News

APRIL 17, 2026 LINCOLN, NE — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol removed 20 impaired drivers from the road during a special enforcement effort last weekend. The Put the Phone Away or Pay campaign coincides with Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

There were no arrests reported last week. During the week of April 12 -18, the Police Department responded to 26 calls for service, including: • 2 traffic stops • 2 non-injury accidents • 1 harassment complaint • 1 welfare check • 1 criminal mischief/vandalism • 1 suspicious person or vehicle complaint.

It seems amazing that one of my first articles for local outreach was a year ago almost to the very day. Our topic then was transportation funding and here we are again or should I say still? The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced this past week that it is partnering with the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research to conduct a study of the intercity bus services available in Nebraska.

The 3 Nails Community Bike Shop at First Baptist Church will reopen for its fourth season on Saturday, May 2. The public is invited to stop by for a free hot dog and chips.

The Living Christ Family parishioners gathered for a Passover Seder following the Holy Thursday Mass April 2, 2026. Organized and prepared by Kristy Opela from The Evangelist St. John Parish in Stapleton, NE, the guests sat at one of three beautifully set tables. Kristy developed the celebration based on the Jewish feast but added the experience of Christian faith and worship. The Seder is a beautiful reminder that our faith is rooted in the story of Israel, and that the Last Supper itself was a Seder meal.

VALENTINE,NE,March,2026– Local dentist Dr. Kelly Anderson, DDS, FAGD is helping Valentine residents get a more restful night’s sleep. Dr. Kelly of Sandhills Family Dental was recently designated as a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM). The ABDSM is the leading national testing organization for dentists who treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. Earning Diplomate status from the ABDSM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in dental sleep medicine.

The American Legion will host a benefit hamburger feed at the Vets Club on April 17 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event is a free-will donation, with Modern Woodmen of America matching contributions up to $2,500.

VALENTINE, Neb. – Niobrara National Scenic River is welcoming summer with a full schedule of public events, including Fishing Clinics, Night Sky programs, river- focused programs, and special events celebrating both America’s 250th anniversary and the 35th anniversary of Niobrara National Scenic River’s designation on May 24, 1991.

Registration is open for the Nebraska Birding Bowl, a friendly competition to observe as many bird species as possible while supporting wildlife conservation. All birders are welcome.

The Sand Painters Art Club’s yearly selection show is on display throughout the month of April at the Valentine Public Library. Residents and visitors alike are invited to experience a diverse display of artwork created by local artists.