Voice News February 21 2008 - Section 1
Transcription
Voice News February 21 2008 - Section 1
What’s Inside: •Norris looks into student threats •Senator’s town hall meeting •Benes new deputy fire chief •Adams woman a conservationist •State wrestling results •Norris swimmers going to state •Palmyra Formal Night Health & Beauty Special Section VOICE Thursday, February 21, 2008 Vol. 30-No. 35 News of Western Otoe, Western Johnson, Northern Gage, Southern Cass & Lancaster Counties If your label reads 02-28-08, it’s time to renew! Lincoln, NE home of Gigi Haase Single copy 75¢ Hickman, NE • (402) 792-2255 • www.voicenewsnebraska.com • [email protected] • Bennet, NE • (402) 782-6060 Pickrell farmer’s body found in pickup on Saturday By Christina Case Friends and family of Gilbert Oltman gathered at Zion Lutheran Church in rural Pickrell on Tuesday to honor the life of their loved one. The 56-year-old Pickrell farmer was found deceased in his vehicle on Saturday. Around 5 p.m. on February 16, the Gage County Sheriff’s department received a report of a vehicle in a ditch near Pickrell. Deputies responded to the scene to find Oltman unresponsive in the driver’s seat of his gray Chevy S10 pickup. Pickrell and Beatrice Rescue personnel arrived on the scene and attempted CPR, but were unsuccessful. Oltman was pronounced dead at the scene. The pickup had apparently left the road and came to rest in a field north of E. Pickrell Road, about a mile east of Pickrell, but there was no damage to the vehicle. The results of an autopsy are still pending, but Gage County Sheriff Millard Gustafson suspected Oltman may have died of natural causes. Gilbert and his brother, Terry, grew up on a farm near Pickrell, and ended up working together on a farm nearby later in life. Gilbert was always into sports, whether he was watching, playing, or refereeing. He played fast-pitch softball for Filley High School, and always liked to bowl. The Beatrice community became familiar with his voice when he began announcing Legion and Bruins baseball games. His love of sports was never limited to just one, and he also refereed football and basketball games. After gaining lots of athletic nieces and nephews, Gilbert loved going to their games. Terry fondly recalls growing up and working with his brother. “He was always good-natured and as brothers, we never really fought,” he said. After their father died about 25 years ago, they shared many responsibilities, not the least being the care of their mother, Angeline, of Beatrice. “He was always a really loving and caring son to our mom,” Terry said. “I think he called her even more than I did.” The brothers have been sharing the work on their farm near Pickrell, while also holding full time jobs. Gilbert worked for the Farmers Coop in Plymouth, helping check on the dry land crops at the farm during his off hours. He had served for several years as a volunteer for the Pickrell Fire Department, and was a church and council member at Zion Lutheran Church. Gilbert’s sense of humor and disarming personality attracted many friends over the years, and he will be greatly missed. “He could always remember a joke and told it exactly like it should be told,” said Terry. Donations in memory of Gilbert can be sent to Zion Lutheran Church with Roger Daubendiek and Arlin Oltman in charge, and messages of condolence may be left online at www.foxfuneralhome.net. Lakeview Care Center in Firth on federal list for quality-of-care deficiencies By Mark Mahoney Lakeview Care Center in Firth was named Tuesday, February 12, to a national list of nursing homes from across the U.S. that have a past of severe quality-of-care problems and inadequate inspection records. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), part of the U.S. Department Health and Human Services, listed Lakeview, along with 130 other rest homes, as a “Special Focus Facility,” which means state employees who regulate care centers will study Lakeview’s quality of care more closely - every six months instead of just yearly - and the home will get more aid with its policymaking and system of care. If Lakeview doesn’t make any progress, it could lose the earnings it gets from Medicare and Medicaid. Connie Morris, the new full-time administrator at Lakeview, said the center’s placement on the “Special Focus” list is a result of inspections from over a year ago. She added that the listing would allow the rest home to start anew and improve every aspect of care at the facility, which was certified for Medicaid in 1974 and Medicare in 2003. “We are excited about the opportunity to examine ourselves,” she said, “and to look at everything as critically and deeply as we can.” Pat Snyder, executive director of the Nebraska Health Care Association, said CMS will help Lakeview put in a system that will improve the facility’s care and services. “CMS is going to require quality improvement,” she said. Lakeview is a nonprofit center with 57 beds; it had 11 openings as of Tuesday. According to the CMS Nursing Home Compare, between October 1, 2006, and December 31, 2007, the care center was investigated on a number of complaints. The state Department of Health and Human Services inspects rest homes on the basis of standards set by the federal government. It was determined that Lakeview lacked in 15 quality-of-care categories; the average is eight at nursing centers across the state. These problems consisted of: -not giving residents care or services for the best quality existence possible -not giving proper treatment to continued on page 8 Pictured above are the remnants of Melissa Hemmert’s burnt trailer home in rural Roca. She and her family escaped a fire last Friday night, but the structure was ruled a total loss. Photo by Bill F. Bryant Rural Roca family loses trailer home to fire By Mark Mahoney Life for Melissa Hemmert has changed a great deal during the past two months. On a cold, late night six days ago, Mother Nature burned away part of it. Melissa’s trailer home at 13400 South 54 th Street in rural Roca caught on fire late Friday, February 15. Hickman and Southwest Rural Fire units responded to the blaze around 10 p.m. and extinguished the flames in about an hour and a half, said Hickman fire chief Leon TenHulzen. He added that the fire departments stayed for awhile after the conflagration was out to make sure the fire was done. “The trailer was fully engulfed (in flames),” TenHulzen said when firefighters arrived on the scene. Melissa, her two sons - eightyear-old Juan and four-year-old Rigoberto - and her boyfriend Nicholas Von Busch, of Lincoln, all got out of the trailer safely, but the structure was ruled a total loss, according to sheriff’s reports. Total damage was estimated at $7,500. Thankful everybody escaped mostly unharmed, Melissa said they spent Friday night in Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center ’s burn unit. She was treated and released for a minor burn on her hand; according to Melissa, she got burned from running back into the trailer and grabbing her coat and car keys, which were already melting from the heat. Melissa said Juan and Nicholas were unhurt, while Rigoberto was treated for singed hair and smoke inhalation and then released. “We’re fine,” she said. “Everyone got out safe.” From the notes he could find on the fire, according to Lancaster County Sgt. Andy Stebbing, the cause of the fire was either a lit candle or a furnace, but the blaze is still being investigated by the State Fire Marshal’s office. Melissa said that she and the others awoke to an explosion from the direction of the bathroom. She ran out of her bed- room, saw the bathroom on fire and scrambled to make sure everyone got out. Melissa said her younger son and boyfriend escaped first, and she grabbed her older son, who was sleeping in the living room. “We had little time to get out,” she said. Melissa managed to save her purse and cell phone, which they used to call 911. They also salvaged some of her jewelry and a few family pictures after the fire was put out, but most of their possessions were liquified in the blaze, including a couple hundred dollars in cash. Melissa doesn’t have insurance for either the trailer or its contents. “Everything pretty much melted,” she said. “I can’t tell what anything is.” The Red Cross put Melissa and her family up in the Howard Johnson hotel in Lincoln through this past Tuesday as they looked for another place to stay. Melissa, who wanted to eventually sell her trailer and move to Lincoln, said she wants to find a temporary home in north Lincoln for her family as soon as possible. “I have a lot of people calling around to their landlords,” she said. Before the blaze, Melissa already had a lot to deal with since the beginning of the year. Juan, who used to go to Norris School, started attending Clinton Elementary School in Lincoln in early January. Melissa recently switched jobs from Kawasaki to Total Body, a Lincoln salon and day spa. Now a fire has taken her family’s home. In the wake of that loss, Melissa said, her coworkers at Total Body have donated clothes, pillows and other items to her family. A friend of hers is also looking to start a donation fund at a local bank, but nothing has been done yet. She added that her brother Curt Embree, who is employed with Stephens & Smith Construction in Lincoln, tried to get a donation fund started at his work, but they wouldn’t let him. “Life’s changed 100 percent,” she said. “It’s just unbelievable.” If you would like to donate small items or cash to Melissa’s family, you can mail or bring items to her work place, Total Body, at 5530 O Street, Lincoln, NE 68510. If you want to contact Melissa about what her family needs, e-mail her at [email protected]. Hallam citizens dedicate new auditorium Rogge Construction owner Randy Rogge, left, presented the keys to the new auditorium to Hallam board chairman Derek Dragoo on Sunday. More coverage inside. Photo by Bryant The VOICE NEWS is The Hometown Independently Owned Newspaper for Adams, Bennet, Cheney, Cortland, Denton, Douglas, Eagle, Filley, Firth, Hallam, Hickman, Holland, Martell, Palmyra, Panama, Pickrell, Princeton, Roca, Rokeby, Sprague, Sterling, and Walton. Page 2 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 FOR Community Menus ~ COMMUNITY CENTERS Mon., Firth: Roast Beef/Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli Salad w/ Peas/Ranch Dressing, Bread, Mandarin Oranges Tues., Panama: Meat Loaf, Gourmet Potatoes, Italian Beans, Blueberry Muffin, Apple w/Caramel Sauce Wed., Hickman: Turkey Tetrazzini, Peas, Tomato Juice, Bread, Strawberry Chiffon Gelatin Salad Thurs., Bennet: Chicken Salad on Bun, Lentil/Spinach Soup/Crackers, Sliced Peaches, Jello Cake/Non-Dairy Whipped Topping Fri., Waverly: Smothered Pork Chop, Parmesan Potatoes, Carrot Raisin Salad, Roll, Diced Pears PALMYRA, DOUGLAS, STERLING CENTERS MENU Mon.: Hot Beef Sandwich, Mashed Potatoes, Toss Salad, Pudding Cake Tues.: Pork Steak, Au Gratin Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, Cobbler Wed.: Hamburger Steak/Mushroom Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, Fruit Thurs.: BBQ Chicken, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Lemon Bars Fri.: Baked Stuffed French Toast, Sausage Patties, Orange Juice, Coffee Cake DISTRICT OR-1 BREAKFAST MENU Mon.: Yogurt, Cereal Bar, Fruit or Juice Tues.: Cereal, Muffin, Fruit or Juice Wed.: Bacon-Cheese Eggs, Toast, Fruit or Juice Thurs.: Cereal, Pop Tart, Fruit or Juice Fri.: Breakfast Wrap, Hashbrown Patty, Fruit or Juice LUNCH MENU Mon.: Hot Ham/Cheese/Bun, Potato Wedges, Baked Beans, Fruit Tues.: Lasagna, Cottage Cheese, Corn, Fruit Wed.: Chicken Fajita/Rice, Green Beans, Fruit, Butter Sandwich Thurs.: Submarine Sandwich, French Fries, Peas or Carrots, Fruit Fri.: Pizza Sandwich Stuffer, Pickle Spears, Fruit, Dessert EAGLE ELEMENTARY LUNCH MENU Mon.: Chicken Nuggets, Macaroni/ Cheese, Vegetable, Fruit Tues.: Chili/Crackers, Cinnamon Roll, Vegetable, Fruit Wed.: BBQ Rib Patty Sandwich, Potato Smiles, Fruit, Rice Krispie Bar Thurs.: NO SCHOOL Fri.: NO SCHOOL FREEMAN SCHOOL LUNCH MENU Mon.: Chicken Tenders, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy, Butter Sandwich, Fruit Tues.: Fiestada, Vegetable, Fruit, Muffin Wed.: Spaghetti w/Meat Sauce, Lettuce/Dressing, Cheese Bread, Fruit Thurs.: Hamburger/Bun, Cheese, Pickles, Vegetable, Fruit Fri.: Fish Nuggets, Macaroni/ Cheese, Roll, Fruit, Ice Cream VOICE Thursday, February 21, 2008 News of Western Otoe, Northern Gage Western Johnson, Southwestern Cass & Lancaster Counties Address Service Requested PUBLICATION OF BRYANT NEWS, INC. CHANGE OF ADDRESS, SEND TO: P.O. BOX 148, 108 LOCUST STR. HICKMAN, NEBRASKA 68372-0148 PHONE 402-792-2255 USPS #442690 Periodicals Postage Paid at Hickman, NE 68372 Published Weekly on Thursdays at Hickman, NE 68372-0148 NORRIS SCHOOL BREAKFAST MENU (Cereal, Yogurt, Bagel, Juice, Fruit, Milk Served Daily) (MS-Grab/Go Breakfast Daily) Mon.: Breakfast Pizza Tues.: Pancakes and Sausage Wed.: Scrambled Eggs, Ham, Toast Thurs.: French Toast, Sausage Fri.: Coffee Cake LUNCH MENU Mon.: ES/MS, Hamburger/Bun, Honey Glazed Carrots; HS, Beef/ Noodles, Roll, or Chicken Strips, French Fries Tues.: ES, Hot Dog/Bun, Corn; MS, French Toast, Sausage; HS, Potato Bar/Fixings, Roll, or Hamburger/ Bun, Seasoned Baked Beans Wed.: ES/HS, French Toast, Sausage; MS, Chili, Cinnamon Roll; HS, Meatball Sub, Vegetable Thurs.: ES/MS, Spaghetti/Meat Sauce, Garlic Bread; HS, Nacho Bar, or Baked Potato and Ham Soup, Roll Fri.: ES/MS, Macaroni/Cheese, Corn, Roll; HS, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or Tuna Noodle Au Gratin, Oatmeal Roll STERLING SCHOOL BREAKFAST MENU (Cereal, Juice, Milk Served Daily) Mon.: Toaster Pastry Tues.: Pancakes, Sausage Wed.: Egg Patty, Toast Thurs.: Toast Fri.: Breakfast Burrito LUNCH MENU Mon.: Chicken Patty, Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy, Green Beans, Peaches Tues.: Vegetable Beef Soup, Lettuce Salad, Cheese Breadsticks, Applesauce Wed.: Hot Dog, Peas, Carrot Sticks, Pineapple Tidbits Thurs.: Potato Bake, Ham or Tuna Salad Sandwich, String Cheese, Pears Fri.: Fish Sandwich, Tator Gems, Coleslaw, Mixed Fruit 90th Birthday open house for Damrow Grace Damrow, of Roca, will celebrate her 90th birthday on March 2, 2008. Grace was married to the late Harvey Damrow for 64 years. Her children are Rodger and Bonnie Damrow, of Lincoln, and Bruce and Donna Damrow, of Montgomery, Alabama. She has five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Help her family celebrate at an open house on Sunday, March 2, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Trinity Chapel Church, 550 W. Rokeby Rd. No gifts please. Moormeier to celebrate 80th MEMBER NPA Co-Publisher & Man. Editor: BILL BRYANT Co-Publisher & Ad. Mgr.:LINDA BRYANT: Receptionist, copy: DONNA JAMESON: Production Mgr.: KEVIN DeVALKENAERE: Advertising Consultants: SANDI SAPP, PATTY PLATT & CHERYL KEETON: Photographer/Reporters LOGAN SEACREST, CHRISTINA CASE: & MARK MAHONEY Circulation Department DON BRYANT & GLENN WAGNER ALBERT T. ALLGOOD Allgood, Albert Thurman, 80, Peru, died Thursday, February 14, 2008, at his daughter's home in Firth. Born December 17, 1927 to Elmer Thurman and Helen (Neal ) Allgood at Peru. One of eight siblings. Attended Pleasant Valley country school near Julian through the eighth grade. 1945 Graduate of Peru High School. Worked for the railroad for one year; enlisted in U.S. Army, 1946. Trained as a Medical Tech and served on many different camps. After 18 months in the service, returned home to Peru. Married Barbara Kizer, gained step-daughter, Trudy. Worked in a cafe and a lumberyard. While serving in the Army Reserve, was called back to active service in 1950, served his country honorably in Japan, Military Police Unit. After tour, returned again to Peru and lived the rest of his life. USPS Postmaster, retired 1992. Active member, Peru V.F.W. Post #7299, served many offices, ran the V.F.W. Club in Peru for many years; member, Auburn American Legion Post #23; N.A.P.U.S., League Postmaster Organization; and served as Adjutant General of the V.F.W. Had been living with daughter, Nancy, past three years. Survivors: daughters, Trudy Allgood, Phoenix; and Nancy Caples, Firth; brother, Leonard, Papillion; sisters and brothers-in-law, Clara and Audley Jackson, Rock Port, Missouri; Ruth Earlywine, Omaha; Donna "Patty" and Bill Hulquist, Oakland; Doris and John Wallace, Bellevue; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara, 2001; sons, Dennis and David; daughter, Jackie Moyer; grandson, Corey Moyer. Services were held Monday, February 18, 2008, Auburn. Mt. Vernon Cemetery, military graveside honors provided by Peru V.F.W. Post #7299 and Auburn American Legion Post #23. IRENE ROCKER Rocker, Irene, 88, Lincoln, died Saturday, February 16, 2008. Born April 19, 1919, to Charles and Libbie (Pulec) Stich. Survivors: daughters and sons-inlaw, Linda and Rod Hollman, Martell; Diane and Randy Rubenthaler, Wichita, Kansas; daughters-in-law, Gracie Bohmont, Martell; Kay Bohmont, Lincoln; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; and stepchildren; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; nieces, cousins. Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edward Rocker; sons, Gary Bohmont and Monte Bohmont; sisters, Frances Roesler and Evelyn Soukup. Services were held Wednesday, February 20, 2008, Crete. Centerville Cemetery. Memorials in care of the family. VELMA A. FRAAS Fraas, Velma A., 85, Denton, widow of Joe, died Saturday, February 16, 2008. Former waitress and homemaker. Member, St. Mary's Catholic Church in Denton and altar society. Survivors: daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Dan Harrison, Omaha; son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Debra Fraas, Denton; brother-in-law, Bill Fraas, Denton; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Shirley and Dale Allder, Lincoln; sister-in-law, Jeri Kay Fraas, Hickman; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by two brothers and one sister. Services were held Wednesday, February 20, 2008, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Denton, Monsignor Mark Huber. Denton Cemetery. Memorials to the family. Births A BOY SUBSCRIPTION RATES: $28.00 Per Year In Nebraska $35.00 Per Year Elsewhere Single Copy 75¢ CORRECTIONS RECORD February 25-29 Prize Winning Newspaper! It is the policy of the VOICE News to correct all errors of fact. To report an error, please send us e-mail at [email protected] or call (402) 792-2255. ©2008 VOICE N EWS THE Please join Alice Moormeier’s family in celebrating her 80th birthday at a open house on Sunday, March 9, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Scott and Nancy Moormeier’s home at 2170 SW 42nd Rd, Cortland. Please, no gifts! Alan and Carie Loos, of Lincoln, are the proud parents of a baby boy. Tanner Orlo Loos weighed 9 pounds and was born on February 5, 2008. He joins his sister, Teri Ann, and brother, Trevin. Grandparents are Margie Jo and Greg Loos, of Lincoln, and Terry and Amy Chandler, of Lincoln. Great-grandparents are Ruth Zweerink, of Firth, and Ruth Chandler, of Lincoln. This is Ruth Zweerink’s 45th great-grandchild! Obituaries DR. RICHARD BOOHAR Boohar, Dr. Richard K., 72, Lincoln, died on Friday, February 8, 2008. Devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, professor and scholar. Born, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Class of 1935 Valedictorian at Chester (Pennsylvania) High School; B.S. in Zoology (Summa Cum Laude) from Drew University (New Jersey), finished at the top of his class; M.S. and Ph.D. (Endocrinology) from the Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison. Married Judy (nee Ahana) in 1959, raised five children. Taught at Butler Univ. in Indianapolis, Indiana, three years, took position in School of Biological Sciences at UNL. Retired May 2000, received title of Professor Emeritus. Instilled in students the belief that "a world without ethics is a world not worth living in." Continued teaching favorite course, Honors Ethics, following retirement, until prevented by physical restrictions. Chief Advisor for School of Biological Sciences at UNL. 1988 Student Foundation Award for Outstanding Advising. Insatiable reader surrounded by a lifetime's worth of collected books. Loved JRR Tolkien, read the Lord of the Rings more than 70 times. Led a Tolkien discussion group. Season-ticket holder and passionate fan of UNL Women's Volleyball team. Actively supported dozens of charitable organizations; lifelong blood donor, more than 14 gallons of blood to the Lincoln Community Blood Bank. Encyclopedic fund of knowledge; willing to discuss any topic in depth. Survivors: wife, Judy; sons and daughters-in-law, Mike and Jennifer, of Urbandale, Iowa; Jim and Stephanie, of Snohomish, Washington; Tom and Angie, of Overland Park, Kansas; daughters and son-in-law, Laura and Jim Devine, of Hickman, and Lisa, of San Francisco, California; 10 grandchildren. Services were held Saturday, February 16, Lincoln. Memorials in lieu of flowers to the Lincoln Community Blood Bank or St. Mark's-on-the-Campus Episcopal Church. NORMAN J. SULLIVAN Sullivan, Norman J., 76, Lincoln, died Thursday, February 14, 2008. Born February 21, 1931, Firth, to Elmer and Mayme (Hocheim) Sullivan. Married Lila Roth on January 18, 1951. Farmed in Cortland area; employed at Pfizer, retired in 1995. Entertained many with his band, Norm Sullivan and The Country Rhythm Boys, five years, played around the Lincoln area and neighboring states. Member, St. James Catholic Church, Cortland. Survivors: wife, Lila, Lincoln; daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Norman Rollins, Fort Calhoun; sons and daughters-in-law, Kirk and Gina, Todd and Marci, Stacy and Emily Sullivan, all of Lincoln; sister and brother-in-law, Colleen and Clarence Emal Jr., Pickrell; six grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; beloved dog, Snickers; aunt, uncle, numerous other relatives. Preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services were held Monday, February 18, 2008, Lincoln. Lincoln Memorial Park. Memorials to the family. Condolences may be left online at lincolnfh.com. EDNA P. PETTIGREW Pettigrew, Edna P., 85, Elmwood, died Friday, February 15, 2008, Syracuse. Born April 14, 1922 to Herman and Carrie (Shoemaker) Bogema at Panama. Married Lloyd Pettigrew, September 4, 1940, at Butte. Lifetime restaurant owner. Member, Elmwood Christian Church; American Legion Auxiliary; and Red Hat Club. Survivors: son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Sandy, Bennet; daughters and sons-in-law, Ruth Ann and Jerry Jones, Omaha; Beverly and Clinton Pierce, Atalissa, Iowa; sister Doris who followed Edna in death six hours later; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lloyd; great-granddaughter, Kassie Stewart; brothers, Harvey; Marian; Lloyd; Wilber; and Donald Bogema. Services were held Tuesday, February 19, 2008, Elmwood Christian Church, Rev. Mark Sheldon. Elmwood Cemetery. Memorials to Elmwood Christian Church or Elmwood Senior Center. Condolences to www.fusselmanwymore.com. LORETTA T. ROLAND Roland, Loretta T., 71, Lincoln, died Saturday, February 16, 2008. Born November 26, 1936, to Frank and Helen Oenbring at Pawnee City. Member, St. John's Catholic Church; Professional Photographers of Nebraska. Devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Everyone she met became a lifelong friend. With husband owned and operated Rolands Photography in Lincoln, 45 years. Enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Her laughter and quick smile was a testament to her love of life and positive outlook. Survivors: husband, Dan A.; daughters and son-in-law, Diane Welker, Clarksville, Tennessee, Julie McKeone, Papillion, Lisa and Troy Otto, Lincoln; sons and daughters-in-law, Mark and Pam Roland, Papillion; Brian Roland, Ceresco; and Matthew and Jenny Roland, Lee's Summit, Missouri; sister, Mildred Van Deventer, Humboldt; brothers, Cyril Oenbring, Colorado; Robert Oenbring, Bennet; and Edwin Oenbring, Humboldt; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Francis; Walter; Vernuss; and Wilbern Oenbring; and sister, Mary Kay Jensen. Services were held Tuesday, February 19, 2008, Lincoln, Father Lyle Johnson. Memorials to The Monarch House for Hospice Care. Condolences may be left at www.bmlfh.com. DORIS I. HEUSMAN Heusman, Doris Irene (Bogema), 79, Gardner, Kansas, formerly Adams, died Saturday, February 16, 2008. Born to the late Herman and Carrie (Shoemaker) Bogema at Panama. Lived and farmed in Johnson County; worked at Russell Stovers in Lincoln; was medication aide at Lakeview Rest Home in Firth. Moved to Eureka, Kansas, 1991, to live with daughter, Karen; in 2001 they moved to Gardner. Member, Latrobe Extension Club. Enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, gardening, raising flowers, doing yard work. Survivors: daughter, Karen Stilwell, Gardner, Kansas; sisters-inlaw, Marie Bogema and Alberta Bogema; two granddaughters; three great-granddaughters; many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Carrie Shoemaker Bogema; son, Richard Heusman; five brothers, Harvey, Marion, Lloyd, Wilbur and Donald Bogema; and one sister, Edna Pettigrew. Services were held Wednesday February 20, 2008, Adams. Highland Cemetery, Adams. Memorials to Hospice Care of Kansas with the funeral home in charge. GILBERT D. OLTMAN Oltman, Gilbert D., 56, Pickrell, died Saturday, February 16, 2008. Born October 15, 1951, Beatrice, graduated from Filley High School, 1969, and attended Fairbury Jr. College for two years. Farmer, and also worked for many years at Pickrell Farmers Union Coop. At the time of his death, worked at Farmers Coop in Plymouth. Married Barbara Doss, July 25, 1980, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Beatrice. Lifelong member, Zion Lutheran Church, rural Pickrell; had served on the church council. Also served as volunteer for Pickrell Fire Department. Survivors: wife, Barbara, Pickrell; step-daughter, Karla Lockwood, Catasauqua, Pennsylvania; stepson, Craig Doss, Lincoln; two step-grandchildren; mother, Angeline Oltman, Beatrice; brother and sister-in-law, Terry and DeAnn Oltman, Pickrell; motherin-law, Lila Brolhorst, Beatrice; two sisters-in-law, Cheryl Wirth and husband Stan, Beatrice, and Yvonne Brolhorst, Lincoln; brothers-in-law Dennis Brolhorst and wife Vicki, Beatrice, and Robert Brolhorst and wife Brenda, Lincoln;several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Services were held Tuesday, February 19, 2008, Zion Lutheran Church, rural Pickrell. Lincoln Memorial Park. Memorials in lieu of flowers to Zion Lutheran Church with Roger Daubendiek and Arlin Oltman in charge. Signatures and messages of condolence may be left online at www.foxfuneralhome.net. VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 3 Cook of the Week by Jill Hoefler Interim Holland pastor enjoys temporary home Talk to Randy Blumer for long and it will become clear what his greatest passion is. He says, “I am most passionate about living my life for God’s glory and proclaiming God’s Word.” It’s that passion that has shaped Randy’s occupation and even paved the way for him to live in this area. You might know Randy Blumer as “Pastor Randy.” He is currently wrapping up an interim ministry at the Holland Reformed Church. An interim pastor serves in the pastor position while a church is searching for a permanent pastor. It takes a special person to come in and fill that void and Pastor Randy obviously fits the bill quite well! Before his time at Holland Reformed, he served as the interim pastor for Firth Reformed Church. He didn’t have to move his things too far for that job change - and he won't for the next one either. Pastor Randy just recently signed a contract to be the interim pastor at the Pella Reformed Church just south of Panama. Pastor Randy had held pastorates in other states before deciding to enter “intentional interim ministry.” “The most unusual part of my job right now is the short duration of ministry in each church. The length of time is usually one to two years,” he said. Having grown up in Omaha, and then taking pastorates in other locations, Pastor Randy was happy to move back to Omaha when he became an interim pastor. Shortly thereafter, the interim at Firth Reformed Church opened. Pastor Randy shared, “I like being back in Nebraska. I have appreciated being able to do interim ministries so close to home. I’ve enjoyed making new friends in the context of these interim ministries.” Thinking back to his childhood, Pastor Randy remembers hanging out with friends in The Alley Sneak. The Alley Sneak was a narrow strip at the back of two adjoining home lots. It was lined with poplar trees on both sides. “We would sneak into this area and hang out between games in the neighborhood,” he said. “I honestly can’t remember what I wanted to be when I was 10 years old. So at this point, I probably just wanted to be a kid.” Something most people don’t know about Pastor Randy happened when he was some years older. “When I was in college, I accidentally got locked in a building in the Old Market district of Omaha,” he said. Now that could be a good lead in for a sermon! When Pastor Randy isn’t busy with church business and pastoring, he likes to exercise and play racquetball. He enjoys reading, walking, hiking – he also likes to drink coffee! That is a good trait in any pastor! If he could travel anywhere in the world, it would be to Israel. He says he would like to see the elimination of ethnic violence, persecution and terrorism in our world. Pastor Randy’s closest friends might describe him as humorous, relaxed and dependable. All traits well suited to the job of an interim pastor--and for a great life in general. Thanksgiving and Christmas are the top food holidays in Pastor Randy’s book. “Without a doubt! Turkey, dressing, etc., and the time spent with family members – priceless!” he said. “It provides a sense of well-being and inter-connectedness.” As for cooking tips, Pastor Randy shares this one for the men out there: “Guys, follow the directions! You can learn to cook!!” Check out the recipes Pastor Randy submitted and you will see he cooks quite well! Being an interim pastor is a special job for a special person, called by God to fill the role for a short amount of time. His duty is to provide leadership and vision and to pave the way for a permanent pastor – and then to move on to the next church with a new family of people to minister and grow to love. Pastor Randy Blumer has done all those things and more for two church families in close proximity – and the whole community is blessed that he has been here. Tex-Mex Lasagna From Pastor Randy Blumer 1 lb. ground beef ½ cup chopped onion 14 oz. can of diced tomatoes 8 oz. can of tomato sauce 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. chili powder ½ tsp. dried red pepper 15 oz. can red kidney beans – drained 10 lasagna noodles, cooked, drained 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese Optional: shredded lettuce, broken tortilla chips, cherry tomatoes halved Cook meat and onion until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain any fat. Stir in undrained tomatoes, tomato sauce, 1½ teaspoons salt, oregano, chili powder and red pepper. Simmer, uncovered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in beans. In a 9x13 inch baking dish/pan, arrange half of noodles crosswise. Cheesy Potato Soup Spread one fourth of the meat mixFrom Pastor Randy Blumer ture over the noodles. Sprinkle half 4 cups chicken broth of the cheese atop the meat. Place 5 medium potatoes – diced remaining noodles over top and 1 onion - chopped cover with remaining meat mixture. 2 T. chopped parsley Cover with remaining cheese. ½ tsp. salt Preheat oven to 350 degrees. ½ cup fat free half and half Cover baking dish with foil and place 1 T. butter/margarine in oven for 15 minutes. Uncover and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese bake 10 minutes more. ½ jar real bacon Can serve with optional ingredi1 cup Monterey Jack cheese Bring broth to simmer. Add pota- ents. toes and onion. Cover and simmer Sterling Zeeta Aye Club for 20 minutes. Add parsley and half The Zeeta Aye Club met on and half. Simmer another 5 minutes. Tuesday, February 12, at the home Add cheeses, butter and bacon. of Lois Schmidt. Strawberry Heat another 5 minutes. shortcake with all the trimmings was served from a Valentine motif table Apricot Baked Chicken by the hostess. Jackie Brammeier, From Pastor Randy Blumer president, led a short business meet4-8 boneless, skinless chicken ing with five members present. Lois breasts read the January club minutes and 1 small jar of apricot preserves Doris Behrens gave the treasurer’s 1 pkg. dry onion soup mix report. Lois then read several “spe8 oz. bottle fat free Dorothy Lynch cials” about “Realizing you’re growdressing ing older.” A number of memorable Preheat oven to 325 degrees. items were offered along with lots Place chicken in bottom of sprayed of interesting discussion. A Valen9x13 baking pan. Combine pre- tine heart plate and candy were serves, onion soup mix and salad treats to each member from the hostdressing. Spread over chicken. Bake ess as we departed for home. Rosie in preheated oven for 1 hour. Can Sugden will host the March meetbe served over rice. ing. Town Hall Meeting with Sta te Sen. Norm W allman State Wallman Please join Sen. Norm Wallman, of Cortland, for an open town hall meeting at Haven Manor, 730 Larkspur Dr. in Hickman, on Thursday, February 28, at 7 p.m. With the legislature at a midway point, Sen. Wallman hopes to provide constituents with an opportunity to learn more about developments at the Capitol. The senator will provide a brief synopsis of significant legislative developments, including his work for the session. He will then open the floor to a question-answer period. Please come with questions. The nature of the town hall is informal and will last about an hour. For more about this event, contact Marcia Matthies at 434-2680. Pastor Randy Blumer stands beside one of two cornerstones in the newly completed wing at the Holland Reformed Church. He will soon be filling the interim pastor position at Pella Reformed Church. Photo by Jill Hoefler Beef and Wild Rice Skillet From Pastor Randy Blumer 1 lb. beef round steak 1 pkg. Uncle Ben’s Brown and Wild Rice 1 T. veg. oil 1 red or yellow pepper – diced 1 ¾ cups water ½ tsp. salt 1 14-oz. can diced tomato 1 onion 1-2 tsp. Italian seasoning Cut meat into strips or bite-size pieces. Heat oil in 10-inch skillet, over high heat. Add meat and onion; cook, stirring frequently, just until no longer pink. Add water, salt, rice and contents of seasoning packet, add pepper and tomato; stir. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 30 minutes. Remove from heat. Let stand covered 5 minutes, or until desired consistency. Italian Chicken Pockets or Wraps From Pastor Randy Blumer 1 – 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 T. vegetable oil 1 pkg. French’s Italian spaghetti seasoning 1 green pepper – chopped ½ onion – chopped 1 cup water 1 small can tomato paste Cut chicken into bite-size pieces. In skillet, heat vegetable oil and brown chicken. Stir in package of French’s Italian spaghetti seasoning. Mix in green pepper and onion; then 1 cup water and small can of tomato paste. May need to add additional water if mixture is too thick. When thoroughly cooked, may be served in pita bread or tortilla wraps. To believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men-that is genius. -Ralph Waldo Emerson E! E FR You are invited to the 19th annual Seward Spring Show! February 29, March 1 & 2 (Fri. 4-8pm • Sat. 9am-4pm • Sun. 10am-3pm) Ag Pavilion, West Edge of Seward, NE Exhibits & Displays • Friday Night Fish Fry Live Entertainment • Pancake Feed • String Beans in Concert Arts & Crafts for the Kids • Fashion Show • Much More! Visit www.sewardne.com for full event schedule! Come Get Out of the Cold Mid-Winter Doldrums Sale • Feb. 16th - March 8th Indian Village Flea Market Emporium 3235 S. 13th • Lincoln • 423-5380 Open: Mon. - Sat. 9:30 - 6:00 • Sun. Noon - 5:00 Jayden Edward Fox, born February 22, 2007 Look who turns one, And oh, so much fun! He’s our sunshine when It’s cloudy and gray. He likes all music And he will dance for you, Wants you to join in too. He sure is our #1 Guy Bad Boy, Bad Boy! What you going to do? What you going to do? When we come for you… Happy 1st Birthday, Jayden We all love you! -Great-Grandma Fox Page 4 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 Norris School investigating online threats, knife incident Firth firefighter lives to save lives By Logan Seacrest When a Lincoln firefighter saves a life, he or she is given the Phoenix award. The name is appropriate. In Greek mythology, a Phoenix is a bird that is consumed by flame, only to be reborn from the ashes. In a way, firefighters make a career out of resurrection. Whether they are cutting apart a mangled car, plucking people from a burning building, or simply administering CPR, firefighters’ routine heroism gives people a second chance at life. Leo Benes, of Firth, has been a Leo Benes, of Firth, member of the Lincoln Fire has been awarded many Department for 23 years. He was Phoenix awards during recently promoted to Deputy Chief. his 23 years with the LinPhoto by Logan Seacrest coln Fire Department. Last November, his tireless service was recognized with a has been on fire – anything can be promotion from Captain of an engine the X factor that turns an already uncompany to Deputy Chief of Fire safe situation into a deadly one. “It’s usually dark, and it’s usually Suppression. As such, he will help lead a department with which he is full of smoke,” he said. “The unintimately familiar – Benes has served knowns are the most dangerous part. at ev e r y o n e o f Li nc ol n’s 1 4 My ultimate goal is that each and evfirehouses during his lengthy career. ery one of my firefighters comes back As one of two Deputy Chiefs on safely.” Benes has never lost a firefighter duty, Benes is responsible for commanding half of Lincoln’s first re- under his command. It should be said that firefighters sponders at any given time. Firefighters work in 24-hour shifts don’t charge into towering infernos and Benes usually arrives at Fire Sta- on a da i l y ba s is . M os t of a tion #1 downtown at 5:30 a.m. On firefighter’s typical day is spent on the day I visited, he had already over- maintenance of the department’s adseen a “vehicle extraction” after an vanced equipment and the fitness and training required to use it. accident on Highway 2. When Benes first started, the fire The job of a Deputy Chief is very similar to a manager in any large busi- department did not transport victims ness – making sure your subordinates to the hospital. Now, many are where they need to be, and have firefighters pull double duty as parawhat they need to do the job. The medics and EMTs – which require glaring difference, of course, is that daily in-house training regimens. They job performance in the fire depart- even have a SCUBA team ready to ment is not measured in dollars and respond to underwater emergencies. Benes said firefighters’ improved cents. It’s measured in lives saved and lost. skill sets have saved countless lives. “You’re not going to save every- In fact, he thinks that every high one,” Benes said. “Learning to deal school student should be taught bawith negative outcomes is the biggest sic CPR before graduation. “It’s a life saving skill that anybody can do,” he challenge.” The promotion has been, quite lit- said. erally, a trial by fire. Since assuming Preparedness is central to command as Deputy Chief, Benes firefighter culture. The Oklahoma has had to deal with some harrowing City bombing in 1995 and the Tersituations. Last fall, a UNL employee ror attacks on September 11, 2001, had a heart attack on campus. Her were a wake up call to fire departheart stopped and she was not ments across the nation. In response, breathing – a serious situation that is Lincoln became home to an elite unit known as a “Code Save” in the de- of firefighters called Urban Search partment. Benes’ team responded and Rescue. One of 28 such teams with a defibrillator and managed to in the country, they are trained to pull the woman back from the brink. deal with the worst of disaster zones The woman and her husband still locally, regionally and nationally. bring the firefighters ice cream on the Benes has traveled extensively as part of the Urban Search and Resweekends. Benes said that when firefighters cue Team. He searched for missing go into a burning building, informa- workers at a grain elevator explosion tion is their best friend. Each situa- in Wichita, Kansas. He did counter tion is unique. A building’s age, its terrorism preparation for the 2002 construction materials, how long it Olympics in Salt Lake City. He was dispatched to Biloxi, Mississippi, just a week after Hurricane Katrina. In May 2004, he was one of the first on the scene the night of the Hallam tornado. “I grew up in Cortland, so I was very familiar Hallam,” he said. “The damage was so complete, the town was unrecognizable at first. I still can’t believe there weren’t more fatalities that night.” Benes is well liked by his crews. “Leo is always enthusiastic. He’s always on the go,” said Lincoln firefighter John Masse. “He keeps everybody in a good mood even when the days are long and the work is tough.” Jeff Gottbreht credits Benes with teaching him the ins and outs of the job. “I learned the ropes from Leo. He taught me about the firefighter lifestyle early on.” Now that he is Deputy Chief, Benes is spending more time at the fire station than ever. In addition to the new job, he was recently accepted into the Executive Fire Officer Program, a four-year course of study that culminates in a research paper. Benes just returned from a two-week leadership course in Maryland as part of the program. Yet, somehow, he still has time left over to serve on the Firth volunteer fire department and spend time with his wife Bev, children and grandchildren. Toward the end of our interview, a speaker overhead sounded a low electronic tone. Benes immediately spun around in his chair and turned to face his glowing computer screen. Dispatch was reporting that a white male had called 911. Apparently his front teeth had been knocked out. The engine company slid down poles, put on gear and climbed into trucks. “It could be a fall, or it could be a fight,” Benes said. “It might be a dangerous situation. That element of the unknown keeps us on our toes.” By Mark Mahoney An incident in which a Norris High School student was cited for alleged terroristic threats Monday, February 11, is still under going an internal review by the school district. Dr. Roy Baker, Norris superintendent, said while he cannot speak about individual situations, there has been no change since last week in regard to a 17-year-old male student allegedly posting death threats on an online social networking site and bringing a knife to school. “Everything is progressing fine,” he said of the district’s investigation into the incident. Late Tuesday morning, February 12, Norris School alerted the Lancaster County Sheriff’s department that a 17-year-old student allegedly threatened two other students on his MySpace page and brought a knife to school. Capt. Gary Juilfs said the student, a junior, posted a message Saturday, February 9, that referred to two male students, one 17 and the other 16, who should take pleasure in their weekend “because it would be their last,” adding that they were going to be killed the following Monday. Two days later, the teenager came to Norris with a brown and silver Buck knife in a black sheath on his belt, Juilfs said. He showed the knife to other students, who alerted school staff. The student and his locker were searched; staff discovered the blade in his locker, according to sheriff’s reports. Deputies took the knife and sheath and an HP computer as evidence. The whole situation was caused by a bullying incident, according to the sheriff’s office. The teen was questioned and according to sheriff’s reports, he admitted to posting the comment online and bringing the knife to school. Deputy Joe Gehr, Norris’ school resource officer, got the call from Norris staff about the incident and cited the student for alleged terroristic threats; he then released him to his parents. If the teen had not posted the threatening message online, he would’ve been in much less of a mess, Juilfs said. Students at Norris are not allowed to access social networking sites while in school. This is the third online incident involving a student during the past six months in Lancaster County. A 14-year-old Raymond Central student and a 13-year-old Waverly Middle School student are both in juvenile court for pulling similar stunts in October and December, respectively. Online bullying has recently been discussed in TV specials and other national media, and is considered a growing, and disturbing, trend nationwide. This pattern is partially why the sheriff’s depart- Galaxy Digital Cable off ers: offers: 91 Channels, On-Screen Guide, 30 Channels of Digital Music, Access to Pay-Per-View, and Parental Controls Cable offers reliable service that stays on in bad weather, FREE service calls and a customer service center right here in America Call now & save $10 OFF for 3 months whether you want TV/Digital/Internet or all three!! 1-800-ENJO YTV (365-6988) 1-800-ENJOYTV Our 5 MEG Internet is amazingly fast and always on!! WE NOW HAVE WIRELESS MODEMS ment started the school resource officer program last year at schools across the county. Baker said as a matter of policy, if a person brings a weapon to school or makes threats toward students, it is grounds for expulsion. “Norris School District officials deal directly with events that occur at school or at school activities,” he said. “When school officials become aware of any terroristic threats outside of school made by a Norris student, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s department is notified.” Norris doesn’t have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to knives on school grounds, Baker said, but if one is intentionally brought to school, someone needs a good reason as to why he or she has it. After the school district’s own investigation into an incident, a due process hearing is held, in which an impartial examiner looks at the evidence and makes a ruling as to whether the student in question should be expelled or not, Baker said. “The process starts right away,” he said. Then Baker looks at the examiner’s ruling and makes his own judgment call. Baker said in his 11 years as Norris superintendent, there have been only a handful of incidents that have required a hearing and he has been satisfied with the examiner’s decision in each case. During the investigation and hearing, a student is suspended from school, Baker said. If the student’s family is not satisfied with the final ruling, they can appeal to the Board of Education, he added. Gage County bond issue placed on May 13 ballot County Courthouse upgrades At their regular meeting on February 13, the Gage County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution calling for a county-wide Bond Election for Courthouse Improvements to be held in conjunction with the primary election on May 13. If approved by voters, the $2.85 million bond would be applied toward renovation of the towering Gage County Courthouse in Beatrice, which holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Renovations would include some foundation work, a new roof, a new electrical and a new fire system, a geothermal energy system, and some new windows. The cost in increased property taxes would be about $40 a year on property valued at $100,000, over the five years the bond is being repaid. Lancaster County Official Attends State Workshop Larry Hudkins, Lancaster County Commissioner, completed a threeday workshop, Feb. 6-8, 2008, by the Nebraska Association of County Officials. The annual County Board Workshop, part of a continuing education and leadership development series, provided county commissioners and supervisors with over 12 hours of specialized training. More than 200 local officials from across the state participated in the event. Among the related topics addressed were Human Relations, Natural Resources, Open Meetings and Agenda Items-County Compliance, Tax Increment Financing and Economic Development, Updating Older Courthouses, and Stricter Indigent Determination and addressed some of the more significant proposals currently being considered by the Nebraska Legislature. Adams woman works to improve rural areas’ resource conservation and development VOICE By Mark Mahoney Conservationism comes natu- approves the project, it will then rally to Tammy Timms. assist in the task. Tammy, who lives in rural Adams, The R C & D organization also has been helping conserve and de- tries to teach people about resource velop natural resources since 1992 conservation and development and her job change three months through workshops and meetings, ago fits her nicely. In late Novem- Tammy said. One common topic is ber, she was named coordinator of noxious and invasive weeds. “We the Five Rivers R C & D, a nonprofit do a lot of education,” she said. association headquartered in One event Tammy sees in the fuTecumseh that works with people ture is a collection event for used and organizations to improve social, computers, which is scheduled for financial and ecological circum- April in her eight-county area. The stances in their communities. Five R C & D has an area plan it updates Rivers covers an area that has tree- every five years and there are many covered, rolling hills, abundant ongoing and upcoming projects the streams and a population of roughly organization plans to take part in, 85,000. like promoting tourism activities Tammy said she has enjoyed her along Nebraska’s Heritage Highway job every day since she was hired. (U.S. Highway 136) and supporting “It’s been a wonderful experience,” area counties’ drug abuse prevenshe said. “I’ve enjoyed meeting all tion programs. “There are a lot of the people.” neat things coming up,” she said. As coordinator of the Five Riv- “As society changes, we need to ers R C & D (Resource Conserva- be able to do the same.” tion and Development), Tammy carAs an R C & D coordinator, ries out whatever the organization’s Tammy said she’s has learned a lot. Tammy Timms, of rural council decides to do, oversees the “It’s been an eye-opener to what’s Adams, is at home in the activity and keeps in touch with going on,” she said. “The audience outdoor world. Her role as Five whomever is involved. The group’s is bigger, the projects more varying. Rivers R C & D coordinator fits projects focus on one of five areas Before, I worked with landowners her belief of conservationism – economic development, natural on conservation issues and made perfectly. resources improvement, community contracts with farmers on conserPhoto by Mark Mahoney improvement, education, and recre- vation. I’m outside of that realm, ation and tourism. They often in- but I can still work with farmers on all. If people would like more inforclude working with local govern- conservation.” mation on R C & D organizations, ment leaders, usually city and In Nebraska, there are 12 R C & go to www.nercd.com. county officials, and through vari- D groups across the state, and 375 Council members are from the ous activities, the R C & D helps nationwide; they were established counties and Natural Resources Discitizens gain actricts within an R C & D’s boundcess to a netaries, Tammy said. They also work of public have at-large members who repand private serresent “area communities, farmvices. ers, ranchers, bankers, business Tammy said personnel, homemakers, local ofher job lets her ficials and nonprofit groups,” work on large according to Nebraska Resource community and Conservation. projects in rural Tammy said her job has let her areas. Her dusee the dedication of people to a ties are more dicause, such as conservationism. verse than her She added that her R C & D has previous occu- The state has 12 R C & D organizations and there been involved in over 250 pation as a con- are 375 across the country. projects since 1993, the Map courtesy of www.nercd.com organization’s first year. “They servationist for the Natural Reput in all that time to volunteer,” sources and Conservation Service by Congress to empower rural she said. “I’m impressed with the (NRCS), part of the United States people to help themselves. Accord- number of projects and their impact Department of Agriculture. With ing to Nebraska Resource and Con- on communities.” NRCS, Tammy worked in Beatrice servation, these groups “are set up A native of Boelus, a small town and Wilber for over 14 years. R C & by local citizens to help people im- in central Nebraska, Tammy said her D organizations are supported by prove the quality of life in rural com- rural background and her Bachelor’s NRCS with personnel, office space munities in Nebraska through devel- degree in general agriculture with and equipment, and sometimes fi- opment of human and natural re- an emphasis in business from UNL nancial and technical assistance for sources.” These organizations are led her to the kind of career she has projects, so it was an easy transi- self-directed and locally led; they today, even though she wasn’t tion for Tammy. aware of conservation efforts made are not units of government. If government officials come to Each R C & D is run by a local by farmers growing up. She started her for help finding money for a board, which defines problems and at NRCS after graduating from colproject, but don’t want R C & D sup- sets priorities for assistance. They lege in 1994. “I liked what I was port, she’ll point them in the appro- also offer instructions, planning and doing there,” she said. “I became priate direction, Tammy said. She execution of chosen projects within supportive of conservation.” added that grants come from a vari- their borders. While Five Rivers With all her years at the NRCS, ety of places. “It is a broad net- represents the very southeast cor- Tammy said she hopes she can be work,” she said of the R C & D’s ner of Nebraska, Lancaster and successful in her role as Five Rivers connections. “Communities can Cass counties are covered by the R C & D coordinator. “I want to bring us their own ideas. Some Nebraska Great Plains R C & D, make a difference in the community,” counties do their own grants.” which oversees nine counties over- she said. If one of the eight counties in the organization’s area - Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson and Saline - wants If your cabinetry to do an environmental project like is dirty, sticky or collecting used tires or household lifeless, call us. Usually in 1-2 hazardous waste, it can either write 75% to 80% days, we’ll have its own grant to the state DepartOFF THE COST OF TOTAL your kitchen REPLACEMENT WITH OUR ment of Environmental Quality or looking and RECONDITIONING SERVICES ask the R C & D for assistance on working like new! Contact: the writing of the grants, Tammy 402-466-2282 said. If the association is asked to Over 300 Independently kitchentuneup.com Owned & Operated Franchises help support a project, its council first votes on whether the activity Cabinet & Wood Reconditioning • Cabinet Refacing • Custom Cabinets fits into its area plan; if the board NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 5 More and more, the Cornhusker football program has demonstrated that some of the long-remembered “traditions” are returning. The recruiting tradition of “Like Father, Like Son” will continue as part of the game plan. Sure signs that intrigue Husker fans, for example, are the widespread reports that the son of Dean Steinkuhler is slated to join the 2008 Husker recruit class. Dean is renowned as an All American guard, Outland/Lombardi winner and member of the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame after his Husker career (198182-83). His No. 1 son, Tyler, is a twotime defensive lineman letter winner with the Huskers. Latest good news: son, Baker, the highest honoree among Nebraska prep ranks, will join his brother and the Huskers this fall. Another proud father will send his son to the Husker team. Barney Cotton, new offensive line coach on Bo Pelini’s staff, not only has returned to Lincoln after earning letters at guard (1976-77-78) and serving on Frank Solich’s 2003 coaching staff, but he will have his son, Ben, on the Husker tight end roster in 2008. Father-son Huskers have brought considerable talent to Nebraska’s football success through the years. Old Fox may miss a few of the duos—so feel free to remind me of any who are missed—but here’s my best shot at some notables (Dad listed first): JOE BLAHAK (CB, 1970-71-72; son Chad (CB, 1995-96). JIMMY BURROW (DB, 1974-75); sons Jamie (LB, 1998-99-00-01) and Dan (DB, 2003-04). RALPH DAMKROGER (E, 194748-49); sons Maury (FB, 1971-72-73) and Steve (LB, 1979-80-81-82). TONY DAVIS (FB, 1973-74-75); son Josh (IB, 2001-02-03). CLETUS FISCHER (HB, 1945-4647-48); sons Pat (DB, 1972-73; Tim (DB, 1976-77-78); Dan (CB, 1980). Bonus: Bro’s Ken (HB, 1948-49); Rex (DB, 1955); Pat (HB/QB, 1958-59-60). BILL KOSCH (DB, 1969-70-71); son Jesse (P, 1995-96-97). BOB LINGENFELTER (OT, 197475-76); son Newton (OT, 2005) JERRY LIST (TE, 1970-71-72); son Gregg (TE, 1996-97-98-99). DICK McCASHLAND (C, 195657-58); son Mike (S, 1982-83-84). ARDEN MEANS (G, 1943-47-4849); son Andy (DB, 1978-79-80). JOHNNY RODGERS (WB, 70-7172); son Terry (IB, 1986-87-88-89). TOM RUUD (LB, 1972-73-74; and sons Barrett (LB, 2001-02-03-04); Bo (LB, 2004-05-06-07). STEVE RUNTY (QB, 1972-73); son Jay (CB, 1988). FREEMAN WHITE JR. (SE, 196364-65); son Freeman White III (SS, 1989-90). Let Old Fox know if you have some candidate I’ve missed. Meanwhile, we’ll keep our eyes open for additional Husker Family pipelines. “Parents Forever” class helps parents help children through divorce By Maureen Burson UNL Extension Educator Approximately half of American children will experience a parent’s divorce before the age of 18. In Lancaster County, 1,500 parents experience divorce and/or custody issues annually. How families choose to resolve the conflicts directly impact children’s adjustment to the divorce. Since 1999, UNL Extension and Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center have teamed up to offer monthly Parents Forever/Kids Talk About Divorce classes designed for families experiencing divorce or custody issues. Parents Forever is the only class of its kind offered in Lin- coln which offers a class for children at the same location and time. How to register: Parents Forever/Kids Talk About Divorce classes are held monthly on Thursday evenings, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Lancaster Extension Education Center, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln. Upcoming dates are: February 21; March 20; April 17; May 15; June 26 Cost is $40 per parent, with no charge or children’s participating. To register, call Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center at 219-7000 or go to www.saintelizabethonline.com/ calendar.php Printed from The Nebline QUICK KITCHEN MAKEOVER SAVE Peace Of Mind For Your Piece Of Earth. You’ll always worry about the weather, but with Farmers Mutual Hail there’s no need to worry about the integrity of your crop insurance company. For local claims service and more than 100 years of financial stability, call your local Farmers Mutual Hail agent. Sales closing deadline is March 15th! Nebraska Crop Insurance Agency, Inc. Darrell and Howard Rains - agents 615 Dorsey St. • Beatrice, NE 68310 223-2694 • 888-461-1041 - toll free Look For The Cloud Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance Company Page 6 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 Board office at the Firth Community Center. Normal notification procedures were observed. The meeting was called to order by the chairman at 7:00 p.m. and the following members were present: Dave Hobelman, Paul TenHulzen, Diane Wieskamp, Sara Stevenson, and Thelma DeYong. Absent: none. Dave Hobelman presided and the Village Clerk-Treasurer recorded the minutes. The Clerk-Treasurer noted the location of the Open Meetings Act posted in the meeting room for public viewing. The minutes of the previous meeting were presented and were declared approved as presented. The financial report was presented by the Village Treasurer and it was moved by Thelma DeYong, seconded by Paul TenHulzen, to approve the financial report as given. Roll call vote: 4 YEAS, no NAYS. Motion carried. The current bills were presented. It was moved by Diane Wieskamp, seconded by Paul TenHulzen, to approve payment of current bills. Roll call vote: 4 YEAS, no NAYS. Motion carried. The January 2008 paid bills are as follows: Salaries 4350.30; Payroll Taxes 335.18; CountrySide Cooperative 418.39; First National Bank (Village Credit Card) 877.60; Huenink Refuse 3038.50; Lancaster County Sheriff's Office 716.06; NE Dept. of Revenue 724.62; Nebraska Tire 126.47; Norris Public Power 1372.58; Office Depot 49.17; Utility Equipment Company 1500.00; Voice News 56.62; Wal-Mart 63.91; Windstream 186.29; Water Deposit Refund 14.16; Employee Reimbursements 194.19; Checks $25 and under (2) 19.04; Total 14043.08 Dave Hobelman declared the regular meeting closed and opened the One and Six Year Plan Hearing. present in order to make any decisions on the property. Discussion was tabled until the next Board meeting Helmink could attend. Sara Stevenson gave an update on the website and stated that a web address has been assigned. Committee reports were given. The meeting was adjourned. Michael A. Hoefler Village Clerk-Treasurer FREEMAN SCHOOL PROCEEDINGS PROCEEDINGS, REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, DANIEL FREEMAN Notice of Filing of Complaint PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 34 for Dissolution of Marriage ADAMS, AND FILLEY, NEBRASKA, Ronald C. Hutchins, Plaintiff FEBRUARY 11, 2008. SAID MEETv. Janis C. Hutchins, Defendant ING HELD AFTER POSTING OF NOTICE AND IN ACCORDANCE To: Janis C. Hutchins, Defendant WITH THE AGENDA KEPT CURRENT IN THE OFFICE OF THE SUPlease take notice that Ronald C. PERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS. Hutchins has filed a Complaint for DisMeeting called to order at 7:03 p.m. solution of Marriage in the District Court The following members were present of Lancaster County, Nebraska. Mr. for roll call: Buhr, Ideus, Dorn, Parde, Hutchins is praying for a dissolution of Finkner, and Remmers. his marriage to you and for any and Motion made by Ideus and seconded other further relief as allowable by law. by Parde to approve the consent agenda Unless you file an Answer to this Comwhich includes: acknowledge and accept plaint by the 3rd day of April, 2008, a Agenda for meeting, approve minutes Decree may entered against you. of previous meeting, approve financial reports and approve claims in the James H. Hoppe, #15691 amount of Three hundred seven thou140 North 8th Street, Suite 250 sand seven hundred sixty-seven dollars The Apothecary and thirty-four cents ($307,767.34). Lincoln, NE 68508 Vote For: Dorn, Finkner, Ideus, Parde, (402) 474-3884 Remmers, and Buhr. Vote Against: None. Motion Carried. Feb. 14, 21 & 28 - Wk 34-36 Motion made by Finkner and seconded by Buhr to enter into an agreeLEGAL NOTICE ment with Farmers Cooperative for TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: 6500 gallons of diesel fuel at the cost of Notice is hereby given of the filing $3.04 per gallon minus 24 cents tax of a petition on February 13, 2008, in (bringing the school's cost to $2.80 per the District Court of Lancaster County, gallon.) Vote For: Ideus, Parde, Nebraska, Case No. CI 08-589, by MINUTE RECORD Remmers, Buhr, Dorn, and Finkner. Sandra Ixa Potter to change her name VILLAGE OF FIRTH Vote Against: None. Motion carried. from Sandra Ixa Potter to Sandra Ixa ANNUAL ONE-AND-SIX YEAR Motion made by Ideus and seconded Plata-Potter. The petition will be heard STREET HEARING by Dorn to enter into an agreement with in Courtroom No. 33 at 575 S. 10th February 5, 2008 Sterling School for Drivers Education Street, 3rd floor, Lincoln, NE on TuesThe annual One-and-Six Year Street Instruction at the cost of $800 for classday, April 8, 2008, at 8:45 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the same may be Hearing was called to order by Dave room time and $160 per student. Vote Hobelman at 7:30 p.m. The Village For: Parde, Remmers, Buhr, Dorn, heard. Clerk recorded the proceedings. The Finkner, and Ideus. Vote Against: None. Patricia A. Knapp #17718 Anneliese Wright, Senior Certified Law plans as compiled by the Olsson Asso- Motion carried. ciates Engineering Firm were mailed in Motion made by Remmers and secStudent advance of the meeting. Five board onded by Finkner to set drivers educaAttorneys for Petitioner CIVIL CLINICAL LAW PROGRAM members, David Hobelman, Sara tion student fees at $225 for Freeman University of Nebraska College of Law Stevenson, Paul TenHulzen, Thelma students and $275 for non-Freeman stuDeYong and Diane Wieskamp were dents. Vote For: Buhr, Dorn, Finkner, 172 Welpton Courtroom present. After reviewing the plans, the Ideus, Parde, and Remmers. Vote Lincoln, NE 68583-0902 Village Chairman closed the public hear- Against: None. Motion carried. (402) 472-3271 ing and opened the regular meeting. Motion made by Parde and seconded It was moved by Paul TenHulzen, by Remmers to enter into an agreement 4 Weeks - Feb. 21, 28, Mar 6, 13 seconded by Diane Wieskamp to pass with TruGreen Chemlawn for 4 lawn resolution 2-2008 accepting the one- fertilizing and weed control applications Mattson, Ricketts, Davies, and-six year plan. Roll call vote: 4 for $450.41. Vote For: Dorn, Finkner, Stewart & Calkins Ideus, Parde, Remmers, and Buhr. Vote 134 South 13th Street, Suite 1200 YEAS, no NAYS. Motion carried. The public hearing was closed and Against: None. Motion carried. Lincoln, Nebraska 68508 the regular meeting was opened by Motion made by Ideus and seconded 103 Locust Chairman Hobelman. by Dorn to enter into executive session Hickman, Nebraska 68372 Bruce and Deb Docter were present at 9:08 p.m. for the purpose of discusto discuss the Ballpark Association be- sion of personnel issues. Vote For: NOTICE OF INFORMAL coming a Village entity. The Clerk-Trea- Parde, Remmers, Buhr, Dorn, Finkner, PROBATE AND INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL surer stated that an annual report from and Ideus . Vote Against: None. Mothe Ballpark Association would be nec- tion carried. REPRESENTATIVE, AND essary; the checking account would beMotion made by Finkner and secNOTICE TO CREDITORS come part of the Village accounting sys- onded by Remmers to return to regular tem and subject to an annual audit; and session at 9:42 p.m. Vote For: Buhr, County Court of the Village Chairman and the Clerk-Trea- Dorn, Finkner, Ideus, Parde, and Lancaster County, Nebraska surer would need added to the account Remmers. Vote Against: None. MoEstate No. PR08-133 signature card(s) at the bank. After dis- tion carried. of Evelyn K. TeSelle, deceased cussion was completed, it was moved The meeting adjourned at 9:43 p.m. Dr. Gary Hammack Notice is hereby given that on Feb- by Diane Wieskamp, seconded by Secretary ruary 15, 2008, in said court, in Lin- Thelma DeYong to accept the Ballpark February Claims: Accurate Commucoln, Nebraska, the registrar issued a Association as a Village entity with the written statement of informal probate Chairman, Clerk-Treasurer, and a nications, elevator call service Jan 27of the Last Will and Testament of Ballpark Association representative on F, 50.00; ACT, Plan results/reporting/ Evelyn K. TeSelle, deceased, and ap- the signature card for any accounts. labels/, 294.40; Adams Post Office, pointed Sandra Kay Wedding as per- Roll call vote: 5 YEAS, no NAYS. trust deposit, 200.00; Adams Super Foods, invoices 1-2 to 1-30-08, 117.53; sonal representative of the estate. The Motion carried. A permit application was received Adams Village, water/sewer, 824.00; address of the personal representative is PO Box 63, Firth, NE 68358. Credi- from Russ Dloughy to build a house on Advance Acceptance/All-Lines Leasing, tors must file their claims with this court the property known as 28300 Brookie sweeper/scrubber, 589.35; Advanta on or before the 21st day of April, 2008 Place, Firth Meadows, Firth, NE. It Bank Corp, misc, 258.68; AFLAC, Jan was recommended by the Planning plan admin, 120.00; Alltel, service to 2/ or be forever barred. All persons having a financial or Commission to approve a zoning per- 11/08 Michl/Weber, 83.90; American property interest have the right to de- mit subject to the Development Permit Red Cross, First Aid/CPR D. Bouwens, mand notice in accordance with the pro- completed by February 12th. It was 40.00; B.A.B. Inc, Roy G Behrens Convisions of Section 30-2413, Reissue moved by Sara Stevenson, seconded by struction, Dec snow removal, 1,055.00; Diane Wieskamp to approve the zon- Blue Valley Door Co Inc, bus barn door Revised Statutes of Nebraska, 1995. ing permit as presented subject to re- service, 101.50; Charles Boyce, bus Dated: February 15, 2008. ceiving the Development Permit by washes, 20.00; Marie Busboom, bus Nathalie Fitzgerald Deputy Clerk of the County Court February 12th. Roll call vote: 5 YEAS, wash, 10.00; Susan Buss, ice cream no NAYS. Motion carried. cones, 12.00; Cengage Learning, SPED The Board discussed the commu- business math CD, 264.24; City Creek 3 weeks - Feb. 21, 28 & Mar. 6 nity center remodeling project and other Press, SPED - Classroom Addition kit, small items for the community center 139.83; Cash-Wa Distributing, food, BENNET as requested by Jill Hoefler. 720.52; Dissmeyer Towing, Jan fuel / CEMETERY ASSOCIATION The Board discussed the need for service, 1,514.91; Laurie Dorn, SPED NOTICE OF MEETING The Bennet Cemetery Association additional insurance. The Board agreed J.Moody introductory brea, 40.03; Annual Meeting Tuesday February 26, to insure the water tower at this time. Eakes Office Plus, staples for copier, 2008 7 P.M. at Ralph Steward Home. The Chairman asked the Clerk-Trea- 62.00; Earthgrains Co, bread, 322.36; surer to contact Dan James to have the Egan Supply Co., ppr towels / polish / insurance added for the water tower. cleaner, 273.20; Educational Serv. Unit VILLAGE OF FIRTH The Board discussed the Junked #5, SPED and other, 9,570.78; EducaMINUTE RECORD Vehicle and Parking Ban ordinances. tional Service Unit #6, internet, 408.64; REGULAR MEETING The well controls were tabled until Farmers Cooperative Company, diesel, February 5, 2008 2,199.19; FES/Foundation for EducaThe regular meeting of the Chairman the next Board meeting. A letter from Kirk Helmink regard- tional Services Inc (, SOCS website to and Village Board of Trustees of the Village of Firth, Nebraska was convened ing his property on 6th & Everett 6/30/08, 2,400.00; Freeman Revolving in open and public session on the 5th Streets was read and discussed. It was (Activity) Fund, misc, 324.95; Freeman day of February, 2008 in the Village decided that Helmink would need to be Public Schools, band trip fuel, 133.37; In the District Court of Lancaster County, Nebraska Case No. CI07-5256 Shelley Gill, Authori visit -, 123.20; Gramann Insurance Agency, Treasurers Bond 2008, 125.00; Gary Hammack, mileage/expenses, 6.00; Harding & Shultz, legal services, 172.00; Harris, personnel forms, 84.32; Holiday Inn of Kearney, Band lodging, 284.85; Hometown Leasing, copiers/printers, 2,085.72; J W Pepper & Son Inc., xmas music, 182.00; Gordon Kroese, bus wash, 10.00; Kathleen A Laughlin, Trustee, rewrite misdirected check, 925.00; Linweld, argon - Ag, 77.60; Meadow Gold Dairies, milk, 2,279.70; Menards - Lincoln, materials / bolts/ bits/anchors, 60.88; Bob Michl, expenses / mileage, 120.45; Nebraska Association Of School Boards, Legislative Issues conf, 425.00; Nebraska Safety Center, Level I waiver test, 25.00; NE DOL / Boiler Inspection Program, boiler inspection, 72.00; Nebraska Food Distribution Program, food, 674.16; Nebraska Library Commission, SIRS researcher oct 07-June 08, 640.00; Norris Public Power, electricity, 4,319.98; One Source The Background Check Company, background checks, 107.00; Online Assessment Management System LLC, Classroom Grading, STAR/ NCLB/G, 1,100.00; Orkin Pest Control, Jan service, 62.48; Pegler Sysco Food Service Co, food, 4,649.67; Post Rock Gas LLC, Nov 1-Dec 1 usage, 3,059.28; Region V Services, Dec SPED services, 2,998.80; School Lunch Solutions (Fair Market Inc), food, 108.00; Schuerman Welding Inc, Carbon steel - Ag, 113.90; Schwarz Paper Company, large trash bags, 493.50; Voice News, Jan proceedings, 49.75; Windstream, phones, 145.42; Woods Tennis Center, tennis balls for chair legs, 72.00; Worthington Direct, cork strips, 397.80; Total $48,200.84. HALLAM BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES February 4, 2008 Hallam Auditorium ALL PROCEEDINGS HEREAFTER SHOWN WERE TAKEN WHILE THE CONVENED MEETING WAS OPEN TO ATTENDANCE OF THE PUBLIC. The meeting was called to order by the Chairperson Pro-tem; Tom Suppa at 7:00 p.m. with an explanation of the Open Meetings Laws and location of the poster was given. All motions were approved during roll call unanimously unless otherwise noted and this is a condensed version of the minutes for publishing. The original minutes are available in the Clerk's Office, Post Office and the Bank. PRESENT: CHAIRPERSON PROTEM: Tom Suppa TRUSTEES: Rob Stimple, Errol Wahlstrom ABSENT: Derek Dragoo, Gary Vocasek Chairperson Pro-tem, Tom Suppa, entertained a motion to call the public hearing to order at 7:04 p.m. Motion by Wahlstrom seconded by Stimple to open the public hearing at 7:04 p.m. Motion by Wahlstrom seconded by Stimple to close the 1-6 year road plan public hearing at 7:06 p.m. Motion by Wahlstrom seconded by Stimple to approve the 1-6 year road plan. Motion by Stimple seconded by Wahlstrom to approve Resolution #08001. Resolution #08-001; Whereas, the City Street Superintendent has prepared and presented a One Year and Six Year Plan for Street Improvement for the Village of Hallam, Nebraska, and Whereas, a public meeting was held on the 4th day of February, 2008, to present this plan and there were no objections to said plan. Motion by Wahlstrom seconded by Stimple to approve the HHS final review fee of 19.25. Motion by Stimple seconded by Wahlstrom to approve the flag retirement ceremony on June 14th at the ball park. Motion by Wahlstrom seconded by Stimple to donate $500.00 to the Hallam Foundation for the defibrillator. Motion by Wahlstrom and seconded by Stimple to accept the Auditorium agreement on June 28th with Lancaster County Emergency Management. Motion made by Wahlstrom seconded by Stimple to approve payment of $85,084.20 to Rogge. Motion by Stimple to approve the $200.00 with the agreement from the Foundation to pay ½ of the training because it is beneficial to the Village and it would save the town a lot of money if another disaster were to happen. The motion dies due to discussion Motion by Stimple seconded by Suppa to pay the $200.00 with the commitment from the Foundation to pay ½ for Dawn to attend the debris management training classes. Stimple-yes, Wahlstrom-no, Suppa-yes. Motion by Wahlstrom, seconded by to Stimple to enter into an executive session at 7:47 p.m. for the purpose of discussing litigation. Motion by Wahlstrom, seconded by to Stimple to adjourn the executive session at 7:48 p.m. Steve Reisdorff stated that the Board had met briefly in executive session and no action was taken at this time. Motion by Stimple, seconded by Wahlstrom to approve consent agenda (January 10, 2008, minutes, Treasurer's report, regular & special claims-bills). Motion by Stimple, seconded by Wahlstrom to adjourn at 8:23 p.m. Next Regular Meeting: Monday, March 3, 2008 I, the undersigned, Village Clerk for the Village of Hallam, Nebraska, hereby certify that all of the subjects included in the foregoing proceedings were contained in the agenda for the meeting, kept continually current and available for public inspection at the office of the Village Clerk; that such subjects were contained in said agenda for at least twenty-four hours prior to said meeting; that the said minutes were in written form and available for public inspection within ten working days prior to the convened meeting of said body; that all news media requesting notification concerning the meeting of said body were provided advance notification of the time, and place of said meeting and the subject to be discussed in said meeting. Victoria Polak The following bills/claims were approved on February 4, 2008 PAYROLL 2,875.77; PAYROLL TAXES 747.58; FIRST STATE BANK 15.00; NE DEPT OF REVENUE: PAYROLL TAX 289.35; POST MASTER 41.00; NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE 559.63; MEDEA HENKE 75.00; HALLAM BALL FUND 500.00; AM LEGAL PUBLISHING CORP 1,378.00; DEAN AND/ OR BARB ROCKE 100.00; EAGLE SERVICES 75.00; INDUSTRIAL SERVICES 55.00; GALAXY CABLE 5.00; NORRIS PUBLIC POWER 1,409.15; NE DEPT OF HHS 19.95; WINDSTREAM 400.88; VOICE NEWS 61.53; JOURNAL STAR 11.78; AQUILA 900.48; NE PUBLIC HEALTH ENVRN. LAB 48.00; EAKES 103.47; KONICA MINOLTA USA INC 82.67; USA BLUE BOOK 38.67; HWS 217.13; LANCASTER COUNTY SHERIFF 438.58; NE RURAL WATER ASSOC 100.00; AMSAN 10.55; BLUE VALLEY AG SERVICES 130.00; JEO 300.00; HARDING & SHULTZ, P.C., L.L.O. 6,909.01; ERROL WAHLSTROM: SUPPLIES 21.07; MOORMEIR TRUCKING 2,145.00; ROGGE GENERAL CONTRACTORS 85,084.20; TOTAL CLAIMS 105,148.45 MINUTES OF THE HICKMAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 22, 2008 Mayor Jim Hrouda called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and referenced the meeting recording process, optional sign in sheet, and open meeting law posting. Council Members, Dave Dykmann, Kim Hoesing, Richard Harms, Doug Hanson, Steve Noren, Mike Cejka, and Mayor Jim Hrouda were all present for Roll Call. Notice of the meeting and agenda was given to the Mayor and all members of the Governing Body prior to the meeting. Notice of the meeting was distributed or posted to The Voice News, City Offices, U.S. Post Office - Hickman, and Jack-n-Jill. CONSENT AGENDA The City Administrator reviewed line item content of the new Accounts Payable/Claims report with Governing Body. Motion by Council Member Hanson and seconded by Council Member Noren to approve the Consent Agenda as presented in the report to include all infrastructure cost items reimbursable back to the City. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. PROCLAMATIONS/INTRODUCTION/PRESENTATIONS Mr. Bruce Dart & Mr. Steve Beal from Lincoln - Lancaster County Health Department were present to discuss services and programs offered by the Health Department for the rural and Hickman areas. OPEN FORUM NONE. REPORTS The Parks, Recreation, & Recycling report was presented. It was noted that a meeting with Norris Baseball staff would be in February & Summer Baseball coordinators meeting was coming up. Also discussed in the report was Continued on Page 7 Continued from Page 6 improvements and organization to the 5th Street shop. Motion by Council Member Noren and seconded by Council Member Cejka to approve the Parks, Recreation & Recycling report. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. The Public Work Director's report was presented. Noted in the report were recent water line breaks and continuation of main flushing. Also discussed was the need for a good inventory system with the recent organization of the 5th Street Shop. Motion by Council Member Hoesing and seconded by Council Member Dykmann to approve the Public Works Department Report. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. Planning Commission Chairman Arnold Mendenhall was present and discussed the Planning Commission Report for the January 15, 2008 meeting. He noted that a public hearing was held for input on sign regulation modifications. Mr. Mendenhall noted the issue would be discussed further at the next Planning Commission Meeting on February 5, 2008. Motion by Council Member Harms and seconded by Council Hanson to approve the Planning Commission Report. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. The Reading Center report was presented by Ms. Doreen Droge. She discussed the success of the Tour of Homes fund raiser. Ms. Droge also noted an upcoming book sale and donations of unused books. She noted that attendance was down and it was most likely due to the cold weather. Motion by Council Member Hoesing and seconded by council member Dykmann to approve the Reading Center Report. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. PUBLIC HEARINGS None UNFINISHED BUSINESS Appointment of Planning Commission Member and Board of Adjustment Member were tabled until the next meeting. A report was presented to the Mayor and City Council regarding Mr. Parker of 108 Chestnut. Mr. Parker had previously requested the City to change the floodplain and Base Flood Elevations of his property. It was presented in a letter from City Engineer/ Olsson's Associates that the City was not required to remap the requested area of 108 Chestnut Street. Mr. Parker's recent survey that he presented to FEMA showed his house was not the required one foot above FEMA's Base Flood Elevation and his request was denied by FEMA. No other action taken on this item. City Administrator presented information on oil testing required for the equipment at the new Waste Water Treatment Plant. It was noted that the oil samples had to be test at a prescribed interval for the warranty on the equipment. No other action taken on this item. City Administrator discussed denied curb cut at 700 Autumn Parkway. No other information was presented on this item. NEW BUSINESS City Engineer James Burroughs presented the draft to the 1 & 6 year street plan. It was noted that no changes need to be made to the draft 1 & 6 year street plan for the scheduled public hearing on February 12, 2008. Mr. Burroughs also discussed the completion of the waste water treatment plant. He noted that 3% of the total cost was for change orders. Some of the change orders were upgrades and some of the change orders were for unknown problems. No action was taken on this item. Adding authorized signers for the City accounts was considered. Motion by Council Member Harms and sec- onded by Council Member Hoesing to have additional authorized signers of Council President Doug Hanson and Council Member Dave Dykmann to be added to the existing account signature cards. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. Ordinance #2008-1 was introduced and read by title by the Deputy City Clerk. Attached to Ordinance #2008-1 was the developer agreement including a bond for a portion of paying that was not completed. Motion by Council Member Hoesing and seconded by Council member Dykmann to waive the three reading rule. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. Motion by Council Member Hoesing and seconded by Council Member Dykmann to approve Ordinance #2008-1 on first and final reading. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. CITY ADMINISTRATORS REPORT City Administrator discussed with the Mayor and City Council upcoming events including; Voice News Animal Run February 2, joint meeting with the Lancaster County Commissioners scheduled on February 14th, City Retirement Reception scheduled for February 20th, and the Midwinter Conference February 25th and 26th. He gave an update on City infrastructure projects including, continuation of hydrant flushing, water system & rate studies, and out street light repair/replacement. City Administrator discussed the Economic Development Program and upcoming Home Builders and garden show February 7, thru February 10, 2008. The City Administrator noted that vacant Parks & Recreation position was posted and the vacant Public Works position would be posted. City Administrator noted that the Lancaster County had reviewed the City's proposal for relocating utilities along 68th Street for the viaduct project. Motion by Council Member Dykmann and seconded by Council Member Hanson to authorize the Mayor to sign the final agreement between the City of Hickman and Lancaster County on the Utility Relocation and viaduct construction project #C55-S-401(6). The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. Motion by Council Member Noren and seconded by Council Member Cejka to approve City Administrators report. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Cejka, Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. GOVERNING BODY COMMENTS AND CORRESPONDENCE It was noted that the Old Settler account would be use for possible Trail lighting. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion by Council Member Dykmann and seconded by Council Member Noren to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personal matters at 9: 19pm. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Cejka, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY" Dykmann,. Motion passed 51. Motion by Council Member Dykmann and seconded by Council Member Cejka to reconvene in regular session at 9:38pm. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Cejka, Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. Motion by Council Member Dykmann and seconded by Council Member Hoesing to allow City Administrator proceed with Public Works Restructuring plan, Organizational Chart modifications, and to place job announcements for existing Public Works Vacancies of (1) City Facilities & Maintenance Director & (2) City Utilities Floodplain & Codes Director. The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The following Council Members voted "NAY". None. Motion passed 6-0. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Council Member Cejka and seconded by Council Member Hanson to adjourn at 9:39pm. T The following Council Members voted "YEA". Dykmann, Hoesing, Harms, VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 7 Hanson, Cejka, and Noren. The follow- .1154 ing Council Members voted "NAY". (d) Next 9,000 KWH, per KWH at None. Motion passed 6-0. .0812 Emily G. Bausch - Deputy Clerk (e)Over 10,000 KWH, per KWH at Jim Hrouda - Mayor .0639 APPROVED February 12, 2008 C. INDUSTRIAL (Published - The Voice - 2.21.08) Applicable when consumption exceeds 15,000 KWH per month and a CLAIMS demand meter has been installed. GOVERNING BODY MEETING 1. 30 minute demand charge at JANUARY 22, 2008 $11.00 for Summer Rate usage and $9.86 Advanced Office Automation, Copies for Winter Rate usage: PLUS $24.44; B & K Enterprises, Preconnect 2. An energy charge of: Deposit $1,000.00; Berns & Tate, PC, (a)The first 200 KWH, per KWH at LLO, Legal Fees $1,164.00; City of .0366 Hickman, City Utilities $4,401.16; (b) All over 200 KWH, per KWH at Country Side Cooperative, Fuel .0230 In any given month there shall be a $1,821.67; Elliot Equipment Co., Repairs $3.80; First National Merchant minimum charge of $419.22. D. MUNICIPAL USE Solutions, Credit Processing $84.04; Great Plains One-Call Service, Locates All municipal use shall be billed at $18.66; Kriha Fluid Power Inc., Public the Commercial Rate. Works - Supplies $28.95; Lan. Co. E. In addition to the appropriate Sheriff's Office, Law Enforcement charges of "A" through "D" above, each $5,869.45; Menards, Repairs consumer shall have added to his or her $1,014.73; Messenger Electric, Repairs electrical bill a production cost adjust$250.00; Midwest Laboratories, Inc., ment in an amount equal to his or her Testing $123.90; Mike's Welding, Re- proportionate share of any Production pairs $18.69; John Morris, Plumbing Cost Adjustment billed to the MuniciInspections $180.00; Municipal Sup- pal Electrical System. ply, Inc. of NE, Repairs $266.59; NE Section 2. The original Section 3Public Health Env. Lab, Testing 409, as amended, and any other ordi$184.00; NE Tire - Firth Energy, Tire nance in conflict with this ordinance, is Repair $88.60; Norris Public Power hereby repealed. Section 3. This ordinance will beDistrict, Energy Expense $51,692.99; Office Max HSBC Business, Office come operative on February 18, 2008. Section 4. This ordinance will be in Supplies $388.37; Olsson Associates, Engineering & Consulting $3,798.09; full force and effect from and after its Reliable Office Supplies, Office Sup- passage and publication according to plies $132.70; Rock Solid Fitness, Em- law. Passed and approved this the 12th ployee Wellness $844.35; Salt Valley Land Company, Inc., Rent $100.00; day of February 2008. Mayor Jim Hrouda Merl Scott HVAC Inspection $60.00; Attest: Dale Stertz, Consulting $300.00; The Deputy Clerk Emily G. Bausch Printer Store, Inc., Printer Supplies (SEAL) $160.00; Tool Hospital, Equipment Repairs $25.76; Wells Fargo Card SerPUBLIC NOTICE vices, Supplies $671.27; Whitehead Oil City of Hickman, Nebraska Company, Fuel Expense $479.98; PayPlanning Commission Meeting roll Disbursment 1.16.08, 1.01.08 Supplemental 1.15.08 $16,753.89; Baker & AssociPublic Hearing ates, Health Insurance Allocation Notice is hereby given of Public $1,004.87; First State Bank, 941 Withholdings $7,198.39; Brittany Sill, Hearing as part of Meeting of the Hickman Planning Commission meetUNO Intern $1,612.80. ing on Tuesday, March 4, 2008, beginning at 7:00pm at the Hickman City CITY OF HICKMAN Office - Community Center Meeting ORDINANCE NO. 2008-02 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND Room, 115 Locust Street, Hickman, §3-409 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE Nebraska. The purpose of the Meeting will be OF HICKMAN, NEBRASKA; TO CHANGE THE RATES FOR ELEC- to consider a request from Mike & Gail TRICAL SERVICE AND TO REPEAL Poe for a Change of Zoning from a TranTHE ORIGINAL §3-409 OF THE sitional Agriculture (TA) to a ResidenMUNICIPAL CODE OF HICKMAN, tial Estate District (R-1) on property NEBRASKA; AND TO PROVIDE legally described as S4, T7, R7, 6th PrinFOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE cipal Meridian Lots 52 & 53. Property is generally located at 20757 S 68th, HEREOF. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE Hickman NE. The reason for request is MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING for a possible residential development. Emily G. Bausch BODY OF THE CITY OF Deputy Clerk HICKMAN, NEBRASKA: Section 1. Section 3-409 of the MuPUBLIC NOTICE nicipal Code of the City of Hickman is City of Hickman, Nebraska hereby amended to read as follows: Planning Commission Meeting §3-409 Municipal Electrical SysSupplemental tem: Minimum Rates. All electrical Public Hearing consumers shall be liable for the folNotice is hereby given of Public lowing rates unless and until the consumer shall, by written order, direct the Hearing as part of Meeting of the Utilities Superintendent to shut off the Hickman Planning Commission meetelectricity, in which case the consumer ing on Tuesday, March 4, 2008, beginshall not be liable thereafter for electri- ning at 7:00pm at the Hickman City cal service until the electricity is turned Office - Community Center Meeting on again. The rate designated "Summer Room, 115 Locust Street, Hickman, Rate" shall apply to usage from May Nebraska. The purpose of the meeting will be 20 to September 20 of each year. The rate designated "Winter Rate" shall ap- to consider a Preliminary Plat for Mike Poe - Poe Estates. Property is legally ply to usage the rest of each year. described as S4, T7, R7, 6th Principal A. RESIDENTIAL Meridian Lots 52 & 53. Property is 1. Summer Rate: (a) Customer charge of $9.25 per generally located at 20757 S 68th Street, Hickman NE. month (no KWH included in charge) Emily G. Bausch (b) First 200 KWH, per KWH at Deputy Clerk .1178 (c) Next 800 KWH, per KWH at PUBLIC NOTICE .0918 (d) Over 1,000 KWH, per KWH at City of Hickman, Nebraska City Council Meeting .0588 2. Winter Rate Supplemental Public Hearing (a) Customer charge of $9.25 per month (no KWH included in charge) Notice is hereby given of Public (b) First 200 KWH, per KWH at Hearing as part of Meeting of the .0966 Hickman City Council meeting on Tues(c) Next 800 KWH, per KWH at day, March 25, 2008, beginning at .0682 7:00pm at the Hickman City Office (d) Over 1,000 KWH, per KWH at Community Center Meeting Room, 115 .0518 Locust Street, Hickman, Nebraska. The purpose of the Meeting will be B. COMMERCIAL 1. Summer Rate: to consider a request from Mike & Gail (a) Customer charge of $9.25 per Poe for a Change of Zoning from a Tranmonth (no KWH included in charge) sitional Agriculture (TA) to a Residen(b) First 100 KWH, per KWH at tial Estate District (R-1) on property .1542 legally described as S4, T7, R7, 6th Prin(c) Next 900 KWH, per KWH at cipal Meridian Lots 52 & 53. Property .1236 is generally located at 20757 S 68th (d) Next 9,000 KWH, per KWH at Street, Hickman NE. The reason for .0850 request is for a possible residential de(e) Over 10,000 KWH, per KWH at velopment. .0706 Emily G. Bausch Deputy Clerk 2. Winter Rate (a) Customer charge of $9.25 per PUBLIC NOTICE month (no KWH included in charge) (b) First 100 KWH, per KWH at City of Hickman, Nebraska City Council Meeting .1442 (c) Next 900 KWH, per KWH at Supplemental Public Hearing Notice is hereby given of Public Hearing as part of Meeting of the Hickman City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 25, 2008, beginning at 7:00pm at the Hickman City Office Community Center Meeting Room, 115 Locust Street, Hickman, Nebraska. The purpose of the meeting will be to consider a Preliminary Plat for Mike Poe - Poe Estates. Property is legally described as S4, T7, R7, 6th Principal Meridian Lots 52 & 53. Property is generally located at 20757 S 68th Street, Hickman NE. Emily G. Bausch Deputy Clerk NORRIS SCHOOL DISTRICT 160 Board of Education February 14, 2008 Regular Meeting Central Office Board Room The regular meeting of the Norris School District 160 Board of Education was convened in open and public session at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 14, 2008 in the Central Office Board Room. Board members present: Larry Grosshans, Jim Plouzek, and Tom Kohn. Absent: Craig Gana and Patty Bentzinger. Administrators present included Dr. Roy Baker, Galen Boldt, Barry Stark, Brenda Tracy, John Skretta, Matt Rice, and Dr. Bob Brandt. Superintendent's report • GNSA meeting - Wednesday, February 20, 9:30 a.m., NCSA/Capitol • Annual leadership team retreat 9:00 a.m. Saturday, March 8 • March Board meeting - Thursday, March 13. • NSBA, March 29-April 1 In matters of personnel, Dr. Baker informed the Board of the following: •Middle School Administrators Mary Jo Rupert and Brenda Tracy elevated from "Acting" Principal and Assistant Principal. Mary Jo will be the 2008-09 Middle School Principal and Brenda the 2008-09 Middle School Asst. Principal. •Early Retirement Incentive Applications from: Galen Boldt, Deb Cruise, and Barry Stark •With the retirement of Galen Boldt as Assistant Superintendent, John Skretta will be assigned to that position and we will begin advertising for the high school principal position vacancy. •Bernie Hier, Elementary Day Custodian. Retirement effective July 10, 2008. •Kathy Hegler, Middle School English Teacher, retirement. Consent agenda The consent items were approved by unanimous consent. were approved. The Board expressed gratitude to retiring staff members Deb Cruise, Galen Boldt, Barry Stark, Kathy Hegler, and Bernie Hier for their commitment to Norris and their outstanding service to education. Board Reports Grosshans reported on the legislative workshop in Lincoln that he attended. He also reported on a labor relations workshop in Kearney that he and Plouzek attended. Curriculum/program report Extra Curricular Activities in Middle School and Elementary Ray Henning, Middle School Counselor and Activities Director presented a report regarding participation in the programs available at the Middle School, while Matt Rice and Dr. Bob Brandt did the same with the Elementary offerings. The Board was very appreciative of these informative and impressive presentations. DLR Report Pat Phelan and Dale Nielsen of DLR were present to recommend that a study be conducted by Olsson Associates, the purpose of which would be to provide factual data related to the feasibility of future building sites. Olsson Associates contract John Olsson, of Olsson Associates, was in attendance to speak to the proposed study of future building sites. The cost of the study proposal is $15,000 lump sum plus time and expense not to exceed $4,500. The proposed study includes: wetland evaluation, water/waste water flow rates, evaluation of the lagoon facilities/capacities , water supply/system evaluation, and sewer system evaluation. A motion was made by Kohn, seconded by Plouzek, to accept the bid of Olsson Associates to conduct a feasibility study for future building sites, and to approve the DLR proposal for conducting a topographic survey. Voting yes: Grosshans, Plouzek, Craig, and Kohn. Motion Passed 4-0. Policies and Regulations The amendment presented at the January Board Meeting to Policy 4145 and Regulation 4145 were presented Continued on Page 10 Page 8 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 continued from page 1 Lakeview Care Center making health care changes residents with feeding tubes to prevent problems and help restore eating habits -not making sure every resident’s dietary requirements were met -not making sure that residents who cannot care for themselves get assistance with eating/drinking, tidying up and health care -not providing influenza or Pneumococal vaccine to some residents -not offering social services for related medical difficulties to assist every resident in attaining the best possible quality of life -not making a plan with the resident and relatives for care of the resident after leaving the nursing center -not informing every resident who is able to receive benefits from Medicaid about what items and services Medicaid covers and the ones the resident must purchase or how to OVER 100 VENDORS submit an application for Medicaid, along with the names and addresses of Nebraska groups that can assist -not making sure that residents are well fed -not storing, cooking and serving in a secure and sanitary manner -not having medical drugs and other comparable products on hand, which are necessary each day and during crises, and giving them out correctly -not maintaining the rate of medication mistakes (wrong drug, wrong dose, wrong time) to less than five percent -not making sure that residents are in no danger from serious medication mistakes -not including a plan to keep infection from dispersing -not including a sufficient supply of backup water for significant areas of the rest center Sat. 8:30-5:30 Sun. 10 - 4 Come Find Your Treasure! FLEA MARKET & ANTIQUE SHOW Lancaster Event Center Feb. 23 & 24 84th & Havelock Lincoln, NE $2 Admission Good Both Days Daily Door Prizes Morris said the employees at the Firth care center are ready for change. “People on staff are well prepared to make Lakeview a place of excellence,” she said, adding that the center is still considering what changes to make. CMS also said Lakeview has seven fire code issues, while the average across Nebraska is just two. The care center’s fire inspection problems included: -not having approved building supplies -not holding periodical fire drills -not correctly keeping up smoke detectors -not having construction that is able to defend against fire for 60 minutes or a standard fire extinguishing system -not having automatic sprinkler systems that have been kept in working order -not correctly implementing electrical wiring and equipment. -and not having inspections every week and testing every month of generators Snyder said a nursing home could be put on the “Special Focus Facility” list for a number of reasons. One main factor is when surveyors come to check on the care center, they only see what goes on at that given time, so if they see a staff member do something wrong, it gets marked down. “Policies and procedures may have flaws in them or a staff member doesn’t understand the procedure and doesn’t follow it correctly,” she said. The previous administrator at Lakeview split his time between Firth and an Auburn care center, Morris said, but she is at Lakeview full time. Good Samaritan Society out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, runs Lakeview, along with several other rest homes in the Midwest, and Morris said she was placed at the facility early last week to get the center through the tough times. “I’m excited and honored to have the opportunity to be here in Firth,” she said. “It’s a blessing for me. We’re going to show off how excellent we are here at Lakeview.” Lakeview is the second rest home in Nebraska to be published as a deficient facility by CMS. Last year, Infinia At Florence Heights in Omaha was placed on the “Special Focus Facility” list, which originally only had the worst 54 of the 131 total care facilities because, at first, President George W. Bush’s administration didn’t want to publish the entire list. Twenty-one of those 54 care centers have shown improvement since November, the first time CMS published a record of rest centers severely lacking quality care. Some Democratic legislators started to press for full publication, which eventually led CMS to make the rest homes’ names public. It then had to double-check its facts to make sure the information it released was the most precise. The list of deficient rest centers is updated on a quarterly basis; the next one will be released in April at www.medicare.gov/NHCompare, which has the complete review on Lakeview Care Center, formerly Lakeview Rest Home, and other nursing facilities. Snyder said a nursing facility must put in a care system that it follows consistently, work hard to train staff in the correct procedures and make sure everything is done right so problems don’t continue. “They’re going to have to meet certain requirements,” she said. “If the facility doesn’t improve, CMS will close them down.” Added inspections from state regulators, according to CMS, and increasing rule enforcement are going to go on until Lakeview shows major progress in care services or its Medicare or Medicaid qualifications will be eliminated. Morris said she couldn’t go into specifics, but changes at the care center will be made aggressively during the next year. “Everybody’s cooperative and has a great attitude about it,” she said. “We know we can be fabulous. Check back with us at the end of the summer.” Again, thanks to Linda and Bill for all their help and to eve VOICE Hallam citizens rejoice in Auditorium dedication on Sunday NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 9 Jerris Schreiter, of the building committee, chose patriotic songs for the program. The American Legion Post 294 brought in the flags for the celebration. Building Committtee members Linda Wahlstrom, above, and below, chairperson Robin Likens and Medea Henke, served cookies and coffee to over 150 people in attendance at the auditorium dedication. Rogge Construction built the building and Dennis Lyons was the architect. Community members sang at the auditorium dedication Sunday. Front row, from left, Jill Sand, Karen Schreiter, Medea Henke, Christine Rahorst, Kyla Jensby, Deb Oates, Kendra O’Brien. Back row, from left, Dave Sand, Pat O’Brien, Kurt Oates, Tom Schuerman. Darcy Meinke, not pictured, was the accompanist. Foundation donates $$$ At left, Bruce Trautwein, of the Hallam Community Foundation presented a check for over $3,000 to Craig Schreiter, Fire/ Rescue Chief, for new bunker gear for the Hallam Fire and Rescue Department. The Foundation was formed in 2005 as a non-profit IRS 501 C3 organization with the purpose of restoring the town and making the Hallam area a better place to live. Donors may make tax deductible contributions to the Foundation at Box 2, Hallam, NE 68368. VOICE publishers Bill and Linda Bryant, played a part in Hallam’s www.hallamarea.org celebration; Bill was the master of ceremonies and Linda gave the keynote speech on citizens being a strong voice in their community for Photos by Bill progress. The Bryant’s also covered the event, taking pictures for the & Linda Bryant newspaper and video for the website, www.voicenewsnebraska.com. DIRT Terracing Waterways Ponds Grading & More Karleen Raley, longtime Hallam resident and employee of the bank, has been an active member of the auditorium building committee and in rebuilding Hallam since the tornado in May of 2004. She was happy that much of the work has been accomplished. Pastor Dan Davis, above, gave the invocation and introductions and Pastor Carla Gunn gave the prayer and benediction at the conclusion on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008. Both pastors have seen their churches rebuilt since the tornado. AMERICAN EXCAVATION 402-980-5217 432-3141 Let us take the pain out of painting 14 years of satisfied customers •Interior + Exterior painting •Including steel & vinyl siding •Metal Buildings •Deck Restoration •Free Estimates •Insured Matt Ley, Firth (402)730-5561 2 rooms painted - $300 12 x 15 maximum room size Page 10 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 Continued from Page 7 on 2nd reading for final approval. The amendment changes the submittal dates for early retirement incentives to February 1 to February 28/29 as compared to the month of March. A motion was made by Craig, seconded by Grosshans, to give final approval for the proposed amendment of Policy 4145. Voting yes: Grosshans, Plouzek, Craig, and Kohn. Board areas of focus The Board discussed the progress of the goals determined for the 2007-08 School Year. Ongoing areas of focus, carried over from previous years: Monitor the growth in student enrollment. Achieve the NASB Outstanding Board status. New areas of focus for 2007-08: Develop a building and land use plan, including the determination of the site of the next building if and when expansion is needed. (Grosshans, Kohn, Bentzinger). Pat Phelan of DLR laid out study plans for land use. Develop a schedule for grounds maintenance, created by our maintenance and grounds staff, and reviewed for advice by a horticulture specialist. Keith Brunkow has some components of a schedule completed, with assistance from Groundskeeper Bill Wieskamp. Project focuses: Remodel the HS Chemistry and Biology laboratories. Matt Heibel and Jan Zink are reviewing the specifications developed last spring. The project will be out for bids in March. Cross Country Course. Work will continue on the new segment of the Cross Country course. The construction of the Middle School necessitated a change in the course. Open forum/Citizens' requests No requests were made. Administrators' Reports Administrators present reported on current matters of interest. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Minutes recorded by Galen Boldt BILL REPORT 2-14-08 GENERAL FUND Vendor Name Description Check Total: ABLOOM FLORAL AND GIFTS MISCELLANEOUS/BOARD OF ED - DIST 58.00;ADVANCED OFFICE AUTOMATION, COPIER MAINT & REPAIRS/ADMIN-CENTRAL OFF 132.92;ALLTEL TELEPHONE DIST 374.10; ALTA BOOK CENTER PUBLISHERS SUPPLIES/REG INSTRUCTION - ELEM 64.90; ASCD SUPPLIES/SOCIAL STUDIES ELEM 763.95;AUTO GLASS CENTER TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 47.94; BANK OF AMERICA PAYMENTS SOFTWARE/TECH SUPPORT - DIST 111.21;BARNES & NOBLE INC MILEAGE & EXP/STAFF DEVELOPMENT - DIST 1 4 1 . 0 0 ; BEATRICE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL & HEALTH INC MILEAGE & INSERVICE/PRESCHOOL - ELEM 1,417.50; BEATRICE FORD LINCOLN MERCURY, TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 118.07; BLICK, DICK SPEECH TEAM FEES & EXPENSES - HS 46.48; BROOKES PUBLISHING CO, PAUL H. SUPPLIES/SPED RESOURCES - MS 41.44; BROWER SCHOOL BUS PARTS TIRES AND PARTS/ TRANSPORTATION 323.29; CALDWELL PIANO SERVICE EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MUSIC - HS 200.00; CARQUEST AUTO PARTS TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 838.40; CARRIAGE MOTOR CO TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 77.03; CDW GOVERNMENT, INC. SUPPLIES/REG INSTRUCTION - HS1 , 0 1 8 . 6 6 ; CHAPMAN & SAVIDGE, INC. SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 128.50; COLIN ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICE SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 170.10; CORNHUSKER INTL TRUCKS, INC. TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 117.65; COUNTRYSIDE COOP (FIRTH COOP) GAS/TRANSPORTATION 25,148.21; CRESCENT ELECTRIC SUPPLY CO. SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 1,102.81; CURRICULUM ASSOCIATES, INC. READING SUPPLIES - ELEM 746.68; D & D COMMUNICATIONS TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 82.38; DAVIDSON TITLES, INC LIBRARY BOOKS - HS 982.96; DELL MARKETING, L.P. TONER/TECH SUPPORT - DIST 125.00; DEPT OF LABOR-SAFETY DIVISION SUPPLIES/ PLANT MAINT. 288.00; DIODE COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTING SERVICES/TECH SUPPORT DIST 39.95; DRUMMOND AMERICAN CORPORATION SUPPLIES/ PLANT OPERATION 787.46; EGAN SUPPLY COMPANY SUPPLIES/ PLANT OPERATION 1,038.64; ELECTRONIC CONTRACTING CO. SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 1,399.50; ELKHORN HIGH SCHOOL OTHER/ HIGH ABILITY LEARNERS - HS 100.00; ERSKINE, NOEL REPAIR SERVICES/TECH SUPPORT - DIST 167.50; ESU #6 OTHER 6,283.11; ESU#3 MILEAGE & INSERVICE/ SPED DIAG SERV-ELEM 136.29; FIRST STATE AGENCY-HICKMAN FIDELITY BOND PREMIUMS/ BOARD OF ED-DIST 375.00; FIRTH POST OFFICE POSTAGE - DIST 355.70; GRAINGER, INC. TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 307.89; GROSSHANS, LARRY MILEAGE & INSERVICE/BOARD OF ED - DIST 1,574.66; GUMDROP BOOKS LIBRARY BOOKS - MS 829.28; HAAN CRAFTS S U P P L I E S / HOME EC - MS 168.00; HERRMAN, FLORENCE SUPPLIES/REG INSTRUCTION - ELEM 58.77; HONEYWELL INC. SUPPLIES/ PLANT MAINT. 2,574.75; HUENINK REFUSE SERVICE, INC OTHER SERVICES/PLANT OPERATION 1,870.00; HUMMERT INTERNATIONAL SUPPLIES/VOC. AG HS 125.88; HYVEE FOOD STORE #1388 SUPPLIES/HOME EC - MS 643.80; IKON OFFICE SOLUTIONS COPIER MAINT CONT - MS 1,414.44; INLAND TRUCK PARTS & SERVICE TIRES AND PARTS/ TRANSPORTATION 1,325.32; JACK & JILL SUPPLIES/REG INSTRUCTION - ELEM 141.22; JOHNSON, BARBARA VISUALLY IMPAIRED ELEM 110.20; KINER SUPPLY COMPANY SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 237.63; KONICA MINOLTA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, INC COPIER MAINT CONT - HS 5,527.15; KUSTER, GAIL OTHER EXPENSES/ TRANSPORTATION 55.00; LANCASTER RURAL WATER CHENEY EXPENSES/PLANT OPERATIONS 33.00; LAQUINTA INNS OTHER/HIGH ABILITY LEARNERS - HS 445.00; LATSCH'S, INC SUPPLIES/BOARD OF ED - DIST 33.61; LIENEMANN, TORRI MILEAGE & INSERVICE/SPED DIAG SERV - HS 1,720.33; LINCOLN CLUTCH & BRAKE TIRES AND PARTS/ TRANSPORTATION 355.49; LINCOLN JOURNAL STAR PERIODICALS/LIBRARY & MEDIA - HS 124.80; LINCOLN PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSOC., PC PHYSICALS & DRUG TESTING/TRANSP. - DIST 315.00; LINCOLN TRUCK CENTER TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 1,906.68; LINCOLN WINLECTRIC COS U P P L I E S / PLANT MAINT. 43.20; MACGILL & CO, WILLIAM V. SUPPLIES/ HEALTH SERVICES - MS 4 9 . 2 0 ; MAENDELE, MELINDA M I L E AGE & INSERVICE/ADMIN-CENTRAL OFFICE 43.68; MALCOLM HIGH SCHOOL OTHER MISC OBJECTS/MUSIC - MS 240.00; MCGRAW-HILL PUB. CO. (GLENCOE) TEXTBOOKS/SOCIAL STUDIES - HS 691.52; MENARDSLINCOLN SOUTH STORE T I R E S AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 1,483.55; MEYER LABORATORY, INC SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 974.40; MID-WEST TECH SUPPLIES/TRADES & INDUSTRY - HS 86.14; MILLINGTON, KELLY SPEECH TEAM FEES & EXPENSESHS 44.29; MITCHELL, ANNETTE SUPPLIES/REG INSTRUCTION ELEM 148.73; NCA MILEAGE & INSERVICE/ADMIN-ASST SUPT 500.00; NE ASSOC OF SCHOOL BOARDS PURCHASED SERV/ SAFETY & SECURITY - DIST 115.00; NE COUNCIL OF SCHOOL ADMIN. MILEAGE & INSERVICE/ADMIN ELEM 1,025.00; NE SPEECH/LANGUAGE/HEARING ASC MILEAGE & INSERVICE/SPED DIAG SERVELEM 255.00; NE STATE READING ASSOCIATION MILEAGE & EXP/ STAFF DEVELOPMENT - DIST 904.00; NEBRASKA TIRE & ENERGY, LLC TIRES AND PARTS/ TRANSPORTATION 347.35; NETA06 CONFERENCE REGISTRATION MILEAGE & EXP/STAFF DEVELOPMENT - DIST 180.00; NEW DIGITAL GROUP, INC CONTRACTED & SECURED SERV/ PLANT OPERATN 600.00; NEW VISION COMMUNICATIONS, INC REPAIR SERVICES/TECH SUPPORT - DIST 201.50; NORRIS HOT LUNCH OTHER EXP/ STAFF DEVELOPMENT - DIST 821.29; NORRIS PUB- LIC POWER ROKEBY EXPENSES/ PLANT OPERATION 45,225.23; NORTON, RICHARD MILEAGE & INSERVICE/SPED DIAG SERV - HS 419.04; OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH CENTERS OF NE, PC PHYSICALS & DRUG TESTING/TRANSP. - DIST 138.00; OFFICEMAX CREDIT PLAN 7TH GRADE TEAM SUPPLIES - MS 952.03; OMAHA GROSS HIGH SCHOOL OTHER/HIGH ABILITY LEARNERS - HS 100.00; PARADISE WATER COMPANY S U P PLIES/ADMIN-CENTRAL OFFICE 43.00; PAYFLEX SYSTEMS USA, INC UNEMP. COMP., IRS 125 ADM FEE - DIST 560.70; PEARMAN, MICHELLE ONE ACT PLAY FEES & EXPENSES - HS 188.95; PEARSON EDUCATION SUPPLIES/ADMIN MS 594.95; PERSONAL SERVICE MFG. CORP. FURNITURE & EQUIP/ TRADES & INDUSTRY - HS 50.17; PETSCHE, DENISE MILEAGE & INSERVICE/PRESCHOOL - ELEM 75.66; PIENING, JENNIFER OTHER PROF & TECH SERV/ORTHOPEDIC - MS 5,901.40; PRICE, JUDEEN MILEAGE & EXP/STAFF DEVELOPMENT - DIST 341.67; PRICE, TOM SUPPLIES/MATH - MS 122.59; QUALITY WATER SERVICES, INC. WATER SOFTENER SALT - PLANT OPERATION 75.00; RADIOSHACK CORPORATION SUPPLIES/SPEECH IMPAIRED - MS 90.43; RUPERT, MARY SUPPLIES/ REG INSTRUCTION - MS 4 7 . 9 2 ; SAGE PUBLICATIONS MILEAGE & INSERVICE/ADMIN-ASST SUPT 38.95; SAUDER EDUCATION EQUIPMENT REPAIR/LIBRARY & MEDIA - HS 38.35; SCERINI, BRANDON WORK STUDY PROGRAM/SPED RESOURCE - HS 33.00; SPANG, SARAH WORK STUDY PROGRAM/SPED RESOURCE - HS 40.00; SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION COPIER MAINT CONT - HS 289.69; STARK, BARRY SUPPLIES/REG INSTRUCTION - MS 119.75; TERMINIX PROCESSING CENTER OTHER SERVICES/PLANT OPERATION 84.00; TOMS, ED.D., PAUL PURCHASED SERV/SAFETY & SECURITY - DIST 353.01; TOTAL TOOL SUPPLY SUPPLIES/PLANT MAINT. 279.88; TRANE U. S. INC. CONTRACTED & SECURED SERV/PLANT MAINT. 2,528.50; UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA KEARNEY MATERIALS/ NCLB TITLE IVA(SAFE/ DRUGFREE) 170.00; US POSTAL SERVICE POSTAGE - DIST 3,204.60; VOICE NEWS ADVERTISING & PRINTING - DIST 274.07; WALKER TIRE AND AUTO SERVICE TIRES AND PARTS/TRANSPORTATION 3,177.44; WENGER CORPORATION SUPPLIES/MUSIC - ELEM 698.50; WESTFIELD FLORALM I S C E L L A N E O U S / BOARD OF ED - DIST 39.50 General Fund Sub-Total 142,298.06 General Fund Sub-Total 142,298.06 Misc. General Fund 221.47 Payroll 1,113,746.80 General Fund Total $1,256,266.33 IMPREST ACCOUNT ALLTEL TELEPHONE - DIST 279.77; ESU #4 ACADEMIC DECATHLON FEES & EXP - 4 0 . 0 0 ; ELKHORN HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC DEPT EXPENSES - HS 114.50; FIRTH POST OFFICE POSTAGE - DIST 844.44; HEARTLAND WINTER ARTS ASSN FLAG CORPS - HS 400.00; LINCOLN ELECTRIC SYSTEM CHENEY EXPENSES/PLANT 333.35; LINCOLN SOUTHWEST HS SPEECH TEAM FEES & EXPENSES 28.00; PANAMA CAFE SUPPLIES/ BOARD OF ED - DIST 100.00; RAYMOND CENTRAL HS SPEECH TEAM FEES & EXPENSES 77.00; SEWARD HIGH SCHOOL O N E ACT PLAY FEES & EXPENSES 28.60 IMPREST TOTAL $2,245.66 Lunch Fund CASH-WA DISTRIBUTING CO FOOD 10,915.32; JACK & JILL FOOD 31.39; KRUEGER, LANCE SALE OF LUNCHES/MILK 34.70; LATSCH'S, INC SUPPLIES & MATERIALS EXCP FOOD 91.83; LINCOLN POULTRY FOOD 12,918.10; MEADOW GOLD DAIRIES FOOD 7,268.24; NE FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM FOOD 2,015.73; PARADISE WATER COMPANY F O O D 60.50; PEGLER SYSCO FOOD SERVICES FOOD 14,577.98; PEPSICOLA FOOD 2,646.00; POSITIVE PROMOTIONS SUPPLIES & MATERIALS EXCP FOOD 197.05; ROTELLA'S ITALIAN BAKERY, INC. FOOD 1,289.30 LUNCH FUND TOTAL $52,046.14 NOTICE OF MEETING NORRIS SCHOOL DISTRICT 160 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the regular meeting of the Board of Edu- cation will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 13th, 2008 in the Board Meeting Room at the Central Office, which meeting will be open to the public. The agenda for the meeting, kept continuously current, is available for public inspection at the office of the Superintendent. VILLAGE OF PALMYRA, NEBRASKA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Chairman and Board of Trustees of the Village of Palmyra, Nebraska will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed One (1) and Six (6) Year Street Program for the Village of Palmyra at the Activities Center on Thursday, March 13, 2008 at 7:15 P.M. The proposed Program is now on file at the Village Offices and is available for Public Inspection. By order of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. STERLING PUBLIC SCHOOLS, DISTRICT #33 BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES OF MEETING FEBRUARY 11, 2008 A meeting of the Board of Education of Sterling Public Schools was convened in open and public session on Monday, February 11, 2008, at 7:02 p.m. in the FCS Room 116 at the Sterling Public School 250 Main, Sterling, Nebraska. The roll was called and the following Board members were present or absent: Present: Hestermann, McAuliffe, D. Heusman, A. Heusman, Nieveen Absent: Saathoff Notice of the meeting was given in advance by publication and posting in accordance with the Board approved method for giving notice of meetings. Notice of this meeting was given in advance to all members of the Board of Education. The Secretary of the Board maintains a list of the news media requesting notification of meetings and advance notification to the listed media of the time and place of the meeting and the subjects to be discussed at this meeting was provided. Availability of the agenda was communicated in the publicized notice and a current copy of the Agenda was maintained as stated in the publicized notice. All proceedings of the Board of Education, except as may be hereinafter noted, were taken while the convened meeting was open to the attendance of the public. I. The meeting was duly called to order. At the beginning of this meeting, McAuliffe announced and informed the public that a current copy of the Open Meetings Act is posted on the wall at the entrance of the meeting room wall. II. Motion was made by D. Heusman and seconded by Hestermann to approve all items on the consent agenda. With moving item G to the first thing on the agenda. After discussion and on roll call vote, the Board voted as follows: Voting for: Hestermann, McAuliffe, D. Heusman, A. Heusman, Nieveen Voting against: none Motion carried. Saathoff arrived at 7:11 p.m. Discussion was held during the Board Committee report on the State aid for 2008-2009. Mr. Peterson reported on the following items: No School on Feb. 18 for Teacher In Service, Math Portfolio Peer Review, State Writing was the last 2 weeks, March 7 the quarter ends, Early out on March 27, Prom will be April 5 at 6:30 at Holiday Inn Express in Beatrice, 5 students made All State Instrumental, Sub district basketball Feb. 11-21, Track starts Feb. 25 with the first meet on March 20. Mr. Duval reported on the Labor Relations Conference in Kearney he had attended and also reviewed topics from NASB Legislative newsletter. III. Action Items Motion was made by McAuliffe and seconded by Nieveen to accept negotiated agreement as presented. After discussion and on roll call vote, the Board voted as follows: Voting for: Hestermann, McAuliffe, D. Heusman, A. Heusman, Nieveen Voting against: none Motion carried. Item A. Superintendent evaluation forms were passed out to fill out and return. No action was taken. Items B and C. These items had no action taken. Item D was tabled. Motion was made by Saathoff and seconded by Hestermann to rehire Greg Peterson for the 2008-2009 school year as 6-12 Principal. After discussion and on roll call vote, the Board voted as follows: Voting for: Hestermann, McAuliffe, D. Heusman, A. Heusman, Nieveen, Saathoff Voting against: none Motion carried. Motion was made by Saathoff and seconded by Nieveen to approve hiring of DeeDee Phillips as SPED para and Laura Thiesen as kitchen employee. After discussion and on roll call vote, the Board voted as follows:Voting for: Hestermann, McAuliffe, D. Heusman, A. Heusman, Nieveen, Saathoff Voting against: none Motion carried. Executive Session Motion was made by D. Heusman and seconded by Hestermann that the Board hold a closed session for: Discussions of personnel. After discussion and on roll call vote, the Board voted as follows: Voting for: Hestermann, McAuliffe, D. Heusman, A. Heusman, Nieveen, Saathoff Voting against: none Motion carried. The Board went into closed session at 8:07 p.m. Immediately prior to the closed session the presiding officer restated on the record the limitation of the subject matter of the closed session. The Board reconvened in open session at 8:20 p.m. with no formal action to be taken. IV. 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 10, 2008. V. Motion to Adjourn. Motion was made by Nieveen and seconded by D. Heusman to adjourn the meeting at 8:21 p.m. on February 11, 2008. Voting for: McAuliffe, A. Heusman, D. Heusman, Hestermann, Saathoff, Nieveen Voting against: None Motion carried. The meeting was duly adjourned. DATED this 11th day of February, 2008. JOHNSON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT #33, a/k/a STERLING PUBLIC SCHOOLS BY: President Mike McAuliffe ATTEST: D. Heusman, Secretary Bills from February 11 Meeting: Ablenet Inc., Supplies 15.00; Abilitations, Supplies 49.07; Ace Plumbing & Air Conditioning, Water Heater Repair 650.10; Act, Fee 110.40; Alltel, Cell Phones 182.99; Beatrice Community Hospital, Special Ed 389.36; Colin Electric Motor Service, Motor 58.58; Cornhusker International; Bus Repairs $15.31; Deb Lairmore, Special Ed 405.46; Dietze Music House, Supplies 264.70; Eakes Office Plus, Supplies 353.00; Egan Supply Co Supplies, 251,42; Esu #4, Special Ed And Supplies 554.13; Esu # 4, Special Ed And Supplies 2.48; Esu # 4, Special Ed And Supplies 4,520.72; Esu # 4, Special Ed And Supplies 10.00; Esu #6, Internet 326.91; First National Bank, Rent 20.00; Hewlett-packard Company, Supplies 104.45; Hilltop Greenhouse & Floral, Flowers 27.00; Jet Stop Inc., Fuel 970.53; Jim Duval, Mileage 828.20; Library World, Library Support 450.00; Lincoln Welding Co., Supplies 57.32; McDonald & Associates, Computer Upgrades 1,312.50; McGraw Hill, Supplies 676.81; Metro Leasing Company, Lease 802.64; Midwest Refuse, Fee 377.59; Nebraska Association Of Scbd, Fees & Membership Dues 1,8$3.09; Nebraska Rural Community Scho, Fee-duval & Peterson 192.00; Nebraska Rural Community Scho, Fee-duval & Peterson 192.00; Nebraska Safety Center, Bus Driver Class 75.00; Post Rock Gas, Llc, Heating Fuel 6,725.51; Nebraska Public Power District, Electricity 1,811.86; Physical Therapy Solutions, Pc, Special Ed 515.41; Pioneer Drama Service Inc, Supplies 29.00; Presto X Company, Fee 59.08; Principal Life Group, Grand, Ltd 786.02; Quill Corporation, Supplies 95.04; Quill Corporation, Supplies 65.00; Quill Corporation, Supplies 83.55; Quill Corporation, Supplies 208.13; Quill Corporation, Supplies 35,00; Randy Tentinger, Buffer 250.00; School Specialty Supply, Supplies 16,31; Sinclair Oil Corp., Fuel 1,023.39; Solutionone, Lease 289.99; Stan Karr, Insurance 250.00; Stan Reatz, Supplies 12.82; Sterling Activity Account, Reimbursable 8.50; Sterling Activity Account, Reimbursable 90.00; Sterling Activity Account, Reimbursable 115.70; Sterling Activity Account, Reimbursable 75.00; Sterling Activity Account, Reimbursable 112.87; Sterling Activity Account, Reimbursable 35.00; Sterling Lumber Co, Supplies 77.97; Sunrise Publications, Inc., Publishing 146.87; True Value Hardware, Supplies 64.64; Village Of Sterling, Water And Sewer 157.00; Voice Printing, Printing 116.73; Waymire Well Drilling, Supplies 409.35; Windstream, Phone Repairs 227.32; Wusk Power Equipment & Repair, Repairs 45.00; Wusk Power Equipment & Repair, Repairs 1,711.15; Report Total: 33,030.66 Payroll 160,962.84; Total $193,993.50. Continued on Page 11 Be informed about your community. Read the legals! VOICE Jet and Falcon fans pack Sterling gym Lancaster County Sheriff’s Report By Mark Mahoney LPS finance director injured in one-vehicle crash The director of finance for Lincoln Public Schools was hospitalized after a one-vehicle crash near South 120th and Van Dorn streets around 8:45 a.m. February 19. According to a Lancaster County Sheriff ’s press release, Timothy Kemper, 52, of rural Walton, was traveling north on South 120th Street to work when he lost control of his SUV and rolled it numerous times. The vehicle came to rest on its roof in the middle of South 120th, just south of the intersection. South 120th was closed for a short time Tuesday morning as the accident scene was cleared. Kemper was transported by StarCare helicopter to BryanLGH Medical Center West, where he was in critical condition with severe head trauma as of Tuesday. According to the press release, he was wearing his seat belt and was the only passenger in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Rural Roca man cited for for his part in 10-man brawl A rural Roca man was arrested and cited on suspicion of third-degree assault for his part in a 10-man fight that broke out during an earlymorning party at 20005 Southwest 14th Street, south of Sprague, on February 16. Jason Meyer, 29, of rural Roca, was cited for alleged third-degree assault after a 19-year-old Lincoln woman reported he allegedly punched her in the face twice on purpose while she tried to break up the melee. According to sheriff’s reports, the woman claimed Meyer first allegedly hit her on the right side of the forehead, and then in the nose with a closed fist. The woman had slight pain, redness and swelling on her forehead, as well as a bloody nose, according to sheriff’s reports. Meyer reported that he was involved in the overall fight, but didn’t remember hitting a woman. Another Lincoln woman witnessed Meyer hitting the other woman, according to sheriff’s reports. Meyer was cited and taken to a detoxification center, where he had a preliminary breath test of .129, according to sheriff’s reports. Rural Hickman home burglarized during day A rural Hickman residence along Panama Road was burglarized sometime between 9:10 a.m. and 11:07 a.m. February 17. A 26-year-old Page woman arrived at her parents’ home and saw the garage walk-in door wide open, according to sheriff’s reports. Her parents and brother were at church at the time. She entered the house, saw that someone had entered it and called law enforcement. Lancaster County Sheriff’s deputies arrived and searched the home, but they found no suspects. Among the items taken from the house were eight rifles and shotguns, a black acoustic guitar, a green iPod, a camera, two checkbooks, three gift cards, two containers of money, a gold chain necklace, a silver-colored pocket watch, a cell phone, a purse, a car ignition key, a gray garage door opener and keys, black binoculars and a red pillow case. Total loss was estimated at $4,705. The exterior garage walk-in door and interior garage/kitchen door had been unlocked, according to sheriff’s reports. Two fingerprints were found. Various bank and credit card companies were notified of the theft. Sgt. Tom Brookhouser said the case is under investigation. 360 video game system, an amplifier and carbon dioxide tanks, according to sheriff’s reports. Total loss was estimated at $4,455. A friend of the man was over at the house February 7 and noticed the items missing. The man had no serial numbers to identify the possessions if they are found. The theft is under investigation, Brookhouser said. Lincoln woman injured in one-vehicle crash A Lincoln woman was hurt in a one-car accident just west of South 68th Street and Saltillo Road a little after 7 a.m. February 13. Sarah Hahn, 27, of Lincoln, was traveling east on Saltillo Road at 55 mph, according to sheriff’s reports, when she started going off the road to the south. She overcorrected too far to the left, causing her to cross the center line and back. Hahn went into the ditch south of Saltillo Road and rolled her car; it landed on its tires. Damage to the car was estimated at $10,000. According to sheriff’s reports, Hahn complained of back pain. Lincoln Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and took her to BryanLGH Medical Center West. The hospital had no information on Hahn as of Tuesday. A child in the car was unhurt. No citation was issued; witnesses to the crash reported that ice on the road probably caused Hahn to lose control of her vehicle. Freeman and Sterling High Schools are Highway 41 rivals, and that was apparent last Friday night when the two boys basketball teams clashed. The Jet gym was packed to the rafters for the first time in many years, with the overflow crowd jammed onto the east stage. Cheering for the Jets, were, from left: Jazzy Eickhoff, Jackie Eickhoff, Connie Walters, and Jake Walters. For the record, Class D1 Freeman bettered Class D2 Sterling 60-43 after a close first half. Photo by Bill F. Bryant swer questions and make changes if necessary to the plan. Wingert made a motion to close the hearing at 7:07 p.m. and Karr seconded the motion. Vote: yeas: all. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 7:08 p.m. Dennis Heusman, Board Chairman Lola Wentz, Village Clerk Copper wire taken from cell tower location Copper wire and a copper plate were stolen from a cell tower at 7840 Olive Creek Road a little before 4 p.m. February 11. A Sprint Wireless technician reported that someone cut through the barbed wire on the security fence surrounding the cell tower, according to sheriff’s reports. Once inside the fence, $600 worth of copper wire, as well as a copper plate, were taken by somebody who cut away ground wire to the site. Total damage to the fence was $50. A backpack containing hand tools was found near the tower. No fingerprints or other evidence were found. Continued from Page 10 STERLING VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES The Sterling Village Board of Trustees met in special session an Tuesday, February 4, 2008, 7:00 p.m. at the Sterling Fire Hall. Chairman Dennis Heusman called the meeting to order and trustees answering roll call were: Stan Karr, Dwight Weiss. Chuck Wingert. Absent: Vane Rengstorf. The purpose of the meeting was the public hearing to grant approval to Jet Stop, Inc. for a Class D Liquor License. Karr made a motion to grant Jet Stop, Inc. approval far a Class D Liquor License and Wingert seconded the motion. yeas: all. Motion carried. Lincoln woman arrested on Vote: Meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m. suspicion of taking cash, Dennis Heusman, Board Chairman DVDs, CD from Walton home Lola Wentz, Village Clerk A Lincoln woman was taken into custody for allegedly taking money, DVDs and a CD from a rural Walton residence along the 15400 block of Van Dorn Street sometime between 10 p.m. February 13 and 8:30 a.m. February 14. Brookhouser said Jessica Blue, 22, of Lincoln, turned herself in for the crime. A 76-year-old man reported that she stole $91 in cash, seven DVDs and a CD from his home. According to sheriff’s reports, he said there had only been one person at his house at the time the theft occurred. Total loss was estimated at $311. STERLING VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES The Sterling Village Board of Trustees held a special meeting on Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at 6:45 p.m. at the Sterling Fire Hall. Chairman Heusman called the meeting to order and trustees answering roll call were. Stan Karr, Dwight Weiss, Chuck Wingert. Absent: Vane Rengstorf. Others present: LeRoy Riensche, Audrey Keebler, Steve Mercure, Jim Wenzl, James Burroughs, Jack Weyers. The Open Meetings Act was read. A public hearing on the Six and One Year Street Improvement was held for the ensuing year. James Burroughs of Olsson Associates, was present to an- STERLING VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The Chairman and Board of Trustees of the Village of Sterling met in regular session on Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at 7:09 p.m. at the Sterling Fire Barn in a publicly convened session the same being open to the public and having been preceded by advanced publicized notice. The Open Meetings Act was read. Chairman Dennis Heusman called the meeting to order. Trustees answering roll call were: Stan Karr, Dwight Weiss, Chuck Wingert. Absent: Vane Rengstorf. Visitors: LeRoy Riensche, Audrey Keebler, James Burroughs, Jim Wenzl, Jack Weyers, Steve Mercure. Weiss made a motion to approve the minutes of the last regular meeting held January 8, 2008 and Wingert seconded the motion. Vote: yeas: all. Motion carried. These bills were approved for payment in a motion by Weiss and Wingert seconded the motion. Motion carried. These bills were approved for payment: A1 Wusk Electric, rep.-3.38; Aquila fuel-766.64; BMG fee-90.00; Carp's, fuel-1,126.68; Data Communications, sup.-73.50; D.J. Gongol, sup.244.58; Employees Benefit Program, Riensche ins.-200.00; First National Bank, box rent-15.00; First Bank-card, sup.-329.02; Great Plains One Call, fee1.01; Ivan Heusman mileage-248.00; Home & Farm Insurance, ins.-1,194.00; Jack Weyers, fee-113.00; Jay Carpenter, fuel-148.84; Jet Stop, Inc., fuel431.15; Library books-25.94; MCI, phones-69.11; Midwest Labs, fee123.90; Municipal Supply, hydrants and meters-5,333.72; NPPD, ele. 2,021.59; NPHEL, fee-149.00; Nestor & Mercure, fee-402.50; Olsson Associates, fee-40.80; Payroll-4,648.64; Payroll taxes- 1,026.94; Quill, sup.221.11; Shaffer Communications, fd van sup.-4,345.45; Sterling Rural Fire Dept., ins.-3,108.00; Sterling Lumber, sup.-57.71; Sterling School, lic. monies-730.00; True Value, sup.-59.98; Voice News, pub.-77.90; Westside Auto-rep.-3.99; Windstream phones196.94; Wusk Power Equipment, rep.40.00. Total: $26,524.82. Wingert made a motion to approve the Six and One Street Improvement Plan with additions for the ensuing year and Weiss seconded the motion. Vote: yeas: all. Motion carried. Dogs running at large was discussed and input was received from Sheriff Jim Wenzl and Village Attorney, Steve Mercure. Discussed were safety issues for citizens and what action can be taken to protect residents. Mercure will prepare an update to the village ordinance and dog's owner in question will be notified immediately. In regard to surveillance cameras, prices and location were of concern. Vendors will be contacted to afford the Board of Trustees information on the cameras. LeRoy Riensche, utility superintendent, reported on these items: fire hydrants and meter pits have been received; well head grant; new mower is at Wusk Power and Equipment; parttime summer help; mowing guidelines-, flow test meter. Karr made a motion to hire Chris Nieveen for a minimum of $0 hours per month with an hourly wage of $8.00. Wingert seconded the motion. Vote: yeas: all. Motion carried. The Village will have the 1969 Ford, snow blade, desk, mower at the Consignment Sale sponsored by the Sterling Legion on held April 4. 2008. The next regular meeting will be held Monday, March 10, 2008. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Dennis Heusman, Board Chairman Lola Wentz, Village Clerk LANCASTER EVENT CENTER 4100 North 84th St. • Lincoln, NE 68507 Phone: 402-441-6545 • Fax: 402-441-6046 • www.lancastereventcenter.com Make plans now to attend these exciting upcoming events: Miscellaneous items taken from Bennet house A variety of items was stolen from a Bennet residence on Madison Street between February 1 and February 7. The 19-year-old man who lives at the house reported February 14 that someone he knows came over to his house and stole two paintball guns, miscellaneous CDs, an Xbox NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 11 Spring Creek Mall North Hwy. 50 - Tecumseh, NE 402/335-3042 Mon. - Fri. 9-6; Sat. 9-5 February 22 Pheasants Forever Banquet 23-24 Antique Flea Market 25 Bridal Fair March 1-2 All 4 Kids Expo www.mjproductions.com 1-2 Seasons of Crafts 7-9 Nebraska Horse Expo www.nebraskahorsecouncil.org 14-16 Husker Lawn and Leisure www.huskerlawnshow.com 22 Antique Tractor Pullers 22 Pugilistic Production Boxing and MMA 28-29 Indoor Demolition Derby Page 12 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 Chapter Three - by Kay Hively Scotty left his library books at home the next day. At school, his classmates were talking about their research. Everyone was eager to tell about the man or woman they had researched. And, of course, everyone was excited because it was Friday. Friday was the best day at school. Everyone worked to get their lessons done. Then, in the afternoon, the students got to do special things. They had spelling bees or math contests. Scotty liked the math competitions. He could add numbers without using a piece of paper. The morning went by quickly. After lunch, the teacher said the class was going to visit the city museum. Many of the students had been there before. Scotty remembered seeing army uniforms and a model airplane. He liked model planes. Curly’s Clip Joint Looking at the picture, Scotty could hardly believe that Harry Truman had actually come to his town. As the group moved to the next exhibit, he kept looking back at the courthouse picture. Tomorrow, he promised himself, he would go down to the courthouse and stand where Harry Truman had stood. I swear I’m going to get out the horse clippers and start cutting my own hair; what little there is left. For the first time in my life I went into one of those nationwide salons for a haircut and they wanted 15 bucks for something you’re gonna cover with a ball cap anyway! When I balked at the price I was advised that some men are routinely paying up to $200 to dine on organic cuisine, receive a scalp treatment, a back facial and a haircut all at the same time at metrosexual barber shops. Not me, I don’t know what a metrosexual is and I never spend more for a haircut than I can earn in a day. From my first haircut until I left town Curly Fullmer cut my locks. (So named because “Curly” was bald as a cue ball.) Curly was our family barber, as highly respected as our family Doctor, only smarter and more reliable. He even made house calls! None of my dear departed relatives went to heaven without one last trim from Curly. Curly’s one-room shop was attached to his house and his hours were whenever he was home. You didn’t have to make an appointment, you just dropped by after school or after work. His shop smelled like Butch Wax and it wasn’t filled with smelly shampoos or expensive “hair products”. He never tried to sell you hair fertilizer to up your bill which came to a total of fifty cents. The only drawback was that Curly only gave one style of haircut, the kind new Army recruits get their first day on the job. It seems that one-chair barber shops like Curly’s are disappearing That night, Scotty began reading the little book about President Truman. And after he went to bed, he dreamed he was there in the crowd when Senator Truman dedicated the big courthouse. After the students finished their lessons, they gathered outside and hiked to the museum. The lady who worked there was always happy to see the students. Up and down the aisles, she led Scotty and his classmates. She told all about the wonderful and interesting things in the museum. At every stop she talked about what was on display. She told how things were used by people long ago. She pointed to photographs and paintings, and identified all the people in the pictures. The students were very polite as they listened to the stories the lady told. Scotty enjoyed himself very much. Then, about half way through the big exhibition room, Scotty saw something that made him stop and stare. Hanging on the wall was a large picture. It was a picture of the county courthouse that Scotty saw every day on his way to school. But the thing that made Scotty stop and stare was not the courthouse, but the man in a white suit standing in front of the building. Right away Scotty recognized the man. It was Harry Truman. Scotty raised his hand and asked about the picture. The lady said when the courthouse was built in 1939, Harry Truman came to town and helped dedicate the new building. At that time, Mr. Truman was a United States Senator from Missouri, the lady said. Next Week: Chapter Four - Grandfather remembers Author Kay Hively and Illustrator Billie Gofourth-Stewart are both of Neosho, Missouri. Truman photo by Harry Barth. Produced by the Missouri Press Foundation. Copyright 2007. a nd D o hink Aboutit it with a friend or T to s g in h T n, vis rs. Ask m in your tow a museu ed voluntee A. If you have r. Most small museums ne do a volunteer or be d ul co family membe u yo e museum if th at ne eo m . so eum ct for the mus a special proje gs that a e a list of thin nt lu eer? Mak vo a en be . er m ev B. Have you do for a museu lunteer could s boy or girl vo ve in 100 year that you belie a the newspaper per and write pa m fro on s e m es ite th Glue C. Cut 10 eum display us in a museum. y m at pla th dis in on could be could be used used for. side each that or what it was description be hat the item is w g in in pla ex in the future, Museum & an Presidential Visit the Trum ry.org w.trumanlibra Library at ww Get to findin’ Nebraska Statehood Day parties whatever you’re needin’ Antiques • Furniture Clothes • Toys Appliances • Books Collectibles Lawn Decorations Sports Equipment Vehicles • Homes Acreages • Dogs Cats • Employees Whatever you need, want, or want to swap-Find it in the VOICE News Buck Ads! When you subscribe to the VOICE, you’re not just getting all of the week’s important news updates, community events, crime reports and photos. You’re stepping into a helpful network made up of your friends and neighbors. Yes! Sign me up for my hometown paper! Send check for $28 in state, $35 out of state, $28 E-Sub, $50 E-Sub+Print Name Address Phone e y r City, State, Zip E-mail VOICE News P.O. Box 148, Hickman, NE 68372 792-2255 [email protected] Some 3,000 students are expected to attend 10 Nebraska Statehood Day birthday parties throughout the state from February 25-29. The parties will observe the 141st anniversary of Nebraska becoming a state on March 1, 1867. Secretary of State John Gale, the NEBRASKAland Foundation and the Nebraska Humanities Council sponsor the parties. The parties are geared for fourthgrade students because they study Nebraska history during the school year. The parties are limited to classes that make reservations. To make reservations, contact Sharon Hambek at [email protected] or (402) 471-6044. North Platte: 1:30 p.m. Feb. 25, McGahan Activity Center, McDaid Elementary School. Scottsbluff: 9:30 a.m. (MST) Feb. 26, Cougar Palace, Western Nebraska Community College. Chadron: 1:30 p.m. (MST) Feb. 26, Student Center, Chadron State College. O’Neill: 9:30 a.m. Feb. 27, O’Neill Elementary School. Norfolk: 1:30 p.m. Feb. 27, Lifelong Learning Center, Northeast Community College. Nebraska City: 9:30 a.m. Feb. 28, gymnasium, Nebr. City High School. Lincoln: 1:30 p.m. Feb. 28, Champions Club, University of Nebraska Omaha: 9:30 a.m. Feb. 29, Statehood Party Schedule Durham Western Heritage Museum. Boys Town: 1 p.m. Feb. 29, Grand Island: 9:30 a.m. Feb. 25, Palrang Field House. Stuhr Museum. Keep your pet’s teeth clean for better breath and better health! Cortland American Legion 10% OFF DENTAL CLEANING thru February during National Pet Dental Health Month. “Your other family doctor” ANIMAL HAVEN PET HOSPITAL 206 E. 1st, Hickman 8-12 Tues. & Thurs. or by appointment 1401 N. 56th St., #102, Lincoln faster than Republicans in New York City. It’s a sad commentary on today’s society that in the Yellow Pages I can find more places to cut a dog’s hair than I can my own. In my day men went to the barber shop and women went to the beauty parlor. Rich women went every week to read girlie magazines, sit under a hood the size of a 55 gallon oil drum to gossip and complain about their husbands. It was a tradition. Curly would drop his clippers if he saw what has happened to the haircutting business today. The same person might cut a man’s hair and in the same chair and with the same clippers turn right around and cut a woman’s! Preposterous! I take one look at today’s unisex barber shops and long for the days when men were men and women were no place to be seen... at least in the barber shop. To top it all off I understand that these modern day hair stylists expect a big tip when they’re done. I guarantee that the only tip Curly ever got was to never bet on a slow horse. In the clip joint I recently went to there was not a single magazine a real man would be interested in reading. In Curly’s shop we found ancient copies of Sports Illustrated or, for the more intellectually inclined, Popular Mechanics. Curly’s was the first place I ever saw a naked woman... between the covers of a National Geographic! After that shocking revelation my big brother and I timed our visits so we’d have a longer wait in order to catch up on our geography. I also learned from Curly that the mop-topped Beetles were sent to America by the devil to put him out of business. At the salon the first thing the stylist said was, “How do you like your hair?” I never thought about it before but I guess I like it just fine, thanks for asking! What do they mean how do I like it? Curly never asked me that. He also never asked how long I wanted my sideburns or if I wanted my nose hairs trimmed. Frankly, I never knew I had any sideburns and my nose is the only place I can grow any hair so, please, leave it alone! If I wanted a pedicure I’d bite my own nails, thank you very much. And please don’t hold up the mirror for me to approve. What if I don’t like it, are you going to put some of it back? The hair stylist also asked if I wanted a tint job or any highlights. The only highlight I ever got at Curly’s was the time he suddenly got attacked by some bad tuna and had to vacate the shop in a hurry. One of the old guys waiting in the chairs finished cutting my hair. I must say it was easily the best haircut I ever got at Curly’s clip joint! R.L. Eddings, D.V.M. Call for appt. in Lincoln or Hickman 467-1944 or 560-1589 The Cortland American Legion Auxiliary, Spobow #253, met January 14 for their regular meeting. There were 10 members present. They opened with a prayer, the flag salute, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the preamble. They sang God Bless America and This Land is your Land. President, Harriet, conducted the meeting. The minutes were read and a treasurer’s report given. It will be put on file. The dates to remember are: District 11 meeting at Tobias, Sunday, February 24. Phyllis gave an interesting report on the Mid-Winter Conference that she attended in Grand Island. The meeting adjourned and they closed with a prayer. The next meeting will be February 11 at 7:00 at the Cortland Community Center. Lesoing honored for years of service on UNL Extension Board Dean Lesoing, of Hickman (left), was recently recognized for his part in furthering Extension Education. Dean was appointed to the UNL Extension Board in 2001, and he is finishing his final term. He and fellow outgoing board member Deb Arends (right) were recognized by Extension Educator Gary Bergman for their outstanding service to extension. The Nebline photo Tax rebates on their way Starting in May, the Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million individuals. The stimulus payments will go out through the late spring and summer. The vast majority of Americans who qualify for an economic stimulus payment will not have to do anything other than file their 2007 individual income tax return to receive their payment this year. They will not have to complete applications, file any extra forms or call the Internal Revenue Service to request the payment, which is automatic. The IRS will determine eligibility, figure the amount and issue the payment. Stimulus payments will be direct deposited for taxpayers selecting that option when filing their 2007 tax returns. Taxpayers who have already filed with direct deposit won’t need to do anything else to receive the stimulus payment. For taxpayers who haven’t filed their 2007 returns yet, the IRS reminds them that direct deposit is the fastest way to get both regular refunds and stimulus payments. Basic Eligibility The IRS will use the 2007 tax return to determine eligibility and calculate the basic amount of the payment. In most cases, the payment will equal the amount of tax liability on the return with a maximum amount of $600 for individuals ($1,200 for taxpayers who file a joint return) and a minimum of $300 for individuals ($600 for taxpayers who file a joint return). Even those who have little or no tax liability may qualify for a minimum payment of $300 ($600 if filing a joint return) if their tax return reflects $3,000 or more in qualifying income. For the purpose of the stimulus payments, qualifying income consists of earned income such as wages and net self-employment income as well as Social Security or certain Railroad Retirement benefits and veterans’ disability compensation, pension or survivors’ benefits received from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007. However, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not count as qualifying income for the stimulus payment. Low-income workers who have earned income above $3,000 but do not have a regular filing requirement must file a 2007 tax return to receive the minimum stimulus payment. Similarly, Social Security recipients, certain Railroad retirees, and those who receive the veterans’ benefits mentioned above must file a 2007 return in order to notify the IRS of their qualifying income. The IRS emphasized that people with no filing requirement who turn in a tax return to qualify for the economic stimulus payment will not get a tax bill. People in this category will not owe money because of the stimulus payment. VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 13 Let's get the (birthday) party started right TODAY'S PARENTING TOPIC IS: Planning a birthday party for your two-year-old child. The first thing you must decide, when planning a birthday party for a two-yearold, is: Should you invite the two-yearold? Because a child that age can put a real damper on a party. And probably your child doesn't really understand that he or she is turning two. One of the best things about small children is that they have no clue how time works. My twoyear-old daughter believes that everything that has ever happened, including her birth and the formation of the solar system, occurred "yesterday." I have a friend named Helene who made excellent use of this phenomenon when her children were small. If they wanted to do something that, for whatever reason, they couldn't do, Helene, rather than argue, would tell them they could do it on "Tuesday." If her kids wanted to go swimming, and it was January, Helene would say: "We'll go swimming on Tuesday!" And they were satisfied, because they had a definite answer, even though it actually had no meaning. (Airport flight-information monitors are based on the same principle.) Unfortunately, as people grow older, they come to understand the concept of time, unless they are my wife. (Just kidding!) (Not really!) But most two-yearolds have no idea what "two years old" means, and would not notice if you held their birthday party after they went to bed. Another low-stress option is to wait until your child is invited to some OTHER two-year-old's birthday party, and when you get there, tell your child that the party is actually for him or her. ("Look, Jason! Your name is written right here on the cake! L-I-S-A!") Of course, the foregoing suggestions are intended in a purely humorous vein. (Not really!) Unless you are a Bad Parent, you must throw a birthday party for your two-year-old, and you must invite other two-year-olds, and THEY MUST HAVE FUN, even if they don't want to. This is why so many birthday parties feature rental clowns, even though few things are more terrifying to small children than a clown at close range. Stephen King based an entire novel on this concept. Another fun thing that two-year-olds do not enjoy is organized activities. Most two-year-olds are happiest when they are free to wander around in a nonorganized way. So it can be quite a chore to herd a group of them together for organized birthday fun. But you must do this, or the terrorists will have won. When our daughter turned two, we had a big party at our house. That was over a month ago, and we're still finding cake frosting in unexpected places. Our house was filled with two-year-olds, running, falling, yelling, crying, pooping, etc., each with at least one adult in pursuit, trying to organize the child. I honestly didn't know who most of these children were, or how they found out about the party. Maybe the Internet. All I know is, the organized activity we had for them was: art. Yes! We invited small children to our house and DELIBERATELY GAVE THEM PAINT. I believe the reason we did this is that our brains had been turned into cole slaw by the bouncy castle. A bouncy castle is a big rubber inflatable thing that you can rent for birthday parties, weddings, congressional hearings, etc. The idea is that children can climb inside and bounce around and have a lot of fun, unless they find the bouncy castle to be even more terrifying than the rental clown. My daughter LOVED the bouncy castle. That was the good news. The bad news was, the rental company set it up at 8 a.m., six hours before the party started. Once my daughter realized there was a bouncy castle in her yard, she had to be inside it, bouncing, at all times, and she felt very strongly that there had to be a parent in there bouncing with her. So by the time the guests started arriving, my wife and I had spent about three hours apiece bouncing our IQs down into the low teens, which is why we thought it would be fun to give art supplies to twoyear-olds. I'm surprised we didn't let them drive the car. Of course, we also gave them cake, because this is mandatory at birthday parties, even though historically there is no known case of any two-year-old ever actually eating so much as a single molecule of birthday cake. In fact, as far as I can tell, two-year-olds never eat ANYTHING. I think they nourish themselves via some kind of photosynthesis-like process that involves the direct absorption of Play-Doh. In conclusion, holding a birthday party for two-year-olds is both fun and easy. All you have to do is follow a few simple steps! I will cover these on Tuesday. (C) 2008, The Miami Herald Tribune Media Services, Inc. An Optimistic Salmon Feed The Lincoln Optimist Club is having a Salmon Feed, February 29, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, 4530 ‘A’ Street. All you can eat salmon, browned potatoes, coleslaw, rolls, and beverages. Hamburgers will be available for non-salmon eaters. Adults-$8.00; seniors (55+)-$7.00; middle school-$5.00; elementary-$3.00; preschoolers free. All profits will fund Youth Programs in the Lincoln area, and the Optimist Youth Sports Complex. There will be a dessert bar for a freewill donation for helping find a cure for childhood cancer. Carry out available. Tickets at the door or call 488-6544. The Lincoln Optimist Club also has a special youth project to help kids caring for kids and their community. Youth groups may apply for financial assistance to fund Lincoln area projects planned and carried out by kids called, "Kids Helping Kids". The club is looking for unique projects to help others. You can find an application at www.lincolnoptimisclub.com. Page 14 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 February 19, 1998 Wanek and Sattler united in summer wedding Cortland, Firth, Hallam and Sterling – benefited from Nebraska Public Power District lease payments. The power district returned over $3.75 million overall; the total represents a return on investment on the distribution assets owned by Nebraska citizens. Norris qualified three wrestlers for the state tournament in Lincoln: Ryan Kohn, Jesse Sire and Tony Wenz. Troy Rainforth, 22, of Doniphan, was sentenced to 100 days in jail and two years of probation after he was convicted of motor vehicle homicide in Gage County the previous week for an August 1997 accident a few miles northwest of Filley that killed Troy Busboom, 30, of rural Filley, and injured his then five-year-old daughter. A public hearing was scheduled for February 26 in Hickman on zoning and subdivision ordinance changes, which hadn’t been updated since 1977. A Cook of the Week column full of cherry recipes honored the first U.S. president, George Washington, the week of his birthday. The cherries are in reference to the story of him chopping down his father ’s cherry tree. Births: Todd and Teri Buel, Galloway, Ohio, a girl, Conner Renee, born February 3; Todd and Diane (Auman) TeGrotenhuis, Spencer, Iowa, a boy, Justin Lee, born February 9. Obituaries: Mildred Edwards, 73, Sprague; Mary Ann Sugden, 91, Burr; Louise Kindschi, 92, Wilber (born Firth); Lena Margaret Bliefernich, 94, Adams; Lester “Jack” Hollman, 74, Crete; LeRoy Harms, 61, Norwalk, California (formerly of Adams); Dale Lamb, 79, Unadilla (born Bennet); Nathalie Blaser, 88, Lynn Center, Illinois (born Bennet); V. Faye Reed, 97, Beatrice (born near Cortland). Jessica (Zinger) Doolittle, who lived in Hickman during her junior and senior years at Norris High, was the primary interior designer on the SAC Museum Library near Mahoney State Park. She earned an interior design degree from UNL after graduating from Norris in 1989. Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner, county attorney Gary Lacey, and county commissioners Linda Steinman and Kathy Campbell each announced a reelection campaign for their respective offices. Some local communities – Adams, The Norris Board of Education voted unanimously in favor of a 5,000-square-foot addition of land to the district. Superintendent Dennis Nosal said the addition was needed because of Norris’ increasing enrollment. A running track proposal was also approved. Norris School began fundraising for “Project Prom ’88,’” which aimed at providing a drug and alcohol free alternative to post-prom parties. The Adams Board of Education had three positions up for election. Fire caused $3,500 in damage to a rural Panama home owned by Joseph and Sue Beaderman the previous week. Orville Parde, of Adams, rescued Mark Vanderbeek, of Lincoln, from a burning vehicle north of Panama the Friday before. Melody Jensen, of Hickman, was the featured cook. Births: Mr. and Mrs. Greg McCrarey, Poteau, Oklahoma, a boy, Justin, born February 12; Eugene and Karen (Hartman) Jurgens, Adams, a girl, Allison Renae, born February 9. Obituaries: Floyd Megrue, 90, formerly of Roca; Ralph Springman, 85, Palmyra. The Palmyra FHA and student council planned a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration for Palmyra High School. VOICE News readers were treated to a special tax section to help them avoid trouble with the IRS. Area schools qualified wrestlers for state in Lincoln. From Norris were John Mosiman and Jeff Stolzer. Tait Rowley represented Adams. The Palmyra Better Halves Palmyra Mother’s Club The Palmyra Better Halves and spouses held a Valentine’s Night Out on Tuesday, February 12, at the bar in Unadilla. Those enjoying the evening were Karin and Harry Chaffing, Wilma Clem, Karen and Delton Dovel, Kathee and Don Landwehr, Doris and Vernon Latrom, Bertha Malone, Patty Ostrander, Helen Royal, Verle and Joy Schroder, and Verda and Bill Umland. St. Paul United Methodist Church and the Cornhusker Marriott Grand Ballroom in Lincoln were the settings for the July 21 wedding and reception of Lisa Ann Wanek and Barton Cole Sattler, of Manchester, Connecticut. Their parents are Alan and Cindy Wanek, of Crete, and Greg and Linda Sattler, of Cortland. Wanek earned a Bachelor of Science-Nursing degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. She is a registered nurse in the cardiac unit of Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut. Sattler earned a Bachelor of Science degree in actuarial science and mathematics. He is a senior actuarial analyst with Cigna Insurance, of Bloomfield, Connecticut. Attendants were Heather Krieg, of New York City, maid of honor; Hope Mulgrew, of Crete, Kelsey Sanders, of Denver, Dr. Brenda Chrastil, of Houston, Allison Ivers, of Chicago, Katy Kommers and Natalie Riedmann, both of Omaha, bridesmaids; Kristin Sattler, of Cortland, junior bridesmaid; Whitney Johanson, of Lincoln, Terri Rhodes, of Omaha, personal attendants; Ryan Sattler, of Lincoln, best man; Thomas Wanek, of Crete, Matt Breck, Cuyler Gembol, Adam Van DeWater, Jon Brunott, Scott Hackman, all of Lincoln, groomsmen; Jaedon Lothrop, of Crete, ring bearer; Alexandria Drevo, of Santa Barbara, California, flower girl; Robert and Terry Nelson, of Omaha, host couple. The couple took a wedding trip to Hawaii and now resides in the greater Hartford, Connecticut, area. Photo submitted February 18, 1988 Alma Schroder hosted the Mother’s Club in her home. A Valentine exchange was enjoyed with each reading the verse they received in answering roll call. There were six women present. A card was prepared and sent to Bob Broening, who is in a care facility in Lincoln. The Next meeting will be March 13 at the home of Winnie Dowding. Crawfords celebrate 60th Anniversary Don and Noreen Crawford, of rural Lincoln, will celebrate 60 years of wedded bliss on February 24. The Crawfords were married at the Holland Reformed Church, of Holland, in 1948. Their children are Rex and Marilyn Crawford, of Lincoln, Greg and Lyn Crawford, of Roca, Galen and Ann Crawford, of Unadilla, and Kristie and John Fech, of Omaha. The Crawford family will have a family get-together on Sunday March 2. The Crawfords have 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Palmyra Presbyterian Women Presbyterian Women met on February 13 in the lower level of the church, with five women answering roll call. Winnie Dowding gave the lesson of the Least Coin and the collection was taken and blessed. Moderator Jackie Bremer held the business meeting. Plans were discussed for World Day of Prayer, which the Presbyterian Women are hosting on March 7 at 1:30 p.m. The other Churches in the area will be invited to attend. The Spring Luncheon to be held on April 12 at 12:00 p.m. was discussed. The meeting adjourned and the Bible Lesson for the day was led by Winnie Dowding. The Lesson from the Horizons Bible Study this month was “Love That Goes Above and Beyond the Call of Duty” from the book of Ruth. Next month’s meeting will be held on March 7, with the Hunger Offering being taken. There will be no hostess. Sterling Community Association names new officers The Sterling Community Association (SCA) met on January 30 with 16 members attending. The meeting was called to order by President Viola Lucas with secretary and treasurer's reports read and approved. New officers were nominated and voted on with Laurie Saathoff as President, Nancy Harms as Vice President, Gen Lempka as Secretary and Viola Lucas as Treasurer. Ruth Hietbrink and Bob Wolff have started preparing for this year Sterling Picnic, which will be July 12th, 2008. Ruth has again offered to coordinate and be in charge of the car show and Bob will again be in charge of the parade. Ruth will have the VICA class help as they did last year and will be asking for donations to help with the cost of putting the car show on. Last year there were 50 cars entered and she is hoping that this year will be bigger and better. SCA was very pleased with Ruth's efforts last year and wish her good luck this year. Bob, along with Deer Creek Sodbuster's will provide the picnic tables and the sound system for this year's picnic. Bob does an excellent job and his efforts are very much appreciated by the SCA also. Dave Vermeer gave the SCA an overview of our insurance coverage for the different events that the SCA sponsors. This was very informative for all members. Dave also wanted to approach the SCA about a support group meeting for a weight loss/healthy lifestyle program that could be held at the community center. It was discussed and since this would be a community function no rent would have to be paid and therefore, no fee for attending the meeting would have to be paid either. SCA decided to let Dave use the community center and he would be in charge of the program. He will keep us posted on this. Nancy Harms presented an on line program similar to this concept, but would be monitored, you would pay a fee and have goals to be achieved. This program would be for adults and children. Nancy will do more research on this. A new refrigerator and /or dishwasher will be purchased for the community center with funds that were donated by a community member. If a new refrigerator is purchased, the old refrigerator will have to be sold. If this happens, then sealed bids will be taken. Nancy Harms gave us an update on having a wine tasting event in Sterling. It was decided that it would not be held at the same time as the Sterling Picnic. At this time either spring or fall would be a better time to have this event. The fire hall is being considered for a location with Nebraska Wineries to present their wines. SCA will help with a donation to help with expenses to get started. Laurie Saathoff will work on getting donations to purchase American flags to be hung on poles up and down Main Street using the existing brackets. Anyone who would like to donate for a flag may contact Laurie at 866-5536. These flags would be flown on various holidays throughout the year, such as Memorial Day, ect... Gen Lempka will look into having a fundraiser featuring "Joe Hall, Little E'", an Elvis impersonator. If anyone would like to voice their opinion on having a fundraiser such as this, please call Gen at 866-2321. Good Search.com made $12.11 for SCA and if everyone would use this site it would help our income for next year. Thanks to all who have used it. A bill was presented to SCA from Marvin Schwab for paint. Mr. Schwab owns a building on main street and in an effort to improve the appearance of his building; he painted it and now has presented SCA for the cost of the paint. The SCA has money ear marked for all businesses in Sterling who are willing to improve their "store fronts". This was set up to keep "Sterling Beautiful" and SCA would love to help in the effort to do just that. Contact anyone of the four officers if interested in doing this for your business. Laurie: 866-5536, Nancy: 866-6431, Gen: 866-2321 or Viola: 866-5644. The SCA next meeting will be February 25, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. at the community center. All are welcome along with your ideas and thoughts. Douglas UMW Douglas United Methodist Women met Thursday, February 7, at the Church. Seven members were present. The meeting was opened by President Betty Hartman reading a thought about contentment. Dorothy Sterns shared readings from the Prayer Calendar and reported there were 71 people who work with the missions who had birthdays the last month. She led in prayer for the missionaries. “Empowering Widows” was read by Betty Hartman from the Response Magazine. The lesson “Call to Prayer and Self Denial” titled “Learning for a Lifetime” was presented by Ruth Hartman. An offering was received. Hostess Dorothy Sterns served a delicious lunch using a Valentine theme. VOICE As I read the scriptures for these weeks in February, I think about this season of the church year that we find ourselves in, this season called Lent, and I can’t help but remember this past summer. It’s February and you’re thinking about summer? Yes, it may sound strange to you at first, but what if I told you this. Last summer, Mr. Pat (my husband) and I were spiritual directors of Saddle Up in the Son, a church camp affectionately known as Horse Camp, for fifth and sixth graders. Last summer ’s theme for the United Methodist camps in Nebraska was On the Way, so with our campers we talked about faith journeys, and rode horses, and talked about growing spiritually, and went hiking and swimming, and rode horses, and you get the picture. Several of the bible passages we used this summer are showing up in our Lenten scriptures as well. It’s no small wonder, really, because historically, Lent has been a period of preparation for baptism when new converts learn from mentors in the faith, examine their lives through the lens of God’s grace, and walk together in their spiritual journey. Even today, the season of Lent is seen as a time of preparing oneself for Easter, whether baptism is a part of that or not. Essentially, that’s what we do at camp, too. We journey together with our campers as they grow in their faith. One passage in common is when … the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred … to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you … so that you will be a blessing.” (Genesis 12:12) In essence, God said, “Go, and trust that I will go with you. And you will be blessed AND be a blessing to others because of your belief and trust.” Another scripture in common is the time after Jesus’ own baptism when he was tempted by the devil in the wilderness, not once, but three times. (Matthew 4:111) Jesus was tempted to turn stones into loaves of bread to satisfy his hunger, but he didn’t. Jesus was tempted to throw himself down off the pinnacle of the temple and in doing so test God, but he didn’t. And Jesus was tempted to worship the devil instead of God, in exchange for all the kingdoms and power of the world, but he didn’t. How are these two passages helpful to us as we make our own way on our spiritual journeys? Whether we are a young camper or new convert or seasoned mentor or somewhere in between, we should realize that there will always be temptations in this world that we must learn to deal with. Some temptations, we may tell ourselves, we can deal with on our own. But seasoned faith mentors know that there are other temptations that we can only deal with if we have God’s help. And you want to know something? We always have God’s help … we just forget to call on God for help … until it’s almost too late and we’re up to our necks in quicksand. Take it from me … don’t wait! Call on God to help you deal with those things that tempt you. Wherever we are on our journey, taking baby steps or running toward the prize or steadying ourselves after each measured step with cane or walker in hand, we can know that just like Abram we will be blessed AND we will be a blessing to others on the journey because of our faith and trust in God. We can know that we are not alone, for God journeys with us. Thanks for hooking up with me this week on this stretch of the journey. Pastor Pat Norris, Palmyra and Cheney United Methodist Churches To be married March 20 Tri-County Lenten breakfast was held at the Sprague Community Church on Saturday morning. Those from Cortland United Church who attended were, Dorothy Balderson, Pam Boesiger, Irene Boesiger, Rose Kelly, Eileen Price, Lola Spidell and Ruth Young. Greta McMullen hosted a soup luncheon at her home on Valentine's Day for Becky Schmale, Donna Reiswig and Maxine Pfeiffer. It was a friendly get-together. Alice Moormeir was unable to attend. Evan and Ruth Young met Easy and Ileen Hartwig at a Lincoln restaurant on Valentine’s Day for their yearly lunch for those married 50 years or more. The Sweetheart dinner held at the Cortland Community Center Saturday evening was prepared by the Youth group of the Church, and their parents; it was well attended. April Teet provided piano music and the Homestead Harmonizers sang several "Sweetheart" songs to those present. A job well done by a group of young people and a delicious meal were enjoyed. Linda Lueders, Maxine Pfeiffer, and Leon and Phyllis Deunk were among those from Cortland who attended the dedication of the new Hallam Auditorium Sunday afternoon. Gary Windle was a guest of Linda Lueders at the Sweetheart dinner in Cortland Saturday evening. Dominique Miller, who attends Northwestern College in Orange Flapjacks at Shepherd of the Hills Shepherd of the Hills Church at 68th and Panama Rd. will hold a Pancake Supper on Wed. Feb. 27 from 5-7:30 p.m. A freewill offering will be held. Soup at St. Martin St. Martin Catholic Church in Douglas will host its annual Soup Dinner & Bazaar on Sunday, March 2. Food will be served from 10:30 am to 1:00 p.m. Attendees may give a freewill offering. Tacos, talent show at Bennet Church Tacos and Talents combine at the Bennet Community Church on Sunday, March 2. Tacos will be up for grabs at 5:30 p.m., and the talent show will start at 7 p.m. Call 432-4010 or 782-2350 to sign up for the talent show. Pella Reformed Soup Supper March 3 Pella Reformed Church will hold a soup supper on Monday, March 3, from 5:30 - 7 p.m. The church is located at Hwy 43 and Pella Rd. A freewill offering is all you need to grab some chili, turkey noodle soup, relishes and homemade pie. Palmyra FCE The Palmyra FCE group met at the Senior Center with Jackie Bremer as hostess. There were two guests present, Margaret Broening and Lisa Wilen along with her three girls . The School entries for the three contest of Characters Counts by fourth graders, The Environmental essay by third graders and the Recycling posters by the fifth graders were judged by the women. Winners of these contests will be recognized at the April County Association Meeting. A short business meeting followed. Nancy Lincoln will host the next meeting in March at the Senior Center. Order of the Eastern Star Palmyra Chapter # 257 met in regular session on February 12 with 15 members present. Plans were made for the visit of the supervisor on Saturday, March 29. Ruth Neeman served lunch. The next meeting will be on March 11. Palmyra UMW Mandy Kent and Brandon Cramer are planning a March 20 wedding at Cortland United Church in Cortland. Their parents are Sherry Kent and Dennis Kent, of Lincoln, Cheryl Quackenbush, of Hallam, and the late Gene Cramer. Mandy earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from UNMC. She is a pediatric physical therapist with Beatrice Community Hospital. Brandon earned an Agriculture Business Management degree from Southeast Community College. He is a heavy equipment operator with Gana Trucking and Excavating. Photo submitted Palmyra United Methodist Women met February 13 at the home of Gloria Hall. A pledge service was held and plans were made for some of the activities on Palmyra Festival Day in June. Also, they are planning to hold a quilt show in 2009 with the double wedding ring being the featured quilt. Watch for details! NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 - Page 15 CORTLAND Maxine Pfeiffer 798-7665 City, Iowa, spent the weekend at home. Later, on Sunday afternoon, Evan and Ruth Young and John and Kay Miller ate at a Lincoln restaurant. Dominique left to go back to school. Andres, Jennifer, Ana Marie, Abigail, Hailey and Jasmine Boesiger spent the weekend with Fred and Barb Boesiger. Andres and Jennifer attended the YF Sweetheart Dinner with Fred and Barb. Andres, Jennifer and Jasmine spent Saturday morning with great-grandma Alice- Leone while Fred and the three older girls went to Lincoln. Special music at the Cortland United Church included Jeff, Sarah and Ray Schaeffer (son and grandchildren of Harriet Schaeffer) on bass, guitar, viola and vocal and a Kay and Dominique vocal duet with piano accompaniment. Cortland United Church held a special offering for the Gretchen DeVries Memorial Scholarship at the Asian Rural Institute. Gretchen died on February 24, 2005. Joint Lenten services of the Hallam UCC and UMC Churches, Cortland United Church and St. James R.C. will be held at 7 p.m. on February 24 at Hallam UCC and March 2 at St. James. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast.” Eph. 2:8-9 Evangelical Free Church of Firth Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Sunday Worship: 10:15 a.m. AWANA, Wed.: 7-8:30 p.m. Reformed Church of Firth Firth, NE • 402-791-5800 Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. 3rd & Nemaha ~ Firth 791-5598 Wed.7:00-8:15 p.m. Prayer Meetings, God’s Kids and for JC Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, ELCA Hickman Presbyterian Church 68th & Panama Rd., Hickman 402-792-2901 • Pastor Ron Drury Sundays- 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 9:45 a.m. Sunday School Ed. Class 11 a.m. Celebration Worship Wed. - 7:15 p.m. Worship 8 p.m. Bible Study Country Bible Church 148th at Roca Road, Bennet (402-782-8022) Service ~ 10:15 Sunday School ~ 9:00 Bennet Community Church 300 E. Third, Hickman, NE 402-792-2800 Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Rev. Robert Field, Pastor Faith of Our Fa thers Fathers Lutheran Chur ch Church Missouri Synod - www.foofchurch.org Locust & E St., Roca NE 421-2222 Sunday Worship Service 9:00 a.m. Sun. School & Bible Study 10:15 a.m. Lenten Service 7 p.m. Every Wed. HOLLAND SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m Pastor Darin Corder ~ 782-2385 22315 SOUTH 96TH STREET Holland, Nebr. • 792-2571 Pastor Robert Martinez Worship Sat. 9 a.m. Sabbath School 10:30 a.m. St. James Catholic Church Countryside Alliance Church Father Leo Seiker Cortland, NE • 798-7335 Sunday Mass 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. IN PRINCETON ON HWY. 77 Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. Pastor Nathan Reckling Confessions before Sunday Mass 402-798-7318 Come celebrate the Most Holy Eucharist with us! Pella Reformed Church St. Martin Catholic Church Fr. Christopher Barak, pastor 125 W. 3rd St./Douglas, NE Masses: 2nd/4th Sun. of month, 9 a.m.; Sat. Mass @ 6:00/alternating weekends. Confessions heard before Mass. Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church 955 C St • Palmyra • 402-780-5668 Pastor Brenda Pfeifly Sunday School- 8:45 a.m. Sunday Service- 10:00 a.m. HOLLAND REFORMED CHURCH 96th & Panama Rd • Holland Interim Pastor - Randy Blumer Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:45 Wednesday Night Supper - 5:30 - 6:10 - freewill offering God’s Kids Club 6:10 - 7:30 (3yrs - 8th Gr) Adult Bible Study 6:10 - 7:30 p.m. Heartland Community Church 307 Ford St., Filley, NE Pastor Allen Harder Phone: 662-3380 Sunday School 9 a.m. Worship 10 a.m. Hwy. 43 & Pella Road 402-788-2729 Worship 9:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m Sunday School 10:45 a.m. www.pellachurch.org A Place of Refuge —Ps. 2:12b Sprague Community Church 18800 Market Street, Sprague (402-794-4835) Sunday Worship 9 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 Keith Morris, Pastor Hallam United Methodist Church 500 Main St. • 784-2008 Pastor Mark Nikont Worship 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. VOICE A Church Directory ad this size is available for $7.50 per week. If you have questions or need further information call: (402) 792-2255 • (402) 782-6060 Page 16 - VOICE NEWS, Thursday, February 21, 2008 Adams native returns to home in New Orleans after two years After two and a half years of getting by in a trailer near her home in New Orleans, Meredith (Siefkes) Eldridge is in her beloved house again. Her home didn’t suffer water damage in Hurricane Katrina, but a large tree fell on it during the storm (left). Meredith lives in the Garden District, an area near the French Quarter. Since she considers it the perfect place to live, Meredith decided to hire workers to revive her home. Hundreds of homes have not been touched or cleaned up for various reasons, but her home has been repaired and the trees are flowering beautifully (right). Meredith currently works for Vivatone, a hearing aid company based in Connecticut, from her home. She is in Europe right now, working as an international audiologist. Meredith graduated from Adams High School and has fond memories of the farm. She looks forward to coming home to the Adams area three to four weekends a year. Photos submitted Area's Largest Agriculture Exposition coming to Omaha od o F d o o G es c i r P d o & Go Thurs ~ 5-7 p.m. Spaghetti Buffet $5.95 Friday ~ 5 - 9 p.m. Fish Dinner $5.95 includes salad, potato & rye bread Saturday ~ 5 - 9 p.m. Check out our Saturday Night Specials! Sunday ~ 5 - 7 p.m. Hamburgers $1 KARAOKE 2nd & 4th Sat. each month Steak Night 8 oz NY Steak, salad, potato, roll $6.95 Sat. Feb. 23, 8:30 p.m. Full Menu Available Lounge open 5 - 12 Thrus. - Sun. BINGO 2 p.m. every Sun. w/ 2 progressive jackpots •Prime Rib Special Friday Nights DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS DENTON LEGION CL UB CLUB 797-2535 Denton Bring your neighbors and friends for a good time close to home. 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Mon.-Sat. 3-9 p.m. Sun. Sadie’s Place downtown Hickman 792-2707 Soup’s On! Come & Get It While It’s Hot! Homemade from scratch the Stauffer’s way. Monday: Chicken & Rice, Corn Chowder Tuesday: Ham & Bean, Tomato Macaroni Wednesday: Hamburger Veg, Chicken Noodle Thursday: Potato, Turkey Vegetable Friday: Borscht, Broccoli Cheese Saturday: Chef’s Choice Chili Everyday! 5602 So. 48th, Lincoln Just south of Hwy 2 423-2206 M -F – 6 A.M. - 8 P.M. SAT. – 6 A.M.- 2 P.M. One of the Midwest's premier indoor farm events, the Triumph of Agriculture Exposition will be held March 12 and 13, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Qwest Center-Omaha, 10th and Capitol Avenue, just off I-480. The 42nd Annual Farm and Ranch Machinery Show will once again be filled with the latest agricultural innovations, equipment and supplies with more than 900 exhibits for farmers, ranchers, and their wives to visit all on one level of over 200,000 square feet in the state-of-the-art Qwest Center-Omaha. "It's an excellent opportunity to see all types of Short-Line farm equipment, new products, labor and time saving ideas all under one roof," says Bob Mancuso, Sr. , the Show's Producer. "The Triumph of Ag Expo is the best place for farmers to find answers for what they do control while taking advantage of the new technologies at the Expo - ranging from machinery to new plant varieties that are available." The Farm Show is open 9 AM to 5 PM both days. Advance free admission tickets can be obtained from Exhibitors, County Extension agents, farm machinery and equipment dealers or at the Qwest Center-Omaha door. This is an ideal time for area Farm Operators to find ways to improve productivity and increase profits, before spring field work begins. John Fonda, president of John Day Company and Show Co-Chairman from Omaha, Nebraska says he's looking for a great Show at the Qwest Center Omaha and says, "The Triumph of Ag Expo is always packed with lots of new improvements and helpful information." At no other time this spring will area Farm Operators be able to see this much farm equipment and technology on display. The Triumph of Ag Expo offers visitors All You Can Eat Fish Fry Fri. Feb 22 5:30 p.m. Filley Tavern 200 Livingston, 402-662-3755 a hands-on experience with continuous demonstrations so those attending will be able to compare and evaluate quickly and conveniently, all under one roof, in one location and on one level with over 4,500 on-site parking available. Regarded as one of the largest indoor diversified short-line farm machinery shows, Terry Twiestmeyer, President of Twiestmeyer & Associates of Grand Island, Nebraska and general Show CoChairman said, "The Expo has something for every kind of farm operation," including tillage equipment, planters, monitor and control systems, soil testing equipment, mowers, cattle chutes, augers, fertilizers, various seed hybrids, feeders, tanks and pumps, hay moving and handling equipment, plows, combines, computers and software, tractors, and many more agricultural products and services for today's farmers and ranchers. Bob Mancuso, Jr., Show Director, said if you are interested in agriculture and farming, this year's Expo is the place to be on March 12th and 13th. In addition to all of the latest equipment, products, and services, there will be seminars throughout the Show, craft items and displays, antique farm tractors and equipment, and special programs. The Triumph of Agriculture Exposition Farm & Ranch Machinery Show is produced by Mid-America Expositions, Inc. and is sponsored by the MidAmerica Farm & Ranch Machinery Council. For additional information, go to: www.showofficeonline.com [email protected] Candidates set for presidential primary election Secretary of State John Gale has set the slate of presidential candidates that will appear on the ballot for the May 13 Nebraska primary election. The candidates (in alphabetical order) are: —Republican Party: Mike Huckabee, John McCain and Ron Paul. —Democratic Party: Hillary Clinton, Mike Gravel and Barack Obama. —Green Party: Jesse Johnson, Cynthia McKinney, Kent Mesplay and Kat Swift. —Nebraska Party: Don J. Grundmann, Bryan Malatesta and Diane Beall Templin. Under Nebraska’s “all-star” primary process, the secretary of state determines the presidential candidates appearing on the ballot. Gale noted that the primary election results will not determine delegation selection for either the Republican or Democratic national conventions that will select presidential nominees.