News

The 2025 Cherry County Friends of 4-H were honored at the Fair. Friends of 4-H are nominated each year to recognize exemplary volunteer or business service to the Cherry County 4-H program. Jason McNare has coached shooting sports for several years and received the Individual award.

Valentine, NE (9/4/2025) — Many people want to give back to the community but may not have a lot of time to volunteer. In only about an hour, volunteer blood donors can help save lives and feel instant gratification.

VALENTINE, NE – National Park Service rangers at the Niobrara National Scenic River announce the upcoming Voices of the Niobrara speaker series, a month-long event celebrating the rich history and diverse voices of the Niobrara River Valley. This series will feature presentations from indigenous leaders, historians, and local ranchers, offering a unique opportunity for community dialogue and education. It will be held at the Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor’s Center each week, at 6:00 p.m.

The Premier Livestock Exhibitor Award is designed to recognize and honor 4-H members that show a dedication to the agricultural industry. Winners of this award will have demonstrated their passion, hard work, and integrity through participation in events related to their livestock projects.

The Niobrara River Basin Alliance met Thursday, August 21, 2025 at the Middle Niobrara NRD office. The following were in attendance: Pat O’Brien, Upper Niobrara White NRD General Manager; Mike Murphy, Middle Niobrara NRD General Manager; Wade Ellwange, Lower Niobrara NRD General Manager; Karl Connell, Lower Niobrara NRD Board of Director and Niobrara Council Board Member; Dennis Schueth, Upper Elkhorn NRD General Manager; Kyle Temple, Middle Niobrara NRD Water Resources Coordinator.

A Nenzel celebration was held on July 26, at Niobrara Valley Vineyards at Nenzel, NE. The day started with a 5K run that Reed Ford organized, with the proceeds going to the Sandhills Cancer Fund. There were other activities throughout the day with St. Mary’s Luck of the Draw, Country Store and BBQ, K of C Cowboy Pasture Golf followed by a dance that night with Country Rush.

There will be $2,000 in payouts at the Valentine Chamber of Commerce’s 8th annual Chaduza Cook-off ! Here’s a rundown on the time and events for this yummy event! • 8:00 a.m. - Competition begins • 10:00 a.m.

On August 19, 2025, Wendy Murphy, the Nebraska State R3 Coordinator for Pheasants Forever traveled to Lincoln to attend Governor Pillen’s signing of a proclamationdesignatingAugustas National Shooting Sports Month in Nebraska. Nationally, this monthlong shooting sports promotional event is sponsored by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), and The Firearm Industry Trade Association.

The Sand Painter Art Club is encouraging artists of all ages, any location, to show their art at the Sky High/Colorful Skies Art Show at the Valentine Public Library for the September display. There are no fees, and any medium is encouraged. Drop off your art at the library, September 2, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Contact Joan Swim 402-382-0083 for more information.

Congratulations to Valentine’s Marybelle Ward on winning the National P.E.O. STAR scholarship. This $2,500 scholarship recognizes the accomplishments of graduating high school young women planning to pursue post-secondary education.