News

For decades, the beating heart of the Nebraska Sandhills could be found on the lower floor of a split-level home in Hyannis, where Sharon M. Wheelock tirelessly pieced together the Grant County News. With the recent passing of Wheelock on May 20, 2026, the community mourns not only the loss of a devoted mother and friend but also the loss of a fierce champion for rural journalism who became the defining voice of “Sandhills Cattle Country.”

Times were different, laws were written for and by white men, but the 1862 Homestead Act was an oddity. In the middle of a grueling Civil War where the North had just lost several significant battles.

Lincoln, NE, May 14, 2026 - May is National Historic Preservation Month in Nebraska. “It is important to celebrate the role of history in our lives, especially this year during the celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Governor Jim Pillen as he signed a proclamation declaring National Preservation Month in Nebraska.

The Heart City Theater Board hasbeenholdingmonthlymeetings as efforts continue to reopen the theater as soon as possible for the community’s enjoyment. Community support over the past year and a half has been greatly appreciated. Through local and statewide grants, a drive-in movie night, and a telethon, the board has raised $650,000 toward its $800,000 goal.

VALENTINE, NE – The Niobrara National Scenic River, in partnership with the Friends of the Niobrara, will host a community river and road clean up on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Volunteers are invited to help care for the Niobrara River and surrounding roadways as the park approaches its 35th anniversary on May 24.

have we left out? As kindergarteners, we walked in a single file line probably thinking, “I can’t wait to be a big kid.” As we moved into third grade we talked amongst ourselves saying, “I can’t wait to switch classes during the day.” Soon we were done with elementary school, excitedly discussing our locker combinations for the upcoming year saying, “I can’t wait for middle school.” The months approaching middle school were filled with “I can’t wait.” A promise land of gum chewing, salt and pepper in the cafeteria, and “more freedom.” After about a semester, I think we all realized middle school was actually going to be some of the most awkward years of our lives. Unfortunately there is definitely photo evidence to back that up.

Cody Kilgore Unified Schools held their commencement exercises Saturday, May 16, at 10:00 a.m. MST.

Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is opening up added grazing opportunities fortheupcomingspring and summer season through its cooperative agriculture program. The available pasture units range from approximately 100 to 500 acres and are located on refuge property south of Valentine, Nebraska.

News of Asian jumping worms spreading in Colorado has raised growing concern for neighboring regions - including the Nebraska Sandhills - where the health of the land depends on a delicate balance beneath the surface. These socalled “crazy worms” may be small, but their impact is anything but.

Bull season is in full swing. Semen testing bulls isn’t just a routine check - it’s a critical step in ensuring fertility and protecting your bottom line. Your bull battery is one of the biggest investments you have in your ranch. An infertile bull can push off his competition leaving an entire group open if he is the dominant male. It is better to know your bulls are sound than assuming they are good because we all know what assuming leads to.