11/28/2024
As I sit down to write this Thanksgiving column, my heart is about as full as my plate will be on Thursday—piled high with turkey, mashed potatoes, and a slice of pie (or three). Before we dive into the gravy boat of gratitude, let me just say: if you’re reading this, thank you. If you’re one of our advertisers, double thank you. And if you’re both, well, bless your soul, because you’re basically the MVP of this whole operation.
Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, and wow, what a year it’s been for our community. We’ve shared moments of triumph and joy, experienced bittersweet endings, and built a deeper appreciation for what makes this little corner of Nebraska truly special. Our days have been filled with parades, celebrations, and quiet acts of kindness that so often go unnoticed. Let’s take a walk down memory lane, shall we?
First, let’s talk about Veterans Day, a day when we all came together to honor the men and women who served this country with courage and sacrifice. If you were there, you know how powerful it was to see neighbors standing shoulder to shoulder, flags waving in the breeze, as we reflected on the price of freedom. Veterans and their families reminded us of the true meaning of service, and it was a privilege to be part of that gratitude-filled day. In a world that often feels divided, moments like these remind us of what unites us: love for our country and respect for those who protect it. Free candy also doesn’t seem to hurt.
Speaking of pride, how about our students performing on the historic stage of the Orpheum Theatre? Just imagine it—lights dimmed, the crowd hushed, and then our local talent stepping into the spotlight. It was more than a performance; it was a dream realized. It’s easy to get caught up in the routine of everyday life, but seeing those students up there, representing our community, made me pause and think about the limitless potential growing right here in our own backyard. Man, it was awesome.
And then there’s Kernel Field, the home of summer nights and small-town magic. Whether it’s the crack of the bat, the laughter of kids chasing foul balls, or the smell of hot dogs wafting through the air, Kernel Field is where time seems to slow down. It’s a place where rivalries turn into friendships, and memories are made under the glow of the stadium lights. The old ball field provided moments of greatness this year. The Central City/Centura squad had some great performances this spring and that led to the Legion season. It was a banner year as next year the fence will sport a new championship banner. That’s Kernel Field for you—a mix of suspense, joy, and the comfort of community.
This year, we also celebrated homecoming in style both in Central City and the charming village of Clarks. From the parade that wound through town to the football game that brought the stands to life, it was a reminder of how deeply rooted our traditions are. Businesses joined in the fun, with decorations and Spirit Week contests that added an extra layer of excitement. Chasity Pfeifer and her crew at State Farm even claimed the title of Spirit Week champions, proving that the competitive spirit in this town extends far beyond the field.
But it hasn’t just been about the big events. It’s the little things that make this place special—the way our community shows up when it matters most. When the Central City football team was chasing history, becoming the first team in school history to qualify for a state final, the support was electric. And when Central City volleyball broke a years-long drought by defeating Aurora, you could feel the pride reverberating far beyond the court. Or the magic of a High Plains football playoff win in Clarks. Or even the Nebraska Christian volleyball team’s heartbreaking ending to an otherwise outstanding season in the Eagle’s Nest.
There’s also the unshakable generosity of our neighbors. Whether it’s donating time, money, or simply a kind word, this town knows how to take care of its own. One shining example is the way people rallied to celebrate the Merrick County Historical Museum moving closer to completion. It’s not just a building; it’s a monument to our shared past, a place where future generations can learn about the stories that brought us to where we are today.
And let’s not forget the people who keep this community humming day in and day out. There are the volunteers who organize parades, fundraisers, and blood drives. The business owners who sponsor everything from sports teams to classroom projects. The parents who juggle work, life, and about a million extracurricular activities without missing a beat. You’re the unsung heroes of this story, and this column wouldn’t be complete without a heartfelt thank you.
Of course, I’d be remiss not to mention the backbone of this operation: our readers and advertisers. You’re the reason we do what we do, the reason this paper continues to tell the stories of our community week after week. Whether you pick up a copy to catch up on local news, to see your kid’s name in the sports section, or to stay connected to our local narrative, you’re part of something bigger. You’re helping preserve the soul of this town, and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
And to our advertisers—you’re the stuffing to our Thanksgiving turkey. You fill the pages of this newspaper with opportunity, ensuring we can keep the presses running. Without your support, we’d be like a football game with no touchdowns—present, but missing the magic.
Now, let’s not get too sappy, because this is a Thanksgiving column, not a Hallmark movie. As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, let’s remember what makes this place so special: the people, the places, and the stories that tie us all together. Let’s celebrate the triumphs of the past year, from Kernel Field to the Orpheum stage, from parades to volleyball records. Let’s embrace the quirks, the challenges, and the joy of being part of something bigger than ourselves.
May your Thanksgiving be as warm as a hug from Grandma, as sweet as pumpkin pie, and as full of love as a night spent under the lights at Kernel Field. And as always, thank you for reading.
Taken, with permission, from Ryan Dettman’s column in this week’s edition.
