Listen to the full interview on our Kubota Podcast

Rascal Martinez will take the stage Friday night at the Prairie Arts Event Center for a special Friday the 13th performance beginning at 7 p.m.

Martinez, originally from southern Nebraska, has toured across the United States for more than 15 years. He performs a mix of Americana originals along with 1950s and 1960s covers, playing venues that range from high schools to senior centers, weddings and corporate events.

Friday’s show will feature Martinez alongside Brian Wheeler on keys for what he describes as a relaxed, intimate evening of music. The concert will include original songs, familiar favorites and even the chance for audience requests. Martinez is also preparing to release new music later this month.

General admission tickets are $20. A $65 VIP package includes two tickets, a bottle of wine and a light dessert for two, making it a fitting option ahead of Valentine’s Day weekend.

Tickets must be purchased in advance at prair ieartscenter.org under the events tab. Merchandise will also be available at the show.

Rascal Martinez to Perform Friday Night at Prairie Arts Event Center

The West Central District Health Department is recognizing International Children’s Mental Health Week, observed Feb. 9–15, by reminding families that free and confidential mental health support is available.

Health officials say mental health is a key part of a child’s overall health. It affects how children think, feel, act, learn and build relationships. When children feel safe and supported, they are more likely to do well in school and in daily life.

“Protecting mental wellbeing is just as important as preventing illness,” said Meghan Trevino, executive director of the West Central District Health Department. “International Children’s Mental Health Week is a great reminder that caring for our mental health is something we can all do, and support is available whenever it’s needed.”

Children and teens can face stress from school, friendships, bullying, social pressure, family changes and other life events. While these challenges are common, early support can make a big difference. Having access to reliable information and healthy coping tools can help young people build resilience and support long-term wellbeing.

To help meet this need, the health department offers CredibleMind, a free and confidential online resource available 24 hours a day at wcdhd.crediblemind.com. The website provides trusted, easy-to-understand information and tools to support mental health. Users can learn ways to manage stress and anxiety, find information about depression, grief and sleep, take private self-check assessments, watch short videos, read expert-reviewed articles and build healthy coping skills. The platform is free to use and completely private.

The department was recently honored with a national Promote Flourishing Award for its efforts to strengthen mental wellbeing and expand access to helpful resources across the region.

Health officials say seeking help is a sign of strength. Talking openly about mental health can reduce stigma and remind young people that it is okay to ask for support.

During International Children’s Mental Health Week, the department encourages families to check in with children regularly, create space for open conversations, listen without judgment, remind young people they are valued and reach out for help when needed.

More information and free mental health resources are available at wcdhd.crediblemind.com or wcdhd.org.

WCDHD Promotes Free Mental Health Resources During Children’s Mental Health Week

The water in Cody Park will be shut off Wednesday, February 18, to allow for maintenance on the water system. During this time, the park restrooms will be closed. The projected is expected to take only one day.

The city apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

For questions, please contact the City of North Platte Parks Department at 308‑535‑6700.

City of North Platte: Temporary Water Shut-Off at Cody Park

The North Platte Natural Resources District held its annual Ag Symposium on Tuesday, February 10th, at the Gering Civic Center. During the event, the District presented the third annual Outstanding Conservation Award to Tom Case.

The award recognizes individuals or businesses that demonstrate strong stewardship of natural resources and a commitment to long‑term sustainability. Tom Case was selected for his decades of practical, hands‑on work that has directly supported conservation efforts in the City of Minatare and the surrounding area.

Tom recently retired as the Utility Supervisor and Emergency Manager for the City of Minatare, a role he began in 1986. Throughout his career, he worked closely with the NRD on a variety of conservation‑related projects and infrastructure improvements. Whether the task involved water system upgrades, tree management, or other community needs, Tom consistently approached each project with a willingness to collaborate and offer straightforward, constructive input.

His work has had a lasting impact on the community. Tom played a key role in removing hazardous and dying trees and helped plant hundreds more over the years, contributing to both public safety and long‑term environmental health. His involvement with the Volunteer Fire Department and his steady commitment to the city reflect a career built on reliability and service.

The North Platte Natural Resources District is pleased to recognize Tom Case for his long‑standing dedication and meaningful contributions to conservation in the Panhandle of Nebraska.

Tom Case Awarded Conservation Award at North Platte Natural Resources District Ag Symposium

Press Release By Deputy Chief Kendall Allison

On 02-10-26, at around 8:00 A.M., a North Platte PD officer was sent to a business located in the 3200 block of Detco Circle on the report of a possible burglary. Approximately $1500 in currency and coin was missing from the business. 

Business security footage was reviewed, and a possible suspect was identified. On 02-10-26 at around 2:00 P.M., a search warrant was served at a residence located in the 900 block of E. 12th Street. Items that were removed from the business on 02-10-26, were located inside the residence. 

Two adult females were arrested. Mary L. Johnson age 46 was arrested for Burglary, a Class IIA Felony. Tonya A. Barnett age 36 was arrested for Aiding and Abetting, a Class IIA Felony. Both subjects were incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

Two North Platte Women Arrested After $1,500 Burglary on Detco Circle

The Hot Sheets: February 12, 2026

The Hot Sheets: February 11, 2026

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

The Todd Becker Foundation of Kearney, NE is hosting a “STINT Takeover Night” in North Platte, NE on February 25, 2026. This free event will be held at the North Platte Berean Church at 6:00 PM. According to Barna Research, 70% of high school youth walk away from church after graduation. This event is intended to awaken the 70% of youth group students who are projected to leave the church. 

This night will challenge and encourage students to take their faith seriously. During this evening, students will experience a time of worship, testimonies, and a powerful message from God’s word. Come join them on February 25th for a life-changing night!

About the STINT Internship: STINT is the Todd Becker Foundation’s internship program, which prepares and equips recently graduated high schoolers to stand firm in their faith after they leave high school. The STINT Program is a cost-free, 9-month internship that gives students real-world, front-line ministry experience that significantly impacts their spiritual growth and maturity as a Christian.

Todd Becker Foundation Brings STINT Takeover Night to North Platte

North Platte Public Schools is excited to announce Mr. Kyle Drake as our next Athletic Director, beginning July 1, 2026!

Kyle earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and later returned to UNK to complete his master’s degree in PreK–12 School Principalship in 2017. Kyle has spent the past three years as a 9–12 science teacher and coach at North Platte High School. Prior to that, he served as principal at Burwell Public Schools. He also brings classroom teaching experience, including sixth-grade science and reading at Kearney Public Schools and eighth-grade science at North Platte Public Schools. Kyle’s wife, Emily, is also an educator, and they are the proud parents of four children: Nora, Crew, Jett, and Mack.&nbsp;

Kyle is honored to serve North Platte Public Schools as Activities Director and looks forward to working with coaches, sponsors, families, and students to create opportunities for involvement, leadership, and pride in our schools and community.

Breaking - NPPS announces Kyle Drake as NPHS activities director

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — NebraskaLand Bank employees donated $18,900 to area nonprofit organizations through the bank’s annual “My Fair Share” program, an employee-driven charitable initiative that has supported communities since 2004.

The program allows employees to voluntarily contribute a portion of their paychecks to nonprofit organizations serving the communities where the bank operates. In 2025, funds raised will be distributed to eight organizations: Bridge of Hope, Make-A-Wish Nebraska, the Autism Society of Nebraska, McKenna’s Rae of Hope, Kearney Animal Shelter, Kearney Area Community Foundation, Hospice of Sweetwater County, and Sweetwater Family Resource Center.

NebraskaLand Bank will recognize this year’s recipients during a breakfast and check presentation at its North Platte, Kearney, and Rock Springs locations. The North Platte presentation is scheduled for February 13 at 8:30 a.m. at NebraskaLand Bank, 1400 South Dewey Street, in the main lobby on the first floor.

The “My Fair Share” program reflects the bank’s long-standing culture of community involvement, with employees nominating organizations and committing financial support throughout the year.

“For the past 22 years, our employees have stepped up and contributed a portion of their own funds to worthy charitable organizations in the communities where we are located, and I am incredibly proud of each person who has made this program a success. In 2025, the My Fair Share Campaign collected more than $18,900 for causes in North Platte, Kearney and Rock Springs, Wyoming. Community-minded isn’t just a slogan—it’s our culture. Congratulations to this year’s recipients and to the employees who made this possible,” said Mike Jacobson, President and CEO of NebraskaLand Bank.

Since the program began, NebraskaLand Bank employees have donated approximately $250,000 to nonprofit organizations.

More information about the My Fair Share program is available at NebraskaLandBank.com.

NebraskaLand Bank Employees Donate Nearly $19,000 Through “My Fair Share” Program

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

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

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

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 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 

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

The House of Representatives passed the election integrity overhaul bill on Wednesday aimed at keeping non-citizens from voting in U.S. federal elections.

The bill passed with a mostly party-line vote, 218-213. All three GOP Members of the Nebraska House delegation voted with the majority. Only one Democrat, Rep. Henry Cuellar, of Texas voted for the bill.

Nebraska Lawmakers help House pass proof-of-citizenship requirement for voters

WASHINGTON— Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Oversight Committee Wednesday to answer questions about the release of the Epstein files and other controversies.

🎥Epstein files: Bondi's Oversight hearing erupts into shouting match

Lincoln, Neb.&nbsp; —&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol encourages parents to get engaged in their kids’ online activity today on Safer Internet Day.

Safer Internet Day is a worldwide initiative to deliver tips and programs to build safe online practices. The effort began in 2004 and includes information for teachers, schools, and families on how to teach safe internet usage for kids.

“It’s incredibly important for parents to stay involved in their kids’ online presence,” said Sgt. Peter Rutherford, Commander of the Nebraska Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. “Keeping the lines of communication open between parents and kids about how to stay safe online can be the determining factor in preventing victimization. Be aware that there are online predators, but there are also tactics you can use to keep your kids safe.”

This year’s Safer Internet Day features several topics, primarily focused on discussions and training related to AI. NSP encourages all internet users to keep safety in mind as they conduct their online activity. Resources are available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://safer.connectsafely.org/" target="_blank">Safer Internet Day</a>&nbsp;website.

NSP Encourages Important Conversations on Safer Internet Day

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — CoreCivic argued Tuesday for the right to begin holding prisoners in its closed Leavenworth facility, even as the company is working through a local permit process that could make the court case irrelevant.

CoreCivic challenged an injunction in the Kansas Court of Appeals that was made last year by the Leavenworth County District Court. The injunction kept the private prison from taking detainees from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement while CoreCivic and the City of Leavenworth fought in court about reopening the company’s prison facility.

Complicating the issue, the two are now working through the city’s planning process as CoreCivic has applied for a special use permit that would allow it to reopen.&nbsp;

“This is a difficult case because it feels like there are all of these slippery parts that are not part of the matter before us,” said Chief Judge Sarah Warner. “There’s a separate lawsuit. There are ongoing administrative proceedings.”&nbsp;

CoreCivic operated a private prison in Leavenworth until 2021 when it lost a contract with the U.S. Department of Justice. In 2025, the company announced it planned to reopen the prison as the Midwest Regional Detention Center and house ICE detainees.&nbsp;

The city required CoreCivic to obtain a special use permit through its planning and zoning process before reopening, which is where the court cases originated last year. The two entities have been fighting it out in court, with CoreCivic insisting it did not need a permit.&nbsp;

After losses in Kansas district court, CoreCivic bowed to the city’s demands and began the process of obtaining the permit. Last week, the city’s planning commission&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/03/corecivic-receives-leavenworth-planning-commission-approval-in-contentious-meeting/" target="_blank">approved the permit</a>&nbsp;and sent it to the city commission for a final determination.&nbsp;

Although one court case between the two ended and one remains open but inactive, the Nashville-based private prison company continued its appeal Tuesday to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/06/04/leavenworth-wins-restraining-order-barring-corecivic-from-taking-ice-detainees/" target="_blank">argue the injunction prohibiting</a>&nbsp;it from taking prisoners immediately should be reversed.

Sara Fevurly, an attorney for CoreCivic, said the district court didn’t properly grant the injunction, and even if the decision were rendered moot after the permit was approved, the company may be entitled to fees and damages associated with an improper temporary injunction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the short hearing focused on legal technicalities of the case, both sides argued about the definition of “irreparable harm” and whether CoreCivic abandoned use of its property because it did not house prisoners there for about three years.&nbsp;

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