State News

Fullerton grad Abbie (Hambleton) Smith and her husband Spencer opened Wild Trail Safari in Polk. The safari features a number of animals not native to Nebraska. Make plans to visit today. NCJ photos by Beth Sparrow

Fullerton grad Abbie (Hambleton) Smith and her husband Spencer opened Wild Trail Safari in Polk. The safari features a number of animals not native to Nebraska. Make plans to visit today. NCJ photos by Beth Sparrow

For Subscribers

TALK ABOUT A WILD RIDE

Beth Sparrow
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
POLK — Need something to do this weekend? Wild Trail Safari has you covered. Although there are no lions, tigers or bears (oh my!), you will still see unique animals like a sloth, camels, emus, lemurs and more. Some you can pet and feed, and others you need to stay in your vehicle.
NSP Police Service Dog Phoenix. Photo provided

NSP Police Service Dog Phoenix. Photo provided

Nebraska State Patrol welcomes two new K9s to the ranks

News Staff
Friday, July 3, 2026
KEARNEY — The Nebraska State Patrol is proud to announce the addition of two new dogs to the NSP Police Service Dog Unit.PSD Phoenix and PSD RJ have recently completed their certification and are now on the road serving Nebraska.
Photo illustration

Photo illustration

Stay safe on Independence Day

News Staff
Friday, July 3, 2026
LINCOLN — However you choose to celebrate Independence Day this year, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) urges you to stay safe using these tips.Firework SafetyFireworks are fun, but they can also be dangerous.

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Nebraska Public Media to broadcast new Omaha Symphony Concert

News Staff
Friday, July 3, 2026
LINCOLN — A partnership between Nebraska Public Media and the Omaha Symphony continues with an all-new concert as the Omaha Symphony Orchestra performs Brahms Symphony No. 4. In his final symphonic work, Brahms takes viewers on a journey full of drama and triumph.
Assistant psychology professor Rachael Turner, front, and UNK senior Blaine Tewahade are studying the cognitive challenges faced by caregivers and support systems that may help reduce those impacts. Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications

Assistant psychology professor Rachael Turner, front, and UNK senior Blaine Tewahade are studying the cognitive challenges faced by caregivers and support systems that may help reduce those impacts. Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications

UNK students turn summer break into research opportunity

Tyler Ellyson - UNK Communications
Friday, July 3, 2026
KEARNEY — Research at the University of Nebraska at Kearney doesn’t stop when the academic year ends.A dozen students are working one-on-one with faculty mentors this summer to investigate real-world questions while developing skills that extend well beyond the classroom.

Two arrested after pursuits on Friday

News Staff
Sunday, June 28, 2026
NORTH PLATTE — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested two people following separate pursuits Friday.At approximately 10:40 a.m. Friday, a trooper attempted a traffic stop in Thayer County, near Bruning on County Road 6300.