Happy New Year From The Times

From the staff of the Dorchester Times, a happy new year to all our readers and followers.  May 2019 be your best year yet.

Kim Schnell Passes At 61

Dorchester's Kimberlie Ann Schnell, age 61, passed away December 20, 2018 surrounded at her home in Dorchester.  

Services are pending at this time.  

Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com.  

Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln are handling the arrangements.

Lady Longhorns Capture Gold At Weeping Water

The Dorchester Lady Longhorns' basketball team captured the gold at their holiday tournament this past weekend.

The DHS girls went 2-0 at the Weeping Water Holiday Basketball Tournament.  On Friday, the Lady Longhorns beat Lewiston 45-21.  On Saturday, in the title match, DHS cruised to a 47-30 win over Conestoga.

The DHS boys team didn't fare as well, falling to Weeping Water on Friday and to Cedar Bluffs on Saturday.

Both squads are back in action this Thursday, Jan. 3, at home, where both the boys and girls varsity teams will take on Sterling.  

On Saturday, Jan. 5, both the DHS boys and girls teams travel to Cedar Bluffs for a road contest.

Jan. 7 Village Board Meeting Will Focus On Streets

The Times has been notified that the Dorchester Village Board will host a public hearing at 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 7 at the Village Fire Hall to address Dorchester's streets.  

Several residents say this could be an interesting meeting considering that in 2019, the Dorchester Village Board will consist of three new board members and possibly a fourth, depending on the replacement for former Chairman Matt Hoffman.  Only Trustee Andrea Pracheil remains from the previous board.

According to the notice, the town board will consider the adoption of a long-range street improvement plan for one year and six years.

Any interested persons are invited to attend this public hearing and to present pertinent information, data, views or to request additional information.  

It is the opinion of this blog that serious paving plans should be taken up at this time, especially sensible plans to finish paving 11th Street, which has only four unpaved blocks from east to west.  This is especially important considering the new addition for housing development coming to north Dorchester.

Also, we hope that the board will address the long-overdue resurfacing of Main Street and West 9th Street, as well as a possible ban on semi-trailers driving on paved public streets due to the serious damage such vehicles cause.

Brent Zoubek, Greg Tyser Are Our 'Citizens Of The Year'

The Dorchester Times is proud to name Dorchester head football coach Brent Zoubek and DHS super fan Greg Tyser as the "Dorchester Citizens of 2018."

Coach Zoubek is receiving this honor based largely on his successful effort to revive Dorchester football.  The reappearance of Longhorn football at Nerurd Field was voted the top story of 2018 by our Dorchester Times staff members.

Dorchester had been without a football team of its own since 2013, as fewer enrolled boys in grades 9-12 and decreased participation rates raised questions whether a viable eight-man team could be fielded.  However, Zoubek never lost faith.  Instead, he lead efforts to bring back Dorchester football in the six-man form, just as nearly 40 other Nebraska high schools took up the six-man game in 2018.

As one Times staffer said, "You could just feel energy breathed into this village when the Friday night lights were turned back on."

Zoubek was able to get nearly two dozen young men to go out for football this season.  As reported by school officials, the result was not only a renewed focus on school spirit, but better grades and better attitudes among male students.  

Zoubek also played a big role in helping Dorchester properly salute DHS alumni who played on the six-man football teams of the 1950s, as well as their former coach, Bill Story who was also on hand at the season opener in late August. This was a special occasion since 69 years ago this past fall, Dorchester resumed its football program following a hiatus since the 1930s.

Meanwhile, Greg Tyser is also receiving this year's "Citizen of the Year" honor because of his efforts to rally the Dorchester football fan base.  

Tyser, who is owner of Tyser Repair and Tyser Auto Sales, renovated an old Dorchester school bus and affectionately called it the "Longhorn Express."  The renovated machine carried two dozen or more Dorchester football fans to DHS' away football games, ensuring a large turnout of orange and black at each road contest.  In fact, it was common to see as many or more DHS fans at the road games.  

Tyser is the definition of a die-hard Longhorn fan -- a booster extraordinaire -- and his efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Previous winners of the Dorchster Times' Citizen of the Year award have been Peg Bergmeyer, Penny Keller, Carol Olson, Dale Hayek, and Bill Velder. 

Honorable mentions submitted to the Times by non-staff members (Dorchester.Times@gmail.com) either this year or in previous years include (in no particular order): Deanna Bird (two nominations), Amanda Cerny, Tom Cerny, Larry Kaspar, Lyle Weber, Shelly and Rose Bruha, Todd Axline, the members of the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Dept. and Rescue, Jason and Kathy Duhrkop, Mike Pracheil, George Kasl, Ben Haufle, Brent Zoubek, Kyleigh Jo Lewis, Don Eret, Phil Weber, Steve Ottmann, Scott Pohl, Eric Stehlik, Joyce Karl, Adam Briggs, Rob Parks, John Bruha, Mark Bors, Tom Cerny, Joel Weber, Julie and Joe Holly, LJ Barley, Bob and Marva Kasl, Dan Nerud, Mike Nohavec, Brandon Zoubek, Lisa Veprovsky, Daryl Schrunk and Marv Kasl.

Congratulations to Brent Zoubek and Greg Tyser, our Times' Citizens of 2018.

Street Paving Coming This Spring, Sources Say

The Dorchester Times has received information from two reliable sources who say street paving will be coming to Dorchester in 2019, as early as this spring.  

At this time, only one street appears to be the target of paving, and that is Depot Street, which runs parallel to the railroad tracks and grain elevator, and past the main offices of the Farmers Cooperative.  

Our sources say that Farmers Cooperative plans to pave the full length of the western portion of Depot Street, from Spur 76E to main street (Washington Ave.).  

The Village of Dorchester granted the Farmers Cooperative exclusive access to this section of Depot Street several years ago to accommodate grain unloading operations.  So this street will be for private use only.

Nonetheless, if true, the paving project will significantly reduce the harvest-time dust in town, as well as the amount of crushed rock and gravel that makes its way onto main street.  

We were unable to confirm if village officials have spoken with the Farmers Co-op executives or the contractors slated to do the paving to see if other streets might be paved during this time, a move that would lock in more cost efficiency.  

Stay tuned for breaking news on this developing story...

Tuttle Inc. Donates Welding Machines To DPS

Businesses often lead the way when it comes to generosity, as well as in looking out for the education of our young people.

The Friend newspaper reports that welders donated by Tuttle Inc. in Friend were given to industrial tech classes at both Friend and Dorchester Public Schools in October.

Dorchester received three welders, one to keep and the rest to return at a later date, including a TIG 200 Square Wave Welder. Friend Public School was also given three welders, all of which they are able to keep.

“We have been in need of welders for a long time now,” Brandon Bruha, industrial tech educator at Dorchester, said. Bruha plans to use the donations for both stick and TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding for the seven juniors and seniors in his class.

“We have never had a machine that was capable of doing TIG welding,” Bruha said. “Now the students will be able to experience that, which is being used a lot in manufacturing today.”

See the article here.

Dorchester Home Now Available For Rent

Dorchester's real estate market is hot.  As we've reported before, with demand for small town life growing, this village of around 600 often cannot keep quality homes on the market for 24 hours. 

This comes as no surprise since Dorchester has a lot going for it, especially if you prefer living in a safe, friendly and affordable community that has much potential for the future. 

Consider what Dorchester has to offer:

• ONE OF THE BEST SMALL SCHOOLS IN NEBRASKA: A new K-12 school with some of the state's best educators.  The lowest school tax levy in the county and one of the lower property rates in southeast Nebraska.

• SAFE COMMUNITY:  With a new water system and sewer system.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable cost of living.

• KEY BUSINESS: Headquarters for one of the state's largest agri-businesses (Farmers' Cooperative) and is situated on the thriving Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to many employers in Crete, Milford, Friend and Seward -- and just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 10 minutes to Interstate 80.  Yet all the living advantages of a quiet, safe village.

However, one challenge facing Dorchester is available housing.  We often hear from many readers who say they would like to move to Dorchester, if only homes were available.

Today we are showcasing the latest Dorchester home available right now. If you're ready to call Dorchester home, we encourage you to take a look and make a timely offer (again, things are moving fast in this market).  Make Dorchester your home and enjoy a great small-town way of life.

HOME FOR RENT: Saline County Nebraska Buy, Sell or Trade is reporting that a three bedroom, one bath, home with at one stall garage is now available for rent in Dorchester.  The house is approximately 1,100 sq feet.  Interior completely repainted with new living room carpeting. Bedroom floors are oak with tile in kitchen.  Rent includes lawn care and drive snow removal; washer and dryer included. $800 per month.  Private message Michael Drake for more details or to schedule a showing.  (No phone number or e-mail was made available.)

Get Your Last-Minute Christmas Gifts In Dorchester This Year

With Christmas nearing, why not consider buying gift certificates from City Slickers, East Side Bar & Grill, Donna's Hair Creations, The Well, Barley Specialties, Farmers Cooperative gas station, Tysers Repair and Auto Sales, and other Dorchester area businesses?

As one reader e-mailed us recently, it just makes sense to buy Christmas gifts locally instead of purchasing "the cheap, imported Chinese junk that adds to America's trade deficit."

Or maybe you just want to avoid the crowds and online scams (and ID theft).

Other ideas include visiting Hedgehog and Hubbies Antique Shop on the west edge of town. The antique shop has cool vintage items. Maybe open a savings account for a grandchild at First State Bank.  Or help a local farmer and buy a corn burning stove.

Finally, during this time of giving and goodwill towards others, don't forget the importance of contributing to area philanthropies and charitable groups, or volunteering to help with local projects and organizations. 

Consider sending some well-deserved funds to the Dorchester Community Foundation Fund. As we've reported for some time now, the Foundation's next project on the list is a splash pad for the Dorchester City Park. Your donations to the the Foundation are tax deductible. Make checks payable to: Dorchester Community Foundation Fund, c/o Peg Bergmeyer, 101 Washington, Dorchester, NE 68343.

Also, think about sending a donation to the Dorchester Methodist Church.  Or perhaps the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department.  Or volunteer to see how you can improve the appearance of Dorchester's Main Street and the downtown business area.

The Times welcomes your ideas on how to make the Christmas season just a little better in our community.

Dorchester's Jan Stehlik Passes At 85

Former Dorchester Public School art instructor, community leader, quilt maker, historian, and longtime Dorchester area resident Jeanette Lou (Jan) Stehlik passed away Dec. 14, 2018 at Tabitha in Crete after a struggle with dementia. Jan was born on March 15, 1933 in Beatrice, Nebraska to Louis E. Selk and Bertha (Arnold) Selk. Her father was a lumberyard manager in Plymouth, Neb. at the time of her birth. He moved to the Sack Lumber Co. in Dorchester, and Jan met her future husband, Leonard Stehlik, at the Dorchester elementary school. Jan’s father managed several lumberyards and Jan also attended school in Meade, Kan., Lincoln Northeast High School, and graduated from Chadron High School in 1951.

Jan attended the University of Nebraska for two years before she was reacquainted with Leonard when she was on the State 4-H Camp Staff and Leonard was a 4-H leader. Their first date was to the Saline County Fair. Leonard and Jan were married on August 22, 1954 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. They lived at Camp Carson in Colorado, where Leonard was stationed in the Army. After Leonard was discharged, they settled at the farm where Leonard was born north of Dorchester, where they lived together for 60 years and raised four sons and a daughter.

In 1971, Jan completed her UNL education and began teaching Art at the Dorchester Public School the following year. She retired 25 years later. Jan was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Crete, Nebraska. She served as the church secretary, taught education classes, sewed Lutheran World Relief quilts, and provided the church with many beautiful banners. She was the State Women’s Chairman of the Nebraska Farm Bureau and wrote “The View from the Kitchen Window” for a Farm Bureau publication. She also wrote “The Country Quilter” column for The Crete News and broadcast “What’s Doing in Dorchester” for KTAP radio. In 1986 she was selected as the Outstanding Nebraska 4-H Alumni. She was very involved in the Dorchester community, serving on the Centennial History Committee, Community Improvement Committee, and was the Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce. She was a member of the Jolly Doers Extension Club for over 60 years and was a member of the Seward Co. Historical Society.

Jan was affectionately known as “The Quilt Lady” and sewed for her family as well as quilts she used in quilt lectures and classes. She won many quilt contests and her work was pictured in quilt magazines and books. She published a book featuring her original designs and presented a research paper to the American Quilt Study Group in 1990. She was a member of the Blue Valley Quilt Guild, the Lincoln Quilters Guild, and the Nebraska State Quilt Guild where she was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018.

Jan is survived by her children: Dan of Curtis, NE; Brent (Janice) of Lincoln, NE; Eric of Dorchester, NE; and Bonnie (Mark) Wagner of Petersburg, NE; 6 grandchildren: Melissa Partaka (Chris) of Capac, MI; Adam Stehlik of Omaha, NE; Tyler (Niki) Stehlik of Kramer, NE; Aaron (Bethany) Stehlik of Oxford, MA; Eleanor Wagner of Spalding, NE; and John Wagner of Petersburg, NE; brother Howard Lou Selk of Kenmore, WA; sister Arlene Lou Souders of Wilmington, NC; sisters-in-law Velma Hansen of Dorchester and Rose Marie Heckman of Mill Valley, CA; nieces, nephews, family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Leonard; son Linden; sisters-in-law Letitia Selk and Darlene (Gene) Easley; and brothers-in-law Jim Souders and Wayne Hansen. Memorials can be made to Lutheran World Relief and the Dorchester Community Foundation.

Visitation will be at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete on Tuesday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Crete on Wednesday, 10:30 a.m to 11:15 a.m.  Online condolences for the Stehlik family may be left here.

Both DHS Basketball Teams Get Big Wins Before Christmas Break

The Dorchester Longhorn basketball teams snagged victories on Thursday night, on their home court, just as both squads head into the holiday break.

The boys picked up their first win of the young season by beating the Osceola Bulldogs by a tally of 40-33.  The contest was highlighted by freshman TJ Belcher's 16 points.

The box score from the boys game follows:

DORCHESTER 40, OSCEOLA 33

Osceola 12 6 6 9 -- 33 
Dorchester 7 13 8 12 -- 40 

Osceola - C. Watts 4, Klein 7, Rathjen 2, Boden 3, H. Watts 4, Girard 9, Novak 4.
Dorchester - Belcher 16, Zahourek 4, Vielma 3, Tyser 8, Hansen 1, Cochnar 8.

Earlier on Thursday night, the Lady Longhorns also beat their Osceola opponents by a count of 51-10.  The win marked the DHS girls' third victory of the season. (Correction: Our original version of this story stated that this was only the second victory for the DHS girls in the 2018-19 campaign.)

DHS was led by by Jaycee Zoubek and Abbey Plouzek, both of whom were in double figures.

DORCHESTER 51, OSCEOLA 10

Osceola 3 5 0 2 -- 10 
Dorchester 17 22 10 2 -- 51 

Osceola - Johnston 2, Hahn 3, Theis 2, Raythen 1, Kumpf 2.
Dorchester - Zahourek 8, A. Zoubek 4, J. Zoubek 20, Novak 6, Plouzek 13.

Both the girls and boys varsity teams will be off until Dec. 27 and 28, when they will participate in the Weeping Water Holiday Tournament at Weeping Water High School in Otoe County.

Saline County Sheriff’s Office Cracking Down Hard On Drunk Drivers

KWBE in Beatrice is reporting that the Saline County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in the nationwide "You Drink and Drive, You Lose" crackdown, which begins Friday and ends Jan. 1.

According to the radio station, during this period, increased patrols will be made possible due to a grant through the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

This grant allows deputies to work extra time in order to increase enforcement of traffic laws, and specifically, increase patrol for DUI enforcement.

The extra time worked by deputies will then be paid by the NDOT. Saline County Deputy Matt Jonas says the motivation behind this campaign is simple.

The sheriff’s department will be taking a zero-tolerance stance on all alcohol-related violations. At the conclusion of the campaign, it is hoped that the DUI rate will decrease and, in turn, decrease the number of injuries caused by accidents.

Looking Back: The Record-Setting Christmas Blizzard Of 2009

The blizzard of Christmas 2009 was one for the record books. 

Not even Bing Crosby would have been too happy.

Climatologists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln confirm that 2009's snowfall was the most snow ever recorded in the Dorchester area on Christmas.

The Lincoln Journal Star reported that December 2009 was the Lincoln area's snowiest December ever, with a total 23 inches on average.

Half of that came on Christmas day.

The Christmas blizzard of 2009 brought an estimated 11 inches of snow to Dorchester. 

The news wires were abuzz, reporting that most eastern Nebraska residents had lost electricity during the storm. 

Highways were closed and rural residents were literally trapped in their homes as country roads were drifted shut.

The following pictures were taken in Dorchester in late December 2009, sent to us by Times readers. (Click on the pictures for a better view.)

While many of you want a white Christmas, let's hope we don't see a repeat of Christmas 2009 in the near future.

See the Dorchester forecast here.  For now, it appears we are in the clear as the area forecast calls for clear skies and mild temps on Dec. 25.

Random Thoughts: DHS Wrestlers Shine Bright Early In New Season

What you are about to read are the collective random thoughts and observations of the Dorchester Times staff, posted by our own Village Dweller.  Some of the musings will be thought-provoking and enlightening; others will have less intellectual depth than the kiddie pool.

In any case, if you read something you agree with, let us know in the comments box. Disagree? Do the same. Have a random thought you want published, send it to dorchester.times@gmail.com.

Enjoy.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Dorchester's Wrestling Team Has Strong Showing in Season's First Tournament: While the news media do not cover high school wrestling the way they do basketball, it's important that our readers be kept in the loop on all student athletics.  We appreciate an update from a loyal reader who let us know that the Dorchester varsity wrestling team featured several top finishers in their first tournament of the season at Meridian High School. Cole Johnson captured second place, Gabe Lara took third place, and Jose Real brought home place.  Nice going, Longhorn grapplers!

Dorchester is Very Affordable, Says Site: The website Livability.com presents interesting analysis of Dorchester's Census data and other relevant information.  According to the site, the median income in Dorchester is $45,417 while the median home value is $87,800, which speaks well of Dorchester's affordability.  The median age in Dorchester is 36 (Remember, this statistic would be distorted if we have lots of babies in town, or lots of really old people.).  And about 55 percent of the community is male.  Fewer than 13 percent of Dorchester's population are veterans of the military.

Sen. Ebke Looks for Scapegoats: Last week, outgoing state Sen. Laura Ebke took to Facebook, writing, "Last year at this time, I was under attack by the Nebraska Republican Party for showing 'It's a Wonderful Life' for constituents in four local theaters. That was the beginning of the end of my term in office."  To be fair, senator, you abandoning the GOP shortly after campaigning as a "Reagan Republican," followed by your vote against the death penalty, was the beginning of the end.  That said, thank you for your service.  It's a brutal job and not worth the paltry $12,000 a year.  

DHS Basketball Teams Try To Regain Footing After Tough Week

The Dorchester boys and girls basketball team ran into some imposing roadblocks late last week.

The Lady Longhorns faced powerhouse Exeter-Milligan last Thursday at home.  Trailing 23-5 at the half, DHS never could get the contest close again.  The DHS girls fell 49-23.  

The box score follows:

EXETER-MILLIGAN 49, DORCHESTER 23

Exeter-Milligan	15	7	13	14	--	49
Dorchester	3	2	10	8	--	23

Exeter-Milligan -- Jansky 25, White 9, Turrubiates 6, Geiger 5, Papik 4.

Dorchester -- Plouzek 12, J. Zoubek 6, A. Zoubek 4, Novak 1.

The Lady Longhorns had a closer contest Friday night, but still managed to let BDS slip by in a road game, despite all five starters scoring.  The final score was BDS 42, DHS 32, as the Dorchester girls have now slipped to 1-3 on the season.

BDS 42, DORCHESTER 32

Dorchester	8	8	14	2	--	32
BDS	12	6	14	10	--	42

Dorchester--Zahourek 9, A. Zoubek 6, J. Zoubek 8, Novak 1, Plouzek 8.

BDS--Kleinschmidt 4, Kamler 16, Bolte 2, Silva 2, Alfs 7, Noel 2, Hudson 9.

***

Meanwhile, the Dorchester boys were overwhelmed by a talented crew from consolidated BDS, which outscored the Longhorns 60-20 over four periods.

BDS 60, DORCHESTER 20

Dorchester	6	6	4	4	--	20
BDS	10	15	20	15	--	60

Dorchester--Belcher 5, Zahourek 1, Tyser 6, Hansen 5, Cochnar 3.

BDS--L. Schroeder 11, Kamler 3, Grote 4, Kleinschmidt 3, E. Schroeder 10, Weber 13, Ardissono 9, Noel 5, Schlegel 2.

Both the Dorchester boys and girls will try to get back on the winning track this week, traveling to Harvard on Tuesday (Dec. 11) and hosting Osceola on Thursday (Dec. 13).

Support the 'Horns!

DHS Girls Pick Up First Win Of New Basketball Season

On Monday evening, the Dorchester girls basketball team picked up their first victory of the new season by comfortably beating College View Academy of Lincoln.

The Lady Longhorns were led by Zoubek cousins and Abbey Plouzek, all of whom scored in double figures.

The DHS girls are now 1-1 on the season.  

Below is the box score from Monday's contest.

DORCHESTER 51, COLLEGE VIEW 38

College View 2 16 11 9 -- 38 
Dorchester 15 10 15 11 -- 51 

College View -- Lopez 9, Dovald 6, Follett 2, Boulais 7, Puok 8, Martindale 6.
Dorchester -- Zahourek 3, A. Zoubek 17, J. Zoubek 14, Novak 6, Plouzek 11.

Meanwhile, the DHS boys team fell short against the College View squad, despite strong performances from Kohl Tyser and Jonathan Vielma, who both scored in double figures.

The boys are now 0-2 on the young season.

COLLEGE VIEW 49, DORCHESTER 39

College View 14 13 13 9 -- 49
Dorchester 10 13 8 8 -- 39

College View -- Bock 19, Sigowa 9, Klein 7, Lee 5, Fortney 9.
Dorchester -- Zahourek 4, Vielma 10, Brummett 6, Tyser 11, Cochnar 8.

The girls will be back in action tomorrow (Thursday), and both the girls and boys will have games on Friday night.  For a look at upcoming contests, see the DPS activities calendar.

Erma Gausman Passes At 101

Former Dorchester resident Erma (Essman, Vorderstrasse) Gausman, 101 passed away Wednesday, November 21, 2018 at Nye Legacy in Fremont. Erma was born July 19, 1917 in rural Jefferson County, NE to John and Isabelle (Schwalm) Essman.

Erma attended school in Swanton, NE and was a member of the Swanton High School class of 1935. Later she attended school in Lincoln. She worked as a nanny for the Coryell family and as a cashier at the Bomber Plant in Omaha. On January 15, 1949 she married Lawrence Vorderstrasse in Lincoln. The couple lived on the family farm near Hebron. Erma loved farm life, gardening, and raising chickens. She had a big heart and always put other people first.

Erma helped Lawrence on the farm until his death in August of 1969. She continued living on the farm and working at Thayer County Memorial Hospital until 1977.

On March 2, 1977 she married Clarence Gausman at Grace Lutheran Church in Hebron. They lived in Dorchester, and Erma continued to work at the Friend Hospital and Manor until 2008. Clarence passed away November 1995.

During her Dorchester years, Erma was active in the Dorchester Methodist Church and Ladies Group in Dorchester. In 2008 Erma moved to Heartland Park in Seward, NE. She loved being with people and meeting for a nightly viewing of the Wheel of Fortune. She moved to Nye Legacy in Fremont in 2017 to be closer to her family and receive additional care.

A memorial service was held Monday, November 26 at the Dorchester United Methodist Church in Dorchester,  A private interment will be held at Chester Cemetery in Chester at a later date.

DHS Basketball Teams Fall In Season Openers

The Dorchester High School basketball teams tipped off for the first time of their 2018-19 campaigns on Friday night, playing host to the traveling Meridian Mustangs.  (UPDATE: Beatrice radio station KWBE covered the action. Click here for the story.)

Both teams fell in the season opener before the home crowd that packed the DHS gym.

The boys, without a key player in Ridge Hoffman, who had a medical emergency earlier in the week, team kept the Mustangs in check during the first period. 

But Meridian opened the floodgates early in the second, accumulating a 27-8 lead at the half.  

The final was 45-19.  Here's the box score from the boys contest:

MERIDIAN 45, DORCHESTER 19

Meridian    8  19  11  7  -- 45
Dorchester 5  3  4  7  -- 19

Meridian--Kujath 7, VanWestern 8, Garcia 10, Schafer 2, Klipp 18.
Dorchester--Zahourek 8, Vielma 8, Tyser 2, Hansen 1

Meanwhile, the Lady Longhorns, coming off last season's 10-14 campaign, were hoping to get off to a fast start.  But with only seven players out for the team, depth will be an issue.

In Friday's game, Meridian pulled away in the third period by dumping in 14 points.  

The final was 32-22, Mustangs.  Here's the box score from the girls contest.

MERIDIAN 32, DORCHESTER 22

Meridian 9 7 14 2 -- 32
Dorchester 3 5 6 8 -- 22

Meridian--Sobotka 11, Pribyl 10, Ellis 4, Most 3, Dimas 2, Kort 2.
Dorchester--Zahourek 3, Zoubek 10, Novak 2, Plouzek 7.

Dwayne Nelsen Passes At 90

The Times learned recently of the passing of longtime Dorchester-area resident Dwayne E. Nelsen, who passed away Nov. 17, 2018, at Tabitha Care Center in Crete. Born July 17, 1928, in rural Friend to Riis and Meta (Hansen) Nelsen.

Dwayne attended country school and was a 1946 graduate of Friend Public School. During his youth, he worked at Frankforter's Grocery, Moore's Funeral Home and Klippenstein Implement. United in marriage to “Jerri” Geraldene Parks on March 26, 1949, the Nelsons enjoyed dancing and spending time with friends. Dwayne worked for Standard Oil in Paxton and in 1959 returned to Dorchester to farm.

He and Jerri lived several years in Seward while employed by Agri-Alliance and the Nebraska Department of Roads. He was a member of Dorchester United Methodist Church, Friend Congregational Church and Friend Country Club.   He's survived by daughter, Sandi Witkowicz, Lincoln, son (daughter-in-law), Doug (Shari Beckler) Nelsen, Dorchester, nine grandchildren (spouses), Paul Dwayne Muff & Melissa McCoy, Lincoln, William Douglas (Stacey) Muff, Springfield, Scott James (Kristin) Muff, Sunrise Beach, MO, Christopher Michael (Melinda) Witkowicz, Fremont, CA, Shawny (Tommy) Hicks, Burwell, Dusty (Laura) Nelsen, Ringling, OK, Lacey (Matthew) Rinlee, Mansfield, TX, Caley Nelsen, Kearney, Tana (Bart) Miller, Pleasanton, 13 great-grandchildren, Jacob, Tate, Jackson, Scotty & Paul Muff, Gracyn & Cort Hicks, Emmersen & Dempsy Nelsen, Cutter, Lucchese & Thayer Rinlee, & Trigg Miller. 

Dwayne was preceded in death by parents, “Jerri”, son-in-law, Gene Witkowicz, siblings (spouses), Melvin Nelsen, Fern (R.D.) Flanigan, Louelma (Earl) Ferguson, Ardis (Lloyd) Noeller, Virgil (Bonnie) Nelsen, Jim (Marion) Nelsen, sister-in-law (brother-in-law), Donna (Robert) Schweitzer.

His funeral service was held Nov. 23 at the Friend Congregational Church with the interment at the Dorchester Cemetery.  Memorials to Alzheimer's Association or in care of the family for future designation. Condolences can be left at http://www.laubermoore.com/obituary/dwayne-nelsen.

NEWS ROUND-UP: DHS Athletes Honored For Fall Performance

DHS Athletes Honored For Fall Sports: Several Dorchester athletes were recently honored for their effort this fall.  In volleyball, DHS junior Abby Plouzek was named first team all-conference. In football, several Longhorns earned all-district recognition.  They are:

• First team defense/defensive back - Cole Johnson
• Second team defense/defensive line- Kohl Tyser
• Second team defense/defensive back - Collyn Brummett
• Second team offense/end - Carson Zahourek
• Second team offense/center - Ridge Hoffman
• Honorable mention offense/kicker - Jonathan Vielma

Renew Dorchester Student Essay Deadline Is This Saturday.  We are reminded that Renew Dorchester – a new, non-profit charity – invites Dorchester Public School students (grades 3-12) to take part in the first-ever “Dorchester: Vision 2030” essay contest.  The organization wants to hear from Dorchester students regarding how they hope to see Dorchester improve and grow during the next dozen years, by the year 2030.  There are big cash prizes are available for the first-, second- and third-place finishers, with $650 being given away.  More details available at Renew Dorchester's Facebook page.  Essays are due no later than December 1, and may be submitted to any Renew Dorchester board member.

Dorchester Foundation Looks To Raise $15K For Matching Grant: The Dorchester Community Foundation Fund has been challenged with a 2-to-1 matching grant of $7,500. For the organization to maximize the value of this grant, Foundation leaders seek to raise $15,000 by Dec. 31 in order to generate a total of $22,500.  Currently, the Foundation is in the midst of a campaign to fund a new mini-water park, or what some call a large splash pad, in the Dorchester City Park. If you'd like to help the Foundation reach this goal, donations can be sent to Peg Bergmeyer, 101 Washington Ave., Dorchester, NE 68343. See the Foundation's Facebook page for more information.

Dorchester Basketball Tips Off This Friday Night: Dorchester girls and boys basketball seasons tip off this Friday, Nov. 30, in Dorchester.  The girls varsity squad will begin its 2018-19 campaign at 6 p.m. against rival Meridian, while the boys will play Meridian right after at 7:30 p.m.  The varsity wrestlers will start their season at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, in Friend at the Friend Tourney.

Pleasant Hill's Bob Mariska Passes At 99

Robert L. Mariska, (99 years old), of Crete, passed away on Nov. 20.  He was born on June 24, 1919 to William and Millie Mariska.

Bob proudly served in the army for 4.5 years during World War II as a staff sergeant. He was a member of the American Legion for over 75 years and Tabor Lodge 74, ZCBJ.  He lived in Pleasant Hill for 91 years. 

Bob married Leonore Fritz on May 24, 1942 and they were blessed with three sons: Neil, Brian and Jack.

Bob was the second-generation owner and operator of one of Pleasant Hill's most significant businesses.  He ran the garage started by his father, Bill Mariska, in 1923. It stood just south of the old schoolhouse facing Franklin street. The Mariska garage sold used cars, were the first to sell tractor tires in the area, and had working gas pumps from 1923 to 1976. The shop also sold radios, refrigerators and some of the first gas powered mowers starting in 1950. 

Bob in 2008 said the Mariska garage had the largest stock of Case parts for a hundred miles. Customers from Grand Island and Kearney were frequent, and one flew in to Pleasant Hill by landing his small plane in a field not far from the garage. 

See our 2008 story for more on Bob. 

Preceded in death by his parents, wife, and sons. Robert will be missed by daughters-in-law: Sharon Mariska of Lincoln and Shirley Mariska of Crete, grandsons: Chad Mariska (Amy) of Oklahoma and Darrin Mariska (Shauna) of Colorado, granddaughters: Denee Wehrs (Brian) of Lincoln and Tara Zuspan (Ryan) of Lincoln; as well as cousins and great-grandchildren.

Bob's funeral service was held at Kuncl Funeral Home on Saturday, November 24.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to the Legion Post 264 in Dorchester. Please visit www.kunclfh.com to leave your condolences.

Here Comes The Blizzard Of November 2018

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning from 2 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday for Dorchester and the southeastern Nebraska.  Up to 4 to 7 inches of snow are expected with wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

A blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout conditions, making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle.

The storm system is expected to move into our area early Sunday, but conditions will become worse when rain turns to snow. Temperatures are forecast to fall to around 27 degrees, and Sunday's high will be near 30.

The snow will initially be wet and heavy and could potentially stick to surfaces like roads, power lines or trees.  Due to the strong winds that will accompany this storm, power outages could be widespread.

According to experts, the worst of the weather will likely come before 1 p.m. Sunday.

Keep up to date with the latest forecast by clicking here.  See the Dorchester area radar here.

Developing...

Business Spotlight: Tyser Auto Sales

Occasionally, during slow news cycles, we try to shine a spotlight on Dorchester's area businesses.  

Today, we shine that light on a local business that brought back car and truck sales to Dorchester after a hiatus of many decades.

Tyser Auto Sales of Dorchester has been in our area for several years now.  According to the business' website, they are committed to delivering exceptional service.  

Located on main street in Dorchester, Tyser Auto Sales serves much of the surrounding area.

The business also relies on a heavy Internet presence, offering weekly specials on used cars and trucks.  

Once you find the vehicle that interests you, you can even schedule a test drive online.

Located at 702 Washington Ave. in Dorchester, Tyser Auto Sales can be contacted by phone at (402) 946-4321 or via e-mail at info@tyserautosales.com.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., or Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Happy Thanksgiving From The Dorchester Times

Several years ago, the Times received an e-mail that we felt compelled to share with all of our readers.  

Today, it is reprinted here with the permission of the author. 

From all the staff of the Times, Happy Thanksgiving!

*****

Sweet home Dorchester! Oh sweet Nebraska! On this Thanksgiving we have so many things to be grateful for.

You never really know how amazing something or someplace or someone is until you no longer have it or them in your daily life.  I lived away from here for several years and during that time I reminded myself almost daily of the things and the people I missed.

On this Thanksgiving, I will once again take time to give thanks for those things that make life worth living. They are:

1.) The bountiful fall harvest.

2.) My small town and the feeling of community that we're all in this together.

3.) A peaceful main street I can walk with no fear of violence.

4.) Mom 'n pop businesses and no big box stores.

5.) Our Dorchester school and the wonderful students and teachers.

6.) Small town chatter, even the gossip.

7.) Farmers, hunters, people of commerce, and our community elders (the producers and providers).

8.) Not being honked at in your car or truck when you're at the one and only red light.

9.) The smells of "home," including a wood burning stove or fireplace, and the crisp Midwest air this time of year.

10.) Pumpkin pie, homemade jelly and all the great local baking.

This is a good start.  Oh yes, I am also thankful for my great-grandparents who came to Dorchester to start their families.  It is because of them that Dorchester is my home.

Sincerely,

Name Withheld

Mother, Wife and Farmer