HYANNIS, Neb. – United Way of Western Nebraska is pleased to announce that the next mobile food pantry will be held in Hyannis on Wednesday, March 25, beginning at 4 p.m. The mobile food pantries are part of a continued partnership between United Way of Western Nebraska and Food Bank for the Heartland. This event will be a drivethru distribution located at Calvary Episcopal Church, 302 E. Highway 2, Hyannis.

This free event is open to the public and provides food for families in need, with&nbsp;one distribution per household. The Mobile Pantry Program delivers fresh and shelf-stable food directly to communities with a high need but limited food resources. These one-day, drive-through distributions are free to attend. Community packs include various shelf-stable items. Along with community packs, other items distributed can include assorted produce, bread and dairy products.

A brief intake form will be completed for each household receiving food. If you are unable to attend, a&nbsp;proxy form&nbsp;is available to allow a family member or friend to pick up food on your behalf. Forms can be picked up in advance at:

-United Way Office: 723 Flack Ave Alliance, NE

-Online: <a href="http://uwwn.org/united-food-network">uwwn.org/united-food-network</a>

-By request: Call 3086352522 to have a form emailed or mailed to you.

-Enter the Calvary Episcopal parking lot from the west (do not cross traffic)

-Traffic will proceed down Highway 2, please park on the South side to ensure the roadway is clear for traffic

Please remain in your vehicle during food delivery.

United Way of Western Nebraska is seeking volunteers to assist with traffic flow, registration, packing and loading food during the mobile pantry. Community members, service groups and students looking to give back are encouraged to participate.

Those interested in volunteering may contact:

-Karen Benzel, Executive Director: kbenzel@uwwn.org

Additional 2026 United Way of Western Nebraska mobile food pantries are scheduled as follows:

United Way Of Western Nebraska Hosting Mobile Food Pantry In Hyannis

By Cara Pesek,&nbsp;NU Senior Director of Communications

University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, and University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine Dean Bradley Britigan, MD, attended a March 5 news conference announcing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ new pilot program expanding nutrition education in medical school curricula.

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&nbsp;led the event, announcing that medical schools across the country had committed to providing at least 40 hours of nutrition education as part of their medical school curricula.

Expanding nutrition education is an effort that has been underway at UNMC for several years.

Dr. Gold was a featured speaker at the event, which also included Secretary of Education Linda McMahon; Bobby Mukkumala, MD, president of the American Medical Association; David Skorton, MD, president of the Association of American Medical Colleges; and Robert Cain, DO, president of the American Association of College of Osteopathic Medicine.

<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/5tra8f/h7pjozpf/p9g4ep" target="_blank">See a list of participating institutions</a>.

“Much of our health is a gift from our parents. That is the genetic code that we carry, which may create risk, predisposition or even some outcomes, but the environment and lifestyle personal decisions frequently determine the timing, the severity and the total outcome of what that may be.

“The team-based system of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, therapists and so many others work hand in hand with our patients and their families and the communities and not just our medical schools, but our undergraduate colleges, our K-through-12 systems, our early childhood programs together to focus on health and wellness.”

<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/5tra8f/h7pjozpf/51h4ep" target="_blank">See HHS information on the event</a>.

Prior to the event, Dr. Gold said that education on healthy living, as well as disease prevention and treatment, is a critical component of physician training and&nbsp;necessitates an understanding of the role of nutrition in these areas.&nbsp;

“We are excited to participate in the effort to bring new focus to evidence-based nutrition education in medical school curricula,” Dr. Gold said. “This is an area the University of Nebraska Medical Center has been strengthening for a number of years, through the work of a dedicated team, established by the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine and our six other health professions colleges.&nbsp;Together these colleges have been working to expand the research and application of nutrition concepts across all phases of the medical curriculum.”

Geoffrey Talmon, MD, senior associate dean of medical education at UNMC, said the effort to expand nutrition education in the College of Medicine’s curriculum began in 2019 and was initiated at the request of medical students, and that a task force continues to explore ways to build the curriculum.

“The task force has done an incredible job of organically incorporating this material,” Dr. Talmon said. “We're definitely ahead of the curve compared to peer institutions on this issue, and the number of hours outlined in the initiative is in line with the goals we had set for ourselves.”

The college’s curriculum committee will continue to oversee the nutrition curriculum expansion and approve what, when and how things are taught, Dr. Talmon said.

NU Pres. Gold, UNMC Leaders, Join National Launch of Med School Nutrition Initiative

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-Brandon J Picket Pin, Burglary (Class 2A Felony)

-Tristen T Rolstad, Commit child abuse negligently/injury (Class 3A Felony)

-Crystal Winburn,&nbsp;Disorderly Conduct, Poss Cont Sub, Paraphernalia

-Carmen Huske,&nbsp;Disturb the peace, Poss Cont Sub, Paraphernalia, Smuggle contraband

-Carlos Trejo,&nbsp;Obstruction, Poss Cont Sub, Paphernalia

-Tyler Aguilar,&nbsp;Protection Order Violation (X6)

-Jeffery Rotherham,&nbsp;Domestic Assault, Strangulation

-Brett Graves,&nbsp; DUI, Refuse Chem test X2, Poss Marijuana, Poss paraphernalia, Carry Concealed Weapon

-Preston Salway,&nbsp;DUS, Poss. Marijuana, Poss Paraphernalia

Panhandle police activity, March 3 - March 9



The Nebraska State Fair is inviting artists of all ages to help celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in a creative new way.

Submissions are now being accepted for the Nebraska State Fair Marathon Race Shirt Design Contest, themed America 250. The contest, presented in partnership with the Grand Island Partnership for the Arts, invites participants to design the official race shirt for the Nebraska State Fair Marathon.

The winning design will be featured on the front of the official Nebraska State Fair Marathon race shirts, worn by runners from across the country.

“This contest is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the creativity of folks right here in our state,” said Karli Bartz, Nebraska State Fair Entertainment and Events Director. “We have so many talented individuals of all ages in Nebraska and we can’t wait to see what these artists dream up.”

Artists are encouraged to create an original design that captures the energy of the race, the excitement of the Nebraska State Fair, and the patriotic spirit of America’s 250th celebration.

-Incorporate elements of the Nebraska State Fair, running, and America 250

-Design size no larger than 8.5 inches wide by 11 inches tall

-Designs may be created digitally or on sturdy stock paper

-Both drawing and digital mediums are accepted

Submissions must be received by May 1, 2026 to be considered.

The Grand Prize winner will receive $1,000, have their design featured on the front of the official Nebraska State Fair Marathon race shirt, and receive a complimentary race shirt. Best of Show awards of $250 each will also be presented in four divisions: Adult, High School, Middle School, and Elementary School and Younger. Cash prizes are provided by Grand Island Partnership for the Arts.

Artists of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. Full contest details and submission instructions are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.statefair.org/marathon-t-shirt-design-contest" target="_blank">www.StateFair.org/marathon-t-shirt-design-contest</a>.

It All Happens Here:&nbsp;The 2026 Nebraska State Fair returns to Fonner Park in Grand Island for its 17th year, running Friday, August 28 through Labor Day, Monday, September 7. More information about agricultural events and competitions, carnival entertainment and musical performances is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.statefair.org/" target="_blank">www.StateFair.org</a>.

Nebraska State Fair Launches Marathon T-Shirt Design Contest

LINCOLN, Neb. - The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) today announced the launch of a newly redesigned driver license and state identification card, featuring new Nebraska-themed imagery, enhanced security elements and a new black-and-white photo format to better protect residents from identity fraud.

The updated design highlights iconic symbols from across the state. Featured on the card are images of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in Omaha, cattle grazing on the prairie, wheat, Nebraska’s Official state insect, the honeybee and the Wildcat hills in western Nebraska.

A key feature of the new credential is the use of a black-and-white (monochrome) photograph of the card holder. Black-and-white images enhance the ability to distinguish facial features by emphasizing structure, lighting and texture over color which supports identity verification efforts for law enforcement and businesses.

In addition to its refreshed appearance, the new credential incorporates advanced security features to prevent fraud and counterfeiting, including upgraded anti-counterfeiting technology, refined microprinting and additional embedded security elements supporting law enforcement efforts and safeguarding identities of Nebraskans.

“These new driver licenses and state ID cards celebrate the people, industry and landscapes that define Nebraska, while integrating the most up-to-date security features available,” said Rhonda Lahm, Director of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles. “The addition of monochrome photographs and enhanced security features further strengthens our ability to protect Nebraskans’ identities.”

The Nebraska DMV will begin issuing the new driver licenses and state ID cards at select locations beginning this month. All driver licensing service locations across the state will be issuing the new design by mid-April. Current credentials with the previous design will remain valid until the expiration date shown on the card. There is no requirement for residents to replace their existing credential before it expires.

“Cards with the previous design will continue to be valid for all official purposes until they reach their expiration date,” said Cheryl Porter, Administrator of the Driver Licensing Services Division. “Customers should renew or replace their credential only when they are otherwise required to do so.”

Nebraska updates the design of its driver licenses and state identification cards periodically to incorporate emerging security technologies and maintain the integrity of official state credentials.

More information about the new design is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dmv.nebraska.gov/dl/driver-license" target="_blank">dmv.nebraska.gov/dl/driver-license</a>.

Nebraska DMV Unveils Newly Redesigned Driver License and State ID Cards

The Box Butte County Republican Party will hold their county convention on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Alliance Public Library, Rooms A&amp;B, at 1750 Sweetwater Ave., in Alliance.

Pre-registration will be held at 9:45 a.m., with Call to Order at 10 a.m. Coffee and donuts will be served. The keynote speaker will be NEGOP Congressional District 3 Chair Christine Vail. She is the executive director for Keep Keith County Beautiful, in Ogallala.

Vail became actively involved with the NE GOP when Donald Trump first ran for the Presidency.

“It was after he came down that escalator to announce his candidacy that year,” she said. 

“I started a public Facebook page that soon garnered a ton of followers, so much so that I was invited to President Trump’s first Inaugural Ceremony in Washington D.C. in January of 2017.”

While all registered county Republicans are welcome to the convention, only registered delegates are eligible to vote for Box Butte County Republican Party Executive Committee office holders (Chair, Co-Chairs, Vice-Chair, Treas., Sec.) and for three delegates and three alternate delegates to the NEGOP State Convention being held this year on June 6 in LaVista, NE.

Box Butte County GOP to Hold County Convention on March 21

The morning session will focus on housing with a presentation from JEO on study and next steps for communities.

The afternoon session will cover childcare, with updates from the&nbsp;Panhandle Childcare Expansion Project&nbsp;and regional partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

6 Regions, One Nebraska Hosting Event in Gering Civic Center

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: A Digital Discussion With Molly

ALLIANCE, Neb. - “Stay out of the library!”, curious students heard as they paused by a closed sign at Alliance High Wednesday, March 4. It seems more than a few hoping to check out a book or maybe use the bathroom were unaware of the five schools competing in the second annual Art Day Challenge. The Bulldogs – Breanna Meggison, Peytann Lunbery, Roo Mashburn, Kyla Loper and Makenna Haskell – bested the visitors by just two points over runner-up Mitchell as teams of five fashioned art from a range of recyclable items.

Keep Alliance Beautiful supported the inaugural event by collecting everything from Styrofoam to cans, bottles and cardboard and whatever looked unique from the recycling center. AHS art teacher Kathy Brock topped off what was leftover from 2025 the morning of this year’s event. Bayard, Gordon/Rushville and Mitchell returned while Hemingford took part for the first time. However, all the artists worked as cohesive teams showing great organization. Just under two hours had passed as I stepped into the room and spied a jumble of newspapers, former boxes and odds and ends covering tables.

Looking a bit closer there was a method to the madness as components of the sculptures were already taking shape. Reflecting on the theme, “The Power of Music,” I noticed what would become guitars and other instruments. CD cases lined a painted box on Mitchell’s table. An oversized hunk of piano keys was among Alliance’s first creations –&nbsp;the girls commented that they were all in the spring musical (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) as well. Another dimension of connectivity and teamwork.

Though every entry was still in the works with the intended vision a few hours from completion, I was intrigued by the details emerging from items most of us wouldn’t look at twice in a recycling bin. Even a couple hot glue gun mishaps did not change the vibe.

After touring the perimeter where artists stood assembling and sat working at tables or on the floor, I stopped in the middle with their teachers for a few comments. Prep varied. At Hemingford they had printed out structural prompts for cardboard sculptures. Two of the students from Bayard “have brought it up since November and wanted to bring someone” their teacher Jessica Klassen told me, adding they had worked on assembling cardboard ahead of time. “I just told them to show up,” Kathy said.

Area high schools often showcase art publicly, though an extra-curricular style competition is not the norm in Northwest Nebraska. The Art Day Challenge was about two weeks before the AHS Art Gala. Western Trails Conference has been offering an art competition with the school hosting the track meet also showcasing student artists that spring. The juried show features both 2D and 3D works with a local artist judging and medals. However, it is still more of a show than a head-to-head competition.

Kathy would like to start an event similar to Wyoming’s where a statewide symposium (the largest in the nation) brings 4,500 pieces to the Ford Wyoming Center floor in Casper.

“If we don’t give kids the chance to shine . . . it’s (today’s event) a great chance to see what kids are doing,” Jessica said.

Extending curriculum beyond the classroom fosters interest in a potential hobby, field of study or even a career where you look forward to the day’s work. The five teachers were nearly as enthusiastic as their students when talking about keeping the Art Challenge going. “I like it because I get to hand pick my crew – like an atta boy,” said Steven Law from Mitchell.

KAB will gladly supply the media indefinitely for what is fast becoming a late-winter tradition. An assortment of one man’s trash among the library stacks may become a mystical creature, a Fender guitar or absolutely anything that can be imagined – just don’t skimp on the paint or hot glue.

AHS Wins (Recycled) Art Day Challenge By A Nose

Post Podcast: Kman's Concert Calendar, weekend of March 6 - March 10 

CHADRON, Neb. - Keep Chadron Beautiful will host its Second Annual Green Gala on March 21, celebrating the organization’s impact across the community and building on last year’s inaugural event's success. The 2025 gala brought together more than 120 community members who gathered to support Keep Chadron Beautiful’s mission of creating a cleaner, greener and more vibrant Chadron.

While some of the organization’s work happens quietly behind the scenes, its impact is felt throughout the community. Keep Chadron Beautiful hosts monthly recycling events on the third Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon in the Nebraska Bank parking lot, providing residents with a convenient way to recycle materials that might otherwise end up in the landfill. The organization also accepts electronic recycling throughout the year.

In 2025 alone, Keep Chadron Beautiful planted 9 trees in Chadron, continued beautification projects throughout town, and expanded its educational outreach. The organization hosted 42 youth programs in local schools and at the Chadron Public Library, reaching 1,382 students with lessons about recycling, sustainability and caring for the local environment. This nonprofit is also currently developing an education hub and community garden next to its office at 342 Main Street, a space shared with the Dawes County Veterans Service Office.

Funds raised through the Green Gala directly support Keep Chadron Beautiful’s recycling, beautification and environmental education efforts, with every dollar reinvested into programs that benefit the Chadron community.

This year’s gala, themed “The Giving Garden,” will take place on March 21 from 6–9 p.m. at the Chadron Arts Center at Fourth and King Street. Guests can expect an evening of food, music and community celebration. Catering will be provided by The Bean Broker Coffee House, which has created a menu inspired by spring. Wild’s Bar and Grill will provide beverage service with traditional spirits, mocktails and non-alcoholic options.

Each ticket includes a meal and two complimentary drink tickets. Guests are encouraged to attend in classic cocktail attire or whimsical outfits inspired by the Giving Garden theme.

The evening will feature live music from Jeremy Quick&nbsp;and Rayne Charging Thunder, followed by a closing set from Keith Reid of the Crazy Louie Band. A 50/50 raffle with second- and third-drawings for gift baskets, and a silent auction featuring locally donated items, including artwork, tools, kitchen goods, oil changes, acupuncture gift certificates and more, generously donated by local businesses.

Proceeds from the event will help expand Chadron’s recycling infrastructure, maintain recycling vehicles and trailers and grow youth education programs and partnerships with the Chadron Public Library.

Tickets are $40 for one, $75 for two, or $200 for a reserved table of six and are available now through KeepChadronBeautiful.org, the organization’s Facebook page, or at the Keep Chadron Beautiful office at 342 Main Street. Call Danny at 308-432-5959 for more info or to purchase tickets. Tickets are expected to sell out before the event.

Keep Chadron Beautiful Announces Second Annual Green Gala: “The Giving Garden”

Victory Underground to play in Alliance

Bex Marshall will perform at Take Shelter in Sidney on Tuesday, March 10 starting at 8:30pm.&nbsp;

Bex Marshall to perform in Sidney 

Avid to play in Scottsbluff

Kalin Krohe Reference, That One Guy to play in Sidney 

Jay and Amanda Music will be performing today, Thursday at Roberta Barnes, Where I Hang my Heart from 5pm – 7pm at West Nebraska Arts Center.&nbsp;

Jay and Amanda to perform in Scottsbluff 

Jessi Laine to perform in Kimball 

SKYWARN Spotter Training Coming to Hemingford on April 22

NEBRASKA PANHANDLE — Panhandle Frontier Finds is a regional event that will highlight western Nebraska’s businesses and people. Panhandle Frontier Finds (PFF) will debut June 5–7, 2026, bringing together communities, vendors, and travelers for a three-day, multi-county celebration of the region.

Communities across 11 counties are working together to bring visitors and residents out for community-wide garage sales, barn sales, antique shopping, crafters and more. But time slips away quickly, so grab your listing in the official Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide and advertise your sale or business to those hunting for bargains and vintage treasures.

Interested vendors can secure a listing in the sales booklet for $25-45 based on the type of listing. Panhandle businesses and organizations can advertise in the guide to drive business to their locations for $50-200 for display advertising, which must be camera ready and in black and white. There are also sponsorship and merchandising opportunities available for those interested in partnering with the event.

All vendor listings and ad space must be reserved by March 1 to be included in the printed Trail Guide. A limited quantity of Trail Guides will be made available throughout the Panhandle for free, or can be mailed for $5 shipping and handling.

Digital versions for viewing or download will be available at https://panhandlefrontierfinds.com/.

Additional information can be requested by emailing info@panhandlefrontierfinds.com.

Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide deadline coming soon

Country Music Jamboree to be held in Chadron 

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. –&nbsp;The Department of War announced the death of a U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Soldier who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, died March 8 of his wounds received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East. He was seriously injured at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, on March 1. Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson, Colorado. The incident is under investigation.

"The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, said. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

“Sgt. Pennington was a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and sense of duty,” Col. Michael F. Dyer, 1st Space Brigade commander, said. “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow Soldiers. We remain dedicated to providing comfort and support at this time and will forever honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”

Pennington, a resident of Glendale, Kentucky, enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017. He was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, USASMDC, on June 10, 2025.

Pennington’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

Pennington was promotable and will be posthumously promoted to staff sergeant.

Pentagon IDs 7th U.S. soldier to die in Iran conflict

On March 8, at the direction of the U.S. Souther Command Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Six male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.

The death toll is now 157 people since the U.S. military began targeting&nbsp; “narcoterrorists” in small vessels in September 2025.

🎥US military kills 6 in new strike on drug boat in the Eastern Pacific

On Saturday night, a U.S. service member passed away from injuries received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The service member was seriously wounded at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on March 1.

This is the seventh service member killed in action during Operation Epic Fury. Major combat operations continue. The identity of the fallen warrior will be withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

A U.S. National Guard Soldier also died in a health-related incident in Kuwait on March 6 during a medical emergency, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The exact cause of death is under review.

U.S. military reports more service member deaths in Iran conflict

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>

Online prediction markets allow users to put money on the outcome of almost anything — this weekend’s NBA game between the Warriors and the Thunder, the next supreme leader of Iran, whether the government will confirm the existence of aliens.

But those markets have no state oversight and operate even in states that ban gambling.

The platforms are raising bipartisan alarms, especially related to sports gambling. As states have legalized sports betting in recent years, they’ve required legal sportsbooks to jump through multiple hoops — from age verification procedures to protections for gambling addiction to tax collections. Online prediction markets circumvent all those rules.

Platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket say they are offering contracts similar to commodity markets that speculate on the future price of corn or oil — not outright gambling. But a growing number of states are rejecting those justifications, arguing the platforms are offering a backdoor to skirt state gambling regulations, particularly on sports.

The issue has sparked action from state regulators, new legislation, and lawsuits from both states and prediction markets. Complicating matters are the federal government’s moves to block state regulation of prediction markets, which see more than&nbsp;<a href="https://theconversation.com/everything-can-be-a-bet-now-the-rise-and-risks-of-prediction-markets-276464" target="_blank">$13 billion</a>&nbsp;in transactions each month.

Most activity on those platforms revolves around sports. And in national ads, Kalshi even marketed itself as the first national legal sports betting platform — even though states approve and regulate sports gambling since a 2018 Supreme Court decision. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/research/state-of-play-map/" target="_blank">11 states,</a>&nbsp;sports gambling remains illegal.

“This is sports wagering. If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s probably sports wagering, in this situation,” said Kentucky state Rep. Michael Meredith, a Republican.

Meredith, who sponsored a 2023 law that legalized sports betting in Kentucky, called for states to regulate prediction markets during a webinar hosted by the National Conference of State Legislatures. That organization, representing state legislators across the country, has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/resources/details/ncsl-urges-congress-to-address-unregulated-sports-betting-via-prediction-markets" target="_blank">urged Congress</a>&nbsp;“to act swiftly to address the rapid growth of unregulated sports‑related event contracts.”

State leaders argue their longstanding authority to oversee gambling should allow states to regulate or ban prediction market platforms. But those companies maintain they are not beholden to state regulations.

“I think it’s very clear that this authority should be vested in our state governments,” Meredith said last month.

In New York, lawmakers are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?default_fld=&amp;leg_video=&amp;bn=A09251&amp;term=&amp;Summary=Y&amp;Actions=Y&amp;Text=Y" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;that would ban prediction markets from offering contracts on sports events, in addition to natural disasters, acts of terrorism and deaths. In Nevada, where gambling and tourism are top economic drivers, regulators are involved in a&nbsp;<a href="https://nevadacurrent.com/2026/02/24/protracted-legal-fight-expected-in-nevada-v-kalshi/" target="_blank">protracted legal fight&nbsp;</a>after the state sought to stop prediction market activity on sports.

“To me, this is clearly gambling,” Thomas Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, which operates casinos and sports betting,&nbsp;said during a company&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/02/17/caesars-czr-q4-2025-earnings-call-transcript/" target="_blank">earnings call</a>&nbsp;in January.

But states are also fighting an obscure federal agency seeking to protect the emerging marketplace. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which regulates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/derivative.asp" target="_blank">derivatives</a>&nbsp;such as futures contracts on stocks, has asserted it has “exclusive jurisdiction” over prediction markets and promised to fight state regulatory efforts in court.

The CTFC did not respond to Stateline’s request for comment. Neither did Kalshi or Polymarket, two of the leading prediction market companies.

Unless Congress passes legislation, experts say the courts will ultimately decide what role states can play in regulating prediction markets.

The standoff has led to litigation between the platforms and states in at least eight states, and officials in 11 states have sent cease and desist orders to prediction market companies, according to the American Gaming Association, an industry group representing casinos and sports books. A bipartisan group of attorneys general from 39 states and the District of Columbia recently urged a federal court to uphold state authority to regulate sports gambling.

The American Gaming Association says prediction markets should either get out of the sports betting business or follow the same regulations and rules that apply to sportsbooks such as DraftKings and FanDuel.

“They don’t want to pay the taxes, they don’t want to undergo the compliance and provide all of the consumer protections that are required by states of operators who operate legal sports betting,” said Tres York, the vice president of government relations for the association.

The organization estimates states have lost out on more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/sports-event-contracts/" target="_blank">$570 million</a>&nbsp;in sports gambling tax revenues since prediction markets began offering sports events contracts.

Many state leaders and experts are<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/12/05/growth-of-sports-betting-may-be-linked-to-financial-woes-new-studies-find/" target="_blank">&nbsp;already concerned</a>&nbsp;about the societal effects from the meteoric rise of sports gambling, which has transformed collegiate and professional sports, and the potential for&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">manipulation</a>&nbsp;by players.

“If you already have what I would call an epidemic of sports betting addiction in this country when you have regulated sports betting, imagine what it’s going to be like when you have essentially unregulated sports betting,” said Benjamin Schiffrin, director of securities policy at Better Markets, a nonprofit watchdog group advocating for consumer and investor financial protections.

The wide range of available bets also is raising alarms over election integrity and insider trading. In addition to individual elections, prediction markets have allowed wagers on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the timing of the U.S. strike on Iran. Last week, hundreds of thousands of dollars were bet the day before the Iranian strikes, and more than 100 accounts cashed in $10,000 or more from successful predictions, according to a New York Times&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/03/upshot/prediction-markets-iran-strikes.html" target="_blank">analysis</a>.

“It’s a huge change to all of a sudden allow betting on elections, and it really threatens the underpinnings of our democracy,” Schiffrin said. “It just seems like there’s tremendous potential for wrongdoing.”

On its&nbsp;<a href="https://news.kalshi.com/p/values-and-principles-for-prediction-markets" target="_blank">website</a>, Kalshi says it operates under a “strict regulatory framework” with a suite of market integrity, surveillance, financial safeguards, and anti-manipulation protections.

Citing what it called “an onslaught” of state litigation, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission last month filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/PressReleases/9183-26" target="_blank">court brief&nbsp;</a>underscoring its authority to regulate prediction markets.

“To those who seek to challenge our authority in this space, let me be clear: We will see you in court,” Commissioner Mike Selig said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/Exit/index.htm?https://x.com/ChairmanSelig/status/2023744651216240966?s=20" target="_blank">video</a>&nbsp;posted on social media. Selig is the only member of the presidentially appointed commission, which currently has four vacancies.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, immediately vowed to oppose the federal agency and the prediction platforms in court. Gambling has been&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter9/76-9-S1402.html" target="_blank">banned</a>&nbsp;under the Utah Constitution since the state’s founding, and Cox posted on social media that prediction markets are “destroying the lives of families.”

Kalshi&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/24/kalshi-sues-utah-over-proposed-prop-betting-ban/" target="_blank">swiftly sued&nbsp;</a>the governor and the state in federal court in anticipation of enforcement efforts and pending legislation in Salt Lake City. The company’s lawsuit cited the governor’s post and a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2026/02/22/utah-gambling-apps-prediciton-markets-harmful-dangerous/" target="_blank">column penned</a>&nbsp;by Republican Attorney General Derek Brown explaining why he joined Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat, “in urging Congress to address offshore gambling operations that disregard state law and target young Americans.”

Utah Republican state Rep. Joseph Elison sponsored the&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/23/utah-legislature-advances-ban-on-proposition-betting/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;cited in Kalshi’s lawsuit. The bill, which has passed both chambers, would expand the state’s definition of gambling to include&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">proposition betting</a>&nbsp;— bets on the performance of an individual player or team that don’t necessarily affect the outcome of a competition. While Elison acknowledged the courts will ultimately determine the issue, he said prediction markets are essentially offering proposition betting without authorization.

”We’re 50 independent sovereigns that gave centralized government to the federal government to do certain things,” he told Stateline. “But the rest, we want those things to be under our purview. And this is one of those.”

In early rulings on the matter, courts have issued a mix of opinions: States have found initial success in state courts while results have been more mixed in federal courts, said Daniel Wallach, a gaming and sports gambling attorney tracking the issue.

But federal law has long affirmed state authority to oversee gambling, he said.

Despite attempts to cast transactions as investments, Wallach says courts will look at the substance of bets, which he said are almost indistinguishable from those made in state-regulated betting markets.

“The argument that this is investing rather than gambling is essentially elevating form over substance,” he said. “Plain and simple, this is wagering on the outcome of a sporting event.”

Wallach said state efforts such as cease and desist orders are counterproductive, as they essentially invite federal lawsuits from prediction market firms. He said states are better off pursuing gambling enforcement efforts in state courts, where several have won preliminary injunctions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-bans-kalshi-offering-sports-events-contracts-massachusetts-30-days-2026-02-06/" target="_blank">halting operations&nbsp;</a>of the platforms temporarily.

For now, he said the federal agency has applied almost no scrutiny of the platforms, noting that the president’s family has a financial interest in the industry.

Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, has a business interest in two of the largest online prediction markets, and the president’s social media platform Truth Social announced it would start its own prediction market, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/15/us/politics/donald-trump-jr-prediction-markets.html" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>.

Journalist Dustin Gouker, who authors<a href="https://substack.com/@dustingouker" target="_blank">&nbsp;newsletters</a>&nbsp;on gambling and prediction markets, noted that the CFTC rules that currently regulate prediction markets were built for financial products — not gambling. He said prediction markets have moved into the gaming market because “nobody said no.”

“It’s a bit of a mess,” he said. “If we’re going to have betting in 50 states for everyone 18 and over, shouldn’t we have thought about that a little bit more?”

Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:khardy@stateline.org">khardy@stateline.org</a>.&nbsp;

This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/03/06/kalshi-and-polymarket-are-skirting-laws-on-sports-betting-states-say/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Missouri Independent, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

Kalshi and Polymarket are skirting laws on sports betting, states say

🎥President attends dignified transfer of 6 Americans killed in Operation Epic Fury

CHICAGO (AP) — From former presidents to an NBA Hall of Famer to prominent pastors, stories of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jesse-jackson-dies-43abb84d2ffc76d967f9a5596ebd0be1">the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.’s</a>&nbsp;influence on politics, corporate boardrooms and picket lines loomed large Friday at a celebration honoring the late civil rights leader.

🎥Biden, Obama, Harris remember the late Rev. Jesse Jackson 

On Thursday, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby testified on the U.S. National Defense Strategy before the House Armed Services Committee.

During questioning, Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon said about President Trump. "He treats Putin with velvet gloves, but he gives Zelensky the old boxing glove treatment, and I don't get it. There's like a moral blindness in this administration when it comes to Russia."

🎥Neb. Congressman slams President Trump on treatment of Russia

<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/" target="_blank">BUSINESS WIRE</a>

KANSAS CITY—-EPR Properties announced Thursday that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a portfolio of seven regional parks from Six Flags Entertainment Corporation for a gross transactional value of $342 million, of which the Company provided approximately $315 million and our operating tenants provided the balance, including funds for working capital and capital improvements. This transaction significantly expands the Company's attractions portfolio and represents its largest acquisition since 2017.

<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/blog/looking-forward-a-new-chapter-for-six-flags?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWihBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsYzZtakF3WTVuRkxQZXZac3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkaAETJ4zMV0das0yoP6MkXkVMOgW3h5bzqF6ejIleo_FtIJzLiF41qZtpNt_aem_so5pEBI0IvQUgjNyUMGUwA">Click here for more detail</a>s on what the sale means for park guests

The seven parks comprise over 1,600 acres, featuring 418 attractions across five states and Canada, and drawing approximately 4.5 million annual attendees. The six regional parks that are located throughout the U.S. will be leased to and operated by Enchanted Parks (formerly Innovative Attraction Management) pursuant to a long-term master lease, and the one park located in Canada will be leased to and operated by La Ronde Operations, Inc. following the completion of the transaction. Both entities are proven operators with which the Company has an existing relationship.

"This strategic acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to expand our attractions portfolio with high-quality experiential real estate assets in established regional markets," said Gregory K. Silvers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EPR Properties. "These properties embody the essential characteristics we seek: delivering stable, long-term cash flows, strong drive-to accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant underlying land value. This transaction aligns with our disciplined investment criteria and accelerates our strategic expansion into experiential properties that create enduring value for our shareholders.”

Properties Included In Transaction

The company has acquired the non-Six Flags branded property names as part of the transaction and acquired rights to the Six Flags brand through 2026. The transaction is expected to close toward the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second quarter, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and third-party approvals. No significant impact on guests is expected during this transition. The parks will continue their regular operating schedules, and all season passes sold will be recognized through the 2026 operating season.

Worlds of Fun sold as part of $342 million deal

On Wednesday, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East in route to the United States, as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans return home.


Additional flights will be surged across the region and American citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel interested in the Department's charter flight or ground transportation options, should complete the Crisis Intake Form at <a href="https://t.co/ZUvr9gptAQ" target="_blank">http://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake</a> or contact the State Department's 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

US begins charter flights for stranded Americans wanting to leave the Middle East

The Department of War announced the death of two more Army Reserve Soldiers who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, 54, of Sacramento, Calif., was at the scene of the incident on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, and is believed to be the individual who perished at the scene, according to a statement from the DOW.

 Positive identification of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan will be completed by the medical examiner.  The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Pentagon releases names of 2 more U.S. soldiers killed in Iran conflict

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

CHADRON, Neb. – The Chadron State men's basketball team ended its season on a high note Saturday afternoon by pulling a 107-95 victory out of the fire in overtime versus the Westminster Griffins in the Chicoine Center.

In short, the Eagles dominated the first half by a 50-30 margin and the Griffins dominated the second half 56-36, thus tying the score 86-86 at the end of regulation. But the Eagles led all the way in overtime while outscoring the visitors 21-9 in the extra period. 

Both teams lived and died by the three-pointer. Chadron State was 11 of 18 from three-point range in the first half while Westminster was 1 of 15. The shoe was on the other foot in the second half when the Griffins were 7 of 16 from behind the arc and the Eagles were 2 of 14. Neither team made a trey in overtime, when CSC was 0-2 and the visitors 0-8 from long range.

Chadron State's three seniors who were saluted prior to the game were among the Eagles' heroes.  They joined forces to tally 64 points. 

Zach Smith nailed five of six three-point shots to lead the Eagles in the opening half when they built their 20-point intermission lead. He didn't make any three-pointers in the second half, but added a dunk and finished with a career-high 24 points.

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