They have two offices to better serve their future and present customers. The Clay Center office is found at 208 West Fairfield.

Lori Veik is the first employee you will see or talk to when contacting the office. She brings 20 plus years of knowledge and quality experience to the team as office manager. Veik lives in Clay Center.

Dan Matthews has been a licensed insurance agent since 2019. He is no stranger to Clay County, as he was previously an area claims adjuster. Dan moved from Fullerton to Clay Center.

Andrew Malone has been sharing his insurance experience for about four years as a licensed agent. Andrew likes the hands-on experience with the insurance career. He has opportunity to be able to take time to talk to clients to understand their needs. Andrew and his family live in Clay Center.

L Wayne Johnson has stepped down from his core position at the agency. He does stay connected with the office staff, as a lot of the customers are two or three generations. This keeps within continuity within the office setting to help present and future customers with the transition of fresh faces.

The Hastings office found at 1021 West 2nd Street., Peyton Traudt started working as office manager and a licensed agent in January 2026. She graduated from Bellevue University. She brings energy and excitement to sharing insurance with clients. Peyton is also from Clay Center.

It takes special training courses in the State of Nebraska to become a licensed insurance agent. It does not stop there for the agents; licenses require renewel every two years along with continuing education. The insurance world changes constantly just as the daily needs of people’s lives change.

For the clients who want to manage their policies and claims, an app is available for them to conduct their business. The best way to renew insurance policies is setting up an in-person appointment to review and answer policy questions that may arise.

Finding the correct type for each client’s situation is imperative to keep in mind when buying insurance, the lowest cost level is not always the best coverage for the needs.

Looking at all aspects before making a final decision is what Malone and Matthews strongly suggest. For a young person or new business owner, just starting out, one of the most important coverages suggested by Malone is “the necessity to protect yourself would be starting with liability.”

One of the biggest concerns Malone and Matthews have met through the years is the lowest cost level is not always the best coverage for the needs of the customer. Reviewing all aspects before making a final decision helps figure out what is good for the client.

The staff feels that developing a relationship with clients is important. Educating clients about insurance coverage needs, reviewing coverages regularly and what to do when filing a claim. Their customers are not just customers; they become family as their insurance needs evolve.

“We believe being a local agency means more than selling insurance. It means being involved and supporting the community that supports us,” according to Malone.

National Poppy Day will be observed Friday, May 22, with Auxiliary members distributing poppies in Sutton throughout the day. This year, a group of local youth volunteers will travel from business to business carrying poppies and collecting donations in support of veteran programs and local Auxiliary projects. The Auxiliary will also host a bake sale beginning at 8:30 a.m. on May 22 at Brown’s Grocery in Sutton. Organizers say they hope the combination of poppy donations, bake sale purchases, and community support will help raise significant funds for veterans and related programs.

For many Americans, the red poppy is one of the most recognizable symbols connected to Memorial Day. The tradition dates back more than a century to World War I, when bright red poppies were seen growing across the battlefields of Europe after devastating fighting had torn through the countryside. The flower later became closely tied to the famous poem In Flanders Fields, written by Lieutenant Colonel John Mc-Crae after the loss of a friend during the war.

Over time, the poppy became an international symbol of remembrance for military members who lost their lives in service to their country. Today, wearing a poppy serves as a quiet but visible reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of servicemen and women. It is also meant to honor not only those who died in combat, but the families and communities forever changed by war.

Members of the Auxiliary say the poppy is also a reminder that supporting veterans should not happen only on Memorial Day, but throughout the entire year.

Funds raised through poppy donations help support a wide range of veteran programs and community This year, Sutton’s American Legion Auxiliary hopes to direct funds toward Honor Flight trips for veterans. Honor Flights provide veterans the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials built in recognition of their military service and sacrifices. The trips are designed to honor veterans, many of whom never previously had the opportunity to see the monuments dedicated to their service.

Auxiliary members say the organization’s work extends far beyond a single day each May.

In addition to supporting veterans and military families, Unit #61 helps sponsor County Government Day, trick-or-treat activities for Sutton Elementary students and the Sutton Community Home, the Americanism Essay Contest, Poppy Poster Contest, Girls State, and activities connected to local Veterans Day and Memorial Day programs.

This year, the Auxiliary received 97 essays for its Americanism Essay Contest, highlighting strong participation from local students. Community members may also notice student artwork displayed in business windows around Sutton as part of the Poppy Poster Contest, another tradition designed to help younger generations learn the meaning behind Memorial Day and military sacrifice.

The Auxiliary also recently donated copies of Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and The Poppy Lady to local schools and the Sutton Library, helping share the history and meaning behind military remembrance traditions with area students and families.

Members also help support Wreaths Across America efforts in the area. More than 400 veterans are buried in Sutton Memorial Cemetery, the Catholic cemetery, and Saronville cemetery, and volunteers continue working to help secure funding and support to honor those veterans each year with wreath placements.

For many members, preserving those traditions is an important way of ensuring the sacrifices of veterans are never forgotten.

Community members are encouraged to stop and visit with Auxiliary members on May 22, support the youth volunteers, pick up a poppy, and learn more about the organization’s local efforts.

A Memorial Day Service will also be held Monday, May 25, at 10:30 a.m. at the Sutton Public School Theater. The service is open to the public.

Weather conditions led to what many could call dismal to host a district golf tournament, but Monday, May 18, temperatures in the 40’s and 50’s throughout the C-4 District golf tournament, held at the Southern Hills Golf Course southwest of Hastings, along with rain and misty conditions, the field of 16 teams battled through the tough conditions, with Sutton and Sandy Creek amongst the field of teams.

When the tournament ended, Sutton freshman Myles Smith proved to be the lone state qualifier for the two county teams, finishing fourth overall, out of 12 individual qualifiers and three team qualifiers.

Smith opened the soggy day with a front nine 40, but battled back to shave off four strokes on the back nine, shooting a 36 to finish the day with an 18-hole 76, placing him fourth overall with his four-over par effort.

Adams Central’s Braeden Dyer claimed individual gold with a one-over, 73. St. Paul’s Jackson Wegner also shot a 73 to finish second, while Ord’s Caden Lytle placed third, just ahead of Smith with a twoover par, 74.

The Mustangs placed 11th a a team, combining to shoot a 370. Sandy Creek claimed the ninth-place spot as a team, shooting a combined 354.

Winning the top three spots, and automatic team qualifying spots in the C-4 tournament was Adams Central with a strong edge over St. Paul, as the Patriots outshot the Wildcats 305-323, while Kearney Catholic claimed the final team spot with a 327.

Sutton’s play was rounded out by freshman Harrison Schurman, who carded a 94, senior Carson Cline shot a 96, while Eduardo Valenzuela ended the day with a 104, and Tristan Griess, with a 110.

For the Cougars, who fell short of having a qualifier, Evan Swartzendruber shot an 82 to finish just two strokes shy of advancing to the state tournament. Keaton Corman and Gavin Fisher both fired scores of 85, while John Skalka shot a 102, and Kamerin Sealey finished with a 103.

Smith will take his game to Grand Island’s Indianhead Golf Course next week for the Class C state tournament, set to be played on Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28.

Team Scores: Adams Central 305, St. Paul 323, Kearney Catholic 327, Superior 334, Grand Island Central Catholic 338, Doniphan-Trumbull 349, Ord 349, Minden 352, Sandy Creek 354, Central City 362, Sutton 370, H&H 383, Arcadia/ Loup City 421, Wood River 437, Gibbon 465, Centura 481.

Kinney was the first to earn a trip to Omaha, winning the 400-meter dash with a time of 60.11 seconds, edging out Wilber-Clatonia’s Gabrielle Vican, who finished second with a time of 60.37 seconds.

Teammate White crossed the finish line in third place with her time of 62.47 seconds.

Sutton claimed gold in the 4x400-meter relay by just over three seconds, finishing the four-lap relay with a winning time of four minutes, 08.76 seconds. Wilber- Clatonia placed second with a time of 4:11.21.

In the final team standings, the Fillies were seventh overall, collecting 46 team points. Tri County outscored Thayer Central by 15 points to win the team title with 96 points, while Thayer Central tallied 81 points.

Junior Katie Baldwin narrowly missed a trip to Omaha in the shot put, missing the big show by an inch and a half with a 33’ 2.5” throw. Kate Breutkruetz of Centennial won with a 36’ 4” throw, while Norah Morrissey of Tri County edged out Baldwin to place second and advance to Omaha with a 33’ 4” throw.

Senior Miranda Nuss finished fourth in the shot put with a 32’ 10.5” loft.

Nuss also placed fifth overall in the discus with a 104’ 9” throw. Tri County’s Brooke Morgan claimed the discus title with a 121’ 1” toss.

Senior Addison George and freshman America Hernandez tied for fifth in the high jump, as both cleared 4’5” in the event. Sandy Creek’s Caitlyn Biltoft won the event with a 4’11” jump.

Back on the track, Sutton’s 4x100-meter relay team, made up of Hernandez, Marah Kinney, Camden Mau, and Baldwin, finished sixth with a time of 55.49 seconds. Thayer Central gained the event title with a final time of 50.77 seconds.

In the two hurdle events, Mau placed sixth in the 100-meter hurdle race with a time of 17.01 seconds, with Wilber-Clatonia’s Lusdary Anguiano winning with her time of 15.95 seconds.

Trejo earned a sixth-place finish in the 300-meter hurdles with a time of 51.02 seconds, while Sandy Creek’s Carrigan Rempe claimed the win with her time of 47.18 seconds.

Team Scores: Tri County 96, Thayer Central 81, Sandy Creek 76, Wilber-Clatonia 58, Superior 52, Centennial 48, Sutton 46, Fillmore Central 29, H&H 22, EMF 17.

As a team, the Cougars finished fourth as a team, totalling 50 team points.

Tri County dominated the C-7 meet, outscoring second- place Wilber-Clatonia 133-84 for the team title.

Lorena-Parks let loose of a 162’ 2” throw that led the competition, until Thayer Central’s Cole Vonderstrasse unleashed a 175’ 5” throw in the final round of the discus to win.

Teammates of Lorena- Parks, Christian Shaw and Wes Biltoft also medaled with personal best throws, as Shaw finished third with a 158’ 11” throw, while Biltoft hit the 144’ 7” mark to finish fifth overall, as Sandy Creek gained 16 team points out of the discus. Shaw earned a place in the state meet field with Lorena-Parks as an additional qualifier for the Cougars.

The shot put was also strong for the Cougars, gaining another 12 team points in the event, led by Sam Watts’ third place throw of 46’ 3.” Cedric Oeltjen placed fourth with a 45’ 8.5” toss, while Shaw finished fifth with a 45’ 2.5” effort. Vorderstrasse claimed the win with a monster 58’ 7” throw.

Freshman Asher Eitzmann garnered third place in the high jump, clearing the bar with a 5’ 10” jump. Maddox Regier of H&H claimed the win with a 6-foot leap.

Junior Logan Tomky finished fifth in the long jump, leaping to a distance of 19-feet, which was a personal best effort for Tomky. Thayer Central’s Blake Gunn earned the win with a 21’ 8” leap.

On the track, two events medaled for the Cougars, the 4x100-meter relay team, made up of Kaeden Schmidt, Eitzmann, Ian Zikmund, and Ben Burger, finishing second behind Tri County with a time of 44.88 seconds. Tri County won with a time of 43.69 seconds.

Burger also claimed a third-place finish in the 400-meter dash with his time of 52.4 seconds, as Wilber- Clatonia’s Grayson Vican claimed the win with a time of 51.63 seconds.

Team Scores: Tri County 133, Wilber-Clatonia 84, Thayer Central 80, Sandy Creek 50, H&H 48, EMF 44, Superior 37, Sutton 31, Centennial 14, Fillmore Central 6.

• Nebraska net farm income is projected to increase 12% in 2026, reaching a record $9.96 billion.

• The projected increase is driven by higher government payments, continued strength in livestock markets and improved crop receipts.

• Government payments in Nebraska are projected to rise 71% to $2.97 billion, largely from commodity program payments and ad hoc assistance.

• Corn receipts are projected to increase 5% to $7.86 billion, supported by higher prices and inventory sales from a record 2025 crop.

• Livestock receipts are projected to increase 3%, with cattle receipts expected to reach $21.52 billion.

• Production expenses are also projected to reach a record high, keeping margins tight for many producers despite the strong aggregate income outlook.

Nebraska net farm income is projected to increase by 12% in 2026, reaching a record $9.96 billion, according to the latest projections from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln and the University of Missouri.

Higher government payments, continued strength in the livestock sector and a rebound in the crop sector are driving the projected $1.10 billion increase over 2025 levels, according to the Spring 2026 Farm Income Outlook for Nebraska. The report is a collaboration between the Center for Agricultural Profitability at Nebraska and the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at Missouri.

Nebraska’s projected increase contrasts with the national outlook, with projections showing U.S. net farm income holding relatively steady or declining slightly in 2026. The report attributes Nebraska’s improved outlook to strong livestock receipts and the outsized impact of government payments in the state.

Government payments in Nebraska are projected to increase by $1.24 billion, or 71%, to $2.97 billion in 2026. The increase is expected to come from higher Title I commodity program payments under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and ad hoc assistance.

The projected income reflects important support for the state’s farm economy but may not tell the full story of producer profitability, according to Brad Lubben, agricultural policy specialist at Nebraska.

“Strong cattle prices and higher government payments are helping push Nebraska’s projected farm income to a record level in 2026,” Lubben said. “At the same time, production expenses are also projected to reach a record high. That means many producers may still be working with tight margins, even in a year when the aggregate income number looks very strong.”

Total livestock receipts in Nebraska are projected to increase by $708 million, or 3%, to $23.55 billion in 2026. Cattle receipts, which account for 91% of Nebraska livestock receipts, are projected to increase by $1.09 billion, or 5%, to $21.52 billion. That’s due to continued high cattle prices driven by tight supplies and stable marketings of heavier cattle, according to the report.

After three consecutive years of decline, crop receipts are projected to increase by $517 million, or 4%, to $12.01 billion. Corn receipts are projected to increase by $374 million, or 5%, to $7.86 billion, supported by higher prices and inventory sales from a record 2025 crop. Soybean receipts are projected to increase by $116 million, or 4%, to $3.08 billion.

“The crop side of the outlook is important because it marks a positive change from the past few years,” Lubben said. “That does not mean margins suddenly become easy, especially with fuel, fertilizer and other costs still elevated, but it does point to some improvement in the revenue picture for crop producers.”

Production expenses are projected to increase by $829 million, or 3%, to a record $30.37 billion in 2026. The report indicates key drivers are higher purchased livestock expenses, fuel costs and fertilizer costs. Purchased livestock expenses are projected at $10.55 billion, up 5% from 2025, while fuel and oil expenses are projected to increase 26% to $903 million. Fertilizer expenses are projected to increase 4% to $2.25 billion.

Looking ahead, the report projects Nebraska net farm income to decrease by $1.22 billion, or 12%, to $8.74 billion in 2027. That’s primarily driven by a projected $1.32 billion reduction in government payments, assuming a substantial drop in supplemental and ad hoc program payments.

“The information in the Farm Income Outlook is intended to help policymakers, industry analysts and agricultural practitioners understand the expected profitability of the state agricultural sector and the factors driving it,” said Alejandro Plastina, director of the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at Missouri. “For 2026, the Nebraska outlook points to strong aggregate income, but also continued exposure to high costs, policy uncertainty and changing market conditions.”

The report notes that its projections do not account for all market uncertainty and that small changes in cash receipts, production expenses or unannounced government assistance can substantially change the outlook for net farm income.

A webinar covering the report and current U.S. and Nebraska net farm income projections will be held at noon Central time on May 7. The full report and registration link are available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website.

Harvard sent off 10 new graduates during their ceremony, with Cohen Reutzel being honored as the class valedictorian, and Guadalupe Gabriel-Gomez was honored as the 2026 salutatorian.

Lillian Smith presented the senior welcome, with the Harvard Choir singing “The Lighthouse” in between Gabriel-Gomez’s and Reutzel’s speeches.

Harvard School Board president, Janet Hachtel, presented diplomas to the class to finalize the program.

Serving as junior class attendants were Mayleea Boyd, Yani Diaz-Campos, Haley Gimpel, and Sebastian Rodriguez Jauregui.

Sandy Creek presented diplomas to 31 graduates this year, with Katelyn Pohlmieier being honored as the class valedictorian and Emma Fisher as the salutatorian.

Jeremy Borer served as the guest speaker for the 2026 graduating class, with Superintendent Stephen Grizzle welcoming guests at the ceremony.

Diplomas were presented by school board members Ryan Petr and Laurie Kohmetscher.

Petr also presented Darrell Pernicek with an honorary diploma to recognize Pernicek’s long term tenure as a teacher at Sandy Creek High School.

Sutton also presented 31 graduating seniors as guests of their ceremony, with the Sutton Choir opening the program with two songs, “Maybe Someday,” and “The Times They are A-Changin.”

Adilynn Gimple was the class salutatorian this year, while Mia Ochsner was honored as the class valedictorian for the Class of 2026.

The presentation of the diploma ceremony was presented by junior class president, Breckyn Peterson, with superintendent, Jason Cline, and school board president, James Jones, Jr.

Sutton’s honor guard this year was Peterson, and junior class vice-president, Shepleigh Ohrt.

Ushers for Sutton were Griffin Bergen, Creighton Jones, DJ Hajny, and Marshall Reed, serving as program attendants were Katie Baldwin, Jadlynn Kinney, Dyvet Fonseca, and Kamryn Steinhauer.

This year, the focus is on Sutton High School graduates who have served in the military. It’s a starting point, shaped by the time and resources available, and one the Chamber hopes to build on over time.

They are also asking for the community’s help.

There are veterans whose names have not yet been submitted, and the Chamber wants to make sure as many as possible are included. Anyone who graduated from Sutton High School and served, or who knows someone who did, is encouraged to share that information.

To submit a name, visit the Sutton Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page at www. facebook. com/ suttonareachamber and follow the link provided there. For those who prefer not to use online forms, information can also be shared by contacting Chamber President Monica Smith at 402-9841323.

While this project has a defined focus, the appreciation behind it is much broader. Around here, service is something people recognize and remember, and this is one small way to make sure those stories are honored.

Sometimes it just takes one name to make sure someone’s story is remembered.

LINCOLN — Some U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers could be relocated to Nebraska under a plan to close a Washington D.C.-area research facility.

Nebraska researchers say more USDA personnel could benefit the state’s research efforts, but with few details shared about the project or staff movement, how much help they’ll get is unclear.

In July 2025, the USDA announced it would close the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC) in Maryland as part of a department “reorganization” effort.

In an April announcement, the USDA said it would relocate employees to at least 27 USDA facilities across the country. One of those locations is in Clay Center, Nebraska.

The U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) works on animal health, animal food production, food safety and soil and air quality projects. Its employees work for the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) — a USDA subagency that conducts and funds research.

University of Nebraska researchers and faculty often collaborate with USDA scientists, said Derek McLean, dean and director of the UNL Institute of Agricultural and Natural Resources’ Agricultural Research Division.

“The mission of our researchers to help support Nebraska agriculture, to help develop new innovations, to work closely with them and to be responsive to the challenges that they face, basically on a daily to yearly basis – that mission is strongly overlapped with the ARS mission and their commitment to research excellence and scientific integrity to help in field-based research that can help support our producers,” McLean said.

He said he welcomes any ARS scientists offered relocation to Nebraska.

“When we can leverage the strength of the ARS scientists and the strength of the University of Nebraska scientists, I mean, it’s just a win for Nebraska producers, and actually nationwide for all the research in the ag industry,” McLean said.

Few details have been announced about how staff will be distributed to ARS locations nationally. A USDA spokesperson told Nebraska Public Media News that the department “will maintain open communication and close coordination as the new organizational structure is implemented over the coming year(s).”

ARS researchers are ‘deeply rooted in their mission’ University of Nebraska- Lincoln professor and extension specialist Matt Spangler’s expertise is in beef cattle genetics. He has frequently collaborated with scientists in his specialty at USMARC for nearly two decades.

“They deeply care about the industries that they serve. They understand the industries very well,” Spangler said. “Many of them grew up on family farms or ranches, so they understand from that vantage point. Deeply rooted in their mission is serving those clientele, and I think that’s part of the reason why our collaboration has remained so strong over the years.”

Spangler said the projects they’ve worked on have directly helped the agriculture industry. Certain genetic traits in cattle control meat tenderness, growth and feed efficiency, so Spangler said USMARC and the University of Nebraska built a tool that helps cattle ranchers see how different genetic traits economically affect their operation.

“This web-based decision support software, which is in heavy use in the U.S. beef industry, combines all those partial [research] solutions to help people actually make decisions,” Spangler said.

He said USDA’s many connections to state universities and for-profit ag industry groups helps connect them to solutions that arise from USMARC’s research.

“Through those collaborations, it’s clear that not only do they listen to the needs of industry, but then they utilize the resources they have to provide solutions to those questions,” Spangler said. “And so to me, strong collaboration with them is essential if we’re going to jointly help the industry through the challenges it may have going forward.”

While Spangler said more ARS scientists would be beneficial, it’s hard to say how Nebraska’s research would be affected by the USDA reorganization without more information on the personnel and projects moving to the state.

Spangler said USMARC was impacted by USDA staff loss in the first year of the second Trump administration, delaying some research projects and industry reports.

“Any time there are reductions in scientists or technical staff, it has an impact, not only on the scientists that are remaining, but also on the clientele they serve,” Spangler said.

During the first year of the second Trump administration, ARS lost about 30% of its staff across the country. Currently, 131 ARS employees are working in Nebraska – 47 fewer positions than in 2024 – according to U.S. Office of Personnel Management data. The same staff reductions affected the ARS-Lincoln facility, which focuses on crop improvement and management techniques.

“We would love to see replacement of some of the expertise that we lost due to retirements and the Deferred Resignation Program. We would like to see those units built back up to full strength,” said UNL agronomy and horticulture professor Katherine Frels.

Frels works on developing varieties of wheat and other small grains. She said ARS researchers in Lincoln are instrumental in that process. For example, the USDA could develop a positive genetic trait for wheat, then Frels and other university researchers can find a practical use for it.

“We take that trait and then we put it in a really good package that’s adapted for the environmental conditions in Nebraska, for example,” Frels said. “To do that, it really takes that wide range of specializations all the way from really basic research science, all the way to more applied plant breeding.”

More help from ARS scientists could give research a boost, she said, especially after those staff cuts.

“The amount of data that I am able to get from the USDA is significantly reduced, “ Frels said. “Instead of getting disease ratings on 300 lines, I’m only getting disease ratings on about 30 to 40 lines. That’s a pretty big drop, and that’s going to have impacts on the amount of disease resistant wheat that I can produce for farmers here.”

The ARS scientists can test Frels’ work in other states, giving her more genetic and crop performance data, plugging her into a wider collaborative network.

“They facilitate this interaction between wheat breeders across multiple states, and it makes us all better for it,” Frels said.

Keeping BARC open is a ‘question of commitment’ Today, about 400 buildings stand on the nearly 7,000-acre Maryland BARC campus – about a 30-minute drive from Capitol Hill.

BARC was officially established in 1910. In its history, Beltsville researchers have made strides in food safety and ag production. They developed ways to improve the shelf life of butter, created the small variety of turkey used on Thanksgiving tables, invented products to fight honeybee diseases and discovered a cacao-eating fungus threatening chocolate production.

The Trump administration argues it would be too costly to repair and modernize the 116-year-old campus. Instead, the USDA argues, moving research out of the area would lower overhead costs and bring research efforts closer to where communities can use them.

“Science is most effective when it’s connected to the people and places it’s meant to serve,” Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics and Chief Scientist Dr. Scott Hutchins said in an April statement. “This effort strengthens our ability to deliver actionable research, trusted data, and innovative solutions by aligning our teams more closely with agricultural producers across the country. It ensures our work remains relevant, responsive, and grounded in the needs of American farmers.”

Currently, about 4,600 USDA employees work in or around the Washington D.C. area, and the USDA plans to keep no more than 2,000 there.

A former BARC honeybee research leader, Jeff Pettis, told Harvest Public Media in March that he worries that plans to move employees out of the area could cause the USDA to lose those experienced researchers.

“People built their careers in a certain location,” Pettis said. “Personally, they don’t want to move, so you end up losing people.”

The BARC’s proximity to Capitol Hill was also instrumental in educating lawmakers and influencing positive ag policies, Pettis said.

“It’s really invaluable to have that much expertise right there close to Washington for policy issues,” Pettis said. “It’s an aging facility, no doubt, but when those buildings were renovated – they were beautiful, old brick buildings, and they turned out beautifully. It’s just a question of commitment, and I think there’s a lack of commitment right now by the current administration.”

The closure is part of a larger effort to streamline the USDA by “strengthening leadership accountability, reducing organizational complexity, ensuring consistency across agencies where appropriate, leveraging emerging tools and technologies, and aligning clearly with USDA’s priorities.”

This story was originally published by Nebraska Public Media News, a network of local reporters working with a National Public Radio station based in Lincoln.

This story can also be read online at: https://nebraskaexaminer. com/2026/05/06/a-research- facility-closure-couldbring- more-usda-scientists-tonebraska/

---Matthew 25:41 The Bible teaches that the only people who go to heaven are those who are washed from the guilt and pollution of their sins by the blood of Jesus Christ, and this only happens when a person is united to Jesus by true faith.

The Apostle John wrote in Revelation 1:5-6, “Jesus Christ is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead and the ruler over the kings of the earth, who has loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood.” Heaven is where believers have perfect communion with God. It is a place of everlasting rest for the saints where sin, sorrow, and death no longer exist (Rev. 21:4).

In Matthew chapter 25, Jesus not only speaks about Heaven, but He also speaks about Hell. Jesus said Hell is a place of everlasting torment of both body and soul in the lake of fire, which is prepared for the devil and all unbelievers. Does your heart tremble over the sobering truth of Hell? The world laughs about Hell and speaks of it as a myth. Many others say Hell is something in this life and they refer to the suffering and miseries they go through as Hell. There are even some in the church who deny the existence of Hell. But the only thing that matters is what the sovereign God of the universe has revealed in His Word, and when you come to Scripture you find that Hell is a real place and it is not here on earth. Hell is a place of torment for all those who would not trust Jesus Christ for the salvation of their souls. Jesus told the Pharisees in John 5:40, “But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.” And again, in John 8:24, “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” Surely, Hell is a truth from God’s Word that ought to awaken every human being.

Three places in Scripture, Matthew 8:12, 22:13, and 25:30, Jesus calls Hell a place of outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Do you see the seriousness of our sins? Sin is not something to laugh about or ignore. Sin is a wicked thing that deserves everlasting punishment in Hell (Romans 6:23). And the only refuge, the only escape, the only possible way to avoid an eternity in Hell, which every sinner deserves, is by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ. He is our only hope.

Is your faith in Jesus Christ? Do you trust Him alone for the salvation of your soul? If so, then your life will manifest your trust in Him.

Understand that I am not speaking about the perfection of your life but the direction of your life. You will delight in God’s Word, worship on the Lord’s Day, fellowship with God’s people, service of others, and love for the brethren. You see, true faith produces repentance and good works; they are fruits of true faith (Ephesians 2:8-10). Notice what Jesus said of those who trusted in Him, “I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me” (Matt. 25:35-36). True faith was manifested in the redeemed by their good works. But if your life is only hypocrisy then your confession of Christ is empty and vain, and the Word of God says to you right now, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved!” Christ’s perfect life, sin atoning death, and glorious resurrection is the only hope of avoiding God’s justice being satisfied on us in Hell.

Are you trusting Jesus?

In all, Sutton gained 11 medals, eight on the track and three more in field events.

Senior Miranda Nuss gained two of the three field event medals in the two throwing events, placing third in the shot put with a 32’ 6” throw, and fourth in the discus with a 100’ 1” throw.

Centennial’s Kate Breitkruetz won the shot put with a 35’ 8” toss, while Malcolm’s Mikiah Witzel claimed the discus title with a 116’ 9” throw.

Senior Addison George finished fourth in the high jump with a 4’ 7” leap. Malcolm’s Marion Teten won with a 4’ 11” jump.

On the track, two of Sutton’s eight track medals were gold medal performances, led by junior Jadlynn Kinney’s win in the 400-meter dash with a time of 60.47 seconds, beating second place Halle Dolliver of Malcolm by nearly two seconds.

Kinney then joined forces with Kali White, Isabella Trejo, and Kierra Ebert to easily win the 4x400-meter relay over Thayer Central by nearly 13 seconds. Sutton finished with a time of four minutes, 13.17 seconds, with Thayer Central finishing in a time of 4:25.86.

Kinney also added a runner- up finish to her credit in the 200-meter dash, finishing the event in 26.51 seconds, while Blair Duzik of Malcolm claimed the win in 26.28 seconds.

Two medals came to the Fillies in the 100-meter hurdles, with Camden Mau placing third in 17.53 seconds, while Trejo placed fifth in a time of 17.65 seconds. Sandy Creek’s Carrigan Rempe claimed the win with her time of 16.54 seconds.

Sutton’s throwers relay team, made up of Nuss, Zoe Salmon, Julie Smith, and Katie Baldwin, placed second overall with a time of 60.05 seconds. Fillmore Central claimed the win with a time of 57.22 seconds.

Sutton’s 4x100-meter relay team, made up of America Hernandez, Ebert, Mau, and Baldwin, finished sixth with a time of 55.25 seconds. Thayer Central won the relay with a time of 50.10 seconds.

White also placed sixth in the 300-meter hurdles with her final time of 51.51 seconds. Rempe of Sandy Creek also won this hurdle race with a time of 48.17 seconds.

The 4x100-meter relay team, made up of Kaeden Schmidt, Ian Zikmund, Asher Eitzmann, and Ben Burger, claimed the event title over Sutton by nearly a full second, as the Cougars finished in a time of 44.99 seconds, while the Mustangs finished with a time of 45.91 seconds.

Both the 4x800 and 4x400-meter relay teams finished sixth for Sandy Creek. Making up the 4x800-meter relay were Brockett Reed, Thaxton Sintek, Embry Frazier, and Owen Spray. They finished with a time of 10 minutes, 5.59 seconds. Fillmore Central claimed the win with a time of 8:55.10.

In the 4x400-meter relay, Sandy Creek’s team of Sintek, Connor Calderon, Dakota Samson, and Dawson Black finished sixth with a time of 4:48.23. Thayer Central claimed gold with a winning time of 3:33.25.

Sandy Creek’s throwing squad claimed five total medals in the shot put and discus.

In the shot put, an event won by Thayer Central’s Cole Vorderstrasse with a throw of 58 feet, Sandy Creek had a trio of medalists, led by Cedric Oeltjen with a third place throw of 46’ 6”, Sam Watts finished fourth with a 45’ 4” effort, while Christian Shaw placed fifth with a 44’ 8” throw.

In the discus, Christian Lorena- Parks was second with a 150’ 3” throw, while Shaw finished fourth with a 144’ 6” toss. Vorderstrasse claimed gold with a 161’ 6” throw.

Scoring in the meet for the Cougars was rounded out by a third-place finish in the high jump for Logan Tomky, clearing 5’ 5” in the event. Centennial’s Bentley Juranek won with a 5’ 11” leap.

Tomky and Schmidt both medaled in the long jump to round out Sandy Creek’s scoring, with Tomky finishing third with an 18’ 7” jump, while Schmidt was fifth with a 17’ 9” leap. Superior’s Lincoln Sander claimed gold with a 20’ 2” jump.

Mustang program under coach Randy Ahrens has had 4 straight conference champions

The Sutton boys golf program, under the direction of coach Randy Ahrens, has built a tradition of winning when it comes to the Southern Nebraska Conference golf championships. Ahrens has coached a player to the past four individual championship wins in the tournament, with the most recent being Sutton freshman, Myles Smith.

Smith claimed the 2026 SNC crown with an even-par 70 at the Hebron Country Club Thursday, May 7, holding off Milford’s Zephyr Mowinkel by two strokes, just two days after Mowinkel claimed the Sutton Invite individual title over Smith May 5.

With Smith’s conference title, he became the fourth Sutton winner in the past four seasons, as Jadyn Friesen claimed the SNC crown in 2023, and 2025, while Harrison Herndon won the title in 2024.

Smith shot even par throughout the day, carding scores of 35 during each of the two nine-hole rounds. Mowinkel opened play with a 35, but shot two-over-par on the back nine to end the day with a 72.

Sutton, as a team, placed third with a collective 343. Milford claimed an easy team title over second-place Superior, as the Eagles outscored the Wildcats 319-335.

Senior Carson Cline was a top-15 medalist for Ahrens and his teammates, shooting an 86 during the two ninehole rounds. Cline carded scores of 43 on both rounds of the tournament.

Tristan Griess ended the day with a 93, with scores of 48 and 45. Eduardo Valenzuela shot scores of 47 during both rounds to finish play with a 94, while Harrison Schurman opened with a 55 on the front side, but trimmed 15 strokes off of his score on the back nine to shoot a 40 and finish the day with a 95.

Sutton was to return to Hebron Wednesday, May 13, for the Thayer Central Invitational, before entering the Class C-4 District meet at the Southern Hills Golf Course southwest of Hastings on Monday, May 18.

The meet is slated to begin at 9 a.m. with a strong field of 16 teams set to compete.

Teams in the C-4 meet include: the host Adams Central Patriots, Arcadia/Loup City, Central City, Centura, Doniphan-Trumbull, Gibbon, Grand Island Central Catholic, H&H, Kearney Catholic, Minden, Ord, Sandy Creek, St. Paul, Superior, Sutton, and Wood River.

Team Scores: Milford 319, Superior 335, Sutton 343, David City 347, Sandy Creek 356, Thayer Central 357, H&H 364, Fairbury 365, Fillmore Central 372, Centennial 403.

Basic auto services offered are, oil changes, tires, and have experience in rebuilds. At this time, they are not equipped to do alignments or air conditioners. Pickups, side by sides and cars, have been seen in the building getting ready for the summer months. They are not offering services on diesels.

Trevor Church is the owner of Clay Center Auto Service. He is self-taught and brings 20 years of experience to the business.

David Francis graduated from Central Community College with an automotive degree. Church is the main “hands-on mechanic.” Francis volunteers his time offering mechanical engineering and his master mechanic guidance as needed.

Church uses a checklist when completing work on the vehicles. This checklist process helps to him review areas on the vehicle before a problem can arise. All jobs take time and they want to thoroughly complete the job correctly.

Since opening the garage doors around March 30, the community has been welcoming them with great support. Church and Francis said the main idea is to fulfill a need for Clay Center and surrounding communities.

Plans are still being finalized, including the possibility of a future rewards program. Flyers may be sent to residents announcing the new business. One of the most frequently asked questions has been, “Will there be an outdoor tire inflater machine?”

The answer is yes — outside air will be available.

This is a simple thing but a big deal for our community- outside air service!

To contact: Clay Center Auto Service, 108 North Brown Ave., in Clay Center. Phone: 402-224-0937. They are open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Under the direction of industrial technology teacher Mr. Ramer, students have already completed projects for local organizations, including building a new privacy fence at Gee’s Greenhouse. Plans are also underway for students to potentially assist The Bread Box with renovations at its new location.

The program began after school administrators approved a construction class designed to teach students practical, hands-on building skills.

“We decided to allow students to start learning construction techniques such as building decks, fences and other projects that give them real-world experience,” Ramer said.

The opportunity at Gee’s Greenhouse came after owners Jesse and Shelli Mohnike reached out while working on improvements made possible through grant funding from the City of Sutton. Students removed old fencing and built a new privacy fence for the greenhouse.

“It was a great opportunity for our kids to learn basic layout skills and outdoor fencing construction,” Ramer said. “It gives them experience they can use at home someday or in a future job.”

Ramer said students may also have the opportunity to assist with renovation work for The Bread Box as the nonprofit prepares to move into a new location. Potential work could include demolition, framing, drywall, electrical preparation, and assisting professionals with HVAC installation.

While licensed professionals would complete final electrical and HVAC work, students would gain valuable exposure by working alongside them.

“It gives our kids kind of an apprenticeship experience,” Ramer said.

The class has generated enough interest that Sutton Public Schools plans to offer two construction courses next year.

Ramer said the school is actively looking for additional community projects, including fences, decks and similar jobs that would allow students to continue learning while helping local residents save on labor costs. Community members interested in having students assist with a project can contact him through Sutton Public Schools.

The program may eventually expand even further.

Before coming to Sutton, Ramer taught in Iowa where students helped renovate older homes that were later sold.

“We would buy a dilapidated house, spend a year remodeling it, and then auction it off,” he said.

He hopes a similar concept could someday happen in Sutton.

“Our big goal is that eventually we could obtain a house and remodel it,” Ramer said. “It would give our kids incredible experience while improving our community.”

Ramer said one of the most rewarding parts of the program has been watching students rise to the occasion.

“They’ve been incredibly responsible,” he said. “They know people are going to see their work, and they want to do it right.”

He also believes partnerships between schools and local businesses help students explore careers before investing thousands of dollars in college.

“Students can find out what they enjoy before spending money on something that may not be the right fit,” he said.

Ramer said teaching trade skills benefits students whether they pursue careers in construction or simply use those skills later in life.

While some students may go on to careers as carpenters, electricians, plumbers or linemen, others may choose completely different paths but still benefit from learning practical skills they can use as homeowners someday.

“Even if they don’t go into construction, they’ll still have those hands-on skills when they become homeowners,” Ramer said.

Ramer said local tradespeople are also encouraged to get involved by speaking to students, mentoring them or sharing their expertise in the classroom.

“It gives students a chance to learn from people who do this work every day,” he said.

He also credited Mr. Cline, Mr. Cafferty, and the Sutton School Board for helping make the program possible.

“The push really came from Mr. Cline, Mr. Cafferty, and our school board,” Ramer said. “I’m glad they’ve given us this opportunity.”

As interest continues to grow, the program is giving students practical experience while helping strengthen the Sutton community—one project at a time.

People still picture libraries as quiet places filled with shelves of books and the occasional whispered conversation.

But across Clay County, that picture doesn’t come close.

In towns like Sutton, Fairfield, Clay Center, and Harvard, libraries have quietly evolved into something much bigger—spaces where kids play, families gather, technology is accessed, and communities stay connected. They’ve become places where people show up not just for what they need, but for what they didn’t even realize was available.

A few years ago, walking into the Sutton Public Library might have meant a quiet visit with only a handful of people inside.

Today, that same space is filled with activity.

“When I first started, we were seeing on average five or fewer people a day,” said Crystal Godina. “Now we have days where we may have upwards of 20 to 30 people in the library.”

Not all of them are coming for books—and that’s exactly the point.

The library has expanded to include STEM play areas for younger children, interactive gaming like the Nex Playground that encourages movement, and access to digital reading through the Libby, allowing patrons to check out books and audiobooks from their phones or tablets.

“They are not all coming to check out books or to read,” Godina said. “But they are coming in the doors—and that’s what counts.”

Some of the most surprising offerings are the ones many people don’t even realize exist.

The Sutton library includes a Glowforge laser cutter, a color copier and laminator, and a fully equipped podcast production space—tools that open the door to creativity and learning in entirely new ways.

While the podcast room is available for public use, it has It’s one of those things people are often surprised to learn is available—once they walk through the doors.

For anyone interested in storytelling, interviews, or even starting a small podcast, the opportunity is already there.

At the same time, the library has become a gathering place— especially for families.

Monthly toddler preschool hours bring young children together for stories and crafts, while also creating a space for parents to connect.

“It benefits the children… but also the stay-at-home and homeschooling mothers,” Godina said. “They stay and socialize with one another.”

Step inside the Fairfield Public Library, and you’ll find a space where history and community meet.

Housed in an original Carnegie library building, the atmosphere is warm, familiar, and quietly active.

“Libraries are an important part of our small communities,” Sonny Otto said. “It offers space where everyone is welcome and can utilize its resources for free.”

But what’s happening inside goes far beyond checking out books.

On any given week, crochet groups gather to work and visit. Book clubs and even a cookbook club bring people together over shared interests. A monthly StoryTime welcomes younger children, while summer reading programs draw dozens of participants.

“Many people visit our library and learn about the things that are happening, then reply, ‘I didn’t know you have that!’” Otto said.

That sense of discovery is part of what keeps the library growing.

Plans are already in motion for expanded programming, including an ancestry initiative and a future makerspace area.

At the same time, the Fairfield library continues to meet everyday needs in practical ways—from large print materials and visual aids for those with impaired vision to items like projectors, display easels, and even coffee equipment available for checkout.

For many residents, the Clay Center Public Library is as much about access as it is about enrichment.

It’s a place to check out books, puzzles, DVDs, and games, but also a place to print a document, send a fax, or use a computer when those resources aren’t available at home.

According to the library, providing access to technology remains a central part of its mission.

Like other libraries in the county, Clay Center has seen an increase in homeschool groups using the space, along with growing use of digital platforms like Libby and Hoopla.

Throughout the year, programs like summer reading, holiday events, and community activities continue to bring people together, reinforcing the library’s role as a dependable and welcoming place for all.

More than a century after its doors first opened, the Harvard Public Library continues to serve its community in many of the same ways, while quietly adapting to modern needs.

Built in 1914 with funds from the Carnegie Foundation and opened in 1915, the library has remained in continuous use ever since.

Today, it offers books for readers of all ages, along with audiobooks and movies. Patrons can access computers, Wi-Fi, printing, and scanning services, and an enhanced reading device is available for those with visual impairments.

The library also provides meeting space for local groups and hosts a summer reading program for elementary-aged children, continuing its long-standing role in supporting literacy and learning.

Across all four communities, one theme stands out.

Libraries are no longer defined solely by the books on their shelves.

They are places where children come to play and learn, families gather and connect, students and homeschoolers find resources, residents access technology, and communities come together.

They are also one of the few remaining spaces where someone can walk in, stay as long as they like, use valuable resources, and not be expected to spend a dollar.

But that kind of space doesn’t sustain itself without support.

While many operational costs are covered through city funding, programs, expansions, and new opportunities often rely on grants, donations, and just as importantly, community use. Every person who walks through the door, attends a program, checks out a book, or tells someone else about what the library offers plays a role in keeping it relevant and supported.

Small town libraries don’t just exist because they always have. They continue because communities choose to use them, support them, and see their value.

In a time when so many services come with a cost, Clay County libraries continue to offer something rare: access, opportunity, and connection for anyone who walks through the door.

For those who haven’t stopped in lately, there’s a good chance they’ll discover something they didn’t know was there, and a reason to help make sure it’s still there for years to come.

Most are familiar with the athletic National Letter of Intent ceremonies held in the spring at high schools across the country. This year, Sutton Public Schools is holding their first Academic Letter of Intent ceremony for students who excel in the classroom. The criteria for recognition is for the student to accept a scholarship from the college they will attend that is specifically awarded for academic achievement.

On Wednesday, April 29, students and their parents, along with Sutton High School students, staff, and college personnel, were invited to commemorate the hard work of these students in the classroom. Language within the academic letter of intent signed by students speaks of their commitment to continued focus on excellence in the classroom and giving of their talents to the college they are attending. By signing, they are making a public statement that they will work diligently to maintain their established pattern of academic excellence beyond high school.

The letter of intent read: This letter of intent represents my commitment to attend “ Name of College” in the fall of 2026. I have just completed my high school career and wish to continue my history of educational excellence on your campus.

Your undergraduate program provides me with the platform I need to move forward with my academic and professional goals. I look forward to working with you in achieving these goals and to give back of myself to the students and staff of your institution.

I graciously accept your support of an academic scholarship. I respect and appreciate your recognition of those that excel in the classroom and am looking forward to being on campus to contribute my talents to the academic environment you have established.

My signature represents my sincere commitment to work diligently to maintain high standards of academic achievement with your institution.

Seniors that signed their letter of intent included:

• Brody Borgmann, the son of Scott and April Borgmann. He will be attending the University of Nebraska- Lincoln, majoring in Mechanical Engineering;

• Carson Cline, the son of Jason and Heather Cline. Cline will be attending Kansas State University, majoring in Athletic Training and Sports Medicine, and Pre-Medicine;

• Shea Eggers, the daughter of Kristi Griess, and Bobby Eggers. She will be attending Marymount Manhattan College in New York, majoring in Music Theater;

• Lincoln Friesen, the daughter of Keenan and Elizabeth Friesen, will be attending Surgeon College in Kansas City, MO, majoring in Christian Education;

• Addison George, the daughter of Doug and Jennifer George, will be attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders (SLP);

• Adilynn Gimple, the daughter of Philip and Crystal Schutte, and Matt Gimple will attend the University of Nebraska-Kearney, majoring in Business Administration/ Finance;

• Kyla Griess, the daughter of Jarod and Jolene Griess, will be attending Concordia University in Seward, majoring in Nursing;

• Kayden Kauk, the daughter of Kristine and Chris Sedersten, and Ben Kauk, will attend Northeast Community College in Norfolk, majoring in Nursing;

• Laurel Moore, the daughter of Chris and Jessica Moore, will attend the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, majoring in Animal Science, Livestock Management and Animal Reproduction;

• Mia Ochsner, the daughter of Pat and Sara Ochsner, will attend Concordia University in Seward, majoring in Nursing; Korey Poppe, the son of Jason and Brittney Poppe, will be attending Northeast Community College in Norfolk, majoring in the Utility Lineman field;

• Signing a letter of intent to the University of Nebraska was Rylan Reutzel to major in Business Analytics. He is the son of Rick and Donis Reutzel;

• Avery Smith, the daughter of Monica Smith and the late Blake Smith, signed with Hastings College, and will major in Marketing;

• Jentry Stenger, the daughter of Nathan and JJ McKenzie, and Joey and Erica Stenger will be attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona, majoring in Social Work; and

• Kaci Yost, the daughter of Jon and Stacey Yost, will be attending Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln, and will major in Nursing.

The Sutton Fillies, behind four field event medals, and another four medals on the track, finished in seventh place during the 2026 Southern Nebraska Conference championships, Saturday, May 2, in David City.

Milford outscored Thayer Central 110-70 for the team title, as the Fillies ended the meet scoring 42 points.

Sutton’s 4x400-meter relay, on the last event of the day, earned gold with a dominant win over Milford, as the team of Kali White, Jadlynn Kinney, Isabella Trejo, and Kierra Ebert out ran second-place Milford by one full second, as Sutton finished the four-lap relay with a time of four minutes, 8.26 seconds, while Milford finished in 4:09.26.

Kinney then doubled up for a pair of silver medals in the 200 and 400-meter dash races. In the 200, Kinney finished with a time of 26.74 seconds, while Thayer Central’s Piper Havel claimed gold with a time of 26.36 seconds.

In the 400, Kinney’s time of 60.11 seconds earned her second place behind Milford’s Abby Crabtree, who won with a time of 59.9 seconds.

Miranda Nuss doubled up in the two throwing events, placing fourth in the shot put with a 32-foot throw, while in the discus, Nuss’ throw of 99’ 6” placed her sixth overall.

Fairbury’s Autumn L’Ecuyer won both throwing events, claiming top honors in the shot put with a 42’ 7.5 throw, while in the discus, she earned gold with a 112’ 4” throw.

Addison George and America Hernandez both earned SNC medals in the high jump, with George clearing 4’ 8” to place third, while Hernandez tied with Thayer Central’s JaeLynn Watson for fourth place, as both cleared 4’ 6”.

Team Scores: Milford 110, Thayer Central 70, David City 49, Wilber-Clatonia 47.33, Tri County 47, Sandy Creek 43.33, Sutton 42, Fairbury 38, Centennial 26, H&H 23, Superior 19.33, Fillmore Central 12.

Adams Central’s Braeden Dyer held off Corman in the playoff, winning by one stroke in the playoff, as both finished with an 18-hole 76 to force the playoff, with Dyer claiming the top spot.

Corman opened the day with a 39 on his front nine round, while on the back nine, Corman shot a 37 to force the tie with Dyer.

Dyer duplicated Corman’s scoring to take the tournament into the playoff.

As a team, behind Corman’s 76, Sandy Creek trailed the Patriots by 31 strokes, but managed to hang on for the team runner-up spot, as Adams Central outscored the Cougars 324-355. Hastings High finished third behind Sandy Creek with a 357.

Rounding out play for the Cougars was Evan Swartzendruber, who fired an 82 with scores of 39 and 43, placing Swartzendruber eighth overall. Gavin Fisher ended the day with a 94, shooting scores of 48 on the front nine and 46 on the back nine.

Kamerin Sealey shot a 103 during the tournament with scores of 52 on the front and 51 on the back, while John Skalka closed out play with a 107 with scores of 54 and 53.

Team Scores: Adams Central 324, Sandy Creek 355, Hastings High 357, Doniphan-Trumbull 358, Hastings St. Cecilia 358, Grand Island Central Catholic 365, Red Cloud 365, Boone Central 372, Fillmore Central 380, Sutton 382, Wood River 386, Thayer Central 393, Fullerton 406, Franklin 416, Lawrence-Nelson 434, Hastings St. Cecilia JV 483.

The Bread Box in Sutton has received a total of $5,000 in grant funding through a cooperative matching program supported by Aurora Cooperative and Land O’Lakes.

The funding includes a $2,500 contribution from Aurora Cooperative, which was matched with an additional $2,500 from Land O’Lakes, effectively doubling the impact for the local organization.

Sara LaBrie of Aurora Cooperative visited The Bread Box on Friday morning, April 24, to present the check in person, marking the official delivery of the funds.

The grant is part of Aurora Cooperative’s Matching Grant Program, which partners with agricultural organizations to support projects focused on hunger relief and community vitality in rural areas. Through this program, selected local initiatives receive funding from Aurora, which is then submitted for matching support from partners such as Land O’Lakes.

For The Bread Box, the funding will help continue its mission of providing food and support to individuals and families in the Sutton community. Programs like this are designed to ensure that local organizations addressing essential needs have the resources necessary to expand their reach and maintain services.

Matching grant programs like this play a significant role in rural communities, where local dollars can be stretched further through cooperative partnerships. By combining resources, organizations are able to make a greater impact than would be possible through a single funding source alone.

The Bread Box is one of several community-focused recipients selected through the program, highlighting the continued importance of collaboration between local cooperatives and national partners in supporting small-town initiatives.