Cozad Local

08/28/2025

Fall leaves are almost here!!
Let's see your favorite fall photos.
Pumpkin patches, Harvest photos, Husker photos, sunsets, cats, and dogs!
Drop them in the comments.

08/26/2025

*Work to begin on I-80, from Cozad to Darr*

Cozad LOCAL

Weather permitting, work will begin Sept. 2 on Interstate 80 (I-80) between Cozad and Darr, from reference post 221.46 to reference post 230.54, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

Paul Reed Construction, of Gering, is the contractor for this project. Work includes new concrete pavement, grading, culverts, bridge replacement, bridge repair and lighting.

Traffic will be maintained with lane closures for work performed in the fall and winter of 2025 and spring of 2026. A 12-foot width restriction will be in effect during these periods. Beginning in April of 2026, two-lane, two-way traffic with a single lane in each direction is expected. Anticipated completion is fall 2027.

The purpose of this project is to preserve the transportation asset, improve the reliability of the transportation system and perpetuate the mobility of the traveling public.

Motorists should expect reduced speeds and lane reductions within the work zones and are reminded to drive cautiously through highway construction zones. *

08/22/2025

Head to Living Hope Church this Sunday!

https://www.cozadlocal.com/news/local/fundraiser-planned-for-ashley-anderson-and-family/article_4d6c1486-66f5-4eda-b69f-c216a9d49afd.html

08/21/2025

The Haymaker Creative District continues to bring in big names to show off Cozad.

“When I began my work with the Haymaker Creative District, I knew it was important to connect with our state’s leaders, not just to inform, but to inspire,” Bonnie Hubbard

08/20/2025

Are you a LOCAL photographer?
Contact us if you are interested in partnering for a Special Feature!

08/03/2025

Birth or wedding happening?
Well, isn't that just the best excuse to share it with the world... for FREE?! 🎉
Click the link below, fill out the deets, and then just chill - it'll show up in the next paper like magic! ✨

https://www.cozadlocal.com/site/forms/announcements/share_an_announcement/

08/02/2025

The popular Music Mondays in Cozad will begin on Aug. 4 and continue through Aug. 25. The events are held at the Green Space, and no admission is charged.

08/01/2025

One of the main agenda items discussed at the Cozad Community School Board meeting on Monday, July 14 was the district’s AfterZone Program. This highly valued and well-attended after-school and

07/31/2025

https://www.cozadlocal.com/news/local/chasing-goodness-to-find-strength/article_2f69e114-ca88-445f-8c50-082bdebf67e7.html

This year, 46 swimmers on the Cozad swim team were once again coached by Anne Burkholder and her friend Karen Labrayere. Before moving to Cozad, Burkholder coached kids aged eight

07/24/2025

Just Be Kind Next Saturday

Next weekend, head to Jack’s Welding 320 E 5th St, Cozad, for the Just Be Kind event, a special occasion dedicated to the memory of the Koch family.
The day promises an incredible lineup with live performances from Sweetwater, The Schlitz Band, and Janelle Irwin, ensuring an unforgettable atmosphere for all attendees.
Food lovers won’t want to miss the all-you-can-eat BBQ competition, featuring at least five grilling competitors. Thanks to Tyson Foods for donating the brisket and Jack’s Welding for providing the pork ribs. A monetary prize will be awarded for the best brisket/rib combo, but each competitor is welcome to showcase their signature specialty or side dish as well. There is still time to sign up to show off your BBQ skills.
A few highlights to look forward to:
• Cozad FFA will be serving burgers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (free-will donation)
• Elks Club Beer Garden opens at 2 p.m.
• Speakers will be set up outside with music playing until the bands begin.
• A dunk tank, yard games like Corn Hole, Polish Horseshoes, and Kan Jam, plus other fun activities will keep everyone entertained before the BBQ and music start.
“Jeremy and Bailey were more than just our friends, they were compassionate, selfless individuals who left a lasting impression on everyone they met. They were fierce advocates for mental health awareness and never hesitated to support those struggling,” shared Jack and LeAnn Muegerl.
“In honor of their legacy, we are hosting this community event to raise awareness about mental health and to inspire change in a system that desperately needs reform. This event is not only a tribute to Jermey, Bailey, Hudson, and Asher, but a call to action, to help their families continue the work Jermey and Bailey started.”
“The world can feel heavy and cruel, but kindness cost nothing. Just Be Kind and let’s spread it generously. As Bailey famously said, “Keep them talking. Mental illness does not win. Hope does.”
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, featuring generously donated items like:
• A Custom Wood Carved Flag by Jack’s Welding
• A 52 qt. Rtic Cooler on wheels, donated by Bill Daharsh
• Two Krate Tactical Knives (carbon fiber and sandstorm), donated by Brian Jewett of Flatwater Tools
• A Handmade End Table by Karen Rigsby
• Zero Gravity Chairs and Four Ramps, donated by Ginger Young
• A Timber and Hide Tent, donated by Brandon Doxon
• Cheesecakes donated by Bizzy Bee
• A 12x12 Vevor Camping Gazebo Screen Tent, donated by DC Climate Control
• Plus, more exciting items!
Muegerl shared that all proceeds will be donated to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Nebraska, a cause chosen by the Koch/Kugler families. NAMI offers critical support for those affected by mental health conditions. In times of crisis, help is just a call or text away:
• Call or Text: 988
• Call: 1-800-950-6264
• Text "NAMI" to 62640
NAMI provides education and support on a range of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, su***de, addiction, and more.
This event is made possible through the generous support of Jack’s Welding, Dawson Pest Control, Werner Sprinklers, ZieSTRONG, Tysons Inc., Dollar Fresh, Cozad LOCAL, and Cozad Community Health Systems, with more supporters joining in.
Join Jack’s Welding for a day filled with music, food, community, awareness, and most importantly, kindness.

Call now to connect with business.

07/17/2025

Cozad Chamber of Commerce saw an amazing turnout for Bands, Brews, and BBQs last weekend!

Downtown Cozad was buzzing with activity on Saturday, July 12, as the Cozad Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Bands, Brews and BBQ event.