

To create is to be alive, and Cozad's art scene is certainly alive.
From the Robert Henri Art Gallery to Music Mondays, from craft fairs and concerts, Cozad is dedicated to its creative lifestyle.
So much so that they go out of their way to provide opportunities for all kinds of artists, as seen by the "So, You Want to Write a Book?" presentation Tuesday, March 24, at the Robert Henri Art Gallery.
Peter Osborne partnered with Wilson Public Library for his presentation.
Osborne is the director of the Robert Henri Art Gallery and Museum and a published author of 19 books.
He writes primarily historical nonfiction but has written two memoirs.
Osborne's late wife, Janis Osborne, was a newspaper editor and author, leading both Osbornes to a life full of writing.
If you've written a book or are thinking about doing so, the idea of publishing one can be daunting.
How do you find the right publishing company? Do you choose print-on-demand or traditional publishing? How do you lay out your book? How do you get your book into the hands of readers? Osborne aimed to answer these questions.
During his presentation, Osborne sat at a table with guests, making the event relaxed and more of a discussion.
He broke down the reasons people want to write a book.
Writers join their trade for many reasons, but some of the most popular are that they believe what they have to say is important, they want to make their mothers proud, they want to see their names in print, they believe their topic will speak to people, or they are passionate about an issue and believe that everyone should know about it.
"The first three books I wrote were to keep my mother happy," Osborne said. "After book four or five, I started writing for posterity."
Osborne took time to break down the steps for publishing a book, starting with typing up a manuscript and ending with sales.
He encouraged everyone interested in writing a book to get an editor.
"All good writers need good editors. Without a good editor, you will surely be embarrassed," Osborne said.
Osborne explained how to purchase ISBNs, LCCNs and copyrights, saying such legal book identities are "a requirement of anyone who writes a book."
Though everyone has heard the old saying "don't judge a book by its cover," Osborne said, people do. So it is important to have a good cover because "people will buy your book within the first 10 seconds of looking at your cover."
Along with breaking down the writing and publication process and how to complete legal obligations, Osborne went into detail on how to choose the right publishing route for yourself.
There are two main routes of publishing: traditional and independent. Osborne has experienced both.
"The market is flooded with all kinds of books. Hundreds of thousands are published every year," Osborne said. "Major publishers are really selective about what they publish."
He encouraged aspiring authors to look into both major publishing houses and print-on-demand companies.
Companies that do print-on-demand can print one or 1,000 copies of a book at a time, so authors can choose how many they want on hand.
Some companies even offer promotional services.
Osborne recommended Lightning Source for publishing, saying that he's worked with the company and it streamlines the publication process.
He said he's never had to fight with the company to get orders fulfilled. He said he's heard horror stories from authors about companies that required them to buy 1,500 copies of their books up front or that couldn't fulfill orders by bookstores.
"If you are not confident enough, get a 'book shepherd,'" Osborne said. "You have to remember (in independent publishing) that you are going to be the one running the whole show."
When writers go the independent route, they are responsible for everything from writing the initial manuscript to promoting the book once it's published. There is no one else on the team.
Hiring a book shepherd helps with the process, but they can be pricy.
"Book shepherds can cost around $2,000 to $3,000, and once your book is published, they're done," Osborne said.
A book shepherd's job is to walk the writer through each step of publication. Once the book is sent to the publisher, however, they step away.
Osborne said book shepherds are becoming more popular and easier to find, but writers should keep the cost in mind.
He provided attendees with budgets from two of his books and explained that you can get the whole process done for less than $1,000, with your legal obligations costing a decent chunk of that as ISBNs tend to run $150 each.
Osborne is passionate about his craft. After the discussion ended, he stayed to answer questions, even offering attendees a glass of wine.
The night was a success with 10 writers in attendance, some of whom write nonfiction and others fiction.
The writers got to talk shop, enjoy each other's company and pick Osborne's brain.
If you are thinking about writing a book or are in the process of doing so, Wilson Public Library offers monthly meetings for writers.
The Writing Society meets the first and third Tuesday each month at 6 p.m. The library closes to the public at 6 p.m., so attendees are encouraged to arrive shortly before.
OMAHA — When Nebraskan Rose Godinez chose a legal career, she was motivated by the opportunity to help immigrants, including some of her own family, knock down barriers to realizing their American dream.
On March 23, the Lexington-raised attorney — who recently directed the legal team for the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska — is confronted with perhaps her most trying predicament yet.
Older brother Carlos Godinez, who has lived in Nebraska all but the first decade of his 47 years, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and faces deportation to Guatemala.
The oldest of five siblings who all graduated from Lexington High School, Carlos attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney and is a long-time restaurant owner and community figure.
“It’s probably one of the most difficult times of my life, both professionally and personally, in that my family is the reason I became a lawyer in the first place, to understand the law and know how to maneuver,” Rose Godinez said. “Despite all the skills and abilities I’ve gained in the immigration court system … I feel powerless in a sense right now.”
She is doing whatever is possible to help family and friends raise awareness and support demonstrating her brother’s community standing that she said might assist in anti-deportation efforts led by Omaha immigration attorney Rachel Yamamoto.
The case highlights a predicament facing many families of mixed immigration status as President Donald Trump’s administration continues to push its “largest domestic deportation operation in history.” The White House says it is “liberating Americans from the crushing burden of unchecked illegal immigration.”
By a twist of fate and birth order, some members of migrant families are born U.S. citizens, while others rely on often complex and time-consuming legal steps to gain permanent residency and citizenship rights that protect against removal from the country.
In the Godinez case, Carlos came to the U.S. at age 10 with his mom to join his dad who at the time was working on the West Coast. The family, a couple of years later, moved to Nebraska for meatpacking jobs. Rose, born in Los Angeles, was 2-years-old when the family arrived in Lexington.
Carlos eventually married in Nebraska, divorced and is raising two sons, ages 11 and 13. For more than 15 years he has operated and owned Nick’s Gyros in Kearney but lacks his own lawful residency status.
On March 11, federal agents took him into custody, and he is on an ICE hold in Hall County Jail in Grand Island. Court records show he had been on probation in Buffalo County after violating terms last summer of a driver’s license revocation. His sister believes the legal interaction triggered an ICE notification.
She referred more specific legal questions to his immigration attorney, Yamamoto, who could not immediately be reached for comment.
As Godinez faces a March 31 appearance before an Omaha-based immigration judge, his restaurant’s social media account has been filling up with well wishes and words about his community contributions.
One critic quipped that federal law doesn’t include a “good guy clause,” while others questioned why he didn’t seek a legal remedy sooner.
Rose Godinez, who now leads a private practice specializing in nonprofits and small businesses, said her brother had options including a citizen family member petitioning on his behalf. That route often takes many years.
She said her brother, whom she described as a “pull yourself up from the bootstraps kind of guy,” balked at depending on another’s status to gain his own.
In a media statement, Carlos Godinez said he was “raised with the American belief that if you work hard, you earn your keep.”
He recalled flying on a plane as a boy to the U.S., “not knowing where we were going, only that I would see my father again.”
“I built a business, gave back to my community and lived what I believe is the American Dream which is now at risk of being taken away,” Godinez wrote.
His parents and all but one sibling live in Nebraska. The youngest brother, Jonathan, is working on his doctorate degree at Columbia University in New York.
Maria Godinez, their mother, said she is “devastated” for her grandchildren and family. She said she was recently hospitalized, and son Carlos offered support via a call from the jail.
“We are not a family that asks for help, but today I am asking,” she said in a statement. “As a mother, I’ve watched my son grow into someone who works tirelessly, not just for our family but for our entire community. Carlos has built a business, helped so many people and shown leadership.”
Yolanda Nuncio of Grand Island, said she met the Godinezes decades ago when she was a principal in the Lexington public school system. She said the whole family, including the grandma, attended school and community events together. She said she watched Carlos ascend as an entrepreneur and his siblings grow into professional careers.
“It’s a strong family that’s been here for many years and has contributed so much to the community in all areas,” Nuncio said. “For this to be happening to Carlos and the family — because it does affect the entire family — is unthinkable and hard to understand.”
Nuncio views the situation as a sign of an “inadequate” immigration system. “We need to get this corrected, because it is destroying families and communities,” she said.
The Trump administration has doubled-down on the president’s “ironclad commitment” to enforcing the nation’s laws, contending in January that the efforts have resulted in less crime, lower housing costs, higher wages and more jobs.
“Through mass deportations, the Trump administration is freeing up resources, revitalizing opportunity and restoring safety — delivering tangible results that put Americans first,” the statement reads. ICE officials did not respond to a request for comment on the Godinez case.
Supporters of Carlos Godinez say that through his business, he has hosted and sponsored community events and created opportunities for students.
Juan Guzman, a friend and longtime UNK staff member, said in a statement that he has been active in his fraternity and in backing service initiatives.
“He has helped organize and financially support impactful educational events such as the Beta Men Conference for middle school boys and the NCUC programs, which aims to inspire and guide high school students to pursue higher education,” said Guzman.
Rose Godinez said her brother financed his own business that has employed many students. She said that as a first-born, he is a focused self-starter and leader. She said he is preparing for his day in immigration court.
Via social media, Carlos Godinez asked community members to pass on a message to the immigration judge Abby Meyer: “Let her know that I’m an asset and not a liability to this country I call home.”
Nebraska Examiner is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.
The Around Town section of the Clipper-Herald is to notify the public of upcoming events and to publicize pertinent information from individuals, groups or service organizations. PEOPLEThe family of David and Beverley Kitzing announces an open house for their parents’ 70th anniversary Sunday, April 12 from 2-5 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington.
LEXINGTON HAPPENINGSPriscilla Quill’s book launch at the Lexington Public Library Tuesday, March 31 at 5:30 p.m.
Members and friends are invited to the Dawson County Historical Museum for an open house and annual meeting Saturday, March 28 at 2 p.m.
Lexington Regional Health Center Auxiliary is hosting an Easter Bake Sale Thursday, April 2 from 9-11 a.m. in the hospital main lobby.
Lexington Community Foundation Key 2026 event Saturday, April 11 from 5-8 p.m. at The Well in Lexington.
Free mobile food pantry Thursday, April 2 at 3 p.m. at the Dawson County Fairgrounds.
Women’s Resource Center is inviting the community to their grand opening ceremony Tuesday, April 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a ribbon cutting at 1 p.m. Location: 612 N. Grant St., in Lexington.
Plum Creek Quilt Guild guest night “Old Lady Trunk Show” Thursday, April 9 from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Lexington Grand Generation Center.
Lexington Food Drive is accepting donations until April 17. Items needed: peanut butter, canned vegetables, canned tuna, pasta sauce and pasta. Drop-off locations are Orthman Community YMCA and Plum Creek Market Place.
Nebraska Extension Cover Crop Considerations event Tuesday, March 31 from 10 a.m. to noon. Location: south of Orthman Manufacturing on Road 435 in Lexington. For information call: 402-719-2699.
Lexington Public Library is hosting four creative writing classes on Monday, April 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 2-3:30 p.m.
VFW 5136 Auxiliary will hold its quarterly meeting Tuesday, April 7 at 9:15 a.m. at the Pinnacle Bank meeting room They will be discussing possible consolidation with VFW 890 Auxiliary.
Lexington City Council meeting Tuesday, April 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the city office building.
Free community shredding event Friday, April 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: 617 N. Grant St., Lexington.
Easter Egg Hunt at Ridgeway Senior Living Friday, April 3 at 2 p.m.
Vendors are needed for the Healthy Kids Day at the YMCA April 17 from 6-9 p.m. Contact the YMCA before April 6.
Orthman Community YMCA Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 4 at 10:30 a.m. at Kirkpatrick Memorial Park.
LWML Spring Salad Luncheon Thursday, April 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church.
GriefShare meets every Thursday through April 30 at 6:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church.
Cropping at the Museum: Rescuing the Past April 10-13 at the Dawson County Historical Museum. All proceeds benefit the museum
YMCA Cinco de Mayo 5/10K walk/run Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m.
.Parkview Baptist Church holds a food pantry every third Saturday of the month at the Refuge Building (1105 Park St.) in Lexington.
The Dawson County History Museum is hosting “Coffee with Carol” the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon.
The Lexington Lions Club meets at 7 p.m. every fourth Monday of the month at the Lexington Grand Generation Center.
Lexington Rotary Club meets the first and third Tuesday of the month at Dawson County Annex Building at noon. For more information or to join call 308-325-7006.
The Dawson County Democrats meet at 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at the Los Jalapeños Restaurant.
American Legion in Lexington meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles.
WIC Clinic Sites, Dawson County: Lexington – Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Building, 931 W. Seventh St., Tuesday through Thursday the first 4 full weeks for each month.
RYDE Transit — Public Transportation is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To schedule a ride in Dawson County or Lexington call 308-324-3670. Public Transportation is easy to ride and open to everyone.
COZAD HAPPENINGS
The Wilson Public Library will be closed all day Monday, March 30 for spring cleaning and closed Friday, April 3 for Good Friday.
State Sen. Teresa Ibach will be at the Wilson Public Library for a Community Chat at noon on Wednesday, April 8.
Armchair Travels: Tuesday, March 31 at 5:30 p.m. Laurie Yocom will share her family’s recent trip to Oahu, Hawaii at the Wilson Public Library.
Food for Fines at the Wilson Public Library, the entire month of April. A canned food item waives $2 off a patron’s prior fines.
The Wilson Public Library will host a free movie matinee Monday, April 6 at 1:30 p.m.
Design a playground or park during the Wilson Public Library’s Lego Park Challenge Tuesday, April 7 at 4 p.m. Legos and snacks are provided and children under 8-years-old need to attend with a helper.
Dine In/Drive Thru Burger Night Thursday, April 9 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Grand Generation Center.
Cozad Grand Generation Center free drive thru grocery night Thursday, April 14 at 5 p.m.
Meet the candidates running for Cozad offices Tuesday, April 14 at 5:30 p.m. at Cozad Grand Generation Center.
The Writing Society meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Wilson Public Library. Open to all writers of all levels and genres.
Grand Generation Center drive thru free grocery day from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 9.
Nebraska Scams and Fraud Education program at the Cozad Grand Generation Center Tuesday, April 28 at 1 p.m. and at 5:30 p.m. at the Wilson Public Library.
Blacktop Classics Car Show Saturday, June 6 at 11 a.m. in downtown Cozad on Meridian Avenue.
Bands, Brews and BBQs will be held Saturday, July 11 with the Lemon Fresh Day band headlining the night and opener by Heather Wellman. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. More information on ticket sales will be provided at a later date.
Blood Pressure Clinic at the Cozad Grand Generation Center the third Tuesday of every month at 11 a.m.
The Cozad Grand Generation Center has Home Delivered Meals to the Community Monday — Friday. If you would like to receive Home Delivered Meals or would like to pick up a Curbside Meal at 410 W. Ninth St. from 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m., please call us at 308-784-2747 by 9:30 a.m. that morning, so we can arrange everything for your convenience.
The Cozad Grand Generation Center Bus is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. To schedule a ride in Cozad call 308-784-2747.
GOTHENBURG HAPPENINGS
Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 4 at 1:30 p.m. for ages 1-12 years old at the Gothenburg Four-Plex hosted by Dayspring Bank.
Dueling Pianos is making a return to Gothenburg Saturday, April 18 at the YMCA. Doors open at 6 p.m. and pianos start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25.
MILLER HAPPENINGS
The Miller Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled Saturday, April 4 at 10 a.m. at the Miller Village Community Center for ages one to sixth grade.
ON THE BIG SCREEN
LEXINGTON
Majestic Theatre, 615 N. Washington St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $5, Students/Senior Citizens/Child $4
SHOWTIMES:
“Reminders of Him” (PG-13) — March 27-29, April 1; Friday/Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m.
“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” (PG) — April 3-5, 8 and 10-12, 15; Fridays/Saturdays at 7 p.m., Sundays at 6 p.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
“Project Hail Mary” (PG-13) — April 17-19, 22; Friday/Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m.
COZAD
Fox Theater, 100 E. Eighth St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $9, Student/Seniors/Military $8, 5 and under $6.50, Matinee (all ages) $6.50
SHOWTIMES:
“Project Hail Mary” (PG-13) — March 28 — April 2; Saturday/Sunday at 4 and 7 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7 p.m.
“Reminders of Him” (PG-13) — March 28 — April 2; Saturday/Sunday at 4:10 and 7:10 p.m. and Monday-Tuesday at 7:10 p.m.
“Super Mario Galaxy Movie” (PG) — April 1-2; Wednesday and Thursday at 7:20 p.m.
“Hoppers” (PG) — March 28-31; Saturday/Sunday at 4:20 and 7:20 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7:20 p.m.
GOTHENBURG
Sun Theatre, 404 10th St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $5, Child (12 and under) $3, Senior Citizen $4
SHOWTIMES:
“EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” (PG-13) — March 28-29; Friday/Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.
“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” (PG) — April 3-5 and 10-12; Friday/Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.
“Project Hail Mary” (PG-13) — April 17-19; Friday/Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.
PUBLIC LIBRARIES
The Lexington Public Library hours are: Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m. — 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m., Sunday: Closed. Watch for lots of fun programs and activities this summer. Also, we are continuing curbside services; call the library at 308-324-2151 for information.
Novel Stitchers meets on Tuesdays from 3-5 p.m. in the Board Room of the Library.
Storytime meets at the Library on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
The Wilson Public Library normal hours are: Monday-Thursday: 10 a.m. — 7 p.m., Friday: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. and Saturday: 10 a.m. — 1 p.m. Public and private meetings have resumed, with 24-hour notice appreciated. Limits to how many attendees based upon room need, what equipment is available and other restrictions can be found by calling us at 308-784-2019 or stopping at the front desk. Normal policies about room rental can be found under Policies at wilsonpubliclibrary.org.
LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER
The exercise room is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
MONDAY
10 a.m. — Frog
12:45 p.m. — I’ve Got It
TUESDAY
12:45 p.m. — Pool
1 p.m. — Bunco
1 p.m. — Foot Clinic
2:30 p.m. — Hot Cookies
WEDNESDAY
8 a.m. — Miracle Ear
12:45 p.m. — Cards
1 p.m. — Frog
THURSDAY
12:45 p.m. — Farkle
12:45 p.m. — Pool
1 p.m. — Bridge
FRIDAY
12:45 p.m. — Cards
1 p.m. — Frog
LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU
Homemade bread every day. Choice of skim, 2% or chocolate milk. No reservations are needed except for large groups. Serving time: 11:30 a.m. Please call 308-324-2498 by 10 a.m. for delivery or carryout meals.
MONDAY
Beef Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Hominy Casserole, Cold Veggie Salad, Tropical Fruit
TUESDAY
Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy, Baby Bakers, Tomato Medley, Pears
WEDNESDAY
Orange Chicken, Rice with Veggies, Broccoli, Pineapple
THURSDAY
Chuck Wagon Steak with Gravy, Boiled Potatoes, Green Beans, Peaches
FRIDAY
Ham or Fish, Au Gratin Potatoes, Peas and Carrots, Mandarin Oranges, Dinner Roll, Dessert
COZAD GRAND GENERATION CENTER
When Cozad schools are closed due to inclement weather, the center will also be closed. Check KRVN or the TV for weather related closings.
MONDAY
10 a.m. — Free Groceries
1 p.m. — Pitch
5:30 p.m. — ESL Class
TUESDAY
8 a.m. — Tourism Meeting
Noon- Rotary
WEDNESDAY
10 a.m. — Free Groceries
COZAD GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU
Salad Bar is available daily with meals served from 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.
MONDAY
Sloppy Joes, Tater Tots, Peas, Mixed Fruit, Cookies
TUESDAY
Chicken Alfredo, Three Bean Salad, Carrots, Peaches, Ice Cream
WEDNESDAY
BBQ Pork, Baked Beans, Pears, Macaroni Salad, Dessert
THURSDAY
Walking Taco, Corn, Mixed Fruit, Ice Cream
FRIDAY
Ham and Beans, Stewed Tomatoes, Fruit Cocktail, Cornbread, Pumpkin Bars
FARNAM SENIOR CENTER
When Eustis-Farnam Schools are closed due to the weather, the Senior Center will also be closed. Call ahead by 9:30 a.m. to get a meal 308-569-2359.
MONDAY
Pork Roast, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Peaches, Dinner Roll
TUESDAY
Tater Tot Casserole, Green Beans, Fruit Cocktail, Dinner Roll
WEDNESDAY
Beef and Broccoli, Carrot Salad, Pineapple, Rice, Dinner Roll
THURSDAY
Chicken Alfredo, Green Beans, Lettuce Salad, Peaches, Garlic Bread
FRIDAY
Hamburgers, Potato Salad, Cucumber Salad, Apricots
GOSPER COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
All meals are served with vegetables, fruit and a sweet item. Please call before 10 a.m. for your reservation 308-785-2500. Menu is subject to change without notice.
MONDAY
Shepherd’s Pie
TUESDAY
Smothered Burritos
WEDNESDAY
Fried Chicken
THURSDAY
Sloppy Joes
FRIDAY
Soup and Sandwich
ORGANIZATIONS
It Works Group: AA meetings are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. at 303 E. Sixth St., in Lexington.
First Christin Church NA: meets Sundays at 7 p.m., Tuesdays at 8 p.m. 1206 N. Erie St., in Lexington.
Westside Group: AA/NA: open meeting on Monday and Friday nights from 7-8 p.m. Meetings are held at Grace Lutheran Church, 105 E. 17th St., Lexington, use the south door.
Women’s Group: meets every Tuesday from 7-8 p.m. on the second floor lounge at the Dawson County Courthouse (700 N. Washington St.)
Celebrate Recovery: Meetings at 7 p.m. on Fridays at Parkview Baptist Church’s Refuge Building (1105 Park St., Lexington) Contact: 308-324-4410.
Four Roads Group AA: meetings are held on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m., Fridays from 7-8 p.m. and Sundays from 7 p.m. at 1801 W. 18th St., in Lexington.
Grupo Lexington AA (Spanish Speaking): open meetings on Saturdays from 8-9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon at 114 W. 6th St. in Lexington.
Group Nueva Vida Lexington (Spanish Speaking): open meetings on Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m. at 114 W. Eighth St., in Lexington.
Full of Grace: Meetings from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Nazarene Church at 919 H St., in Cozad.
Southview Group: Meetings from 8-9 p.m. on Wednesdays at 1804 Papio Lane in Cozad.
SMART Recovery meets at St. Peter’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 905 East 13th St., Tuesdays and Thursdays 7-8:30 p.m., Saturdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Sumner AA Group: meets Sundays and Tuesdays from 8-9 p.m. at 205 E. Fifth Avenue, in Sumner. For more information call 308-325-5827.
Bertrand Thurs Night Group: Meetings from 8-9 p.m. on Thursdays at Hope Lutheran Church, 74094 Road 436 in Smithfield. Call 308-785-3567 or 308-472-3376.
Odie Group AA/NA: meetings at 8 p.m. on Sundays in Elwood at 501 Calvert Avenue.
Pony Express Group AA: meetings are held from 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Mondays at the Gothenburg Evangelical Free Church (515 18th St.) in Gothenburg.
Thirsty Thursday by the Cemetery: Meetings held on Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church (2002 27th St.) in Gothenburg.
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group meetings are held the second Thursday each month at 2 p.m. at Lexington Regional Health Center (1201 N. Erie St., Lexington). For more information contact Dixie Menke at 308-325-5350.
Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Immunization Clinic, first and third Mondays every month: Open 10 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m. by appointment at 931 W. Seventh St., Lexington. Previous vaccination records required. Contact 308-325-3436 or 308-325-3169.
Dawson/Gosper County CASA: seeking Volunteers. CASA Volunteers are everyday people from all walks of life, who advocate through the court system in the interests of children. Contact 308-324-7364.
LEXINGTON — On March 25, the Dawson County Farm Bureau delivered three bundles of wood line posts to support fire relief efforts in western Dawson County, following historic wildfires that left over 100,000 acres scorched in the Cottonwood fire.
The donation came after Dawson County Farm Bureau convened an emergency board meeting as the fires started spreading across the region.
The Dawson County Farm Bureau deliver and unload fencing supplies to assist livestock producers with recovery efforts after the Cottonwood fire raged through land in southwest Dawson County. Pictured (left to right): Kerry Barnes, Kayle Barnes and Clay Patton, Dawson County Farm Bureau president.
During the board meeting, board members discussed ways that Dawson County Farm Bureau could quickly assist the producers impacted by the disaster and began coordinating resources from across the region.
“As a board, we discussed different ways we could help as our fellow producers faced possible devastation from the fires,” said Dawson County Farm Bureau President Clay Patton. “With a fire this size, fencing is going to be one of the most important parts for recovery after the fire. While our donation is just a small drop in the bucket, combined with the donations from others across the state, it is making a positive impact for those affected by the fires.”
Wildfires often destroy miles of fencing, creating immediate challenges for livestock producers trying to safely manage cattle and other animals.
Donations such as fence posts and wire help producers begin rebuilding infrastructure needed to restore operations after the fire.
County Farm Bureaus are grassroots organizations made up of local farmers and ranchers and are part of the broader Nebraska Farm Bureau network, which connects local efforts with statewide resources and support.
In response to the wildfires, Nebraska Farm Bureau has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to support affected farm and ranch families.
Initial funding will focus on urgent needs such as feed, hay, and fencing replacement as recovery efforts continue.
“The impact of these wildfires is heartbreaking for so many Nebraska families and communities,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue. “This fund allows us to come together and support our neighbors as they begin to rebuild.”
Donations to the relief effort are administered through the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, a charitable nonprofit organization, with 100% of contributions going directly to support those affected.
Individuals or organizations wishing to contribute can donate online at nefb.org/disaster or mail checks payable to Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation with “Disaster Relief” in the memo line to:
Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation
Attn: Disaster Relief Fund
P.O. Box 80299
Lincoln, NE 68501-0299
