5-3-12 Courier e-Edition - Callaway Courier

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Page 2—Thursday, May 3, 2012, The Callaway Courier Meanderings by Michael A. Wendorff I read a story on the internet Monday morning about a new ap for your smart phone or tablet. It’s called “Ugly Meter Pro.” Take a picture of yourself and turn on the ap. It scans your facial features and then scales it from one to 100 — one being rated beautiful and 100 in the coyote ugly neighborhood where people scream and run. That is, unless I got that backward. It has nothing to do with how you do your hair, mustache or beard. It measures facial features, nose, eyes, etc., to come up with whatever rating scale the ap designers arrived at. Scientific? Don’t know, I was too frightened to read on. Get one and have fun with all your friends. Deal your self-esteem a mortal blow, tick off your spouse, or acquaintances who may soon become your enemies. Be as shallow as you can be. Do people call your baby beautiful and then grimace? Snap a pic and take objective measurements. Now, we all have our own self-impressions of how we look in the mirror every morning. At my age it’s fully evident that the skin is no longer as tight or smooth as it once was, the chin less prominent and the wattle of a turkey has somehow appeared on my neck. I don’t need an ap to tell the obvious. Nor do I want to be in a public place somewhere and spot a group of people looking at me and giggling as they examine a smart phone pic. Suddenly, a “bat hanging out of the cave”, an undone zipper or toilet paper on the shoe is the least of your worries. Imagine some poor sot trying to pick up a girl at a night club. She snaps a picture, runs the scan and then says, “Nope, too ugly.” That might turn a lot of single guys celibate who never had a clue how repulsive they were before the shoot-down. Going through the ap store on my wireless tablet opens up whole new vistas of humiliation with aps available to destroy or restore your selfesteem. There’s moron tests, personality tests, love and sex compatibility tests, boyfriend tests (like boys need any more pressure to meet unrealistic expectations from the girl it took 3 weeks to get the courage to ask out in the first place), or fun games like Pimple Popper and Hair Plucker to get you wondering about those things, too. Once your self-image is thoroughly wrecked, the ap store has calorie counters, fitness guides, make-up and complexion guides, horoscopes, selfhypnosis, relationship books, fashion advice, sex advice, tarot cards for predicting the future, etc. You can, without ever looking up from your smart phone, turn yourself into an entirely new person that everyone always hoped for but never realistically expected. Consider the source material. If all else fails, you can download a bubble popper which is a digital version of packing bubble wrap you pop to relieve anxiety and take your mind off your social standing for awhile. It should also be irritating to people nearby (bonus). Despite my angst at being digitally scanned for homeliness, don’t expect magical change in my personality or looks. What you see is what you get. Just don’t point a phone at me on the street and then laugh behind your hand. I’ve spent my whole life learning how to not give a hoot what others think. Please don’t undo my false sense of security with digital scans of my admittedly ugly mug. Also, I think I’ll avoid the moron test — not having studied. Prize winning newspaper 2011 Nebraska Press Association The Callaway Courier Michael & Suzanne Wendorff, Publishers Correspondents: Mary Johnson, Oconto Phone: (308) 836-2200, email: ccourier@gpcom.net Volume 45, Issue 7 Thursday, May 3, 2011 Established March 25, 1968. Published weekly at Callaway, Nebraska, 68825, Wednesday A.M. for Thursday A.M. delivery. Periodical Class Postage paid at Callaway, Nebraska. Publication number: 085540. Newspaper Policy All Advertising and news copy must be in by no later than 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising or news deemed not suitable for publication. The Callaway Courier cannot be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion of either advertising or news copy. Claims cannot be considered unless made within one week from the date of publication. No allowances can be made when errors do not materially affect the value of the advertisement. All letters to the editor must be signed to be considered for publication. Subscription Rates $25.00 per year in Nebraska $27.00 per year Out-of-state Attention Postmaster For Change Of Address: The Callaway Courier, P. O. Box 69, Callaway, Nebraska 68825-0331 Editorial Page Important Health Message As I was lying in bed pondering the problems of the world, I rapidly realized that I don’t really give a rat’s behind: 1. If walking and cycling is good for your health, the postman would be immortal. 2. A whale swims all day, only eats fish, drinks water, and is still fat. 3. A rabbit runs and hops and only lives a few years. 4. But a tortoise doesn’t run and do anything quickly, yet it lives for 450 years. And you tell me to exercise? I don’t think so. I’m retired. Go around me! * * * Heartwarmer Stories about children and their views of the world are always touching. A father watched his young daughter playing in the garden. He smiled as he reflected on how sweet and pure his little girl was. Tears formed in his eyes as he thought about her seeing the wonders of nature through such innocent eyes. Suddenly she just stopped and stared at the ground. He went over to her to see what work of God had captured her attention. He noticed she was looking at two spiders mating. “Daddy, what are those two spiders doing?” she asked. “They’re mating.” her father replied. “What do you call the spider on top?” she asked. “A Daddy Longlegs.” her father answered. “So, the other one is a Mommy Longlegs?” the little girl asked. As his heart soared with the joy of such a cute and innocent question he replied, “No dear both of them are Daddy Longlegs.” The little girl, looking a little The Arnold Sentinel In a few days, the Arnold and Callaway school boards will hold their separate regular meetings and vote either yes or no to sanctioning a South Loup Bobcat cheerleading squad. Between the two boards, the issue of cheerleading has taken up many hours of discussion time, and board members seem to be ready to finally resolve an issue that has confused and puzzled patrons of both districts. Why has it been an issue at all, is the comment most often heard from residents of the district. For decades, there have been cheerleading squads in both towns. Then, with the formation of the South Loup Bobcat athletic co-op between Arnold and Callaway, there was a combined squad. The cheerleading program took a break last year, when there didn’t appear to be enough interest or senior leadership. The Arnold board said at that time that the program would be revisited if there was enough interest. Fast forward to February of 2012, and there was more than enough interest by participants, but at the recommendation of the South Loup Bobcat Co-op Athletic Board, both boards voted “no” to cheerleading. It was not a unanimous decision. Reasons puzzled thought for a moment, then lifted her foot and stomped them flat. “Well,” she said, “that may be okay in San Francisco , but we’re not having any of that stuff in Nebraska.” * * * 55th High School Reunion He was a widower and she a widow. They had known each other for a number of years being high school classmates and having attended class reunions in the last 20 years without fail. This 55th anniversary of their class, the widower and the widow made a foursome with two other singles. They had a wonderful evening, their spirits high. The widower throwing admiring glances across the table. The widow smiling coyly back at him. Finally, he picked up courage to ask her, “Will you marry me?” After about six seconds of careful consideration, she answered, “Yes, yes I will!” The evening ended on a happy note for the widower. But the next morning he was troubled. Did she say “Yes” or did she say “No?” He couldn’t remember. Try as he would, he just could not recall. He went over the conversation of the previous evening, but his mind was blank. for not having the program included transportation and practice time issues and drama within the first combined squad. Although the girls assured board members that they have gotten to know each other and have become friends since then, the answer was still no. In a later meeting, Superintendent (Patrick) Osmond mentioned that parents had complained that there were too many activities, and this also affected the decision. From news coverage of those meetings, we know that, in fact, parents complained that there were too many ball games, and the overloaded schedule was affecting other activities, such as drama, speech and Mock Trial. Sponsor Tammy Weinman and her band of hopeful cheerleaders then decided to form a private cheer squad, and began making plans to attend camps and signed up to help with upcoming community events. But their plans were squelched again, when the issue of school liability was brought up. At March meetings, Superintendent Osmond presented liability release documents for the boards to approve. Neither board did, because there was disagreement on whether there even was a liability issue with a Worth Repeatin’ From the collection of Pat Young He remembered asking the question but for the life of him could not recall her response. With fear and trepidation he picked up the phone and called her. First, he explained that he couldn’t remember as well as he used to. Then he reviewed non-sanctioned squad. Students and concerned residents spoke out at that meeting in favor of cheerleading. One week later, Arnold School Board President Duane Bowers requested a combined workshop between the two boards to decide whether or not to revisit the issue. At their own discretion, the boards decided to take another vote at their upcoming May meetings. If they vote “yes,” the boards agreed that sponsors would be paid and transportation would be provided for the squad. All should be well, but this brings us to a whole new puzzling issue; that of who will be sponsors if the boards vote yes to the program. The most obvious candidate for head sponsor from Arnold is Tammy Weinman — a woman who has a coaching endorsement, has sponsored cheerleading for several years for no pay, and has involved the girls in almost every community event there is, helping them build leadership skills and their community service resume. It’s just good, common sense. But at the workshop, it became apparent that she would not be the obvious choice. Her response was asking the administration if she and the other two interested the past evening. As he gained a little more courage, he then inquired of her: “When I asked if you would marry me, did you say “Yes” or did you say “No?” “Why you silly man I said, ‘Yes. Yes I will’ And I meant it with all my heart.” The widower was delighted. He felt his heart skip a beat. Then she continued. “And I am so glad you called because I couldn’t remember who asked me!” Guest Editorial ‘To cheer or not to cheer?’ That is the question by Sen. Mike Johanns Last week, the Senate took a very positive step toward improving federal farm policy. An update of the farm bill passed overwhelmingly out of the Agriculture Committee, enjoying strong support from both Democrats and Republicans. This bill is an improvement for American agriculture: it’s simple, it’s straightforward, and it’s more market-oriented. Better yet, it’s fiscally responsible and will help to cut our country’s troubling budget deficit. Certainly the most pressing issue of our time remains our mounting debt, and the farm bill was drafted with this in mind. The bill saves more than $23 billion in farm and nutrition programs, while helping producers manage their risk and ensuring we continue to address hunger. Having a committee come together in a bipartisan way to cut spending in a responsible manner is a breath of fresh air. I’ve met with many of you over the past year, often times at my Ag Policy Perspectives events, to discuss the new farm bill. Your Letters To the Editor: It was great to see the enthusiastic reception given to “Ag Fest 2012” held in Dawson and Custer counties. This activity drew more than 751 fourth and fifth graders, their teachers and sponsors. The “Agricultural Community” should appreciate the strong interest school administrators, teachers, and students have in learning more about their industry. Thanks to them for taking time out of school schedules to attend. Another pat on the back goes to those ag producers, commodity groups, media, agribusinesses, and FFA groups that contributed to and were on hand to tell the amazing story of American agriculture. It is a story of a lifestyle and business that has an ag producer working for 19¢ of every food dollar to thoughts and ideas are reflected in the legislation we crafted in the Agriculture Committee. The crop insurance program has been effective and popular, and it will continue to be a central risk management tool for farmers and ranchers. There has also been broad acknowledgement that direct payments must be made a thing of the past, and this farm bill steers us in that direction. The Adjusted Gross Income cap has also been reduced, further targeting government farm supports to producers who need it most. I am pleased to report that several of my ideas and amendments are included in the bill. I’ve long been an advocate for policies which support beginning farmers and ranchers as well as returning veterans looking to start careers in farming. These proposals were roundly supported and included in the bill. It is critical that our federal farm policy keeps in mind the future generations of ag producers. sponsors from Callaway would be “pushed aside.” Superintendent Osmond informed the boards that the sponsors should be full-time employees from both schools. Callaway board member Mary Ridder disagreed, saying the schools should be looking for good leadership for the program, and that it has never been an issue before. It was also brought up that two current head coaches of the athletic co-op are not full-time school employees. Ridder was right. It never has been an issue, considering just two years ago, Weinman was a sponsor. So, if the boards vote “yes,” is it possible that the one person who is most qualified for the job, pushed for the program for the girls and actually asked for the job, will be the last on the list to be considered? The duties of a cheerleading sponsor include eight months of time commitment. The best the district can hope for in looking within the system is a half-hearted agreement or including it in a job description. Most likely, it will not be the leadership that Ridder says the girls need. The biggest question of all is, will board members voice their opinion? Only time will tell. A positive step forward on the Farm Bill Mike Johanns Thanks for letting the Callaway Courier into your life in 2012! produce food for 155 people. These stewards of the environment strive year after trying year to provide each of us with the most abundant, wholesome and safest food supply possible ... and they succeed. As Extension workers, we appreciate everyone’s cooperation on “Ag Fest 2012”; and believe, that with all the help we received, our goal of educating young people on the impact of Nebraska Agriculture was met. We applaud others taking on similar challenges and look forward to the next Ag Fest. Sincerely, UNL Extension - Dawson County Staff: Bruce Treffer, Andrea Nisley, Mike Wolff UNL Extension - Custer County Staff: Troy Walz, Jessye Goertz, Colleen Peterson Another area I was glad the committee spent time discussing was trade. The bill also includes an amendment of mine to ensure USDA continues to prioritize trade. The recently enacted trade agreements with Korea and Colombia shouldn’t be stopping points. We must keep working to level the playing field for our producers by lowering trade barriers around the globe. Having served previously as Agriculture Secretary, it’s my opinion that trade policies at USDA can be better focused and coordinated, and my amendment will have the department evaluate improvements. The farm bill is by no means perfect, but it is a positive turning point for American farm policy. It will benefit farmers and ranchers, it will benefit the American people, and it helps get our country back on a fiscally sustainable path. I was pleased to support it and look forward to its consideration in the full Senate.
Obituaries William G. Wilcher Nov. 9, 1929 — April 17, 2012 William Giles Wilcher, known to his family and friends as Bill, was called home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 17, 2012. His passing was very peaceful, with his friends and family by his side at Carson Tahoe Continuing Care Hospital. William was 82 years old, born on Nov. 9, 1929, to William Wilcher Sr. and Vera Marie Giles of Nebraska. He was the oldest of four children: Jackie (Wilcher)Young, Gary Wilcher, and Sharon (Wilcher) Savidge. He was married to Norma Jean Frederick, and on Christmas Eve of 1953 their son James Martin Wilcher was born. After serving his country in the United States Navy in the Korean War, William and his family moved from California to Carson City, Nev. William enjoyed a successful career with the Nevada Department of Mo- Callaway News Steve and Diane Brestel of Lincoln, and Jessica Brestel of Kearney spent Friday night at Joyce Brestel’s home. Friendly Circle by LaVonne Hickenbottom The Friendly Circle Club met April 19 with Joyce Brestel. Roll call was “How do you start your spring house cleaning?” After the business meeting, invitations to the Callaway Senior Tea on May 17 were filled out and addressed to the senior mothers. Lunch was served. The May 17 meeting will be with Nadine Reinhard. H.H.H. Club by Carol Kennedy H.H.H. club met at the Grand Generation Manor with Mildred Pitkin as hostess. Roll call was “How many times have you moved in your life.” It varied from three to 13 times. The March minutes were read and approved. The May 9 meeting will be at the Good Samaritan Center activity room with Marge Headley as hostess. Ruth Hendricks moved to adjourn, seconded by Nona Leibhart. LaVonne Hickenbottom joined us later. A dice game was played. Lunch was served. William Wilcher tor Vehicles where he made many friends. Upon retirement, he and his wife enjoyed several decades together with their family. Bill and Jean loved each other dearly, and in his final days Bill expressed his desire to be reunited with his wife who preceded him in death. He was a wonderful father, grand-father, greatgrandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to all of us. His happy, sweet nature will be dearly missed by all. Bill leaves behind his son James (Kelly) Wilcher; granddaughter Rachelle Wilcher (Kyle), and their daughter Leighton; grandson Jordan (Quinn) Wilcher; grandson Griffin Wilcher. Bill also is survived by his two loving sisters Sharon Savidge and Jackie Young, as well as several nieces and nephews. William and Norma’s legacy is their family, and the spirit of their love and generosity will live on in all of us. His memorial service will be conducted at 3 p.m., the First Presbyterian Church in Carson City on Sunday, May 20. Rebecca Johnson Callaway junior Girls State pick CHS junior Rebecca Johnson was selected by the Callaway American Legion Auxiliary to attend Cornhusker Girls State in Lincoln June 3-9. She is the daughter of Bill and Marilyn Johnson and is active in choir, basketball, track, one-acts, speech, has been a cheerleader and attended mission trips. McCOOK — Sophomore pre-pharmacy major Max Owens, Oconto, received top honors Thursday at McCook Community College’s Honor’s Convocation, receiving the Presidential Award — the school’s top academic award — given to a student excelling in academics, leadership and service to the community. In addition he was named top student in the Science and Math Division and top member of the group SMAC (Students Making Active Choices). “Max is very deserving of this award because of his excellent academics, leadership, and service,” said Megan Friesen, one of three MCC staff to nominate Owens for the college’s top student award. “It’s always a joy to have Max in class.” Friesen said Owens is always fully prepared for class and that even though his work would be okay without much effort because he is bright, he is not satisfied with being okay. “He pushes himself toward constant improvement and focuses on turning out the best work he can. He also views his class work in relation to the greater scheme of things,” Friesen said. In Expository Writing, when students can pick their own research topic, Friesen said Owens decided to create a justification for the creation of a walking trail in his hometown. This project was directly applicable, and he was encouraged to present it to his town’s council. Science Instructor Jim Hall had Owens as a student in Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II as well as Microbiology classes. Library News by Bev Stivers, Librarian Nigel Sprouse Memorial Library The posters for the 2012 Annual Kite Fly are now on display in the Wayne Thurman Addition. It is good to have these posters all ready to display when the time comes for the kite fly on Labor Day weekend. Do come in and see what the children have done. Watch for more information for the summer reading program which will begin May 30. There are several resource people lined up to do some programs for the different sessions. I think the children will really enjoy these programs. School will soon be out, but plan to continue reading for information and your pleasure. “He is an excellent student who always has a smile on his face and a pleasant greeting when you meet him,” said Hall. “Max has demonstrated an intellectual curiosity as he pursued resources in and out of the classroom. He is a dependable and conscientious student in class.” His dedication to academics is obvious by his 3.96 gradepoint average, but MCC officials say that in the past two years Owens’ has become a leader on campus . He served as the local President and Regional Secretary for Phi Theta Kappa as well as president of the MCC Student Senate. These leadership responsibilities gave him the skills to meet with the Vice President of MCC to give an update on the Phi Theta Kappa Chapter on campus. He also led the spring orientation, and proudly represented Phi Theta Kappa when delegates from China visited the MCC Campus. As part of his service to PTK, Owens has been involved in donating and assisting the planning of the Red Cross blood drive, selling tickets at MCC athletic events, planning and participating in the first on campus International Fair, and even helping to unload a food truck at 5 a.m. on a Saturday morning. “While other students have completed some of the same activities, Max has gone above what is asked of him and excelled while finding his niche at MCC,” said Phi Theta Kappa Advisor Shannon Schaben. “He follows through with what he says he will do, finds answers when in doubt, and keeps his sense of humor with him the entire time making him approachable by his peers.” Owens joined SMAC this year, which is an organization that relies heavily on the strong leadership skills of all of its members. Max undertook one of the most time consuming projects for the year by working on getting a drunkdriving simulator on campus. He researched companies and Robert & Christie Pitkin The Grand & Kimball, Callaway Phone: 836-2328 Corner Stop The Callaway Courier, Thursday, May 3, 2012—Page 3 Max Owens named MCC Presidential Award funding options, and even volunteered to help write the grant that funded this project. Max’s service doesn’t end here though. He is also involved in the theatre, having just com- Weekly Crossword Puzzle brought to you by: STOP (IN) pleted the college’s production of “A Thurber Carnival” and has connected with the community through a local bridge game. Owens will graduate from MCC on May 11. Ryan Purdy, interim President of Mid-Plains Community College presents the MCC Presidential Award to Sophomore Max owens. (courtesy photo) Let us service your auto Clean oil and filters, properly inflated tires means a more efficient engine for better gas mileage. Schedule an appointment today!
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