North Platte, Neb. — Lincoln County officials, in partnership with the City of North Platte and Marvin Planning Consultants, will host two public open houses on Thursday, July 24, to present the proposed Lincoln County Comprehensive Plan draft and the final draft of the Lincoln County Housing Needs Assessment Study.

The open houses will be held at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Each session will begin with a brief presentation on both projects, followed by opportunities for attendees to ask questions and provide feedback. Representatives from Marvin Planning Consultants and the county will be on hand to answer questions.

Lincoln County to Host Open Houses on Comprehensive Plan and Housing Study July 24

GRANT, Neb. — With near-perfect weather and a jam-packed schedule, the Perkins County Fair in Grant is in full swing — and gearing up for a high-energy weekend of food, fun, and live music.

Kasey Kroeker of the Perkins County Fair Board joined Z93.5 Country’s Derek Beck Thursday morning to preview the final days of the fair, which officially kicked off with a community Chamber breakfast and continues with a flurry of 4-H events, family activities, and live entertainment.

“Whatever meets your fancy, we’ve got it,” Kroeker said, highlighting a diverse lineup of food vendors offering everything from barbecue to Mexican cuisine, pizza, and ice cream. “We’ve got some new ones this year, and the weather’s been amazing.”

Thursday night marks the start of the fair’s major entertainment slate, featuring a Ranch Rodeo with 11–12 teams, FFA Farm Olympics, and mutton busting. The beer garden will be open and ready for guests.

“We’ve got a great group on the board that puts the Ranch Rodeo together,” Kroeker said. “FFA’s going to put on a good show too — I’ve heard it’s going to be pretty funny.”

Friday brings a full day of family fun with a Kids Carnival and a performance by local talent Shane Parde at 5 p.m. in the bingo area — a popular return act, playing both Friday and Saturday evenings.

“He just plays with his guitar and has a great voice. He’s super entertaining,” Kroeker said.

That sets the stage for Friday night’s big rock concert with Eve 6, with gates opening at 6 p.m. A live DJ will entertain ahead of the 8 p.m. show, with more music following the concert.

“This is new for us,” Kroeker said. “We had the rodeo last year, but we wanted to mix it up. Eve 6 was a great option. If you’re a 90s or 2000s fan, you’ll definitely recognize the hits.”

Country Music Doubleheader Saturday

Saturday brings even more with the traditional parade in the morning, followed by the annual 4-H barbecue — an important fundraiser for local youth programs.

“We really want people to come out and support it. All that money goes back to the 4-H Council and the kids,” Kroeker said.

The afternoon includes a kids’ tractor pull before things gear up again for the final night’s headline show — a country music doubleheader with Josh Ross and Joe Nichols.

“Josh Ross is an up-and-comer we were lucky to book. And pairing him with Joe Nichols — who has had hit after hit — makes for a huge finale,” Kroeker said.

Tickets are available in advance at <a href="http://perkinscountyfairgrounds.com">perkinscountyfairgrounds.com</a> and at the gate. Schedules, updates, and photos are posted regularly on the fair’s Facebook page.

Kroeker emphasized the importance of community support and local sponsors in making the event possible.

“Everything we do down here — it doesn’t happen without our sponsors,” he said. “If you’re at the fair, go thank them. Better yet, shop with them. That’s how all of this works.”

Big Crowds, Big Sounds Expected at Perkins County Fair This Weekend in Grant (PODCAST)

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — In a nearly three-hour session Tuesday night, the North Platte City Council tackled a packed agenda featuring major infrastructure investments, commercial redevelopment progress, and housing rehabilitation projects.

Mayor Brandon Kelliher said the council’s extended discussion reflected “a lot of good activity,” highlighting the reappointment of Lee Davies, Kathleen Matthews and Emily Worll to the city’s Planning Commission. “They dedicate three to six hours a month—sometimes more—on work that really shapes our community,” Kelliher said.

The council discussed the first reading of an ordinance outlining wastewater charges for users of the city’s new industrial wastewater plant, built to support Sustainable Beef. As the facility's sole user for now, Sustainable Beef will shoulder all operational and debt service costs. The city also authorized a contract with HDR Engineering to assist with the plant's construction phase.

“This isn’t costing taxpayers anything,” Kelliher noted. “And this infrastructure is already attracting interest from other major employers looking to bring about 150 jobs.”

In redevelopment matters, the council approved an amendment to the North Platte Mall project’s redevelopment contract, part of the District 177 site. The site, which now hosts successful retail additions like Five Below and TJ Maxx, could soon see further expansion in the near future. “This incentive-based model rewards developers who bring in retailers our community wants,” Kelliher said.

On housing and road expansion, council members discussed paving changes and awarded a contract to Paulsen Inc. to extend Francis Street eastward.

Lastly, the council reviewed a proposal from the North Platte Regional Airport Authority seeking budget distribution changes to avoid high-interest lines of credit, potentially saving taxpayers money.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to be efficient with every tax dollar,” Kelliher said.

The next city council meeting is scheduled for August 6.

North Platte City Council wraps up Lengthy Meeting with Key Infrastructure, Development votes

COZAD, Neb. — Cozad’s popular Bands, Brews &amp; Barbecue event returns this Saturday, offering a full day of live music, local vendors, and sizzling barbecue in downtown Cozad.

Hosted by the Cozad Chamber of Commerce, the event kicks off at 9 a.m. and runs through midnight, with activities scheduled throughout the day for all ages.

“This event really has it all,” said Chamber Director Jordan Starman. “We’ve got live music, a barbecue cook-off, bounce houses for the kids, and a great variety of vendors. It’s going to be a great day.”

The day begins with vendor booths opening at 9 a.m. in the green space next to the 100th Meridian Museum, offering everything from coffee and baked goods to crafts and baby items. Vendors will remain open until 4 p.m.

At 10 a.m., visitors can view a half-size replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the museum. The Sweet Adelines will follow at 11 a.m. with a performance of patriotic music. Free children’s activities, including bounce houses and obstacle courses, will also begin at 11.

The evening’s headline entertainment begins when gates open at 6:30 p.m., with all-you-can-eat barbecue included in the price of admission. Sweetwater takes the stage first, followed by featured performer Tyler Anthony.

The centerpiece of the evening is the barbecue contest, with six local grillers from the Cozad and Gothenburg areas competing for prizes. All competitors receive identical cuts of meat—donated by Tyson and Busy Bones Butchers—and are judged on appearance, flavor, and presentation. Judging begins at 5:30 p.m., and winners will be announced prior to the evening performances. Cash prizes and custom trophies are up for grabs.

Attendees can purchase tickets for $20 in advance through the Cozad Chamber office at 121 West 9th Street or by contacting the chamber directly. Tickets will also be available at the gate on Saturday for $30.

Starman says the weather is expected to cooperate, with a comfortable forecast in the mid-80s.

“It always seems to fall on the hottest day of the year, but this year looks pretty mild,” she said. “We’re ready for a great time.”

For more information or to reserve tickets, contact the Cozad Chamber of Commerce.

Cozad Set to Host Full Day of Food, Music, and Fun at Bands, Brews & Barbecue This Saturday

OGALLALA, Neb. — It's a sizzlin’ start to July out at Lake McConaughy, where temps are heating up and the fish are biting. Whether you're trolling for walleye, tossing lines off rocky points, or just catching some rays on the water, Nebraska’s biggest lake is the place to be this weekend.

Welcome to the Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report, your weekly update on all things Big Mac — brought to you by Spahn Marine in Big Springs, your go-to for Mercury Premier service and boat motor help at the lake. Stuck on the water? Call Spahn at 308-889-3531 and get back to cruising.

Surface temps are holding steady between 68 and 70 degrees, and the walleye action is hot! Anglers are having success trolling in 15 to 25 feet of water — especially from Lone Eagle to Sand Point, and on the south side from Kelly Bay to Lakeview. Fire Tiger swim baits are the lure of choice this week.

Meanwhile, smallmouth bass are still hanging around the rocky points on the south side and the dam face. Trout fans, don’t sleep on the canal below the Lake Ogallala dam — the bite there remains strong.

Lake elevation currently sits at 3,231.1 feet — that’s about 51.5% full, or 898,100 acre-feet of water for you technical types.

Need a place to launch? You’re covered at:

Every tent site and camper pad is booked solid for the 4th of July weekend — so if you didn’t grab a spot early, head to <a href="https://www.visitkeithcounty.com">VisitKeithCounty.com</a> to check for alternate lodging nearby.

Campfires? Still allowed, but remember: use extreme caution and never leave your fire unattended. And keep the fireworks at home — they are not permitted at Lake McConaughy or Lake Ogallala.

Thanks to Patrick Schnell with Nebraska Game and Parks for the outdoor updates, and to the Keith County Visitors Committee for helping keep us all in the know.

That’s your Lake Mac Report for the week! Find more updates at <a href="https://www.sandhillspost.com">SandhillsPost.com</a>, and remember — whether you're casting a line or just soaking up the sun, life’s better at the lake.

Brought to you by Spahn Marine in Big Springs and Buzz’s Marine in Kearney.

Lake Mac Report: Fun in the Sun, Fish on the Line, and Fireworks in the Sky

Listen to Full Interview About Building with Kristi Chessmore

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Lincoln County Agricultural Society is renewing its call for community support as it continues efforts to fund and build a long-discussed multi-purpose facility at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds in North Platte.

Kristi Chessmore, a member of the Lincoln County Ag Society Board, said in a recent interview with The North Platte Post that despite rumors to the contrary, the board is committed to seeing the project through.

“Yes, absolutely,” Chessmore said when asked if the project was still active. “We are very dedicated to building a facility where year-round activities can happen—something North Platte doesn’t currently have.”

The proposed facility would include a large indoor arena, flexible classroom and meeting spaces, and banquet seating for up to 500 people. It would be located at the northwest corner of the fairgrounds and would not impact the existing racetrack, a concern that had circulated online. Plans show the pits may be relocated, but the track itself would remain intact.

The estimated cost of the project is around $12 million, and while the fair board has already secured some pledged donations, they are still searching for a major benefactor to help move the project forward.

“We had a $500,000 grant from the Lincoln County Visitors Bureau a few years ago,” Chessmore said. “But we had to turn it back because we didn’t break ground in time. We’re not giving up—but we need more in place before we can reapply.”

Several businesses have already stepped up with pledges, including Farm Credit Services and DaySpring Bank, which have committed $50,000 and $100,000, respectively. All donations are being kept in a separate account, Chessmore emphasized, to address concerns about past fundraising efforts.

“None of that money is mixed with our general fund,” she said. “Every dollar donated specifically for the building is accounted for and protected.”

Still, misconceptions linger. Chessmore noted public confusion around how past donations were used, as well as a general misunderstanding of the fair board's tax funding.

“We are the last line item on your tax statement,” she said. “We get about 0.0067%—we are the lowest-funded entity in the county.”

A new building committee has recently formed and plans to distribute survey table tents across the county in the coming weeks, seeking updated public input and gauging interest.

The need for such a facility, Chessmore argued, is clear. The fairgrounds receive frequent inquiries from groups looking to host large indoor events, especially in winter, but there is currently no suitable venue in North Platte.

“We’re missing out on a lot of income that could be coming into this community year-round,” she said. “We know this would benefit not just the ag community, but local hotels, restaurants, and retail, too.”

The board meets publicly on the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the fairgrounds. Chessmore invited anyone with questions or interest in supporting the project to reach out directly by phone at 308-520-5420 or by email at <a>kcsmore@gmail.com</a>.

In the meantime, preparations are underway for the 2025 Lincoln County Fair, set for July 23–27, with pre-fair events like the horse show beginning July 19. This year’s highlights include a Gary Allan concert, a new ranch rodeo, and live-streamed livestock shows.

While Chessmore acknowledged the disappointment from some over the absence of a carnival this year, she said the fair continues to prioritize youth and 4-H programming, emphasizing its role as a community tradition and agricultural showcase.

“Fair is about the kids,” she said. “And our local youth are some of the most competitive in the state. They work hard—and they deserve a facility that reflects that.”

<a href="https://lincolegacy.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLTdRVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFNZ3JhV0RUbnMwM25aZmx4AR7PFjHgRVSIMMLlEdcOw1lWWclnzfxU6qH9t9pPWlXCPwFFGrjPKk-sM2u_2w_aem__-j8NwFNP9AVlMo7Vu4kbQ">Those wanting more information on the building project can click here for additional information.</a>

Lincoln County Fair Board Still Pursuing Multi-Purpose Building at Fairgrounds

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Ten years ago today, 3-year-old Olivia Swedberg gave the ultimate gift — the gift of life. Following her unexpected passing on July 1, 2015, Olivia became an organ donor, saving four lives and giving the gift of sight to another.

Now, her mother, Lauressa Gillock, is honoring Olivia’s legacy by asking others to take just 10 minutes today to do something kind in her memory.

LISTEN TO INTERVIEW WITH LAURESSA GILLOCK

“She was the kindest, most free-spirited little girl,” Gillock told the North Platte Post. “She saw the beauty in everything, and that’s what I want people to do today — find the beauty, share the kindness, and just be a good human in Olivia’s honor.”

Gillock partnered with Live On Nebraska, the state’s organ and tissue donor network, to launch #Olivias10MinutesOfKindness — a movement aimed at spreading compassion and raising awareness about organ donation.

People are encouraged to perform a simple act of kindness, whether it’s volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply making someone smile, and post a photo or video using the hashtag to inspire others.

“It takes less than 10 minutes to make someone’s day,” Gillock said. “And if you're able, take one more step and sign up to be an organ donor — one box on a form could save multiple lives.”

Olivia’s donation helped save four individuals — a legacy that continues to impact families across the region. Gillock says she hopes others will also consider registering as organ donors and, importantly, talking to their loved ones about their wishes.

“It’s a hard conversation, but it matters,” she said. “No one wants to make that decision in the moment. If you can say ahead of time, ‘This is what I want,’ you take the burden off your family — and maybe save a life.”

You can sign up to be an organ donor today in Olivia’s honor at <a href="https://LiveOnNebraska.org/ref/olivia">LiveOnNebraska.org/ref/olivia</a>.

📸 Share your acts of kindness using #Olivias10MinutesOfKindness
🫀 Sign up to be a donor at <a href="https://liveonnebraska.org/ref/olivia/">LiveOnNebraska.org/ref/olivia</a>

Let Olivia’s story inspire you — not just today, but every day.

🎙️​Olivia’s 10 Minutes of Kindness’ Inspires Acts of Compassion, Organ Donation Awareness, Conversation with her mom Lauressa Gillock

SUTHERLAND, Neb. — The countdown is over in Sutherland as the community prepares for its 88th annual 4th of July Celebration — a four-day stretch of small-town pride, rodeo action, and family fun that draws visitors from across Nebraska.

“It’s here — whether we’re ready or not,” joked Janet Mueller of the Sutherland Rodeo Committee in an interview with the North Platte Post’s Derek Beck. “The beginning of July isn’t planning time — it’s go time.”

Festivities officially begin Tuesday, July 1 with the return of the All-Girl Toughest With The Twine roping event at 4 p.m. at the Sutherland Rodeo Grounds. Mueller said the unique event challenges female ropers to head, heel, and breakaway — showcasing serious skills.

“It’s growing every year,” Mueller said. “All you have to do is come and enjoy a fun time with your family and cheer on your favorite cowgirl.”
Admission is free, with concessions and a beer garden available.

From there, the celebration only ramps up, with action-packed days and nights leading up to the 4th.

Sutherland 4th of July Celebration Schedule

This year marks the 88th celebration and approximately the 82nd year of the Rodeo Queen competition, Mueller said. The Junior Queen contest serves as a stepping stone for young girls considering the journey to Miss Rodeo Nebraska, and Sutherland has produced more than its share of past winners.

“We see it as a function for the community,” Mueller said. “It’s not just about the number of years — it’s about bringing people in, showing them what Sutherland has to offer, and keeping our community vibrant.”

Advance rodeo tickets are available at Mines and Pronto in Sutherland or at the gate each night. Full details and event schedules can be found on the Sutherland Rodeo Facebook page or by searching "Sutherland, Nebraska" on Facebook.

As Mueller puts it: “We just like to provide the best entertainment we possibly can for the families out there.”

🎙️​Sutherland Gears Up for 88th Annual 4th of July Celebration 

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, we welcome back Jacob Brandl, the Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss offseason recruiting and how he is feeling after a long recruiting offseason as well as his thoughts on the upcoming schedule and so much more.

(Audio) Knight's Weekly #11 Recruiting special featuring Coach Jacob Brandl Head Coach for NPCC Men's team

LISTEN TO FULL INTERVIEW WITH OGALLALA CITY MANAGER

OGALLALA, Neb - The Ogallala City Council met Monday night for a wide-ranging agenda that included fireworks regulations, street improvement plans, nuisance abatement updates, and progress on a historic housing redevelopment project.

The meeting’s most anticipated item was the council's decision to lift the city’s temporary fireworks ban, following improved moisture levels in the area. City Manager Kevin Wilkins said the unanimous vote was made in coordination with the fire chief and other Keith County fire officials.

“With the rain we’ve had and what’s in the forecast, we feel confident in allowing the sale and discharge of fireworks this year,” Wilkins said during a radio interview Tuesday.

Fireworks sales and use will be permitted from June 30 through midnight on July 4. Wilkins emphasized public safety, urging residents to avoid lighting fireworks in grassy areas and to refrain from launching fireworks into the city pool—a recurring issue that has damaged equipment in previous years.

In place of the traditional aerial display, Ogallala will host a drone show on Saturday, July 5 at 10 p.m., accompanied by a synchronized soundtrack airing on local radio station Flat Rock 100.7.

Beyond fireworks, the council also discussed the city’s continued collaboration with PeopleService Inc. on water and wastewater management. While no major issues were reported, Wilkins said the city is still waiting on state funds to move forward with significant upgrades to its water treatment facility.

“It would be far more efficient for the state to release the money now so we can fix it properly, instead of putting expensive band-aids on,” Wilkins said.

Mary Wilson with the Keith County Area Development also addressed the council, highlighting regional land banking efforts and small business outreach. Ogallala economic developer Molly Jeffries made nearly 600 business contacts during the last reporting period as part of the city’s retention and expansion strategy.

On the zoning front, the council approved a historic district overlay for three former school properties, including the old high school and middle school. This designation will allow developers to pursue tax incentives and grants as part of a planned redevelopment project that includes 44 units of mixed-income housing. The project is expected to be complete by early 2027.

Additionally, 17 properties were declared nuisances as part of the city’s annual abatement program. These ranged from minor yard cleanups to more serious violations, such as unlicensed vehicles. A total of 135 properties were reviewed.

Council members also approved an engineering agreement for a major street reconstruction project downtown, with estimated costs nearing $600,000. Another proposal under review includes a new EMS ambulance barn to be located on the Ogallala Community Hospital grounds. Preliminary estimates suggest a price tag of around $1.5 million.

The council wrapped the meeting with board updates and Wilkins’ report, which again emphasized responsible fireworks usage during the upcoming holiday week.

“Be courteous, be safe, and shut it down early enough at night,” Wilkins said. “That’ll go a long way in reducing complaints.”

Ogallala City Council Lifts Fireworks Ban, Approves Street and Housing Projects (Podcast)

LISTEN TO CONVERSATION WITH SAM ELLIOTT

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Deborah’s Legacy will host its annual Landscape and Garden Tour this Friday and Saturday, June 27–28, offering residents a chance to explore four of North Platte’s most picturesque gardens while supporting a Christ-centered recovery program for women.

The self-guided tour runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. They can be purchased in advance at Deborah’s Legacy, located across from Huebner's Nursery Lawn &amp; Garden, or at Bible Supplies. Limited tickets may also be available the mornings of the event at the downtown pop-up shop in Blackledge Park.

Sam Elliott, one of the event organizers, said during a recent radio interview that the tour not only showcases the creativity and hard work of local gardeners but also brings the community together in a meaningful way.

“Our gardeners have been working very, very hard to create fabulous spaces,” Elliott said. “It’s a joyful event. People leave inspired — sometimes even with a new plant or two.”

This year’s tour also includes a stop at Blackledge Park, where the Deborah’s Legacy pop-up shop will feature items handmade by women in the program, including garden accessories, T-shirts, and coffee. Proceeds from the event benefit Deborah’s Legacy, a nonprofit supporting women recovering from addiction, homelessness, and crisis.

Attendees will also be entered into a prize drawing that includes gift certificates, a large handcrafted planter box, and a ticket to the Sip &amp; Savor event at Dahlia Valley Ranch in Arnold.

“This is just a great way to start your summer morning — grab your friends, take your time through each garden, and maybe go to lunch afterwards,” Elliott said. “Friends don’t let friends go to a garden tour alone.”

For more information, visit Deborah’s Legacy or call ahead to check ticket availability.

🎙️​ Annual Garden Tour Returns to North Platte to Support Women’s Recovery Program (PODCAST)

WATCH LIVE - Lincoln County Fair 4-H Horse Show (Saturday, July 19)

The Hot Sheets: July 19, 2025

OGALLALA, Neb. — Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack is ramping up hiring efforts as it prepares to open its temporary casino and racetrack facility, pending approval from the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission. The resort is offering expanded opportunities for job seekers, including daily walk-in interviews and upcoming job fairs.

A wide range of positions are available, including roles in casino management, security, surveillance, slot operations, cage cashiering, accounting, administration, and more.

Walk-in interviews are being held Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the resort’s satellite office, located at 215 North Spruce Street in Ogallala.

Additionally, a job fair will take place in Sidney on Saturday, July 27, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Comfort Inn, located at 825 Hoffies Drive.

The hiring team will also be on-site at the Lincoln County Fair from July 24–27 and the Keith County Fair from July 30–August 2, where interested candidates can stop by the booth to learn more about open positions and the hiring process.

Applicants must be at least 19 years old to work in the casino. For more information about available positions or to inquire about interviews, email <a>info@lakemacresort.com</a>.

Job seekers can stay updated by following Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack on social media, texting MAC to 217777, or visiting the resort’s website.

Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack Expands Walk-In Interviews and Job Fair Dates

The Hot Sheets: July 18, 2025

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The City of North Platte has partnered with JEO Consulting Group Inc. to conduct a comprehensive inventory of public trees across city-owned property.

The project, which began July 14 and will continue through September, aims to document the health, structural integrity, and precise location of each tree. The inventory will also include an assessment of potential hazards and environmental impacts associated with individual trees.

Work will begin in city parks before expanding to other public areas, including rights-of-way. The inventory team will be active during daytime hours, Monday through Friday.

North Platte Launches Citywide Tree Inventory Project

McCOOK, Neb. — The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors gathered Wednesday night for its regular monthly meeting, approving financial disbursements, considering policy amendments, and introducing new campus leadership.

The meeting, held at 6:30 p.m. in Room 225 of McCook Community College’s East Campus, was led by Board Chair Cynthia Duncan. All board members were present except Kent Miller, who was excused.

During the open forum portion of the meeting, community member Norma Stevens addressed the board regarding the future of McCook’s music and theater departments. Don Harpst expressed gratitude for the board’s continued contributions to the community.

Vice President of Student Affairs Kelly Rippen announced that McCook Community College will host the American Watercolor Society International Exhibit from Sept. 8 through Oct. 27.

The board also welcomed several new staff members. Brandi Dannatt was introduced as the new administrator of the Imperial Campus, while Jenni Soper was named administrator of the Ogallala Campus. Marlene Goodenberger was introduced as the college’s new Director of Business and Community Education.

Board member Tyler Pribbeno offered thanks on behalf of the Nebraska Community Foundation Board for use of the East Campus facility.

Under action items, the board unanimously approved disbursements totaling more than $5.3 million for May and June, and passed the first reading of amendments to two personnel-related policies: Policy 4101, which defines college personnel, and Policy 4352, which addresses sick leave for staff.

Reports were presented by MPCC President Ryan Purdy and various cabinet members, including updates from academic affairs, student services, institutional advancement, and marketing.

The meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 20 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 200 of the W.W. Wood Building on North Platte Community College’s North Campus.

Future reports will include a quarterly facilities master plan update in October and the annual auditor’s report and enrollment update in November.

MPCC Board Welcomes New Administrators, Approves Policy Changes at July Meeting

The Hot Sheets: July 17, 2025

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — A North Platte man has been sentenced to eight to 10 years in prison for charges stemming from a standoff with police and an incident in which he held a woman against her will.

Kristopher Weitzel was sentenced this week in Lincoln County District Court on charges of third-degree domestic assault and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person. He previously pleaded no contest as part of a plea agreement that led to the dismissal of additional charges, including assault by strangulation and false imprisonment.

According to court records, the case began in April 2023, when officers responded after Weitzel was reportedly seen firing a shotgun. The incident resulted in an hours-long standoff with law enforcement before he was taken into custody.

Records show that in May 2023, a woman posted bail for Weitzel. Days later, he allegedly assaulted her and held her in a bedroom for three days.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and North Platte Police Department were involved in the investigation.

North Platte Man Sentenced in Standoff, Assault Case

American Legion Baseball - A7 District Game - Hastings Vs. Great Plains Health Post #163

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;

Nebraska track and field senior Axelina Johansson was named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-America First Team on Tuesday.&nbsp;

A native of Hok, Sweden, Johansson earned her third career Academic All-America honor and her second selection to the first team, which she also accomplished last year.&nbsp;

Johansson carries a 3.84 GPA majoring in graphic design. She is the first woman in Nebraska track and field history to achieve three Academic All-America honors in a career, and she joins Ashley Selig as the only Husker women to earn two first-team Academic All-America honors at NU.&nbsp;

Johansson is a six-time All-American in the shot put, winning the 2025 NCAA Indoor and 2023 NCAA Outdoor gold medals. She is also a two-time bronze medalist. Johansson has won the Big Ten shot put title four times as a Husker, including at the 2025 Big Ten Indoor Championships.&nbsp;

The school-record holder in the shot put, Johansson was a 2024 Paris Olympian for Sweden, placing 10th.&nbsp;

Johansson brings Nebraska’s Academic All-America total to eight in 2024-25, joining Bergan Reilly (volleyball), Lexi Rodriguez (volleyball), Merritt Beason (volleyball), Gena Jorgenson (swimming and diving), Jordyn Bahl (softball), Asher Cohen (men's gymnastics) and Taylor Christopulos (men's gymnastics).&nbsp;

Johansson named to Academic All-America First Team

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Ten Nebraska women’s gymnasts earned Big Ten Distinguished Scholar distinction, the conference announced on Monday.

Katelyn Barth, Olivia Burns, Emalee Frost, Genesis Gibson, Lauren Homecillo, Whitney Jencks, Halle Rourke, Isabel Sikon, Emma Spence and Lucy Stanhope were the honorees.

Burns, Jencks, Rourke, Sikon and Stanhope all earned the award for the first time in their career. Barth, Frost, Gibson and Homecillo were recognized for the second time, while Spence was recognized for the third time.&nbsp;

In order to be a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, athletes must have earned Academic All-Big Ten recognition in the previous academic year, must have been enrolled full time at the institution for the entire previous academic year (two semesters or three quarters) and earned a minimum GPA of 3.70 or better during the previous academic year, excluding any summer grades.

Ten Huskers named Big Ten Distinguished Scholars 

Great Plains Health Post #163 Baseball District bracket

Story by NU Athletic Communication

The Nebraska rifle team will face several top teams during the 2025-26 season, as the Huskers announced their season schedule on Monday.

Led by second-year head coach Richard Clark, Nebraska’s slate includes meetings with 2025 NCAA runner-up Kentucky on Oct. 25-26. On Jan. 17-18, NU will once again face the Wildcats alongside Alaska-Fairbanks, which placed third at the 2025 NCAA Championships.

With renovations completed at the Nebraska Rifle Range, the Big Red will host five home matches throughout the 2025-26 season.

“Our schedule being released means we are just that much closer to the start of another rifle season,” Clark said. “With a strong returning group and an incredibly talented freshman class joining them, I think we are set up to see some really great things from our team all season long. Having the ability to host matches back in the Pershing Rifle Range in front of the Husker crowds and hitting the road to face some of the nation’s toughest opponents, our schedule is going to be one that requires our team to answer the call and demonstrate the discipline and attention to detail they show us daily. While the road ahead is going to be challenging, I am excited to see what our athletes will accomplish this season.”

Nebraska begins its season with two home matches against Ohio State (Sept. 27) and UAB (Oct. 11). NU will then travel to West Point, N.Y. for a weekend with matches against Army and Kentucky on Oct. 25 and matches against Kentucky, UAB, and Mt. Aloysius on Oct. 26. The Huskers will then travel to Fort Worth, Texas to take on TCU on Nov. 1 and Schreiner on Nov. 2. On Nov. 15, the Big Red will face UTEP in El Paso, Texas, before coming home for the final match of the fall season to face off against Air Force and Ole Miss on Nov. 22.

NU will open the spring portion of the season with a weekend in Fairbanks, Alaska, competing against Kentucky and Alaska-Fairbanks on both Jan. 17 and 18. The Huskers will then travel back to Lincoln for a pair of home matches against Jacksonville State on Jan. 30-31.

The Big Red will begin championship season with the 2026 Patriot Rifle Conference Championships on Feb. 7-8 in Oxford, Miss., featuring NU, Ohio State, Ole Miss, UTEP, TCU, Air Force and Alaska-Fairbanks.

Nebraska’s NCAA Qualifier match will be at Ohio State on Feb. 21, and the 2026 NCAA Championships will also be held at OSU on March 12-13.

The Huskers return five shooters for the upcoming season in seniors Camilla Johannessen and Emma Rhode and sophomores Grace Corbett, Maddy Moyer, and Alivia Perkins. Nebraska will add three new freshmen to the squad - Hannah Gallagher, Carley Seabrooke, and Katlyn Sullivan.

The full 2025-26 schedule can be found <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/rifle/schedule">here</a>.

Sat., Sept. 27 - Ohio State - Lincoln, Neb.

Sat., Oct. 25 - at Army/Kentucky - West Point, N.Y.

Sun., Oct. 26 - Kentucky/UAB/Mt. Aloysius

Sat., Nov. 1 - at TCU - Fort Worth, Texas

Sun., Nov. 2 - Schreiner - Fort Worth, Texas

Sat., Nov. 22 - Air Force/Ole Miss - Lincoln, Neb.

Sat./Sun., Jan. 17-18 - at Alaska-Fairbanks/Kentucky - Fairbanks, Alaska

Sat./Sun., Jan. 30-31 - Jacksonville State - Lincoln, Neb.

Sat./Sun., Feb. 7-8 - PRC Championships - Oxford, Miss.

Sat., Feb. 21 - NCAA Qualifier - Columbus, Ohio

Fri./Sat., March 12-13 - NCAA Championships - Columbus, Ohio

Nebraska Rifle releases 2025-26 Schedule

Nebraska junior Luke Broderick was selected in the 14th round of the Major League Baseball Draft by the Colorado Rockies with the No. 407 pick overall in the draft on Monday afternoon.

Broderick becomes the eighth Husker pitcher under head coach Will Bolt to be drafted after Mason McConnaughey was selected by the Texas Rangers in the fourth round.

The junior is the fourth Husker to be selected by the Rockies in the draft. Broderick earned second-team All-Big Ten recognition and was named to the Big Ten All-Tournament Team and NCBWA’s Preseason and Midseason Stopper of the Year Watch Lists in his first season with the Huskers in 2025.

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