Regional notes for October 12

Blood drive Monday, Oct. 17, noon to 5:45 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 2420 W. Omaha Ave., in Norfolk. Donors are asked to use the east entrance. To schedule an appointment online, visit redcrossblood.org or text 402-841-1442 no later than 10 a.m. Monday. Broadband gift to the Winnebago tribe U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, a … Read more

Districts with oldest homes in Nebraska

There’s an undeniable charm that comes with pre-World War II American architecture, with high ceilings, crown molding, hardwoods and ornate details. In fact, 12.8% of all homes in America were built in 1939 or earlier, which shows the popularity of preserving these units. Owning a piece of history can sometimes come with a price: Many … Read more

Briefing: The Joslin Castle and Gardens Board has appointed a new Executive Director

Amy M. Richardson was named executive director of Joslin Castle and Gardens. Richardson has served in various administrative roles for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, including business development and administration at Richard Young Hospital in Kearney, vice president of Nebraska Lutheran Family Service Programs, and president and CEO of Women’s. She led … Read more

In the garden: do not despair, cold weather changes vegetable crops

Dana Freeman of Nebraska Extension in Douglas-Sarpy County says the long day and night temperatures have been hard on orchards. Flowers can be aborted before they set fruit, especially when it’s 95 degrees and above and the soil is dry. That’s been highlighted in beans and tomatoes, Freeman said. Salad tomatoes do better than diced … Read more

On the Day, August 16, 2005: ‘Tommy Lee Goes to College,’ which features UNL, first jobs.

The Nebraska-set reality TV series “Tommy Lee Goes to College” premiered 17 years ago today in two half-hour episodes on NBC. In addition to the former Mötley Crüe drummer, the show spotlights Scottsbluff, Nebraska, native Matt Ellis (as Lee’s roommate) and Omahan Natalie Reedman (as Lee’s “hot nanny”). The real star of the show, however, … Read more

New park, designed for the Old Market, provided input by community members

Omaha, Neb (KMTV) – Downtown Omaha is looking at several plans to revive it. The new plan is an open garden on 13th and Jones. Developers hope to create more gardens, cafes and lawns in the area that now serves as a parking lot. Plans include a rain garden, a garden park, a cafe, a … Read more

Capitol waterfalls highlight the legacy of Lincoln’s landscape architect

Lincoln, Neb. (KOLN) – Landscaping architect Ernest Herminghouse recently visited Lincoln to see the once-designed Nebraska State Capitol squares. “He was a native of Lincoln,” said Bob Ripley, chief executive of the Nebraska Capitol Commission. “Born and raised here, he is a graduate of Lincoln Hayes and a graduate of the University of Nebraska’s Vegetable … Read more

Western Nebraska is lucky to have Estley.

Dr. Amanda Eastley addresses the audience on February 9, 2022, at the High Plains Ag Lab Research Update in Sydney. Nicole Heeldti / Star Herald In a very short period of time, Amanda Easterly has developed her ability to develop comprehensive plans, attention to detail, mentoring and strong emotions. She is an assistant professor of … Read more

Lucinda Mayis shows landscapes on tissue paper

As the sun sets on the grounds of Chadron State College, the landscape offers a colorful spectacle to visitors, an example from Lucinda Meiss on a piece of tissue paper. (Chadron State College / Honor Photo) When she returned to Nebraska, Lucinda Mayes was not sure if she could find public gardening until a discussion … Read more

Avoid cleaning your backyard, even if it is hot

Do not let this week’s hot weather force you to clean up your yard too early. Insects are still relying on leaves and yard debris for shelter and there may be several freezing days. There are many other things to do. “We can pick up trash and debris,” said Scott Evans of Nebraska Extension in … Read more