Education
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Ribbon cutting celebrates new student bank branch at Eustis-Farnam Elementary
Eustis-Farnam Elementary School students watch Tuesday as representatives of Waypoint Bank, Eustis Chamber of Commerce members and school staff cut the ribbon to officially open the school’s student bank branch.
EUSTIS — On Tuesday, Sept. 10, the old gymnasium at Eustis-Farnam Elementary School was filled with enthusiastic elementary school teachers, students, bank employees and members of the Eustis Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of a new student branch of Waypoint Bank in Eustis.
The initiative aims to provide children at Eustis-Farnam Elementary School with a foundational understanding of money management and savings. This program is designed to prepare students for better financial planning as they grow older.
Before the ceremony, sixth-grade students received training from Waypoint Bank employees. The goal was to equip them with the skills to assist younger students in learning basic banking principles. These older students will act as peer educators, sharing the financial skills they’ve acquired with their younger counterparts.
Waypoint Bank Assistant Vice President Tristan Newcomb said the partnership between the bank and the school emerged from her previous work with older students. Part of Newcomb’s role includes visiting fourth-grade classes and high schools to teach banking fundamentals.
Eustis-Farnam Elementary School Principal Taylor Jenner proposed introducing similar financial education programs to elementary-age students. This proposal ultimately led to a collaborative partnership between Eustis-Farnam Elementary School, Waypoint Bank and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The result was the launch of the student bank branch under the School Savings Program initiative.
Newcomb highlighted the type of training the sixth graders received, explaining that they were taught essential banking skills, including how to act as a teller, handle deposits and develop professional relationships with customers. This hands-on experience provided these students with a deeper understanding of banking operations.
“Banking and finance are part of everyone’s everyday lives,” she said. “It’s something everybody needs to know.”
Newcomb stressed the importance of starting financial education early.
“We want to start teaching it at a young age so the kids can be prepared as they get older and are experienced when they have to deal with major financial duties in their lives,” she said.
While the program is geared toward teaching students the value of saving and managing money, some students may still struggle to fully grasp the long-term importance of financial literacy. To address this, Newcomb offered advice to parents, encouraging them to consistently communicate with their children about the value of money and financial planning outside the classroom.
“Teaching kids how important money is will lead to success in their lives,” Newcomb said. “Depending on what they want to buy in the future, whether it’s a car or a house, maybe they’ll have enough cash saved up to make a purchase outright, rather than relying on multiple loans.”
Newcomb expressed her excitement about the future of the program and the opportunities it provides for students.
“We’re really excited to get this branch going. Banking is a big passion of mine, and we just want the kids to be prepared for everyday life and the banking world, and to understand how important it is to save up,” she said.
Government-politics
Featured Top Story
Lexington property tax rate set to drop 1%
The Lexington City Council reviewed the proposed fiscal 2024 budget Tuesday evening after the regular council meeting.
The proposed tax rate for 2024 is 32.17 cents per $100 of taxable value, down 1% from 2023’s 32.56 cents per $100 valuation. The city’s total property valuation rose 6% from 2023 to 2024, from $525,128,851 to $558,471,717. The total property tax request increased 5% from 2023 to 2024, rising from $1,709,848.19 to 1,796,504.17.
Due to the 6% increase in property values, the tax levy is expected to decrease by 1%, according to City Manager Joe Pepplitsch. The additional property tax revenue will be allocated to the police department and the development of new housing infrastructure. Overall, the total property tax is projected to remain under $1.8 million, with an additional $100,000 designated for public transit services.
The city’s operating budget will drop 3% from $55,488,338 to $53,982,086.
Pepplitsch emphasized the importance of community feedback during this stage of the budget planning process, inviting the public to provide input on the proposed budget. No members of the public spoke during the budget hearing Tuesday.
During the regular council meeting, Pepplitsch presented the city’s comprehensive plan, which the council unanimously approved later in the session. emphasized that, Rather than delving into the entirety of the 100-plus-page document, Pepplitsch provided a summary highlighting key updates related to housing, neighborhood improvements and operational facilities such as the convention center and Memorial Park.
One of the notable aspects of the comprehensive plan was the focus on population growth and demographic changes. Pepplitsch said an increase in the number of residents under the age of 19 presents both challenges and opportunities for educational and employment growth. He further outlined population projections for the city, with an expected population of 11,500 to 13,000 by 2030. To accommodate this growth, the plan includes a goal of constructing 500 to 900 new housing units.
The comprehensive plan also addresses the need for improved traffic management and floodplain considerations, recognizing the importance of infrastructure development alongside population growth. Pepplitsch noted that the city’s strategies include addressing housing needs, supporting the adult population and expanding senior care options to ensure that the community’s aging population is adequately cared for.
In his review, Pepplitsch acknowledged the progress that has been made since the last comprehensive plan. “Many of the goals outlined in the previous plan have been partially or fully achieved,” he said, citing accomplishments in areas such as population growth and housing development. The current plan includes a checklist of objectives, including the creation of housing facilities, maintenance of the adult population and expansion of services for senior residents.
In addition to approving the comprehensive plan, the council unanimously approved a $181,082.50 pay request from Walters Morgan Construction for the 2021 Wastewater Facility Improvements project.
Around Town
The AroundTown section of the Clipper-Herald is to notify the public of upcoming events and to publicize pertinent information from individuals, groups or service organizations.
LEXINGTON HAPPENINGS
The Lexington Public Library will host a ‘Latinos: Searching for the Good Life in Nebraska’ presentation by Nebraska native Ben Salazar on Thursday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.
Trinity Lutheran LWML will hold their annual fall salad luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the church fellowship hall at 205 E. Seventh St. in Lexington. Proceeds will benefit mission projects both locally and abroad. A freewill offering will be taken at the door.
The Lexington Public Library is hosting a ‘Meet your neighbor family fun night’ on Thursday, Sept. 18 at 5:30 p.m.
Lexington Revival held at the Dawson County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday, Sept. 22 at 5 p.m.
Transportation Celebration at the Jim Kelly Airport on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Lexington Public Library is hosting a ‘Lunch Learn’ with author JoAnn Bjorkman on Tuesday, Sept. 17 from noon to 1 p.m. Please register as space is limited. Contact 308-324-2151.
Prime Time Family Reading Time is held every Friday until Oct. 11 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Lexington Public Library. To register please visit the library.
The Lexington Regional Hospital Auxiliary meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at the Lexington Regional Health Center at 1:30 p.m. until May 2025.
Join the Grief Share weekly support group meetings are every Thursday until Nov. 14 from 6:30-8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church. Located at 201 E. Eighth St., Lexington. Contact Deb Conley for more information at 308-236-3485.
The Lexington Public Library hosts weekly Leadership Development Classes on Mondays until Nov. 4. Registration fee is $60. Register at elcaminopdl@gmail.com.
The Grand Generation Center currently has Farmers Market Coupons available for eligible individuals in our community. To qualify, individuals must meet specific age and income requirements. For more details and to determine if you qualify, please feel free to contact us at 308-324-2498 and ask to speak with Whitney.
The Dawson County History Museum is hosting “Coffee with Carol” the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon.
The Dawson County Democrats meet at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Lexington Public Library in the Heritage Room.
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
Join the Wilson Public Library for a Supermoon party on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m. as part of their 1,000 Hours Outside program.
Armchair Travels: Chuck Birgen, traveler aficionado, on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the Wilson Public Library.
The Wilson Public Library is hosting a free movie matinee to celebrate National Good Neighbor Day on Monday, Sept. 23 at 1:30 p.m.
An open book club is being held at the Wilson Public Library board room on Monday, Sept. 16 from 10-11 a.m.
BINGO at the Library on Friday, Oct. 4 from 3-4 p.m. at the Wilson Public Library. Popcorn will be provided and prizes awarded to winners.
Oktoberfest at The Frontier Frau starting Saturday, Sept. 21.
Cozad’s Farmer Market at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Saturdays until the end of October. Open 8-10 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.
FARNAM HAPPENINGS
The Farnam Senior Center is hosting a free will donation potato bar lunch on Sunday, Sept. 22 starting at 11:30 a.m.
ELWOOD HAPPENINGS
Join the Hi-Line wrestling team for a free will donation prime rib sandwich meal on Sunday, Sept. 15 at Elwood City Park from 5-7 p.m. Proceeds will go to the wrestlers to hep with summer camps, singlets or extra tournaments.
GOTHENBURG HAPPENINGS
Wizard of Oz Trivia Night at the Gothenburg Sun Theatre on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. $20 per team of 2-6 and $30 per team of 7-9. Call or text 402-413-5747 to register your team.
The Harvest Festival Cornhole Tournament, beer garden and live music on Saturday, Sept. 21 in front of the Sun Theatre. Cornhole begins at 4 p.m. and is $20 per team until Sept. 13. Register at the Chamber of Commerce.
ON THE BIG SCREEN
LEXINGTON:
Majestic Theatre, 615 N. Washington St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $5, Students/Senior Citizens $4, Child (4 and under) $3
Showtimes:
Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
“Harold and the Purple Crayon” (PG) — Sept. 13-15 and Sept. 18
“Transformers One” (PG) — Sept. 20-22 and Sept. 25 ; Sept. 27-29 and Oct. 2
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:
‘Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” (PG-13) — Sept.13-19; Friday at 7:20 p.m., Saturday/Sunday at 4:20 and 7:20 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7:20 p.m.
“Speak No Evil” (R) — Sept. 13-19; Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday/Sunday at 4 and 7 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7 p.m.
“The Forge” (PG) — Sept. 13-19; Friday at 7:10 p.m., Saturday/Sunday at 4:10 and 7:10 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7:10 p.m.
Coming soon to Cozad: Transformers One on Sept. 20, Wild Robot on Sept. 27 and Joker: Folie a Deux on Oct. 4.
GOTHENBURG:
Sun Theatre, 404 10th St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $5, Child (12 and under) $3, Senior Citizen $4
Showtimes:
“Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” (PG) — Sept. 13-15; Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.
“Reagan” (PG-13) — Sept. 27-29; Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 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. Watch for lots of fun programs and activities throughout the year at https://libraries.ne.gov/lexington/.
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. Normal policies about room rental can be found under Policies at wilsonpubliclibrary.org.
LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER
Exercise room is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
MONDAY
10:30 a.m. — Frog
12:45 p.m. — I’ve Got It
6:30 p.m. — Bingo
TUESDAY
12:45 p.m. — Pool
1 p.m. — Bunco
1 p.m. — Foot Clinic
2:30 p.m. — Pretzels
WEDNESDAY
12:45 p.m. — Cards
1 p.m. — Frog
2:30 p.m. — Hot Cookies
THURSDAY
9 a.m. — Steering Committee
12:45 p.m. — Farkle
FRIDAY
12:45 p.m. — Cards
1 p.m. — Frog
LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU
Homemade bread everyday. Choice of skim, 2% or chocolate milk. No reservations 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
Cubed Pork in Gravy, Potato Casserole, Three Bean Bake, Peaches
TUESDAY
Beef Stroganoff, Wax Beans, Stewed Tomatoes, Apple Slices
WEDNESDAY
Parmesan Chicken, Potatoes with Veggies, Buttered Cabbage, Fresh Fruit
THURSDAY
Ham, Scalloped Potatoes, Peas and Carrots, Mixed Fruit
FRIDAY
Bacon Wrapped Pork Kebobs, Hashbrown Casserole, Tomato Medley, Fresh Fruit, Dessert
COZAD GRAND GENERATION CENTER
MONDAY
10 a.m. — Free Groceries
2 p.m. — Pitch
TUESDAY
Noon — Rotary
1 p.m. — Bridge
WEDNESDAY
11 a.m. — Free Groceries
4-6 p.m. — Farmer’s Market
COZAD GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU
Salad Bar available daily with meals served from 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.
MONDAY
Ham Salad Sandwich, Potato Soup, Pears, Veggie Sticks, Cherry Crisp
TUESDAY
Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, Coleslaw, Frog Eye Salad, Peaches, Ice Cream
WEDNESDAY
Chicken Alfredo, Green Beans, Red Hot Applesauce, Ice Cream
THURSDAY
Liver and Onions or Cook’s Choice, Au Gratin Potatoes, Corn, Mixed Fruit, Ice Cream
FRIDAY
Sloppy Joes, Macaroni Salad, Baked Beans, Tater Tots, Pineapple, Cake
FARNAM SENIOR CENTER
When Eustis-Farnam Schools are closed due to weather, the Senior Center will also be closed.
MONDAY
Salisbury Steak, Baked Potato, Cauliflower, Apple Salad, Dinner Roll
TUESDAY
Taco Bake, Mixed Veggies, Carrot Salad, Rosy Pears, Dinner Roll
WEDNESDAY
Oven Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Applesauce, Dinner Roll
THURSDAY
Pork Roast, Cheesy Hashbrowns, Peas and Carrots, Pineapple
FRIDAY
Meatloaf, Diced Potatoes, Carrots, Peaches, Dinner Roll
GOSPER COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
All meals served with a vegetable, fruit and a sweet item. Please call by 9:30 a.m. for your reservation 308-775-2500.
MONDAY
Tater Tot Casserole
TUESDAY
BBQ Chicken
WEDNESDAY
Swedish Meatballs
THURSDAY
Hamburger Bar
FRIDAY
Potato Soup and Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
GOTHENBURG SENIOR CENTER MENU
Please call in for your reservation by 9:30 a.m.
MONDAY
Hot Turkey Sandwich, Mashed Potatoes, Scandinavian Veggies, Fruit Cocktail, Pumpkin Muffin
TUESDAY
Tuna Noodle Casserole, Peas, Tossed Salad, Applesauce
WEDNESDAY
Meatloaf, Baked Potato, Brussel Sprouts, Pears, Garlic Bread
THURSDAY
Ham, Potato Casserole, Cali Blend Veggies, Bananas, Cheddar Biscuit
FRIDAY
Stir Fry Chicken, Stir Fry Veggies, Fumi Salad, Mixed Fruit, Rice
ORGANIZATIONS
AA Cozad: Meetings at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Nazarene Church at 919 H St. in Cozad.
Westside Group: AA/NA: open meeting on Monday and Friday nights at 7 p.m. Meetings are held at Grace Lutheran Church, 105 E. 17th St., Lexington, use the south door.
Celebrate Recovery: a 12-step, anonymous program helping participants overcome any hurts, habits, addictions or hang-ups. Meets at 7 p.m. on Fridays at Parkview Baptist Church’s Refuge (Parkview South Campus), 1105 Park St. Contact: 308-324-4410.
Four Roads Group AA: Meetings are held on Tuesdays at noon, Fridays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 6 p.m. at 1801 W. 18th St. in Lexington.
Women’s Group AA: Meetings are held on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Dawson County Courthouse (700 N. Washington St.) in Lexington.
It Works Group: AA meetings are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at noon at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 303 E. 6th St. in Lexington.
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.
Grupo Lexington AA (Spanish Speaking): open meeting Saturday nights at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m., at 114 W. 6th St. in Lexington.
Grupo Nueva Vida AA (Spanish Speaking): Meetings are held on Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m. at 114 W. 8th St. in Lexington.
AA Elwood: at 7 p.m. on Sundays at United Methodist Church, 601 Rush in Elwood.
Al-Anon: meets Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at the United Church of Sumner, 504 Main St., Sumner. For more information call 308-325-5827.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, non-smoking: in Smithfield at 8 p.m. on Thursdays at Hope Lutheran Church, 74098 Road 436 in Smithfield. Call 308-785-3567 or 308-472-3376.
Pony Express Group AA: Meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays at the Gothenburg Evangelical Free Church (515 18th St) in Gothenburg.
AA Gothenburg: Meetings held at the Trinity Lutheran Church (2002 27th St.) on Thursdays at 7 p.m. in Gothenburg.
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group Meetings are held the second Thursday each month at 2 p.m. in the education room at the Community Health & Fitness Center (1600 W. 13th St., Lexington). For more information contact Dixie Menke at 308-325-5350.
American Legion in Lexington meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles.
Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Public Immunization Clinic, first and third Mondays every month: Open 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m. by appointment at 931 W. Seventh St., Lexington. Clinics serve ages 2 months — 18 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult, previous vaccination records required. Contact 308-865-1352 ext. 143.
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.
The Lexington Lions Club meets the fourth Monday every 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.
