Newsletter November 2012

Village of Mead

MEAD MESSENGER

November 2012

Volume 9, Issue 11

 

VILLAGE OF MEAD BOARD OF TRUSTEES MINUTES

     A regular meeting of the Board of Trustees met Tuesday, October 9, 2012 at 6:00 pm at the Village Office.  Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Miller, Raver & Wielage.  Also present were Clerk Moline, Utility/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver & Police Chief Carlson.  Guest was Ben Day.

     Ben Day, Olsson Associates, reported contact with the appraiser, DEQ, flow meter results & construction process of retention lagoons.

     REPORTS:

     UTILITY/MAINTENANCE:  N. Raver reported land requirement for lagoons, street repair of Fourth St., & new light pole ordered for the median.

     POLICE:  The monthly police report & nuisance complaint were discussed.

     CLERK:  Moline reported upgrade/maintenance agreement for utility billing, completion of audit & material requested for distribution regarding the future of the post office.

     PLANNING COMMISSION:  No quorum for meeting.

     LIBRARY:  September snapshot presented.

     UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  Discussion of part-time employee benefits was tabled until the 11/13 meeting.

     NEW BUSINESS:  Community Survey data was presented.  Action was taken to approve a Retainer & Fee Agreement with Young & White Law Office for legal services for retention lagoons project, approved Resolution 12-14 to set meeting date to propose a Resolution of Necessity &first reading of Ordinance 630, Amend Chapter 6, Article 3, Section 6-303, Misdemeanors; Discharge of Firearms with Municipality.  Christmas Dinner was discussed.  A $50,000.00, 10-year term life insurance policy for Police Chief Carlson will be renewed.

     The board entered executive session at 7:12 pm for annual review of Library Aide.  The board returned to regular session at 7:14 p.m.  The meeting adjourned at 7:14 pm.    

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS NOVEMBER 4

   
 

The Village Office will be closed November 22 & 23 for Thanksgiving

 

THANK-YOU’S DUE!  

Thank you to the parties responsible for watering the park and completing minor repairs.  Those known are Bob Hannan, Dale Freeman, Arvid Barr and Terry Miller.  We appreciate your dedication to the Village of Mead!

 

Special points of interest:
Winter Dump Hours
Mead Community Group
Snow Removal
HALLOWEEN Events Scheduled
Planning Commission Member Needed
Upcoming Meetings
Church Services
 

WINTER DUMP HOURS

 
Dump hours are changing for the winter months effective November 1 through March 31.  The dump will be open on the FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH ONLY FROM 8:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.

BE AWARE THE DUMP WILL BE CLOSED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER (rain, if the road is not passable or snow). 

Tree branches, weeds, leaves and grass clippings are the only items permitted.  All loads will be checked.  All items are to be unbagged. The dump is open to Mead residents only with a $2.00 fee charged per load, payable to the Dump Master.

  

Mead Community Group Healthy Family Tip of the Month

 

Thanksgiving brings to mind a spirit of gratefulness.  How do we impart this attitude of gratitude into our families?  In reality it is a year round effort, but we can use the Thanksgiving holiday as a kick-off to practicing thankfulness every day.  Here are a few ideas to help get us started:

 *Create a thankful paper chain – using different colors of construction paper, scissors, markers and a stapler, have the kids (young and old) write or draw one thing they are thankful for on a piece of paper. (1” x 11”)  Encourage them to come up with many different ideas.  Loop and staple the strips together to form a chain.  See how long you can get it to stretch and use it to decorate your dining room for Thanksgiving dinner. 

 *Plan a simple, family service event – working together serving others is a powerful way to teach gratefulness.  For ideas, check out the Doing Good Together website. 

 

*Make a grateful list – get the family together and brainstorm “I'm thankful for...” ideas.  Making a list like this often reminds us of how much we take for granted.

 
*Play the “popcorn thanks” game – Go around the dinner table and focus on one person at a time.  Have other people name the things they appreciate about this person.  Make it a popcorn thanks in that people spontaneously “pop out” what they have to say.  No limit on the amount of thanks one person can give. 
 

*Play the “one-word thanks” game – similar to the above game but each person uses only a one word adjective to describe the featured person. 

 

*Make it a family habit to always write thank-you notes  - keep a bunch of note cards and stamps handy to make it easy to write a quick note when gifts are received.  Now more than ever, a hand written note is especially treasured.

For more information see www.parentfurther.com

 

The Mead Community Group wishes you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving!  We are grateful for your support and for all the ways we work together to make our community a great place to live!    

 
Please join us at our next regular monthly meeting, now on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (11/14) at 2:00 pm at the the Mead High School library.  All interested parties welcome! 

SNOW REMOVAL GUIDELINES

As winter weather approaches, Village Ord. 5-311 requires that following a snowfall of 2” or more, it shall be unlawful to park or stand any vehicle on any street within the congested district (Vine St. from 3rd St. to 5th St. and 4th St. from the alley adjacent to Blocks 24 and 33 to Vine St. and from alley adjacent to Blocks 25 and 32 to Vine St.), between the hours of 11:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. of the following day.  All vehicles must be removed promptly from the designated “Snow Emergency Route” that is marked by signs.
 

On all other streets, parking shall be restricted to the north and west sides of the streets on even numbered days of the month and the south and east sides of the streets on odd numbered days of the month until the streets have been cleaned.

 

Village ordinance also designates that all sidewalks shall be cleaned within 24 hours after the cessation of snow.

 

Snow Emergency Route

Snow Emergency Route within the Village of Mead is defined as Elm Street from Highway 92 to Eighth Street, Vine Street from First Street to Eighth Street, First Street from Elm Street to County Road 10, Fourth Street from Elm Street to County Road 10, and Eighth Street from Oak Street to County Road 10.

Signs are posted on the streets indicating they are designated as the Snow Emergency Route.  Parking on these streets is not permitted during snow accumulation.  No parking on side streets is also encouraged to aid in snow removal in a timely manner.

 

Adopt A Senior Pet Month - consider an older pet when looking for a new addition for your family.   Not only will they be a great addition to your family but you can provide for their needs in their lives.

  

ANNUAL FIRE DEPARTMENT HALLOWEEN PARTY

The Mead Fire Department is sponsoring their annual costume party on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31 at Mead Jr-Sr High School in the commons area. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with judging of costumes (all ages) at approximately 6:30 p.m. Free hot dogs and hot chocolate will be served. 

 

TRUNK OR TREAT

Decorate your vehicle and join the Mead Community Group in some Halloween Fun!  The event is held at the Mead High School parking lot, Wednesday, October 31st.

Arrive at 5:45 p.m. to set up in front of the school, we will have barricades set up for the trunkers,  Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. inside with hot dogs and a costume contest sponsored by the Mead Fire Department.  Participants of Trunk or Treat will distribute treats following the Fire Department Party.  The first ten vehicles to arrive will receive a free bag of candy to hand out and all participants at the Trunk and Treat will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize.

 

MEAD PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBER WANTED

*  Must live inside the corporate limits of the Village of Mead
*  Willing to learn zoning regulations
*  Concerned about the community

Please contact the Village Office (402-624-2495), a member of the Board of Trustees or Planning Commission if interested in this opportunity.

 

VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS

Village Board:  Tuesday, November 13, 6:00pm
Planning Comm: Monday, November 26, 7:30pm
Library Board:  Wednesday, November 14, 7:00pm
Fire & Rescue:  Monday, November 12, 7:30pm
The Village Board and Planning Commission meet at the Village Office, Library Board at the Mead Library and Fire Department at Mead Schools (temporary location).

VILLAGE OF MEAD

312 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46
Mead, NE 68041-0046
Phone:  (402) 624-2495
Fax:  (402) 624-2024
E-mail:  meadclerk1@hotmail.com
Web:  www.meadnebraska.net
Steve Mayfield, Chairman
Jim Halbmaier, Trustee
Adam Miller, Trustee
Ailene Raver, Trustee
Richard Wielage, Trustee
 

June Moline, Clerk/Treas.  624-2495

Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt.  443-9688
Jerry Carlson, Police Chief  624-2056
Vera Kuhr, Librarian  624-6605
Nick Raver, Fire Chief  443-9688
 

CHURCH SERVICES

 

EVANGELICAL COVENANT  1540 Co Rd 10

Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125

  9:00 am  Coffee & visiting

10:00 am  Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30,
nursery available during service)

Weekly Schedule

Tuesday
7:00 pm  Men’s Study

Wednesday

6:00 pm  Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone)
7:00 pm  Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible)
7:00 pm  Jr./Sr. High Youth Group

ST. JAMES CATHOLIC  213 E. Eighth St.

sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555
5:30 pm  Saturday Mass
9:00 am  Sunday Mass

Weekly Schedule

7:00 am  Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
5:30 pm  Daily Mass -  Tuesday
8:00 am  Daily Mass - Saturday

ALMA LUTHERAN  219 W Fifth St.

www.almalutheran.com / 402-624-3015

Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken)

10:30 am - all other Sundays
9:15 am  Sunday School for all ages

PANERA BREAD - NOVEMBER 10, 10:00 - 11:00 am at the church basement  (FREE TO ALL)

Newsletter October 2012

Village of Mead

Mead Messenger
OCTOBER 2012
Volume 9, Issue 10


Water Leak Facts

• A leaking toilet can use 90,000 gallons of water in 30 days.

• A dripping faucet/hose can lose up to 180 gallons a month.

• Approximately one in every 20 swimming pools has a leak.

• Using a pool cover prevents about 1,000 gallons per month from evaporating.

•A 1/8 inch hole in a metal pipe, at 40 psi, leaks 2,500 gallons of water in 24 hours.

• A leak the size of a pinhead can waste 360,000 gallons per year, enough to fill 12,000 bathtubs to the overflow mark.

• Approximately one in every 318 homes or buildings has a leak.

• A typical toilet leak at today’s rate can add $500 to a single water bill.

• One trip through a car wash uses 150 gallons of drinking water.

• Collecting water for gardening from the faucet while waiting for hot water saves about 250 gallons of water a month.

• Using a broom to clean the sidewalk instead of a hose saves 150 gallons of water.

ANNUAL DEPARTMENT’S HALLOWEEN PART
The Mead Fire Department is sponsoring their annual costume party on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31 at Mead Jr-Sr High School in the commons area. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with judging of costumes (all ages) at approximately 6:30 p.m. Free hot dogs and hot chocolate will be served.

MEAD PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBER WANTED
* Must live inside the corporate limits of the Village of Mead

* Willing to learn zoning regulations

* Concerned about the community

Please contact the Village Office (402-624-2495), a member of the Board of Trustees or Planning Commission if interested in this opportunity.

Thank you, Lowell Divoll, for serving on the Mead Planning Commission
WINTER DUMP HOURS

Dump hours are changing for the winter months effective November 1 through March 31. The dump will be open on the FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH ONLY FROM 8:00 A.M. - NOON. The dump will be closed in inclement weather (rain, if the road is not passable or snow).

The dump is open to residents only with a fee of $2.00 per load.

CHURCH SERVICES

ALMA LUTHERAN 219 W Fifth St.
www.almalutheran.com / 402-624-3015
Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken)
10:30 am - all other Sundays
9:15 am Sunday School for all ages
7:00 pm Youth Meeting

PANERA BREAD - OCTOBER 13, 10:00 - 11:00 am at the church basement (FREE TO ALL)

EVANGELICAL COVENANT 1540 Co Rd 10
Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125
9:00 am Coffee & visiting
10:00 am Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30, nursery available during service)

Weekly Schedule
Tuesday
7:00 pm Men’s Study
Wednesday
6:00 pm Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone)
7:00 pm Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible)
7:00 pm Jr./Sr. High Youth Group

PRIMETIMER’S - OCTOBER 11, 10:00 am - NOON (Potluck / Fellowship for all Seniors)

ST. JAMES CATHOLIC 213 E. Eighth St.
sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555
5:30 pm Saturday Mass
9:00 am Sunday Mass

Weekly Schedule
7:00 am Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
5:30 pm Daily Mass - Tuesday
8:00 am Daily Mass - Saturday

VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS
Village Board: Tuesday, October 9 , 6:00pm
Planning Comm: Monday, October 22, 7:30pm
Library Board: Wednesday, October 3, 7:00pm
Fire & Rescue: Monday, October 8, 7:30pm

The Village Board and Planning Commission meet at the Village Office, Library Board at the Mead Library and Fire Department at Mead Schools (temporary location).

VILLAGE OF MEAD
312 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46
Mead, NE 68041-0046
Phone: (402) 624-2495
Fax: (402) 624-2024
E-mail: meadclerk1@hotmail.com
Web: www.meadnebraska.net

Steve Mayfield, Chairman
Jim Halbmaier, Trustee
Adam Miller, Trustee
Ailene Raver, Trustee
Richard Wielage, Trustee

June Moline, Clerk/Treas. 624-2495
Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt. 443-9688
Jerry Carlson, Police Chief 624-2056
Vera Kuhr, Librarian 624-6605
Nick Raver, Fire Chief 443-9688

International Walk/Bike to School Day is October 3! Studies show that even just 10 minutes of activity a day can help kids do better in the classroom and lead longer, fuller lives. Parents can start teaching them healthy habits now by having them walk/bike to school on the 3rd. Come join the fun!

Village of Mead Board of Trustees Meetings

A Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees was held August 20 at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Miller & Raver. Absent was Trustee Wielage. Also present were Clerk Moline & Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver. Guests present were Ed Schroeder, Ben Day & Jerry Hain.

Ben Day, Olsson Associates, discussed two options for the planned wastewater project. Projects being an irrigation lagoon or a complete retention lagoon. Pros and cons for both projects were addressed. Also presented was a Basic Professional Service Report.

Discussion was held on financing the project & land acquisition. Action was taken to hire Olsson Associates as the engineering firm for the future wastewater project.

The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

A Budget Workshop of the Board of Trustees was called at 6:02 p.m. on August 20 at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Miller & Raver. Absent was Trustee Wielage. Also present were Clerk Moline & Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver. Guests were Ed Schroeder, Ben Day & Jerry Hain.

Ed Schroeder presented the 10/1/12 - 9/30/13 budget. Discussion was held.

The workshop was adjourned at 6:45 p.m.

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees was held on Sept. 11 at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Miller, Raver & Wielage. Absent was Halbmaier. Also present were Clerk Moline, Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver & Police Chief Carlson. Guests were Marc Rosso, Ben Day, Loren Lindahl, Ed Ruhe, Bob Hannan & Dale Freeman.

The board adjourned to a Budget Hearing at 6:05 p.m. Action was taken to approve the 10/1/12 - 9/30/13 budget, 1% increase & Resolution 12-12, Final Tax Levy of 35.7828 cents per hundred dollars of actual valuation. The hearing adjourned at 6:09 p.m.

SCHEDULED GUESTS: Ed Ruhe: Discussion was held regarding the dump. He was instructed to contacted a Trustee if in need of a substitute & decision to close dump when a muddy road or snow constitutes. Attorney Loren Lindahl: Discussed the process to obtain land for the wastewater project. John Trecek, Ameritas: Explained the process to obtain Municipal Bonds. Bob Hannan : Reported watering the park, fence needing repair at the park & replacement of the water hydrant. Ben Day, Olsson Assoc.: Presented alternatives for an irrigation lagoon or retention lagoon & construction project.

Action was taken to approve a contract with Olsson Assoc. for engineering services for a complete retention lagoon.

UTILITY/MAINTENANCE REPORT: A bid was received from TopKote to blow & seal cracks in the street. The bid of $10,000.00 was approved to complete the project.

POLICE REPORT: Monthly activity was reviewed. Discussion was held on BB guns. Action was taken to pursue an ordinance to ban the shooting of BB guns within the village.

CLERK REPORT: Water meter concern, release of utility lien & community survey were addressed.

PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT: The 8/27 meeting minutes were reviewed. Bldg. Permit 12-15 to Outlaw Land Co for an addition was approved.

LIBRARY REPORT: The minutes of the 8/8 meeting & snapshot were presented.

Action was taken to rescind motion from the 7/20 special meeting directing JEO to let bids for a wastewater project; approved Ord. 629, Land Purchase for Retention Lagoon by waiving three readings; hired Gary Hassebrook as the village appraiser for the retention lagoon project; & approved Resolution 12-13, Amend Employee Handbook. It was reported that Lowell Divoll has resigned from the Planning Commission due to job conflicts. Discussion was held on part-time employee benefits. The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

Election Information ~
The village has been informed that the polling site for the Village of Mead will be held at Mead Covenant Church, 1538 Co Rd 10. This is due to the fact that the Community Building / Fire Station is currently undergoing renovation. Plan to vote on Tuesday, November 6th.

Mead Community Group Healthy Family Tip of the Month
What's wrong with my kid?

Determining whether your child is using drugs or alcohol, figuring out the extent of his or her use, and seeking treatment are daunting tasks for parents. In his book, “What's Wrong with My Kid?”, author George E. Leary Jr. explains the disease model of addiction so that parents can understand the nature of the problem they are dealing with.

Addiction is a disease. No different from when your chld was young and came down with a childhood illness. How did you respond then? More than likely, you took his temperature, noted his symptoms, and started responding appropriately. At first administering home remedies, but if that did not improve your child's health within a short time period, more than likely you sought out advice from the doctor. Regardless of cost or inconvenience, getting your child well was your primary concern.

Just because your child is older and the illness happens to be addiction, there is no reason to shy away from the tried and proven methodology. Diagnose, treat, and seek out professional help when necessary. Check out Leary's book for more ideas in diagnosing and treating addiction.

The important thing to note here is that by remembering that addiction is a disease, as declared by the American Medical Association, we don't blame the child for being ill. Society often attaches a stigma of social and moral deviancy to people who struggle with addiction to drugs and alcohol. This causes parents to become emotionally twisted and to lash out at their child instead of getting them professional help as they would for a sick child.

Your child may exhibit a wide variety of unhealthy traits, but you must remember that her mind has been afflicted by a disease, which in turn will alter her behaviors. She needs your loving support, and sometimes that love will require you to allow treatment that may be uncomfortable in the present but will lead to long term benefits. Just like when your toddler was ill and you had to hold him while he cried receiving a shot of medicine that would get him better. Sometimes you had to administer bad tasting medicine if it would help your child get well. As a parent you must demonstrate your love through self-discipline, even when the going gets really rough. There is help available, seek it out, and take the advice of someone who is trained in dealing with the disease your child is battling.

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES HAS APPROVED A RETENTION LAGOON PROJECT. THE VILLAGE HAS RETAINED OLSSON ASSOCIATES OF LINCOLN TO SERVE AS THE ENGINEERING FIRM FOR THE PROJECT. AN APPRAISER HAS ALSO BEEN HIRED. THE PROJECT IS JUST IN THE PLANNING STAGES. WATCH FOR FURTHER DETAILS AS TO HOW YOUR NEW WASTEWATER FACILITY IS PROCEEDING.

Newsletter September 2012

Village of Mead
Mead Messenger
OCTOBER 2012
Volume 9, Issue 9

VILLAGE BOARD MEMBERS MEET

A special meeting of the Village Board of Trustees was held Friday, July 20 at the Village Office. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chairman Mayfield. Answering roll call were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Miller, Raver and Wielage. Also present were Clerk Moline and Utility/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver.

Discussion was held on the #1 priority to construct a wastewater facility and addressing the violation for the wastewater plant. It was approved to instruct JEO to let bids for an irrigation lagoon system. A letter is requested from JEO to address the wastewater plant violation. Contact will be made with a representative from Ameritas in regard to municipal bonds. Trustees will meet with local farmers in regard to placement of the lagoon system.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

~ ~ ~

A regular meeting of the Board of Trustees was held Tuesday, August 14 at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Miller, Raver and Wielage. Absent was Halbmaier. Also present were Clerk Moline, Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver and Police Chief Carlson. Guests present were Terry Meier, Tim Adams, Marc Rosso & Tanner Shaw.

GUESTS: Terry Meier, JEO Consulting, discussed plans for a wastewater facility & financing the project. Tim Adams, JEO Consulting, presented the four options for a wastewater facility & necessary repairs to the current mechanical plant. Tanner Shaw, Alt En, asked the board to consider purchase of potable water and contract village operator to conduct the testing for the ethanol plant.

UTILITY/MAINTENANCE SUPT. REPORT: N. Raver reported water usage, water line repair, condition of village streets and water tower cleaning.

CLERK REPORT: Moline reported meter maintenance, computer repair and completion of the community survey. Proposal to amend the Employee Handbook and local sales tax information was reviewed.

POLICE REPORT: Carlson presented the monthly activity log and addressed golf carts and BB guns.

PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT: The minutes of the June 23 regular meeting were reviewed.

LIBRARY REPORT: No report submitted.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Action was taken to adopt Ord. 628, 9-302 Building Moving; Deposit, on third reading.

NEW BUSINESS: The process to procure municipal bonds was reviewed. Resignation of Tracy Varble as custodian was reported. Applications for the position of custodian were reviewed. Irvie Hook was hired as custodian at a rate of $8.00 per hour.

Discussion centered on renewal of life insurance policy for Carlson and dump concerns to be addressed at the September 11 meeting.

Raver exited the meeting at 8:15 p.m. The board entered executive session at 8:15 p.m. for annual review of the Utility/Maintenance Supt. The board returned to regular session at 8:40 p.m

A $.50 per hour wage increase was approved for Utility/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:41 p.m.


Thank you to all utility users who completed the Community Surveys that were recently distributed. Results of the survey will be made available within the next few months.

The Board of Trustees has made a decision to proceed with the wastewater facility project. Additional information will be furnished once decisions are made in regard to the project.

Village Office Closed Monday, Sept. 3 to observe Labor Day


Back to school - A kid’s guide to crossing streets
It’s that time of year again! Kids across Nebraska are heading back to school, and many of them will be walking or biking. Make sure your children know how to do it safely using this kid’s guide to crossing streets.
Aid’s guide to crossing streets
Walking to school is fun, easy, and good for you. But if you don’t know the right way to cross streets, you could run into trouble. Follow these crossing rules to stay safe.

STOP at the curb (or the edge of the road, if there is no curb).

LOOK left, then right, then left again. Make sure there are no moving cars before you step into the street. If a car is parked where you are crossing, make sure there is no driver and the car is not running.

WAIT until any cars on the street have gone by. Then look left, right, and left again until no cars are coming.

WALK across the road when it is clear. Don’t run, and make sure you keep a lookout for moving cars as you cross.

Also, remember that you should always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the street so that you are facing oncoming traffic. This way, you can make eye contact with drivers and be sure they see you.


Mead Public Schools is underway with athletic events beginning soon. First events are listed:

Softball - 8/23 JV/V vs Logan View @ 4:30 at Yutan
Volleyball - 8/28 JV/V vs Syracuse @ 5:00 at Mead
Football - 8/31 V vs Lyons-Decatur @ 7:00 at Mead
Volleyball - 9/8 JH vs Brownell Talbot @ 10 at BT
Football - 9/4 JH vs OCA @ Omaha


How HOT is it?
...the best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance.
...you can make sun tea instantly.
...you discover that you can get sunburned through your car window.
...the potaoes cook underground, so all you have to do is pull one out and add butter.
...the cows are giving evaporated milk.
...farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying boiled eggs.

VILLAGE OF MEAD
12 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46
Mead, NE 68041-0046

Phone: (402) 624-2495
Fax: (402) 624-2024
E-mail: meadclerk1@hotmail.com
Web Address: www.meadnebraska.net

Board of TrusteesSteve Mayfield, Chairman
Jim Halbmaier, Trustee
Adam Miller, Trustee
Ailene Raver, Trustee
Richard Wielage, Trustee

June Moline, Clerk/Treas. 624-2495
Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt. 443-9688
Jerry Carlson, Police Chief 624-2056
Vera Kuhr, Librarian 624-6605
Nick Raver, Fire Chief 443-9688

VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS

Village Board: Tuesday, September 11 , 6:00pm
Planning Comm: Monday, September 24, 7:30pm
Library Board: Wednesday, September 5, 7:00 p.m.
Fire & Rescue: Monday, September 10, 7:30pm

The Village Board and Planning Commission meet at the Village Office, Library Board at the Mead Library and Fire Department at Mead Schools (temporary location).

Mead Community Group Healthy Family Tip of the Month
By Angie Johnson

How to Build Community

TURN OFF YOUR TV*LEAVE YOUR HOUSE~KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS*GREET PEOPLE^LOOK UP WHEN YOU ARE WALKING-SIT ON YOUR STOOP* plant flowers~USE YOUR LIBRARY^play together*BUY FROM LOCAL MERCHANTS-SHARE WHAT YOU HAVE~help a lost dog*TAKE CHILDREN TO THE PARKhelp carry something heavy^BARTER FOR YOUR GOODS+start a tradition/ASK A QUESTION?hire young people for odd jobs-ORGANIZE A BLOCK PARTY*BAKE EXTRA AND SHARE~ASK FOR HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT=open your shades:SING TOGETHER~share your skills+TAKE BACK THE NIGHT*turn up the music-TURN DOWN THE MUSIC!listen before you react to anger*MEDIATE A CONFLICT#seek to understand~learn from new and uncomfortable angles*KNOW THAT NO ONE IS SILENT THOUGH MANY ARE NOT HEARD*work to change this

We want YOU to join us for our next Mead Community Group meeting, Thursday, September 20th at the Mead High School Library, 1:00 pm.

CHURCH NEWS
ST. JAMES CATHOLIC 213 E. Eighth St.
sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555
5:30 pm Saturday Mass
9:00 am Sunday Mass

Weekly Schedule
7:00 am Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
5:30 pm Daily Mass - Tuesday
8:00 am Daily Mass - Saturday

ALMA LUTHERAN 219 W Fifth St.
www.almalutheran.com / 402-624-3015
Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken)
10:30 am - all other Sundays
9:15 am Sunday School for all ages
7:00 pm Youth Meeting

PANERA BREAD - SATURDAY, SEPT. 15, 10:00 - 11:00 am in the church basement (FREE TO ALL)

EVANGELICAL COVENANT 1540 Co Rd 10
Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125
9:00 am Coffee & visiting
10:00 am Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30, nursery available during service)

Weekly Schedule
Tuesday
7:00 pm Men’s Study

Wednesday
6:00 pm Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone)
7:00 pm Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible)
7:00 pm Jr./Sr. High Youth Group

PRIMETIMER”S - THURSDAY, SEPT. 12, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
(Potluck / Fellowship for all Seniors)

Newsletter August 2012

Village of Mead

MEAD MESSENGER

AUGUST 2012
Volume 9, Issue 8

VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTS MEET JULY 10
The Village of Mead Board of Trustees met July 10 at the Village Office. Chairman Mayfield called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Answering roll call were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Raver and Wielage. Absent were Halbmaier and Miller. Also present were Clerk Moline, Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver and Police Chief Carlson. Guests present were Barney Whatley, Dave Henke and Terry Meier.

SCHEDULED GUESTS: Barney Whatley, NE Rural Water, discussed the process to complete a community survey for best possible sources to fund water / sewer projects.

Miller entered the meeting at 6:02 p.m.

UTILITY/MAINTENANCE REPORT: N. Raver reported a “Notice of Violation” at the wastewater plant and repairs to the comminutor. Discussion was held on bobcat lease and woodpile on residential property. The board identified a wastewater facility as the #1 priority for future projects.

Miller exited the meeting at 6:48 p.m.

POLICE REPORT: Carlson presented the monthly police report. Discussion was held on pot-bellied pig and nuisances.

CLERK REPORT: Moline presented proposed additions to the Employee Handbook and provided information on local sales tax as requested by the board. Sale of sixty-six pet licenses was noted.

PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT: The minutes of the June 25 Regular Meeting were reviewed. Action was taken to approve Building Permit 12-14 to Doug Konecky to construct a geo-thermal well.

LIBRARY REPORT: No report submitted.

Action was taken to adopt on third reading Ord. 627, 2-202 Planning Commission Special Meeting Rate and approved second reading of Ord. 628, 9-302 Building Moving; Deposit. Receipt of $100.00 toward the 2012 Easter Egg Hunt from Saunders Co. Lodging Tax was noted. Discussion was held on the dump, utility complaint addressed, receipt of thank-you from Mead Ball Assoc., and “Heroes Among Us” project.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

COMMUNITY SURVEY BEING CONDUCTED

The Village of Mead will be conducting a Community Survey in the near future. Surveys will be delivered door-to-door for your completion. Upon completion, please mail in the self-addressed, stamped envelope to the unbiased source completing the survey. It is imperative that all households complete and promptly return the surveys. The purpose of the survey is to seek the best funding possible for village infrastructure projects.

Several Projects Happening in Mead
Frontier Co-op is erecting a fourth grain bin to allow for additional grain storage. The concrete grain bins have also recently been painted.

Mead Rural Fire District #8 is renovating the Community Building / Fire Station. They are also adding additional bays during the renovation.

Mead Community Group Healthy Family Tip of the Month

Be a Big Kid! The Importance of Cutting Loose

“Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.” - Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan is a famous basketball player, but his advice applies to all of life. Research shows that it's good for your overall well-being and your relationships to be silly, funny and not-so-serious all of the time. Try “playful parenting”, join in your child's world of play, focusing on connection, giggling, and letting your child take the lead. “Playful” is really a state of mind. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

*Have an impromptu dance party
*Make goofy shapes out of sandwiches or pancakes
*Throw a “Tuesday Party” or other random celebration
*If you have a particularly moody child, be ready to seize the moment when they are feeling a bit more lighthearted.

Everyday Parenting Ideas, www.parentfurther.com

PRIMETIMERS meet from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm the second Thursday of the month at the Mead Covenant Church for potluck and fellowship. The next event is scheduled for August 9th. All Seniors Welcome!

PANERA BREAD will be available at Alma Lutheran Church on Saturday, August 11 from 10 am - 11 am in the church basement. All are welcome!

A REMINDER REGARDING TREES
Please be aware that the homeowner is responsible for maintaining overhanging tree branches . There must be a 14 foot clearance from the branch to the surface of the sidewalk / street. Village Code 8-107.

WATER / SEWER PAYMENT OPTIONS ~~~~~
Payment for water /sewer use may be made by 1) Deliver to the village office; 2) Mailing to Box 46, Mead, NE 68041-0046; 3) Deliver to the Bank of Mead; 4) Deliver at the drop box located by the front door of the village office; or 5) if you have an account with the Bank of Mead, come to the village office and sign an authorization form for automatic withdrawal from your account on the 15th of the month. Automatic withdrawal is worry-free, but you must have an account at the Bank of Mead for this option. The village office must have the authorization form signed prior to automatic withdrawal.

REMINDER ABOUT BUILDING PROJECTS

All building projects must be approved by the Village of Mead Planning Commission prior to construction. The only projects that do not require a permit is an accessory building 150 square feet or less or concrete projects. Buildings moved or destroyed require a permit as do fences and signs.

The Planning Commission meets the 4th Monday of the month, excluding December. All applications must be placed on the agenda no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting.

CHURCH SERVICES
EVANGELICAL COVENANT 1540 Co Rd 10
Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125

9:00 am Coffee & visiting
10:00 am Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30, nursery available during service)

Weekly Schedule
Tuesday - 7:00 pm Men’s Study
Wednesday - 6:00 pm Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone)
7:00 pm Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible)
7:00 pm Jr./Sr. High Youth Group

ST. JAMES CATHOLIC 213 E. Eighth St.
sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555
5:30 pm Saturday Mass
9:00 am Sunday Mass

Weekly Schedule
7:00 am Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
5:30 pm Daily Mass - Tuesday
8:00 am Daily Mass - Saturday
ALMA LUTHERAN 219 W Fifth St.
www.almalutheran.com / 402-624-3015
Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken)
10:30 am - all other Sundays
9:15 am Sunday School for all ages
7:00 pm Youth Meeting

ALMA ANGELS PRESCHOOL

Alma Angels Preschool will hold a registration / Open House on August 27 from 6:00-8:00 pm. A registration form is available on www.almalutheran.com or by calling the church.

Preschool begins September 5. Class session is held Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.  If you have questions, please call the church at (402) 624-3015.

WANTED - PRESCHOOL HELPER for Alma Angels Preschool. Hours are Monday - Wednesday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Call Alma Lutheran Church at (402) 624-3015 for more information or to make application.

VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS
Village Board: Tuesday, August 14 , 6:00pm
Planning Comm: Monday, August 27, 7:30pm
Library Board: Wednesday, August 1, 7:00pm
Fire & Rescue: Monday, August 13, 7:30pm
The Village Board and Planning Commission meet at the Village Office, Library Board at the Mead Library and Fire Department at Mead Schools (temporarily).
VILLAGE OF MEAD
312 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46
Mead, NE 68041-0046
Phone: (402) 624-2495
Fax: (402) 624-2024
E-mail: meadclerk1@hotmail.com
Web: http://www.meadnebraska.net/
Steve Mayfield, Chairman
Jim Halbmaier, Trustee
Adam Miller, Trustee
Ailene Raver, Trustee
Richard Wielage, Trustee
June Moline, Clerk/Treas. 624-2495
Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt. 443-9688
Jerry Carlson, Police Chief 624-2056
Vera Kuhr, Librarian 624-6605
Nick Raver, Fire Chief 443-9688

Newsletter July 2012

Village of Mead

MEAD MESSENGER
July 2012
Volume 9, Issue 7

MEAD DAYS RESULTS ~
Raffle Winners: 1st Place $200 - Jim Ellison ; 2nd Place $100 - Tamie Kander; 3rd Place $50 – Drew Waggoner. Wyatt Winn sold the most tickets for the Ball Association and his team also won a picnic. Thanks to everyone who purchased a ticket as well as sold them.

Winner of the Mead Days Quilt: Tiffany Subbert, owner of Stardust Bar and Grill Colon, NE.

Sand Volleyball Winners:
Silver Tournament: Devynn Patocka, Billy Mayer, Miranda Charles and Adam Miller
Gold Tournament: Penny and Shawn Havelka, Robin and Brian Streit

Mud Volleyball Winners: Penny and Shawn Havelka, Robert Hartgrave and Crystal Konecky

Chinese Horseshoe Winners: Kurt and Happ Christensen

Horseshoe Winners: John Haag and Tim Dickes

Beer Pong Winners: Luke Kardell and Nate Hodgeman

Whiffle Ball Winners: Tim Hughes and Ryan Berg

Kiddie Tractor Pull Winners: We had 16 participants.
Age 4/5: Matt Thulin
Age 6/7: Nolan VanSlyke
Age 8/9: Henry Hiebenthal

Fun Run: We had 59 participants with Jonathan Ripke overall winner with a time of 19.17.
0-15 Female 0-15 Male
1st - Cassie Wade 1st - Alex Abbott
2nd - Alyson Stuart 2nd - Duncan Paczo
3rd - Justine Cherovky 3rd - Ethan Dyas

16-30 Female 16-30 Male
1st - Amanda Huizenga 1st - Jonathan Ripke
2nd - Angie Siske 2nd - Collin Lindley
3rd - Laura Jirovski 3rd - Brandon Pickworth

31-54 Female 31-54 Male
1st - Rose Sutton 1st - David Kritz
2nd - Robin Streit 2nd - Chad Nadgwick
3rd - Jodie Limbach 3rd - Aaron Johnson

55+ Female 55+ Male
1st - Mary Casey 1st - Robert Williams
2nd - June Moline 2nd - Ray Casey

Duck Races: Frontier Coop Duck “Flapper”

Texas Hold’em Tournament had nine participants with the top three places awarded:
1st Place: Bryan Rohl (?); 2nd Place: Jason Felty; 3rd Place: Karol Osterloh

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR MEAD RESIDENTS -
Island Maintenance: The island located at the north entrance along Elm Street is being maintained this year by Marilyn Jensen and the Mead FFA and sponsor, Thomas Dux. Thank you for your hard work at keeping the flowers and plants maintained.

Refurbish Community Building / Fire Station: The Mead Rural Fire District #8 has signed a 99-year lease agreement with the Village of Mead to maintain the Community Building / Fire Station. The building is currently undergoing a complete renovation with an addition to the north. Rental of the building is not available at this time. Future rentals will be handled by Fire Department personnel.

Smoke Detectors: FREE smoke detectors and batteries are available at the Village Office. This project is supported by the Mead Fire Department.

Cut Curb: There is code to follow if you plan to cut into a street. Contact the Village Office prior to doing so.

Building/Demolition Permits: Please be aware that if you plan to build/remodel/demolish a building, you must seek a permit prior to the Planning Commission meeting. Excluded projects are concrete projects or an accessory building less than 150 sq. ft.

Peddlers: All peddlers shall have an authorized signature on their permit form, along with the village’s official seal.

Siren: A new siren has been mounted south of the Community Building / Fire Station. Funding was provided by a grant and local dollars. A back-up battery was also purchased for the siren.

Recycling / Disposal Facility: Discussion was held at the May 21 Planning Commission regarding a proposed Construction and Demolition Material Recycling and Disposal Facility to be located southwest of Mead. The proposed property sits within Saunders County zoning jurisdiction although the owner of the property was seeking the opinion of local residents regarding the proposed project. The project was not brought before the Board of Trustees.

Residents - Please keep your dogs on leash when off your property. You are also required to pick up excrement from public / private property other than your own. REMINDER - All cats and dogs are to be licensed NOW!

If you see or find a dog running at large, please contact Police Chief Carlson at 402-624-2056.


CONCERNS FOR VILLAGE RESIDENTS REGARDING THE DUMPSITE

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THE ONLY ITEMS ALLOWED TO BE DUMPED AT THE DUMPSITE ARE:

TREE BRANCHES LEAVES WEEDS GRASS CLIPPINGS

WE DO NOT PERMIT TREATED WOOD!!!!

THE DUMPING FEE IS $2.00 PER LOAD. PLEASE DUMP DURING DUMP HOURS ONLY!

A DUMPSTER FOR METAL PRODUCTS IS AVAILABLE AT THE DUMPSITE AT A COST OF $2.00 PER LOAD.

Thank you to Jim Halbmaier, Steve Mayfield, and June Moline for their services during Mead Clean Up Day. A special thank-you to Lyle and Hosea with Quality Disposal for their help. They always do an exceptional job in helping us. Four dumpsters, along with a metal dumpster and truckload of tires were filled by residents during this annual event. Thank you for your support!

Recent improvements have been made by the Mead Ball Association at the Mead Park. Concrete walkways have been laid south of the pavilion and west of the concession stand. Electricity will be run to the batting cage allowing for use of the pitching machine and lighting. Thank you to Terral Brabec, who spearheaded the concrete project and the other dedicated volunteers and organizations in support of these improvement projects.


SPECIAL MEETING OF THE TRUSTEES

The Mead Board of Trustees met in Special Session on June 6 at 6:00 p.m. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Miller, Raver & Wielage. Also present were Clerk Moline & Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver. Guests were Steve Parr, Tim Adams, Mike Sousek, Terry Meier, Erik Dodge & Patty Knott.

Tim Adams, JEO Consulting Group, presented options for future infrastructure projects for water & wastewater treatment. Discussion followed with agreement reached to delay project decision until we hear from the WEWAC Committee regarding funding sources.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:34 p.m.

TRUSTEES MEET JUNE 12
A regular meeting of the Mead Board of Trustees was held June 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Raver & Wielage. Absent was Miller. Also present were Clerk Moline & Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver. Guests present were Julie Ogden, Paul & Patty Knott & Jerry Johnson.

A Public Hearing was called at 6:03 p.m. Action was taken to approve first reading of Ordinance 628, Deposit rate to move sheds, garages, homes and mobile homes. The hearing was adjourned at 6:07 p.m.

Julie Ogden, JEO Consulting Group, presented the final Mead/Frontier Co-op Drainage Study.

REPORTS: Utility / Maintenance Supt. N. Raver reported reapplication of the Needs Survey to DEQ & chlorinator repaired. Discussed back-up water operator position. Clerk Moline reported sale of 62 pet licenses, Accountant Schroeder scheduled for nine-month review on July 9 and attendance with A. Raver for ground breaking at Mead-Titan. Police Report was reviewed. Minutes were approved for the Planning Commission May 21 meeting & hearing. Building Permits approved: 12-10, Mead Rural Fire District—addition to Community Bldg and 12-11, Platte Valley—sign. Library snapshot reviewed.

Action was taken to hire EyeTech to clean the storm sewer along Sixth St. from Vine St. to Cedar St.; approved payment of $2540.00 for a pump at the park; adopted Ord. 626, Building Permit Rates; approved second reading of Ord. 627, Rate for Planning Commission Special Meeting; approved reappointment of Divoll, Kadavy & Thorson to the Planning Commission; approved permit for Mike Maly to cut street curb; approved Resolution 12-10, Deposit of $100.00 per cu. yd. for all paving, curb or sidewalk cutting; approved Resolution 12-11, Loan from the Bank of Mead for $5,890.00 to purchase a battery for the siren; approved a request from Windstream to place buried cable on public right-of-way within Mead corporate limits; and approved an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Wahoo to spray mosquitoes. Letter to be sent to residents reminding them not to blow grass clippings into the streets. The Integrated Solid Waste Management Regulations Permit application from NE DEQ for AltEn was presented. Complaints regarding dogs were discussed.

The board entered executive session at 7:30 p.m. for Haag evaluation. The board returned to regular session at 7:35 p.m. Haag’s wage was set at $15.50 hour.

The meeting adjourned at 7:41 p.m.


VILLAGE OF MEAD
312 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46
Mead, NE 68041-0046
Phone: (402) 624-2495
Fax: (402) 624-2024
E-mail: meadclerk1@hotmail.com
Web: www.meadnebraska.net

Steve Mayfield, Chairman
Jim Halbmaier, Trustee
Adam Miller, Trustee
Ailene Raver, Trustee
Richard Wielage, Trustee

June Moline, Clerk/Treas. 624-2495
Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt. 443-9688
Jerry Carlson, Police Chief 624-2056
Vera Kuhr, Librarian 624-6605
Nick Raver, Fire Chief 443-9688

VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS
Village Board: Tuesday, July 10 , 6:00pm
Planning Commission: Monday, July 23, 7:30pm
Library Board: NO JULY MEETING
Fire & Rescue: Monday, July 9, 7:30pm

REMINDER
DO NOT blow grass clippings or rake leaves into the streets!
The village recently had the streets cleaned !


Church Services

ALMA LUTHERAN 219 W Fifth St.
http://www.almalutheran.com/ / 402-624-3015
Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken)
10:30 am - all other Sundays
9:15 am Sunday School for all ages
7:00 pm Youth Meeting

PANERA BREAD - July 14, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
(free to the public, every month the Saturday after the second Friday )

EVANGELICAL COVENANT 1540 Co Rd 10
Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125
9:00 am Coffee & visiting
10:00 am Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30, nursery available during service)

Weekly Schedule
Tuesday
7:00 pm Men’s Study
Wednesday
6:00 pm Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone)
7:00 pm Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible)
7:00 pm Jr./Sr. High Youth Group

PRIMETIMER”S - July 12, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
(second Thursday every month, potluck meal served)

ST. JAMES CATHOLIC 213 E. Eighth St.
sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555
5:30 pm Saturday Mass
9:00 am Sunday Mass
Weekly Schedule
7:00 am Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
5:30 pm Daily Mass - Tuesday
8:00 am Daily Mass - Saturday

Mead Community Group Healthy Family Tip of the Month
“I Hate You!” Tips for Dealing with the Teen Age Years

Most parents of teenagers would agree that they have heard the words, “I hate you”, at least once. If they haven't heard it they have felt “the look.” The teen years are a stage of life that can make even the best parents feel unqualified, unfit, and out of control. Here are a few ideas to help:

*Breath: literally, taking a deep breath calm's your body's fight or flight response, lowers the heart rate and blood pressure and can help restore reason. It also provides a good model for your teen.

*Resist the temptation to stoop to their level: “A right back at you” response might provide temporary relief to vent your frustration, but it will not help in the long run. Your teen needs to see you remain calm, even under pressure.

*Understand the teenage brain: The teen's prefrontal cortex (the reasoning part of the brain) is in a stall , which is why they typically respond emotionally and without a lot of common sense.

*Try not to take what feels insulting and hurtful personally: Easier said than done, but usually the “I hate you” really means “I hate that I'm grounded” or “I hate that I can't use the computer for a week.” Your child loves you and is watching and listening to everything you say and do.

*Show empathy: Remember what it was like to be a teenager and talk to your child about your memories. “I can tell you're really disappointed” can go a long way in mending a strained relationship.

*Look for Opportunities to Connect: Use any calm time , such as car rides, meals, or the end of day, to be present for your child. Listen without editing or fixing. Use written words to communicate when spoken ones fall short, i.e. an encouraging text or a note on their pillow.

Everyday Parenting Ideas, www.parentfurther.com

THANK YOU, Dalene and Scott Selko and Staci and Jerry Charles and their “crew” and Mead Fire Department members for their hard work and dedicated service during Mead Days. Many of the volunteers are “unnamed” in this article, but know that the village residents appreciate all of your dedicated service to this event year after year!

MEAD PUBLIC SCHOOL / MEAD MESSENGER NEWSLETTER AVAILABLE

Have you been receiving the Mead Public School / Village of Mead Newsletter throughout the year? To save on postage, the newsletter is placed on-line. If you wish to receive a paper copy of the School / Village Newsletter please contact Kris Schutt at Mead Public Schools, 402-624-3435. You will need to provide your mailing address to Kris. The Newsletter will be mailed or you can sign up to receive an email from the school office as to when the newsletter is available on-line. You may also read the newsletter on-line at meadpublicschools.org. Click on “Quicklinks” and then “Newsletter”.



A BIG, BIG THANKS TO ALL THAT DONATED TO MEAD DAYS 2012

GOLD DONORS $100.00+
AWS - Bank of Mead - Big Rig Truck Accessories - Terral Brabec -
Charles Surveying L.L.C. - Jerry & Staci Charles - Complete Mudjacking-Brad Osterloh - Country Store - Frontier Coop - Dean Hansen - Dan & Roberta Havelka - Tuning Fork Audio Productions-Cody Heinke - Hilltop Country Club - Insulfoam - Doug & Jeannette Johnson - Kid’s Corner DayCare - Paul & Patty Knott - Konecky Oil - Mead Cattle Company - Mead Community Group - Mead Signs - Miller Lawn Service - Pelster Construction-Dick & Kay Pelster - Russ Petersen-Russ Bus - Platte Valley Implement - P.J. & Lesha Quinn - Raider Nation Auto-Plex LLC - Rusty Rooster - Saunders County Development - Dalene Selko-Mary Kay - Sprinkled Pink - Subbert Well Service - Todd Valley Farms - Turf Pros-Gary Else - Village of Mead - Stuart Way - Wahoo Area Recreation Association - Wanahoo Aviation-Doug Patocka

SILVER DONORS $50.00-$99.00
Alma Lutheran Church - Country Drive Golf Course - Cubby’s - Shawn & Penny Havelka - S2 Refuse & Recycling - The Pines Country Club

BRONZE DONORS $49.00 AND UNDER
1Smart Golfer.com - Bomgaars - Brewsy’s Food & Spirits - Burger King - Creative Hair Works - Dairy Queen - Dale Nygren Welding - DJ Hair - Dos Margaritas - Edward Jones - Green Acres - Hair Studio-Judy Rasmus - Hot Grill on Grill Action - Husker Water - Jeris’ Café - Kohl’s Department Store - Lucille’s Gift Shop - M L Sporting Goods - Mocha K’s - Oriental Trading-Karen Porter - Robert & Elaine Pearson - Pizza Hut - St. James Catholic Church - Simon’s Antiques - Sunmart - Kent & Linda Sweet - Tanning Studio - Vera Huckeby - Virgl Implement - Wahoo Newspaper - Wahoo State Bank - Wahoo Warehouse Surplus - Woody’s Bar & Grill - Zestos Ice Cream

Newsletter June 2012

MEAD MESSENGER
Village of Mead
VILLAGE OF MEAD
 Volume 9, Issue 6

JUNE 2012 CLEAN-UP DAY SATURDAY, June 9, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 312 South Vine (downtown in front of village office)
EXAMPLE OF PERMITTED ITEMS: Tires Appliances Water heaters Bicycles Batteries Trash A fee for disposal of tires will be charged
ITEMS NOT PERMITTED: Wood Grass clippings Construction Refuse Tree limbs The event is open to MEAD RESIDENTS ONLY! Council members will be present to check resident identification!

CONCERNS FOR VILLAGE RESIDENTS REGARDING THE DUMPSITE PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THE ONLY ITEMS ALLOWED TO BE DUMPED AT THE DUMPSITE ARE: TREE BRANCHES LEAVES WEEDS GRASS CLIPPINGS WE DO NOT PERMIT TREATED WOOD!!!! THE DUMPING FEE IS $2.00 PER LOAD. PLEASE DUMP DURING DUMP HOURS ONLY! A DUMP FOR METAL PRODUCTS IS AVAILABLE AT THE DUMPSITE AT A COST OF $2.00 PER LOAD.

Residents - Please keep your dogs on leash when off your property. You are also required to pick up excrement from public / private property other than your own. REMINDER - All cats and dogs are to be licensed NOW! If you find a dog running at large, please contact Police Chief Carlson at 402-624-2056.

VILLAGE OF MEAD
 312 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46 Mead, NE 68041-0046
Phone: (402) 624-2495 Fax: (402) 624-2024 E-mail: meadclerk1@hotmail.com
Web: http://www.meadnebraska.net/
Steve Mayfield, Chairman
Jim Halbmaier, Trustee Adam Miller, Trustee Ailene Raver, Trustee Richard Wielage, Trustee
June Moline, Clerk/Treas. 624-2495 Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt. 443-9688 Jerry Carlson, Police Chief 624-2056 Vera Kuhr, Librarian 624-6605 Nick Raver, Fire Chief 443-9688

WANTED MEAD DAYS DONATIONS! The Mead Days Committee is requesting donations for Mead Days 2012 to be held June 15, 16 and 17. Donations can be in the form of cash or items for Bingo. All donations can be dropped off at the Bank of Mead or mailed to the Bank of Mead, Box 64, Mead, NE 68041. Thank you for supporting Mead’s Annual Event - MEAD DAYS! MEAD

COMMUNITY GROUP NEWS

In 2008, there were 6.2 million Americans aged 12 years and older who abused prescription drugs for non-medical purposes within the past month - more than the number of people who are abusing cocaine, heroin, hallucinogens, and inhalants, combined. Prescription drugs are new drug abusers' drugs of choice. In 2008, on average, 6,000 persons per day abused prescription pain relievers for the first time. The total number of individuals that initiate with any controlled substance pharmaceutical for the first time far exceeds the number of individuals that abuse marijuana for the first time. Every day, on average, 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time. 1 in 7 teens admit to abusing prescription drugs to get high in the past year. Sixty percent of teens who abused prescription pain relievers did so before the age of 15. Fifty-six percent of teens believe that prescription drugs are easier to get than illicit drugs. 2 in 5 teens believe that prescription drugs are "much safer" than illegal drugs. And 3 out of 10 teens believe that prescription pain relievers are not addictive. Sixty-three percent of teens believe that prescription drugs are easy to get from the medicine cabinets of family and friends. According to the Center of Disease Control, prescription drugs, including opioids and antidepressants, are responsible for more overdose deaths than "street drugs" such as cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines. Bring unwanted, unused medications, over the counter, pet meds, vitamins, etc. to a Pharmaceutical Take-Back program, if available. If you can't bring the pharmaceuticals to an event, remember that you can safely dispose of pills and syrups at home. *Place unwanted medication in a plastic bag and crush it or add water. *Mix in coffee grounds, cat litter or sawdust. *Seal the bag and place in trash. DO NOT FLUSH OR POUR DOWN THE DRAIN! This may save a life and prevent someone from breaking into your home for your pills. Thank you in advance for caring about the safety of our community! Information provided by Gage county MAPS community coalition
The Mead Community Group will be sponsoring a free movie night at the high school for the kids on Saturday, June 16th during Mead Days. 6:30 pm movie for the younger audience 8:30 pm starts the movie aimed at the tweens

VILLAGE OF MEAD BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Village of Mead Board of Trustees met May 8, 2012 at the Village Office. Acting Chair A. Raver called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Answering roll call were Trustees Halbmaier, Miller, Raver and Wielage. Absent was Chairman Mayfield.

The board entered a public hearing at 6:05 p.m. Action was taken to adopt Ord. 622 to amend Article 3, Section 8 of the Subdivision Regulations with the addition of item H. Single lot subdivisions of existing recorded lots, or similar conditions, in other districts may be approved through administrative action by the Planning Commission. The hearing was adjourned at 6:08 p.m.

SCHEDULED GUESTS:
Olsson Associates, Jerry Hain and Ben Day, presented services their engineering firm offers.
Terry Meier, JEO Consulting Group, presented WEWAC applications for water and wastewater projects. Dave Henke, JEO Consulting Group, presented options available for water, wastewater and water storage facility projects.
Julie Ogden and Michael Bash, JEO Consulting Group, presented the draft copy of the Mead / Frontier Co-op Drainage Study. Options and costs will be available with the final report.
Jeff Barris updated the board regarding clean up of his property and garage repairs.

UNSCHEDULED GUESTS: Jeff Getzschman advised the board of plans to construct a shooting range.

UTILITY/MAINTENANCE REPORT: N. Raver reported repairs at the wastewater plant, culvert cleaning along N. Elm St., samples for a proposed well site and backup water operator. A bid was received from Big Red Home Improvement for $600.00 and two bids received from SECO of $1,350.00 to replace a pole or $4,400.00 to wire underground to replace the pole. Bids were for repairs caused by a tree branch falling on the restroom at the park during a recent storm. Moline reported insurance check has been received for $1,450.00. The bid from Big Red Home Improvement and $1,350.00 bid from SECO were accepted to make the repairs.

POLICE REPORT: The monthly activity report and property clean-up process was reported. Discussion was held on recent rental at the Community Bldg.

CLERK REPORT: Moline presented a request from the Wahoo Ball Assoc. to use the softball field for their annual tournament during the Memorial Day weekend. Approval was granted. Discussion was held on Code 3-105 and 3-116.01 regarding water hook-ups and private wells and sale of fifty dog / cat license’ to date.

PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT: The minutes of the 4/18 Special Meeting and 4/23 Regular Meeting and Building Permits 12-07, 12-08 and 12-09 were reported. Future discussion of a proposed Construction and Demolition Material Recycling and Disposal Facility were noted.

LIBRARY REPORT: No report provided.

Action was taken to approve payment for future electrical use at the batting cage, with installation of electricity to be paid by the Mead Ball Assoc., heard second reading of Ord 626, Building Permit Rates and first reading of Ord. 627, Planning Commission Special Meeting Rate. A letter of resignation was read from Gil Frey, discussion was held on back-up water operator, request heard from St. James Catholic Church for a street sign at the intersection of Co Rd 10 and 8th St. They were directed to obtain approval and the sign from Saunders County. Marilyn Jensen volunteered 40 hours to maintain the island located at the entry into Mead as she is working toward her Master Gardener certification. Moline reported Marietta Livestock 4-H Club cleaned the park recently as part of their service project. Saunders County Senior Diner Program and police coverage were discussed. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. A resident has delivered a child’s book they found while walking on April 18. If you are missing a book, please claim at the Village of Mead office.

VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS
Village Board: Tuesday, June 12 , 6:00pm
Planning Commission: Monday, June 25, 7:30pm
Library Board: Wednesday, June 6, 7:00pm
Fire & Rescue: Monday, June 11, 7:30pm
The Village Board and Planning Commission meet at the Village Office, Library Board at the Library and the Fire Department at the Fire Hall.

CROSS CONNECT INFORMATION

Where is an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker used? Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers may be used only on connections to a non-potable system where the vacuum breaker is never subjected to back-pressure and is installed on the discharge side of the last control valve. It must be installed above the usage point. It cannot be used under continuous pressure. Where is a Hose Bibb Vacuum Breaker used? Hose Bibb Vacuum Breakers are small inexpensive devices with hose connections which are simply attached to sill cocks, and threaded faucets or wherever there is a possibility of a hose being attached which could be introduced to a contaminant. However, like the Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker they should not be used under continuous pressure. Where is a Pressure Vacuum Breaker used? Pressure Vacuum Breakers may be used as protection for connections to all types of non-potable systems where the vacuum breakers are not subject to back-pressure. These units may be used under continuous supply pressure. They must be installed above the usage point.

Panara Bread will be available to the public on Saturday, June 9 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. Come pick up the free bread products at the Alma Lutheran Church basement. Panara Bread is available the Saturday after the second Friday of the month.

CLOTHING PANTRY Free Clothing June 9, 10am - 5pm Alma Lutheran Church

PRIMETIMER’S will be held at the Mead Covenant Church on Thursday, June 14 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Potluck will be served. Primetimer’s meet the second Thursday of the month.

Church Services
ST. JAMES CATHOLIC
 213 E. Eighth St. sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555 5:30 pm
 Saturday Mass 9:00 am Sunday Mass Weekly Schedule 7:00 am Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 5:30 pm Daily Mass - Tuesday 8:00 am Daily Mass - Saturday

ALMA LUTHERAN
219 W Fifth St. www.almalutheran.com / 402-624-3015
Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken) 10:30 am - all other Sundays 9:15 am Sunday School for all ages 7:00 pm Youth Meeting

EVANGELICAL COVENANT
1540 Co Rd 10 Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125
9:00 am Coffee & visiting 10:00 am Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30, nursery available during service) Weekly Schedule Tuesday 7:00 pm Men’s Study Wednesday 6:00 pm Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone) 7:00 pm Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible) 7:00 pm Jr./Sr. High Youth Group

Newsletter May 2012

Mead Messenger Village of Mead MAY 2012 Volume 9, Issue 5 VILLAGE OF MEAD BOARD OF TRUSTEES HOLD NUMEROUS MEETINGS The Village Board of Trustees met 4/10 at 6pm at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield and Trustees Halbmaier & Raver. Absent were Miller & Wielage. Others present were Clerk Moline, Utilities/Maintenance Supt. N. Raver & Police Chief Carlson. Guests were Mike Sousek, Terry Meier, Tim Adams, George Robertson, Dave Henke, Jody Weible, Connie Schliffke, Don Anderson, Duane Johnson & Bryce Anderson. The Board entered a Public Hearing at 6:05pm. Ord. No. 622, Add Item H to Zoning Regulations. The board returned to Regular Session at 6:10pm. SCHEDULED GUESTS: Mike Sousek, NE Resources Dist. Lower Platte North, presented water options. The option to pipe water from the National Guard was not considered due to the cost and timeline. A second option may be to pipe from the City of Wahoo. The board indicated they are looking to locate a well northeast of town but is awaiting water samples from the site. Terry Meier, JEO Consulting, discussed financing options for a new well. He asked that application be resubmitted to the WEWAC Committee for funding based on community need. Duane Johnson & Don Anderson represented Mead Rural Fire District #8 in regard to the 99-year lease of the Community Bldg./Fire Station. Three readings of Ord. 625 were waived & Ord. 625 was adopted authorizing the Village to enter into a Triple Net Lease of the Community Bldg./Fire Station with Mead Rural Fire Dist #8 from 6/1/2012 through 5/31/2111 at a rate of $1.00 per year. Bryce Anderson inquired about placement of an additional trailer at Andy’s Trailer Park. It was indicated the trailer could not meet setback requirements. Application may be made for a resident to place a shed on the property. UNSCHEDULED GUEST: Jody Weible inquired about the Mead FFA placing a sign on school property. UTILITY/MAINTENANCE REPORT: N. Raver reported on Wastewater Permit, five-year Toxicology Report, cleaning process for wells, hydrants in need of repair & receipt of new siren. He indicated the need of a back-up battery for the siren. Action was taken to approve the purchase of the back-up battery for $6,800.00. Inquires were addressed from residents on use of the bobcat & dump truck. The Bobcat rental must follow guidelines & the dump truck is not to be rented. POLICE REPORT: Carlson reported on property nuisances, receipt of a camera from the Crisis Center to be used solely for domestic abuse cases & Diversion Program to be held at Mead High School Prom on 4/21. CLERK REPORT: Moline reported on meter repair timeline & sessions addressed at Clerk’s School. She thanked the board & co-workers for their support in receipt of her Village Clerk of the Year Award from the NE Clerk’s Assoc. PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT: The minutes of the 3/26 Regular Meeting & 3/26 Public Hearing & Bldg. Permit 12-06, Mead Public Schools - bus barn addition were reviewed. LIBRARY REPORT: The 4/6 meeting minutes were reviewed. NEW BUSINESS: Action was taken to approve Res. 12-07, Lien on Property for Delinquent Water Account; Res. 12-09, Interlocal Agreement for a Mutual Aid Organization; waive three readings & approve Ord. 623, Garbage Franchise with Quality Disposal & Ord. 624, Garbage Franchise with Waste Connections; & heard first reading of Ord. 626, Building Permit Fees. Petition request was heard from Kent Bernbeck, resignation accepted from Tracy Sterba as Custodian, & discussion was held on PTO benefit payments. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. TRUSTEES HOLD SPECIAL MEETING ON APRIL 18TH A special meeting of the Board of Trustees took place on April 18 at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Office. Present were Chairman Mayfield; Trustees Halbmaier, Miller, A. Raver & Wielage. Due to not meeting requirements with board members present to waive three readings of previous ordinances, all were considered null & void from the April 10 meeting. Action was taken to waive three readings & adopt Ord. 623, Garbage Franchise with Quality Disposal; Ord. 624, Garbage Franchise with Waste Connections & Ord. 625, Authorizing the Village to enter into a Triple Net Lease of the Community Bldg./Fire Station with Mead Rural Fire District #8. Tracy Varble was hired as Custodian at $8.00 per hour, approved hire of Eye Tech to clean the storm sewer west of Aggregate Carriers & approved House Moving Permit to Scribs House Moving for removal of pigeon house from Dale Freeman residence. Material was reviewed from Olsson & Associates regarding water projects they have engineered. The meeting adjourned at 7:39 p.m. OPERATION LIFESAVER – THINK WHEN YOU SAVE Stopping safely at farm-rail crossings 1. Stop no closer than 15 feet from the nearest rail. Allow extra distance for front-mounted buckets and chemical tanks on farm tractors. 2. To better hear the train, open machinery cab windows, turn off radios and fans, and remove headphones. 3. Make sure that the farm machinery is properly lined up with the farm rail crossing to ensure safe passage over the train tracks. 4. While stopped, look carefully in each direction for approaching trains, moving head and eyes to see around obstructions such as mirrors, windshield pillar and passengers. RESUME TRAVEL: 1. Before resuming, make sure there is enough room on the other side of the train track or tracks to fully clear without stopping. Don't stop on the tracks to open or close gates! 2. Make sure that any towed equipment does not become unhitched while crossing. 3. Watch wagons and other equipment during the crossing so leaded materials are not dislodged onto the train tracks. Some farm equipment is uniquely designed for field work and does not transport well across farm-rail crossings. Do not attempt a crossing with low-slung equipment that can become lodged on "humped" crossings. When operating new farm machinery over farm-rail crossing for the first time, make sure that heavier and wider equpment can be safely moved over the crossing. Some farm equpments transports toxic materials, including pesticides and fertilizers Take extra care with nurse tanks containing anhydrous ammonia. Hitch pins can become dislodged when moving across rough farm-rail crossings. Some farm equipment hauls heavy commodities, including bulk manure and grain. Take extra care that farm tractors towing loaded bulk manure tanks will fully clear the crossing quickly and safely. Take extra care with loaded grain wagons that could tip over if the wheels are not properly lined up with the crossing. If for any reason you get stuck on the track, get out of the equipment and away from the track. Check any signposts or signal housings at the crossing for emergency notification information, including a 1-800 emergency notification number. Look for a U.S. Department of Transportation number (U.S. DOT), six digits plus a letter, that will help you identify the crossing location. Immediately call the 1-800 emergency notification number, if available. If not, call 911 and provide the 911 dispatcher with the crossing location, the U.S. DOT number, if available, and all identifiable landmarks. THANK-YOU, Denise Patocka and her volunteers for coordinating the Annual Mead Easter Egg Hunt. Also, thank you to the businesses and persons who sponsored the event with dollar and candy donations. COMMUNITY POINTS OF INTEREST AS SPRING ARRIVES *All dogs and cats within village boundaries are to be licensed by MAY 1st. Licenses available at the Village Office during regular business hours or by mailing required payment and shot documentation to Box 46, Mead. *Dogs are not permitted to run at large within the community. There have been several cases already this spring of dogs running loose. *Owners of all animals are responsible for the removal of any excreta deposited on public or private property. The owner is also responsible for the removal of any trash or garbage that is scattered or removed from its rightful place. *No person, firm or organization shall abandon any vehicle within the village. *All yards are to be maintained at all times. Grass and weeds shall be no taller than 12”. Owners are to cut and clear such real estate, together with 1/2 of the streets and alleys abutting their property. Grass is not to be mowed into the street. *The owner or occupant of any lot or parcel of ground abutting or adjacent to any street or sidewalk over which there extends the branches of trees shall at all times keep the branches or limbs trimmed to the height of at least 14’. Thank you, Tracy Sterba for serving as the Village Custodian for the past year. Tracy Varble has been hired as the new custodian for the Village of Mead. Thank you, Gil Frey for your dedicated service to the village water and sewer departments for the last number of years. You will be missed! DUMP HOURS Wednseday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Thank you to the members and leaders of Marietta Livestock 4-H Club for sprucing up the park on April 18. They were busy picking up sticks and raking the grounds. It looks super! Thank you for choosing the Mead Park as your Community Project. A resident has delivered a child’s book they found while walking on April 18. If you are missing a book, please claim at the Village of Mead office. Church Services EVANGELICAL COVENANT 1540 Co Rd 10 Ec34720@windstream.net / 402-624-6125 9:00 am Coffee & visiting 10:00 am Worship service (grade school age children dismissed for Kids Alive @ 10:30, nursery available during service) PRIMETIMER’S - May 10, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Weekly Schedule Tuesday 7:00 pm Men’s Study Wednesday 6:00 pm Dinner 4 Change (free to everyone) 7:00 pm Life Group / Bible Study (an opportunity to hear answers to tough questions of the Bible) 7:00 pm Jr./Sr. High Youth Group ST. JAMES CATHOLIC 213 E. Eighth St. sjamescatholicchurch.com / 402-624-3555 5:30 pm Saturday Mass 9:00 am Sunday Mass Weekly Schedule 7:00 am Daily Mass - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 5:30 pm Daily Mass - Tuesday 8:00 am Daily Mass - Saturday ALMA LUTHERAN 219 W Fifth St. www.almalutheran.com / 402-624-3015 Worship - 8:30 am - first Sunday of the month (spoken) 10:30 am - all other Sundays 9:15 am Sunday School for all ages 7:00 pm Youth Meeting PANERA BREAD - May 12, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. MEAD’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE Saturday, May 5, 2012 8:00 a.m.– 2:00 p.m. Rain or Shine! Maps will be available at local businesses. If you wish to be placed on the Village Garage Sale Map please contact the Village Office at 624-2495 by FRIDAY, APRIL 27. A limited number of tables will be available to borrow from the Community Bldg. Contact the village office (624-2495) to reserve tables (limit 2). VILLAGE OF MEAD 312 S. Vine St., P.O. Box 46 Mead, NE 68041-0046 Phone: (402) 624-2495 Fax: (402) 624-2024 E-mail: meadclerk1@hotmail.com Web: www.meadnebraska.net Steve Mayfield, Chairman Jim Halbmaier, Trustee Adam Miller, Trustee Ailene Raver, Trustee Richard Wielage, Trustee June Moline, Clerk/Treas. 624-2495 Nick Raver, Ut/Mnt. Supt. 443-9688 Jerry Carlson, Police Chief 624-2056 Vera Kuhr, Librarian 624-6605 Nick Raver, Fire Chief 443-9688 WANTED - MEAD DAYS DONATIONS! The Mead Days Committee is requesting donations for Mead Days 2012 to be held June 15, 16 and 17. Donations can be in the form of cash or items for Bingo. All donations can be dropped off at the Bank of Mead or mailed to the Bank of Mead, Box 64, Mead, NE 68041. Thank you for supporting Mead’s Annual Event - MEAD DAYS! VILLAGE OF MEAD UPCOMING MEETINGS Village Board: Tuesday, May 8, 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission: Monday, May 21, 7:30 p.m. Library Board: Wednesday, May 2, 7:00 p.m. Fire & Rescue: Monday, May 14, 7:30 p.m. The Village Board and Planning Commission meet at the Village Office, Library Board at the Library and the Fire Department at the Fire Hall. The Annual Mead Community Clean-Up Day is scheduled for Saturday, June 9 from 9:00 am until 12:00 noon. This event is open to Mead residents only. Mead Community Group Healthy Family Tip of the Month How do you feel about your children gambling? It's all around us these days with the Powerball Lottery, televised Texas Hold'em, organized pools to bet on football and basketball games, scratch cards, and online poker. At one time, Las Vegas and Atlantic City were a long ways from the midwest, but times have progressed and the internet/television has brought things into our lives that never used to be a worry. It is good for us to be aware of how this all affects our families. Did you know that gambling is a highly risky behavior for youth, much like using drugs or alcohol and engaging in sexual activity. It is important that parents are aware of this and that they understand kids' brains are different from grown-ups. When children start engaging in high risk activities early, when their brains are still developing, they are prone to have lifelong addiction troubles. So.......what do we do? Talk to our kids about gambling and your expectations. Be aware of your gambling habits and the habits of the adults around you. If you discover your child is gambling, be careful to not overreact. As with everything, communication is the best advice. For more information on this topic and other healthy family tips, see www.parentfurther.com.