Dorchester To Consider Revised Redevelopment Plan For Co-Op Properties

On Monday, Jan. 3, at 6:30 p.m., the planning commission for the Village of Dorchester will meet to consider revisions to a previously approved redevelopment project that will utilize tax increment financing (TIF). 

The meeting, which will be held in the Dorchester Community Building, is open to the public. (Unfortunately, the notice has not been published electronically on the village website.)

The area of town under consideration contains property owned by the Farmers' Cooperative, according to the Village's public notice. (See graphic above.) This includes parcels that contain the filling station, co-op parking lot, co-op office building, and grain silos.

For readers who may be unaware, TIF is utilized to help make new development and property upgrades financially viable, beginning with the city government declaring an area as substandard, blighted, and in need of redevelopment. 

Under the state's TIF rules, the city government must hold a public hearing and prepare a redevelopment plan, which must show, for example, the boundaries of the redevelopment project area, proposed land uses, population, land and building intensities, changes in zoning, and traffic flow.

Dorchester has used TIF previously for the housing development area in the northwest section of town.

According to the public notice, all interested parties will be afforded an opportunity to express their views at the Jan. 3 meeting regarding the revised redevelopment plan.

A map of the redevelopment area and a copy of the cost-benefit analysis are available at Village Hall.

Developing...

Remember The Christmas Blizzard Of 2009?

Christmas weekend 2021 will see mostly sunny skies in Dorchester, with temperatures in the lower to mid-50s. 

Weather-wise, this Christmas season will be remembered for the December tornado that hit our area last week, causing significant damage in town and in the surrounding countryside.

But 12 years ago, on Dec. 26, 2009, it was a different story. The Dorchester Times reported:

This is first time in two generations that blizzard conditions have ravaged Dorchester on Christmas Day. Power has been knocked out in several homes in the area countryside and nearby communities, such as Milford. ... The Nebraska State Patrol has closed westbound Interstate 80 from Omaha to Lincoln and both directions of I-80 between Lincoln and Grand Island due to dangerous travel conditions. Highway 6 is also closed and county roads are not being maintained. ... Snow and blowing snow with wind gusts as high as 41 mph have virtually closed many secondary highways in the central and eastern parts of the state. ... US Highway 6 is closed at Friend due to several jackknifed semis in town blocking all lanes. US Highway 81 has also been closed north and south about a mile south of Geneva due to an accident. Highway 74 in Saline County from Highway 15 west to the Saline-Fillmore county line is closed due to blowing, drifting snow. Travel is not allowed on this highway and is not encouraged on any county roads and highways within the county.

Yes, it was that bad. The Christmas blizzard of 2009 was one for the record books. 

Not even Bing Crosby would have been too happy.

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.

Climatologists at UNL 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 area's snowiest December ever, with a total 23 inches on average. Half of that came on Christmas day.

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

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.)

Tom and Jerry Party At Dorchester Fire Hall, Dec. 26

Looking for something to do over the holiday break?

Dorchester has several options. For adults, one of them will be at the Dorchester Fire Hall.

Consider joining your friends at the Dorchester Fire Hall for Tom and Jerry's on Sunday, Dec. 26, when members of the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Dept. will host a Tom and Jerry party.

The event will kick off at 9 a.m. and continue until around 1 p.m. 

According to our in-depth and extensive research, the Tom and Jerry -- now known as a traditional Christmas time cocktail -- was devised by sportswriter Pierce Egan in the 1820s. The eggnog-brandy-rum drink is a reference in Egan's book "Life in London." 

To publicize the book, Egan introduced a variation of eggnog by adding ½ fl. oz. of brandy, calling it a "Tom and Jerry."  

The additional fortification helped popularize the drink.

To try Tom and Jerry's at your home this holiday season, here is our recipe:

TOM AND JERRY INGREDIENTS

Boiling water
1 tbsp Tom And Jerry Batter*
1 oz Cognac
1 oz Dark rum
Whole milk, hot

Garnish: Nutmeg, clove and allspice
Glass: Coffee mug or Tom and Jerry cup

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*Tom And Jerry Batter

INGREDIENTS:
12 Eggs, separated
1 tsp Cream of tartar
2 lb Sugar
2 oz Dark Jamaican-style rum
1 tsp Vanilla extract (optional)

PREPARATION:
In a nonreactive bowl, whip the egg whites with the cream of tartar until they form stiff peaks.  In a separate bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar, rum and vanilla (if using). When the mixture is completely liquid, fold it into the whites.

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How to make the Tom and Jerry Cocktail

Rinse a small coffee mug (or, indeed, a white ceramic Tom & Jerry cup) with boiling water to warm it and discard the water. Add the batter, cognac and rum to the cup and fill with hot milk. Garnish with a mixture of 2 parts freshly grated nutmeg to 1 part each ground clove and ground allspice.

Lillian Rezabek Passes At 96

Lillian L. Rezabek passed away peacefully at the age of 96 at the Wilber Care Center on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2021, with her family by her side. She was a resident of the Care Center for the past eight years. 

Lillian was born on Aug. 28, 1925, on a farm southwest of Wilber, the youngest of four daughters born to Raymond and Agnes (Kohel) Vlcek. She attended school at District 93 and graduated from Wilber High School with the class of 1942.

Following graduation, Lillian worked at the Crete Creamery for about a year and then left for Midland, Texas where her future husband Donald C. Rezabek was serving in the Army Air Corps. They were married on Oct. 20, 1943. They returned home briefly to celebrate their wedding with a dance at Tabor Hall on Dec. 7, 1943. When Donald was discharged from the service in 1946, they moved to a farm south of Dorchester. On Feb. 4, 1947, they welcomed twins, Raymond Gene and Beverly Jean. 

When the twins were in high school, Lillian went to work at Formfit in Crete and later worked at Walkers in Seward until she retired. Lillian enjoyed working on the farm taking care of both the livestock and her large garden. Gardening was a tradition she continued after they moved to Dorchester in 1971. She was known for her beautiful flowers and lawn. 

Donald and Lillian enjoyed their second home in Republican City where they spent many weekends fishing with their boat at Harlan County Lake, often times with friends and family. They especially enjoyed taking their grandchildren on these fishing trips. They were also fond of taking vacations, traveling to Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska and South Padre Island. They enjoyed trips to Arizona in the winter and Colorado in the summer. 

Lillian loved her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Christmas dinners of duck, dumplings and sauerkraut, along with kolache and vdolky, were her specialty and always appreciated by the entire family. 

Lillian spent many hours embroidering, creating the most beautiful pillowcases, tablecloths and quilts which she shared with family. Her work was exquisite and no one could match her skills. Each piece will always be a treasured remembrance of her. 

Lillian was a long time member of August-Vanek Auxiliary Unit 264, and a member of Tabor Lodge #74 of Dorchester.

Mourning Lillian’s loss are son, Raymond and wife, Connie Rezabek of Dorchester and daughter, Beverly and husband, John Walker of Dorchester. Grandchildren Daniel and Christina Rezabek of Lincoln, Rachel and David Biar of Dorchester, Sarah and Michael Fuchs of Arlington, Lori and Jeff Herz of Lincoln, Donald Sladek of Seward, and Rebecca Severn of Rapid City, South Dakota. Great Grandchildren Aaron, Erica and Isaiah Fuchs, Tyler Sladek, Chelsea (Kevin) Volkmer, and Lily and Macy Severn. Great-Great Grandchildren Ila and Sylas Sladek and Madelyn Volkmer. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Donald C. Rezabek, who passed away in July of 2004, her parents Raymond and Agnes Vlcek, sisters and brothers-in-law Irene and Ernest Fictum, Adeline and Ervin Brozovsky, and Norman and Floyd Timm, and son-in-law Jerry Sladek. 

Funeral Service will be held Saturday Dec. 18, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.  Visitation is set for Friday Dec. 17, 2021 from 5-7 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. The family requests memorials in lieu of flowers to be designated at a later date.  Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.

Dust Bowl Days Returning? Major Damage From December Wind

The Dust Bowl was the name given to the drought-stricken Southern Plains region of the United States, which suffered severe dust storms during a dry period in the 1930s. As high winds and choking dust swept the region from Texas to Nebraska, people and livestock were killed and crops failed across the entire region.

There has always been a threat of those days returning, due in part to the loss of grassland, wooded areas, and more tilled acres in our windy part of the country. 

On Wednesday, Dec. 15, the Dorchester area and all of central and southeastern Nebraska got a taste of the Dust Bowl once again as a powerful storm system blew through the Great Plains and Midwest, combining with unusually warm temperatures to close highways and prompt numerous tornado warnings.

In Dorchester and the surrounding area, there are reports of lost buildings, roof damage, downed trees, and other wind-related damage. Dorchester and other communities have lost power.

At the Lincoln Airport, a 93 mph wind gust was recorded. A tornado was spotted north of Crete.

High wind warnings and a blowing dust advisory remain in effect until later tonight for our area.

The photo above shows a weather satellite-captured image of the storm system over the central U.S. on Wednesday afternoon shortly before sunset. Severe thunderstorms can be seen over eastern Kansas and eastern Nebraska, but the brown clouds over central and southwestern Kansas are actually dust being picked up by extreme winds. When this satellite image was captured, winds across this portion of Kansas were howling between 55 mph and 100 mph. 

Developing.....

Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration At Museum, Dec. 18

Get ready for an old-fashioned Christmas celebration.

The Saline County Historical Society will host a free holiday event Saturday, Dec. 18 at the Saline County Museum in Dorchester.

The event will take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

And now for the big news: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there.

There will be hot chocolate, snacks, and Christmas activities for all ages.

Everyone is invited. 

Don't miss this special event at one of Nebraska's best kept secrets.

Dorchester's Jack Bruha Passes At 87

Jack LeRoy Bruha was born July 13, 1934 in Omaha to Frank and Creola “Sidy” (Niehardt) Bruha and passed away on Sunday, Dec. 5 at his home in Dorchester at the age of 87.

As a young boy, Jack attended a country school south of the home place and later graduated from Dorchester High School with the class of 1952.  He enlisted into the US Army in 1953 and was honorably discharged in 1955.  Jack was united in marriage to Ann Jelinek on Jan. 4, 1958, in Wahoo, and to this union five boys were born:  John, Jim, Tim, Don, Brian. Together they lived in the Dorchester area their entire lives, ultimately moving into 1012 Fulton Ave. in the early 1970s. 

Jack had various jobs over the years, but mainly was a heavy equipment operator for NL Cole Construction and JJ Westhoff Construction, retiring at the age of 83. Over the years, Jack loved watching his children and grandchildren’s athletic events and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and going on hunting and fishing trips with his friends and family. He was a member of the Dorchester American Legion and the Dorchester Fire Department.

Jack is survived by his wife, Ann, Dorchester; sons and daughters-in-law, John and Rochelle Bruha, Dorchester, Jim and Tracy Bruha, Wickenburg, Ariz., Tim Bruha and Diane Bruha, Crete, Don and Tricia Bruha, Lincoln; grandchildren, Shelena and Dan Neeman, Dorchester, Brandon Bruha and special friend, Cassidy Olson, also of Dorchester, Alexis and Andrew Gothier, Laurel, Neb., Bailey and David Smaus, Yuma, Ariz., Ethan and Seth Bruha, both of Lincoln; five great-grandchildren, including one more on the way; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Jelinek, Lincoln, Pat Bruha, Milford; several nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. 

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, son, Brian, in 1988, a brother, Dale Bruha, a sister, Carol Hrdlicka, three brothers-in-law, Carl and Lawrence Jelinek and Bob Hrdlicka.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Friend, with Fr. Leo Seiker officiating.  A rosary will be recited at 10 a.m., also on Saturday.  The family suggests casual attire.  A luncheon will be provided after the mass in the parish hall, followed by a graveside committal at Dorchester Cemetery.  

Visitation is Friday, Dec. 10, at Lauber Funeral Home, Friend, from 1-8 p.m. with family receiving relatives and friends from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.  Pallbearers are:  Ethan Bruha, Seth Bruha, Andrew Gothier, Brandon Bruha, David Smaus, Danny Neeman, and Jimmy Jelinek. Honorary Pallbearers are:  Alexis Gothier, Bailey Smaus, Harold Axline, Greg Tyser, and Shelena Neeman. Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation.   

WWI Helmet Shows Sacrifice Of Dorchester's Dr. Charles Arnold

Stories of Dorchester's wartime heroes continue to spread across Nebraska and the nation. (An appropriate topic on the 80th anniversary of Pearl Harbor.)

We've all heard of the fate of Pvt. Charley Havlat in World War II. But have you heard of Charles Arnold and his efforts in World War I?

The U.S. Army helmet you see here belonged to Dr. Charles H. Arnold. It's a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of Dorchester citizens that came before us.

It also is a reminder of our community's sometimes-forgotten links to British ancestry.

Dr. Arnold was a native of Dorchester and a DHS graduate. He received his medical degree in 1913. Later, he enlisted with the British Expeditionary Forces during the first world war and served with the Royal Army Medical Corps on the front lines in France and Belgium.

Arnold was dressing a wounded soldier near Aveluy Wood, France, when a German sniper fired a bullet through his helmet. Although Arnold’s scalp was injured, he finished dressing the soldier’s wound before being attended to himself.

He was released to the American Expeditionary Force in January 1919 and discharged the following month with the rank of major in the Medical Corps Reserve. After his military service, Dr. Arnold returned to his Lincoln practice, where he continued to gain honors and prominence.

He continued his studies at the University of Vienna in 1930 and 1933. When World War II began, he re-enlisted and was sent to England, where he served as consulting surgeon to more than 50 military hospitals in Europe.

Dr. Arnold would go on to have an active medical career, spanning 53 years. He served as a surgical staff member and lecturer on surgery at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Lincoln; a surgical staff member at Bryan Memorial Hospital in Lincoln; surgeon for Traveler’s Insurance Company; special lecturer in the surgical department at Creighton University School of Medicine; and surgical consultant and honorary professor of surgery at West China Union University in China, and at the Chinese Army Medical Center at Shanghai.

The Nebraska State Historical Society has a wonderful collection of materials that belonged to Dr. Charles Arnold and his family. Click here to learn more about Dr. Arnold's service and career.

Reports: Omicron In Saline County

(UPDATE 12/3: Dorchester Public School will host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic Thursday, Dec. 9, from 12-3 p.m. This event is open to the public. Primary doses and booster shots of all three vaccines will be available. All children must be accompanied by a parent. No appointments are necessary. To reduce chances of potential side effects, the Times suggests checking out this site.)

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is here -- in Nebraska, in Saline County.

The Public Health Solutions District -- which includes Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline, and Thayer counties -- announced today there are six cases of the COVID-19 strain in its five-county area.

Sources have told this blog the cases are definitely in Saline County given the ties to the COVID-positive person who traveled to Nigeria. That person returned home Nov. 23 and started experiencing coronavirus symptoms the next day, according to online reports.

The other five cases were likely linked to the original case through household contact. Of those five, only one person was vaccinated, and that person had not yet gotten a booster dose of the vaccine, other reports say.

All of the infected people have had "mild-to-moderate" symptoms for the time being, but it is too early to tell how the virus will ultimately impact the infected individuals, experts say.

Kim Showalter, director for Public Health Solutions, said it is important to get vaccinated to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, including the omicron variant. 

The omicron variant was first identified last month in South Africa and since has been detected in dozens of countries. Nebraska is the sixth state to report a case. (Here's what the CDC is saying about the variant.)

Gov. Pete Ricketts has said there are no plans for any additional directed health measures due to the discovery of the latest variant in Nebraska.

New cases of COVID-19 have surged in Thayer, Saline and Jefferson counties over the past two weeks, with rates of 64 or more cases per 10,000 residents.

As of Thursday, there were 553 people hospitalized statewide for COVID-19, including 168 who were in intensive care.

DHS Girls Basketball Building On Already-Strong Foundation

Dorchester's Lady Longhorn basketball team is entering a new season with big expectations.

Last year, DHS went 13-9 last season. The Lady Longhorns want to improve on that foundation in the 2021-22 campaign.

Under now-veteran Coach Brandon Bruha, the Dorchester girls will rely on its freshman talent, which was shining not that long ago in elementary school YMCA ball. 

This young talent will need to step up immediately to ensure success on the court, insiders say.

The Lady Longhorns will tip off the new season at 6 p.m. this Thursday, Dec. 2 at Meridian. (Update 11/29: Game times have changed for the high school basketball games Thursday at Meridian. Boys varsity will start at 6 p.m.; girls varsity at 7:30 p.m.)

This year's schedule for the Orange and Black Attack:

Dec. 2 - @ Meridian   

Dec. 9 - @ Exeter-Miligan

Dec. 10 - BDS 

Dec. 14 - Harvard 

Dec. 16 - @ Osceola  

Dec. 21 - Cedar Bluffs

Dec. 30 - @ Lewiston

Jan. 4 - @ College View Academy 

Jan. 6 - @ Sterling

Jan. 11 - @ Friend 

Jan. 13 - East Butler 

Jan. 14 - High Plains Community   

Jan. 18 - @ Cross County 

Jan. 20 - Shelby-Rising City 

Jan. 22-28 - (To Be Determined) CRC Tournament @ York

Feb. 1 - @ Parkview Christian  

Feb. 3 - Nebraska Lutheran 

Feb. 4 - @ Giltner  

Feb. 8 - Hampton

Feb. 11 - McCool Junction

Feb. 14, 15, 17 - Subdistricts (Location TBD)

DHS Boys Basketball Team Will Showcase Young Guns

Those who say Dorchester's male student-athletes aren't hungry to compete have not met this season's Longhorn boys basketball team.

So can the Longhorns hang tough this year?

Our sources say yes, thanks to young players and emerging talent.

The freshmen and sophomores on this year's team will need to provide big-time leadership if the DHS squad is to improve on its 5-17 mark from last season.

The new season tips off this Thursday, Dec. 2 at Meridian. (The junior high school teams begin their seasons at home this Tuesday, Nov. 30 against Friend.)

Representing the Dorchester School and community this year will be 10 Longhorns, pictured above. (Photo is by Sharon Axline.)

Here's the schedule for the 2021-22 DHS boys basketball team:

Dec. 2 - @ Meridian   

Dec. 10 - BDS   

Dec. 14 - Harvard  

Dec. 16 - @ Osceola

Dec. 21 - Cedar Bluffs 

Dec. 30 - @ Lewiston  

Jan. 4 - @ College View Academy

Jan. 6 - @ Sterling

Jan. 11 - @ Friend 

Jan. 13 - East Butler  

Jan. 14 - High Plains Community 

Jan. 18 - @ Cross County 

Jan. 20 - Shelby-Rising City 

Jan. 22-28 - (To Be Determined) CRC Tournament @ York

Jan. 31 - College View Academy 

Feb. 3 - Nebraska Lutheran  

Feb. 4 - @ Giltner 

Feb. 8 - Hampton  

Feb. 11 - McCool Junction (Parents Night)

Feb. 18 - @ Exeter-Milligan 

Feb. 21, 22, 24 - Subdistricts (Location TBD)

Ed Kotas Passes At 79

Edward John Kotas, 79, of Western, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 25 at his home. He was born on December 30, 1941, to Edward and Marie (Novy) Kotas at the homestead in central Saline County, the youngest of five children. 

On August 9, 1969, Ed was united in marriage at Zion Lutheran Church to Linda Bartels. They were married for 52 years. From this union are two sons who they raised on the family farm. He was a lifelong farmer who grew crops for the cattle he raised, he did custom windrow and baling and did livestock trucking. In addition to farming, he sold feed off the farm under the name Kotas & Sons.  

Ed was a member of Dorchester American Legion, and a lifelong member of Saline Center Lodge 389. He was survived by his wife Linda, his two sons Greg (Amy) Kotas of Loup City and Darin (Cindy) Kotas of Western, Grandchildren Kelsey (Tate) Ziebart, Michelle, Katelyn, Kristin, Megan, and Amber Kotas, Jakob Piontkowski, April Rademacher, and Abbie Obermiller. Great-Grandkids Sawyer Obermiller and Tilly Ziebart. Sisters Shirley Znamenacek, Marlene Stehlik, and sister in laws Ardell (Richard) Endorf, Diane (Alan) Krupicka, and Arlene (Charlie) Filipi, and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at Saline Center. Casual attire is requested. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4 – 8 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber. For the full obituary, click here.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Dorchester Actors, Athletes Honored; Win A Turkey/Ham

DHS One-Act Play Takes Home Honors: Congratulations to the talented DHS one-act play cast and crew (as well as coaches Hrdlicka and Jirsa) on their third place finish at Crossroads Conference play production. Six dedicated Dorchester actors received "outstanding acting" awards.

Accolades for DHS Athletes: Underclassman Baylor Behrens has earned honorable mention all-conference in volleyball, while the following DHS football players were recognized for their hard work on the gridiron: Garrett Tachovksy (first-team running back); Andy Drake (second-team QB); Marcos Gonzalez (second team running back and second team kicker); Ben Nohavec (second team defensive line); Jacob Cerny (second team defensive back); Jason Paz (honorable mention center); Brett Ladely (honorable mention end); and Jose Tellez (honorable mention defensive back).

Win a Turkey or Ham at the Legion: The Dorchester American Legion Hall is open every Monday evening, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., to the public for refreshments and food. But this Monday, Nov. 22, there's extra incentive to show up. Turkey Bingo will be on tap -- and winners can win a turkey or ham for the holiday feast. All ages welcome.

Dorchester Superintendent Recognized by Statewide Organization: Dorchester School Superintendent Daryl Schrunk was recognized recently at the Nebraska Association of School Administrators conference for his 20-year membership with the association. Mr. Schrunk has distinguished himself statewide as a recognized K-12 leader and we are proud to have his talent leading Dorchester's youth.

Time to Get Your COVID-19 Shot: For those who've held out on getting a COVID-19 shot, your wake-up call is here: "Time to get the damn shot." Is the shot 100% effective? Nope. But at this point, the evidence is overwhelming that more than 90% of those who die from this China-produced virus are unvaccinated. The unvaccinated (or those who don't have natural immunity from a COVID infection) have become a major strain on the health care system, while also prolonging the mask mandates that most of us hate. Ten months of data show unvaccinated individuals are nearly four times more likely to contract COVID, nearly 10 times more likely to be hospitalized, and nearly 14 times more likely to die. Hesitancy is fine; stupidity is not. Get the shot.

Acreage For Sale West Of Dorchester

Given the ongoing housing shortage in Dorchester, the Times staff wants to keep our readers aware of all opportunities to purchase a home in the Dorchester area and school district.

In the past 24 hours, we have spotted a nice acreage for sale west of Dorchester at the intersections of Highways 6 and 15. The actual address is 405 State Highway 15, Dorchester.

This beauty has lots of land (over three acres) and has highly-sought-after paved access.

The realtor says this about the property: "Three-acre property boasting a great location and intimate country feel. This lovely traditional two-story home reflects a family tradition of over 35 years with cherished memories of exquisite sunrises, sunrises, sunsets and school bus pick-ups. Now make this family tradition your family tradition. This early 20th century home has received the benefit of major remodeling bringing it into the modern era. However, this property is being sold in as is. This is a jewel you don't want to miss!"

For more details, click here.

'Pure Nebraska' Set To Spotlight Tabor Hall

Most readers are familiar with 10/11 News' "Pure Nebraska" -- a popular TV show that spotlights some of rural Nebraska's most unique and noteworthy attractions and residents. 

Hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Jon Vanderford and his wife Taryn, 10/11's Pure Nebraska airs at 9 a.m. weekdays and on Sundays at 7:30 a.m. Its segments can also be watched online.

This week, Vanderford was in the Dorchester area, filming an upcoming feature on Tabor Hall, just south of our village. 

It's still unknown when the segment will air, but readers can check the Pure Nebraska page frequently to watch for the Tabor Hall showcase.

Of course, this blog has for years called attention to Tabor Hall and its cultural and historical significance. Read our post on Tabor Hall's 105th anniversary right here.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Suspicious Activity In Rural Dorchester; Rezabek-Biar Honored

Rezabek-Biar Honored by State of Nebraska: Rural Dorchester's Rachel Rezabek-Biar has been recognized with the State of Nebraska's Excellence in Leadership Award for her work as assistant state treasurer/director of the NEST 529 College Savings Plans. A 1990 DHS graduate and longtime public servant, Rachel says, "I have been blessed to spend the majority of my career helping families save for education. I am grateful for those I have had the opportunity to work with and look forward to continuing our efforts in providing quality NEST 529 Savings Plans."

Suspicious Activity Reported Northeast of Dorchester: There are reports from area residents that around 5 p.m. Wednesday evening, Nov. 17, three suspicious individuals were spotted roughly two miles east of and 1.5 miles north of Dorchester, walking near the intersection of County Roads 1600 and D. The individuals made their way through a field, carrying backpacks. The Saline County Sheriff's Department was called to the area and conducted a search, but it's unknown if any illegal activity or the individuals were found. We've said it before and we'll say it again: These are strange times, regardless of whether you live in town or country. There is a segment of our society that holds no standards and wants more chaos and fewer norms and rules. Protect yourself and your family. (For those who aren't comfortable with firearms, we suggest the HERO® gun -- a non-lethal, self-defense product.)

City Slickers to Provide Meal to Needy Family: For Thanksgiving, Dorchester's City Slickers Restaurant will provide a Thanksgiving meal to a family in need, according to the establishment's social media account. If you know of a family in need of assistance, send City Slickers a private message via Facebook.

DHS One-Act Play Set For Saturday Night

It's time for dessert and drama at Dorchester High School.

The DHS one-act play will take place at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, Nov. 20. 

The production, titled "Ten Ways to Survive the End of the World," sounds like a chapter from the COVID-19 era. The Times has been informed this will be a remarkable show that the students have worked hard to perfect.

Doors open 6:30 p.m. for dessert. (And there will be a wide variety of sweets for every sweet tooth.)

Admission is $5 per person.

Novak, Duchek, Parks Are Top Dorchester Names For Longevity

Today, we offer our readers one of our more unusual, morbidly fascinating stories we have ever published.

Updated data from the U.S. Census bureau show if your family name is Novak, Duchek or Parks -- and you live in the Dorchester area -- odds are good you will outlive your peers with other common surnames.

The data, compiled by the website city-data.com, show that among the most common names of deceased individuals who lived in Dorchester, those with the last name of Novak lived to an average age of 89.4 years.  

Not too far behind were those with the last name of Duchek, living to an average age of 88.2 years.  

Those with the surname of Parks came in third in Dorchester's longevity competition, passing at an average age of 87.7 years.

Also noteworthy were the Weber and Nerud families, both of whom are living to nearly 85 years on average.

Among the most common names of deceased individuals who had resided in Dorchester, those named Sehnert were at the bottom of the top ten list, living to an average of 73.7 years. The Stehliks came in at No. 9, living to an average of 76.1, while the Bruhas came in at No. 8, living to an average age of 78.4.

Other common names appearing on Dorchester's deceased list include Mariska (80.2 years) and Krivohlavek (83.7 years).

One final note: If your name is on the list, don't blame us; we're just the messenger.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Farmers Co-op Expanding Dorchester Headquarters (Again)

Farmers Cooperative Expands Dorchester Offices (Again): In 2014, Dorchester-based Farmers Cooperative -- one of Nebraska's (and the nation's) largest agribusinesses -- conducted a massive expansion of its office headquarters. Now the co-op's office footprint is expanding once again, this time growing to the north -- occupying the considerable space at 607 Franklin Ave. where a house stood up until a few years ago. The expansion -- along with the added silos and street paving in recent years -- shows the co-op's commitment to Dorchester, while adding to the village's property tax base.

Saline County a Leader in COVID-19 Vax Rate: At last check, 88% of our area residents who are 65 and older have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. According to Public Health Solutions -- the public health office that serves Saline, Fillmore, Thayer, Jefferson and Gage counties -- only Lancaster and Douglas counties boast a higher vaccination rate. Meanwhile, our area's vaccination rates are 61% for those ages 50-64; 50% for those 30-49; and 35% for those 16-29.

County's COVID-19 Cases Remain High: Saline County is still seeing a high rate of COVID-19 transmission, according to the CDC. Over the past week, the county has seen 38 cases, equally a case rate of 267 per 100,000 people (the standard for comparing counties nationally). The case rate is supposed to be around 50 before it's considered low risk for transmission.

New Tower Should Improve Dorchester's Cell Phone Coverage: Verizon and other communication service customers in Dorchester suffer from spotty (at best) cell service. But that reception may be improved soon. Late last month, the Dorchester Planning Commission (Justin Sand, Faith Nerud, John Yeackley, Nancy Tellez, and Brent Zoubek) recommended that the Dorchester village board approve a conditional use permit for a new wireless telecommunications tower that would serve the community and surrounding area. We are keeping our fingers crossed!

Squirrel Causes Dorchester Blackout: According to an email sent to the Times, a squirrel met it's match when it stepped on an electrical transformer last Sunday, Nov. 7. (For the sake of our audience, we are not publishing the photo of the squirrel's remains. Yes, that was also emailed to us.) The critter's misfortune left residents in the west side of the community without power for a while. But electricity crews from the City of Crete, which provides utility service to the Village of Dorchester, made their way quickly down Highway 33 to restore the flow of electrons.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Foundation's New Project, Veterans' Day Program

Foundation Will Raise Funds for Covered Bleachers: As previously reported, the Dorchester Community Foundation Fund is hosting a fundraiser dinner on Saturday, Nov. 13. (Get the details here.) According to information on the Foundation's social media, funds raised by the organization will be used to purchase news covered bleachers for Dorchester's ball fields. Since the removal of the wooden grandstand overlooking the baseball diamond at Nerud field in the early 1980s, Dorchester has had to share the same bleachers for football and baseball games -- moving them every season. This is a great new project and should be enthusiastically supported by community members.

Village Board Has Open Seat: The Village of Dorchester is in search of a civic-minded public servant who wants to help lead the community. Due to the departure of a town resident who is moving to the countryside, a vacancy exists on the village board. Any town resident who is a qualified registered voter may apply to fill the remaining three-year term, which ends Dec. 2, 2024. (The new board member will need to be approved by the full village board.) If you are interested, drop off or mail a letter and resume to the Village Clerk, 701 Washington Ave., PO Box 287, Dorchester, NE 68343.

Veterans' Day Program at Dorchester School: Dorchester Public School will host a community Veterans' Day programs on Thursday, Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. in the main gym. Breakfast will be served for all local veterans and their spouse. The program will begin at 10 a.m.

Wrestling Volunteers Needed for Nov. 16: Dorchester's annual junior high wrestling tournament will be Tuesday, Nov. 16. Experienced volunteers are needed to help with scoring and to get the wrestlers to the right place before their matches. Call 402-946-2781 if you're willing to help.

Dorchester UMC Spaghetti Feed, Nov. 14

On Sunday, Nov. 14 at the Dorchester United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women (UMW) will host an autumn spaghetti feed. Serving begins at 11 a.m. -- and everyone is invited!

This is a free-will offering!

On the day's menu will be the following: Homemade meat sauce, meatless sauce and Alfredo sauce (gluten-free pasta will also be available), and relishes.

Also, there will be cupcakes for dessert

Attendees may dine in person or utilize the drive-up service. The UMW volunteers will take call-in orders from Wednesday, Nov. 10 through Saturday, Nov. 13 (by 3 p.m.). Call Rhonda at 402-910-1186.

Support this good cause.

Dorchester Leader Tom Cerny Passes At 63

Longtime Dorchester leader Tom Cerny has passed away at age 63 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Cerny served our community as a well-liked, respected member of the town board. He also led the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department and was a key figure of the Dorchester American Legion.

Cerny moved to Lincoln in 2019 due to the need to be near his health care providers. 

His obituary follows:

Thomas William Cerny, 63, of Lincoln, formerly Dorchester, passed away on October 26 at home. He was born on July 14, 1958 in Albion, Nebraska to Stanley and Marie Cerny and grew up in Fremont. He married Janet L. Christensen on July 31, 1976.  

During his lifetime, Thomas lived in Nurnberg Germany, Fort Riley, Kansas, Dorchester, and Lincoln. He served his country for over 38 years in the military and earned his rank as chief warrant officer 5. His memberships include the American Legion, lifetime member of the VFW and DAV, Dorchester Foundation member, past Fire chief of the Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department.   

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, step-father: Otto Brazda, sisters: Marie Matson and Jane Francis, brothers: Stanley Jr. and Michael. 

He is survived by his wife of 45 years:  Janet (Christensen) Cerny, sons: Bret Allen (Amanda Heusinkvelt), Shane Michael (Suzi Werts).  Grandsons: Ethan James Bowlin, Colton Trace Cerny, Carter Allen Cerny, Blake Daniel Cerny, granddaughter:  Aubrie Grace Cerny.  Sister: Patricia A. (Randy) Johnson.  Sister in law: Elaine (Michael) Hickey. Brothers: John Charles (Julie) Cerny, Bernard James (Kay) Cerny, Steven Anthony (Cathy) Cerny, Daniel Patrick (Carol) Cerny. Brother-in-law: Warren (Rose Marie) Matson. Numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and his military family.  

Visitation will be on Monday, Nov. 1 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Services will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the Dorchester United Methodist Church. Memorials have been designated to the following: American Legion Post 264, VFW Post 10648, DAV Post 7, the Dorchester Foundation, and Dorchester United Methodist Church.  Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. 

Surveys Show It's Time For Rural America To Capitalize On Current Trends

An interesting piece recently ran at the International Business Times. It points out that since the 1950s, Americans living in rural counties have had a higher rate of poverty than those living in and around large cities. 

"Poverty in rural America was then exacerbated in the 1970s as big box stores moved in, often leading to the shuttering of once-thriving local retail businesses," the article notes. Making matters worse was China being granted entrance into the World Trade Organization (WTO) in the 1990s by then-President Bill Clinton -- a move that eventually killed manufacturing jobs in many in small towns and rural areas.

That was then. This is now.

After more than 70 years of being shunned, rural America is now cherished once again as people are moving to rural areas in ever-increasing numbers. While this trend was emerging even before the pandemic, the urban riots, government-imposed lockdowns, and violent crime that exploded in 2020 (and has continued in most cities) has accelerated the rural movement.

Large corporations seem, for now, bent on continued investment in urban America. But we question how much longer that can last.

According to Paulsen, a Sioux Falls-based marketing agency, more Americans want the sense of community, affordability, and the values found in rural areas. A survey conducted by Paulsen shows that when telecommuting is an option, two-thirds of Americans say that they would consider moving to a rural home or a subdivision.

The Paulsen survey also interviewed those who had already recently moved to a rural area. The top reasons those folks gave for leaving large cities included the desire for: more land or space; fewer people; more home for less money; a safe environment with clean air and water; lower cost of living; no traffic; a different culture; and living in a place with different political affiliation. 

This moment brings a tremendous opportunity for Dorchester and other rural towns. But to capitalize on the current trends, our community must ensure the following for residents (and future residents):

• A reliable internet connection. (This is one of the biggest issues that some folks have with the rural migration.) 
  
  
• Welcoming community organizations and activities. (Groups need to actively reach out and invite new/existing residents to join and participate, not just expect them to show up.)
  
  
• Employment opportunities. (These need to be publicized.)
  
  
• Access to retail and shopping locations. (Dorchester has a geographical advantage.)

More than any other time, Americans feel they have mobility -- the freedom to live where they want. When the history books discuss the COVID-19 era, we predict the major theme will be the rapid decline of major cities and the simultaneous revitalization of rural areas.

To make the most of this moment, Dorchester must be ready.

NEWS ROUND-UP: DHS Volleyball Ready for Sub-Districts

DHS Volleyball Prepares for Sub-Districts: The young DHS volleyball team, now 6-19 on the season, is ready to compete in Class D1 sub-district play. The Lady Longhorns, who have won their last three of five contests, will travel to Heartland Community School on Monday and Tuesday, Oct 25 and 26, to face McCool Junction (4-22) and the winner of the Harvard vs. Heartland match. Root for the Orange and Black Attack!

Longhorns Conclude 2021 Football Season: The DHS football team concluded its season on Friday, Oct. 22 with a 54-15 loss to McCool Junction (also known as the "York annex"). Dorchester, hampered by the loss of three standout starters before the season even began, went 1-7. DHS is expected to bounce back next year, which will mark the fifth campaign of the modern era in DHS six-man football.

DHS One-Act Play Set for Nov. 20: "Ten Ways to Survive the End of the World." Sounds like a chapter from the COVID-19 era. Actually, it's the name of the production to be presented next month by the Dorchester one-act team. Stay tuned for details regarding this "dessert and drama" event, set for Saturday, Nov. 20. Meanwhile, the junior high play will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Here's Why Every Employer Should Have a Firearm: Tragedy struck Superior, Neb. yesterday when an evil nutcase killed two at the Agrex grain elevator with a handgun, and injured a third person. The killer -- who had been fired from the elevator earlier in the day -- was shot dead by a fellow employee who retrieved a shotgun from an office, thereby avoiding an even bigger nightmare. There's no way to keep guns (or knives or axes or swords or bombs) from evil or insane individuals; the only sensible solution is to ensure the innocent have means to defend themselves. This should be an obligation for employers across America.

OUR VIEW: Inflation Is Soaring! Thank Joe Biden and Jane Kleeb

Inflation is running hotter that it has in 30 years. While this is happening for many reasons -- federal money printing, government giveaways, lack of American workers, unprecedented supply shortages -- the most obvious factor is the price of energy.

Of course, this all started on Day 1 of the Biden administration, when the president declared war on U.S.-produced fossil fuels and rural economies that depend on energy production and transportation, like Dorchester's.

In the nine months since Old Joe first sat in his Oval Office recliner, gasoline prices here have spiked from $2.29 a gallon to around $3.10 today. And you haven't seen anything yet.

Never mind that Biden has had bigger issues to worry about -- problems like fighting COVID-19, fixing a broken southern border, not letting the Taliban regaining Afghanistan, curtailing China and North Korea and Iran, stopping cyberattacks on the nation's infrastructure. 

Forget that, he said. Let's screw up the one thing we have going for us right now: American energy independence.

The sad thing is, Joe Biden had help right here in Nebraska.

East Coast-transplant, far-left activist and lobbyist Jane Kleeb helped lead this charge to destroy American energy independence and U.S. jobs. (Yes, that's her full-time job -- and she's proud of it.) Despite the disaster she has helped create for Americans who need affordable energy, Kleeb is worshipped by the news media, even as she wears and uses fossil fuels every day and every hour. She's the essence of "American hypocrite."

Next time you're filling up -- trying to get to work or shuttle your family -- think about Joe Biden and Jane Kleeb. And be sure to mutter a few kind thoughts under your breath.