LAKE MAC REPORT for August 15, 2025 — brought to you by Spahn Marine in Big Springs, Nebraska — where the boats are shiny, the service is friendly, and the fish stories are always free!

If you’re a trout chaser, Lake Ogallala is still the place to be. The river and canal below the lake are giving up plenty of fish, and some bigger trout are starting to show up right in the lake itself.

Prefer whiskers over fins? Catfish at Lake Mac are on the prowl this month, biting best from dusk to dawn pretty much anywhere you drop a line. Just remember — the later it gets, the taller your stories get.

During the day, smallmouth bass are still hitting hard along the rocky points on the south side and the face of the dam. Walleye hunters are finding some action too — 25 to 30 feet down with crankbaits is the magic recipe.

Available docks: Divers Bay, Martin Bay low water, both docks at Lake Ogallala, and the fishing dock in the northwest corner.

Lake McConaughy’s water temperature is about 77 degrees, elevation 3,225.3 feet. Inflows from the North Platte River are running around 650 cubic feet per second, with outflows at about 2,500. For the full water-level breakdown, check the CNPPID site once they update their numbers.

It’s still camping season, so grab your spot at outdoornebraska.gov or call 844-637-2757. Campfires are allowed, but keep ’em in a pit under 3 feet and don’t turn your hot dogs into torches.

Big thanks to Patrick Schnell from Nebraska Game and Parks for the fishing intel — and remember, this Outdoor Report is powered by Spahn Marine in Big Springs… because the only thing better than catching a fish is showing up in style to do it.

Lake Mac Report (August 15, 2025)

The Hot Sheets: August 16, 2025

ALLIANCE, Neb. — Three people were injured in a motor vehicle crash in Alliance early Thursday evening, police said.

On Thursday, August 14th, at approximately 4:08 p.m., the Alliance Police Department received a 911 report of a motor vehicle accident with possible injuries at the intersection of 3rd Street and Laramie Avenue.

Responding officers arrived to find three vehicles involved. Two severely injured adults were located inside a red Jeep. The driver was slumped over, not breathing and had only a faint pulse. Officers quickly removed him from the vehicle, placed him on the roadway, and initiated life-saving measures, including CPR and the use of an AED. The Alliance Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter and assumed medical care.

The Jeep’s passenger sustained serious leg injuries and possible additional trauma. Officers applied a tourniquet to control severe bleeding before AFD personnel took over treatment.

A second vehicle, a white Chevrolet Silverado, had sustained heavy front-end damage. The driver suffered leg injuries from the head-on collision with the Jeep.

A third vehicle, a white GMC Yukon, was struck when the force of the initial impact pushed the Silverado backward into it. All occupants of the Yukon declined medical treatment.

Preliminary investigation and witness statements indicate that the Jeep was traveling westbound on 3rd Street from Laramie Avenue when the driver experienced a medical emergency, causing the vehicle to cross the center line into the path of the eastbound Chevrolet Silverado. The impact pushed the Silverado into the GMC Yukon.

The driver of the Jeep was transported to the hospital in critical condition. The Jeep’s passenger and the Silverado’s driver were transported in non-critical condition.

The Nebraska State Patrol conducted a full traffic reconstruction at the scene. The Alliance Police Department is handling the primary investigation. We would like to thank the Alliance Fire Department, Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and the City of Alliance Streets Department for their quick and professional response.

UPDATE on Three Injured in Alliance Crash on 3rd Street

The Hot Sheets: August 15, 2025

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Bidding is underway for the 2025 North Platte Community College Foundation Auction House — a custom-built home constructed by students in the college’s Building Construction, Electrical and HVAC-R Technology programs.&nbsp;

The annual project gives students hands-on training from the foundation up, with proceeds from the silent auction funding scholarships for future building trades students.&nbsp;

The public can tour the home during open houses from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Aug. 22 and Aug. 25 on the college’s north campus, 1101 Halligan Drive. Individual tours are available by calling the North Campus Welcome Center at 308-535-3601.&nbsp;

This year’s house spans 1,886 square feet with three bedrooms, two and a half baths, Andersen 100 Series windows, LED lighting, high-performance insulation and LP SmartSide siding with a 30-year warranty. Interior features include solid hardwood floors, Shaker-style hickory cabinets, quartz countertops and a master shower with a full ceramic tile enclosure.&nbsp;

The home is wired for cable and telephones, but the buyer must install an electrical meter, main service disconnect, water heater, furnace and ventilation systems.&nbsp;

The minimum bid is $200,000, and bidders must be pre-qualified. Offers can be submitted <a href="https://www.mpcc.edu/house-auction.php?fbclid=IwY2xjawML9jdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFxdFBSMllJOGZSVllIRkFHAR6FXgvLYae9bmbPhetYDBJmN_16WRyBOxJWX-0H8XAqLG-irPIyZzOnaeGyKQ_aem_Fdb_OpO4PuguOMzRbBkaAg">HERE</a> until 10:30 a.m. Aug. 26. After that, bids will be accepted in person until 12:30 p.m. in Room 206 of the W.W. Wood Building. The highest bid will be posted online during the auction.&nbsp;

Bidding Opens for NPCC Student-Built Home, Open Houses Set for Aug. 22, 25

North Platte — Thursday’s schedule at the Chase County Fair and Expo in Imperial features a mix of tradition and new attractions, including a rescheduled 4-H livestock sale and a first-time Hispanic concert.

Fair board member Jake Burke said the 4-H sale, typically held on Friday, will take place Thursday at 5:30 p.m. in the show barn. “If anyone wants to come out and support the kids for all their hard work, it’s in the show barn today,” Burke said. “Show them that their effort didn’t go unnoticed.”

Buyers at the sale can choose to process the animals, with processing spots available at area facilities.

Later in the evening, gates open at 7 p.m. for the Hispanic concert in the grandstand arena, featuring La Fiera at 8 p.m. Tickets are available online or at the fair ticket booth.

The fair’s carnival, billed as the largest in the area, continues Thursday. Day passes can be purchased at the carnival’s ticket booth, while “Mega Pass” wristbands — good for unlimited rides for the entire carnival run — are available through the fair’s website or ticket booth.

The Chase County Fair runs through the weekend, with concerts, livestock events, and entertainment scheduled each day.

4-H Sale, Hispanic concert highlight Thursday at Chase County Fair

The Hot Sheets: August 14, 2025

The Sutherland Chamber of Commerce and the Nebraska Public Power District will be hosting an open house at the Village office to discuss the Districts plan for the modular nuclear power plants after Sutherland was recognized as one of 16 communities best suited for the next generation nuclear reactor.

Sutherland to host Open House on small nuclear power plants

IMPERIAL, Neb. (Aug. 13, 2025) — The Chase County Fair in Imperial is hitting its stride this week with a packed schedule of family events, concerts, and traditional fair favorites running through Saturday night.

Jacob Burke, a member of the Chase County Fair Board, said Wednesday marked the week’s first “big day,” featuring family-oriented attractions like turtle races, a climbing wall sponsored by the Imperial Community Foundation, a homemade pie and ice cream social, and the opening of the carnival.

Thursday’s schedule includes the 4-H and FFA livestock sale — moved up from Friday for the first time — beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by a new Hispanic concert at 8 p.m. Gates open at 7 p.m., and tickets are available online or at the fairgrounds.

The grandstand concerts kick off Friday with Ty Myers, Redferrin, and Anna Lucia, along with DJ Grant Fisher performing before and after the shows. Saturday’s entertainment will feature Hudson Westbrook, currently holding a Top 20 national hit, with Ned LeDoux opening.

Carnival rides run daily, with unlimited ride passes available. Other highlights include a parade Saturday morning, a car and motorcycle show, cornhole tournament, bingo, and free family shows throughout the fairgrounds.

Burke credited the fair’s 160 sponsors and a volunteer board for making the event possible each year. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without our sponsors and volunteers,” he said.

Full schedules and ticket information are available at <a href="https://www.chasecountyfair.com/">ChaseCountyFair.com</a>

Chase County Fair in Imperial will close out the week with big events planned

The Hot Sheets: August 13, 2025

OGALLALA, Neb. (Aug. 12, 2025) — The Ogallala City Council will hold a full slate of meetings this afternoon, starting with budget discussions and ending with a regular August session packed with public hearings, license renewals and policy updates.

Council members will open the day at 4:30 p.m. MDT with a special meeting on the proposed 2025-2026 city budget. The session will include a series of 15-minute budget workshops with presentations from the Sandhills Crisis Intervention Program, Western Resources Group, Keith County Housing Development Corp., Keith County Historical Society and Keep Keith County Beautiful. A general budget discussion is scheduled for 5:45 p.m.

At 7 p.m., the council will convene its regular meeting at City Hall. The agenda includes a public hearing on public transportation hours of operation and a request from resident Tressie Smith for reimbursement of costs related to tree removal and replacement at a rental property.

Council members are also set to vote on multiple resolutions, including creating a job description for a code enforcement position, renewing the city’s League Association of Risk Management coverage, amending the city’s fee schedule and adjusting public transportation hours.

Other business includes approving a special designated liquor license for the Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce’s Indian Summer Rendezvous in September, adopting an updated service agreement with the chamber, and considering ordinances amending short-term rental regulations and vacant property registration rules.

The council will also review final plats for two local developments, award a street improvement contract for West 2nd Street from West A to Spruce streets and East 2nd Street from East C to East D streets, and sign the city’s annual street program compliance certification.

Ogallala Council to Tackle Budget, Transportation Hours and Street Projects Today

Celebrate creativity at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PrairieArtsCenter?__cft__[0]=AZV8STkjtnrCZQE9hhoPpMsZZAfbah04AophBeiZ4ikH8aGkJgMtLNeDNx2YrVEv684uwL5K_xxQoDemarguHZ9RgVPXqRmQnnHlnj2MSTvXrvFj26wWVSJwTtC8qWf0GRPPDLuzf3gVxq5VfTrv5Y5DrTEb0T1KykQ7YqJ9rQD3ng&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Prairie Arts Center</a> on August 9th from 11 AM – 3 PM with FREE admission!

 Free Art Classes &amp; Open Studio Ceramics (11 AM – 2 PM)From origami to watercolor minis, Q-tip painting to wooden pumpkins — try something new in 30-minute quick classes! (First come, first serve.)

 Artist Market &amp; Live Demos (11 AM – 2 PM)Shop from talented local artists, enjoy woodcarving, clay wheel throwing, painting &amp; drawing demos.

 Bob Ross Costume Contest (11 AM – 2 PM)Dress like everyone’s favorite happy little painter for a chance to win a prize!

 Amateur Hour Painting Competition (2 PM – 3 PM)Watch locals show off their painting skills — for free!

 Plus: face painting, raffles, downtown sculpture walk tours, art &amp; food vendors, and so much more.

(Audio) Tara and Traeli from the Prairie Arts Center discusses the upcoming Art Affair

&nbsp;Paxton Gordon sat down with Paul from Pal’s Brewing Company to preview an action-packed weekend of events. This Friday, Pal’s hosts its 7th Annual Craft Beer Festival, featuring a wide selection of regional breweries, live music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for beer lovers. Then on Saturday, it's the return of the 2nd Annual Boots 'N Beef Music Festival, celebrating Nebraska’s best beef with great food, country music, and cold brews. Paul shared all the details, inviting everyone out for a weekend full of flavor and fun at Pal’s.

Pal’s Brewing gears up for Craft Beer Festival and Boots & Beef Weekend

By Derek Beck North Platte Post| August 1, 2025 | North Platte, Neb.

A local chapter of the Widows Sons motorcycle organization presented a $6,000 donation to Homestead Refuge on Friday morning, offering a significant boost to the nonprofit’s mission of supporting victims of sex trafficking in rural Nebraska.

The presentation took place during a live radio interview at Eagle Media in North Platte, where representatives from both groups spoke about their shared commitment to helping vulnerable individuals rebuild their lives.

Road Runner, Guardian of Membership for District 13 and a representative of the Widows Sons’ Western Travelers Chapter, said the funds were raised during the group’s annual state rally held in June. The Widows Sons, a fraternal motorcycle group made up of Master Masons, selected Homestead Refuge as the charitable beneficiary for this year’s event.

“We’re a charitable riding organization that focuses on helping widows, orphans, and anyone in need, especially those affected by abuse or hardship,” Road Runner said. “We’re proud of what we were able to raise with the help of our brothers from across the country.”

The Western Travelers Chapter includes nine fully patched members and two journeymen currently working toward full membership. The funds were raised through raffles, auctions, and other rally activities.

Accepting the donation on behalf of Homestead Refuge was Betty Remus, a volunteer who has been instrumental in the organization’s development.

Located in rural Lincoln County, Homestead Refuge offers a safe haven for survivors of sex trafficking, providing peace, privacy, and healing in a country setting. The home features animals and quiet outdoor spaces to aid in recovery.

“We’re a place where survivors can escape the chaos and begin the long process of healing,” Remus said. “This donation means the world to us, especially as we work to sustain and grow our program with limited staff and funding.”

Homestead Refuge currently employs one paid staff member, thanks to a private donor, with the remainder of operations handled by volunteers. The organization began about four years ago, when Remus and others repurposed an old family home into a shelter after feeling called to address the growing trafficking issue in the area.

For more information or to support Heartland Refuge, visit <a href="https://www.homesteadrefuge.org/">HomesteadRefuge.org</a>

Widows Sons Donate $6,000 to Homestead Refuge for Victims of Trafficking

North Platte 80s Head Coach Todd Everleth joined host Paxton Gordon on the show to preview the team’s upcoming playoff showdown against the Blackwell Flycatchers. Everleth broke down the team’s approach heading into the high-stakes matchup. He also reflected on the excitement surrounding Trevor Pochop Night, honoring the fan-favorite’s impact on and off the field.

North Platte 80s Manager Todd Everleth joins to talk about the Pecos Playoffs and Trevor Pochop Night

Listen To Interview with Gene Russel here

OGALLALA, Neb. (July 30, 2025) — As the calendar turns to August, the energy is building at Ogallala Public Schools ahead of the first day of school on Wednesday, August 14. Superintendent Gene Russel says the district is eager to welcome students back with new programs, facility upgrades, and a strong emphasis on community support and student readiness.

Among the key initiatives this year is the “Kick Start to Kindergarten” program. Designed to help incoming kindergarteners ease into their new environment, the program gives students a chance to meet their teachers and experience a mock school day before the official first day of class.

“This helps take away the tears and anxiety for both kids and parents,” Russell said. “It’s a smooth transition that sets the tone for the year.”

Russel says students and families will notice major updates across the district, especially at Prairie View School, where modernization efforts include new record boards, upgraded trophy cases, a freshly painted gym, and a new video scoreboard. At the high school, renovations include remodeled restrooms and custom murals by local artist Brianna Benton, helping create a more engaging and modern atmosphere.

“We’ve worked hard to save over the last four or five years so we could reinvest in the student experience,” said Russel. “We believe our kids deserve to walk into a building that feels exciting and inspiring.”

One of the most significant proposals on the horizon is a possible expansion of the district’s preschool offerings. Ogallala Public Schools is exploring the addition of new preschool classrooms, potentially at the National Guard Armory, to help address a critical early education gap.

According to district data, about 60% of incoming kindergarten students have little to no formal preschool experience.

“We’re seeing too many kids show up not ready—socially, emotionally, or academically,” Russel said. “This expansion could help close that gap and offer free, accessible education to the students who need it most.”

The proposal is still under discussion and will be a topic at upcoming school board meetings in August and September, as the board finalizes its budget and levy.

Russel encourages community members to share their input early: “This is the time to get involved. We want to hear your thoughts before decisions are made.”

New Staff, Fall Sports and Community Spirit

Teachers officially report back to school on Friday, August 8, with returning staff beginning in-service training on Monday, August 11. Russell says the district is welcoming several new staff members this fall and is focused on getting everyone ready for a strong start.

And it wouldn’t be back-to-school season without fall sports. Volleyball, football, cross country, and girls golf all kick off the first week, and the district is rolling out some fun new additions to its concession stands—including soft-serve ice cream and a refreshed menu aimed at making game night the place to be in town.

“It’s going to be fun,” Russel said. “We’re working hard to enhance the experience for students, families, and fans.”

With energy high and plenty of excitement in the air, Ogallala Public Schools is set for a fresh start filled with community, commitment, and continued growth.

For more information or to get involved with district initiatives, residents are encouraged to contact the superintendent’s office.

Ogallala Public Schools Ready to Kick Off New Year with Exciting Updates and Community Focus (PODCAST)

Evan and Bruce get together to talk about all the latest action in the Pecos League, playoff implications and more. And keeping with the catchphrase, "Anything can happen in the Pecos League" we talk about impromptu laundry service and chess boards, too. All of that, and North Platte RF/PH/jack of all trades Ryan Lutinski joins Evan for this week's interview. Don't miss it!&nbsp;

Wild Card Fever, Chess Championships, Super Sub Ryan Lutinski and more. Another fun week in the Pecos League!

OGALLALA, Neb. — The Ogallala City Council took care of a mix of routine and forward-looking business during a relatively light meeting Tuesday night, according to City Manager Kevin Wilkins.

Wilkins, speaking Wednesday morning on the Sandhills Spotlight on Z 93.5 Country, said the council efficiently moved through a lengthy consent agenda, which included over two dozen contractor license renewals. Most of those were for gas fitters, master and journeyman plumbers, right-of-way contractors, and mobile home license renewals.

“We’re in that season where there are a lot of contractor renewals,” Wilkins said.

The council also approved a new engineering agreement for a flood control project along Highway 30. While a federal grant that initially supported the project—FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program—was canceled, Wilkins said the city is continuing engineering work independently.

“We’re keeping momentum going while working with the Nebraska Department of Transportation,” he said, adding that the estimated project cost is around $9 million.

In preparation for next week’s Keith County Fair, the council approved a request to provide picnic tables for the fairgrounds. The parks department will collect tables from city parks and deliver them to a central drop-off point at the fairgrounds.

“Fairgoers will get to enjoy them out there, but just a heads-up—your local park may be without tables next week,” Wilkins noted.

On the public health front, Wilkins encouraged residents to cooperate with city workers conducting lead pipe surveys. Though Ogallala isn’t believed to have many, if any, lead service lines, the city is complying with a required survey by taking random samples.

“We want to make this as smooth as possible for our water department,” he said.

The council also took further steps in its ongoing nuisance property initiative, declaring one property a nuisance and advancing three others to formal abatement. Wilkins emphasized the city’s commitment to cleanup, citing $60,000 spent on nuisance enforcement last year, including the removal of fire-damaged structures.

“If a property owner doesn’t follow through, we will—and then bill the cost. And if it’s not paid, we’ll put it on the property taxes,” he said.

Council members also addressed invasive species, specifically the “tree of heaven,” which has been reported growing along some city walkways. Wilkins warned that the tree, often mistaken for sumac, is fast-spreading and harmful to local vegetation.

“If you think you have one, it’s important to remove it—and you can reach out to the tree board or a local arborist for help,” he said.

Additional reports included a $50,950 grant award for a city project, ongoing planning for a new ambulance barn at the Community Hospital, and a public health alert about tick-borne illness and the risk of West Nile virus during the summer months.

“We’re just trying to keep the community moving forward—and looking good while doing it,” Wilkins said.

Ogallala Council Moves Forward on Flood Control, Nuisance Abatement and Fair Preparations (PODCAST)

GRANT, Neb. — With near-perfect weather and a jam-packed schedule, the Perkins County Fair in Grant is in full swing — and gearing up for a high-energy weekend of food, fun, and live music.

Kasey Kroeker of the Perkins County Fair Board joined Z93.5 Country’s Derek Beck Thursday morning to preview the final days of the fair, which officially kicked off with a community Chamber breakfast and continues with a flurry of 4-H events, family activities, and live entertainment.

“Whatever meets your fancy, we’ve got it,” Kroeker said, highlighting a diverse lineup of food vendors offering everything from barbecue to Mexican cuisine, pizza, and ice cream. “We’ve got some new ones this year, and the weather’s been amazing.”

Thursday night marks the start of the fair’s major entertainment slate, featuring a Ranch Rodeo with 11–12 teams, FFA Farm Olympics, and mutton busting. The beer garden will be open and ready for guests.

“We’ve got a great group on the board that puts the Ranch Rodeo together,” Kroeker said. “FFA’s going to put on a good show too — I’ve heard it’s going to be pretty funny.”

Friday brings a full day of family fun with a Kids Carnival and a performance by local talent Shane Parde at 5 p.m. in the bingo area — a popular return act, playing both Friday and Saturday evenings.

“He just plays with his guitar and has a great voice. He’s super entertaining,” Kroeker said.

That sets the stage for Friday night’s big rock concert with Eve 6, with gates opening at 6 p.m. A live DJ will entertain ahead of the 8 p.m. show, with more music following the concert.

“This is new for us,” Kroeker said. “We had the rodeo last year, but we wanted to mix it up. Eve 6 was a great option. If you’re a 90s or 2000s fan, you’ll definitely recognize the hits.”

Country Music Doubleheader Saturday

Saturday brings even more with the traditional parade in the morning, followed by the annual 4-H barbecue — an important fundraiser for local youth programs.

“We really want people to come out and support it. All that money goes back to the 4-H Council and the kids,” Kroeker said.

The afternoon includes a kids’ tractor pull before things gear up again for the final night’s headline show — a country music doubleheader with Josh Ross and Joe Nichols.

“Josh Ross is an up-and-comer we were lucky to book. And pairing him with Joe Nichols — who has had hit after hit — makes for a huge finale,” Kroeker said.

Tickets are available in advance at <a href="http://perkinscountyfairgrounds.com">perkinscountyfairgrounds.com</a> and at the gate. Schedules, updates, and photos are posted regularly on the fair’s Facebook page.

Kroeker emphasized the importance of community support and local sponsors in making the event possible.

“Everything we do down here — it doesn’t happen without our sponsors,” he said. “If you’re at the fair, go thank them. Better yet, shop with them. That’s how all of this works.”

Big Crowds, Big Sounds Expected at Perkins County Fair This Weekend in Grant (PODCAST)

By Derek Beck | Sandhills POST News | July 9, 2025

OGALLALA, Neb. — The local philanthropy group 100+ Women Who Care Keith County is preparing for its next quarterly giving event, set for Monday, July 14, at the Hayloft Meeting Room upstairs at Front Street Café in Ogallala.

The event, which starts with dinner at 5 p.m. sharp and the meeting to follow at 6 p.m., brings together women across Keith County who pool individual donations to make a collective impact for local nonprofits.

Ahead of the event, members planning to dine must submit their meal selections by Thursday, July 10. Options include a grilled chicken club sandwich with a side, chicken bacon ranch salad, or shrimp Alfredo with garlic bread and salad — each priced at $16.

In an interview on Sandhills Spotlight, group organizer Kerri Anderson emphasized the power of collective giving. “Individually, $100 might not go far, but when we put it together, we’re making a real difference,” she said.

At the last quarterly meeting, the group awarded $10,200 to the Ogallala Tree Board to support local green initiatives. Other recent recipients have included Royal Family KIDS Camp, local senior centers, and youth mentoring programs.

Since its formation in 2019 and first meeting in January 2020, the organization has raised more than $212,000, despite missing two meetings due to COVID disruptions.

The group’s model is simple: each member commits to donating $100 per quarter. At each meeting, three nonprofit organizations — nominated by members — present their cause. Members vote, and the winning nonprofit receives the pooled funds. This quarter's presenters are:

Even nonprofits that don’t win often benefit. Anderson noted that members sometimes choose to contribute additional personal donations to the other presenters. “Some women are moved by a certain cause and will give another $100 out of pocket,” she said.

Anderson encouraged current members to bring a guest to Monday’s meeting, saying, “It’s a great way to grow our group. Once people see the impact, they want to be part of it.”

Women interested in joining or learning more are welcome to attend the meeting portion only, which runs for about an hour. Each presentation lasts 10 minutes, followed by a brief Q&amp;A and voting.

For meal reservations or more information, members can contact the group directly or reach out via its social media pages.

100+ Women Who Care Keith County Prepares for July Giving Event

LISTEN TO RECAP OF MEETING WITH CITY MANAGER KEVIN WILKINS

OGALLALA, Neb. — Ogallala City Manager Kevin Wilkins recapped a busy Fourth of July weekend and discussed city updates during Tuesday’s “Sandhills Spotlight” segment on <a href="http://www.z935country.com">Z 93.5 Country</a>, following a brief but productive Ogallala City Council meeting Tuesday evening.

Wilkins highlighted the success of Ogallala’s first-ever Independence Day drone show, which nearly didn’t happen due to unexpected technical difficulties. The drone operators initially struggled to secure a signal for launching the drones, causing a delay of about 40 minutes. The show ultimately went forward thanks to quick action by city staff, Councilman Austin DuPeire, and Brandon Scott from the city’s planning and zoning office — along with Scott’s family — who helped assemble and align the drones.

“We were close to canceling,” Wilkins said. “Councilman DuPeire came through with exactly the equipment we needed. The Scott family helped physically set up the drones — they blink certain colors and have to be aligned due north before they’ll launch.”

The show finally started just after 10:30 p.m. and was synchronized with patriotic music broadcast on Flatrock 100.7 FM. Wilkins called the debut a success but said the city is already reviewing lessons learned.

“I think next year, we’d look at combining a few traditional aerial fireworks with the drones to give the crowd the best of both worlds,” Wilkins said.

Ogallala’s Goodall YMCA outside pool — operating under the “Ogallala Oasis” name — also received praise at the city council meeting. Wilkins said membership is growing, and the Y recently added two new pieces of exercise equipment to the Goodall Recreation Center. The YMCA has also taken over concessions at both the city pool and Western Diamonds Sports Complex.

“The pool is seeing great numbers, and the YMCA is doing a fantastic job managing it,” Wilkins said. “Even with some hiccups, like an old slide pump, things are running smoothly.”

The only other action item during Monday’s council meeting was approval of bid specifications and a bid opening date for street reconstruction on two sections of West Second Street. The city hopes to complete the project before the end of the current fiscal year, with a tentative target of November for completion.

“We want to get it done quickly,” Wilkins noted. “There’s not a lot of underground infrastructure, so it’s primarily surface work — but we are addressing drainage concerns, especially in front of City Hall.”

Wilkins also previewed what’s ahead, including budget planning sessions later this month. He noted complications stemming from new state-level legislation that is making municipal budgeting more complex across Nebraska.

“We’re not alone in facing uncertainty,” Wilkins said. “We’re juggling state requirements, forecasting future growth from the Casino/Resort development, and trying to remain fiscally responsible.”

Speaking of the resort, Wilkins confirmed that hiring is underway for the temporary casino facility, and race day at the new track is now set for August 19 — a few weeks earlier than originally expected.

“The resort’s progress is encouraging, and the city is excited about what it will bring,” Wilkins said. “We’re already seeing interest from people who want to visit, which is exactly what we hoped for.”

The Ogallala City Council’s next regular meeting is scheduled later this month, when budget discussions are expected to intensify.

Ogallala City Council Reviews Fourth Festivities, YMCA Update, and Street Project Plans

🎥Trump and Putin reach an 'understanding,' but offer no details 

United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that five people were charged by complaint for a range of federal violations that center around their alleged conspiracy to engage in labor trafficking, sex trafficking, and harboring of aliens at several hotel locations across the Omaha metro area and into central Nebraska, according to a media release.

The defendants own, operate and manage several hotels in the Omaha metro area located at the following locations where federal search warrants were executed in the early morning hours of August 12, 2025:

The five charged and arrested on August 12, 2025, are:

The redacted complaint affidavit contains a more complete summary of the allegations. Criminal Complaints are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners worked together today to safely execute search warrants at 14 business premises and two residential locations associated with the defendants.&nbsp; Four of those premises were either hotels or motels, and the remaining businesses were “Brow and Lash” salons located in the Westroads Mall and at other Omaha metro area locations.

During the operation, law enforcement officers rescued 10 minors from an alleged labor trafficking conspiracy that involved putting children under the age of twelve years old to work at the hotels for long hours with little to no pay.&nbsp; Seventeen adult victims were also rescued from the same conspiracy.&nbsp; The complaint affidavit details the allegedly exploitative conditions these victims were subjected to while being required to pay the defendants for their lodging at the hotels.&nbsp; The lodging accommodations were unclean, unsafe, and unhealthy.&nbsp;Online reviews for the hotel locations detail the firsthand accounts of travelers who occupied the same locations briefly.&nbsp; On one occasion, a source working with the federal government entered a hotel room where immigrant victims were sleeping on the floor of the room with cockroaches crawling on the victims as they slept.

Separately, the United States Attorney’s Office has alleged that one or more of the defendants were engaged in a sex trafficking conspiracy that allegedly victimized both minors and adults.&nbsp; Sex trafficking was not only allowed at the hotels according to complaint affidavit allegations but also encouraged, protected from law enforcement detection, and sex trafficking victims at the hotels were subjected not only to the traditional perpetrators of a sex trafficking scheme but also to hotel management and employees victimizing them as well.

Beyond these allegations, multiple defendants are alleged to have maintained these hotels as premises to conduct drug trafficking freely.&nbsp; &nbsp;Drug traffickers allegedly received protection from law enforcement in the same manner in which human traffickers were also shielded by the hotel owners and managers.&nbsp; Overdoses were a common problem, and at least one hotel had to keep Narcan at the front desk as a result.&nbsp; One source cited described a stairwell of one of the hotels as being littered with drug needles.&nbsp; Drug use was open and notorious in the parking lots according to eyewitnesses and to some online guest reviews.

At least one of the defendants is charged with a conspiracy to defraud the United States government by instigating a criminal scheme designed to obtain U visas under fraudulent circumstances. The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.&nbsp; Allegations in the complaint affidavits reveal that one hotel owner hired a worker at a hotel to stage a fictitious robbery of one of the Brow and Lash salons in 2022.&nbsp;The goal was to secure a U visa for one of the other defendants by making her a “victim” of the robbery.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The complaint further alleges one of the defendants engaged in conversations involving questions about what it would cost to bring someone from India to America and negotiating various prices.&nbsp; A number of hotel employees crossed the Arizona border several years ago and reported to Customs and Border Patrol they would be residing at one or more of the defendant’s hotels, thereby indicating those arrangements were made prior to entering the country illegally.&nbsp;Furthermore, the complaint alleges that aliens were being transported by co-conspirators between the State of Nebraska and the State of Washington for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining Washington state driver’s licenses for around $1,000 per identification document.

The various alleged conspiracies generated significant illegal proceeds, and as part of today’s operation, significant cash assets were seized to include more than $565,000 in U.S. currency that are alleged to be involved in money laundering. The United States filed a notice of pending lawsuit on the hotel properties to prevent their sale or transfer while this investigation is ongoing.&nbsp; The United States Marshals Service is actively recovering assets in this investigation alleged to have been illegally acquired and hoarded by the defendants. Also, seized during this operation was an undetermined amount illicit drugs that will be quantified as this investigation progresses.

Several vigilant citizens made complaints to Human Trafficking Hotlines about child workers and sex trafficking issues at one or more of these hotels, and we commend the members of our community who help shine a light on these unspeakable crimes and give a voice to the voiceless.

Due to the number of victims already identified in this ongoing federal investigation and the breadth and combination of the alleged charges, the FBI has requested that anyone having additional information on the crimes occurring at these locations or other business locations in Nebraska where similar crimes occurred, please contact the Omaha FBI field office to report that information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

United States Attorney Lesley Woods said, “There is no evil greater than the evil that seeks to trap, oppress, and exploit human beings for profit or pleasure.&nbsp; Where that evil exists, Nebraska law enforcement working together at the federal, state, and local levels, as occurred in this case, will seek it, find it, root it out, and ensure every rescued victim has an opportunity to obtain justice and freedom from their captors.”

U.S. Attorney Woods commends the unparalleled investigative coordination and accomplishment of this case achieved by the combined efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, the Omaha Police Department, the Nebraska State Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Branch, the United States Marshals Service, and the Nebraska State Attorney General’s Office.&nbsp; U.S. Attorney Woods added, “When so many law enforcement agencies come together as one team, united in their relentless pursuit of justice, there is no organized crime network operating within Nebraska’s borders that can escape identification and accountability.”

Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel, leader of the Omaha FBI Field Office, stated, “Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery. This investigation revealed victims right here in the heart of the heartland forced into sexual activity, living and working in dangerous and filthy conditions, and extorted to work in grueling jobs with little to no pay. We will always stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners to aggressively identify and apprehend perpetrators of human trafficking, hold them accountable, and obtain justice for victims. Our approach to these horrific cases is always centered on the victims. We encourage anyone who may be a victim or have information about human trafficking to call us. We will continue to surge resources to arrest violent offenders in our community as part of the FBI’s Summer Heat Initiative.”

“There is nothing more reprehensible than exploiting human beings, particularly children, for sex, abusive labor conditions or deliberately violating U.S. immigration laws to profit from their suffering,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito of ICE HSI Kansas City, which covers Nebraska. “These criminals hide in the shadows, prey on the vulnerable and show no regard for the laws or values of our nation. Their crimes are calculated to be difficult to uncover but HSI and our federal partners have no intention of stopping until these predators are brought to justice and every victim is freed from their grip. ”

10 minors, 17 adults rescued from sex trafficking at Nebraska motels

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The United States announced Tuesday that it has taken into custody 26 fugitives from Mexico facing a range of federal and state criminal charges from around the country, including charges relating to drug-trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, illegal use of firearms, human smuggling, money laundering, the murder of a sheriffs’ deputy, and other crimes, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Among the fugitives taken into U.S. custody today are leaders and managers of dangerous drug cartels, such as those designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), and Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas). These fugitives are collectively alleged to have imported into the United States tonnage quantities of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin.

“Today is the latest example of the Trump administration's historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores -- under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country. We are grateful to Mexico’s National Security team for their collaboration in this matter.” &nbsp;

Included in today’s transfer are the following fugitives:

Fugitives wanted for violent crimes returned to the U.S. from Mexico 

Another regent says of University of Nebraska Regent Elizabeth O’Connor, ‘Of all the people I know who deserve second chances, she tops the list’

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/zachwendling/">Zach Wendling</a> <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/03/17/lincoln-senators-clash-over-nebraska-school-retirement-bill-as-school-leaders-weigh-in/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA —&nbsp;A University of Nebraska regent faces a felony charge for allegedly driving while under the influence of alcohol and crashing into another vehicle in mid-May, breaking the back and pelvis of a passenger in the other car.

NU Regent Elizabeth O’Connor of Omaha, 34, a former Douglas County deputy county attorney serving in her seventh year as a regent, is accused of a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=60-6,198#:~:text=60%2D6%2C198.,bodily%20injury%3B%20violation%3B%20penalty." target="_blank">DUI causing serious bodily injury</a>&nbsp;from the night of May 21 in Omaha’s Benson neighborhood, which is in&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/media/images/maps/2021/regents/omaha.pdf" target="_blank">O’Connor’s district</a>. The Class IIIA felony charge carries a maximum of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=28-105" target="_blank">three years in prison and 18 months post-release supervision</a>.

The severity of the allegation could impact whether O’Connor can serve. The&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=XV-2" target="_blank">Nebraska Constitution</a>&nbsp;bars felons from&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=29-112" target="_blank">holding public office</a>&nbsp;unless the person’s civil rights are restored by the Nebraska Board of Pardons, which consists of the governor, secretary of state and attorney general.

Neither O’Connor nor her attorney has yet addressed her future as a regent, a position to which she was reelected to a 6-year term in November.

According to police reports, O’Connor was driving her Subaru Outback east on Blondo Street about 8:33 p.m., when she crossed into the westbound lane and collided with a Ford Focus at the intersection of N 63rd and Blondo Streets.&nbsp;

Police said they found a half-empty bottle of Fireball Whisky in O’Connor’s vehicle and wrote that she was showing symptoms of intoxication, including bloodshot or watery eyes, slurred speech and alcohol on her breath.

Field sobriety tests confirmed her condition, the investigator wrote, and a blood test collected immediately after the crash indicated O’Connor had a blood alcohol concentration of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=60-6,196" target="_blank">four times the legal limit</a>: 0.321%.

Both vehicles were totaled, according to the accident report. The crash occurred minutes from O’Connor’s home.&nbsp;

The vehicle police say her car hit had five passengers in it, including three children. The driver and children sustained minor injuries, according to the police report. The woman seriously injured in the crash and O’Connor, who had minor injuries, were taken to the Nebraska Medical Center.

O’Connor declined to comment for this story, and her attorney could not be reached. The family involved in the crash also declined to comment when reached by the Nebraska Examiner. Two listed witnesses did not return calls seeking comment. A spokesperson for the University of Nebraska system said NU “does not comment on ongoing legal matters.”

It took two months to file charges, partly because of O’Connor’s employment as a civil attorney in the Douglas County Attorney’s Office until last Tuesday, when she resigned, the timing of which the County Attorney’s Office confirmed.

Omaha’s top prosecutors opted out of the case involving O’Connor, citing a potential conflict of interest. That left Omaha City Prosecutor Kevin Slimp to file the felony charge in Douglas County Court on July 30.&nbsp;

Slimp told the Examiner a key reason for the delay was waiting for the blood test to come back from the lab.&nbsp;The police report was amended July 22 to include the BAC results. Slimp said he also needed time to review the evidence.

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