Peter and Paul Catholic Church Parish Life Center in St. Paul.

Doors are scheduled to open at 9:00 a.m. The walk starts at 10:00 a.m.

There will be the Mexcellent Food Truck, a live auction, bake sale, and raffles. Among the raffle items are Husker items, Riddles Jewelry, T-shirts, Hornaday, baskets, and more! Not only will the event be a funfilled outing, but funds raised will go towards the mission of finding a cure.

Huntington’s disease affects members in the community and local families. Those interested in viewing the raffle items ahead of time can go to Central Nebraska Walk of Hope on Facebook.

Last Wednesday, when Sherman County Election Commissioner Sasha Habe certified the results of the May 12th Primary Election in Sherman County, there were some cards involved.

Following a tie in the race to represented District 2 on the Sherman County Board of Commissioners, the two candidates— Kenny Kaslon and Darnell P.

Janulewicz—were tasked with deciding the winner by lots.

Habe had elected to have the two candidates draw cards, with the high card winning. After laying out ten cards, Habe said she would count to three and the two candidates would flip their cards over.

Janulewicz drew a seven and Kaslon had a four, leading to Janulewicz winning the seat.

Habe reported that, following the draw, the election results were certified in Sherman County.

Sure, he defeated an incumbent, Lincoln attorney Bob Evnen, who was seeking a third, four-year term. His office runs our state elections and handles several different tasks, like registering corporations.

More than a couple of things were working in Petersen’s favor.

First off, Petersen appeared to mount a more aggressive campaign. His fourby- eight foot campaign signs appeared everywhere around eastern Nebraska where I travel. There were few Evnen signs in the down-ballot race where yard signage is important.

“Petersen” is a pretty popular name to run with in a Nebraska election, like “Nelson” or “Anderson.” Everyone knows someone with those names.

Remember former Attorney General Doug Peterson? He was a very good trial attorney, but having the name “Peterson” helped him win a crowded GOP primary.

And, in a Republican primary, fewer people vote, and those who do are more conservative.

That was pretty evident the last time Evnen ran. He managed only forty percent of the vote in the GOP primary against two, more conservative candidates in 2022. That was enough to win, but far from a show of strength.

Petersen, whose prior election experience included a losing run for Douglas County Clerk in 2020, touted himself as a “conservative leader” and the “America First” candiidea date (i.e. fully aligned with President Donald Trump) who would “restore trust” in state elections.

Petersen is part of the crowd who thinks we ought to return to hand counting of ballots (instead of a machine count) and who question whether Trump lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden.

Like the bogey man in a horror film, the that Trump really won in 2020 just won’t die. That’s despite dozens of failed lawsuits challenging the election results and the lack of any evidence that Biden didn’t win. He won, something that Trump has admitted privately.

I guess if you say “the sky isn’t blue” enough times, some people will believe that it isn’t blue.

State and local election officials in Nebraska, including Evnen, have consistently defended the ballot-counting systems now in place as safe and secure—and much less costly than hand counting.

Studies have indicated that hand counting is 1.5 to 1.8 times less accurate than the optical scanning machines now used.

Lancaster County Election Chief Todd Wiltgen has said that hand-counted audits of votes tallied by machine in his county have shown “zero deviation” (i.e. 100 percent accuracy).

Back in 2022, I remember hearing members of a self-appointed posse called “The Nebraska Voter Accuracy Project” insisting, at a legislative hearing, that there was no way Trump could have lost in Omaha’s congressional district in 2020. That, they said, was because another Republican, United States Representative Don Bacon. had won there.

Hmm. My recollection was that by 2020, voters had grown weary of Trump’s daily, social media rants, and were seeking calmer, less chaotic leadership. Bacon, meanwhile, was a popular congressman who had won before in his district, which is pretty evenly split between Democrats and Republicans.

The election deniers kept insisting that the state’s ballot counting computers had been hacked. But that conveniently ignored the fact that the ballot counting equipment is not connected to the internet.

Again, don’t forget: The sky isn’t blue.

Almost all of the state’s elected officials supported Evnen including Bacon, who said Petersen aligned himself with “crazies” and was the “president of the tinfoil hat club.”

That didn’t seem to matter. Evnen lost to Petersen by nearly 17,000 votes.

Some media speculated that Petersen’s victory might give a Democrat an opening to take the Secretary of State’s seat.

That seems like a long shot—a Democrat hasn’t served in that office for eighty-five years. The Democrat who won the May primary, Plattsmouth-area chef Sarah Slattery, has little name recognition outside of her area (where she lost a 2022 race for the state legislature and led a recall campaign that ousted a local school board member who wanted to ban dozens of books).

I wonder if she wishes her name was “Peterson?” Paul Hammel has covered the Nebraska state government and the state for decades. Prior to his retirement, he was senior contributor with the Nebraska Examiner. He was previously with the Omaha World-Herald, Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha Sun. A native of Ralston, Nebraska, he loves traveling and writing about the state.

He, on the other hand, was in no hurry. He was sitting, watching, and waiting.

That is when I came driving by on a Friday afternoon in late July last summer. I was in no hurry, only anxious to get home. He was charged with keeping law and order in Grant County, and from his pickup truck parked under a shade tree on the side of Nebraska Highway 2, there is no doubt that he saw me and saw how fast I was going.

Thankfully, we never met, and just like that, Hyannis was in my rearview mirror.

Anyone who has ever traveled along Highway 2 through the Sandhills of Nebraska knows that it is not only one of the most scenic drives in the state—the unique beauty of the Sandhills is unmatched— but that it is also a trip that takes some time, with the only thing dividing up the long stretches of highway being small hamlets, burgs, and villages.

You know when you get to a larger community—Hyannis, Mullen, and Thedford are among the main stops—but as soon as you arrive, in some cases the village is already fading behind you.

For most travelers, these towns are just pit stops on the journey, for others, they are the destination, and for some, they are home.

I was reminded of this fact earlier this week when I was informed that Sharon Wheelock, publisher of the Grant County News in Hyannis, had passed away. I had never met Wheelock, but in rural Nebraska, our little club is pretty small. What caught my attention in the announcement shared with me was that Wheelock had published the Grant County newspaper for fifty years before her passing. She died shortly after printing her biggest issue of the year, the newspaper’s annual Salute to Beef Producers.

While the news hit home for a couple of reasons— among them was the frightening realization that I too could pass away one day still publishing my weekly newspaper— the main thing that I thought of was all the work that Wheelock had to invest into publishing a newspaper in one of the top ten least populous counties in the United States.

In small cities or large towns, finding news to fill all the pages can sometimes be a tall task. How she spent fifty years generating headlines in the heart of rural America, I will never know.

However, what I do know is that she made it work, and each week, for five decades, she put out a newspaper. In fact, she published an award-winning publication, having won multiple awards for her work from the Nebraska Press Association.

Later that week, the membership of the Nebraska Press Association was notified that a former publisher from the far reaches of the state—Elna Johnson of Imperial—had passed away. Johnson, who I had met on one occasion, was a key part of the newspaper community for many years, and her family still remains active in the industry today.

Like Wheelock, she too oversaw award-winning publications in a rural corner of the state, and Nebraska is a better place today because of her work and the legacy she leaves behind.

No matter if they publish papers in Chase County or Grant County or anywhere in between, people like Wheelock and Johnson are dedicated to their communities and their craft. While we mourn their passing, there is some comfort for people in my line of work knowing that, for decades, people have been plugging away to publish the news in all corners of the state.

While the newspaper presses will continue to roll, figuratively, in Imperial, Wheelock’s death seems to have created a state of uncertainty for the future of the Grant County News.

In a place where there is a chance the newspaper has more subscribers than there are residents of the county, and in a part of the Cornhusker State that has been the epicenter of some devastating headlines concerning the impact that wildfires can have on rural America, local news—actually news of any kind—remains imperative.

In Hyannis, the possibility of losing their only local news source is likely an urgent concern. That concern, no matter if you live in the middle of the Nebraska Sandhills or ten minutes from the state’s tallest buildings, is one we all should share.

As the recent primary election illustrated, access to local news is important, as decisions made on the local level can have widespread repercussions on our lives.

Sure, sometimes you may not care about the score of Thursday night’s basketball game or the actions taken by the local city council, but, when you need to know something important—say, just how fast someone was going as they exited Hyannis and continued east—then there is no better outlet than your local newspaper.

Sharon Wheelock realized it, Elna Johnson realized it, and I hope you do too.

Students who are on the dean’s list must have completed twelve credit hours or more of classes with a 3.5 grade-point average or better on a 4.0 scale.

Students earn a 4.0 for an “A,” 3.0 for a “B” and 2.0 for a “C.”

Courses taken on a credit/no credit basis—such as internships and student teaching—aren’t included among the necessary twelve credits.

Area students on the list include: Ansley: John Isaac Leiting and Peyton Henry.

Litchfield: Jeffrey Robinson.

Loup City: Aleia Friesen, Brandi Hruby, Kailey Lillian Goc, and Olivia Fitzgerald.

Ravenna: Addy Treffer, Erica Lockhorn, Joshua Matthew Abels, Matti Lyions, and McKenzie Marie Greenland.

Remembering the dead is more than looking backward with sorrow; it is an act of love, gratitude, and faith. The people who once walked beside us do not simply disappear from our hearts when their earthly lives end.

Their words linger in our minds, their examples shape our choices, and their love continues to influence the way we live. In quiet moments, God often uses memory to remind us that every life carries eternal value.

Throughout Scripture, God’s people paused to remember those who came before them. They honored fathers, mothers, prophets, and faithful servants whose lives testified to God’s goodness.

Remembering the dead helps us recognize that we are part of a larger story of faith. Others prayed before us, sacrificed before us, and trusted God through trials long before we faced our own.

Grief can feel heavy and confusing.

Some days memories bring comfort; other days they reopen wounds we thought had healed. Yet God does not ask us to hide our sadness. Jesus Himself wept at the tomb of Lazarus, showing that mourning and faith can exist together. Tears are not evidence of weak belief; they are evidence of deep love. When we remember those who have died, we should also thank God for what they gave us.

A grandmother’s prayers, a friend’s encouragement, a parent’s sacrifice, or a spouse’s devotion can continue bearing fruit long after death. Their impact remains alive in the hearts they touched.

At the same time, remembering the dead teaches us to live wisely. Life is brief, and every day is a gift from God. The memories we leave behind will become part of someone else’s story one day. That truth should encourage us to forgive quickly, love generously, and walk faithfully with Christ.

Today, bring your memories before the Lord. Speak the names of those you miss. Thank God for their lives, and trust Him with your grief.

In Christ, death is not the end of the story.

Hope still lives, and love is never wasted.

With a little advanced planning campers and park-goers can find their perfect site for memorable outdoor experiences all summer long.

Nebraska state parks offer both reservation- only spots and firstcome, first-served ones.

Find a park, plan a trip or make a reservation at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

There you also can use the “Find a Park” tool to discover parks with amenities or activities that match your interests.

If your preferred dates at a particular park are not available, the website’s “Make a Reservation” tool allows you to sign up to be notified if cancellations occur. You also can see available openings for the coming weekend.

Permit first: Skip the kiosk and buy your Nebraska Vehicle Park Entry Permit before you get to the park. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov, at statewide Nebraska Game and Parks offices and permit vendors.

This permit is required of each vehicle entering a Nebraska state park.

Once you’ve popped your tent or parked your recreation vehicle, follow these Nebraska Game and Parks reminders to keep camping fun and safe this summer:

• Know before you go: Ongoing drought conditions persist in Nebraska, causing the need for temporary campfire bans in some parks.

•Arrive early: Consider arriving early in the week to claim a firstcome, first-served site that meets your needs.

• Wear life jackets: When boating, paddleboarding or swimming wear a personal floatation device.

• Pack a fishing pole: Fishing is fun for all ages. Youth ages 16 and under don’t need a permit to fish.

• Be weather aware: Check the forecast and stay aware of changing conditions.

June 1, 2016

The Loup City Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a farewell and appreciation party for Dr. Barrett.

Janae Baker, a 2003 Loup City High School graduate, graduated from Creighton University with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

Superintendent Blake Dahlberg met with parents, students, and district patrons to explain the changes coming to Loup City Schools next fall. The third grade will now be located in the middle school and Loup City fifth and sixth grade students will no longer be required to take band.

Jennell “Nellie” Campbell, dental hygienist at Loup City Dental, was named the 2015-2016 Dental Hygienist of the Year by the Nebraska Dental Hygienist Association.

The County Commissioners proceedings noted Duane Mieth was appointed as a member of the Sherman County Veteran’s Board for a five year term.

Ella Jaixen and De-Lynn Day were pictured performing their duet “Fly” at the Sunday afternoon guitar recital held at the high school gym.

May 31, 2006

A special parade will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday to celebrate the St. Josaphat’s Catholic Church’s 125th anniversary. The parade will start at 9th and O Streets east of the Fredrick Hotel. Father Lou will be riding in a Model T followed by the churches Polish Days float entry and several convertibles carrying pioneers of the church.

The paper reported the Polish Days children’s water fight was cancelled because of an insurance issue. The 2006 Polish Days melodrama is titled “Dirty Work on the Trail.”

Over seventy ladies attended the Spring Tea held at the Mason City Baptist Church. Ann Holm opened the program, Donna Johnson read an eight year old boys prayer and Loretta Lovitt, Jill Rohdes and Ann Holm read humorous stories. Sandwiches and sherbet was served after the program.

Stanley and Doris Kosmicki will celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversary with a meal with their immediate family.

The Raider golf team struggled at the State tournament finishing fourteenth out of fifteen teams. Lucas Obermiller led Raiders scorers with a total of 106.

A special 100th birthday party will be held next Sunday at the Loup City Community Center to honor Ruth Obermiller. The county commissioner proceedings reported Eldon Kieborz was reappointed to the CNCS Board of Directors.

The Arcadia Hotline reported Connie Anderson was hostess for the Red Hat Ladies Tuesday morning brunch. Ladies attending were Delores Hendricks, Shirley Peterson, Lola Staab, Marge Ash, and Leah George.

Mason City School kindergarten graduates are Riley Racicky and Sarah Lewis. Jason Litchenberger was the only eighth grade graduate and was pictured with his teacher Esther Yeats.

May 25, 1996

Over eighty people attended the Loup City Mother’s Day Tea. Prizes were awarded to the oldest mother, Sally Kaminski; mother with the most children, Marcella Jablonski; mother with the most grandchildren, Catherine Kuszak; mother with the most daughters, Mary Obermiller; and mother with the most sons, Loreen Czaplewski.

Retiring Loup City High School teacher and coach Dennis Lindquist was presented a gift from the faculty by Loup City Education Association president Dayle Klein at a ceremony following the end of the year faculty carry in dinner. Lindquist taught twenty-eight years in the Loup City Schools and three for Ashton.

The Raider golf team finished fifth at the state tournament. Dave Young led scoring with a twoday total of 162, good for an eighth-place medal.

Sylvia Jakubowski entertained the Jolly Time Card Club Tuesday afternoon. Rose Smolla was the high scorer, Esther Krakowski was low, and Lillian Thomsen took home the traveling prize.

Alex and Julie Shotkoski celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary with a Sunday afternoon open house at St. Josaphat’s Parish Center.

Local firemen attending the annual Nebraska State Fire School were Elmer Iske Jr. of Loup City, Steve Einspahr and Don Scott of Arcadia, and Gary Zoerb of Mason City.

Stanley and Doris Kosmicki held an open house Sunday afternoon at St. Frances Hall to celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversary.

Jedediah C. Joshua C., and Magdelena R. Sekutera have joined the American Maine Anjou Association.

June 29, 1986

Beth Lonowski was elected 1986-87 Loup City Parent Teacher Organization president. Other officers elected were Pat Setlik, Cindy McCarville, and Pam Treffer.

Bob and Dorie Beitler have resigned their Loup City Schools teaching positions to take teaching jobs in the Heston, Kansas school district.

Loup City track athlete Mitch McCartney has to wait until the end of the track season to find out he was the winner of the Golden Spike Award. Rod Kalkowski was named the most improved runner. Judene Krolikowski was the outstanding girls track athlete and Lori Barent the most improved runner.

Cindy Gappa was hostess for a baby shower for Thomas Rueben Jerabek on Sunday afternoon. Games were played after the gifts were opened and Mary Skibinski won the door prize.

Susan Williams held a birthday party Friday afternoon at the Rockville park to honor her son Matt’s fourth birthday.

Ed LeFever won a gold medal at the Class D State Track Meet in the shot put with a toss of 52-10.5, his “best throw ever.”

Rojean Arnold is taking on the Litchfield Times column for the summer as Florence Bennett is leaving for her summer camp job in Wyoming.

Kulwicki’s 325-pound black steers brought 69.50 at the Tuesday Loup City Livestock, Inc. sale.

Sacred Heart Hospital employee Marge Guzinski was pictured talking to an instructor who was presenting the “Nurses as Supervisors” workshop held this past week at the hospital.

May 27, 1976

Mitch and Melissa Arnold were pictured holding flowers in preparation for Memorial Day.

Loup City High School earth science and chemistry teacher Caroline Winchester’s resignation was accepted by the school board. Lawrence Burman has been hired to teach her classes.

Loup City sixth grade student Cynthia Piontkowski was selected as the overall Loup City American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Poster contest winner.

Official weather reporter Eldon Bass reported 2.83 inches of rain had fallen in the last five days.

New members of the Loup City High School National Honor Society are Vicki Leonard, Jon Sekutera, Pam Piechota, Theresa Schuett, Susan King, Greg Harmon, Christy Maciejewski, and Kevin Fulton.

Ellen Charlton, Lucille Plants, Virginia Phelps, Jon Baillie and Ken Jensen honored Deb Fletcher with a patio supper at the home of Don Phelps Wednesday evening as a way of thanking her for her help with the music at the United Methodist Church.

The auction of Loup City author Meroe Owens estate is Monday.

The 1976 officers of the Arcadia women’s softball team are Donna Pierson, Margaret Brown, and Jo Ann Scott.

The Lucky 13 Club met at the Rockville home of Mrs. Duane Mieth Thursday to elect new officers. Mrs. Leo Treffer was elected president. Other elected officers are Mrs. Duane Mieth and Mrs. Jerry Dethlefs.

The Tri-Valley Equipment ad read, “The Polish horse traders will trade for anything” and “Would you believe it, they even sell and service engines and pivots.” Ken “Loefelbeinski” and Al “Lindgrenski” ran the ad.

The Sherman County Supervisors voted to approve giving the Federal Aviation Administration a “conveyance road” to the proposed site for the new radar beacon station being located north of Rockville.

June 2, 1966

Dan Morrow, Jim, Ed and Tom Stanczyk, Joe and Dennis Kuszak, Frank Jonak, Ted Koperski, and Jim Hurt brought their tractors and equipment to the Justin Kuszak place to put in his milo crop and disc. Kuszak has been ill and unable to do his work.

Mrs. Don Burmood reported to the paper their son Sgt. Don Burmood is recovering from wounds suffered in combat in Vietnam. Another son, Daniel Burmood, reached the U.S. May 11th from Vietnam and has been honorably discharged.

Over 600 people attended the Loup City High School Alumni Banquet.

The editor reported local farmers and ranchers are getting nervous about the lack of rain. Less than half of the normal amount of moisture has fallen so far this year. The last two weeks have been warm with several days with highs in the 90’s.

Thirty-five ladies from the Rockville area have enrolled in Mrs. Gladys McDonald’s home nursing class. Colleen Mieth was pictured in the paper posing as a patient in one of the classes.

The editor was angry about the proposed minimum wage legislation coming out of Washington noting, “The lawmakers can tell you what you have to pay, but they can’t make you hire”.

“The Drifters” of radio station KOMA fame, are playing Oscar’s Palladium in Sargent.

Owner Billy B. Day advertised over 1000 hogs and 600 cattle were sold at the last Loup City Livestock Co sale.

Loup City swimming pool children’s summer passes are priced at $10.

Sheryl Hiser of Litchfield and Paula Charlton and Judy Powers of Loup City will study music at the All State High School Course at the University from June 12th to June 30th.

St. Frances Parochial School eighth grade graduates are Richard Badura, James Dooley, Tim Eurek, Jerome Moraczewski, Ron Tenski, Oliver Starkey, Tom Wojtelewicz, Carol Kaslon, Patricia Ksionzek, and Collette Stanczyk.

We all get angry anger is a natural and useful emotion as it lets us know that something needs to change. It is how we deal with our anger that gives the emotion a bad reputation. Children learn how to deal with anger by watching the adults in their lives, so it is important to learn how to express anger in appropriate ways. Here are some things parents can do to help children express anger effectively: 1. Anger is a natural emotion Let children know that it’s OK to feel angry, but it’s not OK to hurt someone because you are angry.

2. Teach children to use their words Young children may not have the words to express how they feel. Help children learn how to express their anger by giving them words to say, like “I don’t like it when you…” 3. Acknowledge your child’s anger Let your child know that you understand his or her anger or frustration. Validate feelings by saying something like “I see you are very angry.”

4. Encourage your child to share feelings Teach your child to recognize and talk about angry feelings in a positive way. Give your child your full attention and help them by having them repeat your words. You could say something like “It really made me mad when you…” 5. Be a good role model Show your child appropriate ways to deal with anger through your own behaviors. What you do may be more important than what you say.

6. Help your child calm down Teach your child some ways to calm down when angry. For a young child, redirect his or her attention to another activity. For older children, try having them draw or write down their feelings.

7. Set clear limits Let your child know what behavior is acceptable when he or she is angry and what behavior is not acceptable.

8. Focus on good behaviors Reward your child with attention and acknowledgement when he or she deals with anger in a positive way.

9. Use empathy Think about how your child may be thinking and feeling, and look at the situation from your child’s point of view.

10. Teach through books Read children’s books to your child on dealing with angry feelings. A couple of good anger books include: “When Sophie Gets Angry - Really, Really Angry” by Molly Bang “I Was So Mad” by Mercer Mayer

Two candidates tie during last week’s May primary

In multiple races last Tuesday, voters in Sherman County made their voices heard during Nebraska’s May 12th Primary Election.

However, even after the votes had been counted, one Sherman County race remained undecided.

“In Commissioner District 2, we had a tie,” said Sherman County Election Commissioner Sasha Habe on Friday.

In that race, Kenny Kaslon and Darnell P. Janulewicz both received seventy votes in their quest to receive the Republican Party’s nomination for the District 2 seat on the Sherman County Board of Commissioners. With no Democrat having filed for that seat, the winner in the primary will win the seat for the next four years.

Habe noted that, Nebraska State Statute outlines how her office is to handle the tie, with the final verdict to be decided by chance.

Initially, Habe said, both candidates will be invited to watch the automatic recount of the votes in that race. The recount is triggered by state statute, and will be conducted when the Sherman County canvassing board meets. The county’s canvassing board was tentatively scheduled to meet on Wednesday, May 20th.

If the race remains tied after the recount— Habe said she had no reason to believe the totals would change—Nebraska Revised Statute § 32-1122 dictates that the tie is to be broken “by lot.”

“We could do a coin flip or a deck of cards, I just happen to have a deck of cards that are unopen, so we will crack them open,” Habe said.

After the recount, if the tie remains, the election commissioner said that both candidates will draw cards and the high card wins.

During an interview on Friday, Habe joked that she had chosen to have the candidates draw cards as “arm-wrestling wasn’t an option,” adding that the candidates themselves, when notified, had suggested “thumb-wrestling” or “rock, paper, scissors.”

Habe said that, regarding the tie, both Kaslon and Janulewicz were in good spirits about the situation.

On Sunday, I did something that I hadn’t done for many, many years.

I walked into a graduation ceremony, not as a reporter looking for the perfect story or the perfect photograph, but as a graduate’s family member, there simply to celebrate a major milestone in a relative’s life.

After having attended five other graduation ceremonies in the last two weeks, it was a refreshing feeling. I commented on the music, applauded for the graduates, and eagerly watched the time tick by.

After all, even as a spectator I didn’t want the celebration to last too long.

As I walked out of the gymnasium after just forty-two minutes—it was the biggest class I had seen graduate and one of the shortest ceremonies I had attended—I was struck by one thing.

Amid all the differences between end-of-academic career celebrations, one thing was the same.

A community came together to celebrate.

Whether you are in a tiny town, or a big city, every place has a unique sense of community. Sometimes, I think it is easy for people—especially those who aren’t overly involved or integrated into the places they call home or the organizations they are members of—to forget the power of their particular tribe.

Then, at specific moments, we are reminded.

Such was the case later that day.

After a devastating tornadic storm rolled through Howard County, the community rallied to lend a helping hand.

Sure, the videos and photographs on social media and the highways clogged with storm chasers were a quick reminder that the meteorological community is a growing gaggle of storm enthusiasts, all with cameras rolling. However, those individuals also reminded us that, in this world, we are lucky to have friends, neighbors, and willing strangers that step in, no matter our situation, and are there to lend a hand.

Early last week, as residents of the Cornhusker State were going to the polls, I had a chance to witness the vote happening up close and in person.

After I voted at my precinct— when you live in such a rural part of the county, there are no lines and no one to rub elbows with within the voting booth—I took off to cover the vote happening in other places around my coverage area.

It was in gymnasiums, community centers, and auditoriums that I not only witnessed the bedrock of our democracy, but also got a glimpse into the many ways that members of multiple, unique communities interact.

When voters approached the poll workers, they weren’t just speaking with election officials; they were greeting friends, family members, and neighbors.

Those workers had helped run an election, but they had also provided a service and had reminded visitors to the polls that they are part of a special community.

Then, late in the week, on Friday night, under the shade trees on the courthouse lawn in Loup City, I had the chance to see community in a different light.

It was a chance to witness a community come together and have some fun.

In a special event that was meant to celebrate the start of summer in a small town, there were kids and adults of all ages that turned out to not only enjoy the free sno cones, but also each other’s company.

I tell people often that, while I have the chance to cover big events that happen in the areas we serve routinely— think graduation ceremonies and the aftermath of severe weather—one of my favorite parts of being a local journalist is getting the chance to experience events that celebrate the places we call home in a less ceremonial way.

Jenga, popcorn, and music in front of the courthouse on a Friday night are one of the best ways I can think of to celebrate the love we have for our neighbors, and the pride we have in our community.

Returning to the storm that slammed the area on Sunday, in the aftermath, the best attributes of community were again displayed. Not only did first responders from across the area respond to the emergency, but so did volunteers who helped those impacted by the storms. There aren’t many better ways that a community can show its true colors than in a situation such as that.

Over the last few weeks, I have learned a lot of important life lessons from the myriad commencement speakers that I have heard. From life tips—speakers talked about the importance of calling your mother, getting enough sleep, and, of course, chasing your dreams—to inspirational messages, as a whole, the speakers knocked it out of the park.

However, while sitting in those high school gymnasiums, the one lesson that I was reminded of more than anything else is that we are lucky.

Every so often, you’re reminded that people are generally good.

And, you get some idea how important the media is in helping generate good news.

My latest refresher came via a story I wrote for the Nebraska Examiner, an online news site that used to consume most of my labors.

It involved a woman I met when writing for the Omaha World-Herald about the tiny village of Whiteclay, where four beer stores were selling more than three million cans of beer a year to residents of the nearby Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

The Pine Ridge is one of the poorest areas in the United States. Alcohol possession and sales are banned there, officially, but alcoholism is rampant. Whiteclay— the closest, legal outlet for alcohol—was the reservation’s liquor store.

Reporters, like me, wrote stories until we were blue in the face about the drunken street people who urinated and passed out along the highway running through Whiteclay.

It was a pathetic sight, something you’d think you wouldn’t see in our country or state. But little changed in Whiteclay until we wrote stories about Nora Boesem.

Boesem, a former nurse, served as a foster parent for dozens of Native American kids afflicted with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, a set of often profound physical and mental handicaps caused by drinking during pregnancy.

We’re talking about kids who couldn’t walk and couldn’t speak words, who had major deformities, shortened lifespans and had cognitive development of preschoolers.

“Nora’s a saint,” one person told me, for taking in high-need kids that few others would. She ended up adopting several.

Anyway, upon hearing that Boesem was in dire financial straits due to a divorce, a wreck with an uninsured motorists, a cutback in government aid, and mounting medical bills for her now-fourteen adoptees, I picked up my reporter notebook and wrote a story.

The reaction blew me away, and reduced Boesem to tears. Within six hours of the story’s posting, $12,000 had been donated to a GoFundMe account started by a friend of Boesem’s.

As I write this, eight days later after the story ran in other publications, donations are nearing $29,000.

There are still good people in this world.

That’s the same reaction some of our Nebraska ranchers had this spring when they saw semi-loads of hay bales driving to their ranches, blackened by historic wildfires.

“People were just tearful,” said Jason Christensen of Crusty’s Feed Store in Arthur, where some donations were received. “They were humble and overtaken with emotion.”

Christensen said his store alone saw 700 semi-loads of hay arrive from as far away as Texas, Tennessee, and South Carolina. There were also ten donated truckloads of protein tubs. It was maybe half or a third of what was donated overall to fire victims in the state, he estimated.

“It’s a ‘thanks is not enough’ kind of deal,” Christensen said.

You often hear the same reaction after countless local chili feed fundraisers for families stressed by the pricey bills of treating a family member’s cancer.

In the news business, we often don’t know what, if any, impact was generated by a story.

But it’s good to know that stories, like the ones about Nora Boesem, and others about the state’s fire-ravaged ranches, can still have an impact.

It’s also another reminder of how important a local newspaper, news site or a TV or radio station can be in spreading the word about people in need, people who need some help.

Because there’s still good people out there.

Paul Hammel has covered the Nebraska state government and the state for decades. Prior to his retirement, he was senior contributor with the Nebraska Examiner. He was previously with the Omaha World-Herald, Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha Sun. A native of Ralston, Nebraska, he loves traveling and writing about the state.

The Loup City community also received a certificate of recognition for being a Premier Blood Partner after collecting 201 units in 2025.

A total of thirty-one units were collected at the May 13th drive, just short of the goal of thirty- two units. The next blood drive is scheduled for July 8, 2026, at the Loup City Community Center.

Donna Trompke provided homemade cookies, and cupcakes were also served for the celebration. FBLA students assisted with signing in donors and scheduling appointments for the next blood drive.

First-time donors were Cooper Spotanski and Tom Kowalski.

Those donating blood included Jeffery Haight, Allan Zoila, Daryl Kuszak, Robert Ksionzek, Tamara Kuehl, Peggy Mroczek, Gary Kuszak, Eldon Adams, Michael Hill, Shawn Damratowski, Brenda Jerabek, Vivian Damratowski, Mark Higgins, Dominik Barnes, Gerard Larchick, Debra Obermiller, Ed Yonkers, Daniel Stanczyk, Thaddeus Harris, Grace Augustan, Melissa Kapustka, Sharlene McClary, Richard Dethlefs, James Ritz, Jami Spotanski, Taralee Baker, Lucinda Ryan, Kody Sundermeier, Lisa Harrington, George McFadden, Nickcole Hawkins, Kelli Loos, Marcia Kaslon, Debora Smedra, Tina Chilewski and Carl Spotanski.

In Loup City, American Legion Burrows Post 48 will hold a ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery beginning at 10:30 a.m.

The legion post’s color guard will advance the colors prior to participating troops entering the cemetery. Among those set to participate will be the Burrows Post 48 members, members of the Veterans of Foreign Wards, American Legion Auxiliary members, and members of the Sons of the American Legion.

Legion Post Commander Chuck Radtke will provide the welcome and lead the Pledge of Allegiance, after which Bria Kowalski will sing the national anthem.

Father Ryan Durham of Grace Baptist Church will provide the invocation, followed by the Memorial Day address by Radtke.

Kathleen Obermiller, president of the American Legion Auxiliary, will lead the remembrance, followed by a Roll Call of the Deceased by Cody Chilewski of the Sons of the American Legion.

Members of the American Legion and Sons of the American Legion will place the wreaths, after which, the Burrows Post 48 Color Guard will provide the firing squad salute.

Kylee Zulkoski will play Taps, after which, Bria Kowalski will sing “God Bless America.”

Father Durham will lead the benediction, with the colors to be retired by the Loup City Legion Post 48 Color Guard.

In case of rain, the legion advises that the services will be held in the Loup City Community Center at 803 O Street.

Cemetery preparation will take place on Saturday, May 23rd at 6:00 a.m., with legion members to set the flags and place the flowers on the graves of the area’s veterans.

On Memorial Day, veterans are asked to meet at the Legion Club at 9:30 a.m. wearing their veterans caps and/or uniforms. Flags will be taken down at 4:30 p.m. on Memorial Day.

Trials have a way of stripping life down to its essentials. In moments of pain, uncertainty, and disappointment, it can feel as though the ground beneath us is shifting. Yet throughout Scripture, we are reminded that God often does His greatest work in the middle of life’s hardest seasons.

The Bible never promises a life free from hardship. In fact, Jesus Himself warned believers that trials would come. But He also promised that we would never face them alone. In Isaiah 41:10, God says, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee.” Those words are not just poetic comfort; they are a declaration of God’s steady presence when everything else feels unstable.

Sometimes surviving a trial does not look heroic. Sometimes it simply means getting up one more day, praying one more prayer, or trusting God when answers do not come quickly. Faith is often strengthened not on the mountaintop, but in the valley. James 1:2-3 reminds us, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” God can use hardship to shape endurance, wisdom, and deeper dependence on Him.

When we walk through suffering, we are tempted to believe God has forgotten us. Yet the cross itself proves otherwise. Jesus understands sorrow, betrayal, and pain. Because of that, we can approach Him honestly with our burdens.

If you are enduring a difficult season today, remember that trials are temporary, but God’s faithfulness is eternal. The storm may not pass overnight, but the Lord walks beside you through every dark moment. As Psalm 34:19 says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.”

Hold on. God is still working, even in the trial.

May 25, 2016

Raider Addison Henry earned gold at state track with a discus toss of 143-02 and a silver in the shot put with a toss of 42-11.50. She also brought home the all class award with her discus throw. Other medalists were Montana Markus sixth in discus; Jessica Eurek seventh in 800 run (2:32.15) and a seventh for the 4X400 relay team of Eurek, Kinley Krzycki, Kennedy Lewandowski, and Josie Ference. Nolan Baker earned an eighthplace medal in the long jump (20-04.50).

Madison Dodson was the 2016 Arcadia High School valedictorian and Journie Woodward salutatorian.

2016 Red Raider Booster Scholarship winners were Jessica Eurek, Grant Lewandowski, Sydney Harrington, Adam Wagner, and Morgan Curlo.

The Alisa Walker and Taylor Quinn engagement and upcoming wedding story led the social news.

An open house for “Motorcycle Mama” aka Gin Robson will be held Saturday at Seneca Sunrise to honor her ninetieth birthday.

A card shower was requested for Oren and Joyce Vogt to honor their fiftieth wedding anniversary.

Litchfield elementary students earning first place in the Legion Auxiliary Poppy Poster contest were Hailey Zentz, Lane Slocum, Katherine Paitz, Gracie Ritchie, Dylan Handley, and Faith Heapy. Loup City elementary Poppy Poster winner was Samantha Augustyn.

May 24, 2006

Loup City eighth grade student Natalie Hanisch won the $100 award sponsored by the Nebraska Police Officers Association essay contest.

Marshall Keough was the 2006 Arcadia High School valedictorian and Derek Meyers salutatorian.

Ron Marshall, cooperative weather observer for Loup City, was honored with a special plaque for his exemplary service.

Delaine Mroczek was pictured crowning the Blessed Virgin Mary at the recent service held at St. Josaphat Catholic Church.

A son, William James, was born to Jayme and Dawn Skibinski.

The Memorial Day dinner at St. Frances Parish Hall will feature fried chicken and Maschka sausage for a cost of six dollars for adults.

Kyle Holcomb has been selected to play in the first LouPlatte-Fort Kearney Conferences All Star Basketball Game.

Trojan David Panowicz earned a sixthplace medal at State Track in the 110 hurdles with a time of 15.967.

St. Josaphat’s Catholic Church held First Holy Eucharist for Ryan Fowler, Cohen Lewandowski, Trevor Schultz, Jessica Eurek, Grant Lewandowski, Brady Rasmussen, and Blake Grossart.

The Litchfield Steakhouse was advertised for sale noting “contact Nathan.”

May 22, 1996

Trojan Megan Bice was named the Bausch and Lomb Science Award winner.

Carl Krolikowski scored an ace on the 167-yard Loup City Golf Course second hole on Sunday, May 19th.

Lenny Piontkowski earned a fifth-place state track medal in the 200 with a time of 23.37 and Randy Krahulik was sixth in the 800 run with a time of 2:01.6.

The Loup City High School golf team won the district meet at Clay Center. Chris Lewandowski led Raider scorers with an eighty for a sixth place followed by Jared Heil, thirty-three and ninth, Dave Young eighty-four, Michael Eurek eighty-six, and Eric Tepley, eighty-eight.

Cindy Ericson was named the Red Raider Booster of the Year at the annual Loup City High School athletic banquet.

GAP editor George Peterson wrote about his recent absence due to pneumonia and post-polio syndrome that may require him to be on oxygen.

Amy Hostetler is the 1996 Loup City Swimming Pool manager. Her assistant is Paul Woznick. Lifeguards are Lynn Klimek, Alicia Hulinsky, Eryn McConnell, Laurie Walrath, and Melissa Obermiller. Children’s season pass cost is thirty dollars.

Leo and Phyllis Treffer hosted a Saturday evening birthday supper to honor Bob and Marge Harrington.

The Litchfield Board of Education set new terms and conditions for the Superintendent. A new twenty-month contract will be for twenty days with eleven sick days. Other conditions include rules on the use of the driver’s education car and attendance at track meets.

Mohana with Red Shoes is playing the Kenny and Barb Dorsey twenty-fifth wedding anniversary Saturday night dance at the Arcadia Legion Club.

May 22, 1986

Loup City Schools new elementary school principal is Larry Hiatt who is replacing Dennis Wentz.

Wendy Wilson was the 1986 Litchfield High School valedictorian and Barb Wilson salutatorian. The seniors sang “Leave You with a Smile” at the graduation ceremony.

Special gold medals were placed around the necks of Loup City High School seniors Ann Marie Crist, Rose Ann Wilson, Mitchell McCartney, Jacqueline Stanczyk, and Karla Harris by Superintendent Ricard Yelkin at Sunday graduation ceremony.

Mrs. Dennis Badura was announced as the 1986-1987 Sherman County Arthritis Foundation Drive chairman.

Former Litchfield law enforcement officer David Young had visited Loup City Police Chief Larry Walker one week before he took 150 Cokeville, Wyoming students hostage and then killed himself.

Loup City High School State Track qualifiers are Judene Krolikowski 100 hurdles, Mitchell McCartney 100 and 200, Kami Kieborz 300 hurdles ,and Amy Dzingle long jump. Trojan qualifiers are Terrell Simonson, 200; Tracy Slocum, long jump; John Kucera, shot put and discus; Ed LeFever, shot put; and Curtis Heapy, high jump.

Kelli Sekutera was announced as a winner of the Central Nebraska Forensics League scholarship.

Loup City High School 1985 graduate Amy Badura has accepted a position with Republic Express Airlines based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Army reservist Brian Reiter graduated as the top honor student of his Ammunition Stock Control and Accounting course at the Redstone Arsenal in Alabama.

The American Heart Association honored Ashton 4-H Club members Regina Kuszak, Stephanie Gappa and Stacey Gappa for their fund raising efforts for the charity.

May 20, 1976

Pam Bals was the 1976 Loup City High School valedictorian and Rita Kusek salutatorian. The class motto was “I find the great thing in this world is not so much where we stand as the direction we are moving.” Jana Fread was the Litchfield valedictorian and Michelle Nelson salutatorian.

Loup City Schools and the teachers reached an agreement on the 19761977 salaries. The base for a beginning teacher will now be $8,050, up from the $7,750 of the past year. Board negotiators were Lennard Edwards, Dale Bals and Jim Kuehl and for the teachers, Lanny Kizer, Karen Burmood, Ken Jensen, and Mike Hudson. The board voted to raise the salary of elementary Principal Dennis Wentz by eleven percent and high school Principal John Werner by seven percent.

The Ashton Volunteer Fire Department set July 1st as the date they hope to finish remodeling the abandoned building on Main Street as their new fire hall.

Airman Emil Kowalewski has been selected for technical training in the Air Force Survival Equipment School at Chanute AFB.

The family of Mr. and Mrs. John Gallaway are hosting a fortieth wedding anniversary open house on Sunday afternoon at St. Josaphat’s Parish Center.

Theresa Kuta will long remember the Austin School trip to Lincoln as it was her birthday. The students raised over thirty dollars from aluminum beer can collections and every student was assessed seventy-five cents to pay for the trip.

Ray’s Market advertised a thirty-two oz jar of Miracle Whip for seventy-nine cents.

Trojan track star Dianne Wardyn earned at the Girls State Track gold medal in the eightyyard hurdles with a time of 11.1. She was also third in the 440 with a time of 60.6. The meet was held in North Platte. Dave Siegel qualified for 100 and 330 dashes and Marty Albrecht in the one-mile and two-mile runs.

May 26, 1966

Sixty Loup City High School seniors received their diplomas at the Monday night graduation ceremony. Russell Epley was valedictorian and Donna Treffer salutatorian. The class motto was “I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep.”

The Raider track team earned third place at the State Track meet. Larry Zabloudil won the 440 in a time of 50.9. Later he and teammates Rich Guzinski, Jerry Slominski and Paul Mathew won the mile relay in a time of 3:34.40. Junior Travis tied for third place in the high jump.

Dick Madsen was announced as the Litchfield Boys State representative.

Mrs. Betty Lee is the new Arcadia correspondent for the Times replacing long time writer Mrs. Hope Crist.

A son, Richard, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Richard Gappa.

Jack & Jill advertised it would give away a Rawlings Mickey Mantle baseball glove and ball to the child that turned in the most Pleasmoor product bags.

The Ashton High School senior trip was to Colorado Springs. Sponsors were Superintendent and Mrs. Donohue and Mrs. Roger Watson.

Ruth Slominski was offering a five dollar reward for the return of a wrist watch she lost at the State Park.

The Rockville Women’s Club met Wednesday evening at Sully’s Café with all members present. Cards were played and prizes were won by Lola Bushausen, Mrs. Vernon Johnson and Mrs. Alfred Jensen.

Nebraska net farm income is projected to increase by twelve percent in 2026, reaching a record $9.96 billion, according to the latest projections from the University of Nebraska— Lincoln and the University of Missouri.

Higher government payments, continued strength in the livestock sector and a rebound in the crop sector are driving the projected $1.10 billion increase over 2025 levels, according to the Spring 2026 Farm Income Outlook for Nebraska. The report is a collaboration between the Center for Agricultural Profitability at Nebraska and the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at Missouri.

Nebraska’s projected increase contrasts with the national outlook, with projections showing United States net farm income holding relatively steady or declining slightly in 2026. The report attributes Nebraska’s improved outlook to strong livestock receipts and the outsized impact of government payments in the state.

Government payments in Nebraska are projected to increase by $1.24 billion, or seventy- one percent, to $2.97 billion in 2026. The increase is expected to come from higher Title I commodity program payments under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and ad hoc assistance.

The projected income reflects important support for the state’s farm economy but may not tell the full story of producer profitability, according to Brad Lubben, agricultural policy specialist at Nebraska.

“Strong cattle prices and higher government payments are helping push Nebraska’s projected farm income to a record level in 2026,” Lubben said. “At the same time, production expenses are also projected to reach a record high. That means many producers may still be working with tight margins, even in a year when the aggregate income number looks very strong.”

Total livestock receipts in Nebraska are projected to increase by $708 million, or three percent, to $23.55 billion in 2026. Cattle receipts, which account for ninety-one of Nebraska livestock receipts, are projected to increase by $1.09 billion, or five percent, to $21.52 billion. That’s due to continued high cattle prices driven by tight supplies and stable marketings of heavier cattle, according to the report.

After three consecutive years of decline, crop receipts are projected to increase by $517 million, or four percent, to $12.01 billion. Corn receipts are projected to increase by $374 million, or five percent, to $7.86 billion, supported by higher prices and inventory sales from a record 2025 crop. Soybean receipts are projected to increase by $116 million, or four percent, to $3.08 billion.

“The crop side of the outlook is important because it marks a positive change from the past few years,” Lubben said. “That does not mean margins suddenly become easy, especially with fuel, fertilizer and other costs still elevated, but it does point to some improvement in the revenue picture for crop producers.”

Production expenses are projected to increase by $829 million, or three percent, to a record $30.37 billion in 2026. The report indicates key drivers are higher purchased livestock expenses, fuel costs and fertilizer costs. Purchased livestock expenses are projected at $10.55 billion, up five percent from 2025, while fuel and oil expenses are projected to increase twenty-six percent to $903 million. Fertilizer expenses are projected to increase four percent to $2.25 billion.

Looking ahead, the report projects Nebraska net farm income to decrease by $1.22 billion, or twelve percent, to $8.74 billion in 2027. That’s primarily driven by a projected $1.32 billion reduction in government payments, assuming a substantial drop in supplemental and ad hoc program payments.

“The information in the Farm Income Outlook is intended to help policymakers, industry analysts and agricultural practitioners understand the expected profitability of the state agricultural sector and the factors driving it,” said Alejandro Plastina, director of the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at Missouri. “For 2026, the Nebraska outlook points to strong aggregate income, but also continued exposure to high costs, policy uncertainty and changing market conditions.”

The report notes that its projections do not account for all market uncertainty and that small changes in cash receipts, production expenses or unannounced government assistance can substantially change the outlook for net farm income.

Area graduates include: Loup City: Liam John Heil, BS, Agribusiness and Taylor D. Quinn, BAED, History/Social Studies 6-12.

Ravenna: Jesse Allen Drahota, BS, Business Administration; Alivia Grace Rager, BS, Applied Health Sciences; Bailey Schirmer, BAED, Early Childhood Inclusive; and Aspyn L. Wick, BS, Industrial Distribution.

You have Polish Days weekend reserved, don’t you? There will be lots of activities beginning Friday, June 5th. The Sherman County Historical Society will have a float in Saturday’s parade. Then get ready for some homemade ice cream and cookies.

There will be a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new picnic shelter at 1:30 p.m. that day.

The museum buildings will all be open for self-guided tours on both Saturday and Sunday.

Speaking of Sunday, the historical society’s guest speaker at the Elsner/ Clark Exhibit Hall at 1:30 p.m. will be Dick Wooden who will share some information about ham radios. He said that he is hoping to have two other people share some information. Doesn’t this weekend sound like a fun one?

Memorial Day Weekend is the start of the museum’s regular schedule for Sunday afternoons, 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. The museum will also be open on Monday, Memorial Day, 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Since this is the year for the alumni banquet, visitors can expect to run into alumni visitors on Sunday and Monday afternoon. Members will have a couple bulletin boards of unidentified photos on display. The photos were donated by a local business, but most are nameless. Can you tell us who these folks are? We sure could use help!

The fiftieth anniversary of the Sherman County Historical Society is next year and the historical society is lining up several special activities to commemorate the occasion. Members will have a cylinder time capsule that we will bury near the picnic shelter.

This time capsule was purchased with grant funds courtesy of the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation.

If you have an item you would like to place in the time capsule, contact the Sherman County Historical Society.

Another special activity to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary will be the publication of a fiftieth anniversary cookbook with recipes and some history of the organization. Recipes have already been selected; photos for the book will not be the same ones that were in the photo history book.

Thirty-four Litchfield and Loup City school students submitted cover page entries. The winning design was that of Jayden Larchick of Loup City. Honorable mention goes to Madison Pazdernik of Loup City, and Jenna Holm of Litchfield. All thirty- four students and both art teachers (Deb Miller of Loup City and Allison Varah of Litchfield) will receive a copy of the cookbook after it is available. Jayden also received a cash award and a certificate. The Sherman County Historical Museum appreciates all the work that went into each entry.

The Sherman County Historical Museum resumes its Sunday afternoon, 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., schedule Memorial Day weekend. Members are open without an appointment through the summer on Sunday afternoons, with the last weekend of the summer being Labor Day weekend. The Research Center (and Hanshew Barbershop) is open Wednesday afternoon 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. all year. The museum welcome visitors at other times, too—just call to make your arrangements.

To become a member of the Sherman County Historical Society, call Donna Trompke at (308) 750-3325, or contact Kathy Spotanski, Mark Nabity, RoseAnn Kowalski, or Elsie Kieborz for a membership application. The Sherman County Historical Society’s mailing address is P.O. Box 362, Loup City, NE 68853; their Facebook page is Sherman County NE Historical Society. The website is www.shermancountyhistoricalsociety. com.