Stories from Thursday, April 2, 2026

McCOOK — Bryan Jones spent around three decades in the teaching profession, most of that in McCook, and has recently released the book “Adventures in the Teaching Trade” in hopes that some of his experiences will be useful for other teachers. The 340-page paperback doesn’t just chronicle his time as an educator. Jones also shared anecdotes — some humorous and some serious — that highlighted the methodology behind his teaching, noting what worked and what didn’t...

COZAD, Neb. — Gwendolyn “Gwen” DeVries, age 85, of Arapahoe, Nebraska passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, at the Emerald Nursing home in Cozad, Nebraska...

McCOOK, Neb. — Mildred Marie Weskamp, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook, Nebraska...

McCOOK, Neb. — Mildred Marie Weskamp, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook, Nebraska...

By the time this column appears, McCook and Southwest Nebraska may have received some rain. But I’m not holding my breath because the clouds appear, yet nothing falls from the sky. The lack of moisture has even increased my sense of superstition. There was a debate on postponing a weeknight kindergarten soccer game that I coach because rain was in the forecast at game time. ...

For a couple of years now, I have noticed many people, particularly in the service sector, saying, “Have a good rest of your day.” The phrase tortures me. There is something profoundly unsettling about hearing such an awkward construction delivered with a sincere smile, though I often suspect that the awkwardness is mine alone...