Latest articles - Nemaha Valley Observer

Village of Cook Declares Disaster after July 3, 2026 Storm

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:14 -0500

On Friday July 3, 2026, at approximately 9:40 PM the Village of Cook was impacted by a severe warned thunderstorm that produced an isolated downburst with estimated wind speeds of approximately 80 mph. The storm caused damage to numerous trees across the community that caused damage to several buildings and homes. After initial damage assessments were conducted by Village Board members, Cook Rural Fire Department, Cook Rescue, Village Utilities, and Johnson and Pawnee County Emergency Management Agency it was determined out of an abundance of caution that the Village of Cook Village Board would submit a state of emergency declaration to the State of Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

Residents are encouraged to submit any damages on the Johnson and Pawnee Counties Emergency Management Agency damage assessment tool available online at https:// ne-johnson.orioncentral.com/ SelfReporter.

The tree dump will be open to Village of Cook residents for any tree debris created by the storm. The Village Board does remind all residents to please only put tree branches in the dump; no trash or other debris is allowed.

THE AUBURN EAGLES CLUB

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:12 -0500

the 3rd District

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:06 -0500

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness

As we celebrate Independence Day, our nation stands on the doorstep of an extraordinary milestone. On July 4, 2026, Americans will mark 250 years since the birth of the United States—the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known.

250 years ago, our Founders pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to establish a nation built on the timeless principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. They envisioned a country where people could speak freely, worship according to their conscience, and chart their own future without the heavy hand of government standing in their way. A quarter of a millennium later, those principles still endure.

No matter your background, your faith, your occupation, or your political beliefs, America remains a place where hard work, determination, and personal responsibility can open doors that would remain closed almost anywhere else in the world. The American Dream is not a guarantee of success, but it is the promise that opportunity exists for those willing to pursue it.

I often wonder what our Founders would think if they could see our nation today. While I am confident Benjamin Franklin would have never imagined the technologies that power our homes, connect our communities, or send Americans into space, I believe our Founders would recognize something even more important: a nation that, despite its imperfections, has continued striving to become stronger, freer, and more prosperous with each passing generation.

Our history has never been without challenges. We have faced war, division, hardship, and moments that tested the very foundation of our republic. Yet generation after generation, Americans have answered those challenges with courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief that tomorrow will be better than today. This enduring spirit is what has carried our nation through 250 remarkable years.

This great experiment has never been easy, but it has always been worth protecting.

In today’s world, it is easy to become consumed by the headlines focused on disagreements and frustrations. But, this Independence Day, I encourage every Nebraskan to take a moment to reflect on the blessings we often take for granted: the freedom to build a life of your own choosing, to raise a family, to start a business, to worship freely, to speak your mind, and to pursue your own version of the American Dream.

That is what makes America exceptional.

In Congress, I remain committed to advancing policies that protect our individual liberties, strengthen opportunities for working families, and preserve the freedoms that have made this nation a beacon of hope for generations.

This weekend, as children race to collect candy at hometown parades, friends gather around backyard barbecues, and families look to the skies as fireworks light up the night, I hope you will join me in taking a moment to remember those who came before us—the men and women whose courage and sacrifice made this remarkable nation possible.

It is the honor of a lifetime to serve Nebraska’s Third District and to play a small part in preserving this extraordinary American experiment—a responsibility I will never take for granted.

Happy Independence Day, God bless Nebraska, and God bless the United States of America.

Auburn Airstream Juniors End Week with 10-0 Shutout of Adams

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500

Hunter Bolin pitched all five innings of Auburn’s shutout victory over Adams on Sunday, July 5, striking out six batters and allowing only two hits to earn the win at the mound.

Auburn came out hot offensively, scoring six runs in the first inning with two-RBI singles from both Landry Allen and Griffen Sikora. Auburn added a few extra runs in the third and fourth innings, leading to the final score of 10-0.

The shutout over Adams rounded out a week that started with a pair of losses to Wahoo and Hickman. Auburn put up two runs in the first inning against Wahoo on Tuesday, but went empty offensively in the final six innings, surrendering their lead and ultimately the game to Wahoo by a score of 9-2.

The AA Juniors were out-hit 10-4 on Wednesday, leading to a 12-4 loss to Hickman in five innings. Three pitchers tried their best to stop the Hickman hitting, but Auburn would end the game without a single strikeout as they couldn’t keep pace.

With the 1-2 record on the week, the AA Juniors drop to 11-7 on the year.

Auburn Marks Our Nation’s 250th Birthday

rebecca@anewspaper.net (Rebecca Johnson) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Auburn marked America’s 250th anniversary with a three-day celebration Friday through Sunday, drawing residents out for everything from pickleball and water fights to a Fourth of July program built around readings of the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address.
Friday’s activities included pickleball, water fights with the Auburn Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD), photo booths, a sidewalk chalk contest and scavenger hunts, capped by a Summer Sounds concert in the park featuring the Chicago Invasion.
Saturday centered on the Fourth of July program, which featured the historical readings, musical performances and a full day of community celebration that ran into a fireworks display at dusk.
Billy Hayes addressed the crowd with reflections on the nation’s founding before reading portions of the Declaration of Independence, tracing its origins from the Second Continental Congress’s 1776 decision to form a drafting committee through Thomas Jefferson’s role as its principal author.
“I memorized this for my high school English class here at Auburn with Carrie Allen, which prompted her to ask me to perform it at the Brownville Freedom Festival when it started many years ago,” Hayes said. He added that he’s recited it every year for the past two decades, with a few exceptions when he was attending events in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Hayes walked through the timeline of the Declaration’s adoption — from Congress’s vote to approve independence on July 2, 1776, to the document’s formal adoption two days later — and noted that Jefferson and John Adams, despite differing views on government, remained close friends until their deaths on the same day, July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the Declaration was adopted.
He returned to the podium later in the program to recite the Gettysburg Address, drawing a connection between Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 dedication of the Gettysburg battlefield cemetery and the founding principles laid out nearly a century earlier in the Declaration.
The Southeast Nebraska Community Band (SNCB) performed patriotic selections throughout the program, with vocals by Alayna Gerdes of Johnson-Brock and SNCB member Katie Umland, who joins Auburn as its vocal music instructor this year, along with her brother, Adam Umland. Laura Osborne, chair of the Auburn 250 celebration, closed out the music with a rendition of “God Bless the U.S.A.”
Osborne also recognized active-duty service members and veterans in attendance, who were presented with challenge coins by members of American Legion Post 23 Auxiliary.
That evening, dunk tanks, inflatables, yard games and a cookout hosted by the AVFD led into the fireworks display at dusk, closing out Saturday’s celebration.

All Things Nebraska

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

‘Grumpy’ Ticket Holder Decries Big Money in College Sports

Paul Hammel, retired senior reporter for Nebraska Examiner For nearly 30 years, I’ve been a season ticket holder for Nebraska volleyball matches.

I also used to cover the sport. I was around when then-Coach Terry Pettit was begging football fans to attend volleyball matches after watching a football game.

Way back in the day (years before I caught the volleyball bug) loyal fans used to set up their own folding chairs so they could watch a match.

Fast forward to today. Home volleyball matches in Lincoln have been sold out for years, making it harder for new fans to attend matches despite the move to the Devaney Center, which doubled the tickets available.

Nebraska’s volleyball program has won five national championships, and is regularly in the top five teams in the country. Team members are celebrities and now, internet darlings. Little girls in the state grow up dreaming to be Huskers.

And, oh yeah, don’t forget the incredible Memorial Stadium match in 2023 when 92,000 eager fans packed the football venue. It set a record for the most fans to attend a women’s sporting contest.

To say that the success of women’s volleyball has been incredible is almost an understatement. And this fall, the Huskers will again be one of the favorites to win it all.

But now, loyal fans like me are being asked to step aside so people who have more money, and give more money to the university, can choose the best seats in the house – the ones where fans like me used to sit.

It’s called “reseating” and the NU athletic department describes it as an attempt to “embrace the evolution of intercollegiate athletics and find ways to preserve our financial model.”

In plain English: “college sports is a big money enterprise, and we need to cater to the people who give the most money.”

The big donors, mostly those giving to football and other sports, have been allowed to pick season tickets (up to six each) since early June. I get to wait until July 13, and can only choose up to four.

This is despite being a regular contributor to the athletic department, faithfully giving the suggested contributions to keep our two seats.

Our seats were great. We felt like we were part of the match, and responded loudly. Now, we’re looking at the nose-bleed sections, in the darkened, upper reaches of the arena, far from the action.

Some friends who used to share our seats have backed out, saying it’s not worth it. Others I know gave up when the reseating was announced last year.

On some level I understand what’s going on. College athletics has become a big-money enterprise, and now that athletes are being paid, big money needs to be raised.

But it stinks that loyal fans, including those who used to set up their own chairs for matches (you know, the ones who “all stick together, in all kinds of weather”) are being shoved aside.

I complained about this so much that the NU athletic director (to his credit) called me to talk me off the ledge.

He calmly explained that since players can now be paid, and can earn extra money through “name, image and likeness” deals with companies, Nebraska needs more money to compete.

I appreciate that the university is getting creative, and using assets like Memorial Stadium to earn extra money by staging concerts, “Banana Ball” and even some goofy golf game inside Memorial Stadium.

Reseating is now planned for football, basketball and softball, so it’s not just faithful volleyball fans being impacted. I felt especially bad for softball season ticket holders, who sat through some pretty chilly and wet early games this year, but when it came to the NCAA tournament, had to move to the bleachers so bigger donors could sit in the front row.

When I write stuff like this, part of me is whispering, “boy, you’re getting old and grumpy – give it a rest.”

But the rest of me is thinking this is just sad – sad that, in one more place, it’s all about money.

Maybe they should change the words in the fight song.

— I’m also sad about the passing of Paul Fell, a masterful cartoonist, who I was honored to have collaborated with every week in this corner of the paper. What a talented guy, always upbeat and full of wit. Draw well in that art studio in the sky my friend.

Dunekacke Leads FNBJ Seniors to 14-1 Win over Adams

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

The First National Bank of Johnson Seniors split their two games this past week, starting with a 2-1 loss to Hickman on Thursday, July 2 before blowing past Adams by a score of 14-1.

Ty Dunekacke pitched all five innings against Adams on Sunday, July 5, striking out five batters and allowing just three hits and one run. Adams’s only run scored put them ahead of Auburn entering the third inning, but a lead-off single by Logan Sierks led to the FNBJ Seniors going in front 3-1.

Auburn put the game out of reach with 11 runs in the top of the fifth inning to increase their lead to 14-1. Jackson Warner, Westyn Amthor, and Aydan Smith recorded two RBI a piece in the win.

Hits weren’t as easy to come by in the earlier game against Hickman, as Gavin Bauer scored the team’s lone run on a solo-homer. Auburn led 1-0 up until the sixth inning, but Hickman scored twice in the final two innings to steal the game by a score of 2-1.

The FNBJ Seniors move to 11-6 on the season.

CLAYTON BROWN halts his run at second after a good hit into the outfield

JACKSON WARNER goes deep to catch a long hit during the Hickman game July 2.

Sixth Inning Rally Leads to Comeback Win over Fairbury for Tecumseh/Johnson Legion Team

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

The Post 2/330 Seniors baseball team defeated Nehawka and Fairbury to go 2-0 on the week and improve their overall record to 13-4-1.

On Tuesday, the team put up 18 runs on 15 hits to knockout Nehawka by a score of 18-4. AJ Rautenbach recorded four hits and six RBI to lead the offense to their big scoring day. Tate Hawley and Kellen Dorn had three RBI apiece while Casen Dalinghaus and Luke Fulton each added two RBI of their own.

The team struggled to put runs on the board against Fairbury on Thursday, July 2, falling into a two-run deficit with just two innings to play. Tecumseh/ Johnson took advantage of some Fairbury mistakes to flip the game with three runs in the bottom of the sixth.

Hawley struck out two batters in the bottom of the seventh to earn the save as the boys came back to defeat Fairbury 3-2 for a flawless week.

WYATT FULTON hits the ball but was tagged out at first base in a Legion baseball game played against Fairbury on Tecumseh’s home field on July 2.

CASEN DAHLINGHAUS was the starting pitcher for the Tecumseh Legion Seniors as they faced the Fairbury Legion Seniors in Tecumseh on July 2.

AJ RAUTENBACH runs home to score Tecumseh’s first run in the top of the sixth inning against Fairbury on July 2. Tecumseh went on to pull out the win 3-2.

Producers Must Update Farm Operating Plans by Sept. 15

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:01:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is expanding payment limitation and payment eligibility provisions that affect program payments including allowing for the equitable treatment of business entities.
Additionally, producers will benefit from an increased payment limitation for certain programs, and a broader definition of farming income that will result in more exceptions to income limitations.
Producers should contact their local FSA county office to obtain additional information or to update their farm operating plan by the Tuesday, Sept. 15 deadline for the 2026 program year.
The Johnson County office is at 448 N. 12th St., Suite B, Tecumseh, 402-335-3377. The Nemaha County office is at 918 26th St., Suite A, Auburn, 402-274-4987.
“The 2026 program year will be a monumental change for farmers and ranchers who can now structure their farm entities to benefit from the legal protections of certain business structures without limiting their access to the farm safety net. Producers have had to make difficult decisions for far too long when it comes to structuring their operations. The administration is proud to give farmers and ranchers more options to build and protect their legacy for generations to come while receiving full support from USDA,” said Bill Beam, FSA administrator.
These changes were outlined in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act which provides a large investment in American agriculture by improving eligibility provisions, the farm safety net, disaster assistance and price support programs. USDA previously announced that this fall, producers will benefit from increased reference prices for major commodities.
Payment Eligibility
Starting with the 2026 crop year, for payment eligibility purposes, FSA will treat applicable limited liability companies (LLCs) and S-Corporations (S-Corps), and other similar entities, as “pass through entities.” Each member of the qualified pass-through entity who meets actively engaged in farming criteria will help qualify the entity for expanded payments.
Previously, farm operations that were structured as an LLC or an S-Corp were limited to a single payment limitation, which varies by program. Now, partnerships, S-Corps, qualifying LLCs, and joint ventures or general partnerships will be treated the same.
For program year 2026 only, farm operations that are structured as LLCs or S-Corps or one of the new qualified pass-through entities must file updated farm operating plans with FSA for program year 2026 by Sept. 15. After program year 2026, FSA will continue to use June 1 as the date for determining ownership interest in an entity. Producers who have crop insurance or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program coverage should contact their crop insurance agent or local FSA office before restructuring their farm operation to ensure appropriate timing for restructuring without impacting current insurance coverage.
Members of qualified pass-through entities must provide contributions and be engaged in farming for the entity to be considered actively engaged in farming.
An additional change allows members of all entity types to receive compensation for labor and management contributions and use the same contribution to qualify as “actively engaged in farming.” This update provides consistent treatment of member contributions across all entity types.
Payment Limitation and Attribution
Payment limitation changes include an increased payment limit for the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program. Starting with crop year 2025, the ARC and PLC payment limit will increase from $125,000 to $155,000. This payment limit will be adjusted going forward annually based on inflation.
Payment limitations are the maximum amount that a person or legal entity can receive for any crop year, directly or indirectly, through certain USDA programs. The same maximum payment limitation that applied to joint ventures and general partnerships will apply to qualified pass-through entities.
The policy change to payment limitation calculations takes effect beginning with program year 2026 for all qualified pass-through entities.
Average Adjusted Gross Income
The Working Families Tax Cuts Act broadened the definition of farming income to be more reflective of modern agricultural business practices. As a result, diversified producers will not be penalized under USDA’s requirements for average adjusted gross income (AGI).
Producers are exempt from the $900,000 adjusted gross income (AGI) cap for conservation and disaster programs if at least 75 percent of their average gross income is from farming, ranching or silviculture, which now includes agritourism, direct-to-consumer sales and certain equipment sales.
Additionally, qualified pass-through entities are not required to certify compliance with the average AGI limitation at the entity level. However, members individually must meet average AGI requirements, which is the same requirement for joint operations.

Three Sisters Celebrate 20 Years of Quilting Surprises

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:59:00 -0500

“It is always a surprise to see how different or how alike the quilts are,” said Delta Budt, who with her sisters, Linda Hug and Donna Budt, celebrated the 20th anniversary of their Quilt Display at the Johnson Legion Hall on Saturday, June 27, with family and friends in attendance. The Quilting Sisters open house had over 80 quilts on display. Each of the three Quilting Sisters created over 20 quilts. Previous quilt reveals have taken place in Montana, Yellowstone National Park and Gordon and Delta Budt's home near Cook.
The quilting project started in 2006 when the three sisters, Linda of Auburn, Delta of Cook and Donna of Lincoln, were shopping together in a quilt shop. Linda selected a pattern for a quilt and suggested that all three of them should make a quilt from that same pattern. The three sisters agreed and the quilting venture began.
Although all three sisters were skilled seamstresses, making their own clothing for their family and themselves, quilting was something new. Every year since, one of the three sisters is privileged with choosing the quilt pattern for the following year's quilt reveal. Delta said it takes about three months to complete one quilt.
The three sisters laid down some ground rules for their quilting projects. 1) Each sister selects her own fabric for the quilt. 2) The sisters cannot show each other the quilts they are making. 3) The sisters cannot discuss the colors of their quilts. The quilt has to be done within the year. When the sisters are all together, a quilt reveal is held, usually during the month of July, with family members in attendance.
“We are allowed to call each other to discuss our progress, frustrations, etc., but we must never tell details about the quilt!” said Delta.
The first year, the sisters used the same pattern to create their own table runners. Since then the three sisters have made a variety of quilts for their own family members to cherish in addition to quilting coasters, potholders or lap robes and other items to give to each other as gifts during the annual quilt reveal.
The Quilting Sisters like to support independently owned quilts shops in Nebraska. The sisters are also members of the Nebraska Heritage Quilting Guild.
Delta enjoys rotating the quilts she's made throughout her home in recognition of the seasons of the year. Donna likes displaying her quilts as wall-hangings in her home.
“It's fun when you see the expressions of awe on the faces of your family members and friends and they say to you, “Wow! How did you do that?”
The use of different colors and fabric makes each quilt unique, even though the same pattern is used by all three sisters. All three sisters agreed that the Double Shot Star pattern was the most challenging to quilt so far.
The sisters have seen some changes in quilting since they started 20 years ago. “The colors are brighter and there are more choices in fabrics,” said Delta.
“The techniques are easier,” said Linda.
“Now a person just has to use a ruler,” Delta added.
The sisters enjoy going on quilting retreats to learn new techniques and trends in quilt-making.
This year’s quilt reveal included giving two Quilts of Valor to family members. Delta was honored to complete a Quilt of Valor for her son, Jon Budt, as a member of the Blue Star Mothers, Chapter #1 of Nebraska City. “It gives you a different feeling knowing you're sewing a quilt for a special family member in honor of their military service,” said Delta.
Linda said she wanted to make a Quilt of Valor for her brother-in-law Clarence (Butch) Hug because she felt he deserved one to recognize his military service.

Auburn Backpack Program Conferred $1,000 From Farmers Cooperative

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:57:00 -0500

FARMERS COOPERATIVE awards $1,000 to the Auburn Backpack program as part of the organization’s hunger grants. Accepting are, from left, Nancy Hawley, John Crawley, Ralph Krause, Jason Lambert and Ellen Bohlken. Hawley is treasurer of the local committee, Krause is chair and Bohlken is a member. Crawley is grain originator and Lambert location manager with Farmers Cooperative. Farmers Cooperative representatives noted the impact the Auburn committee has on addressing food insecurity is invaluable. The Auburn Backpack program will be in its 15th year during the 2026-2027 school year.
Nemaha Valley Observer photo by David Swanson

Auburn Community Weighs In on $300k Downtown Revitalization Fund Usage

rebecca@anewspaper.net (Rebecca Johnson) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:55:00 -0500

Business owners, building owners and residents gathered Monday, June 29 to offer public input on how the city of Auburn should spend $300,000 in tax increment financing (TIF) set aside for downtown revitalization (DTR).
Katy Billings, chairperson of the Auburn Community Redevelopment Authority (CRA), led the meeting and told attendees the process works as follows: the city determines what it wants to do, brings a proposal to the CRA, and the two parties enter a redevelopment contract at a set dollar amount. Any costs beyond that amount are the city’s responsibility.
Billings explained that funds come from the CRA approved redevelopment plan, which earmarked up to $300,000 for a city-backed project. This means the city, not an individual or developer, would lead the effort. Eligible uses listed in the plan include beautification, streetscaping, landscaping and lighting.
Holiday lighting proposal dominates discussion
Much of the discussion centered on a proposal to install commercial-grade holiday lighting along downtown building rooflines along the Highway 136 and 75 corridor. This concept was previously brought to city council but tabled at an April 13 meeting pending more details. Attendees were broadly supportive, though several building owners raised concerns about Auburn’s historic limestone construction and whether attachments could damage brittle or deteriorating stone. The contractor, Alex Eckhoff of Envision Landscapes said those issues are addressable building by building and that he would not proceed anywhere he lacked confidence in the attachment point.
A installation estimate of $72,000 was cited, based on approximately 5,000 linear feet of downtown roofline. Annual service would run about $1,300. It was reported by the Chamber that the Board of Public Works communicated via email saying the lighting cannot connect to streetlight infrastructure and must draw power from existing buildings. Attendees said they generally want more complete cost and participation information before a formal proposal goes to the city council again.
Attendees pitch broader vision
Attendees and Auburn Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Leslie Clark suggested the $300,000 could support a broader package of improvements, including a park-based immersive light display, programmable color-changing lighting for seasonal use, coordinated flower planters, historic plaques or QR codes on building exteriors, a cohesive signage program, small gathering spaces, and wayfinding signage connecting downtown to the Courthouse Avenue corridor. Billings said any of those examples would qualify under the city-backed project category in the redevelopment plan.
Clark said the chamber’s preference is for enhancements that draw people into the downtown corridor. She referenced Fredericksburg, Texas, where automated lights and music draw shoppers downtown each evening.
DTR process draws scrutiny from attendee
One attendee raised questions about the separate Downtown Revitalization (DTR) grant program, funded through Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and administered via the Southeast Nebraska Development District (SENDD). Resident, Dawna Hall said her understanding is that the local DTR committee functions as a gatekeeper for grant applications.
Billings, with confirmation from Mayor Chris Erickson, noted that DTR meetings are not subject to the Open Meetings Act and are not publicly noticed, but that the public would not be turned away. She invited anyone with questions to contact a DTR committee member directly, herself included.
CRA role clarified
Billings clarified that the CRA does not originate projects but approves and funds them once a city-backed entity brings a complete proposal. A city-aligned group such as the DTR committee would need to present an organized plan, authorized by the city council, before a redevelopment contract could be drawn up.
No formal proposal for these funds has been submitted. The June 29 session was an early step toward developing one.

Deer Creek Sodbusters Hosts 44th Annual Antique Tractor & Machinery Show

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:54:00 -0500

Deer Creek Sodbusters, Inc. will host its 44th Annual Antique Tractor and Machinery Show and Plowing Bee on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the Deer Creek Showgrounds, located at 72927 610 Ave, 4½ miles south of Sterling or 2½ miles north of Highway 136 on 610 Ave (Sterling Road). The event will be held rain or shine.
This long‑standing Southeast Nebraska tradition offers a full day of family‑friendly activities celebrating the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Gates open at 8:00 a.m., beginning with a flag‑raising ceremony performed by American Legion Post 140 of Sterling, who will also lead the afternoon parade at 1 p.m.
Immediately following the flag ceremony, a nondenominational outdoor church service will begin at approximately 8:15 a.m., and all are welcome.
At 11:30 a.m., guest speaker Jody Lamp will present “A History of Nebraska Agriculture – A Life Worth Living,” a Humanities Nebraska Speakers Bureau program. Lamp’s presentation highlights Nebraska’s agricultural legacy through stories of the people, innovations, and events that shaped the state’s identity as both The Beef State and The Cornhusker State.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy hands‑on demonstrations of historic farming equipment, including:
Threshing, corn shelling, corn binding, silage chopping, stationary baler, small grain binding, and horse‑drawn farming equipment. Morning demonstrations run from 9:30 a.m. to noon, with additional sessions from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Plowing demonstrations will follow the parade in the afternoon. In the event of rain or muddy field conditions, plowing demonstrations will be postponed to Sunday, August 30 at 2:00 p.m.
The grounds will also feature antique tractors, hit‑and‑miss engines, antique automobiles and trucks, arts and crafts, a flea market, and a souvenir stand. Concessions will be available all day, and shaded seating areas offer a comfortable place to relax.
Families will find plenty to enjoy, including a children’s playground, barnyard area, and the popular Straw Pile Scavenger Hunt for ages two through pre‑teen. The hunt begins at approximately 1:45 p.m., immediately after the parade.
The Deer Creek Sodbusters’ sawmill will operate throughout the day, demonstrating traditional lumber‑cutting techniques. A blacksmithing area will also be active.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the barn loft museum, featuring antique tools, household items, and small implements, as well as the Rusty Iron Museum, which showcases unique pieces of machinery no longer in operation but rich in historical value.
This year’s featured equipment includes Massey‑Harris tractors and D‑E‑F engines. The highlighted tractor for 2026 is a 1937 Massey‑Harris Challenger, owned by Bill Truscott of Sterling, Nebraska. Regardless of your favorite brand or color of tractor, the Deer Creek Sodbusters club would like to invite you to bring your antique tractors and machinery to the show.
Admission is $10 per person, with children under 12 admitted free. Proceeds support the nonprofit Deer Creek Sodbusters organization to help maintain and improve the showgrounds for future generations.
For details about the show, club history, museum exhibits, or other activities, visit www.deercreeksodbusters.org or follow the club on Facebook at facebook.com/deercreeksodbusters.

Golden Anniversary of Nemaha Valley Museum Scheduled July 19

news@anewpaper.net (David Swanson) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:43:00 -0500

A HIGHLIGHT of the Nemaha Valley Museum’s golden anniversary Sunday, July 19 will be a Humanities Nebraska program. It will be presented by Dan Holtz and Gary Zalud, retired college professors.

The Nemaha Valley Museum volunteers will celebrate 50 years Sunday, July 19 with an open house and reception from 1 to 4 p.m.
There will be a short “welcome” about 1:50 p.m. At 2 p.m., Dan Holtz and Gary Zalud will present All Original, All Nebraska, a Humanities Nebraska program.
Around the museum, there will be additional informational displays and photos of the last half century. Refreshments will be served all afternoon.
All Original, All Nebraska
Nebraska has many unsung heroes--persons who have enriched the Cornhusker State’s story--yet many Nebraskans know little about them.
Caroline Joy French Morton, the wife of J. Sterling Morton, was a driving force behind her husband’s success. Susan LaFlesche Picotte, an Omaha Indian, was the first Native American medical doctor in the United States. Robert Ball Anderson, a Union Civil War veteran, was an escaped slave who had the largest land-holding of any African-American in our state’s early days. Evelyn Sharp, an Ord native, was a legendary flight instructor during World War II. And roughly 55,000 volunteers from 125 communities came together to greet more than six million service persons at the North Platte Canteen during World War II from Christmas Day 1941 until April 1, 1946.
Performing as the duo Flatwater Reunion and playing a variety of acoustic instruments, Holtz and Zalud celebrate these individuals and many more through historical narrative and song.
Holtz, Peru State College emeritus professor of English, has presented his musical, historical, story-telling programs hundreds of times across Nebraska. Holtz’ performances have included the State Capitol, the Nebraska Chautauqua, Homestead National Historical Park, the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, Chimney Rock and Fort Robinson. He also appeared on the Millenium Stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., for Nebraska State Day. Along with Flatwater Reunion, Holtz released in 2023 a third album of his music, A Nebraska Tapestry.
He taught at Nebraska’s first college from 1987 to 2016. Holtz is also a past president of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Historical Society. He served on the Nebraska 150 Foundation, a statewide committee which planned Nebraska’s Sesquicentennial celebration/commemoration.
Since 2023, Zalud, Holtz’s longtime friend has joined him in performing. Zalud is an emeritus professor of literacy education and longtime chair of curriculum and instruction at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion. Both Holtz and Zalud are recipients of prestigious awards from their respective state higher education systems.
All Original All Nebraska is among Holtz’ five Humanities Nebraska programs. The others are: From Bleeding Kansas to Old Virginny: Songs and Stories of the Civil War; Heroism on the Plains: Story Songs of Courage and Determination from Improbable People and Places; Marion Marsh Brown: A Continuing Legacy in Nebraska Writing; and Nebraska Through Song and Story.

Can Care-A-Van Takes Donations in Tecumseh

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:41:00 -0500

The KOLN Channel 10 Can Care-A-Van stopped in Tecumseh to assist with the collection of canned food items for local food pantries on Tuesday, June 23. A total of 1,333 pounds of canned goods were collected at the Tecumseh SENCA office. Members of the Southeast Nebraska Community Action staff at the Tecumseh office assist Carol Rieken, far right, as she drops off some canned goods. The SENCA staff and board of directors, from the left, are: Krystal Nickels, manager of the Tecumseh office, Kay Wissman, SENCA Community Services Director, Amy Tams, Mary Sands, Margaret Kroeze, and Cheryl Grove; and volunteer Lisa Bartels of the American National Bank.

Humboldt and Stella Mail Carrier Receives Award for 26 Years of Safe Driving and Service

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:08:00 -0500

Dwayne Feighner has worked for the postal service for over 30 years. He has worked in several offices including Auburn, Clarinda, IA, Plattsmouth, and Omaha offices. Dwayne’s favorite part of being a mailman is the good dogs he gets to see every day. Dwayne plans to stay in the Humboldt area until his retirement.
Dwayne and his family have been lifelong Auburn residents.

Spectators Tour Tecumseh Opera House on July 4

locals@anewspaper.net (Carol Sisco) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:03:00 -0500

The Tecumseh Opera House opened in the summer of 1880. It was the second performance hall built in the Tecumseh community. In 1874, William and John Bartels had built Bartels Hall, a wooden structure that later burned down.
The immigrant populations that settled on the prairie had a need for entertainment. More than 300 communities across Nebraska had opera houses in the 50-year period from Nebraska's statehood in 1867 to 1917, when movies became the new popular form of entertainment.
Even though performances rarely included operas, the term “opera house” was preferred over “theatre” as a more refined and respected form of the arts. Opera houses were the center of leisure activity and began to thrive once the town had a railroad depot to ensure traveling entertainers could make connections to their next booking.
The Tecumseh Opera House is typical of most Nebraska opera houses, which were built above commercial buildings. The two-story brick building on the west side of the square was designed by W.L. Dunlap, a local surveyor and architect, and built by W.R. Spicknell and W.H. Hassett with bricks manufactured in town by Spicknell and wood from the Hassett Lumber Company.
On the ground floor was the Delmonico restaurant and a barber shop advertising “a clean shave and good bath.” In later years, the ground floor business was a succession of pharmacists and drug stores. At one time, the Tecumseh Opera House was known to be the finest in the state outside of Lincoln.
Also known over the years as the Seaver Bros. Opera House, Smith Theatre, Hahn Opera House Spicknell and Goodman Opera House, Goodman and Canfield Opera House and Villars Hall, the Tecumseh Opera House hosted musical concerts, touring stock companies, minstrel shows, grand and comic opera, magic shows, lecturers, dances, home talent, school productions and countless community gatherings and fundraisers.
The Tecumseh Opera House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 as a significant building worthy of preservation. The original ceiling of molded white tin remains, along with a vintage advertising front curtain.
The Johnson County Historical Society became the owner of the Tecumseh Opera House as a wish of the Fankhauser family following the death of Densel Fankhauser in 2019 and his wife, Irene in 2024. Densel and Irene Fankhauser moved to Tecumseh in 1957 when he worked at the Nachtigall Drug Store. In 1969, Fankhauser perchased the Chief Drug Store and continued to preserve what remained of the Tecumseh Opera House above.

The Atlas F Missile and Tecumseh's Impact on the Cold War

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:32:00 -0500

Lt. Gen. (Nebr. Ret.) Roger P. Lempke, a Nebraska National Guard Adjutant General from 2000-2007 and a 1965 Graduate of Tecumseh High School, gave a presentation, “Atlas Missiles: Tecumseh and the Cold War”, at the Tecumseh Community Building on Saturday, July 4.
In July 1959, the United States Air Force announced that Johnson County would have an Atlas missile launch complex. Construction for this missile complex, known as Site 6, began in April 1960. On March 25, 1962, an Atlas F missile was lowered into the silo located about five miles north of Tecumseh.
What led to this moment in time? The launch of the German V-2 rocket and the Soviet Union beginning to demonstrate nuclear capability. In 1955, the birth of the Atlas Middle was listed as a top priority by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who pushed for the development of missiles in the United States. Due to the SPUTNIK launch in October 4, 1957, President Eisenhower wanted a triad of airplanes, missiles and submarines ready for an attack on the Soviet Union if necessary. Three other Atlas missile variants were designed before the Atlas F type was stored north of Tecumseh.
The Atlas F missile was 75 feet tall, 16 feet wide, and 10 feet in diameter. The missile weighed 260,000 pounds and consisted of one internal and two external engines. The fuel used in the missile was highly purified kerosene and liquid oxygen.
According to Lempke, Nebraska had 12 Atlas Missile Sites, including Elmwood, Avoca, Eagle, Nebraska City, Palmyra, Cortland, Beatrice, Wilber, York, Seward, David City and Tecumseh. The Tecumseh Atlas Missile site was chosen as it would have easy highway access from Lincoln.
Three employees lived and worked at the Atlas Missile Site for days at a time, demonstrating their maintenance and testing skills before a replacement crew would come in.
The Atlas F missile was deactivated and removed from the Tecumseh missile launch complex in May/June of 1965. The former missile site north of Tecumseh is now under private ownership.

Six Quilts of Valor Presented at Brownville Freedom Celebration

news@anewpaper.net (David Swanson) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:24:00 -0500

Morning activities at the Brownville Freedom Celebration Saturday, July 4, included honoring six veterans for their service to the United States.
It was the fifth consecutive year representatives of Nebraska 1 Blue Star Mothers of Nebraska City awarded Quilts of Valor (QOV). Since starting the project in 2017, the chapter has presented 353 quilts.
Honorees were: Terry Haith of Brownville; Dale Hardin of Cheyenne, Wyo.; Buril Hardin of Nevada, Mo.; Walter Harrington of Peru; David Mahr of Columbus, Ohio and Roger Silvrants of Grant. Haith served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Silvrants is a veteran of the U.S. Army. The others are U.S. Navy veterans.
Haith, an Auburn High School graduate, enlisted in 1980 serving 10 years. He was sent for training to the Marine Corps League MCAS El Toro in California. Haith was deployed to provide support as part of the Beirut Peace Keeping Force in 1983. He was awarded Good Conduct and Overseas Service medals.
Dale Hardin, a cousin of Buril Hardin, served four years aboard the U.S.S. Cape Cod.
Buril Hardin enlisted in the fall of 1987 through the delayed entry program and buddy system and retired May 24, 1994. He was sent to the Great Lakes, Ill. Training Center before additional training to the Naval Damage Control Training Center in Philadelphia to the Hull Maintenance Technician “A” School and nuclear power plant component welder training in San Diego. Hardin was assigned to the U.S.S. Cape Cod. He completed 3 Westpac cruises serving internationally including offshore positions during Operation Desert Storm. Hardin was awarded a number of honors.
Harrington served nine-and one-half years, entering in July 1985 in San Antonio, Texas. He was sent to boot camp at the Great Lakes, Ill. Naval Training Center. Harrington was assigned after training to the Aircraft Carrier, U.S.S. Carl Vinson, CVN-70 stationed at Alameda Naval Air Station, Calif. as reactor operator in the fall of 1987. Aboard the ship he participated in West Pac cruises in the Pacific and Indian oceans. Harrington was transferred to Radiological Maintenance School in Charleston, S.C. He later served on U.S.S. Cape Cod AD-43, a nuclear capable Destroyer Tender based out of San Diego and had an additional West Pac tour. Harrington earned several awards.
Mahr enlisted in April 1988 serving six years. He was sent for boot camp to the Great Lakes Training Center in Great Lakes, followed by additional training at the Naval Damage Control Training “A” School in Philadelphia and C-1 Weld School in San Diego becoming a nuclear power plant components welder. Mahr earned the Naval Enlisted Code 4956 nuclear welder and spent two years at the U.S.S. Proteus stationed in Guam. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Cape Cod AD-43 in San Diego. Mahr received a U.S. Navy Achievement and a Good Conduct Medal.
Silvrants enlisted in 1968, his two years included 14 months in Vietnam. He was sent to Fort Lewis, Wash, for basic training and was assigned to the 42nd Artillery, A-Battery, 5th Battalion. In Vietnam, Silvrants’ job was to drive a truck transporting ammunition to various field positions. He served as acting sergeant to the Munitions Division and was awarded the rank of Sergeant E-5.
“We honor you for leaving your home and loved ones and all you held dear to stand in harm’s way in a time of crisis, protecting us from the effects of war,” noted Mary Ann Holland of Nebraska City.
“We know that freedom is not free! We have freedom because of you and the dedication of men and women like you. This quilt is meant to say thank you for your sacrifice. This quilt is meant to comfort you. It is a quilt from your family, friends and a grateful nation. It is to remind you that we care about you. We want to say to you welcome home!,” she continued.
To you who served our country, we hope you keep this quilt with you as a reminder that there are thousands of women and men across this land who are forever in your debt, and that it is our pleasure to honor you with a Quilt of Valor,” Holland concluded.
About QOV Foundation
It began in 2003 with a dream of Catherine Roberts, whose son Nat was deployed in Iraq.
The simple model was have a volunteer team who would donate their time and materials to make a quilt. One person would piece the top and the other would quilt it. From the beginning, Roberts had definite thoughts about standards of excellence for the coverlets. It had to be a quality-made quilt, quilted and not tied, which meant hand or machine quilting.
The first QOV was awarded in November 2003 to a young soldier from Minnesota. As of Tuesday, June 30, there were 14,973 quilts conferred to date in 2026, including 2,971 in June and 450,952 overall. The goal is to reach 500,000 this year.
Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.
Members support mothers with sons or daughters serving actively in the U.S. armed forces.
Nebraska 1 is among two chapters in the Cornhusker State. Nebraska 2 serves residents of Omaha, Lincoln, and central and western Nebraska. Both are among more than 200 chapters with membership of about 6,000 across the United States.
Blue Star Mothers was established during World War II. Its name derived from the custom of families hanging a service banner in a window with a star for each family member in the military.

Johnson-Brock School Honors Students for Academic, Reading and Leadership Achievements

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:17:00 -0500

Awards Conferred On Johnson-Brock Elementary Students

Johnson-Brock Elementary School students were recognized on a number of achievements at the end of school year convocation.
Perfect Attendance Awards
Second grade: Sadie Gossman, Brayden Westling and Keith Williams.
Fourth grade: Gretchen Jobe and Emerson Murray.
Elementary Student Council
Fifth grade: Kinsley Caspers, Everleigh Lindon, Grady Ideus and Michael Woerlen.
Fourth grade: Jobe, Jayde Hahn, Stone Meyer and Riley Eggers.
Third grade: Vada Foster, Spencer Woerlen, Henry Doeden and Harper Volker.
CLASSROOM AWARDS
Kindergarten
100 or more books read: Ansley Gentert, Athena Gebers, Clara Grotrian, Corbin Meyer, Gwen Bernadt, Laynee Gottula, Oaklynn Stutheit and Ziva Woodruff.
200 or more books read: Myles Joy.
300 or more books read: Laikyn Dalinghaus and Raleigh Roberts.
First grade
Book It Winners: Brooks Bohling, Waylon Bohling, Adalynn Meyer, Quinton Pfeiffer, Alexis Saunders, Ramsie Sayer, Lennon Volker, Paisley Westhart and Ryleigh Williams.
Students who had passed 100 or more accelerated reading (AR) tests: Brooks Bohling, Waylon Bohling, Zander Carman, Lasey Crittenden, Adalynn Meyer, Quinton Pfeiffer, Saunders, Sayer, Lennon Volker, Ryleigh Williams and Carter Woerlen.
Second grade
Book It Winners: Lucy Doeden, Sadie Gossman, Cali Hawley, Cash Meyer, Eyslee Meyer, Landry Meyer, Brecken Munson, Isaac Racek, Zelie Stutheit, Brooke Wakulinski, Westling and Levi Zentner.
Third grade
Rocket Math Superstar, farthest in Rocket Math: McCoy Kathol.
Rockstar Reader, all AR points--four quarters: Henry Doeden, Foster and Owen Pfeiffer.
Soaring Eagle, most S.O.A.R. awards: August Bohling.
Fourth grade
Met the classroom AR goal all four quarters: Axel Reeves, Jobe, Evelyn Rippe, Stone Meyer, Audrey McMann, Hahn, Eggers and Coralynn Brommer.
Reached more than 100 AR points: Coralynn Brommer, Hahn and Rippe.
Completed our Rocket Math, quick mathematics facts program: Landon Marshall and Reeves.
Fifth grade
Reading: Hannah Wakulinski, Ideus, Michael Woerlen, Garrett Gossman, Milo Piper, Olivia Fulton and Wesley Zentner.
Rocket Math: Hannah Wakulinski, Ideus, Michael Woerlen, Garrett Gossman, Milo Piper and Blaine Bohling.
Golden Sowers Reading Competition Participants
Participated in reading competition at Peru State College:
Picture books, second and third grades: Harper Volker, Kathol, Bennett Bohling, Owen Pfeiffer, Addie Niedermeyer, Foster, August Bohling and Henry Doeden.
Chapter books, fourth and fifth grades: Rippe, Stone Meyer, Eggers and Hahn, placed first; Michael Woerlen, Garrett Gossman, Ideus and Wesley Zentner, placed fourth; and Olivia Fulton, Caspers, Hannah Wakulinksi and Cora Brommer.

Johnson-Brock 2025-2026 Middle School Honors

Middle school students at Johnson-Brock Public School were acclaimed on 2025-2026 school year accomplishments at the end of the year.
Middle School Golden Sowers
Participated in reading competition at Peru State College.
Novels, sixth and seventh grades: Nora Heller, Arya Marburger, Landon Lempka placed fourth, Quinn Miller, Sutton Eggers and Maycee Reed.
Mathematics
Sixth grade: Landon Lempka.
Seventh grade: Nora Heller.
Eighth grade algebra: Sophie Hunter.
Student Council
Eighth grade: Parker Dunekacke, Corbyn Rasby and Olivia Neddenriep.
Seventh grade: Cameron Hall, Peri Sayer and Nora Heller.
Sixth grade: Braxton Hahn, Maycee Reed and Dillon Meyer.
President’s Education Awards
Eighth grade: Chase Miller and Corbyn Rasby.
Sixth grade: Quinn Miller.
Daughters of the American Revolution Youth Citizenship Award
Eighth grade: Calum Peck.
Sixth grade: Braxton Hahn.
Perfect Attendance: Maycee Reed.

UNL Recognizing Dean's List and Commendation List

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:11:00 -0500

Three Regional Huskers On Spring 2026 Dean’s Commendation List

A trio of regional University of Nebraska-Lincoln students were honored on the Dean’s Commendation List for the spring semester of the 2025-2026 academic year.
They are listed by their respective hometown with college and major All are seniors.
Auburn: Danielle Smith, Journalism and Mass Communications, advertising and public relations.
Nemaha: Kylie Allen, Engineering, mechanical engineering.
Tecumseh: Kaita Baird, Engineering, mechanical engineering.
The regional students were among nearly 500 honorees.
The Commendation List recognizes students in the Colleges of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Arts and Sciences, Education and Human Sciences, Engineering and Journalism and Mass Communications who met or exceeded a specified grade-point average (GPA) and carried six to 11 graded semester hours.
Qualification varies. Listed below are the minimum requirements for each college and their respective dean. All qualifying GPAs are based on a four-point scale. Students can be on the Commendation List for more than one college.
Engineering: 3.7, Lance C. Perez.
Journalism and Mass Communications: 3.7, Adam Wagler, interim.

UNL Spring 2026 Dean’s List Includes Regional Students

Ten area University of Nebraska-Lincoln students are among more than 6,200 earning selection to the Dean’s List for the 2026 spring semester.
They are listed by their respective hometown, year in school, college and major.
Auburn: Leah Grant, senior, Education and Human Sciences, secondary education and work-based learning, grades nine through 12 and Esten Hyde, sophomore, Business, business and law.
Brownville: Logan Dixon, senior, Business, supply chain management and finance.
Elk Creek: Kendall Bohling, sophomore, Business, accounting and Lauren Schaardt, sophomore, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, graphic design.
Johnson: Natalie Clark, junior, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agribusiness and Chris Melvin, sophomore, Engineering, electrical engineering.
Julian: Abigail Hodges, junior, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agricultural leadership, education and communication.
Peru: Adele Keener, freshman, Engineering, computer science.
Sterling: Jesus Gonzalez Castillo, junior, Engineering, civil engineering.
Qualification for the Dean’s List varies among the eight undergraduate colleges and the Explore Center. Listed below are the minimum requirements for each entity with a regional honoree and its respective dean or director. All qualifying grade-point averages are based on a four-point scale and a minimum number of graded semester hours. Students can be on the Dean’s List for more than one college.
Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: 3.75, Thomas Burkey, interim.
Business: 3.6, Kathy Farrell.
Education and Human Sciences: 3.75, Jeff Reese.
Engineering: 3.7, Lance C. Perez.
Hixson-Lied Fine and Performing Arts: 3.7, Andy Belser.

Southeast Community College Recognizes Area Grads and Dean's List Students

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:07:00 -0500

SCC Spring Semester Degrees Presented To 23 Area Residents

There were 23 regional Southeast Community College students who were conferred degrees Tuesday, May 5, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. They are listed by their respective hometown.
Auburn: Zoe Baltensperger, certificate in precision agriculture; Jemma Crosier, diploma in practical nursing; Levi Boellstorff, associate of applied science in electronic systems technician; Noah Erickson, certificate in computer information technology, general technician; Zandra Hoff, associate of arts in early childhood education; Colby McConnaughey, associate of applied science in computer information technology, application development; Ian Maahs, associate of applied science in General Motors automotive service educational program Isaac Hoff, certificate in diesel technology, truck maintenance light repair and Landon Casey, certificate in building construction technology, construction process.
Cook: Tucker Thomas, certificate in diesel agriculture equipment service technology, maintenance and light repair.
Johnson: Chloe Vice, certificate in business; Holden Berglund, certificate in automotive technology and light repair; Kegan Vice, associate of applied science in building construction technology; Sloan Pelican, associate of applied science in electrical and electromechanical technology, electric mechanical industrial maintenance technician and Thomas Gerdes, associate of applied science in John Deere technology.
Nemaha: Carson Youngquist, certificate in welding technology.
Sterling: Samuel Harms, associate of applied science in graphic design/media arts; Kelsie Holthus, diploma in medical assisting and Wyatt Milburn, associate of applied science in electrical and electromechanical technology, electromechanical industrial maintenance technician.
Tecumseh: Ronet Ebong, diploma in practical nursing; Wyatt Ludemann, diploma in precision agriculture; Melissa Lowther, associate of applied science in baking and pastry and associate of applied science in culinary/hospitality and Sergio Valles, certificate in business.
There were 1,344 degrees awarded. The graduates were from numerous Nebraska cities and villages; and 26 other states and 20 nations, representing all continents except Antarctica.

Students From Johnson, Nemaha Counties On SCC Spring Dean’s List

There were 81 regional Southeast Community College students who earned a spot on the Dean’s List for the 2026 spring semester which ended Friday, May 8. It included 39 dual credit students. They will be listed by their respective hometown.
Auburn: Zoe Baltensperger, Grady Behrends and Rowen Benham, all agriculture management and production; Lilyan Becker and Amanda Brook, both associate of health sciences; Quentin Behrends, Calvin Benham, Emily Bohling, Addison Darnell, Ariale Franke, Wyatt Fulton, Layna Gerdes, Hannah Groth, Cammie Hamann, Clara Heller, Rylee Jeanneret, Tyler Koeneke, Charlotte Metschke, Lincoln Peck and Wesley Swanson, all dual credit; Landon Casey and Logan Falk, both building construction; Zandra Hoff, early childhood education; Colby McConnaughey, computer information technology--application development; Madelynn McMann, undeclared and Jaxen Winder, business--bookkeeping.
Brock: Gretchen Anthony, early childhood education; Robert Gravatt and Ruby Gravatt, both dual credit and Tate Hawley, automotive technology and light repair.
Cook: Harrison Bacon, Delaney Baumgartner and Abigail Blomstedt, all dual credit and Tucker Thomas, diesel agricultural equipment service technician.
Crab Orchard: Delanye Currie, associate of health sciences.
Johnson: Rylie Beethe, Hayden Gravatt, Reese Grotrian, Daley Pelican, Gage Rasmussen and Briana Robeson, all dual credit. Annie Benight, healthcare services; Holden Berglund, General Motors Automotive Service Education Program; Kolt Davis, undeclared; Vivian Gerdes, business--entrepreneurship; Justin Meyer, automotive technology and light repair; Vickie Thomason, associate degree nursing (ADN) license practical nurse ADN option and Kegan Vice, building construction.
Julian: Andrew Hodges, welding technology.
Peru: Cutler Adams, agriculture management and production; Ben Parriott, Energy Generation Operations and Baily Sherman, associate of health sciences.
Stella: Shepherd Jacobitz, associate of health sciences.
Sterling: Samuel Harms, graphic design media arts; Beau Kaster, automotive technology and light repair; Jordyn Pella, human services; David Roecker and Taylor Truscott, both dual credit; Chloe Smith, associate of health sciences; Emma Thies, healthcare services and Callene Wusk, electrical technician.
Tecumseh: Ashley Beethe, Leighton Beethe, Joie Janssen, Chanhvilay Kongmanyvong, Levi Othmer, Saige Rother, Sophia Schmid, Delani Sharples, Aiden Strecker, Molly Weber and Cameron Werner, all dual credit; Charlyn Bobadilla, healthcare services; Karen Chavez and Cyndy Reyes, both associate of health sciences; Stephanie Cruz, dental assisting; Ronet Ebong practical nursing; Sandra Kenyon, Melissa Lowther and Sergio Valles, all business and Kaitlynn Plager, psychology.
There were 3,498 students recognized. One must complete at least six semester credit hours with a minimum grade-point average of 3.5 to be honored. Classes with a grade of P, Pass do not count toward the six-hour minimum. The breakdown per campus is: Beatrice, 421; Lincoln, 2,432; Milford, 561 and prison education program, 84.
Additionally, 780 dual credit students and 171 students from The Career Academy merited selection.

Hilltop Dental of Auburn Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Expanded Facility

rebecca@anewspaper.net (Rebecca Johnson) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Hilltop Dental of Auburn marked its new office with a ribbon-cutting ceremony June 29, highlighting a practice that has more than doubled in size and patient volume since it changed hands six years ago.

Dr. Jesse Murphy and Dr. Will Gudenrath, along with Dr. Erich Trumm, purchased the practice in June 2019. What started as a two-doctor, four-operatory office treating 2,500 patients its first year has grown into a four-doctor, ten-operatory practice that treated 5,100 patients in 2025.

“Before we only had four patient operatories. Now we have 10,” Office Manager Stephanie Niederkline said. “So it’s just a matter of being able to expand all of the services that we had before into helping more people.”

The practice offers preventative care, fillings, crowns, root canals, dentures, implants, sedation dentistry, Invisalign, teeth whitening, Botox and sleep apnea treatment. Doctors Murphy, Gudenrath, Tyler Lutt and Trey Asher all have Nebraska ties, with Lutt and Asher recently joining after completing dental school in 2025.

Auburn Mayor Chris Erickson attended the event as well as Councilman Rick Janssen and members of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

“This is an awesome facility,” Erickson said. “Thank you for making the investment in the community, hiring the staff that you have, and just being a part of what we love calling home.”

Left to right, front row: Dr. Tyler Lutt, Dr. Trey Asher, Dr. Jesse Murphy, and Dr. Will Gudenrath.Back left to right: Hygienist Jade, Assistant Angel, Hygienist Amie, Assistant Anjelica, Office Manager Stephanie, and Assistants Erica, Courtney, and Hayleigh. Not Pictured: Assistant Jasmine

Grow Auburn Secures Option for Commercial Expansion

rebecca@anewspaper.net (Rebecca Johnson) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Grow Auburn, Inc., Auburn’s economic development organization, announced two milestones at an economic development mixer held June 24 at the Rural Impact Hub. Advancing commercial growth south of Auburn, an option agreement on a strategic development site and a $25,000 site readiness grant from the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) have been secured.

Site Secured

Grow Auburn secured an option on roughly 22 acres at the southeast corner of Highway 75 and 26th Street. The conceptual layout includes space for a truck stop, a hotel and three additional commercial sites that could house restaurants or other small businesses.

Origins of the Project

The site emerged from a study Grow Auburn commissioned from JEO Consulting Group beginning in June 2025, after the organization received repeated inquiries about available locations for commercial and mixeduse development. The study looked at potential sites for a new fire station, truck stop, hotel, fast-food restaurant and multi-family housing.

After the study’s results came back, Grow Auburn approached area landowners about an option agreement and secured site control on the 22-acre parcel.

NPPD Grant Funds Due Diligence Grow Auburn applied to NPPD’s Site Readiness Assistance Program and was awarded $25,000 to fund due diligence work, including an ALTA survey, geotechnical investigation, natural features and wetland delineation, and a traffic impact study.

That work has been completed and identified no barriers to development, according to Grow Auburn.

Next Steps

With site control secured, Grow Auburn said it can now actively market the property to prospective commercial partners and pursue development opportunities. The organization said it has already approached local investors and entrepreneurs interested in starting or expanding a business in the area.

Reaction

“This is an important investment in Auburn’s future,” Grow Auburn Board Member Chris Erickson said. “Securing this site and receiving support from NPPD allows us to proactively prepare for growth and create opportunities to attract new businesses, expand our tax base, and strengthen our local economy.”

Grow Auburn Vice President Bob Engles thanked NPPD for its continued investment in economic development across the state.

“This grant helps us build momentum as we work to position Auburn for future growth,” Engles said.

Grow Auburn said additional information on development opportunities will be released as the project progresses.

For more information, contact Crystal Dunekacke at Grow Auburn, Inc., crystald@auburn.ne.gov.

Blue Star Mothers Bestow Two Quilts of Valor in Johnson

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

“Our country’s Veterans vowed to lay down their lives for you and me, no questions asked,” began Mary Ann Holland, a member of the Blue Star Mothers, Chapter #1 in Nebraska City. She was pleased to be invited to present two Quilts of Valor at the Quilting Sisters’ Open House in the Legion Hall in Johnson. “The mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation is to cover service members and veterans touched by war, with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. Since January 1 of this year, 11,679 quilts have been awarded across the United States. Since the beginning of this project in 2003, a total 447,658 Quilts of Valor have been awarded.”

One of the Quilting Sisters, Delta Budt of Cook, is a member of Blue Star Mothers, Chapter #1, made a Quilt of Valor for her son, Staff Sergeant Jon Budt. Delta’s sister, Linda Hug of Auburn, made a Quilt of Valor for her husband’s brother, Clarence Warren “Butch” Hug.

Jon Budt enlisted in the Army National Guard on September 11, 2011. He has served a total of 14 ½ years and holds the rank of Staff Sergeant. After basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, he was assigned to the 155th Engineering Company in South Dakota where he was an electrician for six years. He is currently assigned to the 226th Engineering Company in Kansas, where he has been a construction supervisor for the last 8 ½ years.

Jon’s unit was deployed with the Global War on Terror campaign in Kuwait from August 2015 to 2016. He was also among a group of Guardsmen who were sent to Washington, D.C. for the Inauguration of the 46th President, Joe Biden, in January of 2021. An additional deployment during his military career was with a Counter Drug/Narcotics unit from October 2023 through November 2024.

Budt is a native of Cook, and graduated from Nemaha Valley High School. Jon and his wife, Dawn, currently reside in Louisberg, Kansas.

“Butch” Hug enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 25, 1967. He was sent to Fort Polk, Louisiana for basic training. Butch spent two years as an active Guardsman, followed by a period of more than four years with the Army Reserve. Hug’s duty assignment was to Company A, 4th Battalion, 1st BCT Brigade with the 4th Division of the U.S. Army. He received additional training in St. Louis, Missouri. Hug received awards for his expertise with the M-16 and M-14 rifles, also the SS M-60.

Hug is a native of Auburn, graduating from Auburn High School. He and his wife, Catherine currently reside in Lincoln.

FNBJ Seniors Finish on Wrong End of One-Run Games

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

The Auburn Seniors baseball team hit a rut for the first time this summer, dropping three of their four games this past week. Their lone win came on the road against Blair on Saturday, but the week would end with a one-run loss to Hiawatha to finish 1-3 on the week.

The boys were shut out in their first game of the week by Crete on Tuesday, June 23. The team only managed two hits in the contest, while allowing six hits by their opponent.

Despite a slow offensive day, the FNBJ Seniors were still tied at 0-0in the fourth inning, until Crete put the first run on the board with an RBI single. Crete would score two more runs in the bottom of the fifth and another in the sixth, while keeping Auburn off the board, resulting in a 4-0 loss for the FNBJ Seniors.

The offense still struggled throughout their Thursday match up with Seward, staying scoreless through the first six innings as Seward pulled ahead 3-0 entering the seventh.

In desperation time, Mason Schultz drove home the team’s first run in two games with an RBI single. The next three Auburn batters would reach base to cut the lead to just one-run with the tying run on third, but a strikeout would end Auburn’s comeback hopes as they fell to Seward 3-2.

Auburn’s offense would find a rhythm early on Saturday in the team’s win over Blair, in which the boys put up 11 runs in the first inning. Auburn out-hit Blair 5-1 and gave up only a single run in the bottom of the fourth inning.

Gavin Bauer struck out six batters in the first four innings before Westyn Amthor finished the deal, striking out each of the three batters he faced in the seventh inning to save the 11-1 win for Auburn.

Auburn kept the bats hot the next day against Hiawatha, matching their 11 runs on 10 hits, including three from Jackson Warner, who finished with five RBI including a three-run homer in the top of the seventh that put the FNBJ Seniors ahead 11-10.

Unfortunately for Auburn, Hiawatha kept pace with the FNBJ Seniors and tied the game in the bottom of the seventh on an error. Another Auburn error would lead to Hiawatha scoring the go-ahead run as the FNBJ Seniors fell by a score of 12-11, dropping to 10-5 on the season.

MASON SCHULTZ pitches a strike in the third inning..

SENCA’s 20th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament and Raffle

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Southeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership (SENCA) held the 20th Annual SENCA Benefit Golf Tournament and Raffle on Saturday, June 13th at Kirkman’s Lakeview Golf Course (KLGC). Registration started at 7:30 a.m., followed by a shot gun start at 8:30. The tournament hosted twelve (12) four person teams with 48 local and area golfers participating. Each golfer tried their best to win the $10,000 Hole-in-One, but unfortunately no one was able to take home the grand prize.

Following the first 9 holes, golfers enjoyed a nice lunch served in the club house that consisted of sloppy joes, baked beans, various salads, and chips. However, the favorite item on the lunch menu were the delicious homemade cookies compliments of Brenda Kuker.

The top teams, in two flights, were awarded cash prizes. The winning teams were: 1st Place 1st Flight - Witt Team #1 (61); 2nd Place 1st Flight - Wes Swanson Team (62); 1st Place 2nd Flight - Jim Blecha Team (69) on tie breaker; and 2nd Place 2nd Flight - Witt Team #2 (69).

Proceeds from the annual discretionary fundraiser are reinvested in southeast Nebraska communities by assisting economically challenged households as they navigate through emergency situations, increase skill and education, improve the health and safety of their home, and work toward self-sufficiency.

To learn more about the positive impact SENCA’s local programs and services make throughout southeast Nebraska, please visit www.senca. org, or call a SENCA office near you.

Southeast Nebraska Celebrations for July Fourth and America250

rebecca@anewspaper.net (Rebecca Johnson) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Tecumseh to Mark Independence Day with Reunion Weekend, ‘largest fireworks show ever’

Tecumseh will celebrate the Fourth of July with a three-day slate of events July 3-5 that pairs the city’s Independence Day festivities with an all-school reunion, capped by what organizers are billing as the City of Tecumseh’s largest fireworks show ever.
The fireworks begin about 10 p.m. Saturday, July 4, at dusk at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, with patriotic music broadcast on an FM station listed on signs around the grounds. Organizers encourage attendees to bring a lawn chair or blanket and arrive early.
Friday, July 3, festivities include breakfast by Adeline’s Bakery (7 to 10 a.m., 4-H Building), a Cemetery Walk with the Johnson County Museum (9:30 to 10:30 a.m., $20), an Opera House sneak peek (2 to 4 p.m.), burgers and hot dogs by The Grain Bin (6 to 8 p.m.) and music by Kevin McKinney ‘85 at 7 p.m. at the fairgrounds.
Saturday, July 4, opens with the Avenue of Flags on the courthouse lawn, another Adeline’s breakfast, the Cemetery Walk, a Box Lunch & Learn on the Atlas Missile Base (noon, Community Building, $25) and a second Opera House sneak peek. Free evening activities at the fairgrounds from 7 to 9 p.m. include a golf simulator, a youth golf clinic for grades 3-8, and free hot dogs, water, cotton candy and popcorn while supplies last. Live music by the Corson Branch Buzzard Club (Max Morrissey ‘06) runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. ahead of the fireworks.
The weekend closes Sunday, July 5, with the Avenue of Flags on the courthouse lawn and a performance by Daniel Christian ‘98 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Front Porch Winery in Crab Orchard. The Johnson County Museum is open all weekend beginning at 10 a.m.

Auburn is the Place to Bee for America’s 250

Auburn will mark the nation’s 250th anniversary with a three-day Independence Day celebration July 3-5, themed “America 250: Auburn’s the Place to Bee.”
Friday, July 3, activities run at Legion Memorial Park, including firefighter water fights, a wildlife trailer, carnival games, a dunk tank, concessions and scavenger hunts. A Crackerjack Gymnastics demonstration begins at 6 p.m., followed by the Summer Sounds Concert with Chicago tribute band Chicago Invasion from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 4, moves to the Auburn High School campus, with the Avenue of Flags at Legion Memorial Park from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and a disc golf tournament at 8 a.m. The Southeast Community Band performs at 2 p.m. in the AHS gym, with a veterans recognition, the Gettysburg Address presented by Billy Hayes, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and vocalist Alayna Gerdes. Evening activities from 5 to 9 p.m. include inflatables, an FFA dunk tank, games, a fire department cookout (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.), free Bomb Pops while supplies last and a DJ from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The Eagles Club fireworks display begins at 10 p.m. at Auburn High School.
The celebration closes Sunday, July 5, with the Great American Potluck hosted by area churches at noon at the Auburn Christian Church Family Life Center.

Brownville to Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with All-Day Fourth of July Festival

The village of Brownville will host its annual Fourth of July Freedom Celebration and Freedom Run on Saturday, July 4, 2026, with events running throughout the day.
This year’s celebration marks America’s 250th birthday and kicks off the Freedom Run at 7 a.m. Registration starts at 6 a.m. at the corner of Highway 136 and Main Street.
Brownville Eastern Star will serve breakfast at Town Hall from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Also at 8 a.m., Blue Star Mothers will hold a Quilts of Valor presentation and patriotic program in front of Town Hall.
At 9 a.m., the Strut Your Mutt Dog Show will take place on Main Street in front of the Lyceum. Parade lineup also begins at 9 a.m. on Water Street, with fire trucks and rescue vehicles staging along 6th Street. No registration is required to participate in the parade.
The parade sets off at 10 a.m. along Main Street between 6th Street and Highway 136. Children’s activities will follow the parade on the lawn west of Brownville Market on Main Street, featuring bounce houses, an obstacle course, face painters, balloon artists, snacks and a kids race. Hearts United for Animals will also be on hand with dogs and puppies available for adoption.
The Schoolhouse Art Gallery at 427 Main St. will host a 3-D From A Tree Art Show by Randy Perry from after the parade until 4 p.m., with free cookies and lemonade. Brownville Village Theatre will hold a matinee performance at 3:30 p.m.
Those wishing to pre-register for the Freedom Run or who have questions may contact Jaime Sullwold at 402-209-4192.

From the Observer Files

rebecca@anewspaper.net (Rebecca Johnson) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:41:00 -0500

From the Herald Files

An advertisement in the June 25, 1926, edition of the Nemaha County Herald promotes Auburn's Fourth of July celebration, held Monday, July 5, at the Fair Grounds. The nationwide festivities that summer marked the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

100 Years Ago - 1926

As America marked the sesquicentennial of the Declaration of Independence in 1926, Auburn celebrated with a full day of events at the Fair Grounds, according to an advertisement published in the June 25, 1926, edition of the Nemaha County Herald.

Because July 4 fell on a Sunday that year, Auburn's celebration was held Monday, July 5. All grandstand and bleacher attractions were free.

A day-long schedule

The festivities opened with a 10:30 a.m. band concert on Auburn's streets, followed by an afternoon and evening of entertainment:

2 p.m. — Horse racing, with 5/8-mile, 1/2-mile and 3/8-mile dashes and "good purses" for winners
3 p.m. — A baseball game pitting Auburn against Nebraska City
4:30 and 7:30 p.m. — Performances by Jack Hoard's Jubilee Singers, described in the ad as including a jazz band and "Charleston Steppers"
5:30 p.m. — An "Automobile Pig Race" with cash prizes
8:30 p.m. — A Charleston dance contest, open to all comers in pairs, also with cash prizes
9 p.m. — A nine-round boxing card featuring six fighters billed from around Nebraska and the Midwest, including featherweight state champion Freddie Crook

Music played throughout the day courtesy of the Southeast Nebraska Band, and the celebration closed with a dance at the Fair Grounds Auditorium featuring music by "Loomis Demons."

50 Years Ago - 1976
Dedication of the Nemaha Valley Museum on Sunday afternoon will highlight the nation’s bicentennial birthday celebration in Nemaha county. The July 4 program will climax several years work toward the new facility.
Auburn high school’s marching band has accepted an invitation to march in the Cotton Bowl parade at Dallas, Texas, on January 1, 1977, according to Director Paul Ramp, who said 15 high school bands from 10 states were included in the invitation. The Bulldogs are the only unit from Nebraska.
Detasseling time is nearing. Make your plans now. Boys and girls age 14 and over. Earn $2.00 per hour. Starting mid-July. 8 miles south, 1/4 east of Auburn. Apply with Gregg and Kathlene Smith. Adult supervisors also needed.

25 Years Ago - 2001
Work crews were busy Tuesday morning putting brick on the facade of the new expansion at Auburn Family Medical Clinic. Everything is on target for the project to be completed sometime in August, according to Office Manager Kim Kruger.
Two court dates are scheduled for July in the district court suit pitting Peru resident Joe Kincaid versus the District 29 Board of Education and Superintendent Chuck Chevalier. The first will hear arguments on a motion for expedited discovery, for Kincaid to obtain documents from the school district. The second will present arguments on whether or not a temporary injunction should be granted to keep the defendants from moving forward on their decision to close Peru Elementary School.

10 Years Ago - 2016
Sharvil Kaware of Auburn Public Schools is the Nebraska merit winner in the 2016 Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Kaware will be a sixth grader at Auburn Middle School during the 2016-2017 school year. He is being recognized for his project on anti-slip footwear using carbon nanofibers.
A little over a year ago the most recent Nemaha School Reunion took place at the Nemaha Community Building. Great food and laughs were shared at this event but most importantly it was discussed and eventually decided that a project would take place raising funds for and building a permanent historical memorial to honor the Nemaha School and the Old Settlers Picnic in the Village of Nemaha. Ground breaking for the memorial took place June 29th.

From the Chieftain Files

100 Years Ago - 1926

As the country marked the sesquicentennial of the Declaration of Independence in 1926, Tecumseh celebrated with a "Big Free Celebration" on July 3, according to an advertisement in the June 25, 1926, edition of the Nemaha County Herald.

The event, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, was held at the Fair Grounds and promised "plenty of shade and cold water." The ad billed the day as filled with good music and speaking, a picnic dinner, a fine athletic program, horse and pony races, "new and novel" contests, a water fight, a merry-go-round, shows, and a baseball game between Sterling and Tecumseh.

50 Years Ago - 1976
Every state in the union was represented last weekend at the Tecumseh Bicentennial Alumni Reunion with approximately 1,200 people attending both the banquet Saturday night and the barbecue on Sunday.
Over 100 quilts were on display Saturday and Sunday at the United Methodist Church. Included in the exhibit were quilts which were made in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Old Jim Ritchie was celebrating his 100th birthday and everyone commented on how well-preserved he appeared. “I will tell you the secret of my success,” he stated. “My wife and I were married 75 years ago. On our wedding night we made a solemn pledge that whenever we had a fight, the one who was proved wrong would go out and take a walk. Thus, I have been in the open air almost continually all these years.”

25 Years Ago - 2001
A historic milestone occurred on Highway 50 north of Tecumseh on Friday as Constructors Inc. paved 100 feet with a new concrete mixture which contained 3M polyolefin fibers, known as Fibermesh®. Constructors Inc. began paving over the old concrete slab with a .110 millimeter overlay as well as paving the shoulders of the highway three feet wide to a depth of 121/2 inches.
Theodore C. Straube, 106 years of age, of Sterling, died on Monday. He was the last of Johnson County’s WWI veterans. He married Pauline Benson in Tecumseh, July 19, 1921 and they celebrated their 77th anniversary in 1998. He was commissioned as an admiral in the Great Nebraska Navy by Governor Mike Johanns.

10 Years Ago - 2016
Rodney Roesener of Cook decided to retire as a bus driver for Johnson County Central Schools following a career of 50 years. He started driving for Cook Public School, then Nemaha Valley Schools, and then Johnson County Central. “The kids’ behavior on the bus has certainly changed through the years,” said Roesener. Since his grandson, Mitch Faris graduated from Johnson County Central Schools, Roesener decided it was time to end his career as a bus driver.
For the past month, a bird called a killdeer, a member of the piping plover species, has been caring for a next of three eggs in the east parking lot of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Tecumseh. Members of the church put a barrier of two folding chairs and wire around the bird and nest to indicate the location so that it won’t be disturbed by traffic.

Heat Doesn’t Deter 4-H’ers In .22 Rifle and Pistol Contest

news@anewpaper.net (David Swanson) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:31:00 -0500

Sunday afternoon, June 28, five youth conquered the heat to compete in the 2026 4-H .22 rifle and pistol competition at Perry’s farm west of Auburn. Results are as follows:
Senior Smallbore Rifle
Gold medal and champion: Johnny Bohling.
Blue ribbon: Kale Davidson, silver medal.
Red: Matthias Markham.
Intermediate Smallbore Rifle
Gold medal and champion: Tucker Ryan.
Silver medal and reserve champion: Braxton Hahn.
Senior Rifle Silhouette
Gold medal and champion: Johnny Bohling.
Blue: Kale Davidson, silver and Matthias Markham.
Intermediate Rifle Silhouette
Gold medal and champion: Tucker Ryan.
Silver medal and reserve champion: Braxton Hahn.
Senior Smallbore Pistol
Gold medal and champion: Johnny Bohling.
Blue: Kale Davidson, silver.
Red: Matthias Markham.
Intermediate Smallbore Rifle
Gold medal and champion: Braxton Hahn.
Blue: Tucker Ryan, silver.