Editorial: One To Another

It may seem as if 2012 passed quickly into the history books--and thankfully so.

Remember, it was a year of drought and parched earth. Wildfires blazed through the scorching summer, farmers and ranchers struggled with the lack of moisture, the price of hay soared.

But 2012 was also a year when talk of an oil boom fueled by new drilling technology into Niobrara shale stirred--subdued talk, to be sure.

As in any year, the community suffered through difficult moments and celebrated wonderful occasions.

Despite the drought, Kimball’s Farmers Day drew large, excited crowds to a series of new attractions. The Kimball-Banner County Fair and rodeo once again rewarded young people for their skill with animals and knowledge of the agricultural world. And the counties earned Livestock Friendly designation, along with a visit from Governor Dave Heineman.

It was a year full of stories: local elections, murder trials, prison sentences, vandalism, openings and closings, odd moments (the gentleman peddling an old-fashioned bicycle cross country, for instance) and mergers. Of course, some of these seemed never to end. Bushnell received permission to destroy the carcass of the Bushnell Bar back in January. Debate began anew about the underpass that same month. Movement toward the construction on the long awaited rail spur was reported in March.

On these, we are still waiting for the conclusion.

So 2012 was a busy year. Perhaps that is why it seemed to come and go so quickly.

We will remember 2012 for the events and issues, as well as the people living in Nebraska’s panhandle who make each and every year special.

For that reason more than any, we look forward to 2013.