Does Public Image Still Matter In 2021?

More than a decade ago, Dorchester made national news, thanks to an Associated Press story on the growth of the ethanol industry.

The AP article appeared in newspapers across the country. It was read by millions of Americans. (A Google search shows the article is still readily available on the Internet.)  

With a dateline of Dorchester, Neb., the article opened with:

"DORCHESTER, Neb. -- Outside of two bars and a bank there’s little activity on Washington Street here, where more windows are covered by boards than 'Open' signs. But at the end of the street, semi-trailers stir the dust near a concrete symbol of economic activity. It towers over the signs of small-town decay ..."

Shortly after that story was published, this blog published an editorial titled, "How Important Is Dorchester's Public Image?" It got residents talking. Some were upset by the AP article's portrayal of our community; others were surprised this blog chose to spotlight what was perceived as negative coverage.

Fortunately, since that AP story was published years ago, there have been many improvements in and around town. Credit goes to the many individuals who invested time and financial resources to enhance the appearance of their residential and commercial properties, thereby growing Dorchester's value and attractiveness. 

Think about the upgrades made to Dorchester over the past dozen years or so: a new school; several new additions to the city park, including a $250,000 water park; new businesses on main street and improvements to main street buildings; several older homes restored; new housing built; new commercial buildings and properties constructed. All these improvements deserve recognition from fellow residents.

However, we're disappointed by some of the eyesores that remain, as well as the new ones that have appeared, especially near our community's public areas, which belong to all the taxpaying residents. Blighted and unsightly properties near our park and main street do nothing to enhance the community, nor do they make it attractive to those considering making Dorchester home.

Readers can ignore these words, shrug their shoulders, look the other way. But this point remains as true today as it ever has been: Public image matters, even in an era of declining standards.  

For Dorchester, it's more than just a debate among friends and neighbors. In Dorchester, public image will set the course for our community's future.

Our Perspective: Public Image Counts More Than Ever

Five years ago, Dorchester made national news thanks to an Associated Press story on the growth of the ethanol industry.  That old AP story is still relevant in 2012.

The AP article appeared in newspapers across the nation and was read by millions of Americans. A recent Google search found the article is still readily available on the Internet.  Set in Dorchester, the article opened with the following:

"DORCHESTER, Neb. -- Outside of two bars and a bank there’s little activity on Washington Street here, where more windows are covered by boards than 'Open' signs. But at the end of the street, semi-trailers stir the dust near a concrete symbol of economic activity. It towers over the signs of small-town decay ..."

The story serves as a good reminder that Dorchester needs to make improvements if we are to enhance our public image and our own quality of life.

Five years since that story was published, there have been many upgrades across town. Recognition goes to those individuals who made an investment of time and financial resources. The new school is still remarkable. The main street electronic marquee, upgrades made to the city park, and improvements of buildings along main street are all commendable and deserve a "thank you" from fellow residents.

However, we are disappointed by some of the eyesores that remain -- blighted properties that could be easily improved. One such property is the area behind the Dorchester car wash (pictured above).  Others are homes in complete disrepair, such as the house on the corner of 9th and Jefferson.

Readers can blow these words off.  Shrug your shoulders.  Look the other way.  But public image matters.  

For Dorchester, public image may very well set the course for this community's future.

Editorial: Public Image Counts

Back in May 2007, Dorchester made national news thanks to an Associated Press story on the dramatic increase in the construction across the Midwest due to the growth of the ethanol industry.

The AP story -- which appeared in newspapers across the state and nation -- was read by millions of Americans. A recent Google search by the Times found the article is still readily available on the Internet, on dozens of Web sites.

Set in Dorchester, the article opens with the following lead:

"DORCHESTER, Neb. -- Outside of two bars and a bank there’s little activity on Washington Street here, where more windows are covered by boards than 'Open' signs. But at the end of the street, semi-trailers stir the dust near a concrete symbol of economic activity. It towers over the signs of small-town decay ..."

As we stated some 16 months ago, the AP account portrays our town in a negative and unfair light. Dorchester certainly has more life and economic activity than journalist Jenkins reported. Yet, the story still serves as a good reminder that Dorchester needs to make improvements if we are to enhance our public image -- and our own quality of life.

We are encouraged by the many upgrades made across town over the last year. Recognition goes to the Dorchester Area Community Association and Foundation, as well as the individuals who made an investment of time and financial resources. The new school is remarkable -- it is a structure that any community would prize. We also recognize other enhancements, including the main street electronic marquee, upgrades made to the city park, and improvements of buildings along main street.

However, we are disappointed by some of the eyesores that remain -- eyesores that could be easily addressed. The sight of weeds growing on the sidewalk on the west side of main street, in front of blatantly neglected buildings, is an obvious reminder there is still work to be done. We are especially disappointed this has occurred on a very visible sidewalk less than half a block from Village Hall.

As we said previously, public image matters. Public image attracts growth to a community or expedites its decline. Again, we ask readers to take a minute to scroll down the left-hand column of this Web page and read the historical profile of Dorchester 120 years ago. Times were tough back then, too. But town leaders wanted Dorchester to be known for more than its train depot.

In 2008, let's hope that all Dorchester residents want our town to be known for more than its grain elevator, despite its significant contributions to the area economy.

How Important Is Dorchester's Public Image?

For better or worse, Dorchester is in the news.

The Associated Press is running a story today on the dramatic increase in the construction of large grain silos due to the booming ethanol industry. Most readers know that AP stories appear across the state and country, in newspapers that reach millions of Americans.

Set in Dorchester, today's silo story by AP reporter Nate Jenkins opens with the following:

"DORCHESTER, Neb. -- Outside of two bars and a bank there’s little activity on Washington Street here, where more windows are covered by boards than 'Open' signs. But at the end of the street, semitrailers stir the dust near a concrete symbol of economic activity. It towers over the signs of small-town decay ... the 132-foot-tall cylinder can hold a half-million bushels of corn. It stands alongside much older silos."

We at the Dorchester Times think the AP story portrays our town in a negative and unfair light. Dorchester certainly has more life than its two pubs and bank. And we cannot think of any boarded windows other than those of the the vacant Conner Roofing and Gifts building, which should have been torn down years ago. To be fair, there are certainly many other rural communities much worse off.

That said, we believe the story serves as a good reminder that Dorchester must make improvements if we are to enhance our public image. And image does matter. After all, public image is what attracts growth or expedites decline in a community.

Take time to scroll down the column at the left of this Web page. Read the historical profile of Dorchester 120 years ago. Back then, our town was a thriving pioneer village with a booming business section, three churches, a newspaper and several community organizations. The community was on the verge of building a new school. Of course we cannot turn back the clock, but lessons can be learned and inspiration can be gleaned from that bygone era.

Times were tough in the 1887 -- much tougher than in 2007. Money was tight back then, too. But town leaders made things happen and residents got behind those efforts because community mattered. In 1887, Dorchester's residents wanted the town to be known for more than its two-story train depot. In 2007, Dorchester residents should strive for the town to be known for more than its grain elevator, despite its contributions to the area economy. The legacy we leave for our children and grandchildren is up to us.

We will now get off of our soap box. But we would like to hear feedback from our readers on their reaction to the AP story, which can be viewed here. We look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Dorchester's Public Image, Part II

In 2007, shortly after this blog first started publishing, the Associated Press ran a story on the increase in the construction of large grain silos due to the formerly booming ethanol industry. AP stories appear across the state and country, in newspapers that reach millions of Americans. Set in Dorchester, the 2007 silo story opened with the following:

"DORCHESTER, Neb. -- Outside of two bars and a bank there’s little activity on Washington Street here, where more windows are covered by boards than 'Open' signs. But at the end of the street, semi-trailers stir the dust near a concrete symbol of economic activity. It towers over the signs of small-town decay ...

Back then, the Times wrote that we believe the story served as a good reminder why Dorchester must make improvements to enhance our public image. As we wrote, public image does matter. After all, it is what attracts growth or expedites decline in a community.

We ask readers to consider all the positive developments in Dorchester over the past few years: a new school, new businesses, repairs along Main Street, a beautified city park, a new concession stand and football field entrance, and many home improvements throughout town.

Dorchester has a lot going for it. So is it fair to the majority of Dorchester residents that some homeowners and property owners around town are allowed to keep their real estate in disorder and disrepair?

Our town seems to have more than its fair share of negligent property owners. From the feedback we have received from fellow residents, it seems that taxpayer unrest is reaching a boiling point.

Perhaps it is time for a thorough scrubbing of the village ordinances. Also, community members should be asking themselves:

• Why isn't some type of action being taken against owners who have junk vehicles on their property?
• Does Dorchester need a committee on blighted property?
• Is there enough interest that current residents and former residents or school alumni might contribute to a clean-up fund to remedy neglected properties?

Recognizing Dorchester's Latest Improvements

Since the Dorchester Times went online nearly 14 months ago, we have published numerous stories and reader comments regarding the areas of our community in need of improvement.

In one of our early posts, we took issue with an Associated Press reporter who painted a negative picture of our community's appearance. However, at the time, we said the story served as a good reminder that Dorchester must make improvements to enhance our public image. As we said back then, image does matter.

We wrote: "Public image is what attracts growth or expedites decline in a community ... Dorchester residents should strive for the town to be known for more than its grain elevator ... The legacy we leave for our children and grandchildren is up to us."

Some readers will recall that we even dedicated our first online poll to the subject of community improvement projects.

Well, there have been several changes in our small town over the past 14 months. And while much work is still needed, we would be remiss if we didn't acknowledge and recognize some of the recent enhancements.

The $4 million renovation and expansion of the Dorchester School campus has received the bulk of attention inside and outside of Dorchester. Rightfully so. But today, we pay tribute to those improvements that have been completed over the past year. Here are the top three, as we see them:

No. 3 - Main Street Electronic Marquee: Gone are the days of downtown Dorchester's baby-blue manual marquee. A larger, orange-and-black electronic sign now graces Dorchester's Main Street median. Installed last spring, the electronic marquee displays the date, time and temperature, while also announcing upcoming town events and special messages, including birthday greetings to residents. The new marquee has not only added some extra livliness to Washington Avenue, it has served as an effective method of mass communication.

No. 2 - Main Street Building Upgrades: Over the past 12 months, we've noted several improvements to Main Street's buildings. The old Conner's Gifts & Roofing building -- damaged by fire in the early 1980s -- was re-sided, as was one of the west side buildings. City Hall is now graced with decorative plants. Sherryl's West Side Saloon has expanded north. And members of the Dorchester Area Community Association (DACA) have worked on displays in the building north of the Saline State Bank.

No. 1 - City Park Shelter & New Playground Equipment: Perhaps the most notable improvement in Dorchester is the new City Park shelter and playground equipment. The new shelter was one of the first projects initiated by the Dorchester Area Community Foundation (DACF). Many area residents, former residents and DHS alumni have contributed to this project. The Foundation also received a $16,200 matching grant from the Nebraska Game and Parks. The improved and expanded play equipment area is also impressive. Again, leaders with the DACF applied for and received a $5,000 grant on behalf of the Village of Dorchester for the new playground equipment. The Village Board agreed to match the $5,000 grant from the Kiewit Foundation board. Several volunteers contributed their time to install the playground equipment.

We salute the leaders and property owners of Dorchester who made all of the above improvements a reality. As a result of their service, dedication and efforts, our town is a better place to live. Thanks to them, our quality of life has jumped another notch.

We anxiously await the next round of improvements in Dorchester -- on public and private properties -- and encourage all residents to help in this collective endeavor.

Funds Needed Now To Complete Dorchester Welcome Signs

As reported earlier, the Dorchester Community Foundation is raising funds to finalize the town's welcome sign project.   

According to Foundation officials, the plans are to build the first sign on Highway 33 on the south side of town.  That welcome sign will rest on the west edge of the Saline County Historical Society’s property.   

A second sign will then be erected on the west side of Highways 6/15 near the access spur north of town.  

According to information provided to the Times, both signs will mirror the design that is to be painted on the village's new water tower, which could be completed yet this year or early 2013.  Planners wanted to tie the new signs to Dorchester’s new symbol, which will soon sit high above the town's rooftops for decades to come.

"This will be a great first step in re-branding Dorchester's public image for the new century," said one community leader. "I hope everyone in town, the surrounding area, as well as Dorchester natives who now live elsewhere will contribute to this worthy cause."

The signs will be rather substantial in size, measuring 8' tall (pillars) and 20' wide.  They will stand on an elevated landing measuring 6' by 24'.  Plans are to have them lighted, as well.  

The signs will be all concrete and brick and should require little to no maintenance.

The Dorchester Community Foundation has secured some funds, but must now raise approximately $16,000 to complete this important project that reflects our community pride. 

The Dorchester Community Foundation is currently accepting donations to help complete the project. 

The Welcome Sign Committee is made up of the following Foundation members:  Mike Pracheil, Eric Stehlik, Carol Olson, Linda Easley and Dale Hayek.

If you would like to contribute to this project, make checks payable to Dorchester Community Foundation Fund. 

Donations should be sent to:

Joyce Karl
108 Whitmar Avenue
Dorchester, NE  68343

Or

Dale Hayek
652 County Road 1200
Dorchester, NE  68343

 

The Dorchester Community Foundation Fund is a non-profit subsidiary of the Nebraska Community Foundation so all donations are tax deductable.

Dorchester's Citizen Of The Year: Penny Keller

The Dorchester Times is proud to name Penny Keller as its "Dorchester Citizen of the Year."

Keller is receiving this honor based largely on her efforts to clean up neglected properties throughout Dorchester.  Many small towns in Nebraska -- from Wymore to Lyman -- have neglected to be proactive in this area, and it shows.

One reader told us: "I’d like to nominate Penny Keller.  She cares about the community of Dorchester.  She is a loyal and tireless citizen who wants to make our wonderful village an even a better place.  She has passion for Dorchester."

In the summer of 2016, Keller was hired by the village board as Dorchester's new nuisance abatement and code compliance officer to ensure that residents and other property owners are keeping their properties up to community standards and ordinances.  

Keller, who is working as a contract employee, started her duties in early August, according to official documents.  Her job is to help ensure the continuation of property clean-up notices and enforcement originally initiated by SENDD.

Within just weeks of Keller starting her job, residents noticed the difference. For example, one clean-up of commercial property south of the city park received rave reviews.  The Times received several e-mails and online comments praising the village for requiring action.

"It's good to see property owners willingly and promptly complying with the village requests for clean-up," we wrote in August.  "They, too, should be applauded for their efforts. Those who ignore the warnings and requests should face consequences."

Run-down, neglected, and unsafe pieces of property trample the rights of those who live nearby.  Moreover, they harm Dorchester's public image, which matters if we want to grow our village.  Approaching people to tell them it's time to clean up their mess -- whether in person, by phone or by mail -- is no easy task.  We commend Keller for the work she has done over the past several months. 

If you suspect a property in Dorchester is non-compliant with village standards, call 402-418-8670 or to i.comply@outlook.com.

Keller has also volunteered for several years by serving on the Dorchester Planning Commission.  This commission is charged with guiding village efforts to grow and improve Dorchester's quality of life.  Among the actions the commission undertakes is dealing with zoning issues.

Our previous Citizen of the Year winners include Carol Olson, Dale Hayek, and Bill Velder. 

Honorable mentions submitted to the Times (Dorchester.Times@gmail.com) this year and in years past include:  Peg Bergmeyer, Lyle Weber, Greg Tyser, Todd Axline, all members of the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Dept. and Rescue, Ben Haufle, Brent Zoubek, Kyleigh Jo Lewis, Phil Weber, Steve Ottmann, Scott Pohl, Eric Stehlik, Joyce Karl, Adam Briggs, Rob "Bert" Parks, John Bruha, Mark Bors, Tom Cerny, Amanda Cerny, Julie and Joe Holly of "The Well", LJ Barley, Bob and Marva Kasl, and Ryan Voelker.

Congratulations to Penny Keller, our Times' Citizen of 2016!

Noticable Results Since Property Code Enforcement Started This Month

Earlier this summer, the Times reported that a new enforcer had been selected to ensure that Dorchester residents and other property owners are keeping their property up to community standards and village ordinances.  

The Dorchester Village Board officially hired and gave the green light to Penny Keller, the village's new nuisance abatement and code compliance officer.

Keller, who is working as a contract employee, started her duties in early August, according to official documents.  Her job is to help ensure that property clean-up notices and enforcement originally initiated by SENDD a few years ago continues.  

We have noticed results just weeks since Keller started the job.  

One of the more welcomed clean-ups has been the commercial property south of the city park.

It's good to see property owners willingly and promptly complying with the village requests for clean-up.  They, too, should be applauded for their efforts.

Those who ignore the warnings and requests should face consequences.  After all, a run-down, neglected, unsafe and trashy piece of property tramples the rights of neighbors and hurts Dorchester's public image.

If you suspect a property in Dorchester is non-compliant with village standards, you are urged to call 402-418-8670 or to i.comply@outlook.com.

UPDATE: New Village Logo Now On Water Tower

Crews have finished painting the village's logo on Dorchester's new water tower.  

Those driving west on Highway 33, as well as those in town on on south on Highway 6, have a clear view of the logo and lettering.

"This will be a great first step in re-branding Dorchester's public image for the new century," said one community leader earlier this spring.

The new village water tower is located in the southeastern corner of town near the rail line. 

The new tower offers a much more modern appearance compared to the older structure.

Records show that Dorchester's old water tower has been in its current location since the late 1880's. 

The old tower's appearance has changed little since the turn of last century, according to research by the Times staff.

When the old tower is removed, it will certainly mark the end of an era.  

Dorchester's modern-day water system was established in 1914 after citizen's approved a $15,000 water works bond.  It is surmised that the old tower was erected prior to that time, although the structure has undergone several upgrades and renovations.

UPDATE: Dorchester's New Water Tower Marks New Era

UPDATE:  Dorchester's skyline has become noticeably different.

Just hours ago, the crews working on Dorchester's new water tower attached the bulb.  It's quite a sight from Highway 33.  The picture at the right was taken around 2:30 this afternoon.

Inside sources say the crew's crane was not big enough to lift the entire bulb yesterday, so they had to cut off the top third in order to raise this much today. Once in place, the crews will weld the top lid while hundreds of feet from the ground. 

For the past century, since the early 1900's, the current water tower has been a focal point in our community.  That will change when the village's new water tower is complete.  

Work on the new tower is supposed to be completed no later than April 1.  The project could be wrapped up by the first day of spring, the Times is told.

The new tower will display Dorchester’s new village logo from high above the town's rooftops for decades to come.

"This will be a great first step in re-branding Dorchester's public image for the new century," said one community leader.

Records show that Dorchester's old water tower has been in its current location since the late 1880's.  The structure's appearance has changed little since the turn of last century, according to research by the Times staff.

The new village water tower, located in the far southeastern corner of town near the rail line, is much more modern in appearance.  One expert said it will be very similar to Fairmont's water tower in both size and shape.

When the old tower is no longer needed, it will certainly mark the end of an era.  

Dorchester's modern-day water system was established in 1914 after citizen's approved a $15,000 water works bond.  The old tower was erected prior to that time, although the structure has undergone several upgrades and renovations.

Looking Back: Dorchester's Main Street, Circa 1910

Today, let's go back in time -- way back to 1910.

Thanks to a loyal reader who sent us an image via e-mail (you may do the same at dorchester.times@gmail.com), we were provided this glimpse of the Bank of Dorchester and corner drug store just after the turn of the 20th century.

The image is from a vintage postcard. (Click on the pictures for a closer view.)

Notice the patriotic display in drug store window. A postcard rack can be seen through the storefront window.  

Much different times indeed.

According to our research, and some help from the 1981 Dorchester centennial book, the two businesses were housed on the southwest corner of 7th Street and Washington Avenue (Main Street).

Notice the windmill behind the building. This supplied water since it sat where Dorchester's old water tower stood prior to its removal in 2013.

Today, First State Bank resides at this location, but the building has long had a much newer front.

The Bank of Dorchester operated from 1913 through 1930, when it fell victim to the Great Depression. To the south of the bank was Randall's shoe shop, owned by William Randall from 1888 through 1917. The space separating the bank and the shoe store -- the public library today -- was there even in the early 1900s.

It is unclear which former Dorchester drug store is pictured, since Dorchester had at least a half-dozen drug stores from 1900 through 1920. Our best guess is that the pharmacy pictured belonged Dr. J.E. Waller, who owned and operated this store from 1909 through 1915. 

The Times would love to hear about any history our readers can share regarding these businesses.

Superintendent Schrunk: Help Us Grow Dorchester's School -- Be Part Of The Solution

Today, we feature another editorial from Daryl Schrunk, who gives our readers his thoughts on Dorchester and its school after a year on the job.  Schrunk took over as superintendent of Dorchester's K-12 school at the start of the 2016-2017 school year.

****

My goal is to increase enrollment, yet retain the strength of small class sizes.  I am encouraging all patrons to assist in this effort.  

By reaching out to friends in neighboring communities and promoting the quality education we provide, we can meet this goal.  In this joint effort, I hope to increase our K-12 enrollment to at least 200 students in two years (currently our K-12 enrollment is 180 students).  

The short term fix lies in option enrollment, especially targeting 7-12 students, since this is where we have lower numbers.  

Longer term fix needs to be focused on housing rehabilitation and development.  Need to have attractive housing options to bring in families.  

Ideally, the following needs to happen, with your help:

• Keep the resident students in the district. 
• Bring back resident students who have opted-out.  
• Option-in students who can contribute positively to our district.  

The state formula for Net Option students gives the school district approximately $10,000 per student.  So if a school had a Net Option of five students, the school would get approximately $50,000 in additional funding.  Currently, Dorchester gets $0 for option students as our number of students who option-in compared to the number of students who option-out is equal.

Do you know of a student in a nearby school district who would benefit by optioning-in to Dorchester? If so, click here for the option enrollment form, which is due March 15.  Call 402-946-2781 for assistance.

A patron recently asked me how many students we could have enrolled at one time without adding costs of staffing and facilities.  There are obviously various factors to consider, especially the needs of the uniqueness of every student.  However, I immediately answered him by saying 250 students.  This would be class sizes averaging 18-20 students per grade level (currently we average 13 students per grade level).  This may seem like a lofty goal but it is definitely possible with a commitment by the school and community to build and sustain our safe, caring town.     

Dorchester Public School enrollment since 2002-03.  Click to see a larger image.

Dorchester Public Schools are fortunate to offer so many extra-curricular activities for our students.  A strength of a small school is the opportunity to participate in so many activities.  Please continue to encourage our youth to participate in as many activities during their time at DPS.  We believe that some of the most important life skills are learned through these experiences. 

Dorchester offers the following extra curricular activities: Football, Volleyball, FBLA, Jr. High Football, Jr. High Volleyball, Student Council, Wresting, Girls & Boys Basketball, Science Olympiad, Jr. High Wrestling, Jr. High Basketball, Electronic Vehicle, Track, One-Act Play, Quiz Bowl, Jr. High Track, Jr. High Play, Spring Play, Journalism, Speech, Elementary Honor Choir, Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, D-Club, Jr. High Vocal Music, Jr. High Instrumental Music, Reading Classic, National Honor Society (NHS), High Ability Learners (HAL), Jr. High Quiz Bowl.

Daryl Schrunk

Superintendent
(402) 946-2781

dschrunk@dorchesterschool.org

Dorchester offers a quality education, supportive staff, new facilities, advanced technology and many opportunities for students in grades pre-Kindergarten through grade 12.  At Dorchester, every student truly matters.

It's Summertime: Share Your Photos With Times' Readers

Summer is here and the Times hopes will area residents will share your pictures or videos with our readers. All you need is a digital camera or mobile phone.

If you find yourself with a front-row view of some major event, community gathering, sporting contest, severe weather, a beautiful sunset, or you are just strolling down Dorchester's streets, take a picture or video and share the experience with fellow Times' readers. We will select the best and use them in a future post.

Here's all you have to do:

1. Take the photograph or video with any picture-enabled mobile phone or digital camera.

2. Send it to dorchester.times@gmail.com.

3. Include your name and a brief description in the message field.

Please remember that by submitting your video(s) or photograph(s) you confirm that you agree to grant the Dorchester Times a perpetual, royalty-free right to use your images and make them available to the public. You grant to the Times the right to edit and/or modify your material in any manner necessary in order to have the material comply with our formatting or publication needs. You further agree to indemnify and release the Times of any and all liabilities for any claims, charges, injuries, losses or damages of any kind caused by, resulting from or arising out of your submission or the Times' use of the image(s).

Now, with the legal terms out of the way, please submit your material. Fellow readers anxiously await to see your work.

NEWS ROUNDUP: Free Youth Basketball Camp, June 28-29

Dorchester Youth Basketball Camp is June 28-29: Kids, get ready to work on your b-ball skills! On June 28 and 29, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. both days, Dorchester Public Schools is hosting a youth basketball camp for all kids going into grades 1 through 8. There's no need to sign up -- and the camp will be free. Just show up the day of the camps and be ready to learn from the high school coaches and athletes. If you have any questions, you can contact Coach Brandon Bruha at brandon.bruha@dorchesterschool.org.

Multiple Forms Available on Village's Website: Want to start making you Dorchester utilities payment by having it automatically deducted from your checking or savings account? You can do it with this form. Need a hobbyist permit so you can keep your immobilized vehicle parked in town for up to 90 days? Use this form. Several forms for multiple activities -- from starting utility service to getting a zoning permit -- are available on the Village of Dorchester's site under "forms" at the menu atop the homepage.

Young Dorchester Angler Wins Prizes: A young Dorchester angler took two top prizes from the Lower Big Blue Natural Resources District and Swan 5 Advisory Council's 20th annual free family fishing day and youth fishing and casting derby, held late last month at the Willard L. Meyer Recreation Area near Tobias. In the ages 13-18 category, Keith Kemmerling reeled in the most fish, and he also won the casting contest. Impressive work, Keith!

Mackenzie Luzum Takes Top Honor in Nebraska Art Contest: In the world of art, Mackenzie Luzum received third place in a statewide contest of 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. She used prisma colors to create the image of a large-mouth bass on matte board. Check out Mackenzie's creation.

DHS Alum Makes Midland Dean's List: Abigail Zoubek, a 2021 DHS graduate, has made the dean's list at Midland University. She recently completed her freshman year, majoring in exercise science.

Time to Register for July 4 Stampede: On Monday, July 4, as part of the village's Independence Day celebration, Dorchester will host the annual Longhorn Stampede. Participants can choose from a 1-mile, 2-mile, or 5K fun run/walk. The event will start at 7:30 a.m. Register by June 15 to receive a T-shirt or tank top. 

NEWS ROUNDUP: Dorchester School Hosts Open House Tuesday Night

School Open House Is Tuesday:  As the kids (and parents) mentally prepare to begin another school year, Dorchester Public Schools will hold an open house the evening before the first day of school.  The open house will take place Tuesday, Aug. 16, 6:30 p.m. in the gym.  Students will meet their new teachers and see their classrooms.  Students can bring their school supplies so they're ready when the bell rings on Wednesday.  DPS' new superintendent, Mr. Schrunk, will also greet students and parents.  Be there as the 2016-2017 school year gets underway!

Dorchester Preschool Taking Applications Now:  The Dorchester Preschool is now taking applications for enrollment for the 2016-17 school year.  The preschool specializes in preparing young minds with the thinking skills and concepts needed for school readiness in the 21st century.  Dorchester Preschool is available for kids who will be 3 years old by September 1, and for 4-year-olds who plan to attend Kindergarten the next fall.  For more information, call Doris at 946-2066 during school hours, or at her home at 402-821-2547.

Husker Fantasy Camp Design Carved In Local Corn Field: Did you happen to see U.S. Cellular's design carved in a corn field just west of town? Probably not, unless you were operating your drone or flying yourself up and around the Dorchester skies.  The image to the right is from the social media account of Joel Weber, the DHS alum who is owner and operator of Weber Feed Yards.  We are told by inside sources that the U.S. Cellular Husker Fantasy Camp Sweepstakes offers an exciting opportunity that includes a Memorial Stadium tour, chalk talk with former Nebraska football players,on-field activities, game jersey and playbook.  Whatever it is, that's quite a billboard.

Old-Fashioned Replica Signs Available For Your Business:  Some of our readers recall days when every business on most main streets across America had their own cool-looking neon or bulb-lit sign.  Now businesses in Dorchester and elsewhere can replicate that look to draw attention to their operations.  A company based in San Diego will personalize this sign for you and your needs.  Click here to see the company's Craigslist ad.  (The Times is neither receiving compensation for this mention, nor are we affiliated with this business.  We just wanted to share this interesting ad with our readers.)

Share Your Sunset & Sunrise Photos With Our Readers

Summer brings some of the best sunsets and best memories -- and the Times hopes will area residents will share their sunset images with our readers. All you need is a digital camera or mobile phone, as these Saline County pictures prove. 

If you find yourself with a front-row view of a beautiful sunset or sunrise, or any other summertime moment, take a picture and share the experience with fellow Times' readers. We will use them in a future post.

Here's all you have to do:

1. Take the photograph with any picture-enabled mobile phone or digital camera.
2. Send it to dorchester.times@gmail.com.
3. Include your name and a brief description in the message field.

By submitting your video(s) or photograph(s) you confirm that you agree to grant the Dorchester Times a perpetual, royalty-free right to use your images and make them available to the public. You grant to the Times the right to edit and/or modify your material in any manner necessary in order to have the material comply with our formatting or publication needs. You further agree to indemnify and release the Times of any and all liabilities for any claims, charges, injuries, losses or damages of any kind caused by, resulting from or arising out of your submission or the Times' use of the image(s). 

Now, with the legal terms out of the way, please submit your material. Fellow readers anxiously await to see your work.

Share Your Photos & Videos With Times Readers

The Times wants you to share your pictures or videos with our readers. All you need is a digital camera or mobile phone. (*UPDATE 7/28: The Times has already received a handful of photos from Dorchester readers, including "Sunset Swim" by Tina Bayliss and "Nebraska Sunset" from a reader who asked to remain anonymous. Both are pictured at the right.)

If you find yourself with a front-row view of some major event, community gathering, sporting contest, severe weather, a beautiful sunset, or you are just strolling down Dorchester's streets, take a picture or video and share the experience with fellow Times' readers. We will select the best and use them in a future post.

Here's all you have to do:

1. Take the photograph or video with any picture-enabled mobile phone or digital camera.
2. Send it to dorchester.times@gmail.com.
3. Include your name and a brief description in the message field.

Please remember that by submitting your video(s) or photograph(s) you confirm that you agree to grant the Dorchester Times a perpetual, royalty-free right to use your images and make them available to the public. You grant to the Times the right to edit and/or modify your material in any manner necessary in order to have the material comply with our formatting or publication needs. The Times does not guarantee in any manner that all material submitted will be displayed or the term or duration that any material may be displayed. Also, by submitting content, you agree that all images submitted by you are your original creation or otherwise free for us to use in this purpose. You further agree to indemnify and release the Times of any and all liabilities for any claims, charges, injuries, losses or damages of any kind caused by, resulting from or arising out of your submission or the Times' use of the image(s). Now, with the legal terms out of the way, please submit your material. Fellow readers anxiously await to see your work.