The Old Bell: Pride Of DPS Campus Since 1932

The Dorchester Public School's bell monument, now located prominently in front of the school building's main entrance, features the refurbished bell from the 1890 school building. 

How many of you know the story behind the bell?

For those old enough to remember, the old school bell was showcased as part of a 1932 brick monument, just east of the 1927 school building, which was demolished in the summer of 2008. The old bell monument was razed a few years earlier due to its weakened structure and safety concerns.

Thanks to a loyal reader, the Dorchester Times was sent a May 1932 DHS alumni newsletter, which helped us uncover a little more history behind the old monument and the school bell itself.

According to an Dorchester High School Alumni Pep Bulletin article written by W.R. Freidell (DHS Class of 1907), the bell was salvaged from "the wreckage of the old red brick school house" after that building was demolished in 1930. 

That's when the DHS Alumni Association asked DHS graduate Merion Mooberry (Class of 1916), a skilled architect, to design "an appropriate mounting for this bell." (Editor's note: The sketch below is from the May 1932 issue of the Bulletin.)

The original bell monument was unveiled at the fifth-annual DHS alumni banquet May 21, 1932. The "historic landmark and "grandsire of the campus" was presented to alumni by its builder, DHS graduate and contractor Thomas Grey Jr. 

The newsletter reports the bell was mounted in "a lovely designed, final resting place just east of the new high school." 

Following the alumni banquet, toasts were made "around the traditional old bell."

Tickets for the 1932 alumni banquet were reduced to 65 cents a plate, due to "Old Man Oppression" -- or the Great Depression, as we call it today. But attendees still received the "same big three-course dinner" per the order of Mrs. Panter, chair of the banquet and wife of the town doctor.

Following the monument dedication and banquet dinner, alumni were invited to visit the historian's exhibit entitled, "See Yourselves as Others Saw You on Your Graduation Night Years Ago."

LOOKING BACK: Joe Wagner's Mobil Station

The year is 1961. Your car needs an oil change or a mechanical fix. 

What do you do? 

Well, 64 years ago, you had several options in Dorchester. You could take your car to the new Farmers Co-op service station, or to one of two garages in town: Sehnert's Ford Garage -- or Joe Wagner's Mobil filling station and garage across the street.

A few years ago, Derek Filipi of Wilber (Joe's grandson) sent us this photograph of Wagner's. Click on the photo for a better view.

The filling station and garage operated at the present site of Barley's Specialties.  

After Wagner's went out of business, the building was sold to the Danielson family. In the 1980s, it was briefly home to Zabka's Phillips 66 station and convenience store.

Older residents will recall that during the 1950s, it was Arnold's Mobil, which was owned and operated by longtime resident Arnold Bobolz for several years.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Behrens, Elkins, Theis Headed to State Track and Field Meet

Three Lady Longhorns Headed to State: When the dust settled at this week's Class D-1 District Track Meet at Pawnee City, Dorchester High School found itself with three athletes qualifying for Nebraska's State High School Track and Field Championship Meet in Omaha later this month. Baylor Behrens qualified in the 100 and 300 meter hurdles; Bailey Theis qualified in shot put and discus; and Faith Elkins qualified in the 100 meter hurdles and 100 meter dash. Congrats to these student athletes for their hard work and standout performances. Check out the events schedule for the state track and field championships, which will be May 23-24 for Class D.

Behrens Sets New DHS Record: Congratulations goes to DHS senior Baylor Baylor Behrens for setting a new school record in the girls' 100 meter hurdles. Behrens' time was 16.57, enough to break the former record held by Neileen Filipi.

May 15 Deadline to Register for DHS Alumni Banquet: On Saturday evening, May 24, Dorchester alumni -- young and old and in-between -- will gather to recall the good times and celebrate the school that gave them their start. The 2025 Dorchester Alumni Banquet will be held at the DHS gym. Doors will open at 5 p.m. and the banquet will start at 6 p.m. RSVP to Jessica Tuttle by Thursday, May 15, by calling the school at (402) 946-2781. For those who'd like to carry on their conversations beyond the banquet, the Dorchester American Legion has traditionally been open after the banquet. City Slickers and East Side are also options.

Main Street Median Getting Irrigation: Dorchester's famous main street median (actually Washington Ave. median) is getting underground sprinklers. Work has been ongoing for the past week as old curbing is being removed and the underground tubing goes in. This follows last fall's main street resurfacing project.

DPS Has Elementary Teacher Opening: Dorchester Public School currently has a first grade opening for the 2025-2026 school year. Learn more here.

It's Official: DHS Class of 2025 Celebrates Graduation

 

 

The caps, tassles, gowns, and Kleenex were in full effect Saturday, May 10, at the Dorchester High School gymnasium. 

 

That's when graduation ceremonies were held for 13 Longhorn seniors and their friends and families.

 

Here are the members of DHS' Class of 2025 and their post-graduation plans as detailed by DPS social media:

• Baylor Behrens: Baylor is the daughter of Bob and Julie Behrens. After graduating, Baylor plans to attend UNL where she will major in animal science with the goal of becoming a veterinarian.
  
  
• Angelina Cornejo: Angelina is the daughter of Ashley Karst and Isrrael Cornejo. Angelina plans to attend Southeast Community College where she will major in radiology.
  
  
• Isabella Cornejo: Isabella is the daughter of Ashley Karst and Isrrael Cornejo. Isabella will attend Central Community College where she major in occupational therapy.
  
  
• Mackenzie Luzum: Mackenzie is the daughter of Kevin and Carrie Luzum. Mackenzie plans to attend Southeast Community College where she will major in business.
  
  
• Alisson Nunez: Alisson is the daughter of Angela Del Carmen Escobar. Alisson plans to continue learning English so that she can go to college for cosmetology or work as a translator/interpreter. Alisson will also volunteer at the Capital Humane Society.
  
  
• Joey Peacock: Joey is the son of Patrick and Noemi Peacock. Joey plans to attend the UNL where he will major in journalism.
  
  
• AyLynn Schwisow: AyLynn is the daughter of Jacqueline Gooding. AyLynn plans to attend Peru State College where she will major in criminal justice.
  
  
• Ariana Tellez: Ariana is the daughter of Miriam and Edwin Tellez. Ariana plans to attend Southeast Community College where she will major in physical therapy.
  
  
• Julian Tellez: Julian is the son of Angelica and Rene Tellez. Julian plans to attend Southeast Community College where he will work toward an associates degree in welding.
  
  
• Gabby Theis: Gabby is the daughter of Michael and Bethany Theis. Gabby is headed to Central Community College on a basketball scholarship. She plans to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree and then transfer to Oklahoma State to complete a bachelors in sports management and marketing.
  
  
• Owen Vyhnalek: Owen is the son of Steve and Sarah Vyhnalek. Owen will attend Concordia University on a football scholarship where he will major in agricultural science.
  
  
• Atley Zoubek: Atley is the daughter of Brent and Lindsey Zoubek. Atley will be attending the Entourage Institute of Beauty and Esthetics.

Our heartiest of congratulations to the accomplished Longhorns in the Class of 2025. The sky truly is the limit for all of you.

 

NEWS ROUND-UP: Museum Open House This Sunday

Museum Open House This Sunday, May 4: On Sunday, May 4, the Saline County Museum in south Dorchester will host its open house of the newly renovated Chapel Building. According to the Saline County Historical Society's social media, visitors can tour the 13 buildings on the museum campus, then enjoy a free bowl of homemade ice cream. There's no charge to visit the museum, but donations are accepted. Summer hours are 1-4 p.m. on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. 

Dorchester Track and Field Stars Set Records: In late April, DHS standout Bailey Theis broke the DHS shot put record with a distance of 43' 9". Theis, a junior, smashed the previous longstanding and impressive record of 41' 7" set by Karmen Lawver, who was present to see the feat. See DPS social media. Meanwhile, DPS eighth grader Kaitlyn Bolton recently broke the DPS junior high discus record from 1987 set by Janet Uher. Bolton's 102-feet throw beat the 38-year record by more than two feet. Congrats to these Lady Longhorns!

Community Garage Sales, June 6-7: The Dorchester Community Garage Sales will be June 6 and June 7, according to village officials. Other towns having garage sales during this time will be Friend, Exeter, and Fairmont. Contact the Dorchester Village office if you would like to be put on the list. Maps will be available the week of June 2.

Dump Site Now Open: Now through Aug. 31, the Dorchester dump site is now open. Hours are Mondays and Wednesdays 3-7 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m-5 p.m. Branches, leaves, grass clippings, and garden waste are accepted. Recycling is also available at the site.

Acreage For Sale On West Edge Of Dorchester

 

 

Dorchester's real estate market remains strong despite the fact that easy, cheap money -- following years of federal money printing and massive government spending -- are coming to a close. Interest rates will continue to remain relatively high due to the uncontrollable debt unleashed during the COVID-19 years and foreign nations shedding U.S. treasuries.

While homes in large cities and rural properties have become unaffordable for the average buyer, Dorchester looks even more appealing now to most folks. Consider what our community has to offer:

• STREET IMPROVEMENTS: Village leaders have paved more streets in recent months and more street improvements are planned.
  
  
• POTENTIAL FOR MORE BUSINESSES: Due to its strategic location and available commercial buildings, many believe Dorchester will see an increase in more small businesses over the next two to 10 years.
  
  
• TOP-NOTCH SCHOOL: A newer K-12 school with smaller class sizes and some of the state's best educators. This means individualized attention for your child.

• A SAFE AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY: With an upgraded water and sewer system, and a surplus of funding at Village Hall.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable living costs with lower property taxes compared to surrounding school districts.

• KEY BUSINESSES AND PRIME LOCATION: Headquarters for one of the nation's largest agri-businesses (Farmers Cooperative) and situated on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to employers in Crete, Milford, Friend, and Seward. Just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 12 minutes to I-80. Yet all the advantages of a small, close-knit community.

Here's a Dorchester home and acreage that just hit the market:

1413 County Road 1400: Charming country living on the edge of town! This updated 1.5-story home sits on 3.5 acres and features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, a beautifully remodeled kitchen, wood and carpet flooring, and a brand-new HVAC system. The property offers everything you need for a rural lifestyle — an detached single-car garage, a livestock building, a large shop with a concrete floor, and fenced-in pasture ready for animals. Situated on a blacktop road on the northwest edge of Dorchester, it’s just two blocks from the school — offering both convenience and privacy. Acreage like this doesn’t come around often. Don’t miss your chance to make it yours! View the listing.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Dorchester's Fajita Fiesta, April 26

Fajita Fiesta, April 26: Get ready for a fun time in Dorchester on Saturday, April 28. That's when the Dorchester Community Foundation will host its Fajita Feed from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. The event will take place at the Dorchester Community Building and Legion Hall. You can count on great food, drinks, and conversation with friends. Dine in or take out by calling (402) 381-7789. This is a free-will donation event, so please give generously.

Workshop This Saturday at Museum: The Saline County Historical Museum will host "Save Your Life, One Story at a Time" workshop on Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m. Dana Tramba -- an author, teacher, and speaker from Edmond, Oklahoma -- will be the keynote speaker. Cost is $10.

Hydrant Flushing This Week: The village hydrants will be flushed the week of April 21-25 from 7 a.m to 3 p.m. Village staff says chlorine will be added while flushing, so there may be chlorine smell.

Times Turns 18 Years Old: Eighteen years ago this month, the Dorchester Times made its debut. Back in April 2007, we wrote: "Welcome to the Dorchester Times. This site is dedicated to our town, Dorchester, Nebraska. While we relish our proud past, we also enjoy the blessings of today and eagerly look forward to the future." Now, 17 years later, the Dorchester blog has gathered an estimated 3.75 million page views. Not bad for a community of 600 residents. Not bad at all.

School Year Wind-Down: For Dorchester High School seniors, the end of the road is in sight. For other students, summer vacation is the light at the end of the tunnel. Here's a look at what remains for the DPS school year:

• May 9 - Last day of school for seniors 
• May 10 - Graduation
• May 21 - Last day of school for pre-schoolers
• May 22 - Last day of school for K-11 (class is out at 11:30 a.m.)
  

News Channel Nebraska Spotlights Axline: In case you missed it, Dorchester's Sharon "Mimi" Axline was recently named recipient of the Above and Beyond Award by the Nebraska State Activities Association. The award celebrates "the incredible individuals who make a difference in Nebraska's schools and communities." News Channel Nebraska covered the news. Read the online story.

Happy Easter From The Times

The staff of the Dorchester Times wishes all our readers and area residents a happy Easter. 

May you and your families enjoy together the blessings and forgiveness bestowed upon each of us and our community.

Take time today to remember the reason for this special day. 

“He is not here; he has risen!” - Luke 24:6

Looking Back: Community Lessons From 100 Years Ago

Some of the best life lessons are learned from those who came decades -- or centuries -- before us. Their words can remind us of common knowledge that has been lost as modern life becomes more "sophisticated."

The editors of the Dorchester Times recently stumbled across a rare piece of local history: a palm leaf fan given to customers of Citizens State Bank in Dorchester during the 1920s. 

On one side of the fan is a poem titled “Boost Dorchester.” On the reverse, “Fourteen Points of Community Progress” under this headline: Boost Your Town. These pointers drive home the wisdom of doing business in your hometown to help it grow and to help your neighbors prosper.

While a century has passed since this fan was printed and distributed, the wisdom it carries is more relevant than ever. We have reprinted the 14 points below. 

---

1. Are you helping our Home Town and Community?
The wealth of our citizens is the capital of our Community. Its prosperity depends upon business. Money deposited in Banks in big cities or invested in other towns, takes capital away to build up other communities at the loss of all in our own Community.

2. Money spent away from home won’t pay our Home laborers, or teachers' salaries, or build school buildings, or provide other Community needs.

3. If a Community is worth living in, it is worth trading in.
Money spent away from home never returns to make the Home Town prosperous.

4. The business men are counted upon to keep the town progressing.
Help them by doing business with them. Our Town can be no better or bigger than its business.

5. It’s the solid worth of Home-spent money and co-operation that will make our Town bigger and better in every way.

6. Our children will not live in a “dead” town.
Home-spent money keeps the town growing and our boys and girls at home.

7. It is the money spent in our Home Town that gives our property greater value and protects it.

8. Our Town depends upon the money spent in it by all the citizens of the Community for its growth and prosperity.

9. Who wants to live in a “dead” town?
The merchants, the Banks and professional men are important in the life of our Town. Do business with them and help keep our Town growing.

10. The rate of our taxation depends on the wealth of our Community.
Increase this wealth and reduce taxation by building up our Home Town and Community.

11. You like to live in a prosperous town.
Prosperity, like charity, begins at home. Every dollar spent out of town is a check against our town’s prosperity. Trade at home.

12. Dollars spent at Home return to the spender.
Dollars spent at Home mean better Government, better protection, better Schools, better Churches and better Service, and better Homes — more and better Business — a better town to live in.

13. Money invested in Blue Sky enterprises in distant towns and cities in unproved undertakings robs our Community
for all time of needed working capital for our Home Town and our Community.

14. Actions speak louder than words.
Let us build in a spirit of neighborly interest — from a genuine desire to co-operate — banishing selfishness, and developing instead a Spirit of Community Brotherhood.

---

These words from the 1920s are applicable in 2025. They remind us that Dorchester's future depends on the support, investment, and spirit of those who call it home.

Thanks to all who are leading and supporting efforts to boost Dorchester today. You know who you are.

Drought Continues; Now Covers Nearly All Nebraska

Nearly all of Nebraska is currently experiencing some form of drought. This includes Saline County, which has just been moved to the moderate drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Keep in mind this is occurring at what is traditionally a wet season for the Cornhusker State. Earlier this week, it was reported that Nebraska's topsoil moisture is rated at 72% short-to-very short and subsoil moisture is 79% short-to-very short.

Meanwhile, a report from the University of Nebraska shows groundwater levels continue to decline in parts of the state following several years of on-going drought. 

Due to increased irrigation use and lack of rainfall, the Nebraska Statewide Groundwater-Level Report -- which looks at nearly 5,000 irrigation wells -- show 61% of the state's wells showed declines with an average statewide drop of 0.52 feet in 2024.

Fortunately, it appears moisture is on the way. This Sunday -- Easter Sunday -- our weather models show a 95% chance of rain. The Times combines several different forecast platforms on behalf of our readers. Sunday will see increasing winds with periods of rain and a thunderstorm; chilly; storms could bring damaging winds, large hail, and even a tornado.

Next Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will also bring reasonable chances for rain.

Our models show multiple chances for rain the first week of May, as well. Beyond that, the Old Farmer's Almanac predicts a generally warm and wet spring for Nebraska. May is forecast to have above-normal temperatures and rainfall across the southern half of Nebraska.

Home For Sale: 706 Stephens Ave.

Dorchester's real estate market remains strong. This despite the fact that easy, cheap money -- following years of federal money printing and massive government spending -- are coming to a close. Interest rates will continue to remain relatively high due to the uncontrollable debt unleashed during the COVID-19 years and foreign nations shedding U.S. treasuries.

While homes in large cities and rural properties have become unaffordable for the average buyer, Dorchester looks even more appealing now to most folks. Consider what our community has to offer:

• STREET IMPROVEMENTS: Village leaders have paved more streets in recent months and more street improvements are planned.
  
  
• POTENTIAL FOR MORE BUSINESSES: Due to its strategic location and available commercial buildings, many believe Dorchester will see an increase in more small businesses over the next two to 10 years.
  
  
• TOP-NOTCH SCHOOL: A newer K-12 school with smaller class sizes and some of the state's best educators. This means individualized attention for your child.

• A SAFE AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY: With an upgraded water and sewer system, and a surplus of funding at Village Hall.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable living costs with lower property taxes compared to surrounding school districts.

• KEY BUSINESSES AND PRIME LOCATION: Headquarters for one of the nation's largest agri-businesses (Farmers Cooperative) and situated on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to employers in Crete, Milford, Friend, and Seward. Just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 12 minutes to I-80. Yet all the advantages of a small, close-knit community.

Here's a Dorchester home that just hit the market:

706 Stephens Ave.: Affordable ranch-style home with full basement! This lovely home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, first-floor laundry and large family room in the basement, and much more. Located on a large lot with fenced backyard. All appliances are included. View the listing.

NEWS ROUND-UP: DVFD Burns Home To Make Room For New Construction

(Photo Credit: Sharon Axline)

DVFD Burns Dilapidated Home Near School: On Saturday morning, April 12, the volunteers of the Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department conducted real-world training with a controlled burn of a vacant home at 605 W 9th St. It was the former home of longtime residents Rev. Roger and Marilyn Wolfe. Local photographer Sharon Axline captured images of the exercise. We are told the vacant lot will be the site of a new housing project, which will add a much-needed residential unit to our community.

Sharon Axline Receives Statewide Honor: The Nebraska School Activities Association has honored Dorchester's Sharon “Mimi” Axline, bestowing her with the organizations Above and Beyond Award. winner. A longtime business owner and DPS volunteer, Axline was honored for "her unwavering support, kind spirit, and tireless dedication to Dorchester Public Schools." At the Times, we treasure Sharon's constant effort to capture sporting events and other major community events with her amazing photography skills. Read the NSAA's award notice.

New Superintendent Building Home in Dorchester: For years, this blog has encouraged employees of Dorchester Public School, Farmers Cooperative, and other employers in town to live in Dorchester. One obstacle to making that a more common occurrence has been the lack of available housing. So we are thrilled to see that DPS' next superintendent, Dr. Nick Mumm, and his family are constructing a new house in Dorchester. The home will be the third unit in Dorchester's Northview Estates development.

School Board, Village Board Meet This Week: For members of the public who wish to get more engaged with their local government, the Dorchester Village Board will conduct its monthly meeting on Monday, April 14, at Farmers Cooperative at 6:30 p.m. Last month, the board discussed housing development plans, among other items. Also, the DPS Board will meet Tuesday, April 15 at 5:30 p.m. in the school library.

Spring Clean-Up Begins: Dorchester's Community Spring Clean-up will be from Saturday, April 19 to April 26. For Dorchester residents only, the dump site will be open Monday through Friday from 1-7 p.m. and Saturday 9-5 p.m. Accepted items: furniture, televisions, carpet, mattresses, metal, appliances, batteries, wood without nails. (No pallets, please. Also, no wet paint or other hazardous waste. No tires, no lead acid batteries, and no trash.) The attendant on duty has authority to accept or reject items.

DHS Alumni Golf Tourney, May 31: The annual DHS Alumni Golf Tourney will be held Saturday, May 31 at the Friend Country Club. Check-in will begin at 8 a.m., with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Learn more on page 15 of the DPS April newsletter.

Dorchester Easter Egg Hunt Is April 19

Hey, kids! The Easter Bunny will soon be dropping by Dorchester.  It's time to practice your egg hunting skills.  

The Dorchester Easter Egg Hunt will take place 2 p.m. Saturday, April 19. 

And it's going to be a hopping good time. 

Here's where to report (we suggest getting there by at least 1:45 p.m.): 

• Ages 3 and under, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, and first- and second-graders meet at the football field, northwest of the school. 
• Third and fourth graders meet at the practice football field two blocks north of the school.
  

Make sure your children are part of this special holiday tradition in our community.

The hunt is sponsored by the Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.

All children are invited to help color the eggs on Friday evening, April 18, at 7 p.m. at the Dorchester Fire Hall. Prepared to get messy (don't wear nice clothes).

NEWS ROUND-UP: DHS Rocks State Journalism Contest (Again)

Dorchester Rocks State Journalism Contest (Again): Several DHS students competed in the recent Nebraska Journalism Education Association Winter High School Competition. From across the state, 775 entries were received from 32 schools. Dorchester was once again the smallest school represented. Andrea Pavlish received honorable mentions in Yearbook Theme Copy Writing and Yearbook Layout. Gabby Theis received excellent honors in Photo Artistic Illustration and Action Photography. Bailey Theis received an excellent in Action Photography. Joseph Peacock received an honorable mention in Yearbook Feature Writing. Ariana Tellez received an honorable mention in Photo Artistic Illustration. Emilia Perez received an honorable mention in Advertising. The team of Andrea Pavlish, Gabby Theis, and Joseph Peacock received a superior rating in Yearbook Theme Development. They are advised by Mrs. Sandy Severance.

Volunteer Fire and Rescue to Host Brisket Sandwich Meals, April 5: On Saturday, April 5, from  4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department will have brisket sandwich meals-to-go at the fire station. Drive-thru or pre-order. Free-will offering. Proceeds to support Dorchester Fire and Rescue expenses and equipment. Order by phone or text: 402-826-7346.

Spring Community Clean-Up: Dorchester community spring clean-up time is here. Roll-offs will be available at the dump site free of charge from April 19 though April 26.

Dump Site is Open: Dorchester's municipal dump site is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. 

DHS Students at State Speech Competition: DHS sent three Longhorns to the NSAA State Speech Competition in Kearney this week. Competing in the event were Ella Vyhnalek, who performed in the persuasive speech category, along with Owen Vyhnalek and Andrea Pavlish, who performed their comedy duet. 

Nominate a Teacher for 10/11 Award: As the school year starts to wind down, think about nominating a great teacher for 10/11's Golden Apple Award. The award is given each month of the school year to an educator having a outstanding impact in our local schools. You can nominate a K-12 teacher, administrator, or support staff member who deserves recognition for the positive effect they’ve had on you, your loved ones, or the community. Use this nomination form.

Food Truck Season Underway: It's time again for the food trucks to visit Main Street Dorchester. These vendors will be parked by the Legion Hall, we are told. Here's the schedule so far:

• KennaBells BBQ Monday, March 31 
• Billies Grilled Cheese, April 7 (10:30 to 2:00 and 4:30-7:30)
• Paradise Eats, April 22 (11:00 to 2:00)
• KennaBells BBQ, April 28

DHS' Brandon Bruha Named Coach Of The Year

Dorchester's Brandon Bruha has been named girls basketball coach of the year by Neb Preps, a media outlet focused on Nebraska high school sports.

The honor comes just a week after Coach Bruha and his wife, Cassidy, welcomed their first child. 

And it comes just two weeks after the Lady Longhorns concluded their magical 25-3 season, finishing as state runners-up in the Class D-2 championship held at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.

Bruha and assistant coach Brent Zoubek engineered the Dorchester girls program to its first state final game and only its second tournament appearance ever.

Bruha, a DHS graduate, has been coaching DHS girls basketball for 11 seasons.

Listen to Bruha's interviews with Neb Preps on Facebook or Twitter (X).

Looking Back: The Mills Of The Dorchester Area

Nowadays, the rivers and creeks of Saline County are used mostly for irrigation and fishing. But in days gone by, mills located on Turkey Creek (pictured above) and the west fork of the Big Blue River (pictured below) played an even more substantial role. In fact, Dorchester's first electricity was generated by a dam on Turkey Creek.

In Dorchester's early days, the milling industry was a staple of the area's economy. The 1880s saw rapid growth of the milling business on Turkey Creek, just south of town.Turkey Creek became recognized as "the Old Mill Stream," according to the Nebraska State Historical Society. 

Of the five mills on Turkey Creek in Saline County, two predominately served the Dorchester area. 

One was Amity Mill at Pleasant Hill. Constructed in 1870, the Amity Mill produced flour and meal, and later provided the first electricity for Dorchester. 

The other Dorchester-area mill, Lawrence Mill, was located near the current Gilbert Cemetery.

A trip to the nearest mill, with a team and wagon loaded with grain, occupied most of a farmer's day back in those early years -- and when the weather was pleasant, such a trip often provided a holiday for Saline County settlers. This allowed farm families to picnic, as well as take in the sights and sounds of water pouring over the log dam. 

The dams also provided excellent havens for large catfish.

The Amity Mill at Pleasant Hill was destroyed by a fire started by lightning and was not rebuilt. In 1934, the dam was removed by dynamite. Millstones from the Amity Mill can be seen at the Saline County Museum located in Dorchester.

No specific details are known about the demise of the Lawrence Mill.

Lot For Sale: 106 E 11th St.

Are you thinking about building a home? There's an empty lot for sale near the north edge of Dorchester. The Times staff agrees it would be a great spot to build.

Consider what Dorchester has to offer:

• TOP-NOTCH SCHOOL: A modern K-12 school with smaller class sizes and some of the state's best educators. This means individualized attention for your child.

• A SAFE AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY: With an upgraded water and sewer system, and a surplus of funding at Village Hall.

• LOWER COSTS: Affordable living costs with lower property taxes compared to surrounding school districts.

• KEY BUSINESSES AND PRIME LOCATION: Headquarters for one of the nation's largest agri-businesses (Farmers Cooperative) and situated on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line and along two major highways.

• GEOGRAPHIC ADVANTAGE: A quick drive to employers in Crete, Milford, Friend, and Seward. Just 30 minutes to Lincoln and 12 minutes to I-80. Yet all the advantages of a small, close-knit community.

Here's the listing for the lot:

106 E 11th St.: Vacant lot on edge of Dorchester that has over an 1/2 acre of space (0.65 acres). City utilities are available. $48,000. See the listing.

NEWS ROUND-UP: Foundation Steak Feed; Former Village Board Member Back In Court

Steak, Hamburger Feed Set for March 22: Ring in spring with a tasty steak or burger at the Dorchester Community Hall and Legion Hall on Saturday, March 22, from 5 p.m. until roughly 8 p.m. The Dorchester Community Foundation Fund's Annual Steak and Hamburger Feed will be held in conjunction with the DHS Alumni Basketball Tourney, according to social media. Funds raised will go towards a new community center. For those who don't want to dine in, to-go orders will be available by calling 402-641-0564 or 402-525-5705.

Theis Signs With CCC Basketball: DHS senior and Longhorn basketball standout Gabby Theis this week signed to play basketball at Central Community College. See the DPS social media post. At a ceremony held in the DHS gym, Theis was joined by her parents, grandparents, DHS coaches, and CCC head coach Kasi Stoltz.

Hoffman Back in Court: Matthew Hoffman of Dorchester, a former village board member, is scheduled to return to court Monday, March 17 to accept a plea agreement tied to a district court case that alleges he stole more than $22,000 as an employee of Fritz's Bar and Grill in Wilber. This marks the second time in recent years that Hoffman has been in the court system. In 2018, he was sentenced to two years jail time for an unrelated case.

DPS Seeks New Principal: Dorchester Public School is seeking a PK-12 principal for fall 2025, according to an online advertisement. Resume and references can be emailed to Curt Cogswell at curt.cogswell@dorchesterschool.org.

Next Village Board Meeting, April 14: The next village board meeting is March 14 at 7 p.m. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at Farmers Cooperative headquarters. Enter through door No. 2.

Brandt Wants Higher Income Taxes: State Sen. Tom Brandt, who represents Saline County and other area counties in the legislature, is working to stop income tax relief. Apparently, Brandt thinks anyone earning over $29,000 needs to keep paying 5.2% of their earnings to the state, instead of seeing that amount decrease to 3.9% by 2027, as planned under current law. Nebraska already has one of the nation's higher income tax rates. Brandt, a big land owner, wants to see more state dollars sent to large property holders, while far-left activist groups want the state to collect more money for welfare programs.

Food Truck Season Underway: It's time again for the food trucks to visit Main Street Dorchester. These vendors will be parked by the Legion Hall, we are told. Here's the schedule so far:

• Paradise Eats: Tuesday, March 18 (11:00 to 2:00)
• KennaBells BBQ Monday, March 31 
• Billies Grilled Cheese, April 7 (10:30 to 2:00 and 4:30-7:30)
• Paradise Eats, April 22 (11:00 to 2:00)
• KennaBells BBQ, April 28

DHS Girls Are State Runners-Up

UPDATE 3/9/2025: The Lincoln Journal Star named DHS senior Gabrielle Theis and her sister DHS junior Bailey Theis to the Class D-2 all-tournament team.  

The Dorchester Lady Longhorns capped their magical 25-3 season Saturday, March 8, finishing as state runners-up in the Class D-2 following the championship contest held at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.

DHS fell 52-25 to Falls City Sacred Heart, which captured its ninth state title and third in four years.

As reported by the Omaha World-Herald, Dorchester was in its first state final in only its second tournament appearance ever (the 2004 Lady Longhorns were DHS' first girls state team).

Lily Lehr led DHS with 10 points. Dorchester's 19.1% shooting percentage from the field hurt any chance the Longhorns had to knock off Sacred Heart. See the quarter-by-quarter tally.

DHS head coach Brandon Bruha told the World-Herald: “The girls deserve to be here. They gave their full effort and did everything they needed to do. 

"We had times throughout the year that our offense would lack a little bit, and it kind of showed tonight ... (T)he second half, we just couldn't get a bucket to go down.”

A special community event will be held Monday, March 10 at 6 p.m. at Dorchester Public School to celebrate the accomplishments of the team and their memorable season.

Congratulations to the DHS girls basketball team and coaches for your dedication, community pride, and commitment to excellence.

DHS Girls Basketball Continues History-Making Streak

UPDATE 3/7/25: It's onto the Class D-2 state championship game for the DHS Lady Longhorns after they defeated Wilcox-Hildreth, 39-31. DHS' Gabrielle Theis had a game high 15 points including three key three-pointers. Her sister Bailey Theis dropped in another 11. Read this story from the Hastings Tribune or watch the 10/11 News highlights. The championship will take place Saturday evening, March 8, at 8:15 p.m. at the Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. You'll need to pre-order tickets online if you plan to watch in person. Otherwise, you can watch the game via Nebraska Public Media.

On Thursday, March 6, the Dorchester High School girls basketball team continued its winning ways at Pinnacle Bank Arena and the Nebraska Girls Basketball State Championship Tournament in Lincoln.

With a 38-37 win over Silver Lake -- a consolidated school south of Hastings -- the Lady Longhorns (24-2) captured Dorchester's first-ever victory in a state-level contest. See highlights on 10/11 News.

The teams traded leads several times during the contest. Fortunately for DHS, the Mustangs committed a lane violation late in the game, negating a free throw and allowing Dorchester to maintain a slim lead that was trimmed by six points over the last 90 seconds.

The Orange and Black Attack now moves to the semi-finals, set for 6 p.m. Friday night at Lincoln's Bob Devaney Center. DHS will face eighth-seeded Wilcox-Hildreth (18-8), which handily beat No. 1 Wilcox-Hildreth 49-40. 

See the full tournament bracket. 

If you plan on going to the game Friday, you will need to pre-order virtual tickets here.

Behrens Gives Shout-Out to Community

DHS senior Baylor Behrens scored a game high 20 points on Thursday, helping ensure DHS made it to the semi-finals. 

"This is who we wanted to make proud," Behrens said pointing to the "Longhorns" printed on her uniform during in an interview with NebPreps. 

Behrens said the school is the bond that holds small towns together.

In this interview, head coach Brandon Bruha saluted the community as well for the support provided to the team.

Denker Calls the Big Game

Making Thursday's game extra memorable was the fact DHS alumnus Drew Denker (Class of 2003), a frequent announcer for big-ticket games at the Pinnacle Arena, was the announcer for the first-round Class D-2 action.

The Omaha World-Herald has even published this story on Denker's appearance. 

According to the paper, Denker had been scheduled to announce games at the Devaney Center but made a switch to Pinnacle Bank Arena.

"I've known the athletic director my whole life," Denker said. "Dorchester is a small, small community and this has been a historic season."

The school had been to state only once before, losing to Chambers in the opening round in 2004.

The World-Herald notes: "Denker then pondered the idea and texted fellow tourney PA guy Rich Brodersen, who was scheduled to call games at PBA. He said he'd be happy to make the switch if NSAA assistant director Jon Dolliver was OK with it."

"I texted Jon and told him this was a once in a lifetime opportunity," Denker said. "This is only the second time they'd ever been to state."

Denker played basketball at Dorchester but never made it to the tournament. The Longhorns haven't reached the boys tourney since 1985.

During Friday's game at the Devaney Center, Denker said he'd attend the game just as a fan, wearing the school colors of orange and black with the rest of his family.

If his alma mater reaches Saturday's championship game, he might have another problem. He's also the voice of Nebraska softball, which is hosting a four-team tournament that day.

"If it happens, I might have to pull some strings again," he said. "I wouldn't want to miss that."