Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Bloodmobile Coming to Exeter December 30

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in Exeter on Wednesday, December 30th from noon until 5:00 p.m. at the American Legion Home. To make an appointment call Doris Hall at 266-2841 Please give the gift of LIFE!!

Christmas Lights in Exeter




With the weather coming, you may not want to take a drive around Exeter to enjoy all the Christmas decorations so here are a few of the most notable light displays in Exeter. Also, you can watch the slideshow on the sidebar to see lots more! Personally, Ron Ruhl's is my favorite display in Exeter. Lots and lots of lights, along with Santa and his sleigh. The Bruce Rocole home has a unique display of blue lights and you can't miss Santa hitchin' a ride on Phil Gallup's camper.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Timberwolves named on All Area Football Team

Exeter-Milligan senior Shane Manning was named one of the co-captains of the 2009 York News-Times All-Area Football Team.

Also named to the team were Seniors Dillon Rischling and Greg Pribyl.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Exeter-Milligan Athletes Chosen for All State Teams

It was recently announced that several Exeter-Milligan athletes were chosen for the Class D-1 All State Teams.

Three Exeter-Milligan Volleyball players were named First Team All State:

Claire White, also named honorary captain
Steph Briske
Heather Pribyl

Kelsey Moore was named to the second team and Taylor Erdkamp was given an honorable mention.

In Football, seven Timberwolves received Honorable Mentions for the D-1 team.

Greg Pribyl, Travis Yound, Blake Blaler, Dillon Rischling, Shane Manning, Mitch Horne and Ryan Harre

Monday, December 14, 2009

Caroling time of the year



A group of Exeter residents caroled around town Sunday evening despite the icy mist falling and the slick conditions. They brought cheer to residents at the Exeter Care Center as well as individuals around town and delivered plates of cookies. At the Care Center they met up with the youth group from Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church at caroled together. After braving the chilly weather they all enjoyed supper at the United Methodist Church.

Chamber Drawing Winners

Keep entering your name in the Exeter Chamber of Commerce Drawings and check out in Exeter!!!

This weeks winners were:

Turkey, Ed Robeson
$20 Chamber bucks - Bob Dumpert
$10 Chamber bucks - Hugh Wilson
$5 Chamber bucks - Tammy Sladek

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Santa Visits Exeter



Melanie Ruhl tries to get a picture in fast before the kids lose interest in Santa.


The Exeter Chamber of Commerce sponsored Santa's visit to Exeter again this year. Each child
was invited to sit with Santa and Mrs. Claus for a visit before receiving a bag of goodies and a beanie baby.

After visiting with Santa the kids gathered to play Christmas Bingo for quarters. The kids and the parents had a great time getting a bingo on the special Christmas cards.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Perennial Changing Meters in Exeter



Exeter residents may have a knock on their door from a Perennial Public Power District employee wanting to shut the power off for a minute. Only a minute.

The power company is upgrading every power meter in Exeter to a digital meter. This will allow Perennial to read the meters from their headquarters in York instead of sending an individual to walk the backyards and alleys. Information taken from their website and printed below lists advantages for us the consumer. The change only takes a minute but looks like it will have quite the impact.

According to their website, "Perennial Public Power District began adding smart meters in 2008, and already has 3,318 members connected with this technology. By Early 2010, all of our members will have smart meters.

These meters cut down on operating costs and help co-ops and ppd's effectively manage outages. For example, a smart meter can tell us when the power is out instead of relying on you to call the outage in, and they can help reroute power around problems. Down the road they might be able to help you manage energy use, showing you what power costs at different times of the day to help you make smart energy choices when using appliances."

Copied with permission from Perennial - for more information on the project go to
http://perennialpower.com/ami_deployment.asp

Exeter-Milligan K-6 Christmas Program

Kindergarten, First and Second Grade classes sing "Santa Claus is Coming to Town"

Exeter-Milligan Fifth Grade Class

Exeter-Milligan Fifth and Sixth Grade Band performed two numbers.

Exeter-Milligan Fourth Grade class were elves in the play "Close Encounters of a Christmas Kind".

The Third Grade class were the aliens who helped abduct Santa.


It was a "Close Encounters of a Christmas Kind" in the Exeter gym Thursday evening. The Exeter-Milligan Kindergarten through sixth graders entertained their family and friends with band performances, choral numbers and a play featuring aliens and the crew from the North Pole.

Elementary Music Director Mrs. Angie Murphy opened the program with the fifth grade band performing "Jingle Jolly Christmas". The sixth grade band performed the "Christmas Processional" and then were joined by the fifth graders to perform "First Rockin' Christmas"and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" together.

The fourth graders took the spotlight as they performed "Rahther Jolly Olde St. Nicholas" on their recorders before the Kindergarteners sang "I'm a Little Snowflake."

The first graders were disappointed that they were getting "Nuttin' for Christmas" while the second graders assured that crowd that "Santa is My Buddy" in their song.

Together the Kindergarten, first and second graders performed "Santa Claus is Coming To Town," Chatter with the Angels," and "Blitzen's Boogie." Their dancing brought down the house asking "But do you know Blitzen?"
The third, fourth, fifth and sixth grade classes performed the musical "Close Encounters of a Christmas Kind" by Michael and Jill Gallina. The third grade started the story of how Santa receives so many letters, faxes and email's with their song "Letters, Letters."

In Scene II Santa was abducted by aliens who tried to read his brain. Santa, played by Sam Zeleny, explained about Christmas and goodwill and convinced the aliens to come back to his workshop so he could explain to them giving and making toys.

During Scene Three, the aliens decided as they were working in the workshop that they would "Make 'Em and Take 'Em" as they hid the toys daily under their beds.

After Mrs. Claus (Janey Due) discovered that the toys were missing she had a discussion with the elves and aliens about solving the mystery and "Do a Kind Deed." The aliens came to their senses and returned all the toys and learned the true meaning of Christmas.

Santa gave each of the aliens their own heart and they returned the favor by giving Santa a red laser beacon to use if he ever needed the help of the aliens.

The audience was informed by the students that whenever they receive a toy from Santa that is electronic, it's the aliens who make those toys.

After the program families and students enjoyed cookies and refreshments in the cafeteria.

Caroling Rescheduled

The group that was scheduled to go caroling last Sunday has been rescheduled for this Sunday, December 13th. If you can, bring a plate of cookies to the basement of the United Methodist Church at 4:30 p.m. The group will make plates of cookies to deliver as the carol. At 5 meet in the parking lot of the church to go around town and carol. After caroling bring a snack to enjoy with a light supper in the basement of the church.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Can you say SNOW??????


This picture was taken on Wednesday morning, December 9th, in the same spot that the picture was taken on Monday, December 7th in the afternoon. With 10+ inches of snow and all of the drifting and blowing it definitely hit Exeter hard.

Two snow days and no word on school yet for Thursday it has been quite a few years since Exeter had a snowstorm and blizzard that matched this one. Snow crews are out cleaning and the Village maintenance department has been vigilant about clearing the roadways. Time to get your own driveway and sidewalks cleaned.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Exeter Chamber Announces Drawing Winners

Exeter Chamber Christmas Drawing Winners for Dec. 7 are:

Turkey, Pat Mathiesen
$20 Chamber bucks - Mark Benorden
$10 Chamber bucks - Pat Sudrla
$5 Chamber bucks - Bob Becker

There will be 2 more drawings, December 14 and December 21.

Register to win at businesses in Exeter.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Exeter-Milligan School Links Added

Check out the new links down on the left side of the page. There are new links to websites that the Exeter-Milligan students have created about some of the school activities.

Exeter-Milligan Winter Music Program Rescheduled

Due to the expected winter weather, the Exeter-Milligan K-6 Elementary Winter Music Program has been changed from tomorrow, December 8 to Thursday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m. at the Exeter site.

Snow season starts - more to come. . .

Exeter received 3 plus inches of blowing snow on Sunday but close to a foot a snow is predicted for the area with the snow starting around 7 p.m. Monday night through Wednesday morning.

UCC Bake Sale Winners

The Exeter UCC Women's Fellowship had a successful bake sale on Saturday morning. They announced the winners of the quilt, Eyvonne Johnson. The other raffle items, a crocheted name wall hanging and the $50.00 gift certificate to Greg's Market were won by Klaire Jorgensen (who is attending college in Manhattan, KS.

Erdkamp Motors Celebrates 75th with Open House


Erdkamp Motors celebrated their 75th anniversary Friday night with an open house. A large crowd enjoyed food and drinks along with some beautiful cars, a little history and generous hosts.

It all began when R. D. Erdkamp started with a franchise for Dodge and Plymouth vehicles in June of 1934 in downtown Exeter. In 1946 after World War II, R.D. moved the business to the current location into buildings he built on East Seneca Street in the 1930’s.

The business has always been in the family with R.D.’s sons, Don, Robert and Leonard joining the dealership in 1946. During that year they also added their current shop on the west end of the building.

In 1964 two of R.D.’s sons, Robert and Leonard, left the business to pursue other ventures and R.D. and Don ran the business alone until Don’s son George joined the dealership. “At that time there were five new car dealerships in Fillmore County,” recalls George, “In 1960 the Dodge corporation split everything up and we were just Dodge.”

The three generations working together was short lived as R.D. passed away at the age of 86 in 1971. In 1982 Don retired and sold the dealership to George and his with Kathy who own and operate the business today.

In 1977 the Chrysler franchise was added with Plymouth back on in 1991 and Jeep and Eagle in 1992. George’s son Adam noted they were at one time “a six line dealership. We had Dodge trucks, Dodge, Jeep, Eagle, Plymouth and Chrysler.” Eagle and Plymouth were phased out in 1998 and 2001 and currently the dealership sells and services Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep.

In early 2004 the dealership again became multigenerational as George and Kathy’s son, Adam and his wife Becky, returned to Exeter and Adam joined the family business. He is the fourth generation to be involved in the dealership.

The closing of nearly 800 Chrysler dealerships nationwide this summer definitely made for some tense moments in the dealership, “It was interesting with all the closing. We had some doubts and were hoping it wouldn’t happen. No one knew the formula,” said George.

It may have to do with their motto; “Our goal continues to be to make each customer’s experience as pleasurable and simple as possible. We also strive to provide excellent service after a sale.”

As the lone new car dealership in Fillmore County and one of the few remaining Dodge dealers in the area Erdkamp Motors plans to be around for at least 75 more years.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Exeter-Milligan School Update-Language Classes


E-M Happenings by Audrey Betka-Mager


With Christmas rapidly approaching, 1st Semester is almost
over. Students have been working hard and learning a lot
with our new reading program--Reading Mastery. This year,
in addition to my duties as the Elementary Resource Teacher
at Exeter-Milligan Public Schools, I have been teaching
various reading classes and a Language class. The Language
class (pictured) is currently learning about verb tenses,
classification, the calendar, and listening to directions
and following them.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Exeter-Milligan School Update - High School Art


E-M Art Happenings by Jill Shipley

One of the Exeter-Milligan Art I classes is starting to
work with clay this week. They have gone over the art terms
that have to do with pottery and are now putting those into
practice.

The first pot they make is called a coil pot. They
construct the pot out of clay coils and blend one side.
When they are done we will let them dry and then fire them
in the new kiln, provided by the Exeter-Milligan Boosters
this summer.

The students will then get to glaze them with different
colors to give them a colorful glass coating. We will have
to fire them again in the kiln and they should look great.

Exeter-Milligan School Update - P.E.

News from Mrs. White's PE classes:

Kindergarten -2nd Grade: The elementary classes have been
busy this semester working on basic locomotor skills,
throwing and catching, eye-hand coordination, and large
muscle group activities. This past week the students played
a number of different scooter games, with their favorite
being "Sharks and Minnows" (played to the theme from
"Jaws").

High School PE: Students have been involved in many
different "lifetime sports" including; tennis,
racquetball, bowling, basketball, volleyball, weightlifting,
dodge ball, football, softball, etc.

Junior High PE: The Junior High Girls 'A' Volleyball
Team finished their season with a record of 10-2. Members
of the team included: Kylie Briske, Meredith Emshoff,
Madison Horne, Brooke Manning, Elizabeth Murphy, Deidre
Stevens, Erica Yound, and Logan Zeleny. The 'B' Team
had a record of 4-3. Members were: Brittany Beatham,
Shelby Bell, Toni Bossaller, Jordyn Brandt, Brittany Colson,
Athena Laisy, Sierra Martin, Amber Pribyl, Kimberlin Ruhl,
Sierra Santos, Hunter Stride, Maitlyn Thomsen, and Billie
Yates.

Exeter-Milligan School News - Speech Pathology

Kara Myers here, the local Speech Pathologist for
Exeter-Milligan schools. Here to explain a little about
what I do and why I do it. My job is wonderful. Not only
do I get to work with some students on a one-on-one basis, I
also get to work with preschool students all the way up to
seniors in high school!

My days are always different and
packed full of helping students with each of their
individual needs. In a typical day I may see a group of
elementary/preschool students and work on the /r/, /k/, or
/l/ sound. Then I may see a group of junior or high school
students. I assist them in understanding what they have
learned in class or helping them with such things as
organizing their thoughts for oral book reports and speeches
or utilizing webs and outlines for written activities. It
is always rewarding helping students find the best way that
they learn and teaching them strategies to help during their
school years.

This year I also was given the opportunity to participate in
the new reading program. I teach a reading group consisting
of six students during one of the reading times. The
students I see are 1st and 2nd graders that do not have any
speech and language difficulties. It has been fun watching
these kids grow and learn how to read more fluently while
also comprehending what they have read!

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Exeter-Milligan School News - Industrial Technology Class


Industrial Technology by Dean Filipi

In the Eight grade class, they started out learning about shop safety and then testing out on all of the machines. After using and understanding the machines they designed the project they are building. Some of the projects are wall shelves, book cases, picnic table, gun cabinet, and stools. In construction class, they are learning about the differenttypes of materials that go into the construction of a modern residence. They also learn about building codes, and understanding and reading blue prints. They are currently rebuilding the camp stand for the Milligan's June Jubilee.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Exeter-Milligan Elementary Students have perfect attendance


Shown are the Exeter-Milligan Kindergarten through Second Grade students who had perfect attendance for the first quarter of the 2009-2010 school year. Front row: Jaiden Papik, Rebecca Krupicka, and Alec Schlueter. Middle row: Caitlin Murphy, Anna Sluka, and Jacy Schlueter. Back row: Elijah Johnson, Max Zeleny, Ty Underwood, and Brooke Poppert.

Exeter-Milligan Athletes Honored

Congratulations to the Exeter-Milligan Conference Volleyball Team Honorees:

1st Team:

Stephanie Briske
Heather Pribyl
Claire White

Honorable Mention:

Kelsey Moore

Congratulations to the Exeter-Milligan Football D1-2 All District Team Honorees:

1st Team:

Linebackers - Dillon Rischling and Shane Manning
Offensive Line - Travis Yound
Offensive End - Greg Pribyl
Quarterback - Mitchel Horne
Defensive Line - Blake Baller
Punter - Travis Yound
Returner - Ryan Harre

2nd Team:

Defensive Back - Greg Pribyl
Offensive Line - Dillan White
Running Back - Ryan Harre

Honorable Mention:

Defensive Line - Dillan White
Linebacker - Ethan Kattes
Running Back - Shane Manning

Monday, November 23, 2009

Electronics Collection and Recycling Event in Geneva

ELECTRONICS COLLECTION
& RECYCLING EVENT
Tuesday, December 1st
3:00-6:00 p.m.


East bullpen-10th & F Streets, Geneva
The event is open to households, businesses, schools,
government entities, and not-for-profits in Fillmore County.

Electronics that can be collected:
CPUs and Monitors
Keyboards/Peripherals
Desktop Printers/Fax Machines
Copy Machines
Televisions, VCR/DVD/Stereo Components

FEE - 15¢ per pound


Electronics will be weighed and fees collected
at the time of drop-off.

Everything from the electronics collection will be recycled except wood.

This event is funded by WasteCap Nebraska through a grant provided by the Nebraska
Environmental Trust Fund with the cooperation of the Trailblazers RC & D, Fillmore
County Development Corporation and Fillmore County.

This is your chance to get rid of old, broken, non-usable electronics!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Exeter-Milligan School News


Josie Hulse is doing some serious hang time as we prepare for indoor activities for P.E. This is one of the sports that the students will participate in these next few months. They will play hockey,
Missouri kickball, dodgeball, kickball, wiffleball, as well as basketball. - (submitted by PE teacher Bob Mahoney)

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Huge crowd at the Exeter United Methodist Women Cookie Walk

Lois Thomsen (right) has her order totaled by Shirley Trauger (far left) and Wilma Murphy (middle).
Enjoying some coffee and a cookie after "shopping" at the cookie walk were from the left Jeannine Krejci, Doris Hall, Sue DeJonge (partially hidden) and Karen Chapman.

Cookie Monster couldn't have finished off the 120 dozen homemade cookies faster than the ladies who visited the annual Exeter United Methodist Women cookie walk.

Opening at 9:00, by 9:30 a.m. the ladies who were placing the cookies on trays for the walk had emptied all of their containers. Each year the ladies think they have made too many cookies and each year they sell out of the homemade holiday treats.

During the event they also host a dried fruit and nut sale of very high quality products. The sale draws guests from all over Exeter and many of the surrounding communities and counties. A variety of tins were available for purchase and then each tin purchaser could pick the cookies along several tables to fill their tin.

After making their purchases many of the patrons chose to enjoy the free cookies and refreshments while taking some time to fellowship.

Exeter G.F.W.C. Honors 50 year members

50 year members of the Exeter G.F.W.C. Woman's Club from the left are Marilyn Manning, Lois Ann Kuska, Bernice Hall, Wilma Murphy and Bethine Leif.

Co-President Bonnie Cudaback hands 50 year member Bethine Leif her gold pin.


The Exeter G.F.W.C. spent part of their Tuesday afternoon meeting honoring some very special members.

Five of their members have served for at least fifty years as active members of the Exeter chapter of the G.F.W.C. Woman's Club.

Co-Presidents Marlene Gallup and Bonnie Cudaback passed out flowers and gold 50 year pins to Marilyn Manning, Lois Ann Kuska, Bernice Hall, Wilma Murphy and Bethine Leif.

After honoring the members, the presidents took a moment to ask the ladies what year they joined the Woman's Club. Marilyn Manning recalled several neighbors coming over after she was married and she became a member in 1952.

Lois Ann Kuska recalled meeting in 1948 at the home of Loy Farmer and everyone wearing their pillbox hats to the meeting. Wilma Murphy, who once served a term as president of the club, became a member in 1940.

The Exeter G.F.W.C. Woman's Club has been active in Exeter since 1898 becoming a member of the Nebraska Federation in 1900 but was "disbanded in 1917 to help with Red Cross work during World War I" according to the Exeter History Book and the club was "reorganized in January, 1926. There were fifty ladies, charter members."

Today, the club is active in the community. Among their many activities they volunteer at the Exeter Care Center, participate in Make a Difference Day and host a special Arbor Day celebration honoring the new babies in the community each year.

New Assistant Librarian at Exeter Public Library


There's a new face at the Exeter Public Library this week. The Library Board hired Exeter High School graduate Jessica Votipka to serve as the new assistant Librarian in Exeter.

Votipka, who also works for The Sentinel, in Friend, happened to have Wednesday's off from her job as a graphic designer/writer at The Sentinel.

Saturday morning duty will be shared by Librarian Nina Bartu and Votipka, with them rotating weeks working the
nine to noon shift.

Librarian Nina Bartu (in front) shows new Assistant Librarian
Jessica Votipka the ropes at the Exeter Public Library.

Votipka spent most of last Wednesday training for her solo flight this last Wednesday. She will be learning the computer system to check out library media and keep statistics on library patrons. Next time you need a great read, visit the Exeter Public Library open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from eight to five (closed over the noon hour) and every Saturday morning from nine to noon.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Wondering about the metal pieces in the park?





Have you driven by Gilbert's Park lately and seen the strange metal pieces on the camping pad? Is it a new bridge, someone's stock parts? No, it's parts of the new slide for the pool. After placing an order this summer just recently they delivered the slide. Some of the pieces were too heavy and large for the village to store inside so they decided to store them close to the pool.

When put in place next spring the pieces will spend all winter outside so the elements will not damage the pieces.

There was not a picture available of the actual slide that the village purchased so the slide picture to the right is similar but not exact as to what the village has purchased.

According to Village Chairman, Alan Michl, a crane will have to be used to put many of the large pieces in place because of their weight.

Patrons of the pool this summer will have another wonderful feature to use this summer as the slide is installed. The village continues to need donations to pay for the purchase of the slide. Contact the Village Office for more information.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

TAKING STATE WITH THREE STRAIGHT SETS!!!!!!!!!



The Lady Timberwolves earned their first State Championship Title Saturday night in Lincoln.

The girls were on fire as they led for almost the entire length of the three sets. The third set found the Timberwolves trailing by two at the most but they came back with fire after a kill by Heather Pribyl and quickly eliminating the Howells Bobcats.

Scores for the sets were 25-14, 25-22 and the final set was 25-20. From a wild card berth in the State Tournament to Class D-1 State Champions!!!

Congratulations to the girls and their Coaches - Darcy White and Laura Kroll.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

State Volleyball Playoff's Tonight!!!!

The Exeter-Milligan Lady Timberwolves defeated Meridian Friday afternoon to secure their spot in the District finals Saturday at 9 p.m. in Lincoln. They will play Howells at the Coliseum for the final game. The game will also be aired on channel 12 at 9 p.m.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Exeter-Milligan student chosen for Attorney General's Youth Advisory Council



Exeter-Milligan junior Jameson Trauger was recently chosen as a member of the Nebraska Attorney General's Youth Advisory Council.

The council is a group comprised of high school juniors and seniors from across the state, and is designed to involve Nebraska students in the processes of government and law. As a member of the Attorney General's Youth Advisory Council, students are encouraged to share an open dialogue with General Bruning and contact him to discuss their opinions and ideas on events and matters within the state and their local communities.

Each year members of the council will be invited to attend a conference in Lincoln where they will have the opportunity to meet with the Attorney General to discuss issues involving the law and state government. Additionally, during the conference, the students participate in a full-day of activities designed to expose them to several aspects of the legal system.

Members of the council are nominated by state senators and educators from their area. In order to be selected for the council, students are required to submit applications, including an essay on the importance of civic responsibility.

Trauger also served as a member of Congressman Adrian Smith's youth council.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

And they're off. . .to a WIN!!!!!!





The Exeter Milligan Timberwolf Volleyball team headed for Lincoln this afternoon to play the first of hopefully three state playoff games. Tonight the girls play Winside at Lincoln East High School at 6:30 p.m. They were escorted out of town by the Volunteer Fire Department with lights and sirens.

The Lady Timberwolves defeated Windside 25-13, 25-22 and 25-16. They play again on Friday at 4:30 p.m. at Lincoln Southeast High School.

The Championship game will be played at the Coliseum on Saturday at 9 p.m.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Exeter Veteran's Day Program








Once again area veterans were honored at the Exeter-Milligan gymnasium for the 2009 Veteran's Day Program in Exeter.

Junior Amanda Dinneen opened the program welcoming the crowd and leading the pledge of allegiance.( first picture)


The trio of vocal students Meghann Miller, Mariah Ruhl and Ashley Miller sang the star spangled banner including the second and third verses. (second picture)

















Exeter-Milligan school counselor and Vietnam Veteran Tim Wilbeck (third picture) eloquently spoke to the crowd on the theme of "ordinary people doing extra-ordinary things."

Wilbeck asked the veterans in the crowd to stand, then asked those who were related to the veterans to also stand and then those who knew the veterans to stand. Everyone in the gym was standing, showing the impact that the veterans have had.

He told the story of Greenwood, Ind. native Clay South who was injured five years ago in Iraq sustain extensive facial wounds from close fire and a grenade explosion who has created "Veterans of Valor" and despite 40 reconstructive surgeries and continuing medical challenges "spends most of his time visiting fellow servicemen in hospitals bringing them backpacks of items like ipod's and portable playstations. He continues to accomplish extraordinary things but he is by no means alone."

Wilbeck noted the many veterans who now run companies like AOL and Federal Express who "honed their leadership skills in the military."

He reminded the crowd that men are not the only members of the service anymore. He told the story of Army Specialist Monica Brown, who while she was still a teenager and medic in Afghanistan she "ran 200 yards to a burning Humvee and helped pull the soldiers from the burning vehicle and performed lifesaving first aid." She was awarded a silver star for her efforts.

Sometimes with our military taking the brunt of the brutalities of war those at home might forget that it was "America, not the American military that Al Queda declared war on," said Wilbeck.

In his closing thoughts Wilbeck repeated the famous words of Churchill "so much is owed by so many to so few" and charged the crowd to honor veterans with deeds and not just words.

Prior to the band playing the theme from and Schindler's List and Pride of the Corps band director Mr. Shane Whitford explained the story behind the movie Schindler's List.

Junior Kelsey Moore closed the program.






















Exeter-Milligan Band




After the Veteran's Day Program the Exeter-Milligan Band posed for a photo in their uniforms

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Exeter-Milligan loses heartbreaker to Howells 64-12

The Timberwolves came out fighting and scored six points right off the bat, unfortunately Howells came out fighting as well and scored another 30 plus unanswered points before the half. The Bobcats had one player who scored 5 touchdowns.

Player of the game for the Timberwolves was senior quarterback Mitchell Horne who threw 12 for 16 with 140 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His favorite target for the evening was Ethan Kattes who caught 7 for 58 yards. Also receiving for the Timberwolves was Dillon Rischling who had three catches for 50 yards.

The Timberwolves running game was stopped by the Bobcats with Shane Manning leading the pack with 10 carries for 27 yards. Ryan Harre, another senior carried the ball six times with Horne keeping the ball twelve times for a total four yards. Rischling ran five times for 16 yards.

This will end the Timberwolves season while the Bobcats will move on to the semi-finals and will most likely reach the finals for the eighth time in the last twelve years.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Exeter-Milligan students honored for musical talents



Several Exeter-Milligan students have been honored recently for their musical talents.

Mariah Ruhl, a junior, was chosen to be a member of Nebraska's All-State Chorus. She will attend a clinic sponsored by the Nebraska Music Educators Assocation as well as a concert. She will sing Alto 1. Rehersals will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 18 -20 at UNL and the concert, open to the public will be held on the 20th at the Leid Center.
Mariah Ruhl

Exeter-Milligan Band students were also honored.

The 16th annual Fall Festival of Winds brought about 125 high school musicians to Doane College on October 31st.

The students participated in a all-day workshop and performed a free 4:00 p.m. concert in Heckman Auditorium, Communications Center.

The students represented 42 Nebraska schools and were selected by audition for the Festival Band and Honor Band. Guest conductor of the Festival Band this year is Linda Donohue, a retired teacher with 40 years of teaching experience.

The Honor Band will perform under the direction of guest conductor, Dr. Larry R. Bloecher, professor of music, director of the School of Music at Troy University.

Doane's Dr. Jay Gilbert, professor of music, will direct the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and David von Kampen, first-year masters student at UNL, will direct the Doane College Jazz Ensemble.

Students from Exeter-Milligan participating in the Festival Band are:

Flute - Amanda Dinneen

Alto Saxophone - Kelsey Moore

Euphonium/Baritone - Tyler Manning

Tuba - Jalen Mason

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Exeter-Milligan Sports Playoff Wrap Up

The Exeter-Milligan Timberwolf football team made a long trip to Emerson, but it was worth the drive.

The Timberwolves defeated the Emerson-Hubbard team and will move to the next round of playoffs on Tuesday against Howells. The game will be played in Milligan.

The Exeter-Milligan volleyball team lost Tuesday night in playoff action in York against Meridian but with a record of 24-5 are keeping their hopes alive for a wild card spot in state playoffs.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Obituary Walter Smith

Walter Donald Smith, son of Wayne and Mae (Hardinger) Smith was born on June 8th, 1921 at Westfield, PA. He Pasted on Saturday October 31st, 2009 at the Fillmore County Hospital in Geneva, NE at the age of 88.

As a young boy he attended a rural school near North East, PA, and graduated from North East High School with the class of 1939.

Following graduation he was a foreman for Curtis Aviation. He was drafted into the 370 U.S. Army Air-force Base Unit.

He was given an honorable medical discharge and entered Fitzsimons General Hospital for one and a half years.

Walter received the highest technical training honor from the American Academy School of Horology in Denver, Colorado. As requirement for his certificate in advanced horological studies he assembled his own watch from raw materials and basic stock plates under the supervision of one of Switzerland and America's most noted horologists.

Walter was united in marriage to Clarabelle Kovanda on March 20th, 1948 in the First Methodist Church in Geneva, NE. Following their marriage they made their home in Exeter, NE, where Walter established his business as The Smith's Jewelry for 30 years.

Walter and Clarabelle's home was blessed with a son, David W. Smith and a daughter, Tammy L. Bell, and three grandchildren, Colton Smith, Shelby Bell, and Zakk Smith.

He was a rural mail carrier from 1958 until he retired on July 3rd, 1995.

Walter enjoyed hunting, woodworking, and taking care of his roses. He was a Boy Scout Assistant Leader, volunteer on the Exeter Fire and Rescue Unit. Walter was a 61-year member of the United Methodist Church of Exeter, NE. and served on the church board.

Survived by wife, Clarabelle Smith, Exeter, son David Smith, daughter, Tammy Bell, Exeter. Grandchildren, Colton Smith, Zakk Smith, and Shelby Bell. Sister-in-law, Mary Smith, Sherman, New York. Niece Karen Crosscutt husband and niece, Sherman New York, sister-in-law Maxine Svec, Friend, NE.

He was preceded in dearth by parents, Wayne and Mae Smith, brother Charles Smith. Brother-in-laws,Edward, Charles, Anton, William Kovanda. Ernest, Henry Svec, Edmen and Frank Motis. Sister-in-laws, Alice, Helen Motis, and Mary Svec, Elise and Helen Kovonda.

Funeral services were conducted from the United Methodist Church in Exeter at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 3, 2009 with Pastor Karla Sheffy officiating. Jackie Strauss accompanied the congregational singing of “Amazing Grace”, “The Old Rugged Cross” and “How Great Thou Art”. Casket bearers were David Smith, Colton Smith, Mike Motis, Ernest Motis, Paul Johansen & Dana Bell. Honorary bearers were Mel Motis & Shelby Bell. Graveside services with military flag presentation were conducted at the Exeter Cemetery. Memorials are directed to the Exeter Rescue Squad. Farmer Funeral Home of Exeter was in charge of arrangements.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Exeter American Legion Auxiliary Presents Two Star Banner

Exeter American Legion Auxiliary President Annette Gloystein (right) presents Kay Due (left) with a two star banner representing Kay's two sons, Anthony and Alex, who are serving in the military.

During the meeting, Auxiliary members assembled items to send to Alex Due who is currently serving in Iraq. Pictured are from the left Alex's sisters, Janey and Anna and mother Kay Due with the items donated by Auxiliary members.

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 218 of Exeter, Nebraska met Monday, October 12, 7:00 p.m.

President Annette Gloystein presiding. Opening prayer was read by Chaplain Carol Bettger. Roll call was taken with 10 members present.

Members packaged goodies for Alex Due serving in Iraq. Kay was presented a 2-Star banner for her sons, Alex and Anthony.

Membership Chairman Linda Underwood reported 77 members paid and quota met.

Marsha Jorgensen Co-Chairman of the Exeter Avenue Holiday Sampler gave her report on the event.

Card of thanks and donation was received from the Schiefelbein family.

Make a Difference Day will be the fall cleaning of the outside entrance to the Exeter Care Center.

Noreen Songster reported on the County Meeting, Sept. 27th.

Motion moved to give a monetary donation to the 2009 Stand Down in Omaha for T-shirts, socks, shampoo, soaps and toothpaste for homeless Veterans.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

American Legion Auxiliary Hosts First Annual Exeter Avenue Holiday Sampler



It was a sold out show Saturday morning as the Exeter American Legion Home opened its doors for the First Annual Exeter Avenue Holiday Sampler.

With over forty vendors, visitors had the opportunity to shop for a wide variety of products. Jewelry, cooking items, food products, painted items, photography and scrapbooking items were just a sampling of the sampling of items for sale on Saturday.

The Exeter American Legion Auxiliary hosted the event and also sold homemade kraut pockets and fresh made kolaches at the Exeter Avenue cafe. The group will use the funds raised to help maintain the Legion facilities. The group is already in the planning stages for next years event which will be held on October 23.

See additional photos in the slide show on the left sidebar.

Exeter Girl Scouts earn badges

Exeter Girl Scouts busy cooking for their Let's Get Cooking badge.

From the left Hannah, Tara, Vicki and Josie get things mixed up.

From the left Josie, leader Becky Erdkamp, Janey, and Kaitlyn check out what's next to make.

Kaitln (left), Tara and Janey (stirring) making up a batch of cinnamon popcorn.

Hannah (left) and Vicki (right) mix up some Halloween mix.

Members of the Exeter, Troop 390, have been working on some of the badges in the Junior girls scout level.

On Friday, with no school, the girls spent the day working on their Let's Get Cooking badge while making items to sell at the Exeter Avenue Holiday Sampler. They made lots of cinnamon popcorn, Halloween mix (sweet and salty mix) as well as puppy chow. The girls also bagged up all of the products they made and some that were homemade by others and donated.

Together the girls made smoothies and nachos for lunch. They spent some of their day making posters for the sale the next day. They celebrated the birthday of the founder of girl scouts, Juliette Lowe, with a cake made by Tara Mueller.

After cooking and packaging on Friday, the girls and their leaders worked all day Saturday at the Holiday Sampler almost selling out of their product. Girls in the troop are: Josie Hulse, Hannah Beethe, Kaitlyn Vavra, Janey Erdkamp, Tara Mueller, and Vicki Androyna. Their leaders are Becky Erdkamp and Anita Mueller.