Murray Newsletter - April 29, 2026
In the mid-late 1930's, French horticulturist, Francis Meilland, developed the Peace Rose. When he learned of the impending German invasion of France, he sent cuttings to friends in other European countries and the United States. It is believed these cuttings were sent to the United States on the last plane available before the German invasion of France.
Each country receiving a rose cutting named the rose. As the Second World War came to a close in Europe, the American name, "Peace", was publicly announced on this day, April 29, 1945, and is our national flower. Later that same year, Peace roses were given to each delegate at the first meeting of the United Nations, in San Francisco, with a touching, meaningful note reading, "We hope the Peace rose will influence men's thoughts for everlasting world peace."
Don't you think now is a great time to add a Peace rose to your yard or garden? You could even give one as a gift for May Day or Mother's Day.
8:00am - 12:00pm & 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Monday - Friday
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PRIMARY ELECTION DAY, TUESDAY, MAY 12
National Library Week Proclaimed &
Letters About Literature Winners Honored
Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed April 19-25, 2026 National Library Week in Nebraska on April 21st at the Proclamation signing ceremony at the capitol. He also honored the student winners of the Letters About Literature writing contest with signed award certificates. These students wrote personal letters to authors explaining how his or her work changed their view of themselves or the world. They selected authors from any genre, fiction or nonfiction, contemporary or classic. Winners were chosen from three competition levels: upper elementary, middle school, and high school.
These students were then honored at a reception at Lincoln City Library’s Bennett Martin branch where they had the opportunity to read their letters and receive their awards. Their winning letters were then placed in the Jane Pope Geske Heritage Room of Nebraska Authors at Bennett Martin Public Library in Lincoln.
This annual contest is coordinated and sponsored by the Nebraska Center for the Book, Nebraska Library Commission, Lincoln City Libraries, Humanities Nebraska, Connie Osborne, Francie & Finch Bookshop of Lincoln, and Chapters Bookstore in Seward.
Young Nebraska writers honored are:
Level I (Grades 4-6):
Winner is Gabe Sowards of Tri-County Public Schools, who wrote to Evan Griffith about their book, Manatee Summer.
Runner-up is Emry Griesen of Lincoln’s Prescott Elementary, who wrote to Graeme Base about their book, The Eleventh Hour.
Level II (Grades 7-8):
Winner is Charlie Chance of Lincoln’s Scott Middle School who wrote to Gayle Forman about their book, I Have Lost My Way.
Runner-up is Harper Hoshaw of Omaha’s Lewis and Clark Middle School who wrote to Rainbow Rowell about their book, Carry On.
Level III (Grades 9-12):
Winner is Oliver Goddette of Wahoo Public High School, who wrote to Langston Hughes about their poem, Kids Who Die.
Runner-up is Eva Bordovsky of Wahoo Public High School, who wrote to Nicholas Sparks about their book The Notebook.
The Nebraska Center for the Book is housed at the Nebraska Library Commission and brings together the state’s readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, printers, educators, and scholars to build the community of the book, supporting programs to celebrate and stimulate public interest in books, reading, and the written word. The Nebraska Center for the Book is supported by the Nebraska Library Commission.
As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, “bringing together people and information.”
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The most up-to-date news releases from the Nebraska Library Commission are always available on the Library Commission Website, http://nlc.nebraska.gov/publications/newsreleases.
Hope & Healing Program
Removing Financial Barriers to Mental Health Care
Be the Light, Hope & Healing is a financial assistance program designed to ensure individuals and families can access professional mental health therapy — regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
Who We Are:
Be the Light, Hope & Healing is a program operated by Be the Light, Speak Up, Speak Out, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Our mission is simple: To ensure that cost does not prevent someone from receiving mental health support.
Who We Serve:
Clear your closets, garage, attic, basement, yard and storage units! Stick a sign in front of your house, get stuff outta there and make some cash, too!
You're free to post the flyer above on your social media pages. Maps won't be available, but if your signs are large, colorful and legible, shoppers will find you!
CASS COUNTY MUSEUM BROWN BAG DATES
The last Brown Bag date for this season will be and May 12. You may bring a sack lunch if you wish and enjoy the topic of the month.
The May program will start at noon and be presented by Margo Prentiss, Museum Curator. This power-point presentation will cover the history of Cass County Historical Society which was founded 90 years ago, on May 20,1936 and to celebrate this milestone birthday cake will be served during the program!
www.casscountynemuseum.org ccohsm@windstream.net
402-296-4770
Cass County Historical Museum is located at 646 Main Street, Plattsmouth, NE.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS, WE NEED YOUR UPDATED INFO!
Scrolling across the top of the Murray Newsletter, where it says "Commerce", business owners are encouraged to complete and submit this form:
"If your Business is noted Listed Click Here or Leave a VM at 402-968-0821 for a call back."
We are removing any business that does not submit their current information.
This is very necessary and long overdue. Thanks, Everyone!
DO YOU NEED HELP with FOOD, HOUSING or OTHER EMERGENCY SERVICES?
SENCA (Southeast Nebraska Community Action) is HERE to HELP YOU!
To drop off donations or pick up food at the local food pantry, you need to make an appointment.
Monday - Friday
8am - 4:30 pm
Call or text for appointment, 402-297-7418
SENCA Cass County Outreach
First Presbyterian Church, lower level
701 Chicago Ave.
Plattsmouth, NE 68048
(Please enter at the lower level on the north side of the church at the driveway directly across from Oakmont Drive, off of Chicago Avenue.)
SENCA GOLF TOURNAMENT SIGN-UP HERE.
SPRING into ACTION!
Severe Need for Blood Donors!
"You must never think of anything except the need and how to meet it."
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During World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called on individuals to address growing humanitarian needs. What started as a national call to action has become a community tradition, reaffirming the power of compassion and the impact we can make together.
Your support can make a lifesaving difference. Explore the ways you can get involved, whether it’s giving blood, making a financial donation, volunteering or learning lifesaving skills.
Schedule your blood, platelet or AB Elite plasma donation today!
Confirm days and times and
learn more HERE or call 1-800-733-2767.
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Thursday, May 7, 2026
City Building
101 W Eldora Ave
Weeping Water, NE 68463
11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Sunday, May 31, 2026
First Baptist Church
16220 US-34
Plattsmouth, NE 68048
10 AM - 2 PM
4107 Wavery Road
Murray, NE 68409
Just by adding a few of the items listed below to your shopping list and picking them up, you'll be helping someone in a big way. Keep in mind that some of the children are very young and are possibly 'preparing' their own meals, so easy-to-open containers are a good option for little hands.
Granola bars
Fruit snacks
Dry pasta
Spaghetti sauce
Dry soup mixes
Canned meat (chicken, tuna)
Boxed prepared meal kits (Hamburger Helper, Rice-a-Roni)
Peanut butter
Jelly
Canned fruit and vegetables
This week our Student of the Week Winner is Ella Mixan. She is a freshman at Louisville High School. Her activities include volleyball, One Act, and soccer. Her parents are Tony and Brooke Mixan.
She was nominated for these reasons:
She is always very respectful, kind, and a pleasure to be around.
She has impressed her coaches with her hard work, coachability, and willingness to try new things.
She is a leader in the classroom and showcases all the qualities of what it means to be a Lion.
She is welcoming and a great young person that we are proud to have as part of our school.
BEAVER LAKE GARAGE SALES, MAY 29 & 30
Please contact Linda Powers @ 402-214-6712 for your early donations. We cannot accept clothing, shoes, large furniture or large appliances.
Thank you!
WEEPING WATER COMMUNITY CENTER
101 E. ELDORA
ENTER at LOWER LEVEL on the SOUTH SIDE of the BUILDING.
ALL AGES are WELCOME!
EACH MEAL is only $6 and SERVED on MON-WED-FRIDAYS at NOON.
PLEASE CALL by 10 AM the SAME DAY as the DINNER YOU WISH to ATTEND.
The Elmwood Community Center Seeks Help
The Elmwood Community Center is more than just a building—it’s the heart of our town! From serving home-cooked meals to hosting reunions and providing a space for neighbors to connect, it’s a vital lifeline for Elmwood and Eagle.
While we’ve recently updated the kitchen and flooring, our next big goal is replacing our drafty windows and front door to keep the cold out.
We’re halfway there!
The Elmwood Community Center Board has secured $8,000 in grants, but we still need $8,500 to reach our $16,500 goal.
How you can help:
✅ Attend our upcoming fundraising events.
✅ Book the Center for your next party or meeting.
✅ Donate directly to help us close the gap!
Every bit helps keep our Center warm and welcoming. Contact Karla Snoozy at (402)994-2145 or (402)304-5766 if you have questions or want to help.
Thank you for your support! ❤️
211 Main Street
Louisville, NE
SHOW ADMISSION is $7 at the door; Kids 12 & under, FREE!
NEST SHOW TBA
UPCOMING:
JAM SESSIONS ARE FREE!
Second Sunday – Electric Jam Session (1:00 – 4:00 PM)
Last Sunday – Acoustic Only Jam Session (1:00 – 4:00 PM)
WE NEED BANDS!
Bring your instruments and enjoy an afternoon of great music and good company!
Click the theater flyer above or HERE to read the latest CCMT news.
Call 402-949-0668 with any questions.
Check out new website at www.happypawsplattsmouth.org
And download foster application!
PLATTSMOUTH AMATEUR RADIO CLUB (P.A.R.C.)
KB0SMX
P.A.R.C. members get together Tuesday evenings at Plattsmouth's Burger King at 6 pm.
Monthly meetings the last Saturday of most months at Mom's Cafe in Plattsmouth, 8 am.
(NO December monthly meeting.)
Click HERE or on the radio antenna logo above to read the latest newsletter and calendar.
For more info, contact Roger Behrns, rb55930@windstream.net or call 402-234-6775.
(LOUISVILLE CARE CENTER)
has new job positions!!!
We have OPEN Positions!
Click HERE to Apply Online
FT/PT/Casual CNA/CMA-Click Here to see Job Description
FT/PT/Casual LPN/RN-Click Here to see Job Description
FT/PT/Casual C.M.A or Medication Aid with C.N.A-Click Here to see Job Description
PT Transport Driver-Click Here to see Job Description
HERE IS WHAT MAKES US A GREAT PLACE TO WORK!
LCC offers free healthcare premiums for ALL our full time employees. Click Here to see Our Benefit Summary
Evening, night and weekend shift differentials.
Competative Wages! Inquire within for wage ranges.
Hire on bonus for C.N.A's, C.M.A's, RN's, LPN's and Personal Care Assistants. Click Here to see Hire on Bonus Policy
New Baylor Pay position for Certified Nursing Assistants.Click Here for Baylor Pay Policy
For Inquiries please call or email H.R. at ktrauernicht@lccne.com E.O.E
Spots are limited, so you’ll need to reserve a one-hour time slot in advance. Participants must be 19 or older, and registration requires a Facility Use Agreement, liability waiver, and ID copy.
Grab a friend, get active, and come enjoy some fun at the Springfield, NE Community Building!
For more information about child abuse and neglect reporting in Nebraska, visit the DHHS website at https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Child-Abuse.aspx.
Read more about it HERE.
(Credit the Nebraska Examiner, July 5, 2024)
In-person and phone meetings are held weekly,
Mondays and Wednesdays, at noon, and Fridays at 5pm.
Hosanna Lutheran Church
700 S 18th St
Plattsmouth, NE
Come in person or attend by phone, call ing 605-562-8401, and enter access code 1239518#.
Dear Readers,
We want to build an online history about Murray.
Please submit any information you might know about our town to start creating this project.
If you own a business, let us know when you started and any informaton about the building and/or business located there before yours. Do you know the little gray building, CJ's Hair Salon, on Main Street used to be an ice cream shop? Do you also know that the Murray Christian Church used to be located just east of the Murray Repair Shop? In the early 1900's Murray's Main Street was devastated by a fire. Have you heard any information about that time that's been passed down from your ancestors?
You can also send information about your house - when it was built and any background about it. Was it one of the first homes in town? Is it haunted? What do you know about it? There's a little house in town that used to be the old railroad depot! Do you know where it is now, or that the old Murray Elementary School's mascot name was the Mustangs?
Any information would be helpful. Please send photos, too, if available! Photos should contain people's names and location and any other helpful information. This should become a fun, educational and informative piece of history that will continue to grow, and one that we're all building together! Thanks for your help!
Email your information to:
Editor@MurrayNebraska.com
LET'S GO 'THRIFTING' in OUR CASS COUNTY THRIFT STORES!
Save Money! Recycle! Help Your Cass County Communities!
HAVE FUN!
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BE THE LIGHT THRIFT & GIFT
202 West H St
Weeping Water, NE
PROCEEDS TOWARD SUICIDE PREVENTION
OPEN:
WEDNESDAY 2 ~ 7
SATURDAY 9 ~ 4
*CLOSED ALL OF JANUARY & FEBRUARY
https://www.bethelight402.org/thrift-and-gift
https://www.facebook.com/Bethelightbethevoice/
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BITS & PIECES
158 N 4th
Elmwood, NE
SUNDAY: CLOSED
MONDAY: CLOSED
TUESDAY: 9 ~ 4
WEDNESDAY: 9 ~ Noon
THURSDAY: 9 ~ 4
FRIDAY: 9 ~ 5
SATURDAY: 9 ~ 4
402-994-5755
https://www.facebook.com/p/Bits-and-Pieces-and-More-Thrift-Store-100057192261002/
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HOPE'S CLOSET
109 Main St.
Louisville, NE 68037
SUNDAY: CLOSED
MONDAY: CLOSED
TUESDAY: Noon ~ 4
WEDNESDAY: Noon ~ 4
THURSDAY: 10 ~ 4
FRIDAY: 10 ~ 4
SATURDAY: 10 ~ 4
402) 234-1444
https://www.facebook.com/hopesclosetlouisville/
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UNDER HIS WINGS
511 Main St.
Plattsmouth, NE
SUNDAY: CLOSED
MONDAY: CLOSED
TUESDAY: 10 ~ 5
WEDNESDAY: 10 ~ 5
THURSDAY: 10 ~ 5
FRIDAY: 10 ~ 5
SATURDAY: 10 ~ 2
(402) 802-7115
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054505718837
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MY NEIGHBOR'S CLOSET
(South end of parking lot at Church of the Holy Spirit)
500 S 18th St.
Plattsmouth, NE
SUNDAY: CLOSED
MONDAY: CLOSED
TUESDAY: CLOSED
WEDNESDAY: CLOSED
*THURSDAY: 10 ~ 2
*FRIDAY: 10 ~ 2
*SATURDAY: 10 ~ 2
*No air conditioning, so we'll be open if not too hot!
402-296-3139
https://holyspiritplattsmouth.com/my-neighbors-closet/
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FOR the LOVE of JUNK
317 4th St
Murdock, NE 68407
OPEN: Usually Saturdays, 9 am ~ 4 pm, or by appointment only
402-297-1360
Elmwood Library Hours
Monday: 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Tuesday: 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
We welcome all who love to read, whether you're from Elmwood, Murdock, or beyond!
Come join us!
Easy Library Links
Online Card Catalog https://elmwoodpubliclibrary.follettdestiny.com/
DO YOU KNOW...
The Newsletter you're reading now is only one of several weekly online Cass County Newsletters? Here are some others you might be interested in subscribing to:
www.AlvoNebraska.com
www.CedarCreekNebraska.com
www.EagleNebraska.com
www.ElmwoodNebraska.com
www.GreenwoodNebraska.com
www.LouisvilleNebraska.com
www.NehawkaNebraska.com
www.ManleyNebraska.com
www.MurrayNebraska.com
www.MurdockNebraska.com
www.PlattsmouthNebraska.com
www.SpringfieldNebraska.com
www.UnionNebraska.com
www.UnadillaNebraska.com
www.WeepingWaterNebraska.com
Community Newsletters are FREE - you can subscribe for 1, or 2, or 3 ... or ALL of them!
Be informed, know what is going on in your community and your surrounding neighborhoods.
ATTENTION, VETERANS!
Do you need assistance? We're here to help!
Contact Cass County Veteran Service Officer
Email: ccvso@cassne.org
Admin Assistant: Jacie Victor
Email: ccvsoadmin@cassne.org
Call for appointment! 402-296-9368
ARE YOU 55+
and
LOOKING FOR PART-TIME WORK?
The following is an employment opportunity available to older adults in Cass County.
Experience Works is a national, non-profit organization funded by the US Dept of Labor to administer the Senior Community Service Employment Program, which assists people 55 and older in getting updated training to assist in returning to the workforce. This is a federally funded program and offers a no-cost employment service to older adults who qualify.
Once accepted into the program, individuals are placed in a training site in or near their community, where they gain on the job experience while working 20-21 hours/week at $8/hour.
We also help with skill assessments, computer training, resumes, cover letters, job search, etc.
The goal is that through the training and job search assistance we gain help older adults gain good jobs in or around their communities.
Stephanie MahonyEmployment and Training CoordinatorExperience Works, Inc.
1111 "O" Street Ste 205
American Job CenterLincoln, NE 68508
Phone: 402-441-1654Fax: 402-441-6038
stephanie_mahony@experienceworks.org<;/a>
Nebraska Toll-free Number: 1-877-314-7526
https://www.keepcasscountybeautiful.com/index.php
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR NEWS TO THIS NEWSLETTER...
Below is a list of categories that we are happy to post, (at NO COST to you!), in the weekly Murray online newsletter:
Weddings
Engagements
Anniversary
Births
Letters to the Editor
Birthday Greeting
Upcoming Events
Cards of Thanks
Lost and Found
Obituaries
Recipes
Photos
and So Much More!
That's right! These are all items that can appear FREE of CHARGE in each Wednesday's Murray Newsletter and/or Calendar! All YOU have to do is send the information to us - it's that simple!
DEADLINE for submissions to each week's Wednesday Newsletter is NOON on the preceding MONDAY.
There are 3 ways you can submit your articles:
1) You may call your information to 402-235-2926 and leave a voice mail with your name and phone number.
2) Email your story with your name, contact info and story, in plain text to:
Send photos in .jpg or png format, no larger than 595 pixels wide or photos and fliers in a .pdf, to the e-address above with your story in plain text.
3) Send items via the U.S. postal service to:
Be sure to allow enough time to be received by Monday! Also, when mailing items you'd like to get back, please enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Remember to include 'who, what, when, where and why', along with any other helpful details, such as a contact person and phone.
Again, you must have your name and contact information included with the information.
Thanks for helping to keep YOUR Murray Newsletter fresh and up-to-date!
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SUBSCRIBE to the MURRAY NEWSLETTER
It's easy and FREE!
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If you have any trouble adding your e-address, please send a note to our website owners at John@wirebuilt.com or Irina@wirebuilt.com and they'll get it added. (They're the tech gurus here.)
Thanks for reading!
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