Growing up on a farm, I had the opportunity to learn what it was like to be a part of making things grow. Whether it was growing crops or raising hogs and cattle, I always found satisfaction in being a part of the process and experiencing a sense of accomplishment when everything came together. Although I played a role, I always knew that many other people and external factors played a huge role as well. Some things were obvious (getting timely rains), and other factors were more subtle and maybe included others working with me to get the desired outcome. This carried over for me when it came to growing a business and helping to grow a community. You play a role, but it takes a team, some risks, and some blessings along the way. It is for that reason that I always appreciate those who work behind the scenes to move our communities forward.

This past week, the North Platte area lost one of those leaders, Andy Olson. Andy played a huge role in not only growing a very successful agricultural enterprise but also making a huge impact on the economic development of our region. And he did all of this with very little fanfare. He and Bob Lundeen were two individuals who quietly worked behind the scenes to make a major influence on our area’s economy. Unfortunately, we lost both of them this year. They will be truly missed. Fortunately, like most great leaders, they had a strong group of leaders behind them who would not only continue their own endeavors but also continue leading development for the region. Their impacts were felt and appreciated, and my prayers continue to go out to their families and friends.

I was able to spend some time in Lincoln over the past couple of weeks, including meeting with Speaker John Arch to discuss his plans for the coming legislative session. I have enjoyed watching the Speaker operate and have great respect for his management style. He is a very principled individual who has good instincts for what needs to be done and how to make it happen. I am very confident that we will have a very productive session beginning in January because of the work he is doing now to plan for what’s ahead.

Although many state Senators have seen each other at various events and legislative hearings, we will have our first official gathering on December 7 and 8 when we meet for the annual Legislative Council. This is an event where all Senators get together for some socializing and early planning for the 2024 Session, which begins on the first Wednesday of January. This will also be a good first look at pending issues we will likely face in the next session and get a good feel for individual Senators’ priorities.

As many of you know, Governor Pillen appointed Senator Tom Briese to fill the State Treasurer position vacated by John Murante. As a Senator, Briese chaired the Executive Board and served on the Revenue and Education Committees. He was not eligible to seek re-election in 2024 due to term limits. There were many applicants for the position, but in the end, Governor Pillen appointed Fred Meyer to serve as District 41’s new Senator. Julie and I were at the UNL at the same time Fred attended, and we have been members of Ag Builders of Nebraska for several years since then. Fred’s business and agricultural background as a farmer and cattleman will be a great addition to the Legislature, and I look forward to working with him!

Please continue to keep me apprised of issues that are important to you. It is a privilege to serve as your State Senator, and I will continue to give my full effort to make a positive difference for the District and the State. You can reach me at mjacobson@leg.ne.gov or by calling my legislative office at 402-471-2729.