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On Saturday, February 7, 2026, the Gregory sixth-grade girls basketball team traveled to Valentine, NE, where they competed in an eight-team tournament and came home as tournament champions, earning medals and championship hats. Gregory defeated Gordon-Rushville 29–5, North Central 36–7, and won the championship game 28–13. Back row l to r: Coach Hank Wonnenberg, Hannah Hull, Addyson DuFrane, Avaya Vomacka, and Coach Aaron Vomacka. Front row, l to r: Avery Stukel, Mayme Reber, Lydia Wonnenberg, Meadow Wonnenberg, and Sutton Braun.

Trump's rambling address, starting his 2nd year, about how he has, by decree and tariff, built up the economy and fulfilled his election promises, wasn't even carried in full on Fox News. In Switzerland, he spoke against Norway for denying him the Nobel Peace Prize. He degraded NATO and the European Union; he confused Greenland with Iceland and vowed to take over Greenland militarily to protect North America. Canadian Prime Minister Carney responded, saying the Canadian military will join Danish forces to maintain Greenland's independence. Since then, Canada has moved forward with a deal with China to remove tariffs on canola and peas, in exchange for the importation of China's EVs and their manufacture in Canada. Trump said he would put 100% tariffs on all Canadian goods if Carney went ahead with this deal with China. Know that global warming has diminished the sea ice over the top of Canada, so the Northern Passage is the way to get Canadian goods out and for China to ship its goods to Europe. The EU and India have announced a new trade and security agreement in response to Trump's vow to increase tariffs on them. In short, Trump has lost the respect and trust of the leaders of most countries.

hoden The 2026 Legislative Session is off to a strong start. I signed my first bill of the session: HB 1044, which appropriates funding for the Rural Health Transformation Plan in South Dakota.

The American frontier of the 19th century, often referred to as the “Wild West,” invokes images of rugged cowboys, lawless territories, and untamed wilderness. However, the stories of the courageous and resilient women who helped shape this era are often overlooked. It is important that we understand the life of the pioneer women in the 1800s, their challenges, triumphs, and their lasting impact on the American West.

R ecords Jeremiah J. McClellan, 49, Spencer, NE, speeding on a state highway, fine $19.00, court costs $50.00, surcharges $28.50.