The 35th Annual Buffalo Bill Farm &amp; Ranch Expo wraps up today with its second and final day, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the D &amp; N Event Center in North Platte.

The two-day event is hosted by the North Platte Chamber and Development’s Agribusiness Committee and brings together ag producers, businesses, and community members from across the region for exhibits, demonstrations, and conversations focused on agriculture and rural life.

The Post provided coverage throughout the expo on its Facebook page, along with on-site coverage from Z 93.5 Country and Q Country Classics 107.3. Below are just a few of the video interviews captured during the event.

Watch and listen for more coverage on Thursday, presented by Justin Thompson Agency with American Family Insurance.

Day Two Underway at 2026 Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch Expo

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

The North Platte City Council wrapped up a brief meeting this week, approving several appointments, agreements, and routine items, according to a post-meeting recap from Mayor Brandon Kelliher.

The meeting lasted just 13 minutes, making it one of the shorter sessions during Kelliher’s tenure as mayor. He noted that while short meetings do happen from time to time, most upcoming council meetings are expected to be longer due to pending agenda items.

During the meeting, council members approved the mayor’s appointment of Sarah Ostmeyer to the Library Advisory Board. City leaders highlighted the importance of volunteers who give their time to serve the community through advisory roles.

The council also approved the reappointments of Stephen Granger, Jim Griffin, Casey Anderson, Steve Olson, and Glenn Van Velsen to the North Platte Historical Preservation Commission. The commission works to preserve and maintain historic structures throughout the city, particularly in the Canteen District and downtown North Platte.

Kelliher said the work of the preservation commission often goes unnoticed unless problems arise, noting that continued upkeep of historic buildings helps keep downtown an attractive place for businesses, restaurants, and visitors. He added that increased foot traffic downtown reflects the city’s growth, even if it sometimes means fewer available parking spaces.

Council members also approved a license agreement with NP Ice, allowing the seasonal outdoor ice rink to return to Centennial Park. Officials acknowledged challenges created by warmer winter weather and said the city hopes to work toward a future location that could offer overhead coverage to help preserve ice conditions.

In other business, the council approved a $16,000 professional services agreement with Miller &amp; Associates to update the city’s historic buildings survey. The update is required by the Nebraska State Historic Preservation Office and is typically completed about once every decade. The last update was completed in 2008.

The council also approved claims, completing the meeting’s remaining agenda items.

Outside of council action, Kelliher highlighted a recent statewide development involving North Platte leadership. Pat Keenan was elected board chair of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, marking the first time a North Platte resident has held the position. Kelliher said the appointment gives western Nebraska a stronger voice in statewide economic discussions.

City council meetings are open to the public and may also be viewed online through the city’s YouTube channel.

🎙️North Platte City Council Approves Board Appointments, Ice Rink Agreement, and Historic Survey Update

Visit North Platte has awarded more than $49,000 in promotional grant funding to support a variety of local events designed to attract visitors and strengthen the economic vitality of Lincoln County.

The Visit North Platte Board of Directors approved the funding during its January 28 meeting. In total, the board reviewed $69,565.59 in grant requests and awarded $49,019.59 to events and projects scheduled throughout 2026.

The Promotional Grant Awards program is intended to promote tourism by supporting events that draw visitors from outside the area. Grant funds, along with Visit North Platte’s marketing and operating expenses, are fully funded through lodging taxes collected from overnight stays at lodging properties within Lincoln County.

Grant recipients and awarded amounts include:

The North Platte Pickleball Club received $6,200 to host the PFA Round Up Pickleball Tournament presented by World of Pickleball. The tournament will return to Cody Park June 11–14 and is expected to attract competitors from surrounding communities while showcasing the city’s expanded pickleball facilities.

The D&amp;N Event Center was awarded $1,550 for the Breakthrough Basketball Camp, a three-day camp for students in grades three through eight, scheduled for May 26–28. Organizers expect the camp to draw participants from across southwest and central Nebraska, as well as neighboring states.

Platte Valley Dogs received $3,550 to host an American Stock Dog Registry Show July 10–12 at the D&amp;N Event Center. The event will be the only ASDR show held in Nebraska in 2026 and is expected to feature more than 150 herding dogs, along with vendors and free spectator access.

The North Platte Express Softball Team was awarded $9,050 for the Swinging Salute Fastpitch Softball Tournament, scheduled for May 22–24 at the Dowhower Softball Complex. The sanctioned USA Fastpitch tournament for ages 10–18 is expected to bring in more than 15 teams from surrounding communities and states.

North Platte Express also received $12,050 to host the Buffalo Bill Fastpitch Softball Tournament, set for June 12–14 at the Dowhower Softball Complex. The tournament is expected to draw approximately 30 teams and feature both pool play and bracket competition for athletes ages 10–18.

The Miss Nebraska Organization was awarded $6,200 to support the Miss Nebraska State Competition, which will take place June 1–6. The final two days of the event will be held at the North Platte High School Auditorium. This year marks the 41st consecutive year the competition has been hosted in North Platte.

The North Platte Trails Network received $319.59 to continue printing trail brochures that include maps and information used by both residents and visitors to explore the community’s trail system.

Operation Christmas Card, Inc. was awarded $10,100 to bring the Indian National Finals Rodeo to North Platte for the first time. The stand-alone rough stock event is scheduled for May 30 at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds and is expected to attract visitors from neighboring states while offering family-friendly entertainment.

The next round of Visit North Platte Promotional Grant funding is now open, with an application deadline of April 1 for events or projects occurring in July, August, and September of 2026. Applications will be reviewed during the board’s regular meeting on April 22.

Visit North Platte operates under an agreement with the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to administer the Nebraska Visitors Development Act. Officials say the support of local lodging partners makes it possible to fund events that attract visitors and contribute to the economic well-being of Lincoln County communities.

Visit North Platte Awards More Than $49,000 in Promotional Grants to Local Events

The Hot Sheets: February 5, 2026

North Platte, Ne - The North Platte Chamber and Development's Agribusiness Committee should be pleased with the opening day of the 35th Annual Buffalo Bill Farm and Ranch Expo. It was a full house as farmers, ranchers, business people and others swarmed the D and N Event Center beginning at 9am on Wednesday morning. The show continues until 5pm this evening and runs from 9am-4pm on Thursday.&nbsp;

The POST had coverage on it's Facebook Page all day, along with radio stations Z 93.5 Country &amp; Q Country Classics 107.3. Below are a few of those videos. Watch and Listen for more coverage on Thursday, presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/jthompsoninsurance">Justin Thompson Agency with American Family Insurance</a>.

Full House at 35th Annual Buffalo Bill Farm and Ranch Expo on Day One

North Platte, NE - Coffee lovers are invited to North Platte Coffee Week, presented by Visit North Platte from February 8th through February 14th, 2026. This community-wide celebration of local coffee shops and tea stops brings together the region’s vibrant caffeine culture with a fun and interactive passport program.

Coffee Week encourages passport holders to 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.

Once the passport is complete, participants should return the passport to the Visit North Platte office by 5:00pm on February 20th for a chance to win prizes during the prize drawing set for Monday, February 23rd. Grand prize includes a collection of gift cards from each participating location and Visit North Platte swag, with additional prize opportunities. There will be a total of thirteen prize drawings.

Passports for the 2026 Coffee Week are available at the Visit North Platte Office (101 Halligan Drive) or at any participating business during Coffee Week.

To make this week even more engaging, participants have the opportunity to earn extra entries into the prize drawings by visiting additional locations beyond the required seven and by sharing photos on Facebook, Instagram, or X with tags to Visit North Platte and the hashtag #VNPCoffeeWeek2026.

North Platte Coffee Week celebrates the local businesses that contribute so much to our community spirit by highlighting the area’s coffee scene and inviting both residents and visitors to savor each stop.

Locations taking part include: 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. Learn more at VisitNorthPlatte.com/north-platte-coffee-week/ .

Sip Your Way Through North Platte During North Platte Coffee Week February 8th-14th, 2026

The Hot Sheets: February 4, 2026

Wine Glass Ranch of Imperial, Nebraska, has been named the 2025 National Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) winner, receiving national recognition earlier this week during the Prime Cut Awards at CattleCon 2026.

The award is presented annually by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association to honor cattle producers who demonstrate exceptional environmental stewardship while maintaining productive and profitable beef operations.

Wine Glass Ranch was selected for its commitment to responsible land management, conservation practices, and long-term sustainability within the beef cattle industry. The operation was recognized alongside producers from across the country during the industry’s largest annual gathering.

CattleCon is hosted by NCBA and brings together cattle producers, industry leaders, policymakers, and allied organizations for education, policy discussions, and awards celebrating excellence in beef production. The Prime Cut Awards ceremony highlights individuals and operations making significant contributions to the industry.

The Environmental Stewardship Award Program was established in 1991 to showcase how cattle producers can be leaders in conservation. ESAP recipients are evaluated on a wide range of practices, including soil health, water conservation, wildlife habitat enhancement, and overall environmental responsibility, while still meeting the demands of modern beef production.

The program is generously sponsored by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Corteva Agriscience, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, reflecting a collaborative effort between producers, industry, and conservation partners.

News of the award was met with an outpouring of congratulations from fellow producers and community members, with many highlighting the honor as a testament to the ranch’s leadership and dedication to the future of agriculture.

As the national winner, Wine Glass Ranch now represents Nebraska and the beef industry as an example of how environmental stewardship and cattle production can go hand in hand.

Imperial Ranch Earns National Environmental Stewardship Award at CattleCon

Listen to the full interview with Amanda Connick on our Kubota Podcast

Group tourism continues to grow in North Platte and Lincoln County, thanks in large part to targeted efforts by Visit North Platte.

Amanda Connick focuses on attracting group tours for Visit North Platte, including how motorcoach tours, reunions, conventions, and senior travel groups are discovering what the area has to offer — often for the first time.

Connick said her primary role is bringing organized group travel to the region, particularly bus tours that may have previously passed through North Platte without stopping.

“Many of them had no idea what we had to offer,” Connick said. “It’s so much fun promoting what we have.”

Classic attractions and group-only experiences

Connick said groups are often familiar with North Platte’s staple attractions, including the Golden Spike Tower, Lincoln County Historical Museum, and Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park.

But she said Visit North Platte has also worked to create exclusive group-only experiences to give tour operators even more reasons to include the community in their itineraries.

Those experiences range from guided storytelling and themed meals to hands-on activities that highlight local history and culture.

One of the biggest surprises for visitors, Connick said, is learning that North Platte is home to the world’s largest railroad classification yard, operated by Union Pacific Railroad.

“Train people love it,” she said, adding that events like Rail Days and visits to the Golden Spike Tower draw a passionate following.

Connick said groups are often intrigued — and amused — by the idea of tanking on the North Platte River, an activity that has become increasingly popular with organized tours in recent years.

While many group travelers are seniors, she said the experience is accessible and adaptable for a wide range of ages and abilities.

Another standout experience is the North Platte World War II Canteen story, which Connick described as one of the community’s most powerful and meaningful attractions. Group tours can attend presentations, enjoy a themed canteen-style meal, and finish the experience with angel food cake, tying history and hospitality together.

Groups can also enjoy appearances by a Buffalo Bill Cody impersonator, horse-drawn wagon rides, wine tasting paired with stargazing, downtown walking tours highlighting historic buildings, and even ice cream for breakfast — a favorite tradition that is also offered exclusively to visiting bus groups.

“We have beef, we have birds, we have Buffalo Bill,” Connick said. “What more can you ask for?”

Connick emphasized that many of the experiences promoted to group tours are also available to local residents, encouraging the community to take part in the same activities visitors enjoy.

She said Visit North Platte has seen a healthy increase in both group travel and individual visitors in recent years, benefiting businesses across the community.

One of the newest tourism initiatives is North Platte Coffee Week, hosted for the first time by Visit North Platte.

The event runs Feb. 8–14 and features a Coffee Week Passport, encouraging residents and visitors to explore local coffee shops and tea locations.

Participants who purchase a beverage at seven different locations during the week can turn in their completed passport at Visit North Platte for prizes. Additional visits and social media participation can earn extra entries into prize drawings.

Connick said passports are available at the Visit North Platte office and at all participating locations.

Participating businesses include Seven Brew, All Sorts and Mug Coffee Shop, The Coffee Bin, Dunkin’, Einstein Bros. Bagels, The Espresso Shop, Lose Coffee, Mellow Grind, Scooter’s, The Fix, TJ Nutrition, and Voodoo Coffee.

Connick said information on Coffee Week, group tours, and other tourism initiatives can be found at VisitNorthPlatte.com.

🎙️Visit North Platte Highlights Group Tourism, Coffee Week, and Unique Experiences

Listen to the full interview with Kent Weems and Chris Bruns on our Kubota Podcast

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners used January to reorganize leadership roles, reassign committee responsibilities, and set the groundwork for a fiscally cautious year ahead, according to Board Chair Kent Weems and Vice Chair Chris Bruns.

Weems said the board’s annual January reorganization included electing leadership, reassigning committee seats, and reappointing department heads who report directly to the county board.

Weems explained that committee changes were intentional, aimed at cross-training commissioners and preparing for expected board transitions in coming years. Commissioner Hughley has indicated this may be his final term, prompting the board to bring newer members into long-standing committee roles, including Region 2, the local drug and rehabilitation facility, and law enforcement labor negotiations.

“If you don’t serve on those committees, you don’t really know what’s going on,” Weems said, noting that committee work makes up much of the board’s day-to-day responsibilities.

One of January’s most discussed actions was the board’s salary resolution, required by state statute every four years. Weems emphasized that the resolution does not impact current commissioners but instead sets compensation levels for officials who will serve beginning in January 2027.

The board voted to hold county board salaries flat, approving no cost-of-living increases for the next four-year cycle.

“These are tax dollars,” Weems said. “We’re trying to set a good example and be very frugal with limited funds.”

The delayed implementation of salary resolutions is designed to prevent officials from voting themselves immediate raises and to provide transparency for voters ahead of elections.

Vice Chair Chris Bruns said the board unanimously reappointed all four department heads who report directly to the county board:

Bruns said each department has demonstrated strong fiscal responsibility while managing limited resources.

“They do a lot with a little,” Bruns said. “The board has full confidence in them moving forward.”

January also marked preparation for the county’s annual “one and six” road plan, which outlines short-term and long-term infrastructure priorities. Lincoln County maintains more than 1,600 miles of county roads across 72 townships, making it one of Nebraska’s largest counties by land area.

Weems said the plan helps prioritize projects when funding is limited, noting that the county may have only a fraction of the dollars needed to address all infrastructure needs in a given year.

Commissioners also discussed courthouse and jail security, though details remain limited for safety reasons. Bruns said the county regularly evaluates both physical security and cybersecurity risks, including attempted cyber intrusions.

The board recently worked with Homeland Security specialists to stress-test systems and identify vulnerabilities, developing a strategic plan to address security concerns while remaining fiscally responsible.

Sheriff’s Office Equipment and Budget Oversight

The board approved vehicle purchases for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office that were already included in the budget. Bruns said Sheriff Kramer has implemented a long-term vehicle replacement plan to maximize value for taxpayers, recently shifting from pickup trucks to SUVs due to rising vehicle costs.

Weems added that department heads are regularly challenged to justify expenditures, noting the board closely scrutinizes major purchases such as motor graders and heavy equipment.

Commissioners emphasized that property tax is the county’s primary revenue source, unlike cities that can rely on sales tax. Weems said the board remains sensitive to the financial pressures facing both agricultural producers and homeowners.

“We’re all paying property tax,” Weems said. “We know how tight things are.”

Looking ahead, the board is nearing completion of a multi-year comprehensive plan and zoning regulation rewrite, last updated in 2012.

Draft documents are available on the county website under the Planning and Zoning tab. Weems said the plan will guide growth decisions for the next decade and is designed to be legally defensible if challenged.

🎙️Lincoln County Commissioners Reorganize, Flatline Salaries, Set Priorities for 2026

Listen to the full interview with Bob Lantis on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb. - With 133 days to go until NebraskaLand Days returns to North Platte, Executive Director Bob Lantis says planning is already in high gear — starting with the annual Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash fundraiser later this month.

The Bash is set for Friday, Feb. 28 at the D&amp;N Event Center.

This year’s Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash will feature a “Talladega Nights” NASCAR theme, with Buffalo Bill Cody expected to make an appearance in a NASCAR-style outfit as part of the celebration.

Lantis said the bash is held in recognition of Buffalo Bill’s birthday — Feb. 26 — and is designed as both a community event and a major fundraiser.

“It helps raise money for NebraskaLand Days and facility improvements,” Lantis said, adding that the organization is working toward “big projects” in the future and the bash is one way to build support.

What to expect: auctions, live music, and a silent auction

Lantis said the evening will begin with doors opening at 6 p.m., followed by a brief program at approximately 7 p.m. The event then moves into a live auction, with roughly 14 to 15 major items expected.

Items mentioned during the interview included golf trips, utility trailers, football ticket packages, and more. After the live auction, the venue will be adjusted for entertainment.

Live music will follow from the Dylan Bloom Band, with hospitality areas opening during the concert portion of the night. A silent auction will also be available, remaining open until around 10 p.m.

The Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash is a ticketed, 21-and-over event, with tickets set at $60. Lantis said the ticket includes admission, a meal, and drink tickets, plus access to complimentary hospitality service once booths open, along with a cash bar option.

He also hinted the organization may roll out additional promotions or announcements ahead of the bash, adding organizers anticipate a strong crowd this year.

NebraskaLand Days 2026: rodeo and concert lineup

Looking ahead to June, Lantis said the 62nd annual NebraskaLand Days will include four nights of PRCA rodeo and two nights of country music, featuring Grammy Award-winning talent.

He highlighted **Treaty Oak Revival performing on Friday, June 26, and Zach Top on Saturday, June 27, noting Top recently earned a Grammy.

Reminder: buy tickets directly from the official site

Lantis urged fans to purchase event tickets through the official NebraskaLandDays.com website or directly through the NebraskaLand Days office, warning that secondary ticket sellers can mean higher prices and possible entry issues at the gate.

“It happens every year,” he said, adding that going through the official site is the best way to ensure tickets are valid and trouble-free.

With the February fundraiser approaching and summer events already taking shape, Lantis said the organization is excited to welcome the community out to support NebraskaLand Days — and kick off the countdown to June.

🎙️NebraskaLand Days Countdown Begins and Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash 

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, to discuss a historic win for the Women's team as they toppled Western Nebraska Community College 63-60, their first win against the Cougars since the 1984-1985 season.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #11 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

Listen to the full interview with Joe Richeson on our Kubota Podcast

Central Nebraska community partners are coming together to host a free Ag Health and Safety Event, Cultivating Health, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, in Gothenburg.

The event will be held at the Dayspring Bank Event Center and is designed to take a broad look at the health, safety, and day-to-day challenges involved in agriculture and rural life.

Joe Richeson, one of the organizers, said the event goes beyond traditional safety training.

“This isn’t hard-hat safety or excavation safety,” Richeson said. “It’s more of a top-down approach to what it takes to run an ag operation, whether you’re a producer, farmer, rancher, or involved in ag in some other way.”

Sessions throughout the day will cover a wide range of topics, including mental health, distracted driving, water quality and quantity, nitrates in drinking water, occupational safety, and nutrition for long workdays in the field.

Presenters include the Nebraska Trucking Association, members of the governor’s groundwater task force, Nebraska Medicine, and an occupational therapist focusing on safe movement and body mechanics. A session on food preparation will also address how to safely prepare energy-rich meals for long days during planting, harvesting, or livestock work.

Richeson said the event is open to anyone, not just those directly involved in agriculture.

“You don’t have to be ag-related to attend,” he said. “Ag touches everyone’s life every day, whether you realize it or not.”

Spouses and family members are encouraged to attend, particularly for the mental health session, which focuses on coping with the stresses unique to the agricultural industry, including markets, employees, and daily uncertainty.

The event begins at 10:30 a.m. Exhibit booths will be set up by noon and remain open until 4 p.m., with sessions concluding at 4 p.m. A business-after-hours event will follow from 4 to 7 p.m.

Attendees may come and go throughout the day and are not required to stay for all sessions. A free lunch will be provided, and local FFA members will assist during the event.

Health screenings will also be available through Gothenburg Health, with options for multiple screenings, including full blood work for those who choose to fast.

Registration is not required but is encouraged. Information is available on the Gothenburg Health Facebook page, the Gothenburg Irrigation Facebook page, or by contacting Richeson directly at 308-529-1181.

The free event is open to the public and will take place at the Dayspring Bank Event Center in Gothenburg on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

🎙️Central Nebraska Partners to Host Free Ag Health and Safety Event in Gothenburg

Listen to the full interview with Megan Doughty on our Kubota Podcast

NORTH PLATTE — The Miss Nebraska Organization will return to North Platte in early February for its annual Crowns and Gowns weekend, bringing pageant events, leadership workshops and a former Miss America to the community.

Crowns and Gowns is scheduled for Feb. 6–8 and serves as the final local competition opportunity for contestants before the Miss Nebraska state pageant in June. Events are centered around professional development for young women ages 14 to 27, as well as public activities open to the community.

This year’s weekend will feature Heather French Henry, Miss America 2000, who will serve as a keynote guest throughout the weekend. French Henry will emcee the local Miss Nebraska competition on Friday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. at Mid-Plains Community College. Doors are expected to open at 6:30 p.m., with tickets available at the door.

She will also headline a Women’s Empowerment Luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at North 40 Chophouse. Tickets for the luncheon are available online at MissNebraska.org.

Megan Doughty, executive director of the Miss Nebraska Organization, said Crowns and Gowns is designed to help young women grow far beyond the stage.

“The word ‘pageant’ is really a misnomer anymore,” Doughty said. “It’s about developing personal passions, advocacy and life skills that carry through long after competition.”

Throughout the weekend, delegates will participate in workshops focused on interview skills, public speaking, branding, advocacy development and community engagement. Professional hair and makeup services, headshot photography and private gown appointments will also be offered.

The local competition includes personal interviews with judges, on-stage questions, fitness wear, evening gown and talent segments. Scholarships are awarded based on placement and special awards.

According to Doughty, the Miss Nebraska Organization awards more than $40,000 annually in cash scholarships, along with access to more than $1 million in tuition scholarships through partnerships with Nebraska colleges and universities.

The current titleholders include Miss Nebraska’s Teen Gabriella Swift of North Platte and Miss Nebraska 2025 Mackenzie Gregory of Scottsbluff.

Doughty said community support has helped make North Platte a key location for pageant events statewide.

“We’re bringing young women from across Nebraska to experience our community,” she said. “It’s about showcasing North Platte while helping these delegates realize their potential.”

More information, including luncheon tickets and registration details for prospective contestants, is available at MissNebraska.org.

🎙️Crowns and Gowns Weekend Brings Miss America 2000, Workshops to North Platte

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, to discuss a difficult away weekend to Lamar, where the Knights fell 63-51.&nbsp;

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #10 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

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 discuss a successful three-game homestand against Region 9 South opponents.&nbsp;

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #13 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

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

North Platte, Neb. — The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met Wednesday evening at North Platte Community College’s North Campus to start the 2026 year with officer elections, financial approvals, and updates on campus projects.

Cindy Duncan of Broken Bow was elected board chair, Kim Korgan of McCook as vice chair, Kurt Crowley of Broken Bow as secretary treasurer, and Matt Rose of McCook as assistant secretary treasurer. Kent Miller of North Platte and Tyler Pribbeno of Imperial will continue representing the college at the Nebraska Community College Association. “They all do a great job in their roles,” said MCC President Ryan Purdy. “Kent and Tyler have a little more work outside of the regular board meetings as they represent Mid-Plains on a state level.”

The board approved consent items, including minutes from December board meetings and the December financial report. Bills for the month totaled $2.54 million, slightly higher than usual due to pay app requests. “Outside of that, it would have been pretty similar to what we would expect for a normal month,” Purdy said.

Two campus projects were also approved. The Barrel Vault Roof at the Walsh-Brady Building in McCook, damaged by last summer’s hailstorm, will be replaced by Weathercraft. Purdy described the temporary repairs as “lots of duct tape looking patches all over the thing,” and added, “It is a translucent panel, so it’s right over the stairwell when you walk in the building. Got to get that fixed.”

The board also approved new security camera software to connect and manage cameras across all campuses, including North Platte, McCook, Valentine, Ogallala, Imperial, and Broken Bow. “The last year has been a struggle sometimes being able to get the footage that we needed,” Purdy said. “This system will work with all the existing cameras, which is a huge benefit when you look at the cost of other systems.”

The meeting also highlighted faculty and student achievements. Dr. Courtney Johnston recently earned her PhD in psychology, and early entry programs continue to grow, increasing more than 20% over previous years. “It’s about the people,” Purdy said. “We’re here to educate students—they’re not buying widgets, they’re buying knowledge.”

Looking ahead, the next board meeting is scheduled for February 18, beginning with a ribbon cutting for the new Electrical Technology Building at 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

Additionally, the MCC Theater Department, in collaboration with the North Platte Community Playhouse, will present Arkansas Bear February 2 at 10 a.m. and February 3 at 7 p.m. at the McDonald-Belton Theater on the South Campus. Admission is free. Students are also encouraged to apply for institutional scholarships by March 1.

Public Relations and Marketing Director Daniel Stinman added, “That’s a great way for students to get a head start on their education, save some money, and pursue their passions right here at Mid-Plains.”

🎙️Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors Kicks Off 2026 with Elections and Campus Updates

Kearney, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person after finding 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop on I-80.

Tuesday, at approximately 10:30 a.m., a trooper saw a Toyota Camry speeding at over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

A search of the vehicle revealed 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine hidden inside the body of the car. The driver, George Watson, 50, of Poplar Grove, Illinois, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to deliver, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers Find Methamphetamine in I-80 Traffic Stop

Reward increased in search for 'Today' show host's missing mother

Carbon monoxide is often called a silent killer — and for good reason. The colorless, odorless gas cannot be seen or smelled, yet exposure can be deadly. The good news: carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable.

Each year in the United States, carbon monoxide poisoning sends tens of thousands of people to emergency rooms and claims hundreds of lives. Older adults, especially those age 65 and over, face the highest risk of serious illness or death from exposure.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is frequently mistaken for the flu, especially in its early stages. Symptoms may include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness or fatigue, and confusion. Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Because symptoms can come on gradually, many people don’t realize they’re in danger until it’s too late.

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels do not burn completely. Common household and everyday sources include furnaces, fireplaces and space heaters, water heaters, gas clothes dryers, and stoves. Grills, generators, power tools, and vehicles that burn fossil fuels can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, especially when used improperly or in enclosed spaces.

If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, get to fresh air immediately. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care right away.

Poison Center healthcare professionals are available around the clock to help manage carbon monoxide exposures and determine whether emergency services are needed.

Simple precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of exposure. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and replace batteries every six months. Learn to recognize early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and have all fuel-burning appliances inspected and maintained regularly.

Make sure heaters and appliances are properly vented to the outside. Never use charcoal grills, hibachis, or generators indoors. Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home. Never leave a vehicle running in an attached garage — even with the garage door open — and avoid sitting in a running vehicle if snow or mud is blocking the exhaust pipe. Generators should always be run outdoors and far away from windows and doors.

The Nebraska Poison Center provides education, safety tips, and expert guidance on carbon monoxide exposure and poison prevention.

When you call 1-800-222-1222, you’ll be connected immediately with a registered nurse or pharmacist — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Awareness saves lives.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Know the Danger, Prevent the Risk

DAMASCUS – U.S. forces conducted five strikes against multiple ISIS targets across Syria, Jan. 27 – Feb. 2, as partner forces continue to apply military pressure to ensure the enduring defeat of the terrorist network, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

CENTCOM forces located and destroyed an ISIS communication site, critical logistics node, and weapons storage facilities with 50 precision munitions delivered by fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft.

“Striking these targets demonstrates our continued focus and resolve for preventing an ISIS resurgence in Syria,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Operating in coordination with coalition and partner forces to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS makes America, the region and the world safer.”

U.S. and partner forces launched Operation Hawkeye Strike in response to a Dec. 13 attack on U.S. and Syrian forces in Palmyra. The ISIS ambush resulted in the death of two U.S. service members and an American interpreter.

After nearly two months of targeted operations, more than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured. CENTCOM forces killed Bilal Hasan al-Jasim during a deliberate strike in northwest Syria on Jan. 16. The terrorist leader was directly connected with the ISIS gunman responsible for the Dec. 13 attack.

U.S. forces strike more ISIS targets in Syria

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — A federal judge this week closed the lawsuit Planned Parenthood filed last summer after Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law blocked Medicaid patients from visiting its clinics for any health care appointments for one year.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood filed notice with the court Friday that it had dismissed “without prejudice all claims against” the Trump administration in the case. Massachusetts District Court Judge Indira Talwani issued an electronic order Monday closing the case “Pursuant to Plaintiffs’ Notice of Voluntary Dismissal without Prejudice.”

The law prevents people on Medicaid from being seen at Planned Parenthood facilities through early July, when the one-year period would expire.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America President and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson wrote in a statement released last week that President Donald Trump “and his allies in Congress have weaponized the federal government to target Planned Parenthood at the expense of patients —&nbsp; stripping people of the care they rely on.&nbsp;

“Through every attack, Planned Parenthood has never lost sight of its focus: ensuring patients can get the care they need from the provider they trust. That will never change. Care continues, as does our commitment to fighting for everyone’s freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies, lives, and futures.”

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