NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The North Platte Noon Rotary Club is gearing up for its second annual Pints for Polio event, taking place Wednesday, October 22, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Ape Ship Brewery and Double Dips Ice Creamery.

The fundraiser is a creative twist on a classic cause. Attendees receive a commemorative pint glass for a $20 donation, which can be filled with either a favorite beverage from Ape Ship Brewery or a scoop of ice cream from Double Dips. Additional tickets can be purchased for those who want more drinks or treats.

“This is a play on words,” said Mike Honerman, chair of the Noon North Platte Rotary. “One of the main functions of Rotary is to help eradicate polio worldwide, and this is just one of the ways we raise money for that mission. We wanted to make it fun and family-friendly.”

The event idea was inspired by similar fundraisers hosted by other Rotary clubs nationwide. Honerman and fellow Rotarian Pat Jacobson attended a Pints for Polio event in Broken Bow and decided North Platte should have one too.

Last year, the North Platte event raised roughly $3,000. With the Gates Foundation matching donations two to one, that equated to nearly $10,000 in support of global polio eradication.

Rotary International has been at the forefront of the fight against polio for decades. While the disease is virtually eliminated in the United States, it still exists in a handful of countries. Honerman stressed the importance of maintaining awareness and support: “Out of sight, out of mind is our biggest problem. Just one country could reignite the spread if we stop supporting eradication efforts.”

In addition to raising funds, the event offers locals a chance to learn more about Rotary and how they can get involved. Membership is by invitation, but the organization welcomes those interested in joining to attend meetings, participate in projects, and connect with community members.

“Rotary is more than just a lunch club,” Onnerman said. “It’s an international group working on projects to make a difference. You can get involved as much or as little as you want, and there’s a huge benefit in the relationships you build and the impact you make.”

This year, organizers hope attendees walk away not only with a pint of beer or a scoop of ice cream but also with a deeper understanding of polio and the ongoing effort to eradicate it. “Somebody once said we’re 99% there,” Onnerman said. “With events like this, we can push that even closer.”

The North Platte Noon Rotary Club would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Liz and Joel Bennett of Ape Ship Brewery and Lori Bergman of Double Dips Ice Creamery for hosting this year’s event. Their support helps make Pints for Polio a fun, family-friendly fundraiser while giving back to a global cause. Rotary members will be behind the bars pouring beer, rinsing glasses, and scooping ice cream, and none of it would be possible without their generosity and hospitality.

For more information about Pints for Polio or to make a donation, contact Mike Onnerman, Kirsten Parker, or Noah Harvey, or reach out to any North Platte Rotary Club member.

Eradicating polio—one pint at a time.

Beer, Ice Cream, and a Global Cause: Pints for Polio Hits North Platte

North Platte, Neb. –– The Conservation and Survey Division at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s School of Natural Resources has welcomed Valentina Ita as the new survey hydrogeologist for the west central service area.

Based at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte, Nebraska, Ita began her role on Aug. 20. As a survey hydrogeologist, she will study and characterize the High Plains Aquifer to enhance the division’s mission of providing information on groundwater and other natural resources across the state.

Ita, a native of Nigeria, earned a master’s degree in geology from the University of Toledo in Ohio, where she worked in the Hydro- and Environmental Geophysics Lab studying northwestern Ohio’s aquifer system.

“As a hydrogeologist, I was fascinated by the thought of working with one of the most groundwater-rich regions in North America through this new position,” Ita said.

Years of research and data collection have been dedicated to the study of the High Plains Aquifer. Ita will contribute to this information by working on test holes, examining water level data, tracking changes over time, and capturing data relevant to agriculture, industry, and communities.

“My hope is that the data and information I gather are found valuable and that I’m able to reach people who understand the importance of the water resources available to them,” Ita said.

For more information about the Conservation and Survey Division and the Ogallala Aquifer, visit snr.unl.edu/csd or contact Ita at vita2@unl.edu.

Conservation and Survey Division welcomes new survey hydrogeologist to west central service area

Halloween is right around the corner, and Mid-Plains Community College is getting ready to celebrate with some spooky, family-friendly fun.

The college will host its annual Trunk-or-Treat events on Tuesday, October 28, from 5 to 7 p.m. at both the North Platte and McCook campuses. The McCook event will take place outside McMillen Hall, while the North Platte celebration will be held in the northeast parking lot and under the pavilion on the South Campus.

The events are free and open to the public, offering a safe and fun way for families to enjoy Halloween. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and visit the decorated trunks for candy and treats.

Sydney Purdy with MPCC’s Student Life Department said this is the fourth year for the Trunk-or-Treat, and it’s become one of the most anticipated fall traditions on campus. “It’s really about getting the community involved,” she said. “Our students love putting together their trunks, and the kids love seeing them. It’s the biggest thing on campus every fall.”

Student groups and organizations go all out with creative trunk themes, some even beginning their planning as early as August. Purdy said it’s fun to watch the students’ enthusiasm build as the event approaches. “Some groups will have three or four trunks,” she said. “It’s great to see the smiles on everyone’s faces—the students and the kids alike.”

Purdy added that the Trunk-or-Treat also gives the community a chance to see how much the college has grown and changed in recent years. “A lot of people come out to campus and tell us, ‘I didn’t realize you had this here,’” she said. “It’s a great way to welcome the community and show how much our campuses have evolved.”

MPCC is also looking ahead to the holiday season, with its annual Santa’s Workshop event tentatively scheduled for December 2. The winter celebration will feature crafts, hot chocolate, carolers, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Costumes are encouraged for Trunk-or-Treat, and candy will be available while supplies last.

Halloween Fun Returns: MPCC Hosting Free Trunk-or-Treat Events Oct. 28

The Hot Sheets: October 17, 2025

A 24-year-old man from Cozad has been charged with felony theft and criminal mischief following an incident at a Gothenburg convenience store Friday morning.

Gothenburg police were called to the store around 6:30 a.m. after a report that no employees were present. Officers arrived and confirmed the store was unattended, prompting them to contact the store manager.

Inside, a skills game had been broken into, with tools nearby. The employee who was scheduled to be on duty returned and reported that $4,000 had been deposited into two bitcoin machines, even though he still had more than $14,909 in his possession.

Christian Joyce was taken into custody and arraigned Tuesday in Dawson County Court. His bond was set at 10% of $10,000, and his next court appearance is scheduled for next week, October 28, 2025, at 11 a.m.

Joyce is also facing a shoplifting charge from an earlier incident at a Lexington store this month. He had been released on his own recognizance in that case.

$18,909 Bitcoin and Cash Theft Leads to Arrest of Cozad Man in Gothenburg

The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lincoln County is preparing for a busy fall season with two upcoming community events — and a renewed call for volunteers to help support local children in the court system.

CASA Director Janet Vath announced that the organization will co-host a Halloween Party with the Lincoln County Children’s Museum on October 26 at AXIS and ACES. The event will run from 2 to 5 p.m. and feature games, a costume contest, and family-friendly activities. A $5 donation is suggested at the door, though Vath said anyone is welcome to attend regardless of ability to pay.

“It should be a lot of fun,” Vath said. “We just want families to come out and enjoy the afternoon together.”

Next month, CASA will host “Soups, Sips, and Stand Up for CASA” on November 14, featuring a soup supper, entertainment by a comedian, and both wine and whiskey pools. Guests can also purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win one of two quarter beefs, with tickets priced at $25 each. Tickets are available from any CASA board member, at the CASA office on the second floor of the FBNO building, or by calling 308-386-8393.

Vath said details for both events will be shared soon on CASA’s Facebook page and new website, which is expected to launch within the next week.

Alongside these community events, CASA continues its ongoing mission to recruit new volunteers to serve as advocates for children in the court system. Currently, 52 families — representing 93 children — in Lincoln County are waiting for advocates.

“Usually when you advocate, you advocate for the whole family,” Vath explained. “These children are in desperate need of voices in court.”

CASA advocates act as a consistent presence in a child’s life, gathering information about schooling, health, and home visits, and then reporting back to the court. Volunteers commit five to ten hours a month and complete a 30-hour training program that includes both classroom learning and court observation.

Vath emphasized that volunteers are not left to navigate cases alone: “I walk with you through your first case or two until you feel confident. We want advocates to feel supported every step of the way.”

She added that CASA’s role has become even more vital amid recent changes in the North Platte court system, including shifts in judges, attorneys, and caseworkers.

“Sometimes we’re the only constant person in these children’s lives,” Vath said. “Judges change, attorneys change, foster homes change — but CASA stays.”

Those interested in becoming a CASA volunteer or supporting the organization’s efforts can call 308-386-8393, stop by the office in the FBNO building, or visit CASA’s Facebook page for updates on upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.

🎙️CASA of Lincoln County Hosting Fall Events, Seeking New Advocates for Local Children

The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met Wednesday night at McCook Community College, covering topics ranging from international art and student engagement to new academic programs and facility improvements.

The meeting began with a special work session featuring the American Watercolor Society’s International Traveling Show, now on display at the Wrightstone Gallery in McCook through October 27. The exhibit includes between 40 and 50 pieces from artists around the world and is the only stop for the show in Nebraska. MPCC President Ryan Purdy noted that the college has already secured the exhibit’s return for fall 2026 and 2027.

During the meeting, board members were introduced to several members of the MPCC community, including advisors of the International Club, which currently includes students from more than 22 countries. The board also met residence life assistants and student trustees Vernon Graham and Jackson DeLaveau, who are helping lead student engagement efforts on campus this year.

New hires were recognized as well, including Dr. Evan Olson, a Gothenburg native and new math instructor in McCook, and Caleb Taylor, the new Business and Community Education administrative assistant. The board also honored Karen Haller, assistant to President Purdy, who is retiring after 26 years with the college.

Among action items, the board approved the creation of a Pickleball Club, reflecting growing student interest in the sport. Purdy said the club will begin at the student level but could expand into a competitive athletic program in the future.

The college also approved the purchase of two 2022 semi-trucks for the CDL training program, expanding the fleet to five vehicles. The additions will allow students to train on both automatic and manual transmissions, preparing them for a wider range of driving opportunities.

In other business, the board accepted a bid from Beverage Construction for just under $85,000 to complete soil work and site preparation on the North Platte campus. The project will prepare space for future student housing, a need driven by rising enrollment.

Enrollment continues to trend upward across all MPCC campuses. Overall enrollment has increased by 8.5% compared to last year — the college’s highest total since 2013–2014. Dual-credit enrollment is up 23%, highlighting the success of partnerships with area high schools.

Students and community members are also encouraged to take advantage of upcoming registration opportunities.

In community news, the North Platte campus will host a Trunk-or-Treat event on October 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. at South Campus. The event is free and open to the public.

MPCC will also celebrate its 60th anniversary this Saturday with a special volleyball game against Otero. A recognition ceremony begins at 1:55 p.m., followed by the first serve at 2 p.m. Admission is free.

College officials say they’re encouraged by the momentum heading into the new year, pointing to growing enrollment, student engagement, and community involvement across all MPCC campuses.

🎙️ MPCC Board of Governors Highlights Art Exhibit, Enrollment Growth, and New Additions

The Hot Sheets: October 16, 2025

Fort Dodge, Iowa – The Mid-Plains Community College rodeo teams wrapped up their fall competitions with strong performances at the Triton Stampede last weekend.

The men’s team finished atop the team standings with 1135 points, while the women’s team finished third behind Dickinson State and Black Hills State.

Kahiwa Augustiro earned the all-around cowboy title with a second place finish in bareback, a third place finish in steer wrestling and a fifth place finish alongside teammate Jace Richter in the team roping event.

Matt Miller earned the right to be called the reserve all-around champion with a third place finish in tie down roping and a seventh-place finish in team roping, competing alongside Kaden Haake of Southeast Community College.

In the bareback event, Jackson Lunn claimed the top spot earning 145 points over the two-day event. Koy McAllister earned the gold buckle in saddle bronc, while Trace Scarlavai returned to the top of the podium with a first-place finish in bull riding.

On the women’s side, Laynee Ohm led the charge with a first-place finish in goat tying and also placed tenth in team roping with partner Laysha Cottrell. Whitney Lake contributed valuable points with a second-place finish in breakaway roping, posting a time of 3.1 in the short go.

With the fall regional rodeos now complete, the MPCC rodeo team shifts focus to its annual fall timed event fundraiser. The event will take place on Nov. 8 at the Kiplinger Arena in McCook.

Bareback Riding1. Jackson Lunn2. Kahiwa Augustiro

Steer Wrestling3. Kahiwa Augustiro9. Koy McAllister

Breakaway2. Whitney Lake10. Kaehu Dejesus-Beaudet

Saddle Bronc Riding1. Koy McAllister

Tie Down Roping3. Matt Miller4. Zach Miller

Team Roping5. Jace Richter &amp; Kahiwa Augustiro7. Matt Miller &amp; Kaden Haake (SECC)10. Laynee Ohm &amp; Laysha Cottrell

Bull Riding1.&nbsp;Trace Scarlavai2. Brock Fry6. Kahiwa Augustiro

MPCC rodeo teams finish fall season at Triton Stampede

The Hot Sheets: October 15, 2025

North Platte, NE — What began as a small garage project in Georgia has become one of North Platte’s newest downtown success stories. Hide Park Apparel celebrated its official ribbon cutting this week, drawing a packed crowd that filled the shop and spilled onto the sidewalk outside—marking another milestone for the creative small business that’s turning old footballs into game-day fashion.

Owners Josh and Katelyn Sperle were joined by friends, family, and community leaders for the ceremony, hosted by the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation. The event highlighted both the business’s rapid growth and its deepening local roots.

“It’s just such a cool place for them to be downtown,” said Chamber President and CEO Gary Person. “They’ve fixed it up beautifully. It’s a production facility, but it’s also a space that really reflects their story. What started as a part-time hobby has grown into a full-time business and now a brick-and-mortar shop. It’s the kind of American dream story we love to see come true.”

Person noted that Hide Park Apparel was recently named Entrepreneur of the Year, selected from dozens of new businesses in the area. “They really springboarded the whole thing through our Big Idea competition,” Person said, referring to the local pitch contest where winners earn investment money for their business ideas. “To see them go from that idea stage to what they’ve built now—it’s really inspiring.”

Sperle recalled that journey with a mix of humor and humility. “We repurpose game-used footballs and make really cool game-day gear out of them—mostly hats, but also keychains and earrings,” he said. “We’re on pace to repurpose about 700 footballs this year and sell 10,000 hats. It’s grown way beyond what we imagined when we started.”

Hide Park’s path began in 2019 as a passion project in Atlanta. When the Sperles moved back to Katelyn’s hometown of North Platte, they continued building the business, eventually pitching at the Big Idea competition, where they earned second place and a $5,000 award to reinvest in equipment and inventory.

“This community has really believed in us,” Sperle said. “Winning the Entrepreneur of the Year award was humbling. We didn’t even know we were in the running. To see so many people show up today, wearing our hats and supporting what we’re doing—it’s just overwhelming in the best way.”

During the ribbon cutting, Sperle also took time to thank those who helped make their downtown location possible, from local contractors to the Prairie Arts Center’s Public Art Fund, which led the creation of a vibrant canteen-themed mural along the building’s wall. “We wanted something the whole community could be proud of,” Sperle said. “They absolutely nailed it.”

Mayor Brandon Kelliher congratulated the couple during the ceremony for their investment in the community. “The more small businesses we have, the better off we are,” Kelliher said. “You’ve taken a risk to build something here, and we’ll all be telling this story for years.”

Hide Park Apparel now ships to over 30 states, and the Sperles say they plan to keep expanding while maintaining their North Platte home base. “We want this to be a place the whole community can be proud of,” Sperle said. “We’re so grateful for the support—and the prayers—as we keep growing.”

Hide Park Apparel Celebrates Ribbon Cutting and Entrepreneurial Success

On today's first episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed the opening days of the preseason, how this young team is reacting to the early stages of the season, and what to expect in the opening games of the season.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #1 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

The North Platte Public Schools Foundation and KIDS Klub are inviting the community to enjoy a night under the stars at this year’s Movie on the Field event. Sponsored by NebraskaLand Bank, the annual fall tradition allows families to watch a family-friendly movie while supporting local afterschool programs.

This year’s featured film, Moana 2, was chosen by the community through a social media vote. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with the movie starting at 6 p.m. 

Families are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks, and enjoy tailgate-style concessions including hamburgers and hot dogs. Admission is free, with a suggested donation supporting KIDS Klub.

The event also coincides with National Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide celebration of afterschool programs keeping their “lights on” for students.

 Carrie Lineman of KIDS Klub said, “We want everyone in our community to know that they're invited...just a great way for us to give back to the community that supports us.”

Attendees can also receive stadium blankets featuring the KIDS Klub logo, available to the first 100 families. Organizers ask that guests respect the field, avoiding sunflower seeds or gum, as the event takes place on the school’s athletic field.

Now in its third year, Movie on the Field offers families a fun, free, and safe evening while supporting afterschool programs in North Platte.

🎙️Movie on the Field Returns to Support KIDS Klub

On today's special edition episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss how the preseason games of the season at the All-American Showcase in Wichita went, and thoughts going into another round of preseason games.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #2 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The North Platte City Council worked through a full agenda Tuesday night, approving bond authorizations, new city equipment financing, and forwarding an annexation study for future review.

Mayor Brandon Kelliher recapped the meeting Wednesday morning on Good Morning North Platte on FM 98.1/AM 1410, KOOQ-AM, calling it “a pretty good meeting” — one without conflict and full of progress on ongoing city projects.

<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">LISTEN TO INTERVIEW WITH MAYOR KELLIHER, SPONSORED BY NORTH PLATTE KUBUTA</a>

Among the consent agenda items, the council approved several liquor licenses, reappointed Joe Staroska to a second term on the Community Redevelopment Authority Board, and renewed a paramedic ride-along agreement with Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado. Kelliher said the partnership helps with firefighter and paramedic recruitment while giving students hands-on experience.

The council also approved a contract with Routeware, a company providing route-optimization software for sanitation trucks. The technology helps drivers create more fuel-efficient routes and documents collection stops with timestamped photos — a feature Kelliher said helps resolve occasional missed-trash disputes.

Another consent item involved a subdivision realignment on East 11th Street, allowing the Lincoln County Community Development Corporation to prepare lots for future housing construction.

Council members also discussed a property acquisition grant used to purchase and demolish unsafe structures. The city voted to counter an owner’s offer at half the asking price — a move Kelliher said likely means the deal won’t go through.

On the regular agenda, the council held a first reading for Ordinance 4228, authorizing up to $19.5 million in general obligation bonds to cover paving and water district projects completed in recent years. Kelliher explained that the bonds convert short-term “warrants” — essentially one-year construction loans — into longer-term municipal debt with fixed interest rates.

“Municipal bonds lock in the rate for five years,” Kelliher said. “After that, we can refinance or pay them off early if conditions improve.”

Council members also corrected a clerical error in the city’s salary schedule tied to last month’s budget approval. The change did not alter the overall budget amount.

The council approved lease financing for a new Elgin Pelican NP street sweeper, which recently arrived in North Platte. The $277,000 piece of equipment replaces one of the city’s older units, which will remain in service as backup.

Kelliher joked that before his term ends, he hopes to “drive the street sweeper” himself, calling the machine “pretty exciting.”

The council also ratified actions by City Administrator Lane Gross in his role with the League Association of Risk Management, which handles insurance matters for municipalities across Nebraska.

Council members voted to forward the 2025 Annexation Study for East Sixth Street to the city’s Planning Commission for review and public hearing. The study identifies small unincorporated “islands” surrounded by city property that could be annexed into North Platte.

The council also held a public hearing concerning property at Lakeview and Front Streets, where a company plans to expand equipment at an existing cell tower site. A lease agreement for the expansion is expected to come back for council approval later this month.

Finally, council members approved rezoning for property at 4684 and 4602 Rodeo Road, the site of the former drive-in theater on the west side of town. The area, currently zoned for agriculture, will shift to commercial zoning to allow for new business development.

The next North Platte City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, with possible follow-up discussion on the East Sixth Street annexation proposal.

“It’s been a busy stretch,” Kelliher said. “Between budget work, projects, and regular meetings, there’s a lot happening — but that’s a good thing for North Platte.”

🎙️​North Platte City Council Approves Bonds, Annexation Study, and New Street Sweeper Lease

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors approved the 2025-26 budget Wednesday during a meeting on the North Platte campus while also receiving updates on student life, faculty, and campus initiatives.

The meeting began with public hearings on setting the 2025 property tax requirement and adopting the college’s budget. No members of the public spoke during either hearing. MPCC President Ryan Purdy described the hearings as “pretty uneventful,” noting that most funding now comes from the state-funded Future Fund rather than property taxes.

“Our levy for the second year, our maximum, is $0.02,” Purdy said. “The board elected to stay with the $0.02 capital levy, which has been in place for about the last 10 years. That’s the funding we’re allowed to use for capital construction and facility renovation.”

The college’s total budget for all funds is just under $60 million, with $5.45 million funded through property taxes. MPCC maintains facilities across its 18-county service area, with a combined insurable value of $200 million.

Fall enrollment has increased 9.5%, and dual enrollment is up 24%, which Purdy said benefits students while supporting funding. “Right now in the fall of '25 compared to fall of '24, we’re experiencing about a 9.5% increase in enrollment, which is huge, and will help our funding. Dual enrollment has been fantastic…we’re seeing a 24% increase right now in dual enrollment across the service area,” he said.

Student trustees Vernon Graham of North Platte and Jackson Delevaux of McCook gave updates on intramurals, sports, concerts, and festivals. “It’s fun to hear the things that are going on—the intramurals, the student life, some of the concerts and festivals. Great to have students at the table to get their input,” Purdy said. 

Faculty representative Jesse Lovett highlighted English Department conferences and publications.

Other business included approving August bills totaling $1.4 million, settling a 22-year-old worker’s compensation claim, and carrying forward $18.6 million in unused budget authority. 

The next regular MPCC board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 15 at MCC East Campus in McCook.

🎙️MPCC Board Approves 2025-26 Budget, Reports Enrollment Growth and Campus Updates

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Lincoln County will soon roll out a new tool to help combat substance abuse: a real-time Opioid and Stimulant Monitoring System designed to track risk factors, protective factors, and community needs.

Erin Bone, coordinator for Substance Abuse Prevention with Community Connections, said the project is part of a regional effort funded through the Iowa State University Public Science Collaborative. Lincoln County was one of only a handful of counties in Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa selected to participate.

“This is a huge undertaking,” Bone said. “We’re getting a dashboard that helps us track risk and protective factors within our community. We’re really excited to launch it in the very near future.”

The dashboard will pull data from multiple partners, including Great Plains Health, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, and Stop Overdose Nebraska. That information will allow prevention teams to identify trends—such as age groups, neighborhoods, or language demographics most affected by substance use—and tailor outreach accordingly.

Bone explained that the system won’t collect personal details but will instead provide broad demographic snapshots. “We’re not looking at specific names or addresses,” she said. “It’s very baseline data, but it will help us target how we talk to people and how we get information out there.”

One early finding is that areas north of the railroad in North Platte are underserved, and Bone hopes the dashboard will guide resources where they’re most needed. Data will also measure the effectiveness of local interventions, allowing organizations to adjust strategies in real time.

Community involvement has been central from the beginning. Listening sessions with nonprofits, law enforcement, schools, and health providers helped shape what the system should track and how it should be used. The goal, Bone said, is threefold: reduce overdoses, support at-risk populations, and strengthen local partnerships.

“We want to reduce harm, whether that’s lowering substance use overall or just getting more Narcan into the right hands,” Bone said. “At-risk populations need extra support, and that improves quality of life for everyone. And this is a great way to bring our community partners together.”

Lincoln County is also working to expand access to resources. While only two local pharmacies currently distribute free Narcan, a vending machine stocked with the overdose-reversing medication is expected to be available soon.

Bone encouraged residents to get involved by staying connected online and helping spread the word. “Support doesn’t have to be financial,” she said. “Go to our Facebook, like our stuff, share our stuff. If you want to be more involved, give us a call or stop by our office.”

For more information, visit communityconnectionslc.org or call 308-696-3358.

🎙️Lincoln County Launching New Dashboard to Track Opioid and Stimulant Risks

Gift of Hope Cancer Foundation to host 22nd annual fundraiser Sept. 16

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — A steak dinner, auctions, and live music will all be part of the 22nd annual Gift of Hope Cancer Foundation fundraiser Tuesday, Sept. 16, at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds.

The evening begins with a social hour at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy a New York strip steak with baked potato, salad, dessert bar, and two complimentary drinks. Entertainment will be provided by the Flat Rock Irregulars, with a silent auction running from 5 to 7 p.m. and a live auction to follow.

Organizers Janet Cox and Kathy Hahn said the fundraiser plays a vital role in helping local cancer patients. The Gift of Hope provides financial assistance to families across western Nebraska — stretching as far as Lexington to the east, the Wyoming border to the west, and into South Dakota and Kansas. Support can include help with gas, utilities, and rent.

“All of our funding comes from donations and events like this banquet,” Hahn said. “Your donation means hope, relief, and strength for someone facing the fight of their life. No one should battle cancer alone.”

The foundation assists as many as 80 people each year, and every dollar raised stays in the region. Cox called the banquet “a really, really fun evening” and “a rewarding evening because we feel like we can help a lot of people.” She added that the community has been supportive across generations throughout the fundraiser’s 22-year history.

Organizers say the night promises not only good food and community spirit but also big-ticket auction items, including Husker volleyball tickets and Husker football tickets — with one package offering 50-yard line seats in the clubhouse.

Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Children 12 and under eat free. Tickets can be purchased by calling Jan at 308-539-4040, Sharon at 308-289-0985, or by visiting the Gift of Hope Facebook page.&nbsp;

Purchase tickets online&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/4kCX4q6">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎙️Serving Hope: Inside the Gift of Hope’s 22nd Annual Fundraiser

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Get ready, North Platte! St. Patrick’s Church is rolling out two full days of food, games, music, and family fun for its annual Block Party this weekend.

The celebration kicks off Saturday, Sept. 13, from 6:30 to 11 p.m. with an evening designed for adults. Guests can enjoy live music from Kim Baxter, a free-will donation nacho bar prepared by parish volunteers, and a beer garden featuring local craft brews from Ape Ship. The party takes over the parking lot at 5th and Walnut streets, and everyone is welcome — no church membership required.

Sunday, Sept. 14, from noon to 3 p.m., shifts the spotlight to families. Kids can jump into bounce houses, play cornhole and pickleball, or join games run by local sports teams, while parents enjoy a barbecue luncheon featuring shredded beef, scalloped potatoes, green beans, and pies for $12 per plate or $40 per family. The street north of the church will be blocked off to create a safe, festive space for everyone.

Raffles add extra excitement this year. Prizes include $500 cash, gift cards, and coveted reserved pews for Christmas Mass. A special $50 raffle offers one lucky winner a full year of tuition at North Platte Catholic Schools — only 200 tickets will be sold.

“Part of our faith is where God makes us part of His family. And what do families do? They get together,” said Father Johnathan Sorensen. “This block party is a big old family party.”

Maddy Krebs, a member of the organizing committee, said, “We wanted to create something for everyone — adults, kids, families, and anyone in the community who wants to come out. Seeing people connect and have fun is what makes it all worth it.”

She added, “It takes a lot of planning and support from local businesses and volunteers, but the smiles on people’s faces make it all worth it. I love watching kids play and families enjoy the day together.”

The weekend format, introduced three years ago, gives adults a night out while keeping Sunday fun for families and children. Volunteers and parishioners spend months preparing, with support from local businesses that donate meals, prizes, and other essentials.

“Community is at the heart of this event,” Father Sorensen said. “Whether it’s sharing a meal, winning a raffle, or just laughing together, it’s about building relationships and celebrating together.”

Whether you’re there for the music, the nachos, or the chance to win free tuition, St. Patrick’s Block Party promises something for everyone — making it one of North Platte’s can’t-miss community events of the season.

🎙️Music, Games, and Raffles: St. Patrick’s Block Party Hits North Platte This Weekend

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — After years of running boards, hosting shows, and chasing stories across Nebraska, Allison Peck is now the news director North Platte didn’t know it needed — until now. Listeners quickly noticed her arrival on the airwaves, sending emails and texts praising the “new news lady” — articulate, clear, and engaging.

Peck is Eagle Media’s storyteller behind North Platte Post and Sandhills Post, bringing a mix of experience, energy, and a passion for local stories.

“Allison was the one we were waiting for,” said Operations Manager Derek Beck. “We had a lot of people that applied for this job. We were super picky about it, so this job’s been open since April I think. We really, really wanted to make sure that we didn’t hit a single or a double — we really wanted to hit a home run and we were very patient.”

Peck’s journey in radio began in McCook in 2016. Then a college student, she balanced her time between running the board for live sports broadcasts and serving as an unpaid intern. She managed summer remote events, hosted her own show, and even delivered weather forecasts. Within a year, she was promoted to paid intern while pursuing theater and media communications at Doane University.

When she returned to McCook in 2019, Peck took on a full-time role in sales. She also hosted a midday show, continued weather reports, and occasionally board operated. She worked closely with the operations manager daily, an experience that gave her a front-row seat to the complexities of running a station.

Those years gave her a reputation for versatility. “Which you can see, is why she was a really great candidate for this job, because [she's] kind of a Swiss Army knife that knows how to do a lot of things,” Beck said. “...but I kind of turned [her] loose after three days and said, hey, go do it.”

In fall of 2020, Peck left McCook to move to Lincoln. She worked as a client marketing coordinator in sales for NRG Media from May 2021 through September. That fall, her first daughter, Raegan, was born, and Peck stepped away from broadcasting and sales to focus on motherhood.

The next three years were a whirlwind of moves — a return to McCook, a short stay in Mitchell, then a year in Ogallala. Along the way, Peck and her husband, Joseph — a North Platte native and now EMT — welcomed their second daughter, Ryleigh, this past April.

“Being a stay-at-home mom was the most rewarding and the most overwhelming thing I’ve ever done,” Peck said. “I loved every moment with my girls, but I also felt like I was missing a part of myself.&nbsp; — My husband even says I come home happier. I feel like everyone gets a better version of me.”

For Beck, who worked with Peck years ago in McCook, seeing her return to radio was both exciting and natural. “You kind of have it in your head who that person might be or what they would sound like,” he said. “Literally when I saw [her] application come through, I’m like box checked, box checked, box checked.”

Listeners have echoed his confidence. “I don’t know how many texts and emails I’ve had saying hey, we like the new news lady. She sounds really good. She’s very articulate. The news is really good,” Beck said.

Now based in North Platte, Peck has taken on the dual role of directing news coverage and hosting Good Morning North Platte at 9 a.m. on 98.1 FM. She describes herself first and foremost as a storyteller — a passion rooted in theater from the age of five and carried through her years of writing, reporting, and broadcasting.

“You do, you kind of light up about the news stuff,” Beck told her during their on-air introduction. “You’re easy to listen to. We’re just gonna continue to let you do some of the things that you enjoy doing. But I think that morning show on 98.1 has got your name kind of written all over it.” That show airs from 6 a.m to 10 a.m. with news and interview focus from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Peck said she hopes the community will share stories with her. 

“There’s only one of me and there’s a very big town,” she said. “If there’s news out there that I don’t know about that I should know about, if there’s an event happening that should be a story — yeah, definitely reach out. Let me know. It’s allison.peck@eaglemedia.com for my email and I’d be happy to take all the news.”

Eagle Media and the North Platte community are excited to welcome Allison Peck to her new home and newsroom. With her extensive experience, versatility, and passion for local storytelling, she is poised to become a familiar and trusted voice on the airwaves and online. The newsroom encourages residents to share the stories that make North Platte unique — helping Allison continue her journey of shining a light on the people and events that define the community.

🎙️ From Button-Pusher to News Director: Allison Peck Finds Her Voice at Eagle Media

Lincoln, Neb. - (October 17, 2025) - Visit Nebraska’s application cycle is now open for both the Marketing Grant Program and Community Impact Grant Program. The programs offer funding opportunities to communities and organizations to promote all Nebraska has to see and do to travelers.

The Visit Nebraska Marketing Grant Program encourages applicants to request funding for a variety of marketing activities to promote their destination, business, or event to the traveling public. The promotions might include the development of professional photography, participation in tourism industry seminars, strategic digital storytelling through influencer services, advertising through media sources and more!&nbsp;

Through the Community Impact Grant program, communities hosting large-scale events can apply for marketing assistance to attract a significant percentage of out-of-state visitors in an effort to generate favorable national and/or international press coverage for the state.&nbsp;The grant cycle is open until December 18, 2025. Grant recipients will be announced February 17, 2026.&nbsp;

<a href="https://visitnebraska.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=30cc1cad235a879fac111c22b&amp;id=5f5d396150&amp;e=65d6a9d786" target="_blank">Click here to view the grant guidelines.</a>

Visit Nebraska Marketing and Community Impact Grant Programs Open to Applicants

MCCOOK, Neb. — A lawsuit filed on October 15, 2025, in Red Willow County District Court aims to prevent the conversion of Nebraska's Work Ethic Camp in McCook into a federal immigration detention facility. The plaintiffs include former State Senator DiAnna Schimek and 13 McCook residents: Catherine McDowell, Dale Dueland, Jon Graff, Linda Graff, Matt Sehnert, Mary Dueland, Peter Mark Graff, Ronda Graff, Will Branham, Bruce Hoffman, Kaye Beick, Connie Haller, and Bruce McDowell.

Filed by Nebraska Appleseed, the 24-page complaint argues that Governor Jim Pillen’s plan oversteps constitutional authority by bypassing the Nebraska Legislature. The lawsuit names Governor Pillen and Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Rob Jeffreys as defendants. The plaintiffs contend that only the Legislature has the power to manage and repurpose state-owned penal institutions.

“Nebraska state law is clear: The governor does not have the unilateral authority to change the purpose of any public building. That’s the Legislature’s job,” said Robert McEwen, Legal Director of Nebraska Appleseed. “Our clients have expressed concern about the lack of transparency in making this decision and the many ways that replacing the Work Ethic Camp will cause harm to their community, including the loss of valuable services carried out by incarcerated men in the Work Ethic Camp.”

The Work Ethic Camp, established in 2001, is Nebraska’s only minimum-security rehabilitation facility of its kind. Inmates participate in community-based programs and work projects designed to teach job skills, foster rehabilitation, and maintain ties to the community. The lawsuit argues that converting the facility into an ICE detention center would disrupt these programs and negatively affect McCook residents who benefit from inmate labor and community services.

Governor Pillen announced the plan in August 2025, with the Trump administration branding it the “Cornhusker Clink.” The facility is expected to house up to 280 low- to medium-risk ICE detainees and to begin operations on November 1, 2025. Nebraska will continue to own and operate the facility, while the federal government reimburses the state for housing costs. According to information confirmed by a family member of a Work Ethic Camp employee, staff are continuing to work and train to meet ICE standards, remaining on payroll during the ongoing lawsuit and facility transition.

A hearing on the lawsuit is scheduled for October 24, 2025. The plaintiffs are seeking both a temporary restraining order and a permanent injunction to halt the conversion. Depending on the outcome, the McCook ICE facility could face delays, operational restrictions, or cancellation, leaving questions about the future of the Work Ethic Camp and its programs unresolved.

As the November 1 opening date approaches, the facility remains at the center of a legal, political, and community debate, highlighting the tension between state and federal priorities, local input, and the enforcement of immigration policy in Nebraska.

Lawsuit Seeks to Halt McCook ICE Facility Plan

by Chabella Guzman |<a href="https://preec.unl.edu/news/fifth-graders-explore-waters-uses-and-effects-annual-wet-event/"> PREEC Communications</a>

Scottsbluff, Neb. — The annual Water Education for Tomorrow (WET) event welcomed more than 300 fifth-graders Oct. 7-8 to the North Platte Natural Resources District (NPNRD) Campus in Scottsbluff. The two-day event featured nine stations where fifth graders rotated to learn about water and its many aspects through educational talks and hands-on activities. The event is a collaboration between the Educational Service Unit (ESU) 13 and the NPNRD.&nbsp;

“It’s just a chance for area 5th-grade students to come and learn about an important natural resource, ‘water,’ from experts from around the area,” said Dave Griess, ESU 13 professional learning coordinator. The event is a team effort as both the NPNRD and ESU 13 go over evaluations and tweak aspects of the event. They develop nine different stations and get presenters who are very informative and hands-on. “I think the kids love to learn about science, social studies, and natural resources, in different ways than in the classroom.”

Among the returning stations was “Water Safety,” run by the Scottsbluff Rural Fire Department.&nbsp;

“We’re telling them about fire and water safety,” said Carissa Schank-Grubbs, Scottsbluff Rural Fire Department fire chief. “They go to the pool, and go to the lake, and we do have lots of bodies of water around here, and it’s important for kids to know about life jackets and how to use them.” The highlight for the students was at the end of the session, when they would get to spray the fire department's firehose.&nbsp;

Each station had something the students enjoyed and dealt with water. “We have a fantastic campus where we can have nine different stations and 200 kids all spread out. The topic also fits well with our purpose, water resources,” said Kyle Ann Hopkins, NPNRD data management and outreach coordinator.&nbsp;

Many of the children note their favorite part involves the animals the Riverside Discovery Zoo brings out to the event. This year, a short-tailed python visited with the students on Tuesday. The presenter explained to the students how water can make it easier or harder for snakes to burrow in the ground, where they build homes or wait to attack prey.&nbsp;

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