Paul W. Petska , Sr. Obituary

Hastings resident and former Blue Hill businessman, Paul W. Petska, Sr., 80, passed away Monday, October 19, 2009 at Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital. Rosary will be Thursday, October 22, 2009; 7:30 P.M. at Butler-Volland Chapel, and Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, October 23, 2009; 10:30 A.M. at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church with Father Joseph M. Walsh officiating. Burial with military rites will be in the Ord City Cemetery on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. Visitation will be Wednesday, October 21, 2009; 3:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M., Thursday, October 22, 2009; 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. at Livingston-Butler-Volland Funeral Home; and Friday, October 23, 2009, one hour prior to service at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church, Good Samaritan Village of Hastings, or the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Blue Hill, Nebraska. Paul was born to Stanley and Mary Ann (Adamek) Petska in Ord, Nebraska. He graduated from Ord High School in 1947. After high school he worked on the family farm, the Farmers Store in Ord, and then went to work for Safeway. On June 12, 1951 he married the love of his life, Geneva Benson. He received his orders to report to service the same day and spent three years serving in the Korean War. He was in the U.S. Army from July 3, 1951 until June 11, 1953, and was in basic training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Paul served as a Surgical Orderly in Germany. A son, Paul Jr., was born while overseas. Upon return from active duty, Paul was employed by Safeway Stores and the couple lived in Ord, Cozad, and Grand Island. Four more children were born, Jack, Cynthia, Kim, and Mark. In 1970, they purchased a grocery store in Blue Hill and ran P & G Market for 18 years. They semi-retired in 1988, managing the X-L Motel in Hastings for three years. Paul then worked part-time for Herbergers until he became ill. Paul truly enjoyed his family along with fishing, hunting, bowling, and especially polka dancing with his wife. After retirement he spent as much time as possible with his grandchildren. Family reunions, special occasions, and holidays with his family were a priority in his life. Paul was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cynthia Sue; and three brothers, Richard Petska, LaVerne Petska, and Stan Petska. Survivors include:Wife: Geneva Petska – Hastings, NE Children & Spouses: Paul Petska, Jr. – Hastings, NE Jack Petska – Blue Hill, NE Mark & Rita Petska – Blue Hill, NE Kim & Greg Beam – Fremont, NE Grandchildren: Amanda Petska, Nathan Petska, Amelia Petska, Brianna Beam, Brennan Beam, Step-Granddaughter: Desiree Pierce – Kansas City, MO Sisters: Lorene Meese – Ord, NE Mary Ann Larson – Republican City Betty Kusek – Boring, OR , Sisters-in-law: Lois Petska – Hershey, NE Mary Petska – Portland, OR Many nieces & nephews.

Senator's Column by Mike Johans

October 19, 2009 Back Door Deals Undermine Democratic Process Dear Nebraskans, Part of what makes our country great is the transparency that exists between citizens and their government. We make laws at the will of the American people; therefore it's your right to be as informed as possible about the laws that will significantly impact your life. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that the health care reform debate will permit this level of transparency. Since the pertinent committees have passed their versions of the legislation, they must now be blended into one bill. This is where our transparent democratic process gets clouded by special interests and private deals, hidden from view from the public. For the next step, Democrat leaders, Democrat Committee chairs, and even the White House will deliberate in closed-door policymaking sessions. It appears the bipartisan minority will not be invited to the table. The real outrage lies in the back-room deals these meetings will produce. This isn't a hypothetical. This is what's actually happening in Washington to shape health care reform. We're already seeing it. For instance, under current proposals to pay for an expansion of Medicaid, the federal government will pass $37 billion in costs onto states already struggling to balance their budgets. Yet recently a deal was hatched for Nevada and four other states to have their entire Medicaid expansion costs paid for by the federal government. Furthermore, current proposals also levy a tax on high-value insurance plans-except in New York and a few other states where similar insurance plans are exempted from taxation. Why is it okay for Nevadans and New Yorkers to benefit from carve-outs while those in Nebraska and elsewhere foot the bill? Unfortunately, some promote true reform when the cameras are on, but cut special interest deals once the doors are shut. The fate of health care reform now lies in the hands of a few members of Congress, with little accountability or transparency. These deals will be occurring at a time when our budget deficit is soaring to a record $1.4 trillion for 2009-that's triple the amount of money we borrowed in 2008. It's an injustice that this deficit could increase further because of decisions made behind closed doors. After all, this is indeed a government, as so movingly put by Abraham Lincoln, "of the people, by the people, for the people." The bottom line is this: closed-door deal-making undermines our democratic form of government and manipulates the budget process to hide the true costs. It is a disservice to the American people. I imagine the product that emerges from that room will be loaded with special carve-outs at the expense of taxpayers. I support reform that increases access to insurance, brings down premiums, and provides care for pre-existing conditions. I support subsidies for those who truly cannot afford insurance to help them buy down premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. I support real malpractice reform that would curb costs by reducing defensive medicine. But I do not support "reform" that results from back-room deals and broken promises.

Governor's Column by Dave Heineman

A New Century Begins at UNO

Oct. 19, 2009 Dear Fellow Nebraskans: The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) this year marked 100 years of academic excellence in our largest city.

As UNO completes a year-long centennial celebration honoring its past, the campus continues to build and plan for the future. The largest of several projects currently underway include the creation of a new $30 million College of Business Administration building on the old Aksarben racetrack property. Known as Mammel Hall, it will be a cutting-edge and environmentally-friendly building ready for students next September.

UNO officials expect this and other new campus buildings, including a renovated recreation facility, to help attract even more students in 2010.

More than 15,300 students chose to become Mavericks. While 90 percent of UNO’s students are from Nebraska, students from around the world also come to Omaha. More than 1,300 of UNO’s students are from 117 countries, with international students and scholars contributing more than $29 million to the local economy each year.

Other facts and figures on the current student body indicate that more than half of all UNO students are the first in their families to pursue higher education. To help make the transition from high school to college more comfortable, UNO leaders have developed learning communities, such as the Goodrich, Honors and the Thompson Scholarship Program, that provide a support system to help students new to the college environment. These support systems have been shown to increase the likelihood of student success.

Since the 1999-2000 school year students receiving degrees from UNO are up 25 percent. In 2008, 2,735 students received a UNO diploma. Statistics show that most of these graduates have made career and life choices that keep them in Nebraska. Of the 70,000 living UNO alumni, nearly 60 percent currently live in Nebraska with more than 50 percent of these residing in the Omaha area. The university’s annual total economic impact for the state is calculated to be more than $2 billion.

UNO’s impact extends beyond dollars to include partnerships with non-profit organizations, governments and businesses that help improve the quality of life for UNO students and Omaha residents. These partnerships provide students with real-world experiences through internships and a wide variety of service projects. Some of Omaha’s largest corporations have enjoyed having UNO students in their organizations for years. UNO’s Nebraska Business Development Centers have helped more than 375 rural Nebraska communities create or save more than 2,400 jobs.

I’m very proud of the work being done under the leadership of UNO Chancellor John Christensen and his team. Each of the four University of Nebraska campuses has a unique mission and UNO has committed to providing a dynamic and diverse higher education experience for students. With the majority of UNO graduates remaining in Nebraska and contributing to our state’s economic vitality, it’s clear that UNO students are mastering the academic skills needed to be successful in their future careers.

Congressman's Column by Adrian Smith

"Czars" Need to be Held Accountable Presidents always have surrounded themselves with advisors and counselors. Beginning with President George Washington, these individuals play an important role in public and foreign policy. To date, the Obama Administration has appointed more than 30 new advisors to oversee various industries and governmental functions. Though each position has its own official title, these advisors have been commonly referred to as "czars" for their large areas of oversight responsibility. For example, the President has appointed advisors to oversee U.S. energy policy, border security, stimulus accountability, and safe schools, among numerous others. These positions are in addition to his Cabinet and sub-Cabinet. Though czars have offered advice and counsel to presidents since the administration of President Richard Nixon - who appointed the first "Drug Czar" - through President George W. Bush and while these appointments claim to provide more government oversight, the recent expansion and increased numbers of czars represent an unnecessary expansion of the federal government and its bureaucracy. Moreover, there must be more transparency regarding the job functions of these advisors, particularly because many of these individuals - unlike Cabinet secretaries, judges and other presidential appointments - have bypassed Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which mandates the advice and consent of the Senate when the President appoints principle officers. Specifically, the article reads the President "shall nominate, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States." Without this oversight, answers to important questions about a person's motivations, professional conflicts, and qualifications are not known at least until a czar is already ensconced in office. Especially in these tough economic times, taxpayers deserve to know what these new offices are costing. The median czar salary, paid out of the White House's administrative fund, is $172,000. Each office also includes a staff and transportation and travel budgets. Recently a number of controversies have arisen over several of the czars appointed by President Barack Obama, drawing attention away from important issues such as health care reform and economic recovery. Van Jones, the Administration's "green jobs" czar, created a firestorm in September when - among other revelations - it was shown he signed a petition asserting the American government had foreknowledge and was complicit in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Jones stepped down amid heavy criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. I have heard from many of my constituents echoing my concern our country is turning too much power over to individuals who were not elected by the people and who do not answer to Congress. With this in mind, I have cosponsored H.Con.Res. 185, which requests the President report to Congress the responsibilities and qualifications of each of his czars. Another bill I support, the Czar Accountability and Reform Act (H.R. 3226), would prohibit the use of funds to pay either expenses or salaries of members of task forces, councils, or similar offices established by the President without the advice and consent of the Senate. The Constitution of the United States grants Congress the responsibility to advise and consent in numerous areas of public policy, including the appointment of high ranking officials by the President. It is important Congress live up to that responsibility to ensure the American public knows exactly who is helping craft the policies which govern our nation.

Senator's Column by Mike Johans

October 13, 2009 Flawed Health Care Plan Would Affect Many Nebraskans Dear Nebraskans, As I write to you, the Senate Finance Committee has acted on the latest version of health care reform. I continue to believe we need to reform our health care system to bring down rising costs and shore up our delivery system. Paying for this reform is a big part of the debate. While tough financial decisions will have to be made, they must be made wisely. Therefore, it's important to look beyond Washington to determine how these decisions will affect you and all Americans, and your ability to access quality health care. In particular, I'm concerned about the proposed Medicare and Medicaid program cuts being targeted to pay for this legislation. Specifically, the proposal passed by the Finance Committee outlines more than $517 billion in cuts to current Medicare and Medicaid programs. These cuts will affect the quality of care in Nebraska. For example, more than $40 billion in cuts would be made to home health care services. Home health provides skilled nursing care and other health care services in the home to individuals who have an illness or injury. Preliminary estimates reveal two-thirds of Nebraska's home health agencies will lose money if these cuts become reality. Rural areas would fare worse, where an estimated 80 percent of home health agencies would be operating in the red. According to the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, Nebraska home health agencies can expect to lose more than $126 million over ten years under this legislation. Hospice, which provides care for the terminally ill, is another Medicare program targeted for cuts. Currently, 97 percent of Nebraskans have access to 38 hospice programs across the state. However, under the proposed legislation, hospice programs nationwide could see $8 billion in cuts by 2019, an 11.8 percent reduction in hospice reimbursements. Nebraska hospice providers could be forced to reduce service areas, leaving portions of Nebraska without hospice care. These cuts would not be welcome news in Nebraska. A 2007 study shows nearly 100 percent of Nebraskans believed it was important that the terminally ill have the choice to die at home and 83 percent felt it was important to have health care professionals come to their home. Many Nebraska hospitals are in the Finance Committee's bullseye. $45 billion in cuts are outlined for hospitals that serve a disproportionate share of Medicare and Medicaid patients. This includes nearly half of all Nebraska hospitals, which are already underpaid by current government programs and are struggling to stay open. These facilities would face up to $145 million in cuts, which would undoubtedly affect health care for Nebraskans. If there is waste or fraud in the Medicare and Medicaid programs we must address it, but we must ensure access to quality care and services is not compromised. Savings found by eliminating waste or fraud should be reinvested in the programs to address their pending bankruptcy. I'll continue to examine these proposals, carefully assessing how Nebraskans are impacted by the decisions made in Washington.

Governor's Column by Dave Heineman

Get to Know the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services

Oct. 16, 2009 Dear Fellow Nebraskans: The mission of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services is to serve and protect the public by providing humane care and program opportunities to the 5,300 inmates and parolees placed in its custody. The department’s chief responsibility is to protect Nebraska citizens. Correctional officers and staff fulfill this duty through the operation of safe, secure, clean, and orderly prisons and community centers, and by offering programs and treatment that reduce the rate of reoffending behavior.

One of the major achievements within the department is an effort that has more than doubled the number of substance abuse treatment beds at correctional facilities, and developing new male and female acute mental health care units that provide clinical services to violent and sex offenders.

Both initiatives target high-risk inmates with programs and services designed to reduce the likelihood of individuals returning to prison. Inmates diagnosed with substance abuse issues receive treatment that prepares them for less restrictive facilities and, then, as a step back into society upon their release or parole. By addressing substance dependence issues and other factors, these services help reduce the likelihood of future offenses and recidivism by help inmates develop skills to live a responsible life.

Research shows a correlation between the lack of education and incarceration. Another significant and successful effort within the department has been the expansion of educational services.

With the help of the Nebraska Department of Education, the Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility became a special purpose high school. The focus on inmate education has produced a dramatic increase in the number of students completing their General Educational Development (GED) test. By offering opportunities for inmates to obtain their GED or high school diploma, corrections officials are helping inmates develop the skills to become law-abiding, responsible citizens. These skills have a direct impact on lowering recidivism.

Inmates have jobs assignments during their incarceration. Whether working in prison food service, being part of maintenance and grounds crews, or sewing clothes as part of the Cornhusker State Industries program, inmates are expected to fulfill the responsibilities that come with their jobs. The department offers meaningful opportunities for inmates to learn job skills essential for the majority of inmates who will one day look for employment in our communities.

Inmates earn a daily wage beginning at $1.21 a day. Five percent of wages paid are placed into individual accounts to use upon release or parole. All inmate amenities like TV, radios, recreation equipment, and self-improvement activities are paid for by inmates or through profits generated by commissaries at state facilities. Those employed in private industry jobs pay taxes and deposit an additional five percent of their wages in the State’s Victim Compensation Account.

As a result of these and many other efforts, Nebraska has one of the lowest incarceration rates in the nation and a corrections budget that, as a percentage of the state budget, is one of the lowest in the country. The low confinement rate is due in large part to the low return rate of inmates released from Nebraska prisons, which compares very favorably to a recent national study.

The Department of Correctional Services remains committed to keeping our state safe by providing security and care for Nebraska’s prison population.

Congressman's Column by Adrian Smith

72 Hours is Not Too Long to Read the Bill Congress has the responsibility to craft reasonable legislation which serves the American public. Many of the issues Congress deals with on a regular basis are simply too important to be rushed. Unfortunately, Members of Congress are too often asked to make decisions on bills which can have more pages than major novels with only a few hours to actually read them. On at least two dozen occasions in the 111th Congress, accepted transparency rules have been shelved in order to rush legislation to a final vote. These hasty votes can have severe consequences, such as the provision tucked into the Troubled Assets Relief Act (TARP) - a trillion-dollar package passed in just 15 hours - which had the effect of authorizing retroactive bonuses to executives of bailed-out insurance giant AIG. According to the Sunlight Foundation, this year 24 pieces of legislation have been passed in less than 72 hours - including the Medicare Premium Fairness Act (7 hours), Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act (10 hours), and legislation to impose an additional tax on the bonuses awarded by TARP to the very AIG executives described above (11 hours). I voted against such legislation as the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act and the Auto Industry Financing and Restructuring Act in part because these spending measures were passed with haste and lacked the transparency in which sound legislation should be crafted. The stimulus package which spent $790 billion (and which clocked in at 1,073 pages) wasn't posted on the government's website until after 10:00 p.m. the day before final passage. The infamous cap-and-trade legislation included a 316-page amendment added at 3:09 a.m. on the day of its passage. When Minority Leader John Boehner attempted to educate his fellow members by reviewing passages before the final vote, he was criticized for holding up the debate. On June 17 a resolution was introduced to require legislation be available on the Internet for 72 hours before consideration by the House of Representatives. This measure (H.Res. 554) emerged in response to Congress passing the rushed, unsound legislation I have described above, which has radically expanded the government's role in our everyday lives and intruded on our free-market system. The legislation would require all non-emergency legislation to be posted online, in final form, for at least 72 hours prior to a floor vote. Like many of my constituents, I believe Members of Congress should be given enough time to properly read and evaluate legislation before voting. This bipartisan resolution merits consideration, and I have joined 182 of my colleagues in signing a discharge petition which, with 218 signatures, would automatically place H.Res. 554 on the House schedule for a vote, moving it out of the committee in which it has been languishing for months. The "read the bill" push has gained the support of an overwhelming majority of Americans, government watchdog groups, and a bipartisan group of elected officials. Both parties have been guilty of rushing through legislation without giving Members of Congress and the American people an opportunity to actually read the legislation before it is brought up for a final vote. Now we have a bipartisan solution. It is an effort to bring greater accountability and transparency to how Congress spends the taxpayers' money. The American people and their representatives should have a reasonable opportunity to read a bill and understand its impact and cost before a vote occurs. With health care reform legislation making its way through Washington, having the opportunity to review the legislation and to hear from constituents is not a luxury - it is a necessity.

Bobcat Youth finish season at 4-1

The Blue Hill Bobcat Youth Football team completed their season with an 18-14 win over Hildreth-Wilcox. The Bobcats struck almost immeadiately when James Fuller ran for a 40 yard touchdown strike on the Bobcat's first possession. Kyl Rouse carried for the 2 point conversion. The Bobcats scored again early in the second quarter on a 40 yard run by Jayden Hamel. Adam Krueger caught the pass from Austin Rose for the 2 point conversion. Hildreth-Wilcox scored later in the quarter and the bobcats took a 16-8 lead into half-time. The Bobcat defense increased the lead to 18-8 early in the third quarter with a safety. The Bobcats mishandled two punts, including the punt following the safety, and had three fumbles during the second half to allow Hildreth-Wilcox to stay in the game. Hildreth-Wilcox scored on a double reverse in the 4th quarter to make the final score 18-14.

Mayor Schunk taps Albert Gray for Open Council Seat

Blue Hill Mayor, Keri Schunk nominated Albert Gray to fill the City Council seat recently vacated by recalled councilman Andy Alber. Schunk made her nomination at the Blue Hill City Council meeting on Tuesday, October 13. The council voted unanimously to approve the nomination. Gray will serve the remainder of Alber's term which expires in December of 2010. Three council seats currently held by Mark Petska, Jesse Alber & Albert Gray will all be up for election in 2010. Candidates for these seats have until March 1, 2010 to file to have their names placed on the ballot for the state wide primary election on May 11, 2010. Candidates may file in either the office of the city or county clerk. The top 6 candidates receiving votes in the primary election will have their names on the ballot for the November 2 general election.

Straight from the Horse's Mouth

Duane A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator, Webster County October 16, 2009 Edition We have been seeing an influx the last several years of winter annuals that have worked their way into lawns, garden areas and even crop fields. Those lawn weeds in the winter annual category include that ugly purple flowered plant called Henbit, as well as Chickweed, Black Medic, Oxalis, Pepperweed, and White Clover. Winter annual broadleaf weeds in crop fields include the same Henbit we find in lawns, as well as Marestail and several species of Mustards, such as Field Pennycress, Shepherds Purse, Tansy Mustard, Blue Mustard, etc. What makes this weed a “Winter Annual” is that it germinates in the fall, overwinters as a green plant, begins growing again in early spring, then completes their life cycle and go to seed in the spring or early summer. These weeds have become more of a problem each year and in fact Henbit was all over the place last spring and I expect to see even more this year. One of the most often asked questions for lawns and crops is “When is the best time to control these weeds?” Well, right now or even a little later is a pretty good answer. According to Dr. Bruce Anderson, UNL Forage Specialist, the best time to apply post-emergent control measures to winter annuals is in the fall when the seedling plants are small and the plant has not had time to store much energy in the root system. Timing is not critical, so there is an extended window to apply herbicides especially when harvest may be a little late for crop producers. Best control will be achieved if daytime temperatures are above 60 degrees, but good control can be obtained even when temperatures are in the 50s most years. Anderson indicates that too often, farmers and/or homeowners wait until spring to attempt control of winter annual weeds. Unfortunately, several factors are working against you in the spring. In the early spring, the weather is more unpredictable. It can be warm one day and cold the next. Another factor is the growth stage of winter annual weeds. In the spring, winter annuals are in the reproductive mode. They bolt quickly, flower and before you know it, they are setting seed. The plant is larger with a more developed root system and is flowering, so is less likely to receive a lethal dose of herbicide from your application. In the fall, the weather usually is more cooperative and weeds are in the rosette, or vegetative stage and more susceptible to herbicides. Winter annuals can typically be sprayed from late September to early December, weather permitting. As far as rates are concerned, fall applications typically require less herbicide and thus are less expense. Make sure that you follow label rate recommendations and remember that Atrazine is not labeled for fall application in Nebraska. The common winter annuals can be readily controlled with the following products: Crop production field applications: 1.5 to 2 pints of 2,4-D ester per acre ; 1 pint 2,4-D and 4 ounces dicamba per acre; 24 ounces of glyphosate per acre; 1 pint 2,4-D and 16 ounces glyphosate per acre. Home lawn applications: selective, 3-way products, such as Trimec, Triamine or Ortho Weed-B-Gon, containing herbicides like 2, 4-D, dicamba and MCPP. Since we are talking controlling weeds, how about those thistles? Gosh I wish I had a dollar for every one of those evil things I have cut or dug up. Well, timing is everything and that's particularly true with thistle control. October to early November is one of the best times to use herbicides for thistle control. If you had a thistle problem this year, check infected areas for the small, flat rosette seedlings typical of fall growth. Seedlings are especially sensitive to certain herbicides and are more effectively controlled in the fall so this time of year is perfect to control them. There are several products out there. Milestone, one of the newer herbicides, is very effective from tests that I have seen. Two other effective old standby herbicides are of course Tordon 22K and Grazon. You need to be careful with them however, as they can also kill woody plants, including trees. While it’s still warm 2,4-D will work well, but you will get better thistle control by using a little less 2,4-D and adding a small amount of Banvel or other dicamba product to the mix. Herbicides to help control thistles in pastures include Redeem, Ally, Curtail. When using any of these herbicides, read and follow label instructions, and be sure to spray on time. Next year, avoid overgrazing these pastures so stands thicken and can better compete with thistles. Now is a great time to go after those winter annuals and thistles. Last but certainly not least I want to point out several upcoming programs that you my want to attend if at all possible. If you are interested in any of these programs please contact the # provided, or our office and we will get the info to you. “Ag at the Crossroads Conference” – Agriculture and the Environment, Animal Welfare, Social Media; Thurs., Nov. 5, at Lancaster Events Center in Lincoln for info contact the Nebraska Ag-Relations Council @ 402-472-2821 “Nebraska Wind Power 2009 Conference” - Mon., Tues, Nov. 9-10th , at the Holiday Inn Conv. Center in Kearney for registration and information contact: Terri Donahue at Nebraska Farmers Union - 402-476-8815 “2009 Beef Producer Roundup Tour” – Wed - Thurs, December 2nd & 3rd: Meet the bus at 8 am, North Platte; 9 am at KRVN in Lexington; 10:00 am Kearney at NE Beef Council Office on 2nd. Call Ne Beef Council - 800-421-5326 “The Pulse of the Ag and General Economy" - Featuring Dr. David Kohl of Va Tech, Farmers/Ranchers College, Wed., Dec. 2, at the Opera House in Bruning. Call Fillmore UNL Ext. at 402-759-3712 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

County Board Proceedings

The Webster County Board of Commissioners met at 8:30 am on Tuesday, October 6th for a regular business meeting. The following Members were present for roll call: Jeff Ord, John Soucek, Roger Bohrer, Keith Buschow and Mary Delka. Motion was made by Buschow, second by Delka to approve the minutes of the September 15th business meeting. All Members voted to approve the minutes. After discussion of the vacancy on the Hospital Board of Trustees, motion was made by Bohrer, second by Soucek to appoint Mike Buschow of Blue Hill to the Webster County Hospital Board of Trustees with his term expiring January 1, 2013. Upon roll call vote, voting in favor of the motion: Bohrer, Soucek, Delka and Ord. Voting nay or absent: none. Abstaining: Buschow. The appointment was approved. Upon review of County Treasurer Fund Balances, motion was made by Buschow, second by Delka to adopt Resolution 35-2009: BE IT RESOLVED, that $140,000.00 be transferred from the County General Fund to the County Road/ Bridge Fund as the first quarterly transfer of funds as stated in the 2009/10 Webster County Budget Document. Upon roll call vote, All Members voted to adopt the resolution Motion was made by Soucek, second by Delka to adopt Resolution 36-2009: BE IT RESOLVED, that $17,500.00 be transferred from the General Fund to the Noxious Weed Control Fund pursuant to 2009/2010 Budget. All Members voted to adopt the Resolution. The Board discussed capital improvements for building and grounds. With there being sufficient funds available in this budget, motion was made by Bohrer, second by Buschow to accept the proposal by Summit Masonry to erect a concrete block wall for the courtyard garage addition at the proposed cost of $3,260. All Members voted in favor of the motion. The Board discussed a previously introduced Wellness Program through South Heartland Health Department for County Employees. The Board reviewed long term costs and other requirements. The Board would take no action on this matter. Commissioner Delka reviewed information from a recent Central District Meeting. Assessor Krueger met with the Board and presented calculations for the tax levies for the various political subdivisions. She reviewed recent valuation changes. Motion was made by Buschow, second by Delka to approve of the 2009 Property Tax Levies for the political subdivisions of Webster County. All Members voted in favor of the motion. At 10:30 am, the Board held their Public Hearing to set the county’s tax request at a different amount than last year’s request. No public appeared. After discussion, motion was made by Buschow, second by Delka to adopt Resolution 37-2009: WHEREAS, Nebraska Revised Statute 77-1601.02 provides that the property tax request for the prior year shall be the property tax request for the current year for purposes of the levy set by the County Board of Equalization unless the governing Body of the County of Webster passes, by a majority vote, a resolution or ordinance setting the tax request at a different amount; and WHEREAS, a special public hearing was held as required by law to hear and consider comments concerning the property tax request; and WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of Webster County that the property tax request for the current year be a different amount than the property tax request for the prior year. The Governing Body of Webster County resolves that: 1. The 2009/2010 property tax request be set at $2,028,400.00. 2. A copy of this resolution be certified and forwarded to the County Clerk on or before October 13, 2009. Upon roll call vote, all Members voted to adopt the resolution. County Attorney McDole met with the Board on a request from the City of Blue Hill for the County to designate an animal control authority pursuant to Nebraska Statute 54-623. The Board discussed this matter and asked McDole to research the issue in order to place any action on the agenda for the next business meeting. The following claims were approved for payment: Wages for 10 part-time and 17 EMTs - $ 9,110.29 GENERAL FUND Ameritas Life Ins retirmt $ 356.20 Troy Anderson mileage $ 24.20 Nebr DAServices fees $ 149.25 Nebr DAServices telecom $ 448.00 Robert Beardslee maintnc $ 242.00 Bladen Sand/Gravl sand $ 240.83 Blue Hill Leader publish $ 389.31 Cherie Bonifas mileage $ 9.90 Business World supply $ 11.84 Richard Calkins counsel $ 565.80 Carpenter Report service $ 206.70 Cash-Wa Candy supply $ 7.36 Cash-Wa Distrib supply $ 151.97 Contryman Assoc audit $ 4,000.00 Social Security FICA $ 444.39 Eakes Office supply $ 540.34 Garwood Law Off counsel $ 762.60 Ronald Gestring expense $ 323.90 Glenwood Teleco cables $ 16.98 Grainger repair $ 25.92 Great Plains Co 11 phone $ 737.20 Kenny’s Lumber material $ 672.52 Myrtle Knehans service $ 25.00 Lancaster Co Shrff fees $ 37.16 Duane Lienemann mileage $ 861.70 Maximus, Inc. service $ 2,250.00 MB Construction labor $ 2,295.00 MIPS, Inc. service $ 1,169.09 NE DOL/Boiler inspect $ 36.00 Olson Enterprises repair $ 164.66 Ostdiek Printing supply $ 35.75 Quality Red D Mix concrete $ 1,016.25 Red Cloud Auto repair $ 262.45 Red Cloud Chief publish $ 28.00 R.C. Hardware repair $ 173.10 Red Cloud utility $ 1,339.70 Region III Admin funding $ 1,879.09 Donna Rose mileage $ 13.20 Seiler & Parker counsel $ 28.50 Share Corp supply $ 350.46 Simply Whatever service $ 1,325.00 Spencer/Fane/Britt traing $ 36.00 Joe Strickland mileage $ 22.00 US Postal Service postage $ 1,000.00 Univ of Nebraska DVD $ 6.00 USDA, APHIS funding $ 1,410.75 Marty Wackerla maintnc $ 47.50 Web Co Dist Court fees $ 222.00 Web Co Sheriff petty cash $ 189.40 Web Co Court costs $ 77.50 Whelan & Scherr counsel $ 743.74 Robert Willicott mileage $ 72.05 Robert E. Worman appraisl $ 240.00 ROAD FUND Ameritas Life Ins retirmt $ 29.46 Anderson Construct bridges $ 13,355.00 Paul Bencken misc $ 57.50 Bladen Sand/Gravel gravel $ 45,144.02 City of Blue Hill utility $ 92.44 Business World Prod supply $ 40.44 Catherland Auto repair $ 875.04 Century Lumber repair $ 61.14 Country Corner fuel $ 362.85 DAS/Surplus equipmt $ 15,592.00 Social Security FICA $ 33.39 Eakes Office supply $ 42.80 Farm Plan repair $ 2,467.31 Farmers Union Coop supply $ 3.29 Glenwood Teleco phone $ 134.35 Great Plains Co phone $ 123.95 Guide Rock Village utility $ 41.63 Jim’s OK Tires tires $ 229.95 Kelly Supply Co repair $ 97.54 Kenny’s Lumber repair $ 18.36 Kudrna Bobcat Ser maintnc $ 542.50 Lawson Products supply $ 10.24 LRNRD Rural Water water $ 20.00 Nebraska Machinery repair $ 1,300.09 Newman Traffic Sign signs $ 1,074.58 Olson Enterprises repair $ 205.55 Orscheln’s repair $ 12.99 Quill Corp supply $ 94.18 R & K Service fuel $ 1,705.62 R & M Disposal garbage $ 33.00 Ragland Trucking maintnc $ 367.44 Red Cloud Auto repairs $ 998.76 Reliant Transport maintnc $ 248.85 Road Builders Machin repair $ 778.76 South Central PPD utility $ 52.50 Timm’s Service repair $ 5,717.79 Windstream phone $ 57.87 ZEE Medical Ser medical $ 353.72 VISITOR PROMOTION WC Visitor Bureau salary $ 500.00 COUNTY DENTAL FUND Sean Daly dental $ 78.40 WC Dental Clinic dental $ 56.00 NOXIOUS WEED FUND Ameritas Life Ins retirmt $ 77.33 Lynn Collison mileage $ 121.00 Great Plains Comm phone $ 43.10 Jared Auto Expert repair $ 59.79 Social Security FICA $ 87.64 Timm’s Service fuel $ 132.10 AMBULANCE FUND Campbell Village 911 $ 120.00 Great Plains Comm phone $ 45.11 Linweld rent $ 153.45 Social Security FICA $ 131.55 Being no further business, Chairman Ord adjourned the meeting at 12:00 noon. The next regular business meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 20th, 2009. A current agenda and complete minutes are on file in the County Clerk’s Office. Dated this 6th day of October, 2009.

Commentary by R. Tone Kister

Death is never a punishment! by R. Tone Kister Most of us have been conditioned to believe that, somehow death is a punishment. We hear people say, “I hope he gets the chair for what he did”, or “Killin’s too good for him”. Meaning, of course, they are condemning them to the ultimate punishment by the very act of the person dying. On the other side of this anger is love, and how often do we express our ultimate love for someone by demanding that everything be done for them to keep them alive. Even at the expense of their quality-of-life. Does this not imply that death is the supreme awful. But wait, our thinking becomes convoluted when a beloved pet becomes irreversibly ill, and we “humanly” choose to “put-them-down”. Many, many people are convinced that animals do not have a continuation of life after death, but are equally convinced that humans do. More convolution, if animals don’t live on after death and people do, then how can rationally, death be a punishment for humans and a kind release for animals? Unless not continuing life is better than continuing. Plum goofy thinking it seems to me. Death is merely graduating from mortality. Death is never a punishment! No one can die until it is time. To do so, would imply that perhaps God is not in control all of the time, and that is not even a consideration for me. I do believe a person can make choices that will impair their abilities adversely. But death does not ever result unless it is time for them to graduate. Conversely, I believe nothing can be done to prolong “quality life” when it is time to graduate. I believe the medical profession can improve or retain a better quality of life for anyone destined to stay in mortality with medications now. In the future, cloning one’s individual parts, will be a much more desirable solution to the aging of the body. I believe all good comes from Heaven. I also believe Satan always attempts to turns the good from Heaven to evil. Satan was long ago cast out of Heaven along with a third of the Angels, and sent to Earth to rule. It is no wonder to me that he and his demons have so much influence in all areas, and must be constantly monitored. Because Satan and his demons are spirits and are invisible, it is easy for them to convince the unwary they don’t even exist. This of course, makes it possible to move about the mind freely and spread their evil wantonly, like germs and bacteria. If ya can’t see it, it ain’t real, right? I believe Satan and his demons cannot influence us unless invited, and that’s where it gets really tricky. How many ways can he be invited? After all, right now this is his turf and he has been properly described as the master of deception. . . Heavenly Father allows Satan and his followers to tempt us as part of our experience in mortality. We do not have to give in to Satan’s temptations. We have the power within us to choose good over evil. Satan is the enemy of righteousness and those who seek to follow God. He is a spirit son of God who was once an angel , but in the premortal Council in Heaven, Lucifer, as Satan was then called, rebelled against Heavenly Father and he persuaded a third part of the hosts of heaven to turn away from the Father. As a result of this rebellion they were all cast out of Heaven and sent to earth to rule, without bodies, until the millennium. Neither Satan nor any of his demon followers can influence us without our permission. How do we grant permission? That’s where the tricky part comes in. He tries to lead us away from righteousness through ridicule and discrediting Holy things. He casts doubt on individual accountability and undermines the sense of family. Like the frog and hot water story, he supplies us with small samples of corruption so we don’t even realize until it is too late, we have been trapped. This can come to us in a multitude of ways including; through our associations, and of course television and the internet. Evil has no conscience! It will use us for as long as we are useful to it’s end, and then cast us off as so much worthless junk. Satan can reign supreme by convincing mortals he does not exist. Those so convinced, are helpless to his influence, because no one can fight against something they think does not exist! There is no defense. There is a strong defense for those that do not fall for the Satanic lies, and continually monitor their own behavior. Keeping it simple, like; “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”, or “Am I hiding this from others because it would embarrass me if they found out”. We can place red flags up in our minds and abide by them with a greater assurance of success. The single most important word to live by is “Respect”! If everyone respects themselves and every one else, all the time, we will not have spouse abuse, child abuse, crimes of theft, crimes of passion, war, dishonesty, cheating, fleecing, quick uncontrolled tempers, insults, enemies, put-downs, ridicule, or untrustworthiness, and any sense of misery will be reduced to physical pain and or monetary inadequacies. Which can be monumental !

Pheasants Forever Youth Mentor Hunt Successful

More than 30 volunteers combined their efforts to make the Webster County Pheasants Forever Youth Mentor Hunt, held Saturday Oct. 10th, a huge success despite cold weather. Fourteen youth between the ages of 12 and 15 and their mentors participated. Organizers believe that there is enough interest in youth hunting to make the mentor hunt an annual event. Each of the 14 youth participating were presented with an orange hunting vest with the Nebraska game and parks logo and the Pheasants Forever logo on it. The youth were required to complete the hunter Safety course before participating in the PF Youth Mentor Hunt. Two certified hunter education instructors, Troy Schmitz and Jim Moore were present at the hunt. Webster County Pheasants Forever chapter president Jamie Reiman said he was well pleased with the turnout and appreciated the many volunteers who cooperated to make the day such a success. .The event was held at the Rep. Valley Trap shooting range near Rosemont. The chapter was grateful to Dave Kohmetscher for allowing the use his property behind the old locker plant to get out of the cold wind for a lot of the events. Stations were set up around the property to teach the youth how to take care of their weapons, shoot blue rock and clean birds. They also go to do some 22 rifle target shooting. The 22 rifle target shooting station helpers were Ron Olsen and Bob Fountaine. The Blue Rock station was manned by Bruce and Dave Kohmetscher. Instruction in Gun cleaning was provided by Pat Kile. The Pheasant cleaning station was presided over by Mike Hall and Shawn Trumble. Helping with the live pheasant hunt were Toby Alber, Mike Morganflash, Andy Alber, Jason Fowler, Jim Moore and Reiley Hall. Shuttling people from station to station were Gary Reiman, Herb Shannon and Tom VanBoening The young hunters had the opportunity to hunt live pheasants behind pointing hunting dogs along with their mentor. Every youth was able to bag at least one bird. Area hunters who brought their dogs were Toby Alber, and Jason Fowler. The event included a lunch for the hunters and their mentors at the Rep. Valley club house served by PF chapter members, Vicki Alber and Roger Meyer, . Wimmers Wieners donated the brats for the lunch, Thramers in Blue Hill donate the buns and other items for the lunch. The Webster Co. Pheasants Forever chapter furnished the blue rock, shells and bird. The annual Webster County Pheasants Forever banquet is the main fund raising event for the chapter. Three volunteers from the Little Blue Chapter of Pheasants Forever assisted, Jim Moore, Dale Janitscheck and Nate Allen. .Mentors were Terry Jordening, Roger Wengler, Tim Streff, Mitch Frazer, Tyler Frazer , Ryan Sluke, Cody Karr, Nathan Petska, Nate Allen, Dale Janitscheck, Heidi Kyle, Troy Schmitz, Jack Shiverly, and Casey Fangmeyer. Youth participants were Wyatt Kyle, Matthew Wengler, Chyanna Sharp, Dakota Lovette, Brady Schmitz, Austin Strasberg, Adam Kearney, Dillon Buschow, Jacob VanBoening, Austin Woodward, Brett Streff, Jacob Shiverly, Chase Seybold, and Peter Trausch. Co chairs of the event were Andy and Vicki Alber. Committee members Mike Hall, Toby Alber, Bob Fontaine, Ron Olsen , Jason Fowler and Brad Wulf. Jamie Reiman and Casey Fangmeyer. The Webster County event is one of about 70 youth mentor hunts sponsored by Nebraska Pheasant Forever chapters across the state, during the month of October. Pheasants Forever Chapters across the state and Nebraska Game and Parks commission have been combining their efforts to provide Youth mentor hunts since 1996 The Goal for sponsoring the hunts is to encourage interest in the sport of hunting and to teach youth to hunt safely, conserve our natural resources and to teach respect the property rights of the land owners. Youth are allowed to participate in the Pheasants Forever Mentor hunt just once, next year a new group of youth will be invited to participate. Door prizes were given including a 22 rifle and a mounted pheasant donated by Osage taxidermy. Pheasants Forever obtained special permission from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to allow for this live bird hunt prior to the opening of the regular pheasant hunting season.

Congressman's Column by Adrian Smith

The Need for Missile Defense It is an unfortunate reality: the world is a dangerous place. There are terrorist organizations and even entire countries which are enemies of freedom. It is our responsibility to provide an appropriate and timely defense against those who threaten our security, especially those who would use ballistic missile technology against America or our allies. Unfortunately, it seems as if our country's policy is moving in the opposite direction. President Obama's administration recently announced it is terminating the European missile defense system - 10 interceptors planned for deployment in Poland and a related radar site in the Czech Republic. Instead, the Administration is shifting emphasis to focus on regional defenses, arguing the real threat is short- and medium-ranged missiles. This unilateral decision undermines our allies, especially in Europe, who have provided steadfast support to our country's efforts against terrorists in Iraq, Afghanistan and throughout the world. In advance of direct talks with Iran - which has publicly tested long-range missiles - many feel this is the wrong message to be sending. The Iranian government's continued development of missile technology presents a very real, credible threat to America and our allies. Iran's expanding missile program and its past history must be taken seriously. Iranian behavior in the past year clearly demonstrates its intent and capability to develop long-range missiles. Europe has no capacity to defend itself against long-range missile attacks, while America has limited defenses against long-range attacks. The European deployment is the only system which can protect both the U.S. and Europe against the common threat of Iran once it is armed with nuclear weapons and the desire and capability to deliver them. The ground-based midcourse defense interceptors in Poland and the radar site in the Czech Republic were, in fact, cost-effective and proven technologies offering protection from a long-range missile attack to both Europe and the U.S. By taking one of our most important defenses off the table, the Administration has done little more than empower enemies at the expense of our allies. In the last three years, our missile defense budget has been slashed by $1.2 billion, undermining our commitment to our allies and weakening our national security. The threat to the U.S. from ballistic missiles is increasing, and Congress must take appropriate actions to safeguard our country. Congress has an important role to play in the coming months. Republican leadership has called for comprehensive hearings on the decision to eliminate the U.S. missile defense system in Poland and the Czech Republic and the so-called "downgrading" of the Iranian threat. As we move forward, I will continue to push for funding missile defense capabilities which will protect both Europe and the United States. I am a supporter of legislation directing the Secretary of Defense to deploy ground-based interceptors as part of a missile defense system for the United States. Additionally, this legislation would restore funding by authorizing $500 million for the Missile Defense Agency. Our nation and our allies need missile defense as a way to prevent attacks. Countries such as North Korea and Iran are improving their ballistic missile technologies and could pose a threat to our country's national security, to say nothing of the stability of the Middle East or Asia. In the end, these are defensive weapons we hope never to use. However, even as we strive for peace, America and our allies must be prepared against all potential threats.

Straight From the Horse's Mouth

Duane A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator, Webster County October 9, 2009 Edition

Oh My Goodness, where do I start with this week’s edition? There have been so many things going on in the agricultural world with a late harvest, a good killing freeze, weaning time, electric fence chores, time to take cattle from pasture to stalks, etc. What has caught my attention however the most this week is the higher than normal influx of attacks on agriculture and in particular animal agriculture. I would be remiss in not commenting on a few of those items that really seemed to hit me like a slap to the face. What happened to the days when agriculture and the process of producing food for a hungry world was held in high esteem and treasured by the citizens of this country?

Earlier this week I read an article, believe it or not, from the New York Times. The Sunday edition dropped a front page, 5,000 word bombshell on the ground beef business. I don’t believe that never has a publication with such a nationwide impact taken the meat industry to the wood shed with such single-minded conviction. Whether you agree with them or not, the writers have reframed the E. coli debate, journalistically charging the entire ground beef distribution system with what can only be called a “series of self-inflicted, willfully neglectful felonies”. If you haven’t read the story, you can find it on the web by Googling “E. Coli Path Shows Flaws in Beef Inspection”, or give me a call and I will get you a copy. I, of course, take exception to the bulk of the news article, however it is almost impossible to know where to begin except to say one cannot read this piece without knowing that the readers that don’t know better will come away with considerably less enthusiasm for hamburgers than before. I predict that before long, Oprah Winfrey no doubt will be saying (again) that she’ll never eat another hamburger.

That being said we also need to take some responsibility for this problem within the meat processing industry. The article points out that there were just so many failures that arose. It is pointed out that “the beef industry has failed to live up to the public trust by doing everything and anything it can to assure that the meat it produces is safe”. It also appears from the article that the “government has allowed the industry to dictate the terms by which safety is determined, thus allowing enormous holes in the system to be formed”. Those words trouble me and I hope that segment of our industry acknowledges these perceptions and becomes more vigilant and proactive in seeing to the safety of our beef for food.

As if that wasn’t enough to leave me a little sleepless, another couple of articles also hit the wire about the same time which actually got my blood racing again through my veins. Have you heard of a new thrust called “Animal Guardianship”? If not, you might want to be watching for this. Imagine that over night a new state law goes into effect declaring that from now on you do not own your animals but rather you are their “guardian.” Does this sound farfetched? Some local communities have already made this change and it seems to be picking up steam. The first legal step on this road has been the addition of “owner-guardian” language to local ordinances, then changing the wording to “guardian” only. Now one state now has “owner-guardian” as a part of its law, and various federal agencies are using the word “guardian” in conjunction with “owner” whenever the latter appears in their regulations.

Animal guardianship advocates suggest that referring to the human-animal relationship as one of guardianship rather than ownership will lead to better animal care. There is little basis for this assertion; an abusive animal owner would likely be an abusive animal “guardian.” While local ordinances to date have generally applied only to dogs, cats, and other companion animals, a next step would be to expand such laws to include all domestic animals, that’s right – cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens and horses! With the groundwork in place, guardianship advocates could then move to the state level. Can’t happen? One only has to look at Proposition 2 in California and several other states and the problems it has created. Does that then give that animal the right to sue me or for someone else to sue me on behalf of the animal if they think that I am not following “their” idea of how an animal should be raised, fed, housed or even harvested? Will I lose “guardianship?”

Another alarming thing to me is the news that the Baltimore, Maryland Schools system became the first of what some feel will be many in the United States to pledge to serve no meat on Mondays, according to the organization behind the campaign. There have been other efforts for this, and it has even appeared right here in Nebraska. What school districts may not know is that “Meatless Mondays” (or meatless any other day), is really an initiative sponsored by the Grace Spira Project at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The name “Spira” refers to animal rights activist Henry Spira, founder of Animal Rights International. Hmmm, I wonder if there is an agenda there somewhere? The actual creator of this project is the same group that created the series of videos at http://www.themeatrix.com/. I suggest you go there to better understand the organization behind the initiative. These videos seek to manipulate and mislead children through a cleverly produced, but factually inaccurate cartoon takeoff of the film “The Matrix”. There is also a connection to another new “anti-meat” web site that you may want to check out - http://www.meat.org/. It basically has three videos that appear in a youth favored “You-Tube” type format with names like “Chew On This”, “Meet Your Meat”, and “Free Me”. Ultimately, the group seeks an end to the United States’ efficient and advanced food production system that delivers to Americans the most abundant and affordable food supply in the world. Oh My!! We have a battle on our hands!

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

Bobcats top Blue Devils

The Blue Hill Bobcats defeated the Kenesaw Blue Devils 46 - 20 in Minden Optimist Youth Football League play. GAME RECAP & SCORING SUMMARY TO BE UPDATED SOON. Blue Hill ball carriers included; James Fuller - 7 carries for 123 yards, Mitch Krueger - 5 carries for 63 yards, Austin Rose - 5 carries for 61 yards, Jayden Hamel - 6 carries for 56 yards, Andrew Mai - 3 carries for 42 yards, Joel Smith - 7 carries for 17 yards, Alec Meyer - 4 carries for 11 yards, Alec Eiseman - 1 carry for 4 yards, Cody Porter - 4 carries for 0 yards, and Kyl Rouse - 1 carry for 0 yards. Blue Hill defensive stats included; James Fuller - 9 tackles, Austin Rose - 8 tackles, Mitch Krueger - 6 tackles, Kyl Rouse - 4 tackles, Jacob Van Boening - 3 tackles and a fumble recovery, Andrew Mai - 3 tackles, Adam Krueger - 3 tackles, Dakota Jameson - 3 tackles, Austin Kelley - 2 tackles, Kyle Tolle - 2 tackles, Johnny Bauman - 1 tackle, Jayden Hamel - 1 tackle, and Tristan Kelley - 1 tackle.

Senator's Column by Mike Johanns

October 5, 2009 Broken Promises Not the Way to Fix Health Care Dear Nebraskans, Throughout his presidential campaign, President Obama routinely promised that no one earning less than $250,000 would see their taxes increased. In fact, he promised not to raise taxes for those individuals by "one single dime." Yet if the health care proposal currently being debated in the Senate Finance Committee were to become law, this promise would be shattered. I was very disappointed last week when a proposal requiring the fulfillment of this promise was voted down in the committee. The Finance Committee's proposal contains an "individual mandate," which requires almost all Americans to have insurance. A report issued last week by the Joint Committee on Taxation and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) outlined the extent of the burden this would impose on the middle class. The report projects the federal government will raise about $2.8 billion via individual mandate penalties. The Finance Committee is depending upon the revenue from this tax to pay for health care reform. An astounding 71 percent of the money reaped from this tax-$2 billion-would be taken from those families earning $120,000 or less per year, or individuals earning $59,000. These are the very people President Obama swore to protect. This is a back-door tax increase, and a disingenuous way of dropping the hammer on the American people. The most distressing part of this middle class tax increase is that the Finance Committee was given a chance to eliminate it. My Republican colleague and Finance Committee member, Senator Mike Crapo of Idaho, offered an amendment last week that would have required the legislation to abide by President Obama's promise. The language literally would have prevented the legislation from imposing any sort of tax on those who earn less than $250,000. Twelve Democrats voted against keeping the President's word, and essentially in favor of taxing the middle class. Only one Democrat voted with Republicans on this amendment, and unfortunately it failed 12 to 11. In addition, the current legislation already passes costs onto state budgets by significantly expanding Medicaid coverage, which forces states to foot part of the bill. This would require states to either increase taxes or cut important programs. The rhetoric of the health care reform debate is not matching the reality. Congress must put its "money where its mouth is" and keep the promises made to the American people. If this legislation passes, the middle class will find itself taxed on all sides. We'll face: a new health insurance system that passes new costs down onto states; an individual mandate that penalizes taxpayers directly; and a new 40 percent tax on many insurance plans, which is sure to be passed onto consumers through higher insurance rates. There simply has to be a better way than broken promises to reform our health care system.

A Nebraskan's View by Senator Ben Nelson

Monday, October 5, 2009 THINKING OUTSIDE THE BELTWAY Health care reform being talked about in Washington is arguably the most significant health legislation since Medicare. It needs to be done right and it needs to include input from outside the Beltway, which is why I continue to hold public meetings with Nebraskans all across the state. I’ve now held eight town hall-style meetings from one end of Nebraska to the other and may hold more as we continue to see details about the reform package. These meeting are important to me because I must know exactly what Nebraskans support when approaching such an important issue. I also want to respond to Nebraskans questions directly, one-on one. Legislation Must Deliver for Nebraska The President is leading the health reform effort and needs to continue to make clear what he supports so I can evaluate whether it’s the best approach for our state. I am for bipartisan health care reform and am working to make sure we incorporate the best ideas from both Republicans and Democrats. I strongly believe in bipartisanship and think we must ensure Americans from across the political spectrum to have their say in these important reform efforts. I am working to be constructive and not obstruct the President’s efforts to reform health care. As a result, I am keeping an open mind on every option for health reform—public plans, co-ops, private plans, trigger options and any other ideas that may come up--everything. My vote is not on auto pilot or directed by inside the Beltway politicians. If it’s not good for Nebraska, I won’t vote for it. Reduce the Cost of Health Care From what I hear from Nebraskans, many would like to see reforms that reduce the cost of health care, preserve existing coverage most now have, provide for Nebraskans who don’t have health insurance and improve the quality of care. The majority of Nebraskans who attended public meetings share my view that health care reform legislation should not cover illegal immigrants or provide funds for abortions. Unless explicit language is included in the bill prohibiting these measures, it will not get my vote. In addition, the legislation must not raise taxes, add to the deficit or undermine the private coverage 200 million Americans currently have. It must not cut benefits or get between patients and their doctors. But costs must be brought under control because the day of reckoning is nearing. Health care costs are on an unsustainable path upward. People who can’t afford it today are already victims of these increases, and there will be more victims as the costs continue to go up, unless we slow down that unsustainable growth. I’m looking forward to seeing details as they unfold and will make sure that Nebraskans see them as well. My pledge to you is that your thoughts expressed during public meetings around the state will be heard. As more details become known I may hold more public meetings to continue getting your “outside the Beltway” thinking.

Blue Hill Youth Defeat Southern Valley

The Blue Hill Youth Football Team made the nearly two hour trek to Southern Valley Schools to take on the Southern Valley Eagles on Sunday, October 4. The Bobcats defeated the Eagles 16-6. The Eagles won the toss but elected to defer. The Bobcats again struggled early with the spread formation, throwing incomplete passes on their first three plays. However, on 4th an 10, The Bobcats returned to the Wishbone formation and Mitch Krueger dashed for 15 yards to give the Bobcat's a first down. Later in the drive, quarterback Jayden Hamel scrambled for 10 yards to place the Bobcats on the 1 yard line. Austin Rose punched in the games first score to put the Bobcats up 6-0. Rose got the 2-point conversion also, when he pounced on a Bobcat fumble in the end zone to make the score 8-0. The Bobcats & Eagles traded possessions before the Eagles were finally able to break loose for a big play in the second quarter. The Bobcat's defense held the Eagles out of the end zone for a couple of plays, but the Eagles eventually crossed the goal line to close the gap to 8-6. The Bobcats scored on their following possession when James Fuller broke loose for a 40 yard touchdown run. Andrew Mai converted on the two point conversion to make the score 16-6. There was no scoring in the second half. In an attempt to ensure all players had a chance to participate, the Blue Hill Youth Football team were divided into squads. Team Bobcat consisted of the typical first string players including; Jayden Hamel, Mitch Krueger, James Fuller, Austin Rose, Alec Meyer, Andrew Mai, Alec Eiseman, Kyl Rouse, Adam Krueger, Jacob Van Boening, Kyl Tolle, Dalton Herbek, Dakota Jameson & Kody Mans. Team Bobcat only saw three series of play during the game. Team Hurricane & Team Twister (named by the players) were designed in an attempt to create two teams of equal caliber. Members of Team Twister were Kody Mans, Mitch Krueger, Andrew Mai, Joel Smith, Alec Meyer, Dakota Jameson, Kyl Rouse, Dalton Herbek, Austin Kelley, Jacob Van Boening, James Fuller & Jayden Hamel. Team Hurricane included; Jayden Hamel, James Fuller, Austin Rose, Ethan Sharp, Alec Meyer, Johnny Bauman, Michael Hiller, Kyle Tolle, Adam Krueger, Tristan Kelley, & Alec Eiseman. Not at the game were Tyler Dack, Cody Porter & Jacob Canterberry. James Fuller led all ball carriers with 50 yards on 2 carries. Other ball carriers were; Austin Rose - 6 carries for 25 yards, Mitch Krueger - 4 carries for 25 yards, Jayden Hamel - 3 carries for 22 yards, Andrew Mai - 4 carries for 10 yards, Joel Smith - 3 carries for 10 yards, Kody Mans - 3 carries for 6 yards, Ethan Sharp - 1 carry for 9 yards, and Alec Meyer - 1 carry for 3 yards. Defensive statistics are; James Fuller - 3 tackles, Mitch Krueger - 3 tackles, Austin Rose - 2 tackles and a fumble recovery, Jayden Hamel - 2 tackles, and 1 tackle each for Ethan Sharp, Johnny Bauman, Joel Smith, Andrew Mai, Alec Meyer, Jacob Van Boening, Kyl Rouse, Adam Krueger, Tristan Kelley, and Dalton Herbek.

4-H Zoomed into National 4-H Week Thanks to Jeff Gordon, NASCAR and DuPont

This is National 4-H Week! The Webster County UNL Extension office joins thousands of other offices in saluting our 4-H members, clubs, leaders and volunteers. This year’s theme is “Meet the Future”. Ever wonder what the future will look like? Just take a look at your local 4-H today. It’s where young people explore, learn and discover in a safe environment. In 4-H, kids find their true passions, gain confidence and give back to the community. Celebrate 4-H’s efforts in helping today’s kids become tomorrow’s leaders. National 4-H Week (October 4-10, 2009) took off with a speedy start this past Sunday, October 4th, as the 4-H emblem made its debut appearance in a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The well-known national icon was featured on the `TV panel` of the No. 24 DuPont Chevrolet driven by Jeff Gordon at Kansas Speedway. The placement of the 4-H clover on the No. 24 Chevrolet was made possible through a generous donation by DuPont, sponsor of both the No. 24 team and of 4-H. National 4-H Week is an annual celebration for the 100-year old youth development organization. The highlight of the week includes the highly anticipated, 4-H National Youth Science Day, which brings together millions of youth to participate in the National Science Experiment. This year`s experiment, “Bio-fuel Blast”, will introduce youth to alternative energy. DuPont is a premier sponsor of 4-H National Youth Science Day and the Bio-fuel Blast National Science Experiment. "The appearance of the 4-H emblem on Jeff Gordon`s car in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup is a wonderful salute to 4-H by DuPont, and an amazing way for us to begin National 4-H Week," said Donald T. Floyd, Jr., president and CEO of National 4-H Council. "Now, millions of current 4-H`ers, 4-H alumni and racing fans alike can watch with excitement as the clover takes to the track for the first time." The Kansas event is the third in the 10-race Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, and the 1.5-mile track is the site of two of Gordon`s 82 career victories in NASCAR`s premier division. "4-H has been a leader among youth development organizations, enriching the lives of millions of young people for more than 100 years," said Gordon. "It is an honor to have such an iconic emblem featured on the DuPont Chevrolet and to provide such an exciting way to help the nation kick-off National 4-H Week." 4-H National Youth Science Day was created to spark an early youth interest in science education and to combat a national shortage of young people pursuing science in college and future careers. Participants in this year`s National Science Experiment will learn how cellulose and sugars in plants - such as corn, switchgrass, sorghum and algae - can be converted into fuel, and how alternative energies can be used in their own communities. Youth will create their own bio-fuel through Bio-fuel Blast, lead discussions about what they`ve learned, and see how their small creations are a part of a larger, global discussion. Currently, more than five million youth across the nation take part in 4-H science, engineering and technology (SET) year-long programming that introduce youth to new areas of interest and help them explore environmental and scientific issues. 4-H “SET” programming span from robotics, rocketry, and computer science, to agricultural science, GPS mapping and renewable energy. According to a longitudinal study by Tufts University, youth who participate in 4-H programs are more likely to get better grades in school, to seek out science classes, to see themselves going to college, and to contribute positively in their communities. In addition, 4-H youth have been shown to better resist peer pressure and are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. About 4-H: 4-H is a community of six million young people across America learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. National 4-H Council is the private sector, non-profit partner of National 4-H Headquarters at USDA. 4-H programs are implemented by the 106 Land-Grant Universities and the Cooperative Extension System through their 3,100 local Extension offices in every county across the country. In Nebraska more than 400 Extension staff across the state serve as primary contacts for the more than 135,000 youth and 20,000 volunteers. Learn more about 4-H at http://www.4-h.org/ or for Nebraska 4-H go to http://4h.unl.edu/ .

Governor's Column by Dave Heineman

Oct. 2, 2009

Activation of New Statewide Radio Network Begins Dear Fellow Nebraskans: Recently, I had the privilege of activating the first segment of Nebraska’s new statewide radio network during an event held at Scotts Bluff National Monument. The network uses radio towers and upgraded communications equipment at the Nebraska State Patrol’s Troop E dispatch center, along with radios installed in first responder vehicles to provide an enhanced radio network for the state’s public safety officials in the Nebraska Panhandle.

The statewide network is being activated in four segments over the next year. When complete, it will allow public safety personnel from local, state and federal agencies to communicate, with each other.

This is a major milestone for Nebraska and I want to congratulate everyone involved on their work to make this first part of the network a reality. Achieving interoperable communication is a top priority when it comes to emergency preparedness and response and we are well on our way.

The radios and communications equipment installed in Nebraska State Patrol vehicles are state of the art and a significant upgrade from equipment that in some cases was from the 1940’s. Troopers attending the launch talked about the difference the new equipment made, providing better coverage and enabling a much clearer exchange of information.

Activating the first stage of this network in the western Nebraska meant providing a more comprehensive communications system that would cover the most rugged terrain in Nebraska. The improved coverage of this network replaces a decades old system that couldn’t reach into the canyons and rock formations in many parts of the Panhandle.

Launching the network at Scotts Bluff National Monument was significant because it is one of the national monument sites in Nebraska managed by the National Park Service, which is a division of the U.S. Department of the Interior and a partner on the network project.

The completed network will include a partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and the Nebraska Departments of Agriculture, Correctional Services and Roads. Other partners include the Office of the Chief Information Officer, which provides support for the statewide radio network, and Nebraska Educational Telecommunications, which provided access to radio towers across the state.

The network will also include the utility crews of the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD). While the state was working to develop a dynamic, sustainable way for first responders and state officials to communicate, NPPD was considering options for upgrading its own radio network. Rather than build two separate radio systems, the state and NPPD agreed to share the costs, saving taxpayers and NPPD ratepayers at least $20 million.

“The state radio network will serve as a backbone that allows the eight regional communications networks to connect to the state network and provide interoperability for local and county law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel, and county emergency management.”

Clear communication is an essential element of emergency response. When complete, this project will ensure that first responders from border to border can talk to one another. It will also enhance safety for first responders and improve efficiency in responding to emergencies and every day events.

The level of coordination between state agencies combined with new technology is helping Nebraska take a major step forward in improving public safety. This effort is a perfect example of the collaboration that makes Nebraska a national leader in emergency preparedness. It is Nebraska at its best.

Straight From the Horse's Mouth

by Duane A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator, Webster County October 3, 2009 Edition It seems like an eternity since I sat down to this computer to put words to this column. A lot has been happening during that time frame. I first had the opportunity to travel to Portland, Oregon for the National Association of County Agricultural Agents National Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference. I know, that is a mouthful, but that is what it is. I serve as Past President of the Nebraska Association and was there to represent Nebraska at the conference and serve on the NACAA Animal Science Committee. We also learned about some of the research and emerging issues that are coming down the pike and will try to update my readers on these topics as they arrive. I was also honored to receive a national award for agricultural communications for newsletters while there. It is nice to receive credit from your peers beyond the borders of our state. It was amazing to fly into the Willamette Valley between the majestic mountains that make up the Cascades. We flew pretty close to Mt. Hood and some other peaks that I had no idea of their name. You could see why this valley would be the destination of farmers following the Oregon Trail. It is a region rich in agricultural resources. The city of Portland is called the “City of Roses” and has some interesting concepts such as half blocks so that more businesses can have the coveted corner location. Half-blocks made walking a dozen blocks not so bad, although, it was kind of fun taking the metro train throughout the city square for free. Portland has a unique track system that takes you most anywhere in the city for either no cost or minimal cost depending upon your destination. The different culture was very evident to me with the piercings and tattoos, vagrants and homeless, panhandlers, trashy lots, etc. It is always good to get back home. I have always liked to attend and watch the youth compete at Ak-Sar-Ben in Omaha that is held in conjunction with the River City Roundup. This year was no exception. I actually flew right from Portland to Omaha, and arrived just in time to meet some area 4-H exhibitors who had just arrived with their animals. During this past weekend I worked with the beef crew checking in beef and taking DNA samples on random cattle and then on the division champions. I had the best seat in the house for the breeding beef show, serving as the official announcer. I have to tell you that there were some names that I wasn’t too familiar with, and probably fumbled some of those names. It was fun watching our area youth prepare and show their animals. South Central Nebraska was well represented. I found out later that the beef show was shown real time on the DV Auction web site. Think how things have changed over the years. One thing that hasn’t changed is the special feel of the Ak-Sar-Ben experience. Another thing that happened while I was gone was the maturing of the soybeans and corn, and in fact I drove past dusty fields with combines and trucks bringing in this year’s soybean harvest on the way home. I couldn’t wait to get back home to see how harvest was going and how the crops were turning out. I awoke the next day and headed to the local co-op for coffee and the field reports. I was of course interested in the harvest progression. The first thing I heard was that the beans were dry but the stems were wet. Producers told me that the beans were testing 8-9% moisture but in many fields it was like cutting rags to get the beans. Some also report some “lima” beans and green pods that make it to the bin. Reports of yields seem to reflect the group of beans, the type of system or tillage, whether it was irrigated or dryland, and more in particular who got rain and who didn’t. There are areas of very good yields and some that aren’t so good, much like the spottiness of what little rain we had in this part of the country. Most corn that was tried was too wet, but with some dryland corn being harvestable at about 16% moisture. Those shelling out corn to test in many irrigated fields indicated that they were seeing above 20% moisture with some up towards 30% but with the dry winds the last couple of days it was drying down pretty good. Some farmers I talked to think that there are some pretty good yields out in the irrigated soybeans and especially in corn to be harvested. Some others with longer season corn say it will be a late harvest once again. Not good for cattlemen looking for stalks. In talking to producers and a couple of agronomists, I also got a feel that they are worried about several things with the delayed harvest. I knew that we would see this with the lack of growing days all summer long with cool days and cool nights, even with the dry conditions. Along with that delay come expected challenges, and those are starting to show up. Some fields are exhibiting a high degree of stalk rot and I have some sketchy reports of some ear rot (possibly Diplodia). This wind, while being good for drying is not so good for stalk-rot weakened stalks and there is a lot of lodging that is starting to take place. Bean fields are exhibiting some typical pod splitting which hastens the need to get them out. One thing that was a bit of a surprise is some bean stems that are snapping off in the wind carrying their pods to the ground. I had noticed some fields that exhibited early browning almost a month ago but thought it was effect of the lack of rain. Now it turns out that some of those spots were more likely due to stem borer. The good news is that those that got their wheat in are seeing emergence. Those that haven’t are definitely past the Hession Fly-free date and have dry fields to plant in. But, now is the awkward time where we need rain for the wheat, but need dry for harvest. Isn’t this game fun? 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

Pheasants Forever to Hold Youth Mentor Hunt

October 10^th the Webster County Chapter of Pheasants Forever will hold their annual Youth Mentor hunt. This will be one of approximately 67 Youth mentor events that Nebraska chapters of Pheasants Forever will be conducting this fall. The hunt is limited to 16 youth ages 12 to 15 who have successfully completed their hunter safety course.

The event will start at the Rep Valley Trap shooting range near Rosemont beginning at 8:30 am, Saturday October 10.

Youth participating in this program will be given instructions in various hunting related topics such as dog training, hunter safety, land owner appreciation, wild life conservation and Blue rock shooting. There will be target shooting with 22 rifles. Also part of the day will be an actual pheasant hunt with a mentor and a dog handler. The day should be very rewarding and is designed to target those youth with a strong interest in hunting.

Special permission has been obtained from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to allow for hunting prior to the opening of the regular pheasant hunting season.

Activities are expected to conclude around 1:30 with a lunch prepared and served by volunteers from the local PF organization.

Advance registration for the event is required. Jamie Reiman of Blue Hill is the president of the Webster Co. chapter of Pheasants Forever. Other local members who will be assisting with the event include but not limited to Toby Alber, Michael Hall, Jason Fowler, Dave Kohmetscher, Bruce Kohmetscher, Ron Olsen, Terri Rose, Brad Wolfe, Casey Fangmeyer, Andy & Vicki Alber and Duane Krueger. Some members of the Little Blue chapter of Pheasants Forever have also volunteered their services for the event.

Pheasant Forever chapters and Nebraska Game and Parks commission have been combining their efforts to provide Youth mentor hunts since 1996. This is the third year for the Webster County Chapter to sponsor this type of event.

October Birthdays

October Birthday Greetings are appropriate for the following people in Blue Hill. If you have names you could add to the list please send to Blue Hill Today and we will add them so that they too may receive good wishes from their neighbors and friends around Blue Hill. The names with an age beside them were taken from a legal document so we are reasonably sure of the accuracy, the other names were obtained from a kind & caring friend with out any year of birth, but we hope they too are correct. Should they not be, we will make any corrections that we are made aware of, we feel the worst that could happen is someone might get good wishes even when it is not their birthday. October 1 -- Jody Krueger, Bob Long, & Joan Classen. October 2 -- Joseph Bell & Sharon McShane (58). October 3 -- Jessica Kort & Kristina Hubl. October 4 -- Roy Faimon, Chad Parr, Matthew Jenny, Tim Gilbert, Robert A. Piel (59) & Kristine Barnhill (30). October 5 -- Melvin Seeman, Gene Falgoine, Elizabeth Buschow (60), & Deborah S. Skrdlant (58). October 6 -- Doyle Krueger, Barbara Krueger, Dean Buschow, Todd Whipple, & Dora Danehey (88). October 7 -- Riley Skrdlant, Ron Karmazine & Selma “Sammy” Krueger (86). October 8 -- Kim Henderson, Brandi Higer & Danielle Schmidt (24). October 9 -- Carissa Krueger, Janette Hoffman October 10 -- Adolph Niemeyer & Brandi Mohlman. October 11 -- Jennifer Stertz, & Chris Marcello. October 12 -- Thong DetAksone, Paul Zimmerman, Kathy Seeman (73), & Todd Kranau (47). October 13 -- Julie Zimmerman, Julie Gibert, Jessica Kort, & Alice Koertner. October 14 -- , Dara Kort, Everett Underwood & Greg Brenn (34). October 15 -- Ida Krueger, Roxanne Wademan, Bruce Jenny, & Helen Koertner. October 16 -- Savanna Alber (2), Neil Kort, Aric Robinson, & Chris Meyer. October 17 -- Agnes Karr, Keri Toepfer, & Godfrey Strausburg. October 18 -- Julie Classen, Pam Rose & Wilma Schulz. October 19 -- Steve Krueger, Ken Kort, George Mazour, Chad Duval, & Robert Carper. October 20 -- Louis Goding. October 21 -- Roger Hoffman & Joe Marcello. October 22 -- Lyle Bostock, Susan Johnson, Jerry Welke, & Riley Schultz. October 23 -- Leann Worley, Fern Baird, Kim Higer, Tom Van Boening, Jeff Wells, & Stuart Kerr. October 24 -- Steve Hubl, & Jeff Myers. October 25 -- Kathleen Bauchman, Paul Krueger & Rosaleen Gianokas. October 26 -- Larry Krueger, Lisa Hubl, Wilmer Wells, & Charles Hewett, Jr. (55). October 27 -- Amy Overy & Connie Mohlman (64). October 28 -- Jeremy Kort, & Roger Koertner. October 29 -- Alan Meyer. October 30 -- Mark Siebrass, Harvey Scheiding, Pam Johnson, & Wilma Frazier (81). October 31 -- James Meyer, Dorthy Meyer, Stephanie Frasier & Rhonda Brewster (54).