OGALLALA — The Ogallala City Council will meet Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at City Hall, where members will review several infrastructure items, financial updates and end-of-year certifications.

The meeting will open with routine consent agenda items, including approval of minutes from the Nov. 25 meeting. The council is also set to consider awarding the contract for the 2025 Western Diamonds Overflow Parking Lot Overlay project. Additional consent items include approval of City Maintenance Agreement No. 43, the accompanying Certificate of Compliance, and authorization to seek Requests for Proposals for SCADA system improvements for both the water and wastewater departments.

The agenda does not list any scheduled public hearings, though time has been reserved for public forum.

City Clerk-Treasurer updates will include the November 2025 financial report and discussion on rescheduling the council meeting currently set for Dec. 23, which falls during the holiday week.

Under department and committee recommendations, Community Development will provide a KCAD office update from Mary Wilson. The council will also consider the Year-End Certification of the City Street Superintendent, presented as Resolution 2322.

City Attorney and City Manager reports are expected to cover ongoing legal matters and project updates, respectively, followed by updates from council members.

The agenda notes that council may enter closed session if needed, and that all written materials to be discussed will be available to the public during the meeting as required under Nebraska law.

The meeting will be held at Ogallala City Hall, 411 East 2nd Street.

Ogallala City Council to Consider Infrastructure Contracts, Financial Report at Dec. 9 Meeting

The Hot Sheets: December 9, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 8, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 7, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 6, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 5, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 4, 2025

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

When Tyson Foods announced last month it would close its longtime beef processing plant in Lexington, Nebraska, the news sent shockwaves across the state and prompted sharp responses from local and state officials. But the same corporate announcement also included another major development — one affecting more than 1,700 workers nearly 600 miles away.

On the same day Tyson unveiled the Lexington closure, the company also confirmed it would eliminate the B-shift at its beef facility in Amarillo, Texas, cutting approximately 1,761 jobs and consolidating the plant into a single full-capacity shift beginning early next year.

The dual actions were part of the same restructuring plan aimed at “right-sizing” Tyson’s beef business, which the company says has faced mounting pressure from a shrinking U.S. cattle herd, tight market conditions, and prolonged financial losses.

While Nebraska leaders quickly responded to the Lexington announcement — calling it “devastating,” “unacceptable,” and urging Tyson to work with local communities — the Amarillo layoffs landed with equal force in Texas.

According to Tyson, the Amarillo cuts will take effect around January 20, 2026, impacting workers across the region and significantly reducing the facility’s operations. The plant will continue with one full shift, but economic officials in the Texas Panhandle have already described the layoffs as a major setback for a community strongly tied to agriculture and food processing.

Both the Lexington closure and the Amarillo cuts were detailed in the same November 21 network-changes press release from Tyson Foods — but much of Nebraska understandably focused on the in-state consequences. The inclusion of Amarillo makes clear that the challenges facing Tyson’s beef division are not isolated and extend across multiple states and rural communities.

What was already known: Tyson’s financials signaled trouble earlier in the month

Tyson’s fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results were released 11 days before the Lexington and Amarillo announcement, and those numbers hinted strongly at what was coming.

The company reported annual sales of $54.44 billion, an increase of 2.1% over the previous year. Adjusted operating income and adjusted earnings per share climbed sharply, driven by strong performance in chicken and prepared foods. But the beef segment stood out as a growing concern. In its outlook for fiscal 2026, Tyson projected an adjusted operating loss of $400–600 million for beef — a sobering figure that underscored the financial stress caused by tight cattle supplies, record cattle prices, and squeezed processing margins.

Those financial indicators help explain why the Lexington closure and Amarillo layoffs were paired together and why both actions are tied to the same broader industry issues.

Regional implications for Nebraska and Texas

For Nebraska — the nation’s leading cattle-producing state — the Lexington closure raises concerns about job losses, fewer regional processing options, longer travel distances for cattle, and downstream economic impacts on suppliers, transportation companies, and local businesses.

The Amarillo announcement mirrors many of those same concerns. Community leaders in Texas say the elimination of the B-shift will reshape the local workforce landscape and strain families and neighborhoods that rely on the facility’s steady employment.

The pairing of these two actions — affecting two major beef-processing communities hundreds of miles apart — signals deeper challenges for the central U.S. beef corridor as processors confront high input costs and limited livestock supplies.

Tyson says support is coming, but questions remain

Tyson reports it is offering impacted employees resources, job-placement assistance, and opportunities at other company facilities where possible. Leaders in both Lexington and Amarillo say they are continuing to evaluate economic impacts and coordinate workforce strategies as the January transition approaches.

With cattle supplies remaining historically tight and beef margins under pressure, communities across the central U.S. will be watching closely to see whether more changes are in store. The Lexington and Amarillo decisions — announced together but felt far apart — are tied by the same industry pressures that are reshaping the beef sector across multiple states.

For Nebraska, the Amarillo layoffs provide important context to a story that isn’t just local, but part of a much larger national trend.

Tyson’s Amarillo Layoffs and Q4 Numbers Add Context to Lexington Closure as Beef Struggles Deepen

Fall is a popular time to collect soil samples from pasture and hay fields for nutrient testing. Time invested in soil sampling generally provides a good return on investment versus soil lab testing costs. Samples should be randomly gathered before the ground freezes with 1 composite sample per 15 probe samples (mixed in a plastic bucket) and used for the actual lab testing sample. Ideally, each sampling probe location should be Geo Tagged using a cell phone or other alternative marking methods. Consistency in sampling depths and using the same locations for repeat sampling years with increase comparison accuracy.

For extremely dry or lightly frozen soils, auger probes usually work better than standard cheaper straight cylinder probes. If lots of samples are needed, consider using a hydraulic soil sampling probe with a pickup mount or 4-wheeler to increase consistent 8 inches depth sampling.

For cropping or hay acres, each annual sample might represent 2 acres on a grid or 40+ acres in a field. Conversely, pastures are only core samples once every 3-4 years with two composite samples per rotational pasture. The key is knowing where soil types change and then gather representative samples from the different zones. For example, lower elevation hay meadows nutrient levels are likely higher than side slopes or plateaus. So, splitting pastures into testing zones may be useful and reduce overall fertilizer costs.

Whether you take samples in the fall or spring, be consistent and account for winter mineralization. Warmer average winter temperatures may result in more soil microbes&nbsp;mineralization and thus more nutrients available for spring root update. So, it may pay dividends to recheck soil nutrient levels in the spring and compared to fall tested levels.

In Nebraska, well nodulated, established alfalfa fields usually fix their own nitrogen needs from the air or soil, so the main alfalfa fertility focuses are usually pH, phosphorus&nbsp;and potassium. Sulfur content levels may also be analyzed with sandy, low organic matter soils.

For native grass hay and pastures, soil water content is the most limiting factor rather than fertility. Livestock producers may still benefit from pH, phosphorus, potassium&nbsp;and sulfur fertility testing especially for differing pastures and soil texture zones comparison. Again, it is recommended to soil test pasture every 3-4 years and at establishment.

More information regarding pasture and hay fields soil sampling is available at:&nbsp;<a href="https://cropwatch.unl.edu/" target="_blank">https://cropwatch.unl.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://beef.unl.edu/" target="_blank">https://beef.unl.edu</a>&nbsp;

Forage Minute: Fall Pasture and Hay Ground Soil Sampling

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) is encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect their mental well-being this holiday season, a time when emotional strain, stress, and crisis situations often become more frequent. While the holidays can bring joy and celebration, they can also magnify feelings of grief, financial pressure, loneliness, and family conflict. This can create moments when people feel overwhelmed, making early awareness and support especially critical.

The holidays often intensify emotions—both positive emotions and difficult feelings—and having healthy coping strategies in place can make the season more manageable. “We encourage everyone to set realistic expectations for gatherings and celebrations,” explains Kay Schmidt, Emergency Response Coordinator at SWNPHD. “Holiday moments do not need to be perfect to be meaningful. Planning for situations that may cause stress, such as crowded events or tense conversations, can help you remain grounded and keep your emotions from escalating.”

· Staying connected with supportive friends, family, or community groups is especially important this time of year, as even brief interactions can help reduce feelings of isolation.

· Maintaining healthy daily habits—such as getting enough rest, eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and moving regularly—can stabilize mood and improve resilience.

· For moments of rising anxiety or tension, simple practices like deep breathing, quiet reflection, journaling, or stepping outside for fresh air can help calm the body and mind.

During periods of high stress, individuals may be more inclined to rely on unhealthy coping behaviors, such as using alcohol or substances to manage overwhelming emotions, overspending to relieve tension, withdrawing from others, or skipping meals due to stress. SWNPHD encourages residents to be mindful of these tendencies and plan ahead to try these healthier alternatives that promote safety, connection, and emotional stability. Reaching out for support early—before a situation becomes a crisis—can also make a significant difference.

For those experiencing a crisis or intense distressing emotions, help is available at any time. The 988 Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 support through call, text, or online chat. Local mental health providers, trusted friends or family members, and community faith leaders can also offer valuable support during challenging moments.

To make sure everyone has access to mental well-being tools and crisis-prevention resources, SWNPHD provides the CredibleMind platform as a free tool for all residents of the health district. This online resource offers evidence-based assessments, educational materials, stress-management techniques, and self-guided programs designed to help individuals understand their mental health and build coping skills. Holiday-specific guidance, resilience tools, and local resource information are available at any time through the platform. Residents can sign up by visiting swhealth.crediblemind.com or by calling SWNPHD at 308-345-4223 for more information.

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties. You can follow SWNPHD on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

SWNPHD: Preparing for Holiday Stress

The Hot Sheets: December 3, 2025

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

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 record-breaking performance vs Midland University JV and what they need to take from that game to keep the momentum going.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 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 another tough loss this time against Frank Philips at home and what Coach Brandl is looking for from his team after the short Thanksgiving break.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #8 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

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 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

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

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

The drama over Warner Bros. Discovery has entered a new stage. On December 5, Netflix clinched a deal in principle to acquire Warner’s film and television studios — including key franchises and streaming assets — in a transaction valued at about $82.7 billion enterprise value, or roughly $72 billion in equity value. The structure: roughly $23.25 in cash per share plus $4.50 in Netflix stock, totaling about $27.75 per share. That bid reflected a strategic leap by Netflix: rather than building out original content alone, it would instantly gain control over Warner’s massive and deeply valuable content library — spanning decades of films, TV shows, and franchises.

But the story didn’t end there. On December 8, Paramount Skydance went hostile. The company launched an all-cash tender offer to buy all outstanding shares of Warner Bros. Discovery for $30 per share — valuing the entire company at about $108.4 billion enterprise value. That proposal would acquire not only the studios and streaming assets targeted by Netflix, but also Warner’s cable networks and legacy operations. Paramount characterized its bid as a cleaner, more certain alternative — delivering $18 billion more in cash value than Netflix’s offer and avoiding the regulatory and structural complications that come with splitting off the cable-network arm.&nbsp;

Paramount’s CEO publicly argued that shareholders deserve the chance to evaluate this superior, all-cash deal — pointing out that the Netflix agreement mixes cash and stock, leaves a highly leveraged stub in Warner’s Global Networks arm, and carries significant execution risk and antitrust uncertainty. By going directly to shareholders, Paramount aims to circumvent the initial board recommendation favoring Netflix and put pressure on Warner to reconsider.&nbsp;

The stakes go far beyond a corporate takeover. For Netflix, acquiring Warner’s libraries — from iconic film franchises to prestige TV — would dramatically broaden its content arsenal, giving it unrivaled leverage in storytelling, streaming distribution, and potential spinoffs into gaming, licensing, and global release windows. Analysts have described Warner’s catalogue as a “crown-jewel” asset — one that could vault Netflix into a near-unchallengeable position in global streaming.

Paramount’s bid, by contrast, represents a reassertion of legacy-media ambition: combining Warner’s cable and studio assets under one roof, potentially reviving a more diversified media juggernaut that spans streaming and traditional TV, theatrical releases, and network programming. For those concerned about the declining theatrical business and shrinking competition, a Paramount-led Warner might feel like a lifeline to a broader media ecosystem.&nbsp;

Yet in spite of the stronger cash offer, nothing is guaranteed. The company backing Paramount — including debt commitments from major banks and financing partners — adds a layer of financial risk. Meanwhile, regulators in the U.S. and abroad will undoubtedly scrutinize either deal, especially the Netflix-Warner combo, for antitrust implications. Questions over concentration in streaming, content licensing, and the impact on theatrical and lesser-known or niche creators all hang in the balance.&nbsp;

For now, Warner Bros. Discovery’s board faces a crossroads. It has acknowledged Paramount’s hostile offer but has not withdrawn its backing of the Netflix transaction — leaving the ultimate decision in the hands of shareholders, regulatory bodies, and, perhaps, wider economic and political forces.

The outcome of this bidding war could redefine Hollywood’s structure for decades: deciding who controls the stories, the content, and the distribution networks that shape global culture.

Netflix VS Paramount: The Battle for Warner Bros. Discovery

United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Seth Fontaine, 30, of Hastings, Nebraska, was sentenced on December 3, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for distribution of fentanyl. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Fontaine to 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Fontaine is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.

On May 17, 2023, Fontaine sent a Facebook message to Victim 1 stating “do u got Narcan?” The victim replied, “yea.” Fontain then replied, “Cool, thank you, I got some real fentanyl, wanna smoke some.”&nbsp; The parties met at Victim 1’s residence in Hastings, and smoked fentanyl.&nbsp; Victim 1 became unconscious and was not breathing.&nbsp; First responders were called to the scene and administered Narcan.&nbsp; Victim 1 went to the local hospital and received further medical attention.&nbsp; At the scene, law enforcement located pipes with fentanyl residue on them, burnt tin foil, and a torch still lit.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Overdose Task Force, which is comprised of law enforcement from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Omaha Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, and Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Hastings Man Sentenced for Distributing Fentanyl

ATLANTA — December 5, 2025 — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) today voted 8 to 3 to recommend individual-based decision-making for parents deciding whether to give the hepatitis B vaccine, including the birth dose, to infants born to women who test negative for the virus. For those infants not receiving the birth dose, ACIP suggested in its recommendation that the initial dose be administered no earlier than two months of age.

Individual-based decision-making, known on the CDC immunization schedules as shared clinical decision-making, means that parents and health care providers should consider vaccine benefits, vaccine risks, and infection risks, and that parents consult with their health care provider and decide when or if their child will begin the hepatitis B vaccine series. The committee said parents and health care providers should consider whether there are infection risks such as a household member who has hepatitis B or frequent contact with persons who have emigrated from areas where hepatitis B is common.

ACIP also voted to recommend that when evaluating the need for a subsequent hepatitis B vaccine dose in children, parents should consult with health care providers to decide whether to test antibody levels to hepatitis surface antigen to evaluate adequacy of protection through serology results.

These recommendations on hepatitis B immunization maintain consistency of coverage for all payment mechanisms, including entitlement programs such as the Vaccines for Children Program, Children’s Health Insurance Program, Medicaid, and Medicare, as well as insurance plans through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. ACIP on September 19, 2025, voted to recommend that all pregnant women be tested for the hepatitis B virus, a test that is covered across all insurance programs.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/kUgXRUpKal4" target="_blank">Today’s votes</a> were preceded <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/LpthhPBFAgI" target="_blank">yesterday</a> by presentations to ACIP on the hepatitis B disease burden, vaccine safety, and comparative nation immunization policies as well as briefings from representatives of the vaccine manufacturers.

A <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/acip/downloads/slides-2025-12-04-05/02-nevison-Hepatitis-B-508.pdf" target="_blank">presentation [PDF, 1.41 MB]</a> from Cynthia Nevison, Ph.D., on the decline of the hepatitis B disease burden since 1985 concluded that the universal birth dose contribution to acute case decline is likely small. It identified sharp declines in post-transfusion hepatitis B transmission due to advanced blood screening, improved dialysis practices, and needle exchange programs. It also acknowledged a 2019 study that found 57.9% of estimated births to women who test positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen were attributable to non–US-born women, mainly from high-endemicity countries. The study reported that 0.5% of pregnancies in the U.S. are to women who test positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen, which is the most significant risk to newborns for being infected with the virus.

ACIP Childhood/Adolescent Schedule Workgroup Chair Vicky Pebsworth, Ph.D., RN, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/acip/downloads/slides-2025-12-04-05/01-Pebsworth-hepatitis-b-508.pdf" target="_blank">presented [PDF, 487 KB]</a> the policy context and historical and international comparison of the immunization schedule for hepatitis B. The United States’ universal recommendation of the hepatitis B vaccine birth dose is an outlier among developed countries with low hepatitis B prevalence.

“The American people have benefited from the committee’s well-informed, rigorous discussion about the appropriateness of a vaccination in the first few hours of life,” said Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services and CDC Acting Director Jim O’Neill.

A recommendation from ACIP becomes part of the CDC immunization schedule once it is adopted by the CDC director.

ACIP Recommends Individual-Based Decision-Making for Hepatitis B Vaccine for Infants Born to Women Who Test Negative for the Virus

President Donald J. Trump alongside U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins&nbsp; announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will make $12 billion available in one time bridge payments to American farmers in response to temporary trade market disruptions and increased production costs still impacting farmers, according to a media release from the USDA.

Of the $12 billion provided, up to $11 billion will be used for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, which provides broad relief to United States row crop farmers who produce Barley, Chickpeas, Corn, Cotton, Lentils, Oats, Peanuts, Peas, Rice, Sorghum, Soybeans, Wheat, Canola, Crambe, Flax, Mustard, Rapeseed, Safflower, Sesame, and Sunflower. 

FBA will help address market disruptions, elevated input costs, persistent inflation, and market losses from foreign competitors engaging in unfair trade practices that impede exports. The FBA Program applies simple, proportional support to producers using a uniform formula to cover a portion of modeled losses during the 2025 crop year. This national loss average is based on FSA reported planted acres, Economic Research Service cost of production estimates, World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates yields and prices and economic modeling.

Farmers who qualify for the FBA Program can expect payments to be released by February 28, 2026. Eligible farmers should ensure their 2025 acreage reporting is factual and accurate by 5pm ET on December 19, 2025. Commodity-specific payment rates will be released by the end of the month. Crop insurance linkage will not be required for the FBA Program; however, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new OBBBA risk management tools to best protect against price risk and volatility in the future.

The remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in bridge payments will be reserved for commodities not covered in the FBA Program such as specialty crops and sugar, for example, though details including timelines for those payments are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs.

The $12 billion in farmer bridge payments, including those provided through the FBA Program, are authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) Charter Act and will be administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

To submit questions, justification for USDA farmer bridge aid, or to request a meeting on farmer bridge aid, producers can reach out to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:farmerbridge@usda.gov">farmerbridge@usda.gov</a>.

“Four years under the failed Biden Administration continues to leave the American farm economy reeling from record inflation, a depleted farm safety net, and delayed disaster assistance. 

The lack of new trade deals under the last Administration turned a trade surplus under Trump into a $50 billion trade deficit, causing our farmers to lose markets and feel acute pain from lower commodity prices. President Trump will not let our farmers be left behind, so he directed our team to build a bridge program to see quick relief while the President’s dozens of new trade deals and new market access take effect,”&nbsp;said Secretary Brooke Rollins. 

“The plan we are announcing today ensures American farmers can continue to plan for the next crop year. It is imperative we do what it takes to help our farmers, because if we cannot feed ourselves, we will no longer have a country. With this program serving as a bridge to the improvements President Trump and Republicans in Congress have made, it will allow farmers to leverage strengthened price protection risk management tools and the reliability of fair trade deals so they do not have to depend on large ad hoc assistance packages from the government.”

Additional Farmer First Actions Taken by the Trump Administration

In addition to $12 billion in bridge payments announced today, the Trump Administration has been working around the clock since January 20th to put American farmers first after inheriting one of the worst farm economies the country has experienced in decades. The following actions have been taken to date and together show historic investments and bold and unrelenting dedication to helping our nation’s farmers thrive again.

Over $30 Billion in Ad Hoc Assistance Delivered to Farmers Since January 2025

Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (<a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/programs/emergency-commodity-assistance-program/dashboard">ECAP</a>)&nbsp;is helping farmers recover from the economic hardships of 2024. This program distributed more than $9.3 billion to over 560,000 farmers for soy, corn, sorghum, and other row crops.

Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (<a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/programs/marketing-assistance-specialty-crops-masc">MASC</a>)&nbsp;is helping specialty crop producers recover from rising input costs and other market disruptions stemming from the Biden Administration. This program distributed over 1.8 billion in assistance to over 52,000 producers.

The&nbsp;Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (<a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/programs/supplemental-disaster-relief-program-sdrp/dashboard">SDRP</a>)&nbsp;is helping producers recover from severe weather events in 2023 and 2024. This program has distributed nearly $6 billion to over 388,000 farmers with up to an additional $9 billion to be distributed over the next four months.

Over $2.5 billion via&nbsp;block grants&nbsp;delivered to states and sugar beet and cane processors via block grants to cover losses from 2023 and 2024 that were left uncovered by existing USDA programs.

With the signing of the One Big Beautiful Bill in July, President Trump has made crop insurance more workable and affordable for American farmers and ranchers. Crop insurance is an essential risk management tool that allows American farmers and ranchers endure weather and market volatility. The bill increases crop insurance premium support for beginning farmers and ranchers by expanding the definition from five to 10 years of experience, enabling more producers to qualify for assistance over a longer period. These improvements will result in over $400 million in savings every year for America’s farmers on insurance premiums.

For the first time in over a decade the statutory reference prices for the farm safety net programs, ARC and PLC, were raised by 10-21% for major commodities such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. Thanks to OBBBA USDA is also expanding eligibility for these price support programs by adding more than 30 million new base acres to the program making them eligible for future PLC or ARC payments starting in crop year 2026.

OBBBA extended the marketing assistance loan programs through 2031 and updated loan rates for major commodities beginning in the 2026 crop year, providing stronger loan rates for crops like wheat, corn, cotton and soybeans.

The bill included historic investments to the domestic sugar programs and USDA made them available starting October 1, 2025. The loan rate for raw cane sugar has increased to an average 24 cents per pound for the 2025 - 2031 crop years, with refined beet sugar rates increased to an average of 32.77 cents per pound.

OBBBA invested in USDA’s major conservation programs, including the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). These funds will result in over $34B in conservation work on agricultural land over the next 10 years.

OBBBA provides $285 million a year for agricultural trade promotion and facilitation. This is in addition to the existing $234M per year of funding for MAP and FMD. These dollars are key to opening and expanding foreign markets.

OBBBA included many important tax provisions for farmers and ranchers. Some of the most impactful provisions for agriculture are the permanency of the 20% qualified business income deduction, full bonus depreciation and the $15 million per individual estate tax exemption, now also indexed for inflation. With the current land values, equipment costs and input prices, even modest-sized farms can easily exceed that threshold, meaning upon the owner’s death, far more family operations would face massive tax bills than previously estimated. A permanent bonus depreciation means that farmers can continue to write off the entire cost of new equipment, land improvements, new barns and other capital upgrades in the year of purchase, rather than depreciating them over many years.

Oversight on Competition &amp; Farmer Input Costs

On September 26, 2025, the USDA and the Department of Justice signed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2025-09-29-doj-usda-mou-farm-inputs.pdf">Memorandum of Understanding</a>&nbsp;(PDF, 1.3 MB) that represents a joint commitment by both agencies to protect American farmers and ranchers from the burdens imposed by high and volatile input costs—such as feed, fertilizer, fuel, seed, equipment, and other essential goods—while ensuring competitive supply chains, lower consumer prices, and the resilience of U.S. agriculture and the food supply.

On December 6, 2025, President Trump signed an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/addressing-security-risks-from-price-fixing-and-anti-competitive-behavior-in-the-food-supply-chain/" target="_blank">Executive Order</a>&nbsp;to stop price fixing, anti-competitive behavior, and foreign influence that drives up prices and threatens the security of America’s food supply. This EO recognizes that sectors including seed, fertilizer, and farm equipment may be vulnerable to anti-competitive manipulation that result in higher prices for farmers and seeks to take aggressive action in part by the establishment of Task Forces created to investigate price fixing and anti-competitive behavior, especially regarding foreign owned entities.

These actions combined reiterate the Trump Administration’s commitment to scrutinizing competitive conditions in the agricultural marketplace, including antitrust enforcement that promotes free market competition.

Lowering Farm Labor Costs through Deregulatory Actions

Farm labor costs alone increased 47% since 2020 largely due to the high cost of utilizing the H-2A program to secure seasonal labor under the Biden Administration who artificially inflated Adverse Effect Wage Rates set by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) using USDA’s Farm Labor Survey which was never designed to be used for setting government-mandated wage rates and is duplicative of other DOL data sources. As such, USDA discontinued this survey while DOL issued a bold new interim final rule which decreased wage costs for H-2A agricultural employers resulting in initial savings of at least $2 billion. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a final rule, effective October 2, 2025, to streamline the filing process for certain temporary agricultural worker petitions. These actions combined are making farm labor more affordable and more accessible for American agriculture.

USDA is Prioritizing the Purchase of Healthy U.S. Grown Commodities to Feed Those Most in Need through Section 32 Buys

This year alone, USDA has provided nearly $1 billion in Section 32 purchases, all which benefit the charitable feeding network.

On November 24, 2025, Secretary Rollins&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/11/24/secretary-rollins-announces-30-million-food-purchase-back-us-producers-and-strengthen-americas-food">announced a $30 million Section 32 buy</a>&nbsp;of American grown oranges, grapefruit, and mandarins.

On August 6, 2025, Secretary Rollins&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/08/06/secretary-rollins-targets-invasive-species-announces-next-steps-clear-chesapeake-harmful-catfish">announced a $2 million Section 32 buy</a>&nbsp;of invasive Chesapeake Bay blue catfish.

On August 1, 2025, Secretary Rollins&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/08/01/secretary-rollins-announces-local-food-purchases-communities-need">announced up to $230 million Section 32 buy</a>&nbsp;of Alaska pollock, catfish, apples, beans and cranberries.

On May 23, 2025, Secretary Rollins&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/05/23/secretary-rollins-announces-food-purchases-communities-need">announced a $67 million Section 32 buy</a>&nbsp;of American groundfish, pears, cherries, shrimp and beans.

USDA will continue to buy Section 32 commodity purchases to support American seafood, fruit, vegetable, and tree-nut producers for distribution to U.S. food banks, schools, and other outlets serving low-income individuals. These actions support President Trump’s vision to Make America Healthy Again through U.S. local farmer grown, healthy, and nutritious commodities.

This is the most pro-biofuels Administration in history

President Trump recognizes how important the Renewable Fuel Standard is for American corn and soybean farmers. EPA Administrator Zeldin delivered the boldest Renewable Volume Obligations ever and provided much certainty in the market for our producers while delivering lower prices at the pump for consumers. The RVO gives the markets the incentive to invest in American products for American consumers and to export around the world.

EPA’s decision to allow the summer sale of E-15 constituted 2025 year-round E15 and continues to deliver immediate relief to consumers, give more choices at the pump, and drive demand for corn grown, processed, and used right here in America. America’s national security depends on our energy security, and biofuels are a crucial asset that brings more jobs and helps farmers in rural America.

List of Trade &amp; Market Access Wins to Date

USDA announced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/america-first-trade-promotion-program">applications are now open</a>&nbsp;through January 23, 2026, for the $285 million America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP), a key component of the Trump Administration’s work to expand global market access and create new export opportunities for America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers.

Additionally, President Trump and his administration have worked to pen new trade deals and trade frameworks with more than 15 countries.

Switzerland and Liechtenstein&nbsp;will invest at least $200 billion in the United States, remove tariffs on several agricultural products, allow for market access for American beef, bison, and poultry, and remove non-tariff barriers for poultry and dairy.

El Salvador&nbsp;has removed non-tariff barriers including fumigation requirements and arbitrary geographic indicator restrictions on dairy product names.

Argentina&nbsp;will allow access for U.S. poultry and poultry products, within one year, and simplify red tape for U.S. exporters of beef, beef products, pork, and pork products. Argentina also has agreed to protect U.S. exporters’ use of certain meat and cheese terms, preserving market access and creating the potential for new opportunities in the region.

Ecuador&nbsp;has reduced or eliminated tariffs on American nuts, wheat, and wine; and will reduce major non-tariff barriers for many agricultural products regarding import licensing and facility registration requirements.

Guatemala&nbsp;will address and prevent barriers to U.S. agricultural products in its market; maintain science- and risk-based regulatory frameworks; and efficient authorization processes for agricultural products.

China&nbsp;committed to delaying new export controls on rare earth minerals, resume large purchases of U.S. soybeans, sorghum, and more. To date, China is already purchasing additional soybeans, wheat, and sorghum.

Malaysia&nbsp;will provide significant market access for U.S. products like dairy, horticultural products, poultry, pork, rice, and ethanol; recognize the U.S. food safety systems for U.S. meat, poultry, and dairy products; streamline its halal certification of U.S. food and agricultural products; and open market access for U.S. sorghum.

Cambodia&nbsp;will eliminate 100% of its tariffs on U.S. products, while the U.S. maintains a 19% reciprocal tariff rate for imports from Cambodia. It will also recognize the U.S. scientific guidelines for most U.S. agricultural goods and food.

Thailand&nbsp;will eliminate tariffs on 99% of U.S. goods, including most food and agricultural products and expedite access for USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service-certified meat and poultry products, giving American producers unprecedented access to the market.

Vietnam&nbsp;will accept preferential access for U.S. agricultural goods, including specialty cheese and meats, and is already improving access for U.S. peaches and nectarines. Vietnam will pay the United States 20% tariffs on all goods and 40% on any transshipped goods

South Korea&nbsp;will pay 15 percent tariff to the United States.

European Union&nbsp;will purchase $750 billion of American energy and addressing non-tariff barriers for farmers and ranchers - pork and dairy products. Market access for U.S. agricultural goods like tree nuts, sorghum, and more will also be provided as we work to commit to a simpler regulatory agenda.

Philippines&nbsp;is opening their market to the United States and charging us zero tariffs while the Philippines will pay 19 percent tariffs to the United States.

Indonesia&nbsp;will&nbsp;eliminate 90 percent of tariffs on American exports including for all agricultural products.

Japan&nbsp;agreed to $8 billion in American agricultural purchases including corn, soybeans, ethanol, fertilizer, and sustainable aviation fuel. Japan will increase US rice imports by 75%.

United Kingdom&nbsp;will create $5 billion in new agricultural export opportunities. $700 million in ethanol and better market access for American beef.

At the same time, President Trump is securing new, unprecedented market access for American agricultural producers around the world. For example, wine exports to Mexico are up 30 percent in 2025, reaching $18 million; South Korea has purchased $1 billion in corn, more than double from 2024; Bangladesh purchased $172 million in soybeans; Costa Rica streamlined its dairy access for U.S. producers; and India cut its bourbon tariff in half.

Nebraska U.S. Senator pleased with assistance package for farmers

🎥President Trump details the $12B aid package for farmers

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2025/25-332">Click here for a replay</a> of the Supreme Court oral argument

🎧 Highlights: Supreme Court on expanding presidential powers

Estefanía Pinto Ruiz | States Newsroom-Nebraska Examiner

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