-Isms: Views on life in rural America

Random thoughts on a Tuesday, as this week’s deadline looms:

• Sometimes, an overactive imagination can be detrimental. I have a list of 10 column ideas, but the analogies weren’t panning out.

Oh, the words were flowing, no doubt about that, but the mental image wasn’t connecting among the dots.

There’s always next week.

• Small-town community celebrations are simply the best. The Page and Orchard communities put on great events this past weekend. From the purple and white balloons drifting from Aaron Hauf’s semi tractor-trailer during Orchard’s parade, to the community conversations held in Lamason Park in Page, it’s no wonder Summerland communities are some of the best spots to be in Nebraska. It takes a village filled with volunteers to make celebrations work. Kudos to all who helped.

• I can’t wait to see the finished product when Ewing’s duplex is completed. We have a rural housing problem, folks, and it needs fixed if our communities are to welcome new and former residents wishing to return home. It’s about vision and growth.

I say, “Bravo,” to community leaders in Ewing and Clearwater, for addressing the housing shortage.

Clearwater’s duplex project will be featured during an open house, Aug. 10, from 1 to 5 p.m. Cannot wait to check it out.

• It’s fair week. And then it’s another fair week, if you’re in the newspaper business. To my husband, I’ll see you in about a dozen days, when life slows down temporarily until school starts the following week.

The best part of the county fair, in my opinion, is that it showcases area youths and their investigation, dedication and hard work. The livestock shows can stretch hours, and sometimes, stepping in the exhibit hall is a bit of sensory overload - where do I look first?

In the long run, though, it’s worth it, especially when I (or any SAM photographers) capture the gamut of emotions shown by 4-H and FFA exhibitors.

Fair is, and always should be, about the kids. Without a robust youth program, the fair wouldn’t be the same.

• It’s Aug. 1, which means Husker football kicks off in 30 days. Can you feel it? I hope we Rhule all schools this season. Honestly, I’d be happy with a 9-3 record. Is that too much to ask?

• Finally, I’m calling on all the prayer warriors to keep our oldest grandson, Marvin, in your thoughts. This week, he will undergo exploratory surgery, in Omaha. I’m hopeful the doctor’s hands are steady and our family receives a positive prognosis. We appreciate your positive thoughts.