KEARNEY, Neb.&nbsp;— A small plane crash claims two lives northeast of Kearney late Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it lost contact with the aircraft about 9:30 p.m. as the plane was headed toward Kearney Regional Airport. Its last recorded position placed it several miles north of the runway.&nbsp;

Search teams from multiple agencies scoured the area overnight using drones, patrol vehicles and utility terrain vehicles (UTV’s). Heavy fog forced crews to pause the operation in the early morning hours at 2 a.m. before resuming at daybreak. The wreckage was located around 10 a.m. Thursday.&nbsp;

Both the pilot and passenger died at the crash site.&nbsp;

Flight data indicated the plane departed from an airfield near Terrace, Minnesota, on Wednesday evening around 7 p.m. &nbsp;

2 dead after small plane crashes near Kearney

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska drivers will face higher penalties for speeding beginning Sept. 3, under a new law aimed at curbing a surge in extreme speeding across the state.

The measure, LB530, raises fines for speeding violations and authorizes the Nebraska Department of Transportation to impose temporary, variable speed limits on interstates such as I-80 during poor weather, emergencies or traffic congestion.

Under the new law, fines will increase as follows:
— 1–5 mph over the limit: $50 (up from $10)
— 6–9 mph over: $75 (up from $25)
— 10–14 mph over: $125 (up from $75)
— 15–19 mph over: $200 (up from $125)
— 20–34 mph over: $300 (up from $200)
— 35 mph or more over: $400 (up from $300)

The law also classifies driving at more than twice the posted speed limit as reckless driving, which carries additional penalties.

Nebraska to raise speeding fines, allow variable speed limits under new law

North Platte, NE — August 28, 2025 — Grab your sneakers and your leash—the Doggy Dash 5K &amp; 1-Mile Walk/Run is back at Iron Horse Park on Saturday, September 6, 2025, supporting all the programs of Community Connections.

This year’s event features exciting new additions. Tristen Winder (Community Connections Mentoring Advisory Council member) and Victoria Norgaard, both from KNOP-TV, will emcee the race, bringing lively energy and fun banter to the morning. Participants will also enjoy enhanced race-day memories thanks to photographer Anna Langholz of “Just A Mom with a Camera” Photography, who will capture the day’s best moments.

Runners and walkers—whether accompanied by their dogs or not—can enjoy a 5K or 1-mile course, receive a long-sleeve race t-shirt, and be eligible for prizes and medals. The event also offers Platte River Fitness Series points for participants.

The Doggy Dash is made possible thanks to the generous support of all our sponsors, with special recognition for our Gold Level Sponsors, Inland Truck Parts, Heartland Animal Clinic, Walmart DC, Adams Bank &amp; Trust, and Chick-fil-A.

We are also grateful to the Platte River Fitness Series for including the Doggy Dash in their annual lineup and to the City of North Platte Parks Department for their ongoing care and upkeep of Iron Horse Park, which provides such a beautiful setting for this community tradition.

· What: Doggy Dash 5K &amp; 1-Mile Walk/Run

· Where: Iron Horse Park, North Platte, NE

· Day of Registration starts at 7:45 AM | Race Start: 8:45 AM · Pre-register Online: platteriverfitness.com/doggy

· Register by Mail: Community Connections, P.O. Box 852, North Platte, NE 69103

Doggy Dash 5K Returns September 6 with New Faces and Community Fun

The Hot Sheets: August 28, 2025

HERSHEY, Neb. (Aug. 27, 2025) — Hershey School Board President Steve Koch represented Nebraska this month at the National Forum on Education Policy in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The annual event, sponsored by the Education Commission of the States, brings together policymakers and education leaders from across the country to discuss priorities and challenges in education.

Koch attended alongside Nebraska Commissioner of Education Brian Maher, Nebraska Association of School Boards Executive Director John Spatz, state Sens. Jana Hughes, George Dungan Lonowski and Danielle Conrad Juarez, State Board of Education members Elizabeth Tegtmeier, Maggie Douglas and Kristin Christensen, and Mike Baumgartner of the Nebraska Coordinating Council for Higher Education.

“I was honored to be invited to attend and to represent school boards from Nebraska,” Koch said. “It was a great opportunity to learn, share ideas, and make sure the voices of Nebraska schools are part of the national conversation.”

Hershey Superintendent Jane Davis commended Koch’s selection.

“We are so proud of Steve,” Davis said. “His leadership on our school board is outstanding, and his service at the national level shows his commitment not only to Hershey students but to all students across Nebraska.”

Hershey School Board President Represents Nebraska at National Education Forum

The Hot Sheets: August 27, 2025

HAIGLER, Neb. — A mother and her young son were killed Monday evening after their vehicle was struck by a train near Haigler in extreme southwest Nebraska, authorities said.

According to the Dundy County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 7 p.m. Aug. 25 on a crossing near Old Highway 34 between mile markers 13 and 14, about six miles east of Haigler.

Investigators said a southbound car entered the railroad crossing from a private drive and was hit by an eastbound Burlington Northern train.

The driver, 44-year-old Rayetta Jene Buffington-Damon, and her 7-year-old son, Jaxson Buffington-Damon, were critically injured and taken to Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman, where they were pronounced dead. Both had been wearing seat belts, officials said.

Emergency crews from Benkelman EMS and Fire, Haigler Fire Department, and the Sheriff’s Office responded to the crash.

The sheriff’s office extended its condolences to the family and friends of the victims.

Mother, son killed in car-train collision near Haigler

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (Aug. 23, 2025) — Two North Platte men were cited Saturday night after deputies say they fired multiple gunshots from a vehicle on North Airport Road.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched around 10 p.m. after a caller reported hearing several gunshots and seeing a vehicle whose occupants appeared to be shooting randomly. Authorities said no homes or property were targeted.

North Platte police located the vehicle in the city and detained the occupants until deputies arrived.

Following an investigation, 32-year-old Jacob Pyzer and 23-year-old Ezeikial Florea, both of North Platte, were cited for discharge of a firearm from a highway, possession of an open alcohol container in a vehicle, and disturbing the peace.

Two cited after shots fired from vehicle near North Platte

OMAHA, Neb. (Aug. 26, 2025) — First National Bank of Omaha has awarded more than $1.7 million in community impact grants to 90 organizations across its eight-state footprint, with the majority of funding directed to programs in Nebraska and Iowa.

The bank announced it will distribute $1.14 million to 53 organizations in the two states, with grants focused on its pillars of giving: affordable housing, workforce development and financial literacy.

Among the recipients are Habitat for Humanity groups in western Nebraska. North Platte Habitat for Humanity received $15,000 to support its annual home-building initiative, which provides pathways to homeownership for individuals and families. Scottsbluff/Gering Habitat for Humanity, which also serves Alliance and Chadron, was awarded $30,000 for its home-building efforts.

FNBO awards $1.7 million in impact grants, including support for western Nebraska Habitat projects

The Hot Sheets: August 26, 2025

NORTH PLATTE, Neb - The 2025 North Platte Community College raffle car, a 1972 GMC C10, will spend the remainder of its summer tour at the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island.

The C10 will be on display inside the Pinnacle Bank Expo Center from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 22 through August 31 and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sept. 1. The public will have the opportunity to view and purchase tickets for the car at that time.

New this year, tickets may be purchased online via a debit card through the mpcc.edu website.

The GMC C10 is the 20th raffle vehicle produced by the college’s Transportation Division. It was restored by students in NPCC’s Automotive Technology and Auto Body Technology programs.

The vehicle features a 6.0L engine, 4L80 transmission, rosso red poly paint scheme with a metallic black top, custom box and vintage air.

The C10 toured the state throughout the summer, making appearances at car shows, parades and cruise night events.

A total of 10,000 raffle tickets are for sale at a cost of $10 each. Proceeds will be used for scholarships for students in the college’s transportation programs and to help offset the cost of producing the next raffle car project.

The drawing for the C10 will be at 2 p.m. Sept. 6 at Memorial Park in North Platte, Neb., during the annual Colonel Cody’s Cruise Show and Shine.

NPCC raffle car to round out summer tour at state fair

HERSHEY, Neb. (Aug. 19, 2025) — The Hershey Lions Club is gearing up for a full day of small-town tradition and big-time entertainment Saturday as the Hershey Fall Festival returns, capped off by a concert featuring Texas country artist Casey Donahew.

The festival kicks off at 10:30 a.m. with a parade along Main Street, winding down to the park where events continue throughout the day. Highlights include a prime rib lunch, car show, tractor display, local vendors, and the Hershey Volunteer Fire Department’s popular water fight. Other crowd favorites are set to return as well, including Cow Pie Bingo and the Beer Olympics at Kathy’s Place.

“This festival really brings everyone together all day,” said Lions Club member Justin Petska. “There’s something for everyone, from families at the park to folks who just want to come out and enjoy the concert at night.”

The evening festivities open at 5 p.m. with a beer garden and food vendors, followed by live music. Drew Phillips will open the show before Donahew takes the stage downtown against the backdrop of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks — a setting organizers say makes the event unique.

Advance tickets are $20 and available at Hershey State Bank locations in North Platte and Hershey, as well as online at outhousetickets.com. Tickets will also be available at the gate for $25. Drinks will be sold on a ticket system, with beer and seltzers available for $5 each.

Petska said the festival has become the Lions Club’s biggest fundraiser, helping to support community projects throughout the year. He credited sponsors and local support for making the event possible.

“When you see a thousand people packed into Main Street in Hershey, it’s pretty special,” Petska said. “We couldn’t put on a weekend like this without the help of our sponsors and the community.

<a href="https://outhousetickets.com/events/hershey-fall-festival-2025">GET TICKETS HERE</a>

Casey Donahew to Headline Hershey Fall Festival on Saturday (Podcast)

(Audio) Dianne Morales with PAWS-itive Partners Humane Society stops by to talk Woofstock 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Mac Report (August 15, 2025)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The North Platte City Council worked through a packed agenda Tuesday night, tackling key issues from airport funding to conditional use permits including a well-attended public hearing on a proposed daycare center at the former Osgood School building.

Despite the many things on the agenda, the meeting remained civil and productive, Mayor Brandon Kelliher said.

“If you come out alive and don’t feel like you were beating each other up, I think we’re going to claim that as an overall success,” Kelliher said.

Airport Funding and Port of the Plains Expansion

The Council approved a resolution allowing city administration to draft an agreement with the North Platte Regional Airport Authority to provide monthly advances of its annual property tax revenues. The move aims to help the airport avoid taking out costly lines of credit by smoothing its revenue stream.

“It’s really a tax control measure,” Kelliher said, explaining that consistent monthly advances will eliminate the need for interest payments and reduce future tax burden.

The council also supported a resolution recommending the inclusion of the airport within the boundaries of the Nebraska International Port of the Plains. The move would allow for future cargo operations and potential commercial development on airport grounds—possibly making North Platte the first city in Nebraska with a port designation at an airport.

With new tennis and pickleball courts now open, councilmembers addressed concerns about damage from off-leash dogs during training sessions. The council held the first reading of an ordinance prohibiting animals on the new court surfaces and introduced plans to install a fenced dog training area at Kriz Park.

“We’re not trying to displace dog trainers permanently,” Kelliher said. “We just can’t have the surface of the tennis courts damaged.”

The designated dog training area won’t be a full dog park but will offer space for off-leash training, fetching, and classes. The mayor said future expansions could be considered depending on how the area is used.

Public Hearing: Daycare at Former School Endorsed

The most anticipated item of the night was a public hearing and conditional use permit application by Trucks N Tiaras Academy, a local daycare operator seeking to move to 491–495 W. State Farm Road, formerly Osgood School.

“Usually when there's something contentious, someone will speak against it—even just one person,” Kelliher said. “But in this case, all public comments were in favor.”

Ryan Purdy, president of Mid-Plains Community College, which purchased the building earlier this year, shared the college’s future plans during the meeting. While Trucks N Tiaras will operate in the facility under a two-year lease, the college is preparing to develop academic programs at the site thereafter.

Mayor Kelliher took a moment to remind residents of the importance of public hearings and civic involvement.

“You make the best decisions when you have all the facts,” he said. “Just because you don’t agree with something doesn’t mean your facts are wrong. That’s how the democratic process works.”

Kelliher encouraged residents to attend council meetings, ask questions, and share their perspectives — especially on issues that matter directly to them.

“There’s nothing wrong with coming out and saying you disagree with something. It’s not only welcomed, it’s essential.”

The next North Platte City Council meeting is scheduled for later this month.

Council approves Airport Funding Plan, Endorses Daycare Permit at former Osgood School

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Families in the North Platte area are invited to a one-stop community health event this Friday, July 25, at Mid-Plains Community College’s North Campus, where organizers hope to eliminate barriers and connect residents to vital services — all while having a little fun.

Running from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., the Community Health Fair is a collaborative effort led by organizations including Hope Esperanza, Great Plains Health, West Central District Health Department, North Platte Public Schools, and People’s Health. This year’s event moves to the college’s North Campus at 1101 Halligan Drive, with health booths, safety resources, and school-readiness support available to the public at no cost.

Maria Rodriguez of Hope Esperanza, a nonprofit helping bridge language gaps and connect underserved residents to resources, said the event is designed to streamline back-to-school preparations for local families — particularly those new to the area.

“It’s a one-stop shop where parents can take their children to get vaccines, health screenings, school registrations, safety education, and so much more,” Rodriguez said in a radio interview this week. “We have a lot of newcomers, and we’ve been encouraging them to come, because they can get almost everything done in one visit.”

Booths inside the college cafeteria will feature health screenings, vaccinations, educational materials, and community resources. Outside, families can enjoy kid-friendly activities including a helicopter landing by LifeNet at 4:30 p.m., free backpacks for children who complete activity cards, and grilled food provided by Sustainable Beef, using a grill donated by First Interstate Bank.

Hope Esperanza will also provide language access services for non-English speakers — a core part of its mission, which began with outreach to minority communities but has since expanded to serve all residents.

“We started this to bridge the language gap, but we saw the greater need across the whole community,” Rodriguez said. “This is also a great place to learn about resources people may not need now but could need in the future.”

Rodriguez credited funding from the Nebraska Blue Foundation for helping make the event possible. Part of the grant supports the health fair, while the remainder will fund ongoing health-focused programs through Hope Esperanza.

With school just weeks away, organizers hope families will take advantage of the opportunity to prepare — and enjoy a fun Friday afternoon.

“Bring the kids — there’s something for everyone,” Rodriguez said. “We hope to see you all there.”

Health Fair Offers One-Stop Services, Fun for Families at North Platte Community College Today (PODCAST)

The Nebraska State Fair welcomed more than 150,000 guests during its opening weekend, fueled by some of the best weather the Fair has seen in years. From Friday through Sunday, fairgoers packed the grounds to enjoy livestock shows, food, rides, and new attractions, leaving the Fair in a strong position heading into its second week.

Overall attendance through the first five days of the Fair reached&nbsp;154,464, with a handful of days remaining until the Fair concludes on Labor Day.

Vendors have reported record numbers during the opening weekend, with large crowds and steady foot traffic driving strong sales. “Saturday and Sunday were both incredible days out here at the Fair,” said Jaime Parr, Executive Director of the Nebraska State Fair. “Across the board the outdoor partners are experiencing an in increase in guest exposure while indoor partners celebrate business as comparable to, or up, compared to previous years.”

Parr said attendance was over 53,000 on Saturday alone – marking a 23% increase over first Saturday of last year’s event. Across the first 5 days overall attendance is up 19%, year over year.

“We saw a surge in sales opening weekend as weather delighted us with sunshine and 75-degree temperatures,” said Parr. “We don’t always get this lucky opening weekend, so our vendors and entertainers were ecstatic to have large crowds spending their entire day out here.”

Parr said she believes the increase in sales is likely attributed to the duration of time spent by guests at the Fair. The Fair reported an average duration of time of guests to be more than 6 hours each day through opening weekend, according to their guest survey.

Additional data gathered from their guest survey shows that 20% of guests who have attended the fair rated their overall experience 4 out of 5 stars while 65% rated their experience 5 out of 5 stars.

The Board of Directors credited the success to the efforts of staff and volunteers coming together to make opening weekend something folks looked forward to. “We’re incredibly proud of the teamwork that goes into making this event possible,” said Tom Schellpeper, Vice Chair of the Nebraska State Fair Board. “Nebraska is lucky to have so many dedicated individuals [superintendents, partners, volunteers, seasonal staff] that come back every year to make the Fair a fun place for families.”

With clear skies and cool August evenings helping set the tone, organizers are optimistic about continued strong attendance throughout the remaining five days. Guests can still look forward to a number of concerts, loads of kids activities and plenty of livestock as FFA takes the stage second weekend. The Fair wraps up on Labor Day at 7 p.m.

Heading into second weekend, guests can also look forward to Nebraska Lottery Outdoor Concert series which kicks off tonight (Aug. 28) with a free Sawyer Brown concert as well as a second drone and fireworks show after concerts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

For schedules, ticket information, and more, visit&nbsp;statefair.org.

First half of Nebraska State Fair brings more than 150,000 guests through the gates

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

OVERLAND PARK — Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman pushed for deepening relationships and maintaining international growth opportunities for Kansas farmers at a meeting of state political and agricultural leaders Wednesday.&nbsp;

Glickman and U.S. Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids spoke about the effects of tariffs and federal policies on Kansas farmers during a U.S. Global Leadership Coalition luncheon. The event was closed to journalists, but Glickman shared thoughts on the current political climate afterward.&nbsp;

“My theory is pretty much don’t burn bridges, build bridges,” he said. “I got along very well with (Pat) Roberts, (Bob) Dole, (Nancy) Kassebaum. We didn’t try to kill each other.”

Glickman, a Democrat, said Dole, a longtime Republican senator, helped him get the position as secretary of agriculture, which he held from 1995 to 2001 during the Clinton administration.&nbsp;

Politicians need to be able to reach across the aisle and have open discussions and agreements, Glickman said.&nbsp;

“I hope we can create an environment where there’s trust in the system of government generally, because it’s not just agriculture, it’s everything,” he said. “And then we have some predictability in foreign policy, federal farm policy.”

He would also like to see Republicans stand up to the president, something he said he had to do when he served under Clinton.&nbsp;

“I’d like to see the Republicans show more courage and moxie in challenging the president – on the federal side, not so much on the Kansas side – when they think he’s wrong,” Glickman said. “It’s difficult to challenge a president if you’re in their party. When I would say to Clinton, ‘I think you’re wrong,’ I would do it very deliberately but still, I would do it at times, and I don’t see very much happening like that.”

National reports that legislators fear retaliation if they speak up aren’t good, Glickman said.&nbsp;

“I don’t think it’s healthy for democracy. You know, you’ve got to be able to speak out responsibly,” he said.

Building relationships extends beyond domestic politics, and Glickman is concerned international relationships may be impaired because of the way tariffs are being negotiated. He’s not against tariffs in general, he said, but he’s concerned about future trade effects.

“I’ve never been a purist on tariffs and trade,” he said. “I mean, there are some countries that abuse their relationships with us, and that’s why you have tariff agreements and trade agreements, to build those things in there so one country can’t take advantage of another by being too self protective.”&nbsp;

But Glickman said the way trade barriers are being implemented concerns him. Historically, international policies involved collaboration between Congress and the private sector to determine the best way to proceed, he said.

“Because when you put your finger on one set of problems, if you’re not careful, you’re going to create another set of problems,” Glickman said. “Agriculture has often been the whipping boy for those other sets of problems, because of how much we rely on access to global markets. So I guess my real answer is, can we do this carefully, or do we have to do it with a sledgehammer?”

Right now, the country is relying too much on the sledgehammer, Glickman said.

Growth opportunities in agriculture lie in the international market, he said.&nbsp;

“The president said something when he announced the original set of tariffs – ‘American farmers are going to love this, because they can finally take advantage of domestic markets,’ and I’m thinking to myself, no, that’s not where the growth is,” Glickman said. “There’s not really much growth in domestic markets. There might be a little here, a little there. All the growth is global, and so maybe he doesn’t understand it.”

Nick Levendofsky, executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union, attended the luncheon and agreed with Glickman.&nbsp;

“As Secretary Glickman mentioned, we are becoming less and less of a reliable trading partner to the world,” he said. “Anymore, we are a global market, and you know, you can be upset with another country because maybe they don’t do as much trade with you and all that, but I’ve always believed that the carrot versus the stick does a lot more good.”

Levendofsky said the potential of growing markets such as India are important to Kansas farmers.&nbsp;

“If China is shutting the door on us, we’ve got to find an opening somewhere,” he said. “And that, to me, right now speaks to India.”

Along with international trade, Glickman is watching the future of the Farm Bill. The reconciliation bill passed by Congress in July addressed some policies usually found in the Farm Bill, but it didn’t include all the elements that need to be addressed, he said.&nbsp;

A Farm Bill has not passed this year, and Glickman said expert assessments that this may be the beginning of creating a different process for agricultural legislation is “astute.”

“We’ve had in the last 40 or 50 years, these five-year farm bills,” he said. “But then lately, we’ve been having these extensions every year and with no real fundamental change.”

Recent legislation added $40 to $50 billion of new or enhanced programs over the next 10 years, and also addressed commodity programs, crop insurance and risk management, Glickman said.&nbsp;

He hopes this won’t be the new normal because there were many subjcts not addressed, such as research and nutrition programs.&nbsp;

In his role as a senior fellow at the Bipartisan Policy Center and the Council on American Politics at George Washington University, Glickman said he keeps in contact with concerns of farmers and trade groups.

The real worry right now is instability, he said.

“The big story in agriculture is lack of stability, lack of planning, lack of predictability,” Glickman said. “Agriculture is complicated, and then the volatile weather complicates it further. Changes in the weather, plant and animal disease, making sure our research budgets are adequately funded – that’s all part of a new Farm Bill.”

Former ag secretary Glickman worries about ‘sledgehammer’ trade policies affecting Kansas farmers

WASHINGTON — In April Health secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;warned that children in the U.S. are being diagnosed with autism at an “alarming rate,” promising to conduct exhaustive studies to identify any environmental factors that may cause the developmental disorder.

During President Trump's Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Kennedy revealed his researchers have identified what could be responsible for Autism.&nbsp;

Autism experts applaud efforts to further understand the condition, but say the number of reported cases began to balloon as the definition of the condition expanded to include mild cases.

“We will have an announcement as promised in September,” Kennedy said. “We’re finding interventions, certain interventions now that are clearly almost certainly causing autism.”

🎥The latest promise from RFK Jr. on autism research

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>

WASHINGTON — The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention doesn’t appear inclined to leave her post, despite the Trump administration announcing Wednesday that she’s no longer running one of the country’s top public health agencies.&nbsp;

Attorneys for Susan Monarez, who received Senate confirmation in late July, posted that she hasn’t been fired or resigned, but didn’t announce whether they plan to sue the administration.&nbsp;

“When CDC Director Susan Monarez refused to rubber-stamp unscientific, reckless directives and fire dedicated health experts she chose protecting the public over serving a political agenda,” wrote Mark S. Zaid and Abbe David Lowell. “For that, she has been targeted. Dr. Monarez has neither resigned nor received notification from the White House that she has been fired, and as a person of integrity and devoted to science, she will not resign.”

The statement from Monarez’s attorneys came just hours after the Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the CDC, wrote on social media that she was no longer running the agency.&nbsp;

“Susan Monarez is no longer director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” the post stated. “We thank her for her dedicated service to the American people.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecKennedy" target="_blank">@SecKennedy</a>&nbsp;has full confidence in his team at<a href="https://x.com/CDCgov" target="_blank">@CDCgov</a>&nbsp;who will continue to be vigilant in protecting Americans against infectious diseases at home and abroad.”

The Washington Post&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/08/27/susan-monarez-cdc-director-ousted/" target="_blank">first reported</a>&nbsp;the news.&nbsp;

The U.S. Senate voted along party lines to confirm Monarez as CDC director in late July, giving her just weeks in one of the nation’s top public health roles.

Monarez’s last post on social media from her official account was on Aug. 22, marking the death of a police officer after&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/2025/08/08/police-officer-suspect-are-dead-after-shooting-near-atlanta-based-cdc/" target="_blank">a gunman opened fire</a>&nbsp;at the CDC’s headquarters in Atlanta.&nbsp;

“A large group of CDC employees and I attended today’s memorial for Officer David Rose, whose Tour of Duty ended on August 8 when he responded to shots fired,” Monarez wrote. “He leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and service to the community that will never be forgotten.”

The dispute over Monarez’s position as CDC director appeared to potentially mark the beginning of a wave of resignations from other public health officials, including Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases Demetre C. Daskalakis.

“I am unable to serve in an environment that treats CDC as a tool to generate policies and materials that do not reflect scientific reality and are designed to hurt rather than to improve the public’s health,” Daskalakis wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/dr_demetre/status/1960843433473376602" target="_blank">a lengthy social media post.</a>&nbsp;“The recent change in the adult and children’s immunization schedule threaten the lives of the youngest Americans and pregnant people.”

Monarez was President Donald Trump’s second choice for CDC director. He&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-unveils-his-lineup-fda-cdc-and-surgeon-general" target="_blank">originally selected</a>&nbsp;former Florida U.S. Rep. Dave Weldon to run the CDC shortly after he secured election to the Oval Office in November. But the White House&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/centers-disease-control-and-prevention-nominee-pulled-white-house" target="_blank">pulled Weldon’s nomination</a>&nbsp;in March, after it appeared he couldn’t secure the votes needed for confirmation.

Later that month, Trump announced his plans to nominate Monarez in&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114219231809224627" target="_blank">a social media post</a>.

“Dr. Monarez brings decades of experience championing Innovation, Transparency, and strong Public Health Systems,” Trump wrote. “She has a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, and PostDoctoral training in Microbiology and Immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine.

“As an incredible mother and dedicated public servant, Dr. Monarez understands the importance of protecting our children, our communities, and our future. Americans have lost confidence in the CDC due to political bias and disastrous mismanagement. Dr. Monarez will work closely with our GREAT Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert Kennedy Jr. Together, they will prioritize Accountability, High Standards, and Disease Prevention to finally address the Chronic Disease Epidemic and, MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN!”

Monarez&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-panel-grills-trump-cdc-nominee-vaccines" target="_blank">testified in front</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions in June as part of her confirmation process. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-panel-approves-trump-pick-head-centers-disease-control-and-prevention" target="_blank">committee voted</a>&nbsp;12-11 in July to send her nomination to the Senate floor, where Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-confirms-trump-pick-head-centers-disease-control-and-prevention" target="_blank">approved her to the post</a>&nbsp;later that month.&nbsp;

Chairman Bill Cassidy, R-La., said during the committee’s markup that he believed&nbsp;Monarez would put science first and help to restore public trust in the agency.&nbsp;

“The United States needs a CDC director who makes decisions rooted in science, a leader who will reform the agency and work to restore public trust in health institutions,” Cassidy said at the time. “With decades of proven experience as a public health official, Dr. Monarez is ready to take on this challenge.”

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