Top 10 SAM articles for 2025

As we look forward to a new year, we reflect on the stories that defined our region in 2025. Articles in this list - and the rankings - are based on Page views from summerlandadvocate.com.

1. Hometown Hero: Summerland freshman uses SkillsUSA training to save infant's life

As an eighth-grade student, Taelyn Nilson learned CPR and won a state title in Job Skills Demonstration at the Nebraska SkillsUSA Middle School Conference.

In December 2024, Nilson used those skills to save the life of an infant who was staying in her family's home.

January 15, 2025

2. Step Into Wellness: 26 Renew offers infrared sauna

Imagine 30 minutes in a warm, soothing environment that claims to deliver health benefits like easing chronic pain, reducing stress and even promoting weight loss. Thanks to 26 Renew, owned by Alexa Simons, area residents can now experience these perks by booking time in an infrared sauna located in the heart of Orchard.

January 15, 2025

3. Student's lawn care business cuts a path to FFA's top honor

Parker Napier's future is as neatly trimmed as the lawns he's been mowing since age 11. The Summerland FFA standout cut through the competition at the Nebraska State FFA Convention, earning the prestigious State Star in Agribusiness and claiming the top spot in turf and landscape management-proof that his grassroots business is growing.

April 16, 2025

4. Swimming with Confidence: Orchard Pool offers adaptive swim lessons

August Janke took a leap last week-not just off the diving board at the Orchard Swimming Pool, but into uncharted waters of courage. That moment marked more than a splash. It signaled the success of a pilot adaptive aquatics program, held June 30 to July 3-a four-day mini session designed for children with specialized learning needs.

July 9, 2025

5. From calm waters to crisis mode: Pool drill simulates real-life rescue response

Personnel at the Orchard Swimming Pool dove into action Thursday during a coordinated emergency training exercise.

After a simulated flip off the diving board, a lifeless body floated in the water. Lifeguard Preslie Robertson sounded her whistle and dove in. Co-manager Dani Janke called 911. Dylan Rotherham grabbed the backboard and sprinted to the scene. Lydia Robertson cleared the pool and joined the response.

August 6, 2025

6. The heart of the matter

Ruby Jenkins' name symbolizes love, strength, and protection-qualities she has embodied since birth. Born without pulmonary arteries entering her heart, she underwent open-heart surgery at four months old. Now, as she celebrates her third birthday on Valentine's Day, Ruby's resilience shines as brightly as the gemstone and grandmother she shares a name with.

February 12, 2025

7. Erb's Grocery builds on family business

A new chapter in Orchard's grocery store history is ready to be opened.

In January, Kyle and Samantha Erb started the transition process from Kyle's parents, Todd and Leah, who operated TJ's Market since 1982.

March 5, 2025

8. Summerland TeamWorks lays foundation for national title run

The blueprint was clear: construct a small structure and showcase carpentry, roofing, electrical, and plumbing skills-all in just two days.

For the Summerland SkillsUSA TeamWorks crew, it was a solid build from start to finish. First-year competitors Ashton Cleveland, Bennet Flenniken, Willis Mast and Alec Schindler nailed the assignment at the Nebraska SkillsUSA Leadership and Skills Championships, held April 10–12 at the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island. They walked away with gold medals and a ticket to Nationals.

April 23, 2025

9. EMT class planned in Clearwater

Organizers hope an upcoming emergency medical technician class will combat a local and statewide shortage.

Karmen Rotherham will teach the class, which consists of 110 hours of classroom instruction and 55 hours of lab practice.

July 23, 2025

10. Gold Star emblem presented to Sanders family

Chris Dierks Places a flag in a new Gold Star Mother emblem, at the grave of his great-grandmother, Mary Sanders, in St. Peter's Cemetery, on Memorial Day.

May 28, 2025