Area youth could decorate their bikes and ride in the Alumni Parade for a chance to win a new bike from the Ainsworth Fire Department on Saturday, June 25th. The winners of the bikes were (front row - left to right) Kamlyn Archer - girls 3-7 age group; Gracyn Sission - girls 8-12 age group; Tilden Wright - boys 3-7 age group; and Tygan Sisson - boys 8-12 age group. Firemen pictured representing the Ainsworth Fire Department were (back row - left to right) Cash Dailey, Ben Wright, BJ Nilson and Lane Meeks.

Monday evening, June 20th, an evening storm swept through the area bringing high winds and hail. The high winds damaged at least eight pivots between Ainsworth and Johnstown north of Highway 20 along with uprooting trees, breaking off branches and damaging buildings. Hail destroyed crops along the same line. Ainsworth Airport reported winds up to 77 miles per hour.

Outlaws were wanted in Long Pine, NE on Saturday, June 18th to celebrate Long Pine Day. A Business Poker Run - draw your card at any Main Street Business took place in the morning.

Brown County Hospital held its 19th Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament on Friday June 17th. Twenty-four teams participated in the tournament with the Homestead Bank team taking top honors.

The Niobrara National Scenic River (NSR) is happy to announce additional programs for the summer! The Niobrara National Scenic River will be hosting Junior Ranger programs on Sunday mornings (excluding special event days) at Smith Falls State Park from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. On days with special events or adverse weather, the Junior Ranger program will be offered at the Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center located in Valentine, NE.

The Kansas Cross Country and Track and Field Coaches Association has announced the track and field coach of the year recipients. Burlington’s Shane Clapper is amoung those who have been honored as coaches of the year.