She married William “Bill” Woods, Sr. on November 25, 1966 at Wise, VA. He passed away May 28, 2024.

Sheala was raised in Greenup, KY. When married the coupled lived in various places due to her husband’s military service. She was a homemaker most of her life. The couple first moved to Falls City in 1990 and then to Florida in 1996 and back to Falls City in 2011, where she has lived since. She enjoyed playing bingo at the casino, playing cards with friends, spending time with her family and volunteering at church. She was a member of Valley Avenue Baptist Church.

Sheala is survived by her children, William “Woody” Woods, Jr. and his wife Tina of Escondido, CA, Rana Frenzel and her husband Jeff of Falls City, Delp and her significant other Michael “Rose” Turner of Falls City, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers and a sister and a grandchild, Kendell Delp.

Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Valley Avenue Baptist Church with Pastor Chad Berry officiating. Inurnment will be in Steele Cemetery.

Friends may sign the guest registry during regular business hours at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

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A novel got its author run out of Lincoln. Nearly a century later, the city is giving the story a second chance.

A new theatrical adaptation of Mari Sandoz’s “Capital City” is set to premiere at the Lied Center in Lincoln.

By Tynan Stewart, Flatwater Free Press

It was the summer of 1940, and Mari Sandoz was done with Lincoln. 

The Nebraska-born author, who had lived in the capital off and on since 1919, denied her upcoming move to Denver meant she was “running away,” telling the Omaha World-Herald she was relocating to research her next book. But Sandoz also admitted that, yes, she had been getting angry phone calls for months. She had been hissed at and spit on in public. Someone had even slipped a threatening note under her door. She later described the contents to a reporter: “‘Better lay low. You’re the next candidate for a concentration camp.’”

The harassment started shortly after the publication of Sandoz’s second novel, “Capital City,” in 1939. The book, which satirized the politics and society of a fictional Midwestern college town that closely resembled Lincoln, sold poorly but aroused the ire of her neighbors with its scathing depiction of a citizenry sympathetic to fascist movements in Europe.

“Sandoz was essentially run out of town for writing this book,” said Karim Muasher, an actor and theater director.

While Sandoz never moved back to Lincoln, her novel will soon have a second shot in the Star City thanks to Muasher and his co-artistic director, Carrie Brown. Their New York-based theater company, Animal Engine, is producing a stage adaptation of “Capital City” that will premiere at the Lied Center on April 9. Muasher and Brown, along with their occasional collaborator Jay Dunn, wrote the script, designed the set and will also star in the production.

The Lied approached Animal Engine a few years ago to commission a Nebraska-focused work. Sandoz, as a historically significant Nebraska author, was a clear choice, and eventually they settled on “Capital City.”

“We were just completely taken by how relevant and modern the book felt,” Muasher said. “It really felt like it was written in the current day.”

After premiering in Lincoln, Animal Engine’s production of “Capital City” will also visit Fremont, Falls City and Auburn as part of the Lied Center’s Arts Across Nebraska program, which aims to increase access to the performing arts in the state’s rural areas. The center is also working with the Lancaster County Youth Services Center to stream a performance for incarcerated kids and to organize an in-person Q&A with the artists.

INFO BOX: Upcoming performances

April 9-12 – Lied Center, Lincoln

April 14 – Fremont Opera House, Fremont

April 16 – Prichard Auditorium, Falls City; 7:00 PM

April 17 – Auburn Public Schools Central Office Auditorium, Auburn

More information at www.liedcenter.org/education/arts-across-nebraska

Jane Schiermeyer Hansen, director of education and community engagement at the Lied Center, said the performing arts center tries to prioritize works with a connection to Nebraska whenever it can.

“I think Nebraskans are really interested in Nebraska stories,” she said.

Is ‘Capital City’ really about Lincoln?

Technically, the novel that ruined Sandoz’s reputation in Lincoln isn’t set in Lincoln — or even Nebraska, for that matter.

The story actually takes place in Franklin, a fictional city in the imaginary state of Kanewa, a portmanteau of Kansas-Nebraska-Iowa. Sandoz, who was known for conducting intensive research for her books, studied multiple state capitals in the Midwest, including Des Moines, Topeka and Jefferson City. Her fictional capital also has aspects seemingly borrowed from Omaha, such as an annual coronation of upper-class socialites as “the emperor and empress of the land of Kanewa” — possibly modeled on a similar ceremony organized by the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben.

“She had no one capital city in mind, but wanted to reveal what she saw as a trend in the capital cities of the Middle West, towns that produced little, that had little commerce, but lived off the state capitol and the adjacent university — parasites, just as Washington, D.C., seemed to her the archparasite,” wrote Helen Winter Stauffer, a longtime University of Nebraska at Kearney professor, in her biography of Sandoz, “Mari Sandoz: Story Catcher of the Plains.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msNHusaDuAE 

Despite Sandoz’s repeated assertions that “Capital City” was allegorical and not modeled on any single location, some Lincolnites didn’t believe her. A 1939 review in the Nebraska State Journal observed that the book contained “many men and women who will be recognized, rightly or wrongly, by many readers.” It also didn’t help that Sandoz borrowed one of Lincoln’s most distinctive landmarks — a capitol building with a “high white tower.”

Brown, who grew up in Lincoln and studied theater at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said she immediately recognized the setting.

“When I read it, there was, like, no doubt in my mind,” Brown said. “This is not an amalgamation. This is just Lincoln. There’s nothing about the city that isn’t Lincoln.”

‘Rhyming with the present day’

Although the backlash to “Capital City” was ugly and excessive, it’s not hard to see why some residents resented Sandoz. It wasn’t just the novel. As she was planning her move to Denver, Sandoz told a reporter: “I don’t like Lincoln, and that is no secret. But I didn’t like it 20 years ago.”

Sandoz was also an unapologetic liberal, sympathetic to the labor movement and the poor, while Lincoln was at the time decidedly conservative. (Lancaster was one of only two counties in Nebraska that voted for Republican Herbert Hoover in the 1932 presidential election.) “Capital City” is a harsh portrayal of both local and state politics and ends with the election of a demagogic far-right governor who declares martial law and deploys the National Guard, though most of the populace is too preoccupied with a college football game to notice or care.

Lincoln’s political leanings have shifted in the decades since, if not its obsession with football. But many of the novel’s themes still feel timely.

“We were really excited by the historical time period and by the parallels that we can find between the late ‘30s and now,” Muasher said. “They say that history doesn’t repeat itself, but it rhymes, and this book is definitely rhyming with the present day.”

Muasher said the story’s association with Lincoln is ultimately a positive thing for local audiences, and he hopes people who have read “Capital City” will come out to see the play.

“What you’re gonna see on stage is actually inspired in part by the place that you live in,” Muasher said. “The fact that it’s a historical piece I think is gonna dull some of the hurt feelings.”

A return to the Lied Center

This won’t be Animal Engine’s first time performing in Lincoln.

In 2023, the theater company brought its original play “Henrietta Solway,” which is based on the fiction of Willa Cather, to the Lied Center, kicking off the relationship that would lead to their current collaboration. Before that, Muasher and Brown visited the city for a high school tour with their show “Petunia and Chicken,” another adaptation of Cather’s work.

“I got to go back to Northeast (High School) and perform for my drama teacher, which was really cool,” Brown said.

Performing at the Lied Center is particularly special for Brown. Her family first moved to Lincoln in 1993 when she was 10, and she remembers the performing arts center as a formative part of her childhood. At the time, it was still relatively new, having opened in 1990.

“We had some family friends that lived in Lincoln, and the Lied Center was one of the first places that they pointed out to us,” she said. “In some ways, performing at the Lied Center is just as cool for me as opening up on Broadway.”

Last summer, Animal Engine visited Lincoln for a few weeks to work on the production of “Capital City,” and Brown found herself pointing out familiar places to Muasher and Dunn.

“If I hadn’t grown up in Lincoln, I don’t think I would have seen so much in the book as I did,” Brown said.

The Flatwater Free Press is Nebraska’s first independent, nonprofit newsroom focused on investigations and feature stories that matter.

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He owned and operated Hell Creek Cabins at Wilson Lake. In his spare time, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Rex spent his retirement collecting antique toys. 

Rex is survived by his daughters, Jenny (David) Helmick of Salem, NE, Melody Haupt, Broken Bow, NE; sons, Justin (Kristy) Martin of Holyrood, KS, John (Felicia) Martin, Salem, NE, Matt (Makooshla) Usher, Holyrood, KS; mother, Sherryn Rist, Humbolt, NE; mother-in-law, Norma Alford, Fayetteville, AR; brother, Mark (Connie) Usher of Auburn, NE; sisters, Ronda (Justin) Vaughan of Bennet, NE, Rebecca (Adam) Stanley of Stella, NE; grandchildren, Dalton and Derek Helmick, Karlee and Gracie Haupt, Victoria Reyna and Chandler Martin, Addy, Auroara and Jonnie Martin, Matthew and Patrick Usher, Ronnie Rogers; many nieces and nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Brynn Martin, brother, Russell Usher, father, Gary Usher and wife, Kathy Usher. 

Funeral service will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 2 PM, at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Wilson. Burial will follow at Wilson City Cemetery. Dinner will follow at the American Legion in Dorrance. Visitation will be held Friday, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the funeral home in Wilson. 

Memorials are suggested to Ellsworth County Cancer Fund and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com  

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The training will be held at Nebraska ESU 4, 2301 Dahlke Ave, Auburn, NE 68305. 8:00am – 5:00 pm on April 14. 

7.8 hours of Continuing Education Contact Hours awarded by Iowa Western Community College, Iowa Board of Nursing Provider #6.

This interactive session will provide participants with essential knowledge and practical tools to better serve those who have served. Key topics include:

The No Wrong Door approach emphasizes that every point of contact—whether in healthcare, education, social services, or the broader community—plays a vital role in connecting veterans and their families to the help they need. Participants will leave better equipped to respond with confidence, compassion, and competence.

This training is ideal for professionals across sectors, as well as community members committed to supporting veterans.

Cost is $20.00, payable at the door. Please email Jill Kuzelka at jjstnc@diodecom.net to reserve your spot

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In 1957, Jerri was united in marriage to Bobby Garland and to this union five daughters were born. The couple lived in Oregon and Arizona, visiting Falls City in the summers. They founded a fishing lure business “Garland Lures”, making bass and crappie jigs. The couple would later divorce in 1979.  Jerri remarried Murphy McDonald and the couple moved back to Falls City where they bought the blue house next to the Water Tower.  They enjoyed attending auctions and renovating their house.  Jerri had prolific garage sales which turned into her owning a small antique shop.

Jerri is survived by her daughters: Dawn Smith of Falls City, Diana Meyers of Falls City, Danelle Brown and husband George of Falls City, Dorena Spitler and husband Mark of Peoria, AZ; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; her brother James Titus of Falls City, her sister Julie Houser and husband Randy of Florence, AZ; and many other relatives and friends.  

She is preceded in death by her parents, husbands Bobby Garland and Murphy McDonald, daughter Debra Blair, and sister-in-law Joyce Titus.

A Celebration of Jerri’s Life will be held by the family at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to the family’s choice with a later designation.

Condolences can be shared online at www.hallfuneral.net

Services entrusted to Hall Funeral Home-2403 Harlan ST-Falls City, NE 68355 (402) 245-3131

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Following his military service, he followed his entrepreneurial spirit that led him down many paths. From owning a hotel to serving as President of Sales at Cedar Hollow Foods, he approached each role with determination and vision. In later years, he dedicated his days to creating Cedar Hollow Alpaca Farm alongside his wife, Nancy, and Cedar Hollow Farm & Building – ventures that reflected both his work ethic and his love for building something lasting. He also served as Chaplain of the Homer White American Legion Post 66 and was a member of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard. He was known for his humor and generosity, and was a light to all he met. 

He is survived by his wife; Nancy Sines, children; Daniel (Deb) Sines and Amy (Rick) May, grandchildren; Dutch Sines, Sarah May, Katlyn Howard, Lauren Paine, Jackson May, great grandchildren; Henry and Harper Paine, and his beloved dog, Sadie. 

He was preceded in death by his brother, Leonard Sines and parents.

Family will meet with friends from 10-11 a.m. Thursday, April 9th, Bethany United Church of Christ, Hiawatha, followed by a Celebration of Bob’s life at 11 a.m.

Memorial contributions suggested to Bob Sines Memorial Fund sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

He will be remembered for his service to his country and all the love he gave to those around him. May we honor his legacy by carrying forward the values he lived by.

Friends may sign register book a funeral home during office hours starting Monday.

www,chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

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Betty and Cliff were married 64 years. They farmed throughout their marriage; the first five years on a farm south of Verdon, and the remainder on the farm south of Pawnee City. They had two sons, Lawrence (Larry) and Kevin Spitser.  After her marriage, Betty worked for a short time at the Cambell Soup Company and later for many years at the Pawnee County Memorial Hospital.

Betty was active in The First Christian Church of Pawnee City, was an accomplished quilter, an ardent reader, and an avid fan of Nebraska’s Women’s College Volleyball team. Most of all, she cherished her time with family and friends.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, husband Clifford, son Kevin, and siblings Roland, Raymond, Mary, George, Dean, and Bill.

Betty is survived by one brother, Charles McKinsey, sisters-in-law, Marilyn McKinsey and Pearl Schulenberg, one son, Lawrence (Cathi) Spitser, four grandchildren: Kirsten (Jeff) Swanson, Tracy (Tony) Lollmann, Azure Edwards, and Scott (Sarah) Spitser, as well as nine great grandchildren, one great-great grandson, several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the First Christian/United Presbyterian Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 3, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m.

Interment will be in the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

The family is deeply grateful for the exceptional care provided to Betty by Hospice. As a way to honor her memory, consider donating to a local Hospice Care Center or to the Pawnee City Library.

Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.

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Rather than scale back, The Falls City Chamber & Main Street chose to shift focus and resources towards a new community celebration. Organizers are excited to announce a brand-new 4th of July Celebration in partnership with the Falls City Area Jaycees and American Legion Post 102, commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026. This once-in-a-generation milestone provides the perfect opportunity for Falls City to come together in a meaningful and memorable way.

The main event will take place at the Jaycees Community Field south of Falls City and will feature Extreme Bull Riding presented by Double S Bull Company, followed by live music and a community fireworks display presented by the American Legion. Up to 36 bull riders are expected to compete for prize money, bringing high-energy action to the celebration. Family-friendly activities will also be part of the event, including mutton bustin’ and other interactive opportunities designed to engage spectators of all ages.

Organizers are committed to making the celebration a true community-wide event and are encouraging local organizations, businesses, and groups to join in by hosting activities, promotions, or special events of their own throughout the day. New ideas and partnerships are welcome, and those interested in participating are encouraged to contact Amber at the Falls City Chamber & Main Street office at 402-245-4228 to discuss opportunities.

Sponsorship opportunities will be available for the event, and the Chamber & Main Street is also accepting private donations to help support the community fireworks display. Tax-deductible donations may be mailed to the Falls City Chamber & Main Street, 1705 Stone Street, Falls City, NE, with checks payable to the Falls City Chamber.

Additional details about the 4th of July Celebration will be announced in the coming weeks as planning continues for what promises to be an unforgettable way to honor America’s 250th birthday in Falls City.

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Harold passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation Nursing Home in Falls City having reached the earthly age of ninety-years, three months, and twenty-three days.  He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Doris (Arthur) Simpson, niece Debra Hoggat, and nephew Terry Bryan.

Harold is survived by his niece Rene Chandler of Bee, NE; 8 great-nieces and nephews, numerous great-great-nieces and nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Steele Cemetery in Falls City with Pastor Joanne Kathol officiating.  Full military honors will be conducted by the Nebraska Army Honor Guard and Falls City American Legion Honor Guard.

Visitation will be held from noon-8 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Hall Funeral Home, 2403 Harlan Street in Falls City.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Falls City Public High School Shop Class.

Condolences can be shared online at www.hallfuneral.net. Services entrusted to Hall Funeral Home-2403 Harlan ST-Falls City, NE 68355 (402) 245-3131

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Jason was raised at Shubert and later moved to Cozad, NE where he graduated Cozad High School in 1991. Following graduation he worked various factory jobs. He became involved with Wendy in April of 2009 and they formed a loving partnership for the last 17 years. In September of 2025 he became employed by Alphia in Pawnee City working in the Maintenance Department. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Jason is survived by his wife, Wendy Last of Shubert, children, Breana Last and her partner Blake Amador of Parker, CO, Logan Last of Lexington, NE, brother, Rob Last and his wife Karen of Sandia Park, NM, sisters, Jackie Last House and her husband John of Fairview, KS, Jodi Hild and her husband Adam of Cozad, NE, grandchildren, Jax-Andrue, Julian Joel and Blake, Jr. Amador, Laney and Lenox O’Grady, Avery and Etta Last, nieces and nephew, Sasha Hatfield, Adam and Aliesha Walker, great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Taylor Last and a granddaughter, Charlie in infancy.

Jason has been cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2026 at the Shubert Hall in Shubert, NE from noon until 2:00 PM.

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