By TAYLOR JAMISON K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — As fruit starts to appear on spring trees, an overabundance may seem like a good thing, but Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham said too much fruit could ruin next year’s crop.&nbsp;

“A heavy fruit crop can interfere with fruit bud development this summer,” Upham said. “This can result in a small to no crop next year.”&nbsp;

Upham recommends removing excess fruit, a process called “thinning.” In addition to prepping a healthy crop for next year, thinning can also prevent limb damage due to too much weight, and it can promote a larger-sized crop. &nbsp;

“Fruit trees are limited in how many fruit they can mature,” Upham said. “(If you get) too many fruit and fruit size, (then) the quality goes down.”

Thinning recommendations vary by tree type. Upham outlined the most common fruit spacing guidelines:&nbsp;

Apples and Pears:&nbsp;6-8 inches apart. &nbsp;

Apples tend to cluster in groups of five; in that case, leave only the largest, nicest fruit in the cluster on the tree.&nbsp;

Peaches:&nbsp;6-8 inches apart.&nbsp;

Peaches also tend to cluster. As long as the average distance between fruit is about seven inches, it should be fine.&nbsp;

Plums and Prunes:&nbsp;4-5 inches apart.&nbsp;

Apricots:&nbsp;2-4 inches apart.&nbsp;

An exception to these guidelines are cherries, as they do not need to be thinned and can produce a full fruit load.&nbsp;

Upham said the recommendations are only averages, but as long as the amount of fruit on the branch is close to the recommended spacing, next year’s crop quality should be secure.&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your local&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653246208373.jpeg" alt="K-State's Ward Upham&nbsp;said fruit trees should be thinned for a healthy crop next year.&nbsp;

Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/flockine-5479910/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2632182">flockine</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2632182">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>K-State's Ward Upham&nbsp;said fruit trees should be thinned for a healthy crop next year.&nbsp;

Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/flockine-5479910/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2632182">flockine</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=2632182">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By TAYLOR JAMISON K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MANHATTAN — As fruit starts to appear on spring trees, an overabundance may seem like a good thing, but Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham said too much fruit could ruin next year’s crop.&nbsp;“A heavy fruit crop can interfere with fruit bud development this summer,” Upham said. “This can result in a small to no crop next year.”&nbsp;Upham recommends removing excess fruit, a process called “thinning.” In addition to prepping a healthy crop for next year, thinning can also prevent limb damage due to too much weight, and it can promote a larger-sized crop. &nbsp;“Fruit trees are limited in how many fruit they can mature,” Upham said. “(If you get) too many fruit and fruit size, (then) the quality goes down.”Thinning recommendations vary by tree type. Upham outlined the most common fruit spacing guidelines:&nbsp;Apples and Pears:&nbsp;6-8 inches apart. &nbsp;Apples tend to cluster in groups of five; in that case, leave only the largest, nicest fruit in the cluster on the tree.&nbsp;Peaches:&nbsp;6-8 inches apart.&nbsp;Peaches also tend to cluster. As long as the average distance between fruit is about seven inches, it should be fine.&nbsp;Plums and Prunes:&nbsp;4-5 inches apart.&nbsp;Apricots:&nbsp;2-4 inches apart.&nbsp;An exception to these guidelines are cherries, as they do not need to be thinned and can produce a full fruit load.&nbsp;Upham said the recommendations are only averages, but as long as the amount of fruit on the branch is close to the recommended spacing, next year’s crop quality should be secure.&nbsp;Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your local&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

Gardening: Too much fruit may not be a good thing

I wanted to congratulate you and your newlywed husband, Doug, on your wedding. It is 1983,&nbsp;The Joy of Painting with Bob Ross&nbsp;just debuted on PBS, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” has taken over your radio, and I’m sure that Doug’s hunting for teaching jobs.

Be on the lookout for a town called Deerfield. Sure, it’s hours away from your life and family in Salina. The smell … isn’t great. You may think, “Sure, but only for two, maybe three years, tops.”

Trust me when I say that in this humble town just west of Garden City, you will be a source of the most enriching “thrills” you can find this side of the Sunflower state.

After working for a while at Deerfield Grocery and having your first couple of kids, Brooks and Bailey, you’ll apply for the co-director position at the Deerfield Recreation Commission. It may seem like administrative work at first, and the office is only a small desk space at the high school. But it’s here that you’ll truly start sparking creativity in generations of young Spartans.

After having a couple of more kids, Brett and Bridget, you’ll hear about how to host an official Bob Ross art class, taught by Sandy Simon and T.R. Matthews, at Deerfield’s new community building. They’ll quickly become mentors to you as a budding artist. Over the years, they’ll encourage you to hone your own craft, and eventually teach classes yourself.

Not only through the Rec. Birthday parties, wine and paint events. There is immense satisfaction in the smiles on students’ faces. They’re shocked that they, too, can paint. All they need is the right teacher.

“Tot Lot” still happens every Tuesday morning, where you prepare a new children’s craft each week. Countless parents are grateful for this chance to connect with their neighbors, while their kids build social skills and find tools to better express themselves.

The Annual Deerfield Summer Celebration may currently be run by the local firefighters, but once you get involved, responsibility for the event shifts to the recreation department. It’s a lot of work, but your sisters drive out from Salina every year to fill gaps when needed.

Soon, Deerfield Days will be a larger “homecoming” event than, well, actual homecoming. You’ll manage to find a new theme every year, gather parade floats, book entertainment and curate an art show, of course. You’ll build traditions Deerfield takes great pride in, like having “The Best Fireworks Display in Southwest Kansas.”

Be sure to phone a friend for those large mural projects, at the Fitness Center you inevitably open in 1999 and the city pool building. When the years of weather have left your work faded, you partner with the high school’s art department to apply printed decals by local artists of all ages to have their work proudly displayed.

Over the years, you’ll hire generations of high schoolers as your summer activity aides, including all four of your kids. And in 2012, when their friend and your long-time rec employee Josh “Chachi” Skipton passes too soon, a new community center will be founded in his honor in that very grocery store on Main Street. “Chachi’s Place” is a shrine crafted with and in the spirit of public service, community, and homegrown excellence.

Chachi’s Place will then also serve as the director’s office. There you’ll continue to plan community events and trips for any and all occasions, possibly occupying your artistic mind more often than you care for. But no one does holiday crafts like you.

No one caters April Fool’s luncheons, where the potatoes look like sundaes and the desserts looks like meatloaf, like you can. No one champions the art of gathering like you can.

Eventually, your commitment to accessibility helps foster a community garden, public tandem bicycles and a new walking path. When you retire, you’ll receive a personal thank-you letter from Gov. Laura Kelly, a fellow advocate for parks and recreation.&nbsp;

Know you’ll be retiring to colorful and creative Lindsborg with Doug to be closer to your grandkids. But you’ll be around to teach a class back in Garden City alongside a friend on Friday, May 27 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/thepaintplacegcks/">The Paint Place</a>.

Over the coming years, in moments when you’re up late, head reeling with ideas, know that mini miracles happen with each craft you make. Each stroke of the brush adds to a masterpiece.&nbsp;

I have been lucky enough to bear witness to your work, your process, since I was born. Your championing of art and expression has given me gumption enough to pursue my own career in the arts.

So from one artist to another, thanks for the lessons, Ma. They have and will continue to inspire and change lives.

The above opinion piece is republished with permission from Kansas Reflector.

The Kansas Reflector welcomes opinion pieces from writers who share our goal of widening the conversation about how public policies affect the day-to-day lives of people throughout our state. Brett Crandall is an actor, writer, producer, puppeteer and LGBTQIA+ activist based in Garden City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653244224776.png" alt="Cindy Crandall’s commitment to accessibility helped foster a community garden, public tandem bicycles and a new walking path in Deerfield. (Brett Crandall provided photo)" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Crandall’s commitment to accessibility helped foster a community garden, public tandem bicycles and a new walking path in Deerfield. (Brett Crandall provided photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRETT CRANDALLDear Cindy Crandall,I wanted to congratulate you and your newlywed husband, Doug, on your wedding. It is 1983,&nbsp;The Joy of Painting with Bob Ross&nbsp;just debuted on PBS, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” has taken over your radio, and I’m sure that Doug’s hunting for teaching jobs.Be on the lookout for a town called Deerfield. Sure, it’s hours away from your life and family in Salina. The smell … isn’t great. You may think, “Sure, but only for two, maybe three years, tops.”Trust me when I say that in this humble town just west of Garden City, you will be a source of the most enriching “thrills” you can find this side of the Sunflower state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653242519587.jpeg" alt="Cindy Crandall poses for a photo in 1994. (Brett Crandall provided photo)" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Crandall poses for a photo in 1994. (Brett Crandall provided photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>After working for a while at Deerfield Grocery and having your first couple of kids, Brooks and Bailey, you’ll apply for the co-director position at the Deerfield Recreation Commission. It may seem like administrative work at first, and the office is only a small desk space at the high school. But it’s here that you’ll truly start sparking creativity in generations of young Spartans.First, you may need some guidance.After having a couple of more kids, Brett and Bridget, you’ll hear about how to host an official Bob Ross art class, taught by Sandy Simon and T.R. Matthews, at Deerfield’s new community building. They’ll quickly become mentors to you as a budding artist. Over the years, they’ll encourage you to hone your own craft, and eventually teach classes yourself.Not only through the Rec. Birthday parties, wine and paint events. There is immense satisfaction in the smiles on students’ faces. They’re shocked that they, too, can paint. All they need is the right teacher.“Tot Lot” still happens every Tuesday morning, where you prepare a new children’s craft each week. Countless parents are grateful for this chance to connect with their neighbors, while their kids build social skills and find tools to better express themselves.The Annual Deerfield Summer Celebration may currently be run by the local firefighters, but once you get involved, responsibility for the event shifts to the recreation department. It’s a lot of work, but your sisters drive out from Salina every year to fill gaps when needed.Soon, Deerfield Days will be a larger “homecoming” event than, well, actual homecoming. You’ll manage to find a new theme every year, gather parade floats, book entertainment and curate an art show, of course. You’ll build traditions Deerfield takes great pride in, like having “The Best Fireworks Display in Southwest Kansas.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653242672415.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>Be sure to phone a friend for those large mural projects, at the Fitness Center you inevitably open in 1999 and the city pool building. When the years of weather have left your work faded, you partner with the high school’s art department to apply printed decals by local artists of all ages to have their work proudly displayed.Over the years, you’ll hire generations of high schoolers as your summer activity aides, including all four of your kids. And in 2012, when their friend and your long-time rec employee Josh “Chachi” Skipton passes too soon, a new community center will be founded in his honor in that very grocery store on Main Street. “Chachi’s Place” is a shrine crafted with and in the spirit of public service, community, and homegrown excellence.Chachi’s Place will then also serve as the director’s office. There you’ll continue to plan community events and trips for any and all occasions, possibly occupying your artistic mind more often than you care for. But no one does holiday crafts like you.No one caters April Fool’s luncheons, where the potatoes look like sundaes and the desserts looks like meatloaf, like you can. No one champions the art of gathering like you can.Eventually, your commitment to accessibility helps foster a community garden, public tandem bicycles and a new walking path. When you retire, you’ll receive a personal thank-you letter from Gov. Laura Kelly, a fellow advocate for parks and recreation.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653242793911.jpeg" alt="Members of a painting class show off the results of their work. (Brett Crandall provided photo)" />
 <figcaption>Members of a painting class show off the results of their work. (Brett Crandall provided photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Know you’ll be retiring to colorful and creative Lindsborg with Doug to be closer to your grandkids. But you’ll be around to teach a class back in Garden City alongside a friend on Friday, May 27 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/thepaintplacegcks/">The Paint Place</a>.Over the coming years, in moments when you’re up late, head reeling with ideas, know that mini miracles happen with each craft you make. Each stroke of the brush adds to a masterpiece.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653242914535.jpeg" alt="Cindy Crandall knows that to show folks what is possible, sometimes you have to set the example. (Brett Crandall provided photo)" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Crandall knows that to show folks what is possible, sometimes you have to set the example. (Brett Crandall provided photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>I have been lucky enough to bear witness to your work, your process, since I was born. Your championing of art and expression has given me gumption enough to pursue my own career in the arts.So from one artist to another, thanks for the lessons, Ma. They have and will continue to inspire and change lives.Your son,BrettThe above opinion piece is republished with permission from Kansas Reflector.The Kansas Reflector welcomes opinion pieces from writers who share our goal of widening the conversation about how public policies affect the day-to-day lives of people throughout our state. Brett Crandall is an actor, writer, producer, puppeteer and LGBTQIA+ activist based in Garden City.

OPINION: Art of community;  creative contributions transform KS town

GYPSUM - A small earthquake rattled part of southeastern Saline County Saturday evening.

The Kansas Geological Survey reported that a 2.6 magnitude earthquake struck southwest of Gypsum at 6:21 p.m. Saturday. It was centered north of E. Hedberg Road between S. Kipp Road and S. Whitmore Road.

GYPSUM - A small earthquake rattled part of southeastern Saline County Saturday evening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653228318850.jpeg" alt="The 6:21 p.m. Saturday, 2.6 magnitude Saline County earthquake. Map courtesy Kansas Geological Survey" />
 <figcaption>The 6:21 p.m. Saturday, 2.6 magnitude Saline County earthquake. Map courtesy Kansas Geological Survey</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Geological Survey reported that a 2.6 magnitude earthquake struck southwest of Gypsum at 6:21 p.m. Saturday. It was centered north of E. Hedberg Road between S. Kipp Road and S. Whitmore Road.

Minor earthquake shakes part of SE Saline County Saturday

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County Public Information Coordinator

The Dickinson County Treasurer’s Department once again is offering driver’s license services for Dickinson County residents by appointment only.

Residents may make an appointment by calling the treasurer’s office at (785) 263-3231, according to Treasurer Leah Hern.

The return of Dickinson County’s driver's license office has been long awaited. Hern had planned to restart the driver's license service as soon as possible after moving back to the courthouse in early April. However, that was delayed more than a month due to technology issues as the county waited on the state to get the local office up and running.

The problem stemmed from the fact that the state motor vehicle office does not do its own IT (information technology) work so the county had to wait until another state agency completed the work, Dickinson County Administrator Brad Homman told commissioners last week.

The long-delayed opening was discussed during the May 12 county commission meeting after Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson said he had been contacted by county residents wanting to know when driver's license services would be available locally.

“If you have a birthday coming up, you can’t change that. If your license is going to expire within the next month, you need to get that renewed,” Peterson said.

Hern replied that she was hoping to have driver's license services available this week. She’s been telling people to call her office and staff will get them an appointment “right away.”

Driver’s license services are now available only by appointment. Hern said setting appointments works much better than taking walk-ins. People don’t have to wait and she can assign staff as needed to handle the driver's license portion of the office.

The Dickinson County Treasurer’s department was unable to offer driver's license services during the 14-months the office was located in the Abilene Civic Center during the courthouse renovation. That was because dedicated driver's license lines had been installed at the courthouse to handle those transactions. It was not financially feasible to move and reinstall the lines at a temporary location and then move them back.

The Dickinson County Treasurer’s office offers the following driver’s license services.

●Issuance of duplicate Kansas licenses and

For more information about driver’s license or other services offered by the treasurer’s office call (785) 263-3231.

By KATHY HAGEMAN Dickinson County Public Information CoordinatorThe Dickinson County Treasurer’s Department once again is offering driver’s license services for Dickinson County residents by appointment only.Residents may make an appointment by calling the treasurer’s office at (785) 263-3231, according to Treasurer Leah Hern.The return of Dickinson County’s driver's license office has been long awaited. Hern had planned to restart the driver's license service as soon as possible after moving back to the courthouse in early April. However, that was delayed more than a month due to technology issues as the county waited on the state to get the local office up and running.The problem stemmed from the fact that the state motor vehicle office does not do its own IT (information technology) work so the county had to wait until another state agency completed the work, Dickinson County Administrator Brad Homman told commissioners last week.The long-delayed opening was discussed during the May 12 county commission meeting after Commission Chairman Lynn Peterson said he had been contacted by county residents wanting to know when driver's license services would be available locally.“If you have a birthday coming up, you can’t change that. If your license is going to expire within the next month, you need to get that renewed,” Peterson said.Hern replied that she was hoping to have driver's license services available this week. She’s been telling people to call her office and staff will get them an appointment “right away.”By appointment onlyDriver’s license services are now available only by appointment. Hern said setting appointments works much better than taking walk-ins. People don’t have to wait and she can assign staff as needed to handle the driver's license portion of the office.The Dickinson County Treasurer’s department was unable to offer driver's license services during the 14-months the office was located in the Abilene Civic Center during the courthouse renovation. That was because dedicated driver's license lines had been installed at the courthouse to handle those transactions. It was not financially feasible to move and reinstall the lines at a temporary location and then move them back.Services offeredThe Dickinson County Treasurer’s office offers the following driver’s license services.●Kansas renewals●Renewal of ID cards●Issuance of duplicate Kansas licenses and●Making address changesFor more information about driver’s license or other services offered by the treasurer’s office call (785) 263-3231.

Driver’s license services now available in Dickinson County

A slow-moving system will bring persistent moderate to heavy rain over the region Monday night through Tuesday evening. 2-4 inches of rain is possible over part of south-central Kansas. Localized flooding is possible with this activity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653228873263.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceA slow-moving system will bring persistent moderate to heavy rain over the region Monday night through Tuesday evening. 2-4 inches of rain is possible over part of south-central Kansas. Localized flooding is possible with this activity.

Moderate to heavy rain expected Monday night into Tuesday

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

Building better beef. That’s one goal of an innovative Kansas entrepreneur who is using a unique breed of cattle and careful quality control to create a remarkable beef-eating experience for consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dave Dreiling is the founder and owner of Booth Creek Wagyu. As we have previously profiled, Dave is a successful entrepreneur who studied business at K-State. He met and married Kristen Spaeth. Dave founded GTM, the sportswear company, and also owns numerous restaurants.&nbsp;

In 2008, he bought a Pottawatomie County ranch, primarily for deer hunting. Through the years, he expanded the property, now known as Booth Creek Ranch. Meanwhile, Dareiling’s uncle raised greyhounds near Abilene and had started raising beef cattle as well, including some cows that had been bred to a bull from a Japanese breed known as Wagyu.&nbsp;

“We got some of this beef and fell in love with it,” Dreiling said. They found it to be especially tender and flavorful. Dreiling went to his uncle’s dispersal sale with the intention of buying one animal, but ended up purchasing four full-blood Wagyu and 28 Wagyu embryos. “My intent was to buy a few head to have great beef for family and friends,” he said.&nbsp;

The more Dreiling learned about Wagyu, the more he became convinced about the potential of the breed and the opportunities to upgrade beef consumption. “There aren’t a lot of Wagyu producers,” he said. “One was a cattle company in California that was shipping them to Kansas to be fed, and then shipping them back to be processed.”&nbsp;

“Kansas is a better place to raise cattle,” Dreiling said. “Why couldn’t we do this here, all the way through?”&nbsp;

So Booth Creek Wagyu became the basis for a vertically integrated beef production operation, from the genetics and production all the way to processing, sales, and distribution. This would assure quality control through the entire process.&nbsp;

They purchased a meat processing business, now known as MeatWorks, in Riley. In March 2022, they opened a Booth Creek Wagyu retail store and sampling kitchen in east Manhattan.&nbsp;

What makes Wagyu beef exceptional? “It’s all about the marbling, which contributes to taste and tenderness,” Dreiling said. “Then I stumbled on the health benefits. Most of the fat is unsaturated. Wagyu beef is higher in Omega 3s and 6s than salmon and is lower in cholesterol than chicken.”&nbsp;

“I’ve heard our store described as a jewelry store for beef because we offer lots of choices,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

Booth Creek Wagyu sells beef cuts at the Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, with the higher levels featuring higher amounts of marbling. USDA Prime beef is 8-12% IMF, while a Platinum full-blood Wagyu is 26% IMF or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;“That makes a rich steak so people might not eat as much of it,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

“Wagyu is like coffee these days – people have lots of different preferences. Some want dark roast, some want it lighter, and no one is wrong. Some (beef consumers) prefer more tenderness and some want less fat.”&nbsp;

He’s devised a camera system that takes an electronic image of each cut of meat, and the image is transmitted to Japan for grading. “We know where every steak comes from and how it grades,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

The Booth Creek Wagyu store includes a sampling kitchen so people can decide what level of marbling they prefer. “We want to help people dial in on what kind of beef they like,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

His intent is to build on the Manhattan store and open additional Wagyu stores and sampling kitchens across the region and the nation.&nbsp;

All of the store’s Wagyu beef originates at Booth Creek Ranch, located near the rural community of Olsburg, population 219 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.boothcreekwagyu.com/" target="_blank">www.boothcreekwagyu.com</a>.&nbsp;

Can beef be better? That’s become a passion for this Kansas entrepreneur. We commend Dave Dreiling and all those involved with Booth Creek Wagyu for making a difference with innovative production and marketing. We’re glad he’s making a business of building better beef.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623560862487.jpeg" alt="Ron Wilson. Photos courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson. Photos courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State UniversityBuilding better beef. That’s one goal of an innovative Kansas entrepreneur who is using a unique breed of cattle and careful quality control to create a remarkable beef-eating experience for consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dave Dreiling is the founder and owner of Booth Creek Wagyu. As we have previously profiled, Dave is a successful entrepreneur who studied business at K-State. He met and married Kristen Spaeth. Dave founded GTM, the sportswear company, and also owns numerous restaurants.&nbsp;In 2008, he bought a Pottawatomie County ranch, primarily for deer hunting. Through the years, he expanded the property, now known as Booth Creek Ranch. Meanwhile, Dareiling’s uncle raised greyhounds near Abilene and had started raising beef cattle as well, including some cows that had been bred to a bull from a Japanese breed known as Wagyu.&nbsp;“We got some of this beef and fell in love with it,” Dreiling said. They found it to be especially tender and flavorful. Dreiling went to his uncle’s dispersal sale with the intention of buying one animal, but ended up purchasing four full-blood Wagyu and 28 Wagyu embryos. “My intent was to buy a few head to have great beef for family and friends,” he said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653189068615.jpeg" alt="Dave Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Dave Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>The more Dreiling learned about Wagyu, the more he became convinced about the potential of the breed and the opportunities to upgrade beef consumption. “There aren’t a lot of Wagyu producers,” he said. “One was a cattle company in California that was shipping them to Kansas to be fed, and then shipping them back to be processed.”&nbsp;“Kansas is a better place to raise cattle,” Dreiling said. “Why couldn’t we do this here, all the way through?”&nbsp;So Booth Creek Wagyu became the basis for a vertically integrated beef production operation, from the genetics and production all the way to processing, sales, and distribution. This would assure quality control through the entire process.&nbsp;They purchased a meat processing business, now known as MeatWorks, in Riley. In March 2022, they opened a Booth Creek Wagyu retail store and sampling kitchen in east Manhattan.&nbsp;What makes Wagyu beef exceptional? “It’s all about the marbling, which contributes to taste and tenderness,” Dreiling said. “Then I stumbled on the health benefits. Most of the fat is unsaturated. Wagyu beef is higher in Omega 3s and 6s than salmon and is lower in cholesterol than chicken.”&nbsp;“I’ve heard our store described as a jewelry store for beef because we offer lots of choices,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;Booth Creek Wagyu sells beef cuts at the Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, with the higher levels featuring higher amounts of marbling. USDA Prime beef is 8-12% IMF, while a Platinum full-blood Wagyu is 26% IMF or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;“That makes a rich steak so people might not eat as much of it,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;“Wagyu is like coffee these days – people have lots of different preferences. Some want dark roast, some want it lighter, and no one is wrong. Some (beef consumers) prefer more tenderness and some want less fat.”&nbsp;He’s devised a camera system that takes an electronic image of each cut of meat, and the image is transmitted to Japan for grading. “We know where every steak comes from and how it grades,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;The Booth Creek Wagyu store includes a sampling kitchen so people can decide what level of marbling they prefer. “We want to help people dial in on what kind of beef they like,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;His intent is to build on the Manhattan store and open additional Wagyu stores and sampling kitchens across the region and the nation.&nbsp;All of the store’s Wagyu beef originates at Booth Creek Ranch, located near the rural community of Olsburg, population 219 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.boothcreekwagyu.com/" target="_blank">www.boothcreekwagyu.com</a>.&nbsp;Can beef be better? That’s become a passion for this Kansas entrepreneur. We commend Dave Dreiling and all those involved with Booth Creek Wagyu for making a difference with innovative production and marketing. We’re glad he’s making a business of building better beef.&nbsp;

NOW THAT'S RURAL: Dave Dreiling, Booth Creek Wagyu

Today is Sunday, May 22, the 142nd day of 2022. There are 223 days left in the year.

On May 22, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson, speaking at the University of Michigan, outlined the goals of his "Great Society," saying that it "rests on abundance and liberty for all" and "demands an end to poverty and racial injustice."

In 1939, the foreign ministers of Germany and Italy, Joachim von Ribbentrop and Galeazzo Ciano, signed a "Pact of Steel" committing the two countries to a military alliance.

In 1960, an earthquake of magnitude 9.5, the strongest ever measured, struck southern Chile, claiming some 1,655 lives.

In 1962, Continental Airlines Flight 11, en route from Chicago to Kansas City, Missouri, crashed after a bomb apparently brought on board by a passenger exploded, killing all 45 occupants of the Boeing 707.

In 1967, a fire at the L'Innovation department store in Brussels killed 322 people. Poet and playwright Langston Hughes died in New York at age 65.

In 1968, the nuclear-powered submarine USS Scorpion, with 99 men aboard, sank in the Atlantic Ocean. (The remains of the sub were later found on the ocean floor 400 miles southwest of the Azores.)

In 1969, the lunar module of Apollo 10, with Thomas P. Stafford and Eugene Cernan aboard, flew to within nine miles of the moon's surface in a dress rehearsal for the first lunar landing.

In 1985, U.S. sailor Michael L. Walker was arrested aboard the aircraft carrier Nimitz, two days after his father, John A. Walker Jr., was apprehended; both were later convicted of spying for the Soviet Union. (Michael Walker served 15 years in prison and was released in 2000.)

In 1992, after a reign lasting nearly 30 years, Johnny Carson hosted NBC's "Tonight Show" for the final time. (Jay Leno took over as host three days later.)

In 2006, The Department of Veterans Affairs said personal data, including Social Security numbers of 26.5 million U.S. veterans, was stolen from a VA employee after he took the information home without authorization.

In 2011, a tornado devastated Joplin, Missouri, with winds up to 250 mph, claiming at least 159 lives and destroying about 8,000 homes and businesses.

In 2018, Stacey Abrams won Georgia's Democratic gubernatorial primary, making her the first woman nominee for Georgia governor from either major party. (Abrams, seeking to become the nation's first Black female governor, was defeated by Republican Brian Kemp.)

In 2020, "Full House" star Lori Loughlin and her fashion designer husband, Mossimo Giannulli, pleaded guilty to paying half a million dollars into the University of Southern California as part of a college admissions bribery scheme. (Loughlin would spend two months behind bars; Giannulli began a five-month sentence in November 2020 and was released to home confinement in April 2021.)

Ten years ago: The Falcon 9, built by billionaire businessman Elon Musk, sped toward the International Space Station with a load of groceries and other supplies, marking the first time a commercial spacecraft had been sent to the orbiting outpost. Wesley A. Brown, the first African-American to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, died in Silver Spring, Maryland, at age 85.

Five years ago: A suicide bomber set off an improvised explosive device that killed 22 people at the end of an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England. In a historic gesture, President Donald Trump solemnly placed a note in the ancient stones of Jerusalem's Western Wall. Ford Motor Co. announced it was replacing CEO Mark Fields. Actor Dina Merrill, 93, died at her home in East Hampton, New York.

One year ago: Virgin Galactic made its first rocket-powered flight from New Mexico to the fringe of space in a manned shuttle, a step toward offering tourist flights to the edge of the Earth's atmosphere. An expert climbing guide said a coronavirus outbreak on Mount Everest had infected at least 100 climbers and support staff; officials in Nepal had denied that there was a COVID-19 cluster on the world's highest peak.

Today's Birthdays: Conductor Peter Nero is 88. Actor-director Richard Benjamin is 84. Actor Frank Converse is 84. Former CNN anchor Bernard Shaw is 82. Actor Barbara Parkins is 80. Retired MLB All-Star pitcher Tommy John is 79. Songwriter Bernie Taupin is 72. Actor-producer Al Corley is 67. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, is 65. Singer Morrissey is 63. Actor Ann Cusack is 61. Country musician Dana Williams (Diamond Rio) is 61. Rock musician Jesse Valenzuela is 60. Actor Mark Christopher Lawrence is 58. R&amp;B singer Johnny Gill (New Edition) is 56. Rock musician Dan Roberts (Crash Test Dummies) is 55. Actor Brooke Smith is 55. Actor Michael Kelly is 53. Model Naomi Campbell is 52. Actor Anna Belknap is 50. Actor Alison Eastwood is 50. Singer Donell Jones is 49. Actor Sean Gunn is 48. Actor A.J. Langer is 48. Actor Ginnifer Goodwin is 44. R&amp;B singer Vivian Green is 43. Actor Maggie Q is 43. Olympic gold medal speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno is 40. Actor Molly Ephraim (TV: "Last Man Standing") is 36. Tennis player Novak Djokovic is 35. Actor Anna Baryshnikov (TV: "Superior Donuts") is 30. Actor Camren Bicondova is 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Sunday, May 22, the 142nd day of 2022. There are 223 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On May 22, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson, speaking at the University of Michigan, outlined the goals of his "Great Society," saying that it "rests on abundance and liberty for all" and "demands an end to poverty and racial injustice."On this date:In 1939, the foreign ministers of Germany and Italy, Joachim von Ribbentrop and Galeazzo Ciano, signed a "Pact of Steel" committing the two countries to a military alliance.In 1960, an earthquake of magnitude 9.5, the strongest ever measured, struck southern Chile, claiming some 1,655 lives.In 1962, Continental Airlines Flight 11, en route from Chicago to Kansas City, Missouri, crashed after a bomb apparently brought on board by a passenger exploded, killing all 45 occupants of the Boeing 707.In 1967, a fire at the L'Innovation department store in Brussels killed 322 people. Poet and playwright Langston Hughes died in New York at age 65.In 1968, the nuclear-powered submarine USS Scorpion, with 99 men aboard, sank in the Atlantic Ocean. (The remains of the sub were later found on the ocean floor 400 miles southwest of the Azores.)In 1969, the lunar module of Apollo 10, with Thomas P. Stafford and Eugene Cernan aboard, flew to within nine miles of the moon's surface in a dress rehearsal for the first lunar landing.In 1985, U.S. sailor Michael L. Walker was arrested aboard the aircraft carrier Nimitz, two days after his father, John A. Walker Jr., was apprehended; both were later convicted of spying for the Soviet Union. (Michael Walker served 15 years in prison and was released in 2000.)In 1992, after a reign lasting nearly 30 years, Johnny Carson hosted NBC's "Tonight Show" for the final time. (Jay Leno took over as host three days later.)In 2006, The Department of Veterans Affairs said personal data, including Social Security numbers of 26.5 million U.S. veterans, was stolen from a VA employee after he took the information home without authorization.In 2011, a tornado devastated Joplin, Missouri, with winds up to 250 mph, claiming at least 159 lives and destroying about 8,000 homes and businesses.In 2018, Stacey Abrams won Georgia's Democratic gubernatorial primary, making her the first woman nominee for Georgia governor from either major party. (Abrams, seeking to become the nation's first Black female governor, was defeated by Republican Brian Kemp.)In 2020, "Full House" star Lori Loughlin and her fashion designer husband, Mossimo Giannulli, pleaded guilty to paying half a million dollars into the University of Southern California as part of a college admissions bribery scheme. (Loughlin would spend two months behind bars; Giannulli began a five-month sentence in November 2020 and was released to home confinement in April 2021.)Ten years ago: The Falcon 9, built by billionaire businessman Elon Musk, sped toward the International Space Station with a load of groceries and other supplies, marking the first time a commercial spacecraft had been sent to the orbiting outpost. Wesley A. Brown, the first African-American to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, died in Silver Spring, Maryland, at age 85.Five years ago: A suicide bomber set off an improvised explosive device that killed 22 people at the end of an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England. In a historic gesture, President Donald Trump solemnly placed a note in the ancient stones of Jerusalem's Western Wall. Ford Motor Co. announced it was replacing CEO Mark Fields. Actor Dina Merrill, 93, died at her home in East Hampton, New York.One year ago: Virgin Galactic made its first rocket-powered flight from New Mexico to the fringe of space in a manned shuttle, a step toward offering tourist flights to the edge of the Earth's atmosphere. An expert climbing guide said a coronavirus outbreak on Mount Everest had infected at least 100 climbers and support staff; officials in Nepal had denied that there was a COVID-19 cluster on the world's highest peak.Today's Birthdays: Conductor Peter Nero is 88. Actor-director Richard Benjamin is 84. Actor Frank Converse is 84. Former CNN anchor Bernard Shaw is 82. Actor Barbara Parkins is 80. Retired MLB All-Star pitcher Tommy John is 79. Songwriter Bernie Taupin is 72. Actor-producer Al Corley is 67. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, is 65. Singer Morrissey is 63. Actor Ann Cusack is 61. Country musician Dana Williams (Diamond Rio) is 61. Rock musician Jesse Valenzuela is 60. Actor Mark Christopher Lawrence is 58. R&amp;B singer Johnny Gill (New Edition) is 56. Rock musician Dan Roberts (Crash Test Dummies) is 55. Actor Brooke Smith is 55. Actor Michael Kelly is 53. Model Naomi Campbell is 52. Actor Anna Belknap is 50. Actor Alison Eastwood is 50. Singer Donell Jones is 49. Actor Sean Gunn is 48. Actor A.J. Langer is 48. Actor Ginnifer Goodwin is 44. R&amp;B singer Vivian Green is 43. Actor Maggie Q is 43. Olympic gold medal speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno is 40. Actor Molly Ephraim (TV: "Last Man Standing") is 36. Tennis player Novak Djokovic is 35. Actor Anna Baryshnikov (TV: "Superior Donuts") is 30. Actor Camren Bicondova is 23.

Today in History - May 22

LINCOLN, Neb. - The University of Nebraska-Lincoln conferred a record 3,612 degrees during commencement exercises May 13 and 14.

The 3,523 graduates are from 58 countries; 45 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico; and more than 250 Nebraska communities.

Jay Keasling, Philomathia Professor of Alternative Energy at the University of California, Berkeley, and a Husker alumnus, delivered the undergraduate commencement address May 14 at Memorial Stadium. He also received an honorary Doctor of Science during the undergraduate ceremony. Terry L. Fairfield, former president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation, received the Nebraska Builder Award for exceptional service to the state and university during the ceremony.

Marco Barker, vice chancellor for diversity and inclusion at Nebraska, gave the address at the graduate and professional degree ceremony May 13 at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Sara Howard, policy adviser for First Five Nebraska and former state senator, spoke to the law graduates May 14 at the Lied Center for Performing Arts.

In addition, graduates from 2020 and 2021 who were unable to attend their ceremonies were celebrated. More than 20 returned to be recognized.

Following is a list of area graduates by hometown, with their college(s) and degree(s).

Payton Kathleen Bergkamp, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts with high distinction.

William Keith Hayes, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Bachelor of Arts.

Colin James Truhe, Graduate Studies, Master of Arts.

For the full list of May graduates, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/32IxTgwFGaalFTsuZasCITgFSes8EfAJApgMpp-swRrav4brDYo-NonGvNyGxTz-/3m3/UNAHtvKMRYqKO5XGFtcAog/h0/ZqbNo10zxb-NH4LsUknVBk21pxGPl8wp6cECi9D2AiY" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/grads-may22</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. - The University of Nebraska-Lincoln conferred a record 3,612 degrees during commencement exercises May 13 and 14.The 3,523 graduates are from 58 countries; 45 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico; and more than 250 Nebraska communities.Jay Keasling, Philomathia Professor of Alternative Energy at the University of California, Berkeley, and a Husker alumnus, delivered the undergraduate commencement address May 14 at Memorial Stadium. He also received an honorary Doctor of Science during the undergraduate ceremony. Terry L. Fairfield, former president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation, received the Nebraska Builder Award for exceptional service to the state and university during the ceremony.Marco Barker, vice chancellor for diversity and inclusion at Nebraska, gave the address at the graduate and professional degree ceremony May 13 at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Sara Howard, policy adviser for First Five Nebraska and former state senator, spoke to the law graduates May 14 at the Lied Center for Performing Arts.In addition, graduates from 2020 and 2021 who were unable to attend their ceremonies were celebrated. More than 20 returned to be recognized.Following is a list of area graduates by hometown, with their college(s) and degree(s).SalinaPayton Kathleen Bergkamp, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts with high distinction.William Keith Hayes, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Bachelor of Arts.Colin James Truhe, Graduate Studies, Master of Arts.For the full list of May graduates, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/32IxTgwFGaalFTsuZasCITgFSes8EfAJApgMpp-swRrav4brDYo-NonGvNyGxTz-/3m3/UNAHtvKMRYqKO5XGFtcAog/h0/ZqbNo10zxb-NH4LsUknVBk21pxGPl8wp6cECi9D2AiY" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/grads-may22</a>.

Salina students graduate from University of Nebraska

Sargent Drilling is now accepting applications for a Pump Setter/Laborer.

· Experience is preferred but will train the right person.

· Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to obtain a CDL license.

· Overnight travel is required at times.

· Benefits include: health and life insurance, 401 (K), and paid vacation.

To inquire more information about this position, please call 785-829-0963. Pre-employment drug test, physical and a driving record review are all required. Sargent Drilling is an equal opportunity employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652469052172.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sargent Drilling is now accepting applications for a Pump Setter/Laborer.· Experience is preferred but will train the right person.· Salary is based on experience.· Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to obtain a CDL license.· Overnight travel is required at times.· Benefits include: health and life insurance, 401 (K), and paid vacation.To inquire more information about this position, please call 785-829-0963. Pre-employment drug test, physical and a driving record review are all required. Sargent Drilling is an equal opportunity employer.

Central Thespian Troupe 639 hosts Curtain Call Awards, induction

McPHERSON – Amanda Gutierrez has been named executive vice president and provost of&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;College. She has worked at&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;College for more than 16 years. Her most recent role has been vice president for automotive restoration, a position she has held since 2012.

Gutierrez began her career with the college in 1995 when she served as director of annual giving. After a brief hiatus to start a family, she served on the board of trustees from 2006 to 2009. She returned to campus to lead the advancement team and quickly set herself apart as a fundraiser connecting with key automotive industry partners. The vice president for automotive restoration position was created based on the potential she identified for student opportunities and industry support in the field.

“Under Amanda’s leadership, the automotive restoration program has become a center of excellence in the industry with record enrollment, substantial fundraising increases, and a bold vision to elevate the academic experience,” President Michael Schneider said. “She will bring considerable experience and thoughtful insight to her new role and help lead growth initiatives for the entire campus.”

The position aligns with goals set in the college’s&nbsp;Community by Design&nbsp;strategic plan that calls for nurturing entrepreneurial faculty and developing attractive academic programs modeled after recent successes in automotive restoration.

“With initiatives like the Student Debt Project and new academic programs like health sciences,&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;College is poised for significant growth in the next several years and I am happy to bring what I have learned from the automotive restoration program to facilitate growth across campus,” Gutierrez said. “I value the culture and community of our faculty and campus community and look forward to our work together as we set a course for the future of the college.”

As executive vice president and provost, Gutierrez will provide administrative leadership for academics, the registrar’s office, compliance and institutional research, and academic support services. She will supervise the health science and automotive restoration programs. While transitioning into her new role, Gutierrez is also directing the search for a new vice president of academic affairs. The new VPAA will replace Bruce Clary, who is retiring after 39 years with the college on July 1, 2022.

“I have been working closely with Bruce Clary for more than a year and have learned a great deal from him,” Gutierrez said. “He has been an inspiring leader for the faculty for many years and our academic programs have flourished under his leadership. Our work moving forward honors his legacy.”

Gutierrez will continue to spend a portion of her time working with the automotive restoration program to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership sometime in the next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653177699633.jpeg" alt="Amanda Gutierrez. Photo courtesy McPherson College" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Gutierrez. Photo courtesy McPherson College</figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON – Amanda Gutierrez has been named executive vice president and provost of&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;College. She has worked at&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;College for more than 16 years. Her most recent role has been vice president for automotive restoration, a position she has held since 2012.Gutierrez began her career with the college in 1995 when she served as director of annual giving. After a brief hiatus to start a family, she served on the board of trustees from 2006 to 2009. She returned to campus to lead the advancement team and quickly set herself apart as a fundraiser connecting with key automotive industry partners. The vice president for automotive restoration position was created based on the potential she identified for student opportunities and industry support in the field.“Under Amanda’s leadership, the automotive restoration program has become a center of excellence in the industry with record enrollment, substantial fundraising increases, and a bold vision to elevate the academic experience,” President Michael Schneider said. “She will bring considerable experience and thoughtful insight to her new role and help lead growth initiatives for the entire campus.”The position aligns with goals set in the college’s&nbsp;Community by Design&nbsp;strategic plan that calls for nurturing entrepreneurial faculty and developing attractive academic programs modeled after recent successes in automotive restoration.“With initiatives like the Student Debt Project and new academic programs like health sciences,&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;College is poised for significant growth in the next several years and I am happy to bring what I have learned from the automotive restoration program to facilitate growth across campus,” Gutierrez said. “I value the culture and community of our faculty and campus community and look forward to our work together as we set a course for the future of the college.”As executive vice president and provost, Gutierrez will provide administrative leadership for academics, the registrar’s office, compliance and institutional research, and academic support services. She will supervise the health science and automotive restoration programs. While transitioning into her new role, Gutierrez is also directing the search for a new vice president of academic affairs. The new VPAA will replace Bruce Clary, who is retiring after 39 years with the college on July 1, 2022.“I have been working closely with Bruce Clary for more than a year and have learned a great deal from him,” Gutierrez said. “He has been an inspiring leader for the faculty for many years and our academic programs have flourished under his leadership. Our work moving forward honors his legacy.”Gutierrez will continue to spend a portion of her time working with the automotive restoration program to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership sometime in the next year.

McPherson College names Gutierrez executive vice president, provost

SEWARD, Neb. - On May 7, Concordia University, Nebraska awarded undergraduate and graduate degrees to more than 400 graduates. 

The following students were among those who graduated:

Jenna Fredrickson of Concordia, Kan., B.Mus. and Lutheran Teachers Diploma

Broderick Schofield of Sylvan Grove, Kan., B.S.Ed.

At the ceremony, Concordia President Dr. Bernard Bull encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities with a combination of boldness and humility while using their gifts, talents and abilities to serve God and others. He reminded students to heed God's call to learn and lead in the church and in the world, always seeking to serve with wisdom, clarity of conviction and character.

"Graduates, you are a blessing from God. Even as so many have sought to invest in your education and faith formation these past years, you have blessed the Concordia community, and now you will embark on what God has in store for you next," said Bull. "You are now and forever will be a Concordian, one who takes what you have learned in the classrooms, courts, fields, chapel, and beyond and uses all of that to be a blessing to those around you."

Dr. Kurt Senske, founder and principal of CEO-Board Services and 2022 recipient of a Concordia University, Nebraska doctor of laws degree, presented the commencement address.

"We as Christians have a unique advantage," said Senske. "We come to the starting line with a head start. Thisis the value of a Christ-infused university education and living a Christ-filled life. Being a Christian allows us to look beyond our ego. It compels us to go beyond ourselves. It is the force behind what we do. It defines who we are. It provides our life with worth and meaning."

Senske encouraged graduates to keep Christ at the center of their lives, setting aside prevalent worldly messages and influences often found on social media and elsewhere.

"With Christ in the center of our life, with us secure in the knowledge that our story eternally will never end, the pressure is off," he added. "We are no longer constrained to be merely be successful in this life. Instead, we have the privilege of being called to be faithful."

Senske reminded graduates that times of suffering, hardship and disappointment are God-given opportunities to discover new purpose in life. He also pointed out that how we live each day and not what we do is what truly matters.

"As Christians we are free to embrace the immense power that we receive when we become bold in our faith and actions," said Senske. "I believe in the power of Concordia University. I believe in the power of each of you as graduates. I believe in the power of each one of us. Individually and collectively - beginning today - you, we, I, have the God-given opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those we serve via our community, family, and profession."

About Concordia University, Nebraska

Concordia University, Nebraska, founded in 1894, is a fully accredited, coeducational university located in Seward, Nebraska, which currently serves more than 2,500 students. Concordia offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in an excellent academic and Christ-centered community that equips men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership in the church and world. For more information, visit&nbsp;cune.edu.

SEWARD, Neb. - On May 7, Concordia University, Nebraska awarded undergraduate and graduate degrees to more than 400 graduates. The following students were among those who graduated:Caydren Cox of Beloit, Kan., B.S.Jenna Fredrickson of Concordia, Kan., B.Mus. and Lutheran Teachers DiplomaBroderick Schofield of Sylvan Grove, Kan., B.S.Ed.Logan Srna of Culver, Kan., B.S.At the ceremony, Concordia President Dr. Bernard Bull encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities with a combination of boldness and humility while using their gifts, talents and abilities to serve God and others. He reminded students to heed God's call to learn and lead in the church and in the world, always seeking to serve with wisdom, clarity of conviction and character."Graduates, you are a blessing from God. Even as so many have sought to invest in your education and faith formation these past years, you have blessed the Concordia community, and now you will embark on what God has in store for you next," said Bull. "You are now and forever will be a Concordian, one who takes what you have learned in the classrooms, courts, fields, chapel, and beyond and uses all of that to be a blessing to those around you."Dr. Kurt Senske, founder and principal of CEO-Board Services and 2022 recipient of a Concordia University, Nebraska doctor of laws degree, presented the commencement address."We as Christians have a unique advantage," said Senske. "We come to the starting line with a head start. Thisis the value of a Christ-infused university education and living a Christ-filled life. Being a Christian allows us to look beyond our ego. It compels us to go beyond ourselves. It is the force behind what we do. It defines who we are. It provides our life with worth and meaning."Senske encouraged graduates to keep Christ at the center of their lives, setting aside prevalent worldly messages and influences often found on social media and elsewhere."With Christ in the center of our life, with us secure in the knowledge that our story eternally will never end, the pressure is off," he added. "We are no longer constrained to be merely be successful in this life. Instead, we have the privilege of being called to be faithful."Senske reminded graduates that times of suffering, hardship and disappointment are God-given opportunities to discover new purpose in life. He also pointed out that how we live each day and not what we do is what truly matters."As Christians we are free to embrace the immense power that we receive when we become bold in our faith and actions," said Senske. "I believe in the power of Concordia University. I believe in the power of each of you as graduates. I believe in the power of each one of us. Individually and collectively - beginning today - you, we, I, have the God-given opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those we serve via our community, family, and profession."About Concordia University, NebraskaConcordia University, Nebraska, founded in 1894, is a fully accredited, coeducational university located in Seward, Nebraska, which currently serves more than 2,500 students. Concordia offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in an excellent academic and Christ-centered community that equips men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership in the church and world. For more information, visit&nbsp;cune.edu.

Area students earn degrees from Concordia University

Kansas Wesleyan University has announced the hiring of Jean Kozubowski, long-time Salina Journal copy editor, as its new assistant director of marketing and communications. Kozubowski began her duties with the award-winning office in early April.

“We are excited to have Jean join us,” said Brad Salois, director of marketing and communications. “We firmly believe that she’s the right person to help carry on the great work our office has produced these last two years, and we look forward to seeing her unique approach lift us to even greater heights.”

Kozubowski spent 16 years at the Salina Journal, where she was a copy editor, page designer and reporter. She covered local government and features, and her front page design for Nov. 11, 2016 was recognized by Newseum as one of the country’s top-10 front pages for the day. Prior to the Journal, she was the deputy assistant managing editor of design at the Hutchinson News, where she supervised the six-person editing and design desk, among her other responsibilities.&nbsp;

Kozubowski earned her master’s from the University of Kansas’ journalism school and her bachelor’s in English from St. Bonaventure University.

She replaces Karen Bonar, who resigned her position April 1 to become publisher of the Ellsworth Independent-Reporter, the Marquette Tribune and The Magazine, a regional publication based in Salina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653176111144.jpeg" alt="Jean Kozubowski. Photo courtesy KWU" />
 <figcaption>Jean Kozubowski. Photo courtesy KWU</figcaption>
 </figure>KWUKansas Wesleyan University has announced the hiring of Jean Kozubowski, long-time Salina Journal copy editor, as its new assistant director of marketing and communications. Kozubowski began her duties with the award-winning office in early April.“We are excited to have Jean join us,” said Brad Salois, director of marketing and communications. “We firmly believe that she’s the right person to help carry on the great work our office has produced these last two years, and we look forward to seeing her unique approach lift us to even greater heights.”Kozubowski spent 16 years at the Salina Journal, where she was a copy editor, page designer and reporter. She covered local government and features, and her front page design for Nov. 11, 2016 was recognized by Newseum as one of the country’s top-10 front pages for the day. Prior to the Journal, she was the deputy assistant managing editor of design at the Hutchinson News, where she supervised the six-person editing and design desk, among her other responsibilities.&nbsp;Kozubowski earned her master’s from the University of Kansas’ journalism school and her bachelor’s in English from St. Bonaventure University.She replaces Karen Bonar, who resigned her position April 1 to become publisher of the Ellsworth Independent-Reporter, the Marquette Tribune and The Magazine, a regional publication based in Salina.

Kozubowski joins KWU marketing and communications staff

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BankofTescott">Bank of Tescott Facebook page</a>:

Please help us in congratulating these employees on their recent promotions! We appreciate their hard work and dedication not only to their departments and fellow employees, but to our customers as well!

Thank you Rachel, Mary, Travis, Cindy, Jessica and Nancy!

Not pictured: Nancy Cone, Senior Vice President

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BankofTescott">Bank of Tescott Facebook page</a>:Please help us in congratulating these employees on their recent promotions! We appreciate their hard work and dedication not only to their departments and fellow employees, but to our customers as well!Thank you Rachel, Mary, Travis, Cindy, Jessica and Nancy! Not pictured: Nancy Cone, Senior Vice President The Bank of Tescott | Member FDICCommitted To Those We Serve<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653174823517.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Bank of Tescott announces promotions

Salina South held its annual S.T.A.R. Night (South Theatre Award Recognition) on May 1.&nbsp; The following students received awards.

Best Supporting Actress –&nbsp; Emily Streeter, Mia White

Best Supporting Actor –&nbsp; Evan Dickson, Thomas Moyer

Salina South TheatreSalina South held its annual S.T.A.R. Night (South Theatre Award Recognition) on May 1.&nbsp; The following students received awards.Best Actress –&nbsp; Kaydence DicksonBest Actor –&nbsp; Aidan HeusmanBest Supporting Actress –&nbsp; Emily Streeter, Mia WhiteBest Supporting Actor –&nbsp; Evan Dickson, Thomas MoyerBest “A Bit More” Part –&nbsp; Kirsten LamiaBest Bit Part – The ‘Gossips’ from&nbsp;Sense &amp; SensibilityDavid L. Webber Technical Theatre Award – Shelby Stolzenburg, Malina Szyndlar, Cameron Preble&nbsp;&nbsp;The Jellybean Award (Theatre of Kindness) – Ethen Lainer, Shelby Stolzenburg, Yesenia TorresMarc Malone Musical Theatre Award – Mia Dennett, Thomas MoyerThroughout the school year, Drama Club members vote on T.O.M. winners (Thespian&nbsp;Of the&nbsp;Month).&nbsp; This year, the following students have won T.O.M. awards:August – Reese Kimmi, Yesenia TorresSeptember – Ethen Lainer, Malina SzyndlarOctober –&nbsp; Mia Dennett, Shelby StolzenburgNovember –&nbsp; Aubrey Powell, Jackie Fischer, Emily StreeterDecember –&nbsp; Kaydence Dickson, Megan GraffJanuary –&nbsp; Aidan Heusman, Cameron PrebleFebruary –&nbsp; Kara Davis, Evan Dickson, Victoria MolinaMarch –&nbsp; Rhett Corbett, Thomas MoyerApril –&nbsp; Destiny Hamilton, Elyza SearcyDRAMA CLUB OFFICERS &amp; REPRESENTATIVES – 2021-22Co-Presidents – Mia Dennett, Kaydence DicksonCo-Vice-Presidents – Shelby Stolzenburg, Yesenia TorresOfficer Board:Evan Dickson, Ethen Lainer, Victoria Molina, Malina Szyndlar, Aidan Heusman, Aubrey Powell, Emily Streeter, Reese Kimmi, Megan Graff, Destiny Hamilton, and Mia White.South High School students were also chosen to serve on the Kansas Thespian State Board – a select group of students who help organize the State Conference.&nbsp; South High’s representatives for the 2022 conference were Mia Dennett and Malina Szyndlar.