Stuck in Neutral: Nebraska used to be a leader in creating jobs and spurring growth. Not anymore.

Nebraska's economic growth has stalled, missing Site Selection magazine's top 10 development states for the second year

April 17, 2026Updated: April 17, 2026

By HENRY J. CORDES/Flatwater Free Press

Regional

Pierce Public Schools proposes $9.9 million bond for elementary safety and security

Pierce Public Schools proposes $9.9 million bond for elementary safety and security

Norfolk officer prepares seniors for ‘adulting' with real-world safety course

Norfolk officer prepares seniors for ‘adulting' with real-world safety course

Two killed in head-on crash in Madison County

Two killed in head-on crash in Madison County

Live music and local flavor return to downtown Norfolk

Live music and local flavor return to downtown Norfolk

State

Walmart call determined to be 'swatting' incident

‘I am most looking forward to the competitiveness’: Kimball’s Braxton Miller to continue basketball career at collegiate level

Authorities respond to threat at Sidney Walmart

Kotsiopulos appointed to fill Kearney council seat during Straatmann’s military duty

Housing project in Gordon turns loss into new homes

Proposed event venue denied permit by Kearney City Council

Sports

Ferguson signs with Peru State baseball

Lincoln East finishes under-par to win Beatrice Invitational

WNCC softball sweeps Trinidad on Friday

Haarberg Reflects on Time as a Husker, Hungry for NFL Opportunity

APRIL 24 (6:45 PM CT) - Columbus Fury vs Omaha Supernovas (NCN TV)

Five Tri County athletes celebrate college commitments at 2026 Signing Day

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Spring shotgun turkey season opens

Outdoor notes: Bighorn sheep regular lottery applications begin April 20

Outdoor notes: NGPC offering pastures, hay tracts to those affected by wildfires

Outdoor notes: Work to begin soon on Smith Lake WMA Aquatic Habitat Project

Outdoor notes: Game and Parks urges caution when recreating outdoors due to wildfires

Outdoor notes: Temporary closure of Clear Creek WMA for safety