SCOTTS BLUFF COUNTY, Neb. — Authorities have confirmed that skeletal remains discovered last month at Scotts Bluff National Monument belong to Chance Englebert, the Moorcroft, Wyoming man who went missing in July 2019. After a six-year investigation involving dozens of agencies across multiple states, officials say there is no evidence his death was anything other than accidental.

According to a joint press release from the Scotts Bluff County Attorney’s Office and the Gering Police Department, hikers found what appeared to be human remains on October 10, 2025. Law enforcement responded immediately and secured the scene. Dental records and DNA testing later confirmed the remains were those of Englebert.

Experts in forensic dentistry, anthropology, archaeology, pathology, and DNA analysis — including specialists at Physicians Laboratory in Douglas County, the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, and the Center for Human Identification in Fort Worth, Texas — assisted in identifying the remains. The Douglas County Coroner’s Office determined the cause of death to be “a pattern of blunt force trauma most consistent with a rapid deceleration event including, but not limited to, a fall from height.” The death has officially been ruled accidental.

Investigators found evidence aligning with this conclusion. The release states that Englebert died as a result of a fall from a significant height at Scotts Bluff National Monument. The distance from the likely point of the fall to the location where his torso was found ranged from roughly 130 feet at the shortest point to nearly 290 feet.

Englebert disappeared on July 6, 2019. In the days that followed, law enforcement and volunteers conducted extensive ground searches throughout the Scottsbluff and Gering areas. As the case progressed, the investigation shifted toward gathering technical and forensic information. Officers executed numerous search warrants, reviewed phone and social media records, examined financial data, interviewed hundreds of individuals, and followed up on countless tips.

The search efforts also included multiple large-scale operations with K-9 units, forensic teams, specialized search and rescue crews, and partner agencies from across Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and beyond. The release notes that agencies including the FBI, Nebraska State Patrol, National Park Service, Nebraska Game and Parks, multiple county sheriff’s offices, fire departments, medical examiners, and the NamUS Center for Human Identification all contributed to the investigation over the last six years.

Despite the volume of tips and extensive forensic work, authorities say none of the information gathered over the years indicated foul play or suggested that Englebert’s disappearance was anything other than a tragic accident.

Family and next of kin were notified prior to the public release of the findings.

Official Release: Skeletal Remains Found at Scotts Bluff National Monument Identified as Chance Englebert; Death Ruled Accidental

The Hot Sheets: November 29, 2025

The Hot Sheets: November 28, 2025

The Hot Sheets: November 27, 2025

The Hot Sheets: November 26, 2025

Mid-Plains Community College will close at 3 p.m. Nov. 26 for Thanksgiving break.

The closure includes all MPCC campuses including McCook, North Platte, Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine. Regular business hours and classes will resume on Monday, Dec. 1.

MPCC to observe Thanksgiving holiday

The Hot Sheets: November 25, 2025

SCOTTS BLUFF COUNTY, Neb. — Human remains discovered last month near Scotts Bluff National Monument have been confirmed Monday night through DNA testing to be those of Chance Engelbert, the Wyoming man who vanished in July 2019.

Engelbert, then 25, went missing after walking away from a family gathering in Gering. Despite years of searches, public attention, and ongoing efforts by law enforcement, no trace of him was found until October, when a person in a rural area on the north side of the monument reported finding remains and personal items.

Those items matched descriptions provided by Engelbert’s family, prompting forensic testing that has now officially identified the remains.

On Monday, Engelbert’s mother, Dawn Engelbert, issued a public statement confirming what investigators shared with her family:

“As most have already read on Facebook, unfortunately including our family before I could let them know, that the DNA confirmed that it was Chance. I was on the phone with Gering PD when it was posted. All I can say is, that this is not any type of closure to us — will just always be more questions. I am told that the State Attorney will be doing a press release Wednesday and his remains will be released to his next of kin at that time. I thank you for all the support, prayers and love! Please stay kind and careful what you post!”

Authorities have not released details regarding the cause or manner of death. Officials say additional forensic analysis is underway, and more information is expected following the State Attorney’s planned press release later this week.

Engelbert’s disappearance has remained one of the region’s most followed missing-person cases for more than six years. The confirmation of his remains answers long-standing questions about his whereabouts but leaves the circumstances of his final moments unresolved.

This is a developing story. Additional updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Remains Found Near Scotts Bluff National Monument Confirmed as Chance Engelbert

NOVEMBER 24, 2025 (NORTH PLATTE, NEB.)&nbsp; —&nbsp; Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol conducted local alcohol compliance checks in Keith County.

During the afternoon hours of Sunday November 16, 2025, investigators conducted alcohol compliance checks in Keith County. In total, 10 businesses were checked. Of those businesses, 8 refused to sell alcohol to a minor for a compliance rate of 80 percent. All of the businesses checked the minor’s ID. One of the businesses that sold were also cited for allowing a minor to sell.

The businesses included convenience stores, restaurants, bars, and liquor stores. Businesses that sell alcohol to a minor are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Clerks who sell alcohol to a minor are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

This project was funded (100%, $427,899.00) by the Region II Human Services Substance Use Prevention &amp; Treatment Block Grant (1B08TI088119-01) through SAMHSA, contracted through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alcohol Compliance Checks Held in Keith County

Kimball, Neb. — The Kimball Police Department has released details on three separate child-abuse-related arrests over the past week, outlining unrelated incidents investigated between November 15th and November 21st.

November 15:
Officers responded to a report of an assault in the 700 block of Chestnut Street. Following an investigation, police say probable cause was established to arrest 38-year-old Steven Nunley on a charge of child abuse. Officers attempted to contact Nunley at his residence, and after obtaining a search warrant, he exited the home and was taken into custody without incident. The Kimball County Sheriff’s Office assisted.

November 19:
Kimball officers responded to a report of child abuse in the 400 block of South Oak Street. A forensic interview conducted with Capstone in Gering and a joint response with DHHS led to the arrests of 31-year-old Becki Russi and 29-year-old Christopher Stewart. Russi faces three counts of child abuse; Stewart faces two. Both were arrested on scene. The Kimball County Sheriff’s Office assisted.

November 21:
Police opened an investigation involving suspected child sexual abuse material. Following the investigation, officers say they established probable cause to arrest 45-year-old Kenny Rogers. Rogers is charged under Nebraska Revised Statute 28-1803 with possession or receipt of child sexual abuse material.

In each case, the department noted that information is preliminary and may change as investigations continue. No additional details will be released to protect the integrity of the ongoing cases.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Kimball Police Issue Three Child Abuse-Related Arrest Announcements in One Week

Ogallala, Neb. -The Ogallala City Council will hold its regular meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 25, at 411 East 2nd Street. Residents are invited to attend.

The council will start the evening with the appointment of a new member to fill a vacant seat. The meeting will also include approval of claims and the minutes from the November 11 meeting.

A key item on the agenda is a public hearing on a request for an in-home daycare at 1420 East 6th Street. Planning and Zoning officials will review the proposal.

During the public forum, the council will recognize Maureen Schumm for five years of service, hear an update from PeopleService Inc., and consider a request for financial support from Karen Lundquist and Jeryl Eastman after a sewage backup at 715 Valleyview Drive.

Other items include an ambulance service tiering agreement and a nuisance abatement rescission for 810 West 3rd Street. City staff will also provide updates on ongoing projects.

The meeting is open to the public, and written materials for discussion will be available for review at the meeting location.

For more information, contact the City Clerk at 308-284-3607.

Ogallala City Council Meeting Preview: Daycare Proposal, Sewage Damage Request, Council Vacancy on the Agenda

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

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)

WASHINGTON — Georgia Republican U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s upcoming resignation from Congress set off a series of questions and misinformation about what health care and pension benefits lawmakers receive once they leave public service.&nbsp;

The system is a bit complex and determined by when a lawmaker entered Congress as well as how long they stayed. Members must serve at least five years, putting Greene just over the eligibility line&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/2025/11/21/georgia-congresswoman-marjorie-taylor-greene-says-she-will-resign-in-january/" target="_blank">when she officially steps aside</a>&nbsp;in January.&nbsp;

Members of Congress elected after 1984 are covered under the Federal Employees’ Retirement System. The four House lawmakers and one senator elected before then may be under the Civil Service Retirement System, so their benefit may be calculated differently than that of their colleagues.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The nonpartisan Congressional Research Service explains in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs_external_products/RL/PDF/RL30631/RL30631.39.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;about lawmakers’ retirement benefits that “pensions, like those of other federal employees, are financed through a combination of employee and employer contributions.”&nbsp;

“Under both CSRS and FERS, Members of Congress are eligible for a pension at the age of 62 if they have completed at least 5 years of service,” the report states. “Members are eligible for a pension at age 50 if they have completed 20 years of service, or at any age after completing 25 years of service. The amount of the pension depends on length of service (as measured in months) and the average of the highest three years of salary. By law, the starting amount of a Member’s retirement annuity may not exceed 80% of his or her final salary.”

All members also must pay into Social Security, and how much in taxes they pay and benefits they receive are the same as for all beneficiaries.

Members of Congress, except for leadership, are paid $174,000 a year.

Greene, who began her congressional career on Jan. 3, 2021, will be just over the five-year requirement when she formally resigns on Jan. 5.&nbsp;

Greene will receive about $8,700 in pension benefits per year for the rest of her life, after she turns 62. She is now 51.

Former U.S. Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., who was first sworn in on June 2, 1987, after winning a special election, will receive considerably more in pension benefits given that she was a member for decades longer than Greene and had a higher salary during her time in leadership.&nbsp;

The National Taxpayers Union Foundation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ntu.org/foundation/detail/pelosi-to-exit-congress-with-one-of-the-largest-pensions-on-record" target="_blank">expects</a>&nbsp;Pelosi will receive an annual pension of $107,860 after she retires in January 2027.&nbsp;

Members of Congress who retire or resign are eligible to purchase health insurance from the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program as long as they had health insurance from the District of Columbia’s Affordable Care Act marketplace “for the five years of service immediately prior to retirement,” according to a different CRS&nbsp;<a href="https://sgp.fas.org/crs/misc/R43194.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>.&nbsp;

While in Congress, lawmakers are eligible to have some of their health coverage offset by their employer — the federal government — as long as they purchase it through the D.C. marketplace, known as DC Health Link. Like others in the states, it was created by the Affordable Care Act.

As with group health insurance plans, the amount subsidized by the federal government depends on whether a lawmaker selects a health plan that covers themselves or themselves plus eligible family members.&nbsp;

Rep. MTG's retirement launches speculation about congressional pensions

President Donald Trump said Friday he will try to reverse any law, pardon or still-in-effect executive order that former President Joe Biden signed with an autopen, though it wasn’t immediately clear how that would work or whether it would be legal.&nbsp;

Trump declared in&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/115629010097815862" target="_blank">a social media post</a>&nbsp;that any documents Biden signed with the autopen are “hereby terminated, and of no further force or effect.”

“I am hereby cancelling all Executive Orders, and anything else that was not directly signed by Crooked Joe Biden, because the people who operated the Autopen did so illegally,” Trump alleged. “Joe Biden was not involved in the Autopen process and, if he says he was, he will be brought up on charges of perjury. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The White House press office didn’t immediately respond to a request for the list of documents Trump believes he has the ability to rescind based on the manner they were signed.

States Newsroom also asked the Trump administration if officials believe the president would need to sign an executive order in order to implement his social media post.&nbsp;

Experts dismissed earlier autopen challenge&nbsp;

The post was similar to one&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/legal-experts-quash-trump-argument-biden-pardons-signed-autopen-are-void" target="_blank">Trump published in March</a>&nbsp;when he claimed any pardons Biden signed with the autopen were void, something legal experts said at the time was “absurd” and a “red herring.”

Trump brought up his frustration with autopen use again in June&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-opens-investigation-biden-autopen-use" target="_blank">when he ordered</a>&nbsp;the White House legal counsel and U.S. attorney general to investigate when and why Biden administration staff used an autopen.&nbsp;

Trump said during an Oval Office appearance at the time he hadn’t found any evidence Biden aides violated the law.

“No, but I’ve uncovered the human mind,” Trump said. “I was in a debate with the human mind and I didn’t think he knew what the hell he was doing. So it’s one of those things, one of those problems. We can’t ever allow that to happen to our country.”

Biden and spokespeople working for him have repeatedly said he knew what official documents were being signed in his name and rejected claims that White House staff used the autopen without his authorization or knowledge.&nbsp;

Biden released a statement in June following the Trump memorandum, saying the investigation “is nothing more than a distraction by Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans who are working to push disastrous legislation that would cut essential programs like Medicaid and raise costs on American families, all to pay for tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy and big corporations.”

“Let me be clear: I made the decisions during my presidency. I made the decisions about the pardons, executive orders, legislation, and proclamations,” Biden wrote at the time. “Any suggestion that I didn’t is ridiculous and false.”

While presidents have regularly rescinded their predecessors executive orders, usually within their first few days or weeks in office, Congress would very likely need to act in order to alter or eliminate any laws that Biden signed with an autopen. Trump seeking to overturn a law, or part of a law, unilaterally would likely lead to a lawsuit over whether he holds that power.&nbsp;

It also wasn’t immediately clear what legal authority Trump believes he has as president to undo pardons if Biden used an autopen to sign the documents.&nbsp;

David Super, a constitutional and administrative law professor at Georgetown University, told States Newsroom in March that “the Constitution does not require signatures for pardons. It simply says the president has the power to pardon.”

“So if President Biden wanted to simply verbally tell someone they’re pardoned, he could do that. It wouldn’t have to be in writing at all,” he said. “Administratively, of course, we want things in writing. It makes things a lot simpler, but there’s no constitutional requirement.”

Ashley Murray contributed to this report.&nbsp;

Trump social media post claims to void Biden orders

State Treasurer urges Nebraskans to check for missing money.

Lincoln, Neb. – Nebraska State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg is urging Nebraskans to check for unclaimed property as the state prepares to close out another year of returning millions of dollars to residents.

“The unclaimed property overseen by the Treasurer’s Office doesn’t belong to the state — it belongs to our state’s residents,” Spellerberg said. “Our mission is to reconnect Nebraskans with their unclaimed assets and to make the process as easy as possible.”

As of late November, the Nebraska Unclaimed Property Program had returned approximately $260 million to rightful owners since the program’s inception. Recent returns have ranged from small utility refunds to five-figure stock accounts.

State law requires companies to turn over dormant assets to the Treasurer’s Office, which safeguards them until the rightful owner or heirs make a valid claim. 

The Unclaimed Property Program handles a variety of financial assets, including but not limited to:

- Stock certificates, dividends, and mutual funds; 

Safe deposit box contents are inventoried and kept secure. Some items may be auctioned if unclaimed following the statutory holding period, with proceeds credited to the owner’s claim. Real estate, vehicles, and state tax refunds are not part of the program.

Year to date, the Unclaimed Property Division has returned $16,277,186 across 16,487 claims. 

“Checking the Unclaimed Property website should be a year-end priority for Nebraskans,” said Unclaimed Property Director Meaghan Aguirre. “Search your name and names of your family members. It only takes a minute — and you may find money you were missing.”

How to Check for Unclaimed Property

Nebraska residents should visit the state’s official unclaimed property website at NebraskaLostCash.nebraska.gov. There’s never a fee to search or claim your property. Just enter your name or business name to search. If there’s a match, you can begin the free claim process online.

Individuals who have lived in multiple states should use the multi-state search portal managed by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA): MissingMoney.com. This site allows users to search participating states simultaneously.

For questions, call (877) 572-9688 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CT).

The Nebraska State Treasurer is responsible for the safekeeping and supervision of Nebraska's public funds, and mandated to receive, keep, and disburse all state money. Beyond these core duties, the office administers the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST 529) and Enable Savings Plan; manages and returns unclaimed property; collects and disperses child support payments; and ensures public transparency regarding state spending. 

Spellerberg Highlights Year-End Progress on Returning Unclaimed Property to Nebraskans

 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol, Governor Jim Pillen, and a grateful Nebraska family were pleased to present the NSP Life Saver Award to Trooper Braden Heidbrink.

“Most of you that enter this profession are very humble. You don’t do this job for moments like this,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh. “We sign up to do this job because we genuinely have a passion to serve, to protect, to be there at the most horrible, horrific moment in somebody’s life, that we can hopefully make a difference in that moment.”

On May 10, 2025, Lancaster County 911 received a call of a medical emergency in which a 4-year-old child was severely injured in a lawnmower accident in Hallam. Trooper Heidbrink was the closest first responder and arrived within minutes. Upon arrival, Trooper Heidbrink found the child’s father attempting to care for the child, who had serious injuries to both legs. Trooper Heidbrink quickly applied a tourniquet to the child’s right leg and then bandaged the child’s left leg. Hallam EMS arrived on scene and transported the child, Percy, to the hospital.

The injuries eventually required amputation of Percy’s right leg, but the quick actions of Trooper Heidbrink were credited with saving Percy’s life.

Tuesday, Percy and his family joined NSP, Governor Pillen, Trooper Heidbrink’s family, and several members of Trooper Heidbrink’s National Guard unit for the presentation of the NSP Life Saver Award. Percy also got to show off his prosthetic leg.

“You responded, took care of this little guy in an incredible moment,” Governor Jim Pillen told Trooper Heidbrink. “Amazing stuff. He’s going to have a great life because of what you did in that moment.”

The Nebraska State Patrol salutes Trooper Heidbrink for his exceptional work in a chaotic situation to save Percy’s life and care for the mental wellbeing of Percy’s family after the accident.

NSP Presents Life Saver Award to Trooper Braden Heidbrink

Lincoln, Neb. — The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is pleased to announce the launch of a new online course, Tax Strategies for Farms and Ranches, available beginning Dec. 1.

This is a self-paced course designed specifically for farmers and ranchers seeking to take control of their tax planning. Whether you’re new to tax management or looking to refine your approach, this course provides practical strategies tailored to agricultural producers.

In this course, you will: Strengthen your collaboration with your tax professional to ensure clear communication and effective planning.

Develop a reliable, organized record-keeping system that not only meets tax requirements but also helps you maximize eligible deductions and credits.

Shift your perspective on taxes from simply minimizing what you owe to strategically&nbsp;optimizing your after-tax income for greater financial success.

The course includes curated materials from trusted agricultural tax resources, including USDA, RuralTax.org, and the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska– Lincoln.

“Taxes shouldn’t be something producers only think about once a year,” said Jessica Groskopf, Director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Program. “By taking a more strategic approach, producers can work more effectively with their tax professionals and make decisions that support the long-term success of their farm or ranch.”

Tax Strategies for Farms and Ranches is offered at no cost, but will only be available from Dec. 1, 2025, through Feb. 28, 2026. To enroll, visit: https://go.unl.edu/ae

This course is part of the Agri-Essentials program, supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All participants are welcome regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.

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