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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sandhill Cranes Economic Impact More Than $19 Million

Do you have old tires you’ve been looking to get rid of? Keep North Platte Lincoln County Beautiful, the City of North Platte with support from Nebraska Water, Environment and Energy is hosting a free Tire Collection Event March 19-21, 2026, from 8AM – 4PM or until the threshold of 250 tons is met. 

You can bring tires to the North Platte Transfer Station located at 3320 W North Lake Rd which is the North Platte Transfer Station near Lake Maloney. 

Tires will be accepted from Lincoln County and surrounding counties free of charge. No rims will be taken. Once the 250 ton threshold is met, the event will be closed. Commercial tire businesses are not allowed to drop off at this event. 

For additional questions please contact Keep North Platte and Lincoln County Beautiful at (308)534-8100.

Tire Amnesty to Be Held in March

The Hot Sheets: February 22, 2026

North Platte, NE — Jenny Lantis has announced her candidacy for the North Platte Public School Board of Education, with a focus on strengthening stability, supporting educators, and ensuring measurable student outcomes for the district and the broader community.

Lantis and her husband, Bob, have built their life in North Platte and are raising their daughters, Gracia, Lexi, and Whitley, in the community they proudly call home. “Our family has deep roots in North Platte,” Lantis said. “We’ve experienced the district from kindergarten through high school graduation and beyond. Strong schools are foundational to a strong community, and we are committed to seeing both thrive.”

Lantis has spent more than a decade working in healthcare quality and leadership at Great Plains Health. Her work centers on problem-solving, policy development, and supporting staff through real-world challenges. Skills she believes translate directly to effective service on the school board. She also serves in community organizations, including Leadership Lincoln County and the North Platte Chamber Hostesses, giving her a broad perspective on local needs and long-term opportunities.

“In my career, I’ve learned that lasting improvement comes from strengthening systems and supporting the people doing the work,” Lantis said. “That same mindset applies to school governance. Strong structures, clear accountability, and consistent leadership create sustainable success.”

Her priorities reflect that approach: • Supporting staff retention and classroom stability • Reinforcing clear governance and leadership consistency • Aligning resources with measurable student growth • Strengthening long-term sustainability for the district

“Our community deserves steady, thoughtful governance,” Lantis said. “Families want a school board that listens, communicates clearly, and stays focused on what truly improves learning. I aim to bring a calm, practical voice to the board and keep students at the center of every decision.”

“I want families and staff to feel confident that decisions are steady, responsible, and centered on students,” she added. “This campaign is about strengthening the systems that support our educators, serve our students, and position our district and community for long-term success.”

For more information or to get involved, residents can contact the campaign at: jennylantis.schoolboard@gmail.com

Jenny Lantis Announces Candidacy for North Platte Public School Board, Ward 3

Kjay Charles Smith, 49, North Platte &amp; Saminda Sue Erickson, 48, North Platte

Daniel John Schilmoeller, 50, North Platte &amp; Katie Lynn Fricke, 39, North Platte

Brennan Robert Toner, 29, North Platte &amp; Stephanie Jean Whips, 32, North Platte

Cade James Lewis Davis, 21, North Platte &amp; Elisabeth Anne Kramer, 23, North Platte

Lincoln County Marriage Licenses (Week Of February 16, 2026)

The Hot Sheets: February 21, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Hot Sheets: February 20, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pederson encourages other youth to consider joining.

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

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

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

🎙️4-H Member Month Highlights Opportunities for Area Youth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>

Outrage erupted last month when Oklahoma City residents learned of plans to convert a vacant warehouse into an immigration processing facility.

Making&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/2026/01/27/oklahomans-denounce-potential-ice-processing-center-at-okc-city-council-meeting/" target="_blank">matters worse</a>&nbsp;was the secrecy of the federal government: City leaders received no communication from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement aside from a mandated&nbsp;<a href="https://www.okc.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/city-manager/ltr-from-dhs-to-okc-about-okc-detention-center.pdf" target="_blank">disclosure</a>&nbsp;related to historic preservation.

Planning a major development without city input is antithetical to the in-depth, sometimes arcane permitting, planning and zoning process in Oklahoma City. Mayor David Holt, a former Republican state senator, said those land use decisions are among the most crucial of any municipal government.

“For any entity to be able to open a detention center in our communities, potentially next to neighborhoods or schools, regardless of your views on immigration policy or enforcement, is very challenging, because that’s a very high-impact use, and that’s the kind of thing that we would expect to talk about,” he told Stateline.

Communities across the country are facing similar prospects as ICE undertakes a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2026/01/21/nx-s1-5674887/ice-budget-funding-congress-trump" target="_blank">massive expansion</a>&nbsp;fueled in large part by the record $45 billion approved for increased immigration detention by Congress last summer.

During President Donald Trump’s second term, ICE is holding a record number of detainees —&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/02/05/immigration-detention-passed-70000-in-january/" target="_blank">more than 70,000</a>&nbsp;as of January — across its own facilities as well as in contracted local jails and private prisons. ICE<a href="https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt971/files/inline-documents/merrimack-detention-reengineering-initiative.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;documents</a>&nbsp;from last week show plans for acquiring and renovating 16 processing sites that hold up to 1,500 people each and eight detention centers that hold up to 10,000 each, for a total capacity of 92,600 beds. The agency also has plans for some 150 new leases and office expansions across the country,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wired.com/story/ice-expansion-across-us-at-heres-where-its-going-next/?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-us" target="_blank">Wired reported</a>.

But ICE’s plans to convert industrial buildings — often warehouses — into new detention facilities have recently faced fierce opposition over humanitarian and economic concerns. From Utah to Texas to Georgia, local governments have sought to block these massive facilities. But with limited legal authority, city and state officials have turned to the court of public opinion to deter private developers and the federal government.

Holt, who is the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, a nonpartisan organization representing the more than 1,400 leaders of cities with populations of 30,000 or more, said cities have little legal recourse over the ICE facilities.

“We all have a clear, unified position that really crosses party lines,” he said, “and then we also have a clear understanding of how limited our options are.”

Local leaders often cite the U.S. Constitution’s&nbsp;<a href="https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/essay/artVI-C2-1/ALDE_00013395/" target="_blank">supremacy clause</a>, which says federal laws supersede conflicting state laws. That leaves cities with limited influence over projects that could take industrial space off tax rolls, cause new strains on city services and raise serious humanitarian concerns given the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement, including the high-profile killings of two Americans in Minnesota.

Facing bipartisan opposition, the out-of-state owner of the Oklahoma City warehouse ultimately decided to&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/briefs/proposed-oklahoma-city-ice-facility-is-off-the-table/" target="_blank">end talks</a>&nbsp;of selling or leasing its warehouse to the federal government.

Similar public pressure has proved effective in reversing plans in several other cities: In late January, a Canadian firm said it would not proceed with a planned sale of a Virginia warehouse after it faced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/01/us/politics/ice-warehouse-detention-canada.html" target="_blank">calls for a boycott</a>&nbsp;from Canadian politicians and businesses. In Mississippi, U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker announced the federal government would&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenatorWicker/status/2019820750900002820" target="_blank">“look elsewhere”</a>&nbsp;after he spoke with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who oversees ICE. Wicker, a Republican who said he supports immigration enforcement, echoed local&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2026/2/wicker-proposed-ice-facility-threatens-byhalia-mississippi-economy-and-infrastructure" target="_blank">economic concerns</a>&nbsp;of a project planned in Byhalia.

Some officials have welcomed the new facilities: Missouri Republican U.S. Rep. Mark Alford has&nbsp;<a href="https://alford.house.gov/uploadedfiles/1.16.2026_ice_facility_letter.pdf" target="_blank">lobbied</a>&nbsp;to land a detention and processing center in his district. And last week, a Maryland county approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wbaltv.com/article/washington-county-dhs-ice-resolution-hagerstown-detention-center/70300009" target="_blank">resolution</a>&nbsp;expressing its “full support” for ICE, which is considering purchasing a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washco-md.net/news/washington-county-statement-on-u-s-department-of-homeland-security-notice-concerning-proposed-ice-facility/" target="_blank">warehouse</a>&nbsp;there, despite local protests. But most communities have fought them.

Neither DHS nor ICE responded to Stateline’s questions.

Holt said the discussion resembles other local development concerns where NIMBY — short for Not in My Backyard — is a common description of opponents.

“There are plenty of people who are very law-and-order and supporters of law enforcement who don’t want a jail next to their house,” he said. “That’s why it’s got such broad opposition: NIMBYism is the most powerful force sometimes in American politics and nobody wants a detention center next to their home, their business or their school.”

After learning that ICE planned to take over a vacant warehouse within its city limits, the Kansas City Council in January swiftly approved a five-year ban on nonmunicipal detention facilities.

Kansas City Council member Andrea Bough, who is also a private development attorney, said the move was both political and legal: The city wanted to send a clear signal opposing ICE facilities, but it also wants to exert its local authority over planning and zoning.

She acknowledged the legal hurdle posed by the supremacy clause, but said there was enough ambiguity over the city’s ability to regulate land use that it may take the issue to the courts.

“Some would say local building codes and zoning regulations do not apply to the federal government,” she said. “That’s something I think we would probably in this situation be willing to fight until we had clear guidance on that.”

Following weeks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/david-hudnall/article314486671.html" target="_blank">pressure</a>, the Kansas City firm that owns the 920,000-square-foot warehouse announced Thursday it was no longer “actively engaged with the U.S. Government or any other prospective purchaser,” the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article314676617.html#storylink=cpy" target="_blank">reported</a>.

Jackson County, which includes portions of Kansas City and the potential detention facility, is considering a similar ban. And across the state line, the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, is considering a similar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/wyandotte-county/article314647328.html" target="_blank">two-year moratorium</a>.

But there are clear limitations on cities’ ability to stop federal projects, said Nestor Davidson, a professor who teaches land use and local government law at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.

“The federal government can assert immunity from certain state and local laws, including zoning, but it’s complicated, and there are nuances,” he said.

Still, Davidson said some case law has shown cities may have stronger legal footing for zoning rules that are broad and not directly targeted at specific federal government projects.

“I expect to see litigation,” he said. “I think you’re going to see these conversations play out as land use fights often do: both in a legal venue and in a political venue.”

Kansas City’s moratorium has sparked interest among local activists who have pressured elected officials in other cities across the country to act. But many local officials are adamant that federal law ties their hands.

In a legal opinion provided to the Orlando City Council in Florida, City Attorney Mayanne Downs rejected “suggestions of actions we can supposedly take,” including moratoriums or using zoning ordinances to block ICE detention centers.

“However well motivated these suggestions are, the law is very clear: ICE, as an agency of our federal government, ICE is immune from any local regulation that interferes in any way with its federal mandate,” Downs wrote to the mayor and city commissioners.

ICE is reportedly&nbsp;<a href="https://floridaphoenix.com/2026/02/06/u-s-reps-maxwell-frost-darren-soto-tell-kristi-noem-not-to-open-ice-facility-in-central-florida/" target="_blank">considering</a>&nbsp;a new $100 million processing center in southeast Orlando.

The county commission in Orange County, which includes Orlando, discussed the issue last week after receiving similar legal advice. County Commissioner Nicole Wilson said the board is even more constrained because of a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/180" target="_blank">Florida law&nbsp;</a>limiting certain local governments’ ability to regulate development through 2027.

After being advised against passing a moratorium, the board agreed with Wilson’s follow-up suggestion to draft a resolution expressing its opposition. That will be considered at a future meeting.

“It doesn’t sound like it has the teeth that a moratorium would have, but it essentially gives an awareness that we’ve established a position in opposition to this type of facility in Orange County,” Wilson told Stateline.

An attorney by trade, Wilson said the case law regarding federal projects largely centers on disputes about post offices, which she said is not an appropriate comparison to the massive detention centers currently contemplated.

“A post office has the same water consumption and sewage as probably a lot of other uses,” she said. “If you take a warehouse that was designed for 25,000 widgets and put 15,000 humans in it, you’ve got a very different set of local needs and services that are being used and being taxed and being burdened.”

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