By National Federation of Independent Businesses

LINCOLN, Neb. - The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Nebraska’s leading small business advocacy organization, recently announced the launch of its new, comprehensive&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCzzp23Khlhd895AB05gh-2FFU5JOHTVFWTHzzIoJOGkMEpMp5U_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyxRUI7FDwlDpi7-2BKXEn7MLR5XcsRhZmeeW3-2FmjVVy-2FQrXJTzocd6Ehtl5X0-2BuF2aG3pL8OXfQM-2BYmzUsXzE3pYRhZ4M-2BrnxevpIe9fst8mCYdHn9HiJ9OJg8Y9J99CDaZ717ERPq8ae-2FzgdqdMXcVmligYtp-2BkVZNtQcqrTxmmzz1pwtmFGsSVJ-2B9RbK-2BmVApCJP70dtupnNJFOfiwaRWwvjicBj2S35LPn4chI-2FaQskH-2BVGbzQhSXeRM-2FC6QBNXZYkc0NLl8UAiPenf5S-2Fiz1OMotv34aaugX53PxWXpXfg-3D" target="_blank">NFIB Voting Hub</a>&nbsp;to ensure that small business owners nationwide are equipped to participate fully in upcoming state and federal elections.

"Nebraska's small business community needs elected officials who champion common-sense, fiscally responsible policies,” said NFIB Nebraska State Director Ryan McIntosh. “The NFIB Voting Hub is a great tool to identify candidates dedicated to reducing unnecessary government burdens on Main Street businesses."

-Voter Registration and Planning:&nbsp;Users can quickly check their registration status, register to vote, request a ballot to vote by mail, and sign up for timely election reminders specific to their state’s dates and deadlines.

-Pro-Small Business Candidate Information:&nbsp;The Hub features NFIB’s official&nbsp;Voter Guides&nbsp;and a list of&nbsp;NFIB Endorsed Candidates—individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting the policies that benefit America’s small business community.

-State and Federal Action:&nbsp;Members can easily discover current legislative issues affecting their business and take immediate action, connecting advocacy to electoral choices.

By National Federation of Independent Businesses<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600954270300.png" alt="NFIB" />
 <figcaption>NFIB</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. - The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Nebraska’s leading small business advocacy organization, recently announced the launch of its new, comprehensive&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCzzp23Khlhd895AB05gh-2FFU5JOHTVFWTHzzIoJOGkMEpMp5U_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyxRUI7FDwlDpi7-2BKXEn7MLR5XcsRhZmeeW3-2FmjVVy-2FQrXJTzocd6Ehtl5X0-2BuF2aG3pL8OXfQM-2BYmzUsXzE3pYRhZ4M-2BrnxevpIe9fst8mCYdHn9HiJ9OJg8Y9J99CDaZ717ERPq8ae-2FzgdqdMXcVmligYtp-2BkVZNtQcqrTxmmzz1pwtmFGsSVJ-2B9RbK-2BmVApCJP70dtupnNJFOfiwaRWwvjicBj2S35LPn4chI-2FaQskH-2BVGbzQhSXeRM-2FC6QBNXZYkc0NLl8UAiPenf5S-2Fiz1OMotv34aaugX53PxWXpXfg-3D" target="_blank">NFIB Voting Hub</a>&nbsp;to ensure that small business owners nationwide are equipped to participate fully in upcoming state and federal elections."Nebraska's small business community needs elected officials who champion common-sense, fiscally responsible policies,” said NFIB Nebraska State Director Ryan McIntosh. “The NFIB Voting Hub is a great tool to identify candidates dedicated to reducing unnecessary government burdens on Main Street businesses."The new NFIB Voting Hub includes:-Voter Registration and Planning:&nbsp;Users can quickly check their registration status, register to vote, request a ballot to vote by mail, and sign up for timely election reminders specific to their state’s dates and deadlines.-Pro-Small Business Candidate Information:&nbsp;The Hub features NFIB’s official&nbsp;Voter Guides&nbsp;and a list of&nbsp;NFIB Endorsed Candidates—individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting the policies that benefit America’s small business community.-State and Federal Action:&nbsp;Members can easily discover current legislative issues affecting their business and take immediate action, connecting advocacy to electoral choices.

NFIB Launches Voting Hub to Empower Nebraska Small Business Owners

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Story Time Stars for ages 3-6 at Alliance Public Library will feature Beautiful Birds on January 6 and 8, Winter Warm-Ups on January 13 and 15, Spectacular Sports on January 20 and 22 then Pajama Dance Party on January 27 and 29. Story Time meets in the Children’s Room on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. with several stories, birthdays, music, puppets and crafts.

LEGO Club for grades K-2 will meet on Tuesdays, January 6 and 20 from 4-5 pm. LEGO Club for grades 3-5 will meet on Tuesday, January 13 from 4-5 pm. All LEGO events are in the APL

Community Room with all LEGO supplies remaining at the library for future events. For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By Alliance Public Library<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766961132692.png" alt="January Story Time" />
 <figcaption>January Story Time</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Story Time Stars for ages 3-6 at Alliance Public Library will feature Beautiful Birds on January 6 and 8, Winter Warm-Ups on January 13 and 15, Spectacular Sports on January 20 and 22 then Pajama Dance Party on January 27 and 29. Story Time meets in the Children’s Room on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. with several stories, birthdays, music, puppets and crafts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766961153456.png" alt="January LEGO Club" />
 <figcaption>January LEGO Club</figcaption>
 </figure>LEGO Club for grades K-2 will meet on Tuesdays, January 6 and 20 from 4-5 pm. LEGO Club for grades 3-5 will meet on Tuesday, January 13 from 4-5 pm. All LEGO events are in the APLCommunity Room with all LEGO supplies remaining at the library for future events. For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

January Story Time and LEGO Club at Alliance Public Library

Fire hydrants blend into the landscape. Drivers may take notice to stay the proper distance away to avoid a ticket. Dogs often pause at every one their owner passes on a walk. A freshly painted fire hydrant may add a little pizzazz to a downtown curb though does it really make a difference in the advent of a fire call?

Alliance Troop 216 scout Ethan Schulze will tell you all about the meaning behind the paint scheme that was the focus of his Eagle Scout project. Ethan, his fellow scouts and other volunteers spent a series of weekends restoring fire hydrants to code by painting them so firefighters can tell what pressure they are, he said. “It was 25 years since they were painted.”

Recently departed Alliance City Manager Seth Sorensen brought the idea to Ethan. The Life scout had considered building a public gaga ball pit among his initial ideas, “but I thought this is the best one I could have ever done – it has an everlasting effect on the community.”

Ethan scheduled two work weekends during this past August then finished on Oct. 4. Scouts competes with other interests and activities as he juggled weekends to accommodate weather and high school football. The volunteer response, however, proved solid. Ethan said he had multiple people every weekend, about a dozen each time. The City of Alliance supplied the paint while Ethan and his family donated all the brushes, gloves and safety wear.

Ethan did not just choose a few fire hydrants with paint worn off to the metal, he approached the task methodically – going by streets within an addition. Initially he thought they would be hand brushing but ended up spray painting. He said he had a goal of 30 though they hit that mark on the first day. Overall, working on a cross grid then by house and street the crew repainted 187 fire hydrants.

The process began east of Box Butte Avenue and proceeded toward Flack Avenue. Ethan said they drove around a day or two beforehand for an up-to-date preview. He explained a man had already painted a number of hydrants with an idea to focus on parade routes and emergency snow routes. Ethan identified hydrants that had not had a facelift and coordinated closely with his volunteers throughout the project. He took and posted photos so one part of his crew could see what others had done. If a few guys were done early they could pack up and help other volunteers on their section. Drawing from a full pallet, the painting continued until the City ran out of supplies.

Ethan said the experience “was really positive”, adding he received some letters. People also took note of the work and asked about what he was doing. The best part was "obviously, seeing them getting done.” The greatest challenge was getting out and seeing what needed to be painted, Ethan explained. Also, considering the range of fire hydrants involved, Ethan took great care not to paint a cap the wrong color.

“I learned a bunch of leadership tactics,” Ethan said. “. . . People donated whatever they could for time.” Coordinating behind the scenes, he really wanted to go out and paint. Ethan explained he had that opportunity on what proved to be a super windy last day although everything went smoothly.

By JOHN E. WEARE, KAB<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766773415802.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766773456141.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Fire hydrants blend into the landscape. Drivers may take notice to stay the proper distance away to avoid a ticket. Dogs often pause at every one their owner passes on a walk. A freshly painted fire hydrant may add a little pizzazz to a downtown curb though does it really make a difference in the advent of a fire call?Alliance Troop 216 scout Ethan Schulze will tell you all about the meaning behind the paint scheme that was the focus of his Eagle Scout project. Ethan, his fellow scouts and other volunteers spent a series of weekends restoring fire hydrants to code by painting them so firefighters can tell what pressure they are, he said. “It was 25 years since they were painted.”Recently departed Alliance City Manager Seth Sorensen brought the idea to Ethan. The Life scout had considered building a public gaga ball pit among his initial ideas, “but I thought this is the best one I could have ever done – it has an everlasting effect on the community.”Ethan scheduled two work weekends during this past August then finished on Oct. 4. Scouts competes with other interests and activities as he juggled weekends to accommodate weather and high school football. The volunteer response, however, proved solid. Ethan said he had multiple people every weekend, about a dozen each time. The City of Alliance supplied the paint while Ethan and his family donated all the brushes, gloves and safety wear.Ethan did not just choose a few fire hydrants with paint worn off to the metal, he approached the task methodically – going by streets within an addition. Initially he thought they would be hand brushing but ended up spray painting. He said he had a goal of 30 though they hit that mark on the first day. Overall, working on a cross grid then by house and street the crew repainted 187 fire hydrants.The process began east of Box Butte Avenue and proceeded toward Flack Avenue. Ethan said they drove around a day or two beforehand for an up-to-date preview. He explained a man had already painted a number of hydrants with an idea to focus on parade routes and emergency snow routes. Ethan identified hydrants that had not had a facelift and coordinated closely with his volunteers throughout the project. He took and posted photos so one part of his crew could see what others had done. If a few guys were done early they could pack up and help other volunteers on their section. Drawing from a full pallet, the painting continued until the City ran out of supplies.Ethan said the experience “was really positive”, adding he received some letters. People also took note of the work and asked about what he was doing. The best part was "obviously, seeing them getting done.” The greatest challenge was getting out and seeing what needed to be painted, Ethan explained. Also, considering the range of fire hydrants involved, Ethan took great care not to paint a cap the wrong color.“I learned a bunch of leadership tactics,” Ethan said. “. . . People donated whatever they could for time.” Coordinating behind the scenes, he really wanted to go out and paint. Ethan explained he had that opportunity on what proved to be a super windy last day although everything went smoothly.

KAB: Eagle Projects-Ethan Schulze

At approximately 5:05 p.m. on December 24, 2025, officers with the Scottsbluff Police Department responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a vehicle versus a pedestrian at the intersection of 5th Avenue and Highway 26.

While officers were en route to the scene, they were advised that the involved vehicle had left the area. Upon arrival, officers made contact with a 68-year-old male pedestrian. Prior to emergency personnel arriving on the scene, multiple citizens stopped to check on the well-being of the injured pedestrian. The pedestrian was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Regional West Emergency Medical Services for treatment of minor injuries sustained during the crash.

During the investigation, officers determined the pedestrian was crossing 5th Avenue during the designated crossing period when the involved vehicle was turning northbound onto 5th Avenue from Highway 26.

Following the investigation, officers identified Joan G. Siegfried, age 88, as the driver of the involved vehicle, a silver 2019 Buick LaCrosse. Siegfried was subsequently issued a citation for leaving the scene of an injury accident.

Agencies assisting with this incident included the Scottsbluff Fire Department, Regional West Emergency Medical Services, Regional West Medical Center, and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Department, which aided in the initial search for the involved vehicle.

The Scottsbluff Police Department would like to thank the multiple citizens who stopped to check on the well-being of the injured pedestrian prior to the arrival of emergency responders.

The Scottsbluff Police Department reminds motorists of the importance of remaining at the scene of any crash and immediately reporting the incident to authorities.

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentAt approximately 5:05 p.m. on December 24, 2025, officers with the Scottsbluff Police Department responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a vehicle versus a pedestrian at the intersection of 5th Avenue and Highway 26.While officers were en route to the scene, they were advised that the involved vehicle had left the area. Upon arrival, officers made contact with a 68-year-old male pedestrian. Prior to emergency personnel arriving on the scene, multiple citizens stopped to check on the well-being of the injured pedestrian. The pedestrian was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Regional West Emergency Medical Services for treatment of minor injuries sustained during the crash.During the investigation, officers determined the pedestrian was crossing 5th Avenue during the designated crossing period when the involved vehicle was turning northbound onto 5th Avenue from Highway 26.Following the investigation, officers identified Joan G. Siegfried, age 88, as the driver of the involved vehicle, a silver 2019 Buick LaCrosse. Siegfried was subsequently issued a citation for leaving the scene of an injury accident.Agencies assisting with this incident included the Scottsbluff Fire Department, Regional West Emergency Medical Services, Regional West Medical Center, and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Department, which aided in the initial search for the involved vehicle.The Scottsbluff Police Department would like to thank the multiple citizens who stopped to check on the well-being of the injured pedestrian prior to the arrival of emergency responders.The Scottsbluff Police Department reminds motorists of the importance of remaining at the scene of any crash and immediately reporting the incident to authorities.

Motor vehicle crash at 5th Ave and Highway 26 in Scottsbluff

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The City of Alliance Landfill will be picking up rollout dumpsters on Friday, Dec. 26, due to the Holidays falling on Wednesday, Dec. 24, and Thursday, Dec. 25.

Due to this temporary schedule change, the Landfill is allowing citizens to put any trash into their blue rollout dumpster if their black rollout dumpster becomes full. The lid to the blue rollout dumpster must remain open to be picked up on Friday, Dec. 26.

For any questions, please contact the Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571965688810.png" alt="City of Alliance" />
 <figcaption>City of Alliance</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – The City of Alliance Landfill will be picking up rollout dumpsters on Friday, Dec. 26, due to the Holidays falling on Wednesday, Dec. 24, and Thursday, Dec. 25.Due to this temporary schedule change, the Landfill is allowing citizens to put any trash into their blue rollout dumpster if their black rollout dumpster becomes full. The lid to the blue rollout dumpster must remain open to be picked up on Friday, Dec. 26.For any questions, please contact the Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

Landfill Temporary Rollout Dumpster Pickup Schedule

Applications for multispecies Super Tag and Combo lottery permits will be accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning Jan. 2, 2026.

The Super Tag lottery permit will be valid for one elk of either sex, one antelope of either sex, one deer of either sex and two turkeys (only toms and bearded hens may be taken in the spring). One permit will be authorized for Nebraska residents only, and one permit will be authorized for residents/nonresidents. People may apply for the residents-only permit once per year for $29. People may apply for the resident/nonresident permit multiple times per year for $11.50 per application.

The Combo permit will be valid for one antelope of either sex, one deer of either sex and two turkeys (only toms and bearded hens may be taken in the spring). One permit will be authorized for Nebraska residents only, and one permit will be authorized for nonresidents only. Qualifying persons may apply multiple times per year for $11.50 per application.

These multispecies lottery permits will be valid in 2026 and 2027 in open seasons with the appropriate weapons. Winners of these permits will require a Habitat Stamp.

Applications will be received beginning at 1 p.m. Central time on Jan. 2. They must be received by Game and Parks by 5 p.m. (11:59 p.m. if applying online) on July 2 (July 3 according to regulations, but offices will be closed for the Fourth of July holiday that day).

Beginning Jan. 2, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.OutdoorNebraska.org%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019b4cdd7b1f-2aa1a01b-aa5b-4571-9819-25e6a2f5491b-000000/98jVyCjUSL2XYjq6FIBZaBF9vqPHm2BrvBTKWm6m7w0=436" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to apply.

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716317555308.jpeg" alt=" Fogs rolls through the forested bluffs of Indian Cave State Park, which lies in the Missouri River bluffs south of Brownville. (Courtesy of Nebraskaland Magazine, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)" />
 <figcaption> Fogs rolls through the forested bluffs of Indian Cave State Park, which lies in the Missouri River bluffs south of Brownville. (Courtesy of Nebraskaland Magazine, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)</figcaption>
 </figure>Applications for multispecies Super Tag and Combo lottery permits will be accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning Jan. 2, 2026.The Super Tag lottery permit will be valid for one elk of either sex, one antelope of either sex, one deer of either sex and two turkeys (only toms and bearded hens may be taken in the spring). One permit will be authorized for Nebraska residents only, and one permit will be authorized for residents/nonresidents. People may apply for the residents-only permit once per year for $29. People may apply for the resident/nonresident permit multiple times per year for $11.50 per application.The Combo permit will be valid for one antelope of either sex, one deer of either sex and two turkeys (only toms and bearded hens may be taken in the spring). One permit will be authorized for Nebraska residents only, and one permit will be authorized for nonresidents only. Qualifying persons may apply multiple times per year for $11.50 per application.These multispecies lottery permits will be valid in 2026 and 2027 in open seasons with the appropriate weapons. Winners of these permits will require a Habitat Stamp.Applications will be received beginning at 1 p.m. Central time on Jan. 2. They must be received by Game and Parks by 5 p.m. (11:59 p.m. if applying online) on July 2 (July 3 according to regulations, but offices will be closed for the Fourth of July holiday that day).Beginning Jan. 2, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.OutdoorNebraska.org%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019b4cdd7b1f-2aa1a01b-aa5b-4571-9819-25e6a2f5491b-000000/98jVyCjUSL2XYjq6FIBZaBF9vqPHm2BrvBTKWm6m7w0=436" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to apply.

Multispecies Lottery Permit Applications Accepted Beginning Jan. 2

By Box Butte County Commissioners (Steve Burke,&nbsp;Brett Ditsch, Michael Sautter)

The Box Butte County Board of Equalization, which is comprised of the three Box Butte County Commissioners, has become increasingly frustrated with actions taken by Box Butte County Assessor Michelle Robinson (Assessor), the Nebraska Property Tax Administrator (PTA), and the Nebraska Tax Equalization and Review Commission (TERC) regarding the property valuation of a certain subclass of property in Box Butte County. The actions taken by all three have resulted in valuations that do not meet mass appraisal techniques, resulting in dis-equalized valuations for dwellings located in rural Box Butte County.

The PTA’s 2025 Reports and Opinion stated that “farm home sites do not carry the same value as rural residential home sites. The county assessor based on sales data determined that the first acre rural residential site needed to be raised to $50,000 whereas the farm home site remained at $20,000 after implementing new cost and depreciation, ag dwellings received a 35% economic depreciation that wasn’t applied to any other rural dwellings, resulting in dis-equalized valuations.”1 The PTA, however, did not have time to gather evidence to justify any recommendations regarding this issue.

Based on the information in the PTA’s 2025 Reports and Opinions, the Box Butte County Board of Equalization, during the valuation protest process available to property owners, lowered the first acre site on the rural residential subclass properties from $50,000 to $20,000. The Board subsequently filed a petition with TERC to have the entire rural residential subclass lowered from $50,000 to $20,000.

In TERC’s decision, they state that “the Commission finds that the valuation methodology for valuing the first acre of rural residential sites and farm home sites results in dis-equalization valuations. The County Board has demonstrated that the valuation methodology used to assess the first acres of rural residential land in Box Butte County results in values that are not equitable and in accordance with the law.”2

However, TERC denied an order to reduce the first acre home site for the rural residential sub-class based on the fact the “Board did not offer evidence of the result of the requested adjustment on the level of value of a class of subclass of real property in Box Butte County.”3 It’s the contention of the Board, based on research of state statutes 77-5023 “Whether or not the level of value determined by the commission[TERC] falls within an acceptable range or at the midpoint of an acceptable range may be determined to a reasonable degree of certainty relying upon generally accepted mass appraisal techniques.”, that this hyper-technical analysis is to be performed by TERC with the aid of the PTA.

After TERC’s finding and order denying the petition was received, Assessor Robinson proceeded with her improper and unlawful valuations and appealed the Board’s decisions made during the valuation protest, appealing to reverse the Board’s decision made during the valuation protest process lowering the first acre site on rural residential from $50,000 to $20,000. These fifty plus appeals are waiting for TERC’s ruling.

The Board, represented by Box Butte County Attorney Marissa Curtiss, appealed to the Nebraska Court of Appeals to contest the issue of whether it was the Board’s responsibility to provide evidence of level of value. It’s the Board’s contention that we met our burden of proof in the TERC appeal and were not required to provide the level of value. Unfortunately, we were not afforded the opportunity to have the case heard, as the County Attorney failed to properly or timely serve the summons on the parties, and the appeal was dismissed.

The Board’s frustration results from both the PTA and TERC, who concluded that Assessor Robinson’s valuations resulted in dis-equalization not in accordance with the law, however, both continue to favor the County Assessor over the taxpayer. The Board is also extremely disappointed with the County Attorney for failing to effectively represent the Board through the appeal process.

The Board remains committed to taxpayers of Box Butte County to get this issue resolved. We will continue to look for ways to equalize rural residential values for 2025 and will continue to contest these issues for valuations for 2026 next summer. It’s clear that the assessment methodology the County Assessor has employed results in dis-equalized valuations for dwellings located in rural Box Butte County and is against the law. We adamantly defend our decisions regarding lowering the first acre site from $50,000 to $20,000 for those who filed property valuation protests for 2025. Any rural residential subclass property owners who are involved in production agriculture are strongly encouraged to fill out an Ag Verification Form in the Assessor’s office as soon as possible.

<a href="https://terc.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/07Box%20Butte_8.pdf">https://terc.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/07Box%20Butte_8.pdf</a>&nbsp;

Page 4 and 5 2 25CP 0001 Box Butte County Order on Petition.pdf Page 4

By Box Butte County Commissioners (Steve Burke,&nbsp;Brett Ditsch, Michael Sautter)The Box Butte County Board of Equalization, which is comprised of the three Box Butte County Commissioners, has become increasingly frustrated with actions taken by Box Butte County Assessor Michelle Robinson (Assessor), the Nebraska Property Tax Administrator (PTA), and the Nebraska Tax Equalization and Review Commission (TERC) regarding the property valuation of a certain subclass of property in Box Butte County. The actions taken by all three have resulted in valuations that do not meet mass appraisal techniques, resulting in dis-equalized valuations for dwellings located in rural Box Butte County.The PTA’s 2025 Reports and Opinion stated that “farm home sites do not carry the same value as rural residential home sites. The county assessor based on sales data determined that the first acre rural residential site needed to be raised to $50,000 whereas the farm home site remained at $20,000 after implementing new cost and depreciation, ag dwellings received a 35% economic depreciation that wasn’t applied to any other rural dwellings, resulting in dis-equalized valuations.”1 The PTA, however, did not have time to gather evidence to justify any recommendations regarding this issue.Based on the information in the PTA’s 2025 Reports and Opinions, the Box Butte County Board of Equalization, during the valuation protest process available to property owners, lowered the first acre site on the rural residential subclass properties from $50,000 to $20,000. The Board subsequently filed a petition with TERC to have the entire rural residential subclass lowered from $50,000 to $20,000.In TERC’s decision, they state that “the Commission finds that the valuation methodology for valuing the first acre of rural residential sites and farm home sites results in dis-equalization valuations. The County Board has demonstrated that the valuation methodology used to assess the first acres of rural residential land in Box Butte County results in values that are not equitable and in accordance with the law.”2However, TERC denied an order to reduce the first acre home site for the rural residential sub-class based on the fact the “Board did not offer evidence of the result of the requested adjustment on the level of value of a class of subclass of real property in Box Butte County.”3 It’s the contention of the Board, based on research of state statutes 77-5023 “Whether or not the level of value determined by the commission[TERC] falls within an acceptable range or at the midpoint of an acceptable range may be determined to a reasonable degree of certainty relying upon generally accepted mass appraisal techniques.”, that this hyper-technical analysis is to be performed by TERC with the aid of the PTA.After TERC’s finding and order denying the petition was received, Assessor Robinson proceeded with her improper and unlawful valuations and appealed the Board’s decisions made during the valuation protest, appealing to reverse the Board’s decision made during the valuation protest process lowering the first acre site on rural residential from $50,000 to $20,000. These fifty plus appeals are waiting for TERC’s ruling.The Board, represented by Box Butte County Attorney Marissa Curtiss, appealed to the Nebraska Court of Appeals to contest the issue of whether it was the Board’s responsibility to provide evidence of level of value. It’s the Board’s contention that we met our burden of proof in the TERC appeal and were not required to provide the level of value. Unfortunately, we were not afforded the opportunity to have the case heard, as the County Attorney failed to properly or timely serve the summons on the parties, and the appeal was dismissed.The Board’s frustration results from both the PTA and TERC, who concluded that Assessor Robinson’s valuations resulted in dis-equalization not in accordance with the law, however, both continue to favor the County Assessor over the taxpayer. The Board is also extremely disappointed with the County Attorney for failing to effectively represent the Board through the appeal process.The Board remains committed to taxpayers of Box Butte County to get this issue resolved. We will continue to look for ways to equalize rural residential values for 2025 and will continue to contest these issues for valuations for 2026 next summer. It’s clear that the assessment methodology the County Assessor has employed results in dis-equalized valuations for dwellings located in rural Box Butte County and is against the law. We adamantly defend our decisions regarding lowering the first acre site from $50,000 to $20,000 for those who filed property valuation protests for 2025. Any rural residential subclass property owners who are involved in production agriculture are strongly encouraged to fill out an Ag Verification Form in the Assessor’s office as soon as possible.Page 17&nbsp;<a href="https://terc.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/07Box%20Butte_8.pdf">https://terc.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/07Box%20Butte_8.pdf</a>&nbsp;Page 4 and 5 2 25CP 0001 Box Butte County Order on Petition.pdf Page 4

Box Butte County Commissioners Frustrated with Property Assessment Actions That Left Some Property Owners Overtaxed

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

LINCOLN, Neb. — Gov. Jim Pillen is signaling Nebraska’s support for Union Pacific’s proposed merger with Norfolk Southern, pointing to job growth and the potential creation of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad.

The statement follows Union Pacific’s announcement that it and Norfolk Southern have filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board seeking federal approval. In its submission, Union Pacific projects the addition of more than 500 new managerial positions at its Omaha headquarters.

“With continued investment in its Omaha-based headquarters and the people of this great state, we are proud to support Union Pacific’s efforts to create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad,” Pillen said. “A Nebraska-born and grown business, UP helps our farming and ranching families feed the world and transports the materials that are building the future of our country. Nebraska — a friend to business and perfectly located to serve as a nationwide transportation hub — is proud to be home of UP’s past and future successes.”

Union Pacific’s ties to Nebraska date back more than 160 years. The railroad was created in 1862 after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Pacific Railway Act, and the company laid its first track in Omaha in 1865. Since then, Union Pacific has maintained its headquarters and long-standing presence in the state.

According to Union Pacific, approval of the merger would reshape freight rail service nationwide by transforming “10,000 existing lanes from interline service into faster, more efficient single-line service – eliminating time-consuming handoffs between railroads.”

The proposed merger now awaits review by the Surface Transportation Board, which will evaluate its potential economic, transportation, and competitive impacts before issuing a decision.

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766500797370.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. — Gov. Jim Pillen is signaling Nebraska’s support for Union Pacific’s proposed merger with Norfolk Southern, pointing to job growth and the potential creation of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad.The statement follows Union Pacific’s announcement that it and Norfolk Southern have filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board seeking federal approval. In its submission, Union Pacific projects the addition of more than 500 new managerial positions at its Omaha headquarters.“With continued investment in its Omaha-based headquarters and the people of this great state, we are proud to support Union Pacific’s efforts to create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad,” Pillen said. “A Nebraska-born and grown business, UP helps our farming and ranching families feed the world and transports the materials that are building the future of our country. Nebraska — a friend to business and perfectly located to serve as a nationwide transportation hub — is proud to be home of UP’s past and future successes.”Union Pacific’s ties to Nebraska date back more than 160 years. The railroad was created in 1862 after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Pacific Railway Act, and the company laid its first track in Omaha in 1865. Since then, Union Pacific has maintained its headquarters and long-standing presence in the state.According to Union Pacific, approval of the merger would reshape freight rail service nationwide by transforming “10,000 existing lanes from interline service into faster, more efficient single-line service – eliminating time-consuming handoffs between railroads.”The proposed merger now awaits review by the Surface Transportation Board, which will evaluate its potential economic, transportation, and competitive impacts before issuing a decision.

Pillen Voices Nebraska’s Support for Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern Merger, Citing Jobs and Rail Expansion

Bayard, NE - Admission is free at the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center at the Chimney Rock State Historical Site from Friday, Dec. 26, through Wednesday, Dec. 31, for local families and those traveling through the Panhandle this holiday season. The weeklong free admission to the museum and scheduled programs are made possible with funding from the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation Abbott Funds.

The Dec. 26 program, sponsored by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation, centers on a “Little House on the Prairie” theme, presented by Western Nebraska Coordinator Sandra Reddish of the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation.

Daily programming from Saturday, Dec. 27, through Wednesday, Dec.31, includes presentations and programs beginning at 10 a.m. – Guns on the Oregon Trail; 11 a.m. – Nebraska’s Monument Valley Slide Show; 2 p.m. – Life on the Oregon Trail; and 3 p.m. – Drones and other Chimney Rock Videos. All events are MT.

New programming begins Saturday, Dec. 27, at 1 p.m. MT, with the "Evolution of Nebraska," by historian Brian Croft. He’ll lead a guided discussion about how Nebraska came to be and why it has been referred to as being formed out of the so-called Great American Desert. His talk will include archival maps that help story.

The new programming continues Sunday, Dec. 28, at 1 p.m. MT with “Winter Travel on the Oregon Trail.” Winter travel can be perilous. Winter emergency kits for vehicles are recommended. Imagine having to make the same trip across Nebraska or the whole Oregon Trail in 1844. Chimney Rock State Historic Site Manager Loren Pospisil will talk about traveling in the dead of winter along the Great Platte River Road.

Pospisil is excited about the opportunity this is for local families and travelers driving through western Nebraska. “This is different from what we’ve done in the past,” said Pospisil. “Our objective is to provide an opportunity to families who might not be able to visit the museum during the regular Tuesday – Saturday business hours in the winter season.

“If you have some late Christmas shopping to do, this would be a great opportunity to browse our gift shop with items for all ages.”

The Walk to the Rock trails, managed by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation and always free to experience, will also be open and available for guests.

Holiday-related refreshments will be served daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MT.

For more information about these programs at the Chimney Rock Museum at the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor’s Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://history.nebraska.gov/</a>&nbsp;or call 308-586-2581.

About Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS)

NSHS collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people. NSHS operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state, including Chimney Rock Museum at the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 570 historical markers placed across Nebraska. NSHS administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://history.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

By Nebraska State Historical Society<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140302816.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy: Great Plains James" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy: Great Plains James</figcaption>
 </figure>Bayard, NE - Admission is free at the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center at the Chimney Rock State Historical Site from Friday, Dec. 26, through Wednesday, Dec. 31, for local families and those traveling through the Panhandle this holiday season. The weeklong free admission to the museum and scheduled programs are made possible with funding from the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation Abbott Funds.The Dec. 26 program, sponsored by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation, centers on a “Little House on the Prairie” theme, presented by Western Nebraska Coordinator Sandra Reddish of the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation.Daily programming from Saturday, Dec. 27, through Wednesday, Dec.31, includes presentations and programs beginning at 10 a.m. – Guns on the Oregon Trail; 11 a.m. – Nebraska’s Monument Valley Slide Show; 2 p.m. – Life on the Oregon Trail; and 3 p.m. – Drones and other Chimney Rock Videos. All events are MT.New programming begins Saturday, Dec. 27, at 1 p.m. MT, with the "Evolution of Nebraska," by historian Brian Croft. He’ll lead a guided discussion about how Nebraska came to be and why it has been referred to as being formed out of the so-called Great American Desert. His talk will include archival maps that help story.The new programming continues Sunday, Dec. 28, at 1 p.m. MT with “Winter Travel on the Oregon Trail.” Winter travel can be perilous. Winter emergency kits for vehicles are recommended. Imagine having to make the same trip across Nebraska or the whole Oregon Trail in 1844. Chimney Rock State Historic Site Manager Loren Pospisil will talk about traveling in the dead of winter along the Great Platte River Road.Pospisil is excited about the opportunity this is for local families and travelers driving through western Nebraska. “This is different from what we’ve done in the past,” said Pospisil. “Our objective is to provide an opportunity to families who might not be able to visit the museum during the regular Tuesday – Saturday business hours in the winter season.“If you have some late Christmas shopping to do, this would be a great opportunity to browse our gift shop with items for all ages.”The Walk to the Rock trails, managed by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation and always free to experience, will also be open and available for guests.Holiday-related refreshments will be served daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MT.For more information about these programs at the Chimney Rock Museum at the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor’s Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://history.nebraska.gov/</a>&nbsp;or call 308-586-2581.About Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS)NSHS collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people. NSHS operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state, including Chimney Rock Museum at the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 570 historical markers placed across Nebraska. NSHS administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">https://history.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Free Admission at Chimney Rock Christmas through New Year’s Eve, New Historical Programming to be Presented

Scottsbluff, Nebraska - J.G. Elliott Insurance Center has today announced the intent to merge Enevoldsen Insurance Agency in Potter, Nebraska and Kimball Insurance in Kimball, Nebraska into J.G. Elliott. The transaction expands J.G. Elliott’s presence across western Nebraska and enhances service capabilities for personal, commercial, farm and ranch, and specialty insurance customers.

With J.G. Elliott Insurance Center, clients of Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance will retain their trusted local advisors while gaining access to a broader carrier network, deeper risk advisory resources, and expanded service tools.

“We’re proud to welcome Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance into the J.G. Elliott family,” said Kesha Hoehne, President of J.G. Elliott Insurance Center. “Both agencies share our commitment to personal relationships, local expertise, and doing what’s right for customers. This combination brings the best of both worlds—hometown service with expanded options and capabilities.”

All current team members at Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance are expected to transition to J.G. Elliott, ensuring continuity of relationships and service.

“Our clients are our neighbors, friends, and fellow business owners,” said Josh Enevoldsen, President of Kimball Insurance Agency. “Joining J.G. Elliott enables us to keep that local, personal touch while offering more companies, and the expanded technology customers expect. We’re excited about what this means for Kimball, Potter, and the surrounding communities.”

J.G. Elliott Insurance Center offers personal, business, life and health, as well as farm and crop insurance products, just to name a few. J.G. Elliott has five locations: Scottsbluff, Chadron, NE and Casper, Torrington, and Wheatland, WY. The company was founded in 1920 and is a subsidiary of Platte Valley Companies.

Womble Bond Dickinson LLP served as legal counsel to Platte Valley Financial Services Companies, Inc. Olsen Palmer LLC served as financial advisor to Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance, and Cline Williams Wright Johnson &amp; Oldfather LLP served as its legal counsel.

Platte Valley Financial Service Companies, Inc. consists of Platte Valley Bank in Scottsbluff, Gering, Bridgeport, Alliance, Chadron, Morrill, and Sidney, Nebraska; Platte Valley Bank in Casper, Torrington, Cheyenne and Wheatland, Wyoming; Mountain Valley Bank in Walden, Steamboat Springs, Hayden, Meeker, Fort Collins, and Greeley, Colorado; J.G. Elliott Insurance Center in Scottsbluff and Chadron, Nebraska and Casper, Torrington and Wheatland, Wyoming; C.H. Brown Co. LLC., in Wheatland, Wyoming; and Platte Valley Investment Center, Inc. in Scottsbluff, Nebraska

For Immediate Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766429524575.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Scottsbluff, Nebraska - J.G. Elliott Insurance Center has today announced the intent to merge Enevoldsen Insurance Agency in Potter, Nebraska and Kimball Insurance in Kimball, Nebraska into J.G. Elliott. The transaction expands J.G. Elliott’s presence across western Nebraska and enhances service capabilities for personal, commercial, farm and ranch, and specialty insurance customers.With J.G. Elliott Insurance Center, clients of Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance will retain their trusted local advisors while gaining access to a broader carrier network, deeper risk advisory resources, and expanded service tools.“We’re proud to welcome Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance into the J.G. Elliott family,” said Kesha Hoehne, President of J.G. Elliott Insurance Center. “Both agencies share our commitment to personal relationships, local expertise, and doing what’s right for customers. This combination brings the best of both worlds—hometown service with expanded options and capabilities.”All current team members at Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance are expected to transition to J.G. Elliott, ensuring continuity of relationships and service.“Our clients are our neighbors, friends, and fellow business owners,” said Josh Enevoldsen, President of Kimball Insurance Agency. “Joining J.G. Elliott enables us to keep that local, personal touch while offering more companies, and the expanded technology customers expect. We’re excited about what this means for Kimball, Potter, and the surrounding communities.”J.G. Elliott Insurance Center offers personal, business, life and health, as well as farm and crop insurance products, just to name a few. J.G. Elliott has five locations: Scottsbluff, Chadron, NE and Casper, Torrington, and Wheatland, WY. The company was founded in 1920 and is a subsidiary of Platte Valley Companies.Womble Bond Dickinson LLP served as legal counsel to Platte Valley Financial Services Companies, Inc. Olsen Palmer LLC served as financial advisor to Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance, and Cline Williams Wright Johnson &amp; Oldfather LLP served as its legal counsel.Platte Valley Financial Service Companies, Inc. consists of Platte Valley Bank in Scottsbluff, Gering, Bridgeport, Alliance, Chadron, Morrill, and Sidney, Nebraska; Platte Valley Bank in Casper, Torrington, Cheyenne and Wheatland, Wyoming; Mountain Valley Bank in Walden, Steamboat Springs, Hayden, Meeker, Fort Collins, and Greeley, Colorado; J.G. Elliott Insurance Center in Scottsbluff and Chadron, Nebraska and Casper, Torrington and Wheatland, Wyoming; C.H. Brown Co. LLC., in Wheatland, Wyoming; and Platte Valley Investment Center, Inc. in Scottsbluff, Nebraska

J.G. Elliott Insurance Center Announces Merger Agreement With Enevoldsen Insurance Agency and Kimball Insurance

Scottsbluff, Nebraska. December 22, 2025 - Platte Valley Financial Services Companies, Inc, led by Chairman, President and CEO Hod Kosman, has entered into a definitive agreement to merge Enevoldsen Management Company and its banking subsidiary The Potter State Bank of Potter into Platte Valley Financial Services Companies. This partnership, unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Platte Valley Bank and Enevoldsen Management Company, remains subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.

Platte Valley Bank will assume all deposits and loans, as well as the full-service branch locations in Potter and Kimball, Nebraska. This strategic combination strengthens the shared mission of both organizations: delivering exceptional service and fostering long-term relationships within the communities they proudly serve.

Current employees, including members of the Enevoldsen family, will continue to serve customers after the partnership is finalized, ensuring continuity of relationships and honoring the family’s long-standing commitment to both communities. The partnership also creates stronger connections for customers in Sidney and throughout Cheyenne County as well as Kimball and Kimball County, making it easier to access the services they need—right where they live and work.

“This partnership is about deepening our roots in the communities we call home. For more than a century, both organizations have shared a commitment to serving families, businesses, and neighbors with care and integrity. By coming together, we are honoring those shared values and ensuring that future generations will continue to have a trusted partner in their financial journey. Our promise remains the same: to invest in people, strengthen local communities, and build lasting relationships that stand the test of time.”

Kirk Enevoldsen, President of Potter State Bank, added:

For over 100 years, our organizations have built relationships that span generations, rooted in trust and community. Joining forces with Platte Valley Bank ensures that our customers will continue to receive the personalized care they value, while benefiting from expanded resources and opportunities. We are pleased that members of the Enevoldsen family will remain actively involved, continuing the tradition of service that has defined our bank for more than a century.”

The combination brings together two organizations with aligned missions and strong, shared values-enhancing service for customers, employees, and communities across Western Nebraska. Customers will enjoy expanded access to products, technology, and resources while continuing to experience the personalized, relationship-based banking they trust.

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026. Womble Bond Dickinson LLP served as legal counsel to Platte Valley Financial Services Companies, Inc. Olsen Palmer LLC served as financial advisor to Enevoldsen Management Company, and Cline Williams Wright Johnson &amp; Oldfather LLP served as its legal counsel.

By Platte Valley BankScottsbluff, Nebraska. December 22, 2025 - Platte Valley Financial Services Companies, Inc, led by Chairman, President and CEO Hod Kosman, has entered into a definitive agreement to merge Enevoldsen Management Company and its banking subsidiary The Potter State Bank of Potter into Platte Valley Financial Services Companies. This partnership, unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Platte Valley Bank and Enevoldsen Management Company, remains subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.Platte Valley Bank will assume all deposits and loans, as well as the full-service branch locations in Potter and Kimball, Nebraska. This strategic combination strengthens the shared mission of both organizations: delivering exceptional service and fostering long-term relationships within the communities they proudly serve.Current employees, including members of the Enevoldsen family, will continue to serve customers after the partnership is finalized, ensuring continuity of relationships and honoring the family’s long-standing commitment to both communities. The partnership also creates stronger connections for customers in Sidney and throughout Cheyenne County as well as Kimball and Kimball County, making it easier to access the services they need—right where they live and work.Hod Kosman commented:“This partnership is about deepening our roots in the communities we call home. For more than a century, both organizations have shared a commitment to serving families, businesses, and neighbors with care and integrity. By coming together, we are honoring those shared values and ensuring that future generations will continue to have a trusted partner in their financial journey. Our promise remains the same: to invest in people, strengthen local communities, and build lasting relationships that stand the test of time.”Kirk Enevoldsen, President of Potter State Bank, added:For over 100 years, our organizations have built relationships that span generations, rooted in trust and community. Joining forces with Platte Valley Bank ensures that our customers will continue to receive the personalized care they value, while benefiting from expanded resources and opportunities. We are pleased that members of the Enevoldsen family will remain actively involved, continuing the tradition of service that has defined our bank for more than a century.”The combination brings together two organizations with aligned missions and strong, shared values-enhancing service for customers, employees, and communities across Western Nebraska. Customers will enjoy expanded access to products, technology, and resources while continuing to experience the personalized, relationship-based banking they trust.The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026. Womble Bond Dickinson LLP served as legal counsel to Platte Valley Financial Services Companies, Inc. Olsen Palmer LLC served as financial advisor to Enevoldsen Management Company, and Cline Williams Wright Johnson &amp; Oldfather LLP served as its legal counsel.Platte Valley Financial Service Companies, Inc. consists of Platte Valley Bank in Scottsbluff, Gering, Bridgeport, Alliance, Chadron, Morrill, and Sidney, Nebraska; Platte Valley Bank in Casper, Torrington, Cheyenne and Wheatland, Wyoming; Mountain Valley Bank in Walden, Steamboat Springs, Hayden, Meeker, Fort Collins, and Greeley, Colorado; J.G. Elliott Insurance Center in Scottsbluff and Chadron, Nebraska and Casper, Torrington and Wheatland, Wyoming; C.H. Brown Co. LLC., in Wheatland, Wyoming; and Platte Valley Investment Center, Inc. in Scottsbluff, Nebraska

Platte Valley Bank announces merger agreement with Potter State Bank

&nbsp; Keep Alliance Beautiful will be picking up their regular curb side routes on Tuesday, Dec. 23, rather than Wednesday, Dec. 24 for the holidays.&nbsp;

By Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp; Keep Alliance Beautiful will be picking up their regular curb side routes on Tuesday, Dec. 23, rather than Wednesday, Dec. 24 for the holidays.&nbsp;

Keep Alliance Beautiful announcement on holiday curb side recycling

CHADRON – Chadron State College has announced the undergraduate students on the Fall 2025 President’s and Dean’s Lists. The President's List consists of students with a 4.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Students met the requirements for the Dean’s List by earning at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average.

To qualify for either list, students must be enrolled in 12 credit hours of coursework, pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, and have no incomplete grades during the semester. Cities, states, and countries listed are provided by the students.

Alliance: Olivia Behrends, Sonya Behrends, Lizbeth Carrillo, Krish Chaudhari, Maycee Garcia, Keegan Grant, Maggie Jenkins, Jonah Matulka, Kaytlin Norris, Miah Peters- Marsteller, Taylee Thompson, Isaac Weems

Bridgeport: Kaylee Barnett, Luke Kesselring

Broken Bow: Justin Johnson, Chayse Kaelin, Kenna McCaslin

Brule: Andrew Orth, Isaac Orth, Dashle Richards

Chadron: Iskandar Albitar, Taegan Bach, Ross Bowman, Caden Buskirk, Kyndall Carnahan, Rhett Cullers, Kayah Dogert, Makinley Fuller, Micaiah Fuller, Dylan Gieseler, Jacqueline Gilbert, Kiera Haag, Talon Jelinek, Amanda Kittell, Brayden Landreth, Connor Lopez, Jaleigh McCartney, Emilynn O'Donnell, Aubree Pankonin, Kaylee Sprock, Hunter Townsend, Owen Wess, Haylee Wild

Cozad: Yanet Curiel, Hannah Smith, Jorja Yocom

Fremont: Isabelle Akins, Lindsey Jannenga, Jason Kubicek

Gering: Brenda Borjas, Kane Mathson, Valentina Mejia, Jessica Mesa, Kerry Olson, Porter Robbins, Maia Swan, Gracie Trauernicht

Gothenburg: Ellarey Harm, Rylee Naprstek, Shania Wear, Alana Wheatley

Grand Island: Emily Green, Jacqueline Juarez-Meier

Hay Springs: November Diers, Molly Spicer, Samantha Toof, Shyanne Wojcik

Hebron: Brenner McLaughlin, Kaisha McLaughlin

Kearney: Joshua Hamilton, Elle Hewitt, Logan O'Brien, Garrett O'Hare, Preston Pearson, Carmen Throckmorton

Lincoln: Pablo Barta, Jillian Donovan, Shelby Harding, Caleb Olenick, Drew Whitney

Loup City: Ella Jaixen, Hailey Rademacher

McCook: Kaylee Eckert, Shelbi Hazlitt, Danielle Mowry, Samantha Rodewald, Mindy Rogers, Harper Stevens, Ruby Stone

Norfolk: Piper Craig, Teresa Goodrich, Brandon Kollars, Madelyn Pilakowski, Amanda Sellin, Samantha Zoucha

North Platte: Madilyn Ayres, Lisa Bourne, Haley Empfield, Kaitlyn Evans, Elleigh Fisher, Skyler Geier-Dodson, Bridget Jacobs-Blythman, Coy McConnell, Makenna Modlin, Christine Ochsner, Juliana Ortiz, Kadence Roblee, Kari Stutzman, Shyanne Waltemath, Bryce Wiedeman

O’Neill: Mecal Cafaro, Mason Crumrine, Heather Heller, Mallorie Scott

Ord: Devin Konicek, Grady Moudry, Shaylee Thomsen

Papillion: Mary Frauendorfer, Dawn Hammock, Nicole Snavely, Breanna Zank

Paxton: Noah Connick, Crystal Fox, Jayden Gartner, Sierra Hicks

Scottsbluff: Irelynd Baldwin, Hans Bastron, Dyllan Coop, Paige Fisher, Taylor Gier, Ethan Gion, Adanijah Gonzales, Vanessa Gurrola, Katherine Hoevet, Caden Keller, Avery Kildow, Alyssa Liebich, Madison Miller, Madysen Powell, Ty Robles, Piper Ryschon, Isabella Soto

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College has announced the undergraduate students on the Fall 2025 President’s and Dean’s Lists. The President's List consists of students with a 4.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Students met the requirements for the Dean’s List by earning at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average.To qualify for either list, students must be enrolled in 12 credit hours of coursework, pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, and have no incomplete grades during the semester. Cities, states, and countries listed are provided by the students.President’s ListNebraskaAlbion: Payton SullivanAlliance: Olivia Behrends, Sonya Behrends, Lizbeth Carrillo, Krish Chaudhari, Maycee Garcia, Keegan Grant, Maggie Jenkins, Jonah Matulka, Kaytlin Norris, Miah Peters- Marsteller, Taylee Thompson, Isaac WeemsAlma: Kodi MeyerAmelia: Jayna MosesAmherst: MaKinna BowmanAnsley: Jaime McAbee, Jessica O'BrienArcher: Megan UrbanArlington: Millie MitchellAurora: Jason McDonald, Keelan PhillipsAxtell: Mandy StrolbergBassett: Matyson HollenbeckBayard: Jaime Cawley, Scarlett NormanBlair: Wrylee OsterhausBlue Hill: Molly CoffeyBrady: Kirby CorfieldBrewster: Elizabeth PetersonBridgeport: Kaylee Barnett, Luke KesselringBroken Bow: Justin Johnson, Chayse Kaelin, Kenna McCaslinBrule: Andrew Orth, Isaac Orth, Dashle RichardsBurwell: Kylee SimonCairo: Katie HadenfeldtCedar Bluffs: Ashley CallahanChadron: Iskandar Albitar, Taegan Bach, Ross Bowman, Caden Buskirk, Kyndall Carnahan, Rhett Cullers, Kayah Dogert, Makinley Fuller, Micaiah Fuller, Dylan Gieseler, Jacqueline Gilbert, Kiera Haag, Talon Jelinek, Amanda Kittell, Brayden Landreth, Connor Lopez, Jaleigh McCartney, Emilynn O'Donnell, Aubree Pankonin, Kaylee Sprock, Hunter Townsend, Owen Wess, Haylee WildChapman: Shawna Us TicumChappell: Emily MarinClearwater: Cecily ThieleColon: Lily RaftesethColumbus: Aubrey StrombergCozad: Yanet Curiel, Hannah Smith, Jorja YocomCrawford: Kaylee HughesCreston: Hannah OganDalton: Kaitlyn JonesDodge: Vicki MillerDuncan: Liam BlaserElkhorn: Mason VillwokFremont: Isabelle Akins, Lindsey Jannenga, Jason KubicekGering: Brenda Borjas, Kane Mathson, Valentina Mejia, Jessica Mesa, Kerry Olson, Porter Robbins, Maia Swan, Gracie TrauernichtGordon: Kerry ButlerGothenburg: Ellarey Harm, Rylee Naprstek, Shania Wear, Alana WheatleyGrand Island: Emily Green, Jacqueline Juarez-MeierGrant: Triston HiteGreenwood: Faith BahmGretna: Kati DukatGurley: Cort RummelHarrison: Kailey Klein, Jaime TurbivilleHastings: Isabella PoppeHay Springs: November Diers, Molly Spicer, Samantha Toof, Shyanne WojcikHebron: Brenner McLaughlin, Kaisha McLaughlinHemingford: Yohan Bae, Danea HansonHenderson: Weston OhrtHershey: Eva McConnellHildreth: Tiffany CasperHoldrege: Alissabeth LatterHumboldt: Stephanie SchmitImperial: Denisse GuillenJohnstown: Kerstyn HeldKearney: Joshua Hamilton, Elle Hewitt, Logan O'Brien, Garrett O'Hare, Preston Pearson, Carmen ThrockmortonKenesaw: Joshua RandallKimball: Rylee McManisLexington: Nicole DonohueLincoln: Pablo Barta, Jillian Donovan, Shelby Harding, Caleb Olenick, Drew WhitneyLodgepole: Alecia FullerLoup City: Ella Jaixen, Hailey RademacherLynch: Brooklyn EckertMaxwell: Christina SmithMc Cool Junction: Jonathon Scheerer-HammMcCook: Kaylee Eckert, Shelbi Hazlitt, Danielle Mowry, Samantha Rodewald, Mindy Rogers, Harper Stevens, Ruby StoneMerriman: Anadia McKimmeyMinatare: Gisele Guerrero, Anna LoomisMinden: Abbigail Miller, Lindsey RehtusMitchell: Victor PalomoMorrill: Avree Blair, Jayden KannoNewman Grove: Brooke ForreNorfolk: Piper Craig, Teresa Goodrich, Brandon Kollars, Madelyn Pilakowski, Amanda Sellin, Samantha ZouchaNorth Platte: Madilyn Ayres, Lisa Bourne, Haley Empfield, Kaitlyn Evans, Elleigh Fisher, Skyler Geier-Dodson, Bridget Jacobs-Blythman, Coy McConnell, Makenna Modlin, Christine Ochsner, Juliana Ortiz, Kadence Roblee, Kari Stutzman, Shyanne Waltemath, Bryce WiedemanOdell: Haley BrandtOgallala: Dylon ZinkOmaha: Piper Hart, Rowyn WiltgenO’Neill: Mecal Cafaro, Mason Crumrine, Heather Heller, Mallorie ScottOrchard: Shayna StropeOrd: Devin Konicek, Grady Moudry, Shaylee ThomsenOsceola: Sydney RobertsPalisade: Shelby StraubPalmer: Morgan McClellanPapillion: Mary Frauendorfer, Dawn Hammock, Nicole Snavely, Breanna ZankPaxton: Noah Connick, Crystal Fox, Jayden Gartner, Sierra HicksPierce: Brynnlee MarksPlatte Center: Janae SlivaPlattsmouth: Tiffany McCarthyRandolph: Grace NordhuesRed Cloud: Ruthanna JohnsonRosalie: Kyle NovakScottsbluff: Irelynd Baldwin, Hans Bastron, Dyllan Coop, Paige Fisher, Taylor Gier, Ethan Gion, Adanijah Gonzales, Vanessa Gurrola, Katherine Hoevet, Caden Keller, Avery Kildow, Alyssa Liebich, Madison Miller, Madysen Powell, Ty Robles, Piper Ryschon, Isabella SotoScribner: Emily HoffSeward: Noah FieldsShelby: Rachel WackerSidney: Austin Glanz, Tiffany Hobson, Kathryn Kratzer, Madison Mashek, Lydia PetersSilver Creek: Shelby OsantowskiStapleton: Citori Kramer, Shelby Layher, Cydnie WilsonSterling: Angie MohrStuart: Jenny ForkerSuperior: Danielle KrajnikSutherland: Averie Harold, Luke Harper, Tessa MillerSutton: Andaira LandenbergerThedford: Brady DahlbergTilden: Jenna PoulsenTrenton: Emma Carfield, Carrie LoseyValentine: Lindsey Boes, Caitlynn Mack-Claypool, Ian Slama, Grant Springer, Marybelle WardVirginia: Caitlin ArmstrongWausa: Matthew RumseyWaverly: Jaelyn DickeWayne: Jill Lubke, Melissa WiigWellfleet: LeAnna CramerWest Point: Jaden SchultzYork: Keagyn Linden, Josephine Loosvelt, Amanda WilliamsCaliforniaChula Vista: Jaydin JacksonOroville: Brianna VollendroffSan Bernardino: Heather MooreTemecula: Jason Caleb PugalColoradoArvada: Sicily Frates, Reed HenkelAurora: Amya WinfreyBerthoud: Adam BeardByers: Marshall HackerCastle Pines: Rudy GishCastle Rock: Chase NelsonCentennial: Delaney FarnsworthCheraw: Jaedyn GronemeyerColorado Springs: Amber BolandConifer: Wyatt BlyCraig: Pepper RhyneDenver: Gretchen KallemeynErie: Alexandria RidenourFort Collins: Kenna WagnerFort Lupton: Alana DavisFort Morgan: Ashley Anderson, Kaitlyn BellHighlands Ranch: Brianna CordrayJohnstown: Izabella Miller, Gavin Molinar, Tucker Peterson, Cooper WaltonJulesburg: Peyton WorleyLakewood: Joseph LegolvanLongmont: Tiffani MeinParker: Katelyn FredricksonPueblo West: Isabella AdamsSteamboat Springs: Spring BurksWellington: Destrie GreimanWindsor: Aubree Heinsma, Macy Kleve, Allison SangerYuma: Olivia Cullen, Vashti WinterMontanaBillings: Justine WiedrickColumbus: Madison 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Groth, Isabella Laguna, Garet Schlabs, Isabella Thomas, Faith VanDeMarkChugwater: Brandi KlubekDouglas: Kristie Hayes, Anthony Henson, Jessica Johnson, Lyndsey Porter, Christopher Schoening, Amanda VanceEncampment: Koye GilbertEvanston: Meagan PextonGillette: Samantha Hill, Lena WalkerGlenrock: McKenzie WoodGuernsey: Caleb ChristensenLaramie: Cassandra WulffLingle: Christopher AndersonNewcastle: Aspen BloomPine Bluffs: Janie DavisPinedale: Maddox GehlhausenRanchester: Madeline HillRawlins: Eva NitschkeRiverton: McAye Fegler, Anna Hutchison, Ty Sheets, Heather WynneSheridan: Taylor MeinekeSundance: Keaton MillsTorrington: Bransen Bumguardner, Patricia Hankins-Masterson, Shaylee Jackson, Kalissa Reyes, Teryn StokesWright: Joslyn StrohscheinOther States and CountriesKaylea Smith, Palmer, AlaskaDonnie Domenico Arnone Jr, Wasilla, AlaskaMalia Hoagland, Wasilla, AlaskaAmericus McKenzie, Wasilla, AlaskaAlexi Anderson, Russellville, Ark.Abygail Roberts, Saint Marys, Ga.Jordyn Stokes, Estherville, IowaJosephine Holthus, Saint Charles, IowaAlexis Trousdale, Rockford, Ill.Keziah Toran, Springfield, Ill.Anastasia Freeman, Oberlin, Kan.Grady Fox, Severy, Kan.Gibson Beckler, Phillipsburg, Mo.Lauren Zimmerman, Reno, Nev.Rojay Ogilvie, Cincinnati, OhioKosiso Akwanamnye, Cleveland, OhioSydney Alles, West Valley City, UtahJanna Hewitt, Eston, Saskatchewan, CanadaBiruh Dinku, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaWongel Molla, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaHannah Rathmann, Augsburg, GermanyNorah Mbolyo, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the CongoQuincy Efeturi, Lagos, NigeriaJovan Jovanovic, Modrica, Bosnia and HerzegovinaJayda Rahming, Nassau, BahamasCamila Salvucci, Neuquen, ArgentinaLuka Djurovic, Podgorica, MontenegroNonoka Takeishi, Shizuoka, JapanJaemi Ladines, Taipei, TaiwanDEAN’S LISTNebraskaAinsworth: Cody Kronhofman, Baillee PalmerAlda: Hayden AtkinsAlliance: Kristen Baayen, Jackson Bailey, Jaelynne Clarke, Jennifer Foults, Nikki Haller, Bayleigh McCracken, Nolan Nagaki, Carlie SchneiderArnold: Keegan MehrensArthur: Hailey JagelerAtkinson: Rylee PoessneckerAuburn: Christina LillenasAyr: Dylan ThomBayard: Jordyn ReishBeatrice: Ashlynn AndersonBeaver City: Megan Kresin, Alivia TaylorBellevue: Nicholas CantuBrady: Vanessa HeinsBridgeport: Alexis Hill, Marsha KesselringBurwell: Carlie HelgothChadron: Jacee Bates, Kenli Boeselager, Lucas Camerlinck, Zane Cullers, Aidan Dressel, Naomie Elliott, Cody Kahl, Benjamin Karpf, Bailey Markowski, Ashlyn Morrison, Lauren Rasmussen, Caroline Reyes, Creighton Ryan, Uzziah Schwartz, Madison Swanson, Dylon Two Dogs, Courtney Williams, Emma WitteColumbus: Maclain ShevlinCozad: London CostanzaCrawford: Levi Van BeekCrofton: Josie AnthonyCulbertson: Lesa Tines, Joshua WilkinsonDavenport: Teghn HoinsDavid City: Kylie HiattDiller: Megan RobbinsDix: Brandon MendozaEllsworth: Abigail LoudenFremont: Ainsley Gerten, Makinsey ThomasGering: Mary Hausman, Emily Hinze, Sarah Martinez, Grady Robbins, Brayden RyanGothenburg: Sean Graff, Addisyn StreeterGrand Island: Bo Douglass, Camden WalkerGrant: Jolee Schoenholz, Emmerald Sims, Brock Tines, Mackayla WallinHarrison: Britney KleinHastings: Morgan LungrinHay Springs: Gage Mintken, Abigail Russell, Jaydlyn YouelHemingford: Boady Hunter, Casey MillerHenderson: Dawson OhrtHershey: Alex Brown, Mekenna FisherHickman: Brianna BarneyHoskins: Karen Kruger, Cynthia LangeKearney: Nicole Deterding, Tianna Martin, Audrey ReiterLakeside: Katie KleinLexington: Taya BerryLincoln: Emma Codr, Karly Codr, Jay Milburn, Brenda Morgan, Madison Nelsen, Sophia NguyenLodgepole: Johanna FrerichsMerna: Sid MillerMinatare: Kale Gibbons, Corina Meyers, Jackson Schwartz, Aaron SuhrMinden: Mary FriesMitchell: Kadin Perez, Shane Roberts, Frederick SauerMorrill: Elisha BarronNeligh: Sidney AndersonNorfolk: Alyssa Cuffe, Sydney Krause, Brett MoblyNorth Platte: Khamron Andrews, Laynee Boltz, Joshua Dorwart, Hailey Guthrie, Noah Oxford, Aspen Painter, Dakota WayOakland: Brandi Helzer, Kelsey LewisOgallala: Joshua Christensen, Karlielynne ErpOmaha: Jacqueline TebbenkampOrd: Lillee Alexander, Amber Whited, Makayla WrayOshkosh: Emily Levick, Jordon UnderwoodPonca: Taylor FleuryPotter: Kailey NicklasPurdum: Kyle CoxRepublican City: Karsten BradleyRushville: Kylie Coomes, Brooklyn MohrmanScottsbluff: Aubrey Barrett, Eisley Beeson, Sunny Edens, Delaney Haun, Justin Krasinski, Hunter Lund, Jaylee McCloud, Nalicia Petersen, Saul Reyes, Oscar Vazquez, Janine YagerSidney: Chance Carter, Kiley Collins, Seth Glass, Claire Jordan, Paige Pritchard, Trever Tarrell, Zoey WrightSilver Creek: Clay BrandenburgerSouth Sioux City: Jessica Nelson, Owen PaulsenSpringview: Hannah ThiemanStanton: Becker PohlmanSutherland: Bailey ZonaTekamah: Sarah BraniffThedford: Jemma DeNaeyerTrenton: Gavin LoseyValentine: Cinch Miller, Sheldyn Rodgers, Ethan SprengerWahoo: Sophia BrennanWausa: Sam AitkenWaverly: Madeline BrunssenWayne: Kelsey SchroederWolbach: Morgan RosanderYork: Ashleigh OhrtAlaskaWasilla: 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Elder: Riley Perry, Ashlynn WylieDe Smet: Griffin ClubbDeadwood: Drew JankeFaith: Jackson SchauerHighmore: Bailey DeanHill City: Karlee HoweHot Springs: Bridget RomeyKadoka: Jared NemecekLong Valley: Reece OhrtmanNisland: Caleb NadigNorris: Tyler RingOelrichs: Morgan SchommerParkston: Kiauna HargensPierre: Hattie BaldwinRapid City: Colton Doney, Trace Trainor, Cassandra WitteSturgis: Reese JacobsWhite River: Jaelyn GreenWhitewood: Carson BrandenbergYankton: Nevaeh LeonardWyomingBig Piney: Kelby StaleyBuffalo: Daphne LaVigneCasper: Amanda Hess, Ava Paddison, Margaret TeagueCheyenne: Ethan NorrisCody: Zelma RuddDayton: Colter HanftDouglas: Carson Hiser, Logan OrtegaDubois: Siler HessEvanston: Brenna FackrellFort Bridger: Dally LamoreauxGillette: Livia Castellanos, Chaylin Riley, Macie Selfors, Eduardo UlloaGlendo: Rachel HillLaGrange: Rylee WardLaramie: Trent Clark, Evan CrumLingle: Dally WilkinsLovell: Mikkel McintoshLusk: David WestNewcastle: Emma Haugen, Michelle Lewis, Angelyse PerezPine Bluffs: James MohrenPowell: Holly PittmanRock Springs: Halle KauchichSaratoga: Kristie Jordan, Quade JordanSheridan: Aspen Newman, Taylor StrandlienTorrington: Shelby Ekwall, Angie Logsdon, Alexander McIntyreVeteran: Kathleen JohnsonWheatland: Laynie Goertz, Travis WittOther States and CountriesJeffrey Luke Goins II, Queen Creek, Ariz.Zach Smith, Coconut Creek, Fla.Dominic Joyce, North Port, Fla.Ferzana Abdella, Lawrenceville, Ga.Hassina Abdella, Lawrenceville, Ga.Ella Moser, Hiawatha, IowaTayten Gillette, Gooding, IdahoCosette Desrosiers, Nampa, IdahoParker Schwarting, Joliet, Ill.Benjamin Reyes, Newton, Kan.Marcus Mader, Broadus, Mont.Evelyn Rose-Morrison Stewart-Old Coyote, Garryowen, Mont.Lisa Nadeau, Warwick, R.I.Tamara Kinsman, Perkinsville, Vt.Daimien Pedersen, Olds, Alberta, CanadaNathan Tefera, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaMarco Moreau, Chateau Larcher, FranceAlusine Samura, Freetown, Sierra LeoneKlara Kleinig, Leipzig, GermanyKonoha Isa, Nagaoka, JapanBianca Bindzus, Roedovre, DenmarkJoshua St Jean, Roseau, DominicaDiego Perez, Santander, Spain

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Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board (STB) requesting approval to combine the two railroads. The companies entered into a merger agreement on July 29, 2025, to create America’s first transcontinental railroad.

Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) and Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) today filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board (STB) requesting approval to combine the two railroads. The companies entered into a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/press-releases/growth/norfolk-southern-transcontinental-nr-250729" target="_blank">merger agreement</a>&nbsp;on July 29, 2025, to create&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up-nstranscontinental.com/" target="_blank">America’s first transcontinental railroad</a>.

The nearly 7,000-page application provides comprehensive and compelling new details on how the end-to-end combination will enhance competition and deliver broad public benefits. The application includes a record-breaking 2,000 letters of support from stakeholders, joining shareholders at both companies who cast votes that were 99% in favor of the merger.

America’s first transcontinental railroad will:

“We look forward to working with the Surface Transportation Board as it reviews our historic application to create America’s first transcontinental railroad,” said Union Pacific CEO&nbsp;Jim Vena. “As time and technology continue to transform how freight is delivered, our industry must keep pace and move forward, reaching underserved markets with new rail solutions and strengthening the U.S. supply chain.&nbsp;Customers deserve stronger, more connected freight rail, and our merger will make that happen.”

“This combination will bring together Union Pacific’s expansive Western reach and Norfolk Southern’s unparalleled access to Eastern manufacturing and population centers in an end-to-end combination,” said Norfolk Southern President and CEO&nbsp;Mark George. “It will create a cohesive freight rail solution with 50,000 route miles that connect 43 states and more than 100 ports.”

Enhanced railroad competition.&nbsp;The Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern combination is a classic end-to-end merger. Today, each railroad serves a distinct geographic region with complementary networks, customers and markets. Connecting the two systems will create a transcontinental network that bridges the gap between East and West, allowing freight to bypass congested interchanges and take the fastest and most efficient, price-competitive route. The result: substantial public benefits like expanded affordability; competitive options for customers in virtually every major corridor; and a stronger, more efficient national rail system. The combined network will move freight more efficiently, eliminating an estimated 2,400 rail car and container handlings and 60,000 car-miles each day. Faster, more reliable single-line rail service enhances competition – when it’s available, the share of freight traveling by rail versus the highway is roughly two to three times greater than interline service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Less congestion and wear on America’s roadways.&nbsp;A seamless transcontinental railroad will compete more aggressively with long-haul trucking, shifting an estimated 2 million truckloads of freight from road to rail annually. The result will be reduced congestion, safer roads and less wear on taxpayer-funded roads.

An economic boost for America’s heartland.&nbsp;The Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern combination will remove the artificial barrier that divides America’s rail system between East and West, getting freight moving in the Watershed region. This previously underserved rail market – where trucking was often the only option because crossing the divide made rail too expensive and complicated due to handoffs between railroads – will have access to single-line manifest service for the first time. Leading industry advisor Oliver Wyman estimates that 105,000 carloads of merchandise traffic will convert from road to rail when single-line service is available to the Watershed markets. Providing domestic shippers a cheaper alternative to truck will make them more competitive, which strengthens the entire U.S. economy.

More direct and reliable access to global markets.&nbsp;A transcontinental railroad will provide efficient, flexible and reliable single-line access to more than 100 ports connecting to global markets and 10 international gateways to markets in Canada and Mexico.&nbsp;

Reduced emissions.&nbsp;Rail is already the most sustainable way to move freight over ground, according to the Association of American Railroads, with roughly 75% less carbon emissions than trucks. The merger will further reduce emissions by removing more trucks from the road, running trains more efficiently, investing in cleaner and more efficient technologies, and providing customers with better tools to achieve their own sustainability goals.&nbsp;

Dedicated support for passenger rail.&nbsp;Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern will maintain dedicated systems to support passenger rail. A route-by-route analysis of projected volume growth verified sufficient capacity to continue fulfilling all service obligations to Amtrak and commuter rail agencies.&nbsp;

Faster, more efficient service.&nbsp;Integrating Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern into one network will transform 10,000 existing lanes from interline service – which requires time-consuming handoffs between railroads – into faster, more efficient single-line service. It also will create an additional 84,000 county-to-county lanes where shippers are moving freight by road that could – for the first time – move by single-line rail service.

Expanded service offerings.&nbsp;As part of its optimized operating plan, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern will improve service without overhauling existing networks. The combined railroad anticipates adding several routes, including two new daily intermodal train pairs connecting the East and the West with more direct service – reducing estimated transit times from Southern California to the Ohio Valley and Northeast by up to 20 hours and from Southern California to the Southeast by more than two days.&nbsp;The combined railroad also will introduce six new manifest trains to bridge the East-West divide more efficiently, reducing over 600 daily car handlings. To meet expected intermodal growth, the combined company plans to introduce a total of six premium intermodal lanes operating seven days a week.

Improved customer asset utilization. Customers who own rail cars will see improved productive use of their assets. With faster, more predictable service, they can turn cars more quickly, minimize idle time and lower equipment costs.

Simplified customer experience backed by innovative technology.&nbsp;A unified digital experience will allow shippers to integrate scheduling, tracking and shipment visibility.&nbsp;Customers will have one commercial team, one contract, one invoice and one accountable partner for their entire rail journey.&nbsp;

Streamlined pricing for interline moves.&nbsp;Committed Gateway Pricing will further enhance competition by streamlining pricing of interline moves for thousands of customer locations that otherwise may not directly benefit from the merger.&nbsp;

Efficient dispute resolution.&nbsp;As an added protection for customers, Union Pacific will voluntarily create an alternative dispute resolution program to efficiently address certain claims regarding merger-related service issues.

Growth for short lines. As Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern create new single-line routes, open competitive markets and streamline service, short lines are positioned to capture new volumes flowing directly onto their rails.

Safety remains the No. 1 priority.&nbsp;A safety integration plan was created working with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and submitted to the STB. The plan outlines how the new company will combine best practices from each railroad to further enhance the safety benefits for all. For example, comparing the first three quarters of 2023 to the same period in 2025, Union Pacific improved its personal injury rate by 41% and now leads the industry in employee safety. Norfolk Southern’s advanced technologies and industry-leading rail safety practices have improved its FRA accident rate by 45% over the same period.

Protection for all union jobs.&nbsp;Railroading offers some of the best-paid industrial careers in America. Average compensation including benefits is $160,000, which is roughly 40% above the national industrial average.&nbsp;<a></a>Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern expect to add approximately 900 net new union jobs by the third year following the merger to handle expected volume growth. Along with pledging that every employee with a union job at the time of the merger will continue to have one, Union Pacific has formalized groundbreaking jobs-for-life agreements with multiple unions. Any merger-related union job efficiencies will be achieved solely through attrition.

The Most Thoroughly Planned Merger in Railroad History

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are well-run, successful railroads coming together from positions of strength. They have the benefit of state-of-the-art transportation systems and anticipate investing an estimated $2.1 billion of incremental capital to integrate the two companies and deliver benefits to customers. The combined company also expects $133 million in annual capital synergies by leveraging the combined network and fleet more efficiently. Both railroads have a recent history of successfully managing large, complex system changes and will bring that proven record of precision integration to the merger’s implementation.

The transaction remains subject to STB review and approval within its statutory timeline and will be subject to continuing STB oversight post-closure. The Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern application to the STB is available for public review on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stb.gov/" target="_blank">its website</a>. The statements contained herein are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full application to the STB.

The two companies expect the transaction to be completed by early 2027. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up-nstranscontinental.com/" target="_blank">AmericasGreatConnection.com</a>.&nbsp;

For Immediate Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560465551027.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board (STB) requesting approval to combine the two railroads. The companies entered into a merger agreement on July 29, 2025, to create America’s first transcontinental railroad.Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) and Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) today filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board (STB) requesting approval to combine the two railroads. The companies entered into a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/press-releases/growth/norfolk-southern-transcontinental-nr-250729" target="_blank">merger agreement</a>&nbsp;on July 29, 2025, to create&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up-nstranscontinental.com/" target="_blank">America’s first transcontinental railroad</a>.The nearly 7,000-page application provides comprehensive and compelling new details on how the end-to-end combination will enhance competition and deliver broad public benefits. The application includes a record-breaking 2,000 letters of support from stakeholders, joining shareholders at both companies who cast votes that were 99% in favor of the merger.America’s first transcontinental railroad will:<ul>
 <li>Connect the United States from coast to coast, transforming 10,000 existing lanes from interline service into faster, more efficient single-line service – eliminating time-consuming handoffs between railroads.</li><li>Move freight more efficiently, eliminating an estimated 2,400 rail car and container handlings and 60,000 car-miles each day.</li><li>Retain competitive shipping alternatives for the three customer locations out of more than 20,000 that are served by Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern but no other carrier.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Compete more effectively with long-haul trucking, converting an estimated 2 million truckloads of freight from road to rail annually.</li><li><a href="https://www.up.com/news/people/railroading-secure-jobs-251216" target="_blank">Protect all union jobs</a>&nbsp;– every employee with a union job at the time of the merger will continue to have one, and growth of the combined company is expected to create about 900 net new union jobs by the third year following the merger.</li><li>Further enhance competition by voluntarily creating Committed Gateway Pricing, streamlining pricing of interline moves for thousands of customer locations that otherwise may not directly benefit from the merger.</li><li>Keep open all existing gateways for eligible traffic on commercially reasonable terms.</li><li>Provide customers with a unified digital experience, with one accountable partner for their entire rail journey.</li><li>Invest an estimated $2.1 billion of incremental capital to support revenue and cost synergies, and expect $133 million in annual capital synergies.</li>
 </ul>“We look forward to working with the Surface Transportation Board as it reviews our historic application to create America’s first transcontinental railroad,” said Union Pacific CEO&nbsp;Jim Vena. “As time and technology continue to transform how freight is delivered, our industry must keep pace and move forward, reaching underserved markets with new rail solutions and strengthening the U.S. supply chain.&nbsp;Customers deserve stronger, more connected freight rail, and our merger will make that happen.”“This combination will bring together Union Pacific’s expansive Western reach and Norfolk Southern’s unparalleled access to Eastern manufacturing and population centers in an end-to-end combination,” said Norfolk Southern President and CEO&nbsp;Mark George. “It will create a cohesive freight rail solution with 50,000 route miles that connect 43 states and more than 100 ports.”<h2>Benefits for America</h2>Enhanced railroad competition.&nbsp;The Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern combination is a classic end-to-end merger. Today, each railroad serves a distinct geographic region with complementary networks, customers and markets. Connecting the two systems will create a transcontinental network that bridges the gap between East and West, allowing freight to bypass congested interchanges and take the fastest and most efficient, price-competitive route. The result: substantial public benefits like expanded affordability; competitive options for customers in virtually every major corridor; and a stronger, more efficient national rail system. The combined network will move freight more efficiently, eliminating an estimated 2,400 rail car and container handlings and 60,000 car-miles each day. Faster, more reliable single-line rail service enhances competition – when it’s available, the share of freight traveling by rail versus the highway is roughly two to three times greater than interline service.&nbsp;&nbsp;Less congestion and wear on America’s roadways.&nbsp;A seamless transcontinental railroad will compete more aggressively with long-haul trucking, shifting an estimated 2 million truckloads of freight from road to rail annually. The result will be reduced congestion, safer roads and less wear on taxpayer-funded roads.An economic boost for America’s heartland.&nbsp;The Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern combination will remove the artificial barrier that divides America’s rail system between East and West, getting freight moving in the Watershed region. This previously underserved rail market – where trucking was often the only option because crossing the divide made rail too expensive and complicated due to handoffs between railroads – will have access to single-line manifest service for the first time. Leading industry advisor Oliver Wyman estimates that 105,000 carloads of merchandise traffic will convert from road to rail when single-line service is available to the Watershed markets. Providing domestic shippers a cheaper alternative to truck will make them more competitive, which strengthens the entire U.S. economy.More direct and reliable access to global markets.&nbsp;A transcontinental railroad will provide efficient, flexible and reliable single-line access to more than 100 ports connecting to global markets and 10 international gateways to markets in Canada and Mexico.&nbsp;Reduced emissions.&nbsp;Rail is already the most sustainable way to move freight over ground, according to the Association of American Railroads, with roughly 75% less carbon emissions than trucks. The merger will further reduce emissions by removing more trucks from the road, running trains more efficiently, investing in cleaner and more efficient technologies, and providing customers with better tools to achieve their own sustainability goals.&nbsp;Dedicated support for passenger rail.&nbsp;Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern will maintain dedicated systems to support passenger rail. A route-by-route analysis of projected volume growth verified sufficient capacity to continue fulfilling all service obligations to Amtrak and commuter rail agencies.&nbsp;<h2>Benefits for Customers</h2>Faster, more efficient service.&nbsp;Integrating Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern into one network will transform 10,000 existing lanes from interline service – which requires time-consuming handoffs between railroads – into faster, more efficient single-line service. It also will create an additional 84,000 county-to-county lanes where shippers are moving freight by road that could – for the first time – move by single-line rail service.Expanded service offerings.&nbsp;As part of its optimized operating plan, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern will improve service without overhauling existing networks. The combined railroad anticipates adding several routes, including two new daily intermodal train pairs connecting the East and the West with more direct service – reducing estimated transit times from Southern California to the Ohio Valley and Northeast by up to 20 hours and from Southern California to the Southeast by more than two days.&nbsp;The combined railroad also will introduce six new manifest trains to bridge the East-West divide more efficiently, reducing over 600 daily car handlings. To meet expected intermodal growth, the combined company plans to introduce a total of six premium intermodal lanes operating seven days a week.Improved customer asset utilization. Customers who own rail cars will see improved productive use of their assets. With faster, more predictable service, they can turn cars more quickly, minimize idle time and lower equipment costs.Simplified customer experience backed by innovative technology.&nbsp;A unified digital experience will allow shippers to integrate scheduling, tracking and shipment visibility.&nbsp;Customers will have one commercial team, one contract, one invoice and one accountable partner for their entire rail journey.&nbsp;Streamlined pricing for interline moves.&nbsp;Committed Gateway Pricing will further enhance competition by streamlining pricing of interline moves for thousands of customer locations that otherwise may not directly benefit from the merger.&nbsp;Efficient dispute resolution.&nbsp;As an added protection for customers, Union Pacific will voluntarily create an alternative dispute resolution program to efficiently address certain claims regarding merger-related service issues.Growth for short lines. As Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern create new single-line routes, open competitive markets and streamline service, short lines are positioned to capture new volumes flowing directly onto their rails.<h2>Benefits for Safety</h2>Safety remains the No. 1 priority.&nbsp;A safety integration plan was created working with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and submitted to the STB. The plan outlines how the new company will combine best practices from each railroad to further enhance the safety benefits for all. For example, comparing the first three quarters of 2023 to the same period in 2025, Union Pacific improved its personal injury rate by 41% and now leads the industry in employee safety. Norfolk Southern’s advanced technologies and industry-leading rail safety practices have improved its FRA accident rate by 45% over the same period.<h2>Benefits for Railroad Employees</h2>Protection for all union jobs.&nbsp;Railroading offers some of the best-paid industrial careers in America. Average compensation including benefits is $160,000, which is roughly 40% above the national industrial average.&nbsp;<a></a>Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern expect to add approximately 900 net new union jobs by the third year following the merger to handle expected volume growth. Along with pledging that every employee with a union job at the time of the merger will continue to have one, Union Pacific has formalized groundbreaking jobs-for-life agreements with multiple unions. Any merger-related union job efficiencies will be achieved solely through attrition.<h2>The Most Thoroughly Planned Merger in Railroad History</h2>Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are well-run, successful railroads coming together from positions of strength. They have the benefit of state-of-the-art transportation systems and anticipate investing an estimated $2.1 billion of incremental capital to integrate the two companies and deliver benefits to customers. The combined company also expects $133 million in annual capital synergies by leveraging the combined network and fleet more efficiently. Both railroads have a recent history of successfully managing large, complex system changes and will bring that proven record of precision integration to the merger’s implementation.The transaction remains subject to STB review and approval within its statutory timeline and will be subject to continuing STB oversight post-closure. The Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern application to the STB is available for public review on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stb.gov/" target="_blank">its website</a>. The statements contained herein are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full application to the STB.The two companies expect the transaction to be completed by early 2027. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up-nstranscontinental.com/" target="_blank">AmericasGreatConnection.com</a>.&nbsp;

UP and NS STB Merger Application Details Enhancements to Competition and Public Benefits

ALLIANCE, Neb. - Public art has brightened the community from creative crosswalks to alley murals throughout Alliance. Troop 216 scout Dracen Buschow coordinated the most recent effort for his Eagle Scout project with a tribute to the men and women who have served our country in the military.

Several weeks ago I dropped my son off to help paint frames at the VFW. When I picked him up, Dracen and his parents, Lisa and Chad, showed me the paintings and described how local artists made the vision come alive.

“I was creating a mural to put up at the Alliance VFW to honor the veterans of Box Butte County,” Dracen explained, adding the mural was going to consist of branches of the service. Although a mural honoring veterans was Dracen’s original idea, there were a few twists and turns on the way there. “I jumped around from idea to idea,” he said. “The original idea was to do different wars, so I decided to do branches of service so I’d have a broader topic that would connect to everyone.”

Scouts always tap sometimes latent leadership skills when completing an Eagle project. Dracen’s biggest challenge was commissioning artists that would donate their time to each create a unique vision of the scenes he had in mind. He presented the artists with 4x4 sheets of prime plywood and donated art supplies with which to work.

The project and its unveiling “went over well. (People) thought it was for auction – it looked that good,” Dracen said. Marine veterans saw their painting at the USMC birthday dinner Nov. 10. The rest of the paintings were presented the next day at the Veterans Day dinner.

“I gave recognition for the artists who could make it, so they could see the finished project,” Dracen said.

Although the paintings would honor local veterans wherever they are displayed, Dracen wanted to share them with the public and will place them outside at the VFW on Flack Avenue. Hanging them on the south fence and finishing the paperwork will complete the project.

“(My favorite) would probably be the final part when I got to see them for the first time – they were all jaw dropping,” Dracen said, while the most challenging was “finding the volunteers to pull it off.”

By John Weare, Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766166407381.jpeg" alt="Troop 216 scout Dracen Buschow stands with the artists who depicted branches of the military in paintings for his Eagle Scout project." />
 <figcaption>Troop 216 scout Dracen Buschow stands with the artists who depicted branches of the military in paintings for his Eagle Scout project.</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. - Public art has brightened the community from creative crosswalks to alley murals throughout Alliance. Troop 216 scout Dracen Buschow coordinated the most recent effort for his Eagle Scout project with a tribute to the men and women who have served our country in the military.Several weeks ago I dropped my son off to help paint frames at the VFW. When I picked him up, Dracen and his parents, Lisa and Chad, showed me the paintings and described how local artists made the vision come alive.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766166459949.jpeg" alt="courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)" />
 <figcaption>courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)</figcaption>
 </figure>“I was creating a mural to put up at the Alliance VFW to honor the veterans of Box Butte County,” Dracen explained, adding the mural was going to consist of branches of the service. Although a mural honoring veterans was Dracen’s original idea, there were a few twists and turns on the way there. “I jumped around from idea to idea,” he said. “The original idea was to do different wars, so I decided to do branches of service so I’d have a broader topic that would connect to everyone.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766166487152.jpeg" alt="courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)" />
 <figcaption>courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)</figcaption>
 </figure>Scouts always tap sometimes latent leadership skills when completing an Eagle project. Dracen’s biggest challenge was commissioning artists that would donate their time to each create a unique vision of the scenes he had in mind. He presented the artists with 4x4 sheets of prime plywood and donated art supplies with which to work.The project and its unveiling “went over well. (People) thought it was for auction – it looked that good,” Dracen said. Marine veterans saw their painting at the USMC birthday dinner Nov. 10. The rest of the paintings were presented the next day at the Veterans Day dinner.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766166516253.jpeg" alt="courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)" />
 <figcaption>courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)</figcaption>
 </figure>“I gave recognition for the artists who could make it, so they could see the finished project,” Dracen said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766166540318.jpeg" alt="courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)" />
 <figcaption>courtesy John Weare (Keep Alliance Beautiful)</figcaption>
 </figure>Although the paintings would honor local veterans wherever they are displayed, Dracen wanted to share them with the public and will place them outside at the VFW on Flack Avenue. Hanging them on the south fence and finishing the paperwork will complete the project.“(My favorite) would probably be the final part when I got to see them for the first time – they were all jaw dropping,” Dracen said, while the most challenging was “finding the volunteers to pull it off.”

COLUMN: Eagle Projects: Dracen Buschow

Details on First Day Hike at Chadron State Park

ALLIANCE, Neb.&nbsp;- The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce the addition of its newest officer, Chris Laake, to the department’s growing team of dedicated professionals.

Yesterday, Officer Laake graduated from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center after completing a rigorous 16-week academy program. His training covered a wide range of critical law enforcement skills, including constitutional law, defensive tactics, crisis intervention, firearms proficiency and community-centered policing.

Officer Laake will now begin the next phase of his onboarding process; 16 weeks of field training with the Alliance Police Department. During this period, he will work alongside experienced field training officers, applying his academy knowledge to real-world policing and demonstrating the proficiency required to serve independently. Upon successful completion, Officer Laake will be released as a solo patrol officer.

“We are proud to welcome Chris to the Alliance Police Department family,” said Chief David Leavitt. “His commitment to public service, along with the training he has completed, will be a tremendous asset to our department and to the citizens we serve.”

The Alliance Police Department congratulates Officer Laake on his accomplishments and looks forward to the positive impact he will have on the community.

By Alliance Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766167131160.jpeg" alt="Officer Laake Graduation (courtesy Alliance Police Department)" />
 <figcaption>Officer Laake Graduation (courtesy Alliance Police Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb.&nbsp;- The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce the addition of its newest officer, Chris Laake, to the department’s growing team of dedicated professionals.Yesterday, Officer Laake graduated from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center after completing a rigorous 16-week academy program. His training covered a wide range of critical law enforcement skills, including constitutional law, defensive tactics, crisis intervention, firearms proficiency and community-centered policing.Officer Laake will now begin the next phase of his onboarding process; 16 weeks of field training with the Alliance Police Department. During this period, he will work alongside experienced field training officers, applying his academy knowledge to real-world policing and demonstrating the proficiency required to serve independently. Upon successful completion, Officer Laake will be released as a solo patrol officer.“We are proud to welcome Chris to the Alliance Police Department family,” said Chief David Leavitt. “His commitment to public service, along with the training he has completed, will be a tremendous asset to our department and to the citizens we serve.”The Alliance Police Department congratulates Officer Laake on his accomplishments and looks forward to the positive impact he will have on the community.

Alliance Police Department Welcomes New Officer Chris Laake

Box Butte County Meeting Agenda, Dec. 22

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Governor Jim Pillen announced further progress in assisting&nbsp; &nbsp;workers impacted by the upcoming Tyson meat processing plant closure in Lexington. Altogether, over 1,600 individuals attended Rapid Response layoff services events and job fairs at the Dawson County Fairgrounds and Lexington Middle School over the last two weeks. These efforts were designed to provide timely information, connect displaced workers with employment opportunities, and ensure access to workforce and supportive services.&nbsp; Nearly 600 individuals have registered in the Department of Labor’s employment website,&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.

“Lexington has been and will continue to be an all-American community. We want to make sure of that. The state is engaging to the greatest extent possible to help people meet immediate needs and identify employment opportunities,” said Gov. Pillen.

Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber has personally attended several of the scheduled Rapid Response and job fairs hosted by the department. She said the participation by Tyson’s workforce has been encouraging.

“They are demonstrating Nebraska’s strong work ethic and are taking the steps necessary to transfer their skills within our state,” said Commissioner Thurber. “This response has demonstrated the value of aligning Rapid Response layoff services, job fairs, and registration support into a coordinated, sustained effort that will hopefully prove beneficial to the workers and their families.”

State agencies are collaborating with local partners, employers, community organizations, and volunteers. Participants in recent events received information on:

Erick Carrillo, the Department of Labor’s director of reemployment services, said it has been heartening to see various agencies and individuals provide a path forward to workers and their families.  “What stands out to me is that the state agencies are giving people options,” Carrillo said.  “We are helping people identify ways that they can make the most of this situation and we are partnering with them through the entire process, which looks different for each affected worker.”

Over 150 employers have taken part in the response efforts through participation in job fairs and other outreach efforts to the Tyson workforce.&nbsp; Employers are encouraged to post their jobs at&nbsp;<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/default.aspx" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.

Participating employers and a summary of job openings are listed on the Department of Economic Development’s Lexington resources web page,&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/Lexington/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov/Lexington</a>. The page also includes information about employment and community resources for individuals and families impacted by the plant closure.

A hotline is now also available for Lexington workers needing assistance with programs and services available through Health and Human Services or the Department of Labor.   Language assistance is available.

“My team is working to eliminate barriers to accessing important resources,” added Gov. Pillen. “The hotline aims to streamline access for individuals with questions regarding programs that may benefit them most during this time.”

The phone number for assistance is 308-407-1517.

Listed below are upcoming dates and events that Tyson employees can participate in, arranged through the Department of Labor. All will be held at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. The NEworks sessions are designed to provide assistance with registering in&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>, where workers can find employment and file for unemployment benefits when their job ends.

Dec. 29 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session)

Jan. 8 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)

Jan. 9 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)

Jan. 15 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)

Jan. 16 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737061288463.jpeg" alt=" Gov. Jim Pillen talks with reporters after his annual State of the State speech to the Nebraska Legislature. Jan. 15, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Jim Pillen talks with reporters after his annual State of the State speech to the Nebraska Legislature. Jan. 15, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Governor Jim Pillen announced further progress in assisting&nbsp; &nbsp;workers impacted by the upcoming Tyson meat processing plant closure in Lexington. Altogether, over 1,600 individuals attended Rapid Response layoff services events and job fairs at the Dawson County Fairgrounds and Lexington Middle School over the last two weeks. These efforts were designed to provide timely information, connect displaced workers with employment opportunities, and ensure access to workforce and supportive services.&nbsp; Nearly 600 individuals have registered in the Department of Labor’s employment website,&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.“Lexington has been and will continue to be an all-American community. We want to make sure of that. The state is engaging to the greatest extent possible to help people meet immediate needs and identify employment opportunities,” said Gov. Pillen.Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber has personally attended several of the scheduled Rapid Response and job fairs hosted by the department. She said the participation by Tyson’s workforce has been encouraging.“They are demonstrating Nebraska’s strong work ethic and are taking the steps necessary to transfer their skills within our state,” said Commissioner Thurber. “This response has demonstrated the value of aligning Rapid Response layoff services, job fairs, and registration support into a coordinated, sustained effort that will hopefully prove beneficial to the workers and their families.”State agencies are collaborating with local partners, employers, community organizations, and volunteers. Participants in recent events received information on:<ul>
 <li>Workforce programs and job search services</li><li>Unemployment Insurance</li><li>Training and retraining opportunities</li><li>Community and human services including SNAP, SNAP E&amp;T, Medicaid, Employment First and other programs</li>
 </ul>Erick Carrillo, the Department of Labor’s director of reemployment services, said it has been heartening to see various agencies and individuals provide a path forward to workers and their families. “What stands out to me is that the state agencies are giving people options,” Carrillo said. “We are helping people identify ways that they can make the most of this situation and we are partnering with them through the entire process, which looks different for each affected worker.”Over 150 employers have taken part in the response efforts through participation in job fairs and other outreach efforts to the Tyson workforce.&nbsp; Employers are encouraged to post their jobs at&nbsp;<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/default.aspx" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.Participating employers and a summary of job openings are listed on the Department of Economic Development’s Lexington resources web page,&nbsp;<a href="https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/Lexington/" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov/Lexington</a>. The page also includes information about employment and community resources for individuals and families impacted by the plant closure.A hotline is now also available for Lexington workers needing assistance with programs and services available through Health and Human Services or the Department of Labor. Language assistance is available.“My team is working to eliminate barriers to accessing important resources,” added Gov. Pillen. “The hotline aims to streamline access for individuals with questions regarding programs that may benefit them most during this time.”The phone number for assistance is 308-407-1517.Listed below are upcoming dates and events that Tyson employees can participate in, arranged through the Department of Labor. All will be held at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. The NEworks sessions are designed to provide assistance with registering in&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>, where workers can find employment and file for unemployment benefits when their job ends.Dec. 29 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session)Jan. 8 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)Jan. 9 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)Jan. 15 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)Jan. 16 - 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (NEworks Session), 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Job Fair)

Gov. Pillen Provides Progress Update on Tyson Support Services, Announces Hotline and Assistance Dates

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Strong winds swept across western and north-central Nebraska on December 17 and 18, with several locations reporting gusts strong enough to reach hurricane force, according to the National Weather Service in North Platte.

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766160353503.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Strong winds swept across western and north-central Nebraska on December 17 and 18, with several locations reporting gusts strong enough to reach hurricane force, according to the National Weather Service in North Platte.The strongest reported wind gust was 80 miles per hour, recorded 14 miles north of Bingham at 8 a.m. on December 18, based on Mesonet data. Another Mesonet site three miles east-southeast of Tryon reported a 77 mph gust at the same time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766160477196.png" alt="Parkade Plaza Christmas Tree in North Platte, downed in road during high winds early morning of December 18, 2025. (Courtesy Nikki Rawn)" />
 <figcaption>Parkade Plaza Christmas Tree in North Platte, downed in road during high winds early morning of December 18, 2025. (Courtesy Nikki Rawn)</figcaption>
 </figure>Airports across the region also recorded extreme winds. Valentine Airport measured a 76 mph gust at 8:19 p.m. on December 17, while Broken Bow Airport reported gusts as high as 72 mph on the morning of December 18. North Platte Regional Airport recorded a 71 mph gust at 7:43 a.m. that day.Multiple locations throughout the Sandhills and southwest Nebraska saw gusts exceeding 70 mph, including areas near Rushville, Whitman, Crescent Lake, Bassett, Cody, Antioch, Merriman, Eli, Brownlee, Kingsley Dam, Ogallala, Grant, Imperial, and Ainsworth.Wind gusts of 60 mph or greater were widespread, with dozens of observations reported by Mesonet stations, airport weather sensors, trained spotters, and automated weather observing systems. The strongest winds were generally observed late on December 17 and during the early to mid-morning hours of December 18.The National Weather Service noted that wind observations are collected from a variety of sources with different equipment and exposure levels, and not all reported data are considered official. Officials thanked volunteer weather observers for their contributions.No immediate damage totals were included with the report, but winds of this magnitude are capable of causing power outages, downed trees, and travel disruptions, particularly for high-profile vehicles.

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