FEBRUARY 9, 2026 (LEXINGTON, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp; —&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Colorado man after locating 116 pounds of marijuana processing material during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 in Dawson County.

At approximately 2:30 p.m., Sunday, a trooper observed a westbound vehicle speeding on I-80 near mile marker 238. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected a marijuana odor coming from the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 116 pounds of marijuana resin, wax, and vape. Also located were items for processing marijuana into smaller portions. Dawson County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the search.

The driver, Dylan Worrall, 24, of Colorado, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no tax stamp. He was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

116 LBs of Drug Paraphernalia Found in I-80 Traffic Stop

The Hot Sheets: February 10, 2026

Story by&nbsp;Ogallala Regional Arts Council

The fourth concert in the 2025/26 season will feature Steve Lungrin, an internationally known singer-songwriter, independent recording artist, performer, and web-based piano teacher with roots in Nebraska.

Lungrin’s program will feature favorites by Billy Joel and Elton John, along with Broadway standouts. The Willow &amp; Oak facility adds a special touch to this Lungrin’s performance, an intimate and airy hall with refreshments available and tables full of friends and family enjoying every note.

Lungrin’s musical path began at age 7, and he has performed professionally for over 30 years. He is an Ogallala native, and his father was a local business hour, founder of the Rendezvous event, and partner with Jim Thalken announcing high school sports. Steve was particularly inspired by the singer-songwriters of the ‘60s, '70s, and '80s, his piano idols Billy Joel &amp; Elton John. Lungrin has performed as a soloist and as part of various ensembles at venues ranging from the Greeley, CO Jazz Festival, Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, MO, Canadian Wonderland in Toronto, ON (Canada), the White House lawn in Washington, DC, and Carnegie Hall in New York City. He was the first-ever Cornhusker State Games Talent Competition Gold Medalist in 1995, where he performed his signature song, Billy Joel's "Piano Man," for over 5,000 people at the tender age of 17.

His creativity also led him to develop a teaching method in 2011 that he dubbed the Piano Man Approach. Lungrin has a busy schedule of live performances while teaching, composing, and releasing his own music.

Tickets are available at the door. ORAC members will be admitted with membership cards. Those who have not purchased a membership may purchase individual tickets ($15 for adults and $7 for students). Willow &amp; Oak Events is located at 801 Diamond Springs Trail, Ogallala, Nebraska, and the show begins at 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Doors will open at 3:30.

With the support of the Nebraska Arts Council, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, donations, and your purchase of tickets or memberships, ORAC brings world-class live entertainment year after year.

For more information about the program, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ogallalaarts@gmail.com">ogallalaarts@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;

Steve Lungrin concert rescheduled for Feb. 22

The Hot Sheets: February 9, 2026

Ogallala, Neb. - The Ogallala City Council will meet Tuesday, February 10, at 7 p.m. for its regular meeting, with council members expected to consider filling a vacant council seat and review several public transportation items.

One of the key items on the agenda is the appointment to fill a vacant City Council position. The council is scheduled to take action on the appointment during the meeting.

Council members will also consider the consent agenda, which includes approval of the minutes from the January 27, 2026, regular meeting and the City Clerk-Treasurer’s financial report for January 2026.

The meeting agenda includes time for a public hearing and a public forum, allowing residents to address the council on agenda items and other city-related matters.

Under reports from departments, boards, and committees, the council is expected to consider a special fee schedule for public transportation through Resolution 2323, as well as the Federal Transit Administration Title VI Program for 2026.

Additional reports are scheduled from the City Attorney, City Manager, and City Council members. The City Manager is expected to provide project updates during the meeting.

The agenda notes that the council may adjourn into closed session if necessary, in accordance with Nebraska Revised Statutes, to discuss matters including personnel, real estate transactions, or potential litigation.

The Ogallala City Council meeting is open to the public.

Ogallala City Council to Address Vacant Seat, Transit Items at Feb. 10 Meeting

The Hot Sheets: February 8, 2026

The Hot Sheets: February 7, 2026

North Platte, NE&nbsp;— Heather French Henry, recognized veterans advocate and Strategic Outreach Director for Global Game Changers Student Empowerment Program, will lead a series of community and leadership-focused events in North Platte, Nebraska, during Crowns for Gowns Weekend, February 6–8, 2026.

French Henry will serve as emcee of the Miss High Plains Scholarship Competition on Friday, February 6, at 7:00 p.m. at the McDonald-Belton Theater, supporting young women competing for scholarships and a chance to compete for Miss Nebraska, an official state competition for Miss America.

On Saturday, February 7, French Henry will lead workshops designed specifically for participants in the Miss Nebraska Organization, focusing on leadership identity, communication, personal branding, and understanding the responsibility that comes with service-driven platforms. The sessions will also introduce elements of the Free Global Game Changers Elementary School Curriculum, which helps students recognize their individual strengths—or “superpowers”—and apply them toward positive community impact through their unique equation&nbsp;MY TALENT + MY HEART = MY SUPERPOWER!®&nbsp;

Later that day, French Henry will serve as keynote speaker at a Community Luncheon, open to the public, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at North 40. Her remarks will center on service, leadership, and the idea that every woman possesses unique “superpowers” that can be used to build their own confidence and strengthen their communities.

“Service is one of the greatest superpowers we can cultivate,”&nbsp;said French Henry.&nbsp;“Whether I’m speaking to the public or mentoring young women within the Miss Nebraska Organization, the message is the same: leadership is not about a title, but about how you choose to show up for others. Nebraska has always embraced that spirit of service, and I’m honored to visit North Platte to share that message.”

French Henry has a long-standing connection to Nebraska, including previous collaborations with The Durham Museum, where she partnered on the beloved&nbsp;White Christmas Collection&nbsp;celebrating American cultural heritage. The collection is scheduled to return to Omaha during the 2026 holiday season.

About Heather French Henry, Miss America 2000

Crowned as Miss America 2000 Heather French Henry has spent more than two decades advancing service-driven leadership at the local, state, and national levels. A nationally recognized advocate for veterans and military families, she previously served as Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs and continues to work with organizations across the country to elevate education, service, and civic engagement. Through her leadership with Global Game Changers, French Henry empowers young people to recognize their potential, develop character, and use their voices to create meaningful change in their communities. For more information about her work, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.heatherfrenchhenry.com/">https://www.heatherfrenchhenry.com/</a>&nbsp;

Global Game Changers® is a project-based program that provides teacher-tested, evidence-based,&nbsp;FREE&nbsp;Pre-K – 5th grade curriculum and resources that use service learning and talent development as tools to nurture children’s social, emotional, leadership, and academic growth. With a motto to&nbsp;IGNITE GOOD!®, the lessons use a simple equation:&nbsp;MY TALENT + MY HEART = MY SUPERPOWER!®&nbsp;to lay the foundation for nurturing engaged and successful citizens and leaders. Students explore their hearts, uncover their true talents, and develop the self-confidence they need to succeed in life. Global Game Changers is grant funded and free online to educators and parents thanks to the generous support of David Novak Leadership Foundation which believes in developing better leaders at every stage of life. For more information or to get involved with the program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://globalgamechangers.org/">https://globalgamechangers.org/</a>

More information about Crowns for Gowns Weekend and scheduled events can be found at<a target="_blank" href="https://www.crownsandgowns.com/events">https://www.crownsandgowns.com/events</a>.

Miss America 2000, Heather French Henry, Headlines Community Luncheon & Workshops in North Platte Discussing Service and Superpowers!

The Hot Sheets: February 6, 2026

The 35th Annual Buffalo Bill Farm &amp; Ranch Expo wraps up today with its second and final day, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the D &amp; N Event Center in North Platte.

The two-day event is hosted by the North Platte Chamber and Development’s Agribusiness Committee and brings together ag producers, businesses, and community members from across the region for exhibits, demonstrations, and conversations focused on agriculture and rural life.

The Post provided coverage throughout the expo on its Facebook page, along with on-site coverage from Z 93.5 Country and Q Country Classics 107.3. Below are just a few of the video interviews captured during the event.

Watch and listen for more coverage on Thursday, presented by Justin Thompson Agency with American Family Insurance.

Day Two Underway at 2026 Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch Expo

The Hot Sheets: February 5, 2026

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to talk about the team's most recent 2 games and how he plans to prepare for a tough rematch against Lamar Community College on Saturday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #14 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, to discuss a historic win for the Women's team as they toppled Western Nebraska Community College 63-60, their first win against the Cougars since the 1984-1985 season.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #11 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview with Joe Richeson on our Kubota Podcast

Central Nebraska community partners are coming together to host a free Ag Health and Safety Event, Cultivating Health, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, in Gothenburg.

The event will be held at the Dayspring Bank Event Center and is designed to take a broad look at the health, safety, and day-to-day challenges involved in agriculture and rural life.

Joe Richeson, one of the organizers, said the event goes beyond traditional safety training.

“This isn’t hard-hat safety or excavation safety,” Richeson said. “It’s more of a top-down approach to what it takes to run an ag operation, whether you’re a producer, farmer, rancher, or involved in ag in some other way.”

Sessions throughout the day will cover a wide range of topics, including mental health, distracted driving, water quality and quantity, nitrates in drinking water, occupational safety, and nutrition for long workdays in the field.

Presenters include the Nebraska Trucking Association, members of the governor’s groundwater task force, Nebraska Medicine, and an occupational therapist focusing on safe movement and body mechanics. A session on food preparation will also address how to safely prepare energy-rich meals for long days during planting, harvesting, or livestock work.

Richeson said the event is open to anyone, not just those directly involved in agriculture.

“You don’t have to be ag-related to attend,” he said. “Ag touches everyone’s life every day, whether you realize it or not.”

Spouses and family members are encouraged to attend, particularly for the mental health session, which focuses on coping with the stresses unique to the agricultural industry, including markets, employees, and daily uncertainty.

The event begins at 10:30 a.m. Exhibit booths will be set up by noon and remain open until 4 p.m., with sessions concluding at 4 p.m. A business-after-hours event will follow from 4 to 7 p.m.

Attendees may come and go throughout the day and are not required to stay for all sessions. A free lunch will be provided, and local FFA members will assist during the event.

Health screenings will also be available through Gothenburg Health, with options for multiple screenings, including full blood work for those who choose to fast.

Registration is not required but is encouraged. Information is available on the Gothenburg Health Facebook page, the Gothenburg Irrigation Facebook page, or by contacting Richeson directly at 308-529-1181.

The free event is open to the public and will take place at the Dayspring Bank Event Center in Gothenburg on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

🎙️Central Nebraska Partners to Host Free Ag Health and Safety Event in Gothenburg

Listen to the full interview with Megan Doughty on our Kubota Podcast

NORTH PLATTE — The Miss Nebraska Organization will return to North Platte in early February for its annual Crowns and Gowns weekend, bringing pageant events, leadership workshops and a former Miss America to the community.

Crowns and Gowns is scheduled for Feb. 6–8 and serves as the final local competition opportunity for contestants before the Miss Nebraska state pageant in June. Events are centered around professional development for young women ages 14 to 27, as well as public activities open to the community.

This year’s weekend will feature Heather French Henry, Miss America 2000, who will serve as a keynote guest throughout the weekend. French Henry will emcee the local Miss Nebraska competition on Friday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. at Mid-Plains Community College. Doors are expected to open at 6:30 p.m., with tickets available at the door.

She will also headline a Women’s Empowerment Luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at North 40 Chophouse. Tickets for the luncheon are available online at MissNebraska.org.

Megan Doughty, executive director of the Miss Nebraska Organization, said Crowns and Gowns is designed to help young women grow far beyond the stage.

“The word ‘pageant’ is really a misnomer anymore,” Doughty said. “It’s about developing personal passions, advocacy and life skills that carry through long after competition.”

Throughout the weekend, delegates will participate in workshops focused on interview skills, public speaking, branding, advocacy development and community engagement. Professional hair and makeup services, headshot photography and private gown appointments will also be offered.

The local competition includes personal interviews with judges, on-stage questions, fitness wear, evening gown and talent segments. Scholarships are awarded based on placement and special awards.

According to Doughty, the Miss Nebraska Organization awards more than $40,000 annually in cash scholarships, along with access to more than $1 million in tuition scholarships through partnerships with Nebraska colleges and universities.

The current titleholders include Miss Nebraska’s Teen Gabriella Swift of North Platte and Miss Nebraska 2025 Mackenzie Gregory of Scottsbluff.

Doughty said community support has helped make North Platte a key location for pageant events statewide.

“We’re bringing young women from across Nebraska to experience our community,” she said. “It’s about showcasing North Platte while helping these delegates realize their potential.”

More information, including luncheon tickets and registration details for prospective contestants, is available at MissNebraska.org.

🎙️Crowns and Gowns Weekend Brings Miss America 2000, Workshops to North Platte

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, to discuss a difficult away weekend to Lamar, where the Knights fell 63-51.&nbsp;

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #10 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview with Melissa Ewert on our Kubota Podcast

Ogallala, Neb. - The Ogallala YMCA is building momentum heading into February with new members, upcoming fitness challenges, expanded class offerings, and plans to introduce indoor pickleball.

Melissa Ewert, branch executive director of the Ogallala YMCA, said last week’s “Try the Y Day” event was a success despite extremely cold weather.

“We did about 15 to 20 memberships and I would say half of those were new members and half were renewals that day,” Ewert said.

While evening class attendance was lighter than expected due to the cold, Ewert said the event still achieved its main goal: introducing new people to the facility.

“There were so many new faces that I had never seen, and that was the plan for this — to get new people in, get them interested and get them comfortable coming in,” she said.

Personal training also saw a boost, with around five new clients signing up. Ewert said trainer Amber was busy with consultations throughout the day.

“That alone made the day a success,” she said.

The YMCA is also adding two new Silver Sneakers classes beginning next week. The classes are designed for beginners, people returning to exercise after a long break, or those recovering from illness or injury.

One class, Silver Sneakers Classic, will focus on low-impact strength training using weights, bands and balls. The second is a chair yoga class. Both will be led by instructor Kim.

Ewert said the classes are meant to help people ease back into physical activity.

“You should never just think, ‘I took this many months off, I’m going to jump right back into where I started,’ because that does not happen,” she said.

Youth basketball is also getting underway, with coaches now contacting families. Games are scheduled to begin February 22.

In addition, the YMCA has launched a Gratitude Miles Challenge. Members can track the miles they walk, run, bike or swim, and write something they’re grateful for on a board in the lobby.

“It’s a good way to remind people that we should be thankful for our health and for our families, and just keep them motivated to continue moving,” Ewert said.

A larger 50-mile challenge is also planned for runners, bikers and swimmers. The first participant in each category to reach 50 miles will receive a prize. Lifters can participate through a separate challenge based on combined weight totals from bench press, deadlift and squat.

Participants must submit videos of their lifts for verification, and winners will be recognized by gender and age groups.

One of the most anticipated additions is indoor pickleball. The YMCA will be adding pickleball court lines to its basketball court, allowing community members to play throughout the winter.

“We’re going to set up times where people can come in and play pickleball here at the Y,” Ewert said.

She noted that many residents currently travel to nearby communities for indoor pickleball, and this will provide a closer option.

Pickleball’s growing popularity reflects the YMCA’s mission of community engagement, something Ewert says is central to the organization’s identity.

“Being able to work for people who want to build our community and do things for our youth in town and just build those relationships with everyone that comes in the door is pretty special,” she said.

Ewert said the growth at the Ogallala YMCA over the past year has been significant, with expanded programs and increased participation.

“Sometimes change is growing pain, but I can say this has been painless for change,” she said.

Ogallala YMCA Sees Membership Boost, Announces New Classes and Fitness Challenges

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss a successful three-game homestand against Region 9 South opponents.&nbsp;

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #13 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed an the first back-to-back of 2026 and what it meant for team to see the hard work starting to pay off.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #9 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview with Ogallala City Manager Kevin Wilkins on our Kubota Podcast

Ogallala City Council Approves Board Appointments, Infrastructure Plans, and Airport Updates

OGALLALA — The Ogallala City Council kicked off 2026 by approving appointments to multiple city boards, discussing ongoing infrastructure projects, and reviewing plans for airport improvements at Monday night’s meeting.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins highlighted several new board appointments, including the city’s newly formed Historic Preservation Commission. 

“Ogallala is now one of 12 certified local governments with the Nebraska Historic Preservation Commission,” Wilkins said. Barb Jeffries was appointed to a two-year term, and Cody Quinn will serve three years.

 The commission plans to meet January 27, with Nebraska State Historical Preservation Director Kelly Bacon attending to discuss potential updates to the Historic Overlay at Ogallala Middle School.

Additional appointments included Ray Diaz and Jordan Namath to three-year terms on the Planning and Zoning Commission and Richard Kester to the Tree Board. Wilkins encouraged residents interested in trees to apply for the remaining openings.

The council also reviewed updates from the Ogallala YMCA, which has seen growing participation in programs and the city’s pool. Wilkins said the pool’s attendance has “probably tripled” under new management.

 “If you’re going to spend the money, you want to see people using it,” he said. Officials are exploring the possibility of forming a local swim team and expanding youth programming.

Infrastructure needs were also a major topic, including the cost of repairs following a lift station failure on the south side of town. Wilkins explained that the pumps were “probably undersized for the job” and that both failed simultaneously, leading to an emergency discharge of wastewater into a contained area of the river. 

He added, “Fortunately, there was a valve on it, so we got that fixed,” and the city expects the repairs to cost about $200,000.

At the airport, council members approved issuing a request for proposals for a fixed-base operator at Serial Field. Wilkins said the goal is to increase aviation-related business and streamline fuel sales. 

“We would really just like to have more activity at that airport,” he said. Plans include $8 million in runway improvements and additional hangar capacity.

The council also discussed long-term street and drainage projects, including a proposed half-cent infrastructure sales tax aimed at funding repairs while reducing property tax burdens. 

Wilkins said, “Once a lot of your costs are in mobilizing and engineering, you can get some efficiencies. That’s the kind of momentum we need within the community.”

City officials plan to implement online permitting through the Planning and Building Department by February 9 to streamline applications for residents and businesses. 

Wilkins concluded, “We’re just going to keep rocking and rolling in the City of Ogallala.”

🎙️Ogallala City Council Moves Forward on Boards, Infrastructure, and Airport Plans

Listen to the full interview with Lane Anderson on our Kubota Podcast

Keith County, Neb. - Keith County Commissioner Lane Anderson shared updates from the county’s January 14 meeting during a recent radio interview, outlining several ongoing projects and administrative actions.

Among the key items discussed were the setting of county elected official salaries and the county’s insurance renewal process. The board also completed its annual reorganization, with Corey Crandall continuing as chairman of the Keith County Board of Commissioners.

Commissioners reviewed year-end reports and discussed creating a nuisance application process that could be used when applying for nuisance-related grants. The county highway department completed its annual fuel bids and recently purchased a scraper and disc in an effort to improve county road maintenance.

Anderson also noted recent personnel changes. Longtime Keith County employee Lori Hood retired after 40 years of service. Commissioners appointed J.D. Cartwright to fill her role as the county’s new Emergency Operations Center director.

Additional updates included ongoing EMS-related discussions, current jail population numbers, and road conditions impacted by dry winter weather. Anderson said he plans to provide regular monthly updates moving forward and confirmed he will be running for re-election this year.

🎙️Keith County Commissioners January 14 Update

TUCSON —Over the last eight days, the FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Department have been working closely with our private sector partners to continue to&nbsp;recover any images or video footage from Nancy Guthrie’s home that may have been lost, corrupted, or inaccessible due to a variety of factors - including the removal of recording devices, according to a statement from the FBI.

 The video was recovered from residual data located in backend systems.
&nbsp;
Working with our partners - as of Tuesday morning, law enforcement&nbsp; uncovered these previously inaccessible new images showing an armed&nbsp;individual appearing to have tampered with the camera at Nancy Guthrie's front door&nbsp;the morning&nbsp;of her disappearance.
&nbsp;

Anyone with information, please contact 1-800-CALL-FBI&nbsp;or visit <a href="https://t.co/m55w5cqC7Y" target="_blank">http://tips.fbi.gov</a>

🎥FBI: Video from Guthrie home shows masked person

🎥US military boards sanctioned oil tanker in the Indian Ocean after pursuit

State’s top election official has said he plans to hand the data to the Justice Department later this week

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/jsalinas/">Juan Salinas II</a> <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN – A Lancaster County District Court judge dismissed a lawsuit without prejudice late last week that sought to stop the state from handing over its voter data to the U.S. Department of Justice.&nbsp;

District Judge Lori Maret said in her Friday ruling that Common Cause lacks standing to sue because the alleged harm is speculative and not imminent, and ruling now would not end the controversy surrounding the DOJ request, including what information the Justice Department would ultimately seek or what Nebraska would provide.&nbsp;She also did not rule on the legal question at the heart of the lawsuit.

The judge&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/01/29/court-hears-lawsuit-seeking-to-stop-nebraska-from-releasing-voter-data-to-federal-government/">heard arguments</a>&nbsp;last month. Common Cause argued that Nebraska law affords federal officials no special rights to access residents’ private information included in parts of the voter file. The state argued that federal agencies still play a valuable role in elections overseen by states, noting that the federal government has a wealth of information and resources that help states with election systems.

Voting advocacy group Common Cause has appealed the ruling to the Nebraska Court of Appeals, which gave the case a docket number. Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen has said he plans to hand over the voter data to the DOJ on Thursday.&nbsp;

Evnen told reporters last week that he plans to send a letter to the DOJ with the voter data to remind the agency of “its obligation under law to keep the information confidential and to honor the privacy statutes of our country and our state.”

Federal officials have asked states for names, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers and the last four digits of voters’ Social Security numbers, saying they want the information to ensure accurate voter registration rolls, based on reporting in other states. In Nebraska, the information maintained is more limited.

The Justice Department has requested voter data from 44 states and Washington, D.C. so far, with plans to ask for that information from all 50 states. A few GOP-led states have declined or not responded, citing privacy concerns. A majority of Democratic-run states have declined to turn over the information.

Critics have questioned the safety of letting any presidential administration consolidate state voter data in one place. The federal government has sued more than 20 states and the District of Columbia for not complying.

“We believe in the merits of this case, and we will exhaust every option to protect voters,” said Gavin Geis, Common Cause’s Nebraska Executive Director. “Nebraskans shouldn’t have to wait until they experience catastrophic harm to demand that the state protect their private data.”&nbsp;

A federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/justice-department/federal-judge-dismisses-doj-lawsuit-seeking-oregon-voter-rolls-rcna256069" target="_blank">dismissed</a>&nbsp;the Justice Department’s lawsuit seeking Oregon’s voter data last month.&nbsp;The DOJ asked&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/01/24/us/pam-bondi-walz-doc.html" target="_blank">Minnesota</a>&nbsp;to hand over its voter rolls as part of a federal offer to reduce the presence of&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/29/homan-im-staying-til-the-problem-is-gone/" target="_blank">thousands of immigration agents in the state</a>&nbsp;last month.

The Secretary of State’s Office, in a statement Monday afternoon, confirmed that Evnen intends to hand over the data on Thursday.&nbsp;The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office declined to comment.

Nebraska judge tosses lawsuit to keep state from releasing voter data to feds

On Monday at the direction of U.S. Southern Command commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. 

Two narco-terrorists were killed and one survived the strike. Following the engagement, USSOUTHCOM immediately notified U.S. Coast Guard to activate the Search and Rescue system for the survivor.&nbsp;

🎥Two dead after another US strike on a drug boat

Judiciary Committee hears collection of bills aimed at improving state’s domestic violence response

By Erin Bamer <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers considered a slate of bills Friday aimed at improving protections for victims of domestic violence, including one that would require the people against whom protection orders were issued to temporarily surrender their firearms.

The Nebraska Legislature’s Judiciary Committee hosted public hearings on five bills that all seek to adjust the ways the state responds to domestic violence reports. Some of the policies considered included graduated penalties for repeated violations of protection orders and updates to Nebraska’s criminal code to address modern abuse tactics, adding penalties for using mobile tracking devices on a partner without his or her consent.

Legislative Bill 1088, introduced by State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln, would require people with domestic abuse protection orders granted against them or people convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor charge to surrender their owned firearms and to prove they complied with this aspect of the new law. Violations would be a Class I misdemeanor, which comes with a $1,000 fine, up to one year in jail, or both.

Current Nebraska law bans those convicted of domestic abuse charges or named in an issued protection order from purchasing new guns or ammunition. But Raybould and LB 1088 supporters argue that leaves a “deadly gap” in Nebraska’s criminal justice system. Raybould said her bill would bring Nebraska in line with 29 other states with similar laws.

“We can’t stick our heads in the sand about this issue,” Raybould said. “Especially when there are small but significant steps that we can take.”

LB 1088 saw seven supporters and two opponents testify at Friday’s hearing. Supporters included multiple survivors, a loved one of a deceased victim, a family law attorney, the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, the Police Chiefs Association of Nebraska and the Women’s Fund of Omaha.

Multiple testifiers argued LB 1088 would save lives. Carrie Wiese, a domestic abuse survivor, said her abuser’s handgun “went missing” after he was issued a protection order three years ago. Had she been staying in a place where he could find her, Wiese said she may not be alive today.

Wiese and other supporters emphasized that the bill was a necessary enforcement tool for protection orders.

“Otherwise the [protection order] is just a piece of paper … that is not bulletproof,” Wiese said.

Melanie Kirk, legal director for the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, said the period a victim seeks and secures a protection order is often the most dangerous for victims. When there is a firearm present in the home, violence is far more likely, she said.

Kirk acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges in LB 1088 was storage of seized firearms, noting that some law enforcement agencies may not have the capacity to store the weapons themselves. She suggested a delayed implementation date for the new law to give those agencies time to secure the needed infrastructure to handle weapons drop-offs.

Spencer Head with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office opposed LB 1088 in part for this reason. He said his office wouldn’t have the storage capacity necessary for this process and noted other procedural issues with the proposal. For example, he said his office is prohibited from returning seized ammunition.

Raybould indicated she was willing to negotiate with law enforcement on a possible amendment.

Dick Clark, an attorney and legislative staffer representing himself on Friday, also opposed the bill. He said LB 1088 would add unnecessary duties for law enforcement and noted that prohibited persons are already banned from possessing firearms under Nebraska law.

Clark argued LB 1088 would instill a stricter policy than federal law, which calls for the surrender of firearms only after the final order of a domestic abuse case has been made. He said the bill is well-intentioned, but he doubts it would actually accomplish Raybould’s goal of preventing violence.

“If they’re willing to kill, they’re probably willing to be a liar,” Clark said.

Nebraska mulls temporary firearm seizures for issued protection orders

🎥'Today' show host's new video plea to kidnapper: We will pay

Zubayar Al-Bakoush, an armed coconspirator in the 2012 attack on U.S. facilities in Benghazi, Libya, that killed U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three other Americans, was charged in an eight-count indictment unsealed Friday in U.S. District Court on multiple terrorism and murder counts, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Bondi said in a news conference that Zubayr Al-Bakoush had landed at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at 3 a.m. on Friday.

“We have never stopped seeking justice for that crime against our nation,” Bondi said.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said that an eight-count indictment charged Al-Bakoush with crimes including the murders of Ambassador Chris Stevens and State Department employee Sean Smith. It was unclear if Al-Bakoush had an attorney representing him.

Bakoush, who is in federal custody, is expected to make his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Moxila A. Upadhyaya for the District of Columbia.

“The terrorist attack on our Benghazi Embassy was a dark and tragic day for our nation that robbed us of four American heroes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Now, thanks to our brave federal agents, one of its alleged key participants will be prosecuted in an American courtroom on American soil. Under President Trump’s leadership, this Department of Justice will never rest in our mission to Make America Safe Again and deliver swift, severe justice to our enemies.”

"The FBI and our U.S. government partners have worked tirelessly to hold accountable those responsible for the heinous terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya that resulted in the deaths of the U.S. Ambassador, J. Christopher Stevens and U.S. government personnel Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The latest result of our efforts is bringing&nbsp; Zubayar Al-Bakoush&nbsp; to the U.S. to face charges for his alleged role in the attacks against our citizens and our facilities in Libya. You can be assured that no matter how long it takes, or where you are located, the FBI remains steadfast in our duty to see justice served against those who harm our citizens. I’m grateful to the men and women of the FBI for their unrelenting efforts to bring us to where we stand today – this defendant will be prosecuted on U.S. soil.”

“Today’s indictment against Zubayar Al-Bakoush is indicative of President Trump’s resolve to hold accountable anyone who harms Americans, no matter where,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Al-Bakoush is now on U.S. soil, because the FBI and Department of Justice never forgot those Americans who were seemingly forgotten in that outpost in Benghazi, Libya. President Trump, Attorney General Bondi, FBI Director Patel, and I will do whatever it takes, no matter how long it takes, to pursue justice for the victims and their families.”

“Over thirteen years have passed since the 2012 attack in Libya, and over eight since the last arrest in this case, but the Department of Justice’s resolve has not wavered,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “We never forgot those four Americans who were killed in service of our Nation, and we will continue to seek justice for them, their families, and for the United States.”

“In September 2012, Zubayar Al-Bakoush allegedly facilitated the terrorist attack on the United States Mission and Annex in Benghazi in which four Americans – including an ambassador – were murdered in an effort to incite additional violence against our country’s presence in Libya” said James Barnacle, Assistant Director in Charge of New York Field Office. “This bloody campaign waged unnecessary brutality against Americans and forever altered the lives of the victims’ families. May today’s significant disruption send a clear message: the FBI New York’s Joint Terrorism Task Force will never cease its tireless pursuit of any terrorist involved in the massacre of our nation’s citizens, regardless of when or where the onslaught occurred.”

Jurisdiction of the United States and Attempting to Do the Same

The charges stem from the Sept. 11, 2012, terrorist attack on the U.S. Special Mission and nearby CIA Annex that killed&nbsp;Ambassador Stevens and U.S. government personnel Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty.

According to the indictment, Bakoush was a member of Ansar Al Sharia (AAS), an Islamist extremist militia in Benghazi, which had the goal of establishing Sharia law in Libya.

On the evening of Sept. 11, 2012, a group of more than 20 heavily armed men – including Bakoush assembled outside the main gate of the U.S Special Mission in Benghazi.&nbsp; They were armed with assault rifles, other firearms, and explosive devices.&nbsp; At about 9:45 p.m., the group of armed men violently breached the main gate of the Mission. Upon entry, the men fanned out across the Mission complex, setting fires to building within the Mission compound.

When the attackers could not gain entry to the secure area of Villa C, the Ambassador’s residence, they set fire to it. &nbsp;Ambassador Stevens and Mr. Smith suffocated from the thick, black smoke that enveloped the residence.&nbsp;Diplomatic Security Services (DSS) Special Agent Scott Wickland, who had tried to guide Ambassador Stevens and Mr. Smith to safety, was injured and repeatedly took small arms fire while trying to rescue the two Americans.

The extremist group also attacked the Quick Reaction Force building, which was occupied by local Libyans serving as guards for the Mission.

About 10 p.m., Bakoush entered the Mission compound with other conspirators, and conducted surveillance of the Tactical Operation Center and the Villa. After Bakoush attempted to gain entry to vehicles belonging to Mission staff, he and his co-conspirators temporarily retreated to an area just outside the Mission.

About 11:15 p.m., conspirators assembled outside the southern gate and launched a second violent attack on the Mission using AK-type assault rifles, grenades, and rocket-propelled grenades. After 30 minutes, the group entered the compound and plundered the Mission’s office of documents, maps, and computers containing sensitive information about the location of the CIA Annex.

At 12:30 a.m., conspirators attacked the Annex with small arms, assault rifles, and rocket-propelled grenades.

Following the attack at the Mission, in the early hours of September 12, 2012, the violence continued at the CIA Annex, first with gunfire and then with a precision mortar attack. While defending the Annex, Mr. Woods, Mr. Doherty, DSS Special Agent David Ubben, and CIA security specialist Mark Tiegen were hit by a precision mortar attack, leading to the deaths of Mr. Woods and Mr. Doherty. Special Agent Ubben and Mr. Tiegen were seriously wounded but survived.

The Department of Justice previously charged and convicted two leaders in the Benghazi attack on federal terrorism charges and other offenses. Ahmed Abu Khatallah, aka Ahmed Mukatallah was sentenced in June 2018 to 22 years in prison and resentenced in September 2024 to 28 years in prison. Mustafa al-Imam was sentenced in January 2020 to nearly 20 years.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s New York Field Office with substantial assistance from the Department of War, the CIA and the Department of State. The National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section provided additional assistance.

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