By Allison Peck
Listen to the full interview with Jeff Smeltzer on our Kubota Podcast
North Platte, Neb. - Mid-Plains Community College is offering a variety of community classes in the coming weeks, ranging from hands-on creative workshops to business development and wellness sessions.
Jeff Smeltzer, who coordinates community education efforts, said Valentine’s Day marks the start of two beginner-friendly crafting opportunities.
Basics of Knitting and Learning to Crochet begin Feb. 14 at Prairie Hand Knits on South Dewey in North Platte. Each course runs for four weeks and costs $35.
“They’re partnering with us to do a knitting and crochet class,” Smeltzer said. “It just blows my mind what people can do with that.”
The classes are designed for beginners and offer a chance for couples, friends or individuals to learn a new skill together.
On Feb. 17, the college will host Podcast Basics 101, a lunch-and-learn session from noon to 1 p.m. Participants will receive a meal while learning how to start and develop a podcast.
“You get a meal and you learn how to be a podcaster,” Smeltzer said. “You couldn’t have asked for anything better.”
The session will cover foundational steps for launching a podcast, including equipment basics and content development. Organizers say it can serve as a starting point for those interested in content creation, marketing or even a future career in media.
Later that same day, from 5 to 8 p.m., the college will offer Jumpstart Your Business Journey. The workshop, led by Darren Dale, is aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch their own businesses.
“If you’re looking to become an entrepreneur and get a business started, he can give you some tips and pointers on how to make a successful jump into the business,” Smeltzer said.
Looking ahead to March, Mid-Plains will offer a three-part wellness series titled Beyond Box Breathing. The sessions are scheduled for March 9, 16 and 23, with a cost of $35 for all three classes.
The course will be led by trauma-informed somatic breath facilitators John and Jenny Bonta. According to course materials, participants will “embark on a three-week journey to unlock the transformative power of your breath and its impact on your health.”
Smeltzer said the class focuses on using breathing techniques to promote relaxation and improve overall well-being.
Registration is open for all upcoming classes. Those interested can contact Smeltzer at 308-535-3687 for more information or to sign up.