Heavily Modified Corrections Spending Bill Advances as Part of State Budget There are quite a few corrections-centered bills on the Nebraska Legislature’s table this year. While there are some solid ideas dealing with transparency and costs of incarceration, it appears those bills will linger in committee while senators focus on a big-ticket item in the state budget.

Wednesday, April 24th, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that he had signed a proclamation designating Nebraska as a “Second Amendment Sanctuary State.” The proclamation is symbolic, and reaffirms Nebraska’s support for the right to bear arms.

North Central District Health Department (NCDHD) has been made aware of 15 new COVID-19 cases in the district since last reporting period on April 15th: 4 - Antelope, 0 - Boyd, 1 - Brown, 0 - Cherry, 2 - Holt, 0 - Keya Paha, 7 - Knox, 1 - Pierce and 0 - Rock. NCDHD encourages district residents to continue to wear your mask in public places or where social distancing is difficult as well as practice social distancing while out in public. With recent public gatherings and school events coming up in the near future, continue to monitor for signs and symptoms for COVID-19. During this time of year many people struggle with allergies, sinus infections, and common colds. If you have any questions regarding symptoms you have developed, please call your primary care provider or the health department.

Ainsworth High School held its 2021 Junior/Senior Prom on Saturday evening, April 17th. Crowned as royalty were seniors, King Isaac Hood and Queen Josie Ganser.

The Ainsworth City Council denied a request by Craig Smith to sub-divide a residential lot in Ainsworth at their regular meeting on April 13th. The request to divide a 60’ x 150’ residential lot on Elm Street into two 60’ x 75’ lots was presented at the March council meeting and tabled for further review.

Meeting virtually and through email, the Ainsworth Art Guild made plans for the Annual Spring Art Show. The show begins April 17th and ends May 1st at the Ainsworth Public Library. Everyone is welcome to view the artwork, vote for the “People’s Choice” and sign up for art-related door prizes.