Keith County, NE – Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses across Keith County will be honored at the annual Ag Appreciation Banquet, hosted by the Keith County Chamber of Commerce. The event takes place Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Keith County Fairgrounds, with a social hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. and dinner served at 6:00 p.m.

Chamber Membership Director Dawn Haney said she’s looking forward to the event. “I’m most excited to connect with the community and the people in the community,” Haney said. Tickets must be purchased by January 16, 2026, and can be bought at the Chamber office, either by phone or in person. Tickets for farmers and ranchers are $5 each, while tickets for everyone else are $30.

The Ogallala High School FFA Chapter will assist with the banquet, and funds from the farmer and rancher tickets will go directly to support the chapter. Food for the evening will be catered by Willow &amp; Co.

The evening will feature special guest speaker Amanda Radke, a nationally recognized rancher and advocate for agriculture. Haney said the Chamber is also grateful to its title sponsor, Lake Mac Resort and Casino. “We’re really glad to have them in the community,” she said.

The Ag Appreciation Banquet is a long-standing tradition designed to celebrate the people and businesses who keep Keith County’s agricultural community thriving. “This is a time to gather, connect, and express our gratitude for the individuals and businesses who play such a vital role in Keith County and beyond,” Haney said.

The Chamber looks forward to bringing the community together for an evening of recognition, appreciation, and connection.

Keith County Chamber to Host Annual Ag Appreciation Banquet

From Rail to Real-Time: Union Pacific Empowers Intermodal Customers with Enhanced GPS Tracking

The Hot Sheets: January 8, 2026

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 Cindy Gonzalez | Nebraska Examiner

LINCOLN — With Tyson Foods weeks away from shuttering its Lexington beef plant, the anticipated financial blow to the state is becoming clearer. Meanwhile, some workers have made strides to adjust.

The statewide economic loss, including both direct and ripple effects, is estimated at $3.28 billion a year, according to a recently released University of Nebraska-Lincoln analysis.

While public documents reported that a “mass layoff” of 3,212 Tyson workers will occur “on or around” Jan. 20, the UNL study projects more than 7,000 jobs will be lost statewide, along with an annual labor income loss of $530 million. That higher job loss count includes employees in other industries that support the Tyson beef plant operation and its workforce.

Tax revenues also will drop with the exit of Lexington’s largest employer. The projected annual decline in state personal income tax revenue is estimated at $23.2 million, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://cap.unl.edu/news/economic-impacts-tyson-beef-plant-closure-lexington-nebraska/" target="_blank">the Dec. 22 report</a>, and state sales tax proceeds are predicted to slide by $10 million a year.

Dawson County and neighboring communities will feel a concentrated punch, say authors and economics professors Elliott Dennis and Eric Thompson. Dennis specializes in livestock and risk management in UNL’s Department of Agricultural Economics. Thompson is an economist and director of the UNL Bureau of Business Research.&nbsp;

According to their analysis, local sales tax revenues in Dawson County will likely fall by $2.77 million a year due to the plant folding. Tyson has said that certain wind-down activities may continue for a short time beyond the Jan. 20 date.

Thompson called the Tyson plant closure significant statewide, saying he hasn’t seen many local employers “of this scale” close shop in the past few decades. The UNL analysis said the Lexington plant could process nearly 5,000 cattle daily, about 4.8% of total daily U.S. beef slaughter. It said the plant’s demise marks the first time one of the “Big Four” meatpacking companies has permanently closed a major facility during the current cattle supply crunch.

Still, Thompson said, such an occurrence in a market economy is not unnatural.&nbsp;

“The state needs to really focus on getting new investment,” he said.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has said that Tyson officials were exploring options for the Lexington facility that include&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/24/state-hunts-way-forward-after-nebraska-got-butts-kicked-by-tyson-plant-closure/">repurposing it</a>&nbsp;into a “value-added” ag operation. Tyson has not announced any plan.

U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb, has lamented publicly that Tyson about 20 years ago “pulled out” of his hometown of Norfolk, eliminating 1,300 jobs at the company’s stripped and now-abandoned meatpacking facility there, and the property has yet to be repurposed.

Since Tyson announced the Lexington plant closure&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/21/nebraskans-lament-tyson-decision-to-close-lexington-plant-with-3200-workers/">on Nov. 21</a>, Pillen has said that more than 1,600 people attended job fairs and other events designed to connect displaced workers with potential jobs and state workforce support services. More events are scheduled.

An hour drive from Lexington, the recently opened Sustainable Beef meatpacking plant in North Platte is hiring about 100 more workers and raising its daily cattle processing goal as a result of Tyson’s Lexington announcement, the North Platte Telegraph and Wall Street Journal have reported.

Lexington-area Tyson workers were inquiring about jobs immediately after Arkansas-based Tyson announced the closure. Sustainable Beef CEO David Briggs told the Telegraph that about 400 former Tyson workers already had joined his workforce, some before and some after the Nov. 21 announcement.&nbsp;

Today, the North Platte plant reportedly aims for 1,000 employees and to process 1,800 head of cattle per day.

Rancher-owned Sustainable Beef opened its plant in 2025 and was expected to create a more competitive supply chain against the “Big Four” producers. The four, Tyson, JBS, Cargill and National Beef, control about 83-85% of U.S. beef processing capacity, which, Dennis said, has long been a point of concern for cattle producers regarding market power and price.

For the Dec. 22 economic impact report, the UNL economists drew upon multiple data sources and used the IMpact analysis for PLANing (IMPLAN) model, a tool they described as an industry standard.&nbsp;

UNL report outlines Nebraska financial hit from Tyson plant exit

The Hot Sheets: January 7, 2026

Radon Action Month, observed in January each year, is aimed at raising awareness about radon gas and its health risks. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) works to educate the public about radon, how it is formed, where it can be found, and the health risks associated with any exposure. Many people are unaware of radon and its dangers, so this month provides an opportunity to share important information.

“Radon is present in every home and building. The only way to determine the radon levels in each home and building is through testing,” states Sarah Minnick, Program Manager at SWNPHD. “Nebraska has a very high rate of radon in homes. Around half the homes in Nebraska that are tested for radon get a result that is higher than the safety level.”

Homes are more at risk for radon exposure when:

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing homes for radon every two years. Radon test kits can be purchased at most hardware stores or online, and residents of the nine-county health district can stop by SWNPHD offices in McCook or Ogallala for a free Radon Test Kit. SWNPHD gave out just under 50 radon test kits to residents during 2025.

For homes that register elevated radon levels, a licensed radon professional can help with mitigation. Radon mitigation is the process used to decrease radon levels within a home. The Nebraska Radon Resistant New Construction Act was passed in 2019, meaning that all new construction must have radon-resistant features, which has helped to lower radon exposure in Nebraska.

For more information on radon, contact SWNPHD at 308-345-4223. Our website, swhealth.ne.gov, contains many resources and additional information that are helpful to prevent disease, promote healthy habits, and protect health. Follow SWNPHD on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department serves nine counties including Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties.

SWNPHD: January is Radon Action Month

The Hot Sheets: January 6, 2026

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

The Hot Sheets: January 5, 2026

The Hot Sheets: January 4, 2026

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

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

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post

Listen to the full interview with Angela Hipp on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb. - Angela Hipp of Community Connections has been named The Post and Prairie Friends &amp; Flowers Community Hero for Kids this month, an honor recognizing her dedication to mentoring and supporting young people in North Platte.

Hipp said receiving the recognition was meaningful and affirming. “It’s amazing. It feels wonderful because, you know, we all want to be recognized for the things that we’re passionate about,” she said. “And I’m really passionate about my job, and I love the people that I work with and the kids that I work with. And when somebody thinks that I’m doing well with it, that feels really good.”

Hipp has been with Community Connections for 10 years and said the award prompted reflection on her journey and her connection to the community. “Maybe sometimes at 10 years, you start to think about, like, the past and how you’ve come through your job and where you’re at and your whole life,” she said. “And how much I love being a part of this community… and so feeling a lot more grounded in my community.”

As the coordinator of the mentoring program, Hipp explained her role focuses on connecting kids with mentors and building support systems. “I am the coordinator for the mentoring program,” she said. “And so I find mentors for kids… I find someone to spend some time with a child to hang out. But I also plan activities and gatherings for all of us so that we feel like we’re all a part of something together.”

Hipp said one of the most meaningful indicators of impact comes from annual surveys completed by youth and mentors. “Seeing what kids say when they can say it completely anonymous… really stands out to me,” she said. “They talk about what it has meant to them to be a part of the mentoring program and what it’s meant to have a mentor.”

She added that mentoring helps kids feel more connected and supported. “Just for them to have someone to talk to and feel like somebody cares about them,” Hipp said.

In addition to coordinating the program, Hipp is also a mentor herself. “I do. I have one mentee,” she said, noting they have been matched for nearly three years. Reflecting on the experience, Hipp added, “Those kids, you’re not just changing their lives, but they’re changing your life in the process.”

Hipp said being described as a safe person for kids aligns with the purpose of her work. “I think that’s the whole point of what I’m doing,” she said. “That I know there are kids that often feel like there’s not someone for them that they feel safe with… so we really try to create that space for them.”

Her passion for mentoring began years earlier while raising her daughters as a single parent. “I remembered thinking how much that would mean for my kids to have that extra support person in their life,” she said. “And I realized that all kids need that. They need to feel like somebody is recognizing who they are.”

Hipp said building trust with kids takes time and consistency. “It takes time and just showing up repeatedly,” she said. “A lot of dedication.”

Community Connections’ mentoring program has served North Platte for more than 20 years. Hipp said its strength lies in its mentors and flexibility. “One mentoring pair’s journey is going to look totally different than somebody else’s, and that’s OK,” she said.

Looking ahead, Hipp said the program continues to focus on youth mental health and positive development. “One of the things we’ve been doing… is really focusing on gratitude with our young people,” she said. “Looking at the positive things in their lives and looking at the positives in our community.”

When asked what message she would share with the community, Hipp emphasized the importance of everyday support. “I think that everybody needs to just approach their interactions with young people with a mentoring mindset,” she said. “There’s a lot of opportunities to show up for kids and make sure they know that they feel safe in our community.”

🎙️The Post & Prairie Friends & Flowers Present: This Month's Community Hero For Kids - Angela Hipp

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 tough road trip to Wyoming that, in the end, had some positives. And what Coach feels are the small things the team can work on.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #7 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 a rollercoaster weekend in Wyoming where the Knights split the two-game road trip. While also touching on a very positive victory against Hastings College JV.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #10 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, and dived into the recent struggles the team has faced over the past three games, and discussed an impressive victory against Hastings College JV on Monday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #9 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed a record-breaking performance vs Midland University JV and what they need to take from that game to keep the momentum going.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss another tough loss this time against Frank Philips at home and what Coach Brandl is looking for from his team after the short Thanksgiving break.

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

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced January 26, 2026, as the opening of the nation’s 2026 filing season. This year, several new tax law provisions of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/one-big-beautiful-bill-provisions">One, Big, Beautiful Bill</a>&nbsp;become effective, which could impact federal taxes, credits and deductions, according to a media release from the agency.

Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to file their 2025 tax returns and pay any tax due. The IRS expects to receive about 164 million individual income tax returns this year, with most taxpayers filing electronically.

IRS.gov has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/let-us-help-you">online tools and resources</a>&nbsp;taxpayers can use before, during and after filing their federal tax return.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/one-big-beautiful-bill-provisions">One, Big, Beautiful Provisions</a>&nbsp;provides information that could help lower tax bills and potentially increase refund amounts.

“President Trump is committed to the taxpayers of this country and improving upon the successful tax filing season in 2025,” said Acting IRS Commissioner Scott Bessent. “Prior to the passage of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, which delivered working families tax cuts, Treasury and IRS were diligently preparing to update forms and processes for the benefit of hardworking Americans, and I am confident in our ability to deliver results and drive growth for businesses and consumers alike.”

“The Internal Revenue Service is ready to help taxpayers meet their tax filing and payment obligations during the 2026 filing season,” said IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano. “As always, the IRS workforce remains vigilant and dedicated to their mission to serve the American taxpaying public. At the same time, IRS information systems have been updated to incorporate the new tax laws and are ready to efficiently and effectively process taxpayer returns during the filing season.”

IRS Individual Online Account.&nbsp;Taxpayers can access their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-account-for-individuals">individual online account</a>&nbsp;information, including balance due, payments made or scheduled, tax records and more.

New Schedule 1-A.&nbsp;Taxpayers will use the new Schedule 1-A to claim recently enacted tax deductions, such as no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loan interest and/or the enhanced deduction for seniors.

Enroll in a Trump Account.&nbsp;Parents, guardians and other authorized individuals can establish a new type of individual retirement account for their children. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://trumpaccounts.gov/">trumpaccounts.gov</a>.

Open a bank account.&nbsp;The IRS strongly encourages taxpayers to establish a bank account to receive their tax refunds via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a>, because the IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks due to the executive order,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-to-phase-out-paper-tax-refund-checks-starting-with-individual-taxpayers">Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account</a>.

Forms 1099-K and 1099-DA.&nbsp;Taxpayers should visit IRS.gov and learn what to do if they receive either of these forms.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-k">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>, is used to report payments received from credit cards, payments apps and online marketplaces.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-da">Form 1099-DA, Digital Assets</a>, is used to report&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/digital-assets">digital asset</a>&nbsp;proceeds from broker transactions. Taxpayers must report all taxable income on their federal tax returns, even if they don’t receive either form.

Where’s My Refund?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund">Refund status</a>&nbsp;information is generally available around 24 hours after e-filing a current-year return, or four weeks after filing a paper return.

Be aware of tax scams and fraud.&nbsp;Taxpayers can learn how to prevent, report and recover from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/tax-scams">tax scams</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-central">tax-related identity theft</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.

Choose a tax preparer.&nbsp;Taxpayers should review IRS guidance for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a>, including tips on choosing a reputable preparer and how to avoid unethical preparers.

Taxpayer Assistance Centers.&nbsp;Taxpayers should make IRS.gov their first stop to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/let-us-help-you">get help</a>. If taxpayers cannot resolve their issue online, they can get help by making an appointment to visit a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office">Taxpayer Assistance Center</a>.

IRS Free File and Fillable Forms.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/irs-free-file-do-your-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;program will begin accepting individual tax returns starting Friday, Jan. 9 for qualified taxpayers. Taxpayers comfortable preparing their own taxes can use&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">IRS Free File Fillable Forms</a>&nbsp;starting Jan. 26, regardless of income.

MilTax.&nbsp;Military members and some veterans can use the Department of Defense program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">MilTax</a>, for free return preparation and e-filing software.

IRS-certified volunteers.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly</a>&nbsp;programs offer no-cost, basic tax preparation to qualified individuals.

IRS announces when they will begin accepting 2025 tax returns

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>

WASHINGTON — In a rare rebuke to President Donald Trump, Senate Republicans joined Democrats in advancing a war powers resolution to halt U.S. military action in Venezuela without congressional authorization.

Republican Sens. Todd Young of Indiana, Josh Hawley of Missouri, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska split with their party to act as a check on the administration’s use of military forces — as did Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, the measure’s co-sponsor with Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia.

The move marked a significant moment after Republicans on Capitol Hill have largely smoothed the path for Trump’s agenda throughout the past year.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., also unexpectedly supported the measure, which advanced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1192/vote_119_2_00005.htm" target="_blank">on a 52-47 vote</a>. Sen. Steve Daines, a Montana Republican, did not vote.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-joint-resolution/98/text?s=2&amp;r=1&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22S.J.res+98%22%7D" target="_blank">joint resolution</a>&nbsp;directs the “removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress.”&nbsp;

Thursday’s vote advanced the legislation over a procedural hurdle. The bill still requires a final Senate vote before it would head to the House.

The vote comes days after U.S. special forces launched a surprise overnight attack on Venezuela’s capital of Caracas on Saturday, capturing the country’s president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores. The couple appeared in federal court Monday on federal drug and conspiracy charges.

The U.S. launched a bombing campaign off the coast of Venezuela in September, striking small vessels in the Caribbean Sea that the administration alleges were operated by “narco-terrorists.” The death toll from the strikes reached over 100 in December.

Kaine forced Thursday’s procedural vote under the War Powers Resolution, a Vietnam War-era&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R47603" target="_blank">statute</a>&nbsp;that gives Congress a check on the president’s use of the military abroad.&nbsp;

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rubio-meet-danish-officials-amid-greenland-push-trump-administration" target="_blank">delivered a classified update</a>&nbsp;to members of Congress Wednesday on Capitol Hill on the ongoing U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. Democrats said they remained unsatisfied with the information shared during the meetings.

US Senate with GOP support advances war powers resolution rebuking Trump on Venezuela

See the new U.S. dietary guidelines: More protein, less grains

(GRAND ISLAND, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;—&nbsp; The next class of Nebraska State Patrol recruits have started their journey to earning the title of Nebraska State Trooper. The recruits of Camp 73 began training today at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island.

“Today is a great day for Nebraska, as these recruits have committed themselves to a career of serving the people and visitors of our great state,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “They’ve already demonstrated they have the character necessary to serve with integrity. Our Training Academy troopers will now equip them with knowledge, skills, and abilities they’ll need to make a difference in communities across Nebraska.”

The 12 recruits of Camp 73 come to NSP from several communities across Nebraska and multiple other states.&nbsp; 

Seth Dvorak – Scottsbluff&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Khadario Earl – Wellington, FL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nick Eckhout – Lincoln&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

David Farmer – Battle Creek&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Rex Fell – Benkelman &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gideon Hill – Macon, IL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska State Patrol recruits undergo hundreds of hours of classroom instruction and scenario-based training to prepare them to serve as troopers. Camp 73 is scheduled to graduate on June 18, 2026.

“These recruits are embarking on a rigorous training course that will ensure they are prepared to provide the highest quality service to Nebraskans,” said Captain Andy Ecklund, NSP Director of Training. “Over the next six months, they’ll receive expert training and earn the title of Trooper.”

Applications to be a part of NSP’s next recruit class, Camp 74, will open on March 2, 2026. Interested candidates can connect with NSP recruiters, get more information about the career, and learn about the benefits at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://nebraskatroopers.com/">NebraskaTroopers.com</a>

NSP Recruits Start Journey to Become Nebraska Troopers

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

An ICE officer shot a woman driving an SUV through her car window in south Minneapolis on Wednesday morning. The person is dead, according to a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security.&nbsp;

Video of the incident&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/K9CJY5p0xz4?si=zC_gkj-tiUR9CS-A" target="_blank">shared with the&nbsp;Reformer</a>&nbsp;shows masked ICE officers approach a Honda Pilot stopped in the middle of Portland Avenue near 34th Street. One officer tells the driver to “get out of the f*cking car” and tries to open the door. The driver then slowly backs up and then pulls forward. An officer at the front of the vehicle fires three shots and the SUV travels a short distance before crashing into a parked car.&nbsp;

The witness who took the video, Caitlin Callenson, said she was on a walk when she saw an ICE vehicle stuck in the snow. As more ICE vehicles arrived, bystanders blew whistles in protest, and the driver of the SUV tried to block the ICE vehicles.

Callenson said she did not see ICE agents attempting to detain anyone leading up to or after the shooting.&nbsp;

After the shots were fired, the driver was “then was completely slumped over in the vehicle,” said Emily Heller, another witness. Federal agents wouldn’t allow a man who said he is a physician to examine the driver, Heller said. Emergency medical technicians arrived 15 minutes later, she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tricia McLaughlin, assistant Secretary Dept. of Homeland Security,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TriciaOhio/status/2008957179793998266?s=20" target="_blank">writing on X</a>, gave a different version of what happened: “One of these violent rioters weaponized her vehicle, attempting to run over our law enforcement officers in an attempt to kill them — an act of domestic terrorism. An ICE officer, fearing for his life, the lives of his fellow law enforcement and the safety of the public, fired defensive shots.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dozens of federal agents from ICE and the FBI, as well as Minneapolis police officers and Hennepin County sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene&nbsp;

As some federal officers attempted to leave, protestors blocked their vehicle. The officers fired a noxious gas at close range, causing distress and vomiting for many demonstrators and journalists.&nbsp;

Protesters hurled insults at Minneapolis Police officers, who are not supposed to assist with immigration enforcement, but were on the scene Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

City Council members including Robin Wonsley and Jamal Osman addressed the crowd, saying the area was an active crime scene, and that MPD was present to investigate.&nbsp;

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty issued a statement soon after the shooting saying she is “pushing hard for a local investigation which is the only way to ensure full transparency and review by our office.”&nbsp;

U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, a St. Paul Democrat, called on Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who filmed herself observing ICE actions in Minneapolis on Tuesday, to immediately stop the ICE operation “to restore order and prevent further injuries.”

ICE officer fatally shoots driver through SUV window in Minneapolis

🎥 US seized 2 more oil tankers linked to Venezuela

By Juan Salinas II | <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/01/05/nebraska-report-examines-state-impacts-if-u-s-enters-armed-conflict/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

Pillen, Kelly tout plan’s ability to prepare state, ag for Chinese threat, others

LINCOLN —&nbsp; Nebraska officials explored the statewide implications if the U.S. gets involved in a major war or “armed conflict” as part of a new state report issued this month on external threats.&nbsp;

Gov. Jim Pillen briefed the press Monday on the new legislatively required annual threat assessment. He was joined by Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly, and Adj. Gen. Craig Strong at the Nebraska National Guard Air Base.&nbsp;

The report comes after four meetings last year of the 11-member, legislatively created Committee on Pacific Conflict, required by a 2024 law from State Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln. The group met to discuss the state’s vulnerabilities in agriculture, infrastructure, telecommunications and cybersecurity with experts. It includes four lawmakers, the lieutenant governor and the adjutant general.&nbsp;

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