News

The Central City Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its eagerly anticipated annual Gala, transforming an evening of mystery and nostalgia into a grand celebration of community excellence and spirit. The “All School Reunion” themed event, masterfully orchestrated by Chamber President Dustin Meyer and fellow board members, successfully merged the charm of reminiscence with the excitement of a high school reunion, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

It was a day of jubilation and joviality at Central City Elementary School as students and staff marked the 100th day of the academic year with a unique twist: while the students celebrated the milestone of a hundred days of learning and growing, the staff joined in with a humorous homage to being a century old.

The Central City Performing Arts Center resonated with melodies and harmonies as it hosted the prestigious Sing Around Nebraska Festival Choir event on Saturday. The clinic, a testament to the Nebraska Choral Directors Association’s commitment to fostering choral excellence, drew budding vocal talent from across the state, converging in a day of workshops culminating in an evening of performance that showcased the musical prowess of Central City’s young choristers.

Edwin Garcia, who has dedicated 16 years of service as the postmaster for Central City and neighboring areas, is set to retire. Marking the end of an era, his last day, January 12th, coincided with the severe snowstorm that battered Merrick County and much of the Midwest. Garcia’s career with the United States Postal Service spans over three decades, with 16 significant years at the helm in Central City, Marquette, Chapman, and Hordville. His leadership ensured the smooth flow of mail and effective management of various responsibilities. Reflecting on his career, Garcia shared, “I think, working with all the employees that have been there for over 30 to 40 years – Cindy Anderson, Dave Benner, Deb Schwarz, and Matt Boling. They’ve been there for many decades, working with all the people in town. And they know everybody. And everybody’s like a family working at the office together.”

Many of us have historical items tucked away somewhere, but this past Sunday some of those local items were the topic of discussion thanks to local residents who shared their story at the Merrick County Historical Museum meeting. Among them was Brad Wells (top left) who shared some pieces of local history pertaining to the Central City Volunteer Fire Department. Bill Bolte shared an item with a personal connection as did Ruth Ferris who shared a photo and story of her mother.

As we enter another spirited election cycle it is time again for local voters to educate themselves before casting their ballot. The Merrick County Republicans met Monday with Janice Stuhmer beginning the meeting where Derek Oden spoke on behalf of Senator Fischer’s campaign.

On December 13th, the Central City FFA chapter attended the district’s Leadership Development Events. FFA members have been practicing for these competitions over the last few months, and their practice really paid off. The Senior Parliamentary Procedure team, which includes Sarah Musil, Dylan Church, Akeyli Bush, Charlee Ryan, Kylie Talbott, Kit Brooks, and Bailey Greving, obtained first place, qualifying them for State. Charlee Ryan also received first place, qualifying for state in Employment Skills. Eli Ferris also qualified for state in Ag Literacy Speaking, and Kalyn Talbott received alternate to state in Ag Literacy Speaking. Janaya Davis also received alternate to state in Creed Speaking. Several other members received ribbons for their hard work. Chloe Jefferson received a blue ribbon in Creed Speaking. Levi Webb received a purple ribbon, and Taylyn Greving received a blue ribbon in Senior Public Speaking. The Ag Demonstration team, which demonstrated how a planter works and how to change the seed plate and monitor, including Braiden Greving, Riley Lavene, Corbin Kyes, Bas Luebbe, and Lincoln Reeves, received a blue ribbon. Dylan Church received a blue ribbon in Junior Public Speaking. Maddie Chrisman received a red ribbon in Employment Skills, and Fyn Fasbender received a red ribbon in Junior Public Speaking. Our middle schoolers also did a great job representing the FFA chapter! Both Sam Johnson and Ellie Graham received blue ribbons for their People in Ag Posters. Ella Larkins and Hailey Brandes received blue ribbons in Discovery Speaking. Our Middle School Quiz Bowl teams also competed well throughout the morning. Congratulations to all of our hard-working members!