Aubrey Benson and Samantha Sprenger, two seniors from Valentine High School, along with seven teachers from the local communities organized an impactful event on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, called An Intro to Life. This event was for all the sophomores from the following schools: Ainsworth, Thedford, Keya Paha, Rock County, Cody-Kilgore, and Valentine. The seven teachers included: Juli Murphy, Tricia Anderson, Misty Downing, Liz Ravenscroft, Jamie Taylor, Alana Cardinal, and Janet Shelbourn. The group ended up with over 50 volunteers for this event to serve the 100+ students.

There’s something extra special about Christmastime in the Sandhills - maybe it’s the slower pace, the neighborly waves, or the way the winter sun hits Main Street just right. Whatever it is, Santa must feel it too, because this weekend he settled in for a relaxed afternoon visit right in the heart of town. From the comfort of his sleigh, with his loyal reindeer nibbling on hay nearby, he greeted families as they stopped by throughout the afternoon.

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As the bucket lifted into the crisp November air, the City of Valentine maintenance crew got to work hanging Christmas decorations along Main Street. One by one, the familiar decorations were fastened into place - small but meaningful touches that brighten both the streets and the spirits of everyone who passes through.

Cherry Hills Estates Assisted Living and Independent Senior Apartments Veterans Day Program honored all past and present veterans before a large crowd of residents and visitors. Pianist, Yvonne Hollenbeck played the Star Spangled Banner to open the ceremony followed by the introduction of the veterans in attendance.

As Thanksgiving celebrations are being planned, many of the area’s residents are gearing up for their holiday and Christmas activities. It is a good time to reflect on our fortune,s and those of the people around us. The holidays are a time for giving thanks and showing kindness to others. The Salvation Army is dedicated to helping those in need and is asking for community volunteers to ring the red kettle bell this holiday season. Last year, roughly 20 or so local community members and organizations volunteered to stand outside, braving biting winds and chilling temperatures to ring bells asking for donations. Since the Salvation Army first began collecting donations in kettles in the late 1800s, the organization has relied on volunteers to do the bulk of its bell ringing.