Thomas Ray Deal

THOMAS RAY DEAL, 51, of Leavenworth, Kansas, formerly of Ogallala and Sidney, passed away January 30, 2026, in Leavenworth.

February 23, 2026Updated: February 23, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Thomas Ray Deal

Regional

Heart City Cattle Battle expected to grow in year five

Dozens of young cattle exhibitors from several states are in Valentine this weekend, preparing their animals for the annual Heart City Cattle Battle.

Farm animal welfare rules might be rolled back by Congress

Farm animal welfare rules might be rolled back by Congress

The last country school in Scottsbluff shuts its doors

The last country school in Scottsbluff shuts its doors

Researchers study microfossils at Toadstool Geologic Park

Researchers study microfossils at Toadstool Geologic Park

State

Wiener dog and corgi races debut at Long Pine Outlaw Days

Fisher's "pink school" closes its doors for the final time after 150 years

2026 Sidney Cruisin’ Night welcomes summer

Firefighters respond to morning structure fire

Offutt Air Force Base, local emergency groups stage mass casualty exercise

The 19th Landon Bos Memorial Bicycle Rodeo helps children stay safe

Sports

Brewers score 8 late runs, stun Rockies 9-7 in wild 10-inning victory

Nebraska coaches share ideas and build connections during Shrine Bowl week

Kearney athletes embrace hometown opportunity during Shrine Bowl week

Shrine Bowl South players reflect on hometown pride ahead of final high school game

North team building chemistry ahead of Saturday's Shrine Bowl

UNK top running back Isaiah Harris granted waiver to play in 2026

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April

NGPC still offers grazing, haying opportunities

Outdoor notes: Campers invited to take state park survey

Feed supplies tighten for Nebraska producers as drought persists