On Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 6:58 a.m., the North Platte and Wallace Fire Departments responded to a propane line fire at the NuStar Energy terminal, located 10 miles south of North Platte on Hwy 83.Incident Details:

Location: 4" feeder pipe on the south side of 10 large industrial propane tanks.

Emergency Response: Automatic detection systems functioned correctly, closing valves on either side of the leak to isolate the fuel.

Containment Strategy: Fire crews manually closed additional valves per facility protocols. Following standard safety procedures, the remaining gas was allowed to burn off completely to prevent the release of raw gas into the atmosphere.

Duration: The residual product finished burning after approximately 90 minutes, and the scene was cleared.

Casualties/Impact: No injuries were reported, and no evacuations were required. 

Cause: The fire is currently under investigation but is preliminary attributed to a pump motor failure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Propane Line Fire at NuStar Energy Terminal South of North Platte Quickly Contained; No Injuries Reported

By Paul Hammel | Nebraska Examiner

LINCOLN — A New Year’s tradition is continuing at 17 Nebraska state parks that are hosting “First Day” Hikes or horseback rides on Jan. 1.

The free guided hikes allow visitors to get outdoors, snap photos, look for wildlife and participate in special events, which include a potluck soup luncheon at Ash Hollow State Historical Park near Lewellen and a tour of the James Family Conservatory and Nature Center at Mahoney State Park near Ashland.

The hikes vary in length, and at Branched Oak State Recreation Area, the “hike” is actually on horseback. Dogs, on a leash, are welcome. Visitors must have a valid state park entry permit.

First Day Hikes have been a tradition at state parks since 1992, when a state park outside of Boston invited visitors for a hike on Jan. 1. By 2017, an estimated 62,000 hikers participated in First Day Hikes, which are offered in all 50 states.

The Nebraska state parks, historical parks and recreation areas offering First Day Hikes are: 

For start times and details, consult the&nbsp; website,&nbsp;<a href="http://outdoornebraska.gov/FirstDayHikes" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/FirstDayHikes</a>.

‘First Day’ Hikes offered at 17 Nebraska state parks 

The Hot Sheets: December 30, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 29, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 28, 2025

The City of North Platte sanitation department will be closed Thursday, January 1st in observance of New Year's Day. There will be no refuse collection on&nbsp;Thursday, January 1st.&nbsp;

Please have your carts in place by&nbsp;6:30 a.m.&nbsp;two days ahead&nbsp;of your normal pick-up day to avoid being missed.&nbsp;

All garbage needs to be in the city issued containers and the lids must be closed. No bags or trash on the ground.&nbsp;

The transfer station will be closed Thursday, January 1st. They will reopen on Friday, January 2nd with regular hours of 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sign up for notifications through our website by visiting&nbsp;northplattene.gov/notify&nbsp;

North Platte Sanitation: New Year's Day Refuse Service & Transfer Station Hours

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Imperial, Neb. — Law enforcement and emergency responders were called to Veterinary Services in Imperial Friday afternoon after an individual was injured by a cow.

According to information released by the Imperial Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 1:35 p.m. on December 26, 2025, along with the Chase County Sheriff’s Office and Imperial EMS. The injured individual required medical attention and was treated by EMS at the scene.

Following the incident, the cow escaped the area and remained at large for a short time, creating a public safety concern. Authorities later located the animal near the 1100 block of Longhorn Street.

Officials determined the cow was dying, and for humane and safety reasons, the decision was made to dispatch the animal. A Chase County deputy carried out the action.

The Imperial Police Department stated the information is being released in the interest of public transparency due to a law enforcement firearm discharge occurring within city limits and near Chase County Schools. Authorities emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the public related to the incident.

The department thanked the Chase County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance and expressed appreciation to the community for its understanding.

Cow Injures Individual, Later Dispatched Following Escape in Imperial

The Hot Sheets: December 27, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 26, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 25, 2025

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Listen to the full interview with Brylee Thompson on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, NE – Brylee Thompson, a local girl from Hershey, is preparing for one of the biggest nights of her life — her incoming Miss Rodeo Nebraska coronation on January 3 at Venue 304 in downtown North Platte.

Thompson, who will serve as the state’s rodeo ambassador over the coming year, calls the upcoming coronation her premier fundraiser, helping to fuel her travel around Nebraska and beyond. “I feel like I’ve been planning my coronation since I was a little girl,” Thompson said. “It’s so exciting that one night I get to have everyone together to support me for the next year, and raising all that money is just so helpful.”

As Miss Rodeo Nebraska, Thompson will travel extensively, representing the professional sport of rodeo, promoting events, engaging with fans, and advocating for agriculture. “I am constantly kept busy — whether I’m in the crowd, on a horse, clearing cattle, or signing autographs,” she explained. “I do my best to promote and answer questions anyone might have.”

Thompson’s journey began at age 10 when she entered her first rodeo queen pageant. Now 21, she has dedicated over a decade to the sport, describing rodeo as her life. “It’s my family, and it’s everything I want to represent,” she said.

The coronation will include a social hour and silent auction beginning at 5 p.m., dinner and crowning at 6:30, and a live auction with live music at 7:30. Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for children ages 4–6, and free for children 3 and under. Attendees can purchase tickets through Sherry Slichtemeier at 308-289-4033 or via email at <a>sharislick@gmail.com</a>, with payments accepted by check or through the Miss Rodeo Nebraska Association’s Venmo account.

One highlight of the evening will be the reveal of Thompson’s custom-made chaps, crafted by Francis Wilson of Hershey, which she will wear throughout her reign. “I’m excited not only to wear the chaps but also to represent him throughout my year,” she said.

Looking ahead, Thompson will immediately begin her year of travel following the coronation, attending events in Denver, Steamboat, Dallas, Rapid City, and Florida. At the conclusion of her year as Miss Rodeo Nebraska, she plans to compete in Las Vegas for Miss Rodeo America.

“I encourage everyone to come out, even if you’ve never attended a coronation,” Thompson said. “We don’t always get to have them this close, and I’m just so excited to be a local girl celebrating right here at home.”

🎙️Local Hershey Native Brylee Thompson Set for Incoming Miss Rodeo Nebraska Coronation

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post

Listen to the Full Interview with Gary Person on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb. - As 2025 winds down, the North Platte Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development is celebrating a year of growth and success while looking forward to what’s ahead in 2026. Gary Person, Chamber president, joined the North Platte studio this week to share highlights from the past year and offer a glimpse into future projects.

Person began on a positive note, highlighting the upbeat mood in the community. “This is a beautiful time of the year, and everybody’s in a good mood,” he said. “We’ve had a really good year in 25. There’s an air of optimism going around, and that’s pretty good when you look at some of the challenges nationwide.”

The Chamber’s annual Shop North Platte holiday program was a standout success, with over 160,000 tickets entered through 47 local businesses. A top prize winner has come forward, with 25 additional “consolation” prizes still awaiting collection. Person emphasized the program’s message: supporting locally owned businesses keeps money circulating within the community.

Beyond the holidays, Person highlighted North Platte’s strong economic performance this year. While full statewide demographic and economic statistics won’t be available until February, early indicators show record-breaking retail sales, lodging activity, and construction. “The valuation continues to grow in the community, which helps push down the property tax rate,” Person said, noting that property taxes have dropped over 20% in recent years thanks to growth and legislative efforts.

Construction continues to be a major driver of local development. Person noted that 2025 will go down as the second-largest construction year in North Platte’s history, second only to last year’s record, largely due to the Sustainable Beef project. “The last five years have been the largest construction years in the city’s history,” he said, citing increased housing developments and industrial growth.

Looking ahead, Person hinted at major upcoming projects, particularly in technology-driven sectors like data and AI, which could bring significant investment to the region. These projects would require additional power generation, prompting collaboration with local public power providers to ensure sufficient capacity.

The Chamber is also closely monitoring workforce needs in the region. Following the recent closure of the Tyson plant in Lexington, Person encouraged participation in local job fairs to help absorb displaced workers and support the regional economy. “Labor’s been a key thing for everybody, and we want that workforce to stay in the region,” he said.

Other upcoming developments include expansion of the Industrial Rail Park in Hershey, progress on city and county comprehensive plans, and continued support for housing and business growth in the Twin Rivers Business Park. Person emphasized the importance of careful planning to balance industrial, residential, and sensitive land areas.

Person also acknowledged ongoing efforts to keep the community informed on broader economic issues, including monitoring the Union Pacific merger and hosting weekly legislative conference calls with local representatives. “Success breeds success,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of great momentum, and you want to ride that momentum for all it’s worth.”

As 2025 comes to a close, Person extended holiday wishes to the community while expressing optimism for the new year. “We’ve got a wonderful team—volunteers, businesses, city, county, schools—all on the same page, making North Platte and Lincoln County better. They’ve all deserved to have a very Merry Christmas.”

With continued growth, strong partnerships, and ambitious projects on the horizon, North Platte enters 2026 with optimism and momentum, poised for another successful year of community and economic development.

🎙️North Platte Chamber Reflects on a Strong 2025, Looks Ahead to 2026

Listen to the full interview with Caitlyn Jacobson and Leo Walz on our Kubota Podcast

A Logan County sixth grader is gaining hands-on farming experience through 4-H, using a wheat agronomy project to learn both the fieldwork and business side of agriculture.

Leo Walz, a fifth-year 4-H member, joined Nebraska Extension Educator Kaitlin Jacobson in the studio to talk about his project and what 4-H has meant to him so far.

Walz said joining 4-H felt natural, as it’s long been part of his family. “That’s where my mom and dad met,” he said. “So it kind of just came naturally. It’s a family thing.”

Over the years, Walz has explored a variety of projects. “My first two years, I showed cattle and then I did some shooting sports,” he said. “This last year, I did some baking projects and then this agronomy.”

When asked what he’s enjoyed most, Walz didn’t hesitate. “I liked showing cattle,” he said, adding that shooting sports has also been a favorite.

His current wheat agronomy project focuses on his family’s farm and a push toward more natural farming practices. “It involves our farm and everything we’re trying to do to get our farm back to not trying to use herbicides and chemicals,” Walz explained. “Kind of go in the natural route.”

That approach has come with challenges. “In today’s world, killing weeds is harder without chemicals,” Walz said. “So trying to keep the weeds down without chemicals is hard.”

Jacobson said projects like agronomy showcase 4-H’s “learn by doing” philosophy. “Agronomy is really just a prime example of the 4-H model,” she said. “4-Hers learn by doing.”

She explained that the project goes beyond fieldwork and includes detailed record-keeping. “He has a red binder with him, and that’s the record-keeping aspect,” Jacobson said. “You document all your expenses, what you make — all those things.”

Walz said much of that information came directly from his family’s farming operation. “Pretty much everything that my dad already has written down in the computers,” he said. “He was able to just give me that information right from his phone.”

Jacobson said that experience gives youth a realistic look at farming. “These are things that farmers have to do,” she said. “If a youth finds their spark in agriculture and wants to pursue being a farmer, this is great experience.”

Walz said the financial side of the project taught him a lot. “When we were doing the money aspect, like the breaking even stuff, I learned a lot about that,” he said.

Looking ahead, Walz plans to continue in 4-H. “This next year, I hope to do a couple more agronomy projects and some more wood and baking projects,” he said.

For youth thinking about joining 4-H, Walz offered simple advice: “Follow what you want to do and try your hardest.”

Jacobson said agronomy is just one of many project areas available. “The bottom line is you learn by doing,” she said. “It’s fun, and 4-Hers get life skills they can take with them into their adult life.”

4-H enrollment is currently open. Families can enroll online at v2.4honline.com, stop by the Nebraska Extension Office on West State Farm Road, or call 308-532-2683. Updates are also shared on the Lincoln Logan McPherson County 4-H Facebook page.

🎙️Logan County 4-Her Gains Real-World Experience Through Agronomy Project

Listen to the full interview with Dan Phelps on our Kubota Podcast&nbsp;

North Platte, NE – Travelers flying out of North Platte have reason to celebrate: early morning flights are returning to the schedule starting January 6, 2026. Dan Phelps of the North Platte Airport Authority shared details in a recent interview, highlighting what this means for the community and the airport’s ongoing development.

“This is exciting news for our travelers,” Phelps said. “The 6:15 a.m. flight is back, bringing us to the schedule we lost in 2023. It was very popular with the town, and we’ve been advocating for its return for a while.”

The early morning flight had been cut due to pilot shortages and limited aircraft availability following federal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The planes are back, pilots are back, and routes are starting to come online again. This early flight will help boost travel and bookings,” Phelps explained. Last year, the airport handled 16,500 boardings, down about 1,000 from 2024, primarily due to the absence of the early and late evening flights.

Phelps also emphasized how the schedule benefits travelers connecting through Denver International Airport. “Denver operates on a flight bank system with eight banks of flights throughout the day. If we get passengers there early, they can connect almost anywhere in the country and even internationally,” he said. “It’s especially beneficial for folks traveling west to places like Las Vegas or Phoenix.”

A potential mid-day flight may be added in April with the start of the golf season, he said, noting the growing importance of local golf tourism. Last year, TSA handled 660 golf bags through SkyWest flights alone, not including private aviation traffic.

Passenger Convenience and Holiday Travel


Early morning travelers will have a new perk as Einstein Bagels adjusts its hours, opening at 5 a.m. “Passengers can grab coffee, breakfast, and get checked in before their flight. Once our new terminal opens, this will be available even on the secure side,” Phelps said.

The airport is also managing ongoing construction and parking challenges during the busy holiday season. Phelps urged patience as temporary parking and lane adjustments are in place. Additionally, travelers flying with gifts should leave them unwrapped or have them easily accessible for TSA inspections. “If a gift is larger than a soup can, it must be opened for security checks,” he reminded.

Traffic Growth and Airline Industry Recovery


General aviation traffic has grown significantly, up 45% over last year. Phelps attributed the increase to private jet activity tied to local golf courses and a new fuel program by Trigo Dugan. “This traffic is great for the airport, generating landing fees and fuel revenue,” he said.

Commercial boardings are expected to rebound next year as well. “United Airlines is back to about 90% of pre-COVID levels, and we anticipate reaching 100% by this time next year. As more companies return to in-person work and travel, North Platte will continue to see growth,” Phelps added.

Several major projects are underway. The new terminal is about 60–65% complete, with interior framing and glass installation beginning soon. Phelps expects the terminal to be operational around June 2026, pending coordination with TSA for security system moves.

A federally funded large hangar project is also in progress, aimed at accommodating large jets and providing revenue through leasing. Additionally, Runway 12/30 will receive a 95% FAA grant for upgrades including LED lighting, drainage repairs, crack sealing, and concrete panel replacement.

General aviation hangars damaged by a microburst have been fully repaired with new doors, updated safety mechanisms, and electrical improvements. New hangar rates for 2026 have also been approved to align with comparable regional airports.

“The airport is active and growing along with our community,” Phelps said. “With North Platte’s strategic location between Omaha, Lincoln, and Denver, we’re a hub for travel and economic growth. These projects ensure the airport remains a valuable asset for the region.”

Phelps concluded by highlighting the community of local pilots, noting that approximately half of the airport’s 52 hangar tenants actively fly, contributing to a vibrant general aviation presence.

With early morning flights returning and significant infrastructure upgrades underway, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for travelers flying through North Platte.

🎙️North Platte Airport Authority Announces Return of Early Morning Flights, Updates on Projects and Traffic Growth

Listen to the full interview with Mayor Brandon Kelliher on our Kubota Podcast

NORTH PLATTE — North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher joined the North Platte Post Tuesday morning to recap the final regular City Council meeting of 2025, highlighting key actions and updates for residents.

The meeting, held Monday evening, addressed routine city operations, land annexations, and a proposed commercial solar farm. Mayor Kelliher described the session as “short and efficient,” lasting roughly 15 minutes.

City Operations and Sanitation Updates
The council approved the purchase of two semi-tractor trailers for the city’s sanitation department from Floyd’s Trucking, at a cost of $252,879. These vehicles are used to transport collected trash to the landfill near Ogallala.

In addition, the council authorized a contract extension with local entrepreneur Ryan Kuhlman for the hauling and remanufacturing of yard and tree waste from the city transfer station. Mayor Kelliher said the arrangement not only supports a local business but also turns a former city expense into a modest revenue stream.

Land Annexation
Council members adopted Ordinance 4242, annexing 11 government-owned parcels of land into North Platte’s city limits. Mayor Kelliher explained this action is part of an ongoing effort to unify city boundaries and fill small gaps in the city’s annexation map. 

“It’s all government-owned property, so no one is objecting,” he noted.

Infrastructure Financing
The council also approved a resolution authorizing a $317,319.83 warrant payment to Paulsen Inc. for paving work on area streets. Mayor Kelliher praised the company’s work, saying the payment reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining quality infrastructure.

Solar Farm Conditional Use Permit Delayed
The council postponed consideration of a conditional use permit for a proposed commercial solar farm near Victoria Lane and East State Farm Road. Mayor Kelliher explained that with three council members absent due to illness, he wanted to ensure a full council is present before discussing a major project like this.

Council Leadership
Similarly, the election of the council president for 2026 was delayed until the next meeting. Mayor Kelliher confirmed that Mr. Nistley has been elected to the position, adding that a full council should be present for votes on important leadership roles.

Public Engagement
During the meeting, a local citizen requested guidance on how to initiate a public hearing. Mayor Kelliher encouraged residents to submit requests directly to the mayor’s office, noting that public hearings must meet certain guidelines and be within the council’s authority to address.

Mayor’s Holiday Message
Mayor Kelliher also shared a message of gratitude and community spirit for the holiday season. He thanked the City Council, volunteer boards and committees, city employees, businesses, non-profits, and residents for their contributions throughout the year. “As we gather with family and friends this Christmas season, may we be reminded of the values that unite us—service, generosity, and a shared commitment to one another,” he said.

Mayor Kelliher concluded the interview wishing North Platte residents a Merry Christmas and a happy and hopeful New Year.

🎙️North Platte Mayor Recaps Final City Council Meeting of 2025

Listen to the full interview with Angela Hipp on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb. - Angela Hipp of Community Connections has been named The Post and Prairie Friends &amp; Flowers Community Hero for Kids this month, an honor recognizing her dedication to mentoring and supporting young people in North Platte.

Hipp said receiving the recognition was meaningful and affirming. “It’s amazing. It feels wonderful because, you know, we all want to be recognized for the things that we’re passionate about,” she said. “And I’m really passionate about my job, and I love the people that I work with and the kids that I work with. And when somebody thinks that I’m doing well with it, that feels really good.”

Hipp has been with Community Connections for 10 years and said the award prompted reflection on her journey and her connection to the community. “Maybe sometimes at 10 years, you start to think about, like, the past and how you’ve come through your job and where you’re at and your whole life,” she said. “And how much I love being a part of this community… and so feeling a lot more grounded in my community.”

As the coordinator of the mentoring program, Hipp explained her role focuses on connecting kids with mentors and building support systems. “I am the coordinator for the mentoring program,” she said. “And so I find mentors for kids… I find someone to spend some time with a child to hang out. But I also plan activities and gatherings for all of us so that we feel like we’re all a part of something together.”

Hipp said one of the most meaningful indicators of impact comes from annual surveys completed by youth and mentors. “Seeing what kids say when they can say it completely anonymous… really stands out to me,” she said. “They talk about what it has meant to them to be a part of the mentoring program and what it’s meant to have a mentor.”

She added that mentoring helps kids feel more connected and supported. “Just for them to have someone to talk to and feel like somebody cares about them,” Hipp said.

In addition to coordinating the program, Hipp is also a mentor herself. “I do. I have one mentee,” she said, noting they have been matched for nearly three years. Reflecting on the experience, Hipp added, “Those kids, you’re not just changing their lives, but they’re changing your life in the process.”

Hipp said being described as a safe person for kids aligns with the purpose of her work. “I think that’s the whole point of what I’m doing,” she said. “That I know there are kids that often feel like there’s not someone for them that they feel safe with… so we really try to create that space for them.”

Her passion for mentoring began years earlier while raising her daughters as a single parent. “I remembered thinking how much that would mean for my kids to have that extra support person in their life,” she said. “And I realized that all kids need that. They need to feel like somebody is recognizing who they are.”

Hipp said building trust with kids takes time and consistency. “It takes time and just showing up repeatedly,” she said. “A lot of dedication.”

Community Connections’ mentoring program has served North Platte for more than 20 years. Hipp said its strength lies in its mentors and flexibility. “One mentoring pair’s journey is going to look totally different than somebody else’s, and that’s OK,” she said.

Looking ahead, Hipp said the program continues to focus on youth mental health and positive development. “One of the things we’ve been doing… is really focusing on gratitude with our young people,” she said. “Looking at the positive things in their lives and looking at the positives in our community.”

When asked what message she would share with the community, Hipp emphasized the importance of everyday support. “I think that everybody needs to just approach their interactions with young people with a mentoring mindset,” she said. “There’s a lot of opportunities to show up for kids and make sure they know that they feel safe in our community.”

🎙️The Post & Prairie Friends & Flowers Present: This Month's Community Hero For Kids - Angela Hipp

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 a tough road trip to Wyoming that, in the end, had some positives. And what Coach feels are the small things the team can work on.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #7 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's late 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 rollercoaster weekend in Wyoming where the Knights split the two-game road trip. While also touching on a very positive victory against Hastings College JV.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #10 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, and dived into the recent struggles the team has faced over the past three games, and discussed an impressive victory against Hastings College JV on Monday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #9 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Listen to the full interview with Janet Vath on our Kubota Podcast

Lincoln County CASA is launching its first-ever Angel Tree program, offering community members an opportunity to brighten the holidays for local children in the foster care system.

“This is a new concept for Lincoln County CASA this year,” said Executive Director Janet Vath. “We have two locations. One at the First National Bank of Omaha, 201 North Dewey. Then we have one that is sponsored by the leadership of NebraskaLand Bank, downtown location, 121 North Dewey.”

Janet explained that participating is simple: “All you have to do is stop by the bank, grab an ornament off the tree. Each ornament includes a gift idea for a child in foster care, purchase a new gift, unopened. You may either return it wrapped or unwrapped, whichever you prefer.”

She added an important reminder: “Make sure that when you return that gift that you put the tag back on that present so we know which child it goes to. We have them all numbered and we know.”

Many ornaments remain available. “There’s still a lot of tags on both of the trees. Please come on down and take a tag and help support a child that may not get much for Christmas otherwise,” she said.

The tags represent a wide age range of children. “Anywhere from newborns to 18 years old.”

Janet also addressed concerns some donors have about not being able to buy every item listed on a tag. “The gift ideas on the tags are just ideas. Even if it’s one, one present off of that will make a child’s Christmas happy. They will at least have a present under the tree.”

CASA is asking donors to return gifts by December 15, though Janet noted, “The latest that we can accept them would be December 18th, so we can get them to the right places.”

Programs like the Angel Tree matter deeply, especially for children without advocates. “Some of these kids won’t have much of a Christmas if we don’t help out,” Janet said. She also explained that while Rotary helps cover CASA children already assigned advocates, the Angel Tree aims to assist those who don’t yet have one. “These are kids that do not have advocates that are in the court system that also need Christmas. And we try to look out for them, too.”

Beyond holiday giving, CASA is preparing for its next volunteer training session. “We are court-appointed special advocates for children in the court system. Advocates, we train 30 hours of training, which I do. Actually, we’re having a class starting in January,” Janet explained. “I’m hoping it’s going to be about eight, at least eight people so far have signed up. So I’m hoping it to be a very big class. But hey, we welcome anybody.”

Right now, the need is significant. “We have 42 children in the court system right now that need advocates. We try to do as many as we can. But without an advocate, we can’t give a child an advocate.”

Anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer or learning more about the Angel Tree program can reach Janet directly. “You can call our office or call me 308-386-8393. I’m the executive director, so I can get you…on your way to becoming that.”

Angel Tree ornaments are available now at FNBO and Nebraskaland Bank on Dewey Street. Gifts are due December 15.

“Please come on down and take a tag,” Janet said. “Help support a child that may not get much for Christmas otherwise.”

🎙️CASA Angel Trees Offer Holiday Support for Local Children in Foster Care

Lincoln, NE&nbsp;— A confirmed measles case in Platte County has been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The patient is an unvaccinated child with an out-of-state travel history in Arizona. Due to privacy, no further individual information will be provided.&nbsp;Individuals present at the following public locations on the indicated dates and times may have been exposed to measles and should visit and fill out the risk assessment survey at the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://epi-dhhs.ne.gov/redcap/surveys/?s=CHAJNT3C9L9NEEY3" target="_blank">https://epi-dhhs.ne.gov/redcap/surveys/?s=CHAJNT3C9L9NEEY3&nbsp;</a>

If you do not have access to the internet or need help filling out the risk assessment survey, call the&nbsp;<a href="https://ecdhd.ne.gov/" target="_blank">East Central District Health Department&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;at (402) 562-8969. &nbsp;

Measles is an acute, highly contagious respiratory viral disease. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and rash. Although measles is usually considered a childhood disease, it can be contracted at any age. Children under the age of five, adults over the age of 20 years, non-immune pregnant and immunocompromised people are at greatest risk of developing severe complications from measles. There is no specific treatment for measles.

Immunization is the best way to protect yourself and your family against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Children should receive their first dose of measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and another dose at four to six years of age. DHHS recommends Platte County parents of infants from six (6) to eleven (11) months old speak with their health care provider to discuss early MMR vaccination.

If you plan to travel, particularly internationally, or live in a measles-affected county, ensure you are up to date with your MMR vaccines, which can include an early dose of MMR vaccine for children six to 11 months of age. Contact your health care provider to check your and your family's vaccination status against measles. If you have not had two doses of MMR vaccine, talk to your health care provider or local health department right away.

If you think that you are having symptoms of measles, isolate yourself from others and call your healthcare provider, emergency room, or urgent care&nbsp;BEFORE&nbsp;arriving to be tested.&nbsp;Do not arrive at a healthcare facility without giving advance notice unless it is a medical emergency.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;​

Confirmed Measles Case Reported in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. — Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting upcoming income tax cuts set to take effect in January, marking a major step in his administration’s efforts to reform Nebraska’s tax system.

Under the plan, the state’s income tax rate will drop from 5.2% to 4.55% for the 2026 tax year. The final phase of the reduction is scheduled for 2027, when the rate will fall again to 3.99%.

“As part of the largest tax cut package in state history, my Administration is making sure Nebraskans keep more of what they earn,” said Gov. Pillen. “Our mission is simple: drive down the size and cost of government, while improving the services that taxpayers depend on. We’re making Nebraska great for families – and keeping the ‘Good Life’ open for business.”

The tax reductions stem from LB754, which Gov. Pillen signed into law in 2023. Since then, the governor has consistently opposed efforts to slow or pause the phased-in income tax cuts.

According to the administration, the changes mean Nebraska families will retain more of their income for the third consecutive year under Gov. Pillen’s leadership.

“We’ve made historic progress, but I continue to believe that our tax system needs generational reform. There’s more work to do to keep Nebraska the best place to live, build a business, and raise a family.”

Gov. Pillen Highlights Income Tax Cuts Taking Effect in January

By Juan Salinas II | Nebraska Examiner

Justice Department highlighted the indictment as a ‘nationwide crackdown’

LINCOLN — A federal grand jury in Nebraska charged 54 people with deploying malware and stealing millions of dollars from ATMs around the country, Nebraska U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods announced this month.&nbsp;

One indictment, returned Dec. 9, charges 22 people with offenses corresponding to their alleged roles in the conspiracy, including conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, conspiracy to commit bank burglary and fraud and related computer activity and conspiracy to commit money laundering.&nbsp;

A related indictment, returned Oct. 21, charged 32 people, alleging 56 crimes, including one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit bank burglary and computer fraud, 18 counts of bank fraud, 18 counts of bank burglary and 18 counts of damage to computers, Woods’ office said.&nbsp;

The indictments also allege that the gang Tren de Aragua used jackpotting to steal millions of dollars in the U.S. and transferred the proceeds among its members and associates to conceal the illegally obtained cash.

Tren de Aragua is a Venezuelan gang that started in a prison and has since expanded into Central America and the U.S., including to Texas,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-new-york-city-arrests-unlawfully-present-venezuelan-fugitive-and-tren-de-aragua" target="_blank">New York</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://denvergazette.com/news/crime/venezuelan-gang-tda-timeline/article_e0866290-7215-11ef-aa34-53af1764f2a2.html" target="_blank">Colorado</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/09/09/venezuelan-undocumented-immigrant-arrest-becomes-campaign-fodder-for-van-orden/" target="_blank">Wisconsin</a>.&nbsp;

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://transparenciave.org/economias-ilicitas/tren-de-aragua/#:~:text=Se%20le%20identifica%20con%20el,una%20investigaci%C3%B3n%20publicada%20en%202021" target="_blank">report from Transparency Venezuela</a>, the group adopted its name between 2013 and 2015 but likely began operations earlier. The group has been accused of human smuggling and other criminal activity that targets migrants, including kidnapping, extortion and drug trafficking.

One of the people in indicted was&nbsp;Jimena Romina Araya Navarro, an alleged Tren De Aragua leader and Venezuelan entertainer who was sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.&nbsp;

OFAC alleged that Navarro helped the notorious head of Tren de Aragua, Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, escape from a prison in Venezuela in 2012, and that others in the network laundered money for Tren de Aragua leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The U.S. Attorney for Nebraska said the “case demonstrates what state, federal, and local law enforcement officers can accomplish when they fully join forces … [and] TdA members will find no safe harbor in the State of Nebraska.”&nbsp;

The Justice Department highlighted the indictment in its “Nationwide Crackdown on Tren de Aragua”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-highlights-nationwide-crackdown-tren-de-aragua" target="_blank">press release</a>.&nbsp;The announcement cited other indictments in New York, Texas, Colorado, and New Mexico.&nbsp;

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen said in a social media post that this is “another recent example of why I believe Nebraska has to do our part, through setting up the ICE Detention Facility in McCook and by sending the Nebraska National Guard and State Patrol to secure our southern border, to help the federal government root out and deport criminal, illegal aliens.”&nbsp;

The State Department designated the gang as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/designation-of-international-cartels" target="_blank">foreign terrorist organization</a>&nbsp;in February.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/all-the-u-s-military-strikes-against-alleged-drug-boats" target="_blank">President Donald Trump has justified a U.S. military strike</a>&nbsp;on a boat in&nbsp;waters off South America because he said Tren de Aragua operated it.&nbsp;Strikes have continued and&nbsp;face scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and human rights activists. They told the Associated Press the administration has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/u-s-strikes-another-alleged-drug-smuggling-boat-in-eastern-pacific-killing-1-person#:~:text=The%20Trump%20administration%20has%20said,strikes%20amount%20to%20extrajudicial%20killings." target="_blank">offered scant evidence</a>&nbsp;that its targets are indeed drug smugglers and say the fatal strikes amount to extrajudicial killings.&nbsp;

Trump also mentioned the gang during the 2024 campaign. It was the group Trump named when calling a Colorado city a “war zone” after&nbsp;<a href="https://coloradonewsline.com/2024/10/11/false-claims-gang-takeover-trump-aurora/" target="_blank">online right-wing reports</a>&nbsp;of Venezuelan gangs “taking over” a Colorado apartment complex, amplifying social media claims later found to be false.&nbsp;

Woods’ office said the alleged ATM conspiracy developed and&nbsp;deployed a variant of malware known as Ploutus, which was used to hack into ATMs and force the machines to dispense cash. The malware’s primary purpose was to issue unauthorized commands to the cash dispenser to force withdrawals.&nbsp;

The conspiracy relied on recruiting several individuals to deploy Ploutus malware nationwide, authorities said. Members of the conspiracy and the gang would travel in groups, using multiple vehicles, to the locations of targeted banks and credit unions, according to Woods’ office.&nbsp;Authorities say the conspiracy members would then split the proceeds into predetermined portions.&nbsp;

If convicted, the defendants face a maximum term of imprisonment ranging between 20 and 335 years.

Nebraska grand jury indicts alleged Tren de Aragua members in ATM jackpotting scheme

Lincoln, NE – The Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) recently hosted its 131st Annual Conference in Kearney, NE. The conference was held December 17-19 and brought together county leaders from across the state to discuss key issues facing local governments, participate in professional development, and celebrate outstanding public service.

NACO Executive Director Jon Cannon reflected on the Conference. “Nebraska’s counties were the very first in our great country to decide to hold an annual conference way back in 1893. The settings and technology may have changed, but what has been constant is Nebraska’s public servants seeking innovation through their shared experiences. NACO could not be prouder to bring together the leaders of our communities and work on their behalf.”

The theme of this year’s conference was “All In,” which celebrated Nebraska’s achievement of reaching 100% membership in the National Association of Counties (NACo). There to help us celebrate was NACo President J.D. Clark. Attendees also shared their “all in” stories about what drives their commitments to serving their constituents. 

Attendees took part in breakout sessions that gave them an opportunity to connect with their counterparts from across the state and discuss the challenges and priorities of their positions. 

Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including but not limited to, FEMA reform, salary guidelines, and public records. County officials also had an opportunity to connect with the more than 100 exhibitors and state and federal partners who provide resources and products that assist county government operations. 

On Thursday morning, attendees heard speeches from Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and NACo President J.D. Clark. Both spoke about the importance of strong local leadership.

During the awards luncheon, NACO recognized the exceptional dedication of the following 2025award recipients: 

County Official of The Year Award: Darla Walther, Frontier County Clerk

Lifetime Achievement Award: Kathleen Nieveen, Johnson County Clerk

Next Generation Award: Amber Scanlon, Saunders County Treasurer

The NACO Annual Conference once again demonstrated the dedication and professionalism of Nebraska’s county officials as they continue to work together to serve their communities.


Nebraska Association of County Officials Hosts 2025 Annual Conference in Kearney

The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Monday announced that all 50 states will receive awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation (Public Law 119-21) to strengthen and modernize health care in rural communities across the country, according to a statement from CMS.&nbsp;

In 2026, states will receive first-year awards from CMS averaging $200 million within a range of $147 million to $281 million. Nebraska will receive $218,529,075. Missouri received $216,276,818 and Kansas&nbsp;$221,898,008.

&nbsp;This unprecedented federal investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.&nbsp;

“More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care,”&nbsp;said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities’ healthcare. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, rural Americans will now have affordable healthcare close to home, free from bureaucratic obstacles.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for rural health in America,”&nbsp;said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running. CMS is proud to partner with every state to turn their ideas into lasting improvements for rural families.”

A Nationwide Commitment to Strengthen Rural Health Care

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