Last night, the North Platte Area Chamber & Development Corporation held its annual meeting, an evening that Gary Person, President and CEO, described as “absolutely incredible.” With legendary Nebraska Huskers volleyball coach, John Cook, kicking off the event, the atmosphere was electric.
“To have John Cook here was incredible,” Person said. “The energy in that place was just… nobody will ever forget it. Even the most avid Husker fans really don’t understand his story until they hear his insights. He shared so many life lessons that you can apply not only to sports but to real life.”
Coach Cook’s talk emphasized the importance of “finding your why,” a theme that resonated strongly with Person. “He really nailed it. All of us need to reflect on why we’re doing what we’re doing in life — why the Chamber Development Corporation exists, why our companies exist, why we do what we do every day. It’s something you should answer each day: Why do I love what I’m doing? If you’re unhappy, why are you doing it? It really gave everyone a chance to reflect.”
The event, held at the Fox Theater and followed by the annual meeting at Venue 304, drew a sellout crowd of 600 people. After Cook’s presentation, Person and the Chamber recognized several key leaders and contributors in the community. Megan McGowan completed her term as board chair, and Tanner Patera and Hans Julius assumed the roles of chair and vice-chair, respectively.
Several individuals and businesses were honored:
- Community Impact Award: Jeff and Shea Caldwell, Whitetail Management, recognized for their work revitalizing downtown North Platte.
- Business CEO of the Year: Ivan Mitchell, Great Plains Health, celebrating 50 years of service.
- Professional of the Year: Sheriff Jerome Kramer, 45 years in law enforcement, including 20 years as elected sheriff.
- Economic Development Partner of the Year: Walmart Corporation, supporting nearly 2,000 jobs and philanthropic efforts in North Platte and Lincoln County.
- Housing Developers of the Year: The Upper Floor, MAD Development, creating new lofts downtown.
- Entrepreneurs of the Year: Josh and Caitlin Spurley, Hyde Park Apparel, a business that turned a dream into a thriving full-time enterprise.
- Business of the Year: Chick-fil-A, chosen for its unique presence along a 400-mile stretch of I-80 and commitment to community engagement.
Chief Industries, a Grand Island-based, family-owned company, was recognized for its significant contributions to North Platte. “They really embraced North Platte,” Person said. “They helped build nine speculative commercial buildings at our Twin River Business Park, which are now all full. They also stepped forward to address housing challenges with affordable solutions, including modular homes, multifamily units, and senior housing, as well as a new mobile home park on East Phillip Avenue. Their efforts are helping the community grow and thrive.”
The Chamber also awarded its Chamber Legacy Award to Larry and Paula Stobbs, recognizing decades of service and dedication to the community, including contributions to the Nebraska Teen Rodeo and Miss Rodeo America events.
Reflecting on the evening and the city’s progress, Person said, “If you look at the last four or five years, this community has performed like a champion. We’ve shattered economic records, redeveloped downtown, enhanced the mall, and expanded new industry. Projects like the industrial rail park near Hershey, the new rec center, and partnerships with employers like Sustainable Beef are transforming North Platte. The energy is incredible, and even longtime residents recognize the positive momentum.”
Person credited collaboration as a key factor in North Platte’s success. “The Chamber brings everyone together — public and private partners, city, county, schools, public power — and when everyone works together, incredible things happen. Strong leadership from our public officials, political courage, and personal investment make a real difference.”
As the evening concluded, Person reiterated the lasting impact of Coach Cook’s message: “Never just be satisfied with being a champion. Celebrate your success, but wake up every day ready to make a difference. That’s the spirit the Chamber Development Corporation brings to North Platte.”