HHS Protects Parents’ Rights in Children’s Health Decisions

WASHINGTON&nbsp; — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced strong actions to protect the rights of parents within the practice of pediatric medicine. HHS opened an investigation into a complaint that a Midwestern school illegally vaccinated a child with a federally provided vaccine without the parents’ consent by ignoring a religious exemption submitted under a state law. HHS also issued a <a href="/sites/default/files/ocr-letter-hipaa-privacy-rule-and-parental-access-to-minor-childrens-medical-records.pdf" target="_blank">Dear Colleague letter [PDF, 265 KB]</a> reminding health care providers about federal law requiring them to provide parents access to their children’s health information. In addition, the Department directed the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to add a grant requirement stating that all funding recipients must comply with all applicable federal and state parental-consent laws for any services or care provided to minors at HRSA-supported health centers as a condition of receiving Health Center Program funds.

“Today, we are putting pediatric medical professionals on notice: you cannot sideline parents,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “When providers ignore parental consent, violate exemptions to vaccine mandates, or keep parents in the dark about their children’s care, we will act decisively. We will use every tool at our disposal to protect families and restore accountability.”

The investigation by HHS’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) into the reported violation of the exemption from vaccination will examine whether the school failed to comply with the Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) requirement that conditions federal provision of vaccines for immunization on compliance with state religious and other exemptions from compulsory vaccination. OCR will also examine how the state agency and school district process religious exemption requests to ensure compliance with state law when implementing the VFC program. Program providers receive vaccines purchased for the VFC by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“The Vaccines for Children Program should never circumvent parents’ rights,” said Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary and CDC Acting Director Jim O’Neill. “Secretary Kennedy’s decision to probe potential abuse of the VFC is a necessary step in restoring public trust in immunization policy.”

OCR’s letter to health care providers spells out parents’ right to access their children’s protected health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy Rule. Under the Privacy Rule, a parent is the personal representative of his or her minor child where the parent has the legal authority to make health care decisions for the child. The letter reinforces that parents who are their children’s personal representatives can exercise their children’s rights with respect to protected health information, including the right of access. OCR is also initiating compliance reviews of a number of large health care providers to ensure that parents receive timely access to their children’s health information.

As part of these actions to protect parents’ rights, HRSA is directly addressing the parental consent obligations that apply to HRSA-supported services for minors. Before a minor receives medical, dental, behavioral health, or other services at a HRSA-supported health center, the center must obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian in accordance with applicable state or federal law. This requirement applies to all forms of care, including treatment, preventive services, counseling, and services involving sensitive topics such as sexual identity or reproductive health. Existing state, federal, and local laws on parental consent and notification already apply, and HRSA is now clearly detailing these expectations as a condition of receiving Health Center Program funding. HRSA will also send a notice to grant recipients outlining this obligation.

If you believe that you or another person’s health information privacy or civil rights have been violated, you can <a href="/ocr/complaints/index.html">file a complaint</a> with OCR.

HHS Investigating Midwestern School for Child Vaccinations Lacking Parental Consent

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

LINCOLN COUNTY — A Hershey man died early Saturday morning following a single-vehicle rollover crash on Highway 30.

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 5:30 a.m. on November 29 to mile marker 167, about three miles east of Hershey. When they arrived, they found a pickup that had gone into the north ditch and rolled partially onto its side.

The driver and sole occupant, 41-year-old Johan Groenewald of Hershey, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators say winter road conditions and the lack of a seatbelt are believed to be contributing factors in the crash.

Hershey Man Killed in Early-Morning Rollover Crash

Natalie Jones | IANR Communications

LINCOLN, Neb. —&nbsp;Nebraska’s grasslands — vital to the state’s economy, environment and cultural heritage — are being highlighted in a new series of public service announcements featuring legendary Nebraska volleyball coach John Cook.

The PSAs, produced by Platte Basin Time-lapse in collaboration with the Nebraska Grassland Alliance, the Nebraska Section of the Society for Range Management, and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Center for Grassland Studies, will launch this fall in anticipation of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.

Filmed at the historic Pitzer Ranch near Ericson, the campaign showcases Nebraska’s sweeping prairies while underscoring their global significance. In the videos, Cook speaks about the value of teamwork, resilience and stewardship — qualities that connect volleyball and ranching, and that reflect Nebraska’s land-grant tradition of serving people, land and communities.

"Our grasslands define Nebraska," Cook said. "They sustain our cattle industry, they provide habitat for wildlife, and they shape the character of our state. This is about protecting something that matters deeply — for us and for the generations who will follow."

The importance of grasslands extends beyond their ecological significance. Across Nebraska, grasslands serve as:

The PSA campaign is part of IANR’s ongoing work to connect Nebraskans with the land and natural resources that sustain them. Organizers are also exploring opportunities for the videos to be shown at Nebraska athletic events this fall, bringing the message to Husker fans statewide.

"As a land-grant institution, we have a responsibility to educate and engage Nebraskans about the resources that sustain our economy, environment, and communities," said Dave Wedin, director of the Center for Grassland Studies. "This campaign is a powerful way to do just that."

To learn more about Nebraska’s celebration of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=4lZy~GDDJFPP6HOtyt~OV.Oh2q-giQ~0k~sxkKI4KXTO5HR9_Uy7x.Ft1HCRzk~w_x6xXHbLJGGa6XJ82N~FYONy1XUo" target="_blank">www.nebraskasgrasslands.org</a>.

John Cook Champions Nebraska Grasslands in New PSA Campaign

McCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an incident in which a McCook resident died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot while speaking on the phone with McCook police officers.

Monday afternoon, the McCook Police Department received a 911 call from a McCook resident reporting that he was considering self-harm. Officers responded to the location in the 600 block of West F Street.

Officers contacted the person via phone and spoke for several minutes. During the phone call, officers heard a gunshot inside the home. Officers entered the home and found the man with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. They attempted life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nobody else in the house at the time of the incident.

No officers discharged their weapons during this incident. Because the death occurred during contact with law enforcement officers, the Red Willow County Attorney has requested the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the grand jury investigation.

School had already been dismissed at McCook High School, but because of the proximity to the scene, the school went into secure status during after-school practices and activities.

NSP Investigating Apparent Suicide in McCook

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

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

By Ariana Figueroa | Nebraska Examiner

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration Thursday announced new restrictions for immigrants, reducing the work authorization periods from five years to 18 months, the latest crackdown on legal immigration.

The new policy follows the shooting of two West Virginia National Guard members by an Afghan national granted asylum earlier this year.&nbsp;

The shift will not only affect hundreds of thousands of immigrants, but the shortened period for work authorization could create massive backlogs at the agency responsible for processing legal immigration requests, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.&nbsp;

“Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorization will ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies,” USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said in a statement.

“After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation’s capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it’s even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens,” he continued.&nbsp;

Immigrants affected by the new changes include refugees; those granted asylum; those with a withholding of removal; those with pending applications for asylum or withholding of removal; those adjusting their status, for example by gaining a green card; and those who fall under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act of 1997.

That act applies to&nbsp;certain Nicaraguans, Cubans, Salvadorans, Guatemalans, nationals of former Soviet bloc countries and their dependents who in the 1990s had applied for asylum and were systematically denied.

Additionally, USCIS fees for applying for permits and other paperwork&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/07/22/2025-13738/uscis-immigration-fees-required-by-hr-1-reconciliation-bill" target="_blank">increased</a>&nbsp;as a result of the massive tax and spending passage that Republicans passed over the summer and President Donald Trump signed into law. For initial employment authorization, fees are now $550 and $275 to renew.&nbsp;

Following the shooting,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/one-national-guard-members-shot-attack-dc-has-died-trump-says" target="_blank">U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20,&nbsp;</a>died. A second guard member, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains critically wounded but hospitalized in stable condition.&nbsp;

In response, the Trump administration has ramped up its crackdown on legal immigration and highlighted the need for its mass deportation campaign. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/suspect-west-virginia-national-guard-shooting-pleads-not-guilty-dc-court" target="_blank">pleaded not guilty</a>&nbsp;to several charges in court on Tuesday.&nbsp;

This week, all immigration applications from 19 countries listed on Trump’s “high-risk” countries or travel ban from earlier this year,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-administration-puts-hold-immigration-applications-19-nations" target="_blank">were paused</a>&nbsp;— a move that freezes processing for green card holders and citizenship applications.

U.S. work authorizations for legal immigrants slashed from 5 years to 18 months

Netflix has announced a historic agreement to acquire Warner Bros.’ film and television studios, along with its streaming operations—including HBO and HBO Max—in a deal valued at approximately $82.7 billion. The transaction includes an equity value of roughly $72 billion and marks one of the largest entertainment mergers in Hollywood history.

Under the terms of the agreement, Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders will receive $23.25 in cash and $4.50 in Netflix stock per share. The deal depends on the planned separation of Warner Bros.’ Global Networks division, which includes cable brands such as CNN and TNT. That spinoff is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026, clearing the way for final regulatory reviews of the acquisition. Both companies expect the merger to close within 12 to 18 months.

If approved, Netflix will gain control of Warner Bros.’ vast film and television library, including decades of cinematic classics, major franchises, and HBO’s award-winning slate of prestige series. Netflix leaders say they plan to continue theatrical releases for Warner Bros. films and maintain the studio’s existing operations while integrating its content strategy into Netflix's global streaming platform.

Netflix’s leaders described the acquisition as an opportunity to combine the company’s streaming reach with Warner Bros.’ legacy of storytelling. The move is also expected to substantially boost Netflix’s in-house production capabilities, reduce reliance on external studios, and position the company as an even more dominant force in the increasingly competitive streaming landscape. Analysts note that Netflix will become not just the world’s largest streamer, but one of its most powerful entertainment studios.

The acquisition is projected to deliver between $2 billion and $3 billion in annual cost savings within three years of closing. These savings could be used to fund new content production, streamline operations, or offset the significant financing behind the deal.

However, the merger faces significant regulatory challenges. Antitrust experts are already raising concerns about the impact of consolidating two major powerhouses of film, television, and streaming under one corporate umbrella. Critics argue that such a merger could limit competition, reduce consumer choice, and give Netflix outsized influence over what audiences are able to watch. Regulators in the U.S. and Europe are expected to scrutinize the agreement heavily before granting approval.

There are also unanswered questions about the future of HBO Max and how its programming will be folded into Netflix’s platform. Industry observers are watching closely to see whether Netflix will maintain separate brands, merge content libraries, or restructure its subscription model in response to the acquisition.

For Hollywood, the deal represents a dramatic shift in the balance of power. Studios, theaters, creators, and competing streaming services will all be affected as Netflix evolves into a production and distribution giant with both streaming reach and deep ownership of legacy content.

For viewers, the acquisition could ultimately bring a wider range of shows and films under one subscription, although the long-term effects on pricing, availability, and content strategies remain unknown.

If the merger clears regulatory hurdles, 2026 may become a defining year for the entertainment industry—one that cements the dominance of streaming and marks the most significant realignment in Hollywood in more than a decade.

Netflix Announces $82.7 Billion Deal to Acquire Warner Bros., Reshaping Hollywood

State workers sound alarms about state agency staffing reductions aimed at balancing Nebraska’s budget

LINCOLN — After state officials initially said Nebraska had made zero cuts to the workforce of the state’s Department of Economic Development, they acknowledged the department has paid roughly 22 fewer full-time employees over the past two months.

Similar workforce reductions have also impacted various other state agencies, prompting new concerns from some frontline workers that Gov. Jim Pillen and his administration are focusing on staff cuts to balance Nebraska’s budget.

A department spokesman, working with the Governor’s Office, initially said, in response to a reporter’s questions, that DED had seen “0 layoffs/reductions in force” in September and October, when the Examiner first asked in early November. The department noted it had seen voluntary departures from posts and would not fill some vacated positions but did not specify how many.

The state clarified the disconnect after payroll records obtained by the Examiner from the Department of Administrative Services in recent weeks indicated 112 full-time employees on DED’s payroll in September, then 101 in October and 93 in November.

Justin Pinkerman, a spokesperson for the Department of Economic Development, acknowledged this week that DED was down to just over 90 filled full-time positions by the end of November.

Governor’s Office spokeswoman Laura Strimple, in a separate statement clarifying what the department previously sent, said all of the reductions in full-time staff from September to November had been voluntary. And the department, via Pinkerman, says the downsizing is part of a winding down of pandemic-era programs.

Last month, Pinkerman had said DED eliminated only a single position this summer, that of Deputy Director of Operations Joe Lauber.

The DED downsizing comes as other cuts have impacted different state agencies, including the Nebraska Department of Revenue. The state laid off 11 revenue agents in October, closed the department’s Scottsbluff office and shrank its Lincoln-based individual income tax collections office.

At a press conference this week for a union representing state employees, the Nebraska Association of Public Employees, Executive Director Justin Hubly said reducing revenue agents when the state is short of funds was a “bananas decision” considering that State Auditor Mike Foley recently reported that&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/17/unpaid-state-taxes-soar-and-nebraska-auditor-questions-why/">unpaid state taxes had grown 15% over the past year</a>, rising above $310 million.

Additionally, Hubly said at least four employees were cut from the state Office of the Chief Information Officer. He said smaller cuts have impacted several other departments in recent months.

At DED, evidence suggests that the majority of the downsizing was focused on managerial and higher-up positions not covered by union protections. Hubly said NAPE logged about seven voluntary departures within DED between June and November. NAPE represents roughly 55-60 DED workers, he said.

Lauber, who served as DED’s deputy director of operations and its chief legal counsel, said in August he was told his position had been eliminated due to budget cuts, and he was escorted out of the building. He had worked at DED for 13 years.

“It came as quite a shock to me,” Lauber said of his dismissal.

Prior to his termination, Lauber said there were signs of budget cuts impacting DED, like hiring freezes and directives to stop travel. He said during a management meeting he attended, then-interim director Maureen Larsen shared that it was the governor’s goal to reduce the size of DED through attrition.

Agencies often do this by not filling positions people vacated through retirements and having or encouraging people to leave on their own. Lauber said the state implemented strategies such as&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/02/nebraska-supreme-court-considers-state-bargaining-remote-work-dispute/">Pillen’s return-to-work order</a>&nbsp;and enforcing a strict 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. work schedule in hopes of getting people to consider whether they wanted to stay working for the department. Lauber said employees were not allowed to end their days earlier than 4:30 p.m.

Hubly said NAPE workers in other state agencies have also seen a pattern of the state cutting jobs this year to save cash.

Pillen has discussed his intent to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/07/16/gov-jim-pillen-touts-new-nebraska-efficiencies-as-he-seeks-500-million-budget-cut/">cut Nebraska’s two-year budget by $500 million</a>&nbsp;by the end of lawmakers’ 60-day legislative session in 2026. Lawmakers will enter the 2026 legislative session needing to fill&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/19/nebraskas-projected-budget-deficit-grows-to-471-million-ahead-of-2026-legislative-session/">a projected $471 million budget hole</a>.

Hubly suggested the state implement retirement incentives as a way of tightening the budget, arguing that hiring younger workers would reduce staffing costs. Hubly said the governor rejected this proposal.

Pillen recently named Larsen the permanent DED director after she had served as interim director since July following former director K.C. Belitz’ resignation. Belitz did not return a request for comment.

Prior to her appointment, Larsen served as Pillen’s general counsel and deputy director of his Policy Research Office. Hubly said he’s heard some concerns from workers that Larsen was appointed as director as part of a “hatchet job,” a term often used for someone hired to cut staff, due to a lack of outreach she did with the rest of the department.

“We did hear a lot of concerns when she was kind of installed temporarily,” Hubly said. “She wasn’t out and about, she wasn’t introducing herself to people. So I think there was kind of this general consensus from people we talked to that was like, ‘She’s here to do a hatchet job and get rid of people.’”

Larsen did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Pinkerman, reaching out on her behalf, said DED “experienced dramatic growth following the coronavirus pandemic.”

Pinkerman shared data showing that between 2020 to 2023, the department’s full-time staff grew by about 10-15 people per year. It reached a peak of about 114 filled full-time positions on June 30 of this year, which has since dropped to around 90.

Larsen took over as interim DED director on July 21.

“As DED winds down pandemic-era economic recovery programs and identifies greater operational efficiencies, not all positions that come open are being filled,” Pinkerman said in an email.

Hubly called on the Nebraska Legislature to protect frontline workers when debating budget adjustments this spring, arguing that staff cuts should be the last place state officials look to fill the deficit.

Instead, he proposed searching for new revenue sources or surveying state workers for ways to improve efficiencies.

“It is not possible to continually cut positions and increase workloads on state employees and not affect the quality of the services the employees provide,” Hubly said.

Editor’s note: This story has been revised to clarify the timeline of answers from the Nebraska Governor’s Office and the Department of Economic Development.

Nebraska Economic Development paying 22 fewer full-time staff in last 2 months

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a>

The U.S. Supreme Court said Friday justices will hear a case to decide if President Donald Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship is constitutional.

The court agreed to hear a case, before it is decided in a lower court, that deals with the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which grants citizenship to almost everyone born in the United States. The amendment’s birthright citizenship clause has been used to give citizenship to the children of immigrants in the country without legal authorization or on a temporary basis.

While a schedule for arguments has not yet been released by the court, it’s likely the case would be heard sometime in early 2026.

The Trump administration argued in its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/25/25-365/378052/20250926163053178_TrumpvBarbaraCertPet.pdf" target="_blank">petition</a>&nbsp;to the court that the amendment, which was adopted in 1868, was meant to apply to newly freed slaves. It was not meant to provide citizenship to the children of immigrants without legal status, Solicitor General D. John Sauer wrote.

“Long after the Clause’s adoption, the mistaken view that birth on U.S. territory confers citizenship on anyone subject to the regulatory reach of U.S. law became pervasive, with destructive consequences,” Sauer&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/2025/09/29/repub/trump-asks-us-supreme-court-to-take-birthright-citizenship-case/" target="_blank">wrote in the September petition.</a>

The petition also sought Supreme Court review of a related challenge to the order by the states of Washington, Arizona, Illinois and Oregon. Friday’s court order did not grant a hearing on that case.

Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 20 seeking to redefine the birthright citizenship clause to exclude the children of immigrants in the country without legal authority or only temporarily. Democratic-led states and advocacy groups swiftly sued.

Courts have largely blocked enforcement of the order, although the Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/06/27/repub/us-supreme-court-limits-injunctions-allows-trump-to-act-on-birthright-citizenship-ban/" target="_blank">in June allowed it&nbsp;</a>to go into effect in the states that had not sued to preserve the right.

In a Friday afternoon statement, the American Civil Liberties Union, a leading civil rights group, noted that several federal judges had blocked enforcement and predicted the Supreme Court would preserve birthright citizenship.

“No president can change the 14th Amendment’s fundamental promise of citizenship,” Cecillia Wang, ACLU’s national legal director, said. “For over 150 years, it has been the law and our national tradition that everyone born on U.S. soil is a citizen from birth. The federal courts have unanimously held that President Trump’s executive order is contrary to the Constitution, a Supreme Court decision from 1898, and a law enacted by Congress. We look forward to putting this issue to rest once and for all in the Supreme Court this term.”

Trump order ending birthright citizenship to be argued at US Supreme Court

🎥FIFA awards President Trump their first peace prize

December 4, 2025&nbsp;– CBI&nbsp;–&nbsp;&nbsp;Bailey, CO –&nbsp;The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in collaboration with the Park County Sheriff’s Office and the Park County Coroner’s Office, is making a renewed and expanded appeal for public assistance in identifying a man whose remains were discovered last year.

To aid in the identification, a forensic facial reconstruction expert was utilized to create a forensic sculpture that may resemble the unidentified man, often referred to as a "John Doe" in these cases.

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