HERSHEY, Neb. — Hershey Public Schools has announced that Mr. Jordan Cudney has been selected to serve as the next 9–12 principal at Waverly Public Schools beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.

District officials said Cudney has made a lasting impact during his time at Hershey, working to build strong relationships with students, staff and families while supporting both academic programs and extracurricular activities.

School leaders noted that Cudney consistently kept students at the center of his decisions and took pride in celebrating Panther achievements in the classroom and in competition. His leadership helped strengthen school culture and promote student success across grade levels.

Hershey Public Schools expressed appreciation for the time and dedication Cudney has given to the district and extended congratulations on his professional advancement.

Cudney will begin his new role at Waverly Public Schools with the start of the 2026–2027 academic year.

Hershey's Cudney Named Next 9–12 Principal at Waverly Public Schools

March 1 is the priority deadline to turn in a scholarship application for the 2026-27 school year at Mid-Plains Community College. More than $1,000,000 worth of scholarships are up for grabs.

The scholarships, which include academic and program-specific awards, are designed to make higher education more affordable and accessible for students across the college’s service area.

Current and prospective students can apply online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mpcc.awardspring.com/">https://mpcc.awardspring.com/</a>. Because the scholarship platform is connected to MPCC’s system, students must first complete the admissions application to receive their network login credentials.

MPCC Director of Financial Aid Erinn Brown said the online portal simplifies what can often feel like an overwhelming process.

“Once students log in, they can see the scholarships they qualify for and track their progress all in one place,” Brown said. “If they receive an award, they’ll be notified through the system and can log in to accept or decline it.”

For more information about MPCC scholarships or the application process, contact the financial aid team at (308) 221-6444 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:finaid@mpcc.edu">finaid@mpcc.edu</a>.

March 1 is priority deadline for MPCC scholarships

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

Mid-Plains Community College’s music department will host its first concert of the spring semester March 3.

The event is free and open to the public. It will begin at 7 p.m. in the McDonald-Belton Theater on the NPCC South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd., in North Platte.

Music centered on the theme of hope and will fill the evening, featuring performances by the college’s jazz band, the Jazzy Knights, along with the college’s choirs, the Knightly Singers and the Knightingales.

In addition, members of the NAfME student music club will have an interactive activity for the audience during the set change.

MPCC Announces Spring Concert March 3

The Hot Sheets: February 17, 2026

Big Springs, Neb. — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a crash that resulted in a fatality in western Nebraska. The vehicle had previously fled attempted traffic stops.

Just after 12:00 a.m. MT Monday, NSP received information about a vehicle that had fled a pursuit with deputies in central Nebraska several hours earlier. The vehicle, a Lexus GS, was believed to be in western Nebraska. At approximately 12:13 a.m., a trooper saw the Lexus traveling 95 miles per hour on I-80 near Big Springs at mile marker 111. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield and fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The trooper pursued for approximately five minutes before discontinuing the pursuit as the suspect vehicle exited I-80 and appeared headed into Colorado on I-76. The Lexus was traveling more than 140 miles per hour.

Several minutes later, the trooper saw what appeared to be a vehicle crash just off I-80 near mile marker 102. The trooper found the Lexus approximately 75 yards away from I-80 in a field and found the driver deceased. The driver had been ejected from the vehicle.

Additional units were called to assist. The Deuel County Sheriff’s Office and EMS also responded to the scene. The crash remains under investigation. Authorities are attempting to make family notification.

NSP Investigating Crash After Discontinued Pursuit

The North Platte City Council will meet Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall. The meeting will also be streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel at northplattene.gov/watch.

The meeting will begin with an invocation by Isaiah Fox of Bethel Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. A copy of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act will be posted in the council chambers.

Under the consent agenda, council members will consider approval of minutes from the Feb. 3 meeting and place the December 2025 treasurer’s report on file. The council is also scheduled to consider an application from TBS Liquors LLC, doing business as The Bottle Shop, for a special designated license March 5 from 4 to 8 p.m. at FNBO-North Platte, 201 N. Dewey St., for a Business After Hours event.

Council members will also consider approving the purchase of one Cimline M2DH crack seal kettle from Rose Equipment for the Street Department in the amount of $68,941 and authorize the mayor to sign necessary documents.

During the regular agenda, the council will hold a public hearing on the proposed agreement for the sale of real estate at 3111 W. 19th St. to Michell McLaughlin. The council will also consider approval of claims.

A closed session may be held, if necessary, to discuss personnel matters, real estate transactions or potential litigation in order to protect the public interest.

The meeting will conclude with informational items from the mayor, council members, city administrator and city attorney.

North Platte City Council to Consider Real Estate Sale, Street Equipment Purchase and Liquor License

The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors will meet Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at North Platte Community College’s North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive in North Platte.

Board members will begin with recognitions for the NPCC Golf Team and the North Platte Community College Foundation Board.

An open forum will follow, allowing students, faculty, staff, members of the public and board members to address the board. Under Nebraska Public Meetings Law, the board will not take immediate action on items raised during open forum unless they are already listed on the agenda.

Consent items include approval of minutes from the Jan. 21 board work session and regular meeting, the January financial report and the annual affirmation of policies. The board will also consider the resignation of English faculty member Mary Wilson, effective May 13.

Among actions required by law, the board will consider approval of January bills totaling $1,171,851.15. Board members who received reimbursements during the month will abstain from voting on their individual reimbursement items.

The board is also scheduled to consider a bid from Dana F. Cole and Company for the college’s yearly financial, uniform guidance and FTE/REU audits for fiscal years ending 2026 through 2028.

In addition, governors will review a bid for first floor window replacements at McMillen Hall.

Several 2026 meeting schedule changes are also up for consideration. Those include holding the May 20 meeting at the Imperial Community Campus, canceling the June meeting and moving the Sept. 16 meeting to Sept. 23.

Two major financial decisions are also on the agenda. The board will consider recommendations for 2026-27 tuition and fees, along with housing and meal rates for the same academic year.

The meeting will conclude with a president and cabinet report before adjournment.

MPCC Board to Decide on 2026-27 Tuition, Housing Rates and McMillen Hall Window Bid

The Hot Sheets: February 16, 2026

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners will meet Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 9 a.m. at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room. The meeting will also be available online through the county’s YouTube channel.

Commissioners will open the meeting with prayer before considering approval of the minutes from their Feb. 9 meeting. A public comment period will follow.

Board members will review claims and the treasurer’s receipts. They will also receive and order fee reports submitted by the Register of Deeds and the Lincoln County Sheriff.

At 9:15 a.m., the board will recess and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization. During that meeting, members will consider approval of the Feb. 9 Board of Equalization minutes and hold a public comment period. They will also review certificates of correction and refund submitted by the county assessor.

After adjourning or recessing as the Board of Equalization, commissioners will reconvene as the Board of Commissioners.

At 9:30 a.m., a public hearing is scheduled on the potential vacation of Vieyra Avenue located in Lot 12 of the Cody Land and Cattle Subdivision in Section 29, Township 14 North, Range 30 West of the 6th P.M. Commissioners will consider possible action following the hearing.

At 9:45 a.m., the board will discuss and consider Sandhills RC&amp;D membership. At 9:55 a.m., commissioners will discuss interlocal agreements. At 10:05 a.m., the board will hold a discussion on the county budget process, including analysis within individual departments.

The agenda also notes the board may enter closed session if necessary to discuss pending or imminent litigation, real estate purchases, security matters or job performance evaluations to prevent needless injury to a person’s reputation.

Commissioners will also hear concerns from elected officials, department heads or their representatives and receive committee reports before adjournment.

Lincoln County Commissioners to Hold Public Hearing on Road Vacation, Discuss Budget Process Tuesday

The Hot Sheets: February 15, 2026

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

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

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

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

&nbsp;WASHINGTON —Officers arrested a person with a gun near the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Tuesday afternoon, according to an online statement from the U.S. Capitol Police.

Maryland Avenue was temporarily closed between First and Third Streets, SW, while officers investigated

At this time, there does not appear to be any other suspects or ongoing threat. Out of an abundance of caution, Capitol police asked the public to stay away from the area while they investigate and collect evidence.&nbsp;

🎥Man with loaded shotgun arrested after running toward the US Capitol

North Platte, Neb. –– Nebraska farmers and ranchers are invited to explore new ways to diversify their operations at Opening the Gate: Agri-Tourism Opportunities for Nebraska Farms and Ranches on March 12 from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Rowe Sanctuary.

Hosted by Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Women in Agriculture in partnership with the Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, this hands-on workshop will highlight how Nebraska’s working lands can create additional revenue streams through agri-tourism while preserving agricultural heritage and natural resources.

Participants will hear from local experts about business planning, marketing, liability considerations, and practical steps for developing successful agri-tourism ventures. The program will also feature a conservation-focused tour and guided crane viewing experience along the Platte River at sunset, offering attendees firsthand insight into how conservation and tourism can work hand-in-hand.

“Nebraska farms and ranches have unique stories and landscapes that attract visitors from across the country,” organizers said. “This workshop is designed to provide practical tools and inspiration to help producers open their gates and welcome guests in a way that strengthens both their operations and rural communities.”

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