November 14, 2025 (North Platte, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigators, have arrested two people after searching for a man wanted in connection with an attempted homicide. The arrests occurred Thursday in North Platte.

Thursday morning, NSP received information that a man with an active arrest warrant for attempted homicide was believed to be in North Platte. The warrant was connected to an investigation in Colorado.

At approximately 12:00 p.m., troopers located the suspect’s vehicle, a Ford F-150, as it was traveling on residential streets in North Platte. The vehicle came to a stop outside a house near West 6th&nbsp;Street and North Emory Avenue. At that time, troopers contacted the driver and placed him into custody without incident. A passenger was also detained.

Further investigation revealed that both occupants of the vehicle were in possession of suspected methamphetamine. Troopers searched the vehicle and found a handgun, over .5 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, a knife, burglary tools, and several credit cards, IDs, and checks belonging to other people.

The wanted subject, Robert Martell, 44, of Denver, Colorado, was arrested for the outstanding warrant. He and the other subject, Allison Gruenloh, 20, of Littleton, Colorado, were both arrested for numerous charges, including possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm during a drug violation, possession of burglar’s tools, identity fraud, criminal possession of 4+ financial devices, and other charges. Both were lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

Colorado Attempted Homicide Suspect Arrested in North Platte

The Hot Sheets: November 15, 2025

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Listen to the full interview with Barb Jeffres and Drew Krab on our Kubota Podcast page.&nbsp;

OGALLALA, Neb. — The Ogallala Tree Board is working to make the city greener and healthier, with a bold goal of doubling Ogallala’s tree canopy by 2034.

“The Ogallala Tree Board has been around for decades,” said Barb Jeffres. “Our big audacious goal is to double the canopy of the city by 2034. We’re trying to do that through educating the public about the importance of trees, searching for additional funding through grants, doing a lot of public planting, and promoting our memorial and honorary tree program.”

One of the board’s most popular initiatives is its tree rebate program, which provides residents with a $150 rebate to help offset the cost of planting a tree. The program also includes guidance on which tree types grow best in Ogallala’s climate. Since last fall, 21 trees have been planted through the rebate program.

“We assist with what kind of trees grow well around here and where they should be planted,” said Drew Krab, Tree Board memebr. “If someone is struggling or just doesn’t know what to do, they can reach out to us, and we’ll help them determine which tree may work best.”

Residents can choose from hardy varieties such as American elm hybrids, burr oaks, honey locusts, Kentucky coffee trees, and northern catalpas. Proper care is key: board members recommend watering newly planted trees regularly, even during winter months, to help roots establish and thrive.

The board also received a grant from Plant Nebraska (formerly the Nebraska State Arboretum) for tree removal and replacement. 

“We took down 16 trees this summer and fall that were diseased or unsafe and planted new trees in their place,” Jeffres said. “Homeowners were able to have the tree removed and replaced for $100, and we guided them on the best tree to plant.”

Community involvement is central to the board’s mission. 

Jeffres said, “We’ve tried to get kids involved in planting trees over the last five years. From schools to hospitals, children can participate and see the impact of their work over time.”

The board meets monthly on the second Monday at the Kathleen Lute Library, welcoming residents who want to learn more, volunteer, or suggest new projects. With around 30 trees planned for the next spring planting season, Ogallala residents have many opportunities to help grow a healthier, more vibrant community.

Ogallala Tree Board Works to Grow a Greener, Healthier Community

Listen to the full interview with Jake Nekuda on our Kubota Podcast Page.&nbsp;

North Platte, Neb. - When you walk into the wrestling room on practice night, you might expect intensity, grit, and determination — and you’ll find all that. But you’ll also find laughter, encouragement from every corner, and a family-like bond that stretches far beyond the wrestling mat.

All of it traces back to one person: Coach Jake Nekuda, this month’s Community Hero for Kids. Nekuda doesn’t coach for recognition; he coaches for the kids. 

“I’m definitely not one that likes to have my name out there,” he said. “I don’t do it for any kind of recognition. It’s just for the kids.” 

Still, the community has seen the difference he’s making, and this month, thanks to Prairie Friends and Flowers, he’s being celebrated for his impact.

308 Wrestling Academy wasn’t born from a grand plan. It began with a handful of high school boys doing offseason tournaments. Nekuda organized practices to help them improve, and the teens asked for a team name. They settled on “308” to represent the region. When girls’ wrestling season rolled around, Nekuda — the only coach working with girls in the area — welcomed anyone interested, and the program quickly took off.

“I went from three girls to almost 200 people signed up,” he said. “On the girls’ side, I think we have 60 or 70 different girls who come in. It grew fast — really fast.”

Part of that growth is due to accessibility. Everything is free. There are no registration or practice fees, and the program relies on fundraisers and donations to cover expenses. 

“We even bought about 25 pairs of wrestling shoes thanks to a big donation from Bullseye Electric,” Nekuda said. “I don’t want kids to miss out because of money. It’s about giving them a place to go.”

Girls wrestling in Nebraska is a growing sport, but only recently has it taken root in Western Nebraska high schools. For Nekuda, seeing his daughter and other young athletes thrive in the sport was a driving motivation. 

“I always had in the back of my mind, maybe when she gets older and doesn’t want to wrestle boys anymore, she’ll stop,” he said. When girls wrestling gained traction statewide, Nekuda stepped in, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents who were once unsure quickly became believers.

“If you can get through what wrestling demands,” he said, “everything else in life is easy. Practice is hard. Tournaments are hard. Matches are hard. But it’s incredibly rewarding.”

The academy is more than just a place to wrestle. Nekuda treats his athletes like his own children, fostering an environment where everyone supports one another. Older girls mentor younger ones, and newcomers are welcomed immediately. At tournaments, other teams notice the 308 difference. 

“We were told, ‘Do you know how we can tell 308 is in the room? Not because it says it on your shirts. Because everywhere we look, there’s 20 of your kids standing together cheering each other on.’”

While Nekuda coaches hard, he also cherishes the moments of joy and achievement. Watching wrestlers like Ambie Custard and Addison Arvdal win state titles has been especially memorable. 

“It was amazing to see these kids take the opportunity and go find success,” he said. “Her dad came up and gave me a hug and said thank you. But it wasn’t about thanks. Just being part of their journey is incredible.”

The lessons aren’t one-way. Nekuda admits the girls have taught him a lot, too — to stay on his toes, to laugh in stressful moments, and to appreciate what he has. 

“They’ve taught me to be thankful for what I do have,” he said. “When you see kids from all these different backgrounds, traveling long distances just to wrestle, you realize how fortunate you are.”

When asked what advice he’d give to someone looking to make a difference, Nekuda’s answer is simple: “Don’t expect anybody else to do it for you. If you want change, go be that change. Put the time in. Start somewhere. Build what you want to see.”

Jake Nekuda didn’t set out to build a 200-athlete academy or create a thriving girls wrestling program. He just showed up, day after day, invested in his athletes, and built a place where kids feel safe, welcomed, and supported. That is why he is this month's Prairie Friends &amp; Flowers and the Post's Community Hero for Kids.&nbsp;

Each month, The North Platte Post and Prairie Friends &amp; Flowers honor a Community Hero for Kids — someone who dedicates their time, talent, and heart to helping children thrive. From teachers and mentors to coaches and caregivers, these heroes represent the best of what community means.

Nominate our next Community Hero For Kids&nbsp;<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/0a0911a3-e2d2-43a7-b06c-3f7202aa991c">Here</a>.

The Post & Prairie Friends & Flowers Present: This Month's Community Hero For Kids - Jake Nekuda

The Hot Sheets: November 14, 2025

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) will be offering Vaccines for Children at public clinics in November.&nbsp; Anyone two months of age and older are invited to get their vaccinations. We are starting to see flu circulate in Nebraska. Now is the perfect time to get your flu shot if you haven’t received one yet. Flu shots will be offered at all clinics in November for anyone six months of age and older.

Trenton&nbsp;– Tuesday, November 18th, 3:30-4:30 pm at Hitchcock County High School Library.

Imperial&nbsp;– Wednesday, November 19th, 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 (new location).

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.

November clinics are often busy; 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.&nbsp;

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; Private 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 YouTube.

SWNPHD: Vaccines for Children Public Clinics in November

The Hot Sheets: November 13, 2025

New housing development continues to make visible progress across Keith County, as local efforts to expand workforce and family housing take shape.

The Keith County Housing Development Corporation has now fully allocated its $1.6 million Rural Workforce Housing Fund, supporting six single-family home construction projects throughout the area. The revolving fund is designed to help meet growing housing needs tied to local employment and economic growth.

According to the Keith County Area Development office, the Rural Workforce Housing Fund plays a key role in keeping communities competitive by ensuring housing options are available for incoming workers and families.

Contractors and developers interested in future funding opportunities can apply to join the program’s waitlist. Additional housing resources and a pre-application for income-qualified housing are available online through Keith County Area Development.

For more information, contact Mary Wilson at 308-284-6623 or visit <a href="https://www.kcad.org/housing.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com">kcad.org/housing.html</a>.

Housing Growth Continues Across Keith County

Listen to the full interview with Kevin Wilkins on the Kubota Podcast Page.&nbsp;

Ogallala, Neb. - The Ogallala City Council met this week with several key items on the agenda, including the resignation of Councilman Dustin Holstein, recognition for long-serving members of the police department, and updates on ongoing city projects.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins said the council accepted Holstein’s resignation after he announced plans to leave Ogallala to pursue another venture. “That’s going to leave a vacancy on the council,” Wilkins said, adding that members were advised by legal counsel on how to proceed.

The council had two options — holding a special election or appointing someone through an application process. “The council has chosen to take the route of an appointment,” Wilkins explained. Applications will be accepted from anyone interested in serving the remainder of Holstein’s term. Applicants must be registered voters who live within the city limits, and political affiliation does not matter since the seat is nonpartisan.

Applications should include proof of eligibility and a short background or statement of interest. Wilkins said he will forward all applications to Council President Steve Kraske, who will make a recommendation to the council at its next meeting. The council will then vote to ratify that recommendation. If the nominee is not approved, the process will continue at the following meeting until the position is filled.

The meeting also included a pair of recognitions for members of the Ogallala Police Department. Chief James Herman was honored for 25 years of service to the community, and Sergeant Taylor Molzon was recognized for five years. “Chief Herman does a great job with the OPD,” Wilkins said. “He’s thoughtful and considerate to both his team and the citizens of Ogallala.” Molzon, who serves as the school resource officer, was also recently promoted to sergeant.

Council members then approved routine business, including minutes from the October 28 meeting and the city’s financial report. Wilkins said the council requested some additional detail in future reports to better track expenses tied to grant funding. “If we don’t get the money, we don’t spend it,” he said. “The council wants to take a more focused look at those budget items that depend on outside funds.”

The council also approved taking bids for a parking lot overlay project near Western Diamonds, located in the southeast quadrant of the facility.

In his city manager’s report, Wilkins said the council plans to take a deeper look at city operations moving forward. “They want to do possible department consolidations, contract consolidations, and a wage and benefit analysis,” he said. Each council member will take on a specific subject area to help guide that process, but final assignments will wait until the vacant council seat is filled.

Wilkins also noted that the latest city newsletter was sent out with water bills, outlining the next nuisance abatement area. “We hope residents will clean up their properties ahead of any nuisance action,” he said.

The Ogallala Tree Board recently received a $52,000 grant to support tree removal and planting efforts. About $30,000 of that total will go directly toward tree removal. Wilkins said the Tree Board will share more details on that project soon.

City crews are preparing for winter weather, with the street department tuning up snow removal equipment and continuing work on Second Street. “We just opened the street in front of City Hall,” Wilkins said. “They should be pouring concrete later this week in front of Second Chapter.”

The council is also expected to continue discussions about renewing the city’s half-cent infrastructure sales tax, which could appear on the November 2026 ballot. Wilkins said the tax could bring in around a million dollars a year for infrastructure, with more than half of that revenue likely coming from visitors outside Ogallala.

For residents interested in applying for the open council seat, Wilkins said members meet twice a month and spend an average of four to eight hours a week on city business. “There are also additional meetings during budget season and some extra time expected as we take deeper dives into city operations,” he said.

Residents are reminded to move RVs and boats off city streets by October 1 and to move vehicles every 72 hours during the winter months to allow for snow removal. “When you scoop snow, don’t push it into the street,” Wilkins said. “It just creates problems for your neighbors.”

Wilkins wrapped up the update by noting that the city is ready for the colder season ahead. “Hopefully we won’t have to use that snow equipment too much this year,” he said with a laugh. “But it’s hard to believe we’re already talking about snow.”

🎙️Ogallala City Council Accepts Resignation, Recognizes Longtime Police Chief, and Reviews City Updates

The Great American Smokeout is November 20, 2025. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) supports the American Cancer Society’s annual Great American Smokeout event and encourages community members to take the next steps toward decreasing tobacco use and helping create healthier communities throughout Nebraska.

The tobacco epidemic is a large public health threat that is faced all over the world. It is estimated that over 22% of the world’s population uses tobacco in some form. Tobacco kills more than 7 million people every year. More than 1.6 million people who die are non-smokers that have experienced second-hand smoke exposure. A survey done in 2022 showed that around 12% of adult people in the health district smoke.

“Quitting tobacco is hard but even one step in the right direction can make a difference to not only your health, but also the health of the people around you,” explains Sarah Minnick, Program Manager at SWNPHD. “There are many benefits when you quit smoking, including improved health, increased stamina, and a reduced chance of getting lung cancer. During this annual event, join thousands of others across the country and start living your smoke-free life!”

It is important to understand what resources and tools are available to help you succeed and start living a smoke-free life. With free resources like the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline, the process can be much easier.

The Nebraska Quitline offers coaching and counseling services and resources to those who are ready to take the next step in their quitting journey. You can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or visit QuitNow.ne.gov for additional resources and to learn more about free quit medication. Spanish-speaking participants can call 1-855-DÉJELO-YA (3535-3569). The Quitline provides translation services in over 200 languages.

There are also other resources that can help you quit tobacco use for good. talk with your doctor to find out what resources would work best for you.

For additional information, call SWNPHD at 308-345-4223. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties. Follow SWNPHD on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for further details and recent updates. You can also check out our website at www.swhealth.ne.gov which contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, promote and protect health.

SWNPHD: Great American Smokeout November 20th

GOTHENBURG, Neb - Mr. Marc Mroczek, Gothenburg Public Schools Athletic Director has been selected by the Nebraska State Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NSIAAA) to receive the State Award of Merit! This honor recognizes outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to high school athletics in Nebraska.&nbsp;

Gothenburg AD receives State Award of Merit

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 an exciting victory over Garden City Community College and what he feels his team needs to focus on for the upcoming games.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Listen the full interview with Russ Jones on our Kubota Podcast Page.

North Platte, NE – Midwest Championship Fighting (MCF) is set to bring a night of intense MMA action and community celebration to North Platte with its upcoming “Salute to Veterans V” event at the D&amp;N Event Center.&nbsp;

Russ Jones, MCF President, says the event offers a mix of fight levels rarely seen in one night. “We start with street fights—guys literally off the streets—then move to amateur matches, amateur title fights, and finally professional bouts,” he explained. “The lower-level fights are just as important as the high-level fights because that’s how fighters get to the top.” Some street fighters even receive free training if they want to continue competing, giving local athletes an opportunity to develop skills and find a constructive outlet.

Veterans Honored
The “Salute to Veterans” program, now in its fifth year, invites over 200 veterans to attend free of charge with VIP seating. The event includes a flag salute at the start and a special parade of veterans during intermission. “We started this program to give veterans a place to gather, celebrate, and be recognized for their service,” Jones said. The initiative also creates a space where veterans of all ages can connect, fostering camaraderie and community.

Tickets remain available at <a href="https://www.midwestchampionshipfighting.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">midwestchampionshipfighting.com</a>, including a pay-per-view option for $35. Jones encouraged fans to arrive early to see the veterans parade, expected around 7:30 p.m..

He also highlighted several fights fans are eagerly anticipating, including local favorites Bristol vs. Seamann, Chris Burbine, Jareb Huerta, Oliver Nutter, and Madison McCord. 

“Bristol vs. Seamann is a heated street fight that fans have been waiting for,” he said. “And we also have a title fight that promises to be one of the standout bouts of the evening.”

Beyond entertainment, MCF provides a safe, structured environment where fighters—many on the "fringe" of society—can channel their energy positively. 

“These kids are looking for an outlet, a brotherhood,” Jones said. “Seeing fighters step into the cage is a moment you can’t put a value on.”

MCF events also draw a significant audience, boosting the local economy while providing a unique entertainment option in Western Nebraska. For North Platte residents, MCF Salute to Veterans offers a rare combination of high-level MMA action, veteran recognition, and community engagement.

🎙️Midwest Championship Fighting Returns to North Platte with “Salute to Veterans V”

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 opening weekend of basketball and what he observed from the games. Coach Thurman also discussed how important culture is to a young team and how he sees its effects early on.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #4 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 opening weekend of action vs Laramie County Community College and Eastern Wyoming Community College and what he saw from his team. And what transpired on the Knights' first two road games earlier this week.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #5 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Listen to the full interview with Landon Drews on our Kubota Podcasts

PAXTON, Neb. — What started as a small student idea has blossomed into one of Paxton’s most hands-on community agricultural projects. Paxton High School junior Landon Drews is preparing to host the second annual Harvest Day, part of his student-led Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project through FFA.

Landon first began the project as a freshman, taking on the challenge of managing a test plot on local farmland — a bold move that’s since grown into a full-scale, community-supported event.

“When we started, I was just supposed to farm the ground,” Drews explained. “Then my brother mentioned doing a test plot, and from there I knew I wanted to make it big.”

Last year’s plot featured six seed dealers and multiple corn varieties. This year, Landon expanded the project to include no-till and strip-till test plots with seven seed dealers — each providing a single variety for comparison. The project, he said, gives seed companies valuable data while helping him learn the science and strategy behind crop production.

“It’s a dryland test plot, which is pretty rare,” Drews said. “Most are irrigated, but I wanted to see how these varieties perform under real dryland conditions. It’s been awesome to watch it all come together.”

Support from area businesses like Hi-Line Co-op and Clauss Equipment in Ogallala has made the project possible, assisting with spraying and harvesting. Drews said he’s grateful for their continued backing — and for the enthusiasm from the community.

The highlight of the year is Harvest Day, happening Tuesday, November 4, starting with elementary student visits around 9 a.m., followed by a community hamburger feed from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (MT).

This year’s event will include hands-on learning stations featuring farm equipment, seed corn, and ag technology from 21st Century Equipment, Akrs Equipment, Fendt, and more. Students will have a chance to see and touch machinery they might not encounter otherwise.

“I wanted to get kids involved and show them what agriculture looks like up close,” Drews said. “It’s amazing how many kids from rural schools haven’t had that opportunity. Maybe it sparks something in them to go into farming or ag careers.”

Landon’s leadership has already made an impact — younger students recognize him in the halls and ask how “their” test plot is doing.

“It shows me I might be a role model for them,” he said. “This project has really helped me grow as a leader.”

Looking ahead, Drews said he and his seed partners are already brainstorming what next year’s plot might hold — possibly dryland soybeans. He’s also applying for a proficiency degree, a prestigious FFA recognition awarded to top student projects across Nebraska.

For now, his focus is on celebrating this year’s success. “I invite everyone out to Harvest Day,” Drews said. “Come see what we’ve built, enjoy a hamburger, and learn a little bit about agriculture.”

Harvest Day 2025 will be held Tuesday, November 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (MT) at the Paxton test plot. The public is invited to attend.

🎙️Paxton FFA Student Grows Leadership and Community with Harvest Day Project

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

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

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)

After growing since the end of June, the Mega Millions® jackpot was won for just the fifth time this year on Friday night. 

A single ticket sold in Georgia matched all six numbers in the November 14 drawing – the white balls 1, 8, 11, 12 and 57, plus the gold Mega Ball 7 – to win the estimated $980 million prize ($452.2 million cash),&nbsp; according to the Multi-State Lottery Association. 

 It’s by far the largest prize ever won in the month of November, and the eighth largest jackpot in the history of the game.&nbsp;

Georgia is one of the founding members of Mega Millions, and this is the largest-ever Mega Millions jackpot won in the state, and its first since November 2016.“$980 million is the largest jackpot that’s been won since the Mega Millions game changed back in April,” said Joshua Johnston, lead director for the Mega Millions Consortium. 

“Congratulations to our big winner from Georgia and to all our players who are winning more than ever with this new version of the game.”Indeed, in the 40 drawings since the jackpot was last won at $348 million in Virginia on June 27 – the most drawings in a single jackpot run in the game’s history – there were almost 14.3 million winning tickets at all prize levels. With the new greatly-enhanced prize values, total non-jackpot prizes won were nearly $343.4 million. 

These include 21 second-tier prizes of $2 million or more (won in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Texas and Virginia).&nbsp;Also in this jackpot run, a total of 347 third-tier prizes of $20,000 to $100,000 were won in 40 different jurisdictions across the country: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

In the November 14 drawing alone, there were 1,112,941 winning tickets at all prize levels, plus the single jackpot-winning ticket. One ticket, sold in Michigan, matched the five white balls for the second-tier prize; with the 3X multiplier, it is worth $3 million. 

Forty-eight tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball to win the game’s third-tier prize: 22 at 2X (two each in California, Florida, Missouri, New Jersey, Texas and Virginia, plus one each in Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee and Wyoming), 17 at 3X (two each in Georgia, Maryland and Texas, and one each in California, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia), seven at 4X (Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New York and Texas), and two at 10X (New York and Pennsylvania).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx">Find complete drawing results here.</a>

<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx"></a>Due to California’s pari-mutuel rules, all prizes in that state will vary from the standard values.The jackpot is the largest won since last December’s whopping $1.269 billion prize awarded in California. Four earlier jackpots were won this year; in addition to the Virginia win on June 27, jackpots were awarded in Ohio ($112 million on April 18), Illinois ($349 million on March 25), and Arizona ($112 million on January 17).<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/About/Jackpot-History.aspx">See the complete Mega Millions jackpot history.</a>The jackpot for the next drawing on Tuesday, November 18, resets to its new starting value of $50 million ($23.1 million cash). This starting jackpot level is another benefit of the game change.

Single ticket wins Mega Millions lottery jackpot of nearly a billion dollars

The U.S. military is reported another deadly strike on a drug boat in the Caribbean.

On Nov. 10, at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization, according to the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed that the vessel was involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. 4 male narco-terrorists aboard the vessel were killed. The vessel was trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea and was struck in international waters

This the U.S. military 20th strike on a boat accused of transporting drugs.

US. conducts another deadly strike on alleged drug-running boat

First lady launches new effort to support foster care children

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>

WASHINGTON — The record 43-day government shutdown that ended Wednesday night scrambled air travel, interrupted food assistance and forced federal workers to go without a paycheck for weeks.

It also cost the U.S. economy about $15 billion per week,&nbsp;White House Council of Economic Advisers Director Kevin Hassett told reporters Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As the government began to reopen Thursday, officials were working to untangle those issues and others.

But in some areas, the processes for getting things back to normal after such a lengthy shutdown will also take time.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump on Wednesday night&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/health-costs-spike-sour-and-divided-congress-escapes-one-shutdown-face-another" target="_blank">signed a package</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress reopening the government, which closed on Oct. 1 after lawmakers failed to pass a stopgap spending bill.

Flights back on schedule by Thanksgiving?

The Federal Aviation Administration’s shutdown plan, announced last week by Administrator Bryan Bedford and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, was to reduce flights to 40 major airports by 10%.&nbsp;

As of Thursday afternoon, the FAA had not lifted the order restricting flights. But the agency did stop ramping up the percentage of those affected.&nbsp;

The FAA started by asking airlines to cancel 4% of flights Nov. 7. A Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/us-transportation-secretary-sean-p-duffy-faa-administrator-bryan-bedford-freeze-flight" target="_blank">order</a>&nbsp;halted the rate at 6%.

That was enough to cause major disruptions to travel, and it remained unclear Thursday how long it would take to resume normal operations.&nbsp;

In a statement, Airlines for America, the trade group representing the nation’s commercial air carriers, welcomed the end of the shutdown but was vague about how much longer air travelers would see disruptions. The statement noted the upcoming holiday as a possible milestone.&nbsp;

“When the FAA gives airlines clearance to return to full capacity, our crews will work quickly to ramp up operations especially with Thanksgiving holiday travel beginning next week,” the group’s statement said.&nbsp;

The FAA and Transportation Department did not return messages seeking updates Thursday.The reduction in flights was meant to ease pressure on air traffic controllers, who worked through the shutdown without pay.&nbsp;

Many missed work as they pursued short-term jobs in other industries. Duffy said that left the controllers on the job overstressed and possibly prone to costly mistakes.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem sought to reward other federal workers at airports, those employed by her department’s Transportation Security Administration, with $10,000 bonuses if they maintained high attendance records during the shutdown.

Noem handed out checks to TSA workers in Houston on Thursday and said more could come.&nbsp;

Federal workers return, with back pay on the way

Hundreds of thousands of federal workers who had been furloughed returned to the office Thursday and those who had been working without pay will continue their duties knowing their next paycheck should be on time.&nbsp;

All workers will receive back pay for the shutdown, in accordance with a 2019&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/24/text" target="_blank">law</a>&nbsp;that states employees “shall be paid for such work, at the employee’s standard rate of pay, at the earliest date possible after the lapse in appropriations, regardless of scheduled pay dates.”

A spokesperson for the Office of Management and Budget said the White House has urged agencies to get back pay to employees “expeditiously and accurately.”

Agencies will need to submit time and attendance files, and payroll processors can then issue checks. According to the spokesperson, agencies have different pay schedules and payroll processors, and “discrepancies in timing and pay periods are a result of that.”

The office estimates that workers will receive a “supercheck” for the pay period from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1 on the following dates:

Doreen Greenwald, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, said in a statement Wednesday that federal workers across all agencies “should not have to wait another minute longer for the paychecks they lost during the longest government shutdown in history.”&nbsp;

“The anxiety has been devastating as they cut back on spending, ran up credit card debt, took out emergency loans, filed for unemployment, found temporary side jobs, stood in line for food assistance, skipped filling prescriptions and worried about the future. Federal employees should receive the six weeks of back pay they are owed immediately upon the reopening of the federal government,” said Greenwald.&nbsp;

The union represents workers at 38 federal agencies and offices.

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