NORTH PLATTE – Sunday, March 1st, the North Platte Catholic Schools will hold the 51st annual Irish Fest celebration at St. Patrick’s High School, 500 S. Silber, from 12:00 Noon to 3:00 p.m. The entire community is&nbsp; invited to get into the Irish spirit with a day full of family fun! The event features a homemade roast beef&nbsp; dinner, mini carnival games and prizes, Fun Jumpz, a silent auction, bake sale, and raffle. The event is open to&nbsp; the public and all tickets are purchased at the door. Proceeds support the North Platte Catholic Schools. 

This year’s Irish Fest Raffle offers the following prizes: $250 and $100 cash prizes, two $250 Kwik Stop gift cards, $200 Dave’s Place March Madness, 55” TV, and Ice Cream for a Year at Double Dips Ice Creamery. Raffle tickets are $2.00 each and are on sale now at any of the North Platte Catholic Schools offices, or from any North Platte Catholic Schools student. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the event on March 1st. The raffle drawing will be held at 2:50 p.m., and you do not have to be present to win. 

The Irish Fest silent auction will be held online. Anyone is welcome to bid by registering at: www.bidpal.net/irishfest26. Bidding will open at 8:00 a.m. on February 28th, and will close at 2:50 p.m. on March 1st. 

Irish Fest, originally called “Mardi Gras,” was first celebrated by the North Platte Catholic Schools on Tuesday, February 11, 1975. In the early years it was held on Fat Tuesday prior to the start of the Lenten season. Later it was changed to Sunday, and has been a tradition since. For the past 50 years, Irish Fest has involved hundreds of volunteers and proceeds have provided hundreds of thousands of dollars to the operating budget of the North Platte Catholic School system.

Contact Endowment Director Wendy Dodson, 534-5939, w.dodson@npcschools.org, for more information.

51st Annual Irish Fest to be held Sunday Hosted by North Platte Catholic Schools

NORTH PLATTE, NE, February 24, 2026 -- North Platte High School’s Advanced Acting class will present their children’s show,&nbsp;Shelly’s Flipped Fairytales&nbsp;on March 6th at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Shelly’s Flipped Fairytales&nbsp;is funded through a REACH Grant with the North Platte Public Schools Foundation and Fat Dogs that will travel to all of the district elementary schools throughout the last week of February and first week of March.&nbsp; To end their tour, there will be a free public performance for the community on March 6th at 7:00 pm in the North Platte High School Performing Arts Center. Written by the students of the class, this twist on fractured fairytales is sure to have you giggling with your kids.&nbsp;

Over the course of the past two months, students have written, revised, cast, built, and rehearsed this silly show about a group of “fourth grade students” coming together to put on a production for their school.&nbsp; When the boys decide to go rogue and the girls aren’t having it, some pretty ridiculous hilarity ensues.&nbsp; Senior Pluto Axthelm states, “This show has been super fun to write and produce as a class! It was really fun to think back to what we were like as kids while writing these characters.” The class of 22 students have come into the class with all levels of experience. Junior student and newcomer, Joselyn Torske said, “Preparing for this show has been nothing short of amazing. As someone who has never stepped on a stage, this has been one of my favorite experiences. All of the actors I’m alongside are all so, SO incredible. The purpose behind all of this - the smile on the kids’ faces - is something we all look forward to! The theatre community in general is one of a kind.”&nbsp;

Director Brittany McDaniel is excited to continue the tradition of this traveling show for the fourth year.&nbsp; “The Reach Grant through the Foundation has helped make this possible and we love that area students look forward to seeing us every year. It’s a chaotic few weeks, but it is always more than worth it!” Admission for the performance is just a free will donation at the door.&nbsp; They will also be selling wooden flowers as their spring fundraiser before and after the performances.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NPHS Advanced Acting Class Presents Shelly's Flipped Fairytales

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced David Briggs, CEO of Sustainable Beef in North Platte, as his distinguished guest at this year’s State of the Union address. &nbsp;

“Nebraska is the Beef State, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Third District, where we lead the nation in cow-calf production. I’m proud to recognize our state’s leading economic industry by welcoming David Briggs, CEO of Sustainable Beef in North Platte, as my State of the Union guest. Sustainable Beef is a rancher-owned processing plant built by producers who wanted more control over their product and a stronger future for their families and communities.&nbsp;“That same principle of empowering hardworking Americans with more control over their livelihoods has guided my work in Congress. Over the past year, I have advanced policies aimed at cutting red tape, expanding market access, strengthening domestic processing, and supporting the producers who feed and fuel our nation. David represents the very best of Nebraska’s grit, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, and I’m honored that he accepted my invitation.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

BACKGROUND: &nbsp;David Briggs was raised on a diversified farm and ranch and has spent nearly 40 years supporting producers and strengthening the agricultural industry. As CEO of Sustainable Beef in North Platte, he is leading the development of a rancher-owned, producer-focused processing facility in the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills, home to some of the world’s finest cattle. &nbsp;&nbsp;Sustainable Beef brings cattlemen and investors together in a vertically integrated model designed to expand processing capacity, strengthen the supply chain, and better align producers with retailers and consumers. Following their grand opening in March of 2025, Sustainable Beef now employs 1,000 people and processes 1,500 cattle a day. This new state-of-the-art facility is projected to drive $1.2 billion in economic activity annually, benefiting communities and families across Nebraska. &nbsp;

Adrian Smith Welcomes Sustainable Beef CEO to State of the Union Last Night

The Hot Sheets: February 25, 2026

The North Platte Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying an individual connected to an attempted burglary at a downtown business.

According to authorities, the person pictured is wanted for questioning in connection with an attempted burglary at Tallmon Jewelers in the 500 block of North Dewey Street. The incident occurred on the evening of Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026.

Police are asking anyone who recognizes the individual — or the clothing, shoes, backpack or bicycle shown in the released images — to come forward. Investigators say even small details could be crucial in helping identify the suspect.

Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for anonymous tips that lead to an arrest or help solve this or any other crime.

Tips can be submitted in the following ways:

• Online: lincolncountycrimestoppers.com
• Facebook: Lincoln County Crime Stoppers
• Phone: 1-800-933-TIPS

Crime Stoppers reminds the public that tips can remain completely anonymous. “We don’t want your name — just your information.”

North Platte Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Person of Interest in Attempted Jewelry Store Burglary

North Platte, Neb. – Coffee lovers throughout the area were invited to North Platte Coffee Week, presented by Visit North Platte, February 8th through February 14th, 2026. This was a community-wide celebration of local coffee shops and tea stops that encouraged people to pick up a Coffee Passport, visit seven of the twelve included locations throughout North Platte and Lincoln County, enjoy a drink at each stop, and collect a stamp from the business for a chance to win prizes. Participants also had the opportunity to earn extra entries into the prize drawings by visiting additional locations beyond the required seven and by sharing photos on social media.

There were more than 583 Passports distributed, with 73 fully completed and submitted. In addition to those completed Passports, participants made 43 extra stops beyond the required locations. These numbers do not reflect individuals who participated but were unable to finish their Passport or did not turn it in.

Visit North Platte drew the winners of the prizes and announced them via Facebook live on the afternoon of Monday, February 23rd. One grand prize winner was randomly selected to receive $120 in local gift cards ($10 from each participating location) along with Visit North Platte swag. Another 12 more winners were also drawn. Each of them will receive a gift card to one of the participating locations plus assorted Visit North Platte items.

Prizes must be picked up at the Visit North Platte office, 101 Halligan Drive, by 5:00pm on Wednesday, February 25th. Additional winners will be drawn for any prizes not picked up. Each additional winner will have 24 hours (business days) to claim their prize before another winner is drawn. To keep up with these updates and see who the winners are, follow along on the Visit North Platte Facebook page.

Visit North Platte wants to thank each and every person that participated or helped to spread the word about our first ever North Platte Coffee Week as well as all of the locations that participated including: 7 Brew Drive-Thru Coffee, Allsorts &amp; Mug Coffee Shop, The Coffee Bin, Dunkin’, Einstein Bros. Bagels, The Espresso Shop, The Fix, Lou’s Coffee, Mellow Grind, Scooter’s Coffee, TJ Nutrition, and Voodoo Coffee. We appreciate you all so much for joining in on this first ever North Platte Coffee Week!

Thanks for sipping your way through North Platte! We will see you again in 2027!

Visit North Platte Wraps Up Coffee Week & Announces Prize Winners

Listen to the full interview on our Kubota Podcast

An Ogallala man traveling in Mexico to celebrate his grandmother’s 103rd birthday is now stuck under shelter-in-place conditions as cartel-related violence and widespread road blockades disrupt daily life and travel across parts of the country.

Joey Isenbart arrived in Mexico Thursday, flying into Guadalajara before traveling with family to his grandmother’s home about three hours away. What began as a routine family trip shifted dramatically over the weekend. Joey said that Saturday night, after a birthday celebration, he and his family saw vehicles on fire along the road — something he’d seen before on previous trips and didn’t think twice about.

But by Sunday morning, everything had changed. Joey said his cousin knocked on the door and told them, “You guys ain’t going nowhere. They just killed the big cartel guy. Roads are blocked off. They’re blowing up cars that block the roads off.”

The violence that followed commemorates one of the most significant developments in Mexico’s ongoing drug war: the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes — widely known as “El Mencho” — leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). El Mencho, considered one of Mexico’s most wanted criminals and a major figure in international drug trafficking, was killed in a military operation by Mexican forces on Feb. 22, according to government statements. He headed one of the country’s most violent and expansive criminal organizations, implicated in trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine, as well as extortion, fuel theft, and other rackets. 

The Mexican government reported that his death sparked immediate retaliatory violence across multiple states. Roads were blocked with burning vehicles, fires broke out, and clashes between cartel members and security forces erupted in at least 20 of Mexico’s 31 states.  The unrest has led authorities, including the U.S. Embassy, to advise shelter-in-place guidance for U.S. citizens in affected areas due to “ongoing security operations and related criminal activity.” 

For Joey and his family, the shift from celebration to crisis was stark. “We woke up yesterday to check in for our flight to leave this morning,” he said. “My cousin’s knocking on the door saying, ‘You ain’t going nowhere.’” He described a town that went eerily quiet as people fled the streets and shops shut their doors. “I’ve been coming here for 30 some years every year and I have never heard flies or mosquitoes. I heard them all day yesterday. This town was dead.”

Local authorities later drove through town with sirens and loudspeakers urging residents to remain indoors for safety. Within hours, family members received mass text alerts reinforcing shelter-in-place orders and instructions for American citizens to contact the U.S. Embassy. Joey said cell service has been “hit and miss” in recent days, complicating contact with loved ones back home.

Joey and his family attempted to leave early Monday for a scheduled 8 a.m. flight from Guadalajara, setting out around midnight. But about an hour from town, at the border between Michoacán and Jalisco, they encountered burning semitrailers blocking the highway. “It was blocked off by semis on fire… and no, you’re not passing,” Joey said. As they turned back, he said they heard gunshots in the distance.

Although Guadalajara’s airport remains operational and flights continue to be scheduled and canceled, Joey said the challenge is reaching it safely. “That’s the problem — getting there,” he said.

Joey emphasized that his experience staying with family in a smaller community is different from what many resort visitors are seeing in major coastal tourist areas. While some flights have been canceled or diverted in places like Puerto Vallarta, the situation for locals — especially outside resort districts — reflects deeper concern. Many residents have been told by family members familiar with the area to stay cautious, avoid going out alone, and avoid identifying themselves as Americans in public.

Locals have also interpreted symbolic signs of the unrest in ways that underscore their fear: Joey shared that in his town, people believe the half-mast flag hung over the central plaza was placed there by cartels as a message that, “he might be dead, but we’re still here.” While it cannot be independently verified, that interpretation reflects how deeply cartel influence is perceived among residents.

For Joey personally, the experience has been surreal and sobering. He said although he feels relatively safe staying within town limits, his family is on edge. “If you go out in the country, that’s where the most risk would be,” he said. “If you stay here in town, we’re safe for the most part.”

Officials and analysts warn that the death of a powerful cartel leader like El Mencho can create violent power vacuums as rival factions fight for control, leading to unpredictable and extended periods of unrest. That dynamic helps explain the scale and intensity of the road blockades, fires, and clashes unfolding across the region.

As of now, Joey and his family plan to wait a few more days to see whether roads reopen and travel routes become safer before attempting another departure. “Our main concern right now is can we even get to the airport?” he said.

In the meantime, he urges other Americans in Mexico to follow guidance from the U.S. Embassy and stay in contact with authorities. “Listen to what the embassy says — that’s a big deal for your safety,” he said.

🎙️Ogallala Man Inside Mexico's Cartel Lockdown: Flaming Roadblocks and Gunshots

The North Platte IronDawgs powerlifting team was at Omaha Central on Saturday, competing in the first fully-unified Nebraska High School Powerlifting Federation Championships. 

After the final deadlift hit the floor, the Girls' team walked out as state runners-up.

&nbsp;"This is the first year that Nebraska has had a fully-unified powerlifting championship," explained Coach Arttie Parker, "and we are competing against the best of the best across the state. It doesn't&nbsp;matter if you are Class A or Class D, the best lifters in the state are here, so this is an amazing accomplishment for these girls, and for this program. When you're competing against all of the Metro schools, you are competing against sheer numbers of athletes, but our kids came out and they moved some incredible amounts of weight and showed their grit and it paid off. I couldn't be more proud."

On the girls' side, four athletes finished as silver medalists, with Myah Porter, Abbie Hankla, Lauren Bowers, and Grace Wilke all finishing second. Additionally, Carlie Berliner grabbed a bronze medal, while Rylee Kissinger placed fourth." 

"Myah is dealing with some nagging injuries, or she would have been your state champion at 97 pounds. She was receiving treatment between the bench press and deadlift rounds, but she hung in there and fought for herself and her team. Grace set a state record in the bench press with her effort today, and set a couple more school records, Lauren broke all of her own school records today, and Abbie deadlifted 300 pounds at just 114 pounds of bodyweight. That's an insane number, when you think about it. Carlie is really hitting her stride at the right time of year, also, heading into Nationals."&nbsp; 

Also of note, Katie Titus set three more school marks, this time taking down the squat, bench, and three-lift total marks, while Rylee Kissinger, in her first year as a powerlifter, became the final NPHS qualifier for the USAPL High School Nationals meet in March.

On the boys' side, only three NPHS lifters qualified due to injury, and all three put on a good show. Juniors Alex Valdivia and Bode Kroon finished 5th and 6th respectively, while senior Cole Tomlinson also took home a 5th place medal. 

"We had a couple of lifters who have the numbers to be here, but Charlie Fonseca is injurerd right now, and Aadyn Smith missed the qualifying cut-off date as he had been dealing with a serious elbow injury from football. He's good to go for Nationals, however," Parker assured. "Alex is just finding out how strong he is, and he keeps setting school records as he grows. And Cole also set the school weight division record for bench press today. He just keeps finding little ways to get better all the time."&nbsp; &nbsp;

The IronDawgs will compete in a tune-up meet this coming Saturday at Niobrara-Verdigre, before taking a month to prepare for Nationals on March 27, 28, and 29 in Killeen, Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte IronDawgs Place at First Ever Nebraska Fully-Unified Powerlifting Federation Championships

The Hot Sheets: February 23, 2026

North Platte, NE — Val Hyde has officially announced her candidacy for the North Platte School Board, Ward 2, pledging a strong commitment to students, transparency in leadership, and meaningful collaboration across the community.

A 1999 graduate of North Platte High School, Hyde is proud to call North Platte home.

“This community helped shape who I am,” Hyde said. “Now, I want to give back by ensuring our schools provide every student with the opportunity to succeed.”

Hyde brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and service to marginalized communities. Throughout her career, she has worked to expand access to&nbsp;essential resources, early learning opportunities, and support systems that strengthen&nbsp;families and build brighter futures. Hyde believes that equitable access to quality&nbsp;education — starting in the earliest years — lays the foundation for stronger schools&nbsp;and a stronger community.

“As a school board member, my priority will always be students,” Hyde said. “Every&nbsp;decision we make must center on what is best for kids — academically, socially, and emotionally. Our responsibility is to create an environment where every student feel supported, challenged, and prepared for the future.”

In addition to her professional experience, Hyde is deeply involved in the North Platte community. Hyde also serves as the assistant coach of the North Platte High School softball team, where she emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and leadership — principles she plans to bring to the school board.

Hyde is running on a platform grounded in transparency and collaboration. She believes community members deserve open communication and clear decision-making processes from school leadership.

“Our schools function best when families, educators, administrators, and board members work together,” Hyde said. “I am committed to listening, building partnerships, and ensuring that community voices are heard. Transparency builds trust, and trust builds stronger schools.”

Hyde’s campaign will prioritize building a school system that supports the whole student — academically, socially, and emotionally. That includes advocating for strong support services, safe and welcoming schools, engaged families, empowered educators, responsible stewardship of district resources, and a culture where every student feels seen, valued, and encouraged to succeed.

“I care deeply about North Platte,” Hyde added. “This community invested in me, and I am ready to invest my time, experience, and energy back into our schools.”

For more information about Val Hyde’s campaign for North Platte School Board, Ward 2, or to get involved, community members are encouraged to reach out directly.

Val Hyde Announces Candidacy for North Platte School Board, Ward 2

CENTRAL NEBRASKA: The Nebraska Flyway Partnership has released a new report developed in cooperation with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business Administration’s Department of Economics. The report outlines the cultural, economic, and branding significance of the Central Platte River flyway corridor and spring Sandhill Crane migration for communities located there.

The Nebraska Flyway Partnership is a collaborative effort among tourism, conservation, and community organizations working to better understand, protect, and leverage the Platte River flyway as both a natural asset and a defining regional identity. By viewing the flyway as a shared regional resource rather than a single community’s attraction, the partnership aims to encourage cooperation and sustainable growth.

The report estimates total economic impact related to business output during the spring migration season reached&nbsp;$28.0 million&nbsp;in 2025, nearly double the&nbsp;$14.3 million&nbsp;recorded in 2017, representing a&nbsp;96% increase. This figure includes direct visitor spending as well as multiplier impacts as spending circulated throughout the regional economy.&nbsp;

Analysis estimated 35,400 unique visitors during the migration season, with an average stay of 3.1 days. This resulted in an estimated 108,686 total visitor days in central Nebraska.

Survey responses indicated that the largest share of visitors to central Nebraska (17.6 percent) originated from Omaha, Lincoln, and other areas of Nebraska outside the central region. Visitors also traveled from nearby states, including Colorado (15.0 percent), Minnesota (9.3 percent), Iowa (7.1 percent), and Wisconsin (5.0 percent). A notable share of visitors also traveled from coastal states, including California, New York and Florida.

Related labor income increased by 55 percent between the 2017 and 2025 migration seasons, exceeding the 29 percent increase in the Midwest Consumer Price Index during the same period. This demonstrates real growth in the annual economic impact over eight years. The report also confirms a 20 percent increase in full-year equivalent employment, a measure not affected by inflation or changes in real hourly wages. In addition, business sales and organizational revenue tied to the migration increased by 96 percent between 2017 and 2025.

The full report and related media are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://url7773.visitnorthplatte.com/ls/click?upn=u001.-2FNeH8p-2FsLlxQMB1JDpba0ASEpeOa0bRYHxHTKrJyXwGsFpoun4WKWczgMWgzXURwuXi0yEL8-2FXLnhUFpzCmED1vvmMa7mfTwa4tPt-2BG0aNjTu4I8dRQOIhDSNCyTmKf79luu_DTTmFYtQViI5ZMt5lmIaEIqDa90-2ByPplIqOxjwg0lU7QdcUh44DKqKmxOt4hQ-2FtX4jTYmULEavCAz1DtDKx6ixMfGjZiaiXhYCoprOQJmSbV6buMFjVEWfhtEx32WtzUvAxD7A-2BjbzcZN-2BVt-2BTH5g24fObfuZ-2Bg1GSYto7xc9OmFfYQZqWPZ4ckxQP1poQ9bz1l4PNNqZtSnQqdknRNPgEK1dJ9WW9yuPt-2BbtZrlEYE-3D">this link</a>&nbsp;(<a target="_blank" href="http://url7773.visitnorthplatte.com/ls/click?upn=u001.-2FNeH8p-2FsLlxQMB1JDpba0ASEpeOa0bRYHxHTKrJyXwGsFpoun4WKWczgMWgzXURwuXi0yEL8-2FXLnhUFpzCmED1vvmMa7mfTwa4tPt-2BG0aNjTu4I8dRQOIhDSNCyTmKf75V8Q_DTTmFYtQViI5ZMt5lmIaEIqDa90-2ByPplIqOxjwg0lU7QdcUh44DKqKmxOt4hQ-2FtX4jTYmULEavCAz1DtDKx6i4P6q8Ur1EM2mFoaizR7UIjAYLLKQYOw-2BdEgCTC9FR4SR2O3vwmj9AGfODJkLRpfJeEx1sihsl1R7XeyZIZstkGLUqNXrkG0u6XK9JrKZthSnOoPUJQBIHoYXbnU7wwqJCLVZr7RqEq8AiPCTW-2BwG58-3D">https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1wuHGe7SabTZShl3ILPUvxc7nP3Um7o6B?usp=sharing</a>) and through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://url7773.visitnorthplatte.com/ls/click?upn=u001.XX02Xz2Mx9bnJ1C0skIEHchOuevCMl3aYM1FtrbgRS2dX80ClRnyxEEUITsuXS4ajouI_DTTmFYtQViI5ZMt5lmIaEIqDa90-2ByPplIqOxjwg0lU7QdcUh44DKqKmxOt4hQ-2FtX4jTYmULEavCAz1DtDKx6i4jF5sKrW4oH9tWC3n6yLkYKt3TCfUR6cQavdBpkJZBe8LTLGuwNhfsWkcT2aRl5aWZl-2FP44Z8Jtj24dBJnGcFX0UKEXpRXqO7alpxM2Dh6b42KhIc7YNWTAHVlcyj2CTKOgc1cL-2B2CS6FMNfg-2BpJTk-3D">NebraskaFlyway.com</a>&nbsp;partner organizations.

Sandhill Cranes Economic Impact More Than $19 Million

Listen to the full interview with Mayor Brandon Kelliher on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte Mayor Brandon A. Kelliher said the City Council moved quickly through a short agenda this week, approving a key piece of street-maintenance equipment and taking steps tied to clearing another deteriorated property.

“It was pretty short,” Kelliher said during a radio interview with Allison Peck. He said the meeting included “about 10 minutes of council,” followed by “a relatively short executive session,” and council members were leaving “by about six o’clock.”

One of the main items was approval to purchase a Cimline crack seal kettle, a tool used during street maintenance to keep sealant hot while crews fill cracks in pavement. Kelliher said the city’s current unit “was not functioning very well,” and that was the reason it needed to be replaced. He added the existing kettle was “somewhere around 10 years old,” though he noted he was not certain of the exact age.

Council members also held a public hearing related to a purchase agreement for property at 3111 W. 19th St. Kelliher said it is another location the city plans to address using state grant funds.

“This is another home or property that we’re using the state grant funds to purchase and demolished,” he said. Kelliher described the structure as “a rather old mobile home somehow connected with a house structure,” adding that it has “fallen into disrepair.”

Kelliher said the city expects to move forward with the purchase, then clear the site. “Most likely the city will proceed with this purchase agreement and then we’ll clear the property at some point in the next couple of months,” he said. He said the lot should be “available for sale sometime this fall.”

The interview also turned to elections and civic participation, with Kelliher encouraging residents to register, learn about candidates and vote. “It’s an election year, pretty important for people to vote,” he said.

Kelliher discussed turnout trends and why local races can be decided by a relatively small share of voters. He said participation in federal elections is “usually around 53% somewhere in that vicinity,” and in non-presidential years like 2026, turnout is often lower. He urged voters to take time to learn about candidates. “If you’re going to vote, please take the time to educate,” Kelliher said.

He also pointed to key election dates. Nebraska’s statewide primary election is May 12, and the general election is Nov. 3, according to the Nebraska Secretary of State’s elections calendar.  Early voting is also part of that timeline. The Secretary of State’s office notes that regular early voting ballots are not sent or voted until at least 35 days before a primary or general election. 

Kelliher said 2026 is also a milestone year nationally, noting the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. He said a calendar of local events tied to the anniversary is being developed in cooperation with the Lincoln County Visitors Bureau.

Kelliher, who has served as North Platte’s mayor since 2020, said he expects to revisit election issues often in the months ahead. 

🎙️Kelliher Recaps Short North Platte City Council Meeting, Urges Voters to Get Ready for 2026 Election

Listen to the full interview with Jeff Smeltzer on our Kubota Podcast

Mid-Plains Community College is offering several upcoming community classes and events this spring.

A four-week quilting class begins next Wednesday at the North Campus. The course runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and costs $80. Participants are asked to bring their own sewing machine and will complete quilting squares by the end of the session.

A three-week breathwork course titled Beyond Box Breathing begins March 9. The evening sessions focus on breathing techniques, nervous system regulation and the mind-body connection. The cost is $35.

Two one-night retirement planning workshops are scheduled for March 3 and March 26 from 6 to 9 p.m. The $39 registration fee covers individuals or couples.

Hunter education classes for youth will be held March 12 through 14, with evening sessions Thursday and Friday and a Saturday morning class.

Parents are also encouraged to mark their calendars for Summer Launchpad on April 1 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the North Campus. The free event brings together local organizations offering summer camps and youth programs, allowing families to plan summer activities in one location.

In addition, MPCC’s next CDL truck driving class begins April 6. Those interested in changing careers or earning a commercial driver’s license are encouraged to contact the college.

For more information or to register for any class, visit mpcc.edu or call Mid-Plains Community College.

🎙️MPCC Announces Quilting, Breathwork, Retirement Planning and Summer Youth Event

Listen to the full interview with Ryan Purdy and Daniel Stinman on our Kubota Podcast

The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors opened its February meeting by celebrating a major milestone — the completion of a new electrical technology building on the North Platte Community College North Campus.

MPCC President Ryan Purdy said the project has been about 18 months in the making and marks the first new instructional building constructed on the North Campus since the mid-1980s.

The state-of-the-art facility will house the college’s electrical technology and electrical automation programs. Purdy said the previous lab space was overcrowded, with students working in tight quarters. The new building nearly doubles the available square footage and provides expanded room for hands-on training.

He described the program as the premier electrical technology program in the state and credited passionate faculty for its strength. Instructors are currently installing specialized equipment and workstations, with classes expected to begin in the new space before the end of the March semester.

Purdy said the investment reflects the growing importance of skilled trades across western Nebraska. He noted continued economic development in the region and strong demand for trained workers in fields such as electrical, HVAC, auto body and welding. Many of those programs can be completed in about one year, allowing students to quickly enter the workforce with an associate degree.

Following the ribbon cutting, the Board moved into its regular meeting. Student trustees provided updates from the North Platte and McCook campuses, including athletic activities now underway for basketball, softball, baseball and golf.

The Board also welcomed interim golf coach Mitch Carter, who replaces Will Pierce. Carter, originally from Australia, has been in Nebraska for several months and is currently working at Lake Maloney Golf Course while coaching the team this spring.

Faculty Senate representative Dr. Aaron McLean shared a student success story about a nontraditional student who completed refresher coursework at MPCC before earning a full-ride scholarship to the Creighton University College of Pharmacy.

Board members approved several action items during the meeting. The Board entered into a three-year audit engagement with Dana F. Cole &amp; Company, as required by federal and state law. The agreement covers annual financial statement, federal financial aid and enrollment audits for the 2025-26 through 2027-28 fiscal years.

The Board also approved a bid from Mid-West Barrier of Bertrand for new windows on the first floor of McMillen Hall. The project will take place over the summer, with staff temporarily relocated during construction.

Tuition increases for the 2026-27 academic year were also approved. The adjustment represents about a 5 percent increase across the board. Purdy said the changes keep MPCC in line with other rural Nebraska community colleges while maintaining financial responsibility. Housing and meal rates will also increase by 5 percent, along with an additional $100 per semester for apartment-style units. State law requires college housing and meal plans to be self-supporting, meaning tax dollars cannot be used to subsidize those operations.

Despite the increases, college officials emphasized that more than $1 million in scholarships is available for students beginning this fall. Applications for MPCC scholarships are due March 1 at mpcc.edu.

The next Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for March 18 in North Platte.

🎙️Mid-Plains Community College Celebrates New Electrical Technology Building, Approves Tuition and Housing Increases

Listen to the full interview with Caitlyn Jacobson and Liam Pederson on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb. - As Nebraska 4-H Member Month gets underway, local families have a chance to learn more about the wide range of opportunities available through 4-H in Lincoln, Logan and McPherson counties.

Caitlyn Jacobson, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator with University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension, said February is an ideal time for families to explore what 4-H has to offer. An open house is scheduled for Feb. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the extension office, 348 W. State Farm Road. Families can stop by to ask questions, meet leaders and learn how to get involved.

One local 4-H member already making the most of those opportunities is Liam Pederson. The youth member is involved in multiple project areas, including dog, speech, horticulture and shooting sports.

In horticulture, members grow and care for plants, often starting in a greenhouse before bringing their entries to the county fair. Plants are judged and awarded ribbons based on quality. In shooting sports, youth work with certified instructors to learn safety and skill development. But for Pederson, the dog project stands out as his favorite.

He competes in agility with his Portuguese water dog, Rey. Agility courses require dogs to complete obstacles such as tunnels, jumps, an A-frame and a pause box. Pederson said the excitement of competition — especially waiting for results — is one of the best parts.

At the 2025 Lincoln County Fair, Pederson earned the title of “Top Dog” in his first year competing. Champions are determined by tallying points from ribbon placings, which range from white to purple. The competitor with the highest total is named champion.

Pederson said his bond with Rey began when his family brought the dog home from Missouri while he was in second grade. After earning the AKC Good Citizen Award on their second attempt, he decided to expand into 4-H competition. Now entering his third year in 4-H, he hopes to continue competing at both county and state fair levels.

Jacobson said youth like Pederson benefit from strong volunteer leadership within each project area. Local club leaders and certified instructors guide families through their first year and help youth develop skills as they grow.

In addition to project areas, 4-H members can participate in the annual communication contest. The contest includes prepared speeches, illustrated presentations, public service announcements and video communication entries. Jacobson said the program is designed to build confidence and life skills, with options for youth who may prefer behind-the-scenes roles rather than speaking live in front of an audience.

The Logan and McPherson counties communication contest will be held March 21 at Gandy Church. The Lincoln County contest is set for April 25 at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center. Registration is currently open through the extension office website, Facebook page or by calling the office directly.

Youth ages 5 to 7 as of Jan. 1 may participate as Clover Kids. Standard 4-H membership is open to youth ages 8 to 18.

Pederson encourages other youth to consider joining.

“4-H is really fun,” he said. “You make a lot of new friends. You get to compete.”

Jacobson said 4-H provides a safe space for young people to build critical life skills that will serve them long after their project work is complete.

Families interested in learning more are encouraged to attend the Feb. 17 open house or contact the extension office for additional information.

🎙️4-H Member Month Highlights Opportunities for Area Youth

Listen to the full interview with Gary Person on our Kubota Podcast

Here is a tightened and fully accurate version of the article, keeping it news-forward, AP style, 8th-grade reading level, no subheadings and using quotes appropriately:

The North Platte Chamber and Development Corporation is reporting progress on the Hershey Rail Park, new housing developments and several regional planning efforts as the community moves into a busy year.

Gary Person, CEO and president of the North Platte Chamber and Development Corporation, said the recent Farm and Ranch Expo drew 95 vendors, including 15 new exhibitors. He said Great Plains Health also provided 110 skin cancer screenings during the event, offering a valuable service to farmers and ranchers who spend long hours outdoors.

“It just went extraordinarily well,” Person said, crediting vendors, media partners and chamber staff for helping make the event a success.

At the Nebraska Legislature, Person said LB 719, introduced by State Sen. Mike Jacobson, would clarify how state match funding can be used for infrastructure tied to the Hershey Rail Park. As development moves forward, some infrastructure improvements — including turning lanes on U.S. Highway 30, utility upgrades and rail-related work — extend beyond land owned by the development corporation.

The state previously raised concerns about spending Rural Projects Act funds on property not directly owned by the corporation. Person said the bill would clearly allow that spending when it directly supports the project.

“It’s just common sense development,” he said. “Not all of it’s on the property that you own.”

The bill advanced out of committee on an 8-0 vote and has been read on the legislative floor without controversy. It includes an emergency clause, meaning it would take effect immediately if signed by the governor.

A second measure, LB 915, would expand the number of inland port authorities in Nebraska from five to six. Person said the chamber’s board of directors and the Lincoln County commissioners have taken positions opposing the bill.

“Before those of us that have been designated an inland port even get a chance to prove that we can make it work, the last thing we need to do is have it be a saturated market,” he said.

North Platte’s inland port authority continues planning for construction of a drop-and-pull yard and transload facility at the 300-acre Hershey Rail Park. Officials expect to finalize design plans soon, bid the project this spring and begin construction after a contractor is selected.

The project is also working through an energy capacity study process with Nebraska Public Power District and Dawson Public Power. Person said increased demand from data centers, cryptocurrency operations and artificial intelligence projects has changed how electric capacity is allocated statewide. The study process can take up to 18 months before capacity and delivery plans are finalized.

“It’s a complicated project,” Person said. “You don’t snap your fingers and hope it all happens. It’s a long-term thing.”

The state allows up to 10 years for an inland port authority to become fully operational, and Person said the rail park will likely use that full timeline. He said the long-term goal is job creation and expanded commerce for the region.

Housing development continues across North Platte as well. Person said projects along Francis Street include a 48-unit apartment complex and additional townhomes and single-family homes. At Mulligan Meadows, a chamber-led modular housing subdivision, 16 homes have been placed, with most already sold. Plans also include a 12-unit multi-family complex.

Additional multi-unit housing is under construction along East A Street and East Philip Avenue. A manufactured home subdivision planned near the Twin Platte Natural Resources District office could eventually include between 240 and 290 units built in phases. The homes would be placed on permanent foundations and designed to provide more affordable homeownership options.

“You can’t build your workforce, you can’t recruit without housing availability,” Person said.

He said North Platte employers have absorbed an estimated 400 workers displaced by a recent major employer closure in Lexington. Continued housing growth, he said, will help the community respond to workforce shifts and future recruitment efforts.

Lincoln County will hold a final public hearing March 16 at 10 a.m. in the District Courtroom on its updated comprehensive plan. The plan is designed to guide development for the next 10 to 15 years by identifying appropriate areas for industrial, commercial, agricultural and residential growth.

A regional housing study covering 18 counties in the Mid-Plains region is also nearing release. Person said preliminary findings show that while many smaller communities report housing shortages, nearly 30% of their housing inventory is vacant. In North Platte, the vacancy rate is closer to 11%, though that still represents several hundred homes.

“Those are issues that aren’t going to go away,” he said. “It’s going to get worse with time.”

Person said continued progress depends on long-term planning and leadership willing to support growth initiatives.

“It takes years and years and years to build something,” he said. “It doesn’t take very long to tear it down.”

🎙️Chamber Update: Rail Park Legislation Advances and North Platte Housing Projects Expand

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to talk about the team's most recent struggles and what could be the cause. We also discussed what he envisions the team needs to do going forward to get back to the successes the team had earlier in the semester.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #15 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

North Platte, Neb. - Mid-Plains Community College is offering a variety of community classes in the coming weeks, ranging from hands-on creative workshops to business development and wellness sessions.

Jeff Smeltzer, who coordinates community education efforts, said Valentine’s Day marks the start of two beginner-friendly crafting opportunities.

Basics of Knitting and Learning to Crochet begin Feb. 14 at Prairie Hand Knits on South Dewey in North Platte. Each course runs for four weeks and costs $35.

“They’re partnering with us to do a knitting and crochet class,” Smeltzer said. “It just blows my mind what people can do with that.”

The classes are designed for beginners and offer a chance for couples, friends or individuals to learn a new skill together.

On Feb. 17, the college will host Podcast Basics 101, a lunch-and-learn session from noon to 1 p.m. Participants will receive a meal while learning how to start and develop a podcast.

“You get a meal and you learn how to be a podcaster,” Smeltzer said. “You couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

The session will cover foundational steps for launching a podcast, including equipment basics and content development. Organizers say it can serve as a starting point for those interested in content creation, marketing or even a future career in media.

Later that same day, from 5 to 8 p.m., the college will offer Jumpstart Your Business Journey. The workshop, led by Darren Dale, is aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch their own businesses.

“If you’re looking to become an entrepreneur and get a business started, he can give you some tips and pointers on how to make a successful jump into the business,” Smeltzer said.

Looking ahead to March, Mid-Plains will offer a three-part wellness series titled Beyond Box Breathing. The sessions are scheduled for March 9, 16 and 23, with a cost of $35 for all three classes.

The course will be led by trauma-informed somatic breath facilitators John and Jenny Bonta. According to course materials, participants will “embark on a three-week journey to unlock the transformative power of your breath and its impact on your health.”

Smeltzer said the class focuses on using breathing techniques to promote relaxation and improve overall well-being.

Registration is open for all upcoming classes. Those interested can contact Smeltzer at 308-535-3687 for more information or to sign up.

🎙️Mid-Plains Community College Announces Valentine’s Day Classes, Podcast Workshop and Spring Wellness Series

Listen to the full interview with Terri Burchell on our Kubota Podcast

The North Platte Public Schools Foundation is preparing for its annual Bulldog Golf Classic while continuing to support students and classrooms across the district through multiple assistance programs.

The Bulldog Golf Classic is scheduled for Friday, May 29, at Lake Maloney Golf Course. The event, held in partnership with the Bulldog Booster Club, serves as a major fundraiser benefiting students throughout North Platte Public Schools, particularly at the high school level where enrollment is largest.

“It really supports the students at the high school because that’s where most enrollment is,” said Foundation Executive Director Terri Burchell. “But it really helps all of the students across the district.”

In addition to fundraising events, the Foundation administers the Prepared2Learn Fund, which helps students access school supplies and other educational needs. Burchell said the program goes beyond basic items to ensure students are prepared to succeed.

“We feel that each student should have their own set of things that they can kind of claim and take care of and have responsibility for,” Burchell said.

The Prepared2Learn Fund has also been used to assist students with needs such as eyeglasses, testing fees, and college visits. Burchell said the goal is to respond to individual circumstances when barriers arise.

“Sometimes you just have to think outside the box of what does that student need,” she said.

The Foundation also provides REACH teacher grants, which help educators fund classroom materials, field trips, and instructional resources not always covered by school budgets. Burchell said the grants are designed to reduce costs passed on to families while supporting long-term classroom use.

“It might be something that they’re able to use over and over again so that we don’t ask students to purchase those items,” she said.

Community members interested in participating in the Bulldog Golf Classic, sponsoring the event, or supporting Foundation programs can find more information at mppsf.org.

🎙️North Platte Public Schools Foundation Highlights Golf Classic and Student Support Programs

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to talk about the team's most recent 2 games and how he plans to prepare for a tough rematch against Lamar Community College on Saturday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #14 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

WASHINGTON — Nebraska’s federal delegation reacted Tuesday night following President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress on February 24, 2026.

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer said the president outlined what she described as the success of his policy agenda.

“Tonight, President Trump articulated the success of his policies to rebuild our military, keep our communities safe, lower energy costs, and realize the American dream for all U.S. citizens,” Fischer said in a statement. “I was pleased to hear the president renew his commitment to securing our borders, strengthening our economy, and cutting waste, fraud, and abuse. I look forward to continuing to partner with him to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

Congressman Adrian Smith also issued a statement following the address, pointing to recent legislative efforts and economic indicators.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts, delivering meaningful tax relief for hardworking Americans across the country,” Smith said. “We have seen robust engagement with key trading partners, helping to level the playing field for American farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and workers.”

Smith added, “Americans have seen lower gas prices, decreased inflation, secure borders, and mortgage rates reach a three-year low. While our work is far from over, I am encouraged by the progress we have made and the direction our nation is headed.

“I remain committed to working in Congress to build on this progress and ensure that Nebraska’s families, small businesses, and agricultural producers can continue to thrive. Together, we can make the Good Life even better for all Nebraskans.”

The president’s annual address outlined administration priorities on national security, border enforcement, tax policy, energy production, and economic growth, themes echoed in statements from Nebraska’s Republican delegation.

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