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.

The holiday season arrives with sparkling lights, cherished traditions, and, for many people, a surprising dose of guilt. Between abundant buffets, busy schedules, and the pressure to “keep up,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Overview The Ainsworth Schools After- School Program (ASAP) is an academic-based program that takes place every Monday through Thursday when school is in session. Designed for students in grades K-8, ASAP offers a wide range of clubs, academic programs, enrichment activities, recreation opportunities, STEAM projects, and snacks.

The Brown County Hospital Board of Trustees met for a regular meeting on Monday, November 17, in the Brown County Hospital conference room. The meeting was called to order by member, Ryan Ortner, at 4 p.m.

Clever scammers are targeting Veterans, surviving spouses and family members who receive VA benefits. They pretend to be official VA representatives and use official communication channels to demand repayment for alleged benefits overpayments.

Area athletes were recently named to the Niobrara Valley Conference All-Conference Team. These athletes are: First Team: Gracyn Painter (Ainsworth) Myley Hoffman (North Central) Mya Lewis (North Central) Second Team: Willa Flynn (Ainsworth) Audrey Kuchera (North Central) Sydney Hoffman (North Central) Kyra Tubbs (Stuart) Paityn Sheffield (Stuart) Honorable Mention Megan Jones (Ainsworth) Jaylee Good (Ainsworth) Payton Sears (Ainsworth) Ireland Buell (North Central) Paisley Hoffman (North Central) Cecelia Addison (Stuart).