Governor Ricketts Announces National Search for Roads Director

February 20, 2015 Leave a comment


Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced a national search for a permanent Director to lead the Nebraska Department of Roads. This announcement comes at the conclusion of three successful national searches for innovative and transformational leadership to lead the Departments of Corrections, Economic Development and Health and Human Services.

 

The search for a new Director of the Nebraska Department of Roads will follow a similar process to previous searches. With statewide financial support, the Greater Omaha Chamber Foundation has hired a search firm to conduct the search. Finalists identified by the firm will be forwarded to Governor Ricketts and his Chief of Staff, Matt Miltenberger, for interviews.

 

Ted Ford Webb of Ford Webb Associates, Inc. based in Concord, Massachusetts will assist with the search. Webb previously assisted with the successful searches that identified Scott Frakes to lead the Nebraska Department of Corrections and Courtney Phillips to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

 

“After successful national searches to lead key state agencies, it made sense to utilize a similar approach with the Department of Roads,” said Governor Pete Ricketts. “Building 21st-century infrastructure with fiscally-responsible funding mechanisms is critical for our state’s future. Forward-thinking leadership for the department can help accomplish these goals.”

 

Donors who contribute to the search process will be disclosed after the conclusion of the search.

 

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New Officers for Burt County Economic Development Corporation

February 19, 2015 Leave a comment


The officers for 2015 are as follows:

President – Sarah Chatt, Tekamah

Vice President – Pam Thomson, Lyons

Secretary/Treasurer – John Werner, Oakland

 

“We will continue to focus our efforts in 2015 in three areas – business development, community development, and tourism,” stated Patty Plugge, Executive Director.

 

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Healthy Communities Initiative (HCI) Opposes LB330

February 19, 2015 Leave a comment


Healthy Communities Initiative (HCI), a substance abuse prevention coalition, is strongly opposed to LB330 introduced, at the request of the Liquor Control Commission, by Senator Tyson Larson. This bill, among other items, eliminates mandated off and on-sale alcohol business hours, taxes “hard cider” at the lower rate reserved for beer, allows sale of confiscated alcohol by state liquor regulators, and would allow “powdered” alcohol to be sold.

The changes introduced by Sen. Larson are those which research has found exacerbate alcohol abuse in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds the cost of excessive alcohol consumption in the United States reached $223.5 billion dollars by 2006. Three-quarters of that cost, or approximately $165 billion, was related to binge drinking. The costs were attributed to loss in workplace productivity, health care expense, and automobile crashes due to impaired driving. Costs not studied include pain and suffering experienced by the excessive drinker, their friends and family, and their victims. Excessive alcohol consumption affects every citizen by increasing health care costs, costs associated with both intentional injuries (domestic violence, sexual assault, and firearms), unintentional injuries (falls, burns, drowning), unintended pregnancy, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and alcohol poisoning.

The Community Preventive Services Task Force has recommended evidence-based strategies to prevent excessive drinking. Among the best practice strategies: increasing alcohol excise taxes, which Sen. Larson’s bill contradicts by seeking to lower the tax on “hard cider” beverages. Reducing the days and hours of alcohol sales has also been found to reduce excessive alcohol consumption and the associated social and health costs. Again, Sen. Larson’s bill is contrary to evidence based research and practice.

Powdered alcohol can be used by snorting, and drank after being mixed with water, or ingested in its powdered form. Powdered alcohol is easy to transport, even in large quantities. Powdered alcohol is relatively new, and not even fully marketed throughout the United States. Research on this, the potential physical harms this product may cause, is still incomplete.

People, adults and children both, are our most precious community resource. Sen. Larson’s bill, again noting introduction at the request of the Liquor Control Commission, devalues our resources and demonstrates disrespect of the people of the State of Nebraska.

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Oakland Garden Club News

February 18, 2015 Leave a comment


 

 

THURSDAY,  FEBRUARY, 12 2014 OAKLAND GARDEN CLUB

Oakland Garden Club did not meet in January because of bad weather.

Thirteen members of the Oakland Garden Club met in the Rosen room at the Oakland auditorium at 2:00 p.m., on February 12, the second Thursday of the month, their regularly scheduled meeting time and place.

 

Sandra Anderson         Marge Elsasser            Cathi McMurtry        JoAnn Petersom

Marie Daubert               Lela Heineman            LaVerne Osterndoff    Lois Schneekloth

Julie Easton                 Betty Homes              Geraldine Peterson      Debbie Rosenboom

Audrey Unwin

 

Hostesses Lela Heineman and Julie Easton decorated with valentine napkins, two miniature rose plants, valentine candies and served a cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Members decided to repeat their 2014 Simplicity theme: Lunches will be very simple with one decoration and one candy or nuts.

 

Members gave pledge to the American flag and read the Garden Club Creed in their handbooks. Each member answered roll call by telling or estimating how many houseplants she has in her house. With the number ranging from two to at least one hundred, at the end, Lela Heineman said we must have the cleanest air in the country. Geraldine Peterson reported that she and Julie had arranged to send gifts to members who’d had surgery: a poinsettia to Vernelle Nelson, flowers to Cathi McMurtry, and fruit plate to Sue Beckner. The thank you’s to the Club were read.

 

Members decided to skip reading the notes Audrey took at the October meeting. Audrey gave the balance in the treasury as $3094.62 with no outstanding bills. Cathi reported that Denise Gilliland would like to post the Garden Club minutes on her Katcountryhub@gmail.com.Members agreed it would be good to have them on line as well as in the local paper.

 

With election of officers, Geraldine Peterson, Co-President, announced that she would be unable to serve again. Julie Easton, also Co-President, would serve again with another, and Debbie Rosenboom agreed to serve with her as Co-President. Audrey Unwin and Cathi McMurtry agreed to serve again as Treasurer and Secretary. Lela Heineman agreed to act as Historian, and Geraldine Peterson to act as Cheerer [sender of cards, notices, etc.] Geraldine Peterson and Lois Schneekloth agreed to act as Callers. Members voted to approve choices made.

 

Lela Heineman asked if we would consider moving meeting times to evenings or moving some to evenings After discussion on how many meetings people already had, no change was made. Then Lela Heineman moved and Geraldine Peterson seconded that we offer Associate membership of Garden Club for people interested in helping with flower beds without these members having responsibility for dues or acting as a hostess. The motion passed. Audrey Unwin moved and Sandra Anderson seconded that Garden Club not meet in January. The motion passed with only one dissent. Lela Heineman moved and Audrey Unwin seconded that the Garden Club purchase a can of coffee and keep on site for meetings. Sandra Anderson agreed to come early to meetings to make coffee and set up tables and chairs.

 

After members set up schedule of meeting lessons and presenters, roll calls, and hostesses for the year, Lela Heineman agreed to make the Garden Club book for the 2015 year.

 

Marie Daubert read a parody poem “Night Before Taxes.”

 

 

 

 

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY, 12 2014 OAKLAND GARDEN CLUB

 

 

Lela Heineman gave a review of Winter Sowing. Plant in Jan., Feb., or March. This works best in zones 5 or 6. Plant perennials or very hardy annuals.

 

For containers use milk jugs, large soda bottles, dessert or fast food bowls, clear cake or cottage cheese containers, etc. but tops must be clear or translucent to let in daylight. Add holes to the sides, tops and bottoms for air circulation and drainage. If bottom holes are too big, line with coffee filters, newspaper, etc. Tops should be at least 2 inches above soil to allow for seedling growth. If using milk jugs, cut in middle halfway or more around to bend back to plant and tape back together with duct or packing tape when finished. Also tape lids on when finished. Label clearly on bottom or on markers placed inside as sun will bleach writing off visible markers.

 

Put potting soil or seed starting mix in container, about two to three inches deep, moisten soil, and sow seeds, putting light cover of soil over them. Attach lids and place containers outside. Keep containers moist. As weather warms and seeds germinate, increase ventilation, finally removing lids. Transplant seedlings into garden with no hardening off needed.

 

The list of perennials to sow is almost endless, even shrubs, trees, and vines, although trees and shrubs may require long dormancy over a year to germinate.

 

At lunch time, as valentine presents, Julie Easton set out new packets of flower seeds for members to take home.

 

 

Cathi McMurtry, Secretary

 

 

 

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Wind Chill Advisory

February 17, 2015 Leave a comment


MONONA-HARRISON-SHELBY-POTTAWATTAMIE-MILLS-MONTGOMERY-FREMONT- PAGE-KNOX-CEDAR-THURSTON-WAYNE-BURT- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF…ONAWA…MAPLETON…MISSOURI VALLEY… WOODBINE…LOGAN…DUNLAP…HARLAN…COUNCIL BLUFFS…GLENWOOD… RED OAK…SIDNEY…HAMBURG…TABOR…FARRAGUT…CLARINDA… SHENANDOAH…CREIGHTON…BLOOMFIELD…CROFTON…WAUSA… VERDIGRE…NIOBRARA…HARTINGTON…LAUREL…RANDOLPH… COLERIDGE…PENDER…MACY…WALTHILL…WINNEBAGO…WAYNE… TEKAMAH…OAKLAND…LYONS…DECATUR 315 PM CST TUE FEB 17 2015 …WIND CHILL ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 AM TO 10 AM CST WEDNESDAY… THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN OMAHA/VALLEY HAS ISSUED A WIND CHILL ADVISORY…WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 4 AM TO 10 AM CST WEDNESDAY. * WINDS…NORTHWEST WINDS MAINLY IN THE 15 TO 25 MPH RANGE. * WIND CHILL VALUES…REACHING AROUND 20 BELOW ZERO LATE TONIGHT AND INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… A WIND CHILL ADVISORY MEANS THAT THE COMBINATION OF WINDS AND COLD TEMPERATURES WILL GENERATE LOW WIND CHILLS. THIS WILL RESULT IN FROST BITE AND COULD LEAD TO HYPOTHERMIA IF PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN. IF YOU MUST VENTURE OUTDOORS…MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND GLOVES.

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The Fourth Annual Burt County Fair Kick-off Being Held Soon

February 17, 2015 Leave a comment


The Burt County Fair is a yearly attraction that brings people together from all over the county and beyond, enjoying all of the events and entertainment, along with reminiscing of years past. Many people attend, bringing the sense of family to the weekend.

Four years ago, the Burt County Fair Kick-off began, providing an evening of food and entertainment for everyone, with proceeds providing more events and also improving the fairgrounds. Forever in Blue Jeans in the theme for this year’s kick-off.

This year’s event is being held in Tekamah at the auditorium, Saturday February 28th. “We have a great evening planned for all to enjoy,” stated David Pearson. “We wanted to have it in Lyons this year, but the auditorium is being remodeled.” 10420097_1389895261318388_7428833958375296751_nHe is the interim fair manager for 2015, replacing long-time manager Norm Johnson. “Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with a meal following at 6:30 p.m.” David said. The meal this year will be a choice of Husker chops or New York Strips instead of prime rib served previous years. “Mark Blackford has offered to prepare the Husker chops and New York Strips. Donna Preston will cater the rest of the meal,” David stated.

There will also be the traditional silent auction, with many items to bid on. Following the meal, there will be a live auction. “There will be a great deal for everyone to bid on. There will also be a bred heifer again this year,” David said.

Tables were sold this year and will be auctioned off for next year’s kick-off. “Those that purchased the tables will be waited on during the evening until the entertainment begins,” David stated.

This year’s entertainment is also different from previous years. “Wayne Francis, a comedian and ventriloquist will entertain the crowd. He has a life size dummy instead of the usual shorter one, David said. “Disc Jockey Bill Skinner will follow, providing music and dancing for the rest of the evening.”

There are a limited number of tickets left, so hurry and pick up one today!

“Thanks to everyone for supporting the Burt County Fair,” David said.

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Governor Ricketts’ Presidents Day Statement

February 16, 2015 Leave a comment


“Today marks the 136th year Americans commemorate Presidents Day to honor the birthday of our first President, George Washington.  February is also the birth month of Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan.  Let us pause today to remember those who guided our country through times of triumph and adversity.  As members of our nation’s 37th state, Nebraskans can be proud of America’s heritage and leaders.”

 

Governor Pete Ricketts

Governor Pete Ricketts

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Reminder: Valentine’s Celebration at Swedish Heritage Center

February 13, 2015 Leave a comment


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Brooks Larson Receives Award

February 11, 2015 Leave a comment


Patty Plugge, Executive Director, awarding Brooks Larson, First National Bank Northeast in Lyons, for serving as President in 2015 for Burt County Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC). BCEDC is a not-for profit, public/private partnership whose mission is to responsibly develop and expand the economy and enhance the quality of life in Burt County. Photo Courtesy of Patty Plugge.

Patty Plugge, Executive Director, awarding Brooks Larson, First National
Bank Northeast in Lyons, for serving as President in 2015 for Burt County
Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC). BCEDC is a not-for profit,
public/private partnership whose mission is to responsibly develop and
expand the economy and enhance the quality of life in Burt County.
Photo Courtesy of Patty Plugge.

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Village of Decatur Meeting Agenda

February 11, 2015 Leave a comment


VILLAGE OF DECATUR

REGULAR BOARD MEETING AGENDA

February 12, 2015
4:30 P.M. CITY HALL

 

NOTE: Everyone must use the microphones at the table. The audience must be quiet during the meeting. If you want to ask a question and you are not on the Agenda, you must raise your hand, get permission from the Chairman, and come to the microphone before speaking. If you are on the Agenda the same rule applies.

 

THE VILLAGE BOARD HAS THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE AGENDA AT THE PUBLIC MEETING WHEN CONVENED. MEETING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

 

1)         Meeting Called to Order by Chairman Kellogg

Roll Call: Bolln _____, Kellogg_____, Richards ______, Tolby _____, Wolf

 

2)        Agenda and minutes of the previous month’s meeting received:

Roll Call: Bolln _____, Kellogg_____, Richards ______, Tolby _____, Wolf____

 

3)        Approval and/or correction and suspended reading of the previous month minutes.

           Roll Call: Bolln _____, Kellogg____, Richards ______, Tolby _____, Wolf____
4)        EXCUSE BOARD MEMBERS NOT ATTENDING THE MEETING:

 

Roll Call: Bolln _____, Kellogg____, Richards ______, Tolby _____, Wolf____

 

5)         REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND OR COMMITTEES:

 

1)         Police: Monthly Report
A. Police applications

2)         Lights: Monthly Report
A. 14th & 15th Street Light Proposal-Rev. Gary Fugman

 

3)         Water & Sewer: Monthly Report
4)         Parks: Monthly Report- Income of $0.00
5)         Streets: Monthly Report
6)          Recycling Report-

 

6)        OLD BUSINESS

7)        NEW BUSINESS

 

  1. Resolution #141 Check signer2. Snowmobile in private yards- Bob Hadcock

    3. Community Survey

    4. Hansen Pest Control- Fogging for mosquitoes

 

8)        CORRESPONDENCE

 

 

9)         APPROPRIATIONS AND CONSIDERATION OF THE CLAIMS:

 

1) Claims preapproved by
2) Motion to Approve the Claims as Submitted

 

________________2nd_________________

 

 

Roll Call: Bolln _____, Kellogg _____, Richards _____, Tolby _____, Wolf _____

 

Are there any questions from the audience?

 

 

10)       MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING

 

 

_______________2nd________________

Adjournment Time:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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