Tax season is about to begin as 1099s and W-2s arrive in mailboxes across Nebraska. 

The U.S. Department of Education announced it is pausing plans to garnish wages of student loan borrowers in default. The seizure of tax refunds and other federal benefits from borrowers with student loan debt are also being delayed.

An electrical fire destroyed a trailer home in Terrytown on Saturday afternoon.

Strong winds fueled a grass fire in Banner County on Sunday, burning 76 acres west of Highway 71. Firefighters from multiple departments contained the blaze, which was caused by a downed power line.

Sidney earns team title at Western Conference Speech Meet on Saturday in Scottsbluff.

NSP says a driver was critically injured after an officer-involved shooting at the end of a pursuit Friday night in rural Sioux County. No officers were hurt.

The grass fire near I-76 west of Fort Morgan has been contained.

A fast-moving grass fire near I-76 in Sedgwick County was contained after a massive multi-agency response. Investigators say sparks from a semi-truck ignited the blaze, and charges have now been filed. No injuries or damage reported.

Red Flag Warnings are in effect Saturday for the Nebraska Panhandle and northeast Colorado.

Peetz School Superintendent invited two rural superintends whose schools changed from a five-day to four-day weeks to discuss the process, and why.

After nearly three years on the job in Kimball, Police Chief Jose Ruiz is expected to leave his post next week. Ruiz has opted not to speak publicly about his exit until the city council accepts his resignation at next Tuesday's meeting. Sargent Jose Barb

Rep. Adrian Smith has filed for re-election in Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District, citing work on tax relief, agriculture, trade and border security as he seeks another term in Congress.

Sidney volunteer firefighters logged more than 5,000 hours of service in 2025 and responded to 210 calls from January through October.

A $6,000 grant from the Elks helped the Sidney location of Banisters Leadership Academy purchase recreational equipment.

Nebraska lawmakers opened the session with 171 new bills introduced as debate begins. Gov. Jim Pillen outlined priorities on taxes, jobs, education and public safety during his State of the State address.

High wind warnings remain in effect as gusts topping 70 mph cause damage, power outages and travel disruptions across the Panhandle and surrounding areas. Schools and activities impacted.

Kimball County deputies arrested a 52-year-old man Sunday on a felony warrant out of Iowa, along with charges of resisting arrest and obstruction.

High wind warnings remain in effect Friday across the Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming and northeast Colorado. Gusts near 70 mph have already caused a semi blowover on I-80 and dangerous travel conditions.

Alliance police report a juvenile has been taken into custody after multiple vehicle break-ins on West 11th Street and Sheridan Avenue.

Perkins County Schools has named Ben Jones as its next superintendent.

The SAGA Fund celebrated $1.25 million raised for its forever fund Thursday and announced a new $1 million challenge grant. Here’s what it means for Sidney and the region.

LINCOLN, Neb. - While insisting concerns of a budget crisis in Nebraska are overblown, Governor Jim Pillen is proposing a nine figure cut in spending. During his annual State of the State address Thursday morning, Governor Pillen proposed $495 million wor

The University of Nebraska is moving forward with purchasing Clarkson Regional Health’s share of Nebraska Medicine.

High winds and extreme fire danger are expected across the Panhandle and tri-state region Thursday and Friday. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible.

Two Nebraska schools have been named 2025 National ESEA Distinguished Schools, joining 63 schools across the U.S. recognized for extraordinary success in improving student achievement.

Sports betting is allowed at casinos in Nebraska but not on your phone, like it is in 38 other states.

Potter Fire Chief Mark Onstott recognized Sidney Fire Chief Matt Butts for his response to a medical call in November. Chief Butts in turn thanked first responders, communications and law enforcement for their dedication.

Ever wondered what goes on behind the badge? The Sidney Police Department is opening applications Feb. 2 for its Spring 2026 Citizens Academy, offering hands-on training, simulations and ride-alongs.

Pine Bluffs police cadets were recognized by the Cheyenne Police Department for their help during the Cheyenne Frontier Days parade, assisting with traffic control, safety patrols and parade setup.

A Morrill County deputy arrested a Minatare man after a reported late-night pursuit in Bridgeport that included speeding, a failure to stop, and damage to mailboxes and a gate.

A small fire at a Chadron laundromat was quickly contained today thanks to the fast response of the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department.

The Sidney City Council Tuesday approved promoting Kim Phillips to Deputy City Clerk. At Clerk Lori Borchert's March 2 retirement, the council will then decide to promote her to Clerk/Treasurer.

A High Wind Watch is in effect Thursday night through Friday for the Panhandle and surrounding region. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible, with dangerous travel and elevated fire danger. Secure loose items and avoid outdoor burning.

The Sidney School District Board of Education received a clean audit opinion for the 2024-25 fiscal year during its meeting Monday, according to Rauner and Associates.

Sidney's Tyler Miller found a new path after years in EMS, building First Response Meat Company through patience, family, and a love for cooking.

Potter Volunteer Fire Department crews quickly contained two grass fires along Highway 30 east of Potter Monday afternoon, limiting each blaze to about one acre.

Julie Downing of Chadron has been named the 2025 Friend of NSASSP Award recipient for her leadership and support of Nebraska educators.

One person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Monday afternoon at Highway 26 and East 27th Street in Scottsbluff.

SAGA Fund will celebrate its $1 million challenge grant milestone Thursday at Boss City Brewing.

If you’re looking for a fun excuse to read something new, and a chance at a romantic night out, the Alliance Public Library has you covered.

An Imperial man faces multiple charges after a DUI traffic stop late Friday night escalated into a struggle with deputies.

Banner County graduate and former U.S. Marine Seth Dvorak has begun training to become a Nebraska State Trooper.

Two people were arrested after police seized methamphetamine and a handgun during a traffic stop in Sterling.

Fire crews quickly extinguished a concrete mixer truck fire at a Scottsbluff ready-mix yard.

Alliance police arrested a registered sex offender on charges of first-degree sexual assault and strangulation.

The Nebraska Legislature has convened for its 60-day session, with budget work and hundreds of bills under review.

During the early morning hours Thursday, Alliance Police officers responded to a reported burglary at a residence in Alliance while the homeowners were present. 

A traffic stop for expired plates in Sterling led to the discovery of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, according to police.

Peetz Plateau School District welcomed the public to the new and improved K-12 Peetz School Monday. Former students described it as having remnants of the past with a vision for the future.

A Venango man was arrested Wednesday near Lamar on felony and misdemeanor warrants, according to the Perkins County Sheriff’s Office.

A Nebraska Panhandle man accused of sexually assaulting a minor appeared in Lincoln County District Court Monday.

A transformer fire at the Solar Array Field on the northeast side of Scottsbluff caused a power outage Sunday afternoon before crews extinguished the blaze.

Fire crews from across Logan County and neighboring areas contained a fast-moving grass fire Friday afternoon at the Logan County Shooting Sports Complex near Sterling.

Governor Jim Pillen has reappointed Doug Zingula, of Crawford, formerly of Sidney, to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Regional West welcomed its first baby of the new year at 12:05 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

An 18-year-old from Colorado was arrested after a high-speed pursuit on I-80 in western Nebraska that reached 140 mph and ended near Sutherland, according to the Nebraska State Patrol.

Savor & Grace owner Jill Sauder announced the Sidney cheese and sandwich shop is for sale after three years, citing a desire to pursue new opportunities while finding the right person to carry the business forward.

A stolen e-bike was quickly recovered and returned after officers realized the suspect had ridden it straight to the Sterling Police Department.

A New Year’s Day structure fire in Ogallala caused only minor damage thanks to quick action by occupants and a rapid response from fire crews. No injuries were reported.

A juvenile was cited after a firework ignited the exterior of a Scottsbluff home, causing an estimated $5,000 in damage. Fire officials are reminding the public to use fireworks responsibly as the New Year approaches.

Regional West Garden County Hospital in Oshkosh will convert to a Rural Emergency Hospital (REH), hospital and rural health officials said.

Firefighters responded to a rural Cheyenne County home after a trailer loaded with hay caught fire, destroying the entire load. No injuries were reported.

Firefighters responded before dawn on Christmas morning to a garage fire in Iliff that threatened nearby buildings, officials said.

A bizarre incident in southwest Nebraska involving a cow led to one person being injured and an officer shooting the animal.