I happened on it by accident at a time when there was interest in the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804-06. What follows is a transcript of the original story as it appeared in the Advocate of Aug. 30, 1939. The story piqued my interest and I decided to look into it further.

More about what I found next week.

“MONSTER BONES BECOME FOUNDATION: From Spencer in Boyd County, Nebraska in 1905, came the strange story of a prehistoric fish forty feet in length whose petrified bones found their last resting place in the foundation of a building on the town’s main street.

For untold ages, say research workers of the Federal Writers Project, the petrified bones of the prehistoric monster protruded from the side of one of the highest hills in Nebraska overlooking the Missouri River in Boyd County. Here the bones were first found by Lewis and Clark in their expedition from St. Louis up the Missouri River to its headwaters in 1804 says the journal of the expedition.

“September 10, Monday: a slight breeze carried us up past two small islands one on the south and one on the north hill. At the distance of ten and one half miles, we reached an island extending two miles in the middle of the river, covered with red cedar from which it derives its name, Cedar Island. Just below the island on a hill to the south is the backbone of a fish, 45 feet long, tapering toward the tail, and in a perfect state of petrification, fragments of which were collected and sent to Washington.”

After their discovery by Lewis and Clark, the bones lay undisturbed while many years passed. The land of which Boyd County is now a part, was set aside by the government as a Sioux Indian reservation.

Then in 1891 this region was opened to settlement. One day in 1892 a settler named Henry Storm rediscovered the bones. After much toiling and excavating, he moved the whole petrified form from its original resting place on the hill to his vacant lots in Spencer. Here the skeleton excited much comment among townspeople and among visitors who came to see it.

Finally, Storm sold the lots to a man named S. K. Wallace and the bones went with them.

Wallace cared little for the paleontological and historic value of the bones and instead saw a practical use for them. That was to break them into blocks and use them in a foundation.

This was done. For several years after that, there stood on Spencer’s main street a building whose foundation was contributed by a monster fish which once swam the inland sea in and about this region.”

In a letter published only in the Comstock Journal of September 7, 1939, A.J. Krikac of Butte took issue with the above story. He wrote: “In the first place, this rock was not located on the highest hill in Nebraska, but was on a little ridge above the lay of the country, and about one third of the length of the rock protruded, that being the small end, or tail, supposedly. “Henry Storm had his homestead adjoining the townsite of Spencer and was running a saloon in that town, which was just a block from his house, the house being built on his homestead.

“People located near the ridge found the rock sticking out and told Mr. Storm about it, and he, upon inquiry, found out that it was supposed to be a petrified fish.

“He hired several men and several teams, had the rock dug out, which they broke into pieces about five feet long, and some also were split in two the long way, being too heavy to load on a common wagon and had it hauled to the lots where his business was located. There the rock was laid together just as it had been in the hill.

“His intention was to have it hauled to O’Neill, 35 miles distant, there being no railroad at Spencer at that time, and have it cemented together just as it lay in the hill and have a cement head attached to it. His plan was then to have it loaded onto two railroad cars and show it all over the United States. That was in 1892 and would have cost a great deal of money, and Mr. Storm did not have the necessary funds.

“In July 1893, Charles Ghestak and I bought Mr. Storm’s business and building still located on the original lot where the rock laid. Mr. Storm was to keep the rock as his own property until the first of March, and then the contract was if he had not moved it when that date came, it was to belong to us. He did not move it and we sold the property and business to Vac Barta on May 11, 1894.

“The property has changed hands many times since that date but county records do not show that the property at any time belonged to a person by the name of S. K. Wallace.

“The rock remained there until 1905, when the Storz Brewing Company purchased the lots and built a brick building thereon using the rock for foundation material.

“There were no signs of any petrified bones in the rock or anything that would resemble the shape of fish bones. It was pure limestone, and it was evident that it was a stalagmite from some prehistoric cave that had been carried down by an iceberg of the great glacier, some of the same material having been deposited in like situations on several hills or buttes in Nebraska and other states.

“Many people called it a snake, and many other names were given it. From that time on some people called Spencer “Snakeville” or “Snaketown,“ which names are not exactly appreciated by present Spencerites. A.J. KRIKAC, Butte, Nebraska.”

School Kitchen Modernization Grants: The Nebraska Department of Education is accepting applications for a grant opportunity that will provide more than $2.2 million in RHTP funding to help rural and frontier schools improve the quality of school meals. Eligible schools and school districts may receive up to $100,000 per year to upgrade food preparation and storage infrastructure, making it easier to prepare meals from scratch and incorporate more whole foods into school menus. This initiative aims to reduce reli ance on highly processed “heatand- serve” foods, increase access to healthier and more nutritious meals made with fresh ingredients, increase access to locally produced protein, and boost student participation in school meal programs. Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2026, unless all available funds are committed prior to that date. Applications will be reviewed upon submission. For more information, visit https:// dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Grant-Opportunities. aspx#docaccess-6f7aa0f-812cd8d4652ae95e8291646c0 Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals: This initiative will provide funding to help Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals upgrade their infrastructure, technology, and equipment. These improvements will support the expansion and enhancement of healthcare services, helping rural hospitals strengthen operations and improve long-term financial stability. This is a funding opportunity for Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals. Applications are ongoing. For more information, visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Grant-Opportunities.aspx#docaccess-37474a5a69655701a1dcd-10e0d40f967 Rural Virtual Reality (VR) and Skills Acceleration Network: This initiative supports healthcare education and workforce training by providing advanced learning opportunities for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, instructors, hospital staff, and other healthcare providers. This is a funding opportunity for eligible and qualified agencies to provide training to EMS and other healthcare professionals to build skills, improve patient care, and stay current with evolving healthcare needs by using VR and high-fidelity training equipment. Applications are due July 24, 2026. For more information and eligibility information, visit https://dhhs. ne.gov/Grants%20and%20Contract% 20Opportunity%20Docs/ RHTP%20Initiative%203.2%20 RFA.pdf Modification of Existing Clinical Facilities for Mental Health Crisis: This initiative supports rural hospitals and behavioral health providers with funding to purchase equipment and make small renovations to existing facilities in order to expand crisis response, stabilization, and substance use withdrawal services in rural communities. Eligible entities include local governments, Native American tribes, institutions of higher education, and nonprofit entities located in and providing services in Nebraska that serve rural areas. Applications are due August 31, 2026. For more information, visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Grant-Opportunities.aspx#docaccess-08afa255bf04f01226771fa-8ca633a5a DHHS intends to release multiple RFAs over the next five years to provide organizations with numerous opportunities to apply for funds and assist in implementing this important work. There will be additional application opportunities in each funding year, depend ing on funding availability.

RHTP is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernize rural health care and make it more sustainable. Nebraska’s plan will build a prevention first, techenabled, sustainable rural health care system.

Laurel went 1-2 in the tournament to finish in a tie for ninth.

“I felt like we played well down there,” said team manager, Brian Gould. “We competed hard the entire tournament and we did some things that surprised me.”

One of the things the team accomplished was hitting a couple of home runs.

“We hadn’t hit a home run all season and we got two down there at state,” he said. “Tae (Settje) and Riley (Loberg) got home runs and that kind of got us going.

“These girls have been great to coach all year and are a bunch of really good kids. We honestly got better as the season went along.”

This team didn’t get as far as a Laurel Bear 14 & under team that brought home a Class D title recently, but they did enough things right to make it interesting.

The Bears dropped their first game to Bruning-Davenport-Shickley in a 6-2 game.

“We didn’t really get the bats going,” the coach said. “We played pretty well overall, but they just got a couple of more hits than we did and we lost.”

Next up was the KT Diamonds out of Kearney and Gould and company found the offense at the plate and ended up with a 12-7 win.

“That game showed our potential,” said Gould. “We got things rolling at the plate and everything just kind of fell into place from there.”

The Bears exited the tournament with a 7-3 loss to Bow Spirit 18U out of Broken Bow.

“That game was kind of like our first game down there,” said the coach. “We played pretty good, but they just got a couple of additional hits that moved them along and sent us home.”

Most of this group of girls has been involved in long runs at the state tournament and Gould has been along for the ride, and although this was a comparatively short stay, the coach was proud of his team.

“These girls competed all season long, they never quit and just kept moving forward,” he said. “I’m proud of each and every one of these girls.”

Members of the team are Brynlee Stanley, Faith Galvin, Grace Galvin, Jolyn Kinkaid, Kaida Eriksen, Karli Ferris, Leah Gould, Madyson Campbell, Nora Lange, Nora Specht, Ruby Jonas, Ryleigh Loberg, Taelynn Settje and Willa Roberts.

Knife River Midwest, of Sioux City, Iowa, is the contractor for this project. Work includes bridge and railroad crossing work. Traffic will be detoured to US-20 and N-59. Anticipated completion is mid-to-late August. Additional work will continue under traffic.

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and put phones down.

Found walking west on Highway 20 between Randolph and Osmond, Sweetland shared his story and his mission.

He started in St. Augustine, Fla., on Feb. 1, traveled up through Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky, where he went to the Ark Encounter, which is a life-size Noah’s ark exhibit, then headed west from there, through St. Louis, Missouri, Iowa and now Nebraska.

Sweetland’s ultimate destination, although still fluid, is Newport, OR. He laughed and added, “or maybe Astoria, Oregon, that’s where they filmed ‘The Goonies.’ I’m a Gen X-er, so Goonies Forever.”

Roland Sweetland served in the Army National Guard for 32 years. “I love America, and have driven this road several times, up to Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone,” he said. He wanted to go there this time, but it’s illegal to push a cart through Yellowstone – and dangerous, he added.

He explained that he is doing this because he wants to show his kids and his grandkids that “you can do it.” Another reason is spelled out on his shirt, which says “Make America Love Again” in American Sign Language. His parents are deaf, as are other people he knows.

“I just want to spread some love and show people how wonderful America is, and how beautiful it is,” he explained. “There are several of us doing this.”

He and others are sharing their missions on Facebook. It’s hard to tell how many people try this every year, he said. “Some say it’s as few as 12, some say about 100. I do know that fewer people walk across America than summit Mt. Everest, so it’s a small group.”

Sweetland added that those who walk the highways have to be careful.

“You can’t take the traffic for granted,” he said. “I’ve been run off the road – once on purpose. It’s usually the middle-aged white men, like a road-rage thing. They don’t always notice me, so I give a little flash (of my hand) to catch their eye, and sometimes when I do that, it triggers something and makes them angry, like ‘I knew you were there!’ I’m not trying to get on them, I’m just trying to stay safe.”

Sweetland said that he had “flashed” one man who jerked his steering wheel, which he said many do instinctively, but this driver “full out aimed his truck toward me, and ran me off the road. I feel sorry for them. I don’t know what he was going through that day. I had just gone through the Smoky Mountains, where there’s no shoulders, and thankfully I was coming out of it, and it just happened to be where I could jump off the road and not kill myself. So it’s dangerous, but we mitigate the danger the best we can.”

Roland’s family includes his parents, a son and daughter and grandchildren, who all support him in doing this.

He is retired now, and living off retirement and VA compensation. He said, especially in these rural areas, everyone supports the military. He commented on the people from other countries who are visiting in our country who say how great it is here, and it is, he said, calling it the best country in the history of man.

Roland said there are some beautiful countries out there, but walking through, mainly Iowa and then Nebraska, which has more trees, it reminds him of some screensavers one gets on their TV when they haven’t been watching for a while, that shows pictures of Italy or other similar countries.

“It looks like southern Italy here,” he commented. “It’s a beautiful country, and it is different at three miles an hour. I’ve driven through here before, and nothing looks familiar. It all looks different when you’re walking.”

For those who would like to follow his journey, Roland Sweetland is sharing his adventure on Facebook under his name. To follow others on similar journeys, search for “walking across America.”

Boaters spotted a 65-year-old San Leandro, California, man near the South Shore Area of Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area. They rescued him onto a pontoon boat, and a Crofton Fire and Rescue ambulance took him to Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton, South Dakota, where he was pronounced dead.

At 3:38 p.m., the Knox County 911 Center received a report of a man who had been injured while operating a personal watercraft west of Gavins Point Dam. The caller reported the man was having difficulty breathing and needed immediate medical assistance.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission officers are investigating the incident.

Also responding were the Yankton Search and Rescue and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks conservation officers.

COLERIDGE — A large crowd, estimated to be one of the largest ever to participate in a Fourth of July celebration in Coleridge, was treated to one of the most spectacular events ever held here.

Cooperation by the weatherman contributed to the day’s activities as a warm day greeted the many spectators.

Dick Tillotsen of Battle Creek driving a 1956 Ford won the Demolition Derby after eluding 38 other entries. He took home a purse of $200.00 for grand prize and $25.00 for being a heat winner.

Winners were as follows: FIRST HEAT: Gary Meier, Coleridge, ‘57 Dodge SECOND HEAT: Larry Paulsen, Coleridge. ‘59 Chevy THIRD HEAT: Dick Tillotsen, Battle Creek, ‘56 Ford FOURTH HEAT: David Pick, Hartington, ‘57 Ford FIFTH HEAT: Russell Cook, Coleridge, ‘57 Plymouth CONSOLATION RUN: Jim Specht, Coleridge, ‘51 Oldsmobile GRAND CHAMP: Dick Tillotsen, Battle Creek, ‘56 Ford 

July 15, 1971

LAUREL — St. Mary’s Altar Society held their annual summertime Honorary Tea, Thursday, July 8 at the church.

Church women honored for their long and dedicated service to the church were Mrs. Dan McCarthy, Mrs. James Duffy, Mrs. R. P. Carroll, Mrs. George Weidenfeld, Mrs. Madelyn Dresden, Mrs. Grover Bass and Mrs. Ralph Kiefer. Honorary members unable to attend were Mrs. Marie Mallett, Winnie Collins, Mrs. Annette Maloney, Mrs. A. A. Lange, Mrs. Louis Jurgensen, Mrs. Teresa Lukes, Mrs. Veronica Sudbeck, Mrs. John Bruns and Mrs. Albert Miller.

Each honorary member was presented a gift.

Father Michael Kelly spoke briefly to the group. Mrs. Joe Mc-Coy read several poems.

A salad luncheon was served by the July and August hostesses.

Assisting were Mrs. Mark Dendinger, Mrs. Joe McCoy, Mrs. Clem Casey, Mrs. Dorothy Wintz, Mrs. Claire Hirschman, Mrs. Paul Lenzen and Mrs. Leo Reifenrath.

July 15, 1971

LAUREL — The Laurel Bit and Bridle Saddle Club 4-H and Open Horse Show will be held at the Airedale Riding Grounds Friday, July 23.

The 4-H show will begin at 4:30 p.m. Entry fee in the open classes is $1 per person, each class.

Three ribbons will be awarded in each class except six ribbons in Ribbon and Pickup; nine ribbons in Baton Race; and 12 ribbons in Inner Tube Race. First prize winners receive 50% of entry fees for that class.

July 15, 1971

LAUREL — The senior band will have a rehearsal Saturday morning, July 17, from 9 to 11. Sunday, they will go to Wisner to march in the parade.

July 15, 1976

LAUREL — The Laurel Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a carnival in town for Laurel Bicentennial Days. The rides and concessions of Kettleborough Amusements will be set up on Pine Street between the main street and Third Street.

Advance tickets for the rides are on sale, at four for $1.

July 15, 1976

LAUREL — The annual Laurel-Concord Band Parents’ “pops” concert and ice cream social is scheduled in conjunction with the Laurel Bicentennial celebration on Thursday evening, July 22.

Homemade ice cream and pie will be served by the band parents during a concert by the Laurel-Concord band and swing choir, on the east side of the city auditorium at 8:30 p.m. July 22.

July 15, 1976

LAUREL — It was decided the parade will pass down Main Street only once. Winners of the floats will be announced at the City Park shortly after the conclusion of the parade.

It is suggested that visitors park their cars north of 2nd, at the ball park and on Elm and Oak. Buses for the bands will be parked on Cedar between 4th and 6th streets.

Participants in the Kiddie Parade should be in Gowery’s parking lot. Judging will be at 9:45 a.m. and prizes will be offered for best decorated bikes, and best costumes.

The main parade will then follow down Main Street. Three prizes for floats will be given.

July 9, 1981

LAUREL — Officers, directors and employees at Security National Bank in Laurel are preparing for an open house to “show off” the new bank facilities. The building was completed early this year and has been in use since the end of January.

The “grand opening” is scheduled July 23, with a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

Tours of the bank will be conducted followed by a “country style” picnic served at the city auditorium.

July 9, 1981

LAUREL — The Laurel Recreation Program is again offering tennis and gymnastics.

Tennis will be offered to any interested girl or boy between the ages of 8 and 14. Lessons will be held during the weeks of July 13-25.

Gymnastics will be offered to any interested girl or boy between the ages of 5 and 14. Lessons are scheduled the weeks of August 3-14.

Jackson E. Metheny was arrested May 18 and is charged with possession of a controlled substance and attempted stalking, both Class IV felonies. A Class IV felony carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and 12 months of post-release supervision, a $10,000 fine, or both.

Metheny also is charged with three separate counts of attempted violation of a protection order, two counts of criminal trespassing and one count of disturbing the peace.

According to the complaint, Metheny allegedly attempted to willfully harass Angela Johnson or a family or household member of Johnson with the intent to injure, terrify, threaten or intimidate. The complaint alleges he has a prior stalking conviction within the past seven years.

The charges further allege Metheny attempted to violate an October 2025 protection order directing him not to contact Johnson or members of her family.

Metheny was convicted of felony stalking involving Johnson in 2023.

He was arraigned in Cedar County District Court June 2 and pleaded not guilty to the charges.

He is being represented by court-appointed attorney Andrew Devereux.

Court records state that a person was captured by a security camera at the Johnsons’ rural Laurel residence. Law enforcement noted the person was wearing a distinctive ball cap that officers believed matched one Metheny was wearing when questioned about the allegations.

Court documents also state that Metheny was searched following his arrest and was found with a small plastic bag containing a white crystalline substance. The substance later tested positive for methamphetamine, according to the records.

Nebraska law classifies knowing or intentional possession of a controlled substance, other than specified exceptions, as a Class IV felony.

Metheny also has pending felony and misdemeanor charges in Dixon County, according to court documents.

Those charges include burglary, possession of drug paraphernalia, disturbing the peace, criminal trespassing and theft by unlawful taking.

The proponents, known as Respect Nebraska Voters, argue that increasing the threshold to tweak or overturn voter-passed laws — such as casino gambling, caps on payday lending, medical cannabis legalization and regulation, minimum wage increases and guaranteed paid sick leave — is necessary because of state lawmakers’ interference in 2025 and 2026.

If successful, the threshold of state senators needed to change voter-approved laws would increase from 33 of 49 lawmakers (twothirds) to 40 (four-fifths). That would be for any changes, including positive ones, for laws that voters have approved since 2004 and into the future.

'Too many politicians think they know what’s best for Nebraskans, that they know better than the people that elected them,” said Jo Giles, one of three sponsors of the campaign. “But Nebraskans know what’s best for Nebraskans, and after we vote, politicians should listen.”

Under the group’s proposal, only legislation to facilitate and “safeguard” voter-enacted laws, and which “advance a compelling state interest by the least restrictive means,” could be passed by the Legislature after a successful ballot measure at all. That could set up new legal challenges.

The effort also constitutionally seeks to prevent the Legislature from making ballot measures tougher to run. The changes would not address constitutional signature gathering requirements.

“Such laws may include neutral, ministerial and administrative laws necessary to facilitate the fair, orderly and efficient administration of these powers, but no law shall be valid that conditions, restricts, burdens or otherwise impairs the exercise of these powers,” the proposed constitutional amendment states.

The campaign needs roughly 126,000 of its signatures to be valid for the measure to reach voters. That bulk total must include at least 5% of registered voters in at least 38 of the state’s 93 counties. The deadline for local county officials to validate signatures is early September.

Giles, the executive director of the Women’s Fund of Omaha, was previously one of the sponsors of the 2024 petition effort to guarantee some paid sick leave for nearly all Nebraska workers. She and other supporters lamented that lawmakers exempted some teen workers and agricultural employees from approved paid sick leave protections, for instance, changes Giles’ campaign said removed guaranteed paid sick leave for 140,000 workers.

This spring, lawmakers locked annual minimum wage bumps at 1.75% each year, rather than the cost of inflation as voters approved in 2022, and created a “youth minimum wage” that dips below the current $15 minimum wage. The youth wage takes effect July 18.

City leaders in Lincoln passed an ordinance restoring the 2022 ballot language, and Omaha could soon follow suit. Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers is suing to block the city’s effort.

Employers can still choose to offer more paid sick leave or pay higher than the minimum wage.

New buildings were going up right and left, and a basement was being dug at the corner of Oak and Second for Everett and Waite’s new store – Laurel‘s first brick building. It is still standing. In 1893 Laurel would be the only town in Cedar County to celebrate Independence Day and thousands of visitors were expected.

Unfortunately, a heavy rain drenched the area during the night and Laurel’s streets were filled with standing water and mud. The celebration would go on as planned, however, and all within earshot were awakened at sunrise by an artillery salute.

The cannon’s report was the signal that the festivities were about to begin.

(Note: There were no cannons in Laurel at that time. Anvils were “fired” instead. Blacksmith A.N. Jeffrey brought out two ordinary anvils. A layer of gunpowder was spread on one and another anvil was set on top of it. Jeffrey then touched a red hot rod to the powder. It exploded with a terrific bang that sent the top anvil flying.)

By 10 o’clock, the streets were filled with vehicles of every description including horse drawn carriages with two or three passengers, farm wagons packed with families, and tiny baby buggies with single occupants. A temporary shed, capable of holding 28 teams, was hastily erected to handle the overflow from the livery stables. After the morning passenger trains discharged visitors from neighboring towns, the swarm of people on Laurel’s dirt streets and wooden sidewalks created the illusion of a much larger city. The total number of visitors was estimated at 3,000. By midmorning, the crowd began to assemble at an open air pavilion that had been constructed especially for the day. At 10:30 a.m., Dr. E.M. Williams stepped to the speaker’s platform and announced the Coleridge Cornet Band would open the festivities.

After a few patriotic numbers, Rev. W.N. Rouse read the Declaration of Independence followed by Judge Norris of Ponca who gave a lengthy patriotic oration. In those days, long-winded speeches were expected by listeners who had not yet developed TV-shortened attention spans.

Around noon the sun came out, the water dried up, and the mud began to revert to dust. At 1:30 p.m. the street parade got underway with music and flying colors. The procession, which wound through all of Laurel’s principal streets (there weren’t many), featured decorated wagons representing the states of the union and small boys carrying banners representing Laurel‘s twenty or so businesses.

Most of the businessmen were working at their food and beverage stands. Druggist N.C. Brewer reported selling a whiskey barrel full of ice cream and 30 barrels of lemonade. Who emptied the whiskey from the barrels was not reported.

In the afternoon, races of all kinds were held. These included a fat man’s race — prize, $2; a greased pig race – prize, the pig; and a free for all pony race “restricted to anything with four legs and hair.“ There were foot races, pony races, mule races and a tug of war – presumably restricted to anything with two legs with or without hair.

A major attraction billed as “one of the most ferocious animals — a cross between a panther and a tiger — will fight his keeper, a wild man from the deserts of Arabia.“ Evidently the wild man and his cat canceled. Spectators had to make do with a fight between “a ferocious dog and a man-eating gorilla“. Although the latter contest was mentioned before the celebration, it was not mentioned afterwards. The writer doubts that it occurred. At 3:00 p.m. a baseball game took place between Laurel and Coleridge. The visitors won. After witnessing a “thrilling balloon ascension and parachute leap” (probably by Prof. Winterringer of Hartington) the crowd returned to the pavilion for a grand bowery dance. The celebration ended with a fireworks display of “immense quantity and quality.”

Four hundred dollars had been contributed by Laurel businessmen to pay for the shindig. After all expenses had been paid, $6 was left. The Advocate reported the local saloonkeepers contributed $25 to the fund but didn’t get a very big return on their investment: “There was not a drunk man in Laurel on the Fourth.”

Well, maybe one or two. According to the Advocate of June 9, 1894, the Coleridge Cornet band was paid $75 to play whenever called upon. But when the band was needed to head the afternoon parade, several musicians had been “partaking freely of the red fluid“ (wine). Whether the band broke out in improvised jazz solos was not reported. The alleged impropriety created hard feelings between the two communities that led to a running editorial feud between the Blade and the Advocate that continued for years.

This article was one of the first written after I began this column in 1991. The following supplement, which I found only recently, is a description of the celebration that appeared in the Coleridge Blade on July 6, 1893.

“Everybody was in the best of spirits on the morning of the Fourth owing to the magnificent rain the night before. The morning train was boarded by a crowd of patriotic people who were determined that no part of the celebration in Laurel should escape them.

From early morning until 10 o’clock, a string of teams poured out of the village loaded with band men, ball players and ordinary citizens, all bound for the point where the Short Line crosses the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha railroad in the Logan Valley about nine miles southeast of Coleridge. Notwithstanding the morning exodus, there still were enough people to fill the noon train from cowcatcher to the rear platform of the caboose.

Everything passed off quietly and according to program at the celebration. The ball game in the afternoon was the attraction of the day. The Coleridge team was pitted against a picked Laurel team that included three professionals from Tekamah and Schwartz and Welbaum. While the combination contained some strong players, it soon became evident they were not in the same league as the Coleridge boys. The final score stood 10 to 2 in favor of Coleridge.

The morning of the Fifth found all of our people at home, some arriving early and some arriving late, but all agreeing they had a good time and singing loud praises of the hospitality of the Laurel people.”

LAUREL — Wanted to buy: A bowl, size 7 1-4, a mirror and a pair of barber’s clippers.

This ad might be read in any newspaper in Cedar County after Monday, July 15. That is the day barbers in the county raise the price of all their haircuts to 75 cents and shaves to 50 cents.

The increase was decided by Cedar County barbers at a meeting Monday night at Christenson’s Barber Shop in Hartington. It was stated that all barbers present, except A.J. Ford of Laurel, voted for a 10-cent increase on haircuts and a 15-cent increase on shaves.

It was also reported that discussion was held about the possibility the state of Nebraska might take the matter in hand and establish a maximum price of 65 cents for haircuts and 35 cents for shaves.

At the new rates, it will cost the average family man about $3 every two weeks, or approximately $78 a year, to keep himself and his family trimmed.

July 10, 1946

LAUREL — Miss Marian Gerow of Omaha has been hired by the board of education to serve as English instructor and dramatics supervisor at the local high school for the coming school year.

Miss Gerow was secured through the efforts of H.A. Linn, superintendent of schools, who was in Omaha and Lincoln last week seeking teachers to complete the faculty.

July 4, 1946

COLERIDGE — Announcement has been made that the faculty for the coming year in the local school is complete. Five teachers from last year are returning to their positions and there will be four new teachers on the staff.

Faculty members returning include Melvin Abrahamson, superintendent; Miss Ruth Pederson of Mission Hill, S.D., English and music; Miss Emma Bartling, seventh and eighth grades; Miss Eileen Schutt, fifth and sixth grades; Miss Ruby Jacobson of Creighton, third and fourth grades; and Mrs. M. Klanderud of Wynot, first and second grades.

New members have been contracted for the high school faculty and are as follows: Mrs. Ivy Stacey will teach home economics. Mrs. Stacey was formerly a Smith-Hughes instructor at Arnold and acquired a fine reputation in teaching circles.

Miss Laura Anderson of Hartington will be the commercial teacher.

Miss Sally Yoder of Lincoln is joining the local faculty and will be the instructor in mathematics.

The fourth instructor will be Henry J. Clinch of Verdel. He has been engaged as principal and coach. He has had previous experience at Stanton and the athletic teams of that school compiled excellent records under his direction.

The school term is scheduled to begin on Sept. 2 During the summer months the building is being nicely renovated and will be in its usual excellent condition when the school year opens.

July 4, 1946

COLERIDGE — After closing the first half of the season in the Cedar County League with a record of three victories and four defeats, the Coleridge team opened the second half of the season here Sunday with a 3-2 defeat at the hands of a visiting Laurel team. The game was highly interesting for spectators and the outcome was in doubt until the final out.

Laurel opened the first inning with a three-run scoring bee. The scores came through a combination of three hits, a walk, a passed ball, and a sacrifice hit. In the balance of the game they were able to collect only three more hits and in only one inning did they have a man on base in scoring position.

Coleridge went scoreless until the third inning when they scored their first run on a walk, a hit, and a passed ball. They added another score in the seventh through a walk and two hits. Five other scoring threats fell short.

In each of the second, fourth, fifth, sixth, and eighth innings the local boys had runners as far as second but were unable to get them across the plate.

July 4, 1946

COLERIDGE — The Pearl Creek 4-H girls club met at the home of JoAnn Craig on Friday. Reports were given on things that happened at the 4-H camp at Hartington. Carol Dempsey, JoAnn Craig, and Beverly Bayne represented the club at the camp.

LAUREL — Thirty-six people attended a C.I.P. Boosters meeting June 21 at the Fire Hall to discuss flood control and water problems in the community.

Leonard Miller of the Soil Conservation Service used aerial maps of Laurel and surrounding farmland to identify problem areas. He suggested grassed waterways and water-control structures west and south of town to help manage runoff from the golf course and across Highway 20.

Residents also discussed ways to divert floodwater from homes in east Laurel. Miller stressed the need for cooperation among rural and city residents affected by the flooding.

City Manager L.J. Mallatt said the drainage ditch through town could not be deepened because water and gas lines cross beneath it. He said the city would work with residents on practical solutions.

Mallatt also addressed seepage problems at homes along the drainage ditch, saying the area’s high water table was contributing to wet and flooded basements after rainfall.

County Commissioner Dan Mc-Carthy and Cedar County Road Supt. Gerald Kavanaugh also attended.

A flood control board was formed to study the problem and coordinate with state, county and city officials, as well as affected landowners. Members are Harold Duttke, Harold Ward, Bud Wichman, Don Ward, Will Mason and Mallatt, who will serve as a temporary member.

July 8, 1971

LAUREL — The Laurel Town Team traveled to Wausa Thursday night and came home with a 3-1 victory.

Wausa started the scoring with a run in the second inning. Laurel tied up the game in the sixth.

The local nine collected two runs off three hits in the top of the eighth to go out front. Wausa threatened in their half of the eighth, with bases loaded and only one out, but two strikeouts retired the side.

Laurel had a base runner in the ninth but failed to score. The hosts couldn’t get anything started in the final frame as the side went down in order.

Gene Elliott started on the mound for Laurel and was credited with the win. He gave up seven hits, walked six and struck out two. Terry Lutt came on in relief in the eighth. He allowed no hits or walks and fanned four.

July 8, 1971

LAUREL — Sunday, July 11, has been set aside by the entire Laurel community to honor Dr. R. P. Carroll for 50 years of faithful and dedicated service to the people of Laurel and the surrounding communities.

The day will begin with a Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Laurel.

A banquet, sponsored by the Laurel Chamber of Commerce, community clubs and churches, will be held.

Following the banquet, a program will be presented, designating the highlights and sidelights in the life of a small town doctor.

Banquet tickets are being sold in advance by individuals of the community. July 15, 1976

LAUREL — Gerald F. Mallatt has resigned from the Laurel police department, effective July 1.

Mallatt cites his reasons for resigning to be “the outside department interference in police affairs and the Council’s decision not to recognize the necessity to upgrade the services and requirements of your police department.”

July 15, 1976

LAUREL — The 1976 school census enumeration report, just completed by Mrs. George O’Gara, shows the total of 491 school age children, from 5 to 18 years of age, residing in the district. There are 253 boys and 238 girls.

The number of children in each age group is as follows: Age No. of children Under 1 23 1 year 32 2 years 19 3 years 27 4 years 32 5 years 20 6 years 32 7 years 26 8 years 24 9 years 33 10 years 28 11 years 35 12 years 39 13 years 40 14 years 49 15 years 41 16 years 53 17 years 41 18 years 30

July 15, 1976

LAUREL — Ron Neigut, who hails from Torrance, Calif., is opening an auto parts business in Laurel. The NAPA store, to be known as Ron’s Auto Parts, will begin business Monday, July 19. The store is located in the Wiltse building on Laurel’s main street. Neigut, his wife Carol and four-year-old daughter Susan, are residing in Laurel.

July 15, 1976

LAUREL — It was decided that the parade will pass down main street only once. Winners of the floats will be announced at the City Park shortly after the conclusion of the parade.

Residents of Laurel are asked to keep the following streets clear, please, of vehicles on either side for lining up the entries and for the parade route: 3rd and 4th streets from Highway 20 east to Alma; Wakefield and Cedar streets from 2nd to 6th streets; 2nd (Main) from Alma to Cedar; and 4th street between Wakefield and Cedar. It is suggested visitors park their cars north of 2nd, at the ball park and on Elm and Oak.

As part of the program, DHHS will partner with the NDE to lead objectives directly benefiting school food service operations across the state.

The Nebraska Rural Health Transformation Program will provide direct support to schools participating in the USDA National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs through several key initiatives:

• Infrastructure Grants: Rural schools or districts can apply for grants of up to $100,000 per year to modernize food preparation and storage infrastructure. This funding will help schools transition toward scratch and semi-scratch cooking.

• Local Procurement Support: The NDE will provide technical assistance to help schools navigate the procurement and acquisition of locally produced and grown food items.

• Healthy Kitchen-Ready Products: Grants will be available for food infrastructure equipment designed to develop products that reduce the preparation burden on school kitchen staff.

• Professional Development: The NDE will implement the Nebraska School Nutrition Training Institute, offering school food service staff continuing education and experiential learning focused on scratch-cooking techniques and chronic-disease-prevention menu design.

By removing barriers to healthy meals, the program aligns with the NDE Strategic Plan to improve student achievement and reduce chronic absenteeism by supporting the holistic well-being of Nebraska’s students.

Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2026, unless all available funds are committed prior to that date and can be found online at https://dhhs.ne.gov/ Pages/Grant-Opportunities. aspx#docaccess-6f7aa0f812cd-8d4652ae95e8291646c0.

Thursday, July 9: Primp and Pamper, Nail Salon, Arts and Crafts, Ecumenical Church, Summer Pen Pal Program, Social Time.

Friday, July 10: Morning Coffee/ Daily Chronicles, Outside Time, Current Events, Movie and Popcorn, Social Time.

Saturday, July 11: Residents Choice, Open Centers, Catholic Mass (TV), Communion to Follow.

Sunday, July 12: Ecumenical Church, Residents Choice, Arts and Crafts/Table Games.

Monday, July 13: Morning Coffee Club/Daily Chronicles, Fair Projects, Food For Fun - National BeansnFranksDay,Crafts,BookClub, Garden Club, Social Time.

Tuesday, July 14: Morning Coffee Club/DailyChronicles,Crafts,Fair

Project pack up and go, Sit and Stitch, Painting Class, Social Time.

COLERIDGE MEALS ON WHEELS Wednesday, July 8: Baked Ziti, Grilled Zucchini & Squash, Peanut ButterDreamBar,AppleSlices,Garlic Bread, Milk.

Thursday, July 9: Roast Turkey w/Gravy, Glazed Sweet Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Carrot Cake Bars, Peaches, Bread/Butter, Milk.

Friday, July 10: BBQ Beef on Bun, Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole, Honey Glazed Carrots, Summer Fruit Cup, Milk.

Monday, July 13: Chicken Bacon Penne, Broccoli and Cauliflower Parmesan, Pineapple Angel Food Cake, Mandarin Oranges, Bread/ Butter, Milk.

Tuesday,July14: Ham,Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Buttered Corn, Apple Crisp, Pears, Bread/Butter, Milk.

After a successful morning, it was time for the public Style Show. At the public Style Show the 4-Hers were able to model what they made to their family and friends.

Results from the Fashion Show were, in the Consumer Management category: for the $20 Shopping Challenge under 12 Reserve Champion was Ashley Schmit and Champion was Heidi Lewon; in the $20 Shopping Challenge 12 and over, Reserve Champion was Brianna Jensen and Champion was Tenley Schmit; in Shopping in Style the Reserve Champion was Heidi Lewon and Champion was Maleah Heimes. Both Heidi and Maleah are eligible to represent Cedar County at the Nebraska State Fair.

Next up was the Constructed Clothing categories. For STEAM Clothing 1 the Reserve Champion was Maya Lammers and Champion was Kit Sorenson. STEAM Clothing 1 is the division where a 4-Her exhibits a simple article requiring basic sewing skills. These exhibits could be anything from a pillowcase, simple pillow, bag/purse or a simple top, bottom, dress or romper.

In STEAM Clothing 2 the Reserve Champion was Tenley Schmit and Champion was Heidi Lewon. STEAM Clothing 2 consists of 4-Her’s exhibits entered in this project must reflect at least one new skill learned. Some examples could be a top or bottom, dress or a twopiece outfit.

To end the Style Show, there were projects in the Beyond the Needle class, with Reserve Champion being Oakley Sorenson and Champion Heidi Lewon.

Before the lights were cut and curtains closed, overall Champion and Reserve Champion had to be named. This year’s 2026 overall Cedar County Reserve Grand Champion was Tenley Schmit, and this year’s 2026 overall Cedar County Grand Champion was Heidi Lewon.

The 4-H participants eligible to represent Cedar County at the Nebraska State Fair include: Heidi Lewon, Tenley Schmit, Maleah Heimes, Ruth Heimes, Oakley Sorenson and Kit Sorenson.

Organizers appreciate the support of the parents of all these great 4-Hers for helping them get ready for this day, and the award’s sponsors, Bank of Hartington, First Northeast Bank of Nebraska, Farmers & Merchants State Bank, Citizens State Bank, First State Bank of Randolph and Floral Designs.

“After the rough start of the summer we’ve had, it’s nice to have something so positive and exciting to talk about,” said Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regional superintendent Mike Morava, with reference to the recent 40,000-acre South Fork Fire that burned over most of the park. “This facility will be a popular way for visitors of all ages to cool off and will serve as a real showpiece for western Nebraska.”

Located on the west side of the park’s main complex, it won’t be hard for visitors to find. Rising about 40 feet above a 6-foot-deep zero-entry pool is a 310-foot-long dual-track racing waterslide.

The new facility plays upon Fort Robinson’s Old West heritage, with features such as a small stagecoach slide, horseshoe bubblers for toddlers and a spray feature modeled after one of the park’s many longhorn cattle. A dump bucket resembles Fort Robinson’s familiar water towers.

A new bathhouse and shade features complete the design. The bathhouse’s ranch-style architecture resembles a number of other historical buildings at the park, including the Mare Barn Complex, a recently refurbished structure that is among the places visitors can board their horses. In addition to restroom and shower facilities, it offers lockers for people to store items.

The new aquatic facility replaces a 46-year-old covered swimming pool that was in need of substantial repairs. The park attracts about 350,000 visitors each year, many of whom are taking part in family reunions.

The aquatic facility is open daily noon to 7 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults and $6 for children with season passes available. Vehicles entering Fort Robinson must have a Nebraska park entry permit, available at the park headquarters or at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

The project was funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund with matching dollars from the Nebraska Game and Parks Capital Maintenance Fund, the Robert B. Daugherty Foundation and an anonymous donor.

Some major events were canceled. Organizers for the annual National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., called off the event due to the extreme heat, as did organizers for the Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade in Philadelphia.

On Saturday night, the Great American State Fair and National Mall were ordered evacauated as a storm threatened, throwing into doubt the rest of the night’s programming. “Freedom 250 will share updates on programming and doors reopening — please stay close to our official channels for updates,” Freedom 250 spokesperson Danielle Alvarez said in a statement.

Alvarez released a statement later saying the event would resume at 9:30 Eastern time.

Scenes from the Capitol Hill Fourth of July Parade in Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team landing on the Ellipse on Saturday, July 4, 2026. (Video by Ashley Murray/States Newsroom) Forecasters predicted temperatures would reach around 100 degrees, with the possibility of an all-time record of 101 degrees in the nation’s capital, according to AccuWeather. Heat indexes were expected to reach 110 to 115 degrees.

The neighborhood Capitol Hill Fourth of July Parade however, went on, though shortened to one hour, instead of the usual two-hour event.

Some high school marching bands that traveled across the country to perform in the national parade, including those from Minnesota and Nebraska, switched last minute to march in the community Capitol Hill event.

“We flew in on Wednesday and were able to go sightseeing, and then last night we heard that the parade was canceled,” said Cassidy Moody, 28, the color guard coach for Grand Island Senior High School in Grand Island, Nebraska.

“When they found out this parade was happening, they were super pumped they could play their instruments in Washington,” Moody said, adding their tour guide connected them to parade organizers.

“This is so fun. I’m trying not to cry.” Other events up and down the sweltering East Coast carried on, including the burial in Philadelphia of a congressionally mandated time capsule to be unearthed, and opened, in 2276.

The capsule, organized by the bipartisan America250 commission, contains contributions from each state and territory; sports memorabilia, including an Olympic gold medal; a 1GB digital archive from the Library of Congress; and a pocket Constitution signed by each Supreme Court justice, among hundreds of other items.

The planetarium show “Dynamic Earth” will begin the day at noon, followed by the laser show “Classic Rock” at 1 p.m. The planetarium show “Earth, Moon, and Sun” will be at 2 p.m., and the laser show “Variety Pack” follows at 3 p.m. The shows conclude with the planetarium show “Stars” at 4 p.m.

“Dynamic Earth” explores the inner workings of Earth’s great life support system: the global climate. With visualizations based on satellite monitoring data and advanced supercomputer simulations, this cutting-edge production follows a trail of energy that flows from the Sun into the interlocking systems that shape our climate: the atmosphere, oceans, and the biosphere.

The Republican top election official, who lost his party’s primary in May, spoke with the Examiner about a lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee over a Nebraska state election law.

The RNC — joined in the lawsuit by Lancaster voters Jack Riggins and Pamela Dingman — objects to part of state law that says “a person who is the age of an elector and a citizen of the United States residing outside the United States, who has never resided in the United States, who has not registered to vote in any other state of the United States, and who has a parent registered to vote within this state shall be eligible to register to vote and vote in one county in which either one of his or her parents is a registered voter.”

Evnen said the number of people who have used this provision of the law to vote in Nebraska elections is almost nonexistent.

“Why this would now be the focus of attention of the RNC is a little baffling to me,” he said “The same day that this lawsuit was filed, a federal judge in Washington, D.C., enjoined the use of the SAVE database … You know, people have to make up their own minds about what they want to focus on,” Evnen said. “But I don’t understand why the RNC wouldn’t be focusing on that problem, versus this problem, which may be unconstitutional, but is just almost or virtually never used.”

Late last month, a federal judge ruled the Trump administration illegally overhauled a U.S. Department of Homeland Security computer program, the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements system, in its hunt for noncitizen voters. Evnen has called the SAVE database “a very useful tool.” He defended Nebraska’s use of the SAVE database because “you can’t just use that tool to disenfranchise someone if there’s an indication that someone is not a citizen; then you take further steps to give them an opportunity to correct the record if it’s wrong.”

An investigation earlier this year by The Texas Tribune and ProPublica found that the federal database has made mistakes that have led to confusion in Texas and Missouri.

The lawsuit argues that part of the law violates the state constitution because it allows U.S. citizens who have never resided in the state or country to vote in Nebraska elections. The language targeted by the RNC is from a law passed in 2005, rather than the 2010 law cited in the lawsuit, according to reporting by the Omaha World-Herald, which was confirmed by the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office. The 2005 law was passed during the George W. Bush administration, when Republicans controlled the U.S. House and U.S. Senate.

The sponsor of the 2005 law was then-state lawmaker Deb Fischer, who is now a U.S. senator. Nebraska U.S. Reps. Mike Flood and Adrian Smith were in the state legislature at the time. Flood proposed a tweak to the Fischer bill, as reported by the World-Herald.

Flood, in a statement to the World-Herald, said the original purpose of the 2005 law was to give “every opportunity” for “men and women serving our country overseas” to participate in the state elections. Flood said he supports the RNC lawsuit.

2ND THIRDS / 6TH WEEK RESULTS 1 Izac Reifenrath, Craig Gutz, Skyler Curry & Max Rasmussen 54

2 Sam Johnson 43.5

3 Landen Jansen 41.5

4 Greg Urwiler 39.5

5 Josh Johnson 36.5

6 Brent Johnson 35

7 Rod Hall 35

8 Brad Penlerick 35

9 Scott Rath 33.5

10 Ron Finnegan 32.5

11 Todd Sullivan 31.5

12 Greg Kvols 31

13 Noah Schutte 30

14 Caden Heithold 28

15 Steve Thompson 27.5

16 Nate Burns 27.5

17 Jamy McCoy 27.5

18 Bradyn Urwiler 27

19 Luke Kalin 22.5

20 Sam Recob 21.5

21 Chad Johnson 19.5

22 Dave Anderson 18.5

23 Kevin Erwin 18.5

24 Justin Eriksen 17

25 Jeff Erwin 15

Low Scratch Score

(0-5) Brad Penlerick (34), Izac Reifenrath & Jamy McCoy (35), Ty Erwin (37)

(6-9) Preston Nelson (37), Brent Johnson, Jeremy Hall & Jamie Johnson (39)

(10-13) Justin Swanson (39), Lee Dahl, TJ Anderson & Steve Smith (43)

(14+) Aaron Bloom (44), Skylar Heydon

(45), Josh Fleishmann & Kolten Settje

(46) SUB Todd Hahne (41), Carter Junck (51)

Low Handicap Score

(0-5) Brad Penlerick, Ty Erwin & Izac Reifenrath (32)

(6-9) Preston Nelson, Jeremy Hall & Jamie Johnson (30)

(10-13) Justin Swanson (29), Jeff Hartung & Max Rasmussen (32)

(14+) Josh Fleishmann, Aaron Bloom, Scott Haahr & Matt Haschke (30) SUB Carter Junck (31)

8

2 S.Martini/L.Brown/M.Biltoft

8

3 Ca.Kalin/To.Kalin/B.Eickhoff

6

4 D.Wilson/T.Hollander/M.Rose

6

5 K.Hammer/J.Bartling/A.Hahne

6

6 M.Grindvold/B.Hefner/L.Hansen

6

7 Ma.Steffen/P.Steffen/S.Steffen

6

8 R.Benson/Tr.Kalin/K.Hefner

6

9 Bob.Lauer/C.Brodersen/R.Brodersen

5

10 B.Penlerick/Mo.Miller/P.Nelson

4

11 D.Bohlken/M.Olsen/J.Hoffart

4

12 M.Sudbeck/Mar.Kuehn/T.Anderson

4

13 R.Hall/S.Dirks/Bill.Lauer

4

14 R.Kuehn/G.Kathol/C.Christensen

3

15 G.Howell/A.Smith/G.Yunker

2

16 J.McCoy/M.Hensley/M.McCoy

2

17 J.Nelson/B.Kalin/T.Burbach

2

18 S.Janssen/B.Hochstein/J.Becker

2

19 T.Cobler/D.Dowling/T.Lange

2

20 T.Folkers/R.Carl/A.Chrastil

2

21 K.Holm/J.Wolfe/M.Papenhausen

22 TyErwin/L.Jansen/C.Jansen

Low Individual Scratch:

A: Grant Howell 37 B: Taylor Hollander 37 C: Kerry Hefner 41 Low Individual Net: A: Grant Howell 33 B: Taylor Hollander 28.5 C: Kerry Hefner 32.5

Low Team Scratch: K.Hammer/J.Bartling/A.Hahne 129 Low Team Net: K.Hammer/J.Bartling/A.Hahne 108 First Half Winners: G.Howell/A.Smith/G.Yunker

A couple of tools can help producers monitor risk before animals are already in trouble. The Nebraska Mesonet Adult Cattle Comfort Index uses real-time weather station data to estimate cattle comfort levels across the state. The USDA Agricultural Research Service also has cattle heat stress forecast resources from the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center at Clay Center. Producers can find these by searching “Nebraska Mesonet cattle comfort index” or “USDA ARS cattle heat stress forecast.”

Preparation should start before the heat arrives. For cattle in pens, consider marketing finished or nearly finished cattle ahead of a major heat event. If that is not possible, move highrisk cattle to pens with better shade, airflow, water access, or bedding options. High-risk groups include finished or heavy cattle, dark-hided cattle, high-intake animals, livestock with previous health issues, and pens or pastures with limited water, shade, or airflow. Bulls are also worth watching, as heat stress can affect fertility for several weeks.

Water is the most important piece of heat stress management. Make sure tanks are clean, water flow is adequate, and animals have room to drink without crowding. In pens, temporary tanks can help spread cattle out. In pastures, check tanks, pipelines, ponds, and automatic waterers to be sure they can keep up with demand. Weak water flow may not be noticed until animals are already under stress.

Shade and airflow also matter. Shade needs to be large enough to avoid crowding and high enough to allow air movement. Poorly designed shade can concentrate animals and make conditions worse. In pasture settings, natural shade can help, but make sure water access is not forcing animals to travel long distances during the hottest part of the day. In feedlot pens, sprinklers can help when used correctly and started before cattle are in severe distress.

Limit handling during extreme heat. Avoid receiving, processing, sorting, hauling, rotating, or moving animals during the heat of the day. If livestock must be worked, do it early in the morning and keep the process quiet and low stress. Evening may feel cooler to us, but cattle may still be carrying heat from earlier in the day. For feedlot cattle, also avoid large or sudden feed changes. Storm rations or diets with more roughage may help lower metabolic heat load, while added fat should be avoided during extreme heat.

Signs of heat stress include open-mouth breathing, excessive salivation, bunching, restlessness, standing rather than lying down, and crowding around water or shade. Severe cases may become weak, uncoordinated, or go down. Once severe signs appear, options are limited, so prevention and early response are key.

Heat stress is serious, but preparation makes a difference. Watching the forecast, using heat stress tools, maintaining water, improving shade and airflow, reducing handling, and identifying high-risk animals can all help limit losses. For questions specific to feedlot heat stress, Dr. Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Educator in Cuming County, is a great resource. He can be reached at 402-3726006 or by email at adicostanzo3@unl.edu.

-Ben Beckman is a beef systems Extension Educator serving northeast Nebraska. He is based out of the Cedar County Extension office in Hartington. You can reach him by phone: (402) 254-6821 or email: ben. beckman@unl.edu

KEARNEY – After serving as interim dean since August 2025, Laurel native Megan Adkins has been named dean of Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

“Megan brings significant experience in graduate education, online learning and academic innovation,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Julie Shaffer. “Graduate education and online learning are important components of UNK’s mission, and her familiarity with the division and understanding of its priorities will help us continue expanding opportunities for students.”

A UNK faculty member since 2008, Adkins previously served as associate dean of Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation. In those leadership roles, she has overseen graduate education, online learning and academic innovation initiatives serving more than 1,800 graduate students, approximately 3,300 online students and more than 5,000 non-credit learners annually.

Under her leadership, UNK expanded graduate and online offerings, developed workforce-aligned credentials and strengthened academic innovation initiatives focused on student success and workforce needs. She has also served on multiple University of Nebraska systemwide committees related to graduate education, online learning and artificial intelligence.

“I’m honored to serve in this role and contribute to UNK and the NU System by advancing programs that support graduate student success and expand opportunities in online education,” Adkins said. “As graduate and online education continue to evolve, we have an opportunity to use technology thoughtfully to expand access, strengthen learning and prepare students with the skills they need for the workforce of the future.”

Adkins, the daughter of Joan and the late Rick Adkins, earned a bachelor’s degree in K-12 health and physical education and community health from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a master’s degree in physical education with an emphasis in special populations from UNK and a doctorate in teacher education and instructional technology from UNL.

Before joining UNK, Adkins taught in public schools for six years.

She also serves as a professor of health and physical education and is active in professional organizations, university service and scholarly activities. Her research interests include pedagogy, teacher preparation, XR technology, online educational practices and STEM education.

As dean, Adkins will continue overseeing graduate studies, online education and academic innovation initiatives. UNK offers more than 30 graduate programs encompassing over 50 areas of study, along with more than 20 fully online degree programs.

CONCORD — The Dixon County Fair is set to return July 8-12, bringing five days of exhibits, livestock shows, entertainment and family-friendly activities to the fairgrounds near Concord.

Fair board members are looking forward to welcoming exhibitors, families and visitors from across the region for what promises to be an eventful fair week.

One of the biggest changes fairgoers will notice this year is the completion of a new exhibit building. The facility will serve as the home for both 4-H and Open Class exhibits while also housing the fair office and meeting room. The new building is expected to provide additional space and a more modern setting for exhibitors to showcase their work and accomplishments.

“We are excited to welcome exhibitors, participants and visitors to experience this wonderful new addition to the Dixon County Fairgrounds as we celebrate another great year at the fair,” fair board associate member Anita Eckert said.

Fair organizers are also expanding the lineup of activities available throughout the week. Along with popular inflatable attractions, visitors will find laser tag, a climbing activity, lumberjack-themed attractions and additional games designed to appeal to all ages.

The fair continues to emphasize its small-town atmosphere while providing entertainment and opportunities for community members to gather and celebrate local agriculture and achievement.

“The Dixon County Fair, located adjacent to the Village of Concord, Nebraska, is proud to offer a welcoming small-town atmosphere where families can enjoy quality entertainment in a safe and friendly environment,” Eckert said. “Whether you’re visiting for the exhibits, livestock shows, grandstand events or family activities, the fair is a place where lasting memories are made and community spirit shines.”

Several additional attractions are planned for this year’s event. Organizers are bringing back the Bull Ride after weather forced its cancellation last year. The fair will also debut Ag Olympics, a new competition expected to provide entertainment for participants and spectators alike.

Fairgoers may also have noticed pallets appearing around the fairgrounds in recent weeks. Organizers are keeping details under wraps for now.

“Many people have been asking about the pallets that have appeared around the fairgrounds,” Eckert said. “While we can’t reveal all the details just yet, we can say that something exciting is in the works. You’ll have to come to the fair to discover the secret for yourself!”

In recognition of the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday celebration, the fair is offering a $25 cash award for the most patriotic exhibit. Organizers encourage exhibitors of all ages to participate and showcase their creativity and patriotic spirit.

As preparations continue, fair board members expressed gratitude for the volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors and supporters who help make the annual event possible.

“The entire Fair Board is excited to welcome everyone to this year’s fair and to create another memorable experience for our community,” Eckert said. “We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to the many volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors and supporters who help make the Dixon County Fair possible. Your dedication, hard work and commitment are the foundation of our success, and we thank you in advance for all you do to support the fair and our community. We look forward to seeing everyone at the fairgrounds for another outstanding Dixon County Fair.”

Kennedy Hall of Coleridge received a Skill Point Certificate in nurse assisting, while Faith Galvin of Laurel earned a Skill Point Certificate in restaurant service during the conference, held June 1-5.

The certificates are awarded to SkillsUSA Championships competitors who meet a predetermined score in their respective events.

The recognition is intended to demonstrate career readiness and may be included in students’ employment portfolios.

Hall and Galvin qualified for the national competition after winning at the state level.

More than 7,000 students competed in the 2026 SkillsUSA Championships, which featured 115 career and leadership competitions for middle school, high school and postsecondary students.

The championships featured a wide range of events, including fields such as robotics, automotive technology, drafting, criminal justice, aviation maintenance, public speaking and other skilled trades.

The conference brought together student competitors, instructors and industry representatives from across the country.

More than 2,000 industry judges and technical committee members helped to evaluate the participants based on well established workplace and industry standards.

The next SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference is scheduled for June 21-25, 2027, in Atlanta.

COLERIDGE — Congressman Doug Bereuter will be the Grand Marshall for the Coleridge Fourth of July Parade.

Senator Elroy Hefner of Coleridge and several other Northeast Nebraska senators will also be riding in the parade. The theme for the parade is “Take Part, Take Pride, Take Heart in America.” It will include categories of Children, Saddle Clubs, Antique Cars, Commercial, Organizations and Challenge of the Towns with prizes awarded.

Following the parade a Coleridge Saddle Club Play Day will be held at the Horse Arena at the park with relay races and other events.

The 4th will include a Demolition Derby and the second annual Mud Run. On Sunday and Monday, July 5 and 6 a professional Rodeo will be sponsored by the Coleridge Saddle Club at the Coleridge Park.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — Neil Goodsell, former Belden man, has been inducted into Bowling Hall of Fame in the Bloomington Bowling Association in Bloomington, Ill.

Neil started bowling in the Bloomington Bowling Association in 1962.

He has carried a high average of 205, bowled a 767 series and a 299 game.

He won the actual title of the City Tournament for singles in 1978 and 1979 and won the all events title in 1979. He cashed in the A.B.C. national tournament in Cincinnati with a 678 singles and 1867 all events score.

In 1981 Neil won the Diamond Medal Singles at Circle Lanes. In addition to the above accomplishments, Neil has sponsored and bowled on the Country Companies team in the Greater Bloomington League. His team has won the league several times and cashed in the City Tournament this year. He also coached in the junior bowling program for over ten years.

Neil is the son of Vernon and Lola Goodsell of Belden.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — Scott Thompson, of Laurel, and Dave Diediker, of Wayne, formerly of Laurel, won the Wayne Country Club two-day golf tournament. Dave and Scott shot 18 hole net scores of 55 and 54 for a two-day score of 109.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — Amy Adkins has been selected as one of fifty students to attend the President’s School of Humanities at Augustana College for a week’s program in July. The school is designed for young people who have demonstrated a high degree of interest in the humanities areas of creative writing, investigative journalism, career exploration and computer writing.

Amy, representing Laurel-Concord School in the competition, was recommended for the school by teachers and the principal, Mr. Tom Haller. More than 120 students were recommended for the Humanities School with 50 students selected to attend. A grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation provides the scholarships for the students to attend the President’s School.

Amy, the daughter of Rick and Joan Adkins, is a 4.0 honor roll student, active in sports and music, is a member of the Student Council and serves as president of her class.

Students will live in supervised Augustana dormitories, eat in the college cafeteria and receive instruction from specially chosen teachers.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — The Pee Wee “black” team edged the visiting Coleridge Pee Wees 5-2 on June 25. The Pee Wees played a very tough defensive game against a good Coleridge team.

Making some great plays with their gloves were Jim Dickey and Mark Johnson. Tony Manganaro did the job with the bat going two for two with three RBI. Manganaro’s three RBI came on a bases loaded double in the third which turned out to be the winning margin. The victory moved the team’s record to 4-0.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — It was the big inning which haunted the Ponies once again in their June 24 game with Wisner.

Wisner scored seven times in the top of the fifth, aided by five Laurel errors, to top the Ponies 15-3.

The game was a good learning experience for Laurel which has only four players with previous Pony playing time. The Ponies had a good day at the plate, rapping out six hits.

Chad Van Cleave tripled and drove in a run with a sacrifice fly. Justin Swanson reached base twice with a single and a walk, and also finished up the game in relief.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — Those attending the annual A. A. Smith family reunion at the Laurel Senior Citizen Center on June 29 were Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Smith of Waterman, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Jim Zeigenbein of Ashland, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Scheef, Katie, Julie and Andy of Columbus, Mr. and Mrs.

Ken Bush, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Frank, Michael, Jon and Sara Krainch, Ed Albracht and Patricia Mergens all of Omaha, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Lentz, Brian and Mark of Wayne, Mr. and Mrs. Don Bruning of Hartington, Mr. and Mrs. Cyril Smith of Belden, Mrs. Luella Smith, Mrs. Lester Smith, Mrs. Mary Iler, Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Smith, Andy, Lance, Evan and Melissa, Mr. and Mrs. Rollie Granquist and Tina, Mr. and Mrs. Gary Newton, Amy, Angie and Katie all of Laurel. Mr. and Mrs. Don Boling of Belden joined them in the afternoon.

July 2, 1986

LAUREL — Descendants of the John Carlson family gathered at the Laurel Legion Hall Sunday, June 29, for the 45th family reunion. Thirtyfive family members were in attendance from Arizona, Rochester, Md., Millard, Omaha, Bellevue, Wayne, Lynch, Verdel and Laurel.

July 2, 1986

HARTINGTON — The County Board Monday approved by a two-toone vote a motion to grant fulltime employees of the road department a 10% pay increase. Commissioners Joe Keiter and Leonard Kuehn approved the motion and Marlen Kraemer voted against it.

Keiter said he voted for the increase since road department employees have not been granted a raise in three years. He said a 15% increase was requested by department employees.

“They asked for 15% but we couldn’t go that much,” Kuehn said, “times are tough and everything they buy has gone up.”

Keiter and Kuehn also said they felt the increase was justified since other county workers had been granted a 5% increase in 1985 and a 7% increase in 1984.

Kraemer said he feels the county may have to consider cuts in services in order to meet the payroll, which totaled $304,454 last year.

“My feeling is with the budget crunch going on, the road department is going to be hit from all angles,” Kraemer said. “Deanna Anderson (county assessor) informed us we’re going to lose $20-$22 million in valuation. Services will have to be cut because the funds just aren’t there.”

The three agreed how the budget fares is dependent on the weather.

“This winter when we are looking at opening roads we’re going to have to look at overtime,” Kraemer said.

“That may be one place where we’ll have to cut services. There’s only so much money to go around.”

The drive, hosted by the Village of Coleridge in partnership with LifeServe Blood Center, comes at a time when blood donations often decline due to summer travel and vacations, even as hospitals continue to rely on a steady supply of blood products for patients.

According to LifeServe, maintaining adequate blood inventories can be especially challenging during the summer months. The organization encourages eligible donors to give regularly to help meet the ongoing need for blood used in emergency care, surgeries, cancer treatments and other medical procedures.

LifeServe estimates that fewer than 3% of the population donates blood, making each donation an important contribution to the region’s healthcare system.

The organization also recognized community members for reaching blood donation milestones: Chad Frerichs, 4-gallon donor Lisa Papenhausen, 4-gallon donor Linda Fox, 6-gallon donor LifeServe thanked the Village of Coleridge for hosting the drive and supporting local blood donation efforts.

The blood center encourages eligible residents to consider donating throughout the year to help ensure blood is available whenever patients need it.

The next Coleridge Community Blood Drive will be Wednesday, Aug. 26 from 12-3:30 p.m. at the Community Center.