership breaks down to just $6 per concert — and these are world-class performers.”

The season continues Oct. 8 with Mexican Brass, a touring quintet known for its mix of classical and modern flair. That concert begins at 7 p.m., also at the Ogallala Performing Arts Center.

Council leaders encouraged residents across Keith County and surrounding areas to attend and consider supporting the arts through memberships.

“Our members, donors and partners help us bring these concerts to Ogallala,” Jensen said. “It’s not just about great music — it’s about bringing the community together.”

For more information on memberships or upcoming performances, visit the Ogallala Regional Arts Council’s website or stop by the Performing Arts Center before the Sunday show.

Ogallala Arts Council to host concerts featuring Young Original, Mexican Brass (Podcast)

Gift of Hope Cancer Foundation to host 22nd annual fundraiser Sept. 16

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — A steak dinner, auctions, and live music will all be part of the 22nd annual Gift of Hope Cancer Foundation fundraiser Tuesday, Sept. 16, at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds.

The evening begins with a social hour at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy a New York strip steak with baked potato, salad, dessert bar, and two complimentary drinks. Entertainment will be provided by the Flat Rock Irregulars, with a silent auction running from 5 to 7 p.m. and a live auction to follow.

Organizers Janet Cox and Kathy Hahn said the fundraiser plays a vital role in helping local cancer patients. The Gift of Hope provides financial assistance to families across western Nebraska — stretching as far as Lexington to the east, the Wyoming border to the west, and into South Dakota and Kansas. Support can include help with gas, utilities, and rent.

“All of our funding comes from donations and events like this banquet,” Hahn said. “Your donation means hope, relief, and strength for someone facing the fight of their life. No one should battle cancer alone.”

The foundation assists as many as 80 people each year, and every dollar raised stays in the region. Cox called the banquet “a really, really fun evening” and “a rewarding evening because we feel like we can help a lot of people.” She added that the community has been supportive across generations throughout the fundraiser’s 22-year history.

Organizers say the night promises not only good food and community spirit but also big-ticket auction items, including Husker volleyball tickets and Husker football tickets — with one package offering 50-yard line seats in the clubhouse.

Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Children 12 and under eat free. Tickets can be purchased by calling Jan at 308-539-4040, Sharon at 308-289-0985, or by visiting the Gift of Hope Facebook page.&nbsp;

Purchase tickets online&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/4kCX4q6">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎙️Serving Hope: Inside the Gift of Hope’s 22nd Annual Fundraiser

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Get ready, North Platte! St. Patrick’s Church is rolling out two full days of food, games, music, and family fun for its annual Block Party this weekend.

The celebration kicks off Saturday, Sept. 13, from 6:30 to 11 p.m. with an evening designed for adults. Guests can enjoy live music from Kim Baxter, a free-will donation nacho bar prepared by parish volunteers, and a beer garden featuring local craft brews from Ape Ship. The party takes over the parking lot at 5th and Walnut streets, and everyone is welcome — no church membership required.

Sunday, Sept. 14, from noon to 3 p.m., shifts the spotlight to families. Kids can jump into bounce houses, play cornhole and pickleball, or join games run by local sports teams, while parents enjoy a barbecue luncheon featuring shredded beef, scalloped potatoes, green beans, and pies for $12 per plate or $40 per family. The street north of the church will be blocked off to create a safe, festive space for everyone.

Raffles add extra excitement this year. Prizes include $500 cash, gift cards, and coveted reserved pews for Christmas Mass. A special $50 raffle offers one lucky winner a full year of tuition at North Platte Catholic Schools — only 200 tickets will be sold.

“Part of our faith is where God makes us part of His family. And what do families do? They get together,” said Father Johnathan Sorensen. “This block party is a big old family party.”

Maddy Krebs, a member of the organizing committee, said, “We wanted to create something for everyone — adults, kids, families, and anyone in the community who wants to come out. Seeing people connect and have fun is what makes it all worth it.”

She added, “It takes a lot of planning and support from local businesses and volunteers, but the smiles on people’s faces make it all worth it. I love watching kids play and families enjoy the day together.”

The weekend format, introduced three years ago, gives adults a night out while keeping Sunday fun for families and children. Volunteers and parishioners spend months preparing, with support from local businesses that donate meals, prizes, and other essentials.

“Community is at the heart of this event,” Father Sorensen said. “Whether it’s sharing a meal, winning a raffle, or just laughing together, it’s about building relationships and celebrating together.”

Whether you’re there for the music, the nachos, or the chance to win free tuition, St. Patrick’s Block Party promises something for everyone — making it one of North Platte’s can’t-miss community events of the season.

🎙️Music, Games, and Raffles: St. Patrick’s Block Party Hits North Platte This Weekend

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — After years of running boards, hosting shows, and chasing stories across Nebraska, Allison Peck is now the news director North Platte didn’t know it needed — until now. Listeners quickly noticed her arrival on the airwaves, sending emails and texts praising the “new news lady” — articulate, clear, and engaging.

Peck is Eagle Media’s storyteller behind North Platte Post and Sandhills Post, bringing a mix of experience, energy, and a passion for local stories.

“Allison was the one we were waiting for,” said Operations Manager Derek Beck. “We had a lot of people that applied for this job. We were super picky about it, so this job’s been open since April I think. We really, really wanted to make sure that we didn’t hit a single or a double — we really wanted to hit a home run and we were very patient.”

Peck’s journey in radio began in McCook in 2016. Then a college student, she balanced her time between running the board for live sports broadcasts and serving as an unpaid intern. She managed summer remote events, hosted her own show, and even delivered weather forecasts. Within a year, she was promoted to paid intern while pursuing theater and media communications at Doane University.

When she returned to McCook in 2019, Peck took on a full-time role in sales. She also hosted a midday show, continued weather reports, and occasionally board operated. She worked closely with the operations manager daily, an experience that gave her a front-row seat to the complexities of running a station.

Those years gave her a reputation for versatility. “Which you can see, is why she was a really great candidate for this job, because [she's] kind of a Swiss Army knife that knows how to do a lot of things,” Beck said. “...but I kind of turned [her] loose after three days and said, hey, go do it.”

In fall of 2020, Peck left McCook to move to Lincoln. She worked as a client marketing coordinator in sales for NRG Media from May 2021 through September. That fall, her first daughter, Raegan, was born, and Peck stepped away from broadcasting and sales to focus on motherhood.

The next three years were a whirlwind of moves — a return to McCook, a short stay in Mitchell, then a year in Ogallala. Along the way, Peck and her husband, Joseph — a North Platte native and now EMT — welcomed their second daughter, Ryleigh, this past April.

“Being a stay-at-home mom was the most rewarding and the most overwhelming thing I’ve ever done,” Peck said. “I loved every moment with my girls, but I also felt like I was missing a part of myself.&nbsp; — My husband even says I come home happier. I feel like everyone gets a better version of me.”

For Beck, who worked with Peck years ago in McCook, seeing her return to radio was both exciting and natural. “You kind of have it in your head who that person might be or what they would sound like,” he said. “Literally when I saw [her] application come through, I’m like box checked, box checked, box checked.”

Listeners have echoed his confidence. “I don’t know how many texts and emails I’ve had saying hey, we like the new news lady. She sounds really good. She’s very articulate. The news is really good,” Beck said.

Now based in North Platte, Peck has taken on the dual role of directing news coverage and hosting Good Morning North Platte at 9 a.m. on 98.1 FM. She describes herself first and foremost as a storyteller — a passion rooted in theater from the age of five and carried through her years of writing, reporting, and broadcasting.

“You do, you kind of light up about the news stuff,” Beck told her during their on-air introduction. “You’re easy to listen to. We’re just gonna continue to let you do some of the things that you enjoy doing. But I think that morning show on 98.1 has got your name kind of written all over it.” That show airs from 6 a.m to 10 a.m. with news and interview focus from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Peck said she hopes the community will share stories with her. 

“There’s only one of me and there’s a very big town,” she said. “If there’s news out there that I don’t know about that I should know about, if there’s an event happening that should be a story — yeah, definitely reach out. Let me know. It’s allison.peck@eaglemedia.com for my email and I’d be happy to take all the news.”

Eagle Media and the North Platte community are excited to welcome Allison Peck to her new home and newsroom. With her extensive experience, versatility, and passion for local storytelling, she is poised to become a familiar and trusted voice on the airwaves and online. The newsroom encourages residents to share the stories that make North Platte unique — helping Allison continue her journey of shining a light on the people and events that define the community.

🎙️ From Button-Pusher to News Director: Allison Peck Finds Her Voice at Eagle Media

OGALLALA, Neb. — Mid-Plains Community College’s Ogallala campus is welcoming students this fall with a variety of classes and special programs, including late-start options and unique educational opportunities, college officials said Wednesday.

Jenny Soper, director of the Ogallala campus, said classes are in full swing, but students who missed the traditional August registration still have options. The college is offering 12-week courses beginning Sept. 15, providing a chance for high school students to earn dual credit—college and high school credit simultaneously—at no tuition cost.

“These classes give students a head start on the credits they’ll need for any degree path,” Soper said. “You only have to pay for books, and many courses are fully online now, so there’s flexibility for everyone.”

Among the classes available are English composition, college algebra, American government, and sociology. Soper emphasized the advantage of completing required courses while still in high school.

In addition to core academic offerings, the campus is hosting a conversational Spanish class. The 12-week course, led by an instructor based in Perkins County, meets weekly on Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Perkins County High School. Enrollment remains open at $129, including a textbook, despite a pre-registration deadline.

The campus is also providing educational workshops for the wider community. In October, State Trooper Templet will conduct three free classes covering topics such as anti-bullying strategies and recognizing the symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse. Soper said the sessions are designed for parents and community members who want to stay informed about pressing social issues.

“Whether it’s students looking to get ahead in their coursework or parents seeking educational resources, we encourage everyone to reach out,” Soper said. “Our staff is always available, and information is easy to find on our website or by visiting the campus.”

The Ogallala campus continues to highlight opportunities that combine convenience, accessibility, and practical learning experiences for both students and community members.

For more information about classes, dual credit options, or community workshops, residents can contact Mid-Plains Community College’s Ogallala campus or visit <a>mpcc.edu</a>.

🎙️ Ogallala Campus of Mid-Plains Community College Offers Late-Start Classes, Special Programs This Fall 

LEWELLEN, Neb. — Riders will saddle up at Ash Hollow State Historical Park on Sept. 6 for the Velvet Spurs’ annual horseback poker run, a fundraiser for the Friends of Ash Hollow.

The family-friendly event begins at 10 a.m. Mountain Time, with registration at the park’s main entrance. Riders will travel trails through the historic landmark, stopping at stations to collect poker cards. Prizes will be awarded for the top three hands, along with the worst hand.

“It’s very family-friendly. There’s no time event on it, so you don’t have to speed,” said Velvet Spurs President Jean Tobiasson. “You can take your time, enjoy looking at the wildlife and the history up there, and just bring the whole family.”

The event, now in its third year, will feature some newly mapped trails, including a lookout point offering views of Lake McConaughy. The ride is $10 per participant, with entry available the day of the event.

Following the ride, participants are invited to a potluck dinner. The Velvet Spurs will provide sloppy joes and tableware, and riders are asked to bring a salad or dessert.

If inclement weather forces a postponement, the event will be rescheduled for Sept. 20.

Ash Hollow, located at the west end of Lake McConaughy, holds deep historical significance as a Native American buffalo jump site and features preserved cultural landmarks.

For more information, riders may contact Tobiasson or register on-site the morning of the ride.

🎙️ Velvet Spurs set Sept. 6 horseback poker run at Ash Hollow

HERSHEY, Neb. (Aug. 19, 2025) — The Hershey Lions Club is gearing up for a full day of small-town tradition and big-time entertainment Saturday as the Hershey Fall Festival returns, capped off by a concert featuring Texas country artist Casey Donahew.

The festival kicks off at 10:30 a.m. with a parade along Main Street, winding down to the park where events continue throughout the day. Highlights include a prime rib lunch, car show, tractor display, local vendors, and the Hershey Volunteer Fire Department’s popular water fight. Other crowd favorites are set to return as well, including Cow Pie Bingo and the Beer Olympics at Kathy’s Place.

“This festival really brings everyone together all day,” said Lions Club member Justin Petska. “There’s something for everyone, from families at the park to folks who just want to come out and enjoy the concert at night.”

The evening festivities open at 5 p.m. with a beer garden and food vendors, followed by live music. Drew Phillips will open the show before Donahew takes the stage downtown against the backdrop of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks — a setting organizers say makes the event unique.

Advance tickets are $20 and available at Hershey State Bank locations in North Platte and Hershey, as well as online at outhousetickets.com. Tickets will also be available at the gate for $25. Drinks will be sold on a ticket system, with beer and seltzers available for $5 each.

Petska said the festival has become the Lions Club’s biggest fundraiser, helping to support community projects throughout the year. He credited sponsors and local support for making the event possible.

“When you see a thousand people packed into Main Street in Hershey, it’s pretty special,” Petska said. “We couldn’t put on a weekend like this without the help of our sponsors and the community.

<a href="https://outhousetickets.com/events/hershey-fall-festival-2025">GET TICKETS HERE</a>

Casey Donahew to Headline Hershey Fall Festival on Saturday (Podcast)

WASHINGTON– The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has obtained credible intelligence indicating that Mexican criminals, in coordination with domestic extremist groups have placed targeted bounties on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel, according to a statement from the agency.

These criminal networks have issued explicit instructions to U.S.-based sympathetics, including street gangs in Chicago, to monitor, harass, and assassinate federal agents. Specific details from ongoing investigations include:&nbsp;

In Portland and Chicago, Antifa groups have provided logistical support such as pre-staged protest supplies, doxxing of agent identities, and on-the-ground interference to shield cartel-linked individuals from deportation.&nbsp;

“These criminal networks are not just resisting the rule of law, they are waging an organized campaign of terror against the brave men and women who protect our borders and communities,”&nbsp;said Secretary Kristi Noem. “Our agents are facing ambushes, drone surveillance, and death threats, all because they dare to enforce the laws passed by Congress. We will not back down from these threats, and every criminal, terrorist, and illegal alien will face American justice.”

DHS will not be deterred by these threats and calls on sanctuary state and local leaders to cease policies that embolden criminals. The public is urged to report suspicious activities—such as rooftop surveillance or organized protests blocking federal operations—to the DHS Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or via the ICE website.&nbsp;

DHS: Mexican gangs offering bounties for ICE agent assassinations

<a href="https://www.nebeef.org/resources/newsroom/news/details/44364/bridging-agriculture-and-nutrition-nebraska-beef-council-engages-future-dietitians">By: Madison Doeschot - Nebraska Beef Council&nbsp;</a>

Kearney, Ne - Mitch Rippe, Nebraska Beef Council Director of Nutrition and Education, has been busy connecting the worlds of agriculture and dietetics through two impactful learning experiences for dietetic interns from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.&nbsp;

In an effort to bridge the gap between dietetic programs and the agricultural industry, the Nebraska Beef Council recently hosted a comprehensive farm tour offering future dietitians’ firsthand exposure to the beef production cycle.&nbsp;

Stops included Lienetics Ranch, Weber &amp; Sons Co., and McLean Beef’s retail and processing facility, where students learned about sustainability, animal care, and food safety. Nebraska Beef Council Board Member Mark Goes led an interactive meat science session utilizing carcasses donated from the Cattlemen’s Ball, including Angus, Hereford, Beef x Dairy, and Piedmontese breeds. Students used tools and data to calculate ribeye area and quality grade, connecting classroom knowledge to real-world applications.&nbsp;

UNMC intern Kennedy Jones reflected on the experience:&nbsp;

“Seeing how feed is designed to promote healthy growth helped me better understand the link between animal nutrition and the quality of beef people eat. Watching the steps of portioning, packaging, and labeling made me think differently about food safety. It made food systems feel much more personal.”&nbsp;

Media &amp; Communications Workshop&nbsp;

Following the tour, the Nebraska Beef Council also hosted a Media and Communications Workshop, designed to help dietetic interns strengthen their communication skills and build confidence when sharing nutrition information with the public. Sessions were led by expert partners, including Hannah Guenther, Food, Nutrition, and Health Extension Educator with Nebraska Extension, who led Communicating Health with Impact: Tailoring Health Messages for Every Community, and Melissa Joy Dobbins, MS, RDN, CDCES, host of the nationally recognized Sound Bites® Podcast, who presented Messaging, Bridging, and Beyond. These sessions equipped interns with tools for message consistency, consumer trust, and effectively navigating complex food conversations.

Bridging Agriculture and Nutrition: Nebraska Beef Council Engages Future Dietitians

Washington D.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court is rearguing Louisiana v. Callais today, October 15, 2025 — a case that could redefine how race can be considered in drawing congressional districts and potentially shift the balance of power in Congress.

The dispute began after Louisiana lawmakers were ordered by a lower court to add a second majority-Black district, finding the state’s original map diluted Black voting strength under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. That new map was later struck down by another federal court, which ruled the lines amounted to unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.

The Court first heard arguments in the case on March 24, 2025, but requested additional briefing, prompting today’s reargument on whether any race-based redistricting — even when ordered as a remedy under the Voting Rights Act — is constitutional.

Civil rights advocates warn the outcome could dramatically weaken the landmark voting law, which has protected minority voting power for nearly 60 years. Legal experts say a ruling against the use of race-conscious maps could affect congressional boundaries in several states and potentially cost Democrats a number of seats. Some estimates suggest Republicans could gain as many as 15 to 19 districts nationwide if the Court strikes down such maps.&nbsp;

Conservative justices, including Clarence Thomas, have long questioned the constitutionality of using race in redistricting, emphasizing a “color-blind” interpretation of the law. Liberal justices, meanwhile, have argued that ignoring race altogether would erase decades of progress in ensuring fair representation for minority voters.

Louisiana officials contend that the map drawn in 2024 relied too heavily on race and should be invalidated. Civil rights groups counter that race must be considered to comply with the Voting Rights Act and to ensure equal political opportunity.

Today’s hearing drew national attention from both political parties, voting rights organizations, and state officials watching for guidance on how future redistricting battles will unfold.

A decision in Louisiana v. Callais is expected by next summer.

Supreme Court Hears Major Voting Rights Case With Potential to Reshape Congress

Little progress has been made to end&nbsp;the government shutdown&nbsp;as it enters its third week. On Tuesday, Senate chaplain, Retired Rear-Admiral Barry Black, asked&nbsp;the Lord to bring a ceasefire to "our legislative combat."

The shutdown&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-trump-health-care-54b2a584657a0b619bc8326708a05604">began on Oct. 1</a>&nbsp;after Democrats rejected a short-term funding fix and demanded that the bill include an extension of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">federal subsidies for health insurance</a>&nbsp;under the Affordable Care Act. Trump and other Republican leaders have said the government must reopen before they will negotiate with Democrats on the health subsidies.

🎥Senate chaplain prays for "ceasefire" to end government shutdown

MCCOOK, Neb. — Governor Jim Pillen’s office has confirmed that Nebraska’s new ICE detention center in McCook is expected to be operational by November 1, though questions continue to surround transparency and oversight of the project.

The facility is a conversion of the state-run Work Ethic Camp, a minimum-security correctional program focused on rehabilitation and workforce development. The site, now branded the “Cornhusker Clink,” will house up to 300 low- to medium-risk ICE detainees, though the original facility was designed for fewer inmates. Detainees are expected to stay an average of five to fifty days while awaiting immigration proceedings. Pillen has said the partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is meant to address federal immigration needs while creating jobs in southwest Nebraska.

The project was publicly announced in August 2025, and state officials say it is on track for a November 1 opening. The state will continue to own and operate the facility through the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, with the federal government reimbursing the state for housing costs. Pillen’s office has not confirmed whether a final contract with the federal government has been signed, citing ongoing negotiations. About 186 current state inmates have already been relocated to accommodate the change, highlighting the logistical challenges of the conversion.

While the governor has framed the project as a “win-win” for the state and federal authorities, it has faced growing criticism from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and residents. At least nine public records requests filed by news outlets seeking details of the negotiations have been denied or heavily redacted. Pillen’s office has cited legal exemptions and confidentiality agreements, but critics argue that the state is sidestepping public oversight.

Local responses remain mixed. Some community members and leaders see the facility as an economic opportunity that could bring jobs in security, administration, and support services, while others are concerned about the lack of public input, facility readiness, and potential long-term impacts on McCook. Lawmakers have also expressed concerns about staffing levels and whether the site can safely accommodate the new detainees.

Questions also remain about who will be housed at the facility, including whether women or families will be included, and what specific security or medical protocols will be in place. Pillen has stated that detainees will be low-risk individuals, emphasizing the state’s role in enforcing law and order while cooperating with federal authorities.

As the November 1 opening date approaches, the McCook ICE facility continues to draw attention from both supporters and opponents, highlighting the tension between operational goals and public transparency in Nebraska’s approach to federal immigration enforcement.

McCook ICE Facility 18 Days From Opening Amid Transparency Concerns

🎥Trump posthumously awards Charlie Kirk the Medal of Freedom

🎥6 killed after US strikes another drug boat of Venezuela 

Lincoln, October 14, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold a formal hearing in the Black Hills Energy Rate Case (NG-124) beginning at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday October 15, in the Commission hearing room and online.

On May 1, Black Hills Energy filed an application with the PSC seeking a $34.6 million dollar rate increase. The proposal will increase Black Hills’ fixed customer charges and distribution charges, the rates regulated by the Commission. The Commission has until January 1, 2026, to make its decision regarding Black Hills Energy’s rate increase application.

Testimony and comments made during the formal hearing will be limited to the parties involved in the proceedings, including Black Hills Energy, and the Public Advocate. Customers are represented by the Public Advocate, an attorney with experience in natural gas matters appointed pursuant to statute.

Information for viewing the hearing can be found on the commission calendar on the PSC website. Additional information can be found on the NG-124 Black Hills Energy Rate Case page of under the Natural Gas Department tab of the PSC website.

Nebraska Commission to Hold Formal Hearing in Black Hills Energy Rate Case

October 14, 2025 (Omaha, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested a Georgia woman after locating 130 pounds of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 in eastern Nebraska.

Saturday, at approximately 6:45 p.m., a trooper stopped an eastbound Nissan Altima for speeding on I-80 near mile marker 440. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity. A K9 with the Papillion Police Department detected the odor of a controlled substance coming from the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle revealed several trash bags in the trunk, containing suspected methamphetamine. The total weight was 130 pounds.

The driver, Iesha Smith, 47, of Smyrna, Georgia, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. She was lodged in Sarpy County Jail.

Troopers Find 130 LBs of Methamphetamine in I-80 Traffic Stop

October 14, 2025 (Kearney, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol hosted troopers and officers from eleven other states for a week of training that will help keep roadways safe across the country.

Last week, NSP Carrier Enforcement troopers provided a series of training sessions focused on commercial motor vehicle safety, including inspections and post-crash investigations. The training included troopers and officers from Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Idaho, Texas, Wisconsin, Vermont, Illinois, and Kansas.

“Teamwork across state lines is important to keep America’s roadways safe,” said Captain Martin Denton, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to share their training with troopers and officers from across the country. The scenarios are based on actual encounters and situations our troopers have experienced. Thanks to all the participants and our local partners for making last week’s training a success.”

The training sessions provided both classroom and hands-on instruction in areas of forensic examination of commercial motor vehicles, as well as completion of post-crash inspections of commercial motor vehicles.

NSP received assistance from several local partners to make this training as valuable as possible. Thank you to the Nebraska Trucking Association, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, Crete Carrier Corp., Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC, Randy and Brian’s Towing, Dowhy Towing, Carney Towing, Great West Casualty Insurance, Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, Nebraska Department of Transportation, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for their partnership in this training.

NSP Hosts Officials from 11 States for Commercial Vehicle Training

🏐 Tuesday Prep Volleyball Scoreboard - October 14

◼ Alliance def. Mitchell 25-17, 25-14, 25-17 (3-0)

◼ Arthur County def. South Platte 25-22, 25-21 (2-0)

◼ Chadron def. Sidney 12-25, 25-21, 25-14, 25-16 (3-1)

◼ Garden County def. Potter-Dix 25-14, 25-19 (2-0)

◼ Garden County def. Wallace 25-12, 25-15 (2-0)

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