OMAHA, Neb. (May 21, 2025) — The opening day of the Nebraska State Track and Field Championships at Omaha Bryan High School featured standout performances from schools across Classes A and B, with medals earned, personal bests set, and finals qualifications secured under sunny skies in the metro.

North Platte made its mark early in the meet. Senior Keyala Williams earned bronze in the girls long jump, landing an 18-02 to finish third. In the girls discus, Katie Titus threw 124-11 to place fifth, adding more points to North Platte’s team tally.

Mackenzie Bruns competed in the girls pole vault, clearing 9 feet to place 16th overall. The North Platte girls 4x800-meter relay team posted a time of 10:23.87, good for 13th place.

On the boys' side, North Platte’s 4x800-meter relay team clocked an 8:08.06 to secure a strong fifth-place finish.

Ogallala’s Story Rasby claimed a gold medal in the Class B girls 400 meters, racing to a time of 56.12. Teammate Aniston O’Neil also competed in the event, finishing 14th in 1:00.66. In the girls discus, Laney Caskey placed 19th with a throw of 101-11.

Freshman Shaydyn Rasby advanced to the finals in the girls 100-meter hurdles, qualifying with a prelim time of 14.96. She will compete again on Thursday.

Chase County brought a large contingent to Omaha, competing in six boys’ events. Lukas Fries ran 15.38 in the 110-meter hurdles, missing out on finals, and placed 15th in high jump (6’0”), while James Bomba finished 17th (5’10”). Camron Lempke ran the 400 meters in 52.10 for 15th place, and Haven Hauxwell turned in a 10:02.41 in the 3200 meters, also good for 15th. Noah Rau took 11th in the shot put with a throw of 49-3, and the boys 4x800-meter relay finished 16th.

The Chase County girls saw action in multiple sprints and field events. Sisters Riley and Hayley Rusher competed in the 100 and 200 meters, but did not advance to finals. Riley posted times of 12.60 and 26.07, while Hayley ran 12.68 in both events. Alayna Smith finished 23rd in the 3200 meters with a time of 12:43, and Adelle Eskew leapt 16-04.5 in the long jump to place 15th. Hayley also earned a 10th-place finish in the pole vault with a 10-foot clearance. Miranda Spady placed 18th in the discus (103-03), and the Chase County girls 4x800 relay placed eighth with a time of 9:44.

Gothenburg also had a notable day. Tyler Hetz placed sixth in the boys 3200 meters with a time of 9:35.38. In the girls’ distance races, Scout Bell took 12th in the 3200 meters with an 11:34.96. Amaiya Carlson finished 11th in the girls discus with a 113-03 mark.

The Gothenburg boys 4x800-meter relay team placed seventh with a time of 8:10.94. In the boys 200 meters, Axtyn Jesseph and Jonathan Davis competed in prelims but did not advance to finals.

North Platte, Ogallala Shine on Day One of Nebraska State Track & Field Meet

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The North Platte City Council meeting began with a proposed ordinance aimed at addressing long-abandoned properties, which sparked the lengthiest discussion during the May 20th meeting, as officials opened the floor to public feedback on the measure.&nbsp;

Ordinance 4211, which would establish a vacant property registration system, was brought back after being tabled at the previous meeting. Mayor Brandon Kelliher emphasized that the session was intended solely for discussion, with no vote planned.&nbsp;

“We wanted to give the public an opportunity to comment,” Kelliher said, noting that about 10 residents spoke during the hearing. “Many of them were thoughtful, had questions, and we were able to clarify a few misunderstandings.”&nbsp;

The ordinance targets properties that have been left unattended, often due to unresolved estates when owners pass away. Kelliher acknowledged the difficulty of balancing property rights with neighborhood well-being, especially when abandoned homes are infested or hazardous.&nbsp;

“A big part of this discussion is you don't want to run across the property rights of an owner who isn't taking care of their property,” Kelliher said, “but the neighbors also have some rights in this as well. And so, you have we have to try to find balance.”&nbsp;

A revised version of the ordinance is expected to be returned for council consideration at a future meeting.&nbsp;

The Council also approved two ordinances that move forward the long-term expansion of Francis Street, a project expected to improve traffic flow and encourage economic development on the city’s east side.&nbsp;

Ordinance 4204, passed on its third reading, creates a new paving district to extend Francis Street from Tabor Avenue to Bryan Avenue.&nbsp;

“This is an ordinance for the beginning of the extension of Francis Street,” Kelliher noted. “Francis Street is the one that runs kind of across the one-ways by McDonald's, down by the edge of the mall, and behind Walmart… right now, it kind of ends on the eastern head stop on the east of the town. This little piece right here will extend it about a block and a half because the homeless shelter and that organization are going to build some housing right there on that corner — well, what will be a corner.”&nbsp;

The council also approved Ordinance 4208, which advances the next segment of the Francis Street project, stretching the road behind the post office and eventually out to Newberry Access at Golden Road.&nbsp;

“Nothing’s going to happen there next week,” Kelliher added, “but over the next few years, what you have to do is set your community up for success in the future… It’s going to be a great deal for the town in the long run.”&nbsp;

Items 9 and 10 were removed from the meeting agenda for further work and will be considered at a later date.&nbsp;

North Platte City Council Recap with Mayor Brandon Kelliher (May 20th, 2025)

LAKE McCONAUGHY, Neb - As we head into peak camping and fishing season at Lake McConaughy, here’s your latest report brought to you by Sphaun’s Marine in Big Springs and Buzz’s Marine in Kearney, your go-to boating experts for a safe and enjoyable summer on the water.

Lake Conditions – May 16, 2025
Lake McConaughy is currently sitting at 61% capacity, with water temperatures hovering around 52°F. While it’s a bit chilly for swimming just yet, anglers are enjoying productive days on the lake, especially those chasing walleye, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

Upcoming Tournaments
Get ready for a big week of competitive angling:

These events promise exciting action and will bring top-tier anglers from across the region to our waters.

Camping &amp; Reservations
Camping season is officially here! Superintendent Patrick Schnell reminds visitors that dry conditions have prompted a statewide burn ban in Nebraska. This means no wood-burning campfires, but propane grills and fire pits are still allowed—just no open flames involving wood.

Reservation season kicked off May 20, so now’s the time to plan your Memorial Day Weekend getaway.

Weather Watch &amp; Safety
A severe thunderstorm recently swept through the area, producing 50–70 mph winds. There is still storm debris—including fallen limbs—in many areas. Crews are hard at work cleaning up, but visitors should remain cautious.

All four docks at Lake McConaughy were pulled on May 15 due to sustained high winds and forecasts. Docks will remain out any time gusts are expected to exceed 30–40 mph for safety. Keep an eye on the weather before heading out, and be prepared for sudden changes.

Free Park Entry Day – May 17
Don’t forget—Saturday, May 17 is Free Park Entry Day in Nebraska. No park entry permit is required at any state park. Fishing is also free, although all other regulations still apply. It’s a perfect time to explore the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

From Superintendent Patrick Schnell and our partners at Sphan’s Marine and Buzz’s Marine, have a safe and enjoyable time at the lake. Respect the weather, follow fire safety guidelines, and enjoy everything Lake McConaughy has to offer!

Lake Mac Report (Weekend of May 16, 2025)

KEITH COUNTY, Neb. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the start of a new sign-up period for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and Nebraska Game and Parks is jumping in with a suite of incentives aimed at encouraging landowners to enroll.

The general and continuous CRP sign-up began Monday and will run through June 6. Biologist Addie Piernicky with Nebraska Game and Parks says this year’s sign-up is especially important for boosting habitat in key areas across the state.

“We’ve been waiting for this year,” Piernicky said in an interview. “We have a bunch of incentives through the Nebraska Game and Park Commission, especially in areas we’ve identified as critical pheasant habitat.”

CRP is a voluntary program that compensates agricultural producers for removing environmentally sensitive land from production and planting species that improve environmental health. Nebraska Game and Parks is working to sweeten the deal for landowners, offering targeted incentive payments in counties like Keith, Perkins, and across Southwest Nebraska.

“If you enroll in CRP and agree to five years of public access through the Open Fields and Waters program, you could qualify for a $75 per-acre signing incentive payment through our pheasant plan,” Piernicky said.

The incentives aren’t limited to public access participants. Game and Parks offers additional support for seeding and land preparation, even for those not participating in access programs.

“We have incentives just to say thank you for enrolling in CRP,” Piernicky added.

The state’s conservation push also includes the Nebraska Community Access Partnership program, which provides a one-time bonus for landowners opening their CRP or rangeland to walk-in public access. Eligible landowners in Keith, Garden,&nbsp;Deuel, and Arthur counties can receive up to $100 per acre in total bonuses, depending on land type and location.

“We tell people, ‘farm the best and conserve the rest,’” Piernicky said. “We know where those acres are that just aren’t producing for you. With CRP, you can make them work for wildlife and for your bottom line.”

Game and Parks also offers technical assistance. A team of biologists, including Madison Fell and new farm bill biologist Hayley in Sidney, are available to help landowners navigate the programs.

A notable new CRP practice gaining traction is the “prairie strips” initiative, which allows producers to convert marginal areas like pivot corners into diverse plantings of grasses and wildflowers. These strips are not only habitat-friendly but also producer-friendly: they’re driveable during harvest and can qualify for up to a 20% increase in annual CRP payments.

With high sand content in many soils across Nebraska, Piernicky said the prairie strips program has resulted in a significant boost in payments for participants.

“People are really seeing a bump in what they’re earning annually,” she said.

Landowners interested in enrolling or learning more about incentives can contact Nebraska Game and Parks biologists in their area.

“Give us a shout,” Piernicky said. “We’re here to help.”

<a href="https://nebraskapf.com/nebraska-hunting/">Get more information here</a>

📺​ CRP Continuous CRP Sign Up Offering Landowner Incentives for CRP and Public Access, Interview with Addie Piernicky

POST PODCAST WITH DON ANDERSON, NORTH PLATTE POLICE CHAPLIN

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — As part of National Police Week, the North Platte Police Department will hold a memorial service Wednesday to honor officers who have died in the line of duty.

The service will take place at 11 a.m. on May 14 at the Law Enforcement Memorial in Iron Horse Park. North Platte Police Chaplain Don Anderson, who spent nearly four decades in law enforcement in the Los Angeles area before moving to Nebraska, emphasized the importance of the annual observance.

“President Kennedy initiated this memorial to remember those in law enforcement who passed in the line of duty,” Anderson said. “There’s a national ceremony in Washington, D.C., where names are etched on a memorial wall and honored with events like a candlelight vigil.”

Anderson encouraged residents and businesses to show their support locally by displaying blue lights or tying blue ribbons to cars and storefronts during the week, which runs May 11–17.

“It’s not just about honoring the fallen—it’s about showing support for those who continue to serve,” Anderson said. “I’d like to see more than just the law enforcement community attend the memorial service. It’s open to the public, and it’s a powerful, humbling experience to reflect on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our safety.”

🎙️​Memorial Service Planned in North Platte for National Police Week

OGALLALA, Neb. (May 9, 2025)&nbsp;— As spring continues to unfold across western Nebraska, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are flocking to Lake McConaughy—Nebraska’s largest reservoir—for prime fishing, camping, and early-season recreation.&nbsp;

Post-spawn activity has shifted walleye into deeper water, but according to recent reports, anglers are still having success. Smallmouth bass activity has been particularly strong, with excellent results recorded at two recent fishing tournaments.&nbsp;

Water conditions remain favorable heading into mid-May. The current water level at Lake McConaughy sits at 3,239.2 feet elevation, equating to 1,069,200 acre-feet, or roughly 61.3% of the reservoir’s total capacity.&nbsp;

Shower houses are now in service at several major recreation areas, including Cedar View, Arthur Bay, and Lake Ogallala. Additional facilities at Lone Eagle, Little Thunder, and Martin Bay are expected to open soon, pending water quality test results.&nbsp;

All fish cleaning stations around the lake are open for use, and docks have been installed at multiple ramps including Diver’s Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.&nbsp;

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds campers that&nbsp;reservation season begins May 20, and&nbsp;advance reservations are required&nbsp;for overnight stays at Lake McConaughy throughout the summer. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp;

A temporary&nbsp;campfire ban&nbsp;remains in effect for Nebraska state recreation areas in central and western parts of the state—including Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala—through&nbsp;May 10&nbsp;due to fire safety concerns.&nbsp;

The most recent water temperature reading at the dam was&nbsp;50 degrees Fahrenheit, signaling that peak fishing conditions are just around the corner.&nbsp;

Several upcoming events are scheduled around the reservoir:&nbsp;

Lake McConaughy, located just north of Ogallala, continues to be a top destination for outdoor recreation in the Midwest. For updates on lake conditions, camping, and events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://visitkeithcounty.com/">VisitKeithCounty.com</a>.&nbsp;

Information provided by Visit Keith County and the Keith County Visitors Committee.&nbsp;

Lake Mac Report, May 9 2025

Derek Beck spoke with UNL Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson and 4H'r Makynzi Smith about Agriculture Education Kits that the Extension would like to purchase to share with educators from Lincoln County. Specifically, they're trying to raise money during North Platte Giving Day, donate at www.northplattegiving.org

North Platte Giving Day - Lincoln County 4H looking to buy Agriculture Kits for educators (Podcast)

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The North Platte Children’s Museum is gearing up for a major fundraising push during North Platte Giving Day on May 7, hoping to raise at least $5,000 to kick off a capital campaign for a new facility.

The museum, a local staple for over 25 years, is one of 74 Lincoln County nonprofits participating in the annual day of giving. Early donations are already being accepted at <a href="https://www.northplattegiving.org">northplattegiving.org</a>.

“Our goal this year is to raise at least $5,000, which will launch a much larger capital campaign to fund a new building,” said Nelson Jett, a board member for the museum. “Our current location has served us well, but it’s aging and in constant need of repairs. We hope to relocate within the next three to five years.”

Gena Cullinan, an ex-officio board member, emphasized the museum's historical value and its importance for families in the area.

“The museum was started about 26 years ago by a group of dedicated community members who wanted a place where children could explore and learn through play,” Cullinan said. “Today, we’re seeing growth in North Platte, and we want to match that growth by expanding what the museum offers.”

She said future plans include more STEM-focused exhibits and activities for older elementary students, transforming the museum into a year-round educational destination for families.

To raise awareness, the museum will host a free open house on May 6 from 4 to 7 p.m. at its current location, 314 North Jeffers. The event will include music demonstrations, a scavenger hunt, hot cookie decorating, and opportunities to donate or set up recurring contributions.

“The children’s museum is one of the first things young families look for when moving to a new community,” Cullinan said. “This is about building something that inspires learning and supports our growing city.”

For more information or to donate, visit <a href="https://www.northplattegiving.org">northplattegiving.org</a>.

Children’s Museum Launches Fundraising Effort for New Facility During Giving Day

North Platte, Neb. — Backyard poultry producers and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of flock health, nutrition, housing, and economics during a two-day seminar hosted by Nebraska Extension.

The seminar will be held May 2 in Kearney at the Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th Street, and May 3 in North Platte at the West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center, 402 West State Farm Road. Both events run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the North Platte seminar will also be available online via webinar.

PODCAST with Extension Educator Randy Saner (Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)

The seminar will feature presentations from poultry and agricultural experts:

The goal of the seminar is to equip attendees with knowledge and tools to improve disease management and sustainable practices for backyard poultry operations.

The $25 registration fee includes a meal for in-person attendees and access for webinar participants.

Backyard Poultry Seminar Set for May 3 in North Platte (PODCAST)

Spanish version of this story at bottom of page

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Downtown North Platte will come alive with music, dancing and family-friendly fun this Saturday, May 3, as Hope Esperanza hosts its 3rd Annual Cinco De Mayo Celebration.

LISTEN TO NORTH PLATTE KUBOTA PODCAST&nbsp;

The event will run from 1 to 6 p.m. on the bricks between 5th Street and Dewey and is free to attend.

“There’s gonna be a lot of things for families,” said Maria Rodriguez of Hope Esperanza. “We will have piñatas every 30 minutes—16 in total—and a DJ will be there keeping the energy up all afternoon.”

A folk dance group from Hastings will perform during the festivities, and children can enjoy games, face painting and more. Crowd favorites like the chili eating contest and the pan walk are set to return, with Lincoln County Sheriff Jerome Kramer among the brave contestants taking on the hot chili challenge.

Food will also be available, with Alicia’s Pupusas providing authentic eats for guests throughout the event.

In addition to the celebration, attendees can support Hope Esperanza by purchasing raffle tickets, which are being sold at Fresh Foods on East 4th Street. Tickets will be available Friday, April 25&nbsp; from 3 to 5 p.m. and again on Saturday, April 26 from 1 to 3 p.m.

“They’re $5 for one or five tickets for $20,” Rodriguez said. “We have some amazing prizes this year.”

Raffle items include donations from Noel’s Food, San Pedro’s, Wild Bill’s, and Sustainable Beef, as well as gift cards to Margaritas, movie tickets from Golden Cinema, a donation from Ashley’s Home Store, and even a set of tires.

Rodriguez encourages families to come out and celebrate. “It’ll just be a fun night for the family to come out,” she said.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hope4np">Hope Esperanza’s Facebook page</a>.

Hope Esperanza organizará la 3ª Celebración Anual del Cinco de Mayo en el centro de North Platte

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — El centro de North Platte se llenará de música, baile y diversión familiar este sábado 3 de mayo, cuando Hope Esperanza lleve a cabo su tercera Celebración Anual del Cinco de Mayo.

El evento se realizará de 1 p.m. a 6 p.m. sobre los ladrillos entre la 5ª Calle y Dewey, y la entrada será gratuita.

“Va a haber muchas cosas para las familias,” dijo María Rodríguez de Hope Esperanza. “Tendremos piñatas cada 30 minutos—16 en total—y también estará un DJ animando durante toda la tarde.”

Un grupo de danza folclórica de Hastings se presentará durante las festividades, y los niños podrán disfrutar de juegos, pintura de caritas y mucho más. Regresan los favoritos del público como el concurso de comer chile picante y la caminata con pan. El alguacil del condado de Lincoln, Jerome Kramer, será uno de los valientes concursantes en el reto del chile picante.

También habrá comida disponible, cortesía de Alicia’s Pupusas, que ofrecerá deliciosos platillos auténticos durante todo el evento.

Además de la celebración, los asistentes pueden apoyar a Hope Esperanza comprando boletos para una rifa, que se estarán vendiendo en Fresh Foods en la calle East 4th. Los boletos estarán disponibles el viernes de 3 a 5 p.m. y nuevamente el sábado de 1 a 3 p.m.

“Son $5 por un boleto o cinco boletos por $20,” dijo Rodríguez. “Tenemos premios increíbles este año.”

Los premios incluyen donaciones de Noel’s Food, San Pedro’s, Wild Bill’s y Sustainable Beef, así como tarjetas de regalo para Margaritas, entradas para el cine Golden Cinema, una donación de Ashley’s Home Store y hasta un juego de llantas.

Rodríguez invita a todas las familias a unirse a la celebración. “Va a ser una noche divertida para que salga toda la familia,” expresó.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hope4np">Para más información, visite la página de Facebook de Hope Esperanza.</a>

Hope Esperanza to Host 3rd Annual Cinco De Mayo Celebration in Downtown North Platte May 3rd (PODCAST)

The Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report — your go-to source for the latest news, water conditions, and fishing action from Nebraska’s largest lake, Lake McConaughy.

First things first:&nbsp;If you’re having boat motor trouble, help is just down the road.&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;is a&nbsp;Mercury Marine Premier Dealer&nbsp;with&nbsp;Mercury-certified technicians&nbsp;who are ready to get you back on the water fast. Give them a call at&nbsp;308-889-3531.

Now for the fishing: Did you know that of the 125 Master Angler walleye caught across Nebraska last year, a whopping&nbsp;90 came from Lake McConaughy? And that’s not all — the lake claimed top honors with both the&nbsp;heaviest&nbsp;(15 lbs 2 oz) and&nbsp;longest&nbsp;(32") walleye. So far this year,&nbsp;three more 32-inchers&nbsp;have been caught, and just this week there were&nbsp;multiple reports of 10+ pound walleye&nbsp;being reeled in. The spring bite is on!

Boat &amp; Shore Fishing Update:Anglers trolling large crankbaits along the face of Kingsley Dam are finding success, while bank anglers are doing well with jigs and crankbaits.&nbsp;Thanks to Jake Fahrenbruch&nbsp;for the latest report from the water.

Docks are now in&nbsp;at Divers Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both the north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.

Boater Reminder:From sunset to sunrise through&nbsp;April 30, boats within 30 yards of Kingsley Dam must travel&nbsp;counter-clockwise&nbsp;(south-to-north) due to spawning regulations.&nbsp;All boats must stay at least 200 feet away&nbsp;from the dam's outlet and morning glory structures.

Coming Up:Don’t miss the&nbsp;Catfish Classic Tournament&nbsp;next&nbsp;Saturday, May 3&nbsp;at Lake McConaughy. For more details, contact&nbsp;Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321.

That wraps up this week’s&nbsp;Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report. Catch more updates at&nbsp;SandhillsPost.com. This report is brought to you by&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;and our friends at&nbsp;Buzz’s Marine in Kearney.

Lake Mac Report for Weekend of April 25th, 2025

Today on the Adams Bank &amp; Trust SANDHILLS SPOTLIGHT, Derek talks with Bull Riders Mason Ward and Hayden Harris about the Buckin' Battle &amp; Bash at the D &amp; N Event Center in North Platte on Friday and Saturday evening.&nbsp;

Paxton Gordon talks about&nbsp;Bandages &amp; Badges Event withTami, Paul &amp; Ashley next week at PALS Brewing. This is a food fundraiser for Salvation Army.

Bob Lantis with Nebraskaland Days, Buffalo Bill Rodeo Preview with Derek, and Jeff Smeltzer with Mid Plains Community College joins the program. Plus News, Community Calendar, Funeral Announcements and What's For Sale. <a href="https://z935country.com/">Listen Online HERE.</a>&nbsp;

Today on Sandhills Spotlight on Z 93.5 Country (May 22nd)

The Hot Sheets: May 22, 2025

OGALLALA, Neb. — Officials in Keith County have issued a ban on all open burning and the sale and discharge of fireworks due to heightened wildfire risks stemming from ongoing dry conditions.

The Keith County Board of Commissioners approved the emergency resolutions Tuesday following recommendations from local fire chiefs. The fire ban is in effect until further notice and applies across the county, including popular recreation areas like Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala.

“No open fires or fire pits are allowed,” officials said, noting that the ban includes campfires and beach fires. Propane-fueled stoves and fire pits remain permitted, according to Nebraska Game and Parks.

Fireworks are also restricted under the new measures. While discharge of fireworks is already prohibited in state recreation areas, the sale and use of fireworks throughout Keith County is now banned.

While the state wide burn ban expired yesterday authorities urge residents and visitors to exercise caution and comply with the restrictions to prevent potential wildfires.

Keith County bans open Burning, Fireworks amid Wildfire risk

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;–&nbsp;Today, Governor Jim Pillen signed into law LB526, introduced on his behalf by Senator Mike Jacobson. The legislation helps to preserve electrical service to homes, businesses and other Nebraska customers, by establishing requirements for cryptocurrency mining operations. In addition to notifying power utilities in advance, the bill also provides for payment or a letter of credit covering costs associated with potential infrastructure upgrades.

"With the opportunity in expanding this emerging industry, comes responsibility. This bill provides the guardrails needed to ensure that our electrical grid can handle the increased demand. By requiring mining operations to contribute to grid upgrades and be transparent about their energy use, we're protecting our infrastructure,” said Gov. Pillen.&nbsp;

In addition to the provisions above, the bill allows utilities to impose terms and conditions on these operations, such as requiring them to shut down during times of peak electrical demand and requiring that mining operations report annually on their energy consumption.

Gov. Pillen Signs Bill to Protect Power Grid from Cryptocurrency Operation Use

The Hot Sheets: May 21, 2025

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Four people were arrested Thursday night after North Platte police executed a search warrant at a home suspected of drug activity, uncovering methamphetamine, firearms and cash, authorities said.

Officers served the warrant around 10:11 p.m. at a residence located at 502 S. Cottonwood Street, following credible information about drug use and distribution at the address, according to a statement from the North Platte Police Department.

Inside the home, officers seized approximately 5 ½ ounces of methamphetamine, 5 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, two firearms and more than $800 in cash. The residence is located within 1,000 feet of a school, police said.

Four individuals were taken into custody and booked into the Lincoln County Detention Center.

Cynthia Valentine, 34, was charged with multiple felonies including two counts of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute—one for the quantity involved and another for proximity to a school—both Class 1B felonies. She also faces charges for money and controlled substance violations, a Class IV felony, and maintaining a drug house, a Class III misdemeanor.

Richard Valentine, 57, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, a Class IV felony.

Todd Wickware, 55, faces similar charges to Cynthia Valentine, including two Class 1B felonies for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and proximity to a school. He was also charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, a Class 1D felony, and maintaining a drug house.

Alex Estrada, 27, was charged with obstructing a peace officer, a Class I misdemeanor.

Four Arrested in North Platte Drug Bust; Meth, Firearms Seized Near School

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — As the 80’s Professional Baseball team returns to North Platte for its season in the Pecos League, organizers are asking the community to step up and support the players by serving as host families.&nbsp;

The team is in need of local households willing to provide players with a place to eat, shower, and sleep during their stay in North Platte for home games. Most players are young adults and described by organizers as responsible and respectful.&nbsp;

“They’re great young men, and with their demanding schedule, you’ll hardly see them during the day,” said team coordinator Nikki Barker. “They spend most of their time training or playing in the evenings.”&nbsp;

Families interested in hosting or learning more about the commitment can contact Barker at 308-534-3879.&nbsp;

The North Platte team is part of the independent Pecos League, which features teams across the western and southern U.S. and provides a platform for aspiring professional players.&nbsp;

The First games begin next Tuesday on the road, and the first home game for the 80’s is Next Friday, May 30 vs. Garden City, Kansas.&nbsp;

North Platte’s 80’s Baseball Team Seeks Host Families Ahead of Pecos League Home Opener

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — A North Platte man was sentenced Monday to up to 30 years in prison in connection with the 2023 shooting of a 12-year-old child.

Brandon Girkin, 38, was arrested in December 2023 and pleaded no contest in March to four felony charges, including use of a firearm to commit a felony, second-degree assault, and two counts of attempted assault on a peace officer.

On Monday in Lincoln County District Court, Girkin was sentenced to between 20 and 30 years for the firearm charge, 8 to 13 years for the assault charge, and 10 to 15 years for each of the attempted assault on a peace officer charges. All sentences will run concurrently.

The shooting prompted a large law enforcement response in North Platte and left the young victim hospitalized. Girkin was taken into custody without further incident.

North Platte man sentenced to up to 30 years in 2023 shooting of 12-year-old

The Hot Sheets: May 20, 2025

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;A historic two-year run by the 22nd-ranked Nebraska Kearney women's tennis team came to and with a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/boxscore.aspx?path=wten&amp;id=8395">4-2 loss</a>&nbsp;to 21st-ranked Azusa Pacific (Calif.) in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncaa.com/brackets/tennis-women/d2/2025">NCAA Sweet 16</a>&nbsp;Wednesday afternoon in Altamonte Springs, Fla.

Over the last two seasons UNK went 41-12 in duals, won two MIAA regular season titles, and reached the NCAA Sweet 16 twice. Last year, the Lopers beat Azusa, 4-1, to reach the Elite Eight for the first time in program history. Azusa (21-4) will face defending national champion Nova Southeastern (Fla.) Thursday morning in this year's Elite 8.&nbsp;Today's rematch came in 90-degree weather with 50% humidity. There were many of the same names from last year's dual but only one rematch (four singles) with the Cougars getting things started with a close win in doubles.

At two, APU won 6-0 with UNK having a a big lead at three and the Cougars the same at one. However, both sides rallied so the team point was up for grabs. But the Cougars&nbsp;literally hung on at one (7-6; 7-5) to go up 1-0&nbsp;with Lincoln redshirt junior&nbsp;Clare Plachy&nbsp;and Venezuelan sophomore&nbsp;Fabiana Gamboa&nbsp;recording a 6-4 decision at three.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 50th-ranked tandem of Julia Jordan and Vini Bautista won at one over 17th-ranked&nbsp;Narindra Ranaivo&nbsp;(Madagascar) and&nbsp;Tanya Midzi&nbsp;(Zimbabwe). Last year, Jordan and Bautista won at two, but UNK was victorious at three, 7-5, and, ironically, 7-6 (7-5) at one to grab the point.&nbsp;APU won in straight sets at six singles (-1, -1) to take a 2-0 lead with the 13th-ranked Gamboa doing the same at one (-2, -2) to get UNK (20-6) on the board. Next, the Cougs won in straight sets at five (-4, -3) with Colorado senior&nbsp;Alexis Bernthal&nbsp;sweeping Kathrine Ngyuen at four (-1, -1). Last year, this match went unfinished&nbsp;with Bernthal up a set.

Finally, the dual came down to two and three singles with Midzi winning her first set at five (7-5) and the 35th-ranked Ranaivo doing the same at two (7-6; 8-6). However, West Region Rookie of the Year Stina Larsson (Sweden) rallied past Midzi to clinch the dual (-2, -2) with Bautista up 4-0 in the third over Ranaivo after taking set two, 6-3.UNK loses Bernthal, Hatouka and Ranaivo to graduation. They combined for 438 wins over the past four years, and off the court, each maintained well over a 3.5&nbsp;GPA.&nbsp; &nbsp;

#21 Cougars turn the tables, beat the #22 Lopers in the Sweet 16

Area District Boy's Golf Class B team results

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Nebraska’s Luke Broderick and Devin Nunez received All-Big Ten honors, the conference office announced Tuesday morning.

Broderick was named All-Big Ten Second Team, while Nunez was selected to the All-Big Ten Freshman Team.

Broderick is 3-2 on the season in 24 relief appearances and leads the Big Ten with 11 saves, which is tied for ninth nationally. The junior’s 11 saves ranks eighth-most by an NU reliever in a season, one shy of tying Josh Roeder (2014) in seventh. Broderick has totaled a 4.13 ERA and 37 strikeouts in 28.1 innings while limiting opposing hitters to a .240 batting average.

Nunez has appeared in 35 games, including 26 starts, and is hitting a team-best .308 at the plate for the Huskers this season. The freshman has tallied a double, four home runs, 20 RBI and scored 18 times to go with 10 multi-hit games and four multi-RBI contests in his first season with the Huskers.

Nunez was named the Big Ten’s Freshman of the Week earlier this season after leading the Huskers at the Frisco Classic with a home run, three RBI, four runs scored and 7-for-14 effort at the plate.

Also announced on Tuesday morning, Dylan Carey was selected as Nebraska’s recipient of the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award.

Broderick, Nunez receive All-Big Ten accolades

Robby Bolin came through in the clutch, hitting a walk-off RBI single to give the Huskers a 5-4 win in 10 innings against Michigan State at the Big Ten Baseball Tournament on Tuesday night in Omaha.

Nebraska (29-27) scored five runs on 12 hits and an error, while Michigan State (28-26) totaled four runs, seven hits and two errors.

Case Sanderson was 3-for-5 with two RBI, and Cayden Brumbaugh went 3-for-5 with a double and a run scored. Bolin drove in one run and scored once on a 2-for-4 night, while Riley Silva, Gabe Swansen and Will Jesske had one hit each.

Ty Horn allowed three runs on two hits with a pair of strikeouts and three walks in two innings of work. Tucker Timmerman tossed three innings in relief, allowing an unearned run on two hits with four strikeouts and a walk. Drew Christo dealt 1.2 scoreless innings with just one hit allowed.

Luke Broderick improved to 4-2 on the season after pitching 3.1 shutout frames. The junior struck out a pair of Spartans and allowed just two hits.

The Huskers and Spartans exchanged runs in the opening frame to send a 1-1 game into the second inning.&nbsp; A leadoff single and sacrifice bunt had a runner on second with one out in the top of the first for Michigan State. The Spartan plated the game’s first run of the night with an RBI double that was lined to the wall in right-center field.

Nebraska evened the game at one behind a pair of hits in the bottom of the first. Silva drilled a 1-2 pitch in the alley in left-center field, while Brumbaugh had a single ricochet off the bag at first to put runners on first and third with one out for the Big Red.

Swansen lifted a 1-2 pitch to right field for a sacrifice fly that scored Silva and locked the game at one.

Michigan State scored two runs without a hit or an error in the top of the second to take the lead back at 3-1. Three consecutive one-out walks loaded the bases for the Spartans, while a balk gave MSU a one-run lead. An RBI groundout to second after the balk doubled the lead to 3-1 through two innings.

The Spartans added a run in the top of the fifth inning to extend the lead to 4-1. A leadoff and a plunked batter with two outs had runners on first and second, before an infield single loaded the bases for MSU. An errant throw on a pickoff attempt at second allowed the runner on third to trot on home to stretch the lead to three.

Nebraska plated two runs with three hits and an error in the bottom of the sixth to climb back within 4-3. Consecutive singles from Brumbaugh and Swansen had runners on first and second with one out, while a wild relay throw advanced the duo to second and third.

Sanderson ripped an 0-1 pitch to center field for a two-RBI single to score Brumbaugh and Swansen and make it a 4-3 game after six innings.

Bolin led off the bottom of the ninth with a bunt single, before a sacrifice bunt laid down by Rhett Stokes moved the junior to second with one out. Joshua Overbeek lifted a two-out flyball to right field for what appeared to be the final out of the game, but a dropped ball allowed Bolin to score from second and tie the game at four.

Broderick retired the Spartans in order in the top of the 10th, setting up NU’s walk-off heroics in the bottom of the inning. Carey began the inning with a single through the left side and stole second base to put the go-ahead run at second with one out.

Consecutive swinging strikeouts had the Big Red down to their final out, before Bolin smacked the first pitch to center field for a walk-off single to give the Huskers a 5-4 win in 10 innings on Tuesday night.

Nebraska continues play in the Big Ten Tournament with a matchup on Friday night against top-seeded Oregon. First pitch between the Huskers and Ducks is set for 6 p.m. on BTN at Charles Schwab Field.

Bolin’s walk-off single lifts Huskers in extra-inning thriller

Area District Boy's Golf results from 5-19

Story by NU Athletic Communication

Nebraska softball pitcher and utility player Jordyn Bahl was named a Top 3 finalist for the USA Softball/ESPN Collegiate Player of the Year, the organization announced on Monday. Bahl is the first Husker to be a top-3 finalist for the award, and she is a top-3 finalist for the first time after being a three-time top-10 finalist.

The other two finalists are Arkansas’ Bri Ellis and Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady, the reigning Collegiate Player of the Year.&nbsp;

A Papillion, Neb., native, Bahl continues to rack up the accolades, as she was named both the Big Ten Player of the Year and the Big Ten Pitcher of the Year. She was the first player in the conference's history to earn both of those awards in the same season. She also was a member of the All-Big Ten first team. Bahl has also been a two-time national player of the week this spring, and she has won six Big Ten weekly awards, including five pitcher-of-the-week honors and one player-of-the-week award.

Bahl is the first Husker in school history to record 15 doubles and 15 home runs in the same season. She also became the second Husker to record 60+ runs, hits and RBIs in a season. Bahl has 23 home runs, 69 runs scored and 41 extra-base hits on the season, all of which are program-record marks. With 23 home runs and 25 wins in the circle, Bahl is one of five players in NCAA history to have 20+ home runs and wins in the same season.

At last weekend’s Baton Rouge Regional, Bahl went 5-for-5 with four home runs, seven walks, eight runs and seven RBIs at the plate, while going 2-0 in the circle, allowing just one run and two hits in 12.0 innings with 16 strikeouts.

At the plate, the junior has notched 69 runs, 76 hits, 66 RBIs, 16 doubles, 2 triples and 23 homers on a .475 batting average. She has only struck out 14 times and has a slugging percentage of 1.031 and an on-base percentage of .568.&nbsp;

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