Statewide spring population indices indicated an 18% increase from 2024 to 2025. Regionally, the average number of turkeys observed increased from 2024 in all regions except the Sandhills and Northeast.

Gizel said that while overall turkey numbers are slightly higher, hunters might see fewer younger birds, which is reflected in the summer turkey brood surveys.

These surveys estimate annual hens’ production and poult survival through the summer brood rearing period.

Heavy spring rains in May and June last year may have contributed to reduced production, as young turkey poults are more susceptible to wet and cold conditions during these months.

Gizel said that statewide production in 2025 was relatively good.

For local estimates, read the 2025 Nebraska Turkey Brood Survey Report at OutdoorNebraska. gov. Search “Wildlife Surveys.”

Spring turkey hunting season with shotguns opened for youths April 11th. The season has been open to all archers since March 25th, with all spring seasons closing May 31st.

Discovery often feels like something reserved for explorers, scientists, or adventurers charting unknown lands. Yet, in truth, discovery is woven into the quiet, ordinary rhythm of our everyday lives.

Each day holds the potential to uncover something new—not only about the world around us, but about ourselves and the presence of God within it.

There is beauty in realizing that we are never finished being shaped. Even in familiar routines, fresh understanding can emerge. A verse read a hundred times may suddenly speak in a new way.

A conversation may open our eyes to a perspective we had never considered.

A difficult season may reveal strength, patience, or faith we didn’t know we possessed.

Discovery invites us to slow down and pay attention. It reminds us that life is not meant to be rushed through, but experienced with wonder. When we approach each day with open hearts, we begin to notice the small details— the kindness of a stranger, the quiet peace in a moment of prayer, the gentle ways we are guided even when we feel uncertain.

There is also humility in discovery. It teaches us that we do not have all the answers, and that is not a weakness. Instead, it is an invitation to trust, to learn, and to grow. God often reveals truth step by step, not all at once, so that we remain dependent on Him and attentive to His voice.

Even in hardship, discovery can unfold. We may uncover resilience in suffering, hope in despair, or a deeper faith that anchors us when everything else feels unsteady.

These discoveries are not always easy, but they are meaningful and transformative.

The beauty of discovery lies in its promise: that no matter where we are in life, there is always more to learn, more to see, and more to experience.

And in every discovery, we are gently drawn closer to the One who created us with hearts designed to seek, to grow, and to wonder.

Game and Parks also lifted its ban on prescribed burns.

This follows the State of Nebraska’s decision to rescind its burn ban after recent rains.

A temporary ban on campfires and prescribed burns was put in place March 13 in response to wildfires arising from dry conditions persisting across much of Nebraska.

State park area and WMA guests are encouraged to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of wildfire:

• Restrict driving to established roads and trails.

• Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation.

• Dispose of cigarettes and other flammable objects appropriately.

• Ensure your vehicle, trailers, and other equipment are well-maintained.

• Make sure no chains are dragging from your vehicle.

• In the morning, before driving and while the exhaust/catalytic converter system is cool, inspect it to see no debris is clinging to it.

Fully extinguish any campfire before leaving it unattended.

• Driving vehicles or parking on dry, tall grass is a primary threat. Grass can ignite within seconds of contacting a hot surface, such as a vehicle’s exhaust/catalytic converter systems. Campers and hunters should carry a shovel, bucket, and a fire extinguisher in their vehicle or camper to put out unintended flames.

Memories are powerful things. They have a way of carrying us back—sometimes to moments of joy and laughter, other times to seasons of struggle and uncertainty. A familiar smell, a song on the radio, or even a quiet evening can open the door to the past in an instant. And while we cannot live in yesterday, God often uses our memories to shape who we are today.

Throughout Scripture, we see a recurring call to remember. In Deuteronomy 6:12, God warns His people, “Be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt.” Memory, in this sense, is not just reflection—it is spiritual discipline. Remembering what God has done strengthens our faith for what lies ahead.

There is comfort in recalling God’s faithfulness. When life feels uncertain, we can look back and see the ways He has provided, guided, and sustained us. Just as the Israelites set up stones of remembrance after crossing the Jordan River, we too can mark the moments where God showed up in undeniable ways.

But memories also remind us of growth. We remember who we were, the mistakes we made, and the grace we received. Through that lens, we see not just our past, but God’s transforming work within us. Even painful memories can serve a purpose, teaching us compassion, resilience, and dependence on Him.

The power of memory is not in dwelling on the past, but in allowing it to point us toward truth. It anchors us when we feel lost and reassures us when we feel alone.

Today, take a moment to remember. Recall a time when God was faithful, when hope broke through, or when peace replaced fear. Let those memories strengthen your heart and renew your trust.

Because the same God who was present then is with you now—and will be with you in every memory yet to come.

Under the updated guidance, USPS cannot guarantee that the date it takes possession of a mailpiece will be the date reflected in the postmark. Residents are encouraged to take extra precautions when mailing documents that rely on a postmark to meet statutory or regulatory deadlines. This includes real estate, personal property tax payments, and inheritance tax payments.

Additionally, recent USPS transportation changes may affect how mail moves from local post offices to processing centers. This could further delay when the mail is postmarked.

To help avoid late filings or delinquent payments, county officials recommend that residents and businesses take the following steps when submitting time-sensitive mail:

• Use electronic or online services whenever available to ensure timely submission.

• Mail items early, allowing additional time ahead of deadlines.

• Request a manual postmark when mailing time-sensitive documents. This service is free and ensures the postmark reflects the date USPS takes possession of the mail piece.

• Consider optional mailing services such as Certified Mail, Registered Mail, or a Certificate of Mailing.

Refer to our website, www.co.sherman.ne.us, for online services through the Treasurer.

Residents with questions about filing deadlines, payment options, or available electronic services are encouraged to contact the Sherman County Treasurer’s Office at 308-745-1513, option 3, for any further information.

There is a tension many of us live with every day: the pull between caution and willingness.

Scripture affirms both. We are told to be wise, to count the cost, to test the spirits. At the same time, we are repeatedly called to trust, to step out in faith, and to follow even when the path ahead is unclear.

Being cautious is not a lack of faith.

Caution can be an act of stewardship.

It recognizes that our decisions affect others, that resources are finite, and that discernment matters. Proverbs reminds us that “the prudent see danger and take refuge.” Wisdom asks good questions, seeks counsel, and pauses long enough to listen.

But caution, left unchecked, can harden into fear.

It can become an excuse to stay comfortable, to avoid risk, or to say no when God is quietly inviting us to say yes. Jesus’ call to His disciples was rarely accompanied by detailed explanations. “Follow me” required willingness more than certainty.

Faith lives in the space between the two. It is cautious enough to seek God’s guidance, but willing enough to move when that guidance comes.

It acknowledges uncertainty while refusing to be paralyzed by it. Faith says, “I don’t have all the answers, but I trust the One who does.”

In our daily lives, this balance might look like preparing carefully for a new opportunity, but not waiting until everything feels perfectly safe. It might mean guarding our hearts, yet remaining open to love, service, or reconciliation. It might mean praying for clarity—and then acting when peace, not proof, arrives.

Today, ask yourself where God may be calling you to be willing, not reckless, but brave. And ask where wisdom is urging you to slow down, reflect, and seek counsel.

Walking with God is rarely about choosing caution or willingness. More often, it’s about learning how to hold both faithfully, trusting that He walks with us in every step.

Qualification for the Deans’ List varies among the eight undergraduate colleges and the Explore Center. All qualifying grade-point averages are based on a four-point scale and a minimum number of graded semester hours. Students can be on the Deans’ List for more than one college.

Ansley: Lilly Rae Jonas, junior, Dean’s List, College of Education and Human Sciences, elementary education and early childhood education.

Hazard: Holten Carstens, freshman, Dean’s List, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agricultural leadership, education and communication; Dean’s List, College of Business, finance.

Loup City: Kapri Calleroz- Hampton, sophomore, Dean’s List, College of Journalism and Mass Communications, advertising and public relations and Sadie Sue Ference, senior, Dean’s List, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, animal science and pre-veterinary medicine.

Ravenna: Trey Anderson, senior, Dean’s List, College of Engineering, electrical engineering; Wil Fiddelke, senior, Dean’s List, College of Engineering, electrical engineering; Lainey Hervert, freshman, Dean’s List, College of Business, management; Hanna Johnson, sophomore, Dean’s List, College of Engineering, electrical engineering; Zach Lewandowski, junior, Dean’s List, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agronomy; Karson Ryan Paitz, senior, Dean’s List, College of Engineering, agricultural engineering; and Owen Woodward, senior, Dean’s List, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agronomy.

Rockville: Hayley Grudzinski, senior, Dean’s List, College of Arts and Sciences, English and Hope McDonald, freshman, Dean’s List, College of Business, marketing.

• The minimum ice thickness for supporting one person is at least four inches of clear, solid ice.

• Drill holes or use an ice chisel or spud bar to check the ice conditions while working your way out to your fishing spot.

• Wear a life jacket.

• Avoid falls by wearing ice cleats on your boots to maintain traction.

• Layer your clothing, beginning with a synthetic layer. Wool garments provide excellent insulation and maintain warmth even when damp. Outer layers may include sweatshirts and jackets covered by heavy parkas, bibs or coveralls. Carry at least a couple pairs of gloves or mittens. Remove layers during periods of activity, such as manually drilling ice holes, to avoid sweating, and add layers back on during periods of inactivity.

• Have some extra dry clothes in your vehicle.

• Fish with others in case trouble arises.

• Have a long rope with you so someone can rescue you if you break through the ice.

• Before heading out, tell a family member or friend where you will be fishing.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages. These affect your judgment and increase your chances for hypothermia.

Unity is one of those words that sounds simple until we try to live it out. It’s easy to agree with people who think like us, act like us, and see the world the same way we do. True unity, though, is forged in the space where differences exist.

Scripture reminds us that we are many parts, but one body. Each part matters, not because it is identical, but because it is necessary. The hand cannot say to the foot, “I don’t need you,” just as the eye cannot dismiss the ear. Unity doesn’t erase our uniqueness; it gives our uniqueness purpose.

In a divided world, unity often feels fragile. Disagreements arise, frustrations grow, and pride quietly convinces us that our way is the right way. Yet Jesus consistently called His followers to something higher. He prayed not that we would all be the same, but that we would be one— bound together by love, humility, and grace.

Unity requires effort. It means listening when it would be easier to speak, forgiving when it would be simpler to walk away, and choosing understanding over assumption. It asks us to value relationships more than being right and to remember that love is our greatest witness.

When we pursue unity, we reflect God’s heart. We show a watching world what it looks like when people choose compassion over conflict and cooperation over competition. Unity becomes less about agreement and more about commitment— commitment to care for one another, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Today, consider where God might be calling you to strengthen unity. Is there a relationship that needs healing? A conversation that needs grace? A difference that needs patience? When we choose unity, we don’t just grow closer to each other—we grow closer to God, who binds us together in perfect love.

Central Nebraska Community Action Partnership can help with the Commodity Supplemental Food Program that provides food to improve the health of people over sixty by supplementing their diets with nutritious United States Department of Agriculutre foods.

If you qualify, you may receive a food package that consists of canned fruits and vegetables, cereals, meat and dairy products, juice, and grains.

This food package is distributed on a monthly basis.

In order to qualify, you must provide proof of residency, age, and meet income eligibility requirements of the program.

If you or someone you know is in need of food, you may be able to get assistance.

Please contact the CNCAP office at (308) 745-0780 and ask for Jana for more information on how you may get help.

Scripture consistently reminds us that generosity is not merely an act— it is a posture of the heart. When we give to those in need, something remarkable happens: God uses our open hands to do His work, and in return, He shapes our hearts to look more like His.

One of the clearest promises in Scripture comes from Proverbs 11:25: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This verse reminds us that when we give, we participate in a cycle of blessing. Our gift—whether time, money, encouragement, or presence— can lift a burden, renew hope, or meet a practical need. Yet God does more than help the recipient.

He works in us as well, refreshing our spirits in ways we cannot accomplish on our own.

Giving also frees us from the quiet grip of self-focus.

In Acts 20:35, Paul recounts Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Generosity pulls our eyes away from what we lack and shifts them toward the ways God has already provided.

When we open our hands to others, we are reminded that our security is not found in our possessions but in God’s faithfulness. Our hearts expand, our gratitude deepens, and our priorities realign.

Moreover, giving connects us to the heart of Christ.

Throughout His ministry, Jesus moved toward the hurting, the hungry, and the overlooked. When we give, we mirror His compassion. Galatians 6:2 encourages us to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Every act of generosity, no matter how small, becomes a step in following Him more closely.

And here is the quiet miracle: God multiplies what we offer. A simple meal becomes nourishment. A moment of encouragement becomes hope. A financial gift becomes relief. Our giving—born from God’s love—becomes a testimony to His goodness.

The WMAs, including counties, are Arnold Trupp (Morrill), Arrowhead (Gage), Bordeaux (Dawes), Branched Oak (Lancaster), Cornhusker (Hall), George D.

Syas (Nance), Hickory Ridge (Johnson), James N. Douglas (Johnson), Kirkpatrick Basin North (York), Wood Duck (Stanton), Peru Bottoms (Nemaha), Powder Creek (Dixon), Pressey (Custer), Rakes Creek (Cass), Randall W. Schilling (Cass), Sherman Reservoir (Sherman), Wilkinson (Platte), and Yankee Hill (Lancaster). The pheasants will be released to enhance hunting opportunities over the extended Thanksgiving holiday weekend and encourage families to spend time together in the field. Non-toxic shot is required at Kirkpatrick Basin North, Peru Bottoms, Randall W. Schilling, and Wilkinson WMAs, but otherwise all usual regulations apply.

Game and Parks reminds hunters that safety in the field and of those releasing pheasants is of utmost importance; for this reason, a specific schedule for pheasant releases will not be issued.

Nebraska’s pheasant, quail, and prairie grouse seasons run through January 31, 2026. Permits and applicable stamps may be purchased at OutdoorNebraska. gov.

For more information on these and other publicly accessible lands throughout Nebraska, visit Game and Parks’ Public Access Atlas online or contact Game and Parks at (402) 4710641.

Words are small things with great power. Scripture reminds us again and again that what we say can either build up or tear down, heal or wound, guide or mislead. Because of this, guarding our words is not simply polite behavior— it is a spiritual discipline that shapes our witness and our walk with Christ.

Proverbs 18:21 tells us plainly, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” We may not think of everyday conversations as life-giving or life-taking, yet every sentence leaves an imprint.

A careless joke, a sharp reply, or a whispered complaint can ripple farther than we ever intended. At the same time, a word of encouragement, truth, or compassion can lift a weary soul and reflect God’s love in profound ways.

Jesus teaches that our words reveal our hearts.

“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” (Matthew 12:34).

This means speech is not just managed at the lips—it is formed in the heart. If our words are consistently impatient, harsh, or cynical, it may be a sign that we need Christ to reshape something deeper within us. Guarding our speech begins by inviting the Holy Spirit to purify our thoughts, attitudes, and desires from the inside out.

James gives a final and sobering reminder: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19). Slowing down gives space for wisdom to rise above impulse. Listening first allows love to guide our response.

Today, consider offering your words to God just as you would your time, your resources, or your plans.

Ask Him to make your speech gentle, truthful, and steady. In a world full of noise, your guarded and gracefilled words can shine like light— pointing others not to your voice, but to His.

The drive had a goal of thirty-two units and received thirty-eight.

Snacks for donors were provided by Charlene Bush, Donna Trompke, and the Red Cross.

Three first-time donors participated: Elijah Solis, Chance Peterson, and Joan Nelson.

FBLA volunteers assisting at the drive included Kaily Kurtzhals, Grace Augustyn, Morgan Rademacher, Paige Stanczyk, Kira Badura, Dylan Rademacher, Hadley Rademacher, Tenley Panowicz, and Taelyn Kuszak. The sponsor was Mrs. Kaputska.

Set-up was handled by Red Cross workers and FBLA volunteers.

Clean-up was completed by Paige Stanczyk, Mr. and Mrs. Kaputska, and Red Cross workers.

Donors at the drive were Robert Ksionzek, Michael Hill, Gary Kuszak, Donna Trompke, Allan Ziola, Jeslyn Dvorak, Thaddeus Harris, Aspen Manceaux, Shawn Damratowski, Brenda Jerabek, Elijah Solis, Tamara Kuehl, James Stanczyk, Steven Grudzinski, Nickcole Hawkins, Tina Chilewski, Korbyn Oseka, Chance Peterson, Richard Dethlefs, Joan Nelson, Grace Augustyn, Carl Spotanski, Penny Dieryck, Vivian Damratowski, Melissa Kaputska, Sharlene McClary, Robert Skorniak, James Ritz, Debra Obermiller, Douglas Day, Lucinda Ryan, Ruth Wickizer, George McFadden, Daniel Kwiatkowski, Marcia Kaslon, Krista Slobaszewski, Kody Sundermeier, Gerard Larchick, Anthony Kapustka, and Crystal Feik.

The next Loup City Red Cross blood drive is scheduled for January 7, 2026.

Donations appreciated.

All community members welcome!

The senior center’s meal program is partially funded through the Older Americans Act. Contributions are expected at the time of service and necessary to maintain the program.

For reservations call (308) 745-1810 before 10:00 a.m.

If you have any questions regarding this service, contact Denise at (308) 745-1810.

MENU: NOVEMBER 24TH - NOVEMBER 28TH MONDAY: Turkey enchiladas, seasoned rice, peas, Mandarin salad, and dinner roll.

TUESDAY: Meat loaf, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, fruit cobbler, and wheat roll.

WEDNESDAY: Closed.

THURSDAY: Closed.

FRIDAY: Closed.

God bless you all!

Donations appreciated.

All community members welcome!

The senior center’s meal program is partially funded through the Older Americans Act. Contributions are expected at the time of service and necessary to maintain the program.

For reservations call (308) 745-1810 before 10:00 a.m.

If you have any questions regarding this service, contact Denise at (308) 745-1810.

MENU: NOVEMBER 10TH - NOVEMBER 14TH MONDAY: Scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, fruit, dinner roll.

TUESDAY: Salmon patties, macaroni and cheese, green beans, tropical fruit, and wheat roll.

WEDNESDAY: Oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, cole slaw, Mandarin orange salad, and wheat roll.

THURSDAY: Swiss steak, scalloped potatoes, wax beans, pear slices, and wheat roll.

FRIDAY: Chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, corn, baked pears, and wheat roll.

The ceremony will begin with the Advancement of Colors, led by Earl Norseen, Commander of Troops for the American Legion, Sons of the American Legion, and Auxiliary. Pastor Ryan Durham of the United Methodist Church will offer the invocation.

A series of musical performances will follow the invocation. The Loup City High School Band, under the direction of Kyle Knaub, will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner;” the kindergarten- through-fifth-grade music students will perform “We the People” by John Riggio; and the high school band will play “Above and Beyond” by James Swearingen.

Following the musical performances, American Legion Post 48 Commander Chuck Radtke will deliver the commemoration. Subsequent speakers will include Kathy Obermiller, president of the American Legion Auxiliary, and Seth Skibinski, president of the Sons of the American Legion.

Veterans of Foreign Wars representative Mike Moeller will then introduce the Voice of Democracy program, and LCPS Social Sciences Instructor Kim Henry will introduce the Patriot’s Pen essay program.

Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen speeches, selected from senior and eighth-grade students, will be presented following their introduction.

Awards will be presented by Moeller following the speeches.

Once awards are presented, members of the Threads of Time Quilt Guild, led by president Sue Langholz, will present lap quilts to veterans in attendance.

To close out the ceremony, Pastor Durham, representing the Loup City Calvary Church, will offer the benediction. High school band member Kylee Zulkoski will perform “Taps,” and the ceremony will conclude with the Retirement of Colors, again led by Norseen and the Legion groups.

Loss has a way of shaking us to the core. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a dream, or a season of life, it leaves a hollow ache that words often can’t fill. In those moments, faith can feel distant—like a fragile flame flickering in the wind. Yet Scripture reminds us that faith is not the absence of pain, but the choice to trust God through it.

In John 11, we find Mary and Martha grieving the death of their brother, Lazarus. They knew Jesus could have healed him, and they didn’t hide their disappointment: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” (John 11:21) Still, even in their sorrow, they believed in who Jesus was. Their faith didn’t erase their grief—it anchored them in it.

That’s the tension of faith in loss. We grieve what we’ve lost, but we cling to who God still is.

Faith says, “I don’t understand this, but I know God is good.” It’s the quiet conviction that His promises are true even when His plan is hidden.

Isaiah 61:3 says that God gives “a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for the spirit of despair.” That doesn’t mean our ashes vanish overnight. It means that, over time, the God who wept with Mary and Martha begins to bring redemption from the ruins.

When we walk through loss, faith doesn’t demand that we be strong—it invites us to be still and know that God is. It allows us to lament and to hope in the same breath.

It teaches us that death, disappointment, and despair don’t have the final word—Jesus does.

So if you are grieving today, take heart. You are not alone, and your faith—even if it feels small—is precious in His sight. The same God who met the sisters at the tomb still meets us in our sorrow, whispering the promise that one day, all that is broken will be made whole again.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

— Matthew 5:4

The event will run from 9:30 a.m. until all the food is gone.

The mobile food pantry is available to participants free of charge. There are no age limits nor family size requirements.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on October 8th and December 4th in the Fine Arts Recital Hall on campus.

Both concerts are free and open to the public.

Open to any UNK student, the Wind Ensemble is selected by competitive audition each year.

The group performs on campus and across the region, including an annual spring tour.

This year, among the members of the wind ensemble is Cole Russell of Loup City Russell plays the bassoon.

UNK Director of Bands Duane Bierman leads the Wind Ensemble.