Friend, Nebraska

History:

Friend was founded in 1871, when the railroad reached this area. It has been a thriving community and still is agriculture-based. Economic times have forced the community to become more broad-based with manufacturing and several other industries. Friend is also known for the nation's smallest police station.

 

  Government:

A mayor and four city council members are elected on a nonpartisan ballot.

 

  Education:

Friend Public School is a K-12 District.

 

  Churches:

United Methodist, United Church of Christ, St. Joseph's Catholic, Berean, Gospel Tabernacle and the Friend Mennonite Mission can all be found in Friend.

 

  Transportation:

Friend is served by Burlington Northern Railroad, two truck lines, Highway 6 and an access road to Interstate 80.

 

  Communications:

Friend has a weekly newspaper, The Friend Sentinel, cable television and telephone service is provided by Aliant Communications.

 

  Agriculture:

Two-thirds of the surrounding area is irrigated. Principal crops include corn, milo, soybeans and wheat. There are several large livestock facilities and a veterinarian to serve the area.

 

  Medical:

The Friend Medical Center, Warren Memorial Hospital and the Friend Manor serve the area with one doctor. There are two dentists and an optometrist is in town once a week.

 

  Industrial Trading:

Friend has four manufacturing firms and over 70 retail and service establishments.

 

  Recreation:

Friend has a bowling alley, municipal pool and Burley Park, which has a clubhouse that is available to rent for gatherings. The park includes a sand volleyball court, baseball field and a tennis court. Friend Recreation Association has a nine hole golf course and also serves meals and refreshments and is convenient for meetings, parties and gatherings.

 

  Utilities:

Electrical power is purchased from Nebraska Public Power and is distributed by the city which has a load management system. Natural gas is distributed by Peoples Natural Gas. Municipal water system is supplied by three wells. Telephone service is provided by Aliant Communications.
 
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