Security Bank as a whole - which includes its five branches in Osmond, Laurel, Allen, Hartington and Coleridge — decided that it would decorate for the 250th anniversary of the United States. It was up to each branch to do whatever it wanted to do, so Alison Dennis, administrative officer at the Os mond branch, came up with the idea of the patriotic tree, uniforms and other military items that are on display in the bank in Osmond.

The Marine Corps uniform is her son, Craig’s, Class A uniform; the Army uniform is her husband, Jerry’s, dad LaVerne’s uniform from World War II, and the Nebraska Army National Guard BDU (Battle Dress Uniform) and the helmet in the trunk is Jerry’s.

The patriotic display, which was put up in June, will be up until at least after Labor Day, but Alison wasn’t sure exactly how long after that, possibly until Veterans Day.

“We decided we wanted to do something a little ‘extra’ than we normally do, since it’s the country’s 250th,” Alison said.

The service is one that has been provided here in the past, and provides cleaning of not just feather pillows, but foam, down, fiber fill and others.

The pillows will be renovated and returned the same day. No appointments are needed.

In addition to cleaning pillows, the service can take feather beds and make them into pillows, and also has new pillows available on site.

PILLOW SERVICE TO BE IN OSMOND ON FRIDAY Why Clean Pillows?

Vanease Kraft of Kraft Pillow Service explains why pillows should be cleaned.

“You go to the dentist on a regular basis. You get your vehicle serviced on a regular basis. You wash your sheets on a regular basis. Why not your pillow?” she said. “On average, people spend over 2,500 hours a year on their pillow. That’s a lot of night sweats, fevers, common colds, allergies and dust exposed to your pillow!”

The following is the process for cleaning pillows: First, the cover of the old pillow (also known as pillow ticking) is cut open and the contents are emptied into a chamber. Inside this chamber is where the sterilization process takes place.

The contents of the pillow are exposed to an ozone-emitting, ultraviolet light, which kills any allergy-causing bacteria, sterilizes and deodorizes the filling. Dust is also sifted out at this time. When individuals simply wash their pillow, the dust still stays inside the ticking.

Once the cycle is completed, a timer will engage the blower and all of the sanitized contents are blown into a new cover (ticking). Basically, the machine takes an old pillow and makes it new again at a fraction of the cost of a new pillow.

For more information about the pillow cleaning day, see the ad on Page 3 of last week’s issue, or the ad in this week’s Northeast Nebraska Rocket.

Board members include Marv Kumm, Patti Ketelsen, Regina Lorenz, Barb Johnson, Brian Guenther and Mark McCabe.

Music in the Park, featuring Tanner Sovereign, was an event to raise funds for playground improvements. Tanner is a grandson of Dorothy Bauermeister of Osmond.

The fundraiser brought in $2,791, which included several larger donations of $100-200, for which the board is extremely grateful.

The board is working with the Osmond city council to procure funds for two new swing sets and safety surfacing, replacing the old swing sets at Poolside Park.

The new swing sets will include an ADA swing and new tot and bucket swings. The new surfacing will eliminate the mud holes that have been prevalent under the swings in the past.

At last week’s meeting, Judith Stanton of Pierce County Economic Development was on hand to speak with the group about available grants for the project. The main one she spoke about was the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Land and PARK BOARD WORKING ON PLAYGROUND FUND-RAISING Water Conservation Fund grant. This is a matching grant, so the city would have to raise a certain amount of the funds itself.

Although there are other grants available, Stanton said the Land and Waters grant is the one she would like to focus on right now.

The board has already received several grants which will go toward the playground equipment, including the Pierce County Visitors Bureau, Northeast Power, Black Hills Energy and LENRD grants.

The park board will be working on other fund-raisers in the future, as well as contacting businesses for donations.

In addition to the fund-raiser, the board heard from city councilman Dennis Haselhorst that the floor in the bathroom will be redone and several older trees will be removed, both by September.

During the meeting, the board approved entering into a cooperative sports agreement with Plainview Public School to include high school volleyball, cross country, boys’ golf and track, beginning in the 2027-28 school year, as well as all future sports.

In addition, the board approved transfers to the depreciation, activity and nutrition funds for approved expenditures in the amounts of $100,000, $60,000 and $40,000, respectively. This is something that is routinely done when needed.

One of the discussion items was a possible cooperative purchase of an activity bus. Superintendent Skip Bremer shared information about the vehicle, which will be discussed further at the next meeting. If purchased, the cost would be shared between the Osmond and Plainview schools.

Athletic Director Report

Athletic Director Brian Guenther gave a brief report, which included information about the Lewis and Clark Conference schedules and Lewis and Clark Conference passes.

He also reported that the district had received eight Team Academic Excellence Awards, which were displayed in the room.

K-6 Principal Report

Principal Paige Parsons expressed her gratitude to the elementary staff for collaborating during the summer to ensure a smooth transition back to school. This included sessions fur BIST (Behavior Intervention Support Team), MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) leadership teams and CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) refresher training.

Ms. Parsons gave an update on new staff members, which includes paraeducators Morgan Schmit, Tracy Carlson and Blake Berner; Grace Nordhues, who will be the fifth grade teacher, and Jean Granquist, who will serve as full-year substitute for Special Education.

Parsons spoke about other trainings which are required for teachers and other staff, some of which were competed through the BIST training, and some of which will be done throughout the school year. She referenced some no-school days for students in K-6 when much of the trainings will take place.

Upcoming events include a Special Education meeting at ESU 8 on Aug. 26 and a continuous school improvement workshop at ESU 8 on Sept. 15.

7-12 Principal Report

Principal Kurt Polt reported that teacher in-service days were being held Aug. 10-12 and the first day of school for students is Thursday, Aug. 13. The elementary open house was scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 11, as were chromebook checkouts and a meeting for seventh grade students and new students in grades 7-12.

Mr. Polt reported that work on the 16 senior banners has begun, and training for the new school information system was to be held Tuesday, Aug. 11.

Morning homerooms will begin on Monday, Aug. 17, and bus evacuation and other drills will take place that day as well.

Jamboree volleyball games are scheduled at Boyd County on Aug. 24 at 5:30 p.m., with a season opener dual at Wynot on Aug. 27 at 5 p.m. The first football game is at Doniphan on Aug. 28 at 7 p.m., and the first cross country meet is Aug. 27 at Hartington at 9 a.m.

The principal reported that the OHS band will march at the Nebraska State Fair on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 1 p.m. There will be no school on Monday, Sept. 7, for Labor Day.

Polt reported that the next board meeting, on Sept. 14, will be the first day of Spirit Week for Homecoming, and on Sept. 16, the Osmond Tiger Bank Branch will open for deposits. The junior class auction has been scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 8, after the Osmond-Plainview volleyball game.

The principal reported on the dual credit list, and said there are 48 classes being taken. He also shared the current enrollment list.

The principal extended his thanks to the custodians, saying they did a ton of work this summer, and he got a lot of compliments from people at the tours during alumni weekend.

Superintendent Report

Superintendent Bremer briefly discussed the board policies up for SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES SPORTS AGREEMENT review in August. These included Policy 3032, Fees for School District Records; 3034, Disbursements; 3035, Chain of Command; 3036, Purchasing (Credit) Card Program; 3037, Petty Cash; 3039, Threat Assessment and Response, and 3040, School Safety and Security. No changes had been suggested for any of these policies.

Mr. Bremer reminded board members of the NASB (Nebraska Association of School Boards) meeting in South Sioux City on Wednesday, Aug. 26. He asked board members to let him know if they can’t make it. Those receiving awards this year are Justin Koehler, Tiffany Rice and Michelle Reikofski.

The superintendent reported that the supplier for the new keys/locks is slowing progress (but there are, of course, locks on the doors); lighting on the stage is concluded, but curtain installation is waiting for a couple of items; the tall kitchen dishwasher is installed, and kitchen stove grant work continues. Bremer also reported that FFA advisor Jessica Evans told him the organization received a grant for CTE (Career and Technical Education).

Bremer noted that nothing has changed regarding the district budget since the board’s recent workshop, and he has received the information about the joint public meeting which will be Sept. 17 at Plainview Public Library. The district’s budget will be set at the September board meeting, and there will be a public hearing to receive comments.

Mr. Bremer reported that JMC would be in Osmond on Tuesday for staff to receive training on the new students information system. He also reported that the TeamMates mentors and mentees would meet Tuesday, and added that the group is always looking for mentors.

During board comments, board member Michelle Reikofski reported on a recent NASB meeting she attended.

for the strife those aforementioned giants inflicted. Healthy gums, strong enamel and well embedded roots have allowed me to still retain a fair number of the originals.

The decision to play goalie during our winter hockey games was not a wise one. I never lost any ivory from taking a slap shot puck to the mouth, only a little blood. The impacts only loosened a few; assurances from the professionals in white turtleneck smocks were that eventually they would reattach themselves if no further harm was inflicted.

Playing catcher and shortstop in Little League was much the same. The coach would tell us to stay in front of the ball, and if you couldn’t field it cleanly, at least use your body to knock it down; his instructions on which parts of the body to use were vague.

In high school during weight training for football, we received T-shirts after reaching certain levels on the bench press. I was so proud of my “200 Pound Club” shirt, I rarely took it off. The next achievement would be the “220,” that’s the one the big fellas had and I wanted it desperately. The combination of being over confident, gravity and sweaty palms did enough damage to my upper right canine that it had to be replaced with a fake. Anticipating sympathy and solace from the pompom squad was also a lofty and fruitless expectation.

ABC Monday Night Football. Arrowhead. 1980. Chiefs vs. Raiders. Epic. We won. The joy was short lived.

A fight was brewing in parking area G6; rival factions from both opponents were exchanging vulgarities, pushing and shoving; threats were being hurled back and forth. It was only a matter of time before it exploded.

Somebody needed to step in between the two mobs and calm the situation. I figured that I would be best suited to de-escalate the tension. I was mistaken. A tire iron or a pipe or something – I remember it tasting metallic, caught me across the left jaw. The doctor said I was lucky, only a hairline fracture of the cheekbone and a missing molar.

With age comes wisdom, at least for some, and I think I’ve learned most of the really important lessons. Spontaneous exuberance still pulses within, but it doesn’t cost me too much pain or coin anymore.

The dentist and his fine staff of technicians always chuckle when I sit in the chair now as an adult; they ask if there are any problems. I’ll mention some tenderness around number 29 or 30 and the crown on number 4 seems a bit loose – and oh by the way, the bridge holding 12 and 13 together has a small abrasive feel on my tongue. They take wonderful care of me and suggested an electric toothbrush and a different brand of cleanser, which Margaret promptly purchased.

It takes a little practice; the supersonic speed of the vibrating rotating brush and the dab of gel are incompatible. My instructor spouse observes, educating me on the new procedure.

“Insert the wand before you turn it on,” she says. It goes against the grain of everything I’ve ever done or attempted not to do, but I’m trying.

“Dang it, where the hell did my Sensodyne go?” I ask. She stands matter-of-factly and points at the mirror, splattered with white dots; it looks like the Milky Way, my reflection mingled amongst the stars and constellations, astrologically mesmerizing.

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.

Every Thursday — Osmond Food Pantry open at United Methodist Church, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Calendar brought to you by

The Osmond Republican

From 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the Snyderville Quarry near Weeping Water, participants will discover the fossils that tell the story of prehistoric Nebraska, from creatures that lived in ancient seas to mammals that roamed grasslands millions of years ago.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age. Each must register, which is required, individually. See the calendar entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for a registration link.

“Over the past four decades, Deb has supported farmers and ranchers across a wide variety of FSAprograms and has watched multiple generations walk through our doors,” Schulz said. “Her knowledge, commitment, and steady presence have made a lasting impact on the agricultural community and on our office. Forty years of ser vice is a remarkable achievement. We are proud to work alongside Deb and grateful for all she has contributed. Congratulations, Deb, and thank you for your exceptional dedication!”

The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself. — Benjamin Franklin

Monday

Breakfast: Waffles.

Lunch: Breaded chicken patty on a bun, scalloped potatoes, pineapple.

Tuesday

Breakfast: Oatmeal with toppings.

Lunch: Soft shell tacos, refried beans, fresh fruit, brownie.

Wednesday

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs on a croissant.

Lunch: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, dinner roll, Mandarin oranges.

Thursday

Breakfast: Apple strudel.

Lunch: Barbecued chicken flat bread pizza, carrots and celery with ranch, “Sidekick.”

Friday

Breakfast: Cereal and toast.

Lunch: Hamburger on a bun, sweet potato tots, pears.

The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

On Aug. 13, this virtual program explores what soil is made of, the organisms that call it home, and how it supports plants, wildlife and people. Learn about different soil types, how soil forms and why healthy soil is essential for sustaining landscapes.

In this series, on select Thursdays at 3 p.m. Central time, Game and Parks educators discuss some of the science behind common things regarding nature and animals.

The hourlong webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar entries at Calendar. OutdoorNebraska.gov for registration links.

Right now, LifeServe has just a 1-2 day supply of type O-negative, O-positive, and A-negative blood. Other blood types are facing a 2-3 day supply. Without increased donations, this level of supply can lead to situations where hospitals may not have enough blood on hand to treat all patients who need it.

“What we are seeing right now is far beyond the typical seasonal summer dip in blood donations,” said Stacy Sime, LifeServe Blood Center President and CEO. “Our donations are not currently keeping up with the demand for blood from hospitals. Unless this trend reverses, hospitals will need to start making difficult decisions to delay or cancel treatments and surgeries."

The summer months are traditionally a slower time for blood donations, as busier summer schedules reduce donors’ appointments, and high schools and colleges – the source of steady donations – are on summer break. But this summer’s challenges go beyond that. In July, LifeServe is collecting about 2,500 units of blood behind expected levels, causing significant strain on supply.

“This is not just a situation where we need our most loyal donors to step up and donate again," Sime said. "We need new, first-time donors and those who haven’t donated with us in years to come make an impact on their communities and save lives.”

Blood centers throughout the country are facing similar strains to the blood supply. On Monday evening, the U.S. Surgeon General warned that blood donations are needed in order to maintain an adequate blood supply across America.

Blood cannot be manufactured and has a short shelf life. Thus, the blood supply needs to be continuously replenished. On average, someone needs blood every two seconds.

And just one donation can save or impact up to three local lives. LifeServe supplies blood to more than 175 local hospitals, so donating with LifeServe ensures your donation impacts the lives of people right in your community.

LifeServe Blood Center is asking potential blood donors to make an appointment to give blood at one of our donor centers or a mobile blood drive near them in the next week.

Go to lifeservebloodcenter.org or call 800.287.4903 to schedule an appointment. Information on eligibility can also be found on the site.

Area blood drives include the following: Aug. 18 — Randolph city auditorium, 119 N. Main St., 12:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 20 — Hartington VFW, 206 E. Main St., 12:30 p.m.-6 p.m.

Aug. 25 - Wausa fire hall, 405 E. Broadway, 3 p.m.-6 p.m.

Aug. 26 — Coleridge community center, 111 S. Main St., 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts' staff will be on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them get in touch with the correct people.

All times below are local. For more information about Ricketts’ constituent services, please visit https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/services.

Wednesday, Aug. 12 — Sherman County, Sherman County Courthouse, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 630 O Street, Loup City, NE 68853 Thursday, Aug. 13 — Cass County, Cass County Courthouse, 11 a.m.-Noon, 346 Main Street, Plattsmouth, NE 68048 Monday, Aug. 17 — Dundy County, Dundy County Courthouse, 11 a.m.Noon, 112 West 7th Street, Benkelman, NE 69021 Tuesday, Aug. 25 - Garfield County, Garfield County Courthouse, 11 a.m.-Noon, 250 South 8th Street, Burwell, NE 68823

With wheat at $1.15 and corn at 27 cents in Osmond, we see no reason why that little subscription account should not be settled.

The village schools opened on Monday in all departments, the board thinking there was no further danger of the spread of diphtheria. The attendance is fairly good now.

Chas. Calundan was awarded the contract for building the sidewalks in the village, he being the only bidder and will receive 28 cents per foot for a four-foot walk. He will begin work in a few days.

Anna Nelson was a pleasant caller this week. She has about recovered from the shot she received almost a year ago.

P. J. Zawadke, working for Fred Bruegeman, had a runaway on Monday. His team, a four-horse one, was hitched to a drag and made things lively for a time. Mr. Z. was slightly scratched as was one horse.

100 Years Ago. . .

Between after closing on Sunday evening and Monday morning, the Rodgers drug store was robbed of around $100, mostly in cash. The burglar or burglars gained entrance through the back door. The money was in several different places in the store, but the thieves made a clean sweep. The same night, a store in Hadar was robbed.

Bids were awarded for paving and guttering that portion of State Street in Improvement District No. 1. There were two bidders, the Norfolk Bridge and Construction Company, and Mr.

C. J. Christensen of Meadow Grove, father-in-law of Dr. Rodgers. The bid of C. J. Christensen being the lower, he was awarded the contract, and started work immediately.

H. F. Gilday made the following announcement: Have moved my barber shop to my home one block east of Mrs. Mayers, and the first house west of the Catholic church.

Children up to 13 years, hair cut, 25¢. Bobbing of all kinds, ladies my specialty. Everybody welcome.

Hours, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Wednesdays and Saturdays until 12 p.m.

Bert Davis was seriously hurt in a runaway one afternoon. He was hauling with his team and one of the planks on the wagon poked one of the horses and they started to run, going across the rails on the track, and throwing Bert out of the wagon.

He was badly bruised on the back and head, and although able to be around, he was laid up for several weeks. It was a narrow escape and Bert’s many friends were glad that he escaped with his life.

75 Years Ago. . .

Eight Osmond high school students were attending music camp at Wayne State Teachers College. They were Sharon and Dixie Reed, Donna and Nylotis Overhue, Colleen Becker, Barbara Wilson, Carol Schneckloth and Danny Beckwith.

Miss Dorothy Wegner, who had been attending the Electronic Radio Television Institute in Omaha that summer, came home for a day on her way to Chicago where she had a position. She was a communication operator with the United Air Lines.

Dorothy taught school for two years after graduating with the Class of 1949.

After all conventional efforts failed to pull a huge diesel transport back on a Highway 20 detour north of Belden, a crawler tractor of Theisen Bros., Osmond road contractors, was called into use to get the big vehicle back on the highway. Wreckers had failed to budget the truck from its resting position which was reported to block traffic. The stalled truck had a load of 16 tons of peaches.

The three-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. George Mueller of Osmond, and 45-year-old Ray Shacklett, a Plainview section worker, died in a highway accident 3½ miles west of Osmond. The Shacklett car, a 1949 Plymouth sedan, swept the steel north rail of a highway bridge completely from the bridge. Close behind the ill-fated car drove the father of the youth who was to die in the crash.

The highway was unobstructed at the time of the accident. One observer estimated the speed of the Shacklett car at near 60 miles per hour.

Sister M. Ambrose, superintendent of St. Joseph Hospital here, left to the regret of her staff and the hundreds of friends she had made throughout the community. According to the rules of her order she could not stay in Osmond any longer. Sister Ambrose had arrived in Osmond six years earlier to supervise the construction of the hospital then in progress.

65 Years Ago. . .

Leo Schmit was traveling on a nearby highway when he noted a flat tire on a boat trailer being pulled just ahead of him. Applying the Golden Rule, he immediately attempted to drive even with the head car and inform the driver of his mishap. Just as Leo was parallel with the boat trailer, the flat tire ripped the fender from the trailer, throwing it under the Schmit car where it punctured the crank case, draining the oil.

In a letter to the Osmond Republican and other newspapers, Congressman Ralph Beermann of the Third Nebraska District endorsed a plan proposed by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce to process wheat into an edible form instead of shipping and storing the whole grain in various parts of the country. The Dept. of Agriculture had made the wheat storing move suggestion as a means of providing food in case of nuclear attack.

Workers on the Theisen farms southwest of town finished threshing 600 acres of oats. Every acre was cut with a binder and bundles shocked in the manner familiar to farmers of two or three decades earlier. Six teams of horses pulled the bundle racks as the 12-man crew went through 60-70 acres a day. One reason the Theisen operations worked in the old-fashioned way, said Cap Theisen, was the need for straw for their huge cattle-feeding operation.

Members of the Osmond midget baseball team took things into their own hands Aug. 10, 1961. The local diamond, being a muddy mess as a result of hard rain the night before, had to be drained, raked and dragged for the game that night. Anxious to play ball, the ambitious youngsters cleaned things up in about three hours. The job was usually done with a tractor. Pictured or helping were Johnny Theisen, Jack Adkins, Steve Liewer, Pat Stanosheck, Mark Theisen, Terry McClain, Gene Bade, Gene Tacey, Mike Stanosheck, Paul Kahler, Wayne Hummel, Sid Moore, Dale Powers, Earl Bahr and Randy Peters.

50 Years Ago. . .

Once affectionately known as Tiger Stadium, Osmond’s municipal ball park was getting a major face lifting at the direction and work of the town council, city maintenance men Ron Aschoff and Milton Huntemann, private contractors J. P. Theisen and Sons, the job corps and perhaps others.

Virtually all trees, mainly diseased American elm, Chinese elm and cottonwood, were being uprooted prepa- ratory to final disposal. Leveling and grading processes were in progress.

A 1930-40 vintage board fence that encircled two sides of the park were being replaced with a post and cable affair. Bids were being sought on a new steel roof for the grandstand.

The ball park originally was laid out, grandstand built and trees planted in the early 1930s. In that day, home plate faced the southwest with daytime batters looking into the afternoon sun. Some 10 years later, the order was reversed and batter faced pitcher looking to the northeast.

Dick Morten of Randolph opened a plumbing and electric shop in Osmond, in the former Goeres Electric building. The firm would operate under the name of Morten Plumbing and Electric.

Know where the Osmond city dump was located in the city’s early days?

Well, it wasn’t far from the brick factory. The whole lot was the east edge of town where now is located the lighted baseball and softball park. City workmen, under direction of maintenance man Ron Aschoff, recovered some of the iron refuse that was dumped there in an early day. The iron pieces were protruding from a fill some 100 feet east of the grandstand. There were no antiques of any value, Aschoff said.

25 Years Ago. . .

A decorated front yard greeted Lonnie Gardner when she awoke on her birthday. Observing a 60th birthday might be bad enough, but announcing it on underwear? In addition to the message on the clothesline, each stake in the yard contained a pair of underwear. At the suggestion of the perpetrators of the birthday “observance,” friends and relatives sent “gifts” of underwear to Lonnie.

10 Years Ago. . .

Four-H members winning trophies at the Pierce County Fair included Madeline Huwaldt, intermediate champion beef showman, champion Hereford breeding heifer and champion shorthorn plus breeding heifer; Zachary Huwaldt, champion crossbred market steer, champion pen of 3 market beef and overall beef exhibitor; Alexander Alderson, senior champion livestock judging; Matthew Alderson, junior champion poultry showman; Zachary Alderson, senior champion poultry showman, champion canned food and senior champion photography exhibit; Caydence Krienert, intermediate champion BB gun shooting sports contest.

Addresses are Osmond unless listed otherwise. Also listed are participants with Outstanding exhibits.

Jessica Evans of Pierce - Graffiti art, blue; scratch art-animal-gopher, blue; scratch art-other-Groot, blue; portrait girl-unframed-acrylic, blue; champion fine arts/crafts; adult bride, red; boy-plaid shirt, blue; family 3 sisters, blue; Nebraska landscapesunrise Pierce County, blue; still life-Lady Stetson, blue; black and white baseball player, blue; special effects-Kuehler, golf, blue; patriot-memorial wall, blue; unlisted-getting ready, blue; scenic-soldier-Washington, D.C., blue Jamie Gubbels — Heart refrigerator magnet, red; wall hanging-cross, blue; Lego from kit-red flowers, red; greeting card, blue; 3-D stitch, red; unlisted-pink coaster, red Elijah Huwaldt of Pierce — Monster cookies, blue Sara Huwaldt — Scenic-night time beach, blue; pets-3 dogs, red; flora- lilies, red; children-Elinor, red Tanya Huwaldt of Pierce — Scrapbook, blue Marisa Jenkins — Crocheted afghan, blue; dream catcher, blue Brecklyn Koehler - Acrylic beach/ tree, red; pencil drawing-cow, red; clay cow by tank-unlisted, blue Brent Kolterman of Pierce — Mountains-glacier, red; scenic-ocean sunset, red; family-5 formal, red; adult with totem pole, red; black and white bridge-wooden, red; floral-front steps, red; children-what a look, red; black and white bridge, red; petunia (single), red; potted plant, red Brittany Kolterman — Mulberries, blue; large zucchini, red; peas, blue; banana pepper, red; jalapeno peppers, blue; slicer cucumbers, red; radishes, red; medium zucchini, red; marigold (dwarf), blue; petunia (single), blue; Support the Troops, red; childrenpearls, blue; black and white grin, red; special effects-fireworks, blue; pets “Tiny,” red; family-5 months lucky charms, red Jennie Kolterman — Acrylic-bird, blue; children-brown eyes,, blue; photography Best of Show; black and white broken bridge, red; adult- daughter/husband, red; family-large family, red; scenic, seaside, blue; action-boat on water, red; reflection- mountains, blue; digital enhancement- water, blue; floral-wagon wheel, red; stewed tomatoes, blue; chili sauce, red; salsa, blue; peppers-jalapeno, red; green tomatoes, blue; green beans, red; green cabbage, red; Wandering Jew, red; petunia, red; vinca, red; moss rose, red; marigold (dwarf), red; aloe vera, red; philodendron, red; unlisted potted plant (money tree), blue; potted plant arrangement, red Lucas Kolterman — Tomato, red; peppers, blue; jalapeno peppers, blue; slicer cucumbers, red; medium zucchini, red; rhubarb, blue; marigold (dwarf), blue; petunia (single), blue; pets-kitten, blue; children-tractor, red; special effects-fireworks, red; black and white, baby in basket, red; brown eggs, blue; white eggs, red Levi Morfeld — Garden art, blue; fairy garden, blue; spider plant, blue; lily (day), blue; brown eggs, blue; rainbow picture, blue; animal-eagle, red; jungle theme picture, red; foam art-tractor, blue; bird house, red; caterpillar-unlisted, blue; T-shirt, blue; brown eggs, blue; mulberries, red; tomatoes, red Xavier Morfeld — Framed pen drawing, blue Peyton Neal — Water colorwaterfall, red Lux Paulsen of Meadow Grove — Unframed water color, red; red- white-blue flowers, blue

Kim Armstrong of Logan, IA — Piecemakers Award Emilee Backer of Randolph — Youth Best of Photography Halsey Baumann of Pierce — Youth Award-Textiles Debbie Brunssen of Randolph — Best Food Participant Kathy Duval — Best of County, Best Potted Flower Chris Hilkemann of Pierce — Top Canned Foods Award Linda Latimer of Pierce — Superintendent Choice Award Betty Leisner of Pierce — Best Cookies-Cookie Jar Award Bella Lewon of Pierce — Top Youth Canning Award Lyle Lingenfelter of Plainview — Champion Woodworking-end grain cutting board Octavia Rosenkrans of Pierce — Best Youth Cut Flowers, Top Youth Award-Farm Products Lynn Spatz of Pierce — Outstanding Vegetable Exhibit Shari Steiner of Norfolk/Pierce - Judges Choice, Food Sweepstakes Award Teri Sudbeck of Hadar — Best Cut Flower Genevieve Svitak of Randolph — Best Youth Food Award Beth Venteicher of Pierce — Youth Champion Wood Burning-cattle Tucker Weinrich of Pierce — Youth Champion Fine Arts/Crafts

Jenna Rose Zierke of Hadar — Best Textile Karen Zierke of Pierce — Best Bread Award

From Jan. 1 through July 15, Nebraska’s Unclaimed Property Division returned $13,783,664 across 11,408 claims, with an average paid claim of approximately $1,200. During all of 2025, the state returned approximately $19.7 million through nearly 20,000 claims.

"Our office is working hard to return unclaimed assets to rightful owners," Spellerberg said. “This isn’t the state’s money — we’re simply safeguarding it until the owners or their heirs come forward to claim it. The Unclaimed Property Division aims to make the search and claims process as simple as possible.”

Under Nebraska law, the State Treasurer's Office holds unclaimed property as a consumer protection measure until the rightful owners or their heirs come forward to claim it. Unclaimed property includes dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, unpaid wages, stocks, life insurance proceeds, safe deposit box contents, and other assets.

Since Nebraska’s unclaimed property law took effect in the late 1960s, the State of Nebraska has returned more than $315 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 your business or organization. If there’s a match, you can begin the claim process online.

For questions, call the Unclaimed Property Division at (877) 572-9688, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.

Those tedious little chores we had to do when we were children, they created so much anguish. They came at the worst possible times: directives given by a parent to clean your room, pull weeds or carry in the groceries. In my mind they were equivalent to stomping straw in the mud to make bricks for the Pharaoh.

Any sort of compromise or negotiation was useless. I don’t even ever remember trying. My theory is that I tried to debate the order once and subsequently lost; probably soon after I stopped wearing diapers, cloth back in those days. Spare the rod and spoil the child more than likely.

A firm daily "suggestion" after breakfast and before bed would be to brush my teeth. The torment of having to dab a creamy blob of paste from an aluminum tube onto the bristles of a brush, into your mouth and across your teeth was agonizing, an unnecessary yet unavoidable mandate from taller, larger members of the household.

But after the mistakes and mishaps through life including collisions, lack of coordination and barroom brawls, I’ve come to realize the extreme importance of practicing good oral hygiene and count my blessings

These competitive grants were funded with state funds allocated through the Nebraska Legislature and administered by the Nebraska Library Commission. Library Improvement Grants help to facilitate growth and development of library programs and services by supplementing local funding with state funds designated for these purposes.

Grant funding was used to assist libraries with upgrading to Windows 11, as Windows 10 support ended in October 2025. Windows 10 computers no longer receive security and software updates, which puts those computers at a greater risk for viruses and malware.

By Microsoft declaring Windows 10 EOL (End of Life) and no longer providing security updates, libraries were confronted with two issues. They were using computers that didn’t meet the Windows 11 security requirements and couldn’t be upgraded to Windows 11 and/or were using compatible computers that didn’t have fast enough processors and/or enough memory to run Windows 11 very well.

Thus, many libraries applied for the Library Improvement Grant to fund the purchase of new Windows 11 computers.

The NLC provided reimbursement grants to libraries who had already purchased their own Windows 11 computers and purchased computers on behalf of the libraries that had not yet made their own purchases.

Andrew Sherman, NLC Library Technology Support Specialist, stated, “By diligently reviewing the computer vendors and the inventory they had available, the Library Commission was able to secure reasonable prices and fulfill all the grant requests for new computers." Sherman preconfigured the new computers, delivered, and installed them for the libraries. Libraries received desktop computers, laptops, monitors, keyboards, and mice.

The libraries receiving grants included Osmond Public Library, Plainview Public Library, Bridgeport Public Library, Garfield County Library in Burwell, Crawford Public Library, Fairfield Public Library, Hastings Memorial Library in Grant, Greenwood Public Library, Meadow Grove Public Library, Morrill Public Library, Newman Grove Public Library, St. Edward Public Library, Sidney Public Library, Lied Tekamah Public Library, Valentine Public Library and Walthill Public Library.

As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, bringing together people and information.

Casandra L. Mitchell, Count I. Pos- sessing/consuming open alcohol, fine $50, costs $49 Clayton J. Carlson, Count I. DUIalcohol- 1st offense, judgment 9 months probation, license revoked 60 days, Ignition Interlock ordered, fine $500; Count II. Acts declared unlawful-license, judgment 9 months probation, fine $50, costs $49 Eduardo Aguilar, no operator’s license, $124 Bergin P. Gossman, speeding, improper/defective vehicle light, no splash aprons, $174 Felipe J. Pulido, speeding, driving on shoulder of highway, following too close, $249 James D. Pick, speeding, excess windshield and/or window tint, no splash aprons, $299 The following are for speeding: Jorge L. Rubi, $124; Reyes Garcia Jr., $124; Amy S. Krasuski, $124; Matthew G. Harrison, $174; Maria V. Rosas, $174; Mark A. Moes, $174; Jay M. Coburn, $249; Pawel R. Przeslakawski, $349

REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS Edward Reimers and wife to Blake Reimers and wife, Pt. S½SW¼, 1-28-3.

Lo-Le Investments, LLC Leon F. Grothe - Managing Member to Riverside Land & Cattle, LLC aka Walton Family Holding, LLC, Lot 3, Block 6, Original Town of Plainview.

Boyer Rentals LLC, Roy Dean Boyer - Manager, Christi Lee Boyer - Manager to Allen W LLC, Pt. Lots 5, 6, 11, Block 2, Goulds Addition of Plainview; Pt. Lots 6, 7, Block 1, Englers Addition of Plainview, Remarks: W15’ Lot 6, E30’ Lot 7; Lot 5 Subdivision Lots 5-6-7-8, Block 11, Chilvers 6th Addition of Plainview; Lots 10, 11, Block 4, Pacific Townsite Co. 1st Addition of Plainview; Lot 8 & Pt. Lot 7, Block 10, Pacific Townsite Co. 1st Addition of Plainview, Remarks: W21’ Lot 7; Lots 3, 4, Block 11, Pacific Townsite Co. 1st Addition of Plainview.

Pierce Community Golf Course, Inc. to Pierce Investments, LLC, Pt. SW¼NW¼, W½SW¼, 21-26-2.

LV Capital, LLC Rachel Zuhlke Manager to Zuhlke Properties, LLC, Lots 7, 8 & Pt. Lot 9, Block 2, Pittacks Addition of Plainview; Lots 1, 2, & Pt. Lots 3, 10, 11, 12, Block 1, Pittacks Addition of Plainview; Lot 1 & Pt. Lot 2, Block 2, College Addition of Plainview.

Chris Lorenz to Deborah E. Mozak, Lots 3, 4, Block 5, Original Town of McLean.

Jerry Jay Reikofski and wife to Jerry Jay Reikofski and wife, Tyler Reikofski, Nicholas Reikofski, Zachary Reikofski, Ava Reikofski, SE¼, 10-28-3; Pt. SE¼NE¼, Pt. NE¼SE¼, 31-27-3; Pt. SW¼SW¼, 28-27-3; Pt. SW¼NE¼, Pt. N½NW¼, SW¼NW¼, Pt. SE¼NW¼, Pt. E½SE¼, W½SE¼, 33-27-3.

RNC Rentals, LLC Richard Clemans - Member, Nicole Clemans Member to Riverside Land & Cattle, LLC aka Walton Family Holding, LLC, Pt. Lots 4, 5, Block 14, College Addition of Plainview.

Scott Heinemann, a third-generation farmer in Wayne County, will host the event on Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Heinemann lives near Winside and grows corn, soybeans, oats, and cereal rye. He utilizes no-till, cover crops, and rotational grazing to control erosion and build soil health while reducing input costs.

“Scott is passionate about soil health and protecting precious water resources,” said Andrew Tonnies, policy associate with the Center. “He is always looking for practical ways to improve the land, while maintaining productivity and resiliency on his operation.”

Heinemann has planted hundreds of trees and shrubs, established grassed waterways, and created pollinator borders to support wildlife and strengthen the farm’s natural systems. He also works closely with neighboring livestock producers to graze cover crops, which is an additional benefit for both soil health and the local agriculture ecosystem.

“Finding solutions to unique farming challenges takes an open mind and some creativity,” said Tonnies. “Farmers and ranchers who continue to pri- oritize conservation on their operations will gain a lot from this field day."

Free lunch and conversation will follow the farm tour. The event is a part of Conservation Mentorship Network programming, which facilitates peer-to-peer relationships among Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers to foster learning and advance adoption of conservation practices.

Registration is required by Sept. 1 at cfra.org/events.

Wise and Wild is a program for those aged 18 and up who love the outdoors. It will be at 10 a.m. on select Tuesdays at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

On Aug. 18, the topic for this free event will be Going Bullfrogging. Learn all about bullfrogs and their biology, then try catching some at the lake with a net or fishing pole.

HERITAGE FARM AWARDS Heritage Farm Awards are sponsored by AkSarBen and Nebraska Farm Bureau. They are presented to families who have had continuous ownership of Pierce County property for 150 years or longer. There were four Heritage Farm Awards presented this year. The Steinkraus Heritage Farm was featured last week.

Seegebarth Homestead

The Seegebarth Homestead of 160 acres in South Branch township was originally purchased by Ferdinand Seegebarth in 1875. The current farm of 105 acres is farmed by a great-great grandson, Douglas Seegebarth and his wife, Brenda. They raise horses, rent out some pasture and maintain a hay meadow.

Congratulations to the Seegebarth family.

Wilhelmine Manske Homestead Wilhelmine Manske purchased 160 acres northeast of Pierce in 1876. The property was passed on to a son and his wife, Ernest and Tillie Manske, in 1954. The homestead is currently owned by Steven and Peggy Wragge and Dennis White. Corn, soybeans and hay are produced on the farm.

Congratulations to the Manske family.

Ralph and Lorene Mittelstaedt Jargus Mittelstaedt applied for a homestead of 240 acres in Pierce County in 1862 and was awarded the property in 1877. The property was passed on to grandson Ralph and Lorene Mittelstaedt in 1968. Some 225 acres are still farmed, raising corn, alfalfa and cattle. Current owners are Rex and Faye Mittlestaedt, Kathy Kruger, Lilah Knox, Karen Sloan and Candace Sutter.

Congratulations to the Mittelstaedt family.

PIONEER FARM AWARDS There were also three Pioneer Farm Awards to present this. These families have had continuous family ownership for 100 years.

Rafert Family Farm

William Langemeier purchased 160 acres northeast of Plainview in 1918. The property was then passed down to his daughter, Alva Langemeier, and then to Ed and Alva Rafert in 1946. Current owners are Lyle and Alvetta Rafert.

Congratulations to the Rafert family.

Friedrich Family Pioneer Farm Jacob and Elsie Friedrich purchased 160 acres northwest of Plainview in 1926. Grandson Albert Friedrich and wife Dianne acquired the farm in 2015. They raise corn and soybeans.

Congratulations to the Friedrich family.

Haas Family Farm

Fred Haas Sr. was born in Grant County, Wisconsin, on March 26, 1865. When he reached adulthood, the urge to travel brought him to Rushville, NE, where he took up a homestead east of Rushville. He married Mary Etta Lenstra on Sept. 23, 1887. Several years later, they moved to Randolph via covered wagon. While in Randolph, Fred learned the blacksmith trade.

They came to Pierce in 1899 and purchased the Gasteel farm three and a half miles southeast of Pierce. He purchased 169 acres northwest of Pierce in 1926 where they lived until his wife passed away in 1938. He then lived with his children on the farm.

Fred Sr. and three of his sons lived on the land northwest of Pierce which had been divided into separate farms. John Haas acquired the farm in 1942 and moved into Pierce in 1960 and then his oldest son, Gerald, and his family moved to this farm, which they purchased a few years later.

Gerald lived on the farm until his death in 2025. His wife, Charlotte, continues to live on the farm. Corn, alfalfa, oats and soybeans as well as a variety of livestock has been produced on this farm.

At one time, Fred Haas Sr. owned 480 acres in Pierce county, debt free, and 120 acres is still owned by Gerald’s family.

Congratulations to the Haas family.

Coverage of the Nebraska season will begin with its annual “Nebraska Women’s Volleyball: Red-White Scrimmage” at 3 p.m. CT, Sunday, Aug. 16, on Nebraska Public Media.

Nebraska will face Georgia Tech on Saturday, Sept. 12, and Rutgers on Friday, Sept. 25. Match times will be announced later.

Nebraska Public Media’s Creighton volleyball coverage begins when the Bluejays host Xavier at 1 p.m. CT, Sunday, Oct. 11.

The Huskers return to Nebraska Public Media for a match against Illinois on Thursday, Nov. 12. The match time will be announced later.

Coverage of the 2026 volleyball season concludes when Creighton hosts Villanova at 1 p.m. CT, Sunday, Nov. 15.

Fans can watch the Creighton games live online at NebraskaPublicMedia. org/ live and on the Nebraska Public Media Sports YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@ NebraskaPublicMediaSports.

Streaming information for Nebraska games can be found at Huskers.com.

“ Nebraska Volleyball” and “CreightonVolleyball” are productions of Nebraska Public Media Sports.