Ashley Gaughan

In his workshop filled with the hum of laser cutting machines, or at times, the scent of freshly carved wood, Joseph Sharp is dedicated to turning memories into lasting keepsakes. Whether it's honoring a military hero, keeping a memory of a loved one close, or ensuring the safety of a child, his business, Sharps Laser Creations, has the tools to craft something special for everyone.

Bill Schumacher of Rosalie has given a number of foreign exchange students a unique experience—the chance to experience life in a rural American setting.

The annual West Point Craft Fair, this year featuring more than 60 vendors, is set for Sunday, Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

It can happen in an instant. On any farm, where heavy machinery, sharp tools and unpredictable livestock are part of everyday life. A slip of a blade, a fall near equipment, or any unexpected accident can lead to catastrophic injuries — especially those involving life-threatening bleeding.

Beemer residents gathered last Thursday to celebrate the unveiling of the village's new cemetery directory, a long-awaited project that has now come to fruition. Trisha Robertson, Beemer Community Club (BCC) secretary addressed the attendees, sharing the history and significance of the project.

The past came to life at Mount Hope Cemetery last Tuesday evening, as actors vividly portrayed the lives of those who are buried there. Drawing from stories written by John A. Stahl Library staff and sourced from the West Point News archives, audiences heard intriguing tales of locals in Cuming County history.

On a 5-1 vote, the West Point City Council last week voted to pursue the use of eminent domain in hopes of reaching an agreement with the West Point Fraternity of Eagles (F.O.E.) to buy property owned by the Eagles Club.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of any community and West Point is no exception. Ensuring the success of any number of events relies on volunteers – from putting on theater productions, raking residents' yards, hosting a car show, mentoring local youth, participating in highway clean ups to the volunteer rescue and fire members who help save lives – these individuals help make a community a healthy and thriving place to live.

Have you ever stepped into a job without a clue of where to begin? That was me to a degree, starting out as a reporter. Even if I didn't feel fully equipped, I recalled a phrase I had once heard someone say, “There has to be a beginning somewhere.”

Mary Lauritzen of West Point was recently honored with the prestigious Eyes on Nebraska Award, presented by the Nebraska Optometric Association (NOA) during its fall conference in Kearney this September.