GERING, Neb. — Human remains found on the north side of Scotts Bluff National Monument have been sent to Omaha for forensic testing, as investigators work to determine whether there may be a connection to the 2019 disappearance of Chance Englebert.

Officials have not identified the remains or released information regarding cause of death. The discovery was made over the weekend, prompting a coordinated response from local agencies.

Family members confirmed they were notified early Saturday morning following the discovery. Items recovered at the scene have been reported by the family to be consistent with belongings previously associated with Englebert.

Englebert, originally from Wyoming, went missing in 2019 after visiting family in Gering, Nebraska. The case has drawn attention in both states over the years, as family members and volunteers have continued to search for answers.

The remains are being transported to Omaha for examination through the Douglas County Coroner’s Office. Local and state law enforcement continue to coordinate on the investigation.

<i>This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.</i>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575556211800.png" alt="Chance Englebert" />
                        <figcaption>Chance Englebert</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>GERING, Neb. — Human remains found on the north side of Scotts Bluff National Monument have been sent to Omaha for forensic testing, as investigators work to determine whether there may be a connection to the 2019 disappearance of Chance Englebert.</p><p>Officials have not identified the remains or released information regarding cause of death. The discovery was made over the weekend, prompting a coordinated response from local agencies.</p><p>Family members confirmed they were notified early Saturday morning following the discovery. Items recovered at the scene have been reported by the family to be consistent with belongings previously associated with Englebert.</p><p>Englebert, originally from Wyoming, went missing in 2019 after visiting family in Gering, Nebraska. The case has drawn attention in both states over the years, as family members and volunteers have continued to search for answers.</p><p>The remains are being transported to Omaha for examination through the Douglas County Coroner’s Office. Local and state law enforcement continue to coordinate on the investigation.</p><p><i>This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.</i></p>

Remains Found Near Scotts Bluff National Monument Could Be Linked to Missing Man Chance Englebert

Nebraska high school students are once again setting the bar when it comes to the ACT.

According to the Nebraska Department of Education, the state’s class of 2025 earned an average composite score of 19.2 — slightly higher than last year’s 19.1 — and the highest in the nation among states that require all students to take the test.

The ACT measures college readiness in English, math, reading, and science. Nebraska is one of just a handful of states that require every high school junior to take the exam as part of the Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System. Because every student participates — not just those planning to go to college — Nebraska’s average score gives a more complete picture of how students are performing statewide.

Nationally, the average ACT score stayed flat this year at 19.4. But that number can be misleading — only about a third of U.S. students actually take the test. In states where the ACT is optional, scores often skew higher because they mostly reflect college-bound students.

When looking just at states with 100% participation, Nebraska stands out. The average among those states was 18.2, a full point below Nebraska’s score.

State officials say the results show that Nebraska students continue to outperform their peers in similar testing programs across the country.

Nebraska’s students posted solid results across every subject area:

Those numbers mark small but steady gains in most subjects compared to last year.

Education leaders say the consistent performance reflects both the strength of Nebraska schools and the state’s commitment to preparing all students for life after high school — whether that’s college, career training, or entering the workforce.

However, the state has seen a gradual decline in ACT scores over the past few years, mirroring national trends. In 2021, Nebraska’s average was around 20.0 before dipping below 19.5 in recent years.

Experts point out that students who complete a full college-prep curriculum — courses like four years of English and three or more years each of math, science, and social studies — score several points higher on average than those who do not. That gap highlights the importance of making rigorous coursework accessible to every student.

While Nebraska’s scores may not top every state nationwide, they do lead among the group that tests every student — a strong showing that speaks to the state’s overall academic performance.

As Nebraska Education Commissioner Brian Maher said in a statement, “Our students continue to show resilience and achievement that make Nebraska proud.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760639248526.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Nebraska high school students are once again setting the bar when it comes to the ACT.</p><p>According to the Nebraska Department of Education, the state’s class of 2025 earned an average composite score of 19.2 — slightly higher than last year’s 19.1 — and the highest in the nation among states that require all students to take the test.</p><p>The ACT measures college readiness in English, math, reading, and science. Nebraska is one of just a handful of states that require every high school junior to take the exam as part of the Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System. Because every student participates — not just those planning to go to college — Nebraska’s average score gives a more complete picture of how students are performing statewide.</p><h2>How Nebraska Compares</h2><p>Nationally, the average ACT score stayed flat this year at 19.4. But that number can be misleading — only about a third of U.S. students actually take the test. In states where the ACT is optional, scores often skew higher because they mostly reflect college-bound students.</p><p>When looking just at states with 100% participation, Nebraska stands out. The average among those states was 18.2, a full point below Nebraska’s score.</p><p>State officials say the results show that Nebraska students continue to outperform their peers in similar testing programs across the country.</p><h2>Breaking Down the Numbers</h2><p>Nebraska’s students posted solid results across every subject area:</p><ul>
                        <li>English: 18.2
</li><li>Math: 18.9
</li><li>Reading: 19.6
</li><li>Science: 19.4
</li>
                    </ul><p>Those numbers mark small but steady gains in most subjects compared to last year.</p><h2>What It Means</h2><p>Education leaders say the consistent performance reflects both the strength of Nebraska schools and the state’s commitment to preparing all students for life after high school — whether that’s college, career training, or entering the workforce.</p><p>However, the state has seen a gradual decline in ACT scores over the past few years, mirroring national trends. In 2021, Nebraska’s average was around 20.0 before dipping below 19.5 in recent years.</p><p>Experts point out that students who complete a full college-prep curriculum — courses like four years of English and three or more years each of math, science, and social studies — score several points higher on average than those who do not. That gap highlights the importance of making rigorous coursework accessible to every student.</p><h2>The Big Picture</h2><p>While Nebraska’s scores may not top every state nationwide, they do lead among the group that tests every student — a strong showing that speaks to the state’s overall academic performance.</p><p>As Nebraska Education Commissioner Brian Maher said in a statement, “Our students continue to show resilience and achievement that make Nebraska proud.”</p>

Nebraska Students Lead Nation Among States That Test All Students on ACT

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

WASHINGTON — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order Wednesday, blocking the Trump administration from moving forward with the thousands of layoffs it initiated after the government shutdown began Oct. 1, as well as any others that officials might want to carry out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The hearing in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California took place at the same time White House budget director Russ Vought appeared on the conservative Charlie Kirk podcast to preview his next steps.

Vought warned the initial Reductions in Force, the technical term for a layoff notice, were just “a snapshot” and that as many as 10,000 federal workers would lose their jobs if the shutdown drags on.

“We’re going to keep those RIFs rolling throughout this shutdown because we think it’s important to stay on offense for the American taxpayer and the American people,” Vought said. “We want to be very aggressive where we can be in shuttering the bureaucracy, not just the funding, but the bureaucracy.”

Judge Susan Illston said during the hearing that she granted the temporary restraining order because Trump administration officials had “taken advantage of the lapse in government spending, government functioning to assume that all bets are off, that the laws don’t apply to them anymore and that they can impose the structures that they like on the government situation that they don’t like.”&nbsp;

Illston said laws and regulations still apply during a shutdown and that, by all appearances, the Trump administration’s actions in the case are politically motivated.&nbsp;

“Things are being done before they’re thought through — very much ready, fire, aim,” Illston said.

The ruling will put the approximately 4,000 layoffs noticed during the shutdown on hold as the court case proceeds.&nbsp;

DOJ unprepared to speak on merits of case

Elizabeth Hedges, a Justice Department attorney arguing the case on behalf of the Trump administration, said several times during the brief hearing she wasn’t prepared to speak about the merits of the case — a position that confounded the judge, who gave Hedges several chances to reverse course.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We may be able to address the merits at the next stage,” Hedges said, after telling Illston she would need to check with others before making any statements about why the administration believes its actions are legal.&nbsp;

Danielle Leonard, an attorney representing the labor unions that brought the lawsuit, urged the judge to grant a temporary restraining order for all the departments and agencies that make up the executive branch, not just those that have announced RIFs.

Leonard said she believes Trump administration officials have decided how many additional federal employees to lay off during the shutdown, but have opted not to share that information with the court.

“The decision has been made, it’s just a question of implementation and timing,” Leonard said, around the same time Vought was giving his podcast interview.&nbsp;

Illston, who was nominated by former President Bill Clinton, said at the end of the hearing she expected the attorneys to find a day in the coming weeks when they can attend a hearing on the next stage, which would be a preliminary injunction.

On the other side of the country, Republicans and Democrats continued to spar on Capitol Hill over the reasons for the shutdown, as the Senate failed for a ninth time to advance a short-term government spending bill.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00572.htm" target="_blank">51-44 vote</a>&nbsp;was nearly identical to the others that have taken place since mid-September, and neither side appeared inclined to make concessions or even try to negotiate.&nbsp;

Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, both Democrats, and Maine independent Sen. Angus King voted with Republicans to advance the bill. Kentucky GOP Sen. Rand Paul voted no.

Democrats maintain there must be a bipartisan deal to extend the enhanced tax credits that are set to expire at the end of this year for people who get their health insurance from the Affordable Care Act Marketplace.&nbsp;

GOP leaders said they are willing to begin negotiations on that issue, but only after Democrats vote to advance the stopgap bill that would fund government through Nov. 21.&nbsp;

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/chance-government-shutdown-rises-us-senate-fails-advance-spending-bill" target="_blank">voted mostly along party</a>&nbsp;lines to approve the legislation in mid-September, but it has remained stalled in the Senate ever since, unable to garner the 60 votes needed to advance toward final passage. Republicans control the chamber with 53 seats.

Congress needs to approve the stopgap bill since it, once again, failed to approve all 12 of the full-year government funding bills by the Oct. 1 start of the new fiscal year.

The only other way to end the funding lapse would be for both chambers to reach a broadly bipartisan consensus on all of those appropriations bills.&nbsp;

The layoffs initiated by the Trump administration during the shutdown were detailed further on Tuesday in court filings from the labor unions’ attorneys as well as Trump administration officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stephen Billy, senior adviser at the Office of Management and Budget, wrote the number of layoff notices had changed since Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/substantial-layoffs-federal-workers-launched-trump-administration-amid-shutdown" target="_blank">when he outlined</a>&nbsp;the Reductions in Force to the court.

The numbers have fluctuated significantly for some departments, but not for all.&nbsp;

Federal workers at those departments have 60 days between when the notice was sent and when they will no longer have jobs, though a different standard is in place at the Energy Department and the Environmental Protection Agency.&nbsp;

Energy officials, the document says, “issued a general RIF notice informing 179 employees that they may receive a specific notice in the future if it is determined they will be part of any RIF. If so, that notice would provide the relevant notice period.”

But a spokesperson for the Energy Department emailed States Newsroom on Tuesday evening to confirm officials had issued RIF notices to workers in the Offices of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Clean Energy Demonstrations, State and Community Energy Programs and Minority Economic Impact.

“All these offices played a major role in the Biden administration’s war on American Energy,” the spokesperson wrote. “They oversaw billions of dollars in wasteful spending and massive regulatory overreach, resulting in more expensive and less reliable energy. These offices are being realigned to reflect the Trump administration’s commitment to advancing affordable, reliable, and secure energy for the American people and a more responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”

Further confusing the situation at the Energy Department, a footnote in the court document filed by Billy said that particular agency isn’t actually experiencing a lapse in funding.&nbsp;

The Billy court document said EPA officials sent 28 employees “intent to RIF” notices and will send formal RIF notices “to any affected employees at least 60 days prior to the effective date.”&nbsp;

A separate document, filed by Thomas J. Nagy Jr., deputy assistant secretary for Human Resources at HHS, said “data discrepancies and processing errors” led to 1,760 employees receiving layoff notices instead of the intended 982.

“Employees have been working since October 10, 2025, to rescind the notices that had been issued in error,” Nagy wrote.&nbsp;

Yolanda Jacobs, president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 2883, wrote in a brief to the court that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “issued RIF notices to approximately 1,300 employees, eliminating entire offices at the agency. Then, within 24 hours, the CDC rescinded approximately 700 of those RIF notices.”&nbsp;

Jacobs wrote the 600 CDC workers who received RIFs will officially lose their jobs on Dec. 8, even though they have already lost access to work email and computers.&nbsp;

“Many Union members have told me that they are experiencing serious mental health problems and have found it very difficult to get their work done, given all of the turmoil that they have experienced this year,” Jacobs wrote, referencing previous RIF notices and reinstatements. “Members have told me that they worry on a day-to-day basis about whether they will have a job the next day. They said that they have felt like the Trump Administration has been using them as bargaining chips this year.”

Jacobs wrote that the Trump administration has decided to lay off many human resources workers, which had blocked other workers who received RIFs from being able to get information about how to roll over their health insurance coverage.&nbsp;

During past RIFs, she wrote, workers had “access to the employment records, including paystubs and performance records, that they need for processing their separations,” but cannot since they are locked out of computer systems.&nbsp;

Rachel Gittleman, president of AFGE Local 252, which represents nearly 3,000 Education Department workers, wrote in a separate filing the layoffs will impact numerous programs, including civil rights, communications and outreach, elementary and secondary education, post secondary education, and special education and rehabilitative services.

“Receiving RIF notices has caused many employees enormous stress. A father of two young boys contacted me—he just moved into a new home and relies on his job to support his family,” Gittleman wrote. “He told me (he) doesn’t know what he will do next.”

Workers on maternity or disability leave also received layoff notices, “forcing them to job-hunt and face financial insecurity while managing newborns or health conditions,” she wrote.&nbsp;

Following past RIF notices, the department provided “career transitioning and counseling, benefits and retirement training, and access to other human resources and employee assistance programs.” But Gittleman wrote that isn’t happening this time.&nbsp;

Ashaki Robinson, regional vice president for AFGE Council 222, which represents nearly 5,000 HUD workers, said the layoff notices for that department will impact employees in Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Massachusetts, Puerto Rico, Texas and Washington, D.C., who manage a variety of programs.&nbsp;

“They are devastated that the RIF is happening and are very concerned about losing their incomes, health insurance coverage for themselves and dependents, and other employment benefits in 60 days, when they will be separated from employment,” Robinson wrote.&nbsp;

The hundreds of HUD workers who have received RIF notices, she wrote, were “targeted for termination not because of anything they did themselves, but because of decisions made by elected officials that may have been driven by politics.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759315687610.png" alt="Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
                        <figcaption>Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a></p><p>WASHINGTON — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order Wednesday, blocking the Trump administration from moving forward with the thousands of layoffs it initiated after the government shutdown began Oct. 1, as well as any others that officials might want to carry out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The hearing in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California took place at the same time White House budget director Russ Vought appeared on the conservative Charlie Kirk podcast to preview his next steps.</p><p>Vought warned the initial Reductions in Force, the technical term for a layoff notice, were just “a snapshot” and that as many as 10,000 federal workers would lose their jobs if the shutdown drags on.</p><p>“We’re going to keep those RIFs rolling throughout this shutdown because we think it’s important to stay on offense for the American taxpayer and the American people,” Vought said. “We want to be very aggressive where we can be in shuttering the bureaucracy, not just the funding, but the bureaucracy.”</p><p>Judge Susan Illston said during the hearing that she granted the temporary restraining order because Trump administration officials had “taken advantage of the lapse in government spending, government functioning to assume that all bets are off, that the laws don’t apply to them anymore and that they can impose the structures that they like on the government situation that they don’t like.”&nbsp;</p><p>Illston said laws and regulations still apply during a shutdown and that, by all appearances, the Trump administration’s actions in the case are politically motivated.&nbsp;</p><p>“Things are being done before they’re thought through — very much ready, fire, aim,” Illston said.</p><p>The ruling will put the approximately 4,000 layoffs noticed during the shutdown on hold as the court case proceeds.&nbsp;</p><h2>DOJ unprepared to speak on merits of case</h2><p>Elizabeth Hedges, a Justice Department attorney arguing the case on behalf of the Trump administration, said several times during the brief hearing she wasn’t prepared to speak about the merits of the case — a position that confounded the judge, who gave Hedges several chances to reverse course.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“We may be able to address the merits at the next stage,” Hedges said, after telling Illston she would need to check with others before making any statements about why the administration believes its actions are legal.&nbsp;</p><p>Danielle Leonard, an attorney representing the labor unions that brought the lawsuit, urged the judge to grant a temporary restraining order for all the departments and agencies that make up the executive branch, not just those that have announced RIFs.</p><p>Leonard said she believes Trump administration officials have decided how many additional federal employees to lay off during the shutdown, but have opted not to share that information with the court.</p><p>“The decision has been made, it’s just a question of implementation and timing,” Leonard said, around the same time Vought was giving his podcast interview.&nbsp;</p><p>Illston, who was nominated by former President Bill Clinton, said at the end of the hearing she expected the attorneys to find a day in the coming weeks when they can attend a hearing on the next stage, which would be a preliminary injunction.</p><h2>Senate deadlocks for ninth time</h2><p>On the other side of the country, Republicans and Democrats continued to spar on Capitol Hill over the reasons for the shutdown, as the Senate failed for a ninth time to advance a short-term government spending bill.&nbsp;</p><p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00572.htm" target="_blank">51-44 vote</a>&nbsp;was nearly identical to the others that have taken place since mid-September, and neither side appeared inclined to make concessions or even try to negotiate.&nbsp;</p><p>Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, both Democrats, and Maine independent Sen. Angus King voted with Republicans to advance the bill. Kentucky GOP Sen. Rand Paul voted no.</p><p>Democrats maintain there must be a bipartisan deal to extend the enhanced tax credits that are set to expire at the end of this year for people who get their health insurance from the Affordable Care Act Marketplace.&nbsp;</p><p>GOP leaders said they are willing to begin negotiations on that issue, but only after Democrats vote to advance the stopgap bill that would fund government through Nov. 21.&nbsp;</p><p>The House&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/chance-government-shutdown-rises-us-senate-fails-advance-spending-bill" target="_blank">voted mostly along party</a>&nbsp;lines to approve the legislation in mid-September, but it has remained stalled in the Senate ever since, unable to garner the 60 votes needed to advance toward final passage. Republicans control the chamber with 53 seats.</p><p>Congress needs to approve the stopgap bill since it, once again, failed to approve all 12 of the full-year government funding bills by the Oct. 1 start of the new fiscal year.</p><p>The only other way to end the funding lapse would be for both chambers to reach a broadly bipartisan consensus on all of those appropriations bills.&nbsp;</p><h2>Layoffs across agencies</h2><p>The layoffs initiated by the Trump administration during the shutdown were detailed further on Tuesday in court filings from the labor unions’ attorneys as well as Trump administration officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Stephen Billy, senior adviser at the Office of Management and Budget, wrote the number of layoff notices had changed since Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/substantial-layoffs-federal-workers-launched-trump-administration-amid-shutdown" target="_blank">when he outlined</a>&nbsp;the Reductions in Force to the court.</p><p>The numbers have fluctuated significantly for some departments, but not for all.&nbsp;</p><ul>
                        <li>Commerce: Approximately 600 employees, up from 315</li><li>Education: Remained at 466 employees</li><li>Health and Human Services: 982 employees, down from a range of 1,100 to 1,200</li><li>Housing and Urban Development: Stayed at 442 employees</li><li>Homeland Security: Decreased to 54 from 176 employees</li><li>Treasury: Reduced somewhat to 1,377 employees, from 1,446&nbsp;</li>
                    </ul><h2>Energy, EPA layoffs</h2><p>Federal workers at those departments have 60 days between when the notice was sent and when they will no longer have jobs, though a different standard is in place at the Energy Department and the Environmental Protection Agency.&nbsp;</p><p>Energy officials, the document says, “issued a general RIF notice informing 179 employees that they may receive a specific notice in the future if it is determined they will be part of any RIF. If so, that notice would provide the relevant notice period.”</p><p>But a spokesperson for the Energy Department emailed States Newsroom on Tuesday evening to confirm officials had issued RIF notices to workers in the Offices of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Clean Energy Demonstrations, State and Community Energy Programs and Minority Economic Impact.</p><p>“All these offices played a major role in the Biden administration’s war on American Energy,” the spokesperson wrote. “They oversaw billions of dollars in wasteful spending and massive regulatory overreach, resulting in more expensive and less reliable energy. These offices are being realigned to reflect the Trump administration’s commitment to advancing affordable, reliable, and secure energy for the American people and a more responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”</p><p>Further confusing the situation at the Energy Department, a footnote in the court document filed by Billy said that particular agency isn’t actually experiencing a lapse in funding.&nbsp;</p><p>The Billy court document said EPA officials sent 28 employees “intent to RIF” notices and will send formal RIF notices “to any affected employees at least 60 days prior to the effective date.”&nbsp;</p><p>A separate document, filed by Thomas J. Nagy Jr., deputy assistant secretary for Human Resources at HHS, said “data discrepancies and processing errors” led to 1,760 employees receiving layoff notices instead of the intended 982.</p><p>“Employees have been working since October 10, 2025, to rescind the notices that had been issued in error,” Nagy wrote.&nbsp;</p><h2>At CDC, ‘eliminating entire offices’</h2><p>Yolanda Jacobs, president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 2883, wrote in a brief to the court that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “issued RIF notices to approximately 1,300 employees, eliminating entire offices at the agency. Then, within 24 hours, the CDC rescinded approximately 700 of those RIF notices.”&nbsp;</p><p>Jacobs wrote the 600 CDC workers who received RIFs will officially lose their jobs on Dec. 8, even though they have already lost access to work email and computers.&nbsp;</p><p>“Many Union members have told me that they are experiencing serious mental health problems and have found it very difficult to get their work done, given all of the turmoil that they have experienced this year,” Jacobs wrote, referencing previous RIF notices and reinstatements. “Members have told me that they worry on a day-to-day basis about whether they will have a job the next day. They said that they have felt like the Trump Administration has been using them as bargaining chips this year.”</p><p>Jacobs wrote that the Trump administration has decided to lay off many human resources workers, which had blocked other workers who received RIFs from being able to get information about how to roll over their health insurance coverage.&nbsp;</p><p>During past RIFs, she wrote, workers had “access to the employment records, including paystubs and performance records, that they need for processing their separations,” but cannot since they are locked out of computer systems.&nbsp;</p><h2>Layoffs hit Department of Education</h2><p>Rachel Gittleman, president of AFGE Local 252, which represents nearly 3,000 Education Department workers, wrote in a separate filing the layoffs will impact numerous programs, including civil rights, communications and outreach, elementary and secondary education, post secondary education, and special education and rehabilitative services.</p><p>“Receiving RIF notices has caused many employees enormous stress. A father of two young boys contacted me—he just moved into a new home and relies on his job to support his family,” Gittleman wrote. “He told me (he) doesn’t know what he will do next.”</p><p>Workers on maternity or disability leave also received layoff notices, “forcing them to job-hunt and face financial insecurity while managing newborns or health conditions,” she wrote.&nbsp;</p><p>Following past RIF notices, the department provided “career transitioning and counseling, benefits and retirement training, and access to other human resources and employee assistance programs.” But Gittleman wrote that isn’t happening this time.&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Devastated’ HUD employees</h2><p>Ashaki Robinson, regional vice president for AFGE Council 222, which represents nearly 5,000 HUD workers, said the layoff notices for that department will impact employees in Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Massachusetts, Puerto Rico, Texas and Washington, D.C., who manage a variety of programs.&nbsp;</p><p>“They are devastated that the RIF is happening and are very concerned about losing their incomes, health insurance coverage for themselves and dependents, and other employment benefits in 60 days, when they will be separated from employment,” Robinson wrote.&nbsp;</p><p>The hundreds of HUD workers who have received RIF notices, she wrote, were “targeted for termination not because of anything they did themselves, but because of decisions made by elected officials that may have been driven by politics.”</p>

Federal judge blocks Trump from carrying out thousands of layoffs during shutdown

BROWN COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 10 p.m. October 13, a Brown County deputy on routine patrol initiated a traffic stop on U.S. 75 highway near 160th in rural Brown County, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

The deputy made contact with the driver identified as 39-year-old Diego Juarez of Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp; The deputy discovered that he did not possess a&nbsp; valid drivers license.&nbsp; Juarez was arrested on a charge of Driving While Cancelled, Restricted or Revoked. While in the Brown County jail it was learned that Department of Homeland Security had a detainer on Juarez and he was&nbsp; released to DHS the next morning.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760559426211.png" alt="Juarez photo Brown County" />
                        <figcaption>Juarez photo Brown County</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>BROWN COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.</p><p>Just after 10 p.m. October 13, a Brown County deputy on routine patrol initiated a traffic stop on U.S. 75 highway near 160th in rural Brown County, according to Sheriff John Merchant.</p><p>The deputy made contact with the driver identified as 39-year-old Diego Juarez of Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp; The deputy discovered that he did not possess a&nbsp; valid drivers license.&nbsp; Juarez was arrested on a charge of Driving While Cancelled, Restricted or Revoked. While in the Brown County jail it was learned that Department of Homeland Security had a detainer on Juarez and he was&nbsp; released to DHS the next morning.</p>

Sheriff: Nebraska man deported after Kansas traffic stop arrest

WASHINGTON– The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has obtained credible intelligence indicating that Mexican criminals, in coordination with domestic extremist groups have placed targeted bounties on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel, according to a statement from the agency.

These criminal networks have issued explicit instructions to U.S.-based sympathetics, including street gangs in Chicago, to monitor, harass, and assassinate federal agents. Specific details from ongoing investigations include:&nbsp;

In Portland and Chicago, Antifa groups have provided logistical support such as pre-staged protest supplies, doxxing of agent identities, and on-the-ground interference to shield cartel-linked individuals from deportation.&nbsp;

“These criminal networks are not just resisting the rule of law, they are waging an organized campaign of terror against the brave men and women who protect our borders and communities,”&nbsp;said Secretary Kristi Noem. “Our agents are facing ambushes, drone surveillance, and death threats, all because they dare to enforce the laws passed by Congress. We will not back down from these threats, and every criminal, terrorist, and illegal alien will face American justice.”

DHS will not be deterred by these threats and calls on sanctuary state and local leaders to cease policies that embolden criminals. The public is urged to report suspicious activities—such as rooftop surveillance or organized protests blocking federal operations—to the DHS Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or via the ICE website.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740147958319.png" alt="File photo Miami ICE Enforcement &amp; Removal Operations office" />
                        <figcaption>File photo Miami ICE Enforcement &amp; Removal Operations office</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON– The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has obtained credible intelligence indicating that Mexican criminals, in coordination with domestic extremist groups have placed targeted bounties on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel, according to a statement from the agency.</p><p>These criminal networks have issued explicit instructions to U.S.-based sympathetics, including street gangs in Chicago, to monitor, harass, and assassinate federal agents. Specific details from ongoing investigations include:&nbsp;</p><ul>
                        <li>Spotter Networks: In neighborhoods like Chicago's Pilsen and Little Village, gang members affiliated with groups such as the Latin Kings have deployed "spotters" on rooftops equipped with firearms and radio communications. These individuals track ICE and CBP movements in real-time, relaying coordinates. This surveillance has enabled ambushes and disruptions during routine enforcement actions, including recent raids under Operation Midway Blitz.</li><li>Tiered Bounty System: Cartels have disseminated a structured bounty program to incentivize violence against federal personnel, with payouts escalating based on rank and action taken:$2,000 for gathering intelligence or doxxing agents (including photos and family details).$5,000–$10,000 for kidnapping or non-lethal assaults on standard ICE/CBP officers.Up to $50,000 for the assassination of high-ranking officials.</li><li>$2,000 for gathering intelligence or doxxing agents (including photos and family details).</li><li>$5,000–$10,000 for kidnapping or non-lethal assaults on standard ICE/CBP officers.</li><li>Up to $50,000 for the assassination of high-ranking officials.</li>
                    </ul><p>In Portland and Chicago, Antifa groups have provided logistical support such as pre-staged protest supplies, doxxing of agent identities, and on-the-ground interference to shield cartel-linked individuals from deportation.&nbsp;</p><p>“These criminal networks are not just resisting the rule of law, they are waging an organized campaign of terror against the brave men and women who protect our borders and communities,”&nbsp;said Secretary Kristi Noem. “Our agents are facing ambushes, drone surveillance, and death threats, all because they dare to enforce the laws passed by Congress. We will not back down from these threats, and every criminal, terrorist, and illegal alien will face American justice.”</p><p>DHS will not be deterred by these threats and calls on sanctuary state and local leaders to cease policies that embolden criminals. The public is urged to report suspicious activities—such as rooftop surveillance or organized protests blocking federal operations—to the DHS Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or via the ICE website.&nbsp;</p>

DHS: Mexican gangs offering bounties for ICE agent assassinations

(Grand Island, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Wednesday morning in Grand Island. There were no injuries in the shooting.

At approximately 6:40 a.m., investigators with the NSP Technical Crimes Unit were serving a search warrant at a residence at 921 East Oklahoma Avenue in Grand Island. The search warrant was in relation to a child pornography investigation.

Preliminary information shows that as investigators attempted to perform the search warrant, the resident, Justin Jelinek, fired a gun from inside the home. A trooper returned fire. Nobody was struck by gunfire. Jelinek then barricaded himself inside the home.

The NSP SWAT Team was activated, and investigators gave repeated commands for Jelinek to exit the home. After approximately ten minutes, Jelinek voluntarily exited the home and was taken into custody without further incident..

Jelinek, 43, has been lodged in Hall County Jail on charges of attempted homicide, attempted first degree assault, use of weapon to commit a felony, resisting arrest, and obstructing a peace officer.

A search of the home revealed over 20 firearms and over 5,000 rounds of ammunition. The investigation remains ongoing. The Grand Island Police Department assisted in this response.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564017172814.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>For Immediate Release</i></p><p>(Grand Island, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Wednesday morning in Grand Island. There were no injuries in the shooting.</p><p>At approximately 6:40 a.m., investigators with the NSP Technical Crimes Unit were serving a search warrant at a residence at 921 East Oklahoma Avenue in Grand Island. The search warrant was in relation to a child pornography investigation.</p><p>Preliminary information shows that as investigators attempted to perform the search warrant, the resident, Justin Jelinek, fired a gun from inside the home. A trooper returned fire. Nobody was struck by gunfire. Jelinek then barricaded himself inside the home.</p><p>The NSP SWAT Team was activated, and investigators gave repeated commands for Jelinek to exit the home. After approximately ten minutes, Jelinek voluntarily exited the home and was taken into custody without further incident..</p><p>Jelinek, 43, has been lodged in Hall County Jail on charges of attempted homicide, attempted first degree assault, use of weapon to commit a felony, resisting arrest, and obstructing a peace officer.</p><p>A search of the home revealed over 20 firearms and over 5,000 rounds of ammunition. The investigation remains ongoing. The Grand Island Police Department assisted in this response.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760627506366.jpeg" alt="<b>Justin M. Jelinek (Hall County Sheriff's Office)</b>" />
                        <figcaption><b>Justin M. Jelinek (Hall County Sheriff's Office)</b></figcaption>
                    </figure>

Grand Island Man Arrested After Shooting at Troopers

<a href="https://www.nebeef.org/resources/newsroom/news/details/44364/bridging-agriculture-and-nutrition-nebraska-beef-council-engages-future-dietitians">By: Madison Doeschot - Nebraska Beef Council&nbsp;</a>

Kearney, Ne - Mitch Rippe, Nebraska Beef Council Director of Nutrition and Education, has been busy connecting the worlds of agriculture and dietetics through two impactful learning experiences for dietetic interns from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.&nbsp;

In an effort to bridge the gap between dietetic programs and the agricultural industry, the Nebraska Beef Council recently hosted a comprehensive farm tour offering future dietitians’ firsthand exposure to the beef production cycle.&nbsp;

Stops included Lienetics Ranch, Weber &amp; Sons Co., and McLean Beef’s retail and processing facility, where students learned about sustainability, animal care, and food safety. Nebraska Beef Council Board Member Mark Goes led an interactive meat science session utilizing carcasses donated from the Cattlemen’s Ball, including Angus, Hereford, Beef x Dairy, and Piedmontese breeds. Students used tools and data to calculate ribeye area and quality grade, connecting classroom knowledge to real-world applications.&nbsp;

UNMC intern Kennedy Jones reflected on the experience:&nbsp;

“Seeing how feed is designed to promote healthy growth helped me better understand the link between animal nutrition and the quality of beef people eat. Watching the steps of portioning, packaging, and labeling made me think differently about food safety. It made food systems feel much more personal.”&nbsp;

<b>Media &amp; Communications Workshop&nbsp;</b>

Following the tour, the Nebraska Beef Council also hosted a Media and Communications Workshop, designed to help dietetic interns strengthen their communication skills and build confidence when sharing nutrition information with the public. Sessions were led by expert partners, including Hannah Guenther, Food, Nutrition, and Health Extension Educator with Nebraska Extension, who led Communicating Health with Impact: Tailoring Health Messages for Every Community, and Melissa Joy Dobbins, MS, RDN, CDCES, host of the nationally recognized Sound Bites® Podcast, who presented Messaging, Bridging, and Beyond. These sessions equipped interns with tools for message consistency, consumer trust, and effectively navigating complex food conversations.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760539687945.jpeg" alt="Dietetic interns attend the communications &amp; media workshop presented by the Nebraska Beef Council. (Courtesy Photo Nebraska Beef Council)" />
                        <figcaption>Dietetic interns attend the communications &amp; media workshop presented by the Nebraska Beef Council. (Courtesy Photo Nebraska Beef Council)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://www.nebeef.org/resources/newsroom/news/details/44364/bridging-agriculture-and-nutrition-nebraska-beef-council-engages-future-dietitians">By: Madison Doeschot - Nebraska Beef Council&nbsp;</a></p><p>Kearney, Ne - Mitch Rippe, Nebraska Beef Council Director of Nutrition and Education, has been busy connecting the worlds of agriculture and dietetics through two impactful learning experiences for dietetic interns from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.&nbsp;</p><p><b>Beef Industry Farm Tour&nbsp;</b></p><p>In an effort to bridge the gap between dietetic programs and the agricultural industry, the Nebraska Beef Council recently hosted a comprehensive farm tour offering future dietitians’ firsthand exposure to the beef production cycle.&nbsp;</p><p>Stops included Lienetics Ranch, Weber &amp; Sons Co., and McLean Beef’s retail and processing facility, where students learned about sustainability, animal care, and food safety. Nebraska Beef Council Board Member Mark Goes led an interactive meat science session utilizing carcasses donated from the Cattlemen’s Ball, including Angus, Hereford, Beef x Dairy, and Piedmontese breeds. Students used tools and data to calculate ribeye area and quality grade, connecting classroom knowledge to real-world applications.&nbsp;</p><p>UNMC intern Kennedy Jones reflected on the experience:&nbsp;</p><p>“Seeing how feed is designed to promote healthy growth helped me better understand the link between animal nutrition and the quality of beef people eat. Watching the steps of portioning, packaging, and labeling made me think differently about food safety. It made food systems feel much more personal.”&nbsp;</p><p><b>Media &amp; Communications Workshop&nbsp;</b></p><p>Following the tour, the Nebraska Beef Council also hosted a Media and Communications Workshop, designed to help dietetic interns strengthen their communication skills and build confidence when sharing nutrition information with the public. Sessions were led by expert partners, including Hannah Guenther, Food, Nutrition, and Health Extension Educator with Nebraska Extension, who led Communicating Health with Impact: Tailoring Health Messages for Every Community, and Melissa Joy Dobbins, MS, RDN, CDCES, host of the nationally recognized Sound Bites® Podcast, who presented Messaging, Bridging, and Beyond. These sessions equipped interns with tools for message consistency, consumer trust, and effectively navigating complex food conversations.</p>

Bridging Agriculture and Nutrition: Nebraska Beef Council Engages Future Dietitians

Washington D.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court is rearguing Louisiana v. Callais today, October 15, 2025 — a case that could redefine how race can be considered in drawing congressional districts and potentially shift the balance of power in Congress.

The dispute began after Louisiana lawmakers were ordered by a lower court to add a second majority-Black district, finding the state’s original map diluted Black voting strength under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. That new map was later struck down by another federal court, which ruled the lines amounted to unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.

The Court first heard arguments in the case on March 24, 2025, but requested additional briefing, prompting today’s reargument on whether any race-based redistricting — even when ordered as a remedy under the Voting Rights Act — is constitutional.

Civil rights advocates warn the outcome could dramatically weaken the landmark voting law, which has protected minority voting power for nearly 60 years. Legal experts say a ruling against the use of race-conscious maps could affect congressional boundaries in several states and potentially cost Democrats a number of seats. Some estimates suggest Republicans could gain as many as 15 to 19 districts nationwide if the Court strikes down such maps.&nbsp;

Conservative justices, including Clarence Thomas, have long questioned the constitutionality of using race in redistricting, emphasizing a “color-blind” interpretation of the law. Liberal justices, meanwhile, have argued that ignoring race altogether would erase decades of progress in ensuring fair representation for minority voters.

Louisiana officials contend that the map drawn in 2024 relied too heavily on race and should be invalidated. Civil rights groups counter that race must be considered to comply with the Voting Rights Act and to ensure equal political opportunity.

Today’s hearing drew national attention from both political parties, voting rights organizations, and state officials watching for guidance on how future redistricting battles will unfold.

A decision in Louisiana v. Callais is expected by next summer.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760540323353.jpeg" alt="Front (left to right) - Associate Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., Associate Justices Samuel A. Alito, Jr. and Elena Kagan. Back (left to right) - Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett M. Kavanaugh and Ketanji Brown Jackson (Photo Courtesy Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States)" />
                        <figcaption>Front (left to right) - Associate Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., Associate Justices Samuel A. Alito, Jr. and Elena Kagan. Back (left to right) - Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett M. Kavanaugh and Ketanji Brown Jackson (Photo Courtesy Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Washington D.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court is rearguing Louisiana v. Callais today, October 15, 2025 — a case that could redefine how race can be considered in drawing congressional districts and potentially shift the balance of power in Congress.</p><p>The dispute began after Louisiana lawmakers were ordered by a lower court to add a second majority-Black district, finding the state’s original map diluted Black voting strength under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. That new map was later struck down by another federal court, which ruled the lines amounted to unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.</p><p>The Court first heard arguments in the case on March 24, 2025, but requested additional briefing, prompting today’s reargument on whether any race-based redistricting — even when ordered as a remedy under the Voting Rights Act — is constitutional.</p><p>Civil rights advocates warn the outcome could dramatically weaken the landmark voting law, which has protected minority voting power for nearly 60 years. Legal experts say a ruling against the use of race-conscious maps could affect congressional boundaries in several states and potentially cost Democrats a number of seats. Some estimates suggest Republicans could gain as many as 15 to 19 districts nationwide if the Court strikes down such maps.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760540552121.jpeg" alt="Clarence Tomas is expected to lead the case. (Photo Courtesy: Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States, Photographer: Steve Petteway)" />
                        <figcaption>Clarence Tomas is expected to lead the case. (Photo Courtesy: Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States, Photographer: Steve Petteway)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Conservative justices, including Clarence Thomas, have long questioned the constitutionality of using race in redistricting, emphasizing a “color-blind” interpretation of the law. Liberal justices, meanwhile, have argued that ignoring race altogether would erase decades of progress in ensuring fair representation for minority voters.</p><p>Louisiana officials contend that the map drawn in 2024 relied too heavily on race and should be invalidated. Civil rights groups counter that race must be considered to comply with the Voting Rights Act and to ensure equal political opportunity.</p><p>Today’s hearing drew national attention from both political parties, voting rights organizations, and state officials watching for guidance on how future redistricting battles will unfold.</p><p>A decision in Louisiana v. Callais is expected by next summer.</p>

Supreme Court Hears Major Voting Rights Case With Potential to Reshape Congress

Little progress has been made to end&nbsp;the government shutdown&nbsp;as it enters its third week. On Tuesday, Senate chaplain, Retired Rear-Admiral Barry Black, asked&nbsp;the Lord to bring a ceasefire to "our legislative combat."

The shutdown&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-trump-health-care-54b2a584657a0b619bc8326708a05604">began on Oct. 1</a>&nbsp;after Democrats rejected a short-term funding fix and demanded that the bill include an extension of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">federal subsidies for health insurance</a>&nbsp;under the Affordable Care Act. Trump and other Republican leaders have said the government must reopen before they will negotiate with Democrats on the health subsidies.

<p>Little progress has been made to end&nbsp;the government shutdown&nbsp;as it enters its third week. On Tuesday, Senate chaplain, Retired Rear-Admiral Barry Black, asked&nbsp;the Lord to bring a ceasefire to "our legislative combat."</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;Thank You for the ceasefire between Gaza and Israel ... And Lord, bring a ceasefire to our legislative combat.&quot;<br><br>-- Senate chaplain Black opening prayer <a href="https://t.co/GqbDFoY3Ur">pic.twitter.com/GqbDFoY3Ur</a></p>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1978187423889698995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>The shutdown&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-trump-health-care-54b2a584657a0b619bc8326708a05604">began on Oct. 1</a>&nbsp;after Democrats rejected a short-term funding fix and demanded that the bill include an extension of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">federal subsidies for health insurance</a>&nbsp;under the Affordable Care Act. Trump and other Republican leaders have said the government must reopen before they will negotiate with Democrats on the health subsidies.</p>

🎥Senate chaplain prays for "ceasefire" to end government shutdown

MCCOOK, Neb. — Governor Jim Pillen’s office has confirmed that Nebraska’s new ICE detention center in McCook is expected to be operational by November 1, though questions continue to surround transparency and oversight of the project.

The facility is a conversion of the state-run Work Ethic Camp, a minimum-security correctional program focused on rehabilitation and workforce development. The site, now branded the “Cornhusker Clink,” will house up to 300 low- to medium-risk ICE detainees, though the original facility was designed for fewer inmates. Detainees are expected to stay an average of five to fifty days while awaiting immigration proceedings. Pillen has said the partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is meant to address federal immigration needs while creating jobs in southwest Nebraska.

The project was publicly announced in August 2025, and state officials say it is on track for a November 1 opening. The state will continue to own and operate the facility through the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, with the federal government reimbursing the state for housing costs. Pillen’s office has not confirmed whether a final contract with the federal government has been signed, citing ongoing negotiations. About 186 current state inmates have already been relocated to accommodate the change, highlighting the logistical challenges of the conversion.

While the governor has framed the project as a “win-win” for the state and federal authorities, it has faced growing criticism from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and residents. At least nine public records requests filed by news outlets seeking details of the negotiations have been denied or heavily redacted. Pillen’s office has cited legal exemptions and confidentiality agreements, but critics argue that the state is sidestepping public oversight.

Local responses remain mixed. Some community members and leaders see the facility as an economic opportunity that could bring jobs in security, administration, and support services, while others are concerned about the lack of public input, facility readiness, and potential long-term impacts on McCook. Lawmakers have also expressed concerns about staffing levels and whether the site can safely accommodate the new detainees.

Questions also remain about who will be housed at the facility, including whether women or families will be included, and what specific security or medical protocols will be in place. Pillen has stated that detainees will be low-risk individuals, emphasizing the state’s role in enforcing law and order while cooperating with federal authorities.

As the November 1 opening date approaches, the McCook ICE facility continues to draw attention from both supporters and opponents, highlighting the tension between operational goals and public transparency in Nebraska’s approach to federal immigration enforcement.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760485527347.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>MCCOOK, Neb. — Governor Jim Pillen’s office has confirmed that Nebraska’s new ICE detention center in McCook is expected to be operational by November 1, though questions continue to surround transparency and oversight of the project.</p><p>The facility is a conversion of the state-run Work Ethic Camp, a minimum-security correctional program focused on rehabilitation and workforce development. The site, now branded the “Cornhusker Clink,” will house up to 300 low- to medium-risk ICE detainees, though the original facility was designed for fewer inmates. Detainees are expected to stay an average of five to fifty days while awaiting immigration proceedings. Pillen has said the partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is meant to address federal immigration needs while creating jobs in southwest Nebraska.</p><p>The project was publicly announced in August 2025, and state officials say it is on track for a November 1 opening. The state will continue to own and operate the facility through the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, with the federal government reimbursing the state for housing costs. Pillen’s office has not confirmed whether a final contract with the federal government has been signed, citing ongoing negotiations. About 186 current state inmates have already been relocated to accommodate the change, highlighting the logistical challenges of the conversion.</p><p>While the governor has framed the project as a “win-win” for the state and federal authorities, it has faced growing criticism from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and residents. At least nine public records requests filed by news outlets seeking details of the negotiations have been denied or heavily redacted. Pillen’s office has cited legal exemptions and confidentiality agreements, but critics argue that the state is sidestepping public oversight.</p><p>Local responses remain mixed. Some community members and leaders see the facility as an economic opportunity that could bring jobs in security, administration, and support services, while others are concerned about the lack of public input, facility readiness, and potential long-term impacts on McCook. Lawmakers have also expressed concerns about staffing levels and whether the site can safely accommodate the new detainees.</p><p>Questions also remain about who will be housed at the facility, including whether women or families will be included, and what specific security or medical protocols will be in place. Pillen has stated that detainees will be low-risk individuals, emphasizing the state’s role in enforcing law and order while cooperating with federal authorities.</p><p>As the November 1 opening date approaches, the McCook ICE facility continues to draw attention from both supporters and opponents, highlighting the tension between operational goals and public transparency in Nebraska’s approach to federal immigration enforcement.</p>

McCook ICE Facility 18 Days From Opening Amid Transparency Concerns

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump Participates in a Medal of Freedom Ceremony for Charlie Kirk <a href="https://t.co/KGAv0O6oTz">https://t.co/KGAv0O6oTz</a></p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1978198302932742489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump and Erika Kirk arrive to the Medal of Freedom Ceremony for Charlie Kirk ❤️🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/6aRc4TOTRt">pic.twitter.com/6aRc4TOTRt</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1978200500035047809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Every single day of this administration, we will continue to carry out the mission for which he lived... In <a href="https://twitter.com/charliekirk11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@charliekirk11</a>&#39;s honor, we will continue, like we have been, to Fight, Fight, Fight—and to WIN, WIN, WIN. We&#39;re gonna win SO MUCH.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/tLUvMHgtVQ">pic.twitter.com/tLUvMHgtVQ</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978207602958864822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;In the days since Charlie&#39;s killing, we&#39;ve seen exactly why our country so dearly needed his example. We&#39;ve watched legions of far-left radicals resort to desperate acts of violence and terror because they know that their ideas and arguments are persuading no one.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/A1IsbDrmpT">pic.twitter.com/A1IsbDrmpT</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978205826754973917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Charlie Kirk was a martyr for truth and for freedom, and from Socrates... to Saint Peter... those who change history the most, and he really did, have always risked their lives for causes they were put on earth to defend.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/SFK1OeuxPc">pic.twitter.com/SFK1OeuxPc</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978205271185850551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded posthumously to the late Charlie Kirk, to his wife, Mrs. Erika Kirk 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/T28dH9Gk4S">pic.twitter.com/T28dH9Gk4S</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978209628627370054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MrsErikaKirk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MrsErikaKirk</a>: &quot;If the moment had come, he probably would have run for president, but not out of ambition, He would only have done if it that was something that he believed his country needed.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/9DkGIaN4Wp">pic.twitter.com/9DkGIaN4Wp</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1978213900253376643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MrsErikaKirk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MrsErikaKirk</a> reveals daughter&#39;s message on Charlie Kirk&#39;s birthday. <a href="https://t.co/UYPzY4ntDR">pic.twitter.com/UYPzY4ntDR</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1978216759560741237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">After the Medal of Freedom ceremony honoring <a href="https://twitter.com/charliekirk11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@charliekirk11</a>, President Trump and Vice President Vance stood with Erika as Amazing Grace played ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/dWv9d4Z3WV">pic.twitter.com/dWv9d4Z3WV</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1978224055300804723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump signs a Proclamation declaring October 14 as the National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk ❤️ <br><br>President Trump recalls nights on the Mar-a-Lago patio listening to music with Charlie…<br><br>“Remember Charlie on the patio…he could sit there all night long!” <a href="https://t.co/pDrEBWEdmV">pic.twitter.com/pDrEBWEdmV</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1978229151346597983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump posthumously awards Charlie Kirk the Medal of Freedom

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/8DMrDfoSjF">pic.twitter.com/8DMrDfoSjF</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978155685150945357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥6 killed after US strikes another drug boat of Venezuela 

Lincoln, October 14, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold a formal hearing in the Black Hills Energy Rate Case (NG-124) beginning at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday October 15, in the Commission hearing room and online.

On May 1, Black Hills Energy filed an application with the PSC seeking a $34.6 million dollar rate increase. The proposal will increase Black Hills’ fixed customer charges and distribution charges, the rates regulated by the Commission. The Commission has until January 1, 2026, to make its decision regarding Black Hills Energy’s rate increase application.

Testimony and comments made during the formal hearing will be limited to the parties involved in the proceedings, including Black Hills Energy, and the Public Advocate. Customers are represented by the Public Advocate, an attorney with experience in natural gas matters appointed pursuant to statute.

Information for viewing the hearing can be found on the commission calendar on the PSC website. Additional information can be found on the NG-124 Black Hills Energy Rate Case page of under the Natural Gas Department tab of the PSC website.

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686701463880.png" alt="<br>" />
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                    </figure><p><i>For Immediate Release</i></p><p>Lincoln, October 14, 2025- The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold a formal hearing in the Black Hills Energy Rate Case (NG-124) beginning at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday October 15, in the Commission hearing room and online.</p><p>On May 1, Black Hills Energy filed an application with the PSC seeking a $34.6 million dollar rate increase. The proposal will increase Black Hills’ fixed customer charges and distribution charges, the rates regulated by the Commission. The Commission has until January 1, 2026, to make its decision regarding Black Hills Energy’s rate increase application.</p><p>Testimony and comments made during the formal hearing will be limited to the parties involved in the proceedings, including Black Hills Energy, and the Public Advocate. Customers are represented by the Public Advocate, an attorney with experience in natural gas matters appointed pursuant to statute.</p><p>Information for viewing the hearing can be found on the commission calendar on the PSC website. Additional information can be found on the NG-124 Black Hills Energy Rate Case page of under the Natural Gas Department tab of the PSC website.</p>

Nebraska Commission to Hold Formal Hearing in Black Hills Energy Rate Case

<br>October 14, 2025 (Omaha, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested a Georgia woman after locating 130 pounds of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 in eastern Nebraska.

Saturday, at approximately 6:45 p.m., a trooper stopped an eastbound Nissan Altima for speeding on I-80 near mile marker 440. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity. A K9 with the Papillion Police Department detected the odor of a controlled substance coming from the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle revealed several trash bags in the trunk, containing suspected methamphetamine. The total weight was 130 pounds.

The driver, Iesha Smith, 47, of Smyrna, Georgia, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. She was lodged in Sarpy County Jail.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760470018500.jpeg" alt="Nebraska State Patrol arrested a Georgia woman after locating 130 lbs of methamphetamine in eastern Nebraska Saturday, Oct. 11." />
                        <figcaption>Nebraska State Patrol arrested a Georgia woman after locating 130 lbs of methamphetamine in eastern Nebraska Saturday, Oct. 11.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><br>October 14, 2025 (Omaha, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested a Georgia woman after locating 130 pounds of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 in eastern Nebraska.</p><p>Saturday, at approximately 6:45 p.m., a trooper stopped an eastbound Nissan Altima for speeding on I-80 near mile marker 440. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity. A K9 with the Papillion Police Department detected the odor of a controlled substance coming from the vehicle.</p><p>A search of the vehicle revealed several trash bags in the trunk, containing suspected methamphetamine. The total weight was 130 pounds.</p><p>The driver, Iesha Smith, 47, of Smyrna, Georgia, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. She was lodged in Sarpy County Jail.</p>

Troopers Find 130 LBs of Methamphetamine in I-80 Traffic Stop

October 14, 2025 (Kearney, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol hosted troopers and officers from eleven other states for a week of training that will help keep roadways safe across the country.

Last week, NSP Carrier Enforcement troopers provided a series of training sessions focused on commercial motor vehicle safety, including inspections and post-crash investigations. The training included troopers and officers from Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Idaho, Texas, Wisconsin, Vermont, Illinois, and Kansas.

“Teamwork across state lines is important to keep America’s roadways safe,” said Captain Martin Denton, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to share their training with troopers and officers from across the country. The scenarios are based on actual encounters and situations our troopers have experienced. Thanks to all the participants and our local partners for making last week’s training a success.”

The training sessions provided both classroom and hands-on instruction in areas of forensic examination of commercial motor vehicles, as well as completion of post-crash inspections of commercial motor vehicles.

NSP received assistance from several local partners to make this training as valuable as possible. Thank you to the Nebraska Trucking Association, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, Crete Carrier Corp., Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC, Randy and Brian’s Towing, Dowhy Towing, Carney Towing, Great West Casualty Insurance, Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, Nebraska Department of Transportation, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for their partnership in this training.

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760454525890.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
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                    </figure><p><i>For Immediate Release</i></p><p>October 14, 2025 (Kearney, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol hosted troopers and officers from eleven other states for a week of training that will help keep roadways safe across the country.</p><p>Last week, NSP Carrier Enforcement troopers provided a series of training sessions focused on commercial motor vehicle safety, including inspections and post-crash investigations. The training included troopers and officers from Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Idaho, Texas, Wisconsin, Vermont, Illinois, and Kansas.</p><p>“Teamwork across state lines is important to keep America’s roadways safe,” said Captain Martin Denton, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to share their training with troopers and officers from across the country. The scenarios are based on actual encounters and situations our troopers have experienced. Thanks to all the participants and our local partners for making last week’s training a success.”</p><p>The training sessions provided both classroom and hands-on instruction in areas of forensic examination of commercial motor vehicles, as well as completion of post-crash inspections of commercial motor vehicles.</p><p>NSP received assistance from several local partners to make this training as valuable as possible. Thank you to the Nebraska Trucking Association, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, Crete Carrier Corp., Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC, Randy and Brian’s Towing, Dowhy Towing, Carney Towing, Great West Casualty Insurance, Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, Nebraska Department of Transportation, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for their partnership in this training.</p>

NSP Hosts Officials from 11 States for Commercial Vehicle Training

On October 14, 2025, President Donald Trump will posthumously award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated on September 10 during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. The ceremony, scheduled for 4 p.m. ET at the White House, will coincide with what would have been Kirk's 32nd birthday. His wife, Erika Kirk, will accept the honor on his behalf.&nbsp;

President Trump has praised Kirk as “a giant of his generation” and “a champion of liberty,” emphasizing his significant impact on American society. The award ceremony is expected to draw a large crowd, reflecting the high regard in which Kirk was held by his supporters.&nbsp;

Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded, continues to honor his memory by engaging young people across the nation, promoting the principles of free markets and limited government. In the wake of Kirk's passing, TPUSA has seen a surge in interest, with over 120,000 inquiries and the establishment of more than 2,700 new chapters.&nbsp;

The National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk is to serve as a reminder of the importance of civic engagement, open discourse, and the promotion of democratic values. As Americans observe this day, they are encouraged to reflect on Kirk's contributions and consider how they can continue to engage in meaningful ways within their communities.

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760455630073.jpeg" alt="President Donald Trump embraces Erika Kirk during memorial service for her husband, Charlie Kirk, on Sept. 21, 2025. (Photo USA Today)" />
                        <figcaption>President Donald Trump embraces Erika Kirk during memorial service for her husband, Charlie Kirk, on Sept. 21, 2025. (Photo USA Today)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>On October 14, 2025, President Donald Trump will posthumously award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated on September 10 during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. The ceremony, scheduled for 4 p.m. ET at the White House, will coincide with what would have been Kirk's 32nd birthday. His wife, Erika Kirk, will accept the honor on his behalf.&nbsp;</p><p>President Trump has praised Kirk as “a giant of his generation” and “a champion of liberty,” emphasizing his significant impact on American society. The award ceremony is expected to draw a large crowd, reflecting the high regard in which Kirk was held by his supporters.&nbsp;</p><p>Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded, continues to honor his memory by engaging young people across the nation, promoting the principles of free markets and limited government. In the wake of Kirk's passing, TPUSA has seen a surge in interest, with over 120,000 inquiries and the establishment of more than 2,700 new chapters.&nbsp;</p><p>The National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk is to serve as a reminder of the importance of civic engagement, open discourse, and the promotion of democratic values. As Americans observe this day, they are encouraged to reflect on Kirk's contributions and consider how they can continue to engage in meaningful ways within their communities.</p>

Erika Kirk to Accept Presidential Medal of Freedom for Late Charlie Kirk

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU), Nebraska’s leading organizer of cooperatives says that rural Nebraska continues to benefit from using cooperatives. NeFU estimates it has organized 445 cooperatives since 1911.

NeFU President John Hansen said, “Because we have so many different kinds of cooperatives that blend into our rural communities, and because they are such an important part of our daily lives, it is easy to take their benefits for granted. We are sharing the Nebraska Cooperative Council’s fact sheet on the benefits of Nebraska cooperatives to highlight the importance of keeping, using, and growing our cooperatives. We own them, and we benefit from them when we do business with ourselves. As owners, we have a responsibility to be engaged and involved in our cooperatives. We thank all the men and women who take the time to serve on coop boards across our state.”

From the Nebraska Cooperative Council Fact Sheet:

“In 2022, the Nebraska Cooperative Council commissioned the Bureau of Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to conduct a study of the economic effect of Nebraska’s farmer owned supply/marketing and regional cooperatives. According to the study, published in 2023, Nebraska’s supply/marketing cooperatives and regional cooperatives’ operations in Nebraska provided a $3.1 billion impact on Nebraska’s economy. Of this total, average annual economic impacts of $213.4 million were felt in the Omaha and Lincoln metropolitan areas.”

Nebraska Farmers Union is a general farm organization with 3,532 farm and ranch family members dedicated to protecting and enhancing the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers and ranchers, and their rural communities.&nbsp; Since 1913, Nebraska Farmers Union has helped organize over 445 cooperatives.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760443368708.png" alt="Rural Nebraska continues to benefit from using cooperatives. (Photo by Jan Kraus on Unsplash)" />
                        <figcaption>Rural Nebraska continues to benefit from using cooperatives. (Photo by Jan Kraus on Unsplash)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU), Nebraska’s leading organizer of cooperatives says that rural Nebraska continues to benefit from using cooperatives. NeFU estimates it has organized 445 cooperatives since 1911.</p><p>NeFU President John Hansen said, “Because we have so many different kinds of cooperatives that blend into our rural communities, and because they are such an important part of our daily lives, it is easy to take their benefits for granted. We are sharing the Nebraska Cooperative Council’s fact sheet on the benefits of Nebraska cooperatives to highlight the importance of keeping, using, and growing our cooperatives. We own them, and we benefit from them when we do business with ourselves. As owners, we have a responsibility to be engaged and involved in our cooperatives. We thank all the men and women who take the time to serve on coop boards across our state.”</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://cdn-ilbhofd.nitrocdn.com/GylVsJfULsgVDWUCFBufHmCoRzeNFaNW/assets/images/optimized/rev-e070a14/www.morningagclips.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/co-ops.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>From the Nebraska Cooperative Council Fact Sheet:</p><p>“In 2022, the Nebraska Cooperative Council commissioned the Bureau of Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to conduct a study of the economic effect of Nebraska’s farmer owned supply/marketing and regional cooperatives. According to the study, published in 2023, Nebraska’s supply/marketing cooperatives and regional cooperatives’ operations in Nebraska provided a $3.1 billion impact on Nebraska’s economy. Of this total, average annual economic impacts of $213.4 million were felt in the Omaha and Lincoln metropolitan areas.”</p><p>Nebraska Farmers Union is a general farm organization with 3,532 farm and ranch family members dedicated to protecting and enhancing the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers and ranchers, and their rural communities.&nbsp; Since 1913, Nebraska Farmers Union has helped organize over 445 cooperatives.</p><p>— Nebraska Farmers Union</p>

NeFU Says Cooperative Month Reminds Us of the Many Benefits Coops Provide

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760374235793.jpeg" alt="Photo from White House video" />
                        <figcaption>Photo from White House video</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> stands at the center alongside dozens of his fellow world leaders — all coming together for today&#39;s unprecedented international Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt 🕊️ <a href="https://t.co/w2J4esyYcI">pic.twitter.com/w2J4esyYcI</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977768075954176492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump is the Peace President. <a href="https://t.co/QMJbh0L1oE">https://t.co/QMJbh0L1oE</a></p>&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1977783829122232455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> stands at the center alongside dozens of his fellow world leaders — all coming together for today&#39;s unprecedented international Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt 🕊️ <a href="https://t.co/w2J4esyYcI">pic.twitter.com/w2J4esyYcI</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977768075954176492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome billboards all around Sharm El-Sheikh 🇺🇸🇪🇬 <a href="https://t.co/39ISvVLuA7">pic.twitter.com/39ISvVLuA7</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1977794848288575989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST <a href="https://t.co/hf7tBaoMNY">pic.twitter.com/hf7tBaoMNY</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977760167530803685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE PEACE PRESIDENT! <a href="https://t.co/w48BJVq9x9">pic.twitter.com/w48BJVq9x9</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977763074640662572?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> joins the leaders of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in an official signing ceremony for the historic Gaza Peace Deal <a href="https://t.co/mqonzJNyP1">pic.twitter.com/mqonzJNyP1</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977775145314861393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Everyone wants a photo with the Leader of the Free World — THE PRESIDENT OF PEACE! <a href="https://t.co/1SHKLvdL6u">pic.twitter.com/1SHKLvdL6u</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977777422465716723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> joins the leaders of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in an official signing ceremony for the historic Gaza Peace Deal <a href="https://t.co/mqonzJNyP1">pic.twitter.com/mqonzJNyP1</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977775145314861393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump calls for a new era of harmony in the Middle East

The federal government shutdown has now stretched into its 13th day, and the effects are being felt both in Washington and across the country. In Nebraska and the Great Plains, federal employees, contractors, and programs tied to the region are beginning to experience delays and disruptions.

Treasury officials say the shutdown is starting to impact the broader economy. Thousands of federal employees remain furloughed, and more than 4,000 have received notices of potential layoffs. Military pay continues to be prioritized, but other agencies are facing postponed payments, halted contracts, and delayed services.

Locally, programs that rely on federal support — including agricultural assistance, rural development initiatives, and federal research projects — are seeing slowdowns. Communities that depend on federal offices or grant programs are beginning to feel the ripple effects. For example, Nebraska farmers awaiting timely updates or assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture may face delays, and federally funded research centers and environmental programs have paused operations.

Many popular federal attractions, including museums and the National Zoo, remain closed due to lack of funding. Meanwhile, public data releases, grant processing, and other administrative functions are delayed nationwide.

Congress has yet to reach a resolution. The Senate has been unable to pass a short-term funding bill, while the House remains out of session. Both sides continue to place blame on each other, with no clear end to the shutdown in sight.

Experts warn that if the shutdown continues, the economic impact could deepen, affecting not only federal employees but also local communities and industries that rely on government programs and support.

The shutdown’s effects are spreading beyond Washington, and how long it continues will determine the depth of its impact on workers, communities, and local economies.

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757465055351.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The federal government shutdown has now stretched into its 13th day, and the effects are being felt both in Washington and across the country. In Nebraska and the Great Plains, federal employees, contractors, and programs tied to the region are beginning to experience delays and disruptions.</p><p>Treasury officials say the shutdown is starting to impact the broader economy. Thousands of federal employees remain furloughed, and more than 4,000 have received notices of potential layoffs. Military pay continues to be prioritized, but other agencies are facing postponed payments, halted contracts, and delayed services.</p><p>Locally, programs that rely on federal support — including agricultural assistance, rural development initiatives, and federal research projects — are seeing slowdowns. Communities that depend on federal offices or grant programs are beginning to feel the ripple effects. For example, Nebraska farmers awaiting timely updates or assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture may face delays, and federally funded research centers and environmental programs have paused operations.</p><p>Many popular federal attractions, including museums and the National Zoo, remain closed due to lack of funding. Meanwhile, public data releases, grant processing, and other administrative functions are delayed nationwide.</p><p>Congress has yet to reach a resolution. The Senate has been unable to pass a short-term funding bill, while the House remains out of session. Both sides continue to place blame on each other, with no clear end to the shutdown in sight.</p><p>Experts warn that if the shutdown continues, the economic impact could deepen, affecting not only federal employees but also local communities and industries that rely on government programs and support.</p><h2>What This Means for You</h2><ul>
                        <li>Federal employees and contractors: Many remain furloughed and may experience delayed pay. Some have received notices of potential layoffs.
</li><li>Farmers and rural communities: Assistance programs through agencies like the USDA may be delayed, affecting loan approvals, disaster aid, and other services.
</li><li>Local businesses: Companies that rely on federal contracts or government funding could face interruptions or delayed payments.
</li><li>Residents and travelers: Federal offices, research centers, and popular attractions like museums may be closed, and public services could be slower.
</li><li>Everyone: Delays in federal reports, data releases, and grant processing could affect planning for businesses, schools, and local governments.
</li>
                    </ul><p>The shutdown’s effects are spreading beyond Washington, and how long it continues will determine the depth of its impact on workers, communities, and local economies.</p>

Nebraska Feels the Impact of Federal Shutdown on Day 13: Paychecks, Programs, and Services Delayed

After 740 days in captivity, the last remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza have been released, marking a major milestone in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Families and communities in Israel are welcoming their loved ones home, ending a prolonged period of uncertainty and fear.

The release came as part of a broader agreement negotiated with international mediation. Under the deal, Israel agreed to release a number of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the safe return of the hostages, alongside arrangements for the retrieval of deceased hostages’ remains. The agreement also includes discussions on partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and the future governance of Gaza, signaling a potential step toward easing tensions in the region.

Emotional reunions unfolded across Israel as families embraced their relatives after years apart. Public gatherings, including a large gathering in Tel Aviv, highlighted the relief and hope that accompanies the hostages’ return.

Despite the release, challenges remain. Hamas has reportedly deployed fighters within Gaza as a display of strength, underscoring the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the continuing security concerns. Diplomats emphasize that long-term peace will require further negotiations on disarmament, border security, and humanitarian access in Gaza.

The release follows months of stalled talks and previous failed ceasefire attempts, demonstrating the persistence of diplomatic efforts in the region. Analysts suggest that while this event is a significant breakthrough, the path toward stability in Gaza and the wider Middle East remains complex and uncertain.

For the families of the hostages, the focus is now on rebuilding their lives and moving forward after years of waiting. For Israel and the international community, the challenge will be to ensure that the fragile agreement holds and to prevent future escalations.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760373880835.jpeg" alt="People react as they gather to watch a live broadcast of Israeli hostages released from Gaza at a plaza known as hostages square in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025. (Photo by Oded Balilty)" />
                        <figcaption>People react as they gather to watch a live broadcast of Israeli hostages released from Gaza at a plaza known as hostages square in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025. (Photo by Oded Balilty)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>After 740 days in captivity, the last remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza have been released, marking a major milestone in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Families and communities in Israel are welcoming their loved ones home, ending a prolonged period of uncertainty and fear.</p><p>The release came as part of a broader agreement negotiated with international mediation. Under the deal, Israel agreed to release a number of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the safe return of the hostages, alongside arrangements for the retrieval of deceased hostages’ remains. The agreement also includes discussions on partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and the future governance of Gaza, signaling a potential step toward easing tensions in the region.</p><p>Emotional reunions unfolded across Israel as families embraced their relatives after years apart. Public gatherings, including a large gathering in Tel Aviv, highlighted the relief and hope that accompanies the hostages’ return.</p><p>Despite the release, challenges remain. Hamas has reportedly deployed fighters within Gaza as a display of strength, underscoring the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the continuing security concerns. Diplomats emphasize that long-term peace will require further negotiations on disarmament, border security, and humanitarian access in Gaza.</p><p>The release follows months of stalled talks and previous failed ceasefire attempts, demonstrating the persistence of diplomatic efforts in the region. Analysts suggest that while this event is a significant breakthrough, the path toward stability in Gaza and the wider Middle East remains complex and uncertain.</p><p>For the families of the hostages, the focus is now on rebuilding their lives and moving forward after years of waiting. For Israel and the international community, the challenge will be to ensure that the fragile agreement holds and to prevent future escalations.</p>

Final Israeli Hostages Released from Gaza After Two Years in Captivity

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760359689454.png" alt="President Trump addressed Israeli lawmakers on Monday-image from White House video" />
                        <figcaption>President Trump addressed Israeli lawmakers on Monday-image from White House video</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;The God who once dwelled among His people in this city still calls us, in the words of Scripture, to turn from evil and do good, to seek peace and pursue it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/eje68UKUDM">pic.twitter.com/eje68UKUDM</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977709528847098045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> enters the Knesset chamber 🇺🇸🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/4YUnh0QND7">pic.twitter.com/4YUnh0QND7</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1977684923046924454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;This is not only the End of a war—it is the END of an age of terror and death, and the BEGINNING of the age of faith, hope, and of God... This is the historic dawn of a new Middle East.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/TKIO6tBSTw">pic.twitter.com/TKIO6tBSTw</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977695027796074975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Two members of the Israeli Knesset were expelled after holding up signs that said “Recognize Palestine” during President Trump&#39;s speech. <a href="https://t.co/mH76QRC72Z">pic.twitter.com/mH76QRC72Z</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1977746003424866740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Two years ago... thousands of innocent Israeli civilians were attacked by terrorists in one of the most evil and heinous desecrations of innocent life the world has ever seen... please know that America joins you in those two everlasting vows—NEVER FORGET, and NEVER… <a href="https://t.co/PwzVakflqC">pic.twitter.com/PwzVakflqC</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977699108501491739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Across the Middle East, the forces of chaos, terror, and ruin that have plagued the region for decades now stand weakened... defeated. A new coalition of proud and responsible nations is emerging—and because of us, the enemies of all civilization are in retreat.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/unJ2OwMt5u">pic.twitter.com/unJ2OwMt5u</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977701204927840276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Israel has won all that they can by force of arms. Now, it&#39;s time to translate these victories against terrorists on the battlefield into the ultimate prize of PEACE and PROSPERITY for the entire Middle East.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/dzf2cBIiyG">pic.twitter.com/dzf2cBIiyG</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977702879839257056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Generations from now, this will be remembered as the moment that everything began to change... Like the USA right now, it will be the GOLDEN AGE of Israel and the Golden Age of the Middle East.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/kENG7rR2kZ">pic.twitter.com/kENG7rR2kZ</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977695578336243823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;It should now be clear to everyone throughout the region that decades of fomenting terrorism and extremism, jihadism and anti-Semitism, have not worked... From Gaza to Iran, those bitter hatreds have delivered nothing but misery, suffering, failure, and death.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HKtypitPn1">pic.twitter.com/HKtypitPn1</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977704241121710511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;The choice for Palestinians could not be more clear. This is their chance to turn forever from the path of terror and violence... The total focus of Gazans must be on restoring the fundamentals... so they can finally have the better life their children deserve.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/cxpfhYmVZb">pic.twitter.com/cxpfhYmVZb</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977704795679977965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;It&#39;s more obvious than ever that the productive and responsible nations of this region should not be enemies or adversaries, you should be partners — and eventually even friends.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/0W7sAddq3Q">pic.twitter.com/0W7sAddq3Q</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977705304805527634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Instead of making weapons and missiles, the wealth of this region should flow to schools and medicine, industry... it could have happened a long time ago, but it was strangled and set back... by the administrations of Barack Obama and then Joe Biden.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/mnNYQYoJO3">pic.twitter.com/mnNYQYoJO3</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977706853539647703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> to the Knesset: &quot;The story of fierce Israeli resolve and triumph since October 7th should be proof to the entire world that those who seek to destroy this nation are doomed to bitter failure. The State of Israel is strong — and it will live and thrive forever.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/WESzRo5Zg0">pic.twitter.com/WESzRo5Zg0</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977706960590963074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Over the past two years, I&#39;ve met many of the families of Israelis taken hostage... I have looked into their eyes, and seen the worst nightmares of their suffering. But I have also seen something else—the beautiful LOVE of the people... the love that gives you the… <a href="https://t.co/zhYAVslLwW">pic.twitter.com/zhYAVslLwW</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977708950892982550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We have built industries together, we have made discoveries together, we have confronted evil together... and perhaps most beautifully of all, we have made PEACE together. And this week, against all odds, we have done the IMPOSSIBLE, and brought our hostages home.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/mPMXQP3oJr">pic.twitter.com/mPMXQP3oJr</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977709898247852440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump references the Bible in speech to Israeli lawmakers

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It’s official: There are no more living Israeli hostages in Hamas captivity. <a href="https://t.co/qa1Lh4vhhv">pic.twitter.com/qa1Lh4vhhv</a></p>&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1977659327088599298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We’ve been waiting for this moment for so, so long. PURE JOY.<br><br>But it won’t be complete until the last hostage is home.<br><br>Credit: Danor Aharon <a href="https://t.co/P9I2Ebni0S">pic.twitter.com/P9I2Ebni0S</a></p>&mdash; Bring Them Home Now (@bringhomenow) <a href="https://twitter.com/bringhomenow/status/1977614940270936376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“I want to sincerely thank you” ❤️ <br><br>President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> meets with hostage families and listens to their stories <a href="https://t.co/SNQCpTVUU4">pic.twitter.com/SNQCpTVUU4</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1977668287258595604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Hamas releases remaining living hostages as part of Gaza ceasefire

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760115585607.png" alt="File photo President Trump speaking to reporters on Friday -from White House video" />
                        <figcaption>File photo President Trump speaking to reporters on Friday -from White House video</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qme" dir="ltr">🚨 <a href="https://t.co/kmn7DNKgIv">pic.twitter.com/kmn7DNKgIv</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1977065808741515751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump delivers for the troops. <a href="https://t.co/iZOvn2GULG">pic.twitter.com/iZOvn2GULG</a></p>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/1977066803601031594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump identifies funds to ensure troops are paid despite shutdown

Authorities are investigating after skeletal remains were discovered near Scotts Bluff National Monument, drawing a large law enforcement and emergency response to the area Saturday morning.

According to Gering Police Capt. Jason Rogers, officers received a phone call Friday afternoon from a reporting party who said they saw what appeared to be human remains near the north side of the monument. The area was secured, and investigators returned to the scene Saturday morning to continue the search and documentation.

Reports indicate the discovery drew attention around 10 a.m. Saturday, after a man walking his dog observed activity near the site. Officials believe the remains may have first been spotted around 6 p.m. Friday evening.

In addition to Gering Police, the response included Gering Fire and Rescue, officers with the National Park Service, and the Scotts Bluff County CERT Team. The Nebraska State Patrol also assisted at the scene, with radio communications noting the use of LE Secure 5 — a channel typically reserved for the most sensitive investigations.

An officer on scene said the remains appear to have been there for several years. The Scotts Bluff County coroner’s office is assisting with examination and identification, and the National Park Service has been notified due to the monument’s proximity to federal land.

Capt. Rogers said it will be a lengthy process to determine both the identity of the individual and a possible cause of death, one that will require the assistance of a forensic laboratory.

Englebert Family Notified
On Saturday, the mother of Chance Englebert publicly confirmed she had been contacted by Gering Police regarding the discovery. Englebert, a Wyoming man, was 25 when he disappeared in July 2019 after reportedly walking away from a family gathering in Gering following a dispute. Despite years of searches involving drones, K9 units, and volunteers, no trace of him was found.

Authorities have not confirmed any connection between the remains and the Englebert case, though speculation has circulated locally.

Scotts Bluff National Monument, a landmark along the historic Oregon Trail, occasionally becomes the focus of search or recovery operations due to its rugged terrain and remote sections. Officials have not said whether any public trails or areas have been closed during the investigation.

Capt. Rogers said the investigation remains ongoing and that further information will be released as results become available.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760219474047.png" alt="&nbsp; Photo courtesy Kelly Mumm / Facebook" />
                        <figcaption>&nbsp; Photo courtesy Kelly Mumm / Facebook</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Authorities are investigating after skeletal remains were discovered near Scotts Bluff National Monument, drawing a large law enforcement and emergency response to the area Saturday morning.</p><p>According to Gering Police Capt. Jason Rogers, officers received a phone call Friday afternoon from a reporting party who said they saw what appeared to be human remains near the north side of the monument. The area was secured, and investigators returned to the scene Saturday morning to continue the search and documentation.</p><p>Reports indicate the discovery drew attention around 10 a.m. Saturday, after a man walking his dog observed activity near the site. Officials believe the remains may have first been spotted around 6 p.m. Friday evening.</p><p>In addition to Gering Police, the response included Gering Fire and Rescue, officers with the National Park Service, and the Scotts Bluff County CERT Team. The Nebraska State Patrol also assisted at the scene, with radio communications noting the use of LE Secure 5 — a channel typically reserved for the most sensitive investigations.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760219574221.jpeg" alt="

Photo courtesy Kelly Mumm / Facebook" />
                        <figcaption>

Photo courtesy Kelly Mumm / Facebook</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>An officer on scene said the remains appear to have been there for several years. The Scotts Bluff County coroner’s office is assisting with examination and identification, and the National Park Service has been notified due to the monument’s proximity to federal land.</p><p>Capt. Rogers said it will be a lengthy process to determine both the identity of the individual and a possible cause of death, one that will require the assistance of a forensic laboratory.</p><p>Englebert Family Notified
On Saturday, the mother of Chance Englebert publicly confirmed she had been contacted by Gering Police regarding the discovery. Englebert, a Wyoming man, was 25 when he disappeared in July 2019 after reportedly walking away from a family gathering in Gering following a dispute. Despite years of searches involving drones, K9 units, and volunteers, no trace of him was found.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Ffindchanceenglebert%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02SEWqWNXxCXgfUcpMEqAtQyi4uqJa4spxGRfffwdU43MuxVuw3hnUeHNDkx2X1QvXl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="736" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><p>Authorities have not confirmed any connection between the remains and the Englebert case, though speculation has circulated locally.</p><p>Scotts Bluff National Monument, a landmark along the historic Oregon Trail, occasionally becomes the focus of search or recovery operations due to its rugged terrain and remote sections. Officials have not said whether any public trails or areas have been closed during the investigation.</p><p>Capt. Rogers said the investigation remains ongoing and that further information will be released as results become available.</p><p><i>This is a developing story.</i></p>

Remains Discovered Near Scotts Bluff National Monument Under Investigation; Englebert Family Notified

<br>OCTOBER 10, 2025 (HASTINGS, NEB.) — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a person wanted out of Pennsylvania after a pursuit in central Nebraska.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. Thursday, NSP received information that a man being sought by Pennsylvania law enforcement was believed to be traveling through Nebraska. The subject was believed to be traveling in a Mercedes SUV.

At approximately 9:40 p.m. a trooper located the vehicle and the subject at a gas station at the Alda interchange on Interstate 80, at mile marker 305. As the trooper attempted to make contact, the subject drove away, ripping the fuel hose away from the vehicle. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562084161517.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><br>OCTOBER 10, 2025 (HASTINGS, NEB.) — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a person wanted out of Pennsylvania after a pursuit in central Nebraska.</p><p>At approximately 9:30 p.m. Thursday, NSP received information that a man being sought by Pennsylvania law enforcement was believed to be traveling through Nebraska. The subject was believed to be traveling in a Mercedes SUV.</p><p>At approximately 9:40 p.m. a trooper located the vehicle and the subject at a gas station at the Alda interchange on Interstate 80, at mile marker 305. As the trooper attempted to make contact, the subject drove away, ripping the fuel hose away from the vehicle. The trooper initiated a pursuit.</p><p>The driver fled southbound on Alda Road, with speeds above 120 miles per hour. After several miles, the driver drove into a corn field, stopped, and fled on foot. Additional troopers, personnel, and K9 units from other police and sheriff departments also responded to the area.</p><p>Thermal drones were used to locate the suspect, who was taken into custody without further incident just after 12:00 a.m. Friday.</p><p>The suspect, Antonio Lindsay, 58, of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, was medically cleared and lodged in Adams County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, criminal mischief, obstruction, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to obey a lawful order.</p><p>Lindsay was wanted in Pennsylvania for aggravated assault and other charges.</p><p>NSP was assisted by the Hastings Police Department, Grand Island Police Department, Kearney Police Department, Colfax County Sheriff’s Office, Merrick County Sheriff’s Office, and Adams County Sheriff’s Office. </p>