Where are they now?

I went back and revisited some of the folks and places I did stories on in the past and wanted to give some updates:

Squire Wards Public House

Gregg Nelson and wife, Ramona, were forced to close this very popular Seward, Nebraska restaurant. They had always rented the space, and did not own the building - so when new owners purchased the property they were unwilling to work with Gregg and raised the rent to a point that could not be sustained in a small town. Heartbroken, he closed the bar and restaurant after four and half years. Always being the most positive person, he realized that something good usually comes out of something bad. He said he, "has special connections to all of his customers who ended up being great friends". He will be forever grateful for those incredible relationships. For now, he and Ramona are spending time with their grandchildren and are adjusting to a much slower pace. Gregg is uncertain if he will reopen in another location, but personally my money is on him. I have met some of the most amazing people writing my stories and I would put Gregg at the top of my list. He is one of the kindest and most generous people and I have no doubt he will land on his feet! Stay tuned for his next chapter.

Grace Gate Farm

Bryan and Kirstie Madsen have come a long way in their first year of establishing Grace Gate Farm. They are, "dedicated to helping our nation's veterans and community find healing, restoration, and connection through animal-assisted activities, farming, and a hands-on experience". Through constant prayer and meditations, they have walked the path that they were chosen for. The mission is to create a space where veterans and others searching for purpose can find peace, connection, and renewal through interactions at their therapy farm. One of the best things to happen was their recent approval of their 501(c)(3) status, so all donations to the farm will now be tax deductible, and they can now apply for grants and other financial assistance. One of their biggest upcoming projects is to build a wheelchair-accessible Victory garden. They are envisioning this as a living classroom where people can learn biblical truths through hands-on experiences with creation. Bryan and Kirstie have also spent time networking with other veteran groups, learning about needs, planting seeds, and making meaningful connections. Look for their booth at several veteran outreach events in the upcoming months. The official website is now up and it is full of resources about how you can participate and volunteer for their various projects. Check it out at www.gracegatefarm.org. I am looking forward to watching them continue to walk through this year of restoration and faith and see how God will work in them for this wonderful dream.

Cattlemen's Ball of Nebraska, Inc.

This year's Cattlemen's Ball will be held on June 5th and 6th in Cozad, Nebraska. It will be approximately 10 miles north of town in a massive pasture that will overlook the scenic views of the Platte Valley. Hosted by Howard and Linda Benjamin and families, and the Lewis and Bobbie Jo Messersmith family. Their mission, "is a charity event that raises money for cancer research with 90% of the proceeds benefiting the Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center. The other 10% is donated back to the local sponsoring communities' health and wellness programs." Several events are planned which include a live and a silent auction, golf tournament, 5k run, fashion show, and a vendor tent which showcases local artists. The entertainment this year will be country singers Gunnar Latham on Friday night and Aaron Watson on Saturday night. It should be a boot-scooting good time. I would be remiss if I didn't mention the food. Each meal during the Ball is carefully taste-tested and always has a beef entree which helps to promote Nebraska's largest industry. They serve up to 4,500 people during this event so it takes a plethora of volunteers who are in charge of many different subcommittees. Tickets will be available for sale soon so check out their website where you can also volunteer and find additional information. It is www.cattlemensball.com. I promise there is something for everyone to enjoy at this incredible event.

Stay tuned for more updates in the coming weeks.

Remember to be grateful.........

Until we talk again.............