As is the case with all moving surface water systems in Nebraska (rivers, creeks, streams, and canals), groundwater also moves from one direction to another. In Nebraska, all of our surface water moves in a general manner from west/northwest to east/southeast. Simple geology has dictated this for millions of years. As most people know, the highest elevation(s) in Nebraska are in the west/northwest corner of the state. On the other hand, the lowest elevation(s) in Nebraska are in the east/southeast corner of the state. As a result, all of the state's rivers, creeks, streams, and canals essentially flow 'downhill' from highest (west/northwest) to lowest (east/southeast).

Given this natural flow of drainage in Nebraska, from west/northwest to east/southeast, subsequently our major lakes and reservoirs are no different. Davis Creek Reservoir is no exception to the rule. The lake primarily sits in a west/northwest to east/southeast direction. Since groundwater moves just like surface water - from west/northwest to east/southeast - it only makes sense that most of the seepage leaving Davis Creek will move in an east/southeast direction.

The town of North Loup is approximately 5.5 miles directly north of Davis Creek. The town of Scotia is approximately 5 miles northeast of the reservoir. Therefore, seepage leaving Davis Creek in an east/southeast manner will, in no way, result in flooded basements in either of these two towns.

When the North Loup irrigation project (Calamus/Davis Creek) was completed in 1996, total costs had exceeded $330 million. Given that huge sum of taxpayer dollars, there's really no reason Davis Creek shouldn't be maximized for all respective purposes (irrigation, flood control, recreation, fish/wildlife benefits). For this to occur, the lake really does need to be managed with higher water levels.

Matt Sadler

Broken Bow

Performers' gave tribute to troops

I would like to take this opportunity to express a public, and very heart-felt thank you to both Bennett Chamness, Texas T-Bone, and KRGI - Country 96 for presenting the Aaron Tippin/Ricochet concert as a tribute to our men and women who have served, and are serving, in the armed forces. While I have never been a devoted fan of country-western music, the concert could make me change my mind. When my husband heard that KRGI was making free tickets available to veterans and asked if I would like to go, I thought, 'Why not? It's something to do to pass a Saturday night.' I had so under estimated how profound this concert would be. As I watched these performers strut their stuff across the stage, I was startled to realize that even though they are, indeed performers, how in touch they were with the audience of a relatively small town in Central Nebraska, and how they bonded almost immediately. Not only are both groups renown in the country music industry, but each was humble in their emotional tribute that was paid to our troops, culminating with the bike that Mr. Tippin assembled on stage and donated to the Marine's Toys for Tots program as is his custom.

Bennett Chamness and Texas T-Bone have always been strong supporters of our military, as well as Grand Island in general, and this is one of the reasons that we frequent his establishment. He represents more than just another restaurant; he is part of our community. Now we have another reason to patronize his establishment. Thanks so very much for all you do, Bennett and Country96, and especially for making this entertainment possible.

Elaine D. Dooley

3060 Roselawn Drive