BarebackriderGarrettShadbolt of Merriman had his 2026 campaign to return to the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas off to a strong start, but he was sidelined last week for several months because he needed surgery to repair a hip problem that he said had been nagging him the past year.

VALENTINE, NE — The Sand Painters Art Club and Valentine Public Library are the proud hosts of the Association of Nebraska Art Clubs (ANAC) Travel Show throughout the month of February. The exhibit showcases a premier selection of artwork from across the state, bringing Nebraska’s finest creative talents to the Sandhills. Leading the exhibition is local artist and Sand Painter Art Club member David Dorsey, who earned the prestigious Best of Show award for his acrylic painting, Barn Swallow.

2026 Ainsworth Invite Results for Valentine 106 - Brayden Stec (10-7) placed 4th and scored 10.5 team points. Champ.

2026 Ainsworth Girls Invite results for Valentine Girls The girls earned first place at the Ainsworth Invite!! Fun Fact : First ever team title for girls wrestling in Valentine! 100 - Reegan Eggert (24-15) placed 1st and scored 20.0 team points. Quarterfinal - Reegan Eggert of Valentine won by fall over Maya Macias of Ainsworth, 11-21,Fall 0:44.

Valentine, NE – The Chesterman Foundation, the charitable arm of Chesterman Coca-Cola, has expanded its community giving this year to strengthen the local communities where its employees live and work. As part of this initiative, the Chesterman Foundation has awarded a $2,500 donation to the Sandhills Area Foundation.

The Heart City Heart Award was presented to Steve Isom, Sunday, February 1, 2026 during the 82nd annual Coronation. Congratulations Steve! The nomination read: Tonight, we get to recognize someone who truly shows what it means to have a big heart for our community.