The University of Nebraska-Lincoln conferred a record 3,885 degrees during commencement exercises May 8-9. The 3,762 graduates - also a record - are from 61 countries; 45 U.S.

Blayklee Farr of Maywood, Nebraska and daughter of Dallas & Lindsay Farr has been awarded a scholarship from Consolidated Companies, Inc. for the 2026-2027 school year. Blayklee will receive a scholarship of $2,000 for higher education. Blayklee is a graduate of Maywood High School.

McCOOK, Neb. — The 2026 Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center Brake for Breakfast event made a significant impact across Nebraska this spring, bringing cancer screening awareness and prevention resources directly to communities throughout the state.

The Cambridge Board of Education met for an Americanism Committee Meeting at 6:45 p.m. with board members Virgil Banzhaf, Amy Sines, and Kim Huxoll present. At 7:00, they started the regular meeting. All board members were present. After the Pledge of Allegiance and the Open Meetings Law announcement, the board approved the agenda. There was no public comment.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service will be holding a Local Working Group meeting at the Lower Republican NRD Board Room located at 30 John Street in Alma on June 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm to discuss natural resource conservation program priorities. The meeting is open to the public. For individuals needing special accommodations, please contact the Alma NRCS Field Office at (308) 928-2089 Ext. 3.

ARAPAHOE - During the monthly school board meeting on May 11, retiring principal Rudy Perez celebrated the seniors who will graduate on May 16. “They have many memories in and out of the classroom and we wish nothing but the very best that life has to offer as they proceed into adulthood,” he said, before reflecting on his career in education.

Cherry pie, peach cobbler, and apple crisp, just a few of the delicious rewards that come from growing your own fruit. It’s easy to picture fresh fruit picked right from your backyard, but successfully growing fruit trees in Nebraska takes a bit of planning. Choosing the right location and the right tree can make all the difference.

CURTIS- The Medicine Valley School Board met on May 11. In addition to discussion on employee positions needing to be filled, the board discussed the financial outlook for the upcoming year.

MAYWOOD-Several action items were discussed and approved during the Maywood school board meeting on Monday, May 11. Since the contract with Children’s Hospital in Omaha was a success during the current school year, the contract was re-approved for 2026-2027.

Thank you to the Oxford community for supporting the Rural Carriers annual food drive. Susan Rhynalds from the food pantry and Valerie Percival rural carrier began this almost 20 years ago.