This Thanksgiving is a perfect moment to reflect on the many blessings we have as Nebraskans and as Americans. Our nation has its challenges, but there is so much we can be thankful for. As I travel across our great state, I meet with neighbors in towns large and small. I’ve been reminded again and again of the strength, decency, and character of the people here in Nebraska. So let us pause, give thanks, and remember what makes our state and country truly special.

2024 has been a contentious year in Washington, with its fair share of fights and drama. And while those fights get media attention, there are plenty of positive stories that don’t make headlines.

I hope all of our hunters have enjoyed the first weekend of deer season. And if you haven’t seen any deer, I don’t want to hear about it. Nearly five years ago, I was about as excited as a kid on Christmas Eve when I made perhaps my favorite purchase of my adult life - a ‘98 Buick Park Avenue. I love old Buicks and I paid $1,000 for the car.

President John F. Kennedy once said, “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers.” Each Veterans Day, we take time to honor our brave veterans. These women and men have served our country with courage. They’ve made great sacrifices to protect our freedoms. We owe them a debt of gratitude that we can never repay. One way we can support them is by ensuring that they get the benefits they earned. I’m proud of the work my office has done in helping veterans and their families overcome bureaucratic failures.

Lately my teenager has been fascinated by medical dramas. Although my “doctor self” is usually rolling my eyes throughout the program, it’s often a good conversation starter.

With election season behind us, the Senate is back in session. Our next few weeks before the year ends and the Biden administration comes to a close are known as the “lame duck period”—a period often marked by complacency as Congress waits for a new administration to begin.

Happy Thanksgiving & early Happy Holidays from your local Nebraska Extension County Offices!! With busy holiday schedules and the extra holiday gatherings, it is easy to feel stressed over the holiday season. Nebraska Extension Food & Health Educator Kayla Hinrichs based in Valley County has a few tips to help you create balance and have time to be present this holiday season.

This week, Nebraskans entrusted me for the third time with the greatest honor of my life, and I’m humbled by their decision to return me to the U.S. Senate for six more years.

Cranberries are in season now! Cranberries are called America’s Original Superfruit by the USA’s Cranberry Marketing Committee. Native Americans used cranberries as a staple as early as 1550, by 1620 the Pilgrims had learned how to use them from the Native Americans.

The 2024 election is over. Americans voted for change. President Donald Trump’s re-election, along with Republican majorities in the House and Senate, marks a turning point for our country. The people of the United States have spoken clearly and decisively.