State

High wind watch issued for the tri-state region

A High Wind Watch is in effect Thursday night through Friday for the Panhandle and surrounding region. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible, with dangerous travel and elevated fire danger. Secure loose items and avoid outdoor burning.

Wayne County citizens vote to remove county commissioner after summer rebate scandal

Sidney School Board receives clean audit for 2024-25 fiscal year

One last round: Beloved Bartender’s retirement draws in hundreds

Euni Diediker has been running Euni’s Palace for more than 40 years.

State officials recognize Human Trafficking Awareness Month

State officials and law enforcement met at the Nebraska State Capitol Tuesday to recognize January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Attorney General Hilgers also released the 2025 Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF) Report.

From first response to fire and smoke, Tyler Miller builds First Response Meat Company

Sidney's Tyler Miller found a new path after years in EMS, building First Response Meat Company through patience, family, and a love for cooking.

Columbus PD honors officers for heroism, dedication at first-ever recognition ceremony

The Columbus Police Department held its first Recognition Ceremony to honor officers for heroism, dedication, and service to the community, including a life-saving water rescue

Firefighters quickly contain two grass fires along Highway 30 near Potter

Potter Volunteer Fire Department crews quickly contained two grass fires along Highway 30 east of Potter Monday afternoon, limiting each blaze to about one acre.

BD expansion could mean 100+ jobs in Columbus

A Columbus-based pharmaceutical manufacturer is announcing a major expansion.

UNK and CCC Partner for Streamlined Path for Education Students

The path for the next generation of educators is now more streamlined in central Nebraska.

Sidney Schools students of the month

The Sidney School District Board of Education recognized the December Students of the Month Monday. The January school board meeting was held at Sidney High School to recognize the SHS football team.

Chadron's Dr. Julie Downing Honored with Friend of NSASSP Award

Julie Downing of Chadron has been named the 2025 Friend of NSASSP Award recipient for her leadership and support of Nebraska educators.

Two-vehicle injury crash closes Highway 26 in Scottsbluff

One person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Monday afternoon at Highway 26 and East 27th Street in Scottsbluff.

Norfolk public schools narrows superintendent search, announces candidate interviews

After a search since August 2025, Norfolk Public Schools will interview three superintendent candidates—Dr. Andrew Havelka, Darren Tobey, and Erik Wilson—with the announcement expected January 21

Hastings breaks ground on $35 million road infrastructure project

Ground is officially broken on a $35 million infrastructure project in Hastings.

Cheyenne man sentenced to prison in child sexual exploitation case

A Cheyenne man has been sentenced to 8 to 10 years in prison after being convicted of sexually exploiting and abusing a minor.

SAGA Fund to celebrate completion of $1 million challenge grant in Sidney

SAGA Fund will celebrate its $1 million challenge grant milestone Thursday at Boss City Brewing.

Former Mitchell Mayor arraigned in Scotts Bluff County Court

Former Mitchell Mayor Paul Murrell was arraigned in Scotts Bluff County Court Friday on four misdemeanors and a felony charges.

Chamber recognizes Cheyenne County achievements

The Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet Saturday, recognizing business achievements and community leaders.