Would you like to sleep better, have a healthier heart and less aches and pains? How about a lower blood pressure, a higher self -esteem and enhanced relationships? Would you believe that the Mayo Clinic and Harvard University, as well as other scientist all say these benefits can be yours with very little effort. And it doesn’t require a change in your diet or excessive exercise!

Southern Valley FBLA held their installation of officers and new member induction on Thursday, November 21 before the Fall Fine Arts Festival. New officers for 2024-2025 are President, Sam Bantam; Vice President, Colby Noel; Secretary, Adi Hunt; Treasurer, Trey Broeker; Reporter, Shandlyn Green; Historian, Raiden Rickert; Parliamentarian, Tylor Grove.

This Thanksgiving is a perfect moment to reflect on the many blessings we have as Nebraskans and as Americans. Our nation has its challenges, but there is so much we can be thankful for. As I travel across our great state, I meet with neighbors in towns large and small. I’ve been reminded again and again of the strength, decency, and character of the people here in Nebraska. So let us pause, give thanks, and remember what makes our state and country truly special.

Giving Trees are up in the area. The trees give area residents an opportunity to help those with children who may be in need this holiday season. In Oxford, the Giving Trees are sponsored by the Oxford Ministerial Association. There are tags on trees at South Central State Bank and at Village Mercantile. Those wanting to help are asked to choose a tag from the trees, purchase the gift listed on the tag, and return the wrapped gift to either Village Mercantile or the bank. The tag chosen must be attached to the wrapped gift.

I would like to thank everyone who sent cards, gifts, and birthday wishes for my 80th birthday. It made my day special. I would also like to thank my children for throwing the surprise party. It was nice visiting with friends and family.

We talked about vehicles last week and we’re going to again this week. With the Gerlach fleet of vehicles, of which there are now four, lights adorn the dashboard. There’s check engine lights, tire inflation lights and then there’s something called “service stabilitrak,” whatever that means. You learn to live with these.

NCTA hosts LDE Public Speaking Contest.

Kerri Jo Hansen celebrated her 40th birthday on Saturday with a party planned by her parents, John and Tammy Hansen. They started out with a bowling party in Burwell in the afternoon. Her Uncle Tracy and Aunt Sheila Adkisson of Farnam prepared the evening meal for about 80 family and friends which was held at the Legion Club in Burwell. Among family attending were Todd and Tricia Grabenstein of Smithfield, Isaac and Cailey Terrazas of Arnold, Kenneth and Ginger Adkisson, Derek and Jordan Aden, Chelsea, Mackenzie and Berkley of Farnam, Jody Hansen, Ardis Hansen and her Aunt Sherry and husband of North Platte, Bill and Teresa Babcock of Long Pine, Kyle and Johanna Babcock, Millie, Liam and Henry of Bassett, Ashley and Jan Babcock of Burwell. On Saturday night, Kerri Jo and her mother, Tammy, Aunt Teresa and Aunt Tricia flew out of Grand Island to go to Branson, Mo. for a few days of fun.

We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers for Dennis McFarland. Your support has given us much comfort.

Small Town Christmas has been scheduled for Friday, December 6, 2024 . Open House events at local businesses will be from 1-4 p.m., a bake sale will be held at the Senior Center 3-7 p.m., firetruck rides and Santa will be from 4-6 p.m.