Latest articles - Humphrey Democrat

Lindsay board talks st. projects

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:08 -0500

Street work is being planned in Lindsay. The village board approved the work during its July 1 meeting.

The board agreed to seek three bids to be presented at the August meeting to raise six manholes in the village and pour a 4-feet by 4-feet by 6-inch concrete pad around each of them.

The board has one bid from Obrist Construction for $1,200, but wants two more bids by August.

The manholes are buried under dirt and gravel, and are located in alleys around town. Over the years gravel and dirt has built up over them.

The board also is seeking three bids for armor coating Hillside Drive, Ash Street and Linden Street.

In other agenda items, the board:

• Approved Michelle Preister to the fire and rescue department. She is EMT certified.

• Approved Ross Korth’s building permit at 112 Ash St. to construct a 15-feet by 30-feet concrete patio on to the house.

• Tabled Amber Klassen’s request to install camper pads in the park.

• Tabled repairing or replacing the east shelter roof at the park.

• Approved closing Pine Street from Third Street to Fourth Street Aug. 22-23 for the Lindsay Holy Family Parish Bazaar.

• Approved closing Pine Street from Third Street to Fourth Street for Lindsay Holy Family Elementary School activities 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. August 2026-May 2027.

• Tabled any work for the time being at 120 East First St. over a sunken/broken driveway at 118 East First St. from water main installation in 2019.

• Approved the draft of the floodplain management ordinance. It must be sent to the Department of Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment and FEMA for their review before adopted.

• Discussed possible revisions to the village’s 1&6 Year Road Plan. A public hearing will be held in the future.

• Renewed membership with Nebraska Rural Water Association Aug. 1, 2026-July 31, 2027, at a cost of $200.

MURPHY'S LAW

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:05 -0500

It was quite a season.

I had not been on a t-ball field for better than 20 years until this season when I helped coach my grandson, Linus, and his team.

What a hoot. I remember when my kids, Claire and Alek, played, and nothing has changed.

The kids are still out of the field with no clue why.

They would rather chase each other around or play in the dirt.

When the ball is hit they all converge on it like stray cats going after a free meal.

No matter how many times they are told to throw the ball to first base they are more proud to have wrestled the ball away from a teammate than know what do with it.

They run three-fourths of the way to first before throwing the ball that goes in every direction except toward first.

When they hit the ball off the tee, they have to be told to run to first base every time.

Once on first they have to be coaxed to run to second, and then again to third and home.

Linus often wondered off the field into the stands to talk to his dad and grandparents or get a drink — he’s all about hydration.

We were in the field one game, and I asked my daughter, Claire, where Linus was, and she pointed to the stands where he was sitting next to his grandma having a drink.

He came home from every game dirty. Not because he played hard or was sliding or diving around the field, but because there is dirt around home plate, and he liked to get down and play in the dirt or kick it around. There was usually a cloud of dirt around him.

The games lasted 2 innings, no score was kept, but everyone won.

I had so much fun watching these kids, giving them highfives, and just being around them. The smiles on their faces were priceless.

It reminds me that we all start off playing these games, whether it’s baseball, basketball, football or some other activity, and the only goal is to have fun.

Sure, we want the kids to learn a couple things, where the bases are, how to hold the bat, how to hold their gloves and throw, and even which hand the glove goes on, but no one signed up their kid because they thought they were going to be a great player or win a lot of games.

The kids got introduced to the game, and at 3 and 4 years old, they will need to be introduced to it again and again before it makes sense.

Who knows if any of these kids will want to play again or if their parents will want them to, but none of that matters.

The smiles on the faces of the kids and families showed it was a fun season.

These days are precious, no pressure to win or to get a hit or make the perfect throw, just a bunch of kids running around the field.

Way too soon the games will start to matter, the kids will take it seriously, the parents will take it too seriously, and some of the fun will disappear.

This year was all about the fun; playing in the dirt, figuring out how to hold a bat, which hand the gloves goes on, where first base is, and running into the stands to get a drink.

Why sun protection matters: Protecting your skin for life

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:04 -0500

Health Center Chatter:

Spending time outdoors is a wonderful way to stay active and enjoy nature, but protecting your skin from the sun is one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term health. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage skin cells, even on cloudy days or during cooler weather. Over time, this damage builds up and can lead to premature aging, sunspots, wrinkles, and most importantly, skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable. Fortunately, protecting your skin is simple and effective. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day on exposed skin, even when it is cloudy. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UVblocking sunglasses whenever possible. Avoid indoor tanning, as tanning beds also increase the risk of skin cancer.

It is also important to become familiar with your skin. Check regularly for new or changing moles, spots, or sores that do not heal, and report any concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. Early detection greatly improves the success of treatment if skin cancer develops.

Healthy skin is worth protecting at every age. By making sun safety part of your daily routine, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer, prevent premature skin aging, and help keep your skin healthy for years to come. Small daily habits can make a lifelong difference.

If you have concerns about a new, changing, or unusual spot on your skin, contact your primary care provider. They can evaluate your concerns and help determine if further care or a referral is needed.

Bridgette Pudwill, MD

Ethan Hathaway

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:03 -0500

Muddy fun in Platte Center

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500

Future of water witching

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Scott Hemmer uses age-old technique to find water

Follow the rods.

Scott Hemmer, owner of Hemmer Dowsing and Water Witching, is bringing back an age-old method for locating water veins.

“So what I do is I locate water wells for farmers, homeowners, anybody who’s having issues finding water right off the get-go,” he said. “Whether they say they’ve drilled four or five test wells and aren’t coming up with what they needed and I do it the old-fashioned way. My main tools are the old L-shaped rods, which I carry on my hip most of the time, and then I have the old-school way, where they break a branch off a tree. I also carry a wire rod that’s made out of nylon, so it can’t break or crack on me.”

Hemmer said 90 percent of his work comes from farmers who are trying to locate water in order to have a well dug that is large enough to irrigate their crops, but their test holes are only finding water that results in a couple hundred gallons of water per minute.

“I go out there, and I drive the whole perimeter with a side-by-side to see what I can pick up,” he said. “As we’re driving, what I see with my rods is the further back they come toward me, the more gallons per minute we’re picking up, so all of a sudden they start pulling in (toward me), and then we stay there, driving another 30-feet, 40-feet, 50-feet, and the rods pull back out (away from me). I know we’re across the vein where the vein cuts across the field. You can look at a vein as almost like an underground river, where gravel or sand formations got dropped when the glaciers came through. My job is to go around the whole outer diameter of that field and mark where it’s coming in, mark where it’s coming out and make a rough visual map, which I plot on Google maps, and then me and the farmer will enlarge it. We’ll figure out ... where it makes sense economically to drill so you don’t end up running pipe all the way to the corner, you don’t have to run wire all the way to the corner, let’s go to the middle and see where that vein cuts across then we’ll drive that spot, pinpoint it, and that’s where we’ll drop the flag to drill,” he said.

Hemmer said it’s a great feeling when the farmer’s drilling only results in water coming it at 300 gallons per minutes, but he finds a spot where the water flows at over 1,000 gallons per minute.

He said he was hired by a Nebraska farmer who couldn’t find an adequate water supply to irrigate.

“It was a last resort. There was a farmer out by Hartington, and I had their last spot marked, he tested it, and he called me the next day and said it was doing 1,400 gallons per minute,” Hemmer said.

He said he was hired by a Stanton County farmer, and he knew going in it would be difficult. The farmer had already had several holes drilled that came up dry.

“We drove the whole area, found one main vein cutting through the field, and they drilled it, and the first spot we found they didn’t find anything, and I told them next hole go a little bit deeper, and sure enough they went deeper and they ended up finding a 40 gallon a minute well. If they had gone another 40-50 deeper they would have tapped into that on the first hole,” he said.

Working the rods is about as old school as you can get, think black and white western movies and the old, scruffy guy walking around with a “Y” shaped tree limb in his hands.

While Hemmer, at 34, is far from old and scruffy, he believes in the old school way of finding water.

He learned about water dowsing — or water witching — by listening to stories from Gib Preister and Erv Dohmen.

“Gib Preister, that’s where I got started, riding around with him listening to stories about him and Erv Dohmen. Erv Dohmen was the main witcher around here, and at some point in time you have to think there’s some logic behind it, Gib and Erv didn’t just run around doing it for fun,” Hemmer said.

“The way I explain it to people because so far science has not come up with a thought process behind it, is everything gives off an energy or a frequency or vibe, or whatever you want to call it, and you just have to be able to dial into what that energy is.

“We spend our whole lives walking over ground, and all these energies are shooting out, but we’ve never had to dial into them. Take a car radio for example, you have all these frequencies, but you’re never going to hear what you want until you move the dial. It’s training yourself to be able to turn that dial in your head to pick up that one specific frequency, and then use your rods to give you that visual effect so you can decipher what you pick up,” Hemmer said.

He spent a lot of time tuning into those frequencies, practicing his craft.

“I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to try this before we had to drill a customer’s well, so I was able to kind of practice and dial it. If we’re going to drill, and once we’re all set up, I can tell where we’re going to hit, and where we’re not going to hit,” he said. “Then it got to the point where we were at a spot, and I didn’t think we were going to hit anything, and sure enough it was a dry hole.”

He said it’s all about being in tune with nature and your body.

“It’s something you can kind of feel, your body picks it up, and the more I do it, the more I get antsy, I get jittery the closer I get to that vein. I’d classify it more as a feeling,” he said.

The rods he uses move on their own as they start to detect the water.

“Your body picks up the signals, but your mind causes micro-movements in your hands. It might not be something you can see, but it feels abnormal to me, I don’t notice I move my hands, but my hands move very slightly. The wire rods, you hold them with two hands, and it’ll actually pull down when you get closer to the veins, marking the edges with a light weight “Y” rod,” he said.

Hemmer also uses a heavier “Y” rod, which, he said, can be heard crackling in the grips of his hands as is rotates in his hands.

“A customer will look at me and ask ‘How are you doing that?’ What I tell customers is you hold one end of the rod while I hold the other end, and I tell them to hold it as tight as you can, and it’ll start rolling out of their hand,” Hemmer said.

He said there are some people he has let try the rods, and the rods move in their hands when they get near water, but they do not understand why that happens.

“About 75 percent of the people I’ve tried to teach, I can get them to get some sort of reaction out of the tool. People can learn, but there’s a big mental block. If you think you’re going to look stupid doing it, you’ll never learn it.”

Hemmer said he’s 85 to 90 percent accurate identifying water veins for irrigation sites.

“That’s being within 25- to 30-feet on depth, and right around 50 to 60 gallons per minute,” he said. “So if I’m telling you you’re going to be down 340-feet and you’re looking at 550 gallons per minute, we’re going to be pretty close to those numbers by the time all is said and done. The sky’s the limit for what you can find with the rods, but it comes down to practicing on one specific item to get really good at it,” he said.

Farmers make up a bulk of his customers setting up irrigation wells, and in southern Nebraska and northern Kansas he locates water for residential wells, but he also has located unmarked graves.

Near Ogallala, off the Oregon Trail, he was hired to locate some unmarked graves.

“They had some records of people who were supposed to have been buried within a 3- to 4-mile stretch, so they had me check it out, and I ended up finding three graves side by side by side, which matched up with the diaries they found,” he said.

It’s been about four years since he started water dowsing as a profession, he still also works for an area drilling company. His reputation for finding water has led him to Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico.

Hemmer said he is one of the youngest in water dowsing. It’s a profession that dates back generations, and most have either quit or passed away.

“I’m trying to keep the old tradition alive. If there’s no one young getting into it it’s just going to die off, especially with the technology today,” he said.

“I wear these rods on me, and it always starts a conversation with the older guys, they say, ‘I used to do it or my dad used to do it.’ You walk past a younger person, and they don’t know what you’re doing,” he said. “As a kid I heard about, being a farm kid, but I never thought much of it, maybe it’d be fun to try. In this age we’re going through droughts, the Ogallala (Aquifer) is dropping, we’re going through water loss everywhere, and I think that’s one of the biggest reasons I’m going down to Texas so often, the Ogallala is receding so much in certain spots. Unfortunately, I think this service is going to be needed in the next 10 to 15 years,” he said.

His business has grown by word of mouth, customers spreading the word. He’s also on Facebook, and joining the American Dowser Society of Vermont, where he is on its list to serve the mid-United States.

Hemmer said it’s hard to get people to trust the old method still works.

“There’s companies that come out and do scans, and the state does it too with fly overs, but they offer the same guarantees that I do. They’ll tell you where it’s at, but we’re not going to guarantee anything, then why pay an extra $20,000 to check it out with a scanner,” he said.

Scott Hemmer walks a field with his “Y” rod, to find a water source for a farmer’s irrigation system. Courtesy photo

Communities gather to celebrate our Nation’s 250th birthday and 4th of July

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Rocky Herink, 3, of Leigh, hops along during the sack race Saturday as part of Creston’s celebration.

Creston’s 4th of July celebration ended with a light show Saturday night.

The 54th demolition derby drew another big crowd Saturday afternoon in Platte Center.

Democrat photos Hazel Sempek sees eye-to-eye with her frog at Platte Center’s frog jumping contest Thursday evening. More photos, Page 5.

A family parade down Humphrey’s Main Street Saturday for the 4th of July. Families hopped on their bikes, scooters, rode in wagons or walked to celebrate.

A great way to cool off. The Platte Center Fire Department held water fights June 28 in downtown, as kids ran through the water and grabbed fire hoses to cool off each other.

Red, white and blue. The Bank of the Valley Platte Center Branch float celebrated the country’s 250th.

The Humphrey 12

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

The Humphrey 12 and under softball team is the Highway 81/91 League Champions and Highway 81/91 Tournament Champions. Pictured, front row, left to right, are Kinsley Larson, Sawyer Sunderman, Emma Wegener, Lainah Johnson, Sis Korth, Rylee Ott, Haven Abner and Noelle Heinen. Back row, Camela Rathje, Sue Wegener, Sophia Bernt, Liz Korth, Alivia Wiehn, Alexis Sjuts, Zarra Rathje, Evelyn Korus, Jamie Sunderman and Zane Abner.

Golf cart ordinance will be enforced

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:08 -0500

Law enforcement to follow state statue, local ordinance

State and local laws pertain - ing to golf carts will be enforced.

On June 15, the Humphrey City Council passed an ordi - nance governing the operation of golf carts.

Mayor Robert Preister said it's a matter of safety.

"Somebody's going to get hurt, a little kid is going to fall off a golf cart," he said. "It needs to be abided by." Local law enforcement will make sure operators adhere to the law.

Platte County Sheriff Ed Wemhoff said the state law is on the books, and his officers will enforce it.

He pointed out the state law allows for the operation of golf carts within city limits.

"One of the conditions is they can be driven on a street where the speed limit is 35 mph or less, which I think pretty much covers everywhere in town. It changes when you leave city limits, and that means the ordinance does not follow you when you leave city limits.

"Anybody who leaves city limits would be in violation, and you can't be driving that golf cart. This only allows for golf carts to be driven within city lim - its. When you're leaving town to go to the golf course, you're on a state highway," Wemhoff said.

Steeple View Golf Course in Humphrey sits on NE-71A Spur, so there is a short stretch where operators leave city limits and are on the highway.

The state statute states: "A golf car vehicle shall not be op - erated at any time on any state or federal highway but may be operated upon such a highway in order to cross a portion of the highway system which intersects a street as directed in subsection (3) of this section. A city or vil - lage may, as part of such ordi - nance, implement standards for operation of golf car vehicles that are more stringent than the restrictions of this subsection for the safety of the operator and the public.”

Subsection 3, states: “The crossing of a highway shall be permitted by a golf car vehicle only if the crossing is made at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing.”

Humphrey’s ordinance states: “Golf carts may be operated upon all streets in the City of Humphrey, with a posted speed limit of thirty-five (35) miles per hour or less.”

Wemhoff said, “The state statute clearly states that golf carts cannot be operated at anytime on a state highway. My deputies will make their own choice if they see something that they think needs to be addressed, but obviously it is a violation, and they can stop somebody and cite somebody.”

Lt. Jason Witzel, of the Norfolk Police Dept., is also employed by the City of Humphrey for law enforcement, and was at the council meeting the night the ordinance was passed.

“We want to make sure everyone’s informed of the ordinance,” he said. “If a minor is driving I talk to them and talk to the parents as well and let them know about the ordinance. I want to talk to people, and let them know we will be enforcing it.

“The important thing is making people aware of it, and keeping them informed, and let the parents know why there is an ordinance. Just like scooters, every town is trying to figure out how to handle them. I’m going to rely on the parents to help me out and make their kids aware. We hope we don’t have to give out tickets, but if we have to, we have to. I just don’t want anybody to get hurt,” Witzel said.

Preister also said the city is having the city attorney look into an ordinance for motorized scooters.

Filing deadlines for Nov. 3 election

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:07 -0500

The filing deadline for the Nov. 3 General Election is approaching.

Incumbents and current office holders have until July 15 to file for election, and new candidates have until Aug. 3.

The deadlines are for the following offices: Non-Partisan Offices:

Judges desiring retention must file with the Secretary of State's Office by Aug. 3.

Director Cornhusker Public Power District to file with the Secretary of State's Office: Subdivision No. 5 (6 yr. term-elect 1) Director Elkhorn Rural Pub - lic Power District must file with the Secretary of State's Office: Subdivision No. 1 (6 yr. term-elect 1) Board Members of the Edu - cational Service Unit No. 7 must file with the Secretary of State's Office: District No. 1 (4 yr. termelect 1) District No. 3 (4 yr. termelect 1) District No. 5 (4 yr. termelect 1) District No. 7 (4 yr. termelect 1) Board Members of the Edu - cational Service Unit No. 8 must file with the Secretary of State's Office: District No. 3 (4 yr. term- elect 1) Three Members for each Township Board in Platte Coun - ty (4 yr. term) to file with the Platte County Election Commis - sioner's Office: Bismark, Granville, Oconee, Burrows, Humphrey, Shell Creek, Butler, Joliet, Sherman, Columbus Lost Creek, St. Bernard, Creston, Loup, Walker, Grand Prairie, Monroe and Woodville.

Members of the Board of Trustees for the following Vil - lages (4 yr. term), to file with the Platte County Election Commis - sioner's Office: Village of Cornlea, (elect 3) Village of Creston (elect 3) Village of Duncan (elect 2) Village of Lindsay (elect 2) Village of Monroe (elect 2) Village of Platte Center (elect

3) Village of Tarnov (elect 2)

MURPHY'S LAW

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:04 -0500

It’s inevitable, we will miss out on life events.

I was listening to a sports talk show when the conversation turned serious and they started talking about losing their dads, and all the things their fathers missed.

I can relate. My dad didn’t see me graduate college, get my first job, marry Kelly, meet our kids, Claire and Alek, or his grandchildren.

He never got to follow my career, or see me own a business.

He was gone at 20, so he missed out on a lot.

My mom stuck around until I was 35, so she saw a lot more, but not everything.

As I listened to the sports guys talk about life and death, my mind went to what I might miss out on.

Of course, I’m not going to live forever, and at 64 I have more years behind me than in front of me, but I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.

We all have ancestors we never knew, some we heard stories about, were shown photos and have some sense of who they are. We also have ancestors who lived long before we came around, and have little or no knowledge of them. They are part of the family history, but are just stories to us.

Someday we will all become some form of that, vague remembrances or stories from long ago.

But while we’re here we have a chance to make a positive impact on the people around us.

On our drive back home after our latest Disneyland vacation, our daughter-in-law, Anna, sent a family text about how great it was to spend time together, and we should live closer together so it can happen more often.

Kelly, who’s not prone to being overly emotional —that’s my job — started crying. We had such a great time on vacation that it was tough to say goodbye.

Those are the moments that make life so memorable when we are here.

Our grandchildren, Lyla and Linus, made their second trips to Disneyland, but this trip was the first one they will really remember. Lyla has already asked her dad if they could move to Disney, and Linus hopped on his bike, and when his mom asked him where he was going, he said Disney.

Maybe, some day when Kelly and I aren’t able to go to Disneyland, Lyla, Linus and Bailey, who was too young to make this trip, will still be going and making more memories with their families.

The circle of life keeps going round and round, and it’s amazing how quickly we go from being kids to being parents and then grandparents and greatgrandparents and maybe beyond.

The journey is what’s important, the fun part is when we’re surrounded by family and friends for as long as we’re fortunate.

It’s not what we may miss that’s important, it the time we have that matters most.

Lower Elkhorn NRD, NRCS partner on watershed project

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:03 -0500

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in partnership with the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, received official approval in May for the North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Improvement Plan in eastern Nebraska.

The North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed spans over 226,000 acres in Antelope, Cedar, Knox, and Pierce Counties, Nebraska and includes the Cities of Pierce and Osmond. The plan proposes the implementation of flood damage reduction measures including levee improvements, diversion channels, and pump stations in the City of Pierce, and berms, road raises, and building floodproofing in the City of Osmond. The plan estimates the total construction cost of the project at $28.8 million with the local sponsor being responsible for approximately $9.1 million.

Funding for the plan came through NRCS’s Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Operations Program (WFPO), which provides technical and financial assistance to states, local governments and tribes to plan and implement authorized watershed enhancement projects. NRCS provided $802,000 toward completing the North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Plan. With the plan approved, Lower Elkhorn NRD now qualifies to request future financial assistance from NRCS for developing the identified flood prevention measures.

“NRCS is pleased to have provided technical and financial assistance to Lower Elkhorn NRD for completing the North Fork Elkhorn River Watershed Plan,” said Rob Lawson, NRCS Nebraska state conservationist. “One of our top priorities is assisting local sponsors in identifying and completing watershed projects for natural resource enhancements and public safety.”

“As local sponsors, we are most appreciative of NRCS’s commitment toward completing the watershed plan,” said Brian Bruckner, General Manager, Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District. “Their partnership has helped us identify essential improvements in the North Fork Elkhorn River watershed to reduce flood damage in Pierce and Osmond.”

More Information

To learn more about NRCS programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Producers can also apply for NRCS programs, manage conservation plans and contracts, and view and print conservation maps by logging into their farmers. gov account.

NDOT installing cameras; wildfire hay recovery program starts

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500

Weather permitting, installation of CCTV cameras to monitor road conditions at the following locations will begin on Monday, July 6, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation:

• N-12 at its junction with 8th Street in Crofton (reference post 189.14)

• N-13 at its junction with N-121 (reference post 13.82)

• N-45 at its junction with N-91 (reference post 0.00)

• N-51 at its junction with US74 (reference post 35.51)

• US-275 at its junction with N-57 (reference post 86.09)

• N-57 at its junction with N-59 (reference post 54.86)

• US-20 at its junction with N-116 (reference post 399.39)

• US-30 at its junction with County Road 3 by Richland (reference post 387.22)

• US-81 at its junction with N-98 (reference post 170.94) Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest is the contractor for the project. Work includes installation of CCTV towers and cameras, electrical conduit and related electrical installations, and seeding operations.

Traffic will be maintained with temporary traffic control devices throughout construction. Anticipated to be completed September 2026.

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and put phones down.

Nebraska Wildfire Hay Recovery Program Supports Ranchers in Need

Gov. Jim Pillen, in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, is launching the Nebraska Wildfire Hay Recovery Program as part of ongoing efforts to support ranchers impacted by historic wildfires in western Nebraska.

The wildfires have destroyed grazing pastures, winter feed supplies, fencing and other agricultural infrastructure. This program will provide immediate relief by allowing Nebraskans to donate hay harvested from eligible state highway rights-ofway and help ranchers continue operations during recovery.

Each year, NDOT issue permits authorizing the mowing and harvesting of hay on state highway rights- of-way from July 29 through Sept. 15. While the statute was not originally designed as a donation program, harvested hay can become an important local resource when voluntarily donated to Nebraska cattle producers facing feed shortages due to wildfires.

“One of the things that makes Nebraska special is how we come together during difficult times,” said Pillen. “This effort turns an existing resource into meaningful support for ranchers who have experienced tremendous losses from these wildfires. It’s Nebraskans helping fellow Nebraskans.”

Landowners adjacent to the right-of-way receive first priority for hay harvesting permits through July 29. Other applicants may apply beginning July 30 and are limited to five miles of rightof-way annually.

Permit holders must obtain an NDOT haying permit, sign a liability release accepting all risks associated with hay quality and harvesting activities, provide proof of liability insurance of at least $1 million, and follow all NDOT rules and safety regulations.

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture offers a listing of transportation options and locations accepting donated hay at nda.nebraska.gov/disasterresources. Questions regarding transportation assistance may be directed to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to 800-8310550 or agr.webmaster@nebras ka.gov.

For information regarding hay permits, including eligibility, application procedures and permit requirements, contact the Nebraska Department of Transportation. Additional information on NDOT’s hay permit program is available at dot.nebraska.gov/ business-center/permits/hayharvest.

Summer fun at the library

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500

The Humphrey Public Library’s summer reading program theme was “Unearth a Story.” Children participated in dinosaur-themed crafts and stories, including these at the Humphrey Community Center.

Local ‘rock stars’ take the stage for show

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

So you wanna be a rock star.

The Rock Bank Clinic is perfect for budding musicians.

Started by Archangels Catholic High School music teacher Christopher Secuya, elementary and high school students gave a concert for family and friends June 17 at the Humphrey Community Center.

"The program started about a month before the end of the school year, and this is our first year doing it. We had 10 students sign up, and we've completed six sessions so far. One student wasn't able to perform at the showcase because he wasn't feeling well that day. In addition I had Evelyn Korus as our guest performer. She competed in several singing competitions in Bishop Neumann," he said.

The clinic is a continuation of the growing music program Secuya has grown at St. Francis and ACHS. "We're planning to continue the program every summer," he said. "Getting it started at HSF and ACHS has taken some planning and a lot of support, but it's been exciting to see it come together. I'm not surprised by the interest because it really grew out of the High School Rock Band class, where students are excited about performing the music they love. In fact, some of those students formed their own band called Vivian, and they've already landed several gigs this summer. I'm really proud of what they've accomplished in such a short time." The goal is to grow music knowledge, and the love of music in students.

“My hope is that the students come away with a better understanding of rhythm, tone, and how to play together as a band. Learning how to listen to each other and interact musically is just as important as learning the notes,” he said.

Secuya said he’s happy with how much the students and parents have responded to the program.

“The response from both students and parents has been really encouraging. It’s been a great way for students to stay involved in music and the performing arts during the summer. The students even picked fun band names like “Cornerstone” and “Unshaken.”

Secuya, who plays multiple instruments, has encouraged the kids to do the same.

“And yes, I definitely encourage them to learn and play multiple instruments. It helps them become more well-rounded musicians and gives them a better appreciation of each instrument’s role in the band,” he said.

He has big plans to keep the beat going in kids.

“We’re also planning to host a Battle of the Bands, and will invite other schools. It’s something to look forward in the future, and this summer program is one way to keep students excited, growing as musicians, and looking forward to future performances. My goal is to keep building a strong music community where students have opportunities to learn, collaborate, and showcase their talents throughout the year,” he said.

Performing, left to right, are Tita Secuya (singing), Kyson Huettner (drums), Kline Abner (base) and Daxton Olmer (guitar). They are incoming fifth-graders this fall and are beginners.

Evelyn Korus sang three songs Thursday during the show at the Humphrey Community Center. Democrat photoS

Fun for all

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Something for everyone at Lindsay's Pivot Days

Lindsay once again showed what a community celebration can be.

Pivot Days, sponsored by Lindsay Area Development (LAD), brought people together for a two-day celebration Friday and Saturday. "Pivot Days for 2026 was a success, and we are very blessed with great weather that allowed everyone to come early in the morning on Saturday and hang out through the day with kids activities and going into the night," LAD board member Amber Klassen said.

"I would say the popular event that we'll bring back next year was the punt, pass and kick football, and on Saturday, obviously, inflatables were a big hit, along with the kiddie tractor pull, so we're very blessed, and thank you to all the donors once again who helped make our event successful. Thank you for our community showing up, volunteering and helping every single year and LAD will continue to help improve and build our community," she said.

Noah Lindhorst punts the football during the Punt, Pass & Kick contest.

Paige Classen knows her way around a tractor pull. She fin - ished fifth at nationals a year ago and was giving it her all Sat urday at Pivot Days.

Mike Weeder throws a pitch Saturday during the coed softball game.

Fan favorites, new event highlight Pivot Days

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:10 -0500

Bring the family for two days of fun and entertainment.

Lindsay’s annual Pivot Days returns Friday and Saturday with plenty of activities for all ages.

Lindsay Area Development (LAD) has put together an event that has something for everyone to enjoy.

Pivot Days will have its traditional youth and adult sand volleyball, euchre tournament, and then new this year will be Punt, Pass and Kick Football for pre-K-6th graders at 6:30 p.m. Friday.

“We just wanted to add something different for the kids to play on the football field,” LAD director Amber Klassen, said.

Friday’s events start with a tractor drive at 8:30 a.m., and starting at 6 p.m. there is corn hole and youth sand volleyball, followed at 7 p.m. with the euchre tournament.

Craig Baumgart takes the stage at 8 p.m.

There will be plenty to eat. “We will have a food truck that will have slushies and all of the carnival foods, along with full concessions all day Saturday and then starting from 5:30 on Friday night,” she said.

The Lindsay celebration offers something for everyone, emphasizing family fun.

“We feel Pivot Days is a family, friendly event, with inflatable activities for the kids to do on Saturday, along with adult volleyball and corn hole for the kids in the afternoon, followed up with the tractor pole and fireworks in the evening on Saturday, so Saturday definitely has a lot going on for the kiddos,” Klassen said.

The day starts with a kid and adult Fun Run/Walk at 8 a.m.

At 9 a.m. there is a co-ed sand volleyball tourney, co-ed softball and wet your whistle at the Blood Mary Bar.

At 6 p.m. there’s Corn Hole and a pedal tractor pull.

Dave Merckle plays at 7:30, and the party ends with a bang with fireworks at approximately 10 p.m.

The money raised by Pivot Days stays in the community.

“LAD uses these proceeds to continue to improve the community with various projects,” Klassen said. “We were super thankful for all of our donors every single year that help make this event successful, but also to bring the community together once a year. It’s fun to see different people come from different communities to support the event, but also just having the community come together as a whole.”

The two-day celebration would not be possible without the support of the sponsors.

“We have two great sponsors this year with Lindsay Corporation with the pivot, and then Bone Yard Manufacturing with the cattle shade. Both will be auctioned off July 1 by BigIron. com that will be listed online July 1.”

Golf cart ordinance adopted

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:09 -0500

Humphrey regulates operation; sets penalties for violations

Humphrey is regulating the use of golf carts.

The city council approved an ordinance at its June 15 meeting defining golf carts, who can drive them, penalties for not adhering to the ordinance and other regulations.

The full ordinance can be read on Page 9.

It applies whenever a golf cart is operated on any street or alley in Humphrey, and defines a golf cart as “A four-wheeled recreational vehicle generally used for transportation of person(s) in the sport of golf that is either electric powered or gas powered with an engine displacement of less than 300 cubic centimeters, and a total dry weight of less than 1,200 pounds.”

To drive a golf cart a person must have a valid Nebraska operator’s license and be at least 16 years old.

Golf carts can be driven on all streets in Humphrey with a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less.

Golf carts cannot be driven or parked on city sidewalks.

Golf carts cannot carry more passengers than it is designed for.

Golf carts driven on Humphrey city streets must be equipped with a minimum of the following safety features:

• A slow-moving vehicle sign or a bicycle safety flag, the top of which shall be a minimum of 5 feet above ground level.

• Adequate brakes.

• Rear view mirror on the driver’s side.

Golf carts can be driven on city streets and alleys only be- tween sunrise and sunset.

No golf cart can be operated on any city street at a speed in excess of 20 miles per hour. Posted speed limits must be followed in accordance with the laws of the State of Nebraska.

“Any person operating a golf cart as authorized under this Ordinance must have a valid Class O operator’s license, and the owner of the golf car vehicle shall have liability insurance coverage for the golf car vehicle. The person operating the golf car vehicle shall provide proof of such insurance coverage to any peace officer requesting such proof within five days after such a request. The liability insurance coverage shall be subject to limits, exclusive of interest and costs, as follows: $25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any one accident and, subject to such limit for one person, fifty thousand dollars because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one accident, and twenty-five thousand dollars because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.”

Golf carts allowed by this Ordinance must first be registered with the city clerk. Registration must be in written form and will expire 1 year from the date of issuance. The annual registration fee is $10.

There are penalties for those who do follow the requirements of the ordinance.

“Any person who shall violate or refuse to comply with the enforcement of any of the provisions of this Ordinance ... shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than $100 for a first offence and $250 for each subsequent offense. A new violation shall be deemed to have been committed every 24 hours of such failure to comply. The City Clerk may refuse to issue an annual registration for any golf cart with two or more violations of this Ordinance within the preceding year of registration.”

The council first discussed adopting the ordinance at its May meeting, and had the city attorney draw up the ordinance.

In other agenda items, the council:

• Approved fireworks discharge for Humphrey Days from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. June 20.

• Approved Elkhorn Fencing quotes for pool fence and pickleball fence for $15,533.

• Approved the Special Designated liquor license for St. Francis Parish Bazaar Oct. 4.

• Approved designating the mayor to approve special designated liquor licenses at the time they are filed rather than waiting to do so at a city council meeting.

• Approved Bud’s Sanitation Service increase for garbage pickup from $17 to $17.75.

The city will absorb the increase for now. A rate study will be conducted at a later date.

• Met in executive session with officer Jason Witzel from 7:35 p.m.-8 p.m. When the council resumed in open session no action was taken.

Platte Center fun lasts more than a day

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:08 -0500

The 4th of July is more than a just day in Platte Center, the village celebrates all week.

“Our 4th is not just a day it’s actually multiple days and depends on what day the 4th falls on. We try to get as much squeezed into the week as possible. Our 4th always gets kicked off with mud volleyball and the fun run,” Brooke Schmidt, village clerk said.

Mud Volleyball is one of Platte Center’s staple events. Justin and Kelly Arndt took it over in 2017, and it was going on for 5-10 years before that.

“It is such a fun muddy time with four games going all day. They have anywhere from three to five volunteers for the day for this. The losing team has to ref the next game that is up on that court. A fun muddy time is had by all. We will have our local taco truck here for lunch that day,” she said.

The Fun Run 5k walk/run is hosted by St. John’s Lutheran Church. Volunteers from the school’s PTO and daycare run the event, which has taken place for the last nine years, and it is set to have the biggest one yet. Runners and walkers can still sign up Saturday before the race that starts at 8 a.m. There are several fun things going on, and there will be food trucks in for the event.

The Platte Center firefighters host a water fight on Main Street at 2 p.m. Sunday with about four-six firefighters making it a fun event for kids. “Bring snacks, chairs, suits and SPF to join the fun. This will be followed by a community meal also held by Platte Center Fire Department. They provide the meat, just bring a side to share. It is free to all, and this starts at 6:30 p.m. in Elmwood Park,” Schmidt said.

The Frog Jump and Turtle Races are put on every year, thanks to JoAnn Brandt, Holly Sprunk and volunteers. “These two volunteer their time to get prizes and snacks for the participates. Bring your own turtle, frog or toad to join in July 2 at 6:30 p.m. Kids absolutely love this event,” she said.

The Bank of the Valley of Platte Center hosts a hot dog cook out in front of the bank for anyone near and far. It was a hit last year and they brought it back this year. This happens from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, July 3.

“Our bread and butter is the 4th of July so we plan all year for this. Our very own Platte Center Activities Committee has about eight to 10 volunteers who put together the parade and kiddie tractor pull. Our parade this year is free for all entries.

The Platte Center Parade is on its 54th anniversary. We average 75 floats per year and usually get the last minute entries to get us to 100. We hand out prizes to top three floats for best decorated and this years theme is Americana. The more red, white and blue the better. We will see you at 10:30 a.m., registration is at St. Joe’s church. The kiddie tractor pull takes place right in front of the auditorium. Stick around and enter your children in this event. Thanks PCAC,” Schmidt said.

After the parade the Platte Center Rescue squad holds lunch in the auditorium, giving everyone a chance to hop in the A/C to cool down and grab a bite to eat. The proceeds of this lunch goes towards the Platte Center Rescue Unit.

“Our 51st Platte Center Demo is held by the Platte Center Fire Department. This takes anywhere from 25-45 volunteers. From the concession stands that are provided by Columbus Lakeview. To the beer stand, which often times spouses of firefighters help along side the firefighters. Platte Center Rescue is there with the ambulance to assist with any medical needs for the day. The proceeds of this event go to the needs of Platte Center’s fire department,” she said.

“When it comes to Platte Center’s Fourth festivities, it takes a Village. The amount of volunteer’s time is unreal, we are so thankful to each and every individual that makes the 4th magic happen. It shows how deep the traditions are when it comes to the 4th. Every year a little something is added to make it different and more special. The amount of people that travel into the Village just for the Parade and Demo and all of our events means the absolute most to see the streets full of parents, grandparents and kids. If you have ever been to the 4th in PC you know how special it is. If you have yet to part take in any event we encourage you to come and enjoy the atmosphere. There is truly something for everyone here during the 4th,” Schmidt said.

“I just want to say, whether it is your first Platte Center 4th or your 53rd time. It’s a tradition that is cherished by so many. A heart felt thank you to the volunteers. There is no I in team and we all come together to make the Village of Platte Center’s 4th the most memorable time. To see our little Village packed with people celebrating and enjoying life is something to never take for granted. We hope to see you all on Saturday,” she said.

HPS board talks metal building bids for new school

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:07 -0500

The Humphrey Public Schools Board of Education reviewed and discussed the pre-engineered metal building bids for the new 7-12 school building during a special meeting June 15.

John Wieser, of Hausmann Construction, was present to review the bid package and answer questions.

The board approved the authorization to proceed with early release work, so the contract for the pre-engineered metal building can be executed.

The next design meeting was scheduled for Tuesday.

In February voters approved a $15.9 million bond issue for a new 7-12 school.

Construction could get under way in the fall.

MURPHY'S LAW

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:04 -0500

Like most people I have a love-hate relationship with flying.

Of course any trip, whether flying or driving, taking a bus or train, the beginning is always better than the end.

That’s because the anticipation of a trip, especially a vacation, is mush better than coming back. We are excited to go, and are more tolerant of any hiccups.

On the way back home we’re tired and sad our trip is over, and that means a return to work.

When we flew to Disneyland a couple weeks ago the time in the air was good.

We flew Southwest, so that means they now have assigned seats, which we liked better than logging on 24 hours ahead of our flights, and hoping we get to be boarded in the first half of the plane.

Every time my wife logged on to get our boarding passes, even when we were on the computer at the exact time boarding opened, we were never in the first group. Now, we don’t have to worry about that because we had our seats.

It’s not perfect, it’s not as great as having a private jet or even flying first class — which we’ve never done — but it worked well for us.

The biggest issue we had was having our flight from Phoenix to Orange County delayed about 2 hours. We were anxious to get to Disneyland, and I had hopes of going to Downtown Disney that evening, but that disappeared in Sky Harbor International Airport, which trade marked itself, “America’s Friendliest Airport.”

Maybe they are so friendly because you have to spend so much time there they have to make up for the delays.

But as I said, we were starting our vacation, so the delayed flight vanished from my mind once we walked into the Disneyland Hotel.

It also helped the flight was not full, so Kelly and I could spread out, and not have to sit next to strangers.

Vacation was great — too short — but great.

However, it ended, and we can laugh at it now, but we had to wake up at 3:30 a.m. to catch our shuttle and make it to the airport to fly back home.

Our return trip was from Orange County to Denver International Airport, another airport that has caused us nightmares on previous trips.

Yes, there was a delay, but just a matter of minutes, and we were back in the air, heading home.

On the flight my wife and I sat across from each other with our kids and their families nearby. The guy behind me liked to stretch his legs and his foot ended up on my arm rest.

You never know what you get on a flight, and some people make themselves too much at home.

That is where we are now, home, back in our routine. Kelly is putting together photo albums for all of us, so we can look back at our trip.

Some day we’ll be back in those or some other airports again, going through similar experiences with different flights.

We’ll put up with any inconvenience at the start of our vacation, and be less tolerant on the way home.

As many experiences or issues you have flying, I sure wish I had another family trip planned.

NeFarmTok holding fund-raiser in Humphrey

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:03 -0500

Golf tournament, dinner, auctions to support new ambulance, Nebraska family

NeFarmTok wants to help.

The Nebraska-based nonprofit organization is holding a fund-raiser in Humphrey, July 11, to raise money for a new ambulance for the Humphrey Rescue Department, and to help the Rozner family, of Cozad, recover from a fire that destroyed their home.

Cyndi Schure, of Humphrey, is the NeFarmTok President, and organizer of the fund-raiser.

The event starts with a golf tournament at Steepleview Golf Course and includes a free-will donation supper after the conclusion of the tournament and silent and live auctions starting at 5 p.m. at the Humphrey Community Center.

Mitchell Equipment is the title sponsor for the fund-raiser.

NeFarmTok was organized in 2020 and officially became a 501c nonprofit organization in 2022.

“It was started by a few farmers and ranchers in Nebraska who met on the social media site, TikTok,” Schure said. “They met and wanted to start a nonprofit to help people all over Nebraska, so that’s how they got the name Ne-FarmTok.”

In 2024 Schure became president, and starting this year, Humphrey will be the home for all fund-raisers, no matter where in the state they are raising funds.

She also said NeFarmTok is not just for farmers and ranchers who need help, anyone in the state who needs assistance is eligible.

The golf tournament here already has 18 teams signed up from all over the state, and Schure said she would like to have 24 teams participate.

After that the Community Center will host the auctions and meal.

Schure said hot dogs are being donated for lunch by Klub 81 at the golf course, an anonymous donor also pitched in for the lunch, and another anonymous donor has stepped up to provide the pork for the evening meal at the Community Center, and Schure is having the pork smoked.

“Anyone can come to the auctions, they don’t have to be a golfer, they don’t have to be a member of our organization, anyone can come,” she said.

Auction items will be set up by 3 p.m. that day, so people can come in and bid on the silent auction items.

Hunter Nathan, who operates Farm Bureau Insurance in Humphrey and Howells, will play guitar after the dinner.

In its short time in existence, NeFarmTok is making a difference. In March, local farmers trucked 473 bales of hay to western Nebraska after fire devastated farmers and ranchers there.

“We have more hay that can go, but farmers need to do field work, the price of fuel has gone up, but we also managed to get every drop of the fuel donated, and we’re planning on getting more bales of hay out there, probably in July,” Schure said.

The organization started a gas card program, in which people needing help paying for fuel, can fill out the required paperwork to be eligible to receive assistance, and if they qualify they receive a card to buy fuel.

“It’s a lengthy form, but they can contact me, and I’ll e-mail it to them,” she said.

Gas cards have been sent to families who need to make trips to appointments for medical help.

The Mary Lanning Healthcare - Morrison Cancer Center in Hastings and Grand Island, helped Schure get the program started, which is why the eligibility form is required.

“Right now we have it funded so that we can give $50 a month for three months for one family,” she said.

There also is Ticket Fundraiser for the Lincoln Saltdogs Farmer’s Appreciation Night game June 26. If NeFarmTok can sell 50 tickets through a special link on their website, it receives funding.

There is still time to sign up at www.nefarmtok.com, just click on the link.

NeFarmTok has helped families around the state with transportation costs, including families dealing with cancer, the Spalding Rescue Department with funds for an ambulance and another family whose daughter had non-cancerous brain tumors.

The organization is actually hoping more people in need of help come forward.

“That’s the hard part. I’m searching for people (to help),” she said. “One of the hardest parts is trying to find people to help.”

She looks online to see if there are people who need assistance, and that is how she learned about Chet, Lindsay and Rhett Rosner, who in January lost their home in a fire.

NeFarmTok does one fundraiser each year, and those funds, plus donations, are used to help people. No one is paid, so it is run by volunteers like Schure. They are a small group of 15, and welcome anyone who wants to join.

“The money raised here, stays here,” she said.

Anyone who wants to join Ne-FarmTok, donate, knows someone who needs help or needs help themselves, can go to www. nefarmtok.com or contact Schure at cyndischure70@gmail.com.

Alumni invited to Rivalry Reunion volleyball tournament & all-star gathering in Lindsay

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:03 -0500

Alumni invited to Rivalry Reunion volleyball tournament & all-star gathering in Lindsay

New event aims to bring area communities together

Alumni from neighboring communities are invited to form a team, represent their hometown, or gather with former classmates in the upper-level party space overlooking all four courts during Rivalry Reunion: Coed Alumni Volleyball Tournament & All-School Alumni Party Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Lindsay Event Center.

Alumni from across the region are being invited to a new event built around a coed volleyball tournament and an all-school gathering designed to bring former classmates, teammates, and rival schools back together for a day of friendly competition and community connection.

The event is open to alumni from Albion, Cedar Rapids, Clarkson, Elgin, Genoa, Howells, Humphrey, Leigh, Lindsay, Monroe, Newman Grove, Petersburg, Silver Creek, Spalding and St. Edward, as well as alumni from any other communities that would like to participate. The focus is on schools that competed against one another in high school athletics.

Teams are encouraged to represent a school and be made up primarily of alumni or former students from that community. However, some teams may need to recruit a spouse, friend, family member, or player from another school to complete a roster.

“For this first year, we’re keeping the team rules relaxed,” said Ginger Willard, marketing director for the Lindsay Event Center. “We’d much rather see schools and communities put a team together and join the fun than sit out because they’re short a few players.”

Coed teams may have no more than three males on the court at one time, and all-female teams are welcome. Early registration is encouraged for anyone considering putting a team together.

Teams may register now to reserve their spot and submit their final roster by July 24. Early registration will help with scheduling and planning for food, beverages, and activities throughout the day.

Games will be played on four courts in the Bank of Lindsay Wellness Center gymnasium and the Lindsay Event Center rec gym. The facility’s upper-level party space overlooks all four courts and will be open throughout the day. Music, food trucks, a full bar, and concessions will be available as alumni cheer on their teams, bring back old school cheers, and enjoy some friendly banter with former rivals.

While volleyball is the main event, the gathering is open to all alumni, families, and community members, whether or not they are playing.

“This event is about bringing neighboring rural Nebraska communities together, showing some hometown pride, and enjoying a little friendly competition,' Willard said. “It also gives alumni who have moved away another reason to come back home and spend time in the communities that helped shape them.”

Teams may register or learn more about the event at lindsayeventcenter.com/page/ rivalry-reunion.

Alumni who would like to participate but are unable to attend on Aug. 8 are encouraged to complete a short survey to help determine the date for Rivalry Reunion in 2027. The survey is available at https://forms.gle/zYxtAGChBR6MAdZU8.

Sponsorship and event advertising opportunities are also available for businesses and organizations interested in supporting the event or promoting their business through on-site digital displays and signage. For more information, call (402) 428-3302 or email events@lindsayareade velopment.com.

The Lindsay Event Center extends its appreciation to the event’s platinum sponsors: Bank of Lindsay, Farmers Cooperative Association- Lindsay, Jacklyn Wiese of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate, and Lindsay Insurance Agency.

About the Lindsay Event Center The Lindsay Event Center is a multipurpose venue in Lindsay, Nebraska, featuring flexible event spaces, athletic facilities, meeting areas, and amenities designed to host tournaments, celebrations, community events, and regional gatherings throughout the year.

BC Health Center upgrades imaging

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Boone County Health Center has replaced its previous CT technology with the advanced Philips CT 5100 128-slice scanner in the Radiology Department. BCHC also updated other diagnostic imaging equipment this year as part of ongoing efforts to enhance imaging capabilities across the department.

The Philips CT 5100 uses advanced imaging technology with artificial intelligence (AI)supported workflow tools to help improve efficiency, support image quality, and streamline exams.

Its 128-slice capability allows for clearer, more detailed images to be captured in seconds, helping physicians diagnose faster and with greater precision.

For patients, this means a smoother experience while still delivering the detailed images needed for accurate diagnosis.

“With advanced imaging software built in, this system helps us work more efficiently, improve image quality, and make the experience easier and more comfortable for our patients,” said Radiology Technologist Pam Weeder.

AI is increasingly used in medical imaging to assist technologists with workflow, consistency, and image optimization, helping support accurate and timely results for providers and patients.

While the technology continues to advance, the Radiology team’s commitment to detail, communication, and compassionate care remains unchanged.

Patient comfort was also a key focus.

The CT 5100’s more open design helps reduce feelings of claustrophobia and makes imaging exams more comfortable for patients who may experience anxiety during procedures.

In addition to the new technology, several rooms in the Radiology Department have been updated to create a more welcoming and modern environment.

AAA: Nebraska, Iowa part of 5.1 million expected to travel for 4th of July

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500

AAA projects more than 5.1 million from the West North Central Region, which includes Nebraska and Iowa, will travel at least 50 miles from home for the Independence Day holiday travel period, which runs from Saturday, June 27 through Sunday, July 5. Most travelers will take to the road, with more than 4.3 million driving to their destinations. While driving and air travel numbers are down for the region, cruising and other modes of transportation are seeing strong growth.

While this year’s increase is modest compared to recent gains, it still sets a record for Fourth of July travel for the region, as strong consumer demand continues to offset higher travel costs.

“For many families, traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Vacations are one category where consumers are still willing to spend, even if that means cutting back on something else. With an extended holiday travel period, we expect busy roads, steady demand for flights, and continued interest in cruises across many parts of the country.”

Rather than staying home, many travelers are choosing to offset higher travel costs by:

• Taking shorter vacations

• Choosing destinations closer to home

• Closely comparing the cost of driving vs flying

• Planning a cruise or allinclusive resort where costs are more defined

• Cutting back on extras like eating out and souvenirs

This flexibility helps sustain overall travel volume, even when prices increase. For those who haven’t finalized their plans, it’s not too late to work with a travel agent to find last-minute options or savings.

Mode of Transportation By Car: AAA projects 61.4 million people will travel by car July 4th week, nearly the same number as last year when 61.3 million travelers took road trips. 85% of Americans traveling for Independence Day are expected to drive to their destinations.

Gas Prices: Given the recent volatility in gas prices, it’s too early to know what drivers should expect to pay at the pump. As of June 22, 2026, the Nebraska average is $3.66 per gallon, and Iowa residents are seeing an average of $3.53 per gallon, both decreases when compared to prices within the last month. Last year, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.15. In 2022, the national average was $4.80 on Independence Day. Visit GasPrices.AAA.com to view daily gas price averages.

By Air: More than 5.8 million travelers will take domestic flights over the July 4th week, a 0.2% increase over last year. Air travelers account for 8% of holiday travelers. According to AAA data, which is based on what travelers paid when they booked their Independence Day trips, round-trip domestic flights to top destinations like Chicago and Denver are 5% more expensive. Domestic flights overall are averaging about $830 a ticket.

By Other Modes: Travel by other modes is seeing the biggest year-over-year growth compared to car and air travel. AAA projects 4.93 million Americans will take buses, trains, and cruises over Independence Day week, a 5.3% increase from last year. This year is also expected to surpass 2019’s figure of 4.79 million travelers, due in large part to the post-COVID cruising boom. Travelers are drawn to cruise vacations because they know how much the trip will cost upfront, and the ship offers all-inclusive dining, various entertainment options, and multiple destinations.

Car Rentals: For travelers renting cars, AAA car rental partner Hertz expects Thursday, July 2 to be the busiest pickup day. Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, and New York City are the cities with the highest demand based on advanced bookings. According to AAA booking data, domestic car rentals are 10% more expensive this holiday week compared to last year. AAA members receive discounted car rental rates when booking with Hertz.

Party in Humphrey

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Humphrey Days delivers family fun in salute to country’s 250th

It was a true community celebration.

Humphrey Days, organized by the Humphrey Community Club, again delivered on family fun events that drew people of all ages to Humphrey.

Humphrey Days got off to a great start Saturday morning with the Veterans Memorial Fun Run.

“The 2026 vets run was a huge success,” organizer Aaron Korth said. “We had 143 race entries, the most we’ve had to date, and the weather was beautiful. A big thank you to all race participants, t-shirt donors and all the volunteers who helped. This is a really good fund-raiser for the Humphrey American Legion that continues to grow. I hope to see everyone again next year.”

Tess Frauendorfer, Humphrey Community Club treasurer, “Red, white and blue filled the streets as large crowds gathered for the annual Humphrey Days Parade, which this year proudly celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.

“Spectators lined the parade route waving flags and cheering as one festive entry after another passed by. The parade featured a wide variety of patriotic floats decorated with stars, stripes and tributes to the nation’s rich history. Tractors from mini’s to monsters were on display, representing their place in time. Horses also made an appearance adding a traditional touch that delighted parade-goers of all ages.

“Judges had the difficult task of selecting winners from among the many creative entries. Taking home first place honors was Z Last Electric with its outstanding patriotic display. Top Notch Electric earned second place, while the Archangels Cheer Squad captured third place with their energetic and spirited entry,” she said.

Following the parade, the Humphrey Fire Department cooked up some burgers and dogs in the Community Center parking lot — a lot of them.

They sold out of 450 burgers and 250 hot dogs. Many people stood in long lines to support them while enjoying some music and a beer garden.

“If you didn’t stick around, or come back for The Fish Heads, you missed a wide variety of great music and a crowd engaging band. They even had Humphrey’s own, Vivian, jump up on stage and perform a couple songs. The Community Club thanks them for a really fun evening and looks forward to seeing them again in the future,” Tessendorf said.

Jordan Schaecher organized the car show, which was a big hit.

Double-fisted. Sage Foltz picked up some candy at Saturday’s parade.

The car show again proved to be a popular part of Humphrey Days, drawing about 50 vehicles.

“Overall, I was very happy with how the car show turned out. The weather certainly played a role, with rain throughout much of the day, and attendance was down from last year, but we still had over 50 vehicles make the trip to Humphrey. Considering the conditions and other events happening around the area, I thought that was a very respectable turnout.

“More importantly, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We had a great variety of vehicles, a steady crowd, and a lot of positive feedback from participants and spectators. I’m thankful to everyone who came out, as well as our sponsors, volunteers, and the Humphrey Community Club for helping make it another successful year. We’re already looking forward to next year’s show.”

Marty Krings, Community Club president, praised those who worked to bring the event to Humphrey and those who enjoyed it.

“With that being said, from all of us Community Club members, we would like to say thank you to all of you who showed up for the Humphrey Days activities. Also, thank you to each and every donor and sponsor for helping us fund these family friendly events. And finally, to all of the volunteers who worked from sun-up to sun-down pouring in hours of preparation to make Humphrey Days what it is, thank you.”

Karsyn Frauendorfer is looking cool during the Humphrey Fire Department Burger Bash.

Layne Werner enjoys a hotdog at the Humphrey Fire Depart- ment Burger Bash.

Molly Wegener enjoyed Saturday’s parade.

Z Last Electric Float won the $250 prize as best float in the parade. The parade theme was “Party in the USA,” honoring the 250th year of independence.

The Humphrey Fire Department sold out of hotdogs and burgers at the Burger Bash.

Despite the rain, the car show was a big hit, and will make a return to next year's Humphrey Days.

Bank of the Valley celebrates 10th anniversary, renovated Humphrey branch with open house

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500

It was June 30, 2016, when Bank of the Valley opened the doors of their fifth full-service Branch location in Humphrey, Nebraska.

Farmers State Bank, a family owned bank that had served the Humphrey Community since 1915, was purchased by Bank of the Valley and joined Branch locations in Bellwood, David City, Platte Center and Columbus. This year Bank of the Valley celebrates its 10-year anniversary at their Humphrey Branch location, and reflects on their years of service to the community.

An open house event was held Wednesday, June 17, and all were treated to food, goodies, and give-aways. It was also an opportunity to let everyone in the community see the results of a major renovation project of the entire building’s interior that had wrapped up in March.

“We are so grateful for the trust and support the Community of Humphrey has given to us these last 10 years,” Humphrey Community President Eric Wemhoff, said. “We hope that with the many improvements that we’ve made to our facility this year, we can continue to be a strong financial partner to our customers and community for decades to come.”

Bank of the Valley is a Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lende

Take a dip

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 06:00:06 -0500

Humphrey Aquatic Center drawing swimmers from around the area

The Humphrey Aquatic Center is proving to be the place to be in the summer.

This is the third summer the Humphrey Aquatic Center has been operating.

Manager Allison Durkop said it’s been busy at the pool.

“We have had fantastic turnouts with people coming to swim this summer since opening on Memorial Day,” she said.

People in surrounding communities are also finding their way to the pool.

“Not only do the community members of Humphrey come and enjoy the pool, but we also have families who regularly come to swim from Columbus, Lindsay, Creston and other surrounding towns,” she said. “I’ve talked to patrons who come visit their families here in Humphrey during the summer, and they’ve shared with me that one of the things they look forward to the most is enjoying the pool. The weather this summer has been great for swimming. On average, our busiest days have been anywhere from 160 to 180 patrons or more coming to swim and enjoy the water.”

The number of season passes sold continues to be strong.

“This summer, about 75 family memberships have been purchased, which is right on track for where we were last year. There have even been quite a few single passes purchased. We always have a good number of patrons who purchase day passes each day, too,” Durkop said.

She also said swimming lessons have been popular.

“Another item to take note of is swim lessons. Private swim lessons (oneon-one instruction with the swimmer and a lifeguard) have been very popular this year compared to the last two years. We are on track to teach over 60 swimmers in private lessons this summer. We are still offering group swim lessons as well, and there are still many openings in each level.”

The next three sessions for group lessons will take place June 22-25, July 6-9, and July 20-23.

“The pool will open for Humphrey Days this weekend, and we are expecting a great turnout that day. The pool is also going to be open on the Fourth of July from Noon to 4 p.m.,” she said.

CCH has program to help children

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 06:00:05 -0500

A visit to the hospital is frightening for any child — but for one who is neurodivergent, it can be especially worrisome.

That’s why Columbus Community Hospital is creating a program especially for children who are on the autism spectrum, have a sensory processing disorder, have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or experience learning disabilities.

Sue Deyke, MSN, RN, CCH’s emergency director; Kayla Gehring, MBA, MSN, RN, the hospital’s surgical services director; and Cara Wieser, BSN, RN, a preadmissions nurse, have spent months researching different elements of the program.

Last fall, team members asked the CCH Foundation board for funds to support the new program, and the board approved. Using foundation funds, the team purchased a wide range of tools, including: Noise-canceling headphones, calming sensory lamps, fidget spinners and other fidget toys, weighted lap pads, bags with sunglasses, headphones and fidget devices for short visits, stress balls, sensory stones, whiteboard and markers.

Dr. Jenna Hesse part of group studying impact of A.I.

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 06:00:04 -0500

Over the past year, Dr. Jenna Hesse, of Humphrey, and Dr. Angela Johnson, assistant professors at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing Northern Division, as well as a few other researchers, have been studying the impact of artificial-intelligence-generated immersive virtual reality simulation on nursing students.

Their research originated from a commitment to advancing evidence-based innovation in nursing education. They wondered if there could be actual quantifiable data proving that AI-generated simulation education helps nursing students learn more efficiently and effectively.

There were 42 nursing students involved, the entire junior class at UNMC in Norfolk. Those students were evaluated at three checkpoints: Physical simulation performance (checkpoint 1), which became their baseline; the first AI-generated IVR simulation attempt (checkpoint 2); and the second AI-generated IVR simulation attempt (checkpoint 3) using the Creighton Competency Evaluation Instrument (C-CEI) and AI-generated data analytics. After that, the study assessed the students’ satisfaction with the simulation using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M).

“It was an evaluation of their growth in their critical thinking, clinical decision making and nursing skill proficiency levels,” Hesse said. “... Checkpoints one and two were one semester, checkpoint three was the next semester.”

The use of AI-focused learning at the UNMC Norfolk campus was driven by a commitment to expanding educational opportunities for nursing students. While students gain valuable hands-on experience through clinical placements, factors such as scheduling constraints, workforce demands and limited exposure to certain diverse patient scenarios can make it difficult to ensure every student encounters the same variety of experiences.

The research team recognized an opportunity to supplement traditional clinical education with innovative technology that could provide consistent, diverse and immersive learning experiences.

“A big thing in this rural area, we're having a hard time getting diverse clinical sites for nursing students for their clinicals, and so we had to come up with something,” Hesse said. “How can we have diverse patients, diverse settings for our students and build their competencies in those areas without having actual physical sites to do that?”

Simulation experiences also were enhanced with the addition of generative AI. Previously, virtual reality headset patient scenarios required one-on-one faculty facilitation. With AI-generated immersive virtual reality simulations, students can now participate in realistic, interactive clinical scenarios through a VR headset while maintaining faculty support throughout the learning process.

“The faculty had to sit and tell the patient how to respond to the nurse,” Hesse said. “… Now, I can input exactly the type of patient I want to create, including their health history, current condition, presentation and other characteristics. I can even specify whether the patient is anxious, calm, frustrated or exhibiting other behaviors, creating a more realistic and customizable learning experience.”

Their research findings suggest that the integration of AI has the potential to expand clinical learning opportunities within nursing and, according to their paper, “may support stronger student preparedness for professional nursing clinical practice.”

Among UNMC’s five nursing campuses, the Norfolk campus has been one of the leaders in integrating AI-generated immersive virtual reality simulation into nursing education. The program is now being expanded across all five campuses.

Their research was published in the Journal of Professional Nursing through Elsevier following the completion of the study. The publication represents an important milestone for the research team and highlights the innovative nursing education research being conducted right here at UNMC College of Nursing in Norfolk. Hesse and Johnson hope it is the first of many future research contributions that will continue to advance nursing education and student learning.

“We're helping lead innovative simulation technology experiences for nursing students, and there is still limited research in this area, which is one of the reasons we wanted to study it,” Hesse said. “It's exciting to see Norfolk, a rural community, helping lead the way in AI-driven simulation technology and nursing education.”

UNMC College of Nursing dean Dr. Lepaine Sharp-McHenry agreed. “The research conducted by our faculty exemplifies our commitment to advancing evidence-based innovation. By exploring the impact of artificial intelligencegenerated immersive virtual reality simulations, we are not only enhancing the learning experience for our nursing students but also equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape. This work holds the potential to revolutionize how we educate the next generation of nurses, ensuring they are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and competence.”

The research team began by piloting the program through a trial period. After demonstrating positive outcomes through their research, they chose to invest in the platform for ongoing use. The technology is now being implemented across the UNMC College of Nursing, allowing current and future nursing students to benefit from AI-generated immersive virtual reality simulation experiences.

Now, UNMC is nearing simulation accreditation, a nationally recognized distinction that reflects excellence in simulation-based education.

“It's a prestigious accreditation that very few programs achieve nationwide, and it recognizes a commitment to high-quality simulation experiences and best practices,” Hesse said. “We're working hard to be innovative in our delivery of simulation. AI is such an emerging area that we believe it will have a major impact on simulation in the coming years, so we wanted to be at the forefront of artificial intelligence-generated simulation as well.”

Next up for Hesse and Johnson is continuing to expand research in AI-generated simulation. Future studies will evaluate student communication skills within simulation scenarios and examine outcomes associated with a multi-patient simulation initiative being implemented in collaboration with faculty across all five UNMC College of Nursing campuses.

UNMC’s Norfolk campus is leading the way in both AI-generated and immersive realityfocused nursing education.

“We're really focused on staying at the forefront and being a leader in simulation, especially when it comes to emerging AI-generated simulation technologies,” Hesse said. “We want UNMC to be recognized as a leader in this space, and conducting this research is helping us move that vision forward.”