Top News Stories
Downtown lights up
The overhead festoon lights on Dewey St. were switched on Thursday, highlighting the $2.9 million renovation that has brought new energy to downtown.
Annual Kevin Kennedy 5K hero race set Saturday
The late Kevin Kennedy was a huge supporter of the CASA program (Court Appointed Special Advocates) as a board member and through financial donations.
Virus risk: Slight uptick
Although there is just one COVID-19 patient in Great Plains Health hospital in North Platte, the west central health department’s “risk dial” inched upward Thursday.
Oak & William streets to close for repairs
Steele’s Construction will be repairing the intersection of Oak Street and William Avenue and closing Oak Street from Reid Avenue south to Francis Street at 6:30 a.m. Monday, April 12.
Gov: Recent developments make North Platte showcase community
When Gov. Pete Ricketts declared April 5-9 as Community Development Week in Nebraska, he also named North Platte as the recipient of “Governor’s Showcase Community Award” for outstanding achievements in economic development and the impactful use of state and federal funds.
North Platte man charged in shooting
A North Platte man was charged Wednesday with first-degree assault after allegedly shooting another man in the leg the day before.
Council approves blighted, substandard designation for redevelopment
After nearly 90 minutes of public testimony Tuesday, the city council unanimously approved a blighted designation for 374 acres on the east side of the city.
Council approves new zoning category for mall renovation

On Tuesday night, the city council unanimously approved a new “mixed use” zone at the Platte River Mall, so the new property owners can start construction in the middle of what is now the main parking lot.
Police reports: Alleged meth dealers busted
Two suspected meth dealers were arrested in North Platte during the weekend after police were called in for other reasons.
Residents: No need for routine water tests

If you receive something in the mail that encourages you to have your water tested this spring, it’s okay to be skeptical.
Farmer Labor Herald provides in-depth picture of area in 1924
Although much of the United States was enjoying an economic boom after World War I, things were not good down on the farm.
State/Regional News
More than 300 high school students earn community college honor cords
Mid-Plains Community College courses have reached hundreds of high schools in the area, and to honor those students, the college will award 318 honor cords to seniors to wear at their graduation ceremonies.
Two dead in rural Gage County
In an apparent murder-suicide, the Nebraska State Patrol and Gage County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the deaths of a man and woman who were found dead Tuesday morning near Blue Springs.
Legislature: Financial assistance for assault patients
Individuals who have experienced domestic or sexual violence could avoid a lengthy and expensive reimbursement process under a bill advanced from general file April 6.
Scam warning: COVID-19 vaccine cards
The FBI Omaha Field Office is warning communities of a COVID-19 scam that targets people who have received a COVID vaccination.
Central board votes to proceed with consolidation study
The Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District’s board of directors voted Monday to proceed to Phase 2 of a study of potential consolidation with the Dawson Public Power District.
Banks: Safeguarding older Nebraskans from financial scams
A new state law aims to stop scams that target the financial assets of older Nebraskans.