This week, I want to highlight the Interim Study on the Niobrara National Scenic River, which I introduced as LR158. This study will examine the feasibility of Nebraska taking over administrative responsibility for the 76-mile stretch of the Niobrara Scenic River. Since its designation in 1991, this segment has been managed by the National Park Service, which, unlike most national park sites, owns very little land along the river. Instead, its stewardship has largely relied on partnerships with local landowners and community stakeholders.

Big, Beautiful Bill Would Deal Bad News for Rural Hospitals and Medicaid Recipients There’s some good news and plenty of bad news for Nebraska’s rural hospitals. Just recently, state officials cheered the announcement that the federal government had approved the state’s application to join a program, already involving 44 other states, that would provide an additional $1 billion to the state’s hospitals and nursing facilities.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced plans for 2026 highway construction projects. In the area, the NDOT plans to mill and resurface 7.78 miles of Highway 20 between Stuart and Atkinson. The estimated cost of the work is $4.08 million.

The Meadville Cultural and Historical Museum hosted a grand opening celebration on July 5. The museum is located south of the Meadville Store and east of Meadville Park in the building called the Red Barn, which sits north of the Niobrara River.

The Brown County Commissioners met in the Brown County Courthouse meeting room at 1:15 p.m. on July 1.

The Ainsworth Commercial Club along with the Ainsworth Chamber of Commerce and many other individuals, businesses, and organizations came together to hold the Bob Buckles Memorial Cruise Night on July 4.