The Post Podcast

Allison Peck talks with MPCC President Ryan Purdy and Marketing and Public Relations Director Daniel Stinman following Wednesday night's Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors meeting.

The conversation covers the college's $63.5 million 2026-27 budget, the $5.79 million property tax request, more than $22.7 million in unused budget authority and the addition of men's and women's wrestling at North Platte Community College.

Purdy explains why wrestling was chosen, how the program fits into MPCC's enrollment strategy and what will happen at the former Osgood Elementary building while Trucks and Tiaras continues operating in part of the facility.

The interview also covers the North Campus Student Activity Center renovation, major construction projects, the possibility of Nebraska community colleges eventually offering bachelor's degrees and the recent 100th anniversary celebration at McCook Community College.

Melissa Edmonds, executive director of the Ogallala YMCA, joins Allison Peck to talk about everything happening at the Y this fall.

Flag football is underway with about 65 kids participating, fall fitness classes are back, and Shelby has officially become the YMCA's newest personal trainer. Edmonds also discusses possible new classes, including restorative yoga and a potential Mommy and Me workout.

Plus, the YMCA has revamped its Rugrats program through a partnership with the Ogallala Public Library, the first Daddy-Daughter Dance is coming October 17, and the after-school program is adding monthly family nights.

Edmonds also explains how the community can help support the YMCA's after-school program through food and monetary donations.

What started with two brothers collecting rocks and artifacts has grown into one of Ogallala’s most unique attractions — a gallery that draws visitors from across the country and beyond, and has even been the subject of documentary film.

Allison Peck talks with Petrified Wood & Art Gallery board president Mike Keith and board member Kerri Anderson about the Kenfield brothers, the incredible collection they left behind, why people continue to seek out the gallery, and the effort to keep that legacy alive in Ogallala.

They also discuss the gallery’s annual “Bringing History to Life” fundraiser, plans to revitalize the membership program, support for local high school artists, the gallery’s private event space, and some of the unique auction items available October 24.

City Manager Tell Jensen joins Allison Peck to recap Tuesday night's City Council meeting and the approval of the city's 2026-27 budget.

Jensen discusses the city's lower property tax levy, the roughly $1.917 million property tax request, capital improvement spending, street repairs, wastewater treatment plant improvements and upcoming airport projects.

He also explains the city's new mobile food vendor ordinance, including the $35 annual permit and January 1, 2027 implementation date, and provides an update on the search for a fixed-base operator at the Ogallala Municipal Airport.

Allison Peck talks with Women's Resource Center Executive Director Linda Logsdon and Client Services Director Tracy Schaub about the organization's 27th Annual Fundraising Celebration and Banquet happening Thursday in North Platte. They discuss the services offered by the center, the needs they're seeing among local families, the organization's expansion into Lexington, and the client stories that will be shared during this year's event. They also preview keynote speaker Keith Ferrin, the catered meal from Ole's in Paxton and the local youth helping serve.

Allison Peck sits down with North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher to recap the Sept. 15 City Council meeting. They discuss the newly approved bicycle and e-bike ordinance, the city’s 2026–27 budget and reduced property tax levy, employee salary schedules, user fees, airport funding, upcoming development and paving projects. Kelliher also explains what residents should know about the new bicycle regulations and what changes could be considered in the months ahead.

Get to know Hayden Coker, Eagle Media’s new sports director and production manager. Coker is the new voice of the North Platte High Bulldogs and will be covering sports throughout the area. Originally from Alabama, he shares his journey into sports broadcasting, his move to Nebraska, his love for football and basketball, and what he hopes to bring to local athletes and fans.

St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in North Platte is getting ready for its annual Block Party this weekend. Allison Peck talks with Father Jonathan Sorenson and Maddie Krebs about two days of food, live music, games, bounce houses, raffles and community fellowship.

Saturday night is geared more toward adults, with a nacho bar, beer garden, live music from Kim Baxter and the Husker game on TV. Sunday brings family activities, a meal, bake sale, bounce houses and more.

The event is open to everyone, whether you’re a member of St. Pat’s or not.

Keith County Commissioner Lane Anderson joins Allison Peck for an update on what's happening around the county. Anderson discusses the newly adopted Prairie Dog Management Plan, the county budget, road and equipment needs, planning and zoning changes and a recent juvenile diversion fund transfer.

Anderson also gives an update on efforts to advocate for Lake McConaughy, which remains at about 20% capacity. He discusses the potential impact on the Keith County economy, irrigation decisions, water needs at the Gerald Gentleman Station and his upcoming meeting with U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts.

Elizabeth Thayer with People's Health and Betsy Jurgensen with the West Central District Health Department join Allison Peck to discuss the upcoming Community Health and Wellness Event in North Platte. They explain how the event can help adults connect with primary care providers, vaccines, insurance resources, preventive screenings and other health services. The event is September 22 at First Evangelical Lutheran Church, with sessions from 6 to 8 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m.