The event will include a meal of pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans, chips, salads and desserts, as well as a silent auction on a number of items.

The proceeds will go toward the children of Ashley and Jordan Moes, who died tragically on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

PLAINVIEW – Pierce County Economic Development invites area entrepreneurs, business owners, community leaders, and residents to attend a special Lunch & Learn program on Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Plainview Public Library, 209 N. Pine St. in Plainview.

The featured speaker will be Benjamin Benton, MBA, MSLE director of the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) at Wayne State Col- lege. Benton will present "Artificial Intelligence and Small Business De-

velopment," exploring how artificial intelligence is helping businesses in- novate, improve efficiency, streamline operations, and create new opportunities for growth.

Serving businesses across northeast and north central Nebraska, Benton brings extensive experience in business advising, entrepreneurship, and rural economic development. His presentation will provide practical insights for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in understanding how AI can be used to strengthen their organizations and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving business environment.

In addition to the AI discussion, attendees will hear a special update from Josh Moenning, director, regarding the NextEra Solar Project in Pierce County. The presentation will provide an overview of current project developments and discuss potential opportunities for the region.

“Bringing educational and economic development resources to our communities is a key part of our mission,” said Judith Stanton, executive director of Pierce County Economic Development. “This Lunch & Learn offers valuable information for businesses, community leaders, and residents interested in technology, innovation, and the future growth of Pierce County.”

The event is designed to encourage networking, collaboration, and informed discussion among local stakeholders while highlighting resources available to support business and community development. Refreshments will be served.

Pierce County Economic Development looks forward to welcoming attendees for an informative and engaging afternoon of learning, networking, and discussion focused on business growth, innovation, and community development.

The city council also held the public hearing on the One- and Six-Year Street Plan. City Clerk Brittney Timmerman reviewed the plan with those in attendance and reminded them that the one-year plan includes the streets that the current street grant was applied for. Maintenance Supervisor Caleb Eckstrom reminded council that Prairie Street from Main to the west edge of city limits is now the city’s responsibility and council may want to consider adding it to the plan next year. Resolution 2026-3, One- and Six-Year Plan, will also be printed with the minutes next week.

Insurance Discussed

A review of the municipal insurance policy was given by Lisa Schmit and Andrew Wolff of Highstreet Insurance company. The review showed a lower premium increase than anticipated of just a 2% overall increase. At the end of the meeting Council accepted the insurance renewal as proposed.

Treasurer Brittney Timmerman presented quotes from Josh Sirek with Highstreet Insurance on voluntary vision and dental insurance. She explained it would be billed to the city with voluntary participation for the full-time city employees with a payroll deduction for the premium amounts. Timmerman said it requires two city employees to be on the plan for it to be offered. Council members approved the voluntary dental and vision at no cost to the City.

City Approves Pickleball Expense Grant Albers, pickleball player, was in attendance to review an updated quote with council which totaled an estimated $2,817.31. He explained they were asking permission to turn the west tennis court into two east and west pickleball courts using permanent pickleball nets.

Maintenance Supervisor Eckstrom suggested instead of using the permanent nets and disabling full court basketball if the group would consider two pickleball courts where the existing tennis courts are by utilizing the tennis net poles and drilling in the flooring additional holes to allow the nets to be taken down and put up for either tennis or pickleball.

John Aschoff was in attendance to speak about other organizations who were required to raise funds to have projects completed and wanted to remind council if they chose to move forward and cover the whole project expense, they would be setting a precedent moving forward. Council ap- proved having the city office purchase the supplies not to exceed $3,500.

Other Items Discussed

With the concrete project on 6th Street between Main Street and the west alley complete, Phil Gutz thanked the maintenance crew for all their work on the street. He also wanted to share information with the council that the billed concrete amount had come in approximately double what was originally estimated from the beginning of the project and suggested with any future projects similar to this one they may want to consider adding a percentage onto the estimate provided to allow for any unforeseen circumstances.

Maintenance Supervisor Eckstrom brought to council’s attention a drainage swale at Park and 7th Street that they have attempted to clean up a few different times but have always been halted by a nearby resident. With no progress made to maintain the area, the maintenance crew is requesting council’s input on what should be done. It was agreed that Councilman Doug Schmit and the maintenance crew will meet at the specified area to come up with a plan.

An ordinance was brought before council as requested from last month’s meeting when council decided to move forward with prohibiting engine breaking in city limits. Ordinance 2026-9 Engine Breaking was introduced and passed by council members. The ordinance is printed in this issue of the Osmond Republican and is also available for inspection and distribu- tion at the offices of the City Clerk at the City Office.

Council approved Resolution 20266 to accept a land donation from Ronald and Terri Stech. The land is located along Highway 20 on the South side of the North Fork Elkhorn River. The Resolution will be printed in the city minutes next week.

Clerk Timmerman brought to council’s attention that there were municipal building codes adopted in 2019 that seems like they were adopted to assist with building demolition processes, so the council at that time had appointed the city clerk as the code enforcement officer. After speaking with the plan ning and zoning administrator, it was discovered that the person appointed to that position is required to take a class and be certified/licensed in doing that task. She asked council what they would like her to do. Council agreed to investigate who is licensed in the area and report back at next month’s meeting.

Clerk Timmerman presented the Interlocal Cooperation Act Agreement between Pierce County and the City of Osmond. It was received and signed by the mayor after last month’s meeting, since it was due back to the CITY COUNCIL MEETING

county by the end of last month. This agreement will provide $11,220 for the City’s Library budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Before approval of the claims, after the council reviewed the claims list, Treasurer Timmerman asked council if they had any questions on any claims. With no response she informed them that there was a test claim on the list this month. She pointed out the Eakes claim for the new copier in the amount of $4,000.00. Timmerman reminded them that the new copier was on next fiscal year's budget, not the current one and that the amount approved was not $4,000.00.

Police Chief Wells presented a report on recent activity within the city including one intoxicated domestic incident, three parking complaints, one request from Norfolk Police Department, three follow up on case, one verbal warning for speeding and one civil matter question, to name a few. Wells also reported that he attended domestic violence training in Wayne and another training on the County Attorney program for evidence submission.

With a formal request for review letter of an approved building permit submitted and reviewed, Mayor Kuhl stated that all planning and zoning regulations have been met with no violations. He informed those in attendance that other items in the letter are a civil matter between them and the applicant. After some discussion the requesting party stated they would be submitting additional questions and will await a response from Planning and Zoning Admin Heather Mc-Whorter. There are no other attorney matters to report.

In other business, the council: tabled the street grant topic until the Oct. 12 meeting.

— approved the Lot Split Application from property owner Ron Stech, along Highway 20 on the South side of the North Fork Elkhorn River.

— approved the $1,000.00 annual payment to the Senior Citizens Center for the Down Memory Lane utilities this month.

— approved a 3rd Street Bar & Grill special designated liquor license application for a paint and sip at Lew Crew Creations on Oct. 24.

— reviewed the following approved building permits: Kristie Schultze, addition onto existing garage; Marvin Lambrecht, new house/shop/garage; Russell Taylor, prebuilt storage shed; Josh Hasler, lean-to and Dylan Hall, storage shed.

— heard Mayor Kuhl state city sales tax for June 2026 was a total of $26,394.45 (of that amount $4,840.38 is from motor vehicle tax).

Randy L. Rasmussen, violating no passing zone, $120 The following are for speeding: Dawn M. Harturg, $170; Amber J. Griffin, $220

MARRIAGE LICENSES

Jordan William Gonzalez, Neligh, and Diana Guadulpe Felix-Linares, Neligh.

Lane Isaac Henderson, Monowi, and Lily Ann Schurke, Monowi.

Trenton Joseph Kula, Silver Creek, and Mackenzie Lyn Pinney, Osceola.

Riley Levi Carlson, Pierce, and Antoinette Rosa Miles, Sioux City, IA.

REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS Bradley Roberts and wife to Edward Schmale, Leonard Schmale, NW¼, 1-26-1.

Lon M. Knievel and wife to Dain Hember, Lots 16, 17, 18, Block 3, Original Town of Osmond.

Gordon G. Kumm and wife to Ashley D. Schmidt, NW¼, 17-28-1.

Timothy G. Dozler to Jennifer K. Dozler, Tonya B. Dozler, Michael G. Dozler, Timothy J. Dozler, Edward E. Dozler, Skye H. Dozler, Lot 2, Block 34, Original Town of Pierce.

Travis J. Podany, Amy J. Weber aka Amy J. Weber-Podany to Amy J. Weber, Pt. SE¼NE¼, 26-26-2, Lot D Replat Lots 4-11, Block 1, Willow Ridge of Pierce.

September is National College Savings Month. It’s an opportunity to highlight important tools that help families reduce the financial burdens that often come with education after high school.

This year, the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST 529) is marking its 25th anniversary. Since its launch in 2001, NEST 529 has grown to more than 300,000 accounts with $8 billion in assets. Administered by the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office, NEST 529 has one of the nation’s highest participation rates and continues to earn a Medalist Rating from Morningstar.

Nebraskans can celebrate thousands of success stories made possible by families who planned ahead. While NEST 529 continues to evolve with Nebraska’s changing education system and workforce needs, its mission has remained constant: helping families prepare financially for education and life beyond high school.

As we enter NEST 529’s next quarter century, we know that planning and saving will play an even more important role in preparing for higher education and vocational training.

According to the College Savings Foundation’s 2026 Survey, 71% of parents anticipate taking on some debt to pay for their child’s education, including 46% who expect to use education loans. With that in mind, here are six reasons to consider opening a NEST 529 account today: Long-Term Growth. Even modest, consistent contributions can grow over time. Starting early gives those savings more time to grow and can reduce reliance on loans.

Tax Advantages. Earnings grow tax-deferred and withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free. Nebraska account owners may qualify for state income tax deductions of up to $10,000 per year ($5,000 if married and filing separately), making NEST 529 a smart, tax-advantaged way to save for higher education.

Flexibility. NEST 529 funds can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, and more. Accounts can be transferred between beneficiaries, so families can adjust as circumstances change. NEST funds may also be used at eligible public and private colleges and universities, community colleges, trade and vocational schools, registered apprenticeships, graduate school, and even for recognized credentials and certifications for skilled trades.

Generational Support. Grandparents, relatives, and friends can contribute to a child’s account, turning birthdays and holidays into opportunities to invest in a child’s future rather than buying short-lived gifts.

Debt Prevention. By building savings in advance, families reduce the need to borrow. Every dollar saved today is a dollar not borrowed tomorrow. Families also may use NEST funds to repay qualified education loans, subject to a $10,000 lifetime limit per individual.

Minimal Impact on Financial Aid Eligibility. A parent-owned NEST account is treated as a parental asset for federal financial aid purposes, rather than as a student asset. Distributions from 529 plans owned by a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or other non-parent are no longer reported as student income when applying for federal financial assistance. At a time when student loan debt is limiting the future of too many Americans, tools that reduce borrowing can provide a smoother path ahead. NEST 529 offers families a practical, flexible, and forwardlooking way to reclaim control over how they pay for education. It’s one of the smartest ways to prepare for education and career training, whatever that looks like in the future.

Visit NEST529.com to learn more, including answers to frequently asked questions. Rachel Biar Nebraska Deputy Treasurer for Savings Programs

The program will meet at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center at 10 a.m. It will include a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years.

For more information, contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Don’t forget to purchase a Nebraska Vehicle Park Entry Permit to enter the state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska. gov or at state park entrances.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has compiled an updated list of available public and private ranges to help hunters prepare for their hunting seasons.

“Now is the time to make sure your firearm or bow are shooting straight and hitting the mark,” said Kyle Gaston, Nebraska Hunter Education coordinator. “Spending time now with your equipment can make all the difference in having a safe and memorable hunt this year.”

To see a list of participating shooting ranges, visit OutdoorNebraska. gov/hunt/prepare-to-hunt/sight-indays. The site includes dates, locations and hours of operations for Game and Parks and partner ranges, any associated costs and any other special requirements.

Choice of cereal, yogurt or menu item for breakfast; K-12 choice of salad, yogurt, peanut butter and jelly sandwich or menu item for lunch; fruit and veggie bar every day. Choice of milk: 1% white; fat-free chocolate or strawberry.

Monday

Breakfast: Cereal and toast.

Lunch: Meatball sub, French fries, celery with peanut butter, “sidekick.”.

Tuesday

Breakfast: Breakfast burrito.

Lunch: Black bean burger with cheese slice and sauce, potato tots, fresh fruit.

Wednesday

Breakfast: Coffee cake.

Lunch: Chicken tater tot casserole with mixed veggies, biscuit, peach cup.

Thursday

Breakfast: English muffin with egg and cheese.

Lunch: Breaded pork patty, scalloped potatoes, cooked carrots, dinner roll, Mandarin oranges.

Friday

Breakfast: Cereal and yogurt. Lunch: Sixth grade menu — Biscuits and gravy, hash brown, watermelon, chocolate cake.

The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Every third Monday — American Legion Auxiliary Unit 326 meets, Legion hall. No meetings in July, August or December.

Every second Tuesday — American Legion Post 326 and Sons of the American Legion meet, Legion hall.

Every Wednesday — AA meets at Osmond General Hospital. Osmond Food Pantry open at United Methodist Church, 9-11 a.m.

For food voucher assistance, call Osmond United Methodist Church, 402-748-3302.

We understand the railroad company will build a new depot at Foster this spring.

The Osmond gallery is opened each Monday where the best photographs are taken. Come in.

Mitchell & Saunders have just added a fine new glass hat case in which they have displayed a large line of fine gents' head wear.

Lintt Bros., who recently moved to this place from Wausa, will soon begin the erection of a building to be used as a photo gallery. With two photo shops in town, our people ought to be able to have their wants supplied.

100 Years Ago. . .

Nick Goeres sold his dray line to Herman Meyer. Nick had enjoyed a fine business, and the many friends of Mr. Meyer wished him success.

In the Public School Notes, the names of those students who had grades of 90% or above in the number of subjects were as follows: 4 subjects, Dale Scott; 3 subjects, Ruth Paddock and Marcella Loebe; 2 subjects, Genevieve Kuhl, Marguerite Schubert, Tony Hassler, Marcy Sandau, Woodrow Scott, Edward Wingert, Vera Mayer, Gordon Senift, Monica Loebe, Frank Stanosheck, Clifton Huwaldt, Doris Blackmer. A “Black List” was maintained for those having failing grades in one or more subjects.

Friday, Sept. 17, 1926, was known in high school as “Freshman Initiation Day.” The affair was in the nature of initiation all day, parade downtown in the morning before school with appropriate exercises, assembly program and an all high school party in the evening. In spite of the rain storm, 65 spent an enjoyable evening at the city hall.

In district court at Pierce, the following from received their final citizenship papers: Joseph Petsche, William Frank Kumm and Martin Wendell of Osmond; Herman Wragge and Robert Emil Otto Krehnke of Pierce; Carl Edvin Johnson of McLean, Wilhelm Heidemann and John Seefelt of Hadar, William Reikofski of Foster and Carna Lyungren of Plainview.

O. B. Miller brought up a melon that weighed 36 pounds and measured 33 inches long. It was planted June 14.

J. R. Thomas advertised the following specials: Hammer handles, 3 for 25¢; ax handle, 40¢; dust pans, 10¢; dinner pails, 15¢; set of dinner plates, 65¢; ladies' stockings, 15¢ a pair.

75 Years Ago. . .

Nick Windeshausen, Osmond Theisen Bros. employee, was recovering in a cast covering the upper part of his body from a broken neck suffered in an accident on Sept. 1, 1951. It was near Laurel where one Theisen crew was working on Highway 20 that Windeshausen slipped and fell backward while starting the auxiliary motor on a crawler-type tractor, lighting on his back and neck. He worked throughout the remainder of the day, came home that evening and consulted a doctor and was taken to St. Joseph hospital at Sioux City where the cast was applied.

Members of Osmond School Board No. 42 purchased a 36-passenger bus which would be used for school activities including transportation to basketball and football games, music tours, etc., The bus was a 1946 model Chevrolet.

PFC Dale Koehler wrote to his parents about his experiences crossing the Pacific and duty overseas: Aug. 20 — They have coke machines aboard that operate about like a drugstore fountain. You drop a nickel in a slot, a paper cup drops down and then from one spout comes the soda water and from another comes the coke and I've never seen it run a cup over yet. In a later letter, he wrote "There's more kids in this country than you can shake a stick at. The houses are more like shacks. . . Another thing about the shacks is they have a little pen with a roof over it built right onto the side of the house and there they keep about a half a dozen chickens.” And upon arriving in Korea, “I thought the people in Japan were primitive but they are modern compared to these Koreans, or at least what I've seen, and it smells like a pig pen over here.”

The Legion Auxiliary held its regular monthly meeting and afterwards, they had a Mother Goose party, all who cared to coming in costume of their choosing. The first prize went to Miss Orin Kumm as “Little Boy Blue.” Mrs. Gilbert Burlingame took second prize as “Old Mother Hubbard.” Mrs. Web Steckelberg was third choice impersonating “Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater.”

65 Years Ago. . .

Sixty-six persons — 29 boys, 30 girls and seven adults — received the sacrament of Confirmation administered by the Most Rev. Archbishop Gerald T. Bergan of Omaha in a service beginning at St. Mary's Church at 10:30 a.m. on a Monday. The church was filled to capacity as the class was confirmed. Confirmation rites were administered by the Archbishop in the eight parishes of the Creighton Deanery on that tour. After the Osmond rite came Plainview on the same day, and in succeeding days Brunswick, Creighton, Verdigre, Niobrara, Crofton and Bloomfield.

Minor structural changes at Osmond were being made in at least these instances: A double garage at the Delmer Neubauer home, an extension of the parlor at the Boyd Edwards home, a new office at Edwards Feed & Grain, a complete new front in the Osmond Republican building, and a new double garage at the John Kumm home. Major projects were the early construction period for a new Lutheran church and the near finish of a $400,000 new public school.

Students participating in musical activities at OHS had begun the 196162 term with several new additions, according to Donald Weinand, public schools music instructor. Practice periods were set up for the mixed chorus, girls' glee and boys' glee. A mixed octet, girls' octet, boys' octet and madrigal chorus were also in the making. Plans for the mixed chorus included one TV appearance, Christmas caroling and concert, Easter concert and spring music contest. Enrollment in the various musical groups was: mixed chorus, 62; girls' glee, 45; boys' glee, 29, and band, 42.

Movies playing at the Osmond Theatre: on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, “ The Alamo,” starring John Wayne, Richard Widmark and Richard Boone, in color; on Monday and Tuesday, “All In A Night's Work," starring Dean Martin and Shirley Maclaine, in color; on Wednesday and Thursday, “Gold of the Seven Saints,” starring Clint Walker and Roger Moore.

50 Years Ago. . .

Complete renovation was in store for the front of the American Legion building. Members voted to accept a bid to have the front completely resurfaced due to the deteriorating state of the mortar between the bricks in some places. The renovation was to include the removal of the windows in the upper section of the front, which would be completely closed in with an exhaust fan installed to provide additional ventilation. In addition to the new front, a large 36-inch American Legion emblem would be a part of the front through the generosity of the Thomsen family. The emblem was being donated by the family in memory of Harry Thomsen, who was very active in Legion activities for many years. Members also voted to donate $300 to the Osmond General Hospital Auxiliary for the purchase of new flags for the "avenue of flags" in the business district. The Hospital Auxiliary initiated this display of flags some five years earlier and the flags were displayed on state and federal holidays.

Trophies were presented at halftime of the Osmond-Wausa football game to winners of the local punt, pass and kick contest that had been held at Plainview. Young men from Osmond completely swept the 11- and 13-yearold divisions by taking the first three places and garnered first and third in the 8-year-old category. Receiving trophies were: 8-year-olds - first, Michael Buchanan, and third, Brian Theisen; 11-year-olds - first, Jeff Gast, second, Michael Moritz, third, Jason Kumm; 13-year-olds - first, Patrick Maxey; second, John Schmit, third, Scott Gutz.

25 Years Ago. . .

Four students made up the kindergarten class of Immanuel Lutheran School, with Dawn Williams as their instructor. They were Ben Johnson, Faith Schultze, Callie Kolterman and Blake Brummels.

Homecoming candidates for 2001 were Joel Kumm, Andrew Ortmeier, Bryce Dennis, Justin Koehler, Nick Schmit, Alexis Rutherford and Kari Ekberg. Chosen as the 2001 king and queen were Andrew Ortmeier and Alexis Rutherford.

10 Years Ago. . .

The Osmond Tiger football team defeated the Randolph Cardinals 4210 in the 2016 homecoming game. Brock Johnson led the Tigers with 123 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He also found teammates Cole Moes and Curtis Kralicek for a touchdown pass each. Tyler Reikofski scored two rushing touchdowns.

The performance will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, visit www.wsc.edu/watch-live.

Repertoire for the recital includes Concertino for Trumpet and Piano by Bernard Fitzgerald; Concerto for Trumpet by George Frideric Handel (transcribed by Willard Musser), a work that was originally written for chamber orchestra; and Tunnel View by Kevin McKee.

Genslinger is an assistant professor of music at Wayne State. In addition to serving as the assistant director of bands, he teaches music education courses and applied trumpet.

Genslinger serves as the principal trumpet for A Touch of Brass, lead trumpet for the Northeast Area Jazz Ensemble, and co-principal trumpet for the Sioux City Municipal Band. He performs regularly with the Sioux City Symphony and performs frequent solo recitals at Wayne State College. He served as principal cornet in the Nebraska Brass Band for the 2023-24 season and has performed with the Ocala Symphony, Carnival Cruise Lines, and as a freelance musician in the southeast United States and Greater Siouxland area.

The concert also features piano accompaniment by Shelly Armstrong, Wayne State's collaborative pianist.

For more information, contact Wayne State's Department of Music at 402-375-7359.

Wayne State College, a leading, public four-year college in Northeast Nebraska, is a proud member of the Nebraska State College System.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has the following reminders for those hunting during the Oct. 1-Nov. 30 season: All harvested turkeys must be reported via Telecheck within 48 hours of harvest. This can be done at gov/hunt/telecheck/ or by calling the phone number on the permit.Reporting via Telecheck is mandatory.

When hunting during the Nov. 14-22 firearm deer season, turkey hunters must wear at least 400 square inches of hunter orange on the head, chest and back.

Each hunter may only have one fall permit, with a bag limit of one turkey of either sex per permit.

Hunters may use either shotgun or archery equipment as methods of take. Hunters should scout hunting locations in advance, especially near areas affected by recent wildfires in western Nebraska. Be mindful of property lines as fences on private property may have burned.

Everyone who purchases a turkey hunting permit is encouraged to complete the email survey that is sent a few weeks following the close of the season.

More than 1.3 million acres of publicly accessible lands are available throughout Nebraska, including over 471,000 acres of private lands enrolled in Game and Parks' Open Fields and Waters Program. The 2026-2027 Public Access Atlas identifies these lands.

Hunters can stay up to date on all turkey regulations by reading the 2026 Turkey Guide. The atlas and guide are available for viewing at OutdoorNebraska. gov/guides-maps/. Permits, which are valid statewide, may be purchased at OutdoorNebraska. gov and at Game and Parks permitting offices.

Many of the wetlands in the basin have dense stands of annual plants, which will provide good food for waterfowl but make the water more difficult for hunters to see. Hunters should do some scouting ahead of the teal season opener.

Some wetland pumping or surface water delivery is planned before the teal opener. Additional areas may be pumped before the regular duck season.

The wetland condition and pumping plans information will be updated throughout the duck season, generally weekly, and the updates will be posted at OutdoorNebraska.gov/hunt/game/waterfowl/#wetlandhabitatconditions. Scroll to “Wetland Habitat Conditions.” The conditions were observed by biologists on the ground Aug. 26.

In addition to providing places to hunt waterfowl, wetlands are pumped when needed to provide habitat for migrating waterfowl and other water birds, and to provide areas for people to observe wildlife.

Visit OutdoorNebraska.gov for more information on waterfowl hunting, to view the 2026-2027 Small Game and Waterfowl Guide, to purchase permits and stamps, or to register for the Harvest Information Program.

Schramm Park State Recreation Area is offering a volunteer opportunity to assist with land management efforts.

From 9-11 a.m. Oct. 20, join Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff on activities such as invasive species removal, seed collection, trail maintenance, brush piling, and tree planting.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants, bring water, and outdoor work/garden gloves. Long sleeves also are recommended. All ages are welcome, but anyone under the age of 18 must have an accompanying adult.

Meet at the park shelter next to Pond A, where an introduction to the project will kick things off. Volunteers must sign a waiver upon arrival. Visit the calendar entry at Calendar.Outdoornebraska. gov to register.

A Nebraska Vehicle Park Entry Permit is required.

Don’t forget a Nebraska Vehicle Park Entry Permit is required at Nebraska state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

The day began with registration at Gilman Park followed by the teams competing in a track of hands-on activities focusing on water quality and other natural resources related issues. The teams were then quizzed regarding those sessions to accumulate points for the competition.

Following the educational sessions, the teams were given one last chance to extend their point totals by participating in the Dripial Pursuit trivia game. Then while the final totals were being calculated, each team was given the opportunity to participate in the Wonderful World of Water special project.

The special project was Water Rockets, which is a program taught through the Jr. Academy of Sciences. Each school was invited to build water rockets and demonstrate their knowledge of mass, velocity and engineering. The rockets were judged on distance and creativity.

Several rockets were launched Wednesday with Allen High School Team 1 coming in first for farthest distance traveled, Creighton High School Team 2 recognized for shortest distance traveled and, Allen High School Team 3, taking the top place for most creative design.

Following the presentation of the special projects, the winners of the 2026 Northeast Nebraska Wonderful World of Water were announced. The winner of Track 1 was Lutheran High Northeast, consisting of: Isaiah Hafer, Hunter Leffers, Sloane Martinez, Braxton Baldwin and Tucker Anderson. The winning team from Track 2 was Emerson-Hubbard High School Team 2 consisting of: Abe Mueller, Ben Bousquet, Lux Mackling, DeLaney Fuchser, Drayden Nielsen and Taven Kent. First place teams were awarded USA Flag Wonderful World of Water T-shirts to commemorate their victories.

Schools participating in this year’s event included: Pierce High School, Osmond High School, Wausa High School, Allen High School, Lutheran High Northeast High School, Emerson- Hubbard High School, Elgin High School and Creighton High School.

The Wonderful World of Water program would not be possible without our many natural resources professionals from across the area who volunteer their time each year to share their expertise; and, work with students who might be interested in a career related to natural resources.

They come from a variety of agencies including: The Natural Resources Conservation Service; UNL Nebraska Extension; Nebraska Game and Parks; Papio-Missouri River NRD; Upper Elkhorn NRD, Lewis & Clark NRD, Lower Niobrara NRD and, Lower Elkhorn NRD. The Wonderful World of Water was sponsored this year by: the Upper Elkhorn NRD; Lower Elkhorn NRD; Lower Niobrara NRD; and, Lewis and Clark NRD.

“Fall colors are funny. They’re so bright and intense and beautiful. It’s like nature is trying to fill you up with color, to saturate you so you can stock-

pile it before winter turns everything muted and dreary." – Siobhan Vivian.

The Pirates will take on Battle Creek this Friday, Sept. 25, at Plainview at 7 p.m.

Individual Passing

Kohen Lingenfelter — 11 of 17 for 173 yards Rushing

K. Lingenfelter — 9 carries for 58 yards Z. Frahm — 3 carries for -1 yards B. Kment — 2 carries for 16 yard C. Kromarek — 6 carries for 42 yards Receiving

A. Stewart — 1 for 40 yards W. Schroth — 3 for 58 yards Z. Frahm — 1 for 6 yards J. Ward — 1 for 7 yards B. Kment — 4 for 58 yards C. Kromarek — 1 for 4 yards Tackles Solo Asst

A. Stewart 8 7 K. Lingenfelter 4 3 W. Schroth 0 3 C. Vinson 2 4 K. Gardner 5 4 Z. Frahm 4 4 J. Ward 2 0 B. Kment 3 0 B. Pittet 1 0 C. Kromarek 7 4 J. Frahm 0 5 A. Hamilton 0 2 E. Steinkraus 1 0 B. Foster 2 0

When I first heard the word "gentrified" many years ago, I had no idea what the word meant. The easiest explanation is: an urban area – either directly in a city or the surrounding neighborhoods - that is run down and is in a continual decline. The buildings and/or houses are purchased and renovated for a more affluent, more lucrative occupant. It is a common practice and has been for years, I just never really thought about it before. Local governments encourage the gentrification because it increases the tax revenues.

Warren was a good friend in high school. He played quarterback. A bookworm, he was quiet and unassuming, handsome with impeccable manners, well-liked by everyone, a little too sheltered in my opinion. He's retired now after a very successful career as a surgeon. He never accepted my invitations to go out and get rowdy; a field party or four-wheeling or cruising the Country Club Plaza to meet girls…until the day he asked to go.

Warren's father was an attorney. He did pro-bono work in the relocation and reimbursements to families in the areas of "urban renewal" as it was called who might otherwise be taken advantage of. The work that Warren's father did piqued his interest and he asked me to show him some of the blighted locations. My previous curiosities and adventures into the dark corners of the city after hours made me the perfect tour guide. A singer by the name of Wilbert Harrison had a hit in 1959 called "Goin' to Kansas City." In the lyrics, he says he'll "Stand on the corner, Twelfth Street and Vine, they got some crazy little women there and I'm gonna have some fun." This is where Warren – the studious, clean-cut, All-American kid - and I started our evening.

After we crossed the Broadway Bridge we arrived at the Folgers Coffee bean roasting plant on 10th Street. My father and I were frequent customers at the spice company across from there, buying spices for curing meat, making sausage and other varieties of sauces for the restaurant. The security guards at Folgers loved us because we frequently passed out smoked bratwurst links while downtown on business. The neon lights above the dive bars were in various conditions of operation; some didn't work and some blinked sporadically, almost offensively, creating a headache if you looked too long. The unlit stoops of several buildings were hangouts for the men with their bottles wrapped in brown paper bags; occasionally trying to be intimidating, but they were unable to walk let alone cause any danger. Warren was aghast. "Don't worry," I said, "they're harmless. But if anyone does start to give us any trouble, just pretend you're an Italian. Nobody wants to mess with an Italian." He looked at me in disbelief.

"Where are we going?" he asked. I told him that the corner of 16th is where the real action is, but that we'll have plenty to see along the way. On each side of Broadway were brown brick buildings, 10 to 15 stories high, all dark, some boarded up and some with broken windows, doors slightly ajar for when the night people needed to sneak in and flop. "And they just go in and sleep there?" "They're all abandoned buildings Warren, no one cares," I told him. "It'll all be different once the work starts." I explained to him that the plan from 10th Street to 22nd Street was going to loft apartments, restaurants, and specialty retail stores for folks coming across the river from the north. "And this is what my Dad is working on, helping these people?" "I can't say exactly who," I said, "but this is where it's going to start." The foot traffic was increasing as were the hustlers and dealers and ladies with short skirts and stiletto heels. Warren became increasingly nervous as this world was new to him. Three ladies approach from a side alley. "Hello boys," one of them sweetly and seductively says, "Are you buyin' or sellin'?" "We're doing research for our social studies class," I respond. "Would you care to take a survey?" After a few choice words that Warren had probably never heard were uttered, they continued elsewhere to ply their trade. I asked if he wanted to continue. He declined the offer. I assisted in the surgeon's education.

These are just some of the many items that will be up for bid when the Nebraska State Treasurer's Office conducts its Oct. 6–13 online auction of abandoned safe deposit box contents that have been turned over to the state.

The auction will be conducted on eBay, beginning at 8 a.m. CT Tuesday, Oct. 6. Bids will be accepted for seven days, with the auction concluding just before 8 a.m. CT Tuesday, Oct. 13.

The lineup of auction items will be available for online viewing and bidding when the auction goes live Oct. 6 at https://www.ebay.com/usr/ nebraska.unclaimedproperty.

Bidders will also be able to access the auction site from the Treasurer's website at treasurer.nebraska.gov.

Under Nebraska law, the State Treasurer's Office holds unclaimed property, including safe deposit box contents that have been abandoned or whose owners have died and whose heirs have not come forward. Safe deposit box contents are the only physical property received by Nebraska's Unclaimed Property Division.

"Multiple efforts have been made over several years to locate the original owners of these items, but those efforts have been unsuccessful," Spellerberg said. "The auction gives these items a new home while preserving the proceeds for their rightful owners. If an owner or heir comes forward years from now, the money from the sale will be waiting." The contents up for auction were received by the Treasurer's Office more than a decade ago. Spellerberg said proceeds from the sale of each item will be recorded in the original owner's name and held in that name until claimed by the rightful owners.

In the coming days, a sample of the auction items will be displayed on the State Treasurer's official social media channels on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. All items for the auction have been inspected and appraised by Tom Bassett of Lincoln, a longtime independent appraiser.

Among the items up for bid are the following: White gold diamond ring, emerald-cut stone, two carats, 16 side stones; Mesh purse, marked 14-karat gold, 4.5 oz weight; 1961 Topps #2 Roger Maris baseball card, good condition; 1929 $100 bill U.S. currency, Federal Reserve of Minneapolis; 1934 $500 Federal Reserve note, fair condition; 1917 ladies' watch, 14-karat gold band; JFK half-dollars, 90% silver; Morgan silver dollars; Sterling silver set of silverware, 49 pieces; 1995 Sports Illustrated, Huskers National Champions special edition; $1 "Barr Bill"; $1 and $5 silver certificates; 1990 silver eagle, uncirculated; 1986 Denver-minted dime with mint error, double struck; 1924 Peace dollar.

Employees of the State Treasurer's Office and their immediate families are not eligible to bid.

Since Nebraska's unclaimed property law took effect in the late 1960s, the State of Nebraska has returned more than $317 million to rightful owners. One in five Nebraskans has unclaimed property, with money waiting to be claimed in all 93 Nebraska counties.

Searching NebraskaLostCash. nebraska.gov is free, secure, and takes only a few minutes. Search your name, your family members' names, or the name of your business or organization. If there's a match, you can begin the claim process online.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission hosts the contest, which encourages residents to submit original artwork featuring Nebraska native reptiles from Oct. 1-31, 2026. Participants can go to the calendar entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska. gov to upload their entries as scanned images or photos.

The participation categories are kindergarten-second grades, thirdfifth grades, sixth-eighth grades, ninth-12th grades, and adults ages 18 and older.

All participants will receive reptilethemed “swag” for their submissions.

Artists can find more information and inspiration on Game and Parks’ Reptiles and Amphibians page at OutdoorNebraska. gov. Search “Reptiles and Amphibians.”

Winners will be announced during the first week of November on the Game and Parks Facebook page.

There will be other ways to celebrate Reptile Month in October. Here are some examples: Gere Library to host Family Fun Night

Join Lincoln City Libraries and Nebraska Game and Parks for a Family Fun Night geared towards reptile awareness.

Stop by the Gere Library at 2400 S. 56th St. between 5:30 and 7 p.m. Oct. 6 to meet some live snakes, turtles and lizards. Learn about Nebraska’s native reptile species, enjoy crafts, opportunities to read to a reptile, and find fun educational giveaways.

Reptile Art Day is Oct. 19

Nebraska Game and Parks and Lincoln City Libraries will host an afternoon of reptile art on Oct. 19.

Join educators at Gere Branch Library at 2400 S. 56th St. from 1:30-3 p.m. to draw, paint or sculpt an entry for the 2026 Reptile Art Contest.

Live reptiles will be on hand for inspiration, and a variety of art supplies will be provided. Participants will be able to digitally submit their entries with help from staff and take home their finished project.

Send questions to monica.macoubrie@ nebraska.gov.

Reptiles of Nebraska Family Event

It will be an evening dedicated to reptiles when Nebraska Game and Parks and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Natural Resources host a family-friendly reptile fun night Oct. 22.

Come to Hardin Hall at 3310 Holdrege St. from 4:30-7 p.m. for this free event for all ages. Dennis Ferraro, UNL’s herpetologist, will have an exhibit of snakes, lizards and turtles of Nebraska.

There will be live animals, touch stations, coloring stations, turtle activities, snake activities, and many activity booths dedicated to educating Nebraskans on the importance of native reptiles.

Send questions to monica.macoubrie@ nebraska.gov.

Hay at $200 per ton may make feeding a traditional high-roughage growing ration an expensive way to put weight on calves. For cattle producers set up to feed calves in a bunk, limit feeding a higher-energy diet may be worth considering this fall and winter.

The idea behind limit feeding is fairly simple. Instead of allowing calves free access to a bulky, high-roughage ration, a smaller amount of a more energy-dense diet is fed to meet nutrient needs and maintain desired gains.

Current feed prices help show why this approach may work. Hay priced at $200 per ton and testing 52 percent total digestible nutrients (TDN) comes out to about 22 cents per pound of TDN. Corn at $4.35 per bushel is closer to 10 cents per pound of TDN, while wet distillers grains priced at $75 per ton comes in around 11 cents.

When energy from grain and co-products is cheaper than energy from hay, reducing forage use and feeding a smaller amount of a higher-energy ration may lower feed costs.

Kansas State University research has looked at this approach with growing calves. In one study, calves were limit fed a high-energy diet at about 2.2 percent of body weight compared with calves full fed a higher-roughage diet at about 2.8 percent of body weight over a 90-day backgrounding period.

Limit-fed calves gained about 2.5 pounds per day compared with 2.9 pounds for calves on the full-fed ration. While gains were somewhat lower, limit-fed calves were more feed efficient. The backgrounding system also had little effect on finishing performance or carcass characteristics later on.

There can be some management advantages as well. Feeding less roughage means less feed to mix and deliver and potentially less feed waste around the bunk. Limit feeding can also improve use of bunk space and provide another opportunity to monitor calf health. With a consistent feeding schedule, healthy calves should be ready to come to the bunk at feeding time, making animals that hang back easier to identify.

Another potential advantage is reduced manure production. Kansas State research has shown manure output may be reduced by 40 to 45 percent when stocker cattle are limit fed, which can reduce the amount of material that needs to be handled and make pen maintenance easier.

That efficiency does come with additional management requirements. Newly arrived calves should have access to long-stem hay before transitioning onto the limit-fed diet. One approach is to begin the limit-fed ration at around 0.75 percent of body weight on a dry matter basis and gradually work calves up to around 2.2 percent of body weight over about two weeks.

Consistency is important. Calves should be fed at about the same time each day, and adequate bunk space is needed so all calves have an opportunity to eat. Providing at least 15 inches of bunk space per head can help reduce competition. As calves grow, the amount of feed delivered also needs to be adjusted so intake and target gains stay on track.

Limit feeding won't fit every operation. Producers need adequate bunk space, equipment to accurately mix and deliver the ration, and the ability to maintain a consistent feeding schedule. The ration also needs to be properly balanced for protein, minerals and other nutrient requirements.

Still, when forage is expensive relative to grain and co-products, the economics can change quickly. Before committing expensive hay to a growing ration, it may be worth comparing feeds on a cost-per-pound-of-energy basis and seeing whether a limit-fed program fits the operation.

Each room holds a story — some historical, some mysterious — as the tour blends real Nebraska history with just enough spooky folklore to give you goosebumps. Hear whispers of the past, creaking floorboards, and unexplained chills as you explore antique-filled parlors, shadowy staircases, and hidden passageways once walked by the Morton family.

Tours are at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 16 and Oct. 23, and at 6:30 and 8:30 on Oct. 30 and Oct. 31. The tour is appropriate for teenagers and adults.

Visit the calendar entry at Calendar.Outdoornebraska.gov to purchase tickets.

Don’t forget a Nebraska Vehicle Park Entry Permit is required at Nebraska state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Samples taken earlier this week at the lakes on alert measure above the threshold of eight parts per billion (ppb) of total microcystin, which is a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae.

This week’s sampling results represent the end of the HAB sampling season for the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) and its partners.

HABs may persist into the fall. Pay attention to health alert signs and avoid water that has a thick scum with a neon green, pea green, blue-green, or reddish-brown color with a bad odor. For more information about what to look for, potential health effects from HABs, and steps to avoid exposure, please refer to DWEE’s HAB Fact Sheet.

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert.

Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly by avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water.

Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities.

From May 18, 2026, through Sept. 14, 2026, DWEE and its partners conducted HAB sampling at 57 public lakes with swimming beaches and high public activity. To view the weekly results for microcystin and bacteria for the lakes sampled and to access the interactive Beach Watch map, visit DWEE’s Beach Watch page.

DWEE’s sampling partners include the Central District Health Department, Nebraska Public Power District, Upper Republican Natural Resources District (NRD), Lower Republican NRD, South Platte NRD, Middle Niobrara NRD, Lower Loup NRD, Nemaha NRD, Lower Elkhorn NRD, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

Submissions should be made at Magazine.OutdoorNebraska.gov. To be eligible for the contest, photos should be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time Oct. 31.

Photographers of all ages and skill levels are invited to submit photos in four categories: Macro — Close-up photographs of native wildflowers, foliage, fruiting bodies, insects and other small creatures, or other details of the natural world that are not often seen up close.

Flora/fauna — Photographs of na- tive plants, trees, wildflowers, mam -

mals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and other wildlife.

Landscape — Photographs in which scenery, natural features or landmarks are prominent. Capture Nebraska’s diverse landscapes, including prairies, forests, rivers, lakes, wetlands, rock formations and the skies above them.

Hunting and fishing - Photographs that capture hunting and fishing in Nebraska, including wildlife, anglers, hunters, hunting dogs, gear, and other aspects of these outdoor pursuits.

All photos must be taken in Nebraska.

Submissions will be judged by Nebraskaland staff, and winning photos will be published in the January/ February 2027 issue of Nebraskaland Magazine. First-, second-, and thirdplace prizes will be awarded in all categories, and a Best in Show prize also will be awarded.

Find the complete contest rules at Magazine.OutdoorNebraska.gov/ about/photo-contest.

With miles of winding rivers, wideopen vistas and wildlife from border to border, Nebraska is a photographer’s paradise.

Each year, Nebraskaland Magazine celebrates the state’s beauty and recognizes the outstanding work of photographers across Nebraska during this annual photo contest.

Learn more about the magazine at Magazine.OutdoorNebraska.gov.

“This popular program emphasizes our urban and community waters statewide,” said Daryl Bauer, Game and Parks' fisheries outreach program manager. “We encourage anglers to get out and enjoy the weather and harvest a few trout.”

Those just getting into fishing, are encouraged to read Game and Parks’ Going Fishing Guide, available at OutdoorNebraska.gov. There, they also can find additional information on fishing or buy a fishing permit.

The following is a schedule for trout set to be stocked, including quantities. Dates can change because of weather or unforeseen circumstances: Week of Sept. 21

East Branch Verdigre Creek, Royal, 200 Week of Sept. 28

East Branch Verdigre Creek, Royal, 200 Ainsworth City Park Pond, Ainsworth, 250 Keller Park State Recreation Area Pond No. 4, Long Pine, 200 Keller Park SRA Pond No. 5, Long Pine, 250 Chadron State Park Pond, Chadron, 200 Chadron Wildlife Management Area Pond, Chadron, 50 Gilbert-Baker WMA Pond, Harrison, 450 Cherry Creek Diversion Pond, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 200 Grable Pond South, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 500 Grable Pond Middle, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 450 Week of Oct. 5

East Branch Verdigre Creek, Royal, 200 Fremont Lakes SRA No. 18, Fremont, 2,000 Wayne City Park Pond, Wayne, 900 Crystal Cove, South Sioux City, 3,000 Week of Oct. 12

East Branch Verdigre Creek, Royal, 200 Holmes Lake, Lincoln, 2,500 Bowling Lake, Lincoln, 400 Kramer Lake (American Heroes Park), Bellevue, 2,000 Fontanelle Park Pond, Omaha, 400 Benson Park Pond, Omaha, 700 Ta-Ha-Zouka Park Lake, Norfolk, 1,500 Pawnee Park West, Columbus, 1,000 Towl Lake, Omaha, 200 Middle Ice House Pond, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 150 Lower Ice House Pond, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 600 Laing Lake, Alliance, 1,000 Grable Pond North, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 500 Bridgeport City Pond, Bridgeport, 250 CenturyLink Lake, Eugene T. Mahoney SP, Ashland, 1,200 Week of Oct. 19

East Branch Verdigre Creek, Royal, 200 Grove Lake, Royal, 1,000 Gracie Creek Pond, Burwell, 1,000 Auburn Fairgrounds Lake, Auburn, 470 Humboldt City Park Lake, Humboldt, 200 Pawnee City Lake, Pawnee City, 200 Stanton Lake, Falls City, 200 Oxford City Lake, Oxford, 300 Auble Pond, Ord, 1,200 Heartwell Park, Hastings, 600 Suck’s Lake, Grand Island, 500 Fort Kearny SRA No. 6, Kearney, 1,060 Windmill SRA No. 2, Gibbon, 1,000 Elm Creek, Red Cloud, 500 Bethphage Pond, Axtell, 200 Birdwood Lake, North Platte, 1,500 Chappell Interstate Pond, Chappell, 2,250 Ducks Unlimited Sand Pit, Oshkosh, 200 Scottsbluff Zoo Pond, Scottsbluff, 700 Rock Creek Lake, Parks, 2,500 Humphrey Pond, Ogallala, 480 Week of Oct. 26 East Branch Verdigre Creek, Royal, 200 Weeping Water No. 1, Weeping Water, 750 Louisville SRA No. 1A, Louisville, 500 Steinhart Park East Pond, Nebraska City, 400 Bessey Pond, Halsey, 250 Geneva City Pond, Geneva, 200 Sutton Clark Pond, Sutton, 200 Lake Halleck, Papillion, 1,200 Gretna Crossing, Gretna, 200 David City West, David City, 450 Melham Park Lake, Broken Bow, 700 Ansley City Lake, Ansley, 800 Lake Helen, Gothenburg, 1,600 Plum Creek Park Lake, Lexington, 660 Holdrege City Lake, Holdrege, 1,300 North Morrill Pond, Morrill, 1,500 Middle Morrill Pond, Morrill, 200 South Morrill Pond, Morrill, 200

Chairpersons noted that questions or orders for delivery should be directed to Nancy Sech at (402) 649-2369.

More information can be found in an ad on Page 3 of this issue.