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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.

LINCOLN, NE (November 24, 2025) - The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Nebraska’s leading small business advocacy organization, encourages shoppers to support small businesses on November 29, 2025.

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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.

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.

MERRIMAN, NE – Garrett Shadbolt has been on a 12-month mission. It’s redemption he seeks, and he’s given himself a chance to obtain it.

Golf recently named CapRock Ranch, of Valentine, NE as 84th best course out of 100. This was their first ranking.

Grace Wolf f of Cody, NE received the Keith Keltgen Memorial Scholarship at the recent South Dakota State University College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Scholarship and Recognition Banquet in Brookings. More than 125 scholarships totaling more than $650,000 were awarded as part of the annual celebration of student achievement.

NOVEMBER 19, 2025 — Home fires increase significantly during the holiday months, often sparked by cooking accidents, unattended candles or unsafe decorations. The American Red Cross of Nebraska urges everyone to take simple steps to stay safe while celebrating – from keeping a close eye on what’s cooking to checking holiday lights and decorations for hazards. By taking precautions now, families can help prevent tragedies and enjoy a safer, happier holiday season.