“As America turned 250 over Independence Day weekend, our troopers and dispatchers remained vigilant to keep Nebraskans safe,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “There are many more local events on the schedule as the summer continues across Nebraska. If any of those events involve alcohol, always make sure to have a sober driver.”

The effort coincided with a national campaign, which ran from July 2nd through July 6th. Throughout Independence Day weekend, troopers performed high visibility patrols and traffic control around many community gatherings, while watching for impaired drivers.

In addition to the thirty-five arrests for driving under the influence, troopers also issued 596 citations for speeding. Twenty- three of those speeders were driving over 100 miles per hour. Troopers also issued citations for driving under suspension (34), open alcohol container (27), minor in possession of alcohol (4), no seat belt (18), improper child restraint (11), and failure to move over (7). Troopers also performed 174 motorist assists during the campaign.

This effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation— Highway Safety Office.

The drive collected twenty-eight units of blood toward its goal of thirty-five units.

Homemade cookies prepared by Vivian Damratowski were available for donors throughout the day.

Volunteers also played an important role in the event. FBLA member Dillion Rademacher assisted with checking in donors. Melissa Kaputska serves as the FBLA sponsor. Shirley King helped with setting up and taking down tables and handled general cleanup duties.

Those donating blood were Gary Kuszak, Daryl Kuszak, Connie Hancock, Robert Ksionzek, Eldon Adams, Vivian Damratowski, Shawn Damratowski, Tamara Kuehl, Peggy Mroczek, Brenda Jerabek, Josh Cole, Deb Moeller, Taralee Baker, Joan Teichmeier, Sharlene Mc-Clary, Richard Dethlefs, Debra Obermiller, Lisa Harrington, Douglas Day, Patricia Kowalski, Debora Smedra, Lucinda Ryan, Allan Ziola, George McFadden, Carrie Setlik, Gerard Larchick, Marcia Kaslon, Tina Chilewski and Daniel Kwiatkowski.

The next community blood drive is scheduled for September 2, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12 (NIV) Time has a way of reminding us that nothing on earth stands still. The seasons change, children grow into adults, and yesterday’s memories become today’s treasured stories. We often wonder where the years have gone, especially when we look back and realize how quickly life has passed. Yet every passing moment is a gift from God, entrusted to us for His purpose.

It is easy to become consumed by busy schedules, deadlines, and responsibilities, believing there will always be more time later. We postpone conversations, delay acts of kindness, and sometimes neglect our relationship with the Lord. But Scripture reminds us that our days are numbered, not to make us fearful, but to encourage us to live wisely and intentionally.

The elapse of time is not something we can control, but how we use our time is a choice we make each day. Every sunrise offers another opportunity to forgive, to serve, to encourage someone, to grow in faith, and to share God’s love. The moments that seem ordinary often become the ones that leave the greatest legacy.

God exists beyond time, yet He walks with us through every season. He knows our past, guides our present, and has already prepared our future. When we place our trust in Him, we no longer need to fear the passing years. Instead, we can embrace each day as a chance to honor Him.

As another day comes to a close, ask yourself whether your time reflected God’s priorities. Did your words bring hope? Did your actions show Christ’s love? May we remember that while time continues to pass, every moment spent serving God has eternal value.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me use the time You have given wisely. Teach me to treasure each day, seek Your will, and invest my life in things that will last for eternity. Amen.

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” — Ephesians 5:15–16 Opportunities are often disguised as ordinary moments.

We tend to imagine that God’s greatest invitations will arrive with fanfare and certainty, but many times they come quietly—a conversation, a new responsibility, a chance to serve, or an open door that requires faith to walk through.

The apostle Paul encourages believers to make the most of every opportunity.

This means recognizing that our time, talents, and circumstances are gifts entrusted to us by God.

Each day presents moments that can either be embraced or overlooked. The difference often lies not in the size of the opportunity but in our willingness to respond.

Throughout Scripture, God used people who seized the opportunities placed before them. David stepped forward when others shrank back. Esther embraced her position for “such a time as this.” The disciples left their nets when Jesus called. None of them knew exactly how God would work through their obedience, but they trusted Him enough to act.

Fear, doubt, and procrastination can cause us to miss what God is doing.

We may wait for perfect conditions or complete certainty before moving forward. Yet faith often requires action before all the details are visible. When God opens a door, He also provides the grace needed to walk through it.

Today, ask God to help you recognize the opportunities around you. Perhaps it is an opportunity to encourage someone, share your faith, develop a gift, reconcile a relationship, or pursue a calling He has placed on your heart. Small acts of obedience can lead to significant kingdom impact.

Rather than focusing on what you cannot do, focus on what God is asking you to do today. The opportunities before you may be the very means through which He accomplishes His purpose in your life.

The public is invited to be part of this free event with performances by Julie Smith Phillips, a harpist who is originally from Hastings and now performs with the San Diego Symphony, and the Bel Canto Duo with cellist David Downing and oboist Darci Gamerl. Bel Canto combines lyrical musical lines with arts-based therapies. The program will also include live poetry readings from Jan Chism Wright, who lives in the Barada Hills of southeastern Nebraska, and the Homestead Harmonizer Quartet from Beatrice will perform barbershop music.

Nebraska Public Media Music Director and Friday LIVE host Genevieve Randall will interview Phillips about the Nebraska Harp Retreat, a summer harp camp she is hosting in Brownville.

Randall will also share the latest news about music, arts, literature, and events happening around the state with guests attending the Brownville event and radio listeners from across the state.

Doors open at 9:00 a.m. with concessions available during the show. While the event is free, registration is encouraged. For more information about Friday LIVE, including archived episodes of the show, visit NebraskaPublicMedia. org/

A ceremony for students earning graduate and professional degrees took place May 8th at Pinnacle Bank Arena; and two ceremonies for undergraduates were May 9th at the arena. A ceremony for College of Law graduates occurred May 9th at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson presided over the ceremonies.

Area graduates are listed below.

Ansley: Carli Nicole Bailey, College of Business, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Arcadia: Brayden Nathan Phillips, College of Business, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Loup City: Sadie Sue Ference, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Bachelor of Science in Animal Science.

Ravenna: Treydan Lee Anderson, College of Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering; William Scott Fiddelke, College of Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering; Hayden Kirsten Rae Hauge, College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts with high distinction; College of Journalism and Mass Communications, Bachelor of Journalism with high distinction; and Owen Craig Woodward, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Bachelor of Science in Agronomy.

Rockville: Jaden Brynn Graczyk, UNO College of Public Affairs and Community Service, Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Margy Harrington

New adventures often begin with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. Whether it is starting a new job, moving to a new place, building a relationship, or stepping into a situation we never expected, change can feel overwhelming. Yet God frequently uses new beginnings to deepen our faith and remind us that He walks ahead of us.

The Bible is filled with stories of people who stepped into unknown territory because they trusted God. Abraham left his homeland without knowing where he was going. The disciples left their nets to follow Jesus.

Their journeys were not always easy, but God was faithful every step of the way.

Isaiah 43:19 says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”

Bible God specializes in creating new paths where none seem possible. When we face unfamiliar situation, we can trust that He is already at work preparing the way before us.

New adventures require courage, but courage does not mean the absence of fear. It means moving forward despite uncertainty because we know God is with us. Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Bible What a comforting promise. We never travel alone when God is guiding our steps.

Sometimes we want every detail mapped out before we begin. However, faith often means taking one step at a time. Proverbs 3:5-6 teaches, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Bible God does not ask us to understand everything; He asks us to trust Him.

As you step into your next adventure, remember that God’s plans are greater than your fears.

Every new beginning is an opportunity to grow, learn, and experience His faithfulness in fresh ways. Walk forward with confidence, knowing the One who calls you is also the One who sustains you.

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.

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.

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.