Washington D.C. - President Donald J. Trump is calling on Congress to enact what he describes as the Great Healthcare Plan, a sweeping healthcare proposal aimed at lowering prescription drug prices, reducing insurance premiums, increasing transparency, and holding large insurance companies accountable.

According to the administration, the plan is designed to shift the healthcare system away from insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and intermediaries, while placing greater control and purchasing power directly in the hands of American patients.

Trump has framed the proposal as an extension of healthcare policies from his first term, combined with new reforms intended to provide immediate cost relief for individuals and families struggling with rising healthcare expenses.

A major pillar of the Great Healthcare Plan is lowering prescription drug prices by codifying the Trump administration’s Most-Favored-Nation pricing agreements, which would require Americans to pay the same prices for prescription drugs as consumers in other countries.

The administration says this builds on actions taken during Trump’s first term to lower insulin prices, as well as more recent voluntary negotiations following an executive order aimed at reducing drug costs. According to the plan, any voluntarily negotiated agreements with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services would be grandfathered in.

In addition, the plan would expand access to verified, safe pharmaceutical drugs by making more medications available for over-the-counter purchase. The administration says this change would lower healthcare costs by increasing competition, improving price transparency, and reducing the need for doctor visits for routine prescriptions.

The proposal also seeks to reduce insurance premiums by restructuring how federal healthcare subsidies are distributed. Under the Great Healthcare Plan, billions of dollars currently paid to insurance companies through taxpayer-funded subsidies would instead be sent directly to eligible Americans, allowing them to purchase health insurance of their choice.

The plan also includes funding for a cost-sharing reduction program for healthcare plans. According to the administration, this would save taxpayers at least $36 billion and reduce premiums for the most common Affordable Care Act plans by more than 10 percent, based on estimates from the Congressional Budget Office.

Another provision would eliminate what the administration describes as kickbacks paid by pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, to large brokerage middlemen. The plan argues these payments artificially inflate insurance costs and contribute to higher premiums for consumers.

To increase accountability, the Great Healthcare Plan would establish a “Plain English Insurance” standard, requiring health insurance companies to clearly publish rate and coverage comparisons on their websites in language that is easily understood by consumers.

Insurance companies would also be required to disclose how much of their revenue is spent on patient care compared to overhead and profits. Additional reporting requirements would include publishing the percentage of insurance claims that are denied and average wait times for routine care.

The administration says these disclosures would allow consumers to more easily compare insurance plans and make informed decisions when selecting coverage.

The plan further calls for broad price transparency requirements across the healthcare system. Under the proposal, any healthcare provider or insurer that accepts Medicare or Medicaid would be required to prominently post pricing and fees at their place of business.

The administration says this would help eliminate surprise medical bills and allow patients to shop for care based on both cost and quality.

Trump has urged Congress to act quickly on the proposal, arguing that immediate legislative action is necessary to deliver relief to Americans facing high healthcare costs.

The administration describes the Great Healthcare Plan as a comprehensive framework designed to lower costs, increase competition, reduce wasteful spending, and place patients — rather than insurance companies or pharmaceutical interests — at the center of the healthcare system.

If passed, the plan would represent a significant restructuring of how healthcare is priced, purchased, and regulated in the United States.

More information on the proposal is available through the administration’s healthcare policy materials.

🎥Trump Urges Congress to Pass ‘Great Healthcare Plan,’ Citing Drug Prices, Premium Relief, and Transparency

OGALLALA — A lift station failure on Ogallala’s south side last week led to emergency repairs and a temporary, contained discharge into a nearby river, city officials said.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins reported that both pump motors at the lift station failed, causing roughly 200,000 gallons of wastewater to overflow into a low-lying pocket near the dry riverbed. The pumps, originally installed in 2019, were likely undersized for the job, leading to the failure. Alarms designed to alert the city of malfunctions also failed, delaying notification until a property owner noticed the issue.

Emergency crews immediately mobilized vac trucks to transport wastewater while city engineers assessed the damage and implemented temporary fixes. “We pumped a combination of solids and liquids into a depression in the river bottom to minimize impact,” Wilkins said. Officials estimate less than 20,000 gallons of treated effluent entered the river, with no significant impact expected on human health or wildlife.

The repair process is expected to cost approximately $200,000, Wilkins said, and the city is reviewing the lift station’s equipment and alarm systems to prevent future failures.

“This was a contained incident, and we acted quickly to protect property and the environment,” Wilkins said. “We’ll continue monitoring and addressing the remaining mechanical issues at the station.”

Ogallala Lift Station Failure Prompts Emergency Repairs

The Hot Sheets: January 15, 2026

McCOOK, Neb. — Authorities are investigating the death of a man who died while in custody at the Red Willow County Detention Center.

According to the Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, Blaine Allen Frerichs died while being held at the detention center. The incident occurred on Wednesday, Jan. 14.

The Nebraska State Patrol has been called in to conduct an independent investigation. The sheriff’s office reported that McCook Fire Department paramedics and the McCook Police Department initially assisted at the scene.

Officials said that, at this early stage of the investigation, there is no indication of trauma, either self-inflicted or otherwise. An autopsy has been ordered by Red Willow County Attorney Paul Wood to determine the cause of death. Authorities said they are awaiting the results.

The Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Frerichs’ family and friends.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information is expected to be released once it becomes available.

Man Dies While in Custody at Red Willow County Detention Center

Listen to the full interview with Ogallala City Manager Kevin Wilkins on our Kubota Podcast

Ogallala City Council Approves Board Appointments, Infrastructure Plans, and Airport Updates

OGALLALA — The Ogallala City Council kicked off 2026 by approving appointments to multiple city boards, discussing ongoing infrastructure projects, and reviewing plans for airport improvements at Monday night’s meeting.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins highlighted several new board appointments, including the city’s newly formed Historic Preservation Commission. 

“Ogallala is now one of 12 certified local governments with the Nebraska Historic Preservation Commission,” Wilkins said. Barb Jeffries was appointed to a two-year term, and Cody Quinn will serve three years.

 The commission plans to meet January 27, with Nebraska State Historical Preservation Director Kelly Bacon attending to discuss potential updates to the Historic Overlay at Ogallala Middle School.

Additional appointments included Ray Diaz and Jordan Namath to three-year terms on the Planning and Zoning Commission and Richard Kester to the Tree Board. Wilkins encouraged residents interested in trees to apply for the remaining openings.

The council also reviewed updates from the Ogallala YMCA, which has seen growing participation in programs and the city’s pool. Wilkins said the pool’s attendance has “probably tripled” under new management.

 “If you’re going to spend the money, you want to see people using it,” he said. Officials are exploring the possibility of forming a local swim team and expanding youth programming.

Infrastructure needs were also a major topic, including the cost of repairs following a lift station failure on the south side of town. Wilkins explained that the pumps were “probably undersized for the job” and that both failed simultaneously, leading to an emergency discharge of wastewater into a contained area of the river. 

He added, “Fortunately, there was a valve on it, so we got that fixed,” and the city expects the repairs to cost about $200,000.

At the airport, council members approved issuing a request for proposals for a fixed-base operator at Serial Field. Wilkins said the goal is to increase aviation-related business and streamline fuel sales. 

“We would really just like to have more activity at that airport,” he said. Plans include $8 million in runway improvements and additional hangar capacity.

The council also discussed long-term street and drainage projects, including a proposed half-cent infrastructure sales tax aimed at funding repairs while reducing property tax burdens. 

Wilkins said, “Once a lot of your costs are in mobilizing and engineering, you can get some efficiencies. That’s the kind of momentum we need within the community.”

City officials plan to implement online permitting through the Planning and Building Department by February 9 to streamline applications for residents and businesses. 

Wilkins concluded, “We’re just going to keep rocking and rolling in the City of Ogallala.”

🎙️Ogallala City Council Moves Forward on Boards, Infrastructure, and Airport Plans

Listen to the full interview with Lane Anderson on our Kubota Podcast

Keith County, Neb. - Keith County Commissioner Lane Anderson shared updates from the county’s January 14 meeting during a recent radio interview, outlining several ongoing projects and administrative actions.

Among the key items discussed were the setting of county elected official salaries and the county’s insurance renewal process. The board also completed its annual reorganization, with Corey Crandall continuing as chairman of the Keith County Board of Commissioners.

Commissioners reviewed year-end reports and discussed creating a nuisance application process that could be used when applying for nuisance-related grants. The county highway department completed its annual fuel bids and recently purchased a scraper and disc in an effort to improve county road maintenance.

Anderson also noted recent personnel changes. Longtime Keith County employee Lori Hood retired after 40 years of service. Commissioners appointed J.D. Cartwright to fill her role as the county’s new Emergency Operations Center director.

Additional updates included ongoing EMS-related discussions, current jail population numbers, and road conditions impacted by dry winter weather. Anderson said he plans to provide regular monthly updates moving forward and confirmed he will be running for re-election this year.

🎙️Keith County Commissioners January 14 Update

Ogallala YMCA to Host ‘Try the Y Day’ Open House Jan. 23

Listen to the full interview with Conrad Bostron and Melissa Ewart on our Kubota Podcast

Ogallala, Neb. - The Ogallala YMCA is inviting community members to explore its facility, programs, and recent growth during a special open house event later this month.

The event, called “Try the Y Day,” is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 23, with extended hours from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. According to Melissa Ewart, Branch Executive Director of the Ogallala YMCA, the open house is designed to make the YMCA more approachable for newcomers and those curious about recent changes.

During the one-day event, visitors can receive 50% off daily admission fees with full facility access and 10% off annual memberships purchased that day. Attendees will also have the opportunity to try a Boot Camp class at 5:30 p.m., along with free 20-minute personal training consultations with trainer Amber Hilton. Appointments can be scheduled by calling the YMCA or by emailing <a>ahilton@ymcaofscottsbluff.org</a>.

In addition to fitness opportunities, AK Coffee will be on site, and attendees can enter drawings for YMCA prizes throughout the day.

Ewart said the idea behind Try the Y Day is to create a welcoming environment, especially for those who may feel unsure about starting a new workout routine or joining a class. YMCA staff will be available to assist guests with equipment and answer questions.

YMCA CEO Conrad Bostron said the Ogallala branch has seen significant momentum over the past year. During a recent update to the Ogallala City Council, YMCA leadership reported the branch exceeded its first-year budgeted goals by 200%. The facility has also officially been recognized as an independent YMCA branch under the Scotts Bluff umbrella.

The Ogallala YMCA recently hosted its first NSAA-sanctioned high school swim meet, drawing more than 90 participants from Ogallala, North Platte, McCook, and the Scottsbluff-Gering area. Officials confirmed the pool meets the 25-yard requirement, allowing the facility to host future swim competitions.

Youth sports participation continues to grow, with 112 children currently registered for YMCA basketball. Basketball registration remains open until 1 p.m. Mountain Time today, with a $40 registration fee per child. Games will be played on Sunday afternoons. The YMCA is still seeking one to two additional volunteer coaches, particularly for the third-through-fifth-grade and preschool-kindergarten divisions. Volunteer coaches receive credit toward a future YMCA program.

Additional updates include the hiring of Shelby Boer as programs coordinator, who will help oversee youth sports, swim lessons, and upcoming programs. Looking ahead, the YMCA will assume operation of the community after-school program beginning with the 2026 school year under the name YMCA Kids Corner, with current director Keri Curtis remaining in her role.

Community members are encouraged to attend Try the Y Day on Jan. 23 to tour the facility, meet staff, and take advantage of the one-day discounts.

🎙️Ogallala YMCA Builds Momentum, Exceeds Financial Goals and Announces ‘Try the Y Day’ Open House

The Hot Sheets: January 14, 2026

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Maywood, Neb. — Nicholas “Nick” High, 29, a former teacher and coach at Maywood Public Schools, was sentenced this morning, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, following his no-contest plea to multiple charges involving sexual misconduct with minors.

Allegations in the case stemmed from multiple incidents involving different minors spanning from 2020 through 2024, according to the amended complaint.

High had pleaded no contest in Frontier County District Court to the amended counts on October 22, 2025. A no-contest plea does not admit guilt but is treated the same as a guilty plea for sentencing purposes.

High was sentenced to 90 days in jail, followed by five years of probation, and will be required to register as a sex offender for 25 years. The sentencing hearing was held at 9 a.m. in Red Willow County District Court following his plea.

The case drew attention due to High’s position as a teacher and coach, raising concerns about the abuse of authority in educational settings.

Maywood Teacher Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of Minors

On Monday, January 12, 2026, the Perkins County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious green pickup that had pulled into and parked at an abandoned rural farmstead southeast of Venango, Nebraska.

The Sheriff responded and detained Lindsey N. Bartorelli, who was snooping around in a dilapidated building.  She did not have permission nor was she able to provide a reasonable explanation for being on the property, which was clearly posted with more than a few “No Trespassing” signs.  A Chase County Sheriff's Office deputy later arrived to assist as well.  Bartorelli was soon placed under arrest for second-degree trespassing and driving under suspension, resulting in an all expenses paid trip to the Keith County Jail.

The pickup was subsequently towed and impounded, and during the routine inventory of the vehicle, a container with several grams of suspected methamphetamine (yuck) was located among Bartorelli’s belongings, of which may cause her to catch another charge.

All suspects, including Bartorelli, are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, regardless of how questionable their choice of parking location may have been.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trespassing Arrest in Venango Leads to Possible Drug Charge

Listen to the full interview with Seth Schneider on our Kubota Podcast

Hershey, Neb. — Most people recognize the sound of an auctioneer the moment they hear it. Few stop to think about how someone learns to do it — or how far that skill can take them.

For Seth Schneider of Hershey, Nebraska, it has taken him to the national stage.

Schneider recently placed in the top 10 at a World Livestock Auctioneer Championship qualifying event in Bowman, North Dakota. The finish earned him a spot in the 2026 World Livestock Auctioneer Championship, which will be held in St. Onge, South Dakota.

His path into auctioneering started early and close to home.

“It kind of runs in the family,” Schneider said. “My great-grandpa and my uncle were both auctioneers.”

As a kid, Schneider spent time at the sale barn with his grandmother, who fed a few head of cattle each year. Listening to auctioneers call bids left a strong impression.

“I just always loved listening to the auctioneer,” he said. “That’s when I decided it was something I wanted to do.”

By the time he was six or seven years old, Schneider was already practicing his chant. As he got older, sports and school took more of his time, but the interest never fully went away. In high school, a conversation with his agriculture teacher brought the idea back into focus.

“That’s when it really clicked,” Schneider said. “It just made sense.”

Learning to auction wasn’t easy. Schneider said it takes time and steady practice to find the right rhythm — and even more work to keep it sharp.

“Once you get your chant down, it starts to feel natural,” he said. “But it takes constant practice.”

That work paid off at the Bowman qualifying event, which was hosted by Sioux Falls Regional Livestock of Worthing, South Dakota. The contest marked Schneider’s fourth Livestock Marketing Association qualifying event.

When officials announced the top 10 finishers, Schneider’s name was called last.

“They definitely made me wait,” he said. “I was surprised, but really grateful.”

The competition drew auctioneers from across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Schneider said staying relaxed was important, especially before taking the block.

“You just try to stay calm, visit with people and keep your nerves under control,” he said.

Schneider now works weekly at the North Platte Stockyards and credits much of his growth to mentorship and experience.

“I’m lucky to work behind a really good mentor in Kyle Scowl,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot from him.”

While auctioneering often sounds fast and technical, Schneider said the job is really about people.

“For a lot of producers, selling cattle is their main paycheck for the year,” he said. “Being able to represent them and do a good job for them means a lot.”

Nebraska has a strong history in the World Livestock Auctioneer Championship, though it has been nearly two decades since the state last claimed the top title. The most recent Nebraska world champion was Matt Lowery of Burwell, who won the championship in 2008.

Despite the national recognition, Schneider said his focus remains the same.

“I just want to keep getting better and do the best job I can every week,” he said.

The 2026 World Livestock Auctioneer Championship will be livestreamed on the Livestock Marketing Association’s YouTube page, with a televised special later airing on RFD-TV.

For young people interested in auctioneering, Schneider said persistence matters.

“Don’t get discouraged,” he said. “Find a mentor and keep practicing.”

From family roots to a place on the world stage, Schneider’s story reflects both the tradition and the future of auctioneering in western Nebraska.

🎙️Western Nebraska Auctioneer Qualifies for World Championship

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 an encouraging performance in the first game back from winter break against McCook Community College and what they need to do going forward to continue this form.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #8 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 talk about the positive impact last Saturday's victory over McCook Community College had on the team so far. Also, what to expect from the team going forward as region play begins.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #12 2026 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 welcomed back Coach to discuss all things first semester and share his goals and expectations for his players heading into the second half of the season.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #11 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Listen to the full interview with Kerri Anderson on our Kubota Podcast

OGALLALA — Local women are proving that small contributions can make a big difference with 100+ Women Who Care – Keith County, a group that combines resources to support nonprofit organizations throughout the county.

The group, organized in 2019, meets four times a year for just one hour, with members contributing $100 each per meeting. The collective donations, often totaling more than $10,000 per quarter, go directly to local charities selected by majority vote at each meeting. Since its first gathering in January 2020, the Keith County chapter has donated more than $233,000 to area nonprofits.

“Even as individuals, it would be difficult to make this kind of impact,” said Keri Anderson, one of the organizers. “But when we come together, the difference we can make for our community is huge.”

Meetings are held upstairs at Front Street in the Hayloft in Ogallala, with women arriving at 5 p.m. for an optional meal and the meeting starting promptly at 6 p.m. Each session features three nonprofits presenting their case for funding with 10-minute presentations and five minutes for questions. Ballots are then counted and the winning organization announced that night, with new presenters drawn for the following quarter.

The group serves communities across Keith County, including Ogallala, Paxton, Keystone, Lemoyne, and Brule. Over the years, donations have supported a wide range of local causes, including, but not limited to, the Paxton Library, Keith County Historical Society, senior centers, Friends of the FFA, Royal Family Kids Camp, the American Legion Post 135, the Regional Arts Council, the Food Pantry, the Backpack Program, and Bridge of Hope.

Anderson said the Paxton Library, the group’s first recipient, had an annual budget of less than $5,000. The $10,000 donation allowed the library to expand services and resources significantly. 

“For them to receive that kind of support in one giving was incredible,” Anderson said.

The upcoming January 12 meeting will feature presentations from Keep Keith County Beautiful, the Backpack Program, and First Impressions. Anderson encourages women interested in joining to attend, even without committing immediately. 

“Come see what it’s all about, talk to the organizations, and see the impact firsthand,” she said.

Meals for the January 12 meeting are optional and require advance orders. Options include creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne for $15, chicken corn chowder soup in a bread bowl for $12, and grilled steak tips with mashed potatoes and asparagus for $21. Meal orders must be submitted by 8 a.m. Sunday, though women who do not plan to eat are welcome to attend the meeting at 6 p.m.

Anderson said the group’s impact goes beyond the money donated. “Sometimes you can talk yourself out of giving $50 or $100, but when you join together with a hundred women or more, the impact is huge. Watching these organizations receive funding, seeing their reaction — it’s overwhelming and emotional, and it makes it worth every minute,” she said.

100+ Women Who Care – Keith County offers a simple, meaningful way for women to give back, connect with other community members, and make a lasting local impact — all in just one hour per quarter.

The next meeting is Monday, January 12, with meal beginning at 5 p.m. , upstairs at Front Street Steakhouse and the meeting will begin promptly at 6 p.m. If you plan to join the meal portion of the evening, RSVP with meal choices must be in by 8 a.m. on January 8.

🎙️100+ Women Who Care – Keith County Brings Big Impact to Local Charities 

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Hear the full interview with Paxton Gordon on our Kubota Podcast

Eagle Communications in North Platte is entering a new chapter with the promotion of Paxton Gordon to Operations Manager, a move that reflects both the company’s commitment to internal growth and Gordon’s steady rise within the organization.

Gordon officially stepped into the role at the start of the new year after longtime Operations Manager Derek Beck departed Eagle Communications to pursue his own venture, Your Ag Network. Beck had worked for Eagle Communications for just over five years, celebrating his five-year Eagle anniversary in December.

Beck’s departure followed months of transition planning, allowing for a smooth handoff of responsibilities and providing Gordon time to prepare for the role.

For Gordon, the promotion represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Now overseeing operations for five Eagle radio stations in North Platte, he is responsible for keeping the day-to-day mechanics of the stations running while supporting on-air staff, production, and sports coverage.

“They’re like my children now,” Gordon said, referring to the stations. “I have to always worry about them.”

Gordon, a Kansas State University graduate, earned his degree in Mass Communications and Journalism from the A.Q. Miller School of Journalism. His path into broadcasting, however, was not a straightforward one. He initially entered college planning to follow family members into aerospace engineering before realizing that career path wasn’t the right fit.

Radio, it turned out, had already been quietly shaping his future.

Growing up, Gordon spent his early morning drives to school listening to a local sports radio show hosted by broadcaster Jim Davis, whom he still considers an inspiration. That daily routine sparked an interest that followed him through high school and into college, eventually steering him toward broadcasting.

With encouragement from his mother—who reminded him that his love of talking could be turned into a career—and guidance from industry professionals, Gordon began to seriously consider radio. A pivotal moment came during a conversation with longtime Kansas State play-by-play broadcaster Wyatt Thompson, who helped Gordon better understand the possibilities within the field.

“That was really the start of everything,” Gordon said, reflecting on the moment he realized radio could be his future.

After graduating in 2021, Gordon accepted his first broadcasting position in Marysville, Kansas. While the job provided valuable experience, the daily hour-long commute prompted him to explore other opportunities. After interning for Eagle in Manhattan, KS he was eventually offered the full-time Sports Director position in North Platte.

Gordon relocated to North Platte within weeks and quickly became a familiar voice across Eagle’s stations. In addition to sports coverage, he took on production responsibilities, steadily expanding his role behind the scenes.

Now nearing four years with the company, Gordon’s promotion to Operations Manager aligns with Eagle Communications’ long-standing practice of promoting from within.

“It’s one big family,” Gordon said. “They like to keep things internal, reward people who work hard, and keep good people around.”

Stepping into the Operations Manager role means following Beck, whom Gordon credits as both a mentor and a respected leader during his five-plus years with the company.

“Derek’s a superstar in terms of what he’s done,” Gordon said. “There are big shoes to fill.”

In the short term, Gordon will continue handling sports duties through the end of basketball season. Coverage of North Platte Community College and North Platte High School games will remain unchanged for now, with a transition planned as Eagle moves into spring sports. Eagle Communications is actively working to fill the Sports Director and Production Manager position, allowing Gordon to fully focus on his expanded leadership role.

Despite recent staffing changes across departments, Gordon emphasized that listeners should not expect major disruptions.

“We’ve been pretty adaptable over the last few years,” he said. “I don’t think anything too drastic is going to change.”

Those changes include on-air schedule adjustments and internal role shifts that Gordon believes strengthen the overall lineup while maintaining the consistency radio audiences value.

Even as the youngest member of the office, Gordon now leads the North Platte operation, a responsibility he approaches with humility and humor. He credits teamwork, routine, and what he jokingly refers to as the office’s “feng shui” for keeping things running smoothly.

“It’s definitely a little weird,” he said of the transition. “But it was time to take on a new challenge.”

As he begins his first full week as Operations Manager, Gordon remains focused on stability, growth, and serving the North Platte community through local radio.

“Nothing’s really going to change,” Gordon said. “It’s going to be the same great radio. We’re going to put in the effort and do the best we can.”

For Eagle Communications in North Platte, Gordon’s promotion signals continuity backed by fresh leadership—grounded in experience, familiarity, and a genuine passion for radio.

🎙️Paxton Gordon Takes on Operations Manager Role at Eagle Communications in North Platte

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

While we are still early in the new year, it is time to start thinking about any spring annual forages that we might plant. &nbsp;Part of the process may be anticipating a need for extra feed or booking seed early for possible discounts.

For spring or cool-season annual forages, the planting period is typically mid to late March to early April, or when soil temperatures are in the 42 to 45 degree range. &nbsp;Oats is probably the most common cool-season annual forage planted in Nebraska. &nbsp;However, spring triticale or spring barley are two other small grain options that have been found to perform similarly to oats in terms of forage yield and quality. &nbsp;

Also similar is the number of days until ready to begin grazing or hay; so, the different species could be mixed if desired. &nbsp;One could look at seed cost of the different species before making a decision. &nbsp; With the early spring planting date of the cool-season annuals, grazing can typically begin around the 3rd or 4th week of May and last into early July. &nbsp;Haying usually take place around the 3rd week of June.

If grazing is a primary goal, Italian ryegrass could be included in a mix with the cereal grains and this will result in a longer grazing period. &nbsp;Field peas are another species that could be included to enhance forage quality and provide some nitrogen fixation. &nbsp;

Remember to consider the herbicides that may have been used on a field the previous year. &nbsp;Some herbicides may have long residuals that could hinder establishment even into this spring.

Forage Minute: Planning For Spring Annual Forages

By:<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/max-nesterak/">Max Nesterak</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/alyssachen/">Alyssa Chen</a> <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump threatened on Thursday morning to send the military into Minnesota to stop protests, following another shooting by immigration agents that injured one person, seven days after an agent fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis.

Writing on his own social media platform, Trump said he would invoke the Insurrection Act, a 19th-century law empowering the government to deploy the military domestically to “repress insurrections and repel invasions.”

“If the corrupt politicians of Minnesota don’t obey the law and stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking the Patriots of I.C.E., who are only trying to do their job, I will institute the INSURRECTION ACT, which many Presidents have done before me, and quickly put an end to the travesty that is taking place in that once great State. Thank you for you attention to this matter! President DJT,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/115899252938886431" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on Truth Social.

The law grants an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the military from performing domestic law enforcement.

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