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

Wildfire sparked by lightning forces evacuation in Dawson County

Wildfire sparked by lightning forces evacuation in Dawson County

LeMar Resigns from Hastings College Foundation

LeMar Resigns from Hastings College Foundation

19th Annual Springfest to Launch Spring Planting Season

19th Annual Springfest to Launch Spring Planting Season

Archway introduces new audio tour app, virtual museum tours

Archway introduces new audio tour app, virtual museum tours

Hastings Airport Awards Bid for Jet Hangar, Eyes Regional Status

Hastings Airport Awards Bid for Jet Hangar, Eyes Regional Status

Local volunteers invite Kearney residents to help design downtown crosswalk murals

Local volunteers invite Kearney residents to help design downtown crosswalk murals

State

Norfolk first responders adopt program to locate missing individuals faster

‘I wanted to be the best showman I can be’: Kimball’s Aubrey Culek to continue Livestock Showing at collegiate level

Tower work to temporarily affect 98.7 FM signal in Sidney area

‘It’s my little niche I really enjoy doing’: Kimball Trap Shooter to continue competing at collegiate level

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

Wildfire sparked by lightning forces evacuation in Dawson County

Sports

Clutch hitting gives Columbus win over rival Norfolk

Bridgeport names Dean interim girls basketball coach after Kuhlen steps down

WNCC baseball starts slow; earns a split with Southeast

Beatrice drops tournament semifinal against Platteview; will face Ralston for third place Friday

100-Meter Sprinters, 4x400 Relay Among Bauer Open Standouts

Colorado sports notes: Avalanche coach Jared Bednar returns to the bench after taking a puck to the face last weekend

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