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

A new Flatwater analysis shows the state has fallen behind its neighbors. Business leaders are diagnosing why – and hoping new efforts will reverse the troubling trend.

April 17, 2026Updated: April 20, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Cheyenne man arrested following fire at historic pump house

Do Jackson Hole’s busiest trails create a wildlife ‘sacrifice zone’? Study finds coexistence.

Colorado Democrats censure governor for conspiracy theorist sentence commutation

Eggs, milk, lifesaving skills: CPR training pops up outside Valentine grocery store

State

Stanton celebrates Memorial Day at new veterans memorial

Thayer County digs into history to commemorate Memorial Day

Legion installing flag display for six services

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

Regional

Cheyenne man arrested following fire at historic pump house

Do Jackson Hole’s busiest trails create a wildlife ‘sacrifice zone’? Study finds coexistence.

Colorado Democrats censure governor for conspiracy theorist sentence commutation

Eggs, milk, lifesaving skills: CPR training pops up outside Valentine grocery store

State

Stanton celebrates Memorial Day at new veterans memorial

Thayer County digs into history to commemorate Memorial Day

Legion installing flag display for six services

Downtown Sounds performer Kimberly Meyer earns national music award nomination

Endangered Missing Advisory issued for 18-year-old last possibly seen in Sidney

Wakefield Community Schools split ways with Dr. Matt Farup

Sports

Hertl’s late winner caps Golden Knights’ wild 5-3 rally, giving them a 3-0 series lead on Avalanche

Kearney Catholic girls track secures three-peat

Chadron State's Bynes places 5th at Outdoor Nationals

Shaydyn Rasby, Katelyn Walker win state titles as area athletes close strong in Omaha

2026 Nebraska State Track and Field Championships: Southeast Nebraska Qualifiers and Results

Murray State CC, of Oklahoma, wins NJCAA Division 2 Golf Title

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Campers invited to take state park survey

Feed supplies tighten for Nebraska producers as drought persists

Outdoor notes: Invasive Species Awareness Week is May 24-30

Powell wins 56th Cornhusker Trap Shoot

Outdoor notes: Spring shotgun turkey season opens

Outdoor notes: Bighorn sheep regular lottery applications begin April 20