By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

LINCOLN COUNTY — Early Sunday morning, a vehicle accident near the Lake Maloney outlet resulted in a fatality.

At approximately 2:21 a.m. on November 16, Lincoln County Deputies were dispatched to a report of a vehicle on fire along North Lake Road. According to initial reports, it appeared the vehicle had struck a tree and was fully engulfed in flames.

Deputies, along with the North Platte Fire Department, arrived to find the vehicle completely ablaze. After extinguishing the fire, emergency responders discovered the driver, who was the lone occupant, still inside the vehicle.

Preliminary evidence indicates the vehicle was traveling westbound on North Lake Road, approaching the east end of the dam near the Anderson Subdivision, when it left the roadway, struck a tree, and caught fire.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Investigators were on the scene and are conducting a detailed investigation, including the identification of the driver.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family of the victim during this difficult time.

Vehicle Fire Near Lake Maloney Claims Life

Listen to the full interview with Lenny Hassel on our Kubota Podcast Page.&nbsp;

North Platte, Neb. - North Platte families, get ready to lace up your sneakers! The North Platte Elks Lodge is hosting its annual Hoop Shoot contest, giving local kids a chance to show off their basketball skills in a fun and friendly competition.

Lenny Hassel of the Elks Lodge shared the details on the upcoming event. The Hoop Shoot is a free throw contest open to students ages 8 to 13, with age determined as of April 1, 2026. Participants will shoot 25 free throws each, and both the winner and runner-up in each division will receive a medal.

The contest will be held Sunday, December 7, at Adams Middle School Gym, 1200 McDonald Rd. Girls will take the court at 1:00 PM, followed by the boys at 2:00 PM. Hassel explained that the event typically lasts about an hour per division but could run slightly longer if more kids show up.

Hassel emphasized the Elks Lodge’s commitment to youth programs, saying the contest is free to ensure all children can participate. 

“We’ve been doing this for over 40 years,” he said. “The Elks Lodge has various youth programs, from scholarships to dictionary distributions for third graders in Lincoln County. We want to get kids involved and active.”

Nationwide, over 2.5 million students participate in Hoop Shoot contests every year. Locally, last year’s event welcomed roughly 30 to 35 children, though Hassel hopes to see even more this year. With multiple baskets set up, organizers are ready to accommodate as many participants as possible.

No pre-registration is required—kids can simply show up and sign in, making it easy for families to join. Every participant will leave with a memorable experience, and winners will receive recognition for their efforts.

The North Platte Elks Lodge Hoop Shoot hopes to keep kids active, having fun, and wants to celebrate community spirit heading into the holiday season.

🎙️North Platte Kids Invited to Free Annual Elks Lodge Hoop Shoot on December 7

North Platte, Neb. - North Platte High School’s Bulldog Production students had a week to remember when alumnus Chris Gorman, now Senior Vice President at Hurrdat Media, returned to campus for workshops, classroom sessions, and hands-on experiences.

Gorman, who grew up in North Platte and graduated from NPHS before earning his degree in Organizational Communication and Marketing from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, spent two full days and an evening sharing his insights and experience with students.

From the moment he walked in, his energy and passion were evident. He worked with the podcasting team, spoke with digital media students about careers in content creation, and even visited the entrepreneurship class to explain how creativity and business intersect. During the last home football game, he joined the live sports production crew, helping students capture and produce content in real time.

“He talked to all those sections about careers and opportunities in digital media,” said Phil Willey, digital media instructor. “And he was really motivational too. He talked about how kids didn't have to be in like a little box… just like finding things that they're interested in,” adding that Gorman shared how his own career path was shaped by following his passions.

Gorman encouraged students to take risks and speak their ideas aloud. “Now is the time to go do the crazy thing or to like say your dream out loud,” he told them. He shared the story of a podcaster at Hurrdat who launched a top-ranked show simply by voicing an idea that seemed impossible. “She has sponsors, she’s on her first year of shows that she’s done, she’s getting recognized like out in the wild,” he said.

The visit offered more than inspiration. Willey highlighted how Gorman’s guidance during the football game production gave students practical skills in capturing and repurposing content. 

“They came back with several social media videos they wouldn’t normally have had,” Willey said. “It was a really cool, hands-on lesson in thinking about content from every angle.”

Willey said students also learned that there isn’t a single path in media. Gorman described his own career as “chaotic… tough… crazy hours,” but ultimately one he “absolutely love[s].” He stressed the importance of curiosity, hard work, and passion — lessons that resonated deeply with the students.

For the students, seeing someone who walked the same halls achieve professional success was both inspiring and tangible. “It’s really cool having somebody of a different level who did something with where they came from and brought it back to the community,” Willey said.

The hands-on, real-life experience didn't end there for NPHS students. They also traveled to Lincoln for a behind-the-scenes look at Husker Vision, the University of Nebraska’s athletic media production operations. There, they toured the facilities, watched how live sports broadcasts are produced, and participated in a high school media day simulation. Willey said the experience was eye-opening. 

“A lot of kids were blown away… a couple of them said that’s where they’re applying for college,” he said. The Lincoln trip offered students a real-world connection to the lessons they were learning from Gorman and a glimpse at professional media production at a high level.

Gorman praised Willey’s dedication and the school’s commitment to students. “I’ve never really, especially like in my adult life post-college, seen a teacher like that connect with students the way he does,” Gorman said. He noted Willey’s energy during a full Friday — from early morning classes to late-night teardown after the football game — and added, “The future is in good hands if we have educators like him.”

The visit was made possible through the NPPS Foundation, which seeks to connect alumni with students. Director Terri Burchell said, “The NPPS Foundation continually looks for ways to engage Bulldog alumni to share their talents with their high school alma mater, North Platte High School.”

Gorman plans to return to North Platte, promising, “I’ll definitely be back to talk to those students.” 

For Bulldog Production students, the week was more than a visit — it was a masterclass in creativity, risk-taking, and professional growth, leaving a lasting impact and a renewed energy for their own projects.

Bulldog Production Students Learn from Alum Chris Gorman’s Return

The City of North Platte Sanitation Department will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 27th and 28th&nbsp;in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.&nbsp;

Extra crews will be working to complete all routes by end of the workday on Wednesday, November 26th. Please have your carts in place for collection by 6:30 a.m. on Monday, November 24 to avoid being missed.&nbsp;

All garbage needs to be bagged, in the city issued containers and the lids must be closed. No bags or trash on the ground.

The transfer station will be closed on Thursday, November 27th and Friday, November 28th. Transfer Station will reopen on Saturday, November 29th with regular hours of 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.&nbsp;

No Hazardous waste collection on Thursday, November 27th.

Sign up for future direct notifications by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.northplattene.gov/notify">www.northplattene.gov/notify</a>.&nbsp;

Thanksgiving Week Garbage Service & Transfer Station Hours

North Platte, Neb., – A widespread internet disruption is affecting users around the globe today as Cloudflare, a major internet infrastructure provider, experiences a significant service outage. The incident has temporarily taken down multiple websites and online services, including X, ChatGPT, and hundreds of other platforms that rely on Cloudflare’s network.

The outage began early this morning, around 6:48 a.m. ET, according to reports. Cloudflare confirmed the disruption on its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cloudflarestatus.com/">status page</a>, citing “internal service degradation” and intermittent impacts to some services. Early indications suggest the issue may be partially linked to scheduled maintenance at some data centers.

This is not the first major internet disruption in 2025. A month ago, an AWS (Amazon Web Services) outage caused widespread service interruptions, affecting thousands of websites and cloud-based applications. Additionally, Cloudflare experienced a global outage back in June, which similarly knocked out numerous online platforms and highlighted the risks of centralized internet infrastructure.

Cloudflare provides critical services including content delivery, DNS, and web security, meaning that when its systems falter, the effects ripple across the internet. Users have reported error messages, slow load times, and inaccessible platforms. For newsrooms, businesses, and individuals, the outage underscores how much daily internet activity depends on centralized infrastructure providers.

Affected platforms have acknowledged the issue and are working with Cloudflare to restore normal operations. Some users are experiencing intermittent connectivity even as engineers address the problem.

For those trying to access impacted websites, experts advise waiting for updates from the service providers and monitoring Cloudflare’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cloudflarestatus.com/">status page</a>&nbsp;for real-time information.

As the situation unfolds, it is a reminder of the hidden systems that keep the internet running—and how vulnerable those systems can be.

Major Cloudflare Outage Disrupts Internet Services Worldwide

The Hot Sheets: November 18, 2025

(Ogallala, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a death that occurred at the Keith County Jail on Sunday.

Sunday evening, NSP was contacted by the Keith County Sheriff’s Office regarding a death that had occurred at the jail. Keith County Jail staff had located an inmate deceased inside a cell. The death appeared to be a suicide. There was no other person inside the cell at the time.

The inmate was identified as Dawson Reifschneider, 25. Reifschneider was being held in Keith County Jail while awaiting trial in Scotts Bluff County.

The Keith County Attorney’s Office has requested the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the grand jury investigation.

NSP Investigating Death at Keith County Jail

Santa’s Workshop returns to Mid-Plains Community College Thursday, Dec. 4, at both its McCook and North Platte campuses.

All are welcome to enjoy family-friendly holiday fun at the following locations:

Activities will include cookie decorating, coloring, a hot chocolate bar, games for prizes and a visit by a “special guest.”

The event, organized by MPCC’s Student Life Departments, is free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

MPCC to Host Santa’s Workshop Dec. 4

BIG SPRINGS, Neb. — Two people were arrested Friday morning after the Deuel County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team executed a search warrant in Big Springs.

According to the Sheriff’s office, the warrant was served shortly after 9 a.m. at 604 Chestnut Street on November 14.

Deputies say Darrell Hyberg III, 26, and Taylor Grafford, 38, were taken into custody without incident. Both face multiple charges, including:

During the operation, South Platte School was placed on lockdown as a precaution. The sheriff’s office says the school was notified again once the scene was secure, and the lockdown was lifted.

Two Arrested Friday After SWAT-Assisted Search in Big Springs

The Hot Sheets: November 17, 2025

North Platte, Neb. - The North Platte City Council will meet Tuesday, November 18, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. Residents can attend in person or watch live on YouTube at <a href="http://www.northplattene.gov/watch">www.northplattene.gov/watch</a>.

The meeting will cover a range of important topics affecting the community. Council members are expected to consider annexing multiple parcels of land along East 6th Street, review proposals for real estate sales including 2001 East 2nd Street, and discuss the city’s approach to solar power generation.

Routine matters will also be addressed, including approval of meeting minutes, financial reports, and emergency medical service contracts with local and regional providers. The council will review lease agreements and communications site contracts, which are intended to support city services and infrastructure.

A public hearing will be held on the proposed property sale at 2001 East 2nd Street, and while the discussion on solar power will not result in immediate action, it offers a glimpse into the city’s focus on renewable energy options.

Residents wishing to speak during the meeting must identify themselves and address the council through the mayor. The city requests that concerns regarding city employees be addressed privately rather than in the public forum.

Mayor Brandon Kelliher and city officials will also provide updates and informational items to the community during the session.

North Platte City Council to Discuss Land Annexations, Solar Power, and Real Estate Sales November 18

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss an exciting victory over Garden City Community College and what he feels his team needs to focus on for the upcoming games.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

By: Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Listen to the full interview with Terri Burchell on our Kubota Podcast Page.

North Platte, Neb. — The North Platte Public Schools Foundation continues to make a meaningful impact on students, providing support that extends far beyond the classroom. From scholarships and classroom grants to arts programs and food assistance, the foundation is helping students succeed in school and in life.

Terri Burchell, representing the foundation, highlighted the upcoming Scholarship Day for the Class of 2026, set for Thursday. 

“We noticed fewer students are applying for scholarships... We decided to have kind of a scholarship day and create that awareness and have the students come in if they’ve got questions on how to fill things out,” Burchell said. “A lot of times I do think it’s the parents that help them quite a bit... we try to be there as another adult in their life helping them get their reference letters and see which scholarships are applicable for them.”

This year, the foundation alone is awarding more than $23,000 in scholarships, ranging from $100 to $2,000. 

“At least it buys a book or something to help with their education... That’s why the donors started that and why they wanted to do that,” Burchell said. The scholarships help students pursue higher education at institutions such as Mid-Plains Community College, WyoTech, the University of Nebraska, and Creighton University.

Beyond scholarships, the foundation supports a variety of programs that enhance student learning and engagement. The student council is running a contest to collect items for school and local food pantries, encouraging participation from all grade levels. Donations contribute to local pantries as well as the school’s own food program, helping to address food insecurity among students.

The foundation also awards Teacher Reach Grants, funding creative classroom projects that enrich the curriculum. Past grants have supported theater programs, homework incentive programs, and field trips such as a high school visit to see the Philadelphia Orchestra in Lincoln.

Burchell noted the importance of community partnerships in expanding the foundation’s reach. Local businesses such as Fat Dogs and Quick Stuff have helped double the number of grants awarded, providing students with more opportunities to explore the arts and other hands-on experiences.

One particularly exciting project was the refurbishment of a grand piano at North Platte High School, funded by donations from alumni and local supporters. “It’s amazing to see something come full circle—from alumni who played on it to students who will now enjoy it for years to come,” Burchell said.

The North Platte Public Schools Foundation remains committed to helping students thrive academically, creatively, and socially. Through scholarships, classroom grants, arts programs, and essential support services, the foundation is shaping opportunities for students while strengthening ties within the community.

For more information on scholarships, donations, or community partnerships, contact the foundation at 696-3325 or visit the high school.

🎙️North Platte Public Schools Foundation Empowers Students Through Scholarships, Grants, and Community Programs

Listen the full interview with Russ Jones on our Kubota Podcast Page.

North Platte, NE – Midwest Championship Fighting (MCF) is set to bring a night of intense MMA action and community celebration to North Platte with its upcoming “Salute to Veterans V” event at the D&amp;N Event Center.&nbsp;

Russ Jones, MCF President, says the event offers a mix of fight levels rarely seen in one night. “We start with street fights—guys literally off the streets—then move to amateur matches, amateur title fights, and finally professional bouts,” he explained. “The lower-level fights are just as important as the high-level fights because that’s how fighters get to the top.” Some street fighters even receive free training if they want to continue competing, giving local athletes an opportunity to develop skills and find a constructive outlet.

Veterans Honored
The “Salute to Veterans” program, now in its fifth year, invites over 200 veterans to attend free of charge with VIP seating. The event includes a flag salute at the start and a special parade of veterans during intermission. “We started this program to give veterans a place to gather, celebrate, and be recognized for their service,” Jones said. The initiative also creates a space where veterans of all ages can connect, fostering camaraderie and community.

Tickets remain available at <a href="https://www.midwestchampionshipfighting.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">midwestchampionshipfighting.com</a>, including a pay-per-view option for $35. Jones encouraged fans to arrive early to see the veterans parade, expected around 7:30 p.m..

He also highlighted several fights fans are eagerly anticipating, including local favorites Bristol vs. Seamann, Chris Burbine, Jareb Huerta, Oliver Nutter, and Madison McCord. 

“Bristol vs. Seamann is a heated street fight that fans have been waiting for,” he said. “And we also have a title fight that promises to be one of the standout bouts of the evening.”

Beyond entertainment, MCF provides a safe, structured environment where fighters—many on the "fringe" of society—can channel their energy positively. 

“These kids are looking for an outlet, a brotherhood,” Jones said. “Seeing fighters step into the cage is a moment you can’t put a value on.”

MCF events also draw a significant audience, boosting the local economy while providing a unique entertainment option in Western Nebraska. For North Platte residents, MCF Salute to Veterans offers a rare combination of high-level MMA action, veteran recognition, and community engagement.

🎙️Midwest Championship Fighting Returns to North Platte with “Salute to Veterans V”

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed the opening weekend of basketball and what he observed from the games. Coach Thurman also discussed how important culture is to a young team and how he sees its effects early on.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #4 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss the opening weekend of action vs Laramie County Community College and Eastern Wyoming Community College and what he saw from his team. And what transpired on the Knights' first two road games earlier this week.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #5 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Listen to the full interview with Landon Drews on our Kubota Podcasts

PAXTON, Neb. — What started as a small student idea has blossomed into one of Paxton’s most hands-on community agricultural projects. Paxton High School junior Landon Drews is preparing to host the second annual Harvest Day, part of his student-led Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project through FFA.

Landon first began the project as a freshman, taking on the challenge of managing a test plot on local farmland — a bold move that’s since grown into a full-scale, community-supported event.

“When we started, I was just supposed to farm the ground,” Drews explained. “Then my brother mentioned doing a test plot, and from there I knew I wanted to make it big.”

Last year’s plot featured six seed dealers and multiple corn varieties. This year, Landon expanded the project to include no-till and strip-till test plots with seven seed dealers — each providing a single variety for comparison. The project, he said, gives seed companies valuable data while helping him learn the science and strategy behind crop production.

“It’s a dryland test plot, which is pretty rare,” Drews said. “Most are irrigated, but I wanted to see how these varieties perform under real dryland conditions. It’s been awesome to watch it all come together.”

Support from area businesses like Hi-Line Co-op and Clauss Equipment in Ogallala has made the project possible, assisting with spraying and harvesting. Drews said he’s grateful for their continued backing — and for the enthusiasm from the community.

The highlight of the year is Harvest Day, happening Tuesday, November 4, starting with elementary student visits around 9 a.m., followed by a community hamburger feed from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (MT).

This year’s event will include hands-on learning stations featuring farm equipment, seed corn, and ag technology from 21st Century Equipment, Akrs Equipment, Fendt, and more. Students will have a chance to see and touch machinery they might not encounter otherwise.

“I wanted to get kids involved and show them what agriculture looks like up close,” Drews said. “It’s amazing how many kids from rural schools haven’t had that opportunity. Maybe it sparks something in them to go into farming or ag careers.”

Landon’s leadership has already made an impact — younger students recognize him in the halls and ask how “their” test plot is doing.

“It shows me I might be a role model for them,” he said. “This project has really helped me grow as a leader.”

Looking ahead, Drews said he and his seed partners are already brainstorming what next year’s plot might hold — possibly dryland soybeans. He’s also applying for a proficiency degree, a prestigious FFA recognition awarded to top student projects across Nebraska.

For now, his focus is on celebrating this year’s success. “I invite everyone out to Harvest Day,” Drews said. “Come see what we’ve built, enjoy a hamburger, and learn a little bit about agriculture.”

Harvest Day 2025 will be held Tuesday, November 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (MT) at the Paxton test plot. The public is invited to attend.

🎙️Paxton FFA Student Grows Leadership and Community with Harvest Day Project

It's gameday everyone! On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss the opening weekend of action vs Laramie County Community College and Eastern Wyoming Community College.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #4 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed the team's journey this preseason and where the most growth has been shown. Plus, getting you prepared for the first regular season games of 2025, beginning on Friday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #3 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview recap of October meetings with Commissioner Kent Weems.

North Platte, Neb - Lincoln County Commissioners met Monday, October 27, to address key county operations, public safety, and community planning matters.

Emergency Management Vehicle Replacement


The board approved the purchase of a used pickup for Region 51 Emergency Management. Commissioner Kent Weems explained the need: “This vehicle is a secondary unit for responding to wildfires, hazardous material incidents, and other emergencies. It’s essential for transporting volunteers, materials, and water to fire crews.”

The vehicle, purchased for $24,000 using $8,000 from an insurance settlement and $16,000 from the emergency management budget, replaced one that had been totaled in a winter accident. Weems noted, “We were able to get this under budget, and it didn’t require a formal bid. It’s a good deal for the county and keeps our response capabilities strong.”

Region 51 provided a quarterly report highlighting ongoing training and collaboration with local fire departments, including federally funded HAZMAT programs. Funding delays due to the federal government shutdown were noted, but Weems reassured the board: “Even though reimbursements are delayed, operations continue, and we’re ready to respond to any emergencies.”

The commissioners also discussed a courthouse-focused public safety exercise scheduled for January. “This is about proactive preparedness,” Weems said. “Even if there isn’t an immediate threat, we want staff to know how to respond if something happens.”

The board addressed a gap in the Text My Gov alert system, which currently does not automatically share controlled burn notifications from smaller fire departments. Weems explained, “We want residents to have timely information on all controlled burns, not just the big ones. We’re working to expand the system to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.”

Weems clarified a longstanding concern regarding an injured dog at the Tenderhearts Veterinary Center. “The county wasn’t involved in this incident. There was some miscommunication, but the owner has been located, and we’re updating our agreements to prevent confusion in the future,” he said.

Conditional Use Permit for Family Cemetery


Finally, the board approved a conditional use permit for a family cemetery east of North Platte. Weems emphasized the importance of careful planning: “We want to make sure this cemetery is protected for future generations. Access, care, and protections from livestock are all key considerations.”

The October 27 meeting highlighted the commissioners’ ongoing focus on public safety, responsible budgeting, and community planning.

🎙️Lincoln County Commissioners Approve Vehicle Purchase, Public Safety Initiatives, and Conditional Use Permit 

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

WASHINGTON — A bill is heading to President Donald Trump’s desk compelling the release of unclassified investigative files from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a friend to the rich and powerful who died in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019 awaiting federal trial on sex trafficking charges.

Senate Republicans on Tuesday night did not object to a unanimous consent request from Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to accept and pass the legislation, as is, after the U.S. House overwhelmingly approved the measure earlier in the day.

A senior administration official told States Newsroom the president will sign the bill “whenever it gets to the White House.”

The lawmakers in the lower chamber voted&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2025289" target="_blank">427-1</a>&nbsp;to compel the Department of Justice to release materials related to the government’s investigation of the financier who harmed over 1,000 victims, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La., was the lone “no” vote.

Survivors and their supporters watched the vote from the chamber’s gallery seats. Among them was Sky Roberts, the brother of the late Virginia Giuffre, who sued Epstein’s co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell and the British royal family’s Andrew Windsor, who recently was stripped of his title of prince. Giuffre died by suicide in April.

“I’m very happy with the outcome, but this is just the beginning, and we have a lot of work ahead of us, a lot more to do,” Haley Robson told States Newsroom in an interview after the vote. Robson is prominent among those who have shared their stories of abuse by Epstein.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-resolution/581" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;now goes to Trump, who said Monday he will sign it.

‘Courage and advocacy’ of survivors cited

Schumer, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media earlier the vote would “not have been possible without the courage and advocacy of Jeffrey Epstein’s survivors. They made this vote possible. They risked their safety coming out of the darkness to share their stories and to tell the truth.”

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said earlier Tuesday he expected the bill to move through the Senate “fairly quickly” and likely without changes, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/11/18/politics/what-happens-next-epstein-bill" target="_blank">reporting</a>&nbsp;by CNN.

The legislation compels the Justice Department to publicly disclose “all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in its possession that relate to Epstein or Maxwell.” They include records related to Epstein’s detention and death; flight logs from Epstein’s planes; names of those connected with Epstein’s alleged crimes; records of civil settlements, and sealed and unsealed immunity deals and plea bargains; records pertaining to entities with ties to Epstein’s trafficking or financial networks; and internal DOJ communications “concerning decisions to investigate or charge Epstein or his associates.”&nbsp;

The bill carves out exceptions for records containing victims’ identities, images of death or physical abuse, and information that could jeopardize a federal investigation.&nbsp;

The bill also notes that the “DOJ may not withhold or redact records on the basis of embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity.”

Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson opposed the House effort to release the files until this week.

Johnson said Tuesday morning that he will vote for the measure that has been forced to the floor after Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Ro Khanna, D-Calif., gathered enough signatures on a discharge petition to override leadership.

The Louisiana Republican told reporters at his regular House leadership press conference that the “forcing mechanism here prevents the very deliberate, professional, careful manner in which Congress is supposed to do this.”

“But having now forced the vote, none of us want to go on record and in any way be accused of not being for maximum transparency,” Johnson&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/news-conference/house-republican-leaders-hold-news-conference/669234" target="_blank">said</a>.

The vote comes less than a week after lawmakers on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-dems-say-newly-released-epstein-emails-show-trump-knew-about-abuse" target="_blank">released</a>&nbsp;some 20,000 pages of emails from Epstein’s estate that repeatedly mentioned Trump’s name.&nbsp;

In one email from Epstein to convicted co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, the financier and sex offender claimed Trump “knew about the girls.”

Trump denies any involvement with Epstein’s alleged crimes, and has said that he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/29/politics/epstein-trump-falling-out-analysis" target="_blank">kicked Epstein out</a>&nbsp;of his private Florida club, Mar-a-Lago, because he alleged the financier had poached young female staffers from the club. Epstein was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/01/us/jeffrey-epstein-grand-jury" target="_blank">convicted</a>&nbsp;in Florida of soliciting minors for sex in 2008.&nbsp;

During a press conference in the Oval Office Tuesday alongside the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump told reporters, “As far as the Epstein files, I have nothing to do with Jeffery Epstein. I threw him out of my club many years ago because I thought he was a sick pervert.”

Trump added, as he has repeatedly said before, that the files are a “Democratic hoax.”

Women who told stories of being abused by Epstein as teens rallied outside the U.S. Capitol Tuesday morning, alongside Massie, Khanna and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., whom Trump attacked online this weekend, nicknaming her a “traitor.”

Robson told the crowd that as a Republican herself, the advocacy from Massie and Greene is “unbelievable to watch, and we are so grateful.”

“And to the president of the United States of America, who is not here today, I want to send a clear message to you: While I do understand that your position has changed on the Epstein files, and I’m grateful that you have pledged to sign this bill, I can’t help to be skeptical of what the agenda is,” Robson said.

In a Sunday night post on his own social media platform, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-about-face-urges-us-house-republicans-vote-release-epstein-files" target="_blank">told Republicans</a>&nbsp;to vote in favor of the bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-resolution/581" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;Tuesday, which lawmakers have named the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

Greene, who also spoke at the press conference, said the administration’s refusal to release what are collectively referred to as the Epstein files “has ripped MAGA apart.”

“The only thing that will speak to the powerful, courageous women behind me is when action is actually taken to release these files, and the American people won’t tolerate any other b- – – -t,” Greene said.

GOP Reps. Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Lauren Boebert of Colorado were the other Republicans to join Massie, Greene and all Democrats to sign the petition.

In a second press conference outside the Capitol later Tuesday morning, the House’s newest Democratic member, Arizona’s Adelita Grijalva, spoke alongside sexual abuse prevention advocates.&nbsp;

“The momentum behind this did not come from politicians. It came from survivors and the public who demanded answers. This is why the discharge petition crossed 218 signatures, despite Speaker Johnson doing everything in his power to prevent this from happening, including calling an early summer release, and delaying myself my swearing in for seven weeks,” Grijalva said.

Grijalva became the petition’s 218th signature on Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/arizonas-adelita-grijalva-sworn-us-house-signs-epstein-petition" target="_blank">immediately after</a>&nbsp;her swearing-in ceremony.&nbsp;

Johnson refused to swear in Grijalva, who won her seat on Sept. 23, during the government shutdown despite precedent of other representatives swearing an oath while the House is out of session.

U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., also spoke at the press conference, warning that Senate leadership should not “delay this any further.”

“They need to schedule a vote on this so this can get passed into law,” Kelly said.

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-administration/live-blog/trump-congress-jeffrey-epstein-files-venezuela-maduro-live-updates-rcna244133" target="_blank">told</a>&nbsp;NBC News Monday he would sign the legislation.

Roughly a dozen public protesters stood outside the police barricade surrounding the press conference, holding signs demanding the release of the Epstein files.

Robin Galbraith, 61, of Maryland, held a sign protesting Johnson’s refusal to allow an earlier floor vote to disclose the files.

“These survivors deserve justice. And you know, all women and girls deserve justice,” Galbraith told States Newsroom in an interview. “Like when you have the richest people in the world trafficking girls, I mean, as somebody who has daughters and sons, we all want to see that children are not victims like this anymore.”

In July, the FBI issued a memo stating the department would not publicly release any further information on the Epstein case.

The sudden reversal, after Trump and his supporters campaigned on releasing the files, sparked upheaval among the president’s base and trained a magnifying glass on Trump’s well-documented friendship with Epstein.

The president sued The Wall Street Journal for reporting on a 50th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/trump-jeffrey-epstein-birthday-letter-we-have-certain-things-in-common-f918d796?mod=Searchresults_pos1&amp;page=1" target="_blank">birthday card</a>&nbsp;Trump allegedly gave to Epstein. The card featured a cryptic message and a doodle of a naked woman with Trump’s apparent signature mimicking pubic hair. Trump denies that he created and signed the birthday doodle.

The Journal also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/justice-department-told-trump-name-in-epstein-files-727a8038?mod=hp_lead_pos1" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;that Attorney General Pam Bondi briefed the president in May that his name appeared in the Epstein case files. The context in which his name appeared is unclear.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/article221404845.html" target="_blank">series</a>&nbsp;in the Miami Herald in 2018 by journalist Julie K. Brown drew wide attention to Epstein’s crimes and Trump’s appointment in 2017 of former Miami federal prosecutor Alex Acosta, who cut a deal in 2008 to end a federal investigation into Epstein, as the secretary of Labor.

Jennifer Shutt contributed to this report.

US Senate agrees with overwhelming House vote to force release of Epstein files

Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) announced Friday that 99.5% of votes cast by its shareholders supported issuing new shares of Union Pacific common stock in connection with its planned merger with Norfolk Southern.

“We appreciate our shareholders’ support in reaching this important milestone on our path to building America’s first coast-to-coast railroad,” said Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena. “Our shareholders see the value and understand this merger will unlock new opportunities to enhance service, growth and innovation. We look forward to filing our application with the Surface Transportation Board (STB) and detailing how the transaction will provide seamless, single-line service across the country to improve transit times, safely increase reliability and strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. rail.”

The preliminary vote count from Friday’s special meeting represented nearly 80% of all outstanding shares. The final tally will be reported in a Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission once Union Pacific’s independent inspector of elections certifies the results.

The merger remains subject to STB review and approval within its statutory timeline, along with other customary closing conditions.

For more details about the transaction, visit up-nstranscontinental.com.

Union Pacific Shareholders Approve Norfolk Southern Merger 99.5% of Votes Cast in Favor of the Transaction

By: Zach Wendling | <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/17/breaking-down-unls-final-27-5-million-budget-cut-proposal/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

Nearly $9 million in academic program eliminations, mergers head to NU regents Dec. 5; other cuts set in stone

LINCOLN —&nbsp;University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Rodney Bennett has finalized a plan to cut up to $27.5 million from UNL’s budget.&nbsp;

About $9 million in academic cuts go to the University of Nebraska Board of Regents for a final vote in December. This includes $4 million in anticipated savings from department mergers, which an&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/05/advisory-committee-splits-with-unl-chancellor-on-key-academic-program-cuts/">advisory committee</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://budgetprocess.unl.edu/sites/unl.edu.budget-process/files/media/file/20251024_apc_recommendation.pdf" target="_blank">supported almost unanimously</a>. Most other cuts are now set in stone, though many details still need to be ironed out.

“I have a strong conviction that even though what we are doing is very difficult, it is in the best interest of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s long-term future,” Bennett said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://chancellor.unl.edu/message-chancellor-final-budget-reduction-plan/" target="_blank">Nov. 10 email</a>&nbsp;announcing his&nbsp;<a href="https://budgetprocess.unl.edu/final-budget-reduction-plan/" target="_blank">final plan</a>.

The UNL chancellor’s latest proposal would cut at least $20.76 million, depending on the regents, and assuming the mergers are accepted. The number could be larger with not-yet-detailed executive administrative “efficiencies” sought and nearly 70 tenured faculty offered a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/08/08/nu-will-offer-tenured-faculty-buyout-program-to-help-close-budget-gaps/">buyout package</a>.

The current minimum total would be just shy of the $21 million Bennett has said is needed to close an ongoing “structural deficit” at UNL. Bennett’s plan also calls for $6.5 million in additional cuts meant to “help safeguard against repetitive budget reduction cycles.”&nbsp;The total is $27.5 million in the latest round of cuts.

The finalized plan shares many similarities with the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/09/13/unl-proposes-27-5-million-devastating-cuts-six-program-areas-slated-for-elimination/">proposal Bennett unveiled Sept. 12</a>. Here is an in-depth breakdown of the final budget plan and the status of each line item.

Academic program eliminations ($6.74 million) and department realignments ($2 million)*

Nearly $9 million of UNL’s budget reduction consists of eliminating or merging academic departments, which the regents will consider at a Dec. 5 meeting.

Local

Region

Sports

Podcasts