The Ainsworth Star-Journal and the Midland News of Valentine, two long-standing newspapers in Nebraska’s Sandhills region, are on the brink of closure. Owners Rod and Kathy Worrell recently announced that both papers will cease publication on December 25 if no buyers step forward. The couple, now in their late 60s, cited rising costs, declining populations, and the loss of their veteran pressman as key factors in their decision to retire after decades of chronicling local news.
Since April, the Worrells have sought new owners for the papers, but with limited success. The Star-Journal and the Midland News have served as vital sources of information for their communities, covering local sports, school events, and civic news for over a century. Ainsworth, with a population of 1,616, and Valentine, home to 2,621 residents, are key hubs in Brown and Cherry Counties. However, declining rural populations and a shift to social media advertising have diminished subscriber and advertiser bases.
Nationally, small newspapers face similar struggles. According to Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, an average of 2.5 newspapers closed weekly last year, leaving more than 211 counties without local news coverage. Nine counties in Nebraska already lack a newspaper, and the loss of the Ainsworth and Valentine papers could add to this trend of “news deserts.”
Despite these challenges, there are bright spots. Dennis DeRossett, executive director of the Nebraska Press Association, highlighted efforts to save local newspapers, including online training programs for aspiring journalists and community-backed purchases of struggling publications. Examples include the Winner Advocate in South Dakota and the Leader-Times in Genoa, Nebraska, both saved by local buyers.
For the Worrells, running these newspapers has been more than a job—it’s been a way to document their communities’ histories. From covering local sports victories to major events like the 2012 Niobrara Valley wildfires, their work has left an indelible mark. While they hope new owners will emerge to continue this legacy, time is running out. To maintain legal status and revenue from county advertising, the papers must not miss a single weekly publication.
“I’m guardedly optimistic we might be able to keep them open,” said Rod Worrell. For now, the couple looks forward to spending more time with their grandchildren and cherishing memories of a career dedicated to telling their community’s stories.
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