Blue Hill 20 Hershey 34

The Blue Hill Bobcats 2012 football season ended tonight as they fell to the Hershey Panthers with a score of 34 to 20.  There were three interceptions in the last few minutes of the game.  Hershey intercepted two in rapid succession one for a 100 yard run,  and then Blue Hill got one interception. 
The numbers for the Blue Hill team showed more passing and rushing yards than the Hershey team but it was the final score that counted  
The Bobcats had won the past eight games, this was only the second loss of the year, the other loss was the first game of the season.   
The Bobcats had a good season and a lot of underclassmen got a lot of playing time so they should have a good base to build on for next years season. 

Two Decades of Public Service Coming To an End

Senator Ben Nelson

In a little over two months I'll be out of office. The stark reality that 20 years of public service, 8 as governor and 12 as senator, is coming to a close really hit home last week during my first extended interview since I announced I would not seek re-election to the Senate.
That interview on NRG Media's Issues and Answers with Neil Nelkin, who's covered much of my political career, drove home the point that I had achieved the dream I'd had since I was a teen growing up in Nebraska to become governor and later senator, and it gave me a chance to reflect on why I wanted to be in public service in the first place and did that service have a positive impact on Nebraskans.
I got into public service because I like to solve problems. Success in solving problems requires that people with different viewpoints come together. Most Nebraskans, no matter which party they're in, want their elected officials to work together. They have become increasingly aware that extreme partisanship leads to gridlock.

As governor I embarked on a theme of "ONE Nebraska" emphasizing the goal that urban and rural interests come together, and that those things that bring us together as a community, state, and nation are more important than those things that divide us.

As senator my hope was always to have ONE Nation that can learn to collaborate when possible and compromise when necessary, just as we did in Nebraska. We had some successes but today partisan politics has too often hampered the ability to put aside political differences and work toward the common good. As we have seen with the farm bill, which for the first time in history was allowed to expire this year without being reauthorized, the atmosphere in Washington has become so politically poisonous that it's nearly impossible to pass the most basic of bills needed for our country to function.

I have always been a staunch advocate for Nebraska. As a rural state with a relatively small population someone needs to work hard in Washington to make sure our needs are not overlooked.

That's why I made it my first priority to advocate for those things that Nebraskans told me were their priorities. I fought hard to protect agriculture, and promoted funding for projects that were priorities to Nebraska such as roads, bridges, water and sewer projects, state fiscal relief, and major projects such as the new STRATCOM Headquarters and VA Medical Center in Omaha, the Antelope Valley and West Haymarket redevelopment projects in Lincoln, and many other community projects throughout the state from the College of Nursing in Norfolk to a new Missouri River Bridge at Rulo and maintaining Essential Air Service in Scottsbluff and McCook. Nebraska has always been my priority when it comes to federal assistance for communities and the state.

This column, which is sent out each week, is called "A Nebraskan's View" because a Nebraskan is what I am and always will be; not a senator; not a governor, but a Nebraskan. My appreciation goes out to my fellow Nebraskans that have joined in relentless pursuit of one Nebraska, one Nation. The successes achieved are ours together.

Blue Hill to meet Hasting St. Cecilia in Volleyball tournament play.

Blue Hill and Hastings St. Cecilia were the winners last night in the Volleyball Subdistrict tournament in Minden.  They will meet tonight to decide the winner of the C2-9 subdistrict tournament.  
Update.  Hastings St. Cecilia was able to defeat Blue Hill in three straight sets to win the Subdistrict title.. 

Volleyball Subdistrict C2-9 at CLJ Middle School #4 Superior 40.8400 (15-14) Match 1 10/29/2012 5:00 PM CT #5 Franklin 35.2400 (1-25) #1 Hastings St. Cecilia 46.7586 (27-3) Match 3 10/29/2012 7:30 PM CT Superior (3-0) #3 Southern Valley 41.0357 (15-14) Match 2 10/29/2012 6:15 PM CT #2 Blue Hill 42.8214 (22-7) Hastings St. Cecilia (3-0) Match 4 10/30/2012 7:00 PM CT Blue Hill (3-0) Hastings St. Cecilia

America Deserves Answers on Benghazi

Senator Mike Johanns
 

More than six weeks have passed since a deadly terrorist attack that claimed the lives of four Americans in Benghazi, Libya, and the details of exactly what happened and how U.S. officials responded remain murky. Ongoing discoveries of new information have led the Administration to alter its accounts and raised even bigger questions.

Initial reports revealed the U.S. consulate in Benghazi and a nearby CIA annex came under fire the evening of September 11, 2012. The attack claimed the lives of U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans. Early Obama Administration statements claimed the attack was carried out by protesters angry over a U.S.-produced Internet video. Media reports and official accounts quickly pointed to an organized terrorist attack.

It’s now clear from a series of emails leaked last week that the White House, Pentagon and State Department had real-time updates during the attacks and information suggesting it was a coordinated terrorist attack rather than a protest. It is also clear that officials in Benghazi raised concerns about unchecked extremism and a lack of adequate security months before the attack occurred.

The American people deserve the truth about what happened. That’s why I sent a letter this week to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Leon Panetta asking for a timely, truthful and complete time line of the events, decisions and persons involved in those decisions leading up to and throughout the attacks.

The letter states, “It has been 48 days since the September 11, 2012, terrorist attack on our U.S. consulate and the CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya. It is unacceptable that you have yet to provide a clear accounting of the events and decisions that led to the brutal murders of four brave Americans.” It goes onto say, “American blood was shed at the hands of terrorists. Brave men who dedicated themselves to service and believed their country would stand behind them were left unprotected and brutally murdered. Americans deserve truthful, timely and complete answers. The families of these American heroes deserve answers.”

As a Senator and former Agriculture Secretary, I’ve worked with diplomats around the world. We put patriotic Americans in very tough places, and we need to assure them their security is a top priority. Clearly, mistakes were made here. We need to get to the bottom of this, correct whatever went wrong and hold accountable anyone responsible for carrying out the attacks or impeding a necessary response. It’s also time to stop the delays. The Administration’s actions have given many Americans and the media reason to believe the facts are being withheld until after the election for political reasons. I hope this isn’t the case and releasing the facts now could put these concerns to rest.

September 11 has again become a dark day in American history. This indeed was a terrorist attack—one that left a top U.S. diplomat and three others dead. We must resolve that this will never happen again. A sound response to these events, one that brings guilty parties to justice and prevents future attacks, is the least we can do for the families who lost loved ones and for a country targeted by terrorists.

Quote of the Day

You know what, somebody the other day said to me that this is as bad as Watergate. Well, nobody died in Watergate. But this is either a massive cover-up or an incompetence that is not acceptable service to the American people."

-- Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), in an interview with Face the Nation, on the attack on the U.S. consulate in Libya

Upcoming Events

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

Oct. 27: Nebraska Cattlemen Tailgate, Michigan vs Nebraska, Apothecary Building, Hay Market, Lincoln, NE Contact NC Office 402-475-BEEF (2333)

Nov. 1: Ag at the Crossroads Conference, Lancaster Event Center, Lincoln, NE, 8:30 am, 4:30 PM, Sandy Sterkel at 800-535-3456ssterkel1@unl.edu

Nov. 2-3: Joint Conference Nebraska Dairy Goat Assn. & Nebraska Sheep & Goat Producers Assn, SREC-ARDC, Ithaca, NEcaprizette@hotmail.com

Nov. 3: NE Sheep & Goat Producers Assoc. Conference, ARDC Mead, NE

Nov. 3: 2012 Experience the Power of Red Open House, 9:00 am UNL East Campus,http://casnr.unl.edu/openhouse

Nov. 3-5: Nebraska Youth Beef Leadership Symposium (11th-12th Grade), http://animalscience.unl.edu/web/anisci/ANSCExtensionYouthProgramNYBLS

Nov. 7: District 8 FFA Livestock Judging Contest, Adams County Fairgrounds, Hastings, NE

Nov. 7-8: Fall UNL Research Fair, Nebraska Union, City Campus, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, http://researchfair.unl.edu/

Nov. 9: West Central Extension District Fall Conference, Dawson County Extension Office, Lexington, NE 10:00 am

Nov. 13: Landlord/Tenant Land Cash Lease Workshop, 5:30 pm-9:00 pm, Blue Hill Community Center, Blue Hill

Nov. 22-23: Nebraska Wind Conference, Cornhusker Hotel, Lincoln, NEhttp://www.nebraskawindconference.com/

Nov. 28: 2012 Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) In-service, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, Younes Conference Center in Kearney

Dec. 6 & 8: Webster County Extension Greenery Workshop, Cowles Legion Hall, Contact Carol Kumke, 402-746-3417 orckumke2@unl.edu

Dec. 10: Farmers and Ranchers College, Dr. David Kohl, Bruning Opera House, Bruning, NE 1:00-4:00 pm,brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu

Dec. 11-12: Nebraska Ag Classic, Mid-Town Holiday Inn, Grand Island, contact Ginger Jelinek, 402-450-5189http://www.neagclassic.org

Dec. 14: Nebraska Soybean Day and Machinery Expo, 8:30-2:30, Saunders County Fairgrounds in Wahoo,http://ardc.unl.edu/soyexpo.shtm l

Quote of the Day

"When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us."

~

Alexander Graham Bell

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH

Duane A. Lienemann,
UNL Extension Educator, Webster County
October 26, 2012 Edition

Completion of harvest usually signals the start of Fall/Winter UNL Extension programming and we are almost there considering both. I try to keep up with workshops, clinics and seminars that are of value to farmers, ranchers, agri-businessmen and to anyone interested in agriculture. There are some outstanding events coming up and I think it in order to give you a head’s up on some of the upcoming programs and a description of what you can learn.
2012 Ag at the Crossroads Conference November 1: This annual conference sponsored by the Nebraska Ag Relations Council focuses on Nebraska Ag Economy, Land Values and Use, New Crop Frontiers, Crop markets and Use and how farms and Ag businesses respond to the opportunities and uncertainties of “The New Normal”. The conference will be held on November 1 at the Lancaster Event Center located at 4100 N 84th St. in Lincoln. The registration fee includes a luncheon, break and conference materials. There is a registration fee with the reservation deadline on October 29, 2012.You can call 402-472-1742 or Toll Free to 800-535-3456. A flyer can also be found at www.webster.unl.edu
Registration at the conference will begin at 8:30 am with the conference to start at 9:00 am. Topics and speakers include: Ag Economy and Lending, Farm Credit Services of America; The Next Generation of Ag Leadership, Lee Veermeer, Farmer’s National Company; The Impact of Future Crop Innovations, Tom Hoegemeyer, UNL Agronomy Department and Hoegemeyer Hybrids; The Future of UNL Extension, Chuck Hibberd, Dean and Director of UNL Extension; Nebraska Farm Incomes: Past and Future, Tina Barrett, Nebraska Farm Business Association; U.S. Economic Policies, Distillers’ Grain Exports and the Price of Corn –Will There Be A Second New Normal, Dennis Conley, UNL Ag Economics; Farm and Business Perspective, Michael Goossen, Beatrice Crop Farmer and Co-owner of Prairie Land Dairy and Mark Eisler, Gooch ADM Mills, Lincoln, NE. There will also be an introduction of LEAD fellows.
Landlord/Tenant Workshop in Blue Hill November 13: Developing farm cash leases that meet the needs of both landlord and tenant, while maintaining a positive relationship, is the goal of these workshops. Both tenants and the landlord are encouraged to attend! A team of UNL Extension Educators will be on hand to discuss these topics and provide common sense tips during the presentation. Managing the 2012 drought and implications for 2013 will also be discussed.
Allan Vyhnalek, session presenter and UNL Extension Educator for Platte County, points out that “Putting together the right lease isn’t about what is being discussed at the coffee shop, or what a university survey of cash lease rates says; it is about what fits both the landlord and tenant for their circumstance and situation. Attending this presentation will provide a set of ideas to work from as those specifics are discussed.” Topics include: Expectations from the lease, including goal setting for the rental property; Lease communication, determining appropriate information sharing for both the tenant and landlord; Tips for farm leases that include relatives; Alternative cash lease arrangements, flexible provision considerations for your situation; How the 2012 drought affects leases, irrigation systems, grain bin rental, and other topics related to leases will be discussed as time allows. I know there is a lot of interest in these topics and encourage everyone to attend!
This free workshop is sponsored by the Nebraska Soybean Board and the North Central Risk Management Agency in collaboration with the Farmers & Ranchers College. A meal and handouts are included and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This program will be on November 13, 2012 at the Blue Hill Community Center from 5:30-9:00 p.m. with registration starting at 5:00 a.m. Please RSVP by November 9th. To register, please contact our office at (402) 746-3417 or via email at dlienemann2@unl.edu or ckumke2@unl.edu A flyer is available at www.webster.unl.edu .
National FFA Convention: As I write this column, hundreds of South Central Nebraska FFA youth have joining around 60,000 other people at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. I attended it as an FFA member and then for 30 years as an FFA Advisor. I always enjoyed going and especially getting to expose young people to the great speakers and opportunities for leadership afforded by the conference. It brought back a lot of memories watching it on RFD-TV. This convention marked the 85th anniversary of the FFA.
Whenever I go to a football game or for that matter almost any other sports events, or watch them on television I look for the team mascot and their antics. For the Huskers you find Lil Red and Herbie Husker. Can you believe that now the National FFA has a mascot? The seven foot tall, feathered great horned owl named “Flyte” made his first appearance at the National FFA Convention. Flyte will help spread the message that today’s FFA helps develop knowledge and skills that students need as they prepare for careers in science, business, marketing, food production or any of the more than 300 agriculture-related fields that exist today. It’s taken the National FFA 85 years to finally have a mascot, but already Flyte has his own web site  https://www.ffa.org/Flyte/  and he’s on Twitter @FlyteTheOwl. From what I hear he is a real “hoot’!
Of course I know the significance of the owl as I was stationed by the owl for 30 years as an FFA advisor and was proud to say: “The owl is a time-honored emblem of knowledge and wisdom. Being older than the rest of you, I am asked to advise you from time to time, as the need arises. I hope that my advice will always be based on true knowledge and ripened with wisdom.” I extend my congratulations to the FFA and applaud our local youth who attended. Go Blue & Gold!

The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home

Washington Report: Preserving Rural Mail Service

 

The unofficial motto of the United States Postal Service (USPS), “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds,” is derived from a quote by Herodotus, an ancient Greek historian. However, of all the impediments to mail delivery envisioned, Herodotus never could have imagined the enormous financial obstacles facing the Postal Servicetoday.

Despite the importance of postal service in rural communities, USPS faces significant short- and long-term challenges. New technology has decreased the volume of mail, and USPS does not have the flexibility to adjust to a declining market. As a result, USPS missed a $5.5 billion retiree health care payment on August 1 and defaulted on a $5.6 billion obligation on September 30.

In the coming months, Congress may consider passing a short-term measure so USPS can pay its bills, but ultimately the Postal Service needs robust reforms to address its long-term solvency. These reforms could include allowing for advertisement sales on postal vehicles, and moving to cluster box delivery in both rural and urban communities. Without reform, USPS’ debt will balloon to nearly $100 billion by 2016, and taxpayers will be stuck with the bill.

Some support giving taxpayer dollars to USPS while others have called for closing or consolidating more rural post offices. Neither of these approaches would resolve USPS’ structural problems, and focusing cuts on rural post offices would run counter to the Postal Service’s mission to serve all Americans. According to the Postal Regulatory Commission, closing all of the 10,000 smallest post offices in the country only would save seven-tenths of one percent of the USPS’ operating budget.

To prevent rural post office closures, I have urged the Postmaster General and the House Leadership to consider the impact on communities, jobs, and urgent mail delivery. To this end, I have sponsored an amendment to the House postal reform legislation (H.R. 2309) which would cap rural post office closures at no more than five percent of total closures in any given year, and ensure USPS is taking public opinion into consideration, like those views expressed at more than 30 meetings held throughout the state over the past year.

The Postal Service also is considering reduced retail hours at 13,000 post offices nationwide, including many in Nebraska’s Third District. While preferable to closures, implementation of this proposal should not threaten rural service.

Fortunately, USPS is conducting an evaluation process of the proposed reduced hours over the next two years. The evaluation will include a customer survey mailed to affected zip codes and a public meeting. No changes will be made until after the evaluation process is complete. I encourage all residents who may be impacted by these changes to complete the USPS survey. Doing so will allow the Postal Service to determine the best path forward for individuals and businesses in every community

The Postal Service is facing hundreds of billions of dollars of debt over the next decade, and difficult decisions will have to be made to save this service for millions of Americans who depend on it. Whatever shape postal reform ultimately takes, I will continue to work to prevent cuts in service disproportionately aimed at rural communities to ensure the Postal Service upholds its original mission to serve all Americans.

As always, feel free to forward my e-newsletter to family and friends, or let them know they can sign up to receive updates from my office on my website at: http://adriansmith.house.gov.

Sincerely,

ADRIAN SMITH
Member of Congress

Blue Hill Bobcats defeats Kimball Longhorns 42 to 7

Playing in the coldest temperatures of the season and fighting the wind the Blue Hill Bobcats defeated the Kimball Longhorns with a score of 42 to 7 Thursday night on the Blue Hill home football field.  Again the underclassmen had the oppertunity to get some playing time in. 
The win means that the Blue Hill team will be facing Hershey (4-4) who defeated Perkins Co.  (7-1) in an upset with a score of 27 to 7 in Thursdays first round play off game. 
That game will be played next Wednesday on the Hershey field.  
The winner of next Wednesday game between Blue Hill and Hershey will play the winner of the  Hastings St. Cecilia vs Sutton (8-0) in the following playoff game. 
Blue Hill defeated St. Cecilia at Duncan field in regular season play.
 .
Thayer Central, (5-3)  who gave Blue Hill their only loss of the season was defeated by Hastings. St. Cecilia (5-3)  by a score of 34 to 0 in Thursdays action. 

A Match Made in Husker Heaven

By Senator Ben Nelson

 

Two weeks ago, if you'd asked someone what the Department of Defense and the University of Nebraska had in common, you probably would have been answered with silence. Or maybe (depending on who you asked) you might have heard speculation that Coach Pelini was working on a cutting-edge defense strategy for the next Husker game.
But last week, the University of Nebraska announced its partnership with the United States Strategic Command (STRATCOM), under the command of the Department of Defense, to create a new University Affiliated Research Center (UARC). And now, what was once an odd couple looks like a match made in heaven.
Both STRATCOM and the University of Nebraska have long been powerful economic engines that drive our state. They are cornerstones in Nebraska's identity, and significant players in Nebraska's future. When the need arose for a new national defense research facility, it only made sense to utilize the University of Nebraska's world-class research facilities. Our researchers and their work are as well-known and respected as those of MIT and Johns Hopkins University, and it was a natural move for them to aid STRATCOM to better defend our nation.
Strengthening the Defense
In years to come, we will rely on UARC and STRATCOM more than ever. In the post 9/11 era, as our world continues to grow more interconnected, American ideals and interests will inevitably spread further and will continue to be under siege.
The UARC research institute will work with STRATCOM in the areas of nuclear detection and forensics, the detection of chemical and biological weapons, defense against weapons of mass destruction, consequence management, as well as space, cyber and telecommunications law. The University's faculty members have demonstrated the necessary expertise and research capabilities to advance defense knowledge in all of these fields, and will be able to further their research efforts with the UARC contract award from the Department of Defense.
As STRATCOM plays an increasingly vital role in our nation's security, the University of Nebraska will strengthen STRATCOM's mission of global deterrence, and provide the tools needed to address the challenges and threats of the 21st Century.
Forming a More Perfect Union
In today's digital age, a research facility like UARC does not have to be in close proximity to STRATCOM. It could be located most anywhere in our country with the required research assets and facilities. Yet, I'm not ashamed to say that I pushed hard to get the UARC in Nebraska. Granted, the University of Nebraska has the research assets, but I wanted UARC here in Nebraska, because I took to heart the old saying, "take care of those that take care of you."
Both the University of Nebraska and STRATCOM have and will continue to be beneficial for Nebraska, so I figured that we should bolster them as best as we can. They're major sources of employment, education, community development, and economic growth for Nebraska. They've given quite a bit to our state. So, this was our opportunity to give back to them.
With UARC, Nebraska wins with new jobs and growth, and our country wins, because the University of Nebraska's excellent research talent will help STRATCOM make a safer America. Together, the University of Nebraska and STRATCOM will address the new threats facing our nation head-on, and will contribute significantly to the detection, deterrence and prevention of attacks against the United States.

###

Huskerland Prep features Blue Hill Football player

One on One with Huskerland Prep Report

This Sharp has an Edge

Playing with a sense of purpose, Blue Hill Senior Garrett Sharp is a leader of a close knit team.

By Walter Villa
HPR senior contributor

Wvilla07@yahoo.com Blue Hill running back and inside line backer Garrett Sharp said he felt this Bobcats team was already close but now, due to a tragedy, they’re even closer.

 

On Sept. 5, four people - including Blue Hill students Dustin Tesdahl and Caroline Thallman - died after a school bus and a tractor trailer collided. The crash also claimed the lives of both drivers, Marla Wentworth and Travis Witte.
Sharp said he and Tesdahl were “best buddies” and added that the Bobcats have dedicated their season to the accident victims.
“After what happened,” Sharp said, “like guys on the team have a lot more respect for each other.”

In honor of the four lives lost, Bobcat players are wearing a sticker on their helmets with four crosses.
Two days after the tragedy, the Bobcats played Doniphan-Trumbull and with heavy hearts, defeated the Cardinals, 28-18.
The Bobcats (6-1) haven’t lost since, reeling off six straight wins over all, leading Coach Scott Porter to believe that this might be a special team - perhaps even as good as his 2008 group that won a class C-2 state championship.
Porter said his 2010 and 2011 teams lacked senior leadership. But this years group, led by Sharp is different.
“Garrett’s work ethic in the classroom and on the field is what you wish you had every year, “ Porter said. “The kids all respect him.””
Porter gave an example of their respect from this past off-season.
“It was the last of our two-a-days practices and we were giving the players time off because of how hard they had worked,” Porter said. “Garrett called a team meeting and the next thing you know, he had them on the line, and they’re all running sprints.”
Sharp, a 5-11 180 lb senior who wants to study agriculture in college is a third-year starter at linebacker and a second year starter at running back. He agrees with Porter that the senior leadership had slipped the past two years.
In fact Sharp said he and his classmates started noticing that as freshmen.
“When we got to be seniors, “ Sharp said, “we wanted to create a brotherhood and not have separate groups. We wanted to play as one.”
In that spirit Sharp is quick to credit his blockers for freeing him for 781 yards, a 7.1 average and three touch downs this season.
He also has 56 tackles, including 43 solos, to go with one interception and one fumble on defense.
Last week, though, Sharp missed the Bobcats 36-7 win over Superior due to an MCL strain in his left knee.
He suffered the injury in the first quarter of the previous game. Against Centura, when a defender slammed his shoulder pads into Sharp’s knee.
My foot was planted and my leg was locked. Sharp said. “ I popped right back up, but I could feel my knee was tingling. I thought it was a stinger, so I tried to walk it off.”
Porter said Blue Hill missed Sharp’s leadership last week but were grateful that other players emerged.
That has been a theme all season for the Bobcats who returned only three defensive starters from last season. The offensive line, which lost four starters, also had to rebuild.
Complicating matters even more, Porter switched the offense from an I-formation to a spread attack, in part to better utilize Sharp, who had played fullback the previous year.
The receivers, “ Porter said, half-jokingly “are the happiest they’ve ever been here.”
Porter, a former offensive lineman, said he has always been partial to power football. But this is the first time he has had a 1,000 yard passer and he is enjoying how his team’s new-found balance is putting additional pressure on defenses.
“Overall, this has been a fantastic year, “ Porter said. “The way the kids are coming together has been huge. We couldn’t have asked for a better group of kids.”

Civility in America

With Americans getting tired and frustrated with the personal attacks on canidates by their oponents there is a group trying to bring some civility to the process.  The Knights of Columbus have established a web sie promoting civility in politics.  www.CivilityinAmerica.org. Facebook users can show support by “liking” the petition at www.Facebook.com/CivilityinAmerica. The petition reads: “We, the undersigned citizens of the United States of America, respectfully request that candidates, the media and other advocates and commentators involved in the public policy arena employ a more civil tone in public discourse on political and social issues, focusing on policies rather than on individual personalities. For our part, we pledge to make these principles our own.” “The American people want and deserve civility and a conversation on the issues rather than personal attacks,” said Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. “In our own lives, all of us have friends with whom we disagree, and we long ago learned how to have civil relationships despite our differences. Since our elected officials work for and represent the American people, this petition is a step forward in making our voice heard and in making clear to our public servants how we would like them to conduct themselves.” The campaign finds support in a Knights of Columbus-Marist Poll conducted  that shows that nearly 8 in 10 Americans (78 percent) are frustrated with the tone in politics today. The survey also found that: • Nearly three-quarters of Americans say that campaigns have gotten more negative over the years (74 percent). • Two-thirds of Americans (66 percent) believe that candidates spend more time attacking their opponents than talking about the issues. • By a nearly 20 point margin, Americans believe that campaigns are mostly uncivil and disrespectful (56 to 37 percent). • And nearly two-thirds of Americans say that negative campaigning harms our political process a great deal or a significant amount (64 percent). The telephone survey of 1,010 adults was conducted from July 9, 2012 through July 11, 2012. It has a margin of error within +/- 3.0 percentage points.

Our Constitution Should Not be Ignored

Senator Mike Johanns

I recently joined 41 of my colleagues in supporting a law sut to reign in President Obama's overreach and I appreciate the opportunity to explain why I think it is so important.

Earlier this year, President Obama deliberately sidestepped constitutional rules designed to limit the power of the Executive branch when he appointed three members to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) without seeking confirmation from the Senate.

The Constitution gives the Senate the authority to review and approve presidential appointees. It gives the President the power to make appointments without such approval only when the Senate is out of session. The problem is that when these appointments took place, the Senate was in session. Because the President violated the Constitution when selecting these board members, the NLRB has no legitimate authority to render decisions and all of its actions are rightfully subject to legal challenges.

This may seem like a technicality, but it is in fact a violation of principles enshrined in our founding documents by the President, and it has real-world implications. Noel Canning, a family-owned soft drink bottler, recently lost an NLRB appeal regarding a dispute over a labor agreement. According to the NLRB, the company must now enter into a collective bargaining agreement with a labor union.

The company filed a lawsuit against the NLRB, asserting that, because members of the board were unconstitutionally appointed, it had no authority act. I recently joined 41 of my colleagues in filing an amicus brief in the lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of President Obama’s actions. The case is pending in the U.S. Court of Appeals.

No small business wants to be bossed around by bureaucrats. This ruling by the NLRB could stand alone as another example of this Administration’s fixation with telling small businesses what to do. But what makes this situation particularly disturbing is the unconstitutional manner in which the bureaucrats were appointed, showing blatant disregard for the rules that our nation’s leaders are obligated to abide by.

The contents of the Constitution are not mere suggestions. They are the recipe for a great America. I went through the process of congressional approval when I was appointed Secretary of Agriculture. Having been on both sides, I have a great appreciation for the Senate’s role in the confirmation process. These rules are intended to limit the power of any one branch of government and ensure the voice of the people—through their elected representatives—is heard.

Our Founding Fathers created an ingenious system of checks and balances among the three branches of the federal government to prevent overreach. The President ignored these principles when he circumvented the authority of the Senate. It is now up to the third branch of government—the courts—to employ its checks and balances, and ensure the strength of our nation remains with the people and the principles that founded America.

Ira W. Slater Oct. 21, 2012

Hastings  resident Ira W. Slater, 95, died Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012, at Good Samaritan Society-Hastings Village (Perkins Pavillion).
Services are 10 a.m. Thursday at the United Methdist Church in Blue HIll with the  Rev. Steve Marsh officiating.  Burial with military rites by A.L. Shirley Post #176 of Blue Hill will be at the Blue Hill Cemetery.  There will be no viewing or visitation.  The remains were cremated.  Merten Butler Mortuary in Blue Hill is in charge of arrangements.

Bertha Seeman Lamborn Oct. 22, 2012

Blue Hill resident Bertha D. (Seeman) Lamborn 85 died Monday, Oct 22, 2012 at the Blue Hill Care Center in Blue Hill.
Services are 10:30 a,m, Friday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blue Hill with the Rev. Joshua Lowe officiating.  Burial will be at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Blue Hill.  Visitation is 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.  Thursday at Merten-Butler Mortuary in Blue Hill and one hour prior to services at the church Friday.
Memorials can be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church in Blue Hill, Zion Lutheran School in Hastings and Faith Lutheran Shool in Lincoln.

A Brief Biography of Bertha Delores Lamborn

Bertha Delores Lamborn, 85, of Blue Hill, Nebraska entered her eternal rest into the arms of Jesus on October 22, 2012 at the Blue Hill Care center.

    She was born April 2, 1927 to Christian W. and Augusta Alma (Knehans) Seeman.  She was baptized May 1, 1927 and confirmed May 5, 1940 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Blue Hill, Nebraska.  She atttended Trinity Lutheran Parochial School and graduated from Blue Hill High School.  She married Joseph Lamborn on September 22, 1946,

Bertha was known as a great cook for school childen, family and friends.  She was a member of Trinity Lutheran church and Trinity LWML.

     Bertha is survived by her daughters; Joline and her husband Joe Hafer of Blue Hill, Nebraska, Patricia and her husband Jim Kuhn of Safford, Arizona, Nancy Thyparambil of Lincoln, Nebraska, sons; Joe Lamborn, Jr. of Hastings, Nebraska, Robert Lamborn of Tucson, Arizona, and Shawn and wife Suzy of Safford, Arizona.  Fourteen grand children, 21 great grandchildren and Godson (nephew) Ray Drake of Hume, Missouri.  She also leave two brothers; Chris F and Wife Marlyce Seeman of Littlefield, Texas and Carroll and wife Mary Seeman of Roseland, Nebraska, Sister-in-laws DeloresSeeman of Tecumseh, Nebraska, Grace Custer of Omaha Nebraska, Paulette Lamborn of Hastings, Nebraska and many other relatives. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, her brother Delbert Seeman and her sister Doris Drake.

 

 

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH

Duane A. Lienemann,
UNL Extension Educator,
Webster County
October 19, 2012 Edition

Unless you live under a cabbage leaf, you probably are very much aware that this is an election year. You can hardly not know it, with the barrage of mailings, robo-calls and the continuous barrage of political advertisements on television and radio. I personally can’t wait till this thing is over and we can get back to the normal – boring adds and lame commercials. Don’t worry, I am not going to go into some political discussion on who you should vote for, or go on some sort of politically incorrect rant. However, this election cycle does bring back some bad memories from the primary election in May of 2008 when I witnessed something that I thought I would never see. I want to see if anyone else remembers.
These bad memories stemmed from when Webster County residents voted down the tax mill levy allocation that our fair board filed to fund the county fair. The levy allocation failure could have ultimately doomed the Webster County Fair. The request, which was listed on the ballot as the "Agricultural Association Tax Levy Allocation", failed 464-403. If it had passed, the levy would have funded the Webster County Fair for the fiscal years of 2008-2012. This levy is there to provide money to keep up the fairgrounds, provide the entertainment and amenities for fairgoers and more importantly to me to provide funding for the 4-H and FFA kids in the form of premiums, judges fees and everything it takes to put on our historical county fair. Can you even visualize not having the annual celebration for our county that is the Webster County Fair? That is what we faced, much to the chagrin of our youth and our 4-H and FFA leaders and families.
Since it failed last time around, the Webster County Agriculture Association, or otherwise known as the Webster County Fairboard, had to scramble to find funding for the 2008 fair which came in the form of emergency funds from the county budget, as we had commitments we could not just walk away from. However, the agreement with the Webster County Board of Commissioners was for one year only, so our 4-H and FFA families and other concerned citizens were forced to create and circulate a petition so the levy allocation issue could be put on the November ballot --- and may I add, at a significant cost to the Fair Board. We all worked to get enough signatures to put the issue on the November ballot and it wasn’t really too hard when people figured out what had happened. They just needed to be educated in what it was for and to find out that it wasn’t something new. In reality this request has been the standard for many years and I don’t think that the fair board has ever used the entire amount, so I could not figure out why this was even an issue. I could not believe it!
When I first heard that the tax levy had not passed, I was very discouraged by the apparent lack of support for the county's 4-H and FFA youth and for our beloved Webster County Fair. I know that I was not alone in this, as a lot of people, including individuals in our extension office, fair board members and other volunteers who give of themselves every year to put on the fair, took it as a big "slap in the face". However, after talking to people around the county, we found that the levy failed simply because voters did not realize that the "Webster County Agricultural Association" is the formal name for the Webster County Fair Board, and that the ballot was really "to fund, or not to fund the Webster County Fair”. Everybody I have talked to didn't know what they were voting for, or against. There really was a lot of support for the fair and for the youth! The November vote was overwhelmingly in favor of the funding of our Webster County Fair!
Why do I bring this up? It is four years later and the funding for our Ag Association is on the ballot again. Our voters will once again be given the opportunity to fund, or not fund, our annual county celebration which is the Webster County Fair. I do not want to have to subject our 4-H and FFA kids and their families to the uncertainty of whether or not they will have a fair to show their static exhibits or their animals. They put so much work, time, effort and love into their projects and it is such a good learning environment, that I never want to lose those opportunities for our collective communities that make up the fair. I also know that a lot of other counties face the same thing and encourage the voters in every county who has funding for the county fair on a ballot to understand what they are voting for or against. I don’t want a repeat of this bad dream, or have to try to tell these young people that they will not have a county fair for the first time in over 108 years!
For those individuals in Webster County, you will find the part of the ballot for this important vote labeled under the “County Ticket” and entitled “Webster County Agricultural Association”! It goes on to say “Shall the Webster County Agricultural Association be allowed to levy a property tax not to exceed 2.0 (Two) cents per one hundred dollars of taxable valuation in excess of the limits prescribed by law until and including fiscal year 2017-2018 for the purpose of general operations and Sinking Fund costs of the Webster County fair.” The wording of the ballot this year is more clearly defined as to intentions of this fund, which may help. However, I know that with the state of our economy; allergic reactions to taxes; so many people not understanding the value of our 4-H and FFA youth program, and what they get from participating in the county fair; that we will need the help of all of you that support the kids and the fair to step up; vote for the ballot measure; and encourage others to join them in insuring that we can continue our fair for at least four more years!
“A vote FOR this tax levy shall allow the necessary funding for general operation and sinking fund costs of the Webster County Ag Association to operate the Webster County Fair” I do not want to even want to think what happens if people vote against this levy. Someone else will have to explain to the kids and their families, I won’t have the heart!

The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home

Bruning Applauds Teen Driver Safety Program

 

LINCOLN – Attorney General Jon Bruning today reminds parents and educators of teens to discuss the risks associated with driving. As part of National Teen Driver Safety Week (October 14-20), Bruning is recognizing the efforts of The Century Council and its new teen driver safety program,

I Know Everything.

"Motor vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death of older teens," said Bruning. "It’s imperative they understand the rules of the road are about more than tickets and penalties – roadway laws are about life and death."
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 4,500 teens were involved in fatal crashes across the nation in 2010. In Nebraska, 18 teen drivers were killed in crashes.
Driver inexperience, speed, driver distraction and alcohol are just some of the many factors that contribute to fatal crashes. Drivers under 20 years of age represent the largest proportion of distracted drivers on the road. Of the fatal crashes involving young drivers, 11 percent involved driver distraction.
Attorney General Bruning encourages Nebraskans to talk to the teens in their lives about safe driving. To learn more, visit  www.ago.ne.gov or  www.IKnowEverything.com or  www.centurycouncil.org/other/initiatives/teendrivers.

Blue HIll 62 to Wood River 22

After scoring on the first play of the game the Blue Hill football team went on to defeat the Wood River team by a score of 62 to 22..  The win made Blue Hill the district champions.   Many of the junior varsity got plenty of playing time in this home game. 
http://www.khastv.com/sports/high-school/Football-Highlights-Wood-River-vs-Blue-Hill-175018081.html

Blue Hill will face the Kimball Long horns who are in their first season in Class C2.    The Longhorns are the 13th seed in the west bracket and will play at fourth seeded Blue Hill Thursday.

Kimball, winners of four of its last five games, will enter the playoffs at 4-4. The Bobcats are 7-1. The winner of this first round match-up will move on to play either Perkins County or Hershey.

Games Thursday
West Bracket
Cambridge (3-5) at Sutton (8-0), 5 p.m.
Thayer Central (5-3) at Hastings SC (5-3), 5 p.m.
»At Duncan Field
Hershey (7-1) at Perkins County, at Grant
Kimball (4-4) at Blue Hill (7-1)
Centura (4-4) at North Platte SP (8-0)
Battle Creek (3-5) at West Holt (6-2)
Ravenna (4-4) at Doniphan-Trumbull (6-2)
Southern Valley (3-5) at Crofton (6-1)

Nation Should Learn From Nebraska’s Success

Rep. Adain Smith

The national economy is bleak. Four years after a deep recession, unemployment remains stubbornly high at 7.8 percent, and economic growth has slowed to 1.3 percent. Families and small businesses are struggling to make ends meet. As wages and benefits have been cut, prices of electricity, gas, food, and health care continue to rise. Clearly, we are not headed in the right direction.

Nebraska is a different story. During the recession, our unemployment rate peaked at 4.9 percent, and is now down to 4 percent – about half the national rate. Our state has been recognized as one of the best places to do business in the country because of our competitive tax structure, commonsense regulatory policies, sound infrastructure, quality education, and responsible fiscal policies.
While Nebraska is doing well, there are many families struggling, and the national economy limits the growth of our businesses and the domestic market for our crops, goods, products and services. Nevertheless, our success can serve as a model for other states and the nation.
For example, Nebraska has benefitted from reduced taxes, encouraging companies and families to invest in our state. They can feel confident our rates will not rise because our state budget consistently has remained balanced without tax increases. On the other hand, the federal tax code is complicated and uncompetitive. We face the largest tax increase in American history on January 1, 2013 unless Congress acts to extend the current rates. The national debt has spiked to more than $16 trillion, and there is no plan in place to reduce our deficits, much less balance the budget or pay off our debt.
The federal government should follow Nebraska’s lead to instill confidence and generate economic growth by enacting comprehensive tax reform to simplify the code. We must find a way to solve our long-term budget problems by cutting spending, focusing on our national needs and priorities, and addressing the true cost drivers of our deficits and debt. While the House-passed budget goes a long way toward answering these questions, it has yet to pass in the Democrat-controlled Senate.
Nebraska also enjoys electricity rates about 30 percent lower than the national average, which reduces overhead for energy-intense manufacturing and agriculture and makes it easier for families to pay their bills. To lower energy rates nationwide we need a national energy strategy which takes advantage of our nation’s abundant natural resources, such as coal, oil, natural gas, ethanol, hydro, and wind.
We have such low utility rates in part because our state has a regulatory climate which provides environmental and consumer protection without hurting energy generation, manufacturing, or small business. The same cannot be said for federal agencies, like the EPA, which frequently overreach their authority to impose new regulations which unnecessarily increase the cost of energy.
To address this problem Congress needs to streamline the regulatory code and reassert its authority for the regulatory process. A good place to start would be the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act. This commonsense policy, which passed the House of Representatives last year, would require all new major regulations to pass both chambers of Congress and be signed by the President before being enforced on the American people.
These examples are just a few of the ways Nebraska has achieved relative success compared to the nation as a whole. Washington could go a long way toward putting America back on track, reducing the burden of government, and restoring our promise and potential as a nation if it were to adopt some of our commonsense principles and policies.

Smith Encourages Organizations to Apply to Participate in Inaugural Parade

 

 

Washington, DC – The Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTF-NCR), which is responsible for coordinating the Inaugural Parade for the 57th Presidential Inauguration, has begun accepting applications from organizations wishing to participate in the parade. The Inaugural Parade will take place on January 21, 2013. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) issued the following statement encouraging interested organizations in the Third District to apply:
“The inauguration of a President is not only an historic event, but also a national celebration of our democracy at work. I hope organizations, schools, bands and other groups from the Third District will have the opportunity to be a part of this celebration by applying to participate in the Inaugural Parade.”
Applications can be submitted online at: http://www.2013InaugurationParade.mil, where interested parties also can access additional information about the parade and view detailed instructions for completing and submitting their materials.
All applications will be collected and organized by JTF-NCR for review by the Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC), which will be appointed by the President-elect. The PIC will select which organizations will participate in the parade, and applicants will be notified of the selection or non-selection in mid-December.

###

 

Jeanne M. Bentz July 24, 1951 to October 18, 2012

- Jeanne M. Bentz, 61, of Blue Hill died Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Blue Hill with the Very Rev. James Schrader and the Rev. Thomas Ryan officiating. Private family burial will be at Blue Hill Catholic Cemetery.

Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Sunday at Merten-Butler Mortuary in Blue Hill. There will be no viewing or visitation.

She was born July 24, 1951, at Kearney to Patrick Sr. and Madeline (Ripp) Ryan.

She was raised on a farm north of Axtell. She was blessed with six siblings. She graduated with a nursing diploma in 1972.

Among her greatest blessings were being the mother of Jody Ryan and the wife of Phil Bentz. She was blessed with a large, supportive family.

Jeanne enjoyed dancing, traveling and working with future nurses. Jeanne wanted to consider this a celebration of her life and for all in attendance to wear color.

Memorials are suggested to Catholic Social Services in Hastings or University of Nebraska Foundation Fund No. 74390 (University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing Kearney Division Student Assistance Fund), 2285 S. 67th St., Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68106.

Education Test Results Class C-1, C-2 and Smaller Schools

Governor Dave Heineman

 

Dear Fellow Nebraskans:
The State of Nebraska conducts statewide reading, math, science and writing assessments so that parents, citizens, school boards, superintendents, principals, teachers and elected officials can compare results from one district to another. This data can be very helpful in improving both student and school academic achievement performance.
In the spring of every year, students are tested in grades 3-8 and 11. I would like to congratulate our schools that have excelled academically and the focus of this column is high school academic performance.
For purposes of this comparison, I am reporting school district scores by their sports classification. This column is about C-1, C-2 and smaller school district scores for reading, math, science and writing. Next week’s column will be about Class A and B school districts.
The top scores are as follows:

	Reading	Math
Class C-1	Arlington	Arlington
	Falls City	Chadron
	Ft. Calhoun	St. Paul
	Chase County	Gordon-Rushville
	Boone Central	Chase County
Class C-2	Crofton	Crofton
	Conestoga	Oakland-Craig
	Tekamah-Herman	Humboldt-Table Rock
	Malcolm	Perkins County
	Battle Creek	Wakefield
Smaller Schools	Heartland Community	Bloomfield
	Leyton	Chambers
	Creighton	Wausa
	Hartington	Silver Lake
	Writing	Science
Class C-1	Douglas County West	Arlington
	Columbus Lakeview	Raymond Central
	Auburn	Chadron
	Milford	Chase County
	Arlington	Auburn
Class C-2	Tekamah-Herman	Crofton
	Homer	Elmwood-Murdock
	Twin River	West Holt
	Elmwood-Murdock	Cambridge
	Wisner-Pilger	Malcolm
Smaller Schools	Chambers	Bertrand*
	Freeman	High Plains Community*
	Bloomfield**	Leyton*
	Leyton **	Stuart*
	**tied for third	*tied for first

Among Class C-1 schools, I want to especially recognize Arlington for being first in reading, math and science. They were fifth in writing. Chase County was fourth in reading and science, and fifth in math. Among Class C-2 schools, I want to recognize Crofton for being first in reading, math and science.
We now have three years of reading data and I want to note that among C-1 schools, Chadron, Chase County, Fairbury, Falls City, Ft. Calhoun, Milford, Ogallala and O’Neill have improved their scores every year.
In Class C-2, the following schools have improved their reading scores ever year: Battle Creek, Conestoga, Crofton, Perkins County, Southern Valley, Superior and Tekamah-Herman.
Among smaller schools, Alma, Axtell, Creighton, Elm Creek, Emerson-Hubbard, Loup City, Palmer, Shelby, Southwest and Winside have all improved their reading scores every year.
Data for smaller schools is only being reported for schools with three years of reading scores. Additionally, federal law does not allow education data to be reported publicly if a high school class has 10 or less students.
You can review all of the reading, math, science and writing data for Class C-1, C-2 and smaller schools here.
Class C-1 Reading 2010 2011-2012 (pdf)
Class C-1 Math 2011-2012 (pdf)
Class C-1 2012 Science (pdf)
Class C-1 Writing (pdf)
Class C-2 Reading 2010 2011-2012 (pdf)
Class C-2 Math 2011-2012 (pdf)
Class C-2 2012 Science (pdf)
Class C-2 Writing 2012 (pdf)
Smaller Schools 2010-2011-2012 Reading (pdf)
Smaller Schools - Math 2011-2012 (pdf)
Smaller Schools 2012 Science (pdf)
Smaller Schools Writing 2011-2012 (pdf)

Lt. Gov. Sheehy Announces Nebraska Recognized as Leader in Health Information Technology

(Lincoln, Neb.) Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy today ( Oct. 19) announced The Nebraska Information Technology Commission and two Nebraska health information exchange initiatives have been recognized as national leaders for their efforts to enhance the safety and quality of health care by embracing the use of health information technology. These initiatives are The Nebraska Health Information Initiative (NeHII) and Electronic Behavioral Health Information Network (eBHIN),
“We’re proud of the work being done to improve patient care and are thrilled the effort is receiving national recognition,” said Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy. “Current technologies make it easy and safe for doctors, nurses, pharmacists and others to access more complete patient information at the point of care. It results in fewer errors and means health care providers and their staff can spend more time actually talking with their patients.” Lt. Gov. Sheehy serves as the Chair of the Information Technology Commission.
NeHII is a web-based health information exchange sponsored by Nebraska physicians, hospitals and clinics, and health insurance companies. It provides a system to electronically display personal health and medical information securely between doctors, hospitals, and other health care providers when it is needed for patient care. Twenty-one hospitals in Nebraska and Iowa are participating in NeHII. Participating health systems and hospitals include Alegent Health, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, Methodist Health System, The Nebraska Medical Center, Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital (Hastings), Creighton University Medical Center, Great Plains Regional Medical Center (North Platte), Regional West Medical Center (Scottsbluff), Columbus Community Hospital, and Sidney Regional Medical Center.
eBHIN is one of the country’s first health information exchanges focused on the exchange of behavioral health information. eBHIN is providing health information exchange services to providers in Southeast Nebraska and will be expanding the health information exchange functionality to the Panhandle and Omaha areas. Planning efforts are underway with providers in other areas of the state.
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology is recognizing the achievements of 14 of 56 U.S. states and territories for their use of query-model health information exchange. With over 2,000 users and 2.2 million individuals with patient information in the system, NeHII is one of the country’s largest health information exchanges. Additionally, eBHIN is pioneering the use of health information exchange to facilitate care coordination for behavioral health clients in Nebraska.

Johanns Statement on EPW Report on Economic Pain of Obama-EPA Regulations Johanns Statement on EPW Report on Economic Pain of Obama-EPA Regulations

 

WASHINGTON –Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) Ranking Member James Inhofe (R-Okla.) today released a report on rules proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Obama Administration but delayed due to their harmful economic impact until after the election. The report, "A Look Ahead to EPA Regulations for 2013: Numerous Obama EPA Rules Placed On Hold until after the Election Spell Doom for Jobs and Economic Growth," and a list of the delayed rules can be viewed HERE.

“The impact of these policies will be felt by all Americans whether they are paying their electric bill or filling up their tank or their grocery cart,” said Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.), a member of the EPW committee. “This EPA has actively fought for policies that make it increasingly harder for families to get ahead and many of these policies have unfortunately been focused on rural America and family farms. As our nation continues to struggle to get back on track, the Administration and the EPA should work to help our economy grow – not to make it harder to find a job and make ends meet.”

The report focuses on the numerous rules and regulations the Administration and EPA have delayed or postponed acting on until next year. The report finds the numerous rules will cost millions of Americans jobs, drive up the price of energy, shut down American energy reserves and impose construction bans on local communities.

For more information on Johanns’ work to fight overbearing government regulations, click HERE.

Family Hunting Like it Used to be Here in Nebraska!

 

Family hunting like it used to be is alive and well here in Nebraska! Deer and turkey permits for adults are more plentiful and available than ever. And for the kids, deer and turkey permits are only $5 (that’s right – five dollars). There is no minimum age for turkey hunters, making for a perfect “first hunt" opportunity. Our deer and turkey populations are at historic highs. We have both whitetail and mule deer, plus three subspecies of turkeys (Merriams, Eastern, and Rio Grande). Other reasons to hunt Nebraska include… No minimum age for turkey hunters - a perfect "first hunt" opportunity Long fall turkey season runs through December 31 Deer and turkey populations at historic highs Up to 2 youth fall turkey and 2 youth deer tags per hunter Youth permits are good for whitetail or mule deer Bonus antlerless whitetail tags are included on youth deer permits

Melva Stertz April 16, 1921 to October 18, 2012

91 year old Melva Stertz of Edgar passed away on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at the Rose Brook Care Center in Edgar, Nebraska.

Funeral services will be held this Tuesday 2:00 PM, October 23, 2012 at the Church of the Plains, Edgar.
Rev. Lee Wigert will be officiating.
Burial will be held in the Sutton Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.wmsfh.com. Williams Funeral Home of Edgar, NE is in charge of the arrangements.

Melva was united in marraige to Lloyd Henry Stertz on February 18, 1942 at Belleville, KS. This union was blessed with the birth of three sons, Clark, Dale and Gary. Melva farmed along side her husband Lloyd south of Sutton for 5 years then moving north of Edgar in 1950 where the couple remained and called their home.

Survivors inculude: sons: Clark Stertz and wife Deb of Edgar, NE; Dale Stertz and wife Marilyn of Hickman, NE; Gary Stertz and wife Bonnie of Blue Hill, NE; 7 grandchildren, 9 great grand children and other relatives.

Williams Fuenral Home
Edgar Chapel

Ph [402] 224 5315

Anna A. McCoy Sept. 16 1920- Oct. 16 2012

Anna A. McCoy, 92, of Red Cloud, Nebraska died Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at the Heritage Care Center in Red Cloud.
Anna A. McCoy, the daughter of Celea (Stesanski) and Fredrick Pride, was born Sepember 16, 1920. She departed this life on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at the Heritage Care Center in Red Cloud at the age of 92 years and 1 month.

Anna received her formal education attending school in Columbus, Ohio. She was united in marriage with Lawrence B. McCoy and this union was blessed with four children, George, Raymond, Bruce and Lydia. While living at New Castle, Nebraska Anna was employed for period of time as a telephone operator. In 1966, they moved to Cowles, Nebraska to make their home, and on January 28, 1976, her husband preceded her in death.

Anna's personality was pervaded by a warm and sincere smile and her interest and concern about family and friends. She was committed to her faith and convictions to help whenever called upon. She possessed a passion for music and while living in Ohio, she volunteered her time and talents as an evangelistic singer at the Ohio State Penitentiary.

Just this past September, she was blessed to celebrate her 92nd birthday with over fifty family and friends while being treated at the hospital. As it turned out, Anna wasn't just a patient at the hospital, but true to her depth of character she was like a mother to many that worked there.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Lawrence and a sister, Lydia.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: George B. McCoy and wife Annie of Oregon; Raymond McCoy and wife Linda of Wyoming; Bruce McCoy and wife Nancy of South Dakota; and Lydia McCoy Fick of Bellevue, Nebraska. Also surviving are 15 grandchildren: Autumn McCoy, Evie Underwood and husband Chris, Jason McCoy, Shelly Altena and husband Harley, Shawna Anderson and husband Deric, Stefanie Capek and husband Jason, CR and Kristen McCoy, Eric McCoy and wife Jennica, Mary Pearson and husband Jason, David McCoy and wife Mary Jo, Andrew McCoy and wife Janae, Angela Fick, Melissa Riemer and husband Mark, and Daniel Fick; 23 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; a brother Fred Pride and wife Wanda of Wichita, Kansas; step-grandchildren Steve and Kellie; also tresured by Anna as though family are John, Chris, Janelle and Bobbi Lehan; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, 10:30 a.m., October 20, 2012 at the Revival Tabernacle Church in Red Cloud with Pastor Darrell Sutton officiating.

Visitation will be held Thursday and Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Williams Funeral Home in Red Cloud.

Williams Funeral Home
241 West 4th Avenue
Red Cloud, Nebraska 68970

402-746-2500
williamsfuneralhomes@yahoo.com

Blue Hill Bobcats take TVC title in Win over Deshler Dragons.

The Blue Hill Volley ball team ( 19-7)  defeated  Deshler"s team (15 -6)  in three sets, 25-18, 23 -12 and 25 -15 in on their home court  Monday.  The win gave the Bobcats the TVC title.  Junior Maci Coffey led the charge with 20 kills.  Sophomore Mackenzie Willicot added 11 and junior Hannah Ockinga had eight kills.
Blue Hill has just one more competition on the regular season schedule  -  a home triangular with Axtel and Kenesaw. 

In Consolation play Silver Lake defeated Lawrence-Nelson to take third place in the tournament.

Washington Report: Picking the Right Medicare Plan

 

Congressman Smith tours the SubConn manufacturing facility in Burwell. The company builds underwater connectors and sensors used in the military, on oil rigs, and even during the Olympic Swim trials.

 

Washington Report: Picking the Right Medicare Plan

Every year, to ensure continued competition on premiums and benefits among insurers, seniors have the opportunity to switch their current Medicare Part D prescription plan. This time is called “open enrollment.” It is important to note Medicare beneficiaries satisfied with their current coverage do not have to take any action during the open enrollment period. However, it is strongly recommended all Medicare enrollees review their options to ensure the plan they are in remains the best plan to meet their needs.

“Open enrollment”for the Medicare Prescription Drug Program runs from October 15 to December 7, 2012. As with many government programs, maneuvering through all the conflicting information and red tape can be confusing and frustrating. It can be difficult for seniors to decide which plan is the best for them and their health needs.

I want to make sure all seniors have access to the best information. I invite seniors to attend my Senior Services Fair at the Grand Generation Center, 304 East 3rd Street in Grand Island on Thursday, October 18, 2012 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. (CT). At the fair, seniors and caregivers will be able to meet with and ask questions directly to Medicare experts. In order to find the plan which best meets their needs, attendees should bring a complete list of their prescriptions including dosing information.

Officials from the Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) will be on hand to consult individually with seniors to help them select the best plan for their needs. Experts also will be available to answer questions about Social Security and veterans benefits. Prescription drug information will be provided from licensed pharmacists, and free blood pressure screenings also will be available.

There are other ways to review and select a Medicare Part D plan for those unable to attend the Senior Services Fair. Visit:http://www.Medicare.gov to learn about different options, check your current enrollment, and apply for a plan. You also can call Medicare and speak to an expert directly by dialing 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

My staff and I are always here to help answer questions and connect Nebraskans with the right resources and information. Those needing assistance with Medicare coverage, or any other federal program, can call my office anytime.

Medicare is an essential program to millions of Americans, especially in rural areas with an aging population – like the Third District of Nebraska. It is important for me not only to help today’s seniors have the coverage they depend on, but also to ensure future generations have access to the benefits they paid for and have been promised.

Medicare Part D is evidence competition among providers can make Medicare as a whole more sustainable. Due to competition and price negotiation by participating insurers costs have come in 43 percent less than originally estimated. We can save Medicare without affecting benefits for today’s seniors by reforming the program in the future with more choice, flexibility and competition.

It is important seniors know their options when it comes to Medicare. I hope the Senior Services Fair in Grand Island on October 18th, and the resources available through my office will help seniors across the Third District choose the right plan for them.

Sincerely,

ADRIAN SMITH
Member of Congress