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September 29, 2014 Leave a comment
Looking forward to Main Street Coffee Hour in Oakland! Monday, September 29th, 12-6 p.m. “We all have stories to share!”
The event will take place across the street from the drug store, in the area of Danny Hanna’s barber shop and the old Corner Coffee Shop. Bring friends and family and enjoy some lively conversation!
September 26, 2014 Leave a comment
Lyons-Decatur Northeast Homecoming candidates are: Front – Dylan Hardeman and Chaz Webb Back-Darcey Simonsen, Bailey Beaumont, Victoria Maslonka, Aaron Williams, Kayci Kramer, Jacob Dolezal, Morgan Olson and Chevy Hennemen. Photo Credit/Pat Sharp.
September 19, 2014 Leave a comment
There is no better place to enjoy the fall season than Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch. Tomorrow, September 20th is the opening day at the pumpkin patch, located two miles north of Oakland on highway 77 at Mark and Terry Wallerstedt’s.
Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch began seven years ago, hosting barn dances and selling some pumpkins. Since then, there has been much more added, providing visitors with endless fun.
“The barn has been remodeled. Josh (their son) did the work with some of his friends, along with repairing the roof,” Terry said. “We also added a childhood grocery store area this year.”
There is another new attraction that those considering marriage may want to look into. “We have a new wedding area that couples can book for their wedding,” Terry stated.
There are many other attractions for those of all ages. “There are pedal go karts, trikes, dress up barn, zip line, jumping pillow, animals and bon fire pits,” Terry said.
Terry has some special events planned to provide even more entertainment. “On October 11th there will be a barn dance. I am also looking into having a magician come, but am not sure of the date yet,” Terry stated.
The hours of operation are Fridays from 12:30-6:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30-8:00 p.m.
“We also accept reservations during the week for private birthday parties or school parties,” Terry said.
To make a reservation, or for further information, call Terry at 402-685-5409 or 402-380-1730.
A new addition is the wedding area at Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch. Photo Courtesy of Terry Wallerstedt.
This old pickup sits at the pumpkin patch in front of one of the buildings. Photo Courtesy of Terry Wallerstedt.
Terry is always happy to greet all of the visitors at Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
September 17, 2014 Leave a comment
The City of Oakland’s new city clerk is Katie Brehmer, left. Rosa Schmidt, Head Library Director, also works part-time in the city office. Stop in and welcome Katie aboard and tell the ladies hi! Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
September 16, 2014 Leave a comment
Lyons Police Department Police Report for August 2014
Mileage: 1,246
Fuel: 69.25
Citations: Unlicensed vehicle, 3
Correctional: Expired plates 2, head light violation 2, no insurance card 1, taillight 1
Warnings: Careless driving 1, failure to signal 4, stop sign 3, speeding 5
Dogs: Dogs at large 11, dogs barking 3, dogs not fed or watered 2, pit bull at large 4, mean dog (barking and growling) 2. Results: 7 dogs taken to Red Barn, 2 citations unlicensed dog, 1 citation dog at large.
Calls: Civil dispute 3, prowler 1, intruder into home 2, 911 hang-up 2, possible assault 1, emergency protective custody 1, vehicle reckless driving 2, theft 3, call for service 6, illegal burning 1, criminal mischief 2, harassment 1, loud noise complaint 1, goose trying to enter bar 1, too much car and truck noise early in morning 1, accident 2.
Assisted Burt County Sheriff: 3
Assisted Oakland Police: 2
Arrests:1 Burt County Warrant.
Received Assistance From: Nebraska State Patrol 1, Burt County Sheriff 2, Oakland P.D. 2.
Car Searches: 6
September 4, 2014 Leave a comment
Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch, located two miles north of Oakland, will be up and running soon, literally.
“On Saturday, September 13th we are hosting a Punkin Run,” stated Terry Wallerstedt, owner of Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch.
There will be two runs, the 5K begins at 9:30 a.m. and a one mile that starts at 10:00 a.m. There is an entry fee of $30 to participate in the 5K and $18 for the mile. There aren’t any age groups, and entrants don’t have to run. “They can run or crawl if they want to,” Terry said.
There will be prizes given for contestants in each division. “First, second and third place will receive medals,” Terry stated.
One third of the proceeds will benefit the BackPack Program. “Food is provided to the school for children whom qualify to take home for the weekend. 55 kids were served last year during the school year,” Terry said.
Those competing will also receive a free pass to the pumpkin patch. For family and fans of those racing, the fee is $5.25. The pumpkin patch will be open from 9:00-1:30 p.m. on race day.
If you wish to register online, go to Active.com and you will also receive a free dri-fit t-shirt.
Harvest Moon Pumpkin Patch. Both photos credit of Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
August 28, 2014 Leave a comment
City of Oakland employee Bryan Johnson is putting up new Swedish signs in Oakland. Mike Francis (not visible) another city employee, is guiding and driving the vehicle. The signs were the result of a FOOF grant (Friends of Oakland Foundations) and were made at CBS Signs Inc. out of Lincoln. Former Oaklander, Don Denton, is the manager of CBS Signs and delivered them to Oakland. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
August 22, 2014 Leave a comment
If you have a love of hunting and don’t know where to go Brian Johnson can show you the way.
Brian is a resident of West Point, NE and owns/operates Brian’s Big Game Guided Tours. Being an avid hunter, he began taking friends and family on hunting trips to help them out. His family and friends spread the word, thus leading him to create his business. Brian provides guided tours available in Northeast Nebraska, Southeast South Dakota and some parts of Western Iowa. “I typically like to stay within driving distance so that we can keep costs down,” Brian stated. “There are so many great places in the area that you really don’t need to travel far to have a great experience.”
Most of the time, the tours stay in Northeast Nebraska and Southeast South Dakota. “If there is a location that a customer wants to visit, or has heard about, we are always willing to give it a try,” Brian said.
Although Brian does love to fish, most of the tours provided are hunting. “Typically, people need a little more guidance when it comes to hunting. I think it’s more intimidating for amateur sportsmen and thus, they like more direction,” Brian stated. “There is also an obvious safety element involved and having an experienced guide is always a good thing.”
If someone wants a guide for fishing, Brian is happy to accommodate that as well. “I have been on many trips to Minnesota and South Dakota for fishing and would always be happy to lead someone there,” Brian said.
Brian has hunted almost everything. “I am not sure anything beats a good deer hunt. The weather is usually nice and cool and I love the challenge of tracking down a big buck,” Brian stated. “I know if I miss the shot, I may not get another one.”
Brian also hunts pheasants and ducks, appreciating the challenge of hitting a flying object. “One thing I love to do that many people probably haven’t is hunting prairie dogs,” Brian said. “There is no limit to the amount you can hunt in South Dakota and it’s a great test of your marksmanship.”
Brian’s zest for hunting came from his father, who has since passed away. He enjoyed hunting with him during his childhood, learning a great deal about the sport from him. “It was the one area that kept us connected in my youth and even in his older years,” Brian stated. “The bonding that can take place on a hunting trip, whether it be short or long, is unmatched.”
Even if one has never tried hunting, Brian suggests they try it at least once. “My guess is that they will be hooked once they do,” Brian said.
With technology ever evolving, Brian is concerned that it is hurting our society. “We are far too reliant on it and our survival skills are dwindling because of it,” Brian stated. “Too many family nights are spent around a TV instead of a campfire. We talk through text and e-mail instead of on a fishing dock.”
Brian has a suggestion for everyone, whether you are already an avid outdoor person or not. “Whether it’s hunting or fishing or anything else outdoors, get outdoors!” Brian said. “Whether it is a family member, spouse or a good friend, get outside and spend some time together. You might be surprised what you learn.”
To set up your weekend hunt, email BJisOk5@gmail.com.
“Set up your weekend hunt for fall before it’s too late,” Brian stated.
Brian Johnson’s dog, Gunner, hunts with Brian. Photo Courtesy of Brian Johnson.
August 21, 2014 2 Comments
Author Mary Connealy of Decatur will be speaking at the Oakland Public Library on Monday, August 25th at 7:00 p.m. She will be speaking on the perfect storm that turned her into an author.
“People as a lot what made me start writing and I usually don’t have a very good answer so I’m working on that and intent to talk about all the little things that went together to get me to write that first book,” Mary stated.
Mary has authored many, many books in her career. “In June, my thirty-first book released and my thirty-second is coming in September,” Mary said. “In fact, I’ve gotten my author’s copies already of Tried and True, book #1 of the Wild at Heart Series. I will bring some along.”
Mary isn’t planning to sell any books Monday night. “I have decided to take some to give away in exchange for a donation to the Oakland Public Library,” Mary stated.
Everyone is invited to the Oakland Library Monday night to visit with Mary and hear her speak.
“I am speaking to a group of unsuspecting book lovers who think a person who writes books can give an entertaining speech,” Mary said.
“Oh, are they ever in for a big surprise!”
Tried and True by Mary Connealy, courtesy of Mary Connealy.
Author Mary Connealy, courtesy of Mary Connealy.
August 21, 2014 Leave a comment
Glen and Norma Cull and Marlene Lindstrom were among many attending the dedication/open house for the new elementary addition at O-C. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
Troy Denton is pointing out some artwork on the walls to others at O-C’s new elementary addition. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
This is one of the grade school classrooms at O-C’s new elementary addition. Mark Johnson is pictured on the other end of the room. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.
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