By Allison Peck | North Platte Post

The North Platte School Board appointed Mitchell Wagner to fill the Ward 3 board vacancy following a special meeting on Thursday evening. Wagner, who will be officially sworn in at the board’s regular meeting on January 12, will begin serving immediately upon taking the oath.

The vacancy was created by Justin Thompson, who resigned from the board late last year after moving out of the region.

The board interviewed two candidates for the open seat — Wagner and Jim Whitney — during the special meeting. Both applicants had submitted written responses to preliminary questions in advance, allowing board members time to review their qualifications, experience, and perspectives before conducting live interviews.

Interview Process and Candidate Backgrounds

During the interviews, board members asked a series of questions aimed at understanding how each candidate would approach board governance, policy-making, confidentiality, teamwork, and community representation.

Whitney, a retired educator with experience as a coach and school administrator, highlighted his background in education and familiarity with district operations. He emphasized the importance of listening, collaboration, and following established policy and chain-of-command procedures. Whitney also noted his flexible schedule and ability to dedicate time to board responsibilities.

Watch the Board of Education Special Election Meeting above

Wagner discussed his background in business and his upbringing in a family of educators, saying both experiences shaped his understanding of leadership and accountability. He emphasized the importance of representing the community, listening to constituent concerns, and supporting the district’s mission while maintaining confidentiality on sensitive matters.

Board President Emily Garrick acknowledged the rigor of the interview process and the seriousness with which the board approached the appointment.

“I think we’ve had a couple of really great applications put before us and a couple of great interviews tonight with some similarities, but also some pretty contrasting differences on that,” Garrick said.

She also addressed the nature of the questioning during the interviews, noting the board’s responsibility to thoroughly vet candidates in the absence of a public election.

“Some of those questions were pretty loaded questions that you had no idea we were going to ask you,” Garrick said. “But we also recognize the importance of this role. And when there’s not a public election process, making sure that we’re really doing our due diligence as a board to interview all applicants fairly.”

Following the interviews, the board entered into deliberations, discussing both candidates’ strengths and potential challenges. Whitney was recognized for his extensive experience in education and long-standing ties to the school district. 

However, some board members raised concerns about the potential for conflicts of interest when a board member has close personal or professional connections to the district.

Board President Garrick described the decision as particularly difficult.

In her view, a broader community focus and fewer potential conflicts of interest would be in the best interest of the board at this time.

Vice President Jo Ann Lundgreen also shared her perspective on Wagner, referencing previous interactions during board meetings.

“I have been on the board long enough that I’ve had, not personal interactions with Mr. Wagner, but I have had some interactions with him at our board meetings. And I can’t say that all of those have been positive. I think that comes with the territory sometimes,” Lundgreen said. “While I can appreciate a business mindset, schools do run differently from businesses. It will be interesting to have an opportunity to learn and grow. That’s what we’re all about.”

Ward One Board Member Skip Altig echoed similar concerns during deliberations.

A motion to appoint Whitney to the vacant seat failed on a 2–3 vote. The board then called a vote to appoint Wagner, which passed.

Board President Emily Garrick, along with board members Cindy O’Connor and Angela Blaesi, voted in favor of appointing Wagner. Altig and Lundgreen voted against the motion.

In a statement to The Post, Wagner said, “I am grateful for the board’s vote of confidence and look forward to representing the constituents and doing my best to assist in providing the best possible education for the area’s youth.”

Board members thanked both applicants for their willingness to participate in a public interview process, noting the difficulty of answering challenging questions in a public setting.

With Wagner’s appointment, the Ward 3 seat is now filled, and the board will continue its work addressing district priorities, governance, and student success.

Mitchell Wagner Appointed to Ward 3 School Board After Special Meeting

<a href="https://www.up.com/news/growth/customers-enhanced-gps-tracking-260105">Press Release</a>

Union Pacific is making intermodal shipping smarter and enhancing visibility with a new GPS-powered platform developed by supply chain technology partner Blume Global.

GPS tracking is now embedded in Union Pacific’s 53-foot&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/shipping/intermodal/emp">EMP</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/shipping/intermodal/umax">UMAX</a>&nbsp;domestic containers, which are owned in partnership with other Class I railroads. Together, the combined fleets represent the largest GPS-enabled, rail-owned container fleet in North America. Central to the upgrade is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.blumeglobal.com/">Blume’s</a>&nbsp;enhanced GPS intermodal platform, providing customers with real-time, smarter visibility into their shipments.

These tools help customers resolve issues faster, plan more effectively and reduce manual follow-ups, leading to an enhanced and reliable shipping experience.

“This is another meaningful step as we deliver the best customer experience possible,” said&nbsp;Kenny Rocker, executive vice president-Marketing and Sales, Union Pacific Railroad. “By combining GPS-enabled containers with real-time data and smarter visibility tools, we’re providing the transparency and reliability our customers depend on.”

From Rail to Real-Time: Union Pacific Empowers Intermodal Customers with Enhanced GPS Tracking

The Hot Sheets: January 9, 2026

The Hot Sheets: January 8, 2026

North Platte, NE – A commercial solar farm is moving closer to reality near Victoria Lane and East State Farm Road after the North Platte City Council approved a conditional use permit at its first meeting of 2026.

Mayor Brandon Kelleher said the decision came after careful discussion and several conditions to ensure the project benefits the city. “The developer has to come back with a contract…basically showing who the power is gonna be sold to,” Kelleher explained. “It gets very long, but the solar power farm has to connect into the grid somewhere. Most likely it will connect to the city of North Platte, which then transfers power to NPPD. Then it could go wherever it needs to go from there.”

The council’s approval requires that the developer finalize contracts outlining the destination and sale of the electricity before construction begins. “It is possible that this group may have a local customer,” Kelleher said. “In that case, the power would connect to the city of North Platte’s local grid, and then be transferred over to whoever the customer is in town. One of the stipulations in this is that we know who that is before the construction begins.”

The solar project is expected to be a financial benefit to the city, with Kelleher noting the potential for a “wheeling fee”—a payment for carrying the electricity from the solar farm to its point of delivery. “It won’t cost the city anything and we’ll be paid a wheeling fee,” he said. “So it’s more than likely a good deal for the city, but we’ll have to see the contracts and it’s all said and done.”

The council’s approval represents a step forward in North Platte’s renewable energy development, balancing economic opportunity with careful oversight to ensure city residents benefit from the project. Construction will not begin until contracts are finalized, and the city will monitor the connection to the grid closely.

Mayor Kelleher encouraged residents to follow future council meetings for updates on the project and other city developments.

City Council Approves Conditional Use Permit for North Platte Solar Farm

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

North Platte, NE – The City of North Platte started the new year with its first council meeting of 2026, tackling a variety of items from city vehicle purchases to a conditional use permit for a new solar farm. Mayor Brandon Kelleher joined the discussion alongside council members, emphasizing transparency and careful use of taxpayer dollars.

During the meeting, council members approved the annual appointment of Brent R. Berkeland as City Street Superintendent. Mayor Kelleher noted, “I believe he’s been the city street superintendent for the last probably three, maybe four years. He does a great job as a city engineer and also as a city street superintendent.”

Council also approved the purchase of a small bus for North Platte Public Transit, with 80% of funding provided through the Federal Transportation Assistance Program. Kelleher explained, “From a purchase perspective, raw money, it’s a good deal,” highlighting the benefit to the city.

The sanitation department will receive two small semi-trailers, totaling $264,400, to support hauling waste to the Ogallala landfill. Kelleher added, “These are the trailers for the tractors…this is the equipment that’s used to haul trash from the station out there by the lake to Ogallala to the landfill.”

The council also approved vehicle purchases for the city’s power, water, and sewer departments. Kelleher said, “Several of these, the difference was $8,000 or $9,000 to the next up bid. We ended up going with the lowest bids to have the best use of tax dollars.”

Other highlights included approving Oak Creek Engineering for annual bridge inspections and adopting the city’s “one-in-six” road plan for 2025–2031. Kelleher encouraged residents to view city road projects, saying, “I’d encourage you, if you’re interested, go look at the YouTube video from the city so you can kind of see what…likely road improvements for the next year.”

A major item on the agenda was a conditional use permit for a commercial solar farm at Victoria Lane and East State Farm Road. The item was approved with conditions.

Kelleher explained the decision, “The developer has to come back with a contract…basically showing who the power is gonna be sold to…It’s more than likely a good deal for the city, but we’ll have to see the contracts.”

He expected those contracts to come back in about 60 days.&nbsp;

The council also approved a lease with RS Roloff Solutions for temporary storage of wood debris from the Masonite door manufacturing facility. Kelleher said, “As long as there aren’t any environmental concerns, which there shouldn’t be, then we will continue to do this. It’s a good deal for the city too.”

Finally, Jim Nisly was re-elected as city council president for 2026. Kelleher praised his expertise, saying, “He’s been the council president for a long time…he does a nice job filling in for me when I’m stuck on a plane somewhere.”

The mayor encouraged residents to watch future meetings in person or online, noting improvements in city video broadcasts: “The IT department…did a fantastic job. The quality of the YouTube video is much greater than it has been in the past.” 

The next council meeting is scheduled for January 20, 2026.

North Platte City Council Kicks Off 2026 with Key Decisions and Updates

By Cindy Gonzalez | Nebraska Examiner

LINCOLN — With Tyson Foods weeks away from shuttering its Lexington beef plant, the anticipated financial blow to the state is becoming clearer. Meanwhile, some workers have made strides to adjust.

The statewide economic loss, including both direct and ripple effects, is estimated at $3.28 billion a year, according to a recently released University of Nebraska-Lincoln analysis.

While public documents reported that a “mass layoff” of 3,212 Tyson workers will occur “on or around” Jan. 20, the UNL study projects more than 7,000 jobs will be lost statewide, along with an annual labor income loss of $530 million. That higher job loss count includes employees in other industries that support the Tyson beef plant operation and its workforce.

Tax revenues also will drop with the exit of Lexington’s largest employer. The projected annual decline in state personal income tax revenue is estimated at $23.2 million, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://cap.unl.edu/news/economic-impacts-tyson-beef-plant-closure-lexington-nebraska/" target="_blank">the Dec. 22 report</a>, and state sales tax proceeds are predicted to slide by $10 million a year.

Dawson County and neighboring communities will feel a concentrated punch, say authors and economics professors Elliott Dennis and Eric Thompson. Dennis specializes in livestock and risk management in UNL’s Department of Agricultural Economics. Thompson is an economist and director of the UNL Bureau of Business Research.&nbsp;

According to their analysis, local sales tax revenues in Dawson County will likely fall by $2.77 million a year due to the plant folding. Tyson has said that certain wind-down activities may continue for a short time beyond the Jan. 20 date.

Thompson called the Tyson plant closure significant statewide, saying he hasn’t seen many local employers “of this scale” close shop in the past few decades. The UNL analysis said the Lexington plant could process nearly 5,000 cattle daily, about 4.8% of total daily U.S. beef slaughter. It said the plant’s demise marks the first time one of the “Big Four” meatpacking companies has permanently closed a major facility during the current cattle supply crunch.

Still, Thompson said, such an occurrence in a market economy is not unnatural.&nbsp;

“The state needs to really focus on getting new investment,” he said.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has said that Tyson officials were exploring options for the Lexington facility that include&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/24/state-hunts-way-forward-after-nebraska-got-butts-kicked-by-tyson-plant-closure/">repurposing it</a>&nbsp;into a “value-added” ag operation. Tyson has not announced any plan.

U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb, has lamented publicly that Tyson about 20 years ago “pulled out” of his hometown of Norfolk, eliminating 1,300 jobs at the company’s stripped and now-abandoned meatpacking facility there, and the property has yet to be repurposed.

Since Tyson announced the Lexington plant closure&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/21/nebraskans-lament-tyson-decision-to-close-lexington-plant-with-3200-workers/">on Nov. 21</a>, Pillen has said that more than 1,600 people attended job fairs and other events designed to connect displaced workers with potential jobs and state workforce support services. More events are scheduled.

An hour drive from Lexington, the recently opened Sustainable Beef meatpacking plant in North Platte is hiring about 100 more workers and raising its daily cattle processing goal as a result of Tyson’s Lexington announcement, the North Platte Telegraph and Wall Street Journal have reported.

Lexington-area Tyson workers were inquiring about jobs immediately after Arkansas-based Tyson announced the closure. Sustainable Beef CEO David Briggs told the Telegraph that about 400 former Tyson workers already had joined his workforce, some before and some after the Nov. 21 announcement.&nbsp;

Today, the North Platte plant reportedly aims for 1,000 employees and to process 1,800 head of cattle per day.

Rancher-owned Sustainable Beef opened its plant in 2025 and was expected to create a more competitive supply chain against the “Big Four” producers. The four, Tyson, JBS, Cargill and National Beef, control about 83-85% of U.S. beef processing capacity, which, Dennis said, has long been a point of concern for cattle producers regarding market power and price.

For the Dec. 22 economic impact report, the UNL economists drew upon multiple data sources and used the IMpact analysis for PLANing (IMPLAN) model, a tool they described as an industry standard.&nbsp;

UNL report outlines Nebraska financial hit from Tyson plant exit

Gothenburg, Ne - Central Nebraska community partners are coming together to support the region’s agricultural producers and their families with an Ag Health and Safety Event, Cultivating Health,&nbsp; scheduled for February 3, 2026.

The free event will be held at the Dayspring Bank Event Center in Gothenburg from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, health screenings, and an exhibitor area focused on agriculture-related health and safety. Lunch and a cocktail hour will be provided, and thanks to the support of sponsors, there is no cost to attend.

This year’s theme is “Cultivating Health – Growing Safety,” emphasizing the importance of protecting both the physical and mental well-being of those working in the agriculture industry.

Organizers say the goal of the event is to provide engaging, meaningful education and resources that address real-world challenges faced by ag producers, farm workers, and their families. Men and women working in agriculture are encouraged to attend for a full day of learning, connection, and prevention-focused information.

Tentative topics and speakers for the event include:

In addition to educational sessions, the event will include a variety of health screenings and exhibitor booths, all aimed at promoting safety, prevention, and overall wellness within the agricultural community.

More information about the Ag Health and Safety Event is expected to be released closer to the event date.

Cultivating Health: Ag Health and Safety Event Set for February 3 in Gothenburg

The Hot Sheets: January 7, 2026

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

A federal civil lawsuit has been filed in the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska, tied to the Furnas County sex trafficking investigation that began in 2019. The case, Jane Doe v. Harrington et al, appears on the public docket under Case No. 7:25‑cv‑05010. The lawsuit was originally filed on December 8, 2025, and an amended complaint with a jury demand was submitted on December 24, 2025, allowing the plaintiff’s attorney to refine the claims before the defendants respond.

The plaintiff, referred to as “Jane Doe” in the court filings to protect her identity, names several individuals and business entities she claims played a role in enabling her exploitation. Those listed as defendants in the docket include Shane Harrington, doing business as Paradise City, Carl Kramer Sr., Joseph Baumbach, and other related business entities connected to the alleged trafficking locations. The federal court classifies the case under “Other Statutory Actions” and as a federal question case, indicating that the lawsuit alleges violations of federal law.

The civil case stems from a broader criminal investigation in Furnas County, which identified a trafficking network operating from 2019 into early 2020. Central to the criminal case was William “Billy” J. Quinn of Oxford, Nebraska, who was convicted on multiple felony counts, including sex trafficking of a minor, first-degree sexual assault of a child, production of child sexual material, enticement via electronic communication, and child abuse.

In the criminal proceedings, Quinn received a sentence of a minimum of 176.5 years and a maximum of 304 years in prison, ensuring he will spend the remainder of his life incarcerated. Other participants in the trafficking ring were also prosecuted and sentenced for their roles. Carl Kramer Sr., for example, received five years’ probation and 180 days in jail after pleading to child abuse charges connected to the same victim. Additional individuals, including others associated with the trafficking network, received probation, jail time, and, in some cases, were required to register as sex offenders.

While these criminal sentences imposed legal consequences on the defendants, the federal civil docket reflects that the victim, Jane Doe, is seeking direct accountability to her, alleging that prior prosecutions did not provide legal recourse for the personal harm she suffered.

According to the public docket, the civil complaint alleges that the defendants knew or should have known that Jane Doe was being trafficked and failed to intervene, report the abuse, or contact law enforcement. The defendants named include both individuals and businesses where trafficking occurred, suggesting that the plaintiff seeks to hold all parties accountable for their alleged roles in enabling or benefiting from her exploitation.

The amended complaint, filed December 24, 2025, requests compensatory and punitive damages, as well as coverage of legal fees. These claims rely on federal statutes that permit survivors of trafficking to pursue civil action against individuals or entities who knowingly participated in or benefited from trafficking activities. By filing this federal civil action, Jane Doe is asserting a separate legal avenue beyond the criminal convictions, emphasizing her right to direct remedies for her personal injuries.

As of the most recent docket entries, the civil case is in its early stages. The defendants have not yet filed formal responses, and future steps are expected to include answers, motions to dismiss, and the commencement of discovery, during which parties will exchange evidence.

Because the lawsuit involves a minor, the full complaint and supporting filings are sealed or restricted to protect the victim’s identity. However, the docket itself is public and confirms the filing dates, parties involved, and the nature of the case. Full access to court filings is available through PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) using Case No. 7:25‑cv‑05010, or by contacting the Clerk’s Office of the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska.

This federal civil case highlights a survivor’s ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability, seeking remedies that were not addressed by the criminal sentences of the perpetrators. While the prior prosecutions resulted in lengthy prison terms and other penalties for individuals such as Billy Quinn and various co-defendants, the civil action underscores that criminal convictions do not always provide direct compensation or legal accountability to victims. By filing in federal court, Jane Doe is asserting her right to hold both individuals and associated businesses responsible for their alleged involvement in her trafficking and exploitation.

Federal Civil Lawsuit Filed in Furnas County Sex Trafficking Case

Press Release by Deputy Chief Kendall Allison

The North Platte Police Department participated in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration traffic enforcement over the Christmas and New Year Holidays from December 12th, 2025 through January 1st 2026.

Department wide, three hundred ninety-nine traffic contacts were generated. Of the 399 traffic contacts, 107 citations were issued for various violations. The violations included; 14, Driving Under Suspension and No Operator’s License violations. 17, Traffic Signal violations. 7, Failure to Signal and Illegal Turn violations. 10, Speeding violations. 71, Registration and Insurance violations. 4, Careless Driving and Exhibition of Speed violations.

Eight people were arrested for DUI/Alcohol.

Four juveniles were cited for Minor in Possession of Alcohol.

Three Felony Drug Arrests were made during the grant period which included the seizure of 20 grams of marijuana and 2 ounces of methamphetamine. Twenty-Four fugitive warrants were served.

Of the approximately 1400 calls for service during the enforcement, the North Platte Police Department responded to 32 reported accidents. Two of the accidents involved minor injuries and two involved possible injuries.

North Platte Police Department Announce Holiday Grant Release

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, and welcomed back Coach to discuss all things first semester and share his goals and expectations for his players heading into the second half of the season.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #11 2026 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Hear the full interview with Paxton Gordon on our Kubota Podcast

Eagle Communications in North Platte is entering a new chapter with the promotion of Paxton Gordon to Operations Manager, a move that reflects both the company’s commitment to internal growth and Gordon’s steady rise within the organization.

Gordon officially stepped into the role at the start of the new year after longtime Operations Manager Derek Beck departed Eagle Communications to pursue his own venture, Your Ag Network. Beck had worked for Eagle Communications for just over five years, celebrating his five-year Eagle anniversary in December.

Beck’s departure followed months of transition planning, allowing for a smooth handoff of responsibilities and providing Gordon time to prepare for the role.

For Gordon, the promotion represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Now overseeing operations for five Eagle radio stations in North Platte, he is responsible for keeping the day-to-day mechanics of the stations running while supporting on-air staff, production, and sports coverage.

“They’re like my children now,” Gordon said, referring to the stations. “I have to always worry about them.”

Gordon, a Kansas State University graduate, earned his degree in Mass Communications and Journalism from the A.Q. Miller School of Journalism. His path into broadcasting, however, was not a straightforward one. He initially entered college planning to follow family members into aerospace engineering before realizing that career path wasn’t the right fit.

Radio, it turned out, had already been quietly shaping his future.

Growing up, Gordon spent his early morning drives to school listening to a local sports radio show hosted by broadcaster Jim Davis, whom he still considers an inspiration. That daily routine sparked an interest that followed him through high school and into college, eventually steering him toward broadcasting.

With encouragement from his mother—who reminded him that his love of talking could be turned into a career—and guidance from industry professionals, Gordon began to seriously consider radio. A pivotal moment came during a conversation with longtime Kansas State play-by-play broadcaster Wyatt Thompson, who helped Gordon better understand the possibilities within the field.

“That was really the start of everything,” Gordon said, reflecting on the moment he realized radio could be his future.

After graduating in 2021, Gordon accepted his first broadcasting position in Marysville, Kansas. While the job provided valuable experience, the daily hour-long commute prompted him to explore other opportunities. After interning for Eagle in Manhattan, KS he was eventually offered the full-time Sports Director position in North Platte.

Gordon relocated to North Platte within weeks and quickly became a familiar voice across Eagle’s stations. In addition to sports coverage, he took on production responsibilities, steadily expanding his role behind the scenes.

Now nearing four years with the company, Gordon’s promotion to Operations Manager aligns with Eagle Communications’ long-standing practice of promoting from within.

“It’s one big family,” Gordon said. “They like to keep things internal, reward people who work hard, and keep good people around.”

Stepping into the Operations Manager role means following Beck, whom Gordon credits as both a mentor and a respected leader during his five-plus years with the company.

“Derek’s a superstar in terms of what he’s done,” Gordon said. “There are big shoes to fill.”

In the short term, Gordon will continue handling sports duties through the end of basketball season. Coverage of North Platte Community College and North Platte High School games will remain unchanged for now, with a transition planned as Eagle moves into spring sports. Eagle Communications is actively working to fill the Sports Director and Production Manager position, allowing Gordon to fully focus on his expanded leadership role.

Despite recent staffing changes across departments, Gordon emphasized that listeners should not expect major disruptions.

“We’ve been pretty adaptable over the last few years,” he said. “I don’t think anything too drastic is going to change.”

Those changes include on-air schedule adjustments and internal role shifts that Gordon believes strengthen the overall lineup while maintaining the consistency radio audiences value.

Even as the youngest member of the office, Gordon now leads the North Platte operation, a responsibility he approaches with humility and humor. He credits teamwork, routine, and what he jokingly refers to as the office’s “feng shui” for keeping things running smoothly.

“It’s definitely a little weird,” he said of the transition. “But it was time to take on a new challenge.”

As he begins his first full week as Operations Manager, Gordon remains focused on stability, growth, and serving the North Platte community through local radio.

“Nothing’s really going to change,” Gordon said. “It’s going to be the same great radio. We’re going to put in the effort and do the best we can.”

For Eagle Communications in North Platte, Gordon’s promotion signals continuity backed by fresh leadership—grounded in experience, familiarity, and a genuine passion for radio.

🎙️Paxton Gordon Takes on Operations Manager Role at Eagle Communications in North Platte

Listen to the full interview with Brylee Thompson on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, NE – Brylee Thompson, a local girl from Hershey, is preparing for one of the biggest nights of her life — her incoming Miss Rodeo Nebraska coronation on January 3 at Venue 304 in downtown North Platte.

Thompson, who will serve as the state’s rodeo ambassador over the coming year, calls the upcoming coronation her premier fundraiser, helping to fuel her travel around Nebraska and beyond. “I feel like I’ve been planning my coronation since I was a little girl,” Thompson said. “It’s so exciting that one night I get to have everyone together to support me for the next year, and raising all that money is just so helpful.”

As Miss Rodeo Nebraska, Thompson will travel extensively, representing the professional sport of rodeo, promoting events, engaging with fans, and advocating for agriculture. “I am constantly kept busy — whether I’m in the crowd, on a horse, clearing cattle, or signing autographs,” she explained. “I do my best to promote and answer questions anyone might have.”

Thompson’s journey began at age 10 when she entered her first rodeo queen pageant. Now 21, she has dedicated over a decade to the sport, describing rodeo as her life. “It’s my family, and it’s everything I want to represent,” she said.

The coronation will include a social hour and silent auction beginning at 5 p.m., dinner and crowning at 6:30, and a live auction with live music at 7:30. Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for children ages 4–6, and free for children 3 and under. Attendees can purchase tickets through Sherry Slichtemeier at 308-289-4033 or via email at <a>sharislick@gmail.com</a>, with payments accepted by check or through the Miss Rodeo Nebraska Association’s Venmo account.

One highlight of the evening will be the reveal of Thompson’s custom-made chaps, crafted by Francis Wilson of Hershey, which she will wear throughout her reign. “I’m excited not only to wear the chaps but also to represent him throughout my year,” she said.

Looking ahead, Thompson will immediately begin her year of travel following the coronation, attending events in Denver, Steamboat, Dallas, Rapid City, and Florida. At the conclusion of her year as Miss Rodeo Nebraska, she plans to compete in Las Vegas for Miss Rodeo America.

“I encourage everyone to come out, even if you’ve never attended a coronation,” Thompson said. “We don’t always get to have them this close, and I’m just so excited to be a local girl celebrating right here at home.”

🎙️Local Hershey Native Brylee Thompson Set for Incoming Miss Rodeo Nebraska Coronation

Listen to the Full Interview with Gary Person on our Kubota Podcast

North Platte, Neb. - As 2025 winds down, the North Platte Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development is celebrating a year of growth and success while looking forward to what’s ahead in 2026. Gary Person, Chamber president, joined the North Platte studio this week to share highlights from the past year and offer a glimpse into future projects.

Person began on a positive note, highlighting the upbeat mood in the community. “This is a beautiful time of the year, and everybody’s in a good mood,” he said. “We’ve had a really good year in 25. There’s an air of optimism going around, and that’s pretty good when you look at some of the challenges nationwide.”

The Chamber’s annual Shop North Platte holiday program was a standout success, with over 160,000 tickets entered through 47 local businesses. A top prize winner has come forward, with 25 additional “consolation” prizes still awaiting collection. Person emphasized the program’s message: supporting locally owned businesses keeps money circulating within the community.

Beyond the holidays, Person highlighted North Platte’s strong economic performance this year. While full statewide demographic and economic statistics won’t be available until February, early indicators show record-breaking retail sales, lodging activity, and construction. “The valuation continues to grow in the community, which helps push down the property tax rate,” Person said, noting that property taxes have dropped over 20% in recent years thanks to growth and legislative efforts.

Construction continues to be a major driver of local development. Person noted that 2025 will go down as the second-largest construction year in North Platte’s history, second only to last year’s record, largely due to the Sustainable Beef project. “The last five years have been the largest construction years in the city’s history,” he said, citing increased housing developments and industrial growth.

Looking ahead, Person hinted at major upcoming projects, particularly in technology-driven sectors like data and AI, which could bring significant investment to the region. These projects would require additional power generation, prompting collaboration with local public power providers to ensure sufficient capacity.

The Chamber is also closely monitoring workforce needs in the region. Following the recent closure of the Tyson plant in Lexington, Person encouraged participation in local job fairs to help absorb displaced workers and support the regional economy. “Labor’s been a key thing for everybody, and we want that workforce to stay in the region,” he said.

Other upcoming developments include expansion of the Industrial Rail Park in Hershey, progress on city and county comprehensive plans, and continued support for housing and business growth in the Twin Rivers Business Park. Person emphasized the importance of careful planning to balance industrial, residential, and sensitive land areas.

Person also acknowledged ongoing efforts to keep the community informed on broader economic issues, including monitoring the Union Pacific merger and hosting weekly legislative conference calls with local representatives. “Success breeds success,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of great momentum, and you want to ride that momentum for all it’s worth.”

As 2025 comes to a close, Person extended holiday wishes to the community while expressing optimism for the new year. “We’ve got a wonderful team—volunteers, businesses, city, county, schools—all on the same page, making North Platte and Lincoln County better. They’ve all deserved to have a very Merry Christmas.”

With continued growth, strong partnerships, and ambitious projects on the horizon, North Platte enters 2026 with optimism and momentum, poised for another successful year of community and economic development.

🎙️North Platte Chamber Reflects on a Strong 2025, Looks Ahead to 2026

Listen to the full interview with Caitlyn Jacobson and Leo Walz on our Kubota Podcast

A Logan County sixth grader is gaining hands-on farming experience through 4-H, using a wheat agronomy project to learn both the fieldwork and business side of agriculture.

Leo Walz, a fifth-year 4-H member, joined Nebraska Extension Educator Kaitlin Jacobson in the studio to talk about his project and what 4-H has meant to him so far.

Walz said joining 4-H felt natural, as it’s long been part of his family. “That’s where my mom and dad met,” he said. “So it kind of just came naturally. It’s a family thing.”

Over the years, Walz has explored a variety of projects. “My first two years, I showed cattle and then I did some shooting sports,” he said. “This last year, I did some baking projects and then this agronomy.”

When asked what he’s enjoyed most, Walz didn’t hesitate. “I liked showing cattle,” he said, adding that shooting sports has also been a favorite.

His current wheat agronomy project focuses on his family’s farm and a push toward more natural farming practices. “It involves our farm and everything we’re trying to do to get our farm back to not trying to use herbicides and chemicals,” Walz explained. “Kind of go in the natural route.”

That approach has come with challenges. “In today’s world, killing weeds is harder without chemicals,” Walz said. “So trying to keep the weeds down without chemicals is hard.”

Jacobson said projects like agronomy showcase 4-H’s “learn by doing” philosophy. “Agronomy is really just a prime example of the 4-H model,” she said. “4-Hers learn by doing.”

She explained that the project goes beyond fieldwork and includes detailed record-keeping. “He has a red binder with him, and that’s the record-keeping aspect,” Jacobson said. “You document all your expenses, what you make — all those things.”

Walz said much of that information came directly from his family’s farming operation. “Pretty much everything that my dad already has written down in the computers,” he said. “He was able to just give me that information right from his phone.”

Jacobson said that experience gives youth a realistic look at farming. “These are things that farmers have to do,” she said. “If a youth finds their spark in agriculture and wants to pursue being a farmer, this is great experience.”

Walz said the financial side of the project taught him a lot. “When we were doing the money aspect, like the breaking even stuff, I learned a lot about that,” he said.

Looking ahead, Walz plans to continue in 4-H. “This next year, I hope to do a couple more agronomy projects and some more wood and baking projects,” he said.

For youth thinking about joining 4-H, Walz offered simple advice: “Follow what you want to do and try your hardest.”

Jacobson said agronomy is just one of many project areas available. “The bottom line is you learn by doing,” she said. “It’s fun, and 4-Hers get life skills they can take with them into their adult life.”

4-H enrollment is currently open. Families can enroll online at v2.4honline.com, stop by the Nebraska Extension Office on West State Farm Road, or call 308-532-2683. Updates are also shared on the Lincoln Logan McPherson County 4-H Facebook page.

🎙️Logan County 4-Her Gains Real-World Experience Through Agronomy Project

Listen to the full interview with Dan Phelps on our Kubota Podcast&nbsp;

North Platte, NE – Travelers flying out of North Platte have reason to celebrate: early morning flights are returning to the schedule starting January 6, 2026. Dan Phelps of the North Platte Airport Authority shared details in a recent interview, highlighting what this means for the community and the airport’s ongoing development.

“This is exciting news for our travelers,” Phelps said. “The 6:15 a.m. flight is back, bringing us to the schedule we lost in 2023. It was very popular with the town, and we’ve been advocating for its return for a while.”

The early morning flight had been cut due to pilot shortages and limited aircraft availability following federal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The planes are back, pilots are back, and routes are starting to come online again. This early flight will help boost travel and bookings,” Phelps explained. Last year, the airport handled 16,500 boardings, down about 1,000 from 2024, primarily due to the absence of the early and late evening flights.

Phelps also emphasized how the schedule benefits travelers connecting through Denver International Airport. “Denver operates on a flight bank system with eight banks of flights throughout the day. If we get passengers there early, they can connect almost anywhere in the country and even internationally,” he said. “It’s especially beneficial for folks traveling west to places like Las Vegas or Phoenix.”

A potential mid-day flight may be added in April with the start of the golf season, he said, noting the growing importance of local golf tourism. Last year, TSA handled 660 golf bags through SkyWest flights alone, not including private aviation traffic.

Passenger Convenience and Holiday Travel


Early morning travelers will have a new perk as Einstein Bagels adjusts its hours, opening at 5 a.m. “Passengers can grab coffee, breakfast, and get checked in before their flight. Once our new terminal opens, this will be available even on the secure side,” Phelps said.

The airport is also managing ongoing construction and parking challenges during the busy holiday season. Phelps urged patience as temporary parking and lane adjustments are in place. Additionally, travelers flying with gifts should leave them unwrapped or have them easily accessible for TSA inspections. “If a gift is larger than a soup can, it must be opened for security checks,” he reminded.

Traffic Growth and Airline Industry Recovery


General aviation traffic has grown significantly, up 45% over last year. Phelps attributed the increase to private jet activity tied to local golf courses and a new fuel program by Trigo Dugan. “This traffic is great for the airport, generating landing fees and fuel revenue,” he said.

Commercial boardings are expected to rebound next year as well. “United Airlines is back to about 90% of pre-COVID levels, and we anticipate reaching 100% by this time next year. As more companies return to in-person work and travel, North Platte will continue to see growth,” Phelps added.

Several major projects are underway. The new terminal is about 60–65% complete, with interior framing and glass installation beginning soon. Phelps expects the terminal to be operational around June 2026, pending coordination with TSA for security system moves.

A federally funded large hangar project is also in progress, aimed at accommodating large jets and providing revenue through leasing. Additionally, Runway 12/30 will receive a 95% FAA grant for upgrades including LED lighting, drainage repairs, crack sealing, and concrete panel replacement.

General aviation hangars damaged by a microburst have been fully repaired with new doors, updated safety mechanisms, and electrical improvements. New hangar rates for 2026 have also been approved to align with comparable regional airports.

“The airport is active and growing along with our community,” Phelps said. “With North Platte’s strategic location between Omaha, Lincoln, and Denver, we’re a hub for travel and economic growth. These projects ensure the airport remains a valuable asset for the region.”

Phelps concluded by highlighting the community of local pilots, noting that approximately half of the airport’s 52 hangar tenants actively fly, contributing to a vibrant general aviation presence.

With early morning flights returning and significant infrastructure upgrades underway, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for travelers flying through North Platte.

🎙️North Platte Airport Authority Announces Return of Early Morning Flights, Updates on Projects and Traffic Growth

NORTH PLATTE — North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher joined the North Platte Post Tuesday morning to recap the final regular City Council meeting of 2025, highlighting key actions and updates for residents.

The meeting, held Monday evening, addressed routine city operations, land annexations, and a proposed commercial solar farm. Mayor Kelliher described the session as “short and efficient,” lasting roughly 15 minutes.

City Operations and Sanitation Updates
The council approved the purchase of two semi-tractor trailers for the city’s sanitation department from Floyd’s Trucking, at a cost of $252,879. These vehicles are used to transport collected trash to the landfill near Ogallala.

In addition, the council authorized a contract extension with local entrepreneur Ryan Kuhlman for the hauling and remanufacturing of yard and tree waste from the city transfer station. Mayor Kelliher said the arrangement not only supports a local business but also turns a former city expense into a modest revenue stream.

Land Annexation
Council members adopted Ordinance 4242, annexing 11 government-owned parcels of land into North Platte’s city limits. Mayor Kelliher explained this action is part of an ongoing effort to unify city boundaries and fill small gaps in the city’s annexation map. 

“It’s all government-owned property, so no one is objecting,” he noted.

Infrastructure Financing
The council also approved a resolution authorizing a $317,319.83 warrant payment to Paulsen Inc. for paving work on area streets. Mayor Kelliher praised the company’s work, saying the payment reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining quality infrastructure.

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