Exeter G.F.W.C. Woman's Club Art Show on Display at Exeter Library

 Various artwork by Exeter-Milligan students.

 Fort by Peytan Brandt

 Various Student Artwork on Display at the library.

 Various Student Artwork

 Artwork, Crafts and Photography by Woman's Club members

 Photo by Judy Dinneen

 Art by Mariah Ruhl, Senior

Artwork by Cayden Hartmann - Third Grade

Exeter-Milligan Participates in County Government Day

The Exeter-Milligan American Government class attended
Fillmore County Government Day on February 24, 2011 in
Geneva.  Students had the opportunity to learn about the
various functions of the County offices.  The students
participated in the Annual County Government Jeopardy
contest.  Fifty questions about state and county government
were asked to random participants from all schools using the
Jeopardy format.  The final jeopardy question was "The year
the Courthouse was built."  All three schools answered the
final question correctly and Exeter-Milligan won the contest
by scoring 1050 points, Fillmore Central finished second
with 1040 points, and Shickley finished with 400 points.

The class also participated in the Mock Trial against
Fillmore Central.  The court case was State of
Nebraska(Exeter-Milligan) v.s. George Stevens(Fillmore
Central).  Exeter-Milligan had to prove George Stevens was
guilty of Stalking on six different elements.  Fillmore
Central came out on top as the jury found George Stevens,
not guilty.  Students who participated in Mock Trial were:
Claire White(lawyer and witness), Becca Vossler(lawyer),
Quinten Loontjer(lawyer), Jalen Maxson(lawyer), Blake
Mark(lawyer), Michael Schoop(witness), and Brady
Bristol(witness).

County government day was a excellent learning opportunity
for the students.  Fillmore County does a great job hosting
this event.  We would like to thank all of the County
Government officials and the American Legion for all the
work they put in to this event.





Exeter-Milligan County Government Day Participants.  Back
row:  Brady Bristol, Nate Bigelow, Coleen Colson, Britni
Kotas, Lana Kennedy, Quinten Loontjer.  Front Row:  Nolan
Beatham, Michael Schoop, Claire White, Blake Mark, Jalen
Maxson, Becca Vossler, Trevor Rainey.


Chris Lewandowski
7-12 Social Science/Technology Coordinator
Exeter-Milligan Public Schools

Obituary Lori Lea Becker

  Lori Lea (Neemann) Becker was born January 20th, 1962 to Roger (Gator) and Dorothy Faye Neemann in Lincoln, Nebraska. She lost her battle with cancer February 20th, 2011. She was the oldest of four girls. Lori was baptized March 25th, 1962 at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Cordova, Nebraska.

         Lori attended Clinton, Riley and General Arnold schools in Lincoln and later graduated from Lincoln High in 1981. After graduation she moved to Exeter to work with her parents at Gator's Pub.

         On June 19th, 1986 she married Stephen Daniel Becker in Geneva, Nebraska and to this union four children were born, Roger Gerald, Connor Leo, Crystal Ann and James Daniel.

         While her children were at home Lori ran a daycare and balloon business. Lori then worked for the Exeter-Milligan schools until the time of her illness.

         Lori loved collecting tins and found a lot of them at auctions and garage sales. Lori made several videos for birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions. She loved hanging out with her girlfriends.

         She is survived by her husband Steve of 24 years. Her children: Roger, Lincoln, Connor, Crystal and James, Exeter; mother Faye Neemann, Exeter; Sisters and Brothers-in-law Angie (Jeff) Hansen, Cordova, Shellie (Kent) Olsen, Beaver Crossing and Sherri (Travis) Due of Cordova Brothers-in-law and wives Tim (Sharon) Becker, Turpin, OK and Dave (Denese) Becker, York. Sister-in-law and husband Geri Lynn (Ken) Kerby, Bellevue. Grandmother Esther Deterding; Aunts and Uncles, Annabelle Neemann, Ruth Ekeler, Dale and Kay Miller, Miles Snell, Bob and Marty Mitchell, Jay and Jo Woodward, Ron Hughes and Ernestine and Gene Felton. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and cousins.

         Proceeded in death by her father, Grandparents Edwin and Emma Neemann-Kasl, Step Grandfathers Joe Deterding and Leo Kasl. Uncles Arwin and Don Neemann, Raymond Snell and Willy Ekeler. Aunt Arlene Snell. Cousin LuAnne Neemann Bosley. Father and Mother-in-Law Gerald and Margaret Becker. Sister-in-law Teddy Becker. 

Funeral services were conducted from the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church on Wednesday, February 23, 2011 with Father Tom Kuffel, Father Robert Barnhill and Father Kenneth Borowiak officiating.  Shirley Milton accompanied the congregation who sang “Amazing Grace”, “You Are Mine”, “One Bread One Body”, “Song of Farewell” and “How Great Thou Art”, and Jessica Ruhl who sang “Only A Shadow.”  Casket bearers were Kent Olsen, Ty Becker, Travis Becker, AJ Hansen, Chevy Hansen and Steve Briske.  Honorary bearers were Brayden Olsen, Eric Olsen, Emma Olsen, Macy Due and Tyler Due.  Interment was in the Exeter Cemetery with Farmer Funeral Home incharge of the arrangements.  Memorials are directed to the family for later designation.

Fillmore County Extension Update: Grassland Days

Views from VanDeWalle

Brandy VanDeWalle, UNL Extension Educator in Fillmore County

February 23, 2011

62^nd Annual Milligan Grassland Day – Entrepreneurship Topics

Tuesday, March 1^st will be the 62nd annual Milligan Grassland Day with registration at 9:30 A.M. and the morning program beginning at 10 A.M. at the Milligan Auditorium. This year’s program features a look at rural entrepreneurship in southeastern Nebraska. Vaughn Hammond, UNL Extension Educator will provide a look at how various small business owners in southeastern Nebraska are turning their talents into success. A panel of local entrepreneurs will follow including but not limited to the following: Kim Slezak, Everlasting Light Images; Dave Welsch, direct marketing of poultry and beef; Carey Potter, Pour House Tasting Room; Chloe Diegel & Alex McKiernan, Robinette Farms; Sharon Auld, Awesome Pretzels; and Reid Ely, Ely Farms. Lyndsey Pohlmeier, UNL Extension Assistant in Fillmore County, will give a brief overview of the 4-H project ESI which is a project focusing on developing entrepreneurship skills for youth.

In the afternoon prepare to laugh along with our speaker, Susan Brown, retired UNL Extension Educator, as we learn the importance of laughter in our lives. We finish up the afternoon with highlights of the LEAD International Study Travel Seminar to Nicaragua, Panama, and Costa Rica provided by Deanna Karmazin, UNL Extension Associate in Lancaster County. Contact our office for more details at 402-759-3712.

Soybean Population On Farm Research Study Results

With rising input costs, producers were interested in looking for ways to reduce input costs. The objective of the soybean population study was to look as the effect of lowering soybean seeding rates and its effect on yields and economic return. Two replicated plots were conducted in 2006 and 5 in 2007 and 2008 for a total of 12 field length replicated plots in York, Seward, Hamilton, Fillmore and Clay Counties. These trials were on 30 or 36” row in no-till, ridge-till or conventional tilled fields with planting time seeding rates of 90,000, 120,000, 150,000 and 180,000.

Observations we saw were that typically most plantings resulted in about 90% of the stand that was seeded. The lower populations had more branching and as the populations went up we had less pods per plant, but in most cases we had somewhere between 5 and 6 million pods per plant. The thicker the populations, the less pods per plant and the thinner the population, the larger plants with more pods.

Over the 3 three year 2006-2008, the 90,000 population yielded 64 bu./acre; 120,000 population yielded 64.8 bu./acre; 150,000 population yielded 65.0 bu./acre; and the 180,000 population yielded 65.4 bu./acre. That’s less than a bushel and a half difference in yield as a result of doubling the seeding rates and costs!

This past year a producer in Hamilton County seeded soybeans at 60,000, 90,000, 120,000 and 150,000 with yield results of 69.5 bu./acre, 71.8 bu./acre, 73.6 bu./acre and 72.7 bu./acre. We’re not recommending going to 60,000, but that 120,000 seeding rate gave us both optimum yield and economic yield. I hope you’ll consider giving it a try on some fields or at least conduct your own on farm trial! For more detail information about the results go to http://cropwatch.unl.edu, then under related resources click on the farm research tab on the left hand side of the page. It will be the top article on that page.

Upcoming Events:

Feb. 23^rd - Pesticide Safety Ed. Program, 1:30 p.m., Ag Hall – Fillmore Co. Fairgrounds,

Geneva AND 6:00 P.M.

Feb. 24^th – Farmers & Ranchers College (Economics Mgmt & Outlook Conf.), 9-2:30 – Fillmore

Co. Fairgrounds, Geneva

Mar. 1^st – Milligan Grassland Day, Milligan Auditorium, 9:30 registration, 10-3:30 p.m.

Mar. 10^th - Pesticide Safety Ed. Program, 9:00 a.m., Shickley High School Gym (Free water

testing from Shickley FFA; bring your samples)

Local Photograph Featured in Statewide Show

photo by Mary Schlegelmilch                    Burress Moon

 photo by Mary Schlegelmilch                Hromodka Welcome

Mary Schlegelmilch of Exeter was recently chosen to show her photographs as part of an exhibit at more than a dozen different locations throughout Lincoln.

“Written in Lights and Shadows” is part of 2011 Lincoln PhotoFest which is a city wide event celebrating photography with exhibitions in both galleries and other spaces throughout Lincoln. Schlegelmilch’s work is displayed at A to Z Printing in southwest Lincoln along with the work of five other artists all from Nebraska.

Schlegelmilch started taking photos in her childhood. She inherited a castoff camera from her older sister and photography quickly became a hobby for her.

After graduating from Exeter High School Schlegelmilch attended Southeast Community College in AgriBusiness and joined the family feedlot business.  She realized then that photographer meant more to her than a hobby.

Taking a break from the feedlot, she pursued a degree in Commercial Photography at Metropolitan Community College in Omaha. Returning home to Exeter, Schlegelmilch specializes in “subjects that don’t talk back: rural landscapes, animals, weather and the sky.”

However, Schlegelmilch does do simple people photographs including senior portraits, babies, families and casual weddings.  She enjoys combing her other primary interest, landscapes and history with portraits. She also enjoys restoring old family photos and photographing old farmsteads, abandoned houses and farmyards.

Being chosen for the Lincoln Photofest was an honor for Schlegelmilch, “It was great to meet the other photographers in the show and hear their stories of the photography business and see everyone's different styles. It's crazy to think that I have work that is good enough to hang beside theirs.”

Most of her photos displayed at the show are rural scenery, a still life or two and one of her dogs. The photos at the show are also for sale, along with all her other photography which is available for viewing and purchase on her website at www.marysimages.zenfolio.com

Although Schlegelmilch isn’t actively looking for more shows she is “constantly looking for new inspiration. I'll just keep my camera by my side as often as I can and hope to keep capturing photographs that people, and I, like to look at.”

Lincoln PhotoFest will only be on display for the rest of February with Schlegmilch’s work available for viewing at A to Z Printing during their business hours, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m.  - 5:00 p.m. Also displayed at A to Z printing are the photographs of Geneva resident H A Waring Johnson.


Photo by Mary Schlegelmilch                   Hunter Silhouette

Death Notice Lori Becker

Court of Honor Recognizes Eagle Scouts from Troop 359

 

Two young men, Landon Rhodes and Cody Soukup, were honored on Sunday afternoon by the Scouting community surrounding Cordova. They were presented their Eagle Scout Rank at a Court of Honor at the Cordova Community Center.

 

Assistant Scoutmaster Lance Larsen served as the master of ceremonies of the event.  After the First Class Scouts in the troop led the opening ceremonies with a flag salute and information about the flag the Troop Committee Chair, Robert Rhodes led the group in an invocation.

 

Larsen shared several interesting facts about the scouting program and the small percentage of young men who join scouting and the even smaller percentage that reach the rank of Eagle Scout. He commended Landon and Cody on the many hours of work spent achieving this goal along with the commitment of their parents and leaders.

 

The guest speaker for the evening was invited by the scouts, Eagle Scout Shane Whitford is the music instructor at Exeter-Milligan School. Whitford shared some of his scouting background and challenges to the new Eagle Scouts.

 

The Scouts were given their Eagle honors by Scoutmaster Warren Thomsen and the patches were pinned on by their mothers. The boys also gave their mothers and fathers eagle parent pins.  Their Eagle awards were both very special as they earned them in 2010, the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.They carry a special notation on the award that will not be used again.

 

Both Eagle Scouts entered their signatures in the Troop 359 Book of Honor and Troop Committee Members Don Due, Laurence Jensen, Robert Rhodes and Stanley Rhodes also certified the entry with their signatures.

 

The new Eagle Scouts shared about their journey and their projects, earning 21 merit badges, attending scout camp and planning and conducting an Eagle Scout Project. They also took the opportunity to thank the Cordova American Legion for supporting Troop 359 for the last 62 years.

 

After singing "God Bless America" together, the colors were retired and the guests were treated to a meal. Those attending were invited to look at the display of letters the Scouts received from the President, military officials, senators and other dignitaries.  The fathers of the Eagle Scouts presented them with flags flown over the White House in their honor.

FIllmore County Development Corporation Planning Meeting

Exeter-Milligan Update: Rewriting Shakespeare

Rewriting Shakespeare

By Jami Ellis

The Exeter-Milligan High School senior English class recently studied the well-known soliloquy that appears in act III, scene I of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Some may recognize the often quoted first words, “To be, or not to be: that is the question.” In the famous lines the main character, Hamlet, speaks thoughtfully and agonizingly to himself about the question of whether to commit suicide to end the pain of experience. He says that the miseries of life are such that no one would willingly bear them, except that they are afraid of “something after death.” Because we do not know what to expect in the afterlife, we would rather “bear those ills we have,” Hamlet says, “than fly to others that we know not of.”

The senior students, after discussing the passage, were asked to rewrite the famous lines, pose a different question, and weigh the consequences and benefits of each outcome as Hamlet did in his soliloquy. A few examples of student work are below.

To Forgive or Not to Forgive

by Jacob W.

To forgive or not to forgive: that is the question.

I try to find anything

To stop the thought of your embrace

But nothing can help me cope with this disaster.

Should I live with the knowledge?

What is broken here can never be fixed again

But I can also face the truth and forget

Because I cannot face this mess alone.

These thoughts constantly run though my head,

So potent that they make sleep a bitter oblivion.

You said forever over and over

But is it possible this deceit can be ignored?

The truth is, I can do neither

Because not even the strongest of heart

Could forget or forgive this.

I thought our coalition was strong enough to withstand anything

But it seems we have found the cancer that can shatter the fortress.

I wish I had one more chance to put heart in fragile hands.

To Sleep or Not to Sleep

By Kelsey M.

To sleep or not to sleep—that is the question.

Whether it is more wise to stay up and cram

or to sleep and take the risk.

The extra hour of studies

and lost hour of dreams,

will it help to remember

those facts that seem useless?

Will it help to memorize

the order of events

Or the formula to the equation?

Or the extra hour of sleep

That experts say everyone needs.

Will it help to remember

the notes taken days ago

or answers from that pop quiz?

Maybe instead finding the wisest choice,

I should’ve studied long ago.

To Tell or Not Tell: A View of Hannah Montana

by Linsey K.

To tell or not to tell—that is the question.

Whether it is smarter to let it out

or keep the secret inside.

Of course there are pros and cons to both decisions.

You may be followed in everyday life

by paparazzi who know now your true identity.

You may lose friends that feel betrayed

by secrets they know not of.

However, if you choose not to tell,

you keep the life you now have.

The secrets, the double life,

the normalcy of people not knowing who you truly are.

Would it be better to keep life how it is at the moment

or tell and not know what the consequences might be?

It is a huge step with unknown results,

but I now know what I must do.

I am older and more mature than when I first started.
I will tell and hope that it will be alright.

Exeter Senior Center Labors of Love Quilt and Craft Show

Brenda Motis holds a tatted doily brought to the "Labors of Love" quilt and craft show by Bernie Larsen.

A collection of Labors of Love was shared on Tuesday afternoon at the Exeter Senior Center.

The program welcomed anyone to bring in items that had been handmade to a sort of “show and tell” according to Fillmore County Senior Services Advisor Brenda Motis.

“There is always an interesting story with these things,” said Motis to start the show.
Many of the items were quilts, with several that were more than 100 years old.
Along with the items, many memories were fondly shared. Many of the women brought items that had been in their cedar or “hope” chests.

Evelyn Michl brought one of the seven sets of days of the week towels her mother had embroidered for her cedar chest. She never used any of them and plans to hand them down to her children and grandchildren.
Many of the items brought were passed down through several generations and made in the Czech republic, doilies, tablecloths, dresser scarves all intricately and perfectly made.

Several men shared their own version of handmade items created with wood and other materials. Bob Samuelson of Friend shared the Welch love spoon collection that he has made. He explained how in this tradition a young man would carve a spoon for a young lady who had caught his eye “if she accepted then things got serious.”

Many of the carvings on the spoons had specific meanings. As an example, Samuelson shared one he had made for his wife which contained two identical spheres twisted together indicating marriage and on the end three chain links which indicated their three children.

Richard Brunkow of Milligan brought a plexiglass hamburger mold and a wood napkin holder to show, while his wife brought one of the more than two dozen baby quilts she has created for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

All of the quilts brought to the show had a colorful top as well as a story behind them. Francis Pracheil shared her stained glass flower quilt that was stunning. She designed the blocks based on flowers that were special to her including a sunflower for Kansas where she was born and a hibiscus reminiscent of her visit to Hawaii.

Rhonda Stokebrand, who also is an advisor for Fillmore County Senior Services, brought a quilt made by her mother who passed away in the last year. The quilt was made of fabric scraps of many of the dresses her mother made for her in her childhood. Stokebrand explained that while her mother was making the quilt something in the sewing room caught fire and her mother escaped but the original quilt top did not. It was completely burned. Her mother had several extra squares that survived although they retained some smoke and water damage which made them all the more precious to Stokebrand.

Frances Becwar brought the intricately made flower garden quilt that her mother crafted in which each piece was no larger than a 1” square.

Many crocheted items were shared with Elva Mc Bride sharing a butterfly prayer shawl. She explained that after the shawl is made a prayer is said over it and is thought to bring blessing to anyone who might wear it.
Embroidered items, afghans, crocheted blankets, baby quilts, counted cross stitch, cut work, tatting and cross stitch items were shared during the afternoon along with their legacies.

Stokebrand complimented the crowd on their beautiful items and quipped “Our generation buy comforters on a whim but you truly know what labors of love are.”

Exeter-Milligan Receives Monsanto Donation

Exeter-Milligan School received a donation from Monsanto Funds at an all school assembly.  Pictured from the left are Exeter-Milligan Superintendent Paul Sheffield, Exeter-Milligan Student Body President Taylor Slezak, Monsanto Representative Brent Kramer, Exeter-Milligan Principal Lin Schlueter, Monsanto Representative Darin Keller, Exeter-Milligan School Board Member and the winner of the drawing for the funds,Tim Pribyl , and Monsanto Representative Jim Gabel.

Who doesn't love a giant check???

Exeter-Milligan School received a recent donation of $2500 from the Monsanto “America Grows Communities Program.” It wasn’t something they applied for, it was a prize designated to the school by Tim Pribyl

Pribyl was hesitant to sign up for the Monsanto Fund drawing because he “had to include his email.” He went ahead, filled in the online form and registered for the drawing wondering if he would get a lot of junk email from the entry.  Instead it turned out to be a good thing for Exeter-Milligan School, because Pribyl, who also serves as a school board member, was chosen to receive $2500 to donate to a cause of his choosing.

It was a natural fit for Pribyl to choose the school as he has four children attending the school and  his wife is on the faculty as a high school math teacher.  He told the student body and Superintendent Paul Sheffield, “Monsanto deserves all the thanks,” said Pribyl.

Thursday morning the seventh through twelfth graders gathered to watch Jim Gabel, Monsanto representative, present the giant check to Sheffield and Student Body President Taylor Slezak.

Gabel explained how the program is available in 1200 counties in 38 states with a pool of three million dollars. Recently America Grows Communities has distributed funds to Sandy Creek FFA, Shickley FFA and just this week Gabel was notified that Clay County will be receiving $2500.

Gabel emphasized that the program is designed “to help farmers show the importance of agriculture in their communities.”

Sheffield immediately had plans for the funds.  He announced to the student body that “some of the money will be going to the Math department and since we do not have a FFA program here our FCCLA program will get some, too.  The rest of the money will go towards building a wall of champions in the hallway to the gym.  We will have a case to recognize all of our state champions, both team and individuals.”

Sheffield encouraged anyone who qualifies to register online for the chance to win.  Anyone 21 years or over who farms 250 acres can register at www.growcommunities.com .  The giant check will be on display in Exeter and Milligan for a limited time.

Fillmore County Extension Update: Upcoming Events

Farmers & Ranchers College: Economics Management & Outlook Program
        On February 24^th starting at 9:00 a.m. with registration at 8:30 the last Farmers & Ranchers College program for this season will take place as part of the Cornhusker Economics Management & Outlook Conference series. The conference will take place at the Fillmore County Fairgrounds in Geneva and end at 2:30 p.m.
        This is one of a series of Cornhusker Economics Management and Outlook Conferences across the state and will cover a number of key economic topics affecting farm management and production decisions for 2011. The opening session will focus on the fundamental outlook for agriculture in 2011 while the closing session will address the challenge of management for the coming year.
Cost of this conference is $25/participant statewide, but with the generous contributions of the Farmers & Ranchers College, the first 100 participants to register will attend FREE!  To ensure a spot, please register ASAP by calling the Fillmore County Extension Office at (402) 759-3712.

62^nd Annual Milligan Grassland Day – Entrepreneurship Topics
Tuesday, March 1^st will be the 62nd annual Milligan Grassland Day with registration at 9:30 A.M. and the morning program beginning at 10 A.M. at the Milligan Auditorium.  This year’s program features a look at rural entrepreneurship in southeastern Nebraska.  Vaughn Hammond, UNL Extension Educator will provide a look at how various small business owners in southeastern Nebraska are turning their talents into success.  A panel of local entrepreneurs will follow including but not limited to the following:  Kim Slezak, Everlasting Light Images; Dave Welsch, direct marketing of poultry and beef; Carey Potter, Pour House Tasting Room; Chloe Diegel & Alex McKiernan, Robinette Farms; Sharon Auld, Awesome Pretzels; and Reid Ely, Ely Farms.  Lyndsey Pohlmeier, UNL Extension Assistant in Fillmore County, will give a brief overview of the 4-H project ESI which is a project focusing on developing entrepreneurship skills for youth.
In the afternoon prepare to laugh along with our speaker, Susan Brown, retired UNL Extension Educator, as we learn the importance of laughter in our lives.  We finish up the afternoon with highlights of the LEAD International Study Travel Seminar to Nicaragua, Panama, and Costa Rica provided by Deanna Karmazin, UNL Extension Associate in Lancaster County.  Contact our office for more details at 402-759-3712.


For more information contact:
Brandy VanDeWalle
Extension Educator
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension
Fillmore County
972 G St
Geneva, NE 68361-2005
Phone: (402) 759-3712
Fax: (402) 759-3764http://www.fillmore.unl.edu
Email: bvandewalle2@unl.edu

Exeter-Milligan Update: Second Grade Book Swap

Second Grade Book Swap by Marla Weber

Who hasn't received hand-me-downs? Unlike the hand-me-down clothes that fade after each wash, the content in a good book always remains color-safe and vibrant. The words may appear on slightly torn pages, but the imagination and conversation they start can be as fresh and new as the first time the story was read. That's what the Exeter-Milligan Second Graders thought as they planned a Book Swap. Students brought a book or two from home that was slightly used and they no longer wanted. The book exchange was the perfect opportunity to have a snack and conversation as the books were sorted and arranged
by topic and genre. Students asked questions about the books. After looking over the choices, it was time for the SWAP! The book swap was a little more chaotic than time spent at the library, but it's an exciting way
to have fun with books.

Pictured is the 2nd grade with their books.

Front row: Cammie Harrison, Georgia Meyer, Blake Meyer, Anthony Kirkpatrick Kneeling: Olivia Murphy, Jaiden Papik, Brock Steuben, Johnathan Ostrand, Casey Jindra Standing: Makenna Morgan, Jackson Beethe, Clint Oldehoeft, Nick Wiederspan, Christopher Kelch

Exeter-Milligan Update: Fifth and Sixth Grade Science

 Clarissa Mounce and Derek Axline examine their crystals under a   microscope to see the crystalline structures more clearly.

Samantha Horne, Lucy Murphy, Evan Harre, and Cameron White mass one of their metal cubes in

order to find its density.

 Joan Strate, Quinton Behrens, Ashley Bendorden, Cameron

White, Hailey   Luzum, and Evan Harre model a solid, using

meter sticks to hinder their movement.

 Cameron White tries to pour his "Goop" into a plastic bag. "Goop" has properties of both a solid and a liquid.


Mrs. Julia Polak's 6th grade science class has started their physical science unit with an introduction to chemistry. The Blue River Cohort schools' 6th grade teachers begin their chemistry studies
with Matter and physical changes in matter, including mixtures and solutions.

Atoms and molecules are next, with the concepts of elements and chemical changes. Mrs. Polak calls her unit "Kitchen Chemistry," because almost all of the demonstrations and activities are done with common household items. The students will be given a "Chemistry
Cookbook" at the end of the year.

The Exeter-Milligan 5th grade class has been studying minerals, rocks, and fossils. They grew their own crystals, and were able to examine samples of rocks and minerals that Mrs. Polak shared, and that other students brought to class.

American Legion Auxiliary Spaghetti Feed

 Over 225 were served at the annual event. With homemade spaghetti, garlic bread, corn, salad with homemade salad dressings, who would want to miss it?

 And yes, everyone pitches in to make sure things get done!

 Pat Hassler and his mother-in-law Bernice Hall look over the Auxiliary's scrapbook project.

 Pat is the sauce maker extraordinaire!

 Jack mans the ice cream sundae bar.

Linda serves up the toppings for the ice cream. What a great way to top off a great meal.

Eagle Scout Court of Honor

  CONGRATULATIONS CORDOVA TROOP #359 EAGLE SCOUTS!

                        The public is invited to attend their Court of Honor on February 20^th

                                    at the Cordova Community Building, Cordova NE at 4:00 pm.

Exeter-Milligan Students Compete at Fillmore County Spelling Bee

 Exeter-Milligan Students at the County Courthouse to participate in the Fillmore County Courthouse are as pictured from the left Clarissa Mounce, Samantha Horne, Kaitlyn Vavra and Hailey Luzum. Kaitlyn Vavra took third place in the 5th and 6th grade division.

Exeter-Milligan Junior High Students who participated in the Fillmore County Spelling Bee are pictured from the left Janey Due, Sean Maxson and Elliot Erdkamp.

Cornhusker Economic Management & Outlook Conference in Geneva

For more information on this conference please contact:  
Brandy VanDeWalle
Extension Educator
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension
Fillmore County
972 G St
Geneva, NE 68361-2005
Phone: (402) 759-3712
Fax: (402) 759-3764http://www.fillmore.unl.edu
Email: bvandewalle2@unl.edu

Exeter Chamber Pancake Feed Fills Them Up!

Mmm. . . hot fresh pancakes and sausages were all you needed to warm up on a cold night. The Exeter Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual pancake feed on Wednesday evening at the American Legion Home.  A large crowd came out for the free meal served by members of the chamber but there was plenty for everyone.

 

The serving line crew Chamber members from the left are Alan Vavra, Greg Yound and Dave Manwarren.

 

 Dave Manwarren flipped the pancakes during the free Exeter Chamber of Commerce Pancake feed.

 Even these guys got full at the Exeter Pancake feed.  They are pictured from the left, Devin Sheffield, Blake Papik, Alex Benorden and Huntington Trauger.

Judy Votipka helps Kierra Papik cut up her plate of pancakes.

 

Brooklyn Oldehoeft is all ready to get sticky with her pancakes.

Exeter Resident Shares Hunting Experience in Book

History has been a large part of Lonnie Shafer’s life as a newly retired High School history teacher. The long time Exeter-Milligan teacher and track coach has recently delved into history in his own life and the history of pheasant hunting in Nebraska with the publication of an almanac of Nebraska pheasant hunting.

“I was looking for something to do and wondered what pheasant season was like when I was a kid. I contacted several people looking for a collection of information but found that the information was scattered, there was no collection,” said Shafer.

What started as a time filler ended up consuming the greater part of two years for Shafer. He ended up “collecting the history of 84 seasons of pheasant hunting in Nebraska and supplemented with information I gathered from the seasons and my own personal data from 55 years of hunting,” explained Shafer.
With this information he created “Shafer’s Nebraska Pheasant Hunting Almanac” subtitled “1911 - 2011 Nebraska’s Pheasantenniel.”

He started with two great resources, Dr. Jeffrey Lusk, Upland Gaming Program Manager for Nebraska Game and Parks and Jon Farrar senior editor of NEBRASKAland Magazine. Shafer also turned to the Nebraska State Historical Library for some of his information.

“I called it at almanac, I'm not a great writer, I’m a compiler,” said Shafer. “Being a history teacher helped too, I had to do a lot of writing and research in getting my Master’s Degree and that was beneficial to me in this project.”

When he discovered through his research that the pheasant was introduced into the state by legislation of appropriated funds in 1911 he realized that 2011 would be the 100^th anniversary of pheasants in Nebraska and decided to pursue writing a collection of all the information he was compiling into an Almanac format to release in time for the 100^th anniversary.

Shafer divided the Almanac into sections starting with the history of pheasants in Nebraska and dividing the next 10 sections of the book reviewing a decade of hunting seasons per section including a map of the state which shows the counties where hunting was legal, opening and closing days and starting in the mid-1950’s Shafer records estimated harvests, estimated hunters and estimated days hunting.

Not only does the book open a window to the world of pheasant hunting in Nebraska it also encourages responsible hunting. Shafer shares the details of youth hunting opportunities and how it has become a family opportunity. His father, who the book is dedicated to, shared his love of hunting with him and now he has shared it with his sons. His son, Jeff, of York, is now his primary hunting companion along with their other hunting companions, their dogs.

Peppered through each section are Shafer’s own personal hunting photos and memories. He also shares some of his recipes citing one of his wife’s favorite sayings, “You shoot it, you clean it, you cook it.”
The almanac is chock full of interesting information about pheasants, their coloration, their habitats and their lifestyle. Shafer also shares many excerpts from his own hunting diary and experiences making the book very readable for the non-hunter as well.

Shafer recently donated a copy of his book to the Exeter Public Library and the Exeter-Milligan school library. He introduced the book at the recent Pheasant Fest in Omaha during the last weekend in January. This is the National Convention for Pheasants Forever drawing in a crowd of about 21,000 visitors. Shafer’s book is available in color for $30 and $15 for black and white. He can be contacted for purchase by calling 402-266-4401 or by email at exeter.shafer@yahoo.com

Death Notice John Coffey

John J.Coffey
Age 55 of Columbus Nebraska

Born to
Leonard & Rita ( Harre ) Coffey August 27,1955 Friend, Nebraska
died in Columbus on Wednesday February 9, 2011
Survivors include:
Mother
Reta Mae Coffey Exeter, NE
Brothers
Richard & wife Barbara Coffey - Beaver Crossing,NE
Robert & Peggy Coffey Grand Island, NE
Sisters
Sylvia & husband Ernest Christensen Columbus,NE
Jeanette & husband Raymond Franzen Exeter,NE
Nieces & Nephews
Services 10:30 a.m., Monday St. Stephen's Catholic Church
Exeter, Nebraska
Visitation from 1 p.m until 8 p.m., Sunday at the Farmer Funeral Home in Exeter
10:00 a.m. Monday, before the mass at the St. Stephen's
Catholic Church in Exeter
Memorials in care of the family
Exeter Cemetery

Officiating is Father Tom Kuffel
Nebraska

Did you know it was 4-H Month?

Clover News and Notes

Lyndsey Pohlmeier

UNL Extension Assistant, Fillmore County

February is Nebraska 4-H Month

Did you know that 4-H can be found in all 93 Nebraska counties?  Did you know that one out of every three youth in Nebraska is involved in 4-H through school enrichment, traditional clubs, afterschool programs or camps?  Did you know the month of February is Nebraska 4-H Month?  4-H’ers are “Taking the Lead” and spreading the word about 4-H throughout the month.   Celebrations will occur through school visits, community promotion and at our annual 4-H Kickoff Party.    

4-H’ers can celebrate 4-H by recruiting new members, wearing their 4-H shirt to school, telling friends about 4-H, or doing community service projects in the community. Another way to celebrate is to participate in the 4-H Food Drive Challenge.  The 4-H club and the independent family that collects the most food, in pounds, will win a pizza party for their club or family.   During the month of February clubs can bring non-perishable foods to the Extension Office to be weighed and donated.  Each 4-H Club or family will be credited with the number of pounds donated. 

Finally, we’ll cap off the month with the 2011 4-H Kickoff Party on February 27^th at 5:00 PM in Ag Hall.  The evening will feature 4-H booths, a community service opportunity, adult/volunteer training, and lots of 4-H fun! 

February is a busy month for Fillmore County 4-H.  Get into the action by taking part in one of the many events. For more information about 4-H in Nebraska or Fillmore County, visit our website www.fillmore.unl.edu or call 759-3712.

4-H Dates & Events

February 5: Beef Weigh-In, 8-10:30 AM, Geneva Vet Clinic

February 27: 4-H Kick-Off Party, 5 PM, Ag Hall

February 28: Adopt a Bear Workshop, 3:45-5:00 PM, Shickley Public Library

Exeter-Milligan School Update - Social Sciences

Mr. Brian Murphy's social sciences classes at
Exeter-Milligan High School are studying a variety of topics
this semester.  As the school year has progressed technology
has continued to be integrated into the classroom.  The use
of the Smart Board and projects and reviews on the computer
give students a variety of learning experiences.  During
most class periods, discussion takes place about current
events and how those events may impact them. 

After learning about ancient civilizations during the first
semester, seventh grade switched over to learning Civics
this semester.  In eighth grade history, the class will be
using computers and other technology to make electronic
newspapers about westward expansion in the U.S.  The class
will cover the Civil War before studying Nebraska History at
the end of the year.  During the second semester in World
Geography, students will learn about countries on other
continents.  An emphasis is placed on locating countries and
cities on a map.  American History will be covering World
War II until present time.  World History is currently
learning about the Industrial Revolution.  During the
remainder of World History time will be spent on World War
I, World War II, the Cold War, and current world issues. 

Pictures is the World History class in front of the Smart
Board. Standing from left to right: Meghan Miller, Jen
Pribyl, Megan Waldron, Ashley Miller,
Blake Papik. Sitting Preston Motis, Alicia Bigelow, Taylor
Erdkamp,
Elly Korbelik.

Exeter Chamber of Commerce FREE Pancake Feed 5 - 7 p.m. TONIGHT

Please come to the Exeter Chamber of Commerce FREE Pancake Feed tonight, Wednesday, Feb 9 serving from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Exeter American Legion Home.

Exeter Scouts See the Stars

 

 Exeter Cub Scouts attended the Lincoln Stars game Friday night as part of the "Scout Night with the Stars." They are pictured front row from the left Clint Oldehoeft, Alec Schlueter, Braden Capek and Ben Bartu.  Back row from the left are Joey Bartu, Eric Olsen and Jackson Beethe.

 Eric Olsen receives an autograph from Lincoln Star #24 Jared Hanson.

Ben Bartu receives an autograph from Lincoln Star #9 John McCarron.

 

The Lincoln Stars put on a show Friday night for over 1000 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and their family members who joined the crowd at the Icebox in Lincoln.

 

The annual event "Scout Night with the Stars" brings together scouts from all over the state to enjoy an evening of hockey and interaction with the players.

 

The Stars made the evening an exciting one as they met up with the Sioux Falls Stampede.  At the end of regulation play the scored was tied 1 - 1. Overtime was just seconds away from ending when The Ice Box exploded as the Stars scored a goal to end the sudden death overtime and claim the win.

 

After the game the Scouts in uniform were invited on the ice with their families for an autograph and photo session with the players.  The Scouts visited as many players as they liked asking for autographs on playing cards, posters and other hockey paraphernalia.

New Books at the Exeter Public Library

What's New At Exeter Public Library

For Adults:
Call Me Irresistible by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown
The Red Garden by Alice Hoffman
The Sentry by Robert Crais
Damage by John Lescroart
The Inner Circle by Brad Meltzer
Strategic Moves by Stuart Woods
Tick Tock by James Patterson
Judas Gate by Jack Higgins
Nebraska Pheasant Hunting Almanac by Exeter's own Lonnie Shafer

For Kids:
Fancy Nancy-Heart to Heart
Happy Valentines Day, Mouse!

Exeter-Milligan Students Compete in Elks Hoop Shoot

The following Exeter-Milligan Elementary students competed
in the Elks Hoop Shoot on January 8, 2011, at York High
School.

Left to Right: (3rd Grade)Caleb Horne, (6th Grade) Samantha
Horne, (3rd Grade) Brooke Poppert, and (6th Grade) Hailey
Luzum