Word on the Street: OC and TH Consolidation

September 6, 2016 Leave a comment


Voters will take to the polls in November to decide the fate of Oakland-Craig and Tekamah-Herman schools staying where they are or consolidating. Kat Country Hub decided to see what some people think of the schools consolidating. Here are the opinions:

 

Cindy Schorn If it will give kids a good education and is financially a better choice then I think it’s a good thing

Peggy Robinson Peterson Absolutely no

Kay Marie Throener I love the idea of my daughter going to a smaller school. I dont want her getting lost in a class where the teacher is unable to help all the students if they need it. More one on one teacher to student.

 

Jody Davis Its a good thing I don’t have a close personal stake in it!but here goes no!

Krisa Brown We are in favor of it. Looking towards the future.

Lauri Bundy Canarsky Denise, you and I both are from Tekamah & Oakland. We both understand the conflict that happens. Left to their own devices,the younger kids would adjust if they were merged, but we both know that the adults would find conflict, no matter what happens. Over 25 years since Oakland & Craig merged, and we still that “the Oakland people” & “the Craig people”. I’m sure Tekamah & Herman have the same situation.

Jasmine Haeffner Helzer I started elementary the year Lyons-Decatur joined. We seen our Decatur class mates twice a year. Once on our field trip and once during our track & field day. Unlike our previous consolidations this is for high school only. I feel there are many questions that need to be answered, and still details that need to be discussed.

Debbie Meyer Krutilek Consolidation is never easy and no one likes to see change. This plan has been researched and discussed for long enough. Time for the communities to make their decision and move forward, one way or another.
I was a student during the consolidation of schools in the early 70’s. At that time the decision was made to be proactive, instead of reactive.Consolidating two schools takes lots of cooperation and dedication from Administrators, board members, teachers and community members. Our kids will make us proud no matter where they attend classes. It’s up to the voters to decide what they feel is best for our youth. The bottom line is “School is for Kids”.

Delwin Anderson Just my opinion…I feel when it is time to vote on things like this, it should be for property owners only…tired of taking the weight from those who don’t contribute but still get all the benefits. Just sayin..I know t doesn’t work that way…but you asked!
Leann Canarsky Jorgensen I am on the fence about it! I know that things need to change with the times, but I really like the fact that my kids are in town for school. They can walk if needed, & I’m not real crazy about highway 32 on a good day, so I cannot imagine what winter will be like! I wish we could all be one district, share administration & still have our own schools in town. Does that make sense?

Susan Reynolds-Seery Both my kids will be out of school so me it won’t matter, but I believe what is better for our kids is what should matter. I came from a BIG school, Millard South in Omaha and graduated with about 400 kids, my kids now have like 7 kids in each class and are getting the attention they need. I just hope whatever the decision it’s for the KIDS!

Tami Friedl Hovendick I am not for it! It’s not like they’re consolidating all of the grades and putting them into one school they’re still going to have these schools open even with the Elementary in there so what’s the point of just consolidating the high schools.

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

School Consolidation Issue: Vote Responsibly, Based on Facts

August 30, 2016 Leave a comment


As November 8th looms, more and more people are voicing their opinions about the possibility of Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig schools consolidating.

I am still undecided as to how I will vote. Upon deciding, I will not share my decision. Voting is a private matter. And, in this case, I believe it is better to remain as such.

There are times social media is a way to gain knowledge, catch up with friends, share pictures with others, and so on.

It is too bad it isn’t used that way all of the time.

Unfortunately, there are those using social media to state their version of facts, some of which don’t even pertain to the issue at hand.

I have read some posts I find appalling. I have to wonder if those saying such things have even attended a meeting to hear both sides of the issue.

I do believe there are many individuals that are of one mind, regardless of the facts. This is sad considering the importance of the issue and especially all involved.

I have also seen many “sponsored” pages on facebook. There are several posts stating alleged facts of the situation and what happens when a school loses its’ high school.

I don’t know who is posting such statements, but I am curious as to where they are obtaining their information.

People have asked, but to no avail.

I read these posts, but I don’t let the negativity and uninformed statements play a part of my decision.

I choose to stick to the facts.

I hope everyone else does.

This may be the most important local vote to be cast in years.

Be responsible and be informed!

 

 

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , , ,

School Consolidation: Vote Responsibly!

August 26, 2016 Leave a comment


School consolidation is hitting new highs and lows. Some believe since Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig are alleged rivals, the kids will fight all the time if they are in the same school.

My opinion, kids learn from what they hear.

Education is the MOST important issue.

I don’t even know how I will vote. But, I do know, I will stick to the facts.

Here is my quote after I read so much about weather, kids fighting, and so on.

The most important issue here is education. I went to school in both Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig…..my family moved to Oakland when I was starting my sophomore year. I was blessed to attend school in Tekamah all of my years prior. Upon coming to Oakland, I was nervous, believing the rivalry would hurt me and kids wouldn’t like me. That was NEVER an issue. I was and am blessed to have life long friends from both schools. I was on honor roll in both schools, thanks to very dedicated teachers. This is a very difficult decision for all. But, kids aren’t going to be fighting to where a sheriff has to be called. That type of behavior should never be encouraged. This is an education and financial issue. Base votes on facts, not hypothetical issues.

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

Kats’ Korner: Memorable First Day of School and Consolidation

August 17, 2016 Leave a comment


Consolidation of Oakland-Craig and Tekamah-Herman Schools is a hot topic in each community.

There are many inaccurate accounts of the situation being stated from each town involved. I heard someone so upset stating Tekamah-Herman were coming to Oakland-Craig to school. I have heard others say the students from each school will not get along. This came from parents. I certainly hope parents aren’t encouraging their children to be unaccepting of other children.I find this so disappointing.

The bottom line is: ALL of us are responsible to do what is best for the children, for their education and their future. We owe it to them. They are the citizens of tomorrow, our future leaders.

I recently walked through the Burt County Fair Parade, as President of the Oakland City Council. I had many friends and family walk through with me, showing my dedication to Oakland and the community. I am running for election in November. I wanted to see people first-hand and let them know how much I care for each and every one of them.

At the end of the parade, I had a person whom I had never met, ask me what my position was on the school consolidation issue. I was quite surprised by the question, but I knew my answer immediately. I kindly told her that at this point, I was undecided. I want to take more time to review each side of the issue before making a definite decision. I also told her I think this has to be so difficult for every person on both sides of the proposal.

Since then, I have given in a great deal of thought. I do believe at some point in time, school consolidation will happen for both schools. This will be determined on the amount of state aid available to schools and how well a school can manage based upon their budget. I hope and pray that each district puts education for each student on the front burner.

If each school can provide the best of education for each child without consolidation, then I am for that. But, if that is not a possibility, then consolidation is a must.

I also want to share a memory of my own. I grew up in Tekamah. I went attended Tekamah-Herman schools through my Freshman year. Then, we moved to Oakland. I began my Sophomore year at Oakland-Craig Schools. Those that remember both schools in the year of 1978, you will remember how competitive they were in sports. They were huge rivals back then.

I was terrified to start school in Oakland-Craig. I need not worry so much. I was welcomed and made many friends whom I am still friends with today.

I also stayed friends with my Tekamah-Herman class and the teachers and staff there. I am invited back to every class reunion and just attended our 35 year reunion. I also attended my 35 year O-C class reunion the same day. It is a juggling act, but I want to see everyone! They are a big part of my life.

Basically, I went through my own school consolidation and all went fine.

If the voters approve a consolidation, I don’t worry about students getting along. I know both districts have good, caring people and each of them will come together for the sake of the children.

The children are what is most important. 

 

 

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , , ,

Kats’ Korner: Celebrating the Good Times

July 29, 2016 Leave a comment


As time passes, I realize how precious it is to create memories.

 

Jeff and I were blessed to celebrate 20 years of marriage this past Wednesday. I can’t believe how fast time has gone. It seems like yesterday that we eloped to Dead Wood, South Dakota. It is just beautiful there! We said our “I do’s” and had a wonderful time taking in the scenery and many places to visit.

In honor of 20 years of marriage, we really didn’t plan anything special. We had recently purchased a boat and had only had it out once. To us, buying a boat was a thrill and quite a treat! Jeff took the day off of work, we loaded up the boat and went to Summit Lake fishing.

Some women maybe wouldn’t like the idea of fishing on their anniversary, but I loved it. I grew up fishing and so did Jeff. I also knew how much the boat means to Jeff. Seeing how happy the boat makes him brings joy to me as well.

We had a glorious day! The weather was perfect and the fish were biting! We caught catfish and blue gill. One of the catfish Jeff caught was six pounds! It was the catch of the day!

When we were done fishing, I drove the boat around the lake a few times. I had never driven a boat, but it isn’t difficult. We cruised around, taking in nature and all its’ beauty before calling it a day.

I can’t wait to go boating and fishing again!

Another precious memory is in the books.

Life is good!

My husband, Jeff Gilliland, caught this 6 pound catfish at Summit Lake near Tekamah NE yesterday. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.

My husband, Jeff Gilliland, caught this 6 pound catfish at Summit Lake near Tekamah NE yesterday. Photo Credit/Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

Kats’ Korner: Praying for a Better, Safe World

July 19, 2016 1 Comment


To get nations back on their feet, we must first get down on our knees. —Billy Graham

 

I have always believed in the power of prayer. I pray each and every day.

I am finding myself on my knees more now than ever in my life.

To see innocent people being killed all over the world just attending an event, going to the mall or being at an airport, is heartbreaking and very frightening. I have always loved small town life. There is a sense of safety in a small town. Everyone knows everyone. I go for walks, never fearing for my life.

I wonder if that will be the case for future generations? Or even true for the rest of my life?

There are groups whom believe in hurting/killing others. This is beyond me. I value my life. I wish I could live forever, watching my grandkids grow into adults and having their own families. I do believe knowing I won’t be here forever makes me value life more.

Now, police officers, those here to protect and serve, are being killed all over the country.

What is wrong with people? If I had the answer to that, I would be rich.

My dad was a police officer. I know how difficult it was for him sometimes. People don’t always like those in blue, wearing a badge and enforcing the law. Probably because they break the law and end up arrested.

That is a police officers job, enforcing the law and arresting those who break it.

They are protecting citizens. I am thankful for them each day. I know I am safe because of police officers.

It is a scary time in this world. I believe in leaving the world a better place than I found it.

The only way I can do that is to be on my knees, praying, each and every day.

Please do the same.

God will provide the answer.

 

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

A Minute with the Mayor

July 12, 2016 Leave a comment


What a great day the 4th of July was. The weather was perfect as were all the events that went on throughout the day. It all culminated in another fantastic fireworks display. It was an Independence Day done right by Lyons once again! But this year was more than a celebration of our country’s independence.

It was a celebration of Lyons doing what it does best – caring about Lyons, the people living in it and its future! My heart burst for joy seeing all those who came out to support the fun run/walk for Arizona Riecken. It wasn’t as much about raising money as it was it to show him and the Riecken family just how much they are loved and supported by this community. What was raised for financial support pales in comparison to the moral support I know they all felt. And then there was the dedication of the Veterans’ Memorial Plaza. I knew it would be well attended but once again I was overwhelmed with the number of people who came out to support our past, present and future veterans.

It was wonderful to have our state senator, Lydia Brasch, and our lt. Governor, Mike Foley, speak at the ceremony. Their speeches captured the spirit of what the Veterans’ Memorial means to our veterans and the citizens of Lyons. But without community support, the project would have just stayed a dream.   The purchase of the 300 hundred tiles to honor loved ones and the start of the next 300. We can’t forget about the countless fundraisers that were put-on to raise funds for the rebuilding of the plaza because people believed in the dream. Our own school children (you know the younger generation that we always worry about not really understanding just what freedom looks like?) raising over $13,000 for the cause. If you ask me, I don’t think we have much to worry about with at least our group of young people! And then we can’t forget about our American Legion, VFW and Auxiliary. They all worked very hard to provide the people of Lyons with a solemn reminder that freedom isn’t always free and to honor their past, present and future comrades in arms. If you attended the dedication, you heard Jerry Ludwig heap praise on many, many people who helped make this dream a reality.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our heart-felt thanks to Jerry for being the life blood that worked tirelessly over the last year making this memorial a worthy tribute to our active, retired and deceased service members. It will be a crown jewel in Lyons for generations to come. We should all be very proud. Finally the day couldn’t have happened without the dedication and commitment from the people who make up the Lyons Community Club and Lyons Fire and Rescue. I know I say it every year but it really does take a lot of time and effort to organize and pull-off an all-day event like we do here in Lyons.

It takes countless volunteers to make it all happen. From the beginning of the day with the pancake feed to the end of the day with the fireworks display, none of it would be possible without the help and assistance of the people of Lyons. So for me, the 4th of July was so much more than celebrating our independence as a nation, it was about celebrating Lyons as a community and all the wonderful people who live, work and raise families here.

I’ll sign off again using the quote from Walt Disney that we have on the wall in the lobby of the community center, “You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” Lyons has dream makers and we are so blessed because of it! Enjoy the rest of July. Stay cool! We’ll talk to you soon.

Mayor Andy Fuston

Mayor Andy Fuston

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

Kats’ Korner: Gardening, Hot Tub and Anniversary

May 16, 2016 Leave a comment


This spring has been a soggy one, to say the least. Do you have your vegetables and flowers planted? We finally finished planting our garden and flowers yesterday. I am hoping to grow green beans this year! Last year, the rabbits kept eating them. Once they are up, I am putting a fence around them!

We have been focusing more and more on healthy eating. It is so important to drink lots of water, eat healthy and exercise.

It is hard with the busy lives we lead. Between work and our other obligations, making time for exercise is difficult.

I bought a Garmin band that keeps me moving! It keeps tracks of my steps, miles, heart rate, etc. It also shows what time it is. I don’t have to charge it either. It runs on a watch battery. It also syncs to an app on my IPhone so I can keep track of my progress from day to day.

   Kats’ Korner

We recently purchased a portable/inflatable hot tub. We haven’t used it yet. We are going to have another electrical outlet installed first. Hopefully this week! I am so excited to use it! I am sure it will do a wonder for Jeff’s sore back.

We don’t treat ourselves to many luxuries. I have wanted one for a while and finally talked Jeff into it.

Now we can go from our pool to the hot tub! What a treat!

I just hope this cold, soggy spring turns into a warm, beautiful summer!

Kats’ Korner

Jeff and I will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary in July. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful husband. I cherish every moment with him.

We are fortunate to have lived and loved each and every day together. I remind myself every day how lucky I am.

I hope we can get away for a few days sometime this summer to celebrate our milestone, but if not, that is fine too.

I don’t care where I am as long as I am with him!

 

Thought for the day: Cherish every moment you are blessed to be on earth! Time flies!

Have a great week!

Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub. Oakland City Council President.

Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub. 

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

A Minute with Lyons Mayor Andy Fuston

April 20, 2016 Leave a comment


By Lyons Mayor, Andy Fuston

 

Here we are, already nearing the end of April. Hard to believe school will be out for the year in a month and those house projects I’ve been putting off due to cold weather will now have to be completed! I guess we all have to do what we need to do. The city is no different. Some projects are easy to do and no brainers like refinancing the wastewater bond that will save the city over $50,000 in interest costs over the course of the loan. Others, such as purchasing a new patrol car, aren’t as easy to decide. However, with the old police cruiser falling apart before our eyes and warranty durations shortening with new model years, the council decided to bite the bullet and authorize the purchase of a new 2015 Charger at the state bid price and a 5 year/100,000 mile warranty. This purchase will keep our police department in reliable vehicles for many years to come. The council had more discussion about the water tower issues and had a few more questions for EIA (the water tank designer/manufacturer) that hopefully will be answered by the May meeting. Once we are satisfied with the answers, we will move forward with the modifications. The Storefront Theater is gearing up for its first full season on Main Street. Marilyn Tenney presented the council with a check from the proceeds of the sale of the Lyons DVD to help toward future upkeep. The library will be the entity to manage the schedule of events so if you are interested in having an outdoor movie event, visit with them. The city will still need to be involved due to blocking off the street and such but I’m excited about the potential the theater could mean to community interaction.

You might have noticed that the community sign by the library has been taken down. We removed it due to the Veterans’ Memorial being constructed. We don’t want the sign and pole to interfere with the ascetics of the Memorial. Once the construction is completed, we will evaluate if we want it back in the same place or if we want to move it. It will need to stay close to the library as that is where all the wiring for the electronic sign comes from. Town clean-up was a big success. We ran out of dumpster space which is always a good thing. Thanks for taking the time to clean up in and around your property to help make Lyons look nice. Our city street sweeping company we contract with was sold. We are getting a bid for street cleaning four times a year from the new owner. We had to repair a section of the main sanitary sewer line that had collapsed and a high service pump at water plant #2 has been repaired and back in service. We also replaced the city mower and submitted our last report to NDEQ for our plastic recycling baler.

The pool is on schedule to open at its normal time-right around Memorial Day. We have received several lifeguard applications and they will go through the approval process at the May meeting. The council has also worked through a more formalized Pool Rules and Regulations program and a Lifeguard Handbook to assist lifeguards and pool patrons with the rules of the pool. Last year was a learning experience for everyone with the new pool so I’m confident this year will be a smoother season for all.

Lastly I just wanted to remind everyone just how proud we should be of the students in our school. What the senior/junior classes did by giving up part of their post prom experience and instead donating a portion of the money to the Veterans’ Memorial gave me goosebumps! Because of their altruistic efforts, the school and Lyons/Decatur received some great kudos in the press and from community members.   How lucky are we to have such great kids representing our community. They should make you proud. I know they do me! Enjoy the nice weather. Don’t forget to vote in the upcoming primary in May. Every vote counts! Take care and I’ll talk to you soon.

Mayor Andy Fuston

Mayor Andy Fuston

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

Voting in the Upcoming Primary

April 19, 2016 Leave a comment


Three weeks from today is the primary. Do you know whom you are voting for? I don’t mean on a national level, I am referring to the local candidates.

There are several incumbents and new faces running for both the Oakland City Council and the Oakland-Craig Board of Education.

I am an incumbent running for election to the Oakland City Council.

I am hoping to be elected to serve the taxpayers of Oakland for the next four years.

I consider it an honor and a privilege to be on the city council, serving the taxpayers and striving to keep Oakland a thriving community.

Being a member of the city council is not just going to one meeting a month. There is so much more involved than most people realize. It takes all of the city employees, the mayor and council to keep the city running efficiently. It is challenging, but very rewarding.

I have to say, I love serving on the council. I believe in giving back to the community I live in, and I chose to do so by serving on the council.

I don’t believe in accomplishing something on the council alone. I believe in all of us working together to reach a goal and need for the community. We are here to serve the citizens and the citizens alone. The needs of the community have and will continue to come first for me.

I love the community of Oakland and hope you will vote for me to continue serving the town I am proud to live in and proud to call home.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you very much,

Denise Gilliland

Oakland City Council President

Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub. Oakland City Council President.

Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub. Oakland City Council President.

Filed under Opinion Tagged with , ,

← Older posts

Newer posts →