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April 1, 2014 Leave a comment
Traditionally, April Fool’s Day is an opportunity for playing jokes or tricks on one another. The stranger and the more absurd the better. The challenge is to carry out a trick that is believable, if only for a little while.
What is the best April Fool’s joke someone played on you?
April 1, 2014 Leave a comment
Cody Bachtell of Tekamah got in the spirit of the 4-H Snow/Snowless Sculpture Contest this year with his entry titled “Make a Lasting Impact, Roll on with 4-H.”
Mary Loftis,
Extension Assistant
UNL Extension – Burt County
111 North 13th Street, Suite 6
Tekamah, NE 68061
Phone: (402) 374-2929
Fax: (402) 374-2930
Internet: mloftis2@unl.edu
Photo Credit/Mary Loftis.
April 1, 2014 Leave a comment
| By Lu Nelsen, lucasn@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs |
| Many are blown away by the thriving wind industry in the Midwest. Neighboring states like Iowa and South Dakota have seen fantastic expansion, with each state getting 27 and 26% of their energy from wind respectively, and Kansas is fast-approaching the 20% mark. Besides affordable, renewable energy; wind energy brought new careers and revenue to these states.
While Iowa, Kansas, and South Dakota continue to expand wind energy; Nebraska is lagging far behind. We’re missing out on the local benefits that wind development brings with it. Incentives and renewable energy goals in other states have been a big part of getting them into the game, and one reason why Nebraska has so far remained on the sidelines. LB 402–a bill recently passed by the legislature– will remove barriers to wind development in Nebraska, and help us become competitive with our neighbors. This legislation doesn’t just provide a handout, but rewards developers for purchasing materials and services from Nebraska businesses. LB 402 ensures that any wind development in Nebraska would boost our rural communities, and that as much investment as possible stays in our state. This not only helps existing businesses thrive, but provides new opportunities for Nebraskans. The key to unlocking the greatest benefit to communities is to not just get development in our state, but to keep it local. By passing LB 402, the Unicameral has taken a good step in expanding wind development, creating jobs, creating new businesses, and helping us reinvest in communities across Nebraska. |
April 1, 2014 Leave a comment
Thursday, March 20 was the Fifty-First Day of this One Hundred Third Legislature, Second Session. Only nine legislative days remain of our sixty day session. On our daily agenda we now regularly have numerous bills in Consent Calendar and on Final Reading, which means many bills are moving through the legislative process quickly. We are moving forward to make our limited time in session count. The 17 senators who are term limited after eight years of service continue using every tool in their toolbox and their floor experience with spirited zest in an attempt to bring their long awaited legislation to fruition before this session ends.
Not only do we consider and debate legislation on the floor each day, but we also do our best to respond to numerous constituent emails, letters, and phone calls. The number of meetings and receptions being held in and around the Capitol are also winding down, where focus is primarily on pending legislation at hand.
Lydia Brasch
Thank you to Pastor Pastor Russ Foust of Grace United Methodist Church in Kennard for serving as volunteer Chaplain leading us in prayer on Wednesday, March 26. It is uplifting to have our district’s clergy join us during session in prayer before we convene.
Here are some updates on legislation from this week:
The annual Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute is July 7-11, 2014, at UNL’s East Campus. “NAYI is a five-day conference for high school juniors and seniors to learn about career opportunities within agriculture. This includes: engaging speakers, workshops and panels, agriculture education, professional development, leadership experience, fun and new friends, networking with peers and industry leaders. All of these experiences come free of charge, thanks to generous sponsors.” Apply online at www.nda.nebraska.gov. Applications are due April 15.
We have heard from constituents on numerous issues, and I am always happy to hear from you! Please continue to contact me, my administrative aide, Katie Wattermann, or my legislative aide, Joe Neuhaus, with questions or thoughts at (402) 471-2728 or by email at lbrasch@leg.ne.gov; or stop by Room 1016 if you are at the Capitol.
Keeping the Good Life growing in Nebraska,
Senator Lydia Brasch, District 16
March 31, 2014 Leave a comment
On Friday, April 4th at 7:00 p.m there will be a Spring Recital in the Lyons-Decatur Northeast music room. It will feature High School District Music Contest (DMC) entries and much more.
Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy a music-filled evening.
March 31, 2014 Leave a comment
UNL Extension is offering a free Babysitting Clinic for any students in grades 3-6 across the county. This three session clinic will be held April 8, 10 and 15 in the Oakland City Auditorium in Oakland. Sessions will run from 3:45-5:00 p.m. each of the days. Participants must attend all three sessions to receive their Babysitting Clinic Certificate. All students in this age group are encouraged to attend. Call the UNL Extension Office at 402-374-2929 to pre-register by Noon, Tuesday, April 8.
Mary Loftis
Mary Loftis,
Extension Assistant
UNL Extension – Burt County
111 North 13th Street, Suite 6
Tekamah, NE 68061
Phone: (402) 374-2929
Fax: (402) 374-2930
Internet: mloftis2@unl.edu
March 31, 2014 Leave a comment
Bancroft Senior Center News
* The senior center provides Information and Assistance to any individual who is looking for services for themselves or another person 60 years and older, the center manager and/or center participant can provide information to individuals on services available within the community. We link individuals to the services and opportunities that are available within or beyond the community itself. We will then establish adequate follow-up procedures to see that their needs were met. For more information call 402-648-3387.
*If you are 60 years and older and need information on programs designed to help keep you in your home longer or if you need legal help, contact Connie at 402-648-3387 or in the evening at 402-648-7648.
* We have the following medical equipment to loan out on an as need basis, wheel chair, bath seats, toilet seat riser and portable toilet chair, crutches or walker. Call 402-648-3387 during office hours.
Meals on Wheels
The Meals on Wheels program started in Bancroft February 10th. Anyone over the age of 60 years and lives within the city limits are eligible for these meals. You may sign up anytime for the Meals on Wheels program; you can get the meals delivered however many times you want them each week. You must call 402-687-2332 before 8:45 if you want a meal that day.
We need more volunteers willing to deliver the meals once they get to the senior center in Bancroft. Contact the senior contact 402-648-3387 if you wish to help deliver the meals, want a meal delivered or have a question.
Weekly Activities:
Wed. April 2: No melody chimes practice today. Join us for coffee anytime during the day. Come and play Rummikub at 1:30. The foot clinic is today starting at 1:30 p.m.
Thurs.: April 3: Tai Chi class at 9:30 and the walking ex. class at 10:30. Stop in for coffee at 10:00. Sign up for the pitch tournament at 1:30. You are welcome to come at any time to work on the jigsaw puzzle.
Fri. April 4: We have a pinochle tournament at 1:30, call and sign up. St Joseph Retirement Community will bring the snack for lunch.
Sat. April 6: Music jam at 7:00 p.m. Join us for your music enjoyment. Bring a snack for lunch.
Mon. April 7: Bring a covered dish and join us for the noon meal. Cards will be played after lunch. Come and work on the jigsaw puzzle.
Tues. April 8: Tai Chi class at 9:30 and the walking ex. class at 10:30. Stop in for coffee at 10:00. Sign up to play in the pitch tournament at 1:30.
Wed. April 9: Melody chimes practice at 9:00. Will play the game of golf at 1:30, come and play, if you don’t how to play they will teach you.
March 31, 2014 Leave a comment
By Clare Wiltse
Sports Contributor
Four years ago a new coach took over at Northeast. He inherited at team that had graduated seven seniors. There were only two players with extended varsity playing time. It was a definite rebuilding job and meant using four freshmen. The team struggled and finished with a 6-17 record.
The next season the four sophomores were joined by two more classmates and helped propel the Cougars to an 11-12 record.
The last two season the team has been a .500 team in spite of playing in one of the toughest conferences in Nebraska. The EHC Elkhorn Division has had a State Champion team in 2013 and 2014. The team did not have the physical attributes, mainly height, but made up for that with true grit. They had a 12-12 record in 2013 and finished this season with an 11-11 mark.
“We had a chance to post the first winning record since 2004,” said Coach Derek Lahm. “In the last two games we were just not ourselves. It should not take away from our season and the great effort the team gave each game.”
The seniors have put their mark on the Cougar Top Ten List. Alex Brehmer eclipsed All-Stater Bret Kroger’s records in games played and steals. He is second to Kroger in career assists with 216. His 78 assists in 2014 is tied for fourth. His 50 steals in ninth best for a season.
Dakota Riecken, an undersized post player, did not let size deter him. His 62.4% shooting is second to 6′ 7″ Brett Sailors’s 67%. For his career he converted 57.9%, again second to Sailors. His 78 and 173 free throws is fourth best for season and fifth best for career at NHS. He is tied for third in career offensive rebounds (173) and ninth in total rebounds (395).
Bobby Simpson put his name on the list as a three point shooter. He had 42 which places him in sixth place. His career total of 101 is fourth best. He is eighth in free throw percentage for a season at 78.1%.
Junior Chevy Henneman broke into the top ten with 35 three pointers this season. He is tied with Derek Haskell.
The class of 2014 has three 500 career point players. Dakota Riecken finished with 571 points. Bobby Simpson score 519 points and Alex Brehmer had 510.
Taylor Fuston had career marks of 43 points, 42 rebound and 19 steals to go with 16 assists. He was on varsity for three seasons.
David Bishop scored 77 points and grabbed 77 rebounds in this three seasons. He also had 26 steals and 12 assists.
The 2014th season saw the Cougars finish in a tie for fourth in the Elkhorn Division with a 3-4 record. The co-champions Bancroft-Rosalie won State and Dodge-Howells took third in Lincoln.
Despite their .500record the Cougars won all the statistical categories exception rebounding. Their tough man-to-man defense held opponents to 49.2 point per contest and forced 356 turnovers. They had 213 steals. The opposition had a 35 rebound advantage in rebound.
Northeast will have four returning players with experience on the varsity level. Chevy Henneman will be the top returning scorer with an 8.7 average. Sophomore Marcus Hegy averaged 7.2 ppg and was third best in rebounding with 92. Sophomore Alec Anderson was a valuable reserve with a 1.6 ppg average. His season was cut short by a hand injury.
Freshman Montana Riecken gained varsity experience in 2014. He will have the tough job of replacing Alex Brehmer at point guard next year.
March 31, 2014 Leave a comment
Edith Nancy Rich was born September 25, 1918 to Charles Edward and Jessie (Blue) Lyght on a farm near Decatur, Nebraska. She passed away March 29, 2014, at Legacy Garden Rehabilitation and Living Center in Pender, Nebraska, at the age of 95 years.
She graduated from Decatur High School, valedictorian of her class in 1935. She took a business course from Commercial Extension of Omaha, Nebraska, and later received two diplomas from the International Bible Institute of St. Louis, Missouri.
Edith married Elmer Rich in December of 1939, and became a farmer’s wife. God blessed this union with five children: Mina, Margaret, Shirley, and twins Lorena and LeRoy.
Edith (Lyght) Rich
They left farming and moved to South Sioux City, Nebraska, then to Lyons because of the Missouri River flood of 1952. The family grew up in Lyons and they were active in the Assembly of God Church.
Edith worked in the food industry and army ammunition plant during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. She was a hard worker and thought a job worth doing was a job worth doing well.
The greatest thing about our mother was her relationship with God and her love for other people. She excelled as a mother, leaning on the Lord, her maker, for direction throughout life’s trials. She loved music and enjoyed singing and playing old hymns. One favorite was “I’ll Meet You in the Morning”.
Edith was preceded in death by her parents; her oldest daughter, Mina Farber; three sisters, Eva Davis, Doris Martin and Lillian Lyght; and three grandchildren.
Survivors include her four children, Margaret (Loyd) Orr of Bellevue, NE, Shirley Jacobsen of Clever, MO, Lorena Halte of Griffin, GA, LeRoy (Sue) Rich of Bonner Springs, KS; 10 grandchildren, Denise, Mike, Debbie, Lonnie, David, John, Shane, Brandon, Mindy and Mary; great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.
March 31, 2014 Leave a comment
Robert W. Morris, 77, of Wayne, Nebraska died on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at the Pender Community Hospital in Pender, Nebraska. Funeral services for Bob will be held on Friday, April 4, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Wayne; Pastor Sylvia Karlsson will be officiating. A visitation with the family present will be held on Thursday from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Wayne. Burial with military honors will be in the Greenwood Cemetery of Wayne. Memorials may be directed to Bob’s family for later designation. Arrangements are under the direction of Bressler – Munderloh – Smith Funeral Home of Wakefield.
Robert W. Morris
Bob was born on June 7, 1936 in Carroll, NE, the son of John and Sophia (Stahl) Morris. He was baptized and confirmed at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Wayne. In 1954, Bob graduated from Wayne High School. After graduation he joined the United States Air Force; working as a crypto operator while serving in Alaska and Maryland from 1954 until 1958. After his service, Bob returned to Wayne and was united in marriage to Betty Longe on May 29, 1959 at Redeemer Lutheran Church. To this union two children were born: Jere and Jeanne. For a short time, he worked as a milk hauler from farm places to the dairy. He later worked for Wayne State College as a heating and cooling engineer in the campus energy plant. Bob retired in 2008. One of the greatest gifts Bob gave his family was being grandpa to Jeremy. Bob was always there for Jeremy and his parents. A majority of Bob’s free time was spent attending area sporting events, particularly Legion baseball. Bob was an avid reader of newspapers and books. He enjoyed having coffee with his friends, and loved the time spent with the children his wife Betty cared for in their home.
Bob is survived by his wife Betty of Wayne, NE, son Jere Morris of Omaha, NE, daughter Jeanne (John) Vezner of Papillion, NE, a grandson Jeremy Vezner, sisters Maxine Trautman of Longmont, CO, Arline Lurz of Beemer, NE, Jannabelle (Lynn) Gamble of Wayne, NE a brother Dennis (Kaye) Morris of Wayne, NE and a brother-in-law Glenn “Ole” (Alice) Longe of Whittier, CA.
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Sophia, in-laws Bill and Eva (Flynn) Longe, and brothers-in-law Don Longe, Garry Trautman and Lawrence Lurz.
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