CHASE COUNTY — A high-speed pursuit involving a stolen vehicle moved through much of Chase County and into Imperial Thursday afternoon before ending with two arrests.

According to the Chase County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy spotted a dark-colored sedan traveling at a high rate of speed west of Imperial on Highway 6 around 2:39 p.m. The vehicle was clocked above the posted 65 mile-per-hour speed limit.

The deputy attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle, identified as a black Ford Fusion without license plates, but the driver failed to stop and continued eastbound, increasing speed.

As the pursuit continued, another deputy positioned stop sticks farther east on Highway 6 before the vehicle entered Imperial. Officers with the Imperial Police Department also staged at the north end of Broadway Street. Authorities say the driver was able to swerve around the stop sticks and continued through Imperial.

The vehicle traveled onto Spur 15A and into Champion, then looped back toward Imperial using county roads. Spike strips were successfully deployed before the vehicle reentered town.

The pursuit continued through Imperial and east on Highway 6, where the vehicle left the roadway and drove through several fields before returning to town. After traveling through streets and yards in Imperial, the vehicle was finally stopped at the intersection of East Third Street and Highway 61.

The driver, identified as 25-year-old Brian Foster of Denver, Colorado, and a passenger, 25-year-old Michelle Marie Fernandez of Florida, were taken into custody without further incident.

Investigators later confirmed the Ford Fusion had been reported stolen.

Foster was arrested on charges including possession of a stolen vehicle, flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Authorities say additional charges are possible as the investigation continues. Foster is also reportedly wanted in Colorado on multiple felony charges.

Two Arrested After Stolen Vehicle Pursuit in Chase County

Listen to the full interview with Joe Richeson on our Kubota Podcast

Central Nebraska community partners are coming together to host a free Ag Health and Safety Event, Cultivating Health, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, in Gothenburg.

The event will be held at the Dayspring Bank Event Center and is designed to take a broad look at the health, safety, and day-to-day challenges involved in agriculture and rural life.

Joe Richeson, one of the organizers, said the event goes beyond traditional safety training.

“This isn’t hard-hat safety or excavation safety,” Richeson said. “It’s more of a top-down approach to what it takes to run an ag operation, whether you’re a producer, farmer, rancher, or involved in ag in some other way.”

Sessions throughout the day will cover a wide range of topics, including mental health, distracted driving, water quality and quantity, nitrates in drinking water, occupational safety, and nutrition for long workdays in the field.

Presenters include the Nebraska Trucking Association, members of the governor’s groundwater task force, Nebraska Medicine, and an occupational therapist focusing on safe movement and body mechanics. A session on food preparation will also address how to safely prepare energy-rich meals for long days during planting, harvesting, or livestock work.

Richeson said the event is open to anyone, not just those directly involved in agriculture.

“You don’t have to be ag-related to attend,” he said. “Ag touches everyone’s life every day, whether you realize it or not.”

Spouses and family members are encouraged to attend, particularly for the mental health session, which focuses on coping with the stresses unique to the agricultural industry, including markets, employees, and daily uncertainty.

The event begins at 10:30 a.m. Exhibit booths will be set up by noon and remain open until 4 p.m., with sessions concluding at 4 p.m. A business-after-hours event will follow from 4 to 7 p.m.

Attendees may come and go throughout the day and are not required to stay for all sessions. A free lunch will be provided, and local FFA members will assist during the event.

Health screenings will also be available through Gothenburg Health, with options for multiple screenings, including full blood work for those who choose to fast.

Registration is not required but is encouraged. Information is available on the Gothenburg Health Facebook page, the Gothenburg Irrigation Facebook page, or by contacting Richeson directly at 308-529-1181.

The free event is open to the public and will take place at the Dayspring Bank Event Center in Gothenburg on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

🎙️Central Nebraska Partners to Host Free Ag Health and Safety Event in Gothenburg

The Hot Sheets: January 30, 2026

Listen to the full interview with Megan Doughty on our Kubota Podcast

NORTH PLATTE — The Miss Nebraska Organization will return to North Platte in early February for its annual Crowns and Gowns weekend, bringing pageant events, leadership workshops and a former Miss America to the community.

Crowns and Gowns is scheduled for Feb. 6–8 and serves as the final local competition opportunity for contestants before the Miss Nebraska state pageant in June. Events are centered around professional development for young women ages 14 to 27, as well as public activities open to the community.

This year’s weekend will feature Heather French Henry, Miss America 2000, who will serve as a keynote guest throughout the weekend. French Henry will emcee the local Miss Nebraska competition on Friday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. at Mid-Plains Community College. Doors are expected to open at 6:30 p.m., with tickets available at the door.

She will also headline a Women’s Empowerment Luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at North 40 Chophouse. Tickets for the luncheon are available online at MissNebraska.org.

Megan Doughty, executive director of the Miss Nebraska Organization, said Crowns and Gowns is designed to help young women grow far beyond the stage.

“The word ‘pageant’ is really a misnomer anymore,” Doughty said. “It’s about developing personal passions, advocacy and life skills that carry through long after competition.”

Throughout the weekend, delegates will participate in workshops focused on interview skills, public speaking, branding, advocacy development and community engagement. Professional hair and makeup services, headshot photography and private gown appointments will also be offered.

The local competition includes personal interviews with judges, on-stage questions, fitness wear, evening gown and talent segments. Scholarships are awarded based on placement and special awards.

According to Doughty, the Miss Nebraska Organization awards more than $40,000 annually in cash scholarships, along with access to more than $1 million in tuition scholarships through partnerships with Nebraska colleges and universities.

The current titleholders include Miss Nebraska’s Teen Gabriella Swift of North Platte and Miss Nebraska 2025 Mackenzie Gregory of Scottsbluff.

Doughty said community support has helped make North Platte a key location for pageant events statewide.

“We’re bringing young women from across Nebraska to experience our community,” she said. “It’s about showcasing North Platte while helping these delegates realize their potential.”

More information, including luncheon tickets and registration details for prospective contestants, is available at MissNebraska.org.

🎙️Crowns and Gowns Weekend Brings Miss America 2000, Workshops to North Platte

The Hot Sheets: January 29, 2026

Listen to the full interview with Melissa Ewert on our Kubota Podcast

Ogallala, Neb. - The Ogallala YMCA is building momentum heading into February with new members, upcoming fitness challenges, expanded class offerings, and plans to introduce indoor pickleball.

Melissa Ewert, branch executive director of the Ogallala YMCA, said last week’s “Try the Y Day” event was a success despite extremely cold weather.

“We did about 15 to 20 memberships and I would say half of those were new members and half were renewals that day,” Ewert said.

While evening class attendance was lighter than expected due to the cold, Ewert said the event still achieved its main goal: introducing new people to the facility.

“There were so many new faces that I had never seen, and that was the plan for this — to get new people in, get them interested and get them comfortable coming in,” she said.

Personal training also saw a boost, with around five new clients signing up. Ewert said trainer Amber was busy with consultations throughout the day.

“That alone made the day a success,” she said.

The YMCA is also adding two new Silver Sneakers classes beginning next week. The classes are designed for beginners, people returning to exercise after a long break, or those recovering from illness or injury.

One class, Silver Sneakers Classic, will focus on low-impact strength training using weights, bands and balls. The second is a chair yoga class. Both will be led by instructor Kim.

Ewert said the classes are meant to help people ease back into physical activity.

“You should never just think, ‘I took this many months off, I’m going to jump right back into where I started,’ because that does not happen,” she said.

Youth basketball is also getting underway, with coaches now contacting families. Games are scheduled to begin February 22.

In addition, the YMCA has launched a Gratitude Miles Challenge. Members can track the miles they walk, run, bike or swim, and write something they’re grateful for on a board in the lobby.

“It’s a good way to remind people that we should be thankful for our health and for our families, and just keep them motivated to continue moving,” Ewert said.

A larger 50-mile challenge is also planned for runners, bikers and swimmers. The first participant in each category to reach 50 miles will receive a prize. Lifters can participate through a separate challenge based on combined weight totals from bench press, deadlift and squat.

Participants must submit videos of their lifts for verification, and winners will be recognized by gender and age groups.

One of the most anticipated additions is indoor pickleball. The YMCA will be adding pickleball court lines to its basketball court, allowing community members to play throughout the winter.

“We’re going to set up times where people can come in and play pickleball here at the Y,” Ewert said.

She noted that many residents currently travel to nearby communities for indoor pickleball, and this will provide a closer option.

Pickleball’s growing popularity reflects the YMCA’s mission of community engagement, something Ewert says is central to the organization’s identity.

“Being able to work for people who want to build our community and do things for our youth in town and just build those relationships with everyone that comes in the door is pretty special,” she said.

Ewert said the growth at the Ogallala YMCA over the past year has been significant, with expanded programs and increased participation.

“Sometimes change is growing pain, but I can say this has been painless for change,” she said.

Ogallala YMCA Sees Membership Boost, Announces New Classes and Fitness Challenges

Property to Be Renamed Great River Casino Resort &amp; FunCity

RIVERSIDE, IOWA — Elite Casino Resorts finalizes the successful acquisition of Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity Resort in Burlington, Iowa, effective today. Catfish Bend Casino &amp; FunCity Resort officially join the Elite Casino Resorts family. Elite plans to quickly begin transitioning to its new name, Great River Casino Resort &amp; FunCity.

The new name reflects the deep connection between Burlington, the Mississippi River and the history of gaming and riverfront entertainment in Iowa. Long before gaming expanded inland, river communities like Burlington played a central role in shaping the state’s gaming industry and serving as gathering places for commerce, travel and entertainment.

“The Mississippi River has always mattered here,” said Dan Kehl, Chief Executive Officer of Elite Casino Resorts. “It shaped this city, the region and played an important role in the early days of gaming in Iowa. The name Great River Casino Resort &amp; FunCity is about honoring that history and the people who call Southeast Iowa home.”

“Randy Winegard and Gary Hoyer were instrumental in keeping riverboat gaming afloat in the early 1990’s and have been great leaders for Catfish Bend and the southeast Iowa community. We look forward to maintaining and building on their legacy”, adds Kehl. “We look forward to working closely with local leaders, organizations and longtime partners as the property transitions to Great River Casino &amp; Resort &amp; FunCity and continues to serve as a destination for entertainment, hospitality and community engagement.”

With this acquisition, Elite Casino Resorts owns and operates seven Midwest casino resorts and adds 500 new team members growing to over 3,000 gaming hospitality professionals company-wide. The Burlington property joins Elite’s expanding portfolio, which includes Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort in Riverside, Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport, Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort in Larchwood, Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in southern Illinois, Grand Island Casino Resort, and the Lake Mac Casino Resort and Racetrack in Ogallala, Nebraska. 

Innovation Capital, LLC acted as executive financial advisor to Great River Entertainment. Fehseke &amp; Gray Law Offices acted as legal counsel to GRE, Lane &amp; Waterman LLP acted as legal counsel to Elite Casino Resorts.

Elite Casino Resorts is a leading regional gaming operator in the Midwest and a privately-owned U.S. company known for premier casino resort destinations, first-class guest service and amenities, great entertainment, and exceptional food. With a strong commitment to community service, Elite was recognized as the Iowa Character Counts 2024 Partner of the Year. Elite Casino Resorts will now operate seven casino resorts: Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort, located just south of Iowa City, IA; Rhythm City Casino Resort, located in Davenport, IA; Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort, located in Larchwood, IA, just minutes from Sioux Falls, SD; Grand Island Casino Resortlocated in Grand Island, Nebraska and Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort, in Carterville, Illinois IL Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack in Ogallala, NE and Catfish Bend Casino &amp; FunCity Resort in Burlington, Iowa.

Elite Casino Resorts Acquires Catfish Bend Casino & FunCity Resort

The Hot Sheets: January 28, 2026

A total of 138 students qualified for the President’s List during the 2025 fall semester at Mid-Plains Community College.

To make the list, each student had to complete 12 or more applicable credit hours in college-level courses and maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.9 or greater on a 4.0 scale.

In addition, a total of 183 students qualified for the Mid-Plains Community College Dean’s List during the 2025 fall semester.

To make the list, students had to complete 12 or more applicable credit hours of college-level courses and maintain an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 – 3.89 on a 4.0 scale.

Alliance – Hallie Schneider, Hannah Schneider

Broken Bow – Quincy Burnett, Jenna Claflin, Madden Kleeb

Chappell – Maddi Cheleen, Isabelle Reichman

Hershey – Hannah Hendricks, Kristyn Woolley

Imperial – Jesus Gamboa, Landree McNair, Krayton Paisley, Navy Smith

McCook – Ryann Bethell, Jackson Blomstedt, Esperanza Bueno, Bailee Fawver, Bella Giacalone, Malia Hilker, Evan Mai, Addy Neal, Maceo Nielsen, Haylee Schlegel, Hannah Thompson

North Platte – Kenzie Adams, Hayden Albertson, Emilee Allen, Chloe Bear Killer, Isaac Bertschinger, Emilee Brown, Jocelyn Corbett, Kenedi Creasman, Olivia Dobesh, Josie Douglas, Ava Einspahr, Amelia Field, Iryana Frahm, Ava Franzen, Trey Furmanski, Kristina Gordon, Savanna Gove, Molly Jorgensen, Kate Kautz, Hannah Kelley, Shawn Kelley, Lilah Krupicka, Quintin Lawson, Ashlynn Leibhart, Faythe Lindsey, Kaylee Lundgreen, Collin Manning, Ricky Martinez, Kori McClain, Don Mina, Rylee Murrish, Jamie Murtaugh, MaKenna Nelson, Dimitri Pettit, Chance Ragle, Connor Robertson, Isabelle Scholz, Susan Shepard, Eban Spratt, Carter Stewart, Tenni Still, Gianna Tejral, Sutton Tickle, Joselyn Torske, Ava Welch, Samantha Winscot, Jared Wullschleger, Dany Zheng

Ogallala – Jenna McBride, Evan Richter, Jace Richter

Palisade – Ryleigh McCrumb, Grayden Sutherland

Paxton – Noah Coppersmith, Tanner Hebblethwaite

Sutherland – Devin Giesselmann, Lena Reeves

Berthoud – Brooke Nelsen, Charlee Russick

Sterling – Audrey Reeves, Andrew Wright

Olivia Pollon, Dennis Rocha, Santiago Rodriguez, Hayley Smith

Culbertson – Darin Neben, Caleb Wilkinson, Jenna Wilkinson

Gothenburg – Dustin Cartmill, Cameron Wenger

MPCC announces Fall 2025 President's and Dean's Lists

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) will be offering Vaccines for Children at public clinics in February. Anyone two months of age and older are invited to get their vaccinations. Flu shots will still be available for anyone 6 months of age and older. Flu (influenza) is circulating throughout the health district, and almost 100 people have gone to the emergency room for influenza so far this flu season. Getting a flu shot now will provide protection for the rest of time flu is going around. It is never too late to get a flu shot.

Curtis&nbsp;– Monday, February 9th, 4:30-5:30 pm at Medicine Valley High School.

Imperial&nbsp;– Wednesday, February 18th, 4:00-6:00 pm Mountain Time at Chase County Clinic.

Ogallala&nbsp;– by appointment only, based upon the nurse availability, at 10 N Spruce St, Suite B.

McCook&nbsp;–&nbsp;daily Monday-Friday, 8:00-4:00 pm based upon the nurse availability, at 404 West 10th Street (one block north of Arby’s).

Other locations:&nbsp;check with your local healthcare provider or pharmacy.

We encourage those interested in vaccination to call to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, but priority will be given to those with a scheduled appointment.

Shingles is a painful illness caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles. Shingles can cause burning pain, blisters, fever, and in some cases long-lasting nerve pain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults&nbsp;50 years and older&nbsp;get the shingles vaccine, called&nbsp;Shingrix, even if they have had shingles before or do not remember having chickenpox. If you had two doses of the older Zostavax vaccine, you are still eligible to receive the Shingrix vaccine.

The Shingrix vaccine is given in&nbsp;two doses,&nbsp;2 to 6 months apart, and is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. Getting vaccinated can help protect your health and reduce missed work, medical visits, and long-term pain. Talk with your healthcare provider, pharmacist or SWNPHD to see if the shingles vaccine is right for you and to schedule your appointment today.

Vaccines for Children is&nbsp;funded in whole with federal and DHHS funds.&nbsp;Children with no insurance, under-insured, Medicaid, Native American or Native Alaskan qualify for state-funded vaccine. Adults who are uninsured or under-insured may also qualify for state funded vaccine. Call the office for qualifications at 308-345-4223. Only state-funded vaccines are available at the Imperial location. Both state- funded and private vaccine will be offered at all other clinics.&nbsp; Insurance billing and cash or credit card payment options are available to those who do not qualify for the state-funded vaccine.

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;The website swhealth.ne.gov contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, promote and protect health.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and You Tube.

SWNPHD: Vaccines for Children Public Clinics in February

HERSHEY, Neb. — Hershey Public Schools, in partnership with Public School Proud, has released a new video highlighting the district’s Digital Citizenship Initiative, which focuses on helping students and families make safe, respectful, and responsible choices online.

The initiative emphasizes the lasting impact of online behavior, reminding students that posts, comments, screenshots, and tags can follow them long after they are shared.

The video features voices from across the Hershey school community, including Superintendent Jane Davis, Director of Teaching and Learning Sarah Ostmeyer, students Demi DaMoude and Cole Murdock, both juniors, sixth-grade student Kyler Klein, parent Mandy Abbott, and school board president Steve Koch.

Hershey’s Digital Citizenship Initiative is built around six core principles designed to help students manage their digital footprint. Those principles include finding balance in digital use, respecting privacy, understanding the impact of words and actions, defining personal identity, practicing kindness and courage, and being critical thinkers and creators online.

According to district officials, the initiative grew out of a Board of Education goal-setting process that addressed increasing concerns over student cell phone use, social media behavior, and online safety.

“We want students to understand that what they do online impacts real people,” said Superintendent Jane Davis. “Our goal is to help them make choices that show respect, protect privacy, and build a positive digital footprint.”

Koch said the effort helps connect schools and families around a shared message.

“When we support students in learning responsible online habits, we strengthen our school culture and our community,” he said.

As part of the initiative, Hershey Public Schools shares weekly digital citizenship reminders through school communications, digital signage, and social media. The district also provides resources and conversation starters for parents to encourage discussions at home.

The Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association, in partnership with A.Plum Creative, has shared information about Hershey’s approach with member districts interested in implementing similar programs. The video is available on the Public School Proud website.

Watch the video on Public Schools Proud:<a href="https://publicschoolproudnebraska.org/story/jane-davis-hershey-public-school-superintendant/?color=1">&nbsp;https://publicschoolproudnebraska.org/story/jane-davis-hershey-public-school-superintendant/?color=1</a>

Hershey Public Schools Highlights Digital Citizenship Initiative in New Video

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, to discuss a difficult away weekend to Lamar, where the Knights fell 63-51.&nbsp;

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #10 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's 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 a successful three-game homestand against Region 9 South opponents.&nbsp;

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #13 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's 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 an the first back-to-back of 2026 and what it meant for team to see the hard work starting to pay off.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #9 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview with Ogallala City Manager Kevin Wilkins on our Kubota Podcast

Ogallala City Council Approves Board Appointments, Infrastructure Plans, and Airport Updates

OGALLALA — The Ogallala City Council kicked off 2026 by approving appointments to multiple city boards, discussing ongoing infrastructure projects, and reviewing plans for airport improvements at Monday night’s meeting.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins highlighted several new board appointments, including the city’s newly formed Historic Preservation Commission. 

“Ogallala is now one of 12 certified local governments with the Nebraska Historic Preservation Commission,” Wilkins said. Barb Jeffries was appointed to a two-year term, and Cody Quinn will serve three years.

 The commission plans to meet January 27, with Nebraska State Historical Preservation Director Kelly Bacon attending to discuss potential updates to the Historic Overlay at Ogallala Middle School.

Additional appointments included Ray Diaz and Jordan Namath to three-year terms on the Planning and Zoning Commission and Richard Kester to the Tree Board. Wilkins encouraged residents interested in trees to apply for the remaining openings.

The council also reviewed updates from the Ogallala YMCA, which has seen growing participation in programs and the city’s pool. Wilkins said the pool’s attendance has “probably tripled” under new management.

 “If you’re going to spend the money, you want to see people using it,” he said. Officials are exploring the possibility of forming a local swim team and expanding youth programming.

Infrastructure needs were also a major topic, including the cost of repairs following a lift station failure on the south side of town. Wilkins explained that the pumps were “probably undersized for the job” and that both failed simultaneously, leading to an emergency discharge of wastewater into a contained area of the river. 

He added, “Fortunately, there was a valve on it, so we got that fixed,” and the city expects the repairs to cost about $200,000.

At the airport, council members approved issuing a request for proposals for a fixed-base operator at Serial Field. Wilkins said the goal is to increase aviation-related business and streamline fuel sales. 

“We would really just like to have more activity at that airport,” he said. Plans include $8 million in runway improvements and additional hangar capacity.

The council also discussed long-term street and drainage projects, including a proposed half-cent infrastructure sales tax aimed at funding repairs while reducing property tax burdens. 

Wilkins said, “Once a lot of your costs are in mobilizing and engineering, you can get some efficiencies. That’s the kind of momentum we need within the community.”

City officials plan to implement online permitting through the Planning and Building Department by February 9 to streamline applications for residents and businesses. 

Wilkins concluded, “We’re just going to keep rocking and rolling in the City of Ogallala.”

🎙️Ogallala City Council Moves Forward on Boards, Infrastructure, and Airport Plans

Listen to the full interview with Lane Anderson on our Kubota Podcast

Keith County, Neb. - Keith County Commissioner Lane Anderson shared updates from the county’s January 14 meeting during a recent radio interview, outlining several ongoing projects and administrative actions.

Among the key items discussed were the setting of county elected official salaries and the county’s insurance renewal process. The board also completed its annual reorganization, with Corey Crandall continuing as chairman of the Keith County Board of Commissioners.

Commissioners reviewed year-end reports and discussed creating a nuisance application process that could be used when applying for nuisance-related grants. The county highway department completed its annual fuel bids and recently purchased a scraper and disc in an effort to improve county road maintenance.

Anderson also noted recent personnel changes. Longtime Keith County employee Lori Hood retired after 40 years of service. Commissioners appointed J.D. Cartwright to fill her role as the county’s new Emergency Operations Center director.

Additional updates included ongoing EMS-related discussions, current jail population numbers, and road conditions impacted by dry winter weather. Anderson said he plans to provide regular monthly updates moving forward and confirmed he will be running for re-election this year.

🎙️Keith County Commissioners January 14 Update

On today's 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 an encouraging performance in the first game back from winter break against McCook Community College and what they need to do going forward to continue this form.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #8 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to talk about the positive impact last Saturday's victory over McCook Community College had on the team so far. Also, what to expect from the team going forward as region play begins.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #12 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Former CNN anchor arrested after protest that disrupted church service

District judge does not rule on temporary injunction with secretary of state expected to share voter records Feb. 12

By Erin Bamer <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A public advocacy nonprofit argued Thursday that the federal government must comply with Nebraska statutes when requesting the state’s voter records.

Lancaster County District Court Judge Lori Maret heard arguments from Common Cause Nebraska and the state in the group’s legal challenge to the U.S. Department of Justice requesting voter registration data from all 50 states.

Common Cause&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/09/22/voting-advocacy-group-sues-to-block-nebraska-from-giving-voter-data-to-feds/">seeks an injunction</a>&nbsp;to prevent Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen from sharing the data Feb. 12, which Evnen has stated his intention to do. In turn, the state has filed a motion to dismiss the case.

Maret issued no immediate ruling after Thursday’s hearing, saying she would take the arguments from both sides under advisement.

Federal officials have asked states for names, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers and the last four digits of voters’ Social Security numbers, saying they want the information to ensure accurate voter registration rolls.

Common Cause asked the court to find that the DOJ request violates Nebraska law protecting data privacy. Its lawsuit asks the court to prohibit the Secretary of State from providing the voter data or to limit the types of data shared with the DOJ.

The Justice Department has requested voter data from 44 states and Washington, D.C. so far, with plans to ask for that information from all 50 states. A few GOP states have declined or not responded, citing privacy concerns, and a majority of Democratic-run states have refused to do so.

Critics have questioned the safety of letting any presidential administration consolidate state voter data in one place. The federal government has sued more than 20 states and the District of Columbia for not complying.

Recently, the DOJ asked&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/01/24/us/pam-bondi-walz-doc.html" target="_blank">Minnesota</a>&nbsp;to hand over its voter rolls as part of a federal offer to reduce the presence of&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/29/homan-im-staying-til-the-problem-is-gone/" target="_blank">thousands of immigrants in the state.</a>

Solicitor General Cody Barnett, representing Nebraska in Thursday’s case, mentioned the federal lawsuits in arguing that the Common Cause lawsuit should be dismissed. He argued that all indispensable parties should be present, and the federal government qualifies as one because it has an “obvious stake” in the case.

“They have a seat at this table, and yet plaintiffs have not brought them into this lawsuit,” Barnett said.

Daniel Gutman, an attorney representing Common Cause, countered that Nebraska law offers federal officials no special rights when it comes to accessing private information, so he does not believe that the federal government is a necessary party.

The Justice Department initially sent a letter to Nebraska’s secretary of state last year and set a Sept. 22 deadline to provide the data. Evnen has not yet provided the data due to the lawsuit, but he has said he intends to release Nebraska’s voter file to the federal government Feb. 12 “unless the court orders otherwise.”

Common Cause filed paperwork seeking a temporary restraining order over concerns that the court might not rule before the secretary releases the data.

Gutman said the federal government doesn’t have access to Nebraska’s voter information under the U.S. Constitution, which gives states the authority to administer elections. Because of this, he argued that to receive such information, federal officials must comply with Nebraska law, and they have not.

According to Nebraska’s election statutes, Gutman said, voter files are considered a public record, and thus can be inspected by members of the public. State officials can even get copies of the records under specific circumstances.

However, state law also says public voter information cannot include confidential information, including digital signatures, Gutman said. The DOJ has asked for an unredacted file of Nebraska’s voter rolls, which Gutman argued would violate state statute.

Barnett said though states administer elections, federal agencies still play a role. He said the federal government has a bevy of information and resources that can help states with their election systems.

Barnett argued Common Cause failed to prove a “concrete injury” to warrant an injunction, and said its requested relief was too broad. He argued the nonprofit could only request an injunction to prevent Evnen from releasing data pertaining to specific individuals — like the members of Common Cause itself — but not all voters in the state.

He further argued that there are multiple examples of federal law that prove the sharing of voter data is legally sound, particularly the Civil Rights Act of 1960. In it, Barnett said the U.S. Attorney General has the right to inspect records within 22 months of a federal election.

Barnett described several of the arguments Common Cause made in court documents as “speculative,” including allegations that the DOJ may share voter information to third parties. Siding with this argument would ignore the “presumption of good faith” that he said is usually afforded to government agencies throughout Nebraska’s legal history.

“The U.S. DOJ maintains that it will maintain the registry in accordance with all the privacy statutes that the federal government has enacted and that state law respects,” Barnett said. “And there’s no reason to doubt the government’s word on that point.”

This isn’t the first time President Donland Trump has asked for Nebraska’s voter rolls.

The Trump administration made a similar request to then-Secretary of State John Gale in 2017. Gale declined to turn over Nebraska’s full voter information, because he argued doing so wouldn’t comply with state law. He also expressed concerns about data privacy.

A public and more limited version of Nebraska’s voter file, including names and addresses, is available for a fee. Registered voters can request that the state withhold their phone numbers and email addresses.

Evnen’s intention to release the data led the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/01/09/dnc-threatens-to-sue-nebraska-over-potential-deal-to-remove-voters-flagged-by-feds/">Democratic National Committee to threaten to sue Nebraska</a>&nbsp;over any potential agreement with the Justice Department requiring election officials to remove allegedly ineligible voters the federal government identifies during federal reviews of state voter rolls.

The letter, sent earlier this month, says the DNC wants to “ensure” the state and secretary of state are aware of federal constraints on voter registration list maintenance and wants the state not to pursue any “unlawful removals from its official list of eligible voters in elections for federal office.”

Evnen described the letter as “grandstanding.”

“I have always been proactive in securing our elections … we won’t be pressured by the DNC, Common Cause, or anyone else into compromising the integrity of our voter registration list maintenance process,” he said.

The latest DOJ move is another issue for Evnen to balance as he seeks reelection in 2026. He is trying to defend as secure the state’s elections that his office administers and respond to the concerns of some Republicans and Trump over election integrity since the 2020 presidential election, a national framing that some election experts have warned could undermine public trust.

Examiner political reporter Juan Salinas II contributed to this report.

Court hears lawsuit seeking to stop Nebraska from releasing voter data to federal government

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>-

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate was unable to advance a funding package Thursday, pushing the federal government closer to a partial shutdown as Democrats press for restrictions on immigration enforcement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1192/vote_119_2_00013.htm" target="_blank">The 45-55 vote&nbsp;</a>needed at least 60 senators to agree to move forward with debate on the six appropriations bills that have been bundled together ahead of a Friday midnight deadline.&nbsp;

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said shortly before the vote that he’s optimistic Democrats and President Donald Trump can broker some sort of agreement that avoids a shutdown. The package’s progress was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/deadly-shooting-minneapolis-could-lead-partial-government-shutdown-over-ice-funding" target="_blank">thrown into doubt</a>&nbsp;after the deadly shooting of a second U.S. citizen by immigration agents in Minneapolis on Saturday.

“I’ll let the White House speak for themselves. But there have been very constructive discussions and conversations I’ve been part of, and so let’s just say I’m hopeful,” Thune said. “But I don’t want to get the cart ahead of the horse.”

That deal would likely swap out the full-year funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security and replace it with a brief stopgap spending measure, giving lawmakers and the administration more time to broker a bipartisan deal.

The House would need to approve any changes to the package before it could head to Trump for his signature, which could lead to a funding lapse over the weekend and into Monday when that chamber is scheduled to return from a recess.&nbsp;

Thune said the changes to immigration enforcement that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., detailed earlier this week will not be included in this government funding package, but could be taken up in a bill later this year.&nbsp;

Local

Region

Sports

Podcasts