galloping west - norris public power district · severe storms hit norris public power district a...
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Official Publication ofJULY/AUGUST 2017 | Vol. 62 | No. 4
GALLOPING WESTWITH THE PONY EXPRESS
Keith Klover with his horse, Vintage Step “Vinnie”.“Dedicated to Serving You”(USPS-391-880)
Published Bi-Monthly byNORRIS PUBLIC POWER DISTRICT 606 Irving Street, P. O. Box 399 Beatrice, NE 68310-0399Phone: (402) 223-4038www.norrisppd.comemail: [email protected] Rates: Fifty cents per issue
Postmasters send notices and returns to:Norris Public Power District 606 Irving Street P. O. Box 399 Beatrice, NE 68310-0399
Periodicals Postage Paid at Lincoln, Nebraska and additional offices
Board Meeting InformationUnless otherwise notified by the General Manager, regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held monthly on the first Wednesday of each month. The Directors shall hold their meetings at the principal office of the District, or at such other place or places as the Board may from time to time determine. Notice of regular meeting shall be given as provided by law.
Officers and DirectorsStewart Huneke, President Subdivision V, WilberJohn Novotny, Vice-President Subdivision VIII, OdellMark Knobel, Secretary Subdivision VII, FairburyGary Kroese, Treasurer Subdivision III, AdamsBerneal Warner, Subdivision I, WaverlyDennis Buel, Subdivision II, HickmanKenneth Myers, Subdivision IV, HolmesvilleRandy Steinhausen, Subdivision VI, LincolnRoger Rada, Subdivision IX, TobiasRodney Heinrichs, Subdivision X, CarletonBruce Tegtmeier, Subdivision XI, JansenTom Sieck, Subdivision XII, Pleasant DaleDennis Hentzen, Subdivision XIII, Seward
ON THE COVERKeith Klover, a member of the National Pony Express Association, keeps history alive by carrying personal and commemorative letters in a padlocked mochila (Spanish for “knapsack”), as part of the 157th Pony Express Re-ride.
“The pony-rider was usually a little bit of a man, brimful of spirit and endurance.” — Mark Twain
NORRIS PUBLIC POWER DISTRICT CONTACT NUMBERSMain Office – Area IIIBeatrice: (402) 223-4038 Toll Free: 1-800-858-4707 Hours: M – F 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Area IHebron: (402) 768-6515 Toll Free: 1-800-827-8099 Hours: M – F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed each day from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Area IIRoca: (402) 794-9900 Toll Free: 1-800-743-3899 Hours: M – F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Area IVSeward: (402) 643-2951 Hours: M – F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Bruce VitoshGeneral Manager/[email protected]
Jerry EnnsManager of [email protected]
Trevor WehrerManager of Operations and [email protected]
Michelle JunkerManager of Finance and [email protected]
Vicky JurgensNorris Electric News Magazine [email protected]
Emily ShockleyAdministrative [email protected]
Official Publication of
JULY/AUGUST 2017 | Vol. 62 | No. 4
GALLOPING WESTWITH THE PONY EXPRESS
@NorrisPPD
PAGE
3 Watt’s Up At Norris Public Power District - Severe Storms Hit Norris - Mutual Aid Pact
PAGES
4/5 District News
- Don’t Strike Out On Energy Savings
PAGE
6 Dedicated Years of Service
- Employee Service Anniversaries
PAGE
7 Internships and Summer Jobs
- Learning And Earning
PAGES
8/9 Pony Express Re-Ride
- The Mail Must Go Through
IssueINSIDE THIS
PAGE
10 Retirement Celebration
- Bruce Liesveld – Construction Supervisor
PAGE
11 Pole Inspection Project
- At Work In Your Neighborhood
PAGES
12/13 Economic Development – Shrimp Farming in Nebraska - Rock Creek Aquaculture
PAGES
14/15 Youth Tour 2017
- Rural Youth Leadership Development
PAGE
16 Community Events Calendar
JULY/AUGUST 2017Vol. 62 | No. 4
Severe Storms Hit Norris Public Power DistrictA line of intense supercell thunderstorms developed over northeast Nebraska during the afternoon hours of Friday, June 16, 2017. These storms progressed toward the south and east through the evening, progressively morphing into a sweeping line of storms with embedded areas of both supercells and intense bow echoes. While the entire line produced widespread reports of wind damage and hail across a large portion of eastern Nebraska, the most intense activity in the Norris
service territory was straight line winds reported to be in excess of 100 miles per hour. Outage reports were received from customers in all six counties Norris provides electric service. The most significant damage to the electric infrastructure was in Gage County and to a lesser extent in Lancaster County. Norris does appreciate the cooperation, understanding and patience exhibited by customers as power was being restored.
Mutual Aid PactMutual aid is documented in an agreement among utilities stating they may be available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week to provide personnel, equipment and material assistance during emergency situations.
The June 16, 2017 storm initially left approximately 3,000 Norris customers without power due to significant damage to 70 subtransmission poles and 50 distribution poles.
Linemen from Butler Public Power District (David City), Cornhusker Public Power District (Columbus), Perennial
Public Power District (York), Polk County Rural Public Power District (Stromsburg) and South Central Public Power District (Nelson) responded to Norris’ request for mutual aid to assist with outage restoration efforts. The five neighboring districts sent twenty-four linemen who assisted Norris crews in repairing electrical lines damaged by the storm. The additional crews dramatically increased response time to customers by getting the power back on for all customers within 48 hours.
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
WATT’S UP AT NORRIS PUBLIC POWER DISTRICT 3
When you pick up the newspaper in the morning or view it online, what is the first
thing you want to read? Many sports fans will bypass all of the national and local news and glance at the sports headlines. Baseball fans may quickly bypass the sports headlines and review the baseball page that is full of statistical information, including the American and National League standings, box scores and information about the teams and players. Kansas City Royals fans, for example, will study the Kansas City box score to see how the players performed during the previous night’s game.
In similar fashion to baseball enthusiasts, Norris Public Power District gauges its performance by studying electric industry and internal statistical information. The District will review its version of the box scores and utilize the statistics when making financial, operational and business decisions. For instance, Norris is working with a rate consultant to identify the costs related to serving each class of customers. The cost of service analysis will enable the District to develop a rate transition plan that will equitably share the financial savings associated with the recent merger among the Norris and Seward County Public Power District legacy customers. The transition plan will move the Norris and Seward rate schedules into a single rate schedule for each customer class over a reasonable amount of time.
Throughout the history of baseball, there are legends that recorded exceptional pitching and batting statistics that are far superior in comparison to the other thousands of baseball players that have played the game. As a consumer of electricity, do you wonder how your electric bill stacks up against other customers?
The table on page five provides a summary of monthly residential customer and energy charges. The table does not include lease fees, gross revenue taxes or sales taxes that are required to be collected by the District for state, city or county use. It is important when performing a comparison to your own electric bill to use an average of a twelve month time period because of the monthly fluctuations due to weather conditions and a difference in summer and winter rates.
Many factors contribute to the consumption of electricity, including some factors that are controllable and others that are out of your control, such as the weather. Customers can impact their electric bill with lifestyle choices with the setting on a thermostat; the number and amount of time that electronic devices are plugged into the wall outlet; whether to keep the blinds or drapes closed or open; the replacement of air conditioner filters; blocking drafts from doors and windows; and other energy efficiency practices.
The District has an App called SmartHub that provides customers with convenient account access and detailed information about energy consumption. A new feature in SmartHub allows customers to not only see the kilowatt-hour usage, but also the energy charges on an hourly, daily or monthly basis. It is important to note that the energy charges provided in
Are you a customer interested in using SmartHub?SmartHub lets you see detailed usage from your account. Use this information to stay within a budget, monitor usage, manage energy efficiency and more.
Available in the iPhone AppStore or in the Google Play Store.
N O R R I S E L E C T R I C N E W S
DISTRICT NEWS
Don’t Strike Out on Energy Savings
Bruce VitoshGeneral Manager/CEO
4
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
DISTRICT NEWS
the App do not include monthly customer charges or any of the lease or tax fees. Customers that are interested in lowering their electric bill may choose to monitor activities in and around their homes to determine how these activities correspond to energy consumption and charges.
Baseball fans study and peruse the daily box scores for the love of baseball. Norris customers may choose to study and review their habits and electrical consumption for the joy of saving money and becoming more energy efficient.
How does your average monthly bill compare to other Norris customers?The table below divides each residential customer rate class into thirds based on the 2016 average monthly bill and provides the range of monthly customer and energy charges for each group of customers, which excludes lease fees, gross revenue and sales taxes. By comparing your 2016 average
monthly customer and energy charges without the fees and taxes to the table, you can determine how your monthly bill compares to other Norris customers. It is important to compare your average monthly bills using a twelve month time period due to the monthly fluctuations in bills.
2016 Average Monthly Customer and Energy Charges by Rate Class
Rate Schedule 1 Farm and Rural
Residential
Rate Schedule 2 Farm and Rural
ResidentialAll-Electric
Rate Schedule 3 Town, Village
and Community Residential
Rate Schedule 4 Town, Village
and Community ResidentialAll-Electric
Lowest Range $26.00 - $118.17 $26.00 - $168.32 $17.50 - $81.97 $17.50 - $129.95Middle Range $118.18 - $165.38 $168.33 - $217.08 $81.98 - $122.93 $129.96 - $173.63Highest Range $165.39-$1,437.23 $217.09-$1,235.97 $122.94-$675.08 $173.64-$676.71
5
E M P L O Y E E S E R V I C E
ANNIVERSARIESSupervisor of Consumer Accounting
Deb began her career at Norris
Public Power District in 1977
as a summer employee. Deb
became a full-time employee on
August 22, 1977 as a Secretary/
Clerk in the Administration
Department. In 1978, Deb
transferred to the position of
Billing Clerk, which later transformed into the position of Consumer
Accounting Assistant in 1989. Deb was promoted in 1997 to Consumer
Information Specialist. Deb was later promoted in 2001 into her
current position as Supervisor of Consumer Accounting.
Deb and her husband, Gary, live on an acreage near Beatrice.
Their daughter, Lindsey, lives in Lincoln and their son, Mike and
wife, Angela along with their children, Sawyer and Guinevere
live in Beatrice. When not working, Deb participates in volunteer
activities, enjoys reading and loves spending time with her family!
“My job is very interesting and I enjoy the challenges that go along with
it. My coworkers, both past and present, are a joy to work with, as are
the many customers I have assisted over the years. I really appreciate the
District keeping up with technology, which allows all employees to serve
our customers in the best way possible. “
Deb Keyes
40 YEARS
Foreman
Nolan worked at Norris Public
Power District as a student
intern in 2006. After graduating
from Northeast Community
College in Norfolk with a Utility
Line Degree, he was hired by the
District on August 27, 2007 as an
Apprentice Lineman in the Area
II office located in Roca. In August 2011, Nolan attained the position
of Journeyman Lineman. Nolan was promoted to his current
position of Foreman on October 31, 2016.
Nolan and his wife, Marissa, live in Hickman with their two boys
Knox, who is four years old, and Nash, who is two years old, along
with their dog Harley. Nolan’s hobbies include fishing, hunting,
going to the lake with his family, taking Knox and Nash on gator
rides and spending time with his family and friends.
“Working at Norris the past ten years has been a very fun experience. I
enjoy working outside and doing something different every day. Doing
something different always makes my job interesting and fun. I also
have the opportunity to work with a great group of guys as well.”
Nolan Whalen
10 YEARS
Accounting Assistant
Crystal began her career at
Norris Public Power District on
August 5, 2002 as a Customer
Service Representative in
Beatrice. In March 2006, she
was promoted to the position of
Accounts Payable Assistant.
Crystal and her husband, Ron,
live in Beatrice with their children, Jacob and James. In Crystal’s
spare time, she keeps busy with her kids’ sporting activities,
attending Husker football games, golfing and spending time with
family and friends.
“I have had the pleasure to work with so many great coworkers and
management over the past fifteen years. I am grateful to be part of the
Norris family.”
Crystal Scholl
15 YEARS
Maintenance Technician
Dave began working at Norris
Public Power District on August
29, 2007 as a Maintenance
Technician. Dave works in the
Technical Services Department
and is responsible for the
installation, troubleshooting and
maintenance of the District’s oil
and gas filled equipment, which includes transformers, voltage
regulators, oil circuit reclosers and other related equipment.
Dave lives in Beatrice with his wife, Becky, their son Logan who is
a senior and their daughter Makenna who is a freshman at Beatrice
Public Schools. In Dave’s spare time, he enjoys attending the kids’
activities, camping, golfing, fishing and working in the yard.
“Technology has made Norris an exciting place to work. The constant
improvement to substation automation and the implementation
of advanced meter infrastructure has greatly improved reliability
and customer service. The dedication of Norris’ employees to their
customers is amazing.”
Dave Hutt
10 YEARS
N O R R I S E L E C T R I C N E W S
DEDICATED YEARS OF SERVICE6
Learning and EarningNorris Public Power District has temporarily hired seven interns and two seasonal employees to assist District personnel during the construction season. Interns have the opportunity to work alongside experienced linemen gaining valuable industry experience through employment.
“Norris’ internship program provides an opportunity for students to learn about the utility business while gaining hands-on experience in a real work environment,” said Trevor Wehrer, Manager of Operations and Safety.
Area I – FairburySpencer WurmIntern
Spencer is from Fairbury and attends Metropolitan
Community College, majoring in Utility Line.
Area I – HebronAaron HinzIntern
Aaron is from Hebron and has graduated from Metropolitan
Community College, majoring in Utility Line.
Area II – CentervilleTyler CarstensSummer Helper
Tyler is from Lincoln and attends Northeast Community
College, majoring in Drafting/Architecture.
Ted GyhraIntern
Ted is from Pawnee City and attends Metropolitan
Community College, majoring in Utility Line.
Lucas TrauernichtIntern
Lucas is from Pickrell and attends Northeast
Community College, majoring in Utility Line.
Area III – BeatriceConner LuskIntern
Conner is from Beatrice and attends Northeast Community
College, majoring in Utility Line.
Eric MarshallIntern
Eric is from Lincoln and attends Metropolitan
Community College, majoring in Utility Line.
Area IV – SewardTalon TesinaIntern
Talon is from Bee and attends Northeast Community
College, majoring in Utility Line.
Right-of-Way Department – Beatrice
Dylan SteffensSummer Helper
Dylan is from Beatrice and plans to attend Midland University,
majoring in Athletic Training.
Dave Hutt, Maintenance Technician, instructs intern students Ted, Lucas, Conner and Talon on how to adjust the controls on a voltage regulator.
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
INTERNSHIPS AND SUMMER JOBS 7
Keith Klover, from Wymore, Nebraska, has
spent many years of his life caring for and assuring the delivery of precious cargo to expecting patrons. Keith is very well known at businesses and residences located in southeast Nebraska during the twenty-five years he spent delivering packages door-to-door while working for the United Parcel Service (UPS). Keith’s years of service and commitment to his customers while at UPS are remarkable. Even more notable is the fact that Keith has carried precious cargo annually, since 1981, for thirty-six years as a member of the National Pony Express Association, Inc. (NPEA).
Each year since 1980, NPEA members ride the original trail, relaying mail by horse and rider, in a 10-day, non-stop, 1,966 mile, eight state re-ride event. The trail runs through Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming,
Utah, Nevada and California. The mail delivered by means of the 2017 Pony Express re-ride, left St. Joseph, Missouri on June 5th and arrived in Sacramento, California on June 15th. This year was the NPEA’s 157th annual revival of the Pony Express and was
chosen as an official event to celebrate Nebraska’s 150th birthday. This year’s keepsake commemorative letter honored Nebraska’s sesquicentennial, describing the Great Platte River Road’s history and highlighting Nebraska’s iconic trail feature, Chimney Rock.
The Pony Express ceased operation in October 1861 with completion of the Western Union’s transcontinental telegraph. Despite hazards of weather, terrain, Indians, and outlaws, the heroic riders completed some 300 plus runs each way over 600,000 miles and carried more than 33,000 pieces of mail. Each trip averaged ten miles per hour over ten days. President Abraham Lincoln’s Inaugural Address
www.nationalponyexpress.org
“My wife, Kathy, is a history nut and I love horses, so being a member of the NPEA combines both of our interests and is a honorable way for Kathy and I to preserve a piece of American history together.
– Keith Klover
Keith Klover swiftly transfers the mochila to fellow member, Doug Holle. Speed was crucial to the original Pony Express riders.
N O R R I S E L E C T R I C N E W S
PONY EXPRESS RE-RIDE8
National Pony Express Association member Keith Klover, riding Boots, carries the 1996 Olympic Torch on its way to the Olympic games.
was delivered in seven days and seventeen hours.
The postage charge per each message passing through the Pony Express’ system, at first, was $5.00 per half ounce, but the company soon reduced it to $1.00, with the customers’ correspondence written on tissue-like paper, rolled pencil thin, and protectively wrapped in oiled silk. Riders rode in stormy darkness when only the flashes of lightning permitted them to see their horse’s ears and in
the light of day when they became moving targets.
On commencing employment, each man was supplied with a saddle, bridle, handgun and Bible. The rider had to swear to and sign the frontier pledge of loyalty, honesty and sobriety that was on the inside front cover of the Bible. Today, NPEA riders continue to receive Bibles and take the Oath prior to their ride as they keep the memory of the short-lived Pony Express mail service alive. With riders as young as fourteen
years old joining the association and children p a r t i c ip at i n g with their families, the A m e r i c a n legacy of the Great Race Against Time will long live on.
Precious CargoKeith and other NPEA riders had a once-in-a-lifetime experience when they carried the 1996 Olympic Torch. The NPEA riders carried the torch on a 544 mile route from Colorado through Nebraska and Kansas to Missouri. NPEA equestrians were the only group to participate in the torch relay on horseback and among few of the relay’s participants to carry the Torch nonstop, day and night.
The torch was ignited in Olympia, Greece and began its journey to the Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. NPEA riders traveled as close as possible to the route of the original Pony Express and carried the Olympic Torch on many dirt roads. The torch was closely guarded by the carriers on horseback to ensure the flame was never extinguished.
Doug Holle, Odell, Nebraska, takes the Pony Express Oath prior to mounting his horse and carrying the mail further west on the route. To carry on the Holle time-honored family tradition of riding in the annual re-ride event, Doug is wearing his father’s NPEA, yellow scarf and his cowboy hat in remembrance and honor of his father, Willis Holle.
The Oath“I, Doug Holle, do hereby swear, before the great and living God, that during my engagement, as a member of the National Pony Express Association Re-Ride, I will, under no circumstances use profane language, that I will drink no intoxicating liquors, that I will not quarrel or fight with any other member of the Association, and that in every respect, I will conduct myself honestly, be faithful to my duties and so direct all my acts as to win the confidence of my associates. So help me God.”
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
PONY EXPRESS RE-RIDE 9
Bruce Liesveld’s Time To Live Well, Laugh Often and Golf Much
After more than thirty-seven years of service at Norris Public Power District, Bruce Liesveld retired from the District on June 30, 2017. Bruce began his career at Norris on December 1, 1979 as an Apprentice Lineman in Roca. Bruce also served in the positions of Journeyman Lineman, Construction Foreman and until his retirement, served as a Construction Supervisor.
As Construction Supervisor, Bruce was responsible for scheduling
all activities of the construction crews. Most essentially, Bruce was accountable for the safety of employees under his supervision. Safety is a team effort at Norris, and the District was fortunate to have Bruce
who was an extremely dedicated supervisor and understood his responsibilities. Bruce had many talents as well as the ability to get employees to work together. Bruce always led by example, which is a trait of a true leader.
The District will miss Bruce’s integrity, hard work and guidance. When Bruce was asked what he will miss most about Norris his response was, “the thing I will miss most about not being at Norris, is
the Monday morning meetings with the linemen discussing their work schedules and safety briefings.”
Norris wishes Bruce a long-lasting and healthy retirement and that he enjoys his well-deserved time off.
A Look Back To 1979The year Bruce started at Norris is the year ESPN began broadcasting sports with Sports Center. Bruce’s passion for running marathons, biking, playing basketball and softball over the years, have kept him active throughout his career at Norris.
Following Bruce’s retirement, he plans to spend his time golfing, riding on the bike trails around Lincoln and spending time with his grandchildren.
Bruce Vitosh presents Bruce Liesveld with his Certificate of Appreciation.
“To Barbara and the rest of the Liesveld family, Norris appreciates your understanding and support of Bruce and his career at Norris. The storm on Father’s Day weekend, is the latest example of the time employees spend away from their spouses and families during the holidays.”
– Bruce Vitosh
Bruce Liesveld celebrates his retirement with his family.
“Make the Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life!”
– Art Linkletter
N O R R I S E L E C T R I C N E W S
RETIREMENT CELEBRATION10
At Work In Your NeighborhoodIn an effort to identify poles in need of treatment or replacement due to age or damage, Norris Public Power District has contracted with SBS Inspections, Inc., of Olathe, Colorado and S & L Pole Testing of Columbus, Nebraska to perform pole inspections. Pole inspection and treatment is an established industry
practice. A standard preventative maintenance program based on periodic tests to discover and treat decay prolongs the service life of the structure, helps reduce outage frequency and, in some cases, outage duration.
The pole inspections will take place in central and eastern
Thayer County and northwestern Seward County, as indicated on the map. Both pole testing projects are scheduled to begin later this summer. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the scheduled inspections to be completed, please contact any District office.
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R-4-W R-3-W R-2-W R-1-W
R-1-E R-2-E R-3-E R-4-E R-5-E R-6-E R-7-E R-8-E
T-12-NT-11-N
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T-1-
NT-
2-N
T-3-
NT-
4-N
T-5-
NT-
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2017 POLE INSPECTION PROJECT
POLE INSPECTION AREAS
NORRIS PUBLICPOWER DISTRICT
Water
Water
Water
Bear Creek
Indian
Cre
ek
Bear
Cree
k
Big Bl
ue Ri
ver
Big Blue River
E1/2 E1/2 SE1/4 14 T9N R5ES1/2 NE1/4 14 T9N R5E
067264-__
RoadHarold
Harold Court
River Road
Reed St
Court St
S 6th StS 6th St
US Hwy 77
State Hwy 15
Chicago
Rock Isl
and an
d Paci
fi
2 4
34
6
6
103
DAVEY
AGNEW
WAVERLYRAYMOND
MALCOLM
LINCOLN
ROKEBY
DENTON
BENNET
HICKMAN
ROCA
SPRAGUEMARTELL
PANAMA
FIRTH
HOLLANDPRINCETON
HALLAM
KRAMER
WILBER
FRIEND DORCHESTERCRETE
TOBIAS
WESTERN SWANTON
DEWITT
DAYKIN
HARBINEJANSEN
FAIRBURYDILLER
STEELE CITY
ENDICOTTREYNOLDS ODELL
BARNESTON
LIBERTY
BLUE SPRINGSWYMORE
BEATRICE
HOLMESVILLE
ROCKFORDVIRGINIA
FILLEY
CLATONIA
CORTLAND
ADAMS
HUBBELLBYRON
GILEADHEBRON
ALEXANDRIABELVIDERE
BRUNING
CARLETON
DESHLER
CHESTER
PLYMOUTH
PICKRELL
POWELL
LANHAM
PRARIE HOME
WALTON
GLADSTONE
PLEASANTHILL
DAVENPORT
GOEHNER
BEAVERCROSSING
CORDOVAMILFORD
PLEASANTDALE
UTICA TAMORA
STAPLEHURST
BEE
GARLANDSEWARD
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
POLE INSPECTION PROJECT 11
Nebraska ranks third amongst the states in total livestock receipts. Livestock products account for about two-thirds of Nebraska’s farm income. Beef cattle are the leading source, followed by hogs. Dairy products and chicken eggs are also important contributors to livestock product revenue. Nebraska farmers also raise sheep, chickens, turkeys and shrimp. SHRIMP, you may ask? Yes, shrimp are being raised locally in Jefferson County, Nebraska.
If you are wondering what, who, where, why and how SHRIMP are being raised in Nebraska, the following provides answers to all of those questions.
What?Fresh Pacific White Shrimp
Who?Scott, Holli, Reid and Skylar Pretzer
Rock Creek Aquaculture is a family-owned and operated business. Reid and Skylar, with help from their parents, are both actively involved with running the daily processes, maintaining the feeding schedules and are both rapidly evolving into sixth generation farmers. In May 2017, Reid graduated from Norris
High School and his graduation gift was shrimp tank number RCA 8R. After graduation, Reid independently made the trip to the nursery in Indiana and brought back approximately 3,500 shrimp larvae to stock his tank. Scott’s parents, Dean and Jane Pretzer, and Holli’s parents, Mike and Dorothy Harlan, also assist with the operation.
Where?70850 578th Avenue Diller, Nebraska
The Pretzer family roots run deep in Jefferson County, which was a prime reason for Scott and his family to leave Firth, return home to the Diller area and continue the time-honored family farming tradition. The shrimp farm is located in close proximity to Rock Creek Station Historical
Rock Creek AquacultureRaising another white meat
Reid and Scott Pretzer stand next to eight tanks containing Pacific White Shrimp. The tanks are covered with plastic to keep heat, humidity and jumping shrimp inside the ecosystems.
N O R R I S E L E C T R I C N E W S
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT12
Park, which inspired the name of the business for the Pretzer family. Rock Creek Station was an important road ranch, Pony Express Station and Stagecoach stop along the Oregon Trail.
Why?The Pretzer family has long been known for producing quality pork. Years had passed since the Pretzer family stopped producing pork. With existing facilities onsite, the Pretzer family began looking for ways to utilize the vacant buildings. Scott’s father, Dean, came across an article regarding shrimp farming in an agricultural magazine. After much research, the Pretzer family transitioned from producing one white meat to another white meat.
The entrepreneurship will help diversify farming and provide a place for Reid and Skylar in the future on the family farm, producing a quality agricultural product.
How?As a veterinarian, Scott has a vast knowledge of science and chemistry, as well as a passion for agribusiness. Teaming together his knowledge and passion for livestock is beneficial to the livelihood and quality of the shrimp that are being produced. No antibiotics, hormones or chemicals are used to produce the shrimp. The production process at Rock Creek Aquaculture is one-hundred percent natural and environmentally friendly with all water being recycled. Rock Creek Aquaculture has a permit from the State of Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission Fisheries Division for the farming of a fresh water species.
Currently, the shrimp farm consists of eight tanks that are each fourteen feet in diameter. When fully stocked, each tank holds approximately 3,500 shrimp. Water is continually aerated, circulated and the lights in the building are kept on twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, as shrimp get stressed in the dark which decreases production.
Juvenile shrimp, weighing approximately 1 gram each, are purchased from a shrimp hatchery in Indiana and brought back to Rock Creek Aquaculture to be raised. Shrimp are fed an antibiotic free, plant based feed three times a day. It takes approximately two to three months to raise the shrimp to the weight of 17 – 20 grams each, at which time they are market size and become available for sale.
“Shrimp are never frozen to be transported for delivery like store bought shrimp, which results in the translucent color, and the shrimp having a sweeter flavor,” said Scott.
To purchase fresh shrimp, contact Rock Creek Aquaculture. Shrimp are dipped from the tank upon arrival, flash chilled in an ice water bath and packaged for the route home. The best way to prepare fresh shrimp is grilled whole with the head on as that is where the flavor is. Fresh shrimp do not require being deveined prior to consumption since they carry no toxins, like store purchased shrimp. Fresh shrimp do not require any seasonings. You can simply enjoy the fresh
sweet flavored meat without all the seasonings and sauces.
Rock Creek Aquaculture’s success looks bright, as plans to expand, are already on the horizon. Take a drive, enjoy the magnificent view the farm has to offer and take home fresh shrimp for your family to enjoy.
Tours of the farm are available. For tour information or hours of operation, contact Rock Creek Aquaculture.
Rock Creek Aquaculture
(402) 793-5553 [email protected] http://rockcreekshrimp.com Find them on facebook!
The water temperature is monitored and tested daily for ammonia, nitrate, carbon dioxide, pH and alkalinity levels to maintain proper water quality and so measures can be taken if the feeding schedule needs to be altered.
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
SHRIMP FARMING IN NEBRASKA 13
Rural Youth Leadership Development
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour is an annual, weeklong trip to Washington, D.C. that is open to high school students who participated in the Youth Energy Leadership Camp the prior year. Nationwide, rural electric providers from forty-one states, send students to Youth Tour to represent their districts. In all, more than 1,700 students from across the nation gathered in Washington, D.C. for this event.
Norris and other rural electric providers send students to Washington, D.C. for a variety of reasons including:
1. Educating students about the role of rural electric systems in the national economy;
2. Fostering students’ appreciation for the democratic form of government;
3. Exposing students to the sights and sounds of our nation’s heritage; and
4. Building students’ leadership skills so that they may make a difference in their rural communities.
Norris Public Power District 2017 Representatives
Tiffany PearsonNorris Ambassador
This summer, I was an Ambassador for the Washington, D.C. Youth Tour. On June 9th, twenty-eight of my soon-to-be best
friends and I left Omaha in search of
adventure in D.C. and oh did we find it! The first few days were spent touring Gettysburg, many memorials such as the Vietnam and Korean Veterans, the Holocaust Museum, receiving a night tour of the Capitol building with Congressman Adrian Smith, Arlington National Cemetery and much more! A minute in D.C. was never wasted! On Wednesday morning, we were invited to the Nebraska Breakfast in the Dirksen Senate Office Building. As we sipped coffee and ate our bagels, we heard members of delegation such as Congressman Jeff Fortenberry and Senator Deb Fischer discuss topics prominent on Capitol Hill. Later that day, we visited the Library of Congress, which was personally my favorite building on Capitol Hill because of the beautiful architecture and deep thought that went into every single detail of the building.
“Throughout the year, I regularly meet with students of all ages throughout Nebraska in Washington, D.C. As students ask questions and share their ideas, it is clear the quality of Nebraska’s youth is impressive and their futures are bright.”
—Congressman, Adrian Smith
June 9 – 15, 2017
United States Congressman, Adrian Smith, visits with Norris’ Representatives and other Youth Tour participants
N O R R I S E L E C T R I C N E W S
YOUTH TOUR 201714
It’s difficult to find words to describe exactly how impactful this trip has been on me and how many wonderful things we saw every single day without writing an entire book, but what I know is that this trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity. In just seven short days, I learned more about my country, my fellow Americans and myself than I have ever before. I met some of the utterly best people I have ever met in my entire life and I discovered exactly how amazing our nation really is. From the absolute bottom of my heart, thank you so much to Norris Public Power District and the Youth Energy Leadership Camp in Halsey, Nebraska for presenting me with this marvelous opportunity. I will be forever grateful.
(Tiffany participated in the Ambassador competition and was selected by her peers at the 2016 Youth Energy Leadership Camp to represent the state of Nebraska at the 2017 Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. All Ambassador expenses are paid by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association through a scholarship provided by the Cooperative Finance Cooperation.)
Adam TjeerdsmaNorris Delegate
I would like to thank Norris Public Power District for sponsoring my trip to Washington, D.C.
for the 2017 Youth Tour. Thanks to this trip, I saw Gettysburg for the first time, and put the battle in a perspective that you can’t find online. I was able to see, with my own eyes, where exactly Pickett’s Charge took place and the chaos surrounding the battle there.
A special thing that this trip did for all of us is letting us meet with the Congressmen and women for
Nebraska. It was fantastic to be able to talk to them and get to ask them questions we had about our future, and what they were doing for us. This was one of the most amazing things that we did on this trip; however, waiting outside in the 90˚ heat and high humidity while also being evacuated for “suspicious activity,” did put a little of a damper on the day.
While the meetings were special, nothing compared to Arlington National Cemetery. When we were there, we got to watch the “Changing of the Guard” ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I will not soon forget watching that ceremony, and it has left a huge mark on me as a person. Without this trip, I would not have been able to have that experience, and it was one of the most profound experiences I have ever had.
Not only did Arlington leave its mark on me, but the people I met while there was an absolute once in a lifetime opportunity. I made some fantastic friends and plan to stay in touch with them.
Dylan JonesNorris Delegate
Thank you Norris Public Power District for allowing me to take part in the 2017 Youth Tour.
When I was first asked about going to the NREA camp out in Halsey, Nebraska, I wasn’t too sure what to think of it. I had mixed feelings about it and I was so excited that I would be going to this camp and reading about all the fun activities there that we were going to do. At the same time, I didn’t want to go because I wouldn’t know anyone there and my family
was going to be over two hundred miles away. When I arrived, it seemed instantly that it was going to be a load of excitement. It was about a five day camp and I wish it would have been longer because it was so extraordinary.
One year later, the next thing I knew I was on a plane flying to go on a once in a lifetime trip in Washington, D.C. When I arrived at our meeting place in Lincoln, I instantly recognized some of the people that were at the camp the previous year. We saw so many museums and memorials that reflect upon our beloved nation’s history. My favorite memorial was the World War II Memorial; it was just so touching to see it. There was one that did top it all though and that was the private night tour with Congressman Smith. He was a pretty humorous guy and it was so much different to talk to someone who worked with other politicians and be able to talk about politics with him and hear his own professional opinions. I certainly had a blast out there and I do wish that if you ever get the opportunity to go to D.C. to take it. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I never thought a small town boy like me would ever get to visit our nation’s capital.
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 017
YOUTH TOUR 2017 15
Above: Doug Holle with his horse, Whiskey, galloping west with the Pony Express.
CALENDARC O M M U N I T Y E V E N T S
THUR. - SUN. Jefferson County FairRed, White and Blue, This Fair is For Youwww.jeffcofair.us
JULY
13-16SUNDAY Jefferson County Fair
Tractor ShowJefferson County Fairgrounds, Fairbury9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Contact Juliann Endorf at 446-7486
JULY
16Jayhusker RacingJefferson County Speedway, Fairbury7:00 p.m.www.racejayhusker.com
WED. - SUN. Gage County FairCelebrate The Good Lifewww.gagecountyfair.com
JULY
26-30SUNDAY Cruis’n Classics Auto Show
1050 Saltillo Road, RocaRegistration: 8:00 – 11:00 a.m.Show Time: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Rain or Shine)Food, refreshments, door prizes and rafflesContact Bob Black at 430-0699 or [email protected]
JULY
30
TUESDAY Tuesday Night ThunderJefferson County Speedway, Fairbury7:00 p.m.USAC National Midgets and Jayhusker Mini-Sprintswww.TuesdayNightThunder.com
AUGUST
1FRI. - SUN. Plymouth’s 125th
Anniversary CelebrationFriday: Opening Ceremony All-Class Tri
County Reunion at Plymouth Brewhouse at 8:00 p.m.
Saturday: Kids Fun Run, Car/Tractor Show
Fireman’s BBQ and live entertainment
Sunday: Parade and gamesContact Tom Brandt at 520-3708
AUGUST
11-13
SATURDAY HALLAMFESTCraft fair, swap meet, flea market,Little Tuggers Pedal Tractor Pull,BBQ, street dance and midnight breakfastContact Sheila at 450-2154
AUGUST
12SATURDAY Jayhusker Racing - Fan
AppreciationJefferson County Speedway, Fairbury6:30 p.m.www.racejayhusker.com
AUGUST
1951st Annual Adams Community DayChicken BBQ, tractor pull, wet sand volleyball and moreContact Karl Gramann at 988-2255
SAT. - SUN. Blacksmiths and Pioneer DaysTransue Bros. Blacksmith Museum – Summerfield, KansasSaturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Marble blowing,
broom making, wood carving and more
Contact Dave at [email protected]
AUGUST
19-20
MONDAY Great American Solar EclipseJefferson County Eclipse 11:36 a.m. – 2:29 p.m.www.EclipseJefferson County.com
AUGUST
21Solar Eclipse ViewingHallam United Methodist Church500 Main Street, Hallam9:00 a.m. - coffee and rolls10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – quilt show, bake sale,hot dogs, burgers, volleyball, wagon rides and moreQuestions call Blanche Knudsen at 787-2014
SATURDAY Miniature Railroad Show17200 Bluff Road, Waverly10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Contact Rick Weisgerber at 238-2577
SEPTEMBER
9SUNDAY Mile High Time Trials
Burkley Wellness Center, FairburyContact Craig Bontrager at [email protected]
SEPTEMBER
10SAT. - SUN. Tractors and Treasures/
Steele City Flea Market• Antique tractor pull,
tractor drive, old farm machinery show
• Living history with blacksmithing and flea market
• Street dance featuring Caleb Bradley Band
• Tractor show, drive and parade.
Contact Juliann Endorf at 446-7486Flea market contact Megan Sothan at 729-5131
SEPTEMBER
16-17
SUNDAY Annual Car ShowFairbury MuseumMusic, food, games, and door prizeswww.FairburyMuseum.org
SEPTEMBER
17WEDNESDAY Steele City Scenic Tractor
DriveMeet at 8:45 a.m.Leave at 9:00 a.m. sharp
SEPTEMBER
20Community events are provided as a courtesy based on information submitted by the public.
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