The Sandhills Task Force is now accepting applications for the 2026 season of Sandhills Ranch Internships. This paid, three-month summer-long internship includes room and partial board as well as additional paid educational opportunities. Explore a career in agriculture through hands-on experiences in ranching, livestock production, and rangeland management. This is an excellent opportunity to gain skills and knowledge that can open doors to future careers in agriculture while building meaningful relationships.

The Sandhills Task Force is proud to partner with several skilled ranchers in the Nebraska Sandhills to offer this excellent internship opportunity. We seek candidates who are passionate about agriculture, have a strong interest in ranching and range management, and are eager to learn. Eligible applicants must be at least 19 years old at the start of the internship. The internship will provide hands-on experience in daily ranch operations, direct mentorship from experienced ranchers, and practical training in cattle care, stewardship, and ranch management, as offered by the host ranch. We welcome applications from all individuals, students, non-students, and veterans.

To learn more and to apply, visit www.sandhillstaskforce.org/ranch-internship. Deadline to apply for 2026 Sandhills Ranch Internships is January 5, 2026. For questions, please contact KyLee at 308-340-2781 or kylee@sandhillstaskforce.org.

Introducing the brand-new Sandhills Ranch Apprenticeship - a nine-month paid opportunity launching this year. From March through November, Connealy Angus will welcome an apprentice ready to gain hands-on ranching experience, strengthen skills, deepen knowledge of livestock production, and grow in confidence throughout the seasons.

Ideal candidates are dependable, self-motivated individuals who have a genuine interest in livestock production and are prepared for the rewarding challenges of a full-time ranching lifestyle. This apprenticeship position includes housing, partial board, and additional paid-for educational opportunities. 

To learn more and to apply, visit www.sandhillstaskforce.org/ranch-apprenticeship. The deadline to apply for the 2026 Apprenticeship is December 15th, 2025. 

For questions, please contact KyLee at 308-340-2781 or kylee@sandhillstaskforce.org.

The Sandhills Task Force will serve as a facilitator to help match interns and apprentices with ranchers. The Sandhills Task Force will support the relationship in several ways, but ultimately, the relationship is between the intern/apprentice and the host ranch. Partial funding is provided by the Nebraska Environmental Trust and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Spread the word to family, friends, and anyone who may be interested in these exciting opportunities with the Sandhills Ranch Internship and Apprenticeship Programs!

2026 Sandhills Ranch Internship Program & the NEW Sandhills Ranch Apprenticeship

Kristopher Brock Whisler, 32, North Platte &amp; Alieha Marie Salisbury, 25, North Platte

Michael Ben Torres, 64, North Platte &amp; Misti Dawn McEntire, 55, North Platte

Brian David Steffes, 32, North Platte &amp; Samantha Marie Kennedy, 30, North Platte

Yolsen Presendieu, 28, North Platte &amp; Assafina Germain, 24, North Platte

William Riley Merritt, 39, North Platte &amp; Jasmine Jae Miller, 26, North Platte

Jason Lewis Cronin, 47, North Platte &amp; Melissa Kaye White, 53, North Platte

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses (Week of October 27, 2025)

North Platte, Neb. - The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners will meet Monday morning, November 3, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be streamed live on YouTube.

The board will begin with prayer and approval of minutes from the October 27 meeting before reviewing claims and treasurer’s receipts.

At 9:15 a.m., commissioners will recess and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to approve minutes from the previous equalization meeting, consider certificates of correction and refunds submitted by the County Assessor, and review a motor vehicle tax exemption application from the County Treasurer.

Following the Equalization session, the board will return to regular business at 9:25 a.m. to recognize Annette Shafer from Lincoln County Court, who was named the 2025 Outstanding Clerk Magistrate.

At 9:30 a.m., commissioners will honor several county employees for their service milestones:

At 9:45 a.m., the board will discuss and consider a resolution outlining rules and regulations for Lincoln County Board meetings.

If necessary, commissioners may enter closed session to discuss pending or imminent litigation, real estate matters, security planning, or personnel evaluations to prevent needless injury to reputation.

The meeting will conclude with reports from elected officials, department heads, and committee updates from the Lincoln County Commissioners.

Meeting details and the full agenda are available at <a href="https://www.lincolncountyne.gov">www.lincolncountyne.gov</a>.

Lincoln County Commissioners to Recognize Employees, Discuss Meeting Rules Monday

The Hot Sheets: November 2, 2025

Listen to the full interview with Will Peer on the Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb - The 2025 Big Idea North Platte competition brought together creative and community-minded entrepreneurs to share their ideas and compete for top honors. Hosted by the North Platte Young Professionals, the annual event gives local innovators the opportunity to pitch their business concepts and gain support to bring them to life.

This year’s Community Category winner was Will Peer with The Peers Golf Experience, a mobile golf simulator designed to bring the game anywhere—from backyard gatherings to corporate events. Peer, who has spent much of his life in the golf industry, said he’s followed similar business models across the country and wanted to bring something like that to central Nebraska. 

“If it works in a warm-weather climate, it should be able to work here too,” he said, adding that the idea offers a fun, accessible way for people to enjoy golf while supporting player development for youth and high school programs.

Peer said the biggest challenge was the financial risk of starting something new, but the process of building the business has been rewarding. 

“Getting it started has been the most rewarding part,” he said. “There have always been ideas, but none of them have left the ground until this one.” 

He credited his family, mentors, and local business professionals for their support and said he hopes to continue expanding the Peers Golf Experience to serve more communities across Nebraska.

Other winners recognized during the event include Chloe Bear Killer with Sweet Blossoms Cupcakes in second place and Becky Pearson with Pivot Point Rehab in third place in the Community Category.

In the Youth Category, AJ Uecker with Prayer Packages took first place, followed by Katie Titus with Forever Flowers in second and Addison Hanna with Golden Hour Media in third.

Peer encouraged others who are considering entering Big Idea next year to take a chance and get started early. 

“You don’t have to wait until you win or even enter Big Idea,” he said. “Just start. That makes the process easier.”

The Big Idea competition continues to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship in the region, inspiring both youth and adults to turn their ideas into reality.

🎙️Peers Golf Experience Takes Top Honors at Big Idea North Platte

The Hot Sheets: November 1, 2025

By Allison Peck / North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — As families get ready for a night of trick-or-treating, local law enforcement agencies are reminding everyone to keep safety a top priority — both on foot and behind the wheel.

The North Platte Police Department says additional officers will be on patrol throughout Halloween night, focusing on traffic violations and impaired drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), from 2019 to 2023, 176 people were killed in crashes involving a drunk driver, including 30 pedestrians.

“If your plans for this Halloween include a potion involving alcohol or drugs, make plans for a sober ride home,” police said in a statement.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office also shared safety reminders for parents and drivers. If children are trick-or-treating without an adult, families are encouraged to go over a familiar route beforehand, talk through common safety situations such as avoiding rides from strangers, and remind children to stay with their group at all times.

The Sheriff’s Office is also urging drivers to slow down and stay alert for children crossing the street, especially in neighborhoods and residential areas. Motorists are asked to be cautious when pulling into driveways and alleyways and to watch for trick-or-treaters wearing dark costumes.

Both agencies are reminding drivers to plan a sober ride home and to help keep neighborhoods safe for everyone celebrating this Halloween.

Local Law Enforcement Remind Families and Drivers to Stay Safe This Halloween

The Hot Sheets: October 31, 2025

The Hot Sheets: October 30, 2025

North Platte, Neb - The annual Big Idea North Platte business pitch event is back, shining a spotlight on innovation and entrepreneurship in our community on Wednesday, October 29,  2025. The evening kicks off at 5 p.m. with a social hour at Venue 304, 304 E. 5th St., giving attendees a chance to mingle and network, followed by live pitch presentations starting at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

This year’s competition is split into two categories: the Community stream for adult entrepreneurs and the Youth stream for up‑and‑coming student innovators. More than 40 submissions were received from across North Platte and the surrounding region. Eight finalists will compete in the Community category: Will Peers, Laureesa Gillock, David Dorwart, Kevin Wood, Kirsten Parker, Beck Pearson, Chloe Bear Killer, and Ryan Araujo. In the Youth category, nine finalists will take the stage: Alexis Nelson, Hope Dodson, A.J. Uecker, Addison Hanna, Ryker Atkins, Katie Titus, Hayden Zogg, Corrine Hammond, and Elise Eickhoff.

Prize money and scholarships are on the line for both categories. In the Community stream, first place will earn $8,000, second place $4,000, and third $2,900. In the Youth stream, first place receives $2,000, second $1,000, and third $500, with additional dual‑credit book and tuition awards available through Mid Plains Community College for top youth finalists.

The event offers more than just competition. It provides a platform for local entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas, receive feedback from a live audience and a panel of judges, and gain visibility in the community. It also fosters networking among innovators, supporters, and business‑community members, creating connections that could spark future ventures. Attendees can expect a lively evening with food trucks on site, a cash bar, and the excitement of seeing fresh business ideas come to life. From the initial field of applicants, judges will narrow the finalists down, and the audience will even have the opportunity to help decide the winners.

Big Idea North Platte is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of creativity, ambition, and community spirit. Whether you’re supporting a friend, scouting local talent, or just looking for a fun, inspiring evening, this event is a chance to experience innovation in action and witness the next wave of business ideas that could shape North Platte’s future.

2025 “Big Idea North Platte” — A Launchpad for Innovation in North Platte

Lincoln, Neb. (Oct. 28, 2025)&nbsp;– The HALT Human Trafficking Fund has awarded its second round of grants to the&nbsp;<a>Dawson County Sheriff’s Office</a>, the Sandhills Crisis Intervention Program and the&nbsp;<a>Set Me Free Project</a>. These grants will support projects aimed at preventing human trafficking in Nebraska.

The Dawson County Sheriff's Office will implement technology enhancements to strengthen anti-trafficking efforts through increased law enforcement capabilities. The Dawson County Sheriff's Office serves a critical transportation corridor where thousands of people pass through on I-80 daily, making advanced technology essential for identifying and preventing human trafficking.

The Sandhills Crisis Intervention Program will host a trafficking survivor and forensic nurse to deliver educational presentations aimed at preventing human trafficking. The program will train students, teachers, parents, community members and law enforcement to identify red flags, grooming techniques and trafficking indicators. The Sandhills Crisis Intervention Program works to prevent and eliminate interpersonal and family violence in Arthur, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Keith and Perkins Counties.

The Set Me Free Project will develop the READY to Stand Empower Toolkit, a secure, trauma-informed digital platform that expands the organization's human trafficking prevention curriculum. The platform will deliver customized learning about healthy relationships, digital safety and emotional well-being through innovative technology and evidence-informed instructional design. The Set Me Free Project is dedicated to stopping human trafficking before it starts through prevention education for all ages.

"These grants will strengthen critical efforts to prevent human trafficking across our state," said Richard Baier, president and CEO of the Nebraska Bankers Association. "We're proud to support organizations that are protecting vulnerable Nebraskans in communities throughout our state."

Human trafficking occurs statewide in Nebraska communities of all sizes. The Nebraska Attorney General's Human Trafficking Task Force reported calls to the Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline from every corner of the state. If you suspect human trafficking, call the Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline at 833-PLS-LOOK (833-757-5665).&nbsp;

If you are a victim or need help, call or text for confidential, 24/7 assistance. The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available in more than 200 languages. Call 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 (BeFree).

The HALT Human Trafficking Fund was established in 2024 by the Nebraska banking industry and is supported by community stakeholders. Grants are awarded to Nebraska-based nonprofits, government entities and educational institutions for projects that provide education, advance data analysis or leverage technology to prevent trafficking. The next grant cycle will open in spring 2026. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://haltfund.org/">haltfund.org</a>&nbsp;for more information.

HALT Human Trafficking Fund Awards Grants to Three Nebraska Organizations

It's gameday everyone! 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 the opening weekend of action vs Laramie County Community College and Eastern Wyoming Community College.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #4 2025 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 the team's journey this preseason and where the most growth has been shown. Plus, getting you prepared for the first regular season games of 2025, beginning on Friday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #3 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview recap of October meetings with Commissioner Kent Weems.

North Platte, Neb - Lincoln County Commissioners met Monday, October 27, to address key county operations, public safety, and community planning matters.

Emergency Management Vehicle Replacement


The board approved the purchase of a used pickup for Region 51 Emergency Management. Commissioner Kent Weems explained the need: “This vehicle is a secondary unit for responding to wildfires, hazardous material incidents, and other emergencies. It’s essential for transporting volunteers, materials, and water to fire crews.”

The vehicle, purchased for $24,000 using $8,000 from an insurance settlement and $16,000 from the emergency management budget, replaced one that had been totaled in a winter accident. Weems noted, “We were able to get this under budget, and it didn’t require a formal bid. It’s a good deal for the county and keeps our response capabilities strong.”

Region 51 provided a quarterly report highlighting ongoing training and collaboration with local fire departments, including federally funded HAZMAT programs. Funding delays due to the federal government shutdown were noted, but Weems reassured the board: “Even though reimbursements are delayed, operations continue, and we’re ready to respond to any emergencies.”

The commissioners also discussed a courthouse-focused public safety exercise scheduled for January. “This is about proactive preparedness,” Weems said. “Even if there isn’t an immediate threat, we want staff to know how to respond if something happens.”

The board addressed a gap in the Text My Gov alert system, which currently does not automatically share controlled burn notifications from smaller fire departments. Weems explained, “We want residents to have timely information on all controlled burns, not just the big ones. We’re working to expand the system to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.”

Weems clarified a longstanding concern regarding an injured dog at the Tenderhearts Veterinary Center. “The county wasn’t involved in this incident. There was some miscommunication, but the owner has been located, and we’re updating our agreements to prevent confusion in the future,” he said.

Conditional Use Permit for Family Cemetery


Finally, the board approved a conditional use permit for a family cemetery east of North Platte. Weems emphasized the importance of careful planning: “We want to make sure this cemetery is protected for future generations. Access, care, and protections from livestock are all key considerations.”

The October 27 meeting highlighted the commissioners’ ongoing focus on public safety, responsible budgeting, and community planning.

🎙️Lincoln County Commissioners Approve Vehicle Purchase, Public Safety Initiatives, and Conditional Use Permit 

OGALLALA, NEB - As Nebraska’s upland hunting season begins, a local conservation partnership is opening more land for public access while boosting the rural economy across western Nebraska.

Addie Piernicky, Coordinating Wildlife Biologist with&nbsp;Pheasants Forever, joined&nbsp;Sandhill Spotlight&nbsp;this week to discuss the&nbsp;Nebraska Community Access Partnership (NCAP)&nbsp;— a collaboration between Pheasants Forever, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, OnX, and the Keith County Chamber of Commerce.

“This program provides a one-time bonus for individuals who enroll land for public hunting access on top of their regular Open Fields and Waters payments,” Piernicky said. “It’s been really exciting — we’ve been able to spend nearly $900,000 on public access in just 18 months.”

The funding, made possible through an&nbsp;$800,000 Nebraska Environmental Trust grant, helps landowners earn additional income while providing hunters more opportunities. Participating landowners can receive&nbsp;$25 per acre for CRP ground&nbsp;and&nbsp;$10 per acre for rangeland&nbsp;as a one-time bonus, along with annual Open Fields and Waters payments that range depending on habitat quality.

For some property owners, Piernicky said, the payments can make a real difference.

“In some cases, it might even cover your property taxes,” she said. “If there’s a section of land you’re not using but has good habitat, it can be a great revenue source.”

Currently, the program is focused in&nbsp;Keith, Garden, Deuel, and Arthur Counties, with secondary areas including&nbsp;Lincoln, Morrill, Perkins, Kimball, and Cheyenne Counties. Piernicky said Pheasants Forever hopes to expand the program farther west after submitting a new grant application earlier this year.

So far in 2025, the group has enrolled&nbsp;57,000 acres&nbsp;in total, including&nbsp;14,000 acres added this year&nbsp;— about half of which are new to public access.

To address landowner concerns, Piernicky emphasized that participants are protected by the&nbsp;Nebraska Recreational Liability Act, which shields them from liability for injuries to hunters using the land.

“There’s no liability,” she said. “People are only allowed to walk. No driving, no camping, no target shooting — it’s all low-impact recreation.”

Hunters can find access areas in the&nbsp;Nebraska Public Access Atlas, available at gas stations, Walmart's, and online through the&nbsp;Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The digital atlas is updated more frequently than the print version and includes properties added throughout the year.

For a little extra fun this season, Pheasants Forever is once again hosting its&nbsp;Longest Tail Feather Competition, where hunters who harvest a rooster on public access can measure their bird’s tail feather at a participating business and submit entries online.

“Last year, the winning tail feather was 33¼ inches,” Piernicky said with a laugh. “It was wild — one of those rare, record-breaking birds.”

Entries can be submitted at&nbsp;NebraskaPF.com/Nebraska-Hunting, and prizes include a&nbsp;dog kennel and Sheels gift cards.

Piernicky encouraged both hunters and landowners to get involved in the spirit of conservation and community.

“Hunting provides not just recreation but real economic impact,” she said. “We’re thrilled to see so many people participating, and we’re looking forward to another great season.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙️Public Access Expands for Hunters in Western Nebraska Through Pheasants Forever Partnership

Listen to the full interview with Shelly Arnsdorf on our Kubota Podcast.

North Platte, Neb. - North Platte’s annual Cowboy Christmas Gift Show is back this weekend at the D&amp;N Event Center, celebrating its 20th year. Shelly Arnsdorf, who has coordinated the event every year since 2005, says it has grown into something much bigger than she ever imagined. “It’s taken on a life of its own,” she said. “Every year it gets bigger, and every year I get a bigger wait list.”

The show runs Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is a non-perishable food item or cash donation for the local food pantry. Volunteers will be collecting donations at the door throughout the weekend.

Shoppers can expect a wide variety of items, from clothing boutiques and jewelry to home décor, Western gear, saddles, and even seasonal decorations for hay bales. Arnsdorf said the show is designed for everyone, not just women. “There’s really stuff for everybody. It’s not just a gal’s deal. There’s a lot of things there for the guys,” she said.

She described the event as more than a craft show, calling it a true trade show inspired by the Cowboy Christmas shows held in Las Vegas during the National Finals Rodeo. “If you’ve ever been to Las Vegas and gone to Cowboy Christmas or Country Christmas, this is what it’s designed after,” she said.

Visitors can also enjoy food from the Hershey Band concession stand, which will be serving meals and snacks both days. Arnsdorf said she always looks forward to this part of the weekend. “Make sure you come hungry too. The concession stand always has something good,” she said.

The event is packed with one-of-a-kind gifts and unique finds, making it a great way to kick off the holiday shopping season. “It’s the unofficial kickoff. There’s lots of things you can get for yourself, gift items, and lots of one-of-a-kind items. Get there early if you want first pick,” Arnsdorf said.

The Cowboy Christmas Gift Show will be held Saturday, November 1, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, November 2, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the D&amp;N Event Center on Walker Road in North Platte.

🎙️Cowboy Christmas Gift Show Returns to North Platte for 20th Year

By Derek Beck | Z 93.5 Country/Q Country Classics 107.3 / North Platte Post

SUTHERLAND, Neb. — Nebraska musician Rascal Martinez is bringing his music career full circle, releasing a new single and music video while building a creative home base in his hometown.

In an interview with Z 93.5 Country’s Derek Beck, Martinez said his new song “Don’t Even Know You” will be released Nov. 21 on all streaming platforms. The track, written nearly a year ago, tells the story of a close friend coping with betrayal, addiction, and emotional abuse.

“It’s a song a lot of people can relate to,” Martinez said. “Hopefully, they can get something positive out of it.”

LISTEN TO FULL RADIO INTERVIEW WITH RASCAL

The accompanying music video, shot entirely in Sutherland and produced by a Nebraska-based team, features actress Katie Bodenhamer, Hershey who has had appearances as an actress in The Office, played Lacey in Desperation Road among other portrayals on-screen. The video also features North Platte local actor Landon Swedberg, who stepped in at the last minute as the male lead.

“We filmed it over three days and used all Nebraska people — Nebraska crew, Nebraska actors,” Martinez said. “It turned out just the way I hoped: heavy, emotional, and real.”

The project marks another milestone for Martinez, who in 2024 opened his own recording space, Stolen Vault Records, inside a renovated former bank building in downtown Sutherland.

“I bought it thinking it’d be an office, but then I turned the upstairs into a full recording studio,” he said. “We do rehearsals, record albums, and host intimate live shows for about 30 people. It’s kind of got that Bluebird Café vibe.”

Martinez said he’s been producing his own material and recording other artists while keeping his Nebraska roots at the center of his music.

“I’ve played all over the country, but I wanted something here that feels local — something where artists can tell their stories,” he said.

Fans can sign up for exclusive show announcements and ticket information at stolenvaultrecords.com under the “SVR Live” tab.

The music video for “Don’t Even Know You” is now streaming on YouTube, with the full single set to drop later this month.

“I just want to put out good music that people can connect with,” Martinez said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

<a href="https://www.stolenvaultrecords.com/svrlive">Sign up to get on Rascals Mailing List to see future events including LIVE AT SVR.&nbsp;</a>

Sutherland Musician Rascal Martinez Debuts New Song, Builds Music Hub in Hometown (podcast)

Listen to the full interview with Anna Moria

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Keep North Platte and Lincoln County Beautiful is calling on the community to get creative ahead of its upcoming Trashion Show — a one-of-a-kind design contest where fashion meets sustainability.

Set for Friday, November 15 at Venue 304, the event challenges participants to design wearable pieces made from recycled, repurposed, or upcycled materials. The goal is to highlight creative reuse while sparking conversations about waste, recycling, and the impact of fast fashion.

“This project hits all three of our focus areas — recycling, education, and beautification,” said Anna Moria with Keep North Platte and Lincoln County Beautiful. “It’s a fun way to rethink single-use items and see what people can create when they give everyday waste a second life.”

Funds raised from the event will support restoration of the Cody Park fountain, including updates and a new seating area designed to make it a more inviting community space.

Organizers are still accepting entries from designers of all ages. “It doesn’t have to be complicated,” Moria said. “We’ve seen everything from ball gowns made of candy wrappers to thrift store pieces that have been reimagined. It’s really about creativity.”

The event will also include a cash bar, snacks, and plenty of local flair, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for one or $30 for two and are available online at <a href="https://www.keepnorthplattebeautiful.org">www.keepnorthplattebeautiful.org</a> until sold out.

The date wasn’t chosen by chance — November 15 is America Recycles Day, making it a fitting celebration of sustainability and style.

For more information or to submit a design, visit <a href="https://www.keepnorthplattebeautiful.org">www.keepnorthplattebeautiful.org</a>.

🎙️Designers Wanted for North Platte’s Trashion Show

Listen to the full interview with Miss Nebraska 2025 McKenzie Gregory on our Kubota Podcasts.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Miss Nebraska 2025, McKenzie Gregory, has been traveling the state, connecting with communities, and promoting her platform, and she recently made a stop in North Platte. Gregory, who hails from far western Nebraska, shared with local media the busy schedule that comes with holding the prestigious title and her excitement to engage with fans and aspiring performers.

Gregory highlighted the support she’s received from sponsors, including Wolf Auto and Nebraska Land Bank, which have made her extensive travel possible. “I wouldn’t be able to do all of this travel and see the people of Nebraska as much as I am able to without their generous sponsorship,” she said. Her visits include meeting with local sponsors, attending Halloween events, and participating in celebrations with her fellow pageant contestants.

Part of her ongoing mission as Miss Nebraska includes a “state national park tour,” where Gregory explores hidden gems across Nebraska. She noted that while Western Nebraska offers striking landscapes and historic sites, Eastern Nebraska has its own unique beauty. “There are so many hidden gems in Nebraska, not only for the landscape but also the history of our state,” she said.

During her North Platte visit, Gregory also promoted a dance masterclass she will be teaching at the new Nebraska Center Stage. The event, set for Saturday, November 1, will feature two sessions: ages 4–7 from 1–2 p.m. and ages 8 and up from 2:45–5 p.m. Gregory, who has danced since she was two years old, plans to teach technique, lead games, perform her Miss America talent, and sign autographs. “I hope to inspire the next generation of performers and potentially even the next Miss Nebraska,” she said.

Reflecting on her pageant journey, Gregory emphasized that while competing in Miss America was an exciting “side quest,” her ultimate goal has always been Miss Nebraska. After five attempts, her hard work paid off, and she is now focused on fully embracing her responsibilities as the state’s titleholder. She encouraged aspiring contestants to cultivate their unique strengths and enjoy the experience without undue comparison to others.

For more information or to register for the masterclass, visit the Nebraska Center Stage and Dance Facebook page.

🎙️Miss Nebraska McKenzie Gregory Brings Statewide Tour and Dance Masterclass to North Platte

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 the team's journey to Lawrence, Kansas for the second preseason jamboree. As well as his thoughts going into the last preseason game this Saturday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #2 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 the final preseason games that took place last week in Colorado and how he feels going into the first match against Lamar coming up on October 31st.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #3 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/juanvassallo/">Juan Vassallo</a>-

Soybeans sit in storage, farm bankruptcies are rising, and total farm debt continues to climb. By nearly every measure, American farmers are struggling.

Experts say financial pressures are expected to continue mounting.

Due to rising costs, low crop prices and the effects of the trade war, economists project that growers could see roughly $44 billion in net cash income losses from their 2025–26 crops.

At a September&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chicagofed.org/events/2025/midwest-agriculture-conference" target="_blank">conference</a>&nbsp;on agriculture and trade uncertainty hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank, Shawn Arita, professor at North Dakota State University and former senior economist with the USDA, presented projections showing losses across nine major crops.

With production costs far outpacing revenue, Arita and his team at the NDSU Agricultural Risk Policy Center estimate losses of about $20 billion for corn, $10 billion for soybeans and $8.5 billion for wheat — with peanuts, cotton, barley, oats, grain sorghum and rice adding another $6 billion combined.

Since 2023, U.S. farmers have struggled with high input costs and weak commodity prices, a squeeze economists attribute partly to the Russia-Ukraine war.

But this squeeze is made worse by the loss of key export markets — particularly China.

“The tariffs are creating challenges, but it’s not fair to say they are the main culprit,” Arita said. “Certainly, they are exacerbating the issue.”

Arita also noted that the crop sector tends to follow trade cycles more closely than inflation trends. “[China is] not going to start buying soybeans until they get something out of these negotiations,” he said during his presentation.

Still, the main problem remains high costs across the board — tractors, machinery, fertilizers and other inputs, many of which are imported. Although it’s too early to determine whether President Trump’s tariffs will have an effect on these prices, Arita said it’s “simple economics”: higher taxes on these products inevitably lead to higher production costs.

While some farmers are expected to receive financial assistance through the Big Beautiful Bill, that support isn’t set to arrive until October 2026.

This&nbsp;<a href="https://investigatemidwest.org/2025/10/28/us-farmers-face-44-billion-in-losses-as-costs-rise-and-markets-shrink/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://investigatemidwest.org/" target="_blank">Investigate Midwest</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.

US farmers face $44 billion in losses as costs rise and markets shrink

Trump: It will be my honor to fund SNAP if ....

Sen. Dan McKeon faces Class II misdemeanor allegation by woman attending gathering

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

LINCOLN — State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst was cited this week for misdemeanor “public indecency” stemming from an incident at lawmakers’ end-of-session party this spring, according to the Nebraska State Patrol.

Patrol investigators cited him after investigating an allegation by a woman attending a sine die party often attended by staff, family and friends of legislators, Patrol Public Relations Director Cody Thomas confirmed first to the Examiner.

The Patrol received a report in early September about an alleged incident in the evening hours of May 29 at Lincoln Country Club. That is the same time and location that lawmakers attended the first of two post-legislative session sine die parties.

“An adult female reported that Dan McKeon had made inappropriate contact with her buttocks with his hand, over the top of her clothing,” Thomas said in response to a reporter’s questions about the incident.

Thomas said the State Patrol issued McKeon a citation for public indecency — a Class II misdemeanor — Thursday. The allegation was forwarded to Lancaster County Attorney Pat Condon’s office, which had no immediate comment.

McKeon, reached in person just before an Agriculture Committee hearing on Friday, told the Examiner: “I’m not going to respond.”

“Just like anything else, you just shut your mouth,” McKeon said.

Kathleen Neary, the attorney representing the woman making the allegations, said her client is grateful to the Nebraska State Patrol for conducting a swift and thorough investigation.

Additionally, Neary said her client plans to file an administrative charge with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC). The NEOC filing is an administrative prerequisite to filing a lawsuit against the state under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

While Neary is hopeful that the matter could be resolved without a lawsuit, she noted that, if necessary, she will sue and ask the jury for a verdict that vindicates and compensates her client for the harms that she has suffered.

McKeon is a registered Republican who was elected to the officially nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature in 2024, replacing former State Sen. Fred Meyer of St. Paul. McKeon’s biographical page on the Nebraska Legislature’s website highlights that he has been married for 30 years and has four children.

During his first session in office, McKeon passed two bills to ease agricultural regulations and has another bill pending that aims to protect veterans from&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/05/05/legislation-would-protect-nebraska-veterans-benefits-from-predatory-claim-sharks/">“predatory claim sharks.”</a>

The Examiner is not naming the woman making the allegation, because it is the policy of States Newsroom and the Examiner not to identify people who say they have been abused unless they wish to talk publicly.

People around the Capitol have been talking for months about an alleged incident involving someone who works for the Legislature.

Democrat State Sen. John Fredrickson of Omaha said he is “anxiously awaiting” the results of the State Patrol’s investigation. He confirmed that lawmakers have been aware of the incident behind the scenes for some time and said it’s been a “concern” among him and other senators.

“This type of behavior is really egregious,” Fredrickson said.

On Oct. 20, State Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha — a progressive nonpartisan — posted on social media in response to a comment criticizing her that the Legislature doesn’t “have an ‘ethics committee,’ and if we did, my colleague who grabbed a staffers ass at an event a few months ago would have resigned already.”

Hunt, in a separate post on Friday, called elected office “a public trust” and said it should not be “a shield for misconduct.” She called on McKeon to resign and said the Legislature should also be held accountable for “sweeping” the incident “under the rug.”

“My colleague Senator McKeon — or ‘Dirty Dan,’ as he calls himself — should have resigned from this office, which I never observed him to represent with dignity or professionalism, long ago,” Hunt said in a Facebook post.

“Dirty Dan” is likely a reference to “Dirty Dan’s Barn Bash,” a Sept. 27 fundraiser McKeon touted in the midst of the State Patrol investigation.

As of mid-afternoon Friday, no resignation letters from a member of the Legislature had been received by the legislative or executive offices that would expect them.

Gov. Jim Pillen, through a spokesperson, had no immediate comment.

Republican Speaker John Arch, through a staffer, referred questions to Republican State Sen. Ben Hansen of the Legislature’s Executive Board, which investigates allegations of wrongdoing against members.

Hansen neither confirmed nor denied whether the Executive Board was separately investigating the incident. He said he could not disclose details because of a strict confidentiality standard, but added, “The Legislature handles all incidents of workplace harassment with the utmost respect and importance.”

Republican State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner, vice chair of the Executive Board, confirmed that members of the committee are looking into the situation separately from the criminal investigation, but she said the group hasn’t yet reached a conclusion.

McKeon is expected in Lancaster County Court Dec. 10, authorities said.

McKeon faced court proceedings earlier this year on an unrelated civil case. The senator was named in a lawsuit filed in April by Kaup Produce Inc. The company sued McKeon for breach of contract, alleging McKeon did not pay for more than $18,000 worth of seed and other agricultural products the company provided him.

The case was closed on July 7, according to Nebraska’s judicial website. The case summary says the case “was disposed as uncontested default,” indicating that an agreement had been reached between the parties.

Nebraska Examiner Reporters Zach Wendling and Juan Salinas II contributed to this report.

Nebraska state senator cited for ‘public indecency’ during session-ending party

By:<a href="https://stateline.org/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>

WASHINGTON — A federal judge in Boston ruled Friday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s plan to pause a food assistance program for 42 million people was illegal — but gave the Trump administration until Monday to respond to her finding before she decides on a motion to force the benefits be paid despite the ongoing government shutdown.

At nearly the same time Friday, a Rhode Island federal judge in a similar case brought by cities and nonprofit groups ordered USDA to continue payments and granted a request for a temporary restraining order.

In Massachusetts, in a Friday afternoon&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71783393/26/commonwealth-of-massachusetts-v-united-states-department-of-agriculture/" target="_blank">order</a>, District Court of Massachusetts Judge Indira Talwani said she would continue to take “under advisement” a coalition of Democratic states’ request to force the release of funds from a contingency account holding about $6 billion.

Her ruling came a day before&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-double-whammy-snap-food-benefits-ending-and-federal-workers-go-unpaid" target="_blank">a cutoff of&nbsp;</a>Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits to low-income households.

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