News

VALENTINE, NE – May 8, 2026 – Cherry County Hospital (CCH) proudly recognized Christy Sprenger as the recipient of its first-ever DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, a milestone moment for the organization as it joins healthcare institutions around the world in honoring exceptional nursing care through The DAISY Foundation.

Perched quietly on a hill just north of Crookston, a weathered limestone building still stands watch over the prairie ~ silent, sturdy, and filled with stories. Time has worn its walls, prairie winds have tested its strength, and years have left their mark, yet Rock School remains. To some, it may appear to be just another forgotten country schoolhouse. But to the families whose lives passed through its doors, it represents something far greater: perseverance, education, community, and the enduring spirit of rural Nebraska.

Valentine Community Schools will once again be providing free lunches to children during the summer. There are no income requirements or registration.

With proud memories glowing across a big screen and the hum of conversation filling the gym, the Valentine FFA Chapter gathered to mark a significant milestone - its 70th annual FFA Banquet. More than an evening of recognition, the event reflected roots grounded in agricultural tradition and the promise of futures still taking shape.

There’s something special about the moment just before the music starts - the quiet hum of anticipation, bouquets clutched tightly in proud hands, and a stage waiting to come alive. On Saturday, that moment gave way to something unforgettable as Heart City Dance presented its 15th annual recital.

Valentine, Nebraska — Area residents are invited to jump‑start the summer on Saturday, May 23, by joining a community river and road cleanup in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Niobrara National Scenic River.

Jarek Erickson, son of JR Erickson, and Angie and Aaron Anderson; grandparents, Tracy and Kay Hand, and Helen Erickson was selected by Nebpreps as the Class D2 Player of the year. As a member of the Wolfpack basketball team, he helped lead the team to the Class D2 State Basketball Tournament two seasons in a row.

LINCOLN, NE ~ April 9, 2026 – The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation (NSHSF) is introducing a more connected, interactive way to explore the state with the launch of a new WanderNebraska mobile app, and a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Nebraska Game and Parks’ Trail Trek program for 2026.

John Foster, the son of Larry and Elizabeth Foster of Kansas City, has achieved the highest honor in Scouting America, the rank of Eagle Scout. Every Eagle Scout must earn at least 21 merit badges and demonstrate professional leadership skills, as well as orchestrating and completing an Eagle Project.

Registration is open for Crofton’s Dam Race set for July 25 at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area. Now in its ninth year, the race continues to blend small-town charm and new traditions, while benefiting the development of a walk-bike trail at the recreation area just north of Crofton.